What’s inside this issue…
Lloyd Armishaw
newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186
Kye Harman
01963 400186
lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937
salisburyandavon.co.uk
Window appeal gets £1,000 boost
ANappeal to restore a stained glass window of angels at Salisbury Cathedral has received a £1,000 boost.
The Arts Society Salisbury has pledged the donation for the cause, which looks to restore the Burne-Jones window.
A two-year restoration process is said to cost up to £120,000 to repair damage after the window endured years of exposure to the elements, particularly condensation.
Recent close inspections have unveiled the true extent of the deterioration – with painted details, especially the figurative elements of the window, having significantly deteriorated.
The lead work shows signs of cracking, and the unique glazing exacerbates the challenges.
Work to restore the windows will be undertaken by Salisbury Cathedral’s glazing department.
Currently there are four glaziers working in the onsite
studio at Salisbury Cathedral, including one apprentice glazier. Head glazier Sam Kelly, who was apprenticed at the cathedral and honed his craft over many years, is bringing his depth of knowledge to lead the team in
Cheers to best beer award!
A BREWERY run out of a converted garage was named Beer of the Festival at Salisbury’s summer beer and cider event.
The Dead Duck Brewery, in Hale, near Downton, grabbed the top spot for the second year running of the Salisbury & South Wiltshire branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) festival, Summerfest.
The brewery’s Sunny Haze beer, a 4.5% ABV IPA, gets its name partly because its colour resembles the dappled sunshine of New Forest sunsets and also from Sunny, the friendly cockapoo dog owned by brewer Paul Bartlett and wife, Louise.
Last year, the one-man band won the Beer of the Festival award at Summerfest 2024 with Knightwood Oak, a 5% ABV chocolate porter, named after the largest, and probably the oldest, tree in the New Forest. Paul, who teaches creative
arts at the New Forest Academy in Hythe, said: “I am honoured and surprised, in fact chuffed, to have won this award two years in a row.”
He began brewing 11 years ago after being given a home brew kit as a Christmas present and his wife described it as “a hobby that got out of control”.
When they moved to Hale to be nearer their respective families, the garage seemed the perfect building to convert into a small brewery.
“I thought that the brewery would never succeed, so I gave it the name ‘Dead Duck’ as a joke,” said Paul. “I am being proved wrong.”
It was donated in commemoration of one of the family, Captain George Eyre Townsend RA, jointly designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris and manufactured by Morris and Co in the late 19th century.
The Arts Society Salisbury initially provided £500 for the appeal after finding a small surplus against its annual budget for the first time in several years, which was match-funded by an additional £500 from The Arts Society Wessex Area’s funds, making a total donation of £1,000.
the window’s care and conservation.
The window was installed in Salisbury Cathedral by the Townsend family, who lived at Mompesson House, in The Close, 145 years ago.
A spokesperson for Society said: “One of The Arts Society Salisbury’s stated aims is to support conservation in its community, so its involvement in this piece of arts restoration at the very heart of its own city is important. The Society is also very grateful for the additional funding from its area team.”
Representatives from The Arts Society Society Salisbury and The Wessex Arts Society who visited the workshop
Picture: The Arts Society Salisbury
Phyll completes another landmark walk - to mark 100th birthday!
DETERMINED
Salisbury woman celebrated her 100th birthday by completing her final and 200th lap around Salisbury Cathedral Close.
Phyll Babb battled soaring temperatures on July 13 to raise £11,300 for the Salisbury Trust for the Homeless (STFH).
Her brisk pace saw her arrive back at the post-walk party venue 15 minutes ahead of schedule.
She was accompanied on the one-mile walk by John Glen, MP for Salisbury, more than 20 members of her extended family, who had come from all over the country, representatives of STFH, and some of those who have accompanied her on her walks during the past year, which have raised £11,319 in total for the charity.
“Phyll is remarkable,” said Mr Glen, who was walking with her for the second time.
“As we turned into The Close near the end of the walk, she said, ‘I could do with a glass of Prosecco’ and that seemed to me to sum up Phyll Babb."
Shortly afterwards, Phyll got
her wish when the Italian sparkling white wine was served at a party in Sarum College to celebrate her centenary.
On the way into the college, she was serenaded by musicians Jonathan Healey, her great niece’s partner, and Marcellus Taylor, a family friend, with the Frank Sinatra classic, Come Fly with Me.
Phyll then presented a giant cheque for £11,319 to Maureen Pardy, chair of STFH, who said “she is a star”.
Mr Glen also paid tribute to the centenarian.
“We are all so proud of you for what you have done,” he said. “The determination, the kindness and the good humour with which you go about your life is an example to all of us.”
Phyll took on a similar challenge following her 99th birthday last year.
Originally, she had planned to mark her 100th birthday by doing 100 walks around the Cathedral Close, but she got so far ahead of schedule that she upped her target to 200.
She said: “I thought, 'Here
am I, having a lovely time and still fit and healthy. I can do something to help those less fortunate than I am'.”
During the walks, for which she uses a rollator aid of the type made famous by Captain Sir Tom Moore, she has been accompanied by 132 different people, including Mr Glen, then-Mayor Councillor Sven Hocking, former Mayor John Walsh, and Salisbury Cathedral Chancellor, the Reverend Canon Edward Probert.
“I have had a wonderful time and a wonderful year and I have had something to do four days a week,” said Phyll.
“The people I have walked with have all had different careers and I have made a list of all their occupations.
“I was wondering what I am going to do with myself now so I have decided to write an account of everything I can remember about everyone in my family.”
Phyll was born in Bideford, north Devon, and went to Exeter University before working as a teacher.
In 1949 she adventurously travelled by sea alone to Jamaica, where she taught in a girl’s grammar school for three years. After a brief spell in England, she took off again to Vancouver in western Canada before returning to the UK to look after her disabled mother.
Back home in Bideford, she carried on teaching but was also a keen member of the local yacht club, becoming secretary and then rear commodore.
In 1985 she retired, and the following year moved to Salisbury, where she became involved in a range of voluntary work – the Probation Service, Victim Support and U3A (University of the Third Age), for which she undertook senior roles at national level.
She was placed on the U3A Roll of Honour. She first became involved with STFH in 1998 and was chairman from 2004 to 2009.
n Donate at www.justgiving. com/page/phyllbabb-1722779310016.
Phyll Babb with friends, family and others on her 100th birthday walk
Appeal over road rage
POLICE are appealing for any witnesses to get in touch following a road rage incident in Amesbury.
The force said a rider of a Yamaha motorbike reportedly smashed both wing mirrors off a red Ford Kuga on London Road at around 4pm on June 25.
The driver of the Kuga, a man in his 70s, was then reportedly assaulted when he got out of the car.
An Amesbury Police spokesperson said: “We have a similar report of a rider smashing wing mirrors off parked cars the previous day and riding dangerously on the A345.
“We are appealing for anybody who witnessed either of these incidents to get in touch.”
Anyone who can help should contact police on 101, reference 54250078897.
Tools stolen from city site
POLICE want to speak to anyone with information about the theft of power tools from a work site in Milford Mill Road, Salisbury.
The tools and an excavator were taken from the site over the weekend of June 19 to 23.
Officers want to hear from anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity.
Call 101 quoting log number 54250076875.
Anger over relocated bus stop
REQUESTS
have been made to return a Salisbury City Centre bus stop back to its original position due to a lack of seating for elderly passengers.
Users of the P&R7 service from the city centre to Bishopdown saw their stop outside Lloyd’s Bank, in Blue Boar Row, which has ample seating and shelter, diverted to outside the Tesco Express store on Castle Street throughout the Fisherton Street improvement works.
This Castle Street stop has been described by users as lacking seating, with only a perch bar available which does not offer the same relief as a bench for elderly or frail passengers.
Concerns were also raised that the Castle Street stop creates pavement congestion at the supermarket entrance, which has caused particular difficulty for people with mobility aids.
Now, Salisbury Reds plans to move the bus stop to a new location on Endless Street –expected to take place later this month – but this does not provide seating, merely a perch bar that does not offer the same relief.
Many passengers raised these concerns with Lesley Waller from Laverstock & Ford Parish
Council.
“While I appreciate that Salisbury Reds are moving us from the crowded pavement outside Tesco, this won’t solve the problem,” she said.
“We need to return to our original bus stop L on Boar Road, which has shelter and seating for elderly passengers. The P&R7 is important for tourists, so they deserve the best stop — Endless Street isn’t ideal.”
She said Endless Street “is not the place that showcases our wonderful medieval city of Salisbury, it isn’t the most salubrious area of Salisbury and nor is it as prominent and easy to find for visitors to the city".
One bus user presented their concerns to Cllr Waller, telling her that as they have a cardiac condition they require a seat when waiting for a bus.
Another user, Alan Coombes, who frequently uses the service from the city centre to Bishopdown, has a back problem and struggles with the perch bar.
He said: “Perching is better than nothing, but it is not good enough.”
Despite the concerns, Salisbury Reds said it is not possible to move the stop back to Blue Boar, as there “is no
extra capacity” due to highfrequency routes leaving from that spot.
Salisbury Reds general manager, Andrew Sherrington, said: “We work hard to accommodate the needs of our customers – while taking into account the logistical requirements of our services –when locating bus stops.
“We took the decision to move the original bus stop, following customer feedback that there was a lack of seating at the Tesco stop.
“After working closely with Wiltshire Council, we found that there was capacity for services on Endless Street –which has the seating.
“Moving to Endless Street also met the objective of harmonised services going in that direction, departing from the same area of the city.
“Unfortunately, there is no extra capacity on Blue Boar due to high-frequency routes leaving from there – and the increasing need for a set down stand.”
Cllr Waller said the 'seating' was a red bar.
She said: “Reds claim there is seating in Endless Street, but (there is) only a narrow bar, which may not comply with the Equality Act or aid passengers with health or mobility issues.”
Alan, left, is among bus users angry over the relocation of the Blue Boar Row stop, right
Bravo! Joy for Africa appeal
ATOTAL of 5,481 BRAS were collected across the Salisbury area to support women in need in Africa.
The gently-used garments were collected by Salisbury Soroptimists, who partnered with the Zabra - Afreebra initiative to send thousands of donated bras to the continent.
They were collected at several points around the city including Five Rivers Leisure Centre, Salisbury Library, Salisbury Playhouse and Salisbury and South Wilts Golf Club.
Salisbury Soroptimists thanked all the collection points and the many individuals who contributed.
"A big thank you to everyone in Salisbury and the surrounding area who contributed to this fantastic total," said Penny Joyce, the project leader.
"This is our seventh year collecting gently used bras
during May and June. It never ceases to amaze us, the generosity of the women of Salisbury and beyond."
The bras will be transported to Twickenham by Barry of BMC Clearances for the second year – who said he was “glad to help out”, adding it was one of his more unusual loads.
The Zabra – Afreebra initiative has a storage unit in Twickenham for the bras before they are transported to Africa.
This year, bras will be going to the Rural Smile Foundation, who will take them to Ejura, Ghana.
A Soroptimists spokesperson added: "Salisbury Soroptimists are happy to have saved so many bras from going to landfill or fabric recycling.
"It is heartening that they will be used by women who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford such a garment. Thank you everyone."
QUICK NEWS
Bad behaviour house closed
A HOUSE in Tidworth has been subjected to a closure order due to repeated and ongoing anti-social behaviour.
Amesbury Police said Melksham House on Wylye Road saw frequent reports of substance misuse, disorder and excessive noise.
The force has been working with Aster Housing to secure the order since January.
A spokesperson said: “This [order] will allow us to safeguard local residents and we won’t hesitate to take a robust approach to those found to be breaching the order.”
People can report antisocial behaviour to police on 101, or via Crimstoppers on 0800 555 111.
The rooftop bar will allow drinkers to enjoy unique views of the Salisbury skyline
Boy, 16, jailed for raping three girls and sexually assaulting another
ATEENAGE boy in Amesbury received an eight-year sentence after raping three teenage girls and sexually assaulting a fourth.
It was revealed that he targeted the girls on social media and convinced them to meet up before sexually assaulting them.
The 16-year-old, who can’t be named for legal reasons, was found guilty of raping a 14-year-old and 13-year-old girl, raping and sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, and sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl, following a trial in January at Basingstoke Youth Court.
The shocking crimes took place on four separate occasions between May 2023 and December 2024, with the four victims unknown to one another.
On one of the occasions, the defendant plied a victim with vodka before raping her.
Following an investigation by the Child Abuse Investigation Team in Melksham, the defendant was charged with the offences and remanded into custody.
On July 18 at Salisbury Crown Court, he was given an eight-year custodial sentence, firstly at a secure training centre then a young offender’s institution, plus a further six years on licence.
He will be required to sign on to the Sex Offenders Register for life and be the subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
He is also the subject of an indefinite restraining order against all four victims.
Speaking after the sentencing, DC Dan England
said: “The conviction of this teenage boy for heinous crimes of rape and sexual assault against four young girls highlights the troubling issue of toxic sexual behaviours in some young men.
“These behaviours, which can stem from a variety of societal influences, must be addressed through education and open dialogue, in the home, at school, workplaces and throughout our entire community.
“Our young people must understand the importance of consent and the profound impact that their actions can have on others, and we will continue to work collectively to instil a sense of respect and
accountability.
“My thoughts are firmly with the victims, who have shown remarkable courage and resilience throughout this ordeal.
"It is their bravery in coming forward that has brought this perpetrator to justice.
"I applaud their strength in the face of such unimaginable trauma and thank them for putting their trust in us.
“As a community, we must continue to support survivors of sexual violence.”
n Anyone who has been sexually abused, or knows someone who had, should contact police on 999.
Alpacas stop by!
CARE home residents in Wilton made some new furry friends thanks to a special visit.
Two alpacas from Alpaca Adventure visited Wilton Place care home on Buckeridge Road on July 9.
The residents were said to be pleasantly surprised to see the alpacas wandering around the courtyard, with many getting a closer look to pet and ask questions about their new friends.
Josephine, a resident at Wilton Place, said, “It was simply wonderful having the alpacas visit us today; they were so well behaved and I think they enjoyed the fuss.”
General manager at Wilton Place, Antoinette Roberts, said: “Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitors today.
“We knew that having the animals here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus.
“We are always looking for new activities for the residents and today we have seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.”
Concerns over Stonehenge byways for equinox
THERE are increasing concerns the byways surrounding Stonehenge could be closed for the autumn equinox.
They come as Wiltshire Council said it is “considering its options” over closures, following previous incidents of people setting up long-term encampments at the site.
Byways surrounding the spiritual stones have seen closures this year to carry out surface repairs, and work has so far been extended due to what Wiltshire Council said is down to the “complexity of the site”.
The routes have been used by people throughout the years to get close to the stones without having to pay for parking at the English Heritage-owned car park.
The autumn equinox takes place on September 22 and due to Stonehenge’s alignment to the sun, the site will once again see many people gather to celebrate the changing of the seasons as English Heritage allows free ‘managed open access’ to the stones, similar to
the solstices.
But some of these regular attendees oppose having to park at the Stonehenge car park, opting instead to park up at the byways to enjoy the celebrations without handing money over to English Heritage.
Now, Wiltshire Council said it is considering possible restrictions to the byways following “inappropriate use” during large gatherings.
Councillor Martin Smith,
Lando the lucky spaniel rescued from reservoir!
A COCKER spaniel that fell into a New Forest reservoir had a quick rescue by Wiltshire firefighters.
Lando fell into a four-metre-deep concrete pit at a reservoir off of Alderholt Road in Somerley, Ringwood on the morning of Sunday, June 22.
On-call firefighters were quick to respond to calls for help and rescued the four-legged friend within 30 minutes of arriving.
The lucky pooch was reportedly uninjured and returned safely to his owner.
cabinet member for highways, said: “Over the years, we’ve seen instances where certain vehicles have caused significant damage to the surface and surrounding environment.
“In some cases, individuals have used the byways as long-term encampments, which has led to issues with waste management and poses a potential fire risk.
“While the byways remain closed to motor vehicles, they
remain open for pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians.” Pagan priest and Gazette columnist King Arthur Pendragon, who has routinely spoken out about concerns of English Heritage creating a monopoly over parking at Stonehenge, said closing the byways would result in the festivities becoming “sanitised”. He is also concerned at the prospect of parking charges eventually being installed.
Scouts' splashing time at race
SALISBURY Scouts got suitably soaked at this year’s Salisbury & South Wilts Scout Raft Race.
The scouts took to the water of the River Nadder on Sunday, July 7, thanks to permission from the Salisbury Canoe Club.
They competed in timed runs over the 150-metre course in two age groups: those in Year 6 and 7 against those in Year 8 and 9.
The fastest two teams in each age group then raced each other in the finals.
The Scouts spent several weeks designing and building
rafts themselves and practising their paddling and teamwork. Rafts had to include evidence of rope lashings to hold them together.
Teams from Bourne Valley, 23rd Salisbury, 4th Salisbury (Harnham), 1st Alderbury, 1st Amesbury, and Bulford Scout Troops contested the races.
The fastest times in the Year 6 and 7 category were 23rd Salisbury Team D with 1 minute 54 seconds and second, Bourne Valley with 1 minute 57 seconds.
The two teams contested the final in a head-to-head race,
with the 23rd taking an early lead, but they were being chased down by Bourne Valley when disaster struck and the 23rd sank.
Bourne Valley then cruised to the title.
In the Year 8 and 9 category, the qualifiers for the final were Bourne Valley with 1 minute 47 seconds and 4th Salisbury (Harnham) with 1 minute 56 seconds.
The head-to-head race was very tightly contested over the first section of the course but Bourne Valley gained the middle of the river and pulled
away over the length of the course.
The fastest time down the course was 1 minute 47 seconds by the Bourne Valley Year 8 and 9 team.
Mark Warner, PR and media team lead, said: “The raft races are one of the most highly anticipated events in the Scout calendar and are always keenly contested. The Scouts build the rafts themselves and are keen to practice before the event. Congratulations to this year’s worthy winners Bourne Valley.”
He thanked Salisbury Canoe Club for hosting the races.
The Year 6 & 7 final saw 23rd Salisbury take an early lead before were chased down by Bourne Valley
Pictures: Mark Warner
Bourne Valley on their way to winning the Year 8 & 9 Race, left, and 4th Salisbury (Harnham) in action
prevention is better than cure. So my team and I are offering a moss removal service which entails all moss removed and to re-point any defective cement works from ridge line and re-cement any broken gables, we always allow up to 15 broken or slipped tiles. What this offer ensures is an overall roof clean and minor repairs, all gutters and downpipes will be cleaned once the job is finished.This service is from as little as £295 and will 100% prevent you from having large roof repairs or roof replacment.
More fly-tipping fines issued in crackdown
ABULFORD resident is one of six people in Wiltshire ordered to pay a fine for fly-tipping.
The resident, who has not been named, was fined £1,000 after CCTV footage captured them dumping household waste on a public right of way. They were one of six people
issued fixed penalty notices (FPNs) as part of Wiltshire Council’s We’re Targeting Fly-tippers campaign.
Three people were also caught on CCTV fly-tipping waste on a rural lane in Royal Wootton Bassett, with their actions resulting in a combined total of £3,000 in fines.
A Lyneham resident was also fined £1,000 for dumping furniture and household waste on Clack Hill in Dauntsey Lock, while a Warminster resident was fined £1,000 after removing bags from his car to make space – then leaving them behind. He claimed he forgot to retrieve them after taking a cigarette break in the dark. All fines have been paid in full. As fixed penalty notices are
not court convictions, the people involved cannot be publicly named.
Councillor Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways, street scene and flooding, said: “Fly-tipping is a blight on our beautiful Wiltshire landscapes and our officers are working hard to take action and prosecute those people who choose to dump their waste illegally."
Community rallies for fundraising high score to keep city arcade open
ASALISBURY
arcade that was set to close will remain open thanks to the support of the community.
Highest Score Arcade put out a rallying call to gamers across the city to not let it be game over for the business, at the Cross Keys Shopping Centre, as it offered visitors the chance to stay all day for just £1.
The business hoped to raise enough money to keep the lights on after reduced footfall, rising costs and operational issues saw it forced to close earlier this month.
Now, after a huge response from city gamers, Highest Score Arcade confirmed it raised an impressive £3,000 in just two days.
Owner James Petherick took to Facebook to thank everyone that attended.
He said: “Thanks to everyone
who has supported the arcade over the last couple of weeks.
“The people of Salisbury, Wiltshire, further afield and around the world have raised £3,000 to secure the short-term future of the arcade.
“I can’t thank you all enough for your support and everything that people have done and the support from local businesses – Eden Wellness and Liz and Tom over at Artisan Wine for being my sounding board, and Salisbury Business Podcast who donated £500 to keep the arcade open.”
A spokesperson added: “This isn’t just about games. It’s about community, fun, and proving that small independent places can survive with your support.
“We can’t wait to see you all back at the arcade – check our website and socials for opening times, party bookings and more.
Let’s keep this momentum going, Salisbury. “Booking will become
available soon via the website; for now just come and pay at the door.”
Pub named among country's best
A TRADITIONAL, 'Ye Olde England' pub in Salisbury is officially one of the best 500 pubs in the country, according to a national newspaper.
The Telegraph has this week published its list of the best 500 pubs.
Expert Will Hawkes, who has been reviewing pubs for decades, graded each pub on their charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and, of course, award-winning beer.
One of the pubs to feature in the list is Salisbury’s very own The Haunch of Venison, at 1 Minster Street.
Mr Hawkes praised the pub’s “lavishly wood-panelled rooms and pewter-topped bar inside”, with a history dating back to the 15th century.
He said: “If you want Ye Olde England, you’ve come to the right place.
“From the half-timbered exterior – upon which the pub is described as ‘an old English chop house,’ a suitably Dickensian appellation – to the lavishly wood-panelled rooms and pewter-topped bar inside, this is a real taste of the past.
“With a history dating back into at least the 15th century, it has been (at different times, naturally) used by the local church and a brothel.
“There’s an apparently mummified hand on display, too, although happily it’s a fake: the ‘real’ one was stolen.”
Taking to social media, the team at The Haunch of Venison said they were “so proud”.
The pub is “probably the oldest hostelry in Salisbury and certainly the most haunted”, the pub said.
The oak beams at the pub are thought to have predated the building by several hundred
Highest Score Arcade owner, James Petherick
HGV driver banned for drug driving
ANHGV driver from Wilton has been banned from driving for three years after being found to have six times the legal limit of cocaine in his system while behind the wheel in Dorset.
At around 12.45pm on Saturday, March 29, officers spotted a man driving an Iveco heavy goods vehicle along the A31 Ringwood Road at St Leonards while holding his mobile phone up to his ear. They followed the vehicle and also saw the driver was not wearing his seatbelt.
After pulling over the driver – Mark Waters – a roadside drug test was carried out which returned a positive for cocaine. Waters, of Thornton Crescent, Wilton, was arrested and taken to custody. Analysis of his blood found benzoylecgonine - a metabolite of cocaine - present at more than 300 micrograms per litre.
The legal limit is 50 micrograms per litre.
On July 7, the 28-year-old appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty to using a handheld mobile phone while driving a motor vehicle on a road, driving on a road while not wearing a seat belt and driving a motor vehicle with a proportion of a specified controlled drug above the specified limit. He was sentenced to a three-year driving disqualification, a
Waters was behind the wheel of this HGV when stopped
Picture: Dorset Police
12-month community order with 100 hours unpaid work, and ordered to pay a £154 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.
After consultation with the Office of the Traffic Commissioners, the defendant had his HGV licence revoked for a further year and will be unable to reapply for his HGV licence until July 2029.
The defendant was also issued £1,100 fixed penalty notices due to a number of
tachograph breaches, including driving without a tachograph card, failing to maintain records, insufficient rest and driving period too long.
Police Sergeant Dave Cotterill, of the Dorset Roads Policing Team, said: “This month, as part of a national campaign we are putting the spotlight on the biggest killers on the roads in Dorset, known as the fatal five. The fatal five includes drink and drug driving, excessive and inappropriate speed, not wearing a seatbelt, driver distractions such as using a mobile phone and dangerous or careless driving.
“The defendant in this case was committing three of the five fatal five offences, putting not only himself but other road users in serious danger. He also admitted a series of tachograph breaches - rules that are put in place to safeguard the driver and the public.”
Trust's pledge over safety of NHS staff
SALISBURY NHS Foundation Trust has sent a “clear message” that staff safety is of the utmost importance.
The trust is the latest employer to sign up to UNISON’s end violence at work charter, which it says demonstrates its commitment to protecting healthcare staff from abuse, assault and threatening behaviour.
Signing up to the charter means the trust can demonstrate it has strong safeguarding policies in place as well as providing as much support as possible for staff who may experience violence at work.
UNISON South West regional secretary Kerry Baigent said: “No one should face violence or threats while simply doing their job. By signing, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust is sending a clear message to staff that their safety matters.”
The charter has a number of standards that employers must sign up to, including having
clear systems to report and investigate incidents, collecting and monitoring data, and
ensuring staff receive appropriate training.
UNISON Salisbury Health branch secretary, Mark Wareham, said: “Employees know first-hand how challenging and unpredictable working in the NHS can be.
Having the right support systems in place makes a real difference and the trust has taken an important step.”
Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust chief people officer Melanie Whitfield said: “We are pleased to be able to sign this charter.
“The safety and wellbeing of our staff is a top priority.
"We have a number of initiatives in place to protect colleagues and to take action when they experience abuse of any sort.
“We welcome feedback from staff as we continue to improve how we support their wellbeing and safety at work.”
Staff with the UNISON charter
European
Passion fruit for the Queen during
WILTSHIRE
had a very royal visit as Her Majesty Queen Camilla came to the county to celebrate a county community foundation.
The Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation (WSCF) welcomed Her Majesty to a special event at Wellington Barn in Calne on July 10 to mark its 50th anniversary.
The Salisbury area had a prominent role in the celebrations, as Queen Camilla met the Downton Brass Band, who provided a musical accompaniment throughout the event.
And she even enjoyed a passionfruit sorbet from Joanna Weaver, who sells artisan Italian gelato from her van in Salisbury.
Reflecting on the event – and the moment that she served Her Majesty The Queen – Joanna said: "It was an honour to serve Queen Camilla today; I hope she found her passion fruit sorbet refreshing on such a hot day.
"It was a good choice for a hot day. I was slightly surprised, as I was pre-warned that her favourite was salted caramel –so I was all ready to do salted caramel, and then she went for passion fruit."
WCSF has played a vital role as a connector for half a century
– bringing together people who care with causes that matter.
Whether by linking donors and partners with grassroots organisations, connecting groups with each other, or opening up new opportunities through shared knowledge and collaboration, the Foundation
helps strengthen communities across Wiltshire and Swindon. Her Majesty met a wide range of supporters and donors as well as individuals and groups who have received funding from the Foundation, heard their stories, and unveiled a commemorative 50th
Her Majesty The Queen cuts Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation’s 50th anniversary celebration cake Picture: Will Scammell
Her Majesty The Queen collects her ice cream from Joanna Weaver of Joanna’s Gelato, who was supported by Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation through the SWEF grants programme
Picture: Will Scammell
birthday visit!
Her Majesty The Queen meets Changing Suits CIC, a group who were supported by Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation. Changing Suits CIC is Swindon-based, and supports South Asian communities in overcoming cultural barriers and engaging with support services Picture: Will Scammell
Anniversary plaque, which was crafted and mounted by Tidworth and Ludgershall Men’s Shed.
Commenting on the event, joint chief executive Fiona Oliver, said: "It was a tremendous honour to mark the 50th anniversary of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen.
"This milestone celebrated all that can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose.
"Over the past five decades, the foundation has provided vital support to thousands of charities, community groups and individuals — strengthening communities, inspiring generosity, and helping to foster thriving local communities.
"None of this would be possible without the vision and commitment of our board, the dedication of our staff, and the incredible support of our donors, partners, volunteers and the wider voluntary sector.
"We are deeply grateful to all those who have contributed to
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During the event, the Foundation formally reintroduced Swindon into its name, announcing its updated identity as Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation.
The new name reflects both the breadth of the Foundation’s work and its origins — acknowledging Swindon as the town where the organisation was founded in 1975 by Lord Joel Joffe as the Thamesdown Community Trust.
In 1991, it merged with Wiltshire Community Trust to form the organisation known today, with a long-term vision of building an endowment fund to support communities across the county.
Over the last 50 years, the Foundation has awarded more than £26.8 million in grants, supporting hundreds of thousands of people across Wiltshire and Swindon.
Its funding has addressed a wide range of local issues — from poverty and rural isolation to mental health and domestic abuse.
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Mayor joins Stonehenge sleepout for city homelessness charity
ASALISBURY
homeless
charity is calling on supporters to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience this November.
On November 14, individuals can give up their beds for one night and sleep out at the iconic Stonehenge Visitor Centre – an opportunity to bring our community together to raise awareness and much-needed funds to break the cycle of homelessness.
Among those already pledged to take part in the Big Sleep at Stonehenge is the Salisbury Mayor, councillor John Wells.
He’s chosen Alabaré as his charity of the year during his time in office and said he’s excited to be involved.
“(Stonehenge) is a really good location from many points of view, not least because it attracts a lot of attention,” he said.
“I’m a little uneasy about sleeping out all night at the visitor centre, but I’m sure I’ll cope with it! I’ve slept outside on numerous occasions when I was younger, but it’s been some time since I’ve done it.
“I’m looking forward to joining in with the activity, meeting all the people that’ll be doing the same thing to raise money and I’m sure it’ll be a really exciting event, particularly being at Stonehenge for sunset and sunrise.
“It’ll be a unique opportunity, and I hope we raise lots of money.”
Amesbury Mayor, Cllr Dr Monica Devendran, has also been on hand to help launch the Big Sleep at Stonehenge.
She said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to support the Mayor of Salisbury with the Big Sleep.
“It’s a powerful reminder that people shouldn’t have to face a night without shelter and have a safe place to sleep, so it’s a fantastic initiative. Together we can make a difference.”
Places are limited to just 200 participants.
An Alabaré spokesperson said: “Every night, hundreds of thousands of people across the UK face the trauma of homelessness. At Alabaré, we believe one night can spark a lasting change for many.
“We sleep out to raise vital funds for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, so that we can provide safe, supported accommodation across the South West and Wales.”
Alabaré supporters can help individuals impacted by homelessness regain dignity, confidence, and hope for a fulfilling future.
The spokesperson added: “Together, we can break the cycle. Together, we can bring homes, hearts, and minds together for vulnerable people across the South West and Wales.”
Entry is £20 for adults and £10 for children. People are being asked to set a fundraising target of £175 for adults and £100 for children.
There will even be an opportunity to take part in stargazing with the Cranborne Chase National Landscape team, and a private sunrise visit to the Stonehenge monument for top fundraisers.
n Register now for the BIG Sleep at Stonehenge at https:// alabare.co.uk/events/the-bigsleep-stonehenge-wiltshire. Or sponsor the Mayor of Salisbury at https://www. justgiving.com/page/johnwells1.
Salisbury mayor, Cllr John Wells, with Dr Monica Devendran, Mayor of Amesbury and Alabare mascot, Roofus Picture: Submitted
Row breaks out after controversial commentator Katie Hopkins announces Salisbury show
KATIE
Hopkins is bringing her latest tour to Salisbury – sparking controversy in the city.
Her ‘Bats**t Bonkers Britain’ tour is coming to the City Hall on November 5 and promises to "call out the nonsense" of "idiots" in the media – and is styled as a stand-up tour.
Hopkins, described as a "professional troll" by The Guardian, is no stranger to controversy after she first emerged onto our screens in the third season of BBC One’s The Apprentice.
Her views have long sparked controversy, including calling for a "final solution" in dealing with terrorists following the Manchester terror attack – later walking back from this to say she meant to type "true solution".
She also garnered criticism for her extremist views on disabled people, migrants and Muslims.
Hopkins is facing protests across the country by many anti-racism groups following the announcement of her tour, while others are defending her appearances under free speech.
Now, the team at City Hall said it is aware of the dialogue surrounding her upcoming appearance, and it is proud to host many multicultural and inclusive events.
Their statement said: "As a venue, we firmly believe that everyone has the right to a place on our stage.
"The event in question is not a hate rally as it is being portrayed by some. It is a comedy show, reviews of which
state that Katie pokes fun at herself than anything else and we do not have concerns that the event will be anything other than the comedy show that has been promised.
"To limit those able to perform here because they may have opposing views and opinions would do a great disservice to the community.
"In the past we have played host to many controversial figures and comedians without issue and, as a venue, are not willing to play into the harmful cancel culture of recent years."
One commenter in support of the decision said: "Long live freedom of speech so that we can explore different opinions. The last thing we need for society is a sanitised single approved version of the truth."
However, another said:
"Thanks for confirming that City Hall is not a safe venue for me and fellow minority residents to attend in future! Always great to have a heads up."
Katie herself said: "For almost 20 years in the public eye I have stayed true to my beliefs.
"I am beyond thrilled to have a platform on which to shine a light about the things that matter to regular people in the UK.
"I have no paymaster and no one to please. I’m here telling it like it is because I really want people to know they are not alone.
"Being a part of this tour is not about me; it’s about knowing you belong.
"And together we will laugh hard at the insanity that surrounds us."
Bingo and Disney set to combine for Salisbury launch
BINGO - and Disney - lovers can look forward to a new event coming to Salisbury City Hall this September.
The debut show by Bongo's Bingo will be When You Wish Upon A Bingo – a Disney-inspired bingo special – taking place on September 26.
Visitors can expect Disney tunes, sing-alongs, unusual prizes and a sprinkle of mayhem - from dance-offs to rave rounds.
People are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite Disney characters and
channel the magic and mayhem at City Hall for the Bongo's Bingo launch.
Jonny Bongo, Bongo’s Bingo cofounder, said: "We’re all very excited for our run of late summer shows and to bring When You Wish Upon A Bingo to Salisbury as we debut there.
"Disney is such a classic theme to work with, and all of these shows across the UK are going to be off the scale.
"We know how much everyone absolutely loves Disney and the chance to dress up, so this debut date at City Hall is
not to be missed.
"And on top of this, we’re introducing lots of new prizes each month at Bongo’s Bingo.
"We felt it was time to have a refresh, so whilst we’re keeping the classics, we’ve got some amazing new prizes to introduce to everyone in Salisbury."
Tickets for Bongo’s Bingo are available via bongosbingo.co.uk/eventdate/11274/bongos-bingo-salisburypresents-when-you-wish-upon-abingo-260925.
Right-wing commentator Katie Hopkins has long aired controversial view on a range of topics
Plans for 74 new homes approved
FORDINGBRIDGE
is set to see 74 new houses built after plans were approved.
The homes, at Forde Valley, a mile northwest of the town centre, form the first phase of Sandle Park, a 342-home development by Pennyfarthing Homes.
The application also included 1,700 new trees, a play area, informal open spaces and a 2.4-hectare alternative natural
recreational green space.
The first phase will see 25% of the homes designated as affordable, which includes shared ownership schemes, affordable rent and first homes.
Housing options range from one-to-three-bed apartments in a manor-style building to two-and-three bed bungalows, and spacious two, three and four-bed houses.
A Pennyfarthing
spokesperson said the homes received “overwhelming support”.
"We are delighted to have received overwhelming support from New Forest District Council’s planning committee for the first 74 homes at Sandle Park," they went on.
"Members of the planning committee praised the layout and appearance of the development, including the
feature apartment building and the use of bungalows in the layout.
"The mix of properties will serve a range of homebuyers’ needs here in Fordingbridge, creating a diverse community with a deep sense of connection to nature, thanks to its abundance of greenspaces."
Work on the development is expected to start later this year, they added.
Sports day combines with opening
ASCHOOL near Fordingbridge enjoyed a day to remember recentlywhen sports coincided with a special opening.
Western Downland CofE Primary School pupils enjoyed sports day, as well as the grand opening of the school’s brandnew outdoor classroom.
The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Ann Felicity (Fizz) Thompson DL, deputy lieutenant for Hampshire, who joined headteacher Mrs Alice Tubbs in officially declaring the space open. In her speech, Mrs Tubbs praised the extraordinary teamwork behind the build.
"This space is far more than just a classroom — it is a symbol of what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose," she said.
"It wasn’t just built with tools and timber, but with heart, teamwork, and a real sense of community. You have built more than a classroom—you have built a legacy."
She said the outdoor classroom would serve as "an inspiring, nature-connected environment where our children can learn, explore and thrive".
Mrs Thompson echoed the message of shared vision and opportunity.
"This moment marks more than just the unveiling of
outside walls – it’s a celebration of opportunity," she said.
"A space like this represents a shared belief in the power of education to inspire, nurture curiosity and prepare young minds for a bright future.
"To all the children, teachers, parents and the community: this space is yours.
"It’s a place to ask questions, explore big ideas, and grow— not only in knowledge but also in confidence and creativity.
"Let’s hope it will be filled with laughter, learning, and a spark of discovery."
With the ribbon officially cut and the cheers still echoing, it was time for the main event: Sports Day.
With the weather on their side, children threw themselves into the spirit of the day –literally in some cases - in classic events such as sprint, javelin, egg-and-spoon, jumping, and the three-legged race.
The relay finale brought high energy and high drama, while pre-schoolers from Little Foresters, the school’s on-site preschool, were invited to join in if they wished.
Of course, no sports day would be complete without the infamous parent race and the crowd-favourite teacher race - both of which delivered on entertainment and enthusiasm, a spokesperson added.
Antiques & Collectibles
Costume jewellery proving popular
CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham has over eight years of experience in running an auction house and has built a reputation for knowledgeable service, transparent sales and outstanding results.
Its friendly, professional team understands the unique value and history of every item and treats each piece with the care and attention it deserves.
It makes the process simple and stress-free for anyone downsizing, settling an estate, looking to sell a single item or a whole collection.
The market is constantly evolving and demand for striking designer pieces and timeless antiques is growing.
The younger generation is leaning towards the minimalist look, while the older generation is downsizing and simplifying
its collections. Despite shifting trends, high-quality gold and fine jewellery remain in vogue, and costume jewellery has seen a surge in value and desirability, sometimes rivalling that of traditional gold and silver pieces.
So, if anyone has a bag of costume jewellery tucked away in a drawer or has old pieces they no longer wear, now may be the time to have them appraised.
Clarke’s is taking entries for its August Antiques & Collectibles sale and for enquiries about consignment, probate or insurance valuations, full or part house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
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Police officers took dog into kennels after rescuing it from hot car
POLICE took a dog into kennels after rescuing it from a hot car.
Wiltshire officers have warned people to be aware of the potential dangers to their pets as temperatures look set to soar in the coming days.
At around 8.30am on Wednesday (July 9), officers in Swindon seized a large dog from a car in Stirling Road, South Marston, after receiving reports the animal was in distress.
PC Paul Croft, Dog Legislation Officer in Wiltshire, said: “Leaving a dog in a car on a day like today could be fatal. We have seized the dog and have taken it to kennels where it will be cared for.
“The owner of the dog has been spoken to and will be invited in for an interview under Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which is causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.
“Over the next few days we will be having very hot weather. Please do not leave your dog inside a hot car. The temperature in the vehicle will be a lot hotter than it feels outside and can cause serious injury to the animal.
“If you do see a dog left in a hot car and it is in distress please do call 999. "
The police spokesperson added: "Don’t try to force entry to the vehicle yourself as you may be committing an offence.”
Moby on the move!
A THREE-year-old Patterdale cross called Moby is looking for his fur-ever family.
He is bursting with energy, charm and love to give to his new family and he is currently waiting at Dogs Trust Salisbury Rehoming Centre.
Moby loves toys and placing his little paws on his favourite humans to ask for attention. Whether it’s a game of tug or a good scratch behind the ears, he is always ready to play.
Although he enjoys walks and adventures with other dogs, he would prefer to be the only dog at home, where he can enjoy peace and quiet and a cosy spot to snooze after a fun-filled day.
Moby thrives on structure and enjoys training sessions, so an adult-only home that can offer him consistency, enrichment, and time will help him shine.
Claire Rowe, rehoming centre manager, said: “Moby is a really fun and clever dog who absolutely loves his toys and a good run around outside. His energy is infectious, and he’d make a rewarding addition to a family willing to continue his training and provide the mental stimulation that Patterdales need.”
Moby is lovingly known as a Dogs Trust ‘underdog’, a term used by the charity for some of the dogs who have been waiting for their forever home for more than six months.
These dogs often require additional training, ongoing veterinary care, or have specific rehoming needs. Unfortunately, some are also simply overlooked.
Home Euthanasia For Your Pet
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In Trisha’s experience as a practicing veterinarian she always found that having your family pet put to sleep in your own home was far less stressful for the pet. It is also far more comforting for the pet owners and family involved in comparison to the standard method of having to take your pet to the veterinary clinic to be euthanised. Angel Paws is specifically and thoughtfully designed to change this experience by providing a personalised home visit service for pets and their devoted owners.
Compassionate Home Euthanasia Service For Your Beloved Pet
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Home & Garden
Dead-heading roses in the height of summer makes for pleasant work!
by Sally Gregson
THE sun is at its zenith. The days are long. The evenings are light and warm. Roses fill the garden with scent.
It’s time to get the chairs out around the garden table and indulge in a little hedonism. And it’s then that you notice the borders need weeding and the roses need dead-heading.
Refreshed with a glass of home-made lemonade, removing the spent rose flowers does not seem quite so bad.
And it’s a job that is well worth undertaking on a warm evening with a pair of sharp secateurs in hand.
Dead-heading onceflowering shrub roses is best looked on as a form of pruning.
The ‘old roses’ – those with romantic names like Rosa Belle de Crecy, R. Nuits de Young, or R. Ispahan, can be cut back to an outward-facing bud lower down the stem, taking note of the eventual shape of the whole shrub.
And once-flowering ramblers such as R. Goldfinch, R. Veilchenblau or R. Rambling Rector should really have the entire flowering stem cut right out.
This sounds easy, but, as with all roses, the vicious prickles make it difficult.
They will flower next season on the long new shoots made this summer, so it’s really a matter of cutting back the flowered shoots as much as possible.
Modern roses such as the New English Roses, the traditional climbers and named roses that repeat flower, really do benefit from dead-heading.
Thwarting their motherhood results in the plant producing lots more flower-buds.
Some have a rest from flowering after such radical treatment, but they will come back and flower again later in the summer.
If you are considering
How to take pinks cuttings
by Sally Gregson
THIS year may be frighteningly parched and dry, but the sun has shone, the flowers have blown and everywhere has been alive with bees and butterflies.
For the gardener who isn’t short of water, it has been quite spectacular.
Now that the calendar has gone past the mid-point of the year, it’s time to take advantage of summer’s bounty.
If we get a cooler spell, perhaps with a little gentle rain, it’s time to take summer cuttings.
Pinks are an easy favourite, and cuttings rooted now can be potted up before autumn and ready to plant out next spring. With a sharp knife or scissor-cut secateurs, cut off non-flowering shoots, about 10cm long, just below a node – that is the knobbly section of the stem.
Remove the lowest leaves and the growing tip of the shoot. Then dip each in a little fresh hormone rooting powder. This is not essential for
ordering new roses for planting this winter, it would be well worth visiting gardens close by with a pencil and paper.
Catalogue descriptions of unfamiliar roses often fail to note weak necks, disease resistance, or the lack of it, or flowers that ‘die badly’ – that is the dead, brown petals hang on to the flower head after they are over.
It’s the sort of detail that becomes more important in future years. Then, re-enthused, you can put in an order for delivery from November.
‘Next year’ every gardener just knows, ‘will be wonderful’.
rooting pinks, in particular, but might help a little.
Using a thin stick, make holes around the edge of a clean, shallow pot filled with a mixture of potting compost and sharp grit.
The ‘cuttings compost’ should be more gritty than usual – pinks like a dry soil. But they will need watering in well to settle the compost around the cuttings.
Label the pot with the name of the pink – they are indistinguishable once their flowers are gone – the number of cuttings taken and the date. Place the pot somewhere shaded and cool without enclosing it in a plastic bag. Keep an eye on the cuttings but try to resist pulling them to test for roots. Tidy away any dead ones and keep the pot watered.
Once the roots start to appear through the drainage holes of the pot, the cuttings can be tipped out and potted individually into small, 9cm pots, then watered, individually labelled and put somewhere sheltered, out of the direct sun. In winter, especially if it’s wet, keep the pots somewhere dry or under glass. They will be ready to plant out next spring.
Pinks like Dianthus plumarius like a dry soil
Cryptic crossword
Across
1 I smoke oddly as Arctic resident? (6)
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
4 Second character infused with energy making one afraid (6)
8 Work in place by yard (3)
9 I claim rep is wrong based on observation (9)
11 Charge for speed (4)
12 US actress with delicate requirement in the morning? (8)
15 Old boy before sitting has mania (9)
18 Name fine tidy ground (8)
Down
1 Trial independent men carried out for professional specialist (6)
2 Essential and effective action – it’s used types? (9)
3 Suitable food for a carnivore, we’re told 5 Man, 50, in charge of Russian alphabet
6 Sure foundation reported for enormous bird (3)
7 Expand article in Italy within appointed time (6)
19 Impediment making rough sound (4)
21 Same row lot endlessly excited making scientific regulation (6,3)
23 Northern party retracted sign of approval (3)
24 Head gets bent stripping off part of a flower (6)
25 Rank say acquired by doctor with case of evidence (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.
10 Flare-ups I dissipated offering commendation? (9)
13 One secretly bringing in pieces? (9)
14 Waiter’s ordered close to table so to speak (2,2,4)
16 Piece on navigational aid – means of organizing a display? (6)
17 Span raised platform on ship (6)
carried out for professional specialist (6)
20 Woman in support is affectedly pretty (4)
Essential and effective action – it’s used with types? (9)
22 Hard work with time gone to produce commodity (3)
Suitable food for a carnivore, we’re told (4)
Man, 50, in charge of Russian alphabet (8) 6 Sure foundation reported for enormous bird (3)
7 Expand article in Italy within appointed time (6) 10 Flare-ups I dissipated offering commendation? (9) 13 One secretly bringing in pieces? (9)
Waiter’s ordered close to table so to speak (2,2,4)
16 Piece on navigational aid – means of organizing a display? (6) 17 Span raised platform on ship (6) 20 Woman in support is affectedly pretty (4)
Hard work with time gone to produce commodity (3)
Politics
A week in the life of a councillor
AMI enjoying it, being a local councillor? For me it’s the wrong question.
Take this week: Monday morning dawned with me in Victoria Park checking out a group of travellers.
They had smashed down a solid wooden gate to gain entry causing criminal damage.
I then had to meet a senior councillor who wanted to know, ‘How it was all going?’.
Then back to my day job, as I was responsible for completing the risk assessment and paperwork that would allow a battery-powered experimental aircraft to fly to the Royal International Air Tattoo at Fairford.
Phone calls and emails continued through the night. Just time to meet with fellow Conservatives to discuss our relatively poor election result before dashing to SCC Full Council meeting at 6pm, where I proposed a motion to re-open the Central Car Park toilets without delay.
Frustration ensued, with several options for the Market
'What
IREADSquare Toilets also being discussed – I thought we were on track to make some decisions but suddenly one councillor floated the idea of a ‘working group’ to discuss the options further!
Councillors who have spent the last few months knocking on the doors of all their residents are already painfully aware of all the various views – but now we will squander months rediscovering what we already know – without the toilets being opened!
Tuesday began with a useful meeting of local charities and council representatives, which
Cllr Chris Taylor Conservative councillor for Salisbury St Paul’s on Salisbury City Council and a Wiltshire Councillor
about whether he needs planning permission followed by a pre-council ‘meeting before the meeting’ with my fellow Wiltshire Councillors!
was followed by a less-than-fun meeting with National Highways discussing urgent local road issues.
The only ray of sunshine was a plan to upgrade the roundabout traffic lights from analogue to digital control next year which might allow better sequencing to perhaps reduce the current gridlock.
Wednesday, day job, I visited a helicopter manufacturer in Shropshire before dashing back to Salisbury for the opening of a new eatery – Chicktales.
Thursday I met with residents of the Platinum Skies on Wilton Road and a chap concerned
Friday was more Highways briefings and a positive meeting with the local highways officer to discuss a number of improvements I have in the pipeline including the lower Devizes Road Zebra Crossing, a cycle contraflow and improvements to the ‘Killer Kerb’ of South Western Road.
Later, I checked out the new cycle contraflow road signs on Rollestone Street – great result(!) – attended the opening of Fayre on the Square, before having a working supper with our local MP, John Glen.
The highlight of the week was acting as unpaid auctioneer for a charity auction in the Bistro at Platinum Skies –thanks to some very generous gifts and, obviously, my near-professional auctioneering skills, we raised over £1,400 for the Alzheimer’s Society which left many of us moved to tears. I enjoyed that bit!
else is being covered up?'
with a mix of interest and unfathomable incredulity, the absolute stupidity that lead to the Ministry of defence leak, during the fall of Afghanistan.
The news was awash with video clips reminiscing of the frantic US pull out of Vietnam. Do we learn nothing from history?
Anyway, it’s not the leak that bothers me so much as the way it was hidden. Oh yes, we can all see the need for state secrecy, but this was hidden from the state itself. Not even the top secret special sub committees knew of its existence.
We can only assume the then-Prime Minister was briefed about what was going on with their Super Injunction forbidding not only the press
King Arthur Pendragon Former and proposed Independent Parliamentary candidate for Salisbury
but the rest of government from knowing about what was happening. We only know now because it’s a differing political party in power and they of course want to score points over the other lot. Begs the question though, how much more is there to come out as we are drip fed the information of what was actually leaked, and how many more so-called super injunctions
are there in place?
How much more do they deem not in our interests to know about?
You don’t have to be a conspiracy theorist to see the conspiracy here, or to wonder what else has been covered up by those who think they know what is best we know, and what we are not allowed to know.
With this government increasingly censoring what we can and cannot say and the previous censoring what we can and cannot know, it's little wonder we are losing what little faith remains in our so called elected representativesespecially when they always seem to put the party first and the people a very poor second. Until next time.
Farewell - and thanks - to Kelvin
THEReverend Kelvin Inglis officially ended his eight years as Rector of St Thomas’s Church at the Parish Communion Service on Sunday, July 20.
Kelvin will take up his new position at the Church of St Mary and St Mellor in Amesbury.
He will be greatly missed by his congregation but leaves behind a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of the community he served selflessly.
Rev Inglis’s leadership has been especially meaningful during some of Salisbury’s most challenging times. In the wake of the Novichok poisonings in 2018, when fear, confusion and sorrow settled over our city, he was among the first to step forward, not only with words, but with action. He created a space for prayer and reflection just outside St Thomas’s, offering comfort to those passing by and daffodils to the police officers and emergency teams standing guard.
His deep care for the community continued through the Covid-19 pandemic, when isolation, loss and uncertainty touched so many lives.
Rev Inglis made sure that St Thomas’s remained a place of connection, compassion and creativity. Whether through reimagined services, community concerts or reflective
Cllr John Wells is an independent Salisbury City Councillor for St Francis and Stratford and a Wiltshire Councillor, as well as mayor of Salisbury
living, breathing community hub. With flexible space, cultural events and a spirit of radical welcome, Rev Inglis has opened the doors wide, not just to believers, but to the curious, the doubtful, the artistic, the searching and the hurting.
I had the privilege of formally thanking Kelvin for his service to the city after the service on Sunday on behalf of the Salisbury City Councillors, officers and former mayors and councillors he supported the past eight years.
exhibitions, he found ways to keep the church open - not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally, to all.
And perhaps most inspiring of all is his ability to reach those who might never have thought church was for them.
Under his leadership, St Thomas’s has become more than a place of worship. It is a
Kelvin demonstrated that the role of the Church is not to stand apart from the world, but to walk alongside it - to meet people where they are, and to bring light, peace and joy wherever it can.
We are all grateful for his leadership, courage, inclusiveness, sense of humour and enduring faith in this community.
Salisbury is stronger, kinder and more connected because of his endeavours.
Council leaders continue devolution push
COUNCIL leaders across the Wessex area are once again pushing for devolution and the creation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority for Wessex.
Leaders from Wiltshire, Dorset, Somerset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) have said they will work together on three projects aimed at delivering “tangible benefits” for residents as they look to get devolution plans back on track.
The announcement comes after the Wessex leaders were unsuccessful in their bid to create a new combined authority in the first phase of a government rollout, which would have seen resources pooled across the four authorities as part of the Labour administration's devolution plans.
The Wessex Partnership now plans to launch three proposals to reinvigorate the Heart of Wessex combined authority.
This includes creating a Wessex joint growth plan to coordinate economic development, housing and infrastructure investment and a Wessex local nature
recovery strategy to look after the region’s green spaces.
Plans for infrastructure have also been discussed, which would see a future spatial development strategy created as well as work to deliver more reliable, affordable, and greener public transport across urban and rural communities, the leaders said.
In a joint statement, the leaders of Somerset, Dorset, BCP and Wiltshire Councils - Councillors Bill Revans, Ian Thorn, Millie Earl and Nick Ireland, pictured - said: “This is an important step forward for the Wessex Partnership.
“By working together, we are showing that our region is ready to take on greater powers and responsibilities.
“These projects reflect our shared priorities – better transport, a thriving natural environment and sustainable economic growth.
“We are united in our ambition to secure a devolution deal that delivers real benefits for our communities.”
The leaders said they remain in conversation with the government about the devolution plans and the establishment of a Mayoral Strategic Authority.
The authorities are aimed at bringing greater local control over funding, planning and service delivery.
The Wessex partnership is also looking to central government for support for whether Wessex could host the proposed UK Defence Innovation facility, a Wessex Defence Catapult, and engagement with the MOD, including NAD, DIO and Defence Digital to support innovation, including spin-out spaces and retaining the UK Health Security Agency at Porton to support the life sciences cluster in a secure location with a skilled population.
'Tax will put people off farming'
ANEXECUTIVE at UK retailer Marks and Spencer has hit out at planned changes to inheritance tax for farmers.
Steve McLean, pictured, head of agriculture and fisheries at the chain, said plans to impose a 20% inheritance tax - half the usual rate - on assets worth more than £1 million would put young people off pursuing careers in farming.
A government spokesperson said the reforms are "vital to fix the public services we all rely on", but Mr McLean told BBC Wales the policy will "definitely" be a "deterrent for young people coming into the industry".
Farming unions, including the NFU, have opposed the planned changes, which are set to come into force from April next year.
However, the government
says "three quarters of estates will continue to pay no inheritance tax at all, while the remaining quarter will pay half the inheritance tax that most people pay, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free".
Mr McLean was speaking at the Royal Welsh Show, in Llanelwedd and said he was "very, very clear" agriculture should be treated differently by the government.
"The whole taxation system was devised to recognise that the margins of profitability in agriculture weren't like other industries," he said.
"That's why you had a difference in how the inheritance tax approach was set up."
And Mr McLean warned the changes would "impact confidence".
"They definitely will be a deterrent for young people coming into the industry, and we want to see a vibrant, viable farming structure where young people can come in and make a good living and be proud of what they do," he said.
"So being able to give greater surety, greater security is going to be key to viable farming structure going forward."
A UK government spokesperson added: "Our commitment to farming and food security is steadfast, which is why we've allocated a record £11.8bn to sustainable farming and food production over this parliament and appointed former NFU president Baroness Minette Batters to recommend new reforms to boost farmers profits."
HOT topics by Gareth Foden - Veterinary Surgeon, Synergy Farm Health
This month many of our livestock have experienced heat stress, leading to problems such as milk drop, photosensitisation and reduced conception rates.
Mitigating heat stress is always a challenge but worth a conversation at your next vet visit. With the warm and muggy days, flies and ticks have been causing issues with flystrike and redwater across our region, and not always in the animals you might expect.
Congratulations to Synergy Vet Pete O’Malley
We are so proud to announce that our vet and shareholder Pete O’Malley (North Regional lead) is a finalist in this year’s Farmers Weekly Awards in the ‘Farm Advisor of the Year’ category! What a great achievement - we can’t wait for the awards ceremony in October! Congratulations also to our clients Ollie Blackburn of Dillington Farms and Chris Berry of Higher Thornton Farm on also reaching the finals in their respective categories.
Motoring with David Young
DRIVING
tests have been compulsory for 90 years, but only a third of drivers are sure they would pass a driving test retake.
New research, from the AA Driving School, launched to coincide with the anniversary, shows only 32% of drivers are very confident they would pass a retake of their practical test today.
Just 17% felt the same about a retake of their theory test.
As might be expected, younger drivers were more likely to feel very confident about passing a retake compared to those over 65 (40% against 30%).
When asked why they thought they would fail, in both the practical and theory tests, the top five reasons were:
Practical test: 1 bad habits (73%), 2 nerves (33%), 3 reversing manoeuvres (30%), 4 following a sat nav (25%), 5 mirrors/attitude to other road users/other (all 13%).
Theory test: 1 Highway Code knowledge (88%), 2 other area of theory (50%), 3 rules of the road (46%), 4 knowledge of road signs (38%), 5 hazard perception (32%).
Compulsory testing was
brought in on June 1, 1935, for all drivers and riders who started driving on or after April 1, 1934. Prior to this, testing had been voluntary.
The driving test has changed considerably over time, as these comparisons show:
n Pass rate: 1935 – 63%, 2025 – 49%.
n Duration: 1935 – 30 minutes driving, 2025 – 40 minutes driving, 80 minutes theory test.
Requirements: 1935 – hill start, emergency stop, Highway Code knowledge, correct use of arm signals; 2025 – eyesight check, general driving ability, reversing vehicle, 20 minutes independent driving, ‘Show Me Tell Me’ questions, separate theory test.
n Number of examiners: 1935 – 250; 2025 – 1,627.
n Test centres: 1935 – none –candidates met examiners somewhere like a post office or train station; 2025 – about 320 centres offer practical car driving tests.
n Cost: 1935 – 7s 6D; 2025 –Practical £63 (weekdays), £75 (evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays), Theory – £23.
n Annual road deaths: 1935 – 7,343; 2025 – 1,607 (projected).
BSM, founded in 1910 before
How the driving test has changed over 90 years
the compulsory driving test, is the UK’s oldest driving school, and is owned by the AA.
Emma Bush, managing director of AA Driving School, said: “The driving test was introduced to help stem the tide of rising road deaths.
“Safety has remained at its core and over time more features have been added to help ensure new drivers are as prepared as possible for life on the road.
“Learners today can take lessons with a qualified instructor on the motorway and must show they can follow directions from a sat nav or road signs.
“It’s a robust test, so it’s no wonder so many qualified drivers think they would struggle with a retest.
“With electric vehicles gaining popularity; autonomous vehicle technology evolving and an ever greater focus on road safety, the next 90 years will undoubtedly bring many more
changes to the test and process of learning to drive.”
Another big change to the driving test is the recent increase in waiting times to book a slot. New data, from a Freedom of Information request to the DVSA by AA Driving School, shows average waiting times for a driving test have reached a new high, with learners typically facing waits of 21.3 weeks.
The number of driving test centres showing the maximum wait of 24 weeks has risen to 79% of test centres (as of April 7, 2025).
In just two months the number of test centres with 24-week waits rose from 183 in February 2025 to 253 at the start of April 2025, an increase of 38%.
There has been a small increase in the number of test centres with waits at or below the DVSA’s target of seven weeks, from 14 in February 2025 to 20 in April 2025.
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A CHARITY road run featuring 80 classic and modern cars raised more than £17,000 for the Stars Appeal, Salisbury’s Hospital Charity.
The Boys’ Treasured Toys event on June 24 saw more than 200 people arrive at Wilton House in style as they showed off their cool collection made up of Humbers, Morris Minors, Porsches, Maseratis, Ferraris, Morgans, and vintage Land Rovers.
The fundraising event first started in 2017 and has raised more than £60,000 in total since then.
Money raised by the event helps fund Stars Appeal projects across Salisbury Hospital, including state-of-the-art equipment, enhancements to
buildings, and the charity’s ongoing work like Stars Appeal Wi-Fi and support for patients with cancer.
Stars Appeal president, the Earl of Pembroke, welcomed the event’s participants to Wilton House before setting off on a 100-mile route around the Wiltshire countryside.
Drivers of older cars had the opportunity to take a shorter route.
The Boys’ Treasured Toys road run route took participants to Urchfont, where guests were hosted at the private home of Martin and Sally Bodman before finishing at Gurston Down Hill Climb by kind permission of the Hitchings family.
Here they enjoyed a cream
tea and an exclusive opportunity to experience driving their cars up the famous hill climb course.
Drivers and passengers made donations to take part in the event, which was organised by Louise Hall, Matthew Pickford and Nick Combes.
Lead organiser and Stars
Appeal fundraising committee member, Louise Hall, thanked all involved.
“It was such an incredible day that really had the wow factor. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event for your amazing generosity."
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