HUGE BOOST FOR PLAYHOUSE FUND
Council backs first phase of multi-million pound refrubishment project as part of cultural investment...
MIDNIGHT TREK
Dig out your torches for late-night hospice fundraiser STORY: PAGE 3
TIP CHANGES
Booking system to be rolled out at council recycling centres STORY: PAGE 7
PROUD POEMS
New volume features wordsmith's thoughts on Salisbury STORY: PAGE 29
PC assault
WILTSHIRE police officer would have been sacked for assaulting a child while on duty if he had not
Last month, Daniel Rusling admitted one count of assault by beating and was given an eight-week custodial sentence suspended for 12 months and unpaid work after an incident at Monkton Park police station, Chippenham, on October 14 last year.
The 13-year-old victim had called 999 asking for help after reporting being threatened. Body Worn Video captured Mr Rusling, who was a response officer at the time, swearing at the child, who was wearing his school uniform, and pushing him aggressively several times.
'You will always be loved'
THE family of George Smith – who passed away after a crash in Wilton earlier this month – have paid tribute to a “bright, witty, incredibly inteeligent” young man.
George, of Bemerton Heath, sadly died after a crash in The Avenue, Wilton, at around 5.45pm on Saturday, July 4.
The 26-year-old was riding his bike southbound on The Avenue when he was involved in a crash with a MAN panel van travelling in the opposite direction, police said.
Emergency services attended but sadly George died as a result of his injuries, a Wiltshire Police spokesperson added.
Paying tribute, George’s family said: “It is with our hearts shattered that our beloved, bright, witty, incredibly intelligent son and
EDITORIAL
brother George sadly lost his life in a collision on his bike.
“We would as a family like to give our heartfelt thanks to all of the paramedics, air ambulance and doctors who tried so hard to save him.
“Also a special thank you to the policeman who rushed us to scene.
01963 400186
"We cannot express our gratitude enough.
“We don’t have any answers yet as to how or why or what caused it and would kindly ask not to have any speculation on social media.
“George – you are so loved and always will be xxxxx. Mum, dad, Millie and Connor.”
07850 529937
George Smith passed away after a crash on July 4
Picture: Wiltshire Police
Registration for hospice's 2026 Midnight Walk are open
WALKERS are being encouraged to dig out their night lights and head torches for a special charity event.
The Salisbury Hospice Charity has announced the return of its popular Midnight Walk fundraiser, set to take place at Five Rivers Leisure Centre from 8.30pm on Saturday, September 19.
“This year, participants can look forward to a dance party under the stars, hosted by DJ Kev and the Radio Odstock Team, before setting off on their journey around Salisbury City Centre,” a spokesperson said.
“The warm up will be led by local Clubbercise instructors and be full of upbeat music, energy, and fun to get everyone ready for the evening ahead.”
They said the Midnight Walk brings together hundreds of people for an evening of remembrance, celebration, with many walking in memory of loved ones in support of Salisbury Hospice.
This year will see a range of interactive experiences that bring people together to create lasting memories with friends, family and colleagues, alongside opportunities for quiet reflection.
Along the route, participants will encounter a series of
Memory Stations, including a Memory Garden at Queen Elizabeth Gardens, featuring a Memory Cinema where photographs and messages dedicated to loved ones can be shared.
The gardens will also provide
interactive experiences along the route also aim to add moments of joy and wonder throughout the evening.
One of the most moving moments of the evening will take place in the grounds of Salisbury Cathedral, where participants will be invited to light an LED candle in memory of their loved ones, creating a quiet, shared moment of reflection beneath the night sky.
a welcome refreshment stop for both the six-mile and 10-mile routes, offering walkers a space to pause for a moment of reflection.
A dedicated Memory Wall near Harnham Water Meadows will give participants another opportunity to honour and celebrate their loved ones, creating a display of names and messages from across the community.
Other new additions for 2026 include a Silent Disco, featuring songs chosen by participants that either hold special memories or are uplifting and feel-good favourites.
Illuminated performers and
Natalie Pester, events and engagement executive at Salisbury Hospice Charity, said: “Midnight Walk is so much more than a fundraising event; it’s a unique opportunity to create new memories with the people beside you, while remembering those who will always remain in your heart.
“This year’s interactive memory stations are just the start of an exciting new chapter for the event. We look forward to welcoming both returning walkers and those joining us for the first time, for an evening filled with reflection, connection, celebration and moments of joy – because that’s what Midnight Walk is all about.”
Midnight Walk raises vital funds for Salisbury Hospice Charity, helping provide “compassionate hospice care and support for patients and their families across our local community”.
The event is sponsored by Bluebird Care Wiltshire South.
Peter Slough and Tim Rowland-Jones, owners of Bluebird Care, said: “At Bluebird Care, we’re privileged to support people and their families every day, so we understand just how important compassionate care is during life’s most challenging moments.
“We’re honoured to sponsor this year’s Midnight Walk and support Salisbury Hospice Charity in the incredible work they do across our community. We hope the event brings people together to remember loved ones, celebrate lives, and raise vital funds so that more local families can continue to receive the care and support they deserve.”
Participants aged 12 and above can take part, walking in memory of loved ones while helping to raise essential funds for hospice care.
n Registration is now open at www.salisburyhospicecharity. org.uk/event/midnight-walk.
Walkers are being urged to sign up for the Midnight Walk fundraiser
Pictures: Spencer Mulholland Photography
Huge boost for Playhouse fundraiser as council makes £1 million pledge
A£22 MILLION fundraising effort to refurbish Salisbury Playhouse is among causes to get a boost from new cultural funding.
Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet has approved a package of measures to support the future of Salisbury’s Cultural Quarter, including investment in the major refurbishment of the theatre, as well as plans to improve the public realm around the city’s cultural venues.
At a meeting on July 15, the Cabinet approved the inclusion of the Salisbury Cultural Quarter on the council’s Infrastructure List, recognising "its importance as cultural, community and public realm infrastructure that supports the vitality, attractiveness and sustainable growth of Salisbury".
Councillors also agreed to allocate £1m of Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to the first phase of Wiltshire Creative’s ‘the transformation of Salisbury Playhouse’ programme.
The authority will also commit underwriting up to £3m to support Wiltshire Creative’s fundraising campaign for the first phase of the project, subject to legal and financial requirements.
It comes after the appeal was awarded £3m from Arts Council England’s Creative Foundations Fund, designed to help unlock additional investment from charitable trusts, philanthropic donors and others.
The first phase of ‘The transformation of Salisbury Playhouse’ programme will address essential infrastructure needs at the Playhouse, including repairs to the building fabric, improvements to accessibility, and upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems, helping secure the long-term future of the venue.
Cabinet also noted ongoing work to develop public realm improvements to Malthouse Lane, using eligible Section 106 funding, to create "a more attractive and better-connected cultural destination linking the
Playhouse, City Hall, Fisherton Street and the wider city centre".
Cllr Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: "Salisbury Playhouse is a hugely important cultural asset, not just for Salisbury but for Wiltshire and the wider region.
"Cabinet’s decision recognises the Cultural Quarter’s vital role in supporting the city’s economy, community life and attractiveness as a place to live, work and visit.
"By supporting the first phase of ‘The transformation of Salisbury Playhouse’ programme, we are helping to unlock substantial external investment while securing the long-term future of an important venue."
Rosa Corbishley, executive director at Wiltshire Creative,
added: "This is a fantastic vote of confidence in Salisbury Playhouse and the positive difference it makes to our region.
"Each year we provide unmissable experiences for audiences, unique opportunities for artists, and nurture emerging talent through our vital youth education work.
"We welcome over 200,000 people into the building each year - this investment will help make the Playhouse fit to welcome many more, for decades to come. Our transformation will facilitate life-changing cultural experiences for all across Wiltshire and beyond, and we look forward to working closely with the council as we bring our exciting plans to life."
The Cultural Quarter, comprising Salisbury Playhouse, City Hall, Malthouse Lane and Priory Square, is identified in a range of adopted planning and regeneration strategies as a key contributor to Salisbury city centre’s growth and vitality.
Independent research cited in the Cabinet report found Salisbury’s cultural sector contributes £52m in annual economic impact, supporting nearly 700 jobs.
Clive takes the chains as new Salisbury Rotary president
THE Rotary Club of Salisbury has a new president.
Clive Barnwell has taken on the role, succeeding Alan Corkill, and was installed from July 1.
A 'handover' ceremony took place at the White Hart Hotel, in the presence of a large number of Salisbury Rotarians and guests, including past mayor and Rotarian Atiqul Hoque; honorary member Dr Beth Robertson and past district governor Rotarian Caroline Millman.
Clive, who joined Rotary in 1992, is a retired chartered secretary and a Past
president of Amesbury Rotary Club.
New president Clive said: "This year, the city of Salisbury will celebrate its 800th anniversary. Salisbury Rotary Club is very much a community club, and has itself over 100 years of service to the community.
"My objective is for the Club and its members to continue to organise and help on a variety of community and youth-related projects and activities, including the 800th anniversary, while having some fun in doing so and enjoying the fellowship of being a Rotarian."
Alan, right, has passed on the role to Clive
How the new Playhouse could look
Picture: Wiltshire Creative
How a training ward in Salisbury is preparing the NHS staff of the future
THE next generation of NHS staff is set to be trained in Salisbury.
Wiltshire College & University Centre (WCUC) is launching a mental health nursing T Level in September at its city campus.
The course will combine teaching in the classroom and the college’s replica ward with 315 hours of placements at Salisbury District Hospital and in the care sector.
The ward, in the college’s Healthcare Zone, was designed in partnership with the NHS to exactly mirror those at Salisbury’s hospital.
It also has an ambulance bay with a real ambulance, a reception area, an observation ward and a domiciliary care bedroom.
The new course is part of the college’s growing partnership with the NHS that has seen the first cohort of T Level students on its adult nursing course go into the sector or on to further learning at university. It has also
launched a successful midwifery course at its Trowbridge campus.
“There’s obviously a massive demand for mental health care in this country and we wanted to try and provide our healthcare students with another career option,” said Garrath Pledger, deputy head of health and life sciences.
“We’ve also had requests from students who are interested in pursuing this as a career so it was an obvious choice for us.”
Students will spend the first year of the two-year course in the Healthcare Zone, learning the core principles and practical skills of nursing, as well as undertaking a placement in the social care sector in a care home.
In the second year, they will be given the choice of doing a mental health nursing, or an adult nursing placement.
“The first year is really where they will learn the basic skills and, through working on our replica ward and on the
placement, they will develop their communication and general people skills to really build their knowledge and confidence for when they do their placements in year two,” said Garrath.
“I think the social care placement is really going to help students going into mental health because looking after people in that care environment will develop the patient skills they will need.”
He said the college is working closely with the NHS to give students as much experience and first-hand knowledge as possible.
“We’re trying to get a lot more involvement from the NHS with workshops in year one,” he said. “We want students doing as many tasks in our ward at the college as possible to help them feel a lot more comfortable when they go on placements.”
The college is in discussion with the NHS, Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS
Trust, care homes, and mental health charities about the nature and locations available for mental health-related placements.
“We’ve already had a few students sign up so we are very excited about the course,” Garrath added.
“For anyone considering a career in mental health nursing this will be an excellent grounding.
“Our students have got two main routes after completing the course, they can carry on to university to develop their skills or they’ve got the opportunity to go into industry, where they can build skills and gain qualifications on the job.
“They will be able to use their knowledge and experience from their placement and apply it in many different areas, in the hospital setting, the social care sector, supporting social workers, working with families or so much more.”
n For more information, visit www.wiltshire.ac.uk.
Rogue gardener jailed after leaving desperate customers' jobs unfinished
AROGUE landscape gardener who left 18 customers across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire waiting for jobs to be completed has been jailed for running a fraudulent business.
At Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday (July 10) James Knight, also known as Jimmy, of Verne Road, Verwood, was sentenced to five years and eight months behind bars after being prosecuted by Dorset Council Trading Standards.
The 34-year-old previously pleading not guilty to all charges, but changed his plea to guilty to all but seven charges on the first day of the trial.
Knight maintained he did not act dishonestly towards the other seven victims but after a two-week hearing, when all seven victims gave evidence, the judge found he had been dishonest from the start.
The court heard Knight advertised as a landscape gardener on social media, visiting potential customers to discuss work they wanted, usually suggesting extra work at a competitive price.
Once the work was agreed, he would take a large deposit for materials and then only deliver a small quantity of materials or do only a small amount of work.
In some cases, he just disappeared without doing any work at all.
One customer who wanted his lawn re-turfing was left with only soil in his front garden, while another who wanted a new drive was left with what was described as a ‘bomb site’ at the front of her house.
Any work that was done was sub-standard, the court was told, with the total value of the fraud estimated to be around £42,000.
On many occasions, Knight would claim he had underquoted and ask for additional payments. Once it became clear to him a customer was not prepared to pay any more money, he would stop work and make excuses as to why he couldn’t continue, including deaths in the family, vehicles breaking down or being stolen, illness, staff problems, and last-minute child-minding responsibilities.
On more than two occasions, Knight claimed his grandfather died.
The court later heard Knight had previously been convicted of 77 charges of fraud between 2012 and 2020. Most recently, he was sentenced to 32 months imprisonment.
Sentencing, Judge Mousley said: “You have an appalling criminal record. You claim that
Knight has been jailed for five years and eight months
you that you feel remorse, but the only remorse you feel is that you have been caught and brought before the court.
“You exploited the trust of hard-working people and had no hesitation in extracting as much money from them as possible.”
In recognition of his actions, the Judge also granted an eight-year Criminal Behaviour Order, preventing Knight from approaching or entering any address in the UK for the
purpose of offering his own or others’ services for work.
It also further prevents him from advertising for work, online or elsewhere, or instructing others to do any of the above on his behalf. A breach of the order will constitute a criminal offence.
Cllr Matt Bell, Dorset Council cabinet member for public health, prevention and communities, said: “This case shows the real impact rogue traders can have on local people – leaving them out of pocket and with work that’s nowhere near complete.
"Our Trading Standards team works hard to protect residents and take action where people try to take advantage. This outcome sends a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated.
“I want to thank everyone who came forward to help bring this case to court. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and report it – that information helps us protect others in our communities.”
When selecting a trader to do work, Trading Standards advises people to consider the Buy With Confidence approved trader scheme.
Details are also available by calling the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
Quad bikes seized in Salisbury street set to be crushed
QUAD bikes being ridden illegally in a Salisbury street were seized by police.
Over the weekend of July 18 and 19, officers responded to reports of three young people riding quad bikes in the Southampton Road area.
They soon located two young males riding quad bikes, while a third rider made off.
"Both quad bikes (pictured) that were recovered were seized under Section 165 of the Road
Traffic Act 1988, which gives police powers to require drivers to produce the appropriate licence, insurance and other relevant documents," a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said.
"Enquiries established that neither quad bike was road legal and both are now due to be crushed."
People can contact their Neighbourhood Policing Team via SalisburyAreaNPT@ wiltshire.police.uk.
Booking system rolling out for tips
PEOPLE visiting six recycling centres in Wiltshire – including Salisbury –will be required to book their slot as a new pilot scheme is rolled out in the autumn.
Wiltshire Council is introducing a booking system at six of its Household Recycling Centres (HRCs).
The authority said the system aims to “help reduce queuing, improve the customer experience, and minimise disruption for nearby communities and businesses”.
Residents will be able to make bookings from September 8, with visits by appointment only beginning on September 14 at HRCs in Devizes, Lower Compton, Melksham, Purton, Salisbury, and Stanton St Quintin.
The pilot will allow initially residents to book a 30-minute slot up to a week in advance, with some same-day
appointments available.
“The length of slots will be regularly reviewed to ensure we have maximum capacity available at sites,” a council spokesperson said.
“The new system is designed to make visits more convenient by helping to manage demand and reduce waiting times, particularly during busy periods.
“The introduction of the booking system will not affect existing opening hours, permit requirements, or accepted waste types.”
People unable to access or use the online service can contact Wiltshire Council’s Rubbish and Recycling line for assistance in making a booking.
Cllr Paul Sample JP, cabinet member for environment, climate and waste, said: “We want our Household Recycling Centres to provide the best possible experience for residents. By managing demand
more effectively, we expect to reduce queues, make visits more convenient and lessen the impact on surrounding communities and local businesses.
“The pilot is about improving how the service operates, but the service itself is not changing. Residents will still be able to dispose of the same types of waste; opening hours
will remain the same and any existing permit requirements will continue to apply.
"We’ll be promoting the new system over the coming months and encourage residents to find out more and plan ahead before the pilot begins in September.”
n For more information about the pilot booking system, visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/ bookhrc.
Salisbury is among six HRCs that will pilot the booking system
Picture: Google
Group planning 800th birthday party!
AGROUP has been formed to plan celebrations to mark the 800th anniversary of Salisbury’s City Charter.
A series of community-led celebrations are planned, including events proposed by individuals, community groups, and independent organisations.
To help organise the celebrations, a small Project Board has been created, made up of key city partners.
Organisers said the group is “working collaboratively to ensure the programme runs smoothly and that as many community-led initiatives as possible are included”.
Meanwhile, people are being encouraged to submit event ideas, including workshops and activities.
Anyone wishing to host an event or participate in the celebrations can submit their
website or email project lead Susi Mason via experiencepillar@gmail.com.
“These celebrations are all about our community,” Suzi said. “We want everyone to have the opportunity to be
event, volunteering to help or by being a part of the audience.
“It will be an opportunity to look back on Salisbury’s 800 years, rejoice in the creativity of our city and to look forward to its future.
“We are thrilled by the enthusiasm and collaboration
we’ve seen so far, and we urge groups and individuals to continue submitting their ideas so we can build a truly unforgettable programme.”
More details of events, participating venues, and celebration dates will be announced soon.
The group is coordinating events to mark the 800th anniversary of Salisbury's City Charter
IF you go down to Salisbury today... You can try to find 100 bears who have awoken from hibernation and gone into hiding across the city!
The bears are hiding in shop windows across the city as part of the Salisbury Bear Hunt, organised by Julia's House Children's Hospice.
Visitors have until Saturday, September 5, to try to find them all by taking part in the free activity, which helps raise awareness and support for Julia's House.
Each of the bears has been given a special name by children and siblings supported by the hospice charity, alongside local school children who took part in the charity's Big Teddy Takeover during Children's Hospice Week last month.
Free entry forms are available from Salisbury Information Centre, the Julia's House charity shop, The
Rocketship Bookshop and Salisbury Library.
Completed forms can be posted into the Bear Post Box at Salisbury Information Centre.
Every form returned –whether completed or not – will be entered into the charity's prize draw, with prizes generously donated by county businesses.
Julia's House fundraising manager, Alice Chalmers, said: "We've been delighted by the excitement surrounding this year's Salisbury Bear Hunt. It's a fantastic way for families to explore the city together, while supporting local children and families who rely on the specialist care provided by Julia's House.
"We'd love to see lots of bear-spotters taking part over the summer holidays and sharing their favourite bear discoveries with us along the way."
She added: "Our fantastic Bear Delivery volunteers, from our sponsors Wessex Fleet and Xcite Car Leasing, have been out and about dropping the bears to local shops. And the Bear Post Box has been delivered to Salisbury Information Centre, ready for everyone to return their forms."
n Find out more at www. juliashouse.org/ salisburybearhunt.
Completed forms can be dropped in the bix at Salisbury Information Centre
Thieves target farm building
ELECTRONIC tracking equipment was stolen from machinery during a raid on a farm building.
Wiltshire Police officers are investigating after a theft some time between 4am and 6am on July 19 in the Stoford area. A spokesperson said machinery taken included GPS trackers from tractors and a combine harvester.
"Offenders entered a farm building and stole various machinery including computer systems and have caused damage to various vehicles," they said.
"Police patrols will be increased in the area to help deter further incidents and we are urging members of our community to report any suspicious activity."
PC Dawson went on: "Operation Walrus is a nationwide police initiative coordinated by the National Rural Crime Unit designed to
tackle organised criminal gangs targeting expensive agricultural GPS kits, displays and receivers from tractors and combine harvesters.
"We are urging those in our rural communities to ensure GPS systems are removed from tractors and secured where possible.
"If you see of any of these items being advertised online, for cheaper than expected or approached about purchasing such items please also make us aware."
Crime prevention advice from the Rural Crime Team includes:
n Activate PIN security on GPS kit with your own unique number
n Mark your GPS – either by marking your postcode on it or by using a forensic property marking kit to make the item identifiable to you
n Store tractors with GPS
fitted securely
n Record serial numbers and photograph your kit to increase chances of reuniting you with it in the event it is stolen
n Lock all gates at night to deter opportunists
n Report any sightings of suspicious activity around farmland to police
n Use Forensic Marking Kits to help identify your devices
n Remove GPS devices from the top of Tractors after use.
"Our enquiries in relation to this incident are ongoing and we’d continue to urge the farming community to report suspicious activity immediately," PC Dawson added.
n Anyone with information about the incident on July 19 should contact police via 71488@wiltshire.police.uk, or 0702@wiltshire.police.uk, quoting reference 54260087032.
Candle float date confirmed
THE annual Salisbury Hiroshima and Nagasaki Candle Float will take place on August 6.
Salisbury Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) has confirmed the event will take place at 8.45pm on the River Avon between the Fisherton Street Bridge and Crane Street.
It sees candles floated down the river in memory of the victims of the nuclear bombs dropped by the US in 1945, as well as "all those harmed by nuclear development and testing".
Birds of prey swoop on care home!
Residents got up close and personal with some birds and beasties
RESIDENTS at a Salisbury care home have been crowing about a recent visit from birds of prey!
Wilton Place Care Home were treated to an animal experience during a visit by Emily, from Two Bird
Experiences.
She brought along not only birds of prey but also giant stick insects.
Residents met and learned about a falcon, speckled owl and barn owl, and got the chance to hold the stick insects.
Antoinette, manager at Wilton Place, said: “Our residents and their families thoroughly enjoyed this
experience. Emily and the birds were incredible and brought a lot of joy to everyone who attended.”
• Roof Repairs
• Flat Roofs
• Fascias, Soffits & Guttering
• Chimney & Leadworks
• Roof Cleaning & Moss Removal
• Spray Foam Removal & Insulation
Thrills and spills - and a splashing good time - for Scouts at competition
IT was thrills and spills all round during the annual Salisbury & South Wilts District Scout Raft Races.
The event, on July 5, was held on the Nadder, with the permission of Salisbury Canoe Club at a site off Newton Road.
Teams of Scouts competed in timed runs over the 100-metre course, which this year included two slalom gates, in two age groups; School years 6 and 7 and Years 8 and 9.
The fastest two teams in each age group then raced each other in the finals, with a final of a straight race down the river for the two finalists to decide the winner.
“The Scouts spent several weeks designing and building rafts and practicing their paddling and teamwork,” a spokesperson said.
"The rafts had to be built by the Scouts and had to include evidence of rope lashings to hold them together.”
A total of 17 teams from Bourne Valley, 23rd Salisbury, 4th Salisbury (Harnham), 1st Amesbury, 10th Salisbury and 3rd Salisbury (Sea Scouts) Scout Troops took to the starting line throughout the day.
the 23rd taking an early lead and managing to stay afloat, cruised over the finishing line.
In the Year 8 & 9 category
The fastest times in the Year 6 & 7 category were: 23rd Salisbury Team A with 1 minute 57 seconds and second were Bourne Valley with 1 minute 55 seconds.
The two teams contested the final in a head to head race with
the qualifiers for the final were Bourne Valley Team 2 with 1 minute 51 seconds and 4th Salisbury (Harnham) Team A with 1 minute 50 seconds.
In the head to head race it was very tightly contested over the first section of the course but Bourne Valley gained the
middle of the river and pulled away over the length of the course, powering over the finish line.
The fastest time of the day down the course was 1 minutes 50 seconds by the 4th Salisbury (Harnham) A Year 8 and 9 team.
Mark Warner, PR and media team lead, said: “The raft races are always keenly contested and it’s great to see the Scouts having a fantastic time on the water and all of the different raft designs from each Scout Troop.
“Congratulations to this year’s worthy winners – Bourne Valley and the 23rd Salisbury.”
At the end of the racing, the event also included a Donkey Derby Fun Race with all competitors on the water.
“Many thanks go to Salisbury Canoe Club for hosting the races,” Mark added.
Youngsters enjoying tackling the waterways on the day and below, some of the winning teams
Pictures: Mark Warner
Village cider pub set to take on the country's best after winning top award
A VILLAGE inn near Salisbury will represent southern England at a national awards later this year.
The 150-year-old Cuckoo Inn, at Hamptworth on the edge of the New Forest, has been chosen as the best cider pub across the region by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Now, the venue will go forward to the national championships to be decided later this year.
Greek-born landlord Nik Amplianitis, who admits he knew very little about cider when he took over the pub four years ago, said he is “over the moon” at becoming CAMRA’s South Central Region Cider Pub of the Year.
He was presented with his regional winner’s certificate and Wiltshire county certificates for two years running by Norman
Clinnick, regional director of CAMRA, and Jane Foster, cider champion of the Salisbury & South Wiltshire branch.
CAMRA’s South Central Region covers all things beer and cider across the four mainland counties of Wiltshire, Berkshire, Hampshire, and Dorset, plus the Isle of Wight and the Channel Islands.
Since taking over in 2022, when The Cuckoo stocked only four ciders, Nik has turned it into a destination pub for cider-lovers from all over the United Kingdom and Ireland.
"I have one couple who come all the way down from Scotland, others from Wales and Ireland," he said.
"We have established quite a reputation and winning this regional CAMRA trophy is a huge help for us.
"I am from Greece and we don’t really do cider there,"
Nik, a cider lover, went on.
"I initially said that we are going to have 14 ciders and everybody said I was mad.
"Now we have increased the number of still ciders from 25 to 45 and we also have zero alcohol ciders. What I want to do is embrace the whole cider world covering all types."
He said receiving the CAMRA award was recognition of the fact the pub - and Nik himself - "take cider very, very seriously".
"I am constantly looking for ciders and cidermakers that I have not come across before to provide our customers with new choices," he said.
Jane added: "I became the cider champion of the Salisbury & South Wiltshire branch of CAMRA in 2022 and started visiting our local pubs that served cider.
"The Cuckoo really stood out
above the rest, serving a wide range of real ciders and perry. It won our branch Cider Pub of the Year award in 2023 and has repeated this three times since then as well as winning the county trophy.
"Nik truly deserves this recognition. His success is the result of hard work, dedication and passion for cider. He works hard to make sure that his ciders are served in the best possible condition.
"The Cuckoo has now been put forward for the national competition giving it the chance to be chosen as the best cider pub in the entire country."
The Cuckoo is owned by the Hamptworth Estate and Nik, who has lived in the UK for 13 years, was invited by the estate’s owner to take over the pub with wife Sofia, as it was lying empty and in need of renovation.
Cuckoo Inn landlord Nik Amplianitis, centre, receives the award from CAMRA Salisbury & South Wiltshire branch regional director Norman Clinnick, and cider champion Jane Foster
Construction starts on new military facilities
CONSTRUCTION has started on new and improved facilities for military personnel in Tidworth and Warminster.
The two major infrastructure projects represent an investment of around £13 million at Assaye Barracks, Tidworth, and £37m at Battlesbury Barracks, Warminster, under the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio.
The schemes aim to enhance operational efficiency on Salisbury Plain and will benefit three units: 1 Medical Regiment (1MED), who are already based at Assaye Barracks, 2nd Battalion The Royal Yorkshire Regiment (2RYORKS), who
have relocated from Chester to Warminster, and The Royal Lancers, who will relocate to Tidworth from Catterick from 2027.
Following the demolition of legacy buildings at Assaye Barracks, construction is now underway on a new Regimental Headquarters for 1 MED.
The move of 1MED into the new HQ will then free up existing office and working space for The Royal Lancers, who will also receive new storage facilities that have been completed ahead of their arrival.
At Battlesbury Barracks, work is well underway to modernise facilities for 2RYORKS. Main construction
is scheduled to begin this summer and will deliver a new Officers' Mess, modern Quartermaster facilities and a gym extension. Refurbishment of the Regimental Headquarters has already been completed.
Both projects are expected to complete by early 2028.
Brigadier Grant Kerr, head of army infrastructure plans, said: "The start of major construction at Tidworth and Warminster marks another important step forward in delivering a modernised Army estate.
"Investment in high-quality infrastructure is enhancing the day-to-day experience of our people, while directly supporting operational capability and making best use of the Defence footprint."
Barry Ray, DIO major programmes and projects team programme manager, said: "I am very pleased that we are now beginning construction with Aspire Defence on the Quartermaster’s Stores, the paired Officers’ Mess and gym
extension for the Royal Yorkshire Regiment at Battlesbury Barracks, and the new-build Regimental HQ for 1 Medical Regiment at Assaye Barracks.
"These assets will enhance the experience of service personnel on these sites as part of a £50M investment under the Defence Estate Optimisation Army Programme."
And Allan Thomson, chief executive officer at Aspire Defence Ltd, added: "Breaking ground at Tidworth and Warminster marks another important milestone in enhancing the Project Allenby/ Connaught (PAC) Estate.
"These projects will deliver high-quality facilities that directly support the rebasing of units and improve the day-today experience of Army personnel.
"We remain committed to delivering infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of the Army, both now and in the future."
The projects aim to improve facilities and operational efficiency on Salisbury Plain
Bubbles, birds, breathtaking views
Sunday sunrise at 5.30am, by Paula Simpson
A busy bumblebee on a beautiful sunflower, by Sophie Cox
A classic view, by John Christopher
A stunning kingfisher in Salisbury, by Tracey Crowley
Candy floss cathedral, by Scott Blackmore
Bubbles in the sky, by Samantha Watts
A walk back into Salisbury, by Gale Louw
Should Salisbury introduce a tourist tax?
HAVING recently returned from a road trip through France and Italy, I was struck by how common tourist taxes are. Whether staying in hotels, guest houses or campsites, visitors are often asked to make a small contribution towards the upkeep of the places they enjoy. That raises an interesting question: should Salisbury introduce a similar tourist tax?
Salisbury is one of England’s most historic and attractive cities, attracting visitors from across the UK and overseas. Its magnificent cathedral, medieval streets and landmarks such as the Poultry Cross are central to the city’s appeal. Tourism plays a major role in the local economy, but maintaining these historic assets comes at a cost. The question is whether visitors should contribute more directly towards preserving them.
There is a strong argument in favour of a modest tourist levy. Historic cities face ongoing expenses in maintaining public
Jeremy Nettle is a Conservative Salisbury City Councillor for Fisherton and Bemerton Village
spaces, infrastructure and heritage buildings. Features such as the Poultry Cross require regular conservation to ensure they remain protected for future generations. While tourism generates significant economic activity, much of the cost of preserving the city falls on local taxpayers.
A small charge on overnight accommodation could create a dedicated fund for heritage conservation and city improvements. Even a fee of a few pounds per night would be unlikely to deter most visitors, particularly those already spending money on
accommodation, restaurants and attractions. Similar schemes operate successfully across Europe, where revenues are used to support cultural sites, public facilities and visitor services.
Supporters argue that such a tax is fair. Residents already contribute through council tax and other local charges, while visitors enjoy the benefits of well-maintained public spaces without directly sharing the cost. A tourism levy could help distribute that responsibility more evenly and provide a sustainable source of funding for Salisbury’s historic environment. However, concerns remain. Businesses may fear that additional charges could make Salisbury less competitive than nearby destinations. The
hospitality sector has faced considerable challenges in recent years, and some operators worry that even small increases in cost could influence visitor decisions. Any scheme would therefore need to be carefully designed, modest in scale and easy to administer. How any revenue is spent would be crucial. If funds were clearly ring-fenced for projects such as conserving the Poultry Cross, maintaining historic streets, improving public facilities and supporting city-centre cleanliness, support would likely be stronger among residents and businesses. Transparency and accountability would be essential.
So on balance, should Salisbury seriously consider introducing a modest tourist tax? If implemented carefully, it could provide valuable funding to protect the city’s unique heritage, while ensuring visitors make a small contribution towards preserving the attractions they come to enjoy.
'Injunction clearly aimed at the homeless'
AS A new Labour leader takes the reigns and settles in to Number 10, I am prompted to speak on what the others are doing locally here in Salisbury.
The Liberal Democrats' Focus Newsletter came through the letterbox today, with the headline 'Wiltshire Council secure court injunction to tackle car park misuse'.
Great, I thought, about time someone done something about the 'boy racers' screeching around the car parks late into the evening, showing off to their mates and wearing their tires out.
But no, it was not about the anti-social behaviour, which it claims to curb by this injunction.
The injunction provides that people must not;
King Arthur Pendragon is a former and proposed Independent Parliamentary candidate for Salisbury
Remain in the car park other than for its intended purpose (Parking vehicles).
Reside, sleep or stay overnight, (including in tents or in the open).
Set up tents or any other form of encampment. Leave personnel belongings in the car park other than in a parked vehicle.
Any person occupying the
car park must leave immediately and remove all belongings when requested.
Lib Dem Councillor Paul Sample justifies the injunction by telling us: "For years local residents have complained about anti-social behaviour in car parks."
Well, we know where the Lib Dems stand on this issue, as they seek and apparently are granted an injunction that is clearly and undeniably aimed solely at the homeless, whom they presumably feel are more of a problem, then the boy racers, and or any of the other hangers on who are drawn to
their car park version of Grease Lightning.
Not so much aimed at anti social behaviour, I believe, as sanitizing and keeping 'the great unwashed' as they see itpeople who have in point of fact often, simply fallen on hard times - out of sight and therefore out of mind.
Then, as if it's their own version of carbon credit, they have the cheek to advertise a help people sleeping rough helpline right beneath the news they secured the injunction.
As for the rest of our illustrious politicians here in Salisbury, same old, same old. Bring on the next general election, and you all know the general I suggest you have as your champion in Westminster, don't you?
Until next time...
How to summer prune apple trees
by Saly Gregson
AFTER such a glorious, but exceptionally hot, summer so far, the apple trees are almost ready to be summer pruned. Trees that are highly manipulated – cordons, espaliers and those shaped into fans and pyramids – benefit especially from summer pruning.
In an ordinary season this is usually left until mid-August, but this hot year in particular slightly early pruning will allow the wounds to heal properly and the tree to re-grow, albeit slowly, throughout the course of the remainder of the summer.
Unlike traditional winter pruning, summer pruning does not initiate the growth of lots of thin, green shoots, it allows air to circulate through the tree and lets the sun ripen the young shoots. It’s an essential job that can be done so well on warm evenings, with the aid of a large straw hat and pairs of sharp loppers and secateurs. The tree has the remainder of the summer to heal the wounds naturally. And in a hot summer, such as this one, it reduces the amount of green leafy growth
vulnerable to the drying effect of high temperatures and wind. Start by cutting back any vigorous shoots that are growing into the centre of the crown. This will keep the air circulating in the centre of the tree and help to ripen the fruiting shoots for next year. Avoid cutting back short shoots less than 20cm long. They may well be in the course of forming new fruiting spurs for next year.
Remove the long, leafy new shoots that are growing from the
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Apple trees can be pruned slightly earlier than normal because of the hot summer
existing side shoots to just one, or at most, two leaves above the existing side-shoot. This will encourage the formation of more fruiting spurs for next year.
If no heavy rain is forecast, ensure that the whole tree is very well watered with several
cans, and if you have any damp garden compost, put it around the base of the tree without touching the bark. It should give it a short-term reservoir during those sunny spells.
And finally give the tree a long, liquid feed high in potash to encourage lots of fruit.
Arrow words
Crossword
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Cryptic crossword
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
Down
2 Supple man under bed in Paris (5)
(6)
3 By the sound of it, send request for payment to monkey? It’s firmly fixed (5-2)
Obtain hint regarding new fit dog running loose (3,4,2) 11 Capture element in tennis? (3) 12 Discuss free entertainment (5) 13 Working journalist with a variable character at some indefinite time (3,3)
5 Amuse oneself taking top off weapon (5)
6 Begin roughly penning a line in Asian language (7)
7 Name location for hearing (4)
8 Semiprecious stone in a narrow opening
(7,4)
Killer Sudoku Pro
A group supported by second joint to leave vessel (7,4) 18 Sport restricted on island requires skimpy garment (6)
Sport restricted on island requires skimpy garment (6)
9 Old reasoning contained in dream concerning set of beliefs? (11)
15 Equipment kept among poor English group soldiers (7)
16 Supply fully if stay’s gone wrong (7)
20 In part, bestow elegant requirement in bathroom? (5) 23 Eggs round Virginia (3) 24 Young female in charge in California of fine pedigree (9)
Pair of extras given farewell (3-3)
20 In part, bestow elegant requirement in bathroom? (5) 23 Eggs round Virginia (3) 24 Young female in charge in California of fine pedigree (9)
17 Heads off some louche youths loosely wanting substance in a cunning fashion
Pair of extras given farewell (3-3)
19 Husband in wild city affected with desire? 21 West Indies cricket club taken with a form witchcraft (5)
Accept, we’re told, service getting held back to a very great degree (2,3)
Accept, we’re told, service getting held back to a very great degree (2,3)
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.
A group supported by second joint to leave vessel (7,4)
18 Sport restricted on island requires skimpy garment (6)
20 In part, bestow elegant requirement in bathroom? (5)
23 Eggs round Virginia (3)
24 Young female in charge in California of fine pedigree (9)
25 Pair of extras given farewell (3-3) 26 Accept, we’re told, service getting held back to a very great degree (2,3)
Search thoroughly company initially marketing book (4)
Supple man under bed in Paris (5) 3 By the sound of it, send request for payment to monkey? It’s firmly fixed (5-2)
5 Amuse oneself taking top off weapon (5)
6 Begin roughly penning a line in Asian language (7)
7 Name location for hearing (4)
8 Semiprecious stone in a narrow opening (5)
9 Old reasoning contained in dream concerning set of beliefs? (11)
15 Equipment kept among poor English group of soldiers (7)
16 Supply fully if stay’s gone wrong (7)
17 Heads off some louche youths loosely wanting substance in a cunning fashion (5)
19 Husband in wild city affected with desire? (5)
21 West Indies cricket club taken with a form of witchcraft (5)
22 Search thoroughly company initially marketing book (4)
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
Do It Yourself
CONSTRUCTION CUTTING DECORATION DRILLING FIXING
FURNITURE REPAIR INSTALLATION NEW CARPET
NEW KITCHEN PAINTING PLASTERING SANDING SHELVING STRAIGHTENING WALLPAPERING WIRING
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 U C R D E E O R P N U S S G H M I
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Column: Sustainable parasite control
IT'S the time of year when there is likely to be a bottle of wormer rattling around in the farm truck and used for treating youngstock.
In my experience, readily available pour-on treatments are liberally applied, and occasionally the vet gets a dose during TB testing!
The avermectin class (including ivermectin) in particular is coming under scrutiny for the negative effects it may have on soil organisms after passing through the animals that have been treated.
Some resistance to these treatments has been reported in cattle gutworms; a threat that is already widespread in the sheep industry.
Effective and sustainable parasite control comes from understanding the interaction of the parasite with the animals and environment. Parasites have evolved to live in (or on) the
by Tom Cook Veterinary Surgeon Synergy Farm Health
host, e.g. cow or sheep, without killing it. Have your parasite control strategies changed with changing farm management practices and climate?
Uncontrolled parasite burdens can cause production losses in growing and adult livestock.
Below are some principles we can follow to get the most from our treatments:
n Right Product – Use a product that treats the targeted parasite. Is a combination product really necessary or needed? Long acting treatments may delay the animal developing immunity against the worm. Don’t forget to consider withdrawal periods too.
n Right Animal – Different
classes of animals will have different risk of disease and levels of immunity. Do you know the treatment/ grazing history of the animals? Are they homebred or bought in? Adults generally have good immunity to gut worms and lungworm through prolonged low dose exposure at grazing. Beware animals that have been bought in, either without ever being grazed or from farms with no lungworm, onto a farm with lungworm. Does the whole group need treating or will targeted individual treatments achieve what is needed?
n Right Time – When are we dosing and for what reason? Having a plan as a guideline for the grazing season can help to rationalise this.
n Right Dose – Read the product label, calibrate dosing equipment and weigh the animals to ensure correct dose given.
n Right Way – Make sure we are administering the product in the right way according to the data sheet.
As farm and pasture management vary, so can the parasite risk to livestock. For instance if first season animals graze the same fields each year there may be a build-up of parasites on this land. Reseeds or post-silage aftermath is lower risk. With an increase in housing under some systems, cattle may not get enough exposure to develop good immunity as youngsters. We have several tests we can perform to assess parasite burden as part of the herd or flock strategy. Don’t forget the lungworm vaccine ‘Huskvac’ for cattle, available in the spring. Lungworm can be unpredictable and cause severe disease in certain circumstances.
The Synergy vets and dispensary team are always happy to help. For more information, visit www. cattleparasites.org.uk for cattle and www.scops.org.uk for sheep.
Lungworm larvae
New poetry volume full of Salisbury verse
SALISBURY's own unofficial poet laureate has published a collection of his consierations of the city.
Edwin 'Colwell' Hopper, known for his thoughtful and perceptive poetry about Salisbury, is behind the Salisbury Sapphires, a volume of work purely focusing on the city.
And the poet said the response to works
about Salisbury prompted to focused volume.
"When I've read at events like People in the Park, New SaRhyme and Poetika, it's the Salisbury poems that have had the best response," Edwin said.
"So I thought it was high time I put the best together in one book, especially as the 800th anniversary celebrations of Salisbury
will be upon us in just a few months."
To mark the release, a launch party is planned at the Royal George, in Bedwin Street, from 7pm on July 30, with all welcome.
"The evening will be a feast of Salisbury and poetry, and all are invited, just turn up - and yes, there will be wine and nibbles," a spokesperson said.
Extra £20 million for ferry delays
FUNDING of £20 million has been promised by the UK Government in a bid to cut waiting times at the port of Dover as the school holidays continue.
The money has been issued to local authorities to open more passport booths at the crossing point - as millions look set to head to the continent this summer.
Kent County Council, which will receive the money, said it would help cut queues and waiting times at the port, pictured right, by up to 80% due to an increase in capacity when processing vehicles and moves to ease congestion.
Doug Bannister, CEO at the Port of Dover, said he was "really grateful for all the support".
Following the announcement, the Transport Secretary met with the European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism about supporting UK residents through the new security checks for tourists.
They discussed the controversial EU Entry/Exit System (EES), with the
secretary raising concerns over travellers looking to get away into Europe over the summer months.
Part of the new funding will be used to help tackle delays as a result of the system, which applies to non-EU nationals travelling into and out of the Schengen Area.
Under the scheme, travellers are required to register their details the first time they cross a
Schengen border by scanning their passport and providing biometric information, including a facial photograph and fingerprint scans.
While most EES checks will be carried out on arrival in an EU member state, passengers departing from the UK via the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel or Eurostar complete the procedures before they travel.
But the process has led to long delays at airports and ports - with the new funding aimed at helping those crossing the English Channel during the summer holidays.
Lexi, the poetry-loving manager of the Royal George, which will host the launch party for the new volume
Killer sudoku
Crossword
Brain chain (hard)
creed, cud, deep, deer, ode, ore, peer, per, pro, prod, produce, red, redo, reed, reproduce, rod, rode
Word Square (right) gun, guns, gunsmith, gunsmiths, gush, might, smith, smiths, snug, sun, suns
Expert guidance on offer for sellers
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Clarke’s combines traditional auction expertise with modern marketing to achieve outstanding results.
The company has earned a reputation for professional advice and a friendly, approachable service.
Every item is carefully researched, professionally photographed and promoted to a worldwide audience through the UK’s leading online bidding platforms, the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com
This global reach attracts
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Whether you are selling a single item, downsizing, managing a probate estate or clearing an entire property, Clarke’s Auctions offers expert guidance every step of the way.
Free valuations are available at its Gillingham saleroom or,
for larger pieces and collections, in your own home.
The company also provides probate and insurance valuations, collection and delivery services, and full or part house clearances.
At Clarke’s Auctions, every item has a story and every client matters. It is this commitment to exceptional service, expert knowledge and achieving the best possible results that makes
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