Salisbury & Avon Gazette

Welcome to your new newspaper

WELCOME to the new Salisbury & Avon Gazette - your new, indispensible guide to what’s happening, what’s on and what people think in the city and beyond.

The Gazette aims to be your go-to publication for news, views and information - as well as for advertisers - publishing free each fortnight and available across the area.

Around 20,000 copies are distributed each fortnight for pick-up at convenient locations.

Publisher David Armishaw, of Blackmore Vale Ltd, said: “It’s our pleasure to be bringing a new source of news and information to Salisbury and the surrounding area.

“As the publication grows, we want to feature more of our readers’ stories, their views, their thoughts on their local area.

“We want to be the beating heart of the community we serve - and you can help us do it.”

In your first edition, you can find out more about the Salisbury Charter Fair, Rockbourne Fair, the latest on the plan for a tunnel near Stonehenge, as well as raft of other stories, events and information.

To get in touch with the editorial team at the Gazette, for stories, pictures, or just to say hello, simply email us via newsdesk@salisburyandavon.co.uk.

For advertising queries, contact us via adverts@ salisburyandavon.co.uk.

Rockbourne Fair brings boutique shopping to Salisbury racecourse

BORED OF HIGH-STREET shopping? Then you are very much in luck because The Rockbourne Fair boutique shopping fair returns to Salisbury Racecourse this month in support of the Salisbury Hospital Stars Appeal.

Taking place from Wednesday, October 19 to Friday, October 21 – with late night shopping on Thursday – the fair will feature more than 100 boutique suppliers offering fashion, cosmetics and jewellery, luxury homeware, gourmet food, toys and more.

The fair raises vital funds in support of the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s charity.

Each year, the Stars Appeal aims to raise at least £1 million to enhance care for patients across all wards and departments at Salisbury District Hospital and to support the NHS staff who care for them.

Lord Pembroke, president of the Stars Appeal, said: “The Rockbourne Fair is a brilliant opportunity to support the Stars Appeal – Salisbury Hospital’s Charity while getting a head start on your Christmas shopping.

“We are so grateful to the volunteers of the organising committee for their hard work and dedication to this wonderful annual fair.”

Entry is £5 (£3 after 6pm on Thursday) while parking at the venue is free. The fair opens at 10 am each day, closing at 5.30pm on Wednesday, 8pm on Thursday and 3pm on Friday.

Bev Moulding, committee chair, Rockbourne Fair, said: “We are delighted to be back again this year, providing Salisbury with a unique shopping experience with the very best stalls.

“The fair prides itself on the breadth of the offering, with something for all ages.

“We look forward to raising some much-needed funds for Salisbury Hospital. Come with friends, enjoy lunch in the restaurant and ‘Shop the Rock’.”

Student awarded Dawn Sturgess Bursary will have study costs paid

A STUDENT FROM Salisbury is the first person to have been offered a place at Rose Bruford College in Sidcup to study acting following the award of a bursary set up in memory of Dawn Sturgess who died in 2018 after coming into contact with the Novichok nerve agent.

The Dawn Sturgess Bursary was offered by the leading London-based production company, Dancing Ledge Productions in partnership with Wiltshire Creative and Dawn’s parents. The student will receive £10,000 a year (with a ceiling of £30,000) that will go towards their living costs while they are studying.

The student, Cassia, said: “This bursary means I can breathe easy in a way I didn’t think possible. Before being offered the bursary, I didn’t realise how much the stress of costs was clouding and tainting my feelings around drama school. Now, I can allow myself to feel excited; I can think and plan, knowing I’ll be able to get the most out of my training.”

The eponymous bursary was set up in memory of the Amesbury resident to help young creative people from the area achieve their full potential. The bursary is open to permanent Wiltshire residents aged between 18 and 25-yearsold who have accepted an offer

to attend a full-time acting course being taught in a UK drama school. Applications for the bursary were handled by Wiltshire Creative.

Louise Dancy, Wiltshire Creative's Take Part director said: “We are passionate about championing local talent, and equal access to opportunities which are sadly unattainable for so many. The events

surrounding the Novichok attack in 2018 are still very much present in the hearts and minds of those in Salisbury and across Wiltshire so it is fitting that we can honour the memory of Dawn Sturgess in this way.”

The public health crisis and criminal investigation following the Novichok incidents were the subjects of the drama series The Salisbury Poisonings, which

was Dancing Ledge’s first drama based on first-hand accounts and interviews with people caught up in tragedy. The company, which has a proven track record of supporting emerging talent was honoured to be approached by Dawn’s father.

“Nurturing emerging talent is at the core of what we do at Dancing Ledge and it is a great honour to provide this in Dawn’s name,” said Dancing Ledge Productions CEO, Laurence Bowen. “We are proud and excited to champion talent from her home county, and we are thrilled to be able to support the beneficiaries that have been selected. Working with Wiltshire Creative to find suitable recipients has been a rewarding experience and we look forward to what the future brings for these talented individuals.”

Two further students in Wiltshire were awarded living costs of £2,500 as part of the bursary award. Stan Sturgess, Dawn’s father, said: “With the uncertainty of the cost of living, the timing of this news couldn’t be more welcome and to know that not only one young aspiring actor, but three students, will benefit from this Bursary set up in Dawn’s name is just wonderful. Helping them to be able to study and follow their dreams is something that I know Dawn would be very proud of.”

Family fun as Salisbury’s annual Charter Fair returns

In 1227 - seven years after the building of Salisbury Cathedral began - Henry III granted a Charter to the Bishop of Salisbury to hold a fair on the third Monday in October.

Now, 800 years later, Mayor of Salisbury Councillor Tom Corbin will officially open the Charter Fair on October 16 at 2pm alongside fellow Salisbury City Councillors

and members of the Showmen’s Guild Western Section.

Organisers say the Fair will bring plenty of fun for all the family.

Juvenile rides cost £2 and most other rides £3, with some prices rising after 6pm. The Fair will open from 2pm until 9pm on Sunday, and then 11am until 10pm from Monday to Wednesday.

Above: Dawn Sturgess, credit: Met Police

Urgent

for

host Ukrainians in the Salisbury area

ORDINARY PEOPLE THE length and breadth of Wiltshire have been incredibly hospitable in sharing their homes with Ukrainian refugees.

The Homes for Ukraine Scheme has been very successful but was designed to last only six months, with no obligation on householders to continue beyond that time. As many hosts are now passing the halfway mark, it is important to begin thinking about longer-term housing solutions.

The Salisbury Community Hub for Ukraine, set up in April 2022 to help people arriving from Ukraine and their hosts, holds weekly Friday coffee mornings at the Methodist Church in St Edmunds Church Street, Salisbury to allow Ukrainians to meet, relax and exchange information or seek advice.

Recently it held an event to discuss the possible next steps needed to rent property here in Wiltshire. Speakers included; Sam Reed, lettings manager from Connells Estate Agents, Nicole Smith, head of

housing at Wiltshire Council and Suzie Mitchell from Salisbury Job Centre.

The evening pulled no punches and spoke about the lack of private rental property and social housing in the area. The processes for our Ukraine guests to claim additional social security support were explained in detail. It was apparent that new hosts needed to be sought to plug gaps along with those interested in becoming landlords who are perhaps sitting on potential rental properties.

Jane Ebel from the Hub said: “At the Salisbury Community Hub for Ukraine we have been supporting our guests with advice, help and information since the invasion of Ukraine began.

“We have formed good relations with the County Council and the Department of Work & Pensions, becoming mini-experts in the field. It has become apparent that our work supporting them must continue during this next phase if they are in need of a new home.”

She continued: “We know that even some of the most valiant of hosts are feeling that they have ‘done their bit’ and many Ukrainians in Salisbury will need to seek alternative hosts as there is little chance of them securing a rental property in the area with current demands so high.”

If any householder in Salisbury feels they can step into the breach and take on a family or single person then please do come forward and get in touch with the Hub which runs an introducing service on 07341 141632, admin@salisburyukrainehub.org. uk or contact Wiltshire Council direct via H4U@wiltshire.gov.uk.

The Hub hopes landlords with available properties not currently on the rental market will think about returning them to the housing stock to help. The government also runs a Rent a Room in Your Home Scheme which allows a furnished room to be let to a lodger tax free, up to a sum of £7,500 per annum, which could also prove an attractive option for some.

Community groups benefit from Wessex Water grants of £3,000

Wessex Water is joining forces again with Wiltshire Community Foundation to give grants of up to £3,000 to groups who want to improve the lives of people living in their communities, including those in the Salisbury area.

The Wessex Water Foundation Community Fund is part of the water and sewage company’s mission to fund projects which bring people together to build stronger communities. Since 2020 it has provided grants of at least £500,000 a year to projects across the Wessex Water region.

The community fund, which is open for applications until 24th October, is designed to fund work that supports people in financial difficulty or who lack access to services, takes place in areas of multiple deprivation or rural isolation and helps build stronger, more resilient communities. It will also fund projects helping people manage or avoid debt and provide education in money management and household budgeting skills.

Last year, the fund awarded more than £38,000 to 17 groups across Wiltshire, including some in the Gazette’s area.

Home-Start South Wiltshire received £3,000 to help towards the costs of volunteers supporting young or single families with children under five. “The grant enabled us to continue to deliver a weekly home visiting service to vulnerable families in South Wiltshire. The funding is much needed for our ongoing work,” said staff member Jacqui Scott. “This funding helped us to recruit and train volunteers and

meet the increased demand in referrals. It costs an average of £1,700 to support a family until they are ready to move on from our support.”

Carer Support Wiltshire has been able to run Carer Cafes in isolated areas all over the county thanks to the help of a £2,000 grant. Fundraising officer Rachel Demery said the cafes provide a vital lifeline to carers who are often unable to work. “Carers are under immense pressure to cope with the physical and mental health needs of the person they care for, and often this impacts their ability to work and earn enough to support themselves,” she said. “In light of this, and from what we’ve seen on a more local scale, Carer Cafes funded by this grant support people in financial difficulty or those who lack access to services.”

Safer and Supportive Salisbury used a £3,000 grant to run a Muslim women’s group in the city. Chair of trustees Anne Trevett said the group tackles isolation and helps members discuss issues with language, education and access to services, as well as identifying training and support. “Initially we were not confident that the women would come forward,” she said. “Attendance at the first meeting

of the group face to face since the pandemic of 25 women, with representation across the generations and from multiple ethnicities/countries of origin is clear evidence of need that is being met.”

Wessex Water head of community engagement Kirsty Scarlett said: “The fund will enable us to continue investing in strengthening communities and supporting people who need it most. Part of this will involve continued funding for local groups, supporting debt advice organisations and charities

dealing with those affected by low income, mental and physical health issues, hunger, housing problems and unemployment.”

Wiltshire Community Foundation joint chief executive Fiona Oliver thanked Wessex Water for its continuing support. “Thanks to Wessex Water’s generous support we have been able to help grassroots groups across the county deliver vital support to their communities.”

To find out more about eligibility and how to apply go to wiltshirecf.org.uk/grantsand-support.

A partnership with the utility company will help Wiltshire Community Foundation deliver support to grassroots projects.

Top: Carers Support Wiltshire received £2,000 from last year’s fund Above: Home-Start South Wiltshire received £3,000 last year towards expenses for volunteers who support families with children under five

Council compiles list of warm and welcoming places

A LIST OF ‘warm and welcoming spaces’ open to the public this winter is being compiled by Salisbury City Council. Venues and organisations running a free or low-cost space that is open to the public are being urged to come forward and be placed on a list of places where people can go to warm up. It comes as the cost-of-living crisis continues across the country.

The council’s Communities Team has come together with groups including Safer and Supportive Salisbury, Silver Salisbury and Harnham Community Network, to discuss what the community can and is already doing, that will support residents this winter.

The initiative has been prompted by concerns people will be sitting home alone this winter in unheated houses and spiralling energy costs, but it is also about celebrating the fantastic community-led spaces already available in Salisbury.

Any community group, church, space or business who already opens their doors to welcome anyone in the community can download the Warm and Welcoming Spaces form on the council website at https://bit.ly/3xQK9L1 to put their space on the listing.

The list will be collated by the Communities Team and published and shared by all the partners.Wiltshire Council Housing’s Resident Engagement team is also backing the initiative.

Once Salisbury’s local list is created it will be shared to make sure it reaches as many people as possible. Places where the public can visit to share a cup of tea and some conversation include the Cross Barr Café, at the Barrington Centre in Bishopdown, open from 11am on Thursdays for tea and cake

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.

your home, contact

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

for a donation only and run by volunteers from St Mark’s Church.

The city council itself runs a community café at the Baptist Church on Brown Street from 10am to noon on Tuesday mornings, where any resident can get a free cup of tea. And Salisbury Library is open through the week.

Councillor Victoria Charleston said: “Salisbury City Council are delighted to coordinate this scheme with our city partners as we approach the colder months of the year, and our Communities Team are always ready to give local people a warm welcome.”

Email bhc@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk for details.

Stewards scheme extended

A SCHEME which sees council workers dispatched to towns and villages in Wiltshire to carry out small projects is to be extended. Wiltshire Council is investing £233,000 each year for the next three years into the new two-person Parish Stewards team including providing them with improved equipment.

Currently there are 18 Parish Stewards, one for each community area, focusing on delivering on the highways priorities of their local town or parish council.

This includes jobs such as fixing minor road defects and filling potholes, and trimming bushes and hedges.

The expanded service will helping existing Parish Stewards with larger jobs that require heavier machinery and more than one person.

Public urged to stay fire safe this winter

PEOPLE ARE BEING urged to take simple steps to protect themselves from accidental fires and carbon monoxide poisoning as the winter approaches.

The Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DEFRS) has made the appeal as households look to keep warm and cut energy use amid a cost-of-living crisis.

The National Fire Chiefs Council has launched ‘Stay Fire Safe’ in response to concerns that people will turn to alternative ways of heating and lighting their homes in a bid to save money.

Alongside this, DWFRS has its own #SaveSafely

campaign, which offers advice on where savings can be a false economy, and how to reduce the risks when doing things differently.

The campaign also provides signposting to financial support as well as a range of energy saving tips.

Prevention delivery manager at DWFRS, Ian Hopkins, said: “The most

important thing that people can do this winter is make sure they have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

“We offer free Safe & Well visits, which includes fitting these devices where they are needed, so there’s no cost to the individual.”

He added: “We know that the rising cost of living is a huge concern to so many people within our community, and we are doing all we can to support them with saving safely this winter.

Please take a look at www. dwfire.org.uk/save-safely and get in touch if you need our help.”

Campaign raises cyber safety awareness

A NEW CAMPAIGN aims to help people stop criminals hacking into their bank account and to protect social media sites from fraudsters. Throughout Cyber Security Awareness Month, which runs across October, Wiltshire Police will be posting top tips to remind people how they can stay safe online.

Using unique passwords, additional security levels like Two Factor Authentication, regularly backing up data and keeping on top of software updates are some of the areas people need to think about when using computers, tablets and smart phones, according to Detective Sergeant Phil Nash, from the Digital Investigations and Intelligence Unit (DIIU) at Wiltshire Police.

“In our busy lives, where being online is part of everyday work and downtime, it’s easy to forget or become complacent around cyber security,” he said. “We all do it. However, this possible chink in the armour is often how criminals get into people’s private social media accounts, bank details and other online systems to steal identities, manipulate social media accounts and even take money.

“They rely on us not being aware or updating our security settings. Cyber Security Awareness Month is a good way of reminding us all of what we should do to keep our passwords and accounts safe from criminals. Please, keep an eye out for our social media posts during Cyber Security Awareness Month with advice to help you stay safe.”

To report cyber crimes, see www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or call 0300 123 2040.More also at www. wiltshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/online-fraud/cyber-crime-fraud.

Three arrested for stolen vehicle offences

THREE PEOPLE WERE arrested after officers seized thousands of pounds worth of suspected stolen vehicles during warrants last week (October 10). Wiltshire Police executed two warrants, at addresses in Winterslow and Amesbury, following community intelligence and information regarding suspected stolen vehicles at the properties.During the warrants, five vehicles were recovered, including a Range Rover Sport and a BMW.

Two men aged 27 and one man aged 56 have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles and all three remain in Melksham custody for questioning. Inspector Tina Osborn said: “These two early morning warrants were executed

by neighbourhood officers following information received from the public. We acted quickly after receiving this information and during this significant operation, which saw us working alongside specialist ops and partner agencies including Datatag, have recovered five high value vehicles, and made three arrests which is excellent work.

“Hopefully this provides reassurance to the victims that we will work tirelessly to identify those responsible and locate the vehicles stolen.”

CID will progress further enquiries in relation to the thefts, she added. Anyone with information should call 101 and quote crime reference number 54220106615. Alternatively, call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Hate crime figures rose last year

THE NUMBER OF hate crimes reported to Wiltshire Police increased in the 12 months ending in March 2022, new figures reveal.

Home Office Statistics show the number of hate crimes reported in the year up to March 31 was 902, up from 753 in the previous year.

Inspector James Williams, Tactical Lead for Hate Crime, said: “The Home Office statistics record a 26% increase in the reporting of hate crimes in England and Wales. There were a total 155,841 crimes recoded by the police.

“The reported increase in Wiltshire and Swindon was anticipated following the pandemic when the rate of increase slowed due to the lockdowns. Although the 16.5% increase in reporting in Wiltshire is lower than the national average, and the lowest level in the South West, we are not complacent and encourage all those who are victims of a hate crime or witness a hate crime to report it.

“We have worked hard to encourage such reporting and officers and staff have also been building relationships with our communities that are most likely to fall victims of hate crime. However, we know the figures reported to us are unlikely to represent the true picture and we need to address under reporting.

“If you are a victim of hate crime or witness a hate crime taking place, please report it.”

A hate crime is defined as ‘any criminal offence which is perceived, by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone based on a personal characteristic’.

To report a hate crime where there is threat to life or injury, call 999, however in a non-emergency situation, either report online or call 101.

The report is available at www.gov.uk/government/ statistics/hate-crime-england-andwales-2021-to-2022.

Salisbury City Hall to re-open as a venue following planned works

WILTSHIRE COUNCIL

HAS approved a plan to seek an outside organisation to run the hall as an ‘entertainment, community and cultural’ hub, after it closed at the start of Covid-19 pandemic.

The hall has since been used as a vaccination site, but councillors now hope to see it return as a venue for concerts, conferences and more.

A report was presented to the council’s Cabinet on October 11 outlining options to operate the 61-year-old venue in the future, and it agreed to the recommendation that an external organisation should be sought to run the building on the council’s behalf.

This option is the most likely one to provide longterm financial sustainability to enable the venue to thrive and to safeguard its future, they decided. The hall will continue to be used as a vaccination centre until the end of March 2023.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “While the building has been occupied by the NHS we have been working hard behind the scenes to plan for City Hall’s future as an entertainment, community, and cultural venue, subject to it being economically viable.

“We firmly believe that working with another organisation will provide longterm financial sustainability to this much-loved venue,

enabling it to thrive and safeguarding its future.

He added: “With the investment in Salisbury through the Future High Streets Fund and the River Park project, it is clear that the city’s appeal and popularity will only be enhanced in the years to come.”

The council also confirmed that it has applied for funding under the government’s Levelling Up Fund and is seeking a substantial capital grant to deliver essential work and strategic improvements to Salisbury’s cultural offer, including City Hall and Salisbury Playhouse.

However, the outcome of the bid will not determine whether City Hall reopens as an entertainment, community, and cultural venue or not, they added. Should the bid prove to be successful, works would likely be scheduled to commence in October of 2023 and complete in January 2025.

However, the exact timescales of this potential work, and its impact on when the venue would reopen as a result, would be confirmed in due course.

The outcome of the Levelling Up Bid should be known later this year. If the Levelling Up Bid is not successful, then the council will do an assessment and likely carry out any essential work to ensure the venue is safe and ready for

Bets are on for toy shop

A FORMER TOY shop in Salisbury could be converted into a betting shop if plans are approved. Betfred – under the name of Done Brothers (Cash Betting) Ltd – has submitted an application to Wiltshire Council for a new shop at 45 Blue Boar Row, a site formerly occupied by The Entertainer toy shop, which closed in January this year.

And ID Planning, which prepared the application on behalf of the betting firm, said the scheme would bring the prominent building back into use – with the current Betfred in Winchester Street closing. “The existing store (in Winchester Street) is smaller than the application property and Betfred requires a larger premises to meet demand,” it said. “Relocation will retain a local business and staff employment.”

reopening – work that would likely take place next year and could last around nine months.

However, this work would need to be agreed as part of the council’s capital programme.

“Of course, we would be delighted if we were successful with the Levelling Up bid, but we have been diligent and planned for either eventuality,” Cllr Lewer added.

“We await with interest the outcome of the bid because that will inform the timescales of our plans.

“We will still need people to be patient though because it will be some time before the venue is reopened, and nothing is confirmed yet, but should this process and option prove to be successful we’ll confirm exact timescales as soon as we are able to.

“We are feeling positive about City Hall’s future, and we will keep everyone updated as the project develops.”

During April and May, the council carried out an informal soft market test exercise to understand the level of interest among third-party organisations in potentially managing City Hall on its behalf.

With the decision made that working with a third-party organisation is the best way forward for the venue, a formal procurement process will begin in due course, and any interested parties will be invited to participate.

If the council is unable to secure a suitable third-party to work with them it will consider all other options available.

Libraries for lifelong learning

A RANGE OF special events took place across Wiltshire as part of National Libraries Week.

The event saw venues including those in Salisbury and Amesbury host a range of activities for adults and young people included opportunities to learn more about nature, how to get the most from the internet, how to share rhymes with your child to develop their communication skills and listening to authors sharing their passion for writing.

The week is a chance to celebrate the role that libraries play in lifelong learning, inspiring learning for all and helping individuals unlock and fulfil their potential at every stage of life.

Top: City Hall closed at the start of the pandemic and later became a vaccination centre. Photo: Google

Contractors appointed to work on controversial Stonehenge scheme

NATIONAL HIGHWAYS

HAS selected a joint venture between Costain and Mott MacDonald for the A303 Stonehenge (Amesbury to Berwick Down) Improvements Scheme.

Working in a consultancy role, the firms will manage design and construction of a new dual carriageway and tunnel, replacing the existing single carriage road.

Contracts have also been signed with another joint venture to deliver the tunnel and main construction work, believed to be worth around £1.25 billion, despite final planning decisions over the scheme not yet being finalised.

Project director at National Highways, Derek Parody, said: “We're pleased to have brought in a team of expert contractors.

“The main works contract will only become live once the secretary of state has concluded the planning process.

“The announcement in no way pre-empts any decision, and once that is finalised, and should the development consent order be granted, having these contractors in place puts us in the strongest possible position to deliver this transformational scheme and deliver the benefits we know it can.

“The scheme will not only unlock congestion along this

vital A303 route, but also conserve and enhance the outstanding universal value of the World Heritage Site."

The scheme has not been without opposition, however, including from The Stonehenge Alliance, who say the work ‘would result in serious damage to the WHS (World Heritage Site) landscape’.

But Sue Kershaw, managing director for transportation at Costain, said the project would help both ‘people and the planet to thrive’.

“Together with our customers we will create connected, sustainable infrastructure that helps people and the planet to thrive,” she said. “This is the second award for our longstanding strategic partnership with Mott MacDonald and evidences the delivery of our strategy in meeting the wider needs of our customers."

Ken Norbury, transportation managing director at Mott MacDonald, said: “We have assembled a world class multidisciplinary team to support the delivery of this vital upgrade project.

“We are proud to be chosen alongside Costain and look forward to working collaboratively with the project team. This is an outstanding project that will improve peoples’ lives, enhance the

World Heritage Site and its surrounding environment, which the country will be proud of.”

The scheme will provide a

bypass for Winterbourne Stoke and aims to improve traffic across the area.

Socialise Salisbury group goes from strength to strength

A GROUP THAT was organised to help its creator get out and meet people after the end of the lockdowns continues to go from strength to strength amid ambitious plans for the future.

Stephen James launched Socialise Salisbury on Facebook last year. Being new to town and enduring the various lockdowns meant it had been hard for him to get out and meet people.

What started with a group of eight people all new to the area has quickly transformed into a community of almost 1,700 people with 50-100 new members joining every week.

“We have many people managing the group, to keep it a safe, easy to use and respectful environment,” Stephen said. “We have some lovely people in the group and the events just keep getting more diverse and more people coming.”

The group has clearly been a success and like all good endeavours, it has met a very real need in the area.

“We have put a big focus on loneliness and the anxiety of socialising, normalising wanting to meet new people, in a safe and friendly environment. I have had lots of feedback from people who tell me that this has changed their life in Salisbury,”

The size of the community ensures that there is always something going on, usually at all times of the day. “Last Saturday we had four events, so there was something to join for anyone at any time of day. We also have a ladies’ book club, badminton fortnightly and many walks or casual drinks. Something for everyone.”

Stephen’s vision for a social community extends to a physical hub that will be able to extend the scope of the group to include even more people from all backgrounds.

“My goal is to create a physical social hub, like a community centre, but a progressive take on the idea.”

Top: Artists impression of the proposed road and tunnel, Above: the tunnel has been designed to return a natural environment around the world famous stones. Photos: National Highways

Postal voters need to be aware of strike dates

PEOPLE INTENDING TO use a postal vote in the upcoming Laverstock and Ford Neighbourhood Plan Referendum are being urged to make sure they post their ballots in time as Royal Mail strike action looms. The referendum is due to take place on October 13. However, members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) – including Royal Mail workers who collect, sort, and deliver parcels and letters – are set to walk out on that day, meaning no postal votes will be delivered.

To avoid missing out, those who wish to vote in the referendum and haven’t done so already, are strongly advised to send any postal votes back as soon as possible, or hand deliver them to the polling stations on polling day by 10pm.

The polling stations are located at:

• Hampton Park Pavilian (Community Centre), Ash Crescent, SP1 3GY

• Laverstock & Ford Sports Club, 23 Church Road, Laverstock, SP1 1QX

• Old Sarum Community Centre (opposite school), Pheasant Drive, SP4 6GH

Terence Herbert, counting officer for Wiltshire, said: “It’s vital that we have a strong, functioning democratic process and we want to ensure residents have their vote counted in the upcoming referendum. Therefore, I strongly advise anyone who is planning to vote to get their postal votes back in plenty of time to avoid any issues.

“Polls will close at 10pm on the day of the referendum so people can also hand deliver their postal votes at the designated polling.”

A NEW BROCHURE

showcasing sports activities and social groups for the over-60s in Salisbury has been released.

Salisbury City Council’s community activity leaders have designed and developed the document to highlight the vast array of sport and social clubs available to over 60s in the city.

The brochure, developed alongside their Senior Games

2022 event, boasts information on 18 sports and activity clubs, as well as 16 social groups, including walking sports, Zumba, lunch, social groups and more.

The brochure is available in both digital as well as paperbased formats. To receive a paper copy, contact the community activity leaders on 01722 417100, or email bhc@ salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk.

Murder Mystery at Godshill

GODSHILL VILLAGE HALL is bringing back its once very popular Murder Mystery Evening on Friday 28th October.

A Very Vintage Murder places the ‘murderers’ fate in the hands of the audience members who will need to watch the play very closely before deciding ‘whodunnit’.

The evening’s entertainment begins at 7.30 pm. The £15 ticket price includes both the show and a two-course home-cooked hot meal. A licensed bar also available.

Tickets can be obtained by ‘phoning 01425 657664 or 01425 650770, or by email on hippotrain@BTInternet.com

Bar owner reflects on ‘journey so far’ after six months in business

Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

Salisbury’s first craft ale bar is celebrating six months in business this month. Sips first opened its doors on March 31st in the Maltings. Owner Jacob Price has been reflecting on the bar’s success so far. His journey began in Devizes, where he worked for a number of years at two different bars.

“Devizes was where my passion for craft ales developed as I started to consider how I could do things differently to give guests a more authentic and memorable experience. I spent a year conceiving the vision for Sips.”

The bar’s name took some time to conceive but fit the owner’s vision perfectly. “The name Sips came after a lot of deliberating. In the end, it sounded easy to say and remember, and the name just stuck. The idea behind the name is that you come to our bar to sip beers slowly, savouring the

unique flavours, rather than drinking just to feel a bit woozy.”

Jacob tries to maintain a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere at Sips, but that’s hard to get right every time.

“It’s hard to create a perfect experience for guests. But I remember that one day when everyone was having a great time, and the next day someone came in to tell me their mind was blown by how they could enjoy such a vibe in a pub.”

And that vibe has a familiar feel: “My goal is for people to enter Sips for the first time with the wonder and excitement that Charlie did in Charlie And The Chocolate Factory as they see what’s on offer. I want people to leave their comfort zone with the drinks they try inside a comfortable bar environment.”

The artisan approach to beer at Sips is similar to many wine bars' handling of their products.

“I never grew up with wine and worked a lot with many different types of beer. I have tried

hundreds of beers I would never have tried otherwise because beer offers far more variety than wine. Recently we accepted delivery of a yuzu fruit, seaweed and squid ink sour beer. You just can’t replicate such specific flavours with wine.”

Jacob has noticed that he is no longer the only craft ales provider. “Some chain pubs in Salisbury have upped their

Restaurant gets positive feedback for plant swap

Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

Trendy Asian restaurant Lah Koh hosts a monthly plant swap event. We went along to find out what the event was all about.

One of the owners spoke to us about the idea and why the restaurant’s customers were keen to get involved. “Houseplant lovers from Salisbury and beyond come and trade their excess plants for new ones. We love our plants here at Lah Koh. We’ve had a few customers ask for cuttings and offshoots from our plants before, so we thought we could create an event where people were free to bring some of their cuttings to exchange for new plants. Buying plants can get expensive, especially when you start collecting them, and there are so many different types.”

Reflecting on initial responses to the plant exchange, she continued: “People were excited. We had a great deal of positive feedback when we posted about the event. Although it took a little time for the event to become established, we now have regulars, and there are always many plants to share around.”

But the plant exchange isn’t just a bit of fun. It also says a great deal about Lah Koh’s philosophy. “Plants are an important part of

game and offered more local, braver, and unique beers than before. Some pubs have started including craft ales in their tap offerings. I feel proud of Sips’ potential effect on improving the image and popularity of craft ales in Salisbury, and I think it is a good thing for all pubs and pub-goers.”

Sips can be found at 4 The Maltings, Salisbury SP1 1BD.

Lah Koh, both in our decor and food. Our food is packed with veggies and plants that match our image of healthy but hearty food. The name Lah Koh is taken from a type of bamboo, one of the most sustainable resources on the planet.

“The plant exchange has started to build up a community feel about it. It’s nice to see people bond over their shared love for plants. It’s such a welcoming space and is an easy place to get to know people who you’d never have spoken to if you didn’t love plants.”

How do Gazette readers take part? “We host the exchange monthly on the first Sunday from 2pm to 3pm and our next one will be on November 6th. All you need is a cutting, some baby plants or a plant you’ve fallen out of love with. We place them all on the table and at 2:30 let people take what they want. We just ask people to be courteous and not take too many. We usually have plants leftover and haven’t had any issues yet. We always love seeing new people, so come along.”

Salisbury’s youngest entrepreneur already has her very own empire

Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

At 24-years-old, Kellie Gentle is the youngest business owner in Salisbury. She opened her shop Stuff Emporium, at the beginning of July 2022. Kellie began her experience in business ownership at 21 when she co-owned a shop in Wilton.

Now she is based in Salisbury, she recalls: “I fell in love with the building and location here on Winchester Street. I saw the potential for building up a collective of local artisans and small businesses as there isn't anything like that in the centre of Salisbury.”

She continued: “I have always loved the idea of having my own little shop - but it became even more of a dream and focus after a period of time in hospital at 18, where I spent my days crocheting. I got a lot of supportive comments from staff and was told I should start a business. In fact, the doctors and nurses there were my first ever customers. This is where my business, Handmade Kellie, was born.”

So how has business been since Kellie opened? “Customers have been really positive and supportive, and there's been a huge amount of interest from local sellers. Soon I will have more shelves built to accommodate the demand.”

And what does Kellie sell at Stuff? All sorts of ‘stuff’, of course. “I have my brand Handmade Kellie where I make and sell crochet animals, pin badges, sticker packs and more. I've also got 40 local artisans selling products such as diffusers, candles, greeting cards, artwork, silver jewellery, eco products, scarves, and so much more.

She continued: “Customers seem to be most excited by our huge range of crystals! They're super affordable, and we have so many different shapes and materials. A top seller is our crystal mushroom carvings.”

Kellie advises young people thinking of starting their own business to simply, “take the leap of faith and go for it! You aren't

just selling your products and yourself when running your own business. I find events are a great way to connect with potential customers, and they're more likely to remember you afterwards. I started selling at the Salisbury Teenage Market in 2016, which was a brilliant help in building up a customer base.”

Christmas is an important time for Salisbury retailers, and Kellie has a lot planned. “I will be hosting some late-night shopping. December which will also mark the six month milestone of Stuff Emporium being open, so I'm planning something special for that. I also have a few other exciting ideas up my sleeve to be revealed closer to the time!”

Stuff Emporium, 31-33 Winchester Street, Salisbury

Landmark hotel seeks planning permission to install three electric vehicle charging points in its car park

serve to increase footfall at the pub. The proposal also represents a vital new piece of infrastructure (rapid EV charging) for local residents, and for visitors.”

It added: “Further, as all of the equipment is to be located at the opposite side of the site to the listed building, it will not encroach on the sightlines of the building itself.”

The Bull Hotel, in The Headlands, Downton, has submitted a planning application to Wiltshire Council for permission to install three EV (electric vehicle) charging points in its car park. As the

building is listed, special permission is needed to make alterations to the site.

The Osprey Charging Network, which has submitted the application on behalf of the hotel, said: “Our proposal will

They said care has been taken to ‘minimise the impact of the development’, and that the chargers would bring benefits that ‘far outweigh’ the impact of the development.

“The proposed development will have minimal visual impact to the local area, as the chargers and associated infrastructure are limited to 2.3 metres in height,” the application said.

The proposed chargers would be installed on the south side of the site, in an existing parking area and would be accessible to customers with reduced mobility.

The scheme will now be assessed by council planners before a decision is made. For details, and to comment on the application, log on to www. wiltshire.gov.uk and search for reference PL/2022/06936.

Sister’s Wardrobe prepares for Christmas

Business Words and photo by Tristan Ovington

Small businesses need to stick together through tough times, that’s the message from Katy Shergold, owner of Sister’s Wardrobe on Salisbury’s Winchester Street. Opening a shop in the current climate has been a challenge for Katy, who runs the shop with her sisters Jess and Alice Hodgkinson.

“Running a business with my sisters is great,” she said. “We all bring different skills to the business and always support each other. Like all siblings, we have a few artistic differences but come together to make the shop work.”

But the sisters don’t just collaborate with each other to make their shop successful. “We hope to work with other Winchester Street Indies like Stuff Emporium and Blueberry Den to make Christmas shopping a local experience. We currently hold a monthly late-night shopping evening from 6-8 pm, details of which can be found on

our Facebook/Instagram. We have also been attending the Brown Street Live Indie Lunch, a live music event with local businesses offering a range of crafts and sellers.”

Supporting fellow businesses is important in challenging times but also a source of great strength. “Our biggest challenge was the heatwave in August when buying clothes was the last thing on people’s minds. While the economic times make it hard for everyone and lead to fewer purchases, the flip side of that is that our biggest success was the support of other Salisbury indie businesses and our growing customer base who support the shop and the ethos of buying more sustainably.”

Sustainability and support is at the core of the business. “We enjoy giving clothes a second chance, taking preloved items and passing them on to be used again. We enjoy talking to customers and providing personal service to help them find that inexpensive

but perfect outfit. We sell a range of clothing from high street to designer. Brands include Joules, Boden, Next and items not found on Salisbury high street including Karen Millen and Ted Baker.

Our biggest highlight was a lady who bought an outfit for the royal enclosure at Ascot.”

With the Christmas on the horizon, Katy and her sisters are preparing to help even more customers find sustainable outfits for the festive period: whether in person or online. “Christmas will

be an exciting time, we will have lots of clothing perfect for the party season and the big day.

We’ll hold late-night shopping events to help with all those Christmas outfits,” she said.

“Our Instagram live stream is popular and helps customers unable to get to the shop during the week to see items which can be reserved for collection. It is a great platform to showcase the items we have in stock.”

Sister’s Wardrobe, 44 Winchester Street, Salisbury

Directors warned to be vigilant when it comes to loan accounts and liabilities

No company director wants to think about liquidation, but vulnerable companies and their directors should make themselves aware of the associated pitfalls, according to local insolvency company, Antony Batty & Company LLP.

The number of insolvencies rose by 13% in the second quarter of the year compared to the first quarter and is currently at the highest level for 60 years. The number of company insolvencies across England and Wales in the second quarter was 5,629, of which 4,908 were Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations

When a company is liquidated it can lead to liquidators’ claims and even director disqualification. There are two key areas directors need to avoid at liquidation –overdrawn Directors Loan Accounts and the payment of Illegal Dividends.

An overdrawn Directors Loan Account happens when there is a balance owed from the director to the company at liquidation. Once a liquidator is appointed, they are

obliged to recover any such amount that is owed by the directors, which is treated as a debt owed to the company. Such Liquidators’ Claims are usually paid personally by directors. When disputed, cases can and do end up in court, and if the director loses, they typically end up paying legal costs as well as the claim – sums which can be hugely expensive.

Elaine Wilkins, business development manager at Anthony Barry, which has an office in Salisbury, said: “We are seeing an increase in enquiries from struggling companies where overdrawn Directors’ Loan Accounts are an issue. Anecdotally, it is commonly accepted in the insolvency profession that between 75% and 80% of business insolvency cases involve overdrawn director loan accounts.”

Dividends are only payable from profits and yet it is common to find directors paying dividends as insolvency approaches and even when insolvent. These are illegal dividends and liquidators can and do, seek

to reclaim such dividends from the directors personally. Financial recovery action is part of a liquidator’s statutory remit.

With the financial effects of the Covid-19 pandemic ongoing and current inflationary pressures this activity may be on the rise because sums that directors typically take out of the company to pay for non-business personal expenses are charged to the Directors Loan Account. Then, in order to redress the resulting overdrawn position, a dividend is declared to repay the sums due before the company’s accounts are finalised. However, if the profits are not there to allow for the dividend, it will be illegal and will be investigated at liquidation. With many businesses suffering, there is likely to be an increase in such investigations with associated financial recovery action at liquidation.

So what can directors do? The advice is clear, for any director concerned about the financial position of their company and facing insolvency, it is vital to contact an insolvency company at the earliest opportunity.

£500 in vouchers are up for grabs

YOUR new Salisbury & Avon Gazette is giving away £500 of supermarket vouchers - and here is how YOU can win.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, you could scoop £250 in vouchers this week for supermarket giant, Lidl.

We will be offering another chance to win in the next edition of your Gazette.

To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is answer the question on the form opposite, and make sure your entry reaches us before midnight on October 31, 2022.

The question is: Which iconic Salisbury landmark can be seen towering over The Close (and on our front cover)?

There are three ways you can put yourself in with a chance of scooping the vouchers.

1. You can complete the form opposite and post it at our special box at Lidl, in Hatches Lane, Salisbury.

2. You can post your completed golden ticket to Golden Ticket, Blackmore Vale Publishing Ltd, 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU.

3. Enter online by completing the form at salisburyandavon. co.uk/comps

One winner will be chosen at random to win £250 in vouchers as part of a total £500 giveaway.

Terms and conditions: Entrants must be over 18 years of age. Entrants must be UK residents. No purchase necessary. Prize subject to availability with no cash alternative offered. The Salisbury & Avon Gazette’s decision is final. Entries close at midnight on October 31, 2022.

WIN a £250 SUPERMARKET SHOP!

For your chance to win this super Salisbury & Avon Gazette competition, simply answer the question overleaf correctly, and post your completed entry to our office or in-store, or enter online!

(One winner will be chosen at random)

Hair stylist cuts to the chase by converting his van into a mobile barber’s shop

People are used to having shopping, food and drink delivered to their doorstep but barber Niall Coles is taking convenience to the next level with a Deliveroo-style mobile barber’s shop. The 26-year-old is cutting hair in a custom-converted van, complete with a salon-quality chair, bespoke lighting and even a refreshments fridge, that pulls up outside homes, offices, pubs and even care homes in and around Salisbury.

“People really like it because it is convenient,” said Niall. “They don’t have to waste their evenings and weekends driving into town and trying to park, I can just pull up in their street or their place of work in their lunch break or after work.”

Customers book their visit via an app which asks for their location and choice of haircut. It works out the barber’s travelling time and comes up with a suggested booking, which can be amended, as can the price.

“It’s becoming really popular with people living out in the villages. The other day I was

in Broad Chalke and I did eight cuts,” said Mr Coles, who works within a 10-mile radius of Salisbury but can travel a bit further if there are enough bookings in a particular area.

Using a purpose-built van rather than someone’s kitchen or living room results in a better haircut, he said. “When you go to someone’s house you might not have the right lighting, you don’t have enough room and the chair is not always the correct height, which can make it difficult,” said Mr Coles. “The van gives you consistency because everything is set up perfectly.”

Although his customers are predominantly younger and prefer skin fades and beard trims, he regularly cuts older customers’ hair and has recently taken the van to a care home. “It was quite heart-warming because a lot of the gentlemen don’t see many people,” he said.

“It was lovely for them to chat with different people. I’d love to do more of that.”

He has been to a wedding venue to cut the groom’s and his ushers’ hair, attended offices

and is open to bookings for events, festivals or even markets. Haircuts cost around £5 more than comparable trims in a regular salon.

“A few years ago you’d never dream that people would be happy to pay extra for a coffee and a sandwich to be delivered to their house but it’s all changing and this is just the next step. Our customers are really happy to pay extra for that little bit of convenience and I think that’s the way forward.”

For more details about booking, visit grade92.co.uk

Trethowans earns top ranking places in the Legal 500 research

Trethowans has ranked as top tier in the Legal 500 list for 2023, having once again received overwhelmingly positive feedback from its clients.

The Salisbury-based law firm achieved top tier status in the renowned legal directory for services in corporate and commercial, licensing, personal injury and clinical negligence (claimant) and personal tax, trusts and probate.

The firm also received recommendations in 15 practice areas, including agriculture and estates, banking and finance, employment and family.

Feedback from clients included: “The team at Trethowans truly understand our business and can act as a genuine extension of the in-house legal team, which is extremely valuable. The advice is prompt, commercial and good value.”

Many of the firm’s lawyers are ranked in this year’s guide, including Lucy Gleisner (Corporate), Kelvin Farmaner and Bethany Blamire (Insurance & Regulatory) who

were once again recognised in the ‘leading individuals’ group, as well as Nick Gent (Corporate).

Mihiri Gajraj (Private Client), Emma Wilders-Pratt (Family) and Elizabeth Ryall (Commercial Debt Recovery) were all listed in the ‘next generation partners’ group.

An additional 39 lawyers at the firm were recommended or mentioned by name in Legal 500 UK commentary for standout contributions to their respective practices.

Managing partner Mike Watson (pictured) said: “Once again, it’s wonderful to see our teams’ efforts being recognised in the Legal 500 list with such positive testimonials from our clients, and we’d like to thank everyone who took the time to provide feedback on Trethowans.

“We are committed to providing the best possible service for individuals and businesses and are proud of all our teams’ exceptional hard work.

For 33 years, the Legal 500 has been analysing law firms’ capabilities through a comprehensive and impartial research programme, assessing firms across the world in over 150 jurisdictions through a combination of client feedback and interviews with leading practice lawyers.

Mike added: “It’s fantastic to see almost 50 team members either ranked, recommended or mentioned in this year’s guide and Legal 500 UK commentary, with recognition across the spectrum of the firm.”

Credit union is voted best in the south in top finance analyst’s annual awards

A Wiltshire and Swindon organisation which loans money to people on low incomes to prevent them from resorting to payday lenders has been voted the best in the south at a financial website’s annual awards.

Wiltshire and Swindon Credit Union (WASCU) won the Best Credit Union (South) category in Smart Money People’s 2022 Consumer Credit Awards. The site is the UK’s largest financial review website.

Judging was based on reviews left on the site by people who use services registered with Smart Money People. In more than 170 reviews, WASCU earned an average of 4.94 out of 5 stars, which, said chairman of trustees Nick Gallop, is a testament to the quality of the service delivered by its staff.

“The staff in the office dealing with members have done a fantastic job and this is a reward for that,” he said. “I am delighted for everyone involved with the organisation and it is very satisfying to be recognised like this. I see it as a motivation to do more.”

The group, formed in 2016 from four separate credit unions across Wiltshire, is based in Cavendish Square, Swindon but has collection points across the county, including at Salisbury Library. It lends more than £1 million a year to 3,500 active members and is seeing a steady rise in demand, in part because of the cost of living crisis.

Its loans are designed to help families who are unable to get credit elsewhere to prevent them from going to payday loan companies with crippling interest rates or even illegal loan sharks. Members open savings accounts and, provided they meet loan criteria, can take out loans, which are repaid monthly.

Its most popular product is its Family Loan, which requires members to have their Child Benefit paid into their savings account. They can then take out a maximum £500 loan and the credit union takes its weekly repayment direct from the benefit before passing on the balance the same day.

The awards cover the entire credit industry, including loan providers, credit unions, credit information partners, retail finance and more.

Alongside the star ratings, members were encouraged to leave reviews of the service. “When you need to borrow money the only ones who will offer you anything are payday loans with the most ridiculous APR

rate that you are paying back double,” wrote one member.

“The credit union will only offer what you can afford and prompt you to save with no ridiculous APR. I’ve been using this credit union for a few years now and it’s helped me through Christmas, the replacement of white goods and a family holiday. I couldn’t have achieved this without being able to borrow from them.”

Another added: “I was overjoyed when the credit union were able to assist me after an accident left me struggling to work and support my eight-year-old. The professional care, efficiency and empathy were second to none and I can't recommend this organisation enough.”

One member said the service is a great resource when money is tight. “I have been both a borrower and a saver – the latter these days but they were there years ago when I needed them and I haven't forgotten,” she wrote. “I still save into my account, albeit a little every month. Most useful that it comes out of my salary and I can just forget about it.”

Mr Gallop said: “The special thing we have done is provide a quality of service and a way of treating people with dignity. Some of those who come to us, they were just

Above: Staff at Wiltshire and Swindon Credit Union are celebrating being voted the Best Credit Union (South) category in Smart Money People’s 2022 Consumer Credit Awards

managing to survive and then their fridge stopped working or they needed to buy new shoes for three kids going back to school.

“We treat them in a really helpful and constructive way and because of that they have left these lovely reviews of our service and it is wonderful that this is why we’ve won this award.”

To find out more about the credit union’s service at wascu.co.uk.

MPs agree that the Prime Minister needs to encourage energy saving

OUR FAMILY OF four adults made the long journey from Salisbury to the Yorkshire Dales this summer to spend a week with an elderly relative, a wheelchair user, dependent on the support of family and friends for all her basic needs.

We travelled by road for several reasons, not least of which was to be able to support her needs and because ours is a rural community where public transport is virtually non-existent.

As temperatures and fuel prices soared to record levels we decided to open the windows to increase ventilation instead of using the air-conditioning. It was noisy, but the environmental and economic benefits justified the discomfort of a bit, well actually quite a lot, of noise.

Breaking our journey for an hour en route at a well known coffee retail outlet, we bought a drink and sat in the car eating our packed lunch with the doors open, again to provide ventilation.

During our break, three different cars occupied the space next to ours, and the occupants of all three vehicles sat in their car with the engine running for the entirety of

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

their visit, presumably to enjoy the benefits of air-conditioning.

Even more remarkably they all decided to open the windows thus negating the benefits of the air-conditioning.

I imagined this same scenario throughout the country throughout the summer and

considered the significant environmental and economic impact of this issue.

I am not for one minute suggesting this alone is the reason for climate change, but it was a perfect illustration of how our actions as individuals are often inadvertently (I hope) a factor contributing to the need for governments across the globe to take urgent action over climate change.

Like it or not we are still currently, and likely for a while, to be at least partially dependent on fossil fuels in our daily lives. It naturally follows, as individuals, we all need to ‘do our bit’ for the environment, but so does our government.

It was disappointing, to say the least, to read in the Guardian this week: “Senior Conservative MPs have urged Liz Truss to launch a public information campaign to encourage people to reduce their energy use after No 10 blocked the idea over fears it would seem like the actions of a nanny state.”

It appears that there are Conservative MPs who share my views, but a Prime Minister boldly claiming her fiscal u-turn last week was the action of a ‘listening’ cabinet is not living up to that proud boast.

Profits do not need to suffer in our drive to meet Net Zero targets

AT the beginning of the week, it was a great pleasure to be invited to The Small Robot Company in Porton. This expanding company is doing pioneering work in agriculture, using automated systems to help farmers deploy fewer herbicides, and do so more effectively.

By carrying out targeted troubleshooting instead of having to spray a whole crop indiscriminately, farmers can reduce their use of chemicals, driving down their costs, boosting yields and delivering environmental benefits.

In the drive to achieve net zero and support biodiversity, it is hugely welcome to see that, with the application of human ingenuity, taking decisive environmental action is not the enemy of either profits or productivity.

I am always fascinated to see really exciting niche and cutting-edge businesses

John Glen MP Conservative MP for

springing up around the constituency. Meeting companies at the start of their journeys and doing all I can to connect them to the right people to help them realise their full potential, is a privilege and one of my favourite aspects of my job.

Another particularly enjoyable part of an MP’s role is being invited into schools to talk to young people about politics and democracy and to hear their ideas.I am grateful to members of Bishop Wordsworth’s politics society for last week’s typically bracing yet courteous and thoughtful questioning.

My other appointments this week include visits to a business in Alderbury, and a Shrewton-based charity. I am also attending Salisbury’s Cathedral Council and Cultural Pillar meetings and I am talking to individual constituents about a range of topics including school transport.

Book now for Christmas at Stourhead, a winter wonderland with new installations for 2022!

The National Trust’s Palladian house and garden is preparing to wow visitors for another year with the return of the glittering trail between 25 November 2022 and 1 January 2023. This family-friendly magical festive trail in Stourhead’s unique gardens will be filled with larger-than-life illuminations, all choreographed to a soundtrack of much-loved seasonal music.

Matthew Findlay, Head of UK Trails for Sony Music/Raymond Gubbay Ltd, said: “We were thrilled with the fantastic response from visitors who enjoyed the trail last Christmas and our planning and preparation for 2022 is already well underway. Look out for some new surprises this year.” Be transported into a winter wonderland in this unique landscape. Discover the iconic Christmas Cathedral created with more than a thousand pea lights woven into the forest landscape. Marvel at the ‘sea of light’, neon stars wrapping trees and stunning Super Nova. Pause to reflect at the mesmerising, flickering flames in the fire garden, enjoy the larger-than-life light installations and don’t forget to wave at Father Christmas along the way.

Independent street food vendors bring a

delicious twist with tasty treats on offer. Complete your walk under the stars with a *spiced winter warmer or *hot chocolate shared with friends and family. Everyone loves toasting a marshmallow over an open fire and the artisan *marshmallow stall gives visitors the chance to warm their hands and enjoy this sweet outdoor tradition. Christmas at Stourhead provides a special way to celebrate the festive season with an unmissable outdoor experience. The trail is designed for all ages and is accessible for all to enjoy.

Christmas at Stourhead

The after-dark illuminated trail through festive gardens from 25 November 2022 to 1 January 2023. Open from 4.30pm, last entry 8pm, closes at 10pm. Closed 28/29 Nov, 05/06/24//25 Dec. Advanced tickets from:

Adult £21.50, Child £15.00 (Age 3-16), Family £71.00 (2 adults + 2 children).

Parking £8 per car, free for National Trust members when booked in advance.

christmasatstourhead.seetickets.com

TICKETS ON SALE – EARLY BOOKING ADVISED CHRISTMAS AT STOURHEAD

The magical after-dark illuminated trail

Stunning school benches on display at Cathedral before heading home

“The BookBenches are made of fibre glass and professional artists Sue Martin, Helen Morgan Ford and Helen Look, held workshops to explore specific themes for each school with the children involved in every stage of the process,” said a spokesperson for the initiative.

“Their ideas and wishes culminated in eight beautifully-painted benches depicting a wide range of themes both with local interest and covering world-wide issues. The library’s bench was designed and painted by Terry Kemp and depicted business people at the time of Salisbury Rotary’s start in 1922.”

The BookBenches were on public display in Salisbury Library during August, coinciding with various activities arranged by the library for children during the school holidays, before moving on to the cathedral.

Later in the autumn, the BookBenches will go to their permanent homes in the eight participating schools and one in the library.

STUNNING ARTISTIC BENCHES created by Salisbury primary school children are on show at the Salisbury Cathedral until the end of the month.

Youngsters from eight schools took part in the BookBench project, organised by Salisbury Rotary Club and Salisbury Library, which saw three professional artists work with them to produce the pieces. The scheme was funded by Salisbury Rotary, the Rotary Foundation and Wiltshire Council. In total, nine benches were constructed – one for each of the schools and one for the library

Durrington School launches thrift shop to keep costs low

Parents and teachers at Durrington Junior School have come together to set up and run a uniform thrift shop to help families cope with the cost of living crisis. The shop will be open on the school site every two weeks with stock made up of lost and donated uniform that has been washed and mended, where necessary, by a team of volunteers. “We were first approached by one of our parents, who posed the idea after talking to other mums and dads. We were more than happy to assist and get the ball rolling,” said headteacher, Karl Caslin. “The school has always tried to keep the cost of uniforms low, with only a badged jumper compulsory.”

“The project was part of the celebrations to mark the centenary of Salisbury Rotary Club, which was founded in January 1922 and since then has raised many thousands of pounds for charitable causes both locally and worldwide,” the spokesperson added.

The Salisbury schools taking part were Harnham Infant and Junior schools, Longford Junior, Manor Fields Primary, St Andrew’s Primary, St Martin’s Primary, St Peter’s Primary and Woodlands Primary.

If you are interested in finding out more about Salisbury Rotary, email hello@salisburyrotary.org.uk or visit www.facebook.com/ salisburyrotaryclub.

Apply now for school places

APPLICATIONS are open for primary and secondary school places in Wiltshire for September 2023 entry, including for those attending school for the first time, children who are moving from primary to secondary and from an infant to junior school.

Applications can be submitted online at www.wiltshire.gov.uk until the national deadline dates of October 31 for secondary schools and January 15 next year for primary schools and infant to junior transfer.

The National Offer Day for school places for applications received before the published deadlines are March 1, 2023 for secondary and April 17, 2023 for primary and junior places. Online applicants will receive the outcome of their application on National Offer Day. Applications can also be submitted using a

paper application, which can be obtained from Wiltshire Council’s Customer Services Team on 01225 713010. Those who apply using the paper application will be sent a letter confirming the outcome of their application, but information will not be available on the National Offer Day.

Cllr Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children, education and skills, said: “This is a key moment for families. It isn’t a first come, first served process, so I would encourage them to take time to think carefully about the preferences they put down. I’d urge families to make their preferences online where possible and ensure the application is in before the deadline day.”

Families can visit the school admissions pages at www. wiltshire.gov.uk for information on the application process.

Field

Stream

Look out girls, Humphrey the Ram is warming up!

by Tria Stebbing

The time is running away with us and the evenings are drawing in. Nature is providing us with an assortment of goodies over the field currently, although the weather has thrown us a wild card in what we are foraging.

In the last few years the sloes have been plentiful – this year, however, we are looking at a much-reduced crop. It was not worth risking them and waiting for the first frost, so they have been picked and popped in the freezer, ready to be added to gin for a Christmas tipple.

We have a bumper crop of Rosehip, more than we have ever seen, so I am currently experimenting with making syrup. Rosehip is known for its high vitamin C and antiinflammatory properties – easing the pain in a farmer’s stiff joints can only be a good thing.

The hedgerow is a vibrant shade of red, with a hint of blackberry, but the blackberries have gone over, leaving plenty for the birds to finish off. They were early and very sweet back in August – we have loads left on the bushes, but sadly they are bitter and dry.

The other surprise has been the crab apples, apples in general seem to have done very well – as you drive through Dorset you can’t help but notice the glut of apples in the trees and on the ground. The sheep love the windfalls and small amounts can be fed along with carrots to boost vitamins before the ram going in. Our girls have them as a treat, mixed in with their ewe nuts.

We topped both fields a few weeks ago, when the ground was like brown dry parched dust. It has paid off as we now

have paddocks of lush green shoots. It is a good time to spray the thistles as we are grazing the flock on summer grazing currently away from the field. The thistles need to come out as they ruin a bale of hay and when in situ in the field, the sheep graze around them wasting a valuable patch of grass, leaving prickly tufts sticking up seeding themselves and making more.

The village has its Apple Day in the community orchard next week, a community coming together to celebrate a great year for the apple and a chance to press them and make delicious apple juice. Harvest festival is being celebrated in local churches and it is for us a moment to prepare for the next stage at the field – the introduction of the Ram. Look out girls Humphrey is warming up.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust calls on public to defend nature

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is asking its members, supporters and the wider public to defend nature by contacting MPs and local councillors to voice concerns over new government proposals.

The Trust, alongside other Wildlife Trusts and environmental charities such as the RSPB and National Trust, is extremely worried about recent government announcements that it says pose serious threats to nature, climate and food security, such as threatening to revoke hundreds of laws that currently protect wild places and ensure standards for water quality, pollution and the use of pesticides.

The government has also decided to ‘review’

the Environmental Land Management schemes; instead of rewarding farmers for restoring nature, preventing pollution from entering rivers and climate-proofing their businesses, the Wildlife Trusts are concerned that there could be a return to simply paying landowners based on the area of land they own.

The Trust, which looks after a number of local nature reserves, including The Devenish, Langford Lakes, Nadder Island, Blackmoor Copse, Cockey Down, Coombe Bissett Down and Middleton Down, is also concerned about the ban on fracking being lifted in England and the new planning and infrastructure bill, as well as

investment zones as part of the growth plan, which they believe will weaken vital protections for habitats and wildlife.

Gary Mantle, CEO of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Vital legal protections for wildlife are at risk, fossil fuel extraction is being favoured over renewables, and the government is going back on plans to reward farmers for managing land in a nature-friendly way.

“These proposals have sparked outrage by politicians of all political persuasion, farmers, campaigners, and members of the public – many of whom feel anxious that the government is not tackling the nature and climate crises with the urgency required. We are calling on the

public to contact their MPs and share their concerns. These actions will affect us all – the communities where we live, our wild places, food security, and our futures. These crises pose monumental challenges, and recent proposals by this government will only make things worse.”

The government’s Food Security Report, published last year, identified climate change and biodiversity loss as the biggest threats to future food production. The Trust encourages farming in harmony with nature but fears the deregulation proposed by the government will lead to unhealthy river systems, less wildlife and land that’s unable to adapt to climate change.

Rosehip is known for its high vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties

Close at hand, the basket stood with nuts from brown October’s wood

by A J Selby

Ask any group of people to name their favourite season and many will plump for spring or summer.

For some, however, the autumn holds a special place in their hearts – this season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. No other time of year demonstrates the irresistible urge in our DNA to see us through the winter to come. Blackberries and cobnuts, damsons and chestnuts, all picked to preserve and keep for the coming cold weather – in the garden produce is frozen or stored, in the kitchen jams and chutneys are bottled.

Our distant ancestors dried the meat of wild animals and made warm clothing from their fur. Our more recent ones lived or died by the bounty of the harvest and how many fat cattle and sheep they had to survive the winter. As Shakespeare writes in The Tempest: “Earth’s increase, foison plenty, barns and garners never empty.” Foison means a rich harvest. We are lucky to have no such worries but the primeval urge is still ingrained in us to stock up and eat comfort food to ready our bodies for the winter and leaner times.

We can now enjoy autumn for the spectacular colours across our landscape and we are fortunate to have several places in the area to see this rich tapestry – Stourhead, Longleat, Duncliffe, to name but three. The colour formation in leaves is a complex process involving photosynthesis, the reduction of water in the leaves through a process whereby the leaf veins close off, and the pigmentation process of carotenoids – orange and yellows – and anthocyanins – reds and purples. In autumn the shortening days causes the slowing down of chlorophyll production. This fades the green colour while at the same time

the yellow and orange carotenes that are masked by the green in summer become visible, and the sugars trapped in the leaves as they die back are converted to anthocyanins bringing out the red hues.

Most English woodlands are shaded yellow through orange to brown, with mostly the maples, viburnums and dogwoods offering reds. But what shades they are? The pattern of the different species, especially when viewed from afar, creates a stunning effect that only nature can offer us. On a clear and crisp morning as the mist rises from the valley and is burnt off by the rising sun, the vista of mature deciduous woodland is a thing of inherent beauty.

Venture into those woods and take in its calmness as the bird song, so intense in the spring, is muted to almost complete silence. As you feel the crunch of the leaves beneath your feet be careful not to tread on emerging fungi. After a warm summer, the autumn rains and the residual heat in the ground are a perfect combination for the fruiting spores of a myriad of different fungi, from tiny, nay almost invisible species, to the larger and more familiar ‘toadstools’. They will grow

where there is any decaying matter, from leaf mould to rotting timber to open grassland.

Many of our popular mushrooms are both poisonous and wonderfully named. The red toadstool with white spots of Disney fame is the fly agaric – poisonous and enchanting. Then there is the panther cap –a beautiful brown cap dotted by numerous white-ridged spots, the funeral cap, Satan’s boletus and the destroying angel – was there ever a better named fungi? It is ghostly white and not that common. The best known and the biggest killer is the death cap. The medical summary for the symptoms, both for the death cap and the destroying angel is: effects will start several hours after eating. It begins with severe vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach pains. Then follows what appears to be a full recovery. A few days later you’ll die of kidney or liver failure! There is no known antidote and 90 per cent of people who ingest it will not survive. This mushroom has caused the most recorded fatalities in the UK. They have a pale olive-green cap, white gills and a bulbous base with a white collar. Be careful. Be very careful.

However, if you know what

you are doing there are many delights to forage for. Giant puffballs are unmistakeable and are found in pasture, and can be sliced steak-sized, given a minute each side in a dry pan, then dipped in beaten egg and breadcrumbs and re-fried. The scarlet elf cups are found on decaying wood and are stemless and look just like the ears of an elf. Blewits grow in rings in pasture and are easily identified by their beautiful thick violet stems and are used in casseroles and stews. Big fat ceps are a culinary delight and sold in markets on the continent, as are golden chanterelles and parasol mushrooms.

My favourite is the shaggy ink cap – found in grassland, it is a small cone-shaped fungi that matures from the ends of the hood, turning ink-black and melting upwards until just the stem remains. And finally, the field mushroom – not as common now as in the past but a real bounty when it shows itself. Due to the poisonous nature of some fungi, always be sure of your identification before eating or ask an expert. There are some amazing flavours and textures to be enjoyed but, and I can’t emphasise this enough, safety first.

Autumn holds a special place in many hearts

PHOTO: Joe/Pixabay

Farming

My busman’s holiday in France

by Ruth Kimber

We have done the maize harvesting – this makes an excellent nutritious silage for the dairy cows. Our yield was down due to the hot dry summer, albeit maize doesn’t mind it hot, but it was even too much for it this year, just not enough rain to keep the plants growing.

We have just returned from a holiday in France – we have a friend who farms in the Loire Valley where we spent a few days. He grows all sorts of interesting things, haricot beans, red onion squash, but the main enterprise is maize for seed. It’s a very complicated process and involves a lot of planning between the growers. It’s important to avoid crosspollination of varieties.

When the plants flower, it is hoped that weather conditions will ensure the male plants pollinate the female plants at just the right time. After, the

male flowers are cut off and discarded to prevent further pollination. Then the female flowers are cut off to prevent any cross-contamination with another variety.

It is inspected regularly and if a crop has too many male flowers left, they have to be picked by hand – this is always the case as more male flowers can appear after the first cut has been done, involving lots of hands. Casual seasonal labour is short in France just like here in England.

The price paid depends on not only the quantity produced but the quality and germination results. This year the French maize seed farmers have suffered badly from the weather – the sun and wind have to be just right for pollination, and there were simply too many days of very hot sun. The yield, quality and most certainly the germination will be badly affected.

When the cobs are ready for harvest, a cob picker picks them

Energy measures get a cautious welcome from farmers’ leader

The Government’s energy support package for business has received a cautious welcome from the NFU.

Prime Minister Liz Truss has revealed business energy costs, like those of private households, will be capped for the next six months.

The move comes as prices continue to escalate amid the cost-of-living crisis and the war in Ukraine.

After the first three months of the price guarantee, the scheme will be reviewed in a bid to identify sectors requiring additional support.

Responding to the news,

mechanically, they then are fed into a conveyor which take them into a machine to stripe of the outer husk. In a good year most of the husks come off cleanly, however not always, so a group of people have to pull out the ones which are not clear of husks and send them round again.

Paul and I did this for a couple of hours – it’s pretty intense as you can’t relax for a moment. After this, the clean cobs are sent off to the cooperative where they are dried, keeping each grower’s crop and variety separate. It really made us appreciate how much work and care goes into producing our maize seed. It is a costly crop to grow and with this year’s disappointing yields, I guess it will reflect in next year’s price to us, their customers.

Our friend, Yves had dairy cows, lovely looking Normandy cattle. However, he reluctantly decided to sell the dairy as the price he was getting, just like

here, was not enough to pay the bills. He was telling us that by the end of the year France will have not enough milk for the home market. Our milk price is much better now, but not enough to halt the exodus of still more dairy farmers. With rising prices of inputs, the margins are still tight.

When we returned it was lovely to see our cows out grazing and the turkeys enjoying the autumn sun. Our order book is open for Christmas, and it looks like whatever else happens, people are determined to have a good Christmas meal.

n Kimbers Farm Shop, The Kitchen at Kimbers, Somerset Trading Barn; Linley Farm Charlton Musgrove BA9 8HD Phone: 01963 33177; www.kimbersfarmshop.co.uk info@kimbersfarmshop.co.uk; opening times Tuesday-Friday 8.30am-5pm; and Saturday 9.30am-4pm.

NFU president Minette Batters said she welcomed the plan –but also urged the Government to consider what comes next.

“We welcome the detail announced in the energy support package which will provide a much-needed cushion for farmers, growers and food businesses which are vulnerable to high wholesale energy prices,” she said.

“Given the package does not cover limits on standing charges, it’s essential the Government continues to assess the full impact that energy bills will have on business confidence and production.

“We also need urgent clarity on what support will be available for food businesses after the initial six-month period.

“Energy plays a core role in the production of our food and throughout the food supply chain, from fertiliser production and heating glasshouses and livestock buildings, to baking bread and keeping facilities clean.

“We simply can’t produce

the food the nation needs without affordable energy.

“Because of this close link between energy and food, the Government must prioritise access to affordable energy for food production and the food supply chain.

“Continued support will be key for curtailing food price inflation going forward and ensuring the provision of affordable, nutritious, climatefriendly food for the country.”

NFU president Minette Batters says the Government needs to consider what comes next after it revealed business energy costs will be capped for the next six months. PHOTO: NFU

Farming

The risk of acorns this autumn

by Alice Miller BVSC DBR MRCVS Friars Moor Livestock Health

Like other farm vets and farmers, I often find myself thinking about the weather. Many people may think we all just like a good moan about when it is too hot, too cold, too wet or too dry, and perhaps they are right! However, there is also method to this. While we have no control over what it throws at us, we can at least monitor it and make predictions as to how weather changes may affect the land and animals we work with.

There is currently an abundance of acorns on our oak trees, and it is important to be aware of this especially after stormy and windy weather.

Acorns are a real risk to ruminant animals. Ruminants include cows, sheep, goats and deer. They are herbivorous animals which have four stomach compartments, the rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum. Food such as grass and hay pass through each chamber to get digested.

It seems acorns are very palatable to ruminant animals and once they get a taste for them, they often consume large quantities. Acorns contain

tannins, and when digested in the rumen produce acids that are highly toxic. These acids can cause ulcers in the gut which leads to colic and diarrhoea, but they also cause damage to the kidneys. The functioning kidneys remove other toxins from the blood into the urine, but with acorn poisoning this function is impeded, which leads to further toxin build up, blood poisoning and eventual death.

If you keep ruminant animals, it is best to graze them away from oak trees at this time of year, certainly when grass levels are low, as they may be tempted to find these alternative food sources. Look out for signs

of colic, diarrhoea, depression, dehydration and sudden weight loss. If acorn poisoning is suspected, remove the animals from the source, offer fresh water and hay, and call your vet immediately.

Unfortunately, there is no specific antidote, but we can offer support treatment, to rehydrate the animal, and support the kidney and gut function. We can administer activated charcoal which helps line the gut and absorb toxins. We can also give intravenous fluids to support the kidney function and effectively attempt to ‘flush’ out the toxins. We can also administer pain relief and

gut relaxants to relieve the colic. However, time is of the essence and treatment is only likely to be successful when cases are identified early. Unfortunately, even then it can often be too late, so prevention is better, and I would urge everyone who has animals grazing near oak trees to remain vigilant.

5 Poll Dorset shearling ewes. 07917774940.

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Well experienced, any job considered. 07484842691

Call ducks and crested ducks, various colours, £5 each Telephone Sophie on 07444 892321

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Cattle and Rare Breed Pigs available for sale 07769 323429

veterinary services for livestock in

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and

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points for livestock

and supplies

livestock

Sherborne,

supplies at Sherborne,

Blandford and

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Caravan Removal Service, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service.

call 01935 873169 or 07368380477

Please call the office

Please call the office

Please call the office

Acorns, now abundant on oak trees, pose a risk to cows, sheep, goats and deer PHOTO: Julita/Pixabay

Home

Garden

Hardy fellows from plains of southern Africa

by Sally Gregson

As the days shorten, the temperatures cool, and the garden starts to shut down for the winter, there are fewer flowers to greet a sunny autumn morning, fewer to make into bunches for the kitchen table or cheer a gardener’s heart. But Schizostylus is one such. The unpronounceable name has recently changed to Hesperantha, bringing muchneeded relief to those who ‘hate Latin names’. In truth there is never a ‘right’ pronunciation. Plant names are not a language. Hesperantha flowers right at the end of the year, starting in September as the nights lengthen, opening its flowers

from the bottom of the stem up to the tip around Christmas time. Often our autumn gales and heavy rain damage these special flowers, so many people cut off the spikes and arrange them in red and pink bunches for the house.

They are plants of the South African plains, growing in the wild on the banks of streams among grasses. And that is where they excel. Despite their exotic heritage, they are tough plants. They are completely frost-hardy here in the UK, although they prefer a slightly less-than-damp soil, and bright open sunshine.

All summer, hesperantha make lots of foliage that mostly

Hesperantha coccinea ‘Major’

resembles grass, but with wider leaves. In the wild their flowers are mostly shades of coral red and pink. But European plant breeders have selected out some good, strong colours and named them. There’s H. coccinea ‘Major’ with light coral-red flowers at a typical height of

It’s tree planting time again!

by Sally Gregson

Now, a few weeks and months after the last fiery breaths of the drought, it’s time to take a salutary look back at the situation in the garden. The heat and desiccating winds have left a legacy of poorly plants. Some trees lost their leaves rather too soon, while others have simply died.

A quick way of working out which parts of a seemingly dead tree are merely biding their time, is to use the thumbnail test. Scratch a centimetre of skin off the top of a brown stem. Is it brown underneath? Try halfway up the length of the branch. Is it brown underneath? And then, as a last hope, scratch the top skin off the lower limbs or branches. Is it still brown underneath? This exercise repeated all over will give you an idea of the living shape of what remains. If the conclusion is negative, and the tree is doomed, dig it out completely, removing as much of the root

structure as possible. Only then turn buckets-full of garden compost into the hole.

And then find a new tree. In these long, dark evenings it is a pleasure to trawl through the websites and catalogues to find a tree which will tolerate the given conditions. Be careful to analyse exactly whether the soil is basically heavy clay, loam, or free-draining sand.

October is the ideal time to plant a tree, especially in light, sandy soils – it will/should be watered naturally throughout the winter and get itself established. In heavy soils, it’s better to wait until spring when the soil is not waterlogged and is beginning to warm up. Loam soil is a gardener’s delight – it can be worked at any time during the winter.

In light soils, including loam, cherries and almonds enjoy drier roots. For heavy soils it might be better to consider crab apples, Sorbus commixta or hollies. Check your choice

online, especially favouring the RHS website for accurate information.

Another important factor is the amount of light and shade a tree will tolerate. Acers, Cercidiphyllum and Cornus are happy in light shade. And Yew – Taxus baccata – will grow away in draining soil in dark shade.

Dig a big hole, at least twice the size of the root-ball of the

50cm, which quickly bulks up to form a wonderful colour contrast with the royal-blue flowers of Ceratostigma, or the variegated leaves of Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ as it reddens for autumn.

Then H. coccinea ‘Jennifer’ has been selected for its strong coral-pink flowers that stand out among faded blue grasses such as Panicum ‘Prairie Sky’ with its china-blue leaves. And H. coccinea ‘Pallida’ whose palest pink flowers are streaked with white shows up well beneath the last flowers of that repeatflowering rose, Rosa ‘Mutabilis’. The pinks glance off each other throughout the remainder of the autumn.

Hesperantha are easy to propagate – divide the dormant rhizomes in spring. Re-plant the divisions into retentive garden soil enriched with plenty of garden compost, allowing space for them to expand, and water them well to settle them. And wait for next autumn.

Japanese Acers growing in the shade

bare-root tree; position it in the hole at the same depth it was potted; place a stout stake at a slanting angle into the prevailing wind and tie it in; back fill with the soil and compost and water it very well immediately and every dry week or two.

Its roots will steadily move out into its new home, and it will leaf up next spring to bring you joy.

Free family fun at

Families are invited to get wild at Arundells at the end of the month. The free event is centred around the twin themes of autumn and nature and will feature craft activities and a nature trail, as families are encouraged to explore, play and create. And for those who work up an appetite, the Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club field kitchen will be serving an all-day breakfast.

Wild and Free at Arundells will also offer people the chance to visit the Community Garden, which is being created to provide a quiet and reflective space where visitors can learn more about sustainable gardening, wildlife and habitat. The garden is the main focus of the ‘Arundells – Fit for the Future’ project, which has been made possible by an award of £99,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The project’s aim is to bring to life the history of the historic home for a wider range of people through community activities and events, such as Wild and Free and ongoing community involvement in the community garden.

Time to think festive flowers

Stratford Tony florists, Pod & Pip will be running its Christmas Shopping Event on Thursday 17th November from 10-4 pm. The shop will be packed with Christmas decorations, inspiration for dressing the Christmas table and your home, and carefully selected gifts from small and local businesses.

Customers will also be able to pre-order Christmas wreaths, wreath kits, festive bouquets and flowers. The café will also be open for festive drinks and light lunches. For more information, visit www.podandpip.co.uk.

Pets

What does being a veterinary nurse involve?

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

Veterinary nurses are essential members of the veterinary team and they bring their own unique skills to enhance the running of the practice and to patient care. A love of animals and their well-being is essential but the ability to learn and interact with their owners is also important.

Being a veterinary nurse involves many varied skills. These can range from cleaning and administration work through to inpatient care, anaesthetic monitoring, nurse appointments and lab work.

A minimum level of exam grades are required to enrol on the course and, because it is such a practical qualification, employment by, or attachment to, a practice is a requirement. Nursing qualifications are either at degree level, with periodic work placements, or as an apprenticeship with day release to college. Further qualifications in critical care or physiotherapy, for instance, are available and it

is a requirement for all qualified nurses to complete further training each year.

Veterinary nurses are not trainee vets. They are a profession in their own right and provide unique skills which are different to vets. There is a lot of overlap of skills, but they are generally more involved in the individual care of animals in the practice for operations or as inpatients.

Being a vet nurse requires a level of responsibility and self-motivation. While vets are the decision makers in terms of treatment decisions, nurses are involved in this decision making and their perspective and experience can help in formulating a treatment plan.

Nurses also have a lot of ‘face to face’ contact with clients running nurse clinics where, typically, they will do post-op checks, claw clips and give advice on worming, fleas and diet. Many practices require nurses to be competent at reception and telephone answering. Good communication,

Misunderstood minibeasts

by Emily Ryland-Langley, Director TWO Bird Experiences

Although they are small, often misunderstood and very underappreciated, insects are some of the most fascinating things to learn about on our planet. They provide us with some of the best examples of camouflage, strength, team work and hunting prowess.

Although some may not be blessed in the looks department and others have a few too many legs for comfort, minibeasts can make absolutely fantastic pets. Choose the right one and they

will be beautiful to look at, happy to be handled and can also be a great way to introduce younger members of the family to the basics of animal care (perhaps before someone a little ‘fluffier’ enters the home!).

However, with between 6 and 10 million species (that’s 1.4 billion insects per human on Earth) it is definitely advisable to head to your local pet shop or professional to help you pick out the bug for you.

Here at TWO Bird Experiences we absolutely adore bugs, and our six-legged friends along with our team of birds help

within the team and with clients, is essential.

Salaries generally start at minimum wage – or may even be apprenticeship wage – until qualification and, even then, salaries frequently lag behind those of human nurses despite the extensive skill set most vet nurses attain. However, overtime is usually paid for in addition to basic salary and opportunities within industry or more specialised fields increase earning potential.

It is important to realise that the negative aspects of the job involve dealing with suffering,

to reconnect people with nature and get them excited about the huge abundance of wildlife that live and thrive right here on our doorsteps in Wiltshire.

From buzzing bees and dancing dragonflies, to the spots on ladybirds and the antlers of stag beetles, we often find that once someone has been introduced to the wonderful world of bugs, they start to see and hear them everywhere! And once a nature warrior has been created, they are almost unstoppable! Before long, back gardens blossom into wildlife havens filled with wildflowers and bug hotels; and instead of videogames, weekends are spent bird watching, pond dipping and

clients’ powerful emotions, euthanasia and unsociable hours such as night-time emergencies and weekends. These aspects are often balanced by the pleasure of seeing the recovery of a sick animal or the gratitude of a relieved client.

Becoming a vet nurse is a rewarding job and allows you to work with, and care for, animals all day, and you will feel like you have achieved something at the end of each day. But it can be stressful and upsetting, and the level of education and work required is not always balanced by the salary paid.

taking part in the big butterfly count.

There could not be a more important time for us all to start getting inspired by the natural world. With 41% of our insect species facing extinction, and 80% of plants in the UK pollinated by those insects, we need people to stand up and get involved. So, why not pop on your walking boots and head out to discover ‘wild Wiltshire’. Perhaps if you take a peek under the magnifying glass you may find that life in the undergrowth is, in fact, rather extraordinary.

For more information about local wildlife or getting a new pet visit www.twobirdexperiences. co.uk

Veterinary nurses are not trainee vets – they are a profession in their own right. PHOTO: Arvydas Lakacauskas/Pixabay

CAN YOU BE A FOREVER HOME?

Mid Dorset Branch Cats Protection

Cats looking for new homes

Arlo (two). Very affectionate lovely boy who would fit into most families

Kittens. We have kittens available. If you would like to register interest, please visit our website and fill in the enquiry form, www. cats.org.uk/ blandford Please do not phone as we are all volunteers and can’t always answer. Thank you.

Hattie (one). Looking for an understanding home

For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website, www.cats.org.uk/blandford

LOST CATS

If you have lost a cat, please contact us via our website, phone or Facebook.

Please make sure we have a contact phone number so we can get in touch with you quickly if needed. n Grey tortie female, missing from Weymouth since July. n Grey male, missing from

Downwood, since 27 September n FOUND CATS

If you regularly see a cat in your garden or down your street that you don’t think has an owner, please give us a call – it might be a lost cat that could be reunited with its owner. n Pale ginger tabby/white, Stalbridge, currently being fed by finder.

We are still offering neutering and micro-chipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10 and DT11, SP7 and SP8, and BH21. Phone: 01258 268695.

Tip #25 How to provide mental stimulation

– nosework

by Helen Taylor

Using a portion of your dog’s food – if dry fed – or low-value healthy treats, throw a treat a few metres away with your dog watching. As he runs to get it, say ‘find it’. Repeat this many times, gradually introducing more difficulty – for example, different floor colour or surface, and more distance.

Once he understands and reacts to the cue –which, to him, should mean ‘it’s worthwhile to use your nose now’ – start making it harder. Hide multiple pieces of food – in easy places to start with – when he’s not looking, then encourage him to search the whole room by following your hand.

Watch his body language closely. When he does a ‘hook back’ – a ‘double-take’ as he goes past something and then registers the smell and doubles back – help and encourage him to search that area, and always celebrate his finds.

Put food under a yoghurt pot – initially with him watching – and encourage him to find it. Add other pots and set it up with him out of the room.

If your dog is toy-motivated, you can also do most of these exercises using a toy as the ‘bait’ and/or the reward.

n Helen Taylor BSc(Hons) ADipCBM; Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB); ABTC register of Clinical Animal Behaviourists and Animal Training Instructors; full member APBC and APDT (881); phone: 07951 985193; help@helentaylordorset.co.uk; www.helentaylordorset.co.uk

MUCKY PUPS DOG GROOMER

R E T N E C N O A T Y A R T R A E R A U Q S G N I H N U H S E O W N R E W O T O K O E R T R E W O T Y K S X E T N U T D T E L I T E R E S I D E N C E L W U H A N C E N T E R U P L A L M A S T O W E R L T C O N N T H E M A R I N A T O R C H W W Z I F E N G T O W E R R E R I T H E P I N N A C L E E W E E A F I L A H K J R U B R T P R I N C E S S T O W E R R E C L T R E W O T E S O R D A A

E A Z A L P L A R T N E

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Contain at home tip about daughter (7)

Down

Former female tennis player with change of direction gets to lose vitality (7)

2 Pursuit to entertain a frequented joint (5)

A hotel resident overlooking street is fit (4)

Noted US general holding line for crowd (7)

After getting converted own mostly keen faith (2,3,4,2)

Note largely sumptuous characteristic of old architectural order? (5)

4 Slip by group ignoring book on mission (6)

Loosen a French piece of neckwear (5)

Become comfortable in finest leather (6)

Heavily built thug bringing men trouble in Georgia (7)

Warm again backward woman’s brewed tea (6)

7 Cut piece of brisket cheerfully (4)

Get a load of papers for hearing (7)

Young woman enthralled by Arab island and Asian sheep (6)

Fluid rests uneasily around top of shoulder giving pain (11)

A rising movement in the sea too (2,4)

13 Fighter with speed gets to change abode

More secure having dispelled fears (5)

Inhospitable house with set of steps in wall

Greek that is beginning to feel aspect of bereavement (5)

A hero transfixing Britain – and the Britain old (6)

description of revolutionary activist? (2,5)

I’m surprised by first sign of knowledge in tech obsessive (4)

Supply excessively nosh to cover lunch’s opening (5)

A medal wanting name gets one eagerly excited (4)

at home tip about daughter

Arts

Casting announced for this year’s pantomime at the Salisbury Playhouse

Wiltshire Creative has announced the cast for this year’s pantomime, Cinderella. Following the success of their previous award-winning pantos, Clare Plested, Adam Brown and Amanda Wilsher return with a fresh take on this well-loved story, with James Button returning for another year of imaginative stage design. The production will kickstart Salisbury’s Christmas festivities, opening on 30th November with the final show on 8th January 2023.

Will Cinderella make it to the ball? Will the Fairy Godmother save the day? And will her step-sisters ever give her a rest and help her with the housework? Cinderella is full of

traditional pantomime fun with plenty of jokes, songs from across the decades, and more magic and sparkle than you can shake a wand at.

Artistic director Gareth Machin will direct Lucy Aiston as Hastag, Samuel Ashall as Swing, Alex Crandon as Deldini, Fergie Fraser as Viral, Daniel Goode as Lady Stella Hardup, Dani Hardy as Swing, Jade Johnson as Fairy Showbiz, George Olney as Prince and Jasmine Triadi as Cinderella, in what should be a wonderful retelling of this classic tale.

Machin said: “I am delighted to be directing Cinderella this year with such a brilliantly talented cast and creative team. Salisbury Playhouse will be full

of laughter and festive fun.

Adam, Clare and Amanda have written a wonderful and hilarious adaptation of a much-loved family classic. Combing the classic tale with contemporary flare, I know it will keep audiences young and old equally enthralled.”

Local author breaks new ground with audio release

Local young adult author Francesca Tyer is on the verge of releasing an audio version of her debut novel, The Firestone. The audiobook is narrated by British actor and award-winning author, Clive Mantle, best known for his roles in Casualty and Robin of Sherwood.

“The audiobook took three days to record and is currently undergoing post-production edits,” says Francesca. “The release date is Saturday 5th November and I can’t wait!’

The Firestone was launched at WHSmith Salisbury in 2020 with local media outlets Brunton Media and Wessex TV providing coverage. The Firestone, published by Authors Reach Ltd, is the first book in The Elemental Prophesy series. It tells the story of James

Fynch, a 14-year-old boy who, after witnessing a strange event at an airport, finds himself transported to a magical, parallel world.

In a review of The Firestone, Dr Who Online: “To think this is Tyer's first novel is mind-blowingthis is the work of a seasoned writer whose attention to detail, character development and world-building, galvanises her as a most accomplished author.”

In October 2021, Francesca released the second book in her series, The Seastone. Earlier this year, the Rocketship Bookshop in Salisbury hosted a signing event for both novels.

The third book, The Earthstone, is currently being edited ready for release in 2023.

Alongside her writing, Francesca runs creative writing workshops in schools, bookshops, and online. She also runs 1-2-1 mentoring sessions for writers and combines this with freelance editing.

You can find more information about Francesca’s published work at www. francescatyer.com

Good Luck, Studio Tuesday 18th October, 7:30pm

Written by Henry Shields and directed by by Henry Lewis

This dark new comedy comes courtesy of the award-winning Mischief, the team behind the global smash hit The Play That Goes Wrong and the BBC comedy series The Goes Wrong Show.

It’s the final night recording Wibble the Dragon. The show is massively over budget and under written. With one hour left to film 16 pages and an audience of children getting more and more impatient, the cast and crew know big cuddly heads are going to roll.

The last thing anyone needs is a failed actor showing up with a sinister vendetta and his own dragon costume. In this adult take on a kids’ TV show more than just careers will die.

Make a Gnome out of Clay with Lynne Heaton

24th October, 10-11.30 am

Salisbury Arts Centre is offering families the chance to get to grips with clay this Half Term in this workship led by Lynne Heaton. Designed especially for children and their parents/ guardians to come and enjoy making with clay.

Model your gnomes and then paint them in coloured clay slips to make sure they look the part. After the workshop, the gnomes will be biscuit fired by the tutor and with finished gomes ready to collect on Saturday 19th November from the pottery between 10am and 1pm. It promises to be great fun.

What’s on Event

Scouts announce 2023 jamboree plans

entertainment, including climbing walls, a cave bus, swimming, a show from Bear Grylls Survival Academy and more.

The whole event is being organised and run by Salisbury & South Wilts Scouts, with the young Scouts fully involved in making the event a success. Ben Kinsey, Minehead Jamboree Camp leader said: “What makes this event extra special is that we have a team of young Scouts who work so hard to help plan, organise and check the leadership team’s work, this ensures the event is shaped to what the Scouts and Guides desire after all this was their idea. They have gained so much confidence and many skills through event planning and a desire to be recognised for their hard work.”

The Salisbury & South Wilts Scouts group has announced its plans for the Minehead Jamboree, an event open to Scouts and Guides from around the country. The weekend jamboree takes place in January 2023 with the event taking over the entire

Butlins Resort in Minehead. The event is open to both Scouts and Guides, aged eight and over and is expected to attract over 1,000 attendees.

Those attending will experience a weekend full of activities and

He continued: “Over the weekend these young people will not only enjoy great activities that will encourage them to push their limits but they will also get the chance to learn new skills, supporting the Scouting aim – to help actively engage and support these young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.”

Folk

Arts

Entertainment

Celebrate Voice showcases the best of British vocal talent this October

Leading music festival

Celebrate Voice returns to Salisbury in October. Artistic director, Lynsey Docherty, has hand-picked a programme that features an impressive line-up of leading musical and vocal performers from the worlds of opera, cabaret and jazz for Celebrate Voice’s ninth festival, which takes place in the Guildhall from 20-29th October.

“It’s a testament to the festival’s place in Salisbury’s cultural and community calendar that Salisbury City Council gifted the magnificent Guildhall to Celebrate Voice,” said festival organiser Lynsey Docherty.

“I’m very proud of how the festival has grown over nine years and stayed true to the ethos of producing a first-class quality event, while engaging in a profound, holistic way, using music as a therapeutic tool for social inclusion and heightened wellbeing.”

A ‘best of British’ theme runs throughout this year’s festival with celebrated performers from the West End, leading opera houses and from the recent Edinburgh Festival.

Highlights include a performance from one of the UK’s leading jazz stars, award-winning singer, Claire Martin OBE. Described as ‘one of the crown jewels of the jazz world’, she will bring an international level of vocal performance which has become synonymous with the festival’s jazz offer.

Lynsey added: “Bringing leading singers from the West End, the national opera houses and Edinburgh to my home city is exciting, and having so many singers engage so authentically with local people in the daytime community events is something incredibly special.

And indeed the hosts, volunteers and supporters are invested in the festival in a way

which is not always seen, but is worth a celebration in itself.”

Olivier Award-winning West End star and actress, Janie Dee, will take a short break from filming a new series for Paramount to celebrate the talent of composer, singer and writer Noel Coward. She will be performing ‘Coward & Friends’ with King of Cabaret, Stefan Bednarcyzk in a show specially curated for the festival.

Fresh from the Edinburgh Festival, Fringe sensation, Paulus will present ‘Looking for me Friend – The Music of Victoria Wood’, his critically acclaimed tribute to one of Britain’s favourite comics.

As part of a special cabaret double bill, Caroline Kennedy will star as Bumbleina, an ‘irresistibly funny’ single 30-something, looking for love via a dating app. Also fresh from Edinburgh, Liza Pulman from the comedy trio Fascinating Aida will open the festival with her brand new show ‘The Heart of It’.

Elsewhere, a leading British opera cast will celebrate British operetta with four performances of Gilbert and Sullivan’s comedy The Pirates of Penzance. The cast will be staying with local families during the festival.

The festival is about more than just bringing leading performers to the city. Community events have always played an important role in Celebrate Voice festivals and this year is no exception.

Events include a gala for older people, music workshops for people with memory loss and dementia, a whole day devoted to young adults with SEND creating a show with the festival’s opera singers, as well as a host of musical family events.

For tickets, visit https://www. celebratevoice.co.uk/ticketsfaqs.html

Top: Award-winning jazz singer Claire Martin, credit: Kenny McCracken

Above: Liz Pulman opens the festival with her show, The Heart of It

Julie Jenkins Line and Form solo exhibition at the Mill

Fishteron Mill is hosting a solo exhibition throughout October by mixed media artist Julie Jenkins. Featuring evocative landscape and portrait subjects, her artwork has been influenced by widespread travel to remote locations and the sense of spirituality it brought her.

Julie said about her work:

“The process of creation is a joy, from the initial concept to the rhythm of flowing lines and colour that form the image on paper.”

The exhibition is free and is open Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, and Saturday from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Julie will be at the gallery every Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm and on Saturdays from 12.30pm to 3.30pm until the exhibition ends on 29th October.

Julie trained and worked as a graphic designer in London. She has exhibited her work internationally and nationally. She has exhibited at the Society of Graphic Fine Art, London and has held solo exhibitions in Brighton Festival, Guildford House, Dorset and Wiltshire and has participated in Somerset Art Weeks from her home in Wincanton since 2004.

Sarum spectacular returns with a renaissance theme

Sarum Lights returns to Salisbury Cathedral in November with a renaissance theme that promises to take visitors on a spellbinding journey into the world of the great Italian masters.

This year’s light and sound spectacular has been created by Luxumuralis, the team behind the Cathedral’s successful shows in 2020 and 2021. Tickets are already on sale.

With exterior and interior displays, the immersive experience will draw the viewer into the heart of some of the greatest paintings and artworks, rekindling the wonder and excitement that must have been felt over 600 years ago during the extraordinary period we now call the renaissance.

This was a time of major transformation in all parts of European society – cultural, artistic, scientific, political, geographic and economic.

Extending from the late 1400s to the 1600s, it is now seen period that bridges the gap between the so-called ‘dark ages’ and the modern world, producing artists, architects, musicians, philosophers and scientists who remain household names – not forgetting, the famous Medici family.

Sarum Lights – Renaissance will see music and lights projected onto the Cathedral’s West Front, in the Cloisters and in the main Cathedral building and will run from Tuesday 8th to Saturday 12th November.

The event forms part of the Cathedral’s pioneering arts policy that seeks to use the medium of visual art to inspire and allow contemplation of the Cathedral from a new perspective, to increase its spiritual impact and

enhance the experience of visitors and worshippers.

This year’s show is being be directed by Peter Walker MRBS FRSA, a sculptor and artist whose work has been seen nationally and internationally, with musical composition produced by David Harper who has composed for television, theatre and film.

For tickets and more details visit the Cathedral website www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

Top: Composite of west front of the Cathedral, credit: Ash Mills

New update reveals efforts helping

NEW electric vehicle charging points, improving cycling and walking opportunities and improved public transport are just some of the ways climate change is being addressed in Wiltshire.

That is the view of Wiltshire Council, which has provided an update on efforts to tackle the climate emergency locally.

The Wiltshire Climate Strategy was approved by the council in February and since then the authority has published its delivery plans, which set out how the organisation will become carbon neutral by 2030, and the actions it can take either on its own alone or in partnership with others, to lead the transition to a carbon neutral county.

The council’s strategy is split into the themes of transport, housing and the built environment, natural environment, energy, green economy waste, and carbon neutral council – with lots of progress made in each.

Now, they have broken down the efforts, which are:

Council efforts Transport

• The council has carried out a tender process for provision and replacement of electric vehicle charging points at towns with a population of 10,000 or more.

• It will also be rolling out a grant to support town and parish councils to install electric vehicle charging points in their local area. A well-attended webinar was recently held to provide town and parishes more information.

• To encourage active travel, Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) are being developed to improve cycling and walking opportunities throughout the county – working closely with town councils.

• To ensure air quality throughout the county can be

monitored as effectively as possible, old monitoring stations will be replaced using community infrastructure funding.

• The council has recently completed cycling and walking schemes on Hilperton Road in Trowbridge and on the B3108 Winsley Road to make the routes safer and easier for children to walk or cycle to school. It has also completed traffic-free routes between Hilperton and Melksham via Semington and on Easton Lane between Chippenham and Corsham to encourage more people to leave their cars at home.

• People being encouraged to use public transport – flexible on demand service being developed for the Pewsey Vale area, and concessionary bus passes can be temporarily used all day Monday to Sunday, including bank holidays. Housing and the built environment

• The council’s Housing Energy Efficiency Programme will retrofit 5,000 council

homes by 2030, with assessment carried out on the first 800. The aim is to reduce the amount of CO2 by 15,000 tonnes which in the process will make the properties more energy efficient and help save residents money.

• The council has also tendered a three-year contract to find a Modern Method of Construction (MMC) delivery partner. MMC is a process which focuses on off-site construction techniques, such as mass production and factory assembly, as alternatives to traditional building. This project will deliver 1,000 new affordable zero carbon homes. Natural environment

• The council hosted a Natural Environment Summit for Wiltshire, which brought together key groups and organisations to discuss opportunities to make meaningful long-term improvements to local biodiversity.

• A Wiltshire Community Environmental Toolkit was developed in partnership with

Natural England to allow communities to take the lead in defining and restoring biodiversity in their local areas.

• Work took place to trial rewilding and wildflower areas across rural road verges and more urban grassy areas and parklands, to increase biodiversity and improve the natural environment.

• The £27m Salisbury River Park transformational scheme aims to reduce flood risk to over 350 homes and businesses in Salisbury. It will also create 2 hectares of enhanced riverside habitat for the benefit of wildlife and more than 600 trees will be planted.

Energy

• To give residents the opportunity to bulk-bid for solar panel technology to help drive down the price, the council worked with Swindon Borough Council and iChoosr to offer the Solar Together Wiltshire scheme. More than 1,000 residents have paid a deposit to install solar photovoltaic panels and/or battery storage.

Green economy

The Salisbury River Park Plan will bring eco benefits, says the council. PICTURE: Wiltshire Council

Wiltshire become carbon neutral

saved each year.

• Thanks to sustained investment in solar photovoltaic technology over time, in 2021/22 the council generated over 550,000 kWh renewable electricity at its own buildings.

• Independent consultants the Anthesis Group found that the council is in a very strong position to meet its carbon neutral commitment by 2030.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, was recently appointed as copresident of the UK100 and is also chair of the Countryside Climate Network.

• The council worked with John of Gaunt School in Trowbridge to bring climate science education and green jobs to life for the next generation through a project called “Embedding Careers into the Maths Curriculum”.

• A draft Green Skills Action plan for Wiltshire and Swindon is being developed and aims to ensure demand for upskilling existing employees in sustainable practices is supported by suitable opportunities.

Waste

• The introduction of a new collections rounds for household residual waste has resulted in a more energy efficient service and less emissions – a review will take place later in 2022 on the efficiency of garden waste rounds.

• The council and its waste contractor have participated in demonstrations and trials of electric waste collection vehicles to inform future service design.

• Diverting sorted black bag waste collected at the household recycling centres (HRCs) to an

energy from waste facility is estimated to have the potential to save more than 10,500 tonnes of CO2e per annum. Based on this and other data, the council is developing proposals to reduce the amount of HRC waste that is sent to landfill.

• A paint re-use trial is taking place at the Amesbury and Salisbury HRCs, which will help the council avoid the expensive treatment costs that disposing of it can incur. It is intended to introduce this scheme at other sites.

• 94.8% of the material collected for recycling, reuse and composting by Wiltshire Council was managed within the UK, reducing the ‘waste miles’ travelled

• The council diverted 80.9% of the waste it managed from landfill (2021/22).

• Subsidised by the council, between August 2021 and June 2022, 749 Green Johanna composting units were purchased by Wiltshire residents – estimated to have collectively diverted over 187 tonnes of food and garden waste from the residual household waste bins,

which saves carbon emissions from collection and treatment.

Carbon neutral council

• Through its developing fleet strategy, the council has ordered 10 electric pool cars, 15 electric vans, and a further 17 electric vans are going through the procurement process.

• The council’s Property Carbon Reduction Programme has so far delivered 50 completed projects with 17 more currently awarded and underway. These range from LED lighting upgrades to PV solar panel installations to the removal of oil fuelled heating and other carbon saving works. This represents a total capital commitment of £3.5m and is so far estimated to save 1,500 tonnes of CO2 per year.

• The £12m project to convert the council’s streetlighting to energy efficient LED lighting is complete for all standard streetlights in Wiltshire. Any remaining units are heritage and special units. The project is predicted to be complete by the end of March 2023. The equivalent of around 1,770 tonnes of CO2 will be

Cllr Clewer said: “Our update report, which summarises just some of the activities and progress of our recent carbon work, is more than 20 pages long, and this demonstrates the breadth of what we’re doing and trying to achieve as a council.

“There’s much more work and no doubt some further challenges ahead but we’re determined to lead from the front, and we hope this will help further galvanise people, communities, partners and organisations to do as much as they can to tackle this issue.

“As stated in our Business Plan, we want Wiltshire to be a place where we are on the path to carbon neutral, and we take a responsibility for the environment. This work is strongly underpinned by our Climate and Natural Environment strategies and they give us a clear direction to head.

“We know there are other very challenging issues dominating the national agenda at the moment, rightly so, but the climate emergency must also remain a focus and it’s at the heart of everything we do as an organisation.”

The update on how it is responding to the Climate Emergency was presented to Cabinet on October 11 and will also report to Full Council on October 18.

Solar panels on libraries, like the above in Gillingham, are increasing renewable energy use, and inset, Wtilshire Council leader, Cllr Richard Clewer. PICTURES: Wiltshire Council

Salisbury FC and Retain Healthcare announce twoyear partnership extension

partnership with Salisbury FC, we feel their values align with ours as they take pride in everything they do. Community engagement is close to our hearts and our staff and customers benefit from going to watch their local club. We wish Salisbury every success over the next two seasons.”

Salisbury Football Club has signed a deal with Retain Healthcare that will see the company remain as the team’s main sponsor for at least the next two years.

The company is already the main kit sponsor and last season sponsored a large sign opposite the main stand.

The new deal also sees the family stand at The Raymond McEnhill Stadium rebranded as the Retain Family Stand with all new signage.

“It is vital to the financial stability of a club like Salisbury FC to have the support of a main sponsor so I am delighted that Retain Healthcare has not

only continued its sponsorship of the club for a further two years but has expanded its offer to include the newly titled ‘Retain Family Stand’,” said Salisbury FC Chairman, Ian Hammond.

Retain Healthcare CEO, David Trowbridge added: “We are delighted to continue our

Mixed start to the season for our local teams

Football

Bemerton Health Harlequins currently sit second in the Wessex Premier Division having won eight of their nine games. The club’s only defeat was away at AFC Portchester who top the table just one place above the team from Salisbury.

Reece Rusher leads the goalscoring charts with 12 goals from just 11 starts.

The last home game resulted in a huge 8-0 win over a Bournemouth side which currently sits in the top half of the table, which bodes well for the rest of the season.

The first team is next in action at home in the cup against Whitchurch United on October 18, with the next home league fixture scheduled for

October 29th against Arlesford Town from Hampshire.

Salisbury FC suffered a 1-0 loss after a long road trip to Truro in the FA Trophy recently, during which influential player Ethan Sutcliffe suffered a serious injury that will put him out of action for some time.

With the first team currently sitting mid-table in the Southern League Premier South, the Whites are next in home league action against the Metropolitan Police on October 22nd.

Rugby Salisbury RFC 1XV has endured a tough start to its Regional 2 Tribute South Central season with just one win from the team’s first five matches.

The men’s senior 2XV and

3XV teams have also faced tough starts and all three teams will be working hard to improve their fortunes as the season progresses.

Hockey

Salisbury Hockey Mens’ 1st team in the very early staged of its season in the South Central Area Men’s Hockey League South Division 1.

So far the team has played two games with one draw and a loss in its last outing.

The Ladies’ 1st team is riding high in the early stages of its South Central Area Women’s Premier Division 2 campaign.

After three games, the team is well placed, second in the table, having secured a 4-1 victory against Basingstoke 2 last week.

The deal retains a family connection for the Trowbridge family, as Salisbury FC Commercial Manager, Ian Pearson explained: “David has several family links with the club, most notably his uncle, Allan Trowbridge who has been a volunteer at the club for decades. When I first met David I knew he was the right fit for Salisbury FC. He got what we were about, and I could tell this was the right partnership for all involved.”

Salisbury FC’s next home fixture is on 22nd October against Metropolitan Police.

Comforting bake for colder nights

by Rebecca Vincent

As the evenings draw in and get cooler I love a nice comforting bake, and this creamy gratin with swede and turnips hits the spot, both tasty and satisfying. Swede and turnips aren’t usually at the top of people’s favourite vegetables but give them a chance!

Swede is a great source of vitamins C, E and the B vitamins, potassium, calcium, magnesium and fibre, and contains small but notable amounts of phosphorus and selenium. Turnips have a similar nutritional profile and are good sources of vitamin C, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.

Swede and turnip gratin

(Serves 2-4)

½ medium swede

1 medium turnip

½ medium white onion

1 garlic clove (finely grated)

Leaves from a small bunch of thyme

150ml double cream (or

plant-based cream)

Pinch of salt and black pepper

Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees. Peel the swede and turnip, cut lengthways and finely slice using a mandolin or carefully by hand. Peel and finely slice the onion. Mix the garlic, thyme and pepper into the cream and set aside.

Layer the slices of turnip, swede and onion in an ovenproof dish. Halfway through pour over half of the cream mixture – giving it a stir first to ensure the flavourings are evening distributed. Continue to layer the vegetables, aiming to finish with a layer of swede, and pour over the remaining mixture. Cover the dish with tin foil and pop in the oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil

and return to the oven for a further 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden.

Lovely served as part of a roast dinner.

As some of you may know I have The Wellbeing Centre at Cole’s Yard in Wincanton, and we are hosting our first half-day retreat on Sunday 6 November. The Lantern Retreat with Kate Ward and myself will include pilates, relaxation, breathwork, some nutrition tips, crafts and refreshments, and will run from 2.30-5.30pm.

For more information or to book please email Kate on katewardmassage@gmail.com n Rebecca Vincent BSc (Hons); BANT-registered nutritionist; phone: 07515 019430; www. rebeccavincentnutrition.co.uk

Sloe gin or flavoured vodka, rest assured the results are the same

By Neil Henty

Okay, so this is very much the time of year when, if you are like me, you look at all of the fruit hanging heavy from the hedegrows and from heavy laden trees drooping over other people’s fences and think ‘I really should do something with that’.

For me, the thoughts are caught up with memories of my grandparents. Living on the back of sandy common land, my grandmother was a great jam maker and my grandfather turned pretty much most things into wine. Just seeing elderberries shining on a tree takes me back to watching him keeping a keen eye on the many demijohns bubbling away under the stairs.

Anyway, a couple of years ago, I took the plunge. And decided to make sloe gin. I’d had it before and didn’t like it. Too sweet, too bitter, too... so I can’t really explain why I did, but I’m glad I went for it. I’m also glad I found a great recipe. It’s simple, easy and tastes great. I’ll admit that I found it on the River Cottage website, which credits the show’s forager John as the originator. Which is good enough for me.

You’ll need 280g of washedm ripe sloes, 140g sugar and about 600ml gin or vodka. But here’s the trick, use vodka, not gin. If you use the latter your sloe gin will taste of the gin’s botanicals with sloes and sugar fighting for the spotlight, which can be a bit nasty

You need just two more things, a 1 litre kilner jar and a great deal of patience. Here’s what you do: Open the lid of the jar, put in the sloes, add the sugar, pour in the vodka, close the lid and shake vigorously. Then put the jar somewhere dark and cool. Every day for a week, give the jar a good shake until all the sugar is dissolved.

Now for the patience. After at least three months, or any time up to a year, strain the liquid using a muslin-lined funnel placed in a

bottle, and these make great gifts so nice bottles will pay dividends here. Then cork the bottle, seal it and store once again in a dark cupboard. The instructions get a bit hazy here, something about waiting another year to drink.

You can drink at this point and the flavour is great. I like it as a a sipping drink. If you wait the colour and flavour both deepen.

Swede and turnip gratin is great served as part of a roast dinner

October is a fruit forager’s heaven

As the leaves begin to turn, the nuts and berries on hedgerows and in woods are ripening. Helen Keating from the Woodland Trust gives her top foraging finds for October, from vitamin C packed rosehips to tasty nuts.

Bullace (Prunus domestica)

Bullace is a wild variety of plum. On a good year, bullace fruits can literally weigh down the hedgerow.

The fruits are similar to damsons and can be used to make crumbles, jams and preserves, fruit wine and fruit liqueurs like sloe gin.

The small, oval fruits can vary in colour but are usually blue, purple or black. They tend to taste acidic until they're ripe.

This is a great late season fruit as it ripens up to six weeks later than many others from October to November.

Beech nuts (Fagus sylvatica)

These edible nuts, or masts, were once used to feed pigs. Beech nuts are still ripening into October. They're a bit small to collect in numbers but they do make a tasty nibble on an autumn walk.

Scrape off the outer brown skin to reveal the triangular seed. If you do collect more than a few, they can be used in a similar way to pine nuts,

sprinkled on salads and risottos. Roast in the oven then place between two tea towels and rub to remove shells.

Beech nuts can be slightly toxic if consumed in large quantities due to the tannins and alkaloids. Look out for pairs of three-sided nuts in bristly cases from mid-September and throughout October.

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana)

Hazelnuts being to ripen when the leaves on the trees change colour. A common tree in woods, hedgerows and gardens, hazel bears its crop of nuts (also called cobnuts and filberts) from late August.

If you’re picking hazelnuts early in the season when they’re still green, the shelled nuts make a tasty nibble to munch on while you’re out walking.If you collect enough, the shelled nuts can be roasted in the oven or used to make hazelnut butter.

It might be advisable to collect hazelnuts when they’re still young and green in late August to mid-September. Most ripe nuts are found in September and October, depending on the weather.

Sloes (Prunus spinosa)

Some people say the best time to pick sloes is after the first frost. The blackthorn is best known for its crop of tart, acidic

fruits used to make the deepred, wintry drink, sloe gin.

The general rule is to pick after the first frost as it softens the skins and helps to release the juices. You can get round this by picking early and freezing at home instead. Make sloe gin or try using sloes for whisky, jams and vinegar.

The blue-black berries are ready for picking from the end of September to December. In some years, blackthorn trees along hedgerows and fields are heavy with fruit.

Sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa)

Look for sweet chestnut trees in woods, parkland and along roads.A favourite at this time of year and a Christmas classic. Sweet chestnut trees were introduced by the Romans.

The nuts can be baked, roasted, boiled or microwaved. Remember to score a cross in them as this will stop them f rom exploding when they are being cooked.

Once cooked and peeled they can be eaten as they are or used in desserts and stuffings. You can also candy them, puree them or store them in syrup.

You’ll find the best crop at the foot of large established trees. Trees start dropping nuts from October and into late autumn and early winter.

Walnut (Juglans regia)

You may find the odd walnut tree on parkland, in urban areas

and housing estates. Walnut trees were first introduced by the Romans.

Crack open the shells to get to the nut. They can be eaten raw (when they're 'wet'), dried or pickled. Dried nuts can apparently be stored for around a year. They can be added to both sweet and savoury dishes.

Trees can be found throughout the UK often in large gardens and parks. The nuts are covered with a green, fleshy husk that starts to split as it ripens.

Pick them in late autumn.

Rosehip (Rosa canina) Make rosehip syrup to help ward off winter colds (see also page 22)..Rosehips are the red and orange seed pods of rose plants commonly found in hedgerows. The hips have a fleshy covering that contains the hairy seeds – the irritant hairs were traditionally used by children to make itching powder. The outer layer is packed with vitamin C and they are renowned for helping stave off winter colds. They are good in wines, jellies, jams and can be used to make a delicately flavoured rosehip syrup for cordial or pouring onto ice cream or pancakes.

Look for bright red rosehips from September to November along hedgerows and woodland fringes. Snip or carefully pull the hips close to the base of each pod (to avoid being attacked by prickly thorns).

Food And drink by the river

By Tristan Ovington

If you have taken a stroll along the River Avon in Salisbury recently you will have noticed a big difference on the site of The Boat House. The bar and restaurant has re-opened under new ownership and management having been closed for the past six years.

The Gazette met assistant manager Bryony Johnson for a leisurely interview by the river to discuss the renovation, reopening and new ownership. “Maria and Steve Harris and their daughter Nathalie bought The Boat House about four months ago, gutting and refurbishing it into the lovely bar and restaurant you see today. It was a team effort to finish it so quickly in just a three-month period. Everyone chipped in with their skills, and with a great deal of hard work, we managed to get it done.”

The riverside location marks the site out as a special place to sit and relax and if you are lucky you might even catch a glimpse of a special guest. “You can have coffee in the morning here at The Boathouse by the river and perhaps catch a glimpse of the

The

The spirit of Dorset...

Aromatic

Piquant

Warming

resident otter a few guests spotted. And then in the evening, come inside or sit outdoors for a bite to eat.”

Apart from the location and the wildlife, what makes The Boat House stand out? “It is an upscale restaurant with a premium bar. A lot of our alcohol you can’t get anywhere else in Salisbury and it is locally made, much like the food from the restaurant. The upstairs restaurant seats 50, downstairs seats 30, and we seat 130 outside.”

And what about food? “During the day, we serve tapas and sandwiches. From 5pm onwards, we have an a la carte menu featuring some really good vegan and vegetarian dishes, on which we have had brilliant feedback. We stock Stonehenge Ales. The executive chef is Mike, who worked at The Stag. He designed the Boat House menu and created recipes for family members who had allergies.”

This will not be the owner’s only venture in the city. The owners are taking over the Old Mill in Harnham, which they plan to open on November 10th.

Enford Farm Shop

Durweston DT11 0QW

Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, fruit, veg, free range eggs and lots more.

Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in fresh that week.

BBQ packs also available.

Half a pig approx £120.

Chicken feeds etc available.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 8.30am-4pm.

Outside shop with self service for essentials open daily 8am-8pm

Antiques

Collectibles

Rothschild Italian marble table forms centrepiece of New Forest house sale

A 200-year-old table valued at £3,500 around 100 years ago when it was bought by Alfred de Rothschild has sold at auction for more than £200,000.

The piece, an Italian micromosaic and marble table, was part of the £1.4 million sale of selected contents from Exbury House in Hampshire, which went under the hammer at the Woolley and Wallis salerooms, in Salisbury.

The metre-high table is believed to have been made by Giacomo Raffaelli, the inventor of the micromosaic technique, who also produced items of furniture for Napoleon Bonaparte at the turn of the 19th century.

It was bought by Alfred de Rothschild during the 1800s, originally for Halton House in Buckinghamshire, where it remained until being moved to Exbury around 100 years ago.

Four telephone bidders fought against a determined buyer in the room at the end of the five-hour sale.

Bidding opened at £35,000 and rapidly passed, what in hindsight provded a very conservative £40,000 to 60,000 guide price.

The room buyer was eventually successful at the final total of £200,000.

“The Rothschild family have long had a well-deserved reputation for sourcing exceptional pieces from high quality and talented craftsmen,” said specialist Mark YuanRichards, who was handling the auction.

“That is exemplified by this piece of finely detailed craftsmanship by one of the leading artists of the time.”

Other highlights of the auction were an 18th Century Chinese cloisonné cong vase at £75,000; a pair of Louis XV ormolu fire dogs, similar to a pair at Waddesdon Manor, which sold for £62,500; a pair of Louis XVI rock crystal and ormolu candlesticks at £37,500; an Italian embossed parade shield from the 19th Century, selling at £60,000, and an important pair of rosewood and ormolumounted tables at £65,000.

The sale concluded with a premium inclusive total of £1,390,875.

Right top: Detail of mosaic; below: the micromosaic and marble table

Credit: Wooley & Wallis

Style the order of the day at auction

WOOLLEY & Wallis will host a Design auction on Wednesday and Thursday, October 19 and 20.

The auction follows design from the Aesthetic Movement of the mid 19th century to designers of today, covering ceramics and glass, furniture and lighting, works on paper, metal ware and jewellery.

Included in the sale is a small collection of items from the descendants of Lewis Foreman Day (1845-1910).

Day was a polymath and

designed for ceramics, textiles, furniture and metalware whilst also writing numerous books on pattern and textile design.

The auction also includes two vases probably designed by Lewis F Day, one for Maw & Co, the other an unknown factory, both consigned by family descendants.

For more information and to browse an online catalogue, log on to the Woolley & Wallis website at www. woolleyandwallis.co.uk.

Clothes, hats, shoes, fabrics and more besides

Acreman St. Antiques Auction Sherborne is holding its specialist Textile, Fashion & Apparel Auction on Friday 21 October with viewing on Thursday 20 October 10am5pm.

This is predominantly a one-owner sale of mostly clothing from the Victorian and Edwardian era, 1920s to 1950s, up to 1970s and 1980s. Hats, shoes and fabrics from the 1960s and 1970s and antique fabrics and lace are also on offer.

Acreman is holding its General Antiques & Collectors Auction on Friday 28 October with viewing on Thursday 27 10am-5pm. It will include jewellery, silver and watches, paintings and prints, ephemera including stamps and postcards, coins, Oriental items and collectables.

Anyone who would like to consign items should contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 50874, or email auction@ acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

Acreman can take in everything from single items and complete collections up to full house clearances at competitive rates. It also offers free valuations every

Wednesday 10am-4pm on items individuals are considering for auction at Acreman Auction, 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3PH.

Antiques

This 1918 Military Cross group awarded to Temporary 2nd Lieut John William Willey DLI is being sold by Duke’s Auctioneers

Duke’s last call for coins and medals

Duke’s of Dorchester is inviting final entries for its Coins and Medals auction whjich will take place on Friday 18 November.

Some exceptional lots have already been consigned including an October 1918 Military Cross group awarded to Temporary 2nd Lieut John William Willey DLI, who signed up at 17 and under age. On 24 October 1918 he was awarded the Military Cross for re-organising his battalion after his commanding officer was wounded.

The attack successfully continued thanks to his level headedness and quick thinking.

The collection will come to auction estimated at £800-

£1,200. An exceedingly rare Second World War Submariners DSM, another highlight of the auction, is estimated at £2,400-£2,800.

It was awarded to Petty Officer Charles Payne, who having survived the sinkings of HMS Pandora and HMS Olympus, even swimming seven miles back to Malta, was killed onboard HMS Traveller aged 31.

Anyone who owns coins or medals and would like confidential free advice or more information about the auction is advised to phone Julian Smith on 01305 265080 or email julian.smith@dukes-auctions. com

Victorian silk and lace

Collection of vintage hats

History New display details Stonehenge’s parallels with Japanese circles

A NEW exhibition at Stonehenge will feature ancient Japanese artefacts – none of which have been displayed in Britain before.

The atrefacts - including a 5,000-year-old Jomon Flame Pot - will feature in the ‘Circles of Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan’, Britain’s first ever exhibition about Japanese stone circles.

The display, through more than 80 objects, aims to tell the remarkable story of prehistoric cultures, 6,000 miles apart.

The star of the show, the ‘Flame Pot’, is designated in Japan as a national treasure and is a highly decorated type of Jomon ceramic made in central Japan about 5,000 years ago.

The Jomon period in Japan spanned the European Mesolithic, Neolithic and early Bronze Age periods put together and the pot’s fantastical shape evokes blazing flames, flowing water, or perhaps the crests of

cockerels.

Ancient Japanese artifacts will be on show.

PICTURE: English Heritage

Britain in the 1920s and British archaeologist William Gowland.

Gowland used the techniques he had learnt in Japan to influence the way in which he carried out excavations and interpreted the evidence at Stonehenge at the dawn of the 20th century.

Martin Allfrey, senior curator for English Heritage, said: “Exploring what is happening elsewhere in the prehistoric world is key to understanding the significance of Stonehenge.

This is the first time it has gone on display outside Japan.

Also featured will be fragments of exquisite clay figurines, known as dogu in Japanese.

These have been found at Jomon settlements and stone circles and it has been suggested they may have represented earth

Holmes at stones

THE world’s most famous detectives will be at the world’s most famous stone circle as they bid to solve a monolithic mystery - and you could join them.

Sherlock Holmes, Dr Watson and Mrs Hudson are returning from Dartmoor, where the ‘great man’ has just solved the mystery of the Hound of the Baskervilles.

Now, he is turning his attention to Stonehenge.

Dr Watson has been reading up on the origins of the monument but will they be able to solve the ‘Mystery of the Stones’?

The Mystery of the Stones will take place on Tuesday, October 25 and Friday, October 28 at the Visitor Centre and will

include British Sign Language interpretation.

Performances take place at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm on both days.

For more details, and to book, log on to https://www. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/stonehenge-mysteryof-the-stones.

goddesses or spirits, for use in fertility or healing rituals.

It is believed that many dogu were intentionally broken and scattered during ceremonies.

The exhibition also explores more recent connections between Stonehenge and Japan through the art of Japanese woodblock printer Yoshijiro Urushibara who worked in

“It’s tantalising to look at what these extraordinary objects from Japan tell us about the similarities between these communities who, while thousands of miles apart, were perhaps ideologically closer than one might imagine.”

Admission to the exhibition will be free to Stonehenge ticket holders, English Heritage and National Trust England members and Local Resident Pass holders.

Halloween ‘Henge

FAMILIES are being urged to gather their little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Stonehenge this half term. Visitors can follow Beano stars Dennis, Gnasher and friends to solve creepy clues on a fun family quest around the site.

The Halloween attraction runs from Saturday, October 22 to Sunday, October 30, between 9.30am and 5pm.

For more information and to book, log on to https://www. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/Stonehengehalloween-2022.

King Henry VIII and the colourful history of the parish register...

by Laura Manning

The Blackmore Vale Family History Group welcomed the secretary of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society to open its new season of talks at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, when Ted Udall gave an entertaining and illuminating presentation on ‘Parish Registers: A Social History’.

It is hard to overestimate the amount of information contained in these registers but, as Ted explained, they are ‘not the whole truth’.

Henry VIII introduced the registers in 1538 after he became Head of the Church of England and incumbents were ordered to record baptisms, marriages and deaths. However, widespread scepticism surrounded the order – perhaps it was to herald a new tax? The official explanation was to ensure that lines of sanguinity were adhered to – certain relationships were not permitted then which are not regarded as problematic nowadays. As always, laws were easier to enforce in London than in more far-flung parts of the country. And, as ever, local people devised ways to pay lip service to the decree – while, generally, ignoring it.

From time to time, laws were enacted requiring every entry into the new register to incur a charge – this was waived for paupers and thus a generous minister was sometimes inclined to write the letter P

next to entries, which indicated that the family was unable to pay the fee. Penalties were levied against defaulters with half of the fine being paid to the informant.

Under the Henry VIII law, clergy were required to enter the details of all church activities into their register on a Sunday, after the morning service. However, weddings, funerals and baptisms could have happened at any time throughout the week – it is probable that many entries were not made and were forgotten about due to adherence to the Law.

Ted showed examples of register entries – including one from Gillingham in which the vicar confirmed that the unfortunate person who had committed ‘self-murder’ was interred, as the law required, away from the main church burial ground between the hours of 9pm and midnight. However, by this time (1834), the requirement to drive a stake through the heart had been repealed.

It is worthwhile taking the time to translate any Latin phrases and entries researchers may find in a parish register – at a time when few people could read or write in English, the clerics felt safe in inserting sometimes scurrilous remarks into the register. Several humorous examples were given – including one from Shillingstone Parish Register in

which the vicar was exceedingly rude – in English – about two people he had just married.

The vicar was extremely rude in this entry from 1742 in the Shillingstone Parish Register about two people he had just married

It was not until 1753 that the format of recording marriages was standardised and parishes were obliged to record more than the bare facts, for example, not just the names of the people getting married. As the church was required to buy these special books from the Government, many preferred to use every page of their current register – although most did, then, enter all the required details. Marriages could now only take place by banns or by licence – and this had to be noted. The names of witnesses were also required, along with the names of the fathers of both the bride and the groom. These details make family history research much easier, of course.

Ted explained where parish

registers are now kept and how they may be accessed –although some were destroyed during the Civil War. He said ‘typos’ are a feature of any modern transcription – his advice was to read the transcription and compare with the original document, if possible.

• The group’s next meeting is on Wednesday 19 October at 7pm in The Exchange – an earlier start than usual. The speaker, Dr Penny Walters, who is attached to Bristol University, will talk about UK censuses from 1801 to the present. Members are looking forward to hearing about the 1921 census taken after the First World War and the flu epidemic – the data from this was only released this year. Further details from blackmorevalegroup@gmail. com or Felicity Harrison on 01258 472942.

Shllingstone Church of the Holy Rood

Church

Cathedral welcomes choristers each with strong choral connections

Three new girl choristers were formally admitted to the Cathedral choir at Evensong on Sunday 2nd October and four other girl choristers were promoted to senior positions.

The new choristers all have strong Cathedral connections. Daisy’s brother Harry sings with the boy's choir; Harriet’s father is the Director of Music at Bishop Wordsworth; Carys’ father is a Lay Vicar (adult singer) in the Cathedral choir.

Like the boys, girl choristers are ‘bumped’ into the choir in a ritual that began over 30 years ago. In keeping with the boys’ bumping tradition, each new girl chorister is lightly tapped on the head with an enormous prayer book into which their names are inscribed afterwards.

Four other choristers – Tilly, Mary, Faith and Ava – were promoted to senior positions during the same service.

The new choristers can now look forward to playing their part in the upcoming Advent and Christmas Services including the magnificent Advent Procession, Darkness to Light which takes place at the end of November.

They also helped to host the Cathedral’s Be A Chorister for a Day event, which took place on Saturday 8th October. This event gave children the opportunity to sing with the Cathedral choir at Evensong, which was recorded and each child given their own personal copy.

Speaking about the day, David Halls, Director of Music,

said: “During lockdown, we started livestreaming and recording services and experimented with lots of different online musical activities, so when we were

planning this year’s Be a Chorister for a Day it seemed logical to do something digital and send children away with a special memory of their time ‘being a chorister’.”

Seven canons become College members

The Bishop of Salisbury, The Right Rev Stephen Lake installed seven new members of Salisbury Cathedral’s College of Canons during Evensong on 4th October.

The seven new canons – four nonresidentiary canons and three lay canons – were invited to become canons by the Bishop, the first since The Right Revd Stephen Lake began his work in the Diocese in June. They are the first to be installed since the new Bishop of Salisbury, The Right Revd Stephen Lake began his work in the Diocese.

Speaking ahead of the service, Bishop Stephen said: “I am delighted that the new canons have taken up the invitation to join the College of Canons. The College is part of the Cathedral’s extended family, drawing the Diocese and Cathedral together. That ‘togetherness’ is important, bringing certainty and confidence in uncertain times.”

The canons bring an impressive range and breadth of experience to their roles and are united in their strong sense of commitment to their community as priests, educators and, in one case, the military. The canons’ varied backgrounds and experience will be an asset to the College, which meets twice a year to provide feedback on policy decisions made by the Chapter, the

Cathedral’s governing body, and on Cathedral activities.

The canons are: The Revd Nick Clarke, Area Dean of Weymouth and Portland, began his working life in a secondary school teaching history. Gillian Clarke, Chair of Salisbury Diocese House of Laity (pictured below), was a former Head of English and Visiting Tutor at Exeter University working with post-graduate trainee English teachers. Gillian joins as a lay canon.

The Revd Rhona Floate spent 20 years in the water industry and plant science research. The Revd Craig Ryalls, Rector of the lively family church of St Paul’s Church, Fisherton Anger (pictured top), joined the ministry straight from Bristol University.

Formerly a Sarum Canon, Loretta Minghella is no stranger to the Cathedral. Now Master of Clare College, Cambridge, the former lawyer and Chief Executive of Christian Aid becomes a lay canon.

The third of the lay canons is Sue Chandler. Like Loretta, Sue has a

background in financial services and spent most of her working life training auditors for JPMorgan Chase. Sue is the Lay Chair of the Blackmore Vale Deanery and a Shillingstone churchwarden. Last but by no means least,

The Venerable Stephen Dunwoody became Archdeacon for the Army in April of this year and was appointed Assistant Chaplain General Army Recruitment and Initial Training Command and Land Warfare Centre. He is also on General Synod.

The Dean of Salisbury, the Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos said: “We are delighted to welcome our new canons, each of whom brings with them their particular insights and experience.

He added: “In these challenging times, it is vital that we work together; the Queen we have known for most of our lives has died; the international situation is troubling, and at home, the current cost-of-living crisis makes it all the more important that our communities unite and care for one another.”

Newly admitted and promoted Choristers with the Dean and Cathedral School Headmaster PICTURE: Finnbarr Webster

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DIVORCE AND CHILD CUSTODY – AGREEING A RELOCATION FOLLOWING A DIVORCE

Darren Francis, Associate Solicitor

Sometimes, usually when a relationship breaks down, the parent with day-to-day care of their children may wish to relocate, either to another part of the United Kingdom (UK) or to another country.

Written Agreements and Mediation Supportare a Sensible Starting Point

Any proposed move needs to be carefully thought out by the parent choosing to relocate. It is always advisable to try and obtain the written agreement of the other parent fi rst, if possible, and to iron out the fi ner details of any proposals.

Whether you or your ex-partner are planning a relocation, any proposals must be reasonable and consider a wide range of factors such as location, schooling, fi nancial arrangements, and agreeing time with each parent.

In certain cases, where the child is considered old enough to express their feelings, these can also be taken into account.

If you are on speaking terms with your ex-partner, then matters can be agreed between you, but should be carefully documented. If you feel that you may need help or guidance to reach an agreement, then Family Mediation is a sensible fi rst step.

Child Arrangements Orders can provide Certainty and Finality

However, if matters become acrimonious or complex, then either parent is entitled to make an application to the Court to try and achieve certainty and fi nality.

If you have already been involved with Court proceedings on this issue, then the Court may have made a Child Arrangements Order to dictate living arrangements or, if a child is going to another country, a Specific Issue Order to allow legal removal.

How Professional Legal Advice can help It is always sensible to get legal advice at the outset as what may appear straightforward may not be possible and removing a child permanently from the jurisdiction of England and Wales, without the other parent’s consent, is a criminal offence.

Seeking legal advice from a solicitor can make all the difference by empowering you to make informed decisions, as well as giving you peace of mind on your rights and what costs may be involved.

If you have any questions concerning arrangements for children upon separation, please contact us to discuss matters with one of our family experts.

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Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: The phantom of the forest

by Susie Curtin

It is not often that I set out into the woods with an agenda, but I have recently discovered a part of the forest that is home to a goshawk, and I feel sure on such a bright sunny autumn day as this, that if I sit here quietly from my vantage point in its territory, I will be rewarded with another brief glimpse of its magnificence.

For those of you who have been fortunate enough to witness the gymnastic, shapeshifting flight of this large hawk darting through the tree trunks, you will know why I have been left wanting more.

In a lifetime of bird watching, I have barely seen these mysterious hawks despite always looking out for them whenever I have been out in extensive woodlands.

Although they are the largest of all our hawks, they are the most secretive and elusive, thus their nickname of ‘phantom of

the forest’.

But last week, just by chance, I happened to spot a

pair flying tandem here over the treetops, their distinctive broad, barred wings clearly visible against the blue sky.

Then, beneath the canopy, I watched in awe as one of them sped effortlessly through the branches and tree trunks, folding and unfolding its wings and tail as it did so.

With its storm-grey back, fierce crimson eyes and a flash of white barring, twice the size of its sparrowhawk cousin, it was unmistakable.

Then, like a phantom, it vaporised amid the conifers and was impossible to detect again. It was over in a couple of seconds, but the thrill of that moment stayed with me for days. A goshawk is the epitome of ‘wildness’.

These extraordinary birds were once driven to extinction in the UK, and they are still the most persecuted of our birds of prey, for they are ferocious hunters taking pheasant, corvids, pigeons, squirrels and rabbits following a long agile chase or a sudden ambush.

Deliberate re-introductions and falconry escapees have enabled the population to recover slightly, but still there are only about 400 breeding pairs.

Late morning has now become late afternoon, and I have only had a momentary

glimpse of my hawk through the birch canopy – a sighting that left more doubt than certainty.

Was that really them?

My attention is drawn to the late flying dragonflies, the speckled wood and comma butterflies that grace the path, a solitary red kite and a pair of buzzards that soar on the thermals and disappear.

The spotted flycatchers have left for home in tropical Africa and there are just a handful of swallows to be seen as autumn draws in.

Eventually, I call it a day, gather my belongings and follow the track alongside the field margin.

As I turn the corner, still feeling slightly disappointed at not having had a good sighting, there before my eyes is a white hart and a small herd of fallow deer. They stop to look at me before trotting deep into the undergrowth.

Immediately my disappointment gives way to gratitude – such an unexpected delight to end the day. Perhaps it is enough after all just to know that my hawks are here whether I see them or not. It has still been a therapeutic, peaceful day immersed in nature.

n Dr Susie Curtin, email curtin.susanna@gmail.com

How to ward off procrastination

by Alice Johnsen

Many years ago we were repairing a barn. It was not an easy job and there was a lot of what can best be described as ‘faffing about’. One of our team suddenly declared: “You just have to get in among it.” We all knew what he meant and the barn was fixed.

It’s a phrase that has stayed with me.

When faced with challenging, demanding, fiddly or just plain boring tasks, we procrastinate. Anxiety grows. The thoughts preceding the task become bigger than the task itself, not to mention distracting and stress-creating. But when we actually start the task our focus shifts away from anticipation to the task itself, whatever it is. We become engaged and in the present by doing rather than thinking how much we didn’t want to do something because we’re absorbed both mentally and physically.

The procrastination before the doing can happen in so many parts of our lives. Starting a difficult conversation. Starting a new job. Starting your revision. Starting a new business or fitness plan. The list is endless, but the point remains the same. Anticipation is

usually worse than the event.

How else can we help ourselves if something like this is hanging over us? A mindset I use regularly with clients is breaking things down to smaller tasks or phases. To quote Henry Ford – he of Ford Cars and, as my newsletter readers will have read last week, he of the creator the five-day week from what was originally a six-day week: “Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.”

So, if you have a task lying ahead of you that is worrying you and becoming bigger in your mind than you know it to really be, try that approach. Try breaking it into phases and setting a target for each phase so you can monitor your progress. With all the distractions of 21st century life, we need all the help we can get to focus and complete tasks. Which leads me to my third top time management tool which is setting a limit for tasks. Accepting the theory any task can fill any time allowed, by setting yourself a realistic time limit for a task you can really help your focus and productivity.

n Alice Johnsen is a life coach based near Sherborne; phone: 07961 080513; email: alicejohnsen.co.uk

Only about 400 breeding pairs of goshawks are left in the UK

Health & Wellbeing

If Napoleon had this cream, history may have been different…

by Fiona Chapman

One of the highlights of walking in the woods in autumn is coming across glossy, tactile and richly coloured horsechestnuts or conkers.

I so understand the obsession of little boys – and girls in my case – of finding the biggest, strongest one to play conkers in the playground. Sadly, you are probably not allowed to do that anymore. Now I just pick them up and rub them – they are rather like worry beads and very comforting to hold.

Aesculus hippocastanum is the glorious Latin name for the tree. The hippocastanum being the ‘horse’ bit of the name. The bark and the conkers themselves have been used for many years

as a herbal remedy for varicose veins, haemorrhoids and venous insufficiency. Edward Bach also used ‘white chestnut’ flower remedy for circling, obsessive thoughts and insomnia. I use this flower essence lots and it really can just calm the mind if you have it in some water by your bed, allowing sleep to come. I will often put it into sleep mix tincture as well, particularly when the brain needs calming.

There have been extensive clinical trials on Aesculus. It can be taken internally to help relieve any congestion in the veins where there is a dull aching and full feeling, particularly around the liver, where it will help with any

headaches associated with congestion of the blood. In specific cases it can be used for high blood pressure. It is very astringent and the tincture can really make it feel as though all your cells shrink and pucker up.

I mostly use it in creams for varicose veins and haemorrhoids with good results. I use a calendula oil base with aesculus tincture mixed with witch-hazel water and then add lavender and frankincense essential oils. I also like to add a little bit of capsicum oil which is definitely slightly off-piste! Chilli is excellent for stagnating blood – it relieves pain and itching and will help to shrink down the vein. If using it for haemorrhoids, it unquestionably takes your mind off the pain of the piles and is a remarkably quick and soothing cream.

It is said that Napoleon was suffering from incredibly painful strangulated piles, constipation, cystitis and exhaustion before the Battle of Waterloo – all of which are linked. History may have been very different if he had had an effective cream for his piles!

Tattooists create Suicide-Safe communities for veterans

Help for Heroes is launching an initiative inviting tattooists across the country to undertake online training to help create suicide-safer communities. The charity also plans to extend the campaign further to reach others in local communities who are likely to meet veterans, such as barbers and hairdressers.

The initiative has been launched in response to research undertaken by the charity that reveals an increase in veterans reporting suicidal thoughts. Working in partnership with suicide prevention charity, Zero Suicide Alliance, Help for Heroes has developed a free 30-minute online ‘Suicide Awareness Training course.’ This is available to anyone, including friends and family of former service personnel.

By taking the training, individuals will gain the confidence to open up the conversation, read between the lines of what veterans are really thinking, and sign post them to help, in the hope of preventing another life lost.

Anecdotal evidence provided by veterans indicates that the close bond developed with

tattoo artists while sitting in the chair means tattooists could play an invaluable role in spotting when someone is struggling. This is also the case with relationships that are built up with barbers, hairdressers and others in public-facing roles.

Aaron Baillie, retired Royal Engineer and now a tattoo artist serving the veteran community, said: “After 22 years in the Army I am now a full-time tattoo artist. I regularly tattoo serving military and veterans.

“A lot of the time the tattoo appointments become almost therapy and venting sessions.

“Having gone through some really tough times during and after my military career I am able to empathise with my customers who become friends. I think tattooists are perfectly placed to take this training and learn how to spot signs when someone might be struggling.”

Help for Heroes will be starting the process of engaging tattoo artists in towns like Salisbury that have high veteran populations. It is hoped that by working

with tattooists the charity will drive real, credible change in the places it is needed most.

The charity will be looking to engage people from other public facing roles in the coming months.

Colin Preece, Psychological Wellbeing Manager at Help for Heroes, added: “As the research suggests, veterans often don’t speak to professionals first. This initiative aims to find a way of opening the conversation with someone they trust and training them to be able to spot the signs.

“In doing so we may well prevent lives being lost to suicide.”

n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (Pellyfiona@gmail.com)

The horse-chestnut tree Aesculus hippocastanum PHOTO: WikimediaImages/ Pixabay

We are recruiting

The care we provide at both The Old Rectory in Stalbridge and Bramley House in Mere and the care that we provide in the community is second to none. Our residential care homes offer excellent care within a true homely environment offering a safe haven for vulnerable people living with dementia and age related conditions. Our residents move safely about our homes and gardens and are encouraged to lead a full and active life.

To many of us the working life inside a residential care home is a mystery, at best you probably have a vision of older people bored and sitting in a circle of chairs and at worst its the thought of providing personal care with toileting and incontinence!

This view could not be further from the reality. Care homes nowadays, especially the smaller family run ones, are a vibrant bustle of busy care workers, all involved with making the lives of the occupants as enjoyable as possible. This is no mean feat, as we all know from examples of friends and relatives in our own lives, the effects of old age can be severe. But, nevertheless, the roll of a carer is to get the best possible outcome for the enjoyment of life for all in their care.

The reality is that life in a good family run care home is exactly like life in any large loving family home; fun, caring, supportive happy, sometimes sad, but overall, a great environment to work and to be part of.

‘In the late eighties, in my very first care job, it was this feeling of ‘family and team togetherness’ that inspired me to dedicate my career to care. Now, several decades on, I have never looked back and every day I still enjoy being able to provide care for those who need it so much’.

Richard Wagner (Director)

ADMINISTRATOR SOUGHT FOR SHAFTESBURY OFFICE.

Would suit Legal Secretary. Pay dependent on experience. Flexible hours (with a minimum of 30 per week). References essential. Please call 07742 419491

Atalian Servest have vacancy for a part time warehouse day cleaner at Sigma Aldrich, Gillingham. Hours : 08.00-11.00 Monday-Friday. Pay £9.50 ph. For further information please contact Mark Smith on 07468693240.

Administrator/Telephonist.

Required for Stalbridge based company. Flexible Hours. Call Peter on 07971007551. Carer needed 3 evenings pw Gillingham 01747 229893

Calf rearer required on dairy farm near Templecombe. 7-10am and 3:30-5:30pm. Please call 07971 486911.

Blandford Community Foodshop 'Nourish' Manager required. 25hrs/week. See https://faith-works.org.uk/get-involved/jobvacancies/ for more information.

Counter assistant with food handling and customer service experience. Full time at Pamphill Butchery, BH21 4ED. Call Ed on 01202857137 or info@pamphilldairy.co.uk.

Part time PA/property manager wanted for small farming/ holiday letting business. Flexible hours, from home or Shaftsbury base. Bjdar31@gmail.com

CRACKMORE GARAGE

small friendly company looking for full time Vehicle Technician/ MOT Tester Required £24,500-£36,500 please send CV to crackmorgarege@gmail.com or contact 01963 251221

J B Garden Services. We are looking for full time Garden maintenance operative to join the team. Experience is preferred but not necessary. Apprentices may apply. Tel 07929094811 cv to jbgardenservices@live.co.uk Holwell Dorset

*FULL-TIME COOK/HOUSEKEEPER REQUIRED*

A lovely Witchampton-based family is looking for an experienced housekeeper to manage their home to a high standard. Duties include:

•Cooking healthy meals

•Meticulous cleaning

•Laundry care

•Dog care & Dog-sitting Live-in or Live-out. References essential. Competitive Salary. Please call 07957 828898 or email:sliiproperty8@gmail.com

ELECTRICIAN REQUIRED:

WD Ritchie LTD - Blandford based building firm specialising in disabled adaptations require a Self-Employed Electrician to carry out electrical adaptions/installs for various projects within domestic properties. Regular on-going work around 2-3 days per week on average. Must be fully qualified and able to issue certification and sign off work as necessary. Must be CIS. Weekly payroll payments on production of invoice & certification. For further details, please contact Lionel Parker 01258-456513

*PART-TIME HOUSEKEEPER REQUIRED*

Live-in or live-out position for an independent, experienced housekeeper to run an informal 6-bedroom house in Moor Crichel to a high standard. Responsibilities include:

•Daily cleaning

•Laundry and ironing

•Dog care & dog sitting

•Organizing maintenance & ensuring the household is in full working order

Approx. 20-25hrs. 5 days/wk. Competitive salary with benefits. Please call 07957 828898 or email:sliiproperty8@gmail.com

Sandroyd

Co-ed Boarding and Day Prep and Pre-Prep School

Cleaner/Domestic Assistant Required Now

We seek a cheerful, energetic and hardworking individual to be part of the School’s cleaning team.

Term time only. Meals provided during working hours.

For further details, please contact: Rupert Burnell Nugent, Sandroyd, Rushmore, Tollard Royal, Nr Salisbury, SP5 5QD

Tel: 01725 516329 bursar@sandroyd.com www.sandroyd.org

Closing date Friday 14 October

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be aware that this post is exempt from the

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Motoring

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS

ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, from small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS

ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, from small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

Diagnostics

Air conditioning Valets

MOTs – class 4, 5 and 7

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Diagnostics

Courtesy Cars

Diagnostics Air Conditioning

UNWANTED

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Air conditioning Valets

Courtesy Cars

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Courtesy Cars

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST

Tel: 01258 459798

Tel: 01258 459798

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com

Symonds & Sampson at The London Office before the West Country Property Showcase.

West Country showcase success for Symonds & Sampson

Undeterred by the financial headlines buyers head to our West Country Property Showcase in London

Symonds & Sampson enjoyed a busy and productive day at our prestigious West Country Property showcase in early October. Head of Agency Jon Summers hosted the event at The London Office in St James’s Place with colleagues Peter Grout-Smith and Morgan Clement.

Undeterred by the financial headlines, buyers head to our West Country Property Showcase in London. Reflecting on the day, Jon commented ‘Having received a strong response to our pre-event campaign, our regional team and colleagues in London were prepared for a busy day. It was reassuring that despite the current economic outlook, we welcomed many

committed buyers seeking to escape city life for the country and coast. During the day we enjoyed meeting buyers in person, many of whom we had communicated with remotely already, and with many who we were interacting with for the first time. We could view and discuss our property stock, sharing photography and floorplans and guiding potential buyers through properties via our virtual viewing portal.’

The London Office in St James’ plays a pivotal role in the marketing of our properties, not only providing exposure in the capital but linking 225 agency branches nationwide to assist clients from across the country when selling and buying property. Bob Bickersteth, Head of The London Office welcomed

Symonds & Sampson back to London. ‘Having partners from regional offices here to talk about specific properties, answer questions and advise buyers before their visits to the West Country is a great benefit’.

If you are considering selling your property, call Jon Summers on 01305 251154 or contact your local Symonds & Sampson office to arrange your free, no obligation market appraisal. As a firm, they can ensure your property is marketed to the widest possible audience by knowledgeable agents, committed to getting you moving.

Left to right: Peter Grout-Smith, Bob Bickerstaff, Jon Summers and Morgan Clement