Salisbury and Avon Gazette - Edition 46

WALKERS

What’s inside this issue…

01963 400186

01963 400186

07850 529937

Independent firms are ‘lifeblood’ of city say chiefs in month-long event

SALISBURY shoppers are being urged to support Salisbury’s independent businesses this month as part of an ongoing campaign to showcase the diverse range of traders in the city.

People are being encouraged to show their support for local independent businesses by prioritising them in their shopping and engaging in the City of Independents Campaign.

The month got underway with Indies Week, which ran between July 1 and 7, launching a rallying call for everyone to recognise the significance of independent retailers and their positive impact on the local economy.

Robin McGowan, chief executive of Salisbury Business Improvement District (BID), emphasised the importance of supporting independent businesses.

“Salisbury’s independent retailers are the lifeblood of our community,” she said.

“They offer a unique and diverse range of products and services, and by choosing

to shop local, we contribute to the sustainability and growth of our high street.

“Indies Week provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these businesses and our continuing City of Independents campaign will strive to showcase Salisbury

CCTV appeal after ‘incident’ in Shrewton

POLICE are keen to trace this person in connection with a ‘suspicious incident’ in Shrewton.

Officers are keen to trace them as they believe they may be able to help with enquiries regarding reports of an incident some time between 3pm and 4pm on Friday, June 28.

Anyone with any information should contact Wiltshire Police on 101, quoting reference number 54240076217.

as a thriving home of so many successful independents.”

Rachel Tribbeck, owner of H R Tribbeck & Son, who have been in business in Salisbury since 1905, is among the city’s indies.

“As an indie business owner in Salisbury, I am proud to be part of the City of Independents campaign,” she said.

“This initiative showcases the tremendous talent, creativity, and hard work that goes into running an independent business.

“By supporting our local independents, we not only invest in our community but also ensure the longevity and success of unique enterprises that make Salisbury truly special.”

Residents and visitors are also being encouraged to follow the trail of handpainted shop windows. See experiencesalisbury.co.uk/explore/yourcity-of-independents/indies-window-trail.

Pure Comforts is part of the window trail

Picture: Experience Salisbury

Supercars rev up for Stars Appeal

ACHARITY

road run featuring an array of classic and modern cars has celebrated its “most successful” event to date – raising over £13,000 for the Salisbury Hospital Stars Appeal.

Boys’ Treasured Toys took place last on June 25 and was attended by a record 160 people, in 75 cars.

Drivers turned out in a range of vehicles from Minis to McLarens and Bentleys to Bugattis.

Money raised will go towards the £1million the Stars Appeal aims to raise this year for projects including six highdefinition video scopes to help diagnose head and neck cancer more quickly, costing £115,000, and £50,000 to provide 36 ‘by your side’ sleeper chairs so that vulnerable patients and those at the end of their lives can have a loved one stay by their side in comfort.

The event’s participants were welcomed to Wilton House by Stars Appeal president, the Earl of Pembroke, and enjoyed breakfast before setting off on a 100-mile route around the Wiltshire countryside. During speeches prior to setting off the

participants heard about the work of the charity and the difference it makes to patients at Salisbury District Hospital from Ear, Nose and Throat Consultant and Stars Appeal Ambassador, Mr Simon Dennis.

Patient Ambassador Colin Ford, who has been previously diagnosed with three separate cancers, described how projects funded by the charity, from state-of-the-art equipment to free wifi, helped him during his treatment.

The Boys’ Treasured Toys road run route took participants to Bradley House, the family home of the Duke and Duchess of Somerset, for a picnic lunch, before finishing at West Barn Lodge where they were hosted by the Hitchings family and enjoyed tea and cake.

had by all, it was a most enjoyable, relaxed day in beautifully stunning locations.

“This has been our most successful event both in terms of guest numbers and money raised. People have been so incredibly generous and were seriously touched by the emotional stories they heard from Ambassadors Mr Dennis and Colin Ford who both expressed how every pound raised makes a difference to patients, their families and staff at the hospital.

Drivers and passengers made donations to take part in the event, which was organised by Louise Hall, Matthew Pickford and Nick Combes.

Lead organiser and Stars Appeal Fundraising Committee member, Louise Hall, pictured inset, said: “A fun day was

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in making the event such a success.”

ENT Consultant and Stars Appeal Ambassador, Mr Simon Dennis, added: “Every day in my work I see the incredible difference that money raised at events like this make to patients across the hospital.

“I would like to thank Louise, her co-organisers, and all the participants and hosts for raising this wonderful sum that will help our charity do even more for the benefit of local people in hospital.”

n Pictures by Spencer Mulholland

Salisbury shopkeeper in court over

£100,000 of illegal tobacco products

ASALISBURY

shopkeeper has been handed a suspended prison sentence for selling illegal tobacco.

Wiltshire Council’s Trading Standards team seized more than £100,000 worth of tobacco products after a raid at the Bucuresti Mini Market, in Brown Street, run by Amang Mohammed.

At Salisbury Crown Court on Thursday (July 4), the 29-yearold, of Southampton, was handed a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

He was also ordered to attend 10 rehabilitation requirement days.

The tobacco supplied by Mohammed was not labelled with the required health warnings, was not in standardised packaging and the

majority was also found to be counterfeit, the court was told.

Mohammed had previously pleaded guilty to 14 offences relating to the tobacco.

Cllr Dominic Muns, cabinet member for environment, said:

“Our trading standards team is doing all they can to protect our residents from harm by prosecuting these traders and stopping these illegal sales from taking place.

“In addition, counterfeit tobacco does not always meet the requirements to selfextinguish and cigarettes of this type have previously been linked to several deaths through house fires.

“It is not regulated or manufactured to the same standards as normal tobacco, often being found to contain higher levels of harmful substances, as well as chemicals

Trading Standards officers seized tobacco products worth an estimated £105,000

which are not normally permitted.

“I hope that the sentences that have been imposed today send a clear message that we are taking these types of businesses seriously and sales of products such as these will not be tolerated in Wiltshire.”

Illegal tobacco had previously been seized from Bucuresti Mini Market in 2020, for which Mr Mohammed had received a written warning.

Officers raided the premises again in April 2023, where

illegal tobacco was again found to be on display and hidden on the premises.

Officers found a set of car keys in a nearby wheelie bin for a vehicle belonging to Mohammed. More tobacco was found within the vehicle, together with a key for a storage unit in Southampton.

After entry was forced to the unit, a further large amount of tobacco was found. The value of the tobacco seized during this raid was put at around £105,000.

CCTV appeal after Champagne stolen

DO you recognise the person pictured right?

Police would like to speak to him in connection with a shoplifting incident at Waitrose, in The Furlong, Ringwood. The incident saw Champagne worth around £860 stolen some time between 10.05am and 10.10am on Thursday, June 20.

Officers are keen to speak to the person pictured, who is described as; White, around 45 years old, around 5ft 8ins tall and bald.

He was wearing glasses, a flat cap, white T-shirt, brown blazer and blue jeans.

“We believe the man in this image can help us with our investigation and would urge him, or anyone who knows his identity, to get in touch with us,” a Hampshire Police spokesperson said.

“Also, if you witnessed the incident, saw anything suspicious in the area at the time, or have any CCTV, mobile phone, dash cam or doorbell camera footage which could aid our investigation, please contact us.”

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting incident number 44240260204, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Tory John Glen tops the polls in Salisbury - but with a majority slashed from

19,000 to 4,000

SALISBURY

has voted to return MP

John Glen to parliament - but with a much-reduced majority.

The Conservative, a former Paymaster General and First Secretary to the Treasury, triumphed in the general election ballot on Thursday, July 4.

He received a total of 17,110 votes, with Labour’s Matt Aldridge coming in second place, with 13,303 votes.

The result meant Mr Glen’s majority was reduced from more than 19,000 in 2019, to under 4,000.

Speaking after the result was announced, Mr Glen acknowledged that despite his victory in Salisbury, nationally the country had voted “for change”, with Labour securing a landslide.

He congratulated the Salisbury Labour Party and vowed to take a “constructive and collaborative approach to public service”.

“I will continue to work as hard as I can,” he added. “I will support what I can in the new government.

“I will scrutinise carefully what I cannot

John Glen has been returned to parliament, along with Andrew Murrison, below

support but I will always remember that I am here to serve the people of Salisbury and I thank you for the privilege of representing you again.”

On Monday, July 8, Mr Glen made his way back to Westminster, where he was set to be sworn in for the new parliamentary session.

“It’s back to Westminster today, swearing in tomorrow and I look forward to being back in Salisbury on Thursday night for surgeries and whatever is needed,” he said.

Meanwhile, in South West Wiltshire, Andrew Murrison was re-elected for the Conservatives, with a majority of just over 3,000, down from almost 22,000 in 2019.

The full results:

Salisbury

Matt Aldridge - Labour Party: 13,303

Victoria Charleston - Liberal Democrats: 11,825

John Glen - Conservative Party: 17,110

Chris Harwood - Climate Party: 127

Julian Malins - Reform UK: 5,235

Barney Norris - Green Party: 2,115

King Arthur Pendragon - Independent: 458 Turnout: 70.12%

South West Wiltshire

Evelyn Akoto - Labour Party: 12,374

Thomas Culshaw - Independent: 441

Garry Irvin - Reform UK: 7,840

Andrew Murrison - Conservative Party: 15,617

Bret Palmer - Liberal Democrats: 7,205

James Ward - Independent: 448

Fay Whitfield - Green Party: 2,243 Turnout: 63.41%

Road closure this week as £3.2m gateway project continues

ABUSY

city route will be closed this week as part of the Fisherton Gateway revamp works.

North Street will be shut from where it joins with Fisherton Street from today (July 15) until Friday (July 19) as work continues on the £3.2 million improvements scheme being carried out.

The short section of road will be closed 24 hours a day for drainage works to prepare for the installation of a raised table at this junction as part of the scheme.

Temporary measures include: North Street will temporarily become two-way to ensure access for residents, businesses and customers.

The parking bay outside 26 North Street will be suspended

to make it easier for vehicles to turn around at the vehicular entrance to Jubilee Court.

Vehicles exiting St Clements Mews will be directed to turn left only to minimise further disruption.

The Fisherton Gateway scheme is part of a £9 million project using cash from the government’s Future High Streets Fund.

It aims to enhance the road network and public spaces along Fisherton Street in a bid to make it easier, safer and more convenient to travel by foot into the city centre, said Cllr Nick Holder, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways, Street Scene and flooding.

“Creating vibrant and well-connected communities is a key priority for us,” he said.

“We are pleased to see these improvements taking shape and more areas opening up for public use.

“We appreciate the closure of this junction may cause some disruption for local residents and businesses and apologise for any inconvenience.

“Every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum wherever possible, and all local amenities in this area will remain open and accessible

during the construction period.”

Further overnight road closures are planned from 8pm to 6am from August 5 to 7, to allow kerb installation work to take place in Fisherton Street. And the road will be closed overnight again from 8pm to 6am from August 12 to 23 for resurfacing work.

For more about the scheme, visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/ article/6053/Future-HighStreets-Fund-Salisbury.

AUGUST GETAWAYS BY COACH

FRIDAY 9th AUGUST SUNDAY 11th AUGUST

11th AUGUST

16th AUGUST

19th AUGUST

MONDAY 19th AUGUST

MONDAY 26th AUGUST

New look for relocated allotment site thanks to Fred’s mural

ANEW colourful mural greets gardeners as they arrive at the new home of Salisbury allotments.

The Allotments and Gardens Association Salisbury (AGAS) - and its shop - had to relocate to a new home at Fisherton Farm Allotments due to the creation of the Salisbury River Park.

And to make visitors feel at home, over the weekend of June 22 and 23, artist Fred Fieber got to work on creating an image on the side of a shipping container on the site.

Fresh from creating an artwork at the Salisbury Coach Park, Studio Response was

approached to create something for the allotment site.

And city artist Fred said he was “delighted” to get involved and created a mural including vegetables, with bands of colour in the background from the River Park colour palette.

The palette was created by pupils from South Wilts Grammar School, working with local artist Zac Newham, and is inspired by the nature of the park.

People were invited to come along and lend a hand to paint the container with Fred, and also to see the AGAS Scarecrow

competition.

Funding for the mural was provided as part of the Salisbury River Park project, which is being delivered by the Environment Agency in partnership with Salisbury City Council and Wiltshire Council.

The Young Gallery in Salisbury Library currently has an exhibition about the new artworks for the River Park.

AGAS are always looking for new members and volunteers. For more information, log on to www. salisburyallotments.co.uk.

Fred Fieber hard at work on the mural at the allotments’ new home

Picture: Studio Response

New roof for Crematorium

ADAMAGED roof at Salisbury Crematorium will soon be repaired as part of a £175,000 project.

The current roof at the premises, in Barrington Road, is constructed out of mineral felt, which has a life expectancy of between 10 and 15 years.

Now, work is set to take place to install a new, more durable material known as Alwitra Evalon VSK Membrane, which has an expected service life of 40 years.

Felt roofs are known for leaking and splitting at the seams, as has been the case at the crematorium.

To carry out the work, the customer-facing side of the venue will need to be closed in August and September.

Ticket machines

WORK is underway to replace ticket machines in Wiltshire car parks.

Wiltshire Council is investing £380,000 in new machines at sites it runs across the county.

And the project is underway, with machines in Marlborough the first to be installed.

Salisbury City Council said details and dates of the closure will be published as soon as possible. During the work, no services will take place on site, though cremators will still be operational. Services

will instead be held at the Guildhall on a Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Tuesdays are to be excluded because of the inability to safely and easily access the site on market day, the council said.

The works are proposed for August and September because of the expected favourable weather and historically these are quieter months in terms of bookings.

It comes after Salisbury City Council approved the use of up to £175,000 of capital funds to replace the failing existing roof that covers the administrative and support areas of the building.

The cost of the works will be met from some of the capital receipt of £338,000 received from the sale of 47 Blue Boar Row.

The new payment machines will give customers the choice of paying for their parking using cash or contactless with a card or mobile device.

People can also continue to pay using the MiPermit app or by text.

The new machines are compliant with the Equality Act 2010 and all locations have been reviewed and ramps installed where needed.

Advertisement Feature

UNIQUELY YOURS

Platinum Skies pledges over £10k to Help for Heroes with the opening of 21 luxury apartments at Finch House in Salisbury.

After a three-year restoration, the iconic 19th century Grade II-listed Finch House in Salisbury has been fully returned to its original grandeur and transformed into a selection of homes, each one an exceptional blend of luxury and affordability.

This marks the completion of the final phase of Platinum Skies’ redevelopment of the wider Old Manor Hospital site, aptly now named Chapters.

In appreciation of Salisbury’s military connections and the veteran community at Chapters, affordable retirement living brand Platinum Skies has partnered with armed forces charity, Help for Heroes, to raise funds and awareness. Platinum Skies has pledged to donate over £10,000 to the charity from the sales of Finch House retirement living apartments.

Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community, supporting veteran families from any branch of the UK military irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians (and their families) who worked under the command of UK Armed Forces. The charity has already supported more than 31,000 people.

There are many challenges that can make transitioning from the military to civilian life tough. Help for Heroes provides veterans with tailored and holistic support with their physical and mental health, welfare, and social needs.

Mark Edwards, CEO of Platinum Skies, said, “We are extremely proud to be a community partner with Help for Heroes, as Platinum Skies’ ethos is based around supporting individuals during their retirement in an environment where they can live life to the fullest.”

The launch of Finch House was celebrated on 15th May by a gathering of military Veterans from the community at Chapters, Spencer Mulholland from Fisherton Historian Society, and special guest Dolly O’Connor, now 95 years old, who worked at Old Manor Hospital when she was 18.

John Carpenter, Community Fundraising Manager for Help for Heroes, and Veteran Megan Lloyd (with army veteran dog Denver!), cut the ribbon with Dolly to mark the launch of the unique apartments at Finch House.

Heather Powell, Help for Heroes’ Head of Communities Events and Trading, said: “Our vital work with veterans – and their families – depends on the generosity of organisations like this and the public at large. As a caring organisation itself, Platinum Skies understands why we do what we do and how we go about it.”

To find out more about the restoration of Finch House in Salisbury, visit finchhousesalisbury.co.uk

Revamped A360 open after closure to start Stonehenge project work

PART of the A360 which was closed in April as work on the proposed tunnel near Stonehenge, has re-opened.

The route, from The Avenue to the A303, was shut to enable Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) provide power for the future construction of the planned billion-pound tunnel scheme.

The project has involved digging a trench along the road to install cabling, before SSEN reinstates the surface before the road can reopen.

On Saturday, July 6, it welcomed back traffic, with Wiltshire Council taking the opportunity of the closure to improve the road.

While traffic was barred form the stretch, council contractors repainted white lines, fixed

potholes, improved drainage, repaired kerbs, worked on the verges and replaced signs along the A360.

The council is also planning to resurface and repaint the white lines at Stoford crossroads, but the work has been delayed by rain and will be rescheduled in the coming weeks.

Cllr Nick Holder, cabinet member for highways, said:

“This is a great example of partnership working, and I’d like to thank both SSEN and National Highways for working with us to enable our teams to make these improvements to the road.

“This project has caused

some disruption for the local community, but by completing this work, including filling potholes and repairing kerbs, at the same time, we have helped to minimise future disruption for local people, meeting our Business Plan commitment to have well-connected communities.

“The road has reopened in a better state than it was when it

was closed.”

Galina Katrandzhieva, project manager for SSEN, said: “SSEN is always keen to work in partnership with local organisations to ensure that different sectors’ projects can be carried out in tandem - reducing any future potential disruption.

“This project was carefully planned and scheduled to minimise disturbance, while maximising safety for engineers working on the road and for those accessing homes and businesses in the vicinity of the works.

“We would like to thank residents, business owners and visitors to the area for their patience and understanding while this work was carried out.”

Seven new homes for families in need planned for former garage site

How the new blocks of homes could look (above and bottom and middle, below) on the former garage site, pictured top, below Pictures: Agile/Wiltshire Council

SEVEN affordable, lowcarbon, modular homes intended for use by families ‘on the verge of homelessness’ could be built in Salisbury if plans are approved.

The scheme, submitted by Wiltshire Council, would see a former garage site at 42-50 Rambridge Crescent, developed.

The properties, which would be built in two blocks, have been designed by Agile using Passivhaus principles - widely seen as the ‘gold standard’ of energy efficient homes - using insulation and air-tight design to keen energy use to a minimum.

Aimed at families requiring affordable, temporary accommodation, the save Wiltshire Council money, the application said.

“There is a need to meet significant housing demand, while also dealing with the challenges of a climate and ecological crisis,” it said.

“A growing element of housing demand is for affordable, high quality, temporary accommodation.

“At present, the council has to find and fund that

accommodation, often utilising private rented housing.

“This has a significant and unsustainable impact on the council’s revenue budget. Consequently, the council is seeking to expand its housing stock to meet demand.”

The first block proposed for the site would contain a two-bedroom property on the ground floor, with two one-bed flats above.

Block B would consist of four one-bed flats, with a shared access staircase between them.

“Both blocks have front doors and primary aspect from habitable rooms overlooking the parking court,” the application went on.

“A generous porch covers all entrances, ramps and steps creating a ‘stoop’ to activate the frontage.

“Ground floor homes have small private amenity spaces and landscaping is arranged to ensure there is reasonable privacy between external walkways and habitable rooms.”

Outside the homes, the plan said landscaping “will improve biodiversity and take a lighttouch approach”.

“New materials used will be sourced locally and recycled where possible,” it said.

“With the aim of using as little virgin material as possible and sending as little as possible to landfill.”

The application added: “Boundaries to the site will be repaired with new fencing/ gates where needed and reinforced with planting of native hedges and trees.

“Biodiversity will be encouraged with more greenery and habitats developed to encourage species to move in, such as bee, bird and bat boxes included in the cladding of the buildings.”

For more details, and to comment on the plans, log on to wiltshire.gov.uk and search for application reference PL/2024/05712.

Care home garden party defies the British summer for a sunny outlook!

RAIN

failed to dampen spirits at a Salisbury garden party.

Staff, residents, relatives and neighbours were welcomed to Milford House Care Home on July 6 for a celebration of the summer in Salisbury.

Due to the UK weather, wind and showers meant it was not possible to party in the garden, but the garden was brought inside with flower-themed decorations, table covers and posies picked from the home’s garden on the tables.

General manager, Aga Musial, said: “Thank you to everyone who came along to our Garden Party. With the fabulous Cosmic Sparkle entertaining us the dining room was packed with residents, visitors and smiles throughout the afternoon as everyone danced, clapped and sang along.

“We also had some stalls dotted around the home and congratulations to all our raffle winners.

“Somehow, in amongst all the activity, we managed to fit in a delicious cream tea and we must say a huge thank you to all the

in-house teams and volunteers who helped to make this a truly special Milford afternoon despite the challenges presented by the weather.”

Resident, Ralph Ince, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed it. The weather did its best to throw a spanner in the works but staff did a great job, not just on the day bringing everything

This Summer @ This Summer @

Thursday 1 August, 19:00 A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare’s funniest, most magical comedy of all! This hilarious adaptation sees the fantastical characters brought vividly to life.

Peter Pan A Magical Open-Air Musical

Filled with catchy music, heaps of audience interaction, and a laugh-a-minute script.

Suitable for ages 4+

Sunday 11 August, 17.30

Gilbert & Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore

If you like your operas with a bit of tongue-in-cheek humour, you’ll love HMS Pinafore. Will love prevail? Climb aboard to find out!

Weds 28 August, 19:30

Art Talk: Japanese Woodblock Prints

Art historian Monika Hinkel will introduce the iconic Japanese printmakers whose works were collected by Sir Edward Heath.

Thurs 19 September, 14:30

Dilton Marsh man, 57, jailed for 28 years over decades of child abuse

DAVID

Hedges has been jailed for 28 years in prison for abusing girls –including one under 13 – over decades.

The 57-year-old, from Dilton Marsh, was previously found guilty of three counts of sexual intercourse with a girl under 13 and four counts of indecent assault against the same girl on no fewer than 17 occasions.

His abuse was perpetrated over several years throughout 90s and 2000s.

On Tuesday, July 2, at Salisbury Crown Court, Hedges was sentenced to 28 years imprisonment, plus a further year on licence.

He will be required to serve a minimum of two-thirds of the sentence before being eligible for parole, when his case will be evaluated.

In addition to the custodial sentence, he is also subject to the requirements of being a registered sex offender, conditions of a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) and conditions of a restraining order to prohibit future contact with children indefinitely.

Det Con Graham Mansell, of Wiltshire Police, said: “I welcome this sentencing, as it reflects the seriousness of these offences and the impact they have had on the victims.

“While custodial sentences ultimately end, longer term protection is provided by the orders which further prohibit contact with children in the future.

“This case involves the most abhorrent sexual abuse of very young children lasting for several years. Steps taken in 2005 prevented further abuse, but there wasn’t enough evidence to pursue a prosecution.

“The investigation was reopened in 2017 after the victims bravely came forward and gave their evidence to detectives in the child abuse investigation team.

“Despite the abuse suffered, the victims were able to find the strength and courage to give their accounts which ultimately led to their abuser being found guilty.

“When the victims were able to give their evidence, the investigation could be pursued and their abuser prosecuted.”

Det Con Mansell thanked the victims for their “incredible bravery” in coming forward and recounting “the most distressing and traumatic incidents” in court.

“Their ability to do this made it possible to achieve a successful prosecution, resulting in today’s sentence,” he added.

“This could not have been achieved without their resilience and endurance. Without their evidence it would have remained impossible to prosecute their abuser.

“I’d also like to thank the members of the jury, who have to face the distressing evidence of the case and without whom offenders like Hedges could not be brought to justice.

“I hope this case can inspire confidence that victims of non-recent sexual abuse will be believed, the police will be tenacious in the pursuit of justice and will investigate thoroughly.

“Where there is sufficient evidence a prosecution will be pursued.

“Thankfully, crimes of this nature are rare, but it serves as an important reminder that there are a small minority of people who seek to sexually exploit and abuse children, even very young children.

“Wiltshire Police will continue to do everything within its power to bring child abusers to justice and safeguard children and victims of abuse.

“I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who may have been a victim of sexual abuse to report it to police.

“We will investigate, provide you with the full support available, and do all that we can to bring such offenders to justice.”

To report sexual abuse, contact police on 101.

Victims can also seek support and counselling from the Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 01793 781916.

Dyson jobs in Wiltshire under threat after review

WORKERS at vacuum cleaner giant Dyson’s Wiltshire plant are facing uncertainty after the firm announced around 1,000 UK jobs are set to be axed.

The news comes after a review carried out ahead of a global restructuring of the business.

Staff, including at Dyson’s Wiltshire base at Malmesbury, were told of the plan on Tuesday morning, which will see the company’s UK workforce cut by around a third.

Workers at Dyson sites in Bristol and London are also under threat as part of the review, which began before the general election.

Chief executive, Hanno Kirner, said the decision to cut jobs was “incredibly painful” and promised the company would support those affected.

: “We have grown quickly and, like all companies, we review our global structures from time to time to ensure we are prepared for the future.

“As such, we are proposing changes to our organisation, which may result in redundancies.

“Dyson operates in increasingly fierce and competitive global markets, in which the pace of innovation and change is only accelerating. We know we always need to be entrepreneurial and agile.”

The company was founded by inventor Sir James Dyson in Wiltshire in 1991.

It’s UK facilities are largely

centred on research, development and design of products, with items largely manufactured abroad.

Malmesbury will continue to be home to the Dyson Institute, an engineering hub where 160 undergraduates work on Dyson projects three days a week, and study for two.

Sir James is one of Britain’s richest people, with an estimated fortune of £20.8bn, according to the Sunday Times Rich List.

David Hedges has been jailed for 28 years

Picture: Wiltshire Police

Thousands Walk for Wards in aid

WALKERS

turned out in force to show their support for Salisbury District Hospital’s Stars Appeal during the annual Walk for Wards event.

More than 2,000 people took part in the event, at Wilton House on Sunday, July 7, which could raise as much as £100,000 for the cause.

Money raised will go towards the £1 million Stars Appeal, which aims to raise more than £100,000 this year to fund new equipment, enhancements to buildings, and ongoing projects supporting patients at the hospital.

After some of the walkers shared their reasons for taking

part, Martin Starke, from Greatest Hits Radio, led the countdown before Dr Tracey Parker, a consultant on the Pembroke Cancer Unit and Stars Appeal Ambassador, along with Stars Appeal president the Earl of Pembroke, cut the ribbon to get the walk underway.

Dr Parker said: “It was magnificent to see so many people at Wilton House for Walk for Wards.

“Incredibly, the wet weather didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits, and the desire to support our lovely hospital was as strong as ever.

“It was, as always, very emotional to see the little

messages affixed to our supporter’s shirts, sharing why they are walking.

“The money raised will go towards a range of fantastic Stars Appeal projects, benefitting thousands of local people in our hospital. We cannot thank our walkers enough for their unwavering support. It’s simply amazing.”

Participants were walking 3k, 5k, or 10k to thank the hospital for the care they or their family have received across various wards and departments, with some dedicating their walk in memory of a friend, parent, sibling or child.

Francesca and Tim Evans

were walking in support of the Neonatal Unit, which cared for their now eight-month-old daughter Margaux, who was born two months premature last October and spent a month in hospital.

During this time Francesca was able to stay with Margaux in the Stars Appeal parents’ accommodation.

Francesca said: “We wanted to thank all the people on the Neonatal Unit. I felt so lucky that I could stay on the ward with Margaux the whole time.

“Being able to be with her felt like I could be a mum from the very beginning, without the Stars Appeal it wouldn’t have been possible.

Pictures by Simon Ward, Spencer Mulholland and Donald Capewell

of Stars Appeal

“It was a lovely walk and so fantastic to see parts of the Wilton Estate that we never get to see.”

Andy Hockey, who had to have his leg amputated after being diagnosed with sepsis, took on the 5k walk to say thank you for the care he received on Odstock Ward.

It was the longest distance he had walked on his prosthetic leg and after finishing, he said: “I’m proud I did it. It was the toughest challenge I’ve had since my amputation. It means so much to me to be able to do this because of everything the hospital has done for me.”

Walk for Wards is sponsored by Salisbury Reds and all the

routes were marshalled by a team which included local Rotary Club members, led by David Huckfield.

Helena Sinclair, from the Stars Appeal, added: “We want to say a massive thank you to everyone who took part in Walk for Wards. We also want to thank our hosts Lord and Lady Pembroke and the team at the Wilton Estate, our principal sponsors Salisbury Reds, David Huckfield and the Rotary Club marshals for their support, and all our wonderful volunteers.

“We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for our 20th Walk for Wards event.”

For more on appeal, see www.starsappeal.org/our-work.

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Local Flavours

Support local to savour the flavours of local food and drink producers

Fisherton Mill -

Award-winning Gallery,

Cafe and Studio

Advertising feature

There’s no better place in Salisbury to enjoy great food, art and shopping than in the relaxed surroundings of Fisherton Mill.

It’s award-winning Gallery Café is the only Salisbury eatery to be included in the Good Food Guide 2024, serving mouthwatering treats, delicious lunches and homemade cakes with regularly changing menus and an imaginative selection of drinks.

Fisherton Mill is also the largest independent art gallery in the South West, displaying work by over 200 artists. With on-site boutique studios and a programme of interesting workshops, it’s a creative haven just a stone’s throw from the city centre.

Shroton Fair Gin® in top 5% in the World!

Advertising feature

Shroton Fair Gin® has just won an impressive Gold Medal at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition, scoring 95/100 points for their signature spiced Gin. Only 50 out of 1,000 Gins across the globe can claim this award, placing this local Dorset distillery in the top 5% of Gins worldwide!

The winning Gin, Zummit Dry®, impressed the judges, who described it as:

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Anger over Cathedral Close plans amid “years of neglect and decay”

CAMPAIGNERS

have launched a fight to ensure that the listed buildings and landscape of the medieval Salisbury Cathedral Close are saved from “many years of neglect and decay”.

The area is subject to two planning applications, which would see the creation of a permanent car park at the site and the conversion of Leaden Hall into an office.

but calls have been made for the area to undergo repairs before any work can be considered.

The Salisbury Cathedral Close Preservation Society, which objects to the plans along with other consultees, described the proposals as “insensitive”, as they say the setting of the cathedral has been left to deteriorate over the years.

Salisbury Cathedral Close is one of the largest and most complete cathedral precincts in the country.

Amended plans to convert the temporary car park into permanent parking, as well as installing electric vehicle charging points and covered bicycle parking were submitted by Oakley Planning & Conservation on behalf of the Chapter Officer.

Formerly tennis courts, the plot has been used as a car park for visitors to Salisbury Cathedral since 1996, with temporary planning permission.

Alongside this, plans were submitted for a change of use of Leaden Hall from education to offices and meeting rooms which would also see the demolition of a conservatory on the west side of the building and the creation of a central archive hub for the cathedral.

The Salisbury Close Preservation Society is concerned views and buildings in the Close are now at further risk of degradation and development due to the plans.

A spokesperson said: “Over the last 30 years, the Cathedral Chapter has carried out a magnificent restoration of Salisbury Cathedral but unfortunately the setting of the cathedral, described by Historic England as ‘probably the finest in England’, has been allowed to deteriorate and is now under threat from two insensitive planning applications lodged on behalf of the Cathedral Chapter.”

They added: “The Close at Salisbury Cathedral has inspired generations of artists and writers, perhaps the greatest of whom was John Constable whose paintings of the cathedral and nearby water meadows rank amongst the greatest assets of our cultural history.

“It is these precious views and buildings that are now at further risk of degradation and development.”

The society said people need to encourage Wiltshire Council, councillors, and planners and conservation officers to fully appreciate and understand the historic and aesthetic the importance of the Close.

Historic England has said it

would support the full re-use of Leaden Hall, which has been vacant for the past seven years, but it has raised concerns over the lack of maintenance to the site which has led to “severe damage”.

The organisation, which submitted a comment on the plans on Wiltshire Council’s website, said: “We would request that immediate works are carried out, independently of this scheme, to repair and restore the unacceptable levels of damage we have seen and prevent further loss of fabric and structural integrity.”

The Georgian Group, the national charity for the preservation of Georgian architecture in England and Wales, raised similar concerns and decided to object to the plans.

The group said: “This (the

condition of the Grade 1 listed building’s fabric) has been allowed to deteriorate to an alarming degree: on our site visit (February 20) we saw severe damage caused by water ingress on the south side of the building with widespread rot of timbers, damage to historic features and fittings, growth of vegetation, and damaged plasterwork.

“A large section of the drawing room ceiling has collapsed entirely.”

The Group added: “The failure to prevent or address damage of this kind to a Grade 1 listed building is wholly unacceptable.”

Plans for the car park can be found by searching PL/2023/09615 on Wiltshire Council’s website and the plans for the hall can be found by searching PL/2024/00720.

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Well-known city butcher looks to secure permission for Maltings unit

ASALISBURY

butcher has applied for planning permission for his portable sales unit - but is unconvinced it is needed.

Planning firm Brimble Lea has submitted an application to Wiltshire Council on behalf of Luke Kerley - known as The Salisbury Butcher - for the portable unit outside Robert Dyas, in The Maltings.

The plan requests a change of use for the site, to allow the portable unit, pictured, to be stationed there.

However, the application says it may not be needed.

“This application is being submitted at the request of the Council’s Planning Enforcement Department, who allege the

proposal is in breach of planning control,” it said.

“There is, however, a possibility that the proposal does not involve development requiring planning permission because the land already benefits from retail use and therefore does not involve a material change of use, and the stationing of a portable unit does not involve operational development.

“This application is therefore being submitted on a “without prejudice” basis and the lawfulness will be considered further, should the application be refused.”

Mr Kerley, who has lived in Salisbury all his life, and worked for Pitchetts Family

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Butchers in the city for around 25 years before starting his own business.

The application says the portable unit is “in-keeping with the character of the shopping centre”, and that it “would be perverse and unreasonable to

allege that the retail use and unit is out-of-keeping in a shopping centre”.

For more details on the application, and to comment, log on to Wiltshire.gov.uk and search for application reference PL/2024/04179.

Third arrest over paint attack at Stonehenge

A THIRD person has been arrested in connection with the incident at Stonehenge in June when a number of the historic stones were sprayed with an orange substance.

A man in his 30s from Essex was arrested on Sunday, June 30.

Two others were previously arrested in connection with the incident – a man in his 70s and a woman in her 20s – both of whom remain on bail while police continue their investigation.

Environmental campaign group Just Stop Oil said it was behind the act.

The environmental campaign group said the activists had taken action at around noon to demand the government “sign up to a legally-binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030”.

The action came the day before thousands descended on the World Heritage Site to celebrate the Summer Solstice.

Teacher leads by example with run

THEhead of sport at a Salisbury school led by example when taking on a gruelling run to raise money for new facilities.

Demian Griffiths, of Bishop Wordsworth’s Grammar School, ran a marathon distance of 12 laps of the infamous Town Path - each lap is 2.2 miles or 3.54km - to raise money for the school’s Pitch In campaign.

It is raising money for a much-needed new artificial grass pitch (AGP) and cricket nets at Britford Lane.

He was joined by more than 150 people - including students, parents and governors - in his effort, and has so far raised more than £3,000 for the appeal.

A school spokesperson said: “Thanks to 160 of our amazing community of students, parents, governors and alumni who joined him for a lap or more.

“And thank you to everyone who has sponsored our runners so far. Can you help us hit £4,000?”

The AGP will include a netball court, a five-a-side football pitch, and space for team sports skills training including hockey, lacrosse and rugby.

“The new facility will allow all 1,200 pupils to have enjoyment and benefit from exercise on a surface which can be used throughout the year and provide an alternative all-weather facility for when the sports hall is in use,” a spokesperson added.

“Being able to host several different PE activities on one area will have big space saving benefits for the school whilst extending the programme of sports which we can offer.

“We will also have the opportunity to open up the facility to local community groups.

“Thank you for your support.”

Head of sport at Bishop Wordsworth’s, Demian Griffiths, was supported through his challenge by students, staff and families, below

Tutor scoops top award for efforts with

Wiltshire’s adult learners

ATUTOR

who travels the length of breadth of Wiltshire to support disadvantaged adult learners has been recognised with a national award.

Family and community learning tutor for Wiltshire Council, Jenny Ham, was recognised for her work at the annual Festival of Learning Awards.

The awards ceremony took place in London on July 3.

Judges recognised her work building relationships with learners at Wiltshire Council’s Family and Community Learning service.

Her learners range from newly-arrived adults who are looking to develop their language skills, adults facing barriers such as poor mental or physical health and low confidence, to parents and carers (and their children) who wish to build their skills so that they can better support their child’s learning at home.

She teaches a range of courses throughout the week, travelling to her learners to teach them in schools and community buildings, and specialises in delivering English for Speakers of Other Languages, English and Wellbeing courses.

“I was inspired to teach from an early age as my mother was a teacher,” she said.

“I gained my ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) double degree in 1998, and now work full-time at Wiltshire Family and Community Learning.

“We teach disadvantaged adults and occasionally their children too. I love teaching, English, ESOL and wellbeing.

“I’m motivated by my learners, seeing them learn, progress and achieve. When you can make a difference to people’s lives, there is no better feeling.

“It is a privilege to work with the diversity of adults and families that I meet which include asylum seekers, Ukrainian guests, Afghan resettlers and Wiltshire residents.

“My teaching isn’t all about the knowledge that I share with learners. It is important to understand their journey in life and to support them to dream as big as they can.

“It is also important that they trust me so that we can work together towards the best outcome for them, whether it be employment, volunteering, further learning or any other goal they may have.”

Laura Mayes, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said:

“Jenny’s commitment to her learning and development shines strongly.

“She uses the knowledge and skills that she gains to inform her teaching and the support that she gives her learners.

“Jenny puts her heart and soul into teaching, and we are very proud of her and what she supports her learners to achieve.”

Comments from Jenny’s learners included:

“Jenny is a wonderful, inspiring, supportive tutor. She makes learning fun and helped me feel safe, which is vitally important for someone like me who suffers from anxiety. She was always patting me on the back and helping me believe in my abilities.” - Sarah E

“Jenny is a wonderful teacher because she will go the extra mile. If you still don’t understand, she will not stop

until she has found a way for you to learn. Without having Jenny, I wouldn’t be able to help my children.” - Claire

“Jenny is the most caring tutor. She is kind and generous. Helping people achieve their goals in life makes Jenny happy. Jenny makes courses fun, informative and exciting.”Sarah K

“Jenny is a fantastic, friendly and supportive teacher. She’s very kind and puts so much effort to help her students to learn. We were all very happy to have her as a teacher.” - Khadija

To find out more about the courses on offer, call 01225 770478, email familyandcommunitylearning@ wiltshire.gov.uk, or visit workwiltshire.co.uk/family-andcommunity-learning.

Have your say on gambling policy during consultation

PEOPLE are being urged to have their say on how gambling licences are handled in Wiltshire.

Views are being sought on the draft gambling police at Wiltshire Council, setting out how it will manage premises with gambling licences, and giving residents information on how they are handled.

Licensing Authorities are required to review their Statement of Gambling Principles Policy every three years - and

Wiltshire Council’s current policy must be renewed by October this year.

The policy will also cover adult gaming centres, family entertainment centres, casinos, bingo premises, betting premises, tracks and travelling fairs. The council also has the ability to issue permits for prize gaming and unlicensed family entertainment centres.

Wiltshire Council is now consulting on the proposed new Statement of Gambling Principles Policy and the draft policy can be

found on the Wiltshire Council website under Gambling.

The consultation will run for four weeks, until Monday 5 August.

People can give their views by completing the consultation survey online via the Wiltshire Council website. Paper copies are also available in Wiltshire Council libraries.

The results of the consultation will be reported back to the council’s Licensing Committee at its meeting in September.

Chaplains’ vital work in rural areas

THE Rural Chaplaincy Team of the Salisbury Diocese works across Dorset and Wiltshire, visiting farms and rural businesses, giving support where needed.

It is about being part of the fabric, immersed in everything that happens – big or small, a listening ear, a signpost where needed.

Each Tuesday, the chaplains visit Salisbury Livestock Market.

This weekly event is more than simply transactional for the farmers attending, it is a social network.

And it is not just the farmers, they meet dealers, hauliers, agents, caterers, vets and regulatory officers, reaching out far and wide into the very rural, often isolated, agricultural community by means of a central place.

Rural chaplains provide wellbeing and mental health support but are aware that illness and physical issues are not being addressed, simply because the nature of farming leaves many unable to find time

to attend regular GP appointments.

Many prioritise their work over their own wellbeing.

From June 2024, building on the success of a project in another livestock market, healthcare professionals from the NHS will work alongside the rural chaplains, holding weekly surgeries at Salisbury market.

Two rural chaplains will be present for the two days of the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show on Wednesday and Thursday, August 14-15, and the Church Tent is providing a base for them.Do come along to talk to them.

JO CHURCHILL

Church Tent organiser Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show 2024

Opening hours

I WAS very interested to read of Waitrose asking to open for longer on Sundays and bank holidays in your last edition (‘Waitrose bids to open longer,

Sky Diary with Paul Adamson

MOON PHASES

Full Moon July 21 / Last Qtr

July 28

New Moon August 4 / First Qtr

August 12

PLANETS

Venus reappears as an evening star in the west at sunset setting around 9pm and at this time Saturn rises in east, Mars and Jupiter the then appear just after midnight.

CONSTELLATION

Look out for the summer triangle which are the first stars to appear as darkness falls the three stars being the brightest in

July 1).

It’s long been a bugbear of mine that shops have to limit their opening hours on a Sunday.

Why? It seems to me we are completely behind the times on this, as there is clearly no longer a need for time to go to church or whatever - and even if there was, surely businesses could be compelled to accommodate that?

It’s another example of outdated ‘tradition’ holding things back.

For goodness sake, it is 2024.

The internet certainly doesn’t close on Sundays, so why are shops forced to?

With our high streets struggling so much, this seems like a really simple step that could be taken to give businesses the chance to open when they like and boost trade.

J HEDGES Salisbury

Polls apart

FOLLOWING last week’s

general election, I have heard a lot of talk about proportional representation - which would mean the number of MPs in parliament is decided by parties’ share of the vote around the country.

I have to admit, this feels like it would be far fairer than the system we currently have.

Whatever you think of Reform UK, the party received more than 4 million votesmore than the Liberal Democrats - but has just five MPs.

Compare that to the Green Party, which received fewer than 2 million votes, yet has four MPs.

The Lib Dems received fewer than 3.5 million votes, but has a massive 71 MPs.

That can’t be fair, can it?

I understand the parties can only play the system they have, but something is not right when these are the results people get. No wonder so many think voting is pointless - because it is!

NAME & ADDRESS SUPPLIED

the constellations of Lyra, Cygnus and Altair. The triangle is an asterism or unrelated group of star and the phrase was first coined by the late great Sir Patrick Moore who presented The Sky at Night television program for over 55 years.

CELESTIAL EVENTS

The Moon sets at 11pm on the evening of August 12, making way for a what should be a good display of the annual Perseid meteor shower which is usually one of the best of the year.

Organ series underway at cathedral

SALISBURY Cathedral’s

2024 Organ Series has got underway - with a host of events taking place in the coming months.

A series of musical events will take place at the iconic venue, featuring a raft of top names.

A spokesperson said: “Join us at Salisbury Cathedral for a host of exciting musical events as part of the 2024 Organ Series.

“We are honoured to welcome performances from esteemed organists over the next few months including compelling programmes from each.”

Among the highlights are:

Sarah Baldock: July 20

“On July 20 we welcome solo Organist, Sarah Baldock, director of music at Winchester College, as well as former Trustee and course tutor for the Royal College of Organists.

“She performs as an organ soloist, recently broadcasting with the BBC Singers and Concert Orchestra.

“Baldock began her career as Organ Scholar at Pembroke College, later being appointed founder director of the Girls’ Choir at Winchester Cathedral at the age of 23.

“Later, she was appointed Assistant Director of Music, accompanying the Winchester Cathedral boys and men as well as proceeding to be Organist and Master of the Choristers at Chichester Cathedral.

“You can look forward to hearing various works from Jehan Alain, Rachel Laurin, JS Bach and Maurice Duruflé as part of Sarah Baldock’s performance.”

The concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £15, with accompanied children under 18 costing £7.

Kerry Beaumont: September

7

“Organist Kerry Beaumont’s career began in Canada, from his early studies in Toronto and Quebec to courses in improvisation in Nice and Montreal.

“After winning the San Anselmo International Organ Improvisation Competition in 1986, Beaumont became director of music in three British cathedrals (St Davids 1990-94, Ripon 94-2002, and Coventry 2006-2020).

“Since then, Beaumont has pursued orchestral and chamber activities as a cellist and double bassist as well as being piano teacher in three Warwickshire schools.

The concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £15, with accompanied children under 18 costing £7.

“This performance from Kerry Beaumont includes exciting works such as First Flight by Cecilia McDowall and Jonathan Dove’s Niagara.”

Other events include an Organ Prom on August 10, and The Phantom of the Opera on October 5.

For full details, see salisburycathedral.org.uk.

Over-60s and dementia-friendly screenings open to Everyman - and are box office hit!

PEOPLE over 60 - and those living with dementia - have been enjoying special cinema screenings.

Care company, Home Instead Salisbury and Romsey, has been scheduling dementiafriendly matinees at the Everyman cinema in Salisbury.

And the firm said the matinees, which launched earlier this year, have been such a success, it has now booked matinees for the rest of the year.

The screenings will include movies such as My Fair Lady and Driving Miss Daisy, in a dementia-friendly environment, with the audience able to enjoy low lighting, so

guests feel comfortable moving around if needed.

Since launching in February, the matinees have welcomed more than 300 visitors and raised more than £500 for Silver Salisbury, a charity working to reduce loneliness and isolation by supporting older people to be active in the community.

Jonathan Gapper, managing director of Home Instead Salisbury and Romsey, said: “We’re delighted with how successful our dementia friendly matinees at the Everyman cinema have been.

“To regularly be welcoming 50-60 people along to each session and seeing the enjoyment watching a classic movie in a comfortable environment brings, is truly wonderful.”

Irene Kohler, chair of Silver Salisbury, added: “Thanks to our local community who have really got behind this initiative and made it such a success. With over £500 raised in donations, we’re so grateful.”

And Philip Bendall, manager at the Everyman, said: “Being able to host such special matinees in our cinema has been wonderful.

“We now have a full schedule for the rest of the year and look forward to welcoming many more members of our community through the doors.”

The next screening at the Endless Street cinema is set for Tuesday, August 6, at 1pm, when the matinee will be Cool Runnings.

All are welcome. The matinees include a complimentary tea or coffee and are free to attend. A charitable donation is welcome, with all donations going to Silver Salisbury.

Come & Sing Mozart in Tisbury 26-27 October with Cherubim Chamber Singers & Orchestra. Requiem, Don Giovanni, Magic Flute. £70. cherubimtrust.org/tkts

Film fans enjoying matinees at Everyman in Salisbury

Entertainment: Glastonbury 2024 Review

Headliners represent a fork in the road for festival...

“IT all changes when you have children”. The comments were usually accompanied by a roll of the eyes and a puffing out of the cheeks.

“Just you wait,” they’d say. “It’ll all be different then.”

As someone who has been a festival goer for more than two decades, expecting a first child with a wife who had also enjoyed drinking and listening to music in various fields across the UK, these remarks usually came as we discussed which gatherings we were attending that summer.

They were right, of course. It does indeed ‘all change when you have children’.

But change is the operative word –‘change’, not ‘stop’ – as so many no doubt expected.

Festivals are still among the highlights of our year – Glastonbury in particular.

So it matters to us – and now, to our children too, them having been in attendance at Worthy Farm since they were babies. It never ceases to amaze some folks when our eldest, who is nine, tells them she’s been to Glastonbury five or six times.

But it really is a way of life, a pilgrimage, a treasured time.

Yes, things have changed. And not only for us.

‘QUEUE here to complain the festival is not as good as it used to be.’

So read the sign in a far-flung corner of Worthy Farm. I saw it a few times, and it never failed to raise a smile.

The refrain is heard so much from, shall we say, veteran festival goers.

Now, I dare say I might qualify for such

a tag in some quarters, though it’s not something I ever strive to portray, or think gives me more knowledge or right to attend than anyone else.

For it is not only me that’s changed, has had to change – festivals have too.

Glastonbury, for five days, becomes one of the most densely populated places on Earth. It is enormous. With that comes some responsibility; to the land, the people, the performers. But also to the history and heritage of the event.

Over the years it has evolved, as have we all – sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse – but without change there is no progress.

Right now, the Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts is at a crossroads.

The direction it takes from here will be, for this reluctant ‘veteran’ and the event itself, huge. And this direction is perhaps most symbolised by the choice of headliners…

THERE’S no avoiding the fact this year’s line-up was not what many expected.

For now, let’s focus on headliners of the Pyramid, that behemoth of stages and quite literally the focal point for those on site –and millions around the world.

At the Glastonbury crossroads, the first turn is for Dua Lipa.

She is currently an icon of the pop world and was worth a punt as a Friday-night headliner, in my opinion.

Did it pay off? For me, yes – just.

Glastonbury is about embracing new things, new genres, sounds and styles, and

the 28-year-old certainly put on an impressive show.

The one niggling reservation I have –and it applies to all the 2024 Pyramid stage headliners – is who that show is for? For the performance came over far, far better on television than in the field.

At Worthy, unless you were front and centre, you hardly saw her. The stage design, lighting, everything, seemed almost designed for television rather than the tens of thousands in that field.

It looked great on TV, when watching back, but what I was watching seemed detached from my experience being there, which was good, but somehow separate from us in the field.

Which is perhaps exactly what she and her team wanted. There aren’t many streams or downloads to be secured for Dua Lipa from your average Glastonbury goer, rocking on aching feet after walking for miles in at times searing Somerset heat, I’d argue.

But it was fun, upbeat and slick. And a young British/Albanian songwriter on one of, if not the, biggest stage in the world? It’s a win.

We all went home to our tents, or off into the wider Glastonbury world, satisfied that night.

On to Saturday, and Coldplay. Ah, Coldplay. A legend of those fields, no doubt about it, but a fifth time? Really?

I have to wonder if a headlining slot at Glastonbury is part of the marketing schedule for new Coldplay albums, as it now feels like a launch party, a PR event, when they play.

What gimmick will it be this time?

Which celebrities will be in the crowd? Who will they bring out on stage with them?

Believe me, I adore Michael J Fox (I got many a rollocking from my mother as I tried desperately to cling to the back of her VW Polo on my skateboard as a youngster, The Power of Love blasting through my Walkman headphones), but his appearance feels like part of a checklist somehow.

It may be harsh, and you cannot doubt the good intentions of Chris Martin and his merry men, but it all feels a little synthetic – too well produced.

Celebrity in crowd? Check. Colourful backdrop and fireworks? Check. Bring out an unexpected guest? Check. Successful launch for new material? Absolutely. Call me cynical, but it does have that feel.

I am a fan of Coldplay at Glastonbury, they ‘get it’, and they never disappoint. But it just doesn’t feel fresh anymore, it feels like a bucket-list exercise for the bucket-list festival goer. Again, perhaps that is exactly what it is intended to be. Coldplay are almost as obligatory as a selfie in front of the Pyramid stage. To Sunday, and SZA. This is where things get a bit sticky.

When first perusing the line-up, being of a certain age and heritage, I was unaware of any of her music. But that’s fine, I am not a devoted follower of the latest trends, artists and genres, as I once was, so I simply deduced she must be a big name I was unaware of. And she is.

Entertainment: Glastonbury 2024 Review

Unfortunately, for whatever reason, this was not that.

ASwe approach those crossroads, the three forks in the road – Dua Lipa, Coldplay and SZA – almost perfectly represent the choices facing our beloved festival.

There’s no doubting the weight of influence the TV cameras, the social media generation and the worldwide media have on what is, at its core, a huge concert in a field.

Glastonbury has become an industry in its own right, a commodity – and a hugely marketable one.

Booking headliners that satisfy the pull of each fork in that road must be a

Glastonbury’ which, for better or worse, is clearly part of the consideration now.

I’m not bemoaning that, progress can only come through change. But that aside, when did the headliner – particularly for a Sunday night, for example – have to be “new”? Some of the best Glastonbury sets have come from acts definitely not, “new”; The Who in 2007, Elton John in 2023, David Bowie in 2000, Levellers in 1994 and yes, Coldplay’s numerous shows.

That said, if an algorithm existed to pick Glastonbury headliners for 2024, what we got would probably have been close to what it selected.

They all looked great, they are all big stars and are hugely marketable.

I’m reminded of comments made by footballer Roy Keane when, bemoaning the state of the game in the multi-billion pound premier league era, he branded a chunk of the supporters at the ground the ‘prawn sandwich brigade’.

nightmare and mistakes will inevitably be made. But there’s no doubt those factors have to be a consideration when booking acts.

Her voice is absolutely outstanding, and her music – even though it’s really not my thing – is clearly genuine, real, and has a mass appeal.

Yet streams do not a Glastonbury headliner make.

There’s an unquantifiable something about a really successful Pyramid headliner. And for SZA, this year, it just wasn’t there. Much has been made of the size of the crowd at her set, and there may be something to that, which is of course completely beyond her control. But this slot is a tough one to fill – for the booker as much as the artist. It needs the right act. The closing Pyramid set should be a feelgood farewell; a mass, uplifting event, to send us all on our way back to the real world with a spring in our step and hearts full of joy. Someone like, I dunno, Coldplay?

It is no longer good enough to be good enough.

Glastonbury now feels like it has extra criteria for headliners; will they improve the ‘brand’ and will the casual BBC viewer tune n to see them?

All three headliners looked amazing on the TV. All three are very, very talented. But so are many, many others.

Their problem? They’re not cool. They don’t chime with BBC expectations. They wouldn’t garner the same headlines. They don’t break new ground etc.

Discussing headliners last week, Emily Eavis revealed a lot when she told PA: “I think the line-up reflects what’s happening in the music world at the moment – there aren’t a lot of new rock acts to choose from if I’m honest.”

There are. But they are, perhaps, not quite marketable enough for ‘brand

The game had changed, he said, and some of the effects were not necessarily for the better. The new football formula was undoubtedly right for Sky TV and millions of fans around the world. But in the ground, the experience was – perhaps – compromised. The demographic changed.

Part of the beauty of Glastonbury is that it has never had a formula. Many of the truly great performances have been a surprise – they did not come with pre-planned costume changes and camera angles mapped to the n-th degree to ensure maximum viewing pleasure.

Glastonbury, like those of us who love it, has changed. And rightly so. But sometimes, making those changes can fall flat. Progress is an evolutionary process. No one can deny Glastonbury is a phenomenal achievement and a hugely successful event that provides a backdrop for hundreds of thousands of life-changing moments and memories.

Getting it right every time is an impossible ask. And there are now numerous forks in the road to negotiate when picking the flagship performers, making it even harder.

It represents a huge and difficult choice for the direction of Glastonbury in 2025 –and beyond.

PAUL JONES

Napolean’s pistols that ‘could have changed the course of history’ sold at auction for £1.4 million

APAIR

of pistols belonging to Napoleon Bonaparte have sold at auction - for around £1.4 million.

The weapons were billed as having the possibility of having ‘changed the course of history’, as it is believed the legendary general considered using them to take his own life after a military defeat in 1814.

However, the memoirs of his close ally, Armand de Caulaincourt, revealed how he removed the powder from the guns, rendering them useless.

Made by Paris gunsmith Louis-Marin Gosset, the pistols feature a raft of intricate detail, including references to Greek gods, gold and silver, as well as an image of the general himself.

With an estimate of between £1m and £1.2m, the hammer finally came down at the Osenat auction house at £1.4m on July 7.

The items have been declared national treasure by the French government, meaning they can only leave the country temporarily - while the government has 30 months to make an offer to buy them.

The history of the guns is centred on events leading up to

and including the night of April 12, 1814, when it is believed Napoleon considered taking his own life while at Fontaineblaeau, after foreign forces had defeated his army and occupied Paris.

In Caulaincourt’s memoirs, published in 1933, he said he was summoned by the general, who told him he wanted to die.

He said: “During a calmer interlude he told me to give his beautiful necessaire to Prince Eugene as a keepsake, and to keep his finest sabre and his pistols for myself, along with his cameo portrait.”

However, unbeknown to his friend, Napoleon had ingested poison. He survived the initial poisoning, only to later ask for more - which he was refused.

Caulaincourt then took the decision to remove the powder, leaving them unable to fire.

“They told me Napoleon had been talking about how to kill himself for days, and had frequently examined his pistols,” he wrote.

However, Napoleon went on to flee from his exile, retake France and fight Europe once more at the Battle of Waterloo. After the drama of April

1814, the guns have remained with the descendants of the Duke of Vicenza until they were sold at the auction on July 7, the sales firm said.

Homes & Garden

Hydrangeas are big in Japan...

by Sally Gregson

WE gardeners are quite used to growing hydrangeas –mopheads, lacecaps and those bearing panicles of cream flowers that fade pink. But then, when I first started getting involved with them, I began to realise that there were other, less commonly grown species.

Many come from the islands of Japan, and when my nursery started to specialise in hydrangeas, I decided to concentrate on the lesser-known Japanese Hydrangea serrata, which western growers seem to ignore.

They are native to the cool, mountainous central region of Honshu, the main island of Japan, and are one of the traditional plants of “old” Japan, where they are grown widely. There are several special forms of H. serrata with the epithet “Amacha”, and it is

these that are made into a “tea” that is drunk to celebrate the birthday of the Buddha. It is important to emphasize that only those with that name can be made into tea and drunk. The remainder contain a form of cyanide. Hydrangea serrata and H. macrophylla are particularly poisonous. It’s quite a useful fact for gardeners who are plagued by rabbits and deer, which can’t read labels.

There are many other forms, among them the dwarf H. serrata “Diadem”, with flowers the translucent blue of a summer sky in a large pot of ericaceous compost. Or H. serrata “Beni Yama” with white florets like the painted face of a geisha, splashed lipstick-red as they age, and H.serrata “Shojo” whose flowers are pastel pink in alkaline soils and fade to a rich red that tones with the

reddening leaves in late summer.

There are very many more named varieties of H. serrata in Japan than there are in the West. The reason for their popularity is not at first clear. The market for pot plants is huge in a country with so little land to spare, where most people live in tiny apartments with small balconies and are yet very prosperous. The appetite for different plants is as voracious as it is here – a testament to a “plantaholic” population and one that does not suffer from vandalism.

The diminutive H. serrata has long been a winner for pot-culture and is grown extensively. So, try a pretty H. serrata in a container in the shady part of the terrace. It will flower from July and many repeat or have reddening flowers all summer.

H.serrata “Shojo” and the H. serrata “Diadem” dwarf form

Sudoku 3D puzzle

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.

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

1 Explain source of poetry in competition (5,2)

5 Parking behind river in settlement (4)

9 In theory how one might describe print journalist’s work? (2,5)

10 Jog in an unclad state around front of ground (5)

11 Shot outer case (5)

Down

2 Some Scandinavians in hearing make a mistake (5)

3 A friend in place lying injured in a shocking way (11)

4 Loosen a French dance (6)

6 Like proper pasta lad with teen cooked (2,5)

7 Sly look in summit, it’s said (4)

12 Part of car needing to be dismantled with day gone (6)

14 Mercenary type nearly performed (6)

16 Division of pupils? It has little currency (6)

18 Gun repaired by fighter in this country backed for martial art (4,2)

19 A second group proving an advantage (5)

22 Flower is planted in period of light (5)

23 Fellow with trouble on river is a loser (7)

24 Partly predictable verdict always (4)

25 Hold spellbound husband in rental after renovation (7)

Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. 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.

8 Be formed by Conservative regarding society? It’s crazy (7)

10 Harm in sight being reviewed is horrifying

13 English politician with rank is less substantial (7)

15 By the sound of it, regret adolescent comedian’s act (7)

17 Miss at home round cake (6)

20 Sources of steam and usually nudity appear here? (5)

21 Advantage in shelf left out (4)

(4)

politician with rank is less

15 By the sound of it, regret adolescent comedian’s act (7) 17 Miss at home round cake (6)

(11)

20 Sources of steam and usually nudity appear here? (5)

21 Advantage in shelf left out (4)

‘Underrated’ new Suzuki Swift offers buyers a simple choice...

Underrated is probably the wrong word. Sometimes a really good product sneaks under the radar for the simple reason that most people just forgot it.

This particular one has already been on sale for a couple of months, yet it probably hasn’t occurred to you that it could be the ideal choice for your next car, which would be a shame, because the new Suzuki Swift Hybrid is a brilliant little car.

Suzuki revealed the new Swift range back in October 2023 and its stylish design, spacious cabin, ample luggage space, and hatchback practicality is already proving desirable. Believe it or not, the Suzuki Swift is pushing 40 years old now. It began life as the Cultus/SA310 and was Suzuki’s first model to outgrow the Japanese ‘Kei’ class.

The Cultus was first unveiled at the 25th Tokyo Motor Show back in 1983, going head-tohead with the likes of the Toyota Starlet and Nissan Micra.

By the time it launched in the UK in 1985, Suzuki had decided

Swift was a much better choice of name for the European market. And unlike the other two aforementioned models, the Suzuki Swift is still with us four decades later.

Now, we’re into the fourthgeneration of the Suzuki Swift, and the new hybrid version has been on sale since April.

With the same updated design and enhanced specification as the rest of the new range, the Swift Hybrid also adds better performance, lower emissions, and improved fuel economy to the list of very good reasons to choose one.

The new Suzuki Swift Hybrid boasts a slightly more muscular appearance than before. Blacked out pillars create the illusion of a floating roof as well as matching nicely with the new piano black grille. Revised LED headlamps and L-shaped running lights complete the updated front end. The rear has also been tweaked and now features a wider bumper design, integrated hatch spoiler, and boot side spoilers. The rear lights mirror the design of the headlamps and boast a three-dimensional appearance.

The interior features a new high-quality dual-tone design with centre controls angled towards the driver and a prominent nine-inch infotainment display fitted as standard. The heated front seats are also standard and boast a new design with reshaped cushioning between the shoulder and side bolsters creating a more sculpted look.

The new Suzuki Swift Hybrid is available in two generously equipped trim-levels – Motion and Ultra.

Standard equipment in the Motion grade includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, navigation system, rear view camera, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, wireless smartphone connection, and keyless entry and start. Safety and driver aids also include a Driver Monitoring System, Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and Weaving Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, and enhanced Traffic Sign Recognition.

Step up to the Ultra grade and you add upgraded 16-inch polished alloy wheels,

automatic air conditioning, rear passenger heater outlet, and electric folding door mirrors.

The new Swift is also available in eight metallic colours with a further four dual tone colour schemes. The Dual-tone finish is an optional extra and features a Black Pearl or Grey metallic roof depending on the chosen body colour.

Power comes from an all-new and highly efficient three-cylinder petrol engine with multi-point fuel injection. The engine has been specially developed for the new Swift and offers enhanced fuel economy, improved torque, and even lower CO2 emissions than before.

The 1.2-litre petrol engine works in conjunction with a 12v mild hybrid system to generate a total power output of around 82bhp. That level of power is never going to make the Suzuki Swift a fast car, but because it’s small and lightweight getting to 60mph is likely to feel quicker than the reported 12 seconds.

The Swift has always been a car that relies on handling and agility to put a smile on your face and it doesn’t need to be

massively powerful to achieve that goal. The Swift’s hybrid system also helps achieve CO2 emissions figures from just 99g/ km and fuel consumption of up to 64mpg so it ticks all of the economy boxes too.

In terms of the model range, choosing your new Suzuki Swift Hybrid is simple and painless.

You’ve got the aforementioned trim-levels, Motion and Ultra, and each one is fitted with the same 1.2-litre hybrid system so that choice is already made for you.

The only decision you face is which of the two trim-levels you would like, and whether you prefer a five-speed manual or the CVT automatic transmission. The only minor complication is if you opt for the Ultra trim with the manual gearbox, because then you’ll also have to decide if you want to fit Suzuki’s Allgrip 4WD system.

With on-the-road prices starting from a little over £18,500, the Suzuki Swift is great value for money as well as being a fantastic little car.

Even if you opt for the top-of-the-range Ultra with 4WD, and then tick every single

box in the options list you still won’t be able to push the price much beyond £24k.

The price also includes a

seven-year warranty, not that you’re likely to need it given Suzuki’s well-earned reputation for reliability.

New government ‘reset’ for farming

FARMING

group the NFU has said it is looking forward to a new partnership with Sir Keir Starmer’s new Labour Government - aiming to “rebuild confidence in the agriculture industry”.

In the run-up to polling day, the NFU reached out to 904 prospective candidates, while 378 potential MPs were met face to face or out on farm.

With hundreds of new MPs now in office, the NFU is poised to put forward farming’s priorities at our MP reception on July 18.

Responding to the election result, NFU President Tom Bradshaw said it was a chance for a “reset moment” for British agriculture as the NFU looks to work with the new government “to drive our sector forward and grow”.

He added: “Labour’s manifesto recognised that food security is national security, but it is business confidence which forms the foundation of this.

“With British farmers and growers ambitious for the future, what they – and the public – need are practical policies that revitalise farm business confidence and deliver on our shared mission of food security.

“In a cost-of-living crisis, our ability to provide affordable, climate-friendly and highwelfare food will be critical for families across the country, as well as underpinning the UK’s largest manufacturing sector, food and drink, and stimulating economic growth.”

He said the NFU would now look to build on its strong engagement with Labour ministers and discuss essential policy solutions on key issues for members.

Priorities include farm finances, including setting an increased multi-year agriculture budget for the duration of the next parliament to invest in UK farming.

“This is about investing in

the future of British farming –in homegrown food, in the environment and in renewable energy,” Tom said.

The new Secretary of State should also commit to a more transparent transition that ensures all stakeholders can share and support Defra’s plans, he said.

The NFU said it was delighted the Labour manifesto committed to a trade strategy that promotes the “highest standards of food production”, calling it “something we have long called for”.

Elsewhere, Tom said there are “various issues that need greater recognition if the sector is to unlock its potential for growth”.

These include; A “fit for purpose” Seasonal Workers Scheme; Effective import controls; Supply chain fairness; Investment in infrastructure; Flexibility in planning.

“Our members will also want to see the new government’s

commitment to food security by being alert to the risk and impact of disease, particularly bovine TB, as we work towards the government’s target to eradicate this terrible disease by 2038,” Tom went on.

“With the latest science showing a 56% decline in TB outbreaks, continuing with an effective and comprehensive eradication plan, which is based on scientific evidence, is essential.

“Working together on these immediate priorities is a win-win,” he added.

“The public will get more of the British food they know and love, farmers and growers will have the confidence to build profitable, sustainable, resilient businesses – supporting economic growth and environmental delivery – and this new government will help to secure a safe supply of homegrown food in an increasingly volatile and uncertain world.”

NFU president Tom Bradshaw, right, is aiming to make farming a priority at Westminster

Jennifer scoops top prize for healthy and economic meal and is crowned School Chef of the Year 2024

THEtasty talents of a Salisbury chef have been recognised with a national award.

Jennifer Brown - school chef at Sarum Academy - has been crowned the LACA School Chef of the Year (SCOTY), picking up a £1,000 prize, as well as the prestigious title.

In her fourth time entering the culinary contest, Jennifer was the South West’s regional finalist via a wildcard entry, and wowed judges at the national final in Birmingham on July 4 with her inclusion of fish, ambitious flavours and her creativity in creating an exciting dish on the small budget allowed per portion.

As well as the title and cash prize, Jennifer has received an invitation to come back as a guest judge next year.

On the day, chefs had just 90 minutes to make two dishes that met strict judges’ briefs around nutrition and cost.

For her main dish, Jennifer cooked ‘Easy like Monday mornay’ - baked pollock with cheese sauce in a potato and spinach case.

For dessert, she prepared a rhubarb and custard meringue tart with raspberry coulis.

“I love getting fish into the kids’ food but it’s expensive, so you have to be a little more creative around how you get it in,” she said.

“This dish is a perfect way – a small

amount, but they still get their Omega threes.”

She added: “I like to present food in a different way – it’s all about colours and textures and something like this fish dish adds interest.

“It’s more fun than the standard fish and chips.”

Second place was awarded to Richard Hardy, representing the North East and Scotland region, while third place was won by Paul Hardy, representing the North West region.

Louise Wagstaffe, Premier Food’s senior culinary adviser and SCOTY head judge, said: “Jennifer’s dishes in the competition this week were delicious – full of flavour and absolutely stand-out.

“She came a very close runner-up in the regional heat which is why we awarded her the Wildcard entry and she has clearly taken on-board our feedback.

“Her main was delicious and her dessert absolute perfection – the flavours were amazing.

“The skills she showed were very high and producing such a lovely main, a potato case with fish, was a really interesting and creative twist on a fish pie or fish dishgenius.

“It was cooked to perfection and a joy to eat.”

The SCOTY competition aims to show the high quality of school meals and the contribution they make to the health and wellbeing of children.

The 12 finalists, who had competed at regional heats across the country, were judged on the use of Premier Food and Bisto products, working practices in the kitchen, creativity, appearance, taste and flavour.

They had just 90 minutes to create four portions of their two-course menu that meet the School Food Standards and Eat Well Guide, with a total food cost of £1.60 per head.

Sarum Academy chef Jennifer during the contest, left, and with her dishes, right, which wowed the judges, pictured below

How will a new Labour Government affect housing market? A guide...

THEnew Labour Government has pledged to “get Britain building again” and reform the planning system in a bid to help people get on the housing ladder.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told property website Rightmove his party would target 1.5 million new homes over this parliament.

Before the results were announced, he said: “Only Labour has a serious plan to tackle the housing crisis. After 14 years of the Tories, the idea of owning your own home has become a pipe dream for many.

“If we have the privilege of being elected on the 4th of July, we’ll take the action needed to get Britain building again, delivering 1.5 million new homes and reforming the planning system.”

The property site has outlined what the new government has said on housing - and what we can expect:

Building new homes

Labour plans to build 1.5 million homes over the next five years, and update the National Policy Planning Framework.

Stamp duty

First-time buyers currently pay no stamp duty on homes priced up to £425,000. However, this relief is due to end next year. Previously, the threshold for first-time buyers to pay stamp duty was set at £300,000.

Labour plans to keep the current stamp duty exemption for first-time buyers that’s in place, but haven’t committed to extending it beyond the end of March 2025 expiry date.

Help for renters

Labour has pledged to ban no-fault

evictions. They are also looking to have ‘Awaab’s law’ – which currently applies to social housing only – apply to the private rental sector. This requires landlords to investigate and fix reported health hazards within specified timeframes.

They’ve also pledged to ‘empower tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases’.

Help for first-time buyers

Labour has said it hopes to help 80,000 more people get onto the property ladder with a comprehensive mortgage guarantee scheme, as well as offering ‘first dibs’ to locals looking to buy their first home in a new development.

Mortgages

Labour has pledged a ‘Freedom to Buy’ mortgage guarantee scheme, aimed at first-time buyers with smaller deposits.

While not a pledge in itself, Labour have also outlined a commitment to keeping mortgage rates ‘as low as possible’.

Making homes greener

The party has said all private rental properties will need to be rated EPC C by 2030. It’s worth noting that they’ve said no one will be forced to remove their old gas boiler as part of these plans.

They also plan to deliver a national Warm Homes Plan over a decade which could apply to up to 5 million homes, with the aim to eliminate fuel poverty by 2030.

Other housing legislation

Labour has pledged to reform the leasehold system, making commonhold the default tenure on new-build flats, and banning new leasehold flats.

Rightmove property expert, Tim

Bannister, said: “The certainty of having the next government in place will be good for the market, and we wait to see the housing policies that are prioritised.

“We can see in our data that in previous election years, there has been a slight bounce in home-mover activity after an election has taken place – so the same could happen this year in the short term, particularly against a background of a potential Bank Rate cut on the horizon, and lowering mortgage rates.

“It is crucial that the government considers the impact of any new policies on the wider market, as a policy designed with one group in mind often has knock-on implications for another group of homemovers.

“It’s encouraging to see that Labour’s manifesto focused on building more homes and planning reform. Creating more homes for sale and for rent quickly, while maintaining quality is a pressing issue, to ensure there are more homes to meet the demand.

“We think there is an opportunity to go further in giving support to first-time buyers. While a permanent mortgage guarantee scheme provides the certainty that this option will be available, from our research we can see that only a small number of first-time buyers are likely to benefit from it.

“Making the existing stamp duty thresholds permanent for first-time buyers would be a start, and then there is an opportunity to look at innovative solutions to help first-time buyers with both their deposit, and being able to borrow enough

Rightmove property expert Tim bannister, right, has been looking at pledges from new prime minister Keir Starmer on housing

Warning to renters as scam landlord targets Salisbury and Wilton taking deposits for home he doesn’t own

AMAN

is posing as a landlord and scamming people out of deposits to rent a home he does not own.

Wiltshire Police has warned renters to be on their guard after eight reports of a scam operating in the Salisbury and Wilton areas.

The scam involves a man posing as a landlord and showing possible tenants around a property - even though he does not own it.

When they say they want to move in, the man gets them to sign a contract and they send over a deposit.

But once the cash is received, the renters find he has disappeared and refuses to communicate further.

Complex fraud manager at Wiltshire Police, Cheryl Hurren, said: “We are following various lines of enquiry in relation to these reports and are taking them very seriously.

“We understand that with the rental market being incredibly

competitive at the moment, people might be tempted to take more risks to secure a property.

“However, I would urge people to be cautious and make sure what you are seeing is 100% legitimate.

“Fortunately, fraudulent landlords and letting agents are a minority in the industry but there are ways that people can check if the landlord or agent is a member of an industry body, which would indicate they are genuine and committed to improving standards.

“I would ask those looking for rental properties to be aware and report to us if you’ve seen or been involved in anything that has made you feel uncomfortable or suspicious.

“Until you’re certain that the advertiser is genuine, don’t send any money to anyone advertising rental properties online – remember this simple message: ‘My money? My info? I don’t think so’.”

Anyone who has experienced

something that seems suspicious should call 999 in an emergency, or 101 if it is non-urgent.

A police spokesperson added: “We would like to take this opportunity to remind people to be vigilant when renting, particularly when enquiring about property which has been advertised via social media.”

You can check if a landlord or agent is a member of an industry body such as:

n The professional body for the property sector | Propertymark

n NRLA – The Home For Landlords

n Safeagent – The Sure Sign of professionalism (safeagents. co.uk)

Some ways that you can protect yourself from rental fraud are:

n Do not send money to anyone advertising rental properties online until you are

certain that the advertiser is genuine.

n If you need to secure accommodation in the UK from overseas, seek the help of the employer or university you are coming to, or get a friend, another trusted contact or relative to check the property exists and is available.

n Do not pay any money until you, or a reliable contact, has visited the property with an agent or the landlord.

n Ask for copies of tenancy agreements and any safety certificates such as Gas Electricity or HMO Licence.

n Do not be pressured into transferring large sums of money. Transfer funds to a bank account having obtained the details by contacting the landlord or agent directly after the above steps have been followed.

n Be sceptical if you are asked to transfer any money via a money transfer service like Western Union.

A North Italian Renaissance Mirror 16thC, Tuscany

A Pair of White Leather and Chrome Swivel Chairs, with Footstools

1958 Rolex Oyster-Perpetual Air King Wristwatch

A Ponte Vececchio Gioelli, Italy 18CT Gold Pendant & Necklace

A Victorian Opaline Glass Twin Handled Vase. Baccarat

1910-20 Guiseppi Gazarini of Firenze Gentleman’s Travel Trunk

Large Handmade Persian Ishafan Rug 1920-30’s

Pair of Chinese Early to Mid 20thC Large Floor Famille Noire Vases