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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014
Editor’s Letter
I can’t believe it’s November already, with Christmas fast approaching! So in this issue we have plenty of ideas to help you enjoy the festive season! In our ever-expanding What’s on Section there are many musical events, often in aid of good causes, so please support them if you can. Nigel Havers is headlining the Wyvern Theatre’s Pantomime: Dick Whittington which you can read about on page 9.
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Photo: Richard Wintle
We also feature The Consuélas a local duo who are performing at the Royal Wootton Bassett Christmas Lights switch on. All that remains is for me to wish our readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at the Town Crier. Until next time . . .
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Annie
TownCr er magazine
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Deadline for submissions for the January/February 2015 issue: 1st December 2014 Editor: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: steven@towncriermagazine.com Artwork: production@towncriermagazine.com CONDITIONS OF ADVERTISING: The Editor reserves the right to refuse any copy which she feels may not be appropriate material for print. No responsibility will be taken for any damage or loss of material caused by inaccuracy or omission of any advertisement.Artwork prepared by us remains the property of The Town Crier Magazine and reproduction in any form is expressly forbidden without prior permission from the Editor. We provide artwork free of charge and where possible we will adhere to your request on layouts and type, but we cannot guarantee an exact copy. If you wish to produce your own artwork to a specific layout, or have any changes to an existing advert, please ensure your copy is with us by the 1st of month prior to publication at the latest.
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11 REGULAR FEATURES 6 What’s On Local News and Events 14 Puzzle Corner Crossword/Sudoku 24 Food & Drink Choosing a Turkey 28 Recipe Custard Tart 30 Health & Beauty Liz Taylor 32 Book Reviews Chidren’s stories 42 Gardening Hedges 48 Local Pubs The Goddard Arms
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20 Children’s Toys Child’s Play! 34 Retro Sweets Ideal for Christmas 36 Greatwood Home for ex-racehorses 38 Christmas Tree Real or fake?
• Damp Proofing & Control
40 Fireworks Remember 5th November
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45 Christmas Wreaths XBox or Playstation?
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dWhat’s On What’s On
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What’s happening locally • News • Events • Charities • Clubs 70 YEARS OF MUSIC IN SWINDON
A celebration of the life of Gordon Crabbe Organist and Choirmaster at Christ Church from 1955 to 1995 on SATURDAY 15 NOVEMBER, 7pm Christ Church, Old Town An evening of music featuring organist Ian Crabbe, the combined choirs of Christ Church and Immanuel URC and members Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society. There will be a retiring collection in aid of Leukemia and Lymphoma Research
ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT ORCHESTRA
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
on 13th DECEMBER 2014 at 7.30pm At Royal Wootton Bassett Memorial Hall
Bonfire & Hallowe’en Night Saturday 8th November 4-9pm Free entry
ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT CHORAL SOCIETY
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
on MONDAY 8th DECEMBER at 7.30pm
The Methodist Church, High St, Royal Wootton Bassett Music includes Handel, Rutter, Chilcott, wide selection of Carols and invited guests including LYPS. FREE ADMISSION RETIRING COLLECTION REFRESHMENTS
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What’s On
Meeting venue at Sainsbury’s in Stratton available for use FREE to any Charitable Organisation! Sainsbury’s Stratton store is opening its doors to any charitable or community organisation which is looking for a venue in which to hold their meetings. Store Manager Val Atwill is delighted to be able to make this offer and say’s that it has come about because of the outlet’s recognition of the sterling charity work being done in the Swindon area. ‘We ourselves really enjoy getting involved with local charities,’ she adds, ‘The Jubilee Gardens Project being the latest to be nominated as our Charity of the Year and we would love it if other local organisations took advantage of our excellent facilities here in Stratton.’ The room in question is the store’s customer restaurant which will be available for free hire from 19.00 any day subject to availability. Any group wishing to take up the store’s offer is welcome to contact Mark Lewis, Restaurant Manager on 01793-828255 or, if visiting the store, speak either to Mark directly or to the customer service desk colleague.
Avon Gorge and Bristol Hotwell by JMW Turner
Turner Paintings come to Swindon Museum and Art Gallery An intimate exhibition of paintings by an artist many consider to be England’s greatest is coming to Swindon’s Museum and Art Gallery. JMW Turner is best known for his large paintings in oils, but the exhibition - entitled Turner: Watercolours from the West - shows off his formidable skills in a different medium. Six of the eight pictures were painted in Bristol when he was a young man aged between 16 and 17 and studying at the Royal Academy. None have been on regular public display. Alongside the Turners, Swindon Museum and Art Gallery will be displaying art from its own outstanding collection of 20th Century British modern art, including works by John Piper and Graham Sutherland. These artists could be regarded as the modern ‘heirs’ to Turner, as their work celebrates the beauty and diversity of the British landscape, including the rocky hillsides and waterfalls found in some of Turner’s pictures. The arrival of the Turners is the result of a new partnership between Swindon Museum & Art Gallery and four other museums and art galleries in Bristol, Bath and Cheltenham. Swindon is the second stop on the four-venue tour which began at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, where the pictures are kept. When it finishes in Swindon on 13 December it moves to the Holburne Museum in Bath in January and then to The Wilson in Cheltenham in March.
Val Atwill, Store Manager
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Turner: Watercolours from the West will be at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery until 13 December 2015. More information is available at www.swindon.gov.uk/museumandartgallery
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Nigel Havers stars as King Rat in Swindon’s own enchanting pantomime, Dick Whittington Nigel Havers has been a star of stage and screen for 40 years and is well-known for a variety of roles. On TV he is most recently known for his role as love-rat Lewis Archer in Coronation Street, for which he won Best Exit at the 2013 British Soap Awards. He also recently appeared in another of ITV’s top-shows, when he starred in the Christmas Special of Downton Abbey. Pantomime favourite David Ashley returns to Swindon as Sarah the Cook joined by Lucy Kane as Alice Fitzwarren. Lucy Kane’s mother, Linda Lusardi, and father, Sam Kane, have both performed on the Wyvern Theatre stage. Lucy explains: “Seeing my parents on stage in Panto was one of the main reasons that I wanted to become a performer. It was so inspiring to see them do a job that they love and do an amazing job of it.” Lucy has performed in shows such as Annie, Cinderella, Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs and solo at The O2 Arena and The London Palladium. Lewis Barnshaw and Suzie Chard will also join the cast, both returning to Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre having performed in pantomime there previously – Lewis as Dandini in Cinderella and Suzie as the Genie in Aladdin.
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Cast of Dick Whittington (L-R) – Kristian Morse (Dick Whittington), Lucy Kane (Alice Fitzwarren), Suzie Chard (Fairy Bowbells), David Ashley (Sarah the Cook), Nigel Havers (King Rat) and Lewis Barnshaw (Simple Simon) Photographer: Kate Bentley
This magical production will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets and fabulous costumes – plus, as is tradition with the Wyvern Theatre’s annual pantomime, Dick Whittington promises plenty of audience participation. Guaranteed to bring out the child in everyone . . . book your tickets today for the trip of a lifetime with the thrice Mayor of London! Nigel Havers will star as King Rat in Dick Whittington at the Wyvern Theatre from Sat 6 December - Sun 4 January. Book tickets today at swindontheatres.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Office on 01793 524 481
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d What’s On
Singing Saturdays! Workshops for fun and wellbeing
CHRISTMAS AT STEAM 2014 Saturday 6 - Sunday 7 December 2014
Superb Live Choir, Festive Entertainment and a Luxury Christmas Market
With Martin Hawes, Linda Lee, Kate Rowe & Vicky Sweeney leaders of Swindon Scratch Choir and Cirencester Community Choir) Calling all regular singers or those stars of the shower & car – do you fancy a Saturday afternoon sing?! Most of us don’t have to think about how to talk, laugh, shout or cough, because our body and mind work instinctively, so how come when we try to sing we think we have to do something different? We believe if you can talk you can sing! Song has always been a part of life, a way of binding the community together and it’s not about having a “good voice” or “getting it right”. For thousands of years all over the world people have sung – to express joy, celebration & grief, to accompany work (everyday tasks, sea shanties, chain gang songs etc) and to express devotion and aid healing. We aim to re-create the sense that singing together is natural and open to all and should be inclusive.
While final details are to be announced, our unique line-up begins with the beautiful heart-warming sounds of the Kentwood Choir, followed by the traditional blasts of Swindon Pegasus Brass and the hugely popular Merribels. Live performances take place in STEAM’s impressive Great Western Hall. We have concert seating and quality refreshments so you can enjoy the festivities in true style! Santa will of course be visiting. There will also be a luxury Christmas Market offering fine gifts, crafts and confectionery. Full access to the main exhibition area is included in this event and to keep energy levels topped up, the STEAM Christmas Café offers delicious festive meals and refreshments. Special admission prices apply for this event. Under threes go free. Car parking is located at the nearby Swindon Designer Outlet North Car Park. Please note there is no free parking available for this event.
There is a plethora of evidence suggesting that singing has numerous health benefits both physical and mental. It encourages good circulation, increases lung capacity and maintains active brain function. It is also instrumental in the release of endorphins (naturally occurring pain relief and our “feel-good” hormone). It’s also really good fun! We are holding 2 workshops in November offering a relaxed, friendly approach focused on singing for health, wellbeing and fun - no experience is needed, no solos and the ability to read music is not necessary. We teach pop, folk, gospel and world music all by ear
SWINDON SANTA RUN 2014
2.30 - 5pm Saturday 8th November St Bartholomew’s Hall, Rope Yard, Royal Wootton Bassett, SN4 7BW
07 December 2014 Lydiard Park, Swindon SN5 3PA
2.30 - 5pm Saturday 29th November Highworth Town Council Hall, 3 Gilberts Lane, Highworth, SN6 7FB
Join us for the annual Swindon Santa Run. An annual fixture on our calendar, last year’s Run raised a fantastic £5350 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.
You can attend either workshop, or come to both - we will be singing different songs at each. Beginners, newcomers and choir members are all equally welcome!
Run, walk, jog or stroll the 5km route around the park. Adults (16+) £15 inc. full Santa suit. Children (5-15yrs) £5 inc Santa hat. Infants (up to 4yrs) Free. Pushchairs welcome. 3km route available. Dogs welcome but must be on a lead and wearing reindeer antlers. Santa medal and goodie bag at the finish line. For details or to register visit www.swindonsanta.org.uk
Cost (please pay on the day) £10 for one workshop - or book onto both workshops for £18 (inc refreshments) BOOKINGS (please book in advance) Vicky Sweeney on 07593 833943 or email vicky@singtastic.co.uk Find out more about us at www.scratch.singtastic.co.uk
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The Consuélas!
The Consuélas (more commonly known as Charlie and Charlotte) are an acoustic female band playing covers and originals from all genres. Performing at weddings, parties, pubs and festivals they have a busy schedule but always enjoy playing locally to home.
This Christmas they’ll be performing at Royal Wootton Bassett Dickens Evening on 5th December for the Christmas lights switch on, something that they’re very much looking forward to. They’re taking bookings for the New Year so get in contact through their website: www.theconsuelas.co.uk, Facebook or Twitter!
Book us now for 2015
How did The Consuélas meet and become a band? “We both met at school through the music department and from there our friendship blossomed! Whilst at school we performed together a handful of times and had good musical chemistry. The Consuélas formed following the Royal Wootton Bassett battle of the bands which we originally entered for some fun, and ended up winning it which was a surprise to us both. We then decided that it must have been fate, and having had such good feedback we decided to give The Consuélas a go full time. We’re both at university studying at the moment so music is our ‘bit on the side’ but we’d like to write our first album next year and hopefully head back to London to work with some producers and industry experts there. To be able to do what we love full time would be incredible, and we hope that all of our hard work will soon pay off!” The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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What’s On
Run 2 Remember Sat 8 November 2014 11am-3pm at Lydiard Park
WW1 Centenary Commemoration Sunday 16th November 2-4pm St Marys Church, Lydiard Tregoze An afternoon for young and old to commemorate WW1 in story and song. Local school children will be leading the singing of WW1 Songs. 3.30pm Reflective Service Closing the Field of Remembrance in the Walled Garden, Lydiard Park.
On the day before Remembrance Sunday, you’re invited to remember a loved one, or all those who’ve fought and fallen, by running, jogging, walking or marching through Lydiard Park, near Royal Wootton Bassett. You can run 11km, 5km, or 1.1km, and the money you raise in sponsorship will support the British Legion’s work with today’s brave Service men and women past and present and their families. You can take part in running clothes, uniform, or fancy dress www.britishlegion.org.uk/ run2remember or call 0845 845 1945
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Remembrance Day Remembrance Day takes place on November 11 to mark the moment the guns of the First World War fell silent, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. The first Armistice Day was held in 1919 throughout the Commonwealth. The name changed to Remembrance Day after the Second World War. Remembrance Sunday is held on the second Sunday in November each year, with services at war memorials and churches. The poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ by Canadian surgeon John McCrae, inspired the use of the symbolic poppy. The opening lines of the poem refer to the thousands of scarlet poppies that were the first flowers to grow over the churned-up earth of the battlefields. The Queen lays the first wreath during the national ceremony at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. Money raised by the sale of poppies is used by the Royal British Legion to support servicemen and women. Tom Hancock
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Christmas at Roves Farm
Dress up & take part in our Nativity Plays with Farm Animals
Visit Father Christmas Indoor Heated Adventure Play &
Glittery Kids Craft
Indoor Farm Animals & Pets Corner
Sevenhampton, Nr. Highworth, Swindon, Wilts, SN6 7QG
01793 763939 The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
www.rovesfarm.co.uk
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d What’s On
PUZZLE CORNER
Wessex Male Choir Annual Christmas Concert 2014 Wessex Male Choir’s annual Christmas Concert will take place at St Mark’s Church, Church Place, Swindon SN1 5EH on Friday 19th December 2014. The choir will be accompanied by guest artists the Pegasus Brass Band. The concert starts at 7.30pm, with doors will open at 7.00pm. Tickets are £12 per adult (free for under 16yrs, are free though a ticket is still required to ensure a seat. Tickets are available from 01285 869955, or tickets@ wessexmalechoir.co.uk. Please bring a cushion with you for comfort.
New Musical Director WESSEX MALE CHOIR is delighted to announce the appointment of Katrine Reimers as its new Musical Director. Following a decision by Rob Elliott, choir founder and previous Musical Director, to step down at the end of 2013, Katrine was asked to take over the post and has now agreed to stay on permanently.
Down Across 1 renovate (6) 1 seldom (6) 2 courage (7) 4 principal, boss (5) 3 track and field event (4, 4) 8 builder (5) 4 serene (4) 9 acrimony, bad blood (3, 4) 5 buffoon (5) 10 complainer, grouch (7) 6 crime (U.S) (6) 11 astound (4) 7 North African country (5) 12 venomous snake (3) 13 plucking-tool (8) 14 joist (4) 16 non-partisan (7) 15 wildcat (4) 17 deadly (6) 18 investigate, intrude (3) 19 covet (5) 21 effortless (4) 20 composition, mélange (6) 23 ostracize (7) 22 scour, clean (5) 25 dock, port (7) 24 physical, mental and spiritual 26 countrified (5) discipline (4) 27 seventh zodiac sign (5) 28 utilize (6) Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 25
Katrine, with extensive experience from national opera and community music groups, has brought a fresh approach to male voice singing - including a lightness of touch and a deeper understanding of the music - which Wessex choristers have embraced with enthusiasm. The proof has been in the choirs’ recent sell out concerts, which has attracted a large number of prospective new choristers. Wessex rehearses in the Abbey Meads Church, Abbey Meads Village Centre, Elstree Way, North Swindon SN254YX on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm. Any male over 18yrs who is keen to learn more about the choir is encouraged to visit their website at www. wessexmalechoir.co.uk or contact the membership secretary at membership@wessexmalechoir.co.uk
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Ask AMS Advice for small businesses Auto-Enrolment Pension Scheme for Small Businesses Explained! The point of this scheme is to encourage everyone to pay more towards their pension, reducing pressure on the State. Under Auto-enrolment, UK businesses employing one or more “workers” will have to enrol them into a pension scheme from a pre-defined “staging date”. Workers can opt out of the scheme – but only after you have enrolled them. There is a timetable for businesses to set up pension arrangements under Autoenrolment. You can find your “staging date” if you enter your PAYE reference into www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk/employers/tools/staging-date.aspx No employees
If you are a director of a Company with no employees (assuming you haven’t issued yourself a formal contract of employment), then your Company is counted as having no “workers”. This means you are not required to take any notice of Auto-enrolment. It’s good news because you won’t have to get involved with any extra administration.
If you have low paid employees
You don’t have to automatically enrol employees who earn less than £10,000/year but they can join if they choose to. If, say, you employ your spouse or partner earning less than £10,000/year, you can make your own pension arrangements without engaging in the Autoenrolment scheme but remember, if you have other employees they have the right to join.
Higher earning employees and NEST (National Employment Savings Trust)
If you do have employees earning over £10,000 p.a. you will need to auto-enrol them. You will also need to choose a pension scheme provider. It is possible that some pension companies will not be interested in running extremely small pension schemes. NEST is a Government backed pension scheme that you could use, however, you can’t transfer funds from another pension scheme into a NEST scheme and you cannot transfer funds out of NEST. It is less flexible than other pension schemes where you can transfer funds from one to scheme to another.
For more Ask AMS articles visit www.ams-accountancy.co.uk
Peter Bromiley ACA AMS Accountancy Ltd. Swindon SN5 7XF. 01793 818400 www.ams-accountancy.co.uk
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South Marston C of E Village School
Volunteers needed to support people in Wiltshire Craft Stalls, Father Christmas & His Winter Wonderland, Refreshment, Mulled Wine, School Choir, Festive Suprises & Lots More
SWAN ADVOCACY is seeking to recruit and train volunteers who have the passion and skills to make a real difference through our ‘Dementia Advocacy Project’. The Project, funded by the Lloyds Bank Foundation, will support individuals experiencing memory loss or in the early stages of dementia living in some of the most isolated, rural areas of Wiltshire. Project lead, Sarah Ride, says “The aim of the project is to ensure that individuals are supported to raise concerns about their health, access the services that they want and are able to make informed choices about their future. We will initially be offering the service in Marlborough, Pewsey, Durrington, Upavon, Tisbury and Dinton as well as the surrounding villages and hamlets. We are keen to hear from people living in and around those areas who may be interested in undertaking the training to become volunteer advocates.” Swan Advocacy offers comprehensive induction and ongoing nationally recognised advocacy training in exchange for a commitment for our volunteers to support clients on a flexible basis as the need arises and to participate in the supervision and support provided. Whilst experience is not required we are looking for people who are good communicators and have a positive attitude towards old age, illness or disability. If you are interested in volunteering, or in accessing the service, contact Swan Advocacy on 01722 341851. www.swanadvocacy.org.uk
CHARITY CHRISTMAS MARKET at Christ Church, Cricklade Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 3HB Saturday 22 November 2014 10am-3pm Refreshments Bell tower open Christ Church choir sing carols at 2pm Organised by the Friends of Christ Church
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Simeon Vellani Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
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The Mobility Store | Unit 9a Ellendune Shopping Centre | WROUGHTON | SN4 9LN NEXT TO TESCO - FREE LEVEL PARKING | Tel: 01793 815083 56 George Lane | MARLBOROUGH | SN8 4BY | Tel: 01672 511550 Lansdowne | BOURTON ON THE WATER | GL54 2AR | Tel: 01451 810088 www.thehearingandmobilitystore.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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RE TA NO SI KIN W DE G NT S
Methodist Homes (MHA) Registered as a Charity - No. 1083995. Company Limited by Guarantee - No. 40431
The Fairways MHA, Malmesbury Road, Chippenham, Wilts. SN15 5LJ Tel: 01249 461239 www.mha.org.uk Situated close to the attractive town of Chippenham, The Fairways is a 60 place care home, overlooking the attractive adjoining golf course. The care home has now welcomed its first residents.
The Fairways Care Home is simply beautiful, described by many as looking more like a 5 star hotel and is surrounded by attractive and well-maintained gardens. The dedicated and well trained care team are only too happy to help and nothing is too much trouble. The Fairways has an impressive range of facilities offering residents the opportunity to live a fulfilled and active life and receive full and expert care when needed.
Communal Facilities: • Swimming Pool • Gym & Jacuzzi • Cinema • Snooker room • Library/IT area • Hair and Beauty Salon • Assisted bathroom • Conventional bathroom • Resident’s Lounges 18
• Bistro Café • Stunning Atrium - with activity and sitting areas • En suite guest room • Shop • Superbly located, close to the town centre • Fitted kitchens
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
• Indoor and outdoor communal areas for shared use and socialising • Landscaped grounds and gardens • Car parking • Lift and wheel chair access throughout
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01249 811068
WWW. TOWNCRIERMAGAZINE.COM
v Brand New State of the Art Care Home v Dementia Care Specialists v Superb Facilities
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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d Christmas
Get Crafty Kids! by Debbie Singh-Bhatti
E
VERY Christmas as a child I received a new colouring book and set of crayons with which I spent many happy hours sprawled on the living room floor colouring in the pictures. As the years progressed, the colouring book was replaced with a series of craft sets, and I remember one year spending ages knitting an extremely long scarf! Crafting helps children to develop their imagination, express themselves and explore new ideas or concepts. The creative process brings feelings of satisfaction and pleasure, and builds children’s confidence in their ability to make their own decisions and choices. Crafting is a great way to learn how to solve problems, follow directions and develop skills such as cutting, measuring, gluing and sewing. It can also give family members the chance to spend quality time together in a shared activity. Christmas offers children the opportunity to hand make gifts for friends and family members. From home-baked treats to a painted plant pot or a decorated photo frame, there is no end to the possibilities. Craft sets also make ideal stocking fillers and promise hours of entertainment. Loom bands are extremely popular right now, knitting is enjoying a revival, finger puppets are always lots of fun and card-making, jewellery kits and scrap books are guaranteed winners. You could also consider science and modelling kits. Have fun getting crafty this Christmas!
Toys For Boys?
M
Y sister and I grew up with an older brother and we thought nothing of spending Saturday afternoons sprawled on the living room carpet, constructing items out of his beloved Lego. His creations were always more ambitious and sophisticated than ours of course – windmills and tractors and mansions with masses of rooms compared with our rather mundane boxlike structures. Occasionally we would ditch the Lego for a session on his Scalextric racing set. We hadn’t a hope of winning, but we certainly enjoyed trying! It never once occurred to me that I was playing with ‘boy toys’ which is maybe why, when I became mother to four daughters, I happily bought them their own sets of Lego along with other ‘boyish’ toys such as remote control cars, science sets and basketball nets (they had their fair share of dolls, prams and jewellery kits too!). Like it or not, the society we live in stereotypes children according to their gender. Manufacturers influence their choice of toys with labels identifying items such as dolls and tea sets as ‘girl toys’ in their pretty pink packaging, and cars and construction sets as ‘boy toys’ in their predominantly blue wrappers. There is evidence to suggest that girls and boys do naturally select different types of toys. Experiments conducted on primates concluded that male monkeys were drawn to boy-toys like cars whilst female monkeys preferred girl-toys like dolls. There are various explanations about why boys and girls have different toy preferences. One theory suggests it is due to testosterone levels, whilst another attributes it to the way the brains are ‘differently-wired’, and there’s no doubt that nurture and socialisation also play a part. Regardless of the reason, the consensus of opinion is that if children are offered a wide range of toys and experiences, they will develop into more rounded individuals with an expanded range of thinking and skills. Just as playing with girl-toys like dolls and tea sets fosters the development of verbal and social skills that might be useful to the male population, playing with boy-toys like cars can help girls with the acquisition of spatial skills. Other ‘boy-toys’ like science sets, Lego, Meccano and K’nex help develop STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills of which there is currently a shortage in the UK workforce - and why shouldn’t girls develop these just as much as their male counterparts?! Some may argue – and I’m probably one of them – that at the end of the day whether male or female, children will be children and will naturally choose the toys that interest them the most. The important thing is to at least give them that choice!
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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Ideal Christmas Gift
Children learn about life through play. Playing games develops the imagination and boosts key skills such as creativity and problemsolving as well as giving children an opportunity to explore feelings, cultivate social skills and promote independence. Your encouragement and interest in your child’s learning is vital in giving them confidence and boosting their self-esteem.
We HELP Make Learning Fun Open: Tues to Sat 10:30am - 4:30pm Craft Village (Butterfly World), Wroughton SN4 9QT
We HELP Make Learning Fun Open: Tues to Sat 10:30am - 4:30pm Craft Village (Butterfly World), Wroughton SN4 9QT
Numeracy Games & Resources
Spelling Games & Resources
Handwriting Aids
Numeracy Games & Resources
RewardGames Charts Spelling & Resources Books & Bibles Handwriting Aids Reward Arts Charts & Crafts Books & Bibles Arts & Crafts
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Whatever your child’s interest, GoldenTime Toys can help you with their development. We offer a fantastic range of games and resources that are fun to play and provide substantial educational benefits. At our shop, you will find games that support Early Years Learning and the National Curriculum covering: Numeracy, Literacy, R.E, Science, Geography, History and Art & Craft. Children learn best when they are having fun - so come and visit us today…and make the most of playtime!
Tel: 0845 475 8697 www.goldentimetoys.co.uk Bring this advert with you and receive a 5% discount on your purchase! TO ADVERTISE CALL 01249 811068
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Holiday homes for man's best friend! Swindon based Wagging Tails offers dog owners in the SN postcode area a home based alternative to kennels and has been shortlisted as a Finalist for Best Pet Service Business at the forthcoming 2014 Pet Industry Federation Awards. Run by Hilary Coates and her Beagle Bandit, Wagging Tails launched in Swindon in May to gives dogs their very own holiday when their owners go away. Despite only having been operating for four months Hilary has already received glowing feedback from owners and her business has recently been listed as a finalist for Pet Service Business of the year at the 2014 Pet Industry Federation Awards. Swindon dog owner Caroline who has used Wagging Tails said of the service, “I would not hesitate to recommend your service and cannot stress the difference a home carer made for Alfie’s experience and also our holiday know we had done the best for our baby!”
Dogs staying with Wagging Tails’ enjoy a holiday as the only guest in the home of a specially selected dog carer. All carers are current or former dog owners, are at home during the day, have been licenced by their local council and are fully insured. Wagging Tails’ carers are typically former dog owners who are no longer able to take on the responsibility that goes with full time ownership but still love having dogs in their lives. Many liken the role to that of a grandparent as they welcome guest dogs into their homes for their holidays. Debbie, a carer in Swindon, says, “After having dogs for 16 years and sadly losing our dog about 2 years ago becoming a Wagging Tails carer was the next best thing for me.” Niki, also from Swindon, said a highlight for her is; “Being greeted by a waggy tail in the morning and having a ‘doggy companion’ on a part time basis”. Carers must have a secure and dog friendly home and garden, no children under the age of 6 and be at home during the day. Hilary ensures that all carers are insured and have been licensed by their local council (a legal requirement) before matching appropriate dogs to each carer.
As well as the companionship of the dogs they are looking after carers receive a small payment for looking after the dogs in their care. To find out more about Wagging Tails please give Hilary a ring on 01793 874 777, email sn@waggingtailsuk.co.uk or visit www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk/sn
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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Does your pet have aches and pains?
Then welcome to the ARK, our unique clinic extending the level of care beyond most veterinary practices - Hydrotherapy - Acupuncture - K.Laser - Massage - Physiotherapy Come and meet our professionals Telephone 01793 511267 39B Station Road, Royal Wootton Bassett, SN4 7ED
www.thameswoodvets.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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d Christmas
How to Choose a Turkey, Duck or Goose
We all want our Christmas dinner to be special and a meal to remember for the right reasons! So how can you make sure that your bird is the best choice?
Look for birds with unblemished skin, and if buying fresh check whether they will be dressed or whether you will need to do additional preparation.
First take the time to buy your meat from a source you trust. You might prefer a trusted butcher, farm shop or mail order company.
Consider carefully the size of the bird you require. General recommendations allow around half a pound or 225 g per person for boneless meat and three quarters of a pound or 340g per person for meat with a bone in. Of course appetites vary and you may want to buy larger deliberately, in order to have enough for leftovers.
Knowing how your meat has been reared and where it came from can help you determine the likely quality of the meat. Usually higher quality comes from younger animals that are subject to greater welfare standards. Of course prices will also reflect this so battery-reared birds will be much cheaper than those which have been subject to a mainly organic diet and free-roaming.
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Choose well and enjoy your Christmas Dinner!
by Susan Brookes-Morris
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DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR/REPLACE Windows, glass units, all Doors, repaired, replaced or serviced no call out charge
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We offer
01793FIXED 433705 FEES Will Writers and LPA Specialists
Farsight Wills
FREE HOME VISITS 32-33 Commercial Road Swindon, SN1 5NS
Do you have a Lasting Power of Attorney? An LPA means that you can nominate someone you trust to look after your personal affairs if you are incapacitated by injury or illness, such as a Stroke, Dementia or Alzheimers.
Without an LPA your finances, including all those held jointly will be frozen. Your family could be prevented from making any decisions on your behalf. Your day to day care could be in the hands of strangers. We offer fixed fees and FREE HOME VISITS if required.
Farsight Wills Ltd is an appointed representative of New Leaf Will Writers Federation Ltd. Company Registration No.7891401
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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Our Asia Destinations BALI BHUTAN CAMBODIA HONG KONG INDIA LAOS MALAYSIA MYANMAR NEPAL SINGAPORE THAILAND VIETNAM
Cannon Travel has been an established independent travel agents for over 35 years in Royal Wootton Bassett. Our staff have over 100 years combined experience and have travelled extensively throughout the world and are able to give you the first hand knowledge you require when planning your holiday. Amongst us we have worked Overseas, travelled on various familiarisation trips and personal holidays. This month our feature adverts are with three companies that we work very closely with, Titan Travel, Saga Cruises and If Only. Titan Travel are one of the UK’s leading specialist in escorted touring holidays. Whether its by road, rail, ocean or river Titan Travel have something for everyone. What is extra special about Titan is that you get door to door transfers no matter where you live in the UK. Some of the destinations they feature range from the Rockies in Canada, National parks in America, numerous itineraries within Europe, perhaps take a trip down under to Australia or New Zealand or if you fancy going on safari in Africa Titan have tours to suit all. Titan travel also specialise in River and ocean cruising. They have their 6 star Uniworld river cruises which we have booked many clients on and received wonderful feedback. Their key features are All Inclusive board basis, luxurious staterooms, world class dining, included excursions and no single supplements on selected departures. Titan also offer 4 star river cruises so whether its the Danube, Rhine or perhaps the Douro you fancy let Titan Travel take you. Our second feature company this month is Saga Cruises. The Saga Sapphire was launched in 2012. It has extremely spacious cabins, first class on board service and a great choice of restaurants and public rooms. They are exclusive to passengers aged 50 and above ,so you won’t find your enjoyment spoiled by young children and teenagers. The Saga Pearl ll is a smaller ship with a yacht like ambience. She can take you to the destinations that other bigger ships cant. With both these cruises liners there are lots of no fly cruises which are very popular with our customers. When you book these cruises with Titan you get your door to door transfers included
Call Cannon Travel on
01793 852261
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Our third feature company this month is If Only. This is a company that we love working with. They are a tailormade company who specialise in luxury holidays to Arabia, Indian Ocean and Asia. Why not Escape the winter blues by heading to Dubai or perhaps Abu Dhabi. Winter is the perfect time to go here as the temperature is ideal this time of year and the flight time is only 7 hours. It is hot all year round but the temperature soars in the summer months. Dubai or Abu Dhabi is a contrast of city life, culture , high end service in beautiful hotels and of course lets not forget the beaches. TO ADVERTISE CALL 01249 811068
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beach escapes. Why not stop for a while in the lively metropolis of Kuala Lumpur in neighbouri Malaysia. See the lush tea plantations of the Cameron highlands or head to Langkawi with its white sands and mangrove forests or maybe go to Borneo and get up close and friendly with some Orangutans. Then you have Vietnam, stay overnight on a junk and sail around Halong Bay, Chill out for a few days on the beach in Hoi An and see the chi chi tunnels outside Saigon or the famous Mekong Delta with miles of inter-connecting cana and rivers. Why not extend your stay and head to Cambodia for a few days to Cannon Travel has been an established independent travelto see the temples. Angkor Wat agents for over 35 years in Royal Wootton Bassett. Our Perhaps head to China with its capital city of Beijing where you will visit all of the staff have over 100 years combined experience and have UNESCO World Heritage sites which include; the Forbidden City, the travelled extensively throughout the world. famous We can give you the first hand knowledge you require when planning Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace of course the Great Wall. Take a flight t New forand 2015 your holiday. Amongst us we have worked the overseas, ancient city of Xian and be amazed at the sight of the 6000 Terracotta travelled on various familiarisation trips and personal Warriors. Perhaps Ifholidays. you want to venture further afield then why not head over take a cruise down the Yangtze or head to Chengdu to see th pandas. Your choice is endless. to Asia . Combine a few nights perhaps in Kuala Lumpur
Great Cities of Eastern Canada
ThisBangkok, month our feature specialists in the Caribbean, Asia and or Headadverts northareup to Chang Mai to visit theGreat tribal Rail Journeys. What better place to escape the Winter Blues than the Caribbean or people, wonderful markets, do a bit or go on to fly? Then sit back on a train and watch the countryside whiz by. Asia. The Caribbean is a firm favourite of ours. Withof itsrafting idyllicDon't beaches, glittering want white sands, coconut tree lined head coasts and colourful reefs. What's to like! some elephants. Then down to one ofMeet thenotpicturesque with Nova tour guide in StScotia Pancras and let them escort you from start t Between us all in the office we have been to all the Caribbean islandsyour . Comepersonal and islands and just chill out on the beach. If you want tocan go out see us so we can share our experiences of the Caribbean with you andGreat we finish. Rail Journeys have wonderful escorted holidays around Britain and * advise you on which Caribbean island would be the perfect one for you whether it and about It is such good value for money. You will have a extensively would be Antigua - with its 365 beaches, Cuba - Rum and Cigars, Barbados - throughout Europe and Worldwide. If you fancy a river cruise they ha beautiful mealStfor such a reasonable price. Swim with Turtles, Lucia - its own rainforest, Jamaica - Waterfalls, Bahamas -
15 days from £1999
a diverse Swim with Dolphins, Cayman Islands - Divers Paradiseor Tobago with all itsrange spices. of river3 cruise nightsitineraries. Toronto • 1 night Ottawa
To completely chill out head to the Maldives. Take your 2 nights Montreal • 2 nights Quebec City Thailandoff is the landpick of a thousand smiles receive the warmest shoes and them up onwhere the you waywillhome. With some ourselves on1giving personal and exceptional service. We go the extra welcome. From Bangkok to the jungles of Northern ThailandWe to thepride most exotic night Edmundston • 1 night Moncton of the best snorkeling, pristine white sand beaches and beach escapes. mile by not only booking your holiday, we will take care of all your visa Why not stop for a while in the lively metropolis of Kuala Lumpur in neighbouring amazing water bungalows this is just the place to kick back. 2 nights Baddeck • 1 night Halifax requirements, pre book your seats on flights and print off your boarding passes f Malaysia. See the lush tea plantations of the Cameron highlands or head to IfLangkawi Culture yourand thing thenforests If Only alsogooffers some withisitsmore white sands mangrove or maybe Borneo and Includes 9passenger excursions, entrancesforand you.toWe will do your advanced information all visits the airlines and cru wonderful tours destinations like India, Cambodia, get up close and friendlyinwith some Orangutans. Then you have Vietnam, stay overnight on a junk and sail around Halong Bay, companies at no additional charge. So sit back and relax and let us tailor make Burma, Vietnam or Malaysia. Chill out for a few days on the beach in Hoi An and see the chi chi tunnels
your dream holiday knowing that your money is financially protected by ABTA. O
outside Saigon or the famous Mekong Delta with miles of inter-connecting canals We haveWhy extensive of tothese companies sotocall and rivers. not extendknowledge your stay and head Cambodia for a few days philosophy is to find you the holiday of a life time and all travel arrangements be Angkor seeand the temples. in andWat seetous let us find you your perfect itinerary. You suited to your Perhaps head to China with its capital city of Beijing where you will visit all of the can also visit our new website at www.cannontravel.biz to personal requirements - at the most realistic price available. famous UNESCO World Heritage sites which include; the Forbidden City, the browse offersPalace andand theof different types holidays Temple of holiday Heaven, Summer course the Great Wall.ofTake a flight to the ancient city of Xian and be amazed at the sight of the 6000 TheTerracotta Caribbean and Asia are of course perfect destinations for your honeymoon. that we offer. Warriors. Perhaps take a cruise down the Yangtze or head to Chengdu to see the
Why not call in and see our vast display of wedding vouchers or we can
pandas. Your choice prides is endless.itself on giving personal and Cannon Travel personalise a voucher to go with your design on your invitation. exceptional Weongoa train theand extra mile by not only Don't want to fly?service. Then sit back watch the countryside whiz by. Meet your personal tour guide in St Pancras and let them escort you from start booking your holiday We will take care of all your visa to finish. Great Rail Journeys have wonderful escorted holidays around Britain and you book with us we take care of you from start to finish. We work with a requirements, pre book seatsIf on and print extensively throughout Europe andyour Worldwide. you flights fancy aWhen river cruise they off have a diverse range of river cruise itineraries. lot advanced of the smaller specialist tour operators who are extremely knowledgeable and your boarding passes for you. We will do your passenger information for all airlines and cruise passionate We pride ourselves on giving personal andthe exceptional service. We go the extraabout their destinations. Below are a selection of the operators who w QUÉBEC mile by not onlyat booking your holiday, we will take So caresit of all your visa companies no additional charge. back and work veryrelax closely with. requirements, pre book your seats on flights and print off your boarding passes for 1 Edmundston Québec City and letwill usdotailor make your dream holiday you. We your advanced passenger information for allknowing the airlines and cruise 2 that youratmoney is financially protected Our companies no additional charge. So sit back and relax by and ABTA. let us tailor make Baddeck 2 Ottawa your dream holiday knowing is financially protected ABTA. Our 2 philosophy is to find that youyour themoney holiday of a life timebyand 1 1 Montréal philosophy is to find you the holiday of a life time and all travel arrangements best ONTARIO Moncton 1 all travel arrangements best yourprice personal suited to your personal requirements - atsuited the mostto realistic available. Halifax requirements - at the most realistic price available. 3 The Caribbean and Asia are of course perfect destinations for your honeymoon.
Why notyou call inbook and seewith our vast of wedding we can When usdisplay we take care vouchers of youorfrom start personalise a voucher to go with your design on your invitation. to finish. We work with a lot of the smaller specialist Whenoperators you book withwho us we are take extremely care of you fromknowledgeable start to finish. We work with a tour and lot of the smaller specialist tour operators who are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about their destinations. Below areoperators a selection passionate about their destinations. Below are a selection of the who we of workoperators very closely with. the who we work very closely with.
Toronto
1
Includes Titan’s renowned VIP Home Departure Service as standard†
For more information contact Cannon Travel on 01793 852261 1 Borough Fields | Royal Wootton Bassett | Swindon Wiltshire | SN4 7AX
11 Borough Fields, Borough Fields | Royal Wootton Bassett | Swindon Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire Wiltshire | SN4 7AX SN4 7AX | 01793 852261 www.cannontravel.biz 01793 852261 | www.cannontravel.biz towncrier@cannontravel.biz towncrier@cannontravel.biz The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
* Departs June, August and September 2015
01793 | www.cannontravel.biz Conditions apply Prices are852261 subject to availability. towncrier@cannontravel.biz †
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01249 811068
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Cannon Travel 215x76 290914.indd 1
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30/09/2014 11:05
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Food & Drink
Egg Custard Tart Who doesn’t love a delicate custard tart? Serves: 6 Preparation time: 30 mins Cooking time: 30 mins
Ingredients: 150g / 6 oz plain flour Pinch of salt 75g /3oz butter or an equal mix of butter and lard, cubed 2 - 3 tbsp cold water 3 large eggs, plus 2 large egg yolks, lightly beaten 55 g / 2 oz caster sugar 570 m1 / 1 pint single / light cream 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional – makes it sweeter) 1/2 teaspoon whole nutmeg, freshly grated Method: Heat the oven to 220°C/Gas 7 For the pastry Place the flour, butter and salt into a large bowl. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Be careful not to over-rub. Add the cold water to the mixture a small amount at a time, and using a round-bladed knife, stir until the dough binds together. Wrap the dough in clingfilm and chill for a minimum of 15 minutes, up to 30 minutes. Gently roll out the pastry to line a 1½”/4 cm deep, x 7”/18 cm base tart tin. Brush the pastry all over with a little of the beaten egg. This will help seal the pastry during cooking. Place the pastry in the fridge while you make the filling. For the filling In a large bowl beat the eggs and egg yolks lightly with the sugar. Warm the cream to a gentle simmer, then pour slowly over the beaten eggs, stirring constantly. Be careful not to overheat the cream or it will curdle the eggs. Add the vanilla extract if you are using. Pour the egg and cream mixture through a sieve into the pastry case. Sprinkle over the grated nutmeg. Place the tart onto a baking sheet and bake in the centre of the preheated oven for 10 minutes to brown the pastry. Lower the temperature to 180°C/Gas 4 and continue cooking for a further 20 minutes or until the custard is set.
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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Kitchen Makeover
Are your kitchen cabinets OK, but the doors and drawer fronts are looking a little tired? Why not consider replacing them?
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Rivermead Dr, Westlea, SN5 7EX . Free Parking
Break your nail biting habit & achieve Totally Divine nails ♥ Natural looking, lightweight With a new worktop to match, you could achieve the look of a new stylish kitchen, saving you time, money and a lot of upheaval Complete Kitchens & Bedrooms also available.
Call Peter on: 01793 741234 www.petergalbraith.co.uk
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Nail Enhancements ♥ No harm to your nails growing underneath ♥ Length and shape to suit you ♥ Achieve your own beautiful nails over time
01793 781238
totallydivine.net
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Health & Beauty
Positive Mind… Positive Christmas…
Seven ways to avoid overindulging this Christmas
by Liz Taylor
Health, Wellness, Beauty & Lifestyle Advisor missliztaylor@hotmail.com
In a new Health, Wellness, Beauty & Lifestyle column for the Town Crier, Liz Taylor looks at Christmas overindulgence and tells of her own experience.
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HE dictionary definition of overindulgence: excessive, desire, binge – does that sound like you during the festive holidays? What can we do to curb this strange compulsion that slips into our stomachs and minds during this time? There are some simple actions we can put in place that don’t cost a penny - all that is needed is strong willpower. And remember it’s OK to want to stay healthy throughout the festive season – it’s all about CHOICE!
My Story ... On the 23rd December 2012 I knew exactly how uncomfortable my waistband was going to be over the next couple of weeks. I made a pact with myself that I was never going to have that uncomfortable bloated feeling ever again. I started with my mindset, positivity, self development, affirmations and three litres of water a day. Two stone lighter, feeling super positive, fit and loving life I now know it all comes down to the training the MIND first and foremost. 30
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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Drink a large glass of water instead of reaching for snack foods, this can buy you time to evaluate whether you are really hungry or if your body is simply telling you it needs hydrating. Large plates are very fashionable, so be mindful and only use the inner circle of the plate to hold the food. My tip is to buy yourself a small, pretty individual plate just for yourself. It’s not just food, alcohol can make you feel uncomfortable too. By diluting the alcoholic beverage you instantly cut down on the alcohol content and in turn you create a longer drink. Add a soft mix and plenty of ice to shorts, lemonade to beers and soda to white wine. Avoid eating simple carbohydrates like bread, rice, pasta and cereals after 6pm – this has worked wonders for me. Share the chocolates rather than eat the whole box. A 20 minute brisk walk can curb your appetite. If you have no willpower there are a selection of products on the market which will help you feel fuller and can help reduce your calorific intake (when used in accordance with the instructions).
More tips for a healthy mind & lifestyle in the next issue.
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Classic & & Contemporary Classic Contemporary
Hand Bags, Hand Bags, Shoes Shoes Accessories && Accessories
Irregular Choice Shoes £79.99 Luxury Rebel Shoes £97.00
Casual mens and ladies clothing also available
Casual mens and ladies clothing also available
We are proud to be one of only 4 stockists
of GEORGE, GINA & LUCY in only the UK We are proud to be one of 4 stockists of GEORGE, GINA & LUCY in the UK
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Ideal Christmas Gift
Call 01793 976672 or 07814 648600
Call 01793 976672 The Arcade, Unit 8/9 or 07814 648600 Apsley House, 50 High The Arcade, Unit 8/9 Steet, Royal Wootton Bassett Apsley House, 50 High Steet, www.katwalkcasa.co.uk Royal Wootton Bassett info@katwalkcasa.co.uk
Garcia Navy Sleeveless Dress £55.99
www.katwalkcasa.co.uk info@katwalkcasa.co.uk
George, Gina & Lucy Bag Was £85.00 now £68.00!
PIT White Dress Was £72.99 now £58.00! (Orange Jacket not included)
Katwalk Casa is an exciting fashion boutique with a stylish continental look and feel offering a wide range of high quality fashion and timeless accessories. We designed our shop to reflect both Annamaria’s love for Italian taste and classic style and Mary’s keen sense of quirky fashion! We have a unique collection of products and stylish fashion for both men and women, in particular some emerging international brands. We also have several well known brands as well such as Smith & Canova, POD's for men and Irregular Choice. We aim to offer a range of fashion and accessories, which is unique, stylish and reasonably priced. We take the time, care and effort into sourcing products from across Europe and the UK to bring you that something different. We hope to provide you with a one stop opportunity for all your fashion needs and invite you to browse Katwalk Casa's stunning collection! The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Classic & Contemporary
Hand Bags, Shoes & Accessories Casual mens and ladies clothing also available
Garcia Men’s Chunky Marine Cardigan We are proud to be one of only 4 stockists of GEORGE, GINA & LUCY in£74.99 the UK
Call 01793 976672 or 07814 648600 The Arcade, Unit 8/9 Apsley House, 50 High Steet, Royal Wootton Bassett www.katwalkcasa.co.uk info@katwalkcasa.co.uk
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Christmas
Smelly Bill’s Smelliest Stories Daniel Postgate
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T can be difficult to choose books for newly confident readers: they are happy to say that they are ‘too big’ for picture books, but faced with a paperback novel they can feel out of their depth. So, this omnibus edition of Smelly Bill stories is perfect. It’s shaped like an ordinary paperback, but with a generous balance of pictures and text, it is an ideal ‘halfway house’ choice.
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Share a story This Christmas why not
Sharing stories with your child Strengthens your relationship Reading together lets you slow down and creates some quiet time in a busy day. Enjoying a book together brings you closer. Boosts academic achievements Many scientific studies have shown that children exposed to reading early in life are more likely to do well in all areas of education. Improves basic speech skills While you’re reading The Gruffalo for the gazillionth time, your child is reinforcing the basic sounds that form language. Teaches kids that reading is fun! Reading with children helps them see books as an indulgence, not a chore. Children exposed to reading are more likely to choose books over video games, television, and other forms of entertainment as they grow older.
Supertato Sue Hendra
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Improves mastery of language Toddlers who shared books with their parents and siblings, develop a better grasp of the fundamentals of language as they approach school age. Enhances concentration and discipline Toddlers may initially squirm and become distracted during story time, but gradually they learn to listen. They develop self-discipline, longer attention span, and better memory retention, which are all valuable skills in school.
by Sarah Davey The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Each story moves along at a rattling pace; keeping the reader’s interest, while slipping in a range of different vocabulary. Not only will young readers laugh a lot, they will also learn a range of new words as they go. And given the charming nature of every tale, you won’t mind taking over if it gets too tricky.
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Helps with learning to read Children aren’t born knowing that text is read from left to right, or that the words on a page are separate from the images. Essential pre-reading skills like these are among the major benefits of reading with your child.
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The book contains three Smelly Bill stories, each told in lively rhyme. The first introduces our hero, the scruffiest and stinkiest dog in town, and his arch enemy, the determined Great Aunt Bleach, who battle over Bill’s bath. In the second story Bill calls on his friends (including Stagnant Stan and Putrid Pete) for support, only to find that an army of aunties await, clutching their bottles of shampoo and bars of soap. And, in the final instalment, Bill finds love with Peachy Snugglekins, forcing him to clean up his act, if only temporarily.
UE Hendra will be familiar to parents everywhere as the creator of Barry, Keith and Norman – a fish, a cat and a slug respectively, all with rather odd features. Her latest creation is Supertato – a crime fighting superhero who just happens to be a spud. Strange? Not if you have already read about the fish with fingers! As Hendra points out at the start, some vegetables are frozen for a good reason. The supermarket is thrown into chaos when a pea escapes from the freezer, intent on causing mayhem. Luckily Supertato is there to save the day, facing up bravely to the threat of the masher in order to ensure that the veggies can live safely again. Be warned, though – some editions of the book come with stickers. Once they have finished laughing, your children may find them. And you may be summoned downstairs to a decorated kitchen with the words, ‘Mummy, there seems to be an escapee (geddit?) on the loose…’ To be honest, if they can get that absorbed in the book, it has to be a good thing!
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Bush-hog Tails Victoria Harwood
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USH-HOG TAILS is a story about a lovable new kind of creature. From the first sighting of the little Bush-hog he can often be mistaken as a hedgehog, but this cute thing is in fact nothing like a hedgehog! He is smaller, extremely clever, can speak many languages and has metal spikes which only really come out if the Bush-hog is afraid. Bushy meets a cat called Fluffy who attempts to eat him but soon comes to realise that it won’t be that easy! So instead they become good friends and embark on many adventures together, meeting other animals and making new friends. The author, Victoria Harwood, hopes that the characters touch the hearts of both children and adults. Her stories have magic, animal education and humour included in the hope that they will delight and inspire children, keeping them enchanted by the mishaps of the characters. Victoria has drawn all the illustrations using charcoal and crayon, carefully scanning them to avoid smudging ready for publication. Victoria will be soon launching her second book - Bush-hog Tails: Bushy’s Field Adventure which has the little Bush-hog discovering new and exciting things. Victoria hopes that this will become a series of books so that her love for animals and writing can continue to be shared with others for many years to come. You can buy Victoria’s books on Ebay or via the nottinghambooks. co.uk website. Bush-hog Tails is also on Facebook where Victoria puts interesting and unusual animal facts, updates and events dates. She has just started a new comic strip too as featured here. You can ask Victoria any question in regards to her books or her characters on Facebook or by contacting her directly on: lovebushhog@aol.co.uk
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Christmas
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Retro Sweets
This Christmas why not take your loved ones back to their happy childhood-days by buying them some retro sweets. Lots of treats from yesteryear have become available again, and you can buy them in all shapes and sizes from single items to whole boxes of your favourites, and some that are gift packaged in hampers or used to create tree or flower designs. Many of us will remember sweets such as Space Dust, Black Jacks, Flying Saucers, Refreshers, Sugar Mice, Parma Violets, Midget Gems, Wham Bars and Traffic-Light Lollies- and I could go on to name many more. For me it was a Friday treat to have 10p to spend and select carefully ‘one of those and one of those etc’ which the assistant would then place into a little white paper bag and hand over to me. I would then joyfully savour them as I walked home from school taking ages to decide in which order I’d eat them. Behind those items, all laid out in small trays on the counter, were shelves crammed with tall glass jars, containing items such as Pear Drops, 34
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
Bon-Bons, Pineapple Cubes and Cherry Lips, all of which were more commonly bought by the quarter. There are now many shops with these layouts again, selling retro sweets. These range from tiny independents to chains that have many branches across the country. They all create a sense of nostalgia, and I’ve watched grown ups get such joy in once again telling the assistant ‘I’d like one of those and one of those etc.’ They are even known to whoop with delight when they find an old favourite again for the first time.
Such retro sweets have also become firm favourites at weddings, where special candy carts are sometimes set up for guests to enjoy. So if you are old enough to remember when Snickers used to be called Marathon, chances are your friends and family are also of the right era to enjoy a Sherbet Dip liquorice stick or some Fruit Salad chews. Why not take them back to their carefree days, pop in to an old fashioned sweet shop and tick another present off the shopping list. You could also arouse the interest of your younger relatives too, who won’t familiar with these sweets but are sure to find them as delightful as we did.
By Susan Brookes-Morris
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d Greatwood
Greatwood by Sasha Thorbek Hooper, Marketing, Fundraising and PR
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REATWOOD is a unique charity based in Marlborough which needs all the help it can get to enable it to continue its superb dual rolework, using ex-racehorses to educate disadvantaged children and young adults through Equine Assisted Therapy. As a Wiltshire Council Accredited Alternative Provider of Special Educational Needs programmes, Greatwood offers a variety of unique resources to schools, teachers, parents, carers and local authorities to meet the needs of vulnerable and ‘at risk’ children and young people aged 5-24 in the community.
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
These are the very individuals who do not respond well to conventional educational settings but thrive on the tailored programmes. Via the interaction with exracehorses through Equine Assisted Therapy, Greatwood now educates and helps hundreds of children each year with special educational needs (SEN), whilst providing those horses that couldn’t be re-homed previously with a useful occupation. The horses that are cared for at Greatwood may have suffered neglect several years after their retirement from racingoften because they have been passed from owner to owner and
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Ways you can help Greatwood l MAKE A DONATION l LEAVE A LEGACY GIFT IN YOUR WILL
Donating couldn’t be easier – TEXT: GRTW20 £5 to 70070
l BECOME A FRIEND – By making a regular donation you will make a huge difference. l GIFTS IN MEMORY – Ask people to support Greatwood in memory of a loved one. l DONATE THROUGH YOUR PAYROLL – An easy, tax-free way to give regular donations. l ORGANISE YOUR OWN FUNDRAISING EVENT OR ACTIVITY – Support Greatwood’s work while having fun. l SUPPORT GREATWOOD ONLINE – There are many ways you help online, from selling your unwanted items on ebay to becoming a fan on facebook. l RE-HOME ONE OF OUR HORSES – If suitable you could become a carer for one of our horses.
have fallen into a downward spiral of neglect. But Greatwood rehabilitates them and gives them another purpose in life, using them for teaching, with direct parallels being drawn between the experiences of these horses and the students attending the courses. This is particularly pertinent to those children who may have come from the care system and find it difficult to trust or respect others; as well as engaging in nurturing, caring relationships. In helping them to learn life skills, achieve an accredited qualification, and ultimately assist them in achieving independence in adulthood. The programmes are accredited by The National Open College Network and leads to a formal qualification, which boosts the young person’s confidence in their ability to achieve success. This unique charity needs your support to enable it to continue to give both the ex-racehorses and the students another chance in life.
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
l THE GREAT WALK OF FAME – purchase a brick with your own inscription to be a lifelong feature in our new path. l VOLUNTEER FOR US – Volunteering opportunities for individuals or companies. l SPONSORSHIP – Why not sponsor an event or a race, donate a prize or supplies? l ADOPT A RETIRED RACEHORSE – Gain a friend for life for just £25 a year. l WINTER APPEAL – Help us with basic winter costs l COME TO ONE OF OUR EVENTS – Support us at our next Event or Open Day. l GIVE A COLLECTION TIN A HOME l GREATWOOD LOTTERY - Sign up today and you could win up to £1000 every week! l RECYCLE your mobile phones and ink cartridges for charity, and help raise valuable funds for Greatwood!
For more information see www.greatwoodcharity.org or contact Greatwood on 01672 514535 Reg. Charity No: 1117322
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Keeping it Real!
You can also try bending the outer branches. They should be pliable - not brittle and dry – without discoloration.
I
live in a house that is divided. My husband loves real Christmas trees but in recent years I’ve talked him around to the artificial option, believing – incorrectly as it turns out – that a reusable tree is better for the planet than one that is chopped down and discarded after a few weeks. Most artificial trees are made from PVC – one of the most non-renewable, polluting, unrecyclable materials around - and consequently their carbon footprint is ten times greater than that of real ones. Shocked into realising that my fake tree is not the morally correct choice I thought, I’m now keen to join the six million Brits who opt for a real tree at Christmas. Christmas trees spring up all over the place from late November and the quality varies greatly. Before you make your choice, do a bit of fact finding about its freshness. Ask where it was grown (UK produced trees are likely to be fresher), how long it has been in stock and when it was cut. You can carry out a couple of tests yourself. Give the tree a firm tap on the ground or run a closed hand over its branches. If lots of needles fall off, chances are it’s not that fresh.
Before leaving to make your purchase, measure the height and width of your space and take a tape measure with you to check your tree. Most are trimmed to an 80% taper, which means that a 10 foot tall tree will measure 8 feet at the bottom. You should also consider how you plan on decorating your tree. The three main species – spruce, fir and pine – all have their own characteristics. Spruces and firs have short needles whilst a pine’s are long. Pine branches tend to bend, making them unsuitable for heavier ornaments. Firs have lush branches and ornaments sometimes get lost in them. The traditional British Christmas tree, the Norway spruce, is attractive but tends to drop its needles. An alternative is a “nondrop” variety like the popular Nordmann fir, which will last longer but is more expensive. To care for your tree, cut off half an inch from the base of the trunk and place in a water-holding stand. Position the tree away from sources of heat and keep it topped up with fresh water. At present, 90% of real trees end up in landfill, so after Christmas is over try and recycle! By turning your tree into wood chippings or compost you will continue to do your bit for the environment. Hopefully with this guide choosing the family tree will be a holiday highlight, not a headache!
By Debbie Singh-Bhatti 38
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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Christmas Shopping Local handmade gifts, cots and carriers for baby dolls, toy dogs and cats in pet beds, dolls clothes to fit a wide range of dolls and Christmas Bunting all at very reasonable prices.
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Win £50 M&S Vouchers! Tell us about your business
If you run a business in Wiltshire, or the South West of England I’d like to hear from you My name is Kevin Sanders, I’m a web designer from Royal Wootton Bassett. For two years I’ve been supplying websites to businesses across Wiltshire - including the Town Crier Magazine. Now I’m looking to expand the services I offer, but to do so I need your help… I would like to invite you to take part in some market research. All you need to do is fill in a short online survey relating to business websites. It doesn’t matter if your business has one or not, I still need your opinion. It will take no longer than five minutes to complete, and your answers will be treated in confidence (that means no follow-up sales calls!) To say thank you, every business that completes the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win a set of £50 M&S vouchers. To take part, and enter the draw, please go to: www.ks-webdesigner.com/survey Thank you for your help,. For terms and conditions please see the website
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39
dFireworks! Bonfire Night
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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The Magic of Fireworks Fireworks date back to the 7th century and are thought to have been invented in China. The first fireworks in England were displayed at the wedding of King Henry VII in 1486. Now, as well as being an integral part of Bonfire Night celebrations, fireworks can often be seen at New Year, Birthday and Wedding celebrations and frequently form the finale for major events. Fireworks come in many shapes and sizes and new types are being created all the time. Some of the many varieties are: sparklers, cakes, firecrackers, cherry bombs, rockets, jumping jacks and Catherine wheels. A rocket can reach speeds of 150mph and its shell can reach as high as 200 metres. A sparkler burns at a temperature over 15 times the boiling point of water. The different effects created by fireworks have names such as ring, spider, peony, palm and horsetail. The variety of colours and noises also thrill many of us. There are now a rainbow of colours and sounds that include bangs, crackles, humming and whistles. So what happens within a firework to cause us such excitement? Each firework is a precisely formed assembly of chemicals and fuel, carefully calibrated to produce a particular effect. Fireworks consist of stars, small clay or dough-like lumps or cubes 3 to 4 cm in diameter, packed into cardboard compartments within the firework shell. Stars contain a blend of oxidizing agent,
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
reducing agent, metal salt colouring agent and binders. When ignited, the stars produce both sound and light effects. The power needed to lift each firework into the air is provided by the highly exothermic combustion of black powder. The key to firework success is to trap the heat and gas in the bottom of the shell, which is positioned in a launch tube or mortar, until the trapped gas pressure builds to such a force that when it escapes, it hurls the firework high into the air. A firework is ignited by lighting the main fuse. This simultaneously starts both the fast action fuse, and the time delay fuse. The flight of the firework is powered by a fast burning wick. Where the wick ends, it meets the high explosive components of the firework. In this second stage, there is an instantaneous detonation producing both a loud explosion and a bright flash of colour. The black powder lift-charge is calculated to exhaust itself precisely when the slowburning, time-delay fuse reaches the first compartment packed with light-producing stars and black powder. The tremendous booms heard are the result of the rapid release of energy into the air, causing the air to expand faster than the speed of sound which produces a shock wave - a sonic boom.
by Susan BrookesMorris
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Fireworks have come a long way since the ancient Chinese used red firecrackers to ward off evil spirits. Here’s a summary of the various types available: SKY ROCKET – Launched into the air it can climb up to 200 feet before exploding with a loud bang in a variety of colours and effects. A variation is the COLOSSUS which whistles as it ascends before exploding. ROMAN CANDLE – Enclosed in a cardboard casing, individual balls shoot out stars periodically after ignition. Noise effects include hums and crackles. FOUNTAIN – Enjoy the beauty but not the noise of a firework as a shower of sparks is quietly released in either a single or variety of colours.
MINE – The loudest firework, its effect is dramatic and spectacular but short-lived. The mine is shot from a mortar shell on ground level and shoots coloured stars into the sky with flashes and bangs. CATHERINE WHEEL – A tube filled with gunpowder is coiled to produce a wheel effect. When the fuse is lit, the wheel rotates at speed, producing a spiral effect of coloured flame and sparks. Noise effects include crackles and whistles. WWW. TOWNCRIERMAGAZINE.COM
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Gardening
by Lee Bestall
Hedging your bets OK, so it’s a terrible heading, but November is the perfect time for planting new hedges, and at this time of year it’s a very safe bet. Prior to the use of containerised plants (which can be planted at almost any time of the year) planting between November and March was a gardeners only option, and as far as the plants are concerned it’s still the best by far. When plants are dormant (asleep) they will hardly even notice being moved, and by spring when their new leaves emerge their roots will have already pushed through the surrounding soil in their new home. Hedges are often thought of as hard work, time consuming and have been at the centre of heated neighbourly debates (whether it’s cutting them too low or letting them grow too high). They are great for blocking out unsightly views, adding privacy, and also make a wonderful place for
have to keep its growth contained to 2m high if on a boundary (this does not apply to any other species).
wildlife to live, rest and nest. For the past 3 years we’ve had a variety of birds nesting in our Yew hedge and the addition of extra life in the garden always pleases me. If you’re looking for a quick solution to a green screen, then you have two options, either instant (such as a 2m high instant hedge, pre grown, trained and clipped, perfect for the impatient gardener), or Leylandii conifers. As I write this I can hear the screams, but it really is the best option for speed and it’s costeffective. Do be aware that legally, as of a couple of years ago, you
For the more patient gardener, try the classic evergreen Yew hedging. Like most beautiful things in life, it’s more expensive to buy. It’s also slower growing (15-30cm per year), but does only require cutting once per year in September, and will provide you with the most beautiful hedge. I also favour the evergreen Portuguese laurel, which has a smaller leaf than the more common cherry laurel, or Beech if it doesn’t need to be evergreen. For a smaller hedge it has to be Box, but alternatives include Lavender, Berberis, Lonicera, and for the perfect no-cut low hedge go for a small Hebe, (simply choose a variety which only grows to the height you actually want the hedge to grow to). Whichever hedge you choose, the ground preparation should be the same. For containerised, bare-root or root-balled hedges, dig out a trench which follows the line of the proposed hedge, this should be at least one and a half times wider and deeper than the rootball. Fork over the base of the trench and return some of the soil, so that when you plant the hedge it sits at the same level as previously planted (i.e. not too deep). Backfill with the removed soil, add a handful of bonemeal per plant, and dig in. Firm with your boot then water well before mulching with 5cm of compost, manure or bark clippings. Happy winter gardening!
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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We are an independent family owned and run agency offering over 50 years of combined property experience servicing, Royal Wootton Bassett, Purton, Lyneham, Swindon and surrounding villages. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We pride ourselves on providing our customers with a professional and personal service that only a totally committed family team can provide.
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Christmas Wreaths
Long before the introduction of central heating and other luxuries of the 21st century, people required greater faith that they would safely survive the harsh upcoming winter. One such symbolic display of this hope was the beautiful Christmas wreath. Now creeping back in fashion and available in a number of guises, they can be found hanging on doorways, both inside and out, as a centrepiece on a table, and even hung on walls as decorations. Although we may have lost the traditional reasoning behind displaying such garlands, I’m on a mission to bring them back … in whatever style suits your home. The word ‘wreath’ is linked to the word ‘wrist’, both words describing the form of a continuous circular shape. Fuse this with ‘wrethe’ from middle English (meaning a twisted band or ring of leaves) and you have the wreath as we know it today. The circular shape is symbolic of eternity, or everlasting life because it has no beginning or end. In ancient Rome the symbol became a popular display of victory. From a Christian perspective it represents the unending circle of life, with the traditional Holly as the thorns on Jesus’ crown and the red berries as his blood. At this bleak time of year, it’s wonderful to use evergreens and other brightly coloured flowers, The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
foliage, or fruits to adorn your wreath. The addition of expensive and rare fruits such as pomegranates, indicated wealth, but wreaths also included the display of pinecones, seashells and even imported products. Once the decorations had been taken down, the edible decorations would be eaten and the bounty of summer enjoyed in the depth of winter.
Making your own wreath is fun and easy, and can vary from a simple and cheap evergreen circle to an elaborate bauble ring. For those who like a quick and easy option, simply buy a circle of oasis and soak it in tepid water, before sticking in sprigs of evergreen foliage from the garden, flowers, berries, dried fruits, nuts, and bows. If you have more time why not make your own base by taking a ring of string wire and covering it in moss or hay, holding it in place using thinner gauge wire, then wiring in the foliage and decorations. Be aware though that holly wreaths are tricky and gloves should be worn! The Americans seem to be leading the way in the contemporary wreath, so why not try something a little different this year such as a circle of pine cones, dried leaves, dried sweetcorn cobs, pussy willow or even a ring of astroturf!
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Home
Dream Doors opens in Royal Wootton Bassett
Ian Sturton and his team, has opened his Dream Doors showroom on the High Street in Royal Wootton Bassett. And he already has an order book full of customers, all impressed by the franchised company’s time and moneysaving kitchen makeover service. A customer who had her kitchen doors, drawers and worktops swapped in just 2 days gave a glowing testimonial on the independent consumer monitoring website, Checkatrade, commenting: ““Excellent service, very happy with all work carried out. Fitters couldn’t do enough to make sure that I was happy and discuss every stage with me.” Another customer in Devizes who chose the same simple door replacement service gave Dream Doors top marks, writing: “Exceeded expectations! We particularly liked the fact that the estimator/surveyor (Ian) was on site at start of work and at varying times during fitting. All rubbish cleared away and we are delighted! Dream Doors was established in Hampshire in 1999 and now has more than 50 locally-owned franchised showrooms throughout the country. Ian’s showroom – which has taken just six months to open – is the first to cover the SN postcode area. 46
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
An experienced retailer in his own right before joining Dream Doors, Ian says that, as a franchise, the company offers something other kitchen operators can’t. “I’ve visited plenty of businesses in my time, and this is definitely the most professional and well-run franchise I’ve ever seen,” he says. “It offers the best of both worlds for customers; they’re buying from a national brand that’s won numerous awards and built a fantastic reputation, but they’re also dealing with a local business owner who has their own reputation and livelihood at stake.” Made-to-measure and manufactured in the UK, all Dream Doors kitchen doors and drawers are usually fitted in a single day. It’s a convenient solution that leaves kitchens looking like new, but without the stress and upheaval of a full refurbishment. Most customers also choose new worktops and a sink, and while that might take a little longer, it is still at least half the cost of a comparable new kitchen. Dream Doors also supplies appliances from the best manufacturers and some of the most innovative storage solutions on the market, all making the best use of space in the kitchen. Ian offers a free guarantee on the doors and installation and asks for just a 50 percent deposit, only collecting the balance when customers are completely satisfied. Contact Ian on 01793 213021 or visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk
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Local Pubs
The Goddard Arms CLYFFE PYPARD
by Helen Farley
T
HE GODDARD ARMS IN CLYFFE PYPARD is a public house with a difference and has been described as a ‘secret gem’ by those chancing upon it. Situated just 10 minutes from Royal Wootton Bassett, this traditional, old-fashioned free house pub, with both Public and Lounge Bars, is a place where you can come and talk over a pint, glass of wine or cup of tea and eat home-made cakes, cream teas and hot & cold snacks. The real ales are selected from numerous small breweries so the choice changes every week. But what makes it more unusual is that it houses a family owned aviation collection – currently about 250 exhibits are on show ranging from parts of the old Farnborough Wind Tunnel to a Martin Baker Mk 2 Ejector Seat, photos, prints and paintings, helicopter tail rotors and aircraft parts. The pub is popular with aircraft enthusiasts and also brings back memories for those visitors who were once stationed at RAF Clyffe Pypard, a World War
Two airfield located at the top of the hill (later used as a Transit point for RAF Lyneham and later still the Army). It compliments a wider area so rich in aviation heritage from manufacturers to airfields past and present. The Goddard Arms is a well-known stop for cyclists and walkers out for a day in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside and appears in many walking and hiking guides. Being positioned in such a tranquil landscape there is little to break the quiet which is reflected in our daytime opening hours (see our website at www.goddard-arms.co.uk for opening times).
“. . . it houses a family owned aviation collection – currently about 250 exhibits are on show”
Goddard Arms, Clyffe Pypard, Wiltshire SN4 7PY 01793 731386 www.goddard-arms.co.uk 48
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EARTHMOVING SERVICES www.earthmovingservices.net
• Garden/site shaping, levelling and clearance Micro excavator, • Footings, trenches and ditches excavated minimum access • Sub-bases, soakaways and land drains width required: • Concrete, tarmac, hedge and stump removal 29 inches (730mm) • 0.75-7.5 ton excavators with driver For more information call Steve on
01793 848708 07967 341567
• • • • • • • •
MOBILE VALETING SERVICE
CRB Checked and Licensed Airport Transfers Cruise Terminal Transfers Concerts, Weddings, Parties 8 Seater Vehicle Luggage/Golf Clubs no problem Professional and reliable 24 hours 7 days a week
01793 845289
or email info@immacul8.co.uk or visit www.immacul8.co.uk
Covering all areas of the SN postal code with over 40 years of Wiltshire knowledge!
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For a quote or to book call
• Totally Mobile – on board power and water • Wash & Wax • Mini & Full Valets • Autoglym products used • Gift Vouchers available • 7 days a week • Time & location to suit you
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PRIVATE HIRE SERVICE
ALLIED WESSEX WESTINSURE YOUR LOCAL INSURANCE BROKER
ARE YOU CONFUSED BY YOUR INSURANCE RENEWAL EVERY YEAR? ARE YOU SHOCKED BY THE PRICE OF YOUR INSURANCE?
TELEPHONE: 01793 850441 WEBSITE: www.alliedwessexwestinsure.ltd.uk
109 HIGH STREET, WOOTON BASSETT, SWINDON SN4 7AU Allied Wessex Westinsure is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
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49
d Christmas Presents
Game On by Debbie Singh-Bhatti
I
N the early to mid 1980s, the electronics market was taken by storm when popular Arcade games were taken to the small screen and made available to play at home. Atari launched Space Invaders on its TV games console, and Nintendo created its iconic handheld game Mario Brothers in what we then thought was state of the art technology. Little did we realise what sophisticated play lay ahead as technology developed and the gaming market expanded. Over the years, big names have come and gone as market leaders have fought it out to claim the top spot, so that supremacy in the games console market can now be claimed by just two brands – Sony with its PlayStation and Microsoft with its X-box, with the Nintendo Wii trailing in third place. The keenest users are as passionate about their choice of gaming equipment as fans are about the football team they support. It’s known as Console Wars – the battle to establish gaming supremacy. To the unbiased onlooker, they each have their merits. With the new generation of consoles launched in November 2013, the X-box One sees a shift in direction to an all singing, all dancing media hub, offering the ability to view live TV, watch DVDs and stream videos via the Internet (for a price). As well as the facility for live picture
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
chat similar to Skype, it also boasts built in software (called Kinect) which allows you to issue voice commands, which it obeys. In contrast, Sony has opted to keep it simple with the PlayStation One. First and foremost it is designed to play video games, although it does include free access to the Internet to watch videos, and it also comes with a handheld controller known as the Vita which allows you to continue with play whilst checking out what’s on TV. Fought with equal passion is the battle between console users and computer gamers about which platform offers the best gaming experience. PC enthusiasts claim membership of the PC Master Race, based primarily on their machines’ augmented graphical power brought about by upgrades or additions to the original hardware. Though the wars and battles amongst console users and PC players continue in real life as well as on screen, the question about where it’s all heading remains. Mobile gaming on tablets and phones can be just as immersive and fun – and these units are much more portable. In addition, lowpriced apps are more attractive than expensive games which become obsolete with the launch of each new generation. Yes, the computer gaming market has come a long way since its explosion in the 1980s, and something tells me it has much further still to go!
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The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01249 811068
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51
Christmas Parties at Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel
Christmas Party Nights from £29.95 Our popular party nights contain all the ingredients for a memorable Christmas celebration. Sit down to a delicious three course meal with coffee and mints. Then dance the night away to the sounds of our DJ. Call our sales office for dates available
Santa Sunday Lunches £19.95 per person, £9.95 for children under 12 years. Children under 4 years eat for free. Younger guests will be delighted to hear that a special visitor will be in the hotel during December. Perfect for all the family, a traditional festive carvery in our function room with a visit from Santa, a gift and a disco for the children. For bookings call
01285 864333
www.cotswoldwaterparkhotel.co.uk Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel Lake 6, Spine Road East, South Cerney, Gloucestershire, GL7 5FP 52
The Town Crier Magazine | NOV/DEC 2014
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