A Local Life Warminster No1 October 2014 by A Local Life

Warminster & Borders

No1 October 2014

Bishopstrow, Chapmanslade, Codford, Corsley, Deverills, Dilton Marsh, East Knoyle, Heytesbury, Horningsham, Maiden Bradley, Mere, Shrewton, Stourton, Sutton Veny, Tisbury & Upton Scudamore & surrounding area.

a local life Your local community magazine

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warminster www.alocallife.co.uk

e e r F

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welcome

I am delighted to introduce you to the first edition of A Local Life: Warminster. We are a bi-monthly free magazine dedicated to Warminster and the surrounding areas, joining sister magazines in Bradford on Avon and Malmesbury. Now based in the Wylye Valley, but a former New Close School and Kingdown Community School pupil, I am thrilled to be editing a magazine that showcases what an amazing place Warminster is to live and work in. October is jam-packed with interesting articles. In our Education Section, I meet Mark Mortimer, the headmaster of Warminster School – a man on a mission with a clear sense of direction. I also meet Sara Edwards, the headmistress of Kingdown, a woman with great vision and a wonderful female role model for the town.

Then there’s my old friend, Terry Hillier, who I’ve known since school days. He is now the driving force behind one of the South West’s fastest growing businesses as the Managing Director of his company RACS Group, which is now turning over in excess of £50 million. October sees the start of the Warminster Festival, founded in 1989 to promote appreciation of the arts, sports and leisure activities in Warminster and the surrounding areas. Keep an eye out for the vast range of events that will be on throughout the town in the next two months. And finally, the Warminster Carnival comes to town on 25th October – a great night out for all the family. Most importantly, this magazine is committed to local news and events so please contact us at warminster@alocallife.co.uk. We would love to hear from you. I hope you enjoy this inaugural edition.

Clare Macnaughton all

a local life Wiltshire Music Centre 8

No1 October 2014

Angela Rippon 28

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CONTENTS

Inside... What’s On..........................................................................6 Community News...........................................................8 Education........................................................................11 Business Feature...........................................................14 House & Home..............................................................16 Travel Feature................................................................20 Food & Drink..................................................................22 Jewellery Feature..........................................................26 Up Close – Angela Rippon.........................................28 Healthcare.......................................................................29 Shopping.........................................................................30 Lifestyle...........................................................................31 Health & Leisure...........................................................32 Directory..........................................................................33 Travel................................................................................34 Useful Contacts.............................................................36 Slice of Life.....................................................................37 Puzzles.............................................................................38

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Sales: publish@alocallife.co.uk or call 01985 805001 Contribute: warminster@alocallife.co.uk Publisher: André Balkham Jones Contributors: C&A, Jo Fairburn, Erica Morgan, Joe Venables, Clare Macnaughton, Fiona Scott. Design: A Local Life Printed on paper sourced from responsible sources. Small Print: The publisher will not be held liable for any loss or damage caused by errors, omissions or failure of an advert to run or any other cause. A Local Life and Brand2M Ltd. does not endorse any advertising material within the publication or on the website. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior permission of the publisher.

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No1 October 2014

WHAT’S ON

What’s on

OCTOBER 2014

Saturday 4th October

Wednesday 29th October

Autumn Emporium First-View Art Gallery & The Studio, Spread Eagle Courtyard, Stourton, Wiltshire. 11am-5pm. Local designers and makers featuring seasonal textiles. Running until Sunday 26th October 2014. www.first-view.co.uk

“The West Somerset Mineral Railway” The New BRSA Club, off Fisherton Street, Salisbury. 7pm for 7.30pm start. A talk and slide show. For further details email geoff.ridler@talktalk.net

Saturday 11th October Murder Mystery Dinner Leigh Park Community Centre, Leigh Park Way, Westbury, BA13 3FN 7.30-11.30pm. Murder mystery plot with 2 course dinner. Can you solve the mystery? Licensed Bar. £20 per ticket. 01373 825774

Sunday 12th October Vintage Bus Running Day Warminster Central Car Park, 9am-6pm. Bus rides available 10am-5.30pm. Contact: warminstervbrd@gmail.com Warminster Fesival ‘Grand Festival Opening’ High Street, Warminster. 10am-4pm, Free car parking all day at Pay & Display car parks. www.warminsterfestival.co.uk Harvest Festival Chapel Of St. Lawrence, High Street, Warminster. 3.30pm. 01985 216560

Blood Donor Session Warminster Civic Centre, Sambourne Road, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12. 1.30-3.30 and 4.30-7.15pm. Call 0300 123 23 23 for an appointment The Athenaeum Singers Workshop ‘Songs from the Shows’ Christ Church, Weymouth Street, Warminster BA12 9NS, 7.15pm. An open evening of rehearsing and performing popular songs. Cost £5 including music hire. www.athenaeumsingers.com

Friday 25th October

Saturday 18th October

Sunday 19th October

Tuesday 21st October

Warminster Carnival Main procession will leave Boreham Road at 7.00 pm. Route: Boreham Road (starts at Warminster Conservative Club), East Street, Market Place, High Street, George Street, Silver Street (ends at The Obelisk). Sandra Major, 01985 217050

Sunday 26th October “Musicke In The Ayre” The Chapel of St. Lawrence, High Street Warminster, 4pm. Soprano Jane Hunt accompanied by Din Ghani on the lute. 01985 216560

WARMINSTER FESTIVAL

For further information, go to www.warminsterfestival.co.uk Saturday 18th October Harp Recital by Cecilia de Maria, St George’s Church. 7.30pm. Free. Sunday 19th October Piano Recital – Plamen Tsvetanov. Althenaeum Centre. 7.30pm. Free. Monday 20th October Warminster Fire Station Open Evening. 7pm. Free. Wednesday 23rd October ‘Poetry Out Loud’. Warminster Library. 2pm. Free Friday 25th October ‘Call My Bluff’. Althenaeum Centre. 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 Friday 31st October ‘Wonders of Warminster’ Concert, Althenaeum Centre. 7.30pm. Tickets £10.

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WHAT’S ON

Regular Weekly / Monthly Events TUESDAYS Warminster Philatelic Society The Athenaeum, High Street. 7.30 for 7.45pm start. 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. Colin Baker, 01985 840033. Clarks Pensioners Club Warminster Town Football Club, Weymouth Street. 1st Tuesday of every month, 2.00 pm. Robin, 01985 215724 Wiltshire Blind Association Monthly coffee morning/dropin session for people with sight

problems. Meeting room at the rear of Warminster Fire Station (access off The Avenue), 10am-12.30pm, 2nd Tuesday of every month enquiries@wiltshireblind.org

Warminster Astronomy Club The Organ Inn (skittle alley at the rear), High Street, Warminster, 7 for 7.30pm, 2nd Friday of every month. info@ warminsterastronomyclub.org.uk

FRIDAYS Warminster Country Market Warminster Library, Three Horseshoe Walk. 9.30-11.30am. Every Friday Tel orders to 01985 840536

Submit your event before 12th OCTOBER 2014 to appear here!

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www.alocallife.co.uk

Waitrose Warminster’s Passionate Partnership

arminster Waitrose opened in March 2010, on the previous site of glove manufacturer Dents. Waitrose wanted to extend its reach to the people of Warminster and the surrounding areas, as a survey had shown that residents were travelling to stores in Gillingham and Salisbury. In the four years since, the store has been a magnificent triumph for the town and the company alike. With over 15,000 transactions made each week and over £30,000 donated to charity, it has been a welcome addition for the people of Warminster. Store manager Nick Beazley is delighted with the store’s success and is very pleased with the new front desk which offers customers a concierge-like service. Customers can now collect items ordered online from John Lewis at the new desk. Nick says, “We like to think that we are a friendly, locally based business who know what our customers want, and we try to provide the best customer service for them.” Nick, whose background before joining the John Lewis Partnership was in agriculture, is particularly proud of the ‘grow & sell’ initiative that the store undertook with Kingdown Community School and local primary schools, and the store recently donated a £100 grant to Music Matters, the Eddington choral group. No1 October 2014

COMMUNITY

Bruce Munro illuminates the revitalised Wiltshire Music Centre

s the doors open for the Autumn /Winter season at the Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford on Avon audiences will notice quite a few changes. This is the first season that has been programmed entirely by the new artistic director, James Slater, and his confident and forwardlooking touch was apparent from the first concert, the opening gala concert by Rachel Podger and Brecon Baroque on 20 September.

The change which will stop people in their tracks, though, is the stunning new light sculpture, ‘Rhythm and Blues’ created by internationally acclaimed British artist Bruce Munro. Weaving its way in serpentine fashion across the ceiling of the foyer, this graceful artwork is the artist’s response to the Centre as a hub of musical commitment and creativity.

The suspended structure comprises 405 strands of illuminated fibre optic, and Returning visitors will immediately aluminium diffusers. The artwork, notice the benefits of the recent reflected in three mirrors, at once £371k Arts Council England expands, illuminates and draws grant, which has allowed for the eye, inviting consideration and significant upgrading of the contemplation. Bruce Munro said 16 year old building. Physical today: “It is a privilege to have improvements to the foyer and been invited to create a piece at café-bar area will ensure a much the Wiltshire Music Centre, and more comfortable and appealing its presence here is testimony to visitor experience, and enhanced the amazing work of the Centre technical equipment and acoustic team and its significance as a treatment in the auditorium will venue showing first class music enable an even better quality in Wiltshire and the surrounding sound experience for all types of counties.” live music. 8

Munro’s work has been exhibited by the Victoria & Albert Museum, London and the Guggenheim Museum, New York. Since 2012, he has found that botanical gardens provide the generous space many of his outdoor pieces require and he has had solo exhibitions at Longwood Gardens, Cheekwood Museum and Gardens, and Franklin Park Conservatory. In November 2014 he continues his Residency at the Rothschild Foundation, Waddesdon Manor with a seven piece exhibition from 12 November to 4 January 2015 Clare Jack, Executive Director of Wiltshire Music Centre, said today: “The physical improvements have made a great difference, and Bruce Munro’s light installation is truly inspirational. With a fantastic programme of music ahead of us we are welcoming the new season with a great sense of optimism and excitement.” www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

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A LOCAL LIFE

Launch of Malmesbury Edition of Local Life Free magazines of this type become a resource for residents and for visitors and, for that reason, you will begin to see it around the town in community and business spaces as well.

’ve been working in and around Malmesbury for the last six years, though the town has been known to me for much longer – I’ve lived in Wiltshire for almost 20 years now. When André Balkham-Jones approached me with the idea of launching a Local Life for the town and the surrounding areas I took a long, hard look at what this magazine offers residents, businesses and charities in the area before saying yes. I already knew that it had been successful for Bradford on Avon so the magazine was offering something of value in that community. I strongly believe it can offer something of equal value in this part of Wiltshire.

With each issue, the aim is to deliver news, lifestyle articles and events relevant to you. This is an area, and county, with beautiful countryside, picturesque places to visit, great food establishments and a vibrant and connected business community. I look forward to sharing what’s on offer. As for me, I’ve been a journalist for more than 25 years, working in print and television. Initially I worked on a weekly newspaper in Somerset and then moved to the Swindon Advertiser where I worked for five years, ending up as business editor. I made the move into television in the mid 1990s and worked for ITV West as a series producer

in current affairs, political and factual entertainment programming. In 2009 I set up my own media consultancy, Mums In Media Ltd, offering effective PR services to businesses, sole traders and individuals. However, I’ve continued to write articles in Wiltshire and I’m also still a television producer/director. At home, I’m married with three children and a step-daughter so life is very busy indeed. I’m proud to be a working mum and proud to be bringing up my family in our beautiful county. If you have any feature ideas for the magazine, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Please drop me – or my colleagues – an email at malmesbury@alocallife.co.uk. Kind Regards,

Fiona Scott Malmesbury Editor

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COMMUNITY

Warminster Community Radio — Listen Up on 105.5 FM

arminster Community Radio was founded by Barry Mole and Mark Barnes, local Warminster men who had over 35 years of experience in radio between them.

WCR first hit the airwaves on the 1st of April 1996, broadcasting primarily into hospitals and reaching the wider public via a series of temporary licences to broadcast into homes. The response was so overwhelmingly positive that it was decided that WCR should work towards becoming a full-time community station. The right to broadcast continuously did not come easily but, after a 16 year campaign and a huge amount of local support, the station now broadcasts around the clock to Warminster and the surrounding area on 105.5 FM, and to the wider world via the internet. WCR also helped to set up Kingdown FM at Kingdown Community School. In 2005, Kingdown FM managed six public broadcasts. Run by a team of dedicated volunteers, WCR’s aim is to provide programmes that cater for all members of the local community. Tune in on 105.5 FM for a truly local radio gem. For further information:

01985 846111 www.wcrfm.org.uk

The Salisbury Fringe 2014

n 2013, the inaugral Salisbury Fringe theatre festival was an overwhelming success, with packed audiences at all the venues on the weekend of the 5th of October.

Having been frustrated by the lack of new theatre in the town, a group of local writers had decided to start the Salisbury Fringe, inspired by an idea put forward in the pub by one of the group, PR consultant Julian Demetriadi, managing director of Harnham-based CommunicationsPoint and a Salisbury Fringe 2014 sponsor. Avoiding conventional theatre venues, they wanted to put on new writing in easily accessible places. Following last year’s triumph, the Salisbury Fringe 2014 festival of new writing – ‘bite-sized plays in pubs and cafes’ – will take place from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th of October. The venues will include The Cosy Club, The Cloisters Pub and Restaurant, The Chapel Nightclub, Boston Tea Party, Cross Keys Shopping Centre and the UrmsonBurnett Gallery and Studio. In addition to new short plays, there is children’s theatre at the Cross Keys Shopping Centre on Saturday afternoon and, on the Sunday afternoon, there is a script writing workshop at the Boston Tea Party led by tutor, script editor and dramaturg Angela Street “The Salisbury Fringe 2014 festival of of Salisbury-based Sciptwriter’s Doo Dah. All events are FREE and regularly updated details can be found by visiting the Salisbury Fringe website: www.salisburyfringe.org.uk

new writing – ‘bite-sized plays in pubs and cafes’ – will take place from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th of October.”

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EDUCATION

Woman with a Vision – Sara Edwards, Headmistress, Kingdown

ased on Woodcock Road, Kingdown School is a mixed secondary school and sixth form in Warminster, Wiltshire for students aged 11 to 18. Since the 1st of August 2011 the school has been an academy. Academies are publicly funded independent schools that are not managed by a local authority. They can set pay and conditions for their staff and also change the length of their terms. Academies don’t have to follow the national curriculum. Kingdown is a multi-academy trust school and governs a number of schools including Dilton Marsh primary school and Avenue Primary School. The school was awarded dual specialisms in Sports and Applied Learning. It also achieved Artsmark Silver and Sportsmark Gold awards. In its 2003 report, Ofsted rated the school ‘good’ overall, rating the quality of education as ‘very good’. The 2008 inspection rated both the school and sixth form ‘outstanding’. Following the 2013 inspection its rating returned to ‘good’, on which the school commented, “It is very hard to compare previous (2008) and current (2013) inspections, not least as the four headings are a new addition since 2008 and the bar to achieve an outstanding rating has truly been raised.”

For the last four years it has been run under the leadership of headmistress Sara Edwards. She has worked at Kingdown since 1990 and was formerly a PE teacher, before promotion to Head of PE and then to Deputy Head under the inspired leadership of Sheelagh Brown. Edwards wanted to lead the school so that she could fulfil the vision for which she had laid the foundations as a deputy head, including a return to the coveted Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rating. The school runs a ‘vertical tutor group’ system, which was adopted from an Australian education model. Edwards describes the system, which places a few pupils from each year in the same tutor group for their entire school life, as “transformational” in terms of pupil confidence and growth. Each pupil is assigned a senior pupil mentor as their ‘go-to’ person. This system actively encourages mentorship and responsibility. The September 2014 intake of Year 7 will create the largest year the school has seen for some time, with over 360 pupils joining Kingdown, of which my son will be one. Edwards and her staff will have their work cut out for them but, with continuous investment in infrastructure, technology and a committed energetic team, the school with the motto “believe, aspire and achieve” will surely rise to the challenge.

No1 October 2014

EDUCATION

Man with a Mission – Mark Mortimer, Headmaster, Warminster School

n January 2014 Mark Mortimer assumed the role of Headmaster at Warminster School, the locally situated, independent boarding and day school.

A former army officer and Atlantic rower with an MBA in business management, he brings to Warminster a combination of inspirational teaching experience, leadership and endurance. The School comprises the Prep School for pupils aged three to eleven and the Senior School for students aged eleven to eighteen. Founded in 1707, it was originally the Lord Weymouth Grammar School, a free school set up by the then Viscount Weymouth, Thomas Thynne, to educate the workers on the Longleat Estate. In 1973 the school merged with St. Monica’s girls’ school, which had been founded in 1874 by the nuns of the St. Denys Retreat. The Senior School’s majestic buildings lie in grounds which face open country. The Preparatory School is on a neighbouring site and has long-established links with the town, enjoying strong support. 12

According to Mark Mortimer, “Good exam results offer opportunity, but education is more than results and an all-round, values-based approach is vital.” He asks parents of prospective pupils, “What sort of person do you want your child to be when they leave here for the final time?” “Financially independent and living somewhere else?” I suggest. He laughs, and explains to me that, in his eyes, emotional intelligence, optimism and resilience are important life skills and this is what he aims to encourage in his pupils. He is a firm believer that a school has a responsibility, particularly in this day and age, to prepare pupils for life beyond university. In the short term he is looking to build relationships with the community and local schools. Mark Mortimer is looking at collaborative teaching, but it is only the beginning of his plans for the School. With a new inspiring Headmaster, there are exciting times ahead for Warminster School, staff and pupils alike.

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EDUCATION

No1 October 2014

BUSINESS FEATURE

Local Boy Done Good Terry Hillier Managing Director, RACS Group

erry Hillier grew up in Warminster from humble beginnings. His father joined the Wiltshire Police Force and was a well known ‘Bobby’ about town; his mother, a trained bookkeeper, worked for a local bookmaker before joining a thriving import business, Junction 18, where she still works today. Terry attended New Close Primary School and then Kingdown, the local comprehensive, where he excelled at Maths and Physics. Terry left school with an ‘O’ Level in Maths (taken 6 months early), 8 GCSE’s and ‘A’ Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics & Chemistry, which earned him a place on a Maths & Computing degree at Cardiff University. Hardworking even at this early age, Terry spent his holidays working for local businesses Junction 18 and, later, Lyons Seafoods, which gave him a taste for financial independence and security. His innate ability to understand numbers and logic have stood him in great stead for his career with a variety of financially-based organisations prior to forming RACS Group. RACS Group’s growth is a genuine ‘rags to riches’ story, which should give inspiration to all entrepreneurs who dream of creating a successful business. Led by his infectious energy, Terry has a clear and defined vision for the business, which is to be “the UK’s most compliant, client-focused payroll solutions provider”. In little more than seven years the company has evolved from a back-bedroom start-up barely ‘washing its financial face’, to a corporate entity 14

turning over in excess of £75million. Perhaps even more startling is the fact that the business still has vast potential for continued expansion, and the current eye-watering figures represent a proverbial ‘drop in the ocean’ as to what lies ahead. RACS Group has established itself as a serious player in a growing marketplace, enhanced by a newly devised corporate identity based on playful characters to represent the respective sectors in which the company operates. Investing in a concerted advertising campaign propelled the characters into the consciousness of the industry and established RACS Group as a true contender. Winning Insider magazine’s Fastest Growing Company in the South West Award for both 2013 and 2014 provided a fillip for all those connected to the business and validated Hillier’s faith in the compliance-based message. Staff levels increased accordingly and soon his premises were creaking at the seams. An opportunity arose to refurbish a much-loved dilapidated snooker hall, in the centre of Warminster, which Terry frequented in his youth. Characteristically, he seized the moment, spending almost £1 million to create RACS Group’s current state-of-the-art headquarters in Three Horseshoes Walk, providing a cutting-edge working environment for RACS employees. Now RACS Group’s predicted turnover up to April 2015 is expected to exceed £120 million, and more and more leading recruitment agencies are becoming clients. The age of austerity placed a new emphasis on compliance as HMRC went on the warpath to reclaim any unpaid taxes (perceived or otherwise) from an industry still adjusting to a new legislative order. Almost without noticing, RACS Group had become the safest and most reliable provider in the UK. RACS Group continues to flourish and diversify in equal measure. Terry’s belief in marketing inspired the formation of an in-house creative agency and his love of building inevitably resulted in a new property development division. Seven years later and this wonderful commercial story is still unfolding as there is still a lot more to come from Terry Hillier and RACS Group. www.racsgroup.com

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BUSINESS FEATURE

GROWING & DIVERSIFYING... WE CAN DO THE SAME FOR YOU

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Compliance Without Compromise Head Office RACS Group House, Three Horseshoes Walk Warminster, Wiltshire. BA12 9BT

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0845 604 0571 info@racsgroup.com www.racsgroup.com

No1 October 2014

HOUSE & HOME

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HOUSE & HOME

Kitchen interiors in Bradford on Avon

a customer’s practical needs and wants, along with wish-list items, to fit within their design. Combined with the balance of budget and styles, Formosa can help create the ultimate beautiful kitchen. From sleek, contemporary gloss styles to detailed, classic traditional, or whether you are looking for something bespoke and handcrafted to your requirements, Formosa will A journey from Bath to Bradford guide you through the complete on Avon via Winsley reminded process using the latest 3D Cad Natasha of the many kitchens they design. Catering for all tastes have fitted in the area, “even in and budgets, Formosa can the current economic climate, lots create your perfect kitchen and of hard work and a professional if required can follow through approach has meant that we have with their in house installation created a sustainable business and team, ensuring continued quality continue to grow.” throughout. With a friendly and relaxed approach, Formosa aims Through the years, Natasha has to make the customer feel at gained a huge knowledge and ease when taking on such an understanding of how to apply ormosa Kitchens of Silver Street, Bradford on Avon has been trading for three years. Created and run by Natasha Allin, who has been working within the Kitchen and Bathroom Industry for almost a decade, and Kara Simpson, a recent addition to the Formosa team.

No1 October 2014

important project in the home. With a delightful, eclectic range of kitchens on display, you will be sure to find your ideal kitchen with Formosa. They also have completed many freshen-up projects – replacing work tops, tiles and door fronts to give your existing kitchen a fresh new look without the expense of a complete refit. Opening hours: Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday- Monday CLOSED Formosa Kitchens Ltd., 32 Silver Street Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1JX 01225 868877 info@formosakitchens.co.uk www.formosakitchens.co.uk 17

HOUSE & HOME

Bespoke interiors in the heart of Bradford on Avon

or nearly one hundred, years, this prime town center corner building had been licensed premises. From smoky drinking den to serene beautiful handcrafted interiors, the place has undergone a complete transformation. Coppice Guild, at the foot of Coppice Hill and The Shambles, is the concept of local resident Julie Mason. Julie has a wealth of experience working with cabinet makers, including well known names 18

such as Plain English, Chalon and Mark Wilkinson. Inside you will find elegant displays, one of which is called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Shamblesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The kitchen cleverly combines several different door styles all painted in one harmonious colour to give an interesting, eclectic feel.

dark blues and white. The old filament light bulbs and brass bell are the finishing touches. Yet Coppice Guild is so much more than just kitchens; you can gain beautiful professionally designed cabinetry for any room without the heavy branded price tag.

Behind the AGA, the carefully concealed listed fireplace remains hidden behind a false wall.

With strong connections to local makers and fellow professionals, Coppice Guild offers a complete turnkey solution to any project you may have in mind. With links to architects, garden and interior designers (also women, coincidentally!) it is a really convenient place to start discussing a project.

Downstairs, the old cellar has been renovated, retaining original features such as dramatic old beams and a stone column which used to act as a stop against the many beer barrels being thrown down from the street â&#x20AC;&#x201C; over time they had dislodged the bottom block of Ashlar. The space now feels like the hull of a boat, with horizontal panelling and the use of naval

Just give Julie a call on 01225 862268 or call into the showroom at 28 Coppice Hill, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1JT. www.coppiceguild.co.uk

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HOUSE & HOME We have a wide range of carpets and flooring, with something to suit everybody’s taste and budget. The range of flooring includes carpets, vinyls, natural flooring, wood, and karndean in a wide range of colours, styles and textures. Ben Rule has been in the trade for over 13 years and has built a reputation for value and a service that is second to none. Like everything, it’s not just the quality of the products but how they are fitted that makes the difference.

“Exceptional service with attention to detail and a realistic competitive price from a local trusted business”.

Tudor Hopkins, Old Manor Hotel

Quality Flooring We are an independent company recently relocated to the area. Based in Trowle Common, we cover Bradford on Avon, Bath, Trowbridge, Holt, Melksham, Corsham and all the surrounding villages. As we don’t have expensive showrooms we can offer the very highest service and competitive pricing.

We pride ourselves on our friendly, helpful and personal approach, with no pushy sales! We offer a home sample service from our large range, with a free measuring, estimation and planning service. Ben Rule 01225 350386 07875 701860 www.carpetsbybenrule.co.uk

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TRAVEL FEATURE

a new travel experience

high-tech manufacturer's business and establishing itself on the travel department, and travel and high street and the internet. The tourism lecturing. agency is a member of the Global Travel group, which provides full The agency ethos is based financial protection for clients’ on a friendly, personal money and holiday arrangements. Established in 2006, Travel Options We offer a full agency service, service provided by her 4U has been grown by Jenette team, coupled with expert Spirovski here in Bradford On Avon. Jenette has lived in the knowledge of destinations town since 1990, her children and fastidious checking go to local schools and she is of all the resorts, hotels, passionate about Bradford on operators and partners Avon’s local trade. Jenette has a wealth of expertise and experience used to make up your in the travel and tourism industry! travel package. ew office open in Bradford on Avon for your local independent travel agent – Travel Options 4U.

A passion for travel from an early age led to a college course and qualification in Travel, Tourism and Business Management, followed by 25 years of work in travel agents, an international 20

Now with a strong base of returning customers, Travel Options 4U is growing its business, moving from a homebased agency to an agency in town on Frome Road, adding staff

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TRAVEL FEATURE welcome email and telephone enquiries, travel by appointment and home visits to suit you! We listen to our clients' needs and aspirations, helping develop these with questions such as "If money was no object what would you like to see or do?" Then we use our experience, knowledge and contacts to find ways of fulfilling their aspirations. Our success in this brings clients back to us time and again as they recognize we can achieve much more than they can on their own – even with the internet – as we have deals exclusive to us, and knowledge. They trust that we will be thorough in our research, finding absolutely the best deal and package, comparing options to find the perfect deal for you. The personal service is an important part of our work.

Journey of a lifetime Whether you are taking a cruise to UAE, exploring the metropolis of Dubai and its beaches, visiting the desert in Oman and seeing how the Bedouins live, or touring the great places and sites of Australia, you want to know your plans and investment are safe. Trust our expertise, resources and experience to look after your dream holiday. Family Holidays We can get you great deals on package holidays with all the major tour operators and always ensure best prices by costing the separate elements (as you may do on the internet yourself) and comparing options. Whichever is cheaper we can book for you, with the bonus of any tailor made package being ATOL covered as we are a member of the Global Travel group. Then you can relax on the beach in Lanzarote, chill at a villa in France, or enjoy the thrills of Disney World without a care!

• Cruises • Group bookings – all types of holidays • Villa holidays • Winter and summer sun • Ski, snowboarding and winter sports holidays Come in and choose a last minute bargain deal to; the sun, a romantic weekend in Paris. Or go to Barcelona as a group of friends recently did. Explore the UK with a week’s stay in a cottage for the summer – perhaps in lovely Cornwall, or to the beaches of Wales. UK City breaks include cultural destinations such as Oxford, or take a weekend to London by train for a show! If it’s travel we do it – find us at www.traveloptions4u.co.uk, email j@traveloptions4u.gtmail.co.uk telephone 01225 860977, or find us on Facebook.

Other Travel Services • Business and Incentive Travel • Honeymoons and Weddings • Round the World and Gap years • Rail journeys and touring • Short-breaks • Specialist holidays • Club 18-30 , adventure touring and multicentre holidays • UK holidays • City breaks

T: 01225 860977 W: www.traveloptions4u.co.uk Opening hours: 9.30am - 5pm Monday to Saturday No1 October 2014

Food&drink

The Three Horseshoes – a traditional British pub with a touch de France

renchman Benjamin R. J. Leveque (French for Bishop) has been managing The Three Horseshoes pub, or ‘The Shoes’ as it is locally known, since The Banwell House Pub Company bought it in May 2011. He describes it as “a classic British pub with a French influence.” Today, Banwell House owns four pubs including The Three Horsehoes. Each Banwell pub is individual with design similarities throughout, all sharing the same values: best service, great beers, a place to go for a long leisurely lunch that rolls into the evening. ‘The Shoes’ is open from 10am in the morning until midnight. The pub has a warm and friendly atmosphere. It is run by a fantastic team of people, the majority of whom have been onboard since the 22

pub re-opened its doors to the village of Chapmanslade, on the outskirts of Warminster, Westbury and Frome. For Ben and Banwell, opening the doors of the freshly painted Shoes was first and foremost about relocating the pub into the heart of the community. Following discussion with the parish council, the pub offers local groups a welcoming meeting place in which locals gather. It is now a regular haunt of the local history group and a ladies coffee morning – with other groups always welcome. Twice a month ‘The Shoes’ hosts music evenings to connect with livelier members of the community, and has quickly become a beating heart in the centre of the village. A year ago, Ben took on head chef Anthony Dubois, a fellow Frenchman who began his career, many moons ago, as an apprentice in Ben’s father’s kitchen at the Restaurant la Fenderie, Laval, France. Anthony

brought a blend of British and Bistro to ‘The Shoes’. The menu is divided into British pub classics and a flavour of France, with some tantalising Bistro Classics. Every day, in addition to the monthly menus, there is a daily specials board with elegant entrées, such as pan fried Sea Bass with sauté potatoes, a tomato coulis, watercress salad and king prawn tails. By serving generous portions, ‘The Shoes’ is a popular eatery for the Chapmanslade community and now the neighbouring towns, with regulars migrating in from far and wide. Sundays are extremely busy for the family friendly pub, which offers a classic Sunday Roast, with children eating for only £1. There is also free wifi, and games and books to keep the children entertained. Booking is definitely recommended. With Christmas around the corner, ‘The Shoes’ mezzanine is the perfect place to host a Christmas

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Food&drink the delicious, delightful French dish Tartiflette is coming soon.

party, and choose from the fantastic a la carte menu, with 2 courses for £15.95 and 3 courses for £19.95. The wine list is creative and reasonably priced, providing an eclectic mix of French and New World wines to accompany the meal. What a superb way to celebrate the festive season with family, friends and work colleagues. On the Christmas menu is an ambrosial melt-in-themouth starter to tempt your tastebuds. The slow-braised ox tail Wellington, topped with duck liver parfait, served in puff pastry with port reduction, is a great French and British alliance. It combines meaty, hearty flavours and tantalisingly crunchy textures. Anthony, a fantastic dessert chef, has also given a French twist to the classic British pudding, Eton Mess, adding a freshly made

This classic French dish is to die for, and definitely not to be missed, just like The Three Horseshoes in Chapmanslade. It’s a fabulous pub that is definitely worth a visit. The Three Horseshoes Pub Chapmanslade Wiltshire BA13 4AN

crème patissière to give it a lusciously custardy edge.

Tel: 01373 832211 info@threehorseshoes.uk.com www.threehorseshoes.uk.com

As the Autumn equinox approaches and the evenings draw in, the warmth of The Three Horseshoes is the perfect place to while away the winter in front of their roaring log fire. There are rumours afoot that

the three horseshoes Chapmanslade

No1 October 2014

Food&drink

The Three Gables

ince its opening in 2011, The Three Gables in Bradford on Avon has built up a reputation as being the place to go for a fine dining experience in this beautiful town. The awardwinning restaurant, which attracts diners not just from Bradford and Bath, but from Wiltshire and beyond, offers the perfect combination of exquisite cooking and excellent service, served up in stunning surroundings. Set within an attractive 17th Century building, and having undergone a sympathetic refurbishment, the restaurant offers the perfect environment to enjoy dishes created from the finest seasonal produce,

focussing on top quality and flavour. Restaurant manager Vito Scudato and classically trained head chef Marc Salmon each have over twenty years’ experience in the region’s finest restaurants and hotels (Marc having worked at both the Priory and the Royal Crescent Hotels in Bath). In the kitchen at The Three Gables Marc creates dishes with a modern European twist that have gained 2 AA Rosettes, 3 Forks in the Michelin Guide and a new entry in the 2015 Good Food Guide. With the emphasis on quality, Marc combines locally sourced ingredients with classical and modern techniques, to produce tempting starters like pig’s cheek Scotch egg with pickled cucumber and sauce

gribiche, and delicious smoked mackerel with radish, potato and watercress salad. Heading up the front of house team, Vito, and his experienced waiting staff offer each visitor a warm welcome and the highest levels of service. Vito is also responsible for the extensive wine list, which features vintages from French and Italian regions, with a good selection available by the glass.

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HEADING Food&drink

UPCOMING EVENTS 6th November, 7.30pm for 8pm Wine dinner with Antinori Estates wines Four courses including wines: £85.00 per head 3rd, 17th and 18th December Christmas Party Nights: Dinner with live jazz band French Connection Set dinner £32.00 10th December, 7.30pm for 8pm

Vito has a passion for finding wine producers who have an individual approach to sourcing wines, some of which may be unusual and all of which are of the highest quality. With its splendid view of the river, the Three Gables makes a wonderful venue for any special occasion, from a romantic dinner for two to private parties and corporate entertaining, where clients may choose to book exclusive use of the Restaurant or bar area.

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit The Three Gables, with many exciting events leading right up to Christmas and beyond. Make sure you book in plenty of time. www.thethreegables.com

“

a modern European twist that has gained 2 AA Rosettes, 3 Forks in the Michelin Guide and a new entry in the 2015 Good Food Guide

An evening of carols and songs with soprano Susan Coates Three courses: £45.00 per head 10% Discount on food for all parties of 6 or more when you book before October 31st 31st December 2014 New Year’s Eve Celebration Venetian themed Gala Dinner offers a drinks reception on arrival and a selection of canapes whilst listening to live jazz. £90.00 per person

”

Christmas Lunch: £19.50 for two courses and £24 for Dinner Set Dinner: £32 Tuesday to Thursday and £35 on Friday and Saturday

Now Taking bookings for Christmas Parties Lunch Special Offer! 2 Courses £19.50, 3 Courses £24.00 Available until 30th November 2014 except for special events any other offer!

THE THREE GABLES 01225 781666

St. Margarets Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1DA.

thethreegables.com No1 October 2014

info@thethreegables.com 25

making PRECIOUS things... A large open plan design studio with goldsmiths working on the premises.

he skill of the goldsmith, which has basically remained unchanged for hundreds of years, and the open plan workshop with large showroom, gives Ortons a unique feel.

The transformation of raw materials into beautiful bespoke designs is just one of the many services offered. From the original design idea, often submitted by the customer, this highly skilled team of goldsmiths can create ’one off’ pieces, from a simple gold wedding band to a colourful cocktail ring. They have an inspiring collection of loose stones on display, including every imaginable colour of tourmaline, tanzanites, moonstones and opals, to more unusual stones such as colour-change garnets and Cambodian zircons which have the appearance of cognac diamonds but are a fraction of the price!

In this age of mass-production, the use of traditional tools and techniques is a refreshing aspect of this Bradford on Avon based business.

Creating bespoke pieces is their specialty, along with the benefit of full workshop facilities. They handle everything from a simple chain repair to putting the handle back on to that old Silver Coffee pot!

Design • Commissions • Workshop on premises • Wedding Rings 26 26

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JEWELLERY FEATURE

The team at Orton’s will also happily help and advise regarding valuations of jewellery, gaining reassurance for their customers that if their jewellery is damaged or stolen, the insurance claim will be handled more swiftly and accurately with an up-to-date valuation.

“Come and talk to us for advice about commissions and re-modelling your old jewellery, valuations and repairs – all taken care of in house.” Opening hours are Tues – Sat, 10am-5pm, or by arrangement.

most “ The prestigous pieces of jewellery are still those which are handmade

” jewellery

6-7 Market Street, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire. BA15 1LH.

Tel: 01225 309039 www.ortonjewellery.co.uk No1 October 2014

27 27

UP CLOSE clear at the first meeting of the Dementia Friendly Communities Champion Group, set up to drive work on the Prime Minister’s challenge. “At our very first group meeting it was fascinating to see representatives from banking, insurance, supermarkets, department stores, social groups, local councils, the fire brigades, the police, city councils — all of these people coming together. They were saying, yes, not only are we already thinking along these lines but we are pushing at an open door because it’s evident that the staff are already full of people who have an association with dementia in some way.”

Dementia and Dignity by Clare Macnaughton

Local Life met British icon, broadcaster and journalist Angela Rippon at the opening of the Port Haven Care Homes, Wiltshire Heights Care Home in Bradford on Avon. She has championed the cause of people with dementia in her role as an Alzheimer’s Society ambassador. Her objective is considerable: to change the attitudes of a nation. For Angela Rippon OBE, however, making the UK a place where people with dementia can feel comfortable and safe is of paramount importance. Angela, whose mother Edna died with dementia in 2009, is committed to making sure the condition is better understood and that people who have dementia are accepted by their communities and not stigmatised.

She says, “What’s fascinating about the whole process of creating dementia-friendly communities is that it sounds easy but it is a huge job. We’re trying to change the mindset of a generation to accept dementia and not be afraid of it, to take away the stigma associated with it. As a result of that we want people to be given information about dementia and how to deal with people with dementia and their carers so that we can maintain their dignity and independence.”

Showing the way Angela hopes that by 2015 dementia-friendly communities such as Wiltshire Heights in Bradford on Avon will exist across the country, and that the UK can be an example for others. “If we can show the way here in Britain and ensure that people with dementia and their carers can maintain their independence and their dignity — because the rest of society understands the problems that they have and how to deal with them — then that is going to be the most amazing thing.”

Permeating society The impact of dementia is increasing. For Angela, the changes in attitude need to reach all areas of society in order to be successful, but this is feasible because dementia has affected so many people. She says this was

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HEALTHCARE

Stairs driving you around the bend?

n average we go up and down stairs over 200,000 times in our lifetime. For most of us, these things only take a minute. But many people find it incredibly difficult. That’s why stairlifts were invented: to make life easier. The earliest record of a stairlift dates back to the 1500s, when King Henry IIIV invented his very own “Stairthrone”. Stairlifts were widely introduced in the UK in the 1970s and since then have made climbing the stairs simpler and safer for millions of people. Stairlift design has changed over the years to be more sleek and elegant, in a choice of colours to blend into the home. They fit to the stairs and not the wall so you won’t need to redecorate, and they can be on your stairs in around as little as 3 hours. 1st Choice Stairlifts, based in Wiltshire, are experts when it comes to having a Stairlift fitted. The company offers many different models from most

manufacturers to make sure that you get the best stairlift for your stairs and your needs. Stairlifts can fit on any staircase, whether indoors or outdoors, a straight flight or curved stairs, even spiral stairs too. Rental stairlifts are also an option for a short term solution, or even to help a relative who is staying over the festive period! 1st Choice can also can repair and service your stairlift, irrespective of who fitted it originally, to make sure it is working and in tip-top condition. If you know someone whose stairs are driving them around the bend, 1st Choice Stairlifts can help. Call now to avoid the pre-christmas rush (honestly!) on 08000 19 22 10, or visit www.1stchoicestairlifts.com. 1st Choice Stairlifts are members of the British Healthcare Trades Association and adhere to their Code of Practice which is approved by the Trading Standards Institute and protects consumers when purchasing mobility products.

No1 October 2014

SHOPPING

gift and shopping ideas

Precious gifts from the silver gilt range from £25 to £250 If you are looking for the perfect gift this Christmas, look no further than a Bowood Gift Voucher. These can be purchased for specific things such as a round of golf, spa treatments or pamper days or even as a monetary voucher for your friend or loved one to spend on what they wish.

Orton Jewellery, 6-7 Market Street Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LH 01225 309039 www.ortonjewellery.co.uk

01249 822228 marketing@bowood.org www.bowood.org

Lenny Chair . . . possibly the comfiest chair you’ll ever sit in! From £750 . . . great choice of fabric or leather. Proprietor – Tom O’Hare 15 George Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8QA 01985 847031 07919 486805 sofacoplus@yahoo www.sofaco.uk

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LIFESTYLE

Wonderful Wiltshire Retirement Village!

Last remaining properties for sale or rent

• Located in beautiful Westbury • 1 and 2 bedroom apartments available to purchase or rent • Real independence, real choices • Really high standards • Great alternative to a care home • Respite and recuperative stays You’d be surprised at how flexible our team of advisers can be to tailor-make a purchase/ rental arrangement that best suits your needs.

call 0800 0147 552 or email sales@chantrycourt.com

www.chantrycourt.com Care provided in your own home by a company registered with the CQC. In association with The Old Prebendal House www.oldprebendalhouse.com

No1 October 2014

HEALTH & LEISURE

Autumnal Rejuvenation Neem and Pumpkin Facial at Bowood Spa by Clare Macnaughton

As summer drew to a close, and with my skin showing the signs of prolonged sun exposure, I seized the opportunity to experience the special autumn facial offered by Bowood Spa. The promise was that the Sundari healing facial and scalp massage would rejuvenate my skin and the pumpkin would freshen it, leaving a healthy glow.

essences distilled from nature, blending modern science for immediate results with botanicals known through ancient wisdom. The products to be applied were extensive and, I was to discover later, smelled heavenly.

My beautician guided me to my aubergine-coloured, warmly lit treatment room, with ambient music playing in the background, Bowood Spa is a fantastic facility and began my treatment with set amid the grounds of the a gentle foot exfoliation and Bowood Hotel and golf course massage. The facial itself involved near Calne. The spacious spa has an infinity pool, gym, steam room, a bindi touch, three special jacuzzi, sauna and rainfall shower, inhalations of Vata facial oil, with well equipped clean changing multiple cleansings and tonic tonings, hot towels, tapping, rooms. Each locker contains slippers, a robe, a large towel and dabbing, exfoliation, massage, mask removal, tonic water a hand towel. spray, eye care and then a final On arrival I was given a moisturise. questionnaire to establish my skin type, so that my Dosha lunch could be tailored accordingly. I was a Vata, which meant that my skin was dry, and lunch was to be mackerel and ratatouille, nut salad, orange segments and mini pitta bread, all chosen to nourish my skin.

The highlight of the facial for me was the Apricot and Shea Hydra Soothing Mask, which smelt delicious, like exquisite cheesecake, but felt cool, light and gentle on my skin. At the end of the treatment I felt relaxed, renewed and glowing. My skin, which had sustained significant sun damage this summer, looked invigorated and refreshed. The limited edition seasonal Neem and Pumpkin facial is available at the Bowood Spa from the 1st September to the 30th November for £90 (rrp £155). Alternatively, you can relax in the spa for a day with a light lunch from only £40 per person. Ref: ALL01B www.bowood.org/spa 01249 823883

The hour-long facial used products from the Sundari range, a luscious collection of anti-aging skincare products created from the purest ingredients and rarest 32

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