Marlborough town and country may 16 by Marlborough Town and Country

Issue 97 . May 2016 People Mike Tupman Town Cryer

Features Magical tidying What's a PLACWo? Vet's column

News Marlborough Town Council

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On In and around Marlborough

Information Community groups Local Businesses

Editor’s Letter Spring is sprung!

I couldn’t resist the front cover picture this month, the dog looks so happy bounding through the bluebells. May is the month that the bluebells are in full bloom, along with hundreds of other beautiful flowers and plants. It’s one of my favourite months of the year, everything looks so rich and abundant and full of the promise of Summer. This year dog owners may be a little nervous of taking their dogs bounding through the bluebells, as West Woods was associated with several cases of Alabama Rot – a disease in dogs which can cause kidney failure. Luckily, there have been no new cases since January, and the vets that have been conducting research into the disease do not advise avoidance of any particular locations – citing the rarity of the disease and no proven link to the environment. If you are nervous, check out the link to Anderson Moore’s factsheet on Drove Vets website www.drovevets.co.uk. Vet Kiri Brown joins us as a columnist this month and will be providing healthcare tips for your animals over the next few months. I hope you are enjoying Spring as much as I am, no doubt Marlborough in Bloom will be encouraging us all to make the area beautiful again this year – I’m looking forward to all the lovely displays around the town. See you next month.

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 June 16 issue is due by 7 May 2016.

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People

Mike Tupman Mike “Tuppers” Tupman, MBE, is Marlborough’s newly appointed Town Cryer. A widower, Mike lives in Burbage with his Jack Russell, Bob. He has two grown up daughters, and four nearly grown up grandchildren.

Are you from the Marlborough area originally? No, I was born in Leicester and grew up there. After several jobs, I joined Fry’s chocolates as a merchandiser, and after a promotion was sent to North East Essex as a territory manager. I had just got married to Marelene, and our first home was a farmhouse that we rented on a pig farm – we lived there for a year and it was brilliant! After that we moved to Lincolnshire for a while and then we came to Burbage, where I’ve now lived for over 40 years. I stayed with Cadbury/Fry’s for the rest of my career, and took early retirement at 56. You didn’t really “retire” though did you? I suppose not, as I was working in my voluntary role as a special constable. A neighbour of ours who was a regular police officer suggested it to me after I was looking for something to do when I gave up playing football in my early forties. I joined up and carried on for the next thirty years, only recently

Mike Tupman (left) with outgoing Town Cryer Alf Johnson

retiring. When I was working I only did a few hours a month, but after I retired from Fry’s I usually did two shifts a week, about 60 hours a month. What’s the difference between a special constable and a regular police officer? Technically none, you get the same uniform and equipment and have the same responsibilities and powers of arrest. It’s just that it is completely voluntary. You have to be community minded I suppose. Marlborough has been a fantastic place to be a special constable. When I started you learnt on the job, but now there is excellent training. Often people start as special constables before becoming a regular police officer. What sort of things did you have to deal with? All sorts – Marlborough is not exactly a crime capital, but it gets its fair share

of shoplifting, burglary, drunk and disorderly and so on. Also, a fair number of accidents such as cars hitting deer, or other vehicles. I have had to deal with some very sad incidents as well as the more mundane. There has also been the occasional funny moment. Give us an example or two. I was once called to a house in Back Lane, by an elderly couple whose equally elderly house guest had managed to lock himself in the loo. There was nothing for it but to break the door down, so I charged at it shoulder first as I had seen on the best TV cop shows – unfortunately the only thing that broke was my collarbone! Eventually, I managed to kick the door in at the latch (which is the correct way), but it was a rather painful lesson! Another time I was trying to break up a brawl outside

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People a pub in Marlborough, when my specs flew off. I shouted “Stop! My specs are on the floor!” and amazingly everyone did stop and helped me find them. What was the most memorable thing about your time as a special constable? For me, it was being awarded an MBE for services to the police. It was a real honour, it was hard keeping it secret from everyone for weeks before it was announced! It was presented to me by Prince Charles, and I had a fantastic day at the Palace. I took my two daughters, and we went to the Ritz for tea, and later to Richard Branson’s roof garden. It was fantastically organised and all the people at Buckingham Palace were very courteous and helpful. The day ran like clockwork, and is a special memory. I keep my MBE in a drawer with my police medals. Your next role is as Town Cryer, how did that come about? I know Alf Johnson, the retiring Town Cryer – we often crossed paths, and whenever I saw him I always used to joke that I would have his jacket one day. I had recently had to retire as a Special Constable, so when the Town Council announced that they were looking for a new person as Alf was standing down, I put myself forward pretty much straight away. I have all the required attributes – I’m

not shy, can be rather loud, and enjoy dressing up! I’m a great traditionalist, and I think the role will suit me down to the ground Have you performed your Town Crying duty yet? No, the first time will be at the Mayor Making ceremony in May. I’m still waiting for my uniform – its being made at the moment. There are more duties than just Town Cryer aren’t there? Yes, I am also the Beadle which again is a ceremonial role, and I am the town’s Official Ale Taster, which means I have to visit all the pubs in the town to check their ale. (It’s a hard job, but someone has to do it!) I think in a year there probably a dozen or so official jobs to do, and apparently this can be supplemented by other jobs where people can hire the Town Cryer to publicise events in the town. I’m really looking forward to the role – I enjoy getting out and about meeting people. What do you get up to in your spare time? I enjoy playing golf – although I’m not very good! (I play off a handicap of 22). I also enjoy watching sport – I’ll sometimes go with my grandson to watch Swindon Town, he’s a big fan. I enjoy pottering about in the garden, though I wouldn’t describe myself

as a gardener – I basically cut the lawns and have the odd bonfire… I’m very lucky in that I go to Goa for a month every year – I started going with my wife 18 years ago. Before that we never went to the same place twice, but we loved it so much there that we returned every year. Over the years we got to know people, so now that I am on my own I don’t mind travelling there alone, as I know I’ll know people when I get there. The people are fantastic and I always thoroughly enjoy the break. I also enjoy taking the dog for a “walk” to the pub to meet up with friends. Do you enjoy reading? I’m not a big reader, but have recently discovered audio books – so I read by listening. I enjoy crime drama and have been listening to a novel about Luther (the TV detective played by Idris Elba). Listening to the story really lets your imagination run riot. What about music? Not a big music fan – I enjoy listening to the radio, but mostly talk programmes. I’m a big fan of Radio Five Live. What do you like most about Marlborough? Everything – I even like the traffic rumbling through. I love Wiltshire and I think Marlborough epitomises the county. I love the place and the people – I wouldn’t change a single thing!

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Local News

Warning on Rat Poison after otter found poisoned An otter that briefly found fame after a photograph of it posted on Action for the River Kennet’s Facebook page feeding on fish was viewed more than 12,500 times, was recently found poisoned. Toxicology testing confirmed that the otherwise healthy male otter had been the victim of rat poison. The ‘dog’ otter had suffered an acute bleed into the stomach and traces of the rodenticide Brodifacouom were found in his liver. Brodifacouom is extremely toxic to all mammals and is legally only certified for indoor use. This is a very aggressive single feed poison. ARK’s Stonebridge project officer Anna Forbes said ‘With only 2,000 otters in England it is terrible to think of them needlessly dying. Every year wild animals like otters, and domestic pets like cats and dogs are killed by rat poison used recklessly or incorrectly. This particular poison is at least 50 times more dangerous to dogs compared to some other rat poisons.” Rats are a problem in many areas and ARK understand the need to control them, but urges anyone using rat poison to read the label and use bait boxes with the legal and appropriate bait, and not place them close to the river. “Otter populations have declined catastrophically over the last 20 years because of pollution including organo-chlorine pesticides and habitat destruction as riverside areas are drained and cleared. Stonebridge Wild River Reserve provides an important

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protected habitat for otters and it is a delight to see them using it. To find a poisoned otter so close to this safe haven is devastating. It is very important to spread the message about correct use of rat poison to allow otters to thrive along our chalk stream.” Hopefully the otter didn’t die completely in vain, his body has been sent to The Cardiff University Otter Project (CUOP) which runs a long term environmental surveillance scheme, using otters found dead to investigate contaminants, disease, and population biology across the UK. The project is very interested in this otter because he is the first they know to measure positive for Brodifacoum. The external and internal examinations are extensive and will add to existing record observations and measurements, and archived biological samples that can be of great benefit to ecological research. www.cardiff.ac.uk/otter-project Happily, there have been further signs of otters along the Kennet since this otter died, which is good news for wildlife lovers. Let’s hope that people are more careful with regards to pest control in the future.

Julia’s House a winner at Enterprising Wiltshire Awards Julia’s House, the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospices,

Judges were impressed by the charity’s unique, landmark model of care, offering Wiltshire families flexible support at home and in the community and for its innovative fundraising , encouraging celebrities to help kick-start funding for a new children’s hospice for the county.

Chief Executive Martin Edwards said he was proud that the work of the Julia’s House team had been recognised by the Wiltshire business community. “Our expansion into Wiltshire has already made a huge difference to local families. Typical comments from parents describe the frequent respite and care provided to them as a “lifeline” and “invaluable”. “Before Julia’s House nurses moved into Wiltshire, this model of holistic community and home care was not available to exhausted parents. Our expert care staff have provided end-of-life care at home, instigated innovative oncology care which enabled children to stay at home, provided frequent respite to exhausted families and specialist therapy for surviving siblings. The Care Quality Commission recently rated our service ‘outstanding’. “Our dedication to this service is underlined by plans to open Wiltshire’s first children’s hospice next year which are well on schedule.”

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The New Greyhound Farewell to................... It’s time to bid farewell to Town Mayor, Cllr Margaret Rose, as she passes the role onto her successor, Councillor Noel Barrett-Morton at the Mayor Making ceremony on Monday, 9th May. Her mayoral year has been a very busy one and she has attended more than 100 civic and other events, representing Marlborough right across the county. She masterminded the delightful Alice in Wonderland event at Priory Gardens last summer and arranged for our surprise guests – Scouting for Girls - at the Christmas Lights Switch-on. Most of all, she will be remembered for the magnificent work she has put into raising money for The Brain Tumour Charity, exceeding any amount raised for the Mayoral Charity in recent years. Thank you Madam Mayor.

Neighbourhood Plan

Another milestone has been reached - our application for the designation of our Neighbourhood Area has been accepted by Wiltshire Council. This means the parishes of Marlborough, Mildenhall, Preshute and Savernake will be working together towards

a Neighbourhood Plan for the whole of the area. The Steering Group will be asking for comments about Marlborough’s future from residents, businesses and organisations right across these parishes. Watch for leaflets and an Open Day at the Town Hall very soon.

Public Conveniences in Marlborough

At the beginning of April 2016, Wiltshire Council closed its public conveniences across the county. Town and parish councils were asked, at short notice, whether they wanted to take on these facilities. The toilets at George Lane Car Park in Marlborough were amongst those set for closure. The Town Council recognises the importance of providing these facilities to its residents and visitors and has taken on this building via a Community Asset Transfer. Currently, there is no funding to provide toilet provision at George Lane and with existing running costs for this toilet block at just under £20,000 per year and no significant investment made at the site for many years, Town Councillors have decided to sell its toilets at Chantry Lane and use the proceeds to upgrade the George Lane site. Although, there will be no public toilets at George Lane for a short time whilst we raise the funds through the sale of the Chantry

Lane building, this is a real chance to upgrade the town’s facilities. We are discussing renovations that might include not only new and better toilet provision but possibly a small Tourist Information Point and a coach driver’s rest room which all fits in with aspirations to become a Coach Friendly Town. It’s hoped that the George Lane site will re-open in 2017.

Commemorative Stone on The Common

Our thanks go to Mark Nash for the excellent work he has done to voluntarily restore the memorial stone on The Common which is there to commemorate the 347th Station Hospital based there during WWII. This will be tied into an exciting commemorative event involving WWII vehicles which will, hopefully, take place later in the year. It’ll be particularly interesting as part of the Common was used by the US Army’s XX Corps as a vehicle park in 1944. Watch out for more information in the coming months.

Comments and enquiries to the council are always welcome, you can contact us on:Tel: 01672 512487 Email: enquiries@marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk Web: www.marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk Official news from Marlborough Town Council

11 11

Lifestyle

Tidy! I recently read an article in a magazine about a book which was supposed to change lives. We have heard it all before about self help books and, on reading the title, I was still not convinced. The book is called “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo. I read the many glowing testimonials and decided to judge for myself and ordered the book. It is a charming read and set out in simple, but very firm, terms what I needed to do. Having started with my wardrobe I worked through the chapters which instructed me how to let items go unless they “bring me joy”. My mother-inlaw was very “joyous” on receiving bag after bag of my cast-offs. I only cheated and asked her for one item back again. The book was right though. If you tidy according to the simple principles, you should never need to tidy again, just put things away. As I continued through the house (avoiding confronting my drawer bulging with family photos), I had a nagging voice in my head that said, although I was becoming tidier, my family were, let’s just say, a challenge. My son, in particular, moves through the house like the Tasmanian Devil after me as I tidy. I look round and find the floor and every available surface scattered with balls for all sports, fishing gear and his latest inventions

and tools. I wondered how on earth the “Magic” could spread to them. The book read my mind and tackled that very point. I was told to continue with my tidying and the rest would happen. “Really?! Have you met my family? Apart from my son, have you seen my husband’s floordrobe and climbed into my daughter’s bedroom?”, I thought. Well, the magic has begun to take effect. We now have three tidy bedrooms which, whilst not perfect, I can at least walk across without breaking an ankle to open the curtains. The book hints at this tidiness bringing life changes and happiness. I would suggest that it’s still a little too early to see if my life has changed, but there are certainly far fewer conversations with the usual script of “where’s my {insert name of item here}” followed by “Where did you last have it?”. Whilst my mother-in-law is chuffed to bits with her new wardrobe, there is one person who loses out here. My lovely cleaner now has three extra rooms to clean. In the past, I would steer her away from them saying, “If you can’t get in, it can’t be cleaned”.

I am much more aware now of my surroundings too. Marlborough and its surrounds are, on the surface, fairly clean and tidy, but sometimes we need to really focus to see the sheer volume of litter and dirt that is cluttering our environment. Many local villages have tidy up weekends several times a year which are admirable. My challenge now is to really look and see and tidy my area of influence and, if I can do that, maybe, just maybe, the Magic will spread. PS For those dear readers who may have read my last article and are concerned about my paper shopping bags, fear not, they bring me so much joy that they have escaped the cull! 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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Hide and Seek: Drawings by Eileen Cooper RA

20 April - 10 September 2016 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

FREE entry Open Wed – Sat, 11am – 3pm Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BA www.swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk t: 01793 466556 e: smag@swindon.gov.uk Eileen Cooper Showing the Flower, 1983, Charcoal and conté 82 x 59 cm Alyce Faye Eichelberger-Cleese, © Eileen Cooper, All rights reserved, DACS 2016

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St Peter’s Press Club

PLACWos at St. Peter’s What on earth are PLACWos? What used to be called Assemblies are now Acts of Collective Worship. When WE organise them, they are known as Pupil Led Acts of Collective Worship. This is far too long to write, or even say more than once, so we shall call them PLACWos. These PLACWos are totally run by us. Small groups of five or six of us, decide on a theme and then try and work out how we can turn our ideas into something interesting and entertaining. Although our teachers do not get involved, if we ask her, Mrs Spindlow helps with costumes, changes to our script and other suggestions. Sometimes she even has a written script that we can use, with a few changes. This happened when a group of us got together to work on the ideas of persevering and not giving up hope and faith. Mrs. Spindlow had a script about Jairus’ daughter who died. Jesus brought her back to life. Our small group was just right for the cast of the play. Each of us chose a part which suited us and it all came together very well. Another PLACWo was about standing up to bullies, using a play about David and Goliath. Now a group is rehearsing a play about justice and real love, using the story of the Judgement of Solomon. This story is about two mothers fighting over a baby because

one of their babies had died. King Solomon said that the fairest way was to cut the baby in half so that each one could have an equal part. One lady agreed but the other one was horrified. Then King Solomon knew that she was the real mother because she would rather lose the baby than see it hurt or worse, sliced in half and killed, These PLACWos do not have to centre round a play, although most do have some acting in them as this seems more interesting than just reading the story. Nor do they have to be based on Bible stories, although most of them are. But all the themes are about making the school a better place to be and helping us be better people. They help remind us how to be kind and helpful; to recognise right from wrong; to respect other people and their belongings and never to give up hope. First we usually tell everyone what our theme is, perform our play and then explain how the play helps illustrate our idea.

These PLACW0s don’t happen every week because, as you can imagine, they take time to think up, to write and to find the right group to work together. We are always busy in school too, so that it is not always easy to find time for rehearsals. When they do happen, about once a month, they are very much liked by the whole school. Most pupils found them more interesting than the usual ACWos run by the teachers. Generally the pupils we asked found our PLACWos more exciting, more fun and a more humorous way to get the ideas across. They are always different so we don’t know what to expect. What we do know is that the themes will be ones that affect us all, make us think and, we hope, help to make us nicer people and St Peter’s a better place to spend our days. Press Club Members: Emma, Adam, Caitlin, Ella, Ellen, Elise, Jenna, Max, Meenashi and Callum.

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What’s On

What’s On May 2016 Marlborough Community Choir Taster Session Date: Wednesday 4 May, 7:30PM Venue: St Peter’s Church, High St, Marlborough

All are welcome to come try Marlborough’s only acapella singing group. No auditions, no musical experience needed. All parts are taught by ear. We sing an eclectic repertoire of pop, folk, gospel, and World music. More information on

www.marlboroughcommunitychoir.org

or contact Vanessa Lafaye vjlafaye@gmail.com . We’re preparing for another exciting appearance at the Marlborough Jazz Festival in July!

Ramsbury Roxy Brooklyn (12A)

Date: Friday May 6th Venue: Ramsbury Memorial Hall An Irish immigrant lands in 1950s Brooklyn, where she quickly falls into a new romance. When her past catches up with her, however, she must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within. An Oscar nominated performance from Saoirse Ronan. Tickets £4 from Ramsbury Post Office until 1pm on film day or £4.50 on the door Bar and doors open at 7.30pm, film starts at 8pm

Marlborough Artists Exhibition 2016

Affordable Art For Sale Dates: Fri 6 May 2pm – 8pm; Sat 7 May, 9am – 6pm; Sun 8 May, 9am – 4.30pm

Entry is free and Wiltshire Air Ambulance will be supported from proceeds of picture sales On sale will be original paintings in all media, prints, glassware and ceramics. For more information about our group visit: www. marlboroughartists.org

Manton Plant Sale

Date: Saturday 7 May, from 10 am Venue: Jubilee field, Manton

A wide variety of bedding plants for sale

Clarinet and Piano Concert

Date: Saturday 7 May at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough Local musicians Helen Pysnaczyn (clarinet) and Shelley Morgan (piano) perform music by Dunhill, Cooke, Richard Rodney Bennet, Horowitz, Grovlez and Debussy - a programme to suit all tastes. Tickets available on the door.

Friends of Savernake Hospital AGM

Date: Wednesday 11 May, 7 for 7.30pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall

Speakers from Julia’s House (new chidren’s hospice in Devizes) and Cotswold House (Eating disorder unit at Savernake hospital) Come along and find out about how to get involved, and how Friends’ grants help local healthcare. More info from 01672 288167 or email info@friendsofsavernake.org

Venue: Marlborough Town Hall

Marlborough Onscreen Events Suffragette (12A)

Date Thursday 12 May, 7 for 7.30pm, Venue Marlborough Town Hall

A drama that tracks the story of foot soldiers of the early feminist movement, women who were forced underground to pursue a dangerous game of cat and mouse on an increasingly brutal stage. Tickets: £5 in advance £6 on the door box office www.marlboroughonscreen.events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge telephone 07771704253

Marlborough Gardening Association Plant Sale

Date: Saturday 14 May, 9.30am – 12noon Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Entry Free, Refreshments available. www.marlbga.org.uk

Marlborough Folk-Roots presents Megson in concert

Date: Saturday 14 May, 8.00pm Venue: St Mary’s Church Hall, Silverless Street, Marlborough SN8 1JQ

Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards, Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of folk music. The husband and wife duo are Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo) and have gained fame on the British folk scenefor their songwriting, exquisite musicianship and northern humour. Tickets £14 from 01672 512465, Sound Knowledge at Hughenden Yard, Marlborough, or online at www.marlboroughfolk-roots.co.uk

Brilliant Young Pianist Recital

Date: Sunday 15 May at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough Ashley Fripp returns to play a programme which includes music by Bach, Ravel, Chopin and Ades. Tickets (£10/£8 for StP and MBG members) available from The

Suffragette

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What’s On Great Bedwyn Music Society presents Jubilee Strings

Date: Friday 27th May, 7.30 pm Venue: Great Bedwyn church.

Jubilee Strings (directed by John Kane) with world-famous trumpeter Crispian Steele-Perkins in Baroque solo pieces and string music by Elgar, Part and Tchaikovsky. Admission at the door £14, children free. Details 01672 870271

Further afield: Bridge of Spies White Horse Bookshop, Sound Knowledge or on the door.

Marlborough Onscreen Events Frankenstein, Live from the Royal Opera House

Date: Wednesday 18 May, 6.45 for 7.15pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall

Frankenstein is a period adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Gothic tale of morality and our craving for love, companionship and understanding. This production choreographed by Liam Scarlett artist in residence at the Royal Ballet. Tickets: £15 in advance, £17.50 on the door, box office www.marlboroughonscreen. events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge telephone 07771 704253

History Society Lecture Date: Thursday 19 May at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough

Local historian Neil Stevens lectures on “Yanks in the Kennet Valley - the friendly invasion of the Marlborough area by the USA in the Second World War”.

Ramsbury Roxy The Love Punch (12A)

Date: Friday 20 May Venue: Ramsbury Memorial Hall

Spanning locations in Paris, London and the French Riviera, ex-husband and wife Richard and Kate’s banter suggests that the flames of their former relationship have not been fully extinguished. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for their retirement nest egg which is wiped out when his investment firm is defrauded. Starring Pierce Brosnan, Emma Thompson, Celia Imrie and Timothy Spall.Tickets £4 from Ramsbury Post Office until 1pm on film day or £4.50 on the door. Bar and doors open at 7.30pm, film starts at 8pm

Marlborough Onscreen Events Bridge of Spies (12A)

Date Thursday 26 May, 7 for 7.30pm Venue Marlborough Town Hall

In the Cold War, a lawyer, James B. Donovanis was recruited by the CIA and involved in an intense negotiation mission to release and exchange a CIA U-2 spy-plane pilot Francis G Powers. The pilot was arrested alive after his plane was shot down by the Soviet Union during a mission. Starring Tom Hanks and Mark Rylance. Tickets: £5 in advance £6 on the door box office www.marlboroughonscreen. events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge, telephone 07771 704253

EU Referendum: Question/ Answer session

Date: Friday 27 May at 7.00pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough

Megson

Dr Molly Scott Cato, MEP for the South-West will be available to answer your questions about the EU, as the nationwide debate on the EU referendum enters its final month.

Celebrating Art in the Garden

Dates: Thursday 26 May Sunday 12 June,11am - 6pm. Open Bank holiday Monday 30 May. (Closed Tues 31 May and Mon/Tue 6/7 June) Venue: West Lavington Manor, West Lavington, SN10 4LA

A stunning private garden, a welcoming community run café and inspirational contemporary sculpture make for a magical combination. ‘Celebrating Art in the Garden’, the 2016 sculpture exhibition at West Lavington Manor in Wiltshire has all three. Staged by voluntary organisation The Friends of the Garden, this year’s exhibition forms part of the Rural Touring Arts programme run by Wiltshire charity Pound Arts. The Manor’s gardens extend to over four acres and incorporate 17th century terraces, lawns shaded by magnificent mature trees, a Japanese garden, and extensive borders. Yew topiary frames many spectacular views. Entrance: Adults £7, seniors £5, under 16 free For further information see www.friendsofthegarden.org.uk In association with Pound Arts Rural Arts programme

Swindon in 175 Images

Date: Until Sat 16 July, open Wed – Sat, 11am – 3pm Venue: Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Rd, Swindon, SN1 4BA

175 images in various media, of Swindon over the last 150 years. FREE entry

Hide and Seek

Date: Until 10 September, open Wed – Sat, 11am – 3pm Venue: Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Rd, Swindon, SN1 4BA A selection of drawings by Eileen Cooper RA. FREE entry. On May 16

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Community

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 Inner Wheel Club of Marlborough and District Evening meetings on 4th Monday of every month at the Crown Hotel, The Parade Marlborough. Secretary Nita Martin 01380 730974 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 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

Alexandra Wax and Gerald Payne Registered Members MBACP, counsellors and psychotherapists

07582 968 553 Marlborough www.savernakecounselling.co.uk alexandra@savernakecounselling.co.uk gerald@savernakecounselling.co.uk

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issue 71 . march 2014

People Debi Evans Children’s Author

Features

Look after your feet! Marlborough Science Walking as a soloist Fair

Further Information Telephone: 01793 791104 Email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

News Marlborough Town Council

What’s On In and around Marlborough

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Community Marlborough Choral Society Rehearses every Monday 7.45 to 9.30pm in Christchurch, New Rd, Marlborough. New members welcome, for more information Tel 01672 870765 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 Richard 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

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 Wendy Jordan on 01672 520129. 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

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Community 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 the general well-being of the practitioner. In particular it is of great benefit to older

people. Open to men and women aged 55 and over. New members and beginners are most welcome. Sessions every Thursday, 10-11 am in Burbage Village Hall More details 01672 811711. 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 call Sarah Foxall on 01264 850316 or visit u3ainkennet.org.uk 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, 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

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Community 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 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 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

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Vets Column

Life as a small animal vet My name is Kiri Brown and I have been working in Drove’s Marlborough surgery for nearly two years - I’m really enjoying returning to a small community surgery that gives me the opportunity to really know my clients and their pets. I live in North Swindon but have been exploring the Marlborough area since I moved here to work. It is a lovely part of the world and I am enjoying being part of the Marlborough community. I qualified from Edinburgh University 10 years ago, and I started out in mixed practice, treating cattle, horses, sheep and plenty of companion animals in what was very much a community surgery. I then moved on to jobs in larger practices that covered too large an area. Happily, for the last 4 years I’ve been working solely for small animal practices, so mostly my day consists of dogs, cats rabbits and

a few other companion smallies. I work three days a week in the Marlborough surgery, the other two days are covered by Hannah McNicholas, who started with the practice in 2008 and you have met before in Marlborough Town and Country. This benefits us as a practice, and allows our clients continuity with the ability to see the same person. We have two regular receptionists, and one regular nurse, so we have a lovely close knit team, and the ability to know our clients well. I also work at the Wooton Bassett Branch, and occasionally I’m found at the Hospital for Out of hours cover. I love working in the branches, as it allows me to concentrate more on preventative care and education, as well as treating the unwell. We have the benefit of back up from our state of the art Hospital in Swindon which allows hospitalisation when it is needed. They have an array of equipment and my colleagues’ advanced expertise when cases

need a little more support and investigation. Because it is all part of Drove I can be sure that my patients’ notes and full histories are available to us at all times and I can check on them whenever I want to! I have a houseful of cats as my companions. There is nothing better than relaxing with a couple of them acting as hot water bottles purring away, and generally interfering with my typing, or blocking my view to the TV! I occasionally take them to shows, which provides an excellent social network, and some fun competition. But of course - all of us take the best cats home. Over the next few months, I shall be writing about tips and hints on animal healthcare. For example flea and tick prevention, how to care for your pets’ teeth, and any interesting articles that occur due to interesting cases. I look forward to meeting some of you in the future!

Kiri Brown Drove Vets

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Gardening

Get Your Garden into Shape! Gardens can be exasperating, stressful, high maintenance and a major source of disappointment to far too many people. A bad experience with an untamed plot can even (in extremis) lead to frazzled homeowners seeking the relative solace of a first floor flat with just a token window box to dabble in! The reasons behind all this horticultural angst are many and varied. For those with jobs and families that occupy virtually every waking hour, gardening can be a major chore. Equally, for those who have the luxury of more spare time to get their hands dirty, the stress comes from not really having a clue where to start – not to mention whether spending this month’s mortgage on a border full of specimen plants is a wise investment! There is an obvious solution to resolving your relationship with your outside space – get some professional help! In the same way that you might employ an interior designer to conjure up a magnificent, stylish but still functional interior for your home, a garden designer takes exactly the same approach for the exterior. He or she will listen to your dreams and aspirations and weigh these up against

the usual constraints of the technically possible and any financial limitations. It should be an enjoyable voyage of discovery – learning of the actual size of the plot, the suitability of the soil and aspect and, most importantly, how all of your tick list of requirements can be accommodated. Often it is simply a case of a fresh pair of experienced eyes taking an unbiased ‘root and branch’ review of the plot and assessing the best way to achieve the most amazing garden possible within a given budget. Simply producing a pretty plan is not the end of this process, it is just the start. Finding a suitable contractor, supervising any building works and, finally, dressing the set with beautiful planting should all be part of the remit of any good garden designer. The garden is normally given the lowest priority when it comes to any cerebral or financial considerations when improving a property; often it is simply a dumping ground for all the rubbish that emanates from the inside the house. If there’s any cash left at the end of the process, then the garden might be treated to a few rolls of turf and unattractive slabs

to make a patio – hardly a satisfactory solution for such a key area of any houshold! It may sound overdramatic but having a garden makeover can be a completely life changing experience. I know I’m biased but, given the choice of a new kitchen or a new garden, I’d go for the garden every time (you can tell I don’t do the cooking!). A few years ago I helped turn around a very unloved garden - coming up with a plan which was not only beautiful to look at but also created a new “room” for the house. The family now spend more time outside than they ever have, grow most of their own vegetables and open the garden to the public every year so they can share their pride and joy! By taking the opportunity of a free consulation with a garden designer you can normally judge for yourself if you are happy to work with them to turn your dreams into reality. More importantly, it could lead to you falling in love with your garden again and banishing forever any thoughts of the ‘chore’ word! Jonathan Wild Garden Consultant and Dream Maker..!

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For Free Estimates & Advice Please Ring: Tel: 01672 521 445 or 07873 459 016 NO JOB TOO SMALL NPTC Certified Family Business – Established since 1979

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Legal

Remote Working – Points to Consider Home and remote workers are commonplace, go into your local coffee shop and you will invariably spot people diligently tapping on their laptop. But it is often forgotten that flexible working patterns raise some unique points which all employers should be aware of, but which are all too easy to forget with the employee out of sight. Health and Safety An employer’s health and safety obligations to their employees extends beyond their business premises. Just as they would at the office, it is incumbent on the employers to assess the suitability of the home work environment. This includes the usual points, such as suitability of workstations and the provision of appropriate training. Also, the employer needs to consider if their current liability insurance covers forms of remote working. For employees, homeworking and the creation of a dedicated home office could potentially breach terms of home insurance, mortgages and planning permissions. Employment Contract It is important to review employment contracts for homeworkers to ensure they reflect the situation, in

particular they should review the contract’s place of work and aim to make their ‘base office’ a well-defined term. This becomes particularly pertinent when dealing with redundancies, which are location specific by their nature, so when selecting the pool of selection for redundancy it can lead a thorny question of unfair selection, and a potential claim, if remote workers are not properly considered at the start of the process. Employers should also be alive to the risk of those working remotely from oversees as increasingly happens. This was most emphatically shown in a relatively recent case where the employee had been working in Australia for some four and a half years for her UK employer, she brought an unfair dismissal claim in the UK against her employer and she was held to have UK employment rights. Managing Remote Employees The hours of employment also needs to be considered carefully by the employer. Employees have rights under the working time laws, including a weekly working time limit, a night work limit, time off and rest break entitlements. Mobile technology has made it harder for workers to delineate the end of the working day as emails and voicemails do not stop being received after office hours, and working from home further exacerbates this problem. Managing this can be hard, as while employees can opt out of the 48 hour working week, they cannot opt out of the minimum daily and weekly rest periods and proper training and guidance needs to be provided to the remote worker to best prevent feelings of isolation and lack of support.

Data Protection and Confidentiality Data protection and confidentiality is a very real risk in this pattern of work. All too often in public meeting places someone is blithely displaying that conspicuously titled report, or divulging to all present their client’s name and details of that “big” meeting while on the phone. The employer should have clear communications policies set out, with training provided on the consequences of data and confidentiality breaches for both employee and employer. Suitable technologies and software to limit access, or provide encrypted data, should also be considered by employers for remote workers. Remote working is a positive thing, allowing valuable employees whose circumstances, young families for example, to remain, but employers need to be mindful of the extra issues remote working raise and address them before they lead to major problems. Alex Atkins DGR Law

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Useful Telephone Numbers BT Fault Line 0800 800151 Citizen’s Advice Bureau 0844 375 2775 Electricity Emergencies 0800 072 7282 Environment Agency Pollution Hotline 0800 80 70 60 Gas Emergencies 0800 111999 Marlborough College 01672 892200 Marlborough Leisure Centre 01672 513161 Marlborough Parking Office 01672 511818 Marlborough Town Hall 01672 512487 Marlborough & District HA 01672 512163 National Rail Enquiries 08457 484950 NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Parentline 0808 800 2222 Quitline 0800 002200 Samaritans 08457 90 90 90 Water (Thames) 0845 920 0800 Water (Wessex) 0845 600 4600 Wiltshire Police 101

Swindon in 175 Images Swindon during the last 150 years Wednesday 9 March - Saturday 16 July Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, the editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content. Errors and omissions excepted. Copyright All text, images and design are subject to copyright. Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery,

Bath Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BA www.swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk t: 01793 466556 e: smag@swindon.gov.uk FREE entry Open Wed – Sat, 11am – 3pm Angela Janet Richens, Upper Snodshill Farm, Oil on Canvas, 25 x 48 cm, © Angela Janet Richens Sponsored by

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THE

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