Advertiser Winter Edition 2011

| The Advertiser | page 1 |TheAdvertiser

| Winter 2011 |

Essential shops & services with everything you need – all wonderfully local!

Inside this month:52 Things to Do…Festive Food Reviews:Five Alls, Woodman & The Trout InnFun Quiz at The Portwell AngelChristmas Count DownChristmas WreathsAnd More

Promoting local business, trade and services. Advertise! Be Seen! Call Lou 01367 246136

| The Advertiser | page 2 |

| Winter 2011 |

Advertise in the Lechlade, Burford and Fairford Advertiser! Call Amanda01367 246137 / 07525004830


Faringdon Chamber of CommerceThe next meeting of theFaringdon Chamber ofCommerce will be onMonday 9th January 2012.The Chamber will be

discussing the possibility of introducing a customer loyaltyscheme for Faringdon businesses with Trudy Godfrey ofthe Vale of White Horse District Council. If you would liketo find out more about this please come along to themeeting or contact Chamber Secretary, Jane Haynes on01367 246130 or email [email protected]

WHO’S NEXT?

Call Trish: 01367 820060Cowleaze Farm, Woolstone, Oxon SN7 7QS

Email: [email protected]

New BusinessesWatch out for two new businesses opening in Faringdon over the next fewweeks...VIP Hair & Beauty Studio in Station Road and The-icafe.com in LondonStreet.

Faringdon CommunityCollegeThe 6th Form Common Room atFaringdon Community College is indesperate need of refurbishment. The6th Form has expanded rapidly over thelast few years and now has around 150students. The students want to re-decorate, replace the carpet and re-furnish the Common Room. TravisPerkins have generously offered to supply the decorating materials, thestudents are now looking for other benefactors to provide floor coveringand furniture.If you can help, you should contact Head Girl, Amanda Gatward at thecollege or by email to [email protected] .

Shopping PartiesFor those of you whoprefer to do yourshopping from thecomfort of your ownhome – PresentationGifts Ltd are nowoffering Presentation at Home parties and pop up shops. Both of theseinitiatives have proved to be very popular and if you would like to book a partyor pop-up shop, or get more information, please call in to Presentation Gifts inLondon Street or contact Denise on 01367 241111.

52 Things to do…Faringdon Chamber of Commerce is proud tosupport “52 Things to do … far from theMadding Beaches” – an exciting new bookpromoting the Vale; attractions, things to do andthe countryside is going to be launched on 10th

December 2011. Read more about this new bookon page 10 and order your copy as a fantastic giftat Christmas.

Park Free for Two HoursResidents and visitors to the Vale are set to receive an early Christmas presentafter it was confirmed, subject to scrutiny, that they will be able to park for freefor two hours every day from this December. It is hoped that the introductionof two hours free parking will provide a boost to businesses. Under the newarrangements the charging period will change to between 8am and 6pm.During this time people wishing to park will need to display a valid ticket,including during the free two hour period.

Welcome to…The Chamber would like to wish Jill at Uptown Fashions in LondonStreet the very best of luck with her new shop.


Faringdon Dramatic SocietyPresents for your entertainment

Directed by Debbie Lock

Friday 27th Jan 7.30pmSaturday 28th Jan 2.30pm Matinee, 7.30pm Evening

Friday 3rd Feb 7.30pmSaturday 4th Feb 2.30pm Matinee, 7.30pm Evening

Faringdon Junior School Hall, Gloucester Street, Faringdon(Parking in Gloucester Street Car Park)

Tickets £8 and £6 (Concessions) available online fromwww.faringdondramatic.org.uk

from The Nut Tree, Corn Market, Faringdonor on the door.


The Five Alls in Filkins offers contemporaryBritish food in a traditional Cotswold’s Inn.

Chef owner, Duncan Ray, formerly withHeston Blumethal at The Fat Duck in Bray,produces a weekly changing menu and isproud to source 90% of ingredients from

within a 10 mile radius of Filkins.

Set lunch menu £15 for 2 coursesA la carte menu available in the evenings.

Restaurant open:Tuesday - Saturday & Sunday Lunch

Sample our varied wine selectionor enjoy a pint of real ale.Bar Open 7 days a week

THEFIVE ALLS

PUB • RESTAURANT • ROOMS

The Five Alls, Filkins, Nr Lechlade, GL7 3JQVisit : www.thefivealls.comEmail: [email protected]: 01367 860875

Food ReviewThe Five Alls, Filkins, Nr. Lechlade

The moment you walk through the door at The FiveAlls, everything about it feels right.

From the flagstone floors, exposed timber ceilingsand Cotswold stone walls, you get an instantpremonition that somehow you are in for a treat!

We had heard good feedback regarding the newproprietor - head chef- Duncan Ray and his partnerManoli Gonzalez – manager. Both have vastexperience in restaurant and catering, Duncanhaving spent many years working in Michelin starrestaurants in England and France, includingHeston Blumenthal’s “Fat Duck”.

Manoli has worked in 5 star restaurants in Mexico,Monte Carlo, Spain and England.

Whilst browsing the menu, we were given anaperitif of “Devils on Horseback”, I have not hadthis for years and had forgotten how scrummy theyare. For those of you that don’t know what these sweetand savoury little combos are, basically it’s pitted prunewrapped in bacon and skewered with a cocktail stick tohold it all together. The salty bacon with the sweetnessof the prune works perfectly.

Starters of pan fried scallops, caramelisedcauliflower puree, ceps, raisins, cumin caramel -risotto of beetroot, goat’s cheese croquette. Oneword - divine!

To follow, our choices were breast of loomswoodduck, spiced fig, chestnut, grapes – fillets of lemonsole, roast shallot, thyme and garlic. How thecombinations of food worked together wasfantastic, combined with the perfect wine choice,recommended by Manoli.

To be honest, desserts have never been my thing. Igenerally struggle with selection, normally optingfor the boring old cheeseboard. Boy, I’m glad Ididn’t on this occasion, the flavour and textures oforange rice pudding, orange curd, salted buttercaramel, peanuts, dark chocolate ice cream andallspice was gorgeous.

The Five Alls have managed to create what is bestdescribed as British contemporary cuisine at itsabsolute finest!




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To discuss your personalgarden requirements phone:01865 250372 or 07773333531

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Christmas Countdown

Ho Ho Ho my goodness it's Christmas again and what better way to keep the family and descending visitors entertained than with our bumpercrop of top treats happening in December.

First up it's our very own Festive Faringdon on Saturday 3rd with Santa dropping by at 4pm on his sleigh. Don't forget to visit the FaringdonPre-School Christmas Fayre at the Catholic Church Hall behind Budgens, where Santa will be relaxing from his busy schedule in his grotto andthere will be stalls, games and prizes tro be won!

On Sunday 4th, Sunningwell Christmas Craft Fair in Sunningwell Village Hall, Abingdon, will have a wide variety of hand crafted stalls includingwood turned products, jewellery, photography, stained glass, textiles, edible festive treats and more, from 10am - 4pm.

Or you could head out to Millets Farm in Frilford where children can experience a magical Christmas wonderland and visit Santa and hisreindeer while grown-ups can peruse the Christmas Food and Gift Marquee selling bespoke hampers, fine beers, homemade cakes and uniquestocking fillers.

For weekday excursions, The Museum of Oxford at Oxford Town Hall, St Aldates, is open every day with its current exhibition inspired byChristmas Past and Presents. The exhibition includes the Christmas Craft Creation Station where you can make and take home angelic angels,a fantastic Father Christmas or create colourful Christmas crackers. Santa, who gets around, will also be in the Brunel Shopping Centre,Swindon, in his grotto between Boots and Marks and Spencer, every day until Christmas eve. If the kids need a breakfrom shopping they can see Santa and his elves for £4.50 and receive a gift.

Saturday 10th is the Buckland Christmas Festival at Buckland Memorial Hall from 2.30pm - 5pm. There will be Carolsinging, a Christmas Market, gifts, competitions and children's activities, plenty to keep everyone happy. On the 10th,Santa and his elves will also be riding in a special grotto bus at the Oxford Bus Museum where children can receivea special present and have a ride on the jolly bus.

Roves Farm, near Highworth, is also open at weekends throughout December, and has a host of festive activities tojoin in with including a dress-up nativity play, an elves craft workshop, a magical grotto and donkeys to meet, alongwith all the usual animals.

And on Christmas Eve, the Empire cinema in Greenbridge retail park, Swindon, will be showing the film 'Nativity' at10.30am as part of the Empire Juniors season and tickets are only £1.25 each.

Carol Keegan


Restaurant ReviewRestaurant Review

Faringdon Branch Lechlade Branch

Crowdy & Rose Solicitorsof Faringdon and Lechlade

We have a wealth of local knowledgeand are an established part of the local community

providing for the needs of our clients

2 Market Place, Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 7HWTel: 01367 240285

High Street, Lechlade, Gloucestershire GL7 3AETel: 01367 252644

[email protected]

Established within the local community since 1790

The Woodman Inn and RestaurantFernham, www.thewoodmaninn.net

If you are passing through Fernham, take a quick glanceat the Woodman Inn car park, I guarantee it will we bepacked with cars, this is always a good sign if you areconsidering dining out.Based on this we decided to give it a try.The choice of food and wine on offer is both extensiveand impressive. The decor has been tastefully carriedout, creating an extremely warm and inviting vibe.For starters we opted for potted garlic mushrooms,topped with parmesan & herb brioche - homemadecrab cakes with sweet chilli, spring onion, corianderdressing & mixed leaf salad.Followed by baked halibut fillet with baby spinach,caper mash potatoes & spicy tomato mussel sauce - 8ozsirloin steak with king prawns, garlic butter, mixed leafsalad & hand cut chips.The presentation on each plate was immaculate, withmore than generous portions of superb tasting food. Onoccasions, a really good meal can be badly let down bypoor table service; this is certainly not the case at theWoodman. The staff are extremely professional, always

on-hand when required, but never obtrusive. We didn’thave much room left for dessert but, the lure of summerberries trifle proved too hard to resist, absolutely deli-cious!If you are planning to book a meal for eight or more, theWoodman provides a courtesy minibus service, within a10 mile radius. The cost is £5.00 each way, donated to

“Help for Heroes”Offering quality cuisine, value for money in lovely sur-roundings, the Woodman has become one of the busi-est pubs in the area.On our recent experience, it is easy to see why!


ALSO


Treat Your Dog This Autumn at RubiesGrooming Spa

First time clients receive 10% discount

Consultation & Medical checkGrooming, Bathing & StylingClipping & Hand StrippingAnti-Shedding Treatments

MicrochippingNail ClippingTaxi Service

Doggy Day Care & Walking Service

For bookings, prices and more informationplease contact Professional Dog Groomer

Suzanna Carter on 07825873730

Pamper Your 4 Legged Friendwww.rubiesgroomingspa.co.uk

Root & Branch

Fun QuizPortwell Angel, Market Place, Faringdon

Monday 5th December. From 8.00pm.Come and join us at the Portwell Angel for a Fun Quiz. You will besupporting Root & Branch’s great work in the local community. Entry£2.00 per person. Teams of up to 4; don’t worry if you’re alone, we’ll finda team for you. Winners to take the prize fund; so the more that takepart the bigger the prize.

About Root & BranchRoot & Branch is a therapeutic and rural crafts project for peopleexperiencing mental health difficulties; such as depression, anxiety,schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder.We are located in the Vale of the White Horse and support people fromthe surrounding areas. We provide a friendly relaxed atmosphere whichhelps towards recovery. Over time most people notice realimprovements in their physical and mental health.As well as renewed health and wellbeing; other benefits include anenjoyment of life and realisation of potential. This includes moving on totake up options for education, training and volunteering; as well as paidemployment.

For more information or the opportunity to volunteerplease contact us:

Phone: 01793 780 380E-mail: [email protected]: www.rootandbranch.infoCharity no.: 1143294



Chickens @Seven Acres Nurseries


Birdie TalesWren

Troglodytes troglodytesThe wren is a shy antisocial little bird; you are morelikely to hear its surprisingly loud song long before youcan see it in the garden. With its tiny russet brownbody and upright tail darting around they a verydifficult to spot. Most of us are familiar with itsaffectionate nickname jenny wren, which seemssuitable for the females, but slightly embarrassing forthe lads when playing darts down the pub! (“It’s yourround Jenny”)

The name Troglodyte means “cave-dweller” inreference to their tendency to forage in dark crevices,feeding mainly on spiders and insects. Despite beingelusive, wrens are our most common breeding bird;population is estimated at 8.5 million pairs.

The males have quite a tough time when it comes tonest building; they construct several potential openfronted globe shaped dwellings, up to six can be madeat any one time, in walls, trees, bushes or banks, puttogether from leaves, grass and moss. Only when thefemale has checked out each one and chosen herfavourite, will she line the nest with feathers andmove in. (that’s why the guys go to the pub!)We have two wrens in our garden, (Jen & Bruce) witha little effort, both can be tempted on the oddoccasion to take mealworms or cheese from the birdtable.

Keep an ear and an eye out for the dumpy littlefellows, although we have large numbers scatteredaround our countryside, cold winters can bedevastating for them.

C.Row


Are you hibernating?I sometimes get asked “How do youhave so much energy?, I am tooexhausted to exercise!” Well there liesthe answer! You have to move aroundmore to get more energy. It takes somethinking about doesn’t it, but it’s true.Being active for at least 30 minutes daily

– enough to get you slightly breathlessand ‘puffing’ can enable you to have more energy. Now that the nights aredrawing in, the comfort of the sofa with a warm drink and a snack can bemore inviting than heading out into the cold and it isn’t going to have thedesired effect on the waistline.

We sometimes give ourselves reasons not to start a programme of fitness –can’t afford it, no time, no energy (see above) maybe tomorrow etc etc.Take action NOW! Start today! Get into a good routine and find a differentyou – a more energised you, a slimmer happier you. Joining a local exerciseclass or your local gym is sociable too. Swimming is rewarding andrefreshing and your sleep patterns will improve also.

Highworth Recreation Centre has a wide range of fitness classes, coursesand sessions for all ages and abilities. Visit soon for a tour of facilities and awelcoming start to your Autumn season.

Bring this article with you and you can have a 7 day trial of our gym.We want to support you in your new plan too!

Shape up and Shop is an exciting Off Peak Passport Offer available until 4Dec 11 ask at reception for details.

Hearing the ladies and gents laughing as they exercised in the new BallroomBlitz class this Tuesday lunchtime was pleasing. I wonder what else theywould have been doing instead. Tea and biscuits anyone?

Article written and supplied by Ann Lewis, Marketing Manager forHighworth Recreation Centre.

www.highworthrec.co.uk

International company with European Headquarters in Faringdon,Oxfordshire invites applications for this important full time vacancy

IT Support TechnicianWe are looking to appoint a self-motivated, enthusiastic individual intoour Global IT Team. The successful candidate will be responsible forensuring the whole regional IT operation remains functional. Applicantswill need to be organised, an excellent communicator, have goodanalytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritise. Five toseven years end user support/server/network experience is required.

Working knowledge of the following:Windows Server 2003, 2008, 2008 R2

Windows Active Directory (DNS/DHCP/WINS)Exchange 2003 & 2010 (multi site environment)

Symantec Backup ExecVirus/Malware software

Blackberry Enterprise Server (Smart phone technology)HP and CISCO LAN Equipment

CISCO Firewall/Client/LAN to LAN VPNCISCO Aeronet Products

CISCO Phone System InfrastructureExperience of Windows XP/7/Mac OS/MS Office/Sage

This position will be pivotal and will provide the opportunity to beinvolved in many challenging aspects of this expanding business.Willingness to travel (internationally) and to be supportive in a 24/7capacity essential. Candidates must reside within 40 minutes of the office.

Applications in writing with CV to:Andrew Gray – Operations Director

Ariat Europe Limited, 1 Radcot Estate, Park Road,Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 8LA


Grove Technology Park,[email protected]

01235 772992


GLASS PROCESSORS & GLAZIERSGLASS CUT WHILE-U-WAIT

MIRRORS • BEVELLINGSANDBLASTING • POLISHING

DRILLING • DECORATIVE GLASSCOLOURED SPLASHBACKS

Cameo Glass, Park Road, Faringdon,Oxon SN7 7DS

Tel: 01367 242421 Fax: 01367 242978Email: [email protected]


Portwell Cycle Rides

Faringdon to EastLeachDistance: 22.5 milesRound TripNo. Pubs en route: 3


Witney01993 608484

Faringdon01367 899272


CAR BODY REPAIRSV W RESTORATION

TEL 01367 243324MOB 07918 660725

OPEN MON-SAT [email protected]

So nimbly, the days of the year dance onward. Growing children across Daringfonia pledge again their fading allegianceto the King in the Red coat and white beard: the younger ones make the same pledge in expectation. The leaves havemostly fallen, late this year. December approaches and with it the New Year.

So, what of the New Year? Outside of Daringfonia, the Globe’s population struggles to extricate itself from self-madefinancial quagmire in which it finds itself. We are hopelessly contaminated but must continue as though we are not. Arewe a mini Helenica in need of bailing out? Are we a mini Deutschland intent on stamping our preferences on others? TheRed coated King will deliver fewer gifts than usual this Feasting. The elves too, will be on short-time this December!On the other hand, millionaires are made in times of depression and gloom. One man’s loss is another’s gain: everycloud has a silver lining. It’s up to you!

Our previous musings have made reference to the High Sheriff in Abingdonia working on behalf of the Nomads. Theystill seek reparation from the Focal Angels for the use of accommodations to house The Annual Festivities and theclosing of the gates to Bullocks & Carts. And all the time their own financial contribution to the Event decreases: tonothing this last year! (They even charged for the use of the “Oxen Diverted” signs!). The Great Festivities increase everin cost, but the Nomads raise not the smallest of digits to assist with the preparations for the weekend of revelry. Thisis left to a few dedicated Faringdonians who delight in the joy the Party brings to the townsfolk despite the cost to theirpockets.

So, what, we wonder, shall happen next July if the Focal Angels are cast into the debtors gaol?

The Parapet and The Poison Chalice

The Advertiser is produced by Holly Davies and published by Focus on Faringdon CIC, Portwell House, Market Place, Faringdon SN7 7HU. Tel: 01367 246146. All artwork designedby Chloe Diamond and Holly Davies is the copyright of Focus on Faringdon CIC and must not be used by or in any other publication, in whatsoever format, without our prior writtenconsent. No part of this publication, whether advert, pictures or text, may be reproduced in any format whatsoever without the prior written consent of Focus on Faringdon CIC. Theinformation published in the advertisements and other articles is supplied and approved by advertisers. Focus on Faringdon CIC does not verify or ratify any claims made in suchadvertisements or text, nor does it accept any claims or liability arising from contact with or use of services advertised. Every effort is made to ensure the accurate reproduction ofinformation supplied by advertisers in their advertisements or other text submitted. Any inaccuracies must be notified to the publisher immediately following the first insertion so thatamendments may be made for subsequent issues. The Publisher does not accept responsibility or liability for claims arising for inaccuracies published in advertisements where theadvertiser has not advised Focus on Faringdon CIC prior to publication.

Cover picture by Anna Marlow from Faringdon See http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=76531095@N00&q=marlowpics for more of her exceptional work.


Debbie and Stuartwelcome you to the Swan

Under the same managementas the award winning

Halfpenny and Old ForgeBrewery

Now Serving traditionalbasket meals and bar snacks

Sausages made withFaringdon brewed beer bylocal butcher, Pat Thomas

Traditional Ales & CidersOpen Fires

Christmas Menu AvailableMon - Fri from 5th Dec

Booking essential

Wines from Den Boer

THE SWAN


Christmas WreathByhanging aChristmasWreath on your door,you are in fact carryingon a tradition datingback to ancient Rome,when decorative wreathswere used as a sign of victoryand success. After each battlewon, the citizens of Romewould make a wreath and hangit on their door, to thank their

Gods. Over time, this has evolved into a way of celebrating the birth ofChrist, using evergreens as a sign of hope, for the coming of Spring andrenewed life

These days wreaths come in all shapesand sizes and are often synthetic, massproduced items, that are used yearafter year. Traditional fresh wreathscan also last a suprisingly long time.One customer claimed that sheused hers for 3 years running, as

even though the foliage loses itslustre after 3 months or so, the

wreath will dry eventually,with the fruits, cones and

cinnamon still looking asgood as when they

were first fixed on.Lauren Thornton


Spare a thought for some port this Christmas….

As with many indulgences that are entertained over the Christmas break,the time and inclination (and the constant reminder of snow promised bypsychic weather informants) leans towards the ‘long drink’ by a roaring fire.A suitably decadent and extremely delicious option for such an occasion isport. The Oxford Companion to Wine describes it as ‘a fortified wine madeby adding brandy to arrest fermenting grape must’, producing a wine thatis sweet and high in alcohol, often around 20% ABV.Interestingly, it was the British that helped make the port industry what itis today. In the l690s, the British looked for an alternative supplier of winedue to its falling out with France. English wine merchants explored thewines of Portugal, as both countries had shared amicable relations. Theydiscovered red wines from indigenous Portuguese grape varieties of greatextraction (colour & flavour) and astringency from the Douro Valley.Produced from very vigorous fermentation at high temperatures, theyadded brandy in order to help ensure that the wines arrived in the UK intact.A similar wine making practice was discovered by the British in a monasteryin the high mountains of the Douro Valley, where an abbot added brandy towine during fermentation rather than the end in order to produce a winealong the lines of what we know as port today.

A couple of ports available locally:Barros Ruby Port NV, Porto, PortugalEstablished in 1913 and located in the heart of Portugal’s famed Douroregion, Barros is one of the largest and most respected Portugese ownedport houses.Traditional grape varieties from the Douro region are used to produce theirruby port. The vines are cultivated on a combination of terraces supportedby stone walls and on platforms held by natural slopes on the contours ofthe hillsides that line the Douro River.After hand harvesting, the grapes are crushed and spend an extendedmaceration (skin contact) in order to obtain a rich wine in colour, aroma andflavour. Fermentation is arrested by the addition of grape spirit in order tocreate the sweet wine. The wine is matured in wooden casks (pipes) for 3years.

Ruby port is known for its bright ruby colour andyouthful red berry flavour spectrum.It is a blended style sourced from a multiple of vintages,aged for between 2-5 years in cement, steel tanks orcasks.Typically of this style, this port shows aromas andflavours of red barriers; ripe raspberries with redcurrants and lingering flavours of vanilla spice. Thelength is long and sweet but well balanced and wellintegrated.Available from the Portwell Angel

Penny’s Hill ‘The Veteran’ Very Old FortifiedShiraz NV McLaren Vale, South Australia100% ShirazAs usual, the Aussies have to have their take on thewhole deal and have a go at making some of this gearfor themselves.Due to EU regulations, they are not allowed to refer totheir fortified wines as port (or they’ll get fined orworse still, exiled to a penal colony in a landsomewhere far, far, far away….).But what a cracking wine anyway!The best grapes have been sourced from very old shiraz vines, where thefruit is left to ripen fully on the vine to maximise the rich concentratedflavours. The berries will lose water and shrivel slightly, which gives a raisinflavour. Fortified with a high quality brandy spirit, the distinctive nutty

‘rancio’ character is the result of gradual oxidation from more than 20 yearsof ageing in oak barrels.Luscious and well balanced with rich concentration of nuts, coffee beans,vanilla, orange peel with dried fruits and spice, this wine offers layers ofinteresting complexity.Ideal to sip by that roaring fire …….

£13.99/50cl bottleAvailable from Den Boer wines

Wine ReviewREVIEWS

ReasonablyPriced Accommodation

Special meal nights:Tuesday, Friday and Saturday

TapasSpecials Board

Children’s MenuSunday Carvery:£6.95 Daddy Bell

£4.95 Mummy Bell£3.95 Baby Bell

Meat Raffle every Sunday

Free Function RoomTel 01367 240534

The Bell HotelUnder new management

Mel & Eddie welcome you to

Market Place, Faringdon, SN7 7HP BINGO NIGHTEyes Down

1st Monday of the Month at 7.30pmChristmas Day Bookings now being taken…

Children’s Day Nursery inShellingford, FaringdonRecognised by OFSTED in September 2010as OUTSTANDING in Leadership & Management

Excellent quality Children’s Day Nursery combining traditional lovingCare with a stimulating educational programme to provide a well-Balanced environment for your child.

� Children from 6 weeks to 5 years� Open 7.45am to 6.15pm Monday to Friday� Full time or part time (51 weeks)� Pre-school educational curriculum� French and music classes� Secure Door Entry System

To organise a visit please contact Steph Chapman,Nursery Manager on 01367 718888

Rogers gardenstonefor all your paving needs

Come and have a walk around our garden displaysto get ideas and inspiration

We have handcrafted paving produced on site and alsosandstone, travertine & limestone from all around the world

Open to trade & retail • Now open 7 days

Tel: 01367 240112www.rogersgardenstone.co.uk


Focus On Faringdon CIC=Focus On Faringdon CIC works for the benefit of Faringdon. In the past three years it has produced the “Visit Vale” Guide on behalf of the Vale of WhiteHorse District Council; assisted with the Sealed Knot Muster in 2008 and The Faringdon Arts Festivals. It continues to provides secretarial support to

“Faringdon Area Project” and to The Faringdon Chamber of Commerce. In it’s work with Faringdon Area Project it organised, had printed and distributed,the publication detailing the outcome of the 2008-2012 Town Health Check. Focus on Faringdon CIC has administeredGovernment funding for the Folly Regeneration Project, the building of Faringdon’s NEW Skate Park and the promotionof the town in The Advertiser and Focus On Faringdon Town Guides. Focus on Faringdon CIC continues to promoteFaringdon; have you heard of the new book “52 - far from the madding beaches?” Take a look at www.oxnews.co.uk.



New Salon Open Now

Hot new salon, V.I.P. Hair and Beauty Studio, has opened its doors on Station Road and is ready to preen, pamper andpolish new customers.

Business owner, Becky, hopes to make an impact on locals by offering excellence in customer care. Becky said: "Ourclients are the number one priority and we want everyone to feel special and important when they come to visit us.Hence the name V.I.P."

Becky previously owned Elements of Beauty, operating in a Highworth salon and has a loyal customer base there. Manyof them will be following her to Faringdon to come for their relaxing facials and immaculate manicures.

V.I.P. Hair and Beauty Studio will offer a range of services including quality hair-cuts, colouring and finishes byexperienced and very talented hairdressers, Mary and Jodie. Becky will be providing the beauty treatments includingfacials, massage, aromatherapy, manicures and pedicures, spray tanning, waxing and eyelash tinting.

Visit Becky and the team this month to get glam and gorgeous for the party season, or treat friends and family toChristmas Gift Vouchers for a pampering session of their own. The Studio has an extensive range of retail hair andbeauty products available, including TIGI and Germaine de Capuccini, perfect for Christmas presents.

Call now to book on 07863 315 968


Where the Thames Meets the Cotswolds

An historic riverside Inn The Trout at Tadpole Bridgeoffers some of the finest locally sourced food, a greatselection of cask ales, over 200 different wines, sixindividually designed bedrooms and private moorings

on the Thames.Situated between Bampton and Buckland, the inn is 15

minutes south of Witney.Join us for Sausage night on a Thursday and Pie night on

a Tuesday,Fabulous selection of fresh fish, local game and

succulent Ribeye steak.

Buckland Marsh, Oxfordshire, SN7 8RFwww.trout-inn.co.uk t. 01367 870382

[email protected]

Christmas Party Menus Now Available

Restaurant ReviewThe Trout at Tadpole Bridge

www.troutinn.co.ukTo find an historic Inn where ramblers, fishermenand locals alike, hang their coats before sampling apint of well kept real ale or glass of wine, is a rarityindeed nowadays, but to find one that is set in sucha beautiful location on the banks of the riverThames, offering top notch contemporary food is areal gem!

The Trout at Tadpole Bridge have gained many accolades overthe years including, AA pub of the year and Dining pub of the year.

Warm welcomes don’t get any warmer than the one you willreceive from owner Helen Pugh, along with her husband Gareth,they have maintained a traditional pub feel whilst catering formodern demand for quality dining.

Opting for chilli & coriander marinated squid, slaw & rocket salad- Hebridian scallops, ragout of lentils, lardons & dauphinoisepotato followed by pan fried calves liver, fondant potato,cauliflower puree, wild mushrooms – fillet of sea-bass, lyonnaisepotatoes & pesto, all cooked and presented in a wonderful way.

The main menu and specials board are extensive, with as you’dexpect, a strong emphasis on fresh fish dishes. All puddings arehomemade, try the cointreau & orange crème brulee, you won’t bedisappointed.

A very enjoyable evening indeed!


Job Opportunities

An Experienced CommercialInsurance Broker required.

Please send your cv [email protected]

Or email:[email protected]

Or make an appointment tocome and see us.f

When BGi.uk’s customers were stranded by volcanic ash lastyear, our insurers responded quickly and said they would coverthem under their Lifeline Plus group PA and travel insurance.

Great for our customers at the time, but what about today?

Well, Iceland’s Katla volcano, larger and more powerful than itsneighbour Eyjafjallajökull, is showing signs of increased activity.And it’s not just Iceland. Chile’s Puyehue volcano is once againsimmering. So much so that Buenos Aires’ Jorge Newberryairport recently suspended all flights whilst it waited for an ashcloud to pass.

So, it might just be time to check the details of you businesstravel Insurance

Our Insurers will pay up to £10,000 in travel, accommodationand additional costs that cannot be recovered elsewhere if atrip has to be cancelled, curtailed, altered or delayed becauseof a natural catastrophe.

We like to make sure our clients can relax - even when they’regrounded!

For more information please email: [email protected]

Town Centre Offices to let: fully serviced if required

PORTWELL HOUSEMARKET PLACEFARINGDONSN7 7HU

01367 241162WWW .BGi.UK.COM

01367 241162

Did you know

• BGi provides personal Home

Insurance; especially for those

living in Oxfordshire and The

Vale of the White Horse.

• Because we know the area

we believe we can get you

the very best policy at the

very best price.

• BGi are based in Faringdon.

Whilst we have clients across

the UK, we will be pleased to

meet clients and prospective

clients in the office or the

Portwell Angel for a coffee.

• As a local broker BGi.uk are

available to help with those

nasty little problems, and the

major ones!

BGi.uk are insurance brokersregistered with the FSA andspecialize in:

� Property OwnersRisks

� Simple & ComplexLiabilities

� Cargo & FreightLiability

� Home Insurance &Travel Insurance

� Business Insurance

� Manufacturing,hi-tec & research

� Complex andDifficult Risks

Six separate rooms available individually or as ablock. The offices are each furnished. A modernfully functioning telephone system is installed anda fast Internet access up and running.The offices are situated in Faringdon MarketPlace (see picture) and offer great views as wellas excellent working conditions.The property may be available on a long or shortlease or on a monthly license.

Please contact Nick Elwell on 01367 241162 [email protected] for more information.

14 Market Place, Faringdon, SN7 7HP

[email protected]

Business Travel Insurance

Want Advicebut perhaps not necessarilyinsurance? BGi.uk will bepleased to provide basic RiskManagement advice: withoutcharge during November.

Do you know what Directorsand Officers Insurance covers?Should you? What about riskssuch as pollution, environmentaldamage, product recall, creditinsurance, product liability andefficacy or failure to perform?For help with any of these orothers not mentioned pleasecall 01367 246130.

[email protected]


Date Event Venue Time Contact Charge/info

Fri 2nd Christmas with CotswoldsVoices Faringdon Junior School 7:30pm Entry Free

Donations to NSPCC

Fri 2nd Oxford's Christmas Light Night Oxford 5pm -10pm www.oxfordinspires.org Free

Fri 2nd The Hyperbolics Portwell Angel, Faringdon 7:30pm www.theportwellangel.co.uk Free

Sat 3rd Festive Faringdon Faringdon 1pm to5pm Free

Sat 3rd Faringdon Preschool ChristmasBazaar

Catholic Church Hall,Faringdon

10am -2pm

[email protected] Free

Sat 3rd Watchfield Christmas Fayre Watchfield Village Hall 10am -1pm Jo 01793 783037 In aid of St Thomas

Church

Sat 3rd M.A.D.D @ The Crown The Old Crown CoachingInn, Faringdon 9pm Free

Sat 3rd Portwell Cellar open all day forMulled Wine and Spiced Cider Portwell Cellar Open all

day www.portwellcellar.co.uk Live Music by Phil Bakertill 8pm

Sun 4th Sunday Lunch with Santa Sudbury House Hotel,Faringdon 12:00 Anne Corley 01367 245345

[email protected] £18 per person

Sun 4th 15 Minute Club Returns Portwell Cellar 7:30pm www.portwellcellar.co.uk Free

Tue 6th Amnesty International - AnnualGreetings Card Campaign

Under the Old Town Hall,Faringdon

10am -12noon

Janis Chatfield 01367 240632Secretary of AIUK Faringdon Group

Send a card to a prisonerof conscience.

Wed 7th Kylie Feverish Tribute Show Snooty Mehmaan,Faringdon

7pm -11pm

[email protected] 242260

£30 per person incl.dinner and show

Wed 7th Jazz Music Night Portwell Angel, Faringdon 7:30pm www.theportwellangel.co.uk Free

Thur 8th "Opera to the Musicals, aSingers Approach" Corn Exchange, Faringdon 2:30pm www.FaringdonU3A.org.uk

Ian Clarkson 01793 782836Comic Opera and

Audience participation.

Thur 8th NCT drop in Faringdon Family Centre,Bromsgrove

2:30pm -4pm www.nct.org.uk/faringdon Free - Donations to NCT

appreciated

Thur 8th Murder Mystery Dinner - "AChristmas Killing"

Sudbury House Hotel,Faringdon 7:30pm Anne Corley 01367 245345

[email protected]£39.50 per person. Incl. 3course Christmas dinner

Thur 8th Jam Session Portwell Cellar 8pm www.portwellcellar.co.uk Everybody Welcome

Fri 9th Christmas Concert byCandlelight - Louise Woodgate

Holy Ascension Church,Littleworth

7:30pm -8:00pm

Jill 01367 [email protected]

£10 incl. glass of wineand nibbles

Sat 10th Craft Fair Corn Exchange, Faringdon 10am -4pm 01367 241204 Free



Wed 14th The Elvis Experience Snooty Mehmaan,Faringdon

7pm -11pm

[email protected] 242260

£30 per person incl.dinner and show

Wed 14th Nick Gill's Easy Jazz Portwell Angel, Faringdon 7:30pm www.theportwellangel.co.uk Free

Wed 14th Quiz Night Portwell Cellar 8:30pm www.portwellcellar.co.uk £2 entry, all money goesto charity

Fri 16th M.A.D.D @ The Crown The Old Crown CoachingInn, Faringdon 9pm Free

Circus in tow (open mic)

Sat 17th Rod's Disco Portwell Cellar 8pm www.portwellcellar.co.uk Free



Wed 21st Christmas Quiz by Dave andSue Portwell Angel, Faringdon 8pm www.the portwellangel.co.uk £1 entry, winner takes

pot.

Wed 21st Jazz Music Night - Faringdoniacheese and wine party night Portwell Angel, Faringdon 8pm www.the portwellangel.co.uk Bring a neighbour

Out and About


Local Events in DecemberDate Event Venue Time Contact Charge/info

Thur 22nd Kiff The Portwell Angel,Faringdon 7:30pm www.theportwellangel.co.uk

Fri 23rd Day before Christmas EveParty Portwell Cellar 8pm www.portwellcellar.co.uk Live Music

Xmas Fancy dress optional

Fri 23rd M.A.D.D ChristmasParty/Fund raiser

The Old Crown Coaching Inn,Faringdon 9pm Free

Fri 23rd Christmas Party Night Music Sudbury House Hotel,Faringdon 7:30pm Anne Corley 01367 245345

[email protected]£35pp incl. 2 course buffet

and Disco

Sat 24th M.A.D.D ChristmasParty/Fund raiser

The Old Crown Coaching Inn,Faringdon 9pm Free

Sat 31st New Year's Eve Party The Portwell Angel,Faringdon 7:30pm www.theportwellangel.co.uk Tickets £20 incl. Dinner.

Dress to kill. Late Licence

Local Events in January

Thur 5th Back to Uni Party The Portwell Angel,Faringdon www.theportwellangel.co.uk 20% off with student Uni

card between 21:00 - 22:00

Sat 7th Strictly Gerschwin outing Leave Market Square at10:30am

2:30matinee Margot 01367 244853 £80 for seat in stalls and

coach. Proceeds to charity

Thur 19th Mulled Wine Competition The Portwell Angel,Faringdon www.theportwellangel.co.uk

Fri 20th Let's go Spanish: SpanishFood and Spanish Music

The Portwell Angel,Faringdon www.theportwellangel.co.uk

Sun 22nd Folly Tower at Night Folly Tower, Faringdon 4pm -7pm

Climb the tower, see the ChristmasLight and nighttime landscape

Adults £2, 11-16 50p,under 11s free

Fri 27thSat 28th

Cinderella - a Pantomime7:30 Fri/Sat 2:30 Sat Faringdon Junior School Hall 7:30pm www.faringdondramatic.org.uk

Fiona Merrick 01367 242967Tickets: adults £8,

Concs. £6 @ the Nut Tree

Regular Events

1st Tues Farmers' Market Market Place All day 01367 710445

EveryTues Quiz Night King and Queen, Longcot 8.30pm www.longcotkingandqueen.com Teams or individuals

EveryWed Jazz Night The Portwell Angel,

Faringdon 7:30pm www.theportwellangel.co.uk

1st Thur Folk Session The Swan, Park Road,Faringdon 8pm Rachel -

[email protected]

Every Fri Country Market Corn Exchange 9.15 -11am 01367 710382

Every Sat Faringdon Farcycle cycle ride Leave from Market Place 9am 01367 241142 11-12 and 25-35 miles

Every Sat Supportive, informalparenting group

Faringdon CommunityCollege 1-3pm Stella on 07963536568

Every Sun Quiz Night The Red Lion 8pm 01367 244585


Experts - local services

16-18 London Road, Faringdon, OxfordshireTel: 01367 242268

ASTON PINE STRIPPINGCaustic and non-caustic stripping of all woods & metals.Established for over 15 years - Water Board Approved

ASTON PINE ANTIQUESStockists of English and Continental pine furniture, as well

as many other antiques - 8,000+ sq.ft of showroomsOxford Architectural Antiques

Large stock of period fireplaces, doors, panelling,sanitary ware & garden items.

Architectural salvage sourcing service available.

Den Boer WinesQuality wines, tastings and events

www.denboerwines.com Tel 01367 241169

Mobile 07919 241881Email: [email protected]

TOM FOYRepairs & Servicing of

Washing Machines, Cookers and DriersFully Guaranteed

Tel: 01793 766397or 01367 252701 (Lechlade)

Emma Palmer07531 946141Nail Technician and Beauty TherapistFaringdon, Oxfordshire

D.G. JoineryCity & Guilds qualified carpenter and joiner.

All Carpentry work undertakenSpecialist in fitted wardrobes • Kitchen installations

Bookcases • Bespoke joinery - including stairsAll exterior carpentry including decking, sheds etc.

Any building alterations including guttering etc.Free Quotations

Telephone: 07831 680440

F A R I N G D O N C A R SA I R P O R T T R A N S F E R S

Corporate ServiceCourier ServiceExecutive CarsInsured Cars

Short/Long DistancesBusiness AccountsDriver Hire4/7 Seaters

01367 243838 / 07894 [email protected]

www.faringdoncars.co.uk


Experts - local servicesYour local electricians

Domestic-Commercial-IndustrialFaringdon

Tel: 01367 240308

The Music GalleryIndependent music retailer

[email protected]

8 Newbury StreetWantage,Oxon OX12 8BS01235 770353

A local-run companyfocusing on personalised

care services.High standard of care

Individually tailored care plansYour own regular care worker

My Carer Tel: 01367 718413www.mycareroxfordshire.co.uk

Ohm ElectrixElectrical services and InstallationsWeb: www.ohm-electrix.co.uk

Fully qualified and insured electrician.All types of domestic work undertaken, from small jobs to garden and garagepower, to full rewires.Commercial and Solar PV work also catered for.Friendly, professional service from a local company.

Contact us to discuss your needs, and get a free, no obligation estimate and advice.Phone: 07879 013359Mail: [email protected]

Registered with the NICEIC domestic installer “part P” SCHEME

The Cheap Wayto Add Space

[email protected]

www.storage4all.co.uk01367 240880

Your Barber on Call

Why Wait When I Can come to you!

Mirella Pastore

Has Returned!

Mob: 07813 121288Call: 01367 243986

COMPUTERSUPPORT

Bespoke Affordable IT Solutions• Computer healthchecks, repairs and

updates• Network Setup • Data Recovery & Backup

0845 467 [email protected] • www.quidne-

Merry Christmas to all our Readers & a Happy New Year!


[email protected] www.smconsult.co.uk

Supervisor: Margaret Disney Chair: Becca Jackson

Would you like your child to attend an “outstanding” Pre-School? Ashbury Pre-School currently has spaces available for 2012so if your child is aged 2-5 then please do give us a ring on 01793710606 to arrange a visit. Ashbury Pre-School has justbeen given an “Outstanding” Ofsted in all areas.

“Children have fun and are purposefully engaged in all areas of this dynamicsetting.They make excellent progress as staff recognise them as uniqueindividuals and tailor their learning and care to meet their needs and currentstage of development.”Ofsted July 2011.Ashbury Pre-School has fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities “There arenumerous opportunities for them to independently solve problems outside. As aresult the development of these skills in the wider outdoor environment isoutstanding.”Ofsted July 2011.

Ashbury Pre-school is set within Ashbury School inthis small, rural village between Shrivenham andLambourn. Ashbury pre-school is a registeredcharity and relies on fund raising and local supportto keep going.Please take a look at our website to read the fullofsted report and get further information.www.ashburypreschool.org


Diary of EventsDecember Events

Fri 2nd Hyperbolics perform at the Portwell Angel

Sat 3rd Festive Faringdon - Visit the Portwell Angel forMulled Wine in town

Mon 5th Quiz Night in aid of “Root & Branch” £2.00entry - winners takes the prize fund

Wed 7th Jazz Music Night - not live but easy Jazz(thanks to Reg) all evening

Sat 10th Gloucester St Dental Practice Cocktail Party(afternoon)

Sat 10th Faringdon Amateur Dramatic Society ChristmasParty (evening)

Mon 12th U3A Jazz Group Lunch

Wed 14th Nick Gill and Friends - Live Jazz: Book for dinner

Thur 15th Farcycles Christmas Party (Contact DavidWilliamson for details)

Wed 21st Jazz Music Night - Faringdon Cheese and WineParty Night - Bring a Neighbour

Thur 22nd Kiff at the Portwell Angel

Fri 23rd Drum and Base at The Portwell Angel

Sat 24th Mince Pies and Mulled Wine

Sun 25th Closed

Mon 26th Open at 10:00

Wed 28th Jazz Music Night

Sat 31st

New Year’s Eve Party at the Portwell Angel -Ooh La La - with a sparkle. Dress to Kill

Tickets £20.00 to include dinner.Late Licence

January Events

Sun 1st Jan Open at 10:00

Thur 5th Back to Uni Party (20% off with your studentunion card between 21:00 &22:00)

Wed 11th Jazzed Up Curry

Wed 18th Jazz Music Night

Thur 19th Mulled Wine Competition

Fri 20th Let’s go Spanish: Spanish Food and SpanishMusic


BOOK NOW FORYOUR CHRISTMASPARTY

Documents

Advertiser Winter Edition 2011