TOWN & COUNTRY
People Local News Features
Amanda Jones Marlborough Auctions
Gambian Disco Express
Look after your feet Dealing with Stress
PEOPLE | FEATURES | NEWS | WHAT’S ON | COMMUNITY INFORMATION
FREE Issue 116 . December 2017
Edit or’s Letter Happy Christmas!
I don’t know about you, but I can’t believe that Christmas is almost upon us again – those years definitely whizz by faster as you get older! As I write in early November, the John Lewis Christmas ad has been launched (when did new adverts become events?) and already the TV is full of other commercials for Christmas. “Bah, humbug!” is hovering on my lips, yet doesn’t quite make it out, as despite the commercialisation, I do still love Christmas. The town council seem to have taken heed of concerns that Christmas starts too early as the lights switch on is on Dec 1 this year. Take the chance to go along and do some shopping with local businesses, and if you get a chance pop along to the art studio in Wagon Yard the same night, where you will find mulled wine and mince pies, along with some lovely art that is perfect for Christmas gifting. Our interviewee this month is Amanda Jones, who has recently started up the new Marlborough Auction Rooms, their first auction is on November 29, and features jewellery – another Christmas shopping opportunity. I always think the nice thing about antiques is that you know no one else will have the same thing. I hope you have a lovely Christmas!
Editor Contact us: Andrea Jerome Address: Ivydene, High St, Wanborough, SN4 0AD Tel: 01793 791104 Mob: 07836 580699 Email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk All copy for January 18 issue is due by 3 December 2017.
Contents 3 Intro 6 Amanda Jones 8 Gambian Disco Express 10 Christmas Cards 13 Council News 16 Looking after your feet 18 Dealing with stress 20 What’s On 22 Community Info 32 Holiday Hazards for pets 34 Christmas Recipe 36 Motoring Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements
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It is that time of year again! You can get your Christmas gifts, extra bedding, and guest towels from D&R Furnishers, and let’s not forget all those home accessories to make your home that little bit cosier this winter!
Gifts | Home Accessories | Fabric | Furniture | Flooring | Wallpaper | etc T. 01672 513491/2 | The Parade | Marlborough | Wiltshire | SN8 1NE Open: Monday – Friday 8:15am – 5:00pm (Closed weekends)
www.dandrfurnishers.co.uk
Christmas at The Merchant’s House Shop Come and visit our Christmas room in the panelled chamber upstairs. We have something for all the family and stunning decorations too. Our opening times: Mondays - Saturdays, 9.30am to 5pm, Sundays 11am - 4.30pm. Late night Friday 1 December until 8pm We look forward to welcoming you and hope that you will be inspired by the wide variety of gifts on offer shopmanager@merchantshousetrust.co.uk 01672
511690 www.themerchantshouse.co.uk
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People
Amanda Jones
Amanda Jones runs the recently opened Marlborough Auction Rooms. She lives near Devizes with her husband Huw; the couple have three children, Robyn, 24, Sam, 21, and Georgie, 19. Have you always worked in the antiques trade? No, it is a fairly recent profession for me. After doing Environmental Sciences at university, I trained as a teacher, and worked in primary schools for 27 years. It got to a stage where I needed a change; education has changed a lot over the years, and is incredibly weighed down by bureaucracy. I wanted to get my evenings and weekends back, and just try something different. I applied for and got a position as an administrator in an Auction Rooms, and worked there for a couple of years to gain experience. I was keen to have my own business, so decided to set up my own auction business. It’s me, my son Sam, and our very recent acquisition Gordon Brockman, who has great experience in the trade and who has joined us as our resident auctioneer/valuer. Why did you choose Marlborough as your base? I know the area fairly well, as all my children have attended St John’s Sixth Form and so I got to know the town through them really. Sam knows everybody (at least it feels like he does!) It is also well located for the area we want to cover which is Marlborough/Swindon/West Berkshire. We’ve been here a couple of months now and we are settling in very well. Have you run any auctions yet? Our first is on Wednesday 29 November at Marlborough Golf Club. It will be a Gold, Silver, Jewellery and Costume Jewellery Auction. I’m excited about it, and maybe a little nervous as it’s our first. Jewellery is an interesting category – so many people have pieces lying around in drawers at home that they don’t wear, and perhaps don’t realise are valuable. It’s always worth having a look, and getting pieces valued, as many items are worth much more than the scrap value of the gold or silver in them. Costume jewellery in particular can surprise you. We anticipate around 300 lots at this first sale. Our second auction will be in January, and will be a more general antiques and collectables sale.
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I love the sheer variety, you never know what is going to come through the door next. If I had something I thought might be worth something, how would I go about selling it through your auction rooms? The first thing would be to bring it along for us to look at – we have valuation days every Wednesday, or at other times by appointment. If necessary, we can come to you. Gordon will have a look and give you an idea of a guide price that he thinks it will sell for. We are committed to helping people get the right value for their items, and often will spend time researching the background of an item. For instance, we currently have a stopwatch that may have belonged to an influential engineer, and we are trying to establish its provenance. It’s a bit like being a detective – if we can establish the connection between the watch and this person, the market will widen considerably. It’s quite fascinating. Once we’ve given a value then should you decide to sell through the auction, we would photograph and catalogue the item and put it in the sale.
To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
People Occasionally, an item may not be suitable for our auction, in which case we would advise on the best place to take it. Auctions have changed a lot over the years with the advent of the internet? It has certainly widened the reach of auctions, as people can view items and “attend” the auction and bid online in real time from anywhere in the world. You can also do it the old-fashioned way – which is to view the items in person prior to the auction, and attend in person and bid in the room, which is perhaps more fun. It’s made the administration side a bit more challenging, as we can be selling anywhere in the world, which has implications for currency and postage/packing and customs etc. You also offer probate services? Yes, we do. In fact, we are quite passionate that people get the best return in these difficult circumstances. We offer a service whereby we identify any items suitable for auction, recycle any other items that may be suitable through a charity, and clear the rest. This ensures that the deceased’s family benefit and are looked after in a sensitive way. It’s surprising what turns up – for instance at one clearance an innocuous mug in a kitchen cupboard turned out to be 18th century and sold at auction for £1700. What do you enjoy most about the business? I love the sheer variety, you never know what is going to come through the door next. I enjoy seeing the beauty in each item, and the sense of history you get from them. I wonder about the person that wore that locket, or used that pen – I like the link to a different age.
I am also enjoying being my own boss, nurturing something and making it grow. There’s a lot of hard work, but it is so worthwhile. What are your ambitions for the future? To establish the Auction Rooms as a family business with a reputation for good service and integrity. Sam is training alongside Gordon, so eventually we will have two valuers/auctioneers, and I hope that we will have our own saleroom in addition to our offices year or two down the line. We also plan to get involved in the local community. Gordon is happy to Auctioneer at charity auctions, and has quite a lot of experience doing so. Always happy to do talks for community groups on antiques. We hope to offer work experience to students from both St John’s and Marlborough College. We also offer a special commission rate to charity shops. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Art is a passion of mine. I paint in gouache and pastels – I specialise in marine scenes, animals, and city scenes at night. In the past few years I have set up a website amandajonesartist.com, and have exhibited and sold at Mottisfont, a National Trust Property in Hampshire. I love gorillas, and have spent time doing a series of paintings of the gorillas at Bristol zoo. They are amazing creatures. When I’m fit, I enjoy running and cycling – I’ve done a few half marathons in my time. My first love was swimming – I represented Great Britain in Synchronised Swimming when I was younger – I went to the LA Olympics, as well as several World Championships and European and Commonwealth Games.
It’s a long time ago now! I also enjoy walking the dogs. I have two – Toby, a lurcher that we found living under the hedge in our garden a few years ago (poor boy was skin and bone – we adopted him after checking with the dog warden he wasn’t lost), and Buddy, also a rescue dog, our sixth rescued Old English Sheepdog. Do you enjoy reading? Yes, I love books. When I’m painting I listen to audio books – I can get quite carried away, and suddenly realise its 2am! I also like print books – which I tend to pick up at the doctor’s where they have a pile of second hand books they sell to raise money for equipment. I’ve had some good finds there – a recent one being The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Shaffer, set in occupied Guernsey in WWII. What about music? Some of my favourites are Coldplay and Adele, and a Belgian choir Scala that perform choral versions of rock songs. I used to play the piano and the flute. I was very involved with choirs and school performances, and even ran a Recorder Orchestra when I was a teacher – so music has been a big part of my life. What are you planning for Christmas? Nothing too elaborate. Christmas Day is with the immediate family and the dogs, and then we usually visit wider family on Boxing Day. It’s fairly quiet, but we enjoy it. Marlborough Auction Rooms are along the A4 near Manton, at Elm Tree Park. Call for information on 01672 861081. www.marlboroughauctionrooms.com
To view Amanda’s art, visit her website www.amandajonesartist.com
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Local News
All aboard the Gambian Disco Express! In 1987, 16 year old Robin Twelftree and his friend Giles Golding went on what Robin describes as a life changing cultural exchange to Gunjur in the Gambia, organised by the Marlborough Brandt Group. They experienced a totally different life in a West African village, living and working with local families over the course of a year. The eye-opening experience forged a strong affinity with the people, music and art of Gunjur, and a lasting friendship between the two boys. Fast forward 30 years and the boys, now men, are off on a mad cap adventure across Europe and Africa driving from London to Gunjur on a 4000 mile road trip in a vintage Mercedes. Along the way they hope to raise money for Marlborough Brandt Group (MBG), to enable it to carry on its work in the region. The guys are funding the trip themselves, so any money they raise along the way will go in its entirety to the charity. Christened the Gambian Disco Express, Giles’ vintage Merc is fitted out with a sound system and disco lights. As Robin says on their fundraising page “Along the way (through France, Spain, Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania etc) we will be making music and videos and getting as many innocent bystanders as possible involved in this hare-brained scheme. With your support and a following wind, we’ll hope to raise some awareness for MBG, and share some of the more intriguing and fun stuff with you along the way. You will not be disappointed with what border guards and/or camels can do with a microphone and multi-track. And the proceeds from any of this collaborative musical magic will also go directly to MBG.” At the end of the trip Robin and Giles plan to reunite with their old friends in Gunjur for the “mother of all parties”. The car will be auctioned with any proceeds going to MBG. You can catch up with what they are doing via their Facebook group, simply search Gambian Disco Express to find them. Robin explains the detail of the journey, “We leave on the 7 November 2017, for this 3900 mile journey.
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Driving down from London, to Dover, catching the ferry, then down through Paris and down the South of France. Over the border to Barcelona, where the Mercedes will get souped up with a sound system and disco lights and then the road takes us south via Seville to the ferry near Gibraltar. Across to Tangiers and the North African leg starts. Down through Morocco, via Meknes for a much-needed refurb and service from the expert Meknes taxi guys, and then to Agadir, down through the Western Sahara and over the Border into the coastal desert road in Mauritania. Down along the coast road via Nouakchott to the border with Senegal. From there across to the Dakar to record some excellent local musicians and then down into the Gambia, via the capital, Banjul, to the coastal village and our final destination, Gunjur – home. Phew! If the Merc makes it, we’ll arrive at Gunjur on about 6 December. Here we will meet up with old friends and organise a fundraising party where we will auction our tired but happy Mercedes along with all your donated musical instruments. Please help in whatever way you can to support this great charity and make us feel like it’s all been worth it!” As many of you will know The Marlborough Brandt Group is a community based charity that supports the partnership link between Marlborough, Wiltshire and Gunjur, The Gambia. The link is founded on mutual learning through reciprocal visits, a development programme in The Gambia and an education programme in the Marlborough area. It has been running for 35 years and now supports organisations to deliver development and education programmes in Gunjur as well as working in the UK to educate and provide the opportunity for people in the Marlborough area to travel to and experience life in Gunjur. If you would like to donate to their cause visit their fundraising page at www.everyclick.com/ gambiandiscoexpress
To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.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
The end of the Christmas Card? As a child I remember my Dad spending hours taping together Christmas cards in long lines and then tacking them to our walls. That was his special Christmas job and only he could do it properly, or so he told us. There were hundreds of them strewn across the lounge and dining room walls, and in a good year overflowing into the hall too. They were all very brightly coloured and glittery with lovely pastoral scenes and foiled wishes such as “Seasons Greetings” glittered in the light. After Christmas, we would sit and cut the pictures up with pinking shears to make gift tags for the following year. As I cut each card, I’d take a look at who it was from and the kind message that they had written to my family. Other than the usual Uncles, Aunts and close family friends, there would be many who I had never heard of. Some of the “strangers” had even enclosed a “Round Robin” of what their family had done over the last year – the precursor perhaps to the Instagram “my life is better than yours” pictures! (I would often wonder too, who was this Robin and why was he round?) The whole Christmas card culture has changed so much over the years. Back in the 70’s and 80’s when I was a child, there were very few charity Christmas cards. Nowadays you can pretty much find a card to suit every charitable need although the amount that actually goes to certain charities seems to vary considerably. I do find it fascinating to see the charities that my friends and families support – have they chosen the card for the picture or given preference to the charity I wonder. My Christmas card display tactics are a little more lackadaisical than my Dad’s, my preferred style being to fill the book shelves then tuck any extras over the tops of picture frames as artily as possible. I don’t have so many to put up however. Now I am not going to talk myself into paranoia and thinking that I am not popular but, actually, no-one seems to get many cards these days. At work we have a team lunch, an office lunch,
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a cross office party and a team Secret Santa so, by the time we’ve finished all of those, the general feeling is that we have said “Happy Christmas” enough times to our colleagues. Cards have fallen by the wayside. Don’t get me wrong, I love to send them and I love even more to open them. Nowadays though, the message inside is often printed with a quick squiggly name or two (often illegible) at the bottom and that’s it. The front of the card has also changed. Many are much less colourful now (unless you want to buy posh expensive cards), much smaller and some require a fair amount of imagination to see the link to either Christmas or, at a pinch, the winter. I vowed this year not to bother. Instead, to e mail, phone or “whatever” my friends and family and, instead, to donate the card and stamp money to charity. I can already feel myself buckling however. Maybe this year is a halfway house then - cards to some and social media greetings to others. After all, what good is a Santa Clause emoji to Dad. That’s not going to keep him busy with his important Christmas job is it?! Just in case though, Happy Christmas Dad xx 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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The Greyhound
Armistice Day and the Remembrance Parade
Many laid wreaths at the foot of the Memorial before attending a moving Remembrance Service at St Mary’s Church.
Marlborough Community & Youth Centre
It was a proud weekend with Armistice Day falling on Saturday, 11 November and our Remembrance Parade on Sunday 12 November. At 11am on the Saturday, everything came to a halt in the High Street as HMS Marlborough’s bell was rung and a siren marked the start of a 2 minutes silence with the last post + sounded by accomplished local trumpet player, Basil King. The Mayor and Councillors stood with the High Sherriff, Lady Penelope Marland, on the steps of the Town Hall alongside the Head Boy, Alex Jewell and Head Girl, Alex Knighton from St John’s Academy. This was followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the 7th Wiltshire Regiment War Memorial at London Road. At the Sunday Remembrance Parade, hundreds lined the High Street to watch as the parade marched to the New Road War Memorial led by the Phoenix Brass Band and the 4th Military Intelligence Battalion. Our Town Mayor and Councillors, the Commanding Officer of 4MI Bn, Claire Perry, MP, the Royal British Legion, the Emergency Services, the Cadet Forces, Scouts, Brownies and Guides all came to pay their respects to those who had lost their lives in war.
The Town Council is delighted by the offer of contributions towards the project as well as its success with external grant applications. McCarthy & Stone, developers at the new Cannings Place retirement apartments, will also be contributing to the project. There is still time to add support through Tesco’s Bags of Help scheme by adding your blue discs to the box at the Marlborough store. This runs throughout November and December and if we receive the most discs, we can boost our fund by £4,000. Refurbishment and redecoration is almost finished. CCTV, an access system and intruder alarms will now be installed to ensure that the building is secure as well as a suite of computers. We have a page dedicated to the project on our website at www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk where you can keep up with progress.
There will be a special opening event on Friday,15 December and we are now taking bookings for hiring rooms from early January onwards. All enquiries should be made to Sue Fry, Office Manager, at the Town Council Offices.
Christmas Lights Switch on FRIDAY 1ST DECEMBER LIGHTS ON AT 6.30
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS EVENT
A reminder that this year’s event will be on Friday, 1 December. There’ll be a Christmas market running, children’s fairground rides, stage performances from local choral and dance groups and Santa will be in his grotto at the Town Hall from 3pm – 8pm. (Book your visit with him at www.rotarysanta2017.eventbrite.co.uk) A road closure will be in place to make sure everyone is safe, the High Street and parts of Kingsbury Street and New Road between 3pm-9pm
A Happy Christmas!
Town Councillors and staff wish all readers a very happy Christmas.
Christmas and New Year Opening - The Town Council offices will be closed from 4pm on Thursday, 21 December 2017 and re-open on Tuesday, 2nd January 2017. 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 Official news from Marlborough Town Council
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Health
Looking after your feet Leonardo Da Vinci once said “The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art.” As someone whose feet spend most of their time shoved in socks and boots, I can’t say I have ever considered them a work of art, but I do see his point about a masterpiece of engineering. Your foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments, and a whopping 250,000 sweat glands, and are responsible for the very important task of supporting your whole body, as well as enabling you to walk and run. Considering their importance, many of us pay little attention to maintaining healthy feet. However, a little care and attention can prevent problems from developing – so when I was invited along to Hatt Health and Movement Clinic for a Podiatry appointment I was pleased to go along. I met up with resident Podiatrist, Natasha Peck who treats all kinds of foot conditions as well as offering general foot care, diabetic foot care and nail surgery. At an initial appointment a patient’s relevant medical history will be discussed along with any foot complaints. Luckily, my feet seem to be in fairly good health with no known problems, but often patients will be prompted to come along by an issue, such as corns, verrucae, calluses, ingrowing toenails etc. In addition, people who require routine foot care attend the clinic, as well as diabetics who have to be very careful of their feet. The clinic has state of the art podiatry facilities, and as I got comfortable in the high-tech podiatry chair, Natasha started by placing my feet in a relaxing foot bath.
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A Doppler ultrasound machine checked the circulation through my feet, followed by a touch test to check sensation. (Both of these particularly important for diabetics). Next, toenails are trimmed and any hard skin removed by what is effectively a mini sanding machine. (Rather tickly!) It would be at this stage that any corns, calluses etc would be dealt with. Luckily, I had no issues apart from a little bit of hard skin, and slightly long toenails (!) Foot cream was applied to moisturise and that was the end of the appointment. For those needing further help, a treatment plan is discussed, and information often supplied to take away. The Hatt Clinic offers the gold-standard in Podiatry treatments, including a breakthrough treatment for verrucae which uses microwave energy to provide fast, effective treatment; and a micro drilling method for dealing with fungal nail infections, which gets to the root of the problem – the nail bed. Both of these significantly reduce the number of treatments it takes to deal with the problem. At the moment the Hatt Clinic are offering an Initial appointment for £40 (saving you 33% off the usual price). So whether you have a foot complaint that needs treating, or just want to give your feet some care and attention, get in touch with the clinic on 01672 516580 or visit hattclinic.co.uk
To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD Experience the very best foot care from our HCPC Registered Podiatrists. -
Dry & cracked skin Verrucas Skin & nail infections Corns & calluses Diabetic foot care
“What a treat for my feet! I felt like I was walking on air. Fabulous experience and will definitely be back.”
To book your appointment call 01672 516580 or visit hattclinic.co.uk Hughenden Yard Marlborough SN8 1LT
DECEMBER SPECIAL BOOK YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT FOR £60 £40
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Health
Stressful Times We are constantly reminded of the role that stress plays in our busy lives. Deadlines at work, feeling overwhelmed, decisions to be made, the demands of relationships, needing to be perfect and constantly fearing failure, social anxiety.... the list goes on. Our fight or flight response is our bodies’ way of protecting us from danger: adrenaline coursing through our system so we can face it effectively. You know the symptoms: dry mouth, heart beating, trembling, pins and needles, feeling that you are not in your body. It is unlikely that we will see a lion in Marlborough High Street these days, but the threat is still real and we suffer the same symptoms. Our thoughts are very powerful, and this danger becomes very real when we are fearful. Our bodies don’t know the difference, so if you ignore the symptoms, they will build up and before you know it, you are feeling debilitated. Post-traumatic stress results as our fears are being constantly relived and are locked in the Amygdala, which is a part of our brain. These feelings of not being in control, having no-one to speak to plus growing frustration over everincreasing rules and regulations don’t help. We are creative beings and need to express ourselves. Many illnesses – such as IBS, headaches, asthma and fibromyalgia - are made worse by chronic stress. The menopause can be particularly hard as the stress hormones increase due to lack of oestrogen. Chronic stress can also lead to depression and many types of mental illness. But we ignore the signs and “get on with things”. We know that hiding our low mood and anxiety from others or running away doesn’t help. We think that we ‘should’ be ok and when we are not, we feel even more unhappy and out of control. So finding someone to talk to is essential. Help is at hand and you do not need to live with ongoing stress. Being honest with yourself and not hiding is a first step. Calming activities, time management, meditation, mindfulness and walks in the forest (the Japanese suggest 30 minutes twice a week) can all improve mental wellbeing. Talking to a therapist can give you the tools to cope. Massage, Reflexology, Acupuncture and Reiki can also make a huge
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difference as they allow energy to flow. You need to find what is right for you. The Marlborough Wellbeing Clinic is here to help you. We have experienced therapists who really make a difference, whether it be talking, energy or hands-on therapy. We also have a far infrared mat you can lie on and a friendly receptionist you can talk to. Aimee, our mental health specialist helps children to build their resilience and learn how to manage their emotional world. We also have Jill and Mary who are experienced Counsellors, Pat and Hannah who are hypnotherapists, successfully helping you to overcome extreme stress, and our life coach Ivan, who works with young people. Diet is very important, and you may benefit from some supplements. Our nutritionist, Kay can advise you – it’s amazing what a difference this can make. Here are a few things you can try which can also help to manage worry and anger and make a positive change to your daily life: 1. Be grateful and visualise yourself feeling calm. 2. In wintertime we are craving light, so when you wake, imagine you are filling yourself with light. 3. Say positive mantras: I am calm, I am filled with inner smiles. 4. Sit and breathe the 7/11 breath. Breathe in for a count of 7 and out for a count of 11. This will reduce the carbon dioxide in your bloodstream and your symptoms will improve. Do this 20 times and you will notice the difference. We need to feel safe and find ways to do this. If you continue to do what you’ve always done, nothing will change. Jill Sudbury www.thewellbeingclinic.org
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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 www.thewellbeingclinic.org
Illustration www.catherinebrockhurst.com
The Wellbeing Clinic 4 London Road, Marlborough, SN8 1PH tel. 07800 648397 www.stephenbrooke.co.uk stephen.brooke@virgin.net
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What’s On
What’s On December 2017 Marlborough Onscreen Events The Nutcracker
Date: Tuesday 5 December, 7.15pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall
Their Finest
Charity Christmas Card Sale
Date: Until mid-December 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.
Christmas Lights Switch On
Date: Friday 1 December Venue: Marlborough Town Hall and High Street Christmas Market 3pm – 8pm, Children’s rides 5pm onwards, Meet Father Christmas and more. More details at www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk or see page 12.
Ramsbury Roxy Their Finest
Date: Friday 1 December, 7.15 for 8pm Venue: Ramsbury Memorial Hall A former secretary, newly appointed as a scriptwriter
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for propaganda films, joins the cast and crew of a major production while the Blitz rages around them. A pleasing combination of comedy and wartime drama. Tickets £4 from Ramsbury Post Office until 1pm on film day or £4.50 on the door. Info from roxy@ramsbury.org
Wagon Yard Artists Christmas Exhibition
Date: Mulled wine and nibbles Fri 1 Dec, 6-9pm, Sat 3-Sun 4 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
Marlborough Concert Orchestra
Date: Saturday 2 December, 7.30pm Venue: St Mary’s Church, Marlborough Featuring Mozart and Schubert.Tickets £10 adults, £2 students. Available from Sound Knowledge or on the door. Licensed bar and raffle. www.mco.org.uk
This all-time ballet favourite, in which Clara is swept into a fantasy adventure when one of her Christmas presents comes to life, is broadcast LIVE from the Royal Opera House Tickets £15 in advance from Sound Knowledge and The White Horse Bookshop, Marlborough, or at marlboroughonscreen.events. £14 on door. Licensed bar.
Christmas Craft and Gift Market
Date: Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December, 10-4pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Thousands of gifts to choose from. Free entry 01749 677049
Burbage Christmas Tree Sale and Market Date: Saturday 9 (9-4.30) and Sunday 10 December (9-2) Venue: All Saints Church, Burbage
The 23rd 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 Carols by Candlelight
Date: Saturday 9 December, 7:30 pm Venue: St Mary’s Church, Marlborough With music by Pergolesi and others. Tickets £8 (adults)
To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
What’s On from Sound Knowledge, choir members, or on the door
www.marlboroughchoralsociety.org.uk
Chamber Recital
Date: Sunday 10 December, 6.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church, Marlborough Top, internationally renowned classical musicians: Pianist Simon Crawford Phillips, Violinist Katharine Gowers and Cellist Amy Norrington will perform. Featuring Bartok: Romanian Folk Dances, arr. Szekely for piano and violin; Brahms: Cello sonata No.1 in E minor, Op.38 and Smetana: Piano trio in G minor, Op.15 Tickets £15 (£10 for members of St Peter’s Trust or MBG) available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge.
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, The Nutcracker
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.
Carol Service
Date: Saturday 16 December, 4pm Venue: Marlborough College Chapel 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 14, and can be purchased from David Dudley (Jewellers) or Kim Vine (Ladies Fashions) 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.
Santa’s Workshop
Date: Wednesday 13 December Venue: St John’s School, Marlborough Come and join us on a magical Christmas journey to Santa’s Workshop. Entertained by elves, fairies and even a robot; you will be completely filled with festive fun. Watch the cast dance and sing as they take you to a wonderful, winter wonderland. The story of a girl who dreams of getting her Christmas wish. A festive treat performed by St John’s BTEC Year 10 students. This is an event you won’t want to miss! Tickets available from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ stjohnstheatreonthehill
Marlborough Folk-Roots concert: St Agnes Fountain Date: Saturday 16 December, 8pm Venue: Christchurch, New Road, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1AH
The made-for-Christmas band showcases the humour and musical stardust of Chris While, Julie Matthews, Chris Leslie and David Hughes. Tickets £19 from 01672 512465, Sound Knowledge at Hughenden Yard, Marlborough, or online at www.marlboroughfolk-roots.co.uk
Further Afield Aldbourne Band Annual Christmas Concert
Date: Friday 1 December, 7.45pm Venue: Holy Cross Church, Chiseldon. As usual, the Band will be performing their annual concert of ‘Music for Christmas’ in Holy Cross Church, under the direction of the popular conductor, David Johnson. Tickets are available by telephoning (01793) 790756, 741146 or 740105 and cost £8.00 (Children under 14, £2.50). Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements
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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, 5.45-7.15pm Contact sianybubbles@hotmail.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 Tessa on 01672 520336 or tessahicks@btinternet.com 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 please call 01793 791104 or 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
If you always do what you always do, you’ll always get what you always get.
Time for a change, perhaps? Pat Harper Hypnotherapy Free consultation. Day, evening & weekend appointments. Time for positive change 01672 513583 : 07533 982887 pat@patharperhypnotherapy.co.uk Wellbeing Clinic, 4 London Rd, Marlborough SN8 1PH.
Fully qualified and insured. Member of the National Hypnotherapy Society. www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk
Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements
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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 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 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 & 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 John Edmunds 01672 512650 or Karen Hilditch 01672 513282
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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 Support Group Meet on the last Thursday of every month from 1.30 to 3.30 pm in the Wesley Hall, Oxford Street, Marlborough, SN8 1AP. The meetings are open to anyone with impaired vision. Carers are welcome too. For further details please contact Linda Chapman 01672 512471 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 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 Tennis Club Based at Preshute Tennis Courts.New members welcome for social and league play. Coaching for children and adults. Contact Barbara Jones 516635 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 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 please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
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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 pewseytennisclub.net 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 Anne on 01249 814071 or email chi@shadesoft.net 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 To advertise advertise please please call call 01793 01793 791104 791104 or or email: email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
Working Graphics Studio Letterheads, Comp slips Correspondence cards Business cards, Billheads, Leaflets, bulk copying etc. Wedding Stationery & Order of Service for Weddings and Funerals
Tel: 01672 515444
pdf. & Jpeg: print-image@btconnect.com Word files: printimage@btconnect.com
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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
Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements
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Community Information Mildenhall Please contact Jonathan Heath on 01672 513738 e.mail: jonathan@samtosha.co.uk
call 07855 026083. Alternatively do look at our website at www.littledragons.org.
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
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.
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 more information email linda@littledragons.org or
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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
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 St Mary’s Infant School Tel: 01672 513101 St Peter’s Junior School Tel: 01672 513158 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 To advertise advertise please please call call 01793 01793 791104 791104 or or email: email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
The Avenue Day Nurseries 3 Months - 5 Years 58 Places 08:00 - 18:00 Ofsted Registered Holiday Club Breakfast Club After-School Club
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Savernake 01672 870790 Marlborough 01672 519009
Award Winning Pet Food & Accessories Shop Open: Mon to Sat 9am - 5pm 5 London Rd, Marlborough
01672 513 830 www.marlboroughpetshop.co.uk
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To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
Vets4Pets Marlborough RCVS accredited practice 4 Locally owned and run 4 Experienced pet loving team 4 Excellent clinical facilities
including in-house lab, operating theatre, digital x-ray, and separate dog & cat wards
4 RCVS accredited
Karien White
BVSc MRCVS - Veterinary Surgeon and Owner
Chloe Malin
RVN - Registered Veterinary Nurse and Owner
Did you know, we are now an RCVS accredited practice? This means that the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has inspected our practice and concluded that Vets4Pets Marlborough is providing the highest standard of animal and clinical care. Look out for the logo! To learn more about why RCVS accreditation is so important for your pet, visit: vets4pets.com/rcvs
Vets4Pets Marlborough Marlborough Business Park Call us: 01672 529 020 or visit: vets4pets.com/marlborough Opening times: 8.30am - 7pm Mon - Fri, 9am - 12 noon Sat
Vet’s Column
Holiday Hazards The upcoming festive season is a special time of year, allowing many families and their pets to celebrate and enjoy spending time together. But beware of the hidden dangers which could cause problems for your furry four-legged friends… • Chocolate – this is toxic to dogs and cats as it contains the chemical ‘theobromine’. Even small amounts can cause agitation, tremors and heart problems. Please avoid putting any wrapped chocolates under the Christmas tree, as the temptation may be too great for some! • Grapes and their dried products eg. raisins – these are very toxic to dogs, ingestion of just one could potentially cause severe kidney failure. Remember to keep festive food items such Christmas pudding and mince pies well out of reach. • Alcohol – can have a similar effect in dogs as it does in their owners, best avoided. • Christmas dinner leftovers – gravy and stuffing often contains onions which are toxic to dogs and cats, causing vomiting, diarrhoea and severe delayed onset anaemia. Also carcass bones could potentially cause an intestinal obstruction. • Artificial sweeteners – some sweets contain a sweetener called ‘xylitol’ which is toxic to dogs, causing low blood sugar and sometimes vomiting and liver damage. • Christmas trees – ingestion of pine needles can cause a stomach upset, and the sharp tips could cause internal damage. • Batteries – very dangerous to dogs and cats, if the alkaline material leaks out when swallowed, this could cause severe corrosive internal injuries.
• Silica gel – although labelled ‘do not eat’, the small sachets found in the packaging of new items are actually considered low toxicity. • Antifreeze – this is very toxic to cats and causes severe kidney failure which can be fatal. •Holly – the plant is considered low toxicity but the berries can cause a stomach upset. • Ivy – usually the Hedera species in the UK (not the American poison ivy), this can cause a stomach upset and irritate the skin if significant contact occurs. • Mistletoe – European mistletoe berries can cause a stomach upset, the American species is far more dangerous. • Poinsettia – causes irritation of the mouth, drooling and sometimes vomiting. • Christmas decorations and wrapping paper – both considered low toxicity but could cause staining of fur around the mouth, and a large amount could potentially cause an intestinal obstruction. If your pet ingests any of the above items, please seek veterinary advice immediately. Drove Vets
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Christmas Recipe
Soft Chocolate Mousse wit h Black Figs This recipe for a simple Chocolate Mousse can be made in advance and is ready to serve when needed. It’s ideal for dinner parties and a real crowd pleaser over the festive period. Ingredients 250ml Milk 250ml Double Cream 4 Egg Yolks 85g Caster Sugar 200g Chocolate with 70% cocoa solids, broken into small pieces Method Start by whisking together the eggs and sugar in a large Pyrex bowl until fully incorporated. Now heat together the cream and the milk in a large saucepan and bring to the boil. Pour the cream and milk over the eggs and whisk together; place the mix back in the saucepan. Using a thermometer, bring the mixture up to
85ÂşC. One this temperature is reached, pour over the broken chocolate and whisk everything together. Once all the chocolate has melted into the cream, pour into a food blender and blend for 2-3 minutes. This gives the Mousse its shine and silky texture. You can now store in a suitable container in the fridge until the mixture is set. To serve, warm a metal spoon and scoop the mousse on to the plates. Garnish with fresh Figs and a sprig of fresh mint. Mark Osborne
Ho ho ho...
Santa Fun Run
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To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
Classic Cars
Porsche 928 The Porsche 928 has to be one of the most unappreciated cars of all time. It was conceived in 1971 as a replacement for the quirky rear engine 911 but it was 1977 before it finally made it into production. After that, Porsche kept making it for the next 18 years with only minor changes, proof that they got it right first time. On the face of it, the 928 was a fairly standard grand tourer along the lines of the Jaguar XJS or BMW 6 Series. It was a front engine, rear wheel drive coupe with 2+2 seating and a big V8 under the bonnet. However, the styling was from another planet at the time – sleek, low and wide with a muscular front and beautifully curvaceous rear. The round headlight pods lay flush with the bonnet and then popped forward when switched on. The polyurethane bumpers formed an integral part of the body, a first for a production car. Many of the body panels were made out of aluminium, saving weight and preventing rust. The light, compact engine was mounted well back from the front wheels and the gearbox was located at the rear axle to give perfect 50/50 weight distribution. The 928 was much sportier than its rivals. The 4.5 litre V8 kicked out 240bhp at launch but was quickly uprated to 4.7 litres and 300bhp. The low weight, sophisticated suspension and perfect weight distribution meant it could outhandle anything on the racetrack, including its 911 sibling! 300bhp in a 1500kg car equated to 0-60
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in 5.7 seconds and 155mph top end. By 1987 the 928 was a genuine 170mph supercar. Despite this, it was also a superb grand tourer. The sporty handling was matched with a compliant ride, it was truly luxurious and remarkably refined. Equipment levels matched a luxury saloon and the hatchback tailgate and folding rear seats made it surprisingly practical, although the back seats were really only for children. This car was just as much at home on the Autoroute as it was on a twisty B road. Despite 18 years of production, there are only around 700 left on the UK’s roads, yet the fact it has been relatively unloved means that entry level prices are low. You can pick up a tidy 928 for £11k, less if you opt for a car from the early 1980s. Unusually for a classic car, early examples fetch less money than later models, with top dollar being reserved for cars from the 1990s. Truly pristine examples are changing hands for over £50k. So, which one to buy? In 1987, the S4 was introduced. The engine was bored out to 5 litres, it got a facelift with more modern lights and bumpers, bigger more attractive
alloy wheels and a rear spoiler and numerous other improvements. The S4 is a more desirable car than earlier models so that’s the one to go for. The 928 looks best in muted metallics such as gunmetal grey or midnight blue; black or cream leather is also the order of the day. Most of them have an automatic gearbox, which is fine, but if you can find a manual it’s worth buying just for the novelty value. Many cars on the market have high mileages but don’t let that worry you, the 928 is incredibly well built and most have blemish-free service histories. The Porsche 928 is desirable on so many levels; it is a thing of great beauty, a technological masterpiece that combines brutal performance and sublime handling with comfort, refinement and practicality. Currently, they are cheap to buy and cheap to run; expect 25mpg on a run, endless reliability and cheap servicing. At a time when most classic car values are dropping back from the highs of 2015, prices for the 928 are rising strongly. All this will appeal to the heads of classic car buyers, but the 928 is also a car that appeals to the heart. Kit Johnson
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