Salisbury & Avon Gazette - Issue 44

What’s inside this issue…

01963 400186

01963 400186

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Queen to stay on as patron of charity

THE Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust has spoken of its pride after Queen Camilla chose to retain it as one of the charities to receive her patronage after hers and King Charles’ coronation.

The former Duchess of Cornwall has been involved with the charity since becoming one of its founding trustees in 1998.

After the death of Queen Elizabeth II, she and the king inherited hundreds of organisations that had received her patronage. The royal couple has spent months deciding which organisations they would become or remain patrons of.

Bobby Van Trust director Jennie Shaw received a letter from Buckingham Palace confirming Her Majesty would be delighted to continue and that the news was being released to mark the first anniversary of the coronation.

Mrs Shaw said: “We are delighted and very proud that Her Majesty has decided to continue as patron.

“It’s quite humbling when you look at the number of very large charities and organisations she has taken on, yet Wiltshire’s little old Bobby Van is one of

them; it’s wonderful.

“She has always been a tremendous supporter of what we do, particularly our work with victims of domestic abuse, which is a cause very close to her heart.”

The Wiltshire Bobby Van, formed in 1998, works in partnership with Wiltshire Police.

Its operators, both former police officers, visit homes across Wiltshire and Swindon to offer free practical home security measures, fire safety assessments and online

Help out at ground

FANS of Salisbury Football Club can do their bit for the club by helping prepare the ground for the new season in the National League South during annual maintenance days.

Over the weekend of June 22 and 23, supporters are invited to help with jobs that need to be done, such as painting, cleaning and more.

All supporters are welcome but are advised to wear clothing they don’t mind getting dirty and to dress appropriately for the weather and the expected jobs.

The supporters club said: “It’s a great way to meet up with other fans before the season starts. So come join us for one or both days and help get the Ray Mac ready for all the away fans this coming season.”

More details will be given in the coming days.

safety guidance for people over 60, those at risk of domestic abuse or over 18 with a registered disability.

In February, Queen Camilla attended a fundraising concert at Salisbury Cathedral, her first public engagement since her husband’s cancer diagnosis.

She has been a regular attendee at events and also chose to feature the charity when she guest edited Country Life.

Find out more about the work of the charity at wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk.

PICTURE: Dave Cox

Another footpath re-opens as work on Salisbury River Park takes step towards summer finish

A POPULAR footpath in Salisbury has re-opened - two years after it was closed.

The route, part of the Salisbury River Park site, connects the Ashley Road section with the Central Car Park and was closed in August 2022 as work on the scheme progressed.

It is popular with residents and visitors travelling into the city centre from the northwestern areas of Salisbury and will allow pedestrian access along the River Avon and Mill Stream from Waitrose to the city centre.

The footpath connecting Five Rivers Health and Wellbeing Centre to Ashley Road was re-opened earlier in May, although finishing works are still ongoing on the path.

Salisbury River Park, being delivered by the Environment Agency, aims to reduce flood risk to more than 350 homes and businesses in the city, as well as providing

major ecological, amenity, walking and cycling benefits and boosting biodiversity.

The project is a collaboration between the Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council.

Work is set to be completed later in the summer, featuring 650 metres of new and improved cycle routes and 1,600m of new or improved footpaths.

The new footpaths and cycleways have been designed to meet and exceed guidelines on accessibility, width and material requirements.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, said the re-opening of the footpath marked another step forward for the Salisbury River Park Project and would encourage people to walk and cycle around the city.

“It is a key priority for us, to have vibrant, well-connected communities and that we have an efficient and effective

transport network offering viable alternatives to the car,” he said.

“We are delighted that this key walking and cycling route into Salisbury has now re-opened, which will not only encourage more people to visit and spend time in the city centre and to take in the beautiful new surroundings that the River Park scheme has to offer, but also comes with the added benefits of reducing carbon emissions and improving the air quality in the area.

“We can’t wait to see the final stages of the project take shape and look forward to the project being completed later this year.”

All remaining paths are set to open to the public this summer, with more seeding and planting taking place over the remainder of the year, based on when the best time is for the particular type of planting.

Further information on the project can be found at www.salisburyriverparkphase1. com.

Parks could get makeover if villages and towns take them on

PLAY areas across Wiltshire could get a boost thanks to more than £600,000 of new funding.

Parish councils across the county are being offered the opportunity to upgrade play areas as part of a £603,000 programme from Wiltshire Council.

The council currently has 24 equipped rural play areas around the county that communities have yet to adopt - and it is looking for parish councils that would like to take on the running of them and improve them.

Eligible rural parish councils can accept funding from Wiltshire Council, which will be allocated based on an assessment of what is required to upgrade the park before taking responsibility for the facility. Or, if they wish, the parish council can request that Wiltshire Council upgrades the equipment first, before then transferring the play area to the parish council.

Councillor Tamara Reay, cabinet member for assets, said: “We know just how important staying active is to children’s learning, development and growth, which is why we’re investing £603,000 into improving rural play areas throughout the county.

“We are writing to all rural parish

councils that currently have a Wiltshire Council play area to offer them the opportunity to improve the facility using these funds, and then to take on the running of the park through an asset transfer agreement.

“This has the dual benefit of upgrading these play areas with brand new equipment, while also enabling local communities, through their parish council, to have more say on how these play areas are run in the future to ensure they reflect the needs of the people who live there.

“We know that many parish councils would like to take on these play areas, and this additional funding will put them in the best position to do so.”

The council has previously transferred more than 100 play areas to local communities, in line with its Business Plan commitment.

To find out more about the programme, parish councils should contact streetscene@ wiltshire.gov.uk.

The eligible play areas are as follows:

Hilperton: Stourton Park, Lacock Gardens, Millard’s Close, Foxglove Drive

Monkton Farleigh: Broadstones, Farleigh Rise

Corton

Heywood: Hawkeridge Park

Netheravon: Old School Close

Colerne: Pinewood Way

Collingbourne Ducis: Saunders Meadow, Saxon Rise

Great Bedwyn: Shawgrove

Middle Winterslow: Stone Close

Dilton Marsh: The Breach

Redlynch: The Close Semington: Wessex Close

Staverton: Marina Drive, Thestfield Drive, Cottles Barton, Oatfields

Zeals: Westfields

Yatton Keynell: Clarkes Leaze

Upavon: Farriers Field

Serious injury in minibus crash

ONE person is in a life-threatening condition in hospital after a crash involving a Land Rover and a minibus.

The crash happened on the A345 at Newtown, Enford, at around 4.45pm on Wednesday afternoon (June ).

Wiltshire Police are investigating the crash and have appealed for anyone who witnessed it, or has any details, to come forward.

“A young female passenger was taken to hospital where she remains in a life threatening condition,” a spokesperson said.

They said the road was closed for several hours after

the crash, and appealed for anyone with dashcam footage or information that could help enquiries to come forward.

“If you saw what happened or have dash cam footage please contact the serious collision investigation team on 01225 694597 quoting log number 232 of June 5,” they added.

“Alternatively, you can email the team at SCIT@wiltshire. police.uk.”

Pair attacked in city park

A MAN and a teenage girl were assaulted as they walked through a Salisbury park.

Police are investigating after an incident in Queen Elizabeth Gardens, pictured, above at around 8.45pm on Monday, June 3.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said a man in his 20s and a 16-year-old girl were assaulted.

“The man was punched to the face and the girl was punched several times,” they said.

“Fortunately, the girl managed to break free however, the suspect threw her mobile phone into the river.

“She required medical attention for her injuries.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact police on 101 and quote crime reference number 54240064414.

JULY GETAWAYS BY COACH

Man jailed after stealing bank cards and keys from leisure centre lockers

STEALING bank cards from a Salisbury leisure centre has landed a 31-year-old in prison.

Aiden Marks (formerly Greene) has been jailed for three years and three months after stealing the cards and using them in nearby shops.

Marks, of Khartoum Road, Weymouth, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on June 3 after previously pleading guilty to 18 offences of theft, fraud and vehicle interference.

Between February 13 and March 26, Marks went into unlocked lockers at Five Rivers Leisure Centre in Salisbury and stole items including bank cards and car keys. He then entered their cars in the car park and stole items before returning the keys. He then used the cards at

local supermarkets.

Marks pleaded guilty to six charges of fraud by false representation, six of theft, possession of a Class A drug and possession of a Class B drug.

Local Crime Investigator Fiona Penny said: “I hope this sentence is a deterrent to others who think it is okay to go through other people’s things and take what they want.

“Marks repeatedly took advantage of people who had not locked their personal items away and used their money for his own gratification.

“Your mobile phone, coins for the car park, sunglasses, packs of medication or other items that can earn quick cash are irresistible to the opportunist thief. I would urge anyone leaving their personal belongings such as wallets, handbags, purses and credit cards unattended should try to lock them away.

“This investigation looking into 18 offences committed by Marks is a demonstration of the team work between Neighbourhood Policing Teams and the Volume Crime Team within Wiltshire Police.”

Officers disciplined over Carrick probe failures

TWO Wiltshire Police officers have received final written warnings over a “failure in duties” while investigating allegations of abuse against disgraced Met officer, David Carrick.

A Gross Misconduct Hearing upheld allegations of discreditable conduct and a failure in duties against Inspector David Tippetts and PC Emma Fisher.

The hearing was chaired by an independent Legally Qualified Chair (LQC).

The misconduct allegations centred on a 2016 report from a member of the public regarding allegations of abuse involving Carrick – then a serving

Metropolitan Police Service officer.

The LQC upheld 11 allegations that PC Fisher failed to investigate the allegation adequately or at all, failed to carry out her duties and obligations to the best of her ability, did not ensure that an accurate record of her actions were kept and she was not diligent in the performance of her duties. One allegation was withdrawn and three were not proven.

The LQC also upheld five allegations concerning Insp Tippetts that he had not verified that PC Fisher had undertaken any or all of the matters under investigation, had not instructed

PC Fisher to undertake any or all of the matters under investigation, had not noted PC Fisher’s lack of investigation and had not recommended or instructed her to carry out any further actions in relation to the allegation.

Taken cumulatively, the panel determined that the breaches reached the threshold of misconduct.

As a result of this finding, both officers were given final written warnings.

This hearing forms part of a wider, independent investigation led by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) into police handling of reports regarding Carrick.

In December 2022, Carrick pleaded guilty to 49 charges, including 24 counts of rape, and was later jailed for life.

Deputy Chief Constable Craig Dibdin said: “This is a clear case of officers failing, in the most basic sense, to properly investigate allegations made to them. This failure in service was compounded by a lack of proper oversight and scrutiny by a supervisor.

“While it would be inappropriate to comment on the ongoing IOPC investigation, clearly the public will have questions as to the impact this inaction might have had on Carrick’s vile offending after 2016.”

Aiden Marks has been jailed Picture: Wiltshire Police

Electric bus put through its paces on Salisbury route

SALISBURY residents and visitors were given a chance to look into the future of buses in the city while an electric demonstrator took on routes during a trial.

Users of the Salisbury Reds limited service were asked to complete a short survey detailing their views on the bus and how it compares to the current diesel fleet.

The trial came after the announcement of plans to bring 23 zero-emission electric buses to the streets of Salisbury, which will come into service in 2026.

They are set to run on major city routes and in surrounding areas, including services to and from Stonehenge and the city’s Park and Ride sites.

A Salisbury Reds spokesperson said the firm is

undertaking research into the best electric buses on offer, and used the Volvo BZL, right, to garner public opinion.

“We are asking our customers for feedback, including how they compare to our existing diesel buses, whether they like the interior layouts, how they feel about the noise of the buses, and whether they are likely to travel more or less on the new electric buses.

com/r/reds_electric, they added.

Quick news

charged with teen assault

A 41-YEAR-OLD man has been charged with sexually assaulting a teenager outside a Salisbury shop.

The incident is alleged to have taken place outside Tesco, in Castle Street, at around 4.35pm in the afternoon on Monday, June 3.

“This is an excellent opportunity for our drivers and customers to see what’s in store when our new fleet arrives.”

People can still provide feedback via a short online survey at www.surveymonkey.

The move to electric follows Salisbury Reds’ and Wiltshire Council’s successful bid for funding from the Department of Transport’s latest ZEBRA (Zero Emission Bus Regional Area) scheme.

The funding, combined with additional investment, means a total of £11.4m will be used to revamp the city network.

Alfie Smith appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 5, accused of sexually touching the teenager.

He has been released on bail and is due to reappear at court on June 14.

Work underway on £5.8 million scheme to give Salisbury Station forecourt a major makeover

WORK on a major £5.8 million revamp of the forecourt at Salisbury Station has begun.

After the approval of final designs for the site by South Western Railway and Network Rail, work got underway on Monday, June 10.

The scheme will take approximately a year to complete, Wiltshire Council said, with all pay and display parking on the forecourt removed for the duration of the works.

Parking at the western end of the car park will remain open and there will be temporary parking available at Central Car Park, a seven-minute walk away.

Existing short-stay parking is being changed to long-stay parking to support rail customers until the new station car park on Fisherton Street, next to the Royal Mail Salisbury Delivery Office, is opened later this year.

Vehicular and pedestrian directional signs will also be in place to support rail users.

Blue badge parking will still

be available on the Salisbury Station forecourt throughout the works, as well as taxi bays, Stonehenge bus and rail replacement bus services.

Site preparation work started on June 3, involving trial holes to confirm the location of underground utilities, soil testing and surveys.

The main enhancement work will be carried out in three phases, including extensive landscaping featuring the planting of trees and shrubs, installation of modern street furniture, and implementation of “intuitive wayfinding systems”, along with more sustainable travel facilities such as a bus interchange.

Lighting designed to ensure safety across the site is also planned.

The council said the designs reflect the station’s character as well as replicating the styles and palette of materials used on the neighbouring Fisherton Gateway scheme.

A spokesperson said it was hoped the design would enable the station to provide a “more

welcoming first impression to the historic cathedral city and be more accessible for visitors and residents”.

Cllr Tamara Reay, cabinet member for transport, added: “As we gear up to start these important improvements, we are asking rail customers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.

“A scheme of this nature will cause some disruption so by being prepared we hope Salisbury Railway Station will continue to operate effectively.

“This is the second scheme being funded by the £9.4m investment via the government’s Future High Streets Fund and supports our business plan to create and support wellconnected, vibrant city centres.”

Andrew Ardley, regional development manager (West) for South Western Railway (SWR), added: “SWR is very grateful for the substantial financial and time commitment that Wiltshire Council has made in investing in our station forecourt.

“SWR has already invested

over £750,000 in the scheme through our Customer and Communities Investment Fund, with the construction of the new cycle hub marking the first phase of the works.

“The scheme will make a real difference to our customers and will make the station a high-quality gateway which the city can be proud of.

“The changes will also enable us to have new direct local buses connecting with rail services which we know is really important to our customers.

“The scheme complements other recent improvements at the station including the refurbished waiting rooms, station re-painting and improvements to the subway which we hope to complete in the near future.

“We have worked closely with Wiltshire Council to ensure that replacement parking spaces are available nearby at Central Car Park and will be opening the new station car park next to the Royal Mail depot later in the year.”

Quality care in Salisbury you can trust

When a family is thinking about care for a loved one, they want the best - they want to know that the care home they choose will put their loved one’s safety, happiness and wellbeing first.

Salisbury Manor is managed by award-winning provider Care UK - one of the UK’s most highly successful care home operators* with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to older people.

Living at Salisbury Manor is all about quality of life. Every colleague in the home is passionate about enabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and preferences. The lifestyle team will organise a huge variety of group and one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day.

With the extra support that our care home offers, new residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even discovering new hobbies with our daily activities. The purpose-built home is designed for enjoying a luxury lifestyle, with en-suite rooms and facilities including a cinema, café, hair and beauty salon, and comfortable lounges and dining rooms. The home also boasts lovely gardens with wheelchair friendly pathways – the perfect place to spend

some time when the weather allows. Whether your loved one enjoys a quiet cup of tea in bed before starting the day, loves going for strolls in the landscaped grounds, or enjoys a chat over a glass of wine, the team at Salisbury Manor will spend time to enable them to continue living life the way they want to.

Salisbury Manor care home

Salisbury Manor Shapland Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7EJ 01722 638 965 careuk.com/salisbury-manor

*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland.

The Big Care UK

Sports Day

Thursday 25th July 2024 2pm - 5pm

Come along to Salisbury Manor care home to celebrate The Big Care UK Sports Day, where we’re welcoming the local community to join us for fun and games at our Olympics-themed open day, or simply relax and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere.

Trusted to care.

For more information call 01722 638 965 or email suzanne.hesk@careuk.com

Mini overturned

A MINI overturned and hit a tree after leaving the A303 at Tisbury – but the driver left the scene.

The crash happened on the westbound junction carriageway near Chicklade some time between 7am and 7.30am on Tuesday, May 28.

The red Mini was empty when emergency services arrived, said PC Daniel Laurie, from the Wiltshire Police Roads Policing Unit.

“This collision caused significant damage and we have concerns about the driver’s welfare, who was not at the scene when we arrived,” he said.

“From the damage to the

FASHIONS & LINGERIE

vehicle we are concerned that they will need medical attention.

“We have made a number of enquiries including checks with local hospitals and would urge anyone with information to contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone who can help with police enquiries, or was involved in the crash, should call police on 101, quoting reference number 54240061637.

Years-long campaign to give village communities their own hall comes to end with official opening event

YEARS of planning and fundraising came to fruition for two Bourne Valley communities with the official opening of a new village hall.

Allington and Boscombe Village Hall was unveiled by Dan Brunton, the son of Michael Brunton BEM, and the former parish council chair’s wife, Fiona, who long campaigned for the parishes to have their own facility.

During his 14 years as chair of the council, Mr Brunton led efforts to have a hall built for use by the community.

“The opportunity became a reality when the Patterson family decided to sell their home and some land in Boscombe to NERO Developments Ltd,” a spokesperson said.

Annington Homes - built a village hall for the two villages.”

Once plans were drawn up, fundraising got underway, with the community uniting to host a raft of band nights, fetes, bonfire

handed over to the new hall, with trustees taking over the running of the venue.

“Sadly, Michael Brunton died in 2021, before the village hall was finished, although he did have an opportunity to visit the partially-completed hall,” the spokesperson went on.

“A plan was drawn up and agreed upon, with a clause that stipulated the sale would only be signed off if the developers -

parties, wine and cheese parties and Christmas events in a bid to get the money together.

Finally, in April 2024, the keys were

It was then agreed unanimously by the parish council to name the hall in his honour.

And so it was, on June 1, Michael’s son Dan and wife Fiona cut the ribbon to the new hall.

“The Brunton Memorial Hall is now a valuable and muchneeded facility for the community to come together for groups and events, a venue for clubs, classes and societies and a venue for private hire for gatherings and parties,” the spokesperson added.

For more information - and to enquire about hire - visit allingtonandboscombe.org. uk/village-hall/brunton-memorial-hall.php.

Dan and Fiona Brunton officially opened the hall, named in honour of their dad and husband, Michael

Picture: Wiltshire Council

Police hand out fines to school run drivers who breached no-go rules

POLICE handed out a number of £50 fines to drivers in Harnham who breached an order in force during the school run.

A Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), which bans cars from Hollows Close, is in place between the hours of 7.30am and 9.30am, and from 2pm to 6pm, on weekdays.

Wiltshire Police officers went on patrol in the area on June 6 and handed out a number of Fixed Penalty Notices.

A police spokesperson said: “The TRO has been put in place during school drop off and pick up times to allow children and parents/guardians to walk to and from school safely.

“Please consider allowing extra time for your journey if you are attending the school to drop off or collect a child.

“Traffic Regulation Orders are put in place to help us manage the highway network for all road users including pedestrians and aim to improve

This Summer @ This Summer @

Ceilidh in the Garden

Ceilidh Factor’s music is guaranteed to get you up and dancing, with their friendly caller to guide you Marquee in case of rain!

Saturday 15 June, 18:30

Sherlock & Watson: A Murder in the Garden

This brand-new adaption is an outrageous comedy full of slapstick, and pumped full of live music

Thursday 27 June, 19:30

Valerie Amos in conversation

Politician and diplomat, former UN UnderSecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator

Tuesday 9 July, 19:00

Jazz in the Garden: The Schmoozenbergs

Electrifying gypsy swing, with bouncing rhythms, and playful improvisations to put a spring in your step

Friday 12 July, 19:30

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare’s funniest, most magical comedy of all! This hilarious adaptation sees the fantastical characters brought vividly to life

Thursday 1 August, 19:00

Peter Pan: A Magical Open-Air Musical

Filled with catchy music, heaps of audience interaction, and a laugh-a-minute script Suitable for ages 4+

Sunday 11 August, 17.30

Pictures: Wiltshire Police

Cancer patient Jean, 77, taking on fundraising walk for her ward

A 77-YEAR-OLD being treated for cancer is set to take on a 10k walk to raise money for the hospital looking after her.

Jean Chambers is among nearly 1,500 people who have signed up for this year’s Walk for Wards event, which raises money for Salisbury Hospital’s Stars Appeal.

She will be taking on the 10k route at Wilton House on July 7 in aid of the hospital’s Pembroke Cancer Unit, which has supported her through her treatment.

Jean, who was diagnosed with lymphatic cancer last January, said: “Receiving my cancer diagnosis floored me for a while. I’d never heard of lymphatic cancer; it was all new to me. It was very hard, as I’ve lost quite a lot of my family to cancer.”

Jean is currently having chemotherapy, meaning she has to spend a considerable time at the hospital.

But she said Stars Appeal projects like the aromatherapy sessions and free snacks and refreshments are “such a relief” and help the time go by quicker.

Reclining chairs, also funded by the charity, enable Jean to be more comfortable when having her treatment.

All these extras, she said, provide those “little home comforts”.

“It was a very pleasant surprise to have the aromatherapy,” she said.

“I thought I’d give it a go and it did make me feel so relaxed. It helps calm you down.”

The Stars Appeal funds other projects supporting patients

with cancer including free headwear, dedicated swimming sessions in the hospital’s pool and other wellbeing programmes.

The charity also provides enhancements to the Pembroke Unit’s furnishings and décor, as well as advanced diagnostic and treatment equipment.

“Having cancer treatment makes you realise how many people are going through it too,” Jean went on.

“I want to raise money so other people can have the same support as I have had.

“I want to help make sure the Pembroke Unit can continue giving aromatherapy, providing headwear, and snacks and refreshments to support people with cancer.

“I want to say thank you for everything they’ve done for me

in Haematology and on the Pembroke Suite. The staff are so welcoming and are never too busy to answer my questions.

“You feel someone is there to hold your hand every step of the way.

“I felt this was a nicer way of thanking the Pembroke Suite which will help other people.

“Long may the Stars Appeal continue what it’s doing and making patients feel more comfortable during a very stressful time in their lives.”

It is free to register for Walk for Wards and participants can raise money for a ward or department that is special to them.

There are three routes to choose from – a 3k, 5k and 10k - and to find out more, visit www.starsappeal.org/event/ walk-for-wards.

Walk for Wards sees hundreds of people take on a challenge for the Stars Appeal, with Jean Chambers, inset, among them

Election day excitement builds with Labour neck and neck

Opinion polls consistently have Labour sitting as the preferred option to the Conservatives in Salisbury.

Even the bookmakers agree, giving them almost the same odds to win as the Conservatives.

If the seat goes Labour it will be an historic victory for Salisbury and South Wilthsire.

Matt Aldridge, the popular Labour candidate, is cautiously optimistic as voting day approaches.

“I’ve spent a lot of time listening to local concerns and issues raised by our farmers, teachers, businesspeople, armed forces personnel, police officers and hard working families,” he said.

Projected vote share in Salisbury for the General Election: ElectionPolling.co.uk, June 2024

“You tell me you’re worried about the cost of living, the economy, the NHS and their kids’ future. You’re upset about sewage in our chalk

streams and worried about climate protection from flooding. With your valued input, I’m standing as a stronger voice for Salisbury, determined to make Labour policies and investment serve our community.”

Matt Aldridge, a former Bishop’s Head Boy, is a clean energy expert, a Major and Army Reservist, who served our country during two tours of Afghanistan. He brings five years’ experience as a strategist and policy maker in high profile private and public sector roles.

With his wife and young daughter, he says he lives the cost-of-living crisis every day, and is determined to make the change Salisbury deserves.

Let’s re-energise Salisbury by rebuilding services, backing local business and supporting our hard-working farmers and families.

I’m passionate about getting the NHS back on its feet, investing in our kids’ education, sorting out our roads and transport, and reviving all our high streets.

I will also fight to protect our farms and our homes with stronger climate resilience and flood protection.

Immerse yourself in history during the 2024 Chalke History Festival

IMMERSE yourself in the past at the UK’s leading history festival, June 24-30, 2024, in Broad Chalke, Salisbury.

Over the past decade or so, the Chalke History Festival has firmly established itself as one of the must-attend events of the year, with its mixture of talks, performance, living history and all the elements that the best English summer festivals should have: eye-catching tents, delicious food and drink, and a magical atmosphere.

With nearly 140 talks, panel discussions, quizzes, live podcasts and debates, this year’s line-up is certainly its most varied to date, offering a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to engage with history in a dynamic and interactive way, and appealing to both history buffs and casual visitors alike.

The star-studded lineup of speakers includes: Michael Palin, Tom Holland, Tracy Borman, Al Murray, Bettany Hughes, Charlie Higson, Sathnam Sanghera and Kate Mosse.

Entry for children is just £5 a day and there are loads of activities for all the family to get involved in.

The little ones can have hours of fun in the Storystock Children’s Tent of Surprises. Elsewhere on the site, children will get a chance to watch history come to life through performance and living history events.

Plus, there will be talks specifically aimed at young minds of all ages where the speakers will cover a diverse range of topics, designed to make

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An area of hardstanding near the public toilets and the skatepark at Churchill Gardens will be replaced with grass and two new paths

New green space and paths to be created near loos at Churchill Gardens

PART of a Salisbury park will be returned to nature after plans were approved.

Under the scheme, a large area of hardstanding near the public toilets and skatepark at Churchill Gardens will be removed, with another area relayed.

The removed area of hardstanding, to the south of the toilets, will be relaid with with grass, with two new paths created to other areas of the gardens.

The plans have been approved by Wiltshire Council.

A report on the scheme said: “The proposed works as outlined are considered to be an enhancement of the existing section of the public park and would create a more accessible and user-friendly area for its users.

“As such, is it considered that this scheme is unlikely to have any adverse impacts on the amenity of the area.”

The planning application, submitted by Atlas Planning Group on behalf of Salisbury City Council, said: “The existing hardsurfacing to the west of the public toilets will be tarmacked and concrete pavers removed.

“The aim of the proposal is to enhance the character and useability of this part of the gardens, plus increasing the biodiversity of the site.”

Churchill Gardens is a mile south of the city centre, and is billed by the council as “a popular setting for a relaxing walk alongside the river”, as well as for runners and cyclists.

As well as the skatepark, the gardens also boast a street sports area, parkour and disc golf.

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Stars Appeal trekkers’ fundraising total revealed at special celebration

A GROUP of Stars Appeal fundraisers who trekked for miles over five days to reach Colombia’s Lost City raised a whopping £83,927.

The group of 33, aged from 80 to 23, walked between six and 12 hours each day during their trip in April, to reach the 1,500-year-old Lost City of Teyuna.

They faced torrential rain and sticky, slippery mud as they trekked through the rainforest.

After their long days of walking, they stayed in simple communal bunkhouses, before getting up at 4.30am to start again.

The walk culminated in a climb of 1,200 near-vertical, ancient stone steps.

Many of the intrepid trekkers reunited on Tuesday, June 4, at the White Hart Hotel in Salisbury to celebrate the grand total raised through their efforts for the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity.

Salisbury Hospital Eye Consultant Dr Rashi Arora, who took part in the trek and is also a Stars Appeal Hospital Ambassador, said: “This was a group of ordinary people who became extraordinary together.

“The trek was tough, you cannot deny

that. We are people from everyday walks of life. I’m not a professional trekker, but the group made me feel like one.”

In total, the trekkers hiked more than 50 miles and ascended over 3,400m – more than the combined height of the UK’s highest mountains, Ben Nevis, Snowden, and Scafell Pike.

“When I saw them so passionate, not just about the trek, but about the hospital and the Stars Appeal, it made me feel very humbled,” Dr Arora added.

“It reminded me of the reasons why I became a doctor and renewed my sense of purpose.

“The Stars Appeal funds a lot of equipment in the Eye Clinic, which helps us provide the best care for our patients.”

During the celebration evening, the charity’s president, the Earl of Pembroke, gave his thanks to the trekkers and to everyone who has supported them in their efforts.

Staff from the hospital, who volunteer as Stars Appeal Ambassadors, also spoke of the difference funds raised for the charity make to patients across the hospital.

Money raised by the trekkers will help the Stars Appeal provide extra care and equipment across Salisbury District Hospital.

Among projects the charity is currently fundraising for are high definition videoscopes for diagnosing head and neck cancer, ‘By Your Side’ sleeper chairs for those staying alongside loved ones in hospital and ongoing work such as the Stars Appeal WiFi, hospital chaplaincy, cancer support and the Stars Appeal Play Assistant on Sarum Children’s Ward.

The funds raised through the Lost City Trek and from previous Stars Appeal treks to Petra, the Grand Canyon, Machu Picchu in Peru, and the Great Wall of China, now give a five-trek total of more than £486,866.

Jayne Prigent, who has completed five treks for the Stars Appeal, said: “When we first suggested trekking for the Stars Appeal 10 years ago, we could never have anticipated that they’d be such a success, or that they could have raised so much.”

The Stars Appeal is already planning its next trek adventure and the destination will be revealed later in the year.

Stars Appeal fundraisers celebrate their achievements with charity representatives during the special event

Picture: Spencer Mulholland

Your chance to represent community on Salisbury City Council

PEOPLE are being urged to put themselves forward for a role representing their community.

An election is set to be held for a member of Salisbury City Council after the is to be held for the area of Salisbury St Francis and Stratford ward.

The vacancy arose after former councillor for the area, Conservative Mark Mewse, resigned after being convicted of harassing an ex-girlfriend.

The 64-year-old harassed the woman between September 2022 and July the following year.

Now, the city council is urging people to put themselves forward to join the council and become a voice for the community.

“Becoming a Councillor is a rewarding experience and will give you the opportunity to make a real difference in your local area and help improve the lives of residents,” a spokesperson said.

“The role can include helping with problems, coming up with ideas, working with local community groups and making and reviewing decisions.”

To stand for election for the role of city councillor in Salisbury St Francis and Stratford, you will first need to obtain a nomination paper from the Returning Officer. This can be found at the following places:

• Electoral Commission website: www. electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/ candidate-or-agent/parish-council-electionsengland

• From Main Reception at County Hall, Bythesea Road, Trowbridge BA14 8JN

• From Main Reception at The Council House, Bourne Hill, Salisbury SP1 3UZ

• From Main Reception at Council Offices, Monkton Park, Chippenham SN15 1ER

• By calling Wiltshire Electoral Services on 0300 456 0112.

This will then need to be hand delivered

Police warning after gardening scam claim

POLICE are warning househlds to be on their guard after reports of a possible scam.

On June 4, two men attended an address in Lower Quidhampton asking to do work within the garden area, a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said.

“They stated they were from Wiltshire Council and they had been tasked to attend due to the state of the front garden.

“The resident refused the work and asked the men to leave but they continued to be persistent to try and get the resident to agree to the work.

“Fortunately, no money was handed over and the men eventually left.

“We are urging residents to be vigilant and look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Do not agree to any work you have not booked in advance and ensure you gather a number of quotes before proceeding with work you require.”

To report a suspected crime, call 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.

to the Returning Officer, or his appointed staff at Electoral Services, Wiltshire Council, County Hall, Bythesea Road, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8JN on any day after the date of the notice, on working days from Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm (excluding bank holidays) but no later than 4pm on Friday, June 14.

If the election is contested, the poll will take place on Thursday, July 11.

For more information, including the Notice of Election and how to vote, visit https://salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk/ourcouncil/your-councillors/notice-of-election.

The vacancy has arisen after the resignation of former councillor Mark Mewse, inset

‘It’s important for volunteers to feel part of an organisation’

Wessex Community Action is the council for voluntary services in Wiltshire and provides practical support for community organisations on funding, governance, planning, policy development, recruiting and leadership. This monthly volunteering column looks at all aspects of volunteering and how people can give up their time for the benefit of their communities...

THIS week (June 3 to 9) is the 40th Volunteers’ Week, an annual chance to recognise the enormous contribution to society that volunteers make.

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) estimates volunteers’ efforts add an estimated £18.2 billion to the UK economy every year so it is important to pause in a week like this and thank them.

But is a yearly thank you enough? What should be done to make them feel appreciated enough to want to carry on donating their time and expertise?

A Wessex Community Action (WCA) survey last year found half of the charities who responded said they find it hard to attract new volunteers and with a significant portion of volunteers being older, it is clear they are not a finite resource. This is serious when you consider one in five of the charities who responded to that survey rely solely on volunteers.

Not all volunteers need thanks of course but at a time when voluntary groups and charities have fewer resources and are being pushed harder to meet increasing demand on their services, volunteers can often bear the brunt.

Jennie Shaw, director of the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust, says her organisation couldn’t function without volunteers and believes making them feel appreciated and respected is a high priority.

“We have team meetings every month where everything is openly discussed and shared,” she said. “I think it is really important for volunteers to feel part of the organisation.”

She makes sure volunteers are told about thank you messages from clients, they receive birthday wishes and that they and their partners are invited to get-togethers. “It’s the partners who are losing their husbands or wives while they go out to volunteer for us,” she said.

Getting to know volunteers and their motivation for doing so is just as important. “It’s about understanding what makes them tick and making sure that the charity can help them – and also respecting their skills,” she said. “We want to make them feel that we are another family for them.”

WCA works closely with the voluntary sector to advise on recruiting and retaining volunteers and one aspect of that work is how to say thank you. There are many things to consider, for instance any kind of gift could be seen as employment income

and benefit in kind rules might apply. Gifts volunteers could make potentially financial gains from may also affect their benefit claims or tax.

There are though national reward schemes such as Hidden Rooms, which offers volunteers unsold hotel rooms, or Charity Workers Discounts. Volunteer and Community Development Worker Sarah Pickering said: “Volunteers are the heart of our community organisations, so recognising and rewarding their contribution in a way that is comfortable for the volunteer will make their experience as enriching as possible.”

There is a wealth of information on the Volunteering in Wiltshire page on WCAs Wiltshire Together platform, a free online portal that allows users to browse and pledge interest in opportunities listed by charitable organisations across the county. The page is full of information, ideas and contacts.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer and the the volunteering support WCA can offer, contact Sarah at volunteerdev@wessexcommunityaction. org.uk. Find the Volunteering in Wiltshire page at wiltshiretogether.org.uk/wiltshirevolunteering.

Jennie Shaw with the Bobby Van

Coffee Shop vs Coworking

Coffee shop working used to be a novelty - almost a naughty delight to get out of the office, but times have changed, especially with Covid. There is not a standard set of rules of where and how to work.

The Enterprise Network was set up over 10 years ago, to provide flexible working space for businesses or those of you who just need a space. We have evolved over the years and can offer facilities such as a business address through to a large office space and meeting rooms. All of these are offered on a flexible basis and give you the ability to expand as required or equally reduce office space if needed.

Here at Castledown Enterprise Centre based between Tidworth and Ludgershall on Castledown Business Park we just might have the ideal combination. Consider being a Co-Worker – this offers you a desk, Wifi, a professional but relaxed working environment. Coffee shops do offer you space but also noisy

customers, not enough space and no private areas to have that important Zoom conversation. So why not consider being a Co-worker for only £85 a month, that’s the cost of a coffee per day! This gives you the flexibility that modern working requires – we can even offer you a meeting room if you need to meet with clients. We have refreshments, space and parking –so what are you waiting for? We are that confident the space is fabulous, so we want to offer you a FREE working Session.

Call us on 01264 848311 to book in for your free sessions and see how the space can work for you. Don’t forget we can also offer these options at our Salisbury venue based in the City Centre call 01722 567345

Downton route will close from 9am to 3pm as traffic lights are replaced

A BUSY road in Downton will be closed at certain times for almost a month during work to refurbish traffic lights and refresh road markings.

Wiltshire Council has revealed the work will take place in Lode Hill, Downton, pictured, between Monday, June 17 and Friday, July 12.

To keep workers safe, the route will be closed between 9am and 3pm from Monday to Friday, with the road open outside of those hours.

The road will also be open on election day - July 4 - to allow people to get to polling stations.

A ‘virtual footway’ will also be reinstated during the work, the council said, following a request from Downton Parish Council, with additional dropped kerbs added on the western side of the road to increase accessibility.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused by these works,

but it’s our priority to ensure that residents can travel around safely.

“Traffic lights play a vital role in managing traffic movement as well as ensuring pedestrians and cyclists can cross busy junctions safely and these improvement works reflect our commitment to road safety, as set out in our Business Plan.”

During the closure, pedestrian and cycle access to Lode Hill will be maintained where possible, he added.

signals to keep the team working on the lights safe.

And on the day of the General Election, the road will be open to enable people to vote, but it will be under temporary traffic

New Forest Folk Festival 2024

The New Forest Folk Festival is a family run music festival put on by the Curtis family and friends on their family farm at Plaitford near Romsey. Already labelled as one of the friendliest festivals, it’s small, intimate and located to the north of The New Forest National Park between Salisbury and Southampton. It is set in in lovely surroundings and the unspoilt farm settings and forest walks make it the perfect place for a relaxing long weekend with great music attracting music lovers from all over the UK and as far away as New Zealand and the USA.

The line-up includes a wide range of music from Steeleye Span, Oysterband, Feast of Fiddles, Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle, The Sandy Denny Project, Reg Meuross, Slim Chance, 3 Daft Monkeys

and many more.

As well as some of the finest folk musicians performing on the single unique rustic stage, other attractions include a delicious variety of food including Leons famous vegetarian, wood smoked pizza and carribean dishes as well as local trade and craftsfolk, and of course real ale and cider plus cooled draught beer and lager from nearby Wadworths. There are also free workshops where you can learn songwriting and playing instruments plus meditation, yoga, the study of moths, Ceilidh’s, Morris dancing, singarounds, poetry, storytelling and even a church service in the woods. There is also something for the children including small exotic animals and a story teller. Hobgoblin Music (Southampton) are supporting the festival again this year

To find out more about the road closure, log on to https://one. network/?GB135258614.

with sponsorship of the Local Artist Showcase on Thursday as well as a stall selling all kinds of musical equipment and accessories during the whole festival. Everything takes place July 3rd - 7th with adult 5 day tickets £130 and children 5-15 years £50 (under 5 free) Motorhomes, Caravans & Tents are £10 per pitch per night.

Limited amount of day tickets are also available at £50 per day where parking is free and children £25.

The site opens Wednesday lunchtime to allow for travel and setting up as well as a chance to relax for the afternoon before the entertainment begins.

For more information and to book tickets the website is www.newforestfolkfestival.co.uk

Record-breaking £31,000 raised at Salisbury Hospice Charity fun day

AFAMILY fun day fundraiser for a Salisbury cause raised a recordbreaking sum of more than £31,000.

The 10th annual Fabulous Family Fun Day, kindly sponsored by Ozweld International and in aid of the Salisbury Hospice Charity, took place at Salisbury Rugby Club on Saturday, May 11.

The event is organised in memory of Lyn Futcher, who was supported by the hospice in 2013.

And a spokesperson for the

charity said fundraising - and fun - were boosted by good weather.

“The football tournament, sponsored by Jones & Co proved as popular as ever, and the touch rugby tournament, sponsored by Adam’s Autos, was competitive from start to finish,” they said.

“The live music stage with a variety of performance from local bands and singers, a day full of entertainment for children, and a much enjoyed beer tent for the adults, added to the day.

“More upbeat family

entertainment was provided in the main performance arena, which was new for the 10th anniversary, and sponsored by Complete Construction Salisbury.

“The raffle, with a chance to win a holiday in Turkey for four people, kindly donated by Beyaz Villas, was as popular as ever.”

The charity thanked sponsors involved in the day, as well as the rugby club and other who helped make the event a success.

“Salisbury Hospice Charity is so grateful not only to

Ozweld International and our other wonderful sponsors, but also we extend a huge thank you to the fabulous committee, Salisbury Rugby Club, raffle prize donors, performers, supporters, dedicated volunteers and everyone who came along to have fun at the event, for making this day feasible and achieving such an incredible amount for the hospice,” the spokesperson added.

After the event, chair of the fundraising committee Greig Futcher said: “That’ll do! Brilliant – thank you so much everybody.”

Pictures: Spencer Mulholland

And Tamsin Murley, community fundraiser for Salisbury Hospice Charity, added: “I am once more humbled by how incredibly hard this dedicated committee of Greig, Sarah, Spencer, Sam, Clare and Jason work; they are truly remarkable.

“We are also so very grateful to Ozweld International, Salisbury Rugby Club and everyone who supported us in many different ways to put on this wonderful event.

“To raise £31,000 in one day is a remarkable achievement; every penny raised will go towards funding the vital services that the hospice provides, free of charge, to members of the community.”

Affordable bungalow craned in to site in bid for cheaper buildings

AN energy-efficient home built entirely offsite before being dropped on to a plot has been installed in Wiltshire.

The home, a two-bedroom bungalow, has been craned into a site in Durrington as part of a new push to build affordable homes using modern methods of construction.

Wiltshire Council worked with contractors Rollalong and Fisher and Dean to install the bungalow, which is now available for social rent.

The council is currently developing further sites at Corsley Heath and Rowde using this construction method.

Using the modern methods, the bungalow has been built to a high standard, achieving an energy performance rating of A.

Cllr Phil Alford, Iain Steele (Director of Residential Services, Rollalong), Gareth Flowers (Director, Fisher and Dean), Gary Walsh (Technical Advisor, Taylor Lewis), Michael Kalvis (Project Manager, Wiltshire Council), Andrew Mead (Residential Development Manager, Wiltshire Council) Cllr Phil Alford, Iain Steele (Director of Residential Services, Rollalong), Gareth Flowers (Director, Fisher and Dean), Gary Walsh (Technical Advisor, Taylor Lewis), Michael Kalvis (Project Manager, Wiltshire Council), Andrew Mead (Residential Development Manager, Wiltshire Council)

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

As well as two bedrooms, it boasts a spacious fitted kitchen, patio doors and off-road parking for two cars at the front of the property, complete with an EV charging point.

The council hopes the method will form a key part of its bid to provide 1,000 affordable homes over the next decade.

Cllr Phil Alford, cabinet member for housing, said: “This new accessible bungalow built using modern methods of construction, the first of many, is a demonstration of the innovative approach we’re taking to provide affordable housing for all Wiltshire residents who need it as part of our wider vision for 1,000

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affordable homes across the county.

“The development is part of our council house build programme, which will see over £200m invested in building new, energy efficient council homes up to 2030.

“We will also make substantial investment on improving existing council homes to ensure they achieve a minimum energy performance rating of B. This property, like many others, will exceed this goal achieving a performance rating of A.

“Affordable housing is a key aim of our business plan, and this scheme is a clear example of the work we’re doing to make that a reality.”

Salisbury International Arts Festival events

THE Salisbury International Arts Festival is continuing until June 9.

The event, which has run for

For a full programme of events running as part of the Salisbury International Arts Festival, log o to www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk/ salisbury-international-arts-

Street sellers set for city return

THE Salisbury Street Sellers event returns for 2024 next monthoffering more stalls and activities than ever.

The event, in the Market Place, is set to run from 10am until 4pm on July 14 - and every second second of the month

until October 13.

And organisers promise “more artisan and arts and crafts stalls, fun activities and food and drink vendors”.

“Enjoy an exciting theme each month featuring fantastic family activities and entertainment,” they

added with ‘summer fete’ the July theme.

“There will also be a range of stalls showcasing a great range of vintage, artisan, arts and crafts and other handmade products from Salisbury’s amazing local makers,” the spokesperson added.

Visitors can watch a host of displays and attractions at the Salisbury Summer Fair in August

All the fun of the fair on offer as charity event returns to Wilton House Estate

THE Salisbury Summer Fair returns for its 10th anniversary in August.

The event returns to the Wilton House Estate on Saturday, August 3, in aid of the Salisbury Hospice Charity.

Organisers say the day, sponsored by WBR Group, is set to offer a host of activities and a range of entertainment for all the family.

“Brace yourself for a fun-filled day packed with activities to keep the whole family entertained,” a spokesperson said.

“From amazing arena shows, demonstrations of rural crafts and skills, a vast array of stallholders, vintage vehicles, to a dog show and much, much more.

“New for 2024 is our exciting

Community Area supporting the local groups.

“Catch performances from South Wilts Falconry and The Rockets Motorcycle Children’s Display Team in the main arena.

“Meirion and his Quack Pack team will also be providing hilariously entertaining duck herding demonstrations.”

A children’s area will include attractions such as the high energy Kidz Love Fit sessions, circus tricks, rides on the Chuffley Miniature Steam Engine and playful times at Tumble Tots, they said, as well as archery.

The spokesperson added: “Be sure to check out the Music and Beer Tent, with performances from The Navy Larks, Sticky

Toffee Jazz, the Salisbury Pluckers, and the Evolution Choir.

“Visit the Hospice Village to meet the amazing Salisbury Hospice team and find out more about the admirable work they do.

“Don’t forget to drop by the Tea Tent for some refreshments and a slice of cake or two.

“Returning for its second year is The Retreat, a wellness village dedicated to your health and well-being, where you can participate in workshops, classes, talks and even enjoy Vita Skin Spa treatments.”

Tickets for the fair are available at https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ SalisburySummerFair2024, with discounts for early booking.

Get knowledge of nature at gathering in Salisbury

YOUNG people can gain knowledge of nature during a meet-up in Salisbury on Saturday, June 8.

The Salisbury Wildlife Watch Group, which is open to primary school-age children and their parents, will gather between 10am and noon at River Bourne Community Farm.

Organisers promise “nature-based craft and outdoor activities for primary schoolage children and their parents/carers”.

Adults go free, with a suggested donation of £2.50 per child.

Booking is required, by phone to Penny Fleet on 01980 611815, or by emailing salisburywatchgroup@gmail.com.

Ikea opening virtual store - but wants real workers to staff it at £13 an hour

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We require Full time Semi-Skilled Commercial Vehicle Body

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Knowledge of working with commercial vehicle bodies would be an advantage but not necessary as full training will be provided

The ability to problem solve, work to completion deadlines and within a team, while maintaining a high standard of build quality is a key attribute within the role.

Full UK Driving licence required

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Benefits:

• Good rates of pay

• Company Pension Scheme

• Travel pay, starting from 5 mile radius,

• Weekly Attendance payment of £10 for 40 hours attended

All to start after Probationary period complete

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FURNITURE giant Ikea is recruiting new staff for its latest store - in the digital world.

On June 24, the chain is launching The Co-Worker Game on virtual platform Roblox, an online community that allows players to immerse themselves in their own digital world.

The game is Ikea’s first foray into gaming, with staff now being recruited for 10 paid roles.

Successful applicants will be able to flex their skills, help customers, and get promoted to move departments, just like in the real world, the company said.

Visitors to the online shop will be able to venture to Ikea’s famous Swedish Food Market and Bistro and serve up endless amounts of meatballs, or stop over at the various showrooms and use famous products to organise the space.

“We’re excited to be the first

brand to launch paid work on Roblox to showcase how we do careers differently, bringing our unique careers philosophy to life,” said Darren Taylor, country people and culture manager, Ikea UK and Ireland.

“At IKEA, there is no set route to career progression. Our co-workers are able to change roles, switch departments, and grow in any direction they choose, both in the game or in the real world.

“There are many ways to learn and grow at IKEA, and that’s what IKEA on Roblox is all about.”

Successful applicants will be paid £13.15ph, the company said, which is the Ikea hourly rate of pay for a London co-worker.

“As a Living Wage Foundation employer, our rate of pay is aligned with the foundation’s real living wage,” a spokesperson added.

See ikea.com.

OPPORTUNITY FOR TELE-HANDLER DRIVER. In Salisbury area, for harvest, July-September. Must have driving license. Experience an advantage for loading straw bales. Tel: 07836-515276

Ikea is opening a virtual store this month - and wants staff

King Charles’ tiny pottery goat goes under the hammer

A POTTERY goat made by King Charles more than 50 years ago has sold at auction.

The item was given to Canadian Raymond Patten on his 21st birthday by his great aunt, Helen Patten, a former cook at Cambridge University.

More than five decades later, the small ceramic animal was sold by Hansons in Staffordshire for £8,500 on June 4.

Auction house owner, Charles Hanson, said: “This simple ceramics piece proved itself to be the Greatest Of All Time goats.

“People the world over are fascinated by British royalty. Though a keen artist, he is

better known for his paintings, so this was a rare opportunity. I am delighted we achieved a good result for our client.”

Raymond, 76, a retired carpenter from British Columbia, said: “My Aunt Nellie, Helen Patten, gave me the goat on my 21st birthday on June 22, 1969.

“She told me she was proud of the fact King Charles a ttended Cambridge University in the late 1960s when she worked as a cook for the president of Queen’s College.

“I believe she knew the future king on a personal basis. I have treasured the goat all my life.”

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Nominate your star NHS staff in Salisbury Hospital awards

PATIENTS and staff at Salisbury District Hospital can nominate individuals or teams for a prestigious award.

The Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust has opened nominations for its Staff Awards 2024.

The awards recognise and celebrate individuals and teams working at the Trust who go above and beyond in their dedication to providing excellent patient care and quality services.

Patients and other members of the public can nominate a staff member to receive the Patient Experience Award, for a team or individual that has made a significant impact upon improving the patient experience, either for an

individual patient or for the Trust as a whole.

Interim chief executive, Lisa Thomas, said: “The Staff Awards are a significant event in our annual calendar and are enthusiastically embraced by our local community.

“They offer the opportunity to applaud our hard-working and committed people and the efforts they make in providing compassionate care for our patients.”

Information on the criteria for the awards can be found online at https://www.salisbury. nhs.uk/media/pa5bofg2/ staff_awards_2024_criteria_ online_final_20252024.pdf.

The deadline for nominations is on Friday, July 5.

To submit a nomination,

complete the nomination form at https://www.salisbury.nhs.uk/ about-us/staff-awardsnomination-form.

The winners of this year’s

Staff Awards will be announced at a glittering awards prentation ceremony to be held in Cathedral Close on Thursday, September 5.

Cream teas in praise of NHS volunteers

VOLUNTEERS working in the NHS in Wiltshire have been praised as part of a national event.

This year, Volunteers’ Week ran between June 1 and 7, the 40th anniversary of the celebration.

And the NHS in the county has taken the opportunity to thank those who give their time to the service.

“We are celebrating our amazing team of volunteers, thanking them for the valuable service they provide and the positive difference they make to our patients and staff,” a spokesperson said.

“We have around 150 people

ranging from 16 to 90 years of age, who regularly volunteer across our community hospitals in Wiltshire.”

Throughout the week, Wiltshire Health and Care (WHC) hosted afternoon teas for volunteers, celebrating their achievements.

WHC volunteer co-ordinator, Suzanne Bennett, said: “I thoroughly enjoy working with our volunteers and Volunteers’ Week provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate and recognise them.

“Volunteering can help in gaining new skills and experience as well as giving a confidence boost.

“Helping others has been shown to improve volunteers’ wellbeing too.”

Feedback from volunteers with WHC said:

“I really enjoy my role working with patients –gardening, helping with patient activities and seeing their faces light up and enjoying our companionship. I can also see how it helps the staff too.”

“I gained valuable experience of the NHS by volunteering – it helped me with my confidence in applying for a job. I am proud to say I now work for the

NHS.”

“Volunteering gave me a purpose in life by offering to help others, it helped my wellbeing too by keeping positive and active.”

People are being encouraged to give their spare time to the NHS for two to three hours a week, to support the community, be part of a team and make new friends.

For more information, you can email whc.volunteers@nhs. net, or call 01985 220779 or 07810 836065.

Of geraniums and pelargoniums...

by Sally Gregson

“WHEN is a geranium not a geranium? When it’s a pelargonium”. So runs the old quip. And it is true to say that this 18th century muddle over botanical naming still causes confusion today.

When pelargoniums started to arrive from South Africa in the early 18th century it was proposed that they be given a different generic name from geranium. Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, however thought different, and classified them both as ‘Geraniums’. Throughout the following century or so many more pelargonium species were introduced and new startling colours were bred into the flowers and foliage.

Pelargoniums were the plants of

by Sally Gregson

JUNE is perhaps the month when every gardener would like everything to pause – the sun is hot, the garden is at a high point and labour’s fruits are visible.

All the spring planting has melded together to make a whole, the weeds are still suppressed by mulch, and rows of young vegetables are ready for the picking. In the borders, the Oriental poppies are sloughing off their bristly carapaces and unfolding their petals.

However, it can sometimes be difficult to know how to hide their remains once that flowering is over and the plant is cut down. In the past it was recommended to plant a later flowering perennial in the middle of a group of three oriental poppies, but in practice this presents a few problems. Quite often all that poppy foliage hid huge slugs and snails that would chomp their wicked way through the piggy in the middle, or, after two or three years, the poppies themselves would elbow the other plant out altogether. It is probably better to plant

the moment and were fixed in people’s minds as ‘geraniums’. There was little the botanists could do about separating the genera. Popular opinion had

Oriental poppies singly, alongside something equally bossy, such as Euphorbia griffithii ‘Fireglow’ that will interweave and flower at the same time, or the later flowering Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’. Or try associating them with grasses – a nostalgic echo of poppystrewn cornfields.

If we have a modicum of rain, now is a good time to propagate oriental poppies.

With a garden fork, lift the whole clump, young leaves and all. Separate out the different shoots and cut back their top growth by a half. Replant a sizeable chunk of the remaining poppy. It will be dying back anyway during the end of the summer.

Insert the divisions into individual pots of well-drained potting compost, cover the tops with a layer of grit and water them. Label each pot with the name and date for future information.

Then place the pots under the greenhouse bench, or in a cold frame, and keep them watered. They should have rooted within a few weeks and be ready to plant out by next spring.

won. At least for a century or two.

In the meantime, our native cranesbill – Geranium pratense – grew with abandon along the roadside verges throughout June and July, and its soft blue flowers once inhabited the old meadows alongside cowslips, vetch and ladies bedstraw. The Elizabethan herbalist, John Gerard, and in the 17th century, John Parkinson, both grew the white form of G. pratense and the delightfully splashed and striped G. pratense ‘Striatum’. And they are widely naturalised in the United States where they were undoubtedly taken by the early colonists.

The ‘bloody cranesbill’, G.sanguineum with its low mounds of bright magenta flowers, was commonly used as

a wound herb to staunch the flow of blood from “ruptures or burstings”.

Over the centuries other geranium species have been introduced from North America, the Himalayas, Armenia and the Caucasus, and all have been crossed, bred and selected to provide 21st century gardeners with increasing numbers of geranium cultivars – amenable plants that cover the ground with good foliage and lots of flower.

But it’s Geranium ‘Rozanne’, with its non-stop, white-hearted soft blue flowers that has won modern gardeners’ hearts. In 2013 the Royal Horticultural Society named it as the ‘Plant of the Century’, for its easy, floriferous habit. It’s a winner in any garden.

Geranium spinners

Homes & Garden

Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme

by Sally Gregson

THE days of barbecues are upon us. What could be nicer than eating outdoors on a warm summer evening watching the setting sun as the bats start to come out. They are attracted by movement, so throwing a stick up in the air will bring them closer, the better to identify them.

While the barbecue coals are heating, chop some leaves of thyme, sage and rosemary and throw them on the coals to perfume and flavour the meat and vegetables as they cook. Growing herbs close to the barbecue area would be ideal, but they do need a sunny, well-drained spot. If there’s no room near at hand, pots and containers of free-draining compost could be planted up with parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme, to coin a phrase. Parsley in particular is better if it has been sown in the warmth

of late April and May and encouraged to grow on in a pot. These ‘herbs’, like so many, were brought to this country by the Romans, not just for flavouring their dishes, but for medicinal use. Sage in particular was especially valued

In the 13th century the world experienced a volcanic winter following the eruption of Samalas in Indonesia. The resulting famine affected the whole world, but on a more parochial level, the medieval monasteries in Britain must have suffered many cases of malnutrition and starvation as the crops failed everywhere. The monks’ herb gardens must have struggled to produce enough medicines to treat everyone, and in particular their rosemary bushes all appear to have been lost.

as a panacea. But it was not just eaten or made into ‘tisanes’, it was burned and the smoking dish placed in a sick-room. The patient gained relief from their symptoms by breathing in the fumes of burning sage.

Rosemary needed to be re-introduced years later. It was documented in 14th century herbals as a ‘new’ plant of great use, as if it had never been grown in the UK before. The medieval monks had brought back new plants from the continent for us to grow, and continue to grow, in our English gardens.

Parsley is better if it has been sown in late April and May

PHOTO: ArtAc-tiveArt/Pixabay

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Sudoku 3D puzzle

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

7 Table for writing in administrative department (6)

8 Janitor at work, one overlooked as hard worker? (6)

9 Smell, it’s said, in European river (4)

10 Most tiny shopping area in south east street (8)

Down

1 Dreary Greek character with Northern European (7)

2 Tolerate hair on face largely (4)

3 Lime’s squeezed over front of unappetizing breakfast food (6)

4 Layers manufactured at arts (6)

5 Vile drama showing dishonest dealing (4,4)

11 Sort that’s not wanted ensured bail curiously (11)

14 Ingredient in baking items ruled spongy possibly (6,5)

18 Doctor around city gets English award in present time? (8)

19 Clan ready to accept power (4)

20 Maintain persistently organized sit-ins (6)

21 Lorry carrying carbon that’s very cold (6)

Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

6 Light wood turning up a flat stone (5)

12 Cite rose that’s cultivated as mysterious

13 One to blame pair on island in sect (7)

15 Consider European book in appointed time

16 Northern manor is renovated for one in royal house? (6)

17 Writer nearly ignoring aristocrat? A small bit (5)

19 Dismiss bed (4)

AVANT GARDE

Servicing - MOT Class 4 & 7 - Tyres - Four - Wheel Laser Alignment - ADAS Calibrations - BrakesAir Conditioning - Diagnostics - Welding - ExhaustsBatteries - Suspension - Clutches

Four- Wheel Laser Alignment

We use the latest specialist equipment to accurately check the front and rear wheels of your vehicle. If the alignment is not set correctly it will cause excessive wear to your tyres, steering and suspension componenents. To prevent high repair costs, or tyre replacement from misaligned wheels you could potentially save yourself money by checking the alignment.

and suspension components. To prevent high repair costs, or tyre replacement from misaligned wheels you could poten�ally save yourself money by checking the alignment.

Battery ‘passport’ plan for electric cars

ELECTRIC vehicles (EVs) in the UK will require a ‘battery passport’ from 2027.

The move will impact vehicles sold in the UK, despite leaving the European Union (EU).

Under the new rule, all EVs will need to be able to prove the origins of the raw material they contain, how much of the battery and its components are recycled, and their ‘lifecycle carbon footprint’.

The details included on the passport, contain information on the production process, as well as how the vehicle and its parts were transported.

This is part of the wider plan by the European Parliament to ban the sale of new internal combustion engines by 2035.

According to EU officials,

from February 1, 2027, all EV batteries over 2kWh sold will require a unique battery passport, which can be found using a QR code on the battery itself.

The responsibility to display the correct information will be with the manufacturers.

The EU Battery Regulation is asking for ‘mandatory supply chain due diligence addressing the social and environmental risks related to extracting, processing, and trading raw materials for battery manufacturing purposes’.

Battery passports will require information from mining and refining companies, recycling firms, as well as the producers of batteries and the components used within them.

With two and a half years to go until the requirement becomes law within the EU, Government officials are working with the manufacturers to prepare.

Puzzle solutions

Edition 43

Each passport document will

include a unique identification number and the information on the make, model, and details on the vehicle it is used in.

All this information will be needed to carry out repairs and replacements.

Details on the passport will also be available to the general public, from the EU, as well as regulatory bodies that monitor the EV industry, and also end-of-life processors who dispose of the batteries that are no longer in use.

EAsian hornets survived the UK winter, analysis shows: Here’s what to do if you find one...

VIDENCE has been discovered confirming Asian hornets survived the UK winter.

Genetic analysis by Fera Science Ltd on samples collected by APHA’s National Bee Unit found three Asian hornet queens trapped last month in Sussex are the offspring of a nest that was destroyed in November 2023. However, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the discovery is “not considered to be strong evidence of an established population”.

Defra said that for a species to be considered as ‘established’, there should be “evidence of a reproducing population having been present in the wild for a significant number of generations and which is considered to be viable in the long term without any human intervention”.

The department said 2023 saw a record number of Asian hornets found in the UK.

Last month, the UK’s chief plant health officer, Professor Nicola Spence, issued a warning urging UK beekeepers and the public to be increasingly

vigilant to the presence of Asian hornet and report any sightings.

Last year, the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s National Bee Unit attended every credible sighting, locating and destroying 72 nests in 56 locations, with the majority of nests found in Kent.

The National Bee Unit continues to stand ready to respond quickly and effectively to any further possible sightings.

What to do if you spot an Asian hornet

If you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet you should

report it using the iPhone and Android app ‘Asian Hornet Watch’, or by using Defra’s online report form (https://risc. brc.ac.uk/alert. php?species=asian_hornet). People can also email alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk and should include a photograph if possible.

Defra said it is important to take care not to approach or disturb a nest. Asian hornets are not generally aggressive towards people but an exception to this is when they perceive a threat to their nest, they added.

Farming has been hit hard by the second wettest six months on record

NFU Combinable Crops Board lays out agenda for the next two years

THE NFU Combinable Crops Board has started another two-year term.

Here its chair, Jamie Burrows, shares the board’s updated ambitions...

“I am really pleased, in fact humbled, to be elected as chair of the NFU Crops Board. We have a challenging two years ahead of us; our sector faces significant hurdles, but as an industry we are world leading in terms of our quality, innovation, and resilience.

I am especially pleased to recognise the strength of our board, bringing together myriad perspectives, experiences and expertise, all with a common goal – to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability across our farming communities.

As a board we are here to promote these qualities by demonstrating the value of our industry and the work of you, our members.

Through concerted efforts and strategic initiatives, we will work towards the enhancement of productivity, optimisation of land use, fostering fairness across the supply chain, and propelling advancements in plant health, and research and development.

It is our ambition to support the creation of a future where sustainable agriculture not only thrives, but fosters the building of resilient and sustainable farming businesses.

During the next two years, the NFU Combinable Crops Board will be busy working to support and promote the industry.

Alongside the key priorities, we will also be working to focus on new breeding techniques and seed, niche crops, air quality, soil health, waste management, skills and training, health and safety and

the promotion of NFU campaigns.

In light of the challenges facing the sector, including political uncertainty, financial hardship and the ever-growing need to build resilience into farming businesses, we will be working across a targeted programme of engagement with policymakers, ministers, MPs and stakeholders.

Together we can drive positive change within our industry.

The NFU Crops Board’s vision is for a profitable, sustainable, and globally competitive sector within a marketplace that has fairness and transparency at its core.

Ambitions towards maintaining or enhancing profitability on combinable crops farms across England and Wales will run throughout all policy and lobbying activities.

1. Fairness in the supply chain

Combinable Crops Board priorities – fairness in the

supply chain

Develop a supply chain fairness strategy, to include options for legislative interventions through the Agriculture Act, supply chain actions, data sharing, and upskilling members to better understand and negotiate contracts.

Read board member Matt Culley’s deep dive into how the board will be supporting members with fairness in the supply chain.

2. Combinable Crops Board strategy

Develop a sector strategy which sets out the key policy asks in the run up to the general election, along with a targeted programme of engagement with policy makers, ministers, MPs, and stakeholders pre and post election.

3. Tax, budget and productivity measures

Investigate opportunities for measures that will support increased productivity on farm, including through existing or

new funding mechanisms such as tax opportunities, crop insurance.

4. Land use

Continue to review the existing SFI standards and regularly engage with Defra to offer feedback and to ensure all standards are fit for purpose.

Ensure policies relating to Biodiversity Net Gain, net zero and water are fit for purpose and support productive and profitable farm businesses.

5. Plant health

Ensure government policies, including the forthcoming National Action Plan, deliver sustainable plant health solutions that enable UK farmers and growers to produce crops that meet the needs of consumers, the environment and profitable farming businesses.

6. Research and development

Establish core aims and asks for applied R&D within the arable sector and ensure these are embedded within the priorities of funding providers and AHDB.

Chair of the Combinable Crops Board, Jamie Burrows

Picture: NFU

Six-bedroom country house with swimming pool and small lake...

THE Merrie Thought is a handsome early 20th Century country home with amazing uninterrupted views of the Avon Valley west towards Cranborne Chase.

It was originally built around 1900 for Miss Christine Hulse of Breamore, on land belonging to the Breamore family estate, in an Arts and Crafts style. Since then, it has undergone several refurbishments and significant modernisation, yet retains all the elegant properties and features of a period home of its era, including

a number of working fireplaces, beautiful tall ceilings, a cellar and attic rooms.

The house, with six bedrooms, and the adjacent detached cottage offer extensive accommodation amounting to more than 9,000 square feet in total.

In addition, there are extensive outbuildings, which include garaging for at least five cars, various garden buildings and workshops, as well as a swimming pool, a small lake, terracing and lawns, woodland, and paddocks.

The total area of the house and grounds amounts to around 18 acres.

PRICE: £4,300,000; LOCATION: Stuckton, Fordingbridge; AGENT: Spencers, Ringwood; CONTACT: 0330 038 9345

Election will not change property plans, say buyers and sellers, according to new agent survey

ALMOST all people planning to sell or buy a home in the coming weeks say the upcoming general election will not change their plans.

After a survey of thousands of people, property website Rightmove said 95% told them the election would not alter their plans.

Tim Bannister, from Rightmove, said: “With the date now set for a summer general election, we anticipate that housing market activity will remain steady in the lead-up to

the election based on previous patterns.

“This is further supported by the current attitude among home-movers, with the majority indicating that the election will not affect their plans.

“Over the past four years, home-movers have faced numerous challenges, including a global pandemic, a shortage of housing supply, and rapidly changing prices.

“For many, 2024 is finally the year to make their move, and they’re determined to proceed with their plans to

secure their next home.”

Meanwhile, the firm said previous general elections had led to a boost in the property market.

In 2015, demand from buyers was consistent leading up to the election, which was held in May, before demand then increased the following month - 18% higher than the year before.

And in 2019, demand remained stable in the months prior, and saw an annual increase of 13% in the December election month.

That was followed by an annual increase in buyer demand of 14% in January 2020.

Tim added: “Previous elections would indicate we may be set for a particularly strong summer once the election is over, especially if interest rates start to fall. However, every election is different, and it would depend on whether any significant housing policies are also introduced, so we’ll need to wait and see what happens to have a better view of activity for the rest of the year.”