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SP CHR E C IS T IAL M ISS AS UE

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Covering MALMESBURY, ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT and villages

Your Local

www.towncriermagazine.com

TownCr er Magazine FREE

DECEMBER 2015

Merry Christmas!

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MAS CHRIST ition Compet 4 See page

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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CHRISTMAS 2015 IN THIS CHRISTMAS ISSUE

Editor’s Letter Welcome to the Christmas issue of Your Local Town Crier.

Half the presents are bought and wrapped - I’m well on the way to Christmas!! The Town Crier can help you with your Christmas too - why not enter our Christmas competition this month.

With great prizes to be won it’s got to be worth a go - see page 24 for all the details.

As 2015 comes to an end, once again, we at the Town Crier would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you, our advertisers, readers and contributors for your continued support throughout the year. We are always interested in receiving items of local interest from our readers, and please also send in your What’s On events.

Finally, can we wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and A Happy and Prosperous New Year - see you in 2016!

Until next time ...

Annie

Your Local

TownCr er Magazine The Stables, Fishers Brook, Calne, Wilts. SN11 9HB Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the January 2016 issue: 8th December 2015 Editor: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: contact@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.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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Local Focus Local News and Events

20 Puzzle Corner

Crossword & Sudoku 24 Competition

Christmas Special 26 Recipe Eggnog 30 Gardening

Which Christmas Tree?

32 Kevin Sanders

Website in 2016 34 A Good Christmas Read

Christmas Books

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Tel: 01666 837 580 Mob: 07815 932 197 The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U

d L cal Focus DECEMBER 2015

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

Sainsbury’s help Swindon Women’s Aid Representatives from Swindon Women’s Aid visited Sainsbury’s store in Stratton today and were delighted to be presented with several boxes of brand new clothing. The charity runs a refuge in the town to care for victims of domestic abuse, some of who arrive on the hostel’s doorstep with nothing more than the clothes they stand up in, so the gift of warm clothing is something that will be well received.

Speaking for Swindon Women’s Aid, Natasha Wilson was quick to thank the store saying ‘We are really grateful to our friends at Sainsbury’s for this kind gesture and can assure them that these items will be put to very good use.’

Kathryn wins AMS card competition Kathryn Barrett of year 6 at the Lawn Primary School has won the annual ‘design a Christmas card’ competition that AMS Accountancy Ltd. run with the school. Kathryn – known as Katy has won an Amazon voucher for £25 and AMS donated £250 to the school.

Katy described her card as a reindeer being nosey!

Deputy Head, Emma Jelley said ‘We love working with AMS and the children in Y6 get very excited by the competition’. Barbara French, Partner at AMS said many of our clients are fans of our lovely Christmas cards.

Your Local

TownCr er Magazine

To submit your What’s On go to towncriermagazine.com/submit-your-event

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

Val Atwill, Store Manager at Stratton, was equally enthusiastic. ‘We got to know the charity very well last Christmas when we organised a donation point for them and our generous customers and colleagues gave an astounding amount of four and a half trolley loads of vital items such as toothbrushes, underwear, washing gear and clothing.’ She went on to explain, ‘When this opportunity came up we immediately thought of Swindon Women’s Aid and the brilliant work they do. We know that these items will come in very handy and we are delighted to be able to help.’

Barrie Matthews, Sainsbury’s Stratton Photo: from left to right Marlene Mann, Tricia Carter (both Sainsburys,) Natasha Wilson, Swindon Womens Aid and Val Atwill, Sainsburys Store Manager

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What's On

Diary Dates DECEMBER 2015

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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Town Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ Tel:01666 823748 Email: tic@malmesbury.gov.uk ARTISAN & FARMERS’ MARKET every Friday in the Market Cross Malmesbury 9am-3pm LINE DANCING Cotswold House, Gloucester Road, Malmesbury Thursdays 7.30-9.00, weekly £30 for block of 7 sessions, or £5 per session All levels welcome.

For further info or to book a place contact Tracey T: 07835467551, E: traceygorrod@btinternet.com Facebook page: Malmesbury Line Dancing Group THE NORTH WILTSHIRE VILLAGE FLOWER CLUB Meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month in Crudwell Village Hall at 7.30pm – Contact Gill on 01666 824813 for details MALMESBURY MORRIS meets every Thursday at Corston Reading Room at 7.30pm New dancers and musicians very welcome LEARN TO CROCHET – DOLLY BOBBINS CLASSES & WORKSHOPS 2015 Various classes and workshops running from August 2015 For Beginner/Novice/Improver/ Intermediate Crochet/Crochet Square Joining/Bunting/Flowers/ Understanding Charts/Mandalas/ Dollies/Knitting Cost £15 for adults. £10 for children. Further information of all dates and times; Email: dollybobbins@hotmail.com Telephone: 07835467551 www. facebook.com/dollybobbins.co.uk VICTORIA ART GALLERY, BATH Tel: (01225) 477244 Kurt Jackson exhibition runs until 3rd Jan. Grayson Perry exhibition runs from 9th Jan – 10 April 2016

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ZUMBA FITNESS! Salsa, Jive, Cha-Cha and much more No experience necessary Mondays 9.15 – 10.15am £5.50 per session. Contact Becky for more information 07837 930986 WILTSHIRE’S STORY IN 100 OBJECTS 12 October to 13 December 2015 Athelstan Museum. A fascinating display of objects brought together from many of the museums in Wiltshire - a major feat in itself.

They tell the story of the people of Wiltshire from Stonehenge to the modern age. Come and pick out your favourite piece of history.

FESTIVE FUN IN ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT Friday 4th December 2015 Royal Wootton Bassett will be in the Christmas spirit on Friday 4th December for this year’s Christmas Lights and Shopping Event on the High Street.

MALMESBURY LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Friday 4th December 2015.

The annual Malmesbury Late Night Christmas Shopping event. All the usual fun will be provided including Santa in his grotto.

BASSETT WINTER EXPO Sat 5th December 2015, 11am-3pm Manor House Enterprise Centre, High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett Everyone welcome to this free event. Advice, workshops and presentations for business and pleasure: Tel: 01793 230708 SALON BAROQUE PRESENTS “A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS” Friday 4th December, doors open at 7.30pm at Abbey House Malmesbury Words and music to celebrate the festive season. Tickets £15, includes seasonal food and wine available from Miles Morgan Travel WESSEX CONCERT ORCHESTRA – WINTER CONCERT Saturday 5th December at 7.30pm at the Neeld Hall Chippenham Tickets £12 (concessions £10) available from Chippenham Tourist Information Centre or on the door.

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT CHORAL SOCIETY CONCERT FOR CHRISTMAS Monday 7th December at The Methodist Church High Street Royal Wootton Bassett Start at 7.30pm. Programme includes music by Rutter, Gjeilo, Chilcott and many popular carols.

Free Entry Retiring collection.

Refreshments.

MALMESBURY SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT “HAIL STAR!” Saturday 12th December 7.30pm at Malmesbury Abbey Tickets £12 (concessions £10, children/students £5) available from the Abbey Bookshop

SHERSTON MARKET 12 December 2015, Malmesbury The monthly markets have a wide range of bespoke and unique stalls including food, crafts, clothes and one for a local good cause. There’s also a café serving hot and cold food and drink. www.sherstonmarket.co.uk SWINDON AND CRICKLADE RAILWAY SANTA SPECIALS From: 12 Dec 2015 to 13 Dec 2015 From: 19 Dec 2015 to 20 Dec 2015 Blunsdon, Swindon Bring the children to ride on a steam train and meet Santa in his Grotto! Meet the engine before you see Santa! Presents to suit all ages from toddlers up to early teens. Just a short journey out of Swindon to our free car park at blunsdon station. Swindon and Cricklade Railway, North Wiltshire m +44 (0) 1793 771615 www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org MALMESBURY FILM SOCIETY ‘THE THIN MAN’ Sunday 20th December 7.30pm at St Mary’s Hall, Malmesbury £5 per film, no need to book ISOLATION AT CHRISTMAS DINNER Wednesday 23rd December 12pm for 12.30pm in the Hub at the Town Hall For more details please contact HEALS on 01666 238100

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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What’s On

Wessex Concert Orchestra The Wessex Concert Orchestra is looking forward to returning to the newly refurbished Neeld Hall in Chippenham for their very popular Christmas Concert on Saturday 5th December at 7.30pm.

The programme includes: Die Fledermaus Overture – Strauss II Sleigh Ride – Delius, Winter – Glazunov, Troika – Prokofiev, In the Steppes of Central Asia – Borodin The second half of the concert will be well known Christmas music such as White Christmas, Sleigh Ride, Winter Wonderland and Howard Blake’s Snowman Suite. And there will be a chance to sing along with the orchestra to Christmas Carols for a rousing finale!

Tickets at £12 and £10 concessions available from The Neeld ticket office, the website www.wco.org.uk, members, or on the door. Last year this was a sell out!

Wessex Concert Orchestra is a vibrant, sociable symphony orchestra based in Chippenham. We meet on Monday evenings and perform 3 concerts a year.

Find out more at www.wco.org.uk

Movies@Malmesbury Spectre – Monday 7th December 8.00pm & Friday 18th December 5.30pm National Theatre Live – Jane Eyre – Tuesday 8th December 7.00pm Suffragette – Friday 11th December 8.00pm & Monday 21st December 2.00pm Florence & The Uffizi Gallery – Monday 14th December 7.00pm ROH Nutcracker Ballet – Wednesday 16th December 7.15pm The Martian – Friday 18th December 8.00pm & Monday 21st December 8.00pm Tickets available from Malmesbury Tourist Information Centre or www.oxboffice.com www.malmesbury.gov.uk/cinema.html

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

Boost for Threshold in helping the homeless Charity group Threshold have received a big boost in their efforts to help homeless people in Swindon this week with the announcement of a new tie-up with Sainsbury’s! The store in Stratton has offered to supply excess bakery products to the charity on a daily basis and Threshold are delighted to be able to use this to help feed many more people currently on the streets.

Kristie Phillips, Events & Fundraising Co-ordinator for the organisation, says, ‘we are experiencing a high level of homelessness right now in Swindon and this offer of help from Sainsbury’s is as timely as it is welcome. This will enable us to provide hot, nourishing meals for folk who really need them’.

For Sainsbury’s, Store Manager Val Atwill is equally pleased with the partnership. ‘To be able to set this up on a regular basis is hugely satisfying and, like Kristie, hope we can turn this into a long term relationship’.

(L-R): Val Atwill, Steve Baker, Kristie Phillips and Barrie Matthews.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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Local Focus

Wessex Male Choir Christmas 2015 Christmas Concert Friday 18th December 7.30pm If you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit this year then the award-winning Wessex Male Choir’s 10th annual Christmas concert is certain to bring some yuletide cheer with some well-loved carols and songs for this magical time of year!

This concert is the culmination of the choir’s 2015 Christmas season and comes hot on the heels of the high-profile charity fundraising concerts in London and Oxford the preceding week.

The concert is taking place on Friday 18th December at 7.30pm at Holy Rood Church, Groundwell Road in Swindon.

Tickets are now on sale and cost £15. For children under 16s it’s free!

Tickets can be bought from The information Office, Swindon Central Library, Regent Circus Swindon Tel 01793 466454 or from the Choir on Tel 01285 869955 or by email at tickets@wessexmalechoir.co.uk Musical director Katrine Reimers said “We will be singing some favourite Christmas classics including It’s the Most Wonderful time of the Year, the Sussex Carol and Mary’s Boy Child – guaranteed to get you in the mood for Christmas!”

The choir’s special guests are the Aldbourne Brass Band which will add its own Christmas sparkle to the evening. Come and join in the Yuletide fun!

THE NEW ME

An emotive insig ht back to life after into the true story of Hugh’s journey a birthday celeb ration that went wrong. In an unim badly prospect of living aginable situation, faced with life the of his former self, as a bed-bound, ghost-like figure Hugh reveals utterly transform how his life was ed.

What propels this chronicle of recovery is daily diaries writt the personal en during and fatal brain injur after Hugh’s near y. They expose ly the reflections members throu of family ghou and will take the t the good and the bad time s, reader on a journ ey filled with raw emotion.

For months there seemed to be no way back from near-death expe this but despite ever rience. It was impossible to know it, yday adversity and against profe opinion, Hugh ssional pulled through.

Life would resu me, but to what extent?

by Hugh Smith

I’d like to introduce you to ‘The New Me’, a book written by myself after a severe traumatic brain injury I sustained on my 21st birthday.

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I live, and have done for over 20 years, in Luckington, I attended Malmesbury School and went on to study for a degree at Loughborough University. The New Me is an emotive insight into the true story of my journey back to life after a birthday celebration that went badly wrong. In an unimaginable situation, faced with the prospect of living life as a bed-bound, ghost-like figure of my former self, the book reveals how my life was utterly transformed.

What propels this chronicle of recovery is the personal daily diaries written during and after my nearly fatal brain injury. They expose the reflections of family members throughout the good and the bad times, and will take the reader on a journey filled with raw emotion. It was impossible to know it, but despite everyday adversity and against professional opinion, I did pull through. Life resumed, but to what extent?

The New Me can be bought via my website (www.hughsmith.me.uk) or Amazon.

Royal Wootton Bassett Choral Society Concert for Christmas Monday 7th December at The Methodist Church High Street Royal Wootton Bassett Start at 7.30pm

Wessex Male Choir Christmas concert in St James Church Paddington for Parkinsons UK in December 2014

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

Programme includes music by Rutter, Gjeilo, Chilcott and many popular carols. Free Entry.

Retiring collection. Refreshments

love

Slimming World 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

Visit the website to read Zoes story… slimmingworld.com 0844 897 8000

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

15

Local Focus

Wiltshire Air Ambulance require more locations for Textile Recycling Banks WILTSHIRE Air Ambulance (WAA) is asking the public to suggest locations where mini textile recycling banks could be situated.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance paramedic Steve Riddle with the Charity’s calendar and one of the Christmas cards.

WILTSHIRE AIR AMBULANCE CALENDAR AND CHRISTMAS CARDS AERIAL photographs of iconic Wiltshire landmarks and rural scenes feature in Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s 2016 calendar. The charity’s new helicopter, a Bell 429, features in many of the photographs in the calendar.

In one photograph it is pictured in the sky above Wiltshire with the county’s previous helicopter, an MD 902, used by Wiltshire Police and Wiltshire Air Ambulance (WAA). Others include the Bell 429 above the Westbury White Horse and the Caen Hill Flight of Locks in Devizes. There are also aerial photographs of iconic landmarks including Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral. All the images in the calendar have been generously donated by the photographers involved.

Claire Kelly, Head of People, Vision and Values at WAA, said: “It’s been a few years since we produced a calendar and we hope that people will enjoy seeing parts of Wiltshire from the air. The photographs highlight our rural county and show some of our operation.”

The charity’s helicopter also features on its new Christmas cards. One design is of the helicopter flying over the Cherhill Monument and White Horse while another design features it flying over the Westbury White Horse. Another six designs features traditional Christmas scenes, including Santa and a Robin.

The Christmas cards are priced £4 for a pack of ten. A triple pack, called Bethlehem, has 15 cards. The calendar is priced £5. Also for sale is the WAA 2016 diary, price £3. They are all available from outlets including WAA’s charity office at Carlton House, Maundrell Road, Calne, Wiltshire Police HQs reception in London Road, Devizes and the WAA Supporters Shop in Maristow Street, Westbury. For a full list of outlets go to www. wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/support-us/buy-ourchristmas-cards

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

The charity receives £250 for every tonne of textiles (clothing and shoes) recycled by Devizes Textiles Ltd from the mini textile recycling banks it operates.

Danny Williamson, senior contracts manager at Devizes Textiles Ltd, said: “Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a valuable service and saves so many lives. “We need help to identify possible sites in Wiltshire for more mini textile recycling banks. Textile recycling is an easy way to raise money as well as recycling and reducing waste. Sites could be at shopping centres, supermarkets, businesses, village halls, schools or pubs.”

Devizes Textiles began raising money for WAA in 2009 with half a dozen mini textile recycling banks.

Over the years the number of banks has grown steadily and there are now 80. Cheryl Johnson, Head of Fundraising and Communications at WAA, said: “Since we started operating as a stand-alone air ambulance in January this year it costs £2.5 million a year to keep our helicopter flying. The mini textile recycling banks operated by Devizes Textiles Ltd have proven to be popular and if we can increase the number of banks it would help raise more money for our lifesaving service.

“If people have suggestions for easily accessible sites for a mini textile recycling bank where they live, shop or work, then Devizes Textiles Ltd would love to hear from them. If another charity’s textile bank is already on site, then it’s usually not possible to house another charity collection bank on the same site.”

To suggest a possible location for a mini textile recycling bank please email info@devizestextiles.com or call Devizes Textiles Ltd on 01380 724451.

For more information about textile recycling and locations of existing banks go to: www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/support-us/ textile-recycling

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The StoneHouse team is expanding. To introduce our new, highly experienced therapists we invite you to take advantage of an introductory offer of three sessions of Physiotherapy, Osteopathy or Pilates lessons, for the price of two*.

T: 01249 700 417 www.stonehouseclinic.co.uk PLEASE QUOTE REFERENCE YL/001 WHEN BOOKING *To qualify initial appointment must be made before 31.12.16 The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

17

What’s On

‘A Colourful Life in Painting’ Craigie Aitchison RA CBE Swindon Museum and Gallery Open to the public until 9 January 2016 Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 3pm, others times by prior arrangement.

The exhibition compromises paintings from throughout Craigie Aitchison’s career. He relished colour and is celebrated as one of our most important artists of the 20th Century for the intensity of his palette, his flat, almost two-dimensional forms and simple icon-like compositions. His distinctive subject matter consisting of still life, landscapes, portraits, nudes, Bedlington terriers and crucifixions, are all rendered in vibrant, luminous colour, and powerfully invoke both the early Italian Renaissance as well as the British visionary tradition.

‘A Colourful Life in Painting’ includes works from each decade of the artist’s career. ‘Still Life with Jug and Check Sweater, 1952’ was painted when he was a studying at the Slade School of Fine Art in London (1952–4). In ‘Landscape with Mountain (Holy Island)’, 1977 there is a glowing light behind the Scottish scenery of his childhood. ‘Portrait of Naaotwa with Black Headdress’, 2006 balances the dark tones of one of his favoured models with the vivid rose background in a simple, luminous composition.

‘Crucifixion June’ was his final large crucifixion canvas painted the summer before he died in 2009.

This exhibition is curated by Meryl Ainslie, of Rabley Contemporary Gallery and Terry Danziger – Miles, executor of the Craigie Aitchison Estate, in collaboration with Sophie Cummings, curator of Swindon Museum and Gallery. It includes more than 20 paintings kindly loaned from the Estate of Craigie Aitchison and private collections.

Notes: Rabley Contemporary Gallery is the official representative to The Estate of Craigie Aitchison RA. Paintings and Original Prints are available from Rabley Contemporary.

Images: Crucifixion June 2009 Landscape with Mountain (Holy Island) 1977 The exhibition at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery can be viewed alongside work in the Swindon Permanent Collection by his friends and contemporaries, including Leon Kossoff and Jeffery Camp.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

Nicki Western, Marketing, Events and Premises Manager, Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Swindon Borough Council Mob: 07786 020958 / 01793 466560 www.swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk

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19

Local Focus

PUZZLE CORNER

Withy King raises £20k for RUH Cancer Centre Local solicitors Withy King have become a Corporate Partner of The Forever Friends Appeal having raised £20,000 in support of the Cancer Care Campaign.

Withy King selected The Forever Friends Appeal as their chosen charity between 2013-2015 and have been fundraising for the past two years. To thank Withy King for all their hard work and support, Big Ted visited staff at their Midland Bridge Office to present a commemorative Corporate Partner plaque to display in their office. That’s not all! As a Corporate Partner for the Cancer Care Campaign, Withy King will receive a facility naming opportunity within the pioneering new Cancer Centre, a lasting acknowledgement of all their support.

Withy King values the importance of creating and building relationships, not only with their clients but with the wider community. This is reflected by the staff involvement in fundraising and supporting The Forever Friends Appeal. Throughout the past two years staff have been getting involved with Forever Friends Appeal events such as the Walk of Life and taking part in Bath Half Corporate Challenges. In 2014 staff took on a summer of sport organizing a three peaks challenge and completing the Bike Bath 60 mile cycle ride. Plus the company has donated their expertise by taking part in Make A Will Month this September.

For more information about The Forever Friends Appeal’s Corporate Partnership scheme and the RUH Cancer Care Campaign to help build a pioneering new Cancer Centre, visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk.

Big Ted presents Withy King with their Corporate Partner plaque for raising £20k for the Cancer Care Campaign.

Featured are members of the Withy King Charities Committee from left to right: Clizia Motterle, Jo Grimes, Sophie Webb, Laura Andrews, Laura Podger, Rachel Jones

20

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

DOWN ACROSS 1 Bolting, racing (7) 1 _____ Dahl, wrote Matilda (5) 2 Fourth month, girl’s name (5) 4 Breezy (5) 3 Female deer (3) 7 Most furious (8) 4 Team sport played in a 8 Streetcar (4) swimming pool (5,4) 9 Large passenger aeroplane (8) 5 Popular team sport, mostly 11 Lowest female singing voice (4) played by women (7) 12 Horrified, shocked (6) 6 Fungus used in bread-making (5) 14 Compel, coerce (6) 10 Memo pad (9) 16 Perishes, succumbs (4) 13 Metallic grey poisonous chemical (7) 18 Complications, obstacles (8) 20 Famous boys’ boarding school (4) 15 Acrobat, tumbler (7) 17 Bury, place inside a tomb (5) 21 Italian hard cheese (8) 19 Feudal lord (5) 23 Type of bike (5) 22 Decompose, deteriorate (3) 24 Titbit, goody (5) Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 34

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21

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Flying Monk Brewery From their base near the historic town of Malmesbury, Flying Monk Brewery brew great tasting, award-winning beers and sell ground breaking, deliciously refreshing ciders. They supply their beers and ciders to the public and trade across the South West.

Fresh ingredients are the key to making good beer and they grind, or more correctly, mill all their own barley in their brewery to capture the maximum flavour in their beers. All their hops are delivered vacuum-packed, capturing the flavours which define their award-winning beers.

Flying Monk produce some of the most popular beers around, but more goes on in their microbrewery than you might think! You can see it all in action, with bespoke tours available for groups of all sizes, for special occasions, or just a bit of fun. Try before you buy with tasters straight from the barrel and take your brew home with barrels, bag-inboxes and bottles available to purchase on-site.

Keep an eye out for events at the brewery. To book a tour or place your order, call us on 01666 838415.

Elmers Elmers is a 3.8% pale bitter, brewed with Maris Otter malt, hopped with East Kent Goldings and Nelson Sauvignon. A lot of love has gone into Elmers and it has been going down a storm in pubs.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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23

Competition

Christmas Competition

This Christmas the Town Crier is offering you the chance to win this great prize: 20 litres (36 pints) of Elmers worth £50 from FLYING MONK BREWERY A Dog & Cat Toy worth £20 from GEORGE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

A Voucher for LED low energy light bulbs worth £40 from WEC A Session on the Ice rink for a family of 4 worth £50 from WHITEHALL GARDEN CENTRE For a chance to win this great prize, worth a total of over £150, enter our competition and answer the following question: What group had a number one hit single in the UK in 1973 with the song Merry Xmas Everybody?

A) Slade B) Monkees C) Beatles Email your answer, your name and where you are from to: jake.sales@towncriermagazine.com The Editor’s decision is final. Closing date 18th December 2015. You must be over 18 to enter.

One entry per person.

24

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

25

Food & Drink

Ingredients

Eggnog Creamy and sweet; a Christmas cuddle in a glass!

In old American Christmas films, people always seemed to be drinking eggnog. It sounds cosy and Christmassy and very American, but in fact eggnog traces its roots back to a 14th century England drink called posset.

This was a drink of hot milk curdled with ale. Later in history eggs were added. Milk and eggs were expensive commodities in England and so the drink went out of fashion. When the American colonies were formed there was land a-plenty for chickens and cows and so it regained popularity over there.

The American plantations meant that rum was plentiful too and the drink became alcoholic and was enjoyed by the masses.

Preparation time: 20 minutes plus cooling and chilling time Serves 8 26

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

700ml whole milk (I’ve tried it with semi-skimmed and it works well too) 240ml double cream 3 cinnamon sticks 1 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds removed 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish 5 yolks, separated 130g granulated sugar 175ml Dark Rum or brandy Cinnamon sticks for garnish Method In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine milk, cream, cinnamon, vanilla bean, vanilla seeds, and nutmeg. Bring slowly to the boil. As soon as it boils remove from the heat and leave to cool so the flavours can infuse.

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick and ribbons form when the whisk is lifted. Strain the milk mixture then slowly whisk it into the egg and sugar mixture and continue to mix until everything is combined and smooth. Add the rum or brandy, and stir. Refrigerate overnight if serving chilled.

The argument rages over whether eggnog should be served chilled or warm. Personally I like it warm but chilled is good too.

Either way, serve and garnish with whipped cream if desired, grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

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27

d

ADVERTISING FEATURE

’tis the season to be jolly ... ... but be mindful!

Dr Emma Pemberthy BVM BVS MRCVS Small Animal Vet

December is full of excitement for the whole family, including our furry friends! There are plenty of tempting treats for our cheeky dogs and cats to get hold of so, to avoid any emergencies this festive season, be aware of some “treats” which should be kept away from your own or other pets in your home during family gatherings: Chocolate. Whilst we are able to enjoy plentiful amounts with very few side effects, dogs are not so lucky. Chocolate contains theobromine which is toxic for dogs. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the worst, but even milk chocolate can be dangerous if enough of it is consumed. Avoid the lower branches if hanging chocolate decorations on your tree.

Grapes and raisins. These can affect the kidneys of some dogs and cause permanent damage just 24 -72 hours after consumption. Exactly what the toxin is, we still don’t know for sure.

Cats may also be susceptible, so best to keep pets away from the Christmas cake and mince pies to be safe!

Sweeteners. If you are adding sweeteners to the post-dinner teas/coffees or home-baking with xylitol-containing products, be aware that xylitol is toxic to dogs and can cause liver damage and massive insulin release leading to severe low blood sugar level. Some chewing gum contains xylitol too.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

Macadamia nuts and peanuts. These may cause gastrointestinal upset and even neurological signs (being wobbly/shaking) in some pets so make sure the pre-lunch snacks are well out of reach!

Onions, garlic, shallots. These are all toxic, even after cooking, and cause damage to the red blood cells in our pets causing an anaemia so are definitely best avoided. Ensure leftovers are well out of reach after your Christmas feast.

Plants. Mistletoe, poinsettia, holly and ivy all have the potential to make our pets feel a bit ill! Mistletoe, holly and ivy can all cause retching, salivation and potentially vomiting though are rarely more serious, except in bunnies. Rabbits are highly sensitive to ivy and it may prove fatal if eaten. Poinsettia is often mistakenly believed to be very toxic to cats, though it may make them feel quite sick.

Although the things we worry about most are usually what foodstuffs our pets may sneakily snaffle while our backs are turned, there are other ingestible items to be aware of at this time of year including wrapping paper, candles and the packaging from gifts. Consider also that while some pets may love all the excitement, other pets prefer a quieter life, so having somewhere they can retreat for peace and quiet is important – placing treats and toys in their safe place means they can also enjoy the holidays and join you when they feel ready.

We are always available for our clients 24 hours a day should you have any emergencies this season and are at the end of the phone should you need some peace of mind or advice. I wish you and your pets a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2016!

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

29

Gardening

Which Christmas tree?

by Rachel Leverton

W

HEN we were kids my brother christened our rather sorry old artificial tree the Silver Lurch, on account of its colour and list.

Artificial trees have improved enormously since then but most gardeners do prefer the real thing.

There’s something magical about bringing a bit of the outside indoors at this time of year. Unfortunately trees were not meant to live in centrally-heated sitting rooms. It puts them under a lot of stress. So which trees survive Christmas best?

Well there are several species available to the British public. The main choices are between pines, spruces and firs.

The traditional Christmas tree is Picea Abies, the Norway Spruce.

Most popular they may be but they are actually least suited to the conditions inside the average home.

Spruces are much more prone to shed needles than firs or pines.

30

Pinus Sylvestris and Pinus Contorta are respectively better known as the Scots Pine and the Lodgepole Pine.

Their longer needles hold well but do make hanging decorations a bit tricky for small fingers, which is worth noting if your children like to help. If that’s not an issue the widely spaced branches show off larger baubles very well. The Corsican Pine (pinus Nigra Laricio) is not as common but has similar properties.

The Nordman Fir (Abies Nordmanniana) runs the Noble Fir a close second. It is easily available now as many tree growers invested heavily in the species. They are generally cheaper than the Noble Fir so a good choice if cost is an issue. The Fraser Fir and the lemon-scented Douglas Fir are also worth seeking out.

Firs are the best choice for a British Christmas. If you want the best, and you can find one, plump for Abies Noblilis, the Noble Fir. In its perfect form it’s hard to beat: uniform in shape with more open branches on the top, its flat, short needles have amazing retention properties.

It’s trickier to grow well than most other trees so expect to pay a bit of a premium.

Once you have your tree, make a fresh cut across its trunk and give it a good drink of tepid water before bringing it inside. Secure it properly in a specially made base which is the right size for your tree! A toppled six foot tree, a couple of gallons of water and a hundred or so baubles make a seriously large mess...I know this to be true because several

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

ECO-FRIENDLY? • For true eco-friendliness buy British-grown trees.

• Most councils offer a Christmas tree shredding service. The shreddings are then composted.

• Artificial trees are generally non-biodegradable.

• Christmas tree farms act as a carbon sink, fixing environmental carbon dioxide Christmases ago I was the person clearing it all up at 2 in the morning...don’t make my mistake!

Merry Christmas!

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31

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Is your website ready for 2016?

W

ITH THE NEW YEAR NEARLY UPON US, now is the perfect time for a quick review of your website. It doesn’t take long to check that it’s still serving the needs of your business and that it’s ready for whatever 2016 might bring. Here are my top five health-checks to keep your website in tip-top shape: Add a news item or blog post Recent activity on a website creates a good impression for new visitors. If your website hasn’t been updated in ages, they may feel that your business isn’t successful, active, or cared about. They may even wonder if you’re still trading! An easy way to remedy this is to add a blog post or a news article.

As these usually carry a date on them it’s the perfect visual indicator that you’re still around - even if what you post doesn’t get read. If you don’t have a blog on your site, you could add a ‘Happy New Year’ message to your home page, or offer a discount for the first 20 customers in 2016 (just remember to take it off again!)

Change the copyright date Many websites have a copyright date in the footer.

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Re-read your content Content goes out of date too. But even if nothing’s recently changed in your business, take the opportunity to read through your content. Looking at it after a break of a few months or years often gives a fresh perspective. Are your pages well-written and free from typos? Is the information adequate? What impression does your content give to a potential customer? And of course, if there have been changes to the business, your website should reflect these. If you have too many pages to trawl through all at once, make a start with the most frequently visited pages.

Remember that regularly updated websites achieve better rankings from search engines - another good reason to keep things fresh.

Check your images Website images influence a visitor’s first impressions.

Potential customers quickly decide if a web page is relevant to their needs, and images are a key part of that assessment. So have a quick check that your chosen images actually reflect the subject of the page!

Also, now might be the time to begin replacing any stock photos with your own. Many businesses launch their website with generic images, intending to replace them later on. Using good-quality images of your own will make your site less corporate and more individual.

Get in touch with me today:

So before you get to your New Year health resolutions, why not check your website’s health today? The suggestions above shouldn’t take an age, and they could be great for your customer experience, your search rankings, and your business!

Kevin Sanders – Based in Royal Wootton Bassett

Happy New Year!

• MAINTENANCE • HOSTING

07526 159 596 – www.ks-webdesigner.com 32

Update any policies, terms and conditions and advice Many professional sites show some or all of these.

Take a look through your documents or articles and make sure the information is still current. For example, changes to legislation and industry standards often catch website owners out.

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

Kevin Sanders www.ks-webdesigner.com

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You can call us on 0800 130 3131 at any time if you have any questions. All speeds quoted are maximum speeds achievable and actual speeds experienced will depend upon individual customer usage habits and the Fair Access Policy. *Based on using software such as Skype or FaceTime.

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

33

d

Books

A Good Christmas Read How the Grinch Stole Christmas

illustrated detailed letters from Father Christmas; letters populated by a cast of characters which included elves, goblins and a clumsy polar bear.

by Dr. Seuss

Through these letters, Tolkien entertained his children with stories of high-jinks at the North Pole. It’s true the language can seem a little formal and stilted at times by today’s standards, but they were written in the 1920s and 30s and Tolkien is as much a product of his time as any author.

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

Long before Jim Carrey took the character to the big screen, this book had captured the hearts of generations of children. It’s a marvellous story of seasonal redemption in the best tradition.

It’s every bit as timeless as Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

His affection for his children shines through every page regardless. As they were written for real children the reader receives an insight into what the interests of the Tolkien children might have been: prehistoric cave paintings, fireworks, the night sky and animals to name a few.

The lonely Grinch hates Christmas; the noise, the feasting, the singing. His loathing of the festivities is focussed on the merry little Whos, who really know how to throw a Christmas party. He decides that this year he will put a stop to the proceedings and sets about wrecking their big day. Will he succeed? Well it’s no secret to say that happily his plans are thwarted in the nicest way possible, as he discovers that the most important thing about Christmas is love, friendship and sense of belonging to a community.

All the letters are lavishly illustrated with fantastical intricate pictures, and these bring the stories to life.

Even non-Tolkien fans should love this charming book. It’s wonderful for reading alone in front of a roaring fire with a cup of hot chocolate, or for sharing with your own children. Perfect seasonal fare.

Reviews by Sarah Davey

Crossword & Sudoku solution page 20

This is Seuss at his best; a riotous rhyming adventure and an adorably grumpy anti-hero.

Letters from Father Christmas

by J.R.R Tolkien

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

Mention Tolkien and you will undoubtedly think of his epic adventures - The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. But as father to four children Tolkien had a softer more whimsical side.

Each December over the course of their childhood he wrote and 34

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

AGR AGR Agricultural Agricultural Contracting Contracting

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Gift vouchers are available for Christmas to any denomination, and come with a personalised voucher

Gift Voucher www.barnescoaches.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015

35

V FO EH R ICL SA ES LE

VEHICLE SALES • SERVICING • REPAIRS • MOT • HIRE VEHICLES

New Sales Manager joins Crudwell Garage Crudwell Garage have been selling high quality used vehicles for many years. Today you will find a selection of great used vehicles available.

Autumn has seen the arrival of John Dunn our New Sales Manager who you may know from his time at Athelstan Garage and Olympic Cars.

• SERVICING • REPAIRS NEAR RY, • MOTS MALMESBU • EXHAUSTS TETBURY & • BATTERIES ER CIRENCEST • TYRES • CAR AND VAN HIRE • VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS • AIRCON RE-GAS, SERVICING AND REPAIR • POWER STEERING SERVICING • ENGINE INDUCTION SYSTEM SPECIALIST CLEANING We are conveniently placed on the main road – A429 in Crudwell, just outside Malmesbury and within easy reach of Tetbury, Charlton, Oaksey, Hankerton, Minety and surrounding villages on the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire borders.

OPENING HOURS Mon – Fri: 8:30am – 5:30pm Saturday: Sales by appointment Sunday : Sales by appointment

At Crudwell Garage we aim to stock a varied range of vehicles to suit all tastes and budgets from small cars and vans to larger cars, vans and wheel chair accessible vehicles. All our vehicles are appraised to a high standard and come with our own Crudwell Garage Warranty for your piece of mind.

We have full finance facilities on site to assist you with funding your next vehicle if required.

Come along to the forecourt at Crudwell and meet John and browse the vehicles we have for sale seven days a week.

During weekends please call and make an appointment so we can ensure you get our full attention.

Crudwell Garage Ltd, Crudwell, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9EU Tel: (01666) 577242 www.crudwellgarageltd.co.uk 36

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2015