Marlborough Town and Country December 18

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TOWN & COUNTRY

People

• Emily Rawlinson Independent Celebrant

Local News Features • Christmas Gift Ideas • Prospect Fundraiser • Council News

• Annabel Czyba • Puppy Love • Classic car review

PEOPLE | FEATURES | NEWS | WHAT’S ON | COMMUNITY INFORMATION

FREE Issue 128 . December 2018


Christmas gifts now in: Cushions Lamps Candles Throws Ornaments etc! The Parade Marlborough SN8 1NE 01672 513491

www.dandrfurnishers.co.uk


Merry Christmas!

So, although this is the December issue, it’s not quite December yet. Even so, unless you are of the “Bah humbug! Don’t mention Christmas until it’s December” persuasion, I’m sure Christmas is on your mind and Christmas Planning is well under way. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you a warm and wonderful festive season, and lots of joy and love. Thank you for reading Marlborough Town and Country over the past year, I hope you continue to enjoy it. We’ve lots to read this month as usual – our interview this month is with Emily Rawlinson, who is an Independent Celebrant. I really enjoyed meeting Emily, whose job I find fascinating – I think it must be lovely to have a job that entails helping people celebrate special moments in their lives, both happy and sad. Read all about her on page 6/7. You can find Christmas gift ideas, a reminder of how to keep your pets safe at Christmas, the perils of a new puppy around the Christmas tree, and lots more. Thank you too to all my lovely advertisers who enable me to bring the magazine to you. Merry Christmas one and all!

Editor Contact us: Andrea Jerome Address: Ivydene, High St, Wanborough, SN4 0AD Tel: 01793 791104 Mob: 07836 580699 Email: andrea.jerome@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk All copy for January 19 issue is due by 6th December 2018.

Contents 3 Intro 6 Emily Rawlinson 8 Gift Ideas 10 Local News 13 Council News 16 Fiona’s Column

18 Child Counselling 22 What’s On 24 Community Information 26 Inheritance advice 34 Classic Car 36 Pets at Christmas

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Christmas at The Merchant’s House Shop Come and visit our Christmas room in the panelled chamber upstairs. We’ll have something for all the family and stunning decorations too. Our opening times: Mondays - Saturdays, 9.30am to 5pm, Sundays from 4 November 11am - 4pm. Late night Friday 30 November until 8pm We look forward to welcoming you and hope that you will be inspired by the wide variety of gifts on offer

511690 www.themerchantshouse.co.uk

Items shown subject to availability

shopmanager@merchantshousetrust.co.uk 01672

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To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk


Christmas has arrived at Radish Loves Kids in Marlborough

Items shown subject to availability

Children’s Gifts | Clothing | Interiors | Party

T. 01672 289082 15/16 Hughenden Yard Marlborough (just off the high street) SN8 1LT Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm and Sunday 10am - 4pm www.radishloves.com


People

Emily Rawlinson Emily Rawlinson is an award-winning Independent Celebrant. She lives in Marlborough with her husband Gus, and their cat Holly. Tell us about yourself I grew up in Seaford in Sussex, by the sea. After University I started a career in Social Care working with vulnerable adults. Over ten years I worked my way up to managing several care homes, but by that time had become disillusioned with the job. When I started, it was all about the people, but over time as government cuts started to bite, the focus was on money, which I felt was untenable. I was rather stressed, and decided I needed a complete change – I decided to train to teach English as a foreign language, and after I qualified a job came up in China, and off I went. I was based in Huizhou in Guangdong Province – a bustling city. I had a fantastic time there teaching children between 4 and 16. It was an interesting experience being “different” as a Westerner with blue eyes and a “big nose”! Being stared at a lot took some getting used to. I came back to the UK in 2014 for my sister’s wedding, and sadly my father died suddenly soon after. This changed things and I decided to stay at home permanently as I wanted to be near my family. An eventful year in many ways, I also met Gus in 2014. Soon after I embarked upon my career as a Celebrant. What inspired you to become a Celebrant? My sister wanted to get married on a farm, which didn’t have a licence for weddings (unsurprisingly). She decided to get married legally in a low key way, and then have a wedding on the farm. She asked me to conduct the celebration (she said she wanted to be sure I came home from China!). I did some research on how to go about it, and really enjoyed the experience of the day. My research showed that people did this as a job, so I decided to train as an Independent Celebrant. I soon became a member of the Association of Independent Celebrants, which is lovely as it means I can keep up with what is happening in the industry, and meet others who do the same job as I do. What does an Independent Celebrant do? Essentially, I officiate at ceremonies that celebrate special times in people’s lives, both happy and sad. So weddings, civil partnerships, naming ceremonies and funerals, I have even conducted a ceremony to welcome an adopted child into a family. The ceremonies are not legal – so any legal

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I’ve married a couple at the top of a mountain in Spain. Keen paragliders, the plan was to paraglide down the mountain afterwards, but unfortunately the wind was in the wrong direction. requirements for weddings or civil partnerships need to be done separately. (I always advise my couples to treat this as a celebration too, as most people find it has more of an impact than just signing a piece of paper) I work with couples and families to find out what they want, and what they want included as part of their ceremony. Often couples will use a celebrant because they want to get married in a particular place or time that wouldn’t be possible with a registrar. Also, they want a bespoke service that is unique to them and not subject to time constraints. Often people are not particularly religious, but if they want to include elements from their religion I am happy to accommodate that if I can. I have done handfasting ceremonies, wine ceremonies – I’m open to discussion. What was your first ceremony? It was a wedding – I was contacted by a couple whose planned celebrant had to pull out through illness and they were getting married the following week! Not only that, when I arrived for the initial meeting they didn’t turn up – their house had flooded, and they were dealing with raw sewage. It turned out well in the end – as it was such a short timescale I didn’t have time to get nervous. Luckily, things go much more smoothly normally! Is there a typical person that would use a Celebrant? I don’t think so, although in the Summer I do find myself around Tepees, in woodland or fields a lot! That said, this weekend I am conducting a wedding at Hedsor House, a grand venue in Buckinghamshire where everyone will be wearing

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People Black Tie – so there’s a huge variety of people. What sort of person do you think you need to be to be a Celebrant? You need to be calm under pressure, able to exude serenity whatever is going on! It’s important to be solution focused, not problem focused. It’s absolutely essential to like people of all sorts, and care about making their ceremonies special. It’s also important to be detached, without being uncaring. The last thing anybody needs is for their celebrant to be overly emotional – you’re there to ensure that the subject of the day is the focus, not you. This is especially true at funerals, but for all ceremonies I practice ahead of time, and ensure I know all the music etc so that I know what to expect and am ready for it. Writing skills are vital too, as I need to be able to write a script for each ceremony particularly suited in style and content for that event. For weddings I often need to give tips to the happy couple for writing their vows, most people have never done anything like it before. You recently won an award, tell us about that For the last two years, Civil Ceremonies Ltd has run a Celebrant Convention to which all celebrants are invited. They run annual awards, and I entered Outstanding Celebrancy Practice for Family and Couples. This involved being nominated by the couples and families that I had worked with over the past year, which happily they were delighted to do. It was a huge honour to win, and completely unexpected as there were a lot of entrants. Have you ever had to deal with any major problems? Luckily, nothing too major. I’ve had forgotten bouquets, wardrobe malfunctions,

punctuality problems, and once had to deal with a very noisy cement mixer delivering to a construction site nearby at precisely the wrong moment. (Sometimes you just have to wait a few minutes!) Any unusual ceremonies? I’ve married a couple at the top of a mountain in Spain. Keen paragliders, the plan was to paraglide down the mountain afterwards, but unfortunately the wind was in the wrong direction. That wedding was delayed because on the morning of the big day the mountain was shrouded in mist. Once it cleared the weather was absolutely beautiful and the location was amazing – despite no paragliding! Another involved a couple who wanted to renew their vows on their tenth wedding anniversary. Nothing unusual in that, but they were admirers of the Addams Family and had decided to dress as Morticia and Gomez for the ceremony. They asked if I would enter into the spirt, so I conducted the ceremony dressed as Wednesday Addams. That was different, but very enjoyable. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I used to be very keen on paragliding (the couple on top of the mountain were friends of mine), but unfortunately after a nasty skiing accident at the beginning of this year where I broke my hip, I’ve been advised not to do that anymore. I still enjoy kite surfing though, which isn’t quite as risky. I also enjoy going to the gym, and go to the Fitness Studio in Marlborough. I enjoy spending time with my sisters and nephews and nieces, who range in age from 18months to 11 years old. When I get chance I enjoy a visit to Rejuvenesce in Marlborough, they do a lovely facial.

Do you like shopping locally? I love Marlborough High St, it has a great range of shops, and is always bustling. I love a good browse in the charity shops, and often pick up a bargain. Where do you like to eat out? We love Number 7 on Kingsbury Street, and also enjoy eating at The Marlborough, near St Peter’s Church. Do you enjoy reading? I love reading, and often it can provide inspiration for my writing. Not so much the latest book I’ve read though, it was a psychological thriller - A Simple Favour by Darcey Bell. I’d recommend it as it had lots of twists and turns and kept me guessing. What about music? I confess to being a Robbie Williams fan – I’ve been to see him in concert a few times over the years with my older sister. It’s interesting how the audience has changed over the years. I also love Michael Bublé, particularly at Christmas. What do you like to watch? At this time of year you can’t beat a good box set on Netflix or iPlayer. Recently we’ve watched the American comedy The Good Place, and have enjoyed dramas like Killing Eve and The Bodyguard. Plans for Christmas? I love Christmas – I always get the biggest tree possible, and love lots of lights and candles. Last year we did Christmas here with my family so was lovely and social. I love giving presents, and making a traditional Christmas cake (even though not that many of my family eat Christmas cake!) I love the joy of the occasion, can’t wait for this year. If you would like to find out more about what Emily does you can contact her on Emily.celebrant@gmail.com, or call 07507 136280

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Christmas

Christmas Gift Ideas If you’re not one of the 20% of people that have reportedly done all their Christmas Shopping by the end of October (I wonder how many of them are men – less than 5% I suspect!), then your Christmas Shopping is probably in full swing. If you are looking for a little inspiration, here are a few ideas from our regular advertisers to help you. The Merchant’s House Shop in Marlborough have a wide range of gifts and decorations, with an expanded range for Christmas in their panelled room upstairs. Something for all the family, with a great choice of gifts or those difficult to buy for men. If you are looking for something for the home, then artistic gifts are a great idea – pop along to Wagon Yard Artists (off London Rd) on the weekend of 30 Nov, 1/2 Dec to see their Christmas Exhibition. A fabulous choice of paintings, ceramics, glass and lamps, including Christmas decorations are available. Also for the home, D & R Furnishers on The Parade has a myriad of gift ideas – cushions, lamps, candles, throws, ornaments – pop in for a browse during the week for some inspiration. For children, Radish Loves Kids, in Hughenden Yard, Marlborough (walk through WHSmith and turn left), has a fabulous range of

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children’s gifts, clothing and party products. Popular brands such as Maileg, Rockahula, Pigeon Organics and Mimi and Lula, to name but a few are to be found. A great selection for boys and girls, with a strong range of stocking fillers. For your pampered pet, head along to Marlborough Pets on London Rd, where you’ll find a regular Aladdin’s Cave of pet products, including a fantastic range of Christmas themed gifts – fluffy Christmas Pudding dog toy anyone? Tags, chew toys, mugs (for the humans), treats, beds, scratching posts – everything your precious pet could desire! If wellbeing is their thing, pop next door to the Pet shop to The Wellbeing Clinic on London Rd? As well as gift vouchers for a pampering experience, or maybe a face reading, the Health Food Shop has a nice selection of gifts. Marlborough is a lovely place for Christmas shopping – don’t forget the Christmas Lights Switch On event too on November 30th, many shops will be open late and there’s a Christmas Market as part of the festivities. Enjoy!

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Your rights at Christmas With Christmas nearly upon us and the spending sprees in full flow do we as consumers really know our rights when it comes to the supply of goods? Did you know that in 2015 The Consumer Rights Act (CRA) replaced both the Sale of Goods Act 1979 and the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982, and created a simpler, more modern form of consumer rights legislation fit for the technological age. Under the CRA, consumers have more statutory rights in relation to the quality and standard of goods and services they buy, as well as a wider range of remedies when things go wrong. The CRA requires businesses who supply goods and services to consumers to comply with a number of statutory requirements: • Goods must be of satisfactory quality: goods bought must not be faulty or damaged on receipt. The test of whether goods are of satisfactory quality is, what would a reasonable person consider to be satisfactory in relation to those goods? • Goods must be fit for purpose: ie. fit for the purpose for which they

are supplied, including any specific purpose explained to the trader when the goods were purchased. • Goods and services must be as described: they must, for instance, match a sample or model seen by the consumer before purchase. • Goods must be properly and correctly installed. • Services must be supplied with reasonable care and skill. If when you get your purchase home it does not meet any of the above requirements then your supplier has committed a breach of contract and you have certain remedies available to you: • An early right to reject the goods within 30 days and to obtain a full refund. It is for the business to collect the goods at its own cost – the consumer does not have to pay to return the goods; • The right to one repair or replacement within 30 days, at cost to the business (including postage, labour and materials, unless this is disproportionate

to the cost of other remedies available); • Thereafter, the right to a price reduction or the right to reject and receive a refund outside the 30 days (with a deduction for any use by the consumer) if not acceptable (or possible) repair or replacement takes place within 30 days. Please note that the CRA does not apply to business to business contracts, or to consumer to consumer contracts. For business to business contracts it is always best to seek legal advice. Merry Christmas from all of us at Marlborough Law.

Straightforward, no-nonsense legal advice Tel 01672 552552 www.marlborough-law.com karen.salmon@marlborough-law.com alex.atkins@marlborough-law.com

Marlborough Law Elcot Park Elcot Lane Marlborough SN8 2BG


Local News

Marlborough Remembers Thousands turned out for commemorations to mark the centenary of the end of WW1. A weekend of events including the laying of wreaths at the 7th Wiltshire Regiment War Memorial, laying of poppies on Commonwealth War Graves at the cemeteries and a Roll of Honour tribute evening at the Town Hall. The sun shone down on the High Street on Sunday, 11 November as Phoenix Brass led the Parade to the War Memorial at New Road. More than 100 soldiers from the 4th Military Intelligence Battalion marched behind them in front of the Town Council, Royal British Legion, Royal Navy Association, Cadets, Wiltshire Police, the Dorset

& Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service, Churches Together, Scouts, Guides, Brownies and many, many, more. After wreath laying and a 2 minutes silence, over 400 people attended a special service in St Mary’s Church. The whole weekend culminated in a beacon being lit on The Common by Marlborough’s Mayor as part of the national Battle’s Over campaign. This included a bugler sounding the Last Post, the Town Crier reading a Cry for Peace, names of Marlborough’s fallen from the Great War were read out with St Mary’s Church bells ringing out in the background. A proud and poignant commemoration.

Award Winning Pet Food & Accessories Shop Open: Mon to Sat 9am - 5pm 5 London Rd, Marlborough

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The Greyhound

Cooper’s Meadow Play Area

just over £50,000 and has been funded mainly through developers S106 contributions and payments from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). Creative Play (UK) Ltd won the contract to build it through a competitive tendering process. Coopers Meadow is a wonderful open space for the whole community and now it has a fabulous play area for young families and their children to have fun in.

On Friday, 2 November and appropriately during the half term holiday, our Town Mayor, Cllr Lisa Farrell, used a pair of golden scissors to cut a bright red ribbon and declare our re-designed and upgraded play area open. Lots of children and their parents and carers dashed in to try out the new, exciting equipment which includes swings, a jungle climber, a firefighter’s pole, climbing ladder, slides and more. The winter sunshine added to it all and it was clear that our young customers gave their new play area the big thumbs up. It was all the more enjoyable for children and their families with free face painting and goody bags to take away. Coopers Meadow has strong connections to the Cooper family and Cllr Mark Cooper, Chairman of the Amenities & Opens Spaces Committee, played in the meadow himself when growing up. His parents, Maurice and Rosemary Cooper (a former Mayor and Mayoress) came along to watch the opening ceremony too. The Town Council is delighted to have been able to secure the funds for this much-needed facility. The play area cost

Christmas Lights Switch-on This year’s event takes place on Friday, 30 November. There’ll be a Christmas Market, children’s fairground rides, stage performances from the Community Choir, Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama, local band, The Vooz and more - all compered by radio presenter, Mark Jones. Television presenter, Paul Martin will be switching on the lights at 6.30pm alongside our Mayor who’ll be announcing Marlborough’s Citizen of the Year. Another VIP, Father Christmas, will be in his Grotto from 3pm – 8pm. Book your visit in advance at

www.rotarysanta2018.eventbrite.co.uk

There’ll be road closure in place to make sure everyone is safe which will affect the High Street, parts of Kingsbury Street and New Road between 3pm-9pm

Council grant cheque for £708 which will be used towards a respite holiday for disabled people from Marlborough.

Revitalise, a national charity, provides respite care in a holiday setting for disabled people and carers. It also offers inspirational opportunities for volunteers through one of the largest and most diverse volunteering programmes of any UK charity. More information about how to apply for a Town Council grant can be found on our website. www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk

A Happy Christmas! Town Councillors and staff wish all readers a very happy Christmas.

Grant Awards Last month, our Mayor was very happy to meet Ewa Sojka of Revitialise to hand over a Town

Christmas and New Year Opening - The Town Council offices will be closed from 4.pm on Friday, 21 December 2018 and re-open at 10am on Wednesday 2 January 2019. Comments and enquiries to the council are always welcome, you can contact us on:- Tel: 01672 512487 Email: enquiries@marlborough-tc.gov.uk Web: www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk

FRIDAY 30 NOVEMBER LIGHTS ON AT 6.30

Official news from Marlborough Town Council

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS EVENT 1313


Lifestyle

From one House to another! Having worked at The Merchant’s House Shop in Marlborough for the last six years, Shop Manager Annabel Czyba is leaving at Christmas to concentrate on another House. Anyone who knows Annabel will tell you how stylish and effortlessly elegant she is, so it is no surprise to learn that from the New Year Annabel will be focusing on her role as an Image Consultant and Personal Stylist for House of Colour. “For the last six years I have worked at The Merchant’s House as Shop Manager, and also run my House of Colour business. I have loved managing the shop, but it has got to the stage where I needed to choose between that and House of Colour.” The Merchant’s House Shop is a lovely gift shop, with a fabulous range of gifts for all the family. It really comes into its own at this time of year with the opening of the Christmas Room in the panelled room upstairs. “We set up the room for the beginning of November, and then we are open 7 days a week until Christmas” explains Annabel “It takes us a good four days to set up the room, but once it’s done it looks magnificent. We try to ensure that you’ll find something different to elsewhere in the town, with a good choice for everyone, including men (who are notoriously difficult to buy for). I’ve met so many lovely people, there is a fantastic group of volunteers, and I will miss working with my colleagues – we have made an excellent team. It’s good to be leaving at Christmas, as I will feel I am going out on a high!” Being able to focus on House of Colour full time will give Annabel a lot more flexibility. “I will have chance to get out and meet people more, to show them how House of Colour can help them.” For those who aren’t familiar, the usual entry point to House of Colour is Colour Analysis, where using drapes of colour a consultant identifies which colours work with your skin tone and hair to bring out the best in you. “I first became interested in House of Colour when I met a friend I hadn’t seen for some time, and she looked completely transformed. She

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said it had changed her life, and was going to train as a consultant and suggested I did too. I was intrigued, and went off to have my colours done. My background firstly as a model in the late 70s early 80s, and then as a teacher at the London School of Fashion meant I was well suited to the role. After having my colours analysed, I decided House of Colour was for me. “I have always found it really rewarding helping people make the best of themselves. Often, having their colours done not only makes people look good, but it boosts their confidence, which can often spill over into other areas of their lives. I know when I first had mine done I was at a bit of a low ebb, and the class really did restore my confidence and verve. “As well as having your colours done, I can help people revitalise their wardrobe with the right styles for them, wearing the right shapes and styles for your body is the partner to having the right colours. Older readers may remember “What not to Wear” or Gok Wan’s “How to look good naked” – essentially, I do the same thing for my clients. It’s not about having a huge range of clothes - it’s about having the right ones When everything in your wardrobe works with everything else – life becomes so much easier!” If you are interested in finding out more about House of Colour you can contact Annabel at annabel.czyba@houseofcolour.co.uk or telephone 01793 814276.

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk


RUTH KOLISH, Travel Counsellor

Your personal Travel Expert Travel, tailor made for you, with care. ruth.kolish@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ruth.kolish 01672 83 82 80

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Lifestyle

Puppy Love I mock my husband for his obsession with buying washing up liquid. He always panics that there won’t be enough in the house, yet, quite frankly, we have stocks enough to wash up for the next millennium. I would never be so daft...would I? Well, yes, in fact, I would. I have discovered that my obsession is Christmas baubles. I am totally addicted to them, to the extent that a few years ago I had to have two trees to take them all. Worse still, one set is now colour coordinated with my living room and very chic, whilst the others have memories of childhood and are all colours of the rainbow, some glass, some tin and some needle felted. I love them all and could not possibly part with any. The trees, too, have to be the largest possible, almost taking the room over and requiring total reorganisation of furniture. The magical time for me is getting my several Christmas boxes out of the loft and opening the layers of tissue paper and bubble wrap. I have a short memory, so often forget the baubles that I have. (My poor Husband has to heave more and more “Christmas” boxes up the loft year on year) Each October half term, I also buy more baubles from a lovely Cornish shop - no thought at all as to where they will go, of course. The magpie in me takes over completely and anything that sparkles goes into my shopping basket. This year, however, I have a new problem in the mix. How will my tree(s) and baubles last with a puppy in the house? About ten years ago we had a new kitten and the tree had to be re-erected four times as it was used as a fun climbing frame by said little minx. My adventurous little pug, Mabel will, no doubt, be up the tree like a shot. Couple this also with the fun that my children had posting a video of me on social media whilst lying on my front last year under the tree, trying to put it up, holding the stalk and shouting “is it straight?” whilst they laughed and videoed me instead of actually straightening the tree. Mabel the pug arrived a few weeks before my recent significant birthday, a total

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surprise from my Husband and children. I wasn’t aware that I wanted a puppy or indeed a pug, but it took one look for my heart to melt, despite the fact that the old chestnut “a puppy is for life and not just for Christmas” rings so true – it’s almost like being a new parent again. Mabel is adorable and already rules the household, so how do I juggle adorable pug and adorable baubles? The practical voice in me says don’t have a tree or have it somewhere where Mabel can’t get to it. My heart says otherwise. What’s the point of having a tree if you can’t appreciate it? So, I choose both. Bring on the chaos and bring on the baubles. If the tree falls over, then it will provide the children with more fodder and footage for a social media laugh at my expense. Imagine though, if they sold footage to “You’ve been Framed” just how many more baubles or bottles of washing up liquid would that buy us! Fiona Kellow Fiona Kellow is a working mum of two. When she isn’t running around after her family she is a Partner at Thrings Solicitors, specialising in family law.

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GREAT RELATIONSHIPS DON’T GROW ON TREES 1 The Green, Marlborough, SN8 1AL Tel: 01672 512204 www.thrings.com

THRINGS SOLICITORS

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Wellbeing

Are you worried about your child? Are you worried about your child’s emotional well-being? As an experienced practitioner I have worked with children and young people 0-18, parents and professionals for many years. Our children and young people are very aware of what is going on in the world and may experience huge amounts of worry and upset about their future and often worry about their friendships and academic achievements. 1 in 5 children are struggling with their mental wellbeing and if they do not receive the right support this can develop into a more persistent difficulty: when children experience too much stress or sustained worry it can make them feel low in mood. Children often need a trusted adult to talk to so they can feel steady and open to receiving support. I feel strongly that sharing wisdom and strategies to promote emotional wellbeing is important in reducing distress and anxiety, improving mood and helping children develop a strong sense of identity. By listening, reassuring and providing a balance of emotional and practical support children can easily learn to manage their difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviour. More than this, our children can start to connect with their own internal wisdom, start to feel settled and clearer about their path through life. The most important thing to offer can sometimes be the simplest; a space to feel heard and valued. I work with any issue that is preventing a child or young person to develop the strength they need to achieve their best, such as anxiety, low mood, difficult feelings, challenging behaviour, loss,

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coping with stress, poor sleep and friendship difficulties. I have worked effectively with children who have concerns about their identity and provide a safe, non-judgemental space so children and young people can gain confidence and begin to feel a strong sense of identity. Case study: I recently offered an anxious child a series of sessions alongside her mother to support them both in reducing anxiety. I included psycho-social education around the physical responses to worry, strategies to calm the body, parenting techniques to reinforce positive coping skills and a guided meditation/mindfulness session to help the child connect with internal resilience and strengthen their self-belief. In 4 sessions this family had their balance and emotional wellbeing back, they were all sleeping better, had a deeper understanding of the impact of stress and worry and felt more confident about managing difficult feelings in the future. In a world which is full of uncertainty and limited resources I feel strongly that we need to create a sense of hope and positive energy to support our children and young people to go into a future with the knowledge and skills they need to maintain resilience and feel confident in managing their physical and emotional wellbeing. In doing this I aim to contribute to the mental health of future generations/care-takers of our planet to develop strong roots and responsibility in themselves, their communities and our earth. Aimee Georgeson BSc Hons Psych, BA Hons SW, PGDip CFMH.

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Clinic and Health Food Shop

 Meditation  Energy

and Lifestyle Workshops  Reiki School  Professional practitioners  Nutritional and diet advice  Mind and body therapies  Spiritual and life guidance  Physical therapies  Real people for real advice 4 London Road, Marlborough, SN8 1PH

01672 513583

"Get back to the real you" Aimee Georgeson Children's Emotional Wellbeing Worker

Illustration www.catherinebrockhurst.com

www.thewellbeingclinic.org

Empowering children & young people 0-18 to develop strong emotional wellbeing. A highly qualified and experienced clinician with many years experience Aimee works with issues such as anxiety, low mood, exam stress, loss, traumatic stress, sleep, behaviour, anger, parenting and relationships. Get in touch:

Jill Sudbury The Wellbeing Clinic 4 London Road Marlborough 07973 951 286

jill.sudbury@btinternet.com

Bespoke training & consultation regarding child and adolescent mental health is available to professionals working with children across the UK. To discuss your concerns or book an appointment Tel: 01672 13583 or email info@thewellbeingclinic.org

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What’s On

What’s On December 2018 Charity Christmas Card Sale Date: Until midDecember daily 10-4 Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough The annual sale of charity Christmas cards by Cards for Good Causes begins and runs through until mid-December - wonderful opportunities to help deserving causes by buying cards and other Christmas bits and pieces.

Merchant’s House Lecture Date: Thursday 29 November, 7 for 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough

Wagon Yard Artists Christmas Exhibition Date: Mulled wine and nibbles Fri 30 Nov, 6-9pm, Sat 1-Sun 2 December 10am-4pm, Venue: Wagon Yard Studio, Wagon Yard, SN8 1HL Buy unique gifts for Christmas, also open 9-10 December. www.wagonyardartists.co.uk

Winter Fair Date: Sat 1 December, 2-4pm Venue: Ogbourne Primary School, Ogbourne St George We’ll have mulled wine, mince pies, Santa’s grotto amongst others

Marlborough Concert Orchestra Date: Saturday 1 December, 7.30pm Venue: St Mary’s Church, Marlborough Featuring works by Rachmaninov, Dvořák, Grieg and Bartók. Tickets £10 adults, £2 students. Available from Sound Knowledge or on the door. Licensed bar. www.mco.org.uk

Christmas Craft and Gift Market Date: Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 December, 10-4pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Thousands of gifts to choose from. Free entry, donations for Mayor’s Charity welcome. 01749 677049

David Evans talks about artistic depictions of the Adoration of the Magi - a perfect subject to get you in the mood for Christmas

Christmas Lights Switch On Date: Friday 30 November Venue: Marlborough Town Hall and High Street Christmas Market 10am – 8pm, Children’s rides 5pm onwards, Meet Father Christmas and more. More details at www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk or see page 13.

St Agnes Fountain

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To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk


What’s On Burbage Christmas Tree Sale and Market Date: Saturday 8 (9-4.30) and Sunday 9 December (9-2) Venue: All Saints Church, Burbage The annual sale and market. A huge selection of British Christmas Trees and 50 Local crafts and business people selling their wares. Music and refreshments

Marlborough Choral Society Christmas Concert Date: Saturday 8 December, 7:30 pm Venue: St Mary’s Church, Marlborough

Marlborough Folk-Roots concert: St Agnes Fountain Date: Friday 14 December, 8pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall, Wiltshire SN8 1JE

Including Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, Vivaldi’s Magnificat and Bob Chilcott’s Wenceslas. Tickets £10 (adults) from Sound Knowledge, choir members, or on the door

The traditional start to the Christmas season with brilliant singer songwriters Chris While Julie Matthews, fiddler Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and raconteur David Hughes. Always great fun and musically excellent. Tickets £20 from 01672 512465, Sound Knowledge at Hughenden Yard, Marlborough, or online at

www.marlboroughchoralsociety.org.uk

St Peter’s Trust 40th Birthday Tea Party Date: Thursday 13th December at 4.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough This is by invitation only, but we would like to invite anyone who has had a connection with St Peter’s when it was a functioning church (married/baptised there; sang in the choir; rang the bells etc.) so if you are that person or know someone who is please get in touch (du. croz@btinternet.com 0r 01672511725) so that we can send you an invitation.

www.marlboroughfolk-roots.co.uk

Carol Service Date: Saturday 15 December, 4pm Venue: Marlborough College Chapel Opened by a combined school choir followed by local choirs from Pewsey and Great Bedwyn together with professional soloists, will be performing in a programme of Christmas music including the familiar carols and

readings we associate with this time of the year. Tickets are £10 for adults, free for children under 12, and can be purchased from Kim Vine (Ladies Fashions) and The White Horse Bookshop both of High Street, Marlborough, or on the door if available. All proceeds from the concert will be donated to Hope and Homes for Children, a Wiltshire based charity whose vision is for a world in which children no longer suffer institutional care. For more information contact Alison on 01672 562777.

A Marlborough Christmas Date: Saturday 16 December, 10-4pm Venue: Marlborough College, SN8 1LP Over 40 gift stalls, festive food and drink, music and choirs, Santa’s Magic Garden. Entry minimum donation £3, under 12s FREE. All proceeds shared between Cancer Research UK, Prospect Hospice and Brighter Futures Radiotherapy appeal.

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Community Information

Community Information These pages detail useful local numbers and community groups. If you have a group or society you would like featured here please telephone 01793 791104 or email aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Local Societies and Groups Air Cadets (2293 Marlborough Squadron) Marlborough Air cadets welcome all young people aged 13-18 who are interested in Aviation and Adventure: Parade nights Tues and Fri 1900-2130 Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ 2293MarlboroughAirCadets Email 2293@aircadets.org 01672 516811 Dance Classes in Marlborough Ballroom and Latin American dance classes, and for those with no partner Dancersize sessions. Please contact Amanda on 07882-882030 or email learntodance@mac.com for more info Depression Alliance The Marlborough and District SELF-HELP GROUP meets the first Tuesday of every month. If you’ve got depression, or know someone who might benefit from being part of our group, please get in touch. Call 0845 123 23 20 for location details. Stained Glass Lessons. Wed.& Thurs morning 9.30-11.30. Mon.Tues.& Wed evening 7-9. Suitable for all, learn stained glass or kiln-formed glass. Held at; Ogbourne St. George. Contact jeannette 07977 053363 or jet@jeannettetherrien.com Girl Guides Meet Tuesdays during term times at Manton Village Hall 1st Marlborough Rainbows, 4.45-5.45pm, Contact fryrachel@yahoo.co.uk 1st Marlborough Guides, 6-7.30pm Contact firstmarlboroughguides@gmail.com Jubilee Centre Day Centre (Mon, Tues and Fri) and Drop-in Centre (Wed and Thurs - Lunch served 12.30pm £5.00) for over sixties. For more information phone Carole Walkeron 01672 513087 Kennet Accordion Orchestra Meets on Monday night from 7.30pm, in Froxfield and has a wide playing base of players from Swindon through Marlborough to Newbury and encourage accordion players of all standards to join and enjoy a varied selection of music from pop through to classics. The current Southern Area Champions and established throughout the region for its diverse repertoire. Contact Nigel Pasby A.B.C.A.(t.d.) L.B.C.A. on 07894032757 or email nigelpasby@gmail.com For more information go to www.kennetaccordionorchestra.com

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Kennet Badminton Club We are a friendly club fielding six teams in the Swindon and District Badminton League. We have accredited coaches, a competitive player base and a friendly social aspect. Club nights are held on Mondays from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm throughout the winter at St. John’s Academy, Marlborough. New members are welcome. For more information please visit www.kennetbc.co.uk or contact Kennet Badminton Club Secretary on 01672 515526 Kennet Community Transport KTC runs a minibus with tail lift for people for whom normal transport is impractical. Contact the driver on 07850 356572 or Alexander Kirk Wilson on 01672 513861 Kennet Valley Driving Group RDA carriage driving for adults (16+) with physical disabilities. New volunteers and participants welcome. Sessions on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Rockley. For more info call the Secretary, Maggie Lewis, on 0846 241 5396 or email kennetvalleydrivinggroup@gmail.com Kennet Valley National Trust Association Monthly meetings with speakers on a variety of subjects, summer outings to interesting places and social events. For more information please call Ann King (Chair) on 01380 727130 or Rhona Wilkinson (Membership Secretary) 01380 726433 Learn To Play Bridge Lessons for Absolute Beginners & Improvers Friendly club sessions also available Marlborough Area, No Partner needed Friendly relaxed atmosphere Please contact Andy Hill for further details and availability 01380 724725 Line dancing Meet every Tuesday (except August) at St John’s School, Marlborough Class runs 7-10 pm and covers beginners through to advanced Contact Natasha on 07917 806019 or natasha67@hotmail.couk Marlborough Accordion Orchestra Rehearsals on Monday in Wesley Hall Marlborough. Training Orchestra 6.30p.m. / Main Orchestra 7.30 p.m. New and experienced players of all ages welcome. M.D. David Watson. Contact 01672 512634 Marlborough and District Link Scheme Marlborough Link is a charity dedicated to assisting the disadvantaged members of our community, whether because of age, physical or mental disability, poverty or absence of public transport.If you need us, or if you would like to help please telephone 01672 288007. Marlborough Brandt Group MBG is best known for its 30 year link with and support for the Muslim community of Gunjur in The Gambia, West Africa. If you are interested in becoming a friend, volunteering or visiting Gunjur for an extraordinary experience please contact us 01672861116, or info@mbg.org or visit www.mbg.org

To advertise To advertise please please call 01793 call 791104 01793 791104 or email: or ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk



Community Information Marlborough Choral Society Rehearses on Monday 7.45 to 9.30pm in Christchurch, New Rd, Marlborough. New members welcome, for more information Tel 01793 812175. Marlborough Concert Orchestra Rehearsals take place on Tuesday evening at Christ Church, New Road, Marlborough, 7.30 pm Anyone wishing to join is invited to make contact with the orchestra through the website www.mco.org.uk Marlborough Gardening Association Welcomes anyone with an interest in gardening. Meetings or visits most months throughout the year. For more information call Tricia Hayllar on 01672 512435, www.marlbga.org.uk. Marlborough & District Farming Club Meets every third Thursday of the month, September through to June, with a Ploughman’s Supper and a varied programme of interest to members. Meetings in Oare Village Hall 7.30 pm and four times in the winter at All Cannings. Open to anyone interested in country life Secretary Diane Strong 01672 563371 email dianemstrong@aol.com. Marlborough and District Concert Club Marlborough and District Concert Club was founded in 1980 in order to take advantage of some of the many first-class professional musical events available within coach distance of Marlborough. We arrange visits to concerts in Basingstoke, Bristol, Bath, Cheltenham, Southampton and Reading and occasionally London and Birmingham. We normally go to 11 concerts each year: orchestral, chamber music, recitals and opera. For more information call Tom Massey, 01672 516610. Marlborough and District Dyslexia Association The MDDA is a small, independent charity which has for the last 22 years supported local schools, hundreds of dyslexics and their families. Helpline 07729452143, website www.marlboroughdistrictdyslexia.org

Marlborough Floral Club. Please come and join us....we meet at 2pm the first Thursday of each month at Mildenhall Village Hall. Guest demonstrators, and the arrangements are raffled at the end of the meeting. For more info please call Mary Throup - 01672 861279. Marlborough Freemasons Meet once a month in the Masonic Hall in Oxford Street. Far from the myth of being a “secret” organisation, members are openly proud of their membership, and of the work that the Lodge does to support local organisations and charities. More details from Secretary Steve Aubertin on 01672 513316 or e-mail him 1533@pglwilts.org.uk Marlborough History Society Founded in 2001 the Society celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2011. Meetings are held at St. Peter’s at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of most months. New members are always welcome. For more information call 01672 519338. Web site: www.marlboroughhistorysociety.co.uk Marlborough Macular and Low Vision Support Group This group meets on the last Thursday of each month in the White Hart – formerly Conservative Club- 116 High Street, Marlborough, from 3pm till 5pm. All aspects of financial and personal support are discussed, and also social activities take place. Open to anyone with sight problems and their family/carers. Details from Gordon 01672 514925 Marlborough Penguins Amateur Swimming Club. Swimming teaching/training for ages 5years to Masters. Tues/Thurs/Sun at Marlborough Leisure Centre. Please contact Alan Crook 01672 512757 for details.

Marlborough and District Rotary Club Rotary is an International Organisation of professional and business people who meet every week for fellowship and service. Meetings every Monday evening at Marlborough Golf Club. For more information visit www.marlboroughrotary.org.uk

Marlborough Police Station Enquiry Office is now only open Tues 0900 - 1700 (closed 1245 1315), Weds 0900 - 1230 and Thurs 0900 - 1700 (closed 1245 - 1315). Please call in to check if your lost property has been handed in, as well as report crime, traffic collisions, produce driving documents, and much more.

Marlborough Big Band Rehearsals on Fridays 7pm to 9pm at Mildenhall Village Hall. We play a wide range of popular, swing and jazz music and have members aged 16 to 80+. New members of all ages welcome. For more information contact David on 07500 635870 or email: david@baker30.co.uk

Marlborough Tennis Club Marlborough Tennis has 6 new courts and floodlights. We are based at Port Hill, Marlborough SN8 1DU. (Entrance via Marlborough Golf Club) Everyone is very welcome to join us for social & league play, cardio-tennis, coaching etc. Contact Barbara Jones 516635

Marlborough Bowls Club Tel: 07747 833436 Secretary Mrs A. Watts 01672 511335 Outdoor season April - October. New members always welcome, coaching and advice available Monthly networking breakfasts, see www.chambernews.biz for more info.

Marlborough WI Meetings take place on the 1st Wednesday of every month at Wesley Hall, Oxford St from 7.30-9.30. New members very welcome. For further details call 01672 514177

Marlborough & District Lions Lions serve the local community by organising events to raise funds for local and national deserving causes. If you would like to join or need support please ring

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John Edmunds 01672 512650 or Karen Hilditch 01672 513282

Mildenhall Gardening Club - New, very informal and friendly group, currently meeting at the Horsehoe in Mildenhall on the 3rd Wednesday every month at 7.30pm. For more information contact Milly on 07876 230 540 or millycarmichael@hotmail.com

To advertise To advertise please please call 01793 call 791104 01793 791104 or email: or ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk


PODIATRY CLINIC Podiatry/Chiropody & Foot Health HCPC reg.

Professional Advice Routine & Specialist Care Nail Surgery - Orthotics

01672 514581 07910 525376

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

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Community Information Pewsey Tennis Club A friendly club with first class facilities and coaching groups for all ages and abilities. Private coaching available. For more info please see our website https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/pewseytc or contact Martin Wright Head Coach 07855 887 568 Phoenix Brass Band Rehearsals twice weekly in Froxfield. Training Band on Saturday mornings. New and experienced players of all ages welcome. Contact Musical Director David Watson 01672 515176 Pilates classes Pilates classes for all levels around the Marlborough area. Please contact Caroline McCord on 01672 511360 or 07817503546 or caroline@backinbalancepilates.com Angie Sanders - Classes are held in Aldbourne. 1:1 tuition available, angiesanders2@icloud.com or 01672 540176 Pottery Lessons Adults:Mon.7-9pm, or Thurs.7-9pm Children’s: Wed. 3.45-5.15. Beginners and more experienced welcome. At Wagon Yard Artists, off London Rd, Marlb. Contact Jacqui 07773 271572 or jacqui.melhuish@btinternet.com Sarsen Songmen A small male voice choir rehearsing in Aldbourne (1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays 7.30 pm), wide repertoire including Barbershop, occasional performances in the local area. New members welcome: contact MichaelReynolds on 01672-511199. Savernake Badminton Club Savernake Badminton Club is a small friendly club that is long established and affiliated to Badminton England. We meet on Tuesday evenings between 7.00 and 9.00pm at the Sports Hall at St John’s School, Granham Hill, Marlborough. For further details telephone Roy Turner on 01672 810208 or Barbara Jones on 01672 516635 School of Tae Kwon Do (P.U.M.A.) Classes are held at Marlborough Leisure Centre on Tuesday evening (7 - 8 pm), and Friday evening (6 -7 pm), and are suitable for all ages from 7 years upward. Please phone John or Carol on 01793 850410 / 07799 566805 for further information. Scottish Country Dancing Manton Village Hall - Wednesday evenings Beginner session followed by more experienced dancers.Contact Jennifer Parker 01672 515151 St Peter’s Church Marlborough A redundant church now managed by a Trust, featuring a Coffee Shop and a Craft Shop. The church is open daily 10 am - 5 pm, except Saturdays when it opens at 9 am, and on Sundays from March to December 11 am - 4pm The church is available for hire for exhibitions, meetings, lectures and concerts. For bookings please contact David Du Croz on 01672511725 or email at du.croz@btinternet.com T’ai Chi at Burbage Tai Chi is an excellent exercise designed to strengthen the back and improve general well-being. Open to

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men and women. New members and beginners are most welcome. Sessions every Thursday, 10-11am and 11.30-12.30 in Burbage Village Hall More details contact Louise on 01672 810421 or email taicburbage@gmail.com. The Friends of Savernake Hospital and the Community – A local charity helping people with health-related issues both at Savernake Hospital and in the Marlborough Community Area by providing grants of up to GBP10,000. For information on applying for a grant or on becoming a volunteer at the Friends’ Shop at Savernake Hospital, visit the Friends’ website at www.friendsofsavernake.org or contact the Friends’ Chairman, Janet Louth, on 01672 513868. The Merchant’s House This historic 17th century silk-merchant’s house at 132 High Street is being refurbished by a charitable trust. Regular lectures and concerts are held and there are opportunities for local people to work as volunteers or house guides. The House and garden are open to visitors from 1st of April to the end of October on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10.30am-3pm and by appointment at other times. Become a ‘Friend’ and enjoy enhanced membership benefits. For more information contact Sophie Costard 01672 511491 Web site: www.themerchantshouse.co.uk Transition Marlborough aims to inspire and motivate people to work together, and support each other, in reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, building a stronger sense of community and so increasing our communities’ resilience. This will strengthen the local economy to create livelihoods for local people and provide a greater level of wellbeing for all. Our Hub group meets on the second Thursday of the month, usually at the Green Dragon, at 7:30pm. Do join us. For more information, contact Alexandra on 07771 347 379 email secretary@transitionmarlborough.org, www.transitionmarlborough.org University of the Third Age U3A provides learning and leisure opportunities in the Marlborough Area for those who are retired or semi-retired. For information on interest groups and membership please visit www.u3ainkennet.org.uk or email membershipsec@u3ainkennet.org.uk or call the Membership Secretary, Nick Swan, on 01672 519331. Watercolour Painting Classes Classes on Wednesdays 10.30am – 12.30pm and Tuesdays 7.30pm – 9.30pm With professional artist Colin Palmer at his studio in central Marlborough. Suitable for beginners and the more experienced. Call Colin on 07835 039 812 or colin@colinpalmer-illustration.co.uk for more details. Yoga classes for all abilities. Enjoyable Yoga classes in and around the Marlborough area. Please contact Lizzy Hawnt on 01672 841553, 07821 396 430 or e-mail hawnted.house@btinternet.com Yoga for Men Tuesday evenings 7.30pm -9.15pm for all abilities including beginners at Minal Village Hall,

To advertise To advertise please please call 01793 call 791104 01793 791104 or email: or ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk



Community Information Mildenhall Please contact Jonathan Heath on 01672 513738 e.mail: jonathan@samtosha.co.uk Aldbourne Village Green A voluntary organisation managing a community orchard and running a twice yearly market for local bakers, makers and growers on the Green. New volunteers and traders welcome. For details contact Lesley on 01672 540180

Parents & Toddlers

Chilton Chicks Toddler Group Join us for a variety of crafts, toys, snacks, a cuppa and a chat. New faces are always welcome. Mondays 9.30-11.30am in the Chilton Foliat Village Hall (Next to the Wheatsheaf pub). Adults £1, Toddlers £1 & under 6 months are free. Call Liz on 01488 684526 for further details. Creepy Crawlers meet Fridays 10 – 11.30am at the Scout Hut, Marlborough Tel: 01672 811495 The Corner House Children’s Centre offering information, support, advice and activity sessions to families with children 0-5 in Marlborough and the community area. George Lane Car Park Tel 01672 513010 Great Bedwyn Playgroup Ofsted Outstanding Playgroup for 2 to five year olds, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday during term-time. Toddler group for 0 - 5 years olds, every Wednesday during term-time. Sessions include crafts, snack, story and music time, and outside play area. Great Bedwyn Village Hall, Frog Lane, Great Bedwyn, near Marlborough SN8 3PB Tel. 01672 870 179 or visit www.greatbedwynplaygroup.org.uk Home-Start Calling all volunteer parents....Could you help make a difference for young families? Many parents need help, friendship, advice or support during those early years when children are young. Your experience as a parent can help others. For more details contact Home-Start Kennet 01672 569457 Junipers Creative and sensory play for babies to preschoolers. 01672 890829, wwwjuniperscreativeplay.com Little Dabchicks Parent and Under 4’s group, meets Thursday mornings 9.30 - 11.30 Term time.In the Aldbourne Methodist Hall, Lottage Road Zoe - 01672 540439 Little Dragons Pre School Ogbourne St George Village Hall All children aged 2 - 5 years welcome at our well established pre-school held in a quiet village setting in Ogbourne St George. It is a warm, friendly environment where we are open Monday to Friday for mornings 9.05am to 12.05pm or 1.05pm (if staying for lunch) and all day Wednesdays until 3.05pm. For

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more information email linda@littledragons.org or call 07855 026083. Alternatively do look at our website at www.littledragons.org. Manton Preschool. Based in the heart of the beautiful village of Manton our well-established friendly Preschool provides exemplary education for 2-5 year olds. We are a “Good” Ofsted setting providing Rising Fives sessions as well as healthy snacks, crafts, singing, story time, French, outdoor play and much more. For more details, please ring 01672 516675. Marlborough and District NCT We have an active group in Marlborough, with courses, events and ‘Bumps and Babes’ cafes. The cafes are an opportunity to meet other parents, grandparents and parents-to-be for a coffee and a chat. For more information contact nctmarlborough@yahoo.co.uk or go to www.nct.org.uk/branches/marlborough. Ramsbury Parent and Toddlers meets Wednesdays 10 – 12 in the Memorial Hall Tel: 01672 520961 Sunflowers at Grafton is a Nursery & Pre school for children aged 0-5 situated in beautiful East Grafton. Open from 8am-6pm, 51 weeks each year, morning & afternoon sessions are available. Sunflowers is community run on a not-for-profit basis. For more information see www.sunflowers-grafton.co.uk or call 01672 810478

Doctors

Ramsbury Surgery Tel:01672 520366 The Marlborough Surgery Tel: 01672 512187 Wiltshire Out of Hours Service Tel: 0300 111 5717

Leisure

Herongate Leisure 01488 682000 Marlborough Leisure Centre 01672 513161

Local Government

Marlborough Town Council 01672 512487. See www.marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk for full details of council meetings Wiltshire Council 0300 456 0100

Schools

Marlborough St Mary’s Tel: 01672 513101 Ogbourne St. George & St. Andrew C of E Controlled Primary School Tel: 01672 841318 St Michael’s CE Aided School, Back Lane, Tel: 01672 540434 Ramsbury Primary School Back Lane, Tel: 01672 520244 Preshute Primary School Tel: 01672 512754 St John’s School and Community College Tel: 01672 516156 Stepping Stones Pre-Prep School Tel: 01488 681 067

To advertise To advertise please please call 01793 call 791104 01793 791104 or email: or ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk


Ian Barnes Electrical Services & Testing

Electrician Mob: 07747 414493 Tel: 01672 520147 Sockets and Lighting Extensions and Rewires Fuseboard replacement Inspection, Testing and Certification Lighting design

Marlborough Hungerford Ramsbury Aldbourne

Beautifully Hand Sewn Made to Measure Upholstery Service Telephone / Fax: 01672 541 263 Upham Farm, Upper Upham Aldbourne, Marlborough Wiltshire SN8 2LG Email: sewmuchmore@live.co.uk

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Finance

Five key inheritance tax planning tips

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With the number of estates being caught by inheritance tax increasing exponentially, now is probably a good time to be looking at simple strategies to start to maximise the monies you pass to your beneficiaries. 1) Understand your potential liabilities Inheritance tax is charged on death at the rate of 40% of the value of an estate above the nil rate band. The nil rate band currently sits at £325,000 per person, or up to £650,000 between most married couples or civil partners which means that many estates valued at over these figures will find they have tax to pay. Transfers between spouses or civil partners do not create a liability so usually these couples are only taxed on second death. It is not just assets held on death that come into the equation as an estate valuation can also include some lifetime gifts. 2) Make full use of lifetime allowances Some lifetime gifts are immediately exempt from Inheritance tax. These include a. Gifts of up to £3,000 per year b. Some gifts on marriage (£5,000 for children, £2,500 for grand-children, £1,000 on other marriages) c. Small gifts of less than £250 per person to any number of individuals d. Gifts out of regular income that do not affect your standard of living 3) Gift larger sums in good time The value of lifetime gifts that exceed the above figures will be added back into the estate in the event of death within 7 years of the gift. If the cumulative total of these gifts exceeds the nil-rate band of £325,000, there may also be some lifetime inheritance tax to pay. Some assets such as shares in unlisted businesses and agricultural property held for at least 2 years prior to death are also exempt from this tax. The ownership of shares listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) also qualify which may provide a planning opportunity.

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4) Write or review your Will A Will ensures that your assets are passed in accordance with your wishes. Dying without a will could have serious implications to your loved ones as they may not automatically inherit. Your main residence has its own nil rate band only if it is passed on to your children or grandchildren, not if it is sold on death. 5) Effective philanthropic donations Charitable donations (and gifts to political parties) are exempt from tax and if you gift a minimum of your estate to charity on death, the rate of inheritance tax payable on the balance of the estate reduces to 36%. Whilst this is a good opportunity to help your favoured charities, they may have benefitted better through the use of Gift Aid tax relief during your lifetime. 6) Regularly review your plan Changes in legislation and to your personal financial position means that it is very important to keep your Inheritance tax planning regularly under review.

• • • • • •

Chartered Financial Planner, Sam Binstead is a Director and Chartered Financial Planner at independent financial advisers Chilvester Financial. Please contact Sam at our Marlborough office for more information or advice on passing assets effectively down the generations.

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: ads@marlboroughtownandcountry.co.uk

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CHI_0009 A5 Advert portrait Marl Living V2.indd 1

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Classic Car The interior is spartan – a huge narrow rimmed steering wheel with three large dials right in front of it, flat vinyl covered seats and a pair of heating vents; even a radio was a cost option. Nonetheless, there is plenty of room for four adults to enjoy the fun.

BMW 2002 Tii Just as the VW Golf GTi created a new class of car, the hot hatch, the BMW 2002 invented the premium compact sports saloon. It doesn’t exactly trip off the tongue, but this has become one of the most important classes in the UK car market. These days, it is the home of the Audi A4, the Mercedes C Class, the Jaguar XE and, of course, the BMW 3 Series. BMW nearly went bust in the 1950s but reinvented itself in the 60s with the imaginatively named New Class saloon which eventually evolved into the 5 Series executive saloon of today. They needed a smaller cheaper version and came up with the far prettier 2016 in 1966, a no frills 1.6 saloon along the lines of the Ford Escort which appeared shortly afterwards. The American dealers were crying out for a more powerful version, so BMW plonked a 2.0 litre twin carb engine under the bonnet and called it the 2002 Ti. In 1972 they added one of the earliest fuel injection systems, the wonderfully named Kugel Fischer, and it became the 2002 Tii. With 130bhp on tap and a kerb weight of less than a ton, the 2002 could get to 60mph in under 10 seconds and knock on the door of 120mph. It may not sound like much today, but it was seriously quick back in the early 70s. The 2002 is instantly recognisable as a BMW – the low waistline, squared off boot, forward sloping front and kidney shaped grill featured in all the early BMWs. It looks compact and pert and ready to go; the alloy wheels and bright colour palette add to its sporting credentials.

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It is only when driven that the BMW really begins to make sense. With no power assistance, the steering is heavy but it feeds back every nuance of the road. The gear shift is rifle bolt accurate, the engine sharp and responsive and the handling precise. The ride is surprisingly compliant. This car is huge fun to drive, a bit like a cross between a Porsche and a Mini. Not many 2002s found their way to the UK and they are surprisingly rare, particularly in right hand drive form. They are very collectible now with a legion of enthusiasts and prices have risen dramatically over the last five years. A scrappy high miler can be yours for around £16,000 while good examples are fetching £25k and up. I have seen pristine cars advertised for £50,000 and even non-running rusted out restoration projects are going for £4k and up. There some good sides to these rising values apart from the fact you are buying an appreciating classic. Firstly, parts are easier to get hold of because so many restorers are working on 2002s. Also, a network of businesses has sprung up that specialise in restoring things like engines, gearboxes and the fragile mechanical fuel injection system. As a result, it is worth buying a project car and paying a garage to restore it for you. Alternatively, you could buy a lower spec car such as a base 2002 or a Ti and upgrade it by fitting a fuel injection system and uprated suspension. Easier still, buy a car in Germany or Belgium where prices are lower; many of the UK cars are left hand drive anyway. If you have a reasonably healthy budget and want to buy a driver’s car that is well built, practical and will stand out from the crowd, the BMW 2002 Tii could be the car for you. I think prices will probably start to stabilise, but it will still hold its value extremely well. Kit Johnson

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Home Efficiency & Home Safety Gas Safe heating engineer, British Gas trained with 25 years experience serving Marlborough and surrounding villages, with a focus on supporting customers to achieve efficient and safe heating solutions

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Vet’s Column

Keeping your Pets Safe this Christmas

T

Paws up anyone who eats way too much on Christmas Day, then spends Boxing Day paying the price? Still it’s only once a year and it’s a great time to get together and over indulge and whilst eating and drinking too much makes us feel a little sluggish the effects on treating your pet to the finer things over the festive season could be a little more serious. The result of over feeding your dog Christmas leftovers may be limited to some stomach pain and diarrhoea, but may have more serious consequences in some. So below are a few key points to watch out for; • An excess of fatty foods can cause inflammation of the pancreas which can be very painful and make your pet extremely unwell. This can usually be treated with intravenous fluids and medication, but can be very serious in some dogs. • Some dogs are prone to stomach bloat ( a large build up of gas in the stomach) and this may be brought on by feeding larger than usual meals which again can be extremely serious, especially if the stomach becomes twisted. • Many dogs, like us, love chocolate, unfortunately their liver is unable to process a chemical in chocolate and cocoa called theobromine. The theobromine passes into the blood stream very quickly and as it is not broken down continues to circulate in the dog’s body causing the heart

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to beat rapidly. The darker the chocolate the higher the concentration of theobromine and the more toxic it is, but even white chocolate contains some cocoa, so may be poisonous in large enough amounts. The dog may vomit, have muscle tremors, hyperactivity or fit which could lead to death. There is no specific antidote for chocolate poisoning, but if you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate contact your veterinary surgery immediately as quick veterinary treatment could save your dog’s life. Prevention is always best, avoid feeding your dog these types of treats and keep certain Christmas items out of reach to ensure they have a happy healthy Festive period; • Chocolate as treats (and make sure your children know not to as well). Any chocolate presents should be wrapped and kept in cupboards out of reach, not left under the tree. Any chocolate decorations on the tree should be on the high branches out of reach. • Avoid giving your dog are raisins or grapes which may cause renal failure in some dogs and macadamia nuts which can also be poisonous. • Yew tree, holly, mistletoe and lilies are toxic if eaten, so these should be kept out of reach of pets too.

• Chicken, turkey or other small bones can splinter in the throat. • The Christmas tree can be hazardous for pets too, cover up wires from fairy lights so they cannot be chewed and burn or electrocute your pet. Fallen tree needles can be sharp and stick into your pet’s paws. • Also, make sure your tree is well anchored so it cannot be knocked over. Christmas decorations should preferably be unbreakable and not too small, young pets and cats can be particularly interested in decorations so avoid any tinsel or ribbon which may be swallowed and cause blockages in the gut. If your dog shows any symptoms of retching, vomiting, enlargement of the stomach or stomach pain they should be checked by your vet as soon as possible. And remember Christmas can be a sad and stressful time for many pets with extra people and noise so make sure they have a safe haven to escape to when things get too busy! We hope you and your pets have a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year. Always remember, if you have any concerns about your pet, please contact your Vet. Drove Vets

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 Local care in Marlborough with back up from 24/7 Drove Hospital in Swindon  Full hospital care for more detailed investigations  Pet Health Club scheme that rewards your loyalty and spreads the cost  Lab and surgical facilities on site

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