Salisbury & Avon Gazette - Issue 47

What’s inside this issue…

01963 400186

01963 400186

07850 529937

Salisbury ‘support’ sees more than 6,000 bras heading to Africa!

TREMENDOUS support

from the community has seen an appeal for old bras smash last year’s total.

The Salisbury Soroptimists once again collected garments which could be redistributed to African countries to help those in need.

And the 2024 total of more than 6,000 bras smashed last year’s amount - 3,736.

Project leader, Penny Joyce,

said: “Thank you to everyone who contributed to this amazing total.

“I had bags delivered to my door nearly every day and even some posted to me.”

The main collection point, at Five Rivers Leisure Centre, was emptied almost daily, she said, by volunteers while others collected donations in their homes.

At the final count, all

donations were sorted and counted into piles of 10 and packed into sacks totalling 100 for onward transport.

“We decided to use a courier this year instead of packing into several cars,” Penny said.

“We were glad we had when we saw the number of sacks.”

Barry from BMC Clearance Services then delivered the haul to charity Zabra’s lock-up in Twickenham.

Members of Salisbury Soroptimists sorted through more than 6,000 donated bras after the appeal

“This has got to be one of my more unusual transport jobs,” he said. “I might get a bit of teasing for this one.”

The bras will soon be sent to various African countries, where many women lack the resources to buy clothing.

Women tend to be low down on the priorities for family finance, and a bra can give women dignity and confidence, apart from comfort.

“The generosity of Salisbury and surrounds continues to amaze us’ said soroptimists president, Michele Smith.

“This year’s collection alone has saved nearly 400kg of bras going to landfill or fabric recycling and instead given a new lease of life.

“Thank you to everyone who donated.”

Home’s garden party raises £800

BIG-hearted residents and staff at a Salisbury care home raised more than £800 for the city’s food bank by staging a summer garden party.

Braemar Lodge hosted the familyfriendly event after residents chose Salisbury Foodbank as their main charity to support this year.

The food bank currently supports around 700 people a month in and around Salisbury.

At the party, visitors bought books, CDs, crafts, jewellery, greetings cards, flowers and plants, on sale at a variety of stalls.

The Stratford Road home also organised a raffle and laid on cream teas with glasses of fizz available throughout the afternoon.

As partygoers mingled and shopped, they enjoyed live music courtesy of the Salisbury Pluckers ukelele band and two residents’ groups: the Braemar Singers and the Braemar Handbell Ringers.

Braemar Lodge resident Catherine Brighty manned her own table, selling books, cards and other gifts she had gathered.

“It was a great experience and all for a

good cause,” she said.

Maria Stevenson, manager at Salisbury Foodbank, was among the visitors and later praised the home for staging the event and raising so much in funds.

“It was an amazing day with lots going on and we offer many thanks for such a wonderful contribution,” she added.

“The support from Braemar Lodge will help to ensure we can continue to do our best for local people in the community who are in need.

“We are delighted the home has reached out to us as their charity for this year.”

that others in the community, such as Braemar Lodge, support us and keep our profile up.

“Our work is both amazing and sad.”

Braemar Lodge home manager, Jackie Cash, said: “It was a pleasure and a privilege to host the garden party, enabling our residents to play an active role in supporting the foodbank and have fun with a lovely event right here in their own garden at the same time.”

As well as providing around 6,000 meals to those in need each month, Maria and her team work with community partners such as Citizens’ Advice to help tackle the route causes of food poverty issues so families have a greater chance to avoid going hungry.

Maria said: “People are often shy to come forward for help so it is great

Salisbury Foodbank was launched in 2000 as the first Trussell Trust foodbank in the UK.

A national foodbank network was rolled out four years later, helping churches and communities start their own.

For more information on Salisbury Foodbank, visit www.salisbury.foodbank. org.uk.

Top: The party in full swing, inset above - Joan Hills, left, and Sheila Nell, left - Braemar Lodge resident Catherine Brighty and above - The Braemar Handbell Ringers during their performance. From left: residents Margaret Elliott, Brian Mould, Kay Callow, Ula Rigg, Diana Wilson and Douglas Parish

Life sentence for 25-year-old who stabbed father to death in street

AMAN found guilty of the murder of “good soul” Tsvetomir Genov in Salisbury has been jailed for life - with a minimum term of 30 years.

Maurice Jones, of Gainsborough Close, Bemerton Heath, was convicted of murder and possession of a bladed article by a jury following a two-week trial in June.

On August 22 last year, 25-year-old Jones – who had recently moved to the area to live with Tsvetomir’s former partner – confronted Tsvetomir, known as TG, in Gainsborough Close following issues relating to TG’s son and former partner. TG, who was walking his son in a pushchair back to his son’s mother’s house, was subjected to a violent attack by Jones, sustaining numerous stab wounds, and died at the scene. Jones fled, discarding the knife and his trousers. Thanks to key witnesses and intelligence from members of the public, he was swiftly arrested and taken to custody. After being charged with murder and possession of a bladed article, he pleaded not guilty to both.

During the trial, Jones claimed to have only taken a knife for his own protection and used it out of fear.

This was dismissed by the jury.

Speaking after Jones was jailed for life, senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, said: “While today’s sentencing is the conclusion of the courts process, the indescribable grief and sense of loss for TG’s family will go on.

“I would once again like to pay tribute to them for the dignified way they have behaved at court while having to hear the awful details of how TG, who was a son, father, brother and friend, lost his life.

“I would also like to thank the local community for the support they gave to the investigation team following the incident. Key evidence from witnesses was vital in securing the conviction and I would like to thank them for their bravery after witnessing such a horrific attack. I would also like to thank all the officers who responded to the incident, and who have assisted with the investigation since, for their dedication and professionalism which has ultimately led to this sentence.”

DCI Walker said: “Knife crime kills and ruins lives, which is why it continues to be an ongoing priority for the force.

“If Jones hadn’t purposely taken a knife with him to meet TG, then TG would still be with us. It’s that simple.

Maurice Jones, 25, has been jailed for life for murder, and will serve a minimum term of 30 years

“There can never be a good excuse to carry a knife. We know that you are far more likely to be the victim of a knife attack if you are carrying one, with it often being your own knife used against you.

“As seen from this case, the consequences of doing so, both for yourself and any potential victims, can be lifelong.”

The victim’s family issued a tribute following the sentencing.

They said: “It is nearly one year since our first-born awesome boy was taken from us. It is nearly a year since his life was taken too soon.

“He was left with no chance to be saved and died tragically after this awful knife attack.

“His murderer has been found guilty and sentenced, but nothing can change the fact that TG is no longer here. He lives in our hearts and memories, but he is not here.

“Life is not the same without him. We thought the day we were told of his death was the hardest day of our lives, but it was even harder to see him lying in the coffin, to go to his funeral.

“There are no words to describe the feeling of seeing your child like this. To bury

your child is not right. It is horrible and painful and it should not happen. Nothing is the same without him.

“TG had just started his life. He was just 20 years old. He was adventurous, independent, charming and had a good soul.

“He had dreams and plans which will now never come true. It is hard to accept that we, his family, will never see him again. His little boy, just 16 months old, will never see his daddy again, never hear his daddy’s voice. He will never play with his daddy, get advice from his dad or grow up with his dad.

“We fear he might not remember him as he was so young when he was taken from him. None of us will see his smile again or hear his laughter again. A big part of our hearts has been taken and will never be replaced.

“It is just heart-breaking. It is not fair and it is not right. We all loved him so much and we really hope that he knows that, and knows that we will all look after his little boy.

“We are so proud of him. We miss and love him so much and the huge holes in our hearts will never be filled.”

TG, right, with his father Deyan Genov and brothers

Plans for new village shop in Pitton revealed

PLANS

for a new shop in Pitton have been submitted - as the current village store is set to close in 2026.

Barclay & Phillips Architects have submitted an application to Wiltshire Council, on behalf of PCS Ltd, to extend the current village hall building in order to accommodate a shop and post office facility.

The current buildings would also get a makeover as part of the plan.

“The community is at risk because Pitton’s village shop is due to close in early 2026 when the owner retires,” it said.

“The existing facility provides a valuable service to the community in terms of shop, post office and banking, prescription collection, newspaper delivery, local information and social interaction.

“Its loss will have a negative impact on residents, many of whom are elderly and rely on the shop for a variety of goods and services.”

If approved, the scheme would provide “volunteer and training opportunities”, as well as a “community hub which provides information to residents and visitors”, the application went on.

“The extension seeks to create a village shop with a separate entrance to the village hall, accommodating spaces such as a staff room and accessible toilet, and outdoor seating,” it added.

“The internal spaces of the existing village hall are proposed to remain as existing, however, it is proposed to clad the existing façade of the village hall with areas

of timber cladding.

“A proposed glazed walkway to the existing entrance of the village hall is also proposed.”

The scheme will now be considered by Wiltshire Council. For more details, and to comment on the application, log on to wiltshire.gov.uk and search for reference PL/2024/06217.

How the new store could look at Pitton Village Hall, below

New £14m hospital building opens

PATIENTS are being admitted to a new ward in a £14 million building at Salisbury District Hospital.

The Elizabeth Building, named after the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, is home to the Imber Ward, which has welcomed its first patients.

This building provides 24 new beds in a state-of-the-art ward, incorporating a mixture of four-bed bays and side rooms.

Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust said the extra beds mean elderly care patients can be looked after in a dedicated space, allowing surgical beds to be better utilised to deliver elective care, such as day surgery.

The Elizabeth Building is designed to be environmentally sustainable, with solar panels, low-carbon concrete, and heat pumps, so there is no fossil fuel

used. There is also thermal insultation.

Lisa Thomas, interim CEO of the Trust, said: “We are very pleased to have built and opened our new ward, which provides elderly care in a state-of-the-art modern environment.

“Importantly, the new ward supports the Trust’s elective recovery programme, and marks a major milestone in our efforts to deliver the very best compassionate, effective care to our community, while improving our sustainability.”

Hospital charity, the Stars Appeal, has helped equip and furnish the new ward, providing £600,000 for equipment, including the latest patient monitoring system, furnishings and artwork to create a state-ofthe-art, dementia-friendly space with an enhanced environment benefiting patients, their

Fundraisers got a sneak preview of the new building, above, and right, Stars Appeal patron Tiff Needell, nurse consultant James Lee and Stars Appeal patient ambassador Richard Joy at the new ward

families and staff.

Supporters of the charity were recently invited to a special private view of the ward prior to it opening to patients.

President of the Stars Appeal, the Earl of Pembroke, said: “Imber Ward is another fantastic example of the difference that the Stars Appeal makes at

Salisbury District Hospital, which is only possible thanks to donations, fundraising and, especially with this project, those who so kindly remember the charity in their Wills.

“I thank everyone who supports the Stars Appeal for their generosity in making projects like this possible.”

SEPTEMBER GETAWAYS BY COACH

12th SEPTEMBER

New chief Lucy set to start at Wiltshire Council

LUCY Townsend - a current chief at Wiltshire Council - has been appointed to the £184,000 role of chief executive at the authority.

Currently corporate director – people, she was chosen after a recruitment process which included technical interviews, psychometric assessments, a full-day assessment with a variety of stakeholder panels and final panel interviews.

Subject to formal approval, Lucy will take over as chief executive following the departure of Terence Herbert in August, who leaves the council after 13 years having been successfully appointed as chief executive at Surrey County Council.

The salary range for the chief executive position is between £184,168 and £196,598.

Lucy said: “I am incredibly proud to be appointed as Chief Executive of Wiltshire Council. I am committed and passionate about local government and the vital role it plays and in helping to strengthen and empower our communities.

“I can’t wait to get started, and will lead from the front

taking a collaborative approach to help achieve the council’s vision, working side by side with our staff, residents, businesses and communities in a thriving and ambitious county.”

Lucy brings more than 25 years’ local government experience to the role, beginning in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, Swindon Borough Council and North Somerset Council.

She started with Wiltshire Council in 2014 as head of safeguarding and assessment. Between September 2017 and March 2020, she was director of families and children’s services, before being appointed to corporate director–people in July 2020.

She also holds the statutory role of director of children’s services.

Lucy holds an MSc Social Work and Social Work Policy, BSc Psychology, has successfully led Children’s Services to achieve an Outstanding Ofsted rating and chairs Integrated Care Partnership, Southwest

Association of Directors of Children’s Services and Deputy Chair of the Community Safety Partnership.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of the council, said: “Lucy was an outstanding candidate and I’m delighted she has accepted the role of chief executive, following a very robust and competitive process.

“Lucy has a wealth of experience over many years, not only at Wiltshire Council, but across the local government

sector and we are confident she will ensure Wiltshire remains one of the most efficient and effective councils in the country.

“Lucy’s qualities, experience and commitment were demonstrated in the council’s children’s services achieving an Outstanding grade by Ofsted last year.

“We look forward to working with her to achieve our collective aims as a council at a crucial and challenging time for local government.”

Pre-school celebrates ‘outstanding’ rating from inspectors

TISBURY Pre-School is celebrating after an ‘outstanding’ achievement during a recent inspection.

Ofsted has given the facility, based at the Nadder Centre, the top rating after a report found children were shown the “upmost care and respect at all times”.

The inspector said staff provide a “range of high-quality learning experiences”, and children are shown to be emotionally safe and

secure as well as showing “incredible levels” of enthusiasm for learning.

The inspector said manager Amanda Burford was “incredibly ambitious and reflective”.

Amanda, who was “overwhelmed” with the result said: “It couldn’t have gone any better.”

The pre-school is open for children from the age of two years.

Lucy Townsend, above, will take over from Terence Herbert, inset right, when he stands down in August

Shock over head’s sudden departure from city school

PARENTS

have reacted with shock to news a Salisbury headteacher has left her role.

A letter to parents, sent home with pupils at Sarum Academy and dated July 23 - which has been seen by your Salisbury & Avon Gazette - said Jennifer Moore had left the school the day before.

“We understand this news will come as a shock to you and the wider community served by Sarum Academy,” it said.

“Please be assured that Magna Learning Partnership (which runs the school) is committed to supporting the academy during this time.”

It said director of education, Jonathan Curtis, would be supporting Richard Clarke, who will take on the role of acting academy leader at the Westwood Road school.

Jen Moore, inset, has left Sarum Academy

“We are deeply grateful to Richard for taking on this leadership role, and we will ensure he receives

comprehensive support,” the letter, signed by Magna CEO Ian Tucker, added.

“On behalf of everyone at Magna Learning Partnership, I

would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jen for her invaluable contributions to the Sarum community.

“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

Sarm Academy was rated as Good in its most recent SIAMS inspection, in 2019.

Quick news

Arrest after ice cream van clash

A ROW between ice cream sellers allegedly boiled over in Larkhill, police said, with one person being arrested.

An incident, in Alanbrooke Road, saw the wing mirror of one ice cream van damaged.

After the “disorder”, at around 2.30pm on Wednesday (July 17), a man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

Officers investigating the incident have appealed for anyone who saw anything to get in touch on 101, quoting reference 170 of July 17.

Advertising Feature

CHAPTERS: A LIFESTYLE OF LUXURY AND EASE

Just a short stroll from the city centre, the contemporary Chapters retirement village in Salisbury perfectly complements its historic backdrop.

Splendour, convenience, and community converge at Chapters to create the ideal retirement lifestyle. These beautiful one and two-bedroom apartments have been carefully designed to suit - whether you prefer the contemporary vibe of Nightingale Square with its spacious and bright interiors, or the historic grandeur of Grade II-listed 19th-century Finch House with its high ceilings and period features. All are within a short stroll from the city centre.

This vibrant, over-55 community offers an array of facilities, including an exclusive lounge, library and TV room, cinema and activity room, bistro, and guest suite. There is also an on-site Community Manager for help and support.

Every detail, from spacious interiors to private balconies and terraces, has been meticulously curated to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Plus, with energy-efficient features and hassle-free maintenance, you can relax and embrace your newfound freedom without worry.

“We have a super community at Chapters.” GWEN – CHAPTERS

A HOME WHERE YOU CAN THRIVE

Chapters isn’t just about luxurious living spaces; it’s about fostering a vibrant community of like-minded individuals.

Join your neighbours in the homeowners’ lounge or courtyard gardens for social gatherings and activities or enjoy the peace and serenity of your own space.

Whether you’re seeking a lively social scene or a quiet retreat, Chapters offers the perfect balance of sociability and privacy.

At Platinum Skies, we’re committed to providing exceptional retirement living. Come and experience this for yourself at our Chapters Discovery Day on 8th August.

“In this community, it’s very easy to make friends.”

ELIZABETH – CHAPTERS

“I am so happy here. I’ve never looked back.” MICK – CHAPTERS

Let us introduce you to a world of possibilities at Chapters, Salisbury.

Where luxury, convenience, and community converge to create your ideal retirement lifestyle.

Join us at our Discovery Day

On Thursday, August 8th, 2pm to 4pm

At Nightingale Square, Fountain Way, Salisbury SP2 7FU

ELEGANT, STYLISH, SAFE AND SECURE

Chapters offers extra-spacious, luxurious and light-filled 1 and 2-bedroom apartments situated in contemporary Nightingale Square or the period features and historic grandeur of Finch House.

A VIBRANT OVER 55s COMMUNITY:

Exclusive bistro and bar.

Lounge and activity suite.

On-site Community Manager.

Landscaped gardens and allocated parking. From just £157,500*

Jobs created as Wessex Internet opens new Wiltshire base

Wessex Internet is opening a new base in Codford, between Warminster and Salisbury, as the company expands its ultrafast broadband network to reach more people in South Wiltshire.

The civil engineering yard will employ at least 15 people, including ploughing and drilling teams who will build the fibre cable network, engineers who are qualified to work with overhead and underground cables, surveyors, and planners. It is positioned conveniently close to the main junction of the A303 and A36, making the location accessible to workers from across the region. The new yard joins existing bases near to Yeovil in Somerset and Ringwood in Hampshire, and the company’s headquarters near Blandford Forum in Dorset. The new staff are needed to help the company deliver a new contract, awarded by the government this year, which will see 14,500 additional homes and businesses in South Wiltshire connected to ultrafast internet.

E d Carter, Wiltshire Project Manager for Wessex Internet, said:

“Since being awarded this contract in March, our teams have been working hard to plan the best way to bring ultrafast broadband to rural and presently underserved communities across South Wiltshire. This is a five-year project, so the roll-out will reach areas at different stages.

“However, we’ve now reached the exciting stage of being ready to start the network build in September, meaning we’re looking for colleagues to join our team at a new base in Codford. We are looking for people with a background in utilities, construction, telecoms, agriculture, or the military. Our innovative approach to building in the countryside requires people who know how to develop understanding with local communities and landowners, and who show respect and care for the landscape in which they work.

“In return, we offer excellent pay and benefits for the right candidates, which over recent months has attracted many people to join Wessex Internet from utility companies and careers in agriculture. Unlike many jobs in the sector, we provide generous paid holiday, sick leave and family leave, private medical insurance and life assurance, and perks including tax-free schemes to buy tech gadgets and bicycles.”

The new team will help expand Wessex Internet’s existing network in the Wylye Valley, building across the Salisbury Plain, connecting villages surrounding Amesbury to the east, and reaching as far north as Chisbury and Little Bedwyn. The company has already rolled out its infrastructure to more than 3,000 properties in Wiltshire in areas such as East Knoyle and West Knoyle, Donhead St Andrew, Fisherton De La Mere and Corton.

All properties will benefit from full fibre connections, also known as Fibre to the Premise (FTTP), which means a fibre optic cable goes all the way to a home or business, rather than stopping at a cabinet down the road. This delivers far superior speeds and reliability compared to copper or partial fibre networks.

Pictured above: Wessex Internet mole plough and drilling teams at work across the South West.

£32,000 project creates accessible footpath to Bemerton Heath spaces

ANEW

£32,000 path in Bemerton Heath is making access to a play area and green space easier for those with limited mobility.

The improved walkway has opened at Pinewood Way, making it eaiser for those who use mobility aids.

The Tarmac path, which will also benefit parents and carers using pushchairs, was installed by Salisbury City Council as its first project as part of plans to make the city’s parks and open spaces more accessible to users.

The Disability Interest Group of Salisbury (DIGS) asked the council to complete a disability audit across the city in 2022 to identify barriers to accessibility and recommend improvements.

The group has welcomed the new path, saying that it is “fantastic” to see the council make these accessibility changes.

Kez Adey, CEO of DIGS, said: “After our MP told us it was not a government issue, we lost hope a little, so it is fantastic

that the council is taking the first steps in an important project.

“I would like to thank Paul Sinclair, Mandy Blake, Harris, Julia, Chris and Justin for all the ideas and also Salisbury City Council for listening to our passionate pleas, and we look forward to working with them in the near future with a wheelchair accessible swing.”

Following a series of meetings with DIGS last year, the council agreed to allocate funding in the 2024/25 budget to begin making Salisbury’s parks and open spaces more accessible.

This was agreed in January and the budget was made available in April.

Councillor Annie Riddle (Ind, Harnham

Harris Dickenson, front left, former DIGS member, and Kez Adey, front right, CEO of DIGS, with, back, Cllr Annie Riddle, Cllr Caroline Corbin and Cllr Tom Corbin

Picture: Salisbury City Council

West) said while a “great deal” needs to be done to make the city more disability-friendly, the council leadership team is “keen to help when funds permit”.

She said: “This new path is an important step along the way to better access for all, and we’re delighted to have been able to help.”

Cllr Caroline Corbin (Labour, Bemerton Heath) said: “The installation of the path will enable more families to use the park safely, grateful thanks to Kez and the DIGS team for helping to raise disability awareness within our communities.

“Disabled access requirements are very easily overlooked when often a small improvement can have a big impact on a wide range of needs.

“Such as the path, which will be useful to wheelchair users, parents/carers/grandparents with pushchairs, or even a toddler on their first bike ride to the park.”

Cllr John Wells (Labour, St Francis and Stratford) added:

“With so many pressures on local council budgets, the opening of this path is an acknowledgement of the importance of disabled access for all our residents.

“DIGS is an important group within our community which continues to raise and maintain public awareness of the need for accessibility and inclusivity.”

For more, see visitdisabilityinterestgroup.com.

This Summer @ This Summer @

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

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

Peter Pan

A Magical Open-Air Musical

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

Suitable for ages 4+

Sunday 11 August, 17.30

Gilbert & Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore

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

Weds 28 August, 19:30

Art Talk: Japanese Woodblock Prints

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

Thurs 19 September, 14:30

Shopping event promises talks and more - and will support charities

ANevent in Tidworth is promising visitors an “engaging and charitable experience”.

The Eat Nourish Love (ENL) Autumn Fair 2024 is set to take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 24 and 25, at Tedworth Park.

Across the two days, organisers promise the “latest in fashion, wellness and beauty products, personalized stationery, and stunning art”, with food and home and garden products also on offer across more than 120 stalls.

The fair is supporting Walking with the Wounded and Horatio’s Garden.

Shopping is open from 2pm to 6pm on Tuesday, September 24, and from 9.30am to 4pm the following day.

On Tuesday evening, an Evening Reception will take place from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

Tickets for the Evening Reception cost £25 per person, including supper and a glass of Champagne/wine, or £10 per person for a glass of Champagne and shopping.

General admission is £6 on both days, with a discount to £4.50 after 2.30pm on September 25.

Tickets for talks include free entry to the fair on both days, while supper tickets include free entry on Wednesday, September 25.

“Held on the Polo Grounds adjacent to Tedworth House in Tidworth, this two-day event promises outstanding shopping experiences,” a spokesperson said.

“Enjoy exquisite gifts for all ages, health and well-being products, and a wonderful day out with family and friends.

“Join us for inspirational talks by exceptional speakers, followed by shopping with delicious food, cocktails or mocktails at our exclusive bar, or a curry supper evening.”

David Hedges has been jailed for 28 years

Picture: Wiltshire Police

Speakers lined up for talkswhich cost £20 and include entry to the fair - include Liz Earle, founder of Liz Earle Wellbeing, in conversation with journalist Chloe Fox; Lucinda Miller, founder and clinical lead at NatureDoc; General Sir Nick Carter GCB CBE DSO, on A New World Disorder, War in Europe and the Middle East and What This Could Mean for the Future’ and more.

independent small brands,” the spokesperson added.

“This event is designed to be a destination that emphasizes the importance of community, shared experiences, and lasting friendships. It is particularly vital for military life, improving morale and operational readiness.”

“The theme for this year’s fair focuses on community, inspirational talks, wellness, and fantastic shopping from fabulous

For full details, and listings of all talks planned at the show, log on to www. eatnourishlove.com.

Amesbury dentist set for move to larger premises

AN Amesbury dentist is set to relocate and expand in a bid to welcome more patients.

Atlas Planning Group Ltd, on behalf of Mr Parson, has submitted plans to Wiltshire Council to make alterations at 26 Salisbury Street to enable the relocation of Amesbury Dental Care.

The practice is currently located at Stonehenge Walk, but the application says the lease will soon expire.

“With an increased number of NHS patients,

the applicant intends in practicing at the larger premises of 26 Salisbury Street, where it can be better equipped to serve members of the local community,” it said.

The plans outline details of extra windows which would be put in place at the property, where “historic openings exist”.

For more details on the plans, and to comment, log on to wiltshire.gov.uk and search for application reference PL/2024/06521.

Amesbury Dental Care could be on the move to new premises

Quality care in Salisbury you can trust

When a family is thinking about care for a loved one, they want the best - they want to know that the care home they choose will put their loved one’s safety, happiness and wellbeing first.

Salisbury Manor is managed by award-winning provider

Care UK - one of the UK’s most highly successful care home operators* with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to older people.

Living at Salisbury Manor is all about quality of life. Every colleague in the home is passionate about enabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and preferences. The lifestyle team will organise a huge variety of group and one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day.

With the extra support that our care home offers, new residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even discovering new hobbies with our daily activities.

The purpose-built home is designed for enjoying a luxury lifestyle, with en-suite rooms and facilities including a cinema, café, hair and beauty salon, and comfortable lounges and dining rooms. The home also boasts lovely gardens with wheelchair friendly pathways – the perfect place to spend some time when the weather allows.

Whether your loved one enjoys a quiet cup of tea in bed before starting the day, loves going for strolls in the landscaped grounds, or enjoys a chat over a glass of wine, the team at Salisbury Manor will spend time to enable them to continue living life the way they want to.

Salisbury Manor care home

Salisbury Manor Shapland Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7EJ 01722 638 965 careuk.com/ salisbury-manor *As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland.

Charismatic Dexter could be crowned cat of the year

ACHARISMATIC

cat from Alderbury near Salisbury could be crowned the UK’s cat of the year thanks to his decade of ‘work’ in the village shop. 11-year-old moggy Dexter has become the village mascot following an incident where he was attacked by another cat which saw the community rally to help him by raising money to pay for vet bills.

Dexter has now been named as a finalist in Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards 2024, beating hundreds of other entries to take his place

alongside two other contenders in the Connected Cats category, celebrating cats who are at the centre of their communities.

Dexter, who roams the village freely, is cared for by the community and lives at the Premier Alderbury Village Stores where he ‘helps out’ by greeting customers.

Kerry Carpenter, 46, a housekeeper who lives in Alderbury, said: “Dexter is such a lovely, funny boy, strutting around the village shop, bushy tail in the air, waiting for someone to fuss him.

“He’s been turning up for work when the shops opens for as long as anyone can remember – he’s always on time.

“We think he had a home originally but when Debbie from the shop realised he was sleeping outside at night she built a wooden house for him – with a name plaque – and fed and watered him.

“Dexter was attacked by another cat last winter, the deep wounds around his neck becoming infected, so the village raised £800 for vets’ bills.

“Then Dawn and Andy, who live near the shop, offered to take him in so he had a warm house in which to recuperate.

“Now he has the best of both worlds – a home and his job in the shop.

“The only drawback of being the village cat is that everybody knows he’s on a diet. Sorry Dexter – no treats until you’ve lost a pound and a half.”

Dexter will now go through to a public vote to find winners in four categories –Connected Cats, Family Cats, Incredible Cats and Senior Cats.

Cat lovers can vote for their favourite finalist by visiting www.cats.org.uk/nca during the voting period from today, July 17 to August 30.

Category winners and the overall National Cat of the Year – chosen by a panel of judges – will then be announced during a ceremony hosted by Dawn O’Porter at London’s One Marylebone on September 18.

Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards, organised by the UK’s largest cat charity, is an annual celebration of real-life stories of heroism, loyalty and companionship, showing that life is better with cats.

Marketing and income generation director, Catherine Cottrell, said: “Dexter sounds such a character, bringing together young, old and everyone in between.

“Well done Debbie for caring for your star employee at the shop and Dawn and Andy for giving him a cosy home. Good luck with the diet, Dexter.”

Category winners will each win a prize package of a trophy, a £200 pet store voucher and a subscription to Cats Protection’s The Cat magazine with the National Cat of the Year also receiving a trophy.

Pictures by Simon Ward, Spencer Mulholland and Donald Capewell

Tree wardens get tips from Stourhead experts

WILTSHIRE

tree wardens got an insight into how some of the country’s most important trees are cared during a visit to Stourhead.

The group visited the National Trust estate for a guided tour of the grounds from the estate management team to learn more about how they look after the trees.

Tree Wardens care for trees in their communities, protecting and enhancing the tree population, in partnership with Wiltshire Council and town and parish councils.

Lessons and techniques learned on the visit to Stourhead will be taken back to local communities to improve how trees are cared for.

Wiltshire Council relaunched the Tree Warden scheme in September last year and has already recruited 56 volunteer wardens across the county. They receive training from the Tree Council’s national tree warden scheme, who also support with securing funding for the planting of new trees.

The council is looking for more volunteers to take on this important role.

Cllr Dominic Muns, cabinet member for environment, said: “Tree Wardens do a vital job in our communities, looking after existing trees and planting new ones which supports biodiversity, habitats, and helps us to reach our net-zero ambitions.

“The scheme supports our business plan key priorities of ensuring our communities continue to be beautiful and exciting places to live and leading the way in how councils and counties mitigate the climate challenges ahead.

“We’re looking for more Tree Wardens who can work with our Woodland GAPS Team and local town and parish councils.”

Phil Niemand, general manager at Stourhead, said: “This event underscores the importance of community engagement in preserving our natural heritage. By partnering with Wiltshire Council, we aim to celebrate the invaluable contributions of volunteer Tree Wardens and provide them with an enriching experience in our Grade 1 listed Historic Park and Garden.”

Anyone passionate about the environment who would like to help can visit www.wiltshire. gov.uk/trees-and-woodland-inwiltshire, or email GAPS@ wiltshire.gov.uk, for more information. Training will be provided and no prior experience is required.

Safeguard Your Hard-Earned Assets from 40% Inheritance

Tax,

Looming Care Fees, & Potential Family Disputes.

Inheritance Tax Planning: Are you concerned about losing 40% of your already taxed hard earned wealth to the government? Our bespoke legal strategies, meticulously crafted using trusts and wills, ensure your assets stay where they belong – in your family’s hands. Fully compliant with UK law, we shield your estate from the grasp of inheritance taxes, giving you peace of mind and financial security.

Care Fees Protection: With average care fees hitting £2,000 per week and typical stays ranging from 3 to 7 years, these expenses can quickly deplete most estates. Our custom-tailored solutions offer a lifeline. While many believe protection is impossible, we’ve developed a tailored legal strategy fully compliant with UK law to safeguard your assets, including protection against care fees.

Wills: Don’t leave your loved ones squabbling over vague wills! Oakwood Wills specializes in drafting crystal-clear documents that leave no room for ambiguity. No more family feuds. Just smooth, conflictfree asset distribution that honours your final wishes. Lasting Power Of Attorneys: Statistics don’t lie – the chances of incapacity rise with age. With our Lasting Power of Attorneys services, you can appoint trusted individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf. No more court approvals, no more uncertainty in times of crises – just peace of mind knowing your interests are in safe hands.

For a complimentary consultation, reach out to Oakwood Wills.

Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

Retirement homes plan for vacant Salisbury site

The plans could see 47 new retirement apartments built over shops in Fisherton Street Pictures: Planning Issues/Wiltshire Council/Google

ADEVELOPMENT

of 47 retirement flats and three shops could be built on a vacant site in Salisbury.

Planning Issues, on behalf of Churchill Living, has submitted an application to Wiltshire Council for 30-36 Fisherton Street.

The scheme would see a “comprehensive redevelopment” of the site, with the housing development made up of 47 one- and two-bedroom flats, communal facilities, vehicular access and car parking.

It would also include three retail units at ground floor level.

“Vision Churchill Living’s vision for the site is to deliver a development that meets our customers’ needs and the local need for retirement apartments while also contributing to the character of Street and making a positive contribution locally in terms of socio, economic and environmental benefits,” the application said.

“Our aim is to create a high quality development that embraces sustainable design, enhances the setting of the area and maintains the local vernacular.”

The site has been vacant for around four years, having

previously housed a BHF store and a factory shop outlet, as well as smaller independent stores.

A previous application, in 2019, detailed plans for an 87-bedroom hotel on the site, as well as a library and a gym.

Though the plans were approved, and the old building demolished, it has not been

built.

A separate application, for a 96-room hotel, café and shops, was submitted to the council in 2022, with no decision yet made.

For more details on the retirement development plans, and to comment, log on to Wiltshire.gov.uk and search for reference PL/2024/06047.

Volunteer shortlisted for BBC Wiltshire carer award

A SALISBURY carer is a finalist for a BBC Radio Wiltshire award for improving the lives of those she cares for.

Gale Louw, carer and activities coordinator at Milford House Care Home in Salisbury, has been recognised for the help, compassion and support she shows her residents and is through to the grand final of BBC Radio Wiltshire ‘Make a Difference’ Awards in the Carer category.

The station received hundreds of nominations across eight categories from which a panel of independent judges selected the four finalists for each category.

Gale received a visit from Graham

Rogers of BBC Radio Wiltshire, pictured, ahead of the awards.

General manager at the care home, Aga Musial, said: “This is such a great achievement and very well deserved and we are so delighted that what Gale does has been recognised by the wider community, and of course we will all be rooting for Gale on the night.”

what Graham was telling me about the nomination when he rang to tell me the news!

“I am so grateful to everyone who nominated me and I am now looking forward to the ceremony in September.”

Gale said: “This was such a huge surprise and it took me a while to process

The awards ceremony will be held on September 7 and a spokesperson for Milford House says they will all be cheering Gale on and a small team from the home will be supporting her on the night.

Coffee morning boosts u3a cofferswith more fun events planned

SPIRE

u3a is not closing down for the summer but carrying on, especially with the fun stuff.

A Coffee Morning in July could not have gone better, with Terry Waldron kept busy all morning answering questions about his display of photographs and the activities of the Photography Group.

Chair, Maureen Frost, said: “What a great morning that was. I think we can honestly say our Coffee Morning in St Thomas’s Church was well worth the effort.

“We achieved our aimsraised the profile of our u3a, improved our balance sheet and had a fun time.

“So to those of you who

came and supported the event, baked cakes, served customers, made drinks, shifted furniture, checked the toilet, washed up, cleared up and talked to those around you about u3a - thank you!”

Spire’s next big social event will be a two-course lunch at St George’s Hall, Harnham, to mark u3a Week 2024 on Saturday, September 21.

Meanwhile, the regular Interest Groups (IG’s) will be meeting as usual for walks, book clubs, meals out and more.

In the autumn, the group plans to revive a study of modern languages, French and Spanish.

The Groups Co-ordinator is collecting names of interested people.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Get in touch via hilaryglyde@hotmail.com.

Anyone interested in joining the lunch, or one of the IGs, who is not already a member of Spire u3a can contact the membership secretary via stuart.robson6@btinternet. com, or on 01722 334310. The u3a is open to anyone approaching retirement or no longer in full-time work.

Alternatively, prospective members from Salisbury and the villages are invited to the August Meeting at Harnham Memorial Hall on Monday, August 12.

The guest speaker, Alastair Greener, will be talking about the Burma Road - the main crew passageway running the length of the ship (not what you think). Doors open for refreshments at 10am.

Police holiday patrols

POLICE were on petrol in Harnham after reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.

Officers were out and about on July 19, and warned there could be an increase in poor behaviour as the summer holidays get underway.

“With the Summer holidays approaching, there is likely to be an increase in footfall and people enjoying the fine weather, however this can also mean an increase in anti-social behaviour,” a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said.

PC Phillips, PC Young and PC Grant assisted the Neighbourhood Policing Team with patrols at Middle Street Meadows, Harnham Cricket Pitch and Town Path, as well as speaking to the staff at the Old Mill Pub.

The officers said: “It was great to see people out and about enjoying the sunshine and children playing in the stream outside the pub.

“Please ensure you know where your children are and speak to them about water safety as well as their behaviour while out in public.

“There have been reports of verbal abuse to staff at the pub from some of our younger community and this will not be tolerated.

“Equally, please drink responsibly and stay hydrated, especially as the hotter weather approaches.”

Rotary welcomes president

THERotary Club of Salisbury has a new president for 2024/25.

Peter Mitchell has taken on the role, succeeding Michael Bell, after a handover ceremony at the White Hart Hotel.

Mayor of Salisbury, Cllr Sven Hocking, was present alongside Mayoress Marcia Hocking and Rotarians and guests.

Peter, who joined Salisbury Rotary Club in 2019, is a retired solicitor, lives in the city and is an active member of Salisbury’s Studio Theatre.

“Rotary is about making new friends, engaging socially and working on a variety of community related projects and

activities,” he said.

“Our members have a common purpose - to make a difference to people’s lives and have some fun at the same time.

“I very much believe that ‘the more you put into something, the more you get out of it’.”

Police on patrol in the Harnham area

Picture: Wiltshire Police

New Rotary Club president Peter Mitchell, left, has taken over from Michael Bell, right

‘Sir Keir - earn more in Wiltshire!’

IDON’T

normally feel the need to write to newspapers to vent my anger, but having read your story about the new Wiltshire Council boss online, I had to break that habit!

I’m sure being the boss of the council is a big job and very difficult, but is it really worth a salary higher than that of the Prime Minister, which is around £160,000?

Think about it - should Sir Keir Starmer resign from leading the country to lead Wiltshire - and get a pay rise? That seems crazy to me.

When all of us minions are struggling to pay our bills and deal with problems which can often be traced back to something Wiltshire Council has done or not done, getting paid this much feels like a slap in the face. It might feel like that to Sir Keir too! But knowing our council, he probably wouldn’t get the job. There needs to be some sort of limit on the salaries for these kinds of jobs.

Attracting good people is one thing, but this is outrageous.

NAME & ADDRESS

SUPPLIED

Making progress on child poverty

IRECENTLY

attended a roundtable meeting on child poverty with the Secretary of State.

All of us in attendance agreed that an ambitious plan for the 4.3 million children living in poverty is urgently needed.

And we welcome the announcement of a Ministerial taskforce to tackle child poverty.

However, we know that scrapping the two-child limit will instantly lift 300,000 out of poverty.

This policy must be scrapped immediately, we don’t need to wait for a strategy to understand that this is the right first step to reduce child poverty.

JOSEPH HOWES Chair of the End Child Poverty Coalition and CEO of Buttle UK

A working theory

Fact of the Fortnight

THE starting gun has been fired on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris - and we’re all suddenly becoming experts on sports we haven’t watched for at least four years.

But if you’re struggling for in-depth, insightful knowledge of curling, BMX racing, or the 100m backstroke, we thought we’d give you one piece of knowledge that impress any sports afficionado.

One of the most recognisable symbols in the worldthe Olympic rings - are familiar to most people.

But why are they the colours they are?

Well, it all goes back to 1913, when the Games’ modern founder, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, designed a symbol to represent the unity of the event.

for Sunday hours

INresponse to J Hedges’ letter in your recent publication (‘Opening hours’, Letters, July 15), I felt I should put the opposite point of view.

While it may seem obvious that shops like Waitrose should be able to open whenever they like on a Sunday, I would point out just one thing - staff.

I would braodly agree that it is not for the government to dictate when people can open their shops and try to scrape a living, but when it comes to chains like Waitrose, we should remember they employ lots and lots of people and will demand they work those hours - often unsociable and yes, on a Sunday.

With so many shops open all the time now, we have to remember there are people who have to work those hours, including on days liek Christmas Day, Easter Sunday and more.

It could be that they are expected to do that, effectively meaning no day is sacred for those who work in the retail sector.

Let’s be honest, since the pandemic, people seem to have forgotten just how important these people are.

S STEPHENS Salisbury

A plan to help Salisbury shops

SALISBURY has some lovely shops but so many are struggling in this day and age. The internet seems to have destroyed high streets and city centres, and I hope Salisbury can beat the trend and keep hold of all the wonderful shops we have.

One thing to help would be making it easier to walk around. There are lots of pedestrian areas, but also a lot of very busy little roads that I don’t like to use in fear of being hit by a passing car probably going too fast.

Keeping car parks outside the centre and making it easier and safer for people like me to get around would help trade, I’m sure.

MRS DAVIS Salisbury

The rings are all linked, in a bid to show the unity of the Olympics, but there are five due to the colours.

Pierre worked out that at least one of the five colours - blue, black, red, yellow and green (as well as a tinge of white separating

them) - feature in every single flag of the participating nations. So everyone is represented in one way or another. There you go - now you can impress your friends and get a gold medal for Olympic facts!

Take the train - and a trip back in time to Salisbury of yesteryear...

PEOPLE

of a certain age, while standing on a station platform waiting for a train, may well cast their minds back to a different time.

Now, thanks to the new Great Western Approaches Revisited initiative, those in the West Country can literally do exactly that, using the latest technology to step back into the history of

the railway and the communities it serves.

QR codes - which can be scanned using a smartphonehave been posted on station platforms across Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset which will take people to a revisited series of films telling the story of rail journeys of yesteryear.

The codes can be used to

view an archive film project by the Windrose Rural Media Trust.

Revamped films have been created - inspired by an old film called Great Western Approaches, made in 1936 and still available, which took viewers on a journey to the sun.

Windrose director, Trevor Bailey, said: “Long ago, the Great Western Railway saw the potential of film to promote its trains and the places they served.

“It has an extraordinary heritage and the modern GWR is proud to link past glories with today’s progress.”

Windrose has used footage from 1909 to the 1990s to craft short films relevant to 24 stations across seven routes.

They are:

• Westbury to Salisbury

• Westbury to Weymouth

• Westbury to Bath

• Westbury to Swindon

• Westbury to Bedwyn

• Westbury to Taunton

• Taunton to Bristol

Each film explores life as it used to be, allowing customers to travel into the past.

Windrose Rural Media Trust is a Dorset-based charity which uses the media – television, radio and the internet – to portray the past of rural communities in the south west and to give them a voice in the present day.

Mr Bailey said: “We have a massive film archive of life in Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire, which has largely been digitised, and we’ve drawn on this to provide providing a companion for people on their train journeys – a window into the past of the places served by stations on seven GWR routes.

“By scanning a QR code, viewers can select the route and station of their choice and find

themselves in the past life of that community. It may be a livestock market in the 1930s, daily street scenes in the 1910s, a long-closed railway line, seaside holidays in the 1950s and much, much more.

“These moving images are the nearest thing to living history that exists.”

The Great Western Approaches Revisited project was unveiled at Westbury station and has been made possible by a grant from GWR’s Customer and Community Improvement Fund.

The fund is designed to support small and medium

rail-related projects that can be completed over the course of the financial year.

GWR business assurance and strategy director, Joe Graham, said: “The Customer and Community Improvement Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in projects that really make a difference to our customers and communities at a local level.

“We’re delighted to support this exciting series of films, helping to inspire travel across routes we serve. I’d like to congratulate all those involved for bringing it to fruition.”

The film features footage of Salisbury and other parts of the South West from yesteryear

Pictures: GWR

£160,000 of funding issued to help boost wellbeing at work in Wiltshire

MOREthan £160,000 has been handed to Wiltshire organisations in a bid to improve wellbeing in the workplace.

Wiltshire Council has handed £160,950 to four organisations to help support employees who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing at work.

The project has been funded from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) as part of the Sustaining Work element of the programme. It will run until March 31 next year.

Grants have been awarded to Help Counselling, Wiltshire Mind, Open Mind Training and Consultancy, and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to provide preventative methods and early interventions to support mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

It is hoped the scheme will support people to sustain working lives, reducing sickness levels caused by poor mental health and promote positive wellbeing in the workplace.

Each provider will deliver their own programme, but all

will be aimed at businesses in Wiltshire, with a focus on small and micro businesses that may not have the internal infrastructure, such as a HR department or an occupational health team, to support staff.

The support will be targeted towards employees in routine and manual roles that are often hard to reach, for people aged 16-25, and for rural businesses.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of the council and cabinet member for economic development, said: “These days, we are all more aware of our mental health and wellbeing, especially in the workplace, which is why we want people to know that there is always support available to those who are struggling.

“This funding will provide local firms with the knowledge and practical tools they need to help improve their mental wellbeing, and I hope local businesses take advantage of these programmes on offer, to better the health of their employees.

“It’s a key priority in our Business Plan to help residents

to prioritise and optimise their health and mental wellbeing, and this is just one of the initiatives that we’re implementing to make this a reality.”

Help Counselling will deliver a programme named Thriving at Work: The Workplaces Counselling Programme, which offers one-to-one counselling for people who are in employment and struggling with mental health issues.

People will be offered up to eight sessions free of charge and this can either be delivered face to face or online.

Wiltshire Mind will be using preventative methods, early interventions, and one-to-one counselling for people with mental health needs.

Planned preventative methods on offer include accredited training courses in Mental Health Awareness, Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Champion training.

Similarly, Open Minds Training and Consultancy will deliver both preventive methods and early interventions

including Mental Health Awareness Training and Mental Health First Aid training.

Businesses will also be offered access to a library of digital support films, covering a variety of common mental health issues. The videos can be used as an additional tool for trained Mental Health First Aiders to support individuals within the business they work.

The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will be delivering a programme named Wild Workplaces, which focuses on both preventative methods and early interventions.

Their preventive methods include open engagement sessions to get people talking about mental health in the workplace, identifying the benefits of businesses investing in mental health support systems, and just generally raising awareness around the topic.

Businesses will also be offered training in Mental Health First Aid, allowing employees to support their colleagues who may be struggling with their mental health.

Gaming shop set up after teenager’s contest win marks a successful year

NOTmany teenagers can say they are successful business owners –especially in today’s economic climate.

But that’s precisely what 17-year-old Emrys can boast as he is celebrating the one year anniversary of his game store, New Realities Gaming.

The family-owned business, in Fisherton Street, specialises in board and trading card games and has become a hub for gamers of all ages from Salisbury and beyond.

Owner Emrys is somewhat of a Pokémon aficionado himself, as he played the Japanese card game at a high enough level to receive an invitation to play at the Pokémon World Championships, which helped fund his business venture.

The teen, who has high functioning autism, said he found outside environments such as schools extremely challenging but the Pokémon trading card game was an early passion of his and travelling to game stores to play trading card games was one of the few activities which gave him the ability to leave the house.

After reaching the World

Championships, he received a large amount of unique products for participating which he realised he could sell to help fund the creation of a business, along with help from his family.

Since opening its doors nearly a year ago, New Realities Gaming has become a safe space for gamers of all ages to meet others and play in person away from the computer, with a focus is on in-person table-top games including board games and trading card games such as Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering.

It provides an alternative to the usual pub, cinema and restaurant options with their daily events and open play area.

The store has grown to become an open space to learn and play new games with others they meet through the shop’s community across various social media platforms such as Discord and Facebook.

“It’s our goal to create a welcoming space and foster a community where people interested in various geek cultures such as trading card games, board games, Dungeons & Dragons and anime can come together,

have fun, and share their love for the games we all enjoy,” said Emrys.

“We can’t thank everyone in the Salisbury community enough for embracing our store and helping us grow, we look forward to celebrating this milestone and looking ahead to another event filled year of games with everyone who has supported us.”

The store, at 142 Fisherton Street, will host a special event on the weekend of August 3 and 4 to mark the milestone and thank the community that has built up over this past year for its constant support.

The celebration will include special discounts to encourage new players, special anniversary tournaments with exciting prizes and open tables for casual gaming and learn-to-play, as well as extended opening hours on Sunday - from 10am to 6pm - to allow more time for events.

While the past year has been challenging in terms of cost of living, and more locally with the roadworks on Fisherton Street, the store has gradually grown their events and communities around table-top games.

Salisbury store closes as Carpetright sold off to rival

MORE than 200 Carpetright stores are set to closeincluding in Salisbury - as part of a deal which saw the struggling firm bought by rival, Tapi.

Last week, it emerged Carpetright was on the verge of

administration, with up to 1,800 jobs at risk. It has since been confirmed flooring firm Tapi has agreed to purchase 54 of the brand’s stores and two warehouses, as well as the brand itself and its intellectual property.

However, the deal means a total of 213 stores are still set to close, according to business consultancy, PwC, with 1,018 people losing their jobs.

Stores set to close include Bath, Bristol, Cribbs, Christchurch, Devizes,

Dorchester, Frome, Glastonbury, Poole, Salisbury and Taunton.

More than 300 jobs have been saved by the deal, which will see stores in Yeovil, Weston super Mare, Chippenham and Trowbridge.

New Realities Gaming has had a successful first year

City guide tours are among the best in the world, according to reviewers

SALISBURY City Guides’ tours of the city are among the best in the world - according to reviews from people who have used them.

The trips have been revealed as having some of the highest in the land by travel review site, Tripadvisor.

Each year, Tripadvisor recognises travellers’ favourite businesses around the world based on reviews and ratings collected over 12 months.

The Travellers’ Choice Awards 2024 honoured businesses that consistently earn great reviews, placing them among the top 10% of listings around the world.

Salisbury City Guides have been actively promoting the city for more than 20 years, offering

bespoke tours and talks.

Their main activity is the daily City Walk, from Salisbury Information Centre, and a Ghost Walk on Friday evenings.

A spokesperson for Tripadvisor said: “It should give the residents of Salisbury some pride to learn that visitors to Salisbury have rated the tours of their city which are offered by Salisbury City Guides as being in the top 10% worldwide.”

John Cutland, from Salisbury City Guides, said they are really pleased and proud to have received such an important international award.

He said: “We take a lot of pleasure in showing visitors the city of Salisbury and the surrounding area and clearly the visitors appreciate what we do.

“We are keen to promote Salisbury to all visitors as it has such great potential for tourism.”

John Boris, chief growth officer at Tripadvisor, said: “Congratulations to Salisbury City Guides on its recognition in Tripadvisors Travellers’ Choice Award 2024.

“Travellers’ Choice honours

businesses that consistently demonstrate a commitment to hospitality excellence.

“This means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took the time to go online and leave a great review about their experience.”

For more information, visit salisburycityguides.co.uk.

City guides show off the best of the city

Documentary that tells the story of African town launched in Fordingbridge

ANEW film telling the story of the past, present and future of a remote East African town has been premiered in Fordingbridge.

Mikindani - a documentary about the town of the same name - launched at the Regal Cinema on Sunday, July 7.

It has been produced by Approach Films and funded through donations to Fordingbridge-based Trade Aid, a charity that “works with the people of Tanzania to create sustainable employment” through vocational and English training, clean water supplies and more.

It tells the story of the town, including

the development and impact of the Mikindani Museum, that Trade Aid has supported since 1997.

Among the group’s achievements is the creation of the Mikindani Museum, which has welcomed thousands of visitors to see the story of the town’s history, including the East African slave trade and Dr David Livingstone, since it opened in 2018.

“The Makonde have a rich heritage which is adapting to a changing world; this intimate and interesting film celebrates the past, present and future of the Makonde,” a spokesperson said.

“It acts as an audio-visual record of passing traditions for future generations as well as acting as an educational tool which will feature within the museum.”

Tim Dench,

Trade Aid trustee, added: “It was great to launch the documentary film with so many long-term supporters but also to people who knew nothing about the Makonde or the work of the Mikindani Museum and Trade Aid generally.

“As well as the events in Fordingbridge our team in Mikindani were able to arrange a showing for those who are the subject of the film.”

All costs for creating the film have been covered by donations, while the time to film, produce and direct it has been done on a voluntary basis.

Approach Films is a North Wales-based company creating factual content and documentary films for organisations championing cultural, environmental and charitable causes, helmed by director Freya Williams.

The film is now free to view online at www.tradeaiduk.org/mikindani-museum.

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

The audience viewing the film and, top, a Q&A with director, Freya Williams, of Approach Films

Group gets insight into work of Frank Lloyd Wright

THEArts Society of Salisbury was taken on a tour highlighting the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright during a special talk on July 9.

The group welcomed Anne Anderson to give a talk on the American’s designs of homes.

Wright was born in 1867 but was in the habit of lying about his age. His mother, Anna, was very progressive, especially regarding his education.

Her husband was a preacher and musician and they were divorced in 1885. He changed his name from Frank Lincoln Wright to Frank Lloyd Wright to honour his mother’s Welsh roots.

He had a distinctive personal style, wearing a fedora hat and walking with a cane. He left his first wife and travelled to Europe with Mamah Cheney but she died in a house fire set by a servant. He was married three times and had seven children.

He was greatly influenced by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Sir Edwin Lutyens. Like William Morris, he believed that a home should contain only items considered to be beautiful or essential.

More than 500 of his designs were built and were conceived as total works of art and as a result were only for the very wealthy.

He loved to incorporate shapes in his designs: squares representing the earth and four seasons; circles being divine, a halo; the triangle the Trinity or mother, father, son.

His houses were intended to settle into the background, low rather than tall, and he essentially invented the car port.

Influenced by Japanese architecture, they were open-plan but often used dividers or furniture to create an intimate area.

Fanlights ensured they had bright interiors, while roofs would be long and low-hipped

to give shade in the prairie summers and protection in the winters.

Fallingwater, in Pennsylvania, was built between 1934-37. It has a river running underneath and to the side of the house and is considered one of his finest buildings.

The best known is the Guggenheim Art Centre in New York. The unusual interior geometry was designed to mimic the angle of an easel, with the Centre finished almost to the day he died in 1959.

The Arts Society Salisbury will now have a summer recess with the next lecture being given by David Haycock on the England of the artist Eric Ravilious.

All lectures are held at St Francis Church, in Beatrice Road, and start at 1.50pm. For non-members, there is an entry fee of £7.

For more information, visit www. theartssocietysalisbury.org.uk or call 01722 331216.

Historic flights set for Salisbury skies throughout 2024

LAST weekend was set to see Old Sarum Airfield host the legendary Harvard ‘Warbird’ historic flights.

The test event on July 27 and 28, was expecting the Harvard, also known as the North American T-6 Texan, to take to the skies over Wiltshire.

The craft was the most popular single-engine advanced trainer aircraft, used to train tens of thousands of pilots from the Royal Air Force, United

States Air Force and Royal Canadian Air Force during WW2.

Since being taken out of active service, the Harvard has been a regular participant at air shows globally, as well as racing and aerobatic teams and has also featured in many Hollywood blockbusters.

Sarah Richards, from Go Fly UK, coordinated the weekend and Grenville Hodge, director of Old Sarum Airfield,

said if the weekend proved successful, they will hope to roll out more historic flying

opportunities throughout the year.

“The visit of the Harvard is a real coup for Old Sarum Airfield and flying enthusiasts alike, and if successful, will be part of our wider plans to welcome more commercial aviation in the first instance and general aviation in the near future,” he said.

For more details, visit www. oldsarumairfield.co.uk.

Pieces large and small promised at Salisbury Group of Artists’ free summer exhibition through August

WORK by the Salisbury Group of Artists (SGA) will go on show from August 3.

The group’s free, annual Summer Exhibition at Gallery 4, at the Central Library, runs from August 3 to 30, with more than 120 original art works set to go on show.

Exhibits will include ceramics, sculptures and work with textiles as well as original paintings, photographs and prints.

The long-standing society has been in existence since the 1940s, and currently has more than 200 members, drawn from Salisbury and the surrounding areas.

Members range from professional artists, teachers and people who have had a lifetime of enjoyment as artists to those who are just starting out to explore their creative talent.

The Wall of Smalls - part of the exhibition dedicated to smaller pieces at keener prices - is set to make a return this year, while there will be the chance to meet the artists between 2pm and 4pm on the

opening day.

Annie George, who curates the exhibition supported by a committee of fellow artists, said: “Please make a diary note to come and see the exhibition on its opening afternoon, and meet some of the artists who have contributed work.

“There are some eyecatching ceramic and sculptural pieces this year, and great pictures from popular local artists across different styles and in different media.”

Martin Webster, chair of the Salisbury Group of Artists, said: “We are keen to share the enjoyment we all have in being creative: this exhibition provides an opportunity to find out more about us and our activities as well as a chance to celebrate some outstanding work by our members.”

The society runs weekly

sessions on Friday afternoons to enable members to paint together, including tea and cake, while the ‘Salisbury Sketchers’ group gets together monthly around Salisbury in the warmer months.

There are also regular art workshops with professional artists in various media, plus

opportunities to exhibit, and to participate in the ArtScene SGA Gazebo and other affordable art sale events.

Members also receive a monthly newsletter to keep them updated.

For more information, log on to www.salisburygroupofartists. co.uk.

Above; Montipulciano, Tuscany by Paul Ryder, above right, ceramic posy vases by Heather Olsen and below, Dozing amongst the daisies, Shetland by Alix Baker

Nex t Sale

European Ceramics & Glass; Clocks, Barometers & Instruments; and Selected Antique Furniture & Objects

Saturday 14th September

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

For free verbal valuations please contact and South Kensington, London Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbur y SP7 9AN 01747 855122 www.semleyauc tioneers com A pair of 18th century

PHIXIUS AUC TIONS

We offer a complete service including assessment of your home for clearance, removal, storage and auction.

No wondering what your items are worth and worrying you don’t know enough. Our expert valuers can assess and give you an idea of what to expect from auction.

You have peace of mind knowing we will do our best to get the highest prices possible for you. Whether it is a partial or complete clearance it makes sense to contact us.

We cover the Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset areas.

Holts spring auction cycle ends in £2 million of sales

HOLTS Spring Auction Cycle has completed and the Summer Auctions are happening now.

The last auctions proved to be another resounding success, raising just on £2 million, selling 90% of the live auction on the hammer.

To book an appointment, arrange a free valuation or home visit please contact: David Thurgood 01297 306123 westcountry@holtsauctioneers.com

As usual, locally-consigned guns did incredibly well, with the interesting and unique exceeding expectations. £600 was paid for a .32 (rimfire) Remington Elliot patent four-barrelled derringer pistol, c1870, even with some tarnish to the exposed iron surfaces the little pistol with a 3 3/8in. barrel cluster well exceeded the initial estimate of £300 to £500

One of the stars of the show from the region was a rare Charles Lancaster 20-Bore Four Barrelled Shot Gun circa 1885 which generated some intense

bidding, eventually selling for £17,000.

HOLTS are accepting consignments for their next auction, with valuation days throughout the region.

The next one at the NFU Sturminster Newton on Thursday, September 5. For full list of venues please see the HOLTS website to book an appointment or discuss a valuation or home visit contact David Thurgood on 01297 306123 or by email to westcountry@holtsauctioneers. com.

Leading the way in online sales

WITH the increasing popularity of online auctions, Phixius Auctions is an emerging player in the industry.

Known for its recordbreaking sales in the past two quarterly auctions, Phixius Auctions is now gearing up for its upcoming September antique sales.

One of the key factors that sets Phixius Auctions apart from its competitors is its commitment to providing free evaluations for high-value items.

This not only allows sellers to get a better understanding of the worth of their items but also ensures that the auctions feature a diverse range of valuable items that attract buyers from around the globe.

The success of Phixius Auctions can be attributed to its

ADVERTISING FEATURE

strategic marketing efforts, robust online platform, and a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing top-notch service to both sellers and buyers.

From rare antiques to contemporary art pieces, Phixius Auctions showcases a wide range of collectibles that cater to the diverse interests of its clientele.

As the September auction approaches, collectors and enthusiasts are eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to acquire unique and valuable items from Phixius Auctions.

Whether you are looking to consign your items for sale or are in the market for valuable collectibles, Phixius Auctions is the go-to destination for

high-quality auctions that promise an unforgettable experience.

With a track record of success and a reputation for excellence, Phixius Auctions

continues to set the bar high in the world of online auctions.

Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of the next chapter in the success story of Phixius Auctions.

for general to more specialised

Excellent Customer Feedback from every Job Undertaken. Call Roman 07388-932670

Local

• Pump & Tank Servicing

info@wessexdrainage.co.uk www.wessexdrainage.co.uk

Job figures in Salisbury revealed in Commons data

THE number of people claiming unemployment benefits rose in the UK by 32,300 last month.

New figures released by the House of Commons Library said the total in June was 1.66 million, 127,800 higher than at the same point last year.

The library has issued figures by constituency, giving a snapshot of employment in our area.

According to the data, which comes with some caveats, the total number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance, plus those “claiming Universal Credit who are required to seek work” in the Salisbury constituency was 1,310, an increase of 115 on last year (10%).

Across the south west, there was an increase of 8,550 claimants (10%) when compared to last year.

In the 18 to 24 age group, Salisbury showed a drop of five claimants on last year, with 200 people receiving unemployment benefits.

Full-Time Groom required at Ferne Park, Berwick St John

• Professionally ran family yard, with excellent facilities. Hunt horses, polo ponies and international showjumpers.

• Candidate must be capable of all usual yard duties, with meticulous attention to detail and a good can-do approach to everything.

• Accommodation on the estate provided if necessary.

• Start Date: September 2024

• 5 days a week & competitive Salary!

Please get in touch with addison.road@dmgt.co.uk if you are interested!

Small friendly manufacturing company in Semley, now recruiting for the following full-time positions

Assembly Technician

Will suit someone with an interest in electrical and mechanical assembly, needs a good eye for detail. Preferably with electrical experience or knowledge/understanding.

Welder Fabricator

(5)

(5)

Tall water grass (4)

Gazing (7) 9 Writing tool (9,3) 14 Internet service (7) 16 Sycophants (7)

18 Ring road (6)

21 Charged atom or molecule (5)

Horse’s gait (4)

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

1 Modern communication from Spain Irishman rejected (5)

4 Come out of say army section in retreat (6)

10 Shady director is by hotel exchanging notes (9)

11 Young man in tune almost (3)

12 Fashion designer, familiarly, with a hot drink (5)

Down

2 Sound in bars? (5)

3 Keep detached one in this way with awkward tale (7)

5 Dull count falling short (5)

6 Muscovite, maybe, almost certainly recalled Welsh woman (7)

7 Source of eruptions in rocket named (4)

13 African country with rookie driver off for peninsula (6)

14 Popular command, one by civilized chap that’s clever (11)

18 Finally where worker in shoe factory might be? (2,4)

23 Port in disorder without end (3)

8 Journalist in charge beginning to transgress law (5)

9 Village site agitated regarding lawmaking? (11)

Finally where worker in shoe factory might be? (2,4)

Row

20 Row about South Carolina getting prestigious award (5)

24 Commercial enterprise is something daring (9)

25 Old theologian with appeal over year, a peculiar thing (6)

26 Time in play adjusted in a suitable way (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

15 Figure upset by sensitive area, we hear –feature of tennis (3,4)

16 Mature queen in ceremonial dress on horseback (5-2)

17 Conservative aristocrat brought up, unpleasant person (5)

19 A US lawyer has point to modify (5)

21 Regret interrupting cold lecturer devoid pity? (5)

Sound in bars? (5)

22 Brazil I love showing liveliness (4)

Keep detached one in this way with awkward tale (7)

5 Dull count falling short (5) 6 Muscovite, maybe, almost certainly recalled Welsh woman (7)

7 Source of eruptions in rocket named (4)

8 Journalist in charge beginning to transgress law (5)

9 Village site agitated regarding lawmaking? (11)

15 Figure upset by sensitive area, we hear – a feature of tennis (3,4)

16 Mature queen in ceremonial dress on horseback (5-2) 17 Conservative aristocrat brought up, unpleasant person (5)

(9)

19 A US lawyer has point to modify (5)

Regret interrupting cold lecturer devoid of pity? (5) 22 Brazil I love showing liveliness (4)

Trial of AI cameras in Wiltshire to be extended

ATRIAL

of new hi-tech cameras that can detect if a driver is using a mobile phone, speeding, or not wearing a seatbelt is to be extendedincluding on Wiltshire roads.

National Highways and police forces across the country are set to extend the trial of new, mobile technology, which can automatically detect motorists who are not wearing a seatbelt or using mobile phones while driving with the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

It has been announced that 10 police forces will be using the new technology as part of an ongoing trial that began in 2021.

The police forces taking part in the trial are Durham, Greater Manchester Police, Humberside, Staffordshire, West Mercia, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk, Thames Valley Police,

and Sussex.

Using AI, the cameras captures and processes footage of drivers that could be using a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel or driving without a seat belt on.

The cameras, which are mounted on the side of the road to a vehicle or trailer – are positioned higher than traditional speed or traffic cameras in order to catch drivers who are committing either of the two offences.

During the initial trials, National Highways sent offenders warning letters informing them of the dangers of their behaviour.

In partnership with Texasbased multinational infrastructure consulting firm AECOM, the trial will be extended until March next year.

The aim for the police forces involved is the trial is to learn more about how the technology could work on National Highways roads and inform a possible future roll-out nationwide, the agency confirmed.

The agency also revealed that there are currently plans for the technology to be fixed to gantries on motorways in the regions where the trial is being extended.

This means that they would have an unobscured view of all lanes.

RAC road safety spokesperson, Rod Dennis, said: “Despite the penalties for using a handheld phone having doubled to six penalty points and a £200 fine seven years ago, it’s clear far too many drivers are still prepared to put lives at

risk by engaging in this dangerous practice.

“We suspect a major reason for this is a lack of enforcement, meaning many drivers have no fear of being caught.

“AI-equipped cameras that can automatically detect drivers breaking the law offer a chance for the tide to be turned.

“The police can’t be everywhere all of the time, so it makes sense that forces look to the best available technology that can help them catch drivers acting illegally.

“What’s more, we know from RAC research that drivers are widely supportive of tougher enforcement of the law around handheld mobile phone use, with nearly half of these (47%) saying that camera technology like this is the best way of doing so.”

Most Brits don’t know emergency numbers abroad

WITH Brits set to take millions of car trips across the Channel this summer, new RAC research has found six-in-10 (62%) don’t know the right number to call to get help in an emergency.

Just 38% of those surveyed by RAC Europe knew they should call 112 in the event of an emergency in the European

Union.

Among the others, a third (32%) have no idea which number to call if they found themselves in need of urgent help on the continent, while one-in-10 (12%) say they would dial 999 – the UK’s three-digit emergency services’ number.

Here’s a quick list of some useful emergency numbers:

112: All of the European Union plus many other European countries, including Switzerland, Turkey and the UK

911: All of North America

111: NHS non-emergency assistance in England, Scotland and Wales

Bridge waterproofing work finished

WORK

to repair waterproofing on a Salisbury bridge has been completed.

Wiltshire Council has overseen the work on the Fisherton Street Bridge, which involved removing existing footpath slabs and road surface to expose the bridge deck.

The deck was then prepared for a new spray-applied waterproofing system before the slabs were re-laid, and the road was reinstated to base level.

Final surfacing will be completed at the same time as the resurfacing of Fisherton Street and its side roads, during overnight road closures between August 12 and 23.

Cllr Nick Holder, the council’s cabinet member for highways, Street Scene, and

flooding, said: “Routine inspections revealed water seeping through the bridge deck which, if left unaddressed, could compromise the long-term maintenance of the structure.

“By undertaking these preventative measures now, we aim to avoid more costly and time-consuming repairs in the

future. This aligns with our Business Plan’s goal of ensuring we have well-connected communities.

“Although this work is

separate from the £9 million investment in the city centre funded by the Future High Streets Fund, it was prudent to carry out the bridge waterproofing alongside the ongoing enhancements at Fisherton Gateway. This approach took advantage of existing traffic management arrangements at the western end of the Fisherton Gateway scheme, minimising further disruption to local residents and businesses. We would like to thank residents and businesses in the area for their patience during the completion of this essential work.”

Crossword

AVANT GARDE

Servicing - MOT Class 4 & 7 - Tyres - Four - Wheel Laser Alignment - ADAS Calibrations - BrakesAir Conditioning - Diagnostics - Welding - ExhaustsBatteries - Suspension - Clutches

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 will cause excessive wear to your tyres, steering and suspension componenents. To prevent high repair costs, or tyre replacement from misaligned wheels you could potentially save yourself money by checking the alignment.

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.

Olympics-inspired activities on offer at leisure centres across Wiltshire

THEParis Olympics - which got underway over the weekend - have inspired a range of activities at Wiltshire leisure centres.

Wiltshire Council-run venues have announced a range of activities inspired by the Games, designed to encourage communities to get active.

Whether you are an aspiring athlete or just looking for some summer fun, there are a variety of activities to capture the spirit of the Games, said cabinet member for leisure, Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling.

“We are keen to encourage people to lead healthy and active lifestyles and provide sporting opportunities for our communities,” he said.

“Our state-of-the-art facilities, professional staff, and diverse range of programmes provide the perfect environment for individuals and families to embrace the Olympic spirit and get involved in some of our activities, whether that’s trying a completely new sport or looking to perfect something that they are already involved in.”

Activities on offer include: Swim for Gold

Intensive swimming lessons are available at Bradford on Avon Swimming Pool, Calne Community Campus, Devizes Leisure Centre, Five Rivers Health and Wellbeing Centre in Salisbury, Lime Kiln Leisure Centre, Olympiad in Chippenham, Melksham Community Campus, Trowbridge Sports Centre and Warminster Sports Centre.

Pupils will benefit from a lesson a day

The Paris Olympics are inspiring a range of activities at leisure centres in Wiltshire

over a week, to help them gain confidence, learn key skills and have fun in the water.

The courses are an ideal way to introduce children to swimming or to those already in the council’s swim school programme.

Inspired by Olympic champions, the council’s experienced instructors provide personalised coaching to help swimmers reach their full potential.

Details of the intensive courses, with booking information are available: www. wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-swim-school. Master the perfect entry

Trowbridge Sports Centre is offering diving lessons for those budding Tom Daleys who want to learn or perfect their take-off, execution and entry.

Courses are open to children who are eight years and over and have completed at least 90% of Swim England stage five.

Participants need to be confident in deep water and be able to swim 25 metres strongly.

Lessons for children will be held on Wednesday, July 31, Thursday, August 1, and Friday, August 9, with an adult diving lesson on Thursday, August 8. Spaces on the sessions are limited and can be booked on 01225 764342.

Leap to Olympic heights

Trampolining and Gymnastics intensive courses are available at Lime Kiln Leisure Centre for children looking to improve their pikes, twists, arabesques and turns.

Suitable for children who are four years and above who are in full time education, the courses are ideal for beginners or for

those looking to work on the skills learnt in their regular weekly class.

Four and five-day courses are available throughout the summer and can be booked on 01793 852197 or in the centre.

Team up for glory

Visit the Nadder Centre in Tisbury for a variety of group activities and fun sessions, where participants can compete in events such as dodgeball, football, racquet sports, circuits and foam dart wars.

These fun and engaging activities are open to children between the ages of five to 11, encouraging everyone to push their limits, learn teamwork and create fun memories.

Sessions can be booked at www. wiltshire.gov.uk/article/4393/Timetableand-booking or on 01722 434240.

Elsewhere...

With 20 leisure centres in Wiltshire, a variety of other Olympic sports such as basketball, football, tennis, badminton, table-tennis and climbing can be booked on request. Holiday swimming timetables will also be in operation, offering a variety of swimming sessions to choose from.

Visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisureleisure-and-sport-centres for more information on local centres.

A full summary of the summer holiday provision can be found at www.wiltshire. gov.uk/leisure-promotions.

For more information on an individual leisure centre, visit the leisure centre pages on the Wiltshire Council website at www. wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-leisure-and-sportcentres.

‘It’s

BEFOREtime to act on processed food’

the general election, I was out meeting residents in my ward (Stratford & St Francis) to talk about local issues, but inevitably national issues and discontent with the then-government cropped up over, and over, again.

One of the most disturbing issues was raised by an elderly lady expressing concerns about the supply of her insulin prescription to manage diabetes.

The Nuffield Trust has warned “...drug shortages were the ‘new normal” and Brexit was “worsening the situation”. This situation is causing anxiety and concern among those required to stabilise their condition.

What is even more concerning for us all, are recent figures published by Diabetes UK. The number of people under 40 being diagnosed with type-2 diabetes in the UK has risen 39% in six years, fuelled by soaring obesity levels and

‘We

Justcheap junk food.

Looking back to August last year, the Mail and the Guardian reported a warning provided by former Government food adviser Henry Dumbleby.

“Britain is particularly bad for ultra-processed food (UPF). It is storing up problems for the future. If we do nothing, ‘a tidal wave of harm’ will hit the NHS...”.

The response from Rishi Sunak to this warning was to announce legislation - due to be introduced in October 2023 and targeting multi-buy promotions on products high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) by enforcing a government ban on ‘two-forone’ junk food deals - was to be deferred until October 2025.

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

The PM’s justification for kicking this particular can down the road, was to protect “people’s rights to

choose”, claiming “it is not fair for government to restrict the options available to consumers”.

The then-PM assured us this move was due to the current cost of living crisis but if, as he claimed, the legislation will come into effect in October 2025, he is also only deferring the decision to restrict “people’s rights to choose” and their “available options”.

The report said people faced a more aggressive and acute form of diabetes when it developed at a younger age. It said: “It is also associated with

an increased risk of more rapid onset of devastating complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, sight loss and even an early death.”

Currently, two in three adults are overweight or obese and the NHS spends £6bn a year treating obesity-related illhealth. That is forecast to rise to £10bn a year by 2050.

But hey, why should he worry about long-term issues about public health and an understaffed NHS?

Then-shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, said: “It is an outrage that tens of thousands more young people are now suffering with type 2 diabetes thanks to years of Tory cowardice.

“The Conservative party has chickened out of acting on junk food advertising time and time again, despite obesity costing the NHS billions and having terrible effects on the health of our children.”

must scrap two-child benefit cap’

before the General Election, I was knocking on doors in Harnham and came across a single mum who said she probably was not going to vote as life was just too exhausting and what was the point?

She worked all hours, her council tax and bills were going up, she couldn’t afford the things her son asked for and was in tears talking to me on her doorstep as life was just so tough.

So many people in our community feel this way.

They are swimming against a tide of rising bills, unaffordable childcare - especially as the summer holidays have startedand pay that just does not seem to keep up.

So many people this election felt that no party would solve their problems.

One change that the Lib

Dems have been calling for for months is the scrapping of the two child benefits limit.

This policy - introduced by the previous, Conservative government – prevents households on universal or child tax credit from receiving payments for a third or subsequent child born after April 2017.

Victoria Charleston Lib Dem Parliamentary spokesperson for Salisbury constituency

440,000 households and over 1.5 million children are being impacted by the two child benefit cap. 30,000 of those households are in the South West.

These are astonishing numbers and this policy is having a real impact on children and their life-chances.

Hungry children cannot concentrate in school.

The new Labour Government have said they will introduce a strategy to reduce child poverty.

The aim of this policy was to boost employment and reduce the number of children families have.

According to the Resolution Foundation, it has absolutely failed to meet its aims. Instead, it has increased the number of children living in poverty - 59% of whom are from working households.

This is encouraging but scrapping the two-child cap could be a first step, quick step, in that plan.

I am proud that Liberal Democrats will keep campaigning to scrap it, which would be the quickest and most cost-effective way to lift children out of poverty with huge long-term benefits for our society and our economy.

Housing association hands out more than £20,000 to support tenants through the cost-of-living crisis

AHOUSING

association that manages homes across Wiltshire helped hundreds from its cost-of-living crisis support fund.

White Horse Housing Association, which is marking its 40th anniversary in 2024, supported more than 170 households through its Discretionary Support Fund last year.

The association has more than 400 homes in rural areas across Swindon, Wiltshire and Somerset, was able to award tenants more than £20,000 in payments and vouchers.

It also has another £23,000 available for tenant support which is available until September.

It set up the fund in response to the plight of tenants who were falling into rent arrears because they were struggling to pay heating bills or feed their families.

Originally, £6,000 was set aside for the fund from the housing association’s reserves but, said operations director Belinda Eastland, with the rising cost of living it became clear that would not be enough to meet demand.

Wiltshire Council invited housing associations operating within the county to apply for an allocation of the Household Support Fund from the Government.

“As a result we were granted an initial award of £12,000 in October, followed by a further £5,000 towards the end of the year. For 2024 we have been granted another £17,000,” said Mrs Eastland.

“We’re very grateful for the support of the council, together with our own budget, it has allowed us to make 264 payments to 88 of our most

vulnerable households.

“We are delighted to have that support once again.”

The association’s housing officers also successfully applied for £4,000 from the HACT Fuel Fund to provide vulnerable tenants with electricity vouchers.

The majority of the support provided from the fund last year was through food vouchers, but there was also help with utility costs, rent arrears assistance, council tax assistance and damage caused by domestic violence.

“We were able to support vulnerable households through the worst part of the winter and the Christmas period,” said Mrs Eastland.

“We had an overwhelmingly positive response from our tenants and we believe that was reflected in the satisfaction rates we received in our tenant survey

White Horse Housing Association operations director

at the end of last year.”

The survey found 96 per cent of White Horse tenants are satisfied with its service, while more than three-quarters believe the association makes a positive contribution to their neighbourhood, and 85 per cent say it listens to their views and acts upon them.

After receiving a Discretionary Support Fund grant, one tenant wrote to staff: “Thank you for thinking of us, so kind. It brought a tear to my eye. We didn’t expect that much.”

Another said: “I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart and say how much I appreciate the payment.”

White Horse Housing Association tenants who are struggling financially can email the housing association at info@whitehorsehousing.co.uk for a confidential assessment.

Belinda Eastland, left, with housing assistant Tracey Crook and housing officer Ann Norvill