The West Wilts Magazine - January 2016

JANUARY 2016 // ISSUE 77

FREE

The magazine

FROM TRYING SOMETHING DIFFERENT TO TRANSFORMING YOUR HEALTH & MUCH MUCH MORE

+ LOCAL LISTINGS RETIREMENT PLANNING HEALTHY EATING & MUCH MORE

FOOD & DRINK // INTERVIEWS // PROPERTY // SHOPPING // COMMENT

contents Published by Wired Publishing Editor Lisa Rockliffe Contributors Craig Gates-Mutton, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Andy Diffey Advertising Enquiries Andy Diffey e: andy@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 General Enquiries e: info@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 www.wired-publishing.co.uk Address 20 Azalea Drive, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 9GG This magazine is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests.

Please recycle it when you are done, or pass it on!

The publishers shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by the failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or misprints.

Reproduction of this magazine in whole, or in part is strictly prohibited wihout prior permission of the publishers.

January 2016 // issue 77

W

elcome one and all to our first edition of 2016. The Christmas break affords us the time to take stock, often giving rise to a host of resolutions come the new year. For 2016 we’re offering you a proper shot at sticking to them! Whether you want to learn something new, change your career, get fit, lose weight or even plan for your retirement, this is the edition for you!

Variety is the spice of life so they say, and if you are looking for a change be sure to read our feature on learning something new this year. From p19 we endeavour to inspire you to get out of your comfort zone. New leaves continue to be turned over in our New Year, New You feature too. It covers everything to do with health, fitness and wellbeing - the number one resolution for most of us. Our guide starts on p61 and also includes an exclusive reader offer from Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa. Those with elderly relatives or those planning their own retirement should take a look at this month’s Retirement Planning feature (p39). It gives you an in depth look at all aspects of retirement planning, care and lots more.

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With all these features and all your usual favourites, our first offering of 2016 is as chock-a-block as ever. Enjoy!

Lisa Rockliffe, Editor Follow us on Twitter... @wiredpublishing Read online... www.wired-publishing.co.uk

in this issue...

LOCAL LISTINGS

What’s on in January

6

LOCAL NEWS Round up of news & events

12

St Margaret’s Preparatory School

15

New exhibition at the Holburne

16

FEATURES Learn something new every day

19

Retirement Planning

39

New Year, New You

61

HEALTH & WELLBEING Bishopstrow Reader Offer

68

FOOD & DRINK Food & Drink news

28

BATH RUGBY

Eat The Seasons

30

An interview with David Denton

Healthy Recipes for the new year

31

HOMES & GARDENS

70

PUZZLES Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku

Gray’s Carpets

50

Formosa Kitchens

52

COMMENT

Stephen Graver

56

The Last Word

72

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NOW OPEN IN FROME Pop in to see us and find good quality, locally made furniture and homewares displayed in room settings designed to inspire. An introductory discount offer is available throughout January so come and visit soon to see what’s in store.

Choose from a large selection of painted, oak, reclaimed and upholstered furniture, all made to order with a wide choice of colours and handles.

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY 01373 466414 Westway Shopping Centre | Frome | Somerset | BA11 1AL

Introductory Discounts On Offer Throughout January

| events

local

listings JANUARY 2016

THE ARC THEATRE College Rd, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 0ES Box Office: 01225 756211 www.arctheatre.org.uk For full listings go to the website.

LITTLE MISS MUFFET – A TRADITIONAL PANTOMIME 14–24 January, various times Tickets: £9 (Concs: £7) To celebrate her birthday Dame Drinkup takes Molly Muffet, Captain Jack Dauntless and her other friends into the woods for a picnic. Find out how they all get on and if Dame Drinkup ever finishes her picnic!

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 www.melkshamassemblyhall.com For full listings go to the website

FORBIDDEN NIGHTS 22 January, 8pm Tickets: £19.50 A classy new all male variety show with full theatre production and explosive choreography.

live music, kids’ shows and activities, jam sessions, dancing, workshops, showcases of fabulous local products, real ales and food, and much more.

RAPHAEL WALLFISCH & JOHN YORK 23 January, 7.30pm Tickets: £22 WILTSHIRE MUSIC A vintage programme from one of the CENTRE Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ best duo partnerships Box Office: 01225 860100 MEN WITH HORNS www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk 24 January, 4pm For full listings go to the website.

Tickets: £15 An evening inspired by Vienna’s BRADFORD ROOTS FESTIVAL 2016 unique musical heritage 16 & 17 January, 11am Tickets: £18 for the weekend THE ROYAL BALLET LIVE: A triumphant return to the Centre for TWO PIGEONS / RHAPSODY this wondrous two-day music festival 31 January, 2pm celebrating just what a brilliantly Tickets: £15 talented place Bradford on Avon is. The An intensely absorbing celebration of Centre comes alive with a mesmerising the choreographic art. Live screening programme packed full of thrilling from the Royal Opera House.

The Royal Ballet Live: Rhapsody, Wiltshire Music Centre

POUND ARTS CENTRE Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 www.poundarts.org.uk For full listings go to the website.

THE COMPANY YOU KEEP (Cert 15) 14 January, 11am & 7.30pm Tickets: £7 (Concs: £6) Robert Redford directs and heads up an impressive cast in this gripping political thriller.

ANDREW MCCORMACK 20 January, 1pm Tickets: £7 (Concs: £6)

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| events

THE ATHENAEUM CENTRE 18-20 High St, Warminster, BA12 9AE Box Office: 01985 213891 www.theath.org.uk For full listings go to the website.

STILL LIFE (Cert 12A) 6 Jan, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 A gentle, poignant, very British tale of life, love, and death

The Company You Keep (Cert 15), Pound Arts Centre

Andrew has been the driving force MERLIN THEATRE behind A-list jazz artists and has Bath Rd, Frome BA11 2HG performed extensively around the world. Box Office: 01373 465949 www.merlintheatre.co.uk LOU SANDERS For full listings go to the website.

23 January, 7.30pm Tickets: £8 (Concs: £7) GRAND CENTRAL (Cert 15) Crazy off beat surrealism from one of 13 January, 8pm the rising stars of British comedy.

Tickets: £6 HENRY DELL 29 January, 8pm FREE Singer/songwriter Henry Dell’s music is an eclectic mix of chilled acoustic and deep house.

LIVE SCREENING: LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES 28 January, 7pm Tickets: £15 (Concs: £14) The cast includes Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey) and Dominic West (The Wire). Former lovers, the Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont now compete in games of seduction and revenge.

TOBIAS BEN JACOB & LUKAS DRINKWATER 30 January, 7.30pm Tickets: £10 (Concs: £9) This show is dynamic and emotionally charged, with songwriter Tobias’ startling vocal and guitar work perfectly complemented by Lukas’ masterful upright bass playing and backing vocals.

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CALAMITY JANE 21, 22 & 23 January, various times Tickets: £10 A much loved musical that needs no introduction ROMANTICS ANONYMOUS (Cert 12A) 27 January, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 The acclaimed, warm-hearted romantic French tale of Jean-René, the boss of a small chocolate factory, and Angélique, a gifted chocolate maker he has just hired.

A French tale of illicit romance in a nuclear power plant. An intense and radioactively charged drama.

LACOCK ABBEY

LIVE SCREENING: LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES 28 January, 7pm Tickets: £16 (Concs: £10.50) The cast includes Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey) and Dominic West (The Wire). Former lovers, the Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont now compete in games of seduction and revenge.

ESCAPE ARTIST Until 3 January New photography exhibition by Fran Forman in the Fox Talbot Museum.

Normal admission applies unless otherwise stated

CHEESE & GRAIN 5 The Bridge, Frome BA11 1AR Box Office: 01373 455420 www.cheeseandgrain.com For full listings go to the website.

Still Life (Cert 12A), The Athenaeum Centre

NO MORE KENNELS!

• Your dog stays in a handpicked carer’s home • You and your dog visit prior to your holiday • All routines are kept & we don’t mix guest dogs • All carers are licenced, insured and vetted • We cover all of Wiltshire

DOG LOVERS WANTED! If you are interested in joining our 5* team of carers get in touch!

CONTACT EMMA

07494 510570 emma@petstay.net www.petstay.net

Original art beautifully displayed in your local gallery / Paintings / Ceramics / Sculptures / Jewellery / Nuido Embroidery

Call Martyn on

07805 065 923 Open: Thursday to Sunday 10am – 4pm (Out of hours viewings also available) Greenhill Cottage, Brokerswood Road, Southwick, Wiltshire BA14 9PR www.greenhillcottagegallery.com

| events Supreme Queen, Cheese & Grain

THE LEWIS CRAVEN BAND 17 January RETRO ELECTRO 22 January THE REFUSAL 23 January THE WORRIED MEN 24 January THE RADIO NASTYS 29 January STONE COLD FICTION + LAST HEART 30 January RIVAL ATTRACTION 31 January

BRADFORD-ON-AVON FOLK CLUB at THE SWAN Website: www.boafolkclub.org.uk Email: phil@deverall.on4free.co.uk Contact: Phil Deverall on 01380 870734

WHOLE LOTTA LED 16 January, 8pm Tickets: £15 Whole Lotta Led are one of the biggest tribute acts in the UK and an established professional Led Zeppelin tribute band.

GRANDMASTER FLASH 22 January, 8pm Tickets: £16.50 Grandmaster Flash - Direct From New York - Due to unprecedented demand, following amazing feedback and selling out 2 months prior to the event The Grandmaster is back!

SUPREME QUEEN 23 January, 8pm Tickets: £17 The band has gone from strength to strength and is now regarded by many as the UK’s Number One Queen tribute band.

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VILLAGE PUMP FRIDAY FOLK

SINGAROUND 5 & 19 January, 8pm FREE

Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge Doors open: 7.30pm

THE SIX FIVE SPECIALS 12 January

OPEN MIC 20 November, 8pm Entrance £3

GEOFFREY LAKEMEN 26 January

THE THREE HORSESHOES Frome Rd, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LA Tel: 01225 865876 All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm THE BLUNDERS 8 January HIP ROUTE 9 January MAC SEKA 10 January

WILTSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS BRADFORD ON AVON 21 & 31 January DEVIZES No market TROWBRIDGE 22 January WARMINSTER 15 January

WWM023

✃ * NOTVALID IN CONJUNCTIONWITH OTHER OFFERS.VALID ON SATURDAYS BEFORE 8PM. EXPIRY DATE 29.02.16. ROAR

CHEESE &GRAIN SAT 16 JAN 8PM FRI 22ND JAN 8PM SAT 23RD JAN 8PM SAT 6TH FEB 8PM SAT 13TH FEB 8PM 21ST & 22ND FEB FRI 26TH FEB 8PM SUN 28TH FEB 5PM FRI 4th MAR 8PM 18TH & 19TH MAR FRI 25TH MAR 8PM SAT 2ND APR 8PM SAT 30TH APR 8PM SUN 8TH MAY 2PM FRI 13TH MAY 8PM SUN 29TH MAY 8PM TH

BOX OFFICE: 01373

455420

MARKET YARD, FROME, SOMERSET BA11 1BE

www.cheeseandgrain.com

WHOLE LOTTA LED £15 GRANDMASTER FLASH £16.50 ADV SUPREME QUEEN £17 T.REXTASY £17 THINK FLOYD £17 FROME TATTOO CONVENTION TURIN BRAKES £21.50 CSF WRESTLING: ‘SHOWDOWN’ £10 KATHRYN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN £14 FROME BEER FESTIVAL £10 THE WURZELS - EASTER SCRUMPY SPECIAL £15 DIRTY DC £13.50 BAD MANNERS £16.50 FROME BLUES RHYTHM & ROCK FESTIVAL £21.50 POLICE DOG HOGAN £14 ERIC BIBB £22.50

Whole Lotta Led

Turin Brakes

CSF Wrestling

| local news

roundup

All the latest news and events from West Wiltshire and beyond!

AVALON INTERIORS OPENS IN FROME If you are heading over to Frome this new year be sure to keep an eye out for new furniture and homewares store Avalon Interiors. Based in the Westway Precinct, the store offers great quality, locally made furniture and homewares for every room in your home. As well as having an array of beautiful items to choose from, they are all displayed in room settings designed to inspire you, especially if you are looking to give your home a revamp in the new year.

And if you are still left unsure, in the coming months a full interiors service will also be available – call 01373 466414 for details.

time to suit you. What’s more, when delivered your new furniture will be placed exactly where you want it.

Displays and accessories will be refreshed regularly so there will

always be something new to see, and customers will also be able to view the latest displays and products on the website, which will be arriving soon.

So if you are in need of some home inspirations head to Avalon Interiors.

Avalon Interiors has opened in Westway Precinct, Frome

With so much to choose from you will also be delighted to hear that there are introductory discounts available throughout January. Options include a large selection of painted, oak, reclaimed and upholstered furniture (brochures available), all made to order, with over 30 colours available as well as a choice of handles. Delivery within the local area is free (within a five mile radius of Frome), and arranged at a

PLAN YOUR WILTSHIRE WEDDING WITH COW PARSLEY If you are getting married in 2016 or beyond, then you’ll certainly want to venture over to one of Cow Parsley’s wedding events at Trowbridge Civic Centre on Sunday 17 January, Sunday 31 January at the Corn Exchange in Devizes and Sunday 21 February at Warminster Civic

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Centre. Running from 10.30am to 2pm, entry is free. The events offer an interactive one stop shop for all your wedding and civil partnership needs.

From cakes to flowers, dresses to hair and make up, everything is covered, even the honeymoon!

As well as fairs, the team at Cow Parsley are also wedding planners themselves! Offering full service event design, styling, planning and production for the most intimate gathering or the most lavish of events, they will take care of every detail, helping to create the experience of a lifetime for you and your guests on your day.

• www.cow-parsley.co.uk

local news |

HOME BOARDING FOR DOGS

Home boarders since 2005, PetStay expanded its service to Wiltshire a year ago to offer dogs in the county all the comforts of their own home while you’re away on holiday.

Emma Levings (pictured below) takes care of the Wiltshire branch.

She says that the one to one service for dogs offers a safe, secure and loving alternative to boarding kennels. “PetStay has proved to be a HUGE hit in Wiltshire and dog owners are delighted that the service is now available.”

“Customers have been particularly happy that once their carer has been handpicked, they are invited to visit

their chosen carer prior to their dog’s stay for a meet and greet so everyone can get to know each other.

“The carer looks after their doggie guests in exactly the way their owners request, meaning that the number of walks isn’t limited, that if the dog usually sleeps in a bedroom, this is where they will sleep and so on.

“I have a team of 25 amazing carers across the county. They all have something different to offer, ensuring we can cater for the many varying needs of our doggie guests. Some carers have their own dog but many don’t, so owners can choose if their dog is the only dog or with some company. We don’t mix guest dogs so the stays are exclusive.”

So, if you would like PetStay to find the perfect holiday home for your dog, or if you are interested in joining their five star carer team - earning a little extra just by having dogs to stay, then just get in touch with Emma on 07494 510570. Alternatively you can email emma@petstay.net.

PetStay Wiltshire’s Emma Levings

• www.petstay.net

RICHARD NAVARRO: FIREWATCHING

On Friday 5 February, 7.30pm at Kington Langley Village Hall near Chippenham, music lovers can enjoy virtuosic violin, swirling a cappella singing, bouncing bass lines and unforgettable melodies; Richard Navarro

music that will move the feet and enrich the soul.

Navarro juggles violin, trumpet, piano and percussion to bring his original songs to life in performances that sparkle with wit and creativity. Writing and performing with double bassist Nicholas Thurston, Richard is a master of the loop pedal, allowing him to build spellbinding arrangements through the layering of his voice and instruments live on stage. The duo’s show features extraordinary visuals including illustrations and animations specially written for the songs. Tickets are £7, email events@klvh.org or call 01249 750362 for more details.

• www.klvh.org

NEWYEAR, NEW START We know most New Year’s resolutions bite the dust soon after twelfth night!

Some, however, stick – such as a decision to get divorced. If you find yourself contemplating your future, here are some constructive suggestions from the experienced family lawyers at Goughs: • Consider couples counselling, it might be possible to save the marriage or improve communications.

• Choose your lawyer carefully. A recommendation from a trusted friend, relative or colleague is worth a lot.

• Make sure your lawyer is a member of the organisation with the perfect name for January - Resolution.

• Consider a collaborative divorce. A growing number of family lawyers (including four at Goughs) are trained specialists in this process, which commits to resolving disputes respectfully, for the benefit of the whole family, without involving the court.

• Listen to your lawyer’s advice. You are investing in his or her expertise, after all. An experienced family lawyer will always give realistic guidance.

• Be honest with your lawyer and your spouse about money. Don’t try to hide assets, or understate the value of what you have.

• Don’t involve the children. Hopefully they will enjoy a happy relationship with both parents if they’re not pushed into taking sides after a split.

• Be patient. Divorce takes time. It can sometimes seem interminable, but you’ll get there.

• And finally – be positive. There is life after divorce. You will benefit from the support of your family and friends.

Whether you’re making the decision or hearing it, Goughs can help. Let’s talk. Contact a member of our highly experienced Family law team today and make this New Year, Your New Year…

• www.goughs.co.uk THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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local news |

Brave Adventurers

Headmistress KAREN CORDEN says she wants her pupils at St Margaret’s Preparatory School, Calne, to be brave and adventurous, ready to take on whatever new challenges face them. to give new things a go. When children are aged four to five we want to give them a broad foundation of learning and to build self-esteem so they are ready to ‘have a go’ and are not afraid of failing. If they are always spoon-fed with the sole aim of achieving good exam results, children will struggle to become well rounded individuals, with a range of interests and hobbies.

I

believe that even very young children will respond positively if they are encouraged to do things for themselves. We put a very strong emphasis on children being independent so we ask parents of our three year old pupils to encourage their children to manage their own personal hygiene, to do up a zip, to have a go at putting on their school uniform and recognise their name. This gives them the confidence to go on and do other more adventurous things. We ask parents to focus on the

The school encourages children to explore their different talents and operates a system of positive rewards

Pupils are encouraged to try new things...

child ‘create’ something from a pile of cardboard boxes than recite the alphabet or their times tables.

Food can be a tricky subject – not usually for the children but for their parents. We decided to reduce the choice available at lunchtime for our younger children to encourage them to try new things. Our initiative worked and parents were amazed at the variety of foods their children were willing to try, with the staff leading by example of course!

I believe one of the most important things is for children to become ‘brave adventurers’ who are resilient and willing

The school encourages children to explore their different talents and operates a system of positive rewards rather than focusing on the negative.

They like to have boundaries so they know where they stand, understand what is expected of them and consequently feel safe and able to face new challenges - whether that be performing in front of an audience, reciting their times tables or, just as importantly, tying their shoelaces!

St Margaret’s is holding an Open Morning at 9.30am on Thursday 10 March. For further information or to register, contact Mrs Simone Hughes on 01249 857379 or email hughess@ stmargaretsprep.org.uk • www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk

...and to use their imaginations

‘practical’ elements and let us do the rest. The importance of this becomes apparent when, for example, a child has spent hours and hours being made to write their own name, but cannot put on their shoes, or more importantly communicate with others. Creativity is also very important for children as this helps them to feel confident, which then puts them in a very strong position to learn. We’d much rather see a young THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

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| local news

Impressionism: Capturing Life

I

The first of three exhibitions Holburne Museum is curating in-house to celebrate its centenary year in 2016.

mpressionism: Capturing Life, is the exquisite new exhibition at the Holburne Museum in Bath. Running from 13 February to 5 June 2016, it will bring together 28 masterpieces from British public collections to celebrate the Impressionists’ observations of humanity.

Renoir ‘Young Woman Seated’

The focus of the exhibition will be on figurative paintings by artists who exhibited at the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874 in Paris, including Edgar Degas, Berthe Morisot, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Alfred Sisley. Significant loans from Tate, The National Gallery, London and The Scottish National Gallery, among others, make up the 20 oil paintings that will feature alongside eight works on paper from the Holburne Collection by the important but often overlooked British Impressionist Sir George Clausen, founder-member of the New English Art Club. For the first time these works will be contextualized with the great Masters of French Impressionism.

The exhibition is shaped around four themes – ‘Painting of the Future’, ‘Private

The focus of the exhibition will be on figurative paintings by artists who exhibited at the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874 in Paris Worlds, Public Gaze’, ‘Modern Life’ and ‘Impressionism in Britain’ – each exploring different aspects of the movement’s development. Visitors to the exhibition will also receive an audio guide featuring interviews with the exhibition’s curator and Holburne Director Jennifer Scott, and

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celebrated contemporary artist Stephen Farthing, RA. The guide will discuss highlights including John Singer Sargent’s ‘Claude Monet Painting by the Edge of a Wood’, ‘Young Woman Seated’ by PierreAuguste Renoir and Mary Cassatt’s ‘The Young Girls’.

Impressionism: Capturing Life is the first of three exhibitions the Museum is curating in-house to celebrate its centenary year in 2016. This marks 100 years since Sir William Holburne’s collection moved to its current home in the Grade I listed building on Great Pulteney Street, which was fully restored with the addition of a glass and ceramic extension by Eric Parry Architects in

2011. Stubbs and the Wild (25 June to 2 October) and Silver: Light and Shade (22 October 2016 to 22 January 2017) will complete the special ticketed programme in the main exhibitions space, complemented throughout the year by new work from artist Djordje Ozbolt, whose incisive responses to the Collection will appear around the Museum in the autumn, as well as focused shows in the Davidson and Wirth galleries.

Impressionism: Capturing Life runs from 13 February – 5 June 2016. Admission is £10 for adults and £9 for concessions.

• www.holburne.org

interests |

LEARN

something

new

everY day From improving your cooking to learning a new language, let 2016 be the year you try something new and prove you can teach an old dog new tricks!

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| interests Dressmaking is just one of the courses available at The Craft Space

GET CRAFTY

If you have ever fancied learning something creative, then the new year is the perfect time to start. At The Craft Space on Court Street, Trowbridge, you’ll find a wide selection of classes and clubs in a friendly and inspiring setting. They teach everything from dress making, patchwork, knitting & crochet to tatting and photography to name just a few. They host events throughout the year and can run bespoke crafting parties, perfect for birthdays and hen dos. To find out more email workshops@katiemakes.co.uk, see the website or call 01225 762554.

• katiemakes.co.uk

IMPROVE YOUR KITCHEN KNOW HOW

The team at Vaughan’s Cookery School has been running cookery classes for more than a decade. They offer a wonderfully diverse range of Become a master chef with the help of Vaughan’s Cookery School

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Wiltshire College has 100s of full and part time courses available across 4 campuses

classes to suit anyone with an interest in improving their culinary skills.

From making bread to baking, rustling up tasty meals in minutes to the classical cuisine of France, there is scope to improve all aspects of your cooking. Their Saturday Cooking Clubs for mini chefs are popular with aspiring young cooks too. They have teamed up with local and regional partners and use locally produced organic products in all their classes, giving students the opportunity to find out more about the wonderful food available right on our doorsteps.

All classes can be viewed and booked online or call 01380 530203 for details.

• vaughanskitchen.co.uk

HONE YOUR DRIVING SKILLS Drive-Tech Ltd are the Skid Control, Karting and 4x4 Off Road experts based at Castle Combe Circuit. Their ultimate Driving Experiences will help you build individual skills, increase your confidence, improve your personal safety, raise your awareness and provide white knuckle tension all at the same time! Pushing anyone’s driving skills to new limits they make great presents, with vouchers from just £36 suitable for everyone aged 10 and over. For more details see the website or call 01249 783010.

• www.drivetechltd.co.uk

CHANGE YOUR CAREER & MORE Whether you want to start a new hobby, learn a language, develop new skills or even enhance your career, Wiltshire College could well provide the opportunity for you.

Based over the four campuses of Chippenham, Lackham, Trowbridge and Salisbury, Wiltshire College has 100s of full and part-time courses for adults starting this month, including crafts, creative writing, drawing and painting, interiors and textiles, jewellery making, music, photography and film, floristry and horticulture and languages.

If you are considering a career change or looking to return to learning, Wiltshire College also has plenty of options, with a Return to Learn course aimed at adults wanting to study at Level 3 and above.

Vocationally-based courses include agriculture and land-based studies, catering and hospitality, business, finance and management, catering and hospitality, computing and IT, engineering and manufacturing, construction and trades, health, social and child care, teaching, learning and assessment and hair and beauty and complementary therapies.

• www.wiltshire.ac.uk

interests |

MEET THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE

As we get older it can be difficult to meet new people. And for those who find themselves single, it can be very difficult to meet someone new.

Caroline Crowther Introductions was set up 20 years ago and has a strong reputation built on recommendation – many of their clients join the agency as a result of personal recommendations from friends or colleagues who they have matched successfully. There are different levels of membership to suit individual requirements, ranging from a

monthly listing to individual personal memberships, where proprietor Elaine Reynolds meets the client and personally prepares a profile.

Typically clients are age 45 and over.

Usually, they have tried internet dating or agencies before and been disappointed. If that sounds like

you don’t let that put you off giving Caroline Crowther a go – instead give them a call on 0800 056 3179, have a chat and see if they can help you find a new love this new year!

• www.carolinecrowther.com

FIND YOUR FOCUS

Photography is a great hobby that

Learn how to capture wonderful shots with Lacock Photography

“As we get older it can be difficult to meet new people. And for those who find themselves single, it can be very difficult to meet someone new.”

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| interests classes for members of the general public. Courses are high quality and supported by a hard-working managing team, just as you would expect from courses organised by one of the top universities in the UK. For further information visit the website, write to flc@bath.ac.uk or call 01225 383991.

• www.bath.ac.uk/flc

Marlborough College Summer School offers a huge variety of courses for all age groups

SIGN UP TO SUMMER SCHOOL

you can do on your own, with a partner, with a friend or in a group!

The secret of taking a brilliant photo is being in full control of your camera and knowing how to compose that great shot. Workshops at Lacock Photography, in beautiful Lacock, make learning these essentials a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

So, where do you begin? You may already have a camera, if not, Lacock Photography can lend you one for their Beginners’ Course and are pleased to provide guidance to help you choose the right one for you. A top tip is to pick up and handle the different models before buying to see what looks and feels right for you and importantly, will satisfy your photographic aspirations.

It’s the person behind the camera who creates that great picture, not the camera’s price tag!

Lacock Photography runs a very popular one day beginner’s digital photography course that will build your confidence and help you get the most from your camera to produce stunning images. Their courses provide a great opportunity to build your photography skills and to get inspired – don’t miss out!

• lacockphotography.com

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LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE Foreign language classes are a fun way to meet new people, to learn a useful skill and to embrace a new challenge. In recent years, with an increasingly globalised economy, foreign language skills have also become essential to stand out in a very competitive job market.

The Foreign Languages Centre at the University of Bath understands the importance of foreign language skills and inter-cultural awareness.

With a well-established programme, qualified teachers and great facilities, the Centre offers day-time, lunchtime and evening time

Established for more than 40 years, Marlborough College Summer School is a hugely successful annual event has grown beyond compare into the largest summer school of its kind in the country.

The ever changing course programme is refreshed and developed annually and this year is no exception with many tutors old and new offering a wide range of titles to run alongside traditional favourites.

The comprehensive programme for young people continues to prove a winning formula and is once again packed with fun and variety to suit all ages. The experience is truly all encompassing with ‘something for everyone’! Visit the website or phone 01672 892388 for the 2016 brochure.

• www.summerschool.org.uk

French is one of nine languages taught at the Foreign Languages Centre

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE? For a professional and personal service call

0800 180 4788 www.carolinecrowther.com

Helping you meet someone new in your area

Foreign Languages Centre Daytime, lunchtime & evening foreign language classes enrolling now!

We offer a wide range of foreign languages at beginner through to advanced level.

Arabic French German Greek Italian Japanese Korean Mandarin Chinese Portuguese Russian Spanish To find out more about the courses available, or to enrol, visit our website www.bath.ac.uk/flc and apply online or call 01225 383991.

| food & drink

Think Pig Seek out higher welfare RSPCA Assured Wiltshire-bred pork this new year available throughout the West Country and beyond...

S

even hundred feet above sea level in the Wiltshire Hills near Devizes is the award winning West End Farm. Family run for two generations, the farm produces higher welfare pork to RSPCA Assured standards. The farmer, Cameron Naughton and his wife Muriel, took over the family business in 2002, with the aim of rearing high quality pork with animal welfare as the priority.

“There are actually very few outdoor pig farmers in this part of the west country,” says Cameron. “The land quality for raising pigs is a constant challenge, but experience and new technology has helped us create an environment where we can manage larger scale, high welfare, outdoor breeding effectively.

“We’ve been members of the RSPCA Assured for many years now and we

won a Compassion in World Farming ‘Good Pig Award’ in 2013,” adds Cameron. In 2015 we were delighted to win the Pig and Poultry Marketing Pig Producer of the Year award. “I love raising animals well. Seeing them

comes from and how it is looked after,” says Cameron.

“It is a constant struggle to compete against much cheaper imported meat produced to lower welfare

I very much hope at the start of this new year people will increasingly seek out higher welfare products like ours, labelled RSPCA Assured. reared to exhibit natural behaviours just like they do here, rooting in grass and straw, wallowing in big natural pools of water – it’s brilliant.”

For many years Cameron has sold his pork to local Wiltshire butchers like Walter Rose & Son, Devizes.

Nationally it is available through Dorset based DB Foods, under the Brookfield Farm brand. “The last few years have seen people becoming increasingly aware and concerned about exactly where their food Cameron with his Duroc-Landrace pigs

standards. I very much hope at the start of this new year people will increasingly seek out higher welfare products like ours, labelled RSPCA Assured. It really is a very simple equation - the more people demand it, the more butchers and supermarkets will stock it, the more producers will raise their standards and the more animals will benefit.

“After a lifetime in pig farming I’m not sure if a bit of pig-headedness has rubbed off on me or if I was always like it,” concludes Cameron. “Dogs look up to you, cats look down on you, but pigs look at you as an equal.

The least we can do as farmers is treat them equally well.”

So when you are looking to buy pork this new year, be it from farm shops, butchers or local supermarkets be sure to look out for the RSPCA Assured label. You can also join in discussions and keep up-todate with the latest farm animal welfare and RSPCA Assured news on their website.

• www.rspcaassured.org.uk

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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.

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SEE WEBSITE FOR ALL OUR MENUS At The Greyhound we have a beautiful country garden complete with bouncy castle and toddler toys - weather permitting.

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Available Monday to Friday lunchtimes. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. T+Cs apply.

Valid until 29.02.16

OPEN DESPITE THE ROADWORKS! Situated on the picturesque Kennet & Avon Canal The Barge Inn offers excellent food, great Wadworth beers, an extensive wine list and much more.

JANUARY 2016 LUNCHTIME SPECIAL

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We offer a wide variety of homecooked food, real ales & fine wines. It’s the ideal place to enjoy food or a drink, with friendly efficient service, in stylish & comfortable surroundings.

Sign up to our mailing list and get £5 off your food bill when you spend £20! Details on our website.

Large function room perfect for weddings & celebrations. BOOK NOW FOR 2016!

Tel 01380 828230 www.bargeinnseend.co.uk

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

Seend Cleeve, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 6QB

A

PUB

| food & drink

The Barge Inn open for business

T

he pub trade is a tough industry to be in at the best of times, not least when the road outside is shut for roadworks! Urgent repairs commenced in late November to the canal bridge adjacent to the pub, repairs which are likely to carry on well into

spring. That is the obstacle facing The Barge Inn at Seend this new year, but with a diversion in place and the staff calling round to let regulars know they are still accessible and open for business, the team is determined to ‘Keep Calm & Carry On’!

The Barge is ideal for stopping off after a canalside walk

Away from the nuisance of essential roadworks, there are lots of reasons to head to The Barge over the coming weeks. There is the attraction of the Kennet & Avon canal of course, and the wonderful walks to be enjoyed at this time of year. The Barge is just the place to get cosy on a bracing winter’s day with their real log fires, range of teas, artisan roasted coffee and hot chocolate. Then there is the food - beautifully prepared and in January better value than ever with their Lunchtime Specials. Running from Monday to Thursday throughout January you can enjoy a two course lunch from their set menu for only £12.95. And throughout January and February every Friday evening will be a Mussel & Steak Night - call for details on 01380 828230.

• bargeinnseend.co.uk

Burns Night at The George

I

t’s been a busy few months for Alison Ward-Baptiste and her partner Alex Venables. Having extensively refurbished The George at Woolley they reopened in July and have been busy ever since!

Originally three Georgian houses, The George has been reborn, and revived as a proper community pub, offering everything from top cuisine to a friendly bar; relaxing coffee & cakes to private meeting rooms; gourmet wine dinners to family Sunday lunches.

With years of experience running venues like The Tollgate Inn in Holt, Alison and Alex know a thing or two about creating a convivial atmosphere and serving tasty food. The menu changes often, along with the best of what’s in season; during the winter months expect homemade soups

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like pea & mint, game terrines and wonderfully comforting dishes like Beef Wellington and confit duck leg with venison pie. All absolutely delicious. As well as the a la carte menu you can also choose something from their great value set lunch menu, and they are also become well known locally for their fabulous weekend breakfasts and Sunday roasts - be sure to book in advance.

The George is earning rave reviews for its stylings and its food

Rather than taking a breather after the Christmas rush, plans are already in place for a fantastic Burns Night Supper.

Taking place on Thursday 28 November, the menu costs £25 and bookings are now being taken. You can also start making reservations for Valentine’s Dinner on Saturday 13 February. Call for details on 01225 865650.

• thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

And they’re now taking bookings for Burns Night and Valentine’s

W G ’S NO KIN INE S TA ENT ING L K VA BOO

sebastien’s BISTRO

2 Bridge Yard, Kingston Mill, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1EJ

Flooded with natural light by day, and romantically candlelit by night, Sebastien’s is perfect for spending time with family and friends or as the setting for a romantic meal for two.

Our food is prepared daily on the premises, using only the best locally sourced produce. We use classical French cooking techniques to create simple, delicious and healthy dishes to suit all tastes.

set menu DINING OFFERS

Lunch 2 courses £12, 3 courses £15 Dinner 2 courses £16.50, 3 courses £21.50 Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 2pm & 6pm - 9pm 01225 938284 | www.sebastiens.co.uk | info@sebastiens.co.uk

+ LOCAL ALES + TOP QUALITY WINES + BEAUTIFUL FOOD + FULLY REFURBISHED + COOKERY DEMONSTRATIONSat as Gifts!

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The George has something for everybody.

Why not drop in for a drink, and discover it for yourself?

GS BOOKIN G IN E B W NO TAKEN

Burns Night Supper £25 Thursday 28 January Valentine’s Dinner Saturday 13 February

t 01225 865650 | 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk | thegeorgewoolley@gmail.com

| food & drink

eat the

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

A

nother new year! How time does fly! It seems like only yesterday I was writing January 2015. Now I am looking forward to the new growing season as the days slowly start to get longer and we have more light. All of the usual popular local vegetables as well as some new varieties we are trying out such as picolo parsnips (a lovely

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name for baby parsnips). Hopefully the weather will be kind like the last two growing seasons where we have seen some wonderful crops..

I am usually asked which is the most popular vegetable we sell, normally I say I can’t choose but it would be out of the following: leeks, savoy cabbage and cauliflower - and believe it or not sprouts! (I know some of you can’t stand them, they are definitely a Marmite vegetable - you either love them or hate them), whichever group you fit into you will admit they do signify a part of Christmas/ wintertime for many of us. I have to say that this winter the amazing celeriac (ugly though it is) is becoming very popular. It can be used in many ways and people are finally realising what a great taste it has and how versatile it can be. I like to mash it half and half with potato, give it a try if you

haven’t already. Send me your best suggestions for its use and I will add them to next month.

Other vegetables still available are curly kale, cavolo nero, parsnips, swede, red cabbage (a lovely winter choice and so easy to stick in the oven) and local potatoes.

I wonder if you do what we do in our house and cook your swede early on before Sunday lunch, cover with foil and then completely forget about it until someone says, halfway through lunch, “Wasn’t there going to be swede with this?”

As always please email me with any of your veg-related questions – ask about what to buy and where to find locally grown produce, or about what you could be growing in your window boxes, tubs, gardens and allotments.

Neil neil@lovejoyswholesale.com @lovejoysuk Find out more at www.lovejoyswholesale.com

recipes |

Healthy

New Year

Be inspired to lose weight and feel healthier in 2016 with these great tasting healthy dishes, which come courtesy of Waitrose.

Spicy Wholegrain Bowl With Tomato & Avocado Serves 2 • Low in saturated fat • 2 of your 5-a-day Ingredients ½ tbsp olive oil 1 medium free range egg, beaten 240g pouch Organic Quinoa & Wholegrain Rice 400g can chickpeas, drained & rinsed 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped 1–2 tsp harissa paste 1 ripe baby avocado, skinned and diced 2 salad onions, chopped Juice of ½ lime

�

Method Heat a splash of oil in a large frying pan. Add the egg and cook for a minute, scrambling until set. Tip out onto a plate.

Add a splash more oil to the pan and stir-fry the quinoa and rice mix, chickpeas, tomatoes and harissa paste for 4–5 minutes until piping hot.

Stir the cooked egg back in.

Meanwhile, roughly mash together the avocado, salad onion, lime juice and 1 tsp olive oil.

Divide the spicy grain and egg mixture between two bowls. Spoon the mashed avocado on top, scatter with coriander leaves and serve warm.

Cook’s tip Save any leftover grain and egg mix to make a hash. Simply serve alongside cold cuts, green leafy salad or your favourite grilled meat or fish.

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| recipes

Indian-spiced mackerel with carrot mash Serves 4 • Low in saturated fat • High in Omega 3 • Rich in Vitamin D Ingredients 1kg carrots, cut into 2cm pieces 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 tsp cumin seeds 4 mackerel fillets, defrosted if frozen 3 tbsp Spice Tailor tomato, garlic & chilli chutney ½ cucumber, grated 7 tbsp low fat Greek style yogurt 1 lime, juice of half, half in wedges ½ red onion, finely diced 1 green chilli, deseeded and finely diced ½ x 28g pack coriander, chopped

Serves 2 • Low in saturated fat • 2 of your 5-a-day Ingredients 100g rice noodles 2 x low salt beef stock cubes 1 small onion, finely chopped 3cm piece root ginger, peeled and thickly sliced 1 red chilli, seeded and thinly sliced 1 cinnamon stick 1 star anise 230g frying steak, trimmed of fat 150g beansprouts 235g green pak choi, thickly sliced 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves 1 lime, cut into wedges, to serve Method Place the noodles in a large bowl, cover with a kettleful of boiling water and leave to soak for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice to make sure the noodles don’t stick together.

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Meanwhile, cook the steak in a non-stick pan for 2–3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned but still a little pink in the centre. Transfer to a plate, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Stir the beansprouts and pak choi into the broth and cook for 2 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Drain the noodles and divide between 2 bowls. Ladle over the broth and vegetables then top with the sliced beef and coriander. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over.

Method Preheat the oven to 200˚C. Toss the carrots with the oil and cumin, season and spread on a foil-lined baking tray.

Roast for 40 minutes, until golden.

Meanwhile, rub the fish with the chutney; set aside.

Squeeze the grated cucumber to get rid of any excess water, then mix in a bowl with the yogurt, lime juice, onion and chilli; season.

Remove the carrots from the oven and heat the grill to high. Grill the mackerel for 2 minutes on each side. Crush the carrots with a fork, mix in the coriander and divide between plates. Top with the mackerel, spoon over the yogurt, and serve with lime wedges.

Cook’s tip The steak can be swapped for 150g raw king prawns. Stir into the soup 2 minutes before adding the beansprouts and pak choi and ensure they are cooked through before serving.

�

Fragrant Beef Noodle Soup

While the noodles are soaking, place the stock cubes, onion, ginger, chilli, cinnamon, star anise and 750ml boiling water in a large pan and bring back to the boil. Simmer for 10 minutes.

EAT Enjoy breakfast lunch and dinners, craft beers, wines & much more at The Lock Inn CafĂŠ beside the Kennet & Avon Canal. www.thelockinn.co.uk 01225 868068

PEDAL OR PADDLE TT Cycles is a premier bike shop offering sales and servicing whilst Towpath Trail offers bike and canoe hire. www.ttcycles.co.uk 01225 867187

SLEEP Widbrook Barns offers self contained, comfortable B&B barns in private grounds plus Gypsy Caravan stays. www.widbrookbarns.co.uk 01225 865049

| recipes

MEDITERRANEAN ROASTED HALLOUMI WITH BASIL DRESSING Serves 4 •1 of your 5 a day • Rich in vitamin C Ingredients 500g new potatoes, halved lengthways 3 peppers, seeds removed, sliced 1 tbsp lemon-infused olive oil 25g basil, stalks removed Zest of ½ lemon, plus squeeze of juice 125g cherry tomatoes, halved 125g light halloumi, thickly sliced

TUSCAN-STYLE WINTER VEGETABLE SOUP Serves 4 • Low calorie • Low in fat • 2 of your 5-a-day Ingredients Olive oil spray 1 onion, roughly chopped 1 large carrot, diced 1 tsp fennel seeds, roughly crushed 400g can chopped tomatoes with olive oil & chopped garlic 750ml vegetable stock 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped 1 Savoy cabbage, shredded 400g can borlotti beans, drained and rinsed 4 slices white bread

Add the fennel seeds and cook for a further minute.

Method Preheat the oven to 200ºC. Cook the potatoes in pan of boiling water for 5 minutes or until just tender. Drain, then tip into a large, shallow roasting tin and scatter over the sliced peppers.

Pour in the tomatoes and stock and bring to a simmer. Stir in the rosemary and cabbage, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the beans and simmer for a further 5 minutes.

Place the olive oil, basil leaves, lemon zest and juice into a small blender with some seasoning and blend until coarsely chopped. Pour over the vegetables and toss to coat. Roast for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat a griddle pan until hot. Lay the slices of bread on it and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side, until charred. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with the griddled bread.

Turn up the heat to 220ºC. Add the halved tomatoes and sliced halloumi to the tray and roast for a further 5–10 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown. Serve straightaway.

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�

Method Spritz the bottom of a large, heavybased pan with olive oil spray. Add the onion and carrot and cook over a medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

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open all day, every day, for breakfast, lunch & dinneR

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| food & drink

Feeling Juicy

J

Juice your way to a healthy, energetic new you in 2016!

uicing may be the new black for 2016, but with over 25 years of organic fruit and veg growing experience, farmer-owned vegbox scheme Riverford is no stranger to the benefits of getting your 5-a-day.

Parsnip, PeaR & Apple

Green Juice

Sounds strange, but parsnips are sweet, so they work well in this juice.

2 medium-large parsnips 2 pears 1 apple Simply blitz together and serve.

Riverford’s farmers select their fruit and veg for flavour, therefore always bringing you the freshest produce right to your door. If you are looking to shed a few pounds or are trying to incorporate more fruit and veg into your daily routine in 2016 juicing can be a great way to do this. As well as homegrown kale, carrots and beetroot you’ll also be able to order other juicing favourites such as apples, ginger, celery and pears. Apples, carrots, blood oranges and beetroot available in 3kg or 5kg pack sizes. See the website for details.

Carrot, Apple & Ginger

Full of fresh green goodness - add an apple if you prefer it a little sweeter.

150g curly kale ½ cucumber ½ head of broccoli (stalk & florets) Squeeze of lemon juice, to taste Juice the kale, cucumber and broccoli, then add lemon to taste.

If you fancy giving juicing a try, Riverford has come up with some tasty recipes to try (you will need a juicer to make them). Each recipe makes 250-300ml.

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Our favourite juice, by a carrot top length!

3 large carrots (350-400g), scrubbed very clean 1 apple, whole, stalk removed 10g piece fresh ginger, unpeeled Simply juice together and serve.

Beetroot & Celery Beetroot has quite a strong flavour when you juice it and needs something to dilute it - this uses celery.

You could add the juice of an orange too, or a blood orange.

2 sticks celery, trimmed 1 large or 2 medium beetroot, scrubbed, skin on, top & bottom root trimmed off Simply blitz together and serve.

• www.riverford.co.uk

The magazine MISSED THE LATEST ISSUE? DON’T WORRY...

YOU CAN READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE VIA YOUR DESKTOP, LAPTOP, TABLET OR MOBILE PHONE NO SUBSCRIPTION REQUIRED www.wired-publishing.co.uk

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HORSESHOES

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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

We have been trading in Wiltshire for 20 years, and are specialists in writing Wills, advising on Trusts and helping with Probate.

Lasting Power of Attorney

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

To make an appointment for a home visit please telephone:

01225 400060

Head Office: Redbridge House, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EW www.wtponline.co.uk | david@wtponline.co.uk | 01225 400060

e s n .

later life |

Retirement

Planning

From help at home to retirement apartments, pensions to funeral planning, it pays be be prepared, whether you are caring for a loved one or planning for your own later life‌

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

39

| later life

CARE & CARE HOMES

Ann Mason Care

ANN MASON LIVE-IN CARE Ann Mason Care (AMC) is a wellestablished and reputable company that provides live-in care in Bath and West Wiltshire.

AMC’s aim is to help clients maintain their independence and lifestyle in the comfort of their own home. This is a cost effective and dignified care option that is proving increasingly popular as it allows clients to stay in control of their daily routines.

AMC carers live with each client and provide services that include general housework, preparing meals, help with pets and assisting with appointments. They are also able to provide more specialised care such as help with dementia and assistance with medication and bathing.

AMC support long term and short term care situations including transition to home after a spell in hospital and respite for the primary carer. Whatever your reasons for needing their help, Ann Mason Care believes compassion, respect and companionship are fundamental to providing quality care. Call 01225 632223 or see the website to find out more.

• www.annmasoncare.co.uk

“AMC’s aim is to help clients maintain their independence and lifestyle in the comfort of their own home.”

CAREWATCH Enjoying good quality life experiences are important to everyone. These include being able to maintain independence, having control over decisions that affect our lives, maintaining health, learning

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and maintaining skills and having the respect of others around us. This is important in every area of our lives especially in our own homes. This is where Carewatch can help. The dedicated staff work within their local communities assisting those who need extra help and personal care to do those activities that have become more difficult. The care and support worker can help in many ways providing assistance, reassurance and encouragement to meet the challenges of everyday life. They will provide support and friendship for you and are trained to recognise that there may be a need for more personal care and support and can help you with your more intimate daily routine such as washing and

getting ready in the morning. They can provide more intensive care following an illness, discharge from hospital or long-term caring needs, call 01225 719333 for details.

• www.carewatch.co.uk

CHANTRY COURT RETIREMENT VILLAGE Chantry Court is designed specifically to enable everyone to live retirement to the full – whatever their health and mobility. Of the 68 apartments, 55 provide ‘Independent Living’. Go inside, and the look and feel is of a luxury apartment in a well-appointed private development. Only when you study the smaller details do you see they’ve been cleverly and subtly designed for occupiers who aren’t as Carewatch

| later life Chantry Court

and all the stairlifts supplied are slimline models not the older more bulky ones. The stairlifts are slim fitting, ensuring the stairs can be used by others, have easy to use controls and a remote control system for calling the lift. Call Mark on 01985 800150 to find out more.

• www.spitfirestairlifts.co.uk

WILTSHIRE FARM FOODS For people who want to enjoy life to the full, there aren’t always enough hours in the day to prepare a meal from scratch or go shopping. With a delicious range of frozen meals in their own homes in safety and “Only when you study delivered directly to the front door, comfort for as long as they can.

Their the smaller details do you Wiltshire Farm Foods helps people team of nurses can help with a wide see they’ve been cleverly eat well and look after themselves in range of needs and requirements, and subtly designed for their own home, whatever their plans. including personal care, lunches, occupiers who aren’t as Wiltshire Farm Foods’ award-winning general cleaning, laundry, shopping, nimble as they once were. “ medication prompting, safety visits chefs and dietitians have cooked up Chantry Court and sitting services. They cover a range of over 300 delicious dishes – from breakfast through to evening nimble as they once were. On hand a large proportion of the West are all the resources and facilities Wiltshire area, including, Bradford on meals. Each meal is prepared using quality ingredients from trusted to make life relaxed and fulfilling.

Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge and suppliers, with great care taken to A central area has a restaurant, bar, surrounding villages. What’s more lounge, bridge room, library, hair they operate 7 days a week, 365 days serve up nutritious, tasty food in an salon, therapy room, doctor’s surgery a year, so you can be sure you, or your ethical and sustainable way. and even a cinema whilst the social loved one will be looked after. Call to Convenience is another big part of calendar is brimming with visits, find out more on 01225 350612. the Wiltshire Farm Foods service. talks, quiz evenings and more. With • www.safecare-wiltshire.co.uk All meals can be ordered over the trained staff on site 24/7, the security phone, online or by post with free is a real comfort, as is the knowledge PRODUCTS & SERVICES delivery directly to your front door that help is always on hand and if by a friendly, police-checked delivery you’ve ever even just considered SPITFIRE STAIRLIFTS LTD driver, who is always happy to stack the idea of a move to a retirement Warminster based company meals away neatly in the freezer. village, then what better way of Spitfire Stairlifts Ltd provide stairlift seeing whether you like it than taking sales, rental, repair and servicing in When you’re ready to eat, simply advantage of an all-inclusive Respite Wiltshire and surrounding counties. remove the meal you fancy and pop Care Package which start from £450/ The business is owned and run by it straight in the microwave or oven week. Call 0800 014 7552 to make Mark Scott who is an Acorn trained to cook from frozen in a matter of an appointment to have a look for stairlift engineer. The service that yourself.

Mark provides is friendly, efficient and minutes. There’s no preparation, no pots and pans, just delicious meals • www.chantrycourt.com professional and he will even come to be enjoyed in your own home, in to your home for a no obligation your own time.

SAFECARE survey. He can supply and fit starlifts Safe Care is a local company that for curved and straight stairs and the Another big benefit of Wiltshire Farm helps older people with those day to re-conditioned lifts can usually be Foods is that the service is completely day tasks that get much more difficult installed the very next day. What’s commitment-free, customers can as we get older, helping them stay more they all have a 1 year warranty

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| later life Wiltshire Farm Foods

KINGFISHER IFA How you choose to build up cash or other assets for your retirement is up to you. There is no doubt that saving, using the tax advantages and relatively low cost of a pension plan, is the best way to build up the largest lump sum. Pensions have changed dramatically, now benefiting from far more freedom, flexibility and choice than ever before. The Government stakeholder initiative has slashed charges and you no longer have to buy a fixed annuity or accept poor investment choice. Unspent pension funds can also now be bequeathed to survivors and even the next

“Pensions have changed dramatically, now benefiting from far more freedom, flexibility and choice than ever before.”

Kingfisher IFA

order as much or as little as they like, whenever it suits them. And with main meals starting at just £2.95, they offer good value as well as nutrition and flavour. For more information about Wiltshire Farm Foods in contact 01225 776793 or visit the website for a free NEW brochure.

• www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com

LEGAL & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE abdcare

44

The ageing population, and the juggernaut that is the cost of elderly care (either at home or in a more structured residential environment), is what abdcare is all about. The system of care is complicated. abdcare help explain the ins and outs of the system and provide bespoke solutions for those with long term care issues.

Specifically abdcare advises on THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

generation, often tax free so there is less excuse than ever before! It is however vital to grasp that your the system, how to get assessed retirement provision will need to for community based care or NHS be in the hundreds of thousands Continuing Health Care. abdcare of pounds before a decent income also specialises in asset protection can be realised after you retire. This to include the provision of Lasting Powers of Attorney, appointment out sounds daunting but there are things of pension benefits, issues relating to you can do. Start now by reviewing people’s houses and how it should be any existing private pension owned plus Wills. Particular emphasis arrangements you have to see if you can reduce charges and boost is placed upon lifetime gifts and performance. Also ensure you are at Trusts to take advantage of the 7 least saving something every month year rule. via a modern flexible investment ISA or competitive pension arrangement.

Another aspect of abdcare is with regard to elderly abuse. This is a big issue whether it be financial, physical, When you reach retirement age do not undo all the good work by psychological or otherwise. abdcare simply accepting the first annuity you can advise, help and, importantly, are offered; there are now so many protect you and your loved ones from elderly abuse. The office is open choices and so much freedom that from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. it is easy to make the wrong choice Call for free on 0800 0728 636 to find and undo all your years of saving.

By contrast Kingfisher IFA regularly out more. deliver significant boosts to client’s • www.abdcare.co.uk

Kingfisher Financial Planning INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Offering good, honest, advice to help you make the most of your money

SPECIALIST IN RETIREMENT & INVESTMENT PLANNING

ALSO • Critical Illness, Life Cover & Estate Planning • Chartered Financial Planner

01225 776652

richard@kingfisherifa.co.uk

Contact RICHARD today to find out more!

• Fully independent • First meeting at our expense www.kingfisherifa.co.uk

19 Timbrell Street, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 8PP

| later life income, as well as giving flexibility and control to those who seek professional advice making this time well spent. As one of the regions most qualified and experienced IFAs Richard Salter, a Bradford on Avon resident and Partner at Kingfisher Trowbridge, is pleased to offer a no obligation free first meeting to help ensure you are on track, enjoying the best value for money and decent growth prospects as well as making the most informed retirement choices when the time comes.

Contact Richard on 01225 776652.

• richard@kingfisherifa.co.uk WTP Online

Co Operative Funeralcare

health, so you need to act as soon as possible. WTP Online are specialists in writing Wills, advising on Trusts and helping with Probate. To make an appointment for a home visit telephone 01225 400060.

• www.wtponline.co.uk

Co-operative Funeralcare branches across the UK and includes a 28 day cooling off period for complete peace of mind. To find out more, visit a local branch in Frome, Warminster or Westbury or visit the website.

• www.funeralcare.co.uk

FUNERAL PLANNING

YOUNG JOHNSON

Young Johnson is a specialist masonry firm based in Westbury. It is a family business, now in its sixteenth year, looked after by Nick and The Southern Co-operative Helen Johnson who are dedicated Funeral Plan is tailored to your to supplying the highest quality individual needs so you can choose WTP ONLINE of personal attention and service. exactly what you want.

The cost If you have money or property and Each of the memorials is individually is guaranteed and inflation proof, become unable to deal with your crafted to the highest standards protecting you and your loved ones affairs because of an using only the best quality materials. from ever-rising costs. accident or illness your assets may They specialise in crafting memorial be frozen. If you have a stroke, or headstones, carvings, kitchen work The average cost of a funeral has develop Alzheimer’s, your family soared well above the rate of inflation areas, fireplaces and any other type may have to apply to the courts to in recent years and is expected to rise of stone masonry. Young Johnson deal with your affairs. This can be expensive, may take a year or more to further. By choosing to plan now, you use traditional and modern methods complete and a large sum of money are paying at today’s prices. Whether to produce new memorials but can also help with renovations and the funeral takes place in 5 or 10 may have to be deposited with the additional inscriptions. Individual years time, there will be no extra or courts. hidden costs to your partner, relatives designs can be made to order and they will even arrange a home visit A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal or executor. with no obligation if it is necessary. document that gives somebody An easy payment scheme allows you The friendly and well informed staff of your choice the power to deal will be happy to assist you so contact to spread the cost from one to five with your financial affairs if for any them on 01373 859629 to discuss years through monthly instalments, physical or mental reason you were securing the cost for a fixed monthly your requirements with one of the unable to. It is the only document payment. The Southern Co-operative specialists they have on site. which gives this power but you can • www.youngjohnson.com Funeral Plan is valid in over 1,100 only complete one while in good

CO OPERATIVE FUNERALCARE

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Young Johnson MONUMENTAL MASONS

Traditional & Modern Memorials produced in our own workshop.

• • • • •

New Memorials Renovations Additional Inscriptions Individual Designs made to order Home visits arranged with no obligation

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT The Lodge, Westbury Cemetary, Bratton Rd, Westbury

Tel: 01373 859629 www.youngjohnson.com

ABD CARE FP_A5 Dummy Gridmaster 27/05/2015 09:58 Page 1

TIDY GARDEN SERVICES • EXTENSIONS & CONVERSIONS • PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT & MAINTENANCE • RENOVATIONS • NEW BUILDS • KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

_______________ “For all your building requirements”

_______________ t: 01747 820422 e: info@pfparsons.co.uk w: www.pfparsons.co.uk Unit 1, Wylye Road, Hindon, Salisbury SP3 6ER

FENCING, DECKING, PAVING ETC 10+ years experience in landscaping & associated works Give BEN a call today on

01225 781646 / 07870 811292

| house & home

Gray’s Carpets

Following their best ever year, Gray’s Carpets have celebrated by revamping their showroom and introducing a host of new ranges.

Kelvin & Jayne Gray

appraisal of each type of flooring - its strengths and its pitfalls. It is a big deal purchasing new flooring, so we try our hardest to make it as easy as possible.

A lot of our business comes from happy customers coming back to us and from their recommendations.”

At Gray’s Carpets they are so confident in their pricing policy that if you find the same carpet cheaper elsewhere, they promise to price match. Carpet prices range from £5.99 per square metre up to £40 per square metre and Gray’s will not be beaten on price.

L

ast year was the most successful ever for Gray’s Carpets, the family-run business which has been trading at Crockerton Shopping Centre near Warminster for more than 19 years.

At Gray’s Carpets they are so confident in their pricing policy that if you find the same carpet cheaper elsewhere, they promise to price match.

Owners Kelvin and Jayne Gray are delighted with the business’s continuing success and have undertaken a refurbishment of the showroom, installing a new display area equipped with the latest carpet designs and colours, including bleach cleanable carpet and advanced wipe clean technology.

Kelvin, who has some 32 years experience in the carpet trade, said: “After trading for almost 20 years and

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Both Kelvin and Jayne are happy to give advice on installations and thanks to fantastic customer support, they also offer a free measuring we enjoyed our best year yet in 2015, and estimating service, recording which has allowed us to invest and all measurements themselves to refurbish our showroom. We have had ensure accuracy. There is always a a total refurbishment, bringing in new regularly changing selection of roll brands like Amtico, Natural Solutions end remnants and clearance bargains and Quick-Step. Pop in and see the in store and the team also offer a new ranges, which incorporate the best supply and fit service within 48 hours laminate, LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) and on all carpets using their own team engineered wood flooring available. of fully trained fitters. You can even To celebrate the introduction of these take advantage of their free furniture new ranges we will also be running lots moving and old carpet disposal of fantastic value introductory offers, service. Their fitters will come in and so if you are looking to invest in new carefully remove your furniture, lay the flooring in 2016 be sure to come and new carpet and put everything back in see what’s available.” place – all as part of the service. They also provide a full flooring aftercare Kelvin and Jayne, who live in nearby service should any problems arise.

Longbridge Deverill, are not your average salespeople and are wellGray’s Carpets is located at Crockerton known for their excellent customer Shopping Centre, just off the A350, service. “We put our customers’ with free parking outside and disabled satisfaction before any monetary access. The showroom is open Monday gain,” says Kelvin. “Good old-fashioned to Saturday from 9am-5pm. For more customer service is paramount and we information call 01985 219916 or email don’t expect any payment up front. sales@grayscarpets.co.uk Customers get our full and undivided attention as well as our honest • www.grayscarpets.co.uk

SOVEREIGN DAMP PROOFING

Gray’smatch Carpets & CONSTRUCTION LTD perfect Find your at Gray’s Carpets.

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS Rising Damp - Basement Waterproofing Specialist Re-Plastering Replacement Wall Ties Woodworm, Dry & Wet Rot Treatment

Majestic, Polished Silver, Brintons

APPROVED CONTRACTOR FOR THE NATIONAL TRUST & THE CROWN ESTATES

Come & visit our newly refurbished showroom

Approved Delta Membrane Installer

FREE 30 YEAR GUARANTEE Protected guarantee available - working to BS6576

Email: scott@sovereigndpc.co.uk www.sovereigndpc.co.uk

Come and see our newly refurbished showroom

01249 716161 / 01225 811222

Opening offers available on all new ranges

Unit 1, Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Leafield Ind Estate Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN

sales@grayscarpets.co.uk • 01985 219916 • www.grayscarpets.co.uk Crockerton Shopping Centre, Warminster, Wilts BA12 8AP

ACTIVE

PLUMBING SUPPLIES TROWBRIDGE LTD

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

OPENING OFFERS AVAILABLE ON OUR Amtico®, Natural Solutions® ® FIND LUXURY RANGES and Quick-Step BATHROOMS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES!

Gray’s Carpets

TROWBRIDGE SHOWROOM OPEN We are the nUmBeR one source for heating and plumbing in Polished Silver, Brintons Trowbridge Majestic, and surrounding areas.

We can supply a huge range of products: Radiators Boilers Cylinders Underfloor Heating Complete Bathroom Suites

01225 765000

sales@grayscarpets.co.uk • 01985 219916 • www.grayscarpets.co.uk www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk Crockerton Shopping Centre, Warminster, Wilts BA12 8AP

| house & home

New year, new kitchen?

Formosa Kitchens in Bradford on Avon specialises in the design, supply and installation of beautiful, quality kitchens.

Formosa create beautiful kitchens and help keep costs low

“Using a local supplier is hugely beneficial, keeping costs lower and making the process as simple and stress free as possible.”

C

reated and run by Natasha Allin, Formosa Kitchens of Silver Street, Bradford on Avon, has been providing the local area with a personalised, professional kitchen service since 2011. ‘’We pride ourselves on our service, knowledge and understanding, ensuring our customer’s practical needs, wants and wish list items can all fit coherently within their design. Combining this with the balance of budget and styles, we can help create each client’s dream kitchen. Using a local supplier is hugely beneficial to clients and tradesmen alike, keeping costs lower and making the process as simple and stress free as possible.”

Catering for all tastes and budgets, Formosa can create your perfect kitchen and, if required, can arrange the installation too, ensuring continued quality throughout. With a friendly and relaxed approach, they

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aim to make the customer feel at ease when taking on such an important project. It is this approach that has won them fans across the area. Mr & Mrs H from Bath said “They’re a great company to deal with, very professional and thorough but still maintaining the human touch which the multiples don’t have”, whilst Mr & Mrs C from Devizes commented “We are delighted with our fantastic new kitchen and at such a modest price!

The fitters too were first class; absolute perfectionists!”

of a transformation can be achieved with a little know how and guidance.

Just come and speak to us to find out more!”

Drop into the showroom this new year to discuss your requirements and have your kitchen dreams realised. You can also take a peak at the new Franke Omni 4 in 1 kitchen mixer tap – it’s sure to be a big hit! Formosa is open Tuesday to Friday 9am to 5pm and on Saturdays from 9am to 4pm.

• www.formosakitchens.co.uk

As well as full kitchen redesigns, Formosa are also able to offer refresh projects, whether it be replacing worktops, splashbacks or door fronts or a combination of all three. Natasha said. “Obviously a new kitchen is fantastic, but sometimes the budget just won’t stretch. We often get asked how to improve on what is already there and It is amazing how much

The new Franke 4in1 mixer tap

Now offering beautifully designed kitchens, or kitchen replacement doors - with FREE innovative design and planning service

• StuNNiNg RaNgES: coNtEmpoRaRy, tRaditioNal paiNtEd gloSS & moRE • ExpERt dESigN aNd iNStallatioN • appliaNcES FRom all thE iNduStRy’S lEadiNg maNuFactuRERS • thE homEmakER cuStomER caRE & aFtER SalES SERvicE

See our range of stunning armchairs & sofas instore today!

JANUARY SALE

NOW ON! 01985 847031 | sofacoplus@yahoo.co.uk| www.sofaco.co.uk | 15 George Street, Warminster, BA12 8QA

| house & home

Be Inspired

With a newly refurbished studio STEPHEN GRAVER can inspire even more clients to create their dream home.

Stephen Graver’s studio is open to the public

wander around the space. Seeing the studio will is great for seeing examples of the kind of work they do, observing the exquisite level of finish you can expect and looking at some of the appliances that could be installed in your home. You could even have an informal chat with Stephen himself.

Visit the website or call 01380 871746 for more information or join Stephen Graver on Facebook or Twitter.

• www.stephengraver.com

B

ased in Steeple Ashton, Stephen Graver Ltd specialises in creating bespoke projects based specifically on each client’s needs whilst also reacting to the space their home affords. From award-winning bespoke kitchens and bathrooms to commissioned pieces of furniture, their team offers stunning interior solutions.

which the project grows. Stephen Graver takes time and real care over the design, ensuring all functional requirements are met, while looking for features to make every project personal and unique. Everything is designed and manufactured at their factory on site in Wiltshire; you can even arrange a time to come and see your project taking shape.

Stephen Graver Ltd also offers a building renovation service; sometimes creating a perfect room requires an extension or alteration of

Also located on site is their stunning studio. Following a recent refurbishment this is now open to the general public, Monday to Friday

Stephen Graver takes time & real care over the design, ensuring all functional requirements are met, while looking for features to make every project personal and unique. the existing space. Stephen personally visits every client for an initial design consultation. The design is the starting point, and the foundations from

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between 9am and 5pm. Everyone is openly encouraged to visit the studio, either arrange a visit or just pop in.

Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as you

| house & home

A Marriage of Old & New SUE COLEMAN from Perfect Rooms in Gastard, near Corsham, discusses the biggest trend in interior design in 2016 and how to incorporate it into your home.

T

he idea of marrying the old and new is ingrained into our lifestyles. From blending vintage clothing with high street buys to decorating with a mix of secondhand furniture and designer fabrics it is something we have all grown accustomed to. And anyone who has bought their first home has had to beg, borrow and

Sunburst Mirror, £199, M&S

contemporary flavour with contrasting materials, colours and textures to give a wonderfully confident and eclectic look? It can be difficult to pull off (no one wants to look like they live in a junk shop!), and at Perfect Rooms we can always assist you of course, but there are several ways of doing it, here are a few tips…

UNIFY THROUGH COLOUR

When merging pieces from different design styles, a coat of paint can easily help you unify furniture that otherwise would look at odds. Alternatively, take one or two tones from a beautiful cushion fabric or wallpaper and pick them out in other items throughout the room. The repetition of one shade will help to bring the design together.

There are some amazing wallpapers and fabrics out there at the moment that can help transform your living space.

PICK A STATEMENT PIECE

steal their start up furnishings and make them work together. If your home needs a refresh this new year why not try mixing items (not necessarily expensive) from yesteryear and giving them a

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From a beautiful lamp to a treasured possession, take something that means something to you and use it as your focal point from which to complement and contrast. Dow you have a stack of pictures from time spent travelling? Why not make a picture wall using lots of different styles of frames, old and new? It’s personal to you, it’s fun and you’ll definitely spend more time looking at your photos than if they were just backed up on your computer.

BE BOLD

Perhaps you don’t mind your handme-down furniture, but if you want something a little more interesting why

not change its colour or if it is fabric, why not reupholster? Boring or out of date furniture can be livened up no end with a can or two of spray paint and/or a new set of covers in a fun new fabric. At Perfect Rooms we have a fantastic range of fabrics from all the top designers.

To find out more pop into the showroom in Gastard where you can look at all the fabric, wallpaper, furnishings and homewares – you might even find that statement piece you have

When merging pieces from different design styles, a coat of paint can easily help you unify furniture that otherwise would look at odds. been looking for! If you need some help with your design we also offer an initial free consultation and can arrange a no obligation quotation too.

• www.perfectrooms.co.uk Little Greene wallpaper

FOR GREAT DESIGN IDEAS THIS NEW YEAR, COME & VISIT OUR

INSPIRATIONAL SHOWROOM AT SILVER STREET, GASTARD, SN13 9PY

FEATURING

New furniture ranges, Vincent Sheppard, Whitehead Designs, Bespoke Furniture, Curtains & Blinds, Interior Design, Fabrics & Wallpaper, Flooring, Gifts Parking is available in front of showroom

• www.perfectrooms.co.uk • Tel: 01249 716445 • perfectrooms@btconnect.com

health & wellbeing |

Restore

& Revive From getting fit and feeling energised to indulging in a bit of ‘me time’ after a hectic festive season, here’s our guide to feeling great in 2016.

Bowood

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| health & wellbeing

BOWOOD Calne Bowood is the perfect place to detox with a treatment in their spa or a round of golf on their championship course. Winding through the Estate, the beautifully manicured course blends perfectly with the countryside. A driving range is situated next to the 3-hole Academy course and is a great place to practice your skills. Alternatively you can relax and indulge mind and body at The Spa. Take a dip in the infinity pool with its breathtaking views, work out in the gym, or treat yourself to a range of treatments, designed to leave you feeling revived and pampered.

From spa breaks to day packages, Bowood offers a haven of calm in a busy world. Bowood brings you the ultimate in pampering and relaxation treatments, enabling you to restore your physical and mental wellbeing. Membership opportunities are available at both The Spa and Golf at Bowood bringing a wealth of privileges.

01249 822228 | bowood.org

"From spa breaks to day packages, Bowood offers a haven of calm in a busy world."

CONNECT WITH REIKI Corsham Reiki’s true translation is ‘Spiritual Energy’, it is all around us and within us. Reiki is a method of channelling this energy through the hands to activate the natural healing processes of the body and restore physical and emotional wellbeing. It is not a belief system, it is not a religion and does not contradict any religious faith - it works with them.

Everything has energy or ‘ki’ in it. There is an unlimited amount of energy even though it may seem invisible, it is encompassing. It is the fuel that drives humans and the world, giving the

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Deb’s Dance Fitness

ultimate structure and purpose in life.

This is Reiki. We become true to our way and being. Jenny Newman also runs Reiki training from Corsham, teaching students from all around the UK who are looking to start the journey of Reiki and to achieve a deeper understanding of the teachings of Mikao Usui. She teaches three levels from beginners through to Master/Teacher level.

01249 714839 | connectwithreiki.co.uk

DEB'S DANCE FITNESS Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge, Warminster, Westbury Debbie Bailey offers a range of fitness classes to suit all ages and abilities – giving you the opportunity to get fit, socialize and meet new people. Debbie is best known for her hugely popular Zumba Fitness and Zumba Gold (aimed at beginners and the over 50s) workouts.

Workouts with a party feel, classes take place on different days at Leigh Park Community Centre, Warminster Civic Centre, Paxcroft Mead Community Centre and more – see her advert or website for more information. Other classes include Clubbercise! which offers fresh, fun, easy-to-follow dance routines to club classics and the latest dance anthems – and Dancing’ Thru The Decades, which has easy routines (ideal for 50+ and beginners) that are low impact, have no complicated choreography and are a great way to

burn off those Christmas calories. New for 2016 Debbie is teaming up with Maria Gonzalez to launch a new fitness, pilates and core conditioning class at Trowbridge Town Hall. Classes begin on 21 January and will take place every Thursday at 10am.

07941 112893 | debszumbafitness.co.uk

FACE 2 FACE CLINIC Trowbridge If you want to look good, feel younger and more confident in 2016 consider a visit to Face 2 Face Medical Cosmetic Clinic in Trowbridge. It is a known fact that, as we get older, both men and women see the effects of ageing, our skin loses volume, begins to sag and becomes more lined around the eyes and forehead. Whilst no one can halt the ageing process we can help significantly reduce the visible signs of ageing using the latest, most effective non-surgical cosmetic procedures available.

If you have seen the excesses of the festive season take their toll on your

Face 2 Face Clinic

e debbiebailey4@sky.com m 07941 112893 w www.debszumbafitness.co.uk CLUBBERCISE Fresh, fun, easy to follow dance routines to club classics from 90’s rave to the latest dance anthems.

Classes are taught in a darkened room with disco lights and glow sticks!

MON 7-8pm Leigh Park Community Centre, Westbury

ZUMBA FITNESS & BODY CONDITIONING Workout with a party feel!

TUES 7.15pm Paxcroft Mead Community Centre, Hilperton

ALL CLASSES

£5! or 2 for £8

WEDS 7.30-8.30pm Warminster Civic Centre

(Leigh Park only)

THURS 7-8pm St James Church Hall, Trowbridge For other classes in Trowbridge & Warminster see website

THURS 6.457.45pm Leigh Park Community Centre, Westbury with instructor Mike Leitch

MIND BODY FOR 50+ & WORKOUT FOR CORE BEGINNERS & BACK STRENGTH Sing-a-long music Using pilates mini balls & fun routines to for extra support. Mats help stimulate body provided.

TUES 8.20pm Paxcroft Mead Community Centre, Hilperton WEDS 9.45 -10.45am & THURS 8-9pm Leigh Park Community Centre, Westbury

& mind

MON 11.30-12.30pm & WEDS 11.30-12.30pm Leigh Park Community Centre, Westbury TUES 10.15-11.10am Codford Village Hall

TUES 12.30-1.30pm FITNESS PILATES & Church Hall, CORE CONDITIONING St James Trowbridge A combination of pilates THURS 12-1pm and core conditioning to St Margaret’s Hall, improve posture, tighten Bradford on Avon abs and strengthen FRI 10-11am the back THURS 10am

STARTING 21 JANUARY

Trowbridge Town Hall

Warminster Civic Centre

FIT STEPS

DANCIN’ THRU

THE DECADES Workout inspired by Strictly Come Dancing - burn up to 700 cals NEW WORKOUT! an hour!

Suitable for 50+ & beginners Natalie Lowe & Ian Simple, low impact Waite have devised routines set to this a fun routine for Different genres of all abilities. It uses basic music from 60s to movements from Present day. ballroom routines and puts them into a Just £4.50 per fitness format. session!

MON 10-11am Leigh Park Community Centre, Westbury Instructor Debbie Bailey

WEDS 6.15-7pm Leigh Park Community Centre, Westbury

| health & wellbeing smile you might also want to consider professional teeth whitening. Costing just £145, this simple, cost effective treatment can give you a wonderful confident smile. All treatments are preceded by FREE consultations. Face 2 Face Clinic strongly believes in practicing safe procedures and obviously wants their clients to be happy with both their results and their treatment. The Clinic also offers follow-up appointments on some treatments. Call today or email face2faceclinic@ymail.com for details.

01225 761824 | face2faceclinic.com

SANTOSHA STUDIO / YOGA GOODIES Chippenham Yoga works on every level of your being - your physical, movement body gets stronger, muscular tension eases and you may indeed become more flexible (and youthful feeling!). Yoga also works internally - bringing support, stimulation and balance back to your internal systems and helping you to slow down the mind, pay

Santosha Studio / Yoga Goodies

better attention to what you’re doing and watch your own inner reactivity and resistance. If you want it to be, yoga can be a powerful process of transformation...but maybe you just want to be able to touch your toes again? It can do that too.

Yoga can support you to rediscover your lost wholeness, vitality and potential. People begin a yoga practice (lots of them in January!) for many different reasons and as the practices work away over time, those same people report that other reasons make

“If you want it to be, yoga can be a powerful process of transformation... but maybe you just want to be able to touch your toes again? It can do that too." them keep returning to the mat.

You may want to shed a few pounds after the festive season or you may need help to destress. At Santosha Studio you’ll a welcoming, openminded bunch of people all sharing the same struggle as they try to make positive changes in their lives. This community isn’t silent and serious all of the time - deep and long term Lucknam Park

friendships form, there’s lots of laughter, someone to help when you struggle and a hot cup of herbal tea to greet you on cold days. They stock all of the Yoga Goodies products too, so you can kit yourself out with mats and props for a home practice and plenty of fun and colourful yoga clothing so you feel comfortable to move and look great too! santoshastudio.co.uk | yogagoodies.co.uk

LUCKNAM PARK Colerne Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa is a magnificent listed Palladian mansion set within a private estate of 500 acres, just 6 miles from Bath. Within the ancient walled garden is the stunning world class spa featuring a 20 metre swimming pool, 9 treatment rooms, 5 thermal cabins, sauna, hydrotherapy pool and a salt water plunge pool.

After a hectic Christmas and New Year, or perhaps with a Valentine’s Day treat in mind, their Spa Day experiences are a wonderful treat. Available Monday to Friday the package includes a welcome coffee and pastry, 60 minute spa treatment, full use of all spa facilities, two course lunch with a glass of wine in their brasserie and complimentary use of robe and slippers. Spa Days cost from £150 per person.

01225 740570 | lucknampark.co.uk

TROWBRIDGE CHIROPODIST Trowbridge “For 15 years I have supplied a trusted and caring chiropody service in Trowbridge and throughout Wiltshire.”

Says Peter Wilkinson, aka the Trowbridge Chiropodist. “As a fully trained and qualified chiropodist I pride myself on being able to offer a full range of treatments to suit all my patients’ needs, whether it is for verrucae, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, foot care for the

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Peter Wilkinson M.Inst.Ch.P

IMPROVING YOUR FOOT HEALTH

We can help with..

• corns • calluses • hard skin • verrucae • ingrown toenails • fungal nail infections • footcare for the elderly, diabetics and those with poor circulation • advice and support Member of the Institute of Chiropodist and Podiatrists

Call today to make an appointment

Tel: 01225 571030

www.trowbridgechiropodist.co.uk Find us at: 13 St Georges Works, Silver St, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8AA

Find us on Facebook: Trowbridge - Chiropodist Follow us on Twitter: @TrowChiropodist

N E RE W L TA O ILE CA R L

Trowbridge Chiropodist

Yoga & Fitness Wear Unique colourful clothing for yoga, the gym or the dance studio Visit our online boutique, www.yogagoodies.co.uk Or studio boutique at Santosha Studio, First Floor, Amusement Centre Foghamshire, Chippenham SN15 1HB

10% OFF YOUR ORDER UNTIL 31 JANUARY 2016!

Enter code WILTS1 at the checkout.

| health & wellbeing elderly, diabetics and those with poor circulation or just advice and support.”

Peter is a member of the Institute of Chiropodist and Podiatrists and is registered with the Health Professions Council. To find out more about the Trowbridge Chiropodist

Woolley Grange

treatments available, or to arrange an appointment, give him a call.

01225 571030 | trowbridgechiropodist.co.uk

WOOLLEY GRANGE Bradford on Avon Located in the Walled Garden, Woolley Grange Spa is a relaxed, familyfriendly environment housed in a contemporary oak-timber building that blends into the Bath stonewall of the kitchen garden. Through the full-length glass windows, the view of the walled garden from the pool is breathtaking.

Zoned areas offer a relaxing, tranquil environment in which adults can unwind and under the spell of pampering treatments; from massages to manicures, body wraps, facials and more whilst they also encourage children to make the most of the swimming pool and spa facilities.

They even offer treatments suitable for younger skin. Spa membership, treatments, spa days and overnight retreats are available, as are gift vouchers – perfect for Valentine’s Day. Also, from 4 to 29 January, book any Elemis treatment Monday to Friday and you can enjoy 20% off lunch or afternoon tea. Delicious!

01225 865979 | woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

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WHATLEY MANOR Malmesbury Aquarias Spa at Whatley Manor offers a tempting and luxurious selection of spa experiences. Their New Year Spa Day Offer is available Monday to Thursday from 11 – 28 January and is perfect for restoring body and mind after the busy festive period.

The New Year Spa Day Offer comes with a restorative 60 minute ila Kundalini Back Treatment.This gentle nurturing back massage uses the best ‘beyond organic’ ila-spa ingredients with specific massage techniques alongside chakra-and-sound healing to leave you feeling totally Whatley Manor

rejuvenated. This soothing treatment has a profoundly restorative effect.

The day costs £120 (usually £150) and

“Aquarias Spa at Whatley Manor offers a tempting and luxurious selection of spa experiences.” includes full use of the spa facilities and a light lunch served in the spa lounge. Luxury robe, towels and slippers are provided for your comfort.

For further information and to book call Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa or visit the website.

01666 822888 | whatleymanor.com

reader offer |

Enjoy Halcyon Days

With no joining fee on Annual Memberships until 31 January, now is a great time to join Bishopstrow Hotel’s renowned Halcyon Spa.

T

he Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa, on the outskirts of Warminster, is part an exclusive collection of opulent hotels on the Longleat Estate.

Within it, their Halcyon Spa offers a renowned spa experience; perfect for treating yourself or a loved one.

As well as its wonderful day spa facilities, Bishopstrow also offers membership packages tailored to suit your needs. The team will provide professional advice to your desired goals are achieved, so between the spa and fitness suite they will have you looking and feeling great in no time!

Members are able to use state-of-theart equipment provided by renowned manufacturers Life Fitness. The gym offers two treadmills, two cross trainers, three bikes, a chest press, leg extension, weights bench, several gym balls and much more. Members also have access to the spa where they can relax after a workout, and there are a host of other perks to be had across the hotel too.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

• 10% off food, beverage, accommodation & room hire to a maximum of £250 • 20% off treatments (Mon-Thurs) • 6 Guest Passes worth £15 per pass (Peak Membership) • 3 Guest Passes worth £15 per pass (Off Peak Membership) • Complimentary personal training session worth £35 • Membership referral incentive • Use of tennis courts • Complimentary use of the river at Bishopstrow for fishing

Halcyon Spa has some great offers available now

PERSONAL TRAINING

To get great results fast it can help to employ a personal trainer; Bishopstrow has one on site, Edward Hammond, who specialises in fat loss, weight loss, strength and conditioning, toning, general fitness and nutrition. Ed is available on a one off basis or for a series of sessions.

The Spa offers personal training

JANUARY 2016 OFFERS

• Membership from £37.50 a month • NO JOINING FEE (Annual Memberships) • The first 20 Annual Members who join in January will receive a FREE gym bag and Mio skin fit products • If you join as a Peak Annual Member you receive a FREE personal training session

The gym has state-of-the-art equipment

FIT SKIN SPA DAY

This new year unwind with a great spa day. Make use of the fabulous facilities plus enjoy a delicious two course lunch and a 55 minute treatment, for just £89 per person! For more information call 01985 212512 or email info@thehalcyonspa.co.uk.

And a wonderful indoor pool

• www.bishopstrow.co.uk

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| bath rugby

HELLO DAVE...

Bath’s newest recruit DAVID DENTON talks about his debut, playing in the World Cup and the signing of Taulupe Faletau...

A

fter the ignominious departure of Sam Burgess back to Australia and the NRL, Bath Rugby fans, not to mention the squad, were in need of a little good news. Over the past few weeks they have had it, with the signings of Welsh internationals Luke Charteris and Taulupe Faletau announced for next season. Also making his way to the club, and joining with immediate effect, was Scottish international David Denton. The back rower had a fantastic World Cup and comes with the added bonus of actually being a union player!

His Bath career didn’t get off to the best of starts though when he was yellow

I just want to be able to play as much as I possibly can and hopefully have a good impact carded on his debut against Leicester Tigers just six minutes after being introduced. “I was so keen to make an impression for my new club I went too far.” says Denton, “In future if anyone asks, I made my debut at home against Northampton!”

Zimbabwean-born Denton arrived at The Rec having put in some impressive performances at the World Cup, only for Scotland to be beaten in the quarter finals by Australia in controversial

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circumstances. “You have to move on from things like that, even though losing in that manner was a difficult pill to swallow. It was an unbelievable

there are facilities like this anywhere in professional rugby. To be training on a country estate and have the front lawn as a training pitch is amazing. I feel very

UPCOMING FIXTURES To buy tickets call the Ticket Office on 0844 448 1865 or go to the website.

2 January

AP

Newcastle Falcons

A 15.00

10 January

ERCC

Toulon

A 16:15

TV

15–17 January

ERCC

Leinster

A TBC

TV

22–24 January

ERCC

Toulon

H TBC

TV

30 January

AP

Saracens

A 15:15

TV

5 February

AP

Gloucester

H TV

TV

World Cup. The crowds were amazing everywhere we played, although it was weird playing at Twickenham in front of 70,000 Scotland fans! Losing to Australia was particularly tough, but to push the second best team in the world as close as we did says a lot about where the Scotland team are and we can take a lot of positives from that.”

Playing in the Aviva Premiership and in the European Champions Cup are obviously big draws for the 25-year old. “Everyone I’ve spoken to that’s played in the Premiership says it’s the best league that they have played in, the intensity of the game and how much the crowds buy into it. I’m really looking forward to playing as much as I can.”

And what about the facilities at Farleigh House?

“I was awestruck when I first drove up to the place – I doubt

privileged to have facilities like this and I know all the players are very grateful too.”

Having played against the English and South Africans a few times, Denton is familiar with the attributes of many of his new teammates. “I’ve played against a lot of the guys a few times and it’s great now to be able to line up alongside them.

I’ve joined a really talented squad and I just want to be able to play as much as I possibly can and hopefully have a good impact.” After the departure of Carl Fearns, David Sisi on loan and Sam Burgess, the back row options did look a little thin, not so now with Denton on board and with the announcement of Faletau’s arrival next season. With Denton, Louw, Garvey, Houston, Mercer, Fao’siliva and Faletau as options, competition for places will be fierce. Denton isn’t worried though.

“Faletau coming is a signing I’m really excited about. We all want to win trophies and if we have ambitions to win the Premiership and in Europe we are going to need depth in each position. He will add a lot to the squad, and I think it’s a great signing.”

• www.bathrugby.com

| puzzles

Tea Break Teasers SAY CHEERS WORDSEARCH

What/who is missing from the grid?

GESONDHEID SALUT CHEERS GAYOLA MABUHI

SUDOKU

EASY

BIBA PROOST SKAL BULA KIPPIS

TSJOCH SLAINTE MARURUNG AHOA BROSCHT

WIN A £10 NEXT VOUCHER! Email your answers to these trivia questions to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk by 23.01.16 to be in with a chance of winning a £10 Next Voucher.

Good luck!

Q1: How was January known in Latin?

Q2: On what date in 2016 is Epiphany?

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS

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Q3: Arsenal and England footballer Jack Wilshire is how old on January 1st 2016?

Wordsearch missing word: MONTEPELLIER

Q4: Which composer died, at the age of 50, on 20th January 1830

Quiz answers: 1: December 1st 1973 2: Cymbeline 3: December 26th 4: Bob Gaudio and Judy Parker 5: Nicky Minaj

Q5: Which model is making her debut on the cover of British Vogue in January 2016?

Be sure to include your contact details so we can get in touch with you if you are our winner!

| last word

S

Just try to think of fluffy bunnies

o 2016 has arrived and with it thoughts of New Year’s resolutions. Traditionally this would be something you would do (or not do) that would make your life, or someone else’s, better. This year I have decided to make just one resolution; one that encompasses a few little things. I’m not going to let the small things in life bother me so much. There is enough big stuff going on in and around my own little bubble at the moment, let alone the world, and I should relax a bit and, hopefully, enjoy life a bit more.

What follows next is a short (and by no means exhaustive) list of the things that before the 1st January 2016 would have annoyed me. After this date however they will cease to be a problem. I will no longer grind my teeth, hold my head in my hands and generally be

bag I realised I was going to finish the dippable crisps fairly early on and be left with about a third of a bag of ‘bits’, leaving me to grab a handful of crumbs and scoop out the dip with my fingers. All very messy and very annoying. So much so that in a fit of pique I marched over to the bin and discarded the remnants. This, I thought after the event, is dreadful when you consider world hunger etc, but really, who in their right mind wants to eat tortilla chip crumbs as their means of sustenance?! That got me thinking about all the other supposedly inconsequential things in life that I shouldn’t get stressed about but do.

If someone hands you a wad of cash… granted not something that happens to me everyday but still…if the notes are not all the same way round, that’s okay. When you get a decent amount

When you go to the supermarket sometimes you can be looking at, say, the baked beans and there will be a light bulb sitting on the same shelf. No, it’s not some new feng shui method of shelf stacking, instead a customer has decided that they don’t need an item anymore and have just deposited it back on the nearest shelf. downhearted by them. I will ignore the frustration, think of fluffy bunnies - or something equally as lovely - and be uplifted and fluffy myself.

The event that got me thinking about this subject happened one Thursday evening. I was watching TV with a big bag of Mexican crispy snacks… you know the ones…and a nice dip.

As I got closer to the bottom of the

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of money from a cashpoint and they are higgledy piggledy, back to front and the wrong way round that, dear reader, is unacceptable. What do people at banks do all day? Surely the minimum standard should be that the notes are all the same way round. The person who puts the money in should at least check. It’s just common decency. I hate to think how untidy their house must be!!

When you go to the supermarket (with your money all facing the same way obviously) sometimes you can be looking at, say, the baked beans and there will be a light bulb or some washing up liquid sitting on the same shelf. No, it’s not some new feng shui method of shelf stacking, instead a customer has decided that they don’t need an item anymore and have just deposited it back on the nearest shelf.

They are too lazy to walk back to where they got it from and put it back.

Consequently there are random things on random shelves, literally, all over the shop. I’d wager that some of the bigger stores could employ somebody full time just to wander round putting things back where they came from. Next time you are in a supermarket keep an eye out for stuff on wrong shelves, you will be amazed how much there is.

And what about inappropriate pop up adverts? The fact that these exist at all is a source of minor annoyance but when you want to watch a news video online of something serious, say a natural disaster or similar and because you bought a Monsters Inc. DVD three years ago Mike Wazowski pops up all green and happy and one-eyed trying to sell you more merchandise. It somewhat kills the solemnity of the moment.

All these things are pretty small potatoes (sometimes found in the bin bag aisle lol) but, in varying degrees used to annoy me. Not in 2016 though... fluffy bunnies, fluffy bunnies, fluffy bunnies!!!

Phil Rockliffe

FG COLLIER_A5 Dummy Gridmaster 07/01/2015 15:02 Page 1