Advertiser Dec18

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The

December 2018

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

Inside this month: Fernham Christmas Fair Faringdon Writing Group Peter Wheeler: Best In Show Barrington Arms Party Menu Root & Branch: Wreath Making The Bell Hotel Christmas Menu’s Slimming World With Amy & Louise Artist Of The Month: Laura Hounam COCO: Wishing You a Very Happy Christmas Charney Romanian Rescue Dogs: In Memory Of Seve Promoting local business, trade and services.

Advertise! Be Seen! Call Lou 01367 244975 or 07894 554551

The

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|December 2018|

Advertiser Chris Lewis Electrical Domestic and Commercial Works Free Quotations

07834 983 155 www.chrislewiselectrical.co.uk Faringdon based electrician Call us today to see how we can help you?

May your Christmas be filled with sharing, loving, and thanking God for all his blessings.

Merry Christmas!

We offer government funded Nursery places to some 2 year olds, as well as 3 and 4 year olds For more information, contact Stephanie Chapman

01367 243800 visit www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk

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Wishing you a Merry Christmas And a Happy New Year

WHO’S NEXT?

Dog Grooming and Hydrotherapy Centre Call Trish: 01367 820060 Cowleaze Farm, Woolstone, Oxon SN7 7QS Email: thedogstudio@live.co.uk

From all of us at The Dog Studio……

Thank you very much for your support over the past year.

Wishing you all the best for 2019!

See You Soon……….

Visit our web site: www.thedogstudio.co.uk

Faringdon Business Breakfast Club It was a bright, autumnal morning when the Faringdon Business Breakfast club met in November. After our excellent breakfast provided by The Bell Hotel, members spoke for a traditional 60 seconds about their business. As usual, we had a diverse set of businesses in the room including an estate agent, a few accountants, a health and safety expert, a solicitor, and a HR consultant.

Mary Thomas, from Concise Training then took the floor to talk about how we can all keep ourselves safe on the Internet. Following the story of a hapless fictional employee, Ben, Mary talked about the importance of recognising and deleting spam emails, locking your computer screen when not in use and setting up different user accounts when more than one person accesses your computer. Mary suggested creating strong and different passwords for each account – using a password manager if required. She also discussed the risks of using public WI-FI and then safer method of setting up a hotspot on your phone and the importance of back up and encryption. There was general agreement that this served as a reminder to everybody in the room to be more careful while online.

The next Faringdon Business Breakfast Club (FBBC) meeting will be our Christmas quiz on 3rd December. All welcome to help us beat our quizmaster. Please book on our website www.fbbc-networking.co.uk or call 07799 634835.

579798

Unicorn Oxon Ltd Plumbing & Heating Specialists

All Gas Work All Plumbing Work Bathrooms Gas Appliances Boiler Servicing Central Heating Landlord Cert's QUALITY WITH CARE Locally based - call Steve: 01367 240160 or 07901 772 058

The Advertiser Magazine Deadline for January Edition is 14th December

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REGENT CINEMA Weds 5th December - Swimming With Men (12A) (2018 - Comedy, Drama, Romance) A man who is suffering a mid-life crisis finds new meaning in his life as part of an all-male, middle-aged, amateur synchronised swimming team.

Stars: Rob Brydon, Rupert Graves, Thomas Turgoose Film duration: 1 hour 36 mins (no interval) Free tea/coffee and a biscuit Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, The Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pmTickets in advance £4 from Faringdon Information Centre / £5 on the doorMatinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films (inc half price prebooked Blockbuster evening cinema tickets)

Friday 14th December - The Man Who Invented Christmas (PG) (2018 - Biography, Comedy, Drama ) The journey that led to Charles Dickens' creation of 'A Christmas Carol", a timeless tale that would redefine Christmas Stars: Dan Stevens, Mark Schrier, Patrick Joseph Byrnes Film duration: 1 hrs 44 min (plus 15 min interval) Licensed bar, refreshments, ice-creams and popcorn Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, The Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm Tickets in advance £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on door £4 U18s, £5 Adult, £11 Family

Friday 21st December - Christopher Robin (PG) (2018 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy) A working-class family man, Christopher Robin, encounters his childhood friend Winnie-thePooh, who helps him to rediscover the joys of life.

Stars: Ewan McGregor, Hayley Atwell, Bronte Carmichael Film duration: 1 hr 44 min (plus 15 min interval) Refreshments, ice-cream, popcorn 50p FREE squash!

Kids Cinema @ The Regent, The Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 2.00pm, film starts at 2.30pm.

Tickets in advance £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Info Centre Tickets on door £4 U18s, £5 Adult, £11 Family

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The

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Served with balsamic glazed strawberries and Amaretto cream

Selection of Cheese and Biscuits Tea or Coffee and a Mince Pie Enjoy 2 courses for ÂŁ19.95 Or 3 courses for just ÂŁ24.95

email: pjpglazing@gmail.com

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We are raising money for Charney Romanian Rescue Dogs! Please come along to view our Beautiful lights, all donations will help to re-home and care for the rescued dogs, in memory of our dearest companion Seve Chris and George Platt Corner of Meadow Bank & Ash Close Faringdon

Hazel & Jack

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Swan Hill Garage, Townsend Road, Shrivenham, Wilts, SN6 8HR

A specialist firm dealing with private client work including Wills • Estate Administration • Lasting Powers of Attorney and all aspects of residential property and conveyancing work such as Sales • Purchases • Remortgages • Shared Ownership Development Transactions • Land Transactions • Property Investment Angel Wilkins LLP, The White Barn, Manor Farm, Manor Road, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12 8NE Tel: 01235 775100 Fax: 01235 775101 Email: neil@angelwilkins.co.uk - amanda@angelwilkins.co.uk - suzy@angelwilkins.co.uk elizabeth@angelwilkins.co.uk Angel Wilkins LLP is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority: SRA number: 524327

Roberts Reflections!

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Peace…

As I write, the 100th anniversary of the ending of WW1 is being remembered in homes, churches, cathedrals, mosques and all other places of worship, in concert halls and on the battlefields and War graves. BBC Countryfile had a very respectful and moving hour on just this. Some experts in their field were very moved by the stories behind photos and medals, as well as by the lengths family and friends went to look into the story of their close relatives. One fatality, who was a violin maker, had the honour of his 6th hand-made violin being beautifully played in that same cemetery where he lies, along with many, many colleagues who also lost their lives. We saw a copy of the telegram, sent at 10:20 on the 11th November, announcing cessation of fighting 40 minutes later – 40 minutes that were fateful and tragic for many of those fighting on both sides, even the last minute.

There were also two pressed, preserved poppies taken from a battlefield by one soldier who survived.

Family members, whether lost in the past year or in the past century, will be remembered this November and at Christmas, so I have no regrets in continuing honouring and remembering them this month and in the months to follow.

I also can begin to understand the huge loss felt by owners when a family companion dies and the house seems so different, so empty, afterwards Thinking about homes and Christmas, I draw on information from the StreetVet website, www.streetvet.co.uk ,which advises that homelessness is a growing problem in the UK and an increasing number of homeless people have dogs. The bond between many homeless people and their dogs is profound and the health and well-being of their canine companions is often a major priority for their owners.

Life on the streets makes it difficult to access the fundamental veterinary care required to ensure the health and vitality these dogs deserve. StreetVet is a registered practice with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and has been established by a dedicated team of professional vets and veterinary nurses to bring that essential care to homeless people and their dogs across towns and cities. Together the StreetVet team take their experience out onto the streets of London, Bristol, Brighton, Birmingham, Cambridge, Plymouth, Southampton and Cheltenham, seeking out people and their dogs living rough, and delivering care and support required to ensure their combined well-being.

Combined with the critical support of a host of renowned organisations backing our team of qualified professionals, StreetVet is changing the future for homeless dogs who may otherwise have to go without the care they need and deserve.

Many charities are also worthy of support but I would like to bring StreetVet to my Reader’s attention and here are ways to support them: from donating money to fund their work, to purchasing items on their Amazon Wishlist or notifying StreetVet of a dog and its owner in need, there are many ways for you to support this programme.

StreetVet undertake to use everything you give – in cash or kind – to provide much needed care to the homeless and their dogs across the cities in which StreetVet are active. This includes buying medications; paying for life saving operations; and equipping the teams with the kit they need.

StreetVet state that by supporting them, your donations will fund an increase in outreach so that more vets can be on the streets helping more people and their dogs in need. By enabling delivery of this much needed programme, StreetVet can ensure people without the resources to care for their pets can continue enjoying the critical companionship their dogs provide. I for one will gladly offer my expertise and compassion when the next opportunity arises. Do have a look at their website, please.

To close, may I wish you, my kind Reader, your family and any companion animals, a wonderful, peaceful and reflective Christmas time, with every health and happiness in the New Year. A time to reflect on friends, family and pets past and present. To my dear Clients, I am very proud and honoured to have been, and will continue to be, part of your Families and to support you and your pets in times of need, distress and advice – AND to share in your joy at happy, special, moments .

Merry Christmas !!

Robert Elliott 21-23 High Street, Stanford In The Vale, SN7 8LH 01367 710595

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BATHROOM SHOWROOM Open to the Public & Trade

Following his success in repainting Thomas the Tank Engine’s new smiley face, well known Faringdon artist, Peter Wheeler is in the news again. This time for his more serious work. A longstanding member of the Faringdon Art Society, Peter entered five framed pictures in their 54th annual exhibition recently – and WON, not only the award for Best Acrylic painting, but was made the Overall Cup Winner.

“I’m over the moon” said Peter following the presentation at the preview evening in The Corn Exchange, “I first exhibited with Faringdon Art Society in 2005 and in the following 14 years have missed only one exhibition when I was so busy with a large mural commission that I had no new work to show. And although sales have been good and I have had wonderful public support, this is the first time I have had recognition from my peers.

It really means a lot to me”.

Following a very disciplined working life in graphic design, Peter’s retirement enabled him to paint for his own pleasure, mainly recording scenes from his extensive travels – the winning picture captures a peaceful evening scene of a beautiful white horse walking home with its owner on an estate on the Island of Mauritius.

As an aside, Peter apologises to those who were unable to buy his Christmas themed cards at the exhibition, and assures them that a repeat delivery is Expected any day now.

Contact Peter on 01367 241453 Or at AshCloseArt@talktalk.net

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Diana Her True Story

By Andrew Morton Dear reader I apologise for my absence from this magazine last month; a bout of shingles laid me low and I was in no fit state to be dealing with anything. If anyone ever tells you shingles is all about the skin irritation and nothing much else, you have my permission to ignore them or to educate them in the facts of it being absolutely dreadful.

Back then – and I’m old enough to remember the serialising in newspapers, and the feeling that Diana had done something dramatic in being involved in this book that noone had ever done before.

The hallowed halls of Buckingham Palace, Balmoral and Sandringham are torn asunder by revelations of Diana’s interests in astrology, which protection officers made her feel normal amidst the grandeur of royal life, and of Prince Charles’s casual neglect. No one escapes focus, with the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret, Princess Anne and Fergie thrown in the mix.

Feeling as I did, I wanted something undemanding and gossipy. A few months ago I was given a copy of Diana: Her True Story by Andrew Morton as part of a ‘buy one, get one free’ offer on eBay, and decided the time was right to have a trip down memory lane. So this month’s review is a journey into the archive.

It’s easy to see why this book caused such a stir when it was first released back in the early 1990s. Nowadays we’ve become accustomed to reading gossipy insights as part of our demanding 24-hour news cycle, and this is no longer a shock to us.

It’s interesting reading this so many years later and seeing all of these figures through the lens of history. And seeing Diana herself as she was – enigmatic, lonely, unstable, strong, neglected, determined and cowed by her position.

It’s a potent mix…if she were fiction she would be one of our most complex literary heroines.

I gobbled down the book in no time, and recommend giving it a reread if you’ve still got a copy on your bookshelf.

Coincidently I was reading this during the week Prince Charles celebrated his 70th birthday. Seeing him as happy as he seems with the Duchess of Cornwall gave me a moment of thoughtfulness. Just a moment, thinking of past, present and future, what was, and what could have been.

Claire Meadows

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1000

Selby Lowndes

Family law solicitors

Experts in Divorce Family and Children law “superior judgement and robust negotiating skills” Chambers & Partners Legal Directory Continuing the theme of looking at some whiskies that are relatively new and have proved popular in our shop over the last year, this month we look at the smokier drams – from those with just a hint of smoke to the full on ‘peat monsters’.

Starting at the softer end of the spectrum, I make no apologies for mentioning again both the 12 year old and the 7 Wood from the Jura range. The new flavour profile that marries fruitiness with the most subtle thread of smoke is delightful and would bring joy to anyone’s upcoming Christmas festivities. In a similar vein is the Huddart, from Old Pulteney’s recently revamped line up. Matured in refill American casks followed by a period in ex-Islay casks, this sweet and fruity malt has a waft of wood smoke running through it and went down very well at our recent tasting.

Moving to Speyside, Tomintoul distillery promotes its whiskies as being ‘the gentle dram’, and for some years have included in their range an expression that is called the Peaty Tang. Cleverly combining the light, fresh, floral sweetness of a typical Speyside whisky with a real ‘tang’ of smoke produces more complexity than is usually expected in a relatively young whisky, and now a 15 year old version has been released that takes the dram to another level. This would be an interesting one to compare and contrast with the 2018 release of the Balvenie Peat Week – also hailing from Speyside but a slightly different proposition with its trademark honey mingling with the smoke.

Of course, any discussion about peated whisky wouldn’t be complete without mentioning some from Islay and we were really pleased to welcome to our shelves recently the latest expressions from the evolving Port Charlotte range that is produced at Bruichladdich. For me, this bringing together of the light, elegant spirit that Bruichladdich are known for with a well integrated hit of Islay peat is genius, and this year Port Charlotte reached a landmark as there is now a 10 year old expression in the core range. The distillery’s tasting notes describe it perfectly when they say ‘the balance of flavour is superb as the smoke wraps loosely around the sweetness drawn from deep within the oak’ but I’m not sure I get the ‘smoked oysters and sun baked salty sand’…

Whatever, it is a wonderful whisky that is flying off the shelves, as are its siblings the 2011 Islay Barley and limited release MRC 01 experimental cask.

Two final peated whiskies that are new this year and would be a good addition to the Christmas drinks cupboard are the Kilchoman 2018 100% Islay (which this year is enriched with a higher proportion of sherry cask matured whisky) and their recent limited edition Sauternes Cask expression.

Wishing you all a very happy festive season. Cheers!

Fran and Ken Thomas Fran Thomas

Oxford Faringdon Swindon Cirencester Cotswolds

Free First Interview Fixed Fees Available

01367 241 701 www.slsfamilylaw.co.uk contact@slsfamilylaw.co.uk Selby Lowndes Solicitors Ltd, 3 Ram Court, Wicklesham Lodge, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 7PN

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gardenscaPe Individual Design, Construction & Maintenance To discuss your personal garden requirements phone: 01865 250372 or 07773333531 Roger Hutchence - BA (HONS) NCH (Landscape Construction) www.gardenscape.biz Roger@gardenscape.biz

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

Faringdon Branch

2 Market Place, Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 7HW Tel: 01367 240285 High Street, Lechlade, Gloucestershire GL7 3AE Tel: 01367 252644 www.crowdyandrose.co.uk

Info@crowdyandrose.co.uk

Lechlade Branch

Healthy Living!

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You Are Not Alone!

Whatever your reason is for wanting to make a change, you’re not alone!

There are of course many reasons people decide to change things in their lives: ● ● ● ● ●

The doctor told you to lose weight Your are tired of being out of shape What you see in the mirror is not pleasing to you You have no energy to play with your children You are just fed up with the way you are

Whatever your reason is for wanting to make a change the way to succeed is to commit to it!

Knowing when you are ready to make change is obviously the first step, followed by what you are going to change and how you are going to achieve it.

Having a really good reason is the only way to succeed. You are more than likely to fail if it’s not what you feel deep down. The only way to get through any tough times is to believe in your motivations.

The best plan for you is the one you are happy to stick with.

Instant gratification usually comes at a cost – long term results are harder to achieve but well worth it. ● ● ● ● ● ●

Do the best you can Avoid those who want you to fail Do it for yourself Cut out the guilt Ask for help when you need it Have fun

OPENING TIMES SUNDAY - TUESDAY CLOSED

You are the only one who can decide how you are going to live your life. My experiences show me that we know what to do, however we look for reasons or excuses not to get started or to explain why we have failed. Sometimes we are happy to lie to ourselves or lie to others - anything to avoid responsibility for our actions, or lack of them.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

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The answers are out there, (usually in front of our own noses) but quite often knowing what to do is not enough, and we can deliberately make it confusing or difficult to achieve our goals.

Too many people start with the best intentions which fall apart when ‘life’ gets in the way.

Set a start date and stay accountable Aim to be healthier by making better choices Do it for yourself Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year Rich

faringdonjewellers.com Richard Marfell – Wellness Coach 07800636004 Richardmarfelluk@gmail.com

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Faringdon Bell Ringers

To All Our Clients Wishing You All A Very Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year Carmen, Carol & Team

07711 055559 WE LOOK AFTER YOU! FREE COURTESY CAR, MODERN WITH AIR CONDITIONING

Sombre bells sound in hope for the future Faringdon's bells contributed three times to the Ringing for the Centenary of the WWI Armistice on 11 November 2018.

First, the bells rang half muffled before the morning Remembrance service, then again at midday for the march past the Cenotaph in London and finally for the lighting of the Armistice 100 Beacons in the evening. Records of these events can be found alongside all those across the country on the Ringers Bellboard https://bb.ringingworld.co.uk/event.php?id=9128 We continue to welcome learners throughout the week.

One learner has already 'graduated' to join our Sunday service ringing and we hope that more will swell our band in the coming weeks.

We look forward as the year draws to a close, we would like to thank everyone who has supported us this year, both those who have visited us in the tower and those who have said how much they enjoy hearing the bells. May we wish all readers the very best for the coming season of festivities.

If you are interested in learning how to ring full-circle bells, you can drop into our Sunday service ringing 9.45–10.30 am or Monday practice 7.30–9.00 pm at Faringdon's church bell tower. Contact us by emailing faringdonringers@gmail.com.

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The Bell Hotel

Unforgettable Christmas Experience Tel: 01367 358050 The 17th century family run Bell Hotel, warmly invites you to celebrate Christmas with us, set in the heart of the idyllic Faringdon market place.

We are offering a variety of festive dishes from our exceptional 3 course menu, finishing with tea or coffee and mince pies. Our Christmas Day commences with a glass of Prosecco, serving will start at 12 noon until 3pm. Please book now, to ensure the time slot that suits you and your guests.

All our fresh produce is locally sourced and of a superior quality, for your enjoyment.

Our Christmas Party Menu below, offers a choice of lunch or dinner for family and friends, gatherings or businesses and team parties.

with warm bread. with dressed leaves. on toasted ciabatta with honey and mustard sauce and salad garnish.

with warm bread. with dressed leaves. on toasted ciabatta with honey and mustard sauce and salad garnish.

with all the trimmings. with roasted tomatoes, creamy mash, seasonal vegetables and a peppercorn sauce. with roasted new potatoes and a garden salad.

Our carvery serving or with seasonal vegetables, crispy roast potatoes, scrumptious stuffing, pigs in blankets, Yorkshire puddings and gravy.

with garlic parsley white wine sauce, potato rosti and seasonal vegetables.

(V)

with brandy sauce.

with brandy sauce.

with crème anglaise

with crème anglaise

Tea and Coffee with Mini Mince Pies.

Tea or Coffee and Mince Pies to finish

2 courses £20 children £9.50 3 course meal £25 children £12.50.

3 courses menu £50 Children £27.50

A DEPOSIT is required for all bookings of £15 per person.

All bookings require 48 hours’ notice.

A DEPOSIT is required for all bookings of £20 per person.

All bookings require a minimum of 48 hours’ notice.

13 Market Place, Faringdon, Oxon, SN7 7HP email: bellhotelfar@aol.com

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Call us on 01865 820088

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Super slimmer's in Faringdon & Stanford in the Vale have lost a Amy & Louise whopping 512 STONES (7168 pounds) in weight in 2018 that’s the equivalent of 47 Oxford Dictionaries or 55 newborn giraffes!

All together the members of the Stanford in the Vale Slimming World group are now 104 stones lighter than they were when Consultant Amy Linsey took over the group 6 months ago. The two Faringdon Slimming World groups between them have lost a fantastic 361 stones in 2018 with Consultant Louise Preece.

The determined members, who attend the groups every week, follow Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan created by the organisation’s team of expert nutritionists, which encourages them to fill up on satisfying foods such as pasta, rice, potatoes, lean meat and fish, pulses and fruit and vegetables.

Rita Smith has lost 5st 2lbs to drop from a size 18 to a size 8, and enjoys being able to weigh in at both Faringdon & Stanford in the Vale groups to suit her flexible work schedule. She says: “Filling up on lots of satisfying foods means you’re never hungry so I’ve never felt as though I was on a diet. Before I joined Slimming World I thought losing weight meant going to the gym and counting calories. But now I know it’s about making healthier choices about food and becoming a bit more active.

“Reaching this milestone as groups just proves the huge change that we’ve all made to our lives, some people who’ve lost big amounts of weight have probably even saved their lives. It’s brilliant to celebrate together as well because that’s how we’ve been losing weight – together.

Every week we support and encourage each other and share tips and recipes, and on top of that we have a lot of fun.

“The support and inspiration we get from our Consultants Louise & Amy has also been integral to our success. Because they have both lost weight themselves, they understand the ups and downs of slimming and can offer us help and advice based on their own experience, without them I don’t think we’d have achieved nearly as much.”

Louise & Amy say: “We’re delighted that our members have lost weight so beautifully. It has made a big difference to their lives and to their whole families’ lives, and all of them are happier and healthier now. Slimming has never been more important. There are overweight and obese people in our local area and we just want to help even more people to make real changes for life – there’s no better job satisfaction than that!”

Louise Preece holds her Faringdon Groups every Wednesday at 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Thursday mornings at 9.30am in Faringdon United Church.

Amy Linsey holds her Stanford in the Vale Group every Thursday at 7.30pm in Stanford in the Vale Primary School with a new 5.30pm session starting from 3rd January 2019.

For more information or to join call Louise on 07717 681939 or Amy on 07514 255703.

Faringdon United Church Wednesday 5.30pm and 7.30pm Thursday's 9.30am *Morning Group* Southfield Junior School, Highworth Thursday's 5.30pm and 7.30pm *New Times* Contact Louise on 07717681939 Stanford in the Vale Primary School Thursday's 7.30pm *5.30pm from 3rd Jan19* Call Amy on 07514 255703

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Rob.. The Cheese Man! Best selection! Best Cheese!

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Let’s talk about Wine!

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Wine Wise For Christmas!

Winter Starter Offers 3 months golf membership for £150, if you choose to extend for a year we will deduct £150 from yearly cost.

Winter Wednesday It is time to think about what to do wine wise for Christmas. As we all have different routines like when to open the presents, when to eat the big meal etc. I will assume a general present opening in the morning and a meal mid afternoon. The second guide I follow is to pace the day both from eating and drinking because I know I will eat lots and drink a fair amount.

So with that as a background. I like to start the day with some sparkling drink, a nice bucks fizz gets the day going or just champagne (well it is a special day). Make it with fresh orange juice and Cava and it helps the tasks you will be doing while preparing for the main event or have this light refreshing drink while opening presents. The choice of sparkling wines is amazing, with champagnes below £15 from most supermarkets, Cava and Prosecco giving tremendous value in the £5 - £10 bracket.

If you are having a starter, whether soup, nibbles or cooked, a light easy drinking wine like Pino Grigio will go down well. This wine comes from North Italy primarily, but there are other European versions, plus Australian, New Zealand and Chilean versions.

There are some great choices in our local supermarkets.

Then for the turkey I prefer a red wine as turkey has a slightly gamey flavour. For the red wine, I recommend a medium bodied wine, as too heavy a wine is likely to overpower the flavour of the meat. The red wines are a bit trickier, but I find Pinot Noir from Burgundy has a lovely flavour, though you do need to keep an eye out for the special prices as they can be a bit pricey. The supermarket own brands can be worth a try. There are Pinot Noir from New Zealand and Australia which have a similar flavour, though I still prefer the French versions. Cote du Rhone, is French, though there are many versions. I would suggest a Cote du Rhone Villages, which has a more depth of flavour.

From Italy, a nice Chianti will work and a Merlot from most parts of the world will work as well. If you want a white, then try a nice Chardonnay, Chablis, but not an oaked wine.

If you have any room left, pudding deserves something a little special. A desert wine is worth a go, with Sauternes at the top of the scale, but a Tokai or Monbazilliac will do just as good a job.

If you have not tried desert wine before, this is a great time to start, they are obviously sweet, but should also deliver some intense fruit flavours.

For those who have paced themselves well, a little cheese is called for. Here you can stick with your red wine, or go for a port.

Then it is down to choosing Tawny, LBV, or a vintage (which is bottled in a specific year and lighter blends. With port, you will get more flavour from late bottled versions (LBV) as they get more time to develop their flavours in the casks. You can occasionally find white port, which is equally delicious, but served chilled.

I hope you enjoy your Christmas and wish you all a happy time with friends and family.

Ian Lloyd

Wine Enthusiast ian@getwine.co.uk

Enjoy 18 holes of golf and a bowl of homemade soup for £15

You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy the clubhouse menu!

Sunday Roasts Sunday roast served from 12.30 to 3pm

Full Menu Served Daily New express menu Daily specials For more info via phone or email: 01367 870887 / clubhouse@carswellgolfclub.co.uk 01367 870505 / office@carswellgolfclub.co.uk

GLASS

A true reflection of quality GLASS PROCESSORS & GLAZIERS GLASS CUT WHILE-U-WAIT MIRRORS • BEVELLING SANDBLASTING • POLISHING DRILLING • DECORATIVE GLASS COLOURED SPLASHBACKS Tel: 01793 513864 Fax: 01793 535476 Email: sales@cameo-glass.com Cameo Glass, 100 Faraday Park, Dorcan Ind. Est., Swindon, SN3 5JF

| The Advertiser | page 20 |

Artist Of The Month Laura Hounam Faringdon Information Centre is very happy to welcome Laura Hounam as December’s Artist of the month.

Laura makes handcrafted original items of jewellery to the highest standard using various techniques from wire work to bead weaving and crochet. The unique designs she produces are inspired by the carefully selected materials which are often re-claimed or donated. All proceeds from the sale of her jewellery or any other crafted items she makes are donated to Against Breast Cancer.

Laura is a member of Jasso, an association of silversmiths based in Abingdon. Her work has been featured in the Meller Art Gallery, Witney and in many editions of the UK’s first beading magazine, “Bead”. More recently Laura has had exhibitions at Burford Visitor Centre, the Banbury Museum and at the Vesey Room in Bampton.

She also attends many craft fairs.

Come along to see Laura’s jewellery in the Information Centre throughout December open 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday and 9:30pm to 1pm on Saturdays.

YOGA • HOLISTIC THERAPIES • BOUTIQUE 01367 358188 • carrie@thelotusretreat.com • 07940542181 01367 358188 carrie@thelotusretreat.com 07940 542181 2 London Street • Faringdon • SN7 7AA

| The Advertiser | page 21 |

Faringdon Writing Group sky-born we looked at the world, you and I, at the same time each glance was a renewal, but now, after time passed, we fell into a loss of dream, you and I,

Together

Let us ignore what we became at daybreak, night unlocked into locked days, high plains led to the abyss.

Stars still shine on the sweet orbits of love, when clouds move in the clear light, like poetry and freedom leaning in from space, where everything advances and grows in that wild wind, that lifts, tears apart and increases us more and more‌ I never knew, what I know now, never knew, how and where, but neither until when and what for‌

By Scharlie

| The Advertiser | page 22 |

Out and About Date

Event

Venue

Time

Contact

Oct - Feb

Exhibition ‘Hospital: Faringdon’s Pump House in WWI’

The Pump House

Sat 1st

Christmas Lights-On Festive Faringdon

Sat 1st

Charge/info

Market Square

2pm Lights on 5.30pm

festivefaringdon@emsoap.co.uk

Fernham Christmas Fair!

St Johns Church, Fernham, SN7 7NX

11am 3pm

3rd -22nd

Father Christmas with Thomas the Tank Engine

Various Locations

Sun 2nd

Langford Village Craft Fayre

Langford Village Hall

2pm-4pm

Christine Tinson 01367 860514

Free entry

Sun 2nd

Wantage Band

The Corn Exchange, Faringdon

6pm

www.wantageband.org/events or 01235 770378

Adults £10 Senoir/student £8 U16s £6

Tue 4th Dec

Christmas Prize Bingo

Ferendune Court

7pm

Lorraine 01367 244267

Free entry

Wed 5th

Swimming with Men (12A)

The Regent Cinema

12.30pm

www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/re gent-cinema-2

Advance £4 On Door £5

Thu 6th

Vale Ramblers Mince Pie Walk

Market Place

10.30am

7748680888

5 mile walk

Thu 6th

White Horse Garden Club Talk: Beer and Hops

Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall, Uffington

7.30pm

Pamela Preene 01367-820251 or parrottspreene@aol.com

Visitors £3 Raffle £1

Thu 6th

Make a Reindeer

Earth Trust, Little Wittenham

4.30pm 7pm

earthtrust.org.uk/whats-on/

£20

Fri 7th

Richard Durrant: A Candlelit Christmas Guitar Concert

St Nicholas Church, Baulking, SN7 7QE

8pm

01367 820282

£17

Fri 7th

Christmas Bingo

Stanford Social Club

7.30pm

Sat 8th

Root & Branch Christmas Wreath Making Workshop

Root & Branch, Westmill Farm, Watchfield, SN6 8TH

Sun 9th

Christmas Xplorer orienteering event

Mon 1oth

Free Entry

All Welcome

10am 4pm

01793 780380 Rootandbranch@btconnect.com www.rootandbranch.info

£40 Booking Essential

Bullcroft Park, Wallingford

10am midday

Find 15 brightly coloured Christmas markers spread across the park

https://bit.ly/2zlrmsK

Stanford Art Group Christmas Activity

Stanford in the Vale Village Hall

7.30pm

Wed 12th

Stanford Village Hall Christmas Bingo

Stanford Village Hall

7pm

J. Greenwood on 01367 710578

Bar and Raffle

Thu 13th

U3A Talk: How to take a better Photograph

The Corn Exchange, Faringdon

2.30pm

faringdondistrictu3a.com Margaret Brown 01367 615385

Visitors £1.50

Thu 13th

Comedians and Carols

The Corn Exchange, Faringdon

7.30pm

Tickets from Mustard Seed or Eventbrite.co.uk www.allsaintsfaringdon.org

£8 12years and over

Fri 14th

Make a Wreath

Earth Trust, Little Wittenham

4.30pm 7pm

earthtrust.org.uk/whats-on/

£20

Fri 14th

The Man Who Invented Christmas (PG)

The Regent Cinema

7pm

www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/re gent-cinema-2

Tickets from £3

Sat 15th

Faringdon Singers Christmas Concert

St. Mary Magdalene Church, South Marston, SN3 4SR

7.30pm

Karen Vogt: 01367-241707, karen@vogt.org.uk or see www.faringdonsingers.org.uk

Free Donations Welcome

Sat 16th

Christmas Xplorer orienteering event

Wantage Memorial Park, Wantage

10am midday

Find 15 brightly coloured Christmas markers spread across the park

https://bit.ly/2zlrmsK

Sun 16th

Faringdon Singers Christmas Concert

Blessed Hugh Catholic Church, Faringdon

3pm

Karen Vogt: 01367-241707, karen@vogt.org.uk or see www.faringdonsingers.org.uk

Free Donations Welcome

Wed 19th

British Legion Christmas Evening

Faringdon Bowls Club

7.30pm

RBLFaringdon@yahoo.co.uk

Non members welcome

Fri 21st

Christopher Robin (PG)

The Regent Cinema

2pm

www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/re gent-cinema-2

Tickets from £3

Fri 21st

Sleeping Beauty

The Beacon Wantage

4pm

http://beaconwantage.co.uk/

£8.50 Family Ticket £32

Sat 22nd

Sleeping Beauty

The Beacon Wantage

1pm & 4pm

http://beaconwantage.co.uk/

£8.50 Family Ticket £32

Mon 31st

New Year’s Eve Disco

Faringdon Bowls Club

8pm

Trevor Durrant on 01793 330564 trevor.durrant1@ntlworld.com

£15 per person to include buffet supper

Members £2 Non-Members £4

| The Advertiser | page 23 |

Local Events Date

Venue

Time

Contact

Charge/info

Free One to One IT Help

Faringdon Library

2:30pm 4:30pm

Faringdon.library@oxfordshire .gov.uk

Free

Mon, Wed Thu

Lloyds Mobile Bank

Southampton Street Car Park

Mon 9:45 12pm

Wed 12:45pm-3pm Fri 1pm-3pm

Every Mon

Little All Sorts Toddler Group

All Saints Church Barber Room

9:30-11:00

Margaret 01367 244901

Free

Every Mon

Bridge Club

Faringdon United Church

6.45pm 10.15pm

Françoise Stacey, Secretary of the Club: 01367 241813

£2 per person

Every 2nd & 4th Mon

Disco Dots

Pump House Project

9:30-11am

Lucy 07900 800657

£1

3rd Mon

Mon, Tue & Wed

Event

Faringdon WI

Old Town Hall

2pm

Jan vinerjan@hotmail.com

Every Mon & Thurs

Faringdon Day Centre

Baptist Church Hall Bromsgrove

9:15- 2:15

Supervisor 07523 116918

1st Tue

Farmers Market

Market Place, Faringdon

Until 1pm

01367 710445

Every Tue

Coffee Morning

Faringdon Library

10:00 - 11:30

Sheena 01367 240311 wantage@babysensory.co.uk Kat Culverwell 07800568040

£10 inc lunch. Transport available Free

Every Tue

Baby & Toddler Sensory

The Pump House Project

10:30am 11.30am

Tue 14th

Chris Davis Fish Van

Outside The Bell

5:30 6:30

Every Tue

Whist Drive

The Old Town Hall

2:00pm

Sylvia 01367 242007

Free Tea & Coffee

Every Wed

Ferndale Choir

Catholic Church

7-8:30pm

louisejwoodgate@gmail.com

£3.50

Every Wed

The Crafty Crew

The Pump House Project

9.30-11.30am

info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk

Runs during Cake Cafe

Every Wed

Walking for Health

Start at Old Town Hall

10:30am

www.faringdon.org/walking-and-cycling

Walks to suit all abilities

Every Wed

Community Cake

The Pump House Project

9:30-11:30

info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk

£1 for Cake & Drink

Every Wed

Community Singing Group

The Pump House Project

12-1:00

info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk

£3 per person

Every Wed

Citizen Advise Bureau

Pump House

10am - 11am

01367 242191

Free

1st Wed

Open Mic Night

Horse and Jockey, Stanford in the Vale

9pm

Info@horseandjockey.org

Free

1st Wed

Buckland WI - Speaker and meeting each month

The Memorial Hall, Buckland

7pm

Libby Calvert 01367 870803

Non members £4 incl. refreshment

1st Wed

Information & Gadget Drop-in

Pump House Project

9:30am-11:30

Sonia

During Cake Cafe

2nd Wed

Follies Dollies WI

Catholic Church Hall

8-10pm

Charlotte 07809 225795

1st & last Wed

The Knitting Group

Horse and Jockey, Stanford in the Vale

7pm

Ruth Chester 01367710362 caston@tlkc.co.uk

Free

Every Wed & Thurs

Slimming World

United Reformed Church

Wed 5:30pm Thurs 9:30am

& Wed 7:30pm Louise 07717 681939

£4.95

Every Thu

Baby & Toddler 0-4yrs

United Church

9:30 -11am

faringdontoddlers@gmail.com

£1

Every Thu

Slimming World

Stanford Primary School

7:30pm

Amy 07514 255703

£4.95

Every Thu

Slimming World Highworth

Southfield Junior School

5:30&7:30

Louise 07717 681939

£4.95

Every Thu

Quiz

Horse & Jockey, Stanford in the Vale

9pm

01367 710302

Free

Every Thu

Chatterbox

Stanford Small Village Hall

10am - 12pm

Sandra 01367 718303

Coffee/Tea, Chat, Raffle

1st Fri

Book Club

Faringdon Library

6:00-7:00pm

Sheena 01367 240311

Free

Every Fri

Country Market

Corn Exchange

9:15am 11.00am

Jenny Howard-Jones 01367710382

Tea & coffee available Goods orders taken

Every Fri

Rhymetime

Faringdon Library

10:30 - 11:00

Sheena 01367 240311

Free

Every Fri

Badminton

Faringdon Leisure Centre

Fri 5-6pm

Every Fri

Bowling Club - Open Nights

Bowling Club

Fri 7:30

Trevor Durrant 01793 330564

Every Sat

Yoga Classes

Faringdon United Church

9am - 10.15am Adults

www.yogabear.org.uk 7875633923

Every Sat

Stagecoach Faringdon

Faringdon Junior School

Various

Stagecoach.co.uk/faringdon 01367 240663

2nd Sun

Great Coxwell Teas

The Reading Room,

2:30pm - 5pm

Great Coxwell

3rd Sat

Junior Book Club 8-11yrs

Faringdon Library

10:30-11:15

Sheena 01367 240311

Free

Sat - Sun

Tom Browns School Museum

Broad St Uffington

2-5pm

Karen Pilcher 01367 820 978

Open Bank holidays

£3 per session

Tea, Coffee and Cakes

| The Advertiser | page 24 |

Experts - Local Services The Veterinary Surgery of Robert Elliott As an independently run family practice, established in 1994, we are able to combine traditional standards with modern techniques and selected high-quality equipment.

We aim to provide high quality care in an especially warm and friendly environment.

E-mail: enquiries@vets-surgery.com www.vets-surgery.com

01367-710595

Court Cattery Stanford-in-the-Vale FAB now ICC & Vale licensed Established in 2000 Family run – Short or long stays; Medical management service available on enquiry.

Veterinary Care provided by the adjacent Robert Elliott Veterinary Surgery you are always welcome to arrange a first-time visit E-mail: sam@vets-surgery.com www.court-cattery.com

01367-711952

Lisa Moore Photography

FARINGDON COBBLER’S � Quality Shoe Repairs � Key Cutting � Engraving - VAPE’S & E-Liquid

www.lisamoore-photography.com

lmoore965@btinternet.com

01367 243 134

Lisa Moore….07854 651961

8 CORNMARKET FARINGDON SN7 7HH

Chickens & Poultry Feed All at unbeatable prices

M.J.Hodgkins � � � �

Est. 1960

Open Mon-Sat 8am-12 noon Closed bank holidays Tel: 01865 821537 or 07759551946 www.mjhodgkins.co.uk New Barn Farm, Longworth, OX13 5ED

Call Vicky 07958 241342

Swan Hill Dog Grooming & Spa

F A R I N G D O N A I R P O R T

Swan Hill Farm Buildings Townsend Road Shrivenham SN6 8HR

Call Beth Keene on 07398 505794

A1 MOBILE Car Servicing & Repairs Diagnostics Health Check From Only £15

Located

Short/Long Distances Business Accounts Driver Hire 4/7 Seater's

Corporate Service Courier Service Executive Cars Insured Cars

01367243838-07894572919 01367705030

07955499467

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

OUR SERVICES

FARINGDON 01367 244 611

We stock Nitty Gritty Headlice Lotion

Book in for a hot towel and traditional “cut throat” razor shave

Tel 0756467025 email a1mobservice@outlook.com

C A R S

T R A N S F E R S

Facebook.com /TheBarbersFaringdon

Hours of business: Monday: 9am - 1pm Tuesday: 9am - 6pm Wednesday: 9am - 6pm Thursday: 9am - 7pm Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 8am - 3pm Sunday 10am - 1pm

NEW BUILDS EXTENSIONS STRIP & RE-TILE PORCHES STORM DAMAGE FULL FASCIA & SOFFIT REPLACEMENT WE ARE FULLY INSURED GET YOUR FREE QUOTE Give us a call today on: 01367 821 108 or 07769 945 779 Email us on lisa@ppfroofing.co.uk www.ppfroofing.co.uk

| The Advertiser | page 25 |

Experts - Local Services We do all types of tree work including pruning, Planting and felling, as well as hedge trimming and stump removal.

Call Gregg on 01865 430536 or 07823 332247 gregg@allseasonstrees.com www.allseasonstrees.com

Ohm Electrix Electrical services and Installations ● ● ● ● ●

Fully qualified and insured electrician.

All types of domestic work undertaken, from small jobs to garden and garage power, to full rewires.

Commercial and Solar PV work also catered for.

Friendly, professional service, locally based.

Contact us to discuss your needs, and get a free, no obligation estimate and advice.

Phone Gary:

07879 013359

e: Ohm.Electrix@Gmail.com www.ohm-electrix.co.uk

JOE PEARCE PLASTERING 07709960598 jplasterer3@gmail.com All internal plasterwork,Traditional lime plastering, External rendering & specialist finishes

DENBOER WINES . TASTINGS . EVENTS

07919 241881 donnarogers@denboerwines.com

denboerwines.com

Keratin Hair Treatment No more frizzy hair!

Homeopathy

Keratin…

Smooth, silky, shiny & tangle-free hair Lasts 3 - 4 months, only £70 Call Jane @ Tangles Lechlade 01367 252374 or 07788156438

Society of Homeopaths

GENTLE EFFECTIVE HOLISTIC THERAPY Daytime & Evening Appointments Clinics in Uffington and Wantage Heather Abel BA/BSc RSHom Tel: 01367 820709 www.homeopathy-oxfordshire.co.uk

Multi - Hands Cleaning Services Window Cleaning - Gutter Cleaning Pressure Washing - Solar Panel Cleaning - Free Quotes Call 01993 866087 or 07917714570 Reliable Professional Uniformed Staff

New!

ianthechippydyble@gmail.com Phone: 01865 820565 / 07974886840

Monika Becker H.P Holistic Practitioner

07742 982757 Grove Technology Park Downsview Road Boston House, Unit 7 Wantage, Oxon OX12 9FF

Now Available Wednesdays 12:45 to 4:45pm Lotus Retreat, Faringdon. groveclinicoxon@gmail.com www.grovewellnessclinic.net

Now moved to Bampton Garden Plants call Sarah on

07767 486627

The Advertiser is produced by Lou Guthrie published by The Advertiser Magazine Ltd Tel: 07894 554551. All artwork designed by us is the copyright of The Advertiser Magazine Ltd 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 The Advertiser Magazine Ltd . The information published in the advertisements and other articles is supplied and approved by advertisers. The Advertiser Magazine Ltd 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 The Advertiser Magazine Ltd prior to publication.

| The Advertiser | page 26 |

| The Advertiser | page 27 |

Managing & Creating the Perfect Home Workspace

Working from home used to be code for taking it easy and was particularly useful after a late night or if you are taking delivery of a large item. Today, in the age of the Internet, it is so much easier to connect to the office and engage with clients and colleagues from any location.

The commute across the hallway from kitchen to study takes no time at all and is relatively stress-free. Tea or coffee will not cost you ÂŁ3.00 every time and the lunchtime options are plentiful and queue-free. Being at home tends to allow for more creative working without being stifled or conscious of those around you. You will also be doing your little bit for the environment with fewer car or train journeys.

The downside to this is that if everywhere is a potential office then there is the risk that nowhere feels like home.

Whilst working from home does definitely have its benefits, it is worth considering the following to make sure you maximise your time and workspace.

1. Manage Your Time - Just because technology allows you to work 24 hours a day, set yourself clear work-time objectives, factoring in breaks and moments to stretch your legs and get away from the screen. When planning your day, be clear on when the endpoint is and work towards it.

2. Get Dressed - Working from home is not an excuse to slob about in pyjamas with daytime television on in the background. It is also not the opportunity to have social calls, just because you are at home, it does not mean neighbours can drop in for a coffee.

3. Create A Work Space - In an ideal world, your home working space will be a separate room be it a formal study, spare bedroom, loft or garage space. Understanding that this is not always practical, it is not unusual to find people working out of the corner of their bedroom or on the dining table. If you do have a separate room, at the end of your working day, close the door and do not venture back into the following day. If your workspace is a bit more temporary, be sure your pack and clear everything away so you can reclaim your space for it permanent function.

4. Daylight & Fresh Air - One of the advantages of being away from an office is access to natural light and not being in an air-conditioned environment. So take advantage of not being under fluorescent tubes and when you take a break, take a couple of moments to step outside.

5. Be Visible & Stay Connected - Working from home does not mean you become invisible so make sure colleagues can see that you are online and use emailing, messaging and the telephone to stay in the loop.

Working from home should be a fun experience that helps creativity and productivity.

Jenny Preece

| The Advertiser | page 28 |