Fly-tipping car set to be crushed!
AVEHICLE used to flytip in Wiltshire will be put on public display before being crushed in a move designed to send a stark warning to would-be offenders.
The vehicle was seized after Wiltshire Council launched an investigation into an incident on May 11 in Bulford, where plastic pipes were dumped on a public right of way.
Council CCTV cameras captured the incident, allowing environmental enforcement officers to identify the vehicle involved.
Working with Wiltshire Police, officers tracked down and seized the car before interviewing the person responsible under caution.
The offender was handed a £1,000 fixed penalty notice.
However, the case did not
end there.
The driver failed to provide proof of ownership within the required 15-day period and reportedly had no documentation for the vehicle. It has now been legally forfeited and is due to be destroyed. Before that happens, the
The car is being put on display before being crushed to show people the potential impact of fly-tipping
vehicle will be displayed outside County Hall in Trowbridge on Thursday (June 25).
Wiltshire Council said the move was intended to show residents the consequences of environmental crime and act as a deterrent to others considering
illegally dumping waste.
Cabinet member for highways, Cllr Martin Smith, said: “Let this be a clear warning – if you fly-tip in Wiltshire, we will find you, and you will face the consequences.
“This person not only dumped waste illegally but has now lost their vehicle as a result.
“We are taking the extra step of putting this vehicle on display before it is crushed, so people can see exactly what happens when you choose to damage our environment and ignore the law.”
The council said it has expanded its use of overt and covert CCTV cameras across Wiltshire to tackle fly-tipping and other environmental offences, although locations are not made public.
Picture: Wiltshire Council
Chick, chick, hooray at care home!
RESIDENTS at The Cedars Care Home in Landford have been enjoying a heartwarming new experience after helping to hatch and rear a brood of chicks.
The eggs, supplied by Incredible Eggs in Cornwall, were carefully incubated before hatching in a brooding unit with residents, staff, families and visitors eagerly watching every stage of the process.
To add to the excitement, the home launched a competition to name the chicks.
Participants had to guess both the colour of the chick inside the egg and the exact time it would hatch.
Winning names included Scramble, Moose, Beaver, Ruby, Sylvia, Polly Pocket and the crowd favourite, Hennifer Aniston.
The chicks quickly became the stars of the home, filling reception with cheerful chirping and sparking conversations among residents as they watched the birds grow and develop their own personalities.
Pupils from Whiteparish All Saints Primary School, who regularly visit the home,
also enjoyed meeting and handling the chicks.
General manager at The Cedars, Anish Abraham, said the project had been a huge success.
“We were so thrilled to see how engaged everyone was in waiting for the chicks to hatch and it was certainly a unique way for everyone to get involved and enjoy nature,” he said.
“The chicks brought back many memories for our residents, as many had grown up in the countryside and had experience of rearing animals from a young age.”
The home said the project not only brought joy and excitement but also encouraged social interaction and reminiscence among residents, proving that you are never too old to try something new.
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County leader writes to minister over fire funding after closures row
WILTSHIRE Council has written to the government urging ministers to review the way fire services are funded amid ongoing concerns over the future of several county stations.
The move follows a crossparty motion passed by councillors last month opposing plans that originally proposed closing fire stations at Bradford on Avon, Mere, Ramsbury and Wilton.
Since then, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has revised its plans, with Mere Fire Station set to be saved, while Wilton is instead recommended to merge with Salisbury as part of a 12-month trial.
However, uncertainty remains over the long-term future of services and the impact any changes could have on emergency response times,
particularly in rural communities, Wiltshire Councillors said.
During a consultation over the proposals, at a full council meeting on May 19, councillors voted in favour of a motion calling for action to protect Wiltshire’s fire stations and raise concerns with ministers about funding pressures facing
the fire service.
Now, council leader Cllr Ian Thorn has written to Samantha Dixon, Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State for Fire, arguing the current funding model is contributing to difficult decisions about stations like those in Wiltshire.
In the letter, he said councillors were deeply
concerned about the potential impact on rural areas.
"These proposals would disproportionately affect our rural communities, as well as smaller towns and villages, which are already more vulnerable due to their geography," he said.
"A county such as Wiltshire should not be in a position where fire stations are at risk of closure. They are critical infrastructure and should be recognised as such."
The council is calling on the government to review the Revenue Support Grant, arguing current funding arrangements do not properly reflect Wiltshire’s circumstances and place additional pressure on services.
The fire authority is expected to make final decisions on its proposals at the end of the month.
Special event treats carers at Salisbury care home
A WILTON care home has been showing its appreciation for the people at the heart of its service during Carers Week.
Staff at Wilton Place were treated to a range of snacks and goodies throughout the week as managers looked to recognise the dedication and hard work of the home’s care team.
The annual national campaign celebrates carers across the UK and highlights the vital role they play in supporting others, often around the clock.
At Wilton Place, tables stocked with everything from sweet treats to healthier options provided staff with a chance to take a break, catch up with colleagues and enjoy a small thank-you for the work they do every day.
General manager
Antoinette said the week was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on a team whose efforts often go unnoticed.
“This week is all about recognising the incredible people who make our home such a special place,” she said.
“Our care team gives so much of themselves to our residents, and Carers Week gives us the chance to give something back.
“These treats are a simple gesture, but they come with a huge amount of gratitude. We are incredibly proud of our team and everything they do.”
Carers Week is held annually to raise awareness of caring and to recognise the contribution made by both professional and unpaid carers.
Cllr Ian Thorne, inset, has written to the Government over fire service funding
A host of treats were handed out to carers at the event
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Nominations open for awards to recognise heroic health workers
PATIENTS and families are being given the chance to say a heartfelt thank you to the doctors, nurses, porters, receptionists and hospital teams who made a difference when they needed it most.
Nominations have opened for the Patient Experience Award as part of the Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust Staff Awards 2026, with members of the public invited to recognise staff who have gone above and beyond in caring for patients.
The award celebrates individuals or teams at Salisbury District Hospital who have made a lasting impact, whether through exceptional care, outstanding kindness, innovative ideas or improvements to patient services.
The annual awards shine a spotlight on the people working behind the scenes and on the
frontline who help thousands of patients every year.
This year’s ceremony will take place in the grounds of Salisbury Cathedral in September.
Hospital bosses said public nominations are a vital part of the awards, giving patients the opportunity to recognise moments of care and compassion that often go unnoticed.
Managing director at Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Nick Johnson, said: “We know this has been a challenging time for the NHS, with continued pressures on our services.
“Despite this, our teams continue to put patients at the heart of everything they do, delivering outstanding care with compassion and kindness every day.
“Hearing from our patients and communities is incredibly important – your nominations help us celebrate those who
make a real difference and inspire us to keep improving the care we provide.”
For many patients, it could be the nurse who offered reassurance during a difficult diagnosis, the healthcare assistant who went the extra mile or an entire ward team that provided exceptional support during a hospital stay.
Nominations close on July 8 with winners due to be announced at a special awards evening on September 10. The event is supported by Salisbury Hospital charity, the Stars Appeal.
Nick added: “We hope to create an awards event that truly acknowledges the incredible work and unwavering dedication our staff have shown over the past year.”
Anyone wishing to nominate a member of staff or team can do so through the hospital’s awards website: https://www. salisbury.nhs.uk/about-us/ staff-awards-nomination-form.
Winners at last year's Staff Awards
Police days of arrests, pursuits - and discoveries under a bed...
POLICE in Ringwood have revealed details of a busy few days that saw officers arrest a suspected drink-driver, track down a wanted man - and locate a recalled prisoner hiding in a cupboard.
One of the most dramatic incidents unfolded in the Bickerley area on June 18, when officers spotted a man wanted by Wiltshire Police who was also allegedly driving without a licence.
When officers attempted to catch up with him, the driver reportedly abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot.
Police quickly located the car and, with help from members of the public, tracked down the suspect a short time later.
A 49-year-old man from Fordingbridge was arrested in
connection with the outstanding offence and on suspicion of drink-driving. His vehicle was seized, a force spokesperson said.
The following day, a neighbourhood policing sergeant working in plain clothes noticed a man who appeared intoxicated in the Lidl car park in Ringwood.
After watching him get into a vehicle and drive away, officers stopped the car.
The driver allegedly blew a roadside breath test reading of 104 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath –almost three times the legal limit of 35.
A 52-year-old man from Ringwood was arrested and taken into custody.
Officers also tracked down a
prolific shoplifter who was wanted after being recalled to prison for theft offences.
Despite assurances from a resident that he was not at the address, police found the man hiding inside a cupboard.
The neighbourhood team credited residents for helping officers locate both wanted men.
Police are also trying to reunite an owner with a bicycle found near Tesco in Poulner, which is believed to have been lost or stolen.
The update was shared by PC Bigland, who thanked the community for its support and assistance in helping officers tackle crime across the area.
A car recovered by police in Ringwood
Raising charity funds from behind bars!
HANDCUFFS, courtroom drama and a packed Guildhall helped raise more than £9,000 for Salisbury Hospice Charity during a lively fundraiser in the city centre.
The charity’s much-loved Jail & Bail event returned on June 12, turning heads across the city as five well-known local business figures were dramatically 'arrested' for a string of tongue-in-cheek workplace crimes.
From strategic overthinking to terrible office banter and even aggravated tax optimisation, the fictional offences brought plenty
of laughter as crowds gathered to watch the action unfold.
Wiltshire Police volunteered their time to arrest the suspects before they were hauled before a mock court at Salisbury Guildhall.
Presiding over proceedings was Judge Wendy Warwick White, while Salisbury town crier Jef Hutchby added to the spectacle by announcing each prisoner to onlookers.
After being found guilty, the defendants were locked in a specially-built jail cell in the city centre and challenged to raise bail money throughout the day.
There was even an energetic workout session in the exercise yard to keep spirits high.
By the end of the event, an impressive £9,334 had been raised to support specialist care for patients and families supported by Salisbury Hospice.
Salisbury Hospice Charity corporate partnerships manager, Louise Compton, said: "I’m amazed by the incredible generosity we’ve seen this year. The amount raised exemplifies how much Salisbury Hospice matters to the community, which is deeply heart-warming to see. The phenomenal support of local businesses and their
networks mean so much to us at Salisbury Hospice Charity. We couldn’t do what we do without them."
Among those taking part were representatives from businesses including Xeinadin, Fawcetts, Serco, Steele Rose and Business Through Referrals.
The charity also thanked volunteers, Wiltshire Police, Salisbury Guildhall, food donors and businesses that helped make the day happen.
Donations are still open to support the fundraiser and Salisbury Hospice’s work in the community.
Participants were arrested, tried and jailed during the day-long fundraiser in Salisbury
Pictures: Atlas Photography
Fine despite recycling centre claim
AN AMESBURY resident has been hit with a £1,000 fine after leaving a pile of waste on a roadside verge and claiming they planned to come back for it later.
Wiltshire Council launched an investigation after controlled waste, including wood, cardboard and metal, was discovered on a grass verge beside Boscombe Road on April 29.
Environmental enforcement officers traced the waste back to a resident, who admitted leaving the materials there after being unable to dispose of them at a household recycling centre because the appropriate containers were unavailable.
The resident told officers they intended to return the waste to the recycling centre at a later date.
However, the rubbish remained by the roadside for
around eight days.
Council investigators also found the individual had enough space at home to store the waste safely until it could be disposed of properly.
As a result, Wiltshire Council issued a £1,000 fixed penalty notice, which has since been paid in full.
Because the case was dealt
with by way of an FPN rather than through the courts, the resident cannot be named.
Cabinet member for highways Cllr Martin Smith said: “Decisions like leaving waste by the roadside, even with the intention of coming back for it, still amount to fly-tipping – there is no grey area.
“Once waste is left in a public place, the impact is immediate. Recycling centres can occasionally be busy, but that does not justify abandoning waste in public spaces.”
The council is reminding residents that waste should always be stored securely and disposed of through authorised channels.
The waste was found discarded on a verge in Boscombe Road on April 29
Picture: Wiltshire Council
Long-hidden bedroom open to public
AHIDDEN chapter of Salisbury’s history has been revealed with the opening of a long-hidden room at Mompesson House.
The National Trust property’s North-East Bedroom opened on June 12 after months of conservation work to restore it to its 18th-century appearance — the first time it has been presented this way since the historic house opened to the public in 1977.
Visitors can now step inside a room featuring original wall panelling and rare papier-mâché detailing, offering a glimpse into Georgian craftsmanship and the lives of those who once called the Cathedral Close house home.
The restoration shines a light on Mompesson House’s former residents, from the influential Mompesson family and Bishops of Salisbury to its final resident, Denis Martineau.
Among pieces on show are items rarely seen by the public, including Victorian resident Barbara Townsend’s watercolours and unusual objects uncovered beneath the floorboards during conservation work.
Georgiana Cooper, collections and house officer at Mompesson House, said:
"When I first saw the NorthEast Bedroom a few years ago, I
was so intrigued by its potential, and to see that realised has been so exciting.
"I can’t wait for visitors to be able to see more of Mompesson than they ever have before."
The opening comes as Mompesson House launches a summer programme, including a Regency-inspired Mrs Portman’s Ball, live music in the gardens, Summer of Play family activities and two book fairs.
Mompesson House is open Friday to Tuesday until November 1, from 11am to 4pm, with last entry at 3.30pm. Entry is free for National Trust members, with normal admission charges for nonmembers. No booking is required.
n More information is available at www.nationaltrust. org.uk/mompesson-house.
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A host of features have been revealed and restored in the hidden bedroom Pictures: National Trust
Calls for answers over future of A303 at Stonehenge after tunnel cancellation
LEADERS in Wiltshire have called on the Government to provide answers over the future of the A303 corridor following the cancellation of the controversial Stonehenge tunnel plan.
A development consent order for the project was officially cancelled in March by the Department for Transport, which said there had been a "substantial change in the scheme's deliverability".
The move was welcomed by some and opposed by others, with more than £179 million already spent on the project.
Now, Wiltshire Council has written to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander demanding urgent answers over the future of the route.
Council leaders said communities across the county have been left facing worsening congestion, rat-runs and uncertainty, with no clear plan
for what happens next. Leader, Councillor Ian Thorn, called for clarity on how ministers intend to tackle long-standing problems on one of the South West’s most important roads.
The move follows a crossparty motion approved by councillors last month calling for a “funded alternative” to
improve the A303 after the tunnel project was scrapped.
The council warned congestion on the route continues to push traffic through nearby villages, affecting safety, air quality and residents’ quality of life.
Cllr Thorn said the A303 remains “vital to the connectivity of the South West
and to the economic wellbeing of Wiltshire’s communities and businesses”.
“Since the cancellation of the tunnel scheme, Wiltshire has been left with the ongoing legacy of these traffic problems, without a clear plan for how they will now be resolved,” he added.
The council is now asking the government to explain what short-term support will be offered to communities hit by congestion, what the next steps are for improving the road, and whether ministers will commit to a funded replacement plan.
The authority also wants a timeline for consultation and decision-making.
Cllr Thorn said the council was ready to work with government, National Highways and stakeholders to find a solution balancing transport needs with environmental and heritage sensitivities.
Emergency response after Land Rover starts barn fire
FIREFIGHTERS were called to a dramatic overnight barn fire in Laverstock after a Land Rover burst into flames and the blaze spread to the building.
Crews from Salisbury and Wilton were sent to the incident at around 2.40am on June 13.
Salisbury’s on-call firefighters were first at the scene, supported by Salisbury wholetime crews and firefighters from Wilton.
A Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said when crews arrived, they found a Land Rover Defender “well alight” inside a barn, with flames already spreading to the structure.
They quickly launched an operation to tackle the blaze and stop it spreading further.
Wilton Fire Station said both its pumping appliance and water carrier were mobilised in the early hours to support the response and help maintain water supplies.
Crews described the incident as a challenging fire, requiring a swift response and coordinated firefighting efforts.
No injuries have been reported and the cause of the blaze is under investigation.
The damaged Land Rover and barn after the fire in Laverstock
Picture: Salisbury Fire Station
Thousands mark Summer Solstice at Stonehenge during "successful" event
MORE than 20,000 people gathered at Stonehenge to celebrate the Summer Solstice.
A stunning sunrise greeted the June 21 solstice over the ancient monument to mark the start of the longest day of the year. Thousands travelled from across the UK and beyond to witness the event, which saw crowds welcomed into the stone circle overnight before the sun rose.
The magical moment was also shared with a global audience, with more than 180,000 people watching
English Heritage’s livestreams of the sunset and sunrise online.
Georgia Butters, English Heritage’s head of Stonehenge, said: “There was a truly gorgeous sunrise at Stonehenge this year – and it was a really memorable occasion.
“Coming together at this iconic monument for the Summer Solstice is a tradition that brings people together from near and far. It was wonderful to see families and friends taking part in this joyous experience.”
Wiltshire Police said the vast majority of visitors celebrating
responsibly.
Two people were arrested on suspicion of assault, while several drones were seized after a temporary restricted airspace was introduced around the World Heritage Site.
Chief Sup Guy Elkins said: “This year’s summer solstice was a safe and successful occasion, and I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended, including our communities and the visitors to the site, who have enjoyed the event in the spirit in which it is held."
“We would also like to thank
our partners and stakeholders, and of course the National Trust and English Heritage, for working with us. Collectively, we have ensured that everyone could enjoy the event peacefully.”
The celebration came as the UK saw record-breaking temperatures - and a red health alerts was issued for "extreme heat" by the Met Office, as thermometers hit 40C.
However, the heat is expected to ease through this week, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures around 23C as the week progresses.
Around 20,000 people gathered at Stonehenge to welcome the Summer Solstice on June 21
Picture: English Heritage safely and
Summer Solstice was hailed a success by English heritage and police Pictures: English Heritage, left, and Wiltshire Police, above
How you can get involved in £20m project to regenerate Bemerton Heath
ARTISTS, filmmakers, writers and creatives are being invited to help capture the voice of Salisbury Bemerton residents as a new community board begins work on a major long-term regeneration plan.
The board, which brings together residents, community groups, businesses, public sector partners, councillors and the area’s MP, will shape a 10-year vision for the area under the government’s Pride in Place programme.
Salisbury Bemerton is expected to receive up to £20 million in funding over the next decade, aimed at supporting regeneration and strengthening communities.
As part of its early engagement work, the board is now seeking creatives to lead a summer programme of community activity designed to gather views in imaginative ways.
Rather than traditional consultation methods, artists will be asked to work directly with residents to explore their experiences, ideas and ambitions through storytelling, photography, film, poetry,
digital media and public artwork. These could include live events, murals or other creative installations reflecting the identity of the area.
The aim is to produce a series of “narratives” that reflect what life is really like in Bemerton and what people want to see change over the next decade.
Chair of the community board, Tom Belshaw, said: “The creative arts are a such a powerful vehicle for human
expression, they help us to tell our story.
“These ‘narratives’ will form an important part of the community board’s engagement work, ensuring they are rooted in the lives and experiences of our neighbourhoods.”
Wiltshire Council cabinet member for economic development, regeneration and assets, Cllr Helen Belcher, added: “This is an exciting opportunity to engage with the local community in a creative
and diverse way to ensure their voices are at the heart of the programme moving forward.
“I would encourage artists and creatives to apply as soon as possible.”
Small grants are available to support the work, which must take place over the summer, with findings reported back in early autumn. Applications close at 5pm on Friday, July 17. For details on how to apply, email prideinplace@wiltshire. gov.uk.
Young Kip is walking for dad as well at charity's Walk For Wards
MOST three-year-olds spend their weekends racing around playgrounds or learning to ride a scooter.
But little Kip Martin, pictured, has set himself a special challenge – walking 3km to raise money for Salisbury District Hospital, where doctors and nurses are helping treat his dad’s cancer.
Kip, from Baughurst in Hampshire, will take part in the Stars Appeal’s Walk for Wards event at Wilton House on July 5 alongside his parents, Simon and Rosie, and his 16-month-old sister, Pandora, known as Panda.
And while thousands of adults are expected to take part, Kip may be one of the youngest fundraisers on the day.
“I wanted to run a marathon to raise
some money for the hospital but it’s too long for my little legs,” he said. “So, I am walking 3km.”
Kip’s father Simon, 40, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in March and has been undergoing treatment at Salisbury Hospital.
Throughout months of appointments and treatment, Simon said his son has been a source of strength and positivity.
“Kip’s been absolutely amazing while I’ve been undergoing my treatment,” he said. “He is really excited about doing Walk for Wards and wants to help people in hospital.”
Simon has been supported by a number of services funded by the Stars Appeal,
including hospital chaplains, aromatherapy sessions and the charity-funded WiFi service.
The WiFi became especially important during a three-week stay in hospital.
“I didn’t get mobile phone reception, so it meant I could have video calls with Kip, Panda and my wife,” Simon said. “Being able to stay in touch was huge for us as a family and it made me feel less alone.
“I can’t emphasise enough how impactful the conversation with the chaplain was in helping me get to grips with what I was facing. From that moment, we have been really positive about what’s been happening.”
Get out in the open this week!
FROM wild swimming and riverside adventures to yoga, wildlife walks and family festivals, Salisbury is set to celebrate the great outdoors as Breathing Spaces 2026 got underway at the weekend.
The 10-day programme, running until July 5, features more than 30 free and low-cost activities aimed at helping people improve their wellbeing, connect with nature and meet others in the community.
Organisers are encouraging residents of all ages to make the most of Salisbury’s parks, rivers, nature reserves and green spaces as part of the city-wide celebration.
Across this week, people can take part in guided nature walks, conservation projects, gardening activities, paddle sport taster sessions, fishing experiences, cycling events, wildlife talks and wellbeing walks.
Breathing Spaces has been
organised by Safer and Supportive Salisbury (SaSS), a partnership focused on reducing isolation and improving wellbeing across the city.
SaSS chair, Anne Trevett BEM, said: “Since announcing Breathing Spaces, we’ve been delighted by the positive response from local
organisations and residents.
“This programme showcases the incredible green and blue spaces we have in and around Salisbury and the many friendly groups that help people enjoy them. We hope people will use Breathing Spaces as an opportunity to try something new, meet new people and
discover just how beneficial spending time outdoors can be for both physical and mental wellbeing.”
Organisers said the programme offers a chance to discover hidden corners of Salisbury while enjoying the physical and mental benefits of spending time outdoors.
The charity bears are back in town!
ONE of Salisbury’s bestloved summer traditions is back - with 100 teddy bears setting up home in shop windows across the city for the annual Salisbury Bear Hunt.
The popular trail runs until Saturday, September 5, giving families the chance to search for hidden bears across Salisbury while raising money for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice.
The event, now in its second decade, has long been a fixture of the school holidays.
For the past 10 years it was organised by volunteers for Save the Children, but 2026 marks a new chapter after Wiltshire children’s hospice Julia’s House was chosen to take over.
Children and families can collect free entry forms and search for as many of the bears as possible.
Completed forms can be posted into the Bear Post Box at
Salisbury Information Centre for the chance to win prizes donated by county businesses.
Julia’s House fundraising manager, Alice Chalmers, said:
“We’re delighted to be taking over the Salisbury Bear Hunt, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to the previous organiser Su Lycett and the Save the Children volunteers for choosing Julia’s House as the event’s new guardian.
“Salisbury Bear Hunt is a fun way to raise awareness and donations for Julia’s House and the specialist care that we provide to children and families in Salisbury, and across Wiltshire and Dorset.”
Former organiser Su Lycett said she was proud of the trail.
“It’s been fantastic to organise the Salisbury Bear Hunt for Save the Children for 10 wonderful years, and we’re so pleased this popular community event can continue
with another very important local children’s charity.”
As part of Children’s Hospice Week, Salisbury schools taking part in Julia’s House’s Big Teddy Takeover can name some of the bears featured in the trail.
Free entry forms will be available from the Julia’s House charity shop, Salisbury Information Centre, Salisbury Library and local bookshops. The prize draw will take place on Saturday, September 12.
The teddies are out and about in Salisbury!
A previous People in the Park event
From
A countryside scene, by Tom Hackforth
new ducklings to old stones A fox in the evening light in Salisbury, by Tracey Crowley
Resplendent in the sun, by Carol Byrne
Ducklings in Water Lane, Salisbury, by Mark Warner
A fossil in a rock, by Colin Newbury
Pyramid Orchids at Lynchets Field, Amesbury, by Jane Luce
The Sky Flier at Solstice Sounds, by Scott Blackmore
Politics
My efforts to remove planters...
IWRITE this article as we live in troubled times. While the war with Iran evidently isn’t yet over, Ukraine still struggles to gain the weapons it needs to push back Putin’s army and we wonder whether the UK’s most unpopular Prime Minister of all time is about to be replaced by someone who will make matters even worse.
So my commenting on mundane local problems seems inappropriate but I feel I must mention my frustration at failing to resolve a local safety issue.
In 2024, Fisherton Street was transformed into a more pedestrian-friendly environment using the UK Government’s Future High Street Fund.
The design included a ‘build-out’ or ‘pinch-point’ which has created unnecessary congestion, driver frustration, degraded air quality and a significantly increased risk of accidents.
Even pedestrians and cyclists fear for their safety when navigating this largely unpopular feature.
Chris Taylor is a Conservative Salisbury City Councillor for St Paul’s and a Wiltshire Councillor
Having studied the Consultation Report, I find that only 179 residents, out of around 40-50,000 in Salisbury, responded. The report failed to mention that the view along the street was going to be deliberately blocked by two unsightly and ugly square red metal ‘planters’.
The official Stage 3 Road Safety Audit team observed the site for two relatively short periods on a single day but recorded numerous ‘near misses’.
Their report recommended the red planters be relocated.
Surely this safety recommendation would have been implemented without delay? However, Wiltshire Council is ‘monitoring the situation’, which means waiting for recorded (i.e. serious) accident statistics before they do anything.
So in a bid to prevent a tragic accident, I tried to encourage more prompt implementation by taking it through a Highways Improvement Request process which required me to gain the approval of my fellow Salisbury Area Board Wiltshire Councillors.
Surely accepting the recommendation of a Road Safety Audit would be uncontroversial and nonpolitical?
Despite the support at the Local Highways and Footways Improvement Group Meeting of
five members of the public which included a senior engineer from MOD Porton Down, a driver trained by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (and passed their advanced driving test), a senior aviation safety expert and a local driving instructor who runs MBM Driving Tuition School and is chair of the Salisbury Driving Instructor Association, my request faced opposition.
Unbelievably, one councillor insisted Fisherton Street was not a street of shops and restaurants but a ‘residential street’. Another was insistent that cars should not be allowed into the centre of the town and this kind of deterrent to motorists should be encouraged.
I confess I was not surprised by such opinions but given the massive support from members of the public, I was very disappointed that all in the room bar Cllr Ed Rimmer (Bemerton Heath) failed to support the request.
I hope the accident I fear never occurs but for now I know I have done the best I can.
£4.4m support for struggling households
HOUSEHOLDS in Wiltshire struggling amid a cost-of-living crisis and increasing energy bills are being encouraged to seek help from a government-funded scheme. Wiltshire Council is delivering money from the Government's Crisis and Resilience Fund to residents facing financial hardship, working with organisations including Wiltshire Citizens Advice and the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE).
The council has been allocated £13.4m through the Government's Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) over the three-year programme, including £4.4m in 2026/27, £4.4m in 2027/28 and £4.6m in 2028/29.
In addition, the council received £783,725 in extra funding specifically to support households that rely on oil heating.
The council's Crisis and Resilience Fund is designed to provide immediate assistance to households in urgent financial difficulty, while also helping residents build longerterm resilience.
The council's Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub continues to act as the front door for those who may need support through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, providing advice, assessing residents' needs, and connecting people to financial support and partner services.
The hub is open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm, and Friday, 9am to 4pm. It can be contacted on 0300 003 4576 or at wellbeinghub@wiltshire.gov.uk.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Wiltshire Council deputy leader and cabinet member for organisational strategy, digital and leisure, libraries and culture, said: "We remain fully committed to supporting those in crisis, while also strengthening the foundations for long-term, preventative support to help stop people getting into difficulty in the future."
Shareen Elnagy, project manager at the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), said: "This fund has arrived at a tough time for hundreds of residents who rely on heating
oil, with rising prices making it harder to pay bills or buy essentials like food.
"With the oil market remaining extremely volatile and prices unpredictable, we continue to see its impact first-hand on the residents most at risk.
"Through this funding, we are helping to ease immediate financial pressures by providing grants towards fuel costs, while also offering personalised energy advice to help households better manage their energy use and costs longer term."
And Suzanne Wigmore, CEO at Wiltshire Citizens Advice, added: "At Wiltshire Citizens Advice we know how important it is to provide the right advice and support at the right time.
"We also know that for many people in Wiltshire life continues to be tough and the Crisis and Resilience Fund will help us help people before they slip into crisis."
She said it would make sure those facing crisis have a "real route" to resilience.
Simple trick for designing with plants
by Sally Gregson
HOW often do we visit gardens and are struck by a particularly appealing combination of plants, or colours, or structural forms? And by the time we have taken a blurry photo of them and gone home, we have forgotten just what it was that was so appealing.
However, there is a simple trick to getting the combinations ‘right’.
At Great Dixter in East Sussex the apprentice gardeners are given a free hand to mix and match plants in pots.
Fergus Garrett, the head gardener, trains his students by letting them choose from a range of potted plants and seeing which combinations ‘work’ to their satisfaction.
The starting point is often a few perennials such as small conifers or generous pots of grasses. They form the bones, the structure of the arrangement. Then in go a few brightly coloured annuals that pop with colour.
The remainder of the display tends to comprise ‘filler’ plants that unite the arrangement into a ‘colour scheme’.
It works very well. Perhaps because the students are already so well acquainted with certain plants, or they just respond creatively to the freedom of moving pots about the arrangement to try different combinations.
No doubt they all
‘brainstorm’ the finished arrangement too.
The most successful of these are sometimes planted more permanently in the garden the following year, or more often, are probably just noted down by those students for future reference.
But it’s a trick that’s worthy of imitation. And late spring is an excellent time to start potting up some of those special plants that demand attention.
For instance, Dahlia Magenta Star is a stunning, shocking raspberry-pink dahlia with large, single flowers that reach up to about 1.5m in height at their peak in late summer. It’s a favourite at Gravetye Manor, the Sussex home of the ‘father’ of modern gardening, William Robinson.
It is doubtful that Robinson ever met this particular stunner – it was probably bred after his time – but the current head gardener, Tom Coward, is an ex-student of Dixter’s Fergus Garrett, and certainly they would have been introduced to each other. It obviously made quite an impression on him, as it does to all who meet it.
EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195
Apprentice gardeners are given a free hand to mix and match plants in pots at Great Dixter
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Sudoku 3D puzzle
Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.
Killer Sudoku Pro
Cryptic crossword
Killer Sudoku Pro
Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dashlined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.
Park with everybody getting command to return (6) 4 One that’s hooked section of unread dictionary (6)
Be sorry about prison term initially (6)
Clergyman in charge with a line that’s orthodox (9)
Hang over place where weaver works? (4)
Slate cooking utensil (3)
Submerge complete tip of bow and rudder (9)
It’s not acceptable to back two cricket sides (2-2)
12 Spread varied sides around period
Northern Irish county having deficiency, said, or large amount of rain? (8) 6 US president once taking top off microphone (3)
7 Wild tribe around month in wood (6) 10 Exit scene for exciting being (9)
Logic in advice to a heavy drinker? (9)
Teach rugby and cricket principally in unusual stint (8) 16 Influence gained by young offender on a court (6)
Amuse professional in a suit over time (6)
(4)
said, or large amount of rain? (8)
6 US president once taking top off microphone (3)
7 Wild tribe around month in wood (6)
10 Exit scene for exciting being (9)
13 Logic in advice to a heavy drinker? (9)
14 Teach rugby and cricket principally in unusual stint (8)
16 Influence gained by young offender on a court (6)
17 Amuse professional in a suit over time (6)
20 Novel system man keeps (4)
22 Uppity academic gets sign of approval (3)
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Numberlink
The primary goal is to link all the pairs without the lines crossing or overlapping
Word Chain
Word Chain
Can you climb the word ladder? At each step a new word must be formed by changing one and only one letter, and without rearranging the order of the letters.
Killer Sudoku Pro
Killer Sudoku Pro
Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and boldlined 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.
Domino Puzzle
Domino
Dominoes is a classic game, but in this puzzle version the aim is to divide the grid into a full set of dominoes (with 0 as a blank).
A tick-off chart of dominoes is usually provided alongside the puzzle to help the solver, and although these samples use standard 0-6 dominoes the set can be varied, as can the layout and shape of the grid.
Wordsearch 2
Car Boot Sale
ANTIQUES BABY EQUIPMENT BOARD GAMES CASSETTES CLOTHES COMPUTERS CROCKERY DECORATIONS FURNITURE GADGETS GLASSWARE MAGAZINES RECORDS TOILETRIES TOYS VHS TAPES
Word Square Puzzles
Word Square Puzzles
How many words of three or more letters can you find by tracing out a path from letter to touching letter, without visiting any letter more than once in any given word?
In these puzzles diagonal moves can be or can not be allowed, as you choose - allowing diagonal moves typically means that many more words can be found B U R U S B S N A U L A A E V T E D
Blowfly Strike: what to watch out for
by Nim Panesar Veterinary Surgeon Synergy Farm Health
AFTER what seems like a very long and wet Winter, the summer weather is finally upon us and with it, the risk of blowfly strike or ‘flystrike’.
This is unfortunately a very familiar annual problem for sheep farmers and can have a big impact on health and welfare.
Blowfly strike is caused by larvae of the Common Greenbottle fly (Lucillia sericata), which feed on the tissues and release toxins, leading to pain, illness and can cause death.
A summary of important risk factors for flies landing and laying eggs on fleece, and the signs to watch out for that may indicate a sheep has flystrike, is shown ????:
Treatment for an acute case of flystrike should include: clipping the affected area, disinfection, application of a product that kills maggots (i.e. a
cypermethrin or deltamethrin), topical/injectable antibiotics and pain relief.
Alpacas can also be affected by blowfly strike, and so the same principles of careful vigilance and risk management should be applied.
Please don’t hesitate to contact to your vet or RAMA team for advice on suitable products for the treatment and prevention of blowfly strike.
Speak to your vet during
your annual health review to help you make a prevention strategy ready for next season. Other useful resources that provide more information about the local blowfly risk and help choosing the right product for treatment/prevention are: n NADIS Parasite Forecast blowfly risk alert - https://www. nadis.org.uk/parasite-forecast/ n SCOPS - https://www. scops.org.uk/external-parasites/ blowflies/
Bikers stopped during police op
POLICE stopped almost 50 motorcyclists during a county-wide road safety operation aimed at reducing crashes ahead of the busy summer riding season.
Over two weeks this month, officers carried out 47 motorcycle stops as part of Operation Apex, speaking to riders about safety, road awareness and responsible riding.
While most encounters were positive, a small number of offences were identified and dealt with by officers.
Police said the operation was designed not only to enforce the law but also to engage directly with the motorcycling community at a time when more bikes are returning to the roads.
Roads Policing Unit
Inspector Neil Duffin said officers had welcomed the opportunity to speak with riders and share advice.
“With more motorcyclists taking to Wiltshire’s roads over the coming weeks, we’re asking all road users to play their part in keeping everyone safe,” he said.
Drivers are being reminded to look carefully for motorcycles, particularly at junctions, roundabouts and when turning right – locations that continue to feature in a number of serious collisions involving riders.
Motorcyclists are also being encouraged to brush up on their skills through the national BikeSafe scheme, a police-led initiative that combines observed rides with expert advice and hazard awareness training.
Wiltshire Police said many of
the roadside conversations during the operation were positive and good-humoured with officers and riders even debating whose bike was best.
As temperatures rise and roads become busier, police are urging everyone to remain alert and look out for one another.
A force spokesperson said simple actions from both drivers and riders could help prevent collisions and save lives during the summer months.
n For more on the BikeSafe campaign, visit https://bikesafe. co.uk/wiltshire.
Roads projects recognised at national awards
WILTSHIRE’S roads were in good company after being shortlisted for national honours.
Two major transport projects in the county were shortlisted for prestigious industry awards.
Wiltshire Council and its partners were finalists at the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) Awards, recognising work to make roads safer and tackle disruption caused by extreme weather.
One nomination focussed on the A3102 Safer Roads Scheme – a major 22-mile project aimed at cutting serious crashes on one of Wiltshire’s busiest routes.
The scheme, delivered with AtkinsRéalis, was one of the largest funded through the government’s Safer Roads Fund and is expected to prevent around 45 fatal and serious injuries over the next 20 years.
Rather than simply reacting to collisions, engineers used crash data to target danger hotspots and improve safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
The project has also trialled more sustainable materials - and received a highly commended accolade at the presentation ceremony on June 17.
Meanwhile, a second Wiltshire scheme was
shortlisted for helping roads better withstand severe weather.
Working with M Group, the council introduced a risk-based drainage system designed to stop flooding before it happens – shifting maintenance from emergency call-outs to prevention - and was commended by judges.
Cabinet member for highways, Cllr Martin Smith, said: “We were pleased to see
these two important projects recognised at a national level.
“Both schemes show how working closely with our partners enables us to deliver practical improvements that make a real difference to people across Wiltshire. The A3102 scheme is helping to make journeys safer, while our resilience work is ensuring the network is better prepared for challenging weather.”
Officers stopped almost 50 bikers during the operation
Pictures: Wiltshire Police
2
Crossword
Brain chain (hard)
ban, bans, bur, bus, nab, nabs, rub, sub, suburb, suburban, suburbans, suburbs, urban Word Square (right) ale,
eat, eel, eta, evaluate, evaluated, lea, lee, tee, vale
Painted wardrobe sells for £2,100
CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham achieved some impressive results in its June sale held last weekend.
An early 20th-century compactum wardrobe with exquisitely painted floral decoration sold for £2,100 including premium to a UK internet bidder.
Elsewhere, an early 20th century compactum wardrobe with exquisitely painted floral decoration sold for just under £2,500 to a UK internet bidder.
A late 19th century 18ct gold pocket watch by Nugent Wells & Son, a prominent firm of watchmakers, realised £3,800, including premium, and a highly collectable early 20th century Austrian cold-painted bronze table lamp by Franz Xavier Bergman achieved £1,100, hammer.
Jewellery and coins also performed strongly, with
Maundy money sets, sovereigns and half-sovereigns selling within or above estimate.
Jewellery, gold and silver continue to perform
exceptionally well at auction, making this an especially favourable time to consign. Gold and silver prices have risen dramatically over the past
year creating strong demand for quality pieces.
Unworn necklaces, rings, bracelets and other forgotten treasures at the bottom of a jewellery box could achieve far more than prospective sellers might expect. Free valuations are available at the Gillingham saleroom and in the comfort of your own home.
n For enquiries about consignments for upcoming sales, contact Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms, The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
Friday 10th & Saturday 11th July
