October | November | December | 2017

discover Lacock

One of the country’s most unspoilt villages is right on our doorstep

Your Quarterly Lifestyle Magazine

Light up a life withDorothy House

Lots of great gift ideas for family and the home

GiftGuide

Hear about some of the Hobby clubs you can enjoy

at Wadswick Green

Cook up a delicious Beef

Bourguignon with our

easy to follow recipe

Winter warmers

Golden daysAs the evenings dim earlier with each day, it’s too easy to fall into the very British trap of bemoaning the approach of winter. I’d rather subscribe to John Keats’s view; this really is the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, when gathering swallows twitter in skies. There are few countries that make such a good job of autumn. Canada may be just as golden, but over there they’re heading into a winter that would have Roald Amundsen thinking of an extra cardie. Here, the worst we’ve got to look forward to is half an inch of the wrong kind of snow.

So let’s embrace autumn for what it is; the season for gathering indoors with our friends, or for settling down in front of the telly with a warm drink. One great thing about autumn is that it’s when the TV companies roll out all their big series.

We’ve asked Krzysztof, our talented head chef, to share some suitable secrets with us. He’s come up with a recipe for Beef Bourguignon that will certainly keep the chills at bay - I know, I’ve tasted it! And as it’ll soon be Christmas, he’s also concocted a rich chocolate and whisky cake that’s so good, it’s probably illegal somewhere.

Life’s good, whatever the weather decides to do outside. Especially if we choose to see the barred clouds touching the stubble plains with rosy hue, rather than the brownish-grey mulch of dead leaves that are clogging the drains.

Let’s enjoy our golden days in these golden months.

Chris Sherman

Welcome October | November | December | 2017

3

General Manager

Following the success of our Spring Living Fair, the luxury marquee is back to bring you a Winter Craft Fair

supporting local crafters and retailers on the Pavilion Terrace.

There’s also a chance to win some fabulous prizes fromour charity raffle in support of Dorothy House Hospice Care.

Friday 10th November 11am - 7pmSaturday 11th November 10am - 4pmA fine day out, enjoy mulled wine and festive treats

available throughout the weekend.

The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9RD

www.wadswickgreen.co.uk

wintercraftFAIR FreeEntry

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Rangeford News October | November | December | 2017

Dear Residents Well we are now into the Autumn months, the days are getting shorter and the leaves are turning fantastic colours before they fall. This no doubt will be a challenge for both our facilities team and the landscaping team as they battle to keep on top of them and make sure that they don’t block our drains! It has been a busy few months as many of you can see the contractor is progressing quickly on Almond Close and from several of the vantage points around site you can now see the buildings coming out of the ground, which is very exciting. I’d also like to welcome Aura Care Living who as you know, have been appointed to take over the day-to-day management of Wadswick Green. The Aura team look forward to meeting you over the coming weeks. The team at Wadswick Green have also been busy working on more events for the Residents and I know that as our thoughts are now turning towards Christmas and the New Year, Chris and his team have worked on a great Christmas Menu and a fabulous Great Gatsby Event on New Year’s Eve. Hope many of you will be able to enjoy the festivities with us. Looking forward to an exciting time. Kind regards

Chief Executive

Phase 2Progress to date:Things are really taking shape with the phase 2 development so we thought you’d like to know how we’re getting on and what works have been completed so far!

Ongoing and completed activities:• Foundations & sub slab drainage • Ground floor slabs • Brickwork & block work up to 1st floor level • 1st floor slabs to Block F • Lift shafts • Excavation of car parks • Stormwater soakaway cell

Planned works until Christmas 2017• Complete brickwork and blockwork structure on Block F and up to 2nd floor Block E • Complete floor slabs to all levels on Block F and up to 2nd floor Block E • Complete pre-cast concrete lift shafts and stairs • Complete excavation and lay hardcore to car park areas

Rangeford News

Early July 2017 Late July 2017

August 2017 Currently

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Recipes October | November | December | 2017

Winter Warmer

7

For me, Burgundy has always personified the spirit of French cuisine. Its wines are among some of the world’s most varied, as well its finest. Macon in the south gives us classic white Burgundies like Pouilly-Fuissé and the powerful, long-lived Saint-Veran. The north brings us the bright steel of Chablis, while a couple of hours’ drive to the south east brings us to the fabled Côte d’Or.

But it’s Burgundy’s red wines that make me dream of the soft warmth and gentle friendliness of this golden region. I believe wine is to be enjoyed, not revered. We should drink it because it tastes wonderful, not to impress people with the sensitivity of our palate. And if we want to cook with it, who’s to stop us.

This issue I’ve got a real autumnal treat for you. There’s not going to be much subtlety in this recipe; this one is all about flavours so big they’ll give you vertigo. It celebrates one of Burgundy’s greatest inventions: Beef Bourguignon. It’s a dish that started life as a simple rustic stew. The Burgundian peasants would have scraped together the cheapest, toughest cuts of meat and turned them, with generous lashings of their ruby wine, lots of locally-grown garlic and, above all, hours of slow cooking, into something truly magnificent.

Bouquet GarniYou can buy ready-mixed bouquet garni, but it’s more fun, more authentic - and often more tasty - if you make your own. It’s simply a selection of herbs tied together with string to make a small bouquet. Historically, every family would have used its own mix, but almost everyone would base the bouquet around parsley, thyme and bay leaves. To this, add any of your favourite herbs - favourites include basil, rosemary and tarragon, though you’ll also find many cooks adding carrot, celery leaves, celeriac, leek or even a slice of orange peel.

Beef BourguignonIngredients:• 3 tsp goose fat or vegetable oil• 600g shin beef, cut into large chunks• 100g smoked streaky bacon, sliced• 350g shallot or pearl onions, peeled• 250g chestnut mushroom (about 20)• 2 garlic clove, sliced• 1 bouquet garni• 1 tbsp tomato purée• 750ml bottle red wine*

* you may need a spare bottle if your will-power’s as poor as mine!

Begin by heating a large casserole pan and add 1 tablespoon of the goose fat. Season the beef and add a manageable amount of it - probably about half to a third - to the pan. Fry it for three to five minutes, by which time it should be golden brown. Turn it over and fry the other side until the meat is browned all over. Add more goose fat if the pan starts to dry out. Transfer the browned beef to a colander and repeat the operation until you’ve sealed all of the meat. Put a dish under the colander as so that you don’t lose any of the meat juices - they’re important!

Now drop the bacon, onions, mushrooms, garlic and bouquet garni into the meat juices remaining in the pan and fry until lightly browned. Mix in the tomato purée and cook for a few minutes, stirring well. This enriches the bourguignon and gives the stew its glorious flavour. When it’s bubbled for a few minutes, return the beef and any drained juices to the pan and stir through.

Now pour over as much of the wine as you’ve been able to resist, plus about 100ml of water. The idea here is to get the meat bobbing up from the liquid, but not completely covered. Bring to the boil and use a spoon to scrape the caramelised cooking juices from the bottom of the pan - that’s where much of the flavour’s hiding!

Heat the oven to 150C/fan 130C/gas 2. We’ll cook our stew in a cartouche. Tear off a square of foil or greaseproof paper slightly larger than the casserole and arrange it in the pan so it covers the top of the stew. Trim away any excess and cook for three hours.

At the end of the time, check your stew. The sauce should be rich and fairly thick. If it looks too watery, don’t panic, all is not lost! Simply remove the beef and vegetables with a slotted spoon, and set them aside. Now you can cook the sauce over a high heat until it thickens to the consistency you’re aiming for. Return the beef and vegetables to the pan, reheat if necessary and you’re ready to serve an authentic taste of rustic France. Serve it with freshly baked French bread and a lovely bottle of Pinot Noir or Gamay.

Prendre plaisir!

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Discover Lacock...

7

Local Life October | November | December | 2017

Mto suspend their converse and regard me with interest, tankards frozen in their short journey from weather-paled table to stubble-rimmed lips. I stepped down with little regard for their attention, such a scene being more than commonplace in the autumn-shadowed village of Lacock, that clustered hamlet which gilds the golden downs of Wiltshire.

Harry Potter and the Half-Hour TripNo, we haven’t enlisted Jane Austen to write this issue’s “Discover” article, but a visit to Lacock, less than half an hour away from Wadswick Green is likely to have you speaking a little more graciously and fighting the impulse to straighten your cravat or adjust your parasol. Either that or bellow “Expelliarmus!” at a terrified visitor risking an ill-judged selfie.

Lacock is one of Wiltshire’s most unspoilt villages. So unspoilt, in fact, that those who remember the BBC’s superb production of Pride and Prejudice in the mid-nineties will quickly recognise Meryton, quarters for the militia in Jane Austen’s masterpiece. More recently, the village provided backdrops for Cranford and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. It’s not difficult to see why; the narrow streets are lined by spectacularly authentic stone cottages, while the George Inn has stood on West Street since the 14th century.

We’ll come to Lacock’s formal visitor destinations in a moment, but first let’s take a stroll through its streets. Coming from Corsham, we approach the village from the north. Park the car and wander deeper in along the broad pavements of West Street, past the aforementioned George on the right. Make a mental note that this might be a good place to return to for lunch.

The cottages to each side are predominantly terraced, but

delightfully varied in design, outlook and floor levels. Steps on

the left climb up to a front door nearly four feet above street

level, while the cottage opposite seems to sink into the ground,

its far windows at little more than knee height. Such are the

delights of vernacular architecture.

The road curves sharply to the left at the memorial to the fallen

of WW1. As you pause for a moment, spare a glance for the

beautifully preserved half-timbered cottage that stands by the

junction. Consider that it was already ancient when the memorial

was built, almost a century ago.

Take a left turn into East Street. It’s a narrow lane,

shadowed by huddled buildings that include a fine wagon arch

to the left. A short walk along brings us to the tithe barn on our right. The doors

are usually open, so you can step inside and look up at the splendidly restored and

preserved raised-cruck roof. It’s unclear whether this was actually a tithe barn, though

the proximity of the abbey does lend credence to the title popularly conferred upon

it. Whether or not it was built for the support of the Church, it’s a fascinating and

unusually complete example of fourteenth century rural architecture.

Attached to the northern end of the barn is the village lockup, again, an unusually

complete and unspoilt specimen. This one is a relatively recent addition, dating

from the late eighteenth century, by which time their use was already declining.

It’s unlikely it ever incarcerated any deeply gored villains, but many a village drunk

must have passed an uncomfortable night inside its draughty walls.

Returning to the High Street, we turn left to pass the Manger Barn. This isn’t

usually open to the public, though tours are often available. You can enquire

at the National Trust shop to find out what’s planned.

y descent from the carriage caused the stalwart harvesters seated outside the George Inn

West Street continues south here, but let’s follow the curve of the main road into High Street, past the stable block that neighbours another magnificent pre-Jacobean house. On your left is the delightfully traditional schoolhouse, while on the right, the Lacock food store is usually well-stocked with local produce. A little further along, the National Trust shop looks inviting, but that’s best left until we’ve visited a couple of Lacock’s historic features.

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Fox Talbot MuseumA few yards further along, we come to Lacock’s most significant attraction. Here is where we find the entrance to the abbey and its grounds, along with the captivating Fox Talbot Museum. There’s always something going on here, though the grounds and the grand house are justification enough for making the short trip. This autumn they’re tipping a pointy hat to the village’s Harry Potter connection with the Sorcerer’s Shield family trail.

If you prefer to stay indoors, it’s worth exploring Fox Talbot’s pioneering photographic work. Until the end of October, the abbey is hosting a spectacular virtual reality experience that recreates one of the first photographic exhibitions, staged by the British Association for the Advancement of Science in 1839.

Lacock AbbeyThe abbey itself is a rare survivor of Henry VIII’s closure - and Thomas Cromwell’s destruction - of so many historic church buildings. It was dissolved as a convent in 1539 and purchased from the crown the following year by one William Sharington, for the princely sum of £730. He converted it into a comfortable country house, in the process demolishing its church and Lady Chapel. He was responsible for the somewhat out-of-place octagonal tower that juts from the abbey corner, along with the opulent Tudor windows and ornate chimneys. Though the building has become more of a monument to Tudor privilege than to religious contemplation, the 15th century cloisters survive and provide a quiet, thoughtful walk in their shade.

The abbey suffered further “improvements” from 1714, when John Ivory Talbot inherited the house. He made several alterations to change many of the rooms to the fashionable mock gothic, even building an impressive arch in the gardens and converting part of the eastern cloister into a “ruin”.

Lacock Abbey’s architecture today is anything but pure, but this is where much of its fascination lies. We can see it as a living record of changing fashions and political attitudes. Here is the eternal stamp of 800 years of history, all to be seen in a single day.

October | November | December | 2017 Local life

Discover Lacock... 11

Shopping October | November | December | 2017

‘Howard Hare’Frith Bronze CollectionWadswick Country Store£93.95

Paintings of Bath 2018 CalendarBy Peter Brownwww.peterbrownneac.com£10.00

some gorgeous

finds for your

home...

artinteriors&

Casa Round Framed MirrorLeekes of Melksham£80.00

Dashing Pheasants Framed Artby Voyage MaisonWadswick Country Store£54.95

Beige Throw with Bee Hive PatternPaprika Gifts, Chippenham£51.50

Top Hat Pendant LightRossiters of Bath£49.95

Robert Welch Arden Candlestick Leekes of Melksham£44.00

Biba Cora VaseLarge 45cmJolly’s of Bath£35.00

Biba Glass Gold Fan CoastersSet of 4Jolly’s of Bath£18.00

Pheasant Salt and Pepper SetWadswick Country Store£19.95

‘Did you say you’re going on a course?’ asked my daughter, sounding greatly surprised. ‘Is Dad going too?’ ‘Yes’, I replied ‘it’s the first course I’ve been on for years, and obviously it’s not about my previous working life but a new interest we are trying out! We are doing an ‘art on the iPad’ course at Marlborough Summer School - in July.’

This was a conversation I also had with various friends and neighbours and as it got nearer I became rather fearful about whether it really was such good idea! However, we’d paid our money and purchased the course booklet, so off we went early one Monday morning armed with an iPad and a stylus (only £4.95 at Smiths!) each. It took us about forty five minutes to get there, and having worried about where to park, I realised that there would be no difficulty as a huge field of parked cars came into view as we rounded the final corner of our journey and there was still plenty of room for us!

This is the 43rd year of the Summer School - it runs for four weeks, and about 1,000 people attend each weekThe selection of courses is amazing, from sports of varying sorts, to literature, music, poetry, painting, mindfulness and well being and computers. Our course was for beginners, but we discovered that most of the class were skilled at drawing or painting,

but less used to working on the iPad, whereas we were definitely beginner artists, but did manage to use the iPad with confidence! It did mean we thought everyone else’s pictures were far better than ours!

In order to create our art we downloaded two apps which enabled us to draw pictures either in black and white or in colour. The colour app in particular was amazing as it had about a dozen different tools - eg brushes, pens, crayons etc - which could also be adapted to do as you wanted, from drawing a fine line to filling the entire background with a colour of your choosing. It was also possible to ‘collect’ pictures from the internet and use them as your imagination suggested. We also learnt how to use photos with the app and how to make a collage of different pictures, collected either from our own ‘gallery’, the internet or our ipad photo collections. And all this without the need of a paint brush, paints, palette, water or an easel. Just right for sitting in an armchair and painting!

Other residents at Wadswick Village have been on the Summer School in previous years too and apparently it is well remembered for its delicious doughnuts, muffins, and fruit at morning break time. Certainly, having had to get up early enough to get there by 9am we were more than ready to sample the refreshments, despite their sugary content! However, to avoid the early starts, it is possible to stay in the college for the week and we understand from our neighbour, June Game, who did so, that the food and accommodation were good. We didn’t come across her during the week; we assumed she must be too busy doing her painting course

and maybe ate her doughnuts in a different venue. We caught up with her once the week was over and shared our art experiences.

June was also a first time attendee at the Summer School. She was impressed by the efficiency of the whole organisation and the wide range of courses on offer from ages 6 to infinity. She noted the different nationalities of the other participants, many families bringing young children to do an activity whilst freeing them to enjoy other courses at the same time. June spoke to many people from all over the world, including Australia, China, South Korea, America and many Europeans. She also enjoyed a highly amusing talk one evening by Ann Widdecombe, who has the wonderful ability to laugh at herself and at her antics on Strictly Come Dancing!

Her painting course (where all materials were provided) was highly structured and they were expected to keep up a fast pace - no slacking allowed! On the last afternoon the tutors mounted an impressive display of all the various art groups’ work. It gave the opportunity for participants to think about what they would like to try next year.

So would we go again? I shall look forward to seeing the Summer School brochure which comes out in December to see what to do next, even though I still have much to work on with my art on the iPad! I have heard that there is a course on singing songs from the musicals in a large choir, and this rather appeals, or I could learn to play bridge maybe. But I need to study next year’s programme and hope to find something that really appeals to me and that I want to learn. Perhaps I’ll see you there - eating doughnuts?

Art Courses at Marlborough Summer School

October | November | December | 2017 Resident Article

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Moyra Evans

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OctoberThroughout October

FILM: The Mountain Between Us

Stranded after a tragic plane crash, two strangers must forge a connection to survive the extreme elements of a remote snow covered mountain. When they realise help is not coming, they embark on a perilous journey across hundreds of miles of wilderness, pushing one another to endure and discovering strength they never knew possible.

The film is directed by Academy Award nominee Hany Abu-Assad and stars Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and Golden Globe winner Idris Elba.

Odeon, Trowbridge Various times From £9.75_____________________________________________

Saturday 21st Octoberand Sunday 22nd October

EXHIBITION: U3A Photography Exhibition

The Bradford on Avon U3A Photographic Group is holding its first ever Photographic Exhibition.

The U3A (University of the Third Age) is a national organisation for people no longer in full-time employment. Local U3As are learning cooperatives that draw upon the knowledge and skills of their members.

Bradford on Avon Photographic Group was formed in the spring of 2013 and is made up of 30 members who meet monthly. The group is open to all those with a keen interest in photography regardless of equipment and experience. In addition to monthly meetings, visits to places such as wildlife centres, gardens, historic buildings, and exhibitions are arranged, plus various workshops.

West Barn, Bradford on Avon 10.00am - 6.00pm _____________________________________________

24th - 29th October THEATRE: The Railway Children

E. Nesbit’s classic novel The Railway Children is brought thrillingly to life in a stunning new stage production.

When their father mysteriously disappears with two strangers one evening, the lives of Roberta, Peter and Phyllis are turned upside down. Forced to leave the comforts of their privileged London life in exchange for a simple rural existence, this fractured family soon discover new friendships that will change their lives forever.

With beautiful period costumes, digital projections and ingenious designs, this new production promises an uplifting theatrical experience for all ages, packed with intrigue and adventure.

Theatre Royal, Bath

7.00pm Tuesday-Friday £19.503.30pm Saturday (Matinee) £21.007.00pm Saturday £21.005.00pm Sunday £21.00_____________________________________________

Your new-look guide to what’s on in the local area. These are suggestions for you to explore in your own time and are in addition to the Wadswick Green organised events, which you can now find in your separate monthly ‘What’s on at Wadswick’ newsletter.

What’s On

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What’s On October | November | December | 2017

Until 29th October EXHIBITION: 1920s Jazz Age Fashion & Photographs

America in the 1920s created a cultural shockwave that reverberated around the world, creating icons on an industrial scale - from stars of the silver screen to skyscrapers.

This worldwide phenomenon will be explored in 1920s Jazz Age: Fashion and Photographs, which examines how the world saw - and sees - the US as a global taste-maker and trend setter.

The exhibition which is organised by The Fashion and Textile Museum, will also include the work of photographer James Abbe, whose portraits present a candid commentary on early twentieth-century celebrity.

The American Museum, Bath 10.30am - 5.00pm £12.00_____________________________________________

November2nd - 12th November FILMBATH (Bath Film Festival)

FilmBath Festival (previously Bath Film Festival) screens the best new and upcoming films from around the world with a stimulating and eclectic programme of films, workshops and film events in venues across Bath and beyond.

The 2017 FilmBath Festival programme will include: Preview Features, F-Rated Films, Documentary Features, Family Films, Art & Design Features, Sci Fi Features, IMDb Awards and Shorts. Check the website for details and listings: www.filmbath.org.uk

Various venues in Bath_____________________________________________

Sunday 5th November WALK: Ancient Avebury Landscape Walk

Avebury has long been recognised as an archaeological treasure trove.

The Waden Hill circuit takes in some of the Neolithic monuments which make up this ancient and intriguing landscape. The volunteer guide will help you to unlock their past by explaining the history of the landscape as you walk..

As a World Heritage Site, the archaeologically rich landscape of Avebury has long been recognised as holding the key to our past. You can discover more of the landscape’s history

on this walk of around 2 miles which takes in part of Avebury stone circle, West Kennet Avenue and Silbury Hill. With beautiful vistas and wide open skies you can also enjoy the stunning scenery.

Avebury 1.30pm £8.00_____________________________________________

23rd November - 10th December SHOPPING: Bath Christmas Market

Looking for a truly fantastic festive shopping experience? Each year Bath is transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s paradise, as over 200 chalets packed full of gorgeous Christmas gifts line the streets.

Soak up the sights, smells and sounds as you wander around the market; we guarantee the aroma of warming mulled wine and freshly baked mince pies, enjoyed with a generous sprinkling of cheering carols that will get even the biggest of humbugs into the Christmas spirit!

More than 80% of the chalets are businesses from the South West and over 60 chalets are brand new for 2017. The chalets are a large part of what makes the Bath Christmas Market so special, with each one carefully selected to give you the best shopping offer possible. From handmade wooden toys and crafted candles, to tasty cheeses and funky jewellery, you’ll be able to find something for everyone on your Christmas gifts list.

Bath City CentreMon, Tues & Wed: 10.00am - 7.00pmThurs, Fri & Sat: 10.00am - 8:30pmSunday: 10.00am - 6.00pm_____________________________________________

DecemberSunday 3rd December THEATRE: A Christmas Carol

On Christmas Eve, the most magical night of the year, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is whisked away on a

terrifying journey through the past and into the future, accompanied by three fearsome ghosts determined to make him realise the true meaning of Christmas. Charles Dickens’ classic ghost story is brought alive in this most traditional of productions, complete with beautiful period costume, song, dance and a magnificent musical score. Join critically acclaimed theatre company Chapterhouse, as Scrooge’s frozen heart begins to melt and he finally embraces the festive spirit in this most Christmassy of Christmas tales.

Chapterhouse Theatre Company is thrilled to be touring this stunning adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic festive tale, A Christmas Carol. Especially adapted for the stage by award-winning writer Laura Turner.

The Neeld Hall, Chippenham4.00pm - 6.00pm £10.00_____________________________________________

Thursday 7th Decemberand Thursday 14th December

WALK: Winter Warmer Walks

Why not leave the crowds behind and join archaeologist Dr Nick Snashall for a winter ramble around the stone circles. Followed by Christmas liqueur and mince pies in the National Trust shop where you’ll have the chance to shop with a 10% discount.

Avebury10.30am and 12.30pm £15.00_____________________________________________

Friday 8th December

BALLET: Vienna Festival Presents Sleeping Beauty

A classic fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning choreography, beautiful costumes all combine to portray the struggle between good and evil.

Following the traditional tale of Sleeping Beauty, this ballet is sure to enchant audiences of all ages.

The Neeld Hall, Chippenham7.30pm - 9.00pm £16.50_____________________________________________

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Shopping October | November | December | 2017

17

We are very fortunate here at Wadswick Green, that we have so many clubs for various interests. Having lots of passionate, dedicated people living or working here to share their time and expertise certainly helps too.

Here we shall look at some of the hobby clubs we currently run and how you can get involved.

Craft GroupI’m Dawn and I run the Craft group every week. I took up my lifelong interest in crafts when I retired 8/9 years ago, having gained a scholarship to Plymouth Art College in my youth. On leaving, I worked for a company who specialised in handmade lampshades… (they undertook an order for the Queen Mother at Windsor Castle.) My main areas of interest are beadwork, origami and card work. I produce my own artwork on the computer which I print out. In all areas I am self taught and I now run several workshops and enjoy teaching others.

For Christmas, residents are making cards, Christmas tree decorations, handmade gift boxes and beaded stars.

The craft workshop runs Tuesdays 1.30pm and 4.30pm, there is a charge per workshop + materials, max of 10 people.

Art GroupI’m Sheila and I run the Wadswick Green Art Group, which is a small, friendly group of residents who get together once a fortnight to paint.

I have been an Art teacher and as well as doing my own painting, I’m also willing to give some help to any beginners.

We meet Mondays between 2.00pm and 4.00pm at the tables at the far end of the Greenhouse Restaurant. The date is noted on the Wadswick Green calendar with a letter ‘A’.

Most of us paint in watercolour using our own materials and bring objects or images to inspire us. We usually number 10 to 12 people and we help each other if needed.

I have found inspiration in the area around Wadswick, from the woods, walls and wildlife.

I went to Bristol School of Art for many years as a mature student, attending painting, drawing and enamelling courses.

I think it is reassuring and stimulating to get together with other painters, who often have not painted for many years and just need a kick start to get the brushes out again!

Hobby Clubs at Wadswick Green

October | November | December | 2017 Shopping

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forher

‘Ta Da!’ Gold/Beige Cosmetic BagPaprika Gifts, Chippenham£9.50

Coulson Macleod Retirement MugPaprika Gifts, Chippenham£10.50

English Rose Gift BoxQuintessentially English, Lacock£14.00

Schoffel Tenies Ladies Bobble HatWadswick Country Store£34.95

Barbour Tartan Coloured Stretch Belt with Gift BoxWadswick Country Store£36.95

Barbour New Tartan Collection Ipad CoverWadswick Country Store£39.95

Barbour Tartan Mini Tote BagWadswick Country Store£89.95

Beard BalmRossiters of Bath£10.00

Daines & HathawayChestnut Leather Hip FlaskRossiters of Bath£45.00

Silver Hammered Heavy Fused BraceletWatlings, Lacock£139.00

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Stuck for gift ideas? Maybe you’ll find something here for the special people in your life...

White Stag LargePaprika Gifts, Chippenham£9.80

Alphabet Dog PuzzlePaprika Gifts, Chippenham£20.99

Casa Crystal Ball Hanging DecorationLeekes of Melksham£4.00

Siku 1:50 John Deere Forestry Tractor Model ToyWadswick Country Store£19.95

Joules Junior Percyful Character PurseWadswick Country Store£9.95

Cyril SlothBy JellycatRossiters of Bath£26.00

Peter Rabbit Skittles SetPaprika Gifts, Chippenham£19.00

Shopping October | November | December | 2017

LED Firwood ChurchLeekes of Melksham£17.00

forhome

Premier Berry & Leaf Heart WreathLeekes

of Melksham£20.00

Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh Incense SetQuintessentially English, Lacock£27.50

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Tipsy Cake Christmas...for

A

I’m something of a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not getting sentimental about Val Doonican singing I saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus, and if suspiciously tall “children” want to gabble Wewishyouamerrychristmasananappynewyear-knock-knock-giveusaquid, that’s no skin off my wallet. No, it’s not the rosy memories of urbane Irishmen wearing three sheeploads of geometrically patterned wool that beckon me, nor the half-broken voices of pubescent teenagers at my front door that start me bemoaning those lost days.

But when we get to the part about eating and drinking too much. Now, there, you had me at “Hiccup”. I’m not advocating pigging out on liqueur chocolates, or finally braving that tin of Dundee shortcake you won in a raffle, though. You see, in my book, if you made it yourself, it can’t count as gluttony. So, let’s make the perfect Christmas treat. Something made for sharing. Then eat it all ourselves.

What do we need to achieve perfection? Well, chocolate, obviously. That pretty much goes without saying, but what else? Did I hear someone shout “alcohol you idiot”? No? OK, that must have been me then. But you’re going to love this, trust me.

Krzysztof’s Outrageous Chocolate and Whisky CakeImportant: Please ensure that any scales you possess are disabled for at least two weeks after making this cake.

What you’ll need:

For the cake• 340g plain flour• 525g golden caster sugar• 128g cocoa powder• 2 ¼ tsp baking powder• 2 ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda• 3 large free range eggs• 375ml full fat milk• 188ml groundnut oil• 3 tsp vanilla extract• 375ml boiling water

For the whisky syrup• 100ml water• 100g caster sugar• 50ml whiskey

For the buttercream• 150g unsalted butter at room temperature• 350g icing sugar• 4 tbsp condensed milk• 2 tbsp whisky, or to taste (what the heck, it’s Christmas)

For the ganache• 250g dark chocolate, chopped• 250ml double cream• 100g light brown muscovado sugar

How to do itWe start by baking the cake. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C/350 degrees F/gas mark 4. Grease and line three 20cm cake tins.

Sift the flour, caster sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda into a mixing bowl and whisk for one minute to combine them thoroughly.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs then add the milk and groundnut oil. Pour this into the dry mixture and whisk for two to three minutes until smooth and well combined.

Keep the whisk running and add the boiling water to your mixture a little at a time until you have a smooth, extremely liquid batter. Pour this into your prepared cake tins and bake them in the centre of the oven for 25 - 35 minutes, or until the tops are firm and a skewer or toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. When they’re ready, remove them from the oven and put them to one side.

Now we can make the whisky syrup. The kitchen is about to smell wonderful.Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Simmer for a couple of minutes until the sugar has dissolved fully. Add the whisky and simmer for one minute more while you enjoy the fumes. When the room’s stopped spinning, remove from the heat.

Trickle the syrup over the top of each cake while still warm then set aside to cool completely. Don’t eat any of it yet, however strong the temptation. Oh, all

right, you can have that bit that fell off.

While the cake is cooling, let’s make the butter cream. Make sure your butter is nice and soft. Look, I did say room temperature, didn’t I, so why are you only just taking it out of the fridge now? Honestly, you’re your own worst enemy.

In a stand mixer or using an electric whisk, beat the butter until pale and fluffy. Sift in the icing sugar and whisk to combine, then add the condensed milk. Continue to beat until light and fluffy, slowly incorporating the whisky until fully combined. No, if you keep tasting it there’ll be none left for the cake.

We haven’t used the chocolate yet, so forget the whisky for a minute and we’ll make the ganache.

Place the chopped chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl.

Heat the cream and sugar until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to the boil and simmer for one minute.

Remove the cream from the heat and allow to stand for one minute. This is important because pouring it directly over the chocolate will cause it to split. Once it has rested, pour over the chocolate and stir until smooth and glossy, using a rubber spatula or whisk.Set aside for thirty minutes or until it has cooled to a spreadable consistency.

OK, if there’s anything left after all your “taste testing”, it’s time to assemble our masterpiece…

Smear a small amount of whisky buttercream onto a serving plate or cake stand. Place one round of cake on top. Slather over half the quantity of whisky buttercream, top with a second round of cake and do some more slathering. Good word, that. Says it all. Top with the final round of cake and smooth any buttercream that has squidged out at the sides. Yes, go on then, but only what’s on the palette knife.

Dollop (another good word. I love English) your ganache on top of the cake then use a spatula or palette knife to spread it down and round the edges. Use a slightly heated palette knife for a smooth finish or do what I did and swirl the ganache for a more rustic, flicked effect. After the first slice, you won’t care what it looked like anyway.

You can keep this cake in an airtight container for a couple of days. But, let’s face it, you won’t.

21

Recipes October | November | December | 2017

Every year, Dorothy House runs a Light up a Life appeal and they would like to invite you to sponsor a light on their Christmas tree at Winsley. The tree will sparkle with hundreds of lights, in tribute to those we remember at Christmas, and will be lit 24 hours a day from 29 November until 7 January (though is best viewed as light falls from around 4pm).

If you would like to take part this year by sponsoring a light, please download a form from the website https://www.dorothyhouse.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising/lual/, and return it to the address provided with your donation. They will send you a card with the name or names of those you wish to remember.

Dorothy House are also holding ‘Services of Light’ across the communities they serve.

The closest service to Wadswick Green will be at St Bartholomew’s Church in Corsham on Friday 8th December.

Our annual Services of Light, part of the Light up a Life appeal, have become a special part of the Dorothy House calendar. Held in the weeks running up to Christmas, the services take place in venues across the area served by the Hospice. The services all start at 6pm, last around 45 minutes and include readings, carols and the opportunity to light a candle in memory of a loved one. The services are open to everyone.

Light up a life...

October | November | December | 2017 Dorothy House

22

Social October | November | December | 2017

23

Across1 U S space group (1,1,1,1)3 Court game (10)10 Consequently (9)11 Female sovereign (5)12 Survive (7)13 Bowling pin (7)14 Skin eruption (4)15 Pachyderms (9)19 Sue (9)21 German Mrs (4)

24 Passage (7)27 Surrey commuter village (7)28 Trembling poplar (5)29 Mouth organ (9)30 Science of numbers (10)31 Undiluted (4)

The launch of Croquet on the Lawn has certainly got off to a flying start! The event is proving very popular with everyone here at Wadswick Green and it seems the Pimms is going down very well too!

Let’s hope we can get another event in before the cold, wet winter weather is upon us.

Here are some photos of the fun from the last Croquet event.

THE SOCIAL HUB

New ResidentsWe’d like to extend the customary Wadswick welcome to Martin & Mary Jones who moved in to Birch Close in July, followed by Brian Edwards and David Clarke who have both moved in to their new homes in the Pavilion Suites. Then in August we welcomed Tony and Sylvia Billett, Christine Masters and Jenny O’Donnell to their new homes in Birch Close and Rosie Mellor who has made her new home in Rowan Lane.

CrosswordPuzzle

Solutions for last issue’s puzzle. Across: 9 Obese, 10 Amazement, 11 Relic, 12 Intrinsic, 13 Own, 14 Nahum, 15 Glassware, 16 Shrub, 18 Eagle, 22 Avalanche, 25 Forgo, 27 Net, 28 Employees, 29 Wrong, 30 Undermine, 31 Aisle.

Down: 1 Soprano, 2 Wealth, 3 Newcomer, 4 Saying, 5 Last page, 6 Genius, 7 Persuade, 8 Sticker, 16 Stampede, 17 Bacteria, 19 Gift wrap, 20 Gaseous, 21 Roughen, 23 Aboard, 24 Ensued, 26 Rhoose.

Down1 Belonging to a country (8)2 Enticement (9)4 Papal (9)5 Leg joints (5)6 Mexican liquor (7)7 Proficient (5)8 Beam over a door (6)9 Started (5)16 Medley (3-6)17 Frighten, usually by violence (9)18 Take away (8)20 Squeeze together (7)22 Las Vegas setting (6)23 Racecourse (5)25 Island in the Bay of Naples (5)26 Resort lake in both California and 22 down (5)

The Pound Arts Centre www.poundarts.org.uk 01249 701628

Wiltshire Music Centre www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk 01225 860100

Theatre Royal, Bath www.theatreroyal.org.uk 01225 448844

Roman Baths www.romanbaths.co.uk

Holburne Museum, Bathwww.holburne.org

Victoria Art Gallery www.victoriagal.org.uk

Lacock www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-talbot-museum-and-village

Locals cities and towns to visit:BathDevizesWellsSalisburyTetburyMalmesbury

Garden Centres:

Lowden www.lowdengardencentre.com

Whitehall www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

No1 Royal Crescentwww.no1royalcrescent.org.uk01225 428126

Museum of Bath Architecture museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk

Corsham Court www.corsham-court.co.uk

Bowood House & Gardens www.bowood.org

Abbey House Gardens, Malmesbury www.abbeyhousegardens.co.uk

Westonbirt Arboretum www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-5Y4F5K

Visit Bath www.visitbath.co.uk

Visit Wiltshire www.visitwiltshire.co.uk

Farm Shops:

Allington Farm Shop, ChippenhamNeston Farm Shop, AtworthHartley Farm Shop, Bradford-on-Avon

Local independent shops:

Green Ginger, health & wellbeing productsThe Deli at CorshamToby Haynes Family Butcher, CorshamStokes Greengrocers, CorshamThe Corsham Book Shop

www.wadswickgreen.co.ukDire

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