MAY 2016 // ISSUE 81
FREE
The
Farm
magazine
h s e Fr
WIN
A GARDEN TOUR & LUNCH FOR TWO AT WHATLEY MANOR
WITH G N I R P HIS S OP SPECIAL T L L E EAT W GE FARM SH A OUR 8-P
A Gardener’s Delight AVONFIELD GARDENS IN HILPERTON
DREAM SPACES BRADFORD ON AVON’S FORMOSA KITCHENS
+ LOCAL LISTINGS THERMAE BATH SPA WATERCRESS RECIPES & 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. Front Cover: Courtesy Neston Farm Shop
May 2016 // issue 81
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here is something that happens around this time every year; the region, like the rolling fields that surround us, seems to come alive. The garden is growing, the fields are filled with lambs and calves and there are stacks of events to look forward to, most of which we are covering in this edition of The West Wilts Magazine. To name but a few we have the Selwood Steam and Vintage Vehicle Rally, the Corsham Walking Festival, Devizes Food & Drink Festival, Lacock Abbey’s Weird World Trail, Bradford on Avon’s Secret Gardens, the Celebrating Arts in the Garden exhibition plus the 10th anniversary of the Hope Nature Centre to look forward to, and that’s just in May! We are also looking at what’s coming up, including Frome Festival, the Village Pump Festival and the Three Daggers Music Brew - it’s going to be a busy few months! Away from festivals be sure to read our guide to fabulous local farm shops, enter our competition to win a garden tour at the stunning Whatley Manor, read more about treatments at Thermae Bath Spa and, you know what, just read it cover to cover, it’s bursting with great stuff! Enjoy.
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Lisa Rockliffe, Editor Follow us on Twitter... @wiredpublishing Read online... www.wired-publishing.co.uk
in this issue... LOCAL LISTINGS What’s on in May
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LOCAL NEWS Round up of news & events 12 Upcoming celebrations & festivals 17 FOOD & DRINK Eat The Seasons Watercress Recipes Meet the Chef at The Lamb on the Strand Kalahari Kitchen Devizes Food & Drink Festival FEATURES Thermae Bath Spa Farm Fresh
28 29 32 36 37 14 21
HOMES & GARDENS Avonfield Gardens Formosa Kitchens The property market this spring
42 50 54
HEALTH, WELLBEING & LEISURE Rojene Live-in Care 62 Being active with Places For People 68 BATH RUGBY Stuart Hooper retires
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COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Win a Garden Tour at Whatley Manor 40 Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku 72 COMMENT The Last Word
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Pop in to see us in the Westway Shopping Centre in Frome and find good quality, locally made furniture and homewares displayed in room settings designed to inspire.
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
| events
local
listings MAY 2016
MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL
Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 www.melkshamassemblyhall.com For full listings go to the website. THE DANISH GIRL (Cert: 15) 13 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £6 Lili and Gerda’s marriage and work evolve as they navigate Lili’s groundbreaking journey as a transgender pioneer. WRESTLEFORCE – WRESTLING 30 May, 7pm
Tickets: Adult: £10, Child: £8. Family Ticket: £30 WrestleForce presents two hours of thrilling, non-stop exciting action unlike anything you’ve experienced before!
WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk For full listings go to the website.
DENNIS ROLLINS’VELOCITY TRIO / SAMUEL DUBOIS 14 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £18 A unique collaboration led by WMC Jazz Artist in Residence 2016 CLIMATE AID 2016 WITH PHILLIP HENRY & HANNAH MARTIN 15 May, 3.30pm
Tickets: £12 (Concs: £8) Featuring some of the best folk musicians in the country, Climate Aid 2016 aims to raise awareness about climate change THE ROYAL BALLET: FRANKENSTEIN LIVE FROM THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE 18 May, 7.15pm
Tickets: £15 A new narrative work to a specially commissioned score, this elemental retelling of Mary Shelley’s gothic classic focuses on the human dramas of love, fear, loneliness and longing. LUKE JACKSON WITH SUPPORT FROM ALL IN HARMONY 20 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £11 Luke Jackson is an outstanding, young singer/songwriter from Canterbury, Kent, with a bold, distinctive voice and a sweet, percussive guitar style MARTIN AND ELIZA CARTHY 22 May, 7.30pm Dennis Rollins’ Velocity Trio, Wiltshire Music Centre
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Son Yambu, Pound Arts Centre
Tickets: £18 English folk legends unite for an intimate duo performance.
POUND ARTS CENTRE Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 www.poundarts.org.uk For full listings go to the website. SON YAMBU
6 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs: £11) Son Yambu play authentic Cuban Son, the intoxicating fusion of Spanish and African rhythms that gave rise to salsa. VENTOUX 14 May, 8pm
Tickets: £11 (Concs: £10) The story of Lance Armstrong and Marco Pantani on the fearsome Mont Ventoux in the 2000 Tour de France. SPITZ & CO. GLORIATOR 20 May, 8pm
Tickets: £11 (Concs: £10) An awe-inspiring production of bravery, honour, and costumes made out of cardboard. Wonderfully inventive, physical, and very, very silly. JONNY & THE BAPTISTS: THE END IS NIGH 21 May, 7.30pm
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Friday 17 - Sunday 19 June 17 walks over 3 days in and around Corsham, a medieval town on the Cotswold fringe. Walks to suit all abilities & interests, some themed, with optional Saturday evening entertainment
www.corshamwalkingfestival.org.uk
| events Tickets: £12 (Concs: £11) The new show from the UK’s hottest musical comedians, The End is Nigh offers their most personal - and apocalyptic - venture to date.
THE GOD PARTICLE 26 May, 7.45pm
ELEMENTS OF CAPABILITY Until 22 May
Tickets: £10.50 (Concs: £8.50) A scientist and a vicar walk into a bar… joining forces to solve a perplexing mystery they stumble on faith, knowledge, love and the importance of keeping an open mind.
An intriguing outdoor sculpture show inspired by the work Capability Brown.
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. THE WITCHES 5, 6 & 7 May, 7.30pm (2.30pm matinee on the 7th) Joe Lycett, Merlin Theatre
MERLIN THEATRE
Bath Rd, Frome BA11 2HG Box Office: 01373 465949 www.merlintheatre.co.uk For full listings go to the website. JOE LYCETT 6 May, 7.45pm
Tickets: £16 (Concs: £13.50) The self-proclaimed ‘absolute lad’ is back with an all new stand-up show, following appearances on Live at the Apollo and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE-National Theatre Live 12 May, 7pm
Tickets: £16 (Concs: £10.50) Following its smash-hit original broadcast, the Young Vic’s ‘magnetic, electrifying, astonishingly bold’ production of A View from the Bridge returns due to audience demand THE BEST THING 13 May, 7.45pm
Tickets: £14.50 (Concs: £10.50) A swinging sixties story of unconditional love from the UK’s leading full mask theatre company.
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Tickets: £10 (Concs: £8.50) The Athenaeum Masqueraders Youth invite you to join them as they whisk you through the unforgettable world created by Roald Dahl where Witches roam among us. THE TAMING OF THE SHREW 18, 19, 20 & 21 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £10, charity performance on 18 £13 The Athenaeum Limelight Players present this Commedia dell’Arte version of Shakespeare’s scintillating romantic comedy.
LACOCK ABBEY
Normal admission applies unless otherwise stated ICELAND, AN UNEASY CALM Until 10 July, 10.30am – 5.30pm
‘Iceland, an Uneasy Calm’ is a series of photographs taken of Iceland over the last eight years by Tim Rudman widely acknowledged as one of the very finest landscape photographers working today. SPRING FLOWERS at LACOCK ABBEY Until 15 May, 10.30am – 5.30pm
Lacock’s wooded grounds are full of wonderful flowers over the spring months and ideal for a gentle stroll.
CHEESE & GRAIN
5 The Bridge, Frome BA11 1AR Box Office: 01373 455420 www.cheeseandgrain.com For full listings go to the website. FROME BLUES RHYTHM AND ROCK FESTIVAL 2016 8 May, 2pm – 10pm
Tickets: £26.50 Featuring Martin Turner, Corky Laing, Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, Red Butler, Albany Down and The Luke Doherty Band. POLICE DOG HOGAN 13 May, 8pm
Tickets: £14 This group of London media friends got together out of a joint love of American music and as the BBC’s Johnnie Walker says they create ‘a really good, fun time’ RYAN MCGARVEY 14 May, 8pm
Tickets: £15 Move over Bonamassa! There’s a new kid on the block and boy can he rock!!
WILTSHIRE FARMERS MARKETS BRADFORD ON AVON 3rd Thursday of the month in Westbury Gardens CORSHAM Every Tuesday, 9am – 1pm DEVIZES 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month, 9am – 1pm TROWBRIDGE 2nd & 4th Friday of each month, 9am – 1pm WARMINSTER 1st & 3rd Friday of each month, 9am – 1pm
CHEESE &GRAIN SUN 8 MAY 2PM FRI 13TH MAY 8PM SAT 14TH MAY 8PM SAT 21ST MAY 8PM 28TH & 29TH MAY SUN 29TH MAY 8PM FRI 3RD JUN 8PM SAT 4TH JUN 8PM SAT 10TH JUN 8PM SAT 24TH JUN 8PM THU 30TH JUN 8PM FRI 1ST JUL 7.30PM TUE 5TH JUL (TBC) WED 6TH JUL 8PM FRI 8TH JUL 8PM SAT 10TH JUL 8PM FRI 22ND JUL 8PM TH
BOX OFFICE: 01373
455420
MARKET YARD, FROME, SOMERSET BA11 1BE
www.cheeseandgrain.com
FROME BLUES RHYTHM & ROCK FESTIVAL £21.50 POLICE DOG HOGAN £14 RYAN MCGARVEY (FULL BAND) £15 FAIRPORT CONVENTION £23.50 BLUES GUITAR WORKSHOP WEEKEND ERIC BIBB £22.50 ABSOLUTE BOWIE £16 INGLORIOUS £16.50 ADV / £18.50 OTD CELEBRATE SOUTH AFRICAN COMEDY £12 ADV JOHN LEE’S BARCLAY JAMES HARVEST £21.50 ADV LOVE REVISITED £17.50 ADV THE UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN £23.50 SHAKESPEARE RATTLE AND ROLL £7 BILLY BRAGG £22.50 FROM THE JAM £21.50 REEF £23 ADV OAS-IS & BLURD £13
Fairport Convention The Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain
Billy Bragg
| events FAIRPORT CONVENTION 21 May, 8pm
THE DELTICS 21 May
Tickets: £23.50 Formed in 1967, Fairport Convention are the most important group in the English folk rock movement.
BROTHER FROM ANOTHER 22 May
ERIC BIBB 29 May, 8pm
STRANGE FOLK 27 May
Allotment Association. BBQ and plant tables to enjoy. Access via Waterworks and Gladstone Roads. SARAH MCQUAID The George Inn, Longbridge Deverill, BA12 7DG 7 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 A captivating performer of an original Tickets: £22.50 PUBLIC ORDER ACT fusion of jazz and folk, Sarah McQuaid Eric Bibb is one of the leading bluesmen 28 May will seduce you with cheeky banter of his generation - his career has and stories from the road, as well spanned five decades. THE MIKE HODDINOTT BLUES ALL-STARS as with stunning musicianship. For 29 May further information call 01985 840396.
VILLAGE PUMP FRIDAY FOLK
Lamb Inn, Mortimer Street, Trowbridge Doors open: 7.30pm OPEN MIC NIGHT 20 May, 8pm
FREE
THE THREE HORSESHOES Frome Rd, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LA Tel: 01225 865876 All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm THE CRY BABIES 13 May 50 SHADES OF PUNK 14 May URBAN COHORTS 15 May
Photo by Phil Nicholls (www.philnicholls.co.uk)
THE HOT 27’S 20 May
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BRADFORD-ON-AVON FOLK CLUB at THE SWAN www.boafolkclub.org.uk Email: phil@deverall.on4free.co.uk Call Phil Deverall on 01380 870734 SINGAROUND 3, 17 & 31 May
FREE, 8pm IRON & OAK 10 May
FREE, 8pm Folk stroke Americana trio. REG MEUROSS & JESS VINCENT 24 May
FREE, 8pm Two talented singer/ songwriters. Floor spots. Free entry. 8pm.
OTHERS BRADFORD ON AVON BOWLS CLUB OPEN DAYS Culver Close, BA15 1LF 7 & 22 May, 12noon – 4pm
Try your hand at bowls for free. No obligation, just come along and have fun. Please wear flat shoes. Coffee and homemade cakes provided. For more info call Lesley on 01225 863066. PLANT SALE & NOSH 7 May, 11am - 1pm FREE
Sarah McQuaid, The George Inn
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Gloucester Road Allotments, Trowbridge Enjoy a fun day on the allotment courtesy of Gloucester Road
TROWBRIDGE PHILHARMONIC CHORAL SOCIETY SPRING CONCERT Holy Trinity Church, Trowbridge BA14 9AA 14 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 Conducted by Ruth McKibbin, the choir will sing Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle and sacred motet O Salutaris Hostia. They will be joined by soloists and accompanied by harmonium and piano. For further information and tickets call 01225 761364 or Trowbridge TIC on 01225 765072 FAMILY FUN DAY IN AID OF ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT Trowbridge Park 21 May, 10am – 4pm
FREE More than 40 stalls, live music and entertainment, traditional sideshows, quad bikes and trampolines and a tombola. For further information visit: www.alzheimerswiltshire.org.uk WESTWOOD SCARECROW TRAIL Find the scarecrows scattered around Westwood village, near Bradford on Avon 28 May – 5 June
Trail map: £3 The theme for this year is “Childrens Books Old & New”. If you can correctly name all the scarecrows, you’re in with a chance of winning a prize. Organised by and in aid of Westwood Nursery & Friends of Westwood School. For further information visit westwoodnursery.org/scarecrow-trail
| local news
roundup
All the latest news and events from West Wiltshire and beyond!
FROME FESTIVAL: COMING THIS JULY!
This year’s festival will see Frome come to alive with nearly 200 events. Headlining acts include singer/ songwriter and activist Billy Bragg; the Ukulele Orchestra of GB; Bruce Foxton’s From the Jam, rock band Reef, and James Browns’ legendary saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis. Arthur Lee’s Californian rock band ‘Love’ reunite with ‘Love revisited’ for a special pre-festival show. Billy Bragg is one of the festival’s headline performers
Frome FM is working with the Festival again this year on the Frome FM Festival lounge at the Granary. Free events start with an opening party - a complimentary double bill of electro legends Alan Clayson and Sweet Machine. Later in the week are the Lump Chronicles, Worry Dolls and Bonne Nouvelle, Three is the Magic Number, the Three Corners and Molly Ross Gum Girl. Ticketed events include comedienne Viv Groskop (one of Jo Brand’s favourites) and Arch Garrison of North Sea Orchestra fame.
with many open throughout the week. This year the Frome Treasure Hunt is back, and the theme is ‘Doorways of Frome’ with a £200 Annette Gabbedey jewellery prize to be won. Literary events start with Michael Wood’s talk ‘In Search of Shakespeare’ supporting historic St John’s restoration appeal, and culminate with a script in hand performance of the controversial life of Dylan Thomas ‘From Laugharne to Frome’ at Rook lane Chapel.
For children and families events include a Food Feast, a fabulous street market of arts, crafts & edible treats and superb live music; and finish with the Children’s Festival There are many daytime events, on the last weekend. The pop-up including some free and low cost Festival Roti Shack at the Silk Mill workshops and a Photo Walk around will provide family friendly and town. The Hidden Gardens take deliciously authentic West Indian place from Friday 8-Sunday 10 with food, drop in for Caribbean flavours lots of new gardens to explore this and calypso cocktails. year; and the Frome Artists Open • fromefestival.co.uk Studios are open both weekends
Image credit: Andy Whale
The popular Magical Folk Garden returns to the Archangel and on the last weekend the famous Sensonic dance night returns to the Silk Mill.
RUN THE BUBBLE RUSH FOR DOROTHY HOUSE THIS JULY!
Bubble Rush 2016 is on Sunday 31July at Castle Combe Circuit near
Chippenham. Entrants will embark on a 5km run, walk, skip or dance along a route filled with huge bubbly clouds of rainbow-coloured foam.
The Bubble Village will be partycentral with jazzy pre-event warm up routine, live entertainment, children’s activities and lots yummy food! There are no age restrictions and the route is child friendly. The circuit is not a race and is suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and prams.
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There will be three waves, which take place at 3pm, 4pm and 5pm. Entry is free for children aged 3 and under, children (aged 4-16) cost £7.50 and adults (aged 17+) cost £25. There is no minimum sponsorship amount but participants are encouraged to raise as much as they can for Dorothy House Hospice Care to help fund vital patient care and to celebrate the charity’s 40th birthday. • dorothyhouse.org.uk/events
CORSHAM WALKING FESTIVAL
Corsham Walking Festival (17 – 19 June) has gone from strength to strength - organisers are now planning for their third festival. There are 17 walks on offer this year with something for all abilities. For more information on the routes just visit the website, where you can also reserve your spot, (walks sell out so book ahead) and download the festival brochure. Many walks start from the new Springfield Campus in Corsham, others from local villages, all are planned to offer insights into the landscape and history of our beautiful countryside. Led by walk leaders, walkers will be accompanied by specialists who offer insights on quarries, canals, Brunel’s railways, geology, wildflowers and more en route; so you can learn as you walk!
There’s a ‘Mindfulness’ walk, a free children’s treasure trail, an accessible walk round Corsham’s jewel of a town centre and much more. On Saturday 18 June there will also be a buffet and quiz night so you can get together with your fellow walkers and have some fun. Everyone is warmly invited. • corshamwalkingfestival.org.uk
Corsham Walking Festival is in its third year
WEIRD WORLD FAMILY TRAIL This half term you can head over to Lacock Abbey and get involved in the Weird World Family Trail. Running from 28 May – 5 June, 10.30am – 5.30pm, the event should prove popular with the whole family. Science can do strange things to everyday objects. Find out more on this fascinating hands-on, self-led family trail around the grounds of Lacock Abbey, once home to scientist and inventor, William Henry Fox
Get on the Weird World Family Trail this half term at Lacock Abbey
Talbot. From making lightsaber sounds with a coil of wire, to seeing a magical hole in your hand – there’s lots of amazing things to discover. Lacock Abbey is near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. Normal admission applies. National Trust members and under 5s go free. Open daily, 10.30am - 5.30pm. Visit the website or call 01249 730459 for more information. • nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock
local news |
CELEBRATING ART IN THE GARDEN West Lavington Manor, a stunning garden on the edge of the Salisbury Plain, is the setting for a major exhibition (in association with Pound Arts Rural Arts programme) that features work in bronze, ceramic, glass, steel, stone and resin by 29 contemporary sculptors. Eight of the artists are drawn from across Wiltshire. The remainder come from much further afield and for many this is their first showing at an exhibition in the county. The Manor’s long established garden is absolutely stunning and provides a beautiful settings for placing artists’ work. The exhibition runs from Thursday 26 May to Sunday 12 June, 11am – 6pm. Open Bank holiday Monday 30 May. Closed Tuesday 31 and Monday/Tuesday 6/7 June. Entrance is £7 for adults, seniors £5, under 16s free. • friendsofthegarden.org.uk
BRADFORD ON AVON SECRET GARDENS Enjoy a great day out for all ages exploring picturesque Bradford on Avon and its hidden gardens on Saturday 29 May and Sunday 26 June. A number of beautiful gardens will be open, ranging from bijoux courtyards of weavers’ cottages to extensive grounds of merchant’s houses. Some have featured in national magazines. As well as the gardens, visitors can enjoy delicious homemade teas. plant and craft stalls. Come and spend a great day in Bradford on Avon - walk, shop, have lunch and unlock the key to our Secret Gardens Festival. Entry is £6 per day for adults, with children under 14 free. You can get more information and tickets from the Tourist Information Centre. • secretgardensboa.wix.com/bona THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
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| local news
Time to ‘Take the Waters’
Treat yourself to a session at Thermae Bath Spa and choose from a range of over 40 treatments and packages designed to relax the body and soothe the mind.
E
ver since the Romans built their magnificent bathing complex in the heart of the city, people have made a pilgrimage to Bath to ‘take the waters’. Today’s visitors can relax in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters just as the Celts and Romans did
A spa session at Thermae Bath Spa offers the chance to bathe in the natural thermal waters of the indoor Minerva Bath
natural thermal waters of the indoor Minerva Bath with its whirlpool and neck massage, revive the senses in the suite of aroma steam rooms and relax in the open-air rooftop pool, which enjoys spectacular views across the city and surrounding hills.
intimate open-air bath with its own changing facilities where visitors can bathe in the natural thermal waters which emerge from a speciallycommissioned poolside fountain.
As a little treat, you can choose from a range of 40 spa treatments and packages designed to relax the body and soothe the mind. The packages (which are available Monday – Friday) offer good value, a choice of spa treatments and often a tasty meal in the Springs restaurant.
over 2,000 years ago and enjoy the facilities of Thermae Bath Spa, which combines the best of the historic spa with the contemporary architecture of the New Royal Bath.
The popular Twilight Package provides an opportunity to experience the gradual change in light and atmosphere and includes a 3-hour spa session and a light meal and a drink in the Springs restaurant.
A spa session at Thermae Bath Spa offers the chance to bathe in the
Across from the main spa complex, the stand alone Cross Bath is an Relax in the open air rooftop pool
Couples treatments are very popular
The Cross Bath can be enjoyed by individuals or exclusively for small parties of up to 12 people (subject to availability). To complete the celebration, a variety of light bites, soft drinks, wine and Prosecco can be arranged. There are no membership or joining fees at Thermae Bath Spa, however treatments and packages should be booked in advance by calling the Reservations team on 01225 33 1234. For further information, including prices and opening times, visit the website. • thermaebathspa.com
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Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary Saving stray & unwanted dogs since 1958
Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary is a small independent animal rescue organisation. We are a non-destruction sanctuary for abandoned and unwanted dogs. Our dogs are all vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, neutered and chipped, and looking for loving new homes
Open Daily 10am – 12.30pm & 2pm – 4.30pm Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary, Priory Rd, Ascot, Berks SL5 8RJ
01344 882689 | pineridgedogs@yahoo.co.uk Registered Charity Number 256728
SELWOOD STEAM & VINTAGE VEHICLE RALLY 28th, 29th & 30th May Southwick, Nr Trowbridge Gates Open 10am
• Steam Engines • Tractors • Vintage Cars & Motorcycles • Working Demonstrations • Pets’ Corner • Ring Events • Live Entertainment • Children’s Entertainment • Trailer Rides & Much More For All The Family Admission Prices:
Proud to be supporting
Adults £6, Seniors £4, Children (Over 5) £2
www.selwoodvintage.co.uk
local news |
Hope Nature Centre celebrates 10 years!
T
he Hope Nature Centre is situated in the Southwick Country Park, Trowbridge. They provide work placements for adults with learning disabilities who work in the tearoom and nature park. In May the centre celebrates its 10th anniversary. Started by two parents of adults with learning disabilities, the charity occupies a 15 acre plot with a variety of animals including emus, alpacas and donkeys and a tearoom that provides freshly cooked meals as well as catering for birthday parties, wakes and business breakfasts. Last year they were awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor and in 2011 were awarded a Queen’s Award for voluntary service. As well as the animal park, they also have a range of play equipment for children and have recently installed
an inclusive playground area with a wheelchair accessible roundabout. We also have a storyteller’s chair and run story sessions during the summer. The addition of a Fairy Wood all makes the entrance fee of £2.50/adult, £1.50/ child or £7 for a family of 4 fantastic value for money.
discover your local tourist attraction. Check out the website, Facebook or follow the centre on Twitter @ hopenaturecent • hopenaturecentre.org.uk Hope Nature Centre is having a week of celebrations to mark its 10th anniversary
DIARY OF EVENTS Sunday 22 May: Annual Fête Monday 23 May: Big Birthday giveaway: visitors to the animal park have an opportunity to win prizes Friday 27 May: free cake for all visitors purchasing a hot drink. Saturday 28 May: Family Fun Day with FREE activities all day [usual admission fee applies] storytelling, a beekeeping talk and a falconry show. If you haven’t visited before then this is the week to come along and
Selwood Steam & Vintage Vehicle Rally
T
he Spring Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May will see Southwick nr Trowbridge alive with the sights and sounds of yesteryear as Selwood Steam and Vintage Vehicle Preservation Society hold their annual steam and vintage rally.
notable first for the show this year is the Burrell Showman’s engine “The Masterpiece”which was built in 1898 and is the oldest original double crank compound showman’s
engine in existence – not to be missed. In all it’s a fun great day out for all the family. • selwoodvintage.co.uk
The event is open from Saturday 28 to Monday 31 May from 10am to 5pm each day and aims to display an extensive range of nostalgic exhibits, most of which can be seen working. Entry prices are just £6 for Adults, Seniors £4 and Children aged 5 to 16 £2. Attractions include, military vehicles, steam engines, both large and small, vintage cars, tractors, commercial vehicles and day and evening live entertainment in the beer tent. A
Selwood Rally offers lots of activities to keep the whole family entertained
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| local news
Proclaimers to headline Village Pump
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ast year’s Village Pump Folk Festival was hailed by independent reviewers as virtually flawless from start to finish” and “one of the friendliest festivals we’ve had the pleasure to review”. What makes “The Pump” so good? It’s a small-scale event with large ambitions,
never compromising on quality with top quality music, sound and lighting. The site is compact, flat and welldrained. Unlike many festivals, camping is included in the ticket price and all performance areas are under cover. New this year is a covered eating area. There’s a full programme of ceilidhs, Show of Hands playing at last year’s festival
dance sides, sessions and workshops, food and craft stalls but what about the music? “Our acts come from all over the UK and beyond, “ says Clive Woodland, Pump Team member. “The Proclaimers appeal to a wide audience. Neville Staple (ex Specials) will bring a touch of ska and reggae and we’re welcoming BBC presenters Mark Radcliffe and his band Galleon Blast and Andy Kershaw with his World Music Disco. “Check out the names on our posters and you’ll see many of them are nominees or winners of BBC Radio 2’s Folk Awards. We’ve also got the best new acts, local talent so there’s something for everyone. Try it. We think you’ll like it! “ • villagepumpfolkfestival.co.uk
Three Daggers ‘Music Brew’
F
ollowing the success of last year’s summer music festival, the Three Daggers is excited to announce that is has planned the second annual ‘Music Brew’ weekend on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd July; great live music from 15 bands, fantastic food from the forthcoming outdoor BBQ/pizza area, as well as their very own vintage Citroen beer bus which will be serving Three Daggers Brewery ales and a selection of drinks. Both days start from midday with the bands playing in a marquee in the garden area between the pub and the farm shop/brewery. Relax on a hay bale and enjoy the music and a great, fun atmosphere for the whole family. It’s a free event, no tickets required and there will be some outdoor summer games to keep everyone entertained!
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They have some amazing musicians lined up over the weekend, some of whom have played with some big names – here are a few examples to get you excited! Filthy Six (headline act on Saturday): Amy Winehouse, Beck, Mark Ronson, Jack White, Dionne Warwick, Basement Jaxx, Spiritualized, Madness, and the James Taylor Quartet Kris Dollimore: The Godfathers, The Damned, Dee Dee Ramone, Johnny Thunders, Adam Ant and Del Amitri Phil Odgers: Stiff Little Fingers, David Bowie, Eliza Carthy For more details visit the Events page on the Three Daggers’ website • threedaggers.co.uk
The Three Daggers is hosting another Music Brew in early July
food & drink | Neston Farm Shop
m r Fa
h s e r F pick up op and h s m r a f l rstep. our doo our loca y y n o t o d n a ring; he nts grow r this sp sonal ingredie e t t e b t Ea sea l, fresh, beautifu
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| food & drink
ALLINGTON FARM SHOP Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ Specialising in quality home and locally produced food, Allington Farm Shop offers a fantastic range of fresh salads, vegetables and fruit, an in house butchery offering a wide range of home and locally reared meat, a delicatessen counter with an array of local, artisan and some continental cheeses, charcuterie, handmade scotch eggs, locally smoked fish and locally made pies. Plus there is a huge range of essential and speciality grocery items sourced from the local area and further afield. Whether you are looking for locally produced ingredients to produce your own creations or something delicious, quick and ready for the oven, you are sure to find it at Allington. Ask the butcher about the fantastic homemade sausages and burgers, perfect for bank holiday barbecues. • allingtonfarmshop.co.uk
EDINGTON FARM SHOP 47 Westbury Road, Edington BA13 4PG Edington Farm Shop, located in the picturesque village of Edington, has now been open for three years and is proving very popular with residents and visitors alike. The oak-framed farm shop has a wide range of local gifts, delights from the deli and freshly-baked bread to offer you along with home grown vegetables and flowers from their own Priory Farm. Coffee and cake is always a tempting treat, a great way to relax with a friend whilst watching their brewers perfecting their next ale in the onsite micro-brewery. Sample the fantastic ales in the farm shop or enjoy a pint in The Three Daggers pub, just next door!
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Edington Farm Shop
Edington Farm Shop is open 7 days a week, 8am to 6pm. Visit them online to find out more and for forthcoming events and special offers.
mouth-watering cuts for the grill and head chef Gary will show you how to transform your ingredients into some irresistible alfresco dishes.
• threedaggers.co.uk
• hartley-farm.co.uk
HARTLEY FARM SHOP
NESTON FARM SHOP
Winsley, Bradford on Avon BA15 2JB Spring is certainly in full bloom at Hartley Farm and they have enjoyed some incredible days out in the sunshine. Many of you will have visited the gorgeous spring lambs and calves which are a delight to customers young and old. As it’s such a great time of year to see the farm in action their Farm Open Day will be back on Sunday 1st May from 10—4pm. Barbecue enthusiasts will also want to get involved in the Butchery & Barbecue Demo on 19 May. Costing £25 per person (to include an arrival drink, tasters and your very own cut of pork to take home with you), the demonstration will show you how to create some
Bath Road, Atworth SN12 8HP Work is currently underway expanding Neston’s shop floor to house even more of the best food and drink the west country has to offer. As well as their own awardwinning meat, Neston also sources locally grown fruit and vegetables, free range eggs and freshly baked breads direct from many local farmers and producers to make sure the supply chain is short and fully traceable.
Hartley Farm Shop
Head chef Steve Mercer has just launched a delicious new spring menu. There is an expanded breakfast menu and more wonderful veggie dishes to try too! Fans of Middle Eastern flavours can also sign up for a Lebanese Cookery Demo with Wafaa Powell on 13 May at 7pm. Just in time for barbecue season, Wafaa will be demonstrating a selection of fresh and fragrant Lebanese salads for you to recreate throughout the summer. The cost of the evening is just £20pp, book your spot now! • nestonfarmshop.co.uk
THE
Farmhouse INN
Frome Rd, Southwick Nr Trowbridge BA14 9QD
Community Pub of the Year 2015 The Farmhouse Inn is a beautiful 17th century pub offering a wide variety of good home-cooked food, as well as superb real ales and fine wines. Take our Google Map tour today!
(incl drinks) when ordering food (Excluding bank holidays. Offer valid until 31.07.16)
Tel
01225 764366
email: the.farmhouse@btconnect.com www.farmhousesouthwick.co.uk
Award Winning, Family Run, Farm Shop
Established for over 30 years
Selling Quality Local Produce Open Daily 9am – 6pm 10am – 5pm on Sundays
EDINGTON FARM SHOP
HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME HOMEMADE SAUSAGES & BURGERS
LOCAL CHEESES & HOME COOKED MEATS LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES & FRUIT HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATES & FUDGE PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS LOCAL ALES, CIDERS & FINE WINES
HOMEGROWN VEGETABLES SOURCED FROM OUR VERY OWN PRIORY FARM
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8AM - 6PM HELLO@EDINGTONFARMSHOP.COM PUB | BREWERY | FARM SHOP | INN
www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk TEL: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ
WESTBURY RD, EDINGTON BA13 4PG
01380 830 940
WWW.THREEDAGGERS.CO.UK
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10% off Monday to Thursday
| food & drink Paxcroft Farm eggs
PAXCROFT FARM SHOP Hilperton, Trowbridge BA14 6JB If you like buying free range eggs at your local farm or village shop, chances are that they have come from Paxcroft Farm; their laying stock produces some 15 million eggs each year. Fresh, quality eggs of the very highest standard are what the Oatley family pride themselves on, with Paxcroft Farm eggs being distributed throughout Wiltshire and the South West. You can also find their eggs in their own farm shop far cheaper than you can buy at the supermarket. The shop also houses local honey, chutneys, jams and other goodies; it’s well worth popping in. As well as their delicious eggs, the farm has expanded over recent years to incorporate offices and workshops, catering for a number of small businesses. Offices are available from as little as £60 per week plus business rates. To find out more email tom@ paxcroft.co.uk.
their organic meat boxes. Try one of the mixed boxes, or simply choose your own from the range of organic meat. They offer pork and apple sausages, beef ribs, chicken breasts and much much more, all of which you can marinade using Riverford’s easy and inspiring online recipes. To accompany your organic meat selection, why not order a salad box to go with it and really impress your guests? Visit the website for more information. • riverford.co.uk
ROWDEY COW CAFE Lower Farm, Devizes Rd, Rowde SN10 2LX Rowdey Cow’s glass fronted café offers spectacular views of Roundway Hill and the surrounding
• paxcroft.co.uk
RIVERFORD Home Delivery Service With summer fast approaching are you thinking of dusting off the BBQ and taking advantage of the bank holidays to host a get together? Let Riverford take the strain; order one of
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Rowdey Cow cafe and ice cream parlour
farmland and serves scrumptious cooked breakfasts, lunch and teas as well as home baked cakes and barista coffees. Kids will love the children’s play area, and be sure to make time to visit the farm’s animals, including miniature Shetland ponies, goats, sheep and cows. Everyone who visits Rowdey Cow has to try their gobsmackingly delicious fresh ice cream, made on the farm from their own cows’ milk! They have up to 16 different flavours to choose from at any one time and the options change daily, so you can visit every day and not get bored! Find them in Rowde on the A342 Chippenham to Devizes road, they are open daily from 10am to 4pm. • rowdeycow.co.uk
WHITEHALL FARM SHOP Within Whitehall Garden Centre, Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LZ Regular visitors to Whitehall Garden Centre will no doubt already be aware of its popular farm shop. The shop has a strong ethos for supporting local suppliers and West Country products, ensuring you can fill your larder with a great range of homemade pickles and chutneys, fresh fruit, vegetables, freshly baked bread, organic Texel lamb (reared on their own farm), locally produced pork and Lackham beef. Feeling thirsty? They have local beers, perrys and ciders as well as
Paxcroft Farm Shop Home of Wiltshire’s Finest Eggs
Free Range Eggs straight from the farm at half the price you pay at the supermarket
Wholesale prices available for customers buying more than 15 dozen eggs a week Open Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturday 8am to 1pm Paxcroft Farm, Hilperton, Trowbridge BA14 6JB • www.paxcroft.co.uk • 01225 753060
| food & drink
Whitehall Farm Shop
luxury items and hampers that can be made to order – a good Father’s Day gift perhaps? Over the next few weeks there are some great events at Whitehall. The Outdoor Living Weekend (30 April & 1 May) will help you get your garden ready for summer with fantastic offers and giveaways. Gardening enthusiasts will love the Summer Bedding, Tubs and Baskets talk on Wednesday 4 May (2-3pm) and there is the annual Strawberry Weekend (with free strawberry plants) taking place on 14 & 15 May. For the full line of events and their details take a look at the website.
their windowsills. Soon their homes were overrun with plants bearing fruit in abundance so they put up a polytunnel to house this obsession and the business grew from there. Their passion for horticulture is matched only by their passion for food, which meant there was only one direction to go… chilli sauce! From a few spicy gifts for friends, the team graduated to small batches for the local farmer’s market, and saw that people couldn’t get enough of their sauces. Offering a fresh take on spice,
they had hit upon a winning recipe of quality and variety. With each passing year, their passion for these fiery little peppers has only intensified and they are delighted that what started life as a hobby has flourished into a thriving business. Look out for Wiltshire Chilli Farm products at your local Wiltshire Farmers’ Markets, Frome Independent Market, food festivals and shows, including the Bath & West, or you can always order online with 48hr delivery. • fearlessflavour.com
• whitehallgardencentre.co.uk
WILTSHIRE CHILLI FARM Farmers’ Markets & Online Shop After six years of chilli farming the owners of Wiltshire Chilli Farm have chillies running through their veins. Every colour, strength, style – you name it, they’ve tried it. What began as simple appreciation of their bold, bright flavours, developed into an avid pastime that saw them cramming hundreds of varieties on to
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Wiltshire Chilli Farm
| 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...
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t last May is here again. It is my favourite month of the year, and not just because I have my birthday! The main reason I like May is the weather, it really starts to warm up - even though this winter has by no means been harsh I do get fed up with grey skies and wearing coats - it is lovely to feel a bit of warmth on your face when you are outside isn’t it?
English asparagus! Hopefully you have planted your main crop potatoes as I suggested last month. Even if you do not have a garden and just a few deep pots you can still plant a few potatoes! This month you can sow beetroot, carrots, courgettes, squash and pumpkins. You can also pop in your brassicas for harvesting in the winter.
elderflowers should make an appearance any time now too. As usual, any questions you might like me to answer for you just email me on neil@lovejoyswholesale.com.
Another reason to enjoy May is the abundance of local produce available, the beautiful baby carrots from Brougham, spring green, spring onions and outdoor rhubarb. Also, on the salad front we have all the different kinds of lettuce and John Hurd’s wonderful tasty, peppery watercress, it’s all grown in Wiltshire too! The most popular vegetable this month must be
Any foragers out there you should still have time to take advantage of the wild garlic and nettles, and for wine makers there are plenty of dandelions around;
Find out more at www.lovejoyswholesale.com
THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
Back in June! Neil @lovejoysuk
recipes |
Wonderful
Watercress It’s tasty, it’s healthy and it’s grown right here in Wiltshire. Enjoy these wonderful dishes that make the most of seasonal watercress – recipe courtesy of Waitrose.
Watercress & Buttermilk Vichyssoise with Crab Toast Ingredients 35g butter 1 large onion, diced 1 medium potato, peeled and diced 500ml vegetable stock 200g watercress 100ml buttermilk 60g white crab Freshly grated nutmeg, pinch Grated zest and juice 1 lemon 2 slices Waitrose White Sourdough Bread, halved to make 4 pieces
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Method To make the soup, melt 25g butter in
a medium saucepan and gently cook the onion for 2-3 minutes until softened but not browned. Add the potato and stir to coat with the buttery onion. Pour in the stock, bring to the boil then simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the potato is tender. Add the watercress (reserving 1-2 tbsp to garnish) and simmer for a further minute. Remove from the heat and leave the soup to cool slightly then blend or whizz in a hand-blender to make a smooth purée. Stir in the
Serves 4
buttermilk (reserving 1-2 tbsp to garnish the soup) then cool and chill until ready to serve. Season the crabmeat with the nutmeg and lemon zest plus lemon juice to taste. Lightly toast the 4 pieces of sourdough, spread with the remaining butter and top with the seasoned crab. Pour the chilled soup into four bowls, add a swirl of buttermilk and the reserved watercress leaves. Serve with the crab toast. THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
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| recipes
Watercress & Cream Cheesestuffed Chicken Serves 4 Ingredients 100g pack Waitrose Watercress 150g Paysan Breton Luxury Cream Cheese 2 tbsp Lingham’s Chilli Sauce Pack of 4 skin-on essential Waitrose British Chicken Boneless Breasts 2 tbsp olive oil Method Preheat the oven to 190ºC. Finely chop the watercress and beat into the cream cheese with the chilli sauce and seasoning. Using a small sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of the chicken breasts, carefully push in the cream cheese mixture and securely close with a cocktail stick.
Serves 4
Ingredients 320g ready-rolled all-butter shortcrust pastry 1 leek, finely sliced 2 medium free range gggs, lightly beaten 150ml whole milk 30g grated Parmigiano Reggiano 30g watercress leaves (stalks discarded), finely chopped 170g pack Waitrose Lemon & Herb Poached Scottish Salmon Fillets, skin removed Green salad, to serve Method Put a baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 200ºC. Line a 20cm loose-bottomed tart tin with
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pastry, prick the bottom with a fork, line with baking paper and baking beans and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the paper and beans and bake for 5 minutes more or until golden. Turn down the oven to 180ºC. Meanwhile, steam the sliced leeks for 5 minutes or until tender, then set aside. Mix the eggs with the milk and most of the Parmigiano Reggiano. Stir in the watercress and season well with black pepper.
Place the chicken breasts in a small roasting tin and drizzle the skin with the olive oil. Season and cook in the oven for 25–30 minutes until golden and the juices of the chicken run clear when pierced with a knife. There should be no pink meat. Transfer to warmed plates, remove the cocktail stick and serve with new potatoes and a sliced tomato and red onion salad or chantenay carrots.
Spread the steamed leeks over the base of the tart, then pour over the egg mixture, flake the salmon over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake on the preheated sheet for 25–30 minutes until the filling is just set and the pastry is golden. Serve warm or chilled, in wedges, with green salad.
�
Simple Salmon & Watercress Tart
Recently renovated, The George is the perfect place to visit for local ales, top quality wines and fantastic food created by our award-winning chef Alex Venables. • Cosy bar • Local produce & fresh fish • Large Garden • Dog friendly • Open daily from 9.30 for coffee & breakfast
NOW PEN ALSO O S Y MONDA
SET LUNCH 2 Courses £12.95 Monday to Saturday SUNDAY LUNCH Booking Essential! from £13.50 DELICIOUS AFTERNOON TEAS Available Friday to Sunday - Booking Essential! Book your table today on 01225 865650
67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ | thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk
| food & drink
Meet the Chef
This month we spoke with OWAIN PARRY, head chef from the award-winning Lamb on the Strand pub and restaurant in Semington. What was your first job in food? My first job was in a café, straight out of school; I enjoyed it so much I went to catering college. After college I secured a job as a commis chef in a large hotel and then moved around hotels and pubs where I moved up to head chef. I moved to Wiltshire in 2002. What was the first dish you mastered? A simple steak & ale pie. It’s a real classic and when done well, it’s delicious. Do you have any favourite local suppliers? I would have to say Lovejoys Wholesale. I have used them for many years; the quality of their local vegetables from Bromham is outstanding.
and micro herbs. It showcases fantastic local produce at its best.
What’s your favourite part of the job? I really enjoy presenting buffets What is your favourite dish on and functions. It’s really satisfying the menu? to be part of a customer’s special A recent addition to our menu is the day like a wedding or anniversary, Bromham beetroot ravioli (pictured). and we really push the boat out It comes with a Stilton crème, to make sure everything looks and roasted garlic oil, candied walnuts tastes fantastic.
When you get a day off, which local pubs and restaurants do you like visiting? I like to try as many different pubs and restaurants as I can. One of my favourites is Charter House restaurant in Salisbury. When you cook for friends, what’s on the menu? It depends who I am cooking for. Usually simple is best, that way I can spend more time with my guests and less time in front of the stove. What’s your favourite kitchen gadget? It has to be my knife. What is your guilty pleasure? At the end of the day I do appreciate a good whisky or two. To make a reservation at The Lamb on the Strand call 01380 870263. • thelambonthestrand.co.uk
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Quality food freshly prepared for you
The perfect setting for a relaxing lunch or evening meal, The Lamb on the Strand has beautiful gardens overlooking the rolling fields of West Wiltshire. Set on the A361 between Devices & Trowbridge you are in for a real treat with fantastic food, fine wines, local ales, cocktails & our gourmet ‘Gin & Tonic’ menu. Our 2 detached self-catering cottages are the perfect place when friends or family come to visit. Check Availability & Book on our Website!
Our New Spring/Summer Menu is Now Available
Situated on the picturesque Kennet & Avon Canal The Barge Inn offers excellent food, great Wadworth beers, an extensive wine list and much more. It really is a pub for all seasons.
WEDNESDAY SPECIAL
Two Fish & Chips just £16.95!
THROUGHOUT MAY Enjoy our INDONESIAN SPECIALS every Thursday & Friday! See our website for more details. Bar Open Mon - Sat 11.30am - 11pm Sun 11.30am - 10:30pm
SERVING FOOD 7 DAYS A WEEK Lunch 12-2.30pm | Dinner 6-9.30pm
Food Served Mon - Thurs 12pm - 2.30pm & 6pm - 9pm Fri - Sun 12pm - 5pm & 6pm - 9.30pm Sign up to our mailing list and get £5 off your food bill when you spend £20! Details on our website.
Tel 01380 828230 www.bargeinnseend.co.uk
Seend Cleeve, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 6QB
99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6LL t 01380 870263 | e restaurant@lambonthestrand.co.uk
A
PUB
| food & drink
Cooking up a feast this summer
B
ased in North Bradley, near Trowbridge, Kalahari Kitchen provides onsite catering with a difference. Their food combines Southern African foods such as boerewors (farmers’ sausage) guinea fowl, springbok and buffalo with more traditional ingredients such as pork ribs, burgers, chicken and steaks. All meats, vegetables and salads are sourced locally and are always the very best quality Mother Nature can provide. The magical touch to their dishes though comes from using marinades, dry rubs, glazes and sauces found mainly in the American South; it’s a mouth watering combination that was meant to be. Kalahari Kitchen specialise in outdoor barbecue events that are perfectly suited to private parties, festivals, fêtes and corporate events. That being said they
are equally happy to offer a number of indoor catering options too. There is a selection of menus to choose from (listed in full on their website), including a children’s menu, and they can also customise menus to your requirements. In addition to the catering Kalahari Kitchen has also opened a brand new shop at Trowbridge Garden Centre. Open from Wednesday to Sunday (opening times are on the website) you will find a range of Southern African products including biltong, boerewors, drywors, koeksisters and a selection of confectionery and grocery items. They also host a braai every month at the shop – details are posted on their Facebook page (search Kalahari Kitchen) – be sure to pop by! Let them take the hard work out of your event or party and take care of
Braaimeat on the grill
things from start to finish with their professional team. Al and Ginni look forward to providing you with a sensational taste experience that will leave you full, happy and contented. For more information see the website or call Al or Ginni on 01225 938455. • kalaharikitchen.co.uk
THE THREE
A Southern African Feast Sensation Catering For Any Occasion, Indoor or Outdoor. Including... Festivals Field Events Corporate Events Private Parties
Recipes and cooking methods found throughout Southern Africa combine with marinades, rubs and sauces from the American South to create a mouth watering fusion that was meant to be.
Shop now open at Trowbridge Garden Centre Contact Al or Ginni 01225 938455 07885 680287 / 07834 283782 kalaharikitchen@hotmail.co.uk www.kalaharikitchen.co.uk
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HORSESHOES
From leather jackets to suits, work boots to shiny shoes and mohicans to combovers, you’ll get a warm friendly welcome at The Three Horseshoes.
Live Music with Friday & Saturday night bands, and Sunday afternoon acoustic sessions. Good selection of Real Ales available too Beer Garden | Pub Games | Real Log Fires | Parking Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA
Tel 01225 865876 | Find us on Facebook
food & drink |
A Foodie’s Feast
The 12th Devizes Food & Drink Festival takes place from 13 – 22 May 2016. Here are some of the highlights. The Market Fair takes place on Saturday 14 May
• ‘Bangers and a Pint’ at the Southgate Inn on Tue 17 May • ‘Food Glorious Food’ at Devizes Books on Wed 18 May You might find yourself spoiled for choice! Tickets are available to purchase from the festival’s online ticket shop or from Devizes Books. Some tickets may be available to purchase directly from venues themselves. A full programme of events is available on the website and you can also follow all the festival goings-on via Facebook. • www.devizesfoodanddrinkfestival.info
T
his year’s festival offers a mix of the popular tried and tested events and a number of new features that organisers hope will make this year’s programme even more exciting and attractive than ever.
from Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood and Devizes WI have kindly offered to cast an expert eye over the entries and judge the winners.
There will be an international theme throughout the week with events including: Kicking off the celebrations on • a French evening at the White Friday 13 May is a new event in Bear on Mon 16 May collaboration with Majestic Wine. You • Gianni’s ever popular will learn about pairing foods and Sicilian Evening in Swan Yard wines. This takes place in the Cheese on Tue 17 May Hall. Visitors to the Market Fair on • a ‘Night in Vienna’ at the Bistro on Saturday 14 May can expect more Wed 18 May food and drink stands than ever • the ‘Bangla Banquet’ at Bengal with a bar and live entertainment as Bites on Thurs 19 May well as the opportunity to purchase • an ‘Argentinian Fire Pit Hogget’ at tickets for the week’s events. There the Black Swan on Sat 21 May is also a ‘‘Bake Off’ event on 14 May. There are four categories – UnderOther highlights include: 12s, Men Only, 2016 Marmalade and • the ‘Prohibition Party’ at Devizes an 8” Quiche. The Bake Off, which Town Hall on Fri 20 May takes place at the Nursteed Centre, • a return of the popular ‘Drinking is a great opportunity for everyone in the Dark’ event at the Vaults on to show how much they’ve learned Sun 22 May THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
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A celebration of good food & drink from Wiltshire and beyond
13th May - 22nd May www.devizesfoodanddrinkfestival.info Supported By
FOOD & WINE CHALLENGE
‘BAKE OFF’ COMPETITION
GIANNI’S SICILIAN FESTIVAL
M AY 20
M AY 17
M AY 14
13
M AY
There are dozens of events to look forward to, with something for everyone. Including...
‘PROHIBITION PARTY’
Tickets for most Food Festival events are available from Devizes Books or on the website. Some tickets are available from the venue - see website for details.
We are recruiting for full time positions to join our exclusive team of fabulous individuals, passionate about hospitality, great food and service RESTAURANT SUPERVISOR Previous experience in a similar establishment would be an advantage FULL TIME WAITING STAFF Must be over 18. Previous experience not essential Please call 01225 865650 or send your CV to thegeorgeatwoolley@gmail.com 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk
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
| competition
WIN A SUMMER GARDEN TOUR FOR 2 & LUNCH AT
W
hatley Manor Hotel & Spa is offering one lucky reader the chance to win two tickets to join one of the hotel’s popular summer Garden Tours. Taking place on selected Mondays and Tuesdays from
WHATLEY
MANOR
7 June to 1 August, head gardener Andy Spreadbury will give guests a tour of the hotel’s 12 acres of English country gardens, lasting approximately two-hours and taking place in the morning, before lunch is served in the Le Mazot brasserie. With a total value of £88 for two people, the prize includes
tea, coffee and biscuits on arrival, the garden tour, and a two-course lunch with a glass of house wine followed by coffee. Guests are advised to bring along a raincoat and appropriate footwear in case of light showers. • whatleymanor.com
All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is email your answer to this easy question to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk, remembering to include your contact details so we can send you your prize if you are our winner.
WHO IS HEAD GARDENER AT WHATLEY MANOR? Email your answers now! Good luck! T&Cs: Closing date for entries is 31.05.16. The prize is for two people and cannot be used indvidually. It cannot be exchanged for a cash value or any other event taking place at the hotel. The prize must be redeemed on one of the garden tours as detailed. The winner will be sent a gift certificate in the post and booking instructions will be detailed. The prize must be pre-booked directly with the events manager at Whatley Manor. The prize is offered subject to availability and is non-transferable. We may pass your details on to Whatley Manor so they can contact you with relevant event information and offers. We may also add you to our mailing list to receive an online edition of the magazine each month. If you would prefer your details were not used in this way please state NO INFO on your entry.
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OLD MILESTONE NURSERY MELKSHAM ROAD, HOLT, WILTSHIRE BA14 6QT
ORDER YOUR SUMMER HANGING BASKETS NOW Hundreds of ready planted baskets & pots available
SUMMER BEDDING & BASKETS
Large range of trailing plants & thousands of garden-ready bedding plants PLUS standard fuchsias, geraniums, perennials, herbs, shrubs & climbers
01225 783226 WE ARE A FAMILY RUN NURSERY SELLING ONLY PLANTS
| gardens
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A Gardener's Delight
gardens |
Avonfield Gardens, now based on Marsh Road in Hilperton, is looking forward to another great year on its developing and expanding site.
A
vonfield Gardens is the kind of place real gardeners absolutely love. Not only does it have a huge selection of plants to choose from, but the space is devoted purely to gardening. From plants to seeds, compost to tools, it has everything for the garden and nothing else.
advice offering the appropriate plants with the necessary instructions. We can make up baskets and containers to order and we stock packs of plants that go well together, which is a great way for less experienced gardeners to get going on a new border. On the other hand we are also happy to offer advice to the more technically minded gardeners who want a more challenging display.”
The quality of plants is second to none. As well as growing a large number of plants themselves, they also source their plants and shrubs from a selection of tried and tested nurseries throughout the UK. “We know who does what best after dealing with them for years and we also see the plants before we buy so we can pick up the healthiest and strongest specimens,” says director Matthew Webb. “We buy from the best so our customers end up with healthy, strong plants. That way we end up with happy customers. It’s a simple recipe for success but it serves us well!”
"As well as growing a large number of plants themselves, they also source their plants and shrubs from a selection of tried and tested nurseries throughout the UK"
Matthew and his co director James Vincent have been in the trade for many years and employ a simple methodology when giving advice to customers: keep it simple. Matthew explains, “A young couple who have just moved into a new house will usually want attractive, low maintenance plants that will brighten up the place, so we’ll give them
Right now, as the chances of overnight frost fades, is a great time in to pop in for a supply of vegetable plug plants, including beans, lettuce, spinach, chard and more. They have strawberry plants aplenty too. As well as growing your own, now is an ideal time to take a look at their large and varied range of herbaceous perennials, although equally you may be looking to direct sow some annuals, or arrange a seasonal bedding display. Whatever you need, you’re sure to find it, and much more, at Avonfield Gardens. • avonfieldgardens.co.uk THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
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| gardens
Getting a lush lawn
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For a beautiful green carpet of a lawn speak to the local experts at Lawn Tender; their grass really is greener!
reating the perfect lawn that’s the envy of your neighbours is actually quite straightforward.The solution? Get someone else to do it for you. Kevin Maul and Sue Jacobs are just the people you need. They run the South Wilts and East Somerset office of LawnTender. As a company they
and uses non scorch feeds and weed controls that are not available to the general public. Kevin and Sue say, “Our strength is that we supply a vital service to many different people. Some have invested in new lawns and want to keep them in good order. Then
“LawnTender operates top of the range scarification and aeration equipment, and uses non scorch feeds and weed controls that are not available to the general public.“ care for thousands of lawns, ranging from small town and cottage gardens, to large country houses and estates. Their area covers Andover to Bath, taking in the major cities and towns of Salisbury, Warminster, Frome, Trowbridge, Bradford on Avon and all their surrounding villages and hamlets. With four other offices covering North Wiltshire, Berkshire and Gloucestershire, LawnTender operates top of the range scarification and aeration equipment,
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there are those who have retired and find it difficult to carry on
maintaining their lawns, and finally those who have spent a fortune on failed DIY treatment and realised that actually its cheaper to hand the job over to us!” In what is a competitive market, LawnTender has always placed high focus on customer service, providing personal ongoing advice, feedback and support throughout the season, resulting in strong customer loyalty from year to year. This all starts with a free, no obligation lawn assessment and quotation - all you have to do is call them on 01980 654800. • www.lawntender.co.uk
Before
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| house & home
A Bright New Kit Get a great new look for your kitchen with the help of Bradford on Avon company Formosa Kitchens.
I
f you are yearning for a new kitchen be sure you speak to Formosa. Set up almost five years ago by director Natasha Allin, the company has a superb local reputation when it comes to the design and installation of beautiful new kitchens. Catering for all tastes and budgets, Formosa can create your dream kitchen and, if required, can oversee your installation, ensuring continued quality throughout. They have a friendly and relaxed approach, and are keen to make customers feel at ease when taking on such an important project. Following a one-to-one consultation, customers are presented with a stunning and practical design, and - using local suppliers and installers - Formosa can then turn that
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design into your dream kitchen, which of course includes a top quality finish.
styles to detailed, classic traditional finishes, Natasha has noticed a recent trend in bold bright colours. “Lots of our customers have been coming to Whilst offering a complete range of options, from sleek, contemporary gloss us wanting to go bold, particularly
Natasha meeting with a client
house & home |
Kitchen
Formosa designs kitchens to suit all style and budgets
with their splashbacks and accessories. They are really fun and are a great way to make a kitchen feel more personal and individual. We’ve also just added a new brand to our portfolio – Crown Kitchens, which is already proving popular. Manufactured in the UK they offer a wide choice of styles and flexible options to suit your space. Pop into our showroom at 32 Silver Street, have a coffee and take a look! Alternatively give us a call on 01225 868877.” • formosakitchens.co.uk
WHAT THEIR CUSTOMERS SAY Mr & Mrs H, Bath “Great company to deal with, very professional and thorough but still maintaining the human touch which the multiples don’t have! Many thanks.’’
“Following a one-to-one consultation, customers are presented with a stunning and practical design, and Formosa can then turn that design into your dream kitchen” A recent Formosa kitchen featuring bold orange accessories
Mr R, Bath ‘’I felt supported all the way through the process of getting a new kitchen. It was my first time and was initially a daunting task. I appreciated being able to visualise the kitchen plans and touch to products in the shop. Formosa expertise guided me all the way and I’m delighted with the outcome’’. Mr & Mrs B, Bradford on Avon ‘’The company provided an excellent, all-round service from start to finish. Staff are knowledgeable about the full range of products and sensitive to customers’ needs. ‘’We met with the installer to discuss the whole process from start to finish. Nothing was left to chance and we were delighted with the end product. The fitting took place whilst we were on holiday - we had no qualms!’’ THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE
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| house & home
Property demand rises for spring CAROLINE WILSON from Wilsons Residential Estate Agents in Westbury gives us the latest on the local property market.
A
s we see the tree blossom bloom and longer daylight hours of spring the property market is warming up. There’s a short supply of 2 and 3 bedroom properties at the moment and prices have risen as much as 20% in the West Wiltshire
may be a perfect time as the price gap is smaller. In lettings demand is stronger than ever. Wilsons have rented properties since 2004 and have always had a large tenant waiting list. Over recent months the number of applicants
“there is a clear need for more properties to come to the market in both sales and lettings - this is a great time to be a seller or landlord.” area in less than 12 months. There has been a particularly strong increase in prices for smaller homes - popular with first time buyers - as market confidence returns and mortgages become more available. If you are thinking of moving to a larger home, now Wilsons handle sales and lettings in West Wiltshire
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per listing has more than doubled, rents are rising too but demand for rental properties is showing no sign of decline. One thing is for sure, there is a clear need for more properties to come to the market in both sales and lettings - this is a great time to be a seller or landlord.
Wilsons have great offers for May and June. All are subject to availability. SALES All new instructions are currently being offered with a fixed fee of £1200. This includes our FULL selling service plus NO TIE IN period. LETTINGS Receive our full management service for only 5%. If you just want us to find you a new tenant, our Let Only service is just £200. Contact Tina for Lettings or Kate for Sales on 01373 824958 or email sales@wilsons-residential.co.uk. • wilsons-residential.co.uk Lettings Manager Tina (left) with Senior Negotiator Kate
MORE PLEASE
Our selling success means we urgently require more houses to sell
CALL FOR A FREE MARKET APPRAISAL
01373 824958
14 High Street, Westbury, Wiltshire BA13 3BW
Enjoy a fabulous new kitchen at a fraction of the cost A wide choice of attractive, high quality UK manufactured materials available. Call now to arrange your free no obligation consultation and quotation.
CALL 01225 459559 | www.premierkitchendoors.co.uk
| house & home
Carpets Covered
From finding new flooring to fitting it, Allsop Carpets & Flooring in Frome offer a complete service at prices you might find surprising.
D
uring the last 25 years, Allsop Carpets & Flooring have strived to deliver the highest quality and service. How about fitting? Allsop’s do that! Moving furniture & clearing up? Allsop’s do that too! They have their own team of polite and friendly fitters who provide a first class fitting service. Through the years their commitment to their clients has led to a loyal customer base throughout the South West. If you pop into their Frome showroom you will discover an extensive range of flooring including wood, laminate, sisal, coir, wool and synthetic carpets as well as rugs and remnants. Carpets Allsop Carpets have an extensive range of carpets suitable for both the domestic and commercial markets. They can provide you with samples to match both your style and budget, whether you require
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a twist, loop, velvet or saxony pile carpets in wool, synthetic or a mix of both. They hold accounts with many of the UK’s leading carpet manufacturers and wholesalers. Carpet technology has come a long way in recent years - why not ask about their new stain-proof range? Naturals Specialising in all things natural, Allsop’s stocks a large selection of many natural floorings including sisal, sea-grass, coir and jute. These are made with sustainable natural fibres that are kind to both you and the environment. 100% wool carpets are also available in many different designs to suit all budgets. Another hard natural flooring suitable for all areas including kitchens and bathrooms is Marmoleum. This is made from 97% natural, raw materials. The full selection is available in the showroom.
Wood and Laminate A variety of wood and laminates are on display to choose from including, engineered and solid woods using both oak and bamboo. These hardwearing and stylish boards are available in many different finishes.
Find the Allsop Carpets & Flooring showroom within Tonemar Express Beds at Corner Garage, Christchurch Street West, where there is free undercover parking, or call 01373 463866 for further information. • www.allsopcarpets.co.uk
Offering beautifully designed kitchens, or kitchen replacement doors, with a FREE innovative design & planning service • Stunning ranges including Contemporary, Traditional, Painted, Gloss and more • Expert Design and Installation • Appliances from the Industry’s Leading Manufacturers • The Homemaker Customer Care & After Sales Service 5-6 George Street, Warminster, Wilts BA12 8QA
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Using British Manufacturers & Suppliers
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| business
How to make it in Marketing PAUL TAGENT, director of Bath Marketing Consultancy, gives advice to business owners on getting their marketing right.
M
arketing is multifaceted. The suite of marketing tools available these days means there are a wide range on offer for you to place what you do in from of clients and prospects. To me, these ‘tools’ can be categorised into 6 key areas which are:
than the cold canvassing indicated in my list. There are crossovers between the skills required to sell a meeting and to make a physical sale, but the intrusion factor is quite different!
Similarly, there are other marketing related initiatives such as offering 1. COLD CALLING (CANVASSING) free samples or special introductory Appointment making rather than price offers and I haven’t selling included the wonders of client 2. PR This can be press releases entertainment, but I don’t really feel and/or public relations I have much to offer here. Obviously taking a client or prospect out and 3. ADVERTISING Online and plying them with alcohol or food offline, both fall under the heading at a sporting event can play a very of paid for publicity lubricating role in your sales and 4. DIRECT MARKETING Not just marketing process, but it is really a direct mail but selling direct to form of bribery! customers rather than through a third party Think about what your marketing objectives are. These objectives 5. PRINT Company brochures and have to be business related. Aiming literature for a date to retire or an annual 6. CONFERENCES, SEMINARS, turnover figure are more personal EXHIBITIONS Placing your objectives. Once you set your skills and services in front of an objectives, allocate a budget and audience a timescale. Plan what you want to do and, more importantly, why. Not None of the above should be used everything you do will be a success as a singular entity or a solus route so prepare to test activities and to a successful marketing campaign. remember, you are unlikely to be an In my opinion, all of the above expert. There are good companies could and should be used when out there who can help! developing a holistic marketing strategy. Each initiative must be If you would like to get more used for the right purpose, with the help from a multi-award winning, right objective, at the right time, for approachable, professional and full the right target group. service marketing company based in the West Country give them a call I appreciate that the six above could on 01225 436426 or head to their be added to, but I didn’t include website for more information. telesales as this is more about making a direct sale over the phone • bathmarketingconsultancy.co.uk
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Paul Tagent, director of BMC
“Once you set your objectives, allocate a budget and a timescale. Plan what you want to do and, more importantly, why.”
| health & wellbeing
Why live-in care?
Rojene Care are live-in care specialists who can help you, or your loved one, stay in their own home for longer. provided on a permanent, temporary or respite basis.
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B
eing able to remain in the comfort of your own home, maintaining the life you love, these elements are key to a happy and healthy life. Live-in care can give you this opportunity. It gives you choice, independence and flexibility. A live-in carer gives both you as the client, and your wider network of
PERSONAL CARE
family and friends a sense of security if and when needed.
WHY CHOOSE ROJENE CARE?
Rojene live-in care will work with you in a person centred approach. Our aim is to deliver the care you require, whether these needs are of a medical, social or emotional matter. We will create a care plan that takes into account your views, preferences and choices. We feel that the care provided should be of high standards to ensure you can live your life independently and in the comfort of your own home. Our carer’s are trained according to statutory guidelines and beyond. They receive on-going training to ensure that knowledge and skills are maintained to high standards.
HOW A ROJENE LIVE-IN CARER CAN HELP
A live-in carer can provide round the clock care if and when needed for you or your loved one. Care can be
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• • • • •
Support with all daily routines Dressing and undressing Washing, showering/bathing Continence care Medication reminders and administering • Support with mobility and assist with transfers • Assistance during mealtime To find out more call 01452 526150 to discuss your situation or email info@rojene.co.uk. • www.rojene.co.uk
ABD CARE FP_A5 Dummy Gridmaster 27/05/2015 09:58 Page 1
| health & leisure
Flying High If you have a love of all things aeronautic you may be interested in joining Warminster & District Radio Control Flying Club, which flies at Keevil Airfield.
W
arminster & District Radio Control Flying Club was started by a group of enthusiasts in 1952 when equipment was very basic but extremely expensive. Today, the club, flying at Keevil Airfield under licence agreement with the MOD, uses sophisticated radio gear and a plethora of aircraft. Members come from all over the west of Wiltshire.
unsuitable equipment or planes is reduced. The club is lucky to count in its membership, modellers with exceptional skills, both in building planes and flying. To see some scale models both on the ground and flying is like watching the real thing. Several club members take part as display pilots at national Several club members take part as display pilots at national shows
fighters, with actual jet turbine engines which sound, and smell, just like the real thing. Jets are for the few, but most members fly electric or internal combustion powered planes. The aim of the club is for those interested in model flying to enjoy the hobby in fresh air and with good company. Newcomers are made most welcome and, hopefully, enjoy the hobby as much as the existing members. Club evenings, with guest speakers, are held through the winter and social events including barbecues also take place. If you feel you would like to be part of this fascinating hobby, see the club’s website for more information and contact details. • wdrcfc.org.uk
“The aim of the club is for those interested in model flying to enjoy the hobby in fresh air and with good company.” Experienced and novice alike fly with the club. New members can be helped by an instructor with a “buddy box” system whereby two transmitters are linked so the instructor can take over in the event of an impending mishap; a bit like dual controls in a car. Advice on suitable equipment is also given to newcomers so the risk of purchasing
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shows, flying models including WWI biplanes and also in competitions for aerobatic and scale flying. Club members fly powered fixed wing, motorised gliders and helicopters. In addition, some members, with a great deal of experience, fly jets. These are scale models of real aircraft, usually
We have been trading in Wiltshire for 20 years, and are specialists in writing Wills, advising on Trusts and helping with Probate.
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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
| health & leisure
Taking care of your toes
F
If your feet could do with some TLC then head over to Trowbridge Chiropodist PETER WILKINSON.
eet have a lot to contend with. Not only are they tasked with carrying our entire body weight for up to 10,000 steps a day, we squash them into an unhealthy array of sweaty trainers, high heels and flip-flops. Figures from the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists show that 80% of UK women suffer problems with their feet, while one in five men suffer foot pain most days. If your feet are looking unloved, or are feeling sore why not make an appointment with Trowbridge Chiropodist Peter Wilkinson? “For 15 years I have supplied a trusted and caring chiropody service in Trowbridge and throughout Wiltshire.” Says Peter. “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 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. Trowbridge Chiropodist to make an As we look towards summer we appointment on 01225 571030 uncover our feet from winterthey even offer home visits, subject wrapped socks and boots, swapping to availability. Find them at 13 them for flip flops and sandals. It’s St Georges Works, Silver Street, time to get rid of any hard skin, trim Trowbridge. your toenails and then step out with your best feet forward. Call • trowbridgechiropodist.co.uk
The
Westmagazine Wilts
Have you seen our new website?
Trowbridge Chiropodist Peter Wilkinson M.Inst.Ch.P
IMPROVING YOUR FOOT HEALTH
It has a link to the latest edition of the magazine plus loads of extra local content & features.
No subscription required www.westwiltsmag.co.uk 68
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We can help with... • corns • calluses • hard skin • ingrown toenails • fungal nail infections • footcare for the elderly, diabetics & those with poor circulation • advice & 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
Places for People
P
health & leisure |
There are lots of ways to be active, just head along to your local Places for People sports centre or swimming pool.
laces for People Leisure is passionate about helping you to lead an active lifestyle whatever your age and ability. Regular activity is proven to help boost energy levels and it’s good for your mind and body. With 8 sites across West Wiltshire to choose from you’ll find a centre near to you that will help you commit to a regular active lifestyle. Whether it’s Squash, No Strings Badminton, Walkaerobics, Falls Prevention, Young at Heart, Tai Chi, Walking Football, Aqua Classes or Swimming, all at your own pace. Ever thought about swimming? Did you know swimming is low
impact so the stress on joints, bones and muscles is reduced? Swimming can help move blood through your muscles to help them recover, is a great workout and can improve endurance and flexibility. For non-swimmers adult swimming lessons are also available. Their staff are all very friendly and will be happy to talk through your specific needs, alternatively visit their websites for more information, as listed in the advert below.
Trowbridge Sports Centre 01225 764342 Christie Miller Sports Centre Melksham 01225 702826 Melksham Blue Pool 01225 703525 Leighton Recreation Centre Westbury 01373 822891 Westbury Swimming Pool 01373 822891 Warminster Sports Centre 01985 212946
Bradford on Avon Swimming Pool 01225 862970 Castle Place Leisure Centre Trowbridge 01225 762711
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| bath rugby
STUART HOOPER
Bath Rugby’s club captain Stuart Hooper called time on his playing career last month. Here is what he had to say about his retirement. It must have been a difficult decision to retire, what led up to it? Injury basically. I’ve seen a surgeon and he has said that it’s not safe for me to carry on. I hurt my back playing earlier this season and it’s not recovered the way that we’d have hoped. You have to be fully fit to play at this level and I’m not, nor will I be again, so that’s it, the end of my playing days.
Hooper has been captain of Bath for five seasons
Did you believe this season would be your last? That’s difficult. As you get older you start to think about when you “I feel immensely privileged to have are going to finish, but I’ve never played at the top level for 16 years and really known. At the time I thought feel very fortunate to have done so.” last season may have been it, but I managed to play well and sign for immensely privileged to have played at to get up and about a little easier! But another year. I was taking it year by the top level for 16 years and feel very there are lots of exciting challenges year to see where I got to. fortunate to have done so. ahead and I’m really looking forward to getting my teeth into the next one As a forward is it easier What do you think you and hopefully being successful at that. to play through the pain will miss the most? of an injury? It’s those moments. The games are • bathrugby.com I think you get used to it! Everyone great and I will miss that undoubtedly goes out there with niggles, things but for me it’s those moments at the that hurt, that’s just part and parcel of end of the game, when you see the it. In the forwards though, when you emotion in the eyes of the guys, and aren’t as quick as the backs I think you what a victory means to them, or I can get away with carrying the odd head over to the edge of the pitch injury more but in the long term you and see my wife, and my boys run can’t keep doing it, not at this level. on to the pitch to see me. Those things are going to be very difficult You’ve had a fantastic to replicate and it’s about finding career full of highs, what something different that allows you to are your best memories? enjoy those moments. There are so many. Many of them are surrounding good victories, but for me what are you looking the most important things has been forward to in your the camaraderie, the friendships and retirement? the lifelong bonds that I have made I think not waking up on a Sunday with players and management. The morning with bumps, bruises and game gives you those moments. I feel cuts; I’m looking forward to being able
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| puzzles
Tea Break Teasers MAY WORDSEARCH
What/who is missing from the grid? MAYONNAISE MAYFLOWER MAYFLY MAYPOLE MAYORESS
SUDOKU
MEDIUM
MAYHEM MAYBE MAYDAY MAYHAPPEN MAYOR
MAYAPPLE MAYBUSH MAYBIRD MAYPOP MAYWEED
WIN A £10 NEXT VOUCHER! Email your answers to these trivia questions to comp@wired-publishing.co.uk by 23.05.16 to be in with a chance of winning a £10 Next Voucher. Good luck!
Q1: Where was the first parkrun on 2 October 2004? Q2: As of 15 April 2016 and including the UK how many countries stage at least one parkrun every week? LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS Wordsearch missing word: DELUGE Quiz answers: 1: St. Augustine 2: The Waste Land 3: Crabbies 4: 15 April 5: London Marathon
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Q3: Where is the Paris parkrun staged? Q4: What colour t-shirt do you get for completing 100 parkruns? Q5: What time does the Southwick Country Park parkrun start every Saturday morning? Be sure to include your contact details so we can get in touch with you if you are our winner!
Š Batterham Matthews Architects. Photo by Paolo Ferla Photography
| last word
Threenage Kicks
W
hen you decide to have children there are some things you know are on the horizon. Most are pleasant, lovely things that you will not be able to get enough of. Some, aspects on the other hand, will not be quite so welcome. These can range from not sleeping properly for weeks on end to your phone being locked as sticky little fingers have been pressing buttons and swiping screens. Then there are the almighty toilet situations and being late for appointments because not only do you have to strap the child into the car but you also have to arrange a myriad of soft toys on the back seat (in the correct order) before you can set off. Then you have to go back in the house as you have forgotten ‘favourite blankie’ and as we
of Marmite crisps. Some, if not most, of the flavouring had got on to her hands and then been transferred to the front of my shirt. What I perceived as politeness had actually been a monumental effort on his part not to break down laughing at how filthy the front of my shirt was. Anyway I digress. People warn you about the terrible twos but no-one ever told us about the phenomenom of the ‘threenager’. You expect a certain amount of attitude, stubbornness and back chat when dealing with actual teenagers but not when interacting with someone who is only a metre tall and just stringing together coherent sentences. Yesterday’s favourite coat/shoes/toy/ game becomes today’s reason for the biggest meltdown since Three Mile Island. Yesterday’s fave person
You expect a certain amount of attitude, stubbornness and back chat when dealing with actual teenagers but not when interacting with someone who is only a metre tall and just stringing together coherent sentences. all know you cannot leave without him/her! I went into a shop the other day to have a sternish word with the manager. I felt I got my point across pretty well, I wasn’t rude or shouty or anything of course but I was firm and polite and left with a smug, smile of satisfaction on my face….job done although the manager did seem a bit over smiley. When I got back to the car I realised why. Just before I left the house I had been playing with my daughter who had just had a bag
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becomes persona non grata and gets a scowl that would frighten the devil if he dared approach. You think you’ve found a formula that works, a phrase or a movement or sometimes just one word that will send them into raptures of laughter…..two hours later….. nothing. The mood swings are just incredible and the stubborn streak borders on freakish. You used to be able to use bribery to great effect. Trips to the
park, ice cream, toys, time watching TV can and have all been used in the past as inducements to get compliance. No longer…. Me: “You can have an ice cream if you get up from the supermarket floor and stop wailing” Daughter: “No” Me:“But you love ice cream” Daughter: “No I don’t, I have never liked ice cream and I never will” I then pick up the mini Beelzebub and one minute later as we are walking along the frozen aisle I will hear…” oooooh ice cream. Daddy can I have an ice cream” If you are thinking of having children I would urge you to do it. It will be the most exciting, rewarding, fantastic thing you will ever do. Just remember though terrible twos are a piece of cake, it’s all about the threenager and if it gets too much buy yourself your own favourite blankie…you may need something to cry into now and then!!
Phil Rockliffe