What’s inside this issue…
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Hospital nursery celebrates 'good' report from inspectors
STAFF and children at a Salisbury nursery are celebrating after a visit from Ofsted inspectors.
Tops Salisbury, at Salisbury District Hospital, has been handed a 'good' rating after a recent inspection for its work with children aged between three months and school age.
The Ofsted report said: "Children are happy and settled. Staff are caring and nurturing, supporting children to make good progress with their learning and development. There is an effective key-person system in place. Children have time to settle and bond with staff.
"Staff know their key children well and plan goodquality activities to enable them to make progress towards their next steps of learning."
It also said the nursery "works closely with parents to swiftly identify any children who may need additional intervention".
"They link with external professionals to ensure that targeted support plans help children to achieve," it went on.
"Staff use visual timelines and the picture exchange system
to support children's language development and to help them understand routines. This gives children a sense of belonging and helps them to feel valued."
Staff building good relationships with parents was also highlighted, working together to "create children's next steps".
"They ask parents for information from children's weekend experiences, such as day trips or family events, and incorporate this into activities to extend their interests and learning," it added.
After the report was issued Hayley Randall, nursery manager at Tops Salisbury, said: "We are delighted to have received a "Good" rating in our recent Ofsted inspection.
"This achievement is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and passion of our entire team, who strive every day to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environments for all our children.
"We are proud to support families in giving their children the very best start in their early years, and this recognition further motivates us to continue growing, evolving, and
Hospital charity's tribute to DJ legend and patron Johnnie Walker
Walker was a patron of the Stars Appeal for almost 20 years
SALISBURY District Hospital charity, the Stars Appeal, has paid tribute to long-time patron Johnnie Walker, who passed away this week.
The iconic DJ, famed for his radio shows on the BBC and beyond, passed away on New Year’s Eve at the age of 79.
He became a patron of the Stars Appeal when it was founded in 2007, after he was
cared for at Salisbury Hospital when he underwent cancer treatment some years before, and supported the charity from then on.
Paying tribute, a charity spokesperson said: “We are greatly saddened by the news yesterday that our long-time Patron and great friend and supporter Johnnie Walker MBE has passed away.
“Johnnie became a patron of
the Stars Appeal upon our launch in 2007, having been cared for at the Hospital during his cancer treatment some years earlier. Johnnie’s attendance at many of our fundraising events and celebrations of completed projects over nearly 20 years supporting the charity, always accompanied by his wife Tiggy, helped make these occasions extra special and his work for us played a key role in raising our
profile both locally and nationally.
“In 2009, he gave a special performance of his touring show at Salisbury Arts Centre to raise funds for the new Children’s Unit, which to this day continues to help thousands of local children and families.
“We will miss Johnnie greatly and we send our deepest sympathies and love to Tiggy and all his family and friends.”
New homes plan for unused barn in Wiltshire village
NEW homes could be created at a barn on the outskirts of a village near Salisbury.
The occupiers of Cowesfield House have applied to convert a former agricultural building into five new homes.
The site, to the north of Cowesfield Green and east of Whiteparish, previously formed part of a complex serving a pig farm that ceased trading in 2003.
Atlas Planning Group, on behalf of the applicant, said: “The proposal will introduce five new dwellings to the area, providing more choice for house buyers and helping to achieve housing targets in
Wiltshire Council, whose housing supply is lacking.
“In the short term, the conversion of the building will provide employment benefits for the construction industry, which is a clear economic benefit of the scheme.
“Another longer-term economic benefit of the proposed change of use is the boost to the local economy which will come from new residents utilising local services.”
They added: “The new dwellings has
been designed to complement the existing agricultural form of the building and owing to its discrete position on the site, would not harm the character and appearance of the area.”
Access has been proposed off the current access via Romsey Road.
To view and comment on the plans, visit the planning section of Wiltshire Council’s website,reference PL/2024/11586.
Johnnie
Picture: Stars Appeal
Vote for your favourite takeaway to win big!
RESTAURANTS
and takeaways in Salisbury and the surrouding area have made the semi-finals in a national competition.
The finalists have been revealed in the 2025 British Kebab Awards, and include a number of Wiltshire eateries across a range of categories.
Now, members of the public are being urged to vote for their favourites in the awards, which are running for the 12th year, with the winners set to be announced at a glittering ceremony at London’s Park Plaza Westminster Hotel on February 27.
“This year’s semi-finalists represent a diverse array of Kebab restaurants and takeaways, each bringing its unique flair, flavours, and traditions to the fore,” an awards spokesperson said.
“The competition is fierce, with establishments vying for top honours across various categories, including Best Kebab Restaurant, Best Takeaway, and more.
“The semi-finalists have demonstrated unparalleled commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction, earning their rightful place among the
industry’s elite. Their dedication to excellence is a testament to the Kebab industry’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion for delivering unforgettable dining experiences.”
Here are the Salisbury and selected other nearby restaurants that have made the semi-finals of the British Kebab Awards 2025 – and how you can vote for them:
Best Delivery
Mem-Et Kebab (Forest Kebab): 163 Station Rd, West Moors, Ferndown
Vote at: https://voting. britishkebabawards.co.uk/ mem-et-kebab-forest-kebab
Best Newcomer Restaurant Boscombe Grill, 2 Bence Court, Archers Way, Amesbury Vote at: https://voting. britishkebabawards.co.uk/ boscombe-grill-salisbury
Best Takeaway Regional
The Family Kebab House, 1 Kingsway House, Smithfield Street, Salisbury
Vote at: https://voting. britishkebabawards.co.uk/ the-family-kebab-housesalisbury
Thieves strip empty Salisbury house of copper wire
THIEVES reportedly stripped an uninhabited house in Salisbury of £1,500-worth of copper wire.
Police said the burglary took place in Castle Road some time between 10am and noon on December 14.
A Salisbury Police spokesperson said:
“We are appealing for witnesses following a burglary in Castle Road, adjacent to Radnor Road, on December 14.
“Suspects stripped an uninhabited house of £1,500 worth of copper wire and caused damage to patio doors."
Anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area should contact police on 101, quoting reference number 54240147443 or via www.wiltshire.police. uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime.
The Family Kebab House in Salisbury, main picture, Forest Kebabs in Ferndown, top right, and Boscombe Grill in Amesbury, bottom right, have made the semi-finals
Pictures: Google
Man, 25, jailed over sex offence attempt
SALISBURY man Louis Large has been sentenced to six years and six months in prison after attempting to arrange a child sex offence.
Large was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on December 18 and was also made the subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Protection Order and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Between June and July 2024, the 25-year-old was found to be in communication with another man; Damien Saunders, 40, from Pewsey, arranging to meet children to carry out sex offences using social media and instant messaging.
Saunders was sentenced on November 4, at Swindon Crown Court, to two years in prison.
DS Toni Nugent said: “We know that it can be daunting to report incidents of sexual abuse, but I want to reassure anyone affected that we take all reports of this nature incredibly seriously.
“Our message will always be that we’re ready when you are, that
you’ll be listened to, and taken seriously.
“I’m pleased with these sentences, putting two men who pose serious risk to children in prison for some time. Luckily in this circumstance no-one was assaulted.
“SHPOs are put in place by the court to protect the public from sexual harm. The conditions assist in managing sex offenders, and may restrict things such as;
n Erasing of search history
n Procurement/destruction of devices
n Contact with certain demographics
n Type or number of devices owned
“We will continue to manage these orders robustly and undertake more work that goes unreported.”
Anyone who suspects a person of carrying out child sexual exploitation, or thinks someone they know has been a victim, or may be soon, should contact Wiltshire Police on 101.
GETAWAYS
Luis Large has been jailed for six years and six months Picture: Wiltshire Police
Stars Appeal trekkers after last year's effort
Test yourself in 2025 - and raise vital funds for hospital's Stars Appeal
PEOPLEare being urged to set themselves a new year’s resolution to back a Salisbury charity in 2025.
The Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital’s charity, is calling on people to take on a new challenge in support of projects benefiting patients and staff.
After 10 years of successful
treks and as the 20th Walk for Wards approaches, this year adventurers have a choice of Stars Appeal fundraising initiatives.
The charity said participants will help change the lives of patients, their families, and the NHS staff who care for them at Salisbury Hospital.
And they could change their own lives too, making new friends, exploring unfamiliar
places, or taking on activities they’ve never tried before.
Top of the list is September’s Pedal for the Stars challenge, a sponsored bike ride of 250 miles over four days, from Salisbury Hospital to Paris.
Commemorating Salisbury Hospital’s connection with the Armed Forces, the route takes in sites in France with links to the Normandy Landings and D Day before finishing under the iconic Eiffel Tower.
There’s a chance to find out more at an information evening in Salisbury City Centre, on Monday, January 20.
Those who prefer to walk can squeeze a magical adventure into a weekend, tackling the highest mountain in Wales in the dark on the Snowdon by Night trek in June.
And in July, the Stars Appeal celebrates the 20th Walk for Wards with a new 15km route exploring more of the beautiful grounds of Wilton House, as well as the established 3km, 5km and 10km routes.
Runners aren’t forgotten, with a choice of 3km, 5km, 10km and half marathon races this May, organised by the Race for Men team.
“If all of those are too close to the ground, the Stars Appeal invites adrenaline junkies to skydive at Old Sarum throughout the year,” a charity spokesperson said.
“Cycle? Walk? Run? Jump? Each challenge will be an experience to remember.
“Participants will have the satisfaction of raising vital funds for a much-loved local charity, helping to fund new
equipment, enhancements to buildings, and ongoing projects supporting patients across Salisbury Hospital, including the Stars Appeal Wi-Fi, hospital chaplaincy, support for patients with cancer and the Stars Appeal Play Assistant on Sarum Children’s Ward.”
Chair of the Stars Appeal Ambassadors, consultant surgeon Mr Graham Branagan, who completed a cycling challenge for the charity, said: “Getting out of your comfort zone really inspires supporters to sponsor you.
“Training for your adventure is a brilliant way to get fit and connect with friends and colleagues. And the team spirit on these organised challenges is so supportive.
“What better way to support our hospital charity than by challenging yourself to do something different?”
To find out more, or to get involved in any of the above challenges for the Stars Appeal, go to starsappeal.org/events.
Picture: Spencer Mulholland
Pedal for the Stars takes participants to Paris
Picture: Discover Adventure
Pet insurance plan earns Salisbury firm a top award from Claudia!
SALISBURY-based Tedaisy Insurance
Group has received an award for its ‘Perfect Pet’ insurance brand.
News site Insurance Times celebrates the sector’s “greatest achievements” throughout the past year with their awards night, hosted by Claudia Winkleman.
The firm’s Perfect Pet insurance brand won a coveted Insurance Times Gold Award in the ‘Personal Lines’ category.
The judges said: “The winning broker demonstrated a healthy balance of commercial and customer focus with strong revenue growth, high retention rates, and a rising TrustPilot score.
“Employing a voice of the customer representative for such a small company also really impressed the judges.”
Managing director of Tedaisy Insurance Group, Natalie Surtees, said: “I am so thrilled to accept this prestigious industry award in recognition of what we provide to our
Perfect Pet customers.
“This is the tip of the iceberg for us; as the owner’s champion and passionate pet lovers ourselves; we are really excited about our plans to bring even more dedication to pet well-being to our customers.”
Perfect Pet insurance was founded by passionate pet owners Paul Byrne (CEO) and Natalie Surtees in 2017 who, using their industry expertise, sought to bring exceptional service, innovation and support to pet owners across the UK.
Six years on, the company now insures hundreds of thousands of our furry friends and is highly rated by their owners, with a Trustpilot score 4.6.
As well as a range of cover options; Perfect Pet policies offer owners services such as an in-house Perfect Pet Vet, an online signs and symptoms checker and a 24-hour vet assist line that helps owners make the right decisions when their pets are in need.
Co-founder and CEO, Paul Byrne, with the award for the Perfect Pet brand
Picture: Tedaisy Insurance Group
Sporting fun and competition on offer at special day of events
PEOPLEwith disabilities in and around Salisbury enjoyed a ‘disability sports takeover’ at Five Rivers Health and Wellbeing Centre.
The event, on December 6, served as an opportunity for people to try their hand at a mix of high energy and more relaxed activities – including adapted cycling, wheelchair basketball, inclusive dance, boccia, kurling, seated exercise, swimming and sports hall games.
In addition, an inclusive gym session was delivered by staff members at Five Rivers, promoting the recently refurbished gym and highlighting the accessibility and inclusivity of the equipment and facility.
The event, organised by the Wiltshire Council’s sport and physical activity team, saw 82 people with disabilities take part in the fun.
The event was open to disabled and non-disabled people of all ages, individuals with long-term health conditions, those with mobility impairments, people looking to be more active and those who simply wanted to have a go.
One parent said: “Friday was a brilliant showcase of what you guys provide to our community.
“I hope Salisbury Leisure Centre is open to this happening on a regular basis.
“As a result,
our son would like to join the gym. Being able to meet gym staff on Friday gave him a lot of confidence to want to join a new sports activity alongside his martial arts. A huge thank you to you and your team”
Councillor Ian BlairPilling, cabinet member for leisure, said: “I’m delighted that the disability sport takeover event was such a huge success with so many people attending.
“I’m even more delighted that as a result, people now
have the confidence to engage in more activities or join the gym.
“One of our key business plan priorities is to help people in Wiltshire increase their activity levels and improve their health, and this event provided a safe space for people to come along and have a go, engage in new activities and meet new people.”
Cllr Jane Davies, cabinet member for adult social care, SEND and inclusion, said: “The event helped to bring people together, and raise awareness of the community sport and physical activity opportunities available to disabled people in Wiltshire.
“Accessing these types of activities will really enable people to maximise their independence and hopefully help us to break down some of the barriers stopping them from participating.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to the sport and physical activity team and also to Wiltshire Inclusive Dance who helped plan and deliver the event, and also provided a range of inclusive, person-centred activities for individuals with complex needs, including sensory soft play and inclusive movement workshops for all.
“We look forward to the next event.”
n For a full list of activities on offer in Wiltshire, email sportsdevelopment@ wiltshire.gov.uk.
High quality care in Wiltshire
At Salisbury Manor care home in Wiltshire, our highly trained teams are experts in providing high quality care from residential, nursing and dementia care, to short term care. Our purpose-built home offers luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, hair salon, cinema and beautiful landscaped gardens.
A lifestyle tailored to you
At our ‘good’ CQC rated home we’ll support you to continue living your life the way you choose. We’ll learn all about your interests and preferences so we can create a fully personalised lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy whether it’s gardening, cheese and wine socials or playing chess.
Trust us to care
Salisbury Manor care home in Wiltshire is part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years.
In our recent relative survey, 95% of families were impressed with the overall presentation of the home^ and 93% of families felt staff treat their relative with kindness, dignity and respect.^
To find out more about Salisbury Manor, call 01722 638 965. Salisbury Manor, Shapland Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7EJ careuk.com/salisbury-manor
^Care UK relative survey April & September 2023. Study operated by QRS Market Research, an independent survey agency.
Wednesday 12th February 2025 10.30am – 12 noon
Join us for our free dementia café at Salisbury Manor. Aimed at those living with dementia and their loved ones, you’ll have the opportunity to meet other people, share experiences, take part in our fun activities, and get advice and support from our dementia Champion Elaine. We will have complimentary refreshments on hand, including freshly baked cakes prepared by our Head Chef.
Trusted to care.
Salisbury Manor care home
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To book please call 01722 638 965 or email suzanne.hesk@careuk.com
We are on your doorstep, whenever you need us
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Drink driver, 35, banned after crash
driver has been banned from driving for 22 months after he crashed into a car containing a family of four in Durrington.
Jake Ridgway, of Magnolia Drive, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was found to be two-and-a-half times over the legal drink-drive limit after the smash, on April 19 last year.
The 35-year-old was driving a black Audi when he pulled out of a junction on Larkhill Road and crashed into a Vauxhall Insignia containing the family.
A roadside breath test on Ridgway gave a reading of 97mg per 100ml of breath –well above the 35mg limit – while a subsequent blood test came back as 205mg, more than double the 80mg legal limit for alcohol.
Ridgway pleaded guilty to driving at more than two-and-ahalf times the legal drink drive
limit at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on January 2. He was disqualified from driving for 22 months and fined £600.
PC Taylor, based in Salisbury, said: “Drink driving is one of the fatal five offences
– in 2022 it’s estimated that 6,800 people were killed or injured when at least one driver was over the limit.
“Fortunately in this case there were no injuries, and I’m pleased the courts have taken another drink driver off the roads.
“If you know you are going out and are drinking, don’t take the risk driving home.
“Get a taxi, walk or get a lift. Plan your journey home – do not risk your life or the life of others.”
The crash happened in Larkhill Road, Durrington, in April last year
Plan to revamp 'dead stretch' of Salisbury street
Pictures: Google
APLAN
to breathe new life into a "dead stretch" of shop units in Salisbury has moved to the next stage.
Magic Carpets Commercial Ltd submitted plans to convert 7-11 Brown Street into two one-bed flats and one studio flat.
The building, in Brown Street, houses the former City Carpets and Shergold Funeral Directors businesses.
It is hoped the proposed new flats would “improve the look” of the street and bring “life and movement" to the stretch.
Plans to change the use of the former businesses from
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November, but this didn’t include any changes to the external appearance of the buildings.
The latest plans seek to make elevational changes to the properties, which include removing the existing shop signs to the front and rear and replacing the existing shop windows and doors to help reduce the traffic noise from Brown Street.
A replacement bike store for 15 bikes has also been proposed.
There is no existing or proposed street parking available to the proposed flats.
Relph Ross Partnership
Architects, on behalf of the applicant, said: “This proposal makes good use of an otherwise redundant building within the conservation area.
“This building as it stands today has a ‘negative’ impact on the conservation area.”
It added: “The proposal brings ‘life and movement’ to an otherwise ‘dead’ stretch of Brown Street.”
n To view and comment on the plans, visit the planning section on Wiltshire Council’s website at wiltshire.gov.uk and search reference PL/2024/11556.
The plans would see new flats created in the Brown Street buildings
How the new flats could look at 7-11 Brown Street in Salisbury
Bus chief Andrew awarded MBE
THEmanaging director of Salisbury Reds said he is “delighted and humbled” to be recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours List.
Andrew Wickham was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his many years of service to the bus industry.
MBE’s are awarded to individuals who have shown to make a significant and long-term impact on their community or in their line of work.
Speaking about his MBE, Mr Wickham said: “I am delighted and humbled to have been recognised with an MBE – and am proud that my long career and dedication to the bus industry has been recognised in such a prestigious way.
“Above all, my own success has been underpinned by the skill and perseverance of my colleagues – past and present.
“I would like to thank them for the support and dedication they have shown me over the course of my career.”
Mr Wickham has been the managing director at Salisbury Reds since 2011.
Before that, he graduated from Aston University in 1987 with a BSc (Hons) in
Transport Operation and Planning and joined Brighton Borough Transport in 1986, while at university.
He later held various roles across the county, including at London General Transport Services, and Plymouth Citybus and he is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.
A spokesperson for Salisbury Reds said:
“Andrew has confidently led us through various challenges, including Covid.
“He has maintained strong relationships with local authorities and stakeholders to share in his vision to increase the appeal and popularity of bus travel.”
n More honours news on page 18
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Andrew Wickham has been awarded the MBE
The great and good of Wiltshire recognised in King's New Year's Honours list for 2025
THE King’s New Year Honours List for 2025 has been revealed – and there’s a number of people across Wiltshire who have been highlighted for the invaluable work they do in the county.
The list showcases the achievements and dedication of those who have gone above and beyond for their community and it includes volunteers, public workers, sports people and business people.
Some of those honoured in the list include Dr Peter Anthony Thompson for his services to science and technology and Michael John Perrin, president of Melksham Town Football Club, for services to grassroots football.
Wiltshire people awarded
New Year Honours include:
Commanders of the Order of the British Empire
• Dr Peter Anthony Thompson, chief executive officer at
National Physical Laboratory.
For services to Science and Technology (Salisbury)
• Peter Alexander Clegg, senior partner at Feilden Clegg
Bradley Studios. For services to architecture (Chippenham, Wiltshire)
• Carole Gould, campaigner and co-founder of Killed Women. For services to the victims of domestic violence and their families (Calne, Wiltshire)
Officers of the Order of the British Empire
• Richard Livesey, scientific adviser, Ministry of Defence.
For services to Defence (Salisbury, Wiltshire)
• Dr Petra Claire Farquhar Oyston, fellow, defence science and technology laboratory. For services to Science and Defence (Salisbury, Wiltshire)
Members of the Order of the British Empire
• Laura Anne Lillian Ward-Ongley, founder and global chief executive officer, EXEAT. For services to international trade, to sustainability and to women in business (Salisbury, Wiltshire)
• Rachel Luise Yates, director of clinical improvement, GIRFT Programme. For services to clinical quality improvement and patient safety
TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved former Verwood teacher who has passed away at the age of 83.
Marina Palethorpe taught at Hillside School before retirement and sadly passed away at the Ives House Care Home on Boxing Day.
A spokesperson for Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors, on behalf of her family, said she passed away “peacefully”. “She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved
(Swindon)
• Michael John Perrin, president of Melksham Town Football Club. For services to grassroots football and to the community in Melksham.
her,” they added.
Among tributes on social media was one which said: “That’s so sad. Mrs Palethorpe was my first teacher at Hillside. A wonderful lady, many treasured childhood memories. Sending love to her family at this difficult time.”
The funeral is at New Forest Crematorium at noon on Friday, (January 17) with donations, in lieu of flowers, to Alzheimer’s UK.
Dr Peter Thompson, CEO at the National Physical Laboratory
Laura Ward-Ongley, founder of EXEAT, has been made an MBE
Expert's talk in Salisbury will cover the A to bee of apiculture!
ABEE
expert will be discussing all things apicultural during a talk in Salisbury on Wednesday (January 15).
Richard Rickett, one of the UK’s best-known beekeepers and co-editor of BeeCraft magazine, will be the guest of Sarum u3a for a talk at St Francis Church.
He is the author of the award-winning book, Beekeeping for Gardeners, which will be on sale alongside honey at the talk, which gets underway at 10am with coffee.
"Our pollinators are in peril; bumblebees, solitary bees and honeybees are all under threat from the modern-day onslaught of pesticides, habitat loss and intensive agriculture," a spokesperson said.
"Yet between them, the almost 300-species of UK bee, along with other pollinators, are responsible for more than a third of everything we eat.
"This fascinating and richly illustrated talk will introduce many of the bee species found in the UK and explain how you can help to save them by creating a pollinator oasis in your garden – or window box, if that’s all you have."
Members and guests are welcome to attend the meeting. Parking is available at the rear of the church or in a car park on the opposite side of the main road.
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Liz and Maggie show agility skills to win top national competition
AWILTSHIRE
dog – and her trainer –picked up a title at one of the world’s most prestigious agility competitions.
Liz Carpenter and her crossbreed, Ag Ch Moseleywood Maggie AW(P) (Maggie), from Pewsey, won The Kennel Club Medium Dog Agility Stakes final on December 22.
Liz and Maggie competed in qualifying heats across the country to earn one of just ten places in the medium final at The Kennel Club Agility Stakes, one of the most prestigious agility competitions in the world, held at The London International Horse Show at ExCeL London.
The judge this year was Jackie Gardner, with assistant judge Nic Jones.
Proud owner Liz said: “I have never won
this event before, and it is Maggie’s first time here. What an amazing end to the year, we loved every minute.”
Held in association with Skinner’s, The Kennel Club Agility Stakes saw top agility stars of the highest grades (Grade 5, 6 or 7), who had earned qualification in competitions throughout the year, compete in five height finals across small, medium, large, intermediate and large ABC (Anything but Collie) categories.
Ben Skinner, of Skinner’s, said: “Huge congratulations to Liz and Maggie for such an amazing performance at this year’s Kennel Club Agility Stakes final where the talent and dedication of both dogs and handlers are celebrated. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for this
Motorbike seized in Wilton
REPORTS of a motorbike being ridden dangerously in Salisbury - with no number plates or lights - led to a vehicle being seized.
Officers from the Salisbury Neighbourhood Team patrolled St Peter's Place and surrounding areas on Monday night (January 6) after receiving calls about the anti-social behaviour.
"Officers quickly located the bike in question on The Avenue, Wilton," a spokesperson said.
"The vehicle has subsequently been seized for having no valid insurance."
amazing team.”
Catherine Guiver, head of events at The Kennel Club, added: “Congratulations to Liz and Maggie for their impressive performance, the pair should feel very proud of their win.
“The Kennel Club Agility Stakes is a tough competition and requires commitment and hard work, which was displayed by all competing dogs and their handlers throughout the qualifying process.”
n For owners interested in getting started in agility with their dog, The Kennel Club has created a guide which can be found online at thekennelclub.org.uk/ newtoagility.
Making our dream retirement a reality
The rising cost of living and future uncertainty can be daunting. Retirement living experts, Platinum Skies, make the dream of a fulfilling retirement more attainable than ever with easy, low-cost living.
Jill has rheumatoid arthritis and uses a powered wheelchair outside the home. She lived in a 3-bedroom house that she was finding increasingly harder to look after.
“ Platinum Skies gave me the ability to move before my house completed with the part exchange scheme. There was help with solicitors and estate agents and all the financial side of things. They also arranged for me to have help from Senior Move, who helped me downsize and declutter, pack and unpack.
I enjoy that there are so many activities. You can get involved in as much or as little as you like. There are activities like Gardening Club and Book Club, quizzes, a painting club and bingo. There are pop-up shops, healthy eating workshops, and activities like Knitter-Natter and Bowls, as well as coffee mornings and visits from external speakers.
Thank you to everybody, the homeowners and the Platinum Skies staff because coming in as a single person can be quite daunting. However, it was so lovely to be welcomed right from day one.”
Ian is enjoying the next chapter of his life with new likeminded friends. Ian downsized from a four-bedroom family home following the death of his beloved wife.
“ One of the features that attracted me to Platinum Skies was its flexible purchase options. It allows you to buy an apartment that you wouldn’t be able to afford normally. The Shared Ownership Scheme releases equity in your house, which gives you options for the future - whether you want to give it to your children or go on a world cruise! You have that flexibility.
With the money released from my previous house, I’ve invested it for my children. Hopefully, the savings will grow and become their inheritance.”
Why not come and see how we’re challenging misconceptions of retirement.
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Charity role for brushmaker Philip
CHAIR
of renowned brushmaker Hillbrush – Philip Coward – said a day out with the Wiltshire Bobby Van convinced him to get involved with the charity.
Seeing first-hand how the van’s operatives care for victims of crime and domestic abuse convinced Mr Coward to become chair of the cause.
Mr Coward, takes on the role from Robert Hiscox, who has stepped down after 25 years to become Honorary Lifetime President.
He is also set to become chairman of the Royal Warrant Holders Charity in April and was unsure if he would have the time for both, until Bobby Van Director Jennie Shaw invited him for a day out on the van with operative Mick Leighfield.
The charity, which works in partnership with Wiltshire Police, has three vans operated by former police officers who visit homes across Wiltshire and Swindon.
They offer and fit home security measures and fire safety assessments for people over 60, those at risk of
domestic abuse or over 18 with a registered disability, completely free of charge.
"I knew roughly what the charity does but not everything and when I went out with Mick on the van I just couldn’t believe what was happening behind some quite nice-looking front doors," said Mr Coward.
He was left moved by the plight of burglary and domestic abuse victims they met, as well as the care and attention given them by Mr Leighfield.
"That was the most impressive thing," he said. “It is reasonably straightforward go in and change a lock and give someone a panic alarm but it was the time he spent talking to the people, reassuring them and putting their mind at rest that was so much more important. He was totally brilliant at it.
“I came away convinced that I wanted to be chair so I said I’d do it. I think Jennie knew that she could persuade me by sending me out on the van.”
His ambition as chair is to grow the Bobby Van’s fundraising.
The charity, which last year
helped around 1,200 victims of crime and more than 300 people suffering domestic abuse, receives no statutory funding and has to raise more than £300,000 a year to maintain the service.
“I just want to make sure that the charity at least carries on but then keeps growing,” Mr Coward said. “We have to ensure we’ve got sustainable fundraising because that’s the most important thing, if you can’t fundraise, the whole thing dies.
“I would like to reduce the six-week waiting time for visits, which is not really right. It shouldn’t be more than two or three weeks really.”
Mr Coward this year marked 50 years since he joined Mere-based Hillbrush straight from an engineering degree, becoming the third generation of the family to run the firm since it was founded in 1922.
He has seen the company grow to a world-leading supplier of brooms and brushes for the domestic and commercial market, exporting to more than 90 countries.
He led the project to move Hillbrush and its 120 staff from the south side of Mere to a purpose-built headquarters, complete with a museum and restaurant, near the A303.
Four years ago he handed the reins over to his son Charlie and nephew Andy, who are joint managing directors.
As chair he is still involved in the business, particularly with the research and development and engineering side.
He said his first months with the Bobby Van will be about getting to know its staff, volunteers and stakeholders.
"I’m looking forward to working with everyone and understanding more about how it all works," he said. “Above all, I want to try and bring across to people just how much the Bobby Van does and how important its service is so we can continue to grow and help even more people.”
n Find out more about the work of the charity at wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk.
Philip Coward has taken on the role as chair of the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust
City football fans deliver Christmas joy at hospital
YOUNGSTERS at Salisbury Hospital got a special visit from town football fans who handed out Christmas gifts.
In the run-up to the big day, members of the Salisbury FC Supporters Club committee were joined by manager Brian Dutton, assistant manager Callum Hart and mascot Chalky the panda to deliver presents to children on the Sarum Ward.
"In what can be a tough period for both the children and their families, we hoped to just spread a tiny bit of joy, with one child saying it was 'the best day ever' upon opening his gift," a club supporters spokesperson said.
"Almost £200 worth of presents were handed out and we look forward to going again next year."
Politics
'Making a difference - little by little'
'DON'T believe it!’, exclaimed Victor Meldrew. He could have been talking about me.
One minute I was just like all of us, ranting at the TV following yet another bonkers decision by our new Labour government. The next minute I was being made aware of a short notice vacancy to be a Salisbury City Councillor!
I am sure I am not alone in ranting at my TV when yet more bad news cascades down from our political masters but there is no point in complaining unless you are prepared to do something about it, right?
‘Why do it? What do you think you can achieve?’
My wife’s question was repeated when I faced the inquisition of the full council just two months ago.
My response was to recount one of my favourite stories: A great storm had caused thousands of starfish to become stranded along a beach.
The tide was going out and they didn’t have long before being baked by the sun.
A little boy was picking them up, one at a time, and throwing them back to the sea, when he was approached by a man.
The man said to the boy, ‘Why are you doing this? There are thousands of starfish –you’re never going to be able to save them all. There’s no point, you won’t make a difference’.
The little boy paused for a moment in thought, before
Cllr Chris Taylor –Conservative, Salisbury St Paul’s Ward
need to speak to.
And I can support fantastic events like our Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day services and Holocaust Memorial Day.
And I can visit places like the Jo Benson Centre and chat to the day visitors.
And I can add weight to the campaign to save Old Sarum Airfield.
picking up another starfish and hurling it into the sea.
And he said, ‘Well, I made a difference for that one!’.
After three decades as a test pilot, all the projects I have worked on have resulted in aircraft that are safer.
However, I now realise, after just two months as a councillor, I will not be able to fix everything personally, but I can act as a conduit between frustrated residents and the services and departments they
And I can lead by example by cycling everywhere (unless it is raining too hard!).
So far I have enjoyed turning the tide, just a little, by getting drains unblocked, road markings refreshed, zebra crossings improved, warning signs added, and safer cycle routes planned and established. I personally can’t reverse the bonkers decisions of our new government but I can at least try to make Salisbury a better place to live. We can all throw a starfish back into the sea once in a while.
'We're peppered with geek speak'
WHILE
other World leaders are calling hastily prepared press conferences to announce; The imposition and/ or cancellation of Martial law; The nullifying of the election result; or the fall of the government, our illustrious leader is calling the press together for what can only be described as a ‘re-branding’ press junket, peppered with what I have heard referred to as ‘Geek Speak’.
But let’s face it, any ‘Geek' worth his or her salt would not be seen repeating such a double qualifier. And what are you going to measure your marker in? Surely not miles, because that has clearly been done. There is a clue in the word mile which precedes the name of the stone. Kilometres maybe, to add insult to injury mixing ones metaphors.
There is, however, a serious
point here; what inane rubbish our politicians spoon feed us with in the hope of appeasement. So, while the rest of the world goes to hell in a handcart, the best we can get from Labour is measurable milestones for our target-led economy.
King Arthur Pendragon Former and proposed Independent Parliamentary candidate for Salisbury
party.
Meanwhile in Tory-land, we see the constant rupturing of assets as yet more members and MP’s defect to the Reform
As I said before, the old guard are falling across the world, people have had enough of all the ‘jobs for the boys’ and the slow grinding on of justice, both done and seen to be done (or on the whole not seen to be done at all) from our politicians. Fed up with the ‘company perks’ and jollies they set themselves up for, the increasing years of scrutiny and
inquiry they take to arrive, at what is usually the very decision we would have expected on day one. Committee this, and committee that, nor forgetting the subcommittee this, and the Office of that, and the miles of red tape they wrap it all in.
Don’t even start me on the chemicals (Bovaer) they are pumping into our cattle feed to stop cows farting. Guess we’ll be drinking free range milk from now on, rather than Arla’s products, but that’s for another day.
Well, there you go, more of the same. If like me you have had enough, you know what to do. Don’t like what’s on offer next time you get a chance, stand up and do it yourself or vote for someone that will, vote independent.
Until next time...
State-funded care dropped by 10%
AREPORT
published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) published in October 2024 stated, “despite significant growth in the older population, the number of older people receiving state-funded care in England has dropped by 10% since 2014–15 due to tightening eligibility criteria”
Furthermore, according to the IFS, public spending on adult social care failed to keep pace with demographic pressures between 2009–10 and 2022–23. This is piling enormous pressure on the NHS. To meet demand pressures, particularly from an ageing population and rising costs, the Office for Budget Responsibility projects that UK-wide public spending on adult social care would need to increase by 3.1% per year in real terms over the next decade.
In November, more than 12,400 hospital patients a day were well enough to leave but had to stay overnight. One in three of these delays were due to care not being available in the community.
“There is no solution to the crisis in the NHS that doesn’t include a solution for social
Cllr John Wells Labour chair of Environment and Climate Committee (Salisbury City Council)
care,” said Secretary for State for Health, Wes Streeting, faced with the task of addressing the current crisis.
Adult social care is the responsibility of 153 local authorities in England, increasingly funded by local council tax revenues since 2010.
The IFS pointed out in their report: “It therefore matters not just how much is spent at a national level, but where it is spent. In the absence of a well-functioning local government finance system, there is a risk of a severe mismatch between local funding and local needs.”
The report sheds light on a key factor which has reduced the level of national care to the current unsatisfactory level. Revised formulas are essential
“for assessing councils’ spending needs” because “existing funding is, to a large extent, based on formulas last updated in 2013, and in some cases, rather ridiculously, using data from as far back as 2001”.
Streeting’s immediate response has been to legislate for fair pay agreements to help fill the 131,000 vacancies in social care, approve a rise the carer’s allowance for family carers, and have allocated extra funding to social care in the budget.
Long-term reform will be the brief of an independent commission on building a National Care Service. Louise Casey has agreed to chair the commission having served under Labour, Conservative and coalition governments.
Alongside the commission, the government is also announcing an in-year uplift to disabled facilities grant funding for 2024-25. This will provide about 7,800 extra home adaptations to help disabled people live safely and
independently in their own homes.
New national standards are to be published to help the people who use care, together with their families and care providers.
Intended outcomes are also to include more effective assistive technology, better integration of the NHS and social care, with the NHS and local government sharing funding and working together to keep people out of hospital, which is better for patients and less expensive for taxpayers.
There will be guidance and support to help care workers to carry out routine monitoring while they’re looking after people, including blood pressure checks.
The plan is also to join up care and medical records, so that NHS and care staff have the full picture they need to provide the best possible care to patients.
“We’ve done a lot in six months but there’s a hell of a lot more to do, and the best is yet to come,” Streeting said in a typically positive and upbeat summary of his ambitious reforms.
Residents give views on council spending
MAINTAINING
highways and footpaths, supporting children and adults and investing in housing were among residents' top spending priorities.
Last year, at a series of face-to-face interactive sessions in libraries and via an online survey, Wiltshire Council asked people to give their views on how it should prioritise spending in 2025/26.
More than 140 people attended the face-to-face drop-in events, in Salisbury, Chippenham and Trowbridge, where they were asked to place tokens in 10 boxes that represented council services, to
indicate which services they would prioritise and allocate money to.
Top came leisure centres and libraries (15%) and supporting and safeguarding children (15%), closely followed by investment in housing, roads and school buildings (13%) and supporting vulnerable adults (12%).
An online survey also asked people to allocate tokens to the service areas they thought most important.
Almost 1,700 people completed the survey and the top four service areas that respondents said Wiltshire Council should prioritise
spending on were: Maintenance of highway and footpaths – 17%; Supporting and safeguarding children 13%; Adults – supporting the vulnerable – 12%; Investment in housing, roads and school buildings – 11%.
Cllr Nick Botterill, cabinet member for finance, said: "Local authorities are legally obliged to set a balanced budget.
"Our prudent and preventative approach over the last few years has put Wiltshire Council in a strong position to deliver high quality services for Wiltshire's residents, businesses, and communities, in line with
our Business Plan priorities.
"However, we are not immune to the challenging times and local authority budgets are under greater scrutiny and pressure than ever before due to increasing demand for services, particularly for adults' services, children's social care and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)."
n The council will publish its draft budget proposals for 2025/26 in the coming weeks and the budget is due to be formally discussed and considered at a Full Council meeting on February 25.
Volunteering
Volunteer to brighten the gloomy winter months!
Wessex Community Action is the council for voluntary services in Wiltshire and provides practical support for community organisations on funding, governance, planning, policy development, recruiting and leadership. This monthly volunteering column looks at all aspects of volunteering and how people can give up their time for the benefit of their communities.
JANUARY
can feel like a long, challenging month when the days are short, the feelgood factor of Christmas has faded and there doesn’t appear to be much to look forward to.
It’s no wonder peoples’ mental health can suffer. However, volunteering can be a powerful antidote with its ability to raise spirits and add some purpose to the beginning of a new year.
Taking on some volunteer work, whether it’s for a few hours a month or longer, not only adds some direction it also makes connections, which is a key to wellbeing.
One of the biggest benefits of volunteering comes from the bonds it can forge. Just by being among others who are working towards the same goal means who are talking to new people, which is an effective way of boosting your emotional wellbeing at a time when many of us can be isolated.
There’s also no doubting that giving back to a cause knocks on the door of your brain’s reward centre and releases the endorphins that make you feel good about yourself. Who doesn’t need some of that at this time of year?
Wessex Community Action works with charities and groups to help them support their volunteers through training and recruitment ideas.
An ideal place to look for New Year volunteering opportunities is Wiltshire Together, a digital community platform hosted by Wessex Community Action. It’s free to use and allows users to browse and pledge interest for the opportunities listed.
A good example of the kind of role on offer is at Alzheimer’s Support’s Scots Lane day centre in Salisbury, picturd, where there is a need for a day club volunteer. “As
a day club volunteer you will be interacting with our members chatting, listening, joining in or leading small activities, helping to prepare and serve refreshments,” says co-ordinator Annie Clayton. “Any special skills or talents that can enrich the day will be welcomed.”
The charity also needs volunteers for its Muddy Boots outdoor groups at the Kennet Valley Hall, Lockeridge, and the REME Museum in Lyneham.
Annie says: “We're seeking friendly men and women to help out at our group for people living with dementia and family carers.
"It’s an uplifting and rewarding way to spend time enjoying the great outdoors.”
Wiltshire Together users can also set up a member profile that allows them to log their volunteer hours, which can help with CVs and employability prospects.
The site has a Volunteering in Wiltshire page at wiltshiretogether.org.uk wiltshirevolunteering.
n To find out more about trustee training and support or more about the volunteering support WCA can offer, contact Abby Lynch at info@wessexcommunityaction.org.uk.
Collection of cans Clarke’s Auctions
CLARKE’S Auctions would like to thank its clients for all their support throughout 2024 and is looking forward to its first sale of 2025.
The auction house is now busy clearing the decks for its February sale, after its mammoth four-day sale last week, and is now taking entries.
Prospective sellers are invited to give it a call to arrange for a specialist valuer to appraise their items.
Clarke’s moved to Gillingham last summer and has settled into its new premises.
Looking back on the year it saw some good results with a painting by Cedric Lockwood selling for £19,000 hammer, a Howard & Sons Bridgewater armchair for £4,000 and a 16th century pressed horn casket fetching £4,800.
Clarke’s has gained a reputation locally for offering
single owner collections and it will soon be auctioning the second half of a vast single owner collection of vintage Victorian and later advertising tins amassed over several decades.
Estimates range from a few pounds to a few hundred pounds.
The practice of packing food in tin cans came about in the early 1800s as it was considered more sanitary than food offered in communal bins or barrels.
Clarke’s is taking entries for future sales, and enquiries for consignment into its spring 2025 sales, probate or insurance valuations, part and full house clearances or home visits should be made to Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 or 01747 855109 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
Auctioneers & Valuers
Antiques & Collectibles Sale
Next Sale
Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August
Friday 7th & Saturday 8th February 2025 Antiques & Collectables
A fine early 18th century portrait miniature depicting a gentlemann. Sold for £5,400
An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600.
Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal valuations. Now accepting items for this and future sales e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
Iris brings anticipation of better days to come
by Sally Gregson
IRISES are a many and various tribe, thriving in such diverse positions as damp, boggy ponds, and dry, sun-baked terraces. So, to discover a species that flowers in midwinter should not come as a surprise.
In these early, dark days of the year, the Algerian Iris, I. unguicularis, opens out its large petals whenever the sun shines. And it brings joy, and anticipation for better days to come.
Plant a clump at the foot of a hot, sunny wall, and it will produce large, soft blue, scented
flowers – ideal to pick for a day on the kitchen table.
They are the perfect antidote to a wet winter’s day.
Iris unguicularis is native to the southern and eastern Mediterranean and to the dry shores of North Africa, where it grows in open, sun-baked ground.
Like so much of the indigenous flora, the flowers are taking advantage of the winter rainfall in such a hot clime.
And the microclimate is a factor when looking for a suitable position in a cold, damp, English garden – but be
warned, it can be killed with kindness.
Make sure the site is bonedry and sunny.
Resist the temptation to dollop lots of garden compost or well-rotted manure on the plant in the autumn, and it will reward you with flowers all winter.
There are a few selections to choose from, although the basic species is very garden-worthy.
Iris u. ‘Mary Barnard’ has altogether more intensely purple flowers than the species.
Its leaves are shorter and the whole plant deserves a special place, uncluttered by its neighbours.
There is the much less available form, Iris u. ‘Abington Purple’ with much darker purple flowers on strong plants, if you do spot one in spring.
They all have the quality of lifting the spirit on a gloomy January day, bringing a shot of sunshine into every gardener’s heart.
Their flowers are true harbingers of spring.
The Algerian Iris, I. unguicularis, opens out its large petals whenever the sun shines
Now can be the kindest time to be cutting back!
by Sally Gregson
CERTAIN shrubs and trees seem to ask every gardener to use their secateurs and trim off the dead ends all summer. And it is really wiser to resist acting until the whole plant is dormant. And that dormant time is right now!
Acers tend to die back from the tips of their stems for the slightest reason. Perhaps they have got thirsty or caught a drying wind earlier on, and the plant’s recourse is to reduce its top growth.
So, with a sharp pair of secateurs, cut back the dead tips down to the live wood. It should not bleed or die back any further if the plant has gone into winter dormancy. And while the secateurs are out, check also that the eventual shape is well balanced, with an airy centre, by cutting out any crossing or in-growing stems. Then give it a mulch of leaf-mould and it will bounce back with renewed vigour in spring.
Birches also can bleed if they are cut back at the wrong time
of year. Some of the most beautifully coloured bark is found on named varieties such as Betula albosinensis ‘Pink Champagne’, whose bark takes on the eponymous hue.
If these birches are bought as whips, or very small grafted trees, from a specialist grower, by year three or four in the garden, the lowest side-shoots will need to be trimmed off, close to the young ‘trunk’. Early winter is an excellent time to cut them back, before they grow away and turn your beautiful young tree into a bushy shrub. Even multi-stemmed birches need their individual uprights ‘tidied up’. They will then push up and mature the following spring.
And while you are trampling the ground around the base of the little birch it would be useful to squeeze in some scillas and snowdrops up close to the young trunk. They will make more of themselves and the whole display will reward all efforts, each and every spring.
Betula albosinensis ‘Pink Champagne’ has beautifully coloured bark
Cryptic crossword
Across
1 Praise wild Northern cat (7)
PLACE 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.
5 Spread food around lake (5)
Killer Sudoku Pro
9
9 Alcoholic gent confused regarding computing etc? (13)
10 Direction from short chap, independent British actor (8)
11 Person that’s feeble and tiny departs (4)
Down
2 By the sound of it, first person, truly attractive figure (6)
(5)
3 Second famous Argentinian ruled out as programme planner (9)
4 A staple crop – or fruit of a tree (5)
(8) 11 Person that’s feeble and
6 Wreath close to wall that is overturned (3)
Plan year off
12 Plan year off touring Thailand concerning remote travellers? (9)
KILLER Sudoku Pro
16 Fruit by the sound of it for duo (4)
departs (4)
Thailand concerning
travellers? (9) 16 Fruit by the sound of it for duo (4)
7 Academic, one scanning manuscripts for publisher (6)
8 Force store to relocate set of trees (6)
17 Medic in South American country close to main issue (8)
19 Polish chap and foil sadly missing fellow that’s calm and stoical (13)
Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box.
21 Priest I love before rector, head of holy order (5)
Medic in South American country close to main issue (8) 19 Polish chap and foil sadly missing fellow that’s calm and stoical (13)
11 Liberal enthralled by news extra affecting everywhere? (9)
13 Most pleasant desserts found in part of Australia (6)
Priest I love before rector, head of holy order (5)
14 Husband put in parting word in agitated state (6)
No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.
22 Good man cuts term of endearment showing candour (7)
Good man cuts term of endearment showing candour (7)
22 Good man cuts term of endearment showing candour (7)
15 Deputy with skill gets to quit (6)
18 What golf teacher might say in extempore dramatic performance (5)
20 See old card game (3)
2 By the sound of it, first person, truly attractive figure (6)
3 Second famous Argentinian ruled out as programme planner (9)
4 A staple crop – or fruit of a tree (5)
6 Wreath close to wall that is overturned (3)
7 Academic, one scanning manuscripts for publisher (6)
8 Force store to relocate set of trees (6)
11 Liberal enthralled by news extra affecting everywhere? (9)
13 Most pleasant desserts found in part of Australia (6)
14 Husband put in parting word in agitated state (6)
15 Deputy with skill gets to quit (6)
18 What golf teacher might say in extempore dramatic performance (5)
20 See old card game (3)
Help for firms to avoid cyber crime
CYBER
crime experts will reveal the latest online threat to businesses - and how they can protect themselves - at a series of lectures in Wiltshire.
Four talks, organised by the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust’s Stay Safe Online team, will be given by UK Finance’s fraud and cybercrime prevention manager Paul Maskall and Catriona Still, head of fraud prevention at UK Finance’s Dedicated Card and Payment Crime Unit.
Mr Maskall appears regularly on BBC Crimewatch Live, Rip Off Britain, and BBC Radio 1Xtra while Ms Still works with the UK banking industry.
The lectures will take place monthly at The Parade Cinema in Marlborough, beginning in February.
Toni Evans, the trust’s Stay Safe Online manager, said: “Our mission at the Bobby Van Trust is to do all we can to keep people safe from crime and this is the fastest growing crime we face. Paul and Catriona are acknowledged leaders in their field who will be talking about the latest trends and the psychological and technological tricks criminals are using.
“The threat to businesses and individuals from cyber criminals is evolving all the time and while they may think they are doing all they can to protect themselves, the frightening truth is that the fraudsters are always one step ahead.
“The UK Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024 revealed 50 per cent of UK businesses suffered a cyber-attack or security breach in the last year, with the average cost to remedy an attack coming in at £21,000.”
She said 560,000 new cyber threats are discovered daily and 81 per cent of all UK businesses who suffer a cyber security attack are SMEs.
The first one-hour lecture, on February 20, will look at the role technology plays in making businesses vulnerable, recognising and understanding threats, tricks used to manipulate and deceive and strategies to combat them.
The second, on March 20, will focus on how criminals are exploiting AI and deepfakes, how AI can exploit businesses’ online vulnerabilities and how to recognise an AI fraud.
The third lecture, on April 24, looks at the psychology of manipulation, how criminals use it to overcome victims’ concerns and keep them under their influence, together with strategies to prevent it. The lecture will also unpick a real-time manipulation to show how it plays out.
The final lecture on May 22 will feature case studies, including examining a real-world fraud case from beginning to end and analysing the specific techniques used
to exploit vulnerabilities.
Each lecture costs £35, include refreshments, and begins at 9.15am with a networking opportunity afterwards.
Participants who book all four lectures pay £30 for each one.
The charity’s Stay Safe Online volunteers carry out free home visits or group talks to anyone over 60, or over 18 if they have a registered disability, providing easy to follow guidance, help improve digital/cyber security awareness, offer cyber and scam prevention advice, signpost further advice and resources, provide support and reassurance and offer basic practical skills to enable people to check and understand privacy settings.
Ms Evans added: "Paul and Catriona will be sharing up to the minute information that is affecting thousands of businesses every day. They will provide real understanding of the way cyber criminals work and share some practical real world advice on how to guard against them.
"This is an invaluable opportunity for businesses to learn more about the very real threats that are out there."
Booking is essential as places are limited via wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk/future-events or on 01225 256867.
n For more about the work of the charity, visit wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk.
Catriona Still and Paul Maskall will be giving advice to companies at lectures in Wiltshire
Almost 100 arrests in December crackdown on driving offences
ALMOST
100 people were arrested during a monthlong drink and drug driving crackdown in Wiltshire.
Wiltshire Police ran its annual 'Don't Risk It' operation throughout December, urging drivers to plan their journeys in advance if they intended to consume alcohol or illegal drugs over the festive season.
Now, the force has revealed a total of 102 driving offences were recorded - with 96 people arrested.
"These arrests came about either as a result of officers proactively stopping vehicles after observing poor driving, reports from members of the public or minor collisions where the drivers were signed off fit to detain by the ambulance service," a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said.
Drink driving was the most common offence (45 arrests), they said, followed by drug driving (25 arrests), driving while unfit through drugs (11
arrests) and alcohol (five arrests).
A total of 11 people were arrested for failing to provide a specimen for analysis when suspected of drink/drug driving, while a further five were arrested for being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the legal limit for alcohol.
The number of arrests was higher than in 2023, when the total was 94.
Roads Policing Inspector Steve Jolly said: "I'd like to thank my officers as well as the other teams across the force who dedicated themselves to making Wiltshire's roads safer over the holiday period.
"It is concerning that people are still choosing to take the huge risk of driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. A momentary lapse in concentration while driving can cost a life.
"Our focus on targeting drink and drug drivers throughout the county has not
ended now that Christmas has passed. We encourage the public to report people they suspect are committing these offences to us - they will be dealt with robustly."
Wiltshire Police lists drink/ drug driving as one of the Fatal Five driving offences, the main contributing factors that cause serious crashes.
The Fatal Five are; Careless driving, drink and drug driving,
not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone, and speeding.
"Drivers who commit who commit one of these offences are far more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than those who do not," the spokesperson added.
Anyone who suspects someone of drink or drug driving can report it on 101, or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Drink and drug driving was among the 'fatal five' offences targeted during December
Recruitment Items for
HR Advisor
WAREHOUSE FULFILLMENT
part-time
HR Advisor part-time
full-time
Niwaki Ltd
Niwaki Ltd
15 Chaldicott Barns, Semley, SP7 9AW
15 Chaldicott Barns, Semley, SP7 9AW
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
+44 (0)1747 445 059
+44 (0)1747 445 059
www.niwaki.com
www.niwaki.com
We’re on the look out for a part-time HR advisor to provide HR support to our Niwaki team across the UK. Reporting to the COO, the role will be based at our Dorset HQ, and will oversee recruitment, HR documentation and processes, and provide support across the team.
We’re on the look out for a part-time HR advisor to provide HR support to our Niwaki team across the UK. Reporting to the COO, the role will be based at our Dorset HQ, and will oversee recruitment, HR documentation and processes, and provide support across the team.
We have an opportunity at Niwaki to join our Warehouse Team. This full-time position involves order fulfilment and warehouse duties, including stock management, unloading deliveries, and other general duties. The role may also include customer service, and opportunities to help out at shows, such as RHS Chelsea, open days etc.
You will be Level 3 CIPD qualified (at least) with great communication skills and a passion for working with people.
A team player, with good attention to detail, you will be positive, helpful, tidy and a good communicator. This is an active role, based at our HQ at Semley. Permanent contract, full-time hours (Mon to Fri), £21 - 24K. We encourage internal promotion to other areas of the business. Benefits: pension, discount, medical insurance, parking.
You will be Level 3 CIPD qualified (at least) with great communication skills and a passion for working with people.
If this sounds like you, please send your CV to careers@niwaki.com
If this sounds like you, please send your CV to careers@niwaki.com
To apply, email careers@niwaki.com and tell us more about your prior experience.
Police appeal after sheep put down following suspected dog attack
ASHEEP was put down after being injured in a suspected dog attack near Salisbury Racecourse.0
Officers from the Wiltshire Rural Crime Team are appealing for information after an injured Romney ewe was found close to the Old Shaftesbury Drove.
“The injuries to the ewe’s throat and mouth were so severe that it sadly had to be euthanised,” a police spokesperson said.
“Later that week, another ewe was found deceased with similar injuries, although we cannot say at this stage whether
the two incidents happened at the same time.
“Livestock worrying is a serious issue which greatly impacts farming and smallholding communities.
Emotionally and financially, livestock worrying can be devastating for those affected by it, and it can be avoided if dog owners act responsibly.”
n Officers are keen to hear from anyone who has information about possible dog attacks, as the area is popular with dog walkers, on 101, reference number 54240151189.
Home Euthanasia For Your Pet
Angel Paws is a small and independently run mobile veterinary service based in Shrewton in south Wiltshire which provides peaceful pet euthanasia in your own home. Operating within approximately 20 miles of Shrewton, Angel Paws enables pet owners to have loving and dignified pet euthanasia in the privacy, security and comfort of their own homes. Angel Paws also offers a wide selection of cremation and memorial options for your pet’s remains through our cremation partners.
In Trisha’s experience as a practicing veterinarian she always found that having your family pet put to sleep in your own home was far less stressful for the pet. It is also far more comforting for the pet owners and family involved in comparison to the standard method of having to take your pet to the veterinary clinic to be euthanised. Angel Paws is specifically and thoughtfully designed to change this experience by providing a personalised home visit service for pets and their devoted owners.
Compassionate Home Euthanasia Service For Your Beloved Pet
Saying goodbye to a cherished pet is one of life’s hardest moments. Angel Paws offers loving and dignified pet euthanasia in the privacy and comfort of your own home. Let your pet find peace surrounded by familiar faces and their favourite place. Trisha, a fully qualified veterinarian, ensures the utmost care and respect during your appointment.
One of the sheep, pictured inset and pixelated by us, injured in a suspected dog attack
The ewe was found near the Old Shaftesbury Drove
