April 2011 Advertiser

The

| The Advertiser | page 1 |

| April 2011 |

Advertiser Essential shops & services with everything you need – all wonderfully local!

Inside this month: John Betjeman Poetry Competition Bromsgrove Leisure & Lunch Club Faringdon’s very own “Oscars” Wine & Restaurant Review and more Promoting local business, trade and services. Advertise! Be Seen! Call Lou 01367 246130

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The

| April 2011 |

Advertiser Charles Hickman Ltd Heating & Plumbing Engineer

• • • • • •

Central Heating Installations New Bathrooms Upgrade Heating Controls Outdoor Taps Washing Machine Installation Small Works

Over 30 years’ experience installing heating & plumbing systems, small works and maintenance Please call Charles for a professional and reliable service

(Clanfield) 01367 810457 Mobile 07760 170625

“The most thorough carpet cleaning you have ever seen, or it’s free! You have our guarantee” That’s right, the most thorough cleaning ever. If you’re not 100% absolutely delighted with any aspect of our carpet and upholstery cleaning service we’ll quickly return and give you a free re-clean.

If we still can’t make you happy we will refund your money 100% - What could be fairer?

You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your carpets and upholstery clean - We’ll give you the best value for your investment!

We’ve invested in the best cleaning system possible.

Our powerful machines give a deep down clean leaving a fantastic result on carpets and upholstery every time!

Curtains cleaned in situ, flood & fire restoration.

Your carpets will normally be dry in an hour. Full protection service available with guarantee! Excellent value for money!

DIRT BUSTERS Your local carpet, curtain & upholstery cleaners

Drop-off Rug Cleaning Service now available A family run business

Independently owned and operating in Oxfordshire

01993 842000 WARNING Don’t call any carpet cleaning company until you’ve listened to this free 24-hour recorded message.

FREE CONSUMER INFORMATION LINE

0800 695 1121 “The consumer’s Guide to Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning” Listen to this message and you will learn: How to avoid 4 carpet cleaning rip-offs 6 costly misconceptions 8 Questions to ask a carpet cleaner before you let him into your home AD 03/11

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Business Update The Annual General Meeting at Sudbury House Hotel brought many changes to Faringdon Chamber of Commerce. The meeting saw the retirement of two Officers; President Nick Elwell and Treasurer John Davis stood down after many years service between them. Paul Brame was elected the new President and thanked Nick and John for their dedication to the Chamber. Paul will be supported by Vice President Rachel Goddard, Treasurer Sarah Allen-Stevens and Secretary Jane Haynes.

A presentation was also made to Chamber member Margaret Barker in recognition of the fundraising that she has achieved in her year as Faringdon’s Mayor. The Faringdon First Responders and the Youth Centre have benefitted greatly from her efforts.

Starting a new business is exciting and rewarding but it can also be a challenge. There are many sources of information and support available. If you are not sure where to start you can contact your local Chamber of Commerce as members have a wealth of knowledge that they are happy to share. Annual membership of Faringdon Chamber of Commerce starts at just £20; for more information or to request an application form contact Chamber Secretary Jane Haynes on 01367 246137.

Oxfordshire Business Enterprises can provide free one-to-one business advice and support for start-up and small businesses.

Monthly meetings with an adviser are available in Faringdon. To find out more about this service please contact OBE on 01295 227082 or visit their website www.oxonbe.co.uk .

How To Submit Contact Lou Guthrie - Sales Manager Tel 01367 246130 Mobile 07894 554551 E-Mail lou@bordengate.com Web www.focusonuk.co.uk

Deadline for May Issue Wednesday 20th April

Cover artist - Doug Ovenden Doug Ovenden has been painting for the last 20 years. He has tried his hand at most painting techniques but has settled with watercolours, which he finds to be more challenging. He mostly paints birds, flowers and old buildings but his real passion is boats.

Doug’s other interest is wood carving; he collects wood from local hedgerows, cleans and polishes it and creates unique wild wood art forms which are much sought after. He is a member of both the Faringdon and Stanford in the Vale Art groups Doug retired to this area from Devon having completed 42 years working with and for the Royal Navy followed by 10 years working as a training consultant with the unemployed in local colleges.

Advice is also available for new businesses through the Business Link website www.businesslink.gov.uk or by calling the local helpline 0845 600 9 006.

2011 continues to be a great year for Faringdon Business Breakfast Club, with another 40 businesses at the March meeting and, now that we've passed the Equinox, we can look forward to sparkling bright mornings at Sudbury House to tempt out even more breakfasters. The next meeting of the FBBC will be on Monday 4th April at Sudbury House Hotel and, with George Osborne's budget fresh in mind, it's great that FBBC’s own Treasurer, Lawrence Harrison, can give his insights into what its real impact will be on small and medium-sized businesses. Book yourself in now and get a ringside seat. As always, the cost is £10 which includes a buffet breakfast. You can reserve your place today by phoning the booking line on 0845 003 1340 or alternatively you can book online at www.fbbc-networking.co.uk The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) grant, which helps SMEs in Berks, Bucks, MK and Oxon reduce the impact of their travel on the environment, is very straightforward to obtain and incredibly flexible. Sustainable Routes is an EU match funded grant to help businesses reduce travel costs and emissions. It is for businesses ranging in size from sole trader to 250 employees, based in Oxon, Bucks, Berks and MK. By completing the form on www.sustainableroutes.co.uk a Travel Efficiency Plan and Grant Application Form are sent instantly.

The Plan shows the savings from simple changes and highlights areas for using the grant such as: Ÿ Video conferencing equipment Ÿ Connecting to office servers from home Ÿ Laptops to support home working Ÿ Converting company vehicles to LPG Ÿ Bike racks or shower facilities that enable staff to cycle to work or to appointments

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Focus on … Bromsgrove Lunch & Leisure Club The Bromsgrove Lunch & Leisure Club (Faringdon Day Centre) is an informal and friendly meeting place for older people. Meeting twice a week, the Club provides great company, enjoyable activities and a relaxed atmosphere for anyone with at least 60 years’ experience of life.

The varied programme caters for all tastes, with activities ranging from gentle exercise classes and singalongs to card games, quizzes and craft sessions.

The Club also organises special events and outings, such as trips to garden centres, a canal boat ride along the Thames, themed activities on saints’ days and even a trip to the pantomime at Christmas!

The Club takes place on Monday and Thursday between 9.30am and 2.30pm at the Baptist Church Hall, Bromsgrove, Faringdon. A typical day starts with a welcome cuppa and a biscuit, followed by individual or small group activities and a tasty home-cooked lunch. In the afternoon there’s an activity that everyone can join in - but nothing is compulsory!

Transport to and from the club is available for members that need it, and is suitable for those in wheelchairs or with mobility or other special needs. The Club can also arrange for a nurse to visit to administer medication or help with any other health needs. The Club costs just £6 a day, including transport, a two course lunch, hot and cold drinks throughout the day and all activities.

Reduced fees are available to those on a low income through the Fairer Charging Scheme.

For more information or to arrange a visit, call the Bromsgrove Leisure & Lunch Club on 07523 116918 or email the Supervisor, Annamaria on anyamari3@yahoo.co.uk

4a London Street, Faringdon SN7 7AA

Come and see our great prices 3 wheel walker £65 Economy wheelchair £125 Budget rise/recline chair £575

Beds • Chairs • Rise/recliners • Bathlifts • Walkers Wheelchairs • Backcare • Sticks • Shopping Trolleys Commodes • Large stock of everyday aids

01367 240717 www.faringdonlifestyleandmobility.co.uk

Faringdon Chamber of Commerce Supports Bromsgrove Day Centre Nick Elwell, Chairman of the Faringdon District Chamber of Commerce, visited the Bromsgrove Lunch & Leisure Club (Faringdon Day Centre) recently to present them with a cheque from the proceeds of the Faringdon Christmas Ball in December 2010. Sue Thrower, Chairman of the Day Centre, thanked the Chamber of Commerce and all who attended the ball for their very welcome support. She also said: “Oxfordshire County Council provides significant funding, and clients pay for the cost of the lunch, but additional funding for outings and other special activities has to be raised from donations and running a Christmas bazaar. Gifts such as this are very much appreciated by our clients and staff.”

The photo shows Nick Elwell presenting the cheque to Annamaria Marone Kiss (Day Centre Supervisor) watched by Mary Plant (Assistant Supervisor) and Sue Thrower (Chairman of DayCentre Management Committee), with Harry Bowley and Dorothy Panting, two long-standing clients of the Day Centre, in the foreground.

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GLASS

GLASS PROCESSORS & GLAZIERS GLASS CUT WHILE-U-WAIT MIRRORS • BEVELLING SANDBLASTING • POLISHING DRILLING • DECORATIVE GLASS COLOURED SPLASHBACKS Cameo Glass, Park Road, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 7DS Tel: 01367 242421 Fax: 01367 242978 Email: sales@cameo-glass.com

Crowdy & Rose Solicitors of Faringdon and Lechlade We have a wealth of local knowledge and are an established part of the local community providing for the needs of our clients.

2 Market Place, Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 7HW Tel 01367 240285 High Street, Lechlade, Gloucestershire, GL7 3AE Tel: 01367 252644 Faringdon Branch

www.crowdyandrose.co.uk info@crowdyandrose.co.uk Established within the local community since 1790

Lechlade Branch

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Family Fun at Chickens @ Seven Acres Nurseries!

Tony, Maria and family welcome you to Chickens @ Seven Acres Nurseries in Stanford in the Vale. We breed up to 20 different breeds of chickens here, including Pekings, Buff Orpingtons, Marrans and the Funky Chicken, our own unique breed!

If you have always wanted to keep chickens come along for a chat and we can advise you on the breeds that make the best pets or are the best egg layers. You can hand pick your chicks and even come and visit every week till they’re old enough to go home with you!

We also stock everything your chickens will need - chicken houses, chicken runs, chicken feeders, chicken feed, chicken accessories … and of course we also sell our own free range chicken eggs!

As well as the chickens we have lots of rabbits and ducks for you to visit and buy, and you can pet our friendly Welsh Mountain Ponies Rosie and Jim and meet our pair of young KuneKune pigs called Bubble and Squeak!

Families are especially welcome to come along and feed the animals, have a cuppa and a slice of cake in the coffee shop, and stock up on compost, seeds or seasonal plants.

So why not call in for a visit today? We’re open every day except Thursdays, and you’ll find us just off the A417 at Stanford in the Vale.

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Ian, Christine and team welcome you to

2 Foreign Language Customer Service Specialist Vacancies

The Bell Hotel Market Place, Faringdon SN7 7HP

French and Swedish speaking Due to our continuing expansion into French and Scandinavian speaking markets, we are seeking to recruit two self-motivated individuals to join our dynamic UK based Customer Service team.

The successful applicants will need to have either French or Swedish as their first language. The candidates must also be IT literate and demonstrate excellent communication skills. As a focal point of contact for this growing business, both candidates must be pro-active and able to build strong customer focused relationships.

Working closely in conjunction with our French and Scandinavian Sales Agents, the successful applicants will be crucial members of strong teams who have considerable influence and respect in both the French and Scandinavian equestrian markets.

Applicants must reside within 35 minutes of the office.

Ariat Europe operates a non smoking environment policy

Applications in writing with CV to: Andrew Gray - Operations Manager Ariat Europe Limited 1 Radcot Estate, Park Road, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 8LA andrew.gray@ariat.com www.ariat-europe.com

£3.95 Baby Bell £4.95 Mummy Bell £6.95 Daddy Bell

Tel 01367 240534 free refill of tea or coffee with this advert

Call Gary on 01993 882863

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Calling all Young Poets!

If you’re aged 10-13 and like writing poetry, then you will be interested to hear that this year’s John Betjeman Poetry Competition is open now for entries. The competition honours the poet, who lived in Wantage and Uffington and wrote poems about both places.

The competition invites children to send in (by post or online) one poem on the theme of ‘place’. They can choose anywhere that is important to them and capture it in words – from their bedroom to somewhere they visited on holiday, from their favourite park to their favourite building.

Established by the family of former Poet Laureate, the John Betjeman Poetry Competition Charitable Trust seeks to foster a love of poetry in young people through supporting literacy and creativity and encouraging children aged 10-13 to explore the world they see around them through rhythm and language.

Joanna Lumley is the patron of the competition, and over the years it has been supported by some of the country's leading poets and writers, including Sir Andrew Motion, Roger McGough, Hugo Williams, Luke Wright, Valerie Grove, Laura Dockrill and Ian McMillan. The judges for this year’s competition are the celebrated Liverpudlian poet Brian Patten, who is also one of the most accessible and popular children’s poets working today, and the author and journalist Candida Crewe, who teaches literacy at Oxford Brookes University.

The competition is open to all children between the ages of 10-13 and the winner receives an individual prize of £500 prize and is also given the opportunity to donate another £500 to their school, local library, community hall or church. There are also five runners up prizes of £50 book tokens, and the six finalists are invited to read their poems aloud to an audience of judges, entrants, teachers and parents as well as sponsors and press, at a prize giving ceremony held in October on the concourse of St Pancras station, next to the bronze statue of John Betjeman.

To enter the competition visit the website: www.betjemanpoetrycompetition.com . You can also send your poem to The John Betjeman Poetry Competition, PO Box 51177, London, SE13 9BP. Make sure you include your name, address, age and a contact phone number. The closing date for entries is 31st July.

the organic way pure ~ honest ~ beautiful

pure me, 6a London Street, Faringdon SN7 7AA 01367 244558 www.pure-me.co.uk

Children’s Day Nursery in Shellingford, Faringdon Recognised by OFSTED in September 2010 as OUTSTANDING in Leadership & Management Excellent quality Children’s Day Nursery combining traditional loving care with a stimulating educational programme to provide a wellbalanced environment for your child.

• Children from 6 weeks to 5 years • Open 7.45am to 6.15pm Monday to Friday • Full time or part time (51 weeks) • Pre-school educational curriculum • French and music classes • Secure Door Entry System

To organise a visit please contact Steph Chapman, Nursery Manager on 01367 718888

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April & May 2011 At the NEW Lamb and Flag Dates for your Diary Sunday 3rd April Mothers Day Serving food all day from 11:45am until 9:00pm Regular Menus and Regular Prices Each table will be allocated a 2 hour window and every table with be sold twice Live Jazz and Swing Music – Twice a month, Every Month Join Us for Dinner or Just for Drinks!

Sunday 17th April – The Rascals of Rhythm from 7:30pm Sunday 24th April – Add Hock from 7:30pm (Easter Sunday Evening) Sunday 1st May – The Rascals of Rhythm from 7:30pm (May Day Bank Holiday) Sunday 29th May – Add Hock from 7:30pm (May Bank Holiday) Sunday 24th April 2011 Easter Sunday Lunch & Live Jazz and Swing Night Serving Food from 12noon – 9pm Regular menus and regular prices!

Each table will be allocated a 2 hour window and every table will be sold twice!

Live music with ‘Add Hock’ from 7:30pm – Join us for dinner or just for drinks!

Friday 29th April 2011 Royal Wedding – Join us for our ‘indoor’ Street Party Celebrate the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton at the NEW Lamb and Flag! Food Served ALL DAY from 12noon until 10pm FREE Bouncy Castle for the Kids from 11am until 9pm FREE Disco with DJ Ben from 8pm.

If the weather allows you can dance in the street!

Regular Menus and Prices Apply!

Beginners Ballroom Dance Classes Every Thursday Night – NEW FOR 2011 Dust off those dancing shoes and join the Lamb and Flag Landlord James and Ballroom dance instructor Donna for fun beginner’s ballroom classes (Partners not required) £7.50 per person, per class or three classes for £20.

New Beginners Welcome Every Week! Your First Class is Complimentary!

If Ann Widdecombe can do it ... so can you!

NEWS FLASH!! Food NOW served all day every day!

NEW FOR SPRING 2011 We have now extended our hours so we can serve food and takeaway all day, every day! FREE Wi-Fi too!

Join us for a Real Ale in Dudley’s Bar Dudley’s Bar is named after a very famous and infamous landlord of the 1960’s, Dirty Dudley. We are thrilled to announce that we have managed to source some photos of ‘Dirty Dudley’, which are now proudly displayed in Dudley’s Bar, including an incredible photo of The Lamb and Flag 99 years ago. Join us for real ale in one of Oxfordshire’s most historic public houses.

Authentic Thai and English Menu Authentic Thai Food Menu and Classic and Contemporary English Menu (All menus available on our website) The Perfect Sunday Roast from £8.95 - Authentic Thai Food Takeaway (Please note we offer a 10% discount off the menu prices for Thai take away) 1/2 Price Ladies Night - Every Monday Night Please note this is a 50% discount off the food bill, this does not include drinks or wine.

Senior Citizens 25% Discount - Every Wednesday and Thursday Lunchtime 25% off any 2 or 3 Course Lunch from 12noon to 3:00pm Please note this is a 25% discount off the food bill, this does not include drinks or wine.

01865 820208 www.lambandflaglongworth.co.uk

Come and have a walk around our garden displays to get ideas and inspiration We have handcrafted paving produced on site and also sandstone, travertine & limestone from all around the world Open to trade & retail • Now open 7 days

Tel: 01367 240112 www.rogersgardenstone.co.uk

CAR BODY REPAIRS V W RESTORATION

TEL 01367 243324 MOB 07918 660725 OPEN MON-SAT 8-6ISH jimers213@btconnect.com

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Out and About Date

Event

Venue

Time

Contact

Charge/info

Friday 1st

Cream teas and live music with Gof Smith

Portwell Angel

3pm

www.portwellangel.co.uk

£3.20

Friday 1st

Disclosure Unplugged: modern covers, classics and original music

Portwell Angel

Fri 1st

Comedy Night at The Portwell Cellar

Portwell Cellar

8.30pm

Curry with Cooper: magician, curry feast and actor Geoff Roffe as Tommy Cooper

Portwell Angel

9.3011.30am

Sat 2nd

Cotswold Voices in concert with Abbie Fidler

All Saints Church

Sat 2nd

NCT Sale

Faringdon Junior School

Sun 3rd

Folly Tower open

Folly Tower, Folly Hill

11am5pm

Sun 3rd

The 15 Minute Club

The Red Lion

8-11pm

Mon 4th

Faringdon Business Breakfast Club

Sudbury House Hotel

7.30am

Tues 5th

Quiz Night

The King and Queen, Longcot

8.30pm

Wed 6th

Annual Town Meeting

The Pump Rooms

7pm

Thurs 7th

Folk Session

The Swan, Park Road

Thurs 7th

Quiz night

Portwell Cellar

Fri 8th

Stafford Wright and Reynolds: live music

Portwell Angel

www.portwellangel.co.uk

Sat 9th

Giant Jumble Sale

Corn Exchange

01367 241753 or 01367 240130

Sun 10th

Visit a working mill at Coleshill

Coleshill Estate

Wed 13th

RNLI Faringdon Branch AGM and Social

Town Hall

Thurs 14th

Faringdon U3A AGM

Corn Exchange

2.30pm

Fri 15th

Jazz at Carswell Golf Club

Carswell Golf Club

8.30pm

Sat 16th

Craft Fayre, Easter Cake and Pie Sale

Corn Exchange

10am

Sun 17th

Live Music: The Rascals of Rhythm

The Lamb and Flag, Longworth

7.30pm

Mon 18th (Also 20th)

Easter Bingo

Corn Exchange

Doors 7pm

Eyes down 7.30pm. All welcome inc. children

In aid of African Children's Fund

Mon 18th

Tea Dance with Step in Time

Corn Exchange

2.30-4pm

Free Community Bus transfers call 242191

Free Refreshments by WI

Mon 18th

Ladies Night: Body Shop pampering

Portwell Cellar

8pm

Email portwellcellar@hotmail.co.uk

Tues 19th

Circus Skills Drop-in Workshop

Corn Exchange

11am3pm

Tues 19th

Indoor Market

Corn Exchange

6pm

Sat 2nd

www.portwellangel.co.uk Email portwellcellar@hotmail.co.uk

Entrance £2 - in aid of Help for Heroes

www.portwellangel.co.uk In support of the Mayor's Charity

10.1311.30am

www.nct.org.uk/faringdon

£1 admission, in aid of NCT Adults £2, under 16s 50p, under 11s free

www.15minuteclub.co.uk

Free

£10 for breakfast www.longcotkingandqueen. com

Teams and individuals welcome

8pm

Rachel@ ragaland.freeserve.co.uk

All welcome to play, sing or listen

8pm

Email portwellcellar@hotmail.co.uk

Adults £2.20, children £1.10, NT members free

2-5pm 7.30pm

In aid of several charities

denis.pope@talktalk.net

Presentation by RNLI CEO 2010 review, quiz and cream tea

www.oxfordlivejazz.com or 01367 718903 In aid of Save the Children

Free, all ages welcome

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Events in April Date

Event

Venue

Time

Contact

Sat 23rd

Easter Fancy Dress party

Portwell Cellar

8pm

Email portwellcellar@hotmail.co.uk

Sun 24th

Live Music: Add Hock

The Lamb and Flag, Longworth

7.30pm

Sun 24th

Open Folk Night

Portwell Angel

Folly Tower open

Folly Tower, Folly Hill

Tues 26th

Hustings Meeting

Corn Exchange

Fri 29th

Indoor Royal Wedding Street Party

The Lamb and Flag, Longworth

Fri 29th

Live Music: Gorgeous Moron

Portwell Angel

Mon 25th

Charge/info

Adults ÂŁ2, under 16s 50p, under 11s free

11am-5pm

All day

Free bouncy castle, free disco at 8pm www.portwellangel.co.uk

Fri 29th

Right Royal Boogie Me

Old Crown

Fri 29th

Royal Wedding celebrations

Portwell Cellar

1st Tues

Farmers' market

Market Place

All day

Every Wed

Health Walks

Leave from The Bell Hotel

10.30am

Every Fri

Country Market

Corn Exchange

9.15-11am

Every Sat

Faringdon Farcycles cycle ride

Leave from Market Place

9am

01367 241142

Every Sat

Supportive, informal parenting group

Faringdon Community College

1-3pm

Stella on 07963536568

Every Sun

Quiz Night

The Red Lion

8pm

01367 244585

Email portwellcellar@hotmail.co.uk Regular events 01367 710445

11-12 and 25-35 miles

Not on 6th Feb

Send details of your event to lou@bordengate.com or call Lou Guthrie on 01367 246130

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Tales of a wine road trip A souvenir of taste that is well remembered In September 2009 I was fortunate to be amongst a chosen few who participated in a wine road trip from Madrid to Barcelona as a guest of Spanish wine consortium Grupo Codorniu. Being a fan of the movie Sideways (a cult wine road trip movie based on the Californian wine regions), I was keen to check out what Spain had to offer.

Wednesday 11th May, 7.30pm We will guide you through the varied regions of Australia – discover a range of styles from our recent visit! £18.50 per person Private tasting sessions can be booked at your venue or ours and are suitable for: Team Building • Conferences • Birthdays Or an unusual night out with friends!

For more information: denboerwines@hotmail.com or call Donna Rogers on 01367 241169

One of the highlights of the itinerary was the winery and vineyards of Raimat. Established in 1914 in the dry inhospitable conditions of the Costers del Segre, Lleida, to the west of Barcelona, Raimat is today the largest family owned single vineyard in Europe. Raimat has been certified with sustainable viticulture as they aim to minimise the impact on the environment as well as the use and effects of artificial products and their resulting waste. They use modern winemaking techniques available through technological developments such as humidity sensors, canopy vigour maps as detected by GPS. On the back of a recent wine tasting held at the Portwell Angel, I would like to share with you a couple of star performers.

Raimat Gran Brut NV I first tasted this sparkling wine in the gardens of Raimat castle (as one does!) which is situated on the hill behind the winery. I was impressed at the time and am pleased to announce that this wine has just landed in the UK and shows just as well here as it does on its own turf. (I have this holiday wine theory where wine never tastes as good at home as it does away – but that’s a debate in itself!). Chardonnay and pinot noir make up the blend, grown entirely in Raimat’s vineyards. This sparkler comes under the banner of ‘Spanish sparkling wine’ as it is made outside the designated Cava zone, although produced via the ‘traditional method’ like Cava and its French equivalent, Champagne. It has very fine bubbles which rise continuously from the bottom of the glass. On approach, the aroma shows great complexity, ripe melon with white blossom overlaid with cream and brioche. The palate delivers citrus zest with limes dominating followed by stone fruit, blossom and melon. The texture is mouth-filling, with cream and brioche, giving way to a finish that is long and fresh with lingering lime zest.

Match with Easter lunch, as the acidity and freshness renders it as a great accompaniment to a whole host of flavours.

Available to purchase from the Portwell Angel for £22/bottle (£11.70+VAT off sales) Raimat Viña 43 Tempranillo 2007 2007 produced a summer that was hot and dry with cold nights, typical of the region’s continental climate. Such fluctuations in temperature range allowed the grapes to rest at night, giving the fruit greater intensity of flavour and structure. The result is a wine made from 100% tempranillo (the same variety used in the production of rioja), with intense aromas of ripe dark berry and cherry followed by smoke and the spice star anise. The palate is rich and full with forest fruits: bramble, blackberries with black cherries followed by aniseed and vanilla spice. It finishes medium in length with grainy tannins.

A great flavour enhancer to pan seared duck (tried and tested by yours truly), slow roasted Dexter beef (rich and gamey, available from Challow meats at the Farmer’s market 1st Tuesday of the month) or spaghetti and meatballs.

Available to purchase from the Portwell Angel for £17.60/bottle (£7.10+VAT off sales)

Reviews by Donna Rogers, Den Boer Wines

REVIEWS

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52 Project gives Prizes!

Faringdon was several days ahead of Hollywood in hosting an “Oscars” ceremony for a locally based tourism and arts project.

On 24th February local artists, writers and photographers gathered at the Portwell Angel to hear who had won the category prizes in the “52” project competition.

The competition invited local people to submit poems, artwork, photographs and prose for inclusion in 52 Things to Do – Far from the Madding Beaches, a new book due to be published this summer which will show off the beauties of the area as seen through the eyes of local people that love the Vale.

The book aims to inspire both local families and visitors to take advantage of the beautiful walks, exhilarating cycle rides, delightful villages and market towns, lovely visitor attractions and interesting history of the Vale.

Councillor Richard Webber of the Vale of White Horse District Council presented the prizes to the winners, who were chosen from among 400 entries submitted by over 70 individuals. The winning entries were praised by the project team for their fresh new outlook, their sense of place and their attention to detail. Choose Abingdon Partnership Manager Heather Brown introduced the shortlist of finalists and asked the audience to recognise the work put in by Vale officer Trudy Godfrey in securing European funding for the project. Other members of the project team include Nick Elwell, Oliver O’Dell, Wantage-based sculptor Dawn Benson and artist and designer Stuart Roper, who will be in control of the overall look and style of the final publication.

Councillor Webber, who describes himself as passionate about grass-roots arts projects, was keen to stress that even in difficult times, the council will support the arts wherever it can.

“This project combines the efforts of local arts enthusiasts with a drive to bring visitors to the area. It has been part-funded by the European Leader fund, and brings all of our market towns together with the rural areas to produce a publication that will be unique, strong and effective.”

Though the competition is now closed, it’s not too late to submit work for inclusion in the book.

Send your photo, poem, artwork or prose to: heather.brown@ chooseabingdon.co.uk for consideration by the 52 project team.

Local visitor attractions, gastro-pubs, gardens and beauty spots can be featured in professionally written advertorials that will maintain the overall quality of the production whilst providing local businesses with a chance to showcase themselves to readers.

To put forward your business or attraction to the team, email heather.brown@ chooseabingdon.co.uk or call 07768 177577.

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Restaurant Review The White Horse at Woolstone www.whitehorsewoolstone.co.uk 01367 820726 Having had great culinary experiences at the White Horse at Woolstone in the past, and following positive word of mouth referrals, I was keen to put the new management’s team to the test.

The White Horse prides itself on being one of Britain’s oldest inns, boasting cosy and quintessentially English period features: a thatched roof, oak beams and log fires. Set in the picturesque village of Woolstone, it is a handy watering hole or overnight stay for hikers, dog walkers and locals alike.

We stopped there one Saturday lunchtime and were warmly welcomed. Before long we were armed with drinks and eagerly perusing the list of appetising offerings. The menu ranged from starters and light bites to larger snacks, showing a great understanding of both smaller and larger eaters. The choice was plentiful: forest mushrooms on toast and potted brown shrimp with Cornish crab to minute cooked rib eye of beef and ‘sustainable fish and chips’.

A lunch deal on offer was soup and sandwich for £6.95. This included a bowl of the soup of the day and a half round of open toasted doorstep bread with fillings including cured Wiltshire ham with baby gherkins and mustard; grilled goat’s cheese, watercress and balsamic vinegar; dry cured smoked salmon with Cornish crab and green mayonnaise; and crispy curried lamb with korma mayonnaise, to name a few!

Also of interest was the selection of ‘boards’. Named ‘The Smokey’, ‘Everything Goat’s’ and ‘The Mezzi’, they consisted of flavours from smoked or cured meats to goat’s cheeses and all things Mediterranean, priced at £8.95-£9.95.

An extensive list of side dishes featured rustic fries, mixed salad, firecracker onion rings, spinach and potato mash, roasted vegetables, mixed olives with stuffed peppers and mixed breads with olive oil and vinegar for a reasonable £3 a piece. I was delighted that the Chef was keen to offer all menu options as half portions for children.

As I was at about 7/10 on the hunger scale, I opted for the minute cooked rib eye of beef, rustic fries, tomato sauce and watercress (£9.95). The steak was cut thinly and was delicate, easy to cut and succulent, providing a flavour that lingered long on the palate. The fries were crisp and tasty with the watercress adding freshness and greenery. Out of intrigue, we tried the firecracker onion rings, which proved to be a good move as they were crisp and crackly with that distinct onion flavour. Another meal consumed at our table was the apple, pork and cider sausages (£8.95), which were plump and rich with flavour. They were served on a bed of mustard and spinach mash with homemade gravy.

Once again we had no room for pudding, but I am certain that it would have delivered the same high standards as the main courses. Overall the White Horse at Woolstone provided us with an experience I would recommend and one I look forward to repeating!

Review by Donna Rogers, Den Boer Wines.

REVIEWS

10a Mill Street, Wantage, Oxon OX12 9AQ

01235 760000 www.philipdayhairdressing.co.uk

All our fast lines have moved into the cook shop at 11 London Street

Charney Pet Care Centre v Luxury Boarding for Dogs & Cats v Dog Day-care and Walking Service v Canine Activity Holidays v Dog Grooming v Pet Shop vn�

Stanford Road, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 8ET Tel: 01367 241063 www.charneykennels.co.uk

HAIRDRESSING

Cutting Colouring Hair Extensions Beauty Eyelash Extensions

Philip Day

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Free* Home Delivery now available *for orders over ÂŁ20 at your independently owned local store

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The continuing story of …

The Parapet and The Poison Chalice addled and kept on muttering about weddings. They started looking through the Bills. Interestingly, the High Sheriff had said that there were two outstanding Bills – but the Focal Angels could not find either of the two Bills that the High Sheriff talked about. Clearly, the Bills were the Who cares! The Daringfonians are an upbeat bunch who offspring of the Nomads and had not been properly raised. don’t much do spooky things. “Play it straight and play it simple” should be their motto. Despite receiving So it became clear: contrary to the old saying (or indeed, the outrageous demands from the High Sheriff of the Westside needs of any self respecting duck), no Bills would be better Story, acting on behalf of the nomads, the Focal Angels’ than some Bills when it came to organising the town party. spirits were high. Indeed, such is the confusion in the High Sheriff’s camp - with contradictory information pertaining to In the absence of Bills, there is a fighting chance that enough the serious legal issues raised by the camp sheriff - that no other Daringfonians might join together to continue the annual party but this, it seems, depends greatly on the more bad news has been forthcoming for over 30 nights. generosity of others and is, at the end of the day when the But now is not a time to rest. The season of long days is upon sun sets and the moon rises over the fields, up to the people the town and all within the town’s stockade must decide on of Daringfon. whether or not the Annual Party should continue.

And that is where we Permissions have been granted. must leave our this Someone once writ: “Where there’s a Will there’s a way.” Daringfonians So the Daringfonians set about trying to identify the next month - on the verge Will who might take the lead in organising (or at least of something great, if helping to organise) the Town Party. The people worked only the wheel of through the Wills but found only a few old testaments. They fortune is properly moved onto the Williams but the best known seemed oiled.

So the sun set and the moon rose over the fields in Daringfon. The silence was awesome. The trees cast shadows over shadows and the graveyard waited patiently: but for whom?

Are you looking for office space in Faringdon?

OFFICES TO RENT IN FARINGDON MARKET PLACE

Faringdon Town Centre Offices Available to include: Ÿ Utilities (excluding phone calls) Ÿ Internet Ÿ Fax Ÿ Cleaning Ÿ Tea & Coffee Ÿ Fully Furnished Ÿ Secure Parking Area Ÿ Meeting Rooms available nearby

Rooms will accommodate up to four desks with phones and internet connections.

Cost of rental is £350 + £50 per desk per calendar month. One month rent is payable as a deposit + one month rent in advance.

For more information please contact Nick Elwell or Jane Haynes on 01367 246130 or email jane.haynes@bordengate.com

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We all have busy lives, and keeping your home or business clean and tidy can be a time consuming and unwelcome burden. Maybe you feel life is all work and there’s not enough time for your family and friends, or you long to spend more time enjoying hobbies, exercising or relaxing. Or perhaps you know someone who simply cannot manage the housework any longer due to their increasing years, illness or because they care for someone else full time.

Many of us resist the idea of help with our housework because we feel it is too pricey and therefore an indulgent treat only. The good news is that help with your cleaning is actually more affordable and commonplace than you think.

JPN Cleaning is a well-established cleaning company and we commit to carry out your domestic chores just as you would like, when you choose, whatever your circumstances. We have local, friendly staff who care about helping you and giving you great service. That’s why many of our customers, young and old alike, have been using our cleaning services for many years.

Before you begin using our services we will come to your home or business to meet you and discuss exactly what you need, and then we will provide you with a free, no-obligation quote. So get in touch, and see how we can help to take the stress out of your week, by taking on your cleaning and giving you back some of the extra time you deserve.

Tel: 01285 657210 or 01242 790299

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Experts - local services D.G. Joinery City & Guilds qualified carpenter and joiner.

All Carpentry work undertaken Specialist in fitted wardrobes • Kitchen installations Bookcases • Bespoke joinery - including stairs All exterior carpentry including decking, sheds etc.

Any building alterations including guttering etc.

Free Quotations Telephone: 07831 680440 ASTON PINE STRIPPING Caustic and non-caustic stripping of all woods & metals.

Established for over 15 years - Water Board Approved

ASTON PINE ANTIQUES Stockists of English and Continental pine furniture, as well as many other antiques - 8,000+ sq.ft of showrooms

Oxford Architectural Antiques Large stock of period fireplaces, doors, panelling, sanitary ware & garden items.

Architectural salvage sourcing service available.

16-18 London Road, Faringdon, Oxfordshire Tel: 01367 242268

DOG HOLIDAYS Home from home while you’re away!

Daily walks Freedom to play 5 acres of safely fenced fields Lots of TLC Council approved and registered

07817155132 01993 837605 Black Bourton

You could fill this space!

Oven Cleaning Service Not only do we clean ovens, we can also clean: Grills, Hobs, Stoves, Extractor Hoods, BBQ’s,WoodBurners, Fireplaces, Agas, Rayburns & Microwaves (oven racks/shelves included in price) All work undertaken carried out to a high standard & only good quality cleaning materials used.

Interested?

Call Lou on 01367 246130 NOW! MTS FENCING Domestic & Commercial Specialising in Closeboard We take pride in quality workmanship & reliability at a fair price

CONTACT MATTHEW 07866 792222 Free Quotations All work and materials guaranteed

Please contact Daniel on 07584 190271 for a reasonable quote.

A local-run company focusing on personalised care services.

Your Local Carpenter

High standard of care Individually tailored care plans Your own regular care worker

All aspects of Timber Work & Building Maintenance

My Carer Tel: 01367 718413 www.mycareroxfordshire.co.uk

07581 171815 COMPUTER SUPPORT Bespoke Affordable IT Solutions • Computer healthchecks, repairs and updates • Network Setup • Data Recovery & Backup • IT Consultation

0845 467 5087 support@quidne-it.com • www.quidne-it.com

Acoustic/Electric Beginners Welcome

01367 242740

Short/Long Distances Business Accounts Driver Hire 4/7 Seaters

Corporate Service Courier Service Executive Cars Insured Cars

Enquiries@faringdoncars.co.uk www.faringdoncars.co.uk

Want to be seen? To advertise call Lou on 01367 246130

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Experts - local services Carswell Clubhouse Sunday Carvery 2 Courses and Coffee £11.95

Bed and Breakfast Private Parties

Tel: 01367 870909

The Music Gallery Independent music retailer 8 Newbury Street Wantage, Oxon OX12 8BS 01235 770353 themusicgallery@hotmail.co.uk

TOM FOY Repairs & Servicing of Washing Machines, Cookers and Driers Fully Guaranteed

Tel: 01793 766397 or 01367 252701 (Lechlade)

MAKE LIGHT WORK OF YOUR BOOK WORK! Working with sole traders to medium sized organisations Available for short/long term • Competitive rates Excellent references • Efficient, friendly and reliable BOOKKEEPING

ACCOUNTS

SECRETARIAL

PAYROLL & CIS

VAT RETURNS

SAGE LINE 50

MikePerks Perks Mike Greenwood Pest Management Ltd 13 Gloucester Street • Faringdon • Oxfordshire • SN7 7JA T: 01367 241120 • M: 07513 000390 E: info@greenwood.uk.net • W: www.greenwood.uk.net

Telephone Sally: 07807 526292

Painter & Decorator

Duncan Clark Free Estimates Duncan Clarke painting

Emma Palmer 07531 946141

01793 766829

Nail Technician and Beauty Therapist Faringdon, Oxfordshire

Your local electricians Domestic-Commercial-Industrial Faringdon

Tel: 01367 240308

Want your business to be SEEN in the Advertiser?

Call Lou on 01367 246130 to find out how!

Road Closures 2011 Due to Faringdon Arts Festival, the following roads will be closed between:

July 8th 16:00-23:45 July 9th 9:00-23:45 July 10th 9:00-18:00 Church Street & Market Place

Advertise your services and be seen! Call Lou on 01367 246130

The Advertiser is produced by The Proof Fairy (www.theprooffairy.com) and published by Focus on Faringdon CIC, Portwell House, Market Place, Faringdon SN7 7HU. Tel: 01367 246130. All artwork designed by us is the copyright of Focus on Faringdon CIC and must not be used by or in any other publication, in whatsoever format, without our prior written consent. No part of this publication, whether advert, pictures or text, may be reproduced in any format whatsoever without the prior written consent of Focus on Faringdon CIC. The information published in the advertisements and other articles is supplied and approved by advertisers. Focus on Faringdon CIC does not verify or ratify any claims made in such advertisements or text, nor does it accept any claims or liability arising from contact with or use of services advertised. Every effort is made to ensure the accurate reproduction of information supplied by advertisers in their advertisements or other text submitted. Any inaccuracies must be notified to the publisher immediately following the first insertion so that amendments may be made for subsequent issues. The Publisher does not accept responsibility or liability for claims arising for inaccuracies published in advertisements where the advertiser has not advised Focus on Faringdon CIC prior to publication.

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All Change at the Chamber Paul Brame took over as the President/Chairman of the Faringdon The new committee is very keen to get a constructive dialogue Chamber of Commerce at their AGM on 14th March. This followed going with its members and other organisations in the town with the resignation of Nick Elwell, who has fulfilled this role for the last a similar vision. Paul summarised that “this Chamber is not going four years. Paul’s first act as President was to thank Mr Elwell for to be a talking shop; we are going to get out there and engage with his untiring efforts over that time and present him with a small gift whoever wants to listen.” Given the uncertainty of which as a token of thanks, adding that Nick will be “a very tough act to supermarket operator is likely to come to the town is about to be follow”. Paul is a commercial property solicitor with regional firm resolved, Paul added that “these are exciting times for the town Morgan Cole and many will know Paul through his work with the and its business owners and business people”.

Faringdon Business Breakfast Club which now regularly attracts up The Chamber meeting mentioned above is at 6.30pm on Tuesday to forty local businesses to their monthly meetings.

12th April.

John Davis, who has been the Chamber Treasurer for many years, also stood down at the AGM and was recognised and thanked for his involvement. John was replaced by Sarah Allen-Stevens of local landlord and developer, Wicklesham Commercial Properties. Paul’s previous role as Vice- President was taken by Rachel Goddard from Goddard & Sons, the kitchen designers and installers. Goddard and Sons opened a new showroom in Faringdon last year.

With the new committee now in place, Paul has already stated his intention to carry on supporting many of the projects that have been initiated by his predecessors and are currently being carried out under the Focus On Faringdon Community Interest Company.

In doing so, Paul also hopes to clear up any confusion that may remain about who is driving forward which initiative. With that in mind, the next meeting of the Chamber, to be held at Goddard and Sons’ showroom in Regal Way, will be an open meeting where anyone – existing members or those wishing to find out more – can attend and contribute to the future direction of the Faringdon Chamber.

Left to right: Rachel Goddard, Sarah Allen-Stevens, Paul Brame, John Davis and Nick Elwell

SK8 For twenty years this group have been campaigning for a skate park in Faringdon. There has been a succession of amazingly dedicated committees who have suggested many sites, including the Willes Close Triangle and the Youth Centre, only to find their plans floundered on planning constraints. As part of the Bloor Homes development, outline planning permission was finally granted in 2006 for a site within Folly Park at the bottom of Stanford Road, along with the cricket club pavilion/pitch and rugby pitch.

SK8 were extremely surprised to find recently that Faringdon Cricket Club seemed shocked that the skate park was on this site; the skate park has always been on the drawing and indeed was on the amended drawings in June 2010 when the pavilion was resited. Faringdon Cricket Club has several concerns about the skate park and SK8 are looking to address them, where possible, and hope to work together and become good neighbours.

The town has waited a very long time and SK8 plan to make the facility amazing. They have raised just over £100k which allows for a larger park to be built. There will be a public meeting at the Youth Centre on Friday 8th April from 6pm to help SK8 design the park. The meeting will be followed by music from local band Disclosure. If you are not able to get to the meeting but would like to support SK8 and their plans for a larger park then please drop in to the sweet shop on Marlborough Street and sign the support sheet.

For more information please contact Ruth Mitchell on 01367 242613

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The Birds and the Bees!

26 Market Place • Faringdon Oxfordshire SN7 7HU E: portwellangel@googlemail.com

What’s happening in April Friday 1st (from 3pm)

Tea Dance with Gof Smith - home made scones, as much tea as you can drink and music from Gof - all for £3.20!

Friday 1st

Disclosure Unplugged - Electro acoustic covers, classics and original tunes

Andrena Fulva It’s that time of year again! The male birds are busy chasing each other around the garden, competing for dominance and prized females, most of whom look totally uninterested.

Twig and moss gathering for the annual nesting festival is taking place, combined with an increase in dawn chorus volume each morning, ”Spring has Sprung”.

This year, however, we have new visitors in our garden.

Numerous small volcanic mounds have appeared between the patio slabs - initially we thought it to be ants, but on closer inspection each mound has a perfectly formed hole in the centre. As the temperature warms during the day, small ginger bees emerge from the mounds, flying off to do whatever bees do.

It seems we have forty or so Tawny Mining Bees as lodgers.

They are a solitary bee; each female digs a hole to provide a safe nesting place to lay eggs. Numerous cells branch off from the tunnels, where she will collect and store pollen and nectar. She lays one egg in each cell; this will hatch within a few days, pollen and nectar providing food until the following spring, when the baby buzzer will pop out and start the process all over again. The male bee is much smaller and less colourful and, apart from the mating process, they take no part in nest building or providing food for the offspring. (Not just us then, lads!)

These little fellows are quite harmless - their sting is not strong enough to penetrate human skin.

For those keen gardeners amongst you who take pride in your lawns, don’t worry - the mounds will disappear after a few weeks and they are useful pollinators in the garden.

C. Row.

Saturday 2nd Curry with Cooper - Magical entertainment with the Welsh Wizard John Williams, enjoy a curry and then relax with actor Geoff Roffe’s rendition of the late great Tommy Cooper.

Booking essential, £15 per person.

Sunday 3rd

Mothering Sunday - bring your mum in for a drink or two, just to show her you love her!

Friday 8th

Stafford, Wright & Reynolds provide a sapid cocktail of folk, blues, country and rock.

Sunday 27th

Open Folk Night - An unformatted, open “folk music and other stuff” session - and as the last Sunday in April is Easter Sunday and we don’t have to get up for work the next day we can run a longer, larger, later session - if you’re up for it!

Friday 29th

Gorgeous Moron are good to listen to, good to dance to and good to continue the Royal Wedding celebrations to!

Monthly Business Lunch: see www.portwellangel.co.uk Monthly Business Coffee: see www.portwellangel.co.uk Tuesday nights: 30% off any cocktails purchased by “the girls” Wednesday nights: A half price platter when bought with any bottle of wine from our extensive list Thursdays & Fridays: Free canapes with all drinks between 5pm and 7pm

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