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Covering MALMESBURY, ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT and villages

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JANUARY 2017

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A LONDON RIVER CRUISE See page 14

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Happy New Year!

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Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017 1 FOOD l HEALTH & BEAUTY l MOTORING l TheHOME & GARDEN l PETS

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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Visit www.theelephantbathroomcompany.co.uk for more details The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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JANUARY 2017

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Editor’s Letter Happy New Year to you all!

as break, I hope you had an enjoyable Christm this time At h! muc too lge indu and didn’t over our ge chan to ns lutio reso e mak many of us many at look we e issu Year New this In lives, so ge, hyg ns, ways you can keep your resolutio year. yoga and gardening tips for the new birds the et forg ’t Talking of the garden, don watch Bird en Gard Big the in why not take part - see page 24. items of We are always interested in receiving sion in inclu for ers local interest from our read for ng ethi som e writ not the magazine - why 7!

201 the Town Crier in Until next time ...

22

Annie

22

Your Local

TownCr er Magazine

5b Wood Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0BZ Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the February 2017 issue: 6th January 2017

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Editor: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: carlene.sales@towncriermagazine.com Artwork: production@towncriermagazine.com

A LONDON RIVER CRUISE See page 14

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.

Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the The Town Crier Magazine.

For general enquiries please call Annie Harling on 01249 811068 or email: contact@towncriermagazine.com

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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IN THE JANUARY ISSUE 6

Local Focus Local News and Events

18

New Year Special Stretching it Out What is Hygge?

New Year Resolutions Choosing a new Sofa

Trust Your Local Travel Specialists in Malmesbury to find your perfect holiday

24 Gardening

The Big Garden Bird Watch 26 Food

Oven Roasted Cauliflower Cheese

Food Banks - what they need

• Voted ‘The Best Travel Agent’ in 2016 for the South West • 99% of our customers rate our service good or excellent • Full financial protection

28 Puzzle Corner

Crossword & Sudoku 30 A Good Read

The Rosie Project and North Child

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Call in for our latest brochure packed full of inspiring holiday ideas and tips from our well-travelled teams Meg and the team would like to wish all of their customers a Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you in our January Sale Phone lines open until 10pm

01666 824801

1 Market Cross Malmesbury SN16 9AS

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If you would like to advertise in our next edition, you can go to our website: www.towncriermagazine.com and upload and pay for your advert online.

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ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U

Local Focus JANUARY 2017

What’s happening locally • News • Events • Charities • Clubs

Malmesbury League of Friends appoints three New Trustees

Movies@Malmesbury January 2017

Friday 6th January 2pm The Light Between Oceans (12a) 5.30pm Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them (12a) 8pm Nocturnal Animals (15) Monday 9th January 8pm The Light Between Oceans (12a) Wednesday 11th January 7pm “The Tempest” Live from the RSC* Monday 16th January 8pm A Street Cat Named Bob (12a) Monday 23rd January 8pm Arrival (12a) Friday 27th January 2pm A Street Cat Named Bob (12a) 8pm Sully (12a)

The Malmesbury League of Friends (MLOF) has appointed three new trustees, bringing the total to 13.

They are Alex Morgan, Keith Maslin and Wendy Harris.

Alex Morgan is a director of Abbey Communication, a Malmesbury-based business language training centre.

Earlier in her career, Alex worked in human resources and leadership development. She has been a governor of Malmesbury School and has previous experience as a charity trustee.

Keith Maslin runs his own estate agency business in Malmesbury and has lived and worked in the town for nearly 30 years. He is a member of the Malmesbury & St Pauls Without Residents Association, chair of the Malmesbury Bonfire & Fireworks Committee and a former member of Malmesbury Round Table.

Wendy Harris has lived in Malmesbury for over 30 years, and owned the Fromagerie delicatessen (now Capers) for six years. She currently works as a receptionist at a dental practice in the town.

MLOF chairman Robin Clark said: “ We are delighted to welcome these three new trustees, whose varied experience will be invaluable. All three are active in the town.”

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Tickets in advance from Malmesbury Town Hall, on the door or online from www.oxboffice.com. 01666 822143 2pm and 5.30pm £4 & £3 8pm £6 *RSC £10

Ellen Blacker Health and Wellbeing Champion Hello! Just a quick word to remind you all that I am around for general help and support on a wide variety of issues including transport, mobility and safety around the home and reducing the feeling of loneliness. Give me a call on 07557 922020 and leave a message. I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Pinkbox November Competition Winner Sarah Bruton from Melksham

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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What’s On

Diary Dates JANUARY 2017

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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Town Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ Tel: 01666 823748 Email: tic@malmesbury.gov.uk YOGA – NEW CLASSES Starting 23rd November – every Wednesday 6pm – 7.25pm Malmesbury Town Hall Book in advance – Chris Hewett 01453 834304/0781518161 chrishewettyoga@hotmail.com www.shaktichris.com MOVIES@MALMESBURY Tickets available from Malmesbury Tourist Information Centre or www.oxboffice.com Or use this link for more information www. malmesbury.gov.uk/cinema.html The Light Between Oceans (12a) – Friday 6th January 2pm & Monday 9th January 8pm Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them (12a) – Friday 6th January 5.30pm Nocturnal Animals (15) – Friday 6th January 8pm RSC The Tempest – Wednesday 11th January 7pm A Street Cat Named Bob (12a) – Monday 16th January 8pm & Friday 27th January 2pm Arrival (12a) – Monday 23rd January 8pm Sully (12a) – Friday 27th January 8pm MALMESBURY BRIDGE CLUB Evening bridge lessons, on Friday evenings beginning 20 January 2017 Come and learn the basics in comfortable surroundings at Athelstan House, Malmesbury No prior knowledge needed.

Please register your interest by emailing your details to jimedwards2011@hotmail.co.uk 8

or phone Jim on 01666 502914.

The course will run for 21 weeks followed by 6 weeks of assisted play. Each session will cost £6 and there will be a one- off cost of £20 for the English Bridge Union course book. Places will be limited to 12 people LAMBING TIME AT ROVES FARM 7 to 24 January 2017 Sevenhampton, Swindon, SN6 7QG The Poll Dorset flock at Roves Farm are due to have over 100 lambs this January. It's a wonderful time of year to come along, get up close and meet the new born lambs! For more information visit: www.rovesfarm.co.uk PERU TREK Thursday 26th January from 6.30pm The Forever Friends Appeal are looking for adventurers to join their Peru Trek (departing on 10th November 2017) to take on the original Inca Trail challenge which will lead you along gushing rivers, amongst ancient tunnels and ruins, through lush cloudforest and sub-tropical jungle and across high mountain passes to the picture-perfect Sun Gate, where the ancient city of Machu Picchu awaits. You can choose to trek for the RUH Cancer Care Campaign (raising vital funds for a new Cancer Centre at the Hospital), or any ward or department that’s close to your heart. Want to know more?

There will be a Peru Information Evening at the RUH on Thursday 26th January from 6.30pm, which includes a talk and Q&A session with the trek leader. To find out more or to book your place, please visit www.foreverfriendsappeal. co.uk or contact Laura on laurapearce1@nhs.net / 01225 821535. The final deadline to book a place on the trek is 3rd April 2017.

WOOTTON BASSETT LIGHT OPERATIC SOCIETY LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 27-29 January 2017 The Memorial Hall, Royal Wootton Bassett For tickets contact 07770 632887 www.wblos.org.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

FEBRUARY 2017

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JAZZ AT MALMESBURY ABBEY Sat 4th February, 7:30pm, Malmesbury Abbey Craig Milverton and the Milverton Legacy Band will bring warmth to winter gloom with an eclectic mix of Classic Standards, Bluesy Ballads and Jazz Funk grooves. See page 12 for more details.

THE GINGERBREAD RACE AT ROVES FARM 11 - 19 February 2017 Sevenhampton, Swindon, SN6 7QG Bringing the classic story to life with a twist. For more information visit: www.rovesfarm.co.uk DEVIZES FESTIVAL OF WINTER ALES 2017 Friday 24th & Saturday 25th February 2017 Corn Exchange, Devizes, This delicious celebration of bespoke, warming winter ales and ciders is a fundraising event for DOCA to help meet costs of DOCA's free annual programme of outstanding outdoor arts events and activities. Our artistic programme is free to enjoy but costs thousands of pounds to produce. Please support us and come and enjoy this unique Winter Ale Festival which features live music and Street Festival style entertainment! For the latest information on tickets visit: www.docadevizes.org.uk/events/ festival-of-winter-ales SWINDON WINTER IMAGE BONSAI SHOW February 26th 2017 Grange Leisure Centre, Grange Drive, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon SN3 4JY 1030am – 4pm Entry - £5.00 This show attracts visitors and exhibitors from all over the UK as well as a few from Europe. Some of the ‘Gold’ medal trees from the Chelsea Flower show display will be exhibited as well as 11 other clubs and Societies. A large number of traders selling everything needed for this hobby. For information www.swindon-bonsai.co.uk Chairman - Paul on 07982 401103

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www.thameswoodvets.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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What’s On

Swindon Winter Image Bonsai Show February 26th 2017 This show attracts visitors and exhibitors from all over the UK as well as a few from Europe. Some of the ‘Gold’ medal trees from the Chelsea Flower show display will be exhibited as well as 11 other clubs and Societies. A large number of traders selling everything needed for this hobby.

Grange Leisure Centre, Grange Drive Stratton St Margaret, Swindon SN3 4JY 1030am – 4pm Entry - £5.00 For information www.swindon-bonsai.co.uk Chairman - Paul on 07982 401103

Peru Trek Is visiting the Seven Wonders of the World on your bucket list? Now’s your chance to tick off mystical Machu Picchu AND make a real difference to patients at the Royal United Hospital when they need it most!

The Forever Friends Appeal are looking for adventurers to join their Peru Trek (departing on 10th November 2017) to take on the most iconic and breath-taking trek in the world…only the original Inca Trail challenge will lead you along gushing rivers, amongst ancient tunnels and ruins, through lush cloud-forest and sub-tropical jungle and across high mountain passes to the pictureperfect Sun Gate, and the ancient city of Machu Picchu.

You can choose to trek for the RUH Cancer Care Campaign (raising vital funds for a new Cancer Centre at the Hospital), or any ward or department that’s close to your heart. There will be a Peru Information Evening at the RUH on Thursday 26th January from 6.30pm, which includes a talk and Q&A session with the trek leader. To find out more or to book your place, please visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk or contact Laura on laurapearce1@nhs.net / 01225 821535. The final deadline to book a place on the trek is 3rd April 2017.

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Residents of Hill House say that it is their ...

‘Home from Home’ Hill House is a Country House set in open countryside once owned by the Chamberlain family.

We offer nursing, residential, respite, day care and end of life care. Please give us a call if you would like more information on our lovely Home.

‘Person centred care sees residents as equal partners in planning, developing and assessing care to make sure it is the most appropriate for their needs. It involves putting residents and their families at the heart of all decisions.’ Norma & Chad Doveton (Owners of Hill House) The recently opened new wing has large living and dining areas overlooking the Dauntsey Vale.

There are many new features including community coffee hub, bar, hairdressing salon, nail bar, ensuite shower in each room, large assisted bathrooms, WiFi throughout. The gardens are a magnificent feature of Hill House where you can enjoy peace and

tranquillity sat on the terraces. We have introduced a new person centred software system to ensure a high standard of record keeping and enabling staff to spend more time with residents.

care home

We continue to drive our Homes forward to achieve ever higher standards. We recognise training our staff is the key to providing the best care possible. Training also helps staff to achieve their personal goals, career development and to be happy and fulfilled in their work. We are looking for highly motivated caring individuals to work in our new Home and have several vacancies including Registered Nurses and Care Assistants. If you would like to be part of our team please email Donna at: hillhousemanager@gmail.com

Hill House Care Home, Little Somerford, Nr Malmesbury SN15 5BH Tel: 01666 822363 email: hillhousemanager@gmail.com • www.countrycarehomes.co.uk

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Experience • Knowledge • Competitive Pricing • Outstanding Customer Service The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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What’s On

JAZZ AT MALMESBURY ABBEY

Craig Milverton and the Milverton Legacy Band Sat 4th February, 7:30pm, Malmesbury Abbey

Thanks a million!

W

ILTSHIRE Air Ambulance’s Lottery and Superdraw have achieved a major milestone – by generating £1 million in income. In addition, the number of people playing the charity’s award-winning lotteries - just over 35,500 - is an all-time high. As well as raising money to keep the charity’s helicopter flying and saving lives, members who play the Superdraw can win up to £25,000.

One of the latest winners of the Superdraw, Sharon Pottinger-Jones, of Highworth, near Swindon, scooped £22,439, less than 4 months after she joined.

She has made a donation from her winnings to Wiltshire Air Ambulance (WAA). Mrs Pottinger-Jones said: “Wiltshire Air Ambulance is such a good cause.

It serves the county and one day anyone of us might need it. I couldn’t believe I had won the Superdraw prize, I would encourage people to take part.”

The charity won the Lottery Operator of the Year at The Lotteries Council Awards 2016. Rebecca de la Bedoyere, Senior Fundraising Manager at WAA, said: “We’d like to thank Sharon for making a donation from her Superdraw winnings to Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Our lotteries are our biggest, single source of income and it’s incredible to think that, simply by signing up and paying from £1 a week, our lottery members are raising enough to cover almost a third of our running costs. Wiltshire is a big county with a small population, so to have reached a combined membership of over 35,000 across the Lottery and Superdraw is a fantastic achievement.

We’d like to say a huge thank you to all our lottery members and also to the lottery canvassers who work hard to spread the word about our lotteries.

We’d love even more people to sign up, as it really gives us a secure, reliable income that enables us to keep flying and saving lives – and of course everyone who joins is in with a chance of winning!”

Each chance in WAA’s regular lottery costs £1 a week and it has a top prize of £1,000 a week. Each chance in the Superdraw costs an additional £1 a week.

Players of WAA’s lotteries must be 16 years of age or over. For more information about the lotteries go to www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk 12

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Craig Milverton and the Milverton Legacy Band will bring warmth to winter gloom with an eclectic mix of Classic Standards, Bluesy Ballads and Jazz Funk grooves.

Craig Milverton is one of Britain's finest Jazz Pianists. His talent was recognised in 2010 when he won Best Jazz Pianist in the British Jazz Awards and confirmed by the 10 awards he has received alongside Digby Fairweather and his Half Dozen in the Best Small Group category.

His many projects have included: Trichotism alongside the Brilliant Award Winning Guitarist Nigel Price- based loosely on the Oscar Peterson drumless trios; his Tribute To Oscar Peterson show featuring the superb Canadian guitarist Dominic Ashworth, gifted young bassist Sandy Suchodolski and the great swinging drummer Nick Millward; The Clarinet Maestros featuring 2 of the worlds top players, American Ken Peplowski and Julian Stringle.

His trio has often been used to back a host of top names at clubs and festivals across the Uk and Europe such as Stacey Kent, Jacqui Dankworth and Scott Hamilton.

Craig works regularly with Digby Fairweather and his Half Dozen. He was accompanist to George Melly with whom he recorded 3 CDs, one of which featured Van Morrison.

He plays regularly at Ronnie Scott's, and has toured and performed at top venues and festivals across the World.

The Band . . .

Craig's daughter Eleisha May at only 18, has already performed at many jazz venues and festivals. Blessed with a smokey jazz voice she's received much praise from Tina May, Digby Fairweather and Maggie Reeday.

Craig's son Ben, 21 is already an experienced gigging musician and has appeared many times with his Dad's groups. His astonishing technique and ability has been praised by such great guitarists as Nigel Price and Dominic Ashworth. Along with Sandy and Nick they are collectively called The Milverton Legacy Band.

“Britain’s nearest to Oscar Peterson”

Digby Fairweather

“A master of whatever he chooses to perform, a truly great British Trio” Humphrey Lyttleton

Glastonbury Founder Michael Eavis CBE to open local marathon walk

T

HE Forever Friends Appeal are excited to announce that legendary Glastonbury festival founder Michael Eavis CBE has become an Ambassador for their popular annual fundraising event, the “Walk of Life”.

The Forever Friends Appeal are the primary charity for Bath’s Royal United Hospital who raise vital funds for all wards and departments at the hospital, including their major RUH Cancer Care Campaign, raising a minimum of £8.5 million towards an exceptional new Cancer Centre at the RUH. In 2016 the Walk of Life celebrated its 10th birthday and saw over 350 walkers take part to celebrate the lives and memories of their loved ones. In past years the walk has always offered walkers the choice between a full 21 mile route, or shorter 12 and 9 mile distances. The Appeal are now extremely excited to announce that new for 2017, the event’s full route will be extended from 21 miles to a full 26.2 miles – a marathon walking event!

Nic says, “The Walk of Life has grown from strength to strength over the past 11 years and it’s been very exciting (and emotional!) to watch it grow in numbers. Together with the Appeal’s Events Team, we now want to offer people the option to challenge themselves to achieve something truly inspirational – a marathon 26.2 mile route! We immediately contacted Michael Eavis to ask whether he would consider becoming an Ambassador for the event; a well-respected local man who himself has achieved inspirational success with Glastonbury Festival over the years!”

Michael says, “The Royal United Hospital in Bath has always been close to my heart, having myself received excellent treatment there in past years. When Nic approached me with her story and asked if I would consider becoming an Ambassador for the Walk Of Life I didn’t hesitate to say yes. Since 2005 the festival has supported the Appeal with various fundraising activities, including our preGlastonbury staff annual skittles match. I am now looking forward to meeting walkers in May at the start of the 2017 Walk of Life and hope that this coming year will be the best year yet!”

The 2017 Walk of Life will take place on Saturday 13th May 2017. As Ambassador for the event, Michael will be attending the start of the event’s new route in Bishops Cannings to meet and greet walkers, before joining them as they begin their walk along the Kennet and Avon canal. The event’s new 26.2 mile route will this year start at The Crown Inn Pub, situated within the picturesque village of Bishops Cannings, just outside of Devizes.

Walkers will start from The Crown Inn at 8am to travel along the canal, via Bradford on Avon to end at the iconic Holburne Museum in Bath.

For those who don’t fancy a full marathon, walkers can also opt to walk a shorter 10 mile route in the afternoon – from Bradford on Avon to Bath.

Michael Eavis launches the 2017 Walk of Life with Appeal Staff at Glastonbury Festival HQ (Worthy Farm) From left to right: Laura Pearce (Events Fundraiser), Michael Eavis, Nicola Noble (Vice President and Co-Founder of the Walk of Life), Lydia McGivern (Community Fundraiser) and Emily Lynch (Events Officer) Together with their Ambassador Michael Eavis, the Appeal are now encouraging people sign up to take part in the 2017 Walk of Life.

Earlybird online entries to the event are now open, at a discounted price of £15 per person. General entry places will be £20 per person thereafter. All entries included a free t-shirt, medal and goody bag.

Local businesses are also being encouraged to sign up teams in the Walk of Life Corporate Challenge.

Completing the Corporate Challenge as a team gives people an opportunity to enjoy a fun day out of the office, have time for team bonding, experience an environment where companies can compete against each other in a positive and friendly way and be involved with supporting a cause that is close to so many people.

To find out more, please visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk or call the events team on 01225 821535.

Walkers can choose to dedicate their fundraising to the RUH Cancer Care Campaign, or an RUH ward or department of their choice.

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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CO C M OV PE E TI R TI ON

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Planning a holiday?

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Marc specialises in weddings abroad, honeymoons, long-haul travel, cruise and group travel. He has travelled to over 30 countries and loves passing on the experiences to his clients. ”I’m very competitive on price and always add great value by getting hotel upgrades, adding advance passenger information, dealing with visa queries and making sure you have a memorable holiday. Many of my clients come from personal recommendations and referrals because of my high level of personal service.”

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

WIN

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There is one prize to be won by one lucky reader.

To be in with a chance of winning please email your name and a contact number to production@ towncriermagazine.com by 31st January 2017.

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www.brinkworthearldanbys.wilts.sch.uk The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Pear Tree at Purton Happy New Year from the staff of The Pear Tree at Purton! We wish you all a successful, healthy and peaceful 2017.

The oldest part of the building is the fireplace in the library which has been dated to 1430 when King Henry VI was the monarch around the time of Joan of Arc. Although the building was originally the vicarage for the village of Purton, it wasn’t on its present site until 1912. It was moved, or so local folklore says, as the nearby church had run out of space for graves until they were right around the vicarage.

I

S this going to be a very special year for you? Are you getting married or are you helping a loved one find the perfect venue?

In line with our annual wedding tradition, during 2017, we are offering a wedding package for up to 25 people for just £2,017.

This includes an event for 25 guests including the couple, room hire for the ceremony, a drinks reception, three course meal and coffee as well as a glass of Prosecco for the toasts and an overnight stay for the newly-weds.

Also provided are: a red carpet, cake stand, place cards and menu and a dedicated wedding planner.

Any additional guest can be added at £50 a head.

As you’ve probably guessed we cater for smaller weddings, with a maximum of 50 people and we are also experts in short notice weddings. Our wedding planner Alix Young can guide you through the process from start to finish, very quickly if necessary.

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We can also offer a lovely outside ceremony in fine weather in our Harper Summer House named after regular guests John and Johnnie Harper who began visiting the hotel’s restaurant shortly after it opened in 1987.

After Mrs Harper passed away a few years ago Mr Harper continues to visit the restaurant for lunch, making it his mission to introduce more and more guests to the venue each year. We’re proud of our relationship with the Harpers and wanted to show him how much we value his, and his wife’s, support and custom.

It has extensive grounds and borders Purton Cricket Club – home to Wiltshire’s oldest cricket club which is 200 years old in 2020. The hotel has amazing and extensive gardens lovingly tended by managing director Anne Young.

She’s redesigned the gardens turning them from a small herbaceous border and some overgrown fields to a wetland, wild flower meadow and a 600-vine vineyard as well as three beehives.

Visitors can enjoy the wild flower meadow, buddleia walk and the copse of native oaks as well as the magnificent garden surrounding the hotel.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our food and our chefs continue to excel by winning another AA two rosette award in 2016 for their fantastic food and the creative menus they produce week on week.

If you’ve not been to the hotel before, it may interest you to know that in a former life it was the vicarage for the village of Purton and is run by the Young family offering 17 bedrooms as well as fine dining.

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

For more details visit www.peartreepurton.co.uk or call us on 01793 772100.

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17

New Year, New You

Stretch it out S

TIFFNESS, inflexibility, aches and pains …

They may seem like an inevitable part of aging, particularly if you have a desk job. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Exercises such as pilates and yoga can really help to increase strength and flexibility.

Physiotherapist and pilates instructor Sue Holmes explains, “Pilates and yoga are both fabulous exercise regimes to help increase the flexibility of your muscles.

Both disciplines benefit you by actively working the muscles into an end range stretch, but yoga tends to encourage you to hold the positions for longer than pilates would. A weekly workout is a great way to enhance your joint and muscle range of movement, which would not be gained by usual day-to-day activity alone.”

Key benefits of pilates and yoga include: • Improving and maintaining flexibility • Promoting better posture • Easing lower-back pain • Increasing the strength of core muscles • Improving balance and co-ordination • Reducing stress • Pilates and yoga can also help to realign any imbalances. We often favour one side of our body and over time this can limit our range of movement.

For example, if you injure your leg, you may adjust your walk so that you’re favouring your good leg.

Before long, this can become habit and lead to one side becoming weaker than the other. Pilates and yoga can alert you to these types of imbalances, and help you to correct them.

18

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Pilates and yoga are suitable for most people, whatever their age or level of fitness. The focus is on low-impact, slow movements. You’ll need comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily, and an exercise mat.

Other equipment, such as a pilates ball, will usually be provided by the instructor, although you may want to invest in one to practice on at home.

You should be able to find a class that specifically caters for beginners, and there are also several types of yoga classes available to choose from, including ashtanga, hatha and power yoga.

Do choose your instructor wisely. It can be quite easy to hurt your back when exercising, if your instructor doesn’t guide you correctly. Make sure your instructor is fully qualified and, if possible, ask current students for their opinions of the class, before you start.

Don’t be put off by the images of size 10 twentysomethings pulling impossible looking moves. You’ll find all ages, shapes and abilities in a class, and you won’t be expected to tie yourself in knots or push yourself past the point you’re comfortable with. Most people are far too busy trying to figure their own stretches out – they’re not interested in whether you have perfected your downward dog or not.

by Kate Duggan

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If you are VAT registered, you must also charge VAT to your clients which can be problematic. E.G. A builder replaces a roof on a privately owned house.

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www.ask-ams.co.uk @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

19

New Year, New You

New Year’s Resolutions

A

LL too often New Year’s resolutions seem to focus on doing more of what we don’t enjoy, and less of what we do enjoy. So this issue, we thought we’d give you our suggestions for resolutions you’ll actually want to keep.

What is Hygge?

You’d have had to be pretty well snuggled under a mountain of blankets not to have heard about hygge this winter. Pronounced ‘hue-gah’, it’s all about creating a sense of cosiness, of coming together with friends and family, of revelling in simple pleasures.

Think warm, fluffy towels, roaring fires and flickering candles. Think good, honest, home-cooked food, shared with friends.

• Hygge isn’t about buying ‘stuff ’, whatever the retailers want us to think. You don’t need to spend money to create a sense of hygge.

• Wrapping up in a snuggly jumper and going for a walk can be hygge, as can catching up with a friend over coffee. It’s about a feeling, not possessions. It’s about being kind to yourself, and to others. You could…

• Curl up in PJs and a snuggly blanket, drink hot chocolate and read a book.

• Light that scented candle you’ve been saving.

• Stop trying to multi-task; turn off your phone and focus on the moment.

• Bake some gooey chocolate chip cookies.

• Invite a neighbour over for a cuppa.

• Send a loved one a letter.

• Soak in a bath with a few drops of aromatherapy oils.

• Explore the great outdoors with your family.

• Turn off your phone.

While fashions come and go, hygge is one trend that’s very much worth indulging in. Enjoy.

by Kate Duggan 20

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Learn something new Whether you want to get a qualification so you can get a better job, or you just fancy trying a new hobby, make 2017 the year you try something new. www.futurelearn. com is a good place to start. It offers hundreds of free, short online courses. Many are delivered by leading UK universities. You could try writing fiction, exploring digital technologies, or learning about forensic science. If you prefer face-to-face tuition, check out the courses offered by your local college. You could improve your computer skills, take up a new craft, or find out how to delve into your family history.

Enjoy time outdoors Nature is good for you. It’s been proven to help with depression, anxiety, stress and a whole lot of other issues.

It may even help you to live longer. We know the great British weather doesn’t always make it the most tempting prospect. But if the sun breaks through the clouds, wrap up warm, pull your wellies on and head for your nearest green space. You’ll likely find you feel calmer and happier as a result.

Take time to cook Home cooked meals are usually much better for you than ready meals. They’re higher in vitamins and minerals, and lower in salt and sugar. So, try resolving to cook for yourself a few days a week. If you struggle to find the time, you could try a box scheme. Simply Cook, for example, post you the herbs, seasonings and recipes to make simple (but delicious) meals in around 20 minutes. You just add four to six items of fresh food and follow the instructions. Hello Fresh go even further. They send you everything you need to make a meal, including simple-to-follow recipes.

Appreciate the little things We’re often so busy; we don’t get time to really appreciate the little things in life. A soak in the bath, your favourite radio programme, a chat with an old friend… Taking a moment to be thankful can make us happier and calmer, and improve our relationships. You could try listing three things that you’re grateful for before you go to sleep each night, or keeping a daily gratitude journal. Or just try to give thanks to the people you love a bit more often.

by Kate Duggan

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

21

New Year, New You

Choosing a new

B

Sofa

UYING a new sofa is a significant financial purchase. Here are a few pointers to help with your decision: Think about what size is most suitable. Proportions are important. For example if you have high ceilings a high backed sofa may look better than a low backed style. A huge sofa in a small room can be overbearing and leave little room for other furniture. In some spaces two smaller sofas or a sofa and arm chair combination will be more aesthetically pleasing than one large one.

Consider your comfort when deciding on the overall size too.

The height and depth of the seat can make a vast difference. I am relatively short and often find I have to perch near the edge of the seat on some designs in order for my feet to touch the ground. So do try them out.

When considering shape and style you need to decide whether you

22

want to create a relaxed style or a more formal look. Solid backs and styles such as Chesterfields’ are neater and more traditional, whereas loose-backed and corner sofa arrangements are more contemporary. Corner sofas are also ideal for creating a relaxation space within a large open-plan living space and can save space in smaller rooms.

Other differences that can help you decide which style you prefer are arm shape: square, rolled, wide or narrow; the overall line of the sofa, straight or curved; and the design of the legs.

There are many options in terms of upholstery: fabric or leather, plain or patterned. Think about durability in terms of the fabric and the look you are trying to create.

Even if you decide on leather you will probably still have a choice between natural look, a smoother more even finish, or faux leather instead.

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Fabrics may be cotton-based, velvet and chenille types or microfibre.

Most designers recommend a plain colour for the main sofa and the use of scatter cushions to add a splash of another colour or patterns. Cushions can be changed more easily if you decide the look needs updating in the future.

To aid longevity, choose a sturdy frame with good joinery and springs. You can often get a protective coating applied to your new sofa to help protect against spills too.

Finally many new sofas have extra features such as recliner options or built in audio. Or you may want a sofa bed. There’s a lot to consider, so don’t make a hasty decision as most of us keep our sofas for many years.

by Susan Brookes-Morris

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Ethylene Glycol poisoning Dr Alice Manley BVM BVS MRCVS

www.georgevetgroup.co.uk The George Veterinary Hospital, Malmesbury 01666 823165 The George Veterinary Group, Royal Wootton Bassett 01793 852458

A

S we are now firmly in the depths of winter with cold, frosty mornings and iced-up cars, we thought it would be a good time to discuss the dangers of ethylene glycol. This chemical is widely used in many of the products we purchase in order to de-ice our vehicles. It’s not just used as antifreeze in car screen washes but can also be found in hydraulic brake fluid and radiator coolant. Many of you will know that, if ingested, ethylene glycol (also known as ethanediol) is extremely toxic to dogs, cats and humans, even in very small amounts. Unfortunately, the chemical has a sweet taste and so animals will drink it willingly from puddles, or lick it off their feet after walking under a leaking car.

Most poisonings occur in the winter when antifreeze is widely used or in the spring when radiators are drained. However, antifreeze containing ethylene glycol may be lying around in sheds and garages throughout the year. It’s important that you ensure containers are placed out of reach with the screw top tightened, and remember to check for any spillages under the vehicle when topping up the windscreen wash.

How will you know if your pet has been poisoned?

Stage 1: Initial signs occur between 30 minutes – 12 hours after ingestion of the poison. Signs can be subtle, and may include neurological signs such as lack of coordination of movement, salivation, weakness, convulsions and vomiting. These signals may be appear to improve but you may also notice your pet is unwilling to eat by the next day.

Stages 2 and 3: These signs often present anywhere between 12-24 hours after ingestion and include more obvious indicators such as breathing difficulties and convulsions. Your pet may be very lethargic, depressed and may slip into a coma.

What should you do if you think your pet may have been poisoned?

Antifreeze has extremely toxic effects, mainly on the kidneys. It is therefore vital that your pet is brought to your vet as soon as possible so that the antidote and supportive therapy can be given. The sooner the signs are noticed, and acted upon, the better. If you see your pet drinking antifreeze (more likely in dogs than in cats), then take them to your vet straight away.

The sooner we see them the better the prognosis; although sadly, the prognosis is still guarded.

Please get in touch with us should you have any questions. We are here for your pets throughout the winter and always ready to see you and your pets 24 hours a day for any concerns or emergencies. Happy New Year to you all and we hope you enjoy the beauty of winter.

In our next article we’ll be able to show you the exciting developments at the Veterinary Hospital which have provided an improved layout and more space for us to offer the very best service for your pets.

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

23

Gardening

I

The Big Garden Bird Watch

N the depth of winter garden birds bring us so much pleasure. Squabbling on feeders, their colours and songs brighten gloomy days.

Birds play a vital role in our gardens’ ecosystems.

They are feathered pest controllers, eating everything from snails to aphids to wind-fall fruits.

If you’d like to attract more birds to your garden there are several things to consider. Lots of people hang up a bag of peanuts when the weather turns grim then become disheartened as it hangs there unused. So here are my handy tips.

Food - When I was a child my dad told me to only feed birds in the winter, but now the experts advise putting out food all year round.

There is a dizzying array of bird food available but a good starter mix includes sunflower seeds, canary seed, hemp and husk-free oats. Use a good tube-style feeder and clean it regularly as a build up of bacteria and old food can kill birds.

If squirrels are a problem you can by rodent-proof feeders. I also have one tubefeeder which is set within a sort of cage which keeps larger birds out, letting the smaller ones access 24

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

the food unimpeded. Protect birds from prowling cats by planting something prickly and ground-hugging around the bird table or feeder – Berberis darwinii is a good one, but you can also confound cats with a collar, which fits around the bird table stand and prevents them from jumping up.

Water - A supply of clean water is very important for drinking and bathing. A sloping bath is best to accommodate different bird species, and add a flat stone or two to aid with getting in and out! Keep it topped up and check daily to see that it hasn’t frozen. If it has, melt the ice with warm water. Your feathered friends will thank you.

Plants - Birds like cover so plant shrubs, trees and climbers. If you can manage it a mixed hedge of hawthorn, holly, dog rose, and rowan offers cover and food, and is also very pretty.

Train honeysuckle and ivy over arches and pergolas.

Pyracantha ‘Soleil d’Or’, Cotoneaster frigidus ‘Cornubia’ and rambling roses that will produce lots of rosehips are great for house walls and fences. If you have room for a tree try the bird cherry (Prunus padus) or a crab apple such as Malus ‘John Downie’.

Nesting - Dozens of bird species make use of nest boxes. Put up new boxes now because birds use the winter to scope out good breeding spots. If you already have boxes, take them down, remove any old nests and rinse the boxes with boiling water to sterilise them.

Come the spring put out some extra nesting material for them to grab: sheep wool, pet hair, wool scraps can all be pushed inside a wire cage or a terracotta pot Hopefully this has given you some ideas. And don’t forget to take part in The Big Garden Bird Watch on January 28th-30th. Details at www.rspb.org.uk

by Rachel Leverton

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25

27/04/2012 19:57

Food & Drink

Oven-Roasted Cauliflower Cheese

Roasting the cauliflower imparts a lovely sweetness to the dish and the mustard means you need less cheese so it’s better for that post-Christmas waistline!

METHOD

INGREDIENTS 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 200C / Gas 6. Pla ce the cauliflowe florets into an ov r enproof dish and season with a pinc of salt and pepper. h Roast for 20 minut es, or until tender and starting to br own.

Meanwhile, mak e the sauce by m elting the butter a saucepan, then in adding the flour and cooking for minutes, or until 1-2 a light golden co lour. Gradually ad the milk until sm d ooth, and then co ok over a gentle for 3-4 minutes sti heat rring constantly until thickened.

Add the grated nu tmeg. Reduce th e heat then add the mustard and cheddar cheese.

Put the roasted cauliflower into th e sauce and mix so that all the flo are coated. Pour rets the cheese and ca uliflower mixture back into the roas ting dish, sprinkle over the parmes and return to the an oven for 10-15 m inutes, or until th cheese is golden e -brown and the sa uce is bubbling.

Serve as a supper dish with a green salad.

FOR THE SAUCE 20g/¾oz unsalted butter 20g/¾oz plain flour Grated nutmeg to taste 250ml/9fl oz skimmed milk 40g/1½oz mature cheddar, finely grated 2 tsp Dijon or wholegrain mustard 15g/½oz parmesan, or similar hard cheese, finely grated 26

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

Experts in all building works, renovations, conversions, decorating, kitchens and bathrooms for your home or business

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What they need

Donating to food banks is a worthwhile thing to do. The Trussell Trust say that a simple box of food can make a big difference as foodbanks help prevent crime, housing loss, family breakdown and mental health problems.

December is generally the busiest month of the year for foodbanks.

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If you are organising a local collection, it’s best to get in touch with your local foodbank and ask then what they need most. All donated goods must be in date.

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A typical food parcel provides at least three days nutritionally balanced food. It consists of non perishable tinned and dried items. Usually included are: • • • • • •

Cereal Soup Pasta Rice Pasta sauce Beans

• Tinned meat • Tinned vegetables • Tea/coffee • Sugar • Biscuits

Some foodbanks provide pet food too and for families there may be some sweets or chocolate for the children. None food items such as toiletries, nappies, toilet roll and sanitary products are also often welcomed and some will try to give gifts at Christmas too.

There are collection points at many supermarkets. If it’s easier you can arrange to make a one off financial donation or a give a regular amount instead.

Find out more at: www.trusselltrust.org

by Susan Brookes-Morris

26/01/2015 14:03

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01793 848708 07967 341567 The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

27

Puzzles

PUZZLE CORNER

Which specs will suit me?

O

by Debbie Singh-Bhatti

UR faces, like our bodies, come in all shapes and sizes, so if you wear glasses it’s important to choose a pair that will establish a balanced look. The four most common face shapes are oval, round, square and oblong.

If you have an oval shaped face with a rounded chin and forehead, consider yourself lucky! You’ll look good in almost anything, but make sure you select a frame that is wide enough to maintain balance.

A round face needs to look narrower and longer, which can be achieved with soft but angular frames that are not too deep. Geometric shapes and ones with embellished arms also give the face more definition.

If your face is square with a broad forehead, wide jaw and square chin, soften the angles by wearing oval or round frames that are not too wide. These will soften the jaw and help emphasise the eyes.

A rectangular face is longer with a square chin, deep forehead, high cheekbones and long nose. Large, wide, square frames with a strong top line help shorten the face, and a low bridge will shorten the nose.

In addition, ensure that the top edge of the frame is no higher than the eyebrows and that the lower edge does not sit on the cheekbones.

28

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

ACROSS 7 Type of poison (7) 9 Mushrooms and toadstools (5) 10 Female deer (3) 11 Scene, vista (9) 12 African river (5) 14 Dumbfound, flabbergast (7) 16 Art of paper-folding (7) 18 Young armed services trainee (5) 19 Eclair or Choux bun (9) 20 Express an opinion publicly (3) 21 Grieve (5) 22 Incurred cost (7)

DOWN 1 Lively Spanish dance (8) 2 Small island (4) 3 Fisherman (6) 4 Place out of line (6) 5 Not considered important (8) 6 Unpleasant, odious (4) 8 Infect, pollute (11) 13 Cunning, deceitful (8) 15 Discouraged (8) 17 Type of nut (6) 18 Scary, macabre (6) 19 Temporary outdoor shelter (4) 20 Skin condition which causes spots (4)

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29

Books

A Good Read The Rosie Project

North Child

..........................................................................................

......................................

by Graeme Simsion

There have been several novels published in recent years which feature an autistic character; The Rosie Project is one of them.

Don is a scientist working at a university in Australia. In his late 30s he is single and largely contented. His day is meticulously mapped out, and routine is a part of everything he does. He is never early (a waste of precious time) or late (rude and puts everything out of time), and can’t abide small talk. He also has lobster every Tuesday.

As the novel opens he is lecturing on Aspergers at a conference but it is not a lecture from a personal perspective.

Don is undiagnosed yet many friends and parents of those on the spectrum will identify his traits. A chance conversation with the conference organiser leads him to consider if he can apply scientific methodology to the search for a suitable partner, and The Wife Project is born.

Readers will warm to Don, and his naïve approach to relationships and life in general, and anyone who is currently negotiating the dating minefield might wonder if it would all be easier with the aid of his questionnaire?

Crossword & Sudoku solution page 28

30

The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017

by Edith Pattou

This Young Adult novel is published by Usborne Books. Based on the Norwegian fairy tale ‘East of the Sun and West of the Moon’ this sweeping fantasy story is set in the snow-covered lands of Scandinavia.

Legend has it that children born facing north are destined to travel far from home and die, crushed under ice and snow.

When Eugenia’s eighth and youngest child is born her belief in superstition leads her to fear for her daughter’s future. She lies about the circumstances of Rose’s birth but it would seem that fate cannot be deceived by a lie. As Rose grows up she feels out of place in the family and longs to travel, with a desire for adventure. Her unease, combined with a wanderlust means that when a white bear appears and offers her family a way out of poverty and ill-health if she will come away with him to a land far away in the north, she readily accepts.

Here she meets a mysterious stranger in a castle hidden in a mountain. Who is he and why does he only appear at night? Faced with challenges she discovers her purpose in life in a tale of love, betrayal, and adventure.

This rich story will appeal to readers from the age of 10 upwards and is a great introduction to epic fantasy.

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31

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The Town Crier Magazine | JANUARY 2017