Salisbury Life – Issue 246

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

ISSUE 246 / CHRISTMAS 2017 / £3

PETAL GURU

FEE-FI-FO-FUM

YULETIDE FLORAL KNOW-HOW

WE TELL THE TALE OF THE PANTO CLAN

GIFTS

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AL

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SMART COOKIES

A

SECRETS & PIES

CHRISTMAS COOKING TIPS

EL

C ✱S

LO

ISSUE 246 / CHRISTMAS 2017 / OH CRUMBS!

LAST MINUTE GIFT IDEAS

NDI ✱ I N

DIE

BUY BUY BABY

✱ LOV

…AND OTHER CLEVER FESTIVE TREATS AND

PRITCHE T TS / THE SAUSAGE & MASH COMPANY / CHARLOT TE CHURCHILL HAIR STUDIO / GRILL ADO

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 246 / CHRISTMAS 2017

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LARDER ARDOUR Christmas treats to stock up on

All the trimmings Twas the night before Christmas when we collectively realised the cupboard was bare. Everyone thought someone else was sorting it.

So a festive feast of garlic mushroom pizza was served, with a starter of salt and vinegar chipsticks, and a pudding of jam tarts topped with spray cream. It was fun and it was fine, but I’m not in a hurry to repeat such a bedraggled Christmas Day offering. I will instead be paying close attention to the Yuletide larders musthaves (page 40), including those incredible Juliet Stallwood cookies featured on our cover.

But even the most prepared of us will be dashing through the snow to pick up a few last-minute presents – find our indie inspiration on page 26.

We could all do with the gift of time, which is why we’ve asked some of the best chefs in the land for their top time-saving tips and leftover secrets (page 48).

On page 32 we look at festive floral decorations, and on page 20 we visit the Salisbury Playhouse to meet those who help create the magic of panto.

Wishing you all a jolly holiday and see you on the other side!

Sarah Moolla Editor sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Tweet us @SalisburyLife

REGULARS / ISSUE 246 / CHRISTMAS 2017 M EET T H E T EAM

THE ARTS

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk

15 Arts intro David Spriggs lights the way

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Editor’s photo Chris Daw Contributors: John Rose, Daniel Page and Lucy Rouse Advertising manager Hillary Thompson hillary.thompson@mediaclash.co.uk Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe Kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Gemma Scrine gemma.scrine@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Salisbury Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

16 What’s on Arts, gigs, festivals and family fun – it’s time to update the events diary

18 7 deadly sins Slade’s Dave Hill confesses

20 Panto special An ‘it’s behind you!’ look at the talent responsible for Salisbury Playhouse’s Jack And The Beanstalk

SHOPPING 26 Gift guide II Little, lovely, last-minute and all available locally

HOME ST YLE 32 Decorations Expert advice on how to use flowers for Christmas

FOOD 37 Recipes The Sausage & Mash Company serve up two pudding choices

44 Restaurant

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

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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

Comedy writer Daniel Page goes the full gusto course with Grillado

LIFEST YLE

PROPERT Y 70 Property showcase

48 Chefs’ tips

57 Health & beauty Charlotte Churchill puts our reviewer in a grey daze

Where to start with the beauty of Endless Street?

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

Culinary Christmas secrets are shared

52 Remarkable retail Meat the family keeping Pritchetts Butchers a top joint!

55 Food news The Bridge Inn opening, a star baker and The Swan Enford

63 Business insider News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

8 12 74

Spotlight Scene Salisbury Lives

On the cover Biscuit treats from Juliet Stallwood.

Turn to page 40 for our larder choice

Give the perfect gift this Christmas Contemporary Original Art

01722 744844 sales@galeriedusine.co.uk 2b The Business Centre, Netherhampton, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 8PU

Tel: (01980) 629 438

events@choldertoncharliesfarm.com

Amesbury Road, Cholderton, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0EW

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

PHOTOS BY TOBY BENNETT

From left: Jason pictured behind Nigel during the shoot; despite no previous modelling experience, Nigel is a natural; the boat build manager is destined for a world of fame

MENSWEAR

MODEL BEHAVIOUR A chance meeting at a Christmas fair has lead to an operations and boat build manager becoming a model for Salisbury’s most stylish menswear shop and being contacted by a TV producer.

Nigel Card, who is a dad of two and lives in Marlborough, explains, “I went to the Early, Early Christmas Fair at Tedworth House at the end of September when Jason Regent and Jamie from Regent’s Tailoring approached me and suggested I could model some of their clothes. I went into shock – I’d just grown my beard and I’d sooner have expected to land the job of Father Christmas!”

Nigel agreed to do a shoot with the photographer Toby Bennett wearing Regent Tailoring clothes.

“Toby and Jason were brilliant at putting me at my ease and I even began to enjoy the process.”

Under Jason’s guidance, Nigel has set up an Instagram account, which became an instant success.

It caught the attention of a TV company who contacted Nigel.

He is currently sworn to secrecy about the outcome, but reveals, “Growing this beard has changed my life. I’m loving this new adventure – it has shown me that life’s path is never set in stone.”

For more: www.regenttailoring.co.uk

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

SPOTLIGHT

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

STREET LIGHTS! Cathedral archivist Emily Naish and John Glen MP examine a book from the collection

SALISBURY CATHEDRAL

DIGITAL CONTENT Thousands of rare books at Salisbury Cathedral library, which was built in 1445, are set to be catalogued thanks to £73,500 of National Lottery funding. The three-year project will create a searchable digital catalogue online of more than 10,000 books, some nearly 600 years old.

Emily Naish, the Salisbury Cathedral archivist, says, “This is a fantastic opportunity to really transform our knowledge of and access to the Cathedral’s library and archive collections. Up until now we have relied on an out-of-date catalogue compiled in 1880.”

John Glen, heritage minister and MP for Salisbury, adds, “This Heritage Lottery Fund grant will be used to open up a historically fascinating collection of books to a much wider audience.”

For more: www.hlf.org.uk

The countdown to Christmas started in Salisbury with Coronation Street star Antony Cotton switching on the lights, with the help of Father Christmas, and the Mayor of Salisbury, councillor John Lindley.

An estimated ten-thousand people gathered in the market square on 16 November to enjoy the street entertainers and the food and drink stalls before the big switch-on, followed by fireworks.

Antony, who plays the Weatherfield machinist and barman Sean Tully and is ambassador for the Manchester United Foundation, Veteran’s Garage, SSAFA and local Tidworth charity Help For Heroes, says, “I am so passionate about my military charities and I know how important the military community is to the city. It is an honour to have been asked.”

For more: www.salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk

Santa, Antony and the Mayor

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No 44

Adventures in party-going

Will Tattersall and Pippa Linford

CHRISTMAS SPREE

SCENE 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

Savvy Girling, Lisa Hogan and Cigdem Baker

Fisherton Mill, owned by Deborah Fox, opened their studios for Christmas evening drinks and nibbles on 10 November. Invited guests enjoyed live music and were given the opportunity to make an early start on their festive gift lists.

Photos by John Rose www.johnrosephotography.com

Deborah Fox, Chris and Cath Allen Heather Drage, Graham Addison and Cara Tyson

Jon and Alison Lamb

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

Teresa Jones and Marilyn Barter

Trudy Lloyd-William and Jane Corner

Peter Hill and Jane Podkolinski

SOCIETY

ART FORMS Directors of Galerie D’Usine invited friends, clients and guests to a champagne preview of their new winter exhibition Art In the Flesh on 10 November. The collection is a stunning body of artistic work celebrating the female form.

Sally Moulding and Robert Begg

Amanda Griffin and Tony Slade

Photos by John Rose www.johnrosephotography.com

Lesley Maynard and Jo Hayball

STAGE NAMES

James and Michael Lockwood

Redlynch Players, a drama group based in South Wiltshire, recently celebrated its 60-year anniversary with a party in their home of Redlynch Village Hall. The group has performed at least one production a year since 1957, with Thrush Green by Miss Read as this year’s performance.

Lloyd Perry and Ray Webb

Photos by John Rose www.johnrosephotography.com Di and Peter Bishop Luke Futcher, Manna McBride and Arther Willoughby

Donald and Caroline Anderson

Music/theatre/film/more

STAR QUALITY

David Spriggs, who was born in Manchester and now lives and works in Vancouver, is well-known for his large-scale installations through which he probes the symbolic, cultural and historical significance of light. His dazzling and enchanting Vision II, a 5 x 5 x 2 metre installation, can be seen until 4 February at Messums Wiltshire as part of their Material: Light exhibition.

For more: Messums Wiltshire; www.messumswiltshire.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 15

9 December – 9 January

Ella Louise Baldwin is one of the many talented artists belonging to the Salisbury Plain Arts, some of whom are exhibiting at the Christmas Big Bash on 14 December; the Shine collection at Fisherton Mill includes the stunning glasswork of Lucian Drane; kids can go exploring as part of a whole raft of seasonal activites at Moors Valley Country Park

Exhibitions U N TI L 2 3 D E C E M BE R

CELEBRATE: GATHERED AND GIFTED A hand-picked collection of contemporary work including ceramics, glass and textiles, ideal for unique gift-giving. 11am-2pm, entry. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk U N TI L 6 J ANUARY

THE CHARMED REALM Venture through the deep, magical forests of this exhibition by talented Paul Kidby to glimpse where ice dragons and unicorns dwell. The Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk U N TI L 6 J ANUARY

SHINE The Fisherton Mill exhibition

brings together the work of sculptors, ceramists, potters and artists including the striking work of Dan Bilton. Fisherton Mill; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

most enduringly popular fantasy worlds and characters. £7.50. Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

15 DEC EM B ER – 1 1 M ARCH UNTIL 7 J ANUAR Y

U N TI L 7 JA N UAR Y

A TRIBUTE TO THE RIVER TEST Pete Gilbert and Hugh Lohan have created an innovative exhibition celebrating the River Test by mixing paintings and photography. Rum’s Eg; www.hampshireartandcraft.org U N TI L 1 3 JA N UAR Y

TERRY PRATCHETT: HISWORLD Salisbury Museum, the estate of Sir Terry Pratchett and Paul Kidby present an exclusive and outstanding exhibition, giving a privileged insight into the man who created some of literature’s

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Gallery. Turn to page 15 for more.

Messums Wiltshire: www.messumswiltshire.com

WINTER EXHIBITION Salisbury Group of Artists will be holding their popular annual Winter Exhibition with original works on display, including local landscapes, with commission on all sales going to the ArtCare fund for the benefit of patients, staff and visitors. Salisbury District Hospital, Odstock Road; www.salisburygroupofartists.co.uk 9 DEC EMBER – 4 F EBR UAR Y

MATERIAL: LIGHT Continuing the materials-based theme, Material: Light will feature a light installation by David Spriggs, as well as an exhibition of contemporary glass in The Long

KÄTHE KOLLWITZ Käthe Kollwitz, who died in 1945, was notable for the emotional power of her drawing, printmaking and sculpture.

This exhibition celebrates the life and work of the refreshingly unpretentious leading German artist. Young Gallery; www. younggallerysalisbury.co.uk

Theatre/ Dance/Film UNTIL 7 J ANUARY

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK A fabulous cast including Richard Ede as the dame, Jemma Geanaus

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

as the fairy and Sam Harrison as Jack, tell the tale of the magic beans, a brave boy and an angry, hungry giant. Turn to page 20 for our behind-the-scenes panto special. Ticket prices start at £10.25. Salisbury Playhouse; www.salisburyplayhouse.com 15 DECEMBER

ANDREW WHITE This comedian, aged 18, is fast going up the ranks of the stand-up world. His 11-day Edinburgh Fringe run this year was listed as one of the top free events by the Daily Record. 7.30pm, £4. South Wilts Grammar School; www. standupandrew.com 1 9 – 2 3 D E C E M BE R

A CHRISTMAS CAROL The mystical Christmas fable is brought to life by Olivier awardwinner Guy Masterson who recreates Scrooge, Marley, and poor little Tiny Tim. £13.30. The Salberg, Salisbury Playhouse; www.salisburyplayhouse.com

Music 9 DECEMBER

2-TONE TRIBUTE TOUR Two acclaimed tribute bands Special Kinda Madness and The Special Brew, mix punk and Jamaican ska with classic sounds from The Specials, Madness, The Selector and Bad Manners. 7pm, £19.50. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

The Salisbury Cathedral Choir, four distinguished soloists, and the 40-strong community orchestra the City of London Sinfonia, perform Handel’s Messiah on 9 December at the Cathedral 1 5 D E CE MBER

STEELEYE SPAN Folk rock pioneers lead a line-up featuring old and new faces, after just releasing the critically acclaimed album Dodgy B******s.

The show promises new gems alongside classics including All Around My Hat. 7.30pm, £24.50. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

CITY OF LONDON SINFONIA The orchestra home to over 40 outstanding professionals, all committed to community events, returns to accompany the full Cathedral choir and four distinguished soloists in a performance of Handel’s Messiah.

7.30pm, £10. Salisbury Cathedral; www.salisburycathedral.org.uk 14 DECEMBER

SLADE Noddy might not be there any more but founder members Dave Hill and Don Powell still know how to party! Expect that Christmas song. Turn to page 18 for Dave’s 7 Deadly Sins interview.

8pm, £23.50. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

Family fun UNTIL 17 DEC EMBER

THE FARRANT SINGERS An evening of carols and Handel’s Hallelujah chorus, conducted by Andrew Mackay for a rousing Christmas concert. 7.30pm, £13. St. Martin’s Church; www.farrantsingers.org

THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE Each ground floor room will have a different theme, focusing on a different period of history and the characters who lived at Mompesson at that time.

There’s also a 1970s Christmas in the library to mark the 40th anniversary year of Salisbury’s 18th-century townhouse. £7.30/£3.65. Mompesson House; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

1 6 D E CE MBER

UNTIL 17 DEC EMBER

1 6 D E CE MBER 9 DECEMBER

Cancer Research UK. 2pm.

St Thomas’s Church; www.stthomassalisbury.co.uk

THAT’LL BE THE DAY The UK’s most popular rock ‘n‘ roll variety show celebrates the Christmas season with classic festive hits from the decades and great comedy sketches.

7.30pm, £24. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

HAWKS IN THE FOREST Each weekend Moors Valley Country Park and Forest are offering the opportunities to create fabulous family Christmas photographs. Turn to page 64 for more on Moors. 11am-4pm; £5 per family. www.moors-valley.co.uk

1 7 D E CE MBER

CAROL CONCERT The Shrewton Silver Band, The Amici Choir, Coombe Bassett Primary School and Woodford Ukulele Band are combining their musical talents to raise money for

UNTIL 7 J ANUAR Y

ICE RINK Along with carol services and a Christmas market at the Winchester Cathedral, visitors can enjoy all-weather ice-skating

thanks to the clear roof that offers wonderful views of the Cathedral in an incredible setting. Winchester Cathedral; www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk 9 & 15 DECEM B ER

SANTA AT CROSS KEYS Along with the late night shopping, festive face painting, and live music with local bands arranged by the indie record store Vinyl Collectors and Sellers, Cross Keys on Queen Street is playing host to the big man himself. Cross Keys Arcade; www.crosskeysshopping.co.uk 11 – 31 DECEM B ER

LITTLE ROBIN REDBREAST To help little Robin count down the days, Mummy and Daddy Robin have given him an advent calendar, and behind every window is a picture, and every picture tells a musical story. £9.

The Salberg, Salisbury Playhouse; www.salisburyplayhouse.com 19 – 23 DECEM B ER

A CHRISTMAS CAROL The tale of Bob Cratchett, Tiny Tim and those know-it all spirits as told by the award-winning puppetry and visual theatre company Smoking Apples. £10. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk w

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ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

-

SEVEN DEADLY SINS

Celebrate: Gathered and Gifted is on at Salisbury Arts Centre until 23 December

www.stthomassalisbury.co.uk 20 D E C E M B E R – 3 JA N UA RY

LITTLE LOST ANGEL Join the children’s Christmas trail around Salisbury Cathedral.

There are also creativity workshops with crafts and storytelling.

Salisbury Cathedral; www.salisburycathedral.org.uk 26 D E C E M B E R – 1 JA N UA RY

FAMILY FESTIVE QUIZ TRAIL A self-led trail around Moors Valley with activities for everyone including trivia questions for the grown-ups.

Trail cards are available from the Visitor Centre, 10.30am-3pm, £1. www.moors-valley.co.uk

Other

U N TI L 2 2 D E CEMBER

SALISBURY CHRISTMAS MARKET For the sixth consecutive year, a winter wonderland of shopping chalets arrive outside the Guildhall Square to bring us everything from little gifts, seasonal liqueurs and lantern parades. Turn to page 63 for our market business story. www. salisburychristmasmarket.co.uk 9 D E CE MBE R

TIZ THE SEASON 40 food and craft stalls, selling locally sourced produce with Santa calling in, carols sung and a mince pie eating contest, with monies raised donated to the Macmillan Cancer Trust. 12pm-5pm. Tisbury High Street; www.tisbury.co.uk

U N TI L 1 0 D E C E M BE R

DECORATED TREE FESTIVAL See over 100 decorated trees along with captivating nativity scenes on display, all provided by organisations in South Wiltshire to raise money for nominated charities.

Free. St Thomas Church;

1 4 D E CE MBE R

PLAIN ARTS CHRISTMAS BIG BASH Mini stalls with lots of Salisbury Plain Arts artists, who include talent such as Ella Louise Baldwin and Martin Wright, selling their work. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.plainartssalisbury.co.uk

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

DAVE HILL Dave Hill (third left) helped found the English glam rock group Slade in 1969. They went on to achieve 23 top-20 singles. Their best-selling single Merry Xmas Everybody has sold in excess of one million copies LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after?

A little rest – the last two weeks have been very busy promoting my new autobiography So Here It is. It is about how a boy from Wolverhampton rocked the world with a band called Slade.

GREED: What should you really be cutting down on?

Sweet treats, especially apple strudel and custard. I always look for that on the menu when I’m in a coffee shop.

GLUTTONY: What one thing would you happily eat or drink until you burst?

I have five grandkids and love sharing sweets like Smarties, Love Hearts and sherbet dips.

SLOTH: What should you be putting your back into?

Tidying out the loft. It’s packed with at least 50 years’ worth of stage clothes!

WRATH: What makes you angry?

Potholes! They have caused a lot of damage to my car.

ENVY: Who are you jealous of?

I’m not, I’m very happy in my own skin.

PRIDE: What, to date, has been your proudest achievement?: Leaving my first-ever job and having the courage to become who I wanted to be, and go play guitar. And to still be doing that.

For more: Slade are playing Salisbury City Hall on 14 December; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

The Bay Window GIFT SHOP, CLOTHING & INTERIORS Just a little bit of everything in the heart of Wilton

Gorgeous Christmas gifts and decorations now in stock. Local suppliers include Claire Dimitri glass design, Burghley bags, Brakeburn ladies and menswear, Glover & Smith and many more.

Opening Times: Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm | Saturday 9.30am - 5pm | Sunday CLOSED 17 North St, Wilton. SP2 0HA • Tel 01722 741287 • www.thebaywindowgiftshop.co.uk

eardleyart CREATIVE CONTEMPORARY COLLECTIONS

Courtyard Studio 3, Wilton Shopping Village, SP2 0RS www.eardleyart.co.uk

ARTS

A LOOK AT THE M A K ING OF THE SA L ISBURY PA N TO

OH YES IT IS! LUCY ROUSE goes (it’s) behind (you!) the scenes at Salisbury Playhouse to meet the cast and crew responsible for this year’s panto Photo s by JOH N ROSE

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t’s that time of year when we can rejoice in a world of panto dames, corny jokes and audience participation. But is it all knickerbockers and Tinkerbells? Here we meet those responsible for bringing the magic of Jack and The Beanstalk to the Salisbury stage.

Ryan McBryde

DIRECTOR How many times have you worked on panto?

This is my third. I’m thinking of it as a trilogy. In the theatre world Cinderella, Aladdin and Jack are the big three.

When did you start work on this year’s production?

My work starts in January with Andrew, the writer, to develop and hone the story. Once the script is ready I work on defining the set and costume with James, the

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designer. Then in June come auditions with the casting director, Ellie, musical director, Chris, and choreographer, Nicky. The set is built in August by the crew at Salisbury Playhouse and rehearsals start in November where all of the above elements come together for our December première.

How would you describe pantomime?

People don’t go to pantomime for thought-provoking theatre. Panto is fairy tale, a musical, a party, a riot.

How does your own Christmas fit in with panto season?

I get the best of both worlds.

I get to experience the Salisbury Christmas Markets and the stunning Cathedral Festival of Light but once the show is open on 6 December, I return to London to spend Crimbo with my family. This year’s particularly special because we’ll be celebrating Christmas in Thailand.

Tim Reed

Head of workshop How many times have you worked on panto?

The first job I ever did here at the Playhouse was a pantomime and this year will be my 16th panto, and this is the fourth time I will have done Jack and the Beanstalk.

What are the responsibilities for a head of a workshop?

I am responsible for costing up the set and working out how it will be built and how long it will take.

Once the set design is finalised, I then manage the workshop team as they construct the set, as well as building scenery myself.

When does the work start?

As a workshop team we look at set designs as early as March and often start building some of the set during the summer. We will then store the built scenery until it goes on stage in November.

The rest of the set is then built in the weeks leading up to the opening.

How does your own Christmas fit in with panto season?

Christmas for me always feels like it is starting in November when we fit up the panto set on stage.

Since first building panto sets here in Salisbury I now have a family of my own who are of an age to enjoy the shows. I certainly feel under the scrutiny of my 7-year-old daughter to make sure it is all done to the highest possible standards! ď ˇ

The audience are literally the extra members of the cast

ARTS Richard Ede

ACTOR IN THE ROLE OF DAME DOTTY How many times have you worked on panto?

My first panto The Wizard of Oz, in which I played the Tinman in 1998 (I’m suddenly feeling very old) at Epsom Playhouse. I had great fun and enjoyed the camaraderie and controlled lunacy that panto allows! Since then I’ve been goodies, baddies, comics and – for the first time last year at Salisbury – the dame.

What makes a great panto dame?

Playing the dame means that you have to carefully gauge the line between playing the slightly silly mum character that the children can warm to, but also being one of the main sources of entertainment for the adults, with some subtle jokes.

What do you love about panto?

Panto brings so much tradition with it, that it definitely becomes its own beast when the curtain goes up. People are expecting certain elements to be present, and the audience are literally the extra members of the cast – they’ve even learned their lines! It is exactly that interaction that gives panto its special edge.

How does your own Christmas schedule fit in with panto season?

It’s not easy, I won’t lie. The show becomes somewhat all-consuming as we put an enormous amount of energy into our roles. We have shows on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day so it’s very tricky.

John Titcombe

HEAD OF PRODUCTION How many times have you worked on panto?

This is my 12th pantomime but only my second Jack and The Beanstalk. I’m quite lucky being based at the Playhouse, I only have to work on one pantomime a year. Some freelance production managers work on five or six.

Describe your input into this year’s panto I work closely with the director and designers ensuring that as many of their ideas can be realised safely and within budget.

What makes panto so special?

For many families it’s the only time they will go to the theatre together, so it’s important to put on a spectacular show. Our pantomime has a great reputation and expectations are high so we have to keep raising the bar.

How does your own Christmas fit in with panto season?

Once the show is open I can hand the running of it over to our stage-management and technical teams, so by Christmas time, I’ll be starting work on our February production.

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Jemma Geanaus

Actress in the role of Fortuna the Fairy How many times have you worked on panto?

This year will be my first traditional pantomime, so I’m looking forward to being on stage in a different way.

How do you see your role?

As the fairy of this piece I’m going to bring the glitter, laughter, Christmas cheer and I’m heading for full audience participation! My wish is that everyone has a wonderful time.

What makes panto so magical?

Pantos are legacy shows in my eyes. Whole families can come and enjoy theatre together. For some, that might be their first trip to the theatre. They will each walk away with something special from the show. It happens once a year and so it is enchanting.

Are you looking forward to Christmas itself?

I get to make a new family with my cast members this Christmas. I have a feeling this will be one I’ll never forget. 

I’m going to bring the

glitter, laughter, and Christmas cheer

ARTS

James Button

PRODUCTION DESIGNER How would you describe your job with the panto?

I am the production designer. This means I am responsible for the look of the entire show: set, costume and props. This is the first panto that I have fully designed. I started my career assisting a designer who mainly did panto and over the six years working with them learnt many tricks that I can now apply, but using my own style.

What is the difference between working on panto and working on other productions throughout the year?

The main difference is time. I started work on Jack and the Beanstalk in January so it’s pretty much a year’s worth of work tucked in between my other productions. The obvious other difference is the palette of colour; it’s a real chance to bring a rainbow explosion together that I am unlikely to use on any other show around the year.

What are your own panto memories?

My introduction to theatre was when my parents took me as a child and it was always one of the year’s highlights. It also meant Christmas was around the corner, so there is a real feeling of nostalgia now.

Andrew Pollard

WRITER How many times have you worked on panto?

I’ve appeared in around 20 pantos and written over 30.

Describe your input into this year’s panto.

As the writer, I work with the director, the designer and the musical director to produce the best panto we can for Salisbury.

Do you have any other jobs?

In my other life I’m a jobbing actor but I have a fantastic sideline in writing professional pantos, which I take very seriously. Pantos are part of people’s Christmas festivities and you have to get it right. For some, a bad panto means a spoiled Christmas.

What makes panto so special?

It is uniquely British and draws on every kind of theatrical genre. There is nothing else like it in the world. It is also truly a family show – and as a result it must cater for all ages.

How do you usually spend Christmas?

Usually I am playing dame in panto in London – so only one day off: Christmas Day. As I live in Manchester, I don’t get to go home, so often spend it with friends. I have also spent a couple of Christmases on my own – but I have actually enjoyed it. Feet up, champagne open, delicious food by my side and full control of the remote!

For more: Jack and the Beanstalk is in the Main House at Salisbury Playhouse from Saturday 2 December to Sunday 7 January 2018.

For tickets call 01722 320 333 or visit www.salisburyplayhouse.com 24 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

LITTLE PICK ME UPS Check out our selection of locally sourced, indie gifts for last-minute inspiration, and gorgeous little stocking fillers

FULL HOUSE Santa¹s house, £32 Kid’s play the sustainable way From Goodfayre; www.goodfayre.co.uk

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

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

TO A TEE Blood Sweat & Gears Tee, £21.99 Tour de Salisbury in a Brakeburn classic From The Bay Window Gift Shop; www.thebaywindowgiftshop.co.uk

IN THE FRAME Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Camera, £69 So retro, they’re instantly right now From Castle Cameras; www.castlecameras.co.uk

SAY CHEESE Small British cheese box, £19.95 “Cheese Gromit! Cracking cheese!!”

From Riverford; www.riverford.co.uk

HAVING A BALL Aromatherapy bauble balms, £14.95 Perfect to de-stress when you get to post Christmas From Vita Skin Spa; www.vitaskinspa.co.uk

THE HARD SHELL Set of 4 egg cups, £24 Just in time for Easter From Knighton Mill Pottery; www.knightonmillpottery.com

IN A LATHER Shower gel, £4.99 Men like to wash this way From Well Natural; www.wellnatural.co.uk

IT’S A WRAP Cashmere and silk pashmina, £69.95 So fine, it’s not just for Christmas From Twenty One B; www.twentyonebsalisbury.co.uk IT’S A DATE International Cat Care calendar, £7.50 Pin-ups for a good claws From International Cat Care; www.icatcare.org

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

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

SOAP STAR Bubble gun, £5.95 The words every parent loves, ‘no batteries required’ From Cranborne Garden Centre; www.cranbornegardencentre.co.uk

MAKE A NOTE Duckling notebook, £3.50 Handy for next year’s nice-and-naughty list From No44 Homeworks; www.no44homeworks.co.uk

HEAD LINES Skull cufflinks, £150 Stay ahead of the style game From Allum & Sidaway.co.uk; www.allumandsidaway.co.uk

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

SWEET LIKE CHOCOLATE Handmade speciality chocs, from 85p Buy late otherwise you will eat them all From Robert Lewis Chocolates; tel: 01722 237251

MAKE A MARK Pencil set, £5.20 To aid procrastination and writer’s block From Fisherton Mill; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

SURE FOOTING Hazel alpaca and merino wool socks, £24 Soft socks in your stocking = festive bliss From Flock by nature; www.flockbynature.co.uk

TOTES-GORGE! O bag with faux fur trim, from £38 Changeable bags with the OMG factor From Conker; www.conkerclothing.net

OLD FLAMES Ceramic heart candles, £2.99 Lovely little fragranced pots of fire From Casawara; www.casawara.com

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE JUST THE TICKET We can vouch that just sometimes vouchers really are the perfect gift

WING AND A PREY Half day adventure, £72pp Watch the birdies From Forest Falconry; www. forestfalconry.com PRIME INSECT Bugs in resin, from £8 Up the ante with this clever gift From Digger & Mojo; www.diggerandmojo.com

GOLD RUSH Small decorative pineapple, £15 Definitely one of our five a day From Orchid Furniture; www.orchidfurniture.co.uk

GO BY TUBE Choose your own voucher price Help budding Van Goghs give it a go From Noble Art Supplies; 01722 239517

COASTING ALONG Salisbury coaster, £2.50 Use for Santa’s milk or mulled wine From Salisbury Information Centre; tel: 01722 342860

BEE BEE KING Enamelled sterling silver bee keyring, £205 This bee-auty has won the key to our hearts From Tribbecks & Son; www.tribbecks.com

THINK INK Choose your own voucher price Contribute to their tattoo collection From The Sharp Practice; www.sharppracticetattoo.co.uk

HIP HAPPENING Flask in dogstooth tweed, £49 Fill with sloe gin and sip slowly From Regent; www.regenttailoring.co.uk

ROCKING ROBIN Emma Bridgewater mug, £12.95 Dinky enough for toddies or toddlers From Casa Fina; www.casafinasalisbury.co.uk

DRIVING SEAT Four-hour lesson, starts at £90 Get into top gear mode with extra lessons From Drive Tech; www.drivetech.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 29

Light My Space

GREAT LIGHTING DESIGN

FROM IDEA TO INSTALLATION • enhance your interior design • accentuate architectural features • unusual and spectacular lighting • layered lighting & personal control • design service at a time to suit you

talk to us... because there’s more to light

www.lightmyspace.co.uk

hello@lightmyspace.co.uk

01980 555 493

DESIGN ADVICE - PROJECT PLANNING - ARTISAN, MAKER AND PRODUCT SOURCING - CUSTOM DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION

Kate Good Pottery Presents for all occasions Fine household and decorative stoneware pottery Commissions and original designs undertaken Commemorative items a speciality Bantam and goose egg cups available

SHOWROOM OPEN • ALL VISITORS WELCOME

Kate Good Pottery High Street, Tisbury SP3 6HD • Tel: 01747 870367

F E AT U R E

INTERIORS SPECIAL

DECK the HALLS Holly, pinecones or mistletoe?

JOHN MATHER asks just how we get florally festive

ADD A CHRISTMAS DOOR WREATH FOR A GREAT FESTIVE FIRST IMPRESSION 32 LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 42 II SALISBURY CLIFTON LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS “I prefer lovely alternatives such as burgundy amaryllis or hellebores. I also love white flowers at this time of year with some very rustic, foraged foliage, very traditional but classic.”

However Claire is a fan of the traditional seasonal colour scheme: “You can’t go wrong with deep reds and greens, but just throw in a touch of white and silver – I believe there are no rules.”

3

D

eck the hall with boughs of holly”, trills the Christmas song, but just how are we supposed to do that? Once the poinsettia is placed in the middle of the table and mistletoe hung over the door frame, where do we go from there? We turned to some of the region’s floral experts for their happy holidays horticultural advice…

1

Aside from the aforementioned holly, mistletoe and poinsettia, what should I look out for?

The garden is a great place to start, according to Claire Whitehead, owner of Cranborne Garden Centre: “If you walk around your garden at this time of year, you’ll find a wealth of inspiration, alongside the good old favourites – holly, ivy, any evergreen shrubs with berries, and hydrangea seedheads. All of this looks incredible dusted gold, silver or white.”

Heather Jackson of Gullicks Florists says: “The choice ranges from velvet red roses, rich skimmia and scented blue spruce through to elegant amaryllis with its bold red trumpetshaped blooms and traditional ilex berries.”

Pod & Pip’s founder, Sarah Williamson Jones, adds: “You can’t go wrong, for example, using ivy, with its beautiful black berries, in your flower arrangements, wreaths and garlands, picked from your garden or hedgerows.”

2

Should I step away from the red and the green?

Heather thinks so, and suggests: “Copper, silver and white tones offer a more modern look for a Christmas floral display. We like to couple this with burgundys, golds and deep greens in our displays. They all look fantastic by candlelight.”

Sarah avoids the traditional red, saying,

Opposite: Cranborne supplies seasonal wreaths; This page, top to bottom: Heather from Gullicks suggests a candle and floral centrepiece; Sarah uses a vintage table theme; the use of red berries is always striking like this Pod & Pip festive arrangement

Where are floral displays best placed for maximum impact?

The front door is a favourite place for all our experts. Sarah says: “The must-have for the decorations is a real wow Christmas door wreath for a great festive first impression.” Heather also likes the traditional fireplace, and suggests using, “blue spruce garlands with chunky white candles, cinnamon sticks and pinecones.”

Another popular focal point is the Christmas dinner table: “This is the heart of the home where everyone enjoys good company and food all together”, says Heather. “A beautiful candle centrepiece completes the table and brings a warm glow to the festivities.”

Sarah suggests incorporating a vintage theme in your table setting: “Gold crockery and a white table runner against silver fir, green ivy and pink peppercorns look amazing.”

4

Is there any place for old-fashioned tinsel in any of this?

“Everyone loves a bit of sparkle and glitter at Christmas!” says Heather. “Here at Gullicks we incorporate beautiful baubles, sparkling branches and glittery leaves into our designs.

The effect is stunning. Claire agrees: “Mixing real foliage and flowers with baubles, lights and other faux decorations works really well, as long as you keep to a natural colour palette. Place a couple of standard bay trees outside your front door and then add some LED lights for a real festive welcome.”

5

If I’m thinking long term, how can I prepare florally for next year?

Claire advises: “To make sure you’re ahead of the game next Christmas, and for years to come, consider planting shrubs to provide foliage and interest for your festive decorations. We recommend viburnum tinus to provide snowy white winter blooms, skimmia japonica fragrans which is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with brilliant red berries and ilex x altaclerensis for its striking green and gold foliage.”

For more festive floral advice, arrangements and products, you can contact the featured experts below: Cranborne Garden Centre, Cranborne, Dorset. tel: 01725 517248; www.cranbornegardencentre.co.uk Gullicks, 109 Fisherton St, Salisbury. tel: 01722 336575; www.gullicksflorists.co.uk Pod & Pip, Ebble House, Stratford Tony, Salisbury; www.podandpip.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 33

Flowers and Flower Workshops

Wedding Flowers, Bouquets and Flower Workshops running throughout the year Quote Salisbury Life to get a 10% workshop discount when booking

The Little Flower Shop Florist High street, Amesbury, Sp4 7dl thelittleflowershopamesbury@gmail.com 01980 625458

www.thelittleflowershop.website Email: sarah@podandpip.co.uk | www.podandpip.co.uk

BESPOKE CHRISTMAS ARRANGEMENTS, DOOR WREATHS & UNIQUE GIFTS

01722 336575 • www.gullicksflorists.co.uk

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

SALE SUCCESS! Designers Kate and Hania from at.twenty.one.interiors share news about selling their stunning ex-display kitchens

A

t.twenty.one Interiors ex-display sale has been a huge success so far. Three displays have already been sold, and they still have a few more beautiful kitchen displays left to sell ready for the arrival of their new showroom displays in 2018!

Their fantastic window display (top right) has only been on exhibition in the at.twenty.one Interiors showroom for a little over a year. The retail value of this kitchen is £36,308 however you could snap this up for a fraction of the cost at £18,000 including six Miele appliances, worktops, units and cabinet lighting. The worktop on this kitchen is Corian's Raincloud with integrated Coran sink with stainless steel base drainer grooves, hob bars and a wireless charger.

Their second display on sale is the Cashmere run (bottom right) with a retail value of £15,785, however, we are now selling it for £9,500! It is

perfect if you are planning your space with a kitchen island and you love your coffee!

Offers will be considered so, for more information on our displays pop into our showroom for a browse and a chat! SL

Kate Stacey and Hania Southwell 21 Catherine Street Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2DF 01722 238177 kate@attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk hania@attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk www.attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk

Dinghams Stoves & Chimneys Est. 1982

There are over 70 fireplaces, woodburning stoves and multi-fuel stoves on display in our main showroom in Salisbury.

We have 15 fireplaces in our Winchester showroom.

Most fireplaces can be manufactured and installed to suit the customer’s requirements. We sell a wide range of stone fireplaces, woodburners, gas fires, gas stoves and electric fires.

The Salisbury 5 Series

Salisbury

18-20 Newton Road, Churchfields Industrial Estate, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7QA 01722 506040 / 01722 506041

Winchester

4 The Square, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9ES 01962 863333

Gazco’s Reflex 75T

Contura 610 Style

dinghamsfires@gmail.com

www.dinghams.co.uk

RECIPES

FOOD

THE SAUSAGE & MASH COMPANY The Sausage & Mash Company was created in 2011 by Tom Kinderman and, along with the aforementioned dish, it also serves up pies, home-made canapés, starters and desserts. With the aid of a truck called Gumdrop, the Wiltshire-based catering firm travels to festivals, weddings, corporate events and film sets

BLACK FOREST SUNDAES WITH BROWNIES (Serves 4) Tom says, “These two recipes are included in our menu as they form part of a pyramid stack of freshly made desserts that complement any occasion.

I’ve chosen these because, even though they are all-year-round winners, they work brilliantly this time of year for Christmas parties. Guests can either help themselves to the desserts in shot glasses or they can be served at the table.”

Ingredients Cherry Sauce 200g canned cherries 2 tbsp kirsch or brandy Brownies 200g butter 175g dark brown sugar 140g granulated sugar 4 eggs, beaten

50g ground almonds 50g plain flour 200g dark chocolate To serve 148ml double cream 2 tsp icing sugar 2 brownie squares 4 sundae glasses chocolate ice cream

1. To make the sauce, drain the cherries, reserving the liquid and then set aside. Place the liquid in a pan with the kirsch or brandy and simmer for 5 mins or until syrupy. Return the cherries to the pan and heat through.

2. To make the brownies, heat the oven to 180°C (fan) or 160°C (gas 4). Grease and line a 20cm square brownie tin.

3. Heat the butter and chocolate in a pan until melted together. Stir through the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Leave to cool for 5 mins, then mix through the eggs.

Stir in the almonds and flour. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 30–35 mins until just cooked through. When cool, cut into bite-sized pieces.

4. To assemble, whip the cream with the icing sugar until it forms soft peaks. Place a handful of brownie chunks in the bottom of the sundae glasses. Place a scoop of the ice cream on top, then drizzle over the cherries and sauce. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with grated chocolate. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 37

FOOD

RECIPES

RASPBERRY CREAM TRIFLE IN A GLASS (Serves 6) Ingredients For the trifle 100g golden caster sugar 100g butter 2 eggs beaten 100g self-raising flour For the custard 7 egg yolks 25g golden caster sugar 600ml full fat milk 1 vanilla pod, split lengthways For the topping 4 tbsp raspberry conserve 250g raspberries 150ml sherry 2 tbsp brandy

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

568ml double cream 25g flaked almonds.

1. Preheat the oven to 190ÂşC or Gas 5.

Grease and line the base of a 20cm round tin with greaseproof paper. Beat the sugar with the butter in a bowl until fluffy. Beat the eggs in slowly to the mix. Fold in the flour with a spoon.

2. Spoon the mixture into the tin and bake for 20 mins until risen and firm. Place the tin on a wire rack, peel off the greaseproof paper and cool.

3. To make the custard: beat the yolks and stir in the sugar. Pour the milk into a pan.

Scrape the vanilla seeds into the milk and heat the milk. Stir in the yolks and then pour into a non-stick pan. Cook on a low

heat for 7 mins, stirring until it thickens.

Don’t let the mixture get too hot as it will curdle. Transfer to a bowl for 15 mins.

4. Split the cake in half and spread with the raspberry conserve. Sandwich the cake back together and cut it into 5cm pieces.

Arrange the pieces into the glass bases and layer with raspberries. Mix the sherry and brandy and pour over the cake.

5. Pour the custard over the top of the cake and then leave it to chill for 2 hours.

Whip the cream and spoon over the trifle.

Scatter with almonds before serving with the whole raspberries.

www.thesausageandmashcompany.co.uk

CHRISTMAS AT

THE OX ROW INN CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU

2 COURSES £25.95 | 3 COURSES £28.95 PER PERSON

CHRISTMAS DAY MENU £70.00 PER PERSON

@FULLERSKITCHEN WE TAKE CHRISTMAS PERSONALLY 10-11 Ox Row, Salisbury SP1 1EU OxRowInn.Salisbury@fullers.co.uk 01722 349033 | www.theoxrowinn.co.uk

1

2

JOY FULL!

3

IT’S GOODWILL TO ALL MEN AND UNEXPECTED NEIGHBOURS WHEN YOU’VE GOT A LARDER FULL OF LOCALLY-SOURCED GOODIES TO SHARE

4

5

1. SO CULTURED

2. AS KEEN AS

3. JUST THE TONIC

4. IN A PICKLE

5. FEAST YOUR EYES

Lyburn Farmhouse extra mature cheese, approx. £6.40 for 250g Has been matured for 18 months and will be demolished in seconds.

From Lyburn Farmhouse Cheesemakers, Landford, Wiltshire. tel: 01794 399982; www.lyburncheese.co.uk

British beer mustard, £2.25 Made with a malty Wiltshire beer, it does great things for slabs of ham, pork pies, cheese and turkey.

From Pritchetts Butchers, 5 Fish Row, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324346

Spire Gin, £34.95 Producer Kate Griffin is supporting the Salisbury based charity Spires Smiles by donating £1 per bottle sold. Make ours a double then please.

From Spire Gin tel: 01264 710768; www.spiregin.co.uk

Christmas chutney, £3.90 Spiced apricots and colourful cranberries combine beautifully in this Hawkshead Relish. Perfect for leftovers.

From Goodfayre, Crosskeys, 17 Queen St, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324235; www.goodfayre.co.uk

Viennese mince pies, £3.75 for six Impress your Yuletide guests with a twist on the traditional. For the grownups, serve with Baileys.

From Reeve the Baker, 2 Butcher Row Salisbury. tel: 01722 320 367; www.reevethebaker.co.uk

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

6 CHRISTMAS LARDER

SHOPPING

7

10

8

9

6. TAKES THE BISCUIT

7. BERRY NICE

8. SPREAD THE JOY

9. SWEET HEARTS

10. BOLLY HOLIDAYS

Juliet Stallwood biscuits, from £2.95 Hang these cover stars from the tree or stuff them in your mouth – the choice is yours. Or do both.

From Juliet Stallwood, Chaldicott Barns, Semley Shaftesbury, Dorset. tel: 07515 882030; www.julietstallwood.co.uk

Purbeck blackcurrant sorbet, £16 for 2 litres Made with local spring water and lovingly squished tart blackcurrants.

From Purbeck, Lower Scoles Farm, Kingston, Wareham, Dorset. tel: 01929 480090; www. purbeckicecream.co.uk

Brandy butter, £3.45 Top mince pies, fruit puddings, anything you fancy with this rich, creamy and organic butter, because cows deserve a Christmas too.

From Riverford; tel: 01803 227227; www.riverford.co.uk

Chocolates, £2.50 for three Expect the unexpected guests If word gets out you’ve got Alexander Chocolate in your house.

From Alexander Chocolate tel: 07510 156 304; www. alexanderchocolate.co.uk

Champagne, £44.99 The Salisbury wine merchants describe this as, ‘Muscular, blond, featured in 007 films.

Just like Daniel Craig.’ We’re in.

From Cambridge Wine Merchants Salisbury, 5 Winchester Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324486; www.cambridgewine.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE II 41 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON LIFE 69

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

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

Exciting mix of Indian Street Food and Craft Beer

90 Crane Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2QD

01722 329700

cafediwali.com

Monty & Mabel’s Wiltshire’s most Doggie friendly destination.

Delicious breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes and coffees Doggies have their own menu too!

Fabulous local walks we can direct you to….make a day of it!

9 North St, Wilton, Salisbury SP2 0HA 01722 741444 www.montyandmabels.co.uk

Knighton Mill Pottery Traditional handcrafted ceramics Producing high ďŹ red pottery for everyday use.

Natural beauty from clay, heat & salt.

01722 780128 | ofďŹ ce@knightonmillpottery.com www.knightonmillpottery.com

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Grillado Comedy writer DANIEL PAGE misunderstands his brief to go a few rounds with some knockout food at the Salisbury Italian restaurant.

However he does find the experience a heavyweight hit!

F

lanked by my wife and sons, and with a sense of nervous excitement, we enter the chic-looking venue. As we take in the tasteful décor and contemporary setting – the hallmark of modern sport – one of three smartly dressed referees greets us and shows us to our ring... suspiciously shaped like a table and surrounded by chairs.

I sit confused, wearing knee-high socks and an oversized mouthguard, as I become aware of romantic Italian pop caressing my ears. Then it hits me (not literally of course, although arguably that may have been appropriate)...this is all one big boxing allegory and in reality I am doing a restaurant review. It all makes sense – these aren’t referees, but waiters. This isn’t a boxing ring, but a crucible of fine food…and there is no way I could hold my fork in these gloves.

Yet as I enjoy the crisp artwork and festive lights, I realise I am about to go the distance with some serious-sounding food.

DING DING! Round 1 sees me face up fried croquettes with spiced beef and corn-fed chicken served with sauce and gently toasted foccacia, whilst my wife takes on squid with feta cheese and spicy Italian chorizo. Instantly they are upon us. The squid offers a flurry of strong flavours, balanced nicely by a light and fluffy couscous, whilst the croquettes jab my tastebuds with their rich filling, lovingly supported by the delicious harissa and paprika and garlic aioli sauces.

THE TANG OF PERFECTLY COOKED

SEA BASS TANG YIELDING QUICKLY TO THE SALTY, CRISPY PARMA HAM

Well presented and big on flavour, they are, however, no match for our forkwork and we soon sent them reeling to the floor...of our satisfied tummies. I lean in close to hear the thoughts of my trainer, aka six-year old son. “Wow that is a very, very strong flavour.” There’s a reason he’s the best in the business.

After being massaged back into shape by a powerful yet complex glass of Chianti we are ready for Round 2.

This time we square off against a pair of heavy hitters in the form of pan-seared sea bass fillets wrapped in Parma ham and an Aberdeen Angus sirloin steak with champagne cheese fondue, accompanied by mashed potatoes and crisp vegetables.

The dishes don’t mess about. Each ingredient screams for attention as we are taken on a journey of flavour on our plates. The tang of perfectly cooked sea bass yields quickly to the salty, crispy Parma ham, which adds both texture and punch, whilst the juicy sirloin dances in a sea of Parmesan, salty mash and crisp vegetables. There’s no avoiding the big flavours being dealt out by a talented culinary team.

After a short pause whilst we hose ourselves down with mineral water and steady ourselves for the final round of the evening...dessert.

Still a little dazed from our main, we find ourselves taking on a cylinder-shaped chocolate and biscuit cake, which has teamed up with a delectable pistachio and ricotta cannoli, accompanied by a scoop of mango sorbet.

We proceed to round on the cannoli, resorting to biting in order to take it down, piece by piece, until it is nothing more than a mess of crumbs and cream.

Exhausted but satisfied we withdraw home to contemplate the essential truth we had learned that evening – if you want a boxing match, head to Wembley; if you want big flavours, head to Grillado.

DINING DETAILS Grillado, 68 Castle Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324350; www.grillado.co.uk Prices Starters cost between £6.50-£8.75, mains, £11.70-£28.85 and desserts £4.50-£6.20 Vegetarian choice Plenty of options Specialities Rotisserie How many covers 55 Service/atmosphere A big hit for all the family

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 45

La fosse

The

Sausage & Mash Company

Festive Season at La Fosse

Whether you are joining us for a work Christmas Party, catching up with friends over a couple of festive cocktails in the lounge by the log fire, or a delicious family dinner, our friendly team will make you feel totally welcomed and relaxed. (up to 24 guests)

£31 Thre .95 e cou r £27.0 ses 0 Two cours es

From weddings to private parties and corporate events, The Sausage and Mash Company brings taste and style together. hello@thesausageandmashcompany.co.uk thesausageandmashcompany.co.uk

f

Berwick Farm Shop Berwick St James • SP3 4UA Telephone 01722 790490

Pritchetts of Salisbury The local name you can trust Pritchett’s Butchers are a family run business, of three generations, that have been serving the people of Salisbury the highest quality meat for over 150 years.

• Locally sourced meat • Handmade Sausages, Burgers and Faggots (now gluten free).

Fresh local produce and good home cooked food.

Our own home-reared beef and pork, local reared lamb, free range chicken and duck.

HOMEMADE Marilyn’s well known steak pies, pasties and cakes.

Also a nice choice of chutneys and jams.

OPENING TIMES

Monday - Closed Tuesday - Wednesday - 10am to 5pm Thursday to Friday - 10am to 6pm Saturday- 9am to 4pm Sunday - 10am to 2pm

• We provide hog roast hire for any occasion and have been doing so for nearly 20 years- making us one of the most experienced in the area.

Meat hampers £20 couples hamper £30 family weekly hamper £50 family monthly hamper Special festive Christmas Hamper

You can find us behind the Guild Hall in Salisbury, or at Salisbury & Wilton Markets.

Tel: 01722 324346

F E AT U R E

EAT, CHEAT CHEF, REPEAT! INTERIORS SPECIAL

Three local chefs talk personal favourite festive eats, reveal their top Yuletide cooking tips, their cook-to carols and discuss how to use up those leftovers on Boxing Day

By SA R A H MOOL L A

ANY MEAT LEFTOVERS MAKE WONDERFUL WINTER PIES

48 LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 42 II SALISBURY CLIFTON LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

CHEFS’ TIPS

TYLER BARNES Head chef at The Grosvenor Arms, Shaftesbury

What are your time-saving cooking tips for Christmas dinner?

You want to spend as much time as possible with your family on Christmas Day, so always prepare your veg the day before. Potatoes, carrots, peas, carrot and swede mash, and brussels sprouts can all be prepped, so can the red cabbage, which is lovely braised in red wine with a cinnamon stick, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, currants and diced apricots.

Do you have a favourite part of the main-day meal?

I am big fan of pigs in blankets but it’s a tough choice because I’ve got to admit I also love a fluffy inside and crispy outside roast potato cooked in goose fat.

FOOD

What’s the best Christmas song to cook to?

To be honest I don’t have a favourite Christmas carol or song. I’m a big UB40 fan and that’s what will be blasting out very loudly in my kitchen.

Any suggestions for leftovers?

I’m a traditionalist with the Christmas Day leftovers. Bubble and squeak with the leftover veg. And with the meat, a good turkey pie or my very favourite, a spicy curry. It’s always a winner.

Any Christmas kitchen wish?

A Classic KitchenAid for my home kitchen. I’ve got a 10-month old son and I’m very excited about baking with him and rustling up some cupcakes and biscuits. The KitchenAid means cakemaking’s a breeze. They take some beating! They’re built to last, so I’ll be able to hand it on to him. www.grosvenorarms.co.uk

MARK HARTSTONE Chef and owner at La Fosse at Cranborne

Any tasty Christmas dinner cheats you can share?

Do as much preparation as you can in advance. This is also beneficial to the quality of your dinner, for example par cooking potatoes the day before will help to dehydrate them, so they will crisp better when roasting. And cooking carrots the day before in orange juice will give them an extra special flavour. Then leave them in the cooking liquid and reheat on Christmas Day. What’s the best bit of the meal for you?

Picking leftover meat from the turkey and dunking Orchard Bay sourdough bread and Dorset sea salt in the turkey dripping.

Is there a seasonal tune you like to play while cooking?

Stop The Cavalry by Jona Lewie is a great Christmas song.

Share your favourite way to use up any leftovers Scrape up all those leftover veggies and bits together in a pan, add a healthy dollop of wholegrain mustard, fry up and serve with smoked haddock.

What’s on your kitchen present list?

A Fogarty Charcoal Oven – it can reach temperatures of 450ºC + with up to 12 different grill rack positions for multiple food types and alternative cooking timings. I hope Santa thinks I’ve been nice this year!

JOHN TOBIN The Rivers Edge chef at the Rose & Crown Hotel, Harnham Road, Salisbury

What is your top Christmas dinnertime saver?

Make pigs in blankets from fresh and freeze in early December. The same can be done with the turkey stock.

Any insider chef cheats?

Always cook and blanche your vegetables on Christmas Eve, and for brussels sprouts everyone will actually eat, slice them, then sautée with garlic and add chopped smoked bacon before serving.

What will you be listening on the radio while doing this?

Fairytale of New York by the Pogues and Kirsty MacColl.

Money no object, what gift would you give to your kitchen this Christmas?

Two new Rational Ovens.

The precision-controlled cabinet climate is said to even retain vitamins and minerals during cooking.

What are your Christmas leftover secrets?

Pies! Any meat leftovers make wonderful winter pies. Some of my favourites include turkey and cranberry pie, and beef and ale pie. Turkey and chestnut paté is also lovely. www.legacy-hotels.co.uk

www.la-fosse.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 49

Order your turkey for Christmas today!

Great selection of cheeses Walters traditional turkeys Geese, ducks and game Dry cured green and smoked gammons Well hung local beef

Quality local meats and ďŹ ne foods

W.S. Clarke & Sons Butchers & Fine Foods

55 High Street, Sixpenny Handley, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP5 5ND 01725 552328 john@clarkesthebutcher.co.uk www.clarkesthebutcher.co.uk

SPIRE GIN Handcrafted herb-infused gin £34.95 | 70cl 37.5%

Inspired by the interest and support I received for Test Valley Gin from the people of Salisbury, I wanted to create a local gin for the city. In my search for locally sourced, fresh herbs of the highest quality I found Alex; head chef and chocolatier based in Salisbury. I was drawn to our shared ethos of the importance of local produce for local people and the interesting botanicals and unusual flavours used in his handcrafted chocolates.

SPIRE GIN is completely hand crafted by me in small batches in my Grandad’s kitchen (!) a few miles from the “£1 per bottle city of Salisbury. I only use sold will be donated to fresh, locally grown herbs; no flavourings or essences Salisbury based charity to create a light, fresh, SpiresSmiles, as a thank citrusy flavour. you for the support they

Enjoy,Kate

have given my family.”

Current stockists: www.theginstall.co.uk Waitrose Farm Shop at Leckford Rosebourne Weyhill Wine Utopia Stockbridge and Winchester

kate.griffin@spire.co.uk www.spire.co.uk | 01264 710768

www.lyburncheese.co.uk 01794 399982

PRODUCING THE GOODS SARAH MOOLLA takes a butchers at Pritchetts Butchers and finds a joint dedicated to delivering the best for their customers Photo s by Joh n Rose

P

eople are often scared of the butchers. They worry about asking for the wrong product, overspending and then not having a flying pig of a clue of how to cook what they’ve bought. The cellophanewrapped, pale-grey, stickeredinstructions supermarket choice is sadly seen as preferable to us making fools of ourselves. This is where Charles Aldridge, the co-director of Pritchetts Butchers, is a very smart man. He gets that fear and instead of just blithely carrying on in the traditional ‘my-way or the high-way’ approach to trading, he’s revising the way he presents the Fish Row shop.

“We are all about making people feel welcome – we can offer service, quality, knowledge of the business but, also, it is about letting people know they don’t have to buy in big quantities. Some of our customers will come in for two sausages – that is what we are here for, and any sale is a sale.”

A quick glance around reveals he is managing this brilliantly with the help of his co-director dad Mark – who started in his own father’s 52 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

butcher’s shop aged nine, then a store in Downton, before taking on Pritchetts over 20 years ago – and his brother Tom who helps out part-time between his university studies.

There are products in the window – packaged, clearly labelled and transparently-priced, so even the most novice of shoppers can buy with confidence. But the real difference and the real reason this is a world away from the supermarkets, is that this produce is farm fresh.

“Everything we can is locally sourced, with pork and lamb from Romsey; even the condiments are from a local Wiltshire business, Tracklements.

“We are also currently in talks with even more local farmers in Downton and Andover about stocking their beef pork and lamb.”

Charles is totally committed to not only making this business work, which is believed to have been a Pritchetts butchers for more than 150 years, but also serving the Salisbury community. “We realise people might not want to buy their meat to cart around so we will keep their shopping until they are ready to pick up.

We’ve even been known to drop off if they live locally, and long term we plan to develop a proper delivery service.”

R E M A R K A B L E R E TA I L

SHOPPING

EVEN THE CONDIMENTS ARE FROM A LOCAL WILTSHIRE BUSINESS

Clockwise from far left: Charles is a co-director at Pritchetts; a customer found this paper bag in their loft; their bike outside the Fish Mill shop; Charles has been researching the shop’s history; only fresh, locally sourced produce makes the Pritchetts cut; the store is believed to be more than 150 years old; Charles with his dad Mark; a tiled cow mosaic dating from the 1920s adorns the wall

Along with their new ideas, which include selling gluten-free homemade sausages, burgers and faggots, Charles and his family have oldschool chat, charm and cooking know-how.

“A TV chef recently used ox cheek and the next morning, we sold out in a few hours.

People realise that we have not just quality, but also the more unusual cuts.”

The day I’m there, the whole cross-section of customers call in – there’s a restaurant owner and his chef stocking up, a student looking for a Friday treat for his tea and a couple of regulars who arrive with gossip and a shopping list.

They definitely fit Charles’ description of his typical customer, “Someone who enjoys their food, wants quality meat, and prefers service with a smile!” There’s also talk of the nearing Christmas period. “We are preparing for more than 300 turkeys about to be delivered, plus we’re sorting out the hampers,” explains Charles.

“While it is a crazy time, it is also one of the best times to be in this business. We love it.”

For more: Pritchetts Butchers 5 Fish Row, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324 346

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 53

Forkingout Merry Christmas to all of our customers

Ltd

Catering for all occasions

01722 328 808 www.forkingout4food.com

THE ANGEL INN Enjoy a casual or fine dining experience with a range of fine wines and gins from around the world.

10% off

Giles & Cathy welcome you.

food with code: AngelHeytesbury SalsLife

The Boot Inn • Sawday’s Special Places, Pubs and Inns Guide 2017 • 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)

The Angel Inn, High Street, Heytesbury, Warminster, BA12 0ED Tel: 01985 841790

High Street, Berwick St James, Salisbury, Wilts, SP3 4TN t: 01722 790243 • w: www.theboot.pub e: cathy@theboot.pub

Christmas all wrapped up at Vita Christmas pamper parties Are you looking for something different this year for your work party? Or maybe you would like some pampering before your work meal?

We are open until 8pm so you can start your pamper party after work or you can come to us and enjoy a whole afternoon of pampering.

PAMPER PARTY Choose from manicure / pedicure / back, neck and shoulder massage / face, scalp and neck massage 1 treatment plus sauna session, glass of Prosecco & mince pies – £50pp / 2 treatments – £75pp INDULGENCE PAMPER PARTY Choose 1 from: manicure / pedicure / aroma wax foot & leg massage Plus choose 1 from: full body massage / any of our facials 2 treatments plus sauna, glass of Prosecco & mince pies – £99pp

FESTIVE GINGER & SPICE RITUAL Charcoal and winter berry body scrub, gingerbread wrap & full body massage with vanilla oil.

THREE KINGS Gold body scrub, full body hot stone massage, 23 carat gold facial and cocoa foot massage.

WINTER WONDERLAND Mulled wine scrub, chocolate mud wrap & lava shell back massage with frankincense & berry oil.

CHRISTMAS HYGGE RASUL Vanilla mud wrap, charcoal & winter berry scrub & full body moisturise with fig & vanilla lotion.

PERUVIAN GOLD Hot stone back massage & 23 carat gold facial with Peruvian jojoba oil.

ALL THAT GLITTERS Gold body scrub, gold wrap & full body massage with gold honey gel.

Visit us in December for a treatment & receive a voucher for a

HALF PRICE TREATMENT IN JANUARY T&Cs apply for the January treatment.

Vita Skin Spa, 26 St Ann St, Salisbury. SP1 2DP • Follow us on twitter @Vitaskinspa • Open 7 days a week and until 8pm Mon - Fri

01722 346324 • www.vitaskinspa.co.uk

✃

WINTER HOLISTIC JOURNEY Signature full body massage and Thai foot massage using a cocoa massage candle.

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

Xxxxx

Before: frazzled yellow

LOVE REASSURES OWNER CHARLOTTE CHURCHILL WE A CHALLENGE!

After: smoothly grey

The salon is a great place to relax

FADE TO GREY Sarah Moolla visits CHARLOTTE CHURCHILL HAIR STUDIO and enjoys a very grey day

I

once was a brunette. And then I wasn’t, but kept pretending I was, with the help of copious amounts of dye. The battle finally ended a year ago when I had the colour professionally stripped out. The result was initially blonde. But really I wasn’t blonde and I didn’t want to pretend to be one either. It was time to be the real me, which is grey.

The process has been a long one and, more recently, as the blonde has grown out, the ends have been looking nicotine-stained and the regrowth an ashy grey. The cigarette look was not my aim. So Charlotte Churchill to the rescue, a small stylish Salisbury salon that loves all things colour from flamboyage and balayage to ombre and colour melt.

“We love a challenge!” reassures owner Charlotte Churchill as she introduces me to Chloe, who has been a stylist for six years,

and has worked with Charlotte for just over a year. I take no offence at being called ‘a challenge’ – this means I am in safe hands.

I relax, and get on with the job of flicking through glossy magazines, sipping fresh coffee and familiarising myself with the latest music videos on the salon TV, while Chloe and Charlotte work out the best shade to take my hair. “The aim,” they muse, “is to get your hair looking healthy, full of vitality and shine, and a more blended shade.”

“Yeah, good luck with that,” I think, eyeing up my parched and patchy-coloured hair in the mirror.

The process begins with the selection of a pretty pastel high-gloss tone called Clear Dust by Colour Touch Instamatics and made by Wella. It is mixed with a little of something that the guys want to keep secret, to create a magical shade that Chloe describes as a “beautiful cotton silver tone”.

Hair stylist Chloe

Olaplex, which repairs the bonds in the hair, bringing back the vitality, natural shine and movement, was applied at every stage. Plus a protein mask made by milk_shake, who use only natural ingredients such as milk and yogurt proteins and fruit extracts to enhance the hair’s natural beauty by moisturising and replenishing.

Chloe then removed and blunted the dry ends to make the hair feel thicker and denser, and followed this with a silky smooth straight blow-dry. The result is exactly as they had predicted – it looks healthy, full of vitality and shine, and a more blended shade.

It’s as if each strand has been coloured in with a pencil – now that is something to write home about.

For more: Charlotte Churchill Hair Studio, 165 Fisherton Street, Salisbury; tel: 01722 413091; www.charlottechurchill.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 57

Get spotted this Christmas

Gift vouchers & online gift cards are available

with a whiter smile WENDY STEVENS SALISBURY is a stunning new contemporary salon that opened in the High street in August.

It’s easier than you think

They provide a range of hair services including colouring, wedding services, working with hair thinning and hair loss.

The friendly staff are always on hand to see to your every need and the stylists pride themselves on listening carefully during the consultation.

Client comfort was paramount when designing the Salon. The exposed brickwork and original beams give the salon a calm and welcoming ambience, so you can enjoy the most relaxing hair experience possible.

Call us today

01722 327788

f WSHair@wssalisbury wssalisbury

Online bookings are available at www.wendystevenssalisbury.co.uk

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

01722 413513

everything you want from a dentist...and much more

AT ILE TH M D S EN EN M OK BR

Southern Smilesltd Looking for somewhere to make and fit your New Dentures, or repair, reline or replicate your existing Denture?

Now it could not be easier to find high quality Dentures close to home. At Southern Smiles in Salisbury, every smile we create is individual and unique to each patient. So that you may benefit from the natural looking dentures that are just right for you.

• Denture Repairs • Denture Strengthening • Denture Alterations • Full Dentures • Flexible Dentures • Mouth guards 9a Catherine Street, Salisbury SP1 2DF Tel: 01722 410430 Monday - Thursday Friday GDC number 135012

9 - 17.30 9 - 13.00

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PARTY DRESSES Mondays: Closed

Tuesday - Saturday: 10.00am - 5.00pm

15 Milford Street, Salisbury SP1 2AL Telephone: 01722 410522 www.twentyonebsalisbury.co.uk

Business suits Jackets Suits Trousers Skirts Curtains Made to measure

TAILORING ALTERATIONS FOR LADIES & GENTLEMEN

Military uniforms and medal ribbons altered Shirt and t-shirt ironing service JEANS, LEATHER JACKETS CURTAINS, ZIPS, DRESSES SKIRTS, ETC

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PROFESSIONAL LEATHER REPAIRS

UNIT 4, THE MALTINGS, SALISBURY SP1 1BD • 01722 322377

73 New Street, Salisbury www.regenttailoring.co.uk

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

S A L IS B U RY G E T S S ER I O US LOCAL ECONOMY

MARKET FORCES

How much is the market bringing to Salisbury?

“I DID HAVE A STINT WORKING IN A SCUBA DIVING AND SAILING RESORT”

While The Salisbury Christmas Market might look pretty, does it bring a pretty penny to the city?

With Drinks in Tubes, Georgie Porgies Christmas Puddings, the Spruce Lodge Bar, and a total of 79 stalls, the Salisbury Christmas Market is in full swing for a sixth year. Aesthetically it looks wonderful, transforming the Guildhall Square, the heart of our city, from 23 November until 22 December, into a magical labyrinth of treasures, tinsel and festivities.

With more than 300 coaches bringing in at least 8,000 visitors alone, the footfall to the market is undeniable, but what benefit does it actually bring to business in Salisbury?

According to the data for 2016, as well as attracting people from outside of Wiltshire and even as far afield as Australia, Gibraltar, USA and Ireland, visitors to the market totalled 200,902, with footfall to the city increasing by 1.3 per cent from the previous year. “While it is difficult to provide an exact financial figure for how much the Salisbury Christmas Market adds to the

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

Who worked under the sea before taking the plunge into furniture and homeware?

Turn to page 67 to find out.

economy of the city,” says Steve Godwin, operations manager for Salisbury Business Improvement District, “a reasonable guide would be £500,000 during the 30-day period of the market.

Salisbury BID’s Steph Shearing, adds, “In 2016 it was found that 48 per cent of visitors spent or were expected to spend over £30 elsewhere in the city – this was up from 43 per cent in 2015.”

The same survey also revealed 19.4 per cent of local businesses said the impact on their own business had been was very positive and 54.2 per cent said it was slightly positive.

For more: www.salisburychristmasmarket.co.uk

750k THE BIG NUMBER

Which park was rewarded for keeping this number of visitors happy?

Turn to page 64 to find out

BUSINESS INSIDER

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

Kirsty, with Toby who visits Julia’s House with his family

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC TAKE A SEAT

Left to right: Keeley Clayton, Mel Ewers, Jennifer Sutton, Doug King, Katie Davies, Karl Prince, Emma Reeks, Sally Norman and Ben Symes

MORE FOR MOORS! Moors Valley Country Park and Forest staff and volunteers recently celebrated a third year of success in the Dorset Tourism Awards after taking gold in the Large Attraction category. They also scooped silver in the new Artistic, Cultural and Learning Experience category, and ranger Katie Davies received a personal award for Outstanding Customer Service. Go Ape, which provides treetop adventures at Moors Valley also received a Silver award in the Active and Sporting

Rebecca receives her award from Minister for Rural Affairs and Biosecurity, Lord Gardiner

WELL WELL

Experience category.

“To win one award is amazing, but to come away with so many is simply fantastic,” says team leader Clare Gronow. “Delivering that special Moors Valley experience would not be possible without our team of incredibly dedicated staff. Their combined talents play a huge part in making sure all our 750,000 visitors enjoy their time with us, regardless of age or ability.”

For more: www.moors-valley.co.uk

Cardwave recently shared the proceeds of its office refurb furniture sales with three local charities. Marketing assistant Kirsty Hinton explains, “Instead of simply recycling our old and unwanted furniture, we raised money by selling it off and gave the £275 raised to the Devizes Opportunity Centre, Julia’s House and Wiltshire Air Ambulance. What didn’t sell, we found homes for.” www.cardwave.com

B Positive, established in September 2017 by Ira Blake (Light My Space) and Lindsey Brown Burden (LBB Business Solutions), is a network of local experts and business owners from Salisbury. Their aim is to highlight important issues of health and well-being through articles, blogs and newsletters. lindsey@brownburden.com| ivb@lightmyspace.co.uk

SCIENCE MATTERS Salisbury Satellite recently launched a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Challenge for girls in Years 8 and 9 in Salisbury schools. The plan is to build on the success of similar projects run by soroptimist clubs in other parts of the UK, and the aims are to raise awareness of the career opportunities for women within these fields. www.sigbi.org

SUCH A BUZZ! The bee-saving work of Rebecca Twigg of The Secret Garden, Salisbury has been recognised at the Bees’ Needs Champions Awards. Held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in November, the event celebrated 17 bee-boosting nationwide projects from volunteers, schools, charities and councils including Rebecca’s Salisbury Bee Trail and her Bee City project.

Rebecca says, “I am delighted to have achieved this award and am looking forward to watching the band of new bee champions grow around the community of Salisbury and beyond.”

Her downloadable apps are designed to be informative, fun and increase awareness of the need to protect bees in Salisbury.

For more: www.secretgardensalisbury.uk

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

The PTA helped fund the Steinway piano

LEGAL Q&A PATRICIA RUSSELL of Batt Broadbent solicitors answers questions on the issue of mental health in the workplace Recent statistics published by the Health and Safety Executive have shone a worrying spotlight on the increasing levels of stress, depression and anxiety suffered by workers. Top of the list of the affected professions are welfare workers, with women being more prone across the board to suffer mental health issues due to work.

Why is this such an issue for employers?

Employers should sit up and take note; mental health issues result in poor attendance, performance, staff turnover and morale, which all have a knock-on effect on productivity and additional costs for the business such as sick pay and the need to recruit temps to cover absences. Unless appropriate measures are put in place to support workers, a downward spiral can ensue where those staff who are left to pick up the pieces become stressed themselves.

What causes stress at work and what can employers do?

Causes of stress at work are varied but include long hours, poor pay and the inability to balance work and family commitments. Increased levels of stress are also strongly linked to our “always on” technology culture, meaning employees can feel obliged to be at the beck and call of their clients and bosses 24/7. Research shows that staff are happier where there is a sense of cohesion, regular appraisals and positive management styles. Much can therefore be achieved by appropriate HR policies, well-being initiatives and management training.

Are there legal implications?

Employers have a duty of care to safeguard the health and well-being of their workers and will find themselves vulnerable to personal injury and constructive unfair dismissal claims if they fail to do so. In addition, some mental health conditions will amount to a “disability” under the Equality Act 2010, affording those affected employees protection against discrimination and imposing obligations on the employer to make “reasonable adjustments” to the working environment.

For more: New guidance Promoting positive mental health in the workplace is now available for download at www.acas.org.uk. If you require further assistance in relation to mental health issues in the workplace or if you need any other employment law advice please contact Patricia Russell, tel: 01722 411141; www.battbroadbent.co.uk

KEY EVENT King Edward VI School recently held its first event in the new 400-seater Dobson Theatre, which is part of a recent multi-million pound building project. Suzanne Hooper, the school’s development officer, explains, “We held the school’s annual prizegiving ceremony in the new Dobson Theatre in September. As well as providing an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of King Edward’s pupils, bringing together students of all ages, the event was also an ideal occasion for parents and guests to view the newly refurbished art studios, atrium and theatre.

“We are also fortunate to have a brand new Steinway piano that has been kindly funded through its PTA, and this was played beautifully by one of our students for its first public performance.”

For more: www.kes.hants.sch.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 65

DARREN

MACDONALD

FUNERAL DIRECTORS LIMITED

Your Local Funeral Directors Office and Chapel of Rest Personal & friendly 24 hour service

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BUSINESS INSIDER

CERAMICS

IAN MORRISON American-born Ian Morrison is the founder and lead potter of the Broad Chalke Knighton Mill Pottery. Here he talks trends, log cabins and his shock at the cost of UK materials You’re originally from the US – how did end up in this part of the world?

I grew up in the US and moved to the UK in 2014 to work as a production potter for Leach Pottery in St. Ives, Cornwall. I met some great people, and was impressed by the broad level of interest in ceramics in the UK, so when I was offered the opportunity to start a new pottery in Wiltshire, I couldn’t resist.

Have you always been a potter?

I have been working with clay for over 18 years, but I started my first pottery in 2007 after working and studying under various potters in the US and in China. During the early years, I also worked restoring log cabins and decking to supplement my income.

What is pottery like as a way of life, and as a way of earning a living?

It is not the peaceful and meditative process some people think. Production pottery is extremely hard work and relentless hours. But we get up every morning in a beautiful setting and get to make beautiful things with our hands. It gives me real satisfaction to have someone pick up one of our pots and love the look and feel of it. In the ceramics industry, every firing is like Christmas.

IN THE

some degree but for me, coming from America, I found things here like building materials, tools and gas for the kiln to be much more expensive than in the US. What have been the main advantages of working for yourself?

The first word that comes to mind is control – both creative control to build the workshop and kiln the way that I wanted, and design control to create the range I wanted. It’s a huge advantage when you have a vision and can manage everything from the ground up.

Does Knighton Mill Pottery have a philosophy?

What drives us every day is high quality and affordability. Our pots belong on the table, not up on a shelf collecting dust, so we make beautiful but practical pots and keep them reasonably priced, so that people will not be afraid to use them.

CERAMICS INDUSTRY EVERY FIRING IS LIKE CHRISTMAS

Tell us a little about Knighton Mill Pottery – what is the company’s background?

The idea was to draw on my past working experiences to build a place that could produce a commercial volume of high-quality artisan pottery. I started to build the pottery at Knighton Mill in 2015 in some disused family farm buildings and we fired the first kiln in August 2016.

What is the inspiration?

I like to look to history for inspiration. There are a lot of traditional aspects in the way the pottery and kiln were built. So there is a historical influence, but our work is a modern take on the way things used to be done. Working at the Leach Pottery really reinforced that concept for me; their modern workshop sits next to their hundred-year-old workshop.

For both potteries, we respect the traditions of the past while making ceramics relevant for a contemporary audience.

Were there any shocks when you first set up?

Yes, the cost! I’m sure every new small business experiences this to

What are the changes have you seen in the pottery industry, and how does that impact on Knighton Mill Pottery?

We’re pleased the trend towards locally made products using regionally sourced materials continues to be important in the UK market. Even restaurants are searching for tableware that is local and natural, which sets up the challenge of providing this for them.

Did BBC2’s The Great Pottery Throw Down help the industry?

There are mixed reviews within our field about the quality of the show, but it has certainly increased awareness about handmade pottery. And I know it has been good for our suppliers who have been selling more wheels and kilns than ever before.

How are you raising the profile of Knighton Mill Pottery?

Like many small businesses, social media and the internet are key to building awareness of our products. In addition to our gallery presence, we have just added an online shop, which we hope will make our products more available.

How do you intend to develop the business?

We’re not interested in sacrificing quality or standards. While we do want to grow our brand, this will be at a manageable rate. We also hope to expand into teaching and become an even greater advocate for both the village and the artisan ceramics industry in the UK. For more: Knighton Mill Pottery, Knighton Road, Broad Chalke, Salisbury. tel: 01722 780128; www.knightonmillpottery.com

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

We help around 200,000 cats and kittens every year thanks in no small part to our network of over 250 volunteer-run branches and 32 adoption centres.

From .. then.

w!

to no

The Cats Protection League was formed on 16 May 1927 at a meeting in Caxton Hall, London. While the thought of snuggling up with your cat on the settee is now considered a great way to spend the afternoon, it was unthinkable in the 1920s and unfortunately thousands of cats were subjected to cruelty, neglect and starvation. A rabies outbreak in 1923 saw a restriction in the importation of cats and attention soon turned to the plight of the ordinary moggy. Under the chairmanship of Jessey Wade, cat-lovers came together to form a society devoted to promoting their interest, and so began the work of the Cats Protection League.

The Salisbury & District branch was set up in the 1980s and one of its founders was a lady called Marie Ross who started off with two pens.

Today we have eleven local fosterers. Contrary to what some people believe we have no homing centre as such in Salisbury but foster the cats we bring in at volunteer fosterer’s homes. Prospective adopters will then arrange to see the cat they are interested in with the fosterer.

Prior to rehoming we carry out a home visit to ensure the property and position of it is acceptable for the cat. We charge ÂŁ60 per cat, which will include any neutering, chipping, vaccinations and treatment that might have been needed. We have an active local fund raising scheme and endeavour to have one event a month which ranges from street collections, charity stalls, etc.

Come and see us at the Christmas Chalet in Guildhall Square, Salisbury | Friday 15th December We are also collecting outside Tesco in Southampton Road | Sunday 17th December

Ali Theobald - Salisbury and District Cats Protection PO Box 2321, Salisbury SP2 2LA 01722 664 606 salisbury.cats@hotmail.co.uk

www.salisbury.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

BUSINESS INSIDER

FURNITURE & HOMEWARE

JEMMA PAGE

Jemma on the right, with business partner Mimmi

Jemma Page is the director and co-founder of Orchid, which along with quirky, colourful, traditional and classic furniture, lighting and accessories, offers a homedesign service and workshops.

Here she talks life-changing neighbours, Far East shopping trips and loving TV’s Poldark Tell us a little about your nomadic upbringing...

I grew up in Kent and then Hong Kong, Thailand and the Philippines, where I lived in the 80s and 90s. I returned to the UK and worked in London for many years, then moved to Hampshire to be closer to my family and return to a rural lifestyle.

What has been your career path?

After leaving school at 16, I was accepted for a place on the two-year trainee buyer scheme at Harrods, which involved college block release.

The majority of my career was then in sales and marketing. However I did have a stint working in a scuba diving and sailing resort when I lived into Philippines, and also several years selling advertising in Thailand and Hong Kong.

...and any lows?

Challenges presented by external forces which impact on the business outside our control. For example: changes in the economy, politics and shipment delays, which then affects our service.

How do you source your amazing products?

Through long-standing contacts from the north to the south of China, attending fairs around the world and also through being contacted by suppliers via our website.

WE DID ALL THE CUSTOMER DELIVERIES, BEFORE AND AFTER WORK, IN A HORSEBOX

How did you meet your Orchid business partner, Mimmi Waugh?

A few months after moving to Hampshire I was frustrated by the lack of furniture and inspirational interiors designs, I found my new neighbour was also having the same problems. That was Mimmi who had recently moved from Sweden to the UK as a member of the Swedish three-day eventing team. We became friendly, and searched together for beautifully designed furniture and found it was lacking. We visited the Far East for a whirlwind tour and struck up a relationship with the man who was to become our first and largest supplier for many years.

When did Orchid launch?

It was late 2001, and Mimmi and I did all the jobs. We had one computer between us which we took turns on, we unloaded the containers, we did the stock repairs, polishing and preparation. We even did all the customer deliveries before and after work in a horsebox.

What were the benefits of this all-jobs approach?

It gave us a great grounding to understand those roles and what our staff need to do, as well as the opportunity to see inside our customers’ houses and understand their profiles, where they live, the sort of lifestyles they have, and what they expect from their deliveries.

What are the highs you’ve experienced in setting up and continuing the business?

Opening our first store near Stockbridge in 2002; owning our King’s Road London store in April 2007; making over 40 bespoke pieces for the Macau Hotel Suite in the Bond film Skyfall; fitting out an A list ninecottage resort in Antigua – the resort costs US$25,000 per night to rent.

Do you find social media useful?

Yes, very much so, it is an important element of our extensive and busy digital marketing practices. We have 18,000 followers on Facebook which does generate sales, as well as strong followings on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz – all of which are powerful product and branding publicity tools and act as fantastic ambassadors for us worldwide.

If you started you today, what might you do differently?

I would begin with a larger staff to hit the ground running. We hadn’t realised how quickly we would grow in to a multi-national brand. We assumed we would only attract local customers from the home counties, but the internet has changed this and we ship regularly to Europe, America and even the Far East.

Any memorable moments with clients?

Not long after we opened, a client wanted to buy quite a bit; turns out he owned a whole village in Majorca and his order filled a container – we were excited and terrified in equal measure. He still shops with us now. Also the props crew from the BBC drama Poldark have recently bought many items for the new series. I’m a huge fan of the show so cannot wait to see our stock on screen!

Any personal favourite shop items?

Our teal and turquoise furniture and a lot of our restored antiques. I also love our horse statues and the Thailand spire tea-light holders.

What’s one thing about you that would surprise people?

Fifteen years ago, I joined a crew of five friends to sail a Swan yacht back to the UK from Hong Kong it was exhausting, beautiful, scary and exhilarating.

For more: Orchid, The Old Barn, Sandydown, Near Stockbridge, Hampshire. tel: 01264 811111; www.orchidfurniture.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 69

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

MY ENDLESS LOVE ELSIE CHADWICK is smitten with the new build that is at the centre of her Salisbury world

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

M

ove over old man – there’s a new guy in town. As part of a select development of houses in the heart of Salisbury, this gated mews is good news. Fulford House, Endless Street, Salisbury is Ash Mill Developments latest scheme of just six carefully designed and appointed homes in a convenient and charming central Salisbury location. The four new build town houses and two restored Regency houses come with parking and landscaped gardens, a rarity in such city-centre locations.

But it’s inside where the magic begins; while the ‘blank canvas’ is ideal for both those with artistic ambitions, or those with a plethora of already-owned accessories, the finish is high-end luxe with names you can trust.

The handmade wooden kitchen units by Guild Anderson are painted in Farrow & Ball colours; the oak floating shelves come with integrated LED lighting, the appliances are Siemens; the worktops are granite and the upstand chrome mixer tap with integral Quooker provides instant boiling water. This is just the kitchen by the way.

Moving to the bathrooms it is Villeroy & Boch sanitary ware with Hansgrohe taps, infra-red activated vanity mirrors, duel fuel chrome towel rails and underfloor heating. Throughout the home, there is engineered wide board oak flooring, porcelain tiles in the bathrooms with underfloor heating and Cormar wool mix carpets to stairs, landing and bedrooms.

In the drawing room, you’ll find Charnwood wood burners and classic style column radiators with zonal control throughout, with warm-air curtain-style flush mounted floor heaters around the large full height bay window in the kitchen.

Above, clockwise: the spacious lounge is perfect for relaxing; kitchen island for casual dining; high ceilings in the bedroom; easy-tomaintain garden space; left: bright and welcoming reception area

HOUSE NUMBERS

2,792 square footage

4

bedrooms

£1.2M guide price

10

year home guarantee

And the spec is not just all for show, behind the scenes the credentials are 5-star with the Worcester Bosch boiler and a pressurised hot water system, a five-amp light ring to the main rooms, digital media point to the drawing room, kitchen and all bedrooms. The home comes with a 10 year premier new homes warranty, hardwired fire and carbon monoxide alarms, video operated entry system to the mews gates with separate vehicular and pedestrian entry and communal area lighting on a daylight sensor.

However while the build might be brand new, the foundations are as old as the hills. Endless Street, now buzzing with boutiques, bars and restaurants, was originally part of one long road in the then newly built Salisbury city. It was coined ‘endless’ as there was no gate across it and it continued into the open countryside.

A quick Google unearths an 18th century weavers’ company, an inn house. The Regal Cinema and the former County Hall. So, while this property has just come into our world, we feel like we’ve known it all our lives.

For more: London Real Estate Advisors; www.londonrea.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 71

residential lettings & property management

Don’t be in the dog house this Christmas! www.piccoloproperty.co.uk 01722 580059

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• Find us opposite Tisbury Railway Station.

Do you just require materials for your own move?

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

Q&A

P

PHOTO BY WESSEX ARCHAEOLOGY

hil Harding was Channel 4’s Time Team’s resident trench excavator for over 20 seasons.

He also still works as a field archaeologist with Wessex Archaeology, and has been involved in a project that lists all known Palaeolithic sites in Britain. Phil, who lives in Salisbury, has completed a number of excavation reports – including some for Time Team – on sites ranging from the Palaeolithic to the Industrial Revolution. His famed ‘flintknapping’ continues to be demonstrated at craft shows and to local societies. In 2013 he was awarded Archaeologist of the Year, and it is widely acknowledged his enthusiasm for the subject has inspired countless others to try the discipline.

I’ve lived in Salisbury now for about 30 years; it’s pretty much the longest I’ve ever lived anywhere. The decision to move here was motivated by the idea that I would be nearer my work base and also to carve out a new life for myself.

I came from a fairly ordinary, but loving family, and was brought up in an isolated rural environment in north Wiltshire. As a kid I did what kids growing up in those surroundings did, played cowboys and indians, and helped in the fields during haymaking and harvest.

I was probably constituted as a failure for the school. My A level results were not outstanding and as I didn’t progress to any form of further education, which was as important to the school then as it is to schools now. But I had a dream – I’d been on a dig at 15-years old and wanted passionately to be an archaeologist.

Diaries I kept at the time confirm just how determined I was.

Archaeology as a career was impossible then, but I learned much from an old school colleague, Nick Bradford, who, like me, never went to university but also went into archaeology.

He could dig for England and was an ideal role model.

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

PHIL HARDING The archaeologist and TV presenter, who is also a senior field archaeologist at Wessex Archaeology, talks about his childhood dream of digging for dirt and being mistaken for Noddy Holder My ability to ‘shift muck’ quickly was an attribute that got me noticed, and the fact I wasn’t workshy, when I began my career as an itinerant digger on the circuit in 1971.

We continue to pick up new fans globally through the satellite channels, and the repeats continue to be watched avidly by many of our loyal viewers.

I don’t know how long I could have persisted with this lifestyle, but thankfully full-time posts were created in 1975 and I got one in my beloved county of Wiltshire. Since then archaeology has become an acceptable profession with an associated career structure.

I was once mistaken for Noddy Holder when attending a garden party at Buckingham Palace, and have been linked with gardening programmes and horse racing. Being recognised is nothing out of the ordinary, although associations are sometimes confused.

Time Team came along in 1994 and life could never be quite the same again. It has generated so many happy memories, people we’ve met, places we visited and of course the archaeology we revealed. It even made it possible for me to play my guitar to open a live transmission. I don’t think I will ever quite understand just how big the impact of the programme was. After all we were on the inside looking out, blissfully unaware that not all TV programmes continue unbroken for 20 years or that we’d all continue to get on with one another.

I’ll always remain first and foremost an archaeologist. I like to think I’ve made a contribution, not merely through TV but also through academic achievement. But rest assured, it ain’t over yet – the passion is still there and I intend to complete much more before I finally hang up my trowel.

For more: www.wessexarch.co.uk

The largest collection of tiles in Salisbury

Opening hours: Monday - Friday 7.30am-5pm, Saturday 9am-5pm Salisbury Tile Store, Unit 2 Faraday Centre, Faraday Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7NR and Unit 5, The Enterprise Centre, William Road, Nursteed, Devizes, SN10 3EW Email: info@salisburytilestore.net Telephone: 01722 325306

www.salisburytilestore.net