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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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MAY 2016
IN THE MAY ISSUE
Editor’s Letter Welcome to May!
forward Many of us will be very much looking just mer sum and – to two Bank Holidays around the corner! in May – There are loads of events coming up ideas for on secti On t’s Wha our at take a look for days out or half term. in A big thank you to everyone who sent Air contributions to this issue, Wiltshire ey Tea Ambulance, Boondocks Festival, Oaks more. Rooms, Dauntsey Music and many an Please get in touch with us if you have message event in June or July - or send us a on our website. Until next time ...
Annie
Your Local
TownCr er Magazine
5b Wood Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0BZ Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the June 2016 issue: 9th May 2016 Editor: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: carlene.sales@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. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the The Town Crier Magazine.
For general enquiries please call Jake Fortune on 07725 191206 or email: jake.sales@towncriermagazine.com 4
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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Local Focus Local News and Events
22 Puzzle Corner Crossword & Sudoku 24 Books Sharing Stories Emma Jayne Taylor 28 Gardening Biological methods 30 Sunglasses
28 www.dreamscapeÂelectrical.co.uk
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ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U
Local Focus MAY 2016
What’s happening locally • News • Events • Charities • Clubs
St Aldhelm’s Fair 2016. It will take place on Monday 30th May 10.30am – 3pm. There will be various stalls and activities in the market Cross and the Companions of the Long Bow will be demonstrating once again in the Cloister Gardens.
Kington Langley Scarecrow Festival Weekend
Sat 18 - Sun 19 June
Scarecrow Trail - £100 prize
~ Princesses : Kids’ rides : Live Music ~ ~ Donkeys : Craft Fair & Stalls ~ ~ “Crow Bar” : BBQ : Tea Tent : Cream Teas ~ ~ Scrapheap Challenge ~ www.scarecrows.biz
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
BoA Promotions presents:
The Harmonettes in ‘Dorothy’s War’ Sunday 8th May, 7.30pm Malmesbury Town Hall SN16 9BZ Dorothy’s War is an exciting new musical play, packed full of songs from the First World War, all sung live by The Harmonettes - three singers with outstanding voices and a fine sense of harmony. They have given many captivating performances in Wiltshire over the past few years, including The Wiltshire Music Centre, Corsham Town Hall, Great Somerford School and Hullavington Village Hall. The play is based on one woman’s extraordinary life during the First World War. It celebrates the true story of Dorothy Lawrence, a journalist & adventurer who travelled into the heart of a man’s war. Telling her story and those of the communities at home, this show brings to life the impact of the Great War. The Harmonettes are past masters at working with the audience to involve everyone in a charming and engaging way.. Box Office: The Pound Arts Centre 01249 701628 £12 (£8 under 18s) www.poundarts.org.uk
Rodbourne Offers over ÂŁ800,000 A stunning four bedroom detached house situated in the desirable hamlet of Rodbourne, near Malmesbury. Reception hall I Two reception rooms I Kitchen/breakfast room I Utility and cloakroom I Four bedrooms I Three bathrooms (one en suite) I Charming features throughout I Private garden with far reaching views I Driveway crescent parking and garage
New Zealand ÂŁ500,000 This deceptively spacious home is located in the small hamlet of New Zealand, nestled amidst the Wiltshire countryside. Light and airy accommodation I Four reception rooms including conservatory I Four bedrooms I Two bathrooms (one en suite) I Large private gardens with stream I Garage and parking
111 High Street | Royal Wootton Bassett | SN4 7AU rwb@richardjames.info | 01793 855 117
7 richardjames.info
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
Local Focus
Diary Dates MAY 2016
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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Town Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ Tel:01666 823748 Email: tic@malmesbury.gov.uk “HIDDEN GEMS” AT THE ATHELSTAN MUSEUM Until 14th May A selection of our rarely seen objects from the collection PLANT SALE Tearooms at ‘The Rest’, Oaksey Village Hall, Wiltshire Every 2nd Saturday of the month (next one will be May 14th) Richard Jackson, holds a plant sale at the Tearooms in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity. SENIOR ALPHA COURSE An opportunity to explore the Christian faith with Churches Together in Malmesbury 2.30pm – 4.00pm – United Reformed Church, Horsefair, Malmesbury 10th May – Who is Jesus? 17th May – What is faith? 24th May – How to read the Bible 7th Jun – Who is the Holy Spirit? 14th Jun –Does God heal today? 21st Jun–What about the future? Tea & Cake provided – More information – Abbey Office 01666 826666/office@ malmesburyabbey.com MONKTON PARK SCARECROW TRAIL 14th and 15th of May 10am-5pm Theme is Disney Characters. Trail starts at Monkton Park Primary School, Chippenham where trail sheets can be purchased for £3. The trail will take you around the Monkton Park Estate guessing scarecrows as you go. There will be a BBQ on Saturday afternoon. monktonparkscarecrow@ outlook.com 8
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
WHITEFRIARS SAILING CLUB Try The Sport Day Sunday 15th May 10am – 4pm Lake 26 Whitefriars Lane SN6 6QR Bring soft-soled shoes, waterproof jacket & change of clothes, instructors and buoyancy aids will be provided Please call 01285 861670 for more information ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETTCARNIVAL Saturday 21st May 2016 www.woottonbassettcarnival. com CREATIVE COTERIE. “2016 COLLECTION” 9 local artists return to Westonbirt Arboretum to exhibit paintings, glassworks, jewellery and frames, showcasing their diverse mix of styles and media Thursday 26 May - Tuesday 31 May, 10am - 4pm. At The Great Oak Hall, Westonbirt Arboretum, GL8 8QS. CHIPPENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL 27-30th May 2016 www.chippfolk.co.uk MALMESBURY HUB INDOOR MARKET Saturday 28th May 10am – 2pm ST ALDHELM’S DAY FAIR Monday 30th May 10.30am – 3pm Events, stalls & activities in the Market Cross and Cloister Gardens in Malmesbury.
JUNE 2016
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LET’S GO FLY A KITE Wednesday 1 June 2016 10am Lydiard Park Drop in to our Half Term Creation Station at the Visitor Centre Gazebo and make your own kite to fly in the Park. Ideal for 11s and under. Price: £2 www.lydiardpark.org.uk CALNEFEST Saturday 4th June 2016 Calne Recreation Ground www.calnefest.co.uk
ELKSTONE VILLAGE GARDENS OPEN DAY Sunday 5th June 2pm – 6pm www.elkstonevillage.co.uk Many attractions as well as beautiful gardens to visit Adults £5, children free, car parking free.
Corsham WALKING FESTIVAL CORSHAM WALKING FESTIVAL 17th -19th June 2016 www.corshamwalkingfestival. org.uk BRISTOL CLASSIC CAR SHOW 18th – 19th June 2016 The Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN Carsandevents.com CRICKLADE TOWN FESTIVAL 2016 Sunday June 19th 2016 The Cricklade Festival is one of the West’s largest street events, attracting thousands of people from all over the area. With an aim of providing a totally free day out for all the family, The Cricklade Festival offers a funpacked day of entertainment www.crickladefestival.com NGS Wiltshire Open Gardens – DAUNTSEY GARDENS Sunday 19 June 2016 1.30pm Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN15 4HW www.ngs.org.uk MUSIC FOR ALL AT DAUNTSEY PARK HOUSE Friday 24th - Saturday 25th June See inside for full details. CONCERT Saturday 25th June, 7:30pm Malmesbury Abbey Oriel Singers A Madrigal Odessy mamsmusic.co.uk for ticketing and more information on our 2016 programme.
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01666 502262 www.vinotopiawine.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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Local Focus
Oaksey Tea Rooms celebrating 1st birthday It is now just over a year since the Tea Rooms at ‘The Rest’, Oaksey Village Hall, Wiltshire were opened on 16th April 2015.
Friday 8 and Saturday 9th July Malmesbury is the home of the Boondocks Festival, our very own music festival created in 2015 by the people of Malmesbury, to bring together the best talent from this historic town, along with musicians, artists, traders and artists from all over the country too, all in one weekend, and just a short walk from the market cross. Those who were there last year will remember just what a phenomenal success it was. The variety and quality of the musicians. The delicious home cooked food. The effective planning and organization. The family-friendly vibe. The awesome camping weather! Boondocks 2016 will take place on the same site just outside Malmesbury to hope to recreate the same magic, relaxed vibe and the quality experience. For 2016 there will be some upgrades on the original festival – one of the stages will be in a big top. And the incredibly successful kids’ area will be included in the U18 ticket price, with more activities for a broader age range, from babies (changing and feeding tent) right up to teenagers (phone charging points!). Food traders have already been secured taking us on a culinary trip from Mexico to Asia, from Greece to the USA, and there will bars serving everything from local real ales and cask ciders to chilled prosecco and cocktails. The line-up is being finalized as we speak, but the quality and sheer range of music in 2015 was a delight to all those who attended, and we’re confident that 2016 will manage to be even better. There are still some tickets available from the Summer Café on the High Street in Malmesbury, or from the Boondocks website www.theboondocksfestival.co.uk/tickets Adult tickets are £55 for the entire weekend, and under18s just £15, which includes entry to the kids area. Camping and campervan tickets are also available. 10
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
Elizabeth Adey who runs the Tea Rooms takes up the story: ”I have started a baking business from home and supply local hotels/businesses with jams, marmalades & cakes etc using local ingredients if I can, but my highlight of the week is running the Tea Rooms on a Fridays 9am-12.30pm & 2pm-5pm and Saturdays 9am-12.30pm. Its lovely to get to know my regulars and meet new faces and passers by too. There is always something to sample e.g. new flavours of fudge etc. and it does seem to be getting busier and busier. On sunny days, I open the big glass doors and put tables outside overlooking the playing field, school and church.” ”Every 2nd Saturday of the month (next one will be May 14th) one of my regulars, Richard Jackson, holds a plant sale at the Tearooms in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity in memory of his wife Ann.” You can find out more about the Tea Rooms at www.autumncottagekitchen.com.
Health Checks in the Park
Join us Saturday 14th May at Lydiard park 10am-1pm where as part of national veterinary nurse month our team of nurses will be offering FREE HEALTH CHECKS in the park for all dogs.
39B Station Road, Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire SN4 7ED Tel: 01793 230266 62-64 Purton Road, Swindon, SN2 2LZ Tel: 01793 526780 Open: Monday to Friday 9am-6.30pm Saturday 9am-12noon
www.thameswoodvets.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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Local Focus
With a little help from our valued Friends WILTSHIRE Air Ambulance (WAA) hosted supporters who are Life members of its Friends scheme at its Operations Centre in Devizes. The Friends were given a tour of the centre, shown round the charity’s Bell 429 helicopter and given a presentation about the history of WAA by Critical Care Paramedic Rich Miller.
Among the Friends who visited were Thelma and Colin Edwards who live on the Quakers Walk Estate, close to the existing WAA Operations Centre. They joined the Friends scheme in October 2013 and became Life members in November last year. Mrs Edwards said: “We became Friends of Wiltshire Air Ambulance soon after we moved to Devizes from West Sussex. One of the people living on our estate had reason to use the air ambulance and as a community we were involved with raising money for the charity by singing Christmas carols around the estate. The air ambulance is part of our community. It’s invaluable and we couldn’t do without it. “Since we became Friends we have learned more and more about the charity. We have been to the Annual General Meetings and other events, and we have been impressed by the information we are given and the way we are treated. We are treated as friends and we feel we are valued. We don’t just give to the charity, we feel appreciated – it’s a two way thing.” Another Friend who visited was Derek Wheeler, of Beckhampton Street, Swindon. Mr Wheeler, who became a Life member last October, said: “I think Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a very worthwhile cause. It’s something that I hope I will never need, but it is there for all of us should 12
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
the need ever arise. The Friends scheme is an excellent scheme and the talk we had at our visit was first class and everyone at the Operations Centre were very welcoming.” The charity has over 340 Friends since it launched the scheme in August 2013. Friends receive an exclusive lapel badge and car sticker and an invitation to an annual Friends event. Life members are also invited to an exclusive tour of the Operations Centre. Karen Gambrell, WAA’s Friends Manager, said: “We were delighted to welcome some of our Life members to the Operations Centre. We are extremely grateful to everyone who has become a Friend of Wiltshire Air Ambulance. The Friends scheme provides the charity with regular income which helps us to keep saving lives across Wiltshire.” The Friends scheme is £3 a month for individuals and £5 a month for joint membership. Life memberships are a one off payment of £300 for individuals and £500 for joint. For more information about the Friends scheme go to www. wiltshireairambulance.co.uk or call 01380 739453. Above: WAA Critical Care Paramedic Rich Miller with Life Friends members Thelma and Colin Edwards. Below: WAA Critical Care Paramedic Rich Miller with Life Friend member Derek Wheeler.
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Sevenhampton, Nr. Swindon 01793 763939 The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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Local Focus
Great season and bright future for Malmesbury Victoria FC A busy 15/16 season is rapidly drawing to a close for “The Vic’s” football teams and it’s been another great year both on an off the pitch. The First team are flying high in the Wiltshire Premier League, battling it out with rivals Shrewton FC and Trowbridge Town FC for the top slot, the latter being our final opponents of the season on 7th May, sadly this game is away but we are very much looking forward to the challenge.
For more information please call Liz on 0844 8000219
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Join a warm and friendly group near you today . . . Wednesday Royal Wootton Bassett Longleaze Primary School, Byron Avenue, 6:30pm Tel: Lisa 01793 737772
Thursday Purton St Mary's C of E Primary School College Road, 7:30pm Tel: Chris 07710 527719
Monday & Tuesday Royal Wootton Bassett Ridgeway House Tel: Malcolm 07825 251872 The Lawns, Mon 7:30pm & Tues 6:30pm
Monday Calne The John Bentley School White Horse Way, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tel: Georgie 07500 970751
for this delicious burger recipe visit
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
A huge work effort from the players, volunteers and committee has seen the club gain acceptance back into the next tier for the 16/17 season and will see us stepping up into either the Toolstation Western League or the Uhlsport Hellenic League, depending on league results across the south and west. The list of thanks in these efforts is very long and we will be publishing these on our Facebook and Twitter feeds shortly. Our Reserves and Youth Development Teams are both finishing strongly in their respective leagues and looking forward to tougher possible tougher challenges next season, giving the best support possible to our Firsts. We hope to be making some exciting announcements on this front in the coming weeks. We are very excited to be making a return to the Town Hall on 14th May for our end of season dinner and presentation night, a night of prizes, food, drinks and music (and the odd internationally capped guest) to say thanks to everyone involved in the club. The late May Bank Holiday will bring the muchrequested return of our Beer and Sausage Festival down at the Flying Monk Ground and we hope to see as many of our local friends and supporters at this event, there’s always a great atmosphere and plenty of activities for the whole family. Details, again, will be released on Facebook, Twitter and local media sources so keep your eyes peeled. We all look forward to seeing down the club soon and share in our new club mantra: “The Future Is Bright, The Future Is Black And White”
A.R.WOODWARD (EST. 1976)
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
15
Local Focus
Enterprising Wiltshire Awards
Dauntsey Music for all We are hosting a group of artists in Dauntsey Park on the 24/25 of June. The idea is to provide music experiences for different ages and tastes. FRIDAY 24 JUNE JAZZ @ Dauntsey Park House 19.00 /20.00 Zoe Rahman solo piano (MOMO award winner best UK JAZZ act) 21.00 Julia Biel (youtube) Vocals Piano, Idris Rahman Sax/Bass, Patrick Illingworth drums (all MOMO nominated) SATURDAY 25 JUNE
Julia’s House Children’s Hospice scooped a top award at the ‘Enterprising Wiltshire Awards’ at Bowood Hotel on Friday evening. - The award was for the ‘Most Innovative Service Award for 2016’ Pictured in the photo are Ged Montgomery and Heather Philpotts both from Julia’s House and Ged commented: “we are thrilled and delighted to pick up the award and a big thank you to ‘Wiltshire Council’ and ‘Inspire’ for their fabulous support in recognition of the work of Julia’s House in Wiltshire”. Julia’s House is a children’s hospice charity, dedicated to providing respite care to life-limited children and their families in Dorset and Wiltshire. They provide care at home, in the community and in the hospice near Poole. Having provided this specialist, expert care in Dorset since 2003, they expanded the service into Wiltshire two years ago, initially through a pilot service in the south of the county. The aim is for that service to be fully county-wide by the time their new Wiltshire children’s hospice opens in early 2017 in Devizes. Dan Carter, business development manager for Old Mill Group who presented the award said: “We are delighted Julia’s House are winners of this category. There was stiff competition in this category, but ultimately what they’re doing has never been done before and is a much needed service for Wiltshire families. Old Mill will continue to support this fantastic charity in any way we can.” 16
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
14.00 CHILDREN in the Park, Dauntsey Park Julia Biel, Idris Rahman, Patrick Illingworth, Zoe Rahman. Interactive children workshops and concerts Two sessions: one below 6 and one above 6 years old. 19.00 VIVALDI “The Four Seasons” Dauntsey St James the Great Church Minna Pensola solo violin (https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=MQ8CFn53l2A) Antti Tikkanen Leader first violin, Maria Wloszczowska violin, Andres Kaljuste viola Rebecca Gilliver cello, Jani Pensola double bass Sophia Rahman harpsichord 20.15 Interval Picnic on the lawn 21.00 SCHUBERT “The Trout” Dauntsey Park House Minna Pensola solo violin, Antti Tikkanen Leader first violin, Andres Kaljuste viola, Rebecca Gilliver cello, Jani Pensola double bass, Sophia Rahman harpsichord TICKETS: Mrs Ginnie Keen – ginniekeen@gmail.com Tel: 07748185544
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
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The Pear Tree at Purton
NNE YOUNG is the managing director of The Pear Tree and, since moving into the former rectory in the 1980s has lovingly redeveloped the grounds. She’s a keen gardener and shares her love of flowers and plants with many of the hotel and restaurant guests. “I love the sweeping open spaces with colour in the formal borders and our lily pond, all the way down the garden to the slightly longer grass with many trees, and finally into ‘my little haven of peace’ with wetlands, the wildflower area, bee hives and the vineyard. Each area has a different feel and the garden becomes more natural the further you explore.” “I think the first lawn mow is the big step to a new season, the smell of freshly mown grass, you can’t beat it. A good job is a final cut down of last year’s perennials and seeing the new growth slowly growing underneath. Just getting out in the garden is probably what most gardeners enjoy best.
“Don’t forget to dead head daffodils, and leave if possible for six weeks so the goodness goes back in the bulbs. If they are in pots, you can always dig a small hole in a border and pop them in there for a few weeks - same for tulips. “Keep an eye on weeds, they love sunshine and rain. I also like to redefine the grass border edges with a lawn edger as it immediately smartens up the garden.
wires. The vines are now in their 11th year. We expect a small growth in May, but keep our fingers crossed there are no frosts, it kills the budding grape flowers. The pinhead sized grape heads are always later than I expect, sometimes not until June. The grapes do most of their growing in July, August and September – it’s all about hours of sunshine.”
“Our vineyard has been dormant since November/ December. We are just about to have the big prune, plus tightening up the The Pear Tree of Purton is a 17-bedroom country house hotel which is also a family home. It’s child and dog friendly and offers a fine dining experience to nonresidents. The grounds are open to any guest to explore. Bookings can be made by phone 01793 772100 or online visit: www.peartreepurton.co.uk @peartreepurton
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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Vegetable Plants, Patio & Basket Plants, Seasonal Fresh Fruit & Veg, Bedding Plants etc. Trade and Retail Hanging Baskets made to order. Bring your own or buy one of our ready-made baskets. Everything grown on the Nursery. Friendly Cheerful Staff. Competitive prices. Quality Plants. Normal Nursery Opening times 9-4.30 (Closed Sundays & Mondays) Experts all Burrell, building works, 9 Sutton Lane,in Langley Chippenham SN15 4LW
renovations, conversions, decorating, Tel: 01249 720522 Mob: 07794 515938 kitchens and bathrooms for your www.meadowfarmnurseries.co.uk info@meadowfarmnurseries.co.uk home or business
Specialists in all roofing, Upvc fascias, soffits and guttering, leadwork, chimneys and sundry works for your home or business GAR_697653.pdf 13:49:24 January 15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah
Dave Newton Fencing enquiries@priorandcompany.com The Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw, Melksham SN12 8EF
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enquiries@mardenroofing.co.uk The Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw, Melksham SN12 8EF
www.mardenroofing.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016 26/01/2015
21 14:03
Puzzles Brand new for 2016!
PUZZLE CORNER
Sunday 12th June 2016 Cycle through 100km or 200km of beautiful countryside from our Dorset hospice in Corfe Mullen to Devizes, where we are building our new Wiltshire children’s hospice. FREE Julia’s House cycling jersey when you reach £200 sponsorship!
www.juliashouse.org /challenge
22
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
ACROSS 1 Persecute (6) 4 Leader (5) 8 Afterward (5) 9 Clap (7) 10 Remove hair (7) 11 Glade (4) 12 Allow (3) 14 Monster (4) 15 Bee house (4) 18 Blob (3) 21 Mature (4) 23 Flight personnel (7) 25 Degree (7) 26 World-class (5) 27 Claw (5) 28 Nap (6)
DOWN 1 Protective head gear (6) 2 Decomposing (7) 3 Shrieked (8) 4 Immitate (4) 5 Angry (5) 6 Violin (6) 7 Bread ring (5) 13 Baker’s dozen (8) 16 Dizziness (7) 17 Deferred payment (6) 19 Trivial (5) 20 Pluck (6) 22 Student (5) 24 Robe (4) Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 29
Ask AMS Advice for small businesses AMS Accountancy Ltd. 01793 818400
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Are there rules for giving mobile phones to my staff? Employers can provide many benefits to employees on top of their salary or wages. Some can be taxeffective, because the employer and employee may save tax providing a benefit instead of cash. Normally if an employer provides an ‘asset’ to an employee for personal use, the employee must pay tax on 20 % of the asset's value over a year. But! A mobile phone is exempt from this tax. The employer can deduct the cost from taxable profits and the employee doesn't have to pay tax even when it is used for private calls. However, the phone contract must be in the name of the business and NOT the employee.
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
23
Books
D
Sharing Stories
ID you know that May is National Share a Story Month? It’s an annual celebration of storytelling, and this year’s theme is A Place for Stories. The idea is that stories aren’t just for bedtime; they can be shared anywhere – under a tree, during a picnic, in a tent, during a train journey… You can read a book to someone, or pass it on, listen to an audio book together, or retell a story you know by heart. You could even make up a story. Whether you have five minutes spare this month, or a couple of hours, here are a few ideas to get you started sharing stories. • Organise a storytelling session in a local café. • Throw a teddy bear’s picnic and ask children to bring their favourite bear related books. • Ask your local shop whether you can have a small corner to use as a free library. Invite people to bring old books in, and borrow others. • Organise a book swap with friends, or through a school. You could even turn this into a fundraising event, by charging people a small amount for entrance, or for a cup of tea and slice of cake. • Build a den, lay down a blanket and read stories with your family. • Download the ePub and Kindle apps for your Smartphone, so that you can read ebooks when you’re out and about. • Write a book with your child. They could draw pictures, or you could cut ones out from old magazines.
Fancy treating yourself, or someone else, to a new book this month? Here are a few of our favourites Under 5s: Whoa! Joe by Rosie Godfrey is a beautifully illustrated book about a three year old’s imagination, and the adventures it takes him on. It even comes with a story CD included. 5-8: Daisy and the Trouble with Life by Kes Gray. Daisy is always getting into trouble and this story is no exception. She’s grounded, but why? And why does she keep rushing off to the loo? 9 upwards: The Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. Adventures are aplenty in this fantastical story of a girl called Lyra Belacqua and her ‘dæmon’ companion, Pan. Teenage: Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman won a National Book Award last year, and it’s not difficult to see why. A moving, yet funny, book, Challenger Deep explores the world of a teenager battling with schizophrenia.
For more information about National Share a Story Month, visit: www.fcbg.org.uk 24
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
Adult: The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick. Follow Arthur on his quest to discover the origin of the charms on his late wife’s bracelet. A hugely enjoyable read.
by Kate Duggan
Emma Jayne Taylor Local author Emma Jayne Taylor began to write to encourage young readers to find excitement in reading. Her books are fastpaced, thrilling and full of unexpected twists. The recommended age guidance is 16+. Emma’s background includes travel; high energy sport and Martial Arts, which brings the vibrancy into the thrilling stories. Emma lives locally (Blunsdon) and works part time in Royal Wootton Bassett. The three book titles are:
Prepared Raw, Delivered Raw and Prepared Raw, Delivered Raw and Eaten Raw ... just as nature intended Eaten Raw ... just as nature intended
..using ..using only only the the finest finest ingredients ingredients from local from local farms. farms.
Complete meals start from £0.80 per 500g Complete meals start from £0.80 per 500g Treats e.g. tripe sticks, honey pigs ears Treats e.g. tripe sticks, honey pigs ears start from £0.50 per bag. start from £0.50 per bag. For a happier & healthier canine For a happier & healthier canine call Buddy’s today…. call Buddy’s today….
Tel: Tel: 07880 07880 331492 331492
buddysrawmeat@hotmail.com buddysrawmeat@hotmail.com www.buddysrawfood.com www.buddysrawfood.com
Buddy’s, Sherston, nr Malmesbury, Wiltshire Buddy’s, Sherston, nr Malmesbury, Wiltshire
Delivery to Wiltshire and Gloucestershire
Autobiography of a Vampire: An original vampire story of love and concealment amongst humans. Eternal Love and Protection: A thriller that tells of how one man goes through unusual and unexpected experiences in order to find a happier life. The Spiritual Prophecy: This is a battle of good vs evil, where humans begin to become consumed by a dark energy. Only those few enlightened people have the power to fight against the dark energy in order to attempt to save the Earth. Visit Emma’s website: www.ejtaylorbooks.com where there are links to the Amazon bookstore, for Kindle or paperback versions. The books can also be ordered from major book stores.
WIN A SIGNED COPY OF EMMA’S BOOK!
Emma is giving away one signed copy of a book of your choice (from the above three titles). To be in with a chance of winning this prize, all you need to do is email your name and the title of the book you would like to win to: production@towncriermagazine.com. The lucky winner will be informed by email. The Editor’s decision is final.
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.
26/26a High Street Royal Wootton Bassett Wiltshire SN4 7AA
Sales: 01793 840222 Lettings: 01793 855222 www.alanhawkins.co.uk
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
25
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Pets
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Is your pet losing the spring in its step? Dr Emma Pemberthy BVM BVS MRCVS
www.georgevetgroup.co.uk The George Veterinary Hospital: 01666 823165 Branch Surgery Royal Wootton Bassett: 01793 852458 As the beautiful spring weather finally starts to bathe the UK in some much needed sunshine, many people will start to feel their arthritis improve. The same is also true of many of our older companions. Arthritis is something that affects many older pets and sometimes the changes can be very subtle, or attributed to the normal ageing process, but often there is underlying bone disease and pain. Some of the main signs of arthritis in dogs include: • Stiffness after waking up • Not wanting to walk as far as usual • Not running as much • Becoming less playful • Stiffness when moving • Lameness Whilst some of the main signs in cats include: • Sleeping more • Becoming less playful (with other pets/toys) • Not jumping onto high surfaces that they could previously reach • Decreased grooming • Stiffness when moving • Lameness If you suspect your pet has some degree of arthritis, a veterinary exam can confirm your suspicions. We may also recommend an x-ray of the affected area(s) in order to confirm the presence of the arthritis, but this may not be necessary. 26
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
Arthritis can be treated through different approaches and sometimes a combination is required. Treatment options include: • pain relief (something your vet can prescribe after seeing your pet) • ensuring your animal is the correct weight – being overweight puts extra strain on the joints and can make the problem worse • changing how your pet exercises; regular, moderate exercise is the key • joint supplements to help the joints try and work as well as possible • Acupuncture – at The George, Iain Hunt is our resident acupuncturist • Physiotherapy/hydrotherapy to help build up muscle and improve fitness Unfortunately, arthritis is something we cannot really reverse once it starts and it will usually progress with time. Instead, what we try to do is to make our pets as comfortable as possible for as long as we can, so that they can have the best quality of life for as long as possible. So, if you think your pet could benefit from some veterinary attention, book an appointment today and we will be more than happy to assist and advise on the best course of treatment to put a spring back in their step.
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27
Gardening Gardening
Biological warfare!
I
’M a huge fan of biological warfare. But before you all write in to complain about my radical stance, I’m really not talking about anthrax and Ebola: I’m talking about using nature to tip the balance in favour of us gardeners. Ladybirds are my favourite biological control. They feast on aphids (greenfly) and during their year long lifespan they can scoff 5000 of them! Ladybird larvae are long and black with orange spots. They look a bit mean but don’t be tempted to squish them as they are also voracious aphid-eaters. Lacewing larvae eat 300 aphids each before turning into adult lacewings and guzzling down even more, and even the much maligned wasp has a taste for greenfly so don’t be too quick to swat it with your gardening glove; it’s actually protecting your roses. The beautiful song thrush is in decline, but it loves to eat slugs 28
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
and snails. Thrushes were very susceptible to slug-bait poison based on methiocarb and this was banned by the EU in 2014. The most common ingredient now is metaldehyde which is still very toxic to many garden beasts (as well as domestic animals). And slug bait is a very inefficient way to dispose of your slug population anyway, reducing it on average by just 10%. Frogs and toads are great slugeaters, as are hedgehogs. The former can be encouraged by providing them with a tiny pond: it really doesn’t have to be much bigger than a bucket sunk into the ground. Hedgehogs prefer a pile of logs to hide under, or you could invest in a hedgehog house. There are many handsome ones about, though if you’re a bit of a handyman you could probably make one yourself. The big new thing in biological pest control in recent years was the arrival of pre-packed
nematodes and mites. Nematodes are tiny parasites which are watered on to a problem area when the soil temperature is 10C or greater. The nematodes enter the pest and reproduce inside it, killing it in the process. When the pest dies they are then released back into the soil, ready to infect new pests. There are nematodes to target slugs, vine weevils and ants. Predatory mites are also available to target red spider mite and thrips. All of these methods have the advantage of targeting a particular pest very specifically without causing damage to the environment. Of course with organic gardening you’re unlikely to get a pristine plot but don’t despair about the odd blemish. See it as a positive sign that you care about the environment and the wildlife in your garden then repeat after me, blemishes are beautiful...
by Rachel Leverton
Crossword & Sudoku solution page 22
Kitchen Makeover Are your kitchen cabinets OK, but the doors and drawer fronts are looking a little tired? Why not consider a kitchen makeover? By replacing the doors and drawer fronts plus a new worktop you can achieve the look of a new stylish kitchen. Saving you time, money and a lot of upheaval. Complete kitchens and bedrooms also available. Extensive range of door colours and designs. We are a family run business with over 30 years experience in specialist carpentry and joinery. We can plan, design and fit your kitchen complete including any building or alteration work. Call Peter Galbraith now for a free survey and estimate Tel: 01793 741234 Visit our website @ pgalbraith24.wordpress.com
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28-30 Calne Business Centre, Harris Road, Portemarsh Industrial Estate, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9PT The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
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Health & Beauty
Sunglasses by Susan Brookes-Morris
I
T’S really important to wear sunglasses, to protect your eyes against harmful ultraviolet (UV) light. UV rays can cause damage to your eyes which could lead to cataracts. These cause clouding of the lens, reduced vision and even blindness if left untreated. Most sunglasses now filter out both UVA and UVB rays. There is a vast array of sunglasses to choose from including prescription sunglasses. There may be a few styles that aren‘t suitable for your prescription but an expert can advise on this. It is important to think about the shape of your face to determine which sunglasses may suit you best. Decide whether your face is heart shaped, round, oval or square, as this will help you work out whether square frames, cat’s eye shape, aviator style, shield, oversized or sport may work best for you. Those with heart-shaped faces will generally
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The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
find that frames that are wider at the top than the bottom will look best, whilst oversized, rectangular and angular frames will counterbalance a round face and shallow rectangular frames will visually shorten a long face. Think about your colouring too. What frame colours will suit your skin tone and hair colouring? Those who are fair may find pastel shades or transparent frames most complimentary. Of course you may want to make a statement and choose a bolder frame. Sunglass lenses are usually plastic for increased durability and versatility. Some opticians offer a range of different colour lenses from the more traditional browns and greys to yellows, blues and green. Different tints suit particular circumstances such as green for enhancing contrast and thus being really helpful for those who play sports like golf.
There are a variety of tints too. Dark tints are best for mountains and sea and lightlytinted for more urban and general environments. All sunglasses reduce brightness, but to reduce glare as well, you need polarized lenses. They are particularly effective when driving, skiing or fishing as they block glare increase contrast. As with all spectacles you have the choice of designer brands such as Ray Ban, Ted Baker and Oakley or non-designer. There is an element of fashion and celebrity endorsement too. Check out the latest looks at your local optician or fashion chain. It’s always helpful to seek the assistance of a store professional to help you select the most suitable sunglasses, particularly to check that the specification will offer you the correct protection but also to advise on aesthetics.
The Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016
31
Pleased to welcome Paul Vitti to our team! Past and present clients all welcome Paul Vitti
Jo Bunkasem
Paul is here Wednesdays and Thursdays so feel free to pop in to see him and the rest of the team!
Deborah Reay
Chelsea Parr
Contact your local property experts today on 01793 855 117 rwb@richardjames.info | richardjames.info
Royal Wootton Bassett office 111 High Street | Royal Wootton Bassett Wiltshire | SN4 7AU Opening hours Mon-Fri: 9:00am – 6:00pm Sat: 9:00am – 4:00pm Old32Town Town Centre | Wroughton The|Town Crier Magazine | MAY 2016| West Swindon | Highworth | East Swindon | Faringdon | Royal Wootton Bassett