The West Wilts Magazine - May 2022

MAY 2022 // ISSUE 146

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West Wilts The

MAGAZINE

+ TASTE OF CORSHAM GREEN SKY FESTIVAL BARTERS PLANTS THREE DAGGERS GOUGHS SOLICITORS

LACOCK DAIRY MEET THE MAKERS OF WILTSHIRE’S LOCAL GELATOS

HOUSE WORK

FEELING FESTIVE 10-PAGES OF FESTIVALS & EXHIBITIONS

FAKEAWAY NIGHT

‘TAKEAWAYS’ YOU CAN RECREATE AT HOME

ENJOY OUR 14-PAGE GUIDE TO SPRUCING UP YOUR HOME

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

EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN | COMPLETE INSTALLATION

5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS t 01225 309110

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Welcome

H LISA ROCKLIFFE

Editor e: lisa@wired-publishing.co.uk

MAY 2022 ISSUE 146 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 w: wired-publishing.co.uk

aving been starved of local events and festivals over the recent couple of years it is completely wonderful to see that we are positively tripping over them in the coming weeks. In this edition we feature the Green Sky Festival, If Opera, Corsham Walking Festival, Taste of Corsham, Photo Frome, Devizes Arts Festival, Bradford on Avon Food & Drink Festival as well as exhibitions, special Jubilee events and more. To see all these great local events gearing back up is food for the soul - read all about them from p14!

Our main front cover feature this month is focused on the home. We have compiled more than 14-pages dedicated to home improvements and who you can call on to help (starting on p39). But that’s not all, there is also lots more on gardening, including jobs for the month and a preview of this month’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the most prestigious gardening show of them all.

We’ve delicious ‘fakeaway’ recipes from The Food Wife (p31), we meet the producers of Lacock Dairy’s delicious gelatos (p28) and spoke with the new head chef at the Three Daggers (p34). Of course we have all our other usual favourites present and correct too. Enjoy.

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!

Front Cover: courtesy of Stephen Graver © Pete Helme Photography 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.

Lisa Rockliffe, Editor

Follow us on Twitter... @westwiltsmag Find us on Facebook..wiredpublishing Find an online version of the magazine and lots of extra content on our website.

westwiltsmag.co.uk

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Contents

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LOCAL LISTINGS What’s on in May

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LOCAL NEWS Green Sky Festival If Opera Corsham Walking Festival Taste of Corsham Photo Frome Devizes Arts Festival Jubilee celebrations at Haynes Coming up at Melksham Assembly Hall BOA Food & Drink Festival New at the Holburne Museum

14 14 16 16 20 20 22 22 24 24

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FOOD & DRINK Eat the Seasons Fakeaway recipes Meet the Chef at The Three Daggers

30 31 34

FEATURES Meet the Producers at Lacock Dairy Home Work - our home improvement special

26 39

HOME & GARDEN STE Garden jobs for May Chelsea Flower Show Barters Plants

39

52 56 58 60

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Goughs Wansbroughs

62 65

CAREERS Working for Dorothy House

64

BATH RUGBY New arrivals for the 2022/23 season

68

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES That’s interesting...

Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku

70 72

COMMENT The Last Word 4 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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WHERE YOUR PET IS A MEMBER OF OUR FAMILY TOO

For over 50 years, Garden Veterinary Group has been providing high quality, compassionate veterinary services in Chippenham and Corsham.

01249 653181 • 01249 716432

www.gardenvets.co.uk fi

Online booking & medication ordering available

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary Saving stray & unwanted dogs since 1958

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

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

Our dogs are all vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, neutered (if old enough), chipped, and looking for loving new homes

OPEN DAILY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY (Office Hours: 10:00-12:00 & 14:00-16:00)

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

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

events

listings local

MAY 2022

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL

Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 melkshamassemblyhall.com HAPPY AND GLORIOUS 26 May, 2pm Tickets: £14 (Concs £12) A heart-warming afternoon of patriotic nostalgia culminating in a trademark flag-waving tribute to the veterans of the armed forces.

HOMETOWN GLORY: A TRIBUTE TO ADELE 28 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 Voted the best Adele tribute two years running, Natalie Black AKA Hometown Glory is bringing her breathtaking act to the Assembly Hall.

POUND ARTS CENTRE

Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 poundarts.org.uk EVERYTHING I DIDN’T SAY 6 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) A funny, subtle sucker-punch of a show.

CHARM OF FINCHES 7 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £14 (Concs £12) The sister duo, Mabel and Ivy Windred-Wornes, grew up busking old time tunes and singing on festival stages around Australia.

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AUTHOR TALK: THE BOY BETWEEN 12 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £7 Join best-selling author Amanda Prowse and her son Josh for an inspiring, informative and honest discussion about mental illness.

unmissable return, promoting their highly anticipated third studio album.

TOWN HALL ARTS

Market Street, Trowbridge BA14 8EQ Tel: 01225 774306 trowbridgetownhall.com

JACOB & DRINKWATER 14 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) The duo of acoustic singersongwriter Tobias Ben Jacob and multi-instrumentalist Lukas Drinkwater return with a UK tour this Summer featuring a brand-new set of songs from their latest album.

THE SCRIBES 7 May, 7.30pm Tickets: from £8 A multi-award winning hip hop act based in Bristol whose unique talents have combined to make a trademark sound unlike any other.

LUKE WRIGHT 19 May, 8pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) John Cooper Clarke’s regular warmup guy writes poems that are tender, riotous, caustic and romantic.

PIPE AND SLIPPERS RAVE 14 May, 6pm Tickets: from £5 It’s called a Pipe & Slippers Rave, because of the unconventionally early start & finish times, which are intended for the benefit of the (modern) Old Skool Raver!

DAPHNE’S FLIGHT 26 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £18 Join Daphne’s Flight on their Daphne’s Flight, Pound Arts

SEVERED ILLUSIONS 21 May, 7.30pm Tickets: from £8 One of Trowbridge’s longest serving bands, Severed Illusions play the biggest gig in town as the scene comes back into existence.

THE LOST TRADES 28 May, 7.30pm Tickets: from £8 The Lost Trades are the trio of Wiltshire based singer songwriters brought together by a mutual love of modern folk and roots music.

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

FOR A BEAUTIFUL HOME VISIT OUR HOLT SHOWROOM

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

events

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE

Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 wiltshiremusic.org.uk BALUJI SHRIVASTAV OBE 7 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £18 Blind sitar master Baluji Shrivastav OBE presents Antardrishti / Inner Vision, a performance with the Inner Vision Orchestra – the only blind ensemble in the UK – inspired by the Hindu philosophical epic the Bhagavad Gita.

ORCHESTRA OF THE AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT 14 May, 7.30pm Tickets: from £17 WMC’s Orchestra in Residence return to perform Haydn’s symphonic masterpieces RANT 20 May, 7.30pm Tickets: from £10 A decade on from their first performance, RANT remain at the forefront of the Scottish folk fiddle scene.

THE ROYAL BALLET SWAN LAKE (AS LIVE) 22 May, 7.15pm Tickets: £16 (Concs £8) A classic love story mixing spectacle, mystery and passion, this classic fairy tale represents the battle between good and evil, and the attempt of love to conquer all.

EUROPEAN UNION CHAMBER ORCHESTRA 27 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £30 (Concs £16) The Ensemble return to WMC to perform a feast of chamber works from musical giants of the 17th & 18th centuries.

THE PUBLIC (Cert 15) 11 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 A warm and thoughtful drama about one of Cincinnati’s public libraries as it becomes an unlikely shelter for homeless people seeking warmth from the city’s cold weather.

NEELD ARTS CENTRE

FROME MEMORIAL THEATRE

FEAST OF FIDDLES 6 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £22.50 The Feast of Fiddles band-waggon gets moving again after two tour cancellations courtesy of the pandemic.

THE FUREYS 12 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £23 The Fureys are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination.

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

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

THE BEACH BOYZ TRIBUTE SHOW 8 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £21.50 Come join a journey in time and space, back to the 1960s, across to the sunny shores of the Golden State of California where the surf sound was conceived.

HAPPY DAYS PLATINUM JUBILEE SHOW 23 May, 2pm Tickets: from £16 Happy Days Productions are delighted to bring you their Celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Come and join them for a street party on stage, have a good old sing song and a good laugh.

THE ATHENAEUM CENTRE

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JIVE TALKIN’ PRESENTS THE BEE GEES 21 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £21 The original and best Bee Gees tribute band is back in Frome.

THAT’LL BE THE DAY 28 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £26 From humble beginnings, the show has grown into a “must see” attraction all over the UK, coming up with a new production from its multi-talented cast year after year.

CHEESE & GRAIN

18-20 High St, Warminster BA12 9AE Tel: 01985 213891 theath.org.uk

Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Wiltshire Music Centre

GO NOW! THE MUSIC OF THE MOODY BLUES 14 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £24.50 The Music of The Moody Blues is an opportunity for fans to experience this timeless music live.

THE TULSA TIME BAND 7 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £15.50 (Concs £12.50) The Tulsa Time Band return with their tribute show to the great Don Williams.

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

TREVOR NELSON - SOUL NATION 7 May, 8pm Tickets: £20 Trevor Nelson’s Soul Nation will once

For full listings go to each venue’s website

REAL ALES & LIVE MUSIC

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

image © Steve Nash

WWM074

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

Real Ales | Beer Garden | Pub Games Real Log Fires | Parking Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station

Telephone 01225 865876 Find us on Facebook

f

* NOT VALID IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER OFFERS. VALID BEFORE 7.30PM. EXPIRY DATE 30.06.22. ROAR.

✃✃

Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA

events ZION TRAIN 27 May, 8pm Tickets: £15 One of the most unique and enjoyable live dub acts on the planet.

Trevor Nelson, Cheese & Grain

more be packing the Cheese and Grain with the irresistibly slick and smooth stylings of the R&B king.

GILBERT O’SULLIVAN 14 May, 8pm Tickets: £32 Gilbert O’Sullivan is enjoying one of the most creative and commercially successful periods of an outstanding career.

FROM THE SPECIALS - NEVILLE STAPLE BAND 20 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £18.50 Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the hit single Ghost Town, Neville Staple – From The Specials, will be playing shows up and down the country.

HANG MASSIVE 21 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £22 Since 2011 Hang Massive have shaped the global handpan music scene, pioneering a successful electronic act with a magnetising live show.

THE MISSION 22 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £33.50 Iconic rockers The Mission return to the Cheese & Grain return as part of 4 exclusive warm-up shows in the UK. AIRBOURNE 25 & 26 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £25 Airbourne is the walking, talking, living, breathing, screaming, spitting, fist-pumping embodiment of all that hard rock has encompassed since the movement began.

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NIRVANA UK 28 May, 8pm Tickets: £12.50 A Nirvana tribute band that are based in the West Midlands formed from die-hard fans who love nothing more than recreating Nirvana’s live music for other fans.

VILLAGE PUMP

The Lamb, Mortimer St, Trowbridge thepumptrowbridge.co.uk MARTIN SIMPSON & ANDY CUTTING 20 May, 7.30pm Tickets: from £18 Equally at home playing English traditional folk, American folk and blues and his own compositions, Martin is consistently named as one of the very finest fingerstyle guitar players in the world.

THE PRESTBURY SPORTS BAR

The Close, Warminster, BA12 9AL prestburysportsbar.com All gigs are FREE! ABBAHOLICS 7 May, 8.30pm

BRADFORD ON AVON BOWLS CLUB OPEN DAY Culver Close, Pound Lane BA15 1LF 29 May, 11am-4pm FREE As part of the Bowls Big Weekend try your hand at this fascinating sport for free. No obligation to join just come along and have fun. All equipment provided but please wear flat shoes.

Call 01225 863066 or visit bradfordonavonbowlsclub.org.uk GLOUCESTER ROAD ALLOTMENTS PLANT SALE AND NOSH Gladstone Rd, Trowbridge, BA14 0AP 14 May, 11am – 1pm FREE All welcome with a plant sale and BBQ.

THE THREE HORSESHOES

55 Frome Road, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LA Tel: 01225 865876 Find them on Facebook All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm THE FORTUNATE SONS 6 May TRIPLE JD 7 May THE WORRIED MEN 8 May HATEPENNY + THIS IS WRECKAGE + THE ELECTRIC SHAKES 13 May

ABSOLUTE OASIS 14 May, 8.30pm

THE BLACKWOOD REDEEMERS 15 May

ROCKPORT BLUES 21 May, 8.30pm

STANTON PLC 20 May

OTHERS BUDDY HOLLY TRIBUTE CONCERT Heytesbury Church, High St, Heytesbury, Nr Warminster, BA12 0EQ 2 June, 7pm Tickets: Adults £10, Child £5 In aid of the Friends of H, K & T Churches. Refreshments available to buy. Call 01985 840501 after 6.30pm for more details.

THE FORGETTING CURVE 21 May THE GASOLINE BANDITS 22 May LIFE IN MONO + COLOUR OF BONE 27 May JOHN DIMENT 29 May

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

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local news

THE GREEN SKY FESTIVAL

T

his June, Corsham’s beloved Blue Sky Festival, a joyous, warm and quirky celebration of all things arts and culture, is getting an eco-friendly makeover.

Behold... The Green Sky Festival!

To mark their commitment to becoming carbon neutral by January 2030, The Pound Arts Centre is going green for their annual springtime festival, in order to help raise eco awareness throughout Wiltshire. Transform scrap paper into a beautiful bouquet of flowers, or leftover bottle caps into a stunning outdoor mural with a variety of recyclingbased arts and crafts workshops.

family shows, including ‘Catch That Beast’ and ‘The Rascally Diner’.

There will also be evenings of sumptuous live music from Bristolbased four-piece Road Not Taken and the Warwickshire songwriter Ellie Gowers, as well as a talk from the award-winning broadcaster and transport specialist Christian

Wolmar, and theatre with a powerful environmental message from performer Tom Bailey.

There’s so much more to see! For the full line-up, visit the website. Tickets can be booked online or by calling the box office on 01249 701628.

• greenskyfestival.org.uk

Corsham’s first Green Sky Festival is coming in June

Why sit under energy burning stage lights when the sun is just as good?

Catch some spectacular outdoor

A NEW SEASON FOR IF OPERA

I

f Opera welcomes everybody to its to the spectacular, performed inaugural season after its transition by a dazzling array of artists in a from Iford Arts.

Saddlespan theatre; a picnic prom with award winning jazz vocalist There is something for everyone Clare Teal; a baroque concert in a in this year’s programme; discover beautiful historic church, and the thrilling opera from the intimate ever popular interactive family show.

If Opera is the perfect backdrop for immersive music theatre

Picnic in the beautiful grounds of the rarely opened to the public, Grade 1 listed Belcombe Court - the perfect backdrop for some immersive music theatre.

Renowned for the quality of their productions and informal and welcoming style, start your journey with If Opera this summer. But if you can’t wait for that, you can also experience If Opera at Bath Festival this month with Tales from Chez Bullier on 15 May, as the Guildhall’s Banqueting Room in Bath is transformed into a Parisian Speakeasy.

New to opera? If Opera is for everyone, whether you’re a novice or aficionado. Book your tickets now via the website.

• ifopera.com

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local news

CORSHAM WALKING FESTIVAL

T

he 8th Corsham Walking Festival runs from 10-12 June and offers a great programme that allows all walkers to explore and discover this beautiful part of Wiltshire. To cater for a wide range of walking enthusiasts and abilities the walks on offer vary in distance and go from Easy through Moderate to Challenging.

As always, organisers will be offering some new walks, have fine-tuned some old favourites and have several experts to talk about specialist subjects en route, as well as experienced walk leaders and back markers to guide you.

The guided walks will cover Ancient Parishes and Manor Houses,

Industrial and Rural Heritage, Wildflowers and of course the beautiful town of Corsham and surrounding countryside with its hidden valleys, meandering brooks, and far-reaching views.

The free programme includes the ever-popular Children’s Treasure Hunt, whilst families and groups can join in our Cryptic Mystery Walk – ‘True or False – Can You Tell the Difference’. Use your powers of observation and deduction to decide whether the statements are true or false?

To find out more information please visit the website or use the QR code on their ad opposite.Booking for all walks is now open

The Walking Festival caters for a wide range of walking enthusiasts

• corshamwalkingfestival.org.uk

TASTE OF CORSHAM IS BACK!

T

aste of Corsham, the historic town’s fabulous food festival, is back for 2022! On Saturday 18 June, from 10am-4pm, the town centre and historic High Street will be full of stalls promoting the best local and regional food and drink.

Corsham’ in one day? Visitors can sample free tasters at local shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants, get their entry forms stamped as they go and not only discover the best food and drink Corsham has to offer, but also be in with the chance of winning a fizzy, bubbly prize.

Taste of Corsham is a great festival of food and fun - and there’s free parking in the car parks all day too! To find out more email tasteofcorsham@gmail.com or call 01249 702130.

• corsham.gov.uk

Organised by Corsham Town Council, as well as being a great taste experience for everyone, the

“Visitors can sample free tasters at local shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants” day will include live music on the Taste Stage - part of The Pound Arts Centre’s Green Sky Festival (poundarts.org.uk), street theatre, children’s activities – and the town’s delicious Taste Trail. Can you ‘eat 16

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Taste Of Corsham is a celebration of the best regional food and drink

10 - 12 JUNE 2022

BOOK NOW!

A full programme of guided & free walks for all ages & abilities For more details & to buy tickets visit: www.corshamwalkingfestival.org.uk

Visit our shop at 1 Church Street, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 0BY or online at coppins.co.uk 01249 715404 | info@coppins.co.uk IN-HOUSE GOLDSMITHS | BESPOKE DESIGN | READY TO WEAR JEWELLERY

Join the Treasure Hunt STILL UNSOLVED!

Wildlife artist Joanna May’s treasure hunt book continues. Are you dreaming of finding the Golden Hare painting worth thousands of pounds?

Apply Code WESTWILTS at checkout for 10% OFF the book!

TO JOIN THE ARM CHAIR TREASURE HUNT BUY THE BOOK

THE HARE ON THE MOON

Book Usual Price £29.95, Offer Price £26.95

New Map! (£8.50) to go with the book or to enjoy by itself

Within the hardback book, which is printed in gold and beautifully embossed, you look for the words and map coordinates to solve the puzzle. The reader follows the story of a hare who wants to break the spell which has placed her image on the moon.

To succeed, her task is to find twelve treasures at different famous landmarks. Amongst the landmarks are Silbury Hill, Stonehenge and Avebury with a final destination in Glastonbury.

You enter your solution online.The winning answer will be contacted within seven days & you can enter your solution as many times as you like.

To buy the book visit the website and click on Treasure Hunt Book or visit Joanna May Gallery 16 Northgate Street, Devizes SN10 1JL Open Thurs to Sat 10am to 5pm

Tel 07813 124120

www.joannamay.com

local news

PHOTO FROME FESTIVAL

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hoto|Frome is a new photography festival running from 21 June to 15 July featuring world-class exhibitions, thought-provoking talks, workshops, monographs, portfolio reviews, community involvement and more. The inaugural theme is The Independent Eye, celebrating photography as an art form and reflecting Frome’s spirit of independence.

black and white portrayals of her native Croatia are rich with emotion.

Hanna-Katrina Jędrosz documents the European Green Belt along the former Iron Curtain border, where wildlife paradoxically flourishes.

Portraits of strangers in East London

by Trinidad-born Robert Huggins are complemented by poetry. And Vanessa Fairfax-Woods offers a unique

perspective on the role of women at home. James Ravilious’s worldrenowned photography of Devon is complemented by the beautiful work of his friend Chris Chapman.

The festival will put photography firmly on the map in the South West.

• photofrome.org

Olga Karlovac’s Snow Storm In Dubrovnik

There are five exhibition venues and three others for talks and workshops.

More than 50 photographers will be featured. Dave Grohl, Oasis, U2 and many other bands are coming to Frome in the photographs of Danny North. Astronauts will be landing in Frome too thanks to John Angerson’s photos of NASA’s Space Shuttle STS-72. Olga Karlovac’s

DEVIZES ARTS FESTIVAL IS BACK!

Join Lesley Garrett, for a delightful evening of song, reminiscences,

Tankus The Henge

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chat, and anecdotes to give a unique insight into her life on the stage or The Darius Brubeck Quartet - another international name - coming from recent ‘sold out’ performances at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and the Camden Jazz Café.

Comedy comes in the shape of BBC Radio 4’s cop-turned-comedian Alfie Moore - ‘Fair Cop Unleashed’ –“it’d be a crime to miss it!” Also not to be missed are the naughty: ‘Scummy Mummies’: especially those who are really glad they don’t have kids! There won’t be a “dry eye in the house !”

widow! Also being presented and celebrated is the life of a genuinely unique human being, Quentin Crisp.

Bestselling crime fiction writer, Sophie Hannah talks about her work.

Well known auther ‘duo’ Nicci French will enlighten will enchant with their presentation. Both events will also include book signings.

For inspirational talks, leading travel commentator Simon Calder and garden designer Adam Frost will delight you with their experiences.

Other musical events include Tankus the Henge, Baia laCumbia, The Classical events include internationally Homing, Asa Murphy and his band, acclaimed Leonore Piano Trio and the as well as other free fringe events. award-winning chamber ensemble The Festival ends with a rave hosted the Borealis Saxophone Quartet and by well know Irish band Absolute for drama hear whether Shakespeare actually wrote the plays – from his • devizesartsfestival.org.uk

image © Sophie Hervet

W

ith two weeks of superb events of all genres and for all tastes Devizes Arts Festival is back in full swing from 10 to 25 June. Taking place in various locations in the town centre, there are some big names coming, and high quality events planned:

local news

JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS AT HAYNES

J

oin Haynes Motor Museum in celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee this May half term. There’s so much to see and do at the Museum for the whole family.

Explore seven decades of automotive excellence with the brand-new Jubilee Trail. Journey through the Museum discovering the differences of car design throughout the decades as well as learning riveting royal facts! Not forgetting the Jubilee offer for ‘One Goes Free For The Jubilee!’* Receive one FREE child’s annual pass with one paying adult or concession ticket.

special seats for her corgis? Let your imaginations run wild! Winner’s receive a Family Ticket to the Museum. T&Cs apply. Find out more on how to enter the competition

and more about the Museum’s Jubilee activities from the website or call 01963 440804.

• haynesmuseum.org

“Explore seven decades of automotive excellence with the brand-new Jubilee Trail.”

Haynes Motor Museum has lots planned to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee

Finally, take part in the Haynes Motor Museum special Jubilee drawing competition! Can you draw a car fit for the Queen? Does it have lasers?

Extra storage for her crown or even

NEXT UP AT THE ASSEMBLY HALL

A

s we head towards summer, the Assembly Hall becomes the venue for all manner of events, including two disco nights to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee.

The Jubilee weekend kicks off on Thursday 2 June with Boogie Wonderland, a ‘70s/’80s disco of soul, funk and disco classics. Saturday 4 June sees a second disco, albeit one that definitely shouldn’t upset the Leading Adele tribute Natalie Black

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neighbours. Billed as ‘the biggest silent disco this Jubilee’, the Royal Disco will feature three DJs providing three very different music channels to tune into. Royal fancy dress is of course, strongly encouraged!

fairs and quiz nights too, there’s plenty to look forward to.

For tickets and details of all events, check the website.

• melkshamassembly.co.uk

Before then though, Matinee Mastermind Neil Sands brings his own Jubilee celebrations to the Hall with his new show Happy & Glorious on 26 May, while one of the UK’s top psychic mediums, Nikki Kitt returns on 20 May. Live music in May comes courtesy of leading Adele tribute Natalie Black whose soulful voice and natural likeness to one of the UK’s biggest contemporary pop stars will leave you wondering if you’ve just seen the real thing. 3 May sees the first monthly tabletop sale to coincide with Melksham’s outdoor market, and with upcoming record

local news

BOA FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

B

radford On Avon Food and Drink Festival will be a real foodie destination over the weekend of the 11 & 12 June at Victory Field. More importantly than ever it aims to celebrate our dedicated local producers. Centre of everything will be a myriad of food and drink experiences, foodie sampling and demonstrations.

artisan producers. Whilst the core of the festival is always about the food and drink it wouldn’t be a festival without live music, kids fun activities (run by Julia’s House Hospice) circus and cookery workshops, plus the celebrated fun dog show by the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

Alongside which will be the everpopular Pop-Up pub by FestivAles

Artisan and Street Food Markets will offer a mix of sweet, savoury, hot, cold, vegan, vegetarian and flavours from around the world.

There is much to choose from including Somerset Charcuterie, Godminster Cheese or Purbeck Ice Cream through to Scout and Sage Distillery and Bristol Cider Company.

Something delicious to suit every taste! There will also be the opportunity to hear from a variety of

featuring local award-winning brews. Then for the shopaholics, Home@BOA is back showcasing lifestyle gifts and kitchenalia.

Advanced booking is open now.

Entrance is £8 per day and £3 for children aged 12 – 16.

• scrumptiousfoodfestivals.co.uk

BOA Food & Drink Festival is a real foodie destination

NEW AT THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM

H

olburne Museum in Bath is excited to announce the opening of a new display of masterpieces of Northern Renaissance painting, on loan for 20 years from the Estate of Bruno Schroder. Though small, this collection consists of paintings of international standing, including major works by artists such as Lucas Cranach the Elder, Hans Holbein

the Elder and Ulrich Apt. Perhaps the most important painting of the group is Hans Burgkmeier’s 1498 portrait of Jakob Fugger and his bride Sybilla Artzt (pictured below left). Known as Fugger the Rich, Jakob Fugger was an Augsburg merchant and banker who was the major financial force behind the Habsburg dynasty.

of the most familiar figures in English history; not least because these instantly recognisable portraits have preserved their likenesses for five centuries.

As well as the nine important paintings, the display includes a rare complete set of Albrecht Dürer’s sixteen engravings illustrating Christ’s Passion.

COMING SOON

LAST CHANCE TO SEE

Hans Burgkmeier’s 1498 portrait of Jakob Fugger and his bride Sybilla Artzt

24 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

THE TUDORS: PASSION, POWER & POLITICS Until 8 May Come face-to-face with the five Tudor monarchs who remain some

MICK PETER: OLD GHOSTS Until 15 May An exhibition of sculptures by artist Mick Peter.

LOVE LIFE: DAVID HOCKNEY DRAWINGS 1963-1977 From 27 May MARVELLOUS MAKERS, WONDROUS WORLDS From 13 May Raised Embroidery from the seventeenth century • holburne.org

Bradford on Avon

FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

of s y a d Twoiciousness! del

IT’S ALL HERE!

POP-UP PUB LIVE MUSIC STREET FOOD MARKET ARTISAN FOOD MEET OUR ARTISANS IN THE FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD TENT FUN DOG SHOW! LOTS FOR KIDS COOKING CLASSES CIRCUS SKILLS

11th & 12th June

Victory Field, Pound Lane, Bradford on Avon Avoid the queues! Get your tickets now from

www.scrumptiousfoodfestivals.co.uk

***LAST CHANCE TO SEE***

food & drink

MEET THE PRODUCERS In the first of a new feature, we speak to some of the local makers behind some of the region's finest produce. First up is JANE LEAR from Lacock Dairy.

L

acock Dairy create luxury gelato ice cream, handmade in Wiltshire using milk from the Selves' Farm dairy herd.

Lovejoys Wholesale is their only wholesale distributors with lots of the pubs, restaurants and hotels they supply using it on their menus and shops stocking it for resale.

Why is Lacock Dairy called gelato and not ice cream and what is the difference between the two?

Gelato is the Italian word for ice cream, but there’s a big difference between the soft, smooth texture and clean taste of gelato compared to traditional ice cream. It comes down to these factors: fat, sugar, air and serving temperature.

Gelato has less fat: it uses more milk than cream – ice cream uses more cream than milk. That also means that you get more flavour and a cleaner mouthfeel with gelato.

Gelato has less air: it is churned more slowly in small

26 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

batches in our Italian Carpigiani machines. Some traditional ice creams made in a factory can have very high levels of air incorporated - it makes it easier to scoop, but it melts quickly -and air is pure profit!

Gelato is usually served at a higher temperature than ice cream (it is best served at -13°C) and it has a super smooth texture. What's more, our gelato has less added sugar: the milk that the Lacock herd produces is very sweet and so we have reduced the amount of added sugar Gelato has a dense, milky texture which is much lighter than

the fat-heavy traditional ice cream.

It also has a more intense flavour as there is less cold fat to coat the tongue, so flavours come through quickly and then melt away leaving a clean mouth. So, you get more pleasure per mouthful with gelato Have you always been interested in gelato?

In eating it, yes! I am a scientist by background though and do not have any

interview

"Gelato is usually served at a higher temperature than ice cream and it has a super smooth texture." food-related industrial experience.

I thought it would be quite simple in comparison to malaria vaccines and genetics - the reality is rather different, as getting a great taste and a great texture at the same time is pretty tricky!

What are your childhood memories of ice cream?

I grew up on a farm in The Weald in Kent where my father grew hops.

We were so excited when the ice cream van managed to find its way down the narrow lanes to us!

When was Lacock Dairy started and what was the idea behind it?

Lacock Dairy was started in 2016.

We are a group of three friends who all love gelato - and one has a dairy herd! Primary producers were seeing big fluctuations in milk prices, so we thought we would have a go at adding value to the milk and selling it

The small but dedicated team behind Lacock Dairy

locally. We also wanted to make something authentic using great ingredients and with some criteria that we considered important: no palm oil, no gluten (Christmas Pudding is an exception), no egg (an allergen), tubs widely recycled and wooden spoons. We offer 4 sizes depending on whether they are for sale in retail or commercial settings - 2 & 4 Litre catering sizes and a 120ml (with spoon) and 500ml tub.

What is your favourite flavour in the Lacock Dairy range?

My favourite is Peanut Butter - it crosses over the sweet/ savoury divide.

What is the most popular flavour in the Lacock Dairy range?

Jane Lear

Honeycomb Crunch is the most popular flavour overall, with Madagascan Vanilla and Cherry Ripple close seconds. Oh and Salted Caramel is not far behind. We now have 17 flavours which include 4 sorbets: Lemon, Peach & Raspberry, Strawberry & Mint and Chocolate.

How do you decide on a new flavour?

That is always a bit random, but as small producers we can offer limited editions to test the market - for example for the festive season we have a Christmas Pudding flavour which is very popular. We also introduced a Sweet Cinnamon recently which is amazing with anything apple - it's my husband’s new favourite. Our new Chocolate Sorbet is pretty delicious too and perfect for anyone who is lactose-intolerant or vegan. We introduced the Strawberry & Mint sorbet to coincide with Wimbledon about 4 years ago and it was such a hit that we added it to the full range.

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 27

food & drink

The Selves' farm dairy herd

Flavours are interesting as there are the ‘Classics’ like our Madagascan Vanilla and Rich Chocolate, and then we have our ‘Marmite’ flavours like Stem Ginger, Peanut Butter and Coffee & Cardamom - some customers are addicted to these!

Do you have any new flavours coming soon?

We have some new flavours on the way - one is a surprise for the Jubilee - so look our for it!

What's the secret to your success do you think?

As in any small team, everyone has a vital role to play, from the production in our kitchen on the farm to the packing and delivering - we all care passionately about producing great gelato!

Where can customers buy your delicious gelato?

28 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Lovejoys are our specialist wholesalers! We also have two pop-up shops that came into being during the pandemic: one at Reybridge in Lacock (SN15 2PF) and the other is at Milk at Mile Elm (SN11 0NE) where we have a vending machine open from 6am to 10pm and you can buy more than our gelato: fresh milk, milk shakes, eggs, butter, cheese, sausages, bacon, potatoes, rape seed oil, cakes and enjoy a coffee at the same time!

Devizes, Ma Cuisine Larkhall, The Arc Climbing Centre, Pound Arts Cafe, Seven Stars Inn Bottlesford, The Rising Sun Lacock, The Bell Lacock, The Who’d a Thought it Lockeridge, The Food Gallery Marlborough, Cafe 25 Bathampton, The Black Horse Cherhill, Ramsbury Brewery, Malmesbury Abbey Cafe, The Salutation Inn Castle Combe, Brydges Place London, Derry Hill Store.

"We have some new flavours on the way - one is a surprise for the Jubilee - so look our for it!"

We are always interested in adding to the list, so please get in touch with us or Lovejoys Wholesale if you would like to become a stockist.

Other outlets include Whitehall Garden Centre, Lacock Bakery, The Rudloe Arms Box, Allington Farm Shop, Thorntons Toy Stores, Cobbs Farm Shops, Walter Rose & Son

• lacockdairy.co.uk

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...

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

Award Winning, Family Run Farm Shop Established for over 40 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open 7 days a week

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

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

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

seasons

food & drink

eat the

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

N

ew season vegetables to look forward to this month, top of the list baby bunch carrots and close behind are broad beans, beetroot and fresh peas. This all adds up to a fantastic selection to go with the asparagus and Jersey or Cornish new potatoes.

Hopefully the weather in May and beyond will be kind for our growers with warm conditions and rain at the right times!

Local herbs have now started and to complement our local watercress; we also have Isle of Wight heritage tomatoes which are a firm favourite, as well as UK cucumbers and lettuce.

price has almost doubled and with the war continuing the hope of normal crops/seasons are a far off dream for the growers in Ukraine I expect. We think of the sunflower growers and all of the other farmers and food producers in Ukraine and how terrible it will be for them to lose their land and livelihoods as well as being so frightened for the safety of themselves and their families.

potatoes or a special potato grow bag. You can also sow this month swede, turnip, beans, peas, squash, pumpkin, carrots cauliflower and carrots. And stay on top of the weeding, it’s very important or you will get swamped by them!

The price of rapeseed oil has also been affected greatly but might open up opportunities for UK farmers who also have to adopt new policies and crops due to high prices of fertilisers (affected by other troubles around the world). I can see that

Neil neil@lovejoyswholesale.com

“I am hopeful we may see a rise in new smaller growers emerging, especially with the popularity of heritage or heirloom vegetables” April was a difficult month for some imported fresh produce, especially tomatoes with a combination of bad weather in Spain, strikes on the French/Spanish border, then IT problems in Dover! Red tape and P&O Ferry problems which some of you have read about did not help at all. A perfect storm you might say (unless you were at sea of course).

We sell a huge range of dairy and dry goods and the awful troubles in Ukraine have hit the cooking oil supply already as they grow a huge volume of sunflowers for oil. The 30 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

the high prices for fertiliser will force farmers into more organic and sustainable practices to cut productions costs.

I am hopeful we may see a rise in new smaller growers emerging, especially with the popularity of heritage or heirloom vegetables and I am sure there is a gap in the market for someone with some land and knowledge.

On your growing plots I hope you managed to plant some early

Have a good month, as always contact me with any questions you might have.

@lovejoysuk @lovejoysuk • lovejoyswholesale.com

recipes

FAKEAWAY NIGHT

This month FRAN STEVENS, aka The Food Wife, shows you how to recreate some classic takeaway dishes at home!

n.b. Steps 1-3 can be done in advance and stored in the fridge. If adding extra protein, stir fry before adding the veg.

Method Mix all the sauce ingredients into a smooth sauce. Set to one side (if making in advance store, sealed in a tub, in the fridge).

In a wok, fry the tofu in vegetable oil over a medium high heat, turning until nicely coloured and slightly crisped. Remove from the pan. Set to one side (if making in advance store, sealed in a tub, in the fridge).

PAD THAI

Serves 2 as a main meal or 4 as a side One of my favourites! The garnishes really make the flavour of this and you can control the heat by adding the chilli to your own taste. If making this gluten-free ensure you the oyster sauce you use is – Lee Kum Kee do one.

You can easily scale this recipe up, and add any extra protein you like; prawns or chicken work well. You can make the sauce up in advance of the final cooking the dish, the same goes for the frying of the tofu and the egg.

Doing so makes the final cooking quick and easy.

✃

Ingredients For the sauce: 3 tbsp fish sauce 2 ½ tbsp oyster sauce (gluten-free if required) 2 ½ tbsp tamarind purée

4 ½ tbsp packed/heaped light soft brown sugar For the stir fry: 2 handfuls of stir fry veg of your choice (onion/pepper/baby corn/ carrot ribbons work well) 3 handfuls of bean sprouts 225g firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes 2 eggs, beaten 200g wide flat rice noodles, cooked according to the packet instructions (then run through with cold water to stop them from sticking. You could also add a few drops of sesame oil to help keen them separate too) For the garnish: 1 lime cut into wedges Fresh coriander leaves Crushed chilli flakes Crushed roasted peanuts

In the same wok, using the residual oil, scramble the eggs and cook until it is in dry pieces. Remove from the pan. Set to one side (if making in advance store, sealed in a tub, in the fridge).

If you have done steps 1-3 in advance remove from the fridge 20 minutes before cooking to allow them to come up to room temperature.

Heat a little oil in the wok over a high heat. Stir fry the vegetables, moving them about the pan. Add the cooked rice noodles and keep tossing or stirring them, then add the fried tofu, egg and sauce, keep tossing everything so that it is all is coated in the sauce and heated through.

Once everything is piping hot, serve, with fresh coriander, wedges of lime, crushed peanuts and chilli flakes.

Delicious.

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 31

recipes To garnish (optional): Coriander leaves Sesame seeds Crispy onions (I buy ones ready fried) Method Prepare all the ingredients so you are ready to cook. Next, heat 2 tbsp of oil on a high heat in a wok.

For the sauce: 2 lemons (juice and zest) 3 tbsp soy sauce (gf if required) 1 tsp sesame oil 3 tsp sugar 400ml veg stock (gf/vg as required) Salt and Pepper

Method Mix the corn flour and ground white pepper together in an bowl. Heat some oil in a wok (the base of the Add the corn flour and stir to coat the wok should be coated in a layer of oily beef. oil a couple of mm deep), and when hot, coat the pieces of tofu in the Add the garlic, ginger and chilli (if flour mix and carefully add to the hot using) and stir.

Add the spring onion and carrot and stir. oil. Make sure each piece is making Serves 2 -3 full contact with the oil. Allow to get Add the sugar, dark soy sauce, rice One of the first things I learned to cook wine vinegar and sesame oil, then stir really crispy (but not burning) before turning and cooking on all sides. This as a child was Sweet & Sour Chicken. so everything is coated. will take 15-20 minutes. Then remove Granted, it was initially a jar of Uncle the crispy tofu and leave to one side.

Ben’s, but I soon progressed to making Stir fry for 2-3 minutes, by which time the meat should be cooked through The bowl of leftover corn flour can my own sauce with the help of my and the vegetables al dente. have a little cold water added to it to mum’s cookbooks.

Serve with rice and add the garnishes, thicken the sauce later.

Nowadays I appreciate something with a bit more flavour; I still love sweet if you are using. I’d also recommmend Return the wok to the heat, add a a few prawn crackers on the side. little more oil and then add the onion, and sour, but this is punchier and pepper, ginger and garlic. Stir fry for sticky from the cornflour and scant a few minutes and then add the soy sauce. I make it with beef skirt, it’s a sauce, lemon zest and juice, followed cheaper cut but flavoursome, and suits Serves 2-3 by the hot vegetable stock and corn being cut into thin strips. This dish is I absolutely love lemon chicken and flour mix. Give everything a good stir. so quick to cook – once you start it in here is my vegan version, which is so so the wok it’ll be ready to serve in about Cook out for a few minutes and then good even if I say so myself! five minutes, so preparation is key. add the sesame oil, sugar and a pinch Cooking the tofu until it goes all crispy each of salt and pepper to taste.

Have everything ready (it should only take about 10 minutes to prepare) and is a must, you won’t be disappointed Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and by spending the time to create these follow my steps in quick succession cook for a couple more minutes and nuggets of yumminess It’s also worth and hey presto, dinner is ready! then serve with rice and, if you like, pressing the tofu to remove as much Ingredients stir fried green vegetables such as water as you can before cooking too.

2 inch piece of ginger, peeled and pak choi.

Ingredients finely diced • thefoodwife.co.uk 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely diced For the tofu: 300g firm tofu, cut into pieces about 1 chilli (optional), finely diced 1cm by 2cm 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced 4 tbsp corn flour thinly on the diagonal Pinch of ground white pepper 3 spring onions sliced diagonally Vegetable oil 250g beef skirt cut into thin strips For the stir fry: 2 tbsp dark soy sauce Vegetable oil 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 onion, large dice 1 tsp sugar 2 cloves of garlic, finely sliced 1 tsp sesame oil 2 inches of ginger, julienned or grated 2 tbsp oil 1 pepper, large dice 1 heaped tbsp corn flour Add the meat and quickly stir to stop it sticking.

CHINESE BEEF WITH GINGER

32

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

✃

LEMON TOFU

✃

Beanacre, Nr Melksham Wiltshire SN12 7PU

tel 01225 703700

Enjoy a fabulous Sunday lunch Served every Sunday 12noon - 2.30pm

Our Sunday lunch menu is carefully prepared using local suppliers and home grown vegetables and herbs from our kitchen garden Private Dining also available | Booking recommended

Delicious afternoon teas served daily

reception@beechfieldhouse.co.uk

THE

WESTBROOK

beechfieldhouse.co.uk

Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2EE

tel 01380 850418

www.westbrookbromham.co.uk

WELCOME TO OUR AWARD-WINNING, FAMILY-RUN PUB! Kevin & Louise invite you to visit The Westbrook. The menu is bursting with superb value traditional pub classics and top notch specials.

We also offer vegan, vegetarians and gluten free options.

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

OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY

food & drink

MEET THE CHEF

MATT MANNS, head chef at The Three Daggers in Edington, talks about mastering a cheese souffle, building chocolate rollercoasters and sharing a dram or two of whiskey with friends.

What was your first job in catering?

My first ever catering job was as a kitchen porter at a restaurant on Bournemouth pier when I was 16.

Matt Manns

Where have you worked previously?

Most recently at the Museum Inn, a country pub in north Dorset, well known for its local game.

What was the first dish you mastered?

The first dish I properly perfected would have been a cheese souffle. I still use the same recipe today.

Where do you source your produce and do you have any favourite local suppliers?

We use Walter Rose & Sons for our meat and Lovejoys for our veg.

Lovejoys is a fantastic wholesaler sourcing the best produce from local farms within as little as a 15 mile radius.

What is your personal favourite dish from your menu?

My favourite dish would be the pan fried cod with braised beans and chorizo. It's a simple dish that packs in so much flavour.

What is the most memorable event you have cooked for?

I once did a cooking demonstration at Thorpe park, building chocolate rollercoasters for a corporate event.

Finally, if there was one piece of advice you could give to someone who wanted to start a career as a chef, what would it be?

Be passionate, learn and absorb as much as you can and stick at it. There will be days where you When you cook for friends, what’s want to give up but keep pushing on the menu? and eventually you’ll have enough Something simple and flavourful knowledge to be running a kitchen that we can share like tapas or fajitas. of your own!

What is your favourite tipple?

To book a table at The Three Daggers I’m a big whiskey fan and love to call 01380 830940. share a glass or two with friends. My favourite is King Alexander III Dalmore. • threedaggers.co.uk Which local pubs and restaurants do you like visiting?

The George & Dragon in Laverstock is great and Mother & Wild in Corsham do fantastic pizza!!

Matt's menu uses the best local produce

34 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Your favourite kitchen gadget?

A thermomix - it’s great for making purees, gels and emulsions that can really elevate your dishes.

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

THE WILTSHIRE YEOMAN Serving local ales, delicious home cooked breakfasts and traditional Sunday lunches.

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

For our latest events, including live bands, please see our Facebook page or website.

Tel 01225 765370

Chilmark Road, Trowbridge, BA14 9DD

The Three Daggers

The Three Daggers is an award-winning, great British inn - an exceptional spot to eat, sleep & unwind.

PUB | FARM SHOP | RESTAURANT | INN Brewery bar available for private hire Westbury Road, Edington, Wiltshire BA13 4PG 01380 830 940 | threedaggers.co.uk

Wiltshire Inns features two historic town centre properties that both offer character and charm alongside a warm friendly welcome.

Both hotels are ideal for business travellers, leisure travellers and families and dogs are welcome. Coach parties are also welcome with prior arrangement.

The Swan Hotel is a charming grade II listed coaching inn located in Bradford on Avon near Bath.

Known locally for its traditional pub food and selection of ales, The Swan is also home to The Thai Chilli Restaurant renowned for serving mouth-watering authentic Thai cuisine and pub classics 7 days a week. It is open for breakfast from 8am and serves food all day until 9pm.

The Swan also offers 12 stylish and well-appointed rooms making it the ideal place to stay when visiting Wiltshire or Bath.

theswanbradford

_theswanhotel

www.theswanbradford.co.uk

This gorgeous 14th centure coaching inn has 16 comfortable en suite rooms, each furnished to a high standard and equipped with the little extras that make your stay a trully memorable one.

There is a selection of bedrooms ranging from doubles to superior family rooms, each offering outstanding comfort for short or long stays in Warminster.

The hotel also boasts a pub, bar and The Thai Chilli Restaurant, where our team of Thai chefs serve up delicious homemade Thai food alongside the pub’s traditional menu.

oldbellwarminster

oldbellwarminster

www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk

The

Farmhouse

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

INN

LYN & ANDY HOBBS WELCOME YOU TO THE RISING SUN We are a traditional country pub offering tasty homemade food, real ales & ciders

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR THE JUBILEE WEEKEND! • Beer garden • Homemade food served daily • Local real ales & ciders • Gluten free menu • Steak deal • Traditional Sunday roast • Takeaways • Live music • Large car park • Open 7 days a week 61 Woodmarsh, North Bradley, Trowbridge BA14 0SB 01225 776545 therisingsun-northbradley.co.uk

f

Adam, Janet and all the staff look forward to welcoming you to The Farmhouse.

We offer tasty homecooked food, superb real ales & fine wines in stylish, comfortable surroundings.

We’re an ideal venue for weddings & events with our large, beautifully-appointed function room.

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

• Wadworth Real Ales • Covered & Heated Beer Garden • Takeaway service • Children & Dog Friendly • Gluten Free & Coeliac Menu Available • Large Car Park • Homemade Smaller Portions from £7.50 • B&B Accommodation

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

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

f

@HOME with Perfect Rooms WE PROVIDE:

• Home Furnishings • Gifts • Home Accessories • Antiques • Furniture • Lamps • Cushions • Made to Measure Curtains & Blinds • Paints & Wallpapers • Fabric Remnants • Room Rugs Whatever your vision, we have the perfect finishing touch, whether that is a unique antique, or a home accessory.

Visit us at: 26 Bath Road Melksham SN12 6LP • tel 01225 899200 Also at Perfect Rooms: Silver Street, Gastard SN13 9PY • tel 01249 716445

w: www.perfectrooms.co.uk e: interiors@perfectrooms.co.uk

ftip

image © Pete Helme Photography

house & home

HOUSE WORK

Whether you need some simple improvements or want to overhaul large areas of your home, our guide is filled with skilled local experts so you can find the right people for the job.

Stephen Graver offers the finest quality craftsmanship in all their projects

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 39

house & home

FURNISHING & INTERIORS

exceptional interior design doesn’t happen through chance.

AXFORD INTERIORS

Axford Interiors offers various levels of advice depending on what you need. From a full room layout and designs to mood boards and colour schemes, to a collection of fabric and wallpaper samples and a bit of advice to finish the room. It usually always begins with a cup of tea and a chat!

Home visits Lara Willmore from Axford Interiors has over 15 years of interior design experience. If you are considering revamping your home but don’t know where to start, if you have plenty of ideas but no idea of how to pull it all together she can help. :Often it comes down to function and practicality – is your home working for you as best it can?” She says, “When you hire an Interior designer, their main aim is to assist you in bringing your ideas together for you to achieve the solution you want while also considering budget.”

While the process can seem daunting, they will use their experience and trusted contacts to get you to the end point quicker, take away the stress or time-consuming web browsing and effectively hold your hand through the creative process!

Redesigning a room should be a positive experience, Axford Interiors can help you improve the look and functionality of your home

07749 707056 | axfordgroup.com

ELITE BEDS & MATTRESSES

Silver Street, Gastard At Perfect Rooms & Interiors, they take pride in their reputation for quality, hand crafted work, and great customer service. Established

by Sue Coleman, who has over 30 years’ industry experience, they have expanded from tailor-made soft furnishings to home accessories, wall coverings, flooring, furniture supply and an inhouse upholstery and furniture making service. They also

1&2 Windsor Drive, Devizes Elite Beds and Mattresses has a wide selection of beds, mattresses and bedroom furniture for sale at the lowest prices.

Elite’s sales staff have over 15 years’ experience providing expert advice to help you get the best bed for your budget. Meanwhile, their buyers ensure they stock top quality ranges including Hypnos and Dormeo, providing the best possible comfort at the most competitive price.

As a bed specialist, Elite has a wide variety of products to choose from, whether you’re after a new mattress, an ottoman sofa for your living room or a racecar shaped bed for your little one. You can buy from the showroom in Devizes or online, and they even offer FREE next day delivery on hundreds of beds, mattresses and designer furniture.

The showroom is open Monday Saturday 9am to 5pm and evenings and Sundays by appointment.

01380 887943 | elitebedsandmattressesdirect.co.uk

"Elite’s sales staff have over 15 years’ experience providing expert advice to help you get the best bed for your budget."

40 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

PERFECT ROOMS & INTERIORS

Perfect Rooms specialise in great soft furnishings

supply furniture brands Whitehead Designs and Vincent Sheppard and top lighting brands.

Perfect Rooms speciality in soft furnishings includes tailor made curtains and blinds, made in their own local workroom. They stock a number of branded fabrics, wallpapers and paints in their Gastard showroom, near Melksham and Corsham, and they co-ordinate with trusted tradespeople to provide decorating, flooring and carpentry services. Whether a small or full interiors project, they can help. The showroom also incorporates business Inspirational Bathrooms, Bedrooms and Kitchens so they really can cater for all your home improvement needs.

01249 716445 | perfectrooms.co.uk

...thanks for shopping local

fti

LOVING YOUR SUPPORT...

GREAT DEALS THROUGHOUT 2022!

01985 847031 • sofacoplus@yahoo.co.uk • sofaco.co.uk • 15 George St, Warminster, BA12 8QA

house & home

SOFA CO PLUS

15 George Street, Warminster Sofa Co is an independent boutique furniture store established by Tom O’Hare in Warminster in late 2009.

Since then it has established a reputation for supplying top quality sofas from some of the finest manufacturers in the UK, Europe and South Africa. There are beautiful UK built sofas, stunning leather sofas from South Africa and funky colourful designs from Spanish manufacturer Fama.

As well as sofas, you can also expect to find mirrors, lighting, throws and cushions plus they are now displaying a solid oak dining range and some exclusive pieces of artwork; offered in amazing colours to will brighten any room. Now is an ideal time to pop in and take a look – Tom will put the kettle on!

01985 847031 | sofaco.co.uk

"As well as sofas, you can also expect to find mirrors, lighting, throws and cushions"

Sofa Co Plus

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & BEDROOMS

pride ourselves on our customer service, helping customers with any plumbing advice they need. The showroom helps gives people ideas for how they can transform their bathroom or cloakroom, and our staff are also on hand if customers want any tips or advice on their design. We also offer free local delivery.”

01225 765000 | activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk

BATHROOMS AT NO. 5

5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon When it comes to innovation and stunning design, Bradford on Avon’s Bathrooms at No. 5 offers all you could possibly need all under one roof. The company, which has been established for over 10 years, has a boutique style showroom that combines a fantastic range of products with a warm, professional service and innovative approach to bathroom design and installation.

They can provide everything from a new mixer tap to the most contemporary bathrooms and wet rooms, all the while offering expert knowledge, guidance and advice throughout the process.

With the latest collections from Villeroy & Boch, Catalano and GSI

ACTIVE PLUMBING SUPPLIES

Riverway Industrial Estate, Trowbridge Active Plumbing Supplies specialises in supplying plumbing products for trade and retail customers, stocking anything to do with bathrooms and heating.

As well as supplying everything from showers, baths and sinks to radiators and toilets, Active Plumbing Supplies also offers advice to customers unsure about how they want to design their bathroom.

Manager Martyn Johnson said, “We 42 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Bathrooms at No. 5 offers beautiful bathrooms from brands like Villeroy & Boch

Bathrooms, both contemporary and traditional tastes are comfortably catered for. And once you’ve settled on your perfect design, their expert in-house installation team will ensure it is fitted with minimum fuss, yet with the maximum care and expertise.

01225 309110 | bathroomsatno5.co.uk

CHEVERELL OF DEVIZES

Hopton Park, Waller Road, Devizes Cheverell was founded in 1989 by cabinet maker Neil Straker, as a one-man operation. Now, over 30 years later, the company has a stunning showroom and state-of-the-art workshop in Devizes and a highly skilled team of designers and craftsmen.

Cheverell don’t do pre-pack one-sizefits-all; every project they undertake, be it a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or studio, is bespoke, interpreting each client’s requirements to produce unique spaces that work beautifully within their environments.

Their Devizes showroom is inspirational, and the ideal place to begin visualising your perfect space.

There is a large selection of work

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

***MENTION THIS AD FOR AN EXTRA 5% OFF YOUR BATHROOM QUOTE!!*** OPEN TO RETAIL & TRADE SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY BATHROOMS & BATHROOM PRODUCTS

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

FIND LUXURY BATHROOMS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES 01225 765000

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

www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk

house & home

STEPHEN GRAVER Stephen Graver designs, builds and installs beautiful, individual interiors.

Here he offers 5 tips on making the most of your first consultation...

1. Think about what inspires you Bring along your inspiration to give us an idea of the design, colours and textures you like. If you’ve no know, don’t worry! Our first meeting will find out more about what you like and how you want to use the living space and then guide you through potential styles, colours and textures to create your vision.

2. Have an open mind It’s great to have ideas and a vision for your space. We encourage you to be a part of the process as much (or as little) as you want to be. Our job is to listen to you and provide unique solutions that are tailored around your lifestyle and needs.

3. The b-word Consider your budget before you arrive and be open about it! This is absolutely not to give us a target to work towards, but so that designers don’t waste your time with products that don’t fit your needs.

4. Textures and colours Think about your current home décor, furniture and even your clothes. Do you see bright colours and clean lines? Or do you see warm tones, natural materials and classic themes? To complement your existing palette or establish a space that evolves where you can be braver and bolder in your choices to really make a statement?

5. Making every day easier Think about the little things that would help to make your day flow more smoothly and how it influences your appliance or design choices. Consider what ‘challenges’ you want to resolve and let your designer consider the solutions.

• stephengraver.com 44 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

on display so you can look at styles, materials, colours and finishes and talk to their experienced designers about your project.

On the same site as the showroom is the workshop, where all their kitchens and furniture are handmade using traditional and modern joinery techniques with the finest quality materials, fixtures and fittings. Their craftsmen hand select materials to bring together the components that are needed for each project, giving you a finish that is second to none.

01380 722722 | cheverell.co.uk

"All their kitchens & furniture are handmade using traditional & modern joinery techniques with the finest quality materials" Cheverell of Devizes

FORMOSA Ham Green, Holt Formosa offers a full design, supply and installation service with a friendly, knowledgeable and personal approach. Owner Natasha Allin and her right-hand man Nick Coombes can guide you through the process of designing and creating the room of your dreams from start to finish.

Between them they have more than 50 years' industry experience and share a passion for design.

With a stunning showroom in Holt, between Bradford on Avon and Melksham, Formosa has the necessary experience and tools to create the perfect kitchen, bathroom or bedroom with you, no matter your budget or style. They work with top UK brands like Crown Imperial, Crown Lifestyle and System Six (which includes Quantum, Aluma and Elegance). When it comes to bathrooms they stock Ideal Standard, Villeroy & Boch Express, Novellini

Formosa offers a full design, supply and installation service

shower enclosures and baths, Adamsez baths, HIB bathroom units and accessories, and many others.

They can also help with flooring, stocking both Karndean vinyl flooring and Villeroy & Boch tiles. You’ll find examples of all these companies’ ranges on display within the showroom, and they also have a large range of samples to help with those all-important finishing details.

01225 308541 | formosakbb.co.uk

HOMEMAKER

5-6 George Street, Warminster Homemaker is a family owned independent company supplying kitchens and electrical appliances from all the major manufacturers from their shops in Warminster and Shaftesbury. As an independent Homemaker pride themselves on giving good reliable local service to their customers at very competitive prices. As well as stocking a great range of top appliances, Homemaker is probably best known their British made kitchens by Quantum as well as their Hacker Kitchens, custom made in Germany. The latest solid quartz, acrylic and timber worktops are stocked too. If you are looking for a change but need some ideas as

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

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

house & home to what you could do, or even if you know exactly what you are looking for, pop into their newly refurbished showroom in Warminster to take a look around.

01985 219200 | myhomemaker.co.uk

"As specialist stonemasons, PM Bines are equally at home working in marble, granite, quartz and sintered stone"

PM BINES

Lower Farm, Broughton Gifford Based in Broughton Gifford, PM Bines Ltd is a specialist stonemason that has been helping customers transform their kitchens, bathrooms and fire surrounds since 1985. A family run, locally-based firm, a large amount of their work comes from the immediate area, but such is the quality of what is on offer, PM Bines’ skills are in demand across the country.

As specialist stonemasons, PM Bines are equally at home working in marble, granite, quartz and sintered stone for beautiful kitchen worktops, bathroom interiors, memorial stonework’s, fireplaces and a wide range of other unique pieces, with materials from Britain, Ireland and beyond used to ensure the finest finishes.

Tile House is Warminster's independent bathroom outlet

46 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Amtico Eden Oak, available at Allsop Carpets

Whatever you have in mind, give PM Bines a call or email marble. bines@btconnect.com and they can invite you in for a chat about your requirements.

01225 782888 | pmbines.co.uk

TILE HOUSE

Silver Street, Warminster Since opening its doors almost 2 years ago, Tile House has established itself as one of Warminster’s favourite house and home outlets. The family run bathroom and tile showroom, situated on Silver Street, has been designed to offer inspiration through an extensive range of bathroom furniture and sanitaryware to suit all budgets and tastes from traditional to contemporary. The full installation service takes away the hassle of coordinating tradespeople and trusted brands including Atlanta, Armera, Eco, Heritage, Roca and Scudo mean new bathroom choices can be made with confidence.

The added benefit of a choice of quality floor and wall tiles from Porcelanosa, Minoli and others allows the customer to realise their bathroom dreams under one roof.

There is parking to the front of the showroom and a collection point to the rear. Tile House offers a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere in which to discuss your vision, as well as the latest in CAD software so

you can envisage what your finished bathroom will look like.

01985 804745 | fb.com/tilehouse.warminster

CARPETS & FLOORING

ALLSOP CARPETS

Corner Garage, Christchurch Street West, Frome During the last 30 years, Allsop Carpets & Flooring has strived to deliver the highest quality and service as well as first class fitting with their own team of polite and friendly fitters. Through the years their commitment to their clients has led to a loyal customer base branching throughout the South West. So, whether you want a cosy carpet for your bedroom, or a sleek looking laminate for your living room, pop into their Frome showroom and you’ll find an extensive range of flooring including wood, laminate, sisal, coir, wool and synthetic carpets as well as rugs and remnants. You will find them at Corner Garage, Christchurch Street West (within Tonemar Express Beds).

01373 463866 | allsopcarpets.co.uk

ZERO DRY TIME

Home Visits Zero Dry Time specialises in cleaning carpets and hard floors, making your home a clean, green and stain free environment. Their cleaning

Allsop Carpets & Flooring

Cormar Apollo Comfort in Earl Grey

• Carpets • Vinyl • Naturals • Wood Flooring

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

Using British Manufacturers & Suppliers

house & home solutions are designed to minimize drying time and maximizing your time to enjoy your home.

business built on recommendation.

For a free no obligation quotation call Edward today.

01380 830769 / 07932 640996

Zero Dry Time dry clean carpets with a solution that is safe for your family, pets and allergy sufferers. It’s great for removing stains and once finished will be ready for immediate use. Their deep clean can also lift carpet piles, making them feel like new again!

They move your furniture (so you don’t have to) clean, and then move it back straight away. Your carpets are left DRY, deodorised, sanitised and smelling fresh. They are also able to clean all the other floors in your home and offer a fantastic wooden floor restoration service that doesn’t require sanding.

Alternatively, it may be your furniture that could do with a spring spruce up. Zero Dry Time can help with upholstery too. Their cleaning system works on all manner of fabrics, including leather, and is also designed to dry almost immediately, so you don’t have to wait to use your furniture again. Call free on 0800 180 4116 for a free no obligation quote. nick.coyle@zerodrytime.com

WINDOWS & DOORS

HARPER’S BLINDS

Home visits Edward Harper first opened the doors to Harpers back in 1964, first in Westbury and later in Trowbridge.

Over 50 years later and he is offering a complete home service with free measuring and fitting and samples supplied. They have a huge range of fabrics available to choose from and offer all kinds of blind options from Roller and Venetian to expertly made Roman blinds and curtains.

They even offer Perfect Fit options, and with 50 years in the business, are true experts in their field – this is a 48 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

NEW WINDOWS

Station Road, Warminster With energy prices soaring there has never been a better time to organise the replacement of faulty or leaky windows and doors. By replacing single glazed windows and doors with energy efficient glazing you could save hundreds of pounds a year on your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, make your home less draughty and insulate your home against unwanted outside noise.

With over 25 years of continuous service, New Windows has a long-standing reputation for providing high quality products, all manufactured in the UK to a high specification. As well as installing top quality replacement windows, they are also specialists in conservatories, orangeries and contemporary bi-fold doors. What’s more, their team of expert fitters are all trained craftsmen and provide a friendly and professional service - tidily and without fuss.

Based in Warminster, New Windows serves West Wiltshire, Bath and most of the South West. Call to arrange a free no obligation quote.

01985 215566 | newwindowsltd.co.uk

SHUTTERCRAFT

Home Visits Shuttercraft Somerset makes light work of transforming your home with premium made-to-measure shutters and blinds. They are trusted to provide a friendly, dependable service throughout Bath, Frome and West Wilts. With a huge variety full customisable colours and styles, visit their website to view a gallery of inspiration for your home.

Shutters can transform the look of a room

Shutters can transform the look of your space, and work brilliantly in any room. They are fantastic in period properties to make the most of beautiful sash windows and can flawlessly enhance a bay window as well as being a stunning feature in its own right. Give them a call to book a free, no obligation home appointment. Their experts will discuss your options and provide you with a competitive quote for your consideration.

01225 941016 | shuttercraft.co.uk

BUILDING, DIY & MAINTENANCE

BROWNS HARDWARE

30 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon If you need something for the home or garden this spring then head to Browns, Bradford on Avon’s independent hardware store. Don’t let its size deceive you, they have everything you need in store and if they don't they will try to get it for you! From paint to pruning shears and bird seed Browns’ will do their best to help you and they carry all the top brands too. And when you do pop in, you’ll be supporting a local independent business too.

01225 862236 | brownshardware.co.uk

DAVIES OF WESTBURY

24 Edward Street, Westbury If you are busy with DIY this spring then head to Davies of Westbury.

BLINDS & CURTAINS Expertly made to measure

FREE MEASURING FREE FITTING

We Offer:

• A large choice of quality fabrics • Vertical - Roller - Venetian - Roman Wood Venetian Blinds etc • Curtains expertly made to measure • Curtain poles & tracks supplied + fitted • Unbeatable DISCOUNTED PRICES • Over 50 years’ experience

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 FREE DELIVERY TO WESTBURY & SURROUNDS

Phone Edward Harper without obligation

01380 830769 / 07932 640996 sales@harpersblinds.co.uk

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harpersblinds64

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

24 Edward Street, Westbury, BA13 3BD

Tel 01373 822431

www.daviesofwestbury.co.uk

house & home A family run business, they are celebrating 40 years this year so are very experienced serving the local community. Their DIY department is fully stocked; if you are redecorating they have a large range of wellknown brands such as Stanley, Harris and Dulux as well budget decorating supplies and a range of Weathershield, gloss and satinwood.

If you are improving the garden they keep a wide variety of gardening products to suit your every need including high quality brands like Wilkinson Sword or Faithfull.

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

0845 291 6015 | daviesofwestbury.co.uk

EJ SHANLEY & SON

Home Delivery If you are having work done on your home or garden, consider giving EJ Shanley & Son a call to see about a skip. A family run business for over 50 years, they can provide you with a reliable and professional skip hire service. Their extensive range of skips mean they can accommodate any request for waste removal.

They have a huge fleet of lorries and a large selection of skips and compactor bins for hire, as well as roll-on roll-off bins, a car breakers yard and a metal reclamation centre.

01225 753333 / 01985 213348 | ejshanley.co.uk

HOWARD ROOFING

Home Visits Howard Roofing offers a professional, reliable and friendly service. They have over 10 years’ experience repairing and re-roofing traditional and modern roofs and specialise in residential roofing projects including leadwork, rubber roofing and guttering, working with 50 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

P F Parsons can help with all types of building work

natural slate and stone as well as modern roofing tiles.

Based in Box, Howard Roofing operates throughout West Wiltshire.

Whatever the size of your job, get in touch for a free assessment and quotation without obligation.

07812 093962 | howardroofing.co.uk

PF PARSONS LTD

Wylye Road, Hindon P F Parsons Ltd Building Contractors have been established for 36 years.

The company carries out all types of building work including new builds, extensions and refurbishments, property maintenance, garden rooms, conservatories and patios.

SOVEREIGN DAMP & TIMBER LTD

Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Corsham Sovereign Damp Proof & Timber Ltd is based in Corsham and has been providing services throughout the South West since 1981. Established for 40 years, they are renowned for their high quality of workmanship and reliability.

Sovereign offer injected damp proof courses, timber treatments including beetle infestation, wet rot and dry rot treatments, basement waterproofing (including Delta membrane systems) and general maintenance.

If you are looking to invest in your home then give P F Parsons Ltd a call to discuss your project.

Whether you want an extension or conservatory with doors that open out onto a beautiful new patio, new kitchen or bathroom or just update your property do contact P F Parsons Ltd to discuss your ideas.

They have an extensive portfolio available to provide inspiration and it can always be viewed on their website.

They also offer re-plastering services - including lime based plastering approved by Listed Buildings and English Heritage, which makes it perfect for use on the beautiful old properties you find in the local area. It comes as no surprise that both the National Trust and Crown Estates feature on their list of regular clients, as well as local authorities, estate and lettings agents, housing associations and architects as well as the general public.

01747 820422 | pfparsons.co.uk

01249 716161 | sovereigndpc.co.uk

E.J. SHANLEY & SON [TROWBRIDGE] LTD HOUSE OR GARDEN IN NEED OF A GOOD CLEAROUT?

CALL US TODAY!

CALL TROWBRIDGE OR WARMINSTER

01225 753333 / 01985 213348 43 Shails Lane, Trowbridge 43 Copheap Lane, Warminster

www.ejshanley.co.uk

WILTSHIRE‘S LEADER IN SKIP HIRE

We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, - RISING DAMP basement waterproofing, timber - TIMBERand INFESTATION treatment specialist replastering.

- DRY & WET ROT TREATMENTS - PLASTERING - BASEMENT WATERPROOFING - RENOVATIONS

T: 01225 811222 www.sovereigndpc.co.uk E: info@sovereigndpc.co.uk

Find us on

Howard Roofing For All Your Roofing Needs

Qualified Roofer Offering...

• Tiling • Stone Slate • Natural Slate • Leadwork • Repairs

Mob: 07812 093962 DeneHowardRoofing@gmail.com Based in Box, Wiltshire

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

01747 820422

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

www.howardroofing.co.uk

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

house & home

STE: SECURITY IN THE SPOTLIGHT MIKE DEW, director at STE, talks about how his Wiltshire-based family firm can help with your home or commercial security.

W

e started our journey back in 2011 to help our local community secure their homes, businesses, farms and construction sites. Since its formation STE has listened closely and paid attention to our customers' needs by providing help and advice for bespoke security and safety requirements. We have consistently provided the most up-to-date innovative security technology to hundreds of clients around the UK, both preventing and detecting potentially costly acts of theft and vandalism.

STE provides security solutions for homes and business premises

"Our priority is to provide you with pioneering A PROVEN APPROACH products at affordable prices!"

As a small, family run firm we work differently to large multi nationals.

Our priority is to provide you with pioneering products at affordable prices! We have security expertise dating back to 1980 and our skilful team really care about what they do. By working closely with our electronic engineers we find the right solution for every customers' requirements.

SECURITY SOLUTIONS We have a wide range of security and safety products available from door entry intercoms to CCTV and everything in-between.

It is unfortunately the case that security is often an afterthought, only considered after a breakin or robbery happens.

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THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

We can help prevent and deter criminal activity with systems that are affordable and scalable to the requirements of your property.

As well as being state-of-the-art, all our systems are also easy to use and can be controlled and viewed via a mobile phone app, tablet or PC so you can view any cameras and receive notifications wherever you are in the world, 24 hours a day.

TALK TO US Wherever you are, we can reach you to give help and advice - we even offer a free no obligation security health check for your home or business. Our team prides itself on great customer service; our staff are here to ensure they always meet your expectations. To find out more give us a call on 01225 781992 or email us at info@ste.eu.com.

• ste.eu.com

gardens

GARDEN JOBS

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

1. Watch out for late frosts. Protect tender plants Frost can affect many plants, and is particularly damaging to tender new growth and blossom in the spring. The risks of frost damage can be reduced by taking some simple steps to protect the plants in your garden.

2. Earth up potatoes and promptly plant any still remaining Potato plants need ‘earthing up’ as they grow, to protect early shoots from frost damage and ensure the developing potatoes aren’t exposed to light, which turns them green and poisonous.

3. Plant out summer bedding at the end of the month Bedding plants provide a temporary decorative seasonal display for beds, borders, containers and hanging baskets.

4. Water early and late to get the most out of your water, recycle water when possible Water is a limited and valuable resource, but is also essential for plant growth.

To make the most of water, collect what you can rather than use tap water. Store and use it safely.

Mow your lawn weekly to keep it healthy

5. Regularly hoe off weeds Run a hoe over a bed or between rows to kill most weed seedlings. Choose a dry day so seedlings dry out on the surface rather than re-root into moist soil.

is an important part of maintaining a healthy lawn. The cutting height and mowing frequency will depend on the look you want to achieve, whether it be a close-cut ‘classic’ lawn or longer-grassed wildlife lawn.

6. Open greenhouse vents and doors on warm days Greenhouses can get very hot very quickly and can easily kill off fragile young plants.

8. Check for nesting birds before clipping hedges Now is a good time to clip hedges to maintain their shape but be sure to check for nesting birds before you start.

7. Mow lawns weekly – but consider leaving some areas uncut for wildlife A good mowing regime Plant out summer bedding once the risk of frost has passed

9. Lift and divide overcrowded clumps of daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs Dig them up after flowering, split into smaller groups and replant to establish new colonies. New clumps should settle in quickly and flower the following year.

10. Watch out for viburnum beetle and lily beetle grubs Viburnum beetle overwinters as eggs and these hatch in late April-early May. Check susceptible plants frequently from spring onwards so action can be taken before a damaging population has developed.

56 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

BROWNS HARDWARE Bradford on Avon’s independent hardware store

PURVEYORS OF...

• HOUSEWARES • GARDENING • CLEANING PRODUCTS • TOOLS • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • DECORATING & DIY Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 16:00 30 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JX Tel 01225 862236 brownshardwarelimited

f

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE HERE

HUGE SELECTION OF TREES & SHRUBS

BEAUTIFUL PLANTS 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

www.the-nursery.co.uk

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

gardens

GOING WILD FOR CHELSEA

Wild plants and naturalistic designs are set to take centre stage at the 2022 RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW, which runs from 24-28 May.

R

HS Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by The Newt in Somerset, returns to its usual May slot in the gardening year with more than 30 gardens, many highlighting the importance of sustainability and the natural environment.

Garden designers will be using plants that promote biodiversity including flowering hawthorn, hazel, and woodland trees such as crab apple, sweet chestnut and hornbeam.

Sarah Eberle's MEDITE SMARTPLY Building The Future Garden

"Multi-award winning Sarah Eberle returns

First-time designers Lulu Urquhart to RHS Chelsea with her MEDITE SMARTPLY and Adam Hunt are using native Building the Future Garden, another British plants to showcase a naturally naturalistic design using edge-of-forest plants." re-wilded landscape following the Damp-loving, rare and wild species eyes to the important role of soil reintroduction of beavers in south and trees native to Southern Ireland in supporting life and mitigating west England. will feature prominently. negative impacts of climate change, while brothers Howard and Hugh A Rewilding Britain Landscape The Meta Garden: Growing the Miller return for their second RHS features a meandering brook Future will focus on the connection Chelsea, designing a space with through hawthorn, hazel and field between plants and fungi in our Alder Hey Children’s Charity. maples leading to a pool created woodland ecosystems and the role by the beavers. This sits above a of nature-based solutions.

This garden weaves together green meadow of native wildflowers, and urban landscapes, bringing alders and crack willow.

Using timber in various forms to nature back into ‘grey’ spaces and showcase its renewable properties, encouraging visitors of all ages to Multi-award winning Sarah Eberle RHS Chelsea Gold medal-winning engage with nature through foraging. returns to RHS Chelsea with her designer Joe Perkins hopes to MEDITE SMARTPLY Building The Highlighting the importance Future Garden, another naturalistic empower others to plant trees and support sustainable woodlands. of connecting with each other design using edge-of-forest plants. through nature is Andy Sturgeon’s It will be dominated by a feature Elsewhere, the playful, interactive Mind Garden which features building constructed of MEDITE garden The New Blue Peter Garden sculptural walls enclosing calm SMARTPLY carbon-negative - Discover Soil, designed by Juliet seating areas with drifts of planting products with a waterfall tumbling Sargeant, aims to open visitors’ providing a backdrop. over its top into a pool below.

58 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

gardens The Mind Garden is supported

by Project Giving Back, a new sponsorship scheme for RHS Chelsea Gardens. The organisation has funded several gardens in support of charities including the St Mungo’s Putting Down Roots Garden by Darryl Moore and Adolfo Harrison. This is an urban park that highlights the benefit of green spaces to wellbeing.

The scheme has also supported The RNLI Garden, a celebration of the history and modernity of the charity and The RAF Benevolent Fund Garden, which celebrates the ongoing support of veterans.

Elsewhere in the Show Gardens category, the Morris & Co. garden reimagines two classic patterns by Victorian designer William Morris while the Perennial Garden is a classical yet contemporary design that elegantly combines hornbeam hedging with hawthorn trees

providing structure and symmetry along a rill.

Water also features in the Brewin Dolphin Garden, which is set in an inner city brownfield site featuring using repurposed or recycled materials and sustainably sourced products.

The championing of biodiversityrich spaces continues in the Sanctuary Gardens. For example, rich and vibrant green woodland The St Mungo’s Putting Down Roots Garden

planting and a immersive tree canopy will create a feeling of connectedness with nature in A Garden Sanctuary by Hamptons.

Plenty more features at RHS Chelsea 2022 are yet to be announced, including several more gardens, the House Plant Studios and a Great Pavilion brimming with inspiring displays.

Tickets are available to buy now, head to the RHS website for details!

• rhs.org.uk

HIGH QUALITY GARDEN MACHINERY FROM LEADING BRANDS Ride On Lawn Mowers Self Propelled Lawn Mowers Hedge Trimmers Leaf Blowers & Vacs

Brushcutters & Strimmers Chainsaws Multi Tools (KombiSystem) Pressure Washers

Lawn Scarifiers Tillers, Cultivators & Rotavators Handheld Tools Fuel, Batteries & Lubricants

LAWN MOWER & GARDEN MACHINERY SERVICING We have a dedicated workshop for garden machinery repairs and servicing and a popular fixed price menu structure. So if your ride-on stops running or your chainsaw is in need of looking over, we are the place to come.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Mon - Fri: 8am to 5pm Sat: 8.30am to 12.30pm Closed Sundays Bath Road, Chippenham Wiltshire SN14 0RL Tel 01249 652573 | www.johnmillerltd.co.uk | Email: sales@johnmillerltd.co.uk

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 59

gardens

BARTERS PLANTS

I

Based in Chapmanslade, Barters has been growing plants for more than 50 years and has a retail area that is open to the public seven days a week.

n a lovely rural setting, the Barters site is studded with many homegrown shrubs and trees. The plant nursery has been cultivating hardy plants for over 50 years. Over the last two years Barters has been evolving their retail area which is open to the public 7 days a week.

Seasonal changing displays mean every time you drop by there is something spectacular to see.

A revitalised plant centre is currently full of flowering plants for spring: they have over 100 varieties of roses grown in their nursery plus a wide range of soft fruit, top fruit and ornamental trees. There are also alpines and cottage garden plants for masses of colour year after year; not forgetting climbers, perennials, annuals, established specimens and shade-loving plants – whatever you are looking for it’s a good bet they’ll have it or can get it - they will source plants for you they do not have in stock. They also have rare and unusual plants - ideal if you are looking for something special.

While Barters grow a great many plants on their nursery, they obviously cannot grow everything.

Plants carefully selected from specialist UK growers supplement

Find shade lovers like hostas

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Seasonal plants like geums are on display now

"Landscapers, garden designers and enthusiasts have long been trusting Barters to deliver without first visiting and are very rarely disappointed." the homegrown stock; all plants on offer are of superb quality and are surprisingly good value.

(pictured below) has taken up residence and is a hit with staff and visitors alike.

A significant extra is their Loyalty Card scheme giving a 10% discount to regular customers – they value loyal customers as well as new ones!

Usefully, a reasonably priced delivery service is also available. Easy access The ’Grow Your Own’ movement is well catered for too with an abundant from the A36 makes Barters the selection of traditional favourites and supplier of choice for keen gardeners exciting new varieties of fruit and veg. from Westbury, Frome, Warminster, Trowbridge, as well as further afield.

Often Barters are asked to supply • barters.co.uk plants via email. Their website has a weekly updated availability list and you can order through a web form.

Landscapers, garden designers and enthusiasts have long been trusting Barters to deliver without first visiting and are very rarely disappointed.

Barters staff love talking plants and gardening - when you visit, you'll probably leave a wiser gardener whatever your garden size.

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legal & financial

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS & INHERITANCE FOR YOUR CHILDREN ANNIE JAMES, Solicitor at Goughs Solicitors, has some much needed and very helpful advice for you.

W

e recently had a couple instruct us as they required help with preparing their Wills. They had two children together. The husband wanted to ensure his children’s inheritance was protected should his wife remarry after his death. He had heard of situations where the surviving spouse had remarried and left the assets of the marriage to the new spouse and the children were left with little or nothing. I offered a range of options:

LIFE INTEREST TRUSTS This can protect one half share of the capital in your property and any assets in the sole name of the deceased. This 50% share of the assets will be held within the Life Interest Trust for the benefit of the surviving spouse. The survivor will be able to live in the family home and will receive an income from any other assets. However, importantly the capital value of the 50% share of the assets will not be included in the survivor’s estate, should the survivor’s financial circumstances be subjected to potential vulnerabilities, such as remarriage.

"Our expert team of solicitors provide bespoke advice on all aspects of wealth planning for high net worth individuals."

62 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

The Life Interest Trust can either protect just a half share of the value of your home or it can protect the half share of the value of your total estate. If you only protect the half share value of your home, the survivor will then have access to the remaining capital in your estate.

Annie James

Therefore, if the survivor remarries, assets held in the Life Interest Trust will be due to your children absolutely LEAVE GIFTS ON THE FIRST DEATH on the death of the survivor rather You could give gifts of assets to your than to the new spouse. children on your death and then leave anything remaining to your DISCRETIONARY spouse. For example, you could leave TRUSTS gifts of money to your children and Your assets are held by a number your home to your spouse. of people (usually two) who you have chosen (Trustees). They hold HOW CAN GOUGHS these assets for a pool of chosen HELP? beneficiaries. It is at the Trustees' There are many different possibilities discretion how, when and to whom available and no two persons' the assets are paid. No beneficiary circumstances are the same. It is has a right to receive assets from important that you decide what the trust, it remains at the Trustees' is right for you, your spouse, your discretion. children and your circumstances.

This is very useful for complex situations where the circumstances of your beneficiaries are unknown at the time of writing your Will, such as suffering from health conditions.

If you’re a high net worth individual, a Discretionary Trust can be a very useful tool so that distributions can be made in accordance with the specific financial circumstances at your death.

Our expert team of solicitors provide bespoke advice on all aspects of wealth planning for high net worth individuals. We find practical solutions to meet your objectives in relation to tax efficiency, asset protection and succession planning.

To get in touch, please email anniejames@goughs.co.uk • goughs.co.uk

recruitment

E

JOIN THE DOROTHY HOUSE TEAM

very day is different when you join the Dorothy House home care team, but one thing that won’t change is you’ll be working in a supportive, and rewarding role. If you’re looking for a career with purpose then they’re looking for you.

The Dorothy House Hospice At Home team offers practical, physical and emotional care to those the community who are approaching death, as well as their family and friends. They are a small team who support and enable each other to be the very best they can be, because all of us are better than any of us.

“Every day is different and challenging, and I feel privileged to be let into the lives and homes of our patients.”

(Elaine Kynaston, Dorothy House carer, 2022) “I cannot put into words what a difference your carers made at such a dark time, and I will always be truly grateful.”

(Family of a patient, 2021) For more information about working for Dorothy house Hospice Care, please visit the website and search for ‘jobs’ or contact their Talent Acquisition Lead Nicola Bullivent via email at

Busy Bees

nicola.bullivent@dorothyhousehospice.org.uk or on 07788 542312.

• dorothyhouse.org.uk

"If you’re looking for a career with purpose then they’re looking for you."

Dorothy House carers

SAFE CARE

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WE ARE HIRING

We have a range of jobs available due to new and expanding contracts.

These include Part-Time and Full-Time hours in Domestic and Commercial cleaning positions for evening and daytime hours to suit.

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Email your updated CV and hourly preferences or complete the application form on our website.

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www.busybees2000.co.uk 64 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

ftli

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legal & financial

APPOINTING A GUARDIAN

K

athryn Smith Cowap, a Partner in Wansbroughs looks at the importance of appointing a guardian within your Will.

Kathryn Smith Cowap

A guardian is the person who becomes legally responsible for looking after your children if you die before they turn 18, should there be no surviving person with parental responsibility for those children. Guardians gain parental responsibility and can make decisions about your children’s health, education and where and with whom they will live.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN APPOINTING A GUARDIAN? • Who to choose?

While you can appoint a single guardian, it can be sensible to appoint a substitute in case your first choice is unable or unwilling to act.

• How do I ensure my guardians have sufficient funds to look after my children?

You may need to ask your executors to release money to fund your children’s education and to meet other day-to-day expenses, and ensure your guardians are not left out of pocket.

It is sensible to appoint people with whom your children are comfortable and who have similar beliefs and morals to you.

If you would like to discuss appointing a guardian within your Will, please get in touch with us at wealth@wansbroughs.com.

• How many guardians do I need?

• wansbroughs.com

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 65

The MOBILITY

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bath rugby

JOE MADDOCK TO RETURN TO BATH RUGBY Bath Rugby have endured a truly forgettable season but changes have already been made, including the return of Joe Maddock as Attack Coach.

J

oe Maddock has been appointed as Bath’s new Attack Coach with effect from the start of the 2022/23 season. The New Zealander returns to the club where he made 130 appearances on the wing between 2004 and 2010.

Joe Maddock has established an excellent reputation as a coach

“Bath has always been special to me and my family,” said Maddock.

“I love the club and I love the city.

I’m looking forward to working with such a talented group of players and contributing to an exciting new era.”

Maddock has emerged as a talented and admired coach, learning his trade in the revered Canterbury/ Crusaders environment and serving as Head Coach of the Canterbury team in the Mitre 10 domestic competition. He is currently a member of the coaching team at Toshiba Brave Lupus in Japan.

Tarquin McDonald, Chief Executive, said: “We are grateful to Toshiba for allowing Joe to return to Bath.

Working under new Head Coach Johann van Graan, he will add an extra dimension to a gifted and experienced coaching unit.”

The club has also announced a number of new signings who will join the squad at the start of next season. Niall Annett, hooker, will arrive from Worcester Warriors having delivered consistently outstanding performances in the Premiership.

Matt Gallagher, full-back, made his name in the Saracens Academy before moving to Munster. Strong 68 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

and talented, he is ready to make a successful return to the Premiership and realise his full potential.

power options in the back five, and has been a key component of the Munster pack since joining in 2017.

Wesley White, a back row forward, has been performing well for Jersey Reds in the Championship. The talented 26-year-old South African is eager to seize his opportunity to thrive at the highest level of club rugby in England.

Finally, former Springbok scrumhalf Louis Schreuder will also join the club, from Newcastle Falcons, strengthening the squad in a key position.

• bathrugby.com

Perhaps the biggest name arriving next season is Dave Attwood, who will be returning to the club following three years at Bristol Bears.

Attwood made 157 appearances during his first spell at the club.

South African Chris Cloete is also arriving with Johann van Graan from Munster. Cloete bolsters the club’s

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

30 Apr

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Worcester Warriors

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20-22 May

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TBC

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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) LIPE a) careless, reckless, happy-go-lucky b) a pleat or fold in cloth c) wool taken from a dead sheep

2) RAIL

3) QUINNET a) the fifth in a litter b) a depression of spirits c) a wedge

4) MUCKLE

70 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

THE SIXTIES The confidence of the 60s brought with it a flock of new vocabulary. The Cold War era brought us body count, damage limitation, the black box, hawks and doves, ‘surgical’ strikes and peaceniks.

As is often the case, the young were the creators of much of the new language, especially when it related directly to their lives. Words like grotty, gear, switched on, aggro, naff, groupies, bovver, teeny-boppers, with it, freak out and, of course, vibes are instantly identifiable.

Fashion brought thongs and caftans, dreadlocks, flares and hipsters. The drug world saw the arrival of mindexpanding, of uppers and downers, poppers, tabs and angel dust.

The media world developed with paparazzi, image makers, chat-shows, pagers, sitcoms, videos, cassettes, answerphones and phone-ins.

The environmental movement added impetus with biodegradable, endangered, global village and unleaded and those aligned to the ‘mind, body and spirit’ outlook found words to translate the notions of biorhythms, lotus position, aerobics, ego-trip, lateral thinking, lige-style, extra-terrestrial, shiatsu and holistic medicine, body language and born-again.

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

a) to crawl or creep about b) anything badly formed or out of shape c) a tree bare of leaves or twigs

a) a scarecrow made of old garments b) unsettled weather c) manure, long straw from the stable

puzzles

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Q1: What was the name of the only child born on The Mayflower during the voyage to America?

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LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: IRIS Quiz answers 1: The first Sunday that comes after the first full moon of the Spring equinox.

2: Persephone.

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4: Pablo Neruda.

5: Friday 22nd April.

72 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Q3: What was the name of the captain of The Mayflower?

Q4: Which two breeds of dog are known to have participated in settling Plymouth Colony?

Q5: On what date should the 400th anniversary of the sailing of The Mayflower have taken place?

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last word

T

SCHOOL DAYS

oday was a landmark day in the Rockliffe household, we found that our youngest got into the school of our choice and will be starting in September. What on earth he is doing going off to school at the age of two is beyond me…..

Of course he isn’t two, he will be a month shy of his fifth birthday when he starts, but the time has gone so quickly I can’t quite get my head around the reality of the situation!

It doesn’t seem that long ago he was crawling around the floor covered in chocolate and cake crumbs… actually that was only two days ago but I digress!! The swiftness of time and how quickly

about school uniform and shoes and all the other gubbins that comes with it. Unfortunately, as we had a girl then a boy, that means there‘s no prospect of hand-me-downs so an expensive, trip to the uniform shop is on the cards. I guess we could try and fashion some trousers from one of his sister’s old school dresses but I’m not sure my wife’s middling sewing skills are up to it. Just as I was he’s pretty tall for his age so even though he has boy cousins that have kindly donated clothes and shoes over the years he has outgrown most of the age appropriate stuff already! Another thing he has - unfortuantely inherited from me is a rather large head; he’s 4½ and wears aged 8-10 head gear!

“One of the worst things about them starting school is the fact that they are no longer completely in your sphere of influence.” kids grow up astounds me at times.

Our eldest is now nine years old ( going on 15) and it only seems a short while ago it was her getting excited for her first day at school!

The years have just slipped by, almost unnoticeably, and she has moved through the school years without us really marking each one, it’s something that happens to everyone, the march of time, and yet here we are, at the point where, after this year, she will have two more school years and she will be at ‘BIG’ school!!!

The fact the youngest one is now starting means we have to think 74 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

One of the worst things about them starting school is the fact that they are no longer completely in your sphere of influence. At the moment pretty much everything they do, see or experience has, in one way or another, been vetted by you; you know who and what they are seeing and who they are coming into contact with and if you are not happy with a particular interaction you can put a stop to it pretty much straight away.

Once they are at school though that control is lost and for all you know the boy/girl they are now best friends could be a serial killer in the making or a future

best-person-ever but you don’t know which and you just have to let it play out. It’s a nightmare for my inner control freak!

Kids grow up! It’s inevitable and, however much you would like to, you can’t keep them at four years old and safely cocooned at home for eternity. You just have to put on a brave face in public and then every now and then take a bottle of whatever is your drink of choice, go and sit in a darkened room and scroll through all the baby pictures and videos.

Phil Rockliffe