The West Wilts Magazine - December 2021

DECEMBER 2021 // ISSUE 141

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West Wilts The

+ STEPHEN GRAVER CHEVERELL CHRISTMAS RECIPES WINTER WILDLIFE & MUCH MORE

MAGAZINE

THINK SMALL AND BUY LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS WITH OUR BUMPER GIFT GUIDE

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS QUIZ STUDIO BACCHUS

FUN FESTIVE TRIVIA FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

A NEW WAY OF WORKING IN BOA

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

FOR A BEAUTIFUL HOME VISIT OUR NEW HOLT SHOWROOM

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire BA14 6PX Tel: 01225 308541 info@formosakbb.co.uk www.formosakbb.co.uk

contents 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: Christmas Wish List

December 2021 // issue 141

W

hilst almost everyone will be feeling the pinch at the moment I urge you all to ‘think small’ when doing your Christmas shopping this year. Instead of putting another few quid in the back pocket of Mr Bezos, if we all make an effort to shop more locally, especially at Christmas, the effect will be transformative. Our Christmas Wish List is bursting with fantastic local retailers offering fantastic gifts at reasonable prices - it all begins on p36.

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As well as our extensive wish list, our Christmas quiz also makes a welcome return. Starting on p19, we’ve 50 questions of festive trivia to tackle!

Our Food & Drink section has some great new venues to try, delicious seasonal recipes to make and an interview with the chef at The Wheelwrights Arms (p34).

Elsewhere, Stephen Graver takes a look at upcoming interior trends (p54) and we take a closer look at the craftsmanship available at Cheverell (p56). We also have some advice on how best to keep your local wildlife visitors healthy and well fed this winter (p58).

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For the final time in 2021 please turn the page to enjoy a great read! Merry Christmas one and all!

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

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in this issue...

LOCAL NEWS Dent’s Factory Shop What’s on in December Holburne Museum events Join Team Dotty FOOD & DRINK Noah’s Pantry The Raven

4 6 14 14

26 26

Eat the Seasons 30 Christmas recipes 31 Meet the chef at the Wheelwrights Arms 34 FEATURES The Very Merry Christmas Quiz Christmas Wish List

19 36

HOME & GARDEN Stephen Graver Cheverell Feed the Birds

54 56 58

LEGAL & BUSINESS Wansbroughs Studio Bacchus

65 66

BATH RUGBY Orlando Bailey

68

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES That’s interesting...

70 Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku 72 COMMENT The Last Word

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christmas

DENTS FACTORY SHOP Dents' Factory Shop has great gifts for all the family this Christmas...

Dents has been crafting leather gloves since 1777

D

ents, the iconic Warminster glove manufacturer has been designing and crafting fine leather gloves and accessories for the world’s leading stores since the year 1777.

Today, its fine gloves and accessories can be bought online or in person at its dedicated Factory Shop on Furnax Lane in Warminster.

Celebrate and shop their stylish collections of head turning Christmas gifts for loved ones. Gorgeous gloves, handbags, hats, belts and more, all at factory shop prices. You will also find an ever changing selection of gifts and pieces for your home including beautiful stationery, cards and candles to please family and friends.

The shop is open Monday to Saturday from 9am until 5pm, there is free parking available and the shop is wheelchair accessible and dog friendly too.

• dentsgloves.com

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events

listings local

DECEMBER 2021

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL

Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 melkshamassemblyhall.com THROUGH THE RAIN 2 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 With an incredible live band and stunning vocalists, this production celebrates the timeless songs and melodies of Barry Manilow.

ROCK FOR HEROES 3 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 Raising money for Help for Heroes, the show features a full band and outstanding vocalists, belting out the biggest rock hits.

TRAIN TO SKAVILLE 11 December, 8pm Tickets: £10 A ska and reggae Christmas extravaganza to warm your Christmas cockles brought to you by Train to Skaville and DJ Smileee.

THE LAST LETTER FROM YOUR LOVER (Cert 12A) 8 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £7.50 (Concs £6) Felicity Jones and Shailene Woodley star in this romantic detective story adapted from JoJo Moyes bestseller.

thrilling old school spy adventure.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Cert PG) 11 December, 3pm Tickets: £7.50 (Concs £6) In a daring twist of format, characters are portrayed by dancers and voiced by an eclectic cast of the world’s most recognisable actors.

THE SNOW BEAST BY SCRATCHWORKS THEATRE 18 – 24 December, 7.30pm Tickets: Adults £9, Child £7, Family £28 With nothing but her mother’s old research book, her owl assistant Maude and her sense of adventure, Faina sets off on an action-packed exploration to find The Snow Beast!

Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 poundarts.org.uk THE DANISH COLLECTOR 7 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) The Danish Collector: Delacroix to

THE COURIER (Cert 12A) 14 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £7.50 (Concs £6) Benedict Cumberbatch stars in this

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

The Courier (12A), Pound Arts

NICK HARPER 9 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £14 (Concs £12) For over two decades, Nick Harper has been dazzling audiences with his heady mix of virtuosity, boyish charm, showmanship and sheer bravado.

YULETIDE FEAST WITH LOUISE JORDAN 11 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £25 Folk musician Louise Jordan will fill your evening with songs and stories while you are served a 3-course meal from the café.

POUND ARTS CENTRE

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Gauguin takes you on a journey to discover some of the best examples of 19th-century French art.

THE FURROW COLLECTIVE 16 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £15 (Concs £13) A special festive programme to celebrate the time of year.

TOWN HALL ARTS

Market Street, Trowbridge BA14 8EQ Tel: 01225 774306 trowbridgetownhall.com JOHN KIRKPATRICK ‘CAROLLING & CRUMPETS’ 10 December, 8pm Tickets: £10 This show is a heart-warming look at the timeless rituals found in the

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

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary Saving stray & unwanted dogs since 1958

Merry Christmas Everyone!

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 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Fresh from the Forest RODE DEPOT OPEN DAILY

9am until 5.30pm

Delivery service available see website for details

RODE, Nr FROME BA11 6PE

Wide range of sizes & varieties Traditional Norway Spruce, Nordmann Fir, & Fraser Fir

PLUS Mistletoe, Holly, Wreaths, Logs

Free Reindeer Dust!

(Office Hours: 10:00-12:30 & 14:00-16:30)

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

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

tel 07494 015440 | Find us on

o-christmas.co.uk

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events folklore and folk music of England at Midwinter.

KATHERINE PRIDDY 11 December, 8pm Tickets: £10 Over the past three years, Priddy has been building a growing following, captivating audiences around the UK with her haunting vocals, rich harmonies, distinctive finger picking guitar style and enchanting songs.

MIRACLE ON 34 SEYMOUR STREET 20 – 30 December, 7pm Tickets: £10 Taking inspiration from stories shared

by Trowbridge residents this is a funny, original play with songs that will leave you yearning for Christmases past that may or may not have existed!

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE

Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 wiltshiremusic.org.uk ZONE CLUB (Album Launch) 11 December, 7.30pm Tickets: from £5 Celebrating Creativity in Lockdown: a rocking evening of original songs and endless imagination PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA 18 December, 7.30pm Tickets: from £13.50 The Pasadena Roof Orchestra have

been recreating the sounds of a golden era of music from the 1920s and 1930s to widespread acclaim for over 50 years.

GBH BIG BAND 19 December, 7.30pm Tickets: from £10 GBH Big Band’s legendary Christmas concert is back with a classy selection of big band fare.

NEELD ARTS CENTRE

High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER Tel: 01249 446699 neeld.co.uk

Tickets: from £10.08 A brand new, festive, musical, interactive adventure. It’s a family show most suitable for 2-7 year olds, where every child will receive a specially wrapped present from Santa.

FROME MEMORIAL THEATRE Christchurch Street West, Frome, BA11 1EB Tel: 01373 462795 fmt.website

THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SHOW 4 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £26 That’ll Be The Day’s Rock & Roll Christmas show combines the best pop Christmas classics and traditional Christmas songs with hilarious comedy routines.

THE EVERLY BROTHERS AND FRIENDS AT CHRISTMAS 12 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £19.69 With live acoustic guitars and flawless harmonies it’s a truly impressive outing for all, accompanied by special guest star tributes.

DICK WHITTINGTON 28 December – 3 January, various times SANTA’S GROOVE Tickets: from £12 17 December, 7pm The well-known fairytale of Dick Tickets: from £5 Whittington and his feline friend Have your elf a merry little Christmas! Tommy who go to London in search Dress up in your favourite festive of fame and fortune. Join the cast outfit and groove the night away for fun on the open seas, slapstick in to some of your favourite Christmas the galley and the fight against an tunes, featuring Will Blake and his oversized rat!! live band.

SANTA’S BEST EVER CHRISTMAS 19 December, 11.30am & 2pm

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

CHRISTMAS GIFT MARKET 4 & 18 December, 9am FREE This will be a good place to find a unique gift for someone, a Christmas market for Gifts, Crafts and Produce.

Nick Harper, Pound Arts

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MAGPIE MARKET 5 December, 10am FREE A market for vintage and contemporary gifts, jewellery and homemade crafts and produce.

For full listings go to each venue’s website

Trowbridge Museum Christmas season A whole new second floor & fantastic events programme to explore!

image © Roy McDine

trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

events THE LONDON AFRICAN GOSPEL CHOIR 9 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £29 A collective of African singers, musicians and dancers who have performed with everyone who’s anyone, including Annie Lennox and John Legend.

CATS IN SPACE 10 December, 8pm Tickets: £22 Be transported back to the heady days of 70’s classic rock with loud guitars, huge drums, layers of multilayered vocal harmonies, grandiose keyboards and unforgettable anthemic sing-along choruses.

THE UNRAVELLING WILBURYS 16 December, 8pm Tickets: £17 After extensively touring their highly successful Beatles project, the band turn their skills to replicating the ‘supergroup’ that was The Traveling Wilburys.

MUNGO’S HIFI, THE NEXTMEN & GORILLA TACTICS 17 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £18 It’s the annual Gorilla Tactics Christmas party!! This is fast becoming the Frome festive knees-up for all the family. Reggae, hip hop & party flavours for the masses.

The London African Gospel Choir, Cheese & Grain

CARA DILLON 19 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £25 Cara Dillon with her annual Christmas show ‘Upon A Winter’s Night’.

MADDY PRIOR AND THE CARNIVAL BAND 20 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £27.50 Maddy Prior joins up once again with the Carnival Band during the Festive Season for their unique celebratory show “Carols & Capers”.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 31 December, 8pm Tickets: £17.50 SOS are a fantastic 6 piece ABBA revival band whose live show is the perfect way to celebrate NYE.

Church, Bradford on Avon during the Christmas Tree Festival. Entry by programme from choir members, Ex Libris in The Shambles and on the door. Email dizzyway@hotmail.co.uk for details.

ATHENAEUM SINGERS CAROL CONCERT 14 December, 7.30pm FREE Everyone is welcome to attend a carol concert at Christ Church, Warminster, on the evening of Tuesday 14 December in support of Wiltshire Air Ambulance. This is a chance to participate in the singing of favourite carols and hear choral items presented

by The Athenaeum Singers as we join to celebrate Christmas.

THE THREE HORSESHOES

OTHERS THE RELAYZ 10 December, 9pm FREE The Boathouse at Bradford on Avon Marina is hosting a great live party band playing music to dance to for fun. www.boathouse.pub CAROL CONCERTS 10 December, 6pm & 8pm Tickets: £10, children & students free Bradford Choral Society are giving two, one hour, carol concerts in Holy Trinity

Frome Rd, Bradford on Avon Tel: 01225 865876 All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm SEVERANCE 3 December THE LONE SHARKS 4 December THE BACK WOOD REDEEMERS 5 December THE SOUL STRUTTERS 10 December T.B.C. 11 December THE RUZZ GUITAR ELECTRIC BLUES REVUE 12 December THE HAMMERVILLES 17 December THE BOOT HILL ALL-STARS 18 December T.B.C. 19 December FRENZY 22 December

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

GORILLA TACTICS’ XMAS PARTY AT THE CHEESE & GRAIN!

MUNGOS HIFI, THE NEXTMEN & GORILLA TACTICS WITH SEVERAL SUCCESSFUL SHOWS JUST BEEN, WE CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ROUND..

THE ANNUAL GORILLA TACTICS CHRISTMAS PARTY...

HAVING BEEN HOSTED FOR THE LAST 4 YEARS THIS IS FAST BECOMING THE FROME FESTIVE KNEES-UP FOR ALL THE FAMILY. REGGAE, HIPHOP, PARTY FLAVOURS FOR THE MASSES. GLOBAL REGGAE HEAVYWEIGHTS MUNGO’S HIFI MASSIVELY IN DEMAND LONDON PARTY STARTERS THE NEXTMEN MUNGO’S HI FI ARE A SOUNDSYSTEM AND MUSIC PRODUCTION COLLECTIVE BASED IN GLASGOW, SCOTLAND. THEY PRODUCE AND PLAY MUSIC WHICH BLENDS JAMAICAN INFLUENCE WITH CONTEMPORARY BASS MUSIC, RESULTING IN A UNIQUE TAKE ON SKA, REGGAE, DANCEHALL AND DUBSTEP THAT HAS MADE THEM FIRM FAVOURITES IN THE UNDERGROUND MUSIC SCENE.

local news

THE CHALK HILLS PROJECT

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tudents at Fairfield Farm College have been working with the Wiltshire Museum on a new 4-week project, focusing on the work of WW2 landscape artist Eric Ravilious. His work captured many beautiful paintings of the chalk downloads of Wiltshire and Sussex.

The Chalk Hills project is for people with special educational needs, who enjoy art and being creative.

The project focuses on the ‘Dummy Book’ which Ravilious produced before he died. This was a mock-up of a planned book which he was set to create after the war, and the students have been tasked with re-creating the book, including words, images and photos.

were able to develop their skills in watercolour painting and experience the exhibition for the first time. Over the coming weeks students from the college will be enjoying various trips to places that inspired Ravilious’ most famous paintings, such as the Westbury White Horse. There are also

further workshops planned, which will be held by a local artist at both the museum and college. Students really enjoyed working on the project and showcasing their pieces to the public.

• ffc.ac.uk

Students working on the project

The first workshop was held at the Wiltshire Museum, where students

WINTER AT HOPE NATURE CENTRE

H

ope Nature Centre is gearing up for a busy winter period, with a variety of Christmas events, as well as their café being a popular destination for those looking to warm up in the winter months.

Tickets for their ‘A Magical Christmas at Hope Nature Centre’ have nearly sold out, but there are still a few select dates with availability if you’re looking for something exciting to do with little ones this festive season. Included within the ticket is There are still a few spots left at Hope Nature Centre this Christmas

a ride on the Snowflake Express land train, a visit to Santa’s grotto (with a present for Children) and full access to the Animal Park and play areas during the day of the visit.

For those looking for a stop for breakfast or lunch, Hope Nature Centre’s café is the perfect place.

With a wide range of freshly prepared food choices, you’ll find something tasty to tempt your tastebuds. There are also plenty of sweet treats and cakes to enjoy over a freshly prepared hot drink.

You can find Hope Nature Centre in Southwick Country Park, just outside Trowbridge, and it’s open 7 days per week. To find out more information head to the website.

• hopenaturecentre.org.uk

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local news

COMING UP AT HOLBURNE MUSEUM

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s ever, Holburne Museum in Bath has a wide range of displays and exhibitions to enjoy over Christmas and new year.

Here are some of the highlights…

(b.1953, New Delhi) that explore the legacy of the Pre-Raphaelites and their influence on contemporary art in the context of LGBTQI+ rights in India.

ROSSETTI’S PORTRAITS HORNET, HAILSTONE, Until 9 January 2022 CRAB EYE, AERODROME ETC A unique show devoted to one of the giants of Victorian art and the first ever exhibition dedicated to Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s portraits.

The exhibition explores the artist’s intimate relationship with his muses and their influence on his depiction of beauty.

SUNIL GUPTA: THE NEW PRE-RAPHAELITES Until 19 January 2022 Ten powerful, direct and beautiful photographs by artist Sunil Gupta

Until 3 January 2022 This ceramic display of the work of Aaron Angell & Steven Claydon is drawn from a firing at the Oxford University Kiln Project, an anthropological investigation into an ancient pottery kiln, which originally dates from 5th-century Japan.

singers to the world of early music.

You are warmly invited to an Elizabethan evening of songs and carols in the company of this special ensemble and their directors. Music

by Byrd, Tallis, Dowland, et al.

• holburne.org Rossetti’s The Blue Bower

NOWELL NOWELL A TUDOR CHRISTMAS Saturday 4 December, 7pm | £18 Dowland Youth Works was formed in 2018 to introduce gifted young

JOIN TEAM DOTTY FOR THE BATH HALF

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since 2002. Over the years they’ve had over 2,300 amazing runners taking part, raising over £750,000 for the charity in the process.

Dorothy House has been privileged to have charity places in the Bath Half

Silver Bond places are now on sale and places are available on a first come, first served basis so make sure you secure your place today!

Organisers ask for a payment of £37 (+ booking fee) for the place and a

he Bath Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 13 March 2022 and is the largest single day fundraising event in the South West! Anyone up for the challenge next year is invited to join Team Dotty and help raise vital funds for Dorothy House.

Join Team Dotty and run the Bath Half in 2022!

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guarantee you will be able to raise £200 or more for Dorothy House.

To buy your Bath Half Marathon 2021 Dorothy House Silver Bond ticket please head to the website. If you already have your own independent place, please email events@ dorothyhouse-hospice.org.uk.

• dorothyhouse.org.uk

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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local news

THE SNOW BEAST COMES TO CORSHAM

C

oming to Pound Arts Centre this Christmas, ‘The Snow Beast’ is a new collaboration between critically acclaimed Scratchworks Theatre Company and award-winning writer Jack Dean. With inventive storytelling, puppetry and live music, ‘The Snow Beast’ has all the hallmarks of a classic Christmas show. But if that wasn’t enough, this family friendly adventure (ages 6+) brings live science experiments to the stage as we follow a female scientist, Faina, who sets out on a quest to find the mystical Snow Beast.

Desperate to pass her final exams, Faina sets off on a perilous expedition to find the legendary Snow Beast. With help from her owl assistant Maude, they encounter extraordinary spectacles and mountainous obstacles as they battle through the wild, wintry wilderness in search of the truth. Can you help

In the snowy town of Seldomberg test tubes bubble, experiments explode and new inventions whirr for the Science Academy’s Final Exams. But Faina’s got a problem… her project has unexpectedly burst into flames!

Faina and Maude overcome the scientific puzzles along the way? ‘ ‘The Snow Beast’ will run at the Pound Arts Centre from 18-24 December with a mixture of matinees and evening shows.

• poundarts.org.uk

The Snow Beast is a fun family show for ages 6+

SPRING/SUMMER LAUNCH FOR WMC

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njoy world-class performances live and online at Wiltshire Music Centre. The vibrant Bradford-on-Avon music venue has launched another jam-packed season featuring a diverse array of musical styles and performances by Qanun player Maya Youssef

leading artists across classical, folk, jazz and world music.

stars Gwilym Simcock and Thomas Gould.

There will be virtuosic performances by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, City of London Sinfonia and the European Union Chamber Orchestra, and intimate recitals by Voces8, the Marmen Quartet and pianist Cordelia Williams.

Renowned qanun player Maya Youssef presents ‘Finding Home’, a two-day festival celebrating Syrian Culture in March, and there’ll be an Indian dance workshop and show by the sensational SEVENS.

The iconic Bradford Roots Music Festival returns in January with a trio of feel-good gigs and there’s more top folk performances by Breabach, RANT and Midnight Skyracer (feat.

Wiltshire-based Carrivick sisters!).

Enjoy spectacular 1920s and 30s jazz from Alex Mendham and his Orchestra, plus more brilliant jazz performances by Empirical, Hot Club of Cowtown and returning 16

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The Centre’s young artist lunchtime concert series continues, as does its programme of Family events, Screenings and inspiring creative learning activities. So, whether you’re looking for a good night out, or in(!), WMC’s new Spring/Summer season of concerts and livestream events programme has plenty to offer.

Booking opens Monday 6 December; find out more and book online.

• wiltshiremusic.org.uk

GREAT CHALFIELD

Christmas fayre

saturday 18 december, 10am-3pm In the Great Hall & The Courtyards There will be a variety of Christmas food stalls and presents to buy around the open fire and large Christmas tree with carol singing in the minstrels gallery. Food & coffee available.

Requested donations - Adults £5, Children Free 01225 782239 | www.greatchalfield.co.uk near Melksham,Wiltshire, SN12 8NH

Melksham Milk Station a self-service vending machine farm shop!

+ Farm fresh milk in traditional glass bottles + Local organic free range eggs + Local potatoes + Butter + Cheese + Local honey + Milkshake syrups + Marshfield ice creams + Christmas trees from late November! + Independent Florist next door

Open 7.30am till 7.30pm 7 days a week

follow us on facebook @melkshammilk snarltonfarm.co.uk | Snarlton Farm, Melksham SN12 7QP

christmas

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS QUIZ Everyone likes a bit of trivia at Christmastime - here are 50 QUESTIONS to get you in the festive spirit and the whole family can have a go too.

ROUND 1

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA

6. The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, but on which day does the Winter Solstice fall on this year?

1. Since 1966, a 13-metre-tall Yule Goat has been built in which 7. How many hours of daylight country for advent? are there on the day of the winter solstice?

2. A beast-like demon creature roams city streets frightening kids and punishing the bad ones 8. In which country is a pickle ornament hidden in their in Austria - but what is its name?

Christmas trees?

3. In the 13 days leading up to 9. Which country Christmas, The Yule Lads enjoys fried caterpillars visit children across one during the festive country leaving season? gifts. Which country are the Yule Lads from?

10. In which festive dessert is a silver coin traditionally hidden?

ROUND 2

CHRISTMAS NUMBER ONES 1. What was Christmas number one in 2020?

2. In which year did Rage Against the Machine beat Joe

4. To this day, many people in one country still hide their brooms in the safest place in the house to stop them from being stolen by witches.

Which country hides brooms on Christmas Eve? 5. Every Christmas Eve, one city’s residents head to church in the early morning on roller skates where does this happen?

Mariah Carey

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christmas McElderry to the Christmas number one slot?

3. Which band had three consecutive Christmas No 1 singles in the 1990s?

4. Mr Blobby was Christmas number 1 in 1993. Which song did he top the charts with?

5. In which year was Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' Christmas No 1?

6. What beat Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' to Christmas number one in 1994?

7. Which group had a Christmas No 1 with 'There's No One Quite Like Grandma' in 1980?

8. The original Band Aid single came out in 1984 but in which year was Band Aid II the Christmas No 1?

9. In 1992 Whitney Houston's 'I Will Always Love You' was top of the charts. In which film did it feature?

10. How many X-Factor winners have had Christmas number ones?

It's a Wonderful Life

ROUND 3

CHRISTMAS FILMS 1. In Home Alone, where are the McCallisters going on holiday when they leave Kevin behind?

2. In the movie Love Actually, which character sang Christmas Is All Around?

5. Which actress plays six-yearold Susan Walker in the 1994 Miracle on 34th Street?

6. In Elf, Buddy reveals there are four main food groups for an elf what are they?

7. What is the name of the young Who girl who befriends The Grinch?

8. In what year was It's a 3. Which Christmas Wonderful Life released? movie sees Tom 9. Who plays Father Christmas in Hanks play six of Bad Santa? the characters?

4. In which film did Bing Crosby first sing the song ‘White Christmas’?

10. What does Mark Darcy have on his Christmas jumper in Bridget Jones’ Diary?

ROUND 4 CHRISTMAS LITERATURE

1. Who said 'Merry Christmas, one and all!' in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol?

Home Alone

20 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

2. In Raymond Briggs’ classic tale The Snowman, what did the Snowman and the boy do on their evening adventure?

christmas Harry Potter

3. In the novels by Terry Pratchett, who is the Discworld equivalent of Father Christmas?

4. Which March sister opens LM Alcott's Little Women by grumbling "Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents?"

5. In Harry Potter & The Philsopher's Stone, what do The Dursleys give Harry for Christmas?

6. In what classic novel does the protagonist set sail for a sea voyage on a cold Christmas day?

7. In which children's classic is it 'always winter but never Christmas'?

8. In what year was Clement C Moore's poem 'The Night Before Christmas' first published?

5. If you are on the naughty list, what does Santa give you?

9. The Father Christmas Letters is written and illustrated by which famous novelist?

10. Which crime writer wrote the collection of short stories called "The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding"?

6. What meat is traditionally eaten on Christmas Day?

ROUND 5

7. What does Santa travel in to deliver his presents?

FOR THE KIDS!

8. What date is Christmas Day?

1. How many reindeer does Santa Claus have? Bonus points for every reindeer you name correctly!

9. What is Santa Claus also known as?

2. Where does Santa live?

10. In the Christmas story, how many wise men are there?

3. Who are Santa’s famous helpers?

4. Which vegetable is traditionally used for a snowman’s nose?

ANSWERS Christmas Trivia: 1. Sweden, 2. Krampus, 3. Iceland, 4. Norway, 5. Caracas, Venezuela, 6. Monday 21 December, 7. 7 hours 49 minutes and 42 seconds, 8. Germany, 9. South Africa, 10. Christmas Pudding.

Christmas No.1’s: 1. 2009, 2. Don't Stop Me Eating by Ladbaby, 3. The Spice Girls, 4. Mr Blobby, 5. Never, 6.

East 17 - Stay Another Day, 7. St Winifred's School Choir, 8. 1989, 9. The Bodyguard, 10. Seven.

Christmas Films: 1. Paris, France, 2. Billy Mack, played by Bill Nighy, 3. Polar Express - He was Father, Conductor, Hero Boy, Hobo, Scrooge and Santa Claus, 4. Holiday Inn, 5. Mara Wilson, 6. Candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup, 7. Cindy Lou Who, 8. 1946, 9. Billy Bob Thornton, 10. A reindeer.

Christmas Literature: 1. Tiny Tim, 2. They went walking in the air, 3. The Hogfather, 4. Jo, 5. a 50pence piece, 6.

Moby Dick, 7. CS Lewis' The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, 8. 1923, 9. JRR Tolkien, 10. Agatha Christie For The Kids: 1. Nine - Rudolph, Prancer, Dancer, Donner, Blitzen, Dasher, Vixen, Comet and Cupid, 2. The North Pole, 3. Elves, 4. Carrot, 5. Coal, 6. Turkey, 7. A sleigh, 8. December 25th, 9. St Nicholas or Father Christmas, 10. Three.

22

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Award Winning, Family Run Farm Shop Established for over 30 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open 7 days a week

Premium Christmas Trees on sale from Saturday 27th November

HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME CHRISTMAS MEAT ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN ONLINE & IN STORE

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

The Red Lion

W O O L V E R T O N Homecooked food served all day at this family friendly country pub. You can also enjoy great tasting Wadworth beers in our spacious dining room or large garden.

Now taking bookings for Christmas. 2 Courses £19, 3 Courses £25 Available from 1st – 22nd Dec, pre-booking essential 01373 830350 | www.redlionwoolverton.co.uk | Bath Road, Woolverton, Somerset BA2 7QS

The Brewery Inn SEEND CLEEVE

YOUR HOSTS, LYN & ANDY HOBBS, WELCOME YOU TO THE NEWLY RE-OPENED RISING SUN.

A traditional English pub, The Rising Sun aims to be the best local around.

The menu offers delicious, classic British dishes using local and fresh ingredients, complemented by a great range of well-kept traditional ales, local gins and fine wines.

A proper village pub with log fires, real ales, lagers and a wide range of ciders, including our famous ‘wacky cider’.

We serve traditional homecooked food which can be enjoyed inside, in our large garden or in our fully heated outdoor pods!

We’re dog friendly too!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

• BEER GARDEN • HOMEMADE FOOD SERVED DAILY • LOCAL REAL ALES & CIDERS • GLUTEN FREE MENU • STEAK DEAL • TRADITIONAL SUNDAY ROAST • TAKEAWAYS AVAILABLE • LARGE CAR PARK 61 Woodmarsh, North Bradley, Trowbridge BA14 0SB 01225 776545 therisingsun-northbradley.co.uk

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS 2 Courses £17.95 3 Courses £23.95

f

01380 828463 | Seend Cleeve, Wiltshire. SN12 6PX

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Christmas menu served Wednesday - Sunday from 1st – 24th December. Pre-booking Essential.

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Smoked salmon & Roast turkey Traditional Christmas pudding dill pâté Braised beef Homemade chocolate brownie Creamy tomato soup Homemade nut roast Homemade coffee Prawn cocktail crème brûlée Smoked haddock, salmon & cod in a creamy dill sauce Homemade sticky toffee pudding Homemade lentil loaf

2 courses £18.95 or 3 courses £24.95

SMALLER PORTIONS: 2 courses £16.95 or 3 courses £19.95 We also have a heated outdoor area that can seat up to 16 people.

Please call us on 01225 782581 or book online at theoldhamtree.co.uk

THE

WESTBROOK

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2 courses £25.99 per person • 3 courses £29.99 per person

STARTERS

Christingle Pie (v)

Roasted Bromham Parsnip, Carrot & Cumin Soup (vg available)

Christmas Wellington (vg) Fig & Cranberry Nut Roast (vg)

Oak Smoked Salmon Mousse with King Prawns

***All served with a selection of locally grown seasonal vegetables, roast & new potatoes, unless stated ***

Smooth Duck Parfait with toasted ciabatta and homemade fruit chutney Smoked Haddock baked with leeks, cream & white wine Creamy Garlic & Tarragon Mushrooms (vg) Button mushrooms with fresh garlic & baked with a creamy tarragon sauce Baked Camembert with toasted ciabatta with cranberry, orange & port sauce (v)

DESSERTS

West Country Christmas Pudding (vg available) Christmas Ice Cream Sundae Baked Christmas Cheesecake (vg available) Warm Chocolate Fudge Cake (vg available) Apple Crumble (vg available) Festive Crème Brûlée Cheese and Biscuits

MAINS

Traditional Roast Turkey Breast 28 Day Aged Scotch Sirloin Steak Steak & Chestnut Pie Fillet of Sea Bream Loch Duart Salmon Fillet Rack of Lamb

(SEE WEBSITE FOR TAKEAWAY, CHRISTMAS DAY & CHILDREN’S MENUS)

CALL FOR AVAILABILITY & TO BOOK! Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2EE

tel 01380 850418

www.westbrookbromham.co.uk

food news

NOAH’S PANTRY OPENS AT BOA MARINA

N

oah’s Pantry is an artisan grocery and coffee shop that opened in October in Bradford on Avon Marina. This new independent family business is the brainchild of Jacqui and Steve Hargreaves, two retired teachers who have recently relocated from Bedfordshire to a narrowboat on the Kennet & Avon canal. With a passion for good food and supporting

local businesses, Noah’s Pantry is geared towards making the most of the region’s rich bounty, with no products travelling more than 30 miles to the store. As well as teas, coffees and tasty breakfasts and lunches, they stock a range of home essentials that care about the planet, freshly made treats, homemade breads and more. Steve says, “The best part about shopping with us

Jacqui and Steve Hargreaves opened Noah’s Pantry in October

is you’ll know exactly where the products in your basket have come from; we aim to put the planet and its people first. This means we source with both miles and seasons in mind. Our produce will reflect what’s around us, ensuring we offer the real taste of Wiltshire and Somerset.”

In the weeks since they opened the welcome they have received has been superb. Jacqui added, “We are thrilled to have had a huge amount of support from the local community and reviews have been fantastic.

Our aim is to be known for our great quality coffee, food and local produce so come and find us and give us a try!”

Noah’s Pantry is open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10am to 4pm.

• noahspantry.co.uk

NEW LANDLORDS AT THE RAVEN

W

ith new landlords and a new chef on board, The Raven is back and better than ever! This much-loved country pub is the heart of the village of Poulshot, strongly supported by the locals and recommended by

those who appreciate traditional hospitality, good beer and great food. Alongside real ale from the nearby Wadworth brewery, The Raven is also proud to serve fresh produce from the local farm shop, including Poulshot Lodge Farm’s own grass-fed beef.

The Raven is at the heart of Poulshot village

Throughout December, a special Christmas menu will be available, which promises plenty of traditional festive fare as well as other seasonal surprises. One of the highlights is a hay-smoked haunch of venison with goose fat potatoes and vanilla cauliflower purée.

Then there’s the figleaf crème brûlée with 26 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

mulled wine meringues. Alternatively you could go for a guinea fowl and pheasant terrine with pork bonbon and roasted chestnuts followed by honey roasted duck leg with black garlic creamed potatoes. It’s all completely delicious!

Make sure you allow some time to digest the full extent of this very merry menu when you get there (and try to find some room to try the homemade petit fours before you leave!).

Whether you choose two dishes for £25 or three for £30, there is plenty of Christmas cheer on tap, just call the pub on 01380 828271 or email theraveninnpoulshot@gmail.com to book your celebrations.

• ravenpoulshot.co.uk

Artisan Grocery & Coffee Shop at Bradford On Avon Marina

Come and find us for great quality coffee, tasty food and local produce - all of which comes from no further than 30 miles from the Pantry.

Bradford on Avon Marina, Trowbridge Rd, Bradford on Avon BA15 1UD 07919 910862 // noahspantry.co.uk // contact@noahspantry.co.uk //

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food news

CHRISTMAS AT BEECHFIELD HOUSE

B

ookings are still available for Christmas at Beechfield House Hotel, an awardwinning hotel and restaurant in Beanacre on the outskirts of Melksham. The hotel has four relaxed, stylish and comfortable dining rooms to choose from, recently refurbished with deep tones for a more intimate, cosy feel. With the addition of beautiful Christmas decorations; it’s a wonderful setting for any festive get-together.

The festive menu has been carefully created by Head Chef Joe Donson, using local suppliers and homegrown vegetables from their kitchen garden. Priced at £24.95 for 2 courses and £29.95 for 3 courses (including tea/coffee) starters include smoked Scottish salmon and goat’s cheese & chestnut tart. Alongside traditional roast local turkey with

duck fat roast potatoes, main course options include braised beef brisket with a garlic potato fondant, and the range of tempting finales includes traditional Christmas pudding, star anise crème brûlée and a chocolate and orange tart with rum & raisin ice cream. Delicious!

As a hotel, it is of course open for Christmas Day too, with a special five course menu available for £125pp.

(Children under 10, £70).

Alternatively, if you are having a party you might want to use one of the private dining rooms. They can seat up to 20 guests in the Music Room, 12 in the Library and 10 in the Card Room – perfect for an extra special get together.

You can book online, call 01225 703700 or email reservations@ beechfieldhouse.com • beechfieldhouse.com

The dining rooms at Beechfield House have all been renovated

THE SWAN’S CHRISTMAS PLANS

T

he Swan Hotel in the centre of Bradford on Avon is offering a delicious Christmas menu throughout December that’s full of festive favourites - booking is essential! Alternatively, their Alpine Bar is a great venue for a more informal get together. It has fun atmosphere, indoor and outdoor space, mulled wine, hot chocolate, special cocktails and fun food all in a unique alpine setting.

year for everyone and particularly with the disappointment of Christmas last year we felt it was important to give our wonderfully hardworking team members an opportunity to celebrate Christmas this year, so we have decided to close on Christmas Day.” The hotel will still accommodate guests and serve them breakfast on Christmas morning as their guests over the festive period are usually visiting friends and relatives. On Boxing Day the hotel will open as normal.

This year the hotel has decided to close on Christmas Day to give all their staff a chance to celebrate Christmas with their families. They have also decided to shut briefly from James continues, “The closure in 3 to 7 January to give staff a break early January will not only give the following a busy festive season! team members a further break but it will also allow the hotel to undertake Owner James Sullivan-Tailyour says, some maintenance projects to keep “It has been a massively challenging everything up to the high standards 28 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

guests have come to expect. Much of what we are doing may not seem immediately obvious but it is essential maintenance work that keeps everything up to scratch.”

• theswanbradford.co.uk The Swan will be offering a festive menu throughout December

Enjoy a fabulous Sunday lunch Served every Sunday 12noon - 2pm

Our Sunday lunch menu is carefully prepared by our Head Chef Joe Donson, using local suppliers and homegrown vegetables from our kitchen garden.

Private Dining also available | Booking recommended

Now also taking Christmas Bookings

Beanacre, Nr Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 7PU | 01225 703700 | reception@beechfieldhouse.co.uk | beechfieldhouse.co.uk

1 Church Street Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LN

01225 868686

theswanbradford.co.uk

theswanbradford @stayswan swanbradford

*****ALPINE BAR NOW OPEN*****

Mulled wine, hot chocolate, espresso martinis and more….

It’s a great venue for a more informal get together.

AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD (prepared by our Thai Chefs) Available Monday to Saturday Lunch & Dinner

Thai Chilli Restaurant Open 12 noon – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm (Thai Takeaway and local non-contact delivery service also available)

PUB CLASSICS MENU (available all day)

Monday to Saturday Open 12 noon – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm Our pub also offers a great selection of real ales, lagers, ciders, wines & soft drinks.

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...

W

ith Christmas not far off sprouts are top of the menu this month with parsnips and red cabbage coming a close second and third. I expect you would all put them in a different order though!

The sprout is a brassica but it is anyone’s guess when someone mutated it from the original cabbage. They may have been grown in Belgium as early as 1200, but the first recorded description of doesn’t come until 1587. Wherever they came from, sprouts now grow fantastically well in the fields of Wiltshire - we source ours from Sherston

30 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Sprouts near Malmesbury. As well as tasting great (honestly!) Brussels sprouts are a good source of fibre, folic acid, manganese, and vitamins A, C, and K too. Nutritious and delicious!

No Christmas would be complete without the perfect roast potatoes.

As I have said many times before the best variety is Maris Piper. Ours are grown in Corsham especially for Lovejoys, they are the best! And for a little indulgence why not cook them in goose fat?

As always email me with any questions on storage of vegetables, fruits etc, or what to do on your allotment (which I am sure is very tidy ready for the winter!).

“Wherever they came from, sprouts now grow fantastically well in the fields of Wiltshire.”

Otherwise Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!

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

recipes

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

This month FRAN STEVENS, aka The Food Wife, has some delicious festive recipes for before and after the big day!

6 cloves, ground ½ nutmeg, freshly grated Unwaxed lemon, zest and juice 2 tbsp rum or amaretto Method Place a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over a medium heat. Add the cider and sugar, and once the sugar is dissolved add the apple.

FAT-FREE BRAMLEY APPLE & VINTAGE CIDER MINCEMEAT Makes approx 2-2.5L

Inspired by the recipe my mother uses for her mincemeat, here is a fruit packed mincemeat, which contains no suet and so is fat-free, which I’m sure then makes it healthy…

✃

This is quite light in colour and wonderfully citrus-y from the lemon.

My batch is destined for mince pies in the coming weeks but I also intend to make a mincemeat crumble and some of my mince pie and custard

buttercream cupcakes - I’ve included the recipe for those on the next page!

Ingredients 500ml (vintage) cider 450g soft light brown sugar 2kg Bramley apples, peeled, cored and cut into rough small dice 1kg mixed dried fruit (sultanas, raisins, currants, mixed peel etc.)

1½ heaped tsp mixed spice 1½ heaped tsp ground cinnamon

Add the dried fruit, spices and lemon to the mixture, and once it is simmering, half cover with a lid and cook down (about an hour) until the apples have broken down into a satisfying mush (I chose to leave the odd piece of apple but if you don’t want this to be visible then continue to cook until all the apple is mushed).

Make sure you stir it every so often.

Check the sweetness and then allow to cool, before stirring in the rum/ amaretto. Finally spoon into your sterilised jars and seal.

I make these into lighter mince pies by layering four squares of filo pastry in a muffin tin, each layer brushed with a little melted butter. Then a dessert spoon of the mincemeat in each one, baked for 12-15 minutes at 180°C fan until crisp and lightly browned.

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 31

recipes

Method Cream the butter and sugar then slowly add the eggs and milk as you continue to beat them together. As you beat the mixture, add the flour a spoonful at a time until you have a smooth batter, and finish with a pinch of salt.

Mince 'Pie' Cupcakes with Custard Buttercream Makes 12 I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen, and here is my creation; a reimagining of the classic mince pie and custard.

If you’ve made the mincemeat recipe I have given you and are wondering what to do with it this is something a little different to try. Alternatively shop bought mincemeat is fine to use too.

Fold through the mincemeat then divide the mixture between 12 large cupcake cases set on a baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C fan for 20-22 minutes until golden and risen and they spring back to the touch.

Remove from the oven and leave on the baking tray for a couple of minutes and then transfer the cases to a wire rack to fully cool.

Once fully cool, make the buttercream by beating together all the ingredients until you have a smooth, pale yellow buttercream.

The quantity of buttercream allows for a thin layer to be spread over each Pipe or spread the buttercream over the cakes and add any extra cake. Alternatively you could pipe a decorations you desire. decorative splodge (technical term) on the top of each one. But if you want a full, piped covering on your cupcakes you will need to double the quantities.

Serves 4 We will be enjoying these when family come to visit over Christmas, so hopefully they will go down well with their festive twist. Merry Christmas!

Moroccan-inspired Turkey Tu rkey or Chicken Soup

Ingredients For the cakes: 115g softened butter 125g caster sugar 2 free range eggs 125ml milk 225g self-raising flour Pinch of salt 32

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

I LOVE this soup. It’s a warming bowl which makes use of your stock and any leftover breast meat from your roast. After Christmas it’s perfect for any turkey still going but the spoils from a roast chicken are just as good at any time of year.

Make this in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, be careful not to burn the spices, and with no need to purée the soup, it’ll be ready in half an hour!

Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 clove of garlic, crushed 1 heaped tsp ground cinnamon 1 heaped tsp ground cumin 1 heaped tsp ras al hanout ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 1 tbsp tomato purée 1 tin chopped tomatoes 1L chicken stock 1 tin butter beans or chickpeas, drained 150g cooked turkey/chicken breast, chopped or shredded 2 tsp cornflour, slackened in a little cold water 6 dried apricots, finely chopped (alternatively a small handful of sultanas) 1 tbsp date or pomegranate molasses (or use ½ tbsp honey) Salt & pepper Method Sweat the onion in the oil over a medium heat until soft. Add the garlic and stir to stop it from catching. Then add the purée and spices and stir for 30 seconds.

Add the stock and chopped tomatoes, along with the drained butter beans or chickpeas. Allow to cook on a gentle simmer for 15 minutes then add the shredded meat and chopped apricots and stir in the molasses and slackened cornflour to thicken slightly. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve.

• thefoodwife.co.uk

✃

300g mincemeat For the buttercream: 125g icing sugar, sifted 4 heaped tsp custard powder, sifted 125g softened butter 1 tsp vanilla extract

✃

THE

Farmhouse

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

THE BELL

AT S TA N D E R W I C K

INN

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

OUR PICTURESQUE FAMILY PUB IS SITUATED IN THE HEART OF THE MENDIPS.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING! 2 COURSES £20.50 | 3 COURSES £25.50 See our full menu online!

We offer a traditional yet varied menu, including a hugely popular Sunday Carvery, and a selection of cask condition Badger Beers.

OPEN Tues-Sat: 12noon-3pm & 5.30pm-10pm, Sun: 12noon-5pm

tel 01373 830413 | thebell-standerwick.co.uk

A warm welcome awaits you, your family & your dog at

THE WILTSHIRE YEOMAN A beautiful pub in the heart of Broadmead, Trowbridge.

Serving local ales, delicious home cooked breakfasts, traditional Sunday lunches & afternoon teas.

Why not try our popular two-course lunch from £12pp.

For our latest events incl live bands and our weekly quiz please see our Facebook page or website.

Tel 01225 765370

Chilmark Road, Trowbridge, BA14 9DD

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food & drink

MEET THE CHEF

ADRIAN DUMITRU, head chef at The Wheelwrights Arms in Monkton Combe near Bath, talks about his first job making pizzas, eating sticky toffee puddings and about learning to cook in the best professional kitchens...

What was your first job in catering?

I started working in a kitchen in my hometown in a kind of Italian restaurant making pastas and pizzas.

Your favourite kitchen gadget?

It has to be the Rational Oven for sure.

It is a fantastic bit of kit, and really helps a busy chef do amazing things.

Where do you source your produce?

We have some great suppliers. For meat and poultry we used Tunley Farm Butchers, they are a high-quality supplier of incredible meat products and are less than 5 miles from our pub. We also use Walter Rose and Lovejoys; they provide us with a wide range of quality ingredients as we need them.

What is your guilty pleasure?

A really good sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream - and don’t forget to add loads of toffee sauce!

What's your favourite dish on the current menu?

They are all really good in their own way but my personal favourite is our Tandoori cod served with a curry puree, cauliflower steak, lime pickle, dehydrated grapes and lobster sauce.

What advice would you give someone who wanted to be a chef?

I'd say to go and work in Michelin star restaurants for at least a year. This provides the opportunity to learn to cook to the highest standards in a professional kitchen, to listen to your superiors and do the job properly. It is hard work - but if you are happy to push yourself, the payback is incredible.

To book a table at The Wheelwrights Arms call 01225 722287.

Adrian Dumitru

"For meat & poultry we used Tunley Farm Butchers, they are a high-quality supplier of incredible meat products and are less than 5 miles from our pub."

What is the most memorable event you have cooked for?

• wheelwrightsarmsbath.com I was a part of the chefs' team who served at a private event organised by The new menu has won high praise from customers old and new the actor Nicolas Cage.

Which local pubs and restaurants do you like visiting?

I enjoy both Framptons and Hall & Woodhouse in Bath. Both are excellent.

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

I don’t get the chance very often but when I do it has to be a BBQ with tomahawk beef or perhaps lobster cooked over coals.

What is your favourite treat?

My favourite treat is a burger from Five Guys. There is something very good about their burgers, despite the fact they are a chain.

34 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Our Country Inn & Village Pub is a 10-minute drive from the centre of Bath or a pleasant stroll or bike ride along the K&A canal.

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We are surrounded by the Midford Valley, with lovely walks on our doorstep.

It’s a cosy village hideaway where you can enjoy great tasting food next to a roaring log fire.

BOOKINGS STILL AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS VIEW OUR MENUS ONLINE! Food Served: Mon to Fri, 8-10am, 12 - 3pm & 5 - 9pm, Sat 8am - 9pm, Sun 8am - 5pm (open for drinks until 10pm)

Church Lane, Monkton Combe, Nr Bath BA2 7HB 01225 722287 | wheelwrightsarmsbath.com

gift guide

GET BEHIND THE WHEEL

Drive-Tech Gift Vouchers, from £40 Drive-Tech Ltd • drivetechltd.co.uk

RED RED WINE

Whitehall Vineyard 2019 Pinot Noir, £19.99 Whitehall Garden Centre whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

TRY TO THINK SMALL THIS CHRISTMAS AND SUPPORT SOME OF THESE GREAT LOCAL RETAILERS!!

COLOUR ME HAPPY

Bradford on Avon Colouring Book, £10 The Granary • thegranaryboa.co.uk

LITTLE CHEF

Large White Kitchen With Accessories, £129.99 Molly & Friends mollyandfriends.co.uk

36 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

CLOCK WATCHING

Walnut DAB+ Radio, £43.99 Davies of Westbury daviesofwestbury.co.uk

gift guide

BACK TO SCHOOL

The Cooking School Gift Certificates, £various The Cooking School thecookingschool.com

THINK SMALL!

GIN GENIE

Award-winning Gin & Rum Gift Boxes, £34 Still Sisters • friarydrinks.co.uk

PIECE OF THE PUZZLE

1000-piece Jigsaw Puzzles, £12.99 Trowbridge Garden Centre trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

rest up

Wooden Reading Rest, £31.50 Strawberry Blue strawberrybluehome.co.uk

cider drinkers

Festive Gift Packs Of Local Still & Sparkling Craft Ciders, from £10 Bromham Cider Farm • shedcider.com

TO A TEA

Sparkle Tealight Holder, £8 About The House aboutthehouseshop.com

SHEPHERD'S DELIGHT Red Sky At Night Book, £12.99 The Granary • thegranaryboa.co.uk

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 37

Christmas

Our Christmas Department is NOW OPEN!!!

at 288 Frome Rd, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 0DT www.trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk Tel 01225

763927

Christmas Trees, Gifts, Lights, Children’s Toys, Decorations, Wreaths, Garlands & much much more!

Also home to The Bay Tree Café, Garden Affairs, Room to Groom, The Nail Lounge, Premium Tubs, Paul’s Double Glazing Repairs, Hair by Angela, The Foot Clinic & Kalahari Kitchen

CHRISTMAS TREES, WREATHS & MISTLETOE ON SALE NOW!

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE HERE

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

f thenurseryhilperton

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

gift guide

MIND YOUR BEESWAX Plum Tree Cottage Beeswax Candles, £2.50 to £5 Made in Bradford on Avon madeinbradfordonavon.co.uk

BEARING DOWN

SPA DAYS

Gift Vouchers & Gift Sets available, £various Vitality Day Spa • vitalitydayspa.co.uk

Rosewood Bear Gleneagle Studios, £25.50 SL Corden • slcorden.com

THINK SMALL! BABY ON THE GO

Wooden Baby Walker, £36.99 Molly & Friends mollyandfriends.co.uk

vegan friendly

Handmade Vegan Soy Candles, £15 About The House aboutthehouseshop.com

SWEET TOOTH

Personalised Sweet Jars, Small £5 Medium £9 Little Sugarush fb.com/LittleSugarush

40 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

gift guide

PHOTO SHOP

Photography Gift Voucher, £various Lacock Photography lacockphotography.com

SLIPPER AWAY

Lazydogz Slippers Bessie Pink, £39 Footloose • Find them on Facebook

TRAVELLING COMPANION

Games On The Go! Collection Of Card Games, £2.99 Trowbridge Garden Centre trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

ON THE MIc

Vibes Bluetooth Karaoke Machine, £95 Davies of Westbury daviesofwestbury.co.uk

FIND YOUR ROOTS

Root Veg Print, (frame not included) £8.99 The Granary thegranaryboa.co.uk

LEATHER GOODS

Leather Handbag £42.95 Bonbon Chic bonbonchicshop.co.uk

MAP OF BRITAIN British Isles 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle, £15.95

By The Way fb.com/bythewayshop

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 41

interiors

House

ABOUT THE

GIFTS, ladies wear & accessories

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BEAUTIFUL INTERIOR ACCESSORIES & GIFT BOUTIQUE FULL INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTATION SERVICE AVAILABLE 4 CHINNS COURT, WARMINSTER BA12 9AN TEL 01985 218882 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK

OPEN MON - SAT 9.30am - 5pm SUN 11am - 4pm 14 High Street, Warminster BA12 9AE • 01985 219526 info@bonbonchic.co.uk • www.bonbonchicshop.co.uk 9 Catherine Hill, Frome BA11 1BY • 01373 464412

GREAT GIFT IDEAS!

1981-2021 CELEBRATING

40

YEARS IN BUSINESS

A family run business situated in the heart of Westbury

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

An emporium of gifts for every occasion

FREE DELIVERY TO WESTBURY & SURROUNDS

Christmas Shop Now Open!

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

6A The Shambles, Bradford on AVon

01225 920290 | strawberrybluehome.co.uk

24 Edward Street, Westbury, BA13 3BD

Tel 01373 822431

www.daviesofwestbury.co.uk

S.L. Corden & Sons We are a traditional hardware store with a modern twist. Come to us for...

footloose LADIES SHOES

We stock a wide range of quality ladies shoes, boots, slippers & accessories

WONDERFUL GIFT IDEAS Lamb Yard, Bradford on Avon

01225 571474 • Household Items • Sugarcraft • Gifts • Ironmongery • Tools • Paint • DIY • Electrical • Key Cutting • Gardening • Camping Equipment

THE CHRISTMAS SHOP IS NOW OPEN! 4 High Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 9AE 01985 212115 | slcorden.com | Find us on

f

Cornhylle TINY CRAFT SHOP SELLING CARDS, HOMEWARES, BAGS, LAMPSHADES, & MORE HANDMADE BY LOCAL CRAFTSPEOPLE

fi 27 HIGH STREET, WARMINSTER BA12 9AG BROMHAM CIDER FARM At our cider apple orchard in Bromham we make and sell traditionally made cider & ‘Real Wiltshire Apple Juice’

Seasonal Gift Packs of still & sparkling ciders available plus Bag-in-Box Farmhouse Cider, ideal for festive get-togethers.

Customers can enjoy the orchard experience & are welcome to sample our vintage ciders & weekend offer of complementary mulled cider.

OUR CHRISTMAS SHOP IS NOW OPEN

Advertise here from as little as £15 per week*

Pound Lane, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LF Email info@thegranaryboa.com Phone 01225 867781 www.thegranaryboa.com

Call 01225 807775 or email andy@wired-publishing.co.uk

*plus VAT

shedcider.com // 07968 115640

gift guide

HAVING A SCARF

MOUSE IN THE HOUSE

Soft Colourful Star Scarf, £17.95

By The Way • fb.com/bythewayshop

Felt Mice, £7.95 Bonbon Chic bonbonchicshop.co.uk

ON THE BLOCK

Acacia Knife Block, £25 Strawberry Blue strawberrybluehome.co.uk

THE OLD BAMBOO

Bamboo Wax Melt Warmer, £12.99, Wax Melt, £1.99 Trowbridge Garden Centre trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

DAILY GRIND

Olive Wood Pestle & Mortar, £30 Cornhylle fb.com/cornhylle

CLASSIC COLLECTION Delta Men's Classic Leather Driving Glove, £65 Dents • dentsgloves.com

44 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

gift guide

GARDENERS' DELIGHT

CUSHY NUMBER

NGS Vouchers, £various The Nursery the-nursery.co.uk

Handmade Cushion Cover, £23 Made in Bradford on Avon madeinbradfordonavon.co.uk

EXTENDABLE FRIEND

Christmas Frosty Snowman Buddy With Extendable Legs, £26.99 Lakeside Garden Centre fonthill-lakeside.com

THINK SMALL!

PILLOW TALK

Get on board

Heatable Or Cooling Lavender Eye Pillow, £11.99 Haus Life • hauslife.co.uk

chocolate box

Handmade Seasonal Chocolate Box, from £7.50 Hollychocs • hollychocs.com

One Of A Kind Handcrafted Charcuterie Boards, £50-£150 R Design\\ • fb.com/RDesignUK

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 45

We are an online toy retailer based in Bradford on Avon.

We stock a range of toys from well-known manufacturers as well as our own brand of wooden kitchens, baby walkers, wigwams and dolls houses.

FREE

LOCAL DELIVERY

Find us at

mollyandfriends.co.uk fi

THE PERFECT PLACE TO BUY UNIQUE, HANDMADE GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS

Multi-Award-Winning Family Run Chocolate Studio.

Chocolates engineered to perfection to provide the ultimate sensory experience.

Award-Winning Chocolates | Monthly Boxes Chocolate Masterclasses | Bake-At-Home Kits Advent Calendars | Wedding Favours Corporate Gifts & Much More...

www.madeinbradfordonavon.co.uk ft madeinbradfordonavon@gmail.com ip

Shop online or come & visit our Studio Open Thurs-Sat, 10am-2pm Poulshot Lodge Farm, Devizes SN10 1RQ www.hollychocs.co.uk | info@hollychocs.co.uk

f Little

Sugarush

i

7 Maristow Street, Westbury littlesugarush@icloud.com • 07563 130275

Know anyone with a sweet tooth?

With over 90 pick’n’mix & a wide range of old fashioned style sweets to choose from, Little Sugarush is the perfect place! Come and choose your own sweets or create that extra special personalised sweet gift for any occasion!

We look forward to seeing you!

The Old Wharf, Frome Rd, Bradford on Avon BA15 1LE

tel 01225 868888 • Find us on

fi

Join us for a Gin-filled Christmas at Still Sisters!

Our Gin & Christmas Tapas packages run from Mon 22nd Nov - Sat 18th Dec

Christmas Shopping Nights Every Thursday from 25th November

Please call 01373 474647 or head to stillsisters.co.uk to book your table!

if

Ashton Park, Handlemaker Road, Frome, Somerset BA11 4RW We are open: Mon - Weds: 10 - 5, Thurs: 10 - 8, Fri & Sat: 10 - late

gift guide

GLOVE ACTUALLY

Helene Women's Cashmere Lined Leather Glove, £85 Dents • dentsgloves.com

COASTING ALONG

LET IT SNOW

Locally Handmade Coasters, £12 per set of 4 Cornhylle • fb.com/cornhylle

XL Wobbly Snowman, £14.99 Lakeside Garden Centre fonthill-lakeside.com

BACK OFF

Healthy Back Real Leather Bag £149 Footloose • Find them on Facebook

SOUND THE ALARM LED Alarm Clock With Wireless Charger, £27.99 Davies of Westbury daviesofwestbury.co.uk

GINGERBREAD IN THE HOUSE Polar Bear & Woodland Friends Gingerbread Tin, £8.99 Trowbridge Garden Centre trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

48 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

gift guide

ART DECO

THINK SMALL!

An Art Mode Serendipity Figure, £32.50 SL Corden • slcorden.com

GOOD HAIR DAYS

No-kink Hair Ties, £5, Lottie Loves • lottie-loves.com

BAUBLES & ALL

Glass & Filled Baubles, from £3.99 Haus Lifestyle • hauslife.co.uk

BEE HAPPY

Bee Skipping Rope, £6.99 Trowbridge Garden Centre trowbridgegardencentre.co.uk

BIRD WATCHING

Hand-carved DCUK Garden Bird, £24.99 Strawberry Blue • strawberrybluehome.co.uk

HAND IN GLOVE

York Men's Lambskin Gloves, £119 Dents • dentsgloves.com

FILL IT WITH FLOWERS Craig Eyles Ceramic Vase, £45 Made in Bradford on Avon madeinbradfordonavon.co.uk

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 49

CROCKERTON, WARMINSTER, WILTSHIRE OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 8.30-5.30, SUNDAY 10.30-4.30

01985 217 413 | info@fonthill-lakeside.com

christmas

A WHITEHALL CHRISTMAS Whitehall Garden Centre is looking forward to another busy Christmas full of festive cheer for all the family.

from, vegan and kitchen essentials!

Here you can find a huge selection of festive foods, great for gifting or enjoying over the Christmas period.

Whitehall's full Christmas collection is now available to buy online

The Homeware & Gift shop overflows with style and thoughtful items, making lovely additions to your home, or as presents for friends and family. From kitchenware, candles, books, greeting cards and children’s toys; making Whitehall a one stop shop for festive gift giving and year round delights.

A

firm favourite in the area and further afield, Whitehall Garden Centre is a 4th generation family business that has become the top destination garden centre in the South West. With stores in Lacock, Whitchurch and Woodborough, Whitehall has also launched a brand new website and online shop, offering delivery across the UK. The much loved Christmas shops return, bringing festive joy to visitors and a great day out for those with children to enjoy the impressive festive displays. Proudly boasting the largest collection of Gisela Graham decorations in the world, Whitehall has made it their mission to help you to bring the magic of Christmas to your home. This year, the full Christmas collection is also available to buy online, so you don’t need to be local to enjoy the biggest Christmas range in the UK.

52

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Whitehall Vineyard was established in the Spring of 2017, with 16,000 vines planted by hand. Four years later, the Vineyard has many awardwinning wines to its name and goes from strength to strength. Making In-store plant experts are on hand the perfect gift for Christmas, these to give advice and guidance from herbs to trees, shrubs to houseplants. wines strive to give a taste of Wiltshire in every glass. Buy online, or at any of Striving to help customers make the most of their gardens, no matter the Whitehall Garden Centres. the size; the huge range of plants To find out more, visit the website to cater to every outdoor space. A visit shop online or for more info about to the Lacock store is not complete the locations and stores. without a visit to the Lavender Lodge Tea Room and Bistro, serving a range • whitehallgardencentre.co.uk of delicious breakfasts, lunches and sweet treats. The perfect place to relax and unwind with friends, family and a hot drink!

“Whitehall has made it their mission to help you to bring the magic of Christmas to your home.”

The new Farm Shop at Lacock opened last year, and is filled with lots of fantastic products. From fresh locally sourced vegetables and meat, to luxury frozen meals, free

We provide high quality stonemasonry services to homes & commercial properties throughout Wiltshire & across the UK.

WE SPECIALISE IN

• Marble, limestone & granite worktops • Stone & marble fireplaces • Marble bathrooms • Stone restoration work • Bespoke work With over 35 years’ experience crafting in marble, granite, quartz & sintered stone you can trust P.M. Bines to complete your project to the highest standard. email marble.bines@btconnect.com tel 01225 782888 pmbinesltd.co.uk

Wiltshire’s Expert Stonemasons

house & home

NEW TRENDS FOR 2022 STEPHEN GRAVER looks at some of the trends coming to a home near you!

S

o, we’re heading towards the end of 2021, a year many will be happy to see the back of for so many reasons. But 2022 is presenting us with so many opportunities for change!

1) DARK IS THE NEW LIGHT! The past decade has all been about white, bright colours. Now natural wood, dark granite, and polished concrete are in and earthy dark browns, walnuts, midnight greens and beautiful oxblood and crimson are making an entrance.

2) DE-CLUTTERING & MINIMALIZING Finding your inner 'Marie Kondo' reached its peak over lockdown, Make room for open shelving to display ornaments and treasures

There is increased demand for dark materials in kitchens and elsewhere

"earthy dark browns, walnuts, midnight greens and beautiful oxblood and crimson are making an entrance." and open shelving is a great way of forcing yourself to make some room to show your pride and joy ornaments and photographs. People were afraid of the loss of storage but are now realising how to bring together beauty and functionality.

3) NATURAL WOOD AND TEXTURES These are making a re-emergence in small bursts, such as a kitchen island or worktop, and with beautiful natural flooring. It’s a great way of bringing a more natural feel in to any scheme and really adding warmth.

4) BOLD ARTWORK Use bright art or creative wallcoverings to add a burst of personality to a room if you usually prefer the beiges and creams.

Stunning images of flowers, fruit, trees, wildlife and abstract patterns 54 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

are making a comeback and can make a room look and feel different.

The ‘feature wall’ is ready to return!

Just not in a Changing Rooms way!

5) HOME OFFICE The working from home culture has seen a move away from “open-plan” design to requiring a greater sense of functionality and privacy around the home. Where kitchens became Zoom rooms and working spaces, a return to formal dining spaces, cosy family living rooms and workspaces and studies will force us to think about how we want to use the spaces we live, work and play in from now on.

Whatever your living space, we hope it’s a haven for you and your family and friends this Christmas.

• stephengraver.com

images © Pete Helme Photography

Many of us have had an opportunity to re-assess our living space over the past two years with the extra time we’ve spent at home whilst others have made the leap to pastures new. As with every year, designers are predicting what the trends will be so here’s just a few to consider if you’re in the market for a change or upgrade in your living space!

images © Pete Helme Photography

house & home

CHEVERELL

There is a lot more to CHEVERELL than just beautiful kitchens...

Cheverell is best known for its stunning kitchens...

E

stablished in 1989 as a one-man operation, today the company has a stunning showroom and state-of-the-art workshop in Devizes, and a close-knit team of innovative designers and skilled craftsmen offering the highest quality craftsmanship.

Cheverell is run by Neil Straker and Justyn Pollock who have been working together for 29 years. Neil says, “We are very proud that all our kitchens and furniture are all made in our workshop in Devizes. We are doing our bit to keep the heritage of British craftsmanship alive.”

...But can also help with boot rooms...

56 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

The company is best known for their bespoke hand-crafted kitchens, but that is just part of what the company offers. Neil continues, “We offer far more than just kitchens. We can help in all areas of your home

“We can help in all areas of your home including utility areas and boot rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and dressing rooms.” including utility areas and boot rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and dressing rooms. We offer a complete service, from initial concept through to full design. We carry out room preparations - including all the associated building work - to final installation and decorating. It’s a complete turnkey service.”

“With more people working from home, we have also been commissioned to create various home studies and offices with fitted

bookshelves and free standing desks. Quite simply our aim is to get everything just right, to exceed your expectations and create uniquely beautiful kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and furniture that you will adore. So whatever home improvement project you have in mind give us a call and pop in for a no obligation consultation.”

• cheverell.co.uk

...bathrooms and much more besides...

wildlife

FEED THE BIRDS

As well as feeding the family this Christmastime, be sure to help the local wildlife population too.

W

inter is a difficult time for wildlife with natural food harder to find and the last of the autumn berries gone, the ground may be frozen or waterlogged and insects are scarce. When temperatures fall, birds use more energy fluffing up their feathers to stay warm and with short daylight hours there is less time to search for food. However, we can lend them a helping hand by making food, fresh water and shelter available in our gardens.

that frighten smaller ones away.

One solution is to put the foods that attract the larger birds in a separate feeder away from the others.

Bird feeding stations made up of bird tables and hanging feeders filled with high energy food will give wild birds a greater chance of making it through to the spring. Different birds feed in different ways from hanging to ground feeders and they like different food so the more varied the selection of food available, the more variety of birds you will attract. For example, peanuts will attract birds

Monitor your food supply carefully.

If the food takes days to clear, reduce the amount of food you're offering.

A bird feeding station is not just useful in winter, you can continue to support the wild bird population as they will benefit from the additional food during the nest building period as well as when they are raising young.

KEEPING GARDEN BIRDS HEALTHY

clean. Food on the ground should all be eaten before nightfall. Rats are attracted to leftover food and often carry diseases, which can affect birds or humans.

Keep bird tables and surrounding areas clean and free from droppings or mouldy food, which can provide breeding grounds for parasites and bacteria. Try to avoid accumulating large amounts of droppings.

Clean and wash your bird table and hanging feeders regularly (ideally, using a 5% disinfectant solution), and move feeding stations to a new area every month to prevent droppings accumulating underneath. Bird baths should be rinsed out and filled with fresh water daily.

Don't bring your feeders into your house to clean them - do it outside,

Use a bird table or hanging such as jays, woodpeckers, tits and nuthatches while the garden robin loves meal worms.

Mixed seed feeders are great but can get dominated by larger birds

feeders.

A ground feeding tray is preferable to putting food directly on the ground because it's easier to keep

"Mixed seed feeders are great but can get dominated by larger birds that frighten smaller ones away."

58 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

wearing gloves and using separate utensils.

Always wash your hands when you've finished too.

Wild Ivy

COVERING WILTSHIRE, SOMERSET & DEVON

• Extensions • Conversions • New Builds • Maintenance • Property Refurbishment • Kitchens & Bathrooms

James has spent 20 years designing & caring for gardens. He can help with everything from day to day maintenance to design & landscaping.

• RHS QUALIFIED GARDENER • MAINTENANCE • DESIGN & LANDSCAPING • PRUNING • TREE CARE • WATER FEATURES

wild-ivy.co.uk

07940 261734 • info_wildivy23@yahoo.com

01747 820422

Unit 1, Wylye Road, Hindon, Salisbury SP3 6ER

enquiries@pfparsons.co.uk www.pfparsons.co.uk

01225 769145 07881 496923 With free no obligation quotations, helpful advice and brilliant customer service we promise to leave all clients happy!

PAVING

DECKING

LANDSCAPING

FENCING

SHEDS

FROM BEAUTIFUL GARDENS TO SECURE FENCES, WE CAN HELP. FIND US AT DUNKIRK BUSINESS PARK, SOUTHWICK

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

events

BOA BOOK FIESTA!

I

Bradford on Avon Book Fiesta 2021: ‘Life Is Sweeter With Books’ events are taking place right up until Christmas...

n 2020, author, creative writing lecturer and popular broadcaster on Bath and West Wilts Radio, Gabrielle Malcolm, forced by the pandemic to stay at home, decided to turn a series of cancelled book launches and events into a free virtual arena for book-lovers around the world. From the bedroom of her home in Bradford on Avon, she Zoomed with internationallysuccessful writers, streaming her interviews on Facebook for free to a global audience. Bradford on Avon Book Fiesta was born.

Following on from last year’s successful online launch, organisers have announced a thrilling celebration of popular fiction for 2021. With a focus on entertaining readers, events for children and writing for mental health, this year’s programme comprises both virtual events and interviews and live events in venues around Bradford on Avon, and features a plethora of both international and local authors from all genres.

CONFIRMED LIVE EVENTS INCLUDE: At The Swan Hotel, best-selling writer Lizzie Lane talks about her work including The Tobacco Girls saga series, set in her home city of Bristol where many of her family worked in the cigarette and cigar factories. Also at The Swan, Gabrielle Malcolm, Fiesta Director and author of Fan Phenomena: Jane Austen, looks at the legacy of Frankenstein author and one-time Bath resident Mary Shelley (in association with Bath’s House of Frankenstein).

60 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

At the Kettlesmith Brewing Company, Trowbridge-based historical novelist Matthew Harffy, discusses his best-selling Dark Age thrillers, the Bernicia Chronicles series, Wolf of Wessex and Time for Swords.

Saturday morning events for young people at Bradford on Avon Library include workshops with Jasbinder Bilan, Costa Children’s Book Award Winner 2019 for Asha and the Spirit Bird; Robert Starling, illustrator and author of the Waterstones Prize shortlisted Fergal is Fuming and Alex Cotter, author of House on the Edge.

ONLINE INTERVIEWS INCLUDE: Texan author, blogger and awardwinning librarian Margarita Longoria, talks about the YA anthology Living Beyond Borders: Growing up Mexican in America which she has compiled from the stories, essays and poems of celebrated Mexican American authors.

Shruthi Rao (USA) and Anuradha Jagalur (UK), discuss their co-authored celebration of libraries: Spaceship to the Universe: The Story of Libraries, in which they bring together inspiring and fascinating

stories to delight all those who love books and libraries.

Alison Larkin, the English-American stand-up comic, novelist and actor and multi awardwinning, number 1 best-selling audio narrator of more than 200 audiobooks, (including all of Jane Austen's novels), talks about her career.

BBC television critic Tina Baker worked as a journalist and broadcaster for 30 years before publishing her debut novel (and winning Celebrity Fit Club). She talks about her best-selling psychological thriller Call Me Mummy and her new work, Nasty Little Cuts.

In addition, the Fiesta will be hosting a series of Writing for Well-being workshops available from local practitioners, poets and therapeutic writing specialists.

A range of attractive, print-ondemand, sustainably-sourced Fiesta merchandising designed by Jenny Dack, of BOA’s Overt Designs, is also available.

• facebook.com/BoABookFiesta • bradfordonavon.co.uk/whats-on

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

Howard Roofing For All Your Roofing Needs

Qualified Roofer Offering...

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

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

www.howardroofing.co.uk

Allsop Carpets & Flooring

Cormar Carpets Primo Natural Range

• Carpets • Vinyl • Naturals • Wood Flooring

www.allsopcarpets.co.uk | 01373 463866 Corner Garage, Christchurch St West, Frome BA11 1EB

Using British Manufacturers & Suppliers

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

...thanks for shopping local

fti

SEASONS GREETINGS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS OLD AND NEW! 01985 847031 • sofacoplus@yahoo.co.uk • sofaco.co.uk • 15 George St, Warminster, BA12 8QA

O CO PE FF N EE N BAR O W !

FOR GREAT DESIGN IDEAS, COME & VISIT OUR

INTERIORS SHOWROOM

Bespoke Curtains & Blinds, Curtain Poles, Upholstery, Interior Design, Fabrics & Wallpapers, Flooring, Rugs, Accessories. Measuring, Fitting & Decorating Services also available.

Includes Inspirational Bathrooms, Bedrooms & Kitchens 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

NOW OPEN IN MELKSHAM... @HOME WITH PERFECT ROOMS HOMEWARES

• www.perfectrooms.co.uk • Tel: 01249 716445 • interiors@perfectrooms.co.uk

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INDEPENDENT SHOWROOM OPEN IN WARMINSTER! Open: Monday-Friday 9am–5.30pm, Saturday 9am - 2pm, Sunday Closed

A new family-run bathroom and tile showroom offering an extensive range of bathrooms and tiles to suit all budgets and tastes, from traditional to contemporary.

FULL INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE We stock trusted bathroom brands including Roca, Scudo, Heritage as well as quality floor and wall tiles from Porcelanosa, Minoli and many more...

(Parking to the front of the showroom and a collection point to the rear.)

6 Silver Street, Warminster BA12 8PN Email: info@tilehousewarminster.com Tel: 01985 804745

legal & financial

PEACE OF MIND FOR YOU & YOUR LOVED ONES

K

athryn Smith Cowap, a Partner in the Private Client team at Wansbroughs Solicitors explains why making a Will is so important.

If you die without leaving a Will, your estate will be distributed in accordance with the intestacy rules. This means that if you are married or in a civil partnership and you die intestate, your spouse or civil partner will not automatically inherit your entire estate. Instead, if you have children, the survivor will receive the first £270,000 of your estate, plus one-half of the remaining estate. The other half will be held for your children.

call 01380 733300 or email If you are not married then your wealth@wansbroughs.com. children will inherit your estate, even if you are in a long-term relationship. Where children inherit, • wansbroughs.com they will receive their share outright Kathryn Smith Cowap at the age of 18.

If these outcomes don’t reflect your wishes then you need a Will. As well as allowing you to specify who should inherit your assets, you can use your Will to appoint guardians to look after your children and stipulate to whom certain personal items should pass.

For peace of mind for both you and your loved ones, simply get in touch with our team today. You can

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 65

business

STUDIO BACCHUS

STUDIO BACCHUS recently opened its doors as a creative co-work space housed within one of Bradford on Avon’s beautiful historic buildings.

S

tudio Bacchus is run by Ruth and Klas Hyllén. Ruth, an artist and art therapist, and Klas, an architect, run small businesses themselves and bought The Vaults and The Vintners, two unloved listed buildings at 24 Silver Street in Bradford on Avon in 2015 with the ambition of creating a live-work dream.

Studio Bacchus a new creative work hub in the centre of Bradford on Avon

The Vintners was an old wine warehouse, complete with a cast iron barrel lift in the basement and a very early example of a reinforced concrete floor. Eight carved stone heads of Roman gods make up the front facade to the Vaults with Bacchus himself taking pride of place and often smiling down on curious visitors on the BoA historic buildings’ tour.

An ambitious eco-retrofit to the Vintners was completed in 2019 and is now the home of Ruth, Klas and their two children whilst the overhaul to The Vaults into Studio Bacchus was a labour of love during lockdown. The couple were thrilled to welcome their first members in May this year, just as restrictions lifted.

Studio Bacchus is a creative workspace for small, local businesses looking to make meaningful connections and through sharing ideas and knowledge. Memberships are offered on a ‘co-work’ or ‘resident’ basis depending on the number of days they require per week. The workspace offers an opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals within a comfortable and relaxed studio-office where Ruth and Klas aim to create a supportive and professional environment for 66 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

"The workspace offers an opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals within a comfortable and relaxed studio-office" freelancers or individuals looking for alongside Quercus Gallery and the an alternative to working from home. contemporary art space - Obsidian Coast, just down the road.

Klas says, “We want to build a space where members feel they can be part Ruth says, “We’ve been amazed by of and shape a work community with the talent that exists in our little town, there’s such a wealth of interesting an element of permanence about businesses run by intelligent it, like if you’re working in a friendly entrepreneurs and individuals. We medium-sized company, with great love being local and we love running colleagues, but with the difference small, client-focused businesses, but that we all do different things”. we missed being around people.

Studio Bacchus is looking to plug that Studio Bacchus is just five minutes’ walk from the train station and forms gap and we think many out there share that sentiment.” part of an increasingly artisanal quarter of Silver Street, with The • studiobacchus.co.uk Bunch of Grapes just opposite,

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.

OUR TREATMENTS INCLUDE...

ACUPUNCTURE COUNSELLING CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY

(treating babies, children & adults)

HOMEOPATHY MASSAGE THERAPY

OSTEOPATHY PSYCHOTHERAPY REFLEXOLOGY REIKI SPORTS MASSAGE SOFT TISSUE THERAPY

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

bath rugby

ORLANDO BAILEY

Bath Rugby have endured a torrid start to the season but one of the few bright lights has been the emergence of academy players like Orlando Bailey. Here he explains more about his start in the game and his ambitions for his career.

C

hildhood plays a big role in what aspirations you have. My family have always supported Bath; my dad and brother would go to games and as soon as I was old enough I’d go along too.

Orlando Bailey

We’d play in the garden and I started playing rugby when I was 5-years old so it was a passion from a young age. I always had a goal to be a professional rugby player; I wanted to study Architecture at Bath University and play for Bath Rugby – I don’t do mates and speak most days. He was Architecture, but I am at the university in the Academy until he was 18 and studying International Development there was a potential route for him and I am playing for Bath. to play professional rugby, but he has forged his own path in graphic I’m quite a competitive person so design. He inspired me to try and gain once I’d set my goal and realised the same opportunities; it influenced rugby was a potential career path I my move to Beechen Cliff Sixth Form wanted to give it everything. Neither for their awesome rugby programme. of my parents are particularly pushy.

They supported me immensely and I have had some truly inspirational gave me the balance in my life that coaches such Mike Sprules allowed me the freedom to explore (Dorchester RFC) and Ryan Davis the avenue I wanted to pursue, (Beechen Cliff and Bath Rugby) that and it made me realise if you give everything in the direction you want “I love this city to go in, you can make it happen. and I’ve always As I was growing up, I learned things off my older siblings. My brother, Caspar, who is four years older than me, was in the Bath Academy and I’d always be at his games. Watching him was probably one of the biggest drivers for me as I wanted to be as good as him and I didn’t want to let him down when we were practising in the garden! I wanted to be playing with the big boys all the time and I wanted to be where he was at. It was natural for me to look up to Caspar.

We talk about everything; we’re best 68 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

wanted to play for Bath, to represent the city and the blue, black and white”

have helped me enjoy my rugby through the age groups by coaching an exciting brand of rugby which I am passionate about, which could improve my personal skills and game every day.

Rugby is always something I’ve known and enjoyed. I love this city and I’ve always wanted to play for Bath, to represent the city and the Blue, Black and White. A huge goal of mine is to win the Premiership with Bath and become one of the best players in the Premiership. It will be a long old journey but I’m lucky to have a good support network around me to be able to express myself, follow that path and give everything to it.

• bathrugby.com

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

4 Dec 11 Dec 18 Dec 26 Dec 29 Dec

15:00 15:15 13:00 16:30 19:45

A A H H H

Northampton Saints Leinster Rugby Stade Rochelais Gloucester Rugby Exeter Chiefs

GP ERCC ERCC GP PRC

TV TV TV

health & wellbeing

TREAT THE ONE YOU LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS

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ift vouchers can be purchased in store or over the phone, and are a perfect Christmas gift that gives people something lovely to look forward to in the New Year.

Gift vouchers are a great Christmas present

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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) Riffle a) a street brawl b) a knife board c) to play with one's food

2) Mammock a) an urchin b) a clumsy fool c) to pull to pieces

a) a spade’s depth in digging b) a pathway up to a steep hill c) the space between two furrows in a ploughed field

4) Billy-Button a) a person who enjoys eating fine

OFFICE JARGON...

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70 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

A pig in a python a surge in a statistic measured over time Boiling frog syndrome a company which fails to recognise gradual market change (as a slowlyboiled frog may not detect a slow temperature increase) Moose on the table an issue which everyone in a business meeting knows is a problem but which no one wants to address Elephant in the room the big problem that is obvious to all but which everyone ignores or avoids mentioning because it might be politically or socially embarrassing Seagull manager a manager who flies in, makes a lot of noise, poops over everything, and then leaves

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

3) Rudge

food, a glutton b) a youth between boyhood and manhood c) a fool or dimwit

puzzles

TEA BREAK TEASERS CHRISTMAS WORDSEARCH

What/who is missing from the grid?

ADVENT ANGEL CHIMNEY CAROLS DECORATIONS

ELF EGGNOG FESTIVE GIFTS ICE SKATING

JINGLE BELLS NATIVITY SANTA CLAUS SHEPHERDS WISE MEN

WIN A £20 iTUNES VOUCHER! SUDOKU

MEDIUM

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Q1: Which composer wrote Hark The Herald Angels Sing?

Q2: Which Cambridge University college is famous for its Nine Lessons & Carols at Christmas?

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: BROWN SUGAR Quiz answers 1: Last Sunday before advent.

2: Sunday 21st November.

3: A Collection of above Three Hundred Receipts in Cookery, Physick and Surgery.

4: Jesus and the Twelve Apostles.

5: Raisins

72 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Q3: In which European country is Lebkuchen a traditional Christmas treat?

Q4: In Italian Christmas/New Year celebrations who is La Befana?

Q5: In a Polish Christmas what is Pasterka?

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last word

I

THE CHRISTMAS GARAGE...

love Christmas - I’ve probably banged on about it more than once. Last year was spoilt a little bit by the dreaded C-Word. I did do my best to completely ignore what was going on but with a mask on it became difficult. This year though I have gone all out to restore the Christmas spirit to The Rockliffe household.

‘stockpiling’ or ‘panic buying’, that’s what other people do; when I do it it’s called ‘getting ahead of the game’! Where though to store these essential Christmas items so they would actually make it to Christmas and my wife and I would still be able to get through the front door? I give you, drum roll please, The Christmas Garage (hereafter known as TCG).

Usually I don’t buy anything edible for the festive season too early. If you go down that road you have to keep yummy stuff in the house and being the greedy little piggy that I am quite a bit of the Christmas goodies don’t actually make it to Christmas. Back in August though

My theory is this. Store everything in TCG and there are - depending on which way you go - at least two locked doors you have to negotiate to break into your stash. Then there is the cold and possibly wet weather to contend with - you might even have to put some shoes. All this

“Store everything in TCG and there are depending on which way you go - at least two locked doors you have to negotiate to break into your stash.”

I had a tip off from a friend who works at a well known supermarket that the supply chain issues that were occurring at the time may filter down to Christmas!!! Well I don’t mind telling you there were scenes not unlike Lance Corporal Jones in Dad’s Army with me running in circles shouting “Don’t panic, don’t panic!! No food at Christmas!!

Christmas is cancelled!! Don’t panic!!” I decided I would have to bite the bullet and start buying the goodies early (from now on I am calling them essentials as, frankly, that’s what they are). You will notice there is no mention of the words 74 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

adds up to a lot of fuss; ergo we’ll not bother and everything will all still be there on the big day. That’s the theory!!!

What the theory doesn’t take into account, first of all, is the fact that the essentials have to make it into TCG in the first place. This has proved to be a problem. Next you have to factor in the determination of a greedy guts like me who knows there are Christmas ‘essentials’ just five feet away... they may be protected by locked doors and brick walls but five feet is still only five feet.

When I cave, and cave I always do, I go in and it’s like an episode of Bullseye. All the ‘essentials’ are stacked neatly on two shelves (I’ll let you into a secret, I’ve just started a third!) and you can almost hear Tony Green and Jim Bowen saying, “In 1, a Terry’s Chocolate Orange”...”In 2, a box of Elizabeth Shaw mints”!

I think my proudest TCG moment though is introducing my friend Tara to the TCG experience. We now send each other messages almost nightly about what we have snaffled from our TCG’s and on one very special evening I even received a video of her making a trek to her own TCG... I was so proud!!

This Christmas should, hopefully, be a little bit more normal than last year and 2022 may even be properly back to somewhere near the normality we all remember. So enjoy yourselves, have a fantastic Christmas and a great New Year and remember Christmas essentials aren’t just for Christmas... you can eat them anytime you want.

Phil Rockliffe