Salisbury Life - issue 234

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 234 / SPRING 2017 / £3

ISSUE 234 / SPRING 2017 / COTTAGE GARDENS

HOPPING MAD FOR EASTER

FAMILY FUN IN SALISBURY

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD TASTY BITES TO CHEW OVER

MAKE A MUSICAL WITH SHOWSTOPPER!

PETAL POWER CREATE A COTTAGE GARDEN

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 234 / SPRING 2017

54 RECIPES Red mullet from Howard’s House

I’ve had a bellyful Easter has to rank as one of my favourite times of the year. There are the obvious reasons: chocolate, hot cross buns and Simnel cake. More than that though – because it’s not all about food – Easter signals the awakening of the new year.

We are lucky in Salisbury to be surrounded by such beautiful countryside and it’s a privilege to see the landscape come alive again after the winter. The city is full of activity too with art, music, exhibitions, egg hunts, hot air balloon rides and football challenges. Our Easter guide on page 10 will give you a steer as to some of the events taking place in April.

Right, back to food. I was lucky enough to sample some of the South African delights at The Chapter House this month. After confessing to my ignorance of food from this region, I tucked into a meal big enough to feed the Springboks. Read all about it on page 58. Or, why not try the recipes from Nick Wentworth, head chef of Howard’s House on page 54. He’s well known for his love of foraging and sourcing local produce. I’m guessing Nick’s delighted at the arrival of spring too even if it does mean early morning starts to hunt for the day’s ingredients.

I’m feeling a bit peckish again...

Katie Nicholls Editor katie.nicholls@mediaclash.co.uk Tweet me @SalisburyLife

REGULARS / ISSUE 234 / SPRING 2017

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M EET T H E T EAM Editor Katie Nicholls katie.nicholls@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Petra Whiteley, Johanna Nancy, John Rose, Catherine Thomas, Andrew Watson Advertising manager Hillary Thompson hillary.thompson@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Head of customer publishing Gary Tipp gary.tipp@mediaclash.co.uk

MAIN FEATURES 10 Easter What to see, do and try this Easter

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager and production designer Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk

40 Gardens Create a cottage garden

THE ARTS

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

25 Arts intro SQUAWK talk at Salisbury Arts Centre

Salisbury Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

26 What’s on It’s showtime in Salisbury this month

36 Arts 1

© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

Make a musical with the Showstopper! cast

38 Arts 2 The art of making at Messums Wiltshire

FOOD 50 Food News Kids nosh, local chocs and a little BBQ business

SHOPPING

BUSINESS

61 Shopping intro

83 Business insider

The future’s orange

64 Editor’s choice Rain, rain, go away...

66 Special shops

54 Recipes

There’s no place like No44 Homeworks

A delicious starter and main from Howard’s House

69 Health and Beauty

58 Restaurant South African delicacies without the airfare

All the latest treats

It’s all gone a bit glam in Salisbury with awards, prizes and galas

PROPERT Y

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury.

We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

94 Property showcase A flight of fancy for £12m

DEPARTMENTS 6 74 77 98

Spotlight Society Tom Brown Salisbury lives

On the cover Come into my cottage garden. Image courtesy of Catherine Thomas

S A L I S B U R Y: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Baking good with Help for Heroes

A performance at Old Wardour Castle – a regular event at the festival

CHARITY

FESTIVAL

CITY OF ART The Ageas Salisbury International Arts Festival has released its programme for 2017. The Festival, taking place between 26 May – 10 June is a highlight in the Salisbury calendar and for its 45th outing, the event is destined to give the city an even bigger international profile. This is also the final year for director Toby Smith’s four-year journey tracing the cardinal points of the compass as he looks westwards to Quebec. The festival will embrace artists from around the world but with a particular focus on the Québécois culture by featuring a mix of dance, theatre, film and literature from the French Canadian province.

Salisbury Cathedral is an obvious and natural focus for the festival and this year it will host a stellar classical music programme including performances from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Chineke! Orchestra and I Fagiolini.

Taking advantage of the beauty of Salisbury, the Festival will feature both indoor and open-air theatre. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men will treat the city to an alfresco performance of Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors. Two Destination Language brings Manpower, a commentary on the shifting identity of Britain’s working men while Québécois Théâtre de la Pire Espèce will perform theatre on a table top.

The Festival has invited top names from across artistic disciplines. Comedy comes courtesy of Rich Hall and Mark Steel; talks with Terry Waite, John Simpson and A C Grayling. Quebec dance company Cas Public with be re-imagining Romeo and Juliet and Illyria return for a family performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes while Quebecois folk band Le Vent Du Nord is one of the many bands performing live over the 16 days. www.salisburyfestival.co.uk

EVENT

BIKE SHOW SAVED The Salisbury Motorcycle Action Group’s Spring Surprise Bike Show 2017 will now go ahead after 11th-hour talks resulted in additional funding being offered by local motorcycle dealer Hayball Motorcycles Ltd. The offer was matched by the Salisbury BID, SP4 Security Solutions and Salisbury City Council. This injection of capital will allow the show to proceed as planned on Sunday 30 April 2017.

Finbar Colson of Salisbury MAG said; “Although it seemed we had hit a wall, dialogue has provided a way through. The show will go on. We are very grateful to everyone who has 6 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

supported us, especially Hayball and Salisbury BID for financially supporting the event.”

Steve Godwin, Business Manager from Salisbury BID added: “We are pleased to be able to support an event that drives additional footfall into the city, particularly on a Sunday.”

If anyone wishes to get involved and volunteer their stewarding services for what is shaping up to be a great event, please contact Fin Colson on 07450 992298 or slippery5am@icloud.com.

To keep up to date with any further developments visit Salisbury MAG Spring Surprise Facebook page.

BAKE FOR HEROES Salisbury-based charity Help for Heroes is asking cake makers and cake lovers to roll up their sleeves and get baking to help raise money for wounded, injured and sick personnel, veterans and their families.

The Bake for Heroes campaign runs between 15 April and 30 April and Help for Heroes organisers are asking volunteers to host a cake-based event to raise vital funds. Register and a free fundraising pack will be sent to you, which includes boxes, a sweepstake game, bunting, balloons and pricing stickers. The winner of the Best Cake Competition will win a trip to London with breakfast and afternoon tea at the Bloomsbury Hotel.

Most importantly, every slice and crumb of your delicious cake will help raise vital funds to rebuild lives. www.bakeforheroes.org.uk; 01980 846459

SPOTLIGHT

FUNDRAISING

ZUMBA-THON

Fogle and Humble back in Longleat

ANIMALS

MONKEY BUSINESS BBC One has commissioned a new series of Animal Park to be filmed at Longleat.

Presenters Kate Humble and Ben Fogle are returning to the safari park to film the new 15-part series. The pair will be reunited with Jean Johansson following the success of last year’s Animal Park: Summer Special, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of Longleat.

The first five 45-minute episodes of the new series, which is set to fill the 9.15am slot on BBC One, will air this Easter with the remaining 10 episodes due for broadcast over the summer.

Longleat’s CEO, Bob Montgomery, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Kate, Ben, Jean and the entire team back to Longleat.

The public response to the 50th anniversary special was overwhelming and showed that there is a real affection for the animals and staff who live and work here.”

BBC commissioning editor, Lindsay Bradbury added: “Animal Park has hit a real nerve with the core daytime audience – and also with a previously untapped audience: children on school holiday. The series is a real treat in the schedule and an opportunity for viewers of all ages to catch up on the heart-warming stories of the animals and their keepers.”

“I am extremely excited that we get to return to Animal Park and I can’t wait to meet some old and new friends.” said Kate Humble.

Co-presenter Ben Fogle added that he was looking forward to creating another ‘brilliant season’ at Longleat.

“It is such an honour to continue making this fantastic show, and it is great that after the roaring success of last year’s show we can spend more time here.” www.longleat.co.uk

On 4 March, Lesley Gault, Heather Kann and Katie Prevett of VP Motorcycles held a Zumbathon at St John’s Place Lower Bemerton near Salisbury, raising £1,600.

The event was held in order to give financial aid to Salli Grant, a Salisbury heath and fitness instructor and owner of Happy Hearts, who sadly lost both her children in a road traffic accident in October 2016.

“Salli has dedicated her life to health and fitness but has understandably been struggling to work due to her loss,” said Vince Prevett. “As she is self employed making ends meet is impossible... we wanted to support her by raising money through exercise.”

The team would like to thank instructors Julie Dymond, Kirstie Pugh, Joshie Young and Vicky Martyn and everyone that helped, attended, donated raffle prizes or took part in any way.

The Salisbury Zumba-thoners

RELIGION

WOMEN OF SALISBURY

Women of Salisbury gather to celebrate at St Thomas’s church

On Wednesday 8 March over 140 men, women and children attended St Thomas’s church, Salisbury for its first International Women’s Day service. The service was organised in partnership with Multitude of Voyces and Godolphin School and was led by Revd Wendy Cooper and Revd Dr Anna-Claar Thomasson-Rosingh. The music was led by Godolphin Vocal Ensemble and a new hymn and special texts were written for the service, which was offered as a celebration of “women’s gifts of words, music and leadership in worship”. Proceeds from the retiring collection will be donated to the Salisbury Women’s Refuge. info@multitudeofvoyces.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 7

Photography by Razia Photography

109 Fisherton Street, Salisbury SP2 7SS 01722 336 575 www.gullicksflorists.co.uk

twenty one b SALISBURY

SPRING 2017 COLLECTION For all Mothers of the Bride or Bridegroom we are clearing the rail to make way for the late Summer 2017 collection, so the opportunity is there for you to purchase a lovely Paule Vasseur outfit at a fantastically reduced price, so come and find yourself a bargain!

PAULE VASSEUR Paule Vasseur being the original signature collection of ‘Twenty One B’

Other collections:

BIANCA, LEBEK , EUGEN KLEIN, KIRSTEN KROG AND GARDEUR Twenty One B, 15 Milford St, Salisbury SP1 2AL 01722 410522 • www.twentyonebsalisbury.co.uk Monday - Friday, 10.00 - 17.00. Saturday, 9.00 - 17.00 Out of hours by prior arrangement

Wedding and race day hats available from the award-winning Vivien Sheriff design studio, Downton, Salisbury Prices from ÂŁ90

15% OFF in APRIL with code ASCOTHAT

For further information and for opening hours call 01725 512983 VIXEN Millinery | Downton | Salisbury

www.VIXENHATS.co.uk

happy

holiday Come rain or shine, there’s plenty for the family to do this Easter break in Salisbury

By Joh a n na Na nc y

EASTER

C

hocolate, bunnies, eggs, spring flowers, warmer temperatures, more chocolate, walks in the countryside… What’s not to love about Easter? Well, bored children who have maxed out on sugar are a dangerous prospect, not that this is something Salisbury residents need worry about. Whether we are blessed by spring sunshine or not, there are plenty of things to do in and around the city over the Easter holiday to keep the whole family happy.

DOWN AT THE FARM

Between 8 April and 23 April Cholderton Charlie’s Farm is running an Easter Eggstraordinaire. Children can join in the Easter egg hunt and meet the Easter bunny, as well as say hello to the farm’s baby animals. Between 14 April and 17 April, Cholderton is also hosting a special Easter breakfast for children. The Easter bunny will bounce in and give each child an Easter egg and read them a story while they enjoy a meal of their choice. Kids can then join Mr Bunny for an animal handling session in the Ewe Tree Café garden. This special Easter event costs £9.95 per child (parents can supervise free of charge). www.choldertoncharliesfarm.com

UP AND AWAY

Aerosaurus Balloons is offering those with a head for heights hot air balloon rides throughout the Easter holidays. “Enjoy a 3-4 hour ballooning experience that includes helping us to prepare for take off; find out how the balloon works then enjoy an hour’s flight with panoramic views of beautiful towns and rolling countryside in Wiltshire,” the Aerosaurus team tell us. “Relax and enjoy a glass of

chilled champagne (or orange juice) and receive your personalised flight certificate signed by your pilot on touchdown.” Not bad for £99 (group discounts are also available). Flights run from 8 April to 23 April from Larmer Tree Gardens. www.ballooning.co.uk

URBAN CANVAS

Salisbury Museum is celebrating Easter with the creation of a giant mosaic as well as storytelling and an archaeology trail.

Creative collective Urban Canvas will be at the Museum on 15 April between 10am and 12.30pm and 1.30pm and 4pm to work with kids in the creation of a gargantuan mosaic. “We are celebrating Easter with an archaeological twist this year,” say the Museum. “A major new exhibition, British Art: Ancient Landscapes, is opening on 8 April and inspired by this we have invited the amazing Urban Canvas to come and help us create a giant mosaic.”

No booking is required and normal admission charges apply; £7.50 adults/£3.60 children/£18.50 family.

KEEP IT CROSSED

Easter at Cross Keys shopping arcade has a sporty flavour this year as the shopping arcade will be hosting a pop-up penalty shoot out with the chance for customers to pit their skills against Salisbury FC players who will be there ready for the challenge between 10 April and 13 April. An Easter egg trail will take place around the shops from 7 April to 15 April, which is also the day for kids to get their faces painted. “We are very excited to offer a whole host of free entertainment this Easter,” says Robert Brown from Cross Keys. “The Easter extravaganza includes an egg trail throughout the arcade, face-painting and Salisbury FC is with us for four inclusive days providing workshops, player meet and greets, and penalty shoot-outs. There’s certainly going to be a lot of smiley faces.” 

CHOCOLATE, BUNNIES, EGGS, WARMER DAYS AND WALKS IN THE COUNTRYSIDE... WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE ABOUT THE EASTER HOLIDAY? Gain a different perspective of Wiltshire with Aerosaurus Balloons

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 11

EASTER

Modern pioneers explore the ancient site of the Old Sarum

WHITE RABBITS

“Come and meet the White Rabbit on our fun and interactive Easter Trail,” say Larmer Tree Gardens of their special Easter event on 17 April. “ Follow the clues and fill in the puzzles and see if you can find your way along the trail. Mrs Greenfingers and Miss Fox will also be on hand to help, entertain and guide you on your way.” Chocolate prizes will be presented to each child and families are welcome to enjoy some time in the garden after each session. There will be three sessions at: 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Children will be charged £4 and one accompanying adult will be admitted free of charge. Normal garden entry fees apply to additional adults. www.larmertree.co.uk

SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

English Heritage is on the lookout for wild-spirited, challenge champions over the Easter weekend. Those who dare pick up the mantle will be visited at Old Sarum by the medieval king of the castle who will be there from 14 April to 17 April. The king will help pioneers crack the clues as they explore the ancient site. There will be a reward for successful adventurers. Of the chocolate variety, of course. www.english-heritage.org.uk  12 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ENGLISH HERITAGE IS ON THE LOOKOUT FOR WILD-SPIRITED, CHALLENGE

CHAMPIONS OVER THE EASTER WEEKEND

Arundells

House, Garden & Art Collection The former home of Sir Edward Heath Prime Minister, Sailor, Musician

The Cathedral Close, Salisbury SP1 2EN. Tel: 01722 326546

www.arundells.org

EASTER

A rather peckish caterpillar at The Arts Centre; below: Eleanor Bartlett’s installation, Requiem, at the Cathedral

THE DEVIL’S PASSION

Playwright and actor Justin Butcher will perform a solo show on 12 April in Salisbury Cathedral’s North Transept. The Devil’s Passion is set in 33AD. When Jesus enters Jerusalem to fulfil his destiny, Satan ascends from hell to stop him and a battle begins for the soul of humanity. Framed satirically against a war on terror-style backdrop of heightened security, fear and surveillance, Satan is a self-styled intelligence chief fighting extremism in the Middle East in defence of our freedoms and the last days of Christ are presented as a counter-terrorism operation by security forces. “A worthwhile and forceful piece of theatre” says The Stage and a fresh perspective on Easter from the ever-progressive events team at the Cathedral. The Devil’s Passion starts at 7pm; tickets £10. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

HOP TO IT

The Easter bunny has left clues around Harold Hillier gardens.

Follow the trail and win a prize, then let the kids enjoy pond dipping or climbing trees or simply enjoy the beautiful gardens.

Originally left by Sir Harold Hiller to Hampshire Country Council, the garden is now run as a charity to promote and celebrate horticulture, conservation, education and recreation. www3.hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens

TALKING TEXTURES

At Salisbury Cathedral this Easter, families can enjoy drop-in workshops themed around local artist Eleanor Bartlett’s sitespecific installation, Requiem. The newly-installed exhibition in the south cloisters comprises 22 wax-covered canvases arranged at varying angles in a line along the cloister floor. Some of the wax for the tablets was sourced from spent candles used during  14 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Do you want a real taste of the Forest?

Then visit‌

New Forest Cider Farm & Tearooms, Burley Free cider & perry tasting, handmade stone flagons, local preserves and cheese, country wines, delicious cream teas and homemade cake.

Tel: (01425) 403589 Email: info@newforestcider.co.uk

www.newforestcider.co.uk 300m from village centre on Pound Lane.

EASTER

the Cathedral’s Darkness to Light processional service. The workshops, entitled Talking Textures will take place on Wednesday 19 April between 10am – 12pm and 1pm– 3pm in the North Transept and will involve crayon rubbing to collect textures from the Cathedral floor out of which participants will create a personalised mixed-media collage. All materials are provided and the workshops are free. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

COLOUR CELEBRATION

Kids love to play with paint and Splash of Colour cafe are pretty keen on it too. The cafe and studio are running a series of workshops over the Easter break, including a potters’ wheel workshop on 11 April, a tortoise clay project on 13 April and making clay roses on 20 April. www.splashofcolourcafe.net

STAND TO ATTENTION

The Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum are hosting a free family drop-in on 13 April. Your Country Needs You! will give kids a taste of history as they take part in a staged recruitment station a la 1917 complete with dressing up and learning how to treat injured soldiers. Could you be a WW1 hero? Here’s your chance to find out. www.thewardrobe.org.uk

A BUG’S LIFE

There’s a caterpillar at the Arts Centre. He is very hungry and is 16 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Meet the latest additions at Cholderton Charlie’s Farm

looking for something yummy to eat. Kids will love helping him find his grub as this timeless classic makes its way off the page and onto the stage. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, this production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar will show at the Arts Centre on 20 April and it features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, faithfully adapting four of Eric Carle’s stories. www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk

GARDEN PARTY

Exbury Gardens will be busy over the Easter hols with a packed roster of events. Kids can choose from a Perilous Plant adventure trail with Mortimer Sparks, Easter egg trails, bushcraft, an owl academy and storytelling. Of course, the chocolate workshops are a no brainer, so book early to avoid disappointment. www.exbury.co.uk

MORE EASTER FUN AT...

Edward Heath’s former home Arundells re-opened in March for the summer season and the house is open to explore over the Easter period (www.arundells.org); pit your karting skills against your mates at Wessex Raceway (www.wessexraceway.co.uk) or get back to nature and spend time with some beautiful and unusual creatures at Liberty’s Centre (libertyscentre.com) and Forest Falconry (www.forestfalconry.com).

EASTER

EDWARD HEATH’S FORMER HOME, ARUNDELLS, HAS OPENED ITS DOORS FOR EASTER

The gardens at Arundells

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 17

Splash of Colour The

Pottery Painting Cafe

Spring is in the air...

Pottery painting for everyone WORKSHOPS DURING EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS See our website for details

Open Mon-Sat 10 - 5.30 & Sun 11 - 3 Closed Wednesdays – except during school holidays

Call 01722 322250 to book a table 72 Fisherton Street, Salisbury SP2 7RB

www.splashofcolourcafe.net

Karen Scott and her team provide dog walking, doggy daycare and home boarding for Salisbury and the surrounding area.

07982 687098 www.happydoggydaycare.co.uk/salisbury

Luxury & local

The most sophisticated audience is just a call away Hillary Thompson 01225 475800

No44 Homeworks

Jonathan GreenAntiques

WANTED Gold & Silver Interiors Courses Classes 44 Fisherton Street, Salisbury SP2 7RB 01722 324773 info@no44homeworks.co.uk homeworks www.no44homeworks.co.uk

No 44

ANY QUANTITY ANY CONDITION

POCKET WATCHES • CHAINS • BRACELETS • RINGS • GOLD COINS • DENTAL GOLD • OLD TROPHIES • CUTLERY • TRAYS • SALVERS • ALL ITEMS OF SCRAP SILVER

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01722 332635

The Antique Market, (rear of ground floor) 37 Catherine Street, Salisbury SP1 2DH

ad v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e I N T E R I O R S

More than a kitchen

New Kyra in Katthult Pine-effect

Cosy cottage atmosphere with the brand new Kyra range.

Kate Stacey from in-toto Kitchens, Salisbury tells us more . . .

W

ith its grooved, woodeffect doors and charming appearance, Kyra epitomises traditional country house and Nordic styles. A handled design (pictured with a Metal D-handle in Matt Black), this kitchen creates a tranquil, homely environment and provides a fresh approach to a classic kitchen look.

According to the 2017 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, over a third of homeowners reported leading a healthier lifestyle following a kitchen renovation. From eating more fruits and vegetables, to Kate Stacey preparing healthy

home-cooked meals, the recent study identifies that the kitchen could be linked to helping to nurture well-being. ‘A cook’s kitchen’, Kyra is the perfect setting for preparing and cooking fresh food with the addition of niche elements such as utensil hanging systems, an induction hob and plenty of clever storage solutions. The Katthult Pine-effect finish, draws its inspiration from the natural world, and further enhances its connection to nature by elegantly imitating the characteristics of real wood. in-toto offers a variety of design possibilities to complement Kyra including, a choice of worktops in the latest high-quality materials and finishes, and handy storage options, helping you to create a kitchen that is individually tailored to your lifestyle.

Discover how in-toto can help you to start enjoying your kitchen again by visiting Kate at in-toto Kitchens on Catherine Street.

For further information please visit your in-toto on Catherine Street or alternatively, you can call 01722 238177 or visit the in-toto website at www.intoto.co.uk

Creative Kitchens G n

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Creative kitchens free design and home visit free to showroom with 40 displays also fittedto showroom with Creative kitchensparking free design and home visit free parking bedrooms and office.

40 displays also fitted bedrooms and office.

Tel: 01722

415417 to book apt.

Tel:Unit 01722 415417 book apt.

3, The BournetoCentre (opp Tesco) Southampton Rd Salisbury Unit 3, the Bourne CentreSp1 2ny

(opp Tesco) RdJanuary Salisbury SP1 2NY (ClosedSouthampton 23rd December to 6th for hols)

THE LARGEST COLLECTION OF TILES IN SALISBURY

OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 07.30-17.00 Sat 09.00–17.00

www.salisburytilestore.net Salisbury Tile Store, Unit 2 Faraday Centre, Faraday Road, Salisbury SP2 7NR Also at: Unit 5, The Enterprise Centre, William Road, Nursteed, Devizes SN10 3EW

01722 325306

salisburytilestore@hotmail.co.uk

EL FR IV EE ER Y D

5TH ANNIVERSARY SALE NOW ON

Winchester 3 seater Sofa RRP £1539 Sale Price £1179

Emsworth 3 seater Sofa RRP £979 Sale Price £749

Stratford Italian Leather 3 seater Sofa RRP £1958 Sale Price £1399

Elegance 135cm 2700 spring Divan RRP £1959 Sale Price £1399

Please visit our spacious showroom to see a huge choice of British fabric upholstery and Italian leather upholstery, dining furniture, bedroom furniture and a large range of British pocket sprung beds. We offer a personal and friendly service to help you in your selections.

Opening hours Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5.00pm 14 Winchester Street, Salisbury, SP1 1HB • 01722 322596 www.pure-comfort.co.uk

Contemporary Original Art for that special investment PICTURE FRAMING AT TRADE PRICES FREE PARKING OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK (MON - SAT)

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PHOTO BY ZOE HUNN

Music/theatre/film/more

SQUAWK TALK

Salisbury will be a riot of music, comedy and cabaret as the Arts Centre host the inaugural Salisbury Queer Arts Weekender (SQUAWK) between 7-8 April.

Celebrating diversity with LGBTQIA talent, the festival will host artists from across theatre, music, comedy, cabaret and drag. Acts confirmed so far include Radio 4’s Rosie Wilby in her new solo theatre show, The Conscious Uncoupling; comedy with impressionist and all-round diva Ceri Dupree with his One Man, 21 Woman act; the London Gay Men’s Chorus will impress with their vast repertoire, while Miss Hope Springs (pictured) will perform songs and tell tales from her showbiz life or, as she so gracefully coins it, from the “Ritz to the pits”. www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 25

31 March – 21 April

Wiltshire during WW1 – Barney Norris’ new play Echo’s End; lock up your daughters, Brand’s in town; contemporary printmaking in II Impress at Fisherton Mill

Theatre 31 M ARC H – 8 APRI L

AS THE CROW FLIES Beth has relocated to the country and is struggling to come to terms with her recent divorce. She is visited in her garden by a mischievous crow named Alfie who doesn’t understand the challenges she is facing. Based on the true story of a woman who struck up an unlikely friendship with a wounded crow, this is a heartwarming story of healing and kindness. As the Crow Flies is suitable for those aged 12 years and over. 7.30pm in The Salberg.

Tickets: £13.50/£9 under 25s. 01722 320333; salisburyplayhouse.com

TO 1 5 A PRI L

ECHO’S END Wiltshire, 1915. As the shadow of war falls over the Wiltshire landscape a young couple find themselves caught up in the turmoil of troubled times. A new play written by local talent and nationally-revered author and playwright, Barney Norris.

7.30pm; £25.00 - £9.50; 01722 320333; salisburyplayhouse.com 3 A PRI L – 8 A PRIL

MY COUSIN RACHEL Linda Hayman, who previously directed Jamaica Inn at the Studio, has opted for another Daphne du Maurier-inspired play with all the essential ingredients for good drama: love, murder and jealousy.

Young Philip Ashley must choose between his head and his heart when he encounters his cousin

26 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ambrose’s beautiful, charismatic widow, Rachel, and falls in love with her. But did Rachel have anything to do with Ambrose’s death?

7.30pm; Tickets: £10 (under 16’s £8); 01722 342860; www.studiotheatre. org.uk

Comedy 27 AP R IL

RUSSELL BRAND One-time lothario and funny man Brand contemplates his new role in life as a father. “What am I going to tell my daughter about conformity and responsibility?

What happens if she grows up to be like me? Or, worse, to date a man like me?” Good question, Russell. Over 16s only. 8pm; £29.50; www.cityhallsalisbury. co.uk; 01722 434434

Exhibitions 12 AP R IL – 2 0 M AY

EBB & FLOW Inspired by their travels to Iceland, Vietnam and Venice as well as more locally at Micheldever Woods, artist Sue Tinkler and photographer Paul Sansome have produced a mixed media exhibition. Rum’s Eg; 27 Bell St, Romsey; 01794 511220; rumseg. co.uk.

31 MAR CH

DARRYN MICHAEL Salisbury-based abstract artist Darryn Michael hosts his second exhibition at Salisbury Boston Tea Party with 14 new works inspired by local landscapes. salisbury@bostonteaparty.co.uk; 01722 330731

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

3 MAY

MOR KARBASI Born in Jerusalem, now living in Seville, Mor Karbasi burst onto the global world music scene in 2008 with the release of her first album The Beauty and the Sea. She has continued to capture audiences internationally garnering comparisons with the globally-renowned singers Mariza and Estrella Morente.

7.30pm; £18/£17 concessions; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk 8 AP R IL

A nut-cracking performance from the English Youth Ballet at the City Hall; (below) Ebb & Flow with artist Sue Tinkler

by the orchestration of the arrangements of Carl Czerny’s piano studies. Part 2 is the Nutcracker Suite, Tchaikovsky’s magical score that follows a Prince who escorts young Clara to the Kingdom of Sweets where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy.

7.30pm; £24 and £22; www. cityhallsalisbury.co.uk; 01722 434434.

Music 8 AP R IL

1 AP RI L – 6 M AY

II IMPRESS Following on from 2016’s Impress exhibition, Fisherton Mill is offering visitors a chance to come back for more with II Impress: a second helping of contemporary printmaking. Showcasing work by a new and diverse group of artists the exhibition runs from Mon-Sat from 10am; www.fishertonmill.co.uk; admin@fishertonmill.co.uk.

Dance 2 1 A PRI L – 22 AP R IL

ENGLISH YOUTH BALLET This progressive company featuring eight professional principal artists and 80 of the most talented young dancers from Wiltshire present a double bill. First up is Ballet Etudes: a one-act homage to classical ballet training as the rigours of the daily ballet class are given a theatrical spin accompanied

POPPIES RED AND CORNFLOWERS BLUE To commemorate the centenary of the Great War, local musician (and organiser of Tisbury’s 2007 folk festival) John Anderson has composed a new show for his band Poacher’s Moon. Written to raise money for charity Help for Heroes, the show features original music and song, poems and narrative before a backdrop of evocative images that follows the lives of young soldiers from rural Dorset.

Victoria Hall, Tisbury 7.30pm; £9/£8 concessions; www. poachersmoon.com; 01258 488640

LONDON GAY MEN’S CHORUS As part of their arts festival, SQUAWK (see page 25) the Arts Centre welcomes this band of merry men who started life in 1991 when nine friends sang Christmas carols at Angel Underground Station to raise money for the Terrence Higgins Trust. The London Gay Men’s Chorus now has over 200 members and is the largest gay choir in Europe. 8.30pm; tickets: £15/£13 concessions; www. salisburyartscentre.co.uk

Family 6 AP R IL

WILD & SCARY Children’s TV presenter Naomi Wilkinson comes to City Hall for a show full of fun and surprises as she is joined by some scary creatures including a Carpet Python, Alligator Snapping Turtle, a giant centipede and a tarantula! Suitable for kids aged five and upwards. 7pm; £19.50; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk; 01722 434434

Sport 9 AP R IL

SALISBURY 10 MILE ROAD RACE The Salisbury 10 is the City of Salisbury Athletics & Running Club’s flagship event. A friendly race suitable for all abilities that follows a scenic route north of Salisbury following the banks of the River Avon to Woodford Valley with fine views of the cathedral spire on the return leg. £15 affiliated/£17 non; salisbury10.salisbury-arc.org

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 27

3rd & 4th June 2017 Vintage Nostalgia at its best... ...Have you got your ticket?

www.vintagenostalgiafestival.co.uk Stockton Park, Stockton, Wiltshire BA12 0SP

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ROMSEY – TOWN OF MANY EVENTS

SATURDAY 24TH JUNE - SATURDAY 8TH JULY This summer will see the inaugural Romsey Festival of Youth Music, showcasing talented young musicians from across the region.

The festival will be staged at a number of venues across Romsey and will serve as a celebration of the high-quality music-making which is being produced by the young people from the town and surrounding areas.

Follow Romsey Town Council on Twitter for updates @destinationroms

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CHRIS WADGE CLOCKS

Guaranteed repairs to antique and modern mechanical clocks FREE ESTIMATES. COLLECTION/ DELIVERY AVAILABLE 83 FISHERTON STREET SALISBURY, WILTS 01722334467 Open Tuesday - Saturday 9-4

RICHARD SALTER THE ARMY ARTIST; A NEW CHAPTER

Artist in attendance Sunday 30th April, 1pm – 3pm Exhibition Saturday 29th April – Saturday 13th May Following an injury sustained in Afghanistan, Richard has just been medically discharged from the army and will be commencing his full-time artistic career slightly sooner than expected. We are delighted to announce Richard’s first show as a professional artist where he will be unveiling a new collection of originals that looks both back on his army experiences andalso forward to his life as an artist.

21 Queen Street, Salisbury, SP1 1EY t: 01722 324000 | e: salisbury@gallery21.co.uk

www.gallery21.co.uk

fT

ARTS

T H E AT R E

LIFE on the EDGE A new musical improvised every night? Surely, the cast of Showstopper! is pulling a fast one? Not so, says improv genius, Adam Meggido

By K AT I E N IC HOL LS 36 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

C

rafting a new musical every night, on the hoof and triggered by ideas suggested by the audience sounds somewhat improbable, if not nigh-on impossible, right? Well, no, it’s not actually. In fact, it’s exactly what the cast of Showstopper!

The Improvised Musical do at every performance when they’re touring this 90-minute show. Not only do the Showstopper! crew form the structure of the show off the cuff, but they also write the music and the lyrics too.

Those who get sweaty palms at the merest mention of improvisation are probably running for the hills right now but listen up Salisbury, this band of actors and musicians is, say The Telegraph, “so polished, it defies belief”.

T H E AT R E

WE ARE AN

ECCENTRIC RAG-TAG BUNCH OF MISFITS AND

ODDITIES AND SOMEHOW THAT

WORKS PERFECTLY FOR THIS SHOW

The cast will have written 80 musicals by the time Showstopper! completes this tour and their three-date appearance in Salisbury comes late in the schedule when they’re nicely warmed up, so you’ll have to work particularly hard to try and fox them with an unusual idea. Not that they’ve ever been flummoxed by an audience member’s suggestion, asserts Adam Meggido. Get your thinking caps on…

What can the Salisbury audience expect from Showstopper!?

A musical! With catchy songs, dazzling dance routines, sweeping storylines and hilarious characters. The only difference with our show is that everything is entirely made up on the spot out of audience suggestions. It’s all 100 per cent improvised.

What inspired you to develop the concept of Showstopper!?

About 10 years ago some of us were working with the great theatre maverick Ken Campbell. Ken was inspired by a troupe he had seen in Canada called Die Nasty. He said that their improvisation was so slick, entertaining and impressive that it was better than a great deal of scripted theatre.

We decided to do the same with a musical.

The Showstoppers love musicals – and we love improvisation – so this project was a perfect fit for us all.

How did such a like-minded group of individuals meet?

Some through Ken and some through Dylan Emery (co-creator/director of Showstopper!). We are an eccentric rag-tag bunch of misfits and oddities and somehow that works perfectly for this show.

Musical number 832? The cast of Showstopper! mid song

Is there a recipe for good improvisation?

The basic principles are actually quite simple.

The rest is practice. It’s mostly about listening: real listening. Listening to each others’ ideas, agreeing with them immediately and building on them. For Showstopper!, of course, we have to know our musicals, so a huge amount of hard work is part of that recipe too.

I imagine that a strong relationship between the cast members is fundamental to the success of this show. Can you almost second guess each other’s responses?

Sometimes, yes. But often the real fun is when we clash and don’t quite catch what’s happening.

The audience sees everything, of course, so they enjoy witnessing these clashes and wondering how we are going to get out of the trouble we have put ourselves in! The relationship is not just between performers but also the band, our lighting operator and, of course, the audience (don’t worry, there is no awkward, forced audience participation in this show).

ARTS

Do you have back-up material that you can pull out of the bag if necessary?

Nope. Never. It doesn’t help to do so. Trying to plan anything in advance actually makes it more difficult to improvise. It’s genuinely easier to stay calm, present and be in the moment. Riskier, yes, but ultimately that’s how the show is created.

Apologies for the cynical tone here, but do you ever get accused of planting audience members with specific requests?

All the time. There are some people who will never believe it’s improvised. I guess it’s a compliment in a way. After all, we set out to create a show that doesn’t look improvised.

But what can we say? It honestly is entirely improvised with no plants or stooges. Some people have seen the show 50 or 60 times! They would have said something by now if they thought we were cheating. Anyway, where’s the fun in having plants in the audience? We genuinely want to be challenged.

How much of the success of the show is rooted in the tension created by the feeling of ‘will they mess up’?

The element of danger is essential. It’s essential in all good theatre but often lacking. Well, you’ll get it by the sackful in this show.

Are you all risk takers? I’m guessing the answer is yes…

Not all of us. But put us on a stage together….

How hard do audiences try to bamboozle you with outlandish suggestions?

A great deal. Usually the ideas are not as imaginative as they initially think. Setting our show ‘in a toilet’ or ‘on the Moon’ sounds outlandish until you realise that a) everybody says it, so it’s not very original at all and b) it would be interesting for about two minutes but it wouldn’t necessarily sustain a 90-minute show. We ask the audience to try to dream up their best ideas and come up with something genuinely inspiring that makes a great musical. Having said that, if you really want it set in a toilet on the Moon, we’ll do it!

You’ve created so many musicals. Do you have any favourites?

Ahhh, so many… I enjoyed a musical called Don’t Look Down about couples who go white water rafting as a kind of therapy. I also enjoyed The Lyin’ King – a story about a newspaper editor (our opening night at the Apollo in the West End). Maybe, with your help, our favourites will be in Salisbury!

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical comes to The Salisbury Playhouse on 20 – 22 April. For tickets and more information visit: www.salisburyplayhouse.com or call the box office on 01722 320333

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 37

ARTS

EXHIBITION

Richard Slee: Blue Red Yellow Saw

MEET the MAKER Messums gallery launch a new season with the help of some big-name artists

A

s part of their exploration into the art of making and the use of natural materials, Messums gallery in Tisbury has lined up an exciting series of events this spring.

The season has an impressive start with Material: Earth, an exhibition that celebrates the use of clay in contemporary art, featuring work from Turner prize winner Grayson Perry, and Edmund de Waal. On 8 April, Messums will also welcome three international artists, Bouke de Vries, Geoffrey Mann and Richard Slee to discuss their work, concepts and techniques in a talk entitled Materials & Making –

By Hand To The Digital Age. Ceramic artist Richard Slee is a conceptual ceramicist who uses the medium to create bold, Pop-Art style pieces that often reflect the zeitgeist with plenty of wry humour (think ‘the Jeff Koons of ceramics’). Despite being laid out on a “chaise lounge with a cold”, Richard rises from his sick bed to discuss his work and his forthcoming talk at Messums.

For those who don’t know you, how would you describe your work?

Ceramic but not always so, colourful, shiny, a little bit bigger than you would expect, emblematic, allegorical.

What can audiences expect from their evening with you?

An insight into what motivates me, maybe some empathy, a personal history of my use of ceramic.

THE ART/CRAFT

DEBATE WAS INVENTED

BY THE CRAFT

WORLD NOT REALISING THAT THE ART WORLD WAS NOT

INTERESTED

IN THE DISCUSSION

You are a rare artist that has transgressed the boundaries that separate the world of art and craft. Would you agree?

Others would have to make that judgement.

I think that my early work was definitively part of a world that is craft but that of an uncomfortable fellow traveller. I have always thought that the world of craft was a small one with its own set of rather rigid rules. That is not to say the larger art world does not have these. The art/craft debate was invented by the craft world not realising that the art world was not interested in the discussion.

38 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Do you think that audiences struggle with the contradiction of ceramics that lack any obvious functionality?

Probably, but most homes, excepting the most minimal and functional, have examples of non-functioning ceramics: the ornament, souvenir, or the vase that never gets filled. Frankly, if I wish to see and own something functional I would go to IKEA.

Will you be discussing the utilitarian aspect of making? Or making for making’s sake?

No, I don’t think so as I have never made anything that has been truly utilitarian nor do I believe in making for making sake, that seems to be more of a pastime to me.

What role do you think the art of making can have now in a digital age?

The digital has already and continues to enhance making, what it leave us is human intuition and creativity.

As our lives become increasingly digitalised, there seems to be a move towards people placing more value on the personal benefits of ‘making’. Do you agree?

The digital was promised as something to set us free, the paperless office that never came but maybe that is to come. Idle hands? I am mystified personally by craft being a therapy but I do enjoy success in making both in myself and others.

Your work has often been inspired by the political and social landscape. How are Trump and Brexit proving as a source for your creativity?

Brexit I find so depressing and eventually dull. I have made work on the subject of English identity and jingoism so at the moment I don’t wish to return. Trump on the other hand I have already and am making work, anger is a good motivation sometimes. messumswiltshire.com

Country Style As spring slowly creeps in and flowers being to bloom, thoughts turn to that quintessential English idyll: the cottage garden

Photo by Cranborne Garden Centre

By C at h e r i n e T hom a s & A n dr e w Wat son

40 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

GARDENS SPECIAL

THE ORIGINAL INSPIRATION CAME FROM VICTORIAN PAINTINGS OF ROSYCHEEKED, RURAL FOLK IN ROMANTICISED COTTAGES WITH GARDENS FULL OF FLOWERS AND ROSES ROUND THE

E

veryone loves a cottage garden.

Rambling roses, foxgloves, hollyhocks, lupins, lavender and geraniums. An abundance of wild flowers and a diverse mix of plants create a colourful playground and a nostalgic atmosphere. Salisbury gardeners, Catherine Thomas and Andrew Watson reveal how to get the look. ď ˇ

DOOR

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 41

PHOTO BY CATHERINE THOMAS

GARDENS SPECIAL

ROSES AROUND THE DOOR

What do we mean by a cottage garden? I think the original inspiration came from Victorian paintings of rosy-cheeked, rural folk in romanticised cottages with gardens full of flowers and roses round the door. The reality was probably much more practical as the garden would have included a privy, pigsty, perhaps a beehive and predominantly vegetables and fruit trees. A lawn was a luxury and only for those who could afford its maintenance. Of course, some flowers would have been grown, especially those that arrived by themselves, such as primroses and violets, or those that were useful or medicinal, such as soapwort. Some of these plants are long lived and can be seen thriving in derelict gardens still. Materials for paths and structures would be locally-made or improvised, such as bricks, flints, hurdles and hazel poles.

The reinvention of the cottage garden as we now know it was a reaction against the artificiality of Victorian estates with their formal lawns, bedding plants and exotica. We think of cottage gardens nowadays typically as informal and abundant with combinations of perennial and self-seeding plants, shrubs and climbing plants are artfully mixed to give a full, billowing, naturalistic effect.

MUST-HAVE BLOOMS

Old-fashioned roses and other scented shrubs should be included. The flowering currant, Ribes sanguineum is a welcome splash of colour and fragrant in spring, followed by flowering cherries and blossom of the fruit trees. The white flowered 42 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The ultimate in cottage garden design: creeping pink roses around a wooden frame

MEET THE EXPERT Catherine Thomas is a Salisburybased landscape designer and a registered member of the Society of Garden Designers. You can contact Catherine at catherinethomas.co.uk or by email: catherine@catherinethomas. co.uk

mock orange, philadelphus and lilac, Syringa vulgaris are lovely in early summer.

Shrub roses, which fit the look are those with double or semi-double flowers as they make a soft, informal, bushy plant. Other possible choices are the true old roses, such as soft pink Maiden’s Blush with its grey green foliage, deep-red R gallica Tuscany, also known as the Old Velvet Rose, and luscious R William Lobb, a moss rose with the soft growth all over its stems and buds that open to reveal sumptuous crimson petals.

Rambler roses have a wild, informal nature and one of my favourites is R Ghislaine de Feligonde, as it’s pleasantly free of thorns, it shades apricot to cream and, unusually for a rambler, repeatedly flowers through the summer. The cottage garden classic R Albertine with its coppery pink flowers is another favourite for this look.

Our native foxglove is a cottage garden musthave – especially the white form Digitalis purpurea f alba for a more sophisticated take on the style.

It can be luminous against a dark background.

Other spikes and spires are delphiniums, lupins and, another cottage-garden essential, hollyhocks.

At the feet of these tall plants can be billowing lavender, hardy geraniums, Alchemilla mollis and Stachys byzantina and self-seeding annuals such as Calendula officinalis.

Cottage gardens offer many choices for bees and butterflies as the flower shapes are so varied that there is something for almost every species.

Birds will also love the shrubs, fruit trees and nesting places.

No wonder we can’t give up our love affair with cottage gardens. 

GARDENS SPECIAL

COMBINATIONS OF

PERENNIAL

AND SELFSEEDING PLANTS,

SHRUBS

AND CLIMBING PLANTS ARE

ARTFULLY

MIXED TO GIVE A FULL,

PHOTO BY CATHERINE THOMAS

BILLOWING, NATURALISTIC EFFECT

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 43

GARDENS SPECIAL

If you’re considering creating a cottage garden, there are some essential design and floral elements required. The good news is that whether you own an acre or a balcony, the beauty of a cottage garden can be created anywhere, says Andrew Watson, head gardener at Cranborne Garden Centre How would you describe a cottage garden?

A cottage garden is one of informal design that incorporates a profusion of ornamental and edible plants. It consists of close planting and plants are often left to naturalise and intermingle with each other, creating a diverse, colourful garden.

PHOTO BY CATHERINE THOMAS

COME INTO MY GARDEN

Classic cottage garden plants include foxgloves, lupins, delphiniums and hollyhocks

Is a cottage garden achievable for those with smaller gardens who live in a city – or even those who just have window boxes or an unusual space?

The cottage garden style can be adapted to fit any size and shape garden. Again using the key elements of informality and diversity. Use a small range of plants and maybe look at more dwarf varieties of the plants.

What are the key elements required to achieve this look?

Three key elements that are common in a cottage garden are: informality, diversity and abundance.

This is achieved with a good mix of annuals and perennials, perhaps small fruit or ornamental trees for structure and generally little or no lawn.

Paths are often gravel or grass to give a more natural appearance Which plants should people be looking for if they want a cottage garden?

Classic cottage garden plants include; foxgloves, lupins, delphiniums and hollyhocks with a huge range of other suitable perennials, as really anything goes when it comes to creating a cottage garden. Part of the joy is that there is a real freedom to add almost anything you like. Annuals are useful gap-filling plants as cottage gardens look best when they are really well stocked.

Cosmos, cornflowers and Ammi majus are a few of our favourites.

Is there much hard landscaping involved with a cottage garden?

There is generally very little hard landscaping in this style of garden and structure is often 44 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

achieved with planting. You want to be able to sit and enjoy the colourful display though, so a seating area would be recommended. Obelisks covered with scented sweet peas or beautiful clematis can add a little structure and height.

As a designer and gardener, what do you enjoy about creating a cottage garden?

As a gardener and plantaholic I love creating a cottage garden as there is such a choice of plants the can be used and a feeling of unrestricted freedom. You can be really creative. There is always something happening in a cottage garden and maintaining one is just as fun as creating it.

MEET THE EXPERT As head gardener at Cranborne Garden Centre, Andrew Watson has found his ideal job as he is a selfconfessed, “plantoholic”. www.cranbornegardencentre.co.uk

What range of wildlife does a cottage garden attract?

The diversity of plants used in this gardening style provide a range of food sources. There will be an abundance of bees and insects visiting your garden – plus, birds, butterflies, frogs and hedgehogs. A cottage garden will provide a feast for your eyes and senses. Lots of colour, scents and activity.

C h a r i t y a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

SUPPORT HORATIO’S GARDEN Providing solace for patients suffering from spinal injuries, Horatio's GARden Salisbury is rich in both natural and artistic beauty as it hosts visiting sculptural exhibitions and live music

H

oratio’s Garden is a Salisburybased charity that creates and cares for beautiful gardens at NHS spinal injury centres. Leading garden designers develop the stunning sanctuaries and the charity is named after Horatio Chapple, a local boy who volunteered at the spinal centre at Salisbury hospital and came up with the idea for a garden for patients who have been paralysed.

Horatio’s Garden Salisbury was designed by Cleve West and opened in 2012. The awardwinning garden has enhanced the wellbeing of patients. It has a peaceful, uplifting atmosphere where patients and their families can find space to be alone or join in with events and activities organised in the garden by the charity.

A team of volunteers, led by the head gardener, maintain the garden and run events including live music and lunches, sculpture exhibitions and artists in residence. Twiceweekly garden therapy sessions give patients creative and purposeful rehabilitation, usually accompanied by a cup of tea and a chat.

“During some of my darkest moments here in the spinal unit, this wondrous garden has allowed me to find solace amongst the beauty of this little escape into nature” says Dina, a former patient.

46 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What’s happening in summer 2017?

Longford Castle open gardens Sunday 11 June, 2-5pm. Entry £5.

Under fives go free.

A rare opportunity to visit the quintessentially English gardens at Longford Castle, which were originally created in the late 16th century. Enjoy delicious cream teas and learn about the history of the Longford gardens from expert gardeners. BBC Gardeners’ Question Time panelist, Bunny Guinness, will be opening the stunning gardens officially at 2.30pm and there will be jazz by the Salisbury Big Band. All proceeds will support Horatio’s Garden.

Sculptures in Horatio’s Garden

Horatio’s Garden stages three sculpture exhibitions a year with work from internationally-acclaimed artists. Past exhibitors have included Sean Henry, Simon Gudgeon and an audio-visual installation by Bruce Munro.

This summer, Horatio’s Garden will be showing ceramic work by Fiamma Montagu who worked with artist, Paul Cummins, to produce the Blood Swept Fields installation of 888,246 ceramic poppies at the Tower of London in 2014.

Food and Plant Fair at Horatio’s Garden Salisbury; Sunday 18 June, 11am-3pm. Free entry.

This year, the range of plants on sale will include favourites chosen by the four Horatio’s Garden designers: Cleve West, James Alexander-Sinclair, Joe Swift and Bunny Guinness. Choose from a selection of artisan and speciality foods made by some of the finest local producers. Come for lunch, teas and homemade cakes and browse the range of handmade crafts and bespoke products from Horatio’s Garden.

For more information, visit www.horatiosgarden.org.uk.

To contact the charity, email info@horatiosgarden.org.uk or call 07429 140918

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F O O D & D R I N K a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

ad v ert i s i n g feat u re F O O D & D R I N K

Foodie heaven Do you love food & drink? Who doesn’t? Then make sure you are signed up to attend the Big Food & Drink Social on Wednesday 26 April, from 6pm - 8pm at the Guildhall in Salisbury

T

he event, which is part of the Salisbury Big Business Event and in association with Salisbury Life, will showcase local producers of food and drink alongside local restaurants, bars, hotels and cafes.

Offering a unique opportunity for residents to come and find out what is available in their local area, the event is free to attend and promises to be a great evening out.

Everyone is welcome and the event organisers have lined up some great food and drink suppliers and producers including Dinghams Cookware Shop, Charter 1227 and Flack Manor Brewery!

All those who register and attend will be entered into a FREE prize draw to win a luxury hamper of vouchers, food and drink from all the exhibitors.

The event is FREE to attend, you can simply turn up on the evening or pre-register at www.salisburybigbusiness.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N S A L I S B U R Y

BAKER BITES

Hot Thai tapas from the Giggling crew

As well as filling their shelves with hot cross buns this Easter, Salisbury’s Reeve The Baker has announced two new additions to its armoury of delicious product lines. The two newbies are: sourdough bagels, which says Sam Reeve, “are made with just flour, salt, water and honey and have the long slow fermentation process. You can buy these filled or as they are. We have also developed an oats and barley sourdough, which has a lovely wholesome flavour”. Please excuse us for a moment, we’re just nipping down to Butcher Row for a sample… www.reevethebaker.co.uk

GIGGLING KIDS We are all in favour of introducing young, developing palates to interesting new tastes, so we welcome the news from Salisbury Thai tapas restaurant Giggling Squid that they are introducing a kid’s menu from Easter. Enquiring culinary explorers can sample from the Giggling Squid menu,

which includes dishes such as green and red curry. The menu allows you to mix and match small plates and you can choose two for just £5.95, which includes unlimited rice.

Colouring pencils are provided and kids can add dessert for just £2.

Sourdough bagels at Reeve the Baker

www.gigglingsquid.com

CHOCS AWAY

Xxxxx 50 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Local chef Alex Seaton launched a new chocolate business, Alexander Chocolate, in January 2017.

Based in Salisbury, this local endeavour is gathering pace led

by Alex’s reputation for care, quality and some great flavour combinations. Alongside favourites such as orange and strawberry creams, Alex likes to play with our tastebuds with his white chocolate saffron truffle and amaretto truffle.

“I’m passionate about local produce and I find myself surrounded by other people that are too. Local produce and local life inspires me. I want to put a little bit of that life into each flavour,” says Alex.

This Easter, Alex will be

launching a limited-edition Alexander Chocolate egg flavoured with local elderflower and homegrown lemon verbena and complete with six unusual spring chocolates.

“Every year watching the elderflowers and berries come out always makes me smile. In Salisbury elderflowers are everywhere, which is what makes this flavour combination for spring so suitable,” he says. The eggs can be bought over the Easter weekend, from 14 April – 17 April from the White Horse Inn, Downton. Or make your order in advance by emailing info@ alexanderchocolate.co.uk. Orders will be dispatched 13 April so they arrive in time for Easter.

www.facebook.com/AlexanderChocolate

FOOD & DRINK

Stick another... fish on the barbie

SUMMER LOVIN’ We’ve only glimpsed a brief appearance from the sun so far, but we suspect that warmer days are just around the corner so it suits us very nicely to learn that the Beckford Arms in Fonthill Gifford are getting ready to crank up the barbeque for the summer season.

Sharky Patterson, general manager at the Beckford Arms told us: “This summer we launch the Beckford BBQ, which will expand on the artisanal wood-fired pizzas that were available every weekend last summer. The menu will include locally-reared meats, fish and a vegetarian option that will change each week. The BBQ is in the pretty garden of The Beckford, and it will run three weekends a month from May until August. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more information and menus, the opening weekend will be the 5-6 May and don’t forget the pizzas which will be kicking off on the 26-27 May.”

Egg-cellent news

BEER BACKED FESTIVAL

Robert Lewis Chocolates and Tea Rooms are gearing up to one of the busiest times of the year with a wide range of Easter-related choccy delights, eggs, bunnies, chicks, gift boxes and hot chocolate. We also heard rumour of a giant egg but we’re still hunting for it!

Ageas Salisbury International Arts Festival has announced that local brewery Hop Back Brewery is once again sponsoring Salisbury Live during the Festival fortnight this year.

Based in Downton, just Beer and festivals outside of Salisbury, make fine partners Hop Back Brewery has been operating since 1986, gaining a reputation for trend-setting and limited-edition beers. John Gilbert, founder and Chairman of the brewery said: “Hop Back is Salisbury’s own brewer of award-winning beers… We have now completed our major refit at the brewery, demonstrating our firm investment in and commitment to continuing future beer production in Salisbury and we are again delighted to sponsor the Festival.”

www.britfordfarmshop.co.uk

www.hopback.co.uk

TOP TREATS

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 51

A friendly country pub, venue and Bed & Breakfast in the heart of the rural village of Damerham.

We serve quality food, wine and ales.

Wishing all our customers a Very Happy Easter

The Compasses Inn | Damerham | Hampshire | SP6 3HQ 01725 518 231

www.compassesinndamerham.co.uk

Giles & Cathy welcome you.

The Boot Inn • Sawday’s Special Places, Pubs and Inns Guide 2016 • Inclusion in the Good Food Guide for the past 8 years • Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence • Village Location • Large Beer Garden • Close to Stonehenge • Children Welcome • Dog Friendly Daily changing, fresh, seasonal menu.

British food, locally sourced where possible.

Fresh fish and chips on a Friday.

Home smoked meat and fish platters.

Themed food nights, last Friday of the month. (please call for details) High Street, Berwick St James, Salisbury, Wilts, SP3 4TN t: 01722 790243 • w: www.theboot.pub e: cathy@theboot.pub

FIXED PRICE LUNCH MENU

2 courses – £12.95 • 3 courses – £16.95 Monday to Saturday, 12 until 2pm.

FIXED PRICE DINNER MENU 2 courses – £17.50 • 3 courses – £21 from 6pm until 9.30pm.

For more details call 01980 677466 or visit www.hisalisbury-stonehenge.co.uk Holiday Inn Salisbury-Stonehenge, Solstice Park, Amesbury SP4 7SQ

FRIDAY 14 – MONDAY 17 APRIL The perfect time to gather friends and family together, join us this Easter for a hearty homemade roast, relaxed drinks by the River Avon and an Easter egg hunt for the little ones.

3 courses: £22.95 per adult or £12.50 per child.

To book your Easter celebration, call 01722 328615 or email res-roseandcrown@legacy-hotels.co.uk.

The Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel, Harnham Road, Salisbury, SP2 8JQ @LegacyRoseCrown

FOOD

RECIPES

EWE’S CURD, POACHED PEAR AND WATERCRESS SALAD (Serves 4) Howard’s House head chef Nick Wentworth sources local curd and serves this dish with black pepper biscuits Ingredients for pears 4 firm pears 250ml red wine 1/2 lemon 100g caster sugar 500ml water 1 star anise

pears are just soft to the touch.

4. Allow the pears to cool completely in the poaching liquid.

5. When cold, remove from liquid and remove the cores. Return to the cold liquid and put to one side. The pears will last for up to a week in the fridge.

Method 1. Carefully peel the pears making sure you keep the natural shape.

2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a gentle simmer and add the red wine, lemon, sugar and star anise.

3. Simmer for five minutes to allow flavours to develop, add the pears and continue to simmer gently for 15 to 20 mins or until the

Ingredients for black pepper biscuits 55g butter 45g grated Parmesan 85g flour 1 tsp cracked black pepper 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme Pinch of salt Pinch of chilli powder

54 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Method 1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor and blitz to a fine crumb, turn out and work into a dough.

2. Roll out on a floured surface and cut with a pastry cutter, place on a baking tray and cook in oven (Gas Mark 6) until they are golden brown.

To serve 1. Place three small spoonfuls of ewe’s curd on to a serving plate.

2. Garnish with sliced poached pear, freshly-picked watercress and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

3. Serve with black pepper biscuits.

RED MULLET, CHORIZO, RHUBARB AND LETTUCE (Serves 4) Seared red mullet, spicy chorizo, tangy rhubarb and earthy, braised lettuce combine to create a punchy dish from Nick and the team at Howard’s House Ingredients 4 fillets of red mullet (descaled and pinned) 8 slices of chorizo 2 sticks of rhubarb (cut into batons) 1 baby gem lettuce (broken down into individual leaves) 25ml rapeseed oil Fresh herbs for garnish 1 lemon 50g butter 100ml vegetable stock Method 1. Place 200ml of water, 100g of caster sugar, 1 star anise and 1 bay leaf into a small saucepan and bring to a rolling boil.

Add the rhubarb batons and immediately remove the pan from the heat. Allow the rhubarb to sit in the hot liquid until it reaches a tepid temperature. The rhubarb should now be just soft to the touch.

2. Heat a large non-stick frying pan to a medium heat, add a splash of cooking oil and gently fry the chorizo until slightly coloured on each side. Remove from the pan and keep warm.

3. Into the same frying pan, place the baby gem leaves, 100ml of vegetable stock and 50g butter. Cook the leaves gently for 1 minute. Season and drain on some kitchen roll to remove excess liquid.

4. Wipe out the frying pan and return to a

medium heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Season the red mullet fillets on both sides and place them in the pan, skin side down, for one minute. Remove the pan from the heat and turn the fillets over, add a squeeze of lemon juice and allow the fillets to continue to cook off the heat.

5. On warm serving plates, place two slices of cooked chorizo in the centre, add a few leaves of baby gem to each plate, a few batons of rhubarb and top with a fillet of red mullet. Finally, drizzle with rapeseed oil and garnish with fresh herbs and a final squeeze of lemon juice. www.howardshousehotel.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 55

BEAUTIFUL FOOD  REAL ALES  WONDERFUL SURROUNDINGS

A friendly welcome, seasonally changing menu, south facing garden, function room, traditional skittle alley, relaxed atmosphere, regular events & themed evenings.

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR ALL UPCOMING EVENTS.

THE SILVER PLOUGH | White Hill | Pitton | Salisbury | SP5 1DU T. 01722 712266 | thesilverplough@hotmail.com www.silverplough-pitton.co.uk

Delicious Indian street food in relaxed surroundings Enjoy Rasheed and Bartkath’s exciting menus along with Chef Kumar’s 25 years of experience.

Ever-changing menus made with locally sourced ingredients and fine craft ales.

90 Crane Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2QD

01722 329700

cafediwali.com

58 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Chapter House Sample the delights of South Africa without enduring an 11-hour plane ride

By K AT I E N IC HOL LS

I

have to confess to a certain amount of ignorance when it comes to South African food. Of course, I expect it to be a relatively vegetarian-free zone with plenty of barbecue options, alongside some Germanic and Dutch influences. An initial glance at the menu of The Chapter House suggests that I am on the right track: Boerewors and wild boar terrine and the sauce options of ‘Bearnaise’, ‘bone marrow’ and ‘monkeygland’ are ticking all the preconception boxes I came with. You won’t be surprised to hear that the ribs ’n’ rump, which consists of 8oz chargrilled rump and a half rack of juicy pork ribs is the most ordered dish at this restaurant.

I am keen to try the wild boar terrine but it’s sadly not available on the day I visit, so I opt instead for one of the two veggie options on the starter menu (yes, there are some!): wild mushrooms on sourdough toast.

A gentle introduction, I thought, to what is going to be a gutsy culinary experience. How mistaken I was: this punchy dish is anything but ‘gentle’.

Indulgent, luxurious and flavoursome, yes. Gentle? No. Soft, chewy, meltin-the-mouth sourdough is topped with a medley of mushrooms in a beautifully-seasoned creamy sauce.

Enoki, pleurotus and shimeji jostle to be the most flavoursome of all and it is a battle my taste buds are more than happy to host.

My friendly waitress comes over unsure if I’m done with the starter.

The portions are so generous in The Chapter House it’s difficult to finish the plate and, anyway, I am keen to leave plenty of space for my choice of main dish: bobotie. I’ve already admitted to my lack of knowledge of South African food, so I’m not ashamed to say that I’d never heard of what is, in fact, the country’s national dish. The description is intriguing. Ground beef steak, baked with a fluffy egg topping, served with rice and Mrs Balls’ chutney. A beef

ENOKI, PLEUROTUS AND SHIMEJI JOSTLE TO BE THE MOST FLAVOURSOME OF ALL AND IT IS A BATTLE MY TASTE BUDS ARE HAPPY TO HOST

soufflé with rice? I am here for a new experience, so this is the dish for me.

While I wait, I have time to look around the restaurant.

The South African owners who took over The Chapter House two years ago, have done a fine job in creating a stylish but friendly ambience. Heritage green and brown upholstery and mix and match vintage furniture give the impression of an easy elegance, while the cowhide patchwork covers are a playful reminder of the origins of the restaurant’s owners. It’s a comfortable place to sit and eat and take in the tourists walking past en route to visit the Cathedral. The welcome from the staff is warm and genuine and they’re happy to chat and talk about the food, of which they’re rightly very proud.

There is a large Malay community in South Africa. The Indonesian presence in the country dates back to the 17th century and so, inevitably, Cape Malay has a large culinary footprint, including bobotie. As with the starter, the portions would more than suffice for a 7ft tall man but at a diminutive 5’1”, would fell me were I to eat it all. It’s a visually exciting dish that’s full of colour: yellow, green and red. The ground beef is, by its own virtue, hearty and when it’s flavoured with curry spices the mix is intoxicating. The creamy baked-egg topping is texturally a lovely match with the meat and just about holds at bay the chow-down instincts that have been stirred by the minced beef.

The dish comes with a South African salsa, which is full of East Asian influence and the ginger, coriander, pepper and onion clean and sharpen the palate. Mrs Ball’s chutney is gooey and sweet and the rice has been flavoured with turmeric and the exotic, aniseed tinge of star anise. What a foursome! It’s 8561 miles to Cape Town from Salisbury but this quartet of tastes has just sent my emotions to the tip of the African continent.

After such a hedonistic mix, I dismiss the offer of passion fruit and blueberry cheesecake and opt instead for a simple scoop of strawberry ice-cream. Sharp, sweet and innocent, it’s a forgiving end to the indulgence of the first two courses and a pleasant come down that brings me home: all the way from the African plain to an English country garden.

DINING DETAILS The Chapter House, 9-13 St John’s St, Salisbury; 01722 341277; thechapterhouseuk.com Opening times Weekdays 12-3pm and 6-10pm; weekends 12-10pm Prices Starters from £6.95; mains from £11.95; desserts £5.50 Vegetarian choice on the day I visit there are two starter and two main options Wine list A selection of quality international wines with good-quality English and South African varieties to pick from Disabled access Restaurant is full accessible Service/atmosphere warm, friendly, chatty Child friendly Families are welcome but more of a grown-up atmosphere in the evening

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 59

Free take away hot drink to the value of £2 with purchases in store over the value of £5.

Offer expires 12th May 2017. Customers must quote that they have seen our offer in Salisbury Life Magazine Easter Issue and they must present their receipt to the café staff to claim their drink.

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm, Sunday 11am - 4pm Well Natural Limited, 15 Queen Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 1EY Tel: 01722 335965 Email: info@wellnatural.co.uk www.wellnatural.co.uk

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

THE FUTURE’S ORANGE

Feast your eyes on this gloriously minimalist delight from Luna Bathroom as seen in Livinghouse Salisbury. Sumptuous curves, an over-sized mirror and a high-gloss orange finish gives this bathroom furniture a 1970s aesthetic, which we have fallen head over heels for.

If orange is not to your taste (why not?), then it’s also available in 35 other shades; the mirror comes in different sizes too. Luna bathroom furniture is made to order in Italy – so the quality is top notch and there’s not a toothpaste tube with a lost lid in sight.

Price: £2,200; www.livinghouse.co.uk; sales@livinghouse.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 61

1 2

RAINY SEASON EMBRACING APRIL SHOWERS

4 3

1. COVER ME

2. WEATHER FOR DUCKS

3. BOOT BOX

4. ALL THAT GLITTERS

Palm umbrella, £29.95 Grey skies and rain? Pah! Defy the unpredictable English weather in April with a bright and beautiful, totally tropical umbrella.

From Casa Fina; 62 High St, Salisbury; www.casafinasalisbury.co.uk

Chocolate ducks, £3 They may look like cute little friends for the bath but these adorable ducks come in white, milk and dark chocolate and are for consumption only.

From Robert Lewis Chocolate Shop & Tea Rooms; 33 High St, Salisbury

Welly money box, £16.50 This ceramic money box makes it easy to save up for a rainy day. Head down to a Splash of Colour workshop this Easter and you could make similar.

From Splash of Colour, 72 Fisherton St, Salisbury; www.splashofcolourcafe.net

Gold brogues, £85 Just imagine how these little beauties will sparkle and shine when the rain’s bouncing off the pavement? Singing in the rain? Yes, you will be.

From Conker; 11 The Maltings, Salisbury; 01722 328442

64 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

7

5

6

9 8

5. RAIN WALK

6. A BIT QUACKERS

7. THERE BE DRAGONS

8. A WEATHER MEASURE

9. DAISY DAYS

Linocut print, £90 Layla Khani finds the beauty in April showers with this limited-edition, linocut reduction print, which measures up at 18cm x 18cm.

From Fisherton Mill; 108 Fisherton St, Salisbury; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

Wooden duck, £25 This serene duck from India is flush with rich red hues and is a reminder that these beautiful birds just love an April shower.

From The India Shop; 35 High St, Salisbury; www. theindiashop.co.uk

Umbrella stand, £89 When the heavens open simply reach for your brolly from this oriental-themed umbrella stand in black leather-covered wood.

From Orchid; The Old Barn, Sandydown; Stockbridge; Hampshire; www.orchidfurniture.co.uk

Oak-cased barograph, £650 There’s no excuse for being caught out in the rain with this barograph

by Winter & Son (or check your BBC Weather app).

From Salisbury Antiques Centre; 94 Wilton Rd, Salisbury; www.salisburyantiquescentre.com

Daisy Grow Pot, £7.99 April is the time to get started with some new planting. Julie Dodsworth’s Spanish Daisy Grow Pot makes it easy.

From Fisherton Mill; 108 Fisherton St, Salisbury; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE II 65 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON LIFE 69

NO PLACE LIKE HOME As No44 Homeworks prepares to celebrate its fifth birthday, owner Sherry Fletcher looks back at how it all began

O

nce upon a time, 44 Fisherton Street was a pub with a glamorous legacy. As the nearest drinking hole to the City Hall, it was the first point of call for many a touring band – The Rolling Stones and The

Beatles included.

Five years ago, Sherry Fletcher took a step inside the then dilapidated building and what she remembers as a place in “a sorry state that leaked like a sieve”.

Sherry renovated the building and brought it back to life to create a busy gift and furniture shop and a wonderland of vintage-inspired gifts.

It’s a hub of activity with customers coming in for upholstery and lampshade-making classes as well as for tutorials on how to use Annie Sloan Chalk Paints. The shop also offers leather repairs with Luke Robson bringing shoes, bags and hat boxes back to their former glory and repairing dogchewed boots and coats that have lost their zips.

“Opening No44 Homeworks was something of a leap of faith,” says Sherry. “I had no previous experience of the retail sector having worked in the medical profession for many years. Now our fifth birthday has arrived and No44 is going from strength to strength.”

66 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

As well being the only Salisbury stockists for Annie Sloan Chalk Paints, Sherry provides a showcase for many local producers. “Much of our stock is made in house,” says Sherry. “This ensures exclusivity, which is an important part of our ethos.” Occasional forays across the English Channel also brings a French element to the décor, alongside cards, gifts, soft furnishings and New Forest Chocolates.

Upholstery classes are held weekly at No44 with Luke Futcher teaching traditional and modern techniques. No44 stocks a full range of upholstery supplies and fabrics and offers advice to customers who want to tackle their own projects.

Vintage-inspired gifts and accessories, original pieces, fabrics, candles, and plenty of boho chic all help to create a warm, inviting atmosphere inside No44. “Fisherton Street has so many unusual shops and businesses and we are very happy to be a part of this community,” Sherry says. “No44 had a long history during the rock and roll years as it’s where famous bands of the time refreshed themselves after their gigs at the City Hall. Hopefully, it will now make its mark as an inspiring store as No44 Homeworks.”

No44 Homeworks; 44 Fisherton St; 01722 324773; www.no44homeworks.co.uk

No44 Homeworks owner Sherry Fletcher sells a menagerie of vintage and vintageinspired furniture and ornaments while Luke Robson (top left) offers leather repairs at No44 Homeworks

SPECIAL SHOPS

SHOPPING

FISHERTON

STREET HAS SO MANY

UNUSUAL SHOPS... WE ARE VERY HAPPY TO BE A PART OF THIS COMMUNITY

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 67

RUTH BARLOW HYPNOTHERAPIST I provide affordable, effective help to...

STOP SMOKING REDUCE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION LOSE WEIGHT ACHIEVE GOALS FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF

Make your resolutions rock-solid!

Work with, not against, human nature!

For more information please contact Ruth Barlow on 01722 330957 rthbrlw@gmail.com www.ruth-barlow.com

Making the world a better place one smile at a time

Essjee Essjee’s concept is very simple: excellence that you can trust It brings together a team of highly-skilled professionals that are ethical and dedicated to delivering the very best cosmetic and aesthetic treatments with exceptional client care and no gimmicks.

Some of our treatments include:

Permanent Makeup • MicroMeso Facials Professional Makeup Application & Lessons HD Brows • Wrinkle Smoothing Injections & Fillers – with so much more coming very soon!

www.sarah-gibb.com Tel: 01722 510011

01722 413513

info@thedentistsalisbury.co.uk www.thedentistsalisbury.co.uk

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

HEY, BEAUTIFUL

Bishopstrow’s luxurious spa facilities

As a new season approaches, give your body a boost and indulge yourself with a spa break, massage or miracle treatment SPRING FRESH SPA

Back by popular demand, Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa is running a spring special offer this April. Enjoy a 55-minute treatment of your choice, use of the spa facilities in the Halcyon spa and choose between a twocourse lunch or a full afternoon tea on the terrace – all for £99 (normal price £175).

Plus, you can bring a friend for free to enjoy the spa and lunch/tea as well as 20 per cent off their treatment. The offer must be taken by 30 April. An Easter treat perhaps? www.bishopstrow.co.uk

COLOUR REMEDY

If the cold weather has taken its inevitable toll on your locks, Salisbury hair salon The Colour Rooms can help as they tell us about their new treatment, NaturalTech’s Nourishing Vegetarian Miracle Conditioner.

“The Miracle Conditioner will add moisture to the hair making it soft and shiny whilst

MIRACLE CONDITIONER WILL ADD MOISTURE AND HELP TO MAKE THE HAIR STRUCTURE MORE EVEN

improving condition and helping to make the hair structure much more even,” says owner Debbie Davidson. “It has a deeplynourishing formula that is great on dry and damaged hair types, leaving them soft and shiny.” The Colour Rooms is offering this treatment in salon for an extra £10 or as a home-use product for £16. www.thecolourroomssalon.com

TAKE ME AWAY

It’s no exaggeration to say that we will take any excuse that we can find to a) indulge in some pampering and b) spend a night

in a luxury country hotel. So when the two come together it’s a killer combination.

Howard’s House and Vita Skin Spa have joined forces to offer a couple’s luxury spa break that includes a three-course seasonal dinner and country breakfast, half a bottle of champagne on arrival, a luxury spa experience at Vita Skin Spa featuring two hours of treatments for a couple and full use of the relaxation area and infrared sauna.

One night break for two people costs £425; two nights for two people costs £650. www.vitaskinspa.co.uk; www.howardshousehotel.co.uk

AN INTENSE LIFT

Neal’s Yard new remedy Frankincense Intense will give your skin a herbal refresh.

The properties of frankincense are well known and Neal’s Yard has combined it with micro algae, linseed oil and ribose to lift and recontour the skin. Massage this serum into your skin, breathe in the aroma and feel the stress slip away. www.nealsyardremedies.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 69

H e a lt h & w e l l b e i n g ad v e rtisi n g f e atur e

Get set and leap into spring Well, walk at least! SARUM PHYSIOTHERAPY is ready to help you get motivated as the seasons change

W

e discovered that Friday 7 April is 'walk to work' day. Well, it seems to be in the US at least, but it got us thinking about putting a spring in our own step. As the weather improves and the days become longer you might be thinking about the summer months, the bikini you’d like to wear or putting those trainers on.

With spring just weeks away It’s time to think about healthier eating and putting the slow cooker away. We are all staring to feel more sociable and going out seems less of a chore because, quite frankly, we don’t have to wear as many layers. The sun shines, the garden is beckoning for our attention and at the back of the drawer you might have rediscovered your sport clothing.

There is no time like the present to get motivated and get out there, blow the cobwebs away and clear the sinuses! Whether you decide to get back to a sport you love, sign up for a challenge or simply get the garden ready, life has a habit of getting in the way. It’s easy to find excuses not to get started, so here are five tips to get you leaping into spring.

1. Go now (well after you have read this, obviously) and check that your sport clothing and equipment is fit for purpose. Do your trainers need replacing? Your racquet restringing? Or does your kit need a good wash?

2. Take action and make that call. Re-join the gym, reconnect with a sports club or if you fancy trying something new why not see what your friends are up to?

3. Set a goal, what is it that you want to achieve? Do you want to run a 5K for charity, loose a few pounds or get into that pair of jeans? This is a great way to stay motivated, especially when you can celebrate the milestones along the way.

4. Schedule activity now this might seem silly but unless you add workouts or exercise into the diary you will find something else to do.

Work out the best day and time for you to be active that fits into your schedule.

5. Prepare yourself and get that body fit for exercise. During the colder months we have a tendency towards heavier and unhealthy food options, so have a look at what you are eating.

Finally, don’t let old injuries hold you back or hamper your chances of achieving your goal. It’s very easy to ignore aches and pains when we are busy but if you have any concerns please come and see us. Let us give you a full body MOT to ensure that you are leaping into, and not limping towards, spring this year.

213 Devizes Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 9LT Tel: 01722 415055; www.sarumphysio.co.uk

‘Hair free is…

Care free’

Pain Free Laser Hair Removal • 01722 346324 • www.vitaskinspa.co.uk

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

MORE THAN JUST A SMILE Dr Michael Zeck and Dr Karim Barsoum are waiting to welcome you at their beautifully converted barn within the small village of Odstock on the outskirts of Salisbury

W

e boast outstanding dentistry, friendly service, picturesque views and free parking. The atmosphere is calm and reassuring with plenty of time to discuss your options, treatments and any concerns you may have. Using the most up-to-date skills and technology, we offer the full range of routine and cosmetic treatments from our highly-trained team.

Alongside conventional dentistry we also offer wrinkle rejuvenation and invisible braces.

On your first visit to The Barn you will be greeted by one of our helpful members of staff who will show you around the practice and answer any questions. Once seated in our comfortable lounge area, Michael or Karim will greet you before taking you through to continue with your patient journey.

They will take time to listen to what you would like to achieve before continuing with our extensive 35 point dental health assessment.

Your examination commences with a

comprehensive mouth cancer check. Our next step is to assess your teeth and create a computerised record of all previous dental work.

Following this, the health of your gums is checked for any signs of gum disease. In addition, we will also be taking a detailed look at your jaw joints, the way your teeth bite together and take any x-rays that might be needed. You can be totally confident in knowing that at every dental health assessment you will receive the same great quality of care.

The Barn Dental Clinic has teamed up with the wonderful Mrs Shelley Baker. Shelley is a well-established Aromatic Therapist in Salisbury and is one of very few qualified aromatic medicine practitioners in the UK. She holds an Honours degree in Biological Sciences and has been a qualified practitioner of Clinical Aromatherapy and Aromatic Medicine for more than 15 years.

Working together with Shelley enables us to provide an excellent and innovative solution

Confidence starts with a smile; let us help you achieve the smile you feel good about. Southern Smiles offers bespoke denture solutions using state of the art techniques and materials. ✔ full and partial dentures ✔ implant-supported dentures ✔ in-house laboratory for customised fit ✔ flexible dentures ✔ clinical dental technician and dentist 9a Catherine Street, Salisbury SP1 2DF Tel: 01722 410430 Monday - Thursday Friday GDC number 135012GDC David Bevan

9 - 17.30 9 - 13.00

number 135012

The Barn Dental Clinic, The Avenue, Odstock, Wiltshire, SP5 4JA Tel: 01722 414285 www.thebarndentalclinic.co.uk

ile sm ife ur r l yo you ge e an ng ch cha

Southern Smilesltd

for patients who may be nervous about dental treatment. The relaxation benefits of aromatherapy are available as part of your dental care to ensure you feel calm, positive and relaxed about every aspect of your care.

To join our practice or to find out more visit us online at www.thebarndentalclinic.co.uk.

We are proud to offer a five-star experience on every visit to all our patients.

Treatments that deliver results from a qualified medical practitioner

3D-LIPO

THREAD VEIN TREATMENT

THE REVOLUTIONARY FAT BUSTING TREATMENT

Thread veins, also called spider veins, are tiny, harmless, prominent veins just below the skin surface. They can occur anywhere on the body but most often on the legs and face. Highly effective gold standards treatments available. Treatments are available with both thermavein for face veins and other vascular lesions (instant, safe and permanent results) and Microsclerotherapy for legs.

3D-Lipo – a new dimension in non-surgical fat removal, cellulite reduction and skin tightening.

• • • • • •

Safe Affordable Non-invasive Great results No downtime Inch loss

BLEMISH REMOVAL

WITH CRYOTHERAPY Skin tags, age spots, warts, keratoses

Commended for Treatment of the Year in the prestigious Aesthetic Awards 2015.

For more information or to book a free consultation please call on 01722 632633 or 07493 520517 or email info@drjoannalovatt.co.uk

www.drjoannalovatt.co.uk

Amesbury Physiotherapy PHYSIOTHERAPY & SPORTS INJURY CLINIC

Don’t let those aches and pains stop you!

Amesbury Abbey, Church St, Amesbury SP4 7EX • Tel: 01980 625245 (evening apps available) www.amesburyphysiotherapy.co.uk

Adventures in party-going

SNAPPED! AC ROS S S A L IS B U RY, O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

A GLITTERING AFFAIR

Sue Young, Dominic Young, Peter Salt, Peggy Salt, Tim Barnfield-Jones and Ann Barnfield-Jones

Salisbury jewellers W Carter & Son celebrated their bicentenary with an extravagant bash at the Guildhall on 11 March. Over 100 guests attended, including the Mayor of Salisbury, Derek Brown.

The company directors also unveiled a limited-edition carriage clock designed for the celebrations. www.wcarterandson.co.uk

Photos by John Rose

Jill Dolman, Mia Newman, Jackie Vesey, Micheal Vesey, Julian Newman and Roger Seale Dominic Young and Sebastian Salt

74 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

Mayor of Salisbury, Cllr Derek Brown, Penny Brown and Lady Gooche

Graham Addison and Leslie Kent

J Vandegur and friend

Tad Holmes, Rebecca Hayton and Simon Hayton

S C H O O L D AY S

In prep schools we have a broad curriculum for this subject. We still must learn place names and locate them on a map, we still look at river and coastal environments, we learn how it rains, we look at where people live and why, what jobs they do and how that sits in the global economy and we investigate the processes that shape our world through tectonics. This complements and builds on the national curriculum and provides an excellent springboard into senior school.

KNOWLEDGE IS NOT ENOUGH; GOOD STUDENTS NEED TO HAVE SKILLS Students studying footpath erosion in Devon

TEACHING FOR LIFE

Stuart Whithear, head of geography at Farleigh School, Andover argues that geography is the subject for the 21st century

W

herever you look in the news, there is a geography element.

From understanding the demographics of the American election results to the forces behind the New Zealand earthquakes; and from understanding the climatic reasons behind why the Sahel is so dry, to exploring the development of manufacturing in the Tiger economies of the Far East, you cannot escape a little bit of geography.

In times gone by, geography was all about maps and locations and much of this received a Commonwealth bias. Times have changed.

Geography is now used to synthesise, to evaluate and to determine. In a recent postgraduate survey of Oxford graduates, those with geography degrees were said to be 9 per cent more employable than other humanities subjects, and employers enjoy the diverse range of skills with which geographers leave school and university.

From a young age pupils start to grasp why geography helps them to understand everything else they learn. Take history, for example, where almost any medieval

battleground was chosen for geographical reasons. Agincourt would have been a very different outcome if the Dauphin had seen the weather forecast.

THE HERE AND NOW

At a recent conference, we teachers were posed the task of defining, ‘What is geography?’. We beavered away, discussing the various angles of the answer and we all came to the same conclusion: geography is everywhere, it is in everything we do, how we live in this fast-changing world and the future too. Modern geography involves place, processes, time, people, climate, geopolitics, geology and much more. Geography is the here and now.

These days, knowledge is not enough; good students and future excellent employees need to have skills. Students should be able to enquire, research, plan, think and communicate – what future employer would not want those skills? Children need to be resourceful, to collaborate, think critically and then communicate effectively via different media with their peers. These are skills for life.

Life is also part of geography. We live geography in our everyday lives. The motorway is built on the flood plain of the river or the road simply follows the meandering valley bottom. Our decision to take an umbrella to work or not is determined by the weather forecast we receive before we leave the house (and the weather is big business!). We fly across continents, we use tides and currents when we sail, the beaches we relax on are the result of erosional processes and don’t forget the SatNav we use to get there.

Teaching geography should be fun, vibrant and inspiring. By teaching kinaesthetically with IT embedded into every day teaching using traditional methods can be adapted to the 21st century. Colouring in pictures is still part of geography but so is taking photographs of them, adding them to a digital app, creating a slideshow and then adding a voice-over explanation of the processes involved.

This is teaching for life. If learning is fun and enjoyable – memorable even – learning becomes a joy and not a chore. www.farleighschool.com

Farleigh pupils in Haytor, Dartmoor National Park

For more features like this, visit: www.tom-brown.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 77

Successful, well-established English language school in the centre of Salisbury requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS to host overseas students aged 12-17 on a short-term basis (usually 1-4 weeks).

Both single and twin-room accommodation is needed.

For further details, including payment rates, please contact our Accommodation Manager: James Udell, KIE Salisbury, St Martin’s Annexe, St Martin’s Church St, Salisbury, SP1 2HY Direct line: +44 (0) 1722 346083; Email: james.udell@kaplan.com

7A Salisbury Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8EL 01747 855 984 www.stompshoes.co.uk

H E a lt h & B e a u t y a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Look sharp!

Local business the sharp practice now offers a line in innovative semi-permanent make-up

T

he Sharp Practice is a family-run tattoo practice based in Salisbury which now offers semi-permanent make-up procedures. The business now has two fully trained semipermanent make-up artists who can carry out these procedures. Becky, the owner of The Sharp Practice said: “Over the past few years we have noticed that there has been an increase in people enquiring about this service.” The service is perfect for anybody who applies their make-up daily, sufferers from alopecia or other hair loss problems, allergy sufferers who react to confidential or cosmetic products, disabled people who find cosmetic application problematic, athletes, swimmers and those who regularly take part in sporting activity as well as people who require correction of asymmetry of facial features.

Semi-permanent make-up, with its advanced new techniques and procedures, will enhance your natural beauty and give your features shape and definition without you ever having to visit your make-up bag. Also known as ‘micropigmentation’, this is the term used for applying coloured pigments into the dermal layer of the skin. The procedure is completely safe and effective and is used for a variety of semi-permanent cosmetic enhancements such as eyebrows, eyeliner and lip liners. Women of all ages are experiencing the difference Before

After

micropigmentation can make. After just one procedure you can have stunning smudge-free make-up that will last for several years.

Eyebrows

Anyone who requires the emphasis of the brows will love this procedure and the time saved in never having to pencil again! Once a micropigmentation procedure is complete you can swim, partake in sporting activities or just lie in the sun without the worry of ever losing your brows. Choose between a soft textured look or hair simulation. If you have no brow hair, or sparse eyebrows due to over-plucking, the difference balanced brows can make is amazing.

“enhance your natural beauty and give your features shape and definition” Eyeliner

Q&A How long will the makeup last?

Although pigment molecules stay in the skin indefinitely, the colour will remain visible for several years.

The timescale varies depending on the client’s age, skin type, colour choice and lifestyle.

Make the most of your eyes with micropigmentation. Eyeliner can dramatically define eyes, creating great looks that are long-lasting and always perfect.

Is the procedure painful?

Every client is different, but with advanced new equipment and techniques discomfort is minimal.

Lip Liner and Full Colour

Do I have a choice on placement and colour?

Definitely. The client is in control every step of the way, from desired shape to colour selection.

For a truly subtle and beautiful cosmetic effect, micropigmentation is an excellent way of enhancing the shape and colour of your lips. With skilled application, lips can look fuller and more shapely. This fabulous procedure can help reduce lipstick bleed, ensuring that you have perfect lips at all times. Full lip colour is also available in a subtle shade to crisp, correct or redefine lips.

For a more striking effect, stronger colour can be applied.

Call The Sharp Practice now to find out more or to book an appointment.

The Sharp Practice 2-8 Catherine Street, Salisbury SP1 2DA Tel: 01722 410148 www.sharppracticetattoo.co.uk www.facebook.com/SharpPracticeSemi PermanentMakeUp

How long will it take?

You should allow a minimum of 1½ hours for a new procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

Immediately post-procedure the area treated my appear swollen and the colour will appear darker and more intense. This will last for several days. Complete healing can take up to six weeks for the pigment to mature in the skin and the true colour to emerge.

What other procedures are available?

Micropigmentation is extensively used in the medical profession for CPC work; areola restoration, scar camouflage, burn patients and cleft lip reconstruction. www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 81

PC/Laptop Repairs 01722 330112 07827 928384 www.itechsupport.co..uk enquiries@itechsupport.co.uk 167 Fisherton Street Salisbury - Wiltshire - SP2 7RP Open 6 days a week - free parking available Laptops • PC's & Tablets • Sales Upgrades & Repairs • IT Support iPhone & iPad Repairs PROUD TO BE A SALISBURY INDEPENDENT BUSINESS

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S A L IS B U RY G E T S S ER I O US Animating the Archives with Salisbury Cathedral

ARTS

LOTTERY MONEY FOR FESTIVAL Local community groups to benefit from Heritage Lottery Fund Ageas Salisbury International Arts Festival has announced that it will receive a grant of £28,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for a new project in partnership with Salisbury Cathedral, entitled Animating the Archives.

As part of the Learning and Participation programme of the 2017 Festival, Animating the Archives will allow local community groups unprecedented access to a treasure-trove of some of Salisbury’s most fascinating historical artefacts. Rarely-seen manuscripts, letters and documents stored in the Cathedral will be explored by five groups, each paired with an artist and tasked with creating performances, exhibitions and online resources inspired by what they find.

The five groups will consist of pupils from Sarum Academy who will work with musicians from SoCo Music; students from Wiltshire College collaborating with visual artist Henny Burnett; young carers from across Wiltshire who will be creating short animations with City Eye; older people living with dementia will be dancing with Rebecca Seymour and Viv Gordon and local veterans will work with Stephanie Jalland from Hoodwink Theatre. A seminar will be held on 9 June to

celebrate the creative journey of the previous six months as well as explore what has been learned about the relationship between heritage and the arts.

Salisbury Cathedral’s outreach work for 2017 centres around the theme of memory, and the aim of this newly-announced project is to bring the archives of the Cathedral to life, while finding new and inspiring ways for the wider community to interact with them.

Salisbury Festival Learning and Participation Manager Sophie Amstell said: “What excites me most about this project is that it will use multiple art forms to bring this important archive collection to life. I can’t wait to see what the community groups each create and I’m looking forward to their exhibitions and performances.”

Salisbury Cathedral Archivist Emily Naish said: “Archives are often thought of as dusty and, frankly, a little bit dull so it’s incredibly exciting that the Cathedral archive is going to be central to such an innovative and creative project.”

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“I GO POWER LIFTING” Crikey! Find out who’s pumping iron on page 89

12m THE BIG NUMBER

Got a cool £12m to splash out on a house this spring?

The Ageas Salisbury International Arts Festival runs from 26 May – 10 June 2017; www.salisburyfestival.co.uk

Find out more on page 94

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BUSINESS INSIDER Matthew Boatwright

NEWS STORIES Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories happening right now

BASSETS IN THE GUILD Bassets Tisbury is celebrating the achievement of their Tisbury director Matthew Boatwright after he gained an advanced professional qualification. After completing the necessary training, Matthew has been granted the title of advanced associate member of the Guild of Property Professionals: the UK’s prestigious network of independent agents.

Bassets is the exclusive member of the Guild in Salisbury and Tisbury.

To pass the examination, candidates are required to demonstrate thorough

knowledge and understanding of 40 modules that are organised into four key components: fundamentals of effective selling; valuing and property appraisal skills; marketing and property promotion and developing your estate agency skill set.

Matthew is now an advanced associate member of the Guild of Property Professionals as well as a member of the National Association of Estate Agents.

Bassets Tisbury on 01747 859359

Winners! The team from Fawcetts

QUIZ NIGHT Salisbury-based charities Swan Advocacy and Children’s Chance are financially better off following the success of Salisbury’s fourth annual Corporate Gala Quiz, organised by Salisbury Rotary Club in association with Salisbury BID, Salisbury Chamber and the Federation of Small Businesses.

Held at the Salisbury Arts Centre, 28 teams took part in the Corporate Gala Quiz and a total of £6094 was raised, which will be split between Swan Advocacy, Children’s Chance and other Salisbury Rotary Charities.

Congratulations goes to the Fawcetts team who took home the winner’s title and trophy, following a tiebreaker with the Simon Ward Photography team. Rachel

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Turnbull, organiser of this year’s quiz would also like to thank all the teams who took part during the evening as well as the sponsors and auction/raffle prize donors.

Martin Starke for acting as quizmaster, Ian Newman for running the auction and her fellow committee members for helping to put on the event and make it such a huge success once again this year.

If you’d like to get involved with the Salisbury Rotary & Business in the Community Group, they are in desperate need of more communityminded volunteers to help organise their ever-growing calendar of communitybased events. www.salisburyrotary.org.uk; david.clayton@bassets.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

VITA ON THE UP Vita Skin Spa in Salisbury was delighted to receive the award for South West Spa of the Year at the English Hair and Beauty Awards on 19 March. “We were so shocked to find that we were winners for South West Spa of the Year for the third year in a row!” said Nikki Spicer, Spa Director. “It is all down to our wonderful clients for voting for us and to our amazing team of therapists.”

Now they’ve done the glam and glitz of the awards ceremony, the team at Vita Skin Spa are toughening up in preparation for a Tough Mudder challenge on 7 May. The girls will tackle 12 miles of obstacles: ice baths, mud, small spaces and climbing.

All money raised will be donated to the Salisbury Hospice, a charity close to Vita Skin Spa owner, Nikki Spicer who lost her

mum to cancer in 2015. “She spent her last days at the hospice,” says Nikki. “The care they gave was amazing and it is a very special place. Ever since then we have been raising money for this wonderful charity.” www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Vita-Skin-Spa

HEALTHY SALISBURY

SALISBURY SALON NOMINATION Salisbury hairdressing salon Sienna Taye was delighted to be nominated in the Best Salon category at the English Hair & Beauty Awards held at a glamorous event in Leicester on 19 March.

Salons from across the UK competed for an award from this prestigious ceremony.

The Sienna Taye team didn’t win but they were thrilled to be nominated by their clients, particularly as the salon has only been open since 2016. “We are very lucky to have such supportive loyal clients to make this achievable. The evening had a great atmosphere and it was amazing to have so much talent under one roof.”

Salisbury health retailers Well Natural has been particularly focused over the past year on making available a wider variety of new and innovative brands. The team has also been working hard to promote local health and well-being practitioners.

Thanks to the success of their endeavours, Well Natural is happy to report that there are plans underway to create a new, in-store space for practitioners to work from. Although details can’t be confirmed as yet, Well Natural says it has many other exciting projects in the pipeline, including an increase in the number of Well Natural locations.

www.siennataye.co.uk

www.wellnatural.co.uk

Well Natural: plans for expansion?

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BUSINESS INSIDER BID

MEET THE RANGER Salisbury BID employee Andy Milton is a familiar figure on Salisbury’s streets and he is always around to help local businesses, advise passers-by and help keep the city looking spotless. Let’s find out a bit more about this roving City Ranger…

Are you Salisbury born and bred?

No, I was born in Plymouth. So, I’m from the South West, but not from Wiltshire. Now I live in Salisbury with my wife, two adult children – oh, and my two dogs.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a City Ranger?

The diversity of the job means that every day is different. Working as a City Ranger has opened many new doors to different experiences as well as other roles, such as becoming a volunteer CCTV operator and police cadet leader. The other thing I really enjoy is that I meet lots of new people every day and although I may not always remember the name, I always remember the face.

What makes you feel the most proud?

Besides from my two boys, I’m proud of achieving a job that I set out to do.

I spend a lot of my time working with different authorities and agencies trying to get jobs completed.

What are your ambitions?

I want to continue to assist local authorities and businesses in making Salisbury a more safe, clean, vibrant city. Represent the businesses and feedback their ideas to the BID and ensure they are followed through.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Salisbury on a Saturday night?

Stay in and watch ITV Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway (or X Factor) with a Jack Daniels. …and on a Sunday morning?

Recover from aforementioned Jack Daniels. I also often find myself at a car boot sale on a Sunday.

If there was one thing you could change in the city what would it be?

Too many to list! But one thing would be to have all pavements restored to their original status of paving slabs instead of tarmac.

LEGAL Q&A Batt Broadbent’s Jo Clements Jo Clements, head of Batt Broadbent’s private client department unpicks the new rules regarding inheritance tax exemption How is the inheritance tax system changing?

From April 2017 a new inheritance tax exemption can be claimed to be set against the value of someone’s property and will be called the Residence Nil Rate Band. The exemption will begin at £100,000 and will increase by £25,000 for four years. This means that by 2020/2021 the exemption will be £175,000.

Is this in addition to the existing inheritance tax exemption?

Yes. Estates will still be able to claim the existing exemption of £325,000.

www.salisburybid.co.uk

Say hello to Andy, Salisbury’s City Ranger

Are there any conditions that have to be met to claim the Residence Nil Rate band?

In order to claim the additional allowance estates have to be left to ‘direct descendants’ eg a surviving spouse or civil partner and children. There is wide definition for children and this includes step-children as well as foster children. Having certain trust arrangements in place within a will can also prevent the new allowance being claimed.

An example of how the new system will work.

On the first death, if an estate is left to the surviving spouse or civil partner no inheritance tax is payable due to the spouse exemption. On the second death, if the estate is left to direct descendants the second estate can claim two nil rate bands (each being £325,000) meaning a total of £650,000. The estate will also claim two Residence Nil Rate bands. By 2020/21 when this is £175,000 it will mean the estates may be able to claim £1 million worth of inheritance tax exemption.

If you wish to review your existing arrangements in light of the introduction of the new Residence Nil Rate Band please contact Jo Clements or Alison Bamber in our Private Client Department on 01722 411141; www.battbroadbent.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

ESTATE AGENT

SALES FORCE Jacquie Owen, head of residential at Savills has been leading the Salisbury team to success for the last seven years

A

s head of residential at Savills, Jacquie Owen has been at the mercy of a mercurial political and economic landscape.

Luckily for Jacquie and her team, the housing market has managed to remain relatively stable and Salisbury reflects the wider UK picture with buoyant sales under £1m and 2017 already looking optimistic. Jacquie’s residential team is made up of six members who take responsibility for the marketing of properties in and around Salisbury. They cover a large area, from Devizes in the north, down to Fordingbridge in the south, from Wincanton in the west across to Whiteparish in the east.

We caught up with the sales tour de force to find out a bit more about the business.

What was your career path leading up to this role?

I started my career as a secretary for a bank.

Then I managed a print shop before training as a photographer. I went on to be an account executive for a commercial photographer, which involved cold calling companies to try to win business – not an easy task, but I was quite successful at it. Some days I would be booking in a shoot for a well-known cornflakes company and the next I would be sending the photographer to the Caribbean to photograph hotels for a luxury travel company – sadly, I never got to go to the Caribbean to help. As my jobs changed, I became quite used to buying and selling houses personally so I decided to do it professionally. I persuaded a wellrespected firm in Shropshire to give me a position as a negotiator and I am very grateful to them for opening the door for me and for all the training in those early years.

a national level because, as you suggest, they can both affect the market. It can be difficult to predict how the market will react, so to have the Savills research team, headed up by Lucian Cook, providing us with regular insights is a very valuable asset indeed.

What changes have you seen market–wise while you’ve been in this role?

Despite political uncertainty, 2016 ended up being a good year for the team in Salisbury with our strongest performance for 10 years. The most active area of the market was for properties priced under £1m, although we also completed a number of sales above £1.5m. We’ve agreed a wide variety of sales so far this year but new instructions have been a little slow to come to the market. Now the weather is starting to improve, we are becoming busier with new instructions. There remains a good level of buyer seeking a home within the Salisbury area with many waiting for the right property to come to the market as there is a definite shortage of supply.

I STARTED MY CAREER AS A SECRETARY FOR A BANK. THEN I MANAGED A PRINT SHOP BEFORE TRAINING TO BE A PHOTOGRAPHER

How would you describe your average day at Savills?

No two days are the same. I start with a morning meeting to catch up with the team and go through the activities for the day – although one phone call can change your whole day. If a prospective client calls and wants advice or would like to view a property, we will always try to accommodate them the best we can, so the day is susceptible to change. I would expect to have a number of appointments in any given day whether it be giving market advice or showing clients around a property.

How much interest do you have in politics and economics as both must have a great affect on the housing market?

I try to keep up to date with politics and the economy on a local and

Are you Salisbury born and bred?

I was born in Shropshire and I had the most amazing childhood growing up on a national hunt stud (Shade Oak Stud). I moved to the Chalke Valley with my husband and children approximately 10 years ago, so we have been here for some time now and know the area well.

As a child, what did you imagine you would do for a career?

I wanted to be a photographer. I did train in a studio but it was soon clear that my strength is in sales.

Tell us something surprising about yourself?

I go power lifting. I go to Alpha & Omega Performance in Salisbury where I train with Adam Hindle. It is a great way to switch off after a busy day. I started lifting by accident. I wanted to get fit so I took myself off to the gym, however I was not keen on jumping up and down or running around, so I started lifting weights. Now I train three times a week and I have entered my first competition.

How do you spend your downtime?

With the family. It’s great to take the time to go for a walk and enjoy the beautiful countryside the Chalke Valley has to offer, followed by dinner at The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe. www.savills.co.uk; 01722 426800

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BUSINESS INSIDER

CARS

MOTOR WAYS The Salisbury branch of Mercedes-Benz recently welcomed a new member of staff and a man with a passion for cars as well as a penchant for bikes Chris Wells, the dealer principal at Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury (left) and Craig Poulton, the new general sales manager

MERCEDESBENZ HAS THE CUSTOMER AND

PRODUCT AT THE CENTRE OF ITS CORE VALUES… WHO WOULDN’T WANT TO BE PART OF THE TEAM?

M

ercedes-Benz Salisbury has appointed Craig Poulton as its new general sales manager. Craig started in the motor trade 17 years ago with Ford; over the last 12 years he has been managing sales, building up from business manager to general sales manager within the Volkswagen group. “The motor industry is an exciting, fast-moving environment,” says Craig, “it’s given me the experience required to enable me to join the Sandown Group at Mercedes-Benz: a rare and fantastic opportunity.

What are you most looking forward to in your new role at Mercedes-Benz?

I’m looking forward to working closely with the team here to maintain the high levels of customer satisfaction that’s achieved at the centre through constantly evaluating and evolving to meet customer expectation. The Mercedes-Benz product is nothing short of amazing with cuttingedge technology and design. Being surrounded by them on a daily basis is a dream come true. Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury has years of experience in the sales team and a large following of loyal customers. I am very much looking forward to meeting them all over time and enjoying a coffee and a chat. Believe me we have great coffee at Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury, so it’s always worth popping in to see us. It’s a pleasure to have joined the team.

What do you think makes Mercedes-Benz a good company to work for?

Mercedes-Benz has the customer and product at the centre of its core values. A coupling that rewards its employees with a huge selection of top-class vehicles to talk to our enthusiastic customers, who really are fans of the brand.

Mercedes-Benz has continued to grow its offerings from the A-Class through to the executive S-Class, not forgetting the exciting AMG range. Who wouldn’t want to be part of the team?

Were you born and bred in Salisbury, or is it your adopted city?

Salisbury is certainly my adopted city, I was born in Bristol and grew up just outside in a village called Winterbourne. I’m looking forward to spending more time exploring the area – it has so much to offer.

What has been your proudest professional moment?

That has got to be when I first became a general sales manager, a role where I could invest time in focusing on the customer and on developing a team to make the customer experience even better. Being in a position to help others reach their goals and become a success in their own right can be extremely fulfilling.

What are your greatest strengths?

My attention to detail, my enthusiasm and my drive. I must admit I’m a stickler for accuracy – that could also be a weakness in some situations. However, I always have a will to succeed, something I have used to get me to the finish line in a few personal achievements, like cycling Land’s End to John O’Groats for charity and completing an Alpine stage of the Tour de France. Both moments I will never forget and without the desire to be the best I can be I would have possibly not finished.

What are your professional ambitions?

To grow within Mercedes-Benz and the Sandown group in the role as general sales manager. I would like to bolster what is already a very successful dealership.

What do you do to relax?

I like to watch films with my wife, Michelle, and spend time with our three-month-old son, Fred. I also like to get out on my road bike and take the odd cycle through the countryside, something that has taken a backseat since our new arrival! www.sandown-group.co.uk

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

DOWNTON ABBEY 94 LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk 112I I SALISBURY CLIFTON LIFE

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

Ladies, gather your skirts and, gents, brace yourselves for a step back in time with a tour around a house that boasts a rich history

By PE T R A W H I T E L E Y

www.mediaclash.co.uk LIFE I I 113 95 www.mediaclash.co.ukI I SALISBURY CLIFTON LIFE

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

O

kay, so it’s not the ‘real’ Downton Abbey – as we all know that’s set in Highclere Castle, Oxfordshire, but this 11-bedroom mansion does sit on the edge of the village of Downton, just seven miles from Salisbury. And, just like the period drama, this impressive pile is a little flight of fancy; but we’re feeling indulgent, so let’s take a look…

Trafalgar Park is primarily the work of two architects: John James of Greenwich who completed the central villa in 1733 and the man behind Bath’s Royal Crescent, John Wood the Younger, who added the north and south wings. A third contributor, architect and painter Nicholas Revett, designed the portico. If you like history how’s this for provenance: after the death of its original owner, Henry Dawkins, Trafalgar Park was given by the Treasury as a gift to the heirs of Admiral Viscount Nelson to commemorate his naval victory in 1805 and it stayed in the Nelson family until the mid 20th century.

John James set out to impress with the entrance hall, which sits in all its Baroque glory, complete with Rococo plasterwork. Positioned at the centre of the villa, from the entrance hall you can explore the principal saloon, an inner drawing room, library and on to the staircase hall with its original open Cuban mahogany staircase (1733).

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The Baroque splendour of its interior is matched by the natural beauty of the surrounding parkland

HOUSE NUMBERS

£12M price

11

bedrooms

1

church

33 acres

So grand is this property that there just isn’t enough space in these pages to walk you through the house room by room, so a whistle-stop tour will have to suffice. There is, however, plenty of room to run and skip through these hallways so let’s do that past the first floor’s six bedrooms, two bathrooms and self-contained flat. The south wing offers a magnificent gallery hall, dining room, kitchen and another self-contained flat with two bedrooms. The north wing is in need of modernisation but it contains some impressive internal decoration by Revett, including a ceiling inspired by the Temple of Bel at Palmyra.

The grounds of Trafalgar Park are on a par with its interior. The approach to the house curves via a gravel driveway, which sweeps through the listed parkland. It sits within a listed 18th century landscaped park, but there’s no shortage of variety with pastureland, woodland and 19th century formal gardens to explore. To the north are tennis courts and to the south a swimming pool and stable block. Also in the grounds is Standlynch church.

Founded in 1147 this once private chapel is now a folly.

If you need anything else to lose your heart to this house, Trafalgar Park borders the New Forest National Park and Cranborne Chase so the views that surround it are as rich in nature as the house is in history. www.savills.co.uk; 01722 426 800

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S A L I S B U RY L I V E S

Q&A

ames Holland says he’s always loved history, “Well, stories from the past at any rate”. He grew up in a household that was passionate about the subject. His father had a love for history as did his older brother, Tom, who has also carved a successful career as a history writer and documentary maker. “We had lots of books about the place and those wonderful Ladybird histories – Alfred the Great, Nelson, Henry V, and so on. I really enjoyed history at school. I was at Chafyn Grove in Salisbury and we had a brilliant Latin teacher called Major Morris. Once a week we had a double lesson called ‘CE’ – Classical Education.

He would simply tell the stories of the Greek myths and draw little sketches in chalk on the blackboard. There was no writing and no exam – we just had to listen. It made a great impression.”

Now working as a well-respected historian, prolific author, broadcaster and the man behind the Chalke Valley History Festival, James is sharing his love for history as he prepares to release his latest book, The War in the West: A New History.

You grew up in Wiltshire where there is, of course, a strong military history. How much do you think this has influenced your interest?

A fair amount. There are lots of barrows, ditches, and ancient droves in the Chalke Valley and the hill forts of Chiselbury and Winklebury. I’ve always loved those places. It seeps in.

For those who don’t know your work, how would you describe your style of writing?

Well, the aim is readability with authority.

Fiction or non-fiction: both have their challenges but which do you find easiest to write?

When I’m writing non-fiction I prefer fiction and the freedom it allows, and when I’m writing fiction, I wish I could have the hard facts and structure I get writing history books. I love doing both, to be honest.

Tell us a little about your new book, The War in the West I got fed up reading books and watching documentaries in which the Allies are rubbished and the German war ‘machine’ always feted and admired. My research has shown me that the British in the Second World War were pretty impressive – as were the Americans – and the Third Reich was built on the shakiest of foundations. There’s a large part of the history of the war that has been ignored; we know lots about strategy and lots about the experience of the ordinary fighting man, but little about what is in between: resources, supplies, economics, and so on – it’s actually very interesting and full of human drama too. People wonder whether

98 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

JAMES HOLLAND The Wiltshire born-and-bred history writer finds time to share his past with us and news of another book there’s anything left to say about the war. There absolutely is. I’m hoping people will find their perceptions challenged.

When beliefs around how events occurred in history become very established, how difficult is it to cast a new perspective?

It’s not difficult to cast a new perspective but it is quite hard to persuade people to change deeprooted views.

How did the idea for the Chalke Valley History Festival develop?

I was trying to think of a way to raise money for Chalke Valley Cricket Club using what contacts I had. I thought of an arts festival, but James Heneage, who is a mate and who used to run the Ottakar’s book chain, pointed out that I was a historian, that he loved history, so did lots of people and perhaps we should start the country’s first dedicated history festival. I thought he had a good point and so we went for it.

Writing books, organising festivals, filming TV shows… how do you fit it all in?

It is a bit hectic at the moment and like a lot of blokes, I’m not very good at multi-tasking. A very, very understanding wife and children is key.

Which is your favourite local restaurant?

No question about it: the Horseshoe Inn in Ebbesbourne Wake.

What’s the best thing about Salisbury?

The Cathedral and Close. It’s beautiful and aweinspiring. Just imagine what people must have thought back in the 14th century.

Favourite local spot?

The middle of the square at Chalke Valley Cricket Club.

Your favourite book?

Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh. … And most-loved piece of music?

I like a lot of very different music, from The Beatles to heavy metal, but if I had to pick one piece above all it would be In Paradisum from Faure’s Requiem.

Tell us something surprising about yourself…

I once managed to get over the line and score a hundred for Chalke Valley: 4 August 2014 at Rockbourne. It still surprises me every time I think about it.

The War in the West: A New History, Volume 2, The Allies Fight Back, 1941-43

by James Holland is published in hardback at £25 by Bantam Press

01373 463535

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