THIS WEEK IN YOUR ADVISER - More and More people are using The Hungerford and Marlborough Weekly Adviser to improve their business images and returns. You too can benefit from The Adviser by telephoning 01488 682328, by Faxing 01488 681899 or by emailing adviser@universal-press.co.uk

TESCO SUPER SPECIALS IN ADVISER
Don't miss the TESCO super specials on the front page of this week's Hungerford and Marlborough Weekly Adviser! Hundreds of district people are now visiting the Hungerford TESCO super store and many are coming from Marlborough and its district thanks largely to Adviser advertising.

Yes; you're in ADVISER Territory!

HUNDREDS MOURN BILL SCROPE
Former Hungerford Park estate manager William James Conyers (Bill) Scrope was mourned by more than 300 people at his Requiem Mass in Devizes Church of The Immaculate Conception on Tuesday.
Bill Scrope died on Monday, June 22 after a brave struggle with cancer. During his long and loyal period as estate manager, he effected many improvements under the ownership of Lord and Lady Howard de Walden and their family. During this time he became a respected and popular figure in Hungerford district and when he retired the family moved to Glebe House, Chittoe where again they made their impressive mark on the community. At Requiem Mass the Homily was delivered by Father Edward Corbould OSB; a fine tribute given by his brother Adrian, a delightful reading by Clementine Slade of an extract from a poem by Brian Patten and the Final Commendation was delivered by Father Philip. Bill Scrope leaves his devoted wife Ginny and Clementine and Richard.

MARLBOROUGH IS ONE BIG ART GALLERY
1.7.09: Marlborough becomes one big art gallery from today for the whole month of July. The work of 30 local artists is being exhibited in 30 shops and office windows around the town centre.
The project is a joint venture between the town's Chamber of Commerce, We Love Marlborough and Marlborough Open Studios. -Louisa Davison theweeklyadviser.com

ROTARY CLUB CHANGEOVER
1.7.09: Dr Hugh Pihlens on Tuesday night took over as Hungerford Rotary Club president from Bob Gray of ADP Dealer Services International. The club had a particularly successful year under Bob's leadership. The changeover dinner was at Hungerford's Bear Hotel. theweeklyadviser.com

DISCO, LIVE ROCK AND BLUES AT THE SUN
1.7..09: Pete's Disco will feature at Hungerford's Sun Inn this Friday, July 3 and on this Saturday, July 4 there will be Karaoke. It's all part of a ravishing future programme at The sun in Charnham Street. Added to all the entertainment there will be Carlsberg and Green King IPA at £1.99 a pint all day and every day. the sun is open for lunch 7 days a week and en-suite accommodation is available. Telephone 01488 682162. theweeklyadviser.com

ROTARY SUPPORTS WORTHY CAUSES
24.06.09: Hungerford Rotary Club on Tuesday voted a £500 contribution to the micro-credit programme and also a contribution of £250 to support Hungerford Brownies. theweeklyadviser.com

CHURCH DECISION DELAYED
23.06.09: Hungerford Town Council on Monday night delayed decisions on Hungerford's long-awaited new Roman Catholic church. About 20 members of the public attended a special council meeting and concern over parking space was discussed. Many Hungerford and district Catholics have contributed to the project. Discussion will now be held at the monthly council meeting on Monday, July 6. theweeklyadviser.com

GEDDES CARPETS CONSOLIDATING IN MARLBOROUGH
23.06.09: More and more people are consulting Geddes Carpets of Marlborough for all high quality makes of flooring.
Geddes opened in Marlborough two months ago and many town and district people are taking advantage of their free fitting offer for all orders over £350.
They offer free estimates for vinyls, wood and carpets and most fitting is carried out within two weeks and less where requested.
Store Manager Richard Woodbridge has 40 years' flooring experience.
Geddes Carpets are next to Marlborough Library on the college end at 92 High Street, telephone 01672 514261. theweeklyadviser.com

HUNGERFORD JEWEL QUEST LAUNCHED
19.06.09: The Hungerford Jewel quest was officially launched in a ceremony at Hungerford's Bear Hotel on Wednesday evening. The quest for the jewel is a publicity event to attract people to Hungerford and its great array of shops. The jewel has been crafted by jeweller Greg Furr and is on display during the day at his shop. To gain a chance of winning the jewel, valued at £4000, you need to visit Hungerford and solve 12 clues. the clues are being released in three sets of four at monthly intervals from June 24. Cost of the clues is £11 and they are available through www.hungerfordquest.com or from The Hungerford Bookshop. theweeklyadviser.com

SOLICITOR JOINS MADT BOARD
17.06.09: Victoria Lara, a solicitor with Thring, Townsend, Lee & Pemberton has joined the Marlborough Area Development Trust (MADT) board. theweeklyadviser.com

GROWING CONCERN AT EMPTY HUNGERFORD SHOPS
17.06.09: Increasing concern is being shown at the high number of unoccupied shops in Hungerford. It is known that Hungerford chamber of Commerce is doing all it can to attract new business to the town but it is feared that rentals may be proving an obstacle. theweeklyadviser.com

....and an explanation from Hungerford Chamber of Commerce president Ben Blake:

Dear Geoff

"I have just seen on your website the "growing concern at empty shop" article. Just to put you fully in the picture the only shops that currently are not either under offer/in negotiation or with solicitors etc are Dreweatt Neate's old office and the old Rayner shop. The problem is that whilst on the face of it nothing is happening with an empty shop the reality is, as I'm sure you're aware, it can easily take three of four months from an offer being accepted to keys being handed over (when we moved shops we put in an offer in November and got the keys first week of March!!) and a "sold" or "let" sign won't go up until contracts have been signed, hence why is appears that things move much quicker than they actually do".

TOUCHING TRIBUTES TO BRAVE LADY
17.06.09: Memorial services were held at Ramsbury's Holy Cross Church and Bury St Edmunds Cathedral on Monday for Amanda, Mrs Sam Bullard who died after a long and brave fight against cancer. The Ramsbury service organised by Mrs Michael Handford and helpers and conducted by Canon Peter Ball took the form of prayers, readings and memories. Many district people travelled to Bury St Edmunds for the cathedral service. Mrs Bullard was elder daughter of Mrs Susan, and the late Mr Christopher Eliot-Cohen of Hilldrop, Ramsbury and sister of Tim and Sarah. Amanda leaves her husband Sam and children Tatty, Louise and Patrick. Amanda faced her illness bravely and never ceased to think of others and to pursue her charitable work. In his welcome and Bidding Prayer at Ramsbury, Canon Ball said "We are gathered together in the presence of God to give thanks to Him for the life and witness of His servant Amanda and to pray that all our sorrow may be replaced by the great joy of remembrance. Let us give thanks for Amanda's too short life, which though marred by many years of ill health was one of gloroius happiness. Let us give thanks for her great love and loyalty to Sam, for the joy that she received from her children Tatty, Squeeze and Patch and the enormous pride she so very rightly had in them. Let us give thanks for her family and many friends who have supported her through the last few years. For her love of life and her infectious enthusiasm for everything that is fun, especiaally her love of skiing and the mountains, the Bung and time she spent on the coast. For her sense of humour and her love of entertaining. For all that she did to help the charities which she supported with her energetic and highly efficient fund raising events. For her wisdom and understanding of others' problems and her gentle common sense approach to solving them. But above all we give thanks for her immense courage and hope that we may be able to follow her example in times of adversity in our own lives". theweeklyadviser.com

SUCCESSFUL ROTARY BARBECUE
17.06.09: About 60 Hungerford Rotarians and their family members enjoyed a summer barbecue in the pretty and secluded rear gardens of Below Stairs yesterday evening. The barbecue was one of the final events in a highly successful presidential year for Bob Grey. His position will be taken over by Dr Hugh Pihlens soon. theweeklyadviser.com

PRESSURES ON THE RIVER KENNET
At recent meeting of the MADT Board, Action for the River Kennet & MADT Director, Charlotte Hitchmough brought the Directors’ attention to the implications of the proposed response to the European Water Framework Directive.
Pressures on the River Kennet are such that it is steadily plundered for drinking water abstraction not only for local supply but also for one third of Swindon. Pollution and sediments are also causing problems clogging spawning grounds and making it impossible for wild trout to hatch successfully. This situation is set to get worse as populations in the Kennet Valley and Swindon increase.
The response to the European Water Framework Directive should be good news for our local chalkstream but there is a grave danger that the draft response is not going to take advantage of this great opportunity for ecological improvement.
Action for the River Kennet are asking for as many people as possible to submit their opinions before the consultation deadline of 22nd June 2009.
They have produced a step-by-step guide on their website www.riverkennet.org >> follow the link for Stand up for the Kennet where you will find full information on how YOU can help.
If you have any problems you can contact Charlotte Hitchmough (ARK Director) on 01672 513672 or John Lawson (ARK Technical Adviser) 01672 841200.

CANAL BRIDGE SIMILAR TO EXISTING ONE?
The latest suggestion for Hungerford's pedestrian bridge over the Kennet and Avon Canal is for a footbridge designed on the basis of the existing bridge. This could be restricted by the £400,000 allocation for the project.

The Quest begins…
Come to Hungerford in Berkshire and join in the exciting Quest for the Hungerford Jewel.
This unique Jewel has been handcrafted from 18ct gold and Sterling silver set with Aquamarines and Moonstones and is valued at £4,000. The Jewel shows iconic symbols that represent the history of this beautiful Berkshire town.
To win the Jewel, you will need to visit Hungerford and solve 12 clues. The clues will be released in three sets of four at monthly intervals and will be available from 24th June, either online at www.hungerfordquest.com or from The Hungerford Bookshop situated in the High Street. Total cost for all clues is £11.
The Hungerford Chamber of Commerce originally conceived the idea as a way to bring more visitors to the town with the added bonus of any profit from the sale of the clues, going to a number of local good causes and charities.
To be able to claim the Jewel, all twelve clues have to be answered correctly, which will then reveal the location and name of 'The Keeper of the Jewel'. The Keeper will then ask a final question, which if answered correctly will end the Quest and enable the winner to claim the Jewel.
The Hungerford Jewel will be on display during normal opening times at Furr & Company Jewellers at 7 Bridge Street, Hungerford.
It is important to note that all answers to the clues are easily accessible, are in plain sight within Hungerford and that The Jewel is not buried or hidden, and does not require the use of metal detectors or digging equipment!
Have some fun in Hungerford and join in The Quest for the Hungerford Jewel.
Good hunting and don’t forget to tell your friends.

HUNGERFORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
On Wednesday evening, former Mastermind winner and Windsor tour guide Leslie Grout gave an informative and colourful talk on the "Burial Grounds of London".
Illustrated with numerous slides of Kensal Green and its' listed monuments to Manor Park with the catacombs and the well-maintained St. Marylebone, he regaled an enthusiastic audience with tales of the great and good.
Showing the tombs of such characters as the famous tightrope walker Blondin, to the Brunel family , Anthony Trollope ,he went on to Highgate cemetery where he told how Dante retrieved a book of his poems from the coffin of his lover Elizabeth Rossetti many years after her death.
What could have been deemed as ghoulish proved instead to be a highly interesting and captivating topic.

TESCO HUNGERFORD COMES TO THE ADVISER
TESCO'S advertisement on the front page brings you a selection of top specials each week on Fridays, so make sure you benefit from them. We hasten to say, there are many more ever-changing specials in the store.
Since opening, a growing number of Hungerford and Marlborough district residents have been taking advantage of TESCO's free parking and easily accessible stock shelves with wide and efficient checkouts. Don't miss the TESCO specials in next Friday's Adviser and also on our website theweeklyadviser.com

TOP VEHICLE SERVICING BY COLLECTION
To have your vehicles picked up, serviced and delivered back your residence or business at no extra cost is a luxury and a great relief. This service is being offered by Adviser advertiser ACB Automotive and is thoroughly recommended. ACB have 20 years' dealer experience and make collection and delivery a speciality. They collect from your home or work at a time to suit between 6am and 9 pm. They have a mobile chip and pin terminal to enable you to pay securely by credit/debit card when delivery is made. They guarantee to beat any other like for like quote on servicing and repairs. They invite contact for everything from servicing to a full engine rebuild. And they safeguard your warranty using original quality parts with their service under warranty for a fraction of main dealer prices. Give them a call on 01488 670382. theweeklyadviser.com

FOUR ARRESTS BY METRO POLICE IN MARLBOROUGH
20.5.09: Marlborough police were confined to their police station for 45 minutes on Monday while Metropolitan police carried out a special operation the basis of which has not been revealed. Usual speculation ranges from terrorism through drugs to armed robbery. Acting Segeant D Wright told Marlborough Town council's meeting on Monday that Metropolitan police sealed off the George Lane car park and arrested four people who were seated in a car.The incident in the town was not a Wiltshire matter. It was an ongoing national matter and involved action outside the town with more people wanted by police. "Regular police were recalled to the station during the operation for 45 minutes". Members of the public said two vehicles were involved and police searched the vehicles and the surrounds after the arrests. theweeklyadviser.com

COMPLAINTS OVER TRAFFIC WARDENS
20.5.09: Some Hungerford traders are complaining that traffic wardens are being over-zealous. There have been complaints of fines being issued while drivers are seeking tickets and within a few minutes of the ticket expiring. Deliveries to shops have been hampered, they say. Hungerford Chamber of Commerce members are being asked to forward the warden's name and details of incidents to chamber president Ben Blake who has emphasised that he does not want a vendetta against the wardens and who will pass on complaints to Berkshire County Council. theweeklyadviser.com

CALL FOR 24-HOUR POLICE OCCUPANCY OF HUNGERFORD STATION
20.5.09: Hungerford residents want the town's police station to be staffed 24-hours a day. The requests follow recent bloody disturbances in which several people were injured. Residents fear a return of gangs from Thatcham and Newbury, towns where heavy criminal activity has been reported. The Hungerford policer station has not been fully staffed for several years. It has been pointed out to The Adviser that notices of opening times on the door of the police station indicate to criminals as to when there are police inside the building. Police concentration is reported to be on the areas of higher crime rate and police are reported to be severely restricted by budgets and paper work. theweeklyadviser.com

MARLBOROUGH TOWN COUNCIL REVIEWS EXPENSES
20.5.09: Marlborough Town Council will increase its vigilance on expenses, clamp down on unauthorised claims and review its system of claims and allowances in light of Westminster turmoil over claims by members of parliament. Cr Dobson called for stricter control at the council's meeting on Monday Night. He said several claims appeared to have been made without authorisation. The Mayor, Cr Nick Fogg said he had not drawn on expenses for six years. Cr Dobson said the mayoral allowance might require reviewing. theweeklyadvser.com

WARNING TO HUNGERFORD TRADERS
20.5.09: From P.C. Drewitt, Neighbourhood Specialist Officer at Hungerford to Hungerford Chamber of Commerce: A male has been in to the banks in Hungerford trying to change a large sum of money, it is approximately £1000 worth of notes. He has attempted to confuse the staff by asking to change the notes into different types of change and currency. The banks refused to comply with the male's wishes and he quickly left the area. We do not have any vehicle details for the male and an area search for him came back as negative. It is likely that he is involved with the 2 females from last week attempting a similar offence.The male's description is short dark hair with blonde highlight, olive skin, 5’0 and average build.The council cameras were checked at the time of incident but unable to pick up the male. Could you possibly pass on the description for me and ask for people to continue to call in incidents straight away? theweeklyadviser.com

MARLBOROUGH TO RECOVER MOST INVESTMENT MONEY
20.5.09: Marlborough Town Council is expected to recover about 80 per cent of money invested in Icelandic banks. The money is expected to be avialable in July or August. Amounts were not revealed at the last Marlborough Town Council meeting. theweeklyadviser.com

RAT PROBLEM ON MARLBOROUGH ALLOTMENTS
20.5.09: Pest control measures are to be sought by Marlborough Town council to control the rat problem on Marlborough's town allotments. theweeklyadviser.com

INTEREST IN VACANT HUNGERFORD SHOPS
20.5.09: Hungerford Chamber of Commerce president Ben Blake reports increasing interest in vacant Hungerford shops. There has been concern at the vacancies in the town centre. The new Tesco superstore in the centre of Hungerford is reported to have increased commercial activity in the town theweeklyadviser.com

ROTARY PLEDGE AUCTION RAISES £4500
19.5.09: Hungerford Rotary Club's pledge auction on Saturday night raised £4500 for NPCC and Rotary charitable work. theweeklyadviser.com

TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT HUNGERFORD
19.5.09: Traffic congestion is being reported at Hungerford during roadworks at the A4 bridge over the River Kennet. Traffic at times has been banked back more than a mile. Angry motorists advised that the work should be carried out at night. there have been no complaints from business. theweeklyadviser.com

MINDLESS DAMAGE IN HUNGERFORD AND NEWBURY
14.5.09 9am: THE EDITOR: Sir:I am writing to inform you that I have recently had my driver's side mirror taken from my car. This made me particularly angry because it is the second time in a matter of months that this has happened to me. The first time was in broad daylight outside my work in Newbury and recently on the 11th of this month parked outside the garage in our Hungerford street. Each time this happens it costs £24 to rectify.Whaton earth is this lovely town turning into? Name and emailsupplied. theweeklyadviser.com

WIDESPREAD SHOCK AND HORROR AT POLITICIANS' EXPENSES
13.5.09 10.12pm: District people are expressing widespread shock and horror at expenses claimed by elected politicians as revealed by a prominent national newspaper.The politicians are generally claiming that the expenses are valid. The Adviser is being told by members of the public that they regard the expenses as excessive in the light of the tight economic scene, job losses and reported cuts to military support and equipment in Afghanistan. Some voters have told the Adviser they are considering not exercising their rights to vote until they perceive an improvement in politicians and their expenses system. Others are saying that Parliament should be dissolved and a general election called. theweeklyadviser.com

BALLET CENTRAL SUPERB
13.5.09 11.30am: London's Ballet Central treated a packed Newbury Corn Exchange to a thoroughly disciplined and magnificent performance on Tuesday evening. The superb presentation was part of Newbury Spring Festival's array of cultural interest. Ballet Central is part of the Central School of Ballet with students from many parts of the world. There are already calls for it to become a regular feature of the festival. Tuesday night's performance was attended by many prominent personalities including the school's president Lady Sieff and Newbury sponsors Graham and Genevieve Mather. theweeklyadviser.com

MARLBOROUGH NEW MAYOR BRINGS KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
12.5.09 3.30pm: Marlborough's new mayor, Cr Nick Fogg brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the post. Previously mayor 25 years ago he will preside over a much changed town and council. His appointment was confirmed at Marlborough's mayor making in the town hall on Monday night on the nomination of outgoing mayor Cr Peggy Dow, seconded by Cr Anthony Spranger. Deputy mayor is Cr A Ross on the nomination of Cr Dow seconded by the new mayor. Cr Fogg said Marlborough was the most generous town in Britain for help given and also upheld a great tradition. He emphasised Marlborough's status in art and education and announced a new literary festival later in the year and the appointment of Brian Hanlon as Marlborough's Artist in Residence saying there would be an exhibition of Brian's excellent work later in the year. Cr Fogg has researched the 23 other Marlboroughs in the world and on Monday night introduced Allan Scott from Marlborough, New Zealand, the home of many fine wines, some of which were sampled at the mayoral reception along with mussels from Marlborough Sound. Cr Fogg praised the work of Cr Dow saying she had served with compassion and love and had raised nearly £10,000 for her special Mayor's charitable fund. theweeklyadviser.com

FEARS OF FRESH VIOLENCE AFTER QUIET WEEKEND
11.5.09 4pm: Hungerford residents are fearful of a return of violence between warring gangs from Thatcham and Newbury. Residents feel that police will need to be vigilant to prevent gangs clashing again at Hungerford. The previous weekend saw violence and bloodshed on a scale not previously encountered at Hungerford. Meanwhile, Hungerford residents today reported a relatively quiet weekend as many police watched the town for disturbances. There were no reports of serious trouble and the police strategy of searching youths at Newbury Railway Station appeared to pay off. Plans are understood to be under way for a more regular police attendance at Hungerford Police Station. theweeklyadviser.com

I'VE HAD ENOUGH SAYS HUNGERFORD RESIDENT
11.5.09 11am: An elderly Hungerford resident is preparing to sell up and leave the town because of lawlessnes and lack of safety. Not wishing to be named, she said she had complained to police and to District Councillor David Holtby but the town remained a dangerous place for elderly people. She said police should be in place when needed. theweeklyadviser.com

"IBEX BEST COMMUNITY PUB"
11.5.09 12.30pm: The Ibex at Chaddleworth has been named Best Community Pub for 2009 by West Berkshire Branch on the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) -from John Cameron-Hayes. theweeklyadviser.com

PARISHIONERS PRAY TO OBTAIN NEW MINISTER
11.5.09 11am: The congregation at St Mary's Church, Chilton Foliat was yesterday asked to pray for a new rector. About 15 people have shown interest in the position but none have yet applied. The vacancy occurred with resignation of The Rev.John and Sandy Railton last year. theweeklyadviser.com

POLICE AVERT HUNGERFORD SHOWDOWN
9/5/09 10 am: Dozens of police are reported to have averted a showdown between rival gangs of youths at Hungerford last night. Acting on information, the police concentrated on Newbury Railway Station questioning and searching youths heading for Hungerford. The police action followed major clashes at Hungerford on the previous Friday and Monday in which at least two people were seriously injured and nine arrests made. The strong police presence in Hungerford was said to have kept many known troublemakers at home. SEE ITEMS BELOW theweeklyadviser.com

Hungerford PROBUS Club celebrates 10 years
9/5/09 10am; President Bob Gray of Hungerford Rotary Club was guest at last months PROBUS luncheon when The PROBUS Club of Hungerford celebrated its first ten years. Founder Chairman Ron Rowland reminisced and reported that PROBUS had started in 1999 with just a few stalwart members and now has a membership of sixty six retired professional and business men and women living in the Hungerford, Lambourn or Kintbury areas. Ron went on to mention the 100 plus luncheons, the social events and holidays
enjoyed by members over the previous ten years and explained that formation of the PROBUS Club had been an initiative by Hungerford Rotary Club and that Rotary had presented the Club with its chairman’s jewel.President Bob congratulated the Club on its success and wished it well for the next decade. Further information about membership of Hungerford PROBUS club is
available from the membership secretary, Pat Smalley, 01488 684127

MODEL FOR VILLAGE SCHOOLS
8/5/09 3pm: St John’s School in Marlborough and Easton Royal Primary School near Pewsey have established a unique new agreement which is designed to improve educational opportunities by providing an all-through education for children age 4 through to 19. The agreement, known as a “Soft Federation” is a collaboration that will have a positive impact on children and staff while maintaining the independence of the two schools. Easton Royal children will benefit from greater continuity in the curriculum as they move between schools, and there will be opportunities for the two schools to share teaching & administrative resources, leading to cost savings which will be re-invested in the curriculum. This is a first for Wiltshire and is establishing a new model for education from age 4 to age 19. Other federations already exist in the county, but none that create a direct link between primary & secondary schools. The governors at Easton Royal were keen to find a way of securing the long term future of their school. Easton Royal Chair of Governors Shelley Whitehead who is a regional finalist for the 'Governor of the Year Awards said:
“ We are a small village school that is ranked as Outstanding by Ofsted. We have watched the challenges faced by other small rural schools and were determined to create a path for our school that would secure its future. We believe that community schools such as ours are a vital resource that should be preserved and the partnership with St John’s will not only benefit our children but also give our staff additional opportunities for professional development whilst ensuring a sustainable school model”.
Although Easton Royal School is in the Pewsey Vale School catchment area the majority of Year Six children at the school have historically moved to St John’s for their secondary education. The transition from a small rural primary to a large secondary school can sometimes be a difficult time for children, and the Federation will help to overcome these concerns as the children will develop a closer relationship with St John’s.
The Federation has found a unique way to tackle the issue. The appointment of a new teacher at Easton Royal, due to start in September, will not only teach the junior age children for 3.5 days a week, but will also provide a “friendly” face at St John’s, where they will teach for 1.5 days every week and provide real continuity for pupils. St John’s already has a good relationship with the 12 primary schools in its 250 square mile catchment area, and the school helps many young people prepare for their move to secondary school by sending its own teachers into the local primary schools to hold regular teaching sessions and organising sporting events and festivals. Easton Royal staff already work with other local schools within both the Pewsey and Marlborough catchments and will now benefit from these additional arrangements. St John’s Headteacher Dr Patrick Hazlewood sees many benefits from this type of arrangement. “ I am conscious of the difficulties faced by small village schools in the area and this is a way St John’s can help to make a real difference. We have had excellent support from Wiltshire Council in setting up the Federation and we will now work closely with Easton Royal over the coming months to closely monitor the benefits to the children, staff and to both schools. We will certainly look at opportunities for expanding the Federation as the benefits of partnership working become evident”.
Senior staff will be closely involved with both schools. Dr Hazlewood will take on the role of Federation Principal, and the newly appointed Headteacher of Easton Royal School Mrs Nicola Coupe will take on the Vice-Principal position, as well as holding a non-executive role in the St John’s leadership team.

HUNGERFORD DEFIES DEPRESSION
8/5/09 2.05pm: More Hungerford businesses are reportedly doing record or near record figures in the storm of the depression that has hit many and closed many businesses elsewhere and to some extent in Hungerford. The Adviser is being told of healthy house sales, car sales, groceries and more. The new Tesco superstore is accounting for a major influx of visitors, some of which have never seriously shopped in Hungerford before. Added to this The Adviser has been told by a leading businessman that his shop is receiving new customers coming to Hungerford to shop at Tesco. theweeklyadviser.com

FREE HUNGERFORD PARKING FOR MANY
8/5/09 2pm:District Councillors David Holtby and Paul Hewer have reported the following free parking news to Hungerford Chamber of Commerce chairman Ben Blake. David Holtby writes: I am delighted to report that Paul and I have been party to successful negotiations, aimed at bringing a little relief to hard-pressed traders in the town. On Market Days, Wednesdays, during the period 10 June – 22 July 2009 (a total of 7 Wednesdays), parking will be free in the Church Street and Station Road Car Parks after 1000 hours – the late start will ensure that the benefit goes to shoppers, rather than commuters. The dispensation does not extend to on-street parking. Similar shoppers’ schemes will be evident in Newbury, Pangbourne and Thatcham.

POLICE PREPARE FOR BATTLE IN HUNGERFORD
8/5/09 9.30am: Dozens of uniformed and plain clothes police are preparing to counter a predicted clash of armed gangs in Hungerford tonight. Gang members, some as young as 14, are reported to be planning a return attack on Hungerford youths after last weekend's mayhem when two people were seriously injured and at least nine arrests made. Youths rampaged around Hungerford Railway Station, the nearby supermarket and Hungerford common. The riot squad was among police called in to quell the trouble, a helicopter was stationed overhead and trains were stopped running between Newbury and Hungerford. Reports indicate that Hungerford has been picked out by wayward youths as a "soft spot" because of its recent low level of policing, particularly at weekends. But all this is likely to be changed with an application for a further police officer at Hungerford and attendance at the police station becoming more regular. The trouble co-incides with a sharp increase in criminal activity in the town with burglary and shop lifting (see article BELOW). On Monday it was reported "the very serious incident" was counter-productive to all Hungerford is trying to do to boost its tourism and appeal to visitors. Around 50 police will be on duty at Newbury Railway Station and in Hungerford tonight in plain clothes and uniform and groups of four or more will be stopped and searched at Newbury Railway Station. A police armed response unit will be in the area. Questions are being asked about the need for warning the public of the trouble. Some Hungerford parents are reported to have been advised to keep their children indoors and the question is being asked as to whether shopkeepers should be prepared to board up their premises. In incidents last Friday and Monday, youths were "tooled up" for the fight with bottles, knives and other weapons. they arrived in Hungerford on trains and in about 40 cars. Police have noted many car registration numbers and are aware of trouble makers. They say arrests and prosecutions do not seem to be solving the youth problem in the area. theweeklyadviser.com

CRIMINAL ACTIVITY SURGE AT HUNGERFORD
8/5/09 9.30am: Police and residents are reporting a surge in burglary and shoplifting in Hungerford. In one street three houses in a row were burgled and thousands of pounds of goods have been stolen. To date no warnings or descriptions of goods taken have been made. One house on The Green had professional photographic equipment stolen and a nearby house lost more than £4000 of goods. theweeklyadviser.com

GREAT WOMEN REPORTERS COMING
Great women reporters hit Hungerford as part of Independent Bookseller’s Week.
Two legendary reporters are due to visit Hungerford as part of Independent Bookseller’s Week (15th – 22nd June). Over 350 independent bookshops are expected to take part nationally, and The Hungerford Bookshop has organised two talks & signings.
Kate Adie will be talking at The Bear Hotel on Wednesday June 17th at 7pm. Her new book Into Danger: Risking Your Life for Your Work explores why people, including herself, are attracted to danger. Kate Adie was chief news correspondent for BBC News during which time she earned a reputation as being one of the most intrepid women of her day.
Dame Ann Leslie is one of the most influential journalists in recent times. She too has reported from war zones around the world, and later specialised in showbusiness - notable encounters include David Niven, James Mason and Mohammed Ali. She will be talking about her eventful life, captured in her memoir, Killing my Own Snakes, at Azuza Coffee Shop on Friday June 19th at 7pm.Tickets for both events are available from The Hungerford Bookshop (01488 683480).

NEW HUNGERFORD MAYOR AND DEPUTY TAKE OVER
Hungerford's new mayor is Cr Elizabeth Cardwell and her deputy is Cr Jenny Booth.They took over leadership of Hungerford Town Council at Monday night's council meeting. Both add a youthful touch to council leadership and both are determined to give their best for the town. Cr Cardwell's mayoral nomination was on the motion of outgoing mayor Peter Harries seconded by Cr Gwynneth bullock. She was elected unanimously. A Hungerford girl through and through she said she was very honoured to take the position and to accept what would be very challenging. Cr Booth said she too was honoured to be elected to the post and she hoped she would always be there to help when Cr Cardwell needed her. Cr Anthony Buckwell was elected chairman of the finance and general purposes committee. He took over from Cr Gwynneth Bullock. Outgoing mayor Cr Peter Harries thanked all for their support. He said everyone worked particularly hard and the council was now "fit for purpose". He particularly mentioned his wife Shirley and Crs Bullock, Hudson, Cardwell, Liddiard, Wilson and Desmeules and said that all councillors had worked very hard. He particularly referred to Jenny and Claire in the office. Cr Bullock said "you have been a particularly outstanding mayor with diligence and hard work". Cr Rod Desmeules said there were great forward strides in the past two years. He said the mayor's business Odd Jobb should more appropraitely be titled Great Job. His versatility in his work had led to his wide understanding of the mayoral duties and responsibilities. Cr Buckwell said "you were always there when needed". Cr Harries was applauded and received Three Cheers. Cr Buckwell, a professional banker said the council owed a lot to Cr Bullock who had taken the council to credit rather than debit. Cr Cardwell said Cr Bullock stepped in to the F & GP committee after a difficult year and placed the council in a very strong position. Cr Bullock warned of tough times ahead saying the baby boomers were retiring on more modest incomes than expected and very low interest rates were adding to the problem. theweeklyadviser.com

HUNGERFORD ALLOTMENTS BEING WORKED
It's all in the pipeline at Hungerford's new allotments which are being worked. Cr Peter Harries told the last Hungerford Town Council meeting the project had been an up and down struggle and various agreements were being drawn up. Efforts were being made to obtain a water supply and he assured that it was "all in the pipeline". theweeklyadviser.com

TESCO SETS OFF HUNGERFORD BOOM
All district roads are reportedly leading to Hungerford as hundreds of people eagerly seek Tesco Superstore's bargains.The rush from Marlborough and outlying areas is adding to local pressure and creating a major traffic problem in central Hungerford. At Monday night's Hungerford Town council meeting Deputy Mayor Jennie Booth told councillors there had been a huge increase in traffic from outlying villages and Marlborough and hopefully other shops were benefitting. theweeklyadviser.com

RIVAL GANGS FIGHT AT HUNGERFORD STATION
Rival gangs from Newbury, Thatcham and Hungerford areas were reported to have fought a vicious battle at Hungerford Railway Station and on Hungerford Common on Monday. A member of the public reported a battle on Hungerford Railway footridge. A person appearing to be a policeman was reported to have bravely stood his ground on the bridge in an attempt to keep apart around 50 youths and adults from both platforms. His efforts were unsuccessful and he was thrown aside. Four or five police cars arrived about 10 minutes after the fight started around 5.30pm and a helicopter hovered overhead. Trains to Hungerford were stopped from Newbury. Fighting was said to have followed the serious injury of a youth in an earlier encounter at Hungerford. Many youths were questioned by police on the spot and some at Hungerford police station which was busy for several hours.There were no reports of arrests.The police press office said they had no information on the incident and were investigating. theweeklyadviser.com

CROWN NEEDLEWORK WINS
Crown Needlework won the Hungerford Chamber of Commerce Tutti Day window display contest. Joint second came Sugar Mouse, Kitchenmonger and Tutti Pole with Prospect, Nye and Co and Below Stairs joint third. Judges were Mark Llewellyn and the Tutti Girls.

WIN TO HUNGERFORD BOOKSHOP
Hungerford Bookshop has won its region for the best independent bookshop and is one of five bookshops listed for Independent Bookshop of The Year.

CHEEKY MONKEYS TEAPARTY
Marlborough NCT Dresses Up For Some Cheeky Antics!
Looking for a free fun day out whilst donating money to a charity? Then why not take part in the Marlborough NCT Cheeky Monkey’s Tea Party and Cake Sale at Burbage Village Hall on Friday 29 May from 10am till noon?
This year’s event is a fancy dress bash and will be bigger and better then ever before – with lots of monkeying around and delicious cakes!
Parents and carers of babies/children under 5 and ‘bumps’ are welcome, so don your cheeky little monkeys in their favourite dress up or home-made creation, and turn up on the day to take part in the fun! There will be prizes for the best-dressed, the best fancy dress effort and the cheekiest monkey!
The morning promises to be entertaining with plenty of toys and fun and games for the children, including face painting and musical dance, while the adults can enjoy the arts and crafts stalls with a cuppa and a slice of cake!
Entrance is free and there will be a small charge for tea and cakes so make sure you arrive early to get the first pick of the scrumptious cake selection!
Marlborough NCT Chairman Tamara Reay says; “Our NCT Cheeky Monkey’s Tea Party is going to be an enjoyable morning with lots of monkey business! All money raised will go towards supporting the charity’s vital support and information. So why not swing on by?” The NCT Cheeky Monkey’s Tea Party is the charity’s biggest fundraising event of the year with up to 300 events taking place around the UK. This year’s appeal is to raise funds for the creation and development of an Early Days helpline for new parents. Setting up this helpline will ensure that all new parents have easy access to information and support in the postnatal period, including help with emotional, physical and social changes involved in the transition to parenthood For more information on Marlborough NCT Cheeky Monkey’s Tea Party please contact Anna Wilson on 07971 205064 or annaandiain@btinternet.com.

SWINE 'FLU CONCERN GROWS DAILY
With the threat of swine 'flu growing daily, The Hungerford and Marlborough Weekly Adviser is making its website theweeklyadviser.com available to health authorities to issue official statements and warnings. As a service to the community and the health authorities, the information will be placed on the webstie as soon as possible after reception.The widespread confirmed cases of swine 'flu in the world indicate that it has been spreading for some weeks. There had been no reported suspected cases in The Adviser area on Wednesday afternoon. theweeklyadviser.com

BENALLA ROTARY SAYS "THANKYOU" FOR BUSHFIRE CHEQUE
Benalla Rotary Club in Victoria, Australia has written to Hungerford Rotary Club to thank it for its donation of more than £1000 to the Victorian Bushfire appeal. The Benalla club will send photographs to Hungerford club of the way in which the funds have been spent. The fires killed nearly 200 people and destroyed more than 2000 homes leaving thousands of people homeless. A Royal Commission is being held into the disaster. theweeklyadviser.com

MARLBOROUGH ARTS MONTHS
Marlborough would have a Monday art market in July, August and September, Chris Davey told the last Marlborough Area Development Trust (MADT) meeting. The market would supplement many summer art community projects in the town.

MARLBOROUGH ST GEORGE'S CENTRE
Marlborough could become a hub of patriotic activity for St. George's Day next year. Chamber of Commerce president Peter Davison told the last Marlborough Area Development Trust (MADT) meeting he proposed attending Salibury's St George's Day activities this year and would report back.

HUNGERFORD A4 BYPASS "VERY MUCH A DEAD ISSUE"
Hungerford's A4 bypass appears "very much a dead issue" Hungerford Chamber of Commerce President Ben Blake says in the chamber's latest newsletter. The bypass, which had high priority on the town's 2010 plan was discussed at the last Hungerford Town council meeting. In 2001 80% of people interviewed supported the bypass. It was at a time of extensive roadworks in the town centre. theweeklyadviser.com

HUNGERFORD ROTARY PLEDGE AUCTION
Hungerford Rotary Club will hold a pledge auction in The Corn Exchange on Saturday, May 16 with proceeds going to the NSPCC and ChildLine. Tickets of £25 include a 3-course dinner and a wine bar will be available for drinks. theweeklyadviser.com

CONCERN OVER ROAD JUNCTION
Hungerford Town Council's last meeting was told of concern at safety on the Salisbury road roundabout. There had been a number of near accidents. theweeklyadviser.com

MARLBOROUGH PROTEST CHAOS
About 100 people tried to crush into Marlborough Town Council's chamber on Monday night in a move to gain council backing to restore their "dying" town. The crowd moved to adequate space in the courtroom to be heard by the Mayor Cr P. Dow and other councillors. Townspeople are seeking a supermarket and better parking arrangements. They were not happy with Marlborough shopping facilities and almost all of them said they shopped out of town. Cr Dow said she had written to a number of supermarket chains seeking their establishment in Marlborough. theweeklyadviser.com

MARLBOROUGH WELCOMES THE ARMY
Marlborough Town Council is likely to form a close association with the 43rd Military Inteligence Brigade, a special Army unit based in the south. The town council's last meeting heard an address by Lt. Col. Ben Kite and his regimental sergeant major. Col Kite said a close association would benefit his unit and he hoped would also benefit Marlborough in many ways. He was well received by council and the matter is being placed on the next xouncil agenda. theweeklyadviser.com

HUNGERFORD IN BLOOM
July 4 has been set for Hungerford in Bloom. Cr Margaret Wilson told the last Hungerford Town council meeting there would be two judges from Kintbury and sections to cover private and commercial aspects. the weekly adviser.com

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