Salisbury Life - Issue 252

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property Issue 252 / April 2018 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN SALISBURY & WILTSHIRE

IN THE RUNNING

On your marks, and get set for FITNESS

Dining at the Haunch of Venison ISSUE 252 / APRIL 2018/BIRD SONG

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS

SQUAWK THIS WAY

HOW TO make the perfect FRY UP

CELEBRATING Salisbury’s QUEER ARTS FESTIVAL

Ways of W

BY ST GEORGE!

Tracing English ancestry the DNA way

Seeing

Fisherton Mill’s latest exhibition Plus! PHILL JUPITUS/ GARETH MACHIN/VP MOTORCYCLES/ VITA SKIN SPA

GOING FOR GOLD

Splendid Shaftesbury

42

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 252 / APRIL 2018

SHAFTESBURY Locals share their town’s highlights

©WWW.JAMESMCMILLANPHOTOGRAPHER.COM

One of a kind Sometimes we don’t choose the cover.

The cover chooses us. As soon as we saw Sweet Song by Margaret Ashman, which is part of the new Fisherton Mill exhibition, it was decision made.

Initially it was for the photo etching’s ethereal and haunting beauty alone, but then, when we learned the inspiration is depicting deaf models dancing and signing (read the full story on page 15), it even better represented some of the themes of this issue which celebrate people’s difference, diversity and dedication.

Salisbury is privileged to have its own SQUAWK Festival which is an entertaining and inspiring programme dedicated to varied and wonderful gender and sexual identities (page 20).

To mark St. George’s Day and to tell another story about being proud to be English, I took a DNA test (page 24). We also talk full English breakfasts on page 30 and visit Shaftesbury, a quintessentially pretty English town full of humour, history and hill top cheese racing (page 42).

And to get motivated to compete in next year’s cheese races, turn to page 50 for expert fitness advice.

Stay unique and see you next issue!

Sarah Moolla Editor sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Tweet us @SalisburyLife Follow us on Instagram:@salisburylifemag

REGULARS / ISSUE 252 / APRIL 2018

28

THE ARTS 15 Arts intro

Margaret Ashman is one of the artists at Fisherton Mill’s Impress exhibition

M EET T H E T EAM Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk

Exbury’s new caterers, Longleat’s restaurant and an award-winning pub

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Ed’s photo John Rose Contributors John Rose 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

28 Restaurant

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

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

20 Festival The wonderful SQUAWK festival returns to Salisbury

LIFEST YLE 24 DNA testing A genetic look at what it means to be English

FOOD 27 Food & drink news

Dining on another plane at the bewitching Haunch of Venison

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

30 Full English Celebrating the great British breakfast

SHOPPING 38 Editor’s choice We’ve gone all mellow yellow

HEALTH

PROPERT Y

50 Keeping fit

64 Property showcase

Expert local advice on how to get ready for the Salisbury Half marathon

This secluded Redlynch home is a woodland wonder

42 Shaftesbury

BUSINESS

Locals guide us around the pretty North Dorset market town

57 Business insider

8 12 66

40 Remarkable retail Opening up the throttle with Kate Prevett of VP Motorycles

OUT OF TOWN

44 Shaftesbury food & drink festival A round-up to the fab foodie all-day event which includes cheese racing

News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

61 My desk Vita Skin Spa’s Nikki Spicer shares her desk space

DEPARTMENTS Spotlight Scene Salisbury lives

On the cover Margaret Ashman’s Sweet Song can be seen at Fisherton Mill – turn to page 15 for the story behind the image

3 Counties Counselling & Autism Assessment is sponsoring an

Art Exhibit

When: 1st – 31st May 2018 Where: Salisbury Library Submission Deadline: 1st May 2018

Artist: Jackie Russ

Entry submission rules 1. Any medium 2. Must be framed with Mat or Mount 3. Must be able to be hung on a wall 4. Must be picked up in Library by 1st June 2018 5. Must be signed by the artist 6. All sales will go to the artist and are negotiated privately outside of the library 7. Artist must be diagnosed with Autism (no proof required)

Contact Beth Jacobs on 07767329624 or info@3ccaa.co.uk for more information

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

Kate’s skydive was one of the best experiences of her life

ARTS

BIG NEWS The latest sculpture to grace the Wessex Plinth at the front of the Salisbury Museum is Goliath by Johannes von Stumm. The museum’s communications officer, Louise Tunnard, says, “Goliath, which will be on display until 1 June, is made primarily from granite that Johannes found on a farm in the West Country. It bears the marks of its previous life alongside the vision that Johannes has for it. The fact that this new sculpture is rooted in the tradition of standing stones, beautifully reflects our archaeology collections, especially those relating to the landscape of Stonehenge.”

For more: www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

FUNDRAISING

RISE AND SHINE The children’s charity Over The Wall has teamed up with GoSkyDive and is calling for brave fundraisers to jump to, and jump for, a good cause.

Katie Langley, an Individual Giving Officer for the charity, which provides free Wiltshire based residential camps for children with serious illness, and a previous sky jumper herself explains, “GoSkyDive are specialists in first-time jumpers and will provide a morning of training in June, before taking fundraisers on a tandem 8 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

jump from up to 10,000 feet, allowing them to experience a 30-second freefall, whilst enjoying views of Salisbury.

“Personally, doing the skydive was one of the best experiences of my life and a huge personal achievement. The feeling of freefalling is like nothing else and the serene sense of calm when the parachute opens is probably the most peaceful experience I’ll ever have, in contrast to the pure adrenaline rush of the initial jump.”

For more: www.otw.org.uk

Johannes von Stumm (top) used West Country granite for his Goliath sculpture

Wheely green buses

STONEHENGE

ROCK AND ROLL Moving with the times, Stonehenge is to have a fleet of cleaner, greener buses to transport visitors to the 5,000 year old stone circle.

“Not only will the new vehicles be better for air quality but they are also quieter than the old buses, helping to minimise their impact on the historic landscape and provide a more comfortable ride for visitors along with stateof-the-art technology,” explains Jennifer Davies, head of operations at Stonehenge.

Among the first group of passengers were pupils from Amesbury Church of England Primary (pictured right) who were one of the six schools who helped name the vehicles, giving the fleet their motoring monikers of The Stone Ranger, Sarsen, Bluestone, Bowman, Aubrey and The Rock.

For more: www.english-heritage.org.uk

These cost a lot of dough!

COLLECTIBLES

COINING IT Stonehenge is among the Royal Mint’s new coins which are an A-Z of what makes this country great. Each 10p features a different letter representing and celebrating 26 different British landmarks and traditions.

Joining the Wiltshire rocks are James Bond, an English breakfast (turn to page 30 for our own celebratory breakfast feature ) and queueing.

To mark the occasion, the onsite Stonehenge café is offering a giant rock cake worth £3.25 in exchange to anyone bringing in the commemorative coin. Site marketing manager,

Jane Thomas says, “Each year we sell more than 30,000 giant rock cakes, which are baked on the premises, making them one of our best sellers.”

For more: www.english-heritage.org.uk

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AS O P US EN UA L “Bringing London Fashion to the Country for both Women & Men”

Come and discover a world of carefully selected British and International clothes, that we love and hope you will love too.

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Adventures in party-going

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

RIGHT ON TRACK

Graeme McNulty, Nikki McNulty, Suzanne Lorford and Barbara Gardiner Sandy Ince

Graeme and Nikki McNulty recently celebrated completing their extensive six-year refurbishment of The Greyhound Inn in Wilton.

The couple welcomed friends, family, and local businesses with fizz, canapĂŠs and music from Sticky Toffee Jazz.

Photos by John Rose www.johnrosephotography.com

Carmen Houghton and Paul Winter

Clare Morgan and Sarah Green

Pauline Church and Mike Millward Mike Millward, Pixie Royle and Nora Millward

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

Jenny Chapman, Nigel Cullimore and Sherie Williams Ellen

Daniel Webber, Karen Minihan and Chris Irvine

SOCIETY

PORTRAIT OF THE ARTISTS For the first time, Winchester hosted an exhibition by members of the prestigious Royal Society of British Artists. The show opened on 23 February at The Minster Gallery with the preview attended by many, including the artists Ken Howard and Fred Cuming. www.minstergallery.com

Mrs McLean, David McLean and Fred Cumin

Fred Cuming with Heidi and Bill Slee Rupert Scott, Ken Howard and Gilles Graham vvvv

Ken Howard and Lucia Davies

Mick Davies and Ines Graham

Music/theatre/film/more

SIGN OF THE TIMES

For the third year in succession, Fisherton Mill is showcasing work by nine specially selected artists from around the country for its Impress exhibition. One of those featured is printmaker Margaret Ashman, who read Physics at Oxford before retraining as an artist printmaker. Margaret depicts deaf models signing or dancing like Sweet Song as seen on this issue’s cover and In The Beginning I, on this page.

She says, “My imagery is carefully constructed from my own photography and borrowed elements from sources such as fabrics, garments, wallpaper, or books with an oriental influence. I strive for a spiritual elegance and simplicity in my finished works, in contrast to the lengthy, complicated process of making.”

Impress III is an exhibition of contemporary printmaking which, along with Margaret Ashman, features Ian MacCulloch, Sarah Duncan and Hetty Haxworth. Their work can be seen at Fisherton Mill, Salisbury until 19 May; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

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14 April – 14 May

Heather Small of M People brings her distinctive and beautifully powerful voice to City Hall Salisbury on 25 April; President of The Jane Austen Society, Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, talks about the Pride and Prejudice author at Arundells; The former Kid In America performs her Here Come The Aliens tour in Salisbury on 22 April

Exhibitions

and dance to have happened. £7.50. Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

U N TI L 2 1 AP RI L

RICHARD GOWER Richard’s paintings have attracted huge acclaim with his work also in the Royal Collection. McNeill Gallery; www.mcneillgallery.com U N TI L 2 8 AP RI L

ELLIPSE Eleanor Bartlett continues her on-going series describing elemental form, painted with black tar. Young Gallery; www. younggallerysalisbury.co.uk U N TI L 1 2 M AY

TOWARDS MUSIC Artist Brian Graham takes us on a fascinating visual journey, exploring how he imagines the beginnings of music-making

U N TI L 1 3 MAY

JOANNA STILL Shaftesbury potter Joanna has concentrated on producing a colourful range of decorative domestic earthenware, refining and developing her technique of throwing and painting.

Messums Wiltshire; www.messumswiltshire.com U N TI L 1 9 MAY

IMPRESS III Fisherton Mill’s third exhibition of contemporary printmaking showcasing work by nine specially selected artists from around the country including Londonbased printmaker Margaret Ashman, who depicts deaf

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

models signing and dancing, and whose work can be seen on our cover, and Bristol artist Sarah Duncan whose prints inspired by astronomy and microscopy. Turn to page 15 for more on Margaret Ashman. Fisherton Mill; www.fishertonmill.co.uk UNTIL 26 AUG UST

SALISBURY SNAPPED A wonderful photographic journey depicting both major events and the changing face of our city.

Salisbury Museum; www. salisburymuseum.org.uk UNTIL 30 NO VEMBER

1918: WAR AND PEACE A powerfully moving exhibition tracing the events of the last year of World War I from the perspective of both

Wiltshire and Berkshire regimental soldiers.

Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum; www.thewardrobe.org.uk 21 AP R IL – 5 M AY

COLIN BROWN Colin, whose ability and industriousness made his name on the international graphic illustration, has now turned his hand to art full time. Gallery21; www.gallery21.co.uk 1 – 31 M AY

ART EXHIBITION 3 Counties Counselling and Autism Assessment are the organisers of an exhibition featuring autistic artists.

Salisbury Library; www.3ccaa.co.uk

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

Theatre/ Dance /Film 1 8 – 2 1 AP RI L

BLACK MEN WALKING From the Royal Court Theatre comes a powerful, poetic and acclaimed play written by the Yorkshire rapper, Testament, about ramblers, racism and the meaning of geographical roots. £13.50. The Salberg; www.salisburyplayhouse.com 1 9 APRI L – 5 M AY

MOONFLEET A new musical based on the J Meade Falkner’s classic book, which is set in 18th century Dorset and tells the story of adventure on the high seas. £27-£11.50. Salisbury Playhouse; www.salisburyplayhouse.com

Richard Gower, whose charming Umbrellas, can be seen at the McNeill Gallery, also has work in the Royal Collection

2 6 – 2 8 AP RI L

A DANGEROUS WOMAN

By Manjeet Man, this tells the story of one woman’s struggle to carve her own path in a family of six women – women who are both her allies and her enemies.

7.45pm, £13.50. The Salberg; www.salisburyplayhouse.com 1 0 – 1 2 M AY

CRIMES UNDER THE SUN Inspired by Agatha Christie, Hitchcock’s 39 Steps, and film noir, just four actors play multiple characters with a plot that races along in a murderous romp. £9-£13.50. The Salberg; www.salisburyplayhouse.com 1 0 – 1 2 M AY

MACBETH The multi award-winning Mark Bruce Company presents a striking dance theatre adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, a tragic descent into the darkest sides of human nature. £11.50£19.50. Salisbury Playhouse; www.salisburyplayhouse.com

Boothby Graffoe. 7pm, £32.

City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk 2 0 A PRI L

JASON MANFORD His latest Muddle Class tour tells the tale of working class boy’s confusing journey into middle classness. 7.30pm, £29.50. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk 2 1 A PRI L

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC Even founding band member Mick Fleetwood recognises these guys as the world’s leading Fleetwood Mac tribute act. 8pm, £33.50/£23.50. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk 2 2 A PRI L

Music/ Comedy

KIM WILDE With five-star reviews from The Guardian for her latest work, and the spirit of the Eighties, aliens and anthemic Kids In America to her name, this much-praised Here Come The Aliens tour promises to be stellar. 8pm, £34.50-£27. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

1 8 APRI L

2 5 A PRI L

BARENAKED LADIES With over 14 million albums sold, Canadian rockers Barenaked Ladies promote the release of their 15th studio album, Fake Nudes. With great support from the surreal singer and comic

HEATHER SMALL Post M People, which was one of the most seminal dance bands of the 90s, Heather has provided a distinctive soundtrack on everything from the 60th anniversary of VE Day in

Trafalgar Square to the official ceremony marking the handover of the Olympic Games from Beijing to London. 7pm, £34.50. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk 27 AP R IL

PHILL JUPITUS: JUPLICITY Stand-up comedian, poet, improviser, and TV stalwart Phill Jupitus provides over an hour of tales, laughs and diversions. Read Phill confess his sins on page 18.

8pm, £15. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk 28 AP R IL

MET OPERA: MASSENET’S CENDRILLON Massenet’s enchanting opera, based on the fairytale of Cinderella, premieres at the Met conducted by Bertrand de Billy, directed by Laurent Pelly, and starring Joyce DiDonato. 5.55pm, £17. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk 1 MAY

ED BYRNE – SPOILER ALERT Are we filled with righteous anger at a world gone wrong or are we all just a bunch of spoilt whiny brats? Byrne takes this question, turns it upside down and shakes it until the funny falls out. 8pm, £24. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk 3 MAY

BEETHOVEN’S MOONLIGHT SONATA

Dominic Seligman and Clara Rodriguez perform an evening of piano music on Sir Edward Heath’s famous Steinway piano.

The duo will also explore the ethereal beauty of French music, performing pieces by Debussy, Ravel and Poulenc. 7pm, £27.

Arundells; www.arundells.org

Family fun UNTIL 3 S EP T EM B ER

PREDATORS Utilising some pretty darn impressive animatronic technology, this fascinating display offers extremely close encounters with everything from a life-sized hunting great white shark to a super-sized Venus flytrap. Price is included with standard admission.

Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk 16 AP R I L

PENGUINS Inspired by a true story, two male penguins living at Central Park Zoo raise a chick. £7.50.

Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk 1 MAY

FAMILY EXPLORATION TRAIL Explore Mompesson House and find the fascinating hidden objects using a series of clever clues. 11am-4.30pm, price is included in admission.

Mompesson House; www.nationaltrust.org.uk w

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ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

SEVEN DEADLY SINS SLOTH: What should you be really putting your back into right now?

When you are in the arts, you should always be working and creating. I do a lot of different things. Visual art, music, poetry, stand-up comedy, acting. I should be doing more of all of them.

Don’t mess with Ed Byrne when he delivers his Spoiler Alert on 1 May

Other

£10. Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

16 – 2 1 APRI L

3 MAY

SQUAWK A celebration of gender and sexual diversity – full details on page 20. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk 19 AP RI L

CONFESSIONS OF A CHRONIC JANEITE A fascinating talk from Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, a former British ambassador to Israel, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan, who is now president of The Jane Austen Society. 7pm, £15.

Arundells; www.arundells.org 22 AP RI L

ST GEORGE’S DAY A family event around the Market Place, Guildhall Square and Guildhall, with music, fair rides, workshops and puppet shows. www.salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk 27 – 2 9 APRI L

PERSIAN RUGS DISPLAY A stunning collection of fine Persian rugs, runners and kilimsace from Bakhtiyar on display at Medieval Hall, Cathedral Close. 10am-5pm, free. www.bakhtiyar.com 2 M AY

BEES IN THE CITY Stuart Roberts, a Salisbury based entomologist, will reveal how city gardens, allotments, parks and waste ground support a wide variety of these important, but often overlooked, species. 6.30pm,

FRANCIS PRYOR Archaeologist and Time Team regular talks about his latest book, Paths to the Past: Encounters with Britain’s Hidden Landscapes, with a Q&A hosted by Phil Harding.

7pm, £3. Salisbury Waterstones; www.waterstones.com 4 MAY

VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT OPEN DAY The chance to find out about volunteering for the Knoll Gardens Foundation charity, which promotes sustainable, wildlife friendly gardening. 10am-2pm, free. www.knollgardensfoundation.org 7 MAY

TISBURY BROCANTE Tisbury hosts, for the third time, a fantastic all-day festival for the selling, browsing and enjoyment of all things vintage, antique, bargain and beautiful. www.tisburybrocante.co.uk 1 0 MAY

RECEPTION AND AUCTION Lieutenant Paddy Waring RN, who became a paraplegic after a crash landing in Singapore in 1963 bequeathing many of his effects to the INSPIRE Foundation.

Between 2-6pm there is a public sale, admission £2.50 and between 6.30pm-8.30pm, a charity drinks reception followed by an auction.

Turn to page 59 for more. Rose & Crown Hotel, Harnham, Salisbury. www.inspire-foundation.org.uk

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

In our regular mini Q&A with visiting and local performers, PHILL JUPITUS bares his wicked soul LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after today?

Lady Agnew of Lochnaw by John Singer Sargent. It’s important to clarify that it is just the painting that I feel this for. That a few brushstrokes of oil paint on canvas can make me feel the way that work does, is a testament to his talent. Or, my weirdness. We shouldn’t discount that.

GREED: What should you really be cutting down on?

Books. I can’t stop buying/ hoarding books. They are magnificent. Just bound sheets of paper full of ideas or images or just words. The battery never runs out, and you never lose signal.

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

My kedgeree is pretty amazing if I say so myself.

However, when you make food for yourself there’s less chance of pigging out as you have all the admin of the cooking.

WRATH: What/who makes you angry?

Capitalism. Corporate greed.

Mass indolence. The Olympic Stadium. It’s personal.

ENVY: Who are you really jealous of?

Anybody with a driven work ethic, and anybody who has a radio show. I used to really enjoy doing the 6 Music breakfast show, and then I realised that if I stayed, then all my other skills would atrophy. Since leaving the BBC, I have acted in seven shows (three in the West End) done two national stand-up comedy tours, about 20 shows at The Edinburgh Fringe, three UK music tours singing with The Blockheads, The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band and then The Idiot Bastard Band, written a book, made a kids’ TV series, toured Europe, Australia and New Zealand, made my Shakespearian debut, had my first art exhibition and returned to poetry. Now that might seem a lot, but if I had a driven work ethic, there would have been twice as much stuff on this list.

PRIDE: Proudest achievement?

My daughters.

Phill Jupitus is appearing at Salisbury Arts Centre on 27 April; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk

SANDY INCE “STICKY TOFFEE JAZZ” A clever collection of jazz, swing and modern with a big Vintage Vibe.

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F E AT U R E

INTERIORS SPECIAL

Clockwise from top: Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara in Carol; singer Grace Petrie; the charming Penguins; performer Edalia Day

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

F E S T I VA L

ARTS

VIVE LA DIFFÉRENCE! SQUAWK is an innovative, exciting and ground-breaking programme of entertainment, unique to Salisbury, created to celebrate gender diversity in all its beautiful forms

W

By SA R A H MOOL L A

e’ve got the Cathedral, the Magna Carta, we can lay claim to Stonehenge and the revival of the Great Bustard, but Salisbury can also be very proud of another unique offering, the SQUAWK festival. The Salisbury Queer Arts Weekender, to give this remarkable event its full name, is back for a second year at the Salisbury Arts Centre with a colourful programme of theatre, music, comedy, cabaret and discussion, and this time for a whole week.

One of the many highlights celebrating LGBTQIA, which stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and allies, is a talk and question and answer session from human and gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell. Peter, who has been a pioneer on the issues of rights, democracy, civil liberties, LGBT equality and global justice since 1967, tells us, “I’m honoured to speak at Salisbury Queer Arts Weekender. It is really important that LGBT+ ideas and

debates are not confined to London and other big cities. I am looking forward to engaging with the Salisbury audience in the Q and A that will take place after my talk.”

His praise for the Salisbury festival is echoed by the performer Edalia Day, whose light-hearted, dark humoured comedy cabaret Too Pretty To Punch, explores of international trans visibility and self-acceptance. Edalia says, “I’m really excited to be performing at as part of SQUAWK. As a trans person it can often feel like you’re not allowed in all sorts of areas of life, so it’s fantastic when there are celebrations of LGBT people and values like this. It sends a positive message of support through the whole community. I think all towns and cities should have queer festivals like this.”

There’s also a fascinating look back in Prejudice and Pride, at the hidden LGBTQ histories connected to National Trust properties delivered by Tom Freshwater, who tells us about the fascinating project on page 22.

The festival opens with Penguins by Prime Theatre, a production suitable for ages 3+, and based on the true story of two male penguins raising a chick. There’s also an exploration of New Queer Cinema, which emerged in North America in 1990 with films such as Boys Don’t Cry, Brokeback Mountain and Carol, all challenging previous stereotypical portrayals. Plus there’s a screening of God’s Own Country, the film they’re calling “the British Brokeback Mountain”, and set in the heart of rural Yorkshire following the intense relationship between farm labourer Johnny and Romanian migrant Gheorghe.

Music is on the bill as well from folk singer, songwriter Grace Petrie who delivers a unique take on life, love and politics, and an appearance by the Bristol-based singer, performer and composer Ellie Showering, who says, “I believe that SQUAWK, and events like it, are still vital. Although the fight for equality is far from over, there has been a tangible shift in the last decade which has increased visibility for members of the Queer community. Salisbury Queer Arts Weekender will undoubtedly benefit and enrich Salisbury’s cultural development. Bring on the Queers!”

I THINK ALL TOWNS AND CITIES SHOULD HAVE QUEER FESTIVALS LIKE THIS

Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell

For more: SQUAWK runs from 16-21 April and takes place at Salisbury Arts Centre; www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk

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ARTS

F E S T I VA L

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK

A

THESE

STORIES WE FOUND HAVE BEEN

PUSHED

TO ONE SIDE AND OVERLOOKED AS THEY ARE

Uncovering the untold LGBTQ stories of National Trust properties

By T OM F R E SH WAT E R

s part of the SQUAWK programme, national programmes manager for the National Trust Tom Freshwater will be talking about the uncovering the hidden LGBTQ histories connected to the organisation’s historic properties in his Prejudice and Pride presentation on 17 April. Here he tells us the story behind the stories…

“The National Trust exists to look after special places, forever, for everyone – so it is right that we explore LGBTQ heritage.

Prejudice and Pride in 2017 was the Trust’s first time to gather together stories of LGBTQ heritage. We used the 50th anniversary in 2017 of the Sexual Offences Act 1967 as a way to find ways to share stories from around England and Wales with our visitors.

These tales we found have been pushed to one side and overlooked as they are hard to talk about but without them, a deeper appreciation of many places will be lost. It is important to note that these histories are not just for LGBTQ audiences today: their lives are just as much a part of our national story as any monarch, worker or thinker through the ages.

Also we are conscious to not project the modern labels of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender back into the past: this is not how people would have described themselves. We have chosen, like Historic England, to use the academic term queer to describe people who expressed same-sex desire and love outside the so-called normal conventions of their time.

This allows us to consider their actions and words, their connections and impacts on the world, rather than worrying about definitions and instead explore how they were able to live through times when their love and relationships had to be hidden.

It has been a learning process for the National Trust, and the teams of staff and volunteers at our places and around the country. We worked hard 22 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

to find academic research partners experienced in this field, the University of Leicester Research Centre for Museums and Galleries, and in our wider programme we had contributions from noted author Sarah Waters who wrote Fingersmith, and the broadcaster Clare Balding. Our staff and volunteer teams chose to attend 17 pride festivals in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

We worked with national partners such as The National Archives and National Portrait Gallery to collaborate on parts of our programme.”

HARD TO TALK ABOUT

For more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

THE STORY OF WILLIAM JOHN BANKES (1786-1855) AT KINGSTON LACY IN DORSET At first glance, this is an elegant property nestled into the landscape that contains an extremely high quality collection of paintings, perhaps like many other fine country houses. However, the reason the property appears as it does today is largely down to William John and his life.

In 1833, he was arrested for an indiscretion with a soldier in London outside parliament. He was acquitted thanks to letters of support of Duke of Wellington and other influential friends – but he largely retired from public life and retreated to his house at Kingston Lacy.

Here he worked with architect Charles Barry to transform the house to a new design.

In 1841, William John was then arrested for indecently exposing himself with a soldier of the Foot Guards in Green Park, as stated in the arrest warrant. He fled the country, having made over his estates to his younger brother George.

From his exile in Europe, where he lived for the rest of his life, he continued to collect and add to what we see today at Kingston Lacy. He had to enjoy this from a distance, and his detailed correspondence survives.

He may have made a final secret visit to the house in 1854 shortly before his death, but we cannot be sure.

EL FR IV EE ER Y D

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ENGLISH HERITAGE

S

To celebrate St George’s Day, SARAH MOOLLA explores her own genetic roots with the help of a simple DNA test

aint George happened to be a Roman soldier of Greek origin who was born in Turkey and raised in Palestine. He was made the patron saint of England in 1327 by King Edward III, despite George or his dragons, never having set foot here (a bit like those three lions about to grace the England football shirts!).

George must have hesitated when asked where he was from – and I know how he feels. Aside, from my slightly nomadic upbringing (London, Swansea, Bristol, Liverpool, London again then back to the West Country), it’s the question of heritage I find a puzzler. My father is a South African Indian, and my mother from Dublin, Ireland. They met and married in London, had three children, and despite my father’s dark skin, we are all very white in colour. Yet due to my parents’ divorce, we are all more familiar with our South African roots than our Irish connections.

So the opportunity to do a DNA test was utterly 24 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

IT’S A

WONDERFUL WAY TO

CONNECT WITH THE DIFFERENT GENERATIONS

irresistible, and the results totally fascinating.

But before we get to my very own episode of Who Do You Think You Are?, we find out why such tests are on the rise. David Nicholson, who launched his Frome-based business Living DNA in 2016, is an expert in DNA testing and also owns the parent company DNA Worldwide which has been running since 1999, suggests, “The questions that societies through the ages always ask is, what is our purpose; why are we here; and how did we get there? Held within our DNA code is the history of humanity, so the relatively low cost of tests today has opened the science up, and is effectively a key to help unlock these mysteries.

“We’ve developed algorithms that can map a person’s DNA mix across 80 world regions, so our latest tests offer twice the detail of other ancestry tests.”

I knew the test outcome would be interesting, but I was not prepared for the breadth and depth of analysis that a single swab of saliva could bring.

The Living DNA test not only covers the family line ancestry, but also thanks to the mitochondrial

DNA TESTING

Sarah with her father

DNA test (mtDNA test) it includes the motherline, and there is the fatherline ancestry if you are male. The ancestry is put into context revealing, not only the breakdown of my genetic story, but the migration patterns of my ancestors dating back 80,000 years. This placed me as Haplogroup H1, subclade H1bk.

But it was the more immediate family ancestry, a DNA mix from the last 10 generations, that really gripped me. At first glance it confirms what I already knew, I am half Irish, and half Asian, so no great surprise there. But then there’s breakdown within that – 16.4 per cent Sindh,

WHERE DO WE THINK WE ARE? David Nicholson, co-founder and managing director at Living DNA, takes a look at the migration history of Wiltshire The South England (Wiltshire and Hampshire) genetic signature reflects the European heritage of this region. Remarkably, we can still detect the DNA of nomadic Stone Age people that first settled Britain at the end of the last ice age - the same signature that can also be found in western Germany, north western France, and Belgium today. These people arrived tracking the new post-Ice Age wildlife and building semipermanent dwellings near lakes and rivers.

Over thousands more years of prehistory they were joined by further European migrants who often bought in new technology with them farming, bronze, and iron.

The Romans left little genetic legacy when compared to the Anglo-Saxons. The genes of

LIFESTYLE

Sarah’s breakdown of her genetic heritage

Sarah with her own children

this region are possibly 10-40% derived from these Germanic invaders who later settled into kingdoms, with much of the south of the country being a part of the Kingdom of Wessex which united England and drove back the Vikings. The subsequent Norman invaders politically transformed the region, and the next thousand years have seen England and Great Britain at the heart of global networks.

South England’s proximity to both the maritime world and the mainland of Europe has helped maintained these connections that first flourished 12,000 years ago.

Stone Age people settled here around 12,000 years ago after the last ice age (Conneler et al 2012, 1006). These continental hunter gatherers arrived to hunt the wildlife that flourished as the severe arctic tundras receded (The British Museum), leaving genetic signatures that can also be found today in Western Germany, Northwestern France, and Belgium.

which is one of the four provinces of Pakistan; 9.4 per cent Pashtun – which is a mix of Afghan and Iranian and known to be as a race very pale in colour; and intriguingly 2.5 per cent Chinese.

But it even breaks down my Irish heritage into regions, revealing most of this side of my ancestry originated from the north of Ireland and the southwest Scotland. It slides mainly across the west of the country, leaving a trail of Aberdeenshire, South Yorkshire, North and South Wales, Cornwall, and the occasional zig zag across the counties, in my genetic make up. What’s even more exciting, the lifetime access means, as science evolves, my results can be updated.

I show my father the results, who is equally fascinated, as there are tales in the DNA findings that unlock stories from his own past. My own children are thrilled by their cosmopolitan make-up. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the different generations, and open up a dialogue.

The test also reveals I have a lot more in common with St George than I thought – historians say a patron saint did not have to be from the country they were born in – they just needed to embody the characteristics the kingdom wanted to project to the outside world. It would seem my DNA tells a wonderful story of the diversity, migration and acceptance of the people of England. And gives me the right to say, I am proud to be English.

For more: Users pay a one-off fee of £120 for a swab kit that arrives and is returned via post. Typically, the results take 8-12 weeks to arrive and come with lifetime access to the online reports. www.my.livingdna.com

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

Delicious Indian street food in relaxed surroundings

The Greyhound Inn at Wilton

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Wonderful food • Local produce Relaxed atmosphere • Cask ales • Fine wines Accommodation • Bed & Breakfast For accommodation and food reservations please call

01722 744050 4, Market Place, Wilton, Salisbury SP2 0HT info@greyhoundinnwilton • greyhoundinnwilton.com

90 Crane Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2QD 01722 329700 cafediwali.com

La fosse

AT CRANBORNE Restaurant and Rooms

JOIN US AT OUR SUPPER CLUBS Our monthly popular Supper Clubs are a different dining experience from our normal a la carte dinners. Featuring a specially selected set menu, each month there are dishes from a different country, served at 7/7.30pm. You’re invited to join us for a drink prior to the meal where you can mingle with your fellow guests and relax after a hard day at work. Let us take care of you and serve up a delicious meal.

UPCOMING SUPPER CLUB DATES Wednesday 25th April 2018: West African Wednesday 23rd May 2018: Vegetarian and Vegan Thursday 28th June 2018: Hook, Line and Sinker £27.50 per person for three courses with cup of coffee/tea.

SPECIAL EVENT Thursday 7th June 2018: Special Gin Dinner Enjoy a three course dinner with different gins incorporated into each dish. Each course is served with the matching gin (25ml) and a variety of mixers to choose from. £38.95 (requires a £10 deposit). 48 hours cancelation policy.

The Square, Cranborne BH21 5PR • 01725 517604 www.la-fosse.com • lafossemail@gmail.com

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

A new look for Mr Eddy’s at Exbury Gardens

GARDEN PRODUCE Searcys, the award-winning hospitality group who work with many historical properties including Blenheim Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral, is the new provider of Hampshire’s Exbury Gardens catering services.

Their onsite Mr Eddy’s Café & Restaurant has relaunched at the same time for a fresh new look to suit its fresh new menu which will include the best of British produce.

Lionel de Rothschild, chairman of Exbury Gardens, says, “Searcys is a strong British brand operating at several iconic locations throughout the UK. Their focus on excellence and attention to detail make them an ideal choice and gives us access to an unparalleled breadth of experience to develop quality and innovative catering at Exbury.”

For more: www.exbury.co.uk

Viscount and Viscountess Weymouth get their tea

LION’S APPETITE A brand new £1.5m restaurant and coffee house has opened at Longleat.

The Chameleon Tree, which gets its name from a tree-like structure in the centre of the building, will provide the park’s visitors with an entirely revamped menu.

Longleat food and beverage manager, Paul Jackson, explains, “The new restaurant can cater for up 420 people inside at any one time – that is a 40 per cent increase of the previous maximum capacity. It will offer a selection of freshly-made meals; including rotisserie

ALE AND HEARTY! The Victoria & Albert in Netherhampton has been voted 2018 Pub of the Year by members of the Salisbury & South Wilts branch of the Campaign for Real Ale. Landlady Maggie Scott, who has been at the Victoria & Albert for 15 years and runs the pub with her sons Taylor and Duncan, says, “It is fantastic to win this award and wonderful to get such recognition from CAMRA members. Although we have a solid core of local customers, we also have people who come to the Victoria & Albert from as far away as Cornwall and Kent.”

The CAMRA chairman Derek Blackshaw adds, “CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide describes the Victoria & Albert as ‘quintessential England’ and that is absolutely correct. They serve a good selection of real ales, which are properly looked after, and there is always a friendly welcome. No wonder our members rate this classic pub so highly.”

For more: www.victoriaandalbert.org Derek Blackshaw presents the CAMRA award to landlady Maggie Scott and her sons Taylor (centre) and Duncan (right)

chicken, slow-cooked meats, exotic tagines, classic favourites and healthy salads.”

Alongside The Chameleon Tree, there is also a brand new coffee house staffed by a team of baristas to freshly hand-make the coffee. “By integrating the two areas, we’re able to offer visitors a much more seamless experience and provide them with additional flexibility,” says Paul. “The new layout will also significantly decrease queuing and waiting at busy periods.”

For more: www.longleat.co.uk

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R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Haunch of Venison SARAH MOOLLA unearths another world and a wonderful spirit in Salisbury’s oldest and most haunted pub

T

he Haunch is a legend. A boozy, charming, slightly gnarly, living legend. Built in 1320, it feels as old as the surrounding Wiltshire hills and as ancient as the Cathedral stones.

To drink in here is like toasting the past, it’s a celebration of Jacobean jack-the-lads, thirsty Tudors and Victorian vagabonds. A seemingly haphazard collection of nooks, crannies, ghosts, a pewter top bar, open fires and a cheating gambler’s mummified hand. There’s also the horse’s box which was the snug where the ladies would sit, and secret tunnels leading directly to the Cathedral.

There so much folklore, so many myths, tales and stories surrounding this distinctive pub, including the belief Churchill and Eisenhower secretly drank here while planning the D-Day landings, that everything else is secondary. I’ll be honest here and admit, while I love this place for good red wine, a decent gossip and for the slightly spooky atmosphere, it never occurs to me to eat here. So big is the pub’s past, it eclipses what it can offer today.

So when owner Ilia Klekovkin shows us to the restaurant section, which used to be a brothel, I’m amazed. Unlike the cosy, chaotic crush of downstairs, the upstairs is spacious, airy, high-ceilinged but still endearingly wonky. The sunlight dapples on the heavy oak, sea-salted beams, the ornately carved wood panelling and the original hearth, and from our table, we have a delightfully fitting and picture perfect view of St Thomas’s Church and its graveyard.

IT IS A HENRY VIII OF A MEAL – RICH, DEEP, HEAVY, PROPERLY SUBSTANTIAL AND UTTERLY SATISFYING

The menu choices are good, solid pub fare but with grown-up aspirations, like pigeon breast with creamed leek and balsamic berry jus starter, and many of the mains feature its namesake meat such as slow-cooked New Forest venison and red wine casserole with crusty homemade bread. What’s striking about the options is that they sound contemporary and yet also belong to a bygone 1320 era. It’s a clever, subtle and effective touch.

To begin, my glazed goats cheese with beetroots and sweet and sour aubergine, is a hearty, earthy and pungent dish, while my dinning companion’s homemade fishcakes are fresh, succulent and crispy with the fennel slaw delivering a sliver of sharpness.

As the Haunch serves food all day, this could have worked beautifully as a light bite, but we are in for the long haul and, on Ilia’s advice, I choose the house special of the trio of Hampshire venison in the form of loin, pulled haunch and faggot, with crushed Jersey Royal potatoes, roots and venison jus. Accompanied with sides of emerald green seasonal greens and ruby red sweet potato fries, this is not a dish for the faint hearted, it is an Henry VIII of a meal – rich, deep, heavy, properly substantial and utterly satisfying. My companion was more refined but equally delighted with her fresh fish of the day red mullet option, served with Jersey Royal potatoes, cherry tomatoes, capers, samphire and mushrooms. Again the portions are fit-for-a-king generous, the fish has flashfried crispy skin, the flesh is coastal fresh-tasting, and the sides add vibrant colour and a flavoursome balance.

At this point we are both feeling as roly-poly as the aforementioned much-married monarch, but the Haunch restaurant has such a welcoming, bewitching and seductive vibe, we don’t want to leave. So instead we savour puddings – my tart green apple and sweet rhubarb crumble with vanilla custard is a whopper of a homemade treat, and my companion’s cheesecake is a slab of velvety milk chocolate mousse-like loveliness. Now we know about the dream of a restaurant upstairs, the Haunch of Venison will be our regular haunt.

DINING DETAILS Haunch of Venison, 1 Minster Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 411313; www.haunchpub.co.uk Opening hours Monday-Thursday 11am-11pm, FridaySaturday 11am-12am, Sunday 11am-10pm Food served all day every day 12pm-9pm non-stop Head chef Sean Richardson Type of food served Traditional hearty British food Covers 40 and booking is recommended Prices Starters: £4 – £8 Mains: £12 – £20 Desserts: £5 – £7 Vegetarian and vegan choices Good selection Disabled access Yes but with limited toilet facilities Drinks Decent selection of wines, lagers, ciders and stout and the real ales, which has earned them an entry in the prestigious Good Beer Guide, plus there are more than 78 whiskies to choose

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a FULL ENGLISH In honour of St George’s Day SARAH MOOLLA learns the secrets of a decent fry up made the Salisbury way

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

ENGLISH BREAKFAST

Good to go ciabatta style

D

o those three little words – all day breakfast – make your heart beat just that little bit faster? You’re not the only one; as a country we love our English breakfast so much that its image was recently etched on to a commemorative 10p coin (see page 9 for the full story).

In the beginning, breakfast was a meal established in the Middle Ages when it consisted of mainly ale and bread. The more elaborate start to the day made an appearance in Georgian times, when the wealthy set to impress with unhurried, leisurely affairs with plenty of silver on show and along with eggs and bacon, which was first cured in the early 18th century, the feast also included offal, kidneys, tongue and kippers.

The popular fry-up as we know it took shape and gained popularity when the emerging middle class Victorians copied the customs of the gentry including this opulent morning meal. The working classes of the same era, then adopted and adapted it as the long hours and physical demands of the Industrial Revolution work meant a hearty meal first thing was a necessity.

These days, due to both health awareness and time constraints, it’s a meal we associate with holidays, weekends and breaks away. But what do the chefs, cooks and owners of our local luxury hotels, country inns, guesthouses, B&Bs, cafes and restaurants consider to be the true English way to a fry up? We grill them...

Any fat required?

A properly seasoned griddle requires little or no oil. We slather our Portabello mushrooms with butter, though.

How do most people like their eggs?

Fried are the most popular, and free range.

Toast or bread?

Toast.

Hash browns on the side?

We don’t offer them due to limited cooking facilities but I love them.

Do baked beans belong?

Most people think so. Can’t stand them, personally.

To black pudding or not to black pudding?

I think most people would forego the black pudding. A little goes a long way.

How do the tomatoes come?

Fresh griddled with some extra virgin olive oil and fresh thyme.

Who’s bringing home the bacon?

The best quality from Prices in Fordingbridge. We use back bacon but streaky would be better for the crispy bacon fans.

Top sausages?

Homemade pork and leek from Prices in Fordingbridge, and they sell them in the Downton branch too.

Is there a place for trends like avocados?

I love a mashed avo, but they’re too unreliable to have on the menu, and definitely not local!

Any drink recommendations?

Whatever takes your fancy.

What condiments?

All of them – salt, pepper, ketchup, brown sauce, mustard and herbs to use as you see fit. We serve our bacon ciabatta rolls with locally made Pig ‘n’ Pickles tomato and red pepper relish. Brown sauce, and this has to be HP, is the next most popular choice.

How can we make it healthier?

Use no fat in the cooking and mop any residual fat produced from the meat with absorbent paper roll.

MY OWN FAVOURITE IS

SCRAMBLED EGG WITH SOME MELTED CHEESE

CAROLINE BROMILOW OWNER OF THE BOROUGH CAFÉ

“The writer, Somerset Maugham said that, ‘To eat well in England you should have breakfast three times a day.’ This would suggest that the Full English has been a reliable option in the choice of English culinary ‘fayre’ for many years before we got our act together on the food front and has remained little changed for several decades.”

Bake, grill or fry?

Griddling is the most practical option in our café, although at home I will use a combination of all three.

The Borough Café, 70 The Borough, Downton, Salisbury. tel: 01725 238083; www.theboroughcafe.co.uk

MAXINE KEIGHLEY, OWNER OF CROSS KEYS RESTAURANT

“We serve breakfast all day, and because we believe breakfast should be served your way, we offer pick and mix style.”

How are you cooking it?

We use a chargrill where we can as it lets the fat drop through, making our breakfasts as healthy as possible.

Eggs, are they poached, scrambled, or fried?

As we cook to order you can have your eggs your way, but my own favourite is scrambled egg with some melted cheese.

Posh, seeded or sliced white?

Thick sliced white is the most popular, although we offer wholemeal and a multiseeded bloomer for the more health conscious.

Is the hash brown too American for you?

It may be an American addition but, while we also offer chips, we sell far more hash browns.

Do baked beans belong on the plate?

Yes, every day, but they do have to be Heinz.

Black pudding?

Personally no way. But the amount we sell suggests that the rest of Salisbury loves it. w

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ENGLISH BREAKFAST Tinned, real, roasted or grilled tomatoes?

We used fresh tomatoes and lightly cook them on our chargrill.

Bacon?

It is back bacon, unsmoked and crispy. If you want it extra crispy just ask.

Sausages?

For breakfast I’d always recommend just straight pork ones. They also make great sausage sandwiches too.

Mushrooms?

Button every time.

Tea, coffee or juice to wash it down with?

I take my coffee straight and black but we offer all the variations.

Our loose-leaf tea is the popular drink with breakfast.

Preferred seasonings?

We have over 20 different sauces. I have BBQ sauce with honey on mine.

Can it be adapted into an evening meal, or is that just plain wrong?

Maybe depends what time you get up. We sell it all day for a reason – people want it.

Any recommended healthy variations?

The seafood omelette for a dieter’s delight.

The Cross Key Restaurant, 1 Cross Keys Chequer, Queens Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 320933; www.crosskeysshopping.co.uk

DEBORAH FOX OWNER OF FISHERTON MILL, WHICH HOUSES THE GALLERY CAFÉ

many bad memories of gristly sausages as a child.

Button, tinned or flat mushrooms?

Portabellas – fried or roasted with olive oil, seasoning and garlic.

Is there a place for trends like avocados?

Not a fan to be honest but each to their own.

What to drink with it?

If it is early, tea, but a late lazy one has to include a coffee.

What speciality condiments you can suggest?

Beetroot ketchup is a bit of a twist on the brand leader, and very delicious.

Can it be adapted into an evening meal?

Yes! Yes! Yes! Where would our family be without this fall back position mid-week?

How can we make it healthier?

It is really healthy if you go easy on the oil used and ensure half the plate is full of veggies such as spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms. Eggs offer great protein and you can always swop the meaty sausages for Quorn.

TO EAT WELL IN ENGLAND YOU SHOULD HAVE BREAKFAST THREE TIMES A DAY

“The importance of the English breakfast is that it can represent family time. It is usually a shared meal with friends or family and not rushed. It doesn’t happen that often so is something to treasure when it does.”

How to cook it – cook, grill or fry?

A combination probably – grilled bacon and sausages, fried eggs and mushrooms are a must so you need to use at least two options. Plus maybe roasted tomatoes…..?

What fat are you using?

A light vegetable or sunflower oil.

Poached, scrambled, boiled or fried eggs?

They all have their individual appeal – fried with a full breakfast for me, but scrambled with some smoked salmon on an English muffin or plain and simple boiled eggs and soldiers.

Is there bread with that?

Sourdough toast.

Any room for a hash brown or two?

If it is a good homemade one, then yes. Mass produced?

Then a definite no.

Do baked beans belong?

Yes – especially if homemade.

To black pudding or not to black pudding?

Not for me thank you.

What about tomatoes?

Roasted or grilled Heritage tomatoes are the bees’ knees.

Any preference to your bacon?

Free range, back, thick sliced and unsmoked if I was being very choosy.

Sausages – top suggestions?

For me Quorn or veggie sausages, not that I’m vegetarian, but too 32 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Tomatoes are not just for ketchup

Fisherton Mill, 108 Fisherton Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 500200; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

NIKKI MCNULTY OF PROPRIETOR AND CHEF AT THE GREYHOUND INN

“There is nothing better than serving a traditional full English to a guest from abroad. I think that a good English can showcase the best of what British farmers have to offer.”

Are you cooking, grilling or frying?

I prefer to grill, so the ingredients can speak for themselves and not be covered in oil.

Any fats?

A touch of olive oil to get things going, but you can’t bet finishing with a knob of butter or two.

Are the eggs coming sunny side up?

I love a poached egg, although most of our guests go for the traditional runny yolk fried egg.

Toast or bread or fried?

At the Greyhound we use white crusty bloomer as well as a nutty granary loaf.

Is the hash brown welcome in Wilton, or is that just too American?

We welcome and love a good homemade hash brown here.

Do baked beans belong?

No. Unless its teatime with the kids.

Is the black pudding making an appearance?

Only black pudding from Stornaway, the best this country has in our opinion.

Will the tomatoes be tinned or real?

Roasted baby tomatoes still on the vine, so sweet and delicious.

Is the bacon streaky?

Any way it comes is good as long as it is thick cut and smoked.

Sausages suggestions?

You have to go along way to beat our local pork, honey and watercress sausages. They are sweet and slightly peppery.

How are the mushrooms?

They are good flat field mushroom, baked with lashing of butter.

Thoughts on the avocado – a food fashion too far?

Maybe an avocado is acceptable on a toasted English muffin with a poached egg, but they are not really my thing.

What to drink with it – tea, juice or coffee?

If you have the time, and if all are made fresh and with love, why not have all three?

What’s your dip of choice?

Ketchup all the way. We have made a beautiful fresh homemade ketchup in the past.

Can I eat my traditional breakfast at teatime?

We have made a full English as a starter for a ‘Best of British’ evening. We used grilled mushroom, Stornaway black pudding, streaky bacon, served with a poached egg and fresh tomato ketchup.

Could, or indeed should, any of your suggestions be made healthier if needs be?

A full English is a British staple, and shouldn’t be messed around with too much. If pushed, you could have a slightly smaller portion.

The Greyhound Inn 4 Market Place, Wilton, Salisbury. tel: 01722 744050; www.greyhoundinnwilton.com

We never thought to ask about a slice of lemon

The inclusion of the avocado has split the experts

DAVID GRIFFIN-SHEPHERD OWNER OF LA FLEUR DE LYS HOTEL & RESTAURANT

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day – it gets us in the right frame of mind to start the day, giving us the energy to work productively and efficiently throughout the morning.”

What’s your breakfast priority?

Firstly we concentrate on quality wholesome ingredients cooked fresh and where possible, as local as we can.

Attitude to eggs?

We use Greenweald over at Six Penny Handly and these are freshly laid and allowed to get to room temperature before cooking.

How do you cook them?

Poached is healthier and preferred these days, but they can be fried if you use a good oil. We use a local rapeseed oil as it cooks to a higher temperature and is generally lower in cholesterol than some other oils.

What’s the bacon like?

Bacon should be a proper dry cured variety, and not the watery mass produced kind. It can be smoked or unsmoked, depending on preference.

And the sausage?

A good quality local sausage, like Butlings in Ludwell which makes some of the best around here using quality meat and not off cuts and end bits.

Are you serving up black pudding?

Black pudding is optional, but in my opinion. If it is served, then make sure it is handmade and Scottish.

Mushrooms?

Yes but light grilled, and not fried or microwaved. Also use Portabella or field mushrooms as they are much better than cultivated ones.

Tomatoes?

Yes, but again, only if lightly grilled.

Baked beans Why not? They are a good source of protein Is the hash brown on the plate?

Definitely not. Traditionally we have fried bread, which I am okay with, as long as it is cooked in a low cholesterol oil.

La Fleur de Lys Hotel & Restaurant, Bleke Street, Shaftesbury. tel: 01747 853717; www.lafleurdelys.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 33

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

Spring Makeover, Spring Cleaning The arrival of the new season brings the perfect time to freshen up your home with at.twenty.one.interiors

W

e are offering a fantastic spring time promotion perfect to help rejuvenate your home! Not only can you receive up to 25 per cent off your brand new kitchen until 5 May 2018, we are also offering a FREE Miele robot vacuum cleaner* with systematic navigation, worth ÂŁ500 until 21 April 2018! Only a limited amount available so be quick!

This snazzy little household helper comes in a choice of black or red and will make cleaning your kitchen that much easier. So come on

Free Miele robot vacuum cleaner*

down to the at.twenty.one interiors showroom to grab yourself a bargain made-to-order kitchen designed by our qualified design team. *Terms and conditions apply, for more details ask our team. SL

Kate Stacey, Hania Southwell & Barrie McCarthy 21 Catherine Street Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2DF 01722 238177 | www.attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk kate@attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk hania@attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk barrie@attwentyoneinteriors.co.uk

The key to a good breakfast?

The Cross Keys Restaurant Create your perfect breakfast, large or small, and served all day.

Come and let us spoil you!

1 Cross Keys Chequer, Salisbury SP1 1EL | 01722 320933

advertising feature T R AV E L & T O U R I S M

due south History, food, shopping and music: isn't it time you paid a visit to Exeter?

E

xeter is a beautiful city steeped in over 2,000 years of history. At its heart stands its magnificent Gothic Cathedral. Cathedral Yard itself is dotted with cafes and restaurants in which to sit and watch the world

go by.

Find out more about Exeter’s fascinating history on a free Red Coat Guided Tour, running daily throughout the year, or head to the city’s award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum to take a voyage of discovery from prehistory to the present day through 16 galleries of displays.

Descend beneath Exeter’s streets to explore a remarkable network of subterranean passages, constructed in medieval times to bring fresh drinking water into the city – the only attraction of their kind open to the public in Britain!

Head to the picturesque Quayside to enjoy some great food and drink at one of the waterside pubs or cafés, or hire a bike or canoe to explore Exeter’s historic Ship Canal.

Find out more about Exeter’s rich maritime history at the 17th-century Custom House Visitor Centre.

The city’s compact size makes it the perfect shopping destination. Divided into distinct shopping quarters, a great choice of shops can be found within easy walking distance of each other, from large department stores such

as John Lewis to quirky independents tucked away in interesting arcades in the West Quarter and cobbled Gandy Street.

When it comes to refreshment stops, Exeter is a foodie’s heaven. The choice of eateries is vast, from weekly farmer’s and street food markets to real ales in historic pubs and fine dining choices. Be sure to visit Queen Street Dining, Exeter’s newest premium dining destination, the perfect place to sample the finest fare from local food heroes to unique cuisines in cool casual surroundings.

Exeter’s love of local food and drink is celebrated each year at its annual Festival of South West Food & Drink. Taking place this year between 5- 7 May in the courtyard of Exeter Castle and surrounding Northernhay Gardens, this year's festival will have an even stronger focus on music with live bands throughout the day in Exeter Castle, plus a separate evening event, Exeter Beats, promising a great line-up of music, street food, cocktails and local beers. Buy tickets at www.exeterfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk.

Venture a short distance from Exeter to visit a number of award-winning visitor attractions.

Crealy Adventure Park & Resort is a popular family favourite with over 100 acres of beautiful countryside and 60 rides and attractions to get the heart pumping. SL

Win a family break in Exeter…

Including a 3 night glamping break with theme park tickets at Crealy Adventure Park & Resort; entry to Exeter’s Underground Passages and £100 to spend at your favourite Queen Street Dining Restaurant. www.visitexeter.com/ summercompetition

Whatever your tastes, be sure to Visit Exeter. Go to www.visitexeter.com or call 01392 665700 to start planning your visit.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 35

*Please look at our website for T&C’s

1

2

3

BRIGHT SPARKS TIRED OF WAITING FOR THE SUNSHINE? THEN BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME WITH POPS OF YELLOW, LEMON AND CITRUS

4 5

1. HITS THE SPOT

2. LET THERE BE LIGHT

3. TOP FROG

4. COASTING ALONG

5. THE BEAK DISTRICT

Espresso coffee cup, £24.50 Newbury ceramics designer Sally Bettridge turns her skills to coffee-making with this contemporary, dotty coffee cup.

From Fisherton Mill,108 Fisherton Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 500200; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

Tealights and bowls, £15-£65 Individually hand decoupaged and varnished decorative bowls and tealight holders, these look fabulous singly or even better clustered.

From Digger & Mojo, Woodborough Garden Centre, Wiltshire. tel: 01672 85151; www.diggerandmojo.com

Bronze frog, £244 This little frog is called Chai and is by Tim Cotterill, the world’s top selling bronze artist.

From Gallery 21, 21 Queen Street Salisbury. tel: 01722 324000; www.gallery21.co.uk

Glass coasters, £12 Glass artist Phaedra Politis has combined delicate translucent beauty with practical durability with these handcrafted tiles.

A selection is available through Fisherton Mill.

From Phaedra Glass; www.phaedraglass.co.uk

Solid sterling silver duck keyring, £190 Make an entrance every day and keep your front door key on this cheery fellow, with his bright yellow enamel finish.

From H R Tribbeck & Son, 12 Bridge St, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324395; www.tribbecks.com

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

ED’S CHOICE 6

SHOPPING

7

8

10

9

6. TURN ME ON

7. LEMON AID

8. SNAKES AND ADDERS

9. DRIVE TIME

10. PAINTING BY NUMBERS

Large yellow ceramic lamp, £395 This beautiful large yellow ceramic lamp is decorated with oriental peach blossom, complete with white shade and mounted on a contrasting dark wood stand.

From Orchid Furniture, The Old Barn, Sandydown Stockbridge. tel: 01264 811111; www. orchidfurniture.co.uk

Gisela Graham large ceramic jug, £12.45 Perfect for keeping all drinks refreshingly cold.

Add ice and slice, or if preferred, fill with daffs from the garden.

From Casa Fina 62 High Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 326428; www.casafinasalisbury. co.uk

Serpent vase, £30 Give your flowers a twist with this vintage Art Deco era serpent glass vase from Czechoslovakia sold by the Salisburybased Chixycoco.

From Chixycoco at Etsy; www.etsy.com

VW Camper Van Clock, £30 This bright yellow timepiece made with eco-friendly bamboo wood Danish oil ensures it’s always summer time.

From Dancing Mole, The Boiler House, Dean Hill Park, West Dean, Salisbury, tel: 01794 341876; www.dancingmole.co.uk

English Yellow Chalk Paint

by Annie Sloan, £18.95 Water-based, eco-friendly and inspired by handpainted Chinese wall paper this chalky paint is a guaranteed ray of sunshine.

From No44 Homeworks, 44 Fisherton St, Salisbury. tel:01722 324773; www.no44homeworks.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE II 39 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON LIFE 69

BIKER GROOVE Sarah Moolla catches up with Kate Prevett, one half of the Salisbury-based bike specialists VP MOTORCYCLES

Y

ou might expect the people who deal with properly, serious, grown-up motorbikes to have a bit of a roar, some swag, be a bit, well, biker-y.

Kate Prevett is none of these things, in fact she’s very lovely and down-to-earth. It also turns out, despite working at the Old Sarum unit alongside husband Vince, she doesn’t bike. “I was taught to ride a quad bike on a farm but have never been tempted to learn on two-wheels. I was always happy to let Vince ride while I just sat on the back – mind, some would say that was brave,” she adds mischievously.

Just to set the record straight, and in Vince’s defence, he’s no hairy, scary hell’s angel either, just a man who has always loved bikes, “Vince has ridden motorcycles starting at the age of six,” explains Kate. “His whole family love their bikes too.”

So how did the pair first meet? “It was on a farm near Stockbridge Hampshire. Vince was born there and worked on the farm for many years, and I moved into a farm cottage twodoors down after finishing college. We met when 40 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

he knocked on my door asking for change for a £20 note. But having only just finished college I probably didn’t even have 20p! He since confessed it was the only line he could think of so he could speak to me. It must have worked though, because that was more than 20 years ago.”

Before opening VP Motorcycles in 2011, the pair were both self employed; Vince worked on farms, ran a landscaping business and worked for other motorcycle shops, while Kate also worked on livestock farms, ran animal handling workshops and did, and still does, the clerical admin for the charity Blesma, which looks after limbless ex-service men and women. Kate is quick to put the success of their business, which not only sells motorbikes and biking accessories but also services, rebuilds and does onsite MOTs, down to Vince. “It is of course all of our sheer hard graft, but it helps that motorcycles are Vince’s passion – he treats every one’s bike how he treats his own. I think being trustworthy, honest and having a vested interest and true belief in your work goes a long way. People can see it. Also don’t forget, we are dealing with something that is also their pride and joy, so

This page from top left: Husband and wife team Vince and Kate Prevett; helmets of all styles can be bought at VP Motorcycles; Kate knows the key to business success is hard graft Opposite page: bikers’ jackets; customised bikes; a large retail area; Vince does on site MOTs and servicing

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

SHOPPING

WE MET WHEN HE KNOCKED MY DOOR ASKING FOR CHANGE OF A £20 NOTE

they want the best.”

But it would be wrong to underestimate the modest Kate – she’s also a huge driving force in many aspects of this thriving company including the social media marketing. “It plays a big part in building the business; advertising, what we do, events coming up, offers we have and generally keeping your name up there.

The word-of-mouth recommendations from customers and reviews really do make us proud of what we do and have achieved in seven years.”

Kate is honest about the hard work it takes to keep VP Motorcycles ticking and admits ”One of the downsides is definitely the lack of time off and not going away together very much.” But they do make time to take one family holiday each year with their two teenage boys. “Also Vince takes a lads’ trip on the bikes to watch a Moto GP in Europe,” but before you can feel sorry for Kate, she quickly adds, “so I fit in a couple of weekend trips away with the girls.”

See, I told you not to underestimate her.

For more: VP Motorcycles. Unit 23 Sarum Business Park, Lancaster Road, Old Sarum, Salisbury. tel: 01722 238 594; www.vpmotorcycles.co.uk

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

OUT OF TOWN

SHAFTESBURY IT’S SIGHTS, SHOPS AND SECRETS Who better to take us on a tour of Shaftesbury than the people who know, love and live there

By SA R A H MOOL L A

I

n terms of size, Shaftesbury maybe seem small and yet it is huge in terms of things to enjoy. The cobbled streets, the Abbey, the arts centre, the churches, the retail and the restaurants, all blend seamlessly to offer a picturesque and rich labyrinth of activities and attractions.

But Shirley Allum who has run her eponymously named fashion and lingerie shop located opposite Gold Hill for 21 years, and worked in the town for 50 years says, “For me, Shaftesbury is about our beautiful High Street with its thriving independents, and while the backdrop is stunning, sometimes just a cup of tea and a slice of cake in King Alfred’s Kitchen is all you need.”

James Thrift of the Apple IT support company The Dorset MacMan, echoes this sentiment, “Sat on our hilltop, you don’t even need to leave the town to enjoy the stunning countryside that surrounds us. A perfect Shatesbury moment for me is enjoying a pint at The Ship, or taking a toboggan down a snowy Gold Hill.”

IT IS THIS

COMBINATION OF THE OLD AND THE NEW THAT MAKES THE TOWN SO SPECIAL The famous Gold Hill and its stunning far reaching view 42 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

OUT OF TOWN “Shaftesbury is an individual town with its own special identity,” says Dawn Small whose ladies’ clothing boutique Bijoux & Willow can be found on Bell Street. “It has obvious links to the past and ancient history and is a great place to visit for a day out because of its independent shops and eateries. My own secret part of the town is Shaftesbury’s St James’s area, which you can see below you on Park Walk and is a village within Shaftesbury, with its enchanting little streets and passages like Laundry Lane and Tanyard Lane.”

Annie Ring and Ellen Biggs, who are the florists at Bright Blooms, both cite the North Dorset market town’s scenic surrounds as inspiration for their design-led floral work, “Just to sit in The Salt Cellar at the top of Gold Hill and take in the breathtaking views while you eat is amazing.”

David and Mary Griffin Shepherd of La Fleur de Lys Hotel & Restaurant, (turn to page 30 for David English breakfast secrets) agree, “Gold Hill, which became very famous for the 1970s Hovis bread advert, has magnificent views over Blackmore Vale. Plus the fascinating Gold Hill local history museum is located there with its award-winning cottage garden.”

Another sight simply not to be missed whether local, a tourist or just passing, is the impressive Shaftesbury Abbey that sits in the town centre and is one of the favourite spots for bespoke biscuit creator Juliet Stallwood, “I would immediately direct any visitor to start at Abbey Walk, taking in the Abbey museum and wander down gently to St James’s.” Shaftesbury Abbey Museum’s events administrator Annabel Turner fills us in on the Abbey’s back-in-the-mist-of-time beginnings, “Founded by Alfred the Great in 888,

Top: Viking Day at the Abbey is just one of the community events the historic building plays host to below: the charming Mangle cottage in Laundry Lane

DIRECTORY Bijoux & Willow; www.bijouxandwillow.com Bright Blooms; www.brightblooms.co.uk Compton Smith; www.comptonsmith.co.uk The Dorset Mac Man; www.dorsetmacman.co.uk Enchanted Plants; www.enchantedplants.co.uk Gold Hill Museum; www.goldhillmuseum.org.uk The Grosvenor Arms; www.grosvenorarms.co.uk La Fleur de Lys Hotel & Restaurant; www.lafleurdelys.co.uk Juliet Stallwood Cakes and Biscuits; www.julietstallwood cakesandbiscuits.co.uk Mine Boutique; tel: 01747 850256 Shaftesbury Abbey Museum; www.shaftesburyabbey.org.uk Shaftesbury Tourism; www.shaftesburytourism. co.uk Shirley Allum Fashions; www.shirleyallum fashions.co.uk

it was the first women-only Benedictine nunnery in the country. It flourished for hundreds of years, until it was destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1539.

Annabel continues, “The walled garden contains the excavated remains of the Abbey and an extensive medieval herb collection.”

The Abbey also hosts open-air Shakespeare performances to Viking activity days, the Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival, the Food & Drink Festival (see overleaf for more details), and the Fringe Festival in June, firmly establishing itself, not just as a historic monument, but also the beating heart of the community.

Giles Making, general manager of The Grosvenor Arms believes it is this combination of the old and the new that makes the town so special. “Shaftesbury is steeped in Saxon history and features extensively in Thomas Hardy’s novels but it’s also a thriving hilltop market town.”

Simon Butler, managing director of Compton Smith Classic Interiors, which also provides architectural ironmongery alongside its interiors products and services, agrees, “So many creative businesses, people and trade have taking up home here, giving us a pool of talented local people making wonderful bespoke products. On the Wincombe Business Park alone you can also find independent kitchen and bathroom joinery businesses, picture framers and antique shops.”

Among those bring their talents to the Dorset town is Jemma Ricketts of Enchanted Plants, who returned to her hometown to specialise in handmade certified organic skincare, made with the beauty of organic plants and flowers.

The ladies from the clothes and accessories store Mine Boutique on the High Street say it is the town’s friendliness that helps Shaftesbury succeed, “It’s loyal customers and the support independent businesses give each other that helps the town feel so welcoming.” www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 43

OUT OF TOWN

The CULTURED CLUB! The Shaftesbury Food & Drink Festival is rolling round on 13 May and bringing with it cheese races, town bands, local produce and talented chefs

By JOH N M AT H E R Photo s by JA M E S T H R I F T w w w.ja me s t h r i f t.com

T

here’s food festivals and then there’s the Shaftesbury Food and Drink Festival with its nutty, but totally ‘grate’, world-famous cheese races.

And somehow to see friends, colleagues, families and teens leg it up a treacherously steep and cobbled gradient, and not even that Caerphilly, with a very large truckle of cheese tucked under their arm, looks completely bonkers but utterly brie-liant.

Cheesemonger and café owner Charlie Turnbull, organiser of The Gold Hill Run which was added in 2012, says he was inspired by the local folklore about medieval cheesemakers, brewers, millers and butchers racing to get their goods to the Abbey gates first so their wares would be chosen by the Abbess for her table.

“The race is also a tribute,” explains Charlie, “to a millennia of cheese making in the Blackmore Vale, with ‘slightly mad’ participants racing with the locally-made cheeses which are 35cm in diameter.

“Each one takes up to 500 pints of milk to make – that’s a lot of effort from a lot of cows.

But they are not very convenient to carry up a hill.” That’s putting it mildly, and you feta believe it, especially when you learn each cheese weighs approximately 45-55lb. Fortunately the more immature-in-age participants get to carry polystyrene copies.

Also entertaining the crowds during the 44 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Sunday celebration will be the stalls covering the entire length of the pretty town and featuring the fabulous Anonymous Travelling Market on Park Walk, as well as producers from The Dorset Farmers Market and Dorset Food and Drink in the High Street.

Live cooking demonstrations are happening outside the Shaftesbury Town Hall at the Chefs on Stage section, with local chefs cooking up an array of very tempting dishes from fish, meat, savoury and sweet using the finest quality local produce and better still, they’ll be handing out samples. This ‘Out & About Cooking Live’ is supported and sponsored by local food producers and suppliers to help highlight the rich wealth of talent and produce in the area.

Swans Yard is hosting a variety of live music, as well as showcasing some of the best in local art and crafts and at the Shaftesbury Abbey Gardens there’s dancing with local troupe, Steps in Time. There’s also a performance from the Shaftesbury Town Silver Band who started life in 1869 under the name of The Penny Whistle Band due to the fact that it consisted mostly of whistle pipes.

With all this going on – you know the Shaftesbury Food & Drink Festival is going to be a cracker of a day.

OUT OF TOWN

THE RACE IS AÂ TRIBUTE TO A MILLENNIA OF CHEESE MAKING IN THE

BLACKMORE VALE

These 2017 runners make it look ch-easy!

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

The foundations of this once influential Abbey, founded by King Alfred the Great, lie in a peaceful walled garden with medieval herb garden and orchard.

The museum brings to life the story of the Abbey and its inhabitants.

Opening Times 24th March - 31st October 2018 10am to 5pm daily Coach and car parking in town car parks a few minutes’ walk away Tickets Adults £3, Concessions £2.50, Children FREE (16 and under, accompanied) Discounted tickets for groups by arrangement The museum and garden are accessible to disabled visitors, and families are welcome.

Park Walk, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8HQ Tel 01747 852910 • email office@shaftesburyabbey.org.uk www.shaftesburyabbey.org.uk

Independent clothing and gift boutique in Shaftesbury, Dorset.

q 01747 850256

12 High Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8JG

sales@mine-boutique.co.uk

f mineshaftesbury

BOUQUET • POSIES PLANTS • WORKSHOPS

SPECIAL OCCASIONS WEDDINGS • FUNERALS

A design led florist established in 2009, Bright Blooms Floral Boutique continues to create original work using seasonal flower and foliages.

StephNewtonPhotography

14 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8AE Tel: 01747 854483 • info@brightblooms.co.uk • www.brightblooms.co.uk

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

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Home of artisan organic soap and skincare Enchanted Plants makes beautiful organic soap and skincare, handmade with knowledge as a medical herbalist and with love of the natural beauty of plants.

Hillary Thompson 01225 475807

Tel: 01747 851008 • info@enchantedplants.co.uk 6 The Commons, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8JU www.enchantedplants.co.uk

Salisbury Life is now available to download. www.mediaclash.co.uk

Salisbury Park run is a fabulous way to meet other

runners and perhaps find a buddy to run with

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

GET FIT

THE RUNNING ORDER JOHN MATHER gets on track with how best to train for long distance running

W

ith the London Marathon happening on 23 April and more than 40,000 competitors, fun runners and fundraisers about to go the 26.2mile distance, it may just kick start your inspiration to become a road runner. And now would be the perfect time to start upping the fitness levels and consider training for our very own Salisbury Half Marathon happening on 7 October. But where do we begin? We turned to our local get-fit and health gurus for their advice and tips

ON YOUR MARKS

It’s never too early to start training

“If you have not run since cross country class in 1984 then it’s certainly not the time to be entering the London Marathon, but Salisbury’s half marathon at 13.1 miles is infinitely more do-able, and your time frame is spot on,” advises personal trainer Alan Levi. Steve Elliot, race director of Salisbury Half Marathon agrees, “The race in Salisbury is a great place to try your half first marathon – it is almost completely flat and really novice-friendly. Starting in the city centre and finishing under the gaze of Salisbury Cathedral it really is a race to be enjoyed by runners of all abilities, and spectators alike.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 51

GET FIT

GET SET

Alan says, “When I design a personal training plan I always write it backwards from the goal date, and then implement levels of flexibility to allow for life to get in the way. The longer you give yourself the better – 5-6 months is ideal.” Jenny Mears of the Sarum Physiotherapy Centre believes being kind to yourself is the key, “Start slowly and gently, with a mixture of walk and run. The first thing to do is to is get a plan to guide you, such as Couch to 5k which is a really good way for anyone of any level of fitness to get going. This is the time to lay down foundations and prevent early injury. Salisbury Park run is a fabulous way to meet other runners and perhaps find a buddy to run with.”

BEST FOOT FORWARD

“A common mistake is not wearing the right trainers. Most running shops will offer gait analysis to help you choose footwear with the right support. Be sure to have a pair for training and a worn in, but not worn out, pair for the event,” advises Marie Roberts of Harnham Physiotherapy. Advice echoed by Steve, “Get trainers that not only fit, but suit the way that you run. They don’t have to be very expensive but illfitting shoes will not help your efforts.”

GO

Once you’re off, how do you know the best pace to run at? “A very good indication is you can still hold down a conversation,” says Steve. Alan, who prepares simple 10-week programmes for his

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

GET FIT

OUR FITNESS EXPERTS

S T E V E E L L I O T T is the race

director of Salisbury Half Marathon tel: 01935 315470; www.salisburyhalf.com

GETTING INTO GOOD HABITS WITH A WARM UP AND COOL DOWN IS

IMPERATIVE

AL AN L E V I of Alan Levi

Personal Training tel: 07970 383606; alan@ alanlevipersonaltraining.co.uk

J E N N Y M E ARS ,

physiotherapist at Sarum Physiotherapy Centre, 213 Devizes Road, Salisbury. tel: 01722 415055; www.sarumphysio.co.uk

M ARI E RO B E RT S,

chartered physiotherapist at Harnham Physiotherapy Clinic, 56 Harnwood Rd, Salisbury. tel: 01722 501010; www.harnhamphysiotherapy. co.uk

clients, suggests, “Week 1, walk twice a week for an hour, then run twice a week for 35 minutes.

This can build to walking for an hour and fifteen minutes and running three times a week for 45, 60 and 90 minutes by week 8, depending on your time scale.”

Steve also has suggestions for optimum times to start your runs, “The best time of day to run to help promote weight loss is in the morning before breakfast. When you start to get a little more confident, try to include three 20 second efforts, ideally up a slight gradient, followed by walking for 20 seconds to recover. This will elevate your heart rate to a level where you will help consume your fat reserves. We all carry some fat, burning some of this and reducing your weight will make running easier.”

PIT STOPS

Opposite page, far left: Go for a proper trainer fitting to make the running that bit easier; the inspirational runners of the Salisbury Half 2017 emerge from the High Street Gate; take your water bottle with you and stay hydrated at all times; this page: Making the effort to stretch both before and after running is very important

Keeping hydrated should never be overlooked as Jenny explains, “Right from day one it is key to get into the habit of taking water with you, and drinking sips along the way. It will help with recovery, stop your muscles from cramping and minimise later soreness.” Alan adds, “Nutrition is totally essential. What you fuel your muscles and cells with is the key to your running success.

However just because you are running doesn’t mean that you can consume a sack of pasta.

Overconsumption of carbohydrates and too little smart fats such as coconut, avocado, and macadamia, is another common error.”

A LITTLE R&R (REST AND RECOVERY)

However, too much enthusiasm in the beginning can result in later problems, as Jenny warns, “Too much too fast can lead to injury, so getting into good habits with a warm up and cool down is imperative. The body has to get used to the running action, everyone is different, and so it is important to learn to listen to your body.”

Marie agrees, “One of the most common mistakes runners make is to over train. This includes increasing the mileage too quickly and not allowing rest days or injury recovery.

You may wish to undertake a physiotherapy screening when you start training to help identify any problems with flexibility, strength, control and alignment which could inhibit your training and performance. This will also help you to plan your training programme and prevent injuries.”

“Don’t be afraid to seek advice at the first sign of a niggle,” says Jenny. “Running injuries are most often caused by overuse and repetitive strains often starting as annoying niggles, but if left will develop into something more chronic.

If you have a coach speak to them, they may change your training plan, or check your running style. Physio assessment and treatment can both diagnose the problem, look at the cause, and prevent further damage, and get you quickly back on track.” www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 53

COME AND VISIT OUR CAFÉ & SHOP Our cafe has now moved upstairs with a table service downstairs, providing more seating. We are still selling all our special cakes and pastries options including gluten free, wheat free, dairy free and vegan.

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

GET 10% OFF YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT AS A NEW CLIENT BY QUOTING THE CODE LIFE10 WHEN BOOKING. CALL US TODAY OR BOOK ONLINE.

“As an amazing special offer to Salisbury Life readers, I am offering of a session of SMR with a free foam roller for the attendee. This is a session to the value of £80 but for a limited period only will cost Salisbury Life readers £50!”

Alan Levi

AS WELL AS PERSONAL TRAINING ALAN LEVI OFFERS: Emotional Freedom Technique EFT is a very straightforward and highly effective method of energy work that involves tapping on specific meridian points that increase energy flow throughout the body. It has been successfully used in cases of severe emotional trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (in the US), performance anxiety, sports performance and weight loss. It is an outstanding method of removing limiting beliefs and negative emotions, is phenomenally easy to learn and once mastered can be applied to literally every aspect of your life!

Inversion Therapy for lower back disorders Wedding Belle Marital package Getting the Bride or Groom to the altar in the best shape of their life Instant Muscle Strengthening Technique as pioneered by elite strength coach Charles Poliquin – a unique method of injury prehab/rehab that utilises cutting edge techniques to ensure immediate results

CONTACT ALAN ON:

Mob: 07970 383 606 • Email: alanlevi90@hotmail.com 07970 383 606 www.alanlevipersonaltraining.co.uk

We are a local team of highly skilled insured Chartered Physiotherapists, with over 85 years combined experience.

We treat all manner of musculoskeletal problems in clinic and also provide essential rehabilitation or neurological physiotherapy at home.

Remedial massage now also available.

RECOMMENDED BY CLIENTS, GP’S, CARE HOMES AND CONSULTANTS.

01722501010 / 07712042896 info@harnhamphysiotherapy.co.uk • www.harnhamphysiotherapy.co.uk

7th October 2018 Start on closed roads New Canal 12:00hrs.

Finish in Cathedral Close.

Two lap flat course on partially closed roads, taking in many of the beautiful sights around the city.

Salisbury Half Marathon took to the City streets in 2016 & 2017 receiving some fantastic reviews. Immortal Sport are delighted to confirm the race will return on 7th October 2018 and is Race 9 of the Wiltshire Road Race League. This is sure to be one of the most popular Half Marathons in the South. Super flat, fast course with a superb atmosphere around some of the great landmarks of the City.

Visit our website to enter:

www.salisburyhalf.com

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FUNDRAISING

COLLECTIVE THINKING Local organisations putting their fundraising heads together is helping the Salisbury community When great minds get together, great things can happen, as demonstrated by the recent collaboration between Salisbury’s community- and business-focused organisations. The Salisbury Rotary Club came together with the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce four years ago with the aim of maximising the fundraising potential of both organisations, with further alliances including Salisbury BID, other independent businesses in Salisbury and, until recently, the local Federation of Small Businesses. And the results have been outstanding.

Steve Corless, chair of the Salisbury Rotary & Business in the Community Group, explains, “Since its inception the group has raised over £50,000 from its activities with recent beneficiaries being Julia’s House, Children’s Chance and The Wiltshire Air Ambulance, among others. A recent event was the Corporate Charity Gala Quiz held at Salisbury Arts Centre on 9 March, which raised £5,650.”

Funds have also helped stage community events such as the Salisbury Easter Egg Hunt, the Great Salisbury Schools Bake Off Challenge and the Rotary

The Blue Bee Solutions winners

Great minds get together for the recent Corporate Charity Gala Quiz

Young Chef Competition. It also helps fund initiatives for local Alzheimer’s charities; providing holidays for disadvantaged families; and days out for disabled and disadvantaged children; and helps to fund the Riverbourne Community Farm.

“Current plans include a swimathon in April, a karting evening in May, and a Salisbury Float event utilising some of Salisbury’s rivers,” says Steve. “We are always open to more ideas and people helping, which they can do by emailing salisburyrotary@gmail.com.”

For more: www.salisburyrotary.org.uk

PHOTO BY SPENCER MULHOLLAND

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

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“I WAS PART OF A TEAM THAT LOOKED AFTER OUR SOLDIERS IN CAMP BASTION, AFGHANISTAN” Who is the first rate frontline nurse and first aid trainer?

Find out on page 50

50

THE BIG NUMBER

How many stands expected at the South Wilts Business Expo Turn to page 59 for the full story

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

A CUT ABOVE

When it comes to raising funds, Seth is using his head

Salisbury musician Seth Roberts recently had his hair cut by Sienna Taye Hairdressers for charity. Salon owner Kelly CravenSalvatelli explains, “Seth, who hadn’t been to a hairdressers for 15 years, donated his hair to the Little Princess Trust which provides real hair wigs for children suffering from hair loss.”

Seth says, “I am also raising money The Courage Foundation UK. My eldest son has a congenital heart disease, which has contributed to many medical challenges to his life and we have grown to know a number of families who have lost children. The support the foundation offers is simply fantastic.”

For more: wwww.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/sethroberts

Teen traders rule the market Nick Hewer is the patron of Salisbury’s Hope and Homes

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC GIVING HOPE Countdown host Nick Hewer has accepted a £200,000 cheque from players of People’s Postcode Lottery on behalf of the Salisbury-based charity Hope and Homes for Children. The charity will use the funds to find families for thousands of disabled children locked away in East African orphanages. Nick, who is the charity’s patron and recently visited the charity’s projects in Rwanda, says, “By finding them safe and loving families to grow up in, these children have a brighter future.” www.hopeandhomes.org

TEA TIMERS

SELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT The teenagers are back and marketing themselves as Salisbury’s next generation of business brains with the return of The Teenage Market.

Held in the Guildhall Square alongside the Charter Market, the first one is 14 April, followed by 10 August and 27 October. Claire Burden, business manager of Salisbury City Council, says, 58 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“With 24 stalls, including homemade crafts, arts and jewellery, The Salisbury Teenage Market is a unique opportunity providing a free platform for young people under the age of 25 to try out new business ideas and sell creative products.”

For more: www.salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk

Salisbury’s interior shop, Casa Fina celebrated this year’s Mothers’ Day with a special invitation to Tea in the Window. Owner Susi Mason explains, “We had the placecards hand written by Anne Waddington of Font and Flourish and our guests enjoyed cake donated by Reeve the Baker.” www.casafinasalisbury.co.uk

HELPING HANDS Goldolphin School is hosting a retreat day of holistic therapies, exercise and workshops on 5 May. Marie Roberts of Harnham Physiotherapy Clinic, who is the Salisbury coordinator for the World Health Heroes organisation, says, “There will be access to tasters sessions in reiki, mindfulness and hypnotherapy along with talks and workshops with process starting at just £3.50.” www.worldhealthheroesuk.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

AN INSPIRING MAN

Salisbury networking opportunities

BUSINESS MINDED

Paddy bequeathed to the charity he had also supported in life; below: Paddy’s great aunt was the painter LF Waring

A brand new and unique business event is about to happen in Salisbury at the Guildhall. Ceri HurfordJones, vice-president of Salisbury Chamber of Commerce, explains, “South Wilts Business Expo happening 25 April, is a full-on, one day event with over 50 stands representing a diverse range of local large and small businesses.

“With South Wiltshire’s major employers present, seminars from successful local businessmen and women and scheduled networking sessions, this is a great opportunity to help improve your brand, build partnerships and expand your knowledge whatever your field.”

A former Royal Navy aircraft pilot has left everything he owned to the charity which he had been helping support.

Helen Rooney of INSPIRE Foundation explains, “Lieutenant Paddy Waring, who passed away earlier this year, crash landed in Singapore back in 1965. Some 12 years later, his spinal injury came back to haunt him unfortunately resulting in paraplegia.

“He then became involved in the charity firstly on the scientific committee and later supporting us in lot of other ways.”

The charity, which for 25 years has focused on research into spinal cord injury, is holding the Paddy Waring Memorial Auction on 10 May at the Rose and Crown Hotel, Harnham.

Helen says, “There are so many fascinating artefacts left to us by Paddy, including paintings by his great aunt LF Waring.”

For more: www.inspire-foundation.org.uk

For more: www.salisburyexpo.co.uk

PROPERTY Q&A Jo Clements from the solicitors Batt Broadbent’s conveyancing team, discusses the property owning options Q What are the different options for co-owning a property and how will this affect my estate?

A Buying a property is likely to be the most valuable investment that you make and so it is vital that you protect that investment properly. There are many ways in which joint ownership of property can be arranged and each will have an effect on what happens to your share of the property if you were to die.

1 If you own property with someone else as ‘joint tenants’ then regardless of what is stated in your Will, the surviving owner will inherit your share of the property.

2 If owned as tenants in common, both you and the co-owner will be named on the title deeds but you will each be deemed to own a

distinct share, which each of you can pass on through your Wills.

3 If you want your family to inherit your interest in the property rather than the person with whom you purchased the property, you will need to ensure that you own as tenants in common.

4 If the co-owners have contributed different amounts to the purchase, then you may want to ring fence that investment and ensure it will be repaid to them (or their estates) when the property is sold. This can be achieved by drafting a ‘Declaration of Trust’, which clearly sets out the different interests.

For more: Batt Broadbent, tel: 01722 411141; www.battbroadbent.co.uk

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

MEDICAL TRAINING

STEPHANIE HODGSON Stephanie of New Horizons Medical is a first aid trainer, registered general nurse and medical lecturer

S

tephanie first started nursing in 1996, as a health care support worker, and trained at Bristol UWE. She then moved back to Salisbury and worked at Salisbury District Hospital for nearly 15 years. Along with her new business venture, where she is trainer and assessor in adult and paediatric basic life support and first aid in the work place, Stephanie also works as a nurse responder at a well-known local theme park.

Are you born and bred Salisbury?

Not quite. I am a Devon girl originally, born in Barnstaple, North Devon. In my late 20s I used to visit friends here whose spouses were in the Forces, and I fell in love with the area. I originally moved up here in 1996, and now, after 20 years, I definitely feel Salisbury is my true home.

How did you end up in the medical profession – was it because you loved science at school?

I am not going to fib, I hated science at school, and certainly had no intention of becoming a nurse. All I knew was I wanted to travel the world, but with little notion of how I was going to actually accomplish that. This is where nursing would come in handy.

How so?

After qualifying in 2005, I joined the Army Reserves with 243 Field Hospital. I was privileged to be part of a team that looked after our soldiers in the A&E department in Camp Bastion, Afghanistan.

Was that difficult at times?

I can honestly say it was the most worthwhile job I have ever done. My last tour was in 2010 and after another two years of working as a Trauma Plastics Specialist Nursing Sister at Salisbury District Hospital, I decided I wanted to have a little more fun.

With this in mind, I joined the Merchant Navy and spent over two years travelling the world with P&O Cruises.

What is the New Horizons Medical mantra?

First Aid can, and does, save lives. The thought of giving first aid can be terrifying, but I believe that making the learning engaging, interactive, and fun, will give clients the confidence to step forward if needed. This in turn, could save a life.

Why do you think people are reluctant to learn first aid?

It’s simply not something any one of us wants to think – it makes us worry about our family, our children, but we should take the small step to being knowledgeable and practical. Instead of buying new parents-to-be a Moses basket, a one-day paediatric course might sound a bit heavyweight, but imagine what confidence it can give someone moving forward.

IF I HAD NOT

TAUGHT HIM SO WELL, THEN HIS BEST FRIEND MAY HAVE DIED

What the motivation behind New Horizons Medical?

I had been employed as a part time medical lecturer at a maritime academy for over four years, teaching first aid and basic life support to maritime crew, whilst also working shifts in A&E on the nursing bank. I was also being asked if I could train them at their office, factory or school, and now, since taking my Education and Teaching qualification, I can.

Where do you teach these skills?

Most of my customers prefer me to go to them. Having worked shifts most of my career, I understand the importance of adapting to the needs of clients which usually means me going to their organisation, 60 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

and offering training around their working hours – whether that be evenings, weekends, INSET days or even holidays.

What has been feedback from your clients?

One of my young maritime cadets, who had been on my first aid course just the week before, came back to tell me he had performed back slaps and then an ‘abdominal thrust’ on another cadet who been choking on an olive. He saved his life. He gave me the biggest bear hug and said that if I had not taught him so well, then his best friend may have died.

Is there someone in business that you admire and learn from?

My friend Elizabeth Burgh of Red Square Medical, who set up her own business in training maritime medicine at sea, arranging tailored medical equipment for yachts and designing her own medical grab bags. It was due to her support that I started up, and I now teach paediatrics basic life support to the yachting fraternity.

What are your top tips for health care?

Listen to your body and if it is saying it’s unhappy, by giving you pain, new lumps/bumps or unusual symptoms, then see your GP or call 111. It is so easy to ignore signs and symptoms because ‘I don’t have time to be ill’, or because you fear what it might turn out to be. The sooner you see someone, the sooner you can put your mind at rest, or catch it early enough to deal with it.

For more: New Horizons Medical. tel: 07936 385983; steph.hodgson48@gmail.com

PEOPLE

Our price list was once on the back of a postcard, and now I am currently designing our new 40-page brochure

This picture of my children Zachary and Amelia reminds me of why I work so hard!

MY DESK Julian and I when we won Spa of the Year South West in 2017

This timer from my husband to encourages me to take breaks A few deep breaths of an aromatherapy balm can help focus my mind

I begin my day with a Skinade collagen drink and then spend the day alternating between tea and water

NIKKI SPICER Photos by JOHN ROSE

Nikki Spicer is spa director at Vita Skin Spa, an award-winning, city centre beauty and treatment salon she has run with husband Julian since 2005. Here she shows us her home office, where she also works.

She says, “I love the environment of the spa, the way it smells, the way it makes me feel relaxed; so when I’m based at home, I need a little piece of ‘Vita’ with me.”

For more: www.vitaskinspa.co.uk

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

residential lettings & property management

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

NEW LEAF ELSIE CHADWICK can see the wood for the trees with this Redlynch home

64 LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk 112I I SALISBURY CLIFTON LIFE

W

ith this spectacular Whiteshoot village home, you’ll be sure to love thy neighbour. They are attractive, quiet, welcoming, mature and will respect your privacy. They are also mainly broadleaf woodland, scattered bluebells, 60 acres in size and called the New Forest Tinneys Firs, which is how this property gained its name.

Set amongst the Douglas firs and the pine trees and in a 4.5 acre plot is this stunning family home, which was extensively remodelled and rebuilt from the original cottage that occupied the space in 2004. The project involved strategic and thoughtful clearing of a number of the trees resulting in the creation of an exceptional site that allows light to flood in, yet retains a feeling of peaceful seclusion, plus your private paths for winding, meandering and wandering through the woodland.

The house is approached down a gravelled drive to a turning circle where there is a double garage and double carport. Within the garden there is also a large open outdoor store and not one, but two helipads. The majority of the garden is laid to lawn, which provides many opportunities to add to and create more formal gardens, but also offers ease of maintenance until you are ready to do so.

The house itself offers flexible accommodation that is perfect for modern family living with most of the ground floor being open plan. There is a real sense of space throughout due to the thoughtful layout that flows beautifully and the rooms all being so light and airy. On the ground floor there is cosy sitting room with a bangon-trend woodburning stove. The entrance hall then

Clockwise, from top left: the light floods into very corner of this home; a thoughtful and spacious layout; a casual kitchen diner in a beautiful and contemporary style; cosy nooks like this sitting room add character

HOUSE NUMBERS

5

double bedrooms

1

self-contained annexe

4.5

acres of land

£1.38M guide price

opens on to the open plan kitchen/breakfast room fitted with a gas fired AGA and large French windows that lead out to the southerly facing terrace, making the most of the sun throughout the day. The kitchen/breakfast room extends through to the large drawing room with impressive glazing accentuating the space within this room and making it perfect for entertaining for the guests who’ve just arrived by helicopter.

Up on the first floor is the master bedroom with en suite bathroom and walk-in dressing room along with a Juliet balcony, to drink in those stunning views. There are also three further decent-sized double bedrooms, two with en suite shower rooms. On the second floor there is an additional large bedroom with en suite cloakroom.

This flexible space however offers the opportunity to create a study or additional reception room. Almost all the bedrooms benefit from being dual aspect, making the first and second floor as sunny and welcoming as the ground floor.

More potential also lies in this wonderful family home in the shape of an attached self-contained one-bedroom annexe on the west elevation of Tinneys Firs, with an en suite shower room. And for a work-from-home option, situated within the grounds but away from the house, making it the ideal commute, is a wooden office fitted with broadband and a separate phone line. And if you wanted to maximise the potential of this property even further, there is a cloakroom and space to make a separate one-bedroom annexe subject to the necessary planning consents. Sounds to us like the perfect neighbourhood.

For more: Strutt & Parker; 41 Milford St, Salisbury. tel: 01722 328741; www.struttandparker.com

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

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

Q&A

G

areth was previously studio associate at the National Theatre, artistic director of Southwark Playhouse and associate director at Bristol Old Vic. At Salisbury Playhouse he has directed more than 17 productions including Hedda Gabler, The Magna Carta Plays, Little Shop of Horrors, A Man Of No Importance and currently Moonfleet, which runs 19 April to 5 May.

I was born in Cheltenham and then we moved to Hong Kong when I was five. It was an amazing city to grow up in although I always regret never having learned Cantonese.

My grandad was director of studies at Amport House, the RAF Chaplain’s school, near Andover between 1969 and 1971. My mum was living at home at the time, working at the old Salisbury hospital. My mum tells me she also saw a show at the old Salisbury Playhouse on Fisherton Street during this time.

Growing up I was pretty clear about wanting to be a dentist. Later this became a journalist. I did learn to touch type because of this – possibly the only practical skill I possess.

My love of theatre could be due to my grandfather. As well as being a minister, he was also a magician and ventriloquist – sometimes combining all three. My dad has always been a performer as well, playing guitar, writing songs, putting on shows.

My life motto is ‘What’s next?’ I think we have a tendency to dwell on past success and failure, so I try to remind myself to keep looking forward, keep pushing and moving on.

GARETH MACHIN The artistic director of Wiltshire Creative reveals a fondness for a tatty pencil case, show tunes and Liverpool Football Club I was lucky enough to work under the brilliant leadership of Nick Hytner and Nick Starr at the National Theatre. Their savvy balance of art and business was definitely an inspiration.

I was named after Sir Gareth Edwards, the former rugby union player who played scrumhalf for Wales, so no surprise I follow the Welsh national rugby side. I also support Liverpool Football Club, but to participate, swimming has always been my sport of choice.

During the rehearsals for Moonfleet

Playing show tunes on the piano really badly is a hobby of mine, as my poor next door neighbours will no doubt attest.

I have a pencil case that dates back to primary school that I still use. It’s pretty tatty but definitely has sentimental value. Other than that, I’m pretty attached to my coffee maker, particularly first thing in the morning.

I love work that celebrates the South West of England. I’ve just re-read John Fowle’s The French Lieutenant’s Woman and was blown away once more by the ambition, the intelligence and the passion.

My ambition in the short term is to delivering a fantastic production of Moonfleet. Looking slight further ahead, we’re in the first year of Wiltshire Creative and there are exciting times in store as we bring together the collective strengths of the Playhouse, Arts Centre and International Arts Festival.

My secret Salisbury is Coffee Culture’s garden on Fisherton Street – it is a wonderful city centre oasis.

For more: Wiltshire Creative. tel: 01722 320333; www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk 66 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk