The West Wilts Magazine - September 2018

SEPTEMBER 2018 // ISSUE 109

FREE

West Wilts The

+ LOCAL LISTINGS CLASSIC GARDENS HOLBROOK JOINERY & MUCH MORE

MAGAZINE

Education SPECIAL 12 PAGES OF SCHOOLS, COLLEGES, NURSERIES & EXTRA-CURRICULARS

WIENTS

TICK ATH TO B BY! RUG

THE

SKI STYLE

BOOK A WINTER BREAK IN SWITZERLAND

GAME GIRL

DELICIOUS SEASONAL GAME RECIPES FROM LOCAL COOK & MASTERCHEF FINALIST JUANITA HENNESSEY FOOD & DRINK // TRAVEL // HOME & GARDENS // HEALTH // COMMENT

contents Published by Wired Publishing Editor Lisa Rockliffe Contributors Craig Gates-Mutton, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Andy Diffey Advertising Enquiries Andy Diffey e: andy@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 General Enquiries e: info@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 www.wired-publishing.co.uk Address 20 Azalea Drive, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 9GG This magazine is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests.

Please recycle it when you are done, or pass it on!

The publishers shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by the failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or misprints.

Reproduction of this magazine in whole, or in part is strictly prohibited wihout prior permission of the publishers.

Front Cover: Juanita Hennessey, thegamegirl.co.uk

September 2018 // issue 109

A

lbert Einstein is famously quoted as saying that ‘education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.’ Of course he’s not suggesting that facts and knowledge are irrelevant, he’s just remarking that education is about far more than just the facts that are taught - it’s about the creation of an inquisitive mind, a healthy body and a spirited soul. As many of us look to make choices about our children’s education it is worth bearing this idea in mind. Our education guide (p41) gives you an insight into some fantastic institutions, from nursery up to college level, and looks at some of the extra curriculars that help to make the whole. It runs for 12 pages and is a must for anyone planning their child’s next educational steps.

Away from education, there is still plenty to read about this month, including some great seasonal game recipes from local cook and MasterChef finalist Juanita Hennessey, a guide to skiing in Valais, Switzerland, the opportunity to win a pair of tickets to see Bath Rugby take on Northampton Saints later this month and much more besides. That, and all the regulars you’ve come to expect too. Enjoy!

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Lisa Rockliffe, Editor Follow us on Twitter... @westwiltsmag Read online... www.westwiltsmag.co.uk

in this issue...

LOCAL LISTINGS What’s on in September

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LOCAL NEWS Round up of news & events Sign of the Angel Wiltshire Game & Country Fair The Bath Midnight Walk Wag Wins UK

12 14 14 17 17

FOOD & DRINK The Old Firestation Café The Fleur De Lys The Orchard Lounge Food News Eat The Seasons Game recipes from Juanita Hennessey Meet the Chef at The Prince Leopold

18 18 20 24 28 29 34

41 FEATURES Skiing in Switzerland Education Guide

36 41

HOMES & GARDENS Classic Gardens AG Property Management Holbrook Joinery

52 60 66

LEGAL & FINANCIAL BLB Solicitors Awdry Bailey Douglas

72 74

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Win tickets to Bath v Saints!

Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku

78 80

COMMENT The Last Word

82 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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Merkins Farm, Bradford Leigh, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 2RW Tel: 01225 869487

Escape the hustle and bustle, come to Merkin’s Farm Café to enjoy a Coffee, Breakfast, Lunch or Homemade Cake, and take in our beautiful countryside views.

OPEN

Tuesday - Sunday 9am to 4pm

REAL ALES & LIVE MUSIC From leather jackets to suits, work boots to shiny shoes and mohicans to combovers, you’ll get a warm friendly welcome at The Three Horseshoes.

LIVE MUSIC

EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY Real Ales | Beer Garden | Pub Games Real Log Fires | Parking Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA Tel 01225 865876 Find us on Facebook

(Closed all day Monday)

www.merkinsfarm.com

WOODFIRED PIZZA & BAR BEER - WINE - CIDER

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES & FUNCTIONS

OPENING HOURS

WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY 6PM - 10PM SATURDAY 11AM - 3PM & 6PM - 10PM

The Close, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 9AL t 01985 213170 e info@theoldfirestationcafe.co.uk

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| events

listings local

SEPTEMBER 2018

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL

Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 melkshamassemblyhall.com For full listings go to the website.

VOODOO ROOM 14 September, 8pm Tickets: £16.50 A high energy, world class show in total appreciation of musical pioneers Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Cream.

YOU WIN AGAIN 18 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £24 Experience the distinct sound of one the greatest bands to have ever graced the stage, The Bee Gees.

SOUNDS OF SIMON 22 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £15 A tribute to the wonderful music of Paul Simon and Simon & Garfunkel.

THE FEMALE OF THE SPECIES 29 September, 7pm Tickets: £10 Dr Phil Hammond, Wiltshire Music Centre

Live music from the female singers of some of the most popular local bands in aid of Young Melksham.

TOWN HALL ARTS Trowbridge Town Hall, BA14 8EQ Tel: 01225 774306 trowbridgearts.com

TROWBRIDGE CAFE BRIDGE 19 September, 9.30am Tickets: £45 per pair incl lunch & drink A novel duplicate bridge event played simultaneously and moving between 3 different Trowbridge cafés, Leykers, The Orchard Lounge and La Bella Vita.

AN INTRODUCTION TO OIL PAINTING 20 September, 7pm Tickets: £15 per session A five week course designed to start your journey with oil painting.

Accessible for the complete beginner as well as more experienced painters.

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE

Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 wiltshiremusic.org.uk For full listings go to the website.

DR PHIL HAMMOND 14 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £16 (Concs £12) Nye Bevan’s beautiful baby, The NHS, is 70 this year, but will she make a ton?

ALEX MENDHAM AND HIS ORCHESTRA

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21 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £22 (Concs £11) A dazzling opening to the season with jazz orchestral classics from Hollywood’s golden age.

HEATH QUARTET 22 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £19 The dynamic and charismatic Heath Quartet has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting British chamber ensembles of the moment.

CORY BAND 23 September, 3pm Tickets: £23 One of the oldest and best known brass bands in the world, formed in 1884 in the Rhondda Valley.

MARTIN CARTHY & JOHN KIRKPATRICK 28 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £16 (Concs £8) Long-time collaborators Martin Carthy (guitar/voice) and John Kirkpatrick

WILTSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS BRADFORD ON AVON Last Sunday of each month, 10.30am-2pm, Lamb’s Yard DEVIZES 1st Saturday of each month, 9am – 1pm, Market Place WARMINSTER 1st Friday of each month, 9am – 1pm, Central Car Park

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| events (squeezebox/voice) are leading interpreters of English traditional folk.

JOANNA MACGREGOR 30 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £22 (Concs £11) Joanna contrasts Beethoven’s compelling and revolutionary Appassionata sonata with Chopin’s poetic mazurkas.

POUND ARTS CENTRE Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 poundarts.org.uk For full listings go to the website.

SON OF TOWN HALL 21 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) Welcome to the mythic world of Son of Town Hall, the unusual union of Ben Parker of London, England, and David Berkeley of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

dreams out of reach.

Tickets: £16 (Concs £10.50) Broadcast live from London’s West End, see Ian McKellen’s extraordinarily moving portrayal.

TRAD.ATTACK! 29 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £14 (Concs £12) Fresh folk music from Estonia - friendly, THE ATHENAEUM passionate, powerful, dynamic, cheerful CENTRE and true to the roots.

18-20 High St, Warminster, BA12 9AE Box Office: 01985 213891 MERLIN THEATRE theath.org.uk Bath Rd, Frome BA11 2HG For full listings go to the website.

Box Office: 01373 465949 merlintheatre.co.uk LITTLE SPARROWS CABARET For full listings go to the website.

29 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £10 (Concs £8) RSC: THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR A pot pourri of local talent performing 13 September, 7pm an evening of music and dance, with Tickets: £16 (Concs £10.50) comedy thrown in.

Shakespear’s comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor will be broadcast live to LACOCK ABBEY cinemas on 12 September.

Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LG Tel: 01249 730459 VIKKI STONE nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock 21 September, 7.45pm Normal admission applies unless Tickets: £12.50 (Concs £10.50) otherwise stated Award-winning comedian and musician Vikki Stone is popping a piano PEACE - BY ANNA HEINRICH & LEON in the back of the car and heading out PALMER on tour.

8 September – 18 November, 10.30am

PARLOUR GAMES 22 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) A romp through history, exploring politics, passion and parlour games; a cross-dressing comedy which asks why TAIKO MEANTIME Britain refuses to play by continental rules. 23 September, 7.45pm Tickets: £19 (Concs £13.50) LILY AND THE ALBATROSS A new show from one of the largest 22 September, 2pm Taiko groups in the UK playing original Tickets: £8 (Concs £7) Taiko compositions.

Lily longs for more; more freedom, excitement and time out at sea, but KING LEAR – NT LIVE tradition and expectation holds her 27 September, 7pm King Lear - NT Live, Merlin Theatre

FREE The first in a series of artistic responses to the art commission ‘Peace’ at Lacock.

MAGIC THEMED FAMILY TRAIL 8 September – 18 November, 10.30am FREE Lacock has hosted many film crews who captured the magic of the place.

This Autumn enjoy a magic themed trail around the grounds and the cloister where very famous witches and wizards once walked.

A PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION BY SHADI GHADIRIAN 15 September – 13 January 2019, 10.30am FREE The work of Shadi Ghadirian is the third exhibition in the 2018 Women and Power programme. Her images describe a positive and holistic female identity, humorously taking issue with

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send your listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

CHEESE &GRAIN SUN 2ND SEPT 10AM THU 13TH SEPT 7PM SAT 15TH SEPT 7PM SAT 15TH SEPT 7.30PM SUN 16TH SEPT 9AM FRI 21ST SEPT 8PM SAT 22ND SEPT 8PM SAT 29TH SEPT 6PM THU 4TH OCT 7.30PM FRI 5TH OCT 8PM SAT 6TH OCT 9AM SAT 6TH OCT 8PM THU 11TH OCT 8PM FRI 12TH OCT 8PM SUN 14TH OCT 7.30PM FRI 19TH OCT 7PM

BOX OFFICE: 01373

455420

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MAGPIE MARKET FREE ADMISSION TIBET AND MONGOLIA: MUSIC AND SACRED DANCE FROM THE ROOF OF THE WORLD £15 RURAL MUSIC NETWORK – FUNDRAISER £5 JOHN OTWAY & WILD WILLY BARRETT £15 FROME VEGAN FAIR £3 OAS-IS & STEREOIRONICS £13 DREADZONE £19.50 FROME SPIRIT FESTIVAL £10 KATHY LETTE £18 TURIN BRAKES £22 FROME VEGAN MARKET FREE ADMISSION BAY CITY ROLLERS £20 ADV JILTED JOHN 40TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR £20 ‘LEGEND’ - A TRIBUTE TO BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS £15.50 NISH KUMAR £22 COLIN STAFFORD-JOHNSON £19.50

Turin Brakes

Kathy Lette

Nish Kumar

| events the traditional roles by which women have been defined.

CHEESE & GRAIN

5 The Bridge, Frome BA11 1AR Box Office: 01373 455420 cheeseandgrain.com For full listings go to the website.

OAS-IS & STEREOIRONICS 21 September, 8pm Tickets: £13 You won’t need to close your eyes and think you are watching the real thing – These guys are as close as it gets!

DREADZONE 22 September, 8pm Tickets: £19.50 One of the most energetic, exciting and powerful live bands to emerge from the post-rave scene, they’re still going strong into their 3rd decade.

VILLAGE PUMP FRIDAY FOLK

Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge villagepump.org.uk OPEN MIC NIGHT 21 September Tickets: £3 ROBB JOHNSON 28 September, 8pm Tickets: £10 Widely recognised as one of the finest songwriters working in the UK today, Robb’s songs feature in the repertoires of a wide variety of musicians.

THE PRESTBURY SPORTS BAR

The Close, Warminster, BA12 9AL Tel: 01985 847070 prestburysportsbar.com Bands start at 9pm and entry is FREE SMACK THE 80’S 15 September 80’s hits.

EL TORO

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22 September Classic rock anthems and funky mash ups.

PITY THE FOO 29 September Foo Fighters tribute band

ART WORKSHOPS Woolley Grange Hotel, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1TX Tel: 01225 864705

DRAWING FROM NATURE 13 September, 1-4pm

FOLK CLUB AT THE SWAN boafolkclub.org.uk Email: phil@deverall.on4free.co.uk Tel: 01380 870734 SINGAROUND 4, 11 & 25 September FREE, 8pm STEVE TURNER 18 September, 8pm FREE Steve Turner is known as a pioneer of highly sophisticated English concertina song accompaniments, stretching the boundaries of traditional forms, with one of the best voices in the business.

OTHERS ACOUSTIC OAK 6, 13, 20 & 27 September Tickets: £2 The Royal Oak, High St, Corsham, SN13 0HF Singers and spotlight nights. For more info go to the Acoustic Oak FB page.

SMILEY SPACES COMEDY NIGHT 20 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £10 The Swan Hotel, Bradford on Avon Adult Humour 18+, tickets available from from The Swan Hotel or online at Ents 24.

WARMINSTER STAMP & POSTCARD FAIR 23 September, 10am FREE Kingdown School, Warminster, BA12 9DR Tel: 01225 760597 Email: martinmantell@hotmail.com An annual event, there will be 14 dealers in attendance and plenty of parking.

Tickets: £35pp incl afternoon tea. A 2hr drawing workshop with experienced art tutor Mandy Mills followed by a delicious afternoon tea.

DRAWING AND PAINTING APPLES 4 October, 1-4pm Tickets: £35pp which includes an afternoon tea. A workshop from the Woolley Grange orchard with experienced art tutor Mandy Mills, followed by a delicious afternoon tea.

THE THREE HORSESHOES Frome Rd, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LA Tel: 01225 865876 All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm

THE LEATHERS 7 September TRIPLE JD 8 September URBAN COHORTS 9 September RATTLESNAKE VOODOO 14 September THE SETBACKS 15 September DUENNA 16 September THE BLUNDERS 21 September THE LARRY FISH EXPERIMENT 22 September THE MODEL FOLK 23 September STRAIGHT SHOOTER 28 September BROKLEY FOREST 29 September STRANGE FOLK 30 September

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| local news

roundup

All the latest news and events from West Wiltshire and beyond!

AUTUMN DELIGHTS AT LACOCK ABBEY

As the late summer sun paints Lacock Abbey with rich, warming hues, September is filled with magical moments. The woodland gardens give you the open space needed for long walks and late summer picnics. Relish the last rays of sunshine, and be sure to explore the changing photographic exhibition and newly commissioned art installation in the abbey cloister.

EXHIBITIONS & INSTALLATIONS

Suzi Quatro © National Trust Images / Anita Corbin

Anita Corbin: First Women features

portraits from celebrities and famous personalities from across the decades, including athletes, actors, politicians, musicians and businesswomen.

males, First Women asks “What is it about women that can inspire you?”’

‘Anita Corbin: First Women’ is on display at the Fox Talbot Museum in Lacock ‘I wanted to create an impressive visual from 15 September – 13 January 2019 story of female potential: fantastic role and is free with normal admission to models that will hopefully inspire other the property. women and men, of all generations, PEACE: Heinrich & Palmer is the first now and in the future’, says Corbin. in a series of three contemporary Touching on the radical inspiration for art installations at Lacock Abbey. the work, she notes that portraiture Anna Heinrich & Leon Palmer are UK has, as a discipline, favoured men: ‘In artists known for their multi-media a long history dominated by notable installations and interventions, Suzi Quatro - an image from responding to different locations and Anita Corbin’s First Women exhibition using a diverse range of materials and technologies. Best known for their immersive installations involving light, illusion, projection, sound and architecture, they will be creating a unique piece within the abbey’s cloister.

‘PEACE: Heinrich & Palmer’ is on display from 15 September – 13 January 2019 and is free with normal admission to the property.

• nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock

THE CORSHAM STREET FAIR RETURNS ON 15 SEPTEMBER! Saturday 15 September, sees the return of Corsham’s Street Fair to the town centre. With live music, entertainment, stalls, the Little Zoo, arts and crafts, great food and drink and an especially fruity trail around town, there’s something for everyone.

The fair runs from 12-4pm and there’s free parking in the all the town’s car parks all day. To find out more, contact Kirsty Gilby on 01249 702130 or email kgilby@corsham.gov.uk.

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Don’t miss this year’s Corsham Street Fair!

local news |

A CELEBRATION OF JAGUAR AT HAYNES IT’S CARNIVAL TIME IN TROWBRIDGE !

The more the merrier at Trowbridge Carnival

Learn more about the history of Jaguar at this special event

From 26 September to 7 October Haynes International Motor Museum will be celebrating one of the greatest and iconic British marques of all time – Jaguar. As well as creating a new, temporary display of Jaguar cars, the Museum’s Curator, Matt Piper, will be running daily talks at 11:15 (26 – 29 Sept) looking at Jaguar’s impressive history and celebrating its many highs, as well as remembering some of its lows. The Curator’s talks

will be complemented with volunteer led talks at 14:15.

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about this most British of marques and get up close and personal to the Museum’s collection of Jaguars. Café 750 will be joining the celebrations with a special British themed menu running throughout the event.

• haynesmotormuseum.com/events/

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE AT MANOR FARM The Elizabethan Evening stages open-air theatrical events in the grounds of the Manor at Corsley in Wiltshire. The success outdoors at the back of the Manor has led to an additional creation indoors at the front: the conversion of an Elizabethan Wayne House into The

Elizabethan Playhouse theatre.

As part a Shakespeare Weekend at Manor Farm, award-winning theatre group Illyria will be performing The Merchant of Venice on Sunday 16 September at 2pm.

The Merchant of Venice is a funny play that deals with serious issues - in particular the keeping of promises.

Trowbridge Carnival is one of the highlights in the town’s calendar and takes place on Saturday 20 October.

Organisers are hoping to make it even bigger and better than last year’s, when thousands of people line the streets to cheer on a huge array of floats, marching bands and local groups. Maryrose Mantle, chairman of the carnival committee, said: “Our recent events have become more and more popular and we’re hoping for more of the same this October. The floats look fantastic in the darkness and the event is a great way for getting the wider community involved, both as participants and spectators. The more the merrier and we hope everyone will come out again this year for a great party night in the town.”

The procession starts at 7pm from Canal Road and takes in all of the centre of town before finishing at Cradle Bridge. To find out more about being a part of the carnival get in touch with Maryrose on 07866 698278 or email her at maryrosemantle@gmail.com • fb.com/trowbridgecarnival

Tickets: £30 for the play, a champagne tea and more. Call Claire on 01373 832113 or email office@theelizabethanplayhouse. com - places are limited so be sure to book ASAP. • theelizabethanplayhouse.com Manor Farm is hosting a Shakespeare Weekend

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| local news

SEE THE SIGN OF THE ANGEL

S

ign of the Angel is an award-winning 15th century coaching inn located in the historic National Trust village of Lacock. The Angel has built a reputation for providing great

tasting food and drink in a relaxed atmosphere, thus encompassing the key elements of a traditional Inn. As autumn approaches, the fires in the Angel make the atmosphere even more cosy and welcoming.

The Angel has a reputation for providing great tasting food and drink

Open from 10am for coffee/tea and house-baked cakes, the inn is then open for lunch, through the afternoon (where the cream teas are a delight!!) and on to dinner. Lunches offer classic British dishes, with the two or three course set menu in particular offering great value for the quality of ingredients and flavours offered.

The dinner menu is la carte with the addition of daily specials too. A tasting menu in the evening is also available, for those that just want to try it all! Keep an eye out for their ingredients themed tasting events each month – coming up on 5th and 6th September is ‘Duck, Beetroot, Fig’ – including six courses of gastronomic greatness for only £40.

• signoftheangel.co.uk

WILTS GAME & COUNTRY FAIR

T

he Wiltshire Game and Country Fair graces the magnificent grounds of the Bowood Estate. It takes place over the weekend of Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September, 10am to 6pm.

Visitors will find three dedicated arenas, supported by a host of smaller country sports arenas and workshops, and the very best in countryside activities and entertainment, including horse boarding, gun dog scurries and chainsaw carving.

From the thrills and spills of the main arena, the excitement of the gun dog displays, there are also more gentle craft tents to explore, with glass blowing demonstrations and speed carves in the chainsaw area, so there

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really is something for everyone including the dog! Tickets are £12.50 for adults, £11.50 for over 65s and £4 for children (age 5-15 inclusive).

The Wiltshire Game & Country Fair has three dedicated arenas

A family ticket, admitting two adults and up to three children, costs £33.

• livingheritagecountryshows.com

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary Saving stray & unwanted dogs since 1958

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• 1958 - 2018 • th

A N N I V E R S A RY

Katie Ponsford wagwinsuk@gmail.com @WagWinsUK t 07824 831 637

fti

www.wagwins.com ‘In for a Wag, In for a Win!’

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary is a small independent animal rescue organisation.

We are a non-destruction sanctuary for abandoned and unwanted dogs.

Our dogs are all vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, neutered and chipped, and looking for loving new homes Open Daily 10:00 - 12:15 & 14:00 - 16:15

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary, Priory Rd, Ascot, Berks SL5 8RJ

01344 882689 | pineridgedogs@yahoo.co.uk Registered Charity Number 256728

local news |

THE BATH MIDNIGHT WALK

D

orothy House is opening their 2018 Bath Moonlight Walk to everyone so bring your partner, brother, dad or friend along ladies, as gents over 14 years are welcome to join in the fun.

the most of the freebies, the raffle of a luxury Mulberry handbag, the fabulous 80’s-themed merchandise stalls, warm-up and entertainment.

Entry for walkers (aged 14+) is £20 up to Sunday 9 September, thereafter

Taking place on Saturday 15 September the annual 8km sponsored walk takes to the streets of the vibrant city of Bath with the theme of walking ‘Back to the 80s’. So, dig out those leg warmers, leggings and shoulder pads, this is going to be the ultimate 80s party and organisers want you dressed to impress!

late entry is £25. In 2017, this event raised £60,000 for patient care and the team hopes to beat that figure in 2018. For full details and to enter online please visit the website.

• bathmoonlightwalk.org.uk

Dress to impress on this year’s Bath Moonlight walk

The Bath Moonlight Walk starts at 10pm from SouthGate and walkers are welcome from 8.30pm to enjoy the 80’s party atmosphere and take part in a mass participation Moonwalk! Come early to make

WAG WINS UK STARTS UP!

K

atie Ponsford has just launched her own business venture, Wag Wins UK, offering ‘handmade dog treats tested by humans, created for dogs’. Katie trained in catering at Leith’s School of Food & Wine, holds a diploma in Pet Nutrition and a degree in Wag Wins UK’s pupcakes are made with human grade ingredients

Events Management. On completing a Prince’s Trust course, to gain support and advice about business management, she created Wag Wins UK. Katie says: “I have always been passionate about baking and love spoiling my labrador, Rosie. I strongly believe the lifestyle of a dog owner is changing to become more dog friendly. It may be taking the dog on holiday with you, selecting a pub or café that allows dogs, or, most importantly, taking better care of their diet to promote a long and healthy life. Wag Wins UK’s handmade dog treats are wheat, grain and gluten free and allow dogs to be treated often without the guilt and worry about risking their health.

“All products are made with human grade ingredients and contain nothing harmful to a dog’s digestive

system. I use ingredients such as sweet potato, coconut flour, flaxseed and beetroot powder for natural colouring. You can very happily eat a pupcake yourself, as it looks as appetizing as a human cupcake!

“With dogs being such loving, helpful companions, they deserve to be taken good care of and rewarded like your family or friend. All Wag Wins UK products are approved by Rosie and recommended by me.”

Wag Wins UK caters for dog friendly cafés, farm shops and offers personalised gift boxes and birthday cakes. If you would like to try a Wag Wins UK dog cake or treat, just bark on 07824 831637 or email wagwinsuk@gmail.com.

• fb.com/Wagwinsuk THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| food & drink

THE OLD FIRESTATION CAFÉ

E

very now and then you

The Old Firestation is a hidden gem

discover a bit of a hidden gem. That’s the current status of The Old Firestation Café, but it won’t last long as more and more people discover its charms.

It is based within the ground floor of The Old Fire Station, just behind The Athenaeum in The Close, Warminster. An independent, its main attraction is a fabulous wood fired oven which they use extensively, not just for their fabulous pizzas! All food is prepared and cooked from fresh and the coffee is arguably the best in town.

Open evenings Wednesday to Saturday and also lunchtime on Saturdays, it is fully licensed and has a great warmth. As well as this, it is also available for private functions and parties.

There are nods to the building’s history all around, including helmets, hoses and the latest addition, a set of ladders from a green goddess fire engine! If you haven’t tried them,

then be sure to head over and see what you’re missing! Call to reserve your table on 01985 213170.

The Fleur offers a simple, but tasty menu of pizza, pasta and classic salads. They also have a full size skittle alley, a pool table and a darts board. BT Sport is also available to view in the bar – perfect for watching the latest premiership football and rugby.

Whether visiting the Somerset countryside or just passing through, you can be sure of a warm welcome at the Fleur de Lys. To find out more, or to book a table, call 01373 834333.

• theoldfirestationcafe.co.uk

DISCOVER THE FLEUR DE LYS

T

he Fleur de Lys is a hidden gem nestled in the Somerset countryside, in the village of Norton St Phillip, a beautifully renovated pub at the heart of its community, popular with locals and visitors alike.

As a traditional village pub they offer a wide selection of local and award-winning ales, ciders, wines and spirits. With Wadworth brewery just 15 miles away you can be sure to receive a top notch quality ale of the highest standard.

From the well-known amber ale 6X to the seasonal specials, these are accompanied by other brews from up and down the country. If you prefer, you can opt from something from the fridges, which are stocked with kids’ favourites and adult friendly soft drinks.

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The Fleur De Lys offers a wide selection of award-winning ales

• fleurdelysnsp.co.uk

S

THE

FLEUR DE LYS Norton St Philip

• Live BT Sport • Pool Table • Skittle Alley • Guest Ales • Takeaway Pizza • Function Room • Dart Board

ENJOY GREAT LIVE MUSIC

We’re a great little pub situated in the beautiful village of Norton St Philip. Head over to us on the last Saturday of the month and enjoy an evening of great live music.

Each month sees a different act, so there’s always something new to look forward to. See our website or Facebook page for details and opening times.

01373 834333 • High Street, Norton St Philip BA2 7LG www.fleurdelysnsp.co.uk • fleurdelys@wadworth.co.uk

ft

| food & drink

PLANNING AN EVENT? The Orchard Lounge café, bar and restaurant in Trowbridge is a vibrant, intimate venue for your next big shindig!

The Orchard Lounge is a great option for a fun and friendly party with great tasting homecooked food!

to set your reception off in style, including cocktails and prosecco for guests on arrival!

PARTIES

It’s not just weddings that The Orchard Lounge can cater for, they are just as much at home hosting anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas parties and even business meetings and leaving dos. And you don’t have to take over the whole restaurant either. If you wanted a smaller party they’re more than happy to accommodate that too.

T

he Orchard Lounge is a unique venue located at the top of Fore Street in Trowbridge. It’s a cosy, friendly and rustic place and over the last year has established itself as one of the best options in the region when you are hosting a party!

professional team we deliver that really well. The Orchard Lounge is a cosy venue, and gives off a lovely vibe, which can be so much more inviting than a stuffy, seldom used function room. Our size also means we are ideal if you want a smaller celebration.”

Owner Gayle Harper said, “We started getting requests for parties some months ago and it’s really taken off. When people come to us

WEDDINGS

“The restaurant can be reconfigured to include a top table and convivial seating, romantic lighting, flowers, beautiful decorations and more to set your reception off in style” they want the simple things done well – tasty homecooked food, a cosy, relaxed atmosphere and good value for money. I like to think that with our hardworking, friendly and

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The Orchard Lounge is an ideal option for an intimate wedding reception. Seating 20-30 guests, the bride and groom can help create a menu to mark the occasion.

Head chef Chris Benton is more than happy to accommodate your requests and, with years of experience behind him, can also offer some great ideas if you’re not sure what you’re looking for including sharing platters, tapas plates or even a bespoke three course a la carte menu. The restaurant can be reconfigured to include a top table and convivial seating, romantic lighting, flowers, beautiful decorations and more

For more information call 01225 767511 or email info@theorchardlounge.co.uk to discuss your needs.

• theorchardlounge.co.uk

A

A one-of-a-kind café, bar & restaurant in the heart of Trowbridge

We serve locally sourced freshly cooked homemade food with a welcoming smile in our cozy, friendly and rustic venue. There really is no where quite like us…

You’ll find award-winning coffee, homemade cakes, desserts and the most delicious weekend specials on our menu…

Our dedicated team love what we do and have years of combined experience in the industry and get most enjoyment from seeing and hearing our happy customers enjoy their experience with us.

BOOK YOUR PARTY WITH US! We are a wonderful venue for hosting: Birthdays, Wedding Receptions, Anniversaries, Business Meetings, Christmas Parties

Call 01225 767511 to discuss your requirements

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS T 01225 767 511 E info@theorchardlounge.co.uk W theorchardlounge.co.uk 66 Fore Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8HQ Open Mon & Tues: 10am – 3pm, Weds & Thurs: 10am – 10pm, Fri & Sat: 10am – 11pm, Sunday: Closed

We’re open from 9.30am for homecooked breakfasts, coffee & cakes

THURSDAY SUPPER CLUB

27 SEPTEMBER, 4 Courses, £25 ‘A COSY NIGHT IN’ see for menu

NEW YEAR’S EVE FRENCH SUPPER 31 DECEMBER ‘A NIGHT IN PARIS’

Dinner followed by a DJ & disco. Dust off your party shoes. Book your table now!

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL SHERRY WEEK...

FRI 12 OCTOBER, £35pp (limited numbers) ‘PINCHOS, TAPAS & SHERRY EVENING’ An evening a fine dishes matched with a selection of sherry wines. Presented by Gonzales Byas

CHRISTMAS MENUS NOW AVAILABLE!

01225 865650 | 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ | thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

THE RED LION

F A N TA S T I C V I L L A G E P U B I N T H E H E A R T O F H E Y T E S B U R Y

We offer home-cooked food using fresh seasonal ingredients, a warm and friendly atmosphere and affordable en-suite B&B accommodation.

New Autumn Menu, Real Ales, Large Beer Garden, Children’s Play Area, Dog Friendly, Ample Parking, Darts & Pool Table, Great Local Walks, Sunday Roasts T 01985 840315 E info@redlionheytesbury.co.uk W redlionheytesbury.co.uk 42A High Street, Heytesbury, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 0EA

Opening hours: Mon – Thurs 11am – 11pm, Friday – Sat 11am – 12pm, Sunday 11am – 6pm

BEAUTIFUL AWARD-WINNING VILLAGE PUB

the biddestone arms “THE FIRST AND LAST PUB IN THE COTSWOLDS”

Great Food and Drink in a Cotswolds Country Pub • Beautiful Garden • Boules Piste • Home of Le Tour des Cotswolds 01249 716481 | www.thebiddestonearms.co.uk | The Green, Biddestone, Nr Chippenham SN14 7DG

| food & drink

TASTING DAY AT ALLINGTON

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llington Farm Shop is one of the most popular farm shops in the region. Open since 1981, the award-winning shop specialises in quality home and locally produced food including fresh fruit and veg, home and locally reared fresh meat, poultry and game, local cheeses, homecooked meats, locally made chocolate and fudge, fine wines and local ales, preserves, chutneys and much more. Their upcoming Tasting Day is the ideal opportunity to find out more about all the local producers they stock, and to try their wares too!

Honey Gin, In a Pickle chutneys, pickles and preserves and Granny’s Secret fruit spreads and fruit honeys.

Running from 10.30am – 3pm, customers have the chance to meet

The Tasting Day takes place on Saturday 29 September and attending suppliers include Lyme Bay Winery fruit wines and mead, Liberty Fields’ unique apple-based products, Lick the Spoon chocolates, Keepr’s

the producers and try samples of their produce. It’s a great day out for anyone interested in finding our more about our delicious local foods.

• allingtonfarmshop.co.uk

A Tasting Day is a great way to meet the producers of your favourite local foods

FREE MIELE DEMO AT KNEES

W

ith over 100 years of expertise, Miele are a worldwide desirable household appliance brand, dedicated to guaranteeing their products are superior in quality and performance. If you are thinking about a kitchen upgrade and looking for products known for their reliability then Miele is a brand to consider.

Miele test their products to the equivalent of 20 years use, and their designs are consistent so you can co-ordinate appliances from across the range for years to come.

Knees Home and Electrical are holding one of their regular in store demonstrations on Saturday 15th September to showcase a wide range of Miele appliances. A Miele expert will be on hand to run product demonstrations and offer plenty of

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chances to answer questions.

To give you even more reason to head ove, Knees will be offering 10% off Miele appliances during the demonstration and until Monday 17th September.

MIELE DEMONSTRATION SESSIONS: 11am - Laundry A Miele expert will be demonstrating the latest Miele home appliances

12pm - Ovens & Hobs including induction cooking 1pm - Dishwashers 2pm - Steam & combi microwaves Just pop in to Knees Home and Electrical at Spitfire Retail Park in Trowbridge on the day. See the website for details.

• knees.co.uk/events

Award Winning, Family Run, Farm Shop Established for over 30 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open Daily 9am – 6pm, 9.30am – 5pm on Sundays

HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME HOMEMADE SAUSAGES, BURGERS & FAGGOTS

LOCAL CHEESES & HOME COOKED MEATS LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES, FRUIT & SALADS HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATE & FUDGE FINE WINE, LOCAL ALE & CIDER PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS GIFT HAMPERS

Join us for our Tasting Day on Saturday 29th September, 10.30am–3pm Meet our suppliers & sample their delicious produce!

www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk TEL: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ

The Red Lion

W O O L V E R T O N

Homecooked food served every lunchtime & evening. We also offer a dedicated gluten free menu.

Enjoy great Wadworth beers – unsure what you like? We offer a third of a pint taster.

Traditional Sunday roast with a choice of meats for only £10.95

“An ideal stop off on the A36 between Warminster & Bath” 01373 830350 | www.redlionwoolverton.co.uk Bath Road, Woolverton, Somerset BA2 7QS

| food & drink

2 AA ROSETTES AWARD FOR WOOLLEY GRANGE! The restaurant at Woolley Grange Hotel has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes following the arrival of their new head chef earlier this year. afternoon tea very reasonably priced at £6.75) are firm favourites.

After eating, you are free to explore the grounds. The 14 acre gardens include the Victorian walled kitchen garden, an ancient orchard, and a large front lawn with football nets, croquet, trampoline, swing and giant connect 4. There’s even farm animals including Rosie the pig, a gaggle of Indian runner ducks, chickens and Simon the rabbit!

T

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The head chef, team and food were highly praised by an AA Inspector

he restaurant at Woolley Grange Hotel, Bradford on Avon, has recently been awarded 2 AA Rosettes for its outstanding cuisine. Under the helm of head chef and rising star, Jethro Lawrence, the team and the food were highly praised by the AA Inspector: “It is excellent to see a team that love what they do, with an infectious enthusiasm. Cuisine is a real highlight using home grown and locally sourced produce – 2 AA Rosettes achieved.”

fresh food and flavours and love working at Woolley, using produce from the garden and foraging locally.

A lot of local residents are unaware our restaurant is open to the public. I hope they come and discover us and that we can delight them with our fresh food and delicious dishes.”

Jethro has been a quarter finalist in the BBC’s Masterchef: The Professionals, and prior to coming to Woolley Grange worked with renowned chef Simon Rogan in his 3 AA Rosettes Rogan & Co in the Lake District. He also worked alongside the chefs of Simon Rogan’s two Michelinstarred sister restaurant L’Enclume.

Jethro says: “I am passionate about

“As well as their adult fine dining restaurant, Woolley Grange welcomes families with open arms. There are children’s menus available, and Sunday lunch and afternoon tea are firm favourites.”

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

As well as their adult fine dining restaurant, Woolley Grange welcomes families with open arms. There are children’s menus available, and Sunday lunch and afternoon tea (they even have a special children’s

If you are looking for the perfect place for a relaxed family celebration, whether it’s a wedding, birthday or an anniversary, it would be hard to beat Woolley Grange. They have private dining rooms and menus they will tailor to your needs.

Sunday lunch costs £24 for 2 courses, £28 for 3 courses; a full Afternoon Tea costs £21.50 for adults, £6.75 for children, (a family of 2 adults and 2 children costs £50) and a three course Table D’Hote dinner is priced at £35.

To book just call 01225 864705 or go online. Gift vouchers are also available on the hotel website.

• woolleygrangehotel.co.uk Jethro Lawrence

An award-winning coaching inn, set in a historic Wiltshire market town, immediately beside the stately home and gardens of Corsham Court, and just 8 miles from Bath.

Serving food every day, breakfast, lunch and dinner, and open all day for tea, coffee and delicious homemade biscuits & pastries‌ STEAK NIGHTS 1ST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH Tel: 01249 717060

2 High Street, Corsham SN13 0HB

themethuenarms.com

| food & drink

seasons eat the

Keeping you in the know as to what is coming into season each month is NEIL MORTIMER from Lovejoys Wholesale...

S

eptember is here and I always think this is a time when we start to forget about all the summer crops like runner beans, broad beans and some salads. For some reason we look, too early, to using the winter crops like leeks, winter cabbages, parsnips and other root crops, so my advice is to continue to use the lovely summer veg for a bit longer and don’t be too hasty to bring on the winter.

THE WEATHER!

Our biggest headache will be getting the right size and quality of potatoes due to the very hot summer days.

This will affect size and yield so prices are predicted to double compared to last year, so expect this when you are doing your weekly shop! Maybe this is a time to use less spuds and look at using rice, pasta, quinoa etc.

Be sure to look up bathfarmgirls.com, they are excellent local producers of quinoa. If nothing else it is a talking

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point as not many people know you can get a locally grown quinoa!

(I am joking). Competition for next month.

I expect if you are a keen gardener you are well aware of the difficult conditions and how dry the soil has been. On the gardening front this month you can sow over wintered

English fruits now available in your local shop are plums, pears, apples, autumn raspberries and strawberries, greengages, quince and medlars.

“I expect if you are a keen gardener you are well aware of the difficult conditions and how dry the soil has been.”

As always feel free to email us with any of your fruit and vegetable questions or queries and we will do our best to answer you!

Have a good month,

Neil onions and spring onions. From the @lovejoysuk hedgerows and probably one of the @LovejoysLarder most productive months for foraging, you will find blackberries, elderflower • lovejoyswholesale.com berries, sloes and crab apples.

• lovejoyslarder.com

COMPETITION

Send me a small bottle of your best sloe gin!

recipes |

THE

GAME GIRL Wiltshire resident and MasterChef finalist JUANITA HENNESSEY gives us some delicious recipes to enjoy now the game season has arrived...

PHEASANT DAN DAN NOODLES Serves 4

Ingredients 3 tbsp. groundnut oil 375g pheasant mince 3 tbsp. hoisin sauce 1 ½ tbsp. soy sauce 2 tsp. five spice powder ½ tsp. dried chilli flakes Pinch of salt Drizzle of sesame oil 300g dried egg noodles noodles 1 generous bunch leafy greens (I use bok choy but cabbage or spinach also works) Handful of roasted peanuts (chopped) 5 spring onions, finely chopped For the Dan Dan Sauce 3 tbsps. smooth peanut butter 1 ½ tbsp. sesame oil 2 tsps. sugar 3 tbsp. rice vinegar 3 tbsp. light soy sauce 1 tsp. Szechuan peppercorns, ground to a powder in a pestle and mortar 3 tsp. chilli oil 2 cloves garlic, finely minced 60 ml chicken stock (or water)

✃

Method To make the sauce, in a small mixing bowl add the peanut butter, sesame oil and rice vinegar and mix. Add the rest of the ingredients and whisk again until well combined. Set aside.

Put a large frying pan on a medium/ high heat and add the oil and mince.

Break up the pheasant meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks; you are looking for small, toasty pieces of pheasant which are golden brown and slightly crispy.

Stir to coat the noodles. Keep the noodle water in the pan and on the heat for your greens.

Finely slice your greens (or if using bok choy simply cut in half length ways) and blanch for 2-3 mins over a high heat in the noodle water. Drain.

Once the mince is cooked add the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, five spice powder and chilli flakes. Cook until all the liquid has evaporated, set aside and keep warm. Just before serving drizzle with a little bit of sesame oil and stir to coat the meat.

Roast the peanuts in a dry frying pan over a medium heat. Be sure to keep an eye on these as they will quickly catch and burn. Once toasted finely chop or use a pestle and mortar to lightly crush.

Cook the noodles as per the pack instructions. Once cooked remove with tongs and place straight into the bowl with the Dan Dan sauce.

To serve, place the noodles in a bowl, then top with the greens, followed by the pheasant and the crushed peanuts and chopped spring onions.

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| recipes start to smell the garlic, add the chopped tomatoes and water. Add the basil and season. Give it a good stir and leave to cook over a medium heat for 15 - 20 minutes while you prepare the meatballs.

Tear the bread in to small chunks and place in a bowl along with the milk. With a fork squish the bread and the milk together until you have something resembling porridge.

In a larger bowl add the bread mix along with the minced meat, grated red onion, grated parmesan, cumin, cinnamon, dried parsley and seasoning. Mix together with a wooden spoon or use your hands.

Ingredients 3 slices of white bread 4 tbsp milk 450g minced pheasant/partridge 2 tbsp. dried parsley ½ tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp ground cumin ½ red onion grated 40g finely grated parmesan Olive oil for frying Basic tomato sauce 6 garlic cloves 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 2x 400g tinned tomatoes 15 basil leaves, torn 150ml water Pici pasta 410g 00 grade pasta flour, plus extra for dusting 200ml water 2 tbsp. olive oil Pinch of salt (You can also use ready-made pasta if you don’t have time to make your own) Method To make the pici dough, mix the ingredients in a bowl until the flour

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and water comes together as a rough dough. Then knead this on a work surface until smooth (about 10 mins) and rest for 30 mins in the fridge.

Divide into small balls (the size of a malteser) and roll out on a dry surface until you have a thin noodle (or worm). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment or kitchen paper and continue the process until you’ve used all the dough.

Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and drop the pici into the pan. They will take about 8 mins to cook. (test before straining, it should be al dente). Once cooked drain the pasta and return to the pan, along with some of the tomato sauce. Stir to coat the pasta.

To make the sauce, in a large saucepan (big enough to eventually house all the meatballs) add the extra virgin olive oil and the garlic cloves - which have been peeled and squashed under the flat side of a knife.

Cook over a medium heat until you

Take a dessert spoon of the mix and and roll around in your palms until you have a neat ball. Pop on a baking tray and repeat until all the mix is used up. (It should make approx. 20 meatballs). Place in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up.

Heat a large frying pan to a medium to high heat and add the olive oil. Once the pan is hot add 5 - 6 meatballs at a time and fry off for a couple of minutes until they are brown all over. Jiggle the pan around as they cook to make sure they brown evenly on all sides. Remove from the pan and place on a clean plate while you repeat the process with the remaining balls.

Once you’ve browned all the meatballs add to the saucepan with the tomato sauce along with the resting juices from the plate. Makes sure they are all snuggled in tightly and baste with the sauce. It will be a tight fit but they should all sit evenly in the pan. Cook for 3 minutes and then turn off the heat, leaving the pan on the hob. The meatballs will continue to cook in the residual heat without drying out.

✃

‘WILD’ MEATBALLS & PICI PASTA Serves 4

THE

WESTBROOK

Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2EE

tel 01380 850418

www.westbrookbromham.co.uk

WINNER OF BEST FOOD & BEST OVERALL PUB IN THE DEVIZES CONSTITUENCY BEST LOCAL PUB AWARDS! Kevin & Louise invite you to visit The Westbrook. It offers an inviting bar, a beautiful sun deck, garden and a new children’s play area. The menu is bursting with superb value traditional pub classics and top notch specials.

• FRESHLY COOKED FOOD • DAILY SPECIALS • FAMILY FRIENDLY • LARGE GARDEN • CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA • REAL ALES • CAR PARK

FOOD AVAILABLE UNTIL 8PM ON SUNDAYS

Enjoy The Great Atmosphere At

The Organ Inn CAMRA Rural Pub of the Year 2018!

After a long day what could be better than a warm welcome, a convivial atmosphere and a glass of something you fancy?

REAL ALES & CIDERS (Find us in The Good Beer Guide)

FRIDAY 7 & SATURDAY 8 SEPTEMBER

1 1 BEER FESTIVAL At least 16 different real ales, 10 ciders and perrys showcasing TH

the best of local and national breweries. FREE ENTRY

Tel: 01985 211777 | OVER 21s | www.theorganinn.co.uk 49 high st, warminster, wiltshire ba12 9aq (just a 5 minute walk from the railway station) OPEN 4pm-12midnight monday to friday, 12noon-12midnight saturday, 4pm-11pm sunday

| recipes

BUTTERMILK FRIED QUAIL WITH WAFFLES Serves 2

Method Divide your quails into 4 portions each (you can ask your butcher to do this for you!) Place half the buttermilk in a bowl and season well. Add the quail pieces and coat well, leave to marinate for 2 hours or overnight.

and salt and then the flour mix again to double coat. Shake of any excess and transfer to the baking sheet.

Heat the oil in deep fat fryer to 175°C. Once hot, submerge the quail and fry for 6 mins until golden brown. Transfer to kitchen paper and drain.

To make the waffles, put the dry ingredients into a bowl and whisk. In a separate bowl whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter and egg.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients and whisk until you have a fairly thick batter. Pop in the fridge until you’re ready to use. Brush the hot waffle iron with oil and pour 2 ladles of batter into the centre and spead roughly round the iron. Cook for approx. 3 mins until the waffles are cooked through and golden.

Combine all the ingredients for the maple syrup in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Take off the heat and leave Combine the flours, garlic and onion the flavours to infuse while it cools. powder and spices in a bowl and season. Pour the remaining buttermilk Remove the thyme but leave the into a separate bowl and season. Get mustard seeds in for bite. a baking sheet ready to pop the fully Place the waffle segments on the prepared quail on. plate and add the quail. To make this Start coating the quail by placing them dish even more luxurious, add a fried duck egg and then drizzle with the into the seasoned flour. Transfer the quail pieces into the bowl of buttermilk maple syrup.

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JUANITA HENNESSEY Since reaching the final of MasterChef in 2016, Juanita has focused on food full time and has built up a wealth of experience in private dining, recipe development, food writing, and teaching. She also continues to stay in the public eye with regular appearances and live cookery demonstrations at events and festivals.

Under her pseudonym of The Game Girl she’s bringing her enthusiasm for game cookery to life, working with some very exciting organisations, including Taste of Game, to get game back into the everyday British kitchen. www.fosburyfoodie.co.uk www.thegamegirl.co.uk

✃

Ingredients 3 quail, each carved into 4 Sea salt & black pepper 285ml buttermilk 100g plain flour 50g corn flour 50g rice flour 1 tbsp. garlic powder 1 tbsp. onion powder ½ tsp sweet paprika ¼ tsp ground turmeric 2 litres of vegetable oil for deep frying Waffles 180g plain flour 10g caster sugar 1 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp bicarbonate soda Sea salt 180ml buttermilk 36g butter, melted 1 small egg 1 tbsp. veg oil Maple dressing 200ml maple syrup 10g yellow mustard seeds ½ tsp dried chilli flakes ½ tsp mustard powder 1 sprig fresh thyme

FTI

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS

NEWLY REFURBISHED! Situated on the picturesque Kennet & Avon Canal The Barge Inn offers excellent food, great Wadworth beers, an extensive wine list and much more. It really is a pub for all seasons

With a hardworking team, wonderful locally sourced produce and a great selection of beers, wine and spirits this handsome bustling inn has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where children and dogs are very welcome.

• REGULAR LIVE MUSIC • QUIZ NIGHTS & FUNDRAISERS • REAL ALES • GLUTEN FREE MENU • CAR PARK WINSLEY, BRADFORD ON AVON BA15 2LQ SEVENSTARSWINSLEY.CO.UK TEL: 01225 722204 ENQUIRIES@SEVENSTARSWINSLEY.CO.UK

OPEN: Mon-Thurs: 12pm-3pm, 6pm-10:30pm Fri-Sat: 12pm-11pm Sun: 12pm-10:30pm

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL

Every Wedneday, lunch and evening, enjoy 2 main course fish & chips for only £18.95!

COMING SOON... OUR NEW AUTUMN MENU! Fresh, seasonal & delicious!

The Little Kitchen

A Small, Family Run Café & Takeaway Serving fresh hot & cold food

CHRISTMAS PARTIES Call for menu details and availability!

Bar Open Mon - Sat 11am - 11pm Sun 11am - 10pm Food Served Mon - Fri 12pm - 2.30pm & 6pm-9pm Saturday 12pm - 9.30pm, Sunday 12pm - 8pm Sign up to our mailing list and get £5 off your food bill when you spend £20! Details on our website.

Tel 01380 828230 www.bargeinnseend.co.uk Seend Cleeve, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 6QB

A

PUB

Homemade Cakes, Cream Teas & Coffees, Light Lunches, Sausage Rolls, Pasties & Pies Vegetarian, Gluten Free & Lactose Free options available

5 Star Rating, Family Friendly Indoor & Outdoor seating Open 7 Days A Week

The Martingate Centre, Corsham Tel 01249 712200

| food & drink

MEET THE CHEF

PAUL KINSEY, head chef and owner at The Prince Leopold in Upton Lovell, talks cooking for critics, the arrival of the game season and cheeky Nandos!

What was your first job in catering?

I worked at Afon restaurant in Salisbury where I started washing up and worked my way up to become sous chef.

Where have you worked before?

For the past seven years I was the head chef at The Angel Inn in Heytesbury and then I had the opportunity to run my own pub at The Leo and I have not looked back.

What are you looking forward to at The Leo? I really enjoy Christmas time. We have just finished our menu. I love the festive feel of The Leo. Do you have any favourite local suppliers?

We use Style Farm butchers in Warminster and local home grown veg suppliers wherever we can.

What is your favourite dish on the menu?

Fillet of Venison Wellington, duck liver, wilted spinach, pickled shitaki mushroom, madeira sauce What is the most memorable event you have cooked for?

Cooking for Faye Mascler the food critic in the Evening Standard and she really enjoyed it and gave us a great review.

Do you have a favourite season for food?

Winter is my favourite season because shooting is my hobby and I love cooking with fresh game.

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Paul is looking forward to Christmas at The Leo

When you get a day off, which local pubs and restaurants do you like visiting?

The Ivy in Bath.

When you cook for friends, what’s on the menu?

I love a barbecue next to the river so that’s always a winner!

What’s your favourite kitchen gadget?

We don’t use many gadgets in our kitchen, all you need is a great team around you.

And your guilty pleasure?

I love a cheeky Nandos!

To make a reservation at The Prince Leopold call 01985 850460.

• princeleopold.co.uk

THE

Farmhouse INN

Quality food freshly prepared for you

Frome Rd, Southwick Nr Trowbridge BA14 9QD

The Farmhouse Inn is a beautiful 17th century pub offering a wide variety of good home-cooked food, as well as superb real ales and fine wines.

Come & dine in beautiful garden!

NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS! 2 & 3 course menu options available

Tel

01225 764366

email: the.farmhouse@btconnect.com www.farmhousesouthwick.co.uk

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY TODAY! Dine & Disco Nights Friday & Saturday 7th & 8th, 14th & 15th December

99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6LL t 01380 870263 | e restaurant@lambonthestrand.co.uk

www.thelambonthestrand.co.uk

Paul and Emily Kinsey would love you to join them for a lunch or evening at the Inn where you are welcome to relax with our team over a superbly kept real ale, a meal in our restaurant, or an overnight stay.

Book your Christmas Party in our riverside restaurant Christmas Lunch & Dinner served throughout December

2 Courses ÂŁ24 per person, 3 Courses ÂŁ29 per person Booking essential. Exclusive use hire available for private parties

Tel 01985 840560 www.princeleopold.co.uk Upton Lovell, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 0JP

| travel

HEAD FOR THE SLOPES

KATIE THOMSON takes a winter break in the Swiss region of Valais, an area renowned for its stunning scenery, superb skiing and wonderful food.

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The skiing is great for everyone from beginner to expert

“

Can I shuffle down on my bum?”

I pleaded, wide-eyed, like a deer in headlights, at my instructor.

Almost Yoda-like, he shook his head and said “no, snow plough you must”. He pulled me to my feet (again)and we continued our winding descent through crunching powder snow, the only disturbances being my frequent moments of contact with the ground.

travel | days. This initially provides me with solace surely no one’s beyond learning? - and sure enough, hour by hour, my feet and head began to move in tandem and my fear dissipates making way for real enjoyment!

Despite my feelings toward skiing after my first shaky morning, I’m definitely an advocate of the post-ski lunch - you need lots of calories to stave off the cold, right?

When visiting alpine resorts, you know Thankfully, despite my inexperience and to expect the usual boot-filling dishes of less than Ski-Sunday-chic composure, I was potatoes loaded with cheese - and certainly not the only beginner facing my fears in this in Aletsch Arena there is no shortage of winter wonderland. The Aletsch Arena in that. But, what you may not expect is to the southern Valais region of Switzerland is enjoy some world-leading fare. The Valais very popular with families - meaning baby canton is known in Switzerland for its and adult beginners alike. That said, there is exceptional produce, namely because it is nothing like seeing a three-year-old cruising the sunniest (over 300 days a year) region along with perfect form to make you feel a in the country. From the cows who provide little bit foolish for finding it so tricky! the flavoursome meat and freshest milk for the chocolate and cheese, to the fruit farms The Valais’s headline resort may well be bursting with ripe apricots, the region has Zermatt, but our base was the Riederalp - a an array of specialities which each make the stunning car-free village situated moments most of ingredients from a small radius. from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Aletsch Glacier. As well as being My first port of call was to get my mitts spectacularly beautiful, Aletsch enjoys on the famous Raclette, a semi-firm cow’s a reputation for being a great resort for cheese, often served melted alongside families, with its wide and gently sloping potatoes, gherkins and pickled onions. This nursery pistes, ski-in/ski-out apartments was decadent and delicious, washed down and veritable army of Swiss instructors, with the dry and flinty Fendant - one of the bedecked in their signature red apparel, all first of many fabulous Swiss wines I tasted. who speak excellent English.

Valais accounts for over 40% of Switzerland’s wine output, with over 50 grape varieties.

Naturally this also makes it wonderful place “The Valais canton is for beginners to find their feet, no matter known in Switzerland for their age. Unlike many other European its exceptional produce, resorts, which force learners into a very namely because it is the unsteady adjustment between the almost flat nursery area and far more challenging sunniest (over 300 days a slopes, the pistes are wide enough to year) region in the country.” practice turns and control speed without the imminent threat of collision with a The great shame is that many of these neighbouring group. There are also lots bottles don’t make it into our shores. The of blue runs interspersed throughout the grapes from Valais are harvested by local resort, meaning you really get to ski the people, with virtually every home stocked pistes, but are never covering ground you with its own vines. Pinot Noir and the Swiss feel uncomfortable on. classic Chasselas account for the lion’s share of production, but you will also find The Swiss ski school promises to have you an amazing depth of variety including the successfully skiing a blue run in just three region’s oldest native grape varieties, such THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| travel as Arvine, Cornalin, Humagne and Rèze. Hard to find at home, but well worth the effort!

find that the modern snow shoe was a much more civilised and petite affair.

We ascended via cable car to the Moosfluh summit station and with our Sitting on the borders of Italy and expert guide to help us navigate, we France, and with Germanic influences forged a path across the virgin snow. from the north, the cuisine is a melting Along the way, we began to hear the pot underpinned by the quality of great Aletsch Glacier before arriving the produce - something the people upon it to take our first long look. of Valais are evidently proud of. One Brooding and magnificent, cloaked of the most famous dishes of the in pockets of cloud and rumbling region is the unappealingly named with power, you can see why this ‘Cholera Pie’. The hearty dish takes its magnificent glacier has attracted so name from a 19th-century cholera many to explore. epidemic that swept across Europe.

The mountain people in the Valais We continued the walk through confined themselves to their homes woodland, only to emerge at the to avoid contagion, forcing them to chocolate-box perfect Villa Cassel, improvise a meal from whatever they where Winston Churchill is said to could scrounge from their larder. They have spent a number of summers. added leeks, onions, apples, pears and The house is now a centre for natural a bacon called petit lard, wrapped it all history and mountain excursions - and in pastry and baked it. It was so tasty, few monuments are better placed! they continued to make it, and it has become a staple ever since! I’m not My final thoughts as we wandered surprised either, it is utterly delicious through this incredible landscape was and everything you could want in just how recharged I felt. Whether it winter comfort food. was the alpine air, the wonderful food or just the exertion in the altitude, Whilst my skiing was beginning to I was struck by a new appreciation improve under expert guidance, for Swiss culture and felt I had there was also some time to explore experienced more than just a standard the slopes… in snowshoes! Images skiing jaunt. I was leaving the Valais of the great explorers with wooden with an understanding of the deep tennis rackets attached to their feet pride the people of the canton take in filled my mind, but I was pleased to their little slice of heaven.

The food of the Valais region is renowned

A short walk from Riederalp takes visitors to Villa Cassel

TRAVELLER’S TIPS The ski season runs from mid-December to the end of March and I stayed at the Walliser Spycher hotel, which is a really traditional resort within Riederalp that also serves terrific food. For most of January they offer an “Aletsch Hit” which includes a 7-day ski pass, 20% discount on ski rental and B&B accommodation from around £700pp, based on two people sharing. Switzerland has a reputation as an expensive destination, and you can spend a small fortune should you wish, but there are more budget friendly options and offers available, including free skiing for children The closest airport to Riederalp is Sion, but it is easier to fly into Geneva, with trains available to take you to the rest of the way. Flights from Bristol to Geneva cost around £55pp each way with Easyjet

USEFUL LINKS • myswitzerland.com • walliser-spycher.ch • swiss-ski-school.ch

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education |

Education SPECIAL Whether you are thinking about nuseries, schools or colleges, trying to expand your child’s extra curricular activities, or looking to strengthen their academic foundations with tutoring, our education guide is packed full of useful info.

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| education

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Hazelgrove children are encouraged to be themselves

HAZLEGROVE SCHOOL Hazlegrove, Sparkford BA22 7JA OPEN DAYS: Saturday 6th October & Friday 12th October At Hazlegrove, it is OK to be yourself – they believe children can only really develop, learn and reach their true potential when they feel good about themselves. It simply doesn’t work if they are having to look over their shoulders the whole time.

They aim to equip their children not just to survive but to thrive in this turbulent and fast changing world.

The academic curriculum instils a love of learning, of enquiry and of intellectual rigour; the varied games programme promotes physical fitness and engenders a real sense of teamwork; music, drama and year group productions ensure the stage holds no fears for anyone and outdoor education promotes self-reliance and resourcefulness. It is all about ordinary children getting caught up in the spirit of the place and achieving extraordinary things.

Visitors are assured of a warm welcome either by appointment or at one of the open mornings, which take place on 6 and 12 October at 11am.

• hazlegrove.co.uk

KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL

North Road, Bath BA2 6HU OPEN DAYS: Friday 12th October (Sixth Form), Saturday 13th October (Nursery & Pre-Prep, Junior & Senior) Founded in 1552, King Edward’s School has held a special place in Bath for over four centuries and is now firmly established as one of the leading schools in the South West.

As a family of three schools, the pre-prep, junior and senior sections of

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King Edward’s offer an inspiring and supportive environment for children age 3 to 18. All pupils are encouraged to be the best they can be and all are nurtured along the pathway to leading happy, fulfilled and successful lives at school and beyond.

The ethos of the school is one that encourages all pupils to make the most of all the wonderful opportunities here, both in and KES is a family of three schools offering education to boys and girls from 3-18

out of the classroom. Recognising the success of this approach, the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate

“The ethos of King Edward’s is one that encourages all pupils to make the most of all the wonderful opportunities here, both in and out of the classroom.”

SPACES STILL AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER 2018

Offering a variety of flexible sessions 51 weeks a year for children aged three months to five years

01249 701444 t @lwdaynursery corsham@littlewillowsdaynursery.co.uk www.daynurseryinbath.co.uk

Longscroft

Children’s Nursery School

Full day care for children aged 3 months to 5 yrs Funding available for eligible 2yr olds Funding available for 3 & 4 yr olds

Come & see what makes us special! www.longscroftnursery.co.uk | 01225 777698 Trowle Common, Trowbridge BA14 9BL

Advertise here from as little as £15 per week* Call 01225 807775 or email andy@wired-publishing.co.uk

*plus VAT

Out of school & holiday club for 4 to 11 yr olds Fantastic outdoor facilities

| education (ISI) recently rated us as ‘excellent’ across all aspects of school life, acknowledging that ‘the school’s extra-curricular provision is outstanding’ and that ‘pupils acquire a love of learning which goes beyond the curriculum.’

At St Margaret’s your child will learn in a safe, nurturing environment

During the open day guests are also taken on a tour of the school and enjoy performances in music, sports and drama, as well as having the opportunity to take part in a range of activities across different departments.

For further details, please contact the school registrar on 01225 820399 or visit the website.

• kesbath.com

“The Sixth Form at St Augustine’s is full of great young people who enjoy their studies and participate fully in the life of the college.”

ST AUGUSTINE’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE

Wingfield Road, Trowbridge BA14 9EN OPEN EVENING (SIXTH FORM): Tuesday 23rd October St Augustine’s Sixth Form is characterised by warmth and community as well as academic excellence. The College is a voluntary academy and is among the very highest performing schools in the country, with a strong record of success in examinations. As a Catholic school it places a strong emphasis on community, pastoral care, spiritual awareness, integrity and service. Applications to the Sixth Form are welcome from any student, irrespective of religious background, who meets the school’s academic entry requirements and is able to support this ethos.

Headmaster David Forster says, “The Sixth Form at St Augustine’s is full

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of great young people who enjoy their studies and participate fully in the life of the college. We have an impressive academic record that places St Augustine’s College among the top schools in the South West and indeed the country.

Students are challenged to become independent, active, enquiring, critical and creative thinkers, who will make a positive difference in the world. The Sixth Form environment nurtures academic achievement and prepares students with the necessary skills for post-18 careers and higher education, including Russell Group and Oxbridge universities, as well as American university scholarship programmes. Our consistently outstanding examination results enable our students to realise their ambitions beyond school. As well as receiving stimulating and dynamic teaching, there is a rich and varied programme of extracurricular activities for Sixth Formers.”

Visit St Augustine’s on Tuesday 23rd October to find out more about this outstanding school and plan your post 16 experience.

• st-augustines.wilts.sch.uk

ST MARGARET’S PREP SCHOOL 63 Curzon Street, Calne SN11 0DF OPEN DAY: Thursday 11th October St Margaret’s is an independent day school in Calne for boys and girls aged from 3-11. Your child will learn in a safe, nurturing environment and spend each day in modern, stimulating and purpose-built teaching spaces. 30 acres of campus and offsite facilities mean there’s space to explore, learn, play, let off steam, relax, think and grow.

Teaching throughout the school is tailored to meet the needs of the individual child. Children are encouraged to reflect and evaluate their own learning and with support identify their next steps. Specialist teachers offer a wide range of experiences and as a result, the teaching delivers truly personalised learning for each child. An extensive range of mobile technology enhances learning across the curriculum.

Of course you want your children to be happy, alongside giving them the best possible start in life. Your child will join a school with real spirit and

Sixth Form Open Evening

Tuesday, 23rd October, 6.00pm - 8.00pm

| education energy, which lives each day to the full. The teaching staff purposefully pack excitement and learning experiences into every moment. St Margaret’s is a place where friendships and special memories are created and where a love of learning is established.

• stmargaretsprep.org.uk

are well prepared for school when that transition comes. Forest school sessions take place twice a week and children also benefit from specialist teaching in swimming, ballet and Spanish. When they move on to the prep school every child is provided with academic challenge At Stonar, pupils benefit from exceptional teaching, strong relationships and great facilities

STONAR SCHOOL

Cottles Park, Atworth SN12 8NT WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING: Saturday 22nd September A day and boarding school from nursery to sixth form, Stonar is highly ambitious for its pupils, providing a nurturing education which brings out the best in every child. Pupils benefit from exceptional teaching, strong relationships and great facilities, including an outstanding equestrian centre, all in beautiful Wiltshire countryside and within easy reach of Bath.

Stonar’s year-round nursery is focussed specifically on the needs of 3-4 year olds, guiding them to build their knowledge and skills through learning and play. The nursery’s curriculum ensures children

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school opening day on Saturday 22 September and a dedicated equestrian morning on Wednesday 10 October. Book your place via the website.

• stonarschool.com

WILTSHIRE COLLEGE

4 Campuses Across Wiltshire Open Days: 3rd October, 4th October, 11th October, 13th October Based across four campuses (in Chippenham, Salisbury, Trowbridge and Lackham), Wiltshire College is home to 10,000 students studying more than 150 courses, whether that be full time, part time, university level or an apprenticeship.

Courses range from Animal Care and Agricultural Engineering to Catering and Hair & Beauty. With a distinct career-focus, the courses are designed to ensure students are industry-ready on completion.

The College has secured more than £20million worth of funding to develop its Salisbury and Lackham campuses over the next few years, bringing its facilities right up to date. See the huge range of courses and excellent pastoral care in a on offer at Wiltshire College at the secure environment. And once at October Open Events, across all four senior school the academic rigour campuses. Open Days take place is maintained through a broad in Chippenham on Wednesday 3 and imaginative curriculum, high October, Salisbury on Thursday 4 expectations, excellent teaching and October, Trowbridge on Thursday 11 the high-intensity care that comes from dedicated staff and small classes. October and Lackham on Saturday 13 October. Visit the website for all the information, or simply search Wiltshire At Stonar almost 50% of the grades College on your preferred social across all subjects at GCSE are media channel. awarded A*-A grades. Students • wiltshire.ac.uk and staff alike are also celebrating excellent A Level results, with 85.5% at A*-C, comfortably exceeding the national average, and nearly all pupils bound for their first choice of KIP MCGRATH university.

45 Castle Street, Trowbridge

TUTORING

There are a number of open events during the year, with two coming up in the autumn term, a whole

Kip McGrath provide professional tuition in English and maths to children aged 6 - 11 and science to secondary school children in

| education the Wiltshire area. They aim to provide the best specialist facilities and professional expertise to help children realise their potential in English, reading, writing, spelling, mathematics and science. Children at their centre grow in confidence as they are provided with a programme of study that is tailored for them, with any new or difficult concepts clearly and patiently explained. Kip McGrath’s tutors find that increased confidence can have a massive impact on a child’s progress, and this can affect all subjects.

All tutors at Kip McGrath Trowbridge are fully qualified, CRB checked teachers. What’s more they provide detailed reports on a regular basis so parents can see how their child is improving. “We emphasise the positive aspects with every child so outright failure is eliminated. Kip McGrath Education Centres provide an opportunity to repair self-esteem and confidence, in an atmosphere of encouragement where learning can be fun,” said Centre Director Matt Hughes. To find out more call the Trowbridge office on 01225 777514 • kiptrowbridge.co.uk Little Willows is based near the centre of Corsham

KUMON 4 Palmer Street, Frome BA11 1DS The unique Kumon Maths and English programmes pursue the potential of each child by developing confident, independent learners through individualised, advanced study. Similar to other tuition providers Kumon focuses on essential academic skills, but they go one step further by nurturing the independent study skills, needed for school, further education and employment, and confidence to help all students achieve their potential. Kumon Frome is Ofsted registered – call 01373 451889 to find out more, or go online to book your child’s FREE one to one assessment.

• kumon.co.uk/frome

working knowledge of teaching and assessment within the English and Maths curricula, including the New National Curriculum. Her experience has included all main stream year groups and special needs at primary level over a continuous period of 25 years.

Mary has taught one to one English and Maths at Key Stages One to Three, as part of a Government funded programme focusing on the needs of each student and their potential to achieve and to make progress.

• 01225 765210 / 07432 379773

NURSERIES

LITTLE WILLOWS MRS HARPER TUITION DAY NURSERY Trowbridge If your child is struggling with schoolwork, lacks confidence or simply wants to reach for the stars then Mary Harper can help. She offers one to one tuition in her own home, close to all the secondary schools in Trowbridge. Catering for all abilities, Mary has a thorough

Stokes Road, Corsham SN13 9AA Little Willows day nursery, based near the centre of Corsham, is owned by former Bath and England rugby player, Steve Ojomoh. The day nursery is open Monday to Friday, 51 weeks of the year and offers care for babies and children aged 12 weeks to 5 years. Little Willows has one main play room, with a large indoor sandpit, and sensory room, and an outdoor play area. The nursery has a dedicated on-site chef who freshly prepares all meals and snacks daily, using locally sourced produce.

Little Willows strives to make its nursery accessible for everyone, providing the best possible care for all children, including those with additional needs. The nursery is set on one level so is physically accessible for all who attend.

If you would like further information about the nursery, call 01249 701444 or email corsham@ littlewillowsdaynursery.co.uk.

• daynurseryinbath.co.uk

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Sun 23rd Sept & Sun 25th Nov 10am-1pm Wiltshire Rural Music

VOICE (JAZZ) Wednesday 12th September TRIO Wednesday 10th October

CLARINET Wednesday 14th November CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Wednesday 5th December

| education

LONGSCROFT CHILDREN’S NURSERY SCHOOL

sensory activities including messy play. Classes have been carefully designed to support babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers at every stage of their development, helping develop vital communication skills, encourage imagination and creativity as well as promoting social and physical development and motor skills. They offer a range of classes which are available for different ages, from 0-4 years old, with sessions available in Bradford on Avon, Bath and Chippenham. From 17 September five week terms will be available for £35 - details of all classes can be found on the website, where you can also book your spot.

• adventurebabies.co.uk/bath

Trowle Common, Trowbridge BA14 9BL At Longscroft they care for children from 3 months to 5 years. They have 4 separate rooms for each age range with a free flow garden attached to each. There is a huge amount of outdoor space for little ones to enjoy including an allotment, a sensory garden and pet’s corner. The nursery follows the themes and principles of the EYFS and incorporates learning in both the indoor and outdoor environments. They enjoy messy play (especially in the mud kitchen!), gardening and story times as part of the daily routine and accept 2, 3 and 4 year old funding. There is also a busy PLAYWOOD FOREST after school club for children from 4 to SCHOOL & OUTDOOR LEARNING 11 years old. Call the office for more Bath area information on 01225 777698.

PlayWood provides child-led learning • longscroftnursery.co.uk and discovery for children aged 18months to 16yrs in the Bath area (they have also recently launched adult sessions). The sessions take place in the beautiful valley of Monkton Combe – with woodlands, large fields and babbling brooks; nature provides ADVENTURE BABIES the perfect playground.

Bradford on Avon, Bath & Chippenham As well as their group sessions, At Adventure Babies they bring PlayWood also provides forest brilliant stories to life through school and outdoor learning in local interactive storytelling and exciting

PRE-SCHOOL & EXTRA CURRICULARS

Adventure Babies’ classes have been designed to support children through every stage of their development

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primary schools along with teacher training. They are Ofsted registered, members of the FSA and have been running for 7 years. For more details follow them on Facebook, call Tania on 07780 673229 or email tania@ playwoodforestschool.co.uk.

• playwoodforestschool.co.uk

“Wiltshire Rural Music is a community music charity which supports people of all ages and abilities to learn and make music.”

WILTSHIRE RURAL MUSIC

Across Wiltshire Wiltshire Rural Music is a community music charity which supports people of all ages and abilities to learn and make music. They offer something for everyone, with a variety of music workshops and ensembles running weekly, either from their Creative Hub in Trowbridge, or out-and-about in rural villages.

Fostering and encouraging people to make music in rural locations is their main focus. Through their ‘Music on your Doorstep’ initiative they offer high-quality ‘music-making’ events, run by skilled musicians to communities that often have little access to cultural activities. There is also the popular monthly lunchtime concert series Tune@Noon, which provides an opportunity to listen to local musicians whilst enjoying a cup of tea and a piece of cake. Tickets are £5 (includes said tea and cake!) and booking is highly recommended, as these events are very popular.

The team always welcome discussions with new people about how to improve their work, so if you have an interest in ‘music-making’, or would like to know more, visit the website or email info@wiltshireruralmusic.co.uk.

• wiltshireruralmusic.co.uk

| gardens

CLASSIC GARDEN CARE Need help with your outside space? Whatever your requirements give RHS qualified gardener James Treacy a call.

W

hether you want to give your garden a total design overhaul, a good clearout or you just need some advice and expertise, James Treacy can help. He has spent 15 years designing and caring for gardens, and is fully RHS qualified and insured. “September is a great time to think about what you want from your garden,” He says. “You’ve experienced most of the growing season and after the summer we’ve just had, you’ve been able to spend lots of time out in it, experiencing it.

Do you need an extra entertaining area? Are your planting areas giving

you the seasonal interest you want?

Do you need more shade?! Whatever you think you need, now is a great time to do a renovation. The heat of the summer has gone, but plants still have time to recover before the winter kicks in. And, if you need hard landscaping done, the ground will have plenty of time to recover before you’ll want to use it again next year.”

DESIGN & LANDSCAPING James is an expert at working with clients to create idyllic and harmonious spaces. Approaching gardens as an extension of the home he can help maintain your

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garden and grounds or assist in a total transformation of your outdoor space. Classic Gardens provides professional support at every phase of a project, including after its completion. Whether you wish for a complete redesign or simply want a new patio, lawn or dry stone wall, he can help.

James can help with all aspects of garden design and maintenance

CARE & MAINTENANCE James can help give your garden all year round care, taking care of planting and weeding, garden clearance and maintenance, hedge trimming and shrub pruning, lawns and greenkeeping and even paths and dry stone walls. He can also help maintain ponds and water features.

You might yearn for a wonderful garden but don’t have the time to dedicate it, or you may just not have the energy to keep up with the garden jobs as you once did, whatever your horticultural needs, give James a call on 07940 261734 and he will happily come and discuss your ideas.

James can advise on getting the most from your space and your conditions

To find out more, and to see some of the work James has done, see his Facebook page @classicgardeners, or take a look at the website.

• classiclandscapesandecopools.co.uk

Classic Gardens

FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS James Treacy has spent 15 years designing and caring for gardens. He can help with everything from day to day maintenance to design and landscaping.

• RHS Qualified • Garden Maintenance • Design & Landscaping • Pruning • Tree care • Ponds & Water Features

Phone: 07940 261734

Email: info@classiclandscapesandecopools.co.uk

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Tel 01225 763927 Plants & Shrubs, Bedding, Fruit & Veg, Seeds & Bulbs, Gardening Products, Paving, Pots & Containers, Tools, Compost, Wildlife Feed and Outdoor Aquatics, Gifts plus a great selection of Spring Flowering Bulbs Christmas Display & Shop

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| house & home

BETTER BATHROOMS Active Plumbing Supplies sell top quality plumbing products for trade and retail customers, stocking anything to do with bathrooms and heating.

Find high quality suites from top manufacturers cheaper than you’ll get at big name stores

bigger outlets for superior quality products. We also offer free local delivery. As part of our personal touch we can also recommend the best company to speak to depending on the demands of a particular job. You don’t get that from your big DIY warehouses.”

“Grey can work in both traditional and modern settings and because it’s a neutral colour, the chances are that the room won’t look dated in a few years time.”

A

s well as supplying everything from showers, baths and sinks to radiators and toilets, Active Plumbing Supplies also offers advice to customers unsure about how they want to design their bathroom. They stock top brands including Tavistock, Roper Rhodes, Heritage and Bristan, and have a huge choice of suites to choose from including traditional and contemporary designs - and all at competitive prices. One of the most popular trends in design at the moment is for darker bathrooms.

Large bathrooms can instantly feel warmer with the use of dark colours, and if your smallest room is particularly cosy you can use a dark tiled surround or even some dark coloured furniture to get the look you’re after. Adding furniture has the

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added benefit of providing much needed storage, whilst also keeping ugly pipework out of sight.

Along with all these extra services, Active Plumbing Supplies can also help with the design of your new bathroom, and can produce 3D layouts of how your chosen suite might look in your space. To find out more pop into see them in the Riverway Industrial Estate in Trowbridge or call 01225 765000.

The showroom is open six days a week, Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 5pm and on Saturdays from 8am to 12noon.

Another big trend in bathrooms is the use of grey, which remains hugely popular throughout interior design. Grey can work in both traditional and modern settings and • activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk because it’s a neutral colour, the chances are that the room won’t look dated in a few years time, which is always a concern on a project.

Manager Martyn Johnson said, “We are more than happy to help customers with any plumbing advice they need. The showroom helps gives people ideas for how they can transform their bathroom or cloakroom, all at prices that are far better than you’ll find from the

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| house & home

HOLIDAY HOME MANAGEMENT

AG Bespoke Property Management offers a full property management service to holiday homeowners throughout the region.

AG Bespoke Property Management offer a full service for total peace of mind

A

lex and Jess Gale own and operate AG Bespoke Property Management, a family business borne out of years of experience in building and maintaining property. Alex has spent 20 years in the building industry, whilst Jess has a background in computing and finance, fantastic for ensuring the business runs smoothly!

“With their keen eye for detail, the business has built up an enviable reputation among holiday homeowners and investors.”

The company has grown and evolved from a small cleaning operation – primarily helping with clean ups on Alex’s projects – to a full property maintenance company that offers a wide range of services to both private and commercial clients in the Bath and Wiltshire area.

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With their keen eye for detail, high standards and reliability, the business has built up an enviable reputation among holiday homeowners and investors. Offering full management packages, clients can hand them the keys and leave them to run the show. Alex explains. “Our clients vary from those who happen to live in prime areas who have decided to dip their toe in the holiday market, to foreign investors who own numerous properties across the country. Our clients include ex-rugby players, former Olympians and other VIPs, who, like everyone else, value our professionalism and reliability.

“We consider ourselves incredibly lucky to live in such a fantastic part of the UK, and are fortunate to have some lovely properties on our books, and great clients who trust us with their investments. An average day consists of Jess liaising with guests from all over the world whilst I

manage a small team who carry out the changeovers and any required maintenance on our properties.

As well as the maintenance and housekeeping, we also offer a 24hr call out service, can be the property key holders and will also carry out debt collection if required.

It really is a full management service designed to give our clients total peace of mind, so is ideal for those new to holiday letting, those who have full time work that needs their attention, or those that live elsewhere.”

Whilst Bath has long been a key area for tourism, in recent years its rural surrounds have also become prime areas for holiday lets. Alex and Jess regularly see tourists and business people staying within the M4 commuter belt and beyond, into Box, Melksham, Westbury and Trowbridge.

If you would like to find out more about handing over your property maintenance to them give Alex or Jess a call on 07800 600583 or 07817 257224.

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| house & home

HOLBROOK JOINERY Holbrook Joinery is family run Wiltshire business offering custom built kitchens in traditional and contemporary styles.

O

wner Dan Williams and his team are passionate about wood in all its forms and they undertake projects both large and small, from kitchens to one off commissions.

Holbrook joinery offers a truly bespoke service, delivering beautifully crafted, handmade kitchens and custom joinery solutions to clients across the South

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West. They tailor every element of your kitchen to your home and family life, only ever use the highest

to your exact requirements.

Firstly, the team strives to develop an in-depth understanding of your

“Holbrook Joinery offers contemporary, country and shaker kitchen designs in solid timber such as oak, maple, ash and walnut and in contemporary lacquered birch plywood.� quality materials from managed and sustainable sources and always deliver an individual design created

home and how you want your kitchen to function. Then they can supply personalised elements

house & home | Holbrook Joinery are passionate about wood in all its forms

All units and cabinets are hand built in their Sutton Veny workshop

carefully moulded to your space.

From concept to completion, they will work with you to ensure the finished product exceeds your expectations in every respect.

Holbrook Joinery offers contemporary, country and shaker kitchen designs in solid timber such as oak, maple, ash and walnut and in contemporary lacquered birch plywood. They can also give you a beautiful painted finish which can

be sprayed or hand painted in any colour you like. A range of worktop options are also available from solid timber, crafted to fit your kitchen design perfectly, to granite and marble or the more modern look of solid surface tops such as Corian.

Stone and solid surface worktops are the only aspect of the business they subcontract out, and even then they only use trusted local craftspeople.

the rooms in your home from a freestanding wardrobe or chest of drawers to library book shelving and utility rooms. Again these are all available in painted finish or solid timber.

All kitchen cabinets and units are hand built in their workshop in Sutton Veny, near Warminster. They include features such as dovetailed drawers and concealed soft close hardware. They can produce island units, larder units and integrated appliances, the list goes on‌

• holbrookjoinery.co.uk

So if you are considering a new bespoke kitchen or other joinery project, why not get in touch and organise a no obligation meeting to discuss your requirements?

Alongside kitchens they also produce high end cabinets and built in storage solutions for all THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| health & wellbeing

KEEP ACTIVE FOR LIFE Private homecare specialist Abney & Baker is helping older people across the region lead healthier, more active, more fulfilling lives.

Abney & Baker help to keep clients mentally and physically active

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egendary newspaperwoman Katharine Graham – who ran The Washington Post when it uncovered the Watergate scandal – once said: “No-one can avoid ageing, but ageing productively is something else.” That is a core philosophy at private homecare specialists Abney & Baker, who believe that keeping clients mentally and physically active makes a huge difference to their quality of life and can help prevent or slow down dementia.

The NHS says adults aged 65 and over are the most sedentary age group, spending 10 hours a day on average sitting or lying down. The result is often increased obesity, heart disease and premature death. Keeping active in your older years is essential and benefits include lower blood pressure and cholesterol, a more positive mental outlook, reduced waistlines and better sleep. Activity could be as simple as stretching exercises (even in a wheelchair), a walk or light gardening. Whatever shape you The company was started by Ian are in, there are ways to keep body Willis after he struggled to find and mind active and reduce social suitable private homecare for a close isolation. Here are some suggestions, relative and operates in Bath, Saltford but do consult a medical and West Wiltshire. It helps people professional before embarking on live independently in their later years, an exercise regime: with the focus on quality of care and service, flexibility and treating Swimming: This cuts the risk of clients as individuals, devising illnesses such as heart disease and tailored care plans that promote Type 2 diabetes, improves your mood independence, dignity and quality and helps control your weight. of life. This includes its ‘Active for Life’ Walking: Walk as briskly as possible programme which organises events for ten minutes a day so that you are and activities to keep clients active slightly out of breath to burn calories and provide social stimulation. and get in shape.

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Strength training: Research shows it is essential for older people to maintain good muscle tone. Do it at home or at your local gym.

Volunteering: Being at the heart of your community and staying actively engaged brings a sense of purpose as well as physical and mental benefits.

Hobbies: Never underestimate the therapeutic power of interests such as painting, cooking, gardening or studying for qualifications – doing them in groups can increase the health benefits by preventing social isolation.

“Keeping active in your older years is essential and benefits include lower blood pressure and cholesterol and a more positive mental outlook” Activities recommended for people with dementia include: Multisensory activities: Gardening, baking, and nostalgic activities such as compiling a memory box.

Sensory gardens: Designed with scented and edible plants, sculptures, and water features.

Memory cafes: Relaxed places for people with memory problems to enjoy activities and get support.

Singing: Recommended by The Alzheimer’s Society, people with dementia can sing and socialise with others in the same situation.

Contact Abney and Baker to discuss your needs, or those of a family member.

• abneyandbaker.com

| legal & financial

IS IT TIME TO STOP THE BLAME GAME?

ANNETTE TAYLOR, Family Lawyer based in the Trowbridge office of BLB Solicitors, looks at the recent contested divorce case of Owens v Owens.

T

here has been a considerable Annette Taylor has been practising family law for nearly 35 years amount of publicity recently regarding contested divorces.

In the case of Owens v Owens, Mrs Tini Owens issued divorce proceedings against her husband on the grounds of his unreasonable behaviour.

Mr Owens defended the divorce.

Following a contested hearing, the judge refused to grant Mrs Owens a decree of divorce on those grounds.

The case was appealed several times and eventually the Supreme Court decided against Mrs Owens, with defended divorces. In the words upholding a lower court’s decision. of one judge: “What is the point of remaining married to someone A divorce can only be granted if the who does not wish to be married to marriage has “irretrievably broken you?” Unlike in the majority of family down”, but the petitioner then has proceedings, where each party pays to evidence that by using one of their own costs, in defended divorces five facts, namely: unreasonable costs can be awarded against a party. behaviour, adultery, two years desertion, two years separation by Although the case of Owens v Owens consent or five years separation. attracted considerable publicity, in “It is anticipated that in many cases the stark reality is that view of the case of Owens the cost is too great to defend a divorce and whilst many respondents v Owens, legislation will be brought in to allow no feel aggrieved about allegations of unreasonable behaviour, many come fault divorces.” to realise it is preferable for them to focus on children and financial issues.

In practice it is very rare for divorces to be defended, in view of the cost.

It is anticipated that in view of the case In the nearly 35 years I have been of Owens v Owens, legislation will be practising family law, I have only had brought in to allow no fault divorces.

10 defended divorces. These had unusual facts and none went to a final Resolution (formerly known as the Solicitors Family Law Association) is contested hearing. lobbying for parliament to pass this legislation. This would prevent spouses At an initial hearing, at which the court considers what further evidence who are mutually seeking to end their marriage from assigning blame and is to be provided, many judges try to persuade respondents not to proceed making damaging allegations.

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Mrs Owens will therefore have to wait until she has been separated from Mr. Owens for five years before being able to issue fresh divorce proceedings, unless parliament brings in legislation for no fault divorces in the meantime.

I am a member of Resolution and follow their Code of Practice that promotes a constructive approach to family issues and considers the needs of the whole family and in particular the best interests of children. If you would like to discuss any issues regarding family breakdown, whether it be divorce, a cohabitation dispute, disputes over children or money matters then please contact me on 01225 755656 or email me at annette. taylor@blbsolicitors.co.uk.

• blbsolicitors.co.uk

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| legal & financial

IS LONG TERM ELDERLY CARE EVER FREE?

We asked ANDREW DOUGLAS, a partner at Awdry Bailey Douglas Solicitors who specialises in elderly care, if this is ever the case.

SURELY ELDERLY CARE IS ALWAYS FREE?

There are only two situations where long term care is totally free, meaning that people should not pay for their care at all. The first is if a person qualifies for NHS Continuing

a payment towards their nursing costs in a registered nursing home or a residential home registered for nursing. The rate is £155.05 per week.

The second situation arises where, but for certain disregards, a person’s house would be used to pay for their

“There are only two situations where long term care is totally free, meaning that people should not pay for their care at all. The first is if a person qualifies for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC).

In this situation the NHS pays for everything” Healthcare (CHC). In this situation the NHS pays for everything including board, lodging and medical treatment. To qualify a person must have a primary health need determined by the nature, intensity, complexity and unpredictability of their medical condition. This type of funding is not for life and is reviewed regularly. The bar for qualifying is high. The second situation is if a person has been detained in hospital under Section 3 of the Mental Health Act 1983, meaning that upon discharge if the same condition applies they are entitled to free aftercare whether rich or poor.

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• abdcare.co.uk

care. The disregards include where a person goes into care but leaves behind in their house a spouse, partner or former partner, provided they are not estranged or a relative over the age of 60. There are other disregards.

IF NOT FREE, OR PARTIALLY FREE, WHAT THEN HAPPENS?

Firstly your income is taken into account to include state pension and occupational pensions. Then your capital is taken into account to include your house assuming none of IS ELDERLY CARE EVER the disregards referred to above PARTIALLY FREE? Yes. There are two principal situations apply. You are then treated as a private funder and have to where this arises. Firstly, if a person pay for your long term does not qualify for CHC but as part care assuming your of a follow up assessment qualifies for Funded Nursing Care. This means total savings exceed no matter how rich or poor they get £23,250.

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If you want to know more, then for a free appointment and to find out the answers to questions that need answering email Andrew Douglas or his team on ajd@awdrys. co.uk or call 0800 072 8636. The firm has offices in Marlborough, Royal Wootton Bassett, Devizes and Chippenham. Alternatively, take a look at their website.

Andrew Douglas

We have been trading in Wiltshire for 20 years, and are specialists in writing Wills, advising on Trusts and helping with Probate.

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WILL PRICES: £75+VAT SINGLE, £100+VAT JOINT If you have money or property and become unable to deal with your affairs because of an accident or illness your assets may be frozen. If you have a stroke, or develop Alzheimer’s, your family may have to apply to the courts to deal with your affairs. This can be expensive, may take a year or more to complete and a large sum of money may have to be deposited with the courts!

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives somebody of your choice the power to deal with your financial affairs if for any physical or mental reason you were unable to. It is the only document which gives this power but you can only complete one while in good health, so you need to act as soon as possible.

To make an appointment for a home visit please telephone:

01225 400060

Head Office: Redbridge House, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EW www.wtponline.co.uk | david@wtponline.co.uk | 01225 400060

e s n .

| bath rugby

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO BATH V SAINTS

Enter our competition to see Bath Rugby take on Northampton Saints on Saturday 22 September at the Rec, ko 3pm.

B

NEW ARRIVALS Bath have some exciting recruits, particularly in the backs. Jamie Roberts and Jackson Willison will run hard attacking lines from centre, Will Chudley will bring experience, energy and tempo from scrum half and, on the wing, Joe Cokanasiga is one of the most exciting prospects in the league. After missing all of the second half of last season, the return of Semesa Rokoduguni will also feel

Jamie Roberts is one of several exciting additions to the squad

like a new signing. Combine that with the arrival of new attack coach Girvan Dempsey and there is a lot to look forward to in the weeks and months ahead. Tickets are available for the first few rounds of Gallagher Premiership action now.

COMPETITION We are lucky enough to have a pair of tickets to give away to see Bath

“New arrivals Jamie Roberts and Jackson Willison will run hard attacking lines from centre”

take on Northampton Saints at The Recreation Ground on Saturday 22 September. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is email your answer to this easy question to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk, good luck!

HOW MANY WALES CAPS DOES JAMIE ROBERTS HAVE? Is it... a)34

b) 64

c) 94

Email your answers now. Good luck!

Closing date for entries is 14.09.18. Entrants must be over 18. Prize is as stated and is non-transferable. No cash alternative will be offered.

• bathrugby.com

UPCOMING FIXTURES To buy tickets call the Ticket Office on 0844 448 1865 or go to the website.

8 September

Joe Cokanasiga has great raw talent

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16:30

H

Gloucester Rugby

GP

TV

15 September 15:00

A

Harlequins

GP

TV

22 September 15:00

H

Northampton Saints

GP

29 September 15:00

A

Saracens

GP

5 October

H

Exeter Chiefs

GP

19:45

TV

images © Patrick Khachfe/Onside Images

ath Rugby enter the 2018/19 season buoyed by a great finish to the last campaign when they clinched an unlikely sixth place finish on the last day of the season. That secured Champions Cup rugby, the draw for which promises great excitement for the season ahead. Bath have been pitted against former winners Wasps and Toulouse as well as current champions Leinster. Bath’s first Champions Cup game takes place against Toulouse on Saturday 13 October, (ko 1pm).

health & wellbeing |

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART GYM OPENS

O

n 13 August Bath’s newest and most high spec group exercise gym, Toniq, opened in Green Park. It has just undertaken an extensive refurbishment, which includes modern changing facilities and a 1,200 sq ft purpose built gym designed to provide the people of Bath with the best possible option when it comes to class exercise.

With its cool dark walls and LED lighting, Toniq resembles more of a cool nightclub than the bland, clinical gyms many of us may have been used to. Classes are 45 minutes long and offer a fun, high energy workout to great music. They have seven classes a day, Monday to Friday, as well as three on a Saturday, although you would be welcome every day a realistic expectation is that members would workout four times a week.

Owner Arron Collins-Thomas has been working as a personal trainer in and around Bath for over 12 years. Having been the lead trainer at Babington and running his own studio in the Apthorpe centre, he is a familiar face to many in the city.

Arron commented, “Having seen a real increase in the popularity of group training I felt there was a gap in Bath for a fun, independent fitness community.

“I have heard many people complain that they pay a gym membership and rarely go or just do a couple of classes a week and hope for results.

They are wasting their money and their time and I wanted to fix that.

Our classes are designed to get the very best results, while also being in a fun environment with high energy music. The workouts vary from day

to day to keep the results coming and to give our clients a balanced workout week. If you’re interested in giving it a go, visit the website to register for your free class!”

• toniqlife.com

Toniq’s classes are designed to get the very best results

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| puzzles

TEA BREAK TEASERS

CHEESY WORDSEARCH

What/who is missing from the grid?

BRIE BUCHERON CAMEMBERT CHEDDAR COMTE EMMENTAL FONTINA

SUDOKU

HARD

GRUYERE HALLOUMI MASCARPONE MOZZARELLA PECORINO

ROQUEFORT STILTON TALEGGIO

WIN A £15 iTUNES VOUCHER! Email your answers to these trivia questions to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk by 23.09.18 to be in with a chance of winning a £15 iTunes voucher. Good luck!

Q1: From which animal’s milk is Mozzarella traditionally made?

Q2: From which country does Wagasi cheese come from?

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: KULDEEP Quiz answers: 1: Edgbaston, Birmingham 2: Take 300 catches in ODI’s 3: Jake Ball 4: Joe Root 5: 18th August

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Q3: Which vegetable dye makes Red Leicester cheese orange?

Q4: In 1724 which author devoted a chapter to Cheddar and its cheese in his book “A tour of the Islands of Great Britain”?

Q5: Which kind of leaves are wrapped around the outside of Cornish Yarg cheese?

Be sure to include your contact details so we can get in touch with you if you are our winner!

| last word

SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER

Q

uite a few of the parents I know look at the summer holidays as a bit of a trial. You’ve got your kids at home with you all day and have to try your best to do something constructive with them to justify taking the time off work. Or you have to find childcare for the little darlings which, as we know, can be really expensive.

This is our first school time summer holiday and I have to say I have loved it. I used to really enjoy spending time with my daughter, and when

perfectly pitched for a five year old.

I know it won’t last but while it does I’m going to lap it up and enjoy every pretend sleepover, every marathon Lego session making unrecognisable objects, every swim and every bike ride because soon enough I won’t be the most important, or even the funniest, person in her life... Although to be honest I can’t actually see that day ever coming!!

As part of the summer break we went on holiday for a week in France.

It is the first time we have had to go on holiday in the school holidays

“On the day we headed home we had a three and a half hour drive to get to the ferry terminal in St Malo to check by 10.15am... when we got in the car and started up the satnav it said we would arrive at 10.34am… Whoops” she started school I missed her being around. Sure it was nice to have adult conversations when she went to school but there is a possibility I’m more suited to the childish chat anyway.

usual standard as they were so busy they didn’t have time to do things properly. It was much easier to buy your own and return to the villa to make lunch yourself and relax by the pool. Not quite restaurant standard but I do make a mean Camembert and ham baguette if I say so myself!

DRIVE TIME

On the day we headed home we had a three and a half hour drive to get to the ferry terminal in St Malo to check in at 10.15am. We thought we had left enough time (our son was even considerate enough to wake us up extra early) but when we got in the car and started up the satnav it said we would arrive at 10.34am…

Whoops. No need to panic though the roads were clear, the conditions were dry, and, provided we didn’t stop, or get caught in traffic, we were confident of scraping in on time.

About halfway in we were going to make the cut off point by a couple of minutes - the tension in the car had eased in the knowledge we were almost certainly going to be okay. Then a little voice from the back seat piped up…” Mummy, I feel sick “. A little nausea wasn’t going to stop us I can tell you; instead my wife heroically leaned into the back seat with a towel to catch…well you get the drift. Not the most fragrant of journeys but we did make it to the ferry in time and lessons were definitely learned!!

and were dreading it a bit. Obviously we knew we would have to take out a second mortgage just to get there but it was the amount of people we were worried about. We have been used to having beaches pretty much to ourselves and if we So the holidays come along and wanted some lunch we would just things are back to being somewhat rock up and walk straight to a table normal. By that I mean I am, once where we would be fawned over again, the focus of her little world. by multiple waiters. Not this time…

During term time it is all “Mrs. Teacher there were actually other people on said this” or “Mrs. Teacher said that”, the beach… Actual other human “My best friend did this” or “My best beings who also wanted to have fun friend did that”. Now we are back to on the sand. Come lunchtime it was “Daddy you are fab and the funniest, an absolute nightmare, queues at all Phil Rockliffe most amazing, person ever to grace the restaurants and cafés and, if you this planet” and I love it, even if my were lucky enough to get a table, the wife says it’s because my humour is service and food weren’t up to the

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www.cheverell.co.uk