malmesbury/tetbury/nailsworth town crier magazine apr/may 2015 small 18 3 15

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FOOD & DRINK l HOME l MOTORING l GARDENING l PET CARE COVERING: TETBURY, MALMESBURY, TETBURY UPTON, BROKENBOROUGH, CRUDWELL, SHERSTON, LUCKINGTON, AVENING, NAILSWORTH, RODBOURNE, STARTLEY, PINKNEY, FOXLEY, HULLAVINGTON, LITTLE SOMERFORD, GREAT SOMERFORD, LONG NEWNTON, MINCHINHAMPTON, CHERINGTON & CORSTON. APRIL/ MAY 2015 www.towncriermagazine.com Auctioneers of Antiques, Furniture & Collectables ENTRIES WANTED WessexAuctionRooms Single items to Full House Clearances Deceased Estates www.wessexauctionrooms.co.uk 01249 720888 Westbrook Farm, Draycot Cerne, Chippenham, Wilts. SN15 5LH Local long established auctioneers with worldwide coverage Free appraisals at our auction rooms or appointments at your home Rally Driving at Castle Combe Circuit SEE INSIDE! WIN! Get into the Garden! T own Cr er Yr Local Magazine FREE NEW

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Malmesbury/Tetbury/Nailsworth Town Crier Magazine Apr/May 2015

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1The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015FOOD & DRINK l HOME l MOTORING l GARDENING l PET CARE

COVERING: TETBURY, MALMESBURY, TETBURY UPTON, BROKENBOROUGH, CRUDWELL, SHERSTON, LUCKINGTON, AVENING, NAILSWORTH, RODBOURNE, STARTLEY, PINKNEY, FOXLEY, HULLAVINGTON,

LITTLE SOMERFORD, GREAT SOMERFORD, LONG NEWNTON, MINCHINHAMPTON, CHERINGTON & CORSTON.

APRIL/MAY2015

ww

w.towncrierm

agazine.comAuctioneers of Antiques, Furniture & Collectables

ENTRIES WANTED

WessexAuctionRooms

Single items to Full House Clearances Deceased Estates

www.wessexauctionrooms.co.uk 01249 720888 Westbrook Farm, Draycot Cerne, Chippenham, Wilts. SN15 5LH

Local long established auctioneers with worldwide coverage

Free appraisals at our auction rooms or appointments at your home

Rally Driving at Castle Combe Circuit

SEE INSIDE!

WIN!Get into the Garden!

TownCr er Your Local Magazine

♥FREENEW

2 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

UK & European Coach Holidays

2015

on tours 4 daysand over, see backcover for details

HOME PICKUP

www.barnescoaches.co.uk

[email protected]

01793 821303

Woodside Road • South Marston Park • Swindon SN3 4AQ

3The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

4 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Welcome to the first issue of Your Local Town Crier Magazine. You can read all about the changes in Jake’s message opposite. Jake will continue to work with us as we build on the success of his magazine with more local items, features and articles for you to read.

Spring is here – and in our April/May edition we look at things you can do in your garden at this time of year. Some simple projects to get you started, begonias and making your garden more eco-friendly are all featured in this issue.

The Easter holidays are a time for getting out and about so please check our What’s On section. Why not visit Castle Combe, or you can enter our competition on page 35 for a chance to win a Rally Experience!

We are always interested in receiving items of local interest from our readers for possible inclusion in the magazine - why not send us something for the next issue!

Until next time . . .

The Stables, Fishers Brook, Calne, Wilts. SN11 9HBTel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com

Deadline for submissions for the June/July 2015 issue: 9th May 2015

Editor: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

CONDITIONS OF ADVERTISING:The Editor reserves the right to refuse any copy which she feels may not be appropriate material for print. No responsibility will be taken for any damage or loss of material caused by inaccuracy or omission of any advertisement.Artwork prepared by us remains the property of The Town Crier Magazine and reproduction in any form is expressly forbidden without prior permission from the Editor.

We provide artwork free of charge and where possible we will adhere to your request on layouts and type, but we cannot guarantee an exact copy. If you wish to produce your own artwork to a specific layout, or have any changes to an existing advert, please ensure your copy is with us by the 1st of month prior to publication at the latest.

TownCr er Your Local Magazine

APRIL/MAY 2015

Annie

Editor’s Letter♥

5The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

IN THIS ISSUE6 Local Focus Local News and Events

14 Puzzle Corner Crossword/Sudoku

16 Recipes Aubergine & Chickpea Curry Lemon Almond Cake

18 Easter Holidays Easter Traditions and a Recipe for Easter Cup Cakes!

20 Blakehill Farm Nature Reserve

24 Blowsy Begonias How to grow them

26 3 Garden Projects Seating, Strawberries and Grass

30 Book Reviews

32 A Book with a Purpose

34 Canal Boat Holiday Try one this year

25

21

A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM JAKE

Hello Readers! Welcome to the new look Town Crier!

After a long time running Your Local, I have now merged with another local magazine – hence the new look and the new name!

The Town Crier currently covers two other areas: Chippenham, Calne & surrounding villages and Royal Wootton Bassett & surrounding villages. The Editor, Annie, has been running the Town Crier for nearly 20 years, and I hope with her experience we will be able to grow and become a great magazine in the Malmesbury & Tetbury area!

We have made a few changes, firstly the name – we will now be called “Your Local Town Crier Magazine Malmesbury & Tetbury”. We have also changed the size of the magazine to B5, and we will be covering more areas – now delivering to over 10,000 households in Malmesbury, Tetbury and the surrounding villages!

We hope you like the new look, and continue to support us in giving the local area a local magazine!

If you have any questions or need anything, please feel free to get in touch with me – [email protected] or call 07725 191206.

Jake

24

Rally Driving at Castle Combe Circuit

SEE PAGE 35

WIN!

20

Brown hare, David Kjaer

34

18

6 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Local FocusWhat’s happening locally • News • Events • Charities • Clubs

Leading experts and gardening VIPs Dan Pearson and Sarah Raven will be amongst the star guests descending on Malmesbury in April when the historic town plays host to the inaugural Gardens Illustrated Festival. 

Taking place on the evening of Friday 17 April and all day on Saturday 18 April, the Gardens Illustrated Festival will feature a fascinating programme of talks, garden tours,

and photography and garden art workshops, plus the opportunity to buy from a carefully selected gathering of the country’s finest nurseries and suppliers of beautiful garden products. 

Marie Davies, Publisher of Gardens Illustrated, says: “Widely recognised as the world’s most influential and inspiring garden title, Gardens Illustrated prides itself on featuring the very best gardens, plants and products. This festival will see the pages of the magazine brought to life as Gardens Illustrated takes over Malmesbury’s Abbey, Town Hall and sacred Cloister Gardens for a celebration of all things horticulture.” 

For the full line-up of talks, events and exhibitors and to order tickets for individual talks and garden tours, visit the Gardens Illustrated Festival website at gardensfestival.com. 

Gardens Illustrated 2015Festival at Malmesbury

The Boondocks Festival17th–18th July 2015

The Boondocks Festival is Malmesbury’s first independent, home-grown music festival. Following an amazing Kickstarter campaign in late 2014, they have put together a weekend of great music, entertainment, food, and drink for the young, old and in-between. To find out more go to: www.theboondocksfestival.co.uk

APRIL/MAY 2015WHAT’S

ON NEAR YOU

7The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

8 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Food & DrinkLocal Focus

Concert at the KingsSaturday May 30th 2015

At the time of going to press the following acts were confirmed to appear; Lindisfarne, Squeeze, Howard Jones, Sweet and Animals and Friends.

“Concert At The Kings”, The Kings Arms, Pub Lane, All Cannings, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 3PA (01380 860328). Saturday May 30th, open from 12 midday to 11pm.

Information: www.concertatthekings.co.ukwww.facebook.com/ConcertAtTheKingsTwitter: twitter.com/concertatkingsFor tickets availability: The Kings Arms, All Cannings (01380 860328), Sound Knowledge, Marlborough (01672 511106), Wadworth Visitor Centre, Devizes (01380 732277).

Tetbury Woolsack Races 2015

Market Place, Tetbury on 25th May 2015

An official race day has been going for over 30 years now with world records entered in the Guinness book of Records. The race events are complemented by a street fair featuring varied stalls, a funfair, musical entertainments and roving entertainers. A fantastic family day out.

Find out more: www.tetburywoolsack.co.uk

The Grittleton Plant & Food Fair31st May 2015 - 11am

The Street, Grittleton, Chippenham, SN14 6AP

Set in the stunning surrounds of Grittleton House, plant lovers and “foodies” are in for a real treat, with the chance to browse the many stalls selling plants from specialist nurseries, stunning accessories for your “room outside”, and delicious local artisan produce. It is going to be a fantastic day out for friends and family. Refreshments will be available.

Organised by children's charity Action Medical Research, a special guest appearance by the big fluffy mascot himself, Paddington Bear will be there to greet the younger members of the family. Free parking is available. www.action.org.uk/grittleton-plant-and-food-fair

9The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

[email protected]

01666 577409

Book now for a real treat atBest Western Mayfield House Hotel

Crudwell, Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 9EW

A SPECIAL OFFER FOR SPRING – COME AND TRY US!You will receive a 2nd main course FREE*

when you buy 1 main course from our local award winning à la carte menu!

Garden dining also available - offer available every day for lunch & dinner

To take advantage of this offer a reservation is essential and you must state this offer from the Town Crier upon booking. * Lowest priced meal free. Pre-booking required. Valid up to and including Friday 31st July.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer and subject to availability.

View our website for our Bi-seasonally changing, locally sourced menu !

10 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

iDiary Dates APRIL 2015

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRETown Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ Tel:01666 823748Email: [email protected]

THE NORTH WILTSHIRE VILLAGE FLOWER CLUB meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month in Crudwell Village Hall at 7.30pm – Contact 01666 577125

MALMESBURY MORRIS meets every Thursday at Corston Reading Room at 7.30pm. New dancers and musicians welcome

MOVIES@MALMESBURY APRIL

American Sniper (15) – Monday 6th April 8pm

Shaun the Sheep, The Movie (U) – Wed 8th & Fri 24th April 5.30pm

Exhibition on Screen – Van Gogh Tuesday 14th April 7pm

NT Live – The Hard Problem Thursday 16th April 7pm

The 2nd Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (PG) – Mon 20th April 8pm Friday 24th April 2pm & 8pm

Tickets available from Malmesbury Tourist Information Centre or www.oxboffice.com or www.malmesbury.gov.uk/cinema.html

MALMESBURY WRITERS GROUPOur friendly group aims to deliver a supportive environment in all aspects of writing. We aim to meet twice monthly, on a Sunday.For info call Felicia on 07928 104228

LADIES GOLFFree taster lessons for ladies along with coffee sessions, a free golf club, free practice, ‘keep fit for golf’ lessons and much more. Starting March 2015 at Minchinhampton Golf Club, Hampton Hill, Avening, Glos GL6 9BE Info: Sue Sturman [email protected] or on 01453 884933

Sherston Drama Group present – SEEDS OF DOUBTSherston Village Hall Wednesday 8th April – Saturday 11th April at 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 (concessions £6.50) including refreshments, available from Sherston Post Office Stores and Box Office 01666 840092

MALMESBURY WALKERSWalking the Cotswold Way.Fridays – starting Friday 10th AprilEveryone welcome. Further info: Mike Howarth 01666 825886 Nick Gamble 01666 826684. Email: [email protected]

SHAKTI DANCESaturday 11th April at the Town Hall: 10.00-12 noon. Please book in advance – contact Chris Hewett 01453 834304/[email protected] information see website: www.shaktichris.com

WESSEX CONCERT ORCHESTRASaturday 11th April 7.30pm at Malmesbury AbbeyBrahms – Academic Festival Overture, Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No. 2, Dvorak – Symphony No. 8. Tickets £12 (concessions £10) Available from Concert members or Michael Thomas Butchers

MALMESBURY & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB Monday 13th April 7.30pm in Charlton Village HallAn illustrated talk by Dawn Collins on “The Path to Paradise; A Journey through the Stourhead Landscape”

MALMESBURY FILM SOCIETY19th April at 7.30pmShowing ‘Tracks’ at St Mary’s Hall

MAGNA CARTA 800TH ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCEAn entertaining event with a full day of informative seminars by some of the country’s leading historians. 25th April 2015 at the Civic Centre, Trowbridge9.30am–4.30pm £10 (including a buffet lunch) Tickets available from: www.trowbridgecivic.co.uk

FOLK FESTIVAL24– 25 Apr 2015Live music in the Tetbury Goods Shed in aid of the arts centre project. Seewww.tetburyraillands.com

THE KALEIDOSCOPE OF DEMENTIAA talk by Louise Morse MA (CBT)Monday 27th April 2.30pm or 6.30pm at Malmesbury AbbeyFor more information & to book a place please contact the Parish Office 01666 826666

WESTONBIRT HOUSE & GARDENS OPEN DAYSSun 12th April & Sun 3rd May 201511am–5pm. Westonbirt House, Westonbirt Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QG www.holfordtrust.com

What's On

MALMESBURY BEER FESTIVAL & WILTSHIRE BUTCHER’S SAUSAGE COMPETITION

Friday 10th April 7–11pm & Saturday 11th April 12noon–11pm Malmesbury Town Hall

Live music, wine and food. Tickets £5 in advance or £6 on the door, to include a commemorative glass. Available from The Whole Hog, The Horse Guards (Brokenborough), Rose & Crown (Malmesbury). In aid of Malmesbury Schools.

11The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Footcare:shoes and slippers

Footcare appointments

MAKE LIFE EASIER

On the move: Mobility scootersMobility scooter repairs

Large range of mobility aidsHire services

Stairlifts

Rise and recline furnitureAdjustable beds

FREE Hearing health check

The Mobility Store | Unit 9a Ellendune Shopping Centre | WROUGHTON | SN4 9LNNEXT TO TESCO - FREE LEVEL PARKING | Tel: 01793 815083

56 George Lane | MARLBOROUGH | SN8 4BY | Tel: 01672 511550Lansdowne | BOURTON ON THE WATER | GL54 2AR | Tel: 01451 810088

www.thehearingandmobilitystore.co.uk

Specialists in all roofing, Upvc fascias, soffits and guttering, leadwork, chimneys and sundry works for your

home or business

Experts in all building works, renovations, conversions, decorating,

kitchens and bathrooms for your home or business

[email protected] Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw,

Melksham SN12 8EF

www.mardenroofing.co.uk

[email protected] Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw,

Melksham SN12 8EF

www.priorandcompany.com

Prior and Marden joint advert.indd 1 26/01/2015 14:03    

The Little Balloon Company Wiltshire

07791 796223 [email protected]

www.thelittleballooncompany-wilts.weebly.com

Supplying every kind of Balloons, Hand- Crafted Wedding Stationery, Wedding Hire Items, Table Decoration & so much more!

12 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

ii

Diary Dates MAY 2015

THE SARSEN TRAIL AND NEOLITHIC MARATHON3 May 2015 Avebury.A fun-filled, fabulous fundraising day out for the family – a multi-terrain running, walking and mountain biking event, taking you through the Vale of Pewsey, the Avon Valley and then across the beautiful ancient landscape of Salisbury Plain between Avebury and Stonehenge. We’ve got races and distances for all the family (even the dog!). Choose from a Full or Half Marathon, a 7, 11, 15 or 26 mile walk (depending on how energetic you feel) or a 30 or 50 km circular rough terrain bike route.Entry fees cover the cost of us running this event and raise precious funds for the Trust. www.wiltshirewildlife.org/sarsen-trail

BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS Wednesday 6th – Sunday 10th May, Cross Country 9th MayBox Office Tel: +44 (0) 1454 218 375www.badminton-horse.co.uk

FAIRFORD FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL10th May 2015Fairford Market Place GL7 4LT 01285 712150. Come and try local food and drink in Fairford Market Place as part of the annual Fairford and Lechlade Food and Drink Festival.

WALK THE WILTS & BERKS CANAL Sunday 10th May 2015Everyone is invited to join MCC’s Annual Sponsored Walk from the Buttercross in Market Place Chippenham to The Bell in Lacock. Walkers can choose to either walk there and back as part of the main walk (10 miles), or walk just one way and catch the provided minibus back (5 miles). Tel. 01373 859207 or email: [email protected]

Malmesbury School PTA presents ‘LASHES & TASHES’ – MAY BALLSaturday 16th May 7pm (carriages at midnight) at Malmesbury Town Hall. Black Tie, Luscious Lashes & Amazing Moustaches. Tickets £45 to include three course dinner, entertainment & disco

THE NAILSWORTH FESTIVAL16th May - 24th MayWe have a full programme of events see www.nailsworthfestival.org.uk

LECHLADE MUSIC FESTIVAL22nd– 24th May 2015Lechlade GL7 3AQ 01367 7003503 day family-friendly music festival in the beautiful Cotswolds market town of Lechlade-on-Thames. Status Quo to headline this year and Dr and the Medics are also confirmed! 60+ other fantastic bands will be playing on 3 stages. Book at lechladefestival.co.uk/tickets facebook.com/lechladefestivalTwitter@LechladeFest

CHIPPENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL23rd-25th MayA National Festival in the Heart of Wiltshire. Four days of the best in folk song, music, dance and traditions in the heart of Wiltshirewww.chippfolk.co.uk/

SOUTH CERNEY STREET FAIRSouth Cerney GL7 5TT 25th May 2015Fun for all the family with many stalls and attractions including, Live Bands, Morris Dancing, Punch & Judy Show, Magic Show, Bouncy Castles, Fire Engine, Pets Corner, Flower Festival & games galore plus much much more. With a bar, Pig Roast, Teas and Cakes, Curries, Noodles, Ice Cream and a Chocolate Fountain, come and join in the fun.

SUMMER HARE PASSPORT TRAILStarts 25th May 2015Cirencester GL7 1TW The outstanding success of 2014’s Cirencester Hare Festival is back this year with new events.

FUTURE EVENTS

YATTON KEYNELL VILLAGE FETEBack again in its traditional slot, Yatton Keynell’ s best-known and best-loved annual event.Saturday 20 June 2015 starting at 12.30pm For more information see www.yattonkeynell.com

FOREST LIVE CONCERTS ATWESTONBIRT ARBORETUM

TOM O’DELL Saturday 20th June

THE VAMPSSunday 21st June

ROBERT PLANTFriday 10th July

Tickets (still available at time of publication) from the Forestry Commission box office tel: 03000 680400 or buy online at www.forestry.gov.uk/music

CALNE’S 26TH COUNTY MUSIC FESTIVAL3rd, 4th & 5th JulyOpen Air Event – Oxford Road (A3012), Calne, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN11 8RX Info: Dave & Sandi King 01249 720820www.calnecountrymusic.com

THE 28TH CRUDWELL STRAWBERRY FAYRE, Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2015 from 10.30.

What's On

THANKS FOR THE CAKE!

Many thanks to the kind

people from Wessex Auction

Rooms who surprised us with

this lovely cake in recognition

of the new Malmesbury/

Tetbury Magazine.

13The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

GARDEN OF

THE YEAR 2014House & Gardens

The Estate Office, Bowood, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0LZEmail: [email protected]: 01249 812102

www.bowood.org

• Historic stately home• Award winning gardens• ‘Capability’ Brown landscape

• Rhododendron woodland gardens• Amazing adventure playground

and Tractor Ted’s Little Farm.

Bowood House and Gardens@bowoodhouse

Find us on Google+

27th March to1st November2015

Open From

A N

EW ??

? ACRE PRIVATE GAR

DEN

WILL B

E O

PEN MIDWEEK.

14 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Local Focus

PUZZLE CORNER

ACROSS1 Indicator, meter (5)4 Artist’s stand (5)7 Not fit for purpose (8)8 Back, behind (4)9 Territory (8)11 Highest point, peak (4)12 Middle (6)14 Yield (6)16 Golf club (4)18 Concepts, proposals (8)20 Cab (4)21 Muse, ponder (8)23 Musical or colour harmony (5)24 Layers (5)

DOWN1 Real, true (7)2 Overturn (5)3 Fade, wane (3)4 Conductor, terminal (9)5 Attendant, minion (7)6 Depart (5)10 Indistinguishable (9)13 Strain, stress (7)15 Ineffectual, futile (7)17 Respond, reply (5)19 Lift, elevate (5)22 Enmesh, nab (3)

Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 31

Corsham Weekend Walking FestivalThere will be a Corsham Weekend Walking Festival 12th to 14th June. As an added bonus this will be linked with The Pound Arts Centre’s Summer Festival, where there will be events and workshops. The Walking Festival will be opened by David Hempleman Adams, Box-based world Explorer.Corsham is a beautiful historic town, just on the edge of the Cotswolds, with “Walkers are Welcome” status. It’s full of lovely places to eat and drink with interesting shops and has Corsham Court as a visitor attraction.

There will be 22 varied walks on offer, plus optional evening events, so there will be something to suit all walkers; distance walks for the more experienced, medium walks, several themed walks; we’re offering a “”doggie walk”, free children’s’ walks, geology walks, a Railway walk to Box, walks to the stone mines at Box, plus Heritage walks in and around Corsham. To find out more visit www.corshamforwalking.org.uk and to book places go to www.poundarts.org.uk. Booking will start on 1st March. Optional evening entertainment on Friday and Saturday. The organisers hope you’ll come and join them! We are on facebook under Corsham Walking Festival so please “like” us.

14 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

15The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Specialists in all roofing, Upvc fascias, soffits and guttering, leadwork, chimneys and sundry works for your

home or business

Experts in all building works, renovations, conversions, decorating,

kitchens and bathrooms for your home or business

[email protected] Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw,

Melksham SN12 8EF

www.mardenroofing.co.uk

[email protected] Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw,

Melksham SN12 8EF

www.priorandcompany.com

Prior and Marden joint advert.indd 1 26/01/2015 14:03

A Quality Dental Practice in MalmesburyBarley Mow is a longstanding dental practice in Malmesbury.

Our aim is to provide quality dental care for adults and children, We can provide regular dental treatment as well as the more exotic cosmetic / aesthetic treatments.We have a fully staffed hygiene department for ongoing dental maintenance treatment.

To make an appointment to see either (or both!) a dentist or a hygienist then call us on 01666 82 2220 or click on the adjacent box to book an appointment online

If you have a dental problem we will see you as promptly as we can.

16 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Aubergine & Chickpea

Curry

Food

RECIPE

Preparation: 20 minutesCooking time: 50 minutesServes: 6

Ingredients2 aubergines2 tbsp sunflower oil, plus extra to serve, if you like1 tbsp brown or black mustard seeds10-12 curry leaves, plus extra to serve, if you like2 onions, finely chopped2 dried chillies, chopped4 tsp garam masala2 tsp ground coriander2 tsp turmeric400ml can coconut milk6 tomatoes, quartered400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

MethodChop the aubergine into large chunks (about 1 inch / 2.5cm across). Heat ½ tbsp oil in a large non-stick pan, and brown half the aubergine chunks for 2-3 mins on each side until golden brown and crisp all over. Remove to a plate, then repeat with another ½ tbsp oil and the remaining aubergines, then set everything aside.Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan with the mustard seeds and curry leaves and fry for 30 secs until fragrant. Stir in the onions and continue cooking until they are softened and beginning to brown. Add the dried chillies and spices with a spoonful of the thick coconut milk from the top of the can, then fry for one minute more. Add the remaining coconut milk, tomatoes and half a can of water. Simmer for 25-30 mins until thick and saucy.Stir in the chickpeas and aubergines. Continue simmering for 5 mins or so, until everything is hot and the aubergines are tender. Serve with rice or warm naan bread.

17The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Lemon Almond CakeServes: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients200g unsalted butter200g Demerara sugar90g plain flour90g ground almondsHalf tsp baking powderZest of 1 large, unwaxed lemon4 large eggs SYRUP

2tbsps Demerara sugarJuice 1 large unwaxed lemon

Set oven to 160C / Gas Mark 3

Line a loaf tin (25cm x 11cm x 7cm) with greaseproof paper.

MethodSieve the flour with the baking powder and mix in the ground almonds. Grate the lemon zest and add this to the mix too.

Beat the eggs lightly then add to the creamed butter and sugar, a little at a time. Don’t worry if it curdles a little.

Gently fold in the flour, almonds and baking powder with a large metal spoon.

Dollop the cake mixture into the lined tin.

Bake for 45 minutes until golden. To test it, insert a metal skewer. If the skewer comes out clean, the cake is cooked. If not, the cake needs a few minutes more.

Remove from the oven.

For the syrup, stir the Demerara sugar into the lemon juice...it will only partially dissolve, but there is no need to heat it. Prick the top of the cake with the skewer or a sharp knife and spoon the syrup over the cake. Leave to cool.

Try this cake with a scoop of crème fraîche and some fruit compote.

Yummy . . . this one’s a family favourite.

18 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Easter Holidays

Organise Your Own Easter Egg Hunt!

Send out themed invites on card cut into egg shapes, or maybe use rabbit or chick shapes.

If offering food, decorate a trestle table with pretty pastel table cloths. It may be better to stick with tiny savoury sandwiches, sausages or cheese and pineapple on sticks etc., as there will be a lot of sugar consumed after (and probably during) the hunt!

Try using a mix of eggs for the hunt: Foiled-wrapped cream eggs; hard-boiled decorated eggs; painted wooden eggs, and little plastic eggs filled with tiny toys or treats.

It’s nice to have a table set aside for egg decorating too. Supply hard boiled eggs, or plastic or wooden eggs bought from a craft shop, with paints, tiny flowers, googly eyes, gems, ribbons and glue, and have prizes for the best decorated eggs.

A variation on this is to set out cheap straw or paper hats and have everyone create their own Easter bonnet.

by Sarah Davey

These

cute cakes

make an

Easter

treat!

Easter Cup CakesMakes: 12 cupcakesPreparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15-20 minutesCooling time: 15 minutesDecorating time: 10-15 minutes

INGREDIENTS For the cakes115g (4oz) softened butter or margarine115g (4oz) caster sugar2 eggs, lightly beaten85g (3oz) self-raising flour25g (1oz) cocoa powder (optional - for chocolate cupcakes)

For the topping85g (3oz) softened butter175g (5oz) icing sugar25g (1oz) cocoa powder1 tablespoon milk3 drops vanilla extract2 packets mini eggs

METHODPreheat the oven to 180 C / Gas 4. Place the butter in a mixing bowl with the sugar. Beat until light and fluffy. Then gradually beat in the eggs, a little at a time.Sift the flour and cocoa powder (if using) into the mixture. Fold them in with a large spoon until combined. Use a teaspoon to dollop the mixture into silicon cases, or paper cases, lining a patty tin.Bake in the preheated oven until well risen and firm to touch, 15 to 20 minutes. Keep checking them so they don’t burn. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.To make the buttercream topping, place the butter in a bowl. Sift in the icing sugar and cocoa, and then add the milk and vanilla essence. Beat until really light and fluffy.When the cupcakes have cooled, ice the cakes. It looks good if the icing is piped on into a nest shape, but this is optional. Place chocolate eggs in the centre of each nest to decorate.

18 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

19The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

Easter Eggs & Bunniesby Susan Brookes-Morris

EGGS HAVE BEEN USED as symbols at festivals since before the time of

Jesus, but are now particularly synonymous with Easter and the story of the resurrection. Eggs are said to represent new life, and for Christians when they are cracked open, they stand for the empty tomb following Jesus’ rising. Eggs are also considered special, because although they do not seem alive they have life within them - especially in springtime when chicks hatch out.

In previous times people gave gifts of eggs carved from wood or precious stones. It is only in the last 100 years or so that sweet eggs have been eaten. The size and range of chocolate eggs available seems to increase every year. The tallest chocolate egg was 10.39 metres tall and made in Italy in 2011. It weighed 7.2 kilograms and was 9.6 metres at its widest point!

It is not known exactly who first created the story of the Easter Bunny, but it seems to have its origins in Germany. It was first mentioned in German texts in the 16th Century. In the 1700’s German immigrants told stories when they went to America of egg- laying rabbits, and they encouraged children to use caps and bonnets to make nests which the Easter bunny would fill with coloured eggs - if they’d been good.

The first edible Easter bunnies appeared in Germany during the early 1800s and were made of pastry and sugar. The symbol of the rabbit was probably chosen because of its associations with fertility and spring. It is believed that Eostre, the Anglo Saxon God of Spring, had a hare as a companion.

In addition to having Easter Egg Hunts to search for the eggs left by the Bunny, another common Easter activity is egg rolling. This is done using real hard boiled eggs, and time is usually spent decorating them beforehand. In years gone by the eggs were dyed using onion skin, today’s painting process is much easier.

In the UK egg rolling is generally done by rolling eggs down a hill, and the winner is the one whose egg rolls further or survives the most rolls. In the early nineteenth century in Northern Ireland, egg rolling was described as ‘trindling’ or ‘trundling.’ Another traditional game involves holding your egg in the palm of the hand and banging against your opponent’s egg. The loser is the one whose egg breaks first.

In the USA one of the most well known events is held on the White House Lawn, and involves parents and children pushing eggs along through the grass with wooden spoons.

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LIVING LANDSCAPES are a blueprint for how people and nature can live in harmony so that wildlife can recover from its decline. Wiltshire Wildlife Trust nature reserves, our gardens, green

urban spaces, the wider countryside – weave together throughout the county to create living landscapes.

At Blakehill Farm nature reserve, near Cricklade, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is undertaking one of the UK's largest grassland restoration projects. This 240ha site – the biggest Trust reserve - is being carefully restored to wildlife-rich hay meadow and pasture, habitats which were once common in Wiltshire and the UK, but which have steeply declined. With this one project Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is meeting more than 45% of the government's 10-year target for restoring lowland neutral grassland (hay meadow) in England.

As an airfield, Blakehill Farm, reverberated to the drone of Dakotas taking troops and equipment to the battlefields of Europe in World War II. Now it offers a rare insight into what was once an everyday farmed landscape. As well as skylark, lapwing, and 14 species of dragonfly on the site, blooming pyramidal orchids, rising numbers of brown hares, curlews probing at the grass with their long curving beaks and short-eared owls are just some of the successes of the restoration process.

These positive changes are largely due to precise hay cutting schedules and how carefully the land is grazed, making sure that wildlife is given the best conditions in which to thrive. The spreading carpet of wildflowers is down to a technique to transport wildflower seed from one reserve to another. The Trust cuts green hay at it’s nearby Clattinger Farm and spreads it at Blakehill. The Clattinger hay is full of wildflower seeds, (indeed the site is internationally renowned and protected for its wildflowers) and they drop onto Blakehill’s meadows, repopulating them with a rich mix.

Brown hare, David Kjaer

If you’d like to support Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, find out more about Blakehill or your nearest nature reserve or join us at the events opposite then visit www.wiltshirewildlife.org or telephone 01380 736069 for more information.

Blakehill Farmby Michele Gard, Fundraising Manager, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust

Wildlife

Snake’s head Fritillaries. John Hawkin/WWT

If you’d like to visit Blakehill Farm or Clattinger Farm nature reserves, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has two special events on offer:

Saturday 25 April FRITILLARY WALKSClattinger Farm nature reserve, near Oaksey

An opportunity to see one of Wiltshire’s rarest treasures. The UK has fewer than 30 sites where snake’s head fritillaries flourish and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is lucky that one of the best sites is on their nature reserve at Clattinger Farm. Tours available at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Cost: £3.00 per person. Booking is essential and places can be booked online or by telephone. Cream teas also available at £3.50.

Saturday 4 July from 1pm NATIONAL MEADOW DAYBlakehill Farm nature reserve, near Cricklade SN6 6RA

This will be a brilliant free open day with talks, guided walks, demonstrations, kids’ workshops, food and fun. Food and drink will be available to buy. This event is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and is part of our Magnificent Meadows project.

Ox Eye Daisy at Blakehill: David Kjaer

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In recent years, fleas have been proving much harder to control. Warmer winter temperatures allow eggs to survive outdoors through the winter months. We now see lots of dogs and have cats with fleas in January and February; so we now recommend year-round treatment for most of our patients. We do not think that there is actually resistance to some of our original treatments, yet we are finding that some do appear to be less effective.

Ticks continue to be a problem especially in summer months, and especially during wet summers or if you live near water sources. Both fleas and ticks can cause severe itching and irritation as well as spreading internal parasites and infectious disease; rigorous control of these parasites is really important.

If you find that your animal has fleas, as well as treating your animal, it is vital that you also treat the house with a household spray e.g. ‘Indorex’ or ‘Acclaim’.

It is also very important that all your cats and dogs are treated at the same time each month to ensure they do not pass fleas between them.

Fortunately we now have a range of new flea and tick products available to us, with plenty of different options available to suit both the animal and owner’s requirements - see panel opposite.

Recent changes in flea and tick control in dogs and cats

Katie Wheeler-Booth BVSc MRCVS

ADVERTORIAL

ADVOCATE- a ‘spot on’ preparation for cats and dogs - for use in kittens over 9 weeks and puppies over 7

weeks - applied monthly - treats fleas, mites and lots of internal worms

including lungworm - does not treat ticks

BRAVECTO- a flea and tick treatment- dogs only: can be used from 8 weeks of age- tablet form and seems very palatable - only needs to be given every 3 months- not affected if your dog gets wet

CERTIFECT- a spot on preparation - for dogs only, once over 2kg and 8 weeks of age- used monthly to kill fleas and ticks- a ‘spot on’ preparation, so your dog must not get

wet for 48 hours after application.

COMFORTIS- a flea treatment only (does not treat ticks)- for both cats and dogs- tablet form, and palatable to most animals- it may be crushed and mixed into food- needs to be given monthly - still works even if your dog gets wet (e.g. bathing,

swimming)- can be used from 14 weeks of age (as long as the

correct weight)

FRONTLINE COMBO- a ‘spot on’ preparation - kills fleas and ticks for 1 month - works if used in the correct way every month- for dogs and cats, once reaching 8 weeks of age

(and puppies over 2kgs)

SCALIBOR COLLAR- available for dogs - can be used in puppies from 6 weeks of age- kills ticks, sandflies and mosquitoes - lasts between 5-6 months- indicated primarily if you are taking your dog

abroad - ideally apply 1 month prior to travel- keep away from children

SERESTO COLLAR- treats fleas and ticks in both cats and dogs: - for puppies over 7 weeks and kittens over 10 weeks- lasts 8 months - keep away from children

www.georgevetgroup.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

Westonbirt Golf Course

Green Fees £10.00

Weekdays & Weekends

www.westonbirtleisure.com We are located just across the road from the National Arboretum

Maunditts Park Farm Holiday Cottages ... are part of a 350 acre farm located on the edge of the Cotswolds. They have a wide range of facilities in and around a beautiful courtyard to entertain adults and children alike. These facilities include: a heated outdoor swimming pool (summer only), a tennis court, beautiful farmland and countryside for walking, a snooker room and a sauna.

The five Cotswold stone cottages are situated next to a working dairy farm and overlook the stunning rolling hills of the Wiltshire countryside. The farm is located 8 miles from the M4 motorway with easy access to London (1.5 hours), Bath (45 minutes) and Oxford (1 hour). We look forward to welcoming you!

Maunditts Park Farm, Little Somerford, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 5BHEmail: [email protected] www.maundittsparkfarmcottages.co.uk

For more information please contact Zoe McGinn:

01666 82216407788 644480

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EVERY GARDENER HAS AT LEAST ONE GUILTY secret: mine is begonias. My mother insists they are vulgar and she

wouldn’t give them house room. A gardening friend turned up her nose at my begonia baskets last year, but I won’t hear a word against them. They are the cheerful, cockney barrow boys of the plant world and I love them.

They are pretty easy to grow once you know how, and you can start them off any time now if you have a warm windowsill or a propagator.

One of the reasons I find them so satisfying to grow is that they start life as a rather unprepossessing tuber, which my husband once described as looking like dried dog poo - he isn’t a gardener. The tubers should feel rock hard when you squeeze them. If they feel spongy, put them back.

There is also a right way up and a wrong way up. Take your tuber and examine it. There should be a concave surface - like a little dip - and a convex surface. The dip is the upper surface from which the shoots will grow and the convex surface sprouts the roots.

Blowsy Begoniasby Rachel Leverton

Gardening Feature

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Fill some 12cm/5 inch pots with soil-less potting compost so that the surface of the compost is 2.5cm /1 inch below the rim of the pot. This eventually allows for watering, but at this time of year the top of the tuber should be kept dry.

Push the tubers – remember concave side up - into the compost so that the top of each tuber is still visible. Do not bury them.

Keep the pots at somewhere between 15-18C / 60-75F in the propagator, in a greenhouse, or on a bright windowsill, though not in direct sunlight.

Water with care, and when the first flowers appear make sure they are well ventilated. High humidity and erratic watering can cause the buds to drop off.

Finally, begonias have both male and female flowers. The male ones are far bigger and more showy, so pinch off the female ones, which can be spotted because they possess an embryonic seed pod behind the bud. Doing this will mean that the male flowers last much longer. You may need to stake them to support the heads.

When summer arrives, you will be able to plant up pots and baskets and bask in the flamboyant blowsy beauty of the begonia – who could resist?

The Green Garden!

by Louise Addison

Install big water butts - Save as much rainwater as possible and deploy it with care. Water generously only where it’s needed, in the cool of the evening, to encourage deeper rooting. Mulch well.

Right plant, right place - For free-draining soil don’t plant thirsty plants which require a lot of water. If it’s clay, choose deep-rooted, strong plants, like roses and hardy fuchsias, which will withstand dry periods where the ground bakes.If an established plant can’t survive on its own, it’s probably not the right plant for your plot.

Ban peat - Peat bogs are an essential part of our eco system. Once they’re gone they’re gone forever. There is no excuse for buying peat-based products…ever. Use only peat-free composts, soil-improvers and mulches.

Recycle. Recycle. Recycle - Make a compost heap or buy a compost bin. Re-use plastic and crock pots. String old cds and bottle tops over newly planted seedlings as bird scarers.

Restrict chemical usage - Try nematodes for pest control. Encourage ladybirds for greenfly control by planting fennel, dill, white cosmos and scented geraniums.

Leave a wild patch - Build your own army of slug and bug killers. A pile of logs and fallen leaves and a patch of nettles will provide shelter for all manner of garden wildlife, including hedgehogs, ladybirds and beetles.

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SeatingDon’t forget an all weather seat so you can sit and contemplate all your hard work over a cup of tea or a nip of something stronger. Teak from renewable resources is fantastic but cast iron or aluminium is also good, though you’ll need a cushion to protect your posterior on cold days! Position it in a sunny area. Buy a few flowering daffodils, tulips and pansies and plant them in a pretty pot next to the bench, then sit back and enjoy.

Project Pleasureby Rachel Leverton

April is a great month for a garden project; one which can be achieved in a morning or an afternoon, and which improves a few square metres. You’ll feel you’ve achieved something wonderful and if you break the whole garden into

a series of small projects it suddenly appears more manageable. Here are three to get you started . . .

Gardening

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StrawberriesYou don’t need a huge patch to enjoy growing strawberries. Plant a few in pots as a treat. Buy young, rich green plants which have been certified virus-free. Plant 3-4 in a 12 inch (30cm) clay pot. The crowns (where shoots meet roots) should be level with the compost surface. Water them in and stand in the shelter of a house wall. If you have a greenhouse or a cold frame they will establish more quickly and fruit earlier. Pinch off any runners which form.

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Grass Lawns always look bedraggled after the winter. Remove dead grass by raking the surface with a wire toothed rake. Improve drainage on heavy soil by spiking it with a garden fork every 6 inches (15cm) or so, to a depth of about 4 inches (10cm), giving the fork a good wiggle each time. Sweep sharp sand into the holes with a broom. Then mow the lawn with the blades set on high and remove the clippings. Two weeks later apply a combined weed killer and fertilizer. If you’re lucky it will rain within 24 hours. If not just water it in. Mow weekly to keep the lawn thick and healthy.

Gardening

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CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW, 19th – 23rd May is to gardening what the Paris

catwalks are to fashion. Paris fashions may seem outlandish, but they push certain trends, which in a watered-down version end up in high-street shops. Likewise, though many of Chelsea’s show gardens are fantasy pieces which demonstrate outrageous ideas, the horticultural trends on display will find their way into our own more modest plots.

For example; did you know that bonsai specimens and topiary gardens were introduced at Chelsea in 1913? Rock gardens were introduced in the 1940s and decking in the eighties. All of these can now be bought in garden centres up and down the land.In 2006 James Dyson even produced a water feature in which

the water ran uphill. Actually I’m still waiting for my garden centre to stock one of those! Maybe one day . . .

Chelsea isn’t just about high fashion though; it reflects environmental trends too. In recent years there have been hosepipe bans in the great Pavillion and many of the gardens have showcased drought-tolerant planting schemes.

Chelsea draws over 150,000 visitors each year. For the past ten years it’s been held over five days instead of four, such is its popularity.

The sheer quantity and varieties of plants on display to the general public is breathtaking. Chelsea really is window-shopping at its finest. It’s like walking through a real-life version of the best garden design catalogue in the world.

And if you visit on the last day you don’t have to restrict yourself to window shopping. At 4pm precisely a bell rings and the great Chelsea sell-off begins.

The poor designers, after all their hard work, begin the mammoth task of dismantling their creations. The good news is that the public can buy them. It’s perfectly possible to end up owning a little piece of a prize winning garden. So what should you choose?

If it were me I’d want something special; a reminder of my visit. I’d go for a species which I know would grow in my garden, but an unusual variety, not available in my local garden centre. In my case it would probably be an unusual lavender or fuchsia.

Choose carefully and you could have a little piece of Chelsea gold adorning your plot for years.

Chelsea Flower Showby Rachel Leverton

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A Good ReadReviews by Willow Coby

The Secret of Crickley Hall James Herbert................................................... .

At over 600 pages, this novel from the master of horror does not disappoint as the pages fly by. Gabe and Eve Caleigh have moved with their two daughters from their London home to the West Country to escape the memories of their five year old son who disappeared without trace from a playground a year ago. Their new home is Crickley Hall, a large house with a checkered past, but it has been empty for many years. It seems a bargain price. As they settle into the community they learn more about the village, and Crickley Hall. Tragedy occurred during the Great Flood of 1943, when the hall was being used to house orphans evacuated from London due to the Blitz. The children and their guardians all perished in the flood, and it would appear that the young victims are not content to remain quiet.

Soon Eve starts seeing her missing son and, like an unstoppable wall of water, the horrors that lie lurking in Crickley Hall flood to the surface, and Gabe must fight to save his family as the truth of that night in 1943 emerges: a truth that it is worse than any nightmare. Read it if you dare.

Delphi and the Glass Slippers Darcey Bussell....................................................

For most young readers, Darcey Bussell will be familiar through the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. What they may not be aware of is her career with the Royal Ballet, and she has poured this love and knowledge of ballet into her series of books for young ballet obsessed girls. The Magic Ballerina books follow the adventures of Delphie, a young girl who attends a ballet school. She is given a pair of red ballet shoes

which turn out to be magical, and are able to whisk her away to the land of Enchantia where characters from famous ballets live.

In this book Delphie has to help Cinderella. Something strange is happening and, as the clock chimes seven o’clock, time jumps and she never gets to attend the ball. Along the way, Delphie also encounters a mysterious cloaked figure who tries to keep the Prince from finding Cinderella.

Guaranteed to delight any budding ballerina, this book is exciting and full of little glimpses into the world of ballet and dancing.

The Reader Bernhard Schlink.....................................................

This year sees the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and the horrors of the Holocaust came to the world’s attention. In the intervening years many great pieces of literature have been written to explore why it happened, and the consequences of it. One such book is The Reader by the German author, Bernhard Schlink. Set in West Germany in 1958, Michael, a 15-year-old falls ill with hepatitis and befriends a 36-year-old woman, Hanna. They develop a close relationship until she suddenly disappears a few months later. The narrative then skips to six years later where Michael, now a law student, is observing a war crimes trial. On trial are a group of female SS guards who served at Auschwitz. Michael has to battle his emotions and the reader is asked, along with the protagonist, to question why such atrocities were allowed to happen and how can we stop them happening again. The issue of how ordinary Germans carried out Nazi orders is one that Germans have struggled to come to terms with and Schlink explores this in a touching manner.

The style of writing is sparse at times – with little explanation offered to the reader at times. It can appear blunt, but offers a clarity that forces the reader to engage with the subject matter. It reflects how the post-war generations in Germany have struggled to come to terms with the actions of ordinary Germans during the war.

Books

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Foot Health Care www.foot-health-care.co.uk

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AMOSjoinery

32 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL/MAY 2015

ADAY IN THE LIFE OF 100 WOMEN IN BRITAIN is not just a

brilliant and fascinating read, it has the power to change women and their children's lives. It reaches parts other books do not reach (as they say!) All monies from this book go to economic projects that skill-up and give women in Nepal the means to earn a living. This means they do not have to leave their families and villages and go to other countries to work; and widowed mothers do not have to give their children to orphanages as they have no way of earning money to look after them.

Authored by 100 individual women, 100 different voices come from the pages of this very special book. A 100 stories giving a truly human 'snapshot' of women's lives as lived in Britain. These real 'every-day' women, who range in age from 18 to 95 years, do all sorts of things - make jewellery, chocolate, honey; work as an accountant, nurse, teachers, hairdresser, actress, vicar; teach yoga, African drumming and how to write; are carers for their husbands, mothers or children; write books and poetry, work as a butcher, run a cafe, and so much more. Each one writes honestly and bravely about different aspects of a woman's life - getting married, being 'dumped' for a younger version, being a 24 hour 'carer', finding the 'right' but wrong house, turning one's life around, losing one's mother, coping with the trauma of a dangerously ill child, living through the many changes of nearly a century. The book is feisty, funny, sometimes chokingly sad, and truly inspirational. A great read. A great gift to yourself and to others.

The book £9.99 can be purchased from Pen & Paper Bookshop, Victoria Hill, Old Town Swindon, the Lighthouse Bookshop, Highworth, on-line at www:the100womenbookproject.com or direct from the BOOK PROJECT – contact [email protected]. We would welcome other shops taking the book for sale. Talks about this amazing book and projects can be arranged by contacting Dr Rosa Matheson 01793 764979.

Books

A book with a purposeby Dr. Rosa Matheson

the BOOK PROJECT, (our registered NFO) first project was a 'micro-finance project for 35 women working with the Rotary Club of the Himalayan Gurkhas. Now we are helping the 'Himalayan Adventure Girls', a first in Adventure Tourism for young women in Nepale, to run their own business. We are also supporting other projects, one with the Mountain Institute to train and mentor 153 hill-village women in farming medicinal herbs, another a street-seller in Kathmandu, and the other a young Nepale doctor.

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Swimming Lessons with LizNear Lyneham

Small classes, warm pool, parking, friendly environment.

Children’s Half Hour Lessons Age 4+

Adult 1:1 lessons on requestFor further details contact Liz on

07833 [email protected]

Employment Opportunities in the Tetbury and Malmesbury areas:

• Part-time or full time Housekeeper - £8 per hour

• Media Sales Professionals - £17,000 pa basic plus excellent bonuses

• Self-employed Beauty and Well Being Therapist

• Front of House Restaurant Assistants - £15,000 pa plus tips

• Assistant Chef - £20,000 pa

• Climbing/Outdoor Activity Instructors – rising to £9 per hour depending on experience.

Please call for details on 07933 580869or send your CVs to: [email protected]

Crockerton

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YOU DO NOT NEED ANY previous experience or a boat licence to hire a canal

boat, and you and your crew will be given all the training you need before you set off on your holiday. You will be taught how to use the controls which are fairly simple: the tiller controls left and right, and you push the lever forwards to go forward and backwards to stop or reverse. Life jackets are supplied to children and non swimmers for extra safety.

You can go to many different parts of the UK and choose your own itinerary. You can choose to moor up near a quiet canal side village or in a city centre. Birmingham for instance is famous for having more canals than Venice. It’s a good idea to look at maps and guides in advance, and talk to your hire company to plan a realistic route. Remember that the pace is slow. The speed limit on canals is just four miles an hour.

Kids or grandparents will love helping at the locks, and as you will be in a different place every day, you can find something to suit everyone along the way. This type of holiday is also ideal for dogs as there will be plenty of open spaces and traffic-free walking.

You will gain a new love of nature as you spot birds and wildlife along the way. You might also choose to do some fishing from the boat or the banks, but do remember you may need to buy a rod licence. There will also be many other highly decorated craft to see along the way. It’s great fun waving to those on the tow path, and some of your party might choose to cycle on the paths or walk parts of the route whilst you steer.

Today’s holiday boats are bright and modern and all the comforts of home are available. The Galley is fully equipped with oven, hob and fridge and in some cases a micro wave. You will find all the utensils, crockery and glasses that you need on board.

Lounges are fitted with comfortable seating, and some have DVDs as well as TVs. Bathrooms have hot and cold running water to the showers and sinks and a flushing loo!. There is usually a mix of single and double beds and often central heating.

If you are really looking for complete rest and relaxation, why not try one of the canal hotels that can also be found on the water. You get your own skipper and crew, who know the history of the canals, and you can share the trip with like-minded people. It’s the perfect way to unwind.

Canal Boat HolidayWhy not try a canal boat holiday this year!

The pace is slow - the speed limit on canals is just four miles an hour!

by Susan Brookes-Morris

Holiday

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With tree lined roads and picturesque Wiltshire villages, it’s something of a unique route to Castle Combe Circuit and many visitors are often surprised to find out just how much goes on behind the high hedges that line the Circuit’s perimeter road!

Let 2015 be the year you come on in and find out! Immerse yourself in the sights, smells and atmosphere that you just can’t get from watching motorsport on a TV screen!

Enjoy all the action as close as is possible in UK motorsport with viewing areas just metres from the track, and unlike many other UK venues, a walking route that takes you all the way around the circuit with plenty of places to eat and drink along the way!

Stay firmly on two feet and watch from the paddock and banks or get out there and experience the rush of driving the circuit for yourself! Whether on an Action Day, Track Day or Driving Experience, your vehicle or ours, it really is the ultimate thrill ride!

Besides Rally Driving, there’s plenty of driving experiences offered by Castle Combe Circuit to choose from including Single Seater drives,

WIN A RALLY DRIVING EXPERIENCEat Castle Combe Circuit

Mud, dust and a huge adrenaline rush!Castle Combe Circuit are pleased to offer Town Crier Magazine readers the chance to win a fantastic Rally Drive Experience: a three hour thrill that’s bound to get your blood pumping!

What to expect: You’ll first meet your instructor and complete an introductory demo lap before getting behind the wheel and hurtling down the dirt track for yourself! You’ll get to know the course’s lumps and bumps, twists and turns, then go against the clock in your 8th and final round, testing your driving to the limit! If you can still stand after this, it’s time for a quick swap into the passenger seat and for your instructor to show you what the cars can really do!

If you want to be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize worth £165, just answer the following question:

How many laps do you drive in the Castle Combe Circuit Rally Experience? A) ONE B) FIVE C) EIGHT

Email your answer, plus your name & address to [email protected] by 30th April 2015

Standard Terms & Conditions apply: Open to UK participants only, drivers must be over 17 years old and hold a current UK driving license. Height & weight restrictions apply see website for details. There is no cash alternative or voucher substitution available. By entering this competition you agree to receive emails from Castle Combe Circuit unless you unsubscribe from this service.

Race, Watch, Experience

White Knuckle Passenger rides and Startline Young Driver courses for 12-16 year olds. All can be bought as gift vouchers and make fantastic presents. Please see our website or call the office during normal hours for more details. www.castlecombecircuit.co.uk • 01249 782417

Castle Combe Circuit • Castle Combe • Chippenham • Wiltshire • SN14 7EY

2015 HIGHLIGHTSThe Racing Season -

celebrating its 65th year

The Grand National Motorcycle Race Meeting

The fabulous Autumn Classic Historic Racing Festival

Four great Castle Combe Action Days

Rallyday & much more!

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3 for 2● Physiotherapy ● Osteopathy ● 1 to 1 Pilates ●

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The StoneHouse team is expanding. To introduce our new, highly experienced therapists we invite you to take advantage of an introductory offer of three sessions of Physiotherapy, Osteopathy or Pilates lessons, for the price of two*.

T: 01249 700 417www.stonehouseclinic.co.ukPLEASE QUOTE REFERENCE YL/001 WHEN BOOKING*To qualify initial appointment must be made before 31.12.14.

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