The West Wilts Magazine - December 2022

LISA ROCKLIFFE Editor

e: lisa@wired-publishing.co.uk

Welcome M

erry Christmas everybody! It’s the end of another busy year and everyone is looking forward to a well earned break to spend with their nearest and dearest. Our final edition of 2022 is chock full of Christmas cheer!

One of our biggest and best-loved features of the year is our Christmas Gift Guide (p36). It is rammed full of gift ideas from small local retailers all across the region and features ideas for everyone in the family!

Published by Wired Publishing

Editor Lisa Rockliffe

Contributors

Fran Stevens, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Andy Diffey, Adam Jacot De Boinod

Advertising Enquiries Andy Diffey

e: andy@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775

General Enquiries e: info@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 w: wired-publishing.co.uk

Address 20 Azalea Drive, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 9GG

This magazine is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests. Please recycle it when you are done, or pass it on!

Front Cover: Fantastic Mr Fox, Longleat’s Festival Of Light

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.

Our listings (p8) and local news (from p14) pages are a great place to start if you are looking for things to do over Christmastime, with shows, craft workshops and more to look forward to. We also head over to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s Langford Lakes (p34), it’s a real haven for wildlife and a wonderful venue for a festive walk. And, if you have all the family round, why not play quizmaster and put them to the test with our Very Merry Christmas Quiz (p19), it has questions for all ages! If you are feeling crafty, we also have a guide to making your own Christmas wreath (p56)!

Away from Christmas, we have some helpful advice on helping our pets (p54) and wildlife (p58) through the festive season and the rest of the winter.

Finally a big thanks to all our advertisers - please do try to shop local as much as you can this festive season, they really do need your business!

Lisa Rockliffe, Editor

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Find an online version of the magazine and lots of extra content on our website.

westwiltsmag.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

HOME & GARDEN

&

© Gary Mantle

listings local DECEMBER 2022

MELKSHAM

ASSEMBLY HALL

Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES

Box Office: 01225 709887 melkshamassemblyhall.com

THE 80’s & 90’s CHRISTMAS PARTY

16 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £10 The Assembly Hall’s ever-popular retro Christmas spectacular is back!

THE POLAR EXPRESS PJ PARTY 22 December, 4pm Tickets: £5

Pop on your PJs and feel free to bring a favourite soft toy, pillows and blankets and snuggle up for a beloved festive classic on the big screen. Accompanying adults can come in for free and enjoy a complimentary mince pie!

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE

Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 wiltshiremusic.org.uk

COURTNEY PINE: SPIRITUALITY

9 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £28 (Concs £15)

The groundbreaking British jazz icon returns with introspective new material.

THE CHOIR OF CLARE COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE

10 December, 7.30pm

Tickets: £26 (Concs £14)

A beautiful seasonal programme,

including motets by Mendelssohn and Howells, some exquisite arrangements of traditional carols, and a selection of festive favourites.

THE ROYAL BALLET: THE NUTCRACKER

14 December, 7.15pm

Tickets: £18 (Concs £10) Tchaikovsky’s most well-known and magical work.

SWING DANCE WORKSHOP

16 December, 5.30pm

Tickets: £6

Learn how to Lindy Hop, the original form of jive dancing that developed in Harlem in the 1920s, with the Lindy Hop Dance Company!

SWINGING AT THE COTTON CLUB

16 December, 7.30pm

Tickets: £25 (Concs £14)

Take a step back in time and through the doors of The Cotton Club, New York City’s most celebrated nightclub of the 1920s and ‘30s.

THE ROYAL BALLET: THE NUTCRACKER (Relaxed Screening)

17 December, 2pm Tickets: £18 (Concs £10)

A much-loved festive treat for the family combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular dancing.

TOWN HALL ARTS

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

WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP

10 December, 2pm Tickets: £60

You will be given seasonal materials and professional tuition so that you can unleash your creativity to make a stunning, living wreath to give your home a festive glow.

TEA DANCE 15 December, 2pm Tickets: £5

Enjoy a mixed programme of dances send your listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

Courtney Pine, Wiltshire Music Centre

under the guidance of experienced teachers Mike and Lesley Freke.

POUND ARTS CENTRE

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

THE MUPPETS CHRISTMAS CAROL (U) 8 December, 5.30pm Tickets: from £5

To mark 30 years since its theatrical release, The Pound is screening possibly the greatest Christmas film / Charles Dickens adaptation of all time.

SANDI THOM 9 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 It’s been 16 years since her first single “I wish I was a punk rocker” shot to no.1 in 7 different countries.

LOOKING FOR ME FRIEND: THE MUSIC OF VICTORIA WOOD

10 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) A funny & touching tribute to a much loved & sorely missed national treasure.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (U) 13 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £7.50 (Concs £6) A special screening of Frank Capra’s classic, starring James Stewart and Donna Reed.

LISE VANDERSMISSEN

14 December, 1pm Tickets: £8

Lise will present a programme filled with exciting new transcriptions for the harp.

JOHN KIRKPATRICK: CAROLLING & CRUMPETS

17 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £12

A heart-warming look at the timeless rituals found in the folklore and folk music of England at Midwinter.

WILD, WILD WOODS 19 – 24 December, various times Tickets: £9, £7 child, £28 Family (2+2) Deep in the woods, the legend of a hooded hero rustles through the trees... Can Lil’ Red take down the greedy wolves running riot in the castle?

NEELD ARTS CENTRE

High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER

Tel: 01249 446699 neeld.co.uk

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 4 & 5 December, various times Tickets: from £12.25

Join Chapterhouse Theatre Company and celebrate Winter 2022 with the most heart-warming production imaginable to melt the hearts of even the sternest of Scrooges.

THE EVERLY BROTHERS & FRIENDS –A CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 11 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £21

Just like the Everly Brothers, the Temple Brothers are real life brothers, their harmonies are unlike anything ever heard, truly not to be missed.

SANTA SAVES CHRISTMAS

18 December, 11am & 2pm

Tickets: £10.75

A family show most suitable for 2 to 7 year-olds, where every child will receive a specially wrapped

present from Santa – after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever, HO-HO-HO!

MUSIC FOR MINIATURES: A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION!

20 December, various times

Tickets: from £7.50 Puppets, actors and a piano perform festive classics, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and The Snowman.

MEMORIAL THEATRE

Christchurch St West, Frome, BA11 1EB Tel: 01373 462795 fromememorialtheatre.org.uk

THAT’LL BE THE DAY XMAS SHOW

9 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £26 A combination of pop Christmas classics and traditional Christmas songs with comedy sketches and world-class impersonations.

CARA DILLON – UPON A WINTER’S NIGHT

10 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £24

The inimitable Cara Dillon will be touring her annual Christmas show “Upon A Winter’s Night”.

PANTOMIME: CINDERELLA

28 December - 3 January, various times Tickets: £15 Lose yourself in this charming fairy tale with all the usual characters and a few extras for good measure.

The Muppet Christmas Carol, U, Pound Arts

Cara Dillon, Memorial Theatre

THE ATHENAEUM CENTRE

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

DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA (PG) 7 December, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 There is a bustling wind of change and innovation at Downton Abbey.

ROBINSON CRUSOE & THE PIRATES

15 – 24 December, various times Tickets: £14.50 (Concs £12.50) A fabulous value Christmas treat for all the family.

CHEESE & GRAIN

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

DAVE PEARCE - DANCE ANTHEMS

3 December, 8pm Tickets: £18

The creator and original presenter of BBC Radio 1’s Dance Anthems—Dave Pearce has been a driving force in the UK Dance Scene for many years.

FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK FAIR 10 December, 9am FREE

A great place to get all your Christmas party foods all in one place!

FROME CHRISTMAS VEGAN FAIR

11 December, 10am Tickets: £2

Over 40 stalls featuring food, clothing,

gifts, cosmetics, accessories, free tasters, talks and demonstrations.

THE SWEET

16 December, 7pm

Tickets: £30.50 Sweet, featuring original guitarist Andy Scott, will perform iconic hits including Ballroom Blitz, Fox on the Run, Blockbuster, Hellraiser and more.

THE RAMONAS – LIVE @ THE TREE HOUSE 17 December, 7pm Tickets: £12 adv

An all female tribute to the iconic New York Punk Rock band Ramones.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTYTHE HAMMERVILLES 31 December, 8pm

Tickets: £16.50

Famed for their energetic rock/pop floor fillers The Hammervilles are the perfect band to kickstart 2023 with.

VILLAGE PUMP FRIDAY FOLK

Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge villagepump.org.uk

GRANT SHARKEY 4 December, 7pm FREE Bass playing troubadour who has been releasing an album every 6 months for 20 years!

OTHERS

CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS 9 December, 7pm

Tickets: £10, children free Amid the sparkle of Holy Trinity’s Christmas Tree Festival in Bradford on Avon, enjoy an evening of seasonal music and traditional carols from Bradford Choral. Email for further details secretary@boachoral.org.uk

GREAT CHALFIELD CHRISTMAS FAIR

17 December, 10am - 3pm

Entry: £5 adults, children FREE

Great Chalfield Manor, near Melksham SN12 8NH

Taking place in The Great Hall and The Courtyards, the fair will have a variety of stalls, food and drink around the open fire and large Christmas tree. There will be carol singing and lots of opportunities to buy wonderful gifts. greatchalfield.co.uk

CHRISTMAS AT STOURHEAD

Until 1 January 2023

Tickets: adults £21.50 members, £29.50 non-members Stourhead, Wiltshire BA12 6SH Christmas returns to Stourhead when more than a million lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun. Discover the sparkling Cathedral of light, glowing fields of flowers and trees drenched in jewellike colour among other installations. For a moment of reflection pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze at larger-than-life illuminations and don’t forget to find Father Christmas along the way. nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead

THE POUND’S CHRISTMAS LINE-UP!

This Christmas, Corsham is the place to be with a whole host of festive shows and activities to enjoy at The Pound Arts Centre.

For a chilling experience, look no further than Christmas Gothic, a spine-tingling show in which a spectral woman tells haunting tales of the festive season.

Tis the season for a good sing-song, with Jonny Coppin’s All On A Winter’s Night, John Kirkpatrick’s Carolling & Crumpets and a special concert from Corsham Windband Association.

Two beloved Christmas classics, The Muppets Christmas Carol and It’s A Wonderful Life will be gracing The Pound’s cinema screen.

Craft your own festive decorations this year with Linocut Tree Toppers or an Alternative Christmas Wreath workshops. Or how about coming along to a Giant Festive Mural Painting session?

Scratchworks Theatre return with their new festive family theatre show Wild, Wild Woods, a fairy-tale packed full of foot-stomping live music, puppetry, and visual storytelling. To top it all off, the big man himself will be Zooming in! Father Christmas will take an hour out of his busy schedule to livestream from the North Pole through to the auditorium at The Pound and tell a few silly festive tales. To find out more visit the website or call the Box Office on 01249 701628 today.

• poundarts.org.uk

CHRISTMAS AT TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM

Enjoy heart-warming festive activities with the team at Trowbridge Museum this festive season. From the enchanting exhibition ‘Tis the season’ with a charming woodland cabin and traditions from around the world to Victorian story time sessions and felted Christmas Robins, there really

is something for everyone to enjoy.

Togas, Kirtles and Bonnets- A fashion show of Historic Clothes CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS FOR ADULTS 25 November Christmas Card Workshop 1 December Felted Christmas Robin Workshop 10 December Crochet Christmas Tree Decorations • trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

Jonny Coppin’s All On A Winter’s Night

Trowbridge Museum

Christmas sea

1000 years of history to explore as well as a full events programme for the winter season.

trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

image © Roy McDine

A PACKED FESTIVE SEASON AT WMC

December is packed with great music and fun seasonal events at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon. There’s an exciting line up of world-class jazz, choral and classical music. Whether you’re going out or staying in, there’s plenty to enjoy at the Centre and with WMC Digital online at home.

Ground-breaking jazz saxophonist Courtney Pine returns to play music from his latest album Spirituality. The Choir of Clare College, Cambridge kick-off the festive season with a beautiful seasonal programme, and Swinging at the Cotton Club bring the fun with their action-packed performance - don’t miss out on a Swing Dance workshop before that concert! Both Clare College and Swinging at the Cotton Club can be enjoyed online too. For a fun and cosy family evening out, enjoy a screening

of the festive favourite The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker, with snacks available to purchase at the bar and free parking at all live events too!

Wiltshire Youth Choir’s Winter Course for those aged 12-18 begins on 18 December, whilst the West of England Youth Orchestra, for those aged 12-21 playing at a Grade 6 level,

ready-up for their annual New Year concert. There’s loads more coming in the New Year too with Friends priority booking opening on 19 November for a jam-packed 2023.

Book tickets, join the Friends or find out more about online.

• wiltshiremusic.org.uk

OPEN ART TRAIL CALL TO ARTISTS

From Saturday 8 to Sunday16 July, at the same time as the annual Frome Festival, artists will open their studios and workspaces for the Frome Open Art Trail. The Trail takes place in town and surrounding villages exhibiting the fruits of their creativity including paintings, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, glass work, photography, jewellery and metal work. Entry to all venues is free.

The distinctive Art Trail logo is inspired by the Art Nouveau lamps around Frome. Frome had gas street-lighting as early as 1831. The listed lamps are unique to Frome’s rich and varied industrial history.

The Trail brochure, with maps and listings of all participating artists,

plus local galleries and art retail outlets, is a great tour-planning aid and is available on the website: giving contact details, images and links to all the artists and their work. All venues are open at the weekends, and week day openings are listed in the brochure.

Finally, because of the quality and variety of work, the trail always offers an opportunity for exciting shopping!

If you are a local artist and would like to get involved in the trail please email fromeopenarttrail@gmail.com. You can also get in touch via social media - search for fromeopenarttrail on both Facebook and Instagram.

• frome-open-art-trail.co.uk

The Choir of Clare College kick-off the festive season

Frome Open Art Trail is a great showcase of local art

Christmas fayre

saturday 17th december, 10am-3pm

In the Great Hall & The Courtyards

There will be a variety of festive food, drink & cake stalls around the open fire and large Christmas tree with carol singing; with further stalls for food & gifts outside in The Courtyards. Food & coffee available from the Greatest Little Coffee Box on Earth. Requested donations - Adults £5, Children Free 01225 782239 | www.greatchalfield.co.uk near Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 8NH

GREAT CHALFIELD

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS QUIZ

are

ROUND 1

CHRISTMAS FILMS

1. What is the name of the angel who gets his wings in ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’?

2. In what building do the events of ‘Die Hard’ take place?

3. In ‘Love Actually’ who plays musician Billy Mack?

4. Who plays Father Christmas in the 1994 remake of 'Miracle on 34th Street'?

5. Who plays Ebeneezer Scrooge

in ‘A Muppet Christmas Carol’?

6. Which real-life Hollywood couple star in Netflix's 'The Christmas Chronicles 2'?

7. Chris van Allsburg's book 'The Polar Express' was adapted into a festive film led by which Hollywood star?

8. Dudley Moore plays Patch in which 1985 Christmas film?

9. Which A-list Hollywood actress appeared

opposite Bill Pullman in ‘While You Were Sleeping’?

10. Bing Crosby sang the festive favourite ‘White Christmas’ in which 1940s movie?

ROUND 2

CHRISTMAS MUSIC

11. According to a popular Christmas song, what is "roasting on an open fire"?

12. Who scored a Christmas No. 1 in 1994 with ‘Stay Another Day’?

13. In what year was Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas’ first released?

14. Which Beatle wrote of having a ‘Wonderful Christmastime’?

15. Which hugely popular festive song begins "It was Christmas Eve, babe, in the drunk tank…"?

16. Which song has been Christmas No. 1 three times?

17. Bing Crosby sang a 'Little Drummer Boy'/'Peace On Earth' duet with which famous artist?

18. ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas', was sung by Judy Garland in which 1944 musical?

19. Which choir had a 1980 Christmas hit with ‘There's No One Quite Like Grandma’?

20. Which Elvis Presley song was a 1962 Christmas number one?

ROUND 3

CHRISTMAS TV

21. Wallace & Gromit have long been associated with Christmas TV viewing, but which short is the first in the series?

22. Who proposes to who in the 2008 'Gavin And Stacey' Christmas special?

23. Which British monarch delivered the first ever televised Christmas message?

24. Which Doctor made his debut in Doctor Who's 2005 festive special 'The Christmas

IN WHICH YEAR WAS 'THE SNOWMAN' SHOWN ON TV FOR THE FIRST TIME?

25. Which celebrity won the first ever 'Strictly Come Dancing' in December 2004?

26. More than 30 million people tuned in to 'EastEnders' on Christmas Day 1986 in an episode that saw Dirty Den handing Angie Watts what in the Queen Vic?

27. Carols from King's College has been a Christmas TV and radio fixture for many years but where is King's College?

28. Which classic comedy's Christmas special in 2003 ended with Tim and Dawn finally finding love?

29. In which year was 'The Snowman' shown on TV for the first time?

30. What do Del Boy and Rodney dress up as in the 'Only Fools & Horses' episode 'Heroes & Villains'?

Wallace & Gromit

ROUND 4

31. Which nuts are used in marzipan? 32. Which brand popularised the image of Santa as we know it? 33. Which fruit is traditionally found in Christmas stockings? 34. Which traditional German bread is associated with Christmas? 35. Served at Christmastime in France a 'marron glacé' is a candied what? 36. Which type of Italian sweet bread is associated with Christmas? 37. On which day of the week is Christmas pudding traditionally made? 38. In the song 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas', they sing, “now bring us some” what? 39. Which ruler allegedly banned mince pies in Britain in the 1600s? 40. Which festive sweet Elf SERVED AT CHRISTMAS IN FRANCE A 'MARRON GLACÉ' IS A CANDIED WHAT?

treat is shaped to resemble a shepherd’s staff?

5 FOR THE KIDS! 41. Where is Santa’s workshop? 42. Excluding Rudolph, how many reindeers does Father Christmas have? 43. Why can’t The Grinch enjoy Christmas? 44. How many French hens are there in 'The 12 Days of Christmas' song? 45. In the movie ‘Elf’ what are Buddy the Elf’s four main food groups? 46. What present

ROUND

does Harry Potter receive from Dumbledore on his first Christmas at Hogwarts? 47. What is the name of Kristoff's reindeer in 'Frozen'? 48. Which famous Christmas song includes the lyrics: "Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh"? Three Kings take to baby Jesus? ANSWERS: FILM: 1. Clarence, 2. Nakatomi Plaza, 3. Bill Nighy, 4. Donald Trump, 5. Michael Caine, 6. Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, 7. Tom Hanks, 8. Santa Claus: The Movie, 9. Sandra Bullock, 10. Holiday Inn, MUSIC 11. Chestnuts, 12. East 17, 13. 1994, 14. Paul McCartney, 15. Fairytale of New York, 16. Do They Know It’s Christmas, 17. David Bowie, 18. Meet Me In St Louis,

Sender,

to Nessa,

THE WONDROUS WORLDS OF ROALD DAHL

This winter The Festival of Light at LONGLEAT is back, and this year it's bringing Roald Dahl’s much-loved stories to life.

Crunchem Hall to meet the fearsome Miss Trunchbull and come face to face with the wicked Witches.

The illuminated outdoor trail also features key scenes from Esio Trot, The Twits, Fantastic Mr Fox, George’s Marvellous Medicine, The Enormous Crocodile and The Giraffe And The Pelly And Me. Other highlights include a 3-metre-tall book tunnel and a giant stack of Roald Dahl’s books in Main Square. The festive fun continues with Longleat’s famous 15-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree Show and Santa Train*.

Running throughout the festive holidays until January 8, ‘The Wondrous Worlds of Roald Dahl’ features a host of the acclaimed authors most iconic characters, including the BFG, Willy Wonka, Matilda and Fantastic Mr Fox.

Working in partnership with The Roald Dahl Story Company, Longleat has created 23 stunning lantern scenes to narrate his much-loved stories as part of their renowned The Festival of Light.

"Visitors can wander through Giant Country, see Sophie in the BFG’s Cave and accompany them on their visit to Buckingham Palace."

This year’s fantastical festival is the most spectacular to date with over 800 individual lanterns, some more than 15-metres tall, set against the historic backdrop of Longleat House, formal gardens and ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland.

Visitors can wander through Giant Country, see Sophie in the BFG’s Cave and accompany them on their visit to Buckingham Palace.

Step inside the gates of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory to meet Charlie, Mike, Violet, Veruca, Augustus and the Oompa-Loompas.

Head over to Half Mile Pond to watch James set sail for New York on the Giant Peach and brave sharkinfested seas, accompany Matilda to

Tickets to The Festival of Light include the Winter Safari DriveThrough, Enchanted Christmas Tree Show, on-foot animal attractions including Koala Creek, Jungle Cruise and Family Farmyard, Adventure Castle, Rockin’ Rhino, Jungle Cruise and the Hedge Maze.

Adult tickets from £39.95, Child tickets from £29.95, Under 3s go FREE. For more information and to book see the website.

• longleat.co.uk/the-festival-of-light

Meet Bruce Bogtrotter from Matilda

Fantastic Mr Fox

DELICIOUS FESTIVE DINING AT THE GEORGE

The George in Bradford on Avon is the perfect place to visit when you want some great tasting food. They still have some availability for their festive group party menu. Available from Monday to Saturday for both lunch and dinner two courses cost £27.95 and three cost £34.95, the menu includes the likes of French onion soup with a melted Cheddar croute, roast pheasant breast with miniature game cottage pie, Christmas carrots, savoy cabbage and bacon and a rich madeira sauce, and puddings include The George’s sticky Christmas pudding and a Christmas knickerbocker glory – all completely delicious!

The George is also now taking bookings for its Greatest Showmanthemed New Year’s Eve Party! On the night they are offering a fabulous

5-course gourmet dinner for £70 per person. The menu consists of chicken liver parfait to start, a twicebaked smoked salmon souffle, a champagne sorbet, a Beef Forestière and roasted winter vegetables. A decadent chocolate torte with

raspberry sorbet completes this New Year’s feast! Following dinner you can dance the night away with DJ Rik and bring in 2023 in fine style! Book your table on 01225 865650.

• thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

EVERYTHING FOR CHRISTMAS AT HARTLEY

Christmas has arrived and the shelves at Hartley are packed with Christmas goodies! Their full Christmas catalogue is available to view and order online, including free-range Christmas poultry, their own grass-fed beef, and all the festive trimmings! They also have delicious British cheeses and deli favourites

like pate and smoked ham joints and a host of homemade favourites including Christmas puddings and mince pies! When you are ready to checkout simply select a collection slot or a local delivery day and they’ll take care of the rest! The deadline for changes to your order is 6 December and the Christmas shop will close on the

13 December. Should you forget anything though don’t worry, the farm shop will be open until 12pm on Christmas Eve for all the lastminute essentials! The Barn will also be open throughout the run up to Christmas serving a delicious seasonal menu, and there are lots of events taking place throughout December, including Christmas Stories for children, carols around the firepit, late night shopping, wreath-making workshops and their annual Christmas Quizmas - see the website for details!

The Flying Fig Christmas Tree Company are at Hartley once again with their beautiful range of non-drop Nordman and Fraser Fir trees from 3ft to 10ft – just pop in to grab your stunning real Christmas tree!

• hartley-farm.co.uk

Dine at at The George this Christmas and enjoy delicious festive food

Adam,

STARTERS

Smoked salmon & dill pâté with salted crostinis £5/£7

Creamy tomato soup with warm ciabatta ** £4/£6.50

Prawn cocktail served with Marie Rose sauce £5/£7

Christmas menu available from 1st December – 24th December. Pre-bookings only.

MAINS

Roast turkey w. roasties & all the trimmings £12.50/£16.50

Braised beef w. roasties & all the trimmings £12.50/£16.50

Homemade nut roast w. roasties, veggies & veggie gravy £10.50/£13.95

Homemade fisherman’s pie w. a buttery mash topping, served w. peas & greens £10.50/£13.50

Homemade lentil loaf w. roasties, veggies & vegan gravy £10.50/£13.95

01225 782581

DESSERTS

Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter £4/£6.50

Homemade chocolate brownie £4/£6.50

Homemade coffee crème brulee £4/£6.50

seasons eat the

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

Hopefully we will have a better Christmas trading-wise than the last two years with Covid finally out of the way and availability of produce looking good. The only negative is rising transport costs. Most of our salad leaves come from Spain and Morocco through the winter, especially tomatoes and cucumbers. To give an example on extra costs, an articulated lorry last winter cost approximately £2,500 to come from Spain to the UK. This winter it’s £4.500. You can then understand why when you go shopping there is such an increase in prices (along with rising wage costs). Ultimately this is making food more expensive.

Obviously there are certain ingredients chefs need that have to be imported most of the year, such as citrus, herbs and spices but when it comes to vegetables as I always say to our customers (and the same to you when shopping) stick to the seasons! If you eat seasonally, especially with veg, it will always be the most reasonably priced and of course this applies to supermarkets, local and farm shops as well. Not only are you saving your money but you are also supporting the local growers.

One crop that we sell loads of in December but hardly any after that is Brussels sprouts. Ours come from our long standing grower in Sherston. A fantastic by product of the sprout

plant which has a sweet cabbage taste is the sprout tops. A small fluffy cabbage, it is a tasty alternative, between sprouts and Savoy cabbage, that would otherwise get wasted.

As you know our Maris Piper potatoes are grown in Corsham; they are a must for roasting. With carrots, parsnips and red cabbage coming from Bromham, that’s all you need for a locally sourced Christmas dinner!

For gardeners, now is the time to think about improvements for next year and one thing to consider is to improve your capacity to collect rainwater; try installing guttering on your shed or greenhouse and water butts to store it. The naturally soft water is better for your plants too.

Congratulations to the winner of our pumpkin carving competition in October's edition - the winner was Paris Chivers from Trowbridge. Her winning entry (pictured right) includes Dobby and Hagrid from the Harry Potter series! Fantastic work Paris!

On the allotment you can put onion setts and garlic in now as well as broad beans that can go straight in the ground or in pots to start them off if you prefer. I had

help this week from granddaughter No 4 who is 3 years old and she actually asked me why we were putting them in the ground instead of in pots like she did last year! Wish I had a memory like that! Signing off the year with that, see you in 2023.

As always email with any questions!

Neil @lovejoysuk @lovejoysuk

• lovejoyswholesale.com

Dobby and Hagrid decorated pumpkins!

WINTER SALADS

SPICED ROASTED VEGETABLE SALAD WITH FETA & POMEGRANATE

Serves 2 (4 as a starter)

Christmas time is synonymous with rich food. And a lot of it. Sometimes something fresh, light and nutritious is needed!

This warm salad uses roasted vegetables which have been coated in warming ras al hanout (a spice blend you should be able to find in

most supermarkets) and then dressed with a tart pomegranate molasses (again this seems to be fairly easy to get hold of nowadays) dressing and the salty feta brings everything together. You could also adorn it with pomegranate seeds if you like.

Ingredients

2 sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into 1cm dice

2 carrots, peeled & cut into 1cm dice

2 red peppers, de-seeded & cut into large dice

1 large beetroot, peeled & cut into 1cm dice

1 bunch of kale/cavalo nero, shredded 100g feta Olive oil

1 heaped tsp ras al hanout

For the dressing combine:

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

2 tbsp pomegranate molasses

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Method

Preheat oven to 170°C fan and lay out 2 baking trays.

Toss a tablespoon of olive oil, with the ras al hanout, sweet potato, carrot and red pepper in a large bowl. Spread on a large baking tray. Next toss the beetroot in the bowl with the remaining spiced oil (it should still be coating the bowl). Spread the beetroot on to a separate baking tray and place both trays in the oven for half an hour.

Massage the kale/cavalo nero with a tablespoon of olive oil and set to one side. After half an hour spread the massaged kale over the tray of sweet potato and return to the oven for a further 10 minutes.

Remove both trays from the oven once they have been in for 40 minutes. Arrange the kale on the base of each plate, followed by the sweet potato, carrot and pepper and then the beetroot. Drizzle over the dressing and finish by crumbling over the feta. Serve immediately.

This month FRAN STEVENS, aka The Food Wife, shares some delicious winter salad recipes; the perfect antidote to the season’s rich dishes...

THAI-STYLE STEAK NOODLE SALAD

Serves 2

This is a great dish and it’s tasty and quick to make. I used lime leaves in my dressing and marinade but if you can’t get them, the zest of a lime will suffice.

When it comes to the salad pick whatever you like. Keep a crunchy element though (I used iceberg lettuce) as this brings a different texture to the meal. I served my steak rare, but by all means cook it longer to your preference.

Ingredients

For the steak:

300g ribeye steak

2 tbsp fish sauce

1 tbsp light soy sauce (gf if required)

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp dried chilli flakes

Zest of 1 lime/2 lime leaves, finely sliced

For the salad dressing:

2 tbsp fish sauce

2 tbsp rice wine vinegar

2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp dried chilli flakes

1 inch of root ginger, peeled & grated Juice of 1 lime

Zest of 1 lime/2 lime leaves, finely sliced

For the salad: 100g cooked & cooled vermicelli rice noodles

4 handfuls of salad (e.g. lettuce, cucumber, pepper, spring onion all sliced/shredded)

Method

Combine the marinade for the steak and allow the steak to sit in it for about half an hour.

Combine the ingredients for the salad dressing and set to one side.

Put a non-stick frying pan on a high heat then sear the steak (reserve the marinade) on each side for a minute

(or more if you want it medium or well done). Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and then remove the steak and all of its juices from the pan, and cover with foil, and allow to rest for a few minutes.

Cut the beef into thin slices, combine the cooled noodles and salad with the dressing and then arrange on a plate or bowl and drape the steak over the top, pouring over any remaining juices from the beef. Serve immediately.

ROASTED CARROT, BEETROOT & KALE SALAD WITH LENTILS

Serves 2 - 4+

This is perfect for this time of year. It’s warming, nutritious and delicious! As a main meal this will feed two but for a lunch or as part of a bigger spread then it will feed four+.

You could also use other vegetables such as sweet potatoes, butternut squash or peppers to roast but the earthiness of the beetroot goes really well with the lentils.

Ingredients

4 carrots, peeled & cut lengthways into quarters and then each quarter into three.

4 beetroot, ready cooked, cut into wedges of 6-8 depending on size

2 red onions, peeled & cut into 8 wedges

A bunch of Cavolo Nero or curly kale, washed & shredded

Olive oil Salt and pepper

250g ready cooked lentils (I used beluga lentils. Puy or green lentils would work well.

2 handfuls of walnuts, toasted (optional)

For the dressing:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Salt and pepper

Method

Preheat the oven to 200°C fan. Arrange the carrot, beetroot and onion on a baking tray (large enough to create a single layer) and drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper.

Toss with your hands and spread the vegetables flat. Roast for 30 minutes, giving them a jiggle half way through.

Meanwhile toss the kale with a drizzle of oil, a pinch each of salt and pepper in a bowl. Set to one side. Toast the walnuts. Set to one side. Combine the dressing ingredients in a jar.

After half an hour of roasting, remove the tray from the oven and spread the kale out on top. Return to the oven for 10-15 minutes.

Meanwhile heat the lentils and get a large serving bowl ready.

Toss the roasted vegetables and lentils with the dressing. Scatter over the walnuts and serve.

• thefoodwife.co.uk

LANGFORD LAKES

Nestled in the Wylye Valley between Salisbury and Warminster, Langford Lakes is one of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s flagship nature reserves with fantastic new facilities including a café, art gallery and events space.

The reserve has a relaxing atmosphere with good level paths for easy walking. You can enjoy watching otters and wildfowl from

five hides overlooking the lakes or from the Kingfisher Café, which has a veranda and cosy indoor seating, offering visitors stunning lakeside views and delicious tea and cake.

Langford Lakes is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The four lakes and wet scrape provide a vital stopping off point and resident habitat for about 150 different bird species. Residents include kingfisher, water rail and

gadwall. You may even spot some rarities on your visits, such as the osprey, the white-tailed eagle or the pectoral sandpiper.

In spring, watch for great-crested grebes shaking their heads in courtship. Reed warbler, waders and terns drop in on their summer migration. And as winter advances, an amazing array of wintering species arrive. Large flocks of lapwing can be seen flying around and feeding on the wetlands; shoveler and wigeon join the other ducks present all year round; and occasionally the endangered and secretive bittern pays a visit.

This month we focus on one of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's flagship reserves, LANGFORD LAKES between Warminster and Salisbury.

Over 150 different bird species are found at Langford Lakes

"Langford Lakes is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The four lakes and wet scrape provide a vital stopping off point and resident habitat for about 150 different bird species."

Since Wiltshire Wildlife Trust acquired the lakes in 2001, islands, ponds and wader scrapes have been created to provide habitat for birds such as redshank and sandpiper that probe the mud for food. The Trust also improved the 800m stretch of Wylye River for fish, designated a Special Area of Conservation, and a neighbouring field was transformed into the Great Meadow wetland in September 2012.

The Trust has more exciting wetland habitat improvements in the pipeline at Langford Lakes over the coming years, thanks to the Network for

Nature project funded by National Highways, which focuses on improving, creating and restoring habitat that has been impacted by historic road building activity. Just last month, a reedbed was extended on Brockbank Lake, and future funded projects include a sand martin bank and new wet grassland that will support breeding birds.

To prepare for your visit, find all the information you need at wiltshirewildlife.org/langford-lakes

Near Steeple Langford

What3Words:///package.vague. gradually

• Suitable for pushchairs & wheelchairs

• Dogs are not allowed

• Facilities include bird hides, café (open Wed-Sun, Christmas closure 24 Dec-3 Jan), toilets, car & coach parking for disabled visitors, cycle racks

• 31.62 hectares

• 1 mile walking loop

• wiltshirewildlife.org

HOW TO GET THERE

If driving - Just off the A36 Salisbury to Warminster road, follow signs for The Langfords. In Steeple Langford turn into Duck Street. Reserve entrance is on the left once you have crossed the river. (nb in rural areas postcodes can cover wide areas so satnavs may not be that accurate.)

If using bus – use the No.265 bus service between Salisbury and Bath. Nearest bus stop is 500m away in Steeple Langford.

If cycling – National Cycle Route 24 runs right past Langford Lakes nature reserve. sustrans.org.uk

© Ralph Harvey

A lapwing

The new Nature Centre at Langford Lakes

© Gary Mantle

GOING FOR GOLD

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coffee lovers

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INITIAL THOUGHTS

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Leather Camera Bag, £69.95

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POCKET PAL

CHRISTMAS AT DENTS

DENTS FACTORY

GIFT

SHOP

in Warminster is your one stop local shop for all your Christmas shopping.

Shorter days and colder nights remind us of the magic of Christmas and fun-filled New Year parties. It's the time of the year we meet friends and family, exchange gifts and celebrate the season with mince pies and mulled wine. It's when we remember

distant friends with Christmas cards. There has never been a more important time to live the good life by shopping locally and choosing sustainable gifts for family and friends that will last for years to come. Your local high street and its shop windows are adorned with

festive lights, baubles and garlands to capture the spirit and sparkle of Christmas past and present.

Dents Factory Gift Shop located in Warminster has a tempting display of presents for family and friends all with the added bonus of factory shop prices. Get gorgeous with glamorous fashion accessories for those festive parties or something more practical for a brisk Boxing Day country walk with friends and family or for the New Year commute.

Dents Factory Gift Shop is your one stop local shop for all your Christmas shopping with the benefit of free parking, disabled parking/access and dog friendly. The shop is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, closed Bank Holidays.

• dentsgloves.com

"There has never been a more important time to live the good life by shopping locally and choosing sustainable gifts"

Model wears leather gloves in 'Berry'

Model wears leather gloves in 'Country Green'

LOOKING AFTER YOUR PETS THIS WINTER

poisoning. Try to wash those paws and their tummy when you get back home to avoid any issues.

Christmas time also brings a lot of Christmas food, often including ingredients hazardous to our pets. With currants in cakes, chocolate under the tree and foods high in fat and salt sitting temptingly on counter-tops, our resourceful pets have many opportunities to over-indulge. Eating what they shouldn't can lead to pets having poorly tummies, poisoning and even conditions such as pancreatitis. Opting for more pet-friendly alternatives for your furry friends or taking every precaution to make sure they can’t access Christmas treats will ensure celebrations aren’t rudely interrupted.

While winter nights are fast approaching and we begin to wrap up warm on the sofa, it is important to remember the risks our pets face at this time of year. From decorating our Christmas trees, gorging ourselves on delicious food, and the ever-odious task of de-icing our cars in the morning, the festive season presents a range of hazards to our furry family members. At Garden Veterinary Group, we aim to provide all the advice and guidance you may need to navigate the winter months safely, without missing out on Christmas cheer.

A hazard well known by most is anti-freeze – even a small amount of this toxin is potentially fatal and can

cause irreparable damage leading to seizures and kidney failure. This is a particular risk for our feline companions who tend to find the sweet-tasting liquid while hiding under our cars. Try to check your own water coolant system for leaks and ensure correct and safe storage of all anti-freeze solutions. Keep an eye out for your pet exhibiting warning signs, such as vomiting or appearing drunk. The sooner treatment is received, the better their chances of survival.

Winter walks can also pose a hazard to our companions. Rock salt, used to make roads and pavements safer can lead to poorly pets. Ingestion from licking paws and grooming can lead to increased thirst, lethargy, vomiting and kidney damage due to salt

Our winter social media campaign will offer tips and advice so you feel confident in your beloved pets' safety at home, without compromising on fun! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for all the information you need on those sneaky winter-time hazards and how to avoid any festive pot-holes. Winter fun and winter safety can go hand in hand. We'd be delighted to show you how.

• gardenvets.co.uk

GARDEN VETS' veterinarian Katherine Williamson offers some tips to make sure your pets stay safe and well this festive season...

"Christmas time also brings a lot of Christmas food, often including ingredients hazardous to our pets."

Katherine Williamson

MAKE

OWN CHRISTMAS WREATH

A homemade Christmas wreath is a beautiful thing to behold and

are simpler to make than you might imagine. Here is our

1Secure some of the reel wire around the wreath frame - this will anchor it as you start to build up the moss. Push sections of moss about the size of your hand into the frame, securing each chunk with 3-4 wraps of reel wire. This is the base of the wreath and it is worth making it as sturdy as possible. Continue until you have filled the frame, securing each piece of moss as you go. Do not cut the wire.

by wrapping the reel wire around it to secure. With the next bunch, cover the previous stems to hide the join. Try to keep the bunches facing slightly outward - you want to maintain the whole in the middle. Cut and secure the reel wire when finished.

3When you have secured the bunches check the shape (you can always add smaller bunches if you have gaps). Decide on a centre and then loop a yard of ribbon through the centre and knot it at the end. Carefully turn your wreath over and secure the knot at the back of the wreath with pins (hair pins will do). Turn your wreath over again and cut another yard length and tie a bow at the front and centre.

2Put the wreath to one side and begin to cut stems from both eucalyptus plants - you want the pieces 10-15cm long. Mix the stems together and bind 5-6 into a little bunch. Secure this tightly with reel wire (from the other reel). Make 6-7 bunches (more if yours are smaller). Then attach each bunch to your wreath, fixing it in place

4Depending on your choice of foliage, you need to secure the smaller pieces. If you are using single stems, secure the wire around it, leaving two prongs to help you wrap it from front to back. If you are using little bunches of foliage, first secure them together and then add another piece of wire to help fix them to the wreath.

FEED THE BIRDS

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

When temperatures fall, birds use more energy fluffing up their feathers to stay warm and with short daylight hours there is less time to search for food. However, we can help by making food, fresh water and shelter available in our gardens.

At this time of year, put out food and water on a regular basis. Birds require high-energy (high-fat) foods during the cold winter weather to maintain their fat reserves to survive the frosty nights. Use only good-quality food and scraps.

When you feed wild birds always adjust the quantity given to the demand, and never allow uneaten foods to accumulate around the feeders. Once you establish a feeding routine, try not to change it as the birds that visit your garden will become used to it and time their visits to your garden accordingly.

SEED MIXTURES

There are different mixes for feeders, bird tables and for ground feeding. The better mixtures contain plenty of flaked maize, sunflower seeds and peanut granules.

Small seeds, such as millet, attract mostly house sparrows, dunnocks, finches, reed buntings and collared doves, while flaked maize is taken readily by blackbirds Tits and greenfinches favour peanuts and sunflower seeds. Mixes that contain chunks or whole nuts are suitable for winter feeding only. Pinhead oatmeal is excellent for many birds. Wheat

and barley grains are often included in seed mixtures, but they're really only suitable for pigeons, doves and pheasants, which feed on the ground and rapidly increase in numbers, frequently deterring smaller species.

OTHER SEEDS & NUTS

Black sunflower seeds are an excellent year-round food, and in many areas more popular than peanuts. The oil content is higher in black than striped ones, and so they are much better. Sunflower hearts (the husked kernels) are a popular no-mess food.

Nyjer seeds are small and black, rich in fat and with a high oil content. They need a special type of seed feeder however. They're a particular favourite of goldfinches (pictured) and siskins and are popular with tits, greenfinches, house sparrows, nuthatches and great spotted woodpeckers too. Crushed or grated peanuts attract robins, dunnocks

and even wrens Nuthatches and coal tits may hoard peanuts.

BIRD CAKES & BARS

Fat balls and food bars are excellent winter food. If they are sold in nylon mesh bags, always remove the bag before putting the fat ball out – the soft mesh can trap and injure birds.

LIVE FOODS

Mealworms are relished by robins and blue tits, and may attract other insect-eating birds such as pied wagtails. Mealworms are a natural food and you can feed them to birds throughout the year, though this can be expensive.

Good hygiene is vital in all seasons, or feeding may do more harm than good. To find out more about feeding birds in your garden, or to buy their wild bird food, go to the RSPB website.

• rspb.org.uk

MAKE YOUR OWN BIRD CAKE:

• Pour melted fat (suet or lard) onto a mixture of ingredients such as seeds, nuts, dried fruit, oatmeal, cheese and cake

• Use about one-third fat to two-thirds mixture. Stir well in a bowl and allow it to set in a container of your choice

• An empty coconut shell, plastic cup or tit bell makes an ideal bird cake ‘feeder’

• Or, you can turn it out onto your bird table when solid

Christmas is a time for giving, and with increasing financial pressures, Kathryn Smith Cowap, a Partner at WANSBROUGHS, looks at how, if you are able, you can make a tax-efficient cash gift to help a loved one this year.

SMALL GIFTS EXEMPTION

You can make gifts of up to £250 to any number of individuals per year, without any need to survive those gifts by seven years for their value to fall out of your estate.

ANNUAL EXEMPTION

If you wish to give away larger sums, you can give away up to £3,000 in a tax year and the gift’s value will immediately fall out of your estate.

You can also carry forward one unused annual exemption from the previous tax year, meaning you can make a gift of £6,000. This exemption cannot however be combined with the small gifts exemption.

Additionally, if there is a Christmasthemed wedding coming up, parents of the bride or groom can each give £5,000 to their child, whilst grandparents can give up to £2,500. Not a parent or a grandparent?

You can still gift up to £1,000 to the happy couple.

If you would like more information about this topic, please get in touch with our Private Client team via wealth@wansbroughs.com.

• wansbroughs.com

Kathryn Smith Cowap

“you can give away up to £3,000 in a tax year and the gift’s value will immediately fall out of your estate.”

PLANNING YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY

Whether you want to spend quality time with your loved ones, improve your well-being or find adventure and purpose, Luxeco Holidays can help. Luxeco is a local, independent company specialising in luxury, tailor-made holidays, with a focus on sustainability.

Luxeco has first-hand experience in over 65 countries, specialising in Asia, the Indian Ocean and North America; though they can send you anywhere in the world, helping you to gain value from your holiday by travelling in a non-conventional way. They’ll help you find those amazing local, family-run restaurants, and choose areas ‘off the beaten track’. As well as making memories that will last a lifetime, by holidaying this way you will have a positive impact on the

local environment. Whatever your deam holiday might be, Luxeco can help make that trip a reality.

WHY BOOK WITH LUXECO?

Luxeco are passionate about planning personalised holidays, ensuring utmost quality and value. They source the best suppliers for your destination, resulting in competitive pricing. By using an agency, your holiday is also fully ABTA and ATOL protected.

Your well-being is important; Luxeco provide excellent customer service from start to finish. You’ll be well looked after before, during and after your holiday at no extra cost to you. Check out their many Google reviews to see their high client satisfaction scores and get in touch today to book in a no-obligation

discovery call or chat over a cuppa. Call 01225 941 081 or email info@ luxecoholidays.co.uk - also be sure to follow them on social media for the latest travel news and inspiration.

• luxecoholidays.co.uk

Alicia from Luxeco Holidays can help you create your dream trip

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED FOSTERING?

Capstone Foster Care, an agency supporting vulnerable children across the region are calling for those with a spare room to consider fostering. The agency, which operates nationwide as well as locally, takes a holistic approach to fostering, offering therapeutic support to its children as well as foster carers, so support is always on hand as you begin your foster care journey.

Being a foster carer isn’t as hard as you might think. Considering these points is a great start:

• Are you over age 21?

• Do you have your own home or tenancy?

• Do you have a big heart?

• And no previous convictions of harm to a child,

• Do you have some experience of caring for children?

• And a spare room solely for the use of your foster child?

If you meet all these criteria, then perhaps it is time to consider fostering and make a difference to the life of a child. Capstone foster carers Margaret & Hugh say, “As foster carers with Capstone Foster Care we really feel part of the team. Our experience has been

amazing, and we have always been supported. The social workers are always there when you need them and never let us down.”

Capstone will be here every step of the way and that first step starts by getting in touch. Simply call 0800 012 4004 or visit the website.

• capstonefostercare.co.uk

Fostering can make a huge difference to the life of a child

Bath Rugby has announced both Ted Hill and Alfie Barbeary have signed longterm contracts with the club, with prop Valeriy Morozov and lock Fergus Hill-Warner also signed up for the rest of the season.

23-year-old Hill, who made his debut in the victory over Northampton Saints in late October, and who won Player of the Match last month in the victory against Leicester Tigers, will bolster Bath’s back row for years to come. Hill came through the academy at Worcester and made his debut aged just 18. His development saw him earn his first England cap just over a year later. Hill was appointed Warriors’ youngest ever club captain at 21.

Alfied Barbeary is a rising star of English rugby - Bath have beaten a number of rivals to the powerful number 8’s signature following Wasps’ entry into administration a number of weeks ago. Barbeary, 22, joins the club with immediate effect. Currently recovering from injury, he will hopefully be ready to make his debut in the coming weeks.

FIXTURE CHANGES

Gallagher Premiership fixtures for the second half of the 2022/23 season have been amended now the league has dropped down to 11 teams. A league-wide decision was made to ensure better spacing of home games for clubs, Premiership Rugby Cup matches are on weekends and there are appropriate rest weekends for players.

Ted Hill has

Following Bath’s home match against Newcastle Falcons on New Year’s Eve, the team will have a bye week at the beginning of 2023. After back-toback matches in the European Challenge Cup, they will return to Premiership action on Friday 27 January at Sale Sharks, a match live on BT Sport. Then the first two weekends in February see league-wide rest weekends and the Premiership Rugby Cup semi-finals before Bath host London Irish on the weekend of 17 February.

with Bath TV

.

be at the end of February before the team travel to Leicester to take on the Tigers at Welford TV TV

Wintry nights are fast approaching and the team at Vitality Day Spa are bringing festive cheer to their treatment menu with their new limited-edition treatment, Christmas Spice. Book now to avoid missing

SPICE AT

out on this popular indulgence, saturated with nostalgic aromas.

MOUNTAIN AIR

The team is also looking ahead to 2023 and preparing for the next treatment in the Wanderlust

Collection, Mountain Air. This delightful treatment refreshes both mind and body using invigorating massage in partnership with soothing hot stones. Revitalising hands and feet with a salt scrub followed by a warm oil massage from a natural candle.

Mountain Air is just what is needed to kick start the new year, blowing away overindulgent cobwebs while creating a calm and warm environment to soothe a busy mind. Inspired by fresh, mountainous regions, the products include wild mint, tea tree, rosemary, and peppermint. Enjoy this 50-minute luxury for £75. Available until 26 March 2023. Book online or contact Vitality Day Spa directly - it would also make a fantastic Christmas gift!

• vitalitydayspa.co.uk

Mountain Air is the new treatment in the spa’s Wanderlust Collection

image © Amber Louise Photograpy

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) SHINGLES

a) small squares of oak for church spires b) downy particles which accumulate under furniture c) small worthless apples remaining on the tree after a gathered crop

2) NOD

a) a cape b) to show appreciation c) the nape of the neck

3) QUIRK a) to squeal

b) the second swarm of bees in the same season c) to complain

4) NOGGING

a) a street brawl b) bricks laid in a projecting course c) a hedgehog

RHYMING SLANG ROOTS

Much of rhyming slang simply rhymes but these expressions take it further with the meaning carried across:

Borrow and beg (late 19th Century) an egg (the term enjoyed a fresh lease of life during the 2nd World War food-rationing period)

Give and take (20th Century) cake (no cake can be eaten that has not been given - if only by a shopkeeper - and taken. Cake also means money - ‘a cake of notes’: that too needs to be given and taken)

Satin and silk (American Pacific Coast 20th Century) milk (suggestive of this liquid food’s smoothness)

Army and navy (early 20th Century) gravy (which was plentiful at meal times in both services)

Didn’t ought (late 19th Century) port (wine) (based on the simpering of ladies who, when asked to’ have another’, replied that they ‘didn’t ought‘)

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

Q5: What do they call Santa Claus in Italy?

Images by Freepik

Lasting Power of Attorney

PROMOTION

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

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

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT SIZE (SMALL BUSINESSES RULE!)

Afew days ago the Chancellor made his Autumn Statement and whether or not you agree politically with the measures he has announced it seems that we are all in for a very uncomfortable time financially and economically. With that in mind I’d like to encourage you all to go out this Christmas and spend as much money as you possibly can but with local businesses. We are one of these small, local businesses and while it might not be practical for you to spend specifically with us (unless perhaps you want to advertise the fact that Aunt Marion is coming for Christmas lunch for the first

small company you aren’t buying Jeff Bezos another yacht or Mark Zuckerberg another apartment. You are buying a child a Christmas present or the one holiday they may get with their hard working parents that year”.

It saddens us a bit when we speak to some small business owners who espouse the local ethos who don’t use us to promote themselves (that bit is OK!) only to see an advert for them on social media two days later. We understand the coverage they get might serve them well but to beat the drum of shopping locally and then paying to advertise with one of the world’s largest multinationals (their parent company

media posts (for free!) and writing them a positive online review. Your efforts could make someone’s day and help your favourite small business stay in business.

I’m obviously aware of the fact that sometimes convenience wins out. Sometimes it’s easier to order something online and get it delivered the next day. Sometimes it’s easier to go to a supermarket where everything is under one roof. I’m not expecting this little piece to change people’s shopping habits completely but maybe just once a week - or even once a month - if you don’t already, consider spending some of your hardearned cash at a local, independent business and maybe help that person realise that all their hard work really is worth it.

time in five years) there always are, especially in our Christmas issue, loads of small and medium-sized local businesses that could do with a little help at the moment.

A massive vote of thanks goes to those people who, even in these tough times, continue to see the value in our little publication, enough to pay to advertise their, pub/restaurant/venue/shop or whatever venture they have with us. We have around 80 local businesses in this edition all of whom could do with your support. Someone once said something along the lines of “When you spend with a

Meta’s annual revenue was $117.9 billion last year!) instead of a local small business like us (we are based in Trowbridge and have a staff of four) is a bit galling to be honest.

Next time you are walking or driving through one of our lovely market towns, whether it be Trowbridge, Melksham, Westbury, Warminster, Frome or Corsham, perhaps just make a mental note of the smaller, independent shops you see and pop in at some point even to just spend a fiver. As well as buying locally, you can also help by telling family and friends about them, sharing their social

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and a special shout out to everyone who has a small business and especially our lovely, lovely advertisers without whom we couldn’t do what we love doing.

Phil Rockliffe

“A massive vote of thanks goes to those people who, even in these tough times, continue to see the value in our little publication”