WHY IS A MOVIE STAR PULLING
What’s inside this issue…
• Main pic: Joy as 'vibrant' River Park play area opens page 16
• Above: Stalwart Stars funraiser Sybil still going storng at 100 page 12
• Left: Wine merchant makes a tasty move new base in Salisbury page 21
EDITORIAL
Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@salisburyandavon.co.uk
Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186
Kye Harman Sports Editor sports@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186
Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937
07714 289411
Hollywood star turns his hand to pulling pints in bid to save pub
AHOLLYWOOD
actor has turned his hand to pulling pints at his local pub as part of a campaign to save it from closure.
The Swan, the only pub in the village of Enford - between Salisbury and Pewsey - closed on June 22 due to rising costs.
But the pub, which has stood for 350 years, reopened on August 8 after villagers who had previously watched their local bakery, post office and shop disappear banded together to save the village’s last remaining amenity.
The volunteer-led operation saw people spend their free time to repair and paint the Grade II listed building, as well as taking a crash course in bar work.
One of those volunteers keen to see the pub stay open is actor Rupert Everett, who many will recognise as the voice of Prince Charming in the Shrek films, as well as appearing in a number of high-profile Hollywood films, such as 1984 drama Another Country, My Best Friend’s Wedding alongside Julia Roberts, and in the dual role of Camilla and Carnaby Fritton in the 2007 St Trinian’s remake.
More recently he wrote, directed and starred in the Oscar Wilde biopic, The Happy Prince, and he also starred alongside Joaquin Phoenix in the Oscar-nominated 2023 film,
Napoleon.
Rupert, who lives in the area, is now one of 30 volunteers who man the bar at The Swan, with his new role seeing him pulling pints for thirsty customers - and not fluffing his lines.
He said: “There has been an amazing effort by the community to keep this pub open.
"Times are hard for rural pubs and this is the heart and hub of the village.
"I think that it is important to express my support.
“I have recently joined CAMRA – the Campaign for Real Ale – as I know that real ale is the lifeblood of pubs both locally and nationally.
We are family run business and have been building our reputation within the Hampshire and Dorset region since 2007. Since then we have continued to supply quality products fitted by qualified FENSA MTC fitters. We tailor each installation to our customers requirements.
Our Verwood showroom has a wide range of the latest doors and windows available, please feel free to visit for a no obligation quote.
Our Verwood showroom has a wide range of the latest doors and windows available please feel free to visit for a no obligation quotation.
Hollywood star Rupert Everett behind the bar at The Swan, pictured below left
Tributes to parish stalwart, Derek
TRIBUTES
have been paid to a parish stalwart Derek Hayes - who was awarded the Freedom of the Parish - after he passed away.
Mr Hayes spent the past 18 years serving as a councillor on Laverstock & Ford Parish Council, representing the Laverstock and Milford Ward with “dedication and distinction” from 2006 until his retirement.
He sadly died on August 6 and his funeral took place at the Salisbury Crematorium on August 19.
Upon his retirement, Derek was awarded the Freedom of the Parish in recognition of his exceptional service to the community and his unwavering commitment to its residents.
For many years, he was the voice behind the Parish Pump articles in the parish newsletter, regularly contributing items that celebrated the benefits and positive aspects of parish life.
Councillor Ian McDonald said: “His legacy is woven into the fabric of the parish, and the parish council.”
Laverstock & Ford Parish Council said Derek’s professional career in mental health gave him a “unique understanding” of residents' needs. He championed the
introduction of technology to enable residents to remotely access and participate in council meetings, and he ensured the parish newsletter remained available both in print and digital formats - recognising the importance of keeping all residents informed, including those less engaged with online communication.
Fellow retired councillor, former parish newsletter editor and friend, David Law, reflected on Derek’s inspirational character and gentle spirit.
“I first met Derek around 2008 when I attended a council
£20,000 worth of
THIEVES broke into a garage in Fordingbridge and stole bikes – worth in excess of £20,000.
New Forest Police said the theft took place at a Godshill Wood property some time between 11pm on Friday, August 22, and 8am the following day.
The stolen bikes were a Santa Cruz Nomad, a Merida Reacto, a Santa Cruz Blur and a Santa Cruz Bronson.
Police are now appealing for any witnesses
to get in touch.
meeting asking the public to assist in the creation of the parish plan,” he said.
“Derek’s enthusiasm for the project encouraged me to join the two-year development of the plan under his guidance. His passion for the welfare of the parish and its residents encouraged me to become a councillor, and we worked together on many projects, starting with the creation of the community farm.
“Derek’s contribution was not limited to desk work—he actively helped in clearing the site and volunteered at
community events. He also assisted other charities and served as a director of Carer Support Wiltshire for nine years.
“A published author, one of his historical novels was based on the South Sea Bubble. I always knew that if ever I had a problem, Derek would be the person to whom I could turn, knowing that his support would be there. A true gentleman who will be greatly missed.”
The parish council extended "deepest sympathies, thoughts, and prayers to Derek’s wife Jenny, and family at this difficult time".
bikes stolen in Fordingbridge
A spokesperson for the force said: "If you were in the area between the times mentioned above, and recall seeing anything of the incident, please contact 101 and quote incident number 44250381747.
"Additionally, we’d like to hear from you if you have any footage of the incident, including CCTV, dash cam, mobile phone or doorbell camera, or have seen the bikes described since the incident."
Derek Hayes was awarded the freedom of the parish of Laverstock and Ford after his retirement from the council
The bikes stolen from a property at Godshill Wood
Picture: Hampshire Police
GS WINDOWS
£2,075
£2,755
£3,450
£4,140
£4,820
£5,515
£6,205
£6,905
£8,760
£9,570
£10,370
£11,170
£11,965
£7,585
£8,280
£8,970
New stairs at nature spot
A NEW stone staircase has been created at the Avon Valley Nature Reserve in Salisbury to make it safer for dogs to access the water.
The work comes after Salisbury City Council, alongside volunteers from the Salisbury Wildlife Group, completed riverbank repairs to restore an area that had ben worn down by dogs accessing the water.
A council spokesperson said: “Despite tough conditions, volunteers powered through to create something that benefits both the community and the environment.
“Thank you to all the volunteers.”
Floyd tribute at City Hall
A PINK Floyd tribute act is coming to Salisbury to celebrate 50 years since the release of the iconic album, Wish You Were Here.
UK Pink Floyd Experience will recreate the electric atmosphere of Floyd live at the City Hall on October 11.
A new show for 2025 includes the songs from Wish You Were Here plus more from The Division Bell, The Wall, Animals and The Dark Side of The Moon.
A City Hall spokesperson said: “Come and share the passion for Pink Floyd’s music, in our true celebration of all things Floyd.”
Tickets are £31.90 and can be purchased online.
Day centre's trustee deadline
ADAY
centre in Mere could close if a treasurer and trustee are not found before the end of the year.
The Mere and District Day Centre, in Springfield Road, has a deadline of December 31 to fill the roles.
The centre, which has been running for more than 30 years, is well used with 14 guests and two sessions held a week.
Councillor George Jeans (Independent, Mere) said: “It was hoped a new improved facility at the proposed rebuilt Fives Court would be used in years to come.
“The centre hopes someone in this area will come forward,
they do not have to live in Mere, those well outside Mere would be welcome.”
It was suggested that Wiltshire Council has withdrawn funding from day centres across the county in recent years.
But Wiltshire Council said that funding has not been withdrawn from the day centre in Mere.
Cllr Gordon King, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Wiltshire Council has not withdrawn funding from Mere and District Day Centre and we have not received any requests from them for an uplift in funding.
“If the centre is currently seeking to appoint a treasurer and trustee, we’re happy to offer guidance and signpost to resources that may assist with this process.
“We can help connect the centre with local networks and organisations that support community governance and recruitment, including platforms where these roles can be advertised and advice on best practice for trustee appointments. We would encourage the centre to get in touch so we can explore how best to support them.”
Contact at meredaycentre. org.uk/contact-us-2.
Chance to discuss crime at Salisbury meeting
A SPECIAL meeting in Salisbury will provide an opportunity for residents to speak to police and other partners about crime issues in the city.
The Salisbury Area Board meeting will take place at 5.30pm on Thursday (September 11) at City Hall –the first time the area board has returned to the city since 2020.
The theme of the meeting is All Things Crime and Community Safety, and attendees will be able to take part in discussions surrounding anti-social behaviour and other safety concerns.
There will be presentations
from key organisations, including updates on Wiltshire’s Community Safety Partnership and the launch of Salisbury’s new Business Crime Reduction Network.
Councillor Mel Jacob, cabinet member for communities at Wiltshire Council, said: “We’re really pleased to be bringing the Salisbury Area Board back to City Hall, a familiar and accessible venue right in the heart of the city.
“This special meeting is a great opportunity for residents to hear directly from the organisations working to keep our communities safe, and to
share their own experiences and ideas. We hope to see lots of people there.”
A range of partner agencies will be present to share updates and speak with residents, including:
Wiltshire’s Community Safety Partnership
Local Police Team
Police and Crime Commissioner
Wiltshire Council ASB leads Business Crime Reduction Lead
Salisbury Safe Places
Salisbury Soroptimists
Bobby Van
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service
The meeting is open to all, and booking is not required.
The Mere and District Day Centre's recent AGM
Recycling rates increase to 43.7%
AS residents are being encouraged to ensure they are vigilantly recycling their waste, your Salisbury & Avon Gazette has looked at the figures behind how much recycling collected in the county was actually sent to landfill instead.
Wiltshire Council boasted an improved recycling rate from 2022/2023 to 2023/2024, with rates improving from 40% to 43.7%, as the council collected 48,751 tonnes of recycling in 2023/24.
Over the past financial year 2024/25, the council collected “just over” 44,000 tonnes of recycling from households and a total of 89,850 tonnes when including garden waste and materials from household recycling centres
But 4,672 tonnes of household recycling, 10.6%, was rejected and sent to landfill, with a further 6,894 tonnes diverted to energy-from-waste
facilities, such as the Northacre waste facility in Westbury.
13.4% of all household waste collected in the county was actually send to landfill – a figure Wiltshire Council said it is “working hard to reduce”.
“We continue to make steady progress in improving our recycling efforts and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill,” councillor Paul Sample JP, cabinet member for environment, climate and waste, said.
He added: “Over the past
three years, kerbside recycling volumes have remained relatively stable, ranging between 44,000 and 46,000 tonnes.
“However, what matters most is not just how much is collected, but how much is actually recycled.
That’s why our award-winning ‘Recycling: Let’s Sort It’ campaign is focused on helping residents recycle correctly and reduce contamination in their bins.”
The council is set to launch a food waste recycling service in 2027 – something that is already being carried out in neighbouring Somerset.
To facilitate this, recycling will be collected using existing containers such as bins and reusable sacks as well as new containers provided by Wiltshire Council.
“We understand that many residents are eager for food waste collections to begin sooner,” Cllr Sample said.
“While other councils like Somerset have already introduced this service, Wiltshire has long-term contractual obligations that have made early implementation challenging.
“That said, we are now preparing to roll out separate food waste collections from August 2027, in line with new national requirements under the Environment Act 2021.
“Government funding has been confirmed to support this rollout, and we are working to ensure the transition is smooth and effective.
“We remain committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, and we thank residents for their continued efforts to recycle more and waste less.”
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How a cow's tooth revealed new details of Stonehenge origins...
ANunlikely source of new information is revealing new details of how the ancient stones at Stonehenge were transported to Wiltshire.
Analysis of a Neolithic cow’s tooth found at the World Heritage Site found the animal is likely to have come from Wales, backing theories that cattle helped move the stones into position.
A molar from an elderly Bos taurus, excavated from a cow’s jawbone beside the ancient monument in 1924, was sliced by experts from the British Geological Society, Cardiff University and University College London.
The scientists were looking for clues about the animal’s diet and movement.
And it seems that their work offers evidence, for the first time, of a link between cattle
remains at Stonehenge and Wales at the time when the bluestone megaliths were moved to the site.
The jawbone dates to the very beginning of the
monument’s construction – in 2995 to 2900 BC.
“The remains of this elderly animal were found buried at Stonehenge. It is not known if it travelled to Stonehenge alive, or its remains were, curated and deposited there,” the study said.
“However, it is possible that the animal held some significance to the population as the cow probably died 55 to 270 years (at 68% probability) before being placed on the bottom of the ditch.”
Professor Jane Evans, from the British Geological Society, told the BBC: “It is another tie between Stonehenge and Wales.
“You can tell that the animal has been grazing on the Palaeozoic rock, typical of those found in Wales, particularly in and around where bluestones are found.”
She said while bluestones are also found in the Lake District and Scotland, evidence clearly pointed to the animals coming from Wales.
“We’re beginning to see so many connections between Wales and Stonehenge," she added.
"Not only is it the closest rock, but there are other links as well."
The study brought to light
new evidence that the stones were taken to the ancient site with the help of cattle, rather than being dragged there by humans.
Researchers measured carbon, oxygen, strontium and lead isotopes from the tooth –the analysis of which found changes to the animal’s diet, which suggests the cow was either moved or that winter fodder was imported.
The latest research comes after a study by experts at Aberystwyth University suggests boulders at Stonehenge were taken to the site by humans and not by glaciers, as previously thought.
Scientists said there is “no evidence for ice extending as far south as Salisbury Plain”.
Stonehenge was built from stones all over Great Britain which includes smaller bluestone megaliths that came from north Pembrokeshire in Wales – 140 miles from the ancient monument.
Archaeologists previously thought that the bluestones from the Preseli Hills, which were among the first stones to be erected some 5,000 years ago, were transported by glacial ice long before Stonehenge’s construction.
Cows may be an unexpected source of details of Stonehenge's origins
Picture: Unsplash/Pixabay
Man attempted to groom teen, 15
SALISBURY man Craig Arrowsmith has been handed a suspended prison sentence after attempting to groom a 15-yearold girl.
Arrowsmith, of Hoadley Green, Salisbury, appeared at Salisbury Crown Court yesterday (September 1) after pleading guilty to sexual communication with a child, making indecent images of children and four counts of possession of extreme pornography, namely bestiality.
The 48-year-old was jailed for 12 months, suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work, pay compensation of £500 and complete up to 35 days of rehabilitation activity days. He will also be required to sign on to the sex offender’s register for 10 years.
The charges came after police received a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) referral from the victim’s school in January last year, raising concerns the victim was receiving inappropriate messages from Arrowsmith.
Arrowsmith, pictured, was arrested and bailed and an examination of his phone revealed that between March 2023 and January 2024, Arrowsmith repeatedly
messaged the victim, a 15-yearold girl, on a social media platform, many of which were sexual in nature.
Four videos featuring bestiality were also found on his phone, as well as a total of 245 category C indecent images, all of which related to superimposed photos of the victim.
After the sentencing, DC Louise Butler, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team, said: “Firstly, I would like to thank the victim for her bravery throughout the case.
“Her courage in speaking with us and giving a video recorded interview has led to Arrowsmith being sentenced yesterday.
“Arrowsmith’s crimes are abhorrent. Despite knowing the victim was only 15 years old, he continued to message her in a sexual manner and used photos of her to impose her face onto an AI-generated female’s naked body. He has now been sentenced and will be on the Sex Offender’s Register for the next decade.”
Anyone who suspects a person of carrying out child sexual exploitation, or thinks someone they know has been a victim or may be soon, can contact police on 101.
Secure Your Home. Safeguard Your Legacy.
Safeguard Your Hard-Earned Assets from 40% Inheritance Tax, Looming Care Fees, & Potential Family Disputes.
Discover the Power of a Living Trust
Your home is more than just bricks and mortar — it’s the foundation of your family’s future. But without the right legal protections, it could be vulnerable to rising care costs, probate delays, and unnecessary inheritance tax. At Oakwood Wills, we help you shield your assets with one powerful tool: the Living Trust
Why Consider a Living Trust?
Inheritance Tax Planning: Are you concerned about losing 40% of your already taxed hard earned wealth to the government? Our bespoke legal strategies, meticulously crafted using trusts and wills, ensure your assets stay where they belong – in your family’s hands. Fully compliant with UK law, we shield your estate from the grasp of inheritance taxes, giving you peace of mind and financial security.
Protect Your Assets from Care Costs. Placing your main residence into a living trust can ring-fence it from potential future care fees. With care costs now averaging thousands of pounds per month, this can be a crucial move to safeguard your estate — and your children’s inheritance.
Care Fees Protection: With average care fees hitting £2,000 per week and typical stays ranging from 3 to 7 years, these expenses can quickly deplete most estates. Our custom-tailored solutions offer a lifeline. While many believe protection is impossible, we’ve developed a tailored legal strategy fully compliant with UK law to safeguard your assets, including protection against care fees.
Minimise Inheritance Tax Liability. A Living Trust can be a valuable tool in inheritance tax planning. By legally transferring ownership of your home and selected assets into the trust, they may fall outside of your taxable estate.
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Maintain Full Control of Your Assets. When you set up a living trust, you remain as one of the trustees — often alongside trusted family members. This allows you to manage and use your assets as normal, with surviving trustees stepping in only if you lose capacity or pass away, ensuring a smooth transition with no court delays. Personalised, In-Home Consultation – Free of Charge Oakwood Wills offers complimentary consultations in the comfort of your own home or via online meetings.
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For a complimentary consultation, reach out to Oakwood Wills.
Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
Live your life the way you choose
Live every day your way at Salisbury Manor in Wiltshire, where you can continue with much-loved hobbies, try new activities and make new friends all in a welcoming, safe environment.
From pampering sessions in the hair and beauty salon, movie marathons in the cinema, to socialising in the café – enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle tailored to you.
Choose what makes you happy
At Salisbury Manor you can fill your day with activities you enjoy. From crafting, baking and gardening to laughter-filled days out, we’ll support you to live life to the full.
For restful moments or quieter days, you can enjoy a natter over afternoon tea with friends and family in the café or simply enjoy the sunshine with a good book in our landscaped gardens. Home-cooked meals to savour
Care UK’s award-winning dining experiences focus on providing choice and accessibility for all. Meals are tailored to suit any dietary needs you may have, including modified diets if you have difficulties with swallowing (dysphagia). Rest assured that no matter your needs, you’ll enjoy high-quality, tempting meals, as well as sweet and savoury treats.
Dine in restaurant-style surroundings, with the reassurance that our team is ready to step-in if you need a helping hand at mealtimes. In-room meals are also available if needed.
Freshly prepared, seasonal dishes are created with residents’ input so you can still enjoy family favourites while trying tasty new dishes. What’s more, our person-centred approach to dining means that our chef will always do their utmost to accommodate your requests, even if they are not on the current menu.
Trusted to care
At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 10,000 families across the country trust us to care for their older loved one.
To find out more about Salisbury Manor, call 01722 638 420 or visit careuk.com/salisbury-manor
Salisbury Manor, Shapland Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7EJ
Salisbury Manor care home, Wiltshire
Battle of Britain 85th Anniversary Garden Party
Saturday 13th September 2025, 12 noon - 4.30pm
Salisbury Manor is opening its doors to the local Wiltshire community to remember the heroes that have served in the Battle of Britain, and we would love for you to join us.
Preservation of health and wealthcheese and wine evening
Thursday 25th September 2025, 6.30pm - 8pm
We will be joined by Michelle Sheppard, Financial Adviser and SOLLA registered, who will talk about the options for funding long term care. Michelle will provide expert advice on how you can help your savings go further.
Trusted to care
To book please call 01722 638 965 or email jennifer.ettimari@careuk.com
Driver, 22, behind bars after driving into people in a Salisbury street
A22-YEAR-OLD has been jailed for more than four years after he deliberately ran over two pedestrians in Salisbury.
Braden Lynam of Woodborough Close in Trowbridge was involved in a physical altercation on March 27 with a man in his 40s, which a woman in her 20s tried to break up.
Moments later, Lynam then got into his blue Ford Focus and drove at the pair at a high speed in an act of retaliation.
He then failed to stop to check on the welfare of his victims, before driving into Churchfields Road where he abandoned his vehicle and evaded police until he was arrested on March 31.
The crash resulted in the male victim sustaining life-
changing injuries and the woman was left with serious but non-life-changing injuries.
Lynam, pictured, previously pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent, actual
bodily harm and causing serious injury by dangerous driving in a hearing at Winchester Crown Court in April.
On Friday (August 29), he was sentenced to four years and eight months’ imprisonment. He was also disqualified from driving for five years.
Investigating officer DC Louise Butler said:
“Lynam’s actions were horrendous and have resulted in one of the victims suffering lifechanging leg injuries. Even so, it is fortunate
that it is not a lot worse. He could easily have taken two lives.
“Lynam then failed to stop at
the scene, leaving his two victims by the side of the road with serious injuries.
“There is no place for this sort of violence in our county and I’m pleased he has now been jailed.”
Investigating officer DC Louise Butler said: “Lynam’s actions were horrendous and have resulted in one of the victims suffering life-changing leg injuries. Even so, it is fortunate that it is not a lot worse. He could easily have taken two lives. Lynam then failed to stop at the scene, leaving his two victims by the side of the road with serious injuries. There is no place for this sort of violence in our county and I’m pleased he has now been jailed.”
Friendship on Your Doorstep with Platinum Skies
AtPlatinum Skies, we see every day how friendship transforms lives. The connections made in our communities bring laughter, support, a renewed sense of purpose, alongside proven health and wellbeing benefits, from reducing stress to boosting confidence.
Homeowners enjoy a vibrant social calendar with activities for all interests and abilities. From art classes and fitness groups to book clubs, quizzes, live music, and seasonal events, there are countless opportunities to meet like-minded people and build meaningful friendships.
“It’s vibrant, friendly, supportive - and full of different people with different interests,” says Jane, a homeowner at Chapters in Salisbury, whose passion is open-water swimming. “It’s always been important to me to belong, and here, I’ve found new friendships that add to that sense of family.”
You can take part in as much or as little as you like - there’s never any pressure. However, the chance to connect is always on your doorstep, whether it’s an impromptu coffee and catch-up in the Bistro or simply sharing a smile with a neighbour.
“I don’t think I imagined I’d live in a retirement village,” Jane says, smiling. “But if I could’ve painted a picture of an ideal retirement, it would be pretty close to this.”
With affordable homes and welcoming shared spaces, Platinum Skies offers a lifestyle that’s filled with warmth and companionship.
At Platinum Skies, it’s your retirement — your way. To find out more, or to secure a place at our Discovery Day at Chapters, Salisbury on Thursday 25th September, call 01722 447338 or visit platinumskies.co.uk
Star Sybil still fundraising at 100!
AVERY special celebration was put on for a Stars Appeal volunteer who just turned 100.
Sybil Tucker has been supporting Salisbury Hospital’s Charity for more than 20 years - and still regularly volunteers in the Stars Appeal Bookshop in the hospital’s main entrance, with her daughter Nicola.
She has raised £65,350 in her two-decade involvement with the cause.
And following a morning shift at the bookshop on her big day, Sybil was joined by her fellow volunteers to mark the special milestone birthday with tea and cake.
“I can’t really believe I am 100. I want to keep going and supporting the Stars Appeal for as long as I can,” the new centenarian said.
Sybil and Nicola first got involved with the Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital’s
charity, in 2003 during its Ace of Hearts campaign, which raised £1 million to build a purpose-built cardiac suite.
It was a cause close to the family, as Sybil’s brother had a heart problem.
The pair, who live in Nunton, started off running a table stall selling books and up until 2020 ran a monthly book, bric-a-brac, and toy stall at the hospital.
Since then, money raised by the pair has contributed to a wide range of Stars Appeal projects over the years, including the children’s unit, cardiac suite, breast unit, the second MRI and CT scanners, and neonatal family unit.
Daughter Nicola said: “We enjoy volunteering and get to meet so many lovely people. We know all the money we help raise goes to supporting our local hospital and all the people who use it.”
Sybil, who was a cook in the
Women’s Auxiliary Air Force in Farnborough during the Second World War, and Nicola have a room in the Stars Appeal breast unit named after them in recognition of their fundraising efforts.
Dave Cates, of the Stars Appeal, said: “We feel honoured
to be celebrating Sybil’s 100th birthday and we are so grateful for the huge amount of support Sybil, along with her daughter Nicola, has given us over the last 22 years, which has made such a difference to the lives of thousands of local patients and their families.”
Nicola and Sybil at the Stars Appeal Bookshop
Picture: Spencer Mulholland
Fond farewell to cathedral peregrines
IT
was an emotional farewell – for now – for peregrine chicks perched on high at Salisbury Cathedral’s south tower as the season officially came to an end.
Thousands of eagle-eyed viewers on the popular livestream kept an eye on the nest box cameras as they watched the four peregrines grow from furry, hungry chicks screeching for food to fully fledged independent adults soaring high above the cathedral grounds.
The chicks – called Douglas, Afon, Ford, and Shannon after a request was put out for waterthemed names – were taught some important life lessons by their parents, including crucially how to hunt their prey.
But now, the popular cathedral residents will have to fend for themselves.
Cameras have now been
turned off, so viewers will have to wait until next year to witness the next iteration of peregrines grow up in the city.
The chicks first started hatching from their eggs in April, after the parents went through the usual courting rituals in January – a month earlier than expected.
And over the coming months, the chicks grew into fledglings and began to explore their surroundings – with some adapting quicker to flying than others.
A cathedral spokesperson said it will become more difficult to establish if the birds
are now alive and well as they will spent more time away from the cathedral.
But they expect some to return to roost, as well as their parents.
A cathedral spokesperson
said: “We’ve had the most amazing time watching our resident peregrines this year as they carefully cared for the eggs, tended to the chicks, and soared through the skies with the juveniles as they learned how to hunt.
“Thank you to everyone who has joined us on the webcams and online. We will be turning the cameras off on September 1, but they will be back on early
next year for what we hope will be another successful nesting season.”
It has been suggested that both the adults and the chicks will fly out in a roughly westerly direction over the water meadows and out towards Wilton.
It is also common for the chicks to stay in the area to continue to beg for food from their parents.
'Vibrant and accessible' play area opens at Salisbury River Park
CHILDREN
have been making the most of the newly-opened River Park play area in Salisbury.
The “vibrant and accessible” space found at Ashley Road Open Space was designed with direct input from schoolchildren, Wiltshire Council said.
The new play area, which opened yesterday (August 21) features engravings of artwork by Sarum St Paul’s pupils on the equipment and has a vibrant colour palette, created by artist Zac Newham in collaboration with students from South Wilts Grammar School, that reflects the colours within the river itself, while the central climbing structure is filled with educational information and activities reflecting the local ecology.
Green Play Project designed the play park, in consultation with Disability Interest Group of Salisbury (DIGS) to ensure inclusivity, with features like flat surfacing, wheelchair access, and equipment
specifically designed for children of all abilities.
Representatives from Salisbury City Council, the Environment Agency, and Kier gathered at the new park to mark its opening.
The Salisbury River Park project is a collaboration between the Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council, and is constructed by Kier.
Councillor Sam Charleston (Lib Dem, Salisbury St Paul's), leader of Salisbury City Council, said: “This play area is a key feature within the new River Park, helping to shape a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive environment.
“The children’s artwork has transformed this into a truly unique space, adding colour, creativity, and character that will be a real benefit to our community. We’re thrilled that it’s now ready for families to enjoy."
Andy Wallis, the Environment Agency’s project lead, said: “The Salisbury River
Park project has been a great demonstration of the added benefits, such as improved amenities in Ashley Road and Fisherton Recreation Ground, that can be provided for the local community as part of a large engineering scheme.
“It has been a privilege working collaboratively with the local schools and community groups to input to the design of the play park to create a lasting benefit for future generations."
Cllr Mel Jacob, deputy leader of Wiltshire Council and cabinet member for communities, said: “We are delighted to see this new play area open, bringing fun to families and children in Salisbury.
“It marks an exciting milestone in the journey towards the full opening of the transformational Salisbury River Park, which will soon offer even more for our community to enjoy."
Anya Hallett, from the Green Play Project, added: “We have been delighted to work for the
Environment Agency to design and build the new playground at Ashley Road.
“Celebrating Salisbury’s unique ecology, the bold blue path flows though the site, taking inspiration from the natural formation of a river, with the areas of sedimentation deposition along the inner curves and erosion along the outer edge of curves.
“The shape allows for a gradual revealing of views and discovery of play interventions, responding to them as it meanders around, creating different activity zones.
“The designs of the bespoke play elements are inspired by local wildlife and informed by consultations with the Environmental Agency, local school children and disability groups, to ensure the end result works for the unique site and children of all ages and abilities.”
Visitors are advised fencing work and the dismantling of the old play park will continue over the coming weeks.
Dignitaries gathered to open the new play park
Super League star becomes ambassador for Salisbury homelessness charity
Picture: Alabare
APROFESSIONAL
footballer is helping shine a light of the work of a Salisbury homelessness charity.
Maddi Wilde, who plays for newly promoted London City Lionesses, has become an ambassador for Alabaré – a charity that provides immediate support to the street homeless through their drop-in centres.
The 22-year-old defender was set to make her debut on Saturday (September 6) in the Women’s Super League, when London City took on Asenal.
Off the pitch, it is hoped Maddi’s new role will help
highlight how Alabaré is supporting some of the most vulnerable and marginalised people in society to a new audience.
The move comes as the women’s game is also continuing to grow in popularity following the England Lionesses’ historic victory in the Euros this summer.
Alabaré is committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness through its holistic services such as drop-in centres, supported housing, addiction recovery services, and mental health and wellbeing
programmes.
Maddi Wilde said: “I’m really pleased to be joining Alabaré as an ambassador and supporting their mission to break the cycle of homelessness.
“It’s clear that it can happen to anyone, and through no fault of their own.
"Alabaré does some incredible work with vulnerable and disadvantaged people, and I hope I can help to showcase their efforts, raise more awareness, and support their fundraising.”
The Ambassador role is a voluntary one, to inspire others
to support the charity and inform people about its work.
CEO of Alabaré, Andrew Lord, said: “It’s wonderful to welcome Maddi to our group of ambassadors, as we aim to broaden our reach and increase awareness about our work.
“Her appointment comes at an important time for women’s football, with Maddi’s London City Lionesses squad joining the top flight, and we wish them every success in the coming season. I hope that with Maddi’s support, we’ll inspire a new generation to support Alabaré’s cause.”
A meeting of mayoral minds...
SALISBURY had two special visitors last week as the mayor of its sister-city in America came to the UK.
Tamara Sheffield, mayor of Salisbury, North Carolina, and her guest Regina Holloway took the trip to Wiltshire on August 22 to mark the ongoing relationship between the two cities.
The pair met up with Salisbury mayor, Councillor John Wells, at The Guildhall for a guided tour of the historic building.
The visit included formal speeches and the ceremonial signing of proclamation scrolls, reaffirming the longstanding
friendship and shared commitment to collaboration between the two Salisburys.
Mayor Sheffield also presented Cllr Wells with a key to the City of Salisbury, North Carolina, representing the “deep appreciation” for the cities’ partnership.
Following the Guildhall reception, the visitors toured the iconic Salisbury Cathedral, before continuing to the world-renowned Stonehenge, an experience symbolising the deep historical roots that connect communities across the world.
Cllr Wells, said: “Our two cities have been connected as
sister cities for many years, united not only by a shared name, but by a shared commitment to community, heritage and friendship across the Atlantic.
“May the connection between our two Salisbury’s continue to thrive, and may this visit mark another
chapter in our ongoing story of friendship.”
Mayor Sheffield said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to be able to be here.
"As a new mayor of the city of Salisbury, North Carolina,
this is the first key that I’ve been able to present and is the highest honour that we can bestow from our city.
“It is my honour to continue this friendship by presenting this key to mayor Wells today.”
Maddi Wilde has become an ambassador for Alabaré
Ringwood victim tells of "horrific" ordeal at the hands of jailed rapist
"BEFORE I was raped, I was confident. Outgoing. Full of energy and ambition. That version of me feels like a stranger now – someone who was stolen in the space of a single, horrific event.“
Those were the words of a Ringwood woman who was raped by Joshua Blachford at an address in the town between February 17 and February 18.
Blachford, of Everest Road, Christchurch, Dorset, pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on August 12.
He was jailed for three years and nine months.
The victim read out a harrowing victim personal statement in court where she recounted how she will never be able to get back the person she once was.
Her statement said: “My relationship with my own body has changed. I used to be body positive. I liked the way I looked.
“Now I hide in baggy clothes, desperate not to be seen, not to be noticed, especially by men. Being looked at feels threatening. I no longer feel like a woman – I feel like a target.
“This rape has changed the way I see everything. The world. Myself. My future. And although I’m trying, healing isn’t about “getting back to normal” for me because normal no longer exists.”
She added: “I’ve had to accept that the person I was will never return. And that’s a grief I carry on top of everything else.”
As well as serving time behind bars, 29-year-old Blachford will be required to register with police upon his release from prison.
He must also abide by the conditions of a restraining order, which prevents him from having any contact with the victim.
Detective Constable Emma Kelly, of the Western Amberstone team, said she is pleased that justice has been served and that Blachford has been placed behind bars, “where he belongs”.
“While I know this result won’t rid the victim of the memories of what Blachford did, I truly hope it allows her to move forward with her life, safe in the knowledge that he can no longer harm anyone else,” she said.
“I must place on record my thanks to the victim in this case for her support throughout our investigation. Without her bravery and determination, we would not have been able to achieve this outcome at court.”
On what this sentence might do for other victims, DC Kelly, said: “I hope it will reassure other victims that they will be listened to when reporting similar incidents to us, and that detectives on our dedicated Amberstone teams will work tirelessly to secure justice.
Joshua Blachford has been jailed for three years and nine months Pictures: Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary
“At this point, I would like to encourage other victims to come forward and speak to us. We take allegations of this nature extremely seriously.
“This sentencing should also be a very clear message to other offenders out there that we will always thoroughly investigate any report made to us, in our determined effort to bring you before the courts.”
A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesperson added: “We recognise that not everyone has the confidence to speak to police, but there is support services available that
can help you if you are a victim of abuse.
“As a survivor of sexual abuse, you’re entitled to support, whether you report the crime or not.
“You can access different types of support depending on how you’re feeling and what you decide to do next.”
n Anyone who has any concerns, or anything they need to report to the police regarding rape or sexual assault, can contact the force on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Fire warning for parents after callouts in the Wilton area
POLICE are urging parents to educate their children on the dangers of setting fires after two blazes were reported in the Wilton area last month.
A shrub outside a house in Wilton was set alight on Monday, August 18, but was quickly extinguished by residents, while a fire was deliberately set in woodland in Wilton on August 11.
Police said it was fortunate the woodland
fire “didn’t spread significantly”.
“We are in the process of speaking to those thought to be involved, but we would urge parents to speak to their children about the significant consequences arson can have,” a spokesperson said.
“It has been a hot, dry summer, which means that any spark – let alone a fire deliberately set in woodland – can quickly spread out of control.
“Make sure your child knows the dangers around setting fires.
“The fire service runs an educational programme designed to work with children who engage in fire setting behaviour, have an interest or a curiosity with fire, or have a fear of fire."
n For more information and fire safety advice, visit www.dwfire.org.uk.
State-of-the-art padel courts planned at Salisbury tennis club site
PADEL
players could soon be making the most of three new “state of the art” courts in Salisbury, if new plans are approved.
The rapidly growing sport combines tennis with squash and has become more popular in recent years, with more than 30 million players worldwide.
Now, new plans have been submitted to Wiltshire Council for construction of the courts - which could start in 2025/26 - and would be funded entirely by Victoria Park Community Tennis Club.
The club said it anticipates building work would only take two to three months, dependent on weather conditions, and would fill a void in the city, as there are not currently any public padel courts in Salisbury.
Put together by CRD Building Consultancy, the plans said the project offers an “exciting opportunity to introduce a new, accessible sport for the entire community to enjoy”.
The facility would sit near the western boundary of the
club site, where the current multi-use games area (MUGA) is located, with the MUGA to be relocated to the south-eastern part of the site adjacent to the existing children’s play area.
Each 20m by 10m court would be enclosed, opening from 8am to 10pm each day.
Victoria Park Tennis presented their plans for the courts at a meeting of Salisbury City Council in May, and councillors described the plans as “really exciting”.
Councillor John Wells said: “Victoria Park is at the centre of St Francis and Stratford ward
They would not be able to be booked after 9pm and the downward-facing lights would not be left on after 10pm, the application said, as well as being inspected and brushed each week.
and is an ideal location for an additional facility for people of all ages which complements the existing facilities in promoting community engagement, health, and well-being.
“Alongside the existing
thriving tennis club based in the park it will undoubtedly engage the wider community. It will offer a different another opportunity for physical activity which is great fun for all ages regardless of their intention or desire to play tennis.
“It will particularly provide a much-needed increase in local opportunities for youngsters to socialise and keep fit.”
The national governing body for padel in Great Britain, the Lawn Tennis Association, has also backed the plans.
In a supporting letter, the organisation said: “Following a recent mapping exercise, we have identified a clear demand for the sport in the area.”
They added: “The LTA is enthusiastic about the plans to add padel to the existing tennis offer at Victoria Park, and we hope that this will be taken into consideration during the review of the proposal.”
The facility will be fully accessible, featuring appropriate access paths, level surfacing, and wheelchair-friendly court access, the plans added.
The site where the new padel courts could be built and below, how they could look
Pictures: CRD Building Consultancy
salisburyandavon.co.uk
Wine merchant announces move to to MD's hometown - Salisbury
ANaward-winning wine business is swapping the Dorset countryside for its new home in Salisbury.
Museum Wines has announced it is opening a warehouse store at Unit 2 of the Paxton Business Centre, nestling next to new neighbours, the family-run Pritchett’s Butcher.
The business, described as the UK’s top South African wine specialist, is aiming to open to the public in the first week of September.
Museum Wines’ managing director Daniel Grigg, who lives in Salisbury, said a key part of the move was to work alongside Pritchett’s Butcher to provide a “one-stop shop” for people to pick up high-quality meat and wine.
“Salisbury is my hometown, so it’s very exciting to be relocating there and working in the community where I live and am raising my children,” he said.
“There has already been a lot of local support and enthusiasm. However, the reason we chose to move there was that a unit next to Pritchett’s Butcher became available, and the
synergy of creating a one-stop shop for sourcing your wine and meat whilst conveniently supporting two local, independent businesses was too good to pass up.”
The business was founded in 2004 and has spent the past 20 years operating from a converted barn in Tarrant Hinton in Dorset.
The shop will stock wines from all major wine-
producing countries with prices from £8 per bottle and discounts for buying six or 12 bottles.
As a specialist importer and distributor, the business works with more than 30 wineries, offering both trade and retail customers quality wines at competitive prices, with only one link in the chain between them and the vineyard where the grapes were grown.
Museum Wines has six awards commending it for its expertise in South African wines, including Decanter (Best South African Specialist x3),
International Wine Challenge (Best South African Specialist x2) and Harper’s (Top 50 wholesalers).
The business services trade accounts nationwide, with a diverse network of customers from local country pubs to Michelin-star restaurants and industry stalwarts such as The Wine Society.
Daniel added: “We’re looking forward to building relationships with new trade customers in Salisbury and will also be opening a warehouse store open to the general public
at Unit 2, Paxton Business Centre right next door to our good friends at Pritchett’s Butcher.
“We intend to open to the public in the first week of September, pending any unexpected delays however everything is running according to schedule at present.
“There is ample parking at the unit allowing customers to conveniently park (for free) right outside and of course we offer a carry-to-car service to help them load up their purchases.”
Man admits making more than 1,900 offensive 999 calls
SALISBURY man Richard Bowles has been sentenced to a five-year criminal behaviour order (CBO) after he made numerous abusive and sexually explicit calls to emergency services.
Bowles, of Woodstock Road, called 999 requesting to speak to the ambulance service 1,920 times between December 2022 and July 2025 - with the total cost of these incidents estimated to be around £186,000.
The 51-year-old pleaded guilty to seven counts of sending indecent or grossly offensive electronic communications with intent to cause distress or anxiety at Salisbury Crown Court on August 29.
His CBO also prevents him from contacting emergency and non-emergency services and acting in an inappropriate sexualised manner. If this order is breached, a custodial sentence may be granted.
In addition, he must complete an 18 month community order, undertake 20 rehabilitative days with the probation service, complete 120 hours unpaid work and pay a statutory surcharge to the courts.
PC Hannah Cranham said: “Members of the public who work for Wiltshire Police, South Western Ambulance Service, and other non-emergency NHS 111 services do so to help people.
“They do not go to work to receive
abuse. Bowles’ behaviour is nothing short of unacceptable. He is a persistent offender acting for his own gratification. Many of the calls involved abusive and sexually explicit behaviour. The implementation of the CBO speaks volumes about Bowles’ offending and how it will not be tolerated.”
Mike Jones, crime and violence reduction manager for South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “We’d like to thank Wiltshire Police for their investigation into Bowles’s behaviour and we will continue to work with our police colleagues and partners to relentlessly pursue those who seek to abuse and misuse our services.”
MD Daniel Grigg is bringing Museum Wines to his hometown
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Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence
Steer Automotive Group Limited of 105 High Street, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR1 2HW is applying for a licence to use Steer Salisbury, Unit B, 22 Cherry Orchard Ln, Salisbury, SP2 7LD as an operating centre for 1 goods vehicle and 0 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.
Majority believes Wiltshire Police do 'excellent' or 'good' job
Pictures: Submitted
NEW
data reveals 58% of people believe Wiltshire Police do an excellent or good job - above the UK average of 49%.
The data, from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), ranks the county force the highest in the south west when it comes to public opinion.
The research also found 50% of respondents agree that Wiltshire Police deals effectively with local concerns, compared to a national average of 40%.
Additionally, 51% of people felt the force works well in partnership with local organisations, again outperforming the UK average, of 48%.
In Salisbury, efforts have been made to reduce anti-social behaviour, with more officers seen on the city streets as part of efforts to keep the city centre safe.
Recent initiatives across the county include increased patrols in anti-social behaviour hotspots, the rollout of mobile
PCC
Philip Wilkinson said work still has to be done to improve public confidence in Wiltshire Police
police stations to improve accessibility, and ongoing improvements to the 101 service.
The measures aim to ensure that residents not only feel safe, but also have confidence that their concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon, according to Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson.
“These figures suggest that Wiltshire Police is making progress in how it’s perceived by the public, but we know that trust in policing takes time to build and can be easily lost," he said.
“While it’s encouraging to see signs of confidence, we must remain focused on the work still to be done— particularly around visibility, responsiveness, and ensuring people feel heard and supported.
"Rebuilding trust across all our communities is a long-term commitment, and one we take seriously.”
Chief Superintendent at Wiltshire Police, Doug
Downing, said: “I welcome the fact that our communities continue to place great trust in Wiltshire Police.
“We recognise the vital importance of retaining the confidence of the public and we continue to prioritise proactive neighbourhood policing by ensuring greater visibility and engagement.
“Such positive feedback, I hope, reflects the significant efforts that continue to be made to work with our communities to drive down crime and create safer public spaces.
“There is always more to be done and we are determined to build on this positive momentum to strengthen that bond of trust.”
The report also said challenges around police visibility and victim satisfaction remain across the country, with only 11% reporting seeing officers or PCSOs on foot patrols at least once a week, compared to 29% in 2024 and 39% in its peak in 2011.
Meanwhile, 51% of victims
across England and Wales said they were satisfied with how their incident was handled, down from 70% in 2015.
Mr Wilkinson added: “Nationally, declining police visibility and victim satisfaction are serious concerns, driven by years of underinvestment. When central government funding fails to keep pace with demand, the result is fewer officers on our streets and a diminished ability to deliver the service the public rightly expects.
“Wiltshire is performing well, but sustained government funding is essential to maintain progress and meet public expectations.
"I will continue to lobby government for a fairer funding settlement that reflects the unique challenges faced by Wiltshire and ensures our communities get the policing they deserve.”
To read the full report, visit hons.gov.uk/releases/ perceptionsofpoliceandthe criminaljusticesystem yearendingmarch2025.
Otherworldly score to fill cathedral
SALISBURY Cathedral is set to be filled with the otherworldly sounds of an Oscar-nominated film soundtrack next month.
Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack for Christopher Nolan’s 2014 movie Interstellar will be performed live by Roger Sayer - the organist from the original recording - on Saturday, October 4.
The internationallyacclaimed organist will begin this unique concert with excerpts from 2001: A Space Odyssey and Holst’s The Planets Suite, before a special film The Making of the Interstellar Soundtrack will give viewers a rare opportunity to glimpse into the making of this incredible soundtrack, all on the cathedral’s famous Father Willis organ.
In 2014, film score composer Hans Zimmer personally invited
Roger to contribute to the recording of the organ part for the Interstellar film soundtrack, using the organ at Temple Church, where he was director of music at the time.
In Salisbury, there will also be the opportunity for audience members to ask questions about the creating of the soundtrack, and to hear from Roger himself about his experience working on this iconic film with Nolan and Zimmer.
Speaking of Roger Sayer, award-winning composer Zimmer said: “He is without doubt an extraordinary artist whose humanity shines in the impeccable artistry that flows from his hands.”
Tickets for Roger Sayer: Interstellar, on Saturday, October 4, at 7.30pm cost £12.50 and are available via the cathedral website, salisburycathedral.org.uk.
KG Theatre Arts is an all-inclusive, friendly yet professional Theatre School which is suitable and welcoming to all levels from beginners to advanced. We offer inspirational, creative, and fun classes taught by industry professionals and offer exciting performance opportunities including international performances, such as Disneyland Paris.
We are also proud to offer: NATD Musical Theatre Examinations, Ofqual Regulated Dance Qualifications and Trinity Guildhall Examinations. Enrolments are now open! Why not come and try one of our classes?
Spacey sounds are to take listeners to another world
Picture: Unsplash
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Volunteering
Wiltshire Sight has vacancies for event volunteers, which will provide experience in working as part of a team as well as building confidence with the public
The unsung benefits of volunteering
Wessex Community Action is the council for voluntary services in Wiltshire and provides practical support for community organisations on funding, governance, planning, policy development, recruiting and leadership. This monthly volunteering column looks at all aspects of volunteering and how people can give up their time for the benefit of their communities.
THERE’S a lot written and spoken about what volunteers add to the causes they give up their time for – but they can receive a great deal in return as well.
Every volunteering role has the potential to be a classroom without walls, a place where new skills are learned, existing ones are sharpened and personal growth is nurtured.
A good example is communication, whether the role is helping at a community café, serving in a charity shop or phoning supporters, volunteers quickly discover how to adapt their style to suit different people and situations. Problem-solving, too, comes naturally when they have to think on their feet – as anyone who’s ever had to rustle up extra chairs for a busy lunch club will tell you.
Teamwork is another skill honed through volunteering because charities rely on groups of people pooling their talents and working towards a shared goal. Volunteers learn quickly how to support one other, accept help themselves and celebrate collective achievements.
For younger volunteers, these experiences can be a first taste of workplace-style responsibilities, building confidence and resilience. For older volunteers, the learning curve can be
equally steep – mastering digital booking systems, trying out new equipment or picking up social media know-how from younger teammates.
Perhaps most valuable of all is the deeper understanding of the community to be gained – how different organisations fit together, what challenges people face, and how small acts make big differences.
There are plenty of opportunities that foster learning – almost as an additional benefit – on Wiltshire Together, Wessex Community Action’s free to use voluntary sector online portal, where users can register and search for voluntary roles by type or area. Check it out at wiltshiretogether.org.uk.
Among the current vacancies are working as an Information and Advice Office volunteers for Age UK in its Devizes and Salisbury offices. Among the responsibilities are dealing with enquiries from clients, mainly by telephone and email. With full training given and a minimum commitment of three hours a week, it’s an ideal way of gaining experience in an office environment and developing communication skills.
Wiltshire Sight is recruiting event volunteers to run stalls, talk to the public and demonstrate access technology. Training is given and it’s a chance to develop communication and teamwork as well as become more familiar with publicfacing roles to build confidence.
Volunteer coordinator, Becs Thurgur, said: “This rewarding, flexible opportunity is a great way to help us raise funds, increase awareness of our services and ensure that clients feel welcomed and supported when they attend our events.”
WCA works with charities and groups to help them support their volunteers through training and recruitment ideas. To find out more about training and support or more about the volunteering support it can offer, contact Neil Cotton at community@ wessexcommunityaction.org.uk.
Strong market for collections
CLARKE’S Auctions is busy preparing for the first of its autumn sales on Friday and Saturday, September 12-13.
It will be taking entries for the auction until Wednesday, September 3, and anyone who has anything they would like to consign, or would like advice on, can contact them on the number below.
Clarke’s is offering another single-owner collection, this time of about 50 lots of antique bladed weapons.
It includes a rare Victorian Thornhill fixed blade Wingfield knife with four folding elements, including corkscrew, button hook, awl and concealed scissors, tweezers and pricker, contained in its original leather sheath; a Khmer Phkak, a long machete or polearm traditionally used in the fields of Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam; antique Persian double-bladed swords, including Talwars
Part of a private collection of taxidermy which sold for more than £2,000 and Shamshirs; and other smaller bladed weapons and daggers. Single-owner collections are always on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF. sought after at auction and command good prices.
Many collectors have sold their prized items with Clarke’s, including collections of gold coins, Railwayana, Royal Crown Derby paperweights, taxidermy and scratch-built models.
Anyone who has an interesting collection or part-collection they are thinking of selling is invited to get in touch with them.
For enquiries about consignment into future sales, probate or insurance valuations or full or part house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall
& Collectibles
Next Sale Friday 12th & Saturday 13th September The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk A private collection of Georgian and later snuff boxes. Collectively sold for over £3,300.
Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600. Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal valuations. Now accepting items for this and future sales e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
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Home & Garden
A taste of the Far East, fresh from the garden
by Sally Gregson
MEMORIES of tropical holidays may be fading, but those memories of great, exotic meals remain longer. These days it’s easy to recapture that taste of the Far East first sampled on a far-flung holiday. Our supermarkets do occasionally stock oriental vegetables, but if you really want to recapture that authentic taste try growing them yourself in a corner of the garden.
Now is a good time to sow seed of traditional Chinese and Thai vegetables. Seed of exotic vegetables sown in spring has a tendency to bolt due to low temperatures, transplant shock or simply lengthening days.
Mostly they are very fast to germinate and grow on in the summer-warmed soil.
A Chinese cabbage can easily reach four times the size of a lettuce in the same time.
And a late summer sowing of oriental brassicas will be producing seedlings and young plants that ‘cut and come again’ throughout the autumn.
Try Chinese ‘mustard greens’ for spice and heat. The variety ‘Red Giant’ eventually produces large plants whose outer leaves become maroon-purple in colder weather. The younger foliage and inner leaves are not quite so hot.
This pepperiness can vary from plant to plant, but if you soak the leaves for 30 minutes
before cooking, they will have a milder flavour.
For a warm salad to serve with a traditional Thai or Chinese dish, blanch the young leaves for 30 seconds in boiling water first.
Then grate onion and ginger over the salad, and dress it with sesame oils, lemon or lime juice, sea salt, ground black pepper and crushed garlic.
Sprinkle a few fresh herbs
over the salad and serve. Try Thai basil for an authentic taste. Or stir-fry the hot, peppery leaves sliced with onions and garlic and seasoned with soy sauce.
Serve them beneath spicy duck breasts slow-baked until they are soft and succulent, for an authentic taste of China. The flavours will transport you back to your dream holiday.
Try Chinese ‘mustard greens’ for spice and heat in meals
Home & Garden
Summer refresh for houseplants
by Sally Gregson
WE in the UK are lucky enough to be able to grow most of the world’s flora either out in the garden, under glass in the greenhouse or indoors on a cool windowsill.
During a summer as hot as this it can be easy to forget the green plants that share our indoor lives with us.
But houseplants need a holiday, too.
All those dusty pots languishing in the muggy bathroom or abandoned in the hall will benefit from a little attention and some warm gentle rain before autumn is upon us again.
Many are from lush tropical jungle environments, well suited to the dark indoor light of our centrally heated houses in winter. But in summer they could be equally happy outside in a shady part of the garden.
Any plants that are infected with whitefly or red-spider-mite should be given a one-way ticket to the bin, offering the excuse for a visit to the garden centre for a healthy replacement.
It would be as well to thoroughly clean the greenhouse
glass too, while it is out of use. Eggs of insect pests are very long-lived.
The survivors can then spend their summer holiday somewhere cool and shady, protected from slugs and snails with a taste for the exotic with the usual remedies.
Rain water is so much better than chalky tap-water.
But stay-at-home gardeners are counting their blessings in a good summer – long warm evenings, outdoor meals and quantities of small young vegetables and salads as fresh as they are sweet.
It’s a special pleasure to sit in a quiet flower garden as the sun starts to sink in the sky.
The longer rays of light illuminate the mauve, blue and white colours making them shimmer.
Bats come out of hiding, ducking and diving after the moths, and if you throw a stick in the air they will move in closer to examine it.
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The tawny owls shriek eerily, if you are lucky enough to live in range, and the familiar garden you lovingly tend all day will assume a darkly different guise - a theatre for the creatures of a summer night.
Houseplants will benefit from some warm gentle rain before autumn
Picture: Nadiye Odabaşı/Pixabay
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Across
8 Writer twice interrupted by a song of praise (5)
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
9 Trouble in a Thai – or Caribbean resident (7)
10 French priest with a pair of learners offering panacea (4-3)
11 Animal longing to be in hot area (5)
12 English politician with hard article facing amount in stress (9)
14 Fine individual disregarding new rival (3)
15 Source of heat for all to see between poles (3)
16 Formulated plan I tote showing possibility (9)
Down
1 Apparent pain in hooligan (6)
2 Aquatic creature heading for pond in habitat (8)
3 Old coin kept by Indian native? (4)
4 Talk of cold or hot food (6)
5 Group rowing over three points for figure
6 Rank policy (4)
7 Crazy and empty son comes in (6)
13 List of characters? (8)
14 Just behaviour in reasonable drama? (4,4)
19 Preliminary proposition from line by novel (5)
Killer Sudoku Pro
21 Secret hint in card game largely by person (7)
15 Unaccompanied chap losing heart is grave
23 Understand wrongly note by woman with Arab (7)
24 Conservative charge for case (5)
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.
17 Frustrate Henry before conflict in Isle of event (6)
18 More substantial drink cut by bartender lately (6)
20 Flat-topped hill in Middle East and South Africa (4)
22 Unpleasant sensation a temporary obstacle first off (4)
Solar farms - a blot on the landscape
OnAugust 14, 2024, a meeting of Wiltshire Councils Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) met to discuss an application to construct a solar farm on the outskirts of Salisbury adjacent to that at Bake Farm which was once the location of the pick-your-own strawberries on the A354 Blandford Road.
The application was rejected by the committee for a number of reasons, including lack of a grid connection. After all, what’s the point of plastering agricultural land with solar panels if you can’t do anything with the electricity?
The applicant subsequently appealed the decision and the Planning Inspector ruled against the council and gave permission for the site to go ahead.
Around the grid connection, the Inspector decided that “the Point of Connection infrastructure does not form part of the proposal before me” and that there was no requirement “to include connection infrastructure in the planning application”. In layman terms, just because you can’t connect to the grid doesn’t mean you can’t build the site. Seriously. And before all the usual suspects start railing about
climate change and if we don’t reach net zero by next Thursday afternoon were all going to die, here is something else to consider.
In and around Sherston, a village in the north of Wiltshire, is a proposed project known as Lime Down Solar Park – have a look at www.limedownsolar.co. uk - the development site of which covers some 2,835 hectares, 7,000 acres in old money.
At Wiltshire Council's Full Council meeting of July 22, the Liberal Democrat cabinet member for highways proposed
Cllr Sven Hocking is a Conservative Salisbury City Councillor for Harnham East and a Wiltshire Councillor
a motion that the council should “strongly oppose the proposed Lime Down Solar Park scheme” for any number of reasons, though notably the one not mentioned was the development is in the Cabinet Members Division where I suspect his voters are not too happy! Sorry, but if you are going to jump on the “renewables are the only option” bandwagon, you have to take what you campaigned on in the last elections on the chin! These are examples of the collective madness engulfing the net zero agenda. I would hazard a guess
that like a lot of other solar infrastructure, these will be funded through government subsidy and will of course generate additional subsidy payments for the operators. For government, read “taxpayer”, as you and I will be footing the bill to provide yet more staggeringly expensive electricity ensuring our domestic and commercial energy bills remain the highest in the world. Little wonder our business can’t compete on the big stage and our pensioners have to choose between “heat or eat”.
'Don't lecture us on freedom of
WELL, the column I wrote before last certainly took off, not here, but nationally. Remember I spoke about our national flags, and how there was a big difference between the far right and patriotism? That took off in a big way didn’t it, not that I can claim any credit, but it certainly was in the ‘ether’, as they say.
With so many going up across the country and so many councils removing them less they offend, though quite how the National flag and the culture and custom it represents can be seen as offensive and to whom I still cannot fathom.
King Arthur PendragonFormer and proposed Independent Parliamentary candidate for
Salisbury
Still, I am sure Nigel and his mate Donald will have plenty to say about it when the US President makes his state visit to the UK.
Britain is already great but I am sure they’ll share their ideas on how we can make it great, again. And I am sure President Trump may well have
something to say about the lack of 'freedom of speech', or more pointedly the erosion of it, here in the UK.
But to be honest and diplomatic, which he is not, it’s
speech'
actually none of his business, and we don’t need Americans coming over here and telling us how to run the country, or lecturing us on the democratic rights and freedoms of the people.
It would be useful, however, if our illustrious leaders listened to ‘us’, the voters, when it comes to how the country is run.
Thing is though, the more they crack down on what we can and cannot say on social media, the less critique there is for them to have to listen to. Until next time.
20mph speed limit saves lives
THISbold statement is no longer merely a widely held opinion; there is now statistical evidence to support the validity of that claim.
Every seventeen minutes someone is killed or seriously injured in a collision on roads in the UK bringing unbearable grief to family and friends left mourning the loved ones who have been cruelly stolen from them, and survivors with injuries which can change their lives for ever.
Compelling new Transport for London research (published in May this year) revealed that the number of people killed and seriously injured on borough roads in London reduced by 34 per cent following the implementation of the 20mph speed limit between 1989 and 2013. The report, the first of its scale in London, analyses more than 150, 20mph schemes between 1989 and 2013,
Cllr John Wells is an independent Salisbury City Councillor for St Francis and Stratford and a Wiltshire Councillor, as well as mayor of Salisbury
examining the three-year periods surrounding the implementation of each 20mph scheme.
The report shows that 20mph schemes significantly reduced the number of deaths and serious injury, including:
n 75 per cent reduction in the number of children killed (from 4 to 1), compared with no change across the control group.
n 50% reduction in children's casualties (from 517 to 280), against the background trend within the control group of 20%.
n 40 per cent reduction in
the number of people killed (from 15 to 9), compared against the background trend of 7 per cent fewer fatalities across borough roads
n 34 per cent reduction in the number of people killed or seriously injured (from 395 to 260), compared against the background trend of a 15 per cent fall in people killed or seriously injured across borough roads
Will Norman (Walking and Cycling Commissioner) said: “Slower speeds not only protect the most vulnerable, they also help create safer, more
welcoming streets, and are a vital part of building a safer London for everyone.”
Jeremy Leach (20's Plenty for Us) said: "This latest research from TfL backs up other studies that show streets are safer with 20mph speed limits and more people able to walk, wheel and cycle and to be active.”
Currently half of London’s streets have 20mph speed limits, including 800 “school streets” across the city. Benefits of these measures include cutting toxic air pollution and giving thousands of children a safer, healthier way to get to school.
Finally, the predicted disadvantages for drivers simply haven’t materialised. The introduction of 20mph speed limits has not actually made journeys slower because journey times are largely dictated by junction delays, not vehicle speed.
Men Matters - really matter!
THISweek, I would like to reflect and pay tribute to the very many charities both national and local that have had their roots here in Salisbury and have benefited so many of our residents and indeed many people across the country.
Just over 20 years ago, during my mayoral year, we raised funds for the very first Food Bank in Salisbury. We can all see how that mushroomed and the Trussell Trust Food Bank then became a national organisation helping feed those in poverty. Others, such as Help for Heroes and Alabare, all had their beginnings here too.
We should also recognise the many local churches, organisations and other charities to numerous to mention that provide both local and international, essential and sometimes life-saving support.
One local charity, Safer and Supportive Salisbury, that
Cllr Jeremy Nettle is a Conservative Salisbury City Councillor for Fisherton and Bemerton Village
promotes health and wellbeing working with partners, emphasises that we men need to be more open to our friends and family, which I know may not be the typical macho thing to do with regard to men matters!
Men matters are important for several reasons, as they address various aspects of men's health, wellbeing, and social engagement.
Here are some key points:
1. Health and Wellbeing: Men's health issues, such as mental health, physical fitness, and chronic diseases, often go unaddressed due to societal
expectations and stigma. By focusing on men's matters, we can promote awareness, encourage regular health check-ups, and provide support for mental health challenges.
2. Social Engagement: Men may sometimes feel isolated or disconnected from their communities. Events and initiatives that focus on men's matters provide opportunities for social interaction, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
3. Breaking Stereotypes: Traditional gender roles and stereotypes can limit men's ability to express their emotions and seek help. By addressing men's matters, we can challenge these stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment for men to discuss their feelings and experiences.
4. Encouraging Healthy Lifestyles: Promoting sports,
exercise, and healthy living can help men lead healthier and more active lives. This not only improves physical health but also has positive effects on mental wellbeing.
5. Community Involvement: Encouraging men to participate in local clubs, volunteering, and community projects can enhance their sense of purpose and contribution to society. This can lead to personal growth and a stronger community. By addressing these areas, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for men, ultimately leading to improved health, wellbeing, and quality of life.
If you or you know anyone who may be interested in seeing a showcase of activities, clubs, sports, social and wellbeing opportunities for men of all ages come along to City Hall on Tuesday, September 16, between 3pm and 7pm.
Good weather - bad for eco-friendly sunflowers
THE recent summer heatwaves have stunted the growth of 40,000 sunflower seeds planted on the edge of the New Forest.
Sunflowers at The Picking Patch, at Bicton Manor Farm, near Fordingbridge, have been affected by soaring temperatures, staff said.
The small farmstead has been maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to
growing crops, relying on rainfall to water the two-acre site.
However, the recent scorching and dry weather has sadly seen plants growing to half of their expected height.
But while this may seem bad news, it has provided a novel experience for many young fans picking their own colourful flowers.
The Sunflower Patch, beside
the A338, has seen a similar ecological effect hit their five-acre puzzle Maize Maze and have adapted to the situation creating many more interactive and photo opportunities for visitors to the site, which opened on August 22.
Staying optimistic, Patch founder Niall Smith, said: “Summer sunshine is joyous, but the consequences for our
crops has seen them struggle to grow and reach their full potential with the lack of rainfall.
“While not ideal, it has forced a burst of creativity with many new ideas to entertain, bringing memory making moments to family days out with games like the Sherlock Bones trail and the water themed Pirates Splashdown in the countryside.”
Grants available to farmers struggling to feed stock amid drought
FARMERS struggling to feed their stock due to the ongoing drought are being advised to apply for a one-off grant.
The grant, created by the Addington Fund and supported by the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust, will be able to prevent animals from suffering from lack of feed or bedding if hardship is evident.
To be eligible, working farmers must demonstrate that their main income is from farming and agricultural holding and have insufficient feed/fodder or straw to prevent an animal welfare issue with the livestock. They must also show that they are unable
to purchase feed or fodder and are experiencing hardship because of the weather, are unable to release funds themselves and mitigated against the situation by reviewing stock numbers in line with available resources, and are unable to draw on any reserves/savings/or access an overdraft facility.
The fund can ensure a one-off delivery of animal feed/fodder/straw to provide farmers with some short-term relief or with a grant towards the cost of purchasing the items.
An Addington Fund spokesperson said: “We appreciate this is a very challenging
time for many farmers, but in order that we can direct support to those in the greatest need, please only apply if you have exhausted all other avenues of help.”
They added: “We regret that we are unable to assist when there is a loss, or reduction of, income due to market forces nor can we provide grants towards business debts."
Priority will be given to those deemed most in need.
To apply, visit https://www. addingtonfund.org.uk/latest-news/2025-dryweather-emergency-grants.
The good weather has proved difficult for sunflowers at The Picking Patch
Picture: Russell Sach
Dozens of electric cars now eligible for government discount sheme
MORE
electric cars have been added to a list of those qualified for a government discount – including some who will receive the full £3,750 price cut.
The government Electric Car Grant scheme, which offers discounts of varying amounts on the purchase price depending on levels of emissions in the manufacturing process.
Last month saw the first tranche of vehicles qualifying for the full £3,750 discount, after a range of cars were unveiled in Band 2 – a £1,500 price cut.
Overall, the number of cars so far announced as qualifying for a discount has reached 37 as part of the £650 million scheme. The discounts are available on electric vehicles (EVs) bought or leased, with a price of up to £37,000 in a bid to support more affordable options.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander (Lab, Swindon
South), said: "We’re delivering on our promise to make it easier and cheaper for families to go electric.
“This is about backing drivers, putting money back into people’s pockets and creating the jobs and growth that will drive Britain forward, delivering on our Plan for Change.”
The full list of vehicles that qualify for a discount, as of September 2, is:
£2,750 discount:
Ford Puma Gen-E
Ford e-Tourneo
£1,500 discount:
Alpine A290
Citroen e-Berlingo
Citroen e-C3
Citroen e-C3 Aircross
Citroen e-C4
Citroen e-C4 X
Citroen e-C5 Aircross
Citroen e-Spacetourer
Cupra Born
DS 3
DS No 4
Nissan Micra
Nissan Ariya
Peugeot e-208
Peugeot e-2008
Peugeot e-308
Peugeot e-408
Peugeot e-Rifter
Peugeot e-Traveller
Renault 4 E-Tech
Renault 5 E-Tech
Renault Megane E-Tech
Renault Scenic E-Tech
Skoda Elroq
Skoda Enyaq
Toyota bZ4X
Toyota Proace City Verso
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
Vauxhall Combo Life Electric
Vauxhall Astra Electric
Vauxhall Mokka Electric
Vauxhall Frontera Electric
Vauxhall Grandland Electric
Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric
Volkswagen ID3
Responding to the latest additions, RAC head of policy, Simon Williams, said: “It’s great to see details of the first two models qualifying for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant. This represents a significant saving for drivers which we hope further stimulates demand and encourages other manufacturers to follow suit.
“We’ve long called for the Government to reintroduce an EV grant aimed at the more affordable end of the market, so it’s very positive to see this happening in support of the switch to electric motoring.”
Motoring with David Young
Motoring
Fresh text scam sees drivers urged to pay parking fine that doesn't exist
DRIVERS
are being warned of a new text scam that falsely claims a parking ticket has not been paid.
The recipient, fearing they have been issued with a ticket, is warned they could face increased charges if they do not pay the fine immediately via a link.
However, the parking ticket does not exist - and the money is simply stolen.
The scam was exposed by experts at the Express, who said it looked "scarily real", with the hoax payment portal mirroring the official GOV.UK website.
The message includes warnings that the payment must be made urgently or face a
Pets
higher penalty – as well as impact credit ratings.
An example scam message read: "Parking Charge Notice (PCN): The record shows that you have unpaid parking fines.
"The deadline for paying the fine is August 23, 2025. If you fail to pay the fine on time, you may be subject to additional fines and interest."
Anyone clicking on the link is asked to provide a postcode of their local council, car registration number, and pay a £20 fine.
However, drivers are being warned not to click the link and to never share personal or financial details after recieving a text message.
Home Euthanasia For Your Pet
A
ngel Paws is a small and independently run mobile veterinary service based in Shrewton in south Wiltshire which provides peaceful pet euthanasia in your own home. Operating within approximately 20 miles of Shrewton, Angel Paws enables pet owners to have loving and dignified pet euthanasia in the privacy, security and comfort of their own homes. Angel Paws also offers a wide selection of cremation and memorial options for your pet’s remains through our cremation partners.
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.
The GOV.UK website said: "Do not give out private information (such as bank details or passwords), reply to text messages, download attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they’re genuine.
"Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 - it’s free. This will report the message to your mobile phone provider."
RAC spokesperson, Rod Dennis, said: "This new text message trick is the latest in a series of nasty scams where criminals are catching drivers out by imitating online payment methods. In the short-term, the cost is unnecessary and expensive as drivers end up
paying a fine for an offence they didn’t commit. The long-term implications can be even worse if scammers use their bank or personal details elsewhere. It’s incredibly unusual to receive a text about a parking fine if there wasn’t a ticket on your car in the first place and the ticket includes payment information.
"To be safe rather than sorry, we’d advise any recipients of the text to first check if they need to pay a fine with the authority rather than following the URL. If a fine is due, ask for the payment options and, if you choose to pay it online, make sure the website is the genuine one and that any details you enter are sent securely."
Dog law petition
AWILTSHIRE dog owner launched a petition calling for a person to have committed an offence if their dog attacked another pet.
Jess Rozee called for action after her cat was killed in Swindon by a loose dog.
The petition, which gained more than 21,000 signatures, said: "We want the government to make it an offence for an person's dog to kill another pet and prosecute owners if this happens.
"We think that owners must be held accountable and face consequences if their pet kills another pet.
Compassionate Home Euthanasia Service For Your Beloved Pet
Saying goodbye to a cherished pet is one of life’s hardest moments. Angel Paws offers loving and dignified pet euthanasia in the privacy and comfort of your own home. Let your pet find peace surrounded by familiar faces and their favourite place. Trisha, a fully qualified veterinarian, ensures the utmost care and respect during your appointment.
"We believe such measures could protect other pets and cultivate a responsible pet ownership culture. We feel that strengthening legal requirements could ensure a safer environment for pets and people.
"Let us take a stand to protect our family pets and prevent the heartache of losing a beloved
animal due to the negligence of others.
"We think that immediate legislative action is required to prevent further tragedies."
A Cats Protection spokesperson backed calls for strengthening of the law.
However, in a response to the petition, the Government said laws already existed to tackle the problem.
A spokesperson said: "The government recognises that dog attacks can have horrific consequences, and it takes this issue very seriously.
"The police and local authorities already have a range of powers available to tackle dangerous dogs and irresponsible dog ownership, including in instances where a dog attacks another animal, including pets."
A range of laws are in place to protect pets, with some carrying prison, they added.
See https://petition. parliament.uk/petitions/729597.
Job market cooled between May and July, new figures show
VACANCIES fell along with the number of people on payrolls, according to the latest official job figures.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the number of job openings fell by 5.8%, to 718,000, between May to July, with evidence some firms are not be recruiting new workers or replacing leavers.
Meanwhile, average wage growth remained at 5%, while the unemployment rate was also unchanged, at 4.7%.
The ONS has said payroll numbers should be treated with caution and it is taking additional steps to address concerns about the quality of the data.
Data came after the National Living Wage rose from £11.44 to £12.21 in April, as well as employers paying an increased National Insurance Contribution of 15%, while the salary threshold triggering payment by companies was lowered from £9,100 a year to £5,000.
Puzzle solutions
Edition 76
•
• Log burner flexi liner installations
• Fireplace alterations drone surveys
• Cherry picker & scaffold if required
• Thatch property wood burners
• Plastering rendering exterior decorating
All the suspects are in custody and have not left the premises since the death occurred - but they did have time to stash the murder weapon. insuring a
There has been another murder. This time the Wessex Contabulary have tasked you with searching the home of the late botanist Dr. Seymour Mcguffin - who was murdered during his annual family reunion.
Luxury residential care at The Old Rectory
From our excellent home cooking to individually decorated private rooms and above all real loving care… life is tailored to you.
The Old Rectory is a beautiful residential care home that specialises in dementia care. Tastefully converted from a former rectory and carefully adapted to make it safe and secure for residents giving them the freedom to have a full and active life. We offer a caring and welcoming environment that is a true home in every sense of the word, where people with dementia are respected as individuals.
Residential care Day care Respite care
Convalescent stays
