Salisbury & Avon Gazette Issue 25

What’s inside this issue…

• Top: Shoppers be aware: Date confirmed for Rockbourne Fair page 6

• Above: Unesco warning over Stonehenge heritage status page 16

• Left: Council considers new powers to curb catapult crimes page 8

HRH Duchess of Edinburgh pays visit to Shrewton and Salisbury

HRH DUCHESS of Edinburgh paid visits in the Salisbury area on September 14.

In the morning, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, paid a visit to Gul Outdoor Therapy in Shrewton, which provides outdoor activities to young people and adults.

Her Royal Highness toured the charity’s Riverside site and met young people and adults who benefit from the charity’s work.

Her tour took in the main yard, stables and arena, the forest school, and a therapy garden, where a number of activities were taking place.

The Duchess spoke with people she met, including Maria Pogson, who is currently being supported by the charity.

“The Duchess spent ages talking with me and asking how the horses have helped me,” she said. “I explained that my favourite horse, Fluffy, has made such a massive difference to my life and how I now feel about the world.

“She clearly understood the challenges I have faced and how being around horses and nature can help with people’s personal struggles.”

The Duchess also met two Balmoral ponies, William and Tiger Moth. They are owned by

His Majesty the King and are key to the delivery of equine therapies.

The ponies are especially suited to young people who have never ridden before, or for whom a physical disability might otherwise prevent them from participating.

Dr Celia Grummitt, chief executive of Gul Outdoor Therapy, said: “We are a provider of life-changing mental health support through our work with horses and use of our glorious outdoor spaces in a therapeutic way.

“The visit means such a great deal to our volunteers, staff and trustees, and is recognition of the hard work we have put in to create this amazing facility for the young people of Wiltshire and beyond.

“We were also able to explain to The Duchess about our similar facilities in Carmarthenshire in

Wales, and our plans for new centres as far afield as Orkney.” For more on the charity, visit https://www.guloutdoortherapy. org.uk.

Later the same day, Her Royal Highness was welcomed to the Guildhall by mayor, Cllr Atiqul Hoque – Salisbury’s first Bangladeshi mayor – and the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Sarah Troughton, to celebrate multi-faith Salisbury.

The Duchess unveiled a plaque on a tree which will be planted in the Autumn at Queen Elizabeth Gardens, before being accompanied by the mayor and Lord-Lieutenant for a short walkabout in the Market Place to meet residents, school children, community groups and visitors.

Special guests included the Mayor of Saintes, Bruno Drapron, who hosted Cllr Hoque last July for Bastille Day, as well the Mayoress of Salisbury, the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Canon Chancellor of Salisbury Cathedral, the chairman of Wiltshire Council, and the deputy chief constable.

Mrs Troughton said: “It was a pleasure to welcome HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh to Wiltshire and everyone at the various venues in Shrewton, Salisbury, Downton and Bulford was delighted to meet her.”

Above: HRH Duchess of Edinburgh was welcomed to the Guildhall by Cllr Atiqul Hoque, Mayor of Salisbury and his wife Right: HRH chatting with young people at Gul Outdoor Therapy in Shrewton

The Duchess of Edinburgh meeting people at the Guildhall in Salisbury

Pictures: Salisbury City Council

St Peter’s Academy proud of mini-police

Mural bathes Fisherton Street in glorious colour

FISHERTON Street in Salisbury has been bathed in colour after a street mural was revealed.

The scaffolding has been taken down to reveal the piece, created by artists David Shillinglaw and Lily Mixe.

Their collaboration references the River Avon and global nature, as well as more local ecosystems.

A SCHOOL in Salisbury has appointed south Wiltshire’s first mini-police force.

In total, 24 pupils from Year 5 at St Peter’s CE Primary Academy successfully applied for the post and were presented with official caps, vests and notebooks from local PCSO Val Thorne, early intervention officer, Lucy Wileman and project leader, PSCO Jon Akenhurst.

The mini-police programme supports the principles of preventing crime, reducing anti-social behaviour and building strong, local communities.

By engaging with youngsters, it creates better working relationships between families and the police, as well as safeguarding children and teenagers.

During the ceremony, parents and classmates learnt about the aims of the project and preliminary plans drawn up by the pupils to improve litter and road use on the estate.

Headteacher, Ollie Martindale, remarked: “Our children are proud of their school and this ever-expanding estate. They have some exciting ideas for making it an even safer and happier place to live.

“I couldn’t be more impressed with their community spirit and can’t wait to see the results.”

David and Lily were selected for the job after an national competition, sponsored by Salisbury Civic Society, which took place in January with the brief ‘future’.

The call for entries resulted in 25 submissions and after a rigorous process the judging panel – made up of Fisherton Street traders, the owner of the mural location, a local gallery owner, a councillor and members of the Salisbury Civic Society, selected the piece.

David and Lily have extensive experience of murals, working internationally in places such as Barcelona, New York and Tokyo.

David said: “I am trying to speak in a universal language about universal themes.”

Lily is a figurative and literal artist, placing a strong emphasis on the natural world.

Chair of the Salisbury Civic Society, Stephanie Siddons Deighton, said: “It has been a privilege to work with David and Lily.

“They have provided the Society with an exceptional opportunity to contribute to public art in Salisbury by sponsoring a design that fulfils one of our key aims of shaping the future, while reflecting the lively and diverse nature of

Fisherton Street and its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in this venture. The project would never have been possible without the kind help and support from Angela Ockenden, the owner of the property, and a significant contribution from a

private donor.”

However, the mural has not gone down well with everyone.

Posting on this newspaper’s Facebook post (facebook.com/ SalisburyAvonGazette), some voiced their opposition to the work.

Jennie Reed wrote: “In the right place it would be great, but not where it is.

“In my opinion it cheapens a beautiful, tranquil river walk.”

Hilary Sykes added: “This is so not the right place for it.”

And Wayne Maher said: “The more I look at it I hate it but I guess that’s art. We all have different tastes.

“Maybe in Camden Town it would fit in, but not Salisbury.”

Right: Artists Lily Mixe and David Shillinglaw

Credit: Ash Mills

Main: The mural was made possible with the support of the property owner, Angela Ockenden

Credit: Adrian Harris Photography

PCSOs Val Thorne and Jon Akehurst with St. Peter’s Mini-Police Force

Rockbourne Fair returns to racecourse to raise funds for the Stars Appeal

THE POPULAR Rockbourne Fair returns to Salisbury Racecourse next month.

The event, which organisers say offers ‘unparalleled artisan shopping’, will take place from Wednesday, October 18 to Friday, October 20.

Once again, the event will fundraise for The Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s charity.

The fair is open for late-night shopping on Thursday and features more than 100 handpicked stalls, offering products ranging from fashion, cosmetics, jewellery, gourmet food and luxury homeware, to toys.

Last year, the Rockbourne Fair raised £51,000 for the Stars Appeal. Lord Pembroke, president of the Stars Appeal, said: “The Rockbourne Fair is a win-win for everyone involved.

“Shoppers get a jumpstart on their Christmas lists, and we get invaluable support for our charity. We owe much to the voluntary organising committee whose tireless efforts make this event a yearly success.

“The funds we raise help spearhead projects that create tangible, positive change for both patients and staff at Salisbury District Hospital.”

Bev Moulding, committee chair, said the fair is a celebration of community, as much as a chance for people to pick up some special bargains.

“Rockbourne Fair has always been more than a shopping event - it’s a fun, social experience, supporting small businesses, and of course, supporting our Salisbury Hospital,” she said.

“We welcome everyone to come with their friends, enjoy

Salisbury & Avon Gazette

in

When is the 2023 Rockbourne Fair taking place? The event will be held at Salisbury Racecourse, Wiltshire, SP2 8PN. Parking is free.

● Wednesday, October 18: 10am to 5.30pm

● Thursday, October 19: 10am to 8pm

● Friday, October 20: 9.30am to 3pm

Entry costs £5 (special £3 entry after 6pm on Thursday).

Rockbourne Fair Stars Appeal, a stall holder and browsers from last year’s fair

Credit: Spencer Mulholland

lunch

the restaurant, and ‘Shop the Rock’.”

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Stronger powers to curb anti-social behaviour in city being proposed

GROWING problems involving street drinking and the use of catapults, slingshots and other weapons in Salisbury could see new powers introduced to help police tackle the issues.

Wiltshire Council is considering the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Salisbury - plus the surrounding parishes of Laverstock & Ford, Quidhampton, Netherhampton, Wilton, Alderbury, Odstock and Coombe Bissett - following reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the city.

A PSPO is a tool in the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, which provides wide-ranging tools and powers for local authorities to help tackle anti-social behaviour.

It gives councils the authority to draft and implement PSPOs in response to the ASB issues affecting their communities, provided certain criteria is met.

In Salisbury, the proposed order is designed to address two issues in the city. The first relates to the use of catapults, slingshots and similar items

capable of launching a projectile which could cause harm or damage.

The second part of the proposed order seeks to address ASB linked to street drinking in the city centre, granting police powers to prohibit the drinking of alcohol or having open containers of alcohol in public places.

If implemented, it would mean catapults, alcohol and other items could be confiscated, with anyone refusing to obey the rules issued

Arrest made after police pursue driver in stolen car

A MAN was arrested in Salisbury after a police pursuit on Friday morning.

At around 10.30am on Saturday (September 16), officers responded to reports of a Mercedes, believed to have been stolen during a burglary in the Avon and Somerset Police area, joining the A36 at Warminster.

Wiltshire Police said a pursuit was authorised after the driver failed to stop for officers.

“The vehicle crashed into a central reservation on the A36 and the driver decamped along Meadow Road but was later arrested on suspicion of

dangerous driving and failing to stop,” a spokesperson said.

“He has been transported to custody in the Avon and Somerset area for further questioning.”

Anyone who witnessed the pursuit, or has dash cam footage, should call 101 and quote log number 85 of September 15.

with a £100 on-the-spot fine.

Inspector Tina Osborn, from the Salisbury community policing team, said: “We are always keen to work with local partners to address any community safety issues across the Salisbury area, and we’d be very interested to learn more about the views of local residents through this consultation work.

“Tackling anti-social behaviour is a key priority for us, and this PSPO could be one tool for us to use to crack down on these sort of issues.”

The idea comes after an increase in street drinking and related anti-social behaviour being witnessed by the police and city council CCTV operators, the council said.

The PSPO would not however affect those licensed premises with outdoor seating.

Residents and business owners can now have their say on the plans, to help the council establish whether the proposed PSPO is the right and proportionate action to take.

Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said:

“Following feedback from Wiltshire Police, parish councils and local residents about anti-social behaviour in the city and surrounding parishes, we feel it is an appropriate time to consider the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order.

“As per our Business Plan, we want Wiltshire to be a place where people are safe, and the proposed PSPO hopefully reassures the public, particularly those directly affected, that we take issues such as this very seriously.

“I want to encourage people and business owners to take part in the consultation so we can gather the community’s thoughts and feelings on the issue before making an informed decision.”

The consultation runs for six weeks, until October 30, and all feedback received will be considered before any final decision is made, the council added.

People can find out more about the proposals, and take part in the consultation, at www. wiltshire.gov.uk/article/5038/ Salisbury-PSPO-Order.

Over 20,000 people see our posts on Facebook each month

Tributes to ‘angel’ teen after crash tragedy

THE family of an 18-year-old girl killed in a crash between Ringwood and Matchams have paid tribute to ‘our princess’.

Laionie Kennard, from Verwood, tragically died after a crash on Hurn Road at around 9.30pm on Saturday (September 16).

Dorset Police said it was reported the vehicle involved, a blue BMW 1 Series, had left the carriageway and sustained extensive damage.

Emergency services attended and very sadly 18-year-old Laionie, a passenger in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Laionie was our princess,” her family said. “She was the most kind, caring daughter and sister we could ever have wished for.

“Her smile would light up a room, and she was loved by so many. I cannot explain in words just how much she is going to be missed.

“We would like to thank everyone for their kind and generous donations at this unbelievably hard time, our girl will have the send off she deserves.

“We will love you forever the brightest star in the sky, our Laionie.”

A fundraising effort launched after Laionie’s tragic passing is online at https:// www.gofundme.com/f/our-angel-laioniekennard.

The three other occupants of the vehicle involved in the crash were taken to hospital. One is believed to have sustained serious injuries and the other two are believed to

Shielding Your Home & Estate from Care Costs with a Living Trust

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 have a charge placed upon it or sold by the local council to pay for your care fees. If a person’s capital and savings, including equity in their home, is worth more than £23,250, they will have to fund their own care.

A living trust can shield your home and estate from care costs in the following ways.

Placing your main home into a living trust ring fences the property from any potential future care costs. With a living trust, you can be both a trustee and beneficiary. You can maintain control over your assets even after you pass away. You can specify how and when your assets should be distributed to your beneficiaries.

Other benefits of the trust include the avoidance of probate upon the property and the protection from both divorce & creditors for your beneficiaries. The situation won’t get better over time. The UK’s fastest-growing age group comprises those aged over 85. Councils will face even more pressure on budgets, leaving them with little choice but to continue to sell people’s homes.

To protect your home, contact Oakwood Wills on 07832 331594.

The main thing to remember with a trust is that because you do not own the assets held in the trust in your own name, a charge cannot be placed upon the home.

Chris Tennant Oakwood Wills.

have sustained minor injuries.

Two men and a woman, all aged 18, were arrested on suspicion of driving offences. They have all been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Police Sergeant Mike Gatfield, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “The thoughts of the investigation team and everyone at Dorset Police remain with the family and friends of Laionie Kennard.

“We are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision and I am appealing to any witnesses who have not already spoken to police, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage, to please come forward.

“We would ask that there is no speculation online about this very sad incident while officers continue their detailed enquiries.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, by email to scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230147318. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Laionie Kennard was tragically killed in a crash on Saturday, September 16

Picture: Dorset Police

Possible location of new city police station revealed in planning docs

A NEW police station could be built between Salisbury and Amesbury.

Wiltshire Police is named as a potential tenant for a proposed development adjacent to the High Post Business Park.

The force is named on a planning application submitted to Wiltshire Council outlining an extension of the site, which would see five new buildings built on a 13.4-acre site.

The plan, produced by CSA Architects on behalf of Hibberd Development Ltd, details plans to build offices, general industrial and storage and distribution buildings on a 13.4-acre site, opposite Apsley Precision Engineering, High Post Petrol Station and The Stones Hotel.

And it says the proposed scheme would be split between three tenants - Apsley Precision Engineering Ltd, Wiltshire Police and Nationwide Engineering Group & Concretene Ltd.

The Wiltshire Police part of the development would be some 3,900sqm, over three storeys - described as a ‘policing hub’ - providing a new police base for Salisbury, as pledged by Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Philip Wilkinson.

“It is proposed that Wiltshire Police will take ownership of approximately four acres in the centre of the development to deliver the South Policing Hub for Wiltshire,” the application said.

“At this stage, the proposals for Wiltshire Police are outline only, with subsequent Reserved Matters applications to follow.”

The development would provide 318 visitor and staff parking spaces, it went on.

“The general layout of the Wiltshire Police premises is designed to enable a public frontage facing Mitchell Way and a secure service yard at the rear of the building,” the application said.

“A one-way system circumnavigates the building to control access.”

However, PCC Wilkinson said he could not confirm the location of the new hub, as no contracts have been signed.

“After months of negotiations with site owners, I’m pleased to say a decision on the new Salisbury station is close and we will announce the location as soon as the contract is signed,” he said.

“I’m currently pushing hard to get the last few details signed off as I fully appreciate how important this is for the residents of Salisbury and across the south of the county.

“Once the contract is signed, the chief constable and I will discuss the detail of our policing plans for the south with our residents.”

The application said the Wiltshire Police aspect of the scheme met criteria laid out by

PCC Wilkinson. “After listening to residents during the election campaign, the Salisbury community, councillors, the local MP and senior leaders within Wiltshire Police, it was made clear to the PCC that police estate in Salisbury was an issue,” the application said.

“As a result, in September 2021, the PCC asked the Chief constable to conduct a review into the operational police estate in Salisbury and the south of the county.

“The PCC has stated, “to ensure Wiltshire Police delivers an outstanding police force, trusted by our communities. To do that, we need to invest in improving facilities and ensure the Force is fit to be an agile workforce in the 21st Century.

“Wiltshire Police’s current premises at Bourne Hill are not fit for purpose.

“Wiltshire Police have several specific requirements such as; basic policing actions (briefings, interviews and investigations), provision of confidential spaces, storage space and flexible space (to allow them to change to meet operational requirements).

“Such requirements have directly informed their need to have at least a 1.2 acre site plus space for car parking.

“Geographically, their new site also needs to be within five miles of the Salisbury Ring Road (the application site is four miles from the Ring Road). The close proximity to the A345 also provides easy access to the road network and the lack of immediate residential neighbours limits any potential policing impact.”

For more details, and to comment on the application, log on to wiltshire.gov.uk and search for reference PL/2023/07223.

Thousands at Amesbury Fête for ‘largest ever’ event

THOUSANDS of people visited Amesbury on August Bank Holiday Sunday, for what was perhaps one of the town’s largest ever events.

Organised by The Stonehenge Chamber and Amesbury Carnival Association, the Super Fête event was in its third year, but the first held at its new location at the Boscombe Down QinetiQ Sports pitches, thanks to

support from the MoD/DiO, RAF and QinetiQ.

Attractions at this year’s event included a range of live music, a funfair, a market area with over one hundred stalls and concessions, and a parachute jump display from the Red Devils.

This year also saw a number of new attractions, such as live arena acts, including falconry and a stunt bike show.

event was a

resounding success and plans are already in place to make next year bigger and better.

I’d like to take the opportunity to thank our sponsors, without whom we couldn’t put on a free event of this scale, and everyone who supported the event this year –it was fantastic to see the community come together.”

The date for next year’s event is likely to be late June.

President of Amesbury Carnival Association, Phil Monk, said: “The

Charity walkers put their best feet forward to celebrate and remember

WALKERS put their best feet forward for a charity fundraiser in Salisbury.

Supporters of the Salisbury Hospice Charity gathered for the group’s second Celebration Walk on Sunday, September 10. Participants took on a five- or 10-mile walk, which started and finished at The Guildhall, to celebrate life and cherish the memories of loved ones.

The afternoon included a performance ukulele band The Salisbury Pluckers, followed by talks from Paula Flower, head of fundraising, a cherished memory from Nikki Spicer, trustee of Salisbury Hospice Charity and a blessing from Kelvin Inglis, Rector of St Thomas’s Church.

Alex from Kidz Love Fit engaged the walkers in a lively

warm-up dance routine, to stretch the muscles in preparation for their walks. Adam Burgess, regional director of main sponsor Apogee Corporation set the

walk in motion by counting down: Three, two, one, go.

As the walkers began their journey around the city centre, they were welcomed into St Thomas’s church to light a

candle of remembrance. At the hospice, walkers were invited to tie a ribbon of their choosing, around the representative Remembrance Tree. While at the finish line, walkers received their living medal and a packet of Forget Me Knot seeds.

Funds raised will help the hospice continue to provide vital, end of life care, which directly benefits patients and families within the community.

Moyra Rowney, event fundraiser, said: “It is always a privilege to be part of the team who put on the Celebration Walk and this year was a wonderful, happy, sometimes emotional, occasion.

“To have raised over £12,000 with funds still coming in is astonishing, and rewarding and very, very humbling.”

Participants set off for the Salisbury Hospice Charity Celebration Walk

Credit: Spencer Mulholland

Solicitors offer support for hospice Will campaign

NAOMI House & Jacksplace, hospices for children and young adults, have received valuable support from some of the area’s solicitor firms for their Make Your Will campaign.

A total of 129 appointments are available from nine firms across Berkshire, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset, including two in Salisbury.

Running throughout September and October, the partnered solicitors are waiving their fee to offer people the opportunity to write a new will, or update a current will.

People who take part are encouraged to make a voluntary donation to Naomi House & Jacksplace.

Last year, donations from the campaign raised over £10k which could help fund over 450 hours of expert nursing care.

Shirlie Juliff-Smith, Make Your Will campaign organiser at Naomi House & Jacksplace said: “We are beyond grateful for the number of appointments given by the solicitors.

“Make Your Will is such an important fundraising campaign for us and we are hoping that we can beat last year’s total.

“Every donation helps to provide outstanding care and support to the families who use Naomi House & Jacksplace.

“There are limited appointments in each area, so book your appointment today.”

The full list of participating solicitors, includes the following located in the Gazette area:

● Batt Broadbent – Salisbury

● Parker Bullen – Andover, Romsey and Salisbury.

Register your interest here: naomihouse.org.uk/ makeyourwill

Council to invest an extra £10m into road resurfacing to improve highways

AT a recent meeting (September 12), Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet agreed to invest a further £10m over the next two years into maintaining and resurfacing the county’s roads.

The £10m of extra funding, which is on top of the £14m the council will spend this financial year on highways maintenance, is being funded through the council’s capital funding programme.

Funds will be spent on preventative maintenance and a road resurfacing programme including small, local repairs to highways; verge repairs on rural roads and materials support to volunteers working on public rights of way.

Work on potholes will continue in parallel, with £2m existing funds and the government’s recent £3.6m additional grant.

The preventative investment will reduce the number of potholes forming on the road network and mitigate the risk of further deterioration; improve road safety across the county for all road users; improve customer satisfaction and reduce the number of highway defect reports to the council, which will save officer time by reducing the number of ad-hoc inspections required and

expensive reactive works.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for Transport, said: “£10m is a huge investment into improving the resilience and safety of Wiltshire’s roads, and one made possible because of our strong financial position and prudent financial management.

“The money will help to prevent potholes and defects forming over the winter months and make our roads safer for all users – and is on top of the £1.3m extra we have invested in renewing road signage, repainting road markings and repairing drainage, plus more than £500,000 we have invested in litter collection for the next two years.

“We manage around 2,700 miles of road here in Wiltshire, and usually we can resurface around 40 to 80 miles each year. This new funding will enable us to resurface at least 130 miles of road each year, plus address deterioration in rural road verges, making it easier for people to get to where they want to go and helping to boost the local economy.

“We know how important Wiltshire roads are to our residents, businesses and visitors, and that’s why before we start this programme, we are going to give our area boards the opportunity to comment on areas identified for improvement and highlight roads they see as a high priority. We will also ensure that roads in all of our 18 community areas receive attention.

“We have committed to having vibrant, well-connected communities with an efficient and effective transport network, and this considerable £10m investment will help us to achieve that.”

The programme of work will begin with identifying the roads due to be resurfaced and giving area boards the opportunity to comment, before the work programme begins in earnest from April 2024 until the end of 2025.

THE Bishop of Salisbury was shown eco-improvements at a school during a recent visit.

The Rt Revd Stephen Lake was at Chilmark Fonthill Bishop CofE Primary School, where school councillors took him on a tour, visiting classes and admiring the Coronation Garden.

Also welcomed were members of teams from Nadder

Energy and South West Heat Pumps, who were responsible

for the recent sustainable heat pump installation at the school. Governors and members of the school community were also invited, including Lady Mary Morrison.

“There was a special assembly with an excellent brass performance from Elm Class and an opportunity for the children to ask Bishop Stephen questions,” a spokesperson said.

Credit: Matt Hoffman/Unsplash

Students show Bishop green credentials

September marks start of a new season for Fordingbridge Camera Club

FORDINGBRIDGE Camera Club’snew season has begun.

Established for over 65 years, the club meets every Wednesday at Avonway Community Centre in Fordingbridge until June 5, with a short break over the Christmas period.

There is a varied mix to the weekly meetings with a variety of talks, competitions and practical evenings.

The club also organises photo walks throughout the year where members are invited to join with other members on walks in local places of photographic interest.

The club hopes to build on the very successful year last year, gaining local and national success with some of the member’s images.

Details of our successes can be seen on the club’s website in the news section.

Bike stolen from Salvation Army Re-Cycles shop

A BIKE was stolen from outside The Salvation Army in Salisbury on Saturday afternoon (September 16).

A distinctive Carrera Fury cycle, which is stainless steel and bright orange colour with colour-keyed tyres, was taken some time between 3pm and 6pm.

It had been restored by the group’s Re-Cycles team and was being sold as part of their fundraising activity.

“The bike had just been prepared by our volunteers, so it is very clean with tyre shine making it stand out,” said Martin Davidson, from Re-Cycles.

“The bike cost around £800 when new and we were selling it for £275.”

He urged anyone who sees the bike to contact the Salvation

Army or the police. Last time they suffered a theft, local people helped the police track the bike using CCTV.

“The picture of the bike is the actual model taken from next to our main doors. All our bikes are locked so I guess the thieves came prepared with bolt cutters. Any help to get the bike back would be appreciated.

“One of the sad things is having to tell our hard-working volunteers that one of the bikes they have spent so long preparing for sale has been stolen.”

In May this year, the club held a very successful two-day exhibition of member’s images at Fordingbridge Town Hall and was also represented at the Ellingham show with a display of member’s prints. The club also judges the public

photographic competition at Ellingham each year.

The programme is designed to appeal to photographers of all abilities with talks by renowned photographers and practical evenings where members can develop their skills or learn new techniques.

The club has a mentoring facility where experienced members are able to assist other members develop their skills with instruction and advice, often on a one-to-one basis.

Full details of the year’s programme, together with a selection of photographs taken by members may be seen on the Club’s website www. fordingbridgecameraclub.org.uk

New members are always welcome. Membership enquiries can be made via the website or alternatively just turn up at a meeting on any Wednesday evening at 7.30.

Milford House residents visit the Army Flying Museum

RESIDENTS

from Milford House regularly enjoy a day out at the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop and the latest trip was no exception.

For one resident in particular it brought back memories of his time serving at what was, during the war, an active base war.

General manager, Gemma Hicks, said: “As the group took a tour they found everyone so helpful and welcoming and a special thank you must go to those serving in the barracks and our wonderful escort, Tom, who let us look at the hanger number 2, where our resident had been

based. He also gave us a peek at the old accommodation buildings where everyone had been billeted and that were still the same ones that had been used in World War II.

“Our group were so blown away by the welcome they received and it was lovely to hear about the stories and memories that were swapped and it meant so much to one resident in particular to be able to retrace his footsteps – it was a very special visit.

“The residents highlighted that the displays inside the museum were fascinating with so much to look at and it definitely won’t be long before we are back.”

Above: Members on a visit to Poole Quay; Below: the club won two awards at the recent Southern Counties Photographic Federation’s Annual Exhibition

Residents and Staff at the Army Flying Museum

Council provides update on revised junction schemes in Salisbury

WILTSHIRE Council has proposed making improvements to two Salisbury road junctions to increase traffic capacity, reduce journey times and improve pedestrian and cycling shared use facilities.

The proposed scheme, which has been revised following feedback from the local community, would include a new southbound lane at Harnham Gyratory to increase capacity and reduce congestion at this busy Salisbury junction.

There would also be changes to the road markings on Exeter Street roundabout to improve traffic flows.

The scheme also looks to move and widen the shared use pedestrian/cycling path that runs from the southern side of New Bridge to Harnham Gyratory, with the wider path to move into the green space, without adversely affecting the mature trees there.

As part of these works, the bus stop on New Bridge Road would be relocated to

accommodate the new lane and a new pedestrian/cyclist priority crossing would be built on Britford Lane.

The scheme would also see two new toucan crossings being installed, along with upgrades to existing crossings and widened footpaths.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport, said: “This scheme aims to improve traffic flows on Harnham Gyratory to reduce congestion, while also making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists to travel along this well-used route into the city centre.

“We’re planning to create an additional lane at Harnham Gyratory to increase capacity and also widen and extend the shared use cycling and walking path to enable more people to walk and cycle into the city with confidence.

“We are working closely with National Highways, which manages the A36 and is working on its own projects to reduce congestion on Southampton Road, to ensure that this scheme complements National Highways’ work.

“We will also be engaging with local stakeholders, such as Salisbury City Council, affected residents, utility companies and walking and cycling groups to seek their views on the proposals.

“The next step for the scheme is for us to work on detailed designs, which we aim to complete in early 2024 and as the plan progresses, we’ll present regular updates at Salisbury Area Board meetings.”

Man found guilty of rape and sexual assault of a child

A MAN has been jailed for 20 years after being found guilty of the rape of a child under 13 Paul Keith Buckland, of Prestonbury Close, Plymouth, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Friday (September 8) after being found guilty of the following charges:

● Two counts of rape of a child under 13;

● Two counts of attempted raped of a child under 13;

● Two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13;

● One count of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child;

● Two counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act. The offences were committed while 35-year-old Buckland, pictured, was living in

Tidworth, Wiltshire.

Buckland refused to attend court to hear his sentence – and this was considered an aggravating factor.

The offences were committed more than 10 years ago but were only reported to Wiltshire Police in 2020. He was subsequently arrested and charged.

He pleaded not guilty to the offences, but was convicted in a trial which ended on June 30. He will now face a lengthy spell behind bars and will be required to sign on to the sex offenders’ register and be subject to a sexual harm prevention order.

Investigating officer DC Louise Thomas, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team at Wiltshire Police, said: “Buckland is an abhorrent individual who

committed unspeakable acts to, and in the presence of, a child.

“Actions such as his have long-lasting and traumatic effects on their victims, which can manifest in myriad ways.

“I’d like to commend the victim in speaking to us about her experiences – I understand how difficult it must have been for her and I hope that this sentence can bring some sort of relief, knowing

Buckland is behind bars.

“This case is a reminder that Wiltshire Police will always investigate reports of sexual assault and child abuse, no matter when the incident took place. This incident took place more than a decade ago but didn’t come to light until 2020 when it was bravely reported to us by the victim and her family.

“Please be reassured that the CAIT team here in Wiltshire Police is totally committed to targeting dangerous offenders like Buckland and protecting innocent victims.”

Anyone wishing to report concerns regarding child sexual abuse should contact police immediately on 101, regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse.

An additional southbound lane will be added to Harnham Gyratory as part of the plans to increase capacity and reduce traffic jams Credit: Google

Unesco warns Stonehenge’s heritage status at risk if A303 scheme goes ahead

PLANS to upgrade the A303 at Stonehenge – including the creation of a tunnel taking traffic through the historic site – should be changed, cultural body UNESCO has said.

A report into the proposed changes to the road – which were approved by the government earlier this year – says the status of Stonehenge and surrounding archaeology as a World Heritage Site could be under threat if the scheme is not amended, the BBC has reported.

“Over the years, the committee and the advisory bodies have been clear and consistent that the proposed A303 improvement scheme should not proceed in its current form,” the BBC reported the UNESCO document as saying.

“The currently proposed western portal and associated dual carriageway within a cutting would have significant and inappropriate adverse impacts on the physical and visual integrity of the property,” it added.

The World Heritage Committee is set to gather in February next year, with UNESCO urging the government to act on changing the proposals before then, it is claimed. Controversial plans for a billion-pound upgrade of the A303 around Stonehenge were approved in July, after a court ruling against them was overturned.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper (Con, Forest of Dean) gave the scheme the green light after a 12-month consultation. National Highways welcomed the decision, saying it would ‘help to unlock

congestion and transform journeys for millions of people using the A303 between the South East and South West’. However, campaigners branded the decision ‘disgraceful’.

President of the Stonehenge Alliance group, Tom Holland, said: “Today, a supposedly Conservative government plans to blow upwards of £2 billion, at a time when the country’s finances are in a shocking state, on a monstrous white elephant of a road development that will permanently disfigure Britain’s most significant and sacred prehistoric landscape.

“The decision of Mark Harper to greenlight the building of a tunnel through a stretch of the World Heritage Site that surrounds Stonehenge is as inexplicable as it is disgraceful.

“Certainly, no one can be in any doubt that the scheme will inflict permanent, irreversible harm on a landscape that is the supreme icon of British archaeology.”

Mentors needed in the Salisbury area to support vulnerable young people

THE YOUTH Adventure Trust is a registered youth development charity providing programmes of outdoor adventure camps and activity days for vulnerable young people from the Swindon and Wiltshire area.

While on the YAT Adventure or YAT Resilience Programme, the young people take part in a range of outdoor activities and experiences which are designed to increase their resilience,

promote self-esteem and help them to develop essential life skills.

The Youth Adventure Trust’s Mentoring Programme, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and the Henry Smith Charity, provides additional help for a select number of young people who would benefit from further individualised support, following completion of the YAT Adventure and Resilience programmes.

Mentors are carefully matched with a young person and work with them on a one-to-one basis within their local community.

Although individual arrangements may vary, mentors meet with their young person

for approximately two hours a fortnight, for a year, providing them with personalised support to achieve the most positive outcomes.

While each young person will have different objectives, all mentors will provide empathy to the challenges that they face and give support, guidance and encouragement throughout the mentoring relationship.

The charity are keen to hear

from individuals who are based in and around the Salisbury and Warminster areas, and who would be interested in becoming a mentor; supporting a young person to achieve their full potential, starting in October this year.

Although beneficial, no previous experience of working with young people is required, as full training will be provided.

All they ask is that you’re enthusiastic, reliable and committed to the mentoring relationship.

If you would like to apply or chat in more detail about becoming a mentoring volunteer, please contact Becky Brotherton-Brown, senior mentoring manager on 07592 644679 or becky@ youthadventuretrust.org.uk

New safer inhaler disposal available at children’s outpatients department

THE CHILDREN’S

Outpatients Department at Salisbury District Hospital has a new ‘green’ way for children and their families to dispose of their used inhalers.

A new dedicated bin for inhalers is now in place for children and their families.

While the gases used in inhalers are safe for people who use them, the propellants in some inhalers contribute to climate change.

Used inhalers typically have 30% of the original propellant remaining in the canister and can remain in the atmosphere for approximately 270 years.

Currently, the most environmentally friendly way to dispose of inhalers is to return them for incineration which significantly degrades the

harmful greenhouse gases they still contain.

Dr Seb Gray, paediatric consultant and sustainability champion at the hospital, and children and young people asthma lead for Bath, North East Somerset, Swindon & Wiltshire, said: “More

environmentally friendly asthma treatment has become a hot topic recently. While some aspects can be debated, inhaler disposal is a clear area for improvement.

“Many young people and families don’t realise that when they’re done with their inhalers, they need to be returned to a dedicated inhaler collection point to reduce the harm to the environment.

“This new initiative is a great way to spread the message about how best to dispose of inhalers. As soon as I heard about it, it was a definite green light from me.

“I’m proud to support this initiative by the hospital’s sustainability team and I know that the children and young people will be delighted to see

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their hospital thinking of their future.”

All used inhalers, minus the spacer, can now be returned to the special bin at Salisbury District Hospital Children’s Outpatient Department, or a local pharmacy for safer disposal. By returning inhalers you’ll also prevent inhaler plastics going to landfill.

The NHS is working to reduce its carbon footprint to net zero by 2040. Medicines account for 25% of emissions within the NHS.

A small number of medicines account for a large portion of the emissions with inhalers making up 3%. And according to Community Pharmacy England ‘more than 65 million inhalers are prescribed every year’.

Dr Seb Gray with inhaler bin

Credit: Gemma Heath

RAAC epitomises crumbling leadership

RECENTLY, Rishi Sunak and education secretary Gillian Keegan came under pressure over the rate of school rebuilds after a spate of sudden failures in RAAC (lightweight concrete) resulting in some students at very short notice, being forced to begin the term from home or in temporary classrooms and cabins. RAAC was intended to be used for only 30 years and in many schools is long past its reliable life span. The recent closures were inevitable and entirely predictable.

The timing of this revelation could not have been worse. The beginning of the school year is an extremely important time for the nation’s children. Sunak acknowledged: “The timing is frustrating,”. Having battled with the teaching profession over pay this year, neglecting to also acknowledge the frustration, additional incredible pressure, and stress inflicted on school leaders and their staff, was unsurprisingly remiss.

The tremendous amount of time and energy invested by all stakeholders to ensure the crucial good start to the school year has been completely undermined in hundreds of schools by this most recent governmentcreated issue to inflict damage to the education of our children.

It is not only the school buildings which are crumbling. Government leadership isn’t holding up too well either.

Gillian Keegan

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

was quick to pass the buck, complaining that “everyone else has sat on their arse”, while she tried to fix the problem. The Prime Minister followed suit denying all responsibility for the situation. The decision to rebuild schools at a rate of 50 a year was made when Sunak was chancellor, despite a DfE submission for funding to the Treasury asking for between 300 and 400 a year to be approved due to “a critical risk to life” from RAAC and other issues.

Leadership is not just about making decisions it is very much about taking responsibility for them too.

On the subject of timing, the emergence of school building chaos didn’t work too well for the PM, coinciding with the first PMQ session since the summer. He was immediately on the back foot. The commons was treated to a performance reminiscent of Boris Johnson’s

disreputable political leadership. It was desperate stuff. Ironically the current crisis was lauded by the PM as a tribute to his government’s sense of responsibility. “New information came to light relatively recently,” and the government “acted on it as swiftly as possible.”

He resorted to one of Johnson’s recycled jibes, referring to Keir Starmer as ‘Captain Hindsight’ for not bringing the situation to his attention sooner, as if that justified his lack of awareness of a problem had been building (pardon the pun) during his time as chancellor.

It was incidentally a completely false allegation. On July 6 this year, Keir Starmer said the Conservative government were “twiddling their thumbs… as school buildings start to crumble.”

Wherever we look there are leadership issues within the highest level of government. The recent appointment of Grant Shapps as defence secretary epitomises the failings. A former chief of the general staff of the British army said: “Now we have a new defence secretary who knows very little about defence ....” Shapps has occupied five cabinet posts in the past year. Shortcomings in leadership roles are increasingly catching up with this government and we are suffering the consequences, but hopefully not for much longer.

Creating a barrier to voting is astonishing

I HAVE had some strong feelings of deja vu recently. Another by-election has been called for the city council, so I am back knocking on doors in Harnham with the Lib Dem team, talking to prospective voters.

I like Harnham very much, the people are friendly and it’s a lovely cycle along the town path. But I spent a significant amount of time there only last year for the last by-election, for the same seat, recently vacated by Conservative councillor, Eleanor Wills.

I have started by knocking on doors of volunteers, checking they are happy to deliver their leaflets, put up Lib Dem posters, and support our candidate. I am having the same conversations as last year about traffic, house building and specific potholes.

Two things remind me that it’s not the same by-election, however. First, I do not have a tiny baby in the sling (the chaos causing toddler can be left happily with dad or grandparent) and second, I now have to have conversations with people about voter ID.

Last year’s by-election was just before the Conservative government introduced rules requiring photo ID at polling stations in order

to vote. There is a list on the Electoral Commission website detailing what counts as photo ID. A passport or driver’s licence is the gold standard. An older person’s bus pass is a valid form of ID but a younger person’s railcard is not.

And if you do not have anything, you can remember – alongside paying the gas bill, sorting our care for your ageing relative, and everything else on your to-do list – to apply for a free voter ID document.

The theoretical argument in favour of voter ID was the ‘overwhelming’ risk of election fraud. So overwhelming that at the 2019 General Election, there were 33 allegations of

impersonation at the polling station, out of more than 58 million votes cast.

Since ID has had to be produced, I have helped on two polling days and on both occasions I have spoken to people who wanted to vote but did not have the correct identification. Indeed, according to the government’s own research, 2% of people in the UK do not have any form of photo ID, while 4% (roughly 2.1m people) do not have a recognised ID for voting. These are people who are unable to exercise their democratic right to choose a representative because they do not carry photo ID.

And now, an Electoral Commission report shows voter ID disproportionately impacts marginalised groups. For a party so focused on removing red tape and trade barriers, I find it astonishing that the Conservatives would create a barrier to people exercising their democratic rights to solve a problem that doesn’t actually exist.

For people in Harnham, I apologise in advance for the number of Lib Dem leaflets, and remind you to dig out your ID when you go to the polling station.

Victoria Charleston Lib Dems Parliamentary spokesperson for Salisbury constituency

We must take responsibility for our health

ONE of the things I have learned during my years of being an elected member of both the City and Wiltshire Council is that most councillors, of whatever political stripe, all want to improve the lives of our residents. Where we tend to differ is in the vehicle by which we get there.

Let’s take Cllr’s Wells piece on the relationship between food providers and the risk to health from obesity as a bit of a test case. As a Conservative, among other things, I believe in minimal government interference in our day-to-day lives and that people should take responsibility for their own actions, which includes their diet and exercise regime.

I get there are exceptions, but weight gain/loss pretty much comes down to some basic mathematics and it’s generally like this: if you eat more calories than you burn your weight increases, if your calorie intake equals your usage your weight stays the same, and if your calorie intake is less than you burn, you lose weight.

To provide some context, the recommended calorie intake per day is

Cllr Sven Hocking Conservative Wiltshire Councillor, Vice Chair Salisbury Area Planning Committee

2,500 for a man and 2000 for a woman. Roughly, 100 calories is what the average person burns running a mile, however, running 25 miles a day is way beyond most people, so the best way to lose weight is not to take in the calories in the first place.

I agree to an extent with Cllr Wells that ‘Big Food’ is not without blame, specifically around the required nutritional labelling which, even on a tin of beans, has been designed by committee, thus comprises a ton of data but is incomprehensible to most without an A-level in chemistry. Much better to have

‘if you eat this tin you’ll consume X calories’.

We live in the new sedentary age, where ease of access to ready meals coupled with the inexorable rise of mobile phone content and on-line streaming is generating the ‘sofa society’ which no longer has to step outside to eat or be entertained. Add to the mix the seeds sown by Tony Blair’s ‘entitlement society’, which threw personal responsibility out of the window, and we have arrived at the door on which hangs the all too common sign…’This is terrible, the government should do something about it’.

I believe it’s not just down to the State to do something, this is about individuals taking control of their own personal health and well-being which means eating sensibly and doing a bit of exercise.

Getting there takes plenty of guts (if you excuse the pun) and a big dose of mental strength, but if you head to Parkrun at Churchill Gardens on Saturday morning you’ll meet plenty of people who have started the journey and will tell you they feel much better for it.

Hampshire to increase payments to residents hosting Ukrainian families

HAMPSHIRE County Council has announced that it will be paying an extra £200 per month to all residents hosting Ukrainian guests as part of the government’s Homes for Ukraine Scheme, until the end of March 2024.

This increase will take the monthly payment to £700.

County Council leader, Cllr Rob Humby, said: “We have seen a hugely positive response from local residents to the plight of the Ukrainian people over the course of the past 18 months or so, with our county welcoming more than 1,600 families as part of the national settlement scheme.

“This extra payment recognises both the important contribution Hampshire hosts continue to make, as well as the

ongoing challenges many may be facing, in terms of cost of living pressures – we therefore want to increase payments again this winter – it feels like the right thing to do.”

He added: “With many hosting arrangements having come, or about to come to an end, we hope that more hosts may also come forward to support the Ukrainian citizens who wish to continue living in our county, albeit temporarily,

Social media politics

SALISBURY MP, John Glen, posted on his Facebook page about plans to tackle strikes among NHS staff:

as well as the small numbers who continue to arrive.”

The new payments will start in October and be funded entirely via the grant paid to upper tier local authorities to support implementation of the Homes for Ukraine scheme locally.

A new recruitment campaign is encouraging local residents to consider hosting, either in the short or the longer term.

It explains how the Homes for Ukraine scheme works, the support that is available for people considering hosting, as well as how to get in touch for further information or with questions.

Hampshire continues to welcome the third highest number of Ukrainian nationals in England.

“We have a responsibility to guarantee patient safety, but BMA union strikes have created around 900,000 cancelled appointments - despite some junior doctors receiving pay rises over 10pc.

“Today, we announced a consultation on expanding minimum service levels to hospital-based health services to protect patient safety and ensure vital appointments go ahead.”

Meanwhile, New Forest West MP, Desmond Swayne, urged a sense of proportion over the RAAC issue. In a post on his website, Concrete: though tempted to profanity, Britain isn’t Finished, Swayne argues that the issue affects only a small amount of schools and that the problem was being dealt with before the story broke.

Credit: Nataliya Smirnova/Unsplash

WELL, the mini-summer in September didn’t last long and already feels like it happened several lifetimes ago, somewhere else entirely.

As I write, rain is lashing against the window, whipping winds have stripped trees of leaves and left my potted plants strewn across the patio.

I suspect the roads are flooded and the dog is hiding in case I feel foolhardy enough to try and take it for a walk.

And the nights are getting nippier.

All this means the season of fruits and mellow mistiness has got a little angry and is gentle (!) nudge to remind us to get our homes and gardens ready for whatever the autumn and winter will bring.

Start with areas that need urgent and prompt attention. Look at the bigger picture first, such as damage to fences, guttering, pots, trees, etc. You need to repair these or have them repaired before any further damage can be wrought upon them or in the case of debris and high winds, someone else’s property.

Lawn areas will need to be raked fairly regularly while the

leaves are falling. Removing leaves and other debris will allow the grass to breathe during the winter, preventing disease. If you have composting facilities, then you can effectively recycle your garden waste for next year.

You can also use a crate or chicken wire to create a leaf mould box. Simply pile up all the fallen leaves in the box and next year you will have nutritious leaf mould for your garden, and if left undisturbed may even provide a warm, winter home for wildlife such as hedgehogs and mice.

October is usually the last chance to mow your lawn ahead of the winter. You don’t want your grass to grow too long over the winter, but also not too short that it can’t make full use of the sunlight it will receive.

If you were planning on re-laying any parts of your lawn, this is a great time to do it. The soil will be moist, there will still be decent levels of sunlight and it will give the turf a chance to embed itself before the colder weather arrives.

Move pots and delicate plants indoors before the worst of the weather arrives, whether

Late September, early October is the perfect time for preparing home and garden for the ravages of winter Credit: Symmol/Unsplash

salisburyandavon.co.uk

Home & Garden/Gardening

in a greenhouse or somewhere suitable in the house. If neither option is available, you can take steps to minimise damage by taking appropriate action, whether that is wrapping pots in hessian or another protective coat, moving to sheltered areas, mulching or covering soil in straw, etc.

Tie up canes and cut back damaged shoots and branches.

If you are planning on

WANTED

feeding wildlife, now is the time to give any feeders a good sterile clean to prevent causing illness.

If you can, take a look at the outside of your house. Is there anything that needs a repair or to be replaced, such as a loose tile or rotten window frame?

Now is the time to attend to those sort of jobs, before rain, frost, ice and snow get through teeth into the fabric of your building.

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Final results of this year’s Big Butterfly Count revealed: it’s been a good year

THE FINAL results of Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count 2023 reveal a better picture for the butterflies than had been feared.

Overall, participants of the Big Butterfly Count enjoyed seeing more butterflies this year than in the previous four summers. In total, more than 1.5 million butterflies and dayflying moths were recorded from July 14 to August 6.

After an all-time low in 2022, when just nine individual butterflies were spotted per count, this year saw an increase to 12 butterflies recorded on average per count.

However, this year’s increase contrasts with long-term trends. Released for the first time this year, trend data reveals that since the Big Butterfly Count started 13 years ago, many species have significantly decreased.

It is a further warning sign that nature everywhere is in crisis – butterflies, as well as forming a vital part of the food chain, are considered significant indicators of the health of the environment.

Following last summer’s heatwave and drought, scientists at Butterfly Conservation called on the public to help them understand the effect the extreme weather was having on the UK’s butterflies. People responded in their thousands,

with almost 95,000 citizen scientists taking part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count, conducting 136,719 15-minute counts in locations such as gardens, parks, school grounds and the countryside.

Dr Zoe Randle, senior surveys officer at Butterfly Conservation, said: “It’s wonderful that so many people have been out enjoying spotting butterflies. We had huge support for the Big Butterfly Count this year, and thanks to the many people who went out during those sunny intervals, we now know that the effects of last year’s drought were not as bad for butterflies as we had feared.

“The mixed weather this year has helped as there has been an abundance of green food plants available for caterpillars, and plenty of nectar-rich flowers for adult butterflies.

“However, while the number of butterflies recorded this summer has been the highest since 2019, the longer-term trends show worrying declines

for some of the UK’s most common butterfly species.”

Red Admirals were spotted most frequently, with 248,077 recorded during the count, an increase of 338% on last year. It was the first time the species, which is increasing in the UK as a result of climate change, has taken the top-spot.

Gatekeeper was next, with 222,896 sightings. This represents a 12% increase on last year and is a small, but welcome, boost for a species that has declined by 28% since the count began.

The Whites took the third and fourth spot, with 216,666 sightings of Large Whites and 190,506 of Small Whites, an 11% and 15% increase on 2022 respectively. Holly Blue had another good summer, with numbers up 66% on 2022, in keeping with its longer-term Big Butterfly Count trend of a 41% increase.

Species that saw a decline from last year include Ringlet, Common Blue and Speckled Wood, all of which also show long-term declines.

Although its numbers have remained steady since 2022, Green-veined White has seen the most severe Big Butterfly Count long-term trend over the longer term, a decrease of 61%.

Dr Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, explained: “One of the biggest threats butterflies in the UK face is habitat loss. While the weather certainly has an impact on numbers from year to year, butterflies, moths and many other species can generally cope with variable weather. What they can’t cope with is habitat destruction.

“Butterflies need a place to live. If they can feed, breed and shelter, they can thrive.”

To find out more about Butterfly Conservation visit: https:// butterfly-conservation.org/

Overall, this year, butterfly numbers were on the increase, however, the common blue, pictured above, experienced a decline in numbers

Former social care worker calls for people to help make polluters pay

FORMER Salisbury social worker Pip Carter is calling for people to ‘raise the alarm’ as part of a national campaign to Make Polluters Pay.

On Saturday, September 23, people will come together in a call for the government to make UK-based fossil fuel giants pay for the impacts of the climate crisis they have caused.

The day of action has been organised by the Make Polluters Pay coalition of charities and campaign groups, including international development agency Christian Aid. It will include pilgrimages, demonstrations and publicity stunts.

Among those taking part is Pip, a former social worker and secretary of the Salisbury Christian Aid Group.

“There are several groups in Salisbury working on climate justice,” the 67-year-old said. “It’s really good to find common ground and work together.

“I’ve been involved with Christian Aid for more than 40 years and through that I’ve become more and more aware of the need to speak out about climate change and climate justice. We should be raising the alarm - and sadly, our current government isn’t taking the necessary action.”

Christian Aid says rising global temperatures, caused by greenhouse gas emissions, are driving the climate crisis, leading to more frequent and severe climate disasters.

And those who have done the least to cause pollution are paying the highest price with loss of lives, livelihoods and culture – things which can never be replaced – as well as damage to homes, roads and schools which they don’t have the resources to repair.

In 2023, more than half a million people were displaced in Malawi after their homes were damaged by Cyclone Freddy.

Meanwhile those responsible, like fossil fuel corporations, continue to make vast profits: in 2022, the combined total profits of BP, ExxonMobil, Shell and Total Energies was around £125.3 billion.

Governments have agreed to create an international Loss and Damage Fund – but right now, the fund is empty. Make Polluters Pay Action Day is about challenging the UK

government to do something about this.

Pip said she would encourage others to join in with the campaign: “We watch programmes about what we [humans] are doing to the Earth and there’s more and more evidence of the damage we’re doing – it’s like the Earth is screaming.

“Some parts of the world are now beyond adapting to climate change; it’s much more serious.

“But I believe we have to have hope and the more of us who can come together, the more we talk to people, the more chance there is the necessary action will be taken.

“Make Polluters Pay Action Day is an opportunity to make our voices heard about the injustice and the impact of climate change for countries around the world.”

Make Polluters Pay Action Day, visit www.christianaid.org.uk

New spaces for reflection in nature to be created for people grieving in Somerset and Wiltshire

DOROTHY House and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust have announced a joint partnership they hope will increase nature connectedness and well-being for people diagnosed with a life-limiting illness or experiencing grief after the death of a loved one.

The partnership announcement follows the success of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s regular wellbeing programmes and events that help participants develop a deeper connection with nature and improve well-being.

With its recently enlarged Firefly Woods, sweeping lawn, views across the Wiltshire countryside and access to the Kennet and Avon canal, Dorothy House Hospice Care’s partnership with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will build on its vision to make death

a part of life and commitment to providing the community with the connectedness to nature and compassion needed in a busy world.

The partnership will begin by connecting the grounds at the Dorothy House Hospice in Winsley, West Wiltshire, to the Kennet and Avon canal path in the valley below.

This will offer those visiting the hospice, as well as the wider community, access in and out of the grounds, alongside access to free digital resources to support anyone experiencing grief.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will also help to further improve the biodiversity on the hospice grounds through the creation of a beautiful wildflower meadow, which will attract pollinators,

such as butterflies and bees. These spaces will allow nature to flourish and provide a welcome solace to anyone experiencing grief and bereavement.

Wayne de Leeuw, chief executive of Dorothy House Hospice, said: “Our vision is to create a place where death is a part of life. By partnering with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, we can enable more people in our community to find space to remember loved ones, reflect and pause from their busy lives in the peaceful and tranquil setting of our amazing grounds.”

Joanna Lewis, CEO of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, said: “We are proud to announce this new partnership with Dorothy House Hospice, enabling us to offer solace and support to those

facing bereavement and grief.

“By restoring biodiversity and increasing access to beautiful natural spaces, we can provide vital refuges for reflection and restoration.”

For those who are grieving, connectedness in nature can offer many benefits and aid healing, by providing a retreat from intrusion of modern life, finding comfort in natural rhythms, by reminding us of the continuum of life and that we and our loved one are still part of something that goes on existing without us.

It can promote mindfulness, allowing the grieving person to anchor themselves in a moment by physically touching, smelling and listening to nature, offering a distraction from a cycle of difficult thoughts.

Pip Carter

Police use National Rural Crime Awareness Week to highlight issues

RURAL crime - particularly the theft of high-value electronics, vehicles and equipment - is on the rise, according to Wiltshire Police.

The force highlighted the issue during National Rural Crime Awareness week, which ran from September 18 to 24.

Since the pandemic, rural crime in Wiltshire has been on the rise across Wiltshire and Swindon, according to ACC Mark Cooper.

“Although we have seen an increase in rural crimes over the past two years they are often under reported,” he said.

“I am asking members of the public to be alert and report any illegal activities they may be a victim of or witness in our rural communities.”

Throughout the week, the Wiltshire force is issuing updates on types of rural crime –and how to report them.

“Our teams will be out meeting farmers and members of the public and will also be engaged in pro-active enforcement activities,” ACC Cooper added.

“Our aim is to deliver safer rural communities, provide reassurance and enhance the trust and confidence in our police force during the week and for the years ahead. Rural crime is something that should concern everyone.

“To put things into perspective, rural communities cover 94% of the geographical

Above: Rural crimes are often under-reported, especially in remoter areas where fewer people live and work

Right: ACC Mark Cooper Wiltshire Police

area of Wiltshire and Swindon and 80% of the land is used for agriculture by 2,329 farms.

“However, there is only 36% of the population living in the rural areas and they are being hit almost daily by both opportunist thieves and organised crime groups.

“This situation must cease and with the help of the public our rural communities will feel empowered, recognised and confident in the Police who are working with them and with partners to make the countryside safe and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.”

Currently, there is no national definition of rural crime, it is regarded as any criminal activity that predominantly impacts on rural communities and business, such as machinery and agricultural theft, livestock theft, livestock worrying, poaching, criminal damage, arson, heritage crime and wildlife crime.

It may also be criminal activity that can take place anywhere in the force area but requires a unique approach due to specific issues associated with rural communities, such as isolation or a lack of access to services, the force said.

For more details on rural crime and how to report it, log on to https://www.wiltshire.police.uk/advice/ advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/

Government backs calls to help customers buy British

FOOD and Farming secretary

Thérèse Coffey has offered a boost to British farmers with a package of measures designed to help people ‘buy British’ and provide farmers with the cash flow they need to invest in their businesses.

Building on the commitment to keep producing 60% of the food we consume here in the UK, and providing a boost to the UK’s £127 billion food and farming sector, the Coffey has backed calls for industry-led action to signpost customers to ‘buy British’ when they shop

online and will support campaigns to endorse the taste and quality of home-grown meat and dairy products.

The government has also confirmed that farmers producing sustainable British food under the government’s environmental land management schemes will be able to use them to help meet public procurement standards, benefiting British farmers and allowing the public sector to benefit from good quality British food.

In addition, a recruitment drive to appoint five extra

agri-food attaches to unlock new trading markets, adding a further boost to the UK’s food and drink exports which bring £24 billion to the British economy.

Thérèse Coffey said: “This government will always back British farmers who produce some of the highest quality food in the world, contribute billions to our economy, and are the custodians of our countryside.

“The government’s flexible and accessible farming schemes are supporting farmers to produce high-quality food while delivering for the environment.

“An increasing number of farmers are taking part in our environmental land management schemes, with 32,000 Countryside Stewardship agreements successfully in place across England for 2023 – a 94% increase since 2020 – and over 6,000 applications already received this year.”

Farming minister, Mark Spencer MP, added: “I will... take on board feedback to ensure our schemes work in the best possible way so farmers can run profitable and sustainable businesses into the future.”

Perfect weekend for healthy hedonists

by Katrina ffiske

VERVE festival was back for its second year at Hatch House over the weekend of September 16 and 17. This festival was a celebration of health, wellness and nature, the ultimate reset deep in the Wiltshire countryside.

As The Evening Standard says, it is “the perfect weekend for healthy hedonists’’.

The festival was larger this year with four dedicated areas for group events: the Verve Stage, the Garden Stage, the Yew Tree Stage and the Woodland Stage.

Each held sessions, including Yoga Asana for Emotional Healing, Harmony Breathwork and Self Esteem, Rapid Transformational Hypnosis Session.

On arrival you were greeted by an array of healthy food, including: Turkish-inspired

pitfire food by Provenance; nourishing bowls and stews by The Plant Deli; Sri Lankan street food by Ceylon and Beyond.

For drinks there was everything from organic coffee via Stable and Ground, herbal tea by Comins and Tea, or if you wanted to step out a little there was gin and juice from Botanico Bars, or English fizz from Bluestone Vineyard.

There was a warm social buzz as people relaxed on the benches and hay bales eating and drinking while listening to live music.

By the side of the elegant backdrop of Hatch House there were stalls offering treatments or selling face creams, bath products, shawls, jewellery and crystals.

Kirstie Garrett, from Eco, was selling her hand-made therapeutic plant-based

products. Local Reflexologists Harriet Combes and Victoria Horne from Southampton were busy all weekend, giving treatments to enhance calm and relaxation in line with the theme of the festival.

You could have CBD treatment by Homewood House or buy CBD products for menopause, PMS and stress from Happy Me. Bramley, based in Fonthill Bishop, used Verve as the launch pad for its new range of face products.

Anna Hayward is one of the

co-organisers with Charlotte Cummings. “We’re very proud of how the weekend went,” Anna said. “We couldn’t be happier and already have received so many emails saying how much people enjoyed the weekend and can’t wait to come back.

“Teachers and stall holders are already booking up for next year which is very exciting. The woodland area was a new idea this year and we are already planning to extend it in 2024.”

It really is a wonderful relaxed way to spend one or two days. There is no dressing up as everyone arrives in leggings and comfortable clothes, ready to relax into the sessions.

When we spoke, Anna was already working on next year’s festival. Keep an eye on the website which will be updated soon, and mark September 14 and 15, 2024, in your diary.

Amesbury Methodist Church to host Eco Fair

THE Mayor of Amesbury, Cllr Monica Devendran, will open an Eco Fair on September 30 which has been organised by members of the Amesbury Methodist Church, including the Methodist Minister for Amesbury the Reverend Rosemary Fletcher.

The fair will include stalls and activities, as well as events for children, all with a common ecological or environmental theme. There will also be a fair trade stall among many others. A number of local charities and organisations will also have a presence at the fair.

The Eco Fair is being held in the Season of Creation, which began on September 1 and will

end on October 4, the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology.

Organisers are keen for visitors to bring in their recycling which will be benefit a number of local charities, specifically:

● Christian Aid

● Printer cartridges – for the Girls Brigade

● Postage Stamps – used and any from your collections – for the RNIB

● Greetings Cards (not Christmas Cards) for recycling into future cards – sold in aid of the Sudan Diocesan Medical Link. The organisers hope that people will walk to the venue, parking will be available at the back of the church.

The church is situated on the High Street opposite the New Inn pub. The Mayor will open the fair at 10am. Refreshments will be served and doors will close at 3pm.

For more information, contact rosemary.fletcher@methodist.org. uk or jim.gillings@btinternet.com

Sunday

Rise in families turning to community bank loans to buy school uniform

ACORN Community Bank has seen a huge rise in the number of members turning to loans to pay for new school uniforms because of the cost of living crisis.

Acorn, which is owned by its members and run on their behalf, provides affordable loans for people unable to get credit elsewhere to prevent them from going to payday loan companies or loan sharks. Members open savings accounts and, provided they meet the loan criteria, can take out loans which are repaid monthly.

In July last year it awarded 188 family loans, but this July the bank issued 384 family loans and loan top-ups, mainly for school uniforms, totalling £129,000.

Chief executive Clive Henly said: “Over the past year, we have seen the number of people using our Family Loans more than double, a lot of this increase is down to people recommending us to their families and friends.

“Many of the people coming to us for a loan have young families, and a small loan can help them buy necessary things for their homes like fridges, washing machines and furnishings.

“As the summer holidays approached,

we saw several of our members returning to us for a top-up to their loan to help them manage the cost of school uniforms for the new term.”

The bank, which lends more than £1 million every year and has more than 8,000 members in Wiltshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, rebranded as Acorn in April after a merger between Wiltshire and Swindon Credit Union, Clivey Credit Union and Swan Community Bank.

Since then its membership has risen

steadily, with 80 new applications in July alone. Of these, 55 joined to borrow for the first time, while the others joined to save.

This month the bank has launched a new Acorn Saver account to encourage more people to save. Members have to save either £4 or £8 a month for three months to have the total savings matched, thanks to funding from Acorn partner, the England Illegal Money Lending Team.

Mr Henly said: “We are very grateful to the England Illegal Money Lending Team, which works closely with us to identify loan sharks and warn people of the dangers of associating with them, for its support.

“We hope this savings account encourages more people to put a little money away regularly because we always urge our members to save a little as they repay their loan, so as to build up a pot of savings for when they really need them.”

The bank is also working with 20 councils and organisations to run Payroll Partnerships, which allows their staff to join the credit union and get preferential rates on loans and attractive savings incentives.

For more details, office@acorncb.co.uk or go to acorncommunitybank.co.uk

Mayor opens house clearance shop in Ringwood

A NEW house clearance shop has opened in Ringwood –offering bargains for a good cause.

Mayor of Ringwood, Cllr Gareth DeBoos, cut the ribbon at the new Lewis-Manning House Clearance Shop in Southampton Road.

Visitors to the opening were treated to refreshments as they browsed the bargains on offer.

Cllr DeBoos said: “What a shop, packed full of fantastic and sustainable bargains, definitely worth a visit.

“It’s a brilliant addition to the town and it’s been a real honour being asked along today to officially open it.”

Director of retail at LewisManning, Susan Newcombe, said: “It was a great occasion opening our eighth hospice shop

today. Our team and the contractors have put their heart and soul into making the new shop as spectacular as it can be.

“We believe that our shops are not just somewhere you can pick up a bargain or drop off your preloved items. They’re a

place you can come to find out more about our services, fundraising events, volunteering, and a place for you to recycle your preloved things and prevent them going to landfill, helping to save the planet.

“Special thanks must go to

the team of incredibly skilled people who have helped to build our shop; Bradlea Builders, MBE electricians, Talis Surveying, Karndean Flooring, Howdens in Ringwood and Frettens Solicitors. And, of course, a huge thank you to the Mayor and his consort for opening the shop.”

She added: “Moving, downsizing or house clearing may be a very stressful time, and our aim is to reduce that stress as much as possible. We can offer flexible, complete or partial house clearances and recycling services.”

For a free no-obligation quote, or to ask any questions, contact the Lewis-Manning team on 01202 119310, or email house.clearance@lewismanning.org.uk.

Chief Executive Clive Henly with some of the Acorn Community Bank team

Visitors at the opening of the Lewis-Manning shop in Ringwood

Sit back, relax and climb on board for an unrivalled holiday experience

ANGELA Holidays has been providing the consummate coach holiday service since their first excursion to Landudno almost 50 years ago.

Since then, our family-run business has prided itself on its first class customer service to a loyal clientele. Now it’s the turn of the next generation as an established team at Angela Holidays seeks to provide an unrivalled holiday experience.

The holiday destinations may have changed over the years but the standards of service which were a hallmark of Angela Holidays back in 1968 remain just as high.

In fact, we take enormous satisfaction from the loyalty of customers who return year after year, safe in the knowledge their travel experience is of the highest possible quality.

The intimate knowledge of our clients and their needs is what sets Angela Holidays apart. From the moment you book, either through our brochure or the easy-to-navigate website, you can be assured that all your needs will be catered for.

Even before you board one of the luxurious coaches which make up our fleet, your itinerary will have been planned to perfection

whether you are travelling as an individual or part of a group.

And with a huge number of pick-up points throughout Hampshire and Dorset, you can be sure you’re never too far from an Angela Holiday.

Once on board, all you need to do is literally sit back and relax, let our friendly and informed staff take care of your every need as you travel to every corner of the country and further afield.

Experience is the touchstone of Angela Holidays and that has not been forgotten even though a new generation has taken over the company reins.

A reputation for excellence is what has served the company wonderfully well throughout its history and the new team are determined to not only maintain that but to reach even greater heights.

We know what makes for the perfect coach holiday experience but we will never forget that it’s our hugely loyal customer base who have made Angela Holidays the first word in high class travel for the older generation.

So when you’re planning a coach holiday, think no further than Angela – the last word in experience and excellence.

“What a spiffing evening!”: Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense

Review by Brian MacReamoinn

FANS often speculate how alike Bertie Wooster and his valet Jeeves are to their creator.

Certainly, PG Wodehouse had the literary allusions at his fingertips and was widely read and hugely imaginative, matching the seemingly infinite capabilities of the imperturbable Jeeves; he was also as wellheeled as man-about-town Bertie, with his popular stories and novels, plus a very lucrative stint in Hollywood earning him considerable sums.

Though the author was not as extrovert as his main character and didn’t get engaged with quite the same alacrity.

Above all, however, Wodehouse possessed a wonderful sense of humour and a supremely elegant prose style. As novelist Evelyn Waugh once commented: “Mr Wodehouse’s idyllic world can never stale. He will continue to release future

generations from captivity that may be more irksome than our own. He has made a world for us to live in and delight in.”

Perfect Nonsense, written by brothers Robert and David Goodale, is based on The Code of the Woosters, a full-length book featuring Jeeves and Wooster. One of the remarkable things about these longer tales

is how the madcap preposterous plot, which is filled with misunderstandings and absurd situations, nevertheless works like an eccentric Swiss watch. Especially remarkable is how only three actors (Luke Barton, Alastair Cope and Patrick Warner) manage to play the bewildering number of characters involved in the

farcical proceedings. The trio are like three spinning plates spinning. The director Marieke Audsley had asked the actors to learn their lines in advance of rehearsals, which meant they didn’t have to hold a script while they were working out all the many complicated movements involved.

This approach has certainly paid off. The witty and fastpaced action and the incredibly quick costume changes have the Salisbury audience roaring with laughter throughout.

Special mention must be made of the elegant Art Deco set (designed by Olivia du Monceau) which is as intricate as a Chinese puzzle and becomes variously Bertie’s louche flat, the stately pile Totleigh Towers, an antiques shop and, in one brilliant scene, a two-seater hurtling through the countryside.

A joyous and comic treat.

Young violinist sets the tone for children’s book talk

TEN year-old violinist, El’Zenia, provided exactly the right atmosphere when Beverley Naidoo came to Salisbury to talk about her latest novel for young people.

Children of the Stone City is aimed at young readers but appeals also to those who are much older. It features a young violinist and a keen skateboarder growing up surrounded by conflict which is not of their making.

Salisbury Concern for Israel-Palestine (SCIP), organisers of the afternoon at Salisbury Methodist Church, is acknowledged in the book credits.

The story was prompted by questions that were posed by children to Beverley on a British Council trip to the Middle East. It is heavily influenced by what she saw and

heard there as well as her own experience of growing up in apartheid South Africa.

Her involvement with the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa led to her being imprisoned in solitary confinement for eight weeks at the age of 21.

Her first novel for children, Journey to Jo’burg, was published in 1985. It is a powerful portrayal of racism seen from a child’s perspective and was banned in South Africa until 1991.

Beverley said: “I believe this work in my birth country prepared me to undertake Children of the Stone City, reflecting a society with deep similarities but in a very different setting. When the British Council took me on author visits to the Occupied Palestinian Territories in 2000

and Amman in 2001, new voices called out to me.

Not even young South Africans addressed questions to me so intensely as these young Palestinians. When asked, ‘Is Justice sleeping or is it a dream? If Justice is sleeping, who will wake Justice up?’ I was stunned. I probably simply said we all had to go on trying ‘to wake justice up’.

“Children often form a hidden presence when the focus is on adult experiences. Moreover, as I began thinking about a possible fictional family and story, I knew that I had to find credible threads of hope.

“Young Palestinian musicians on study visits to the UK convinced me how deeply music mattered in staying resilient.

“In 2016, I spent a couple of weeks visiting schools and projects in Occupied East Jerusalem and the West Bank with Jehan Helou of IBBY (International Board on Books for Young People) Palestine. Visiting the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music in Jerusalem helped crystallise my setting.”

For information on further SCIP activities contact

El’Zenia presented with a signed copy by author Beverley Naidoo

Alistair Cope as Seppings Luke Barton as Bertie Wooster Patrick Warner as Jeeves Credit Marc Brenner

Fordingbridge singers in training for Gareth Malone sing-a-long gig

MEMBERS of the newly-formed musical theatre choir in Fordingbridge are getting ready to take to the stage alongside internationally acclaimed choir director, Gareth Malone.

Sing-Along-a-Gareth will feature 27 choirs and takes place on November 22 at the Beck Theatre, Hayes.

The Fordingbridge Sing Space choir – a Musical Theatre choir for adults – launched in September under the expert guidance of choir leader, Olivia Sparkhall.

“We’re so excited to be performing with Gareth,”cChoir leader Olivia said. “The choir is full of his fans. And his ethos of encouraging singing for everyone really resonated with us.”

And it’s not only singers in this local choir who will get the chance to be part of the show. Sing-Along-a-Gareth invites the audience to open their lungs and join him in song. “What’s unique about Sing-Along-aGareth is the idea that the audience is part of the show,” Olivia said.

“We’ll be encouraging the audience to sing with us, with well-known songs from Queen to Ed Sheeran. Gareth leads the show with his band and professional singers, Sara and Laurel. Sing Space choirs had the chance to be part of his tour last year and the evening was joyful from start to finish.”

The Fordingbridge branch is part of a collective of choirs launched in 2020 by Olivia’s colleague, West End coach to the stars, Rachel Lynes. There are now nearly 1,500 members across England.

The choirs were founded on the belief that singing should prioritise community, mental health and inclusivity, as well as bringing the highest quality and most joyful musical theatre experiences to areas that wouldn’t usually have the opportunity, with West End ambassadors including leading ladies Kerrie Ellis, Cassidy Janson and Alice Fearn.

“Singing in choirs can reduce stress and enhance social connection. It can even improve immune function.Getting to perform in beautiful venues like the Beck

Theatre is the icing on the cake,” Olivia explained.

“Our choirs welcome everyone from professional singers who want to fall in love with singing again, to those who have been too nervous to consider singing in public. There is something for everyone: whether you want to hide in a crowd, or try solos, complex harmonies and new singing techniques.”

Launched in the aftermath of the pandemic, Sing Space choirs are providing an antidote to loneliness through song. In a recent survey, Voice Now suggested that only 3% of the population sing regularly.

Olivia added: “What about the other 97%? We are overjoyed at the success of our launch which proved the demand for more singing.”

The power of the choir extends beyond individual mental well-being; it has the remarkable ability to foster a sense of belonging within a community. In a world that often buzzes with the demands of modern life, the healing power of music and community has emerged as a beacon of hope.

To find out more about the choir, email olivia@singspacechoir.com or visit www. singspacechoir.com/fordingbridge/ To book Sing-Along-a-Gareth: https:// becktheatre.org.uk

Interventions, abstract Wiltshire by Joy Hillyer

JOY Hillyer had a career in law and legal education before taking an honours degree in garden design and attending a series of art courses taught by Sophie Hacker.

From 2012 to 2014 she attended Advanced Painting Practice at Morley College, London (tutors Steve Wright and Guillem Ramos-Porqui). Now, after seven years in Central London, she works from her studio in Wiltshire.

Her collection, ‘Interventions’, combines abstracted images of Wiltshire and the human impact on its landscape with more experimental work where the landscape is less certain and the interventions often dramatic.

Her landscapes aim to convey a sense of place, of placement and exploration within the landscape that goes beyond detailed representation. Particular events or echoes

of memory convey layers of meaning within a deceptively pared down landscape. Some paintings refer more overtly to the tradition of landscape painting with an echo of romanticism and the sublime; others are on a smaller scale and focus on a detail. Other images explore in more depth the human impact on the environment: the

‘Resistance’ series has its roots in the conflict in Ukraine.

Joy’s work reveals a sharpness, a tension and energy that is unsentimental, with colour being as important as form. She has exhibited her work across the south of England including: Westminster Abbey, Winchester Cathedral and Sarum College. One of her Wiltshire images was selected for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2022.

‘Interventions’ will be in Fisherton Mill’s first floor Main Gallery for three weeks, from Saturday, October 14, to Saturday, November 4. Admission is free. The gallery will be open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm, and on Saturday from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Joy will be in the gallery each Tuesday and Saturday, during the exhibition from 11am to 3pm.

Sing Space choir members performing

Going from page to stage at the Fringe

by Brian MacReamoinn

FOR writers, seeing their work being staged live in front of an audience by professionally trained actors under the hand of experienced directors is thrilling and invaluable.

The journey from page to stage is a hard but hugely satisfying one. So next month’s Salisbury Fringe Festival provides a welcome and much-needed opportunity for local authors.

The Fringe is a totally free-of-charge festival that celebrates writing for performance in all its forms – full-length drama, short plays, monologues, poetry.

The 2023 edition kicks off on Friday, October 6 at the Ox Row Inn.

Friday

The Ox Row Inn hosts First Cuts, the opening of the festival. Curtain up is at 7:30pm.

The first in a double bill of gripping theatre, The Daughter, is a relationship drama written across three generations.

As playwright Pete Talman explained: “It seeks to go beyond our stereotypical view of the young and the old, dealing with sexism, fatal attraction and abuse. The main character, 16-year-old Lily, is facing challenges – the boys at school as well as her mum’s new partner. Her one sanctuary is her grandpa. That and her writing.”

The second course on the menu is The Cold Room by Clare Campbell-Collins, a funny, often poignant exploration of love and loss. Clare’s play is set in a Chapel of Rest where an undertaker and a young woman in mourning for her father develop a bond... but are they prepared for what lies behind The Cold Room’s door?

Saturday

On Saturday morning, writers of all levels will benefit from the Fringe’s creative writing workshop, to be held at Boston Tea Party. Can good writing be taught? Does sharing my ideas help? Will I be the next JK Rowling?

“Yes, yes, and probably no,” says workshop leader Jo Derrick.

Prize-winning author Jo, who is based in Wiltshire, will reveal tricks of the trade as well as providing an introduction to plot, setting and character. All that people need to bring with them is a notebook and pen, or laptop/tablet if they prefer.

Over to Hale Hall next for a sparkling show by The Pauline Quirke Academy, a short entertaining play called Superhero Support Group. Pauline might be familiar to readers, from long-running comedy Birds of a Feather

In the afternoon, the Fringe audience at the Ox Row Inn will be treated to an extraordinary tale of mystery and murder, as related by 18th century printer Ebenezer Catchpenny.

He is a writer and publisher of Catchpenny’s Digestibles, a series of sensationalist chapbooks aimed at a public unable to afford more expensive literature. In this vivid telling, set in 1752, Catchpenny, having just produced his latest chapbook, gives a full rendition – through verse and music – of its gallows tale: Twasn’t Me Wot Topped ‘Im, Twere God Wot Done ‘Im In.

This highly original entertainment was devised and written by Tom Roberts. The author has also published copies of Catchpenny’s Digestible, which will be available to buy after the performance.

The focus then shifts to art and a fascinating exhibition by Salisbury-based Karen Welsh at Salisbury Library. In a joint venture with the library as part of Libraries Week, writers have produced responses to a number of the artist’s dazzling paintings (see above) in a series of dramatic monologues, duologues and poems. These will be performed in the exhibition space by actors.

Short Cuts, the weekend’s flagship event, takes place in Hale Hall. Once again, the cream of local playwriting talent provides a series of punchy, entertaining mini-dramas, performed script-in-hand by a superb cast.

The festival putting on an evening of funny, exciting short plays that showcase the writing, acting and directing talent that exists in and around the city.

For this and other shows, the Fringe is very

fortunate to be able to call upon a pool of wonderful actors. One of them, Dan Avery (pictured left), is also in the NHS. He said: “Professional acting and working as an A&E nurse are two very different occupations that go together wonderfully.

“I have a wealth of emotional memories to draw from as an actor thanks to the variety of fascinating characters I encounter and dramatic situations I experience on a regular basis, and, as an actor, I can use my empathy and understanding of people to help me be an effective nurse.”

Sunday Sunday begins with a magical storytelling event at Boston Tea Party. Storyteller Sheila Hirst invites people to tell inspiring and entertaining stories: the theme for this special story gathering is “And then I knew... Come along and share your tale! Salisbury Story Gathering is about true stories told live and without a script to an audience”.

The upstairs room of the Ox Row Inn is the venue for Working on it..., a session of performance poetry. Join poet Andrew Ovenden on a journey through his world in this heartfelt and humorous selection of his works.

Cutting Edge is the home for more experimental work and Castle Street Social Club is where it’s being staged. First up is You by Linda Morse, an intriguing experimental work for two actors and a hat stand (!) that gives cast, director and audience the creative space to decide what is taking place between the trio.

Then the popular monthly Scratch Night –where writers can try out work-in-progress – moves from its regular Friday night slot to Sunday afternoon for a special Fringe edition. These are exciting and provocative pieces by writers from Salisbury and its regions with a Q&A to follow each piece.

Audiences can stay on for the traditional finale to the Fringe, the hugely popular Monologue Mash. In this light-hearted and fast-moving knockout competition, audience members vote for their favourite monologues – and there’s even a prize for the winner.

The long-established Salisbury Fringe is a not-for-profit organisation. The team is very appreciative of the support of all the venues at this year’s Fringe and incredibly grateful for the generous audience donations which help to cover festival expenses – actors’ fees, publicity, lighting/sound hire, among other things.

For more information, please visit: www. salisburyfringe.co.uk/events

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The Goose Steps Out poster with Juicy Auctions

THIS fantastic piece of film memorabilia is up for auction. An original British 30-inch x 40-inch quad poster for the 1942 movie The Goose Steps Out. The poster has been linen backed to preserve it and excellently framed.

It makes a statement piece for any film memorabilia collector, an excellent piece of history to own. This poster was in the hands of an ‘art of film’ dealer until 1980, when it was purchased and excellently stored in a private collection.

Estimate is between £1,000-£2,000.

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DORSET WILTSHIRE JOBS GROUP

For jobseekers and employers

Wilton Antiques Fair

Michael Herbert Memorial Hall, South Street, Wilton, SP2 0JS

Saturday 30 September

Saturday 25 November 9am - 4.30pm

A wide range of Decorative, interesting and unusual items. Antique Furniture, Silver, Jewellery, China and Glass, Militaria, and Motor memorabilia.

FREE ENTRY & FREE PARKING

Next Sale

Watches & Jewellery; Coins, Vertu & Silver; and Militaria & Sporting Related Items

Saturday 14th October

For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website

A certi cated natural saltwater pearl necklace, the pearls 4.0 - 8.0 mm diameter.

SOLD FOR £38,000

WE WILL ALSO BUY

Refreshments: Tea, Coffee and home made cakes.

Contacts: Carol 07870 432805 or Steve 07915 663251 carolfentum@gmail.com salty280@aol.com

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For free verbal valuations please contact and South Kensington, London

Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01747 855122 www.semleyauctioneers.com

SALISBURY & AVON GAZETTE ISSUE 25 P 3 U 1 Z 10 Z 10 L 1 E 1 S 1

Arrow words

Crossword

Security Measures

1 Noms de plume (7)

5 Band travel, perhaps (4)

9 Cosmetic liquids (7)

10 Simple programming language (5)

11 Inexpensive (5)

12 Perform (6)

14 Pressure (6)

16 Undiscovered (6)

18 At some point (3,3)

19 Eighteenth Greek letter (5)

22 Horned African animal (5)

23 Ailment (7)

24 Ancient Persian priests (4)

25 Foment (7)

Down

2 Supple (5)

Brain chain

3 Instead of (2,7,2)

(6)

(7)

4 Guarantee (6)

6 Offensive (7)

(4)

7 Starchy food grain (4)

(7)

(6,5) 13

8 Sugar (7)

10 Ice-cream dessert (6,5)

13 As a single group (2,5)

15 Overseeing, as a company (7)

17 Keyboard writing (6)

20 Someone staying in a hotel (5)

7 3

Passed Away peacefully at his home on Saturday 9th September 2023 Aged 89 A kind-hearted and generous gentleman who will be greatly missed by his Family and Friends.

Education in the Salisbury & Wiltshire Area

Education in the Salisbury & Wiltshire Area

Applying For A Primary School Place

Applying for a school place for your child can be confusing, but there are a number of rules to follow that will make the process a lot clearer. Wiltshire Council has a ra of good advice on its website, which is summarised below.

You Must Apply

First, to be clear, you must apply for a place. You do not receive an automatic place at your nearest school. Also bear in mind, there is no automatic entry from a nursery into a school, and there is no automatic o er of a sibling place.

You can’t apply until the September of the year before your child is due to start and when applying for a place you need to list three schools in preference order.

If your child was born between September 1, 2019 and August 31, 2020, you can start applying for a September 2024 school place. All applications will need to be received by January 15, 2024.

If your child was born between September 1, 2020 and August 31, 2021 they will be due to start in September 2025, which means you can apply for a place between September 1, 2024 and January 15, 2025, and so on. You can apply late, but it will go down on the system as a late application and reduce your chances of receiving your rst choice.

You apply online via the Parent Portal site: https://parentportal. wiltshire.gov.uk/web/portal/pages/home

Before selecting the three schools you will apply to, it is worth considering a number of things:

OPEN MORNINGS

27th September 2023 at 10am and 4th October 2023 at 10am.

At Longford Primary we delight in giving all children the space they need to grow. Places available now. Call us to arrange a visit on 01722 327292 or email admin@longford.wilts.sch.uk

Our friendly school in beautiful surroundings will inspire your child to follow their dreams.

Catchment Area

All schools have a geographical area known as the catchment area. is is important information, because: if there are more applications than places, priority is usually given to children living in the catchment area for a school, however, this does not o er a guaranteed place.

Distance

It is your responsibility as a parent/carer to ensure your child can get to and from school. Distance and transport links, therefore, to local schools is an important consideration. Some schools and councils will o er travel assistance but you will need to nd out whether this is available and suitable before applying.

Number Of Places

Some schools will have more applications than they have places, so it is worth taking the time to understand the county’s and each school’s admission policies before applying. You can nd out more here: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/schools-learning-admissions-criteria

Visit A Number Of Schools

ere are many ways to nd out what a school is like and whether it is likely to meet your requirements and the needs of your child. One way is to visit each school under consideration. is will give you an idea of the school grounds, facilities, learning environments and will be a chance to talk to teachers and support sta . Look out for open days/evenings but you can also email the school directly to ask whether you can nd a convenient time to visit. Wiltshire Council has a handy list of questions you might ask:

• How many children will be in your child’s class?

• How does the school help children to mix and make friends?

• How does the school deal with bullying?

• Does the school support children who need extra help with certain subjects?

Another way to understand more about a school is to look at performance criteria on the Department for Education website and at Ofsted reports. ese alone won’t tell you everything about a school, its culture and whether it is right for your children, but they can help build up a picture of suitability.

Find us on:

Education in the Salisbury & Wiltshire Area Shrewton CE Primary School

ShrewtonCEPrimarySchool

Early Years 2024 Open Events

At Shrewton CE Primary School, our core value of love is at the core of all we do and behind every decision that we make.

Our school is set in the heart of the village of Shrewton, and we pride ourselves on our links within the community. Together as a school we have fundraised and set up a community pantry, we are currently fundraising for new play equipment the local REC and we have close links with the church team and Friends of Shrewton School PTA to give children memorable school experiences.

Children coming to our school have:

- Close relationships with school staff; every child is known as an individual.

- Fortnightly Forest School sessions in our Forest School site.

-Access to emotional wellbeing support if required.

-A broad and balanced curriculum, bespoke to our children.

-A music curriculum that teaches them how to play boom whackers, xlyophones, recorders and ukuleles throughout their school journey.

-A planned programme of trips and visits that build up to a residential in Y6.

-A supportive local community.

-A programme of enrichment days in House Teams.

-Opportunities for families to come into school and family workshops.

If you would like to know more or have a school tour –please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Contact

Tel: 01980 620362

Email: enquiries@shrewton.dsat.org.uk X:

Open Morning - Wednesday 27th September at 9:30am. A

Experience Forest School Session - Wednesday 8th November at 9:30am, a 45 minute experience.

Open Days Available.

Celebrating a special partnership

One of our partnerships in our local community is with GuL. GuL are an alternative provision provider who we are proud to work with closely. Staff from GuL come into school to run social action projects, group sessions for pupils, run our Y5 camping trip and on occasion we have pupils visit GuL to support their provision.

We were honoured to be invited to GuL to show off the amazing work they do when they had a visit from Duchess of Edinburgh recently. She was so warm and kind with the children and could see the power of the work that GuL do to support young people of all ages.

‘Powered by love; we believe, achieve, grow’

Everyone welcome to our planned events or contact the school for a 1:1 tour:

group tour of the school with Mrs Mullord to see the school in action.

Education in the Salisbury & Wiltshire Area

DOWNTON PRIMARY SCHOOL

Discover a world of learning and growth at our primary school!

Join us for an exciting educational journey filled with creativity, discovery, and achievement. Enroll your child today and watch them thrive!

T:

E: admin@downton-pri.wilts.sch.uk

Address: Gravel Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 3LZ

Downton Primary School

At Downton Primary School, we are passionate about learning: our pupils are informed, articulate and empowered. Through our curriculum with its emphasis on the environment and our innovative pedagogy and the rich opportunities we provide, children achieve standards consistently above national.

We know that every child deserves the best possible start to their education. Our excellent teachers inspire children with exciting opportunities for learning. We aim to ensure each child achieves their full potential, both personally and academically.

Learning happens within and beyond the classroom; at Downton Primary School we place a strong emphasis on trips, visiting experts and exploring the environment.

Find out more about how we teach and empower our pupils by looking at our film on the website– or even better come and see us for a one-to-one tour. We would love to see you. Call us on 01725 510556.

Dream, Believe, Achieve

Parents spoken to were overwhelmingly positive. ‘Our children leave trusting the world but excited to learn’ and ‘There is a real sense of family at this school’ were typical comments made. Downton offers a calm but purposeful learning environment. The school’s mantra, ‘Dream, believe and achieve’, shines through.

Staff are united in their determination to ensure that pupils get the best possible start in life. Pupils are proud of their school and enjoy sharing their learning’.

Ofsted Report – 2020

At Downton, pupils have a real sense of being part of a caring family. They treat one another with a high degree of respect and dignity. Pupils have a wide range of opportunities to develop leadership skills and play a major role in daily life. They confidently and independently become agents for change. The level of pupils’ knowledge is evident in the depth of discussions about questions of meaning and purpose. Pupils confidently share ideas, identifying points from both sides of an argument. They learn from one another and how to disagree well. SIAMS inspection - 2022

"Teachers really care and listen when I need help."

Pupil

"Teachers expect us to always do our best. They make our lessons fun but it teaches you a lot too."

Pupil

Don’t take our word for it – come and see us, we would love to see you

CELEBRATING SALISBURY

A Cathedral City of Ageless Beauty���

The medieval city noted for its Cathedral, for good food and drink, it’s tourism and its eclectic mix of shops with everything on its doorstep. Let’s celebrate local businesses that have made this such a lovely place to work and live.

‘Salisbury voted one of the best Towns and Cities in the UK to live’.

CELEBRATING SALISBURY

THE origins of Salisbury, the city we know today, are found in Old Sarum.

An Early Iron Age fort was taken over by the Romans, and the town became an important site under the Saxons.

The Normans built a castle on the mound, and Old Sarum became a bishopric - a district under the control of a bishopin 1075.

The site we now recognise as modern Salisbury began to take shape in 1220, when the cathedral was founded. A city grew around it, with the Black and Grey friaries established in the 13th century.

The city continued to grow, in importance and size, boasting

flourishing cloth and wool trades, as well as becoming a noted producer of cutlery.

This is when the city we know and love today was formed. And many of the streets, in many ways, look much as they would have done some 700 years ago. The cathedral itself and a number of timber buildings remain.

Another thing that has stayed strong is Salisbury is a thriving cultural scene.

Again, the cathedral is at the heart of it all, and remains a hub of music, performance and cultural endeavour. Food too plays an important role in any city's cultural identity, and Salisbury is not found wanting...

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a leader in sustainable business. Since our beginning in 2019, Downton Distillery has benchmarked ethical and sustainable pioneers within our industry, setting a target of where we believe the distillery should be. e commitments we have made to our community and our customers have shaped the way we do business.

Julian Ferraro Jaguar Specialist opened its doors in 1996 repairing all jaguar models; from the Austin Seven Swallow to the modern F-Type.

Kingman’s Butchers take pride in providing top quality meat products to the community of Amesbury and surrounding area.

We carefully select premium quality meats so that you can have the best meal possible. Our sausages, burgers, faggots, pies and scotch eggs are made right here in the shop.

Buying from a butcher’s shop isn’t like being in a supermarket. You have total control over the product you receive.

Kingmans Butchers, giving you quality service

Dave and Deb have been at the helm of the Kingman’s Butchers since 2018 and are rightfully proud of what they have achieved since then.

They have transformed a sleepy little shop into a vibrant and busy place to get all things meat and more. Beef steaks are dry aged on the bone on site and cut to your preferred size for you. Pies, pasties, faggots and scotch eggs are made and cooked on site.

Community is at the heart of what Dave and Deb do and they are passionate about the quality of the service they provide. Both are foodies so can discuss recipe ideas with you or guide you to the best cut for the meal you want to cook, they will probably have the perfect condiment and can even supply the vegetables!

Buying from a butcher’s shop is not like being in a supermarket; If you only want one sausage, that’s fine. If you only want one sausage but want it a foot long, just let them know and they will make one for you from the next batch!

So how much does all this quality meat and quality service cost? Not as much as you might think - Maybe it’s time to pop in and take a look for yourself.

You can find them on the High Street in Amesbury.

Visit

CELEBRATING SALISBURY

THE MUCH-AWAITED gastronomic extravaganza, Taste Salisbury 2023, is just around the corner. With just one month left until the event kicks off, food enthusiasts, culture aficionados, and families are gearing up for an experience that promises to tantalise the senses, while celebrating the heart of Salisbury’s culinary and cultural diversity.

Taste Salisbury 2023 is more than just a food festival, it will showcase the very best of what Salisbury and the surrounding area has to offer – as well as the city’s vibrant flavours, traditions and creativity. Attendees can look forward to a delectable array of local and international cuisines, prepared by renowned chefs and artisans, such as Omari McQueen, Giuseppe Dell’Anno, Lorna Cooper and Professor Charles Spence.

From sizzling street food to elegant fine dining, the festival’s diverse lineup will cater to every palate and preference. In addition to the mouthwatering dishes, Taste Salisbury 2023 is proud to present a series of engaging workshops, interactive cooking demonstrations and cultural performances that will immerse visitors in the rich heritage of the region.

Tickets for the individual events are available for purchase online, and updates can be found on the Experience Salisbury website and social media channels. www.experiencesalisbury.co.uk/

In the heart of Salisbury, there exists a haven for beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike, where premium drinks and craft beer converge in a delightful fusion. Welcome to Sips, a unique bar and bottle shop that thrives on the art of converting even the staunchest non-beer drinkers into aficionados of this revered beverage.

One of the most endearing aspects of Sips is its status as a family-run establishment. Jacob, the proprietor, and his father poured their hearts and soul into building this bar, giving it a personal touch that sets it apart. This sense of commitment and care reflects in every corner of the cozy yet vibrant space.

This month, Sips is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone - 18 months of exceptional service. To mark this occasion, they’re throwing an unforgettable bash on the 30th of September. With DJs spinning tunes all day and complimentary food offerings, it promises to be a memorable celebration for loyal patrons and newcomers alike.

But what truly sets Sips apart is their collaboration with Phantom Brewery from Reading. Together, they’ve brewed a beer that’s causing quite a stir in the craft beer scene. This easy-drinking 4.6% pale ale, infused with Citra, Mosaic, Sabro, and Simcoe hops, is being hailed as the unofficial beer of the upcoming Taste Salisbury festivities. Its harmonious blend of flavors is bound to delight the taste buds of beer connoisseurs and novices alike. Sips isn’t just a bar; it’s an experience. Whether you’re savoring their latest brew, soaking in the family atmosphere, or dancing the night away at their anniversary party, Sips is the place where premium drinks and craft beer create memorable moments. Come discover your beer journey at Sips, where every sip tells a story.

Contactless delivery with a smile

Choose from Fruit, Veg, Salad, Berry & our new Mixed boxes. Also available are our local, free range, award winning Fluffetts large eggs, New Forest Mushrooms, local oil, local honey and a range of Wilton Wholefoods products.

We use local where possible. Less food miles, less plastic, service with a smile.

You

Tuesday - The Maltings (Salisbury)

Thursday - Devizes

Friday - Chippenham

Saturday - The Maltings (Salisbury)

www.centralfruits.co.uk

info@centralfruits.co.uk 07741 252862

A cosy craft and world beer bar and bottle shop in the heart of Salisbury.

4, The Maltings, Salisbury, SP1 1BD

New changes to benefits aim to help disabled people work from home: Minister

SMALL FLOWER GARDEN NEEDS A GARDENER to keep it tidy. Near Ludwell. 07770 536656

CHEERFUL PA / CARER wanted near Tisbury. 07790 524241

and employers

MORE support is to be offered to people with disabilities in a bid to help them work from home, the government has said.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride has revealed a number of benefit reforms to help people find work.

It is hped the changes will also reduce government spending.

However, the minister told the House of Commons the changes to benefit assessments would not apply to those at the end of their life or with severe learning disabilities.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has now launched a consultation on proposed changes to the work capability assessment.

“The work capability assessment doesn’t reflect how someone with a disability or health condition might be able to work from home, yet we know many disabled people do just that,” he said.

“Our plans include taking account of the fact that people with mobility problems or who suffer anxiety within the workplace have better access to employment opportunities from the rise in flexible and home working.”

The proposals include updating assessment categories associated with mobility and social interaction, as well as reflecting flexible and home working.

The consultation is set to run for around eight weeks.

Previously, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced plans to completely scrap work capability assessments in his first spring Budget.

And the DWP said the new proposals would be part of the transition when the assessments are scrapped.

It is understood around 2.5 million Britons are missing from the jobs market because of medical conditions.

The Blackmore Vale Ltd is looking for an experienced Sales Executive to join our team.

About You

• You’ll need to be target driven.

• Have a proven track record of B2B sales.

• Have the ability to work independently sourcing your own leads, through competitive media, online and social media.

• An understanding of both print and digital advertising.

• The personality to build a strong customer base.

• Your own transport is a must with mileage paid. This is a full time role.

• You’ll be joining a friendly, supported team, where you’ll be selling across a range of regional magazine titles.

• We DON’T do hard sell, these are local magazines, supporting local communities, success is key, but we’re also building a reputation we’re proud of.

• We DO recognise and reward success especially team members who exceed their targets. Be nice, but be successful!

• You’ll need to be based within and familiar with the Blackmore Vale area.

• You’re welcome to work from our Wincanton office or work from home within Dorset, Wiltshire or Somerset.

For more information or to apply, please contact; debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

Work and pensions minister Mel Stride

Four-Wheel Laser Alignment

We use the latest specialist equipment to accurately check the front and rear wheels of your vehicle. If the alignment is not set correctly it was cause excessive wear to your tyres, steering and suspension components. To prevent high repair costs, or tyre replacement from misaligned wheels you could poten�ally save yourself money by checking the alignment.

Seat brand will disappear from UK roads - but some models will still be made

A MAINSTAY of our roads is set to be discontinuedalthough some models will still be produced.

At the Munich Motor Show, the Volkswagen Group revealed it will no longer produce Seat vehicles.

However, some models will be rebadged under the Cupra brand over the next few years.

“The future of Seat is Cupra,” said Volkswagen chair, Thomas Schafer, in a speech.

He confirmed the car giant would increase investment in the brand after the current Seat models have been phased out.

Seat models, such as the Ibiza supermini, will be coming to end, the Leon hatchback will be rebranded as a Cupra vehicle.

Schafer said the decision to end Seat’s role in the group was due to the Cupra brand having ‘far greater’ earning potential for the business.

For UK customers, nothing was announced regarding current Seat dealerships in the UK.

Seat was founded in Spain, in 1950, when it was a joint venture between Spain’s nationalized Instituto Nacional de Industria (INI),

which held a majority stake, Spanish private banks, and Italian car giant, Fiat.

After being listed as an independent automaker for 36 years, the Spanish government sold Seat to the Volkswagen Group in 1986, and it remains a fully owned subsidiary of the firm.

Puzzle solutions (from pages 34-35) Edition 25

Arrow words