Salisbury and Avon Gazette Issue 21

• Top: Singing group gets £10,000 cash boost page 6

• Above: Tony marks 101st birthday with friends and family page 10 • Left: Drumhead service returns to Fovant page 7

Salisbury Hospice Charity announces Countess Pembroke as patron

SALISBURY Hospice Charity has announced the Countess of Pembroke as its new charity patron.

“We welcome her valuable support and enthusiasm as we continue to grow and raise essential funds for Salisbury Hospice,” a spokesperson for the group said.

And the Countess said: “It was a great honour and privilege to have been asked to become Patron of Salisbury Hospice Charity.

“I am humbled by the incredible work carried out by the hospice and I am inspired by the profound impact it has on the lives of patients and their families during their most challenging moments.

“The charity’s commitment to ensuring comfort, dignity and solace to those in need is truly commendable. I’m delighted to be opening the Salisbury Summer Fair this year and look forward to welcoming everyone to the fun filled day, which raises an incredible amount for the hospice.”

The Salisbury Summer Fair (formally

known as The Wessex Country Fair) takes place on Saturday, August 5, in the grounds of the Wilton House Estate. There will be plenty of activities and entertainment on offer. Live music will be provided by Izzii Moorland, Navy Larks and Sticky Toffee Jazz, among others. There will also be have-a-go children’s activities, like Kidz Love Fit sessions, a

climbing wall, archery and an exciting treasure trail. Other attractions include camels, Tumble Tots, Chuffley the miniature steam engine and a whole village dedicated to children’s activities and entertainment. There will be plenty of fun and laughter for the whole family.

K&H Falconry return with their incredible Barn Owl performances in the main arena alongside Star Cast, Paws For Thought display and the ultimate Hobby Horse Derby. You can join in the morning or afternoon duck race on the river Nadder and cheer your duck to the finish line.

Car enthusiasts will enjoy classic cars and the Land Rover village, which will be celebrating 75 years of the iconic Defender.

A health wellness village, The Retreat, will provide a packed timetable of classes, talks and treatments.

For the full event schedule and to get your tickets please visit https://www. salisburyhospicecharity.

Celebrating 25 years of ‘doing something brilliant’

SPIRE u3a is currently marking 25 years of activity in and around Harnham, Salisbury.

u3a is a worldwide collection of like-minded groups that provide the opportunity, for those no longer in full-time work, to come together to learn for fun.

In the last few weeks, Spire members have held a (very busy) coffee morning at St Thomas’s Church, celebrated with a picnic in the garden behind the Rifles Museum, visited some lovely Open Gardens and had a lovely mini outing to St John’s Place where we were entertained by the George Herbert in Bemerton Society.

That is in addition to all the usual interest group activities.

The July monthly meeting featured a presentation by Colin van Geffen on the twin topics of Nelson and HMS Victory.

Phil Whitemore reported: “At his final

battle at Trafalgar on HMS Victory, Nelson was clearly visible on the top deck in the thick of the action.

“A musket ball hit him and shattered his spine, and he died three hours later, but he knew the battle was won.

“Nelson’s body was brought back to England in a barrel of brandy – the ship carrying him was called HMS Pickle.

“It took three years to build HMS Victory, of oak and elm; completed in 1765.

“In 1903, she was due to be destroyed, but King Edward VII saved her.

“Every year to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar, 21 October, Victory flies the signal message from Nelson – ‘England expects that every man will do his duty’.”

On Monday, 14th August, the group’s guest speaker will be Christine Mason, who will be giving a talk on Rex Whistler. Doors open at the Harnham Memorial Hall at 10am.

Anyone who is retired or semi-retired is welcome to go to a meeting to find out more about Spire u3a.

Lady Pembroke will open Salisbury Summer Fair as the new patron of Salisbury Hospice Charity

SPIRE u3a with scones, cake, mugs and hot coffee at the ready in St Thomas’s Church.

Team battle unseasonal weather for charity cycle challenge to Devon

A GROUP of intrepid cyclists saddled up for a journey of over 100 miles from Wiltshire to Devon for the Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital’s Charity.

The group set off from Marston, near Devizes, on the morning of 13 July, heading first to Axminster and then onto Mortonhampsted on the edge of Dartmoor.

Despite unseasonal weather, the group made it in one piece and in good spirits and at the time of writing have far exceeded the original target of £5,000 – the figure currently stands at over £28,000.

William Warden, of Conservation Contractors in Devizes, with his friends John Matthews, Andy Hillier, Matt Oakes, Mike and Elaine Davis, Nick Cordel, Matt Hurley, Alistair Fenwick, Wayne Davis, Tristan Warden and Chris Combe, have come together to form The Unlikely Cyclists.

The group’s ages range from under 30 to over 70. William was inspired to take on the

fundraising challenge after his wife Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer last year.

She was treated at the Salisbury District Hospital Breast Unit, which was funded by donations to the Stars Appeal.

He said: “I was sitting in the Breast Unit with my wife, Sarah, one damp and dark winter’s day. They have a list of people who have raised or donated money to get the unit there and I felt I would like to do something to help.

“While sitting there on my own, I had a ‘Eureka moment’ – a group of friends were all going to Devon in July for a clay shoot so I would cycle there and raise a few pounds on the way.

“Having told everyone who was joining me in Devon my plan, most thought I was bonkers but, as time went by, a few hardy souls said they would like to try and do it as well. Thus ‘The Unlikely Cyclists’ were born. As with these things, it gathered pace, which spurred everyone along.

“Raising money for a local hospital and cancer treatment must be one of the most gratifying causes as we all get older and there are several health battles going on within the team, but this seems only to drive everyone a little harder,” he added.

The Stars Appeal fund projects across Salisbury Hospital which offer direct, practical support to patients, their families, and the Hospital’s staff. The charity has provided the Hospital with additional CT and MRI scanners.

Donations also help fund projects supporting cancer patients, including free aromatherapy, headwear for patients who lose their hair, free drinks for chemotherapy and oncology outpatients, and a prehabilitation programme offering one-to-one support to help patients prepare for surgery and treatment.

The Unlikely Cyclists’ challenge took place over two days and 112 miles.

Speaking before the ride,

William said: “We all agree it will be hard work but, broken down over two days, we will all support each other along the way.

“The uphill part from Exeter to Dartmoor will be a hard slog on day two.”

His wife Sarah added: “Seeing ‘The Unlikely Cyclists’ peddling off on training runs and coming back slightly less exhausted each week leaves me very humbled that they are prepared to give up their time, which we all are short of, to help raise funds.”

Helena Sinclair, of the Stars Appeal, said: “We want to wish William and the Unlikely Cyclists the best of luck with their cycling challenge.

“They have raised an incredible amount so far which will support projects making a difference to patients at Salisbury Hospital.”

People can still make donations to the fundraiser online by visiting https://www.

The Unlikely Cyclists took on a journey of some 100 miles for the Stars Appeal

Group’s uplifting bra tally means more support for women in Africa

AN appeal for used bras has given vital support to a charity helping those in need in Africa.

This year’s appeal for donations of bras by the Salisbury Soroptimists produced another record-breaking total - with 3,736 garments handed over.

They will now be taken to London before being shipped to countries across Africa.

A spokesperson for the soroptimists said a team of volunteers gathered to sort, count and bag the bras.

“Many hands made light work of the count so we had time for some light refreshments,” they said.

“If any neighbours heard us talking about putting bodies into black bags, please be assured we were talking about lingerie.”

However, there was one incident of theft, when a canine bra thief got involved, they added.

The bags of bras were labelled and will be delivered to the Afreebra charity, which

has storage capacity in Twickenham, before being fown to Africa and donated to women

who otherwise would not be able to afford such garments.

“Imagine the boost to your confidence and self-esteem by wearing a ‘luxury’ garment,” the spokesperson added.

“Like in many places, women are often last in the queue for family finances and their needs come low down the priority list.”

People are being urged to hang on to their bras for next year’s appeal.

For more information on the soroptimists and their work, log on to https://sigbi.org/salisbury.

Young people from Bemerton Heath have been taking the lead in developing a youth hub on the estate

YOUNG people from Bemerton Heath have been working with youth workers from local charity Rise:61 to develop a dedicated youth hub on the estate.

The young leaders group have been working with an architect to develop the plans over the past year and have started to fundraise for the project.

Three of them, aged 16 to 18-years-old, recently undertook a real challenge by taking part in the Rood Rampage a muddy race held in Trowbridge, where they had to run miles through thick mud as well as conquer numerous challenging obstacles.

Joe Deal, one of the youth workers who ran with them said: “We were so impressed

with the young people’s courage to undertake a challenge way out of their comfort zone.

“They’ve been so engaged and helpful in developing plans for a youth hub here on Bemerton Heath and it was great to see them helping to fundraise

too. I think overcoming challenges like this is a great way to develop their confidence and community spirit.”

Rise:61 has plans to do at least two more fundraising challenges with groups of young people this year as part

of a £3,000 grant from the #iwillfund through Wiltshire Community Foundation. The #iwillfund is made possible by joint investment from The National Lottery Community Fund and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to support young people to access high quality social action opportunities.

As the challenges are funded, this means any money raised through sponsorship goes directly towards the project and a generous donor has even agreed to match fund it up to £4,000

A Go Fund Me page is available to anyone who is able and generous enough to donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ youth-hub-building-project

Salisbury Soroptimists pictured with bags full of bras that will soon be flown to African countries and donated to women who would otherwise be unable to afford them

New Forest District Council’s review

of year’s performance

AT A cabinet meeting held on 5 July, New Forest District councillors considered the annual performance report for 2022 to 2023.

The yearly review looks at how council services have performed over the past 12 months. Each priority in NFDC’s Corporate Plan, the document for 2020 to 2024 that sets the targets and direction of work for the council’s services, is scrutinised.

Leader of the council, Cllr Jill Cleary, said: “This report has allowed me to reflect on the corporate plan, and how its title, ‘Community Matters’, feels even more pertinent to me than it did when my party set it in early 2020.

“Little did we know then the challenges that we, our communities, and our staff and finances, would be faced with when a pandemic, cost of living crisis, and a stronger drive to address the climate emergency presented themselves.

“So we should be rightly proud when we look at the performance achieved by our services and staff.”

The council highlighted a number of areas, such as agreement on a waste strategy, establishing five community hubs, distributing government grants to those most in need and delivering £220k in community grants.

“I am proud of the achievements that have been highlighted,” Cllr Leary added. “This report is the opportunity to reflect on the council’s performance in the past, as we turn to look at our priorities and plans for the future, delivering essential services that matter to our residents.”

The annual performance report is published at https:// democracy.newforest.gov.uk/ ieListDocuments.aspx for registered users.

Sounds Better celebrates receiving Lottery funding

COMMUNITY group Sounds Better CIC is celebrating after being awarded £10k in National Lottery funding to support its work with Salisbury Breathless Singers, a singing group for people living with lung conditions, breathlessness or long Covid.

The group, which meets in-person in Wilton and also has members attending remotely via Zoom, has been running for several years now and has become a wonderful community of friends as well as a singing group.

Sounds Better CIC also runs six-week introductory courses in partnership with Salisbury’s Parish Nurse at various venues around Salisbury and simultaneously online via Zoom.

The new funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery

players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK, will help to keep the group running.

Sessions are on a donation basis, with nobody turned away due to lack of funds; there is always an option to attend for free. This means funding from the Lottery is incredibly helpful in allowing the group to

continue.

Liv McLennan, director of Sounds Better CIC, said: “We are so delighted to have secured this funding; the group has been running for several years, and alongside the courses, we’ve supported nearly 200 people.

“We’re really pleased to be able to continue this important work.”

Police renew appeal over crash that tragically killed boy, 11

POLICE have issued a renewed appeal for information regarding a crash which tragically saw an 11-year-old boy killed.

The incident happened on the A303 between the Countess Roundabout and Stonehenge at around 7.30pm on Saturday, July 8.

“A black BMW travelling westbound from the Countess Roundabout towards Stonehenge was involved in a collision with a lorry which was parked in a layby,” a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said.

“An 11-year-old boy was declared dead at the scene, while the driver of the car, a man in his 40s, and a 15-yearold boy were taken to hospital with serious injuries.

“The driver of the lorry was uninjured.”

Investigating officer, DC Charlotte Upton of the Serious Collision Investigation Team (SCIT), said: “This was a tragic incident where a young boy has sadly lost his life.

“We are making a renewed appeal for anyone who

witnessed the incident or who may have dash cam footage from either side of the carriageway at around that time to please get in touch with us.

“If you were travelling through Wiltshire via the A303 that evening, or perhaps heading to Stonehenge, then please check any dash cam footage you have to see if it captured anything which could help us with our investigation.

“Any little bit of information could be vital in helping us piece together what happened.”

Anyone with information should contact SCIT on 01225 694597 quoting log number 289 of July 8.

They can also contact the team directly by email to SCIT@wiltshire.police.uk.

Drumhead service returns to Fovant

ON 2 July, The Fovant Badges Society held its first Annual Drumhead Service since 2019 due to the pandemic.

The service is always held on the closest Sunday to 1 July, which was the first day of the Battle of the Somme.

Not knowing how large the congregation might be it was encouraging that a near 280 guests, members of the society, friends and residents joined in the rousing hymns accompanied by Shaftesbury Silver Band.

Twelve British Legion standard bearers stood proudly in respect alongside the Sarum and Tisbury Detachments of the Wiltshire ACF which added to the occasion. The service was led by The Venerable Alan Jeans.

As the service is held in a barn close to the badges the resident swallows and sparrows also sang their hearts out which made it even more memorable.

As the guest of honour, the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Mrs Sarah Troughton gave a moving address to the congregation which included the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, The High Sheriff of Dorset, vice Chair of Wiltshire Council, Mayors from Salisbury,

Amesbury, Shaftesbury and Wilton, the Jerboa Troop Officer in Command of Squadron 11 Royal School Signals 8 soldiers.

Representatives were also present from Alabaré, Boots on the Ground Veterans and Buddy to Buddy, who have helped to maintain the badges during the course of the last year, as well as Dr Andrew Murrison, MP for Fovant, to mention just a few.

An attendee at the service said: “This was a very British occasion, solemn and respectful and showed us why the badges are so highly thought of and remind us of those that carved them out before they went overseas to war.

“Many did not return.”

After the service, most attendees gathered in the garden of East Farm, kindly agreed by the Williams family, where tea and cakes were enjoyed.

General Sir Nick Parker, president of the society, José Green, chair of the trustees, and the other FBS trustees said they would like to thank everyone for their attendance and kind donations making the afternoon a special and unique occasion which will be long remembered by attendees.

Clockwise from above: British Legion Standard Bearers leaving the Service; Mayor of Salisbury Cllr Atiqul Hoque, José Green, Mrs Sarah Troughton, Cllr Andrew Davis; Australian Army Officers with Team Leader of the Cadets

New Forest Council set to launch community renewable energy scheme

NEW Forest District Council (NFDC) has plans to launch a new community energy programme in a bid to reduce carbon emissions and raise climate change awareness in the district.

The council is partnering with Community Energy South to deliver a two-year initiative that will support community groups in the New Forest to develop community-owned renewables, which will generate low-carbon heat and power and reduce energy use from the national grid.

New Forest District Council is supporting the creation of the community energy groups by providing Community Energy South with £100k in funding.

Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, NFDC portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, said: “This two-year partnership with Community Energy South ensures that we are continuing to support our district in

Renewable energy schemes aim to reduce carbon emissions and raise awareness of climate issues

Credit: Freepik

reducing carbon emissions and improve energy security, while helping to raise awareness of the impact of locally led action on climate change, and aligns with our aims as council for the

district to become net carbon zero by 2050.

“With this support from New Forest District Council and Community Energy South, our communities can build and

invest in and benefit from their own renewable energy.”

Ollie Pendered, CEO of Community Energy South, said: “We are very happy to be working with the New Forest District Council on this ambitious new programme.

“Communities in the New Forest have a fantastic track record of delivering community-led action on sustainability and the environment and we hope to build on this work to support the development of a community energy group that can then develop community owned renewables.

“Community energy is a key component of our net zero aims, as well as building local energy resilience.”

Residents can find out more about the project on the Community Energy South website at https://www. communityenergysouth.org

Scouts face up to the challenge at Strategy event

AT the tail end of June, Scouts from the 4th Salisbury (Harnham) Scout Group took part in a national Scout and Explorer Scout event called Strategy that featured over 2,000 participants in 336 teams.

In total, 2,700 people attended the event, which was set in more than 3,000 acres of mixed woodland and fields at Cirencester Park on the Bathurst Estate.

Strategy is a multi-activity challenge hike consisting of 30 bases

of varying difficulty and complexity set around the vast site.

Each challenge

earned a different amount of points and teams had to plan their route and decide which challenges to visit in the allotted time to score the most points.

This year’s bases included supermarket

sweep, making a map of Britain, blindfold string trail, rock climbing, inflatable axe throwing, making a bucket weigh 2kg, passing the whole team through a piece of paper, nail painting, a kit check, CPR and throwing tea bags into cups.

One of the teams from the 4th Salisbury finished in 12th place.

Rose petal Sunday celebrated at the Church of St Thomas Becket

ROSE petals continued to drift over the city of Salisbury long after they were dropped from the tower of the Church of St Thomas Becket on Sunday, 15th July.

Crowds gathered below the tower. The choir sang. Trumpets high above heralded what was about to happen as the people chanted the countdown: ten, nine, eight...

The tradition of the Rose Petal blessing dates back over 40 years and coincides with the patronal festival. The petals were the gift of the church to the people and institutions of the town.

Guest preacher for the occasion was The Dean of Salisbury Cathedral, The Very Revd Nick Papadopulos. Referring to his time at Canterbury Cathedral and the readings of the day he spoke of the two prophetic lives:

“The pattern of their living and their dying has the power to shape us, but only if we choose to let it – like Matthew and Thomas did.”

The Dean also mentioned contemporary

events in Jenin Refugee camp where people, with little to trust in, were forced from their homes by the terror of military attacks.

“Hosea calls it love. Love alone casts out fear.”

The tradition goes back 40 years and is linked to the patronal festival, which is a celebration of the ‘patron’ linked to the site

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

Nobody likes to think about getting old, but it is certainly worth thinking about if you value your home. That is because your house could very well have a charge placed upon it or sold by the local council to pay for your care fees. If a person’s capital and savings, including equity in their home, is worth more than £23,250, they will have to fund their own care.

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

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

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

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

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

Chris Tennant Oakwood Wills.

Mayor’s celebration service in Amesbury

AMESBURY’S mayor Cllr Dr Monica Devendran and her consort have thanked those who attended the Mayor’s Celebration Service on Saturday, July 15.

His Majesty’s representative deputy lord lieutenant of Wiltshire, Dr Phil Harding released a special commemorative souvenir to mark the special occasion.

The 165 guests included members from the House of Lords, ministers of religion, the high sheriff of Wiltshire, the chairman of Wiltshire Council, representatives from the Royal British Legion, the Royal Air Force, Amesbury Dental Care, the Emergency Services, Amesbury Girls Brigade, Amesbury Hoppa Bus, Amesbury Green Fingers Community Garden, representatives from businesses in Amesbury such as Tandoori Nights, Betty Supermarket and the Murco Fuel Station, as well the the headteacher of Christ the King School and residents of Amesbury.

Amesbury Town councillors: Cllr Crook, Cllr Swindlehurst, Cllr Strange, Cllr Mitchell, Cllr Hedge, Cllr Hagger, Cllr Knight, past mayors and Wendy Bown the town clerk, were also present, alongside mayors and their consorts from other Wiltshire towns and cities.

The Mayor’s chosen charity for the occasion was The Friends of the Church.

Tony celebrates his 101st birthday among friends

THE SALISBURY air is good for Tony Broughton who celebrated his 101st birthday on June 25.

Tony spent his childhood in Muswell Hill, London and later worked at the Bank of England before joining the Royal Navy during the war years where he was involved in escorting Atlantic convoys.

Tony returned to civilian life in 1948 and resumed work at the Bank of England before moving to Amesbury and then Salisbury in the 1970s.

Tony celebrated his birthday with family and then with a group of friends from Salisbury Catenians who also celebrated 50 years since he joined the association, whose motto is ‘Friendship in Faith’.

Tony keeps up to date with world affairs and is regularly visited by his six children and 17 grandchildren – not forgetting the great grandchildren.

Congratulations on a long and happy life.

For further information on Salisbury Catenians, visit: www.salisburycatenians.org

Crow killed in catapult attack in street

A CROW died after being shot with a catapult in a Salisbury street.

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after the incident, in Norfolk Road.

They said the bird was ‘fatally injured’ some time between 1pm and 3.20pm on Friday, June 23.

“Two boys were seen in the area that we would like to speak to,” a Salisbury Police spokesperson said.

“One was wearing a white t-shirt, black shorts and black trainers, the other was wearing a black t-shirt, grey shorts and

white trainers. Both had light coloured hair.”

Anyone who can help with the investigation should contact

Norfolk Road in Salisbury Picture: Google

police on 101, quoting reference number 54230066260, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Tony Broughton, moved to Amesbury and then Salisbury in the 1970s. He celebrated with his six children, 17 grandchildren and his great granchildren

Smiles all round as community brave the rain for hospital open day

ON Saturday, 22nd July, Salisbury District Hospital opened its doors to the local community.

More than 700 people braved the rain to have a fun-packed walk around the hospital site. Visitors had the opportunity to view the new surgical robot, have a go on the life-like simulation dummy, and

understand more about bones, joints and radiography.

Children were able to take their favourite toy for a health check, and all visitors could view the new ward build, talk with the emergency services, including the Air Ambulance, and learn more about how the hospital manages waste, maintains the site and reduces

emissions.

Melanie Whitfield, chief people officer, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome our community onto the hospital site, show how our hospital functions and introduce the amazing teams who come

together every day to deliver outstanding care.

“The smiles and buzz across the site were terrific, as everyone, staff and visitors alike, were having a good time, despite some rather tricky wet weather conditions.”

Exeter Street underpass to get a refresh this summer

A GROUP of local young people from Splash Wiltshire, supported by local artist Fred Fieber will be creating a colourful mural in the Exeter Street underpass this summer.

Young people have come together to co-design the mural which will feature wildlife that is found in and around the River Avon. The two-day project will be the second of its kind completed in Salisbury by Splash Wiltshire. The first being the music icons piece near The Friary, which was completed in 2016.

The young people, supported by staff and volunteers from Splash, will help draw and paint the mural in a bid to lighten and brighten the underpass.

The Splash project has been

supported by Salisbury Area Board and Salisbury City Council however, the team are also reaching out to local shops and suppliers for any donations of materials and resources such

as paint brushes, paint trays, protective gloves, paint and dust sheets.

Splash worker Rachel said: “This is a real community project and it would be

wonderful to get local businesses involved in any way that we can.”

Splash has been supporting Wiltshire’s young people for nearly 35 years and forms part of Youth Action Wiltshire, the ‘Youth Arm’ of Wiltshire charity Community First.

Chief executive Lynn Gibson said: “We are really excited to be undertaking this community project once again in Salisbury.

“The benefits to those that are involved can and often are life-changing giving them the chance to make lasting friendships, build confidence and to believe in themselves.”

Anyone that can help or would like to find out more should email

info@splash-wiltshire.org.uk or call 01380 351364.

Above: Open day highlights included the toy health checkup

Left: the escue services.met the local community

Credit: Inez Szczepanska

Splash Wilthire previosuly painted murals of music icons near The Friary in 2016

New two-classroom block plans

PLANS for a new, eight-classroom teaching block at a Salisbury school have been submitted.

The scheme would see the three-storey teaching block built on land to the rear of the Bishopgate building at Bishop Wordsworth’s School, in Exeter Street, visible from Friary Lane.

It would replace two temporary classroom structures currently in the space, with one moved and used during building work, to be removed once the new block is completed.

“The application site is located adjacent to Friary Lane and currently consists of two temporary mobile classroom units,” the plan said.

“The site is out of the view of the cathedral and is located outside, but adjacent to, the Conservation Area.”

It said the temporary classrooms currently in use are ‘beyond their life cycle’.

“The new classroom block will be accessed via the walkway through Bishopgate as previously used for the mobiles,” it went on.

“The proposal will consist of eight classrooms over the three floors, all accessed via a lift in addition to two stairways for fire compartmental safety.

“The proposed new classroom block will also provide a large toilet facility and disabled WC on the ground floor, in addition to ample office and storage space.”

Designed by Peter Smith Associates Architects, the application says the building had been ‘carefully considered to ensure there is no impact on the adjacent properties’.

“The adjacent properties on Friary Lane consist of a four-storey residential duplex apartment block to the left along the street scene to the proposed new classroom block, which is approximately 11m in height, and to the right along the street scene there are two-storey semi-detached dwellings approximately 9m in height.”

The plans come after a previous application to extend the use of the

temporary classrooms was granted earlier this year.

For more details on the plans, and to comment, log on to www.wiltshire.gov.uk and search for application reference PL/2023/03504.

Approval for £billion Stonehenge roads plan - including tunnel

CONTROVERSIAL billionpound plans to transform the roads network around Stonehenge have been approved – with campaigners branding the decision ‘disgraceful’.

A long-running dispute over the scheme – which includes a two-mile tunnel beneath the World Heritage Site – came to an end on Friday, July 14, when the decision was announced.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper (Con, Forest of Dean) gave the proposals, which will revamp and eight-mile stretch of the A303, the green light after a series of consultations and legal challenges.

Initially approved in 2020, the decision was quashed by the High Court after a legal challenge, and had to be redetermined.

A 12-month process has now ended in the approval of a DCO (Development Consent Order), announced by the Government and National Highways.

The decision has been welcomed by National Highways, who said it would ‘help to unlock congestion and transform journeys for millions of people using the A303 between the South East and South West’.

Chief executive, Nick Harris, said: “The A303 Stonehenge scheme is part of the biggest investment in our road network for a generation, and I’m really pleased the project has been given the green light by the Secretary of State for Transport – a decision which will enable us to progress this transformational scheme and deliver the planned benefits.

“The decision follows a lot of work on a comprehensive year-long process to reassess our Development Consent Order, looking in detail at possible alternatives, also including cumulative carbon and heritage issues.

“It means we’re now a step closer to solving the longstanding issues of congestion and delays on the existing A303, improving journeys for all our customers and bringing much-need relief to local communities.

“The investment, along with other improvements along the A303, will help to boost the South West economy, improve journey reliability, remove the sight and sound of traffic from this very busy road and return one of our most important World Heritage Sites to

something like its original setting.”

The A303 surrounding Stonehenge is a notorious traffic hotspot for residents and those travelling through the area.

National Highways said the plans aim to tackle the issues, with measures including:

* eight miles of free-flowing, high-quality dual carriageway between Amesbury and Berwick Down

* a tunnel at least two miles long underneath the World Heritage Site, closely following the existing A303 route, but a

further 50 metres away from the Stonehenge monument, avoiding important archaeological sites, and avoiding intrusion on the view of the setting sun from the stones during the winter solstice

* a new bypass to the north of the village of Winterbourne Stoke

* junctions with the A345 and A360 either side of the World Heritage Site

Derek Parody, National Highways’ project director for the A303 Stonehenge scheme, added: “It is a scheme objective to conserve and enhance the World Heritage Site and this is being achieved through close collaborative working with heritage groups, including English Heritage, National Trust, Historic England and the independent A303 Scientific Committee.

“The scheme will not only sustain the Outstanding Universal Value of the Stonehenge landscape, it will also have a beneficial effect, and extensive archaeological studies and assessments have been

The scheme will see the A303 developed across the region

undertaken to provide evidence of the benefits that the scheme will deliver for the World Heritage Site.

“The decision represents a major milestone, not only for us as the project team but for all those who have supported this project over a number of years; our stakeholders, the heritage bodies, local and regional businesses and indeed local communities.

“We’re currently analysing the detailed changes within the Development Consent Order and assessing timescales but we anticipate being able to start preparatory work in 2024.”

There is now a six-week period in which parties can lodge an intention to legally challenge the decision.

In the meantime, National Highways said it will be renewing its plans to prepare for the scheme.

Last year, the company awarded the main works contract to the MORE joint venture – comprising FCC Construcción, WeBuild and BeMo Tunnelling – to deliver the £1.25 billion tunnel and main construction.

Costain and Mott MacDonald will be operating as the

company’s Delivery Assurance Partner, providing technical and construction management expertise.

The construction phase is set to take five years to complete.

But campaign group The Stonehenge Alliance said it was ‘appalled’ by the decision.

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

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

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

However, National Highways said ahead of the main work, Wessex Archaeology will carry

out archaeological mitigation work.

And Cllr Caroline Thomas, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for transport, welcomed the decision.

She said: “We’re delighted that consent has been granted once again for the A303 Stonehenge project and it can now move forward.

“This huge infrastructure project represents a significant investment in Wiltshire that will boost the economy of both our county and the wider region, unlocking jobs and investment.

“Along with the construction, there will also be comprehensive programme of archaeological mitigation, which will enhance our understanding of the World Heritage Site.

“We can now look forward to construction starting and unlocking all the benefits the scheme will bring both to Wiltshire communities and the wider south-west region.”

David Tucker, Federation of

Your comments

Small Businesses transport chair, said the decision meant a boost for business in the region.

“Upgrading the single carriageway sections of the A303 is key to supporting the south-west economy, particularly as the only alternative route via the M4 and M5 into the region is already heavily used,” he said.

“Investment in improving key links on the country’s A roads is a positive and vital way to support our local regional economies.”

Rachael Webb, Wiltshire Team Leader for Natural England, added: “We’ve worked with National Highways to get some really great outcomes for wildlife from the A303 Stonehenge scheme. The verges and embankments will make for a flower-rich, six-mile long, butterfly highway and large areas of species-rich chalk grassland will be created.”

A series of public events are set to be announced, giving residents the chance to find out more about the scheme.

Darren Davies: “£1 billion on a pointless bit of road. You could argue a £500k fence/screen would be a cheaper option, especially when most of us are going through a cost of living crisis!”

Samantha Wright: “I think the biggest issue is that the build up of traffic during the summer months forces traffic to disperse along other routes, causing more local traffic issues.”

Clare Chamberlain: “It’s been needed for so long now and in this day and age pretty sure they will get it to blend in as much as possible and re-plant with trees etc to keep the wildlife alive.”

Peter Eve: “An appalling misuse of public money. Over 30 years ago a member of the public proposed an alternative scheme to re-route the A303 from east of Amesbury to the south to meet the A36 and take them across the Woodford Valley.”

Blue plaque plan at infirmary to honour Marina’s pioneering work

PLANS for a blue plaque honouring the pioneering work of a Salisbury woman have been submitted.

A bid to install the tribute at the former general infirmary in Fisherton Street would honour Marina Seabright, who was influential in developing techniques for analysing chromosomes.

She worked at Salisbury Infirmary, now Pembroke House, in the 1960s and 70s.

Now, the Salisbury Civic Society and the Soroptomists of Salisbury are applying for permission to install the plaque in her honour.

Born in 1922, Dr Seabright hailed from Calabria in Italy, and studied medicine at Palermo in Sicily.

She married Harold Seabright, an English sub lieutenant in the Royal Navy volunteer reserves, with the couple eventually settling in Ringwood, Hampshire.

Marina first intended to

continue her medical studies at the University of Bristol, however her application was unsuccessful.

Instead, in 1947, she began working in pathology at Salisbury General Infirmary.

She is best known for her work in the field of cytogenetics.

In 1967, she had a chance scientific discovery which was initially dismissed as a mere artifact but, several years later, after revisiting the technique and conducting further investigations, she developed the hugely influential trypsin G-banding technique for chromosomes.

In the mid-1970s, Marina completed a PhD at the University of Southampton on the effects of X-ray radiation on

chromosomes and later became Consultant Scientist and Director of the Wessex Regional Cytogenetics unit based in Salisbury. She retired on December 31, 1987, the day her OBE was announced in the list of New Year’s Honours. She lived in Ringwood until her death in July 2007.

The planning application said: “The proposal does not involve any alterations to the building.

“It relates solely to the addition of a commemorative blue plaque, 33 cm in diameter, to the front elevation of the east wing of the building to commemorate Marina Seabright who was a pioneer in cytogenetics; something that was unusual for a woman at the

time.”

It adds: “The building is referred to in a heritage trail guide, called ‘Her Salisbury Footprint’, that celebrates notable women in Salisbury.

“The plaque will enhance the heritage asset in that it will provide information about its former use as an infirmary and information on some of the work carried out there.

“This will increase public understanding and appreciation of the building.

“The position of the plaque has been chosen so that it will be legible to passers-by.

“It will be opposite the pedestrian entrance to the grounds and will not impact upon the character of the frontage as a whole.”

For more details on the scheme, log on to www. wiltshire.gov.uk and search for planning application reference PL/2023/04490.

The blue plaque, pictured below inset, is set to be installed at the former general infirmary building in Fisherton Street, above left, in honour of Marina Seabright, above right

Store bid to hide unsightly bins

NEW stores are being installed in Salisbury in a bid to hide ‘unsightly’ commercial bins on city streets.

Work to install 20 Wiltshire Council bin stores is set to begin this week in a move designed to keep pedestrian areas clear of commercial bins, reduce smells in hotter weather and make the city more attractive for locals and visitors.

Businesses in Ox Row, Butcher Row and Fish Row can use the stores provided by the council to avoid stacking up unsightly bins on the streets.

The stores will be situated in New Canal and Queen Street.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for Street Scene, said: “It is businesses’ responsibility to ensure their bins are not left out on the highway, including pavements and walkways, as they are both unsightly and unwelcoming to locals and visitors alike.

“However, we recognise the challenges in those historic buildings where businesses

have no access to private waste storage areas, be that on their own property or the previously available Market Place bin stores.

“Storing bins on Salisbury’s narrow city streets is far from ideal, and so we’ve taken this pragmatic approach to help businesses

in the area by providing 20 bin stores for them to use, rather than using our enforcement powers.”

She said the council had liaised with businesses to address storage issues, frequency of collections and more in a bid to keep the bins hidden.

“We hope this approach will resolve the issues. However, we may use our enforcement powers in the future, if required - although this would be a last resort, following further discussions with the business,” Cllr Thomas added.

“Businesses in the area will still have to store waste such as cardboard on their own properties, but by providing this bin storage, we aim to create a better environment for residents, visitors and shoppers and, in turn, help to boost local businesses in the city.”

Businesses will be responsible for keeping their bin stores clean, the council said.

New bin stores will help stores in the New Canal area

In brief

CULVER STREET DEATH

The woman found unresponsive in a tent in Culver Street Car Park, Salisbury on April 13, has been named and her cause of death revealed. An inquest into her death, which opened at Wiltshire and Swindon

Coroner’s Court, said that, despite receiving prompt attention by paramedics, Jolene McKenzie, 47, died from a multi-drug overdose.

SKATEPARK JAM

The postponed Tidworth Skatepark Jam will now take place Saturday, August 19, from 12-4pm. The afternoon will feature music, rider demonstrations, competitions and prizes. Skate, BMX and scooter are all welcome.

BAKERY OPENS

Wenzel’s The Bakers officially opened on Saturday, July 22. Based on the Southampton Road Retail Park, the chain will sell freshly-baked pastries, cakes and sandwiches. The chain of bakeries started in London and now has over 100 stores nationwide. Customers can buy discounted unsold food from the bakery using the Too Good To Go app.

ARUNDELLS RECEIVES TRIPADVISOR AWARD

Arundells has been presented the coveted TripAdvisor 2023 Travellers’ Choice Award. The award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great Traveller reviews on TripAdvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10% of all listings on TripAdvisor globally.

CREAM TEAS BY THE RIVER IN AID OF ST GEORGE’S CHURCH, DAMERHAM

Every Sunday in August 2pm - 4.30pm

Damerham Village Hall SP6 3HN

New Forest has the best weather for enjoying a campervan holiday

THE NEW Forest National Park promises the best weather in the UK for a campervan holiday, according to new research.

Staycations are a popular way to explore the beauty that the UK has to offer, however, we all know the British weather can sometimes be a little temperamental.

So which UK holiday destinations have the best chance of blue skies and a warmer climate this summer?

A brand new study by Select Van Leasing reveals that the New Forest National Park tied with South Downs National Park in first place as the best campervan holiday spot for guaranteed good weather, with a score of 16.5/20.

The two destinations have an average temperature of 11.1°C and average rainfall of 779mm, making for comfortable weather to explore everything the nature spots have to offer.

A number of factors were involved in deciding which parks offered the best experiences:

● The total number of campsites (in and around the National Park)

● The number of sites that allow campervans (in and around the National Park)

● The most expensive campervan site price per

night (within 10 miles of National Park)

● The cheapest campervan site price per night (within 10 miles of National Park)

● The average campervan site price per night (within 10 miles of National Park)

● The monthly searches for campervan sites in National Parks

● The number of Instagram hashtags for campervan sites in National Parks

● The average temperature for campervan sites in National Parks

● The average rainfall rate for for sites in National Parks.

To determine the scoring, the team used a normalising formula, which looked at an entire category of data (the National Parks with the most campervanfriendly sites) and scored the data relative to the highest and lowest numbers available.

However, although the park was also one of the most Instagrammed campervan spots and the most searched-for, it failed to make the best, most campervan-friendly, best rated or budget frieldy lists.

www.selectcarleasing.co.uk/ van-leasing/news/article/ uk-campervan-holiday-indexbest-places-to-visit-van-life

Summer holiday programme will go ahead after firm ceases trading

DOZENS of activity camps will take place in Wiltshire this summer - after a provider went out of business, putting a council scheme at risk.

Wiltshire Council has confirmed the summer FUEL programme will operate, depite previous provider - Learn By Design - ceasing trading.

Learn By Design informed the council of the change in May, with the council promptly requesting other providers to get in touch in a bid to save events and activities for young people this summer.

Now, it has announced 16 organisations will be running the summer programme, providing 26 activity camps throughout the county from the end of this month (July).

The camps will include a range of activities and nutritious meals for children from eligible families.

FUEL (Food Unity, Energy, Laughter) is a county-wide programme funded by the Department for Education to help young people who are eligible for benefits related free school meals have free access to activities and healthy food

The FUEL scheme runs through the summer holidays

during the school holidays.

The FUEL programme in Wiltshire has provided thousands of children with activities and nutritious meals during school holidays.

Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, cabinet member for public health, said: “Although we were hopeful that some organisations would step up to run this programme, we are absolutely delighted with the response we have received.

“Everyone involved with this programme knows just how it important it is to the families who use it, and we’re looking

Arrests after fight in street

forward to working with new partners to put on a range of fun activities over the summer holiday throughout the county.”

And Cllr Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children’s

services, added: “This programme provides such valuable support to families and I’d like to thank all involved for working so hard to ensure it can take place this summer.

“I’ve been lucky to attend some sessions and they’re always fun and full of energy. So even though some of the sessions might be a little different than before, I know the children will have a great time.”

Discussions about the format of future programmes will be discussed in due course, the council said.

For more information, including details on how to book places, locations, dates, times and who is running the sessions, log on to www. wiltshire.gov.uk/FUELprogramme.

POLICE are appealing for information after a fight broke out in a Salisbury street.

The incident happened in North Street, Wilton, above, at around 4pm on Tuesday, July 18.

A Wiltshire Police

spokesperson said a teenager and a woman in her 30s were arrested on suspicion of affray.

They’ve both since been released on bail, they added.

Anyone who saw what happened should contact police on 101, reference 54230075585.

“Politicising a key issue for local residents”

IN last week’s Salisbury Journal, with remarkable hypocrisy, city councillor and Conservative Party leader Eleanor Wills, accused the current administration of “…a despicable act of politicising a key issue for local residents and businesses alike…” in reference to a full council decision to reject Wiltshire Council’s proposals to install new ‘bin stores’ in the city. I hasten to add, Conservative councillors were among the significant majority of councillors voting in favour of the decision.

With considerable irony, this outburst follows hard on the heels of last week’s media fiasco initiated and escalated to the level of national media by Cllr Wills, over a decision made by Salisbury City Council Environment and Climate Committee. In accordance with the Council Environment and Climate Policy, which has cross party assent, a measure intended to significantly reduce water consumption and promote biodiversity by ceasing to continue the use of floral displays (notably hanging baskets) in the Market Square, was passed by the committee.

Three days later, after the issue of the hanging baskets had been given an airing on national TV courtesy of Cllr Wills, the

News

Cllr John

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

following statement appeared on her Twitter account (06.07.23) “The flower-hating Left wants to destroy Salisbury - me @Telegraph. Thankyou to @mutazamd for the opportunity to set out the dangers Left-wing leaders at all levels pose to our great nation.” To use her own words, this sounds remarkably like “…a despicable act of politicising a key issue for local residents and businesses alike.”

I had several conversations with friends around “our great nation” on the topic who were surprised to hear that local cafés, pubs and restaurants located around the Market Square were not ‘banned’ from decorating their premises with hanging baskets if they so desired. In her eagerness to score political

points, Cllr Wills either failed to understand, or chose to ignore, that the ‘hanging baskets’ decision is intended to ensure our council acts in accordance with an agreed policy.

She told BBC Wiltshire Radio her position on the matter was about, “saying on behalf of the people that I represent – wrong decision” (08.07.23). As we discovered in our recent extremely costly city poll the people Cllr Wills represents may only amount to 3% of the population of Salisbury.

Returning to the other local issue of ‘bin stores’, the Cllr criticised the Full Council decision not to support ‘sensible plans’ from Wiltshire Council, which have ultimately been imposed anyway (not very democratic!), “despite the outcry on social media.”

Dare I say, social media doesn’t always provide a knowledgeable and balanced perspective on current issues? It so happens the controversial bin storage has not been located in the Market Square or alongside the Guildhall which was the main concern. Time will tell if this was a good decision.

Anyway, time to move on, water my hanging basket and enjoy a pub lunch with family and friends before continuing to plot the next steps in the destruction of the city!

Drugs and cash seized in police raids

ALMOST 40 arrests were made and more than £60,000 in cash seized during a police operation targeting organised crime gangs (OCGs) in Wiltshire.

The final results for Operation Scorpion – which fed into Operation Mille, a nationally coordinated operation to conduct 1,000 warrants to disrupt OCGs – were released last week.

Wiltshire Police said the results demonstrated the significant impact that the Force is having in disrupting drug lines, taking out key sources of revenue for local OCGs and showing that there is no place for drugs in Swindon or across the county.

The operation was particularly targeting the cultivation of cannabis, often a key source of illicit income for OCGs involved in other serious

and organised crime, such as Class A drug dealing and the exploitation of vulnerable people through modern slavery, the force said.

Across the period, Wiltshire Police executed 26 warrants, arrested 39 people, charged 10 people, seized 111.86kg of cannabis, seized 1.32kg of cocaine and seized £63,195 in cash.

Det Supt Ben Mant said: “The perception that cannabis cultivation and the smoking of it is victimless couldn’t be further from the truth.

“Drug trafficking is a major source of revenue for organised crime gangs, funding other elements of serious and organised crime such as firearms and modern slavery.

“It’s for that reason that warrants, arrests and charges relating to cannabis cultivation

have a much wider disruptive impact on organised criminal activity.

“These disruptions and warrants successfully disrupted a significant amount of criminal activity, including a single haul of more than 100kg of cannabis seized from a gang operating from Swindon and Yorkshire.

“The intelligence gathered from the operation also enable us to build up a greater picture of the illegal activity happening across our county and inform where we can target our future operational activity.”

Operation Scorpion is a collaboration between five police forces in the South West region, alongside their respective offices of Police and Crime Commissioners, the British Transport Police, South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and the charity,

CrimeStoppers.

This partnership combines resources to tackle drug supply across the region and make the South West a hostile environment for drugs.

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson, said: “Communities are destroyed by drug-related crime and anti-social behaviour, not to mention the impact this has on vulnerable people who end up being used and intimidated by criminal gangs.

“Listening to residents’ concerns was key in the strategic focus in my police and crime plan for Wiltshire Police and officers will continue to disrupt drug supplies, robustly deal with criminals and rid our streets of drugs.”

Report crimes or suspicious behaviour to police on 101 or via www.wiltshire.police.uk

Wealthy Tory MP wants rules changed to favour those who shoot for sport

A WEALTHY Tory backing those who hunt birds for sport, what a shock, not! Let’s be clear, Danny Kruger MP, says he has no personal interest in calling for his own government to reverse a licensing change that he says ‘inconveniences’ those in his constituency who rely on shoots.

And perhaps he does have all their best wishes at heart. But it’s hard, isn’t it, to see this as anything other than a ‘let the rich hunt and shoot what they will’ shtick?

I do feel sorry for those for whom this licensing change means a loss of income or their job, that is terrible for anyone, but there is so much in his letter (on his website) that highlights how ridiculous shooting actually is, that it’s hard to know where to start.

Danny says its the timing of the change, rather than the change itself, which requires those wanting to shoot birds on or near protected wildlife sites to apply for a special license.

Trouble is, it’s taking too long. There are birds out there remaining un-shot and that just will not do.

I want to state again, I have the up-most sympathy for those whose livelihood will be negatively affected by all this.

Danny’s reasoning seems to consist of listening to his friends. He refers us to research, which is hardly unbiased and rails against the ‘sentimentalist lobby’ – oh, Danny, such disappointing rhetoric.

He mentions the ‘rich’ social history of the shoots, which are almost 100 years old. Funny that word ‘social’ when it comes to field sports. Some have been banned, others not. Social or society?

A debate for another time.

Fact of the fortnight...

WE’VE all marvelled at the tailoring of expensive suits, be it watching a King, a Prime Minister, or a well-groomed celebrity on television.

But what is the most expensive suit in the world?

Well, it is not one you could have made on Saville Row, that’s for sure.

No, you would be better off heading to the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, for the most expensive known suit in the world is the spacesuit worn by NASA astronauts.

Let’s be honest, when we’re looking for a nice suit, tackling the effects of sun radiation, the vacuum of space and fasttraveling space particles are not high on our list of considerations - and the tech involved in protecting the wearer from such things comes at a substantial price.

So how much do they cost?

Well, in 1974, NASA revealed a spacesuit cost between $15-22 million, which comes out to about $83m-122m today (between around

He states he wants to do right by soldiers and veterans, which is very admirable, but I wonder how many of the regular rank and file go on shoots?

But what concerns me the most is what the MP does not say. He doesn’t seem to flinch when he states: ‘... with birds paid for and either delivered or on their way from suppliers’.

There is a moment of remorse, I think, when he worries that the ‘supplied’ birds will grow so fat in their ‘cages’ that they might need to be culled without being let out to be shot.

The waste!

£64m to £95m).

But even that is nothing when compared to the estimated cost of the latest spacesuit, currently being developed, which stands at around $1 billion per outfit (more than £779m). That’s one outfit you would certainly save for Sunday best...

Is this really credible in this day and age? That we grow and distribute birds for the sole reason of allowing people to then shoot them? Some, I hear, are even imported, or perhaps Brexit has put a stop to that, maybe Danny can let us know?

NAME WITHHELD Salisbury

Local plan blues

HAVING read so many local plan documents over the years, and seen subsequent developments I can say with some degree of certainty that a number of things will happen.

First, everyone will object to whichever part of the plan suggests building houses next to, near, on, or within view of where they live.

Second, those houses will be built, they will be uniform, characterless, of poor quality, too dense, soulless enclaves that will be indistinguishable from every other development being cut and pasted onto the edges and ends of towns all over the region.

Third, for the quality and size they will be massively overpriced. Fourth, the infrastructure and facilities will be inadequate.

Amesbury

Suppliers of quality

11 strange house superstitions

THE SQUEAKY floorboard that can’t be fixed, that mystery switch that doesn’t do anything… all houses have their quirks, but some are actually built into the foundations.

Armishaws Removals have been unearthing some of the weirdest home superstitions.

Which witch

For centuries, European housebuilders puzzled over the age-old problem: how to stop a witch coming down the chimney. Mummified cats, animals’ hearts pieced with iron nails, pots of urine... all manner of anti-witch totems were buried in the chimney or hearth to keep the pointy-hatted harridans away.

A ‘witch’s crook’ was another tactic, essentially building a bend in the chimney to stop them flying down it.

Triskaidekaphobia

The fear of the number 13 is reflected throughout our homes. Many people won’t buy a house that is numbered 13 – 28% of British streets don’t have a number 13 (check your street), partly because on average, properties numbered 13 sell for 2% less than 11 and 15, so profit hungry developers simply avoid it. In New York, fewer than 5% of high-rises have a 13th floor.

Buy-day the 13th

It’s not just the house, it’s also the date. Fewer homes are sold on the 13th day of the month. While Fridays are normally one of the busier days of the week for completions, when Friday the 13th occurs, sales/completions drop by an average of 43%.

Stair-raising superstition

Builders in the Philippines are careful with the number of stairs, which are counted in threes, “Oro, plata, mata”, meaning, gold, silver and death. The superstition states, the topmost

step must not end in mata (death). It’s also unlucky for there to be 13 stairs.

Thank you

‘Topping out’ ceremonies began in Scandinavia where builders would celebrate reaching the top and finishing point of a house by hanging a bough to thank the forest and tree dwelling spirits for allowing the use of the wood. The tradition is still observed by trades such as masons, brickies and carpenters, even on buildings like skyscrapers.

Chinese numbers

In China, 8 is a lucky number and homes with 8 in the number (8, 18, 28, etc) tend to fetch a higher price. Buyers/sellers will often include 8 in transactions, whereas 4, 17, 19 and 53 are all considered unlucky, not great news if you were born on the 17/04/1953.

Chinese homes often had winding garden paths and curved roofs to confuse spirits who, presumably, can only travel in straight lines.

That’s the spirit

In parts of southern Asia, ‘spirit houses’ would be built close to homes to give dead spirits somewhere to live away from the main house (“Mum! Great-greatgreat-great-grandma’s walking around the garden again!”).

Buried wealth

In some cultures, coins were sometimes buried in the foundations or placed under the doorstep to encourage wealth.

Exit this way

Back in the Philippines, spirits were thought to hide in low, dark places, so special escape routes were built into basements to allow ghosts to leave.

Find more fascinating home facts at www.Armishaws.com/blog.

New Forest fungi could help to clean up environmental pollution

THE first UK study into using fungi to clean our rivers and streams of nutrient pollution is under way thanks to the New Forest National Park Authority and partners.

The New Forest is a special and internationally important area for fungi and is a stronghold for many rare and endangered species.

Scientists will be testing whether common fungi species’ natural ability to break down pollutants and clean up damaged ecosystems could be harnessed (a process called ‘mycoremediation’).

The £14,000 project, led by the National Park Authority (NPA), has secured funding from New Forest conservation charities – the New Forest Trust, and Friends of the New Forest – together with Natural England, and marks a collaboration with the Freshwater Habitats Trust and the Environment Agency to discover new ways to naturally combat water pollution.

The NPA’s head of environment and rural economy, Paul Walton, said: “It is all down to the fungi’s unique ability to decompose anything

and, from that, recycle nutrients.

“Because fungi have been around for an exceptionally long time, they have a remarkably diverse evolutionary history and have stored information in their DNA on how to break down and metabolise a huge array of organic matter including those which now act as pollutants.

“This power to turn large complex molecules into simpler, readily available forms from which they grow their fruiting

bodies can be observed everywhere, from crumbling logs in the woods to your own compost heaps at home.”

It is not the first time that fungi have been called upon to help the environment.

They have been incorporated into various schemes across the globe, from the breakdown of toxic sludge on beaches to removing E.coli from sewage.

At a time when the extinction rate for freshwater species is six times that of marine and

terrestrial species it is hoped the study could find new ways to reverse the decline in freshwater biodiversity.

The New Forest is one of the most exceptional areas for freshwater biodiversity in the UK.

It is home to our rarest freshwater species and encompasses some of the largest areas of designated land and sea for freshwater and marine wildlife.

It is hoped this new method could not only help protect rivers from pollutants but also the coastal areas where they join the sea.

The study focuses on areas with known water pollution issues for nitrogen and phosphate.

Filters are made from hessian sacks, containing woodchip and fungi sourced locally to the test sites.

Over the next year, water samples will be collected monthly at the private site near Lymington and tested for nutrient pollution.

Experts hope the final scientific report will lead to further research being conducted.

Chalk Stream Strategy Implementation Plan launched

CAMPAIGNERS are welcoming the news that the Chalk Stream strategy was launched on 15 June at a meeting in London attended by representatives from government, regulators and environmental groups.

The strategy, which aims to provide greater protection to the delicate environments of chalk streams and their catchments, is a huge boost to the region, through which a large number of the country’s chalk streams run.

Natural England has likened the UK’s chalk streams to rainforests and the Great Barrier

Reef, citing their importance for plant and animal life. The UK contains 85% of the world’s chalk streams, of which many are in the south of the country.

The implementation plan was published last year, by the Chalk Stream Restoration Group, supported by the government’s catchment-based approach initiative.

The plan emphasised that all chalk streams are designated as high-priority sites, placing a requirement on water companies to improve storm overflows near these locations as part of the government’s

Storm Overflow Discharge

Reduction Plan by 2035.

Additionally, all water resource regions reliant on chalk aquifers are now automatically considered water-stressed. It also addresses the impact of agricultural pollution and plans to review the effects of private sewerage systems.

At the launch, Natural England chair Tony Juniper, spoke of the “numerous threats” that the streams were facing.

The Chalk Stream Restoration Group’s Chalk Streams Strategy addressed pressures within the framework

– what the group defined as the “trinity of ecological health”, namely: water quantity, water quality and physical habitat quality, with the plan containing more than 30 recommendations relating to policy, regulation, investment and planning.

In the Gazette region, Wessex Rivers Trust has been working to restore around 3km of river habitat from Amesbury, through Lords Walk and upstream of the A303, towards Durrington.

The Trust says that this will benefit wildlife and reduce the risk of flooding.

Brown Birch Bolete mushrooms, of varying ages

Credit: Jean-Pol Grandmont

Rex the falcon offers his fans one last glimpse as peregrine season ends

AS THE peregrine season at the Salisbury Cathedral draws to a close, followers were able to catch one last glimpse of the cathedral’s famous avian residents before the live stream was shut down on 17 July.

In the previous two weeks, Rex (Orange ID ring VDR), the only juvenile male hatched on the tower this year, had been spotted on the South Tower Balcony parapet.

He and his two siblings have become fairly proficient hunters after some intensive training given by their parents over the Close.

Hundreds of visitors were able to witness some remarkable behaviour and see these amazing birds up close thanks to the RSPB Date with Nature team, who set up their telescopes on the west lawn throughout June.

In more recent weeks, the juveniles have been ranging beyond the Close in search of food, with the Water Meadows and the fields around Netherhampton being a popular spot.

Male peregrines generally stay close to where they fledge, so it is more likely to see more of Rex than Lily (Orange ID ring VHR) and Rose (Orange ID ring VRR) in the coming weeks.

Gary Price, clerk of works, who looks after the nestbox on the cathedral said:

“So far it looks to have been a textbook year. The chicks have pretty much stuck to their schedule. No-one crash landed when they fledged. The parents have been efficient and calm. We were sad when the fourth egg didn’t hatch, but other than that everything has gone like clockwork.”

The biggest challenge for the three young falcons will be making it through their first year. Less than a third of juveniles reach breeding age and according to the RSPB their lifespan is likely to be between

five and six years. However, an essay on the Natural History Museum website mentions one falcon that reached the ripe old age of 21-years-old.

One of the ways the cathedral team keeps track of its peregrines is via the coloured Darvic ring on their left leg, which bears their unique initials.

So far, the team has tracked four falcons that fledged from the cathedral: Peter (spotted in Hampshire), Aveline (spotted in Milton Keynes), Osmund

(spotted in Guernsey) and Flo, who was spotted in Hertford last year and nesting in Welwyn Garden City this year.

And there is exciting news to share from Hertfordshire. The team has been sent pictures of Flo’s chicks at their Shredded Wheat Silos nesting site in Welwyn Garden City.

Photographer Keith Garrett captured the two juveniles earlier this month, perched near their nest box and Flo at the same location. A new generation of

falcons that have flown the nest. The cathedral has an historic bond with peregrines. There were nine fully authenticated sightings between 1864 and 1953.

They disappeared from the Tower in 1953, returning in 2014 when a pair bred successfully on the south side tower balcony.

Since then, a total of 32 chicks (including one adopted orphan chick) have fledged from Salisbury Cathedral since 2014.

Left: Flo, who has nested in Welwyn Garden City; Right: Flo’s juveniles perched near the nest box

Credit: Keith Garrett

Above: Rex surveying his kingdom

Credit: Salisbury Cathedral

Report proves nature-based health projects save NHS time and money

Targeted green prescribing could save over £635 million per year

NATURE-BASED health and well-being programmes could save hundreds of millions of pounds each year and reduce society’s reliance on the NHS, according to a new report by The Wildlife Trusts.

A Natural Health Service: Improving Lives and Saving Money, found that green prescribing can save more in healthcare costs than the price of running a green prescribing scheme.

Green prescribing is an evidence-based pillar of social prescribing that harnesses the health, well-being, and social benefits of spending time in nature. It enables GPs and other health care practitioners to refer people to nature-based programmes to improve physical and mental health.

The new research, undertaken by global strategic environmental and engineering consulting company, Ricardo plc, and The Institute of Occupational Medicine Health, analysed five Wildlife Trusts programmes to see how they benefited the NHS.

If just one of these programmes was offered to everyone who was likely to take them up – estimated at 1.2 million people – it could result in annual cost savings of £635.6 million.

Wild at Heart by Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust is a social group that runs naturebased activities and helps people learn new skills. Analysis found healthcare cost savings of £38,646 of 82 participants over a year. For every £1 invested, there is £1.19 of additional benefit in terms of reduced costs to the NHS.

MyPlace by Lancashire Wildlife Trust helps people improve mental and physical health. Analysis found

healthcare cost savings of £7,024 and reduced employment-related costs due to mental health of £28,442. For every £1 invested, there is £2.16 of additional benefit in terms of reduced costs to the NHS.

Feed the Birds by Shropshire Wildlife Trust addresses social isolation and loneliness by linking individuals with volunteers who help them feed birds. Analysis found healthcare cost savings of £15,460 per year covering 57 people. For every £1 invested, there is £0.40 of additional benefit in terms of reduced costs to the NHS. Assuming all participants were fully engaged over the full 31-month duration, the accumulated benefits over this period are much higher, at around £102,440.

Nature for Health in Greater Manchester is part-run by Lancashire Wildlife Trust and harnesses the power of nature to improve mental health. Analysis found healthcare cost savings of £44,745. For every £1 invested, there is £0.18 to £0.93 of additional benefit in terms of reduced costs to the NHS.

Wild Health by Gwent Wildlife Trust provides opportunities for recreational, social, and work-based outdoor activities that benefit physical and emotional well-being.

Analysis found healthcare cost savings of £66,882, equating to £471 saving per participant. For every £1 invested, there is £0.58 to £1.10 of additional benefit in terms of reduced costs to the NHS.

Locally, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust runs a host of health and wellbeing programmes and events across Wiltshire and Swindon, including its Swindon Wellbeing Programme and Wild Transitions groups for Armed Forces veterans in Trowbridge.

Imogen Jackson, Wellbeing Programmes Leader of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust says: “Our Swindon Wellbeing Programme supports people living with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, offering a range of activities such as mindfulness in nature, practical conservation and nature inspired arts. Participants have reported reduced levels of stress and anxiety, and a heightened sense of belonging through their engagement with nature.

“Our Wild Transitions groups provide a support system for veterans transitioning back to civilian life. These groups offer a safe and understanding environment where they can bond over shared experiences while exploring the therapeutic benefits of nature. From

creating a forest garden to exploring the surrounding meadows and woodlands, these activities foster a sense of camaraderie and aid in the healing process.

“Both of these programmes demonstrate how green prescribing can significantly enhance individuals’ well-being and, ultimately, lead to substantial cost savings for the NHS.”

Dr Amir Khan, NHS doctor and vice-president of The Wildlife Trusts, says: “What excites me about this research is that it shows the potential of Wildlife Trusts programmes to work alongside and reduce reliance on NHS services.

Programmes that tackle some of the causes of preventable illnesses: social isolation that can lead to feelings of loneliness or depression, physical inactivity – which is linked to musculoskeletal problems, and a lack of skills or prospects leading to economic inactivity.

“The Wildlife Trusts’ programmes can shoulder some of the burden of ‘mainstream’ NHS services, and they should be available to all health professionals, to refer patients to, where appropriate.”

To increase access to green social prescribing projects and enable the NHS to benefit, The Wildlife Trusts are calling on the government to:

● Integrate green prescribing into community health and social care services everywhere

● Encourage shared investment from government departments working on housing, employment, community cohesion, transport and culture

● Provide support to help strengthen partnerships between local healthcare services and communityrooted organisations like Wildlife Trusts.

Credit: Penny Dixie

Salisbury conservation charity wants volunteers to join citizen science project

CONSERVATION charity

Plantlife is calling for volunteers to join a citizen science project that monitors the effect of pressures facing the countryside on wild plants.

Wild plants are the foundation of our habitats and ecosystems and underpin all life on earth.

The National Plant Monitoring Scheme (NPMS), launched in 2015, is unique and the biggest continuous plant monitoring scheme of its kind. In total, over 1000 volunteers have completed nearly 7000 plant surveys across different habitats in the UK, amassing over 200,000 individual records in that time. The data collected from the survey describes the abundance and diversity of plants and helps scientists to understand the health of different habitats.

The latest NPMS Annual Report cites 18,063 individual records in 2022, collected from 633 surveys representing 11 habitat types around the UK

The survey was designed and developed by Plantlife, the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI), the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) and the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (UKCEH).

Anyone interested in nature who can identify plants, or who is keen to learn, can take part. Last year, hundreds of people

participated in the training, mentoring and other learning sessions available. Survey participants are invited to select a survey square of semi-natural habitat near them and record specially selected, distinctive species that allow researchers to monitor

changes in habitat health. Within the scheme, there are now over 1,000 1 km squares that have been surveyed at least once.

Dr. Oliver Pescott, data analyst and plant ecologist, UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology said: “We know that wild plants are suffering from numerous threats posed by habitat loss, changes in land management and climate change. This unique, growing and impressive dataset is starting to allow us to investigate these impacts.

“The NPMS is part of an important jigsaw of wildlife surveys. Together, a broad coalition of wildlife conservation organisations is improving its knowledge of the wildlife and habitats around us, the challenges that confront them and what we can do to safeguard and restore our vitally important wild plant heritage.”

Dr. Rachel Murphy, volunteer manager, NPMS, said: “Longterm monitoring using a consistent methodology is incredibly important for enabling us to understand the health of our habitats and the drivers and processes impacting our landscapes. We are keen to encourage more volunteers to take part in the survey, especially in more remote regions including the Scottish Highlands and Islands, Northern Ireland and the east coast of England.”

Farmers urged to watch out for Colorado beetle

Funding applications open for high-growth agri-tech businesses

EARLIER this month, Defra announced the £5 million Farming Innovation Investor Partnership competition with Innovate UK.

Applications are now open and will remain open for six weeks until 30 August.

The beetle is a distinctive colour and poses a significant threat to potato crops

FARMERS – and gardeners – in Wiltshire and north Dorset are being urged to look out for Colorado beetles, an invasive species with the power to decimate entire potato crops.

The yellow and black pests have been spotted at an undisclosed location in the neighbouring county of Hampshire, following an unrelated outbreak of the insect in Kent.

The sighting was confirmed following a report from a member of the public. The Animal and Plant Health Agency removed the beetle and will be conducting surveys in gardens, potato crops and land around the finding to ensure there are no other Colorado beetles present.

If not eradicated, Colorado beetles are a significant threat to potato crops. The adult beetles and larvae feed on the foliage of potato and other plants in the nightshade family and can completely strip them of their leaves if they are left uncontrolled. However, they are not a threat to human or animal health, said the APHA.

The beetle is bright yellow or orange with black stripes and is usually between 8.5-11.5mm in length and 3mm in width. Its larvae are a reddish brown in colour, round and globular, and up to 15mm in length.

If you spot a Colorado beetle call 0300 1000 313 or email planthealth.info@apha.gov.uk

The Farming Innovation Investor Partnership is aimed at small and medium sized agri-tech businesses that are developing innovative solutions and technologies that make farming more productive, sustainable and resilient. The competition combines grant funding with private investment.

Defra will award grant funding for experimental development projects, for example, a pilot or prototype of an innovative technology that is close to the market with demonstrable benefits to farmers, growers and foresters in England.

Private investment will be provided through Innovate UK’s Investor Partner Pool which comprises around 80 investors with the expertise and appetite to invest in innovative agri-tech businesses. Private investment

can be used to support wider company growth and scale ambitions outside of the aligned project.

To be eligible, projects costs must be between £750,000 and £3m and last 18 months. They must start by 1 April, 2024, and demonstrate benefits to farmers and growers in England, and must be led by a sole UKregistered micro/small or medium business. Defra will fund between 45% and 35% of eligible project costs, depending on business size.

Aligned private investment must be at least twice the amount of the grant requested to complete the project and support the company to grow and scale. Applications must meet the eligibility criteria and be submitted through Innovate UK’s Innovation Funding Service before 11am on 30 August.

Detailed guidance can be found in Innovate UK’s competition documents: https://apply-forinnovation-funding.service.gov. uk/competition/1640/overview/ da96b78e-141e-41f2-8602d27bcc36555c?

Credit: Scott Bauer, USDA ARS

NFU Mutual launches video raising sepsis awareness for at risk farmers

A VIDEO raising awareness of the dangers of sepsis and its symptoms among farming communities has been launched by NFU Mutual and The UK Sepsis Trust.

The video follows the legacy of Hannah Brown, a 26-year old Cumbrian livestock farmer, who tragically passed away on 26 March 2021, two days after developing sepsis. On average, five people lose their lives because of sepsis every hour in the UK, with farmers at an increased risk due to the nature of their work.

NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist, Hannah Binns, and founder of the UK Sepsis Trust, Dr Ron Daniels BEM, are featured discussing farming scenarios where farmers, employees and family members could cut, fall or injure themselves, putting themselves at risk.

Sepsis is also commonly referred to as blood poisoning. It is the immune system’s overreaction to an infection or injury and if it isn’t treated immediately, it can result in organ failure and death.

NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist, Hannah Binns, said: “Farmers are fantastic at looking after the welfare of their animals and stock, but less so when it comes to their own health, having a tendency to crack on, especially during busy periods.

“However, the very nature of farming means farmers can be more prone to grazes, cuts, falls and injuries that can become infected and potentially lead to sepsis.

“Living and working in rural and often isolated settings means that farmers cannot always get medical attention as quickly as they should.

“This video highlights the real risks of contracting sepsis on a farm. By watching

it, we hope farmers learn important information that can potentially save lives and livelihoods.

“I’m really proud that the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust is supporting The UK Sepsis Trust’s important work to raise awareness of the condition within the farming community.”

Dr Ron Daniels BEM, founder and joint CEO of The UK Sepsis Trust, added: “Here at The UK Sepsis Trust we’re incredibly grateful for the generous support of the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust, which has enabled us to produce this life-saving film.

“While anyone can get sepsis at any time, and it’s not exclusively obtained through infected cuts and scrapes, farmers are one of the key demographics that our

charity wanted to help educate following the tragic death of Hannah Brown.

“I hope that this new film will help further Hannah’s life-saving legacy, and ensure the farming community doesn’t have to experience any more unimaginable tragedies caused by preventable deaths from sepsis.”

The video forms part of the £70,000 donated to UKST by the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust in 2022 to support the charity’s work in raising awareness of the risks of sepsis within the rural community.

Farmers can watch the video at: https:// www.nfumutual.co.uk/news-and-stories/ nfu-mutual-announces-partnership-with-uksepsis-trust/

values contninue to rise and prime land is still highly sought after, says latest market report

PROPERTY company Carter

Jonas has released Q2 figures that reveal growth in average farmland values accelerated this year.

Arable land prices, on average, have increased over the past three years by 12.8% with current values remaining just below the 2016 peak (although on track to surpass

those levels), while pasture land has increased in the same period by 14.2%.

Q1 figures reveal that the average price for arable land (across England and Wales) reached £9,517/acre, with average pasture land reaching £7,683/acre.

The picture was much the same for prime arable land, with

growth over the 12 months to Q2 2023, increasing values by 6.2% to £11,183/acre.

Prime pasture land increased over the same period by 5.8% to reach £9,139/acre.

Over a three-year period, prime arable land has increased 13.4% and prime pasture by 15%.

Farmland continues to be sought after and the market looks set to stay buoyant for the rest of the year.

Farmland

Outdoor cinema, live music and more – summer at the Cathedral

SALISBURY Cathedral and the Close will be buzzing during the summer months with a programme of outdoor film shows, music from Father Willis (our famous organ) and the Swing Unlimited Big Band, plus trails and crafts for all the family to enjoy.

Family activities in July and August

If you haven’t already visited the cathedral’s 2023 art exhibition, To Be Free, there’s still plenty of opportunity.

The exhibition, which features internationally known artists Cornelia Parker, Yinka Shonibare, Mona Hatoum and Ai Weiwei, plus painter Lucy Jones’ large canvases and American Indian artist Jeffrey Gibson’s textile work, They Want to Be Free 2021, is open until 17 September.

Running alongside the exhibition are a series of activities framed around the idea of freedom:

Free as A Bird: these clay craft sessions are an hour long and encourage those taking part to think about what freedom means to them before creating a clay model of hands holding their own unique symbol of freedom. Open to adults and children alike, there are five sessions a day, running hourly between 9.30am and 2.30pm on Tuesday, 1st and Wednesday, 2nd August, and Tuesday, 8th and Wednesday, 9th August.

Tickets £4 per person via the cathedral website.

The Childrens’ Trail: this summer, the trail explores the idea of freedom through birds. Birds are free to fly where they wish and are often used by the Church to talk about peace, salvation and spirituality.

Youngsters are encouraged to hunt out bird images in stone, textiles and in stained glass in the cathedral – and to look for their wild counterparts outside

in the Cathedral Close.

The Children’s Trail is now available free with cathedral admission until Sunday, 17th September. Ask a cathedral guide for your copy when you enter.

August 9

Food for the mind. On Wednesday, 9th August at 7.15pm Baroness Hale of Richmond DBE will discuss the legacy of Magna Carta. An academic lawyer, law reformer and judge, Lady Hale was the United Kingdom’s first female Law Lord. In 2019, she made headlines around the world with the ruling that Boris Johnson’s prorogation of parliament was unlawful.

A pioneering reformer in the areas of domestic violence, divorce, mental health and equality, Lady Hale has always taken an interest in religion and the law having written and spoken on the subject many times. Tickets for The Legacy of Magna Carta: A Lecture by Baroness Hale can be purchased via the cathedral.

August 12

On Saturday, 12th August, the Organ Prom returns with director of music David Halls

and assistant director of music John Challenger at the helm.

Enjoy popular classics ranging from the Dan Coates’ arrangement of the James Bond Medley to music fit for kings and queens, including William Walton’s Coronation March: Crown Imperial (played at George VI coronation in 1937), Elgar’s Nimrod (played before the Queen’s Coronation Service in 1953), Debbie Wiseman’s lovely Elizabeth Remembered (written to celebrate the Queen’s life) and Iain Farrington’s Voices of the World (written for King Charles’ Coronation on 6 May this year).

Dress up to promenade, enjoy a glass of Pimm’s in the nave, explore the cathedral building, see behind-the-scenes via the big screen organ loft relay and bask informally in the sounds of our famous Father Willis organ. Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

Tickets £10 for adults, £5 for children available. Visitors with access requirements should contact the Cathedral box office to book by phone, email or in person from Monday to Friday between 9:30am and 4pm

August 13

The following day (Sunday, 13th August) dance and picnic to toe-tapping tunes from the Swing Unlimited Big Band on the cathedral’s west front. Bring your own food and drink or visit one of the cathedral’s two eateries – The Bell Tower Tearooms and the Refectory restaurant. Parking is available in the Close and the music starts at 1pm.

August 24-27

August is also a time to enjoy a heady blend of heritage, nature and cinema in the Cathedral Close.

There will be four screenings across the Bank Holiday weekend and tickets are likely to go fast – Top Gun and Dirty Dancing are already sold out, but if you are quick you might still get tickets for Mamma Mia! at 8.45pm on Saturday, 26th August and a sing-along The Greatest Showman at 8.45pm Sunday, 27th August.

Tickets: Adult £15.50, children £9.50, plus booking fee. https://www.adventurecinema. co.uk/venues/salisburycathedral

Credit: Salisbury Cathedral

Credit: Henk Leerin

Credit: Salisbury Cathedral

Entry - £15 for adult day ticket

Events

25 - 27 2023

LIVE

BANDS

STEAM

salisburyandavon.co.uk

CROSS Keys Shopping Centre is promising a summer season filled with laughter, excitement and unforgettable memories with a lineup of free events.

From enchanting encounters to prehistoric wonders and epic superhero celebrations, Cross Keys is set to offer a selection of free fun for everyone shopping in Salisbury.

Kicking off the fun will be the Summer Photo Booth, where shoppers are invited to step into a world of vibrant colours and joy. Unleash your creativity, capture the essence of summer, and share your moments with the world.

Inspired by the recent launch of the new Mario film, gaming enthusiasts and fans of those beloved characters Mario and Luigi will be able to have their photo taken with

the iconic brothers as they wander the arcades of Cross Keys.

Prepare to travel back in time as Cross Keys welcomes visitors to a prehistoric adventure ‘like no other’.

That’s right, you can meet some adorable baby dinosaurs. It’s an opportunity for young explorers to unlock their inner curiosity and come face to face with wonderful creatures that time forgot.

For the grand finale of the summer holidays, Cross Keys is pulling out all the stops to create an extraordinary Superhero Extravaganza. Superwoman will grace the centre with her awe-inspiring presence.

You can join in the celebration by dressing as your favourite superhero and be part of an unforgettable day. https://www.crosskeyssalisbury.co.uk/

Pets

Heatstroke signs: RSPCA issues warning that dogs can die on walks

OVER the last few years there has been much greater public awareness of the danger and consequences of leaving pets alone in locked cars.

These dangers increase the warmer the weather, of course, as the temperature within cars rises quickly.

While this can affect any pet being transported or left in a vehicle, it more often affects dogs than other animals.

And despite the increased awareness, it is still not an uncommon sight to see a dog left in a vehicle with all the windows shut while the owner pops to the shops or on some errand.

The hot weather, however, also offers dangers to dogs in other ways. Even on their regular walk. In fact, heatrelated exercises, according to the RSPCA, affect dogs 10 times more than overheating in cars, perhaps because people are less aware of how their pets are affected by heat while being outside.

And while regular exercise is necessary, when the weather gets hot there are, as the RSPCA points out, there are ‘considerations and practical steps’ that owners need to take to ensure their dog’s health and welfare are protected.

Heat exhaustion

We are familiar with dogs panting to cool down. When they become too hot they will drink more, seek shelter from the sun and, if available, jump into water.

But there is a point when they get so hot that these measures do not work and their body temperature begins to rise.

Once body temperature reaches a certain level they are at risk of heat-related illnesses which can be fatal. Exercising raises the body temperature anyway, so doing so in hot weather can lead to heat

exhaustion and possible death.

If you are taking your dog out, do your homework, check the route or venue, is there shade, access to drinking water, cool surfaces like grass to walk on? Check pavements and walking surfaces with the back of your hand because burnt paws are a real danger even if your dog does not show other signs of overheating.

Ultimately, it may well be safer for your dog to stay at home, somewhere cool.

It doesn’t have to be hot – or even warm – weather for your dog to be affected, each dog reacts to heat differently, the same way that humans do.

After a cold winter, dogs can take weeks to get used to warmer spring weather. And if your dog has a health condition, they could overheat even when it’s quite cool.

● Heatstroke, signs and first aid

● The RSPCA says to look out for the following signs

● Heavy panting and difficulty breathing

● Excessively drooling

● The dog appears lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated

● Collapsed or vomiting.

First aid

If you notice these symptoms, the charity advises that owners should follow its emergency first aid advice, immediately, as doing so could save your dog’s life:

● Move the dog to a shaded and cool area

● Immediately pour cool (avoid cold or freezing water as that will cause shock) water over the dog. Tap water (15-16°C) has been found to be the most effective at cooling dogs with heat-related illnesses. In a true emergency, any water is better than nothing.

● Wet towels placed over the dog can worsen the condition, trapping heat. In mild cases, towels can be placed under the dog, but never over, and in a true emergency water immersion or pouring water with air movement is ideal

● Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water

● Continue to pour cool water over the dog until their breathing starts to settle, but not too much that they start shivering

● Dogs that have lost consciousness will stop panting, despite still having a very high temperature, these dogs require urgent aggressive cooling as a priority.

● Throughout the treatment of heatstroke, try to avoid pouring water on or near your dog’s head, as there is a risk of them inhaling water which could lead to drowning, especially for flat-faced and unconscious dogs

● Once the dog is cool, take them to the nearest vet as a matter of urgency

Some types of dogs are more prone to heatstroke, like very old or young dogs, dogs with thick, heavy coats, or dogs with very short flat faces like pugs and bulldog types. Dogs with certain diseases or on some types of medication are also more at risk.

Any changes in your pet dog’s behaviour should act as a warning sign. However, there are a number of things to look out for that would indicate ‘overheating’ is in process:

● Are they breathing more heavily than usual?

● Do they have less energy?

● Are they less playful than normal?

● Are they panting more?

● Are they stumbling or laying down?

If so, stop moving, give them cool (tap) water and find shade. Keep an eye on them until they have recovered. If the signs get worse, follow the RSPCA’s emergency first aid advice.

https://www.rspca.org.uk/ adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/ health/heatstroke

Credit: Prostooleh on Freepik

Pets

West Moors ladies’ craftwork helps rescue dogs find ‘forever homes’

CRAFTY ladies at a Dorset care home rounded off months of careful attention to detail with a sale of imaginative handmade items at a village festival.

Dog rescue charity Waggy Tails was the beneficiary of gifts designed, knitted, crocheted and decorated by 11 residents of Colten Care’s Brook View in West Moors, which were sold at the nearby Westival event.

Fairy jars, woollen bird hangers, floral wands, turtle coasters and cardboard tube puppies were among dozens of items made in craft sessions and put on display to tempt visitors at the summer get-together.

It was the first time Brook View has had a stall at the annual community event, held on West Moors’ Fryers Field, a short walk from the home.

Jo Vardy, companionship team member, said: “Our residents worked hard over several months producing craftwork to sell from very cute cardboard puppies to pretty flower wands and many other summery items.

“On the day, we were joined at the stall by Brook View volunteer Claire Valvona and a Waggy Tails

representative.

“Together, we chatted to customers and it wasn’t long before we had a steady stream of sales, with the crocheted animals and woollen birds, especially the garden robins, proving popular.

We also have an order book with specific requests, such as more cardboard tube dogs in particular colours, so our tally of around £120 for the day is still on the rise and our residents will be kept busy creating for

some time to come.”

Brook View resident Paula Marels said: “It’s wonderful to play at least a small part to help some dogs find their forever homes.”

As well as the stall at Westival, a ‘doggy food bank’ of donated items was arranged back at Brook View ready for collection by Waggy Tails manager Nicky Chapman.

The idea of choosing Waggy Tails as the home’s main charity for this year came from senior receptionist Sarah Weaver. She took on her late dog Buddy via the charity.

He used to come into the home while she was on duty, proving a hit with residents, staff and visitors.

Resident Pat Upshall, a former winner at Crufts with both Bassett hounds and long-haired dachshunds, said: “It has been wonderful to see people’s generosity.

“I know times have been hard so it’s lovely to see how much people care about the animals.”

Brook View ladies with some of the items they made for Westival. Seated, from left: Patricia Upshall, Audrey Hubbard, Joan Campbell, Ellen Holland and Dorothy Parker. Standing, from left: Pamela Clark, Pam Roberts, Barbara Phillips, Sybil Connor, Wendy Lucas and Paula Marels

With the ‘doggy food bank’ of donated items are Brook View resident Patricia Upshall (left), dog breeder and former Crufts Winner, and senior receptionist Sarah Weaver whose idea it was to support Waggy Tails

A Wodehouse at the Playhouse: Jeeves and Wooster in Salisbury

By Katrina ffiske

WILTSHIRE Creative with Octagon Theatre are bringing the much-loved characters Jeeves and Wooster to Salisbury Playhouse.

The play, Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense, is an adaptation of P.G. Wodehouse’s The Code of the Woosters by brothers Robert and David Goodale. It premièred at Duke of York’s Theatre in 2013 winning the 2014 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.

The director, Marieke Audsley, took time to chat to me ahead of three-week rehearsals.

“I’m thrilled to be working on this hilarious adaptation of P.G. Wodehouse’s much-loved novel. It’s such an honour and responsibility to bring this work back to the stage,” Marieke said. “I’ll be working with actors Luke Barton, Patrick Warner and Alistair Cope.

“This will be pure wonderful Wodehouse with an art deco set, and period costumes. We have a fantastic creative team conjuring up the fabulous world of Berkeley Mansions and Totleigh Towers and it will be a stylish and playful version of the story with a lot of theatrical surprises.”

In advance of rehearsals Marieke has insisted on two things. “I’ve asked the actors to learn their lines in advance and that props are supplied from day one. Comedy is all about timing, so it’s important to

spend the rehearsal period exploring and perfecting the staging, character changes and all of the ‘business’ with the set, costumes and props, rather than using the time to learn lines.”

How hard will it be working with three actors who have to create multiple personalities on stage?

“Luke stays as Bertie throughout, but Patrick and Alistair both have to play multiple roles and often have to change characters extremely quickly, so one of the challenges in rehearsals will be

to ensure that each character is really distinct and every switch is seamless.” Marieke said.

“I worked with Alistair Cope on a very funny adaptation of Madame Bovary at the Jermyn Street Theatre last year, in which he played 18 different roles, so ‘only’ playing six, should feel like a comparative walk in the park!”

It must be very hard for a director to let go of a play once it is up and running?

“We will have worked in an intense bubble for three weeks and then the first night is the beginning of the handover,” Marieke said. “I have to let go and allow the actors and the audience to take over. I will return now and then to check in with the cast and see how the play and the characters are developing. Occasionally, there are things that need tweaking, but usually it’s just really fun to see the way in which the audience and their responses become woven into the show and how the actors share the

story with them.”

Marieke has always loved working in the theatre. “I was involved with drama from a young age, acting in school plays and attending drama clubs at the weekend and in the holidays. At university I began directing student productions and was really bitten by the bug, so I went on to do a masters in directing at Birkbeck College.

“The course involved a placement as resident assistant director at Sheffield Theatres, with the wonderful Daniel Evans as my mentor. After Birkbeck, I got a job assisting the amazing comedy director Sean Foley, who taught me an enormous amount about directing funny plays and helped me to embark on my own professional directing career.

“I am really looking forward to being in Salisbury. I have many happy memories of driving past Stonehenge on the way to family holidays nearby. I have quite a few friends who live close to the theatre and it will be lovely to spend some time with them and explore the city, during breaks from rehearsals.”

Marieke is one of the few women who almost exclusively directs comedies, although things are changing, it’s still an area mostly dominated by men. Her credits include: Ladies’ Day (New Vic & Octagon), The Massive Tragedy of Madame Bovary! (Jermyn Street Theatre), The Hound of Baskervilles (East Riding Theatre), and Maxine Peake’s play, Beryl (Arcola Theatre).

Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense, by Robert and David Goodale, runs from 1 to 23 September, before completing performances at Octagon Theatre Bolton from 4 to 21 October.

This promises to be a proper good, fun theatrical night out for everyone.

Director Marieke Audsley

Credit: Alex Brenner

Marieke will direct actors Alistair Cope, Luke Barton and Patrick Warner

Wilton RNLI sea shanty fundraising concert proves a resounding success

THE recent Sea Shanty concert held in Wilton by the Salisbury branch of the RNLI has been hailed a tremendous success.

St Mary & St Nicholas church was nearly full, with 200 people in attendance to hear Kate Edgar’s The Navy Larks and the All At Sea choir.

The event raised nearly £3,000 towards the lifesaving activities of the Mudeford Lifeboat and in addition a substantial contribution was made to church funds.

The branch committee thanked Kate Edgar, the members of the two choirs and the church for their wholehearted support.

The branch has several more

fundraising events coming up during the rest of the year.

It will be present at the Fovant Fête on Saturday, August 19, at Salisbury Market on Saturday, October 14, with a range of RNLI Christmas cards and gifts for sale.

It will also be collecting at Salisbury Football Club in the autumn.

On Monday, October 9, the branch will be holding a Charity Golf Day at High Post Golf Club for teams of four (men, ladies or mixed).

Any interested golfers should contact Ray Stedman, branch chairman, on 07900 493215; rnliwilton@gmail.com.

A journey through time, beautifully preserved.

• Guided House Tours

Our tours take in all aspects of life in the manor house from the state rooms to intimate living quarters, social spaces and function rooms.

Open Tue, Wed, Thu and Sun. Adult £14 | Senior £10 | Child £7.50

• Farm Shop & Countryside Museum

Tuesdays - Sundays including BH 10.00am to 4.30pm

• Upcoming Events

• Romeo and Juliet - Saturday, 26th August 2023. 18:00 - 21:00.

• The Breamore Country Fair Sat 23rd and Sun 24th Sep. Only £12 per ticket, children go free.

For further information please visit us at; www.breamorehouse.com or to arrange a tour of the house please telephone; 01725 512858 or email us at; team@ breamoreestate.com

Situated in the beautiful Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) at the edge of the New Forest and just north of Fordingbridge. Breamore House is a magnificent Elizabethan Manor House, built in 1583 and appearing much as it would have done 400 years ago. The house looks

out across the Avon valley and is set in its own estate which includes ancient trees and parkland, dotted with characterful cottages and farmsteads.

The Breamore Estate welcomes visitors and our range of activities include; house tours, farm museum, tea rooms, mizmaze, woodland walks, conservation, agriculture, commercial, residential, village hall, events, including wedding events, private functions and hire.

The two choirs singing together in front of a packed audience

Experienced conductor launches musical theatre choir in Fordingbridge

A TOUCH of the West End is coming to Fordingbridge, thanks to a local singing teacher, who has put out the call for enthusiastic singers to join her.

Olivia Sparkhall has over 20 years’ experience as a choir conductor and lives on the edge of the New Forest.

The choir is open to keen singers who love musical theatre, and want the chance to work with a professional voice coach while enjoying ‘belting out showtunes together’.

“The singers will learn to get the most from their voice. We will cover breathing, resonance, posture and range, and we are looking for people who are really enthusiastic about musicals.” Olivia said.

“Singing is so good for mental health; we all benefit from singing and from the social aspect of singing together. People have told me singing is the best part of their week, and that it relieves stress.

“I know what joy singing in a choir can bring and I want to enable as many people as possible to experience that joy.”

Olivia is no stranger to the concert stage, having conducted choirs in the Royal Albert Hall, Barbican Hall and the Royal Festival

Hall. Now she wants to bring the experience to her local area – reaching those who don’t usually have a chance to get this close to the West End.

Launch day will be on Tuesday, September 19 at 7.30pm, with the choir rehearsing weekly for 90 minutes. “As soon as we’ve learned some numbers there will be exciting performance opportunities. Sometimes we’ll sing together as a choir, and we’ll also get together with other

choirs, and West End Stars, to take part in ‘big sings’ at prestigious venues such as Cadogan Hall in Sloane Square.”

The choir will be singing hits ranging from popular musicals like Les Miserables, West Side Story and Mamma Mia, as well as discovering new material from brilliant new musicals.

Rehearsals will take place in the beautiful 13th-century St Mary’s Church in Fordingbridge. Each session will also be recorded and saved in our private members group which will also contain all of the music and lyrics.

This means that anyone who can’t make a session in-person can still join in, people can catch up if they are away, and anyone who fancies revisiting the rehearsal to practise their part can do so.

The termly fee is £125.40 for 12 x 90 minute sessions and members can divide this into three equal payments to help spread the cost.

“I am so excited. This is going to be an epic choir and everyone is invited,” Olivia added.

For more details about how to sign up for the choir, visit https://www.singspacechoir. com/fordingbridge/

Come rain or shine, a comedy of errors set to be performed against the backdrop of Rockbourne Roman villa

SHAKESPEARE’S Comedy of Errors is being staged against the backdrop of Rockbourne Roman Villa near Fordingbridge by the Rain or Shine Theatre Company on Thursday, 10th August.

The play tells the tale of the cruel fate which decreed that a family should be torn asunder in a violent shipwreck. The mother lost to the waves, the father and

one twin and his bondsman one way, and the other twin and his bondsman another.

Years later, in search of their lost family, Antipholus, and his bondsman, Dromio, arrive in the port of Ephesus, a city reputedly full of rogues, cheats, and sorcerers.

Although this is their first visit, merchants greet them as acquaintances, women pursue

them as lovers, and everybody knows their names.

To find out what happens next, you’ll have to book the show. Chairs, champagne, and picnics are welcome.

Playgoers should note that between August 2-24, Rockbourne Road will be closed near the Sandleheath junction. If you are visiting from Fordingbridge direction there is a

detour to Damerham that will take you to Rockbourne Lane and back on to Rockbourne Road.

Tickets: £8.00 to £16.00

Doors open at 6pm, with the performance from 7-9pm https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ rain-or-shine-theatre-co/ the-comedy-of-errors-atrockbourne-roman-villafordingbridge-test-event/202308-10/19:00/t-jzrpomv

Olivia Sparkhall has conducted choirs on the biggest stages, incuding at the Royal Albert Hall, Barbican Hall and the Royal Festival Hall

Wylye writers prove word perfect

By Brian MacReamoinn

THE WYLYE Valley is a deep source of creative writing, judging by the wonderfully exciting work heard at a recent literary soiree in Hanging Langford.

Wylye Valley Writers hosted its second successful evening of readings at Langford Parish Hall on Thursday, July 20.

Five local authors presented extracts from published novels and works-in-progress, an eclectic collection of pieces spanning a wide range of genres, from science fiction to general literary fiction.

Their writing was variously comic, romantic, wistful, mysterious and bittersweet.

The imaginative worlds they conjured up captivated the crowd packed into the village hall.

A cosy bar serving drinks and snacks kept everyone fed and watered throughout.

One of the guest authors, Tom Bromley, set up his successful and influential Salisbury-based group, the Writing Circle, some eight years ago and it was no coincidence that all the other authors on the panel had taken part in that group’s writing sessions.

Tom commented that it was great to be able to support another local venture.

Wylye Valley Writers chair, June Cluett, compèred the event, introducing each of the line-up in turn with a brief recap of their writing careers.

Rachel Barnett read from A Summer on the Riviera, a romantic romp set aboard a superyacht, a sun-filled pageturner which is an Amazon bestseller. Dave Key described his manuscript as conceptual science fiction, and here he narrated a dramatic scene from it involving a group of scientists encountering an enigmatic object.

Lisa Conway, drawing on her love of Southeast Asia, took us back into the colonial past with her historical tale, A Strand of Gold, to explore Singapore in the

days of Raffles. Tom Bromley, an established author and teacher, presented an episode from a draft of his latest novel in which a red-blooded carnivore becomes a vegetarian overnight in order to win over a girl and his ensuing comic deceptions and ruses trying to prevent this secret meat-eater being caught out.

Maude Martin treated us to a hilarious scenario in which a girl accompanies her mother on a coach tour of English cathedrals that ends in tragicomic fashion in Salisbury, with God playing an unexpected role.

After hearing all these entertaining stories, audience members were eager to discover the secrets of success. There followed a lively Q & A session

Above: June Cluett, was the evening’s compere and one of the driving forces behind the Wylye Valley Writers

finished his manuscript.

If you’re worried that your voice is mimicking that of an author you’re reading, then ask someone else to look at your writing. Rejections are part of the budding author’s life. Entering competitions is one step on the path to finding an agent or publisher. People should express themselves any way they choose, whether it’s through writing or some other medium like painting.

Characters you’re writing about can take over and not behave the way you want them to. Focus on what you want to write, not necessarily only on what you know – after all, you don’t need to murder someone to write a crime novel.

June Cluett thanked all those who came to the reading and helped to make it such a success and so enjoyable.

Afterwards, the authors mingled with the audience to chat further. Meanwhile, June, one of the driving forces behind Wylye Valley Writers, explained how she has always been passionate about writers reading aloud, bringing magical words to life.

It was at a Writing Circle evening when she had a light bulb moment.

which covered many aspects of the writing game.

Who are your favourite authors? What inspirations do you draw on? How do you discipline yourself to write? How do you avoid being influenced by what you’re reading?

How does ghost-writing work? How to find a publisher? Does everyone have a book in them? Should you only write about what you know? Is there a difference between the processes of handwriting and typing?

The panel offered much advice and wisdom. Always carry a notebook. Procrastination is a writer’s favourite activity: we heard how Douglas Adams was once put under hotel arrest by his editor until he had

“I realised I’d had this ambition to do something like this for a very long time but had somehow forgotten it,” she said. She felt compelled to fulfil this ambition and, now, here she was, already on the second edition. “It has given me a lot of satisfaction,” she said.

And the pace of her and her fellow organisers is not slowing down, with another reading session planned for Thursday, 28th September.

Wylye Valley Writers is based at Langford Parish Hall, Wylye Road, Hanging Langford, SP3 4PA.

Anyone interested in attending or contributing to a future event, please contact: junecluett.artist@gmail.com

Left: Tom Bromley reading from a draft of this latest novel

Arrow words

Crossword

Dyes

Across

1 Prohibited (6)

5 Hang loosely (6)

8 Flat and smooth (4)

9 Inclination (8)

10 Yardsticks (8)

11 To avoid the risk that (4)

12 Do not deviate from (4,2)

14 Female sibling (6)

16 Spring resorts (4)

18 Small peach-like fruit (8)

20 Ammunition chamber (8)

21 Sell (4)

22 Very serious (6)

23 Most pleasant (6)

Brain chain

2 Hostile (7)

3 Nine-voice group (5)

4 Decay (13)

5 Tooth doctor (6,7)

6 Provokes (7)

7 Canal water controls (5)

13 Mail fee (7)

15 Degrees (7)

19 Municipal (5)

17 Instrument with black and white keys (5)

19 Municipal (5)

Locally consigned guns exceed estimates on the international market

Auctioneers of Fine Modern & Antique Guns

HOLTS Auctioneers are the leading specialists in fine modern and antique guns.

Thursday 3rd & 31st August

NFU Mutual

The Creamery, Station Road

Sturminster Newton Dorset, DT10 1BD

To book an appointment, arrange a free valuation or home visit please contact:

David Thurgood - 01297 306123 westcountry@holtsauctioneers.com

www.holtsauctioneers.com

B/H Monday 28 Aug

HOLTS, one of ‘the leading auction houses for fine modern and antique guns and militaria worldwide’ has for many years sold items consigned by local clients on the international market.

Currently auctioning close to 20,000 lots per annum, often well exceeding estimates.

Holts would be pleased to give auction estimates on items, from a ‘best’ London gun to a loft find.

Recent good examples would be a W.W. Greener 12-bore ‘Royal’ hammerless ejector shotgun which sold for a very satisfying £3,900 against an

For Sale & Wanted

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT

Also old photographs and postcards. We have been buying in Wiltshire for 50 years. We are happy to call by appointment entirely without obligation.

Bristow & Garland 01747 855666 or 07392 602014.

estimate of £2,000- 3,000.

Or a rare example of a Kolibri, the world’s smallest central fire semi-automatic pistol, selling for £3,100 against an estimate of £1,200-1,600.

David Thurgood, Holts’ west country agent holds regular local valuation days, including at Sturminster Newton and Charmouth.

To find out more about the next ones in the area or to discuss a valuation or a home visit, David can be contacted on 01297 306123 or via email westcountry@holtsauctioneers. com

www.holtsauctioneers.com

Romans and Saxons bring history to life at Rockbourne’s Villa Fest

A UNIQUE family friendly living history event, complete with combat displays and activities, is set to invade Rockbourne this summer.

Following on from last year’s successful anniversary event, Rockbourne Rediscovered, the Roman site will be invaded again this August by a selection of the best period living history groups in the area, as Villa Fest brings the site to life.

Our Anglo-Saxon past will be brought to life by the authentic Herigeas Hundas, and visitors can discover more about Roman life and combat history with The Butser Roman Legion. They will also be joined by The Vicus, for an exciting exploration of our ancient past. Expect interactive displays and demonstrations spanning the Iron Age, Romans, Gladiators and Saxons.

To celebrate the unusual discovery story of the site, Rockbourne Roman Villa will also be joined by the wonderful Wessex Ferret Club who will be running ferret racing displays throughout the day. Why are ferrets important to Rockbourne Roman Villa? Come along and find out.

There will also be the chance to take a tour of the archaeological site with curator and archaeologist, John Smith. There will be lots of craft and making activities for children, including decorating your own shield and sword, displays from AVAS and Fordingbridge Museum, and storytelling on Saturday, August 5 with DD Storyteller… all included in the ticket price.

You are welcome to take a picnic, and ice creams, scones, cold drinks and refreshments will be on sale. Hot drinks are complimentary. The site is dog friendly: dogs on leads on welcome on site, but are prohibited from entering the museum building.

On Saturday evening, August 5, the team will be inviting people along for ‘An Evening with the Anglo-Saxons’. As

darkness falls on Saturday evening, visitors will have the exclusive chance to join the warriors of Herigeas Hundas around the fire for a night of feast, music and storytelling. Enjoy enchanting Saxon stories, listen to the epic deeds and songs of great warriors and join in with a celebratory drum circle to finish the night with a bang.

A separate ticket is required for this event. Gates open at 6.15pm, the performance starts at 7pm.

Rockbourne Villa was discovered by chance in 1942. A local farmer’s dog was happily digging out a ferret in the corner of a

field belonging to West Park Farm and ended up excavating a large quantity of oyster shells and tesserae, the small, cuboid tiles that are used in the construction of mosaics and usually a tell-tale sign that there is something Roman beneath your feet.

Local antiquarian Morley Hewitt was called and struck immediately by their significance decided to purchase the land and so began a 30-year period of further excavation.

Hewitt uncovered a number of mosaics and although some were damaged beyond repair, two that survived are on display, alongside the remains of a hypocaust, the ingenious Roman underfloor heating system that kept the villa and its luxurious bath suites warm. In total, the villa had 40 rooms.

The site’s history spans many centuries from the Iron Age to the post-Roman, Anglo-Saxon period and many of the finds excavated remain on site in the museum. Limited free parking is available. Those visiting by car are warned that from 2 to 24 August, Rockbourne Road will be closed near the Sandleheath junction.

If visiting from the Fordingbridge direction there will be a detour to Damerham that will take you to Rockbourne Lane and back on to Rockbourne Road.

Tickets are for one day: Adults £14, concession £12, children £7, family £40. Annual ticket holders will receive a discount when ordering tickets.

To buy your tickets and for more in formation, visit https://www. hampshireculture.org.uk/event/villafest.

Visitors will come face-to-face with Saxon warriors and Roman soldiers

Enchanting and epic Saxon storytelling awaits

New health and wellness village to feature at Salisbury Summer Fair

ON SATURDAY, August 5, Salisbury Summer Fair returns to the Wilton House Estate in support of Salisbury Hospice. This year’s event (formally known as The Wessex Country Fair), will feature an exciting new village, ‘The Retreat’, alongside all of the old classics.

The Retreat is a health and wellness village which will host a timetable featuring classes, workshops, talks and treatments. Every penny spent will go to the Salisbury Hospice Charity.

The Retreat, which has been organised by Nikki Spicer, director of Vita Skin Spa, promises a day of relaxation, inspiration, and connection.

It provides a unique opportunity for attendees to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in a peaceful and rejuvenating environment.

Highlights of the retreat will include:

Wellness Workshops: Participants will have the chance to engage in a variety of wellness workshops led by wellbeing experts.

From nutritional workshops, menopause and mental health resilience, to cacao ceremonies and self-care practices, attendees will learn techniques to enhance their well-being, improve their health and find inner peace.

Creative workshops:

Embracing the artistic spirit, the retreat offers various creative workshops such as calligraphy, crochet, embroidery, candle making, macrame and floral hoops.

Unlock your creativity and discover new passions as you delve into these hands-on activities led by skilled artisans.

Classes: Enjoy a Pilates or yoga class, try out qigong, learn breathing techniques including Wim Hof, or find calm with a sound bath, meditation or sound reiki class.

Inspirational talks: Guest speakers will deliver thoughtprovoking talks on a range of subjects, including joy, vibrations, menopause, gut health, forest bathing, the moon and much more. Gain new perspectives, insights, and motivation to enrich your life and make a positive impact.

Vita Skin Spa will be offering a range of treatments. Book a treatment in a shepherd hut or bell tent, for the ultimate in relaxation. “I am delighted to have organised The Retreat, a new village for 2023 at the well-loved Salisbury Summer Fair,” said Nikki Spicer, director of Vita Skin Spa.

“It is an exceptional opportunity for individuals to unwind, reconnect with themselves, and embrace the beauty of this historic estate. With a blend of wellness activities, creative crafts and inspiring conversations, attendees will leave feeling rejuvenated.

“The support I’ve had from local teachers, speakers and artisans, is unbelievable. Such a

Top: Classes will include a gong sound bath, provided by Studio Britford

Top right: Vita Skin Spa will be offering treatments Right: Tracey Howes will lead classes in functional breathwork

wonderful wellness community that is excited to bring this new village to Salisbury Summer Fair, to raise money for such an important charity to our community.

“The Hospice cared for my mum, who we lost in 2015 and it’s had a special place in my heart ever since. I’m excited to welcome everyone to The Retreat and show all that Salisbury has to offer in the health, fitness and wellness field.”

Natalie Pester, marketing and communications Officer for

Salisbury Hospice Charity added “We are so grateful to Nikki for supporting Salisbury Hospice Charity and organising what will be such an exciting and engaging health and fitness village at The Salisbury Summer Fair.”

There are limited spaces available for The Retreat, and buying a ticket in advance of the event is strongly encouraged.

To secure a spot, visit https:// form.jotform.com/vitaskinspa/ the-retreat-salisbury-summerfair

South Wilts A-Level students benefit from university research pilot

THE University of Winchester hopes to expand a project to help sixth formers develop research skills after the completion of a successful pilot project, which involved a group of A-level students from South Wilts Grammar School.

The students recently received their Young Researcher Certificates from Dr Liam Satchell, senior lecturer in psychology at the university.

Liam, together with his department colleagues Dr Amy Warhurst and Dr Kirsty Ross, and Charlotte Briton from South Wilts Grammar, developed the Young Researcher Programme (YRP) as an outreach activity for students studying A-level psychology.

YRP members received training on how to conduct ethical and effective research and were then supervised to conduct high-quality psychological experiments.

This year the YRP students conducted two studies.

The first exercise involved asking fellow students to watch a video in which a bag theft takes place in a crowd. The YRP team experimented with the attention participants gave to the video and compared how noticeable the theft was, informing us about everyday attention to crime-like activities.

The second study assessed the sources of young people’s mental health knowledge, comparing information received in schools versus that from social media.

After collecting their information, the teenagers returned to the university to be trained in data analysis, how to write up their findings in a scientific report and how to engage in reflective practice.

Liam believes the programme gives students a good grounding in the sort of

research and knowledge generation they will be expected to do at university and showcased the psychological research being done at Winchester.

“Training young people in thinking critically, ethically, and technically with data and scientific research is good for their wider personal development as well as their future careers,” he said.

“Not only have the students been really engaged, but they have also successfully collected

data from more than 200 young people across two studies and yielded results which replicate and expand previous research.

“We’re very excited about this as is the partner school which has appreciated the bilateral engagement.”

Liam confirmed that the South Wilts Grammar YRP group’s research data would feature in at least three journal publications and the students would receive credit for their contribution.

Charlotte Briton, teacher of psychology at South Wilts Grammar, said: “It has been exciting to be part of the development of such an innovative programme. It equips our students with practical skills which will undoubtedly be useful in their future studies and careers.

“As there is no coursework component in our Psychology A-Level, taking part in this initiative gives students real experience in how science works and allows them insight into ‘behind the scenes’ of the psychological research that we cover in class.

“I look forward to continuing work with the university on the YRP and am excited to see its evolution in future years.”

The scheme will open to more schools in 2024.

Children want to hear more about food and farming at school

ACCORDING to a survey from LEAF Education, an educational charity, most young children will not hear about food and farming at school.

The survey of 2,500 young people revealed that the agri-food industry is wellplaced to engage and inspire 12 to 19-year-olds about the sector and how to get involved in it, despite 66% saying they had not learnt about it in school. Many thought the industry would be

rewarding but had little real knowledge of what was involved or how to get into it.

The survey sought to find out more about the next generation of ‘conscious’ consumers.

It revealed that 80% wanted to learn more about sustainable food choices, and that 65% trusted supermarkets and restaurants to make sustainable and healthy choices for them.

84% claimed their number one choice for buying food would

be environmental sustainability, if the right information was on labels.

Carl Edwards, LEAF director, education and public engagement, said: “We know that young people choose their future career and next steps by age 16 or 17. At the moment they do not have a good understanding of what a career in the agri-food industry looks like – what roles there are, land-based colleges and

universities and what career progression is available.

“They require guidance on how to link school subjects to agriculture-related careers and express a clear interest in attending on-farm experiences to learn more about different career paths in agriculture.

“Teenagers recognise the importance to their lives, but there’s more to be done to make them informed and conscious consumers of the future.”

Dr Liam Satchell, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Winchester with the South Wilts Grammar students who received YRP certificates and their teacher Charlotte Briton

High praise from Ofsted for Exeter House Special School in Salisbury

EXETER House Special School has retained its ‘Good’ rating following an ungraded inspection from Ofsted.

After visiting Exeter House Special School on Monday, 14th and Tuesday, 15th June, Ofsted said: “Pupils arrive at school full of joy and anticipation for the day ahead,” and that “every pupil is seen as individual and unique in this school.”

Ofsted said that school leaders have: “Put much time, effort and resources into equipping staff to teach the curriculum in ways that precisely meet pupils’ needs”

Ofsted further complimented the efforts of the school to prepare pupils in the longer term to move on to future training courses or employment. “All through their school experience, staff focus on what pupils need to have to make informed choices about what to do when they leave school.

“This focus starts in the early years and in the complex needs class. It continues through to the vocational centre.

“Here, the curriculum is intensely focused on preparing students for independent living and the world of employment.”

Headteacher Matt Sambrook said he was delighted with the outcome of the inspection: “This is a tremendous affirmation of the hard work and fabulous teamwork at Exeter House Special School. I am incredibly proud of the pupils and our staff.”

Mr Sambrook was pleased to see inspectors comment on the

‘well-planned set of experiences takes pupils beyond the classroom’. He said: “From strong links with Riding for the Disabled, to swimming and hydrotherapy, our own Forest School and a number of after-school activities, at Exeter House we provide a range of activities to extend and enrich our pupils’ learning.”

This was an ungraded inspection, carried out by Ofsted under section 8 of the Education Act 2005.

Mr Sambrook added: “We are determined that when an Ofsted team returns for a graded inspection in a couple of years, we will achieve that top grade.”

Exeter House Special School caters for approx 175 young people between the ages of 4

FREE Classified adverts

and 19 who have profound and multiple learning disabilities, severe learning disabilities or complex needs.

The main school is based on Somerset Road, with a vocational centre for older pupils in Salisbury city centre, and resource bases at St Marks Church of England Junior School and Wyndham Park Infant School.

Ian Hewitt, chair of governors and father of a pupil at the school, is also celebrating the school’s achievement. He said: “I am thrilled with the outcome of this inspection, but not surprised. Any visitor to this wonderful school is immediately struck by the quality of experience provided for the children here.

“We are delighted to share our good practices with other special schools across the south west of England.”

Governor appeal a success story

MEANWHILE, Exeter House School is celebrating its success in finding a new batch of potential governors – thanks to the Salisbury and Avon Gazette

After we put out an appeal, a spokesman for the school said: “We’ve had several really strong applicants and hope to recruit for September – all after people had read our appeal in the Gazette.”

www.exeterhouseschool.co.uk

Matt Sambrook, headteacher of Exeter House Special School, with pupils and staff of Hawks class

Painting hope and smiles on shop windows around the city centre

Words

and photo by

Tristan Ovington

DESPITE all the challenges that Salisbury small businesses have faced in recent years, they have had at least one unsung hero through it all.

This hero is armed not with superpowers but a paint brush and a smile.

54-year-old art teacher at Sarum Academy, Michele Millidge began her career painting shop windows in 2017, after passing by Cafe Diwali restaurant in Salisbury city centre.

“I walked past Cafe Diwali on my way to work every day as an art teacher and despite the food being brilliant, the interior was really plain.

“I went in and said I’d been to India and it is so colourful and volunteered to paint their window for free and could they teach me how to make a good curry, which they agreed to the first time.

“Their windows became popular and I began to be paid in food credit.

“Customers told me, especially children who I taught, that they were asking for previous paintings like my tiger painting again and many people stopped me as I was working to tell me my art really cheered them up as they walked

past windows that I had painted.” But in what other ways does Michele

help the Salisbury retail community?

“During the lockdown period, I painted 40 shop windows. I had an idea of getting people back to shops; I worked with Salisbury Bid and did it all for free.

“I put quotes on windows about getting people back to shopping. It took several weeks to get it all done and my school gave me time off to do it. I think I helped to foster a community spirit at a very challenging time.”

More recently, Michele painted Blueberry Den and Sisters Wardrobe on Winchester Street.

Owner of Blueberry Den, Celeste Skinner, said that it has been more local residents who have been enjoying the window display. Many commented that the displays have really ‘brightened up the area’.

Katy Shergold, one of the owners of Sister’s Wardrobe added that: “We wanted something to show what we offer and Michele did a great job showing that our clothing is perfect for all occasions, like race days, weddings and summer holiday wear.

“We have had a lot of people stopping to appreciate our beautiful window display.”

Find fabrics from top British brands at Manor Farm interiors

MANOR FARM INTERIORS is the brainchild of Zahily, Rachel and Rachel.

We wanted to create a place where you can come to view a selection of fabric to get a true feel for texture, colour and pattern.

We have a large selection of curtain and upholstery fabric on the roll, and a variety of remnants, including discontinued designer off cuts, helping to reduce waste.

We also supply fabric from top British brands such as Linwood, Barnaby Gates, Peony and Sage.

We offer the option of an in-house curtain and blind making service.

Alongside the fabric we stock a vast array of handmade cushions, lampshades, lamp bases and Wovenology baskets. Please come and see us at Manor

Farm, Winterbourne Stoke, SP3 4TB. Our opening days and times are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9am-1pm or by appointment.

www.enquiries@manorfarminteriors.co.uk

Artist, Michele Millidge in front of a shop window featuring her painted design

Company directors must be vigilant if they are to avoid wrongful trading

How can insolvency practitioners help distressed and insolvent companies reduce/avoid the risk of wrongful trading?

WRONGFUL trading is all about a business continuing to trade with the knowledge that the business is insolvent, and so as soon as a company’s directors realise that their business is insolvent, or unavoidably falling into insolvency, they are at a potential risk of wrongful trading and personal liability action.

However, the earlier an insolvency practitioner is appointed, the sooner the directors can be alerted to the risk of wrongful trading and advised as to what measures they can take to minimise/ prevent such action subsequently being taken. In this article, we first remind ourselves what constitutes wrongful trading, before detailing what insolvency practitioners can do to help reduce/avoid the risk.

What is wrongful trading?

Wrongful trading, as set out in section 214 of the Insolvency Act, 1986, occurs when:

● Directors know the business is insolvent, and

● They continue trading with knowledge of insolvency and do so without any realistic prospect of paying creditors going forward.

Insolvency practitioners, when appointed, are obliged by law to investigate insolvent companies for evidence of wrongful trading. Wrongful trading is a civil, rather than a criminal offence. However, the consequences can still be severe and include directors being held personally liable for company debts and/or banned from acting as the director of a limited company for a period of up to 15 years.

What steps can directors?

To reduce the risk of wrongful trading directors need to seek professional advice quickly. Appropriate professional advisers include insolvency practitioners, accountants or solicitors.

Frequently, appointing an insolvency practitioner is a director-led process. When a company director becomes aware that their business is insolvent, their duties as directors shifts away from the company to the company’s creditors. Their duty is now to protect their creditors’ interests and to place these above those of the company.

A failure to do this could see the director being accused of wrongful trading.

The first action we take is to work out the point in time that the directors knew the business was insolvent. All businesses are different, some have sophisticated financial planning programmes, others just look to see if the bank account is overdrawn.

When that has been decided we then look to see how the directors have reacted to this insolvency. Again, this varies from person to person. Some will go on to take further professional advice (usually their accountant, initially, who more often than not makes the introduction to an insolvency practitioner), others just stick their heads in the sand and hope the problem will go away.

This latter route is asking for trouble and puts the directors potentially at risk from wrongful trading.

Once the point at which insolvency has occurred has been established, we always recommend the following steps should be taken to minimise the loss to creditors and therefore mitigate the risk of wrongful trading and personal liability.

● Maintain detailed financial forecasts: This will allow the financial position and viability of the business to be accurately and constantly

● Hold regular board meetings: Detailed records of board decisions should be kept, along with an analysis of the company’s finances and an explanation as to why a decision to continue to trade was made.

With the directors, we will then talk through what efforts they have made to obtain further finance for the business, and how much the business needs to survive, while examining what the problems are.

In this way, we can ascertain whether the problem is just a blip, or whether the business has a terminal problem which is incapable of being resolved within the current business. If the latter, then we will recommend a formal insolvency procedure.

At what point should an insolvency practitioner be contacted?

Elaine Wilkins from Antony Batty in Bournemouth points out: “We always say the earlier we are contacted, the more we can do to help. If directors spot that things are going wrong, then we might be able to advise on measures to help a business turn itself around and avoid insolvency.”

The advice above about measures to mitigate the possibility of wrongful trading if insolvency is the outcome still holds good.

A business’ financial

problems normally start with a demand for payment of some kind from a creditor (although there are many other reasons why problems begin, such as a bad debt being incurred or significant shocks like the Covid pandemic or rapidly increasing inflation).

We always advise that dialogue is opened up with the creditor(s) so that they understand why “it’s not business as usual”. There needs to be a discussion on when payment can be made, maybe via a payment plan, for example. The key point is to engage with creditors so that they can make informed decisions on any future trading.

By enlisting the help and advice of a licensed insolvency practitioner, directors are demonstrating their desire to do what is best for their outstanding creditors. We can obviously get involved at this stage, prior to any formal appointment, however, we do make it clear that the business is still the directors’ and we are only providing advice and not acting as shadow directors.

Talk to our insolvency practitioners if you are worried about wrongful trading

Given the financial shocks that many companies have faced recently, from the pandemic through to rapid inflation, rising interest rates, supply chain issues and Brexit-related problems, insolvencies have increased and it is likely that we will see a rise in wrongful trading actions.

If you are concerned about the financial position of your company and are worried about wrongful trading, please call us at our Bournemouth office on 01202 923009 for an initial free of charge, confidential and no obligation discussion.

We also have a Salisbury branch: 01722 512001

Fonthill ‘grain to glass’ brewers launch first range of traditional beers

THE Wiltshire Distilling Company has officially launched its brewing arm, Stone Daisy Brewery.

Three beers are already available, named after landmarks across the Fonthill Estate on which the brewery is located:

● ‘Cow Down’ (3.8% Social Pale Ale)

● ‘Snail Creep Hanging’ (4.2% Best Bitter)

● ‘Park Bottom’ (4.5% IPA). The brewery sits upon one of the prime barley-growing regions of England, with water coming from a source directly beneath the land.

The estate barley is malted at Warminster Maltings just 12 miles away, making for an extremely low-miles product with a low carbon footprint. A great example of produce that goes ‘straight from grain to glass’.

Each beer is already awardwinning, picking up Gold, Silver and Gold respectively for Social Pale Ale, Best Bitter and IPA in the Taste of the West Awards 2023 (the largest

Anchor

independent regional food group in the UK).

Founder and operations director Eddie Large said:

“These are English beers made from traditional methods and local ingredients, but with a

modern feel. We hope they will broadly appeal to fans of both real ales and the craft beer scene, as well as being an accessible introduction for anyone to the world of IPAs and bitters.

“On top of our recent awards, the feedback we’ve had so far from the local pubs and customers has been fantastic, and we’re looking forward to sharing these far and wide with the people of Wiltshire and the surrounding regions.

“We’ll use this consumer feedback to develop even more of these beers in the coming months and years, ensuring that each brew truly reflects local Wiltshire tastes.”

Stone Daisy beers are already available in a number of local pubs and stores.

The company has plans to venture into spirits. The same care and attention used in the creation of the beers will be used to produce the beer wash, which will go on to be distilled to create the spirit that will mature in oak barrels to become whisky.

The initial spirit will be further distilled to create vodka and the base spirit for gin and a range of botanical spirits due to launch later in 2023. The first Wiltshire whisky is expected to be available from 2026.

and Hope plans for immersive circus experience

Words and photo by Tristan

Ovington

OWNER, Reece Brown, has reopened the Anchor and Hope on Winchester Street in Salisbury with a whole new twist. “I want to provide people of Salisbury with an immersive circus experience,” explained Reece.

“I am a circus skills teacher, so I want to use the Anchor and Hope to entertain my patrons while giving my students a chance to practise their skills to a big crowd. We will be using contortionist skills, aerial hoop and silks, chains and other techniques to wow audiences.”

So what led Reece to reopen the Anchor and Hope? “I lost

my herpatologist job (studying reptiles and amphibians) due to Covid and so bought the Royal George pub in Bedwin Street, because I loved that pub and it was failing and nobody was looking after it.

“It was really dirty so I just repainted. It was stressful repainting the new pub, I had to replaster most of the walls, and there was wisteria going through the middle of the pub.”

Customers have given positive reviews already, telling Reece that: “The pub is exactly what Salisbury needed,” and that, “It’s a lot brighter in the pub now Reece has renovated it.”

Reece likes to employ staff who have had challenging

professional backgrounds to show them that bosses can be supportive and encouraging.

“I love creating a positive work environment and enjoy meeting new people,” said Reece. “One of my staff said I am good at seeing the potential in people, which was really nice to hear as that’s what I am trying to do.

“I want customers to feel happy and leave with a different experience than they’ve had in Salisbury or elsewhere. That’s why on August the 5th at 8pm we have our first aerial performance entertaining our patrons while they enjoy a pint or a gin and tonic.

“We are looking forward to everyone coming.”

Alistair, Jon and Eddie sampling their beers in front ot the Fonthill arch

Reece Brown, who also owns the Royal George on Bedwin Street

TASTE Salisbury 2023: food festival returns for its third tasty year!

GET ready to indulge in a feast for the senses as TASTE Salisbury, the city’s premier food and drink festival, returns for its third year, from September 28 to October 1.

With a line-up of exciting events and renowned personalities, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

The festival will kick off on Thursday, September 28 with the highly-anticipated and much-loved Giuseppe Dell’Anno, winner of The Great British Bake Off 2021.

This ‘Britalian’ baker, engineer, and author will showcase his love for delicious food, using local ingredients to create mouth-watering recipes live.

The same evening, you can join local artist, Edward Scott, for a foodie-inspired life drawing class in the splendour of the Guildhall’s Banqueting Hall.

The following evening, on Friday, 29th September, you will be spoilt for choice with Rums & Drums in the TASTE Marquee, a Book & Pudding Club at The Wood Bar, and a scientific food sensation in the Guildhall, which promises to be an extraordinary night of sensory exploration at ‘Sound

Bites & Sonic Seasoning’ with Professor Charles Spence from Oxford University.

You will discover the fascinating connection between sound and taste as you sample wine alongside surprising sounds. This promises to be unique event that should not be missed.

Not all of the fun is eveningbound, daytime activity seekers can enjoy a wide range of workshops, activities, walks and trails. Other activities include a table scaping workshop with

Casa Fina, a cookbook binding workshop at Fisherton Mill, herb and foraging walks starting at Five Rivers Leisure Centre, as well as a whole host of free activities at Salisbury Library.

On Saturday, 30th September the Guildhall Square will be taken over by a City Beer Festival, as well as the TASTE Marquee featuring some amazing foodie names. Lorna Cooper, founder of the ‘Feed Your Family for Around £20 a Week’ Facebook community, will share her expertise on budget-friendly cooking, minimising waste and creating delicious meals. This is a free event, sponsored by Central Fruits, that requires a pre-reserved ticket.

Also joining the TASTE Saturday event is Omari Mcqueen, CBBC star and viral sensation. At just 15-years-old, Omari is a renowned vegan chef, author and TV personality. Join him as he prepares dishes using local ingredients and shares his inspiring journey.

Sunday, 1st October promises the return of the super popular Foodie Sunday: an all-day food and drink extravaganza featuring a fantastic array of local food

producers and suppliers. Get inspiration for your future cooking creations with fab food demos, tastings and local chefs at the demo kitchen stage.

Fancy some live music? Visit the music stage showcasing great local live performances throughout the day.

And why not wow the city with your bakes and creations as part of the Great Salisbury Bake Off too?

Joining the day and new for 2023 will be Gritchie Brewing Company, eating competitions and challenges. Sunday’s family-friendly gastronomic event will be a celebration of four days of foodie fun.

But that’s not all, TASTE Salisbury 2023 also promises a whole array of offers, extra events, and food specials that will be announced as the festival draws closer. From pop-up workshops and live demonstrations, to foraging walks and live music, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

To be a part of this culinary extravaganza, make sure to book your tickets early.

Credit: Ash Mills

Credit: Ash Mills

Recruitment

Gen Z values good work-life balance

GENERATION Z (Gen Z) workers view a good work-life balance and job stability as two of the most important factors in their future careers, according to new research.

A report by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) - Gen Z in the GME Pipeline - examines the career aspirations and goals of Gen Z students applying to business education courses.

Gen Z is loosely defined as people born in the mid to late 90s.

Analysing and understanding their wants and needs has become more important as this generation begins to dominate the talent pipeline for businesses.

The findings show the importance Gen Z places on success not only in their careers, but their personal lives.

Work-life balance is of utmost importance to them, not just during their time in management education but also in their future careers.

And while financial gain remains a motivation, they also desire fulfilment, happiness, and stability.

Stability on one hand is associated with financial independence; respondents expressed a desire to set up a strong

foundation for their future from their early career.

But stability for Gen Z is also considered as an important trait they identify when assessing the sector, industry and jobs they aspire to, a lasting consequence of the Covid pandemic.

While finance and accounting are seen as stable career paths, Gen Z on average finds tech more turbulent than millennials and are less likely to want to pursue a career within the industry.

This is seemingly due to the mass firings that have been seen across tech companies such as Alphabet, Meta, and Amazon, exacerbated by the volatile nature of tech company stocks and shares.

Other findings from the report indicate Gen Z’s greater inclination towards collaboration and inclusivity.

They envision future careers where they can collaborate with diverse teams, valuing perspectives from peers of different nationalities and cultures, and prioritising workplaces that address climate change and

DRIVERS WANTED ARMISHAWS REMOVALS LTD are currently looking to recruit experienced class 1 (Class C+E), class 2 (License cat C) and 7.5t, (C1) Removals drivers to join our teams in Salisbury SP2 8RA. Driving our 18 & 21 ton rigid lorries and smaller vehicles as required, as well as being involved with the packing and loading / unloading of your vehicle.

Experience in the removals industry is desirable although consideration will be given to drivers with the right aptitude. The job also involves some working away from home during the week.

* Salary on application

* Monday to Friday working with very few weekends

* Opportunity of Progression

* Opportunity of overtime

* Guaranteed hours (following probation)

Tel John on 01963 34065

Or email transport@armishaws.com 01963

social injustice, aiming for careers that make a positive impact.

On average, the respondents were optimistic about their individual future’s but anxious about the state of the world— including its impact on their own lives.

The report finds an “emotional undercurrent” to the ambitions and career aspirations of Gen Z, where respondents highlighted that they wanted to feel a sense of pride in their work.

Gen Z are also more likely to want to see social action from their employers than millennials, whether that be regarding sustainability, climate change and/or inclusivity.

“Gen Z are a highly socially conscious and aware generation that manages to balance ambitious future career plans alongside anxiety for the future of their community and the world,” said GMAC regional director for Europe, Nalisha Patel. “And they want employers and educators to respond to their expectations.”

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

About You

• You’ll need to be target driven.

• Have a proven track record of B2B sales.

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

• An understanding of both print and digital advertising.

• The personality to build a strong customer base.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Celebrate Voice festival took on the elements and performed a miracle

WHEN weather of biblical proportions threatens to ruin your biggest concert of the year, what can you do? That was the situation facing founder and artistic director Lynsey Docherty and all concerned with Celebrate Voice’s gala show which was due to take place in the grounds of Little Durnford Manor on 15 July.

The gala show has become a major cultural event in Salisbury’s summer calendar and was planned as the first event of Celebrate Voice’s 10th festival season.

“Our major summer concert at Little Durnford Manor could

not go ahead due to the weather,” Lynsey told the Gazette.

“But with just a day to go, we were offered a farmyard on the estate and turned it into a concert hall.

“It was an incredible effort by our wholly volunteer team, and showed inspirational dedication and adaptability and was a real testament to the power of arts and the community, as professional opera singers, orchestra, volunteers, artists, technicians and farm workers came together to make this happen.

“Relocating a major event is

no mean feat.”

You would understand if the sudden upheaval and rush to get everything moved and ready had affected performances, but

not a bit of it.

“The packed audience were so appreciative and the emails I have received have been overwhelming,” added Lynsey.

Above: The orignial outdoor setting at Little Durnford Manor, taken at last year’s event Other photos: Before and after shots of the barn, showing the incredible transformation

‘Bank of mum and dad help is vital for first-time buyers’

CHILDREN of better-off parents are able to buy their first home at least four years before those from less well-off families, a Bank of England economist said.

Around one-in-four new homebuyers under 25 rely on the ‘bank of mum and dad’ (Bomad), according to a blog post by May Rostom.

The study looked at mortgages issued between 2015 and 2017.

And it found of every 100 homeowners under the age of 30, 16 would have received help from parents, rising to one in four for those under 25.

“Those who have had help from their parents put down a deposit twice as large, bought bigger first homes, and had smaller mortgage payments than those who did not,” the Bank Underground site said.

Adjusted for inflation, the average house price has increased from around £100,000 to £275,000 since the mid-1970s.

The increase in price has led to an increase in deposit required, prompting many to rely on support from the bank of mum and dad.

Ms Rostom said: “On average, deposits are two and a half times larger, loans are

30% smaller, and houses cost £15,000 more for those getting help, compared with those who are not.

“This means ‘Bomad borrowers’ are typically less leveraged and have lower mortgage payments, leaving more leeway for them to save or spend their incomes on other things.”

The study found the average 26-year-old with help from parents paid about £254,000 for their first home.

Meanwhile, those with no help waited until they were 37 to buy an equivalent property.

Interest rate rises ‘beginning to bite’

RISES in the base rate of inflation are ‘beginning to bite’ in the property market, according to one expert.

The Bank of England has raised the base rate 13 times since December 2021, with it now sitting at 5 percent, the highest it’s been in 15 years, as the bank bids to control rising inflation.

Resulting increase sin mortgage rates - and repayments - is now beginning to show in the property market, according to Tim Bannister, a property expert with Rightmove, with some asking prices falling to more realistic levels for borrowers.

He said buyers pausing their plans has led to the average asking price of a home in Great Britain dropping in July by 0.2% (-£905) to £371,907.

However he said house prices have proved more resilient than most expected during the first half of the year, now 2.6% higher than in January.

“The Base Rate rises are now beginning to bite in the housing market,” he said.

“While asking prices and home sales bounced back this year more strongly than most expected, the unexpectedly sticky inflation figures, and the surprise of further mortgage rate

rises, have contributed to the fall in average house prices and number of sales agreed.

“However, first-time buyers, trader-uppers and downsizers with higher deposits and lower mortgage requirements appear to be still keenly searching the market, not wanting to miss out on the right property that is not over-priced and that they can still afford.”

Some home-movers are putting their plans on hold until there is more certainty that mortgage rates have stabilised, he said, but there is still a large volume of motivated homebuyers who can factor rate rises into their budgets and are

continuing to enquire about homes for sale.

Estate agents are reporting that homes that are realistically priced are still attracting motivated buyers due to the shortage of property for sale compared to historic norms, he added.

“Sellers who price right the first time, rather than starting with too high an asking price only to reduce later, have a much better chance of attracting one of these motivated buyers, and a good local estate agent will provide sellers with accurate evidence of prices that are being achieved in their area,” Tim said.

The worst nine driving habits revealed

TAILGATING and unclear indication are the two most annoying driver habits according to research conducted by Confused.com.

Others making the list include throwing litter out of the window, poor parking, sudden lane changing and using mobile phones while driving.

The insurer revealed the nine most hated driving habits, following a poll conducted on its behalf by OnePoll.com. In total, 2,000 drivers responded with their driving peeves:

● Drivers who tailgate (driving too close to the vehicle in front) 59%

● Drivers who don’t indicate or don’t indicate correctly 55%

● Drivers who throw litter out of their window when driving

53%

● Poor parking – for example, parking over two bays or blocking in another driver

52%

● Drivers who cause you to brake suddenly because they change lanes without warning 49%

● Drivers who undercut 41%

● Drivers who stay in the middle lane when using a motorway 40%

● Drivers using their phone when they’re stopped in traffic or driving 36%

● Drivers with excessively loud exhausts 34%.

Not only are these habits seriously annoying, they can also

put you and other road users at risk of accidents.

But what can you do?

Luckily, Confused.com has some answers.

Note, if you want to report the driver for driving dangerously, you can call 999 or report it to the police non-emergency number, 101, after you have found somewhere safe to pull over.

Make a mental note of their licence plate and save dashcam footage of the incident:

Tailgating

The best way to deal with a tailgater is to let them pass. Don’t tap your brakes, it’s dangerous and unlikely to deter the offender.

Some tailgaters are trying to intimidate drivers to move out of their way, but others don’t realise they’re doing it. So changing lanes safely, or pulling over to let them pass, is often the best course of action.

Poor indicating

If the other driver has forgotten to indicate through lack of concentration, you may have to anticipate their mistake. For example, if someone is turning into a junction and you’re waiting to turn into a road, it’s best to wait until the person has started turning to pull out.

Failing to indicate is seen as careless or inconsiderate driving. If the driver has caused an accident because they didn’t

signal, they could face: Points on their licence; a charge; or even a driving ban.

Throwing litter

If you see someone littering or fly tipping from their car: Enter your postcode into https:// www.gov.uk/report-litter

Click through to your local council’s website once it appears

Go to the ‘report a problem’ page and report the littering

Most councils have a ‘reporting’ page, but this might vary depending on the council.

If you see someone dumping waste on a large scale, contact Crimestoppers.

Don’t pick up the litter as there might be sharp or dangerous objects in it.

Motorists can get a fine of up to £100 if they’re caught littering from their car.

Bad parking

If you see someone parked dangerously, for example:on zig zag lines, or blocking access for emergency vehicles, report to your local police force.

Any other type of bad parking, for example someone blocking your drive or parking on the pavement, is classed as a civil matter. This means your local council has the responsibility to resolve it and you should report to them.

Supermarkets are privately owned, so you can ask a member of staff or parking attendant to speak to the driver of the badly parked car.

Sudden lane changers

There’s not much you can do about someone who’s causing you to brake suddenly because

they changed lanes without warning.

If they do cause an accident, they could be charged with dangerous driving. The driver could get: an unlimited fine; up to 11 points on their licence; a prison sentence, depending on the severity of the offence.

Uncercutting

You should let them pass. There’s not much you can do to stop a driver that undercuts you on the motorway.

Don’t get irate, flash your lights or beep your horn, as it will probably just make the situation worse.

Middle land hoggers

There’s not much a driver can do to stop a middle lane hogger. The best advice is to try and avoid the urge to react.

Drivers who hog the middle lane are directly ignoring rule 264 of the Highway Code which is: “Keep in the left lane unless overtaking. If you are overtaking, you should return to the left lane when it is safe to do so.”

Mobile phone users

You can report someone who’s using their mobile phone while they’re driving to 101, or to the emergency number, 999.

You can also report them anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

The minimum penalty for driving while using a mobile phone is £200 and 6 penalty points.

Loud exhausts

If there’s a noisy car near you, you can report it to your local council. There should be a reporting section on their website where you can ‘report a noise nuisance’.

According to GOV.UK it’s illegal to modify exhaust systems to make them louder after it’s been type approved. This means the exhaust has been checked and it meets environmental and safety standards.

South west top staycation destination

THE South West is the top destination for people planning to holiday in the UK this year, according to a new survey.

Data from National Highways revealed four in 10 people intend to ‘staycation’ this year, with three in 10 heading for the seaside for a summer getaway.

It comes as holidaymakers heading off on their travels this summer are being invited to celebrate the 100th anniversary of England’s road numbering system and the introduction of A-roads.

National Highways manages around 2,600 miles of major A-roads in England, with many tourist destinations relying on them to help bring visitors to some of the most iconic locations in the country.

Among some of the most popular A-roads likely to be busy this summer include the A30, known as the ‘gateway to the South West’, while the A66 meanders its way through the rolling hills of Yorkshire Dales National Park on one side and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the other.

The A303 through Wiltshire and Somerset - including past Stonehenge - is also a notable route.

And to mark the centenary, the National Trust is supporting National Highways in its celebration of the ‘staycation’, which coincides with a year-long celebration of the road numbering system.

To be in with a chance of winning one of six prizes from the National Trust, those heading off on their travels simply need to reply or comment on one of our competition social media posts on Facebook or Twitter writing about their favourite holiday moment, including a video or photo. Alternatively, entrants can send us a direct message on Instagram about their favourite holiday moment including a video or photo.

The competition was officially launched on July 24 and closes on Sunday, September 10, at 11.59pm.

There are more than 500 places of historic and natural beauty around England, Wales and Northern Ireland, managed by

the National Trust.

Customer services director, Andrew Butterfield, said: “This year marks the 100th anniversary of the roads numbering system and it continues to play an enormous role in helping people navigate their journeys.

“As our survey data shows, we expect tens of thousands of people to be travelling on our major A-roads to enjoy a ‘staycation’ this summer and there’s no better time to enjoy some of the wonderful scenery we have right here on our doorstep. Whether it’s the A1, the A30 or the A595, the A-road system is a major part of our road network, and it helps to connect people to places.

“To mark the 100th anniversary, we’re delighted to be launching this special social media campaign and we look forward to seeing how people enjoy themselves this summer.”

For more information on the competition, log on to https:// nationalhighways.co.uk/ about-us/a-roads-to-summer-competition.

Puzzle solutions (from pages 38-39) Edition 21

Brain chain (hard)

Arrow words

Take a tour of the Downton Distillery, on the Domaine Hugo Vineyard overlooking the Wiltshire Downs and Avon Valley.

The tours are designed to inform, entertain, and may require your active participation!

You can learn about the history of Downton – the home of Sir Walter Raleigh as he rose to prominence – and what makes us unique, how we make Explorer’s Gin and the botanicals that we use.

You will be have a guided tour of the vineyard, you’ll see where we are re-wilding Juniper and get to sample Explorer’s Gin and then enjoy a complimentary Gin and Tonic!

Tours will take groups of 10–12 people only, which ensures everyone enjoys their time and gets the best experience possible.

The events are run by Hugh Anderson, the founder and head distiller of Downton Distillery.

Tours last 1.5 hours or 4 hours and the distillery is located at Botley Farm, Wick Lane, Downton SP5 3NW. Visit www.downtondistillery.com

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a leader in sustainable business. Since our beginning in 2019, Downton Distillery has benchmarked ethical and sustainable pioneers within our industry, setting a target of where we believe the distillery should be.

The commitments we have made to our community and our customers have shaped the way we do business.

Discover the history of Downton Distillery, the heritage of the surrounding area, how this has influenced our award-winning premium spirits ...and try some too!