Town Crier Magazine September 2020

TownCr er SEPTEMBER 2020

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SECOND HAND NOT SECOND BEST

DAZZLING DAHLIAS

GOING FOR GOLD

Put Y our Feet Up & Enjoy a Good Read! www.towncriermagazine.com

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SEPTEMBER 2020 CONTENTS

H

ello September!!

In this crazy world we find ourselves at the moment, the year seems to have still flown by and already Autumn is just around the corner!

We have to be thankful that we have had some great weather. If we had been in lockdown during a wet and cold period it would have been unthinkable especially for a lot of people that were having to shield. As it is we still don't know if there will be another wave during the cold season so we all have to do our bit and be sensible.

Something I have noticed during this pandemic is how much more friendly people seem to be. The help and support from complete strangers has been second to none and we must be proud to be part of this community. Although It still beggars belief how some people are still blasé about the virus and are not taking it seriously.

I hope you have been able to take advantage of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme which has been a real advantage. There seems to have been a huge uptake in cooking and home-baking. I know I have certainly made more bread in the last few

FOOD Tarte Tatin - Delicious 14 Recipe: And Comforting Pudding

LOCAL NEWS Council 4 Trowbridge Concerned About Ecology

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FEATURES

An n i e X

HOME & GARDEN Hand Not Second 24 Second Best - Express Yourself

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Garden Views - Dazzling Dahlias In Bloom

Spectacular Sunsets And How To Capture Them

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Take Better Photos - Make Them The Best They Can Be!

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Everything Can Change - Work And A Love Of Motorbikes

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Going For Gold - Remodelling Sentimental Jewellery

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Book Review - Some Of Our Favoutire Reads!

Est: 21 yrs

See you in our October edition.

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Editor: Annie Harling contact@towncriermagazine.com Sales: Clair Gallie clair.gallie@towncriermagazine.com Artwork: Sam Lapham contact@towncriermagazine.com Photography: Paul Stallard Accounts: Victoria Lovell accounts@towncriermagazine.com

So happy baking, happy reading – whatever you do – be kind to yourself and those around you.

Recipe: How To Make Your Own Yogurt. Yum!

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months than ever before.

As usual we have included some excellent recipes in this months issue, don't forget you can access our back copies on line in case you have missed some.

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and the team!

HEALTH & BEAUTY 10

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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. Deadline for submissions for the October 2020 issue: 10th September 2020.

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Carer Support Wiltshire Awarded £15,000 to continue Telephone Support Service A successful telephone support service that has been helping unpaid carers in Wiltshire while they shield with loved ones has received funding of almost £15,000 for it to be extended for another four months.

Carer Support Wiltshire’s ‘Talk and Support’ service was launched soon after the start of the lockdown with the aim of checking in on and supporting some of the county’s most vulnerable carers, many of which are caring for someone with a long term illness who is shielding.

Around 180 carers are currently receiving regular phone calls from a team of 35 volunteer befrienders who have been trained by Carer Support Wiltshire especially for this role.

Julie Weymouth and her husband Paul

Julie Weymouth, Bradford-on-Avon, has cared for her husband Paul since his stroke in 2013.

She said: “Our lives changed with blue lights and sirens to Bath RUH. The doctor told me he has had a stroke. I replied: ‘But he can’t have, he was working in the attic yesterday’. After ten weeks in hospital, Paul was sent home now classed as disabled. The right side of his body was paralyzed and, seven years later, he is still unable to speak two words in a row.

“I have felt very alone and lockdown has not been easy. One day the phone rang and it was Sam. She saved my sanity then and helped me with a problem that I had been worrying about. Her phone call was perfect timing.”

The funding was awarded by Carers Trust and the money will be used to offer further training to volunteers and to facilitate more befriending video calls for carers.

Mark Andrews, Trust Fundraising Officer for Carer Support Wiltshire said: “The Talk and Support service has been identifying the most high-risk unpaid carers – such as the elderly or those without internet – and checking in with them by phone. Some have been coping absolutely fine but have appreciated being called to see how they are.”

If you are a carer in need of support, Carer Support Wiltshire can help in many ways.

Please call 0800 118 4118 or visit www.carersupportwiltshire.co.uk

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TRAVEL

My Bucket List has a hole in it !

by Carol Price, Pebbles Travel On location in either my conservatory or garden!

Well my friends this was going to be my next blog to you all on my ultimate bucket list holiday to Brazil in March 2020! Everything was ready, cases almost packed, clothes scattered all over the spare room, will take that one, that one a maybe and yes I do need those as a spare!! My husband only needs the bottom half of one case plenty of room!!

I am sure many of you were preparing in the very same way however…

The one thing none of us saw coming was the forthcoming “hole in our buckets “. My case is still in the spare room as ever the optimist I cannot bear to put it back in the loft!

We were due to fly to Brazil for a private touring holiday on the 19th March. Our holiday was to end in Rio de Janeiro for my very special birthday cannot say the number but sadly has a 7 at the beginning! Yes, I am the oldest member by far at Pebbles Travel and no I am not their mum!!

Like most of you our world has turned upside down and for some it will never be the same again. New words are entering the dictionary Furlough, Self- distancing, lockdown, self -isolating being just a few. We suddenly went from last minute holiday checks, taxi, tickets, holiday money to… can I claim on my travel insurance? will I lose all of my money? Where is my Travel Agent when I need her?? Pause for breath she is here looking at me in the mirror!!

I am with you all as am sitting on both sides of our empty bucket. The disappointed traveller/client with many questions and reliable Travel agent ready to act quickly and try and see if we can “plug “the hole in our buckets !!

I have spent many early mornings shouting at a certain man on Breakfast TV who keeps telling us what we are entitled too and what we should do!!!

The early days of Borders closing, the virus unseen, unknown the Travel industry like many 6

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other businesses was in its own turmoil. Airlines cancelling flights, Cruises unable to sail, hotels closing, and travellers left with so many questions which it seemed no one could answer quick enough.

We all probably felt the same that it seemed almost shallow to be talking of holiday plans, holidays lost, and dreams shattered when the NHS was at breaking point and so many lives at risk.

Those of us that had not actually travelled were actually the lucky ones when we look back. Clients and holiday makers were stranded all over the Globe. Some in far flung places and remote islands that would take the following weeks to repatriate them home.

I am pleased to report all of our “Pebbles” clients are safe and well. A few taking a journey home that was a challenge, but they are home!

What of our lost holidays, our money and our unanswered questions?

Like all industries money moves along the chain and the Travel Industry is no different from Client to Travel agent to Airlines, Tour Operators and Hotels.

This virus has affected the Globe!! If it was one country one airline and a few hotels, easily sorted maybe? but it is not. Multiple airlines, Multiple Cruise Lines and Hotels are involved so it will take time to find the right “Plug” to fill our buckets.

This might mean a credit note to use next year to the value of our holidays. A deposit transfer to a future holiday or a refund if at all possible. We all must be patient our money is safe and protected. Slowly and surely, we will have a bucket we can use.

Over the past few weeks, we have had to adjust to our new normal. A different way of working maybe? Not seeing our families and friends, Zoom?? a complete triumph for me. I have brushed up on crosswords, Online Quizzes and every Virtual Travel Programme going. If you need a Travel expert for your quiz night I might be available !!

When I realised our holiday was cancelled I ordered a giant Wall art and re-created it in my conservatory with Blue Tack and plenty of imagination !! all ready for my big day … well why not !! If the girl cannot go to Rio, then Rio must come to the girl!!

Stay safe, stay well, we are here when you’re ready to travel, as the world slowly starts to re-open it’s doors. We look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

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Come and Explore ST MARGARET’S PREP SCHOOL St Margaret’s is a thriving independent day school for boys and girls, sharing a site with St Mary’s, Calne. Entry is from 3 years when children join Kindergarten and children move to senior school at the end of Year 6 when they are aged 11.

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Teaching throughout the school is tailored to meet the needs of the individual child.

Children are encouraged to reflect and evaluate their own learning and with support identify their next steps. Specialist teachers offer a wide range of experiences and as a result, our teaching delivers truly personalised learning for each child. An extensive range of technology enhances learning across the curriculum.

Of course you want your child to be happy, alongside giving them the best possible start in life. They will join a school with real spirit and energy, which lives each day to the full.

We purposefully pack excitement and learning experiences into every moment.

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9

itness has been a big part of my life since my mid twenties, when my own life-changing experience with exercise convinced me to change my career.

In my various fitness roles over the last 23 years, I have been committed to passing my enthusiasm on to others: be these club members, clients or colleagues.

I set up Dylan Worthington Personal Training in 2016 as, having worked in large health clubs for much of my career, I was frustrated by seeing so many people join up with good intentions, only to lose motivation quickly and never realise their full fitness potential.

I wanted to change lives, and could see that the ‘big gym’ experience wasn’t right for everybody.

I knew that, with the right level of support and encouragement, a positive environment, and some self-belief, anyone could turn their life around for the better through a programme of physical activity and good nutrition.

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Now in our 4th year, we’ve helped clients of all ages from across Wiltshire - with a particular interest in helping those over 50. Growing from a single trainer to a team of six, comprising fitness professionals, a clinical nutritionist, and sports therapist, we have built a reputation for excellent customer service, and a no-nonsense approach to exercise prescription.

This September, we are excited to be launching our new brand - ‘Studio-10’, and a Boutique Gym, so we can offer clients an even better training experience. You can find out more by visiting our website: www. dylanworthington.com Yours in health and fitness, Dylan Worthington

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My Walk of Life Marathon Hospital charity’s popular fundraising walk goes virtual The hospital charity The Forever Friends Appeal is calling on supporters to sign up and take part in its virtual walking event, called My Walk of Life Marathon. It takes place throughout September and aims to raise much-needed funds for the Royal United Hospitals Bath.

Lily Reid and George Logut getting ready to walk

Like many organisations the charity has postponed and moved some of its events online because of the timing of the pandemic, social distancing and the strict restrictions on mass gatherings. Therefore this virtual event replaces the charity’s annual Walk of Life flagship fundraiser, which couldn’t be staged this year.

Friendship and Exercise Group For Seniors

Laura Pearce, Events & Community Manager said: “We have missed seeing our supporters take to the canal path this year but we hope by changing our physical walk to a virtual event instead, everyone taking part will feel connected, even though we can’t be together.

We aim to improve your strength, balance, posture, flexibility in a fun and friendly environment

Come and join us for a weekly dose of exercise @ St. Pauls Church, Chippenham Monday 10:00-11:00

Followed by a chat over Tea and Biscuits and a fun game Price: £5.00 including refreshments To register your interest please contact: Adam Dyer - 07875503586 | adamdyer412010@googlemail.com

“It’s completely up to you how you decide to complete the 26.2 mile challenge, it’s your walk, and you can do it your way over 30 days. Take this opportunity to get out and discover the great outdoors or tot up your miles in your own home or garden – just ensure you comply with the social distancing rules.

“This event is interactive as when you sign up you create your fundraising page and set your target.

You will then be able to share your page with friends, family and colleagues and see the other participants’ progress. You can also log your miles or track them by linking to Strava.

“By taking part in this challenge you will be helping us provide the rapid funding needed to support our staff, patients and their families. If you cherish our NHS you can make a difference locally by signing up and taking part in My Walk of Life Marathon.”

If you would like to make your step count for RUH staff and patients, sign up to the My Walk of Life Marathon today. Registration is free and if you raise £100 by 30 September you will receive a medal. For more information visit: www.mywalkoflifemarathon.co.uk www.towncriermagazine.com

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I think of tarte tatin as grown-up toffee apples, and like the pizzas last month it’s another recipe that can be cooked in a cast-iron pan.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes, plus cooling time, plus 30 minutes in the oven.

Serves: 6 Ingredients: 7-9 medium apples: Cox are my favourite for this, but other varieties work well.

200g white sugar 50g butter 225g plain flour 2 tbsp caster sugar 120g cold diced butter 1 medium egg, beaten

Method: Peel, halve and core the apples, then place in the fridge, uncovered, for a few hours or overnight. It doesn’t matter if they turn a little brown, the idea is for them to dry out a little, so there’s less juice and less chance of soggy pastry.

Place the sugar into a 20-24cmcast iron frying pan along with 50ml water and let the sugar soak up the water. Cook over a medium heat until it turns golden and fudgy. Try not to stir the sugar until it’s mostly liquid as it might recrystalise. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter, and a pinch of salt.

Carefully arrange the apples in the pan, round-side down. Be careful as the caramel stays hot for a long time! Place it back on the heat and cook gently for 5 minutes. Then remove and allow to cool completely.

Sieve the flour into a large mixing bowl, add the diced butter and rub together until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and a pinch of salt. Add the beaten egg and combine into a dough. Add a little water if required but keep the dough fairly dry. Wrap it in clingfilm and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

TarteTatin 14

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Pre-heat the oven to 200C / Gas. Roll out the pastry to about 5mm / ¼ inch thick and cut out a circle slightly larger than your pan.

Place the pastry on top of the pan and tuck the edges around the fruit. If your pan has a detachable wooden handle, now is the time to detach it!

Serve warm crème fraiche, natural yoghurt, or vanilla ice cream.

Bake for about 30 minutes until the pastry is golden, then remove from the oven. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then place a plate which should be slightly larger than the pan, on top and carefully invert the tart on to the plate.

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Make Your Own

YOGURT YOU WILL NEED:

A Thermos flask that holds 1 pint.

450-500ml of milk. Whole milk gives the creamiest results, but semiskimmed also works well.

4-5 tbsp live yoghurt room temp) Optional - 25g milk powder. Some methods said this made the yoghurt thicker and creamier. I found that it gave the yoghurt a slightly grainy texture.

A kitchen thermometer is helpful but not necessary.

METHOD: Sterilise the flask by filling it with boiling water. I empty it and pop the lid on to keep it warm.

Thermometer method - Heat the milk to 82-86C in a pan (to sterilise). Stay with the milk, it boils quickly! Remove the pan from the heat and allow to cool to 46C.

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Then whisk the room-temperature yoghurt through and add the milk powder if using.

No thermometer method - Heat the milk until a ring of bubbles forms around the edge of the pan. This means the milk has reached scalding point between 82 and 86C. Allow to cool for at least fifteen minutes. Then (with clean hands) dip your little finger into the centre of the milk up to the first knuckle. When you can comfortably hold it there for five seconds the good bacteria will be comfortable too (somewhere around 46C).

Whichever method you use, pour the resulting mixture into the warmed, sterilised thermos flask. Seal and leave for 12 hours.

I usually leave overnight. In the morning you should have yoghurt!

Decant into clean glass jars and enjoy.

You can use a few tablespoons of this yoghurt to make your next batch. It’s the food that keeps on giving.

Loubieh hamra

Ingredients: 600g Runner beans, cut into 2 to 3 cm pieces 150g onion diced about 1cm.

1 can chopped tomatoes 2 Tbsp tomato puree 2 Tbsp sunflower or rapeseed oil 1 Tbsp pomegranate molasses or the juice of half a lemon.

Method: Add the cut runner beans and the diced onion to a deep saucepan, add 100ml water, bring to the boil than turn the heat down to medium and cook for about 15 minutes or until the runner beans are cooked, stirring a few times.

Add the content of the tomato can to the saucepan. If there is bit of water left in the saucepan, drain into the can and use it to dilute the tomato puree then return it to the saucepan.

Allow to cook for further 15 minutes.

Add pepper ( I use Lebanese 7 spices), salt, oil, pomegranate molasses and cook for further 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to your liking.

Enjoy warm or cold with fresh bread or green salad.

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BETWEEN TWO HOMES

by Wafaa Powell, Dancing Flavours

At a time when my country, Lebanon, just experienced a disaster caused by the carelessness of a corrupt system, I despair.

Lebanon is and will always be my home.

I lived there till I was 35. So the imprint of the Lebanese culture is in my blood and upbringing. There is something about nostalgia that makes us see home with beautifully tinted glasses.

I was always aware of what served my country and what didn’t. The family values, warmth, generosity and hospitality of the people are second to none. And although everyone has a business in everybody else’s life, when it comes to support no one beats Lebanese people.

England is my home too. I have been living in Wiltshire for 20 years. I loved it from the first day I arrived. I love and appreciate living here and I can honestly say I learnt a lot and grew as a person.

Belonging to two places I call home is life enriching but tough especially at time like the present. I feel anger for the suffering of my family, friends and the Lebanese people in general. Also I feel helpless but I keep in touch and try to support when possible.

Spreading the love through food brings my two homes together.

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& how to capture them Autumn is the best time of year for beautiful sunsets. Have you ever tried to capture one and been disappointed with the result? Sunsets can be devilishly tricky to capture well, but we have a few tips.

Choose the time and place – If you're serious about sunsets make a note of places where they are particularly good then head there before the sunset to give you time to set your camera up. There are websites which tell you what time the sun will set on a particular day.

Try www.timeanddate.com/sun/ Foreground is important – The best sunset photos tend to have something of interest in the foreground, generally silhouetted. This provides a focal point. Look for an attractive tree, or a wind farm, and even pylons can look impressive in front of a sunset.

Patience is also important – Sunset actually goes on for quite a long time. As the sun dips beneath the horizon it can produce 18

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By Louise Addison

some spectacular shots, but afterwards, the colours of the sky can become even more rich and beautiful, so hang around.

So is a tripod! The best shots are often longer exposures, so they will look shaky unless you secure your camera to a tripod.

Ignore ‘the rule of thirds’ – The sunset is the star so place your horizon really low down in the shot. This fills the image with colour.

Remember reflections - If you are near water take full advantage of doubling the impact of your sunset. In this instance try placing the horizon at exactly halfway or shoot only the reflections. Experiment and have fun.

Use Natural Light if possible - If you have the option to take a picture outdoors do it.

If you are indoors, pick big windows, bright rooms or rooms with good lighting for your shots.

eing stuck at home with your family gives you plenty of time to photograph them. Here’s how to make sure your quarantine photos are the best they can be.

Frame your subject properly - Don’t cut off half their head, or if the whole person is in the frame, don’t chop off their feet!

Train yourself to check for distractions, like a lampshade that seems to grow out of someone’s head, or a sink-full of washing-up nearby…unless you’re going for social realism, in which case go for it.

Time of day - The best times for a great photo are usually at early mornings (dawn) or twilight (dusk) as the light then is warm and golden. Another good time to snap a picture is after a rain shower, the colours and contrast on wet damp objects can be very striking.

By Tom Hancock

Focus - Take time to focus on your subject before you take the picture. If you are photographing a person, focus on their eyes.

Be steady - The secret to a crisp, sharp photo is steady hands. Hold the camera or phone firmly and press the shutter button gently, don’t jerk, pull away or move for a second or two after you’ve pressed the button.

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19

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Pets play a vital role at home Britain’s pets have become crucial colleagues for their owners as they work from home by boosting morale and motivation and reducing stress and anxiety, research has revealed.

Cats and dogs might spend their day snoring on the sofa, asking for walks and demanding treats while not offering to do a drink round of their own, but they have played a vital role in maintaining productivity and morale.

As part of a new campaign celebrating rescue pets, a study by leading animal charity Battersea has shown how Brits have relied on their cats and dogs while working from home.

• Almost four in 10 of the 2,000 cat and dog owners surveyed said that having a pet with them during lockdown had helped them maintain a regular routine.

• More than half (58 per cent) said that having a pet with them while they work during lockdown has helped boost their productivity and motivation.

The research also revealed how cats and dogs have helped their owners get an issue off their chest - with one in 10 moaning about a colleague to their furry friend. Another 12 per cent have complained about their workload and 13 per cent just enjoy having a natter about their work life in general.

However, the lure of a cuddly companion can be too much to resist for some - with 66 per cent admitting they have taken cheeky breaks to spend some time playing with their cat or dog when they should be working.

Meanwhile, 17 per cent said they had a pet join them on a video call - and 10 per cent found their

• And 60 per cent said it has helped them out of bed in the morning.

• One fifth (20 per cent) have shared lunch with their dog while 43 per cent say their pet has helped reduce their anxiety.

MALMESBURY 01666 823165 • When requesting an appointment we PLEASE WEAR A FACE COVERING WHEN VISITING OUR CLINICS

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We can all help each other during these challenging times 22

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cat asleep on their desk or keyboard. And 29 per cent say they have been distracted by their pet while working.

The research, carried out via OnePoll, coincides with Battersea’s new advertising campaign, which highlights the key role that rescue dogs and cats have played across the UK during quarantine.

Ali Taylor, Head of Canine Behaviour at Battersea, said: "We know there's evidence that owning a pet is good for mental health and tackling stress - and this is clearly really important at such a challenging time. OIL & GAS APPLIANCES.

Ser vices

M

Max Colbourne

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PLUMBING “We've heard so many amazing stories about how Battersea dogs catsSYSTEMS are now BATHROOMS . Uand NVENTED . rescuing their owners - helping them feel less No Job too small overwhelmed, distracting them from the news Attention to detail guaranteed agenda and providing much-needed cuddles.”

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Battersea helped more than 5,000 animals across its three centres last year, as well as using its Tel: 07815 836953 expertise, influence, and voice to help thousands email: maxcolbourne@me.com more all over the country and across the world.

However, like all charities, Battersea is facing a significant drop in income as a direct impact of coronavirus and is reliant on the generosity of the public to continue to fund its vital work helping dogs and cats and the people-who care for -them.

Fridges - Freezers - Cookers Microwaves Dryers

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The charity is appealing for support to enable it to continue to help ‘wonderful, imperfect, worthit’ rescue dogs and cats.

EPAIRS - SERVICINGor-to INSTALLATION ForRmore information donate, visit - SALES www.battersea.org or join the growing community of rescue lovers by using #RescueIsMyFavouriteBreed.

Watch Battersea's 'Rescues to the Rescue' video at https://www.youtube.com/ Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk watch?v=P4u1KRJPG38

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Three quarters (75 per cent) say their rescue pet has helped ‘rescue them’ during lockdown. More than half revealed they have become better connected with their pets and now understand their personality better. And 77 per cent of dog owners say walking their dog has been the highlight of their day during lockdown.

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There has never been a better time to buy second hand for your home. During lockdown lots of people indulged in some major decluttering and many lovely items have ended up on eBay, Facebook, and similar sites, not to mention charity shops and vintage stores.

Leather club chairs will always be a good purchase. Look for original leather or one recovered with vintage leather. Distressed leather is lovely and adds character but avoid chairs with a lot of peeling or cracking, and (unless it is for decorative purposes only) check the support it offers!

Nowadays we can buy anything we like new online or in department stores. So why purchase anything second-hand? Well, the problem with everyone shopping in the same stores is that everyone’s home begins to look a bit like identikit furnishing or ‘home-design-by-numbers’. Then there’s the issue of landfill. Buying second-hand means you’re not contributing to a ‘wasteful’ society. Finally, second-hand means you get to choose something different, quirky, and unique to you.

Take paintings. It’s easy to pop into IKEA and buy a nice printed canvas but buying an original vintage oil painting is significantly more worth it. Most people think ‘Rembrandt’ or ‘Monet’ if you mention oil paintings but there are many lovely affordable original works of art or vintage prints on offer, and who knows, you might even happen upon an undiscovered old master!

Antiques rugs are another good purchase and can set the tone of an entire space.

Look in antique markets for Oushaks and Serapis style rugs. They use higher-quality wool, have a softer texture and blend with modern or antique furniture. They also tend to appreciate in value with age. Look for quality craftmanship, no sun damage, and no smoke and pet odours. An older rug should be worn evenly.

24

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I break plates and cups with alarming regularity. So much so that I gave up on matching dinner services many years ago.

Instead I buy pretty individual vintage pieces I like. The mix ‘n’ match look is eclectic but works for me and my family. Vintage doesn’t necessarily mean expensive, but if you are more careful than I am go for it. Look for patina, shape, and design to indicate whether an article is genuine.

Mirrors are some of the best items to buy vintage or antique. There are a wide range of styles in good condition that can add a touch of history or character to a room. says Brown. An original mirror edged with silver or gold, even if it is distressed, is it’s so much more interesting than anything bought new. Old mirrors may have distortions or bubbles in the glass so are best placed where ‘decorative’ or ‘increasing light and space’ is more important than ‘functional mirror’!

Buying second hand can be fun, let you express your individual personality, save money and the planet.

What could be better?

By Tracey Anderson

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25

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HOME INSPIRATIONS BE INSPIRED Every Home Inspirations kitchen, bathroom and bedroom is designed and built specifically for each individual client’s needs. Browse our beautifully designed collections for initial inspiration and see how each design has been tailored to the lifestyle and personal tastes of the client. The end result is always an exquisite space that is truly beautiful.

WHY CHOOSE US? Our close-knit team comprises talented kitchen, bathroom and bedroom designers, specialist installers and skilled tradespeople.

From concept to completion, our process is totally unique, and sets us apart from the crowd – many try to copy us, but few succeed! We offer a Free Home Design Visit as part of our core service, in which we measure up, find out about your lifestyle, your likes and dislikes and get an idea of how your space could work. We aim to add real value to your home and life by using this information to build a picture of your personality – so that we can style your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom to fit around you. Rated outstanding by Which?

SHOWROOM We are proud to showcase a collection of stunning new kitchens, bathrooms and bedroom furniture along with worktops, replacement doors and fittings to offer something new for all tastes. With 20 years’ experience in design and installation of kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, at Home Inspirations, we can design, renovate or install bespoke new kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms or home offices to your requirements and always to the highest of standards. www.homeinspirationsltd.co.uk

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WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • ROOFLINE Why choose us?

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Why Should You advertise your business in Your Local Town Crier Magazine?

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Everything can change Local funeral director Odette Drummond has combined two of her passions in life – her work and her love of motorbikes. asked her daughters advice, who had passed her car test a year before. Odette says, ‘I had to ask an 18 year old how to do it. In the hazard part, I was seeing the hazard long before the computer would accept. I guess that happens when you have been driving a car for any length of time. I suspect that some people can relate to this.’

Odette’s other daughter Sara, who works in the family business was not so pleased. Odette says, Sara was worried and said to me, ‘Oh mum, you’ve gone to collisions with bikers involved, doesn’t this put you off?’

There is risk to everything we do. We can’t live our life and not LIVE our life. I think one thing COVID has taught us is: grab hold of life with both hands, go out and do those things you want to do. Never take anyone or anything for granted. After all, Odette of all people knows that everything can change in a heartbeat.

Back in 2017 Odette decided to take her motorbike test. Her husband has ridden bikes since he was 12 and encouraged Odette to take hers, so that they could enjoy a shared interest and enjoy motorbike holidays and days out together.

Odette is no stranger to bikes, she owned three between the age of 16 and 18.

She always wanted to do her bike test, but she kept putting it off due to family life and children. So, at the age of 48 she embarked on 3 days of training and took her Mod 1 on a Wednesday and on the Friday, MOD 2 and passed with flying colours.

Odette explains that the Theory stumped her, and she had to sit that 3 times! In the end she Above: Odette just after passing her test.

Below: Odette leading the motorcycle hearse.

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31

Tony Warren

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Want to live longer and independently in your own home?

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Local Calne firm 1st Choice Stairlifts have transformed over 5,000 people’s lives with a stairlift, and see what a difference having one can make. “I wish I had it sooner” is something they often hear, from people who have unnecessarily struggled for years, when the problem could easily and quickly have been resolved with one phone call.

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34

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Approved Which Trusted Traders for installation, service and repair

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2016

3

SAVE MONEY AND PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES Choose a Dignity Prepaid Funeral Plan

Plan ahead and enjoy real peace of mind Planning ahead for your funeral can give you real peace of mind, leaving one less thing for your family to worry about when the time comes.

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Local Expertise Jennifer Dip FAA, Dip FD and Sue have proudly served the needs of Calne for many years. We provide specialist support and guidance to local families, helping with their funeral arrangements to make sure every detail is exactly as they would want.

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Going for Gold

Remodelling sentimental jewellery.

Have you got some old gold jewellery, which has sentimental value but which you never wear?

It sits in your jewellery box, among the costume jewellery you wear all the time, and whenever you see it you feel a pang of guilt. Gold has always been seen as a good investment as it holds its value especially in uncertain economic times. This means that many of us have some random inheritance pieces in our jewellery box. It doesn’t feel right to sell it so what can you do?

Have you ever thought about creating new jewellery from old jewellery?

It might have been a thoughtful but misplaced gift, or inherited from an elderly relative with dubious taste, or it might be pretty but looks dated, and isn’t your style. Jewellery has one purpose…to adorn, and if you’re not wearing it, you’re preventing it from fulfilling that purpose. So why not use your old jewellery to create something you love to wear?

Find a jeweller – Do your research. Ask friends and family who they use.

If you see someone wearing a particularly beautiful piece, compliment them on it and ask if they had it made and by whom.

People who wear gorgeous jewellery usually know of a jeweller, even if their current piece was not purchased from them, and they love to share that information, because who doesn’t love to be complimented on their exquisite taste!

Design Meeting – The jeweller will set up a meeting to assess your heirloom jewellery.

They’ll look at the quality of the gold and any gems. The gems don’t have to be real.

Some quality paste gems are stunning in their own right and may just need a more modern setting to transform them. Some jewellery processes such as ‘casting’ are not suitable for paste gems or softer gems such as emeralds.

Sketching & Designs – Make sure you take in some pictures of jewellery that you love, or architecture you like, or pebbles and plants from the natural world. The jeweller will want to see what you like so they can bring your ideas and inspiration to life on paper. Be sure to be clear about your budget, you’ll feel much happier if you are. They usually send 3-5 sketches of their ideas and then you get to discuss them and decide on any revisions. Jewellers generally won’t copy someone else’s work exactly; they will want to create a piece for you.

Some jewellers work on their designs in pencil and ink, others on a 3D CAD system. Find a jeweller who works in a way you feel comfortable with.

Collection – At collection, the jeweller will take you through caring for your jewellery and advice on maintenance. Some offer an annual clean and service. Also ask about insurance value.

Then enjoy wearing your jewellery, full of memories, yet uniquely yours.

By Charlotte Taylor

36

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Telephone hotline receives almost 1,000 calls for support during Covid-19 Family-run company, The Virtual Business Centre, in Brinkworth, has supported the local community by taking almost 1,000 calls from people shielding or isolating during lockdown.

Co-founder Claire Brewerton offered to set up and man a hotline for the charity HEALS – free of charge, when the country went into lockdown during March. She said: “When we went into lockdown, I realised this was an effective way to give back to a very local charity which provides support to people in difficulty in our community.

Many families and residents have faced additional challenges at this time and the hotline was set up to help anyone who was isolating or shielding and who needed support.”

Malmesbury mayor Campbell Ritchie, has nothing but praise for Claire and her team.

He said: “The Virtual Business Centre has given tremendous support to its local community by offering and operating our Malmesbury Town Council and Heals Partnership COVID 19 emergency helpline. Dozens of calls a week have been received and seamlessly passed into our support network.”

Claire (47) co-founded her Wiltshire business in 1999 with her husband Marc Brewerton. For most of its life, the Virtual Business Centre was based in Brinkworth House but moved last year to a purpose-built unit at Malthouse Cottage Farm.

Claire and her team provide services including telephone answering, intelligent telemarketing, outsourced customer service department, live chat, marketing via text service and email inbox management. They offer cover seven days a week from 8am to 11pm at night, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm at weekends. To find out more visit: www.virtualbusinesscentre.com

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Rachael has a degree in Event's Management and a decade of experience in PA, Admin and Event Managing.

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The Town Crier Magazine | FEBRUARY 2019 www.towncriermagazine.com

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SICK PC or LAPTOP? PC Hospital Surgeons On Call RAPID RESPONSE UNITS – FAST REPAIRS – We come to you • Computers restored to health • Intensive Care for crashed PC’s • RIP … Resurrection in progress • Qualified Surgeons COMP TIA A+ • Life Longevity Programme (Health Checks) • Body part replacement (Upgrades + Full Systems) • From £29 fixed Price repair (Plus any Components) • No Fix – No fee

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The Town Crier Magazine | JULY 2015

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DuncanJoyce 73x90 AW.indd 1

27/04/2012 19:57

DAZZLING ver the past few years, I've fallen in love with dahlias for their ability to provide autumn colour. I think Dahlias are like the glamorous friend who arrives late to the party, fresh and full of life, outshining all the other guests who are a bit tired and past their best...or maybe that's just me being fanciful.

Either way the vibrant colours, tactile textures and stunning petal formations make the Dahlia queen of the September garden for me.

The dahlia originates from Mexico and there are 30 species and around 20,000 cultivars! Don't let its exotic past fool you; it hails from high mountain regions so is happy in cool, wet, and windy conditions. It doesn't matter what size your garden is there is a dahlia for you, from dwarf varieties to giants. There is even one variety (Imperialis) that can reach 6m (20 feet) in the wild in its native South America.

If your garden is on the exposed side, or you live in the north then look for the pompom varieties as the colourful globes are very hardy, standing up to the worst of the British weather.

Top tip: Dahlia bulbs are comprised of tubers. In order to sprout the tuber must have an ‘eye’. If you live in a very cold area, you can dig up the tubers at the end of the season and plant them out again the following year. My garden is quite sheltered, so I simply cut them down and mulch them. I learned the hard way that mulched dahlias survive and thrive much better than unmulched plants. Dahlia tubers are hungry beasts and don't take kindly to being undernourished.

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The first year I planted them I didn't mulch and the second year the flowers were sparse and undersized. On the advice of a neighbour I fed them, mulched them, and watered them through the hot season, and they returned in full vigour the following year.

Dahlias come in the most amazing array of colours. 'Lubega Power Yellow-Orange' sounds like a toilet cleaner but is in fact a gloriously tropical dwarf bedding dahlia

which produces masses of double flowers well into autumn if you deadhead it regularly. At 30cm you can plant it at the front of the border or in window boxes to brighten the dullest of days. Dahlia 'Cornel Brons' produces wonderful round coppercoloured architectural flowers.

They are long-lasting and make spectacular cut flowers. They look good in the middle of a border because they grow to 90cm.

For gardeners who prefer a more subtle or unusual colour palette: Dahlia 'Cafe aux Lait produces enormous exquisite blooms in a soft apricot-pink colour, which fade to vintage cream. It's the perfect dahlia for creating a focal point toward the back of the border as it grows to 120cm.

Dahlia 'Creme de Cassis' has stunning twotone petals on water lily-shaped flowers. It

grows to 90cm so is good for the middle of a border and also looks fabulous in a big pot.

By Rachael Leverton www.towncriermagazine.com

43

Tree Surgery Hedge Trimming Stump Grinding Fencing

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PATIOS | DECKING | FEN GARDEN WALLS | PONDS PDRIVEWAYS ATIOS | DECKING | FEN | BLOCK PAV GFREE ARDEN WALLS | P ONDS - Prompt Quote DRIVEWAYS | BLOCK PAV Call Michael on: FREE - Prompt Quote t: 01249 540128 m: 07737 001383 e: michael@acresahead.co.uk Call Michael on:

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PATIOS | DECKING | FENCING | GARDEN WALLS |PATIOS PONDS | | DECKING | FENCING Topsoil &GCompost Mix| PDRIVEWAYS ATIOS | DECKING | FENCIN | BLOCK PAVING GARDEN WALLS ||PONDS | ATIOS DECKING | FENCIN GFREE ARDEN WALLSQuote |PDRIVEWAYS PONDS | | BLOCK PAVINGG | Soil| Improver Compost - Prompt GFREE ARDEN WALLSQuote | PONDS | DRIVEWAYS | BLOCK -PAVING Prompt Call Michael on: DRIVEWAYS | BLOCK PAVING Call Michael on: IdealQuote for Landscaping & Gardening FREE - Prompt t: 01249 540128 m: 07737 001383 FREE - Prompt Quote t: 01249 540128 m: 07737 001383 e: michael@acresahead.co.uk Tel: 01793 854847 07515 062947 Call Michael on: Call e: michael@acresahead.co.uk Michael/on:

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There’s a choice of colours to enhance your garden’s design and you’ll find our prices surprisingly competitive too.

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The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2019

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enquiries@mardenroofing.co.uk The Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw, Melksham SN12 8EF

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White Horse Roofing specialises in: FOR FREE QUOTES • Traditional Roofing • Leadwork & Lead Burning • UPVC Fascias, Soffits & Guttering T: 01249 819128 M: 07788 885699 E: info@whitehorseroofing.com • EPDM Rubber Flat Roofs www.whitehorseroofing.com • Building Services 103 London Road, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0AD • Timberwork Prior and Marden joint advert.indd 1

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email: info@decorgaragedoors.co.uk 26/01/2015 14:03

The Clockmaker’s Daughter

by Kate Moreton Getting married is one of those big events in your life that changes everything. For Elodie, plans for her upcoming wedding are being pulled away from her by her controlling future mother-in-law.

Elodie works as an archivist in London and one day discovers an old satchel, an old photo, and an old sketch of a large house that will change everything and lead Elodie on a quest to discover the truth about the house and the lady in the photograph. Was she meant to find these items and how are they ultimately connected to her own past?

Kate Morton is known for epic sagas – and at nearly 600 pages this is no exception.

Told in multiple timelines, the action moves swiftly from the present to the 1880s, the early 1900s, and the 1940s as the story of the house and its inhabitants unfold. With a vast cast of characters this does require some concentration to keep track of who’s who, and sometimes the story changes time period just as you were becoming engrossed. However, it is worth persevering.

Part love story, part ghost story, part murder mystery, and part commentary on social class divide in the Victorian era Morton brings the various stories vividly to life on the page. Who is the clockmaker’s daughter and how did she come to linger at Birchwood Manor? And how will this all help Elodie come to terms with the path that her own life is about to take?

Animal Antics: The Leaping Lion by Lucy Courtenay Brian is an excitable lion cub. His dad is the King of the Savannah, so a lot is expected of him. He tries to be big and intimidating, like his dad. There is one thing that Brian loves doing more than anything else and that is playing leapfrog. He is the best in the savannah and is always searching for the next big thing to leapfrog over. So, when he tackles his biggest leapfrog ever and fails, he is mortified when all the other animals laugh at him. Humiliated he vows to never leapfrog again.

That is, until he learns that the Animal Olympics are going to be held in the savannah and leapfrog is one of the events!

Can he pluck up the courage to compete and risk more humiliation? Will he make his dad proud?

This lovely short chapter book (92 pages) is perfect for young animal lovers, combining animal facts – such as the fact that female lions do most of the hunting – with a fun story.

Who knows, maybe lions really ARE good at leapfrog?

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