The West Wilts Magazine - September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 // ISSUE 138

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contents

September 2021 // issue 138

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Published by Wired Publishing Editor Lisa Rockliffe Contributors Fran Stevens, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Katie Thomson, 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: © National Trust Images Arnhel de Serra

eptember’s edition is a bit of a landmark moment for us. Not only is it the 12th anniversary of the first magazine we ever printed but it is also the first magazine since April 2020 to include local listings. It’s been almost 18 months since we last collated this section of the magazine and it felt fantastic to be putting it back in. It feels like normality is getting ever closer!

Naturally I suggest you all take a look at the events that are coming up over the next month, but there is plenty more to enjoy too. Our local news pages are similarly crammed with the likes of Devizes Arts Festival (p10), Peacock Arts Trail (p12), Trowbridge Heritage Festival (p15) and the 20th Circuit of Bath Walk (p20) all to look forward to this autumn.

We also have some reader offers and a competition, including a free cream tea for two with a treatment at Woolley Grange Hotel (p18), the chance to win a Lovejoys veg box (p24) and 20% off at Kondition Studio in Westbury (p55).

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Away from that we have a 10-page guide to education from Early Years to Sixth Form (p33), we take a trip round Stourhead (p28) and a whole lot more. Enjoy!

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

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in this issue...

LOCAL LISTINGS What’s On in September LOCAL NEWS Devizes Arts Festival Peacock Arts Trail Trowbridge Museum Woolley Grange Hotel spa offer Circuit of Bath Walk

4 10 12 15 18 20

FOOD & DRINK Eat the Seasons Love your Leftovers recipes

24 25

HOME & GARDEN Axford Interiors Stephen Graver The Nursery Garden Jobs for September

44 46 50 52

FEATURES Autumn Colours at Stourhead 10-page Education Guide 2021 Lacock Photography

28 33 42

HEALTH & WELLBEING Kondition Studio Vitality Day Spa

55 61

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Wansbroughs

59

BATH RUGBY Bath prepare for the new season

60

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES That’s interesting...

62 Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku 64 COMMENT The Last Word

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events

listings local

SEPTEMBER 2021

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL

Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 melkshamassemblyhall.com UNRAVELLING WILBURYS 3 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £18 The Unravelling Wilburys are a bunch of good ol’ boys who turn their skills to replicating the sounds and songs of the late 80’s super-group, The Traveling Wilburys.

FLOYD IN THE FLESH 4 September, 8pm Tickets: £20

Will Lawton & The Alchemists, Town Hall Arts

From the psychedelic 60’s through to the polished delivery of their later work, Floyd in the Flesh pride themselves on delivering an authentic Pink Floyd sound and show every time.

ELO, BEATLES & BEYOND 18 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £16 Fronted by top tributes to Jeff Lynne and Paul McCartney, the band present a brand new show featuring the songs of ELO, The Beatles and the symphonic pop that these two icons have been involved with.

TOWN HALL ARTS

Market Street, Trowbridge BA14 8EQ Tel: 01225 774306 trowbridgetownhall.com WILL LAWTON AND THE ALCHEMISTS 11 September, 8pm Tickets: £8 Singer-songwriter Will Lawton weaves a tapestry of live piano with a supple and distinctive voice that speaks of love and loss, truth and lies.

ONIKA VENUS 18 September, 8pm Tickets: £8 Onika’s soulful voice and reggae style has captured the hearts of audiences on two continents.

Doric String Quartet, WMC

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JUICE MENACE 25 September, 8pm Tickets: £10

This energetic young rap artist looks set for a breakout year as she experiments with new genres and proves to be an undeniable force to reckoned with.

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE

Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 wiltshiremusic.org.uk ANDRÉ RIEU (AS LIVE) 2021 SUMMER CONCERT: TOGETHER AGAIN 11 & 18 September, 7pm Tickets: from £8 Rieu has handpicked his all-time favourite show tunes, arias and dance numbers from stages around the world - including many never seen before on the big screen - in a global spectacular that will make you smile, sing and dance.

DORIC STRING QUARTET 22 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £24 WMC Quartet in Residence return to launch the new season with a classical treat full of Viennese elegance that opens with Haydn’s scintillating Quartet Op. 50 No. 2.

MINI BSO: UP IN THE AIR FAMILY SHOW 26 September, 3pm Tickets: £12 / £7 U18s + students Join Mini BSO for an afternoon of interactive games, fantastic music and great entertainment that will have you reaching for the skies.

Send your event listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

events

POUND ARTS CENTRE

Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 poundarts.org.uk ROB AUTON’S TIME SHOW 3 September, 8pm Tickets: £12 ‘The Time Show’ is the latest comedy/ theatre/spoken word show by writer and performer Rob Auton.

JOHN SMITH 16 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £15 (Concs: £14) Essex-born John Smith has built a reputation as one of the UK’s finest guitarists and songwriters.

OLGA KOCH: HOMECOMING 18 September, 8pm Tickets: £14 Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated comedian and star of Mock The Week and QI, Olga Koch comes back with her third show!

DRINK RUM WITH EXPATS 25 September, 8pm Tickets: £12 (Concs: £10) Here’s the story of what happened when Becca and Louise, celebrating their final year as Europeans, headed to 2018 European Capital of Culture Malta, to drink rum with Brits abroad and found a lot more than they expected.

CIRCUS OF HORRORS - REVAMPED & ROCKIN’ 4 September, 7.30pm Tickets: from £23 - Adults Only The new Circus of Horrors show will be a celebration of the 25 years and will include an amazing phantasmaglorious amalgamation of acts, driven by a rock ‘n’ roll sound scape, a show that will have you sat on the edge of your seat when not falling off it with laughter.

interaction, striking costumes and backed by a band of world class musicians, Women In Rock has built a reputation as the leading rock show around.

BROADWAY SPECTACULAR 17 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £19.69 A sensational cast of West End quality performers present a selection of songs from the greatest musicals of all time: Phantom, Les Miserables, Chicago, Cats, Mamma Mia, Oliver, Singing In The Rain, My Fair Lady, Cabaret, Copacabana, Mary Poppins, Wicked, Joseph… and many more!

Sensational Vocalists! Beautiful Dancers! Dazzling Costumes!

STEVE KNIGHTLEY 23 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £19.04 Steve’s latest outing is intended for anyone fascinated by the art and craft of song writing. Exploring his extensive back catalogue and introducing unheard, new material he explores the themes and stories that inspire him and shows how music and words can become lyrics and chords and notes can meld to create songs that acquire a life of their own!

FROME MEMORIAL THEATRE

Christchurch St West, Frome, BA11 1EB Tel: 01373 462795 fmt.website

BEN FOGLE - TALES FROM THE WILDERNESS 12 September, 4pm & 8pm Tickets: £26.50 Join Ben in this uplifting and exciting show when he’ll be sharing his stories of the wilderness. Ben has climbed Everest, been swimming with crocodiles, marooned for a year on an uninhabited island, walked to the South Pole; crossed the empty quarter with camels, rowed across the Atlantic Ocean, swum from Alcatraz, had a flesh-eating disease and messed around with ferrets!

BLAKE 17 September, 7.30pm Tickets: from £23 Celebrating a new decade together, they have chosen their all-time favourites that highlight their harmonies better than ever before. Join them to hear an eclectic new selection of classical anthems, West End hits & contemporary covers.

NEELD ARTS CENTRE

High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER Tel: 01249 446699 neeld.co.uk WOMEN IN ROCK 11 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50 Since 2016, Women In Rock have been wowing audiences across the UK & Europe with their high energy performances. Featuring soaring vocals, choreography, audience 6

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Ben Fogle, Frome Memorial Theatre

For full listings go to each venue’s website

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events Jo Whiley, Cheese & Grain

CHEESE & GRAIN 5 The Bridge, Frome BA11 1AR Box Office: 01373 455420 cheeseandgrain.com

BETH ORTON 9 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £23 Brit Award winning songstress Beth Orton returns to The Cheese for a special one off solo acoustic gig.

JO WHILEY’S 90S ANTHEMS 10 & 11 September, 8pm Tickets: £20 All the best tracks from a great decade for music. Undoubtedly the biggest night out you’ll have all year!

T-REXTASY 12 September, 7pm Tickets: from £26 T-Rextasy have now been performing around the world for over 20 years, a career that ironically out lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. Truly a rock’n’roll concert for all ages.

OYSTERBAND 15 September, 7.30pm Tickets: from £22 Oysterband are back to fulfil rescheduled shows and announce new ones. They’ll be playing songs from a brand-new album as well as classic favourites - uplifting songs for uncertain times.

AN EVENING WITH PAUL MERSON & MATT LE TISSIER 16 September, 7.45pm Tickets: from £24 8

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England internationals, football icons and pundits Paul Merson & Matt Le Tissier will be presenting a special ‘An Evening With’ at The Cheese & Grain. The night will feature a candid interview with the pair and then be opened up to Q&A from the audience.

reached #4 in the UK and was the band’s first album to enter the US charts. Succeeding ‘All Mod Cons’, the album became a commercial success, earning them their first top ten hit single – ‘The Eton Rifles’.

TREVOR NELSON – SOUL NATION 17 September, 8pm Tickets: from £20 Pioneer of the UK urban scene and multi-award winning DJ Trevor Nelson returns to Frome for a night of classic R&B and soul.

FROM THE SPECIALS – NEVILLE STAPLE BAND 18 September, 7.30pm Tickets: from £18.50 Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the hit single Ghost Town, Neville Staple – From The Specials, will be playing shows up and down the country. Including Drew Stansall in the line-up and support from Roddy Radiation and the Skabilly Rebels, it will truly be a ‘Special’ night.

MARTHA WAINWRIGHT 23 September, 7.30pm Tickets: from £31 The beguiling performer and songwriter returns with Love Will Be Reborn.

GOLDIE LOOKIN CHAIN 24 September, 7pm Tickets: £18 Coming straight out of Newport, GLC are officially Britain’s biggest rap group. They perform around the world and at every major festival, making millions laugh along the way.

FROM THE JAM 30 September, 7pm Tickets: £31 From the Jam will tour the UK celebrating the 40th Anniversary of The Jam’s 4th studio album ‘Setting Sons’. The critically acclaimed album

From The Specials Neville Staple Band, Cheese & Grain

THE THREE HORSESHOES

Frome Rd, Bradford on Avon Tel: 01225 865876 All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm BILLY BONES 3 September THIS IS HIP 4 September MODEL FOLK 5 September BUCKY RAGE WEEKENDER 10 – 12 September Starring The Bucky Rage and a selection of Glasgow’s finest noise/ music/chaos makers.

THE BOOT HILL ALL-STARS 17 September VIRUS 18 September RAGGED UNION 19 September BILLY IN THE LOW GROUND 24 September THE SETBACKS 25 September THE OLD DRY SKULLS 26 September

Send your event listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

FRIDAY 15TH - SUNDAY 17TH OCTOBER TICKETS: £12.50 INCLUDES 2 BEER TOKENS

GREAT CHOICE OF BEERS!!!

LIVE MUSIC, SPIRITS BAR, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD ON SITE For further info & tickets go to:

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local news

DEVIZES ARTS FESTIVAL RETURNS!

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evizes Arts Festival is back in November and offers a great line up of events for music lovers. First up on Thursday 11 November is the world-renowned Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club ‘On Tour’.

With some of the best jazz musicians in the country in their line-up they Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club ‘On Tour’

will bring the best in live jazz to the Corn Exchange, Devizes.

albums (including with ‘IOTA’) to her credit. At Devizes Assembly Room she’ll bring the songs of both Joni Next up on Saturday 13 November Mitchell and Sandy Denny to the is Joni, Sandy & Me – An Evening stage, interspersed with some of her with Sally Barker. Sally was Tom Jones’ own tracks. finalist on ‘The Voice UK 2014’; she has toured extensively and has many Finally on Friday 19 November the Ceres Hall Corn Exchange will play host to Motown Gold. Audiences can party with one of the top bands celebrating the finest music from the Motown and Classic Soul eras. Tickets are £18.

As well as these headline events, the festival will also see free ‘Fringe’ events taking place throughout Devizes. Online booking starts on Friday 10 September 2021. See the website for more details and to book.

• devizesartsfestival.org.uk

NEW GALLERY OPENS IN SALISBURY

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he Vanner Gallery is an exciting new space close to the cathedral which will show original artworks from regional, national and international artists and makers. In the opening show, CONNECT: People, Art & Place, curator Prudence Maltby explores the concept of connection at a time when the city emerges from adversity. Following the Novichok attacks in 2018 and more recently the pandemic, Maltby uses people, art and place as the cornerstone to examine how we process our experience of living separate lives through uncertainty.

Gallery director David Christie says, “I’m excited to bring Salisbury’s new gallery to life and for it to play

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its part in the city’s post-pandemic regeneration. Our hope is that it will become a favourite place for people to discover, appreciate and acquire contemporary fine art.”

CONNECT: People, Art & Place 17 September - 24 December 2021 The Vanner Gallery, 45 High Street, Salisbury, SP1 2PB Open Mon: by appointment; Tues to Sat: 10am – 5pm

EXHIBITING ARTISTS Julia Atkinson, Julie Ayton, Eleanor Bartlett, Brian Bishop, Lucinda Burgess, Henny Burnett, Fran Donovan, Ruth Dresman, Susan Francis, Mirka GoldenHann, Michelle Griffiths, Patrick Hallissey, Alex Hanna, Julia Polonski, Jane Ponsford, Peter Randall-Page, Roger Stephens, Joanna Still, Anita Taylor, Julieann Worrall Hood.

• vannergallery.com Julie Ayton, Harvest Moon Jar 2021 Stoneware , H33cm

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

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Real Ales | Beer Garden | Pub Games Real Log Fires | Parking Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA

Telephone 01225 865876 Find us on Facebook

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BOOKING OPEN FROM 10th SEPT

COMING UP THIS NOVEMBER...

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club On Tour Thursday 11th November Corn Exchange 7.30pm | £21 Joni, Sandy & Me – An Evening with Sally Barker Saturday 13th November Assembly Room 8pm | £16 Motown Gold Friday 19th November Corn Exchange 8pm | £18 Plus free ‘Fringe’ events throughout Devizes

devizesartsfestival.org.uk ft

local news

PEACOCK ARTS TRAIL RETURNS!

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orth-West Wiltshire’s Peacock Arts Trail flies again, from 11-19 September, and over 70 fabulous artists and craftspeople from Corsham, Chippenham, Melksham, Box and surrounding villages are taking part.

This year, the traditional studio openings and group exhibitions will be joined by an online programme of virtual events, demos, expanded artists’ galleries and blogs. It is free to visit venues and to watch the digital content.

up in a comfy chair and explore the online programme: videos of artists at work; talks giving insights into their inspiration and pages of online exhibitions by each creative person.”

Corsham has a special art exhibition taking place in selected town centre windows, Chippenham’s King Paintings By Lucia

Alfred Hall and The Yelde Hall will be hosting a group exhibition and Melksham also plans their best-ever Peacock Arts Trail with a group display at the Town Hall. For details see the website or find the trail on FB, Instagram and Twitter.

• peacockartstrail.co.uk Lucy’s Wild Creations

Lucia Lovett, a Chippenham artist taking part, said “Check out the website for latest details of the venues welcoming visitors, follow the striking pink arrows to their locations, pop in, see the artist’s work and have a chat. Alternatively, curl

COMING UP AT HOPE NATURE CENTRE

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he team at Hope Nature Centre is preparing for an exciting autumn! First on the schedule after the busy summer period is on 24 September, where the café is taking part in the Macmillan Coffee Morning, helping to raise vital funds for this extremely important charity.

It won’t be long until things start to get spooky! From 1 October visitors to the animal park can experience the ‘Witches Brew Trail’; just help the resident witch find her missing potion ingredients. Find them all and she may treat you (or turn you into a frog!). From 29-31 October, visitors can enjoy the ‘fangtastic’

Trick or Treat Fun Days, featuring fancy dress competitions, pumpkin carving (pre-bookable on the website), animal petting and more!

After the Pumpkins have been carved, and the spooky decorations removed, it will be time to start getting ready for Christmas!

Tickets for their massively popular Christmas event are already on sale.

With a brand-new grotto it’s set to be the biggest and best Christmas event yet! Tickets sold out weeks in advance last year, so don’t miss the perfect opportunity to visit Santa and get into the Christmas spirit!

For more information on all upcoming events, and to pre-book your tickets, head to the website.

Enjoy pumpkin carving at Hope Nature Centre this Halloween

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• hopenaturecentre.org.uk

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Call Andy today on � 01225 807775

e andy@wired-publishing.co.uk westwiltsmag.co.uk

Trowbridge Museum Visit us today!

A whole new second floor & fantastic events programme to explore!

image © Roy McDine

trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

local news

HERITAGE FESTIVAL images © Roy McDine

This autumn sees the return of TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM'S Heritage Festival, the first since reopening after their huge redevelopment project.

You can see the history of Trowbridge and its surrounds going back over 1000 years

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rowbridge Heritage Festival will begin on Thursday 21 October, kicking off a jam-packed 10 days of historic activities and events. Whether you are ready to immerse yourself in their interactive ‘Horrible Histories’ inspired talk (fun for all of the family), want to sit back and relax in a charming film screening, or you fancy stepping back in time with re-enactors and memory days, there is something for everyone!

"Many of the festival events are free to take part in and are perfect for a family audience"

Drawing sessions and have a go at new crafts throughout the duration of the festival, before it culminates with a two-day history conference, packed full of interesting talks, each spotlighting the fantastic heritage of Wiltshire’s county town.

famous mouse hunt and fascinating stories from this unique town within the West Country. Go to the website for more details and to book but be quick, this is a festival not to be missed!

• trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

Many of the festival events are free and are perfect for a families, taking place in Trowbridge museum's brand new Learning Hub located on their newly opened upper floor. As well as the family-friendly programme there will also be a succession of adult-only talks, workshops and film viewings catering for an older audience.

The Dobcross Loom

Visitors will have to chance to look In addition to the Festival the at never-before-seen objects from museum will also be hosting its the museum’s collection in Costume usual array of family interactives, the THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 15

PRESENT SHOWS FROM NOW TILL XMAS FOR YOU TO INDULGE....

£18.50

ADVANCE

A jam packed day of entertainment for all the family plus lots & lots of cheese!

LIVESTOCK HORSES CHEESE MUSIC STAGE DOG SHOW FOOD & DRINK FUN FAIR SHOPPING COUNTRY PURSUITS VINTAGE MACHINERY CELEBRITY GUESTS & MUCH MORE!

TICKETS MUST BE BOUGHT IN ADVANCE

www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk

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West Woodlands Showground, Frome

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

reader offer

TIME TO RELAX

Enjoy a spa treatment with a friend at WOOLLEY GRANGE this autumn and claim a complimentary cream tea!

Find time to catch up with a friend at a spa treatment this autumn

and prices of all treatments on offer can be seen on the spa page of the hotel’s website.

NOT JUST FOR WOMEN!

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here is something rather magical about going for a spa treatment at Woolley Grange. As you enter the grounds and are greeted by the sight of the magnificent old Jacobean manor and gardens, a sense of timelessness pervades and the weight of the world drops away.

The Spa, housed in a contemporary oak-timber building blending into the Bath stone wall of the kitchen garden, is warm and welcoming.

The hotel invites you to spend time before or after your treatment to explore the walled garden, have

READER OFFER

Book two Elemis Back, Shoulder and Neck massages for you and a friend and enjoy a complimentary cream tea afterwards.

Simply ring the spa on 01225 865979 to book and then bring the voucher in this magazine with you. For T&Cs please see voucher 18

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a coffee on the terrace or a walk around the 14 acre grounds. Why not pre-book in for a relaxing lunch too by award winning Chef Dean Westcar and his kitchen brigade?

Take time to relax.

"The hands of a highly trained Elemis therapist are profoundly effective anti-aging tools."

FACIALS AND BODY TREATMENTS

Elemis have introduced a fabulous range of treatments and products for men too. The Spa at Woolley Grange recommends the High Performance Skin Energiser for Men which includes a hard-working facial that maximises cell regeneration by boosting circulation as well as a scalp and foot massage to deeply relax. Also check out the Biotech Supercharger Facial for Men.

THE PERFECT GIFT

An Elemis gift pack makes a perfect present for the one you love…and represents great value for money!

See the gift packs on display when you visit: perfect for… dare we say the C word yet?!

Woolley Grange also offer online gift vouchers for both products and treatments. There is the fabulous ‘Top to Toe’ treat or how about a Prescriptive Facial or even a spa overnight stay? Visit the gift vouchers page of the hotel website for details or call 01225 865979.

The hands of a highly trained Elemis therapist are profoundly effective anti-aging tools. Using a combination of massage techniques • woolleygrangehotel.co.uk from around the world, this is where intuition meets expertise with clinically proven results.

With two treatment rooms plus a manicure and pedicure station the experienced spa therapists at Woolley Grange can offer a range of Elemis and Jessica Nails treatments, including Elemis Biotec Facials and a The Spa is a modern building that blends beautifully with the old Cotswold stone walls relaxing range of massages. Details

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

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

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

local news

CIRCUIT OF BATH WALK JULIAN HOUSE is calling on families, friends and work colleagues to take on its epic 20-mile walking challenge – The Circuit of Bath Walk.

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he Circuit of Bath sponsored walk, now in its 20th year, takes place on Sunday 26 September 2021 and will see participants walking the circular route taking in some of Bath’s most beautiful near countryside, surrounding villages and taking in spectacular views across the historic city itself including from Little Solsbury Hill and South Stoke Millennium Viewpoint.

While the charity is encouraging people to take on the full 20-mile route, participants can choose their own distance and start point thanks to the five checkpoints along the route and a free shuttle bus service between each.

Senior Community & Events Fundraiser, Jess Gay said: “The Circuit of Bath is a really important event.

By taking part, you not only get an incredible sense of achievement after walking 20 miles over challenging terrain but also the knowledge that the sponsorship you raise will help rebuild lives. By taking part, participants are helping to support vulnerable and at-risk men, women and children in our emergency access hostel and domestic abuse refuge. This year has been tough for everyone, not least those in our services which been in very high demand during the pandemic and will continue to be as lockdown eases. Our supporters are helping to save lives!"

Self-care coach and Nordic Walking Instructor, Yvonne Bignall took on the challenge last year. She said: “We had so much fun and it really is a beautiful

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The Circuit of Bath Walk is now in its 20th year

"By taking part, participants are helping to support vulnerable and at-risk men, women and children in our emergency access hostel and domestic abuse refuge." circuit of Bath, places I had never seen before with spectacular views that feed the soul. Not to be missed!”

Jess Gay added: “While participant’s entry fee goes towards the cost of organising the walk, every pound and penny they raise through sponsorship goes towards helping us support vulnerable men, women and children in our care. We hope people will aim to raise as much as possible to help us through this extremely challenging time so we can support as many people as possible.

"We are very aware of the situation around COVID-19 and will continue to monitor and follow the advice being issued. The safety of the community, participants, staff and volunteers is and always will be our top priority. We would like to reassure anyone who

purchases a ticket to the event that they will have the option of a refund if the event has to be cancelled due to COVID.” Further details and tickets can be found on the website. For any other details please get in touch with Community and Events Fundraiser Jess Gay on 07939 055432 or jessica.gay@julianhouse.org.uk • circuitofbathwalk.co.uk

WILTSHIRE YEOMAN

Come & try our delicious homemade food!

ENJOY OUR LARGE SUNNY GARDEN LIVE MUSIC NIGHTS See our Facebook page for details ✦ Large children's play area ✦ Doggie friendly ✦ Ample parking ✦ Delicious Sunday lunches ✦ Locally brewed ales

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Find us on Facebook for upcoming events

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

THE

CROSS KEYS at Blatchbridge

Quiz Night 9 & 23rd September th

Bookings only, Teams of 6

Meal Deal 2 Courses for £8.95 Tues - Fri lunchtimes

2 x Sizzlers Tuesday to Thursday Only £15

• Large Beer Garden • Children & Dogs Welcome • Sunday Roasts • Outdoor Seating Area • Availability For Functions 01373 472348 Blatchbridge, Frome, Somerset, BA11 5EJ www.thecrosskeys.info

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Open Tue-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 12noon -7pm | Food Served Tue-Sat 12noon-2pm & 6pm-9pm, Sun 12noon-4pm

THE

WESTBROOK

Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2EE

tel 01380 850418

www.westbrookbromham.co.uk

***BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY ALONG TO OUR FAMILY FRIENDLY PUB THIS SUMMER!*** Kevin & Louise invite you to visit The Westbrook. It offers an inviting bar, a beautiful sun deck, garden and a children’s play area. The menu is bursting with superb value traditional pub classics and top notch specials.

• FRESHLY COOKED FOOD • DAILY SPECIALS • LARGE GARDEN • CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA & BOUNCY CASTLE • REAL ALES • CAR PARK

OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY

• Wadworth Real Ales • Pretty Beer Garden • Children & Dog Friendly • Takeaway service • Gluten Free & Coeliac Menu Available • Large Car Park • Smaller Portions Available • B&B Accommodation

Please call us on 01225 782581 or book online OPEN: Wed - Sat 12-10pm, Sun 12-4.30pm FOOD SERVED: Wed - Sat 12-2.30pm & 5.30-8pm, Sun 12-3pm

01225 782 581 • theoldhamtree@gmail.com • theoldhamtree.co.uk • HAM GREEN, HOLT, TROWBRIDGE BA14 6PY

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1 Church Street Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LN

theswanbradford

theswanbradford.co.uk

swanbradford

@stayswan

01225 868686

AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD (prepared by our Thai Chefs) Available 7 Days A Week

12noon – 9pm

(Takeaway and local non-contact delivery service also available)

PUB CLASSICS MENU (available all day)

Available 7 Days A Week 12noon – 9pm Our pub also offers a great selection of real ales, lagers, ciders, wines & soft drinks.

NOW SERVING DELICIOUS BREAKFASTS

Monday to Friday 7.30am - 12noon, Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays 8am - 12noon Choose from... Full English, Eggs Benedict, Smoked Salmon & Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Waffles, Vegetarian & Vegan options and much more.

Table reservations are highly recommended call 01225 868686 ***Our Delicious Sunday Lunches will be returning in the Autumn***

food & drink

seasons eat the

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

S

upplies of fruit and vegetables are hit and miss in the supermarkets but we have been very fortunate in that our supply chain, even from the continent, has been pretty normal.

I hope you have carried on supporting local farm and village shops as much as possible over the summer, we have been keeping their shelves full of fresh stock, local wherever possible.

to name a few: beetroot, spinach, potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, watercress, chard, cavolo Nero and curly kale. And our fruit from Wye Valley has included strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, blackcurrants and redcurrant, early apples and juicy plums.

COMPETITION TIME This month we are giving away a fruit and veg box bursting with fresh goodies worth £25!

To enter the competition simply send us a photo of something you have grown yourself, in situ if possible! The competition closes at midnight on 20 September and the winner will be contacted by 30 September. Please email your home grown photos to neil@lovejoyswholesale.com.

The prize is to be collected from our warehouse in Melksham!

If you have a veg patch and have worked hard over the last few months then I think you would agree with me that you have had one of the best few weeks to admire and Obviously many people are eating harvest your crops, either vegetables out again as our restaurant and hotel or flowers. There is still time to grow trade has been busy and feeling back some salads and veg as you clear Neil to some kind of normal. any crops to make the most of your neil@lovejoyswholesale.com plot. The space you have might only A lot of pubs and restaurants have be as small as a window box or tub, @lovejoysuk added rooms for B and B as demand but you can still achieve something. @lovejoysuk has been high due to the staycation Just stick to something popularity this year. quite simple and easy • lovejoyswholesale.com like lettuce, rocket, One pub we supply turned their log spring onions, house into one of the poshest B&B radish and rooms I have ever seen. All hospitality winter salads. businesses have had to look at any other streams of income that they have, so hopefully fingers crossed the future of our whole trade is bright.

With rain and sunshine at fairly good timings all of our local and UK produce has been plentiful and good. We have had the following veg from the local area 24 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

LOVE YOUR LEFTOVERS

recipes

This month FRAN STEVENS, aka The Food Wife, is focusing on transforming leftovers into something delicious.

HOMEMADE CRISPS Serves 2-3 as a snack

One of the key lessons I learnt from my grandparents was ‘waste not want not’. Nothing would be wasted from a meal. Anything that wasn’t eaten would be used the next day. I’m a big fan of leftovers, less so when they are termed as ‘scraps’ which is my parents’ word of choice; “What’s for dinner, mum?” “Baked potato and scraps!”

Mmm, yummy...

✃

Anyway, on Sunday we had a roast chicken. I was going out for the day and prepared the potatoes in the morning, peeling them and leaving them in cold salted water ready to be par-boiled that afternoon. I was left with a large pile of potato peelings. I

left them in a large bowl of cold water too. Waste not want not! When I got home I drained the peelings and dried them in a clean tea towel, tossed them in a drizzle of garlic infused rapeseed oil, salt, pepper and smoked paprika and then spread them out on a lined baking sheet. I popped them in the oven for 30 minutes. I started at 200°C for the first 15 minutes and then jammed it up to 220°C for the final 15 (just check them every now and again to check how they’re getting on). The result? Potato peelings transformed into a pre-dinner crispy snack!

Now what to do with the leftover chicken and veggies? I will be using

my Instant Pot to make a Mexican Rice Bowl (see recipe below) and will incorporate the shredded chicken breast at the end, and prepping a hash too.

Making a hash is a perfect way to use up any leftover potatoes and vegetables from your roast. Roughly chop anything that’s left and add a chopped onion or a bunch of spring onions. Heat some vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan until hot and then add the leftovers, allowing them to form a crust, then moving about until everything is hot and crispy. Serve with a fried egg on top.

Delicious!

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 25

recipes shredded chicken (optional) Optional toppings Sliced spring onions Grated/crumbled cheese Shredded lettuce Diced tomato Sour cream Avocado/guacamole Sliced jalapeños Lime wedges Method Set your Instant Pot to sauté and add the oil along with the onion and pepper. Cook for a few of minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Add the tinned tomatoes and spice mix. Stir well. Sprinkle in the sweet corn and beans (if using). If you are using raw chicken breasts, place in the pot now.

Add the water and rice (sprinkle evenly around the pot).

'Instant Pot' Mexican Rice Bowl Serves 2-4 The Instant Pot multicooker is excellent for one-pot meals, especially as you can sauté ingredients first without using multiple pieces of equipment. This is just such a dish, it is quick to prepare and can be as easy (or as – moderately – complicated!) as you like; you can use homemade or shop bought spice mixes, omit any toppings or have all the toppings.

nb. It is important to keep the rice on the top of the contents in the Instant Pot to avoid it catching or burning.

Switch off sauté mode and place the lid on and ensure be valve is set to sealing. Manually set on high pressure for 10 minutes.

When complete, carefully release the pressure using a wooden spoon and a tea towel.

If you have cooked the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, shred these now. If you are using ready-cooked/ left over chicken, stir through the rice now. Replace the lid and leave for a couple of minutes to heat through.

26 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

✃

Ingredients 1 tbsp oil 1 red onion, medium dice 1 pepper, medium dice 1 tin of chopped tomatoes Serve each portion in bowls with a 1 portion of fajita spice mix (or a selection of toppings of your shop bought sachet) choice.

It is gluten free, and a good way to use 130g sweetcorn (tinned • thefoodwife.co.uk up leftovers from a roast and make or frozen) a completely different second meal.

150g basmati or However, it can also be vegan (just long grain rice don’t include any meat and keep the (approx. 1 Instant toppings vegan too). If you’re not Pot cup) including any meat then using beans 320ml water (2 is a good alternative protein. If you Instant Pot cups) are using meat, then it’s also a good 1 tin of kidney beans, drained way to bulk the meal out to serve (optional) more people.

2 raw chicken breasts or 250g cooked

✃

Award-Winning, Family Run Farm Shop

Established for over 30 years selling quality local produce Open 7 days a week 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

Orders now taken for Minimum Contact Collection & Delivery Email orders to sales@allingtonfarmshop.co.uk

autumn walks Looking across the lake towards the Pantheon © National Trust Images Tony Gill

SEASON OF MISTS AND MELLOW FRUIT FULNESS Enjoy the spectacular autumn colour of the trees this year at STOURHEAD...

28 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

stourhead

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 29

A

autumn walks utumn is Stourhead’s crowning glory as foliage in the landscape garden becomes ablaze with deep golds, ambers and rich reds. There are many hundreds of species of trees and shrubs at Stourhead, and it can take up to six weeks for the cosy autumn colours to flood the trees around the garden. No two visits are the same throughout this unpredictable time of year.

Though the schedule of the season is ever-changing, towards the end of summer the North American maples have begun to turn a scarlet red, while the Japanese acers, hornbeam and chestnuts also get their vivid display underway. A little later in autumn the tulip trees take on a yellow hue, while the oak and beech enact the season finale with bright oranges late in October.

In the garden, autumn crocuses provide a comforting contrast with their mauve and lilac shades.

Throughout the autumn, Stourhead will be offering free guided walks around the world-famous landscape gardens. Taking place twice daily on most days throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a walk

A young boy in the garden among the red maple leaves © National Trust Images Arnhel de Serra

and talk with a knowledgeable volunteer, including an insight into the historical background of

Rosehips, crab apples and autumn fruits abound © National Trust Images Chris Lacey

30 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Stourhead, as well as the artistry of the landscape and stunning architecture. There’s no need to book in advance - upon arrival, visitors can ask at reception for more details on the fascinating guided walks.

Beyond the tranquil lake and ornate temples, there are 2,500 acres of countryside to explore on the Stourhead estate. This includes an Iron Age hill fort and many acres of ancient woodland. The magnificent woodland surrounding Stourhead is full of autumn colour, with a canopy of ochre and copper hues overhead, and a carpet of crunchy leaves underfoot. Visitors can explore Bonham wood on a short,

stourhead seeking warmer climes for their winter stay. At Stourhead, this includes large flocks of golden plover on the open farmland, along with lapwings.

• nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead Many birds, including lapwings, arrive in autumn

GENERAL INFO Near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD

circular walk which ventures behind the Temple of Apollo in the garden through picturesque woodland, returning along the disused airfield that formed part of RAF Zeals during the Second World War.

considerable archaeological interest, the walk includes a Neolithic enclosure dating from around 3000 BC, a circular earthwork, Bronze Age barrows and an Iron Age hill fort to the south.

"The magnificent woodland surrounding Stourhead is full of autumn colour, with a canopy of ochre and copper hues overhead, and a carpet of crunchy leaves underfoot."

Walkers can also amble to Whitesheet Hill to take in the panoramic views over the estate and surrounding countryside, under the golden veil of low autumn sun. Encompassing an area of

An impression of wildness surrounds the Stourhead estate in autumn and abundant autumn fruits include rosehips and crab apples. Autumn also marks the arrival of many overseas birds

• The outdoor spaces, house, shop and restaurant are open daily. You no longer need to book your visit in advance.

• Wheelchair accessible gravel paths with marked routes, steep in places • Pushchairs and baby carriers are welcome in all areas of the garden.

There some steep hills on the garden route • Dogs on short leads are welcome all year round • For full accessibility and access information see the website.

DIRECTIONS If cycling - Wiltshire Cycle Way www.sustrans.org.uk If using the bus - from Warminster and Shaftesbury, alight Zeals, 1¼ miles If using the train - Gillingham 6½ miles; Bruton 7 miles If driving - You arrive at Stourhead via the main road network, following brown signs off A303 or the B3092 from Frome. The main carpark postcode is BA12 6QD. THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 31

education

EDUCATION

GUIDE 2021 From Early Years to Sixth Form, the choices we make for our children's education are crucial and yet also sometimes overwhelming. Here are some of the best options around..

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 33

education Heywood offers limitless opportunities, from the academic and the arts to entrepreneurship and leadership challenges, in small class sizes of 14-16 but in healthy year groups of 28-32: small enough to nurture but big enough to challenge.

Specialist staff work with children as young as 2 years, and their objective is to find the unique strength in every child and help them to shine. As a stand-alone prep school, they are in a uniquely unbiased position to advise parents honestly about their choices at age 11. A Heywood parent says: “Heywood Prep is a wonderfully nurturing school with the child placed at the heart of everything they do. A varied and exciting curriculum full of opportunities and exciting activities” Heywood is holding an Open Door event on Friday 24 September. Make an enquiry on the website or call 01249 713379 to find out more.

• heywoodprep.com

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL

Heywood is a non-selective school for children aged 2-11

“Heywood Prep is a wonderfully nurturing school with the child placed at the heart of everything they do. A varied and exciting curriculum full of opportunities and exciting activities.” A Heywood parent

PREP & SENIOR SCHOOLS HEYWOOD PREP SCHOOL

Priory Street, Corsham, SN13 0AP Heywood Prep is a happy, caring, non-selective school for boys and girls aged 2-11, in which children discover a love of learning and the confidence to fulfil their potential.

34 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

College Road, Bath BA1 5SD (Prep School) Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5RG (Senior School) Kingswood Prep School is situated on a magnificent 100-acre site in Lansdown, Bath, a short distance from the Senior School. It embodies a bucolic atmosphere, with open fields and plenty of space for the children to explore. A family-

Located in the heart of Corsham, with 2 acres of beautiful gardens where children play, explore and learn.

At the very heart of Heywood’s ethos is learning tailored to every child, and this is built into the curriculum through Individualised Learning Sessions. In this way, children at every level are supported to maximise their learning and achieve their very best.

Kingswood is situated on a magnificent 100-acre site in Bath

education friendly day and boarding school, Kingswood balances academic rigour and real objectives for all pupils with superb pastoral care Rated ‘excellent’ in all areas of their latest Inspection Report.

The Senior School meanwhile has the highest aspirations for all pupils.

Within a community that promotes the importance of shared values, they encourage a real enthusiasm for learning and a spirit of enquiry.

Firmly based on Christian principles, Kingswood is a happy, vibrant and forward-looking school. Intellectual

achievement is highly valued, and the pursuit of excellence in other fields is central to the School's commitment to provide the very best all-round education.

STONAR SCHOOL

Cottles Park, Atworth SN12 8NT Established in 1895, Stonar is a leading day and boarding school from Nursery to Sixth Form in a charming countryside setting, and home to You can have a virtual tour online the UK's finest riding academy. The or come along to one of their school’s progressive curriculum upcoming open events. The Prep transcends the purely academic, School Open Morning is on 21 creating an enriching environment September, the Sixth Form Open in which pupils discover and develop Evening is on 23 September and the their individual talents - and gain a Senior School Open Morning is on deeper experience of the world.

25 September. If you are interested in attending, please register on the Stonar has an excellent track record event of your choice on the website. of academic success, typically in • kingswood.bath.sch.uk the top 5% nationwide for valueadded at both GCSE and A Level.

Stonar has an excellent track Pupils benefit from an 80 acre site, record of academic success excellent facilities and a hardworking and friendly environment. There is a freedom from negative social pressures and children feel free to be themselves, developing positive self-esteem and confidence.

St Margaret's is opening their new Bluebird Nursery to welcome 2 year olds

Individual tours are encouraged and can be booked by contacting the Admissions Office on 01225 701744 or emailing admissions@ stonarschool.com. The school will also be holding numerous Open Days during September and October. See the website for more information.

• stonarschool.com

ST MARGARET’S PREP SCHOOL

63 Curzon Street, Calne SN11 0DF St Margaret’s Prep in Calne is expanding its Bluebird Nursery to welcome 2-year-olds. From September 2021, following internal refurbishment and the development of a purpose-built Early Years outdoor courtyard, the school’s popular Kindergarten will become The Bluebird Nursery, providing a safe and stimulating environment for younger children to explore and develop.

36 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

education Headmaster, Luke Bromwich said “We have been aware that some families have needed to educate their children in different settings due to the fact we could only accept children from 3, but it has been our desire for some time to educate the whole family – now we can do that!

Bluebird Nursery offers a great head start to a child’s learning journey.

Our fledglings will enjoy Forest School, games and music, all taught by our experienced and caring Early Years staff.

“Research shows that play is one of the most important ways in which young children learn and gain essential knowledge and skills and this is at the core of a St Margaret’s education. Children love sensory play and the new courtyard will provide endless hours of fun and exploration.”

Find out more by registering for their next Open Morning on 14 October visit the website for details.

• stmargaretsprep.org.uk

Tutoring can help your child grow in confidence

TUITION KIP MCGRATH

45 Castle Street, Trowbridge BA14 8AY Kip McGrath provide professional tuition in English, maths and science to primary and secondary aged children. They aim to provide the best specialist facilities and 38 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Little Willows Day Nursery in Corsham cares for children from 12 weeks to 5 years

professional expertise to help children realise their potential in English, reading, writing, spelling, maths and science. Children can study at the centre or via their bespoke interactive online platform.

Whilst studying, students grow in confidence as they are provided with a programme tailored specifically for them, with any new or difficult concepts clearly and patiently

"The aim at Kumon is to help children of any age and ability to discover their full potential."

find out more call the Trowbridge office on 01225 777514 or email trowbridge@kipmcgrath.co.uk • kipmcgrath.co.uk/trowbridge

KUMON

4 Palmer Street, Frome BA11 1DS The aim at Kumon is to help children of any age and ability to discover their full potential. Established for over 60 years, the Kumon maths and English programmes enable students to develop the confidence and skills to tackle challenging work independently.

The Kumon Frome Study Centre, which is based in the heart of the explained. Kip McGrath’s tutors find St Catherine’s district of Frome, has that increased confidence can have a been running since 2007 under massive impact on a child's progress, the guidance of instructor Susan and this can affect all subjects.

Gatward. Over the last 14 years it has supported hundreds of children All tutors are fully qualified, DBS to develop the core study skills to checked teachers and they provide achieve beyond expectations. feedback on a regular basis so parents can see how their child is improving.

In September, the Frome centre is “We emphasise the positive aspects offering a free trial of the Kumon with every child so outright failure is Programme for all new students. To eliminated. Kip McGrath Education find out how Kumon study can help Centres provide an opportunity to your child excel, or to book a free repair self-esteem and confidence, in assessment, please contact Susan an atmosphere of encouragement Gatward on 07930 127919, or email where learning can be fun,” said frome@kumoncentre.co.uk • kumon.co.uk/frome Centre Director Matt Hughes. To

Qualified Teachers Personalised Learning Programmes At Kip McGrath, our focus is to help your child reach their full potential.

We make learning fun and engaging to improve results. You will receive progress reports and updates to track your child’s improvement.

TROWBRIDGE 01225 777514

45 Castle St, Trowbridge, BA14 8AY kipmcgrath.co.uk/trowbridge • trowbridge@kipmcgrath.co.uk

SPACES STILL AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER 2021

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

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

education

NURSERIES LITTLE WILLOWS

Stokes Rd, Corsham SN13 9AA Little Willows Day Nursery, based near the centre of Corsham, is owned by former Bath & England rugby player, Steve Ojomoh. The day nursery is open from 7.30am-6.30pm Monday-Friday, 51 weeks of the year and offers care for babies and children aged 12 weeks to 5 years. Little Willows has one main play room, with a large indoor sandpit, and sensory room, and an outdoor play area. The nursery has a dedicated on-site chef who freshly prepares all meals and snacks daily, using locally sourced produce.

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

If you would like any further information about the nursery, call 01249 701444 or email corsham@ littlewillowsdaynursery.co.uk. They also have a nursery in Bath.

• daynurseryinbath.co.uk

LONGSCROFT NURSERY SCHOOL

Trowle Common, Trowbridge BA14 9BL At Longscroft Nursery School they have been caring for children from 3 months to 5 years for 30 years.

Situated in a rural environment between Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon they have separate rooms for each age range - with a free flow garden attached to each. There is a huge amount of outdoor space for little ones to enjoy including an allotment, a sensory garden and a pet’s corner with rabbits to help care for.

Their on-site kitchen cooks fresh meals every day using locally bought ingredients, and they cater for dietary requirements. The nursery follows the themes and principles of the EYFS and incorporates learning in both the indoor and outdoor environments.

Children enjoy activities including yoga, messy play (especially in the mud kitchen!), gardening and story times as part of the daily routine and accept 2, 3 and 4 year old funding.

Please enquire at the office for more information on 01225 777698 or email office@longscroftnursery.co.uk.

• longscroftnursery.co.uk

2021 GRADUATION AT FAIRFIELD FARM COLLEGE

43 High Street, Dilton Marsh, Wiltshire BA13 4DL Students at Fairfield Farm College recently celebrated their graduation. With 25 students graduating, it was the largest graduation event in the college’s history. Students were able to enjoy a motivational presentation by Paralympic Swimmer, Liz Johnson.

Liz got up at 5am to Zoom in from Brazil, speaking to students about her experiences and challenges, and how she overcame many hurdles in her career.

Students took it in turns to enjoy their moment in the spotlight. Each student was invited to collect their certificates and a framed photo of their memories at the college.

Students had completed a range of programmes from 1 to 5 years and there were many laughs, but also tears from students and staff. Many students have already secured future plans as they transition to adulthood, with some remaining in the Trust progressing to the STEPS programme, preparing them to take the next step to independent or supported living. Other students have secured supported internships, courses at mainstream colleges, employment and work placements as well as moving to their long-term homes.

• ffc.ac.uk 25 students recently graduated from Fairfield Farm College

Longscroft's rural environment means it benefits from a huge amount of outdoor space

40 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

hobbies

BACK TO SCHOOL

FIONA TURNBULL from Lacock Photography discusses going 'back to school' this autumn by learning a new skill in digital photography.

D

espite having left school many moons ago, every September ushers in that back-to-school feeling, stirring some deep-seated impulse to purchase a sparkly new pencil case. And apparently, I'm not alone, a third of grown-ups experience a curious Pavlovian reaction to the change of the season, reporting a desire to buckle down at the office, invest in dapper new workwear, discover a hobby or pick up an old one. At Lacock Photography we say lean into that childhood conditioning and celebrate that first-day feeling by turning your hand to digital photography. Here are a few reasons why:

Photography is one of the best pastimes for long-term brain health

Shorter days result in the sun’s trajectory being much lower and so the time of golden light is significantly longer than in summer, meaning less pressure and more time to bag that AUTUMN PHOTOGRAPHS magic post-sunrise or pre-sunset shot.

ARE THE BEST

Ok, so this is debatable, but we think no other time of year rivals the colours and textures that autumn brings. Rich red and brown leaves are the season’s signature and elevate any woodland path or city street to a thing of beauty. Another great plus for taking up photography in September is the autumnal light.

GOOD FOR THE BRAIN For many of us, that back-to-school feeling comes with a renewed motivation for learning. Research has revealed the numerous benefits of adult learning, for example the improvement of memory, stress reduction and increased self-esteem.

Photography is regarded as a leisure activity with ‘high cognitive demand’, making it one of the best pastimes for long-term brain health.

shy away from learning environments in adulthood. At Lacock Photography, our aim is to give students the very best bits that education has to offer, encouraging self-expression, creativity, fun and community: the perfect cure for those back-to-school jitters!

Lacock Photography run their Beginner’s Photography Workshop several times a month. If you’re interested in taking up digital photography, check out their website for dates and more information.

• lacockphotography.com

FORGET BACK-TOSCHOOL JITTERS

Autumn is a great time for photography

42 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Although a lot of people associate the new school year with fresh starts and new beginnings, for others early September can unearth old academic anxieties and a few scholastic nightmares thrown in for good measure. Negative feelings about ones’ school years can, quite understandably, cause individuals to

Fiona runs beginner courses every month

...keep safe and well

fti

THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL! 01985 847031 • sofacoplus@yahoo.co.uk • sofaco.co.uk • 15 George St, Warminster, BA12 8QA

house & home Fabric and soft furnishing choices changes can make a huge difference to the feel of a room

"Soft furnishings are an ideal way to lift a room, whether taking on a new colour scheme, or adding some subtle changes to the existing look!"

44 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

house & home

SEASONAL CHANGES LARA WILLMORE from Axford Interiors has over 15 years in the Interior Design Industry, working in and around West Wilts for almost ten years, Here she discusses how we can make small changes in our homes as the seasons change...

W

ith autumn just around the corner, we begin to notice the evenings getting darker, the colours in nature beginning to show hints of changing and we know the weather will soon get cooler.

Many people begin to consider ways to make their home feel more cosy as they retreat indoors more often.

Soft furnishings are an ideal way to lift a room, whether it is as simple as replacing the cushions on the sofas to give a new feel and style to the room, or choosing new curtains or blinds; taking on a new colour scheme, or adding some subtle changes to the existing look! Curtains made with a good hidden thermal lining can make the room cosier and reduce any winter draughts.

When considering fabric choices for

curtains it is important to consider how heavy you want them to be, whether you want the curtains to sit against the window and how much light you want to block. During a consultation with a client we will discuss the options for fixings, positioning and will discuss any solutions to awkward windows. We also make suggestions for colour schemes, from paint to wallpaper as well as patterned, geometric and plain fabrics.

Sometimes it is the missing puzzle piece to pull a room together!

Our design consultancy service offers a free initial chat with a designer to work out how you can make the changes to suit your budget and tase. Often something as simple as changing a colour palette can really impact on how you use or feel in a room – not only making the space more practical but also making it a place you enjoy more.

When your home reflects you, you will want to go home to it.

If you have a project in mind, or a need a design solution in your home, give us a call on 07749 707056 or email interiors@axfordgroup.com to see how we can help. You can also keep an eye on our social media channels.

ti @axfordinteriors ti @axfordlandscapes • axfordgroup.com THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 45

house & home

GARDEN ROOMS

Best known for their stunning handmade kitchens and bathrooms, STEPHEN GRAVER is currently seeing a huge level of interest in garden rooms.

S

ince the pandemic Stephen Graver has seen a resurgence in the popularity of garden rooms for a number of uses. Flexible home working spaces, exercise areas, accommodation for visiting family members or just places to relax that bring us closer to the outside world, an extra building in the garden now features at the top of many clients' wish lists.

Based in the very pretty village of Steeple Ashton, Stephen Graver has seen how receptive clients are at using the space available to them in innovative and exciting ways once they start to work with his team of expert craftsmen in their awardwinning studio and showroom.

Stephen Graver’s trademark is exceptional quality design and delivery of outstanding projects.

46 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

A garden room can provide that perfect link between indoors and out

"From eco cabins to indulgent glass works of art, demand has soared with clients appreciating the value of being able to accommodate an extra space in their existing home" From handmade kitchens, bathrooms of distinction, awe-inspiring garden rooms that merge the inside and outside of your space, beautiful bespoke home offices to full home renovations. Every project is underpinned by outstanding craftsmanship from conception to completion and backed by exceptional customer service that has kept clients returning again and again for over 30 years.

The majority of Stephen Graver’s clients are from recommendation and a visit to their unique countryside studio makes it clear to see why.

Searches on Houzz for garden offices rose by 80% during lockdown and continue to be on an upward trajectory. This year’s disappointing summer temperatures following last

year’s lockdown heatwave means that any opportunity to bring the outdoors closer through gardens or rooftop spaces are high on the most-desired list for many. Pay them a visit to see how they can bring your projects to life.

• stephengraver.com

Photography by Adam Lynk

Adding extra features such as hot tubs, patio areas, firepits and outdoor kitchens has allowed us to appreciate our outdoor spaces as a true extension of our homes. Some clients have chosen to build it as a completely separate area to their normal living space where they can go wild with their decorating scheme.

Rooms can range from the opulent to the beautifully simple in their elements of wood and reclaimed cladding with sand, cement or crushed marble. From eco cabins to indulgent glass works of art, demand has soared with clients really appreciating the value of being able to accommodate an extra space in their existing home which can be a potential income stream or just more space to enjoy with family and friends.

Photography by Adam Lynk

Allsop Carpets & Flooring

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gardens

AUTUMN FLOWER POWER Head to THE NURSERY this autumn to ensure your garden is filled with blooms and prepared for a bumper spring too.

N

ow is a great time to head over to The Nursery garden centre in Hilperton.

“High summer may have been and gone but with our milder autumn conditions your garden can still look fantastic right up until the first frosts, which can sometimes not happen until the new year.” Says owner Matthew Webb. “Many prairie-style plants like rudbeckias, echinaceas and heleniums come into their prime in September, and their dramatic flowers add instant impact to any border. As well as looking fantastic, these later flowering perennials are bee-friendly, providing an important late season food source for insects. Another great option is the wonderful salvia ‘Amistad’. Though slightly on the tender side (it needs protection from very hard frosts) their beautiful deep purple flowers - on strong upright stems - perform brilliantly right through autumn. Customers have proudly told me they were still in flower on Christmas Day! "Grasses are also looking their best now as their lush green foliage gives way to striking seedheads.

These look particularly effective planted alongside the laterflowering perennials I mentioned and continue to look good right through the winter (don’t chop them back until later winter/early spring and enjoy how they look covered in wintry frosts). They also act as important hiding places for overwintering insects like ladybirds."

The warm autumn ground is ideal for planting trees. The Nursery has

50 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’

“Many prairie-style plants like rudbeckias, echinaceas and heleniums come into their prime in September, and their dramatic flowers add instant impact to any border.” one of the largest selections in the area. “Some people are nervous about planting trees, particularly if they have small gardens and don’t want something that gets too big.' continues Matthew. "Our knowledgeable staff can advise on the right tree for different spaces.

Even the smallest garden can have a tree! Acers in particular offer superb autumn colour and stay pretty small, whilst our native rowan has dark green leaves which turn yellow and orange in autumn, and it’s large clusters of red berries are a great winter food source for birds.”

Autumn is also classic bulb planting season. From daffodils and tulips to alliums, pop in to the centre for a huge selection of top quality bulbs that will ensure your garden is filled

with colourful blooms even in the depths of winter. They also have a huge range of winter bedding plants to keep you going too.

• the-nursery.co.uk

Acers offer superb autumn colour

The selection of trees is one of the best around

Wild Ivy

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Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary Saving stray & unwanted dogs since 1958

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

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BEAUTIFUL PLANTS ALL GROWN ON BRITISH NURSERIES

• Bedding & Annuals • Perennials • Veg & Herbs • Trees & Shrubs • Climbers • Roses

PLUS: Pots & Planters • Compost • Fertilisers & Chemicals • Bulbs & Seeds • Tools • Sundries OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Monday - Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm

the-nursery.co.uk

Marsh Road, Hilperton, Wiltshire BA14 7PL Tel 01225 571331

gardens

GARDEN JOBS

Here are some of the top jobs to be getting on with in the garden this month...

7. Start to reduce frequency of houseplant watering This is to prepare the plant for a period of dormancy over winter 8. Clean out greenhouses and coldframes It may not be the most glamorous of tasks but cleaning out greenhouses/coldframes greatly improves the environment for plants.

By removing algae, moss and grime it lets in more light and helps control pests and diseases.

Pick autumn raspberries this month

1. Divide Perennials Dividing perennials regularly will ensure healthy, vigorous plants that will continue to perform year after year.

It also offers the opportunity to multiply your plants.

2. Pick autumn raspberries Raspberries are tasty and easy to grow. If you grow both summer and autumn-fruiting varieties a few plants will reward you with plenty of fruit from mid-summer until mid-autumn.

If you end up with a glut, raspberries also freeze well, and make wonderful jams, sauces and cooked desserts.

pressure. All potatoes should be gathered by mid-October to avoid weather damage.

5. Net ponds Before leaf fall gets underway net your pond and remove fallen leaves and debris to avoid decomposing vegetation building up in the pond.

6. Continue to water your pots/ containers and new plants. Collect what you can rather than use mains (tap) water. It's better for plants, including houseplants, and it's free!

3. Harvest Seeds Growing plants from seed is an opportunity to increase the number of plants in your garden for free. Take a paper bag and capture the seeds of hardy annuals and perennials.

4. Harvest main crop potatoes Provided the crop is healthy, leave main crop plants until early to autumn to bulk up (the tubers are prone to slug damage). For storing, lift the potatoes when the tops die back and the skin resists gentle 52

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Start harvesting main crop potatoes this month

9. Cover leafy vegetable crops with bird-proof netting As leafy veggies become larger, and when other food sources are dwindling, birds and particularly pigeons can quickly decimate your crop.

10. Plant spring flowering crops One of the gardening's best and easiest jobs is planting bulbs ready for spring. They are one of the easiest and most rewarding garden plants to grow and give the promise of colour to come next year. Why not attempt a bulb lasagne? You layer up springflowering bulbs to create a display that will lasts for months.

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health & wellbeing

KONDITION STUDIO

Westbury has a brand new fitness studio, coffee and deli, Kondition. We caught up with manager CALLUM DILIGENT to find out more...

WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER GYMS?

Kondition is a fitness studio, coffee bar and deli all in one

We really wanted to create a luxury space to come and train and enjoy some great food and coffee. There are plenty of ‘boutique’ gyms in the cities and we thought why not bring a small piece of that to the westcountry?

We are more than just a place to exercise, the studio strives to be a genuine community as well as a source of inspiration for each and every member. Kondition provides exceptional instruction in an exciting modern space combined with an amazing deli all in one great space.

KONDITION HAS A COFFEE BAR AND DELI ON SITE TOO, WHAT TREATS CAN WE FIND THERE? We offer delicious healthy breakfasts and lunches as well as nutritional meal prep for those that want all the hard work done for them, all freshly prepared each day. Our menu is The deli is open to members and non members

KONDITION STUDIO OPENED EARLIER THIS YEAR, CAN YOU TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT IT? Kondition is a luxury fitness studio located in Westbury at Palamino Place. We offer a daily schedule of unique and varied fitness classes, with dedicated and elite coaching.

We specialise in spin, yoga and

pilates, HIIT and strength and conditioning classes and even offer kids sessions over the holidays!

Everyone is welcome to refuel in our beautiful Deli, we have a great selection of locally sourced coffees and smoothies and freshly prepared meals and snacks, specially created for your health and fitness needs, by our inhouse chef Paul.

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 55

health & wellbeing

Kondition is a unique modern space that offers a diverse range of classes

"We are more than just a place to exercise, the studio strives to be a genuine community as well as a source of inspiration for each and every member. " constantly changing to keep things fresh and we offer great plant-based alternatives to cater for different nutritional needs. Our trained baristas are also on hand with an excellent selection of coffees, iced coffees and smoothies whether you want to sit in or grab one on the go.

WHAT ARE YOUR MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS? All memberships include unlimited classes as well as full access to our community app, rewards system and 20% off everything in the deli. We also offer a Local & Blue Light Card discount. We want to keep things really simple with no contracts so members can come and go as they please - it's all done conveniently through our app or instore.

56 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Alternatively, for those who just fancy a quick spin or yoga session we also offer single class passes.

HIIT and BoxFit. Set in a high-end boutique environment and with small class sizes our coaches are on hand to help you if you are just starting out on your fitness journey or working towards a specific goal.

We even introduced kids sessions over the summer and they proved a massive hit!

HOW HAVE YOU BEEN CAN ANYONE COME RECEIVED BY THE DOWN AND TRY IT? LOCALS SO FAR? Really well, we have had some amazing feedback. More importantly though our members keep coming back and they are also recommending us to their friends and family.

WHO DO YOU THINK WOULD BENEFIT FROM YOUR CLASSES?

Absolutely, we have classes throughout the day, our full timetable is available on our app if you search for ‘Kondition Studio’ in your app store. Bookings can be also be made in store. Everyone’s first class is free; we’re confident you'll be back for more.

The deli is open to members and non members for eat in or grab and go between 7am and 4pm Everyone! The Kondition studio offers a range of unique classes with Monday to Friday and 7am -1pm on elite coaching, including a variety of Saturdays. our own fitness classes, spin, pilates, • konditionstudio.co.uk yoga, strength and conditioning,

CHURCH STREET OSTEOPATHY & COMPLEMENTARY HEALTH PRACTICE

Nestled in the heart of Bradford on Avon, our practice has served the local community and far beyond for over 25 years. The Centre is home to 7 very experienced Osteopaths.

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ACUPUNCTURE COUNSELLING CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY

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We are open: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 6.30pm (Appointments available 9am - 6pm) Saturdays 8.30am - 4pm (Appointments available 9am - 4pm)

Church Street Practice 15a Church Street Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LN Telephone 01225 868282 • www.churchstreetpractice.co.uk • enquiries@churchstreetpractice.co.uk

konditionstudio.co.uk

Westbury’s state-of-the art fitness studio, coffee bar & deli ENJOY 20% OFF MEMBERSHIPS & AT THE DELI WHEN YOU MENTION THE WEST WILTS MAGAZINE*

*Until 30.09.21. Ts & Cs apply

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// ISSUE 108

West Wilts The

FREE

MAGAZINE

BBQ S

Getaways IDEAS BAGGING A& TIPS FOR BARGAIN SUMMER BREAK

A NEW OUTDOOR KITCHEN FROM STEPHEN GRAVER

Peter Wilkinson

M.Inst.Ch.P

Time for Tea GREAT LUNCHES & AFTERNOON TEAS

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legal & financial

CONSTRUCTIVE TRUSTS, DECONSTRUCTED

T

om Britten, an Associate in the Private Client team at Wansbroughs Solicitors considers the way forward when a relationship breaks down and an agreement needs to be reached regarding the future of the family home.

The courts do not have the same powers to distribute a cohabiting couple’s property as they have to distribute a married couple’s or civil partners’ property. Instead, the courts have to rely on the concept of constructive trusts.

In the absence of a Declaration of Trust (setting out the parties’ intentions), the court may impose

a constructive trust where it would be unfair to allow one party to deny that another party has an interest in Tom Britten

the property. In reaching a decision, the court will infer the cohabitees’ intention from other circumstances; such as financial and non-financial contributions to the former family home. As a last resort, the court can impose a constructive trust based on what it considers to be fair.

Recording the ownership of the family home in a Declaration of Trust could avoid expensive and uncertain litigation in the unfortunate event of relationship breakdown. If you would like help preparing a Declaration of Trust, call us on 01380 733300 or email wealth@wansbroughs.com.

• wansbroughs.com

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 59

bath rugby

BATH PREPARE FOR THE 2021/22 TO KICK OFF Bath Rugby have been busy preparing for the start of the new season, which kicks off later this month.

T

he players and staff have been hard at work at Farleigh House to prepare for an eagerly anticipated 2021/22 campaign in front of packed out stadiums.

This pre-season comes after a longer, well-deserved break for all at the club following last term’s threeweek turnaround.

Director of Rugby Stuart Hooper said: “The off-season has definitely given a decent amount of time to reflect on what happened last year; also, to switch off and spend time with the family, then reenergise ready to come back into obviously what is going to be a massive campaign.

“As ever through pre-season, there are layers you’re working on so there’s always a physical conditioning layer. There’s a rugby style how we want to play the game; that’s obviously being embedded from day one and then there’s the building of the team – you know the connections that getting everyone together outside of rugby and building a strong, coherent team on and off the field to go and take on one of the toughest challenges in World Rugby.”

Whilst Zach Mercer and Rhys Priestland are among the highest profile departees, the most prominent arrival has been flyhalf Danny Cipriani, who came to

60 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

the club at the back end of last season and has played a full part in pre-season with his new team.

Cipriani said, “There’s a huge amount of talent within the squad to work with. There are people with one-on-one talent who can make a lot of runs and beat people and we have a lot of ball handling forwards, which is a great sign too. It means we can get the ball through their hands and out to the backs quickly which I think will be key this season.”

for the opening fixture of the new season on Saturday 18 September (ko5pm) whilst their first home game is the following Saturday (25 September) against Newcastle Falcons, kick off is at 3pm. A tricky first few games continues with Bristol Bears away on 1 October followed by Saracens returning to The Rec for the first time in two years on 17 October.

• bathrugby.com

Before the new campaign begins Bath have a couple of friendlies lined up against Munster and Cardiff.

Bath travel up to Sale Sharks

Danny Cipriani

2021/2022 FIXTURES For ticket information and to buy tickets go to the website.

10 Sept 18 Sept 25 Sept 1 Oct 17 Oct

19:15 17:00 15:00 19:45 15:00

A A H A H

Cardiff Rugby Sale Sharks Newcastle Falcons Bristol Bears Saracens

Friendly GP GP TV GP TV GP

health & wellbeing

THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING VITALITY DAY SPA

V

itality Day Spa is excited to share that they are now a multi-award-winning spa, having just won the Muddy Stilettos Best Day Spa in Wiltshire! The team isn’t resting on its laurels though, there are treatments to be done!

natural products occurring in global landscapes, the team has created numerous treatments to transport you to remote wonders from crisp mountains and Nordic shores to tropical rainforests and ancient zen gardens.

Some of the most popular treatments available at the moment are those in the Wanderlust Collection. The current challenge of travelling to some of the world’s most extraordinary locations inspired the team to bring some of these adventures to life and create an opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the delights of the world right here in Bradford-On-Avon.

Vitality Day Spa are proud to be working with relevant charities to raise awareness and funds that focus on appreciating and preserving these inspirational environments and cultures. Please feel free to ask the team for more information about their chosen charities!

and body massage to revitalise and stimulate your entire physical and mental wellbeing. This is a limitededition treatment and only available until 30 November. To book go online or call 01225 309356.

• vitalitydayspa.co.uk

Influenced by and utilising the

The Wanderlust collection will transport you to exotic climes

The Zen Garden is the newest addition to this collection.

Incorporating hot stones, this treatment combines both facial

V I TA LI T Y DAY S PA A sanctuary of relaxation in Bradford On Avon

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NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

01225 309356 • vitalitydayspa.co.uk • book@vitalitydayspa.co.uk • 8 Market St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LH THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 61

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.

CAN YOU GUESS THE CORRECT DEFINITION? 1. MUCKER a) a pigsty b) a miserly person c) a madman

2. LILL

3. JUNK a) a hunk of bread and cheese b) a small cavity in a rock c) a badly manufactured tiddlywink, flat on both sides

62 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

a) the youngest of a litter of pigs b) to seduce c) a tree bare of leaves or twigs

PUB NAMES The names of British pubs are not all that they seem – certainly if you’re looking at the picture on the sign hanging outside them.

The Cat and Fiddle didn’t derive from a music-loving publican who kept cats, but is a corruption of Katherine le Fidèle, which refers to the faithfulness of Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife.

The Hope and Anchor comes from the Biblical text ‘We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the

soul, a hope’; The Cross Keys is the symbol of St Peter, the gatekeeper of heaven; and The Royal Oak commemorates the tree that hid Charles II from Oliver Cromwell’s forces after his defeat at Worcester.

The most popular pub name in the UK is The Red Lion. The name is thought to originate from the time of James I and VI of Scotland who came to the English throne in 1603. James ordered that the heraldic red lion of Scotland be displayed on all buildings of importance - including pubs! The top 10 pub names in the UK are: Red Lion, Crown, Royal Oak, White Hart, Plough, Railway, Swan, White Horse, Kings Arms and Ship.

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

a) a motion between walking and trotting b) to pant as a dog c) the last and least willing sheep to be sheared

4. RUMPLE

puzzles

TEA BREAK TEASERS LOCAL SCHOOLS WORDSEARCH

What/who is missing from the grid?

ALOERIC BITHAM BROOK CHRIST CHURCH CLARENDON FITZMAURICE

GROVE HOLBROOK JOHN OF GAUNT MATRAVERS NEWTOWN

ST AUGUSTINES ST JOHNS ST LAURENCE ST PATRICKS WALWAYNE COURT

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Email your answers to these trivia questions to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk by 23.09.2021 to be in with a chance of winning a £20 iTunes voucher. Good luck!

Q1: Who was John of Gaunt’s father?

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LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: MAGNUM Quiz answers 1: The scientific name for brain freeze.

2: New Zealand 3: Dippin’ Dots 4: France 5: Korea.

64 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Q3: In what year did St.Augustine’s open at its current site?

Q4: In 1907 one of our local schools was called The Westbury Laverton Institute School, which one?

Q5: What was the name of Clarendon Academy up until August 1974?

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last word

I

A RECIPE FOR DISASTER

love to cook. My enthusiasm used to be almost exclusively for the preparation of savoury dishes, puddings were never my thing. I don’t have much of a sweet tooth to be honest. OK that’s patently untrue, I just wasn’t very comfortable with the precision

experimenting with a new recipe (obviously for just my wife and I, which kid has ever been keen to sample an unfamiliar food at the dinner table?!)

One of my foodie indulgences is a subscription to a food magazine.

“My confidence grew (after a lot of trial and mainly error) and I even started attempting baking cakes, biscuits and puddings. Who knew that if you followed the recipe they almost always worked?!”

frankly a recipe feeding six people can’t be affected too greatly by tiny amounts of anything can it?! I often wonder if their addition is simply to differentiate the recipe enough from the one the writer cribbed it from or am I being a bit cynical?

At the same time as I complain about it I’m fully aware of the fact that if they didn’t mess with the recipes they would struggle for content each month. There’s only so many times someone wants to read about Vicky sponges and spag bol and cottage pie isn’t there?

And where would that leave me if I wanted a good session of recipe reading?

required so stuck to savoury as it seemed to offer a little more latitude to my occasional heavy hand.

Lockdown was actually great for me as I joined in the banana bread and sourdough clubs to pass the time.

My confidence grew (after a lot of trial and mainly error) and I even started attempting baking cakes, biscuits and puddings. Who knew that if you followed the recipe they almost always worked?! (And, if they don’t you can just have another go another day!)

I look forward to its arrival each month, excitedly ripping off the (compostable) wrapper like a kid at Christmas when it pops through the letterbox. Then, cup of coffee in hand, I pore over each page, making Phil Rockliffe mental notes of which recipes I’d like to try and which different members of the family might enjoy.

I actually find the whole process of reading recipes rather soothing and can happily while away an hour reading them from old cookbooks.

Is that weird?!

As such, I’m rather pleased to admit that in our house the usual male/ female roles are often inverted.

You’re far more likely to find me slaving over the stove preparing dinner whilst my wife is out mowing the lawn or fixing something in the garage than the other way around and that suits me just fine! I enjoy it, and am as happy creating something easy, comfortable and familiar to feed us all as I am

One thing that gets me though is why they have to mess with stuff.

How many of us really want to try THE BEST EVER Spaghetti Bolognese recipe, or THE MOST INDULGENT Victoria sponge. Surely most of just want a simple recipe that just works don’t we? I can’t help but get annoyed by the addition of random ‘tablespoons of red wine vinegar’, ‘dashes of fish sauce’ and ‘splashes of freshly squeezed lemon juice’ when

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