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your FREE copy
juLY 2015
The
West Wilts magazine YOUR 16-PAGE
SUMMER adventure GUIDE #6WEEKSOFSUMMER
win
A PAIR OF TICKETS TO YEOVILTON AIR DAY ! see p15
+ AL FRESCO DINING BBQ INSPIRATION BATH RUGBY + MUCH MORE
food & drink // news // Home & gardens // eVenTs // commenT
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July 2015 // WELCOME From days out at the farm to motor museums, adventure playgrounds to ancient ruins, our 16-page Summer Activities feature has more ideas than ever before for fun family days out over the school holidays. Head to page 39 to find out more, and be sure to enter our competition to win a pair of tickets to Yeovilton Air Day too, details are on page 15! We’ve already been lucky enough to enjoy some lovely sunshine this summer, and as the weather warms up even further we can look forward to long lunches and drawn out dinners dining al fresco. In West Wilts we are spoilt for choice when it comes to fine dining venues in which to do it too. Find out more from page 21. Alternatively, be inspired to create your own al fresco dining experience with our barbecue recipe ideas from page 29.
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39
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Away from family fun and food we’ve all your usual favourites, including plenty of inspiration on the home front in this bumper 84-page special issue. Turn the page to read all about it. See you next month.
29
LOCAL LISTINGS FOR JULY................................................................6 LOCAL NEWS ................................................................................................12
HOMES & GARDENS Home Inspirations........................................................................................58 Active Plumbing Supplies......................................................................60
FOOD & DRINK Eat the Seasons..............................................................................................28 Barbecue Recipes.........................................................................................29 Food News ........................................................................................................33
Coppice Guild.................................................................................................62 Darling Interiors.............................................................................................66 BATH RUGBY Bath Rugby international call ups.....................................................78
Meet the Chef at Homewood Park .........................................................34 PUZZLES...........................................................................................................80 Riverford Recipe Veg Boxes............................................................................36 FEATURES Al Fresco Dining ............................................................................................21 Summer Activities........................................................................................39 Published by Wired Publishing Editor Lisa Rockliffe Contributors Craig Gates-Mutton, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Andy Diffey
LAST WORD ...................................................................................................82 Read online www.wired-publishing.co.uk Join us on Facebook... Wired Publishing Follow us on Twitter... wiredpublishing Advertising Enquiries Andy Diffey Email andy@wired-publishing.co.uk Tel 01225 807775 Website www.wired-publishing.co.uk Address 20 Azalea Drive, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 9GG
This magazine is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests. Please recycle it when you are done, or pass it on! The publishers shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by the failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or misprints. Reproduction of this magazine in whole, or in part is strictly prohibited wihout prior permission of the publishers. Front Cover: The Pirate Galleon at Bowood courtesy Bowood House & Gardens
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WWI EXHIBITION at The Laverton, Laverton, B Bratton rattton R Road, oad, Wes W Westbury estbury
Monday July 6th Friday July 17th
FREE DISPLAYS DISPL LAYS & EXHIBITIONS
Disco Discover ver the stories behind W estbury’s Great Great War, W War arr, Westbury’s experience army army recruiting recruiting 1914 style and research research your your family’s family’s WWI history. history.
ALSO EXHIBITING
Wiltshire Wiltshire Council’s Council’s ‘Waall of Remembrance’ Remembrance’ ‘Wall Wiltshiree at W War’s Wiltshir War’ ar’s ‘Call to Arms’ Arms’’ Display Displaay Wiltshir Wiltshiree Soldiers’ Exhibition Suppor ted By
For F or opening hours and mor moree information call 01373 822232 or visit www www.westburytowncouncil.gov.uk w.we ..westburrytowncouncil.gov.uk
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// listings
JULY 2015 MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 www.melkshamassemblyhall.com For full listings go to the website.
GLYNDEBOURNE LIVE: DIE ENTFUHRUNG AUD DEM SERAIL 19 July, 5pm Tickets: £15 Mozart's take on the glittering Orient: a stirring tale of abduction, escape and forgiveness.
CINDERELLA (Cert: U) 11 July, 10.30am Tickets: £4 When her father passes away, young Ella finds herself at the mercy of her cruel stepmother and her daughters. Ella's fortunes begin to change after meeting a dashing stranger. A ROYAL NIGHT OUT (Cert: 12A) 17 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £6 On VE Day 1945, as peace extends across Europe, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret are allowed out to join the celebrations. AGE OF ADELINE (Cert: 12A) 23 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £6 A young woman, born at the turn of the 20th century, is rendered ageless after an accident.
WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk For full listings go to the website. BELOVED CLARA - IN AID OF THE NATIONAL OSTEOPOROSIS SOCIETY 11 July, 7pm Tickets: £25 (Concs: £24) A program of music and readings examining the intense relationship between Robert Schumann, his wife Clara and Johannes Brahms.
11 JULY • CINDERELLA (U) MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL WHIPLASH (Cert: 15) 23 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £7 An utterly riveting, emotionally intense study of the pursuit of jazz virtuosity. FROZEN SING-A-LONG (Cert: PG) 24 July, 10.30am Tickets: £3 Join the fun with this amazing sing-along and join in the magic like never before.
POUND ARTS CENTRE Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 www.poundarts.org.uk For full listings please go to the website.
album, Let It Break, includes songs of love, loss and loneliness: this is music for emotional immersion. TALLULAH SWIRLS - WHEN EGGY MET PEGGY 11 July, 3pm Tickets: £7 (Concs: £6) Family: £24 Join Eggy the egg and Peggy the pea, a rock-n-rolling raspberry, cha cha-ing carrots and a blue horse in this deliciously funny, original twist on The Princess & The Pea. RICHARD UTTLEY 15 July, 1pm Tickets: £7 (Concs: £6) YCAT pianist Richard Uttley performs a programme including Beethoven, Matthew Kaner, Chopin and Scriabin. BATH OPERA - LA TRAVIATA BY VERDI 18 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £14 (Concs: £10) It's the 21st Century and Violetta and her high-flying city friends are partying. Violetta's addictions have weakened her body, but her spirit demands freedom to enjoy the pleasures of life. Enter Alfredo, and the struggle between love and pleasure begins...
TROWBRIDGE CIVIC CENTRE St Stephen's Place, Trowbridge BA14 8AH Box Office: 01225 765072 www.trowbridgecivic.co.uk
HORRIBLE HISTORIES: BARMY BRITAIN (PART 3) 18 & 19 July, 2 & 4pm GEMMA HAYES Tickets: £15 10 July, 7.30pm Barmy Britain is back with a brand new Tickets: £12 (Concs: £11) show full of crazy new characters and rude Singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes has a powerful yet fragile voice. Her fourth studio new rulers from Britain’s barmy past! & .'+( , &* $#)*#&!) #&*' +) *
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// listings MERLIN THEATRE Bath Rd, Frome BA11 2HG Box Office: 01373 465949 www.merlintheatre.co.uk SUZANNE (Cert: 12A) 8 July, 8pm Tickets: £6 The extraordinary performances lend immense power to this ambitious, heartfelt drama.
THE ATHENAEUM CENTRE 18-20 High St, Warminster, BA12 9AE Box Office: 01985 213891 www.theath.org.uk SUMMER SIZZLER COMEDY NIGHT 4 July, 8pm Tickets: £10 Starring Tom Glover with supporting acts Chris Chopping & Richard James The Hoosiers
GLENN TILBROOK 11 July, 7.45pm Tickets: £17.50 One of the finest singer-songwriters of his generation, presenting songs from his superb solo albums and the famous Squeeze back catalogue NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: EVERYMAN 16 July, 7pm Tickets: £15 (Concs: £10) Everyman is successful, popular and riding high when Death comes calling. THE MERCHANT OF VENICE: RSC FILMED THEATRE SCREENING 22 July, 7pm Tickets: £15 (Concs: £10) A wronged father, and despised outsider, Shylock looks to exact the ultimate price for a deal sealed in blood.
FROME MEMORIAL THEATRE Christchurch Street West, Frome BA11 1EB Box Office: 01373 462795 www.fromememorialtheatre.org.uk
'ALLO' ALLO - CHARITY PREVIEW 15 - 18 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £15 Listen very carefully, I will say this only once! A special charity event in aid of The ABF Soldiers’ Charity FINDING VIVIAN MAIER 22 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 The extraordinary documentary about Vivian Maier, an eccentric nanny and secret social photographer.
LACOCK ABBEY Lacock, Wiltshire SN15 2LG Tel: 01249 730459 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Normal NT admission costs apply LACOCK & MAGNA CARTA Until 31 August A small display in the abbey, exploring the history of Lacock’s 1225 Magna Carta, in partnership with Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre ESCAPE ARTIST 18 July - 3 January New photography exhibition by Fran Forman in the Fox Talbot Museum gallery
DANCEWORKS 10 - 12 July, various times Tickets: £10 (Concs: £8) Danceworks celebrate their 21st Anniversary THE GREAT ESCAPE FAMILY TRAIL 1 July - 1 October with a spectacular dance showcase. Outdoor trail in the abbey grounds. JETHRO 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU’RE 11 ¾ 24 July, 7.30pm DISCOVERY DEN Tickets: £19.50 Every once in a while there comes along a 20 July - 28 August true comedy genius. Such is the case with Weekday family drop-in activities in the abbey’s Tudor courtyard. westcountry legend Jethro..
CHEESE & GRAIN 5 The Bridge, Frome BA11 1AR Box Office:: 01373 455420 www.cheeseandgrain.com THE HOOSIERS 10 July, 8pm Tickets: £17.50 With a number 1 album & 2 top 10 singles under their belt, UK based ‘The Hoosiers’ look set to provide Frome with another show to remember! LATER...WITH FROME COLLEGE 14 July, 7.15pm Tickets: £6 (Concs: £4) Students showcase their diverse talents across three stages in a fantastic cabaret style programme of pop, jazz, acoustic, classical, choral percussion and electronic music REACH FOR THE BUBBLES! 18 July, 12 noon Tickets: Adults £5.50. Children £3.50 Reach for the Bubbles is all about reaching out to young families who’d like to party but struggle to go out. SCHOOL DISCO 24 July, 8pm Tickets: £5 Enjoy an 80s school disco with classic hits from DJ Bonkers Beale. GRETCHEN PETERS 31 July, 8pm Tickets: £21.50 A Cambridge Folk Festival warm up concert!
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// listings THE THREE HORSESHOES Frome Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1LA Tel: 01225 865876 All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm THE BRASSICK BEARS 16 July BITE THE HAND 17 July THE HOT 27’S 18 July THE MIKE HODDINOTT BLUES ALL-STARS 19 July THE REFUSAL 24 July UNCLE MORBIUS 25 July THE LEWIS CRAVEN BAND 26 July
BOA FOLK CLUB Cellar Bar, Swan Hotel, 1 Church Street Bradford on Avon BA15 1LN www.boafolkclub.org.uk All gigs are FREE and start at 8pm SINGAROUND 7 & 21 July, 8pm REG MEUROSS & JESS VINCENT 14 July Two singer/ songwriters on top of their game. SIAN PENLINGTON & ROB COLQUHOUN 28 July Impeccable singing & mesmerising guitar.
SEEND ACOUSTIC CLUB Rusty Lane, Seend, SN12 6NS www.seendacoustic.org All gigs start at 8pm THE CROUTONS 15 July, 8pm Tickets: £4 Stunning three-part harmonies with support from Iain Spence. 10 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
10 JULY • GEMMA HAYES • POUND ARTS CENTRE
OTHERS BOA FRINGE FESTIVAL 2 - 16 July Various Venues The Fringe Festival is back. More than a dozen venues are playing host to comedy, music, art, cinema, literature and more. From Wild West Weekends to Open Mic Nights and a floating cinema on the Kennet & Avon Canal there is loads going on all over town. www.fringeboa.co.uk. STEEPLE ASHTON INDEPENDENCE DAY FROLIC The Manor Gardens, BA14 6EW 4 July, 6.30pm Tickets: from £10 For more information call 01380 870602 or email Aeberhard@btinternet.com. THE PHILOMEL SINGERS WITH THE MEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL CHOIR Holy Trinity Church, Trowbridge BA14 9AA 4 July, 7.30pm FREE Exciting variety of songs with all profits going to the Children's Hospice South West. Email philomel@btinternet.com or phone Fiona Wood on 01373 858878. TWO BALD MEN AND A FRINGE 6 July, 8pm The Swan Hotel, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LN Poetry, storytelling, comedy, slander and lies - a fun-packed, spoken word extravaganza with an open mic session. Featuring The Helly-BOARS (Steve Williams, Merv Grist and John Christopher Woods) plus guests.
SUTTON VENY FLOWER SHOW Memorial Field, Sutton Veny, BA12 7AP 18 July, 2 - 5pm Wonderful flowers, a variety of stalls & fun activities, dog show, bouncy castle, climbing wall, classic cars and lots more! www.suttonvenyflowershow.co.uk VILLAGE PUMP FOLK FESTIVAL 24 - 26 July Day Tickets: from £30 adults, £5 children This great festival offers visitors the very best in folk, roots and acoustic music around; opportunities for participation in the VP choir or open mic slots together with a full programme for children. www.villagepumpfolkfestival.co.uk. GUDGEON GUIDES: WEEKLY WALKING TOURS OF BRADFORD-ON-AVON Every Sunday, 2.30pm Tickets: £6 (Concs: £4) Meet in Westbury Gardens for a 2 hour tour led by a local Blue Badge Guide.
WILTSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS Tel: 07541 762497 www.wiltshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk BRADFORD ON AVON 16 & 26 July DEVIZES 4 July TROWBRIDGE 10 & 24 July WARMINSTER 3 & 17 July
Send your event listings into us at: info@wired-publishing.co.uk
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WWM018
OUTDOOR THEATRE AT MANOR FARM
Gates open 5.30pm, Performance 7.30pm at Manor Farm, Corsley BA12 7QE
Adults £14, Child (9-16yrs) £7
* NOT VALID IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER OFFERS. VALID ON SATURDAYS BEFORE 8PM. EXPIRY DATE 31.08.15. ROAR
Licensed Bar, Supper 6-7pm (£8)
t 01373 832113 e claire@manorfarmcorsley.com
www.theelizabethanevening.com
Find Love This Summer... !# $
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Saturday 1 August 2015
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// local news
OPEN AIR THEATRE
A
Manor Farm in Corsley is gearing up for another fantastic night of open air theatre, this time playing host to The Three Musketeers...
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w Open-Air Touring Theatre Illyria are performing The Three Musketeers at this year’s event
DOROTHY HOUSE SUMMER EVENT LINE UP D orothy House has a marquee in their grounds in July with a whole host of events taking place! Pit your brains against the rest at a Quiz Night on Friday 3 July. Listen to an historical talk on the Hidden Histories of West Country Inns from renowned local authors Kirsten Elliott and Andrew Swift on Saturday 4 July. Delight in An Afternoon of Jazz & Mash on Sunday 5 July. Laugh your socks off at a Comedy Night with hilarious live stand up acts on Tuesday 7 July. Chill out at the Ladies Pamper Evening on Thursday 9 July hosted by Cow Parsley. Finally the biggest event of the month is the Summer Country Fayre, which as ever will be full of stalls, crafts and more on Saturday 11 July. For more information and to book tickets please visit the website. • www.dorothyhouse.co.uk
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local news //
A
fter a huge success last year, a near sell out evening, Illyria return to the historical Manor Farm in Corsley to perform Alexandre Dumas’ The Three Musketeers as part of An Elizabethan Evening. Dumas takes us to a sweeping panorama of 17th Century France at war. Young D’Artagnan is desperate to join the King’s Musketeers. He plunges headlong into a thrilling adventure, dodging Cardinal Richelieu and crossing swords with the deadly seductress Milady de Winter. This production is a whirlwind of excitement, broad comedy and ingenious story-telling. Romance, swashbuckling, intrigue, murder, betrayal, revenge.... It’s got the lot!
COIFFURE OPENS IN WARMINSTER
Come and enjoy a pre performance two course sit down supper served by wenches and serenaded by the Calico Jack strolling players. Gardens open at 5.30pm, supper (which must be pre booked) is served from 6-7pm and the performance begins at 7.30pm. Manor Farm is a stunning Elizabethan manor house set in rolling countryside. It was originally built by Sir John Thynne as part of the Longleat Estate. His widow went to live there and subsequently married Carew Raleigh, Sir Walter’s brother. Sir Walter was a regular visitor and took refuge at Manor Farm when out of favour at court. Tickets are now available: Adults £14, children £7, supper £8, and there promises to be great excitement and enthusiasm for the Best Dressed Musketeer competition! For further information see the Elizabethan Evening website, call Claire da Costa on 01373 832113 or email claire@manorfarmcorsley.com. • www.theelizabethanevening.com
DRAGON BOAT RACING!
O
n Saturday 11 July between 10am - 4pm, teams of dragon boat racers, supported by over 100 spectators will descend upon Monkton Park, Chippenham to compete in the 7th Annual Dragon Boat Racing event. Led by the rhythmic beat of a drum, teams of up to 16 synchronized paddlers (and one drummer) will race 250 metres along the River Avon, many in fancy dress, in 20-foot dragon boats. The event brings social groups and businesses alike down to the river to have fun and compete, whilst raising money for their favourite charities. So far over £65,000 has been raised for local charities and community groups. Absolutely no previous experience is required. So if you’re a veteran paddler or a first timer you’re bound to have a fun day out, as there are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. • www.rotary-chippenham-wv.org.uk
O
n Tuesday 21 July Coiffure will be opening their latest hair salon at 19 Market Place, Warminster, formally Paul’s of Warminster. As an established brand Coiffure has an evitable reputation for delivering the highest standards in haircare within a smaller urban environment. All stylists undertake a rigorous selection process ensure only the best become members of the team. As a Paul Mitchell Exclusive salon Coiffure boasts two members of the acclaimed PM Art Team participating in national hair shows, events, and being responsible for training other stylists throughout the UK. Business owner Ian says “The whole team are very excited about our new salon in Warminster. We believe we offer something very special and unique to our clients. Not only do we offer unrivalled hairdressing and world class service we also insist on extras you may not normally find”. Coiffure embraces the latest technology offering clients online booking, either through their website or their app, SMS reminders and an exclusive loyalty scheme. Download their app by searching Coiffure in your App store or visit them online www.coiffurehair.co.uk. To book your appointment visit their website, download their app or give them a call on 01985 215808. Alternatively you can also pop into their Frome salon, based at 17 Cheap Street, Frome. • www.coiffurehair.co.uk
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competition //
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO YEOVILTON AIR DAY! Enter our competition for your chance to win a pair of adult tickets to the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day on Saturday 11 July!
T
he intensity, drama and spectacle on offer at the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day in Somerset on Saturday 11 July will be an experience not to be missed. The Royal Navy’s premier award-winning airshow is one of the region's most notable one day events, attracting 35,000 visitors, and returns this summer with an actionpacked day out for all. RNAS Yeovilton was commissioned as HMS Heron on 18 June 1940 and Air Day 2015 offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate 75 glorious years. Over 5 hours of flying displays will feature historic naval aircraft such as the Swordfish, Seafire and Sea Vixen along with their modern day counterparts in spectacular role demonstrations and unique flypasts to acknowledge the contribution by RNAS Yeovilton squadrons to Protect Our Nation’s Interests. Other UK military aircraft will take part such as the Red Arrows, Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight as well as foreign display teams such as the
Spanish Air Force’s Patrulla Aguila and frontline fighters from the Czech Air Force and French Navy. There will also be displays from a Canberra, Hunter and an extremely rare appearance in the UK by a MiG-15. The Vulcan bomber will be making its very last thunderous appearance at Yeovilton before it retires at the end of the display season. The flying display might be Air Day’s centrepiece but there is a huge array of other attractions too, from engineering fairs to the defence technology exhibitions and service displays in which visitors can view equipment and hear about the roles of station personnel and their departments. There will also be a whole host of trade stands selling everything from military paraphernalia to local produce. Arena performances will include The Band of HM Royal Marines and the hotly contested Field Gun competition. For the thrillseekers -
“The Vulcan bomber will be making its very last thunderous appearance at Yeovilton before it retires at the end of the display season.”
simulators, fairground rides and helicopter pleasure flights cannot fail to excite. Advance Ticket Prices are £20 for adults, £6 for children (5-15 years). • www.royalnavy.mod.uk/yeovilton-airday
COMPETITION For your chance to win one of THREE PAIRS of tickets to Yeovilton Air Day just email your answer to this question to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk. Mark your entry as AIR DAY COMP and be sure to leave your contact details so we can get in touch with you if you win. Good luck!
WHAT ARE THE ROYAL AIR FORCE AEROBATIC TEAM BETTER KNOWN AS? A) RED ARROWS B) WHITE JETS C) BLUE DARTS Closing date for entries is 07/07/15. Entrants must be 18+. Entrants may be added to our mailing list. If you would prefer not to be added state NO INFO on your entry.
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// local news
Join the Circuit of Bath Walk
H
omeless charity Julian House is inviting you to join the Circuit of Bath Walk on Sunday 27 September. Split into 5 sections, you can choose to walk between 2 to 20 miles of this circular route, which takes in some fantastic countryside around the edge of the city of Bath. A shuttle bus service allows you to get back to your start point. As participants can start at any of the five checkpoints and choose to walk either clockwise or anti-clockwise it doesn’t feel like a mass participation walk and walkers will be able to make the most of the stunning views. Detailed route instructions are supplied on the day as are water and treats for dogs - who are very welcome to join in. The walk is a great day out in itself but participants will also be giving a welcome boost to the charity’s work.
David Hempleman-Adams supporting Circuit of Bath Walk on Solsbury Hilll
Event organiser Cathy Adcock explains “We really want participants to have a really wonderful day walking and enjoying the views. However, the much needed sponsorship they will be raising on the back of this event will help all the projects which Julian House has developed to support those or are homeless or facing exclusion.” Entry to this event is free but all
participants are asked to raise sponsorship using official sponsor forms or online giving. The event is open to people of all ages and one section, the buggy friendly canal path between Bathampton and the Canal Visitors Centre at Limpley Stoke, will make an enjoyable walk for young families. • www.julianhouse.org.uk
Greenhill Cottage Gallery Events
T
he Greenhill Cottage Gallery is moving on and evolving. It has recently added fabulous ceramics and silver jewellery from Cornwall and a range of textile jewellery plus new works from their regular artists. With the warmer weather in mind, proprietor Martyn Slade has also welcomed artist April Barlow, whose ‘Inside Out’ collection of garden art can be seen within the grounds of the gallery. During the Bank Holiday Craft Fair Martyn was delighted to welcome a Tesla Model S Electric Car for viewing and test drives, this proved a great success and he hopes to repeat this in the near future. Over the coming months there are a series of events being held within the gallery – the first
of which is ‘The Mower Trio’. Starring Mike Mower - of Sticky Fingers fame Rachel Kerry and Mathew Mower they will be playing live on Friday 24 July. This will be followed by Leo Aylan in
September, who will entertain with his prose and poetry, and a Christmas Special in December. • www.greenhillcottagegallery.com
Greenhll Cottage Gallery has recently added a host of new works
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Kevin and Louise Fraser are delighted to welcome you to their charming 19th Century pub. A traditional village pub in the heart of the idyllic village of Bromham.
FOOD SERVED ALL DAY (12-9pm DAILY) SEE WEBSITE FOR ALL OUR MENUS At The Greyhound we have a beautiful country garden complete with bouncy castle and lots of toddler toys - weather permitting.
THE GREYHOUND SPECIAL LUNCH MENU
MAIN MEALS £7.50 PUDDING £3.50 From our set lunch menu. Valid until August 31 2015 (excluding Bank Holidays). Available Monday to Friday lunchtimes. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. T+Cs apply.
✃
family barbecue Saturday 25 July (1pm start) To celebrate the start of the school holidays we’re hosting a fantastic family barbecue. Enjoy some tasty food, live music, a bouncy castle for the kids and fun for all ages!
CALL FOR DETAILS & TO BOOK YOUR TABLE
✃
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THE THREE
HORSESHOES From leather jackets to suits, work boots to shiny shoes and mohicans to combovers, you’ll get a warm friendly welcome at The Three Horseshoes.
Live Music with Friday & Saturday night bands, and Sunday afternoon acoustic sessions. Good selection of Real Ales available too Beer Garden | Pub Games | Real Log Fires | Parking Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA
Tel 01225 865876 | Find us on Facebook
THE
WESTBROOK INN A warm welcome awaits...
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Enjoy breakfast, lunch, a traditional afternoon tea or AA Rosette fine dining on our beautiful terrace situated in the walled garden, overlooking the pool. 01225 703700 | reception@beechfieldhouse.co.uk | www.beechfieldhouse.co.uk
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food & drink //
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Enjoy dining outside at some of the best venues in West Wilts with our al fresco dining guide, perfect for lunch or dinner...
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// food & drink
Beechfield House Hotel
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Beechfield House Hotel, Restaurant & Gardens is a gem of a country house hotel, in Beanacre on the A350 between Melksham and Lacock. Recently awarded AA four stars, it has 24 ensuite bedrooms all refreshingly different from one another and named after trees found in the grounds.
Bowood has a number of enticing options for al fresco eating - all gloriously offset by 2000 acres of surrounding Grade I listed parkland.
The outdoor heated pool is gorgeous in the summer; the grounds are immaculate and contain a traditional walled garden, small arboretum and beautiful lawns with ponds. The terrace overlooks the pool and has a Mediterranean feel with a comfortable selection of tables, chairs and umbrellas to sit, chat and eat al-fresco! Enjoy breakfast, lunch, traditional afternoon tea, AA rosette fine dining or bar snacks in comfort and fresh air. Even better, it’s Two For One every Monday throughout the summer – giving you the perfect excuse to pay the hotel a visit. • www.beechfieldhouse.co.uk
For lunch, head to the Clubhouse Brasserie - tucked back from the 18-hole championship golf course. French windows open out onto a sheltered terrace where the relaxed mood is set off further by choices such as the
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Bowood club sandwich, antipasti board or a light and fresh summer vegetable lasagne. The Brasserie’s ‘Steak stones’ is a firm favourite; cooked by you at your table to create a real sense of occasion! The terrace is the perfect spot for outside dining at The Shelburne Restaurant & Bar. Enjoy anything from a glass of Pimms or a cocktail before dinner to a full three-course supper. Executive Chef Chris Tabbitt’s menu takes full advantage of the homegrown produce at Bowood and the plentiful seasonal offerings. A starter of seared
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The wisteria clad, stone exterior of The Muddy Duck hosts a series of traditional picnic tables for perching with a pint and some nibbles. To the rear, the garden offers colourful, bistro style seating taking in the beautiful farmland that surrounds it. The Muddy Duck offers a full dining menu in the garden, complete with funky oak furniture and full table service no need to get up and head to the bar; they can talk you through the menu, including the specials, and bring it to the table.
Lucknam Park
scallops with velvet butter sauce and a main course such as pan fried hake with clams, violette potatoes & seafood broth followed by rhubarb semifreddo with pistachio cream for example, is just the type of meal that can be looked to at this time of year. • www.bowood-hotel.co.uk
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The Brasserie is open 7 days a week, with a ‘must try’ summer menu now available. The two course set lunch menu costs from £22 and the 3 course set lunch from £24. There is also an á la carte menu available for lunch and dinner, and for those with serious will power, there is even a ‘healthy option’ menu! • www.lucknampark.co.uk
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Tel: 01225 742777
With its pretty terrace overlooking the walled gardens and Dovecote, The Brasserie at Lucknam Park is perfect for al fresco dining. The open kitchen and wood burning oven provide a sense of theatre as Executive Head Chef Hywel Jones prepares creative, seasonal dishes, using the finest ingredients, sourced locally where possible.
The Muddy Duck
With farms as neighbours and woods where the chefs can forage, the quality of produce is always on the chefs’ minds. The menu promotes seasonality, changing regularly to reflect where they can source the best produce from great suppliers and that includes their own garden. Theirs is also a working garden, producing herbs, edible flowers, eggs, and - new this year – homegrown vegetables, so you can really get a feel for what they do if you choose to enjoy the summer menu in the garden whilst the sun is shining – you might even see your next dinner growing in the beds beside you. • www.themuddyduckbath.co.uk
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Situated in the heart of beautiful Bradford on Avon, Sebastien’s Bistro has a unique waterfront location with a terrace by the river Avon. Located on the ground floor of the original Kingston Mill building, it has a light airy interior with large industrial windows overlooking the picturesque town centre. Chef and owner Sebastien Rouxel, born in Brittany, is trained in classical French cuisine. His menu revisits traditional French bistro dishes
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Situated in the heart of beautiful Bradford on Avon, Sebastien's Bistro has a unique waterfront location with a terrace by the River Avon and is perfect for spending time with family and friends or as the setting for a romantic meal for two.
ENJOY AL FRESCO DINING IN THE HEART OF BRADFORD ON AVON Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm & 6pm till late
sebastien's BISTRO, 2 Bridge Yard, Kingston Mill, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1EJ tel: 01225 938284 | www.sebastiens.co.uk | email: info@sebastiens.co.uk
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The Three Gables is well known for its top quality food, superb wines and the warm welcome provided by manager Vito Scaduto and his team.
Our courtyard garden is ideal for long lunches and romantic dinners.
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The Bisol family is one of the most prestigious wine growers in the Prosecco area, dedicated to the highest levels of quality. 4 courses incl wines £75 per head
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The Three Gables, St Margaret's Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1DA Telephone 01225 781666 www.thethreegables.com info@thethreegables.com
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// food & drink using locally produced seasonal ingredients. With its south facing, riverside terrace, Sebastien’s is the ideal spot for morning coffee, lunch or an evening meal with friends and family. Enjoy the views and the ducks paddling by. See the website for opening hours and menus. • www.sebastiens.co.uk
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on long, lazy summer evenings. The Three Gables is open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, and also hosts special events throughout the year. Call for more details. • www.thethreegables.com
Tel: 01225 781666
This delightful, independently run restaurant is one of Bradford on Avon’s favourite eateries, and has gained a great reputation for its quality food, superb wines and warm welcome, provided by manager Vito Scaduto and his team. The ground floor, lounge bar is the perfect place to relax in, whilst the restaurant, situated on the first floor, has elegant furnishings and an unbeatable view of the river, ensuring that any occasion becomes truly special. When the weather allows there is an amazing terrace on the restaurant level that’s perfect for al fresco dining
Woolley Grange Hotel
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There is something very uplifting and calming about dining outside on a balmy summer’s day. Woolley Grange’s sun filled terrace is nestled alongside their beautiful Jacobean manor house with honey coloured Bath stone surrounded by an ornamental garden, kitchen garden and numerous children’s play gardens. The menu has been developed to include classics such as a fantastic hamburger to more modern, lighter tastes of a charcuterie grazing board to share. Children have their own special menus for older and younger ages with portion sizes relating to their appetite. With toys to distract when needed, nets for pond dipping between courses and acres of grounds to explore afterwards, you can while a few hours away on the grounds too. The Orangery menu is available Monday to Saturday and traditional roast available each Sunday on the terrace and they advise booking in advance. • www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk
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The brasserie at Whatley Manor, Le Mazot, serves lunch and dinner every day of the week. When the weather is fine, you can enjoy your meal on the Kitchen Garden terrace, which is surrounded by borders filled with fragrant herbs and vegetables. It is the perfect setting for al fresco summer dining. Menus focus on seasonal produce, locally sourced whenever possible and created by the same expert kitchen team as the award winning restaurant ‘The Dining Room’, overseen by head chef Martin Burge. Why not combine your visit with one of the Whatley Manor Garden Tours? Running on 14, 28 July and 11 August, you can enjoy a private tour of the beautiful grounds from gardens and maintenance manager Andy Spreadbury. The day, which includes a two-course lunch, costs £44 per person. • www.whatleymanor.com
Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa
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seasons
Keeping you in the know as to what is coming into season each month is Neil Mortimer from Lovejoys Wholesale... e are now colouring up those salad dishes with multi coloured radish, red, golden and candy beetroot and fantastic heirloom tomatoes. They are all a feast for the eye, especially the wonderful deep red of the tomatoes. The taste is amazing too. To colour up your veggie dishes we have the multi coloured heritage carrots, they are a fantastic taste and can be served with local new potatoes and broad beans, delicious!
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Their are plenty of Cheddar strawberries and English raspberries now available from most of your local farm shops and village shops. If you can’t see any, ask them to order them in! I hope by now you have been able to benefit from the fruit of your labours - either from an allotment (get in touch with your local parish council to find out where you can rent an allotment - a great hobby), or from gro bags or pots in your garden or window ledge. Even if you only have a window cill you should be able to grow mustard and cress for a salad. Right now you can sow one more batch of carrots
and they will stay young enough to eat up to Christmas!
you like that bitter taste that you get from radichio or chicory, why not
“Right now you can sow one more batch of carrots and they will stay young enough to eat up to Christmas!” COMPETITION We’re giving away a FREE LOCAL VEG BOX again this month. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is email neil@lovejoyswholesale.com with a picture of fruit or veg you have grown yourself! If you have produced some salad crops and
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VEG BOX UP FOR GRABS!
forage some dandelion leaves to mix in? You could also collect the flowers and try making your own wine! @lovejoysuk Find out more at www.lovejoyswholesale.com
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recipes //
BARBECUE These delicious recipes offer great alternatives to the usual barbecue fare, and, as usual come courtesy of Waitrose.
SPICY STEAK FAJITAS WITH TOMATO SALSA
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Ingredients 2 x 200g Aberdeen Angus rib eye steaks ½ tsp olive oil ½ x 30g sachet Discovery Texan Fajita Spice Mix 4 soft flour tortillas 1 little gem lettuce, washed & sliced 4 tbsp tomato salsa 50g Cheddar, grated 4 tbsp soured cream 10g fresh coriander, stalks discarded
Serves 4
Method Rub the steaks with the olive oil and the spice mix. Barbecue them over hot coals for 2-3 minutes on each side until medium rare and seared on the outside. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.
Trim any excess fat from the steaks, then cut diagonally into thin slices. Divide between the warm tortillas. Top each tortilla with lettuce, salsa, cheese, soured cream and coriander, then roll up. Serve immediately.
Using a griddle, dry fry the tortillas, one at a time, for 15 seconds on each side until lightly coloured. Wrap in foil to keep warm, and set aside.
Cook's tips Slice the cooked steak into smaller pieces and serve in warmed taco shells, adding the same topping.
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LAMB KOFTAS & CUCUMBER DIP Serves 4 Ingredients 2 x 250g lean lamb mince 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano 1 tsp ground coriander Grated zest and juice of ½ lemon 1 small cucumber, diced 150g natural yoghurt 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 3 tbsp chopped fresh mint 12 bamboo skewers Method Preheat the grill or barbecue. Mix together the mince, oregano, coriander, lemon zest and seasoning. Divide the mixture into 12 and squeeze around 12 skewers.
BARBECUE VENISON RACK WITH SAFFRON & ROASTED PEPPER COUSCOUS Ingredients 2 racks of venison, each with 3 or 4 ribs 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary 2 tbsp olive oil Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 200g couscous Large pinch saffron 1 chicken stock cube 280g jar chargrilled peppers in olive oil, drained and cut into thin strips 25g pack fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped Method Place the venison in a large dish, add the rosemary, olive oil and lemon zest and juice and rub in well. Leave to
marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Cook's tips Soak the wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent them from burning.
Place the couscous, saffron and stock cube in a heatproof bowl and add 350ml boiling water. Stir well and set aside for 5 minutes until the water is absorbed and the couscous is tender. Remove the venison racks from the marinade then barbecue them over hot coals or under a preheated grill for 10–12 minutes on each side until crusty and well browned but still pink in the centre. Leave to rest for 5 minutes before carving into cutlets. Stir the peppers and parsley into the couscous. Serve with the venison.
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Serves 3-4
To make the dip, mix the cucumber with the yogurt, garlic, mint, lemon juice and seasoning. Grill the lamb koftas for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until well browned and cooked through. Serve the koftas in warm pittas with salad leaves and the mint dip.
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THE CONIGRE
Semington Road, Melksham Wiltshire SN12 6BZ
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I A 17th Century Grade II listed former farmhouse, The Conigre is a small family-run hotel full of rustic charm and character.
8 individually designed en suite bedrooms | Beautiful mature grounds Convenient access to Melksham town centre | Ideal business & meeting venue A perfect setting for weddings, special celebrations and wakes.
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+44 (0) 1225 702229 | +44 (0) 7969 801977 | enquiries@theconigre.co.uk | www.theconigre.co.uk
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food news //
New owners at The Conigre
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n April 2015, local couple Paul and Cynthia Watts and their family moved from Gastard to take over The Conigre at Melksham. Paul, who previously worked for a local wine storage company, oversees the day-today running of the hotel, assisted by his wife Cynthia, who juggles this with her legal career at a local law firm. A charming 17th Century former farmhouse, The Conigre has 8 individually-styled en suite guest rooms, a well equipped function room, conservatory, pretty grounds and a fully licensed bar/lounge. There is on-site parking and, being positioned on the edge of Melksham, it’s just a short stroll from numerous pubs, restaurants and local amenities. As well as good quality accommodation they offer ‘exclusive
use’ of their facilities for business meetings, a range of functions, small intimate weddings, special family occasions and celebrations of life/wakes. They provide a great standard of food tailored to each party’s specific needs and are happy to adapt to any special dietary requirements. At The Conigre they aspire to be original and friendly, making the most
of their beautiful setting, mature grounds and Grade II Listed property. If you are looking for somewhere with character and charm then you are sure to find it in abundance at The Conigre. To enquire about hosting an event, booking a room or simply to find out a little more, give Paul a call on 01225 702229. • www.theconigre.co.uk
Summer at Little Hartley Farm
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here is so much on offer at Little Hartley Farm this summer; it is certainly a winning contender for the perfect family day out. The children’s play area with the famous Hartley Farm red tractor and trailer slide is ideally located next to Home at Little Hartley, where you can pick up takeaway coffees and ice creams. There is a luscious selection of Marshfield ice creams, from Morello Cherry with White Choc Chunks, to Chocolate Heaven, to Honey and Stem Ginger; something to keep everyone happy. Home at Little Hartley has some stunning gifts to spoil a friend (or even yourself ), as well as a stylish selection of interiors from suppliers such as Biggie Best and Sophie Allport, all displayed on beautifully restored
French furniture. Hazel the rabbit is running free in her new rabbit run and is proving an extremely popular member of the Hartley family, and if you want to fully embrace your farm day out, why not walk along the
Hartley Farm Trail and meet the rest of the animals? Whatever you choose, there’s lots to see and do with the family at Hartley this summer. • www.hartley-farm.co.uk
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Meet the Chef
This month we interview SIMON ADDISON, the new head chef at Homewood Park Hotel on the outskirts of Freshford, near Bath. simple and I don’t believe in playing around with food too much. If you are cooking with broccoli, it should look and taste like broccoli!
When did you start cooking? The Marriot Hotel in Newport Pagnall, I was 17 then and 15 years on it’s still there I believe. I worked there parttime when I was at college.
Outside of cooking what are your interests? Motorbikes are my passion, I’ve ridden all over England and across Europe on my GSXR600. I find it therapeutic and stress relieving. I always try and make it to Donington and Cadwell for the big events too.
What was the first dish you mastered? Omelette, you can tell a lot about a person’s cooking by the way they make an omelette. It is so simple but so many people get it wrong. Do you have any preferred local suppliers? I like to look out for smaller producers; people who make their own cheese, or farms who sell their own eggs, or
The new summer hake dish
breed their own pigs like Downland Produce, who we’re speaking to about supplying us with our own bespoke sausages. What is your favourite dish on the current menu? I love our pan roasted hake with sprouting broccoli, summer truffle, almond pesto and scapes, which are the flowerstalks of garlic. We put
When you cook for friends, what’s on the menu? I like to cook a large pot of something, like perhaps a big bowl of chilli and some braised rice and flatbreads. Nothing too fancy but food that is really tasty. What’s your favourite kitchen gadget? I’d have to say a Thermo mix. They blend, they heat, they rarely go
“you can tell a lot about a person’s cooking by the way they make an omelette. It is so simple but so many people get it wrong.” those on and also add a sauce made with roasted bones and butter so it turns golden and has a wonderful deep flavour. Do you have your own food philosophy? To buy locally where possible, stick to the seasons and use produce when it’s at its best. I like to keep things
wrong, they’re easy to clean and the latest one you can even make yoghurt with! What is your guilty pleasure? Anything with meringue! Snowballs, lemon meringue pie, I love it all. To make a reservation at Homewood Park call 01225 809222. • www.homewoodpark.co.uk
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Riverford Veg Recipe Boxes LISA ROCKLIFFE reviews the NEW Vegetarian Recipe Boxes available from Riverford Home Delivery. y household, like most others across the UK, eats too much meat. Chicken, sausages, mince, steak, roasts, burgers, bacon, you name it, we’ll have it. It’s not that we don’t eat vegetarian meals, it’s just that our repertoire is limited, restricted to soups, vegetable chilli, an arrabiata pasta, a veg stir fry and one or two others. It’s a little embarrassing to be sure, but it is honest. So when I heard about the Veg Recipe Boxes on offer from Riverford, which come complete with everything you need and comprehensive instructions, I leapt at the chance to give it a try.
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The three dishes I received in my box were asparagus and stilton tart (with fennel, orange, hazelnut and rocket salad), Moroccan chickpeas and spinach (with herby couscous) and summer greens and pasta (with chilli, pine nuts and sheep’s cheese). This was what was available that week. Every week, depending on what’s in season, you get a different combination of dishes. Everything was included, from the bumper organic veggies that were to be the stars of the show to the 1tbsp of ras al hanout I would need in the chickpea dish. Even the chilled ingredients were delivered, with their own cooler, to my door. On the convenience rating this is a 10/10. I would consider myself a reasonably competent cook but there was nothing difficult here; the instructions are straightforward even for a novice. You are given a time limit in which to cook the dishes (5 days or so), how long it’ll take to prepare and cook,
Asparagus & stilton tart with fennel, orange, hazelnut and rocket salad
“Every week, depending on what’s in season, you get a different combination of dishes.” what kitchen utensils are required and how many people the recipe will serve. The instructions were simple to follow and took you through step by step. It was exciting too. I was cooking with seasonal asparagus and fennel bulbs, incorporating preserved lemons, olives and ras al hanout into my cooking. Not only that but it was wonderful to prepare a meal you know is packed full of goodness. And the taste? Fab. You really can taste the difference. The veg is packed full of flavour, and used in an
original and delicious way. I’ve kept the recipe cards, and we’ll be ordering our next veg box soon. The Vegetarian Recipe Box costs £33 and contains three meals to serve 2 people. Riverford also offer a Quick Recipe Box which promises meals on the table within 30 minutes and a Original Recipe Boxes too. Find out more and order on the website. • www.riverford.co.uk
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summer activities //
YOUR 16-PAGE
SUMMER GUIDE #6WEEKSOFSUMMER
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// summer activities
BATH POSTAL MUSEUM 27 Northgate Street, Bath BA1 1AJ As well as giving the history of post from ancient times to the present there is also a large collection of items connected to the City of Bath’s major contribution to the development of the national Postal Service. Two 18th century far-seeing Bath men, reproduced on film, appear from portraits to explain how they were involved. Also explained is how their innovations were copied internationally. Exhibits include: A varied display entitled ‘In the Post’ includes many of the artefacts invented at the time. Postal scales, old typewriters, stamp boxes etc. Also don’t miss the WWI Centenary display including ‘Letters from the Deep’, featuring letters recovered from WWI wrecks. 01225 460333 | www.bathpostalmuseum.co.uk
BOWOOD HOUSE & GARDENS Derry Hill, Calne SN11 0LZ Summertime will undoubtedly provide a high point to this year’s 40th anniversary of Bowood House & Gardens first opening to the public. Just think of picnicking within 100 acres of Pleasure Grounds with Capability Brown’s lake in view and surrounded by 2,000 acres of parkland. Then there’s Bowood’s spectacular displays of roses and the stunning borders around the house and Walled Gardens. The promise of delights for all age groups also comes with Tractor Ted1’s Bowood
Little Farm, the thrills and spills of the Adventure Playground, the ‘For King and Country’ exhibition in the Orangery, Walled Garden tours, the unique Bowood Collection of antiques, art and other treasures plus the laboratory where Dr. Joseph Priestley discovered oxygen gas in 1774...The list goes on. 01249 848457 | www.bowood.org
BUSH FARM BISON CENTRE West Knoyle, Warminster BA12 6AE See bison, elk, raccoons and guanacos at Bush Farm Bison Centre. Bush Farm is a working farm tucked away at the southern end of the little village of West Knoyle (near Mere), just over a mile from the A303. As well as seeing the beautiful animals it is also a lovely venue for a summer walk that takes the visitor through the tree gardens. There are some 30 acres of mature oak woods with mown paths, secret gardens and wide grassy clearings for you to wander or just sit in and enjoy glimpses of the wonderful wildlife that surrounds you. There are also woodland camp pitches with fire pits to enjoy too. The Bison Centre and Farm is open from 10am - 5pm Wednesday to Sunday from April, including Bank Holidays. 01747 830263 | www.bisonfarm.co.uk
CHOLDERTON CHARLIES Cholderton, Salisbury SP4 0EW There are lots of things to do when you are at Charlies, including watching the pig race, handling rabbits and chicks and even seeing little baby animals! You can even buy a bag of animal feed which you can feed many of the animals with. There is a play barn for children under 5ft tall along with three different play parks for them to play in too, with two trampolines and an enormous sand pit! During peak times, they offer lots of hands-on farm activities, from walking a goat to cuddling a little fluffy baby chick! Tractor rides are understandably a big hit, and there’s pig racing to enjoy too!
Bush Farm Bison Centre
You can also have great fun in their Maize Maze, a special attraction that will be open all summer long subject to sunshine! And once you’ve built up an appetite the Ewe Tree Café is on hand with refreshments and tasty homecooked food and, for grown ups, a fully licensed bar! 01980 629438 | www.choldertoncharliesfarm.com
COTSWOLD MOTORING MUSEUM Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucs GL54 2BY At the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, you’ll discover over 50 vehicles including cars, motorcycles, pedal cars and caravans displayed in seven galleries covering more than 7,500sq ft! The Museum is a truly fascinating journey through the 20th Century, overflowing with vintage vehicles, hundreds of original enamel signs and an intriguing collection of motoring curiosities. It’s also home to TV’s superhero car Brum. This year’s very special exhibition – Glad all Over: Remembering 1964 - will be taking a nostalgic look back to a golden year. On display will be their 1964 Zephyr and two 1964 Royal Enfield motorcycles, as well as photographs, posters and songs from the iconic year. Why not relive life in the 1960s, or see what all the fuss was about for yourself? 01451 821255 | cotswoldmotormuseum.co.uk
COURT FARM COUNTRY PARK Weston-s-Mare, Somerset BS29 6DL Open for more than 25 years as a visitor attraction, Court Farm Country Park is
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// summer activities state of the art conference and hospitality facilities for 10 to 400 guests and Haynes Workshop Services.
Court Farm Country Park
looking forward to another fun filled summer of entertainment for all the family. The park has been voted runners up in the Farm Attraction Of The Year competition twice in recent years, an accolade that the attraction’s owner, Peter Gwyn, puts down to the friendly atmosphere and the excellent facilities the farm now boasts. With over 25000sq ft of undercover attractions and playgrounds, all visitors can enjoy a day in the countryside whatever the weather. Opening for the summer holidays is this year’s Pirate Maize Maze. Starting again for this season is the popular milking show, a half hour informative and fun show that takes place twice daily. Budding adventurers will love the Safari Jeep track. There are two large indoor adventure playgrounds, which suit all ages of children and there are lots of friendly animals on show too. With twice daily bottle-feeding shows kids can marvel at the antics of the farm’s baby animals. Tractor rides, pony rides, and a whole host of other goings on will leave your kids begging to come back soon. 01934 822383 | www.courtfarmcountrypark.co.uk
HAYNES MOTOR MUSEUM Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LH Haynes International Motor Museum first opened its doors on 10 July 1985. 30 years later and the museum now boasts over 400 cars and motorbikes in 15 very distinct exhibitions; a large museum shop selling auto related gifts as well as specialist memorabilia; Café 750 which serves delicious home cooked food;
The exhibitions, from the ‘Dawn of Motoring’ through to ‘Supercar Century’ take you on a journey from early beginnings to present day supercars. The museum gives you unrivalled access to explore, discover and experience the history, designs and technologies of motoring from around the world. The museum also offers fun for all the family with Haynes Motorland including an electric go-kart track, the Vroom Room (an indoor soft play barn), scooters, Haynes Garage, and activity play frames and vehicles and more, including an extensive programme of events throughout the year. 01963 440804 | www.haynesmotormuseum.com
“Haynes now boasts over 400 cars & motorbikes in 15 very distinct exhibitions.” HOLBURNE MUSEUM Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB Holburne Museum in Bath is a lovely family attraction, and this summer it has several exhibitions that will really capture your imagination. A real highlight is the Canaletto Weekender (24-26 July) which promises a long weekend of fun exhibition-inspired events, including Punch & Judy shows, Venetian mask making workshops, live music, talks, foodie treats, late night openings and much more. Another highlight of the summer is a contemporary art exhibition by Laura Ellen Bacon. ‘Murmuration’ will see the sculptor transform the façade and interior of the museum with a unique installation of Somerset willow. The work will be an undulating curvaceous
form inspired by flocks of starlings in flight. Come and experience it from every angle both inside and outside the building and don’t forget to go to the website for details on the museum’s weekly kids workshops. 01225 388569 | www.holburne.org Hope Nature Centre
HOPE NATURE CENTRE Southwick Country Park, Southwick, Trowbridge BA14 9QD Hope Nature Centre is a great place to take the family during the holidays. Open 7 days a week, it’s unbelievable value: costing just £2.50 per adult, £1.50 per child or a family ticket (£7) gains entry for two adults and two children. Small children in particular will be entranced at the Rabbit Village, which has rabbits large and small as well as guinea pigs and degus. The route, which is wheelchair accessible, then introduces you to the other animals in the park, including goats, sheep, Shetland ponies, donkeys, pigs, ducks, geese, chickens, turkeys, baby emus and alpacas. You can buy bags of food to give the animals too – a guarantee of some one to one moments with the animals as you go round. There is also an aviary housing lovebirds, finches, budgies, parrots and beautiful owls. En route there are other things to keep little ones amused should they need it, including trampolines, playhouses, climbing frames, a miniature golf course and a wonderful fairy wood. It’s great fun, allowing kids to work off some of their inexhaustible energies whilst the grown ups wander round the beautiful park and admire the scenery.
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// summer activities After your animal park adventures you may wish to stop off at the popular Squirrels Tea Room, a country style log cabin that serves hot and cold drinks, homemade cakes, freshly cooked lunches and, if the weather demands it, ice creams! 01225 759075 | hopenaturecentre.org.uk
LACOCK ABBEY Lacock, nr Chippenham SN15 2LG Lacock Abbey is a great location for a family day out. Come rain or shine, there is plenty to do. The garden and grounds are in full bloom, and the woodlands invite you to explore and play on rope swing, stepping logs and huge ancient tree stumps. The museum and abbey rooms tell the story of the invention of photography. There are family trails and events, including outdoor family theatre (see website for more info). During the summer holidays (from 20 July to 28 August, Mon-Fri) they open the discovery den in the Tudor Courtyard, helping families get closer to nature together and complete some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ (50things.org.uk) with workshops and activities. Normal admission applies. 01249 730459 | nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock
INSPIRE OF WARMINSTER Warminster Park, Warminster BA12 9NP The third ‘Inspire of Warminster’ will take place in Warminster Town Park on Sunday 26 July from 1pm to 7pm, with live music from five local bands. With a mixture of rock, soul, country and folk, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. Free music workshops from James Leighton and Sounds of Frome will give anyone who’s interested in learning to play an instrument the chance to try before they buy. Refreshments will be available from the award-winning Organ Inn, the Field Kitchen and the Pavilion Café, or just bring a picnic, sit and relax on the bank, enjoying the sounds. Find them on Facebook: Inspire of Warminster
LITTLE URCHINS SOFTPLAY Woodcock Ind Est, Warminster BA12 9DX Little Urchins Softplay is Warminster’s only softplay centre and boasts three different play areas for babies, 1-4 years and 4 to 12 years. It is open 7 days a week and is a great place to head come rain or come shine. All areas can be seen from the seating area so parents relax over a cup of coffee or maybe a cold drink and some freshly made food from the café. Or, if they wish, they can climb aboard their pirate ship themed softplay frame and have fun with the kids! As well as being a great place for everyday play Little Urchins also offer party room hire for birthdays and exclusive use. For special offers see the website. 01985 220260 | www.little-urchins-softplay.com
MILL ON THE BRUE Bruton, Somerset BA10 0BA Mill on the Brue is the best holiday idea yet for children (7 - 14 years). They offer both day and residential camps within their fantastic 25 acres site, with day camps running from Mondays to Fridays, 8.30am to 5.30pm. They offer themed days, which include Jungle, Army & Hunger Games, as well as ‘normal’ activity days. Mill on the Brue offers a ratio of one instructor to six kids, and participate in 5 - 6 activities every day from a list that includes canoeing, high ropes, archery, assault courses, rafting, tree climbing, tunnelling, crossing the river, zip wires, clay oven cooking and water slides. They’re outdoors having a fantastic time and at lunch they sit down to a delicious two course home cooked meal. Parents often remark how their children have grown in confidence and
“Enjoy a unique experience by visiting the Roman Baths by torchlight on a summer’s evening.”
Mill on the Brue
independence, and for most it becomes a regular summer fixture. 01749 812307 | www.millonthebrue.co.uk
ROMAN BATHS Stall Street, Bath BA1 1LZ Enjoy a unique experience by visiting the Roman Baths by torchlight on a summer’s evening. The site and shop are open until 10pm every evening in July and August (last entry 9pm). As darkness falls, the ruins of this vast Roman building are an awesome sight. By the light of flickering torches, you can walk on 2000 year old pavements, providing a truly magical atmosphere. Stop for dinner, supper or a glass of wine in the Pump Room restaurant or the more informal Roman Baths Kitchen. The Pump Room restaurant is open for dinner in July and August, last orders 9pm. Book a table on 01225 444477. Alternatively you could opt for the Twilight Tour and Dinner package. Explore Roman ruins under flickering torchlight, discover fascinating facts from your guide and then relax with a three course dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen. All for £36 per person. Book on 0844 847 5256 or email tourism@bathtourism.co.uk 01225 444477 | www.romanbaths.co.uk
STEAM Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon SN2 2EY There’s hands-on action at STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway – this summer. Located right next to Swindon’s Designer Outlet, this Museum is bursting with things to see and do for all the family from little ones
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WEFT
WEST OF ENGLAND FESTIVAL OF TEXTILES
Tr owbridge Museum presents its Trowbridge 3rd Festival of Textiles from Saturday 15 August A history of weaving and looms Live demonstra rattions Workshops & Crafts to get stuck in to Join us & weave your way way through history!
ARMED 25% FORCES DISCOUNT
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// summer activities to grandparents. Among story-telling displays, you’ll find legendary steam locomotives, a train simulator and Signal Box, as well as many hands-on exhibits. A collection of working vintage slot machines completes your round trip, about two hours in all. STEAM’s summer holiday activities include family fun trails and the chance to Meet the Railway Workers on 25 July, 8 and 22 August.
Devizes (12 miles), home to the famous Caen Hill lock flight. There are also child trailers, trailer bikes and child seats for hire should you need them. Alternatively, you might want to take to the water in a canoe. Their canoes are very safe and easy to use and can be paddled solo, or can accommodate mum, dad and two children, the choice is yours!
01793 466646 | www.steam-museum.org.uk
01225 867187 | www.towpathtrail.co.uk
TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM
WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY
Within The Shires, Trowbridge BA14 8AT Trowbridge Museum hosts its 3rd Festival of Textiles from 15 August. This year’s exhibition will display how looms and weaving techniques have changed though the ages, demonstrating how easy it is to create textiles at home today. There’ll be workshops and demonstrations encouraging people to have a go themselves and get stuck in to the wonderful world of weaving!
Railway Station, Minehead TA24 5BG England’s longest heritage railway runs its services over the 20 miles of route between Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton) and Minehead. Steam trains will be operating until October.
01225 751339 | www.trowbridgemuseum.co.uk
TOWPATH TRAIL Frome Road, Bradford on Avon BA15 1LE The Kennet & Avon Canal towpath offers traffic free and easy cycling for all the family. Stretching from Bristol to Reading, through and along hills and valleys, the cities and towns along the way offer an interesting backdrop to the wonderful country path. Towpath Trail is the original bike and canoe hire on the canal. Operating from their bike shop TT cycles in Bradford on Avon, their bikes are in good condition – all less than 6 months old – and are ideal if you and the family want to head off to Bath (10 miles) or Towpath Trail
A new venture for this year is the “Abbey and Apple Experience” which will run on seelcted dates and give passengers a chance to combine the steam train ride with a visit to Cleeve Abbey and/or Torre Cider Farm (prebooking is essential. The Dunster Castle Express will run on Saturdays and Wednesdays, giving a full day out with a steam train ride and a visit to the 1000 year old castle. Other attractions include catering trains with fish and chips, cheese and cider and cream teas. 01643 704996 | www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk
WHITE HORSE COUNTRY PARK Coach Road, Westbury BA13 4LX When the kids are off school its often hard work keeping them entertained without breaking the bank. For a good value day out in the countryside there are few better options than White Horse Country Park. There’s a fishing lake, a 9hole golf course, a 12-bay driving range and a dedicated Kids Zone with swings, slides, stepping stones, rope ladders, balancing logs and even a bouncy castle when it’s sunny. The onsite bar and restaurant offers tasty food at great value prices too. A real highlight of the summer is sure to be their White Horse
Festival on Sunday 30 August, which will feature 8 bands, local beers and ciders, BBQ, children’s games, a bouncy castle, stalls, train rides, face painting and much more. Adult tickets are £8 in advance and kids under 14 go free. 01373 822323 | www.whitehorsecountrypark.co.uk
Taff Valley
TAFF VALLEY Cwrt y Celyn Farm, Upperboat, Pontypridd, CF37 5BJ Have you ever thought of taking the family Quad Biking or Gorge Walking or have a go at Archery or Clay Pigeon shooting? If the answers ‘yes’ then Taff Valley Quad Bike and Activity Centre offers all of these set in the beautiful Taff Valleys just outside Cardiff. This award-winning family business can arrange a variety of packages for individuals, families, corporate team building, hen and stag weekends as well as customised activity breaks through WALES ACTIVITY BREAKS. None of the activities require any experience as full training is given by qualified instructors, making it fun for all the family. What’s more, new for summer 2015 is a brand new Ultimate Woodland Assault Course, which will challenge both mind and body! The obstacles cover running, climbing, jumping, crawling, swimming and balancing elements with the aim of testing teamwork and endurance. Perfect for everything from a family adventure day to a corporate team building exercise, the new assault course is a great addition to the activities available at Taff Valley. 02920 831 658 | www.adventurewales.co.uk
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The Lock Inn Café Home of the famous Boatman’s Breakfast since 1990, and offering a vast lunch, snack and evening menu, canalside garden, good beer, wines & coffee. Our Kitchen is open All Day, Every Day. #
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CALL & ASK ABOUT OUR... • extensive range of kitchens, bathrooms & bedrooms • free, no obligation, planning & design service • appliances, parts & accessories
“Bring us your dream and let us turn it in to your new kitchen.”
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// house & home
Find Interior Inspiration With 25 years industry experience, Home Inspirations Ltd design, renovate and install kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms & home offices to the highest standards.
A design for open plan living inspires many kitchen redesigns
H
ome Inspirations Ltd is a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and home study design and installation specialist company operating from a modern showroom on Hopton Park Industrial Estate in Devizes. They have a range of displays on show, from contemporary to traditional, to suit all tastes and budgets. They can offer a complete service from initial design through to all aspects of installation and with over 25 years of working in the industry,
New trends favour larger shower enclosures
“A desire for open plan living has seen a trend towards the kitchen being the hub of the house and an area to eat, entertain and relax.” customers have the peace of mind that they are dealing with true professionals. Their specialist designers are very knowledgeable and creative, ably supported by highly skilled fitters who are proud to produce a first class finish in all their projects. In recognition of the team’s hard work they were recently approved by Which? as one of their “Trusted Traders“; the only kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and home study company in Wiltshire to achieve this status. With summer now here there has never been a better time to spruce up the house for entertaining. A desire for open plan living has seen a trend towards the kitchen being the hub of the house and
an area to eat, entertain and relax. This idea can work with a contemporary modern high gloss kitchen or a classy timeless design with a modern twist incorporating curved units and contemporary designed handles. Bathrooms have seen a trend towards larger shower enclosures, drench shower heads and wet rooms. The use of stone within bathrooms gives a feel of luxury and combined with underfloor heating and towel radiators reinforces the sensory pleasure. For more information, or to arrange a free no obligation quotation, call 01380 728644 or visit the website. • www.homeinspirationsltd.co.uk
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Davies of Westbury D I Y, G a r d e n i n g & C o o k S h o p
For all your needs around the home, both inside and out • DIY • Gardening • Tools • Heating • Logs & Fuels • Decorating • Electricals • Cooking • Sugarcraft
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// house & home
Beautiful Bathrooms Trowbridge based company Active Plumbing Supplies goes the extra mile for customers, after opening up its new showroom at Riverway Industrial Estate.
A
ctive Plumbing Supplies opened in March last year and specialises in supplying plumbing products for trade and retail customers, stocking anything to do with bathrooms and heating.
The new showroom gives customers the chance to see how their new bathroom might look
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 are a relatively new business and we pride ourselves on our customer service, helping customers with any plumbing advice they need. We always aim to go the extra mile. “The showroom has just been completed and it looks great. It helps gives people ideas of how their bathroom might look. Of course we are also on hand if customers want any tips or advice on their bathroom design.” “We are a local business supplying local products to local people. The reason I started Active Plumbing was because I wanted to offer the personal touch, which I believe you only get from smaller businesses. The response we’ve had since we’ve opened has been great and I feel there is a genuine desire out The team can guide and advise you on your design
“We have a good range of products available and offer very competitive prices, so you can get the luxury bathroom you’ve always dreamed of at prices you can afford.” Martyn Johnson, Manager there for people to use local companies now, people see that it’s good for the local economy and they understand that using independents doesn’t have to mean spending more. We have a good range of products available and offer very competitive prices, so you can get the luxury bathroom you’ve always dreamed of at prices you can afford.” Along with all the other services it provides, Active Plumbing Supplies can also recommend tradesmen. Martyn
added: “As part of the personal touch we provide we can point people in the direction of tradesmen for certain jobs. We can recommend the best company to speak to depending on what they need doing. You don’t get that from your big DIY warehouses.” Call the team on 01225 765000 or email martyn@activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk for more information. • www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk
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// house & home
The perfect kitchen for a dream house... When award-winning designers Coppice Guild were selected by Bloor Homes to design a kitchen and utility room for their flagship property at Fortescue Fields in Norton St. Philip, they rose to the challenge. and the oak pockets for cleaning equipment on the doors to the generous bead running along the underside of the worktop around the sink run. Even the handles have been hand forged and finished in the UK. The same attention to design has been given to the laundry room. A simple framed door for cabinetry and open shelving on gallows brackets combine beauty and function.
The Mercury stove set the colour palette for the kitchen
K
nowle House is a Georgian inspired manor house built with all the advantages of modern living. An in-framed hand built and painted kitchen with top end appliances was specified. The period detailing of raised and fielded panelled doors on the kitchen cabinets combined with open shelving and a worktable give the room a timeless elegance. The Mercury stove in Purple Haze set a colour palette that was mainly neutral
wine cooler and large Siemens stainless steel fridge freezer complete with ice maker. Next to it is a huge double doored larder with marble cold shelf, perimeter shelving and racks. The worktops have had careful consideration: honed Carrara marble for the sink area (where the beauty of the veining runs along the long window wall), black granite around the cooking area (where robust durability is required) and soft gentle wide planked oak on the worktable.
“The period detailing of raised and fielded panelled doors on the kitchen cabinets combined with open shelving and a worktable give the room a timeless elegance.” but with a hint of rich purple and lilac grey. Continuing the luxury there is a
There is acute attention to detail, from the stainless steel base inside the sink
Don’t take their word for it – pop along to the showhome and see how fabulous a Coppice Guild kitchen can be. Alternatively pay their studio a visit at 28 Coppice Hill, Bradford on Avon. • www.coppiceguild.co.uk
It is filled with lovely details The laundry room is just as well thought out
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S E AT I N G & A C C E S S O R I E S
F ind fa n t a s ti c s u m me r s a v in g s a t S o fa C o P l u s
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// house & home
Inspirational Interiors Are you refreshing a room, planning a full refurbishment or moving to a new home? Darling Interiors can help you create the ambience you're looking for at a price that suits your budget.
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house & home //
Darling Interiors offer a beautiful range of high quality fabrics
D
arling Interiors is a family run business run by Jean Darling. The company prides itself on offering beautiful fabrics and a keen eye for detail allied with high quality workmanship and great service. They carry an extensive range of fabrics, and the collections are updated with the latest interior trends as well as all the classic finishes you would want too. What’s more, they can even create one off fabrics for a truly unique finish.
After calling to arrange an appointment, Jean will come to you, bringing all her fabric samples for you to look at in the comfort of your own home; ideal for seeing things in situ, where the light and feel of a room can be to different to what you’ll find in a showroom. Jean can take all the appropriate measurements, give you advice and listen to your ideas before giving you a free quotation that includes fitting so you won’t get any nasty surprises. If you want to proceed Jean can get the ball rolling, arranging
“They carry an extensive range of fabrics, and the collections are updated with the latest interior trends as well as all the classic finishes you would want too.” As well as creating beautiful curtains, cushions and blinds of all types, Darling Interiors specialises in bay tracks for awkward windows (a common problem in period properties) and have an extensive range of poles to suit all tastes and budgets.
the fitting for a time to suit you. Jean says, “When it comes to fitting, we ensure all curtains are hung and dressed, so they look absolutely fantastic. Often it is these finishing touches that make all the difference to the feel of a room. What we really want is to have happy customers who will then hopefully call us again, and recommend us to friends and family.” To find out more call 01373 672 359, or email from the website to organise a no obligation appointment.
Darling Interiors offer a free no obligation consultation in the comfort of your own home
• www.darling-interiors.co.uk
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// health & wellbeing
Maristow Chiropractic Clinic This Westbury-based clinic provides a friendly and effective chiropractic service, diagnostic ultrasound imaging and sports massage therapy.
M
aristow Chiropractic Clinic has seen some exciting changes of late. Firstly, Founder and Clinic Director Dr. Kay Pearce, was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of Chiropractors and secondly has successfully completed her Ultrasound Exams this will now be a new service for patients. The Royal College of Chiropractors is a
muscle pain. They can also offer ultrasound scans, to build a better picture of the problem area, and sports massage therapy. Whether your condition is caused by playing sports or gardening, wear and tear or you have just general aches and pains they may be able to help alleviate the symptoms with a personal plan and
to her selection as a “Gamesmaker" for the 2012 Paralympic Games as part of the medical services team. She has also worked trackside at numerous other national and international events, but closer to home Kay is team medic for Trowbridge Rugby Football Club where she is responsible for all pitch side first aid and pre and post match treatments. • www.maristowchiropractic.com
“The Maristow Chiropractic Clinic provides every patient with a fully qualified, friendly and efficient chiropractic service to relieve joint and muscle pain.” professional membership body and registered charity that promotes professional excellence, quality and safety within chiropractic services. To become a Fellow, Doctors of Chiropractic are elected in recognition of their significant contribution to chiropractic. It is a reward for their dedication to improving the profession and focus on self-improvement to provide the very best chiropractic care to their patients. On hearing of her Fellowship, Kay Pearce, Doctor of Chiropractic, said "I was delighted when I received the letter! This honour came totally out of the blue, but is a real reward for the extra hours study I’d put to pass my ultrasound exams. This service is a great additional benefit for our patients”. The Maristow Chiropractic Clinic provides every patient with a fully qualified, friendly and efficient chiropractic service to relieve joint and
tailored treatment programme. Chiropractic can help ease your pain. Kay graduated from the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic in 2001 with an honors degree in human science and a Masters of Chiropractic. After working for two other Wiltshire practices Kay opened Maristow Chiropractic Clinic in 2003. In 2006 she gained her International Chiropractic Sports Science Diploma. The clinic grew and in 2010 expansion was required so they moved into larger premises where Kay now works alongside Alec Dolman. Kay is very interested in treating sports injuries, which lead
Dr Kay Pearce Doctor of Chiropractic
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Peter Wilkinson M.Inst.Ch.P
Experiencing back or joint pain? A simple chiropractic adjustment may be just what you need. We W e can help ease your pain. We can help with.. â&#x20AC;˘ corns â&#x20AC;˘ calluses â&#x20AC;˘ hard skin â&#x20AC;˘ verrucae â&#x20AC;˘ ingrown toenails â&#x20AC;˘ fungal nail infections â&#x20AC;˘ footcare for the elderly, diabetics and those with poor circulation â&#x20AC;˘ advice and support Member of the Institute of Chiropodist and Podiatrists
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// health & wellbeing
Care Home Open Day On Friday 19 June, Cepen Lodge Care Home in Chippenham welcomed guests to celebrate Care Home Open Day. Cepen Lodge’s theme this year was ‘Music & Dance Through The Ages’
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here was music and dancing at Cepen Lodge Care Home in Chippenham when it welcomed guests from the local community to celebrate Care Home Open Day. Visitors, residents and staff enjoyed a range of activities at the home all themed around music and dancing. The Open Day was the culmination of a week’s worth of entertainments all
well as a performance given by a local dance school. Jun Longalong, Home Manager for Cepen Lodge, said: “The day was a great chance for people to come along and visit the home and meet the team. We love welcoming visitors and find that when people see our home, it changes their perceptions of what a care home is really like.”
“Cepen Lodge care home regularly holds events and activities for its residents and surrounding neighbours.” based on theme of ‘Music & Dance Through the Ages’ . Taking a decadea-day from the roaring '20s on Monday 15 through to the swinging '60s on Friday 19, each day explored the decade through activities, music, and dance - devoted chef Caroline even cooked up delicious food from each decade for residents. The biggest day though was the Open Day itself, which saw a tea dance and a dancing costume competition as
Staff were there on hand to speak with anyone wanting to find out more about Cepen Lodge and the care services on offer. Care Home Open Day was launched in 2013 and is celebrated by care homes across the country. Cepen Lodge care home regularly holds events and activities for its residents and surrounding neighbours. In addition to residential care for the elderly, the
home offers specialised dementia care, respite care and palliative care for 44 residents. Visit the home’s web page to find out more or call 01249 564541. • www.brighterkind.com
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// health & wellbeing
Wiltshire Farm Foods Thousands of customers are choosing Wiltshire Farm Foods’ frozen meal delivery service...
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or people who want to enjoy life to the full, there’s not always enough time in the day to prepare a meal from scratch or go shopping. With a delicious range of frozen meals delivered directly to the front door, Wiltshire Farm Foods is here to help people eat well and look after themselves in their own home, whatever their plans. Wiltshire Farm Foods’ award-winning chefs and dietitians have cooked up a
afternoon tea and an evening meal. Each meal is prepared in the Wiltshire kitchens using quality ingredients that are selected from carefully approved suppliers, before being frozen straightaway to lock in the freshness. Convenience is a big part of the Wiltshire Farm Foods’ service. All meals can be ordered over the phone, online or by post. They’re then delivered directly to your front door for free by a friendly, police-checked delivery driver,
“with main meals starting at just £2.95, they offer great value as well as nutrition and flavour. ” range of over 260 delicious dishes from breakfast through to lunch,
who is always happy to stack meals away neatly in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply remove the meal you fancy and pop it straight in the microwave or oven to cook from
frozen in a matter of minutes. There’s no preparation, no pots and pans, just delicious meals to be enjoyed in your own home, in your own time. Another big benefit of Wiltshire Farm Foods is that the service is commitment free - customers can order as much or as little as they want whenever they like. And with main meals starting at just £2.95, they offer great value as well as nutrition and flavour. Enjoying life and eating well has never been easier. For more information about Wiltshire Farm Foods you can contact them on 0800 084 3824 for a free brochure or visit their website. • wiltshirefarmfoods.com
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// bath rugby
Bath undone in Premiership Final European Champions in French giants Toulon, Irish heavyweights Leinster and fellow Aviva Premiership title challengers Wasps. Exact fixtures will be confirmed later in the summer, with the tournament kicking off in November.
WEST COUNTRY CHALLENGE CUP
George Ford and co were outplayed by Saracens in the Aviva Premiership final
ath Rugby were unable to recover from the first-half dominance of Saracens in the Aviva Premiership Final, suffering a 16-28 defeat at Twickenham. In reality, it was a game they never really looked like winning, especially after Saracens took an early 15-0 lead and despite a spirited comeback that saw Bath win the second period 13-3. In all though the team can look back on a memorable season that saw fantastic home victories against Leicester (twice), Saracens, Wasps, Gloucester and many more as well as a record breaking victory away at Toulouse and a narrow defeat at the hands of Leinster in the Champions Cup Quarter Final. Playing a brand of rugby that has won plaudits and admiration across the northern hemisphere, Bath’s 150th anniversary season is gearing up to be a very memorable one indeed.
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150TH ANNIVERSARY GAME AT TWICKENHAM As part of Bath Rugby’s 150th anniversary season they will be playing a game at HQ. A home Aviva Premiership match, the details, including Bath’s opponents, are yet to be confirmed, with fixtures due to be announced on Friday 3 July. At 11am that day, Bath Rugby fans will be able to find out who their team will face each weekend from mid October. It should make for a great spectacle.
ERCC POOLS ANNOUNCED Some of the biggest teams in Europe will arrive at The Rec next season, with Bath Rugby's pool for the European Rugby Champions Cup confirmed. Having been drawn into Tier One for the competition, Bath have been selected in Pool 5 and will face three former
INAUGURAL WEST COUNTRY CHALLENGE CUP FIXTURES 5/09/15 Exeter Chiefs v Gloucester Rugby 12/09/15 Gloucester Rugby v Bath Rugby 19/09/15 Exeter Chiefs v Bath Rugby 26/09/15 Bath Rugby v Gloucester Rugby 3/10/15 Gloucester Rugby v Exeter Chiefs 10/10/15 Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
The start of the league campaign has been put back a month due to the World Cup and will begin after the group stages of the tournament. As a consequence, there will be no LV= Cup next season as organisers try to get all the fixtures into what will be a packed season for the top teams. To fill the domestic gap, and to keep players sharp, Bath Rugby are competing in the West Country Challenge Cup round-robin competition with Exeter Chiefs and Gloucester Rugby, ensuring a series of thrilling local derbies. The Bath games will be included as part of the season ticket, and tickets will also be available to purchase nearer the time. As Kingsholm is a World Cup venue, Gloucester will be playing their home games at Bristol’s Memorial Stadium.
SUMMER CAMPS The Bath Rugby Community team holds a variety of skills camps and clinics in different locations around the area. The camps encompass technical and tactical aspects of the game. All activities are fun based, but with a focus on the development of all camp goers, whatever their level and each age group's coaching is specifically tailored to meet the needs and requirements of that exact age group, with camps ranging from Under 7s to Under 16s. • www.bathrugby.com/community
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// puzzles
Tea Break Teasers FESTIVALS WORDSEARCH What/who is missing from the grid? BESTIVAL GLASTONBURY LARMER TREE DOWNLOAD VILLAGE PUMP
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WIN A £10 NEXT VOUCHER! Email your answers to these trivia questions to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk by 23.07.15 to be in with a chance of winning a £10 Next Voucher. Good luck!
Q1: In what band was Tony Duhig the guitarist? Q2: What is the second track on the July EP released by Katatonia in 2006? LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: DIANTHUS Quiz answers: 1: Your Face Or Mine? 2: June Gable 3: Valerie June 4: 30th June 5: Nam June Paik
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// last word
In the Swim
M
y wife recently completed the Hot Chilli Big T Sprint Triathlon. It was a great moment. She trained for it for months, doing countless laps in the pool, going out on her bike in all weathers (except rain and, er, strong winds so mainly sun and cloud) and pushing herself to run mile after mile. She was even doing something called ‘brick’ training, when you cycle a long way, come back home and then go off running immediately afterwards. She even had me join her once doing that. Oh. My. God. I assume it’s called brick training as
hand is what can only be termed an absolute shambles. It’s not so much a swim as a float, in fact it’s not so much a float as a sink. My 2 year old goes to swimming lessons once a week and there is a decent possibility she would be out of the pool before me. I reckon I’d probably beat her on the bike and run sections but, being so knackered from the swim, even that isn’t a given. This means I need to learn how to swim properly. I thought one-to-one lessons would be a good idea but as my wife is a strong swimmer, and
“It’s not so much a swim as a float, in fact it’s not so much a float as a sink. My 2 year old goes to swimming lessons once a week and there is a decent possibility she would be out of the pool before me. ” your legs feel like a ton of bricks as soon as you start trying to run off the bike. It was hellish. So when she completed said triathlon I couldn’t have been more proud of my girl. She even got a t-shirt with her name on it. Fantastic. I have to say my wife’s successes have inspired me – or at least brought out my competitive side. I too shall be attempting a sprint triathlon. It involves a 400m pool swim, a 25k bike ride and by a 5k run. I’m not too worried by the last two disciplines, I cycle a bit and do a lot of spin classes, and as for the run, well, I’m no Mo Farah but I’m no Mo Harris (EastEnders if you are wondering!) either. My swimming on the other
now a triathlete in her own right, maybe I would get some tips from her first…..not such a good idea! Wives teaching husbands (and vice versa) doesn’t make for the most harmonious of times. You start out with the best intentions but somewhere along the line it all becomes a bit fractious. The mildest of suggestions can be taken the wrong way and before you know it, what started out as a bid by one to help the other has descended into some kind of strange one-upmanship battle that can only end in tears…usually mine!! I have never been hugely confident in the water, although I did used to be able to swim much better than I can
now. We didn’t have a pool at school but used to go to the open air pool in Trowbridge quite a bit in the summer. My memories, though, aren’t of gliding through the water with grace and elegance. I’d usually be the one spluttering and coughing trying not to swallow the whole pool while simultaneously trying to breathe and spit out the rogue band aid that always appears sooner or later in a public pool. I have to persist though, I’m pretty sure you can’t complete a triathlon if you only do two of the events and I’m not sure the other competitors would allow me to bike or run the difference. And if I don’t complete it properly I also wouldn’t get the t-shirt with my name on it, which is obviously the whole point of doing it in the first place.
Phil Rockliffe
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