North Wiltshire Town Crier Magazine - March 2018

TownCr er FREE

NORTH WILTSHIRE

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

MARCH 2018

LOTS OF LOCAL EVENTS See Inside

Competitions

See inside for details

Gift Guides

Mother’s Day Easter

Special Features Spring Food Spring Clean

Get ready for

SPRING!

WHAT’S ON l FOOD l HEALTH & BEAUTY l TRAVEL lTheHOME & GARDEN l PETS Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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MARCH 2018

Editor’s Letter

24

Welcome to March!

on March SPRING is a time for celebration and ms we dmu gran or mum 11, it’s our mums, step . Then Day s her’ Mot for of fuss a will be making is Easter, hot on the heels of that on April 1st family. the with chocolate eggs and fun for all See our Gift Guides on page 42. enter this There are two great competitions to ts to ticke free two win to ce month - a chan tehall Whi the Pick Your Own Daffodils event at and a 24) e Garden Centre, Woodborough (pag ert Des the in ce signed copy of new book Silen (page 12). like to If you have a local event you would to us by it il appear in the next issue, just ema our do will we the deadline date below and s.

Date y Diar the in best to give it a mention Until next time ...

Annie

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

5b Wood Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0BZ Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the April 2018 issue: 7th March 2018

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 | MARCH 2018

WIN

52

PICK YO U R OW N DA F F O D ILS See p age 24

MAGAZINE SECTIONS Community News & What’s On

6-14, 16-38

Food & Drink

46-52

Health & Beauty

58-63

Pets 64-67 Gardening 68-73 Motoring

74-75

Building & Home Improvement

82-89

Index of Advertisers

90

68

Welcome!

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING & RENEWABLE REQUIREMENTS

42

WIN NED

A SIG BOOK12 e

See pag

10

Contents 6

Local Focus

News and Events from the local community

42 Gift Guides Mother's Day

Easter

48 Spring Food

We visit some North Wiltshire Food producers

48 Spring Clean

Some tips on how to de-clutter your house

52 Recipe

Bolied Fruit Cake

62 Running

Art & Science

68 Gardening Fertiliser

78 Jo Deacon

Full of the Joys of Spring

80 A Good Read The Island

Electrical Rewires, Alterations LED Lighting, Test & Inspecting, Domestic, Commercial, Industrial & Agricultural Plumbing Refurbishment, Central Heating, Hot Water & General Repairs, Wood Burners & Flue Installations 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

Tel: 01249 812850

Email: enquiries@weclimited.co.uk www.weclimited.co.uk

The Monsters of Shiverstone Cove

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U

Local Focus MARCH 2018

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

Chippenham Pancake Race 2018 The Chippenham Pancake Race 2018, organised

by Chippenham Connected in partnership with Chippenham Town Council, was a huge success this year and it really was flippin’ good fun!

With the pancakes kindly donated by Sarah-Jayne’s Café and with the superb compering skills of Chippenham FM, Chippenham High Street was brought to life by laughing, cheering, running, waddling and flipping on Tuesday afternoon to celebrate Shrove Tuesday.

30 children entered the children’s race, from age 2 to age 11, and they competed to win their heat against 5 competitors before the final to find the winner’s winner.

Joshua, age 8, raced to success to many cheers from the supporters watching on.

Some impressive pancake flipping could be seen, with Robert, age 8, scoring highest amongst the children with a superb score of 23 flips and the adults did themselves proud with the winning score of 60!

However, Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s own Wilber needed a helping hand when it came to his turn to flip…his paws were just a little too big!

Local businesses and organisations did themselves proud, with 9 teams entered including Wiltshire Air Ambulance, Hughes and Hughes Estate Agents, The Angel Hotel, Rivo Lounge, Chippenham Town Council, Chippenham Museum, The Rotary Club of Chippenham and Chippenham Street Pastors and they were joined

by Chippenham MP Michelle Donelan and her team.

With much hilarity, the teams relayed up and down Chippenham High Street flipping (and dropping) their pancakes as they went, with The Angel Hotel and Chippenham Street Pastors winning but Chippenham Street Pastors taking the victory overall.

Kathryn Crosweller of Chippenham Connected said, “This was a true community event, and it brought smiles to the faces of everyone that took part. It was the sort of thing that makes us proud to be part of this town.”

Councillor Sandie Webb, Leader of Chippenham Town Council said, “It is a great tradition to enjoy Pancake Day in the centre of Chippenham with a huge variety of people getting together for the races demonstrating the great community spirt that exists in our town.”

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Carlton Business Centre The Carlton Business Centre, in Porte Marsh Industrial Estate in Calne, offers a wide range of contemporary office space for rent.

The building has been recently modernised to provide fully serviced office space with hot-desking, professional business addresses (mailboxes) and virtual offices for businesses of all sizes and sectors.

The building is security and fire alarmed with each office being individually secured and having 24 hour access. There are kitchen facilities on both floors, al fresco seating, CCTV, two meeting rooms are available and the location benefits from a large parking area.

Sainsbury’s food donation milestone Sainsbury’s kicked off the year by celebrating a key milestone in its food donation by announcing its 1,000th donation point for customers. The retailer’s announcement means that 80% of Sainsbury’s stores now have a collection point where customers can drop off donations of canned and packaged food for charity.

Facilities include: Free super-fast fibre broadband, twice weekly cleaning, Kitchen facilities, Parking and a Meeting Room. The Carlton Business Centre team is on hand to provide help and support whenever it’s required.

Carlton Business Centre offer an easy in, easy out policy. They are currently offering office space starting at £50 per week. There is no VAT and no legal or set up costs. For more information visit www. carltonbusinesscentre.co.uk Maundrell Road, Calne, SN11 9PU Tel: 01249 816222

Quality Serviced offices in Calne from as little as £50 per week

Customers at Sainsbury’s Chippenham can donate products to support Corsham Food Bank at the dedicated food donation point, which is located at the front of the store. Products are then collected by volunteers at the charity and redistributed to people in the local area.

Val Atwill, Store Manager at Sainsbury’s Chippenham said “We’re thrilled to have reached such an impressive milestone in our food donation programme. Our customers are very generous all year round and this year, we hope to see even more food donated to help people in the local community who may be at risk of going hungry.”

Steve Drew from Corsham Food Bank said: “Having a food collection box in the Chippenham store has made a vital difference to our work in the local community by helping us to provide a balanced supply of food to those referred to us for help, and we are really grateful to Sainsbury’s customers for their generosity.”

The charity collects a variety of products including pasta, tinned goods and cereals.

As well as customer food donation points, Sainsbury’s has committed to redistributing its surplus food to charities through a network of charity partners with over 1,000 partnerships in place.

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

• • • • • • •

•

•

•

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•

•

•

Free broadband Quality Free superfast superfast fibrefibre broadband Twice weekly Cleaning Serviced Twice weekly Cleaning 2424hour access offices in hour access Security and alarmed Calne from Security and firefire alarmed Meeting room as little as Meeting room Mailboxes £50 per Mailboxes Virtual offices / hot-desking week Virtual offices / hot-desking Free superfast fibre broadband •

Tel: 01249 816222 •

Twice weekly Cleaning

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Abbey Skate For the tenth year running, the 12th century former Benedictine Abbey in Malmesbury was transformed from a working church to a skatepark, welcoming hundreds of young people over the February half term.

Since it began in 2009, Abbey Skate has become one of the premier youth events in the West Country.

Top right: Skateboarders team from left to right: Sam Vogts, Dave Reed, Chris Coombes, Brandon Thomas, Luke Cooper, Haydon Maynard Photos by Paul Stallard of www.candidpictures.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

An Introduction to Buildit Malmesbury Quality, experienced staff ensure that as a company we continue to deliver the high standards we set ourselves, with customer service at the heart of our success.

Local man Mark Pemberton is our store manager and with his team they are focused on delivering the service and products you need for all your projects large or small, advice is always on hand along with good stocks of leading brand products.

Many people may not have heard of Buildit, we as a company have been trading in the Wiltshire area for 18 months and have been trading in Gloucestershire exclusively for over 8 years, until May 2016 when we opened our third store near Malmesbury.

Buildit is a private, locally owned builder’s merchants. We pride ourselves on offering a more personal service to our customers compared to larger, national merchants. We offer a comprehensive range of products for construction, maintenance and DIY projects at competitive prices.

We offer a daily delivery service and the store is conveniently situated between the M4 and Malmesbury near Corston.

Whatever your project is, a new bathroom, or perhaps a new patio, some decorating, or a fencing repair, give Mark and the team at Buildit a call 01666 848 410 or email: malmesbury@builditonline.co.uk

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Experience • Knowledge • Competitive Pricing • Outstanding Customer Service The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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COMMUNITY NEWS

COMPETITION

WIN a copy of ‘Silence in the Desert’ A new book by local author, David Longridge Following the success of Malmesbury author David Longridge’s first novel In Youth, in Fear, in War, the eagerly anticipated follow up Silence in the Desert is set to hit book shops in April 2018.

Silence in the Desert is a psychological thriller set against the backdrop of the Second World War, which follows the lives of four young people forced conflicting Minto atad or ® allegiances incompatible with the morality of their backgrounds.

Take the plunge and raise vital funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance!

IF you’ve ever wanted to do a skydive, then Wiltshire Air Ambulance has places available.

The skydive will be taking place on Sunday 20 May 2018 at Old Sarum airfield and sponsorship raised by those taking part will help to keep the charity’s helicopter and crew flying and saving lives.

Kenresa Stratford, Fundraising Coordinator at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “We’re really excited to offer this skydive.

Participants will jump in tandem with an experienced professional skydiver from 10,000 feet and experience the dramatic scenery of Salisbury Plain.

“We held a skydive at Old Sarum airfield last June which was hugely popular and raised over £8,700 for our Airbase Appeal. Myself and some colleagues braved the 10,000 feet jump and it was truly exhilarating. You really get a sense of how beautiful Wiltshire is when you see it from above!

ADVANCE I NFORMATI

David Longridge’s travel and finance career in France and Germany enabled him to illustrate how the suspension of the moral law in wartime conflicts with the conscience of young people in those countries and the ethics of their upbringing.

“It was an experience I’ll never forget and if you’ve thought a Local ut hor skydive is something you’d like to do but beenA reluctant to, then I would say try it. The sense of achievement once you’ve completed it stays with you. It’s also extremely rewarding as the money raised through your sponsorship means you’ll be helping us to continue to keep flying and saving lives.”

Silence in t he DeSert To find out more and to register for the skydive please contact Kenresa Stratford by emailing kenresa@ wiltshireairambulance.co.uk or visit www.goskydive.com/ wiltshire-air-ambulance

DaTake Air Ambulance - Wiltshire Air vidto the LoskynforgWiltshire riJohn dgeCollins Ambulance volunteer undertaking a skydive

for Wiltshire Air Ambulance in 2015.

Silence in the Desert, along www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk with David’s previous book, In Youth, in Fear, Silence in th e Desert is in War, is published by Matador. Silence in the a psycholo set against gical thrille the backdr r op of the S Desert. PUBLISHED 28th 2018 £8.99.

ISBN FourApril young peop econd Wor le are caught ld War. 9781788034500 up on oppo

sing sides, ye t bound to on Henri’s fam e another by ily sends a so pre-war frie n from each ndship, and fulfils this tr generation to new found lo adition and m ili th ta e ry Second Wor co lle could match ge fo r ld War brea a commission in that confl ks out, Henri is into the Fren ict. faced with a ch Foreign Le David has kindly donated one signed copy of dilemma whi gion. A ch will lead Leo is set on to an advent Silence in the Desert which youjocould ining Goeri ure ng ’s new Luftwaff su ension of th win by sending yoursp name and a econtact e, but his w moral law in ar leads him time of turm of his upbrin into the secr oil raises issu ging telephone number by email to: production@ . et world of es which he Signals Inte struggles to lligence. The towncriermagazine.com by 28th April 2018. reconcile wit h his consci Bill is Sout ence and th h The Editor’s decision is final. African, a tale e eth nted young scholarship. rugby player His ultimat at the same e test comes school as H from a least enri and Leo, expected di and heads fo rection and Elisabeth’s 12 The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH r Cambridge a woman who home w2018 on an RA as M has already un ich until he training in Pa suffered terr r father beco ris. Her cruc ibly. mes a p ia

WIN A COPY OF "SILENCE IN THE DESERT"

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S

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WHAT’S ON

RAF100: A History of RAF Lyneham The REME Museum at MoD Lyneham is honouring the history of the site with a special exhibition celebrating 100 years since the formation of RAF Lyneham. With memorabilia and personal stories, this exhibition is a must see for anyone previously based at the RAF station or those in the local community and region who feel a connection to the base. The exhibition runs until June 16th 2018. For more information visit: www.rememuseum.org.uk Top left: Wing Commander Paul Hewson of Malmesbury who left RAF Lyneham in May 2000.

Top right: Cpl. Gus Turney of Calne who was in the Air Movements Squadron UK MAMS between the years of 1979 and 2001.

Above right: Sgt. Mark Lishman of Lower Compton near Calne beside his own RAF uniform. Mark was in the UK MAMS at Lyneham between 83-89 and 90-94 Left: Squadron Leader Tony Evans of Sutton Benger beside his flying suit which he has loaned to the exhibition. Tony took part in Operation Bushel in Ethiopia in 1984 - 86.

Photos by Paul Stallard of www.candidpictures.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

H EL PING YOU EV ERY ST E P OF T HE WAY

Save up to

The highest standards of service and care E Wootten & Son have been serving the local community for many years and offer local families the highest levels of customer care, professional advice and sympathetic assistance with all the practical arrangements that need to be made for a funeral.

E Wootten & Son also offer Dignity funeral plans, funeral plans were first introduced

in the UK in 1985 and to date, over 1.1 million people have purchased a funeral plan from a registered FPA provider.

Dignity Funeral Plans is the first UK organisation to be independently awarded the BSI Kitemark for customer service. The BSI Kitemark requires an organisation or department to undergo rigorous and independent assessment and witness testing to make sure it meets the relevant British and International standards.

“One in five of the funerals we conduct have already been pre-arranged and paid for.” explains Funeral Director, Jennifer Law Dip FAA, Dip FD. “People often purchase a funeral plan to

E W O O T T EN & S O N 1 North Street, Calne SN11 0HQ

£350

make sure their loved ones don’t have to make difficult decisions about their funeral arrangements. Other people purchase a Dignity Funeral Plan from us so that they can make provisions towards their funeral costs at today’s prices.

This means that in these times of financial uncertainty, their loved ones are saved from paying for the majority of the funeral.”

Clients can receive up to £350 off their Dignity Funeral Plan until the 31 March making it even more affordable to plan for the future.

Tel: 01249 812258

For further information please visit:

www.dignityfunerals.co.uk/local Part of Dignity plc. A British company

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.

• Private, homely and comfortable arranging rooms.

• Quiet and private Chapel of Rest.

• Fully equipped purpose built mortuary facilities.

• Private parking for convenience and discretion.

1 North Street Calne SN11 0HQ 01249 812258

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

47 Market Place Chippenham SN15 3HU 01249 709048

E. WOOTTEN & SON WILL ALSO ASSIST YOU WITH: • 24HRS A DAY SUPPORT • MEMORIALS • PRE-PAYMENT FUNERALS PLANS. The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

15

WHAT’S ON

Chippenham Museum Saturday Exhibition Tours of Creative Wiltshire

Work begins on New Museum Entrance

3 & 17 March, 1.00pm Chippenham Museum, 9 – 10 Market Place, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3HF Free, just drop in Join the curator to discover some of the fascinating stories behind the objects in Chippenham Museum’s Creative Wiltshire exhibition. These fortnightly Saturday tours are free to enjoy with no booking necessary.

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 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.

Left to right: Chippenham Town Council Chief Executive Mark Smith, Leader of the Council Councillor Sandie Webb, Wilkins Contracts Manager Craig Hicks and Chippenham Museum Curator Melissa Barnett.

Chippenham Museum is pleased to announce the start of building works for its new entrance and retail space. Over the next two months, what was once an exhibition gallery will be transformed into a larger and brighter visitor entrance. This will enable the museum to offer a greater selection of gifts and souvenirs including items produced by local craftspeople.

The museum will remain open to visitors whilst the work is taking place, including during the half term and Easter holidays, but will close for one week commencing Monday 19 March.

Leader of the Council Sandie Webb said “This is a major project for Chippenham Town Council. It will enhance Chippenham’s retail offer, increase the museum’s visibility and encourage more people to visit the town.”

The new entrance will open out onto the Market Place and enhance the building’s Georgian frontage. The existing entrance will remain as a level entry to the museum.

Chippenham Museum Curator Melissa Barnett said “Alongside this work the majority of the museum’s displays are currently being refreshed with more items on display than ever before, making now the perfect time to discover or re-visit Chippenham Museum.”

This project follows the recent completion of a new temporary exhibition gallery at the museum. Current exhibition Creative Wiltshire is open until 17 March and features the work of many influential artists who moved to North Wiltshire during the 20th century.

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.

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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www.bowood.org

Eggstravaganza Friday 30th March to Monday 2nd April 11am to 5pm

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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Bowood Spring & Summer Classic Car & Motorcycle Shows New for 2018, we are delighted to announce two new events at Bowood House and Gardens: the Bowood Spring Classic Car & Motorcycle Show on Sunday 6th May 2018, and the Bowood Summer Classic Car & Motorcycle Show on Sunday 12th August 2018.

Offering a spectacular day of motoring heritage ideal for enthusiasts, day trippers and families, the classic vehicle shows will feature an exciting display of vintage, classic and modern vehicles all located beside Bowood lake. The display will also include a variety of club stands, sports and convertibles, kit, custom and replica and American vehicles.

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Both events will feature a full vehicle concours overseen by leading commentator and vehicle expert Les Clayton who brings over 19 years’ experience as an MC and commentator at classic vehicle events. Awards will be presented for a range of categories and culminating in the Pride of Ownership, Club of the Show and Car of the Show awards. Each participating vehicle exhibitor will also receive a complementary commemorative plaque.

Admission to the event is priced at the standard Bowood admission price and also includes full access to the Bowood grounds, gardens, and inside Bowood House More information at: www.classicshows.org

See us at the Wiltshire Hotel Golf and Leisure Club, Royal Wootton Bassett Wedding Fair on Sunday March 18th 18

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

The perfect sleep environment To celebrate National Bed Month in March we consider the best way to get a good night's sleep.

Comfortable temperature (16-18C) Fresh air circulating but no draughts.

Dark - try using blackout blinds or an eye mask.

A large bed - Buy the largest you can accommodate A quality mattress - try out lots and buy the best you can afford.

Ban technology - The blue light emitted by screens is hazardous to good quality sleep.

Quiet - you can buy soft earplugs if noise is a problem though some people sleep better with white noise in the background.

Routine - A regular bedtime routine is an important cue to help us fall asleep. Think about the bath, book, bed routine we often establish for our children. You can use essential oils, a good book and a warm milky drink.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol and screen use too close to bedtime, and never go to bed on an argument!

by Louise Addison

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DW Adv 73x106mm.qxp_Layout 1 16/02/2018 16:34 Page 1

WHAT’S ON

Spring into Easter in Chippenham

HISTORIC AVIATION MEDALS & MILITARIA STAMPS & COINS

Valuation Day - 14 March

10am-4pm

Spring is in the air and Chippenham’s town centre is the perfect place to celebrate Easter with your friends and family. This special day full of FREE activities and family fun on Saturday 31st March 10am-4pm is brought to you in partnership by Chippenham Connected and Chippenham Town Council with support from Emery Gate Shopping Centre.

Hop on over to Emery Gate to meet the Easter Bunny himself between 10am-4pm and receive a free Easter Egg and take a photo! (While stocks last.)

RECENT SALE HIGHLIGHTS: 17th-Century Cuirassier Helmet £3,600 Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader's Pilot’s Flying Logbook £23,000 1914 DCM Group £4,500 Isandhlwana Casualty Medal £6,600 Tail Fin of Heinz Schnaufer’s Messerschmitt Bf110 G9+EF £90,000 To consign items or for further information, please contact Henry Meadows henry@dominicwinter.co.uk 01285 860006

www.dominicwinter.co.uk

An Easter Farm featuring lambs, miniature donkey, giant rabbit and chicks will take place in Borough Parade from 11am-3pm.

The Market Place will be brimming with Easter activities from 11am including characters, face painting, live music and dance, a picnic zone and traditional family games with Farmer Barley - be sure to wear your best Easter costumes as he will be on the look out for the best dressed!

Join Borough Parade for their mini soft play area for children, craft station including rabbit mask making, flower pot decorating and balloon modeling 11-3pm.

Kathryn Crosweller of Chippenham Connected said: “We’re excited about our first major weekend event of the year. There will be lots to see and do in Chippenham on 31st March, and we look forward to seeing the town full of people enjoying what Chippenham has to offer.”

From 3:30pm the Mayor of Chippenham will join Farmer Barley to announce the winners of the Fancy Dress and Easter Bonnet Competitions and present prizes.

Councillor Sandie Webb, Leader of Chippenham Town Council said; “Chippenham Town Council are delighted to be working with Chippenham BID to put on this fun family event with lots of free activities to take part in.”

And there’s more! Head along to Chippenham Town Council before 3pm to guess the number of eggs in the Easter display and be in with a chance of winning some yummy prizes!

There’s something for all the family in Chippenham this Easter. Come along and enjoy the free activities and entertainment, get involved, do some shopping and support your local town centre.

For more information please visit www.chippenhamconnected.com/whats-on Telephone (01249) 665929 email: marketing@chippenhambid.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

11-3pm

Borough Parade Rabbit Craft Station Balloon modelling Mini soft play Easter farm

12-3pm

The Town Hall Easter Bonnet Making

12-3pm

The Library STORYTELLING

12-4pm

The Market Place 3pm

Live Music & Fancy Dress Dance Stage Competition Picnic Table Zone Tea & Cake Stand Easter Characters Easter Bonnet Face Painting Competition

3.30pm

10-4pm

Emery Gate Shopping Centre Meet the Easter Bunny Free Egg*

*one per child while stocks last

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

21

WHAT’S ON

Malmesbury Abbey Music Society presents

She’Koyokh

Saturday 17th March, 7:30pm Malmesbury Abbey She’Koyokh is a virtuosic, versatile and prize-winning band comprising seven expert musicians playing klezmer and traditional music from the Balkans and Turkey.

A Little Love Cabaret

by Spiltmilk Dance

Rural Arts Wiltshire with Grittleton Village Hall presents this fun-filled cabaret on Saturday 14 April 2018 at 8.00pm (doors open 7.30pm).

‘A scrapbook of real-life love stories collected from across the country…ultimate heart throbs, full-on obsessions and awkward mixed up emotions combine in a heart-warming…cabaret reminding us of the lengths we will go to for love…’

With four globally acclaimed albums, She’Koyokh has performed at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and festivals in Germany, Hungary, Cyprus, the Canary Islands, Norway and Poland.

They have also played WOMAD, Glastonbury, London’s Southbank Centre, Aldeburgh’s Snape Proms and live sessions on BBC Radio.

Tickets £18 (£5 students) mamsmusic.co.uk Abbey bookshop, 01666 824924

Tickets: Adults £8, Concessions £7, Children (under 16) £5, Family (2 adults/2 children £21) from Jan on 01249 782798. dandjjeffcoate@btinternet.co.uk Age recommendation 12+. Bring your own refreshments

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.

Are you interested in running?

Looking to get fitter or faster or just meet like-minded people?

22 The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018 ou interested in running?

Want to find out more?

Visit our website www.calnesmartt.co.uk, check out our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/calnesmartt/ or email: sec@calnesmartt.co.uk.

We look forward to meeting you.

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23

WHAT’S ON

Whitehall Garden Centre WIN TWO TICKETS TO PICK YOUR OWN DAFFODILS Whitehall Garden Centre at Woodborough has kindly donated one pair of tickets to Pick Your Own Daffodils which you could win by sending your name and a contact telephone number by email to: production@ towncriermagazine.com by 16th March 2018.

The Editor’s decision is final.

Top left: Chloe Campbell of Devizes.

Town Crier.pdf

1

06/02/2018 Left:

09:26 John Mullings of Whitehall Garden Centre

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Pick Your Own Daffodils

CM

MY

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Woodborough Garden Centre, Nursery Farm, Woodborough, SN9 5PF

CMY

K

Mon - Sat 9:00am - 5:30pm, Sun 10:30am - 4:30pm * until 15th April - subject to availability

www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk 24

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Kitchen Makeover UPHOLSTERY BY CHARLOTTE Restoration and Re-covering of Antique and Contemporary Furniture “Taking your tired and old chairs and giving them a new lease of life!”

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

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

26

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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

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

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

‘Person centred care sees residents as equal partners in planning, developing and assessing care to make sure it is the most appropriate for their needs. It involves putting residents and their families at the heart of all decisions.’ Norma & Chad Doveton (Owners of Hill House) The recently opened new wing has large living and dining areas overlooking the Dauntsey Vale.

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

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

care home

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

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

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

KINGSTON HOUSE Residential Care Home For the Older Person

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WE OFFER: • Competitive pay rates • Ongoing Support • Member Advantages

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Prestige Nursing + Care

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 | MARCH 2018

27

Come and explore St Margaret’s Prep School Your child will learn in a safe, nurturing environment and spend each day in modern, stimulating and purpose-built teaching spaces.

30 acres of campus and offsite facilities mean there’s space to explore, learn, play, let off steam, relax, think and grow.

Teaching throughout the school is tailored to meet the needs of the individual child. Children are encouraged to reflect and evaluate their own learning and with support identify their next steps. Specialist teachers offer a wide range of experiences and as a result, our teaching delivers truly personalised learning for each child.

An extensive range of mobile technology enhances learning across the curriculum.

Of course you want your children to be happy, alongside giving them the best possible start in life. Your child will join a school with real spirit and energy, which lives each day to the full. We purposefully pack excitement and learning experiences into every moment.

St Margaret’s is a place where friendships and special memories are created and where a love of learning is established.

We are an independent day school for boys and girls aged from 3-11 based in Calne - please come to visit us on our Open Morning.

May 2017 ISI Inspection

‘EXCELLENT’ across the board Open Morning 15th March 2018 Independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-11 Tel: 01249 857220 / StMargaretsPrep StMargaretsPrep.org.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

arning Rub-A-Dub Le always fun at Pre-school Rub-A-Dub! is

Our highly motivated and caring team provide a high standard of care in a secure and fun environment. We provide – • A small team with a personal touch • Free flow play • Large outdoor area • Open 5 days a week • 30 funded hours accepted • 2-5 year olds, term time • Forest learning • Specialist session for children starting school the following year We are already accepting applications for starting in September 2018 so get in touch soon!

Arrange a visit to come and see us.

Lansdowne Village Hall, Petty Lane, Derry Hill SN11 9QY rubadubpreschoolenquiries@gmail.com

For more information please call Liz on

0844 8000219

www.tumbletots.com/swindon

Telephone: 07894 073865

Leave a message and someone will call you back www.rubadubpreschool.com Registered Charity 1030979

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

29

WHAT’S ON

Calne Rotary 3rd Annual Classic Car Run Sunday 13th May 2018

Chippenham Rotary 2018 Golf Classic Thursday 26th April 2018 Manor House Golf Club, Castle Combe

Between 8am and 9.30am on Sunday 13th May one hundred Classic Cars will gather in Calne Leisure Centre Car park for a bacon butty provided by Calne Lions before setting off for a fascinating 65 mile run through the beautiful Wiltshire countryside.

Stopping for refreshments at Wadswick Country Store and Café near Corsham and then onto Devizes to finish with a wonderful lunch provided by the Marden Belles WI in the fantastic grounds of Devizes School.

With further support on the day being provided by Rotarians and a great team of volunteers, the event will be a true community effort. The car run also features VIP Teddy Bears and dogs in some of the cars.

Shotgun start: Teams of 4: Texas Scramble over 18 holes.

Entry: £70 per player; incl. bacon roll & coffee, use of driving range, golf (incl. buggy), charity auction and two-course dinner.

Half the proceeds will go to Julia’s House Children’s Hospice and half to other local charities. Liz Froud, Community Fundraiser at Julia’s House said ‘We are delighted to be a chosen charity by Calne Rotarians.

Julia’s House provides practical and emotional support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting condition and earlier this year we opened the first children’s hospice in Wiltshire. We rely on local community support to fund our hospice, so we are very grateful for all support. We would like to thank everyone involved and wish them a safe journey’.

Closing date for entries Thursday 19th April For further information and an entry form, please contact Bob Nation on 01249 463789 or via email nation.

294@talktalk.net. www.chippenhamrotary.org

The event is still looking for more drivers and Kate Tompkins of the Rotary Club of Calne said “If you have a pre-1990 classic car come and join us for a great day out and to raise money for some great causes”

Bring clients, colleagues and friends to enjoy a great day of golf and hospitality at Wil tshire’s number one ranked golf course. Proceeds from the event will help to support the deserving local charity “Waste Not Want Not” www.waste-not-wantnot.org.uk

For further details and entry forms please visit: www.calnerotary.co.uk or contact Kate by email calnerotaryclassicrun@gmail.com

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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Frenchic chalk paint - painted furniture Candles, Interiors and Gifts

Home decor, interiors and gifts

GiftMonthly vouchers available Frenchic chalk paint - painted furniture Painting Workshops

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

31

WHAT’S ON

Learn to dance with

Quicksteps Dance Ballroom, Latin American & Argentine Tango New Beginners classes in Calne, Chippenham & Corsham.

Get your dancing shoes on!

Highly-qualified, professional teacher, with many years experience teaching adults & children.

We make learning to dance fun & easy !

Tuesdays Calne Town Hall Wednesdays Corsham Town Hall Thursdays Ivy lane School, Chippenham

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The only requirements: comfortable shoes and a sense of humour!

For information on other classes please contact:

01249 653408 / 07587 008673 Claire33.mgn@gmail.com

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Start Dancing!

EASTER SATURDAY MARCH 31st 2018

At Larkhill Racecourse, near Amesbury, SP4 8AT GATES OPEN 11AM FIRST RACE 1PM • • • • • • • • •

Seven Steeplechases Pony racing Parade of Hounds Licensed Bar Food from the Larkhill Nosebag Shops galore Jockey coaching Children’s entertainments Bookmakers

New for 2018 – Trackside Reserved Parking from £40!

www.avonvaleraces.com

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

An evening with Martin Kemp Monday 26th March | 8pm | £20 Judge on BBC1’s recent Let It Shine series, Martin Kemp is best known for being one of the founding members of Spandau Ballet, Steve Owen in EastEnders and appearing in the film The Krays with his brother Gary. Join us for an intimate evening where Martin talks about his career and answers questions from the audience.

I’m Still Standing: The Elton John Story Friday 6th April | 7:30pm | £18 Journey through Elton’s illustrious, unparalleled career with an amazing live band recreating the authentic sound of a live Elton concert. The 8 piece band are stunning to watch and play the tracks with great energy and all 100% live. Finished off with beautiful projections, replica costumes and a baby grand to boot, this is an electrifying evening of classic hits not to be missed.

Georgie Fame Monday 16th April | 7:30pm | £22.50 With his much loved blend of Jazz and Rhythm & Blues, Georgie Fame has consistently worked in the highest musical circles and has become a true icon of the British music scene. In this very special and intimate evening, audiences will be treated to Georgie’s hits, alongside music from the Artists that have influenced him – all interspersed with personal stories and anecdotes from his incredible career.

Feast of Fiddles Monday 23rd April | 7:30pm | £21 Feast of Fiddles embarks on its 25th annual spring tour in 2018 and will be returning to the Neeld Community and Arts Centre after a sell-out show in 2017! Featuring members of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and Battlefield Band, they are live music entertainment like no other which is guaranteed to be enjoyed by event the most doubting of friends dragged along!

Martin Hughes-Games and Iolo Williams: Wildlife Roadtrip Tuesday 1st May | 7:30pm | £16.50 Natural history broadcasters and Springwatch presenters Martin Hughes-Games and Iolo Williams team up to perform this informative and amusing wildlife show packed with fascinating facts and fun.

Their exciting journey is filled with real life stories and takes the audience behind the scenes of the wonderful world of wildlife and TV presenting.

Tel: 01249 446699 Book online at www.neeld.co.uk

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Well, if you have made a serious time commitment to make the photography work as a business, then you have quite possibly made a “trading loss”. If you make a trading loss, you can set it against your other income – including your employment income – which could then result in a refund of tax. However, if you only made a minimal time commitment, then it will be seen as receiving a bit of income from a hobby. In this case HMRC would probably not allow the claim for loss relief. This is a very grey area with no clearly defined criteria but the question of time commitment is crucial.

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

33

WHAT’S ON

The Euston Road School Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. Runs until 14 April 2018

The Euston Road School exhibition bring together paintings by the artist Basil Rooke, displayed alongside work by Lawrence Gowing and Duncan Grant, from Swindon’s own collection.

The Euston Road School artists’ group, named after their premises in Euston Road, was active between 1937-39, with its members favouring realism instead of the contemporary trend of Avant Garde abstraction.

The artists, staff & students, used their modernist approach to make naturalistic imagery of everyday life, which they hoped would make art more accessible to the general public again. Their left-leaning political views were at odds with those of the Avant Garde artists who sought to isolate themselves and art from the people.

The school closed in 1939 with the outbreak of WWII, as many of the members were called to the armed forces.

There were, however, exhibitions of the group’s work in 1942 and 1948. By 1949, William Coldstream, one of the Duncan Grant, 1885-1978 Seated Model c.1915-16

group’s founding members had left to work at The Slade School of Art. He had, however, created a group identity that would continue to influence, and be used to represent the new trend of naturalism in British art.

This exhibition runs along Paper – Drawings, prints and works on paper which features some fascinating examples of modern art by modern and contemporary artists and demonstrates the huge range of effects that can be created using paper and imagination.

Works featured include those by Allen Jones, Nicholas Monro, Michael Ayrton, Basil Beattie and Katherine Jones. These are displayed alongside prints by Joe Tilson, Eduardo Paolozzi and Cecil Collins, and drawings by George Clausen, Gwen John and Michael Craig-Martin.

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Bath Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BA www.swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk E: smag@swindon.gov.uk Tel: 01793 466556

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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35

WHAT’S ON

Marden House Concerts 2018 PROGRAMME The Fletcher Quartet

Sunday 25th March 2018 at 3.00pm This exciting quartet is composed of young musicians from the Birmingham Conservatoire. Violinist Yu-Mien has a rapidly growing reputation as a chamber and orchestral musician. She has appeared in the Royal Festival Hall, Royal Albert Hall and a number of BBC TV Broadcasts. Jeffrey Armstrong - violinist is a winner of the University of South Africa National Scholarship and has performed with all the major orchestras in South Africa. Yue Yu - born in China is now studying viola at the Birmingham Conservatoire. She is a keen chamber music player as well as appearing as a soloist. She is the only violinist in the country to be awarded a working opportunity with the Sinfonia Cymru. Xiang Fan - studied Cello at the Central Conservatory in Beijing.

Their programme will include works by Beethoven and Mendelssohn.

Marden House, Calne

Tickets: £12 Adults, £1 Full-time Students Available from: Calne Information Centre, www.marlboroughboxoffice.co.uk or at the door

www.mardenhouseconcert.co.uk

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Scheme requires more volunteers to help maintain the transport and caring services it provides for those in need who live in the towns and surrounding villages. Volunteers are only required to give their time as and when they are available but every little helps, and you can be sure that it will be appreciated by those in the community who rely on this service.

For further information please telephone our co-ordinator on

07715 587604

36

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Diary Dates MARCH 2018 CALNE FLOWER CLUB Thursday 8th March, 7.30pm. £5 Marden House, Calne “Out of the Attic” with Margaret Walker and her lovely flower arrangements. Everyone iwelcome.

THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT March 8th 2018 The Battle of Bedwyn and the rise of Wessex.

Speaker: Nick Baxter A battle was fought between Aescwin of Wessex and Wulfhere of Mercia at Crofton near Great Bedwyn in the year 675 AD. It was the start a bloody war between the rival kingdoms, lasting for 150 years. At Ellendune (Wroughton, near Swindon) in the year 823, king Ecberht defeated the Mercian king Beornwulf: Within a few years Ecberht became king of both Wessex and Mercia. www.facebook.com/pg/ HistoricalWoottonBassett THE WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE Thursday 8 March 2018 Bowood Hotel and Spa Resort.

Tickets cost just £37 per person which includes lunch and refreshments throughout the day.

Further details and tickets at www. theenterprisenetwork.co.uk/wib LAMBING IN LACKHAM 10th & 11th March and 17th & 18th March 2018 10am - 5pm - Last Entry 4pm Visit shop.wiltshire.ac.uk to book tickets. Don't forget your wellies.

MALMESBURY AND DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB Monday 12th March 7.30pm An Illustrated Talk by Paul Green on “Plants of the Season” at Charlton

Village Hall. Affiliated to the Royal Horticultural Society Hon. Secretary. Mrs. Eleanor D Church, Redlands, West End, Brinkworth, Chippenham Tel. 01666 510490 MAMS – She’Koyokh Saturday 17th March 7.30pm Malmesbury Abbey Tickets £18 (students£5) available from the Abbey Bookshop 01666 824924 CALNE ROTARY CLUB 10KM FUN RUN Bowood Park is on Sunday 18th March 2018.

Organised by Calne Rotary Club, the charity fun run boasts some fantastic scenery around the beautiful Bowood estate. This friendly Fun Run and Walk caters for a wide range of participants, including serious club runners, joggers, keep-fit enthusiasts and walkers who would like to enjoy a few hours in the fresh air in picturesque Bowood Park. Lord Lansdowne will start the race and Mayor of Calne, Tony Trotman will be presenting the trophies.

For more information, and entry form go to www.calnerotary.org. uk and click Bowood Fun Run on the events page of the new Calne Rotary Club website.

THE CRICKLADE BAND Sunday 18 March Mad March Hare Spring Show – at the Town Hall, Cricklade at 7.30pm.

A concert of new season music you’ll know and love, also with the up-and-coming musicians of BandAcademy doing their bit too. Ttickets are just £5, available from Cricklade’s Council Office or McFarlane Sales & Lettings in the High Street.

Saturday 14 April Spring Table-Top Sale, at the Town Hall, Cricklade, 11am to 1pm.

If you're a Table-Top seller, get in quick and call 01793 750516 to book your table, at just £6.

Setting-up is from 10am. The band itself will have our famous eat-in or takeaway home-made cake array, tea, coffee, games of chance and a raffle or two.

Tony Warren

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www.kitcheninstaller.biz The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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WHAT’S ON

Calne Evangelical Church Sunday Service times: 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

Movies@Malmesbury MARCH 2018 SCHEDULE

Monday 5th 8pm Three Billboards out of

Ebbing Missouri Tuesday 6th 7pm “Carmen” Live from the Royal

Opera House * Friday 9th 2pm Darkest Hour Friday 9th 5:30pm Coco Friday 9th 8pm The Greatest Showman Monday 19th 2pm The Greatest Showman Monday 19th 8pm All the Money in the World Tuesday 20th 2pm Exhibition on Screen: Van Gogh Encore * Tuesday 20th 7pm “Lady Windermere’s Fan”

Live Theatre ** Friday 23rd 2pm All the Money in the World Friday 23rd 5:30pm Early Man Friday 23rd 8pm The Post Tickets: 2pm and 5.30pm £5 & £4, 8pm £6 Except * “Carmen” & “Van Gogh” £10 & ** “Lady Windermere’s Fan” £12 Tickets from: www.cinema.malmesbury.gov.uk Town Hall or on the Door.

Facebook: MoviesatMalmesbury

Tel: 01666 822143

MALMESBURY POETRY EVENT Malmesbury’s regular Poetry Slam Event with local poets Tone Rudall & Andrew Carnegie 21st March/18th April/16th May/20th June 7.30pm – 9.30pm The Old Bell, Malmesbury www.oldbellhotel.co.uk CALNE TOWN HALL MOVIOLA Showing on March 21st The Mountain Between Us (12a) Starring Kate Winslet and Idris Elba. Two strangers are stranded after a plane crash and must forge a connection after realising that help is not coming, They must cross hundreds of miles of snow bound wilderness in order to survive. Doors open at 7.00pm,programme starts at 7.30. Tickets £6.00 from the information Centre or on the door.

Refreshments available.

MOVIOLA@ GRITTLETON VILLAGE HALL Wednesday March 21st BREATHE [12A] Based on a true story, when Robin (Andrew Garfield) is struck down by polio at the age of 28, he is confined to a hospital bed and given only a few months to live. With the help of his wife’s twin brothers (both played

by Tom Hollander) and the groundbreaking ideas of inventor Teddy Hall (Hugh Bonneville), Robin and his wife Diana (Claire Foy) dare to escape the hospital.

Tickets £6 adults from Lesley on 01249 783157 or email l_palmer@btinternet.com [underscore between l and p] Doors open 7pm, programme starts at 7.30pm Future date for your 2018 diary Wednesdays April 25th Murder on the Orient Express LOCKSIDE WI - PEWSHAM During our January meeting we were given a talk on Lacock by David Sage and Bob Bray. It was a fascinating insight into a beautiful village that has changed little over the years and which we are

fortunate to have on our doorstep.

27 March - our Annual Meeting followed by a talk on Denman, the WI College. Visitors are always welcome, 10.00am to noon, Pewsham Community Centre, Lodge Road, Chippenham, SN15 3SY. For more information please contact Truda on 01249 445922 or email locksidewi@talktalk.net RAF MALMESBURY & PARISHES Saturday 31st March 2018 at the Town Hall, pre-dinner drinks from 6.30pm, 3 course dinner at 7.20pm. Royal Air Force Centenary 1918-2018.

An invite to all current & exserving RAF from Malmesbury & surrounding Parishes. For ticket information and any other enquiries please email Matt on malmesburyraf100@gmail.com or call 07976 407139 ANNUAL EASTER EGG AND BUNNY HUNT Easter Saturday, 31st March 2018, 2-4pm in Castlefields Park, Calne.

Family orienteering trail and mini bunny hunt. Ice creams.

Refreshments courtesy of Calne Scouts. 50p per child. All children must be accompanies by an adult.

CRAFTS & MORE MARKET From 10am-1pm at the Town Hall March 10th, May 19th, September 29th and November 10th Contact Julie Exton 07595 725263 PURTON HORTICULTURAL SHOW In aid of the Royal British Legion.

We would like to invite local groups and organisations, for children and the elderly to take part in our 2018 Community Potato Challenge. The weigh in will take place on Saturday 18th August at Purton Village Hall. Pots & Seed Potatoes will be distributed in March. For an invitation or further information please contact Lorna RobinsonWardle 01793 778013 or 3rwardles@gmail.com

Please send your What’s On and Events to www.towncriermagazine.com 38

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Calne Tandoori Take Away & Restaurant

Calne Appliance

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.

7 William Street, Calne, SN11 9BB

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

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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TRAVEL

Spectacular Canada From the stunning coastal scenery of Atlantic Canada to the Prairie Provinces with their wheat-filled fields and from the stunning Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, Canada is extravagant in its diversity.

Each area is unique and has its own charm. Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, exciting cosmopolitan cities, remote lodges, ranch stays, rail journeys and cruises - Canada has it all!

Alberta & British Columbia are the best known regions of Canada mainly due to the Rocky Mountains, Banff and Jasper National Parks and Vancouver, one of the most magnificent cities in the world.

Quebec & Ontario - Perfect for stand-alone visits but these two provinces also link ideally for a self-drive, rail or escorted tour holiday.

Highlights include the historic city of Quebec and the spectacular Niagara Falls.

Atlantic Canada - Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland & Labrador each offer their own charms, attractions and coastal adventures including great whale watching excursions.

2 The Causeway, Chippenham, Wilts, SN15 3BT 01249 447488 www.pebblestravel.co.uk 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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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Established 1982 - Florists for 35 years

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Start a new hobby in the Spring!

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

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 Glass Vases | Paperweights & Ornaments Purses & Wallets | Soft Toys & Teddy Bears Gifts for Baby & Wedding Ladies & Mens Toiletries | Mugs

Telephone: 01249 813380 Bazaar Gifts & Cards

SHIRLEY’S

FLORISTS Flowers for all occasions

DON’T FORGET MOTHER’S DAY! Sunday 11th March Order your flowers now Tel: 01249 817089

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

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calnehalfpricetaxi.com The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

41

Mother’s Day

11th March

Here in Wiltshire, there are plenty of great gift ideas and things to do to make sure Mum has an extra special day.

PREVIOUS HOMEWARES If you’re looking for something a little bit different as a gift, Previous Homewares in Corsham’s High Street is the place to visit. Here you’ll find various vintage and quirky items as well as jewellery and homeware. The team specialise in mixing contemporary items with pieces from various eras, to create a stylish blend of old and new so if your mum likes to receive something unique, you can’t go wrong here. Owner Nicola White says: “We sell a wide range of unusual, even unique, keenly priced goodies, including cashmere, toiletries, accessories, jewellery, homewares and vintage. We also have a great range of cards and wrap - perfect for Mother’s Day!” www.previoushomewares.co.uk

& CRUISE THE KENNET

AVON CANAL

hire up the glorious Wilts If you fancy soaking ther’s Mo a for arf Devizes Wh countryside, head to l. There na Ca on Av & et nn Ke Day cruise along the at 11, leaving the wharf are two trips on March es lud inc ise cru r ou e two-h 11.30am and 2pm. Th e ag rm Fu administrator Jen a cream tea. Booking y the d an s trip lar very popu says: “They’re always ng cruise early. It’s a nice, relaxi ry ve t ou l sel ays alw as ed vid pro a cream tea along the canal with they as rly ea ok bo to le peop well. I would advise and s ult ad prices are £10 for do sell out fast.” The is ing ok -bo Pre .

15 ed five to et £7.50 for children ag nn Ke the 721279, drop into essential. Call 01380 it vis or arf Wh es op at Deviz & Avon Canal Trust sh .uk org st. tru kv.ka

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

LUXURY AT WHATLEY MANOR If you’re in the mood to treat your mother to a truly luxurious experience, look no further than Whatley Manor at Easton Grey, near Malmesbury. The hotel is hosting a special Mother’s Day lunch for £45 a head, including a three-course a la carte menu. The lunch will be held in the recently-refurbished Grey’s Brasseries, where music will be performed by Gilmore n Jaz (CORR). If afternoon tea is more your thing, it doesn’t get better than this. For £29 per person, you can enjoy finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, a selection of pastries and a tea or coffee. If you really want to splash out you can indulge in a glass of Champagne Deutz (total cost £40 per person) or a Bellini (£39.50). Marketing manager Eloise Gordon says the afternoon teas are always extremely popular for Mother’s Day. The hotel is also planning a special Mother’s Day half-day spa experience with afternoon tea included, which will be available from March 5 to 18. To find out more and for bookings, visit www.whatleymanor.com or call 01666 822888.

SPIRIT FASHION Beautiful Danish blouse £64.99 Spirit Fashion, Devizes 01380 729933 www.spiritfashion.co.uk

BLUESTONE GALLERY

PINK BOX BOUTIQUE At Pink Box Boutique in Devizes, the staff are brimming with ideas for Mother’s Day. Owner Kerry Gover suggests picking a few small items and presenting them in a beautiful gift box.

She says: “We’ve got plenty on offer for mums. We do little hampers in pink - or whatever colour you want - from £4.95, plus the cost of the contents.

We’ve got natural skincare from Bath House, a small independent business, with everything from lip balms all the way up to beautiful bath soaks.

That’s from £5. “We do clean burning candles – we don’t do paraffin wax, we use beeswax and soya wax, so it’s all natural, and they start at £2.25. “We also do locally produced chocolate from Coco Chemistry, so you can get a nice chocolate slab from £5.50. “And we have bamboo socks, which are naturally anti-bacterial, keep your skin nice and let your feet breathe and they’re £4.95. “One of the things we’re quite famous for is our artisan food range so we have lovely jams and chutneys so if you know your mum likes them you can buy a couple of those to pop in a box.” With colourful purses, retro aprons and eye-catching jewellery among the other items on offer, you’d be hard pushed to come away empty-handed. You can also feel good about spending your money, because the shop has a strong ethical focus. “We like to work with smaller, artisan businesses, so they’re all people we know and we like our products to be clean, so free from artificial colours, preservatives and nasty chemicals. Everything we’ve got here, we’ve chosen and we’re proud of the people we work with – they’ve all got lovely stories behind them.” Visit the shop in The Ginnel in Devizes or browse online at www.pinkboxboutique.co.uk

The Bluestone Gallery in Old Swan Yard, Devizes, is a veritable treasure trove of delights awaiting the gift hunter. Established in May 2000, it is considered one of the best craft galleries in the South West. Run by potter Guy Perkins, it features handmade jewellery from dozens of British makers and a variety of ceramics, glass and bronze.

He says: “Would you rather wear a piece of jewellery made in a foreign factory, or something imagined, designed, and handmade locally? One is mass produced, and the other is a unique piece that means so much more and will give far more delight. The same goes for the mug you have your coffee out of, the vase you put flowers in, and of course the picture you hang on your wall. “In the Bluestone Gallery we celebrate British art and craft, not just because of all that wonderful creativity, but because that handmade item will appeal to you day in and day out – so it ends up very good value. The gallery has the work of over 50 jewellers in all price ranges, plus a huge range of scarves, as well as ceramics, handblown glass, hand-turned wood and paintings and prints.” Prices start from as little as £10.

Pop along to the shop or browse the items available at www.bluestonegallery.com

PRIVATE WALLED GARDEN TOURS Looking for the perfect gift for Mother’s Day? Book onto a tour around Lord and Lady Lansdowne’s Private Walled Garden and gain an intimate insight into the history and beauty of the award winning gardens at Bowood. The tour will take you around the beautiful formal borders, the picking garden, glass houses and the kitchen garden that provides fresh fruit and vegetables for the Bowood House Restaurant. Wednesday 4th April and Friday 20th April. Must be pre-booked in advance. £34.00 per person. To book please call 01249 810961 or email b.seymour@bowood.org

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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Easter Gifts

1st April

Check out some of our great ideas below to make the whole family has a very happy Easter.

LEARN TO MAKE YOUR OWN CHOCOLATE GIFTS Why not surprise the family with a selection of chocolate treats you have made yourself? At Lucknam Park Hotel, in Colerne, you can join head pastry chef Matthew Peters who will teach you to create scrumptious handmade truffles and tempered chocolate shells. The half-day course includes tea or coffee on arrival, pastries, lunch, a recipe folder, all the ingredients and use of a chef’s uniform! It costs £95 and runs from 9.30am on Tuesday, March 20. To book call 01225 742777 or go to www.lucknampark.co.uk

CHAMPING Want to treat the family to something way out of the ordinary? Then why not take them champing over the Easter holiday? Yes, you heard right. Champing – church camping - is new to Wiltshire and would give you and Mum the chance to spend the night somewhere truly unique.

The stunning medieval St Andrew’s Church in Rollestone will be opening its doors to guests thanks to the Churches Conservation Trust, which invented champing in a bid to raise money to protect churches at risk. This tiny church was owned for centuries by the religious crusading order of the Knights Hospitaller. It overlooks the River Till and is a hop and a skip from Stonehenge. Camp beds are set up inside the church, with a cosy sitting area, complete with rugs and cushions. All guests need to bring is bedding and maybe a bottle of wine! The church is for the exclusive use of each group to make the experience truly special. Peter Aiers, chief executive for The Churches Conservation Trust, says: “This is a unique opportunity to sleep somewhere truly extraordinary, an experience like no other.” Rates are from £49 per person and there are group discounts for eight or more. Dogs are welcome too! Bookings can be made at www.champing.co.uk

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ELEMENTS FOR LIFE The award-winning Elements for Life in Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon, make chocolate with a difference. Their raw chocolate products are free from dairy, gluten, soya and refined sugars. There is nothing artificial in them and they are suitable for vegans, diabetics, lactose intolerance and coeliacs. Chocolate brownies, hot chocolate and taster packs for the real enthusiast are just some of the treats on offer.

Owners Dan and Paula Knowlson were inspired by their own personal food and health journeys to create the fabulous, guilt-free chocolate. Watch out for their short-run limited edition Easter version of the raw chocolate kit for £17. It includes premium quality Peruvian Criollo raw cacao powder and butter, Low GI, diabetic friendly Sweet Freedom and reusable silicone chocolate moulds and recipes. If that’s made your mouth water, visit www.elementsforlife.co.uk

LICK THE SPOON

GLAMOROSE If your sweet tooth veers towards cake rather than chocolate, be sure to head along to GlamoRose in High Street in Swindon’s Old Town. Founded five years ago by baker Jessie Dennis, GlamoRose provides a beautiful selection of stunning cakes to suit all occasions. They’re highly decorated style is thanks to Jessie’s background in model making, which she studied at university. Cupcakes come in all sorts of themes from spring flowers to chicks and lambs – perfect for Easter! Pop in and say hello or visit www.glamorosecakes.co.uk

If more traditional chocolate is your guilty pleasure, Lick The Spoon needs to be on your shopping list.

Based in Corsham, the award-winning company was founded by husband and wife team Diana and Matthew Short – and they’re all geared up for Easter 2018.

Master chocolatier Diana has produced beautiful handpainted designs and delicious flavour combinations such as the Cherry Blossom milk chocolate Easter Egg, inspired by spring. It comes with a hand-painted cherry blossom design and is made with single origin 45% cacao milk chocolate and contains Lick The Spoon’s spring chocolates collection. It is also available in dark chocolate, made with 75% cacao house blend Madagascan Raisetrade dark chocolate, roasted and conched on the island of Madagascar. Luxury doesn’t come cheap at £85 but this is chocolate like you’ve never tasted before. Other items especially created for this Easter include the Bronde Easter egg, with a unique caramelised flavour, hand-painted with a paisley design and packed with soft salted caramel pearl chocolates for £24.95. Diana says: “We’re really pleased with our 2018 collection and we hope you like it too.” For the full range, visit www.lickthespoon.co.uk

SPRING BULB CONTAINERS LACOCK CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT Give the kids a chance to let off some steam at Lacock Abbey as they follow the clues and search the beautiful grounds for Easter eggs. Youngsters are challenged to figure out the Bunny’s clues and work out which animals have laid the eggs. All their hard work will be rewarded with a tasty Cadbury chocolate treat. It costs £2 per trail on top of the normal admission charges. The event is suitable for children of all ages – just head along to the visitor reception to get started. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-talbotmuseum-and-village for more information.

Thursday 29th March, 11am to 3.30pm at Bowood House & Gardens. Spring Bulb Containers – Masterclass with Rachel Wilson. Rachel will demonstrate how to create a beautiful spring bulb container, which can be given as a gift this Easter or to decorate your home. After a two course lunch in the Stables Restaurant, you will be ready to put what you have learnt into practice and take your spring bulb container home at the end of the day. £75.00 per person, includes refreshments during the day, a two course lunch, with all equipment and materials provided.

Following the workshop you are welcome to enjoy the House & Gardens at leisure. To book, call Rachel on 07866 866670 or email info@rachelwilsoneventflowers.com The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

45

FOOD & DRINK

The Shelburne Restaurant Contemporary all day dining at Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort

O

Surf & Turf, Butternut & Sage Risotto, Pappardelle with Beef and Red Wine Ragu and Catch of the Day.

The talented Bowood chefs have created a selection of delicious meals to enjoy whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for an informal lunch with friends or family, or an intimate romantic dinner.

Popular lunch dishes include such classics as Brixham Battered Fish & Chips, Chicken Caesar Salad and a variety of Sharing Platters. Dinner dishes include

Afternoon Tea can be served either in the hotel’s cosy Library or the Shelburne Bar & Restaurant, the choice is yours. You’ll enjoy home-made cakes, scones and patisserie together with delicious finger sandwiches; served with your choice of tea or coffee. The fire will be lit in The Library when it’s chilly while in the warmer weather French windows open out to a wide terrace for outdoor eating and drinking along the whole expanse of the Shelburne Restaurant, Bar and Library. Looking out onto the expansive landscape, as you dine, you may even spot passing deer!

PEN seven days a week to non-residents as well as guests, Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort’s elegant and stylish Shelburne Restaurant is now serving a relaxed and contemporary all day dining menu from brunch and lunch, to afternoon tea and dinner.

Afternoon Tea in The Library

There are a host of special occasions to celebrate at Bowood including a Mother’s Day Lunch on Sunday 11th March. Or why not enjoy a delicious lunch on Easter Sunday with Easter Eggs for the children or a traditional Sunday Lunch for Father’s Day on Sunday 17th June.

Reservations are now being taken and pre-booking is recommended.

Bowood have also recently introduced a number of popular evening Wine Dinners in the Shelburne Restaurant. Diners will enjoy three courses of delicious food plus a course of French cheese, each course perfectly paired with wines from around the world and you’ll enjoy friendly conversation with a guest speaker.

For further details and to make a reservation in The Shelburne Restaurant, please contact Hotel Reception on 01249 822 228, or email resort@bowood.org. Sample menus can be found online at www.bowood.org/dining

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THE SHELBURNE RESTAURANT at Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort

NOW OPEN FOR ALL DAY DINING Delicious contemporary dishes available all day from Brunch through to Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Dinner.

TO BOOK A TABLE CALL 01249 822 228 OR VISIT BOWOOD.ORG/DINING The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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FOOD & DRINK

Spring Food Wiltshire is ripe with producers making the best of the fantastic local ingredients on offer here. Here are just some of the local people creating gorgeous goodies to make your mouth water.

FOODALICIOUS Seasonality is important to Solance Fleur and her partner Craig, who run Foodalicious in Church Street, Calne, and a café at Coate Water country park in Swindon.

Their independent ‘good food shop’, which they opened in August last year, stocks whole foods, cheeses, breads and specialist products.

The couple pride themselves on using local suppliers and seasonal, organic products wherever possible.

Solace says she notices a shift in customers’ buying habits once the weather gets warmer.

WILTSHIRE CHILLI FARM

“The main thing we notice is people are looking for lighter foods after the heaviness of Christmas. Sales of cheeses tend to go a bit quieter and people are looking more for fresh peas and mint, lamb to go with the seasons, and they start to look forward to all the picnic things. So as the weather gets nicer, we sell fresh pies and fresh deli items as people might be sitting in the garden or going out for the day.

Based near Melksham, the farm is run by a small group whose aim is to create sauces and seasonings to put fire in the belly of adventurous diners.

“People will come in and say, ‘we’re off to Bowood for the day’ and load up with picnic pies, fresh bread, cheese and patés, some olives and off they go for the day. Last year Easter was gorgeous – let’s hope it’s the same this year!”

To see what spring has to offer here visit www.foodalicious.co.uk.

If the spring weather isn’t hot enough for you, you can always turn up the temperature with products from Wiltshire Chilli Farm.

There are thousands of varieties of chilli peppers and the fine folk at the chilli farm are experimenting with different combinations to create unique flavours.

The farm cares for tens of thousands of plants, with heat levels ranging from mild to military grade – and spring is one of the busiest times of year.

Martin Bond, who is in charge of marketing and sauce production, says: “There’s quite a lot going on at this time of year. We’re busy planting the young plants into the ground as soon as we’re confident the last of the frost has come and gone.

“We starting to get into a busier market season as well – it’s much quieter post-Christmas, people don’t want to spend so much. Once we get into later March that’s when the shows begin again and we start to travel further afield.

“Early spring we’re replenishing our stocks after the Christmas period, which is our busiest time for sales. It’s a whole new beginning, gearing up for the summer to come.”

As well as growing chillis, the team produce a variety of jams, sauces and salts and wherever possible, they use local ingredients to complement the flavours of the peppers.

Visit www.justchillies.co.uk for more information.

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TRACKLEMENTS If you’re looking for something delicious to go with that spring lamb, Tracklements could have the answer.

Based in Easton Grey, near Malmesbury, the family-run firm makes award-winning condiments and boasts more than 60 products in its range, from a tangy cucumber and sweet pepper relish to British beer mustard, made with local Wiltshire beer, to apple and cider brandy sauce, guaranteed to liven up your roast pork or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Marketing manager Liz Cuff says: “People always eat with the seasons, not just in terms of vegetables and fruit, but the way in which we eat, in wanting warming hot pots in the winter and salads in the summer.

“As we head into spring we start to see people eating more things like roast lamb and roast beef, thinking about Easter, family occasions and getting together.

“We launch three special editions each year, and one of those always launches in the spring, and this spring it’s our hot mustard ketchup, which will be in the shops around mid-March.

“It’s amazing with steaks or you can use it as a marinade on sausages and if you have any left over in your cupboard come the summer, it’s ideal for barbecues.”

Tracklements, headed by Guy Tullberg, began in 1970 when Guy’s father, William found a recipe for wholegrain mustard in a 17th century diary by John Evelyn and decided to give it a go.

To this day, the mustard is grown by a local farmer just down the road from Tracklements.

Photos by Paul Stallard of www.candidpictures.co.uk

But what about that spring lamb?

“We do an amazing rosemary jelly which you can melt over your vegetables when you’re having roast lamb,” says Liz. “We also do a traditional mint sauce – there’s always a place for the classics.

“None of Tracklements’ products is newfangled – you won’t find kumquats and stuff – it’s all traditional British condiments which have been forgotten over time. We’ve just brought them back.”

Tracklements supplies its goods to more than 20 countries around the world and its condiments can be found in shops around the county. They can also be ordered online at www.tracklements.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

49

FOOD & DRINK

BRINKWORTH DAIRY ‘Seasonal’ is a buzz word at Brinkworth Dairy, home to a pedigree Friesian herd which produces the milk for an array of award-winning cheeses.

Ceri Cryer is the fifth generation of her family to have farmed at Hill End Farm, which has been going since 1910. She loves spring.

“The first thing I get excited about, because our cows are free range, is that we are coming to the spring turn-out of the cows,” she says.

“They can’t be put on the grass in winter because it’s too wet, they have to be on concrete or straw.

In spring you can start letting them out. People think of cows as big lumbering creatures but they kick for joy and they’re just so happy to be out on the grass again.

“The noise they make when they go out after milking is incredible – the noise of the grass being ripped up by the cows’ tongues. It’s a scrunching noise. It’s a magical thing about spring.”

Ceri also believes seasonal eating is important for a sustainable, healthy and vibrant local economy.

“We’ve a good relationship with a local orchard and we provide them with our honey bees to pollenate their crop and they give us fruit for our yoghurts.

“I think seasonality is exciting too,” she adds.

“For instance, come the first of November I can’t wait for mince pies - but my husband bought five packs after Christmas and they’re still in the cupboard. I don’t want them now.

“At the moment we can’t get gooseberries because they’re not in season but customers are already asking about them. Seasonality keeps us excited about food.”

The dairy now produces five cheeses, including two blues - the Royal Bassett and the Brinkworth Blue – as well as the Wiltshire Loaf and a creamy garlic and pepper cheese.

It also produces cream and butter and - perfect once the spring weather starts to warm up - ice cream in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and caramel.

For more information and to order, visit www.brinkworthdairy.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Photos by Paul Stallard of www.candidpictures.co.uk

Ceri started making cheese in 2005 when she revived the Wiltshire Loaf, which was named Best Territorial Cheese at the British Cheese Awards.

ALLINGTON FARM SHOP Another family-run, award-winning business looking forward to spring is Allington Farm Shop, near Chippenham.

For three generations, the family has been farming at Allington Bar Farm, where they produce cereal crops, potatoes and grass and rear traditional British breeds of cattle, pigs and sheep using extensive farming methods.

Naomi Reynolds, who runs the farm shop, says: “Spring is an exciting time of year at Allington - we have new life arriving on the farm with new lambs and calves being born and we have lots of new ideas and products arriving in the farm shop.

“Look out for our new sausage flavours in the butchery, lots of new products on our shop shelves, delicious hot cross buns fresh from the bakery and hand-made local chocolates ready for Mother’s Day and Easter.”

The farm shop has something to suit every palate, from sweets and chocolates to locally distilled gins and fruit liqueurs to wedding cakes made entirely from cheese.

The in-house butchers offer a wide range of meats and cuts and use traditional methods, carefully hanging the meat to ensure maximum flavour.

Very popular with locals is the café serving up homemade treats made with quality, fresh ingredients direct from the farm. For more information, visit www.allingtonfarmshop.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 Easter Orders now being taken

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

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

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

51

RECIPE

Boiled Fruit Cake Fruit cakes don't have to be tricky – this one is simple. Use a teacup for measuring.

Ingredients 1 cup of water butter 225g / 8oz unsalted gar su wn bro ft so 1 cup of like peel, use n't do u yo (if el pe ½ cup ied apricots) dr t chopped ready-to-ea 1 ½ cups raisins 1 ½ cups sultanas cherries ¼ cup chopped glace ice sp d 1 tsp mixe 2 cups plain flour carbonate of soda) 1 tsp baking soda (bi 2 eggs

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

METHOD Place the first eight ingredients into a large saucepan and bring it to the boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 20 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Heat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4.

Line a deep 20cm/8inch circular cake tin with greaseproof paper.

Mix the beaten eggs well into the fruit mix. It's important that the mixture has cooled because if it's too warm the eggs will cook! Then sieve the flour and baking soda into the mixture and mix well.

Pour into the cake tin and bake for 1- 1 ½ hours until cooked through (when a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean). If the cake is browning too quickly reduce the temperature a little. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for fifteen minutes, then turn out on to a rack. The cake keeps really well if it's stored in an airtight tin.

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53

HOME

Spring Clean Spring-cleaning is the traditional way to dust away the cobwebs of winter and get set for summer. In recent years, the trend has been to go a step further and declutter your home, getting rid of all those unworn clothes and neglected items. Here are some suggestions for de-cluttering, downsizing or decorating using local talent.

SELF-STORAGE Ian Powell, of self-storage firms All Boxed in Chippenham and Calne Self Store, says: “Research in the self-storage industry shows people are unaware what it can be used for. It can be useful for anyone, from a small business storing stock to decluttering the house, to storage for students while they are on holiday.

“A lot of people imagine you have to tie up for so long however that’s not the case with us. Our minimum contract is one week. You have 24-hour, seven day a week access. It’s really simple - you come and go as you please, there’s CCTV and you can do it on the spot – you can do it online, you can come in and book one straight away. You can book anything from a small cupboard size up to a single garage size.

“It can be used for anything - when the kids come back from university and you’ve got nowhere to put their trunk or they’re taking up the garage with all their stuff. A lot of people’s homes are full of their kids’ stuff because they’ve gone off travelling.

“If you’re at home and think ‘I could do with some extra space’ or you’re clearing out the loft, perhaps it’s time to think of self-storage.”

All Boxed and Self Store offers an online space calculator to work out your requirements. Storage starts at £16 a week (plus VAT) for a 25 sq ft unit, to a 20ft long container for £40 per week (plus VAT).

Ian says: “We have increased our self-storage to 146 internal units, 400 internal long-term storage crates and 52 external containers.

“With our busy lives, creating extra space can be essential. Why not take advantage of self-storage to declutter the home or office and just drop in when you would like to use those golf clubs, lawn mowers or vinyl LP collections.”

Simply visit www.allboxed.co.uk or www.calneselfstore.co.uk.

HEAVY LIFTING If you’re planning to take advantage of the brighter days to renovate your home, you may find you don’t know what to do with your belongings in the interim.

Ian also runs Britannia Quickmove in Calne, a business which can help solve those problems.

“If you are renovating your home and you need to clear a few rooms, we can come along with the wooden containers and the truck and your stuff can be loaded straight into the containers. We then bring it to our place and store it for you and when the renovation has finished we will deliver your items back to your home.

“People look at hiring a van but you might pay £60 a day to do that and take up your own time – we can go in with the containers ready to do it all for you.

The next time you see your stuff is when the house is refurbished.”

Britannia is the UK’s largest moving group and has operated across the UK for more than 30 years.

Anyone interested can even book a smartphone survey via the website to assess their needs.

Visit www.britanniaquickmove.co.uk

Britannia Quickmove 54

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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55

HOME

DON’T WANT TO THROW IT AWAY? If you are decluttering or downsizing your home, it may not just be a case of getting rid of all that ‘junk’.

Tim Weeks is an auctioneer and director of Wessex Auction Rooms, located just off J17 of the M4, and a familiar face to many from BBC1’s day-time antiques and collectibles show Bargain Hunt. He says one person’s rubbish could well be another’s treasure.

“You need to open your mind to stop thinking things are rubbish. We’re located on the same road as a recycling centre and we get people pull in and say, ‘I just saw you here as I was driving to the tip – do you want to have a look in the back of my car first?’. I’ve found thousands and thousands of pounds in those cars which were moments away from the tip.

“My advice when you’re decluttering or downsizing is just because it’s ‘nothing’ to you now, it doesn’t mean it’s not ‘something’ to someone else. You need to think, ‘how can I monetise this?’ because the likelihood is you probably can.”

So what kind of things should we be looking out for?

“I’ve had unwanted toys, which are play-worn – batter, bruised and broken,” says Tim. “I’ve seen a box of about 100 models and people think they’re broken, they’re useless - and I sold that box for £1,200.

“Just because it was Granny’s porcelain collection and you hate it, it may turn out to be a collection of Dresden – who knows?

“Something may look appalling in one house, however in the next house, it’s a perfect match.

“Furniture styles and tastes are always changing – we’ve been selling Ercol tables for £1,600 in the past month and people were taking those to the tip five years ago.”

If you think you have some hidden treasure, you can pop along to the auction rooms without making an appointment. Valuers are on hand to offer free noobligation advice, or you can request a home visit via the website at www.wessexauctionrooms.co.uk.

Tim Weeks 56

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Digger & Mojo

PAINTING or DECORATING You know what happens, you’ve created extra space, you’ve done one room and suddenly everything else looks tired and dated or a bit grubby?

Simply decorating can re-energise and brighten up a home. One company which may be able to inspire you is Digger & Mojo in Woodborough, near Pewsey.

The company has a showroom at Nursery Farm at Woodborough Garden Centre for an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage and contemporary furniture.

If you have an old beloved piece which needs a bit of TLC, take it along and the team will give you a quote for repairs or reupholstering at their workshop. For more information visit www.diggerandmojo.com According to Ideal Homes, bold, rich colours, dark woods such as walnut and metallic highlights are among the key trends for 2018.

Perfect Rooms

Perfect Rooms in Gastard, near Corsham, can do the whole job for you working with you to create the look you want. The team makes bespoke curtains and blinds in their own workroom and can source carpets, wallpaper, lighting and furniture.

Started by Sue Coleman in 1992, Perfect Rooms offers an initial free consultation where a member of the team will visit you at home to discuss you needs.

After that meeting, they are able to bring a wide range of books of fabric, wallpaper, carpet and lighting so you can see the possibilities within the space that you’re revamping.

To arrange a home visit call 01249 716445 or use the form at www.perfectrooms.co.uk.

NEW KITCHEN AND BATHROOM? If revamping your home rather than decluttering it is more your style, now is the perfect time of year to remodel tired-looking rooms, especially those which add real value such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Home Inspirations boasts a collection of stunning collection of kitchens and bathrooms at its showroom in Devizes.

With 20 years’ experience in design and installation, the firm can design, renovate or install bespoke new furnishings to suit your exact requirements.

Visit the website at www.homeinspirationsltd.co.uk and treat yourself to a whole new room.

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

57

HEALTH & BEAUTY

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Do You Know What To Eat?

N

UTRITIONIST Helen Adams has published her first book to help those with allergies, food intolerances and sensitivities to make healthy food choices.

“I Don’t Know What to Eat? – the Definitive Guide to Food Allergies, Intolerances and Sensitivities” has just been published in paperback and e-book.

Helen said: “I wrote the book because I like to recommend more resources for my clients to help them develop good eating habits and I just couldn’t find something suitable - so I wrote it myself.

“There are so many myths around foods, allergies and intolerances and I wanted to shed some light on various things which I’ve come across during my time as a nutritionist. One of the big ones is that people can take food tests and it comes up with as many as 40 foods where there is a reaction – so they cut out all of those foods. It’s not healthy to exclude that number of foods from your diet in one go.

“Often people don’t take the time to heal their gut so problems keep on recurring. The book shares information to help with making better choices.

“My top tip if you have that kind of test is to cut out the two main culprits – wheat and dairy – exclude them first. Increase your vegetables – remember ten vegetable portions and two fruit are ideal.”

The book has tools to help readers monitor their food intake – as with food intolerance it can take up to three days for a reaction to occur.

Helen said: “How many of us can remember what we ate three days ago instantly? We have to really think about it. The tracker helps you start to make links between symptoms such as headaches, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea with particular foods. It also helps if you are re-introducing foods so you can start to see connections between foods and symptoms.”

Helen, who runs Oakmead Clinic in Chippenham, does not shy away from controversial issues in her first book. She challenges some traditional thinking around food.

“Many GPs say food intolerances don’t exist,” she said.

“I’m telling you they do.”

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

“I also talk a lot about milk. I drink very little milk in my own diet because I don’t think it’s good for you. In normal every day milk there is a chemical which is an opioid – it works on your brain. People can get a craving for milk, so it’s addictive.

“If you buy A2 milk that comes from a particular type of cow which doesn’t produce that chemical – it’s not addictive. You can sometimes find the milk in supermarkets but it’s not mainstream. In the book I talk about my frank views on milk and dairy.”

The book starts with Helen’s personal story around her career in nutrition – and what ultimately led to her retraining to become a nutritionist herself.

“I’ve had 11 surgical operations and had a very busy corporate job involving international travel managing teams around the world. I then had a family and my first child had food issues since birth.

“Aged ten, Tom had chronic fatigue syndrome and nothing seemed to help. He was off sugar, gluten, yeast and dairy and there was no ‘free-from’ aisle at that time.

It was very distressing for us all. Imagine as a mother thinking every day “how am I going to feed this child, I know he’s sick and ill, I’m denying him foods the rest of us are eating and I don’t know what to do?”.

Helen eventually met a nutritionist who suggested eating red peppers might be helpful for Tom and they quickly became his superfood.

“Things started to change. As Tom’s body began to heal, many other problems just drifted away. Today he eats anything except gluten and he still eats red peppers. He’s now at university, plays table tennis, has normal energy levels and all because of red peppers and finding out how food can help. Food is medicine.”

Helen’s book can be ordered from Amazon online or via Helen’s website. Anyone interested in talking to Helen about possible food intolerance or sensitivity can book a 30-minute free discovery consultation– www.oakmeadclinic.co.uk or email helen@oakmeadclinic.co.uk

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

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Gabriela Slater, founder of NuReflexology, a reflexology practice based in Chippenham and Marlborough is raising money for the Royal United Hospital (RUH). She is going to take part the in the Walk of Life event, a 10 mile walk along the Kennet and Avon canal on the 12th of May 2018.

“It’s so important to give back to the community and this year I am planning to raise money for the Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care (NICU) at RUH. In the past I have fundraised for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance and last year I walked 26 miles at night in London for Cancer Research” said Gabriela.

The Walk of Life was created in memory of Venessa Kyte, who passed away from cancer in 2007. Since then the event grows every year and hundreds of people walk the canal towpath to support patients and families cared for by the Royal United Hospital. One of the departments that the money is raised for is The Dyson Centre of Neonatal Care.

It provides care to 1 in 10 babies that are born too small or too sick; it can care for around 300 babies each year.

“I decided to fundraise for this cause as I work with so many pregnant clients in my reflexology practice. Some of them had to use the service of the Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care and their experience of the care and help was fantastic. “ Gabriela believes in giving back to the community she will be offering reflexology sessions to her clients between March and May and from the proceeds will make a donation to the Royal United Hospital NICU. Gabriela is practicing reflexology in Chippenham and Marlborough. www.nureflexology.co.uk

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RUNNING & FITNESS COACH

Running is an Art and a Science A

by Verity Wright, www.runverity.com

will no longer be able to convert lactate back into energy and expel the waste products. This point is commonly referred to as your lactate threshold. The lactic acid then floods into system, muscle power is diminished and you begin to slow down (I refer to this as the bear jumping on you as it feels as though you can’t move!) Symptoms may include a burning feeling in your muscles, including cramp, feeling nauseous, weak and exhausted.

It's your body's way to tell you to stop what you're doing.

S a coach I am constantly telling my runners to slow down and they look at me in a puzzled sort of way. I say “Anyone, and I mean anyone, can run the first mile of a race at a fast pace, we can all boast that we were on for a sub 30min 5k, 60min 10k, 2-hour half or 4-hour marathon in that first mile but it's how you finish the last mile that counts”.

Getting the pacing right for any race is an art and a science and it can take many races to perfect it. There is a fine line between running a PB (Personal Best) success or a PW (Personal Worst) disaster and sometimes this fine line can be the difference between whether you hang your trainers up for good or whether you dust yourself down and put it down to experience enabling you to try again.

Sometimes we can put too much pressure on ourselves on the lead up to a big event. It could be your first parkrun or your first marathon but getting caught up in the excitement and atmosphere as you wait on the start line can cause you to run a race just a little bit faster than norm. This change in the energy system that our body isn’t used to can sometimes result in disaster.

Ultimately, lactic acid is one of the largest contributors to why you slow down as the race goes on and what makes the race hard work.

The idea is, then, that if you run at a slightly slower than usual pace then you can hold this threshold for as long as possible as you prevent waste products from building up and causing the exhaustion.

The aim is to get to the last quarter of the race with enough energy to kick those last miles and finish strong.

Try running without a watch so that you can feel your pace, run a little bit faster between lamp posts so that you learn where the difference is between feeling comfortable and uncomfortable. Remember running is a journey; an art and a science, a bit like a recipe, see what works, what doesn't, you can take a bit of training out or add a bit more in until you find what works for you and that is part of the fun.

When you exercise, your body uses oxygen to break down glucose for energy and a by-product of this process is lactate. During easy running, your body converts and recycles this lactic acid back into energy Verity Wright is an England Athletics Qualified Coach and efficiently expels the waste products. Therefore, in Running Fitness and runs a the production of lactate will remain relatively Running & Fitness successful Coach Athletics Coaching constant while running at an easy aerobic (talking) business in the South of England. pace, which doesn’t require a huge demand for energy.

How to Breathe Properly She competes as an endurance However, if you set off too quickly in any run and athlete in events from 10k to 42k Verity Wright, www.runverity.com continue to run faster you demand Bymore energy from over country, roads, fells and your body and the production of lactic willquestions slowly I am askedmountains.

One ofacid the first from new runners If youis want to know how toto breathe properly If you are one of the increase. At some point if you continue run too fastwhilst running. more, you can many people who have this problem, don’t worry it canvisit be her website the production of lactic acid will soar and fixed quiteyour easily.body www.runverity.com The most common cause of being out of breath when

62

running, which in some cases can lead to serious pain and/or The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018 panic, is that you could be running too fast too soon.

make your run more enjoyable so that you want to do i again. And if you see anyone you know whilst you are on you walking break, and to be honest this is when we usually se

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PETS

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Tick Tick Tick Dr Emma Bailey BVSc MRCVS

www.georgevetgroup.co.uk The George Veterinary Hospital, Malmesbury 01666 823165 The George Veterinary Group, Royal Wootton Bassett 01793 852458 As we leave winter behind us and the weather starts to warm up ticks become more of an issue for us and our pets. Here is all you need to know to keep your pets protected.

What are Ticks?

Ticks are small, eight-legged creepy crawlies with a round white-ish body and are commonly found in grassland and woodland, but can also be seen in your garden if you live in an area with lots of wildlife. They’re are most active between March and October and are most commonly seen in warm wet weather. Sitting at the top of grass stalks ticks wait for you or your pet to brush past and then attach themselves. They bite and then feed on blood almost tripling in size; once they are full they will then drop off.

Why are ticks an issue?

Ticks have very sharp mouthparts that can cause inflammation around the area of the bite.

They can also act as ‘vectors’ which means they can carry microorganisms and spread disease between animals and humans when they feeding. In the UK these include Lymes disease, Ehrlichia and Babesia Lymes Disease: This is an inflammatory disease caused by a bacteria found in their saliva. The clinical signs in your pet manifest as a distinctive bulls-eye circular rash around the area of the bite, lameness and fever. In humans the symptoms are extreme tiredness, muscle pain and weakness, joint pain, headaches and the bull eyes rash. However it is important to know that you won’t always see a rash.

Ehrlichia: This is a bacterial infection of the white blood cells. In dogs the signs include fever, reduced appetite, weight loss, stiffness and prolonged bleeding. This is rare in the UK and is most commonly seen in pets that have travelled abroad; however, we are increasingly seeing it in animals with no history of travelling.

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DO’s & DON’TS OF TICK REMOVAL

*DO* Remove as soon as you notice it *DO* Remove gently, ensuring to remove the mouthparts *DO* Contact us if your worried – we can demonstrate how

to remove a tick *DO* Keep your pet’s flea & tick treatment up to date *DON’T* Use Vaseline to deprive tick of oxygen *DON’T* Burn or put alcohol on it *DON’T* Try and remove anything if you are unsure about

whether or not it’s actually a tick Babesia: This is a tick-borne disease that infects the red blood cells. Clinical signs include loss of appetite, fever, anaemia, weakness and brown discoloured urine. It is rare in the UK but like Ehrlichia, can be seen in pets that have travelled abroad – in particular Europe, Africa and Asia.

In rare cases we can see outbreaks in pets with no travel history.

How do I remove a tick?

To reduce the risk of infection it is best to remove the tick as soon as possible. It is important that you remove the entire tick including its mouthparts as otherwise, if this is left behind, it can cause inflammation and infection. You must also remove it without squeezing the tick’s body.

The best way to do this is by using a tick hook as it safely and effectively removes the tick every time and is easy to use – these can be purchased from any of our branches.

Simply slide the hook around the tick, keeping it level with the skin, and gentle twist anti-clockwise. Once loose, pull the hook away and dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet. Avoid methods of removal such as burning or covering in Vaseline or alcohol as this stresses the tick and can cause it to regurgitate its meal back into the host – increasing risk of infection.

How do I prevent ticks?

There are many products on the market such as spot-ons and tablets that diffuse the anti-parasitic treatment into the fatty layer of your pet’s skin and will cause the tick to detach itself but the tick will still have to bite for this to be effective. If your pet is particularly prone to ticks there are also anti-parasitic collars available that both repel and kill ticks – it’s worth discussing this option with your vet.

Keep up to date with any flea and tick treatment and this is essential if you are travelling with your pet as tick-borne diseases are often more common in other countries.

If you have any questions please feel free to pop into one of our local branches and one of our team will be happy to advise you further.

CJ ST

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A mostly nocturnal bird, the Tawny Owl is distinctive by their call “twit twoo” and in the UK is the most common woodland owl (although they are absent from Ireland). They fly quickly and sadly other species ‘gang up’ on roosting Tawnies who are usually located on a branch close A mostly nocturn to the tree Tawny Owl is dist trunk or in acall “twit twoo their hole in the UK is the most tree itself. woodland owl (alth These owls are absent from can be seen They fly quickly all year round other species ‘ga although roosting Tawnies the youngusually located on disperseclose from to the tree t their breeding hole in the tree it grounds in owls can be see autumn. round although t

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grounds in au

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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PETS

Guide Dog Puppy Walkers Needed Could you make a difference to people living with sight loss and help train a puppy?

We are looking for volunteer Puppy Walkers who can look after a puppy in their own home for a year in and around the Chippenham, Royal Wootton Bassett & Marlborough areas.

Puppy walking is a crucial volunteering role which prepares guide dog puppies for their working life by familiarising them with different environments including the home, towns and public transport.

Volunteer Puppy Walkers provide the full-time care and education of a puppy from seven weeks of age until they are between 12 and 14 months old.

Longleat joins rescue bid for one of world’s rarest spiders

Puppy Walking volunteers meet regularly with a supervisor where they look at the progress of the puppy. There are also requirements and procedures that need to be followed. After completing their time with their Puppy Walkers, our puppies move on to a training school where they begin their formal guide dog training.

It’s thought that only around 4,000 Desertas wolf spiders survive in the wild within a small valley on the uninhabited Desertas Grande island, part of an archipelago off the south east coast of Madeira.

Volunteering is also a great way to meet new people, gain skills, helps build confidence and happiness levels and adds a positive feel good factor to your life. It can give you new challenges and experiences whilst having fun!

A total of 52 young spiders arrived at Longleat in December.

The plan is to raise the spiderlings to adulthood and then establish a satellite breeding population with batches being released back into the wild to boost native numbers.

If you would like to find out more about any of our volunteering opportunities, please call our Southampton office on 0845 372 7428 or email Hazel on hazel.kelly@guidedogs.org.uk.

Longleat has joined an international rescue programme to try and save a Critically Endangered species of wolf spider.

Longleat is one of seven collections, including Bristol Zoo, which is working with the Portuguese government on the conservation programme.

Keeper James Gotts, who is overseeing the spider project, said: “As well as being one of the rarest wolf spider species, Desertas wolf spiders are also among the largest with a legspan of up to 13cms.

“Historically there have been no native mammals on the island so the spiders are effectively one of the top predators.

“However, the recent expansion of an invasive grass species into the valley the spiders live in has prevented the spiders from being able to live in their normal rocky environment, putting them increasingly under threat. Since 2005 the spiders’ range has declined abruptly.

“As well as setting up our own breeding colony we hope the new spider laboratory in our Animal Adventure area will aid with research on this little known species and also raise awareness of their plight,” he added.

The spiders are being looked after in a carefully-controlled environment which mimics conditions in the wild and staff are even monitoring temperatures on the island.

To apply to be a Puppy Walker, please visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/supportus/ volunteering/what-can-i-do/puppy-walkers 66

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

“The plan is for one of our keepers to travel out to the island in the near future to help with population monitoring and habitat restoration, including hopefully supplementing the wild population with some of our captive reared animals,” he added. www.longleat.co.uk

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.

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Please contact us toper find out more, Cattery £12 night viewings welcome by appointment Breed standard groom from £25, 01225 891466 & 07934 849987 Bath and blow dry from £10 info@fernfarmcountryclub.com Individual/group training Facebook: fernfarmcountryclub Fern Farm, The Shoe, North Wraxall, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 8SE www.fernfarmcountryclub.com

Please contact us to find out more, viewings welcome by appointment The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018 67

ADVERTISING FEATURE

With spring around the corner ...

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Perhaps you are doing this project yourself or working with a local landscape gardener or construction company?

The team offers over a dozen different types of plant machinery including micro diggers, a selection of midi diggers and larger diggers up to 20 tonnes. Also available e are telescopic and masted forklifts, dumper trucks, fuel bowsers and compaction machines. The machines can be hired by a homeowner with smaller building works right through to those who are managing or running large commercial projects.

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Andy Rohrer, co-director of Tiger Plant, said: “Hiring in equipment to help with these projects can save hours and doesn’t cost the earth. A mini digger hired for the weekend can get the job done much faster than trying to dig footings, level a garden, remove tree roots by hand. We can also supply machinery to move earth, debris from the back to the front of a property.”

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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GARDENING

T

Fertiliser

HIS month the days get longer and the sun gets stronger...we hope!

However March is famously temperamental and if the soil where you are is still wet and cold then it’s wise to delay planting and sowing until the temperature rises.

Plant nutrient reserves are low at this time of year so, as the soil warms up, it’s time to think about fertiliser.

Many gardeners are a bit frightened of fertiliser. All those chemical symbols on the side of the packet are rather reminiscent of school chemistry lessons. In fact the basics are quite simple.

NPK - This can be observed on the side of most fertiliser packages. The letters stand for: N - Nitrogen P - Phosphorous K - Potassium Together these are known as the macro-nutrients and each of them has its own use.

Nitrogen primarily feeds the leafy above-theground parts of the plants.

Phosphorous promotes strong roots.

Potassium makes grass hardier, promotes germination and improves vegetable and fruit yields.

The proportions of each macro-nutrient will be printed on the packet. Equal amounts of each nutrient make for a good general purpose fertiliser.

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A lawn will need a good balance of nitrogen and phosphorus to guarantee lush green grass with a healthy root system capable of withstanding dry spells. Fruiting plants need higher proportions of potassium.

There are other macro-nutrients: Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen, which plants obtain freely from the air and water; and calcium, magnesium and sulphur, which should be present in any good general purpose fertiliser.

Plants also need micro-nutrients: Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Boron and Molybdenum.

Plants take all these nutrients and build everything they need from scratch, including vitamins. What plants cannot do is absorb vitamins directly from things such as pet food, milk or so-called fertilisers which contain vitamins, proteins and fats.

So don’t be intimidated by fertiliser. Decide what your plants need then read the label. It’s easy as ABC..or rather NPK!

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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

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GARDENING

Watering and Wellies MARCH JOBS

• Prepare your beds for sowing by raking over when the soil is dry enough.

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• Keep on top of your weeding.

• Deadhead daffodils as the flowers finish and then let them die back naturally.

TOP TIP

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• Keep an eye out for slugs as the weather gets warmer. You can use nematodes for effective organic control.

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Grow your o wn spuds in a container. T his is a mag ical process and pra Fill the conta ctical too!

• Top dress your containers with a in fresh layer of compost. deep with co er 4 inches mpost. Put in potatoes th • Prune climbing roses. at have eyes in them, pointi ng upwards, • Mow the lawn on dry days if and space a bout 5 - 7 in required. ches apart. Cover th 3 inches of m em with o the shoots g ist soil. As row continu e to add furth er compost un layers of til you reach just near the top of the container. W ater and fee d.

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES

Audi A4 Avant 3.0 TDI Quattro 218PS

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist - tweeting @carwriteups Fitted with a 3.0 litre V6 engine, the latest Audi A4 Avant becomes almost too powerful for its own good.

Don’t get me wrong; the diesel lump is a real pearl, but there’s no way it returns the claimed 57.6mpg when riding on 19-inch wheels. I found the car thirsty, and mid-30s was more realistic for me when driving two-up, with no luggage, on a mix of motorways, A and B-roads.

The A4 estate model that Audi sent me came in top S line trim, and starts at £38,895, but with a few thousand pounds of options

thrown at it, my test car was waving a £46,395 price-tag.

You get a lot of kit for the cash, though and Audi is well-known for its upmarket, understated interiors that are both perfectly finished and intuitive.

This A4 doesn’t dissatisfy; it has upscale materials everywhere and a straightforward, intelligible dashboard arrangement. Technology is plentiful, too. It includes: a reversing camera, parking sensors, three-zone climate control, heated electric seats, and a powered, handsfree boot.

The A4 Avant is among the bestlooking estates on the market in Britain. It’s undeniably classy, and

the large 3.0 litre diesel engine is so smooth that it feels more like a hard-hitting petrol unit.

What’s more, indiscernible wind and road noise make the A4 the quietest cruiser in its class – by a long chalk. The ride is wonderful, and easily a match for BMW’s 3-series. The same goes for the car’s bob-on handling.

This practical five-up estate comes with Audi’s standard seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox. It changes slickly, keeping the revs low except when Dynamic mode is selected. A moderate push of your right foot is all that’s required to build momentum hastily; stamp down hard, though and you’ll get to 62mph in just 6.4 seconds.

PROS ‘N’ CONS • Fast √ • Quiet √ • Kit √ • Ride √ • Thirsty X FAST FACTS (3.0 TDI quattro 218PS) • Max speed: 152 mph • 0-62 mph: 6.4 secs • Combined mpg: 57.6 • Engine layout: 2967cc, six-cylinder turbo diesel • Max. power (PS): 218 • CO2: 126 g/km Price: £38,895

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

75

FAITH MATTERS

He was no fool T

he origin of the word ‘Easter’ is very uncertain. The eighth century monk and scholar, Saint Bede, suggested that the word may have come from the Anglo-Saxon word ‘Eeostre’ or ‘Eastre’ - a goddess of spring and fertility.

Another possibility is from the Norse ‘eostur’, ‘eastur’, or ‘ostara’, which meant ‘the season of the growing sun’ or ‘the season of new birth.’

The word east comes from the same roots. If this is true then,‘Easter’ is linked to the changing of the season. There are more recent and complex explanations but no one really knows.

I often take primary school assemblies and often when I ask the children what Easter is about they nearly always say it is about chocolate eggs, chicks and bunnies. Perhaps for many today that is what the festival has become. But for followers of Jesus Easter is the highlight of the Christian calendar. It’s the time when the Church celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

What happened on the cross that first Good Friday was a moment in history when Jesus’ act of love said to the world, “I love you. I have never stopped loving you. I want this relationship to continue. I will absorb all the pain and hurt so that we can be reconciled again.” The cross was the symbol of the worst form of human suffering, and on it Jesus entered into our pain so that we might have a restored relationship with God. Victory over evil was absorbed in that one moment. However, without Easter Day Jesus’ death would be meaningless.

This year Easter Day falls on April Fool’s Day. There were many at the time of Jesus death who thought he was a fool. His three years of ministry had come to an end in such a brutal way, but his

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

rising from the dead was a sign that it was not the end but the beginning of something wonderful. In so many ways Jesus looked like a fool when on earth, and not least on the cross. That was because God’s ways are counter-cultural, opposite to the dominant values and behaviours of our society.

God’s way turns the world’s values upside down, or I would say ‘the right way up’. The way that God intended them to be.

In today’s world, followers of Jesus might appear to be fools because of their commitment to Jesus’ values. It isn’t always popular to believe that Jesus is the Son of God sent into the world to rescue us. And many might think the good news of a crucified and risen Jesus makes no sense whatsoever. Those who try to be faithful to Jesus and his teaching might very well end up looking like “fools for Christ.”

One way to respond to this uncomfortable situation is to downplay or even deny those things that make followers of Jesus counter-cultural. But we are called to live differently. Called to live in a way that the world sometimes regards as foolish.

However, if we live out this calling with integrity, if we are truly people of love and grace, if we live sacrificially in service to others, many people will be drawn to all that Jesus stands for. I have seen it happen so many times. Jesus was no fool and neither are those who seek to follow his life and teaching, for they are the ones seeking to turn the world’s values the-right-way-up.

Wishing you every blessing this Easter time.

Revd. Sam King (revsamking@talktalk.net) Design & Computer Graphics

by Alexander S. Grenfell, Calne.

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We are; FAST (Friendly,accurate, straightforward and trustworthy) Contact Us Regulated by the institute of certified Bookkeepers (ICB) 1st Floor, Victoria House, Victoria St, Taunton, Can provide a flexible, affordable service.

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

Tel: 01249 814164 Mob: 07791 834904

Celebrating 10 years serving the Calne area The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

77

JO DEACON

Full of the Joys of Spring!

What a difference a sunny morning can make

decorate – there’s not much wall left visible!) The vacuuming needed doing too, and the bathroom floor.

I woke up today with a list of chores rattling around in my head, groaned, and considered turning over and nodding off again, but a stray shaft of sunlight poked through a gap in the curtains, and suddenly I was wide awake!

I don’t tear round the house like a manic Mrs. Mopp doing all that every week, but I had ignored most of the house work for several weeks, and I figured the day of reckoning had finally come.

I wouldn’t go so far as saying I bounced out of bed, but my usual sluggish crawl was a little faster than usual, and for once my feet found my slippers straight away without me having to root under the bed, the drawers, or the bedside table – wherever they’d landed when I’d kicked them off the night before.

I waved Fred off to work, opened all the curtains (much to the annoyance of the cockatiels who were still fast asleep with their tail feathers sticking out of their food dishes!) and made myself my first cup of tea of the day.

The sunlight tempted me outside, so I took my tea out onto the patio.

Then it started. “Ahhhh Choooooo!”

The tree pollen count must’ve been high, and I’m allergic to that. The first noise was me sneezing my head off my neck, and the second comment was when the mug of tea slopped all over my robe, soaking through and wetting my nightie.

“Oh well!” I thought to myself, “The sun is shining and this lot will wash.”

I made another drink, and this time managed to drink it without having to sieve it through my nightclothes first.

It was a beautiful morning, but I still had my list of chores to do, so after my third or fourth cup, I thought I might as well get myself in gear and roll my sleeves up.

Then I made a proper list of what I had to do. Washing, ironing, dusting the house, and cleaning the glass on the dozens of pictures monopolising all the walls. (I paint a lot, but in my own defence, we never have to 78

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

I set to with a will, and got a lot done by lunch time, but after I’d had my meal, guess what – I lost the urge to clean. (O come on! Haven’t you ever felt like that?)

I looked at my list and couldn’t decide which chore to attend to next – so I didn’t do any of them.

While the washing blew gently on the clothes line, I sat in the sun and relaxed. This was the first lovely day so far, and I was going to enjoy it.

I refused to feel guilty.

We get all kinds of birds in our garden, but out of all the different species, the ringed doves amuse me the most.

About as aerodynamic as a wheelie bin, they heave themselves into the air by way of a great deal of wingflapping, and most haven’t quite sorted out their landing technique, stopping only when they hit something!

They aren’t too fussy where they poop either.

I should’ve been grateful “it” missed my cup, but as the bird scored a direct hit on the top of my head,

grateful was the last thing I felt.

Leaping to my feet, I yelled to the retreating dove, “Right! That’s it! You can go somewhere else to be fed from now on!”

I had to go indoors to wash my hair!

I decided to sit outside again and let my hair dry in the sun.

I was happily reading a magazine when (I’ll swear it was the same bird) a dove came clumsily flapping across the garden, right over my head, and – I couldn’t believe it, pooped on my head AGAIN! I washed my hair again, and wisely decided that unless I was going to sit holding a brolly, I’d be safer staying indoors!

So I switched on the TV to see if there was anything I fancied watching.

There wasn’t. Cookery!

Cookery, and more cookery!

Why do the programme planners imagine afternoon viewers are besotted with making different dishes? And the fuss!

Three or four cooks all flapping about while taking the odd swig from the wine bottle, sweating with the heat from the hob and studio lights, and talking rubbish to each other with the occasional cooking instruction thrown in.

And the end result – do you frame it or what? It certainly isn’t what I would call a meal. There’s a round blob in the centre of the plate which resembles solidified frog spawn. To top the culinary triumph (!) off is a sprig of something I last saw when I weeded the garden!

Oh well, mustn’t grumble I guess.

The year is heading towards the lighter, warmer months, and after a few weeks, we’ll have Easter eggs to look forward to. I’m getting one of me ‘eads, so I think I’ll go indoors and brew up again.

Happy Springtime everybody. ............... Jo Deacon..@..2018 ..................

PUZZLE CORNER

Wiltshire Wet Rooms Designed, supplied, fitted

ACROSS 7 Put up for election (8) 8 Strong impulse, desire (4) 9 Small amount of food, a mouthful (6) 10 Snow-block house (5) 11 Diary keeper ____ Frank (4) 12 Accepted, allowed (8) 14 Possible (8) 18 Cloak (4) 20 Nibble, sample (5) 22 Small tower (6) 23 Puddling similar to semolina (4) 24 Gushing streams of water (8)

DOWN 1 Chrysalis (6) 2 Beatniks, bohemians (8) 3 Pungent bulb used in cooking (6) 4 Hand in your notice (6) 5 Haul, tug (4) 6 Disregard, neglect (6) 13 Happened (8) 15 Non-speaking actors in crowd scenes (6) 16 Gasp, inhale (6) 17 Whole, complete (6) 19 Lots, abundance (6) 21 Excessively studious person (4)

Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 80

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

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

We could have the solution!

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

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

Free, in home, demonstrations provided in local area.

WILTSHIRE WET ROOMS Expert bathroom and wet room fitters in North Wiltshire Contact Geoff Pearce for a free quote 1 Bremhill View, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9EE T: 07860 863014 E: wiltswetroom@gmail.com W: www.wiltshirewetrooms.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

79

BOOKS

A Good Read

The Island

by Victoria Hislop

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

It is books like this that remind you, in small ways, how fortunate we are to live in the 21st century when illnesses and diseases that were once considered a death sentence are now curable. One such disease is leprosy which provides the background for this debut novel.

Very often associated with Biblical times, it may be shocking to people to learn that in Europe as recently as 1957, victims of this disease were sent into isolation. The last known leper colony in Europe was the island of Spinalonga off the coast of Crete. This is the island of the novel’s title.

Alexis Fielding is a 25-year-old living in London who knows very little about her background other than the fact that her mother comes from Crete. For whatever reason her mother refuses to discuss her past. Frustrated by her silence, Alexis decides to take her own journey to her mother’s home village, Plaka, to discover the truth that her mother will not speak of. Through an old family friend, in the heat of the Cretan sun, Alexis learns of her family history. Of her great grandmother, Eleni, and her two daughters, Maria and Anna.

Crossword & Sudoku solution page 79

More crucially she learns of the sad past of the now deserted island, just 1km from Plaka. And how her family’s past is forever linked to this place where the shunned inhabitants tried to maintain some level of normalcy amidst their pain and isolation. In a culture where family is everything, how can a family continue when it is ripped apart?

The Monster of Shiversands Cove

by Emma Fischel

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

Ah, a summer holiday by the beach! Hot days playing in the sand. Days full of digging and snorkelling. Sounds like bliss! At least it DID. Stan is fed up. For the last four years his family have holidayed with his best friend, Rory’s, family. And this year was supposed to be the same until Rory’s parents both got new jobs and moved away. Now he is stuck in a cottage by the sea with Magnus, his four-year-old brother who is insistent that he is going to spend the whole holiday searching for fairies. Of course, Stan knows that this is nonsense and that fairies don’t even exist.

One night he decides he has had enough.

Magnus will not stop talking about the fairy he caught and has called Harry.

In a moment of anger, he agrees with Magnus that this may be a hot spot for fairies and elves, but that means it is also a hot spot for monsters! Magnus is terrified but of course he has no real need to be. Everyone knows that monsters aren’t real.

Or are they?

Reviews by Willow Coby 80

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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

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

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018 CBS Towncrier 156x222 April.indd 1

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03/04/2014 13:38

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

BUILDING AND HOME IMPROVEMENT To advertise call 01249 811068

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

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Email: gregddurrant@gmail.com 82

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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

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Professional Handyman Services • Renovation, Restoration, and Repairs of old and new buildings, small and large, Domestic and Business • External and internal painting and decorating • Repairs to bargeboards and fascia boards • Internal & external door hanging • Water damage repairs • Stud walls and ceiling-height book cases, and more • Sound proofing • Dry lining • Concrete paths, drives, shed bases, etc • Pointing, both traditional lime and modern mortars • Skirting, panelling, and floorboards and more - please ask Renovation, Restoration, Repairs Interior & exterior, Old and New Buildings

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Commercial & Domestic Property Maintenance • Painting and Decorating (internal and external) • Facia/Gutter Replacement and Repairs.

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

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

83

BUILDING AND HOME IMPROVEMENT

GRANTS

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

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Nick Pocock Electrical NICEIC Registered Domestic Installer T: 01249 461325 M: 07967 022446 nrpelectrical@hotmail.co.uk www.nrpelectrical.co.uk

Eaton Electrical

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

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Tel-01666 838096/07796000927

eatonelectrical75@gmail.com eatonelectrical75@gmail.com  Positive Input Ventilation [PIV] For all your electrical needs • Positive Input Ventilation [PIV] Tel: 01666 838096 / 07796 000927 Tel-01666  HeatVentilation Recovery[MVHR] Ventilation [MVHR Faults and repairs 838096/07796000927 • Heat Recovery • For all your electrical needs

Distribution board upgrades Faultselectrical and repairsneeds  For all• your Outside lamps or sockets Distribution board upgrades  Faults• and repairs Full property or extension rewires • Outside lamps or sockets  Distribution board upgrades

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Find in Checkatrade.com 84 Theme Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

*New build, refurbishment, retrof  Positive Input Ventilation [PIV *Full install and/or commi * Full design, installdesign, and/or commissioning  Heat Recovery Ventilation [MV *Removes damp and odours * Removes damp and odours *New build, refurbishment, re * New build, refurbishment, retrofit

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• Rewires • Storage Heating • Shower Installations • Extra Sockets & Lights • Electrical Maintenance • Electrical Contracting • Inspecting & Testing Based in Malmesbury, Wiltshire

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

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

ELECTRICAL & GENERAL MAINTAINING • REWIRES • CONSUMER UNITS • LED LIGHTING • ELECTRIC SHOWERS • EXTRA SOCKETS • KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Call Mike today to arrange a free quotation

Tel: 07786 164861 mcelectrical@hotmail.com

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

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Robert 01249 890492 mobile 07825 758705 The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

85

BUILDING AND HOME IMPROVEMENT

F. S. Plumbing & Heating Services Your local independent ‘Gas Safe’ plumbing engineer Free quotes • Competitive rates Boiler repairs/servicing/health checks • Power flushing

SPECIAL RATES FOR OAPs & EX SERVICES Special Offer for NEW CUSTOMERS in MARCH

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‘we will not be beaten on price’ commercial installations All prices include VAT All areas in Wiltshire serviced. Free Quotes.

TESTING Call INSPECTION out charge £45 inc.& VAT for first hour.

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Save with the Active Team Call Green Colin on:

01249 822033 or Plumbing & Heating Supplies 07887 765250 & Heating Supplies Solar Panels & Heat Pumps Plumbing & Heating Supplies ls & Heat Pumps Radiators & Underfloor Heating Solar Panels & Heat Pumps &U Heating Radiators & Underfloor Water Softeners & Salt Heating

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86

Collection & delivery available within the www.plumbingsuppliescalne.co.uk local area for a small charge.

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DE

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• Professional Floor & Wall Tiling • Specialists in fitting Natural Stone • Fully Installed Bespoke Wet Rooms and Bathrooms • Tile and Stone Floor Installation/Restorations • Comprehensive Electrical Underfloor Heating Installation T: 01249 824704 M: 07798 907852 E: info@afktiling.co.uk

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Tel: 07815 836953 email: maxcolbourne@me.com The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

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Steve’s Appliance Services

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TownCr er Building and Home Improvement

To advertise call 01249 811068 88

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Keep your chimney in safe working order by getting it swept Call Alex Wells from CLEAN SWEEP for an estimate now on

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

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS AUCTIONEERS Dominic Winter...................................... 20 Wessex Auction Rooms ......................... 92 BEDS Elite Beds .............................................. 19 BOOKEEPING/ACCOUNTANTS AMS Accounting..................................... 33 Duncan Joyce......................................... 31 Ledgibility.............................................. 77 VFL......................................................... 31 BUILDERS/BUILDING SUPPLIES AM Chivers Building............................... 83 All Home Improvements........................ 82 Buildit Malmesbury............................... 11 Chalford Building Supplies..................... 81 Corsham Landscapes and Building......... 69 Dearing Construction............................. 83 Downland Construction......................... 82 Ged Byrne.............................................. 83 Prior & Company Building...................... 82 SCS......................................................... 23 Tiger Plant Hire...................................... 68 Tim Lee Building.................................... 83 Ron Welch.............................................. 83 CAR REPAIR/VEHICLE SERVICES AM Autocare.......................................... 91 Cross Country Tyres................................. 75 MW Services.......................................... 75 CARE/CARE HOMES Prestige Nursing..................................... 27 Hill House............................................... 27 Kingston House...................................... 27 CARPENTER/JOINER Contours Carpentry................................ 83 CHIMNEY SWEEP Cleansweep............................................ 89 CHURCHES Calne Evangelical Church ...................... 38 CLEANING/DOMESTIC SERVICES Cleanstart.............................................. 83 Houseproud........................................... 77 iKlean..................................................... 37 Ovenclean ............................................ 68 Prune and Broom................................... 77 COACH HOLIDAYS Barnes Coaches........................................ 7 COINS/COLLECTIONS Daluka.................................................... 31 COMPUTER/IT/GRAPHICS/WEB Calne Computer Services ...................... 77 PC Hospital............................................. 29 CONSERVATORY Greenspace UK......................................... 9 Weatherguard........................................ 25 CURTAINS/BLINDS Goldmans Interiors................................. 55 DAMP Eaton Electrical...................................... 84 DANCING Eaton Electrical...................................... 84 DISCO Quicksteps.............................................. 32 DOMESTIC APPLIANCES/REPAIRS Calne Appliances.................................... 39 Steves Appliances.................................. 86 Tony Parsons.......................................... 86 90

EDUCATION/CHILDCARE Little Foxes............................................. 29 Rub A Dub.............................................. 29 St Margarets........................................... 28 Tumbletots............................................. 29 ELECTRICIANS/ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES Calne Appliances.................................... 39 Eaton Electrical...................................... 84 Electrical Man........................................ 85 Electrical and General Maintaining........ 85 Grants Electrical..................................... 84 Nick Pocock Electrical............................. 84 O and J Electrical.................................... 85 WEC......................................................... 5 ESTATE AGENTS Alan Hawkins......................................... 13 FITNESS/RUNNING Calne Smartt.......................................... 22 FLOORING/CARPET SERVICES BSB Flooring ......................................... 77 Cleanstart.............................................. 83 George Taylor Carpet Fitter ................... 77 iKlean..................................................... 37 Jason Elms............................................. 31 Total Carpets & Flooring......................... 27 FLORISTS Shirley’s Florists .................................... 41 FOOD & DRINK Allington Farm Shop.............................. 51 Bowood - Shelburne Restaurant............ 46 Calne Tandoori....................................... 39 FUNERAL DIRECTORS Johnson & Daltrey.................................. 33 Matthews of Malmesbury...................... 35 Odette.................................................... 39 Tony Warren ......................................... 37 E Wootten & Son.................................... 15 GARDENING/FENCING/LANDSCAPING Acres Ahead........................................... 73 AD Paving & Walling.............................. 73 Corsham Landscapes and Building......... 69 Crapper Compost.................................... 71 ES Earthmoving Services........................ 73 Garden Room......................................... 71 Graham Fox............................................ 71 Ian Marsh............................................... 71 Jon Burton............................................. 69 MH Tree Services.................................... 71 MR Fencing............................................ 73 Prune and Broom................................... 77 Quemerford Landscaping....................... 72 Tiger Plant Hire...................................... 68 Turners Landscapes................................ 69 Under the Ivy......................................... 71 Whitehall Garden Centre........................ 24 GATES Compass Security................................... 53 GIFTS/JEWELLERY Bazaar Gifts & Cards .............................. 41 GUTTERING Cleanstart.............................................. 83 HAIR/BEAUTY/NAILS Hair By Solo............................................ 61 LA Barber............................................... 59 Mill Beauty Studio.................................. 61 Pamplemouse........................................ 63 HANDY MAN Cleanstart.............................................. 83

The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018

Ged Byrne.............................................. 83 Odd Jobs................................................ 88 HEALTH CARE/FOOT CARE Calne Acupuncture................................. 61 Fiona Stubbs.......................................... 57 Foot Health Care..................................... 59 Harmony Holistics Reflexology............... 59 Malmesbury Osteopathy........................ 63 Nureflexology......................................... 59 HEATING H&G Sims............................................... 87 Skyline................................................... 88 HOME & INTERIORS Goldmans Interiors................................. 55 Sarah’s Soft Furnishings ........................ 25 SIT Upholstery........................................ 25 HOUSE CLEARANCE Crapper House Clearance........................ 77 HYPNOTHERAPY Hypnotherapy of Calne........................... 59 KITCHENS/BATHROOMS Accent Kitchens...................................... 37 Active Kitchens & Bathrooms................. 55 AFK Tiling............................................... 79 Aquarius Plumbing & Heating................ 79 Dream Doors ........................................... 2 Home Inspirations.................................. 57 Kitchen Makeover.................................. 25 Premier Kitchen Doors............................ 35 Total Bedrooms/Kitchens/Bathrooms..... 53 INSURANCE Allied Wessex......................................... 75 LEGAL SERVICES / WILL WRITING Awdry Bailey Douglas............................ 14 Batt Broadbent Solicitors....................... 13 Goodwills............................................... 33 LIGHTING Lightways.............................................. 25 LOCKS & ALARMS Alan Key Locks ....................................... 85

PLUMBING/HEATING/SUPPLIES ABC Plumbing........................................ 87 Ace Property.......................................... 87 Active Plumbing Supplies...................... 86 Aquarius Plumbing & Heating................ 87 Max Colbourne Oil & Gas........................ 87 F.S. Plumbing & Heating........................ 86 Graham Gas & Plumbing Services.......... 86 H&G Sims............................................... 87 Plumbing 4U.......................................... 86 RTC Plastering & Plumbing..................... 85 Steve Cowley.......................................... 87 Skyline................................................... 88 PHOTOGRAPHY Candid Pictures...................................... 18 ROOFING/TILING/THATCHING David Beal Thatcher............................... 89 Daylan Gleed Roofing............................. 89 Marden Roofing..................................... 89 White Horse Roofing.............................. 89 TAI CHI Riddlersend............................................ 26 TAXI Calne's Half Price Taxi............................. 41 TILING AFK Tiling............................................... 87 TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS Barnes Coaches........................................ 7 Pebbles Travel........................................ 40 TV/SATELLITE Aerial Services ...................................... 39 VETS George Veterinary Hospital.................... 64 Hale Veterinary Group............................ 68 Thameswood........................................... 3 UPHOLSTERY SIT Upholstery........................................ 25 WATER SOFTENERS Wiltshire Wet Rooms.............................. 79

MOBILITY Mobility Store........................................ 23

WEIGHT LOSS Oakmead Clinic...................................... 58 Slimming World .................................... 63

MODELS/TOYS Modelmaniacs....................................... 41

WET ROOMS Wiltshire Wet Rooms.............................. 79

MICROLIGHT FLIGHTS Wiltshire Microlight Centre ................... 34

WILL WRITING Goodwills............................................... 33

NUTRITION Oakmead Clinic...................................... 58

WINDOW CLEANERS Elmers Window Cleaning Servs. ............ 77

OFFICE SPACE Carlton Business Centre............................ 8

WINDOWS & DOORS Greenspace UK......................................... 9 Weatherguard........................................ 25

PAINTERS/DECORATORS/PLASTERERS ACM Decorating..................................... 85 Alan Clifford Painter & Decorator............ 85 AS Plastering.......................................... 85 RTC Plastering & Plumbing..................... 85 Sassy Chic............................................... 31 PETS/CATS/DOGS Animals at Home.................................... 65 Corton Kennels....................................... 65 Fern Farm Kennels.................................. 67 Grittenham Grooming............................ 67 George Veterinary Hospital.................... 64 Hale Veterinary Group............................ 67 Hobsons Regal Hounds........................... 65 Shirleys Pet Shop................................... 65 Thameswood Vets.................................... 3

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

Calne, Chippenham,

Corsham, Cricklad

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Wootton Bassett

FREE

and Villages

MARCH 2018

LOTS OF LOCAL EVENTS See Inside

Competitions

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details

Gift Guides

Mother’s Day Easter

Special Features

Spring Food Spring Clean

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SPRING!

WHAT ’S ON l FOOD l HEALTH & BEAUT

Y l TRAVEL l HOME The & GARD Town Crier MagazinEN

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

INCLUSIV

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FREE

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COURTESY CAR AVAILABLE

MOT RE-TESTS Within 10 working days

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

Your Local Indepen

Some makes and m

A M AUTOCARE offer a friendly, local and low priced servicing for your vehicle.

A M can carry out vehicle repairs, supply and fit new tyres and replacement cambelts. Diagnostic testing is available on most makes of cars and vans. All their mechanics are very experienced and main dealer trained.

A M Autocare are a MOT Centre. We provide MOTs for all makes and models of cars, vans and motorhomes.

A while you wait service and free collection and delivery is available.

AM

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Electrical Inspection

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MAUNDRELL ROAD, PORTE MARSH INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, CALNE, WILTSHIRE SN11 9PU 91

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Steering & Suspension Check Body Inspection

OPTIONS

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Tyre Inspection

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ALL MAKES & MODELS

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£145.00

INCLUSIVE

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Check. Gearbox Fluid Check

£179.00

18

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Your Local Independent Garage For Calne Crier | MARCH 91 Some makes The and Town models mayMagazine be excluded, please2018 call for details

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2018