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November 2, 2026

Edition 106

Salisbury & Avon Gazette www.salisburyandavon.co.uk

'PLEASE STOP' PLEA FOR BIKERS TO PROTECT WOODLAND FULL Safety fears as mountain bikers build unauthorised jumps and STORY: PAGE 5 tracks in woods, says council

REMEMBRANCE All you need to know about events in Salisbury

STORY: PAGE 2

BRIDGE PLAN

Landmark A36 crossing will be replaced in £23m plan

STORY: PAGE 4

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Salisbury runner takes on extreme trek for hospice cause

STORY: PAGE 12

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Salisbury ready to remember

ETAILS of Salisbury’s Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day events have been confirmed. The city will unite to mark Remembrance Sunday on November 8, followed by Armistice Day on November 11, with residents invited to commemorations paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Ceremonies will be led by the Salisbury Branch of the Royal British Legion, with support from Salisbury City Council and St Thomas’s Church. A parade is planned for Remembrance Sunday, with road closures in place, while a short service will take place to mark Armistice Day. Remembrance Day events in Salisbury Sunday, November 8: A parade will leave Avon Approach at around 10.30am and march to Guildhall Square. Participants will gather at the War Memorial at 10.50am for a short ceremony. A two-minute silence

will be observed at 11am, followed by prayers. At 11.30am, the parade will continue along New Canal, where the Deputy Lord Lieutenant Hon Mrs Primrose Campbell, and the Right Worshipful the Mayor of the City of Salisbury, Cllr Jenny Bolwell, will take the salute. The parade will then continue to St Thomas’s Church for the Remembrance Sunday service, which begins at around 11.40am. After the service, the Civic Party will return to Salisbury Guildhall via St Thomas’s Square. Remembrance Day road closures and travel in Salisbury Blue Boar Row, New Canal and other roads along the route will be closed to traffic between around 10.30am to 11.45am and from 12.15pm to 1.30pm. Diversions will be in place, with road closures possibly affecting some bus services. Passengers should check the Salisbury Reds website before travelling.

EDITORIAL

Armistice Day events in Salisbury Wednesday, November 11: A short ceremony will take place in Guildhall Square at 11am to mark Armistice Day. Everyone is welcome to attend. Cllr Jenny Bolwell, Mayor of Salisbury, said: “Remembrance and Armistice services give us an opportunity to come together as a community, honour the courage and sacrifice of all those who served, and remember those who never returned. “We must ensure their legacy lives on, and we are proud to work alongside the RBL in organising these important ceremonies for our city.” Chris Child, Salisbury branch RBL president, added: “Remembrance Sunday is where we all come together to remember those military and civilian service personnel who died during both World Wars and other wars since. “It is, unsurprisingly, the most important event in the Royal British Legion calendar.

“Salisbury has had a long association with the Armed Forces and like every town and village in the UK and Commonwealth, many of its own citizens went off to war; some did not return. The least we can all do is pause for a few minutes each year and reflect on the sacrifices they made for our benefit. “Every year, our Remembrance Sunday service in Salisbury has gone from strength to strength; more people now attend than ever before. It really is fantastic to see how many people in Salisbury appreciate how important it is to remember those who have served in their country’s armed forces and especially those who did not come back.”

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Men's Shed moves to a new home MEMBERS of the Ringwood Men’s Shed group have a new home – thanks to the town council. The group, which invites people to get together to work on projects and learn new skills, has moved in to the former cricket pavilion at Carvers recreation Ground. It came after the Men’s Shed approached RTC following a search for new premises, with the authority agreeing to make the former pavilion available under a new lease. “The pavilion has a long association with recreation and community life in Ringwood, and its new use represents another chapter in that history,” an RTC spokesperson said. Ringwood Men’s Shed brings people together through practical activities, shared projects and opportunities to learn new skills, as well as providing a welcoming

Wood Burning Stoves Installed

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The mayor and Men's Shed representatives at the signing of the lease

environment where members can meet, develop friendships and enjoy the benefits of being part of a supportive community. RTC said the group would be able to improve and adapt the building over time, helping it to develop its activities and continue making a positive contribution to the town. Cllr Andy Briers, chair of

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RTC’s Recreation, Leisure and Open Spaces Committee, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Ringwood Men’s Shed to help them establish a new home at Carvers Recreation Ground. As a council, we want to make the best possible use of our community facilities, and this is a good example of how working with local

organisations can help us achieve that. “The Men’s Shed provides a valuable service to the town, bringing people together, sharing skills and helping to build friendships. Having a dedicated space will allow the group to develop its activities and make improvements to the building over time. “We wish everyone involved every success and look forward to seeing the Men’s Shed thrive in its new home.” The lease was recently formally signed with the mayor, deputy mayor and town clerk joining Men’s Shed members for the occasion. Ringwood Men’s Shed will initially open Monday: 10am – 1pm, Wednesday: 10am – 1pm and Friday: 10am – 1pm. n For information, visit the group’s website at ringwoodmensshed.co.uk.

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A36 footbridge WILL be replaced

BUSY Salisbury footbridge – which was set to be removed as part of a £23 million package of roadworks – will now be replaced. Previously, National Highways said the Wyndham Road footbridge over the A36 in the city centre was to be removed as part of an improvement package for the route. However, now the company, which is responsible for motorways and major A roads across the country, has announced the bridge will be replaced. The decision came after National Highways monitored usage of the bridge and liaised with city councillors and community groups. It will now be replaced, along with the Victoria Road footbridge, as part of the project. Chris Hilldrup, National Highways route manager, said: “We do understand the importance of the footbridge as an A36 crossing point, and after listening to the community’s feedback, we’ve looked again at

The Wyndham Road footbridge is set to be replaced

all options and will now be upgrading both structures. “Installing more modern bridges will improve accessibility in those locations, and our next step is to go into detailed design to provide the best solutions to achieve that.” Work is set to be carried out in 2028 and 2029 with the A36 Corridor work aimed at easing traffic and improving safety. As well as the bridges being replaced, the scheme will see new, adaptive traffic signals installed at the Castle, St Mark’s and St Paul’s roundabouts, the

Picture: Google

road resurfaced and the pedestrian crossing at Southampton Road upgraded. Work to replace 32-year-old roundabout signals is set to be finished in the next few weeks, being switched on this Wednesday (October 22), before new ‘adaptive’ signals will come into use following the installation of traffic detectors next month, the roads management firm said. Elsewhere, National Highways will also hold two public information events in November to announce

proposals for £25m of improvements to the A36 Southampton Road – bringing the total road investment in Salisbury to around £50m over the next four years. Extra lanes will be installed to improve traffic flows at the College and Bourne Way roundabouts, along with underpass and pathway enhancements and more facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. Residents are being urged to attend the events to give feedback on the proposals.

Care home lands accolade for veterans' support A SALISBURY care home has been recognised for the support it offers veterans. Laverstock Care Centre achieved Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) accreditation last August and has now successfully completed the VFF Continuous Improvement review after just over a year. The VFF, a collaboration between the Royal British Legion, Royal Star & Garter and the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance, offers guidance to care providers on how best to give the right support to the thousands of veterans living in care homes across England. Laverstock Care Centre was one of the first from the Caring Homes group to be awarded VFF status and home manager, Erin O’Shea, said: “We were delighted to gain our Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) accreditation and a year on, we are proud to be improving, developing and

continuing to offer tailored support to our veteran residents. “We’ve been building relationships with local veterans’ groups, including the Salisbury branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), and our customer relations manager, Emma, and clinical lead, Cally, recently attended their monthly meeting. We then invited RBL committee members Denise and Susan to join us at Laverstock for ‘Fish & Chips Friday’.” Cally is the wife of a veteran and a

member of the Salisbury and Wilton branch of the Royal Artillery Association and represents Laverstock at their meetings. The care centre has been a hive of industry in recent months, with three poppy displays – themed Military Weddings, Florence Nightingale and their own version of the Cenotaph – created for entry into the Care Home Remembrance Display competition, along with poppy wreaths made by residents, with judging taking place on Friday (October 23). Meanwhile, the team are selling poppies at the care home this month, and on October 29 and November 3, team members and residents will be supporting the RBL by manning their poppy sales table at a local Tesco Extra store from 2pm to 4pm. Looking further ahead, Laverstock will be hosting a special Veterans Christmas Carvery on December 3.

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Some of the jumps in the woods

Unauthorised jumps

OUNTAIN bikers are being urged not to construct their own jumps and tracks in woods in Salisbury – because they could put people at risk. Salisbury City Council said a number of “unauthorised mountain bike ramps, jumps and tracks” had appeared at Chiselbury Grove Woodland, off Old Blandford Road. And they urged people to stop the constructions – as they could pose a risk to them and to others using the woodland. “The woodland is a popular place for young people to explore, play and ride bikes, and mountain biking is a fantastic outdoor activity for young people and adults, but these structures are creating serious safety and environmental concerns,” an SCC spokesperson said. “The structures have often been placed on steep slopes, without any formal safety assessments. “Even if those who build these structures have the skills to use them safely, others may not, and dog walkers, runners and other visitors could unexpectedly cross a cyclist’s path. Unlike an official track, the routes are not risk-assessed, clearly marked or designed for emergency access, so an accident could cause serious injury and be difficult for emergency services to reach.” They said trees had also “repeatedly been cut down without permission” to provide materials for the constructions,

which was “damaging the woodland and its natural habitat”. “Bringing bladed tools into a public space for this purpose creates an additional concern,” the spokesperson said. The city council, which manages the woodland and has removed ramps and jumps, appealed to those responsible to make contact so the legal position and risks can be explained. “The substantial construction of some of these structures suggests that adults may also be involved. We ask everyone involved, whether directly or indirectly, to stop building these unauthorised features. “The woodland already has natural features and obstacles that riders can enjoy responsibly. However, unauthorised construction and damage to trees cannot continue. “The council must keep this shared public space safe and accessible for everyone, and no activity should put other visitors at risk or harm the natural environment. “Please help us protect Chiselbury Grove Woodland. If you are building these structures, please stop. “If you are a parent or guardian, please talk to young people about the risks and the importance of respecting this shared space. "Let’s keep the woodland a safe, welcoming and natural place for the whole community to enjoy.”

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Vape shop closed over illegal tobacco finds and sales

SALISBURY vape shop has closed for three months after repeated tobacco offences. Wiltshire Council has secured a Closure Order from Salisbury Magistrates' Court following a hearing on October 23 for Greenland, at 106 Fisherton Street. It came after the council's Trading Standards officers gave evidence of the store repeatedly being used to store and sell illicit tobacco. Now, only named residents and authorised individuals are permitted to enter the premises, with anyone else entering without authorisation potentially committing a criminal offence and could face imprisonment and/or a fine. The order came after, on September 29, Trading Standards officers and Wiltshire Police, alongside a speciallytrained tobacco detection dog, carried out a search of the premises. Concealed stocks of illegal tobacco products, including cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco that failed to comply

with UK legislation, were discovered, the court was told. Despite significant enforcement action and product seizures, offending continued and further illegal sales were identified in October 2026, the officers said. Then, investigations began earlier this year after intelligence linked the premises to individuals suspected of involvement in the illicit tobacco trade. "During inspections and test purchase operations carried out between July and October, officers identified and seized suspected counterfeit cigarettes, duty-evaded tobacco and prohibited shisha products," a council spokesperson said. "A Closure Notice was served on the premises on October 21 before the council successfully applied for a Closure Order two days later. "The court granted the Closure Order, which will remain in force for three months, after hearing that previous enforcement action had failed to prevent criminal activity from continuing at the

Greenland has been closed for three months

premises and that closure was necessary to protect the public and prevent further offending." Cllr Paul Sample, cabinet member for public protection, said: "The illegal tobacco trade harms legitimate businesses, reduces vital tax revenue and is often linked to wider criminal activity. "Businesses that choose to ignore the law and profit from the sale of illegal tobacco should be in no doubt that we will take robust enforcement action. "Despite repeated interventions and product seizures, illegal tobacco continued to be sold from these premises, making this Closure

Order necessary. "We remain committed to protecting consumers, supporting honest local businesses and disrupting the illicit tobacco trade across Wiltshire." Shoppers are warned illegal tobacco products are often sold at significantly lower prices than legitimate products because no duty has been paid, and may present additional safety risks, including the absence of recognised safety standards and required product information. n Anyone with information about the sale of illegal tobacco products can report it confidentially via www.tssw.org. uk/work-areas/report-it.

Youngsters' achievements celebrated THE achievements of young people living in care – or with care experience – were celebrated at an awards ceremony last week. Stories of determination, courage and achievement took centre stage at Wiltshire Council’s annual Star Awards event on Thursday, October 22. The Civic Centre in Trowbridge was the venue for the event, which saw a host of youngsters recognised for their “outstanding accomplishments”. "The awards brought together young people, carers, families, social workers, personal

advisers, councillors and partners for an evening celebrating success and the many ways young people are thriving in education, employment, sport, the arts and their local communities,” a council spokesperson said.

“During the evening, young people were recognised for overcoming challenges, achieving educational milestones, developing greater independence, supporting their peers, volunteering and pursuing their ambitions. “Young people also took to the stage to perform, showcasing their skills and helping make the event a memorable occasion for everyone attending.” Young people were nominated by family, foster carers, teachers, social workers,

personal advisers and Virtual School staff, with awards presented across three categories in three age groups; primary, secondary and Post 16. Smashed It! – recognising those who have overcome significant challenges or achieved something remarkable Future Pioneers! – celebrating success in education, employment, sport, arts and personal development Taking Part! – honouring young people who have made a positive difference to others through volunteering, leadership or community involvement.

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Fresh appeal in woods murder case

OLICE are appealing for information about two men seen acting suspiciously near the Ludgershall woods where the body of Graham Pennycook was found. The 64-year-old was found in woods at Perham Down, near the polo field, after walking his dog on Thursday, September 24, and failed to return home. Following the outcome of a post-mortem, a murder investigation was launched with a cordon put in place at the scene to enable extensive search and forensic enquiries to be carried out. Now, detectives are appealing for anyone who was in the area near to the polo field, or the woods, at Perham Down between 9am and 6pm on September 24 and saw two men acting in a suspicious manner to get in touch. Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker said: “We are now four weeks on from Graham’s

murder but our commitment to establishing exactly what happened to him and who is responsible remains absolute and our investigation continues. “I am really keen to hear from anyone who witnessed two males that looked out of place, or were acting suspiciously, in the woods on the morning of the

unusual place? I am grateful for the engagement and support from the community but I believe there are people who were in, or close to, Perham Down that have not yet come forward and I would urge you to engage with our investigation. “We know the area is a popular place to walk your dog, ride your bike or undertake other forms of exercise and September 24 was no different. “If you were there that day, and haven’t yet done so, please contact us as you may hold vital information. If you know who is responsible, you can help us seek justice for Graham’s murder.” n Any with information which could assist the investigation should contact Wiltshire Police on 101, or leave information on a dedicated website. They can also leave information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

24th September, especially between 10am and 11am. “Did you see someone who looked out of place or was acting suspiciously? Have you seen this person, or these people, before? Do you know their name? Did you see any vehicles that were driving erratically or appeared in an

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Have your say over future of Salisbury nature reserve People can find out more - and have their say - over the Broken Bridges Nature Reserve

EOPLE can discover a hidden Salisbury gem – and help shape its future – at a public meeting next month. On November 14, residents are invited to have their say over changes to improve access to the Broken Bridges Nature Reserve. Footpath improvements, meadow restoration and community involvement are on the agenda and the Broken Bridges charity behind the reserve is inviting local people to find out more at a meeting on Saturday, November 14, from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Harnham Parish Hall. Coffee will be available from the Harnham Coffee and Chat team from 10am. “Through a series of presentations, the meeting will introduce the team behind Broken Bridges and explain the Reserve’s management plan as well as outline plans to improve the public footpath and the accessibility through this Green Corridor,” a spokesperson said.

There will also be opportunities to discover how local people can get involved, they went on. “The event comes at an exciting time for the charity. Salisbury City Council’s Communities Committee has approved the initial stages of its application for funding to improve the surface of the public footpath running from Bemerton to Harnham,” the spokesperson added. “Some improvements have already been made with support from a Ramblers Association grant, but there is more work to do to make the route accessible to a wider range of the public, including those using wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. “The charity hopes that further investment will help open up this special natural space to more people, while retaining its rural character and protecting its wildlife.” Broken Bridges features rivers, meadows and woodland,

which the charity said provides “a valuable green corridor for wildlife and a place for people to enjoy nature, local history and the outdoors”. Alongside improving accessibility, the charity is working to restore the reserve’s biodiversity, with a contractor helping the team cut the meadows and remove the hay as a way of restoring their ecological value and reestablishing grazing. “Volunteers have also been tackling invasive growth by digging out hemlock waterdropwort by hand in South Meadow, while continuing traditional woodland management work, including coppicing and laying hazel along the old bank earthwork beside Gypsy Lane,” the spokesperson said. “Other activities include removing old, barbed wire, preparing hazel stakes and recording wildlife observations, including fungi, through the iNaturalist platform.”

The November 14 is a chance for residents to learn more about the charity’s plans, ask questions and explore ways to contribute, through volunteering, sharing knowledge, supporting fundraising or simply spreading the word. Anne Trevett, a charity trustee, said: “Broken Bridges is a wonderful natural asset for Salisbury. We’re making real progress, but we want local people to feel part of its future. “Improving access for everyone and restoring the meadows go hand in hand with protecting the character and wildlife that make this place so special. "We’d love people to come along on November 14, find out what we’re doing and help us take the next steps." n For more about Broken Bridges Nature Reserve, its activities and opportunities to get involved, visit mybrokenbridges.org.uk.

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Salisbury shows support for RNLI

ENEROUS Salisbury shoppers raised more than £2,500 for the RNLI during a recent city centre collection. The collection, on October 10, was also a relaunch for the branch, which has been renamed RNLI South Wiltshire to reflect its larger geographical area – stretching from Andover in the east to Shaftesbury in the west. And the public showed their support by putting their hands in their pockets, raising a total of £2,650 on the day. “This is one of the largest street collections that the branch has ever held and once again demonstrates the generosity of the people of Salisbury,” a spokesperson said. The event was part of the nationwide Lifeboat Saturday event to commemorate the first public street collection of any charity which took place in Manchester in October 1891. It came after the charity endured numerous negative

Long-service awards were handed out during the collection in Salisbury - where more than £2,500 was raised for the RNLI

protests – including threats to volunteers, staff and premises – in September, with right-wing activists targeting the RNLI for its work rescuing people in the English Channel. “The RNLI has benefited greatly from a huge increase in donations following the difficult scenes in Portsmouth in

September,” a spokesperson added. “People now understand more than ever that the RNLI will always respond to the Coastguard’s requests to save lives at sea, whatever the circumstances of the rescue. “We received many expressions of support and

thanks from members of the public during the day.” Chief fundraising and communications officer of the RNLI, Jayne George, was in Salisbury on October 10 and presented long-service medals to three of the branch’s volunteers; Andy Hall, Julie Wilkins and Tony Lunt, for 40, 30 and 10 years’ service respectively. The newly-renamed branch is a merger of the Salisbury, Wilton & District and Stonehenge RNLI groups. Chair of the enlarged branch, Matthew Sykes, has welcomed the volunteers from Stonehenge and says the enlarged Collection Crew will help the RNLI raise even more donations across South Wiltshire. He said the charity is still seeking volunteers who can give a few hours of their time every few months. Anybody interested in getting involved should contact the branch by email to RNLISouthWilts@gmail.com.

Bike thefts, vehicle breaks and more down in recent months BIKE thefts, vehicle break-ins and non-dwelling burglaries fell across the New Forest between June and September, according to new figures. New figures show that between June and September 2026 reported offences were down by 166 compared to the same period in 2024, with an average drop of 45%. Hampshire Police said the data showed: n Shed and garage burglary fell from 66 to 26 recorded offences (-60%). n Theft from motor vehicles fell from 205 to 94 recorded offences (-54%). n Bicycle theft fell from 72 to 57 recorded offences (-20%). The figures came after the summer crime prevention campaign, Operation Forestguard, which encouraged

tourists and residents to take action and protect their possessions from thieves. Throughout the peak tourist season, and when most people were spending more time outdoors, officers took part in high-visibility patrols at venues including campsites and carparks, as well as carrying out free bicycle registering and marking events, sharing crime prevention advice and materials. Fuel pump adverts and a social media campaign helped to spread awareness of key messages to bicycle owners, including ‘Love It? Lock It.’, ‘Take Your Items With You’ to drivers and passengers, and ‘Lock Everything Securely’ to residents with outbuildings. The police also worked alongside New Forest District Council, Forestry England, Camping in the New Forest, the

New Forest National Park Authority, and British Transport Police. And the operation brought results, with two men jailed in September 2026, for a combined 11 years and five months after pleading guilty to offences after a burglary and vehicle-related theft series between June 2025 and January 2026 in the New Forest. A total of more than £100,000 worth of property was reported stolen from multiple victims. Now, residents are being encouraged to continue following crime prevention advice to keep their property secure and to attend free property marking sessions to deter thieves and to make it easier to return items to their owners if they’re stolen. Chief Inspector Scott

Johnson, New Forest District Commander, said: “It’s very reassuring and fantastic to see the significant decrease in these crimes over the summer. “Our policing efforts alongside partners and the public are essential to preventing theft and burglary which can have long-term impacts on victims. “I would like to say a very big thank you to all those involved, and to residents and visitors of the New Forest who took action to keep property secure, and their possessions protected from thieves." Denis Dooley, CEO of Camping in the New Forest, said: “We’re pleased to have supported Operation Forestguard this summer, helping our visitors enjoy their stay in the New Forest safely and confidently."

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Alex ready for next charity challenge

SPORTS therapist is aiming high for his most ambitious fundraiser yet on behalf of Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. Salisbury-based endurance runner Alex Bance – who has already raised more than £15,000 for the hospice charity – plans to take on running 380 miles in less than six days this week. Alex is taking on the longest and oldest walkway in England, the Greater Ridgeway National Trail. Completing the route in reverse, Alex will set off from Hunstanton, Norfolk, today (November 2), aiming to arrive in Lyme Regis, Dorset, by lunchtime on November 7. As the trail passes through Devizes, Alex will take a short detour to visit the Julia’s House children’s hospice building in Wiltshire. He hopes his efforts will help raise a further £5,000 for the charity. If successful, Alex will pass two remarkable milestones, raising more than £20,000 and completing more than 1,000 fundraising miles (1,177 miles total) for Julia’s House since 2019. In those seven years, father-of-two Alex has completed a series of demanding events, covering hundreds of miles and raising vital funds to help support children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Wiltshire and Dorset. “When I started fundraising for Julia’s House seven years ago, I never imagined I would one day be approaching 1,000 miles,” he said. “My trainers have had a lot of repairs in that time and at this point I think they’re more glue and tape than trainer.” The 46-year-old’s fundraising journey began with a 62-mile London to Brighton Run in 2019, and the following year – during the pandemic – he ran 100 miles in 24 hours.

Ultra-runner Alex Bance is planning to run 380 miles in less than six days

In 2023, Alex broke the Guinness World Record for running the longest distance while blindfolded, covering 72 miles around a track over a 24-hour period. And the following year, he completed Julia’s Journey, a 263-mile continuous run over three days, linking Great Ormond Street Hospital, where the hospice’s inspiration Julia Perks worked as a paediatric nurse, with the Julia’s House hospice buildings in Wiltshire and Devizes. Last year, his Path of the Past challenge saw him run 300 miles from the Preseli Hills in West Wales to Stonehenge. “Every year I look for a challenge that pushes me further because I know the difference the charity makes to local families,” Alex went on. “It seems my favourite fundraising challenges are always the ones that have a risk of catastrophic failure.” And now to the Greater Ridgeway challenge. “This is biggest distance I’ve ever done. It’s a long way and very remote, so it will be gruelling,” he added.

“With it being November, the nights will be longer, and I’ll have to carry a lot of gear in case the weather turns. I quite like the peace of night runs, but it slows you down because you can’t see much beyond the glare of your head torch – especially if it’s misty or raining. “My plan like previous challenges is just to keep going and take short naps on the side of the trail. I’ll have three kind friends to bring me out food and water at checkpoints each day and a couple of running pals to do a few miles with me and keep my morale up along the way.” On running such long distances, Alex said he can “feel pretty down” but that “my pain will end in a few days and it’s a choice that I’ve made”. “The families that Julia’s House care for don’t have a choice about the challenges they’re facing,” he said. “And if I can help them, even in a small way, it’s all worth it and I’ll keep supporting Julia’s House for as long as I can.” Alex’s fundraising efforts to date could fund three days of compassionate end-of-life care

from the Julia’s House team, helping families spend precious time together when they need it most. “When I started out, I only really thought I’d be able to raise a couple of hundred pounds for Julia’s House, so it’s incredible to think I might reach £20,000 with this challenge,” he said. “It’s all down to the kindness and generosity of people who want to help that I’ve been able to raise so much.” Nicky Clack, Julia’s House fundraising assistant, said: “Alex’s commitment is nothing short of extraordinary. Year after year he continues to dream bigger, push harder and inspire those around him, all to help the local children and families that we care for. “We are incredibly grateful for everything he has achieved already and will be cheering him on for his biggest challenge yet. Thank you, Alex.” Supporters can donate via Alex’s JustGiving page – at www.justgiving.com/page/ alex-bance-12 – and follow his progress via a live tracker throughout the run.

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River Park scoops two national awards

ALISBURY River Park has scooped two awards at a prestigious national event. The multi-million pound project, which was initiated after serious flooding in 2013/14, saw sites around the Avon redeveloped, including seven new or improved bridges, 1,600 metres of footpaths and 650m of cycleways installed. It was led by the Environment Agency in partnership with Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council. And the River Park scheme has new secured national recognition, picking up two accolades at the national British Construction & Infrastructure Awards (BCIA), organised by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and New Civil Engineer (NCE) magazine. It scooped both the Environmental Project Award

and the Placemaking Project Award from what the judges described as “a very strong field”. The BCIA judges praised the project’s strong commitment to climate resilience and how the space would work for the community. “This holistic approach was considered unequalled and made Salisbury River Park and worthy winner,” they said. After the awards Malcom Jackson, interim regional director for the ICE in the South West, said: “Salisbury River Park demonstrates how infrastructure solutions can deliver things like flood risk management and so much more. “This park has supported active travel, improved resilience, biodiversity and access to nature. It’s a fantastic example of how infrastructure can genuinely improve lives; providing a beautiful space for

people to enjoy while safeguarding communities.” Ron Curtis, flood and coastal risk manager at the Environment Agency, said: “We are thrilled that our Salisbury River Park project has won these awards, especially considering how strong all the shortlisted projects were. “We are particularly pleased to see this approach, where we have worked in partnership with Wiltshire and Salisbury councils to achieve multiple objectives, being recognised. We hope this

project can provide the blueprint for similar projects to be developed in the future.” And Gavin Pearson, editor, NCE, added: “These awards celebrate the best of the best across construction and infrastructure industries, not just in what they achieve in terms of the projects they deliver, but the incredible vital impact they have on the health, wellbeing and prosperity of communities and the country as a whole. “That is the context in which our judges debate and interrogate over 300 projects and initiatives that have a lasting impact on society and on the industry, reaching new heights that other professionals can aspire to and learn from.” Salisbury River Park is also shortlisted for the regional ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2026, which will be announced in Bristol on November 12.

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Politics

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800 years of thrills and tradition...

S autumn arrives and the evenings begin to draw in, there is one event that generations of Salisbury families look forward to more than any other. The annual Salisbury Charter Fair transforms the historic Market Square into a dazzling sea of lights, excitement screams and laughter, continuing a tradition that has been part of city life for almost 800 years. Next year promises to be especially significant as Salisbury celebrates the 800th anniversary of the charter granted by King Henry III in 1227, allowing a fair to be held in the city each October. What began as a medieval trading event has evolved into one of the country's oldest and most cherished charter fairs, drawing thousands of people into the city centre every year. For many local residents, the fair is steeped in memories. Grandparents who once rode the dodgems as children now watch their grandchildren do the same.

JEREMY NETTLE Conservative Salisbury City Councillor for Fisherton and Bemerton Village

Families return year after year, making the Charter Fair a living link between Salisbury's past and present. Unlike many modern amusement parks, where admission tickets, parking and food can quickly add up to well over £100 for a family day out, the Charter Fair remains refreshingly ‘affordable.’ Traditional side stalls such as Hook-a-Duck and many children's rides typically cost around £3, while the larger attractions, including the dodgems and high-speed adrenaline rides, are usually

around £5 per person. For many families, that affordability is an important part of the fair's enduring appeal. However, the real magic of the Charter Fair lies not in the rides themselves but in the atmosphere. For four days, the Market Square becomes the beating heart of the city. The sound of music drifts between the historic buildings, colourful lights illuminate the autumn evenings, and the aromas of candyfloss, doughnuts and burgers fill the air. There is a sense of excitement that simply cannot

be replicated elsewhere. Behind every ride and game is another important tradition: the travelling showmen and women who have dedicated their lives to bringing fairs to towns and cities across Britain. Many come from families who have worked the fairgrounds for generations, passing on their knowledge, skills and pride in their profession. Their guilds and associations have helped preserve a unique part of Britain's cultural heritage. As Salisbury prepares to celebrate this remarkable milestone, the Charter Fair serves as a reminder that some traditions are worth cherishing. It is more than a funfair; it is a piece of living history, a gathering place for the community and a source of treasured memories. Long after the lights are switched off and the rides have moved on, the spirit of the Charter Fair remains part of Salisbury's story.

PM backs Wessex mayoralty by 2028

RIME Minister Andy Burnham has said he backs moves to create a new Wessex strategic authority in the next two years. The Labour PM endorsed the idea – which has been proposed by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset Councils – during PMQs on October 21. Responding to a question from West Dorset MP Edward Morello, who asked if the PM would commit to the creation of a Mayor of Wessex by 2028, Mr Burnham said: “Yes. I’m always happy to create more mayors, Mr Speaker. “I’m not joking. Yes, I would like to see a fully-devolved south west of England.” The Prime Minister cited recent meetings with Cornish and Devonian MPs who are

calling for devolution, and said he endorsed the move for the whole of the south west region. Mr Morello said the move could unlock £460 million in funding each year, as well as generating an additional £16 billion in economic output over the next 30 years. However, a previous proposal by the Wessex group of authorities missed out on inclusion in the first wave of new devolved areas. But the leaders of the councils involved – Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, and BCP – welcomed the fresh comments. In a joint statement, Councillor Millie Earl (BCP), Cllr Nick Ireland (Dorset), Cllr Bill Revans (Somerset), and Cllr Ian Thorn (Wiltshire), called it a “landmark moment for Wessex and a powerful vote

of confidence in our region”. “The Prime Minister’s support is recognition of the hard work that has gone into making the case for Wessex and the enormous potential of our region,” they went on. “This is about delivering better outcomes for our residents and businesses. “Securing a Mayoral Strategic Authority will ensure that Wessex is no longer left behind but will finally be on a level playing field for the funding, powers, and

opportunities available to other parts of the country. “This means greater local control over investment in transport, housing, skills, infrastructure, economic growth, and jobs. It means decisions being made closer to the communities they affect. And it means giving our residents and businesses the tools they need to thrive. “Wessex is ready. We’ve done the groundwork. We have built a strong partnership, established shared priorities, and shown that we can deliver at scale. “There is still work to do, but we start from a position of strength. Our message to Government is – we’re ready, we’re excited, and we’re looking forward to getting on with the job.”

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Salisbury & Avon, November 2, 2026

Events

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THREE-DAY event filled with supercars and motoring superstars and everything a petrolhead could wish for is returning to Wiltshire next summer. Wilton Legends is set to take place at Wilton House from June 18 to 20, returning after a successful first event in 2026 – which included an appearance by AC/DC legend, Brian Johnson, pictured. Johnson, the voice behind AC/DC for some of the band’s most successful periods, met visitors and car fans during last year’s event – and left the scene in a classic car in true rock-star style. The event featured live conversations, curated automotive displays, art and craftsmanship, offering a fresh take on the traditional concours. Created by the Earl of

Pembroke and organised by Hothouse Media, publishers of Octane and Magneto magazines, Wilton Legends offers a “distinctive combination of motoring, culture and heritage within the grounds of one of England’s great historic houses”. In 2027, returning for its second year, Wilton Legends organisers said they will build on the success with 100 cars planned for the concourse display, a broader selection of catering and retail offerings, and “more chances to discover the people and stories behind automotive history”. Wilton Legends takes place at Wilton House, Wiltshire, from June 18-20, 2027. For more details, and to book tickets, visit hubs.la/ Q04BWqg00.

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Salisbury & Avon, November 2, 2026

Your Pictures

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My territory, by Fraser Carson

Stunning skies and thrilling rides! Shaggy Ink Cap fungus, by Mark Warner

Snooze time, by Colin Newbury

Salisbury & Avon, November 2, 2026

Your Pictures

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Spinning top, by Wesley Bartlett

Head bowed, by Alex Köntzle A different angle, by Rich Safe

Cygnet near the Bishops Mill, by Scott Blackmore

Salisbury & Avon, November 2, 2026

Antiques & Collectibles

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Christmas sale a highlight of year

Free valuations every Friday at our Wimborne office

LARKE’S Auctions is inviting consignments for its much-anticipated three-day Christmas sale. As the festive season approaches, the auction house in Gillingham, is preparing for one of the highlights of its auction calendar. The team is now encouraging owners of antiques, collectables and unusual treasures to come forward with items they believe deserve a place in this special end-of-year event. A firm favourite with buyers and collectors, the Christmas sale offers three days of auction excitement, bringing together a fascinating variety of items and the opportunity for unexpected discoveries. From sought after antiques and fine jewellery to coins, militaria, works of art and rare collectables, the appeal lies in the sheer variety of objects that can come under the hammer.

Clarke’s Auctions is particularly keen to hear from anyone with interesting, unusual or specialist items that could make this year’s sale extra special. Whether it is a rare collectable tucked away in a cupboard, a family heirloom waiting to find a new home, an intriguing piece of history or an entire collection, the team would be delighted to hear from potential vendors. Auctioneer Richard Clarke and his experienced team have built a reputation for handling a wide range of antiques and collectables, combining professional knowledge with a friendly, personal approach. With buyers able to participate in person and online, consignments can attract interest from well beyond the local area. Anyone considering selling is encouraged to get in touch –

An Hungarian 100 Kroner 1908 34g sold for £4,000 with Clarke’s

consignments are being taken in from November 16. Clarke’s Auctions’ three-day Christmas sale will take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, December 29, 30 and 31, at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

n To discuss consigning items into an upcoming sale, or to enquire about valuations and house clearances, contact Richard Clarke or Kay Finbow on 01747 685592. And for further information on the sale, visit www. clarkesauctions.co.uk.

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Salisbury & Avon, November 2, 2026 salisburyandavon.co.uk

with Sally Gregson Home & Garden

Getting your garden ready for winter... by Sally Gregson

HIS year, more than any other, we are being well warned of winter rain, cold weather, rain and more rain. All we can do is to prepare as we usually do and make sure that every new plant we put in is in ‘the right place’. Never has this seemed such good advice. The Delos Garden at Sissinghurst In many ways this year has been ideal for visiting open both native and exotic, that gardens to see just what and thrive in extremes of drying how to grow sun-lovers that can winds and salt spray. cope with extreme heat and The world famous garden at drought without watering. Sissinghurst Castle in Kent has Prospect Cottage, the former just been ‘extended’ to include home of the late Derek Jarman, Mediterranean-style planting, revels in its coastal garden at inspired by Vita and Harold’s Dungeness, comprising plants, visit to the Greek island of

Plant your garden meadow OVER the past decade or more, since the London Olympics in particular, a quiet revolution has been happening in our gardens. Gradually ever more beautiful ‘meadows’ are filling our gardens – we have fallen in love with fields of colour. These flowering gems are the brainchild of the late, much mourned, Professors Nigel Dunnett and James Hitchmough, who were working at Sheffield University on a seed mix that would flower from April until the frosts. In the past seed mixes mostly comprised short-term flowers grown annually. No one had worked out a viable succession of flowers from spring to autumn. Then the professors got together and worked out a mix of annuals that succeeded each other throughout the summer. They separated the mixes by colour at first, but when the designers of the Olympic parks in London approached them for a long-lasting vibrant patchwork of colour, Dunnett and Hitchmough introduced an exciting mixture of annuals that

wowed everyone who saw them. The brief succeeded. The areas around the Olympic Park buzzed with happy bees and hummed with content visitors. Since 2012 the seed mixes have only got better. And this summer has proved that although they come and go, they persist. They fulfil the brief. But, as with all successes, it is important to do the groundwork first – ensure the area is naturally sunny and free of competing weeds and the soil drains freely, whether by sowing on a slope or adding lots of grit when sowing the mix. Annuals prefer poorer soils. At the end of the summer, it might be good practice to save and collect as much seed as possible but add that to new seed and start the area again each year. You might have to take measures against the hungry birds at first, but once sown, the seed should germinate in two weeks or so and produce a haze of green before the first plants start showing buds and flower for another glorious summer.

Delos. The area originally assigned to the Delos Garden was somewhat dispiriting – the soil was heavy, wet clay and it faced north. Within a few short years the Second World War had broken out, taking Vita’s gardeners to fight for King and Country. The Delos Garden became a forgotten memory. Until 2019, that is, when head gardener Troy Scott-Smith

started to research and, together with the great garden designer Dan Pearson, drew up plans to recreate the garden that Vita and Harold had only dreamed of. Now, seven years later, the Delos Garden at Sissinghurst has become a template of just how and what to plant in the difficult conditions we experienced this summer. The drainage has been greatly improved and, as has happened this summer, the sun has blazed down every day. This winter there will be countless magazine articles about Delos that are there for us gardeners to read – to absorb the good advice and perhaps to emulate in our own gardens.

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U O E H B H S K Y E Y G A R L

R H T M C I T S E J A M E H T

PECAN PIE RUBBERFACE THE CABLE GUY THE DEAD POOL THE MAJESTIC THE TRUMAN SHOW UNDER THE SEA YES MAN

T A U N D E R T H E S E A C E

26 26

Cut

Princely title (inits)

25 25

27 27

Affluent

Doctrine

24 24

Across Across 1 Educates (7) (7) Across 1 Educates 5 Cross-dressing (4) (4) 1 Educates (7) 5 Cross-dressing 8 Discharged (5)(4)(5) 5 Cross-dressing 8 Discharged 9 Segment (7) 8 Discharged (5) (7) 9 Segment It be (4) (4) 911 Segment (7) multiple-choice? 11may It may be multiple-choice? Plant specialist (8) (8) 1112 It may be multiple-choice? (4) 12 Plant specialist Massage (5) (5) 1215 Plant (8) 15 specialist Massage Chairs and benches (5) (5) 1516 Massage (5) and 16 Chairs benches Natural 1619 Chairs andillumination benches (5)(8) (8) 19 Natural illumination Genuine (4) (4) (8) 1921 Natural illumination 21 Genuine ‘Right answer’ (7) (7) 2123 Genuine (4) answer’ 23 ‘Right Written setssets of (5) (5) 2325 ‘Right answer’ (7) items 25 Written of items Meander 2526 Written sets(4) of items (5) 26 Meander (4) Succinct 2627 Meander (4)(7) (7) 27 Succinct 27 Succinct (7)

D D R E V E R O F N A M T A B

Down Down 2 For suresure (9) (9) Down 2 For 3 Chances 2 For sure (9) (4) (4) 3 Chances 4 Teaching (6) (6) 3 Chances (4) unitunit 4 Teaching 5 Half a colon? 4 Teaching unit (6)(3) (3) 5 Half a colon? 6 Nuclei andand electrons (5) (5) 5 Half colon? (3) electrons 6aNuclei 7 Later in time (5) (5)(5) 6 Nuclei and electrons 7 Later in time Pursues (6)(5)(6) 710 Later time 10 in Pursues Hobbies 1013 Pursues (6) (9) (9) 13 Hobbies Lampoon 1314 Hobbies (9) (6) (6) 14 Lampoon Depressed (6) (6) 1417 Lampoon (6) areaarea 17 Depressed Fewest (5) 1718 Depressed area 18 Fewest (5) (6) Battery (5) (5) 1820 Fewest (5)terminal 20 Battery terminal Group of countries 2022 Battery terminal (5) (4) (4) 22 Group of countries Radiation exposure (3) (3) 2224 Group of countries (4) unitunit 24 Radiation exposure 24 Radiation exposure unit (3)

Easy sudoku

1 7 6 4 8 2 1 3 4 3 6 1 3 4 9 9 1 3 2 8 2 2 6 4 Brain chain 6

RESULT

×1/3

×11

+36

×1/2

+11

Salisbury & Avon, November 2, 2026 salisburyandavon.co.uk SALISBURY & AVONPER

M BU

GAZETTE

Z 10

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Z 10

6 8

2 7

8 9 6

1 9

5 1

6 2 9

8 5

6 1 7

1 3

2324

1618

5 6

1011

3 8

1 6

9 4

1 9 3 5 2 3

5 3

9 6

ISSUE ISSUE106 35

7 4

Cryptic crossword 1

8 4

D Across Down Across 2 An Eccentric 2came in judge place for film buffs Angry following first(6) sign of illegali 1 Eccentric came in place for film buffs1(6) 3 Li 5 Run of firms in a colourful stylein(6)letter (7) 3 Lie? Step that’s improvised 5 Run over pair of firms in a colourful style (6)over pair Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each independent source of in carpet 4(9)A 4 on A cross and church shown 8 Put burden on independent source of8 Put burden 10 11 5 Tu rides? (4) 5 Turn priest (3) rides? (4) of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t 6O 9 Political group in part of a musical (8) 6 Order missing last two work characters and 9 Political group in part of a musical work (8) pu 10 (6) Mentor that’s set off British comedian (6) punctuation mark (5) 10 Mentor that’s set off British comedian 7D 11 Brazil this e-commerce company 7 Devise study on Colorado and (6) Connectic 11 Brazil includes this e-commerce company (6)includes 11 Pl 12 Some man tenders stake 12Some 14 13 man tenders stake (4) 1115 Place kept by(4) captain at work for candid 12 fo 14 First trophy for recalled post?(3) (9) 14 First trophy recalled (3) 15 Punkish figure irritated hotel (4) for figure (7) 13 R 13 Rule man formulated 15 Punkish figure irritated hotel (4) 15 G( 16real More substantial taken into 15 Guestpolitician is uneasy about actreal of courtesy? 16 More substantial politician taken into 56× 1 21+ 14+ 210× 17 R ground (6) 17 Release game 16ground (6) 18 17 19 after permission (3,2) 19 by Sy 18 Home by19 French river material reportedly? Synthetic onlyThat’s manufactured 18 Home by French river reportedly? That’s N crazy (6) Norway (5) crazy (6) Placeone numbers 1 to 9 for standards 3÷ 6+ 20 Councillor, I rate possibly standards 21 one Half-hearted start?for That’s nonsense21 (3)H 20 Councillor, I rate possibly for judging (8) once(8) each into every for judging 20Unattractive guy looking unkempt 22guy looking unkempt about 50 (4) 22 Unattractive 22 about 50 (4) row, column and 21 23 A long-running US TV series about 23 A long-running US TV series about 1 8× 2 3÷ bold-lined 3x3 box. Frenchman nearly (6) Frenchman nearly (6) No digitaffectedly may be pretty by Northern 24 Type of maid, affectedly pretty by Northern 24 Type of maid, yard (6) 23yard (6) 24 repeated in any dash-

cross

the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

378×

12+

1080×

11+

90×

Killer Sudoku Pro

14×

18+

16×

lined cage, and all the digits in any cage + 19Across must add up to the 1 Eccentric came in place for film buffs (6) value in style that (6) 5 Run over pair of firms in ashown colourful

cage.

12+

6÷

22+

11+

Brain chain (hard version) 28

8 Put burden on independent source of rides? (4) 9 Political group in part of a musical work (8) 10 Mentor that’s set off British comedian (6) 11 Brazil includes this e-commerce company (6) 96× 12 Some man tenders stake (4) 14 First trophy recalled (3) 15 Punkish figure irritated hotel (4) 16 More substantial politician taken into real ground (6) 18 Home by French river reportedly? That’s crazy (6) 20 Councillor, one I rate possibly for standards for judging (8) 22 Unattractive guy looking unkempt about 50 (4) 23 A long-running US TV series about Frenchman nearly (6) 24 Type of maid, affectedly pretty by Northern yard (6) RESULT

×8

÷7

×9/16

+76

+50%

Down 2 Angry judge following first sign of illegality (5) 3 Lie? Step that’s improvised in letter (7) 4 A cross and church shown in carpet (9) 5 Turn priest (3) 6 Order missing last two characters and punctuation mark (5) 7 Devise study on Colorado and Connecticut (7) 11 Place kept by captain at work for candidate for post? (9) 13 Rule man formulated for figure (7) 15 Guest is uneasy about act of courtesy? (7) 17 Release game after permission (3,2) 19 Synthetic material only manufactured by Norway (5) 21 Half-hearted start? That’s nonsense (3)

For the solutions, turn to page 30

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