February 2011 Advertiser

The

| The Advertiser | page 1 |

| February 2011 |

Advertiser

Inside this month: Dinner at the Portwell Angel A Pheasant Story Music Review And more …

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

Promoting local business, trade and services. Advertise from just £9.95 per month!

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The

| February 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

(Clanfield) 01367 810457

“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 11/10

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Business Update The Science Vale UK area is already one of the most successful science hotspots in the country with 13 per cent of research and development employment in the South East and four per cent in England. One third of the area’s population works at the three major sites. Faringdon Chamber of Commerce welcomed Steve Moss to their December meeting to talk about Science Vale. This is an informal group of eight organisations that includes Oxfordshire County Council; the Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Councils; Harwell Science &Innovation Campus; UK Atomic Energy Authority; Rutherford Appleton Laboratories; MEPC (Milton Park) and the Regional Development Agency. This large group is keen to engage with local businesses and progressively include Faringdon businesses in its events.

Faringdon Chamber of Commerce member Andy Banks of the Red Lion is moving on to pastures new. We would like to thank him for his support of Faringdon during his time in the town and we wish him good luck for the future. Also moving on are Adrian and Sarah of the Old Crown Coaching Inn; our good wishes go with them. Other Chamber members making the news … Faringdon Golf Course has been voted the third best par three course in the country by Today’s Golfer …

Congratulations go to Geoff and his team. Bordengate Insurance has successfully completed their move across the Market Place to their newly refurbished home in Portwell House. This long established company is just about to complete a re-branding exercise and will soon be trading under the new name of BGi. If you would like to find out more about Faringdon Chamber of Commerce or become a member, please contact Chamber Secretary Jane Haynes by phone on 01367 246130 or by email at jane.haynes@bordengate.com Faringdon Business Breakfast Club (FBBC) kicked off 2011 to a flying start when over 30 local business people met at Sudbury House Hotel on Monday 10th January for its monthly networking event. After a hearty breakfast and an introduction from Club Chairman Paul Brame, each delegate spoke for 60 seconds on their business and what kind of referral they were looking for. Paul, as usual, presented his 60 seconds in rhyming couplets which always entertains!!

Cover image: Heart No. 7 by Gareth Nutter Gareth paints sporadically, when his time is not otherwise being spent playing guitar, earning a crust or sleeping.

Recently Gareth has concentrated on hearts as a theme but he is just as likely to draw inspiration from Vieira da Silva, Jackson Pollock or Mark Rothko as well as his everyday surroundings. Gareth has lived in Faringdon since 1998 and is quite happy for this to remain the case for the foreseeable future. If you would like to view other work by this artist, please email him at garethn75@googlemail.com

After the 60 second round, Tim Lowe, Chartered Financial Planner with St. James's Place Wealth Management, took on the Guest Speaker slot with his Top Ten Tips for Investment, which was well received and prompted enthusiastic questions from the audience. FBBC’s next meeting will be on Monday 7th February when the speaker will be Ann Griffiths, the personal development coach. If you'd like to join us, please call the booking line on 0845 003 1340 or email paul.brame@morgancole.com to book your place.

Faringdon Youth Centre has been advised that its local government funding is to cease. Focus on Faringdon CIC is working closely with individuals in the continuing operation of the centre.

“Shaping Faringdon” – Have Your Say... On February 17th the Vale of White Horse District Council are hosting an event at Sudbury House Hotel from 18:00 – 20:00. Everyone is invited to come along and have their say about the priorities for Faringdon over the next ten years and how we can achieve them. If you would like to attend this event please contact economic.development@southandvale.gov.uk

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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

Free* Home Delivery now available *for orders over £20 at your independently owned local store

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New Lifestyle & Mobility Shop for Faringdon

4A LONDON STREET, FARINGDON

The town centre increased its collection of independent specialist shops in December when Faringdon Lifestyle and Mobility opened up in London Street. The shop, owned and managed by Didcot-based Jane Cree with help from her husband Nick, stocks a huge range of products that will help make life a little easier.

Chairs • Rise / Recliners Adjustable Beds Bathlifts • Shower Chairs Commodes & Toilet Frames Walkers & Wheelchairs Backcare • Everyday Living Aids

Jane spent months looking for suitable premises before coming across the old County Cleaners shop in London Street. It was perfect for Jane as it has no steps, a wide front door and accessible parking close by.

Visitors to the shop will be impressed by the range of items on display, which includes everything from slippers and walking sticks to wheelchairs, beds and chair lifts.

Jane also tries to stock products to suit all budgets so, for example, she can supply budget wheelchairs through to more deluxe models.

The shop is open Monday to Friday from 9am-4.30pm and Saturday from 9am to 4pm and Jane is more than happy to answer questions and help people find the products that are right for them. You can also call Jane on 01367 240717.

THE BARBER SHOP 6 Cornmarket, Faringdon DAWN’S OPENING HOURS Tues Weds Thurs Fri Sat Open

9.00 - 5.15 9.00 - 5.15 9.00 - 7.00 9.00 - 6.00 8.30 - 1.00 Lunchtimes

01367 244611

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Out and About in Faringdon Faringdon Dramatic Society (Affiliated to NODA and ODN) presents

DICK WHITTINGTON, a pantomime by Alan Frayn Directed by Karen Whiffen Friday 4th February - 7.30 pm • Saturday 5th February – Matinee 2.30 pm, Evening 7.30 pm Faringdon Junior School Hall, Gloucester Street, Faringdon (Parking at Gloucester Street Car Park – turn left past Library) Dick, a poor boy from a poor family, sets out for London to make his fortune, accompanied by his cat. At first he doesn’t seem to be getting anywhere, and is tempted to return home.

However on his way out of the city, climbing Highgate Hill he hears the Bow Bells of London ringing, and believes they are sending him a message.

Tickets will be £8 for Adults and £6 for Concessions available from The Nut Tree, Cornmarket, Faringdon, or use our on-line Box Office at www.faringdondramatic.org.uk for advance bookings.

Tickets will also be available on the door. Telephone enquiries – Fiona 01367 242967

Coming soon from Faringdon Dramatic Society The Odd Couple (Female Version)

By Neil Simon, Directed by Marianna Raho This most famous of Simon's plays tells the story of two 40-something friends who suddenly find themselves single and sharing an apartment on the upper Westside of Manhattan. ODD COUPLE is a classic situation comedy of friends who become mis-matched room mates and it’s a toss-up to see who will survive!

We are looking for 2 female leads to play Olive Madison and Florence Unger and 6 supporting cast members to play their friends and their two charming Spanish gents who live upstairs. If you are interested in auditioning please join us for a read-through of the show - character breakdowns and audition pieces will be provided on Monday 14th Feb. New members are always welcome!

Read through – Monday 14th February, 2011 from 8pm to 9pm at United Church, Coxwell Road Roundabout, Faringdon.

(Limited parking behind the church) Auditions - Thursday 17th February, 2011 from 7.30pm to 10pm at United Church (as above) www.faringdondramatic.org.uk

U3A: The University of the Third Age

Faringdon & District U3A Thursday 10th February 2011 2.30pm ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH, FARINGDON Timothy Walker, Director of Oxford University Botanical Gardens, will talk on the history and botany of the garden’s first 100 years.

Further information from Ian Clarkson (Chairman) 01793 782836 or visit www.FaringdonU3A.org.uk PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE

Telephone enquiries – Fiona 01367 242967

The Big Gig

Featuring Kiff and The Brickwork Lizards Saturday 12th February 7.30pm till 11.30pm Faringdon Junior School (in the hall) Come along to a musical fundraiser for Faringdon Pre School, Infant School and Junior School.

Tickets available from The Nut Tree or by calling 01367 242922. £5 in advance, £6 on the door or £4.50 for groups of 10+

A great night of live music to support our local schools

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Events in February Date

Event

Venue

Time

Contact

Charge/info

Tues 1st Thurs 3rd

Farmers' Market Give Blood!

Market Place Bowls Club

Fri 4th Fri 4th

Dick Whittington Caribbean & Reggae Night

Faringdon Junior School The Red Lion

All day 1.15-3.30pm & 4.15-7.15pm 7.30pm From 9pm

01367 710445 www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23 Fiona 01367 242967 01367 244585

8-12 stalls New donors welcome! £8 adults, £6 conc

Sat 5th

Tennis Club Quiz Night

The Portwell Angel

Sat 5th

Dick Whittington

Faringdon Junior School

Sat 5th

A celebration for Candlemas by Voice

Sun 6th Thurs 10th

Authentic food, cocktails & loud shirts!

www.portwellangel.co.uk

Everyone welcome

2.30pm & 7.30pm

Fiona 01367 242967

£8 adults, £6 conc

All Saints Church

7.30pm

Julia on 01367 240670 julia@theburns.name

The 15 Minute Club

The Red Lion

8-11pm

U3A talk: History of Oxford University Botanical Gardens

All Saints Church

2.30pm

The Old Crown Coaching Inn

From 8pm

Faringdon Junior School

7.30-11.30pm

The Portwell Angel The Portwell Angel The Portwell Angel

From 7.30pm

Faringdon Dramatic Society read through of The Odd Couple (all-female)

United Church, Coxwell Rd

8-9pm

Fiona 01367 242967

Thurs 17th

Time for Change? A public meeting exploring Faringdon's future

6-8pm Sudbury House Hotel

economic.development @southandvale.gov.uk

Thurs 17th

Faringdon Dramatic Society auditions for The Odd Couple (all-female)

United Church, Coxwell Rd

7.30-10pm

Fiona 01367 242967

Fri 18th

Nick Gill: live music Mew Wooster Boon: live music Folk singaround

Fri 11th Sat 12th Sat 12th Sun 13th Mon 14th Mon 14th

Sat 26th Sun 27th 1st Tues Every Wed Every Fri Every Sat Every Sat

The Circus: live music The Big Gig feat. Kiff and the Brickwork Lizards Gof Smith: live music Reg Eyles: live music St Valentine's Dinner

Farmers' market

07714 218825 Ian Clarkson 01793 782836 www.FaringdonU3A.org. uk

Free £5 in adv, £6 on door, 01367 242922 £4.50 group 10+ www.portwellangel.co.uk Free www.portwellangel.co.uk Free www.portwellangel.co.uk £45 per couple

The Portwell Angel

www.portwellangel.co.uk

The Red Lion

01367 244585

The Portwell Angel Regular events Market Place All day

Health Walks

Leave from The Bell Hotel

10.30am

Country Market Faringdon Farcycles cycle ride Supportive, informal parenting group

Catholic Church Hall

9.15-11am

Leave from Market Place

9am

Faringdon Community College

1-3pm

£8, £5 conc In aid of Christian Aid Free

All welcome

£8.50

www.portwellangel.co.uk

01367 710445

01367 241142

11-12 and 25-35 miles

Stella on 07963536568

Every details of your event to lou@bordengate.com or call Lou Guthrie on 01367 246130 Send Quiz Night The Red Lion 8pm 01367 244585 Not on 6th Feb Sun

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Save Our Youth Centre!

Charney Pet Care Centre vLuxury Boarding for Dogs & Cats vDog Day-care and Walking Service vCanine Activity Holidays vDog Grooming vPet Shop Special “off season” Offer 20% Discount for 2 dogs from the same household in boarding Feb/March 2011 Stanford Road, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 8ET Tel: 01367 241063 www.charneykennels.co.uk

PR/Marketing Assistant We are looking to appoint a skilled PR and Marketing Assistant who must be a self-motivated individual with excellent IT and communication skills.

There was shocking news for Faringdon’s young people with the announcement that County Council funding of the youth centre in Highworth Road will soon stop.

Faringdon Young People’s Centre – aka FAZE - opened in 2010 after a £250,000 makeover. FAZE opens on Tuesday and Friday evenings and offers youngsters a wide range of activities including fashion swaps, music nights, creative sessions and Wii dance parties. It also opens up for other special occasions, and holds events such as job shops, offering careers advice to young people.

While cuts in funding are understandable given the current economic climate, it’s clear that FAZE provides a much needed service to the teen community in Faringdon. The provision of the Youth Service is also believed to have a positive effect on the town centre as the number of youths hanging around town “with nothing much to do” is reduced.

A recent public meeting saw a wide cross section of the community take the time to discuss the possible options for the future of the Youth Centre. The outcome was that some openminded thinking could bring about ways that the centre could be funded, perhaps as a business rather than a charitable cause.

The cost of continuing the current range of services is estimated at £1,000 per week so some proactive and imaginative fundraising activities will have to be a regular feature to secure the Centre’s future. The Town Council has already suggested they would like to help, as has the Police; Lord Faringdon has offered to assist by underwriting the project for the first couple of years. The Advertiser’s publisher, Focus on Faringdon CIC is happy to be involved, and support from the local community will also be a great help.

The best way to save the Youth Centre is for the building and land to be purchased – and funds may be available from the County Council and other charitable sources. The premises have a commercial value and there may be other opportunities to use the land; for example, the Scouts are looking for a new home and there are a number of other groups who would be able to use (and contribute towards the cost of) the premises.

The successful applicant will have worked within a PR/Marketing environment and have experience of dealing with the Press. This candidate will also have copywriting skills and speak a foreign language, preferably German or Dutch. This role will include the maintenance of websites, internet research and will report to the Marketing Manager.

Although a graduate with a marketing or PR subject would be advantageous, this role is a development position and all relevant experience will be taken into account.

It might not be easy – but we have an opportunity here to build for the future - an opportunity that we should not ignore.

Candidates must reside within 35 minutes of the office.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team

Offering:

Ariat Europe operates a non smoking environment policy

Applications in writing with CV to: Phil Duff – Managing Director Ariat Europe Limited 1 Radcot Estate, Park Road, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 8LA phil.duff@ariat.com www.ariat-europe.com

Turnstones Building Landscaping, Fences, Turfing, Patios, Driveways, Garden walls, Roofs, Repairs, Renovation & Maintenance

Tel: 01367 243 217 Mob: 07951 20 30 31

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HOMELAND GARDEN MACHINES LTD

AGENTS FOR: OLEOMAC, EFCO, AL-KO, BRIGGS & STRATTON, LAWNFLITE, CLUB CADET, JONSERED, ECHO, PARTNER,

Frenchies Emma Palmer hopes to bring some glamour to Faringdon with the launch of her mobile beauty therapy business, Frenchies.

Emma, who is just 20, has lived in Faringdon all her life.

She trained at Witney’s International School of Beauty where she gained her CIBTAC qualifications, and then spent three years working at a reputable spa and salon.

Frenchies offers several beauty therapies including manicures, pedicures, waxing, tinting and Bio Sculpture nail treatment. This is a one component gel that strengthens and promotes the growth of natural healthy nails.

When dry, the gel has a glossy finish and nails can be left clear, coloured or given a French polish.

To find out more about the range of treatments available from Frenchies, call Emma

Cutting Colouring Hair Extensions Beauty Eyelash Extensions 10a Mill Street, Wantage, Oxon OX12 9AQ

01235 760000 www.philipdayhairdressing.co.uk

Philip Day

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the organic way pure ~ honest ~ beautiful

pure me, 6a london street, faringdon sn7 7aa 01367 244558 www.pure-me.co.uk

Stylers OF

LONDON STREET

Hair and Beauty Treatments Gift Vouchers Available

Join our Loyalty Card Scheme

2 London Street, Faringdon 01367 240249

The Story Behind Valentine’s Day! On 14 February we celebrate Saint Valentine’s Day, usually by way of exchanging cards, sweets, lingerie, flowers or jewellery. But what exactly are we celebrating? Is it just a holiday the retail stores invented to get our money? No - we are actually celebrating a Christian Holiday, Saint Valentine’s.

The legend of the celebration of Valentine’s Day is this: During the 3rd century a priest by the name of Valentine, under Claudius II in Rome, secretly disobeyed the law. Claudius had come to believe that a single soldier was a better soldier than a married young man and so decided to outlaw marriage in order to have plenty of young strong unmarried men at his disposal.

Valentine, the priest, did not obey this law and continued to oversee the marriages of young couples in secrecy – until he was caught and sent to his death.

No one is even sure if 14 February was the day of his birth or his death or if it had indeed anything to do with Saint Valentine at all.

The only thing we do know for sure is that on 14th February the Romans had a springtime tradition called the Love Lottery where young men and women were coupled for one year, often leading to marriage.

Whether or not the story of St Valentine is true, we wish you a very happy Valentine’s Day, with lots of lasting love and friendship!

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Faringdon Golf Course Ranked 3rd best Par 3 Course in the UK by Today’s Golfer Magazine Faringdon Golf Course was delighted to be ranked as the 3rd best Par 3 golf course in the country by Today’s Golfer magazine. The course offers both 7 and 5 Day Adult and Junior Memberships, but is primarily a pay and play course which is privately owned by PGA Professional Geoff Robbins and his wife.

Faringdon Golf Course is a friendly and informal golf club that welcomes players of all ages and abilities. The course really has to be played to be appreciated. It’s set in beautiful wooded parkland and is maintained to an exceptionally high standard - in particular the greens, which are all watered by an automatic irrigation system. It’s an enjoyable course for a beginner to try out, and also represents an excellent challenge for the more experienced player, or those players wanting to perfect their short game. In a round of golf 60-70% of your shots come from 100yds and less. The quickest way to improve your score is to develop all aspects of your short game, so each hole at Faringdon Golf Course will give your short game a great challenge.

When Tiger Woods won 3 major golf championships with record low scoring, he had spent 70% of his practise time on his short game from 100yds and less. The short game is an area that many golfers neglect but hugely important to your success on your scorecard!

Of the ranking, Geoff Robbins said: “I am delighted that Faringdon Golf Course has received this recognition.

The course has always been regarded as one of the best 9 hole par 3 courses in the county and area, but now has national recognition, which is fantastic. I have owned the course for 11 years and it has always been my aim to create a totally family friendly course that welcomes all age groups and abilities. However, I also wanted to create a unique course maintained to the highest possible standards that offers all abilities a great challenge, whether the player is new to the game, or already well established. I am looking forward to the new golfing season ahead and to welcoming our regular players, and I hope to see some new faces too.”

This spring Faringdon Golf Course is offering an amazing deal play unlimited daily golf for just £10 per person for an adult and £8 per person for juniors/students and seniors. This is a great economical way to entertain the children, or why not spend a relaxing day with friends playing the course. The modern clubhouse offers light snacks throughout the day.

For those players wanting to improve their game Geoff Robbins is renowned as a highly qualified and experienced golf coach. Geoff has had tremendous success in coaching; many of his pupils have become Top Class Amateur Players, PGA Professionals and Tour Players, not forgetting all the pupils that enjoy successful club golf. Geoff offers 1-2-1 tuition, group coaching and golf clinics for adults and juniors.

Faringdon Golf Course is located on the edge of Faringdon in the village of Great Coxwell (just off the A420 Swindon to Oxford road) and is well worth a trip.

Call 01367 243944 for more information or visit www.faringdongolfcourse.co.uk.

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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 241162 or email jane.haynes@bordengate.com

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Do I need Planning Permission for my Extension?

The answer is - maybe not!

If you are thinking of extending your house this may come under permitted development, not requiring planning permission.

Many people are not aware that a new set of limits came into force on the 1st October 2008 which allows more freedom in terms of what is possible when extending your home. An extension to your house is permitted as long as:

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

Swedish Customer Service Specialist --- office based ---We are looking to appoint a self-motivated individual who must be IT literate with excellent communication skills.

The successful applicant will have Swedish, Danish or Norwegian as their first language and be ready to help drive and support our sales effort across Scandinavia.

Candidates must reside within 35 minutes of the office.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team 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

Ÿ No more than half the area of land around the “original house”* would be covered by additions or other buildings. Ÿ No extension forward of the principal elevation or side elevation fronting a highway. Ÿ No extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof. Ÿ Maximum depth of a single-storey rear extension of three metres beyond the rear wall for an attached house and four metres beyond the rear wall for a detached house. Ÿ Maximum height of a single-storey rear extension of four metres. Ÿ Maximum depth of a rear extension of more than one storey of three metres beyond the rear wall including ground floor. Ÿ Maximum eaves height of an extension within two metres of the boundary of three metres. Ÿ Maximum eaves and ridge height of extension no higher than existing house. Ÿ Side extensions to be single storey with maximum height of four metres and width no more than half that of the original house. Ÿ Two-storey extensions no closer than seven metres to rear boundary. Ÿ Roof pitch of extensions higher than one storey to match Ÿ existing house. Ÿ Materials to be similar in appearance to the existing house. Ÿ No verandas, balconies or raised platforms. Ÿ Upper-floor, side-facing windows to be obscure-glazed; any opening to be 1.7m above the floor. Ÿ On designated land+ no permitted development for rear Ÿ extensions of more than one storey. On designated land no cladding of the exterior. Ÿ On designated land no side extensions. * The term "original house" means the house as it was first built or as it stood on 1 July 1948 (if it was built before that date).

Although you may not have built an extension to the house, a previous owner may have done so. + Designated

land includes national parks and the Broads, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, conservation areas and World Heritage Sites. Permitted development does not apply to listed buildings.

Planning Portal is the UK Government's online planning resource.

More details can be found on: www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/house If you need a larger extension or it does not comply with the above, you will need planning permission, and perhaps the involvement of an architect.

For more information call Weaver Khan Architects on 01367 244971 or email info@wkarchitects.co.uk .

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Thursday 24th February, 7.30pm Try reds boasting regional characters that have made them famous! £18.50 per person

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

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

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Experts - local services 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

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.

Please contact Daniel on 07584 190271 for a reasonable quote.

THE BARBER SHOP Emma Palmer 07531 946141

City & Guilds Qualified - CRB checked All aspects of timber work catered for Inbuilt wardrobes made to measure * Loft conversions Kitchen & bathroom installation Home improvements including tiling & wood flooring uPVC fascia & guttering installed * uPVC windows & doors

Nail Technician and Beauty Therapist Faringdon, Oxfordshire

The local carpenter, no inflated prices

6 Cornmarket, Faringdon

Tues 9am-5.15pm Wed 9am-5.15pm Thur 9am-7pm Fri 9am-6pm Sat 8.30am-1pm Open lunchtimes

01367 244611

Telephone: 07581 171815

LP Accountancy Services Bookkeeping, Management Accounts, VAT Returns, Self Assessment, IT Implementation, Payroll

Competitive Prices

Call me on 07824 539494 Louise Pearson - Accountancy Services lou.pears@hotmail.co.uk 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 16-18 London Road available.

Tel: 01367 242268

Faringdon, Oxfordshire

Tel: 07968 130361

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

£££ EARN CASH NOW £££ 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

Delivering Betterware catalogues Taking orders and delivering the goods It’s really that simple!!!

All local areas & surrounding villages Flexible hours to suit No costs to join!!!

0121 693 2671 The more you do - The more you earn!!!

VOGUE Hairdressing by professionals Alison Belcher - Hairdresser 28 High Street, Stanford in the Vale Faringdon, Oxon

01367 710476

Advertise for just £9.95 per month. Call Lou on 01367 246130

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Experts - local services Lisa’s Cakes Unique celebration cakes, wedding and cup cakes Professional diplomas & Masters Certificate

lm_holmes@hotmail.com www.lisascakes.vpweb.co.uk 01367 240812

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

Tel: 01793 766397 or 01367 252701 (Lechlade) The Music Gallery Independent music retailer 8 Newbury Street Wantage, Oxon OX12 8BS 01235 770353 themusicgallery@hotmail.co.uk

Acoustic/Electric Beginners Welcome

01367 242740

Your local electricians Domestic-Commercial-Industrial Faringdon

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Music Review: A Taste of Honey Matthew Kilford is a Swindon-born singer/songwriter who currently resides in Great Coxwell.

He writes songs that highlight his extraordinary voice and skilful guitar playing, whilst retaining hooks and a unique songwriting slant. He has crafted a set of tunes that possess echoes of Jeff Buckley, PJ Harvey and Joni Mitchell without actually sounding like any of them.

Autumn 2008 saw the release of his first four track E.P. entitled “House on the Hill", which was chosen for radio play on Tom Robinson's BBC Introducing show. In 2009 Matthew was selected to play at the Radio One Big Weekend Official Fringe festival and at The Camden Crawl. Keen to play more festivals, Matthew entered the Glastonbury Emerging Talent competition in 2010, and reached the final 10 of the public voting stage (out of 1,600 entries).

To listen to Matthew’s sublime songs and find out what he’s up to next visit matthewkilford.blogspot.com or www.facebook.com/pages/Matthew-Kilford/21637442274.

GN The Advertiser is published by Focus on Faringdon CIC, 14 Market Place, Faringdon SN7 7HP. 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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CAR BODY REPAIRS V W RESTORATION

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

An informal folk oriented sing around (Phasianus colchicus)

Some of you may recall my tale of “Marty the Blackbird” in the December/January edition of the Advertiser. Firstly, he’s alive and kicking and residing (ironically) near the Swan Public House on Park road. He has made it through the recent Arctic conditions, well done Marty!

However, there’s a new kid in town and his name is Pocka!

Pocka is a large male pheasant ruling the roost around the Tuckers Road area. I have always believed that these types of birds are bred for game and live in forests and woodland but Pocka clearly has issues with that. We first spotted him on a Sunday afternoon in October, sitting on our garden fence looking into the conservatory. He was unperturbed by anything going on around him, including next door’s cat prowling below. There is always an abundance of bird food in the garden and the temptation proved too much for him, landing at the top of the garden then running flat out towards the house. All the other birds looked in deep shock; you could almost hear them say, “Blimey, look at the size of that thing!”

Pocka moved in permanently over the next few days, greeting us every morning with a zigzag dance and the weird noise pheasants make, “korr kok”.

His best friend and companion is Nimble, a small Pied Wagtail with a chronic twitch. They are totally inseparable, going everywhere together. Seeing them both on the wall eating seed and mealworms is hilarious. Surely this can’t be normal? Nimble is a tad nervous, not letting you get too close. Pocka is the opposite: he’s more than happy to take food from your hand, no problem!

Pheasants are commercially bred game birds, shot in their thousands between October – February each year. They are known for being the most hunted bird on the planet; if organised shoots don’t claim them, road traffic often does. Spare a thought for these quirky creatures as life is extremely tough for them all year round.

Known in the UK as the Common Pheasant, they are fast becoming far from that!

C. Row

Sunday 30th January Come along to listen or join in. Starting around 7pm - or when you turn up.

Finishing 11pm sharp (We’ve got to go to work in the morning!)

NB: The tables will be pushed together to give a large central island - as requested!

Tennis Club Quiz Saturday 5th February Feel free to join in …

St Valentine’s Weekend Saturday 12th February Gof Smith is best known as one of the town’s 1st Responders. He will be entertaining you with ballads and other musical favourites from the 60s and beyond. He has played the keyboard in venues throughout Oxfordshire and has recently started performing again after 15 years, when “itchy fingers” got the better of him! Free entrance (and exit!)

Sunday 13th February Listen to the music of Reg Eyles, chosen especially for you to romance your loved one, whilst enjoying complimentary canapes served with every bottle of champagne, Cava or wine from our extensive wine list.

St Valentine’s Day Monday 14th February from 7.30pm Last year, St Valentine’s at the Portwell Angel was sold out and this year promises to be better still!

Menu: Tomato and Mozzarella Salad Spanish Pork with olives and rice, and a crisp side salad Chocolate Fountain with fresh fruit and marshmallows Coffee and Chocolate Saxophonist Ray Butts sets the romantic mood with his timeless jazz and blues.

Tickets £45 per couple - can be ordered and paid for in advance from the Portwell Angel. Champagnes on special offer to make your evening go with a fizzzzz.

Nick Gill Friday 18th February Nick Gill returns to provide another evening of classic jazz and ragtime blues, following his sell out visit late last year. Tickets £8.50, booking in advance advised.

An informal folk oriented sing around Friday 27th February Paintings by Valerie Cosway and Lyn Armstrong on display throughout February

Tuesdays: Ladies Night: Half price cocktails Wednesdays: Half price platters when bought with a bottle of wine from our extensive wine list

Thursday & Fridays: Free canapé with all drinks purchased between 5pm and 7pm Visit www.portwellangel.co.uk for current details of events, special offers, etc. and to take a look at our NEW MENU

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