The West Wilts Magazine - March 2019

MARCH 2019 // ISSUE 115

FREE

West Wilts The

MAGAZINE

James Haskell

WE SPEAK TO THE ENGLAND RUGBY STAR ABOUT HIS NEW GYM

MOTHER’S DAY MENUS

WHERE TO GO TO TREAT YOUR MUM ON 31 MARCH

Step Into Spring OUR 16-PAGE GARDENING SPECIAL KICKS OFF A NEW GROWING SEASON

EASTER ESCAPES

SUNNY BREAKS TO ENJOY OVER THE EASTER HOLIDAYS

+ LOCAL LISTINGS ELMORE KITCHENS DREAM DOORS & MUCH MORE

FOOD & DRINK // PUZ ZLES // HOME & GARDENS // HEALTH // COMMENT

Please enquire at Email: info@formosakitchens.co.uk | Tel: 07970 181502

contents Published by Wired Publishing Editor Lisa Rockliffe Contributors Craig Gates-Mutton, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Andy Diffey, Adam Jacot De Boinod 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: Forsythia in bloom

March 2019 // issue 115

U

nlike other contributors to this magazine, who for some reason enjoy winter, I long for the spring. I was taking a walk through Lacock Abbey the other day and saw carpets of purple crocuses; it was sight to cheer the soul. And so we move on to what must be my favourite feature of the whole year, our spring gardens special! We have 16-pages of gardening inspiration packed with local businesses that can help with anything from planning a new border to putting up fencing. We have experts in every field, and places where you can go to indulge in a bit of horticultural retail therapy too (p39).

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Our gardens feature may inspire you on how to treat your mum, or you may prefer to dine out, in which case our Mother’s Day Menu guide should prove invaluable (p29).

We’ve plenty of inspiration on the home front too and highlight some of the big interior trends to look out for this year (p66).

If you are on the lookout for some Easter sun, our travel feature has some great ideas (p35), whilst our recipe pages offer up some traybake inspiration (p23). That, and loads more besides, just turn the page to get started.

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Enjoy!

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

in this issue...

LOCAL LISTING What’s on in March

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LOCAL NEWS Round up of news & events Warrens Bakery Holburne Museum Bowood House & Gardens

12 18 18 20

FOOD & DRINK Eat the Seasons Traybake Recipes Meet The Chef at The Wheatsheaf

22 23 26

HOMES & GARDENS Elmore Kitchens Dream Doors Interior Look Book Wadswick Green

60 64 66 68

FEATURES Mother’s Day Menu Easter Escapes Step into spring Interview with James Haskell

29 35 39 74

LEGAL & FINANCIAL ABD Care

62

BATH RUGBY Bath U18s

76

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES That’s interesting...

Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku

78 80

COMMENT The Last Word

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REDISCOVER THE LOCK INN CAFÉ!

The Lock Inn Café has been home of the famous Boatman’s Breakfast since1990. But did you also know about our vast lunch, snack and evening menu?

(Our fish & chips are legendary!)

We also have a newly renovated heated canalside deck and garden, are fully licensed with good beers & wines and our kitchen is open all day, every day.

Frome Road, Bradford on Avon BA15 1LE

EAT

PEDAL/PADDLE

SLEEP

01225 868068

01225 867187

01225 865049

www.thelockinn.co.uk

www.towpathtrail.co.uk www.widbrookbarns.co.uk

SHOP

www.ttcycles.co.uk

01225 867187

| events

listings local

MARCH 2019

letter of the alphabet. Expect the JOHN ILLSLEY unexpected and expect it to rhyme!

17 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £25 Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES An evening with John Illsley about the WILTSHIRE MUSIC Box Office: 01225 709887 CENTRE life and times of Dire Straits. melkshamassemblyhall.com Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 COLDPLACE RICH HALL’S HOEDOWN wiltshiremusic.org.uk 28 March, 8pm 8 March, 8pm Tickets: £20 Tickets: £17 LOTTE BETTS-DEAN & ANDREY Coldplace know what is expected Hall’s precision dismantling of the LEBEDEV from a live tribute show - the tenuous relationship between two 6 March, 1pm accuracy, musicianship, dedication countries is as freewheeling and Tickets: £10 (Concs £5) and passion for Coldplay’s music. deadly accurate as ever.

Australian mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean and Russian-born guitarist FAUX FIGHTERS SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY Andrey Lebedev regularly perform 30 March, 8pm 14 March, 2.30pm together around the UK. Tickets: £15 Tickets: from £11 The UK’s ultimate tribute to the Foo This feel good afternoon is mixed with THE NORDIC FIDDLERS BLOC Fighters with a look and sound alike stunning voices, dazzling costumes, Dave Grohl bring the feel of a stadium 6 March, 7.30pm tons of good old-fashioned fun.

Tickets: £16 (Concs £8) gig to The Assembly Hall.

A trio offering a gripping and unique GENESIS LEGACY blend of fiddle music.

MOTHER’S DAY MUSICAL 15 March, 7.30pm AFTERNOON TEA Tickets: £15 BRISTOL ENSEMBLE 31 March, 2pm A celebration show unlike any other.

8 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £22.50 Tickets: £25 (Concs £12.50) Classical crossover group Bel Canto The Ensemble performs some of the invites you and all the wonderful most famous pieces by Ludovico Einaudi. mums to join them for a musical afternoon tea to celebrate Mother’s DUKE ELLINGTON’S SACRED CONCERT Day. 10 March, 4pm TOWN HALL ARTS Tickets: £18 (Concs £9) Trowbridge Town Hall, BA14 8EQ Mike Daniels cooks up a sumptuous Tel: 01225 774306 programme of Duke Ellington’s trowbridgearts.com legendary Sacred Concert featuring international jazz vocalist Tina May. ENSONGLOPEDIA OF SCIENCE 16 March, 3pm MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS Tickets: from £8 15 March, 7.30pm Rich Hall, Melksham Assembly Hall A song about science for each Tickets: £18 (Concs £9)

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL

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

| events With their gritty take on this traditional and sacred artform, Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers push the boundaries of this ancient Japanese spectacle.

LIVING TOGETHER 13 – 16 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £11 Corsham’s AdHoc Theatre Company is delighted to be concluding Alan Ayckbourn’s ingenious comic trilogy, The Norman Conquests.

CHLOE HANSLIP & DANNY DRIVER 16 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 (Concs £10) There’s a wholly infectious conviction, IVO GRAHAM: MOTION SICKNESS spontaneity and panache about these 28 March, 8pm superbly accomplished performances. Tickets: £12 A feisty new show about facing WILTSHIRE YOUTH JAZZ the future, named after Ivo’s fourth ORCHESTRA favourite Hot Chip song.

17 March, 3pm Tickets: £15 (Concs £7.50) HOW DOES THIS POLITICS THING The WYJO bursts into life with WORK THEN? an effervescent and energised 30 March, 2pm performance of beloved jazz classics. Tickets: £8 (Concs £7) Politics is boring. Politics is complicated.

TROWBRIDGE SYMPHONY Politics is for adults. Rubbish! Politics is ORCHESTRA actually super important and can be 23 March, 7.30pm made really fun, if you know how.

Tickets: £17.50 (Concs £9) The TSO celebrates English music of MERLIN THEATRE the 20th Century.

Bath Rd, Frome BA11 2HG Box Office: 01373 465949 POUND ARTS merlintheatre.co.uk

CENTRE

Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 poundarts.org.uk

LA FILLE DU REGIMENT – THE MET 3 March, 2pm Tickets: £16 (Concs £10.50) Donizetti’s comic opera is a delight, a tale of secret identities, long-lost family, and murky pasts.

LEWIS CLARK & THE ESSENTIALS 7 March, 8pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) Pound Arts associate artist Lewis Clark ALAN CARR: WORK IN PROGRESS records his new album LIVE in the 6 March, 8pm auditorium.

Tickets: £12.50 Join Alan Carr, for a night of work in JO HARROP SINGS PEGGY LEE progress comedy with support from 8 March, 7.30pm Angela Barnes.

Tickets: £15 (Concs £13) Sinatra called her ‘regal’, Duke METAMORPHOSIS – BEYOND THE Ellington caller her ‘the queen’. Jo HORIZON Harrop pays tribute to the sultriest 9 March, 7.45pm songstress of all, Peggy Lee. Tickets: £16 The critically-acclaimed Beyond The LUKE WRIGHT, POET LAUREATE Horizon present their haunting, twisted 9 March, 8pm reimagining of Franz Kafka’s absurd Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) tale.

Luke really does care about Britain, so he’s on a mission to write poems QUEEN C*** SACRED OR PROFANE that might be able to unite a nation 16 March, 7.45pm divided by austerity and Brexit.

Tickets: £12.50 (Concs £10.50)

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The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc, WMC

Absurd, feminist, character comedy – with Virgin Mary, Theresa May, Burt the drag king, Frida Kahlo and more.

Reclaiming the body – joyfully, darkly, anarchically.

TWENTY 23 March, 7.45pm Tickets: £16 (Concs £11) Yorke Dance Project celebrates 20 years of performing exceptional dance.

THE ATHENAEUM CENTRE

18-20 High St, Warminster, BA12 9AE Box Office: 01985 213891 theath.org.uk THE LADY IN THE VAN 7 – 9 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) This dramatic yet colourful tale is brought to life like never before at The Warminster Athenaeum Centre.

A STAR IS BORN (Cert 15) 13 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 Seasoned musician Jackson Maine discovers, and falls in love with, struggling artist Ally.

FROME MEMORIAL THEATRE

Christchurch St West, Frome, BA11 1EB Tel: 01373 462795 GAELFORCE DANCE 16 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £22 (Concs from £18) A show filled with intricate Irish choreography, thundering rhythms and enchanting melodies.

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

CHEESE &GRAIN

FRI 1ST MAR 8PM SAT 2ND MAR 7PM SUN 3RD MAR 7PM WED 6TH MAR 9AM THU 7TH MAR 7PM FRI 8TH MAR 8PM THU 14TH MAR 7.30PM FRI 15TH MAR 8PM SAT 16TH MAR 7.30PM SUN 17TH MAR 10AM THU 21ST MAR 8PM FRI 22ND MAR 7PM SAT 23RD MAR 9AM SAT 23RD MAR 5.30PM FRI 29TH MAR 8PM SAT 30TH MAR 8PM WED 3RD APR 7PM SAT 6TH APR 8PM TUE 9TH APR 7PM

BOX OFFICE: 01373

455420

MARKET YARD, FROME, SOMERSET BA11 1BE

www.cheeseandgrain.com

LIMEHOUSE LIZZY £19.50 S CLUB & 5IVE £25 ADV MAGPIE MARKET FREE ADMISSION FROME FLEA MARKET FREE ADMISSION DANNY DORLING BREXIT & THE END OF EMPIRE £10 KRIS BARRAS BAND £16.50 BETH ORTON £20 FLEETWOOD BAC £16.50 ADV ST PATRICK’S DAY PARTY £10 ADV FROME RECORD FAIR FREE ADMISSION THE SOUTH £25 RETRO ELECTRO A TRIBUTE TO THE 80S £14 ADV MAKERS MARKET FREE ADMISSION FROME UKELELE FESTIVAL £16 (FULL FESTIVAL) LIVEWIRE - THE AC/DC SHOW £16.50 ADV THE LEVELLERS £27.50 SABA DOUGLAS HAMILTON: A LIFE WITH ELEPHANTS £22.50 RUBY TURNER £25 ADV RESPECT TO ARETHA £26 ADV

Kris Barras Band

The South

Ruby Turner

| events RULE THE WORLD WITH TONY LEWIS AS ROBBIE 23 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 (Concs from £18) Recognized as the No.1 Take That tribute act in the world. Joined on stage by Tony Lewis as Robbie Williams.

AN EVENING WITH JASPER CARROTT & ALISTAIR MCGOWAN 26 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £27.50 Comedy legends Jasper Carrott and Alistair McGowan split the bill and your sides with a night of comedy, stand-up and impressions.

LACOCK ABBEY

Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LG Tel: 01249 730459 nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Normal admission applies unless stated SPRING FLOWERS AT LACOCK Throughout February FREE Escape for a winter walk around the grounds at Lacock.

CHEESE & GRAIN

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

KRIS BARRAS BAND 8 March, 8pm Tickets: £16.50 The UK based guitarist has extensive experience touring as both a solo-artist & session-musician.

FOS BROTHERS 13 March, 8.30pm Tickets: £TBC A stirring fusion of original and traditional songs on hypnotic acoustic guitars to 21st century dance grooves.

BETH ORTON 14 March, 7.30pm Tickets: £21.50 An English singer-songwriter, known for her ‘folktronica’ sound, which mixes

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elements of folk and electronica.

Beth Orton, Cheese & Grain

FLEETWOOD BAC 15 March, 8pm Tickets: £16.50 Fleetwood Bac were the world’s first and are regarded as the UKs most authentic Fleetwood Mac tribute show.

THREE PILGRIMS 20 March, 8.30pm Tickets: £TBC Embracing both British and American folk and blues traditions, Three Pilgrims’ lyrics are bittersweet, edgy and human.

THE SOUTH 21 March, 8pm Tickets: £25 An impressive 9 piece featuring former members of The Beautiful South including singer Alison Wheeler.

entertainment showcasing the remarkable band Queen.

MADONNA + 80’s TRIBUTE 23 March The look and sounds of the musical icon through the 80’s.

ABOUT A GIRL 30 March About A Girl offer a broad spectrum of numbers, crossing the age divide and catering for all tastes and occasions.

RETRO ELECTRO 22 March, 7pm Tickets: £14 An 80’s covers band playing classics from Depeche Mode, Prince, David Bowie, Simple Minds, Human League, Tears for Fears, Spandau Ballet, ABC, Gary Numan and many more.

BRADFORD-ONAVON FOLK CLUB

THE CHRISTIANS 24 March, 8pm Tickets: £25 Renowned for an endless string of soulful yet socially aware hits, The Christians enjoyed huge acclaim.

FLY YETI FLY 12 March, 8pm

THE PRESTBURY SPORTS BAR

The Close, Warminster, BA12 9AL Tel: 01985 847070 prestburysportsbar.com Bands start at 9pm and entry is FREE PEOPLE LIKE US 9 March An exciting semi-acoustic three (sometimes four!) piece covers band.

FREDDIE MERCURY TRIBUTE 16 March Gary’s Freddie Mercury/Queen Tribute Show is an unforgettable evening’s

Cellar Bar, Swan Hotel, Bradford on Avon boafolkclub.org.uk SINGAROUND 5 & 19 March, 8pm FREE

REG MEUROSS 26 March, 8pm A welcome back to one of the club’s great favourites, and a regular visitor too

VILLAGE PUMP FRIDAY FOLK

The Lamb Inn, Trowbridge BA14 8BN villagepump.org.uk SALLY IRONMONGER PLUS THE SHIP’S CAT 1 March, 8pm Tickets: £10 Outrageously funny at times, at others poignant and reflective.

OPEN MIC 15 March, 8pm Tickets: £3

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

events |

OTHERS

The South, Cheese & Grain

PALM COURT TRIO CONCERT – FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE Trio Paradis (piano, cello and violin) 7 March, 10.45am Free admission with retiring collection Holy Trinity Church, Church Street, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LW Each concert is themed and includes all kinds of musical styles. Cakes and biscuits are on sale, along with tea & coffee.

WILTSHIRE FARMERS’ MARKETS

BRADFORD ON AVON ARTS ASSOCIATION OUTING TO OXFORD 27 March, (leaving BOA) 9.15am Tickets: £17 For details contact Dalyce on 01225 864159 or email trips@boaarts.org

BATH CONSORT PRESENT PERGOLESI’S STABAT MATER Holy Trinity Church, Bradford-onAvon, BA15 1LW 29 March, 7.30pm ACOUSTIC OAK Tickets: £12.50 The Royal Oak, Corsham, SN13 0HF Some of the most beautiful solos and 7, 14, 21 & 28 March duets from J S Bach’s St Matthew and Tickets: £2 Singers and spotlight nights. For more St Luke Passions and Handel’s Messiah and La Resurrezione. info go to The Acoustic Oak FB page.

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

LET LOVE BLOOM THIS SPRING For a professional & personal service call 0800 180 4788 carolinecrowther.com

For all your sewing needs, covering Frome, Westbury, Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge and surrounding areas.

• Alterations • Repairs • Custom Tailoring • Curtains • Soft Furnishings

*plus VAT

Advertise here from as little as FIXED PRICE CLOTHING QUOTATION PRIOR £15 per week* & SOFT TO STARTING WORK. FURNISHINGS Call 01225 807775 or email m 07455 913796 e fashionv@hotmail.com Noandy@wired-publishing.co.uk job too small! send your listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| local news

roundup

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

A CELEBRATION OF BENTLEY 1 MARCH - 6 MAY Haynes International Motor Museum is celebrating 100 years of distinguished motoring and travelling in style with their ‘Celebration of Bentley’ exhibit.

To many, the name Bentley immediately evokes images of large green vintage cars racing at Brooklands or Le Mans and the wealthy, dashing ‘Bentley Boys’ who drove them to many glorious victories. But there is so much more to a story that began in 1919.

unusual stories and surprising facts which will introduce you to the quirky characters behind this famous and much loved motoring marque.

of a long line of some of the most advanced and beautiful motor cars the world has ever seen.

The museum’s celebration will bring together a finely selected collection that represents the heritage of the Bentley brand throughout the century, all on display in the Museum’s Millennium Hall.

BRING YOUR OWN BENTLEY

The museum is also inviting Bentley owners and enthusiasts to join in on the Sunday 3 March, 7 April and 5 May for their Haynes Breakfast Club.

For more details visit the website.

Join the Museum’s Curator for interactive floor talks throughout the event, which will uncover some

• himm.co.uk Bentley is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2019

During its first century the Bentley marque has seen highs and lows, successes and failures, changes of ownership, the involvement of many fascinating characters, significant racing success and the creation

“To many, the name Bentley evokes images of large green vintage cars racing at Brooklands or Le Mans and the wealthy, dashing ‘Bentley Boys’”

FAIRFIELD FARM COLLEGE ANNUAL EGG HUNT The annual egg hunt is a student-led event

The Fairfield Annual Egg Hunt is being held on Friday 29 March 2019 at the college in Dilton Marsh between 10am and 4pm. This is a student led event where the students can put their ideas in place and plan how the day will run.

This year, find four different coloured eggs in the play area and animal walk to claim your prize. Find the Golden Egg and win a £20 Argos

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Voucher. All that, plus a fantastic cake, made by Occasional Cakes

by Ali Wilton, will also be raffled on the day.

After all the egg hunting fun, be sure to stop off and refuel at the Fairfield Farm Shop and Café, where you enjoy some delicious lunch or perhaps some scrummy cake. It’s a great day out for the family.

• ffc.ac.uk

local news |

Goughs Solicitors has helped raise over £14,000 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance

Wiltshire based law firm Goughs Solicitors are proud to have raised over £14,000 for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Staff have spent the last 2 years fundraising and hosting staff events to raise the sum, and since the beginning of their partnership with the charity Goughs has raised in excess of £30,000 for the service.

Lots of the money raised by Goughs went towards the new air base for Wiltshire Air Ambulance in Semington, allowing their helicopter, aircrew and charity team all to be on the same site. Wiltshire Air Ambulance provides a vital helicopter emergency medical service throughout the county, saving the lives of people living, working and travelling in Wiltshire. It currently costs £3.75 million per year to keep the air ambulance operational and this is funded almost entirely by public donations.

charity curry events, running office tucks shops and many more events to raise the money.

Kevin Basnett, Managing Partner at Goughs Solicitors commented “We are very pleased to have raised this money for such a worthwhile cause. Wiltshire Air Ambulance undertakes essential lifesaving work, day and night, for the benefit of everyone in Wiltshire - we are extremely lucky to have such a valuable service in our county”.

Valerie Whistler, partnerships coordinator for Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “We are very grateful to Goughs Solicitors, who are long-standing and very dedicated supporters of our charity. Goughs were one of the original members of our 100 Club for local businesses, they helped us significantly during the Airbase Appeal and, to date, have raised in excess of £30,000 to support their local air ambulance. Wiltshire Air Ambulance receives no direct Government funding or National Lottery grants, so relies on generous donations from its supporters and local businesses like Goughs to continue its lifesaving service.”

Over the course of the two years, Goughs held and participated in a number of events in support of Wiltshire Air Ambulance, including the ‘Goughs Golf Day’, which was attended by over 60 guests from the Wiltshire business community, and which raised over £5,000. The law firm also participated in the Corsham 10k, • wiltshireairambulance.co.uk

WHAT IS LOST. . .

WHAT HAS BEEN ‘What is lost…What has been’ is a photographic exhibition from 2016 Hasselblad Masters Award winner John Paul Evans. This tragicomic series of work comes to the Fox Talbot Museum gallery as it reopens following refurbishment work in late March. His metaphoric photo series examine various points of view regarding gay marriage - with the pictures of ‘otherness’ fluctuating between the poignant, the comic, and a potentially disturbing presence in the domestic space. The exhibition, featuring various bodies of work, will be on show from 23 March until 7 July.

• nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Til Death Do Us Part 6

© National Trust Images / John Paul Evans

GOUGHS RAISES OVER £14,000 FOR WILTSHIRE AIR AMBULANCE

TUNE @ NOON RETURNS! The acclaimed monthly lunchtime concert series Tune@Noon, run by Wiltshire Rural Music, returns for another season, celebrating the best in live performance from some of our most talented local musicians.

From pianists, clarinet and horn soloists to the incredible Hilperton Recorder Players, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention cake and a cuppa, all for just £5. Find out more about the upcoming locations on the website • wiltshireruralmusic.co.uk THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| local news

THE VINTAGE BAZAAR

I

t’s time to blow away those winter cobwebs with a bit of retail therapy at The Vintage Bazaar. These lovely events have built up quite a reputation with designers, makers and lovers of all things vintage and handmade. It’s the very best place to source decorative antiques, stunning vintage clothing and accessories, French brocante, antique textiles and beautiful handmade delights. The handpicked dealers will be bringing exciting new stock from all over the UK and Europe.

16 March at The Corn Exchange, Devizes, Wiltshire and the second on Saturday 27 April at The Cheese and Grain, Frome, Somerset. Each event presents a different array of the very best vintage, antique and handmade

stallholders. More information can be found on their dedicated FB and Instagram pages as well as their dedicated blog.

• thevintagebazaar.blogspot.com The Vintage Bazaar is a great place to find stunning clothing and accessories

There are two spring dates for your diaries. The first on Saturday

“It’s the very best place to source decorative antiques, stunning vintage clothing and accessories”

2019 TALKS AT LOWDEN

Helena Attlee

Andy McConnell

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WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL

WEDNESDAY 5 JUNE

Helena Attlee, the author of ‘The Land Where Lemons Grow, The Story of Italy & Its Citrus Fruit’ will be hosting a Talk & Lunch. Helena will take listeners on a surprising journey through Italy’s culinary, cultural and political past, drawing on her awardwinning book

‘Downton Abbey Comes to Lowden’.

The 8th Countess of Carnarvon will be coming to Lowden for a Talk & Lunch about what it is like to live in Highclere Castle today. Highclere has now become synonymous with Downton Abbey the TV series. Lady Carnarvon will share the history, the visitors, the art of entertaining over the past 150 years, how lifestyle has changed and, in some cases, remained the same.

WEDNESDAY 8 MAY Lowden will be welcoming Andy McConnell. Andy is one of the country’s leading authorities on glassware and a regular face on television, featuring on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow. Andy will be hosting a Talk & Lunch entitled ‘5000 years of Glass in 60 Minutes’. He is a witty, spontaneous, enthusiastic speaker who has never delivered the same talk twice.

All the talks start at midday and cost £25 to include a two-course lunch.

Tickets to all the events are available at the garden centre main tills, by calling 01225 702345 or via email: info@lowdengardencentre.com.

• lowdengardencentre.com

The Vintage Bazaar

Saturday 16th March The Corn Exchange, Devizes 9am - 3pm

Decorative antiques, French brocante, vintage textiles/fashion & handmade delights

thevintagebazaar.blogspot.com

Helena Attlee

TALK & LUNCH

Wednesday 10th April, Midday ‘The Land Where Lemons Grow’ with Helena Attlee

Helena will take us on a surprising journey through Italy’s culinary, cultural & political past, drawing on her award-winning book ‘The Land Where Lemons Grow’.

LATER IN THE YEAR...

Talk & Lunch - Wednesday 8th May, Midday ‘5000 Years of Glass in 60 Minutes’ with Andy McConnell.

Talk & Lunch - Wednesday 5th June, Midday ‘Downton Abbey Comes to Lowden’ with The 8th Countess of Carnarvon.

Tickets for all talks are £25 to include a 2-Course Lunch.

Tickets are available through the main tills at Lowden Garden Centre

Lowden Garden Centre, Bath Road, Shaw, SN12 8EZ T 01225 702345 E info@lowdengardencentre.com www.lowdengardencentre.com

REAL ALES & LIVE MUSIC

image © Steve Nash

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.

EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY Real Ales | Beer Garden | Pub Games Real Log Fires | Parking

WWM058

LIVE MUSIC

Tel 01225 865876 Find us on Facebook * NOTVALID IN CONJUNCTIONWITH OTHER OFFERS.VALID ON SATURDAYS BEFORE 8PM. EXPIRY DATE 30.04.19. ROAR

✃✃

Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA

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

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 (if old enough), chipped, and looking for loving new homes Open Daily 10:00 - 12:15 & 14:00 - 16:00

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

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

| local news

CORNISH DELIGHTS AT WARRENS

W

arrens Bakery is the oldest Cornish pasty maker in the world and also provides delicious artisan breads and confectionery, some of which are freshly finished in store every morning, as are the sandwiches, paninis and toasties. Warrens was also voted the No1 Craft Bakery in the UK for 2018.

Last year Acorn Holdings (SW) Ltd was given the opportunity to sign a franchise deal with Warrens Bakery to open a minimum of six stores across the Wiltshire area. Wiltshire was chosen as it reminded the owners of the lovely market towns in Devon and Cornwall where around 60 Warrens’ stores are successfully trading and have been since 1860.Acorn is thrilled to have opened their second Warrens Bakery in Fore Street, Trowbridge,

The team at the new Warrens Bakery in Trowbridge

after the successful launch of their first store in Melksham in November last year. Among the baked treats on offer are their hand crimped Cornish pasties made in St. Just in Cornwall.

You can also enjoy great coffee, teas, hot chocolates, cold drinks and savoury snacks too and they are happy to take orders for whatever you fancy over the phone and have it ready for you to collect. They even do

tasty breakfasts to eat in or take away.

So far the welcome they’ve received has been fantastic, with lots of support from the local community. Not only that, but later this month they’ll also be opening a third store in Devizes!

So next time you’re in Melksham, Trowbridge or Devizes why not try their Cornish delights?

• warrensbakery.co.uk

A CORNER OF A FOREIGN FIELD

G

eorge Shaw makes remarkable paintings of Tile Hill, the council estate in Coventry where he grew up in the 1970s and 80s, that reveal the latent beauty even in the most mundane subject matter. Shaw’s hyper-realistic paintings record the run-down and often over-looked aspects of modern life. Where landscape painters such as Constable and Turner found majesty and the sublime in pastoral settings, Shaw does so in a world of abandoned garages, huge England flags in windows and foreboding paths through suburban woodland.

career from 1996 to the present day, including several works never previously seen in the UK. Much of the exhibition focuses on scenes of the Tile Hill estate and the ancient woods surrounding it.

His work casts an eye on both the prosaic, quotidian and ordinary.

As the Holburne show reveals, Shaw is amongst our most important contemporary artists, documenting everyday life through urban landscapes, albeit devoid of people, pets and wildlife. Rather it is the objects they leave behind, damage or display in windows that catches his eye.

‘A Corner of a Foreign Field’ is the first major retrospective of Shaw’s work, and Bath’s Holburne Museum is the only European venue for this George says,“Bath is such an historic exhibition. It will feature 20 paintings city and Holburne Museum seems and 50 drawings that span Shaw’s so grand I’m quite humbled to think

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of my paintings being on display.

It’s quite easy to lose yourself in these environments. I hope my paintings, of a place without the weight of history, bring something of the familiar and the ordinary and a reminder that real life goes on and has its own beauty.”

• holburne.org

Ash Wednesday by George Shaw

Voted the UK’s Top Caft Bakery 2018 and as the world’s oldest Cornish pasty maker, we are devoted to baking. Nothing makes us happier than using fresh ingredients & our hand crafted artisan bread to make delicious sandwiches, toasties and paninis. We also offer a range of tasty confectionery - including our renowned saffron cake and tea treats - in our new Wiltshire stores.

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30 Fore Street Trowbridge BA14 8EW 01225 938154

warrensbakery.co.uk

19 The Brittox Devizes SN10 1AJ 01380 699715

fti

| local news

2019 AT BOWOOD

Chris Evans’s RunFestRun is featured among great variety of events confirmed for the new season at Bowood House & Gardens.

Bowood has an array of wonderful events coming throughout 2019

type. There will be private exhibitors and club stands too.

The open-air ‘Classic Ibiza’ concert will bring some of the best of the White Island’s dance tunes to orchestral life on 3 August. The Urban Soul Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Hussey, will take to the stage that looks out across the parkland while picnickers will head into full party mode as the sun sets over the lake.

A

s Bowood House & Gardens re-opens for its 2019 season on Saturday 30 March, a number of returning diary favourites and many new treats are lining up from spring through to autumn.

Truly special occasions are to be featured at Bowood, home to the Lansdowne family since 1754, from running and classical car festivals to creative workshops, a display of big farm machinery to an open air music concert. Surrounded by 2,000 acres of Grade 1 listed Capability Brown parkland and with Bowood House’s stately facade as a backdrop, this year's events at Bowood will deliver with striking impact.

An exciting new highlight is 31 May - 2 June’s RunFestRun as recently announced by Virgin Radio DJ Chris Evans as a follow-up to the success of his CarFest. Bowood has been selected for this brand new family-friendly, three-day camping and running

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festival that is being billed as ‘Britain’s biggest running party’. Routes will range from an immersive 2.5K fun run through to a timed half marathon.

Paula Radcliffe and Steve Cram are both signed up and there’ll be a line-up of well-known bands and DJs among the event’s many activities.

“Truly special occasions are to be featured at Bowood from running and classical car festivals to creative workshops” Back for a second year, will be the spring Classic Car & Motorcycle Show on 5 May and then again on 18 August. Presented by leading classic vehicle events organiser Classic Shows, a spectacular day of motoring heritage - ideal for enthusiasts, families and day trippers - can be expected. Vintage, classic and modern classic vehicles will be displayed, according to age and

Other returning events include the Tractor Ted Big Machines Weekend over the Spring Bank Holiday (25 - 27 May) and September’s Wiltshire Game and Country Fair (28 & 29). Also making the most of Bowood’s wide open space and stunning scenery will be the charity 10km Fun Run (24 March - a few days ahead of the House and Gardens’ reopening), the LPS Events Triathlon (29 & 30 June) and the LPS Events Duathlon (14 October).

A Matt Inwood Instagram Workshop is confirmed for Monday 8 July while other experts will be welcomed too to lead photography, gardening and creative writing workshops.

2019’s series of midweek Walled Garden Tours begin on 24 April while the Woodland Garden season starts three days later. Running throughout the season, Bowood House’s exhibition, ‘Victoria, Albert and the Lansdownes’ will mark the 200th anniversary of the births of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Bowood House & Gardens will open daily from 30 March – 3 November.

• bowood.org

| 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...

L

ast March (2018) I was very frustrated about how much rainfall we had been having.

This is different this year as we have enjoyed fairly dry, and extremely mild, weather for the time of year. Definitely higher than normal temperatures. This has allowed our growers to get on with preparing the soil for spring planting, especially our new season carrots. The winter is not finished yet and there could be a huge sting in the tail! Let’s hope it is not as bad as last year with the late snowfall!

If you would like to take advantage of these unusual conditions and grow some vegetables or salads of your own, you can plant or sow broad beans, carrots, parsnips, early beetroot, salad onions, lettuce and radish.

You can cover it with fleece to help warm the soil up and

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protect from cold winds and frost.

We still have last season’s leeks, purple sprouting, savoy cabbage, beetroot

of last year. We sell 6 different varieties of potatoes to suit our chefs’ needs.

We have varieties for mashing, chipping, roasting and boiling as we are the experts; we used to grow over 50 acres every year ourselves.

“we have enjoyed fairly dry, and extremely mild, weather for If you would like any advice on the time of year. varieties to use for your own cooking, This has allowed our growers to get on with do not hesitate to email me. preparing the soil for COMPETITION TIME spring planting” If you can send me a list of 10 and curly kale, we may even see the first deliveries of asparagus from Ross on Wye, more about this wonderful crop in the next edition.

You may see potatoes start to rise in price as they have been twice the price

different varieties of potatoes by email, and you are the first to do so, we will give you a tour of our premises and a lovely big box of local vegetables to take home!

Neil neil@lovejoyswholesale.com @lovejoysuk • lovejoyswholesale.com

tea time traybakes

recipes |

Simple family suppers all baked in the oven in a single tray.

Saves on time and washing up! These recipes come courtesy of Tesco.

CHICKEN DRUMSTICK TRAYBAKE Serves 4

✃

Ingredients 1kg chicken drumsticks 3 small red onions, cut into quarters 2 peppers, seeded and chopped into chunks 400g small baby potatoes, halved 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp herbes de provence 250g cherry tomatoes

Method Preheat the oven to 200°C, 180°C fan.

In a large bowl, toss the chicken, onions, peppers and potatoes with the oil and herbes de provence.

Spread out on a large baking tray (or two smaller ones) and roast in the oven for 30 mins.

After 30 mins, add the tomatoes to the tray and cook for another 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through with no pink meat showing.

Divide between plates and drizzle over the tray juices to serve.

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| recipes

VEGGIE OPTION

Veggie sausage and butternut squash traybake Serves 4

3 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp hoisin sauce 2 limes, 1 juiced and 1 cut into wedges 1.5cm piece ginger, grated 4 pork chops 250g basmati rice, rinsed 2 leeks, trimmed and sliced 1 lemongrass stalk, trimmed and finely chopped 250g pack pak choi, roughly chopped 800ml chicken stock 15g fresh coriander, roughly chopped Method Mix the finely chopped chilli, soy, hoisin, lime juice and ginger together in a non-metallic bowl.

Add the pork chops and turn to coat. Cover and leave to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hrs. Preheat the oven to 220°C, 200°C fan.

Ingredients 500g pack frozen butternut squash 2 red apples, cut horizontally into slices, seeds removed 4 garlic cloves 3 rosemary sprigs 8 vegetarian sausages 50g feta

Add the sausages to the dish, toss with the veg and return to the oven for a further 18-20 mins or until the Mix the rice, leeks, lemongrass, pak vegetables are tender and golden and the sausages piping hot. Crumble choi and stock in a deep roasting tin. Top with the pork and all the over the feta to serve. marinade, then bake for 30 mins until the pork is cooked through and the rice is tender.

For the glaze 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp cider vinegar 2 tsp honey 2 tsp wholegrain mustard

Serves 4

Method Preheat the oven to 220°C, 200°C fan.

Put the squash, apples, garlic and 2 of the rosemary sprigs in a roasting dish. Finely chop the leaves from the third sprig and add to the dish, discarding the stalk.

spicy pork chop traybake

Ingredients 2 red chillies, 1 finely chopped and 1 sliced

Garnish with the roughly chopped coriander and sliced chilli. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over.

Find more traybake recipe ideas at: realfood.tesco.com

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✃

To make the glaze, whisk all of the ingredients in a bowl. Season, then pour into the roasting dish. Toss to coat the vegetables, then roast for 25 mins.

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

Easter Orders Now Being Taken

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 CHOCOLATES & FUDGE FINE WINE, LOCAL ALE & CIDER PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS GIFT HAMPERS www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk TEL: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ

BREAKFASTS, SNACKS, LUNCHES, AFTERNOON TEAS

now open for spring & summer!

Local, homemade, freshly prepared delicious food in beautiful surrounds Event catering also available.

Call for details on 07595 503337 or email avonfieldkitchen@gmail.com

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday closed Avonfield Gardens, The Nursery, Marsh Road, Hilperton BA14 7PL

✃

*******Our cakes and traybakes can now be found in Wiltshire-based cafes & independent retailers*******

| food & drink

MEET THE CHEF

EDDY RAINS, head chef at The Wheatsheaf Combe Hay, talks local suppliers, signature dishes and cooking comfort food.

Eddy and his team produce original and mouthwatering food

What is your favourite dish on the current menu?

Halibut poached in red wine, with seared foie gras and fondant potato.

It’s our take on a ‘steak Rossini’.

What is the most memorable event you have cooked for?

Cooking for Gordon Ramsay at the Scholarship in 2001.

a Wednesday afternoon when the clocks go back.

What’s your favourite kitchen gadget?

Don’t use many gadgets, so I’m going to say my fish slice.

What is your guilty pleasure?

An espresso martini.

Which local pubs and restaurants do To make a reservation at you like visiting on a day off?

The Wheatsheaf call 01225 833504.

The Porter in Bath or The Redan Inn in Chilcompton.

• wheatsheafcombehay.com

What was your first job in catering?

Commis at The Bindon Country House Hotel, Langford Budville, Somerset.

Where have you worked before?

Bindon, Castle House Hotel (Hereford), Bohemia (Jersey), Kauri Cliffs Golf Lodge (New Zealand), Peterstone Court (Brecon) and The Bath Priory.

What is the first dish you mastered?

It would take a long time to really master a dish, I keep tweaking and changing them all the time. However, I have a charred mackerel dish, with apple and horseradish puree and apple and watercress slaw, which I think is a signature dish. I use the watercress from the bed in Combe Hay and this dish was well received in the South West Chef of the year.

Do you have any favourite local suppliers?

The meat we get from Walter Rose in Devizes is absolutely top notch.

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

I’m a chef with young children, I very rarely have friends for dinner! If I do though it would have to be comfort food, like a lasagne or a big Thai curry.

The Wheatsheaf has its own kitchen garden

Do you have any special offers running in the spring?

Tuesdays is Steak Night - 2 Flat Iron steaks and a bottle of house red for £36. Thursday is Mussels Night - Moules Frites and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for £14.50. And we’ll be firing up the pizza oven on The Wheatsheaf is situated in large terraced gardens overlooking the village of Combe Hay

Enjoy The Great Atmosphere At

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

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

4 ever changing real ale pumps, ciders and perrys on draught plus lots of bottled options showcasing the best of local and national independent breweries.

CAMRA RURAL PUB OF THE YEAR 2018!

Plus quality wines, lagers and spirits & traditional bar games.

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

Daily Market Menu

Tuesday – Saturday, Lunch & Dinner

Two Courses £20 Three Courses £26

Steak Night

Flat Iron Steak, Skinny Chips, Peppercorn Sauce & a Bottle of House Red or White Wine

£36 for Two People

The Wheatsheaf Combe Hay Bath BA2 7EG info@wheatsheafcombehay.com 01225 833504 www.wheatsheafcombehay.com

WINNER: BEST PUB

We’re open from 9.30am for coffee and breakfasts

BOA BUSINESS AWARDS 2018

The George is the perfect place to visit for local ales, top quality wines & fantastic food from our award-winning chef Alex Venables.

MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH

SUPPER CLUB

*****Now catering for small intimate weddings in The Map Room*****

THURSDAY 28TH MARCH, 4 COURSES £25 Poachers’ broth, Puff pastry vol-au-vent with crushed peas, poached egg, hollandaise, Duck, prunes and Armagnac, Rhubarb & ginger.

SUNDAY 31ST MARCH... BOOK NOW! Includes a floral gift for all ladies.

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

THE

WESTBROOK

Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2EE

tel 01380 850418

www.westbrookbromham.co.uk

WINNER OF PARLIAMENTARY PUB OF THE YEAR FOR THE SOUTH WEST OF ENGLAND!!

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

food & drink |

The Farmhouse Inn, Southwick

MOTHER'S DAY MENUS Wondering where to take your mum this year?

Here are a few ideas on great destinations to enjoy a Mother's Day celebration lunch. All these venues are popular, so early booking is ESSENTIAL!

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| food & drink

THE FARMHOUSE Frome Rd, Southwick, Trowbridge BA14 9QD

This old former farmhouse became a pub nearly 40 years ago and has been a busy rural community pub ever since. Run by Janet and Adam, over the past 5 years the pub has been awarded the ‘Special recognition pub of the year’ and ‘Community pub of the year’ (both awarded by Wadworth). They offer home cooked food served 7 days a week, including all day Saturday and Sunday, and have a very large selection on the menu. For Mother’s Day they do two sittings 12-12.30pm and 3-3.30pm, offering their popular Sunday lunch menu, where there’s a choice of two meats with all the trimmings for £10.95 and a child portion for £6.50. They also have a wide selection of desserts and a large choice of Marshfield ice-cream to tickle your taste buds!

The Methuen will be serving a traditional Sunday lunch

As well as Mother’s Day, there’s also their Thursday Supper club to look forward to. This month’s evening takes place on 28 March, and offers four courses for £25. The menu for the next event is a poacher’s broth to begin, followed by a puff pastry vol au vent with crushed peas, poached hen’s egg and pesto 01225 764366 | farmhousesouthwick.co.uk Hollandaise. For main there is slowly braised duck leg with prunes and THE GEORGE 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1AQ Armagnac and new season rhubarb and ginger twice-baked soufflé is Sunday lunch at The George is a being served for pudding. There will popular affair in itself, and over Mother’s Day they are making it extra also be a wine flight to enjoy with each course at £15. special by offering a floral gift for all 01225 865650 | thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk ladies. Their special menu offers 2 courses for £24.50 and 3 courses for THE METHUEN ARMS £30.95. Meats on offer include beef 2 High St, Corsham SN13 0HB sirloin, slow roast shoulder of lamb, Ash is your host over at The Methuen herb roast Chicken and slow roast Arms, an award-winning inn where belly pork. There is also a panache hospitality meets fabulous food and of Cornish fish available for those drink at a relaxed pace. The kitchen is who prefer seafood and an Alsace onion tart with Brie is the vegetarian headed up by Head Chef Leigh Evans, formerly of Combe Grove Manor, The option. Children aged 10 and under can also enjoy 2 courses for just £10. Chequers and The Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath. The food is locally "Sunday lunch at The sourced, of which much is home grown, and it’s very much a destination George is a popular for those who love good food as well affair in itself, and over as a popular community pub.

Mother’s Day they are making it extra special by offering a floral gift for all ladies."

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The Methuen will be serving a traditional Sunday lunch on Mother’s Day, so expect the likes of roasted

rump of lamb, breast of Castlemead chicken, roast belly pork, and Ruby Red sirloin of beef – all served with their traditional accompaniments as well as Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, honey glazed carrots and parsnips, cheesy leeks, seasonal greens and gravy. Be sure to save some room for pudding!

01249 717060 | themethuenarms.com

THE POPLARS Shop Ln, Wingfield, Trowbridge BA14 9LN

As spring arrives and Mother’s Day draws closer, a warm welcome awaits you at The Poplars in Wingfield.

It is a family run quintessentially English pub/restaurant, part of the Wadworth Estate, which prides itself on serving great food in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. That’s why it has been awarded the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for most of the past decade. Delicious home cooked food can be enjoyed in a choice of 2 restaurants, either overlooking the cricket pitch and garden on a sunny day or getting cosy in the lounge. On offer on Mothering Sunday is a lunch menu and daily specials board along with a choice of three succulent meats sirloin of beef, breast of chicken or leg of lamb all served with homemade Yorkshire puddings & all the trimmings, priced at £12.50.

THE

Farmhouse INN

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Traditional family run village pub

Your wedding day should be the best day of your life, filled with happiness, for you, your family and friends.

Our Wedding co-ordinator, Janet Harris, will be delighted to work with you to ensure your wedding reception is truly memorable.

Frome Road, Southwick, Nr Trowbridge BA14 9QD t 01225 764366 e the.farmhouse@btconnect.com www.farmhousesouthwick.co.uk

Open for lunch & dinner seven days a week serving homecooked food with well kept traditional Wadworth ales •Ample Parking • Bar • Two Restaurants •Large Garden • Cricket Pitch • Real Ales 01225 752426 | info@poplarsinn.co.uk | poplarsinn.co.uk

A

PUB

Ash welcomes you to The Methuen Arms, an award winning Great British inn where hospitality meets fabulous food & drink at a relaxed pace.

Head Chef Leigh Evans has built a team dedicated to finding the best local food representing our area, serving up great food combinations & taste driven dishes.

The Methuen also has various spaces available for hosting great par ties, meetings and functions.

Tel: 01249 717060

2 High Street, Corsham SN13 0HB

themethuenarms.com

| food & drink There is also a wide selection of homemade desserts to fulfil every sweet tooth.

01225 752426 | poplarsinn.co.uk The Red Lion is family friendly, including the dog!

THE RED LION Woolverton, Bath BA2 7QS

The Red Lion is a traditional English pub situated on the A36 between Warminster and Bath. Customers can sample home cooked food served every day with weekly seasonal specials, a gluten free menu and roasts every Sunday. Saturday Night is Steak Night and they also have a great value lunch offer on Monday to Friday – two courses for just £11.75.

Families are welcome, and if you bring your dog there is always a treat for them too.

For Mother’s Day they will be offering their traditional Sunday roast, available from 12noon to 6pm, together with a range of specials.

Roasts cost £11.50 and include an option of chicken, pork or beef, whilst starters and desserts range from £6. As well as great value food, there is a large car park, a children's play area and free Wi-Fi too, making them an ideal 'stop off' on the A36.

01373 830350 | redlionwoolverton.co.uk

THE WESTBROOK Bromham, Chippenham SN15 2EE

Kevin and Louise Fraser run The Westbrook, a charming country pub on the Melksham to Calne Road at Westbrook, just one minute from the Devizes to Chippenham Road.

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The Westbrook has recently been awarded the 'Parliamentary Pub of The Year', an award they had to visit the Houses of Parliament to collect!

Their award comes off the back of the extraordinary hard work they put into making their pub welcoming to regulars and visitors alike; who all enjoy a warm welcome, well kept ales and wines and superb value food.

Mothering Sunday at The Westbrook will be a great celebration, with a special Sunday lunch menu being served all day (from 12noon until 8pm) The menu offers 2 courses for £22.50 and 3 courses for £27.50.

Starters include homemade leek and potato soup served with crusty

"The Westbrook has recently been awarded the Parliamentary Pub of The year" bread, whilst main course highlights include a delicious roast leg of local lamb served with a selection of roast, new potatoes and local vegetables.

A separate children’s menu will also be available. Their excellent outdoor play area is fantastic for letting kids let off steam too, making it a genuinely great family friendly option.

01380 850418 | westbrookbromham.co.uk

THE WILTSHIRE YEOMAN Chilmark Rd, Trowbridge BA14 9DD

The Wiltshire Yeoman is a family and dog-friendly pub situated on the Broadmead estate in Trowbridge.

Previously a farmhouse dating back to the 18th century, The Yeoman is now a vibrant, and relaxed place to come and eat and drink with friends and family. Serving a variety of local ales, freshly prepared home cooked food, and roaring fireplace in the winter, this is a proper country pub. During the week (Tuesday to Friday) you can also enjoy a 2 course lunch for just £9!

Mother’s Day lunch will include the roasted meat of your choice (various joints will be available on the day) with roast potatoes, stuffing, Yorkshire puddings, veg and gravy. Prices start at £7.50 for a small portion and a choice of three meats is £12.

01225 765370 | thewiltshireyeoman.co.uk

The Wiltshire Yeoman is a popular community pub

ARJ CHOCOLATE As an alternative to a Sunday lunch, why not consider a sweet treat for your mum? ARJ Chocolate is a Trowbridge-based business that sells beautiful handmade chocolate to order. As all their chocolate is handmade they can make one off orders and personalise your chocolate too. They now have six types of chocolate in stock with a brand new ‘Ruby & Gold’ chocolate.

There are lots of different options available for Mother's Day and Easter from fruity fondant chocolates, luxury chocolate buttons, personalised lollies, chocolate bunnies, mini eggs, luxury bars, chocolate making kits and much more. Don't forget they also make one off bespoke boxes for special occasions which can be personalised to your requirements.

They also have a chocolate subscription box where you can get chocolate delivered to your door every month – the perfect gift for the chocoholic in your life! There are one off boxes costing £9 and a 3 month box costing just £27, including postage! For that you get delicious products every month and each box is different.

07850 408296 | arjchocolate.co.uk

The Red Lion

W O O L V E R T O N

ARJ CHOCOLATE Delicately Handmade Chocolates

Sunday 31 March

ORDER NOW FOR MOTHERING SUNDAY & EASTER!

Book Now for Mother’s Day lunch!

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 £11.95 01373 830350 | www.redlionwoolverton.co.uk Bath Road, Woolverton, Somerset BA2 7QS

Chocolate Bunnies, Mini Eggs, Luxury Chocolate Buttons, Fruity Fondants, Chocolate Bars, Lollies, Chocolate Making Kits, Selection Boxes & Much More!

07850 408296 a-r-j@hotmail.co.uk Buy online: www.arjchocolate.co.uk

EW T N EN ER M D E N G U NA A M

WILTSHIRE YEOMAN

Enjoy a 2 Course Lunch for just £9 (Tuesday to Friday) BOOK NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY LUNCH! Dates for your Diary: Live Music Nights on Sat 16th March & Sat 30th March ✦ Doggie friendly ✦ Open fire ✦ Delicious Sunday lunches ✦ Quiz every Sunday

f

Find us on Facebook for upcoming events

01225 765370 Chilmark Rd, Trowbridge BA14 9DD www.thewiltshireyeoman.co.uk

O CO PE FF N EE DA BA IL R Y FOR GREAT DESIGN IDEAS, COME & VISIT OUR

INSPIRATIONAL SHOWROOM

Bespoke Curtains & Blinds, Upholstery, Interior Design, Fabrics & Wallpaper, New Furniture Ranges,Vincent Sheppard, Whitehead Designs, Flooring, Rugs, House Accessories

Find us at Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham, SN13 9PY

We are just a 4 minute drive from Corsham Town Centre with free customer parking available

BATHROOMS & WARDROBES FROM INSPIRATIONAL BATHROOMS • www.perfectrooms.co.uk • Tel: 01249 716445 • perfectrooms@btconnect.com

travel |

Easter is tricky for sun-seekers. Unless you are prepared to go long haul you are limited on destinations when looking for reliable sunshine. Here is our round up of some of the best options out there, all with a flight time of less than 4 hours*. *(Except the Canary Islands, which is 4½ hours)!

Aphrodite's Rock, Cyprus

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| travel

RELIABLE SUNSHINE THE CANARIES

Playa Dorada in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a great choice for family holidays. By April the winter rains should be over and temperatures average in the low to mid-20s with a good 9hrs of sun a day. For a holiday with a bit more character, try one of the smaller islands, such as La Gomera or El Hierro.

Getting there: First Choice (firstchoice.co.uk), Tui (tui.co.uk)

CYPRUS Cyprus has the mildest climate in the Mediterranean, and warms up sharply during March and April.

Paphos is the main resort, though don’t let the idea of it being a resort put you off. Tombs of The Kings is a fascinating World Heritage Site just 2km outside of the city, whilst the crescent shaped Coral Bay offers clear swimming waters, boat rentals and other tourist amenities. You can also visit Aphrodite’s Rock, the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love. Temperature wise expect temps of 22/23°C and an average of nine hours of sunshine a day.

Getting there: Sovereign (sovereign.com), Sunvil (sunvil. co.uk)

MOROCCO Marrakech is a major economic centre and home to mosques, palaces and gardens. The medina is a densely packed, walled medieval city dating to the Berber Empire, with mazelike alleys where thriving souks sell their wares. It's a wonderful in the spring; in April midday temperatures are just right. Expect a good eightnine hours of sun a day, with average highs of 27°C and perhaps a smattering of rain. It can get cool at night so bring warmer clothes for the evenings.

Getting there: Thomas Cook (thomascook.com)

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A TASTE OF SPRING CRETE ANDALUSIA

Seville's Holy Week celebrations (9-16 April) make the city an exciting place to be, but accommodation can be hard to find. Major landmarks include the ornate Alcázar castle complex and the 18th-century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring. If you prefer the coast though, Marbella and Nerja are two of the best resorts.

The Costa del Sol is warm (about 21°C) and reasonably dry; Seville is warmer (about 24°C) but wetter though both destinations average eight to nine hours of sunshine a day.

Getting there: Vintage Travel (vintagetravel.co.uk), i-escape (i-escape.com) Jemaa el-Fnaa Square in Marrakech

Crete has one of the earliest springs in the Mediterranean. The south coast has its own microclimate and is warmer than the north, so head here for the best of the sunshine. Loutro, Crete's ultimate getaway resort, is reachable only by boat (a 15-minute ride from Chora Sfakion). A study in white and blue, it sits at the back of a deep bay under towering grey-brown cliffs. Expect eight hours of sunshine a day, temperatures of around 21°C. Heraklion is the closest town to the Palace of Knossos, which is best visited in spring when the crowds are fewer and the weather cooler.

Getting there: First Choice (firstchoice.co.uk); Tui (tui.co.uk)

travel | Palermo, Sicily's capital, is a fascinating city

Levada do Caldeirão Verde in Madeira

Valetta waterfront in Malta

CULTURE & ACTIVITIES MALTA

Malta sits in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Its capital city Valletta has been named both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the European Capital of Culture 2018, showing that this group of islands is the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. It offers sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife and fascinating history. Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister, is also a great option if you prefer a less developed, more peaceful option. Daily temperatures reach around 20°C on average; you should see lots of sunshine (about eight hours a day) and little rain.

Getting there: Belleair Holidays (belleair.co.uk), Tui (tui.co.uk)

MADEIRA Known as the 'Floating Garden' due to its multitude of gardens and plants, Madeira offers versatile scenery and a pleasant climate all year round – perfect for a spot of walking, which will take you along levadas (trails along mini irrigation canals), steep and rugged

coastlines and through eucalyptus forests as well as cloud forests and sun-drenched banana plantations.

Sun worshippers are also catered for as whilst this is a volcanic island, most hotels have ocean platforms which are ideal for sunbathing and relaxing by the island’s super-clear waters. Temperatures should be in the early 20s, with about seven hours of sun a day.

Getting there: Classic Collection (classic-collection.co.uk)

SICILY A wonderful touring destination, with some of the most evocative Greek and Roman ruins, beautiful Baroque towns and, in Palermo, one of Italy's most fascinating cities.

The hilltop resort of Taormina is also attractive - but gets extremely busy over the holiday weekend.

On average, expect highs of 16-18°C, which is really pleasant for exploring, but perhaps a little chilly for sunbathing.

Getting there: The Sicilian Experience (thesicilianexperience. co.uk), Long Travel (long-travel. co.uk)

"Madeira offers versatile scenery and a pleasant climate all year round – perfect for a spot of walking"

BREXIT

As we go to press there is still uncertainty over Brexit. If we do leave on 29 March, most of any initial problems at airports etc should have eased by the time you go on your Easter break. The uncertainty also means fewer people have committed than usual - so it is easier to find availability and discounts.

We'd always recommend having travel insurance, but with the current climate, it's especially important.

MAKE THE MOST OF A LATE EASTER

Book nine days off for a 18-day holiday (19 April – 6 May)!

Book these days off: 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30 April and 1, 2 and 3 May Easter falls late this year, with Good Friday on 19 April and Easter Monday on 22 April. For a great Easter escape, combine those two bank holidays with the Early May bank holiday on 6 May. It'll give you a massive 18 consecutive days off work for the bargain price of nine days of annual leave!

USEFUL LINKS • britishairways.com • easyjet.com • ryanair.com

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gardens |

Step Into Spring It’s the moment all gardeners have been waiting months for...

Spring, and a new growing season, has arrived.

Get out and enjoy your garden this month with the help of these fantastic local businesses, who will help you take care of everything from plants to ponds and fencing to forsythias.

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| gardens © Christina Cornish

some annuals, or arrange a seasonal bedding display. Whatever you need, you’re sure to find it, and much more, at Avonfield Gardens.

01225 571331 | avonfield-gardens.co.uk

DOWNSIDE NURSERIES

Allington Garden Shop has some great gifts for gardeners

Helleborus orienttalis pink spotted from Downside Nurseries

GARDEN CENTRES & NURSERIES

At the start of the new gardening year pop in for a supply of ready to plant bulbs – in case you missed their autumn planting – and they’ll ALLINGTON GARDEN soon have lots of vegetable plug SHOP plants in stock too, including beans, Selling a range of unusual shrubs, lettuce, spinach, chard and more. roses, perennials, herbs, vegetable As well as growing your own, they plants, miscellaneous garden also offer a large and varied range accessories and some beautiful and of herbaceous perennials. Equally, highly original gardening gifts (so useful in the run up to Mother’s Day!). you may be looking to direct sow Owner Brenda Meade will be more than happy to advise you on your garden related woes or planning and can even make up a hanging basket or pot for you whilst you wait.

01249 659700 | Find them on Facebook

AVONFIELD GARDENS

Avonfield Gardens, on Marsh Road in Hilperton, is looking forward to another great year on its developing and expanding site. They have a huge selection of plants to choose from (and the largest selection of trees in the area) and a lovely on-site café to relax in too.

The quality of plants is second to none. As well as growing a large number of plants themselves, they also source their plants and shrubs from a selection of tried and tested nurseries throughout the UK.

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“At the start of the new gardening year pop in for a supply of ready to plant bulbs – in case you missed their autumn planting” Avonfield Gardens Avonfield has a huge range of plants to brighten up your spring garden

Celebrating its 51st year of trading, Downside Nurseries is a traditional family-run working nursery in Upper Westwood that’s open seven days/ week from 9am to 5pm and grows much of its own stock.

The nursery initially grew fruit and vegetables to supply the Bristol markets, but the emphasis soon changed to growing and supplying plants to what were then the ‘new concept’ of Garden Centres. A true gardener’s delight, you’ll find a huge choice of the finest quality plants from more than 2000 varieties of herbaceous perennials, ornamental and fruit trees, shrubs, seasonal bedding, topiary and vegetables that will thrive in your garden. Plants account for nearly 100% of all sales so you can be sure of quality, choice and value for money. Plants make a wonderful gift, whatever the occasion, so perfect for Mothering Sunday, Easter, anniversaries and

| gardens you would prefer to make your own, they have thousands of summer bedding and trailing plants to choose from, plus of course there’s opportunity to pick the brains of some true experts in the field. As well as bedding you’ll find perennials, herbs, shrubs and climbers too, and plenty of parking to boot!

01225 783226 | fb.com/OldMilestoneNursery

Trowbridge Garden Centre has a great selection of plants, gifts and sundries

birthdays, work colleagues’ leaving gifts or simply a treat for you.

The plant list is on the website, where you’ll also find directions, and from where you can sign up to receive news from the nursery direct to your inbox!

01225 862392 | downsidenurseries.co.uk

Clematis Barbara Jackman from Old Milestone Nursery

Crockerton, just outside Warminster, on the edge of the Longleat estate.

What really marks this garden centre apart is the beautiful setting - no visit to Lakeside is complete without a stroll around the lake and a chance to meet the ducks and geese that have settled there.

01985 217413 | fonthill-lakeside.com

“Lakeside Garden Centre is a family run OLD MILESTONE business that has been NURSERY Based on the Melksham Road on serving gardeners in the outskirts of Holt, Old Milestone the West of England Nursery has a wonderful reputation for over forty years.”

LAKESIDE & FONTHILL GARDEN CENTRES

Lakeside and Fonthill Garden Centres are a family run business that has been serving gardeners in the West of England for over forty years. The two centres are based in Warminster and Bitton, located on the A413 between Bath and Bristol. In either location you can be assured of a warm, friendly welcome, top-quality products and knowledgeable advice for everyone from the novice to the expert.

for beautiful hanging baskets, with hundreds of ready planted baskets and pots available for you to take home. Just give them a little TLC and they’ll reward you with stunning displays of colour right throughout the summer months. Alternatively, if

TROWBRIDGE GARDEN CENTRE

Based on the outskirts of our county town this ever popular garden centre has a great reputation for quality of service and product ranges – it has everything a gardener could ever need, from planting to ponds, compost to climbers their knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you discover what works best for your garden.

This month head inside for shrubs, trees, alpines, roses and seasonal bedding plants, and encourage wildlife into your garden with their large collection of bird feed and other wildlife products. Also see their large collection of metal and wooden garden furniture along with barbecues to suit all budgets.

Also on site you’ll find Garden Affairs, Room to Groom, The Nail Emporium,

In addition to the wide range of trees, shrubs, patio plants and perennials, you will also find a select range of quality garden furniture, barbecues and gift items.

Lakeside is situated on the A350 in

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Whitehall has an extensive range of top quality garden furniture

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

ALLINGTON GARDEN SHOP Selling a range of unusual shrubs, roses, perennials, herbs, vegetable plants, accessories and gifts.

OPEN 7 days a week 10am - 5pm For friendly, professional & personal service.

Allington Bar Farm, Allington, Chippenham SN14 6LJ 01249 659700 | www.allingtongardenshop.co.uk

OLD MILESTONE NURSERY MELKSHAM RD, HOLT BA14 6QT • 01225 783226

HANGING BASKETS Hundreds of ready planted baskets & pots available to choose from

SUMMER BEDDING

Phone: 07940 261734

Thousands of garden-ready bedding & a huge range of trailing plants

Email: info@classiclandscapesandecopools.co.uk

fb.com/classicgardeners

PLUS standard fuchsias, geraniums, perennials, herbs, shrubs & climbers WE ARE A FAMILY RUN NURSERY SELLING ONLY PLANTS

at 288 Frome Rd, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 0DT

www.trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

Tel 01225 763927

Plants & Shrubs, Bedding, Fruit & Veg, Seeds & Bulbs, Gardening Products, Paving, Pots & Containers, Tools, Compost, Wildlife Feed and Outdoor Aquatics plus A wide selection of gifts for every occasion Garden Furniture & Barbecues

Also home to The Bay Tree Café, Garden Affairs, Room to Groom,The Nail Emporium, Premium Tubs, Paul’s Double Glazing Repairs, Hair by Debs Tye-Duck & Kalahari Kitchen

| gardens Premium Tubs, Paul’s Double Glazing Repairs, Hair by Debs Tye-Duck and Kalahari Kitchen as well as the popular Bay Tree Café, serving breakfasts, snacks, hot meals, teas and coffees.

01225 763927 | trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

“Now in stock are a range of starter plants to get your garden ready for summer.”

Whitehall Garden Centres

WHITEHALL GARDEN CENTRES

Whitehall Garden Centres offer a great day out for the whole family.

An independent business run by the Self family since 1894, they have centres in Lacock, Whitchurch and Woodborough and are one of the largest stockists of outdoor plants in the area for shrubs, roses, clematis, conifers, herbs, herbaceous, bedding plants, ornamental trees and alpine plants. Now in stock are a range of starter plants to get your garden ready for summer. Whitehall is so confident in the plants they sell they offer a 5 year hardy plant guarantee.

As well as plants there is a large selection of garden furniture to complement any garden with leading names including Bramblecrest, Hartman and Kettler. They also stock an extensive range of gifts, casual clothing, houseplants, outdoor pots, ornaments and garden sundries.

Complete your visit with afternoon tea or lunch in one of their restaurants.

in horticulture, and is happy to help with every aspect of your garden care, from planting and weeding to clearance and maintenance, hedge trimming and pruning, lawn care, hardscaping, ponds and water features. Whatever your horticultural needs, give James a call or email info@ classiclandscapesandecopools.co.uk and he will happily come and discuss your ideas.

07940 261734 | fb.com/classicgardeners

COLOURFENCE BATH

If you are in need of a new fence, or want a low maintenance solution that doesn’t require lots of upkeep then why not consider Colourfence?

Their durable fencing panels are guaranteed not to rot, warp or peel for 25 years and can withstand wind gusts up to 130mph, giving you real peace of mind whatever the weather may have in store. Colourfence fencing is manufactured from Zincalume high tensile steel and is fully engineered to be light weight yet extremely strong and durable. Whilst

“RHS trained James Treacy has over 15 years’ experience in horticulture, and is happy to help with every aspect of your garden care” Classic Gardens

01249 730204 | whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

FENCING & LANDSCAPING CLASSIC GARDENS

Classic Gardens provides professional support for every phase of your project. They take care of everything, from advice at the outset to support after completion. RHS trained James Treacy has over 15 years’ experience

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James Treacy can help you with any garden project, large or small

Colourfence’s panels are guaranteed for 25 years

more expensive than traditional lap panel installations it costs less than you might think and is remarkably good value when you consider there are no ongoing maintenance costs - it never needs treating or painting, just the occasional hose down will keep your fence looking as good as new.

Your local franchise owner Ivor McKeown offers a free, no obligation design, installation and quotation service. They do not employ high pressure sales tactics and if Colourfence is not right for your garden for any reason they will be happy to advise on alternative solutions should you wish.

Available in a range of colours to complement any garden environment, both sides are identical making Colourfence the most attractive garden fencing solution for you and your neighbour. To find out

We are a local, family run business that prides itself on its friendly, helpful approach, offering all the benefits of a local service combined with great value for money.

The cheapest supplier in the UK, GUARANTEED!

We offer: Full installation service, Base levelling, Base laying, Repairs, Existing greenhouse clearance, Site visits, Insurance quotes

01225 710479

swgreenhouses.co.uk

| gardens more go to the website or read their reviews on their Checkatrade page at checkatrade.com/ColoufenceBath.

for yourself! And if you want someone else to do the heavy lifting, ask about their full landscaping service!

01458 830486 | colourfence.co.uk/bath

01225 769145

EJ SHANLEY & SON LTD

Sometimes nothing but a total clear out will do! If your home is in need of a spring clean, or if you are having works done, consider giving EJ Shanley & Son a call to see about a skip. A family run business for over 50 years, they have a huge fleet of lorries and a large selection of skips and compactor bins for hire, as well as roll-on roll-off bins, a car breakers yard and a metal reclamation centre.

01225 753333 / 01985 213348 | ejshanley.co.uk

A new deck installed by T Deacon

T DEACON FENCING & LANDSCAPING

If you are looking for that little bit of extra space to store your tools and gardening equipment you’ve come to the right place! A neatly crafted shed or summerhouse is ideal for the purpose and at their new garden warehouse T Deacon offers a huge range of styles and sizes, including shed bases if required, with the option of just delivery or delivery and full installation.

Their new warehouse, based at Dunkirk Business Park in Southwick, is open 7 days a week, and as well as sheds and summerhouses also carries fence posts and panels, tools, patios, turf, gates, trellis, decking, concrete products and lots more. Pop in to see

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tdeaconfencingandlandscaping.co.uk

WESSEX GARDEN FENCING

Wessex Garden Fencing is based in the Wylye Valley and provides quality fencing services to Trowbridge, Warminster, Westbury, Frome and surrounding areas. As a small, family run business, they pride themselves in providing the highest possible standards of professional service.

They understand that quality and reliability are at the top of everyone’s list when choosing a fencing contractor and aim to exceed your expectations.

company GreenThumb. “Spraying the lawn with a selective herbicide can rid it of dandelions, daisies and clover, as well as other weeds.”

“In business for 15 years, GreenThumb is the area’s largest and most recommended lawn care specialist with over 3000 customers using the regular four treatments per year service.”

Wessex Garden Fencing offer a complete range of services starting with a free no obligation quotation. What’s more, all their fencing materials are CCA standard pressure treated and - wherever possible - locally sourced. So, if your garden fence has taken a battering this winter, or if you are looking to replace your fencing as part of a larger project, give them a call.

In business for 15 years, GreenThumb is the area’s largest and most recommended lawn care specialist with over 3000 customers using the regular four treatments per year service. The fourth treatment is applied between September and February concentrating on maintaining that healthy colour, with an emphasis on moss control.

GreenThumb treatments cost from just £15 per application, and the householder does not have to be in when the treatments take place.

The service is pay-as-you-go and there are no customer contracts to sign. For a free lawn survey contact GreenThumb today!

01373 822933 | wessexgardenfencing.co.uk

01249 653765 | greenthumb.co.uk

LAWNS & GARDEN LAWN TENDER Creating the perfect lawn that is the MACHINERY GREENTHUMB

Now is the ideal time to give your lawn an overhaul to ensure it returns to the peak of health over the coming spring and summer months.

Often the centrepiece that sets off spectacular flowering borders, and links patio to pond and sundeck to shrubbery, the lawn is frequently the least cared-for feature in the garden.

“Weeds are the bane of many lawns, and spring-time onwards is a good time to tackle them,” agrees Graham Smith, owner of local lawn treatment

envy of your neighbours is actually quite straightforward. The solution is to get someone else to do it for you! Kevin Maul and Sue Jacobs are just the people you need. They run the South Wilts & East Somerset office of LawnTender. As a company, LawnTender cares for thousands of lawns throughout the south of England, ranging from small town and cottage gardens to large country houses and estates. Kevin and Sue’s area covers Andover to Bath and from their Westbury base regularly visit Warminster, Frome, Trowbridge,

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E.J. SHANLEY & SON [TROWBRIDGE] LTD

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HOUSE OR GARDEN NEED A CLEAROUT THIS SPRING?

CALL US TODAY!

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01225 769145 01225 302687 CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF SERVICE

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CALL TROWBRIDGE OR WARMINSTER 01225 753333 / 01985 213348

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DECKING

SHEDS

LANDSCAPING

COME & SEE OUR

43 Shails Lane, Trowbridge 43 Copheap Lane, Warminster

GARDEN WAREHOUSE

www.ejshanley.co.uk

AT DUNKIRK BUSINESS PARK, SOUTHWICK

WILTSHIRE‘S LEADER IN SKIP HIRE

office.tdeaconltd@aol.co.uk tdeaconfencingandlandscaping.co.uk

WESTBURY FENCING

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• All garden fencing supplied • New fencing installations • Hedge cutting • Fencing repairs

FREE QUOTATIONS AVAILABLE RENEW - REPAIR - READY FOR SUMMER

Call 01373 822933 or 07506 373335

info@wessexgardenfencing.co.uk www.wessexgardenfencing.co.uk

| gardens

TIPS ON LAWN MOWING FROM LAWN TENDER...

Apart from a regular feed and weed programme, mowing the grass correctly is one of the most important activities to improve your lawn. In our experience, grass is often cut too short, damaging the grass and creating a browner, weaker lawn.

To create a thick, lush lawn, the ideal length for grass is 3 to 4cm.

Cut no more than one third off the current height of the grass. Cutting more than a third can harm the grass, causing brown patches, as will cutting the lawn when it is wet or if the blade needs sharpening.

You won’t end up cutting the lawn more often - instead the grass’ energy goes into new side shoots rather than height!

Finally, if leaves fall onto the grass, they should be removed as soon as possible or they will damage the grass. Using a lawn mower at a raised height is a good way of lifting the leaves.

Bradford on Avon and their surrounding villages and hamlets.

In what is a competitive market, LawnTender has always placed high focus on customer service and care.

They provide personal ongoing advice, feedback and support throughout the season. This has resulted in strong customer loyalty from year to year.

It all starts with a FREE, no obligation lawn assessment and quotation - all you have to do is give them a call

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South West Greenhouses are experts in the supply and erection of top quality greenhouses

or email southwilts@ lawntender.co.uk.

01373 859016 lawntender.co.uk

MENDIP MOWERS

Spring is here and the grass has started to grow again! Is your lawn mower fit and raring to go? If not bring it in for a service or they can collect it and deliver it back for you if that’s easier. Or is it time for a change of machine? Honda has just announced its exciting new offers so head to the showroom to see the easy start lawnmowers. They even do part exchange! At the showroom you’ll also find a range of brush cutters, with Honda’s quiet, cost effective and powerful 4 stroke engine and Versatool, the engine with 7 attachments.

01373 832965 mendipmowers.co.uk

“Based in Devizes, Beechfield Reclamation have some wonderful pieces that would look great in any garden”

GARDEN BUILDINGS & FURNITURE BEECHFIELD RECLAMATION

From pretty staddle stones to a statue or impressive piece of metalwork, a good architectural piece can make a garden shine, as well as providing an excellent focal point to lead the eye. Based in Devizes, Beechfield Reclamation deal in all types of building materials. They have some wonderful pieces that would look great in any garden, including arches, fountains, benches, chimney pots, birdbaths, planters, paving, bricks and more.

As well as old items, they also sell reproduction pieces like urns too –

Reclaimed Building Materials & Architectural Antiques

All Reclaimed Building Materials Bought & Sold The White Horse Yard, Beechfield Rd, Hopton Park Ind Est, Devizes SN10 2DX

Tel

01380 730999

See our full range of stock on our website:

www.beechfieldreclamation.co.uk

• A programme of pre-scheduled lawn treatments • Professional feeds - non scorch and no flush growth • Expert scarification and aeration service • Cost effective and time saving • Ongoing advice and support

| gardens well worth a look! All in all the range is astounding – what’s more they have a stonemason on site who can cut flagstones (and more) to size.

Cordens is a traditional ironmongers that also stocks all you need for your garden this spring

01380 730999 | beechfieldreclamation.co.uk

SOUTH WEST GREENHOUSES

From humble beginnings South West Greenhouses is now one of the largest greenhouse retailers in the UK. Because they install the greenhouses they sell they have an unrivalled product knowledge on the range; the best way to fully understand a greenhouse is to put it up...over and over again! The company supplies the best quality greenhouses in their price brackets including Halls, Eden, Elite, Swallow and many more. The website has all information you could need on every greenhouse so you can order and arrange your installation with the click of a button! It’s that simple.

Take a look online today – you can also view photos of greenhouses they have installed to help with your choice.

whilst you are also supporting a local independent business.

01225 862236 | brownshardware.co.uk

DAVIES OF WESTBURY If you want to get cracking in the garden over the coming weeks then head to Davies of Westbury to make sure you have everything you need.

A family run business, they have over 01225 710479 | swgreenhouses.co.uk 30 years experience selling everything for the home – inside and out. As far GARDEN TOOLS as the garden goes, they carry all the & SUPPLIES top brands when it comes to tools as well as both electric and petrol BROWNS garden machinery including mowers, HARDWARE strimmers, hedge trimmers, shredders If you need something for the and much more as well as petrol home or garden this spring then mowers and chain saws. As well as head to Browns, Bradford on Avon’s the tools they also keep specialised independent hardware store. Don’t fertilisers, pesticides, weed killers, let its size deceive you, they have compost, bark chippings and much everything you need in store and if more. If you require prices, just phone they don’t they will try to get it for be you! From paint to pruning shears and and a member of staff will happy to help. bedding plants to bird seed Browns’ team will do their best to help you,

“From paint to pruning shears and bedding plants to bird seed Browns’ team will do their best to help you” 50

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Browns is Bradford on Avon’s own independent hardware store

The difference between a family run business and the huge superstores is that they can offer you more choice and a much more personal service – as well as free delivery in and around Westbury.

0845 291 6015 | daviesofwestbury.co.uk

S L CORDEN & SONS

Cordens in Warminster is a real fixture of Warminster high street.

A traditional ironmongers, the store is now so much more to local residents, and currently operates 10 departments over three floors, covering: kitchenware, DIY and paint mixing, ironmongery, tools, electrical, gardening, camping, locks and key cutting, sugarcraft and gifts.

As an independent firm, they are renowned for their helpful and cheerful staff, their knack for problem solving and their ability to source unusual items quickly.

Right now, at the beginning of spring, their gardening department is the place to head for everything from seeds to secateurs, furniture to tomato feed – everything the gardening enthusiast needs to get the gardening year off to a flying start!

01985 212115 | fb.com/slcordenson

S.L. Corden & Sons

Davies of Westbury DIY, Gardening & Cook Shop

We are a traditional hardware store with a modern twist.

Come to us for...

Gardening Equipment | Outdoor Furniture

FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS IN & AROUND THE HOME • DIY • Hand & Power Tools • Gardening • Plumbing • Heating • Logs & Fuels • Electricals • Decorating • Cooking • Sugarcraft

Household Items | Ironmongery | Tools

FREE DELIVERY TO WESTBURY & SURROUNDS

Paint | DIY | Electrical | Key Cutting

OPEN Monday to Saturday 9am - 5.30pm (Sunday CLOSED)

Camping Equipment | Sugarcraft | Gifts

24 Edward Street, Westbury, BA13 3BD

4 High Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 9AE 01985 212115 | slcorden.co.uk | s.fraser2@btconnect.com

www.daviesofwestbury.co.uk

Tel 01373 822431

BROWNS HARDWARE & IRONMONGERY Bradford on Avon’s independent hardware store

TOP BRANDS AT BROWNS VISIT US FOR YOUR GARDEN ACCESSORIES

PURVEYORS OF... HOUSEWARES • CLEANING PRODUCTS • TOOLS • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • DECORATING & DIY • GARDENING Open: Mondays to Saturdays 8.30am - 6pm 30 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JX Telephone 01225 862236

OPEN TO RETAIL & TRADE SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY BATHROOMS & BATHROOM PRODUCTS

We are the number one source for heating and plumbing in Trowbridge and surrounding areas. We can supply a huge range of products: RADIATORS BOILERS CYLINDERS UNDERFLOOR HEATING SHOWERS COMPLETE BATHROOM SUITES ACCESSORIES

FIND LUXURY BATHROOMS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES 01225 765000

Unit 6-7 Riverway, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8LL

www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk

Allsop Carpets & Flooring

• Carpets • Vinyl • Naturals • Wood Flooring www.allsopcarpets.co.uk | 01373 463866 or 07887 953014 Corner Garage, Christchurch St West, Frome BA11 1EB

Cormar Carpets - Home Counties Using British Manufacturers & Suppliers

N SA O L W E O N

IN OR LS E F AI SE RE ET O D ST RE O M

We are proud to showcase a collection of stunning new kitchens, bathrooms and bedroom furniture along with worktops, replacement doors and fittings to offer something new for all tastes

Come visit our showroom today and see for yourself!

The only kitchen, bathroom and bedroom showroom in Wiltshire to have met the professional standards to become a Which? Trusted Trader

Check out our reviews on Which Trusted Trader!

GREAT OFFERS IN STORE ALL YEAR ROUND! 01985 847031 | sofacoplus@yahoo.co.uk | sofaco.co.uk | 15 George Street, Warminster, BA12 8QA

LEI G H JOINERY & INTERIORS

Where detail is key...

Traditional Joinery Techniques Top Quality Materials Bespoke Projects Local Workshop

tel 07794 383684 email lvaughan@leighjoineryinteriors.uk

SOVEREIGN DAMP & TIMBER LTD We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, basement waterproofing, timber treatment and specialist replastering.

tel 01249 716161 or 01225 811222 Email: info@sovereigndpc.co.uk www.sovereigndpc.co.uk 1 Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Leafield Ind Estate Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN

Offering beautifully designed kitchens, or kitchen replacement doors, with a FREE innovative design & planning service • Stunning ranges including Contemporary, Traditional, Painted, Gloss & more • Expert Design & Installation • Appliances from the Industry’s Leading Manufacturers • The Homemaker Customer Care & After Sales Service

NEWLY REFURBISHED SHOWROOM 5-6 George St, Warminster BA12 8QA 01985 219200 Longmead, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL 01747 851476 www.myhomemaker.co.uk

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haus.life

haus_lifestyle

/hauslifestyle

V I N TAG E & H A N D M A D E I T E M S F O R T H E

MODERN HOME

West Wiltshire’s Most Trusted Estate Agent * * Based on hundreds of customer reviews on Trustpilot

Find our what your house is worth using our FREE quick online valuation tool!

Visit www.EweMove.com/Trowbridge or call 01225 430776 UP TO 40% OFF SALE NOW ON!

Wiltshire’s Leading Independent Property Management Company Head to www.hauslife.co.uk to see our collection of jewellery, accessories and Head to www.hauslife.co.uk our collection jewellery and homewares.

Use code HAUS10 to forsee an exclusive £10 offof your first order!* homewares. Sign up to our newsletter for an exclusive 15% OFF discount on your order. w w w.ha u first sl i fe .co .u k

*minimum spend of £40 applies

12 St John’s Street, Devizes SN10 1BD t 01380 720400 e debbie@marsdenslettings.co.uk www.marsdenslettings.co.uk

| house & home

ELMORE KITCHENS E Elmore Kitchens in Bath is where beautiful kitchens are made affordable.

lmore Kitchens is an independent family run business based in Bath that specialises in the design, supply and installation of beautiful, quality kitchens. As in independent retailer they work with some of the best German and British makers, each personally chosen because of their high product quality and the level of service they offer. Offering both contemporary and traditional styles Ben and Vicky Elmore firmly believe that getting the design right in the first instance, however long it takes, is the key to a successful kitchen installation.

They have a range of products on offer to suit a variety of budgets.

However, it’s not just about getting the right product and design that’s important. Elmore Kitchens pride themselves on a first-class installation service which ensures your finished kitchen looks great for many years to come.

Elmore offers a range of products and designs to suit all tastes and budgets

Elmore work with the best German and British makers

"Elmore Kitchens pride themselves on a first-class installation service which ensures your finished kitchen looks great for many years to come."

Ben & Vicky Elmore strive to listen and understand your thoughts. They will lead you through the process, starting with a design consultation to get a real understanding of your requirements. Once a final design has been agreed, a schedule is created to ensure the project runs smoothly and care is taken by their highly experienced installation team to minimise disruption. On completion,

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they conduct a thorough inspection to check you are completely happy with your new kitchen.

Their spacious design studio on Saracen Street has been recently updated with five fantastic displays over 2 floors that encapsulate the

very latest in kitchen design and product innovation. The showroom is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm. Out of hours appointments are also available on request. Call 01225 335600 to find out more.

• elmorekitchens.com

| house & home

SPRING KITCHEN

Dream Doors in Bradford on Avon can refurbish your current kitchen and could save you up to half the cost of a new kitchen!

COOKERY DEMOS

Dream Doors regularly organises stimulating cookery demonstrations. Keep a look-out for future events, they are always very popular!

If you do decide to give your kitchen a makeover - with the design and colour you’ve always dreamed of - it will only take a few days, is very affordable and they will guide you through the process with experience and expertise.

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pring is the perfect time to think about new beginnings, adventures and life styles … and about a new kitchen! How about sprucing up your home with a new colour and style for the most important part of your house?

Dream Doors offers various levels of kitchen make-overs to suit all budgets, from a simple kitchen door swap to a fully fitted kitchen.

Your local Dream Doors showroom is based at 10 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon and has new, exciting displays to show you the latest trends and ranges in kitchen design. Combine this with a fantastic range of colours and

"How about sprucing up your home with a new colour and style for the most important part of your house?"

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The showroom in Bradford on Avon has a range of displays showing current design trends

styles and your dream kitchen is within simple and affordable reach.

You may already have a vision of your dream kitchen – share it with the team and they'll help turn that dream into reality. Alternatively, if you don’t have a clear idea of what you'd like then let them inspire you and benefit from their years of experience. The team will be delighted to meet you and discuss your requirements and ideas.

Call 01225 282172, email bathregion@dreamdoors.co.uk or go online to receive a FREE, no obligation quotation.

• dreamdoors.co.uk

Howard Roofing For All Your Roofing Needs

ADVERTISE WITH US IN 2019 INTRODUCTORY & SERIES DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

Qualified Roofer Offering...

• Tiling • Stone Slate • Natural Slate • Leadwork • Repairs Mob: 07812 093962 Office: 01249 782694 DeneHowardRoofing@gmail.com Based in Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Call Andy today on � 01225 807775 westwiltsmag.co.uk

| house & home

LUXE FRINGING Bringing a 1970s softness to a room, we love it on cushions, lamps and even mirrors.

Clockwise from top right: Fringed Cushion, £32, hauslife.co.uk, Yellow Pouffe, £695, sohohome.com, Mirror, £145, oliverbonas.com

Mustard Velvet Fringed Lamp, £125, notonthehighstreet.com

2019 interior

LOOK BOOK

These three key interior trends of 2019 easy to replicate in your home - the best bit? They can beautifully overlap with one another.

Lockley bed, from £1,360, sweetpeaandwillow.com

WARM NEUTRALS

velvet & brass

Spiced Honey was Dulux’s ‘Colour of the Year’ and it’s ushered in an appreciation for caramels, beiges and warm greys.

Velvet’s soft lustre looks amazing with the shine of brass. Opt for decadent jewel shades and simple shapes.

Above: Spiced Honey Dulux, Below: Turkish Cotton Throw, from £32, hauslife.co.uk

Above: Effie Armchair, £329, cultfurniture.com, Velvet Cushion, £53, thefarthing.co.uk,

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Right: Full Moon Cushion, £30, oliverbonas.com

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| house & home

WADSWICK GREEN

House hunting for your ageing parent? Make it less stressful and head to Wadswick Green near Corsham, which has just released a new phase of apartments.

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even out of 10 people who have bought or sold a property have found it to be one of the most stressful experiences they have ever had, according to a Which? Mortgage Advisers survey.

The process of finding a new home can be particularly taxing for the elderly, which is why many retirees decide to stay put in their family home that is often too big and difficult to maintain.

Diana Harrison (47) from Wiltshire found her parents facing exactly this situation and was becoming increasingly worried about them living an isolated and lonely life in their family home in Essex. She comments: “My parents are both in their 70s and I think that their generation is very much used to living in one property all their life, whereas people of my generation can easily move house a few times. I felt I needed to show my mum and dad that a move can really improve their overall lifestyle; give them a new lease of life.”

After looking in Wiltshire and the surrounding area, Diana came across Wadswick Green: “I was really impressed by the quality of the apartments and the onsite amenities. The team even arranged for my parents to stay overnight so they could experience what it would be like to wake up in the new apartment, go down for breakfast and mingle with other residents.”

Having lived at Wadswick Green for several months now, Diana’s parents “…absolutely love it and say it feels like being on holiday all the time,” she adds.

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The homes at Wadswick Green have an open-plan layout that creates an inviting atmosphere Wadswick Green has extensive facilities, including a swimming pool with jacuzzi

"Wadswick Green’s newest phase is called Almond Close and comprises of 45 one, two and three bedroom residences with prices starting from £335,500."

Wadswick Green’s newest phase is called Almond Close and comprises of 45 one, two and three bedroom residences with prices starting from £335,500. Interested buyers are encouraged to visit the show home at Wadswick Green, located opposite The Pavilion. This gives visitors the opportunity to experience the quality of the properties first hand and discover the extensive onsite amenities, which include a swimming

pool with Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, gym, spa and hair salon.

Wadswick Green is also home to The Greenhouse restaurant, which has proven popular with residents and the Wiltshire community alike. To book an appointment and visit the show home, call 01225 584500 or visit the website.

• wadswickgreen.co.uk

THE OLD VICARAGE Staverton, near trowbridge

Care Home for the Elderly

MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

• Rise & Recline Chairs • Stairlifts • Adjustable Beds • Mobility Scooters • Walkers & Wheelchairs • Bathing Aids • Daily Living Aids Landscaped gardens

Pets are welcome

A family run residential home for 21 residents. We care for elderly residents and those with early onset dementia.

Staverton is a small village situated on the outskirts of Trowbridge, within easy distance of Bradford on Avon and Melksham but with all the usual village amenities close at hand.

If you are looking for care and comfort, tailored to suit your needs contact the manager on 01225 782019 (option 1) email info@equality-care.co.uk or visit the website.

www.equality-care.co.uk The Old Vicarage, 51 Staverton, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 6NX

Visit our independent showroom at

17 George Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8QA

or call our team today on

01985 843035

www.lifeandmobility.co.uk

| legal & financial

WHAT ARE THE TOP LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS WHEN PLANNING FOR LATER LIFE? We asked ANDREW DOUGLAS, a partner at Awdry Bailey Douglas Solicitors who specialises in elderly care, for his views on this issue...

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE MOST IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION? In my opinion making life easier for those who have to care for you in later life is a number one priority.

Making Lasting Powers of Attorney for both Property & Finance and Health & Welfare is arguably the most vital thing to do. These documents can only be made whilst you have capacity and provide for trusted people (your attorneys) to make decisions with you - if you so wish - or by themselves, if you are not able to do so.

IS A WILL IMPORTANT? Statistics suggest that 70% of people either do not have a Will or need to review their existing one.

A Will allows you to choose how to leave your estate without being dictated to by the state under the rules of intestacy. There are many different types of Will which are designed to fit different types of circumstance. The choice is yours and makes life easier for those who have to manage your estate when you die.

“It is important to understand the basics about Inheritance tax, so you know what reliefs are available to leave your estate in a tax efficient way.”

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WHAT ABOUT HOUSES? For most people their house is their biggest asset. An important consideration is whether in later life you should own your house jointly or as tenants in common. The latter arrangement allows you to leave your share of the house in your Will, meaning you decide who it is left to. The former means your house does not get into your Will and is left automatically to surviving joint owners, which might not be sensible from a care planning or tax point of view.

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.

• abdcare.co.uk

WHAT OTHER CONSIDERATIONS ARE IMPORTANT? It is important to understand the basics about Inheritance tax, so you know what reliefs are available to leave your estate in a tax efficient way. It is also important to understand why in later life investing in Investment Bonds is tax and long term care efficient. Trusts, immediate care needs plans, funeral plans and nominating out of your estate death benefits that arise on your death also need to be considered.

If you want to know more, then for a

Andrew Douglas

| interview

LIFT OFF AT F45

F45 Training is an international fitness sensation and it's just launched a new franchise in Bath, backed by England international JAMES HASKELL. We caught up with him to find out more...

SO YOUR NEW GYM IS NOW OPEN IN BATH, HOW IS IT GOING SO FAR? It took a bit of time to open, as these things do, but we’re really excited that the doors are now open, and people are absolutely loving their training sessions.

F45, commit to a few month’s training, and they will change their body. That, for me, is great.

AND IT’S BASED ON A 45 MINUTE CLASS. EVERYONE CAN FIND 45 MINUTES IN THEIR SCHEDULES… Absolutely, we’ve all got those apps F45 IS REALLY POPULAR AROUND THE WORLD, AND IS that tell us how long we’ve been doing something, so you can find RENOWNED FOR OFFERING the time. We’ve tried to give people a PROPER FUNCTIONAL great experience too so we have great FITNESS. WHAT ATTRACTED showers, changing rooms and home YOU TO OPENING THE comforts, but if you are ruthless you can FRANCHISE? get in, train, leave and not look back!

F45 has been around for a while but its only just come to the UK. There WILL F45 WORK FOR are a thousand open worldwide. The ANYONE, NO MATTER THEIR majority of people want to get into STARTING FITNESS LEVEL? decent shape but there’s so much Yes. You are working against yourself, conflicting information out there, it’s so if you can’t do 30 seconds of an difficult for people to know what to exercise, you can only do what you do. With F45 you are putting your can do. But you have the opportunity body through strenuous workouts to push yourself, and do better the but afterwards you feel a sense of next time. And as you get better, and accomplishment and that makes a fitter and start losing weight, you will massive difference. It’s a massively notice those differences. It’s about you psychological thing and once you’ve trying to push yourself. Our classes tried it, it’s addictive. If you haven’t, it’s easy to scoff at, until you do give it a go are completely mixed ability. I’ve got some over 50s coming as well and realise this is what training is like, as younger people. But you are only and this is what my body should feel working against yourself, there aren’t like. It’s really nice. expectations. It’s all inclusive and that’s the beauty of it.

YOU’RE FAMILIAR WITH A WHOLE MYRIAD OF WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE TRAINING SYSTEMS. WHAT MAKES F45 APPEAL TO YOU? BATH AS YOUR LOCATION? It has a great history in terms of rugby, Because I’ve had exposure to so many and it’s a great place to go. We looked different types of training, I only ever promote and work with things I actually at London, but there’s a lot of saturation believe in. F45 is something I would use there, so we started thinking Bath in my downtime, it’s something I came was the perfect place. It is the right demographic for us and we have been across in Australia and LA, and really able to open a pretty special place that enjoyed it. Someone could go into an

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we feel is head and shoulders above the rest.

DO YOU SEE YOURSELF PURSUING FITNESS AS A BUSINESS AT THE END OF YOUR PLAYING DAYS? I have lots of interests, as my wife always tells me! Health and fitness are really important to me; I’m always going to train, and have fitness goals. I occupy certain space on social media and have an appearance I think people will want to know how to achieve. I enjoy sharing that knowledge and I love writing, so I want to continue with it all.

My favourite hobby at the moment is DJing, unbelievably. It’s something that gives me that element of performance I think a lot of sportsmen miss when they finish playing.

• f45training.co.uk/bath

Trowbridge Chiropodist Peter Wilkinson M.Inst.Ch.P

VALUE YOUR HEALTH & WELLBEING? Systematic Kinesiology

A natural, holistic approach to healthcare which can help:

IMPROVING YOUR FOOT HEALTH We can help with...

• corns • calluses • hard skin • ingrown toenails • footcare for the elderly, diabetics & those with poor circulation • advice & support

• Weight Management • IBS/Gut Health • Sports/Other Injuries • Skin Complaints • Hormone Imbalances • Migraines/Headaches

• Allergies/Intolerances • Fibromyalgia • Back Pain • Chronic Fatigue • Stress/Anxiety • Depression ...& Much More

Member of the Institute of Chiropodist and Podiatrists

Call today to make an appointment

Jo Brewer Kinesiology

Tel: 01225 571030

Balanced Health For Body & Mind

Find us at: 13 St Georges Works, Silver St, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8AA

Tel: 01373 859689 or 07906 063489 jo@jbkinesiology.co.uk www.jbkinesiology.co.uk

www.trowbridgechiropodist.co.uk Find us on Facebook: Trowbridge - Chiropodist Follow us on Twitter: @TrowChiropodist

V I TA L I T Y D AY S PA

A sanctuary of relaxation in Bradford On Avon

Vitality Relaxation & Day Spa provides 5* luxury treatments and therapies in a tranquil and welcoming environment, at affordable prices.

Only 100% natural and cruelty free products are stocked and used in the spa, and they are sourced from a local company.

Treat your mum with a luxury Mother’s Day Gift Bag (Available 19-30 March). Plus 15% OFF ANY FACIAL TREATMENT incl a glass of fizz & chocolates (Available 26-30 March).

Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, evening appointments available upon request

01225 309356 - vitalitydayspa.co.uk - book@vitalitydayspa.co.uk 8 Market St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LH

| bath rugby

THE NEXT GENERATION The future looks bright for Bath Rugby as their u18s side came from behind to seal third place in the Under 18 Academy League last month.

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ath Rugby’s Under 18s side finished off a memorable campaign by coming from behind to beat Wasps in spectacular fashion to take third place in the Under 18s Academy League Finals Day at Allianz Park on Sunday 17 February. Wasps led 43-24 at half time, but Bath shut them out for most of the second half and scored four tries, including the winner from Nat Arnold, to secure a 52-48 victory.

The 2018/19 season has been fantastic for this young team, made up predominantly of Beechen Cliff students, with memorable victories over Exeter (64-7), Bristol (77-17) and Saracens (21-29 at Allianz Park).

Their only loss of the campaign was by a single point away at Gloucester (23-22). It was only their failure to gain a bonus point win in their final match of the regular season (a 19-7 win over London Irish) that saw them contest the 3rd/4th play off rather than the final itself. Their successful campaign has also seen six players: Orlando Bailey, Xavier Hastings, Nahum Merigan, Max Ojomoh, George Worboys and John Stewart included in an England U18s Development Camp.

Bath Rugby Academy Manager, Andy Rock said: “We are incredibly pleased for this group of players and we are proud of each and every one them.

Their England selection is recognition of their performances over a small snapshot of this current season, but we are lucky enough to have seen them all develop over a number of years and to have seen them grow as young men here at Bath. There are a number of other young players

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The likes of Max Ojomoh (left) and Orlando Bailey look set for a bright future with Bath Rugby

who are developing and performing well in our U18s and it is important to also recognise that. These selections are a result of the hard work and performances of our U18 group as a whole as well as of those individuals that are named”.

Having spent their final season together, it is well worth looking out for these young players in next season’s United side - they may well be very familiar names soon!

• bathrugby.com

THE CLASH

The Clash is back on Saturday 6 April as Bath host Bristol Bears in a derby day showdown. Over 120,000 supporters have descended on Twickenham over the last two years, and this is your last chance to get tickets, which cost from just £15 for adults. With live music, free family entertainment and a West Country food and drink festival in the West Fan Village it should be a great family day out this Easter.

• bathrugby.com/theclash

“Their successful campaign has also seen six players included in an England U18s Development Camp.”

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

2 March

15:00

H

Harlequins

GP

8 March

19:45

H

Saracens

GP

24 March

15:00

A

Exeter Chiefs

GP

6 April

14:00

H*

Bristol Bears

GP

12-14 April

TBC

A

Gloucester

GP

TV

| puzzles

THAT’S INTERESTING...

Each month ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD, former researcher from ‘QI’ and author of The Meaning of Tingo, poses a vocabulary quiz from our local Wiltshire dialect.

1) Pucksey a)wool taken from a dead sheep b) a large playing marble c) dirty, messy, muddy

2. Sowlegrove a) a grumpy person b) the month of February c) the grown-out shoot of a stored potato

3. Bobbant a) the youngest of a litter of pigs b) a badly manufactured tiddlywink, flat on both sides c) of a girl: forward, romping

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4. Scag a) to tear clothes, or snag on something b) the swamp surface of a wet ploughed field c) a small cavity in a rock

INTERESTING FACTS The Wiltshire dialect has several interesting notions and phrases. A ‘moonraker’ is a native of Wiltshire.

It is named after “rusticks who, seeing the figure of the moon

in the pond, tried to rake it out”.

‘Meg’s diversions’ are boisterous, noisy antics (also known as ‘Meg’s delight’ and a term first recorded in the army in the early 1800’s, where it described frivolous fun to be had when off-duty) and a ‘Queen’s cushion’ is a seat for a little girl, made by two persons crossing hands, and so carrying her between them (likewise, a ‘King’s cushion’ for a little boy).

ANSWERS 1C, 2B, 3C, 4A

Can you guess the correct definition?

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

| puzzles

TEA BREAK TEASERS

EU COUNTRY WORDSEARCH

What/who is missing from the grid?

AUSTRIA

FRANCE

BELGIUM BULGARIA

GERMANY GREECE

CROATIA CYPRUS

HUNGARY IRELAND

DENMARK ESTONIA

ITALY LATVIA

FINLAND

SUDOKU

MEDIUM

WIN A £20 iTUNES VOUCHER! Email your answers to these trivia questions to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk by 23.03.19 to be in with a chance of winning a £20 iTunes voucher. Good luck!

Q1: How many countries will be left in the EU when we leave?

Q2: Which of these was the last to join?

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: Kruis Quiz answers: 1: Ireland 2: Scotland 3: 2003 4: 2010 5: 2015

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Q3: In what year was the Euro introduced (first as just an accounting currency)?

Q4: When Denmark, Ireland and The UK joined in 1973 how many members were there in total?

Q5: After we leave how many countries that are part of the European continent will not be part of The EU? Be sure to include your contact details so we can get in touch with you if you are our winner!

| last word

E

THE ‘B’ WORD...

very month I have to find a small space in my schedule to sit down, hopefully with a bit of peace and quiet, to write what I think is a relatively humorous piece about a random subject that has come to me at some point over the previous couple of weeks.

Sometimes thinking of what to write about is easy but more often than not it takes a while - I have done over 100 of these things now, most topics have been covered! I need a subject that has legs, something I can extract more than just a few lines of humour from and ideally, a subject that’s not too contentious.

Two and a half years ago something momentous happened in this country, something very contentious and something I’ve managed to avoid even mentioning, I think, until now. March 2019 though is now

The main problem I have with it, from a writing level I mean, is how to extract any laughs at all from something so important. It’s a subject so divisive that, if we believe the media (traditional and social) anyway - a dodgy enough practice in itself - it ends friendships and has members of the same family not speaking to each other. How on earth am I going to raise even the smallest giggle writing about the biggest thing to happen to this country in a generation?

I could, I suppose, write about the politicians. They would seem to be the obvious choice, on both sides, as to be quite honest they end up doing and saying the most ridiculous things but they just look and sound rather pathetic. It would be like trying to get you to laugh at a poor bedraggled puppy who has been out in the rain for hours and is looking at you with eyes that say

“Two and a half years ago something momentous happened in this country, something very contentious and something I’ve managed to avoid even mentioning, I think, until now.” here and this month (please look away now if you are of a nervous disposition as I am going to mention the dreaded B-word) we are going to be leaving the EU. Brexit is upon us. I was going to put a spoiler alert but, honestly, what’s the point? If you aren’t aware of it now then…. well I don’t really know what to say it’s been everywhere for so long you would, almost literally, have to be living on another planet not to have heard and even then I’m sure something would have reached you.

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“Please make it stop”. I can’t do that though as the very people who are supposed to be running the country, the people we voted for, the educated, serious, people of power in this country are running around in circles with, it seems, no more idea of what is going than…well…a puppy!!

I could write about the people.

The poor souls who voted this way or that, in or out, but the decision they made on 23 June 2016 was, for them, a very personal decision

that, hopefully, was thought about seriously and not taken lightly, a cross marked on a piece of paper that would change their lives for ever. How can you laugh at that?

I voted that day, it’s so long ago I can barely remember in which box I made my mark, but whichever way you voted one thing is for certain, at the end of this month things will change… Whatever happens, whatever deal is struck let’s hope it is for the better.

Next month I will be mostly writing about clowns and comedians… things that are supposed to make you laugh… No more bedraggled puppies, I promise.

Phil Rockliffe

www.cheverell.co.uk