The Salisbury & Avon Gazette (16/01/23)

Picture: Spencer Mulholland Photography

Community cafe events at Amesbury cafe raises vital charity money

CHRISTMAS with Friends events raised more than £1,000 for the Salisbury Salvation Army.

The gatherings were held by the Taste cafe, in Amesbury, with donations from customers being handed to the cause.

The total amount raised was £1,055.

“We were delighted to receive £,1055 from our friends at Taste cafe from donations given by their customers at two special Christmas events,” said a Salvation Army spokesperson said.

“The community-minded cafe hosted a mulled wine and mince pies reception on December 18 and then a Christmas Day lunch with customers gifting to the charity rather than paying the menu prices.

“The events were a huge and deserved success with some people spending Christmas day at the cafe rather than being home alone.

“Well done to the team and thank you for your kindness in raising these valuable funds for our work here in the Salisbury Community.

“God Bless.”

Holocaust memorial event planned

OLDER people’s champion - and secondgeneration Holocaust survivor - Irene Kohler is leading an event in Salisbury to mark a special day.

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) takes place each year on January 27, remembering the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, alongside the millions of other people killed under Nazi persecution of other groups and in genocides that followed.

The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust theme for 2023 is ‘Ordinary People’, highlighting the ordinary people who let genocide happen, the ordinary people who perpetrated genocide, the ordinary people who rescued and the ordinary people who were persecuted.

This year, an event hosted by Salisbury City Council will take place at the Guildhall on the day, for invited representatives of communities, groups, organisations and faiths from across the city.

The event, between 10am and noon, will include a two-minute silence, music and video materials and history students reading first-hand accounts provided by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.

The council is working with a number of residents with direct generational experience of the Holocaust, including

Irene.

She said: “The murder by the Nazis of six million people, mainly Jews was a horrific event which affected so many families including my own, and threatened far more, should never be forgotten.

“Sadly, other atrocities have followed and are still happening in the world today, including in Europe.

“It is fitting for the residents of Salisbury to pay homage to all victims of such atrocities through holocaust Memorial Day.”

Mayor of Salisbury, Cllr Tom Corbin, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day is an opportunity for us to stop and remember

Salisbury Guildhall will host a special memorial event on January 27

and to tell future generations of the horror and persecution that took place on an unimaginable scale.

“History shows that we must always be prepared to speak out and confront all forms of racism and the importance of careful use of language from Parliamentarians to workplace rest rooms to school playgrounds and behind closed doors.”

Anyone who wishes to attend, represent a group, or become involved can contact the Communities Team directly on bhc@ salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk or call the office on 01722 417100. All attendees of the event will be invited by the City Council to sign a memorial book.

Taste cafe in Amesbury hands over the donations to the Salvation Army

Picture: Salvation Army

Use the bus to get around the city and beyond - for just £2

BUS fares for single journeys on most routes in Wiltshire are now priced at £2 or less - until March 31.

The fare price reduction has been funded by the Government, and is aimed at getting more people to use buses across the country during the current cost of living challenges.

As part of the promotion, many single bus fares in Wiltshire have been capped at just £2 for both adults and concessions.

If the single fare was originally less than £2, it will

remain at the reduced price, and many day return tickets have also been reduced.

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for transport, welcomed the scheme.

“This is a fantastic initiative to get more people using Wiltshire’s buses, as the £2 single fare cap offers an affordable and easy way to get around the county,” he said.

“If more people choose to leave their car at home and take the bus, it will help to maintain bus routes in Wiltshire, as well as reducing congestion and

Repair work completed at busy city centre car park

carbon emissions, and improving air quality.

“As we have set out in our Business Plan, we want to have vibrant, well-connected communities here in Wiltshire, and buses are a key part of that.

“Most bus services in Wiltshire are included in this great value offer, so I’d urge people to save money and explore Wiltshire by bus this year.”

Most normal bus services are included in the promotion, including services operated in Wiltshire by the following bus companies:

Plans for 25 new homes in village submitted to council planners

UP to 25 new homes could be built on land in Whiteparish.

• Beeline Coaches

• Coachstyle

• Damory Coaches

• Faresaver

• First Bus

• Fromebus

• Libra Travel

• MoreBus

• Stagecoach

• Salisbury Reds

• SouthWest Coaches

• Swindon’s Bus Company

n To find out more about bus services, routes and operators in Wiltshire, log on to www. connectingwiltshire.co.uk/ getting-around/bus.

SIX months of work at a Salisbury car park have been completed.

In June, work got underway to repair the structure of the Culver Street Car Park, pictured, to improve the structural integrity of the car park.

Now, repairs have been carried out, including to brick columns, floors and brickwork.

The flooring surface and ramps on levels two and three have also been replaced, which Wiltshire Council said should help to reduce the noise for

nearby residents.

Barriers and planters throughout the facility have also been either strengthened or replaced,

Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, cabinet member for operational assets, said: “We’re pleased that this work has been successfully carried out. Visually there is little noticeable change, but importantly the infrastructure has been improved and the building is structurally safe.

“We thank everyone for their patience and for bearing with us during the repair period.”

An outline planning application has been submitted to Wiltshire Council for the scheme, which would be made up of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes on land off the A27 Romsey Road.

The plans, as an outline application, do not include details such as layout and building specifications. These would follow in a further ‘reserved matters’ scheme.

It simply reads: “The erection of up to 25 homes, public open space, drainage features and landscaping within

a developable area of approximately 0.87 hectares. The houses are proposed as a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom dwellings and will include 40 percent affordable housing.”

It also outlines plans for a new access off Romsey Road for vehicles and pedestrians, as well as works on the south side of the public highway.

People can have their say on the scheme until January 19, 2023.

To view the plans in full log on to www.wiltshire.gov.uk and search for application reference PL/2022/09532.

Arrests on suspicion of murder as hunt for missing man continues

FIVE people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the disappearance of a man from Amesbury.

A 21-year-old and 20-yearold man and a 17-year-old boy, all from Farnborough, as well as a 29-year-old man from Fleet and a 36-year-old man from Aldershot - have been released on bail while police continue enquiries into missing Kiran Pun, pictured, who was last seen in Aldershot on Thursday, December 1.

Having arrived in the town just after 7.30pm, the 36-yearold walked from the railway station - where he had got off the number 1 bus - along East Station Road at 7.38pm.

Police are now appealing for anyone with information to get in touch as part of efforts to piece together his movements

thatt night.

DCI Adam Edwards, from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Major Crime Department, said:

“We have real concerns that something terrible has happened to Kiran, and we need the support of the people to help establish what has happened and where he is now.

“The considerable upset his disappearance has caused his family and his friends is difficult to convey, and we are doing all we can to try and provide them the answers they are seeking.

“If you have information, please share it with us. We are listening.”

How to protect your home from care costs

Nobody likes to think about getting old, but it is certainly worth thinking about if you value your home. That is because your house could very well be sold by the local council to pay for your care fees.

As an example, let’s say you own a home jointly with your partner and you live there until one of you dies. The surviving partner continues to live in the house until they must go into a care home run by the local authority. At that point, the local authority will assess the surviving partner for care fees. If their capital and savings are worth more than £23,250, they will have to fund their own care.

Councils place a charge on the property, which is paid when the house is sold. Alternatively, you may be required to sell the house immediately to raise the cash. Money raised from the sale of the house will fund your care until your savings get down to £23,250. That won’t leave much of an inheritance for your family and loved ones.

There are two solutions to the problem available to you. One is a will trust which protects 50% of the value of your home from care costs. The second is a living trust which shields 100% of the property. Both are relatively inexpensive to put into place. Every trust is administered by trustees, the trustees can be the partners or surviving partner and children.

The situation won’t get better over time. The UK’s fastest-growing age group comprises those aged over 85. Councils will face even more pressure on budgets, leaving them with little choice but to continue to sell people’s homes.

To protect your home, contact Oakwood Wills on 07832 331594

The main thing to remember with trusts is that because you do not own the assets held in the trust in your own name, it is more difficult for those assets to be taken away from you or from the beneficiaries of the trust.

Chris Tennant, Oakwood Wills

Kiran is described as being approximately 5ft 8ins to 5ft 9ins tall, with black short hair, brown eyes and a slim face. He has a scar on his chin.

He has links to Aldershot, Farnborough, Basingstoke and Andover.

DCI Edwards added: “Having walked south from the railway station along East Station Road, we have evidence of him between the junctions for St George’s Road and St Michael’s Road.

“Kiran is likely to have walked in one of three directions from here; South through Manor Park, north east towards the High Street or south west in the direction of

Manor Walk.

“If there is any chance whatsoever that you have footage from this area, then please can we ask you take a look and save this before getting in touch with us urgently. I cannot overstate how significant this could be for our investigation.

“Thank you to anyone who has shared our appeals so far, or who has come forward with information, your help and support is crucial and is appreciated.”

Anyone with footage can submit it online at https://mipp. police.uk/ operation/44HC22N08-PO1

Anyone who has seen Kiran since his disappearance, or has any information regarding his whereabouts, should call 101, quoting reference 44220510992.

Advertisement feature

Popular campsite looks to increase plots on offer and improve facilities

A ‘LONG-ESTABLISHED and successful’ campsite in Salisbury is looking to increase the number of pitches on offer.

The Camping and Caravan Club Site, in Castle Road, has submitted a planning application to increase the number of pitches by nine hard-standing pitches, as well as converting 10 current pitches, also to hard standing.

“The upgrades are proposed to provide a more solid and all-weather base for the larger and heavier vehicles the site is seeing in recent years, and the new pitches are to allow increased capacity for caravans and motorhomes,” the application said.

“This is due to an increasing trend witnessed by the site for a reduction in visitors under canvas and an increase in those with caravans and motorhomes.”

The nine new pitches are planned at the southern end of the site, which the application says would ‘not visually extend

the site’, as it is already used by visitors in smaller vehicles.

“The development would not increase vehicle movements, it would simply increase the capacity of the site for motorhomes and provide them with a better, all-weather base, ensuring that mud is not tracked onto the highway when vehicles leave,” it added.

The application says how the site has seen increased visitor numbers in the off season, which it hopes to continue.

“The touring caravanning and camping market is highly seasonal and weather dependant,” it said.

“In order to extend the season and keep demand in wet weather, sites need to have appropriate facilities – grass pitches are not appropriate outside of summer months.

“Additionally, the demand for properly appropriately surfaced pitches in winter months has seen steady growth as a result of the higher specifications for touring

caravans and motorhomes.

“This demand has particularly increased for the Christmas and New Year period.”

It added: “Increased occupancy here does not just benefit the site itself, but the tourism economy of the city as

a whole, as visitors are likely to visit for attractions and restaurants.”

The plans are open for comments until January 19, 2023. To view the full application, log on to www. wiltshire.gov.uk, application reference PL/2022/09304.

Patients reassured after surgeon’s conviction

HEALTH bosses in Salisbury have moved to reassure patients after a former hospital surgeon was convicted of possessing child abuse images.

A jury at Salisbury Crown Court found Mansoor Khan, pictured, guilty of three charges of making indecent images of children last month (December).

The 54-year-old, a former plastic surgeon at the city hospital, denied the charges, saying he had been using the dark web to educate his children about the dangers of the internet.

The jury disagreed, however, taking less two hours to reach a guilty verdict after a four-day trial.

Khan was convicted of possessing 106 illegal images on his phone, most of which were screenshots, taken between November 11 2020 and his arrest, on August 24, 2021,

after an investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA).

A total of 31 of the images were classed as category A, the most serious category, while 14 were of category B and 61 of category C.

After the verdict, Salisbury District Hospital issued a statement reassuring patients that none of the charges related to his work in Wiltshire.

“If anyone has any concerns following the recent guilty verdict of the trial of Mr Mansoor Khan (former Plastic Surgeon at Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust), please contact our dedicated helpline number on 07880278899 or email sft. mrkhanquestions@nhs.net,” a spokesperson said. “To confirm, the trust has been reassured by the National Crime Agency investigation team that none of the charges that Mr Khan has been found guilty of

relate to any clinical work here at Salisbury District Hospital.

“If anyone has any further information relating to this matter, please direct your concerns to the National Crime Agency on 0370 4967622.”

Khan, who was dismissed from his role at the trust, is due to be sentenced on February 24.

NCA operations manager, Richard Deakin, said: “Mansoor Khan abused his position of trust. By downloading these images he demonstrated a sexual interest in children and helped fuel the sickening demand for this kind of material.

“He denied ever taking screenshots of images on his phone, but our investigation showed this simply wasn’t true.

“The NCA continues to pursue offenders like Khan, to bring them to justice and protect victims of online child sexual abuse.”

The campsite is in Castle Road, and wants improve facilities and increase capactiy

Leading councillor steps down to take on advisor role at Westminster

A LEADING county politician has stepped down from a top job to take on a role at Westminster.

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, pictured, who is currently the cabinet member for transport, waste, Street Scene and flooding at Wiltshire Council, has announced he will be taking up the position of special advisor to the chief secretary of the Treasury.

The role will see Dr McClelland working with Salisbury MP John Glen - who was made chief secretary to the Treasury by Rishi Sunak when he became Prime Minister.

Council leader, Cllr Richard Clewer, confirmed Dr McClelland had stepped down and thanked him for his hard work and commitment.

“I want to thank Cllr McClelland for his service and great commitment to his role throughout his time on cabinet and I wish him well for the future,” he said.

“Mark has worked tremendously hard with officers and other cabinet members to ensure we have been able to progress a number of our business plan priorities and deliver the best outcomes for residents and businesses across Wiltshire.

“I have appointed Cllr Caroline Thomas as cabinet member for highways and Cllr Nick Holder as cabinet member for environment and climate change.”

Dr McClelland said he was looking forward to his new role at the heart of government.

Council’s potholes pledge

POTHOLES are the priority for highways teams.

That is the message from Wiltshire Council, which said the hot and dry summer, followed by a period of cold winter weather and the continuing heavy rain had caused problems on county roads.

The council and its contractors are working hard to fix cases of potholes on the county’s highways, a

spokesperson said.

As well as its usual teams working to fix potholes where they occur, the council has also tasked its 18 Parish Stewards to solely focus on mending potholes in recent weeks in a bid to get on top of the issue.

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, cabinet member for transport, said the summer, recent cold snap and the increasingly wet weather had brought an increase in potholes.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have resigned from the cabinet of Wiltshire Council,” he said.

“Over the past 18 months, I am very proud of our achievements in transport and waste – increasing funding for drainage, line painting, parish stewards, and cracking down successfully on fly-tipping.

“I have also overseen the award of new contracts for highways and grounds maintenance and ensured that improving and expanding our road network is at the heart of our transport policy.

“I am particularly pleased that we have put Salisbury’s chronic congestion issues

higher up the agenda with National Highways. After many decades of inertia, I look forward to this bearing fruit in the months ahead.

“There are very few circumstances in which I could have envisaged resigning voluntarily from my role but the opportunity to serve as special adviser to the chief secretary to the Treasury at the heart of the government is not something I could turn down.

“I look forward to continuing to work hard for the residents of St Francis and Stratford from the backbenches and securing the best outcomes for Salisbury and Wiltshire.”

by David Lindsay-Abaire. Music by Jeanine Tesori

World records you probably didn’t realise had a Salisbury link...

From bum walkers to historical clocks, Salisbury has its fair share of record holders - but they might not be what you expect. Because far from the usual feats, such as sporting efforts, the city boasts some more unusual efforts that are the envy of the world, or not...

The world’s oldest surviving clock

The unusual timepiece - which doesn’t have a face - dates from 1386, or possibly earlier, and can be found at Salisbury Cathedral.

It was restored in 1956, having struck the hours for 498 years and ticked more than 500 million times.

The most high explosives detonated in a single film take Explosions may not be anything special on the Salisbury Plains, but the world record set was i nfact for a Hollywood blockbuster.

Filmmakers from MGM Studios and others descended on the location during the making of James Bond movie, No Time To Die, in 2019.

There, experts detonated 136.4kg of a TNT equivalent for the shot.

The most backflips completed in one minute on a kick scooter

Another childhood favourite that has taken on a more serious tone is riding a scooter.

Salisbury’s own Tyler Hainey - a world-famous scooter pictured above - beat the record of one of his idols, Dakota Schuetz, when he completed an impressive 15 flips in January last year.

Perhaps more impressively, Tyler was just 10 years old when he did it.

The fastest 20m bum walk Shuffling around on your bottom was a favourite childhood pasttime for most of us - but it takes on a more serious meaning when world records are involved.

In 2013, during a special fundraising day held by the James Hay Partnership at Salisbury and South Wilts Sports Club, Harriet Pickrell took on this ‘cheeky’ challenge. She managed to travel 20 metres in 1 minute 4.05 seconds, smashing the previous record of 1m 39s.

The most magic tricks performed in a single skydive

Yes, you read that correctlymagic tricks performed while plummeting through the air at speeds of up to 120mph.

Daredevil magician Martin Rees took on the challenge in

2016 at GoSkydive in Wiltshire.

Dropping from 15,000 feet over Salisbury, the 28-year-old managed to complete 11 tricks, verified using video from several helmet cameras.

PCC sides with victims over report Forest council to provide update on plans for waste

NEW FOREST District Council (NFDC) is expected to provide an update to households on plans for new recycling and rubbish services, following a meeting of its Environment and Sustainability Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting, which was due to take place on January 12.

NFDC is planning to introduce wheelie bins for garden waste in April 2024, before delivering further service change from 2025. Further service change will include households receiving separate food waste collections, wheelie bins, and being able to recycle more plastics from the kerbside.

Cllr Steve Davies, portfolio holder for environment and coastal services, said: “We have been reviewing the timeline for the new service, and how we can deliver it as smoothly as possible for residents.

“This has included looking at whether we could introduce wheelie bins for all our recycling and rubbish services in 2024. To make all planned changes to the service, we are reliant on new sorting facilities in Hampshire, which are currently expected from 2025.

“It’s important we get the new service right, so that it

works for our community for the long run. For this reason, we’ll be starting with changes to garden waste collections, and introducing further changes once we have measures in place to deliver them effectively.

“A new garden waste service in 2024 will allow us to start making vital action to protect the environment and reduce waste. Wheelie bins for garden waste will provide double the capacity of sacks, and allow us to collect more recyclable garden waste, which will increase recycling rates. Plus, there is the added advantage to our customers and our crews of

being able to wheel bins rather than carry heavy bags.”

The council will continue to provide an assisted collection service for households that need support in taking garden waste to the edge of their property, and will survey those properties that might need an alternative to wheelie bins.

Residents can read about planned changes to the service online at https://www. newforest.gov.uk/wastestrategy, or contact the council’s customer services for a print copy.

Potholes the priority for council teams

POTHOLES are the priority for highways teams.

That is the message from Wiltshire Council, which said the hot and dry summer, followed by a period of cold winter weather and the continuing heavy rain had caused problems on county roads.

The council and its contractors are working hard to fix cases of potholes on the county’s highways, a spokesperson said.

As well as its usual teams working to fix potholes where they occur, the council has also tasked its 18 Parish Stewards to solely focus on mending potholes in recent weeks in a bid to get on top of the issue.

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, cabinet member for

transport, said: “Following the summer, the recent cold snap and the increasingly wet weather we have seen an increase in potholes on some of Wiltshire’s roads, and we’re working hard to respond to this, to ensure we have well-connected communities, as set out in our Business Plan.

“The weather has provided the perfect conditions for potholes to form, and that’s why we’re seeing an increase in the number of road defects throughout the county.”

People can report potholes through our MyWilts app or website, Cllr McClelland added.

For more details, log on to www.wiltshire.gov. uk/mywilts.

PRIOR to Christmas, Wiltshire PCC, Philip Wilkinson, issued a response to the publication of His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) repeat Victim Service Assessment (VSA) for 2022, which revealed that improvements in service quality were not happening as quickly as expected or the public deserved.

Acknowledging that the report would cause concern among crime victims, as well as “residents who deserve to see a police service which meets their needs at a time when they are most vulnerable”, Wilkinson said:

“While there may be some small areas of improvement, I share those valid concerns that in many areas reviewed by HMIC, improvements are not happening as quickly as the public, or I, would want.

“My job is to ensure the Chief Constable is being held to account for the service delivered by Wiltshire Police so tangible change can be seen, and felt, by those who call upon the police in their hour of need. I have been robust in that challenge and scrutiny – and I have been extremely clear this slow level of improvement, and deterioration in some areas, simply isn’t good enough.

“The force has recognised the need for rapid change and has committed to supporting victims, improving investigative standards and identifying vulnerability at the earliest opportunity but there must also be the requisite strategic planning by senior leaders in place which enables frontline officers and staff to deliver that change.

“I will continue to challenge for those strategic improvements and leadership on behalf of the public.”

Garden waste will be collected from April 2024 if plans proceed

Countess and fire chief lead New Year’s Honours list for Wiltshire

A NUMBER of Wiltshire residents have been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list. From arts devotees to charity stalwarts, the great and the good were named in the list, released on Friday, December 30.

The list of recipients in Wiltshire is:

CBE

n Madeleine Lola Margaret The Countess of Bessborough: Founder, New Art Centre. For services to Art, to Art Education and to Salisbury Cathedral (Salisbury, Wiltshire)

OBE

n Helen Clare Belcher: Trustee, Trans Media Watch, Director, Transactual and Councillor, Wiltshire Council. For services to the Transgender community (Corsham, Wiltshire)

n John Gerard Averell Spencer Churchill: Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Scanning Pens Limited. For services to International Trade and to the Dyslexia and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Community (Melksham, Wiltshire)

n James Patrick Hepburne Scott: Director, Forest Carbon. For services to Forestry and to the Environment in Scotland (Pewsey, Wiltshire)

n Rachel Hick: Deputy Head, Finance Team, Army Headquarters, Ministry of Defence. For services to Defence (Salisbury, Wiltshire)

n Elizabeth Anne Jackson: Head of Space Exploration, UK Space Agency. For services to the Space Sector (Swindon, Wiltshire)

n Catherine Victoria Spencer: Chief Executive Officer, The Seafarers Charity. For services to Seafarers (Pewsey, Wiltshire)

n Toby Jonathan Sutton: Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, Scanning Pens Limited. For services to International Trade and to the Dyslexia and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Community (Warminster, Wiltshire)

MBE

n Patrick Liam Bradley: Chief Executive Officer, Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership. For services to the Local Economy and to the community in Wiltshire. (Salisbury, Wiltshire)

n Meryl Ann Hayward:

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Director, Corporate Services, Historic England. For services to Heritage (Swindon, Wiltshire)

n Helen Mary Yeadon: Co-Founder and Chief Executive, Greatwood Horse Charity. For services to Disadvantaged Young People and to Former Racehorses (Marlborough, Wiltshire)

n Professor Geoffrey Till: Professor Emeritus, King’s College London and US Naval War College. For services to Defence (Devizes, Wiltshire)

n David Charles Townshend Bickers: Co-Founder and Chief Executive, The Douglas Bader Foundation. For services to People with Disabilities (Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire) BEM

n Sarah Anne Brewis: Headteacher, Woodborough Church of England Primary School, Pewsey, Wiltshire. For services to Primary Education (Calne, Wiltshire)

n Polly Jane Cox: For services to the community in Shalbourne, Wiltshire (Great Bedwyn, Wiltshire)

n Nicholas John Cross: Instructor, West Wiltshire Sailing Association. For services to Young People and to Charity (Colchester, Essex)

n Barbara Evelyn King: Group Scout Leader, Scout Activity Support Unit, 10th Chippenham Scout Group, Wiltshire. For services to Young People in Wiltshire (Chippenham, Wiltshire)

n Juliette Pearson: Lead, Digital Academy Services, Ministry of Defence. For services to Defence and to the community in Wiltshire

(Corsham, Wiltshire)

In other honours, Derek James, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal.

Derek, pictured, who has worked for the fire service for almost 20 years, said: “I am honoured to have been recognised by His Majesty. Throughout my career I have always done my upmost to help ensure we are a strong fire and rescue service that serves our communities well.

“I work alongside a bunch of fantastic people who work tirelessly at all levels to help make this happen. This award says as much about them as it does me.”

Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell congratulated Derek on his honour, and said: “I am absolutely delighted that Derek has been recognised nationally for his outstanding leadership in the fire and rescue sector.

“His skills, passion and leadership have been invaluable, and he has supported me and the service in responding to the many challenges and large-scale incidents that we have faced over the years.”

And chair of the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority, Cllr Rebecca Knox, added: “I am really pleased that Derek has been recognised for his leadership and commitment to the fire and rescue service by His Majesty the King.

“As Deputy Chief, Derek works hard to support others and lead an outstanding team who provide a vital service to the public across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset, Swindon and Wiltshire.

“On behalf of the Fire and Rescue Authority, I send our warmest congratulations to Derek, this medal is extremely well deserved.”

Covid data Flooding closes major road

THE number of people at Salisbury Hospital suffering from Covid-19 more than double in the week ending January 2, new figures show.

A total of 64 people were admitted with coronavirus between December 27 and January 2, according to government data, compared to 23 in the previous seven days, a rise of 178 percent.

There were 49 patients in hospital with coronavirus on January 4. None of the patients required a mehcanical ventilator.

Between December 25 and December 31, four people died within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test, the figures show, compared to eight people in the previous seven days.

More than 350,000 people had received a booster, or third dose, of a Covid vaccine in Wiltshire as of January 3.

A MAJOR route near Salisbury was closed as heavy rainfall brought flooding to the city and surrounds.

The A338 Salisbury Road at Burgate, pictured, was shut at 9.30pm on Monday, January 9, as flooding made it difficult for vehicles to pass.

HGVs were still allowed to use the route, Hampshire County Council said.

Traffic lights were also installed to manage traffic through the stretch, but it was closed to smaller vehicles at times.

The council said work was being carried out to establish the cause of the problem - and to rectify it.

“Our Highways team is currently working to clear the flood so assessment of the existing highway drainage system can be undertaken, to

see if any maintenance work is required,” a spokesperson said.

“It is worth noting that the surrounding ground remains heavily saturated at the moment following significant rainfall and the river level is currently high.

“This means our surface water drains can be less effective at times, and particularly after further sudden or prolonged heavy raiunfall.”

Meanwhile, Wiltshire Council has moved to warn residents in flood-prone areas to be on their guard as the bad weather continues.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport, Street Scene and flooding, said: “We have had a significant rainfall already this winter, and

further prolonged periods of heavy rainfall may see the Environment Agency issue river or groundwater flood alerts across the county.

“So it is vitally important that people are prepared and that they know what to do in the event of a flood. People should ensure they are signed up for Environment Agency flood alerts, and they can report any flooding incidents or weather emergencies to us through our MyWilts app or website.”

Drivers are sentenced over dramatic crash caught in dash cam video

A MAN has been banned from driving for 18 months after narrowly avoiding a head-on collision on the A303.

The incident, which happened between the Longbarrow roundabout and Winterbourne Stoke on Sunday, September 25 last year, was caught on dramatic dashcam footage.

Wiltshire Police has released the images after one man was convicted of careless driving and another of dangerous driving in relation to the incident.

Chubby Isaac, of Kirby Road, Dartford, was found guilty of dangerous driving.

To avoid colliding with an oncoming vehicle, he hit the front of the lorry he was overtaking and left the road.

The 51-year-old was disqualified from driving for 18-months, given a community order to carry out 135 hours of unpaid work and fined almost £200 in costs when sentenced at

His vehicle followed another van overtaking on a solid white line which was driven by Bronzell Obey, of Firs Lane, Potters Bar.

The 42-year-old was found guilty of careless driving and given four points on his licence along with a fine.

PC Tom Webster, of the Amesbury Response Team, said: “The actions taken by

these two drivers were selfish and thoughtless.

“They put themselves, the occupants of the other vehicles and the public at huge risk. It is incredibly fortunate that nothing more serious happened.”

Fair raises £50,000 for Salisbury Hospital’s charity

THE popular Rockbourne Fair raised more than £50,000 for the Stars Appeal - the Salisbury Hospital charity.

Members of the fair committee handed over £51,482, surpassing the amount raised in 2021, to the president of the appeal, Lord Pembroke, the charity’s Hospital Ambassadors, and hospital chief executive Stacey Hunter.

Bev Moulding, chair of the Rockbourne Fair Committee, said: “We are delighted that Rockbourne Fair 2022 has raised such an incredible amount for the Stars Appeal.

“It was wonderful to see so many people come through the door and enjoy this unique shopping experience - the atmosphere was fantastic.

“This achievement is even more remarkable given the

current economic climate.

“We are extremely grateful to everyone who made the event such a success - for the support of our stallholders, our volunteers and the generosity of everyone who attended. This money will go on to make a big impact on the lives of so many people in Salisbury District Hospital and it’s a great reminder of how we can come together to make a real difference to our community.”

The boutique shopping event, held annually, took place in October at Salisbury Racecourse. The 2023 event will run from October 18 to 20.

Lord Pembroke said: “As someone who has some experience in organising events I really understand the time and also the effort that goes into pulling these things together.

“They can be quite stressful at times but when organisers and the community come together something special happens and we get amazing results, which is clear from the incredible amount raised from the Rockbourne Fair. All I can say is thank you.”

Dave Cates, of the Stars Appeal, said: “This wonderful gift takes us a huge step forward as we seek to fund over £1 million of enhancements at Salisbury District Hospital this year. Thousands of people every week benefit from Stars Appeal

projects from state-of-the-art scanners to accommodation for the parents of sick children, none of our work would be possible without the brilliant support of people like the Rockbourne Fair Committee to whom we extend our most grateful and sincere thanks.”

Projects the Stars Appeal is looking to fund for 2023 include a £142,000 echocardiogram machine, £55,000 to fund new scalp cooling machines to help prevent hair loss for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, a £20,000 brain function monitor and a £15,000 mechanical CPR machine.

To find out more about the Stars Appeal visit starsappeal. org or for the latest on the 2023 Rockbourne Fair go to rockbournefair.org.uk.

Salisbury Magistrates Court on Friday, January 6.

The dramatic crash on the A303 was caught on the dash cam of a lorry which was hit in the incident Picture: Wiltshire Police

Make a Will month returns in aid of Salisbury Hospice Charity

THIS FEBRUARY, ensure that your loved ones are taken care of, and support your local hospice by writing or amending your Will as part of Salisbury Hospice Charity’s Make a Will Month.

During Make a Will Month, participating local solicitors will kindly waive their usual fees in return for a donation. Your donation to Salisbury Hospice will ensure that they can continue to help over 1,000 people each year to die peacefully, with dignity, in a place of their choosing.

Salisbury Hospice Charity is currently celebrating 40 years of providing care to the local community. It aims to raise £1.5 million of the £2.4 million running costs each year. The hospice is the only provider of specialist palliative care in our community and its services are free to patients, their families and carers

Choose from a list of local law firms located in Salisbury, Shaftesbury, Gillingham and Tisbury. Call today to book your February appointment.

Making a Will is one of the most important parts of planning for end of life. By writing a Will you ensure that your

loved ones are looked after in accordance with your wishes. Get this vital task ticked off your to do list and support your local hospice. Give yourself the peace of mind and reassurance, knowing your loved ones are protected.

Anyone interested in taking part in Make a Will Month should contact the law firms directly and quote ‘Salisbury Hospice Charity Make a Will Month’ when making an appointment.

The law firms listed below will all be participating: Parker Bullen, Salisbury

Trethowans, Salisbury

Richard Griffiths & Co, Salisbury

Farnfields, Gillingham

Farnfields, Shaftesbury

Broadrick-Barker & Co, Tisbury salisburyhospicecharity.org.uk/makeawill

Resin-set flowers prove the very epitome of practice makes perfect

Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

HANDMADE JEWELLERY can be a touching and personal gift that means the world to someone. This is what 42-year-old Helen Lack, owner of the jewellery business Silver & Birch, intends for each of her pieces.

Helen started Silver & Birch in June 2012 on the Etsy website. “Pinterest is where I first saw flowers set in resin and I thought it looked really gorgeous,” explains Helen. I didn’t know anything about how they did it at the time, but after a year of research I had perfected the technique with no bubbles and flowers which kept their colour after being set permanently into the resin.”

Although she now works full-time on her business, success only came after a lot of time and determination.

“There is a lot of trial and error making the jewellery as it often goes very wrong. Resin is quite temperamental and you must provide the perfect temperature and drying conditions. But after I perfected my technique I got accepted into lots of shops.

“However, the online marketing side of it is a big learning curve and I had to do a vast

amount of research. I only spend 10% of the day making jewellery and the rest of the time promoting my products. I also got

featured in Country Life Magazine which gave me a massive spike in sales.

“The philosophy is to make something that becomes a heartfelt gift with meaning, especially when I include someone’s favourite flower.

“All my jewellery is made by myself in the UK and I grow the flowers organically in my own garden in the New Forest.”

Helen has many happy memories of satisfied customers.

“One lady wanted me to make gifts for her bridesmaids made out of the bouquet from her wedding. You only need small pieces of the plant for jewellery, so I chose some tiny petals and seeds from the bouquets which made a lovely combination of colours. She was thrilled.

“This year, I am working on all new packaging, which will be completely personal and bespoke, which is being designed by Fordingbridge Print Studio.

“I also have new products, like heartshaped pieces for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. I am also planning to give a portion of my profits to a charity this year.” www.silverandbirch.com

Local landscapes prove selling point for Pippaluk

PIP WHITE is a small business owner making needle felt landscapes which from a distance look like watercolours or pastels.

She started her business –Pippaluk Crafts – in 2015 making felted jewellery, but switched to landscapes to stand out at craft fairs.

“I now create landscapes exclusively,” Pip said. “The felt is mostly merino wool, but I use other materials too, for example, pure silk.

Using wool from different breeds of sheep will give you different textures and appearances when added to landscapes.

“Silk is good for representing water, as it catches the light and is truer white than wool.

“I try to produce mainly local

scenes because tourists like them. I’m usually with Salisbury Art Scene, which is the first Sunday of the month in Salisbury market square.

“The Cuckoo Fair at Downton on the first Saturday in May is another I sell at. I am also due to attend the High Cliff Food Festival on June 10th and the Sherborne Country Fair on 29th May.

Pip also holds workshops and talks for various groups, such as the WI. “I did a workshop at Beaulieu Motor Museum last year. That was a four person workshop, but I do workshops for up to 15 people. Anyone can do it, whether you’re 12 or 90. The only rule is that you have to keep the needle as vertical as possible because otherwise they break really easily.”

Her work has brought delighted responses from customers around the world.

“I’ve had some lovely emails. I made a felt landscape for a lady in New Zealand, who wanted an image for her sister of a New Zealand sheep station. When she saw the final piece she said it was fantastic.

“A more challenging landscape was an African scene. It was based on a special picture some grandparents had brought back for their granddaughter whose parents had a tragic accident. They wanted me to reproduce this image in a way that showed how much they cared about her.

“It was completely out of my comfort zone because I had never done anything with such bright colours. But they later told me they were so happy as

Pip’s business has brought happiness to people from all over the world

their granddaughter loved it, so I was really pleased.

“I love what I do because it really makes a difference to people to share memories together and my landscapes help people cherish memories.” www.pippaluk.co.uk

Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

Helen grows the flowers she then makes into jewellery for her customers

How Ann is using her skills to carve a career out of wood at Folk Salad

Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

MANY PEOPLE use their professionally acquired skills to start a creative small business following retirement.

Ann Miller, owner of the gifts, cards and decorated furniture business Folk Salad Annie, is one such example.

“I’ve been making things and painting for as long as I can remember,” Ann recalls.

“I was an interior designer for 30 years, working on commercial and council buildings before retiring five years ago.

Since retiring, Ann has been busy building her own business that she can now dedicate herself to full-time.

“First, I began selling my products with Kellie at Stuff

Emporium and Jane, the owner of Townhouse Emporium.

“When they transferred from Wilton to Salisbury centre, I moved with them. I’ve also done some fairs, which I now have more time for because I’m doing Folk Salad Annie as my day job.

“I do cut-outs of little cats which have been going very well. But I also source vintage boxes, because I prefer to paint onto wood rather than canvas.

“So I’ve painted a few small wooden blocks, which I put into some exhibitions and sold a few of in the last few years.

“But I really love vintage boxes, because they are very well made and so it’s worth me painting them to make them special so they can belong to someone for many years.

“The other thing that I’ve been doing is journal boxes, which can be boxes of various sizes. I paint the outside of the box with something that the recipient likes, such as cats, beaches or Prosecco.

“And then I match the colours with a notebook and pen inside.

“I always paint something inside as well. Because when I go to fairs, I know that people will pick a box up, see the front and think it looks lovely, and then they open it up, and it’s just an empty box.

“I like to paint something inside the lid, so they get two paintings in effect, because they get one on the top.

Then when they look inside they’ll get a little painting inside as well.

Ann has used the skills she acquired from her interior deisgn career to start Folk Salad Annie

“I love what I do because people can give their loved ones meaningful, custom-painted gifts they can treasure forever and use to record their innermost thoughts.”

Folk Salad Annie can be found on Facebook.

January can be the coldest month but there is plenty to do in the garden

THE START of a new year can often mean the coldest weather in the garden.

While New Year resolutions aren’t for everyone, this is a great time to plan out your intentions for the coming year.

Intentions begin with preparation, so once you’ve made your list you can start on the jobs that need doing to turn your vision into fruition.

Check and prepare

You can make a start by ensuring everything is in good working order. This means cleaning all your pots, tools, water butts and greenhouses in preparation for spring sowing.

Cleaning a greenhouse may not make your gardening blood flow but by removing algae, moss and grime, you will give your plants a head start by letting in more light, with the added bonus of also controlling any lingering pests and diseases.

High winds, cold spells and rain are all enemies of your garden, so regularly checking stakes, supports, ties, fences and unprotected furniture, and tackling any damage will be a very good use of your time.

Outside, any vacant plots that you have not been able to tackle yet can be dug over if the weather permits.

Check your winter protection is still working for you — survey any stakes, supports and ties that might have been damaged in bad weather.

Continue looking after the wildlife that lives in and visits your garden— put out wild bird food for hungry birds (see recipe below) and continue to leave some areas of your garden uncut for shelter until the spring.

Providing food, water and shelter for wildlife in your garden will help maintain biodiversity and improve your garden’s health.

What to grow

Of course, you can indulge your need to grow at this time of year. You can plant bare root roses, chit your first early potatoes and start your sweet pea seeds.

Other plants to sow include antirrhinum, begonia, geranium, lobelia and verbena seeds.

Perennials, such as anemone, auricular, aquilegia, hollyhock and kniphofia, can also be sown during January.

Rhubarb

If you are anything like me, you’ll think that rhubarb is too often overlooked. If you grow your own, you can prepare an early crop of rhubarb by placing a forcer, or a large container (turned upside down), over the emerging growth.

Keeping the crown in darkness will force the stalks to search and reach for light, accelerating the growth.

Two months later, the stalks should have grown to approximately 20-30cm and should be ready to eat. Rhubarb crumble enthusiasts, take note.

Let a sleeping queen lie

If you find yourself digging your garden on a fine day this month there is a small chance that you might unearth something special in your soil.

While you are unlikely to find shiny treasure in your topsoil, you might accidentally unearth a hibernating Queen Bee. If you do, don’t panic. There is no need to bury her again.

Instead, move her carefully to a cold and dry place and provide her with a sugar solution that is equal parts sugar and water – a bottle top is good for this.

By doing this, she can continue hibernating but if she wakes you’ve given her a sugar kick that will help her find a hibernating place somewhere more to her liking.

Making bird food and a feeder for a winter’s day

You don’t need a fancy bird table or feeder to help out our avian friends this winter.

This bird food and feeder idea comes from the RSPB and would be an ideal activity to carry out with children or grandchildren.

Once finished, the feeders can be attached to trees or fences or somewhere else that would provide safety from predators.

Quick word of warning, the food is not suitable for dogs or cats, so position accordingly and is unsuitable for anyone with a nut allergy. I shouldn’t need to say that you shouldn’t eat the bird food, but I have.

You will need:

Good quality bird seed; Raisins; Peanuts; Grated cheese; Suet or lard; Yoghurt pots; Some suitably strong string; A mixing bowl; Scissors

Method:

Carefully make a small hole in the bottom of a yoghurt pot. Thread the string through the hole and tie a knot on the inside, ensuring it is large enough that it doesn’t pop out again.

Leave enough string so that you can tie the pot to a tree or another appropriate place.

Warm the lard to room temperature. Then cut it up into small pieces and put it in the mixing bowl. Now you can add the other ingredients and mix them together with your finger tips. As you add the ingredients, keep squidging it until the fat holds it all together.

Fill your yoghurt pots with the bird cake mixture and put them in the fridge to set for an hour or so. This will stop the contents from simply falling out once you hang them up.

Hang your pots and keep an eye out for hungry birds. The RSPB suggests the cake might attract greenfinches, tits and great spotted woodpeckers.

You can help ground feeding birds like robins, thrushes and blackbirds by putting seeds, chopped apples and grated cheese on a purpose-built station or platform raised just a few centimetres from the ground.

Top: Dig over any vacant plots Right: Use a forcer to accelerate rhubarb growth

Barn owls in winter: an uphill struggle when the weather turns

by Emily Ryland-Langley, director, TWO Bird Experiences

AS GREENHOUSE gas emissions surround the earth and global warming continues at an alarming rate, we will continue to get more extreme seasons and the weather that comes with them.

So what effect does this have on our native birdlife, and in particular, on our Barn owl population?

Barn owls are the ultimate stealth hunter, perfectly adapted to find and catch small mammals. However, as a specialist predator, when the prey disappears and the conditions aren’t right, Barn owls struggle to survive.

Barn owls have specialist feathers across their body to give them near silent flight. Some of these feathers break up turbulence, some trap air and all are extremely light.

However, this comes at a price, the feathers are not very waterproof which means when downpours hit, wing beats can instead become loud, laboured and the birds can even become completely grounded.

A wet barn owl can weigh three times as much as a dry one. It is not just getting soggy that

can be a problem for the UK’s ‘Ghost owl’. Dropping temperatures will make small mammals far less active, meaning they make less noise and, in turn, are far harder to catch.

Barn owls need to eat three or four prey items a day, so as the frosts set in food becomes harder to find at a time when Barn Owls need it most. It is not surprising then that the main cause of death in Barn owls is starvation, with mortality peaking between December and March.

I think we can safely say that winter is a Barn owl’s least favourite time of year, so what coping strategies do they have to get through it?

Barn owls will do all they can in cold temperatures to keep warm and conserve energy. They will alter hunting behaviour from circuiting flights to perch and pounce attacks and, in sub-zero temperatures, will hunt during the day when it is warmer and when prey are more active.

A crucial survival skill for an owl is to map out its home range and identify the optimum hunting habitat for current conditions. This means, when provided with any breaks in the weather, they can travel straight to an area with higher prey

Volunteer down on the reserve this month

IF YOU fancy some volunteering work this month and you want to immerse yourself in the natural world, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has just the opportunity for you.

The Trust is looking for volunteers to join its friendly and sociable group to help out with varied tasks designed to maintain its Devenish Reserve at Little Durnford, near Salisbury.

No experience is required and all tools will be provided. It’s free to take part but you will need to book and the work might involve climbing a steep slope.

The work begins at 10m on 23 January, clocking off at 3pm.

Contact Richard Death 01722 333064 or RNDEATH@ hotmail.com for more details.

availability and, hopefully, return home with a meal.

This is where you come in. Owls will do all they can to ensure they have a dry and warm roost to return to after a hunt. In the past, Barn owls would nest inside agricultural buildings, however, many of these have been knocked down or replaced/renovated with modern structures.

While reconstructing whole barns is unfeasible, one thing you can do is look into the Barn Owl Nest Box Programme to see if your house or land is suitable for a box to be installed that will help our beautiful Barn

owls get through the Winter. Who knows, you may be lucky enough to see some fluffy owlets pop out of the box come summertime.

Head to the Barn owl Trust website for details:

● To make a box – https:// www.barnowltrust.org.uk/ barn-owl-nestbox/barn-owlnestboxes/

● To build a box – https:// www.barnowltrust.org.uk/ product-category/nestboxes/

● For current research – https:// www.hawk-conservancy.org/ conservation-research/uk/ www.twobirdexperiences.co.uk

More visas promised for seasonal workers in the UK

THE GOVERNMENT has provided a boost to a number of industries and sectors, such as the horticulture industry, that rely on seasonal workers from overseas to bolster workforce numbers.

The government has announced the provision of 45,000 visas for seasonal workers in 2023.

The figure represents an uplift of 15,000 compared to what was available to businesses at the start

of 2022. This number is due to be kept under review with the potential for it to increase by a further 10,000 if necessary.

Any potential increase would also be contingent on the sponsors and growers improving and abiding by worker welfare standards, including ensuring all workers are guaranteed a minimum number of paid hours each week.

Words and photo

Nola, the Barn owl in full flight

THE NFU’S vice president

David Exwood has written to farming minister, Mark Spencer, asking the government to act on the recommendations set out in the Rock Review into agricultural tenancies.

The review was carried out under the leadership of Baroness Kate Rock, chair of Defra’s Tenancy Working Group, with the final report originally published midOctober 2022.

It looked at how accessible the government’s financial schemes are to tenant farmers as well long-term changes in the tenanted sector. It also looked into how tenant farmers could be better supported to secure the future of agricultural tenants.

The review covered landlordtenant relationships, as well as changes to legislation and tax arrangements, with its

conclusions emphasising the need to create a resilient agricultural tenanted sector for the future, and balancing the rights of tenants and landlords.

The NFU published its response shortly after the review was made available.

Of the more than 70 detailed recommendations, the NFU highlighted 18 ‘headlines’, 10 of which it told the government needed urgent and immediate attention.

Exwood’s letter pressed on the government the urgency of implementing these headline recommendations.

It highlighted the crucial role that tenant farmers play in securing food security and environmental targets and the NFU’s strong support for tenants to have access to Defra’s agricultural transition measures.

He suggested there were ‘real areas of concern’ in the review that needed to be addressed if tenant farmers were not to be ‘severely disadvantaged’ in accessing government schemes, and when trying to preserve and grow their business.

Failure to do so, Exwood warned, would mean the government would not be able ‘to deliver on its vision for a robust, vibrant and thriving agricultural tenanted sector’.

There are approximately 8.9 million farmable hectares in England, with 64% held under whole or part tenant holdings. The average length of new farm business tenancies is just over three years.

“The Rock Review and the Report is an exceptionally important piece of work. It has been consulted on and

considered widely across the NFU and with our members,” Exwood wrote. “It provides a clear case to policy makers to recognise and include the tenanted sector in policy development by integrating these recommendations and considering how they should be implemented not only for the good of tenant farmers, but for the farming industry as a whole.

“Only then will we achieve a truly holistic approach that supports the long-term resilience of the sector and delivers on food production and environmental goals.”

Agreeing with Defra, the NFU believes increased ‘eligibility and flexibility’ would be key to removing barriers for entry to the sector which would lead to greater participation.

https://www.nfuonline.com/

Government to pay more to farmers who enhance the environment

FARMERS ARE being urged by the government to take advantage of the benefits of increased payments available under its Environmental Land Management schemes for protecting and enhancing nature and delivering sustainable food production.

Speaking at the Oxford Farming Conference, minister Mark Spencer MP announced more money for farmers and landowners through both the Countryside Stewardship and the Sustainable Farming Incentive schemes, which will provide further support to the industry at a time of rising costs for farmers as a result of global challenges.

He also confirmed that an expanded range of actions under the schemes, which farmers could be paid for, would be published soon.

The changes mean farmers could receive up to a further £1,000 per year for taking nature-friendly action through the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI).

This new Management Payment will be made for the first 50 hectares of farm (£20/ha) in an SFI agreement, to cover the administrative costs of participation and to attract smaller businesses – many of whom are tenant farmers – who are currently under-represented in the scheme.

SFI is already paying farmers to improve soil and moorlands,

and an expanded set of standards for 2023 is expected to be published shortly.

In addition, farmers with a Countryside Stewardship (CS) agreement, of which there are now 30,000 across England, will see an average increase of 10% to their revenue payment rates – covering ongoing activity such as habitat management.

Defra is also updating capital payment rates, which cover oneoff projects such as hedgerow creation, with an average increase of 48%.

Meanwhile, capital and annual maintenance payments for the England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) and Tree Health Pilot (THP) will also be updated this year, helping to incentivise farmers to incorporate more trees as a valuable natural resource on farms.

Taken together, these changes will mean more farmers taking individual positive actions such as creating hedgerows and flower-rich grass areas on the edge of fields and will support farmers and landowners in making space for nature alongside sustainable food production.

The government believes that uptake of the scheme will help it meet the UK’s legally binding environment targets and contribute to its aim of halting biodiversity loss by 2030, agreed at COP15 in December last year, while supporting the

Above: Farms will be paid for taking nature-friendly action

Right: Mark Spencer MP

industry to farm more homegrown produce and take advantage of innovation.

Farming Minister, Mark Spencer said: “My challenge to our great industry is simple –this year, take another look at the Environmental Land Management schemes and think about what options and grants will help support your farm.

“As custodians of more than 70% of our countryside, the nation is relying on its farmers to protect our landscapes as well as produce the high-quality food we are known for, and we are increasing payment rates to ensure farmers are not out of pocket for doing the right thing by the environment.

“By increasing the investment in these schemes, I want farmers to see this stacks up for business – whatever the size of your holding.”

Under the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, which the UK has now left, farmers received payments based on how much land they held, meaning half the available cash went to the top 10%. Outside the EU, the UK is bringing in a new system which is designed in the best interests of our industry, in partnership with the sector.

As the UK works towards its targets of halting the decline of

nature by 2030 and hitting net zero by 2050 the system, which is being phased in by 2027-8, puts money into farmers’ pockets and the wider rural economy based on actions taken to enhance nature and drive innovation in agriculture.

These increased payments also recognise the challenges of rising input costs and other pressures which are being felt across the sector.

The government wants the SFI Management Payment to drive uptake in the scheme among all farmers, including smaller farms who are currently under-represented in environmental schemes.

SFI was designed with tenant farmers firmly in mind and is more accessible to them thanks to shorter, three-year agreements and allowing tenants on shorter contracts to enter into the scheme without the need for landlord consent.

Thank you for your stamp donations

BELOW is a letter published on behalf of Mrs E Rodber, of Salisbury.

Mrs Rodber collects used stamps for the Donkey Sanctuary charity and wished to publish the letter for all those who donate their stamps

We are happy to help get the message out!

Thank you for your kind donation of used stamps to help raise money for the donkeys. We are still accepting used stamps, we are able to sell them to a local stamp dealer for a good price.

The money that we raise will go towards helping donkeys and mules across the globe.

Many donkeys suffer appalling conditions while carrying out essential jobs, such as toiling in the brick kilns of India, or carrying vital supplies for rural communities in Africa.

Thanks to supporters like you, we are on hand, educating people to look after their donkeys better and treating wounds and injuries so that donkeys lead healthier and more comfortable lives.

Thank you.

THE DONKEY SANCTUARY Sidmouth, Devon

Can we blame the government?

SO, we all know the country is in a dire financial state.

But there are a few things everyone cares to forget when they complain about the government not wanting to give nurses and train drivers - to name a few - more money.

Firstly, we have to look at Covid.

The government paid for business to survive during that period, which enabled workers to be paid and most people to financially survive the pandemic.

Now, we all know a few schemes went wrong and some

Picture of the week

unscrupulous people and companies took advantage while the government rushed to try and get enough PPE.

But no one had any experience of the situation, so mistakes were made. I am sure they did their best.

Now we are all complaining that there is no one to do all the jobs in the NHS, to drive trucks to deliver food, or drive buses and all the other unskilled jobs.

The fact is we voted for Brexit, which effectively said to many Europeans, ‘don’t come to the UK’.

We told the rest of the world we didn’t want to lose jobs, so they went to other countries to work.

Nurses, doctors, drivers, care workers all went somewhere else.

We can’t blame the government when there are shortages in certain industries. It is, effectively, what many people voted for.

ANONYMOUS via email

Please, get a grip on planning!

FURTHER to your story in edition number 4 of your excellent magazine (‘Council’s invite to visit city is for for a king!’, Edition 4), I struggle to see why the King would choose to visit Salisbury at the moment!

I’m not even a royal and at the moment, I struggle to find the desire to visit the city centre.

Not only is it a nightmare to get in due to so many roadworks, not to mention paying for parking, but when I get there I am not impressed.

Our city used to give such an impression of historic importance, but now I just see modern flats and houses on every available scrap of land.

Who is allowing these things to be built? Someone needs to get a grip on planning in Salisbury, because we are in danger of losing the identity that makes us so popular with visitors.Get a grip planners!

NAME AND ADDRESS

Tip-offs needed to stop shifty tippers

IT was good to read about the flytippers in Downton being fined (‘Downton flytippers convicted following threemonth operation’, Edition 6).

It seems to me this is a crime that too often goes unpunished. There definitely needs to be more done to prevent this happening and blighting our wonderful landscape.

There are any number of cowboy companies out there who will promise the best price on disposing of waste - and in a cost of living crisis this is attractive to many.

The council and police should be working to target these people and making sure they pay their way if they step out of line.

You can’t blame people for trying to do things as cheaply as possible, but the authorities know this is happening and should do more to stop it.

Our picture of the week comes as Salisbury and beyond deal with continued bad weather. This photograph, of the view from the closed A338 near Salisbury, was posted by Hampshire County Council Council. Send your photographs to newsdesk@salisburyandavon.co.uk

Pets

How to keep your pets safe when winter flood waters starts to rise

Advice from PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need

USUALLY, minor flooding causes little-to-no disruption and often clears after a day or so. However, if you live in an area prone to flooding or if it rains a lot more than usual, it can cause a lot of disruption and danger for you, your family, and your pets.

Without a doubt, our precious pets are part of the family, and the thought of losing them or leaving them behind in an emergency is unthinkable.

However, by being prepared and taking the time to understand what you should (and shouldn’t!) do, you can ensure your family’s and your pets’ safety if you are faced with severe flooding.

How to prepare for floods

Though wintertime is usually when most floods occur, it’s important to know that they can happen at any time of the year.

If you live in an area prone to flooding (e.g. near a river, a large lake, or the sea), you should always keep a close eye on weather warnings so you can act fast.

Stay alert

According to the Environment Agency, 5.9 million properties (or 1 in 6 homes) across England are at risk of flooding – find out if your home is one of them.

Sign up to receive flood warnings – you can choose to be notified through a telephone call, a text message or an email.

Visit the MET Office or Environment Agency website for the latest information on the weather or any warnings in your area. Keep up to date with local news and weather reports.

Remember, floodwater rises rapidly. If there is a flood warning in your immediate area, don’t just hope for the best – act early.

Be prepared

Make sure your pets are microchipped and the contact details registered on the chip are up to date. Should you and your pet separate, having the correct contact details means you are more likely to be reunited.

Keep a bag of emergency pet supplies, including a week’s worth of sealed pet food, water, collapsible food bowls, poo bags, bedding, lead, medication and proof of vaccinations.

Create an emergency flood plan with a planned escape route, and keep your emergency supplies in one place for easy access. Always have a pet carrier for your cat or small pets in your home and ensure they are desensitised to being in one. Never leave pets unattended inside a carrier in a flooding situation.

If you live in a high-risk area, consider getting life jackets for yourself, your family members and your pets.

Make sure your pet insurance is up to date and you have your vet’s contact details to hand in case your pet needs veterinary care. Check your home insurance policy to see if you’re covered for the cost of pet accommodation if damage to the home means you cannot stay there.

Put important documents (e.g. microchip paperwork, vet

details, insurance policies) in a sealed waterproof bag, along with a photo of your pet in case they get lost. Know what pet sitters or boarding kennels are available locally should you need to find temporary accommodation for your pets. Remember, floodwater is often contaminated and could harm your pet if swallowed. Dog vaccinations protect against Leptospirosis, a disease caused by bacteria found in and around water (including floodwater) that can be fatal. Check that your dog is up to date with all vaccinations.

Staying safe during a flood

If there is flooding in your area, here are a few things to remember to keep your pet safe:

● If any flood water comes into your home (or is likely to), bring pets that live outdoors inside and shut your pets in a room upstairs with access to plenty of food and fresh water.

● Don’t take your dog outside until it’s safe to do so. For their safety, you should also keep them well away from any flood water as hidden objects within the water could injure them.

● Prevent cats from becoming stranded, lost or injured as a result of rising flood water by

keeping them indoors with access to a litter tray.

● Try to ensure different species of pets are kept separate from each other because they are naturally territorial.

What to do if you have to leave your home

If your home is at risk of flooding, you may need to leave quickly. Here’s what to do if you’re told to evacuate:

● If possible, find somewhere to stay (e.g. at a friend or relative’s house) that is on higher ground.

● Take your pets and their emergency supplies with you and check your dog has a collar and ID tag on before you leave.

● Be aware that your insurance company may move you into temporary accommodation and it might not be possible for your pets to stay with you. In this instance, be prepared to use a boarding kennel or pet sitter.

● If you are unable to leave your home in time, stay in an upstairs room with your pets.

● You may have no choice but to leave your pets behind. No one wants to do this, but it’s important to follow advice from the emergency services.

● You should leave your pets in a safe room upstairs with plenty of food and water, and put a notice on your door or windows to let the emergency services know there are pets inside.

● Once you’re safe, contact the RSPCA or a local flood warden to tell them there are animals in your home that need rescuing. The RSPCA is part of Defra’s National Flood Response Team and has Animal Rescue teams who are trained and ready to help with any animals in need during adverse weather.

Credit: Kelsey Mirehouse/Unsplash

Bouncy beagles and springy spaniels among dogs looking for new homes

JESS

Breed: Beagle Cross Age: 6 Jess’ ideal home would be adult only; however, this could be lowered slightly dependant on experience and confidence of any younger adults in the home.

Jess has shown guarding behaviours around items of high value such as toys and food. It’s important that Jess doesn’t have access to the kitchen in her new home as she will counter surf and steal food items!

Jess can find some people quite scary therefore will be required to stay on lead and wear her muzzle out on walks.

AITCH

Breed: Amercian Bulldog Age: 3

Aitch is full of character!

He is a large, bouncy boy who has shown some grabby behaviours.

For this reason he would best suit an adult only home.

He would love patient owners who can be around to help him settle into his new home.

He would prefer to be the only pet in the home but can potentially have some tolerant

She will also need her own room where she can go to relax when visitors come round.

Jess does need to be the only pet in the home.

A home with secure, lockable doors is essential. She will also require her own, secure garden. Jess’s new home should be in a quiet area away from roads.

CHESTER

Breed: Spaniel Age: 8+

Chester would be quite happy with a companion to enjoy the outdoors, tasty meals and a comfy bed. Because of this he would suit a home where there are leaving hours in the day.

His new home will need an outdoor kennel or a room of his own that has direct access into the garden, in a single person household but he could potentially live with a

maximum of two people.

He is pretty aloof so will need to be the only dog in the home. He isn’t suitable to live with cats or small furries.

walking friends!

At the centre Aitch has taken a keen interest in his training so would enjoy and benefit from continuing this with his new family.

DIESEL

Breed: Italian Corso

Age: 10 months Bouncy Diesel is an excitable Cane Corso.

He can be a little worried by new people but with a tasty treat or two he’ll soon be your best friend!

Diesel can live with teenagers aged 16 and above.

He will need to be the only

pet in the home but would benefit from continued socialisation with doggy friends on walks.

Diesel can be very bouncy and clumsy when meeting other dogs!

He does prefer walking in quieter areas away from too much hustle and bustle.

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

Cryptic crossword

Circuitous movement in whole or small part (5)

Stick put in part of reactor gets to deteriorate (7)

Someone with an instinctive aptitude for buff colour (7)

Unspoken merit a citation seals (5)

One pillaging place in the control of monarch (9)

Take action against endless fatty tissue (3)

Brood? It’s old-fashioned on reflection (3)

Down 1 Unite at college and enlist (4,2)

2 Get in the way of work of court around summertime in the UK? (8)

3 Excite gentleman touring Thailand (4)

4 Prophetic artist discounted concerning vision? (6)

5 Members in order? Three are converted Britain and Norway (8)

Across

Across 8 Circuitous movement in whole or small part (5) 9 Stick put in part of reactor gets to deteriorate (7) 10 Someone with an instinctive aptitude for buff colour (7) 11 Unspoken merit a citation seals (5) 12 One pillaging place in the control of monarch (9) 14 Take action against endless fatty tissue (3) 15 Brood? It’s old-fashioned on reflection (3)

6 Necklace actor carefully conceals (4)

Card? It’s fine around clubs with small amount of money (9) 19 It could supply a connection, it’s said, in set of notes (5) 21 Stay possibly around North America with liberal economic expert? (7)

Card? It’s fine around clubs with small amount of money (9) 19 It could supply a connection, it’s said, in set of notes (5)

Stay possibly around North America with liberal economic expert? (7)

Circuitous movement in whole or small part (5)

Advertising body to reign usually (2,1,4)

Follow translator with trouble (5)

Stick put in part of reactor gets to deteriorate (7)

Someone with an instinctive aptitude for buff colour (7)

Unspoken merit a citation seals (5)

One pillaging place in the control of monarch (9)

Take action against endless fatty tissue (3)

Brood? It’s old-fashioned on reflection (3)

It’s

Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and boldlined 3x3 box. No digit maybe repeated in any dashed-lined cage, and each dash-lined cage must result in the given value when the stated operation is applied between all of the digits in that cage. For subtraction and division operations, start with the highest number in the cage and then subtract or divide by the other numbers in that cage

7 Arrange support for driving seat (6)

13 Terrible director broke rule accepting commercial fine (8)

14 Party moved into medical facility for beauty treatment (5,3)

Advertising body to reign usually (2,1,4)

Follow translator with trouble (5)

15 Friendly college I found in rising Asian country (6)

Unite at college and enlist (4,2)

Get in the way of work of court around summertime in the UK? (8)

Excite gentleman touring Thailand (4)

17 Check renovation of pale section in church 18 Pet let out finds farm animals (6) 20 Old friend brings precious stone (4) 22 Political group losing power interested in aesthetics? (4)

Prophetic artist discounted concerning vision? (6)

Members in order? Three are converted in Britain and Norway (8)

Necklace actor carefully conceals (4)

Arrange support for driving seat (6)

Terrible director broke rule accepting commercial fine (8)

Friendly college I found in rising Asian country (6)

Check renovation of pale section in church (6)

Pet let out finds farm animals (6)

Double vision at the Mill as artists display street art and cast glass

THREE local artists, all members of ‘Plain Arts Salisbury’, will present an eclectic body of artwork at Fisherton Mill, Salisbury, from February 11 until March 11.

Double Vision will explore the relationship between the artist (the inspirations and viewpoints that support their individual work), and the viewer and what they see, feel and take away from the interaction, a response that is always highly personal and sometimes quite unexpected. Such is the beauty and joy of art.

David Walker’s photography focuses on the extraordinary development of street art and how it grows organically within existing environments.

His extensive globe-trotting has given him the opportunity to reflect sensitively on the social infrastructure of many cultures.

He can often be found walking around the streets of London or New York and stumbling on some of the most

amazing images you could imagine.

Scarlet Leatham has always been drawn to colour, light and form, especially in relation to nature and architecture, the latter of which often draws on the natural world for inspiration.

Patterns in nature and seeing buildings or the landscape from unusual angles are themes that feature in her work.

She often uses a macro lens to highlight a particular aspect of what she sees in order to challenge the viewer to look more closely at something that might otherwise be passed by without a second thought.

Geraldine McLoughlin works with kiln-formed and cast

glass, which provides an unmatched opportunity for innovation.

Pushing the boundaries through temperature control and experimentation, Geraldine enjoys the interplay between intellectual stimulation and the tactile manipulation of the material. Her work is influenced by water in all its forms, by conservation and by earth patterns. Her glass works can be placed indoors or out.

Double Vision can be viewed at Fisherton Mill in the Main Gallery on the first floor during normal opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm and Saturday from 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Each artist will spend time at the gallery should anyone wish to find out more about their work – Scarlet will be at the gallery on Saturday, 18th February, Geraldine on Saturday, 25th February and David on Saturday, 4th March from 11am to 4pm.

Admission is free.

Casting announced for Aykbourn’s How the Other Half Loves at the Playhouse

WILTSHIRE CREATIVE has released full casting details for its production of Alan Ayckbourn’s How the Other Half Loves.

Three couples. Two dining rooms. One big mess. The lives of three couples frantically intertwine in this classic Ayckbourn comedy of confusion and chaos.

When one of the women arrives home suspiciously late one night, a chain of events unfolds drawing each of the couples ever deeper into hilarious misunderstanding.

Gareth Machin, Wiltshire Creative’s artistic director, directs Sam Alexander (William

Featherstone), Sherry Baines (Fiona Foster), Philip Bretherton (Frank Foster), and Rebecca Cooper (Mary Featherstone), Haydn Oakley (Bob Phillips), and Joanna van Kampen (Teresa Phillips).

The production opens on 14 February, with previews

from 9 February. The play runs until 4 March.

Many of the actors are making a return to Salisbury Playhouse. Rebecca Cooper featured in Snow White and the Happy Ever After Beauty Salon, and Her Naked Skin. Haydn Oakley was in Betty Blue Eyes, Philip

Bretheron and Sherry Baines were both in Before The Party, and Joanna van Kampen featured in The Magna Carta Plays. Sam Alexander (pictured above) will make his playhouse debut.

Gareth Machin said: “I am thrilled to announce the brilliant cast for How the Other Half Loves.

“I can’t wait to watch these six talented actors bring Ayckbourn’s comedy to life as they explore the complex narratives of matrimonial relationships.”

The artists explore the relationship between the artist and the viewer

Cowboys and phantoms: Group talk on the rise of the modern musical

THE ARTS Society Salisbury closed its 2022 programme in December with a talk by Ian Gledhill on the development of the modern musical after the Second World War.

St Francis Church in Beatrice Road, Salisbury, rang out with music from post-war musicals ranging from Oklahoma to the Phantom of the Opera.

Oklahoma was the first collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein and was produced in 1943. It was ground-breaking in that it was the first musical that used songs to move the story along.

The next major production was The Boyfriend in 1953 which was a British production by Sandy Milson. Stylistically, this was a throwback to the 1920s. The characters Sandy and Julian in the radio series, Round

the Horne, were named after Sandy Milson and Julian Slade. The latter went on to write Salad Days, where a young Julie Andrews was first spotted, although she was to make her name in My Fair Lady.

Up until 1947, musicals had featured little dancing. However, Jerome Robbins, a renowned choreographer, had the idea for a musical based on the story of Romeo and Juliet. He spoke to Leonard Bernstein and 10 years later, West Side Story was staged, with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

From the 60s, Andrew Lloyd Webber brought about a revolution in modern musicals. Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ, Superstar and more.

In America, the 70s saw Stephen Sondheim become a

very influential composer. Having written lyrics, he went on to write the music as well for 18 musicals including Gypsy, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, and Sweeney Todd.

Lloyd-Webber’s Cats was the first musical written with the tourist market in mind. It ran in the UK for 21 years. The current record is held by Les Miserables which, until the enforced Covid-19 interruption, had been running continuously for 40 years.

Phantom of the Opera, another Lloyd-Webber musical, holds the record if one combines the West End and Broadway and it was to one of the duets from this musical that the meeting closed.

The Arts Society has an exciting and varied new

programme planned for 2023, ranging from Marc Allum’s talk on the 1951 Festival of Britain to Mark Ovenden’s look at design in the 1960s.

The first meeting of 2023 was held on January 10 at St Francis Church. Lecturer, Guy Rooker, discussed how Leonardo da Vinci made accurate drawings of the six layers of anatomy of the hand. As well as how the artist investigated its form and function.

For those who wish to join the Arts Society Salisbury, annual subscription is £45 for 10 lectures, pro rata through the year, or you can join a meeting as a guest for £7 for a taste of what the society offers.

See theartssocietysalisbury.org. uk, or The Arts Society Salisbury on Facebook.

Beer lovers unite! Winterfest Beer Festival returns after three years

SALISBURY’S winter beer and cider festival will make a welcome return to the city at the end of the month.

After a three-year absence, the event will take place in a new home at Brown Street on January 27 and 28 with organisers promising the same focus on top quality cask ales, real ciders and the same relaxed conversationled atmosphere.

It will be the 24th Winterfest organised by the Salisbury and South Wilts branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), which champions local pubs and breweries.

So it is no surprise that the 24 cask ales on sale will include beers from Downton Brewery, Stonehenge Ales at Netheravon, Small Paul from

Gillingham and Sixpenny Brewery, near Cranborne. Five real ciders will also be available.

“It is wonderful that Winterfest is back after an enforced absence of three years to brighten the scene in Salisbury in late January,” said Ian Turner, chairman of the Salisbury & South Wilts branch of Camra.

“So many people have missed it – Camra volunteers who enjoy organising it and our loyal supporters who love this chance to sample a great range of beers and ciders.

“We are particularly grateful to Amanda and Jonty Newbery, owners of the Brown Street venue, for providing us with a new home.”

Winterfest also has a new logo, designed by wellknown local artist Fred Fieber.

The event runs from 6.30pm to 11.30pm and on Saturday, January 28 from 11am to 8pm.

Tickets cost £8 per person per day, which include a free glass and souvenir programme.

Drinks will be sold in half pint and one-third of a pint measures and card-carrying CAMRA members get half a pint free.

Food will also be available for visitors.

Tickets are available from www.tckty.camra.org. uk/e/99/salisbury-winterfestxxiv and www. salisburycamra.org.uk/ events.

Art trail success set to continue for care home and Phoenix Artists

LOCAL group Phoenix Artists has been invited to exhibit at Milford House Care Home for one month starting on 19 January. Both are members of Plain Arts Salisbury.

The exhibition builds on the success of Milford House being a venue as part of the Salisbury Art Trail in autumn 2022 and wanting to continue the initiative in 2023.

Gemma Hicks, general manager at Milford House, said: “We had such lovely comments as a result of the last exhibition from both the visitors, who enjoyed a spacious and relaxed venue in which to view the art, and the residents, family members and staff who thoroughly enjoyed meeting the artists and seeing their work during the exhibition.

We are really looking forward to seeing the work of

the Phoenix Artists hanging in the home and it will be a special event to kick off the New Year.”

Mel Cane, Mary Gibson and Liz Hoppe of Phoenix Artists work out of a riverside studio in Laverstock.

Artist Mel Cane has been painting and drawing for more than 45 years and as part of Phoenix Artists exhibits her intricate pen work and paintings of woodlands, meadows and floral art regularly in the area.

Mary Gibson started to paint after taking early retirement from a teaching career and has recently joined Phoenix Artists. She works in a variety of media, including watercolour and detailed pen drawings of local scenes and sometimes undertakes acrylic work, mostly of astronomical subjects or animals.

She is also trained in calligraphy and enjoys producing unique art works and sheets of attractive paper for use in craft work.

Liz Hoppe’s style tends towards pure traditional watercolours and she loves painting rural scenes as well as vignettes of village characters in local settings.

The exhibition will be available to view on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 11am and 4pm, or by appointment.

End of class in sight for temporary classrooms at Salisbury school

TEMPORARY classrooms at a Salisbury school will stay in place - until plans for a permanent structure are finalised.

Bishop Wordsworth School, in Exeter Street, has applied for retrospective planning permission to extend the time allowed for the temporary buildings.

Two buildings currently house four teaching areas at the 1,000-pupil school.

Funding has been approved for a new, permanent block to replace them, but while plans are being drawn up, the permission for the temporary structures has expired.

“This is a temporary extension for these buildings while a planning application is prepared for a new permanent teaching block to replace them,” the application said.

“It is intended that this will be

submitted before the end of 2022 and therefore an extension to the existing planning permission is required.”

Permission for the mobiles was initially approved in 1994, the application says, with the extension simply to ‘a permanent teaching block has been approved and built’.

“The extension of the existing application for the location of the temporary classrooms will allow the school to use these buildings while the application is being assessed and determined,” it adds.

“It is hoped that through carrying out these works the reliance on temporary accommodation across the school site will be reduced and new purpose-built teaching accommodation can be provided for the school.”

The scheme is now out to consultation, before being

considered by Wiltshire Council.

For more details, and to comment on the plans, log on to

www.wiltshire.gov.uk and search for application reference PL/2022/09219.

Adult education programmes rated as ‘good’ by Ofsted inspectors

ADULT and community education programmes in Wiltshire have been rated as ‘good’ by inspectors.

Services provided by Wiltshire Council have been inspected by Ofsted, with their report saying learners ‘feel well supported by tutors who help them build their self-confidence and improve their wellbeing’.

The inspectors carried out an inspection of the Family and Community Learning service, known as FaCL, in November.

FaCL provides education programmes for adults in well-being, skills for independent living and work skills.

The council also provides programmes in English for speakers of other languages who are resettling in the county.

Cllr Laura Mayes, pictured, cabinet member for education and skills, said she was ‘delighted’ with the rating.

“Wiltshire Council is committed to ensuring that people are empowered and have the skills to lead full and enriched lives,” she said.

“I am delighted that Ofsted recognised the quality of the courses provided by our Family and Community Learning service during their inspection.

“Inspectors noted the productive partnerships that have been established with charitable and community organisations. Courses are jointly planned to meet the needs of residents.

“An example of this is the collaboration with Wiltshire Councils FUEL programme, with courses scheduled at a venue close to where the adult learners’ children participated in sports and healthy eating activities.”

Clifford Shaw, the lead Ofsted inspector, wrote in his report: “Learners enjoy their

courses and attend regularly, and most complete their learning programmes in full and successfully.

“They feel well supported by tutors who help them build their self-confidence and improve their well-being.

“Leaders have responded quickly and devised an ambitious curriculum to meet the needs of refugees resettling in the United Kingdom.

“They work closely with other services provided by Wiltshire Council, such as housing, transport, and children’s services, to support adults and their families to take part in learning and be part of their communities.”

FaCL has a number of courses upcoming in January including wellbeing and boosting employability skills.

For more information on courses and how to apply, visit the Work Wiltshire website at workwiltshire.co.uk/family-andcommunity-learning.

The temporary classrooms currently in situ at the school

Picture: Google

Five-year-plan driving Salisbury FC Women’s team to greater heights

IT’S FAIR to say, Salisbury FC Women’s team is having a good season. Sitting third in the Wiltshire Ladies Premier League with seven wins, the team’s only defeats have come against the two teams above them in the table.

The team most recently beat visited Westbury Youth FC Ladies, coming away with an excellent 3-1 victory thanks to goals from Zoe Alcock, Ellen Clark and Rachel Lang.

There is a justified optimism within the management team and the playing squad, not just for the rest of this season but for the years ahead.

Part of the optimism comes from the huge boost the Lionesses provided women’s football in this country by winning the Euros, last summer.

“Not just the win, but the way they played and how the players and staff conducted themselves on and off the pitch.

The game is booming, from grassroots girl’s football through the adult leagues and the international game.

While icons like Leah Williamson and Beth Mead provide inspiration for all, it is the five-year-plan of Salisbury FC Women’s manager, Courtney Cassar, that is driving her team and the club forward.

The Gazette caught up with Courtney recently to find out more about the team, her managerial style and ambitions for the years ahead.

When was Salisbury FC Women founded and what has changed the most between now and then?

“Salisbury FC Women was founded in 2016. There was a great interest, but no real development or progression, it was a team

people could come join for fitness and socialising with the competitive footballing aspect not being as high a priority.

“The latter is what’s changed the most, I’ve put together the most amazing coaching team and between us all we’ve implemented a more professional environment, where players have healthy competition between themselves to fight for their place on the pitch, and in the Wiltshire league.”

When did you first join Salisbury FC Women?

“I joined Salisbury for the 2017/18 season. I had been playing as a centre back since the age of seven and had spent a decade playing for Wolversdene FC, my local team, before suffering a hip injury.

“This kept me out of the game for a few years. After I recovered, I joined Salisbury, once again, playing as a centre back.”

And when did you make the move into management?

“I retired from playing and became manager a few weeks before the start of this season.”

What is your main role as manager?

“My duties this season have been more commercial.

“I have been sourcing and agreeing contracts with sponsors, negotiating with the board of Salisbury FC to get the Ray Mac stadium as our home ground and getting new kit and equipment in.

“I’ve also been responsible for player, staff and coach recruitment and engaging with the media.

“I share tactical decisions with my coaching team. I trust their input entirely.

My head coach, Jase (Musselwhite) and assistant coach, Mitch (Root) have brought

The 2022/23 first tem squad, with Courtney (bottom row, centre) and her coaching team

The Gazette’s news editor, Neil Henty, talks to Courtney Cassar, manager of Salisbury FC’s Women

Players congratulate Evie Cummings after the defender scored in the recent 4-1 win against Trowbridge

so much knowledge to the table and provide valuable experience when it comes to developing players and helping me choose match day line-ups.”

You took over at the start of the season, what were your ambitions at the time?

“I actually scribbled a five year plan in the back of a notebook when I agreed to move from player to manager.

“During the first season, I wanted to get sponsors in place for both home and away kits. Getting into the Ray Mac Stadium was a year two goal.

“Both of these I achieved in the first four months and I’m immensely proud of the effort and outcome.

“Beyond these goals, I’m looking to set up a development team for the women, as well as a fully-staffed girls pathway for Salisbury FC in order to be able to offer football to girls of all ages.”

What about tactical style and footballing philosophy?

“Our tactical style changes based on different variables, for example, what players are available, what injuries we need

to account for, the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses. So our style is fluid.

“My personal philosophy for the squad is ‘no cliques’. I’ve done the best I can to avoid cliques being created to ensure that the team is exactly that, one team, without upset or drama and with a focus purely on football.”

Who has inspired you most during your career?

“The Lionesses have definitely triggered the effort I’ve put into setting and achieving goals, however, most of my inspiration comes from my old Wolversdene coach, Steve.

“He instilled value, dedication and respect into the game of football for me at a young age and was a prominent figure I looked up to.”

Talking of the Lionesses, what boost has their success had on participation?

“I 100% believe the Lionesses victory is a huge reason why I’ve had such success with sponsors. The game is getting more popular, something we see most prominently in the support we receive from the sidelines.

“We’ve also seen an increase in player referrals where women across Salisbury and the surrounding areas are wanting to get into football. More girls youth teams are being created, which has also had a considerable increase in player referrals.

“I hope to utilise this popularity to create a thriving footballing pathway for girls in Salisbury and the local area, and really put Salisbury FC Women on the map.”

What has pleased you the most about the team’s progression this season? “Overall, I’m proud of how far the team has improved when it comes to link up play.

“It shows they’re really gelling as a squad and becoming a family, learning each other’s strengths and weaknesses and accommodating accordingly in the way that they play.”

And what of that five-yearplan? What can we look forward to from Salisbury Women’s FC?

“The short-term plan is simply about gaining promotions and climbing the league ladders, obtaining more sponsors so the

squad can be fully kitted out with training kit and to set up a development team.

“Long-term, the plan is to have all of this running smoothly with the girls pathway creating an ecosystem where they can move up the age groups into the development team, before progressing to the women’s first team.

“Ideally, they would then complete coaching qualifications and start the cycle again.

“In terms of promotions, there is a league pyramid, consisting officially of seven tiers – tier 7 being county leagues, while tier 1 is the Women’s Super League. There is lots of progression to be had!

“I’m proud of what we’ve become and we’ll keep getting bigger and better.”

What advice would you give for girls or women who want to play football?

“Get involved and be consistent, no one is amazing immediately, it takes time and practice and even then, you’ll make mistakes. But your team will always have your back.”

https://www.salisburyfc.co.uk/ sfcwomen/

Small Grants Programme offers awards of up to £15,000 to help local communities get active

SPORT ENGLAND’S Small Grants Programme has returned with an expanded offer. The government body can now give 50% larger awards to help communities get active after the maximum grant amount was increased to £15,000 for 2023.

The Small Grants Programme was effectively put on hold for a year in 2022 and replaced with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Activity Fund, which was designed to bring communities together through activity.

The programme has now returned and the award limit has been upped from £10,000 to £15,000 in order to provide sport and physical activities for

people who may be less physically active.

“We believe that communities that work together and share resources provide a stronger and more sustainable impact,” a statement from the body read.

The programme will also prioritise projects that focus on environmental sustainability, can demonstrate how they connect with their communities, provide the biggest possible impact to those who need it most and are working with people living in areas of disadvantage.

Applications can be made for awards of between £300 and £15,000, with multiple

applications permitted but organisations can only have awards totalling £15,000 or less in any 12-month period.

Only not-for-profit organisations are eligible for the programme and applications should explain the need for the project as well as how end users have been involved in its development.

In addition, submissions should consider how the project adds value to services currently available in their community, and show how the organisation will collaborate with other groups to maximise the project’s impact.

The closing date for applications to the programme is 30 June.

www.sportengland.org/fundsand-campaigns/our-funds/ small-grants-programme

I’VE SPENT the first few days of 2023 trawling the web to find out what foods you should be looking out for this year.

Luckily, Christmas wasn’t especially indulgent, which means I had more of a stomach for digging deep on this.

I’ve saved you a lot of time because there are plenty of ideas of what will be this year’s butter boards (no, me neither, but apparently they were the thing, somewhere to someone).

You could say there are as many ideas as there are types of food, which wouldn’t be too much of an over-exaggeration, believe me.

However, around some food trends there is some agreement, both here and across the pond, where they seem to take food trends more seriously.

Swicy food

Now, you may be thinking, what’s a swicy,? Well, it’s something that is both sweet

and spicy, of course, and it’s the hottest/sweetest thing since sweet and sour.

It’s a big deal in America, according to food websites such as The Wicked Noodle. Or at least it will be in 2023.

Swicy foods contain both sweet and spicy elements in one course, a culture clash of flavours and sensations.

Chilli chocolate has been around for a few years and is a good example of what a swicy food would involve.

But also, think hot honey. Yes, hot honey. When I first read those words I’ll admit they didn’t send me to an umamifilled happy place. However, the more I let the idea marinate, the more I warmed to it.

The Endless Meal website had this to say: “Hot honey is the best new hot sauce and perfect for drizzling on pizza, fried chicken, biscuits or roast veggies, to serve on a cheese plate or to spread on toast.”

Add to that list, baked or pan-fried salmon and I am fully on board with the idea.

All you need to do is heat some runny honey, chilli flakes and (optional) some hot sauce in a pan and warm them gently over a medium heat. It’s very important not to let it boil.

Take it off the heat as soon as small bubbles appear at the side of the pan. Let the honey cool for a few minutes, which will also let the chilli flakes infuse, then strain into a jar. Easy, squeezy. It’s honey, but ‘swice’ as nice (sorry).

Actually, it reminds me of an former work colleague who revealed that her husband enjoyed both honey and Marmite on his toast in the morning. Sweasty, anyone?

The Wicked Noodle has a

recipe for Hot Nashville Chicken served in a bun that is extraswicy and that looks delicious (I’ll add the link at the end).

No getting bored of boards So last year was all about butter boards, and like me, you probably had no idea.

I’ve seen websites that suggest butter boards are still the thing to impress your guests with in 2023. There are many theories about when they first appeared and who made them popular, but what are they?

Top: Wakame and avocado salad Right: Hot honey has a red colour from the infused chilli

Essentially, it’s a cheese or charcuterie board, where you spread butter on a board and top it with, well, whatever you want. You can get fancy and add figs and cheese and edible flowers, or you can hit the comfort button and add dried meats and olives and herbs.

The idea is then to take some bread (your choice, but a decent sourdough loaf would be good, something that’s not going to fold on you) and scoop some of the butter and toppings on to it before eating.

It might sound like someone has assembled a sandwich but forgotten the bread, but there’s no doubting that with some imagination you can make the board the centrepiece of a table.

Once you move from cheese or charcuterie to butter boards there is simply no end to what you can achieve. Chocolate charcuterie boards have been around for a while but are tapped to make a strong showing in 2023.

You can get really creative here, mixing types and shapes of chocolate with gingerbreads, sweets, cream, mints, fruit etc. Serve it with a hot chocolate drink for extra cocoa overload.

These can be a fun way to present an end of meal treat and would work well at weddings or birthday parties.

Another alternative mooted for top trend is to present a ‘seacuterie’ board, which as you might imagine, is a charcuterie board replacing meat with seafood, and on it goes.

The sea is your friend

One food trend that seems to have traction from a number of sources from both sides of the pond is seaweed.

Oda, Koya (London) and Jun Tanaka, The Ninth (also London) seaweed is likely to become a store cupboard staple. It is used in Japanese cuisine for adding umami flavours, as a stock for sauces and soups, and

for adding depth of flavour to vegan and vegetarian dishes.

It is a highly nutritious food, containing a whole host of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is also the best source of dietary iodine which can help thyroid function.

However, you need to be careful not to eat too much as this can have a negative impact on the thyroid.

Common varieties include dulse, wakame and bladderwack, which have been harvested and eaten in Ireland for centuries.

Dulse has a mildly spicy and salty flavour (salcy, anyone?). It is often bought and eaten in a dehydrated form, but it can also

predicted a rise in the consumption of tinned seafood.

As always seems to happen these days, the social media site TikTok seems to be a driver for many of this year’s trends, including the idea of ‘tinned fish date nights’. As long as you leave some anchovies for my pizza, I think the idea of eating more mackerel and sardines in

Credit: Arun Neil/unsplash

History

Documenting the secret history of Salisbury’s much-loved Playhouse

HOW did a secret plan to convert a chapel into a cinema lead to the founding of the Salisbury Playhouse theatre?

The answer is contained in a new book detailing the story of how Salisbury’s most famous theatre came to be.

Written by Playhouse archivist Arthur Millie, Twice Upon a Salisbury Stage details how the theatre came to be, as well as documenting some of the notable performers who have trod its boards.

Mr Millie explained: “In 1869, the Primitive Methodists built a new chapel in Fisherton Street. They worshipped there until 1915, when they realised that the building was suffering extensive damage due to flooding.

“They sold the building to Albany Ward, a local cinema entrepreneur, who told the Methodists that he was going to convert it into a garage.”

But what Mr Ward did not reveal was his true plan - to convert the building into a cinema.

“The Methodists did not

approve of this new form of entertainment,” Mr Millie said.

“So, in 1916, The Picture House opened and the building remained a cinema until 1937, when the popularity of the many other cinemas in the town forced it to close.

“It remained empty for a while until it became a drill hall and a recruiting centre for the Army, then after a while it remained empty again.”

The military played another important part in the building’s life when, during the second world war Basil Dean, who was in charge of ENSA (Entertainment and National Services Association), was on the lookout for premises he could convert into a garrison theatre to hold shows for the troops stationed around

Salisbury.

“This opened in 1943 and many famous people appeared there at the beginning of their careers including Peter Ustinov, Edith Evans, James Mason and Flora Robson,” Mr Millie went on.

“At the end of the war, ENSA moved out but fortunately the Arts Council realised this old building could remain as a theatre, this time for the people of Salisbury and they turned it into the Arts Theatre.

“Once again many famous people at the beginning of their careers trod these boards including Timothy West, Kenneth Williams, Leslie Phillips, Prunella Scales, Stephanie Cole and Christopher Biggins.

“And under the astute

the

management of Reggie Salberg, this little theatre gained a national reputation.”

In 1953, the name was changed to the Salisbury Playhouse and in the 1970s, it was decided it should move to more fitting premises.

“Eventually the old building, that was never initially built as a theatre, was deemed unfit to carry on,” Mr Millie said.

“And after a huge fundraising campaign, the new Playhouse was opened in November 1976 by Sir Alec Guinness.

“So from a tiny chapel in Fisherton Street to a large theatre in Malthouse Lane - it’s quite an amazing story.”

Twice Upon a Salisbury Stage details the story of the Playhouse and has a fitting author in Mr Millie.

“I have been one of the archivists at the Playhouse since 1996 and wrote this story during lockdown,” he said.

The book is available to purchase at the Rocketship Bookshop and the History Bookshop, as well as online.

Arthur Millie with his book, right, about

life of the Playhouse, pictured left in the 1950s

Reginald Salberg pictured at the Playhouse

Gold goblet proves the star of the show at end of year Semley auction

THE LAST sale of 2022 at Semley Auctioneers saw steady demand across the board.

It was the fifth specialist sale of jewellery, watches, coins and silver of the year, and included a collection of coins, mostly commemorative gold examples.

The 30 lots raised a shade under £144,000.

Objets de vertu followed the coins section, led by a Stuart Devlin textured gold goblet (see photo) which brought £13,000.

The best of the jewellery section was a diamond solitaire ring which sold for £3,800.

The more expensive pieces are usually reserved for the April and October jewellery sales. A natural saltwater pearl single strand necklace sold for £2,800.

The silver included a set of 10 Victorian plates which

The Stuart Devlin gold goblet sold for £13,000 at Semley’s final sale of 2022

brought in £4,200, an incense burner from the Sultan of Oman which sold for £2,900, and two silver trays that sold for £2,500 and £2,100 respectively.

In the watches section, a lady’s Ebel wrist watch reached a price of £2,100.

Entries are now being accepted for the February jewellery and silver sale, and for all the other spring specialist sales.

Enquiries should be directed to Paul Strange at the Semley, Shaftesbury office (01747 855122), or Kath Barber at the Wimborne office, or Rose Halton at the South Kensington, London office.

www.semleyauctioneers.com

Politics

A fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay

I LISTENED with interest to the words of our current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, this week and one statement more than any other stuck out like a sore thumb and made me question the credibility of his speech.

“…If you work hard and play by the rules you should be rewarded…”

It is hard to know where to begin with this topic but I’ll have a go.

Have nurses not been working hard enough? Have they broken too many rules? It makes the words uttered by our PM appear resoundingly hollow when thousands of over-worked and disillusioned nurses have already left the profession and there are currently 50,000 vacancies in the UK.

It demonstrates staggering hypocrisy to broadcast such a statement to the nation, when nurses, resorting for the first time in the 106 year history of the profession to reluctantly take strike action, were not shown sufficient respect by the government to even discuss an appropriate ‘reward’ for ‘working hard and playing by the rules’.

Hard on the heels of Rishi’s speech, The Independent reported, “Top bosses set to surpass annual pay of average worker in just five days…”

The article revealed the bosses of the largest companies in the UK will have earned more money in the first five days of

2023 than an average worker in the country does over the entire year.

Since January 2022, median pay levels for CEOs have risen by 39% while median worker’s pay has risen by 6% (Office for National Statistics).

We do not need Rishi’s extra maths lessons to work out that 39% of a CEOs salary adds up to an awful lot more cash in the pocket than 6% of the average worker’s salary. I am sure some CEOs work very hard to warrant high salaries, but not necessarily harder than anybody else.

For some hard-working employees, the reward for their labours includes a weekly trip to the local foodbank.

The speech delivered on 4th January was

intended to set out Rishi Sunak’s vision for the future but it lacked substance. Making fair pay a priority would be a great place to start. We do not need another PM telling us what, as a nation, we need.

Halving Inflation, growing the economy, ensuring our national debt is failing, cutting NHS waiting lists and controlling immigration have been on the agenda for some time.

His speech revealed an alarming lack of commitment toward accelerating the growth of renewable energy that will deliver the long-term the economic security and stability upon which the resolution of so many of the aforementioned issues, to a large extent, depend.

Once again we have a Conservative PM making promises of short-term gains and limited ambition. Twelve years in office and still the Conservative government does not have a plan.

The slick final words of his speech were summed up perfectly by James Dunn (New Statesmen, 5th January 2023), “… Sunak ended his speech by telling the public to judge him on his actions: “I will only promise what I can deliver and I will deliver what I promise.” Since he promised very little, we should expect little delivery…”

Double whammy is hitting the NHS

FIRSTLY, I wish a happy and healthy New Year to all readers.

These are challenging times around the world, but I enter 2023 filled with resolve and optimism that better times are on the horizon.

My first act of the working year was to hold an advice surgery in Salisbury, then I headed to London for meetings.

Urgent casework never stops, whatever the season but, from my inbox over Christmas, it is apparent that the exceptional winter pressures on the NHS are concerning a great many people.

There is no doubt that the double whammy of winter infections on top of the continuing backlog of routine procedures due to Covid has created a perfect storm.

The Government is providing

historic funding for our NHS.

Despite difficult financial circumstances, NHS investment has increased substantially in

real terms every year since 2010.

And the Chancellor recently made a number of additional spending commitments, making available £8 billion of extra funding for the NHS and adult social care in England.

But, in making sure that taxpayers’ money does the most possible good on the front line, there is much to learn from the examples of those health trusts that have come up with innovative ways of working and have done brilliantly at clearing their pandemic backlogs.

Where some NHS hospitals are faring significantly better than most through the onslaught of winter bugs, their success is clearly not down to funding alone.

Examples of best practice need to be shared and adopted with an open mind as a matter of urgency in order to make possible rapid action to improve emergency, elective treatment and primary care performance.

The Government will also make available up to £4.7 billion in 2024-25 to put the adult social care system in England on a stronger financial footing and improve care for many of the most vulnerable in our society.

This includes £1 billion to directly support discharges from hospital into the community, to support the NHS.

It is clear that we need the NHS more than ever, and I believe the Government is committed to doing whatever it takes to invest in our health and public services.

John Glen MP

Conservative MP for Salisbury

Cllr John Wells Labour Chair of Environment and Climate Committee (Salisbury City Council)

Historian and Cathedral stalwart honoured with falcon sculpture

AN AUTHOR, historian and Salisbury Cathedral stalwart has had a unique sculpture unveiled in his honour at the city care home where he spent his final years.

After his death, aged 94, on New Year’s Day 2020, the family of Tim Hatton OBE made a generous donation to Colten Care’s Braemar Lodge that would allow staff to choose and commission a garden artwork for fellow residents to enjoy.

Members of the home’s gardening team knew that Tim was a recognised expert on the Cathedral and had spent nearly 20 years there as a volunteer guide.

Colten Care’s head gardener, Charles Hubberstey, discussed ideas for a suitable piece of art with Lesley King, the gardener at Braemar Lodge.

“Lesley and I considered various options carefully,” said Charles. “We thought of something to do with Salisbury Cathedral and its world-famous spire.

“It’s well known that peregrine falcons have nested on the top of the spire in the

past few years, so the idea of a falcon seemed right, especially for a sculpture that was to be sited outdoors and among nature.”

After some research and with the agreement of the home, Charles and Lesley commissioned Lymingtonbased metal artist Michael Turner to design and produce the work.

Michael is an internationally recognised sculptor who makes robust, handcrafted garden artwork inspired by nature using recycled materials.

The result of his commission from Braemar Lodge is a stainless-steel falcon, a little larger than life size, mounted on a six-foot oak branch.

Charles unveiled the falcon to a gathering of residents in the lounge before setting it on a plinth

in the garden. Its inscription reads: ‘Thank You Tim Hatton’.

Residents, many of whom fondly recall Tim, immediately voiced their approval of what is the first garden sculpture at the home.

Marigold Routh said: “It’s very beautiful, stunning. The way it is poised on the wood, you feel its eyes are focused on you. I love its curved talons.

“I knew Tim very well and used to see his wife Sarah, who was assiduous in visiting him regularly.

“Tim loved anything to do with the Cathedral and I’m sure he would have loved this sculpture.”

Tim was the author of a book on the history of Salisbury Cathedral, The Man Who Moved a Cathedral. He also published an autobiography, Tock Tock Birds, charting his military career including spells with the Indian Army and Gurkha Rifles.

In his 20s, he was a company commander during the 1947 partition of the Punjab, helping to escort 100,000 Muslims on foot through hostile Hindu

territory to the safety of Pakistan.

He worked in Malaysia between 1948 and 1966 spending time in both the colonial service and as a director of the Malaysian Special Branch.

His distinguished career in the civil service brought him an MBE and an OBE and was followed by a period doing voluntary work in education.

He became a Cathedral guide after he and Sarah retired to Salisbury in 1994.

In his years as a guide, he mentored dozens of junior colleagues and especially enjoyed acting as an interpreter for foreign visitors.

He stepped down in 2013 and made his final return to the Cathedral on a visit with fellow Braemar Lodge residents when he was 93 in October 2018.

Resident and bird lover, Helen Scott, who has often helped to feed birds who come into the garden, said: “I think the sculpture is magnificent. It will go very well here as long as it doesn’t frighten away the other birds.”

Above: The falcon on view in the lounge at Braemar Lodge.

Right: Tim Hatton OBE pictured on a visit with fellow Braemar Lodge residents to Salisbury Cathedral in

Health & Wellbeing

Put on your walking boots and set out on the Breast Walk Ever

THE NEW Year often brings about new found enthusiasm and a fresh motivation. Perhaps you are looking to do more to help others or a new challenge?

The Against Breast Cancer charity is bringing its Breast Walk Ever event to Hampshire on Sunday, May 7th.

With full and half marathon options, as well as a 10k walk, Breast Walk Ever Hampshire has plenty of choice for anyone looking for a local walking challenge. The routes, all starting together just outside Winchester, follow waymarked trails including the Clarendon, Itchin and Pilgrims Way.

All three walks let you trek in the footsteps of King Charles II on the Monarch’s way, following the route he took after suffering defeat to Cromwell in 1651.

Against Breast Cancer’s Breast Walk Ever walkers have raised well in excess of

£100,000 over the years to help research into secondary spread Breast Cancer.

“We are delighted to offer a Breast Walk Ever event in Hampshire. To have an event close to where our research takes place has been a long-standing ambition and one we cannot wait to fulfil,” said the charity’s event manager, Richard Martin.

“The routes look stunning and it’s a great chance to get out in the fresh air with family and friends to make a real difference”.

Over 370 men are diagnosed with Breast Cancer each year as well as over 55,000 women. Breast Cancer is statistically the most common form of cancer in the UK. Against Breast Cancer fund vital research into secondary spread of the disease, the main cause of breast cancer related deaths.

Entry fees range from £12 to £28, depending on distance.

There is an early bird offer for teams of four who will receive a 20% discount when signing up before the end of January.

Walkers can expect wellstocked support stations, cheerful marshals and a complimentary massage at the finish to go with

The event features a full and half marathon, as well as a 10k walk

their hard-earned medal.

All walkers are asked to raise funds with an initial target of just £75. There is free parking at the event HQ in Hursely. breastwalkever.org

Use mindful eating to help ditch yo-yo dieting for good

Words by Claire Sankey

IN JANUARY we’re often bombarded with messages about losing weight and the latest diet. If you find yourself in a pattern of dieting in January and then yo-yoing throughout the year, it might be time to rethink your regime and practice mindfulness for better weight management.

Dieting is the number one cause of disordered eating. The 1944 Minnesota Starvation

experiment (healthy men were put on a six-month restricted calorie diet) showed a stark link between undernourishment and the onset of unhealthy body image and food behaviours (binge eating, cravings, disordered eating, body dysmorphia).

The best-intentioned January diet could be setting you up for a year of weight yo-yo-ing, which carries health risks such as heart disease, increased

inflammation and messing with your gut microbiome and mental health.

The diet industry will suck you into short-term thinking, but if you want to be healthier you need change long-term.

Mindfulness is a lifelong practice which can help you shift your relationship with food and your body and is associated with less impulsive eating, reduced calorie consumption, and healthier snack choices.

Further, mindfulness-based interventions can help you manage the difficult emotions that can lead to comfort eating.

Mindfulness means paying attention, on purpose, to what is happening in the present moment and adopting the attitudes of kindness, acceptance and non-judgement.

Mindful eating is the practice of slowing down and noticing your food, paying attention to

your body’s cues and savouring every bite.

Follow these steps to practise mindful eating:

● Remove all distractions (phone, TV etc) and set a timer for five minutes.

● Eat slowly (put cutlery down between each bite or chew 10 times).

● Get curious about how much you can notice, such as tastes, smells, colours and textures.

● Pay attention to your body’s hunger and satiation cues. Taking a few minutes to practise mindful eating each day may help support you towards a healthier relationship with food and help you to ditch the yo-yo dieting for good.

Claire Sankey is a certified mindfulness, yoga and somatics practitioner. Mindfulness was a key part in her recovery from an eating disorder. www.clairesankey.com

Health & Wellbeing

Families urged to get resilient to help vulnerable young people

DID YOU know that only 10% of children in the UK play in natural spaces and today’s young people spend less time outdoors than prison inmates?

This February half term, children’s charity, the Youth Adventure Trust, will be encouraging children from across Wiltshire to take on the Virtual Resilience Challenge.

The trust wants to get children outdoors to help promote positive mental well-being, build resilience and develop confidence, while at the same time helping to support vulnerable young people who are facing challenges of their own.

The Youth Adventure Trust supports young people in Wiltshire to build confidence and resilience to help them fulfil their potential and lead positive lives. They are currently working with 113 young people and the challenges they face on a daily basis have not disappeared because of Covid-19.

By joining the Resilience Challenge, children and families will make a very real difference to the lives of vulnerable young people like Ben, who says about

his time on the Youth Adventure Programme: “It’s helped me with my confidence and with my trust – definitely helped me with my trust.

“I just want to say a big thank you because without everything that the YAT has done, I would be so different and it’s like you guys have changed me and for the better.”

97% of families the charity supports are struggling with the cost of living crisis and many of the children would have no outdoor activity if they were not participating in the Youth Adventure Trust Activity Days.

Families can choose to run, ride, ramble, ski, scoot or swim their way to resilience by taking on 25km, 65km or 100km (at their own pace, spread over the week or done all in one go) to raise much-needed funds for the Youth Adventure Trust.

Each participant will be aiming to raise funds to match the kilometres they’ll cover. These funds will enable the children the charity supports to get outside and start to re-build their resilience and confidence to face the challenges in their lives.

Tips for working from home during the winter

by Francesca Tyer

WORKING from home can be challenging, especially during the colder months. Here are some top tips to help you stay healthy and motivated this winter.

Drink and eat

In winter, many of us live on tea and coffee.

However, drinking water is also important. When the body is cold, the brain must work harder. Water aids brain function, as does eating regular

meals, and both help to keep the body warm.

Stay connected

Working from home can be lonely, especially in the winter when social events tend to tail off. Make sure you stay connected with friends and colleagues to avoid the winter slump.

Go outside

Sitting down all day is unhealthy. Make time for

Physical activity and being outdoors are golden tickets to physical health and well-being. Getting outdoors helps people to become more confident and develop a higher sense of self-worth and self-esteem, which in turn helps people to make more positive choices.

As a society we need to recognise that the earlier we introduce people to outdoor activities, the more likely they are to choose an active lifestyle and that can only be a good thing for our young people, our

regular exercise, even in winter. Try a home workout, go to the gym, or go for a walk.

Lower light levels in winter mean less vitamin D, so going outside for a walk or run during the daytime is beneficial.

Change your workspace

If your regular workspace is cold or dark, it might be time to change things up. Sit by a radiator or a window where you are exposed to natural light.

Even winter sunlight can be warming.

Take a break

When you’re sitting at your desk for long hours, it’s

communities and future generations.

Rachel, a participant in 2021, said: “The resilience challenge has given us a focus for our walks and a target to aim for. It has pushed us to walk further, to go outside despite the wind and the rain.

Not just funds for an inspiring organisation, but to raise resilience in ourselves at a time when perhaps it is needed more than ever.”

www.youthadventuretrust.org. uk/resilience-challenge

important to take a break. It’s all too easy when the weather turns cold to sit still and keep working.

However, trying a hobby that takes you away from your screen, even for just half an hour, is beneficial.

Funds raised will enable the charity support children in the local area to re-build their resilience and confidence

Words

Why fathers’ mental health matters in the pre- and perinatal period

DID YOU know that 1 in 10 dads suffer from postnatal depression – that’s 75,000 dads each year in the UK. Furthermore, according to NCT research, up to 38% of new dads are worried about their mental health.

Looking after an infant is often a challenge for both parents. It is increasingly recognised that postnatal depression and other perinatal mental illnesses and disorders can be experienced by men as well as women.

We now understand that becoming a father and experiencing fatherhood can be a stressful and isolating experience.

It is quite possible that the increased pressures of fatherhood – which mean little sleep, extra responsibilities, greater financial challenges, and changes in relationships and lifestyles – will all affect the father’s mental health.

Research has shown that one in 10 new fathers suffer from postnatal depression, very similar to the figure for new mothers.

Once education, universal assessment and screening processes are introduced, this figure will no doubt be higher

– I believe that the figure for mothers has increased now that they are being routinely assessed, and this is supported by Wisner et al’s (2013) finding that almost 22% of women suffer from postnatal depression during the first year post-partum – thus highlighting the need for much more to be done to support fathers in the perinatal period.

It cannot be emphasised enough that the biggest killer of

men under 50 in the UK is suicide. Studies have shown that fathers with mental health problems during the perinatal period are up to 47 times more likely to be classed as a suicide risk than at any other time in their lives.

Surely now is the time to act and make a difference?

Fathers Reaching Out - Why Dads Matter was published by Mark Williams in 2020.

Mark is a campaigner for fathers’ mental health and has done a great deal to both raise awareness and effect real change.

The report was intended to be read by all those involved in the provision of perinatal mental health services across the UK and globally, including in particular those with the potential to achieve policy change at the highest level.

The report shared the findings that Mark gathered throughout his 10 years of work with ‘Fathers Reaching Out’, in order to raise awareness of the issues surrounding paternal mental ill health and the impact

Research has shown that one in 10 new fathers suffer from postnatal depression

this can have on individual families as well as wider society, and to identify and highlight key proposals for change.

The report made 25 key recommendations, including more support for fathers, enquiries into paternal deaths, increased paternal mental health screening, specialist mental health support for fathers, greater support for men becoming fathers.

Early prevention programmes were also recommended, such as improving engagement with fathers by healthcare professionals, as well as services that make fathers aware of changes that occur to their body and emotional needs, promoting more positive ways of coping.

Perinatal mental health issues might take a number of forms: ● Paternal depression –clinically similar to maternal depression, including low

mood and lack of enjoyment. They might not feel good enough, hopeless, not knowing how to be a better father than their own, etc. However, fathers might express their emotions differently, perhaps externalising their feelings in such a way that their actions might be viewed as aggressive or cold, which can lead to misinterpretation.

● Suicidal ideation

● Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

● Paternal ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder (OCD)

Sobering statistics

● An average of 10.4% of fathers are depressed both pre- and post-natally, with the peak time for fathers’ depression being between three and six months post-birth (Paulson & Brazemore, 2010).

● 24%-50% of new dads with partners suffering from depression were also affected by depression themselves (Goodman, 2004)

● 33% of young fathers wanted support for their mental health and there was nothing for them (NCT)

● 20% of new dads felt completely isolated during their first year of fatherhood (Movember)

● 33% of dads were stressed during the perinatal period (Movember)

Where to find support

If you are a new father, or about to become a father and you are worried, unsure who to talk to, anxious or feel you need more support, you are not alone.

There are a number of organisations who are there for you and who you can talk to:

● https://www.dadsmatteruk. org/

Health & Wellbeing

● https://thedadpad.co.uk/ ask-dadpad/mental-healthnew-dads/

● https://www.thecalmzone. net/

● https://www.samaritans.org/

● https://www.bestbeginnings. org.uk/baby-buddy-supportservice

● MIND – www.mind.org.uk helpline 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

● PANDAS – www. pandasfoundation.org.uk, 0843 2898401

● APNI – www.apni.org, 0207 386 0868

● www.dadsmatteruk.org/

● https://www.mentalhealth. org.uk/explore-mentalhealth/publications/ becoming-dad

If you’re in emotional pain or a crisis, you can receive free 24/7 confidential support via the Baby Buddy Emotional Support Helpline – https://www. bestbeginnings.org.uk/baby-

buddy-support-service. Text BABYBUDDY to 85258 for free, anonymous support via text message, any time of day or night.

Read the report

This feature has been adapted with kind permission from the report, Fathers Reaching Out

– Why Dads Matter: 10 years of findings on the importance of fathers’ mental health in the perinatal period, which was published by Mark Williams in September 2020.

It can be downloaded here: maternalmentalhealthalliance. org/wp-content/uploads/ MARK_WILLIAMS_FATHERS_ REACHING_OUT_PMH_ REPORT10_SEP_2020.pdf

For more information on Mark’s work, campaigns, training, books and latest research, visit: https://www.markwilliamsfmh. co.uk/blog/

Handmade natural skincare and jewellery inspired by nature. Shop local and support small businesses this year. www.kunewyk.co.uk

British Association of Removers

Eco Friendly Removals

Training and childcare costs offer for women seeking construction career

WOMEN entering the construction industry will be able to benefit from support for training costs and childcare as part of a new intiative.

The Home Builders Federation (HBF) has joined forces with Women into Construction to launch an employment programme aimed at addressing gender imbalance in the construction workforce - which currently sees just 16 percent female representation.

Working closely with employers Barratt Developments, Bellway Homes, Cala Homes, The Hill Group, Keepmoat, Persimmon Homes, Redrow, St Modwen and Vistry Group, the project hopes tro attract women into site management roles by offering a funded programme.

The programme will include:

• Site visits (central locations and online)

• A week of online insight and development sessions, including Q&As with site

managers and employers, and employability and health and safety training

• Two-week on-site work placement

• 1-2-1 coaching and support from Women into Construction

Work placements will take place at sites across England, offering participants first-hand experience of the site manager role and how they could help industry deliver much-needed homes.

Women interested in the opportunity are invited to register to attend an online information session at 11am on Tuesday, January 31.

At the event, they will learn more about the programme and meet the employers involved.

Women into Construction’s business development director, Jacqui Wordsworth, said: “With women representing just 4 percent of site managers, we want to inspire and encourage more women to take up a career in home building – helping us

and our employer partners to change the face of construction.”

And Jenny Herdman, director for HBF’s Home Building Skills Partnership, added: “The home building industry is facing a significant skills shortage.

“If we are to build the new housing this country desperately needs, it is vital that we attract a

broad range of entrants into the industry.

“HBF is delighted to be working with Women into Construction to increase the number of female site managers in the industry and show that there are opportunities for people of all backgrounds and talents to develop a rewarding career in home building.”

Labour employment plans

LABOUR’S shadow work and pensions secretary has unveiled plans to encourage older workers and those with medical conditions back into work.

people out of work with long-term ill health, there was a ‘monumental waste of human potential’.

Job Vacancies

In a speech to the Centre for Social Justice, Jonathan Ashworth promised improved support for those who have recently left employment, as well as more flexibility over fitness-to-work tests to help those on sickness benefits find work.

The government says it is increasing employment support for the over-50s.

A spokesperson said ministers were also expanding a service offered to workers in their forties and fifties to review their skills.

In his speech, Mr Ashworth warned that with 2.5 million

If Labour wins power at the next general election, he said the party would make it easier for those on sickness benefits to restart their payments if they take a job that doesn’t work out.

He also promised local councils control over a proportion of the skills budget currently spent by central government, to help ensure job training is better tailored to local areas.

A government spokesperson said it was investing an extra £22m in employment support for the over 50s and that the Department for Work and Pensions was reviewing workforce participation.

Recruitment

The Blackmore Vale Ltd continues to enjoy great success and we are looking for an experienced Account Manager

You will be managing a regular client base as well as generating new business selling into various magazines. Previous sales experience is required and you should be hungry for success.

The role is a hybrid of working from home/office and out and about within the Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire areas. You must own your own vehicle – a mileage allowance is paid.

Previous sales experience Hungry for success

Hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm. Salary is dependent on experience.

If you’ve got what it takes to be part of this fantastic team, please send your application to debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

Closing date for applications is Friday 27th January 2023.

Wincanton Town Council is seeking to appoint a motivated Responsible Financial Officer/Deputy Clerk to support the Town Clerk and Councillors in achieving their aims and aspirations for the parish of Wincanton. The role will compliment that of the Town Clerks supporting an ambitious Town Council.

Salary Scale: LC3 SCP 33-36 £39,493 - £42,503 pro rata (depending on experience and qualifications) plus Local Government Pension Scheme. The role is for 15-21 hours (2-3 days) to be discussed with the correct candidate.

A Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) qualification is required as a minimum, or a willingness to achieve this within 12 months of commencing

‘Petrol prices not coming down fast enough,’ according to the RAC

DECEMBER saw the average price of fuel fall by 9p a litre - saving drivers £5 a tank - but drivers should have seen even greater drops, according to the RAC.

RAC Fuel Watch data shows petrol fell by 8.4p last month to 151.06p, making a full 55-litre tank for a family car £4.63 cheaper (£83.08).

Diesel came down by 9.4p to 173.97p, meaning a complete fill-up was £5.19 less than it was at the start of the month, at £95.68.

Unleaded bought at one of the big four supermarkets reduced by 10p a litre from an average of 157.86p to 147.76p and diesel by 11.4p from 181.66p to 170.23p.

Wholesale prices, which have fallen considerably since mid-October, remained largely

unchanged, with petrol averaging 106p a litre throughout December while diesel was 123.4p.

Based on these wholesale prices and allowing for a 10p-a-litre retailer margin – 3p more than the long-term average – the RAC believes petrol should be being sold around the UK for 140p – 11p less than the current UK average.

For diesel drivers, the figure should be nearer to 160p a litre – 14p lower than the average at the end of 2022.

RAC fuel spokesperson, Simon Williams, said: “On the face of it, December looks like it was a good month for drivers with 9p coming off at the pumps on top of November’s 6p, but there’s no question that the drop should have been far bigger

given how far wholesale prices have come down.

“For weeks we’ve been calling on the big four supermarkets to cut their prices more substantially to give drivers a fairer deal when they fill up, so even though they have reduced their prices collectively by more than 10p a litre in December, they are still nowhere near where they should be given the scale of the drop in wholesale prices.

Prices at the pump have not yet fallen as far as they should, according to the RAC

“We hope the Business Secretary’s intervention just before Christmas puts more pressure on larger retailers to do the right thing.”

He said prices in Europe were ‘considerably cheaper’ thank in the UK.

“In fact, when compared to the 27 EU countries, we currently have the second most expensive diesel and the sixth most expensive petrol,” Mr Williams added.

MP backs minister over fuel probe

FUEL companies are being asked to divulge pricing strategies as part of a probe into how prices at the pump vary.

Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Secretary Grant Shapps has written to fuel retailers urging them to reveal the details as part of an investigation by the Competitions and Market Authority (CMA).

The probe is intended to bring clarity and transparency to how prices at the pumps are calculated.

“Although I am encouraged to note that this Government’s cut in fuel duty announced in March 2022 has been passed on to consumers, it is concerning to see that the CMA’s emerging findings point to retail fuel margins rising year on year over the past five years ahead of general inflation,” Mr Shapps wrote.

“In addition, their analysis

has found evidence that on occasion the price of fuel at the pump has fallen more slowly than it rises following changes in the price of crude oil.

“As a result, the CMA will continue to investigate the retail sector further, with a focus on the relationship between wholesale and retail fuel prices, factors driving local and regional variations in prices, and the role played by major supermarkets in the road fuel retail sector.”

The move was welcomed by West Dorset MP Chris Loder, who says fuel pricing strategies have left residents in towns like Bridport having to pay hefty premiums or travel many miles to fill up at up to 20p per litre less at the same retail chain.

Mr Loder said: “Since my intervention at Prime Ministers Questions on November 9, we have seen progress with the CMA’s investigation which, still

ongoing, is highlighting many of the unfair pricing practices we all feared were happening.

“I am very pleased that, after shining a spotlight on this issue, the Government is acting swiftly in the interests of fairness for the consumer.”

Mr Loder met with Dan Turnbull, director of the Competitions and Market Authority (CMA) on December 16, urging them to take

Bridport’s fuel price situation as a case study for their investigation.

Mr Shapps said he would be looking ‘very closely’ at the CMA’s report, and could take action if necessary.

“This Government will not hesitate to act to ensure competition is healthy and consumers get a fair deal on their fuel,” he added in his letter to the firms.

petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front screen, hill start assist, Bluetooth, FREE road tax, upto 65mpg, new cambelt kit just been done by Ford dealer, 48,950 miles ....................................................................£7250

2018 (18) Ford EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec Nav SUV 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, sat nav, park sensors, Bluetooth, hill start assist, heated front screen, great performance, 33,900 miles ........................£11850

2018 (18) Ford C-Max 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium Navigation MPV Estate 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, large boot, sat nav, Bluetooth, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, parking sensors, sign recognition, 21,500 miles ...................................................................................................£13250

2015 (65) Hyundai i30 1.6 SE Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, reverse camera, park sensors, touch screen, cruise control, hill start assist, Bluetooth, only 31,200 miles

2015 (65) Kia Optima 3, 1.7CRDi Saloon 4dr. 139bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, reverse camera, park sensors, partial leather, heated seats, heated steering wheel, lane aid, sign recognition, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill start assist, £20 a year road tax, upto 67mpg, 72,800 miles.......£9250

Motoring

Catalytic converter thefts on the rise, new police FoI figures reveal

AROUND 100,00 catalytic converters were stolen from cars in the UK over the last three years, new figures reveal - and only 1 percent of cases are solved.

Freedom of Information requests submitted to police forces by the Liberal Democrats revealed the data.

Catalytic converters are fitted to a vehicle’s exhaust system to reduce the amount of emissions and pollutants produced by the vehicle. They contain expensive metals that have shot up in price in recent years.

Hybrid vehicles are often targeted, as the precious metals within them are usually less corroded.

Thousands are taken every year, but data from 20 police forces in England and Wales between 2017 and 2021 indicated that only 548 suspects were charged.

The Freedom of Information (FOI) request found 50,223 thefts were reported during the five-year period, but did not include some of the countries largest police areas.

The problem is likely far worse than reported, as illustrated by a second, more comprehensive FOI from OPAL and Sky News, which puts the three-year figure at almost 100,000.

London had the highest

number of thefts – with 36,658. Only 544 crimes were solved.

Police across the UK have reported that they can easily be removed in under a minute, and are often stolen from vehicles in car parks. They are then sold to scrapyards, online or shipped abroad.

RAC Insurance spokesperson, Simon Williams, said: “Catalytic converters contain a mixture of precious metals which, as this data shows, is something that criminals are increasingly exploiting.

“It’s concerning to see just how unlikely it is for perpetrators to be brought to justice and reinforces why drivers need to do everything they can to avoid becoming victims in the first place.

“When at home, anyone with a lockable garage should park their car in it. But how a driver parks their car can also make a difference to how likely they are to have the catalytic converter stolen.

“The key is making it difficult for someone to get around and under a vehicle, so parking close to a wall or fence – with the exhaust nearest it –can make it harder for a car to be jacked up.

“In a public car park, parking alongside other vehicles is also a good idea, as is pointing the bonnet towards a wall if there is one.

“Drivers might also want to consider investing in a ‘catloc’ or ‘cage clamp’ which locks around the catalytic converter and makes it harder to remove.

“If the worst does happen, it’s vital to be covered by a good and fully comprehensive insurance policy.

“Drivers can also contact their car’s manufacturer to see if they offer a free catalytic converter marking service, which can help the police if they’re able to recover the part.”

The RAC said many catalytic converters are shipped abroad soon after the crime, tracing them and stopping the thieves is very challenging.

Police forces around the UK have launched campaigns to increase the traceability of these parts. These include adding a SmartWater solution to the vehicle or getting catalytic converters serialised to make them easier to track after a robbery.

Cost of charging electric cars is rising, new data shows

THE cost of using publicly accessible rapid and ultra-rapid chargers has risen by 50% since May, new data shows.

The RAC Charge Watch shows it now costs an average of 70.32p per kilowatt hour to rapid charge an electric vehicle on a pay-as-you-go basis, up from 44.55p (58%) last May and from 63.29p (11%) last September.

The rises, driven by further increases in the wholesale cost of electricity, mean drivers now pay £36 to charge a typical family-sized electric car with a 64kWh

battery to its 80% rapid or ultra-rapid limit – enough to cover around 188 miles.

This is more than twice the cost of charging the same car at home, something most EV drivers can do, with the price of such a charge coming in at just £17.87 –despite the record high domestic energy prices.

The price of using the fastest ultra-rapid chargers, which have power outputs of over 100kW and can charge many cars in a matter of minutes, now stands at 74.79p per kilowatt hour, up from 50.97p in May 2022

(47%) and 63.94p in September.

Drivers relying on these chargers pay £38.29 today for an 80% charge, £20.42 more than those fortunate enough to do all their charging at home.

It can be more expensive for an EV driver to recharge quickly on a longer journey than it is for a petrol and diesel drivers to refuel.

Drivers using rapid chargers now pay 20p per mile for their electricity, only a penny less than those using less common ultra-rapid chargers, who pay 21p per mile.

Celebrating success in 2022 and looking forward to more charity support in 2023

Symonds & Sampson’s chosen charities for 2022 were the Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire branches of Mind, and local charity Future Roots. As a firm, we elected to support these charities recognising that the vital work they carry out to improve mental health and deliver support within our community is more important than ever during these challenging times.

Amongst the events organised within the firm during the year were:

• A glorious summer garden party organised by the Beaminster office, where guests were treated to a wonderful spread and short presentations from representatives from Future Roots and Dorset Mind.

• Our commercial department organised a fun if slightly wet golf day at Yeovil golf course. The weather did not dampen the competitive spirit of the 18 teams taking part.

• A charity clay pigeon shoot hosted by the Spitfire Shoot near Stockbridge attracted teams from local businesses competing for prizes awarded to the best shooter, best team and most improved.

• At the Dorset County show we were pleased to host the popular Future Roots tractor rally.

• In the autumn, a Mexican & Magician evening at the Fox Inn, Ansty was a great success, guests enjoyed a delicious

Mexican-themed supper with entertainment by the mesmerising magician James Brown, who even demonstrated his extraordinary hypnosis skills!

• Our offices have earnt a reputation for laying on a wonderful spread at their charity events, baked by our brilliant staff. Cake sales in our Wimborne & Ilminster offices were well attended, whilst the mince pies and mulled wine served by our Sherborne office during the town’s shopping day has become a popular event on the calendar.

These events collectively raised a substantial contribution to the chosen charities, and we thank them for their support and encouragement during the year. Thank you also to our staff, clients and colleagues who joined forces to ensure that our fund-raising has been both successful and thoroughly enjoyable.

Looking forward, we are delighted to announce our support of two fantastic charities in 2023.

The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI), an award-winning national charity providing local support to the farming community across England and Wales. Established in 1860, they have been offering guidance, financial support and practical care to farming people of all ages for generations.

YFW (Yeovil Free Wheel) Blood Bikes, a group of emergency volunteer bikers operating out of Yeovil, Wincanton, and Dorchester Hospitals and carrying blood, platelets, blood and tissue samples, medication, breast milk, documents, CT scans, and equipment to hospitals, hospices, and nursing homes as well as private addresses across much of Somerset and all of Dorset, saving the NHS well over £200,000 each year while easing patients’ suffering and helping to save lives.

Our 2023 fundraising starts later this month, with the ever-popular Symonds & Sampson coffee event in Poundbury. Always drawing a crowd of loyal supporters, the event will this year be an extra special celebration as the firm mark the 10th anniversary of opening its flagship sales office in Queen Mother Square.

All are invited to the office on Thursday, 26 January between 10am and 2pm, the many bakers within the firm will ensure there is a fabulous spread, with fizz, coffee, tea and a raffle raising funds for our chosen charities and generously supported by local businesses.

Please keep an eye on our website and social media for upcoming charity fundraising events during the year.

Advertisement feature

Property Buyers still committed, survey says

DESPITE downwards pressure on prices, buyer commitment has improved, according to a new survey.

Property firm Savills surveyed 1,500 prospective buyers and sellers of prime property in the week to December 4, as well as more than 300 residential sales agents, to anticipate key market trends for 2023.

After a booming two years for the UK housing market, characterised by record house price growth and transactional activity, higher interest rates and the rising cost of living are expected to put downwards pressure on house prices and slow transactions in 2023.

But despite the increased uncertainty of recent months, the latest survey from Savills shows buyer commitment has improved since the firm’s previous survey in August, when it hit its lowest point since the start of the pandemic (April 2020).

This latest survey points clearly to the buyer groups most likely to be active in 2023: needs-based buyers in the early part of the year and increasingly the equity-rich lifestyle ‘rightsize’ buyers as the year progresses.

Of those who gave a reason for moving, 41% were downsizing, 36% upsizing, while 23% were in the market because of a relationship breakdown or a bereavement, to

reduce borrowing or because a change in employment necessitated a move.

Asked about their commitment to move, a net balance of +3% of all respondents said they were more committed to moving within the next three months and +12% over the next six months.

This rises to +20% for those moving for work, +32% for those moving because of a bereavement and +39% for those looking to reduce levels of borrowing. The most committed group, with a net balance of +48%, are moving because of a relationship breakdown.

These needs-based buyers express the greatest urgency to move within the first half of 2023.

By contrast, levels of commitment to moving amongst those looking to ‘right-size’ their homes, whether upsizers or downsizers, rise significantly over the next year or two.

“A return to a more stable political and financial environment following the tumultuous ‘mini-budget’ has led to a more positive outlook among potential buyers and sellers, despite the expectation of further economic uncertainty,” said Frances McDonald, Savills residential research analyst.

“While there are very clear headwinds, this survey suggests

that there is a strong seam of demand in the market, but that it will be clearly split between those who need to move quickly and more discretionary buyers equally committed to moving but happy to bide their time over the next 12-24 months, to ensure that they get the right home at the right price.”

Some 77% of Savills agents agree that there has been a marked increase in the number of buyers coming through their doors looking to take advantage of expected lower house prices in 2023.

Savills has forecast average falls of -6.5% across the UK prime regional markets this year, but a net +10% increase over the next five years, pointing to an opportunity for those less reliant on borrowing.

More debt-dependent first-time buyers and mortgaged buy-to-let buyers are more likely to find themselves less able to transact until affordability improves, particularly until there is more certainty in the lending market, Savills says.

Ashley Rawlings, head of residential at Savills Wimborne, said: “The legacy of the

pandemic – where buyers were driven by lifestyle choices and the birth of the ‘race for space’ phenomenon – is now permanently ingrained in the UK buyer’s psyche and expected to continue to shape choices in 2023.”

A vast majority (93%) of Savills agents agree that the value of home life is now more important than ever for their buyers.

This is translating into buyers taking a longer-term view when searching for the perfect home.

Fewer than one in 10 (9.7%) of buyers anticipate owning their next home for less than five years, while 60% expect to own for at least 10 years. A quarter (25%) of aspiring buyers are currently looking for their ‘forever’ home, with a 20+ year timeframe in mind.

“Despite a return to offices and normal social routine, country living also remains popular,” Ashley, pictured, said.

“When asked what type of location is most attractive, the majority of aspiring buyers opted for small towns, villages and the countryside, over cities and their suburbs.”

Agents also agree (58%) somewhere to work from home is still a key priority for buyers, Ashley said.

“Buyers are also continuing to prioritise proximity to parks and open spaces, and family, above transport, amenities and schools,” he added.

‘Number of rental properties falling’

THE typical UK estate agent has just eight homes available to rent, new research shows.

The number, revealed by property firm Zoopla, is less than half the pre-pandemic average of 16, showing choice for renters has worsened over the last two years.

Demand for rented homes is being driven by the strength of the labour market and is now being compounded by higher mortgage rates, which are making it harder to buy a home and keeping more people in the rental market for longer, the company said.

It also said average rents for those moving home and starting a new tenancy have risen by 12 percent over the last year.

However, renters who aren’t moving are facing lower increases, which are closer to 4%.

There are two reasons for this:

1: A quarter of renters are still in fixed initial periods with their rental contracts.

2: Many landlords aren’t looking to increase rents after the initial fixed period.

The lack of homes for rent and limited choice facing renters is down to several

inter-related factors, according to Zoopla experts.

1. The root cause of low availability is that the number of privately rented homes has remained static for the last six years, stuck at around 5.5 million homes across Great Britain.

At the same time, a small but growing number of private landlords have been selling their rental homes. Some have reached retirement age and are taking the opportunity to sell into a strong sales market and release capital gains.

Others are looking to rationalise their portfolios, selling homes that are costly to run or need significant investment. Or they’re simply looking to reduce the size of their mortgage debt by shrinking their portfolio.

The net result is that the number of landlords selling their homes has matched the number of landlords buying them, so the overall supply of homes for rent has remained static.

2. Fast rental growth for new lettings means more existing renters are staying put

for longer. This means fewer homes are becoming available for rent each year, adding to the scarcity problem.

3. In tourist hotspots like big cities and seaside areas, homes for rent can shift between the short-term holiday-let market and the longer-let market.

Landlords can typically get higher rental income from renting out homes to tourists on short lets rather than long lets.

This is a further challenge for overall supply, squeezing availability.

Richard Donnell, executive directorresearch at Zoopla, said: “Unfortunately, a large increase in rental supply is very unlikely in the near term, given higher borrowing costs for landlords and further regulatory changes which will add to the cost of investing.

“The UK’s private rental market is going through a period of rationalisation and consolidation after more than a decade of very rapid growth up until 2016. The worst is probably over but there is further to run as landlords re-evaluate their strategies for investing.”