If Devizes’ celebrated FullTone Festival is to relocate to Whistley Road’s Park Farm for next summer’s extravaganza, what better way to give it the rustic feel than The Wurzels, who have just been announced on the line-up?!
If Somerset’s Scrumpy and Western genre has fermented longer than a cider press from folk roots, it’s surely The Wurzels who brought mass attention to it with their number one parody of Melanie’s Brand New Key, The Combine Harvester. The staggering thing about this is, it was in 1976, but what’s more staggering, is people are still singing it today, and likely will be at FullTone Festival on 11th & 12th July 2026!
Organiser of FullTone, Jemma Brown said of the booking, “there’s not much more we can say to that!” But you know me, I’ve always got something to say, and I’m saying that is a fantastic surprise which only remains to add to the already brilliant show the orchestra and guest acts will deliver.
What else we do know at this early stage, is the huge fifty-piece orchestra will play through sets of Holst’s The Planets & Star Wars, a Symphonic Queen with Ricardo Afonso, The Best of Motown, an eighties spectacular and Devizes-own BBC radio DJ James Threlfall will be on the dance anthems.
If I wonder what songs the Wurzels will play, top choice has to be I’ll Never Get a Scrumpy Here, which contains the line, “’Cos you never get surprises livin’ in Devizes,” and spurred my rant column of the same name, you might remember it. I did write to them to ask permission, they were too busy drinking cider to be in any way concerned. I asked if it was sly stab at our brewery, or that Devizes was as far eastward they favour to venture, but they explained it was used because it rhymed! Well, they’re venturing here in July, and if they give us the key, we can all have a brand new combine harvester.
Well, we did it! I sincerely hope you had a great night at the first Wiltshire Music Awards as we filled the Devizes Corn Exchange with a cross-section of people involved in the music scene of Wiltshire, musicians and fans. Positive feedback already, and a few teething issues, noted, which we must take onboard and learn from….
But for those who unfortunately couldn’t make it, I guess you are eager to hear the results. Let’s do this easy bit first! But before we do, I ask you, please, to take a few issues into consideration. Firstly, there was a monumental process to arrange, coordinate and launch during and also months prior to the ceremony. From the voting process and organisation of a panel of judges, to decorating the tables and corresponding all those trophies to each category.
So many volunteered their time to help with this, and we are extremely grateful to them. Overall, the management of the whole process and ceremony was carried out by Eddie Prestidge of Stone Circle Music Events. Eddie worked arduously on this project, and was dedicated to creating an extravagant event to be remembered. With the help of so many volunteers, myself included, stage tech and the staff of the Corn Exchange, I believe we achieved this to the best of our abilities, and a fantastic evening was had by most.
There should have been one more trophy, it should’ve been big, extra shiny, and presented to Eddie for his dedication and the tireless work he put into this. Exhausted, Eddie fell ill a few days before the ceremony, but strode through it the best that he could. The end result of this was that he was rushed into hospital a few hours prior to the conclusion of the ceremony. I have heard from him this morning, and he’s doing okay.
If you witnessed me on the sideline, rushing up and down the stairs like a headless chicken, it wasn’t my step aerobics workout, it was because I was honouring my part as co-host on stage but attempting to coordinate the floor as well, as best as possible, as Ed seriously needed to take a step back. Whilst the beginning therefore went to plan, as the evening progressed we stumbled on issues, but I ask you to please take this into consideration if you’re intending to criticise the evening on social media. I apologise for any breakdowns in communication, but the condition was out of our control and we strived through best we could.
Results
The results, then. Congratulations to everyone who bagged an award, commiserations to those who did not. To those unable to attend, we have trophies reserved for you and will arrange the best way to get them to you as soon as possible.
Best Venue. Sponsored by Pat Robertson of Trowbridge Motor Supplies ltd.
Runners Up: The Royal Oak, Pewsey. The Vic, Swindon.
Winner: The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Best DJ: Sponsored by Mark Anthony Burdge.
Runners Up: Maurice Menghini – DJ Mister M. Mark Lister of Fantasy Radio.
Winner: Paul Alexander of Solstice Sounds, This is How We Do It Entertainment.
Best Drummer.
Runners Up: Tom Gilkes. Callum Rawlings.
Winner: Jamie O’ Sullivan.
Best Bassist. Presented by Alex Morgan of Waldrop Salisbury Sounds.
Runners Up: Nick Gorman. Nick Beere.
Winner: Mark Turner.
Best Guitarist.
Runners Up: Alastair Sneddon. Nick Beere.
Winner: Jolyon Dixon.
Best Duo.
Runners Up: Jolyon Dixon & Rachel Sinnetta. The Sylvertones.
Winner: Matchbox Mutiny.
Best Covers Band. Sponsored by Simon Woolley of The Three Crowns, Devizes.
Runners Up: Pinky & The Slapcats. The Unpredictables.
Winner: The Brit-Pop Boys.
Best Original Band: Sponsored By Peggy-Sue Ford of Don’t Stop the Music on Swindon 105.5 Radio.
Runners Up: Nothing Rhymes With Orange. Burn The Midnight Oil.
Winner: Talk in Code.
Best Tribute Act.
Runners Up: Painted Bird. BC/DC.
Winner: Mick Jogger & The Stones Experience.
Best Female Artist.
Runners Up: Sammi Evans. Rosie Jay.
Winner: Ruby Darbyshire.
Best Male Artist. Presented by Lesley Scholes of Fantasy Radio.
Runners Up: Lucas Hardy. Vince Bell.
Winner: George Wilding.
Best Original Song.
Runners Up: I Don’t Give a Damn by Rosie Jay. Do I Really Have The Blues by JP Oldfield.
Winner: All In by Talk in Code.
Best Instrumentalist.
Runners Up: Ruby Darbyshire. Andrew Hurst.
Winner: Jolyon Dixon.
Rising Star New Comer.
Runners Up: Ruby Darbyshire. Rosie Jay.
Winner: JP Oldfield.
Best Vocalist.
Runners Up: Chris Stevens. Lucas Hardy.
Winner: Rachel Sinnetta.
There were four special awards given out on the evening which didn’t receive runner-up places as according to the information given to the hosts. If there was an oversight about this, we apologise.
Outstanding Contribution to The Wiltshire Music Scene was won by Colin Holton of Salisbury Live.
Outstanding Contribution to Music in the Community was won by Jo Baines Robbins.
A Special Award was given to Wiltshire Hop & Harmony, The Wotton Bassett Dementia Choir. The Second Special Award was presented to Brian Mundy of BMS Stage Tech.
A Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Peter Lamb.
Ruby Darbyshire opened the evening with a bagpipe song and two others, as a surprise special guest.
We also had live performances from Nothing Rhymes With Orange, Burn The Midnight Oil, Lucas Hardy, Matchbox Mutiny, George Wilding, and The Britpop Boys. Due to technical issues, Jolyon Dixon and Rachel Sinnetta were unable to perform.
I would like to sincerely thank our panel of judges.
And, Ruby and Brian Darbyshire
The Britpop Boys
Burn The Midnight Oil
Matchbox Mutiny
Lucas Hardy
Jolyon Dixon & Rachel Sinnetta
George Wilding
Nothing Rhymes With Orange
Sponsors:
Val Bewley VB Arts Studios
Alex Organ Wardrop Salisbury Sounds
Colin Howton Salisbury Live
Pam Robertson – Trowbridge Motor Supplies
Simon Woolley – Three Crowns, Devizes
Peggy-Sue Ford – Swindon 105.5 Radio
Mark Jones & Lesley Scholes- Fantasy Radio
And a sponsor and our host DJ Mark Anothony and wife Sandra.
Thanks to Anya and Marc of Soupchick.
To Ian and all the staff at the Corn Exchange
To Brian Mundy and BMS Stage Tech.
To everyone who got behind this, I thank you.
Anthony & Jemma Brown for helping us set up.
Charlotte & Moray MacDonald for help on the front desk.
But massive thanks goes to Eddie Prestidge and Stone Circle Music Events
And finally, thank you for coming, supporting the local live music scene.
The spookiest of half terms is nearly upon us again; kids excited, parents not quite so much! But hey, as well as Halloween, here’s what family fun and activities we’ve found locally to pass the time, save on Haribo and prevent wine 0’clock overloading…..
There’s a list of pumpkin patches at the end! What more do you want?!
Have a fangtastic fortnight, and oh, and come back to spook this list again soon, as I’m sure more will be added!
Wed 15th
Okay, let’s kick off early, Wednesday 15th, school gates still open, but St Thomas’ Church Trowbridge has a Brownie Trail session from 6:45, find the link below…..
Rag and Bone Arts CIC‘s recurring event in Chippenham for ages 12+. You can do art and design or acting improvisation, delivered in 10 week blocks. Taught by professional actor Rebecca Osborne, learn how to think on your feet, respond and listen and make up scenes using just your brilliant mind and spontaneous ideas.
With over 4.5 million social media followers and countless TV appearances under his belt, Pete Firman is the UK’s top comic magician. Join him for an evening of ‘Tricks & Giggles’, as Pete brings his trademark blend of magic and comedy from the small screen to stages around the UK with this brand-new show. Expect impossible feats, sleight of hand and big laughs from one of magic’s most exciting performers! As seen on Amazon’s Good Omens, ITV1’s Tonight at the London Palladium and The Next Great Magician, BBC1’s The John Bishop Show and The Sarah Millican Television Programme. He’s probably also popped up on your social media feeds with his mind-boggling and regularly viral magic videos. Age restriction: 11+.
Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little ones… and their grown-ups!
We’re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Don’t worry – nothing too scary for the babies and Littles… or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers – think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.
Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!
Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval. Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!
Journey to the Centre of the Earth @ Pound Arts, Corsham
Standard: £15
Lamphouse Theatre presents … Journey to the Centre of the Earth!
Take a break Rick Wakeman, back to your trailer Brendan Fraser, watch and learn Jules Verne, Lamphouse are going on a journey all the way to the centre of the Earth! Two intrepid explorers, one impossible mission (featuring at least one joke about a big hole), and no special effects budget whatsoever. What could possibly go wrong?
From the makers of War of the Worlds (On a Budget) and Frankenstein (On a Budget) this new comedy take on Jules Verne’s classic novel will be one epic night out, full of belly laughs, brand new music and really impressive* dinosaurs.
Featuring Tom Fox and Becky Owen-Fisher, the familiar faces behind the On a Budget series, Journey to the Centre of the Earth will be another fan favourite. Expect silly jokes, catchy tunes, ridiculous costumes and lots and lots of cardboard.
Come along to the 1st Devizes Halloween Bingo for an afternoon full of treats and spooky fun at 1st Devizes scout hall 29 Southbroom Rd Devizes SN10 5AD. Eyes down 4pm–6pm. Bingo games for everyone. Fancy dress – come in your best Halloween costume! Prizes & goodie bags. Yummy food and refreshments. Raffle with lots of surprises. The perfect way to enjoy Halloween with the whole family!
It’s Trowbridge Carnival, see the link below for details!
Join Waterstones, 29 Borough Parade, Chippenham SN15 3WL for their Sunday afternoon storytime where they will be reading the slimy ‘The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster’ by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter. All are welcome.
Mon 20th
Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun @ Pound Arts, Corsham
Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little ones… and their grown-ups!
We’re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Don’t worry – nothing too scary for the babies and Littles… or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers – think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.
Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!
Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval. Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!
Our friendly historian Brian Edwards has a talk on white horses in Pewsey. I’m not sure how family-friendly this will be, but budding historians might find it of interest.
Running until Saturday 25th. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers. The production ran for more than 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only five musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail). The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True. Age Guidance: 12+
Wed 22 – Sat 25 Oct • 3pm & 7:30pm • Admission £15 • Community Theatre
By Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss Presented by Merriman Productions
His-story’s about to get overthrown… again! Back by popular demand, Merriman Productions present SIX: TEEN EDITION; a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’ international phenomenon SIX, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences.
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the mic to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st-century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.
All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the café for the workshop to finish.
Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are £9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.
All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the café for the workshop to finish.
Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are £9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.
Our awesome Parks and Open Spaces crew is rolling out their tractors, electric vehicles, and cool machinery for you to explore – talk about a joyride!
This year, we’re joined by Arty Kids Pottery Painting, Crazy Cheeks face painting and Chloe’s Mobile Farm. And don’t forget to flex those brain muscles with our Halloween themed word search – go on a letter hunt around the park and see if you can conjure up the spooky words!
Dress to impress in your Halloween finest! The Deputy Mayor will be on the lookout for the best costumes at 1:30pm right outside the Café – and there are prizes up for grabs in these categories:
Ages 6 and under
Ages 7-12
Ages 13+ (adults, unleash your inner ghoul!)
Come for the fun, stay for the spooky vibes – see you in the park!
This October half term, The Woodbridge Inn is bringing the community together for a spooktacular celebration—and everyone’s invited!
Dates: Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October Thursday 30th & Friday 31st October Fest opens at 12PM | Fun until 6PM
What’s waiting for you: Pumpkin Picking Craft & Produce Market – handmade gifts, bakes, jams, plants, sweets & more Sweet & Cake Stalls Arts & Crafts Activities Face Painting & Hair Braiding Burgers, Hot Dogs & Autumn Eats Fun Tarot Readings Live Music & Autumn Vibes Beer, Wine & Seasonal Sips from the Bar
Whether you’re here to shop, snack, sip, or simply soak up the spooky atmosphere, this is a celebration for all ages. We’re proud to support local businesses and bring our community together for a few days of festive fun.
The Parade Cinema Marlborough Family Halloween Trail
Our annual halloween trail makes it’s return on Saturday 25th October at The Parade Cinema Marlborough!
Each ticket purchase for Corpse Bride or Hotel Transylvania on the 25th October gives a child a free spot on our yearly Halloween Trail around Marlborough, open from 11am to 2:30pm. We expect the trail to take around 45 minutes to complete, so last entry for the trail will be 1:45pm.
Book your tickets now… if your dare! www.theparadecinema.com 01672 646232 (Between 10am & 7pm)
Longleat Ghost Tours
This October Half Term, Ghost Tours are making a spooky return during Longleat’s Great British Autumn event. Longleat House was built between 1567 – 1580, and it is believed to still have people who featured in its history making their presence felt. Discover the supernatural stories as expert guides reveal the tale of Lady Louisa Carteret, known as the Grey Lady, who is said to still walk the corridors searching for her lover.
Kids’ Halloween Spooktacular @ Broadtown Brewery – Hop Chapel and Hop Gardens, Lydiard Tregoze
Bring the kids along to The Hop Chapel on Saturday 25th October from 1 – 3pm as we transform The Old Brewhouse into The Old BOO-house!!
🎃 We’ll have two whole hours full of Halloween fun, with pumpkin carving, ghoulish games and more (all treats no tricks, we promise – we don’t want to scare your little ones!)
👻 We’ll have a prizes up for grabs for the best pumpkin design, best pumpkin carving and the best dressed, so don’t forget your costumes!
from 25th Oct to 2nd Nov 2025, get out into the great outdoors this October half term for an insect-themed trail around the 270 acres of parkland. £2.50 per trail (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Running 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm.
Looking for a fun and creative way to spend time with your child or grandchild this October? Our Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience is the perfect school holiday activity—designed for adults and children aged 5 & up to enjoy side-by-side.
Hosted by The Southwest’s Chocolate Champion, Holly Garner, this joyful and cosy experience is all about making sweet memories together as the autumn chill sets in.
🍫 Start with a hot chocolate treat Warm up with a choice from our Ultimate Hot Chocolate Menu—featuring 12 indulgent flavours to begin your chocolate-filled day.
🌍 Discover where chocolate comes from Taste raw cocoa beans, sample our signature blends, and learn how chocolate is made—plus how we support small, ethical cocoa farms around the world.
👉🏻Make & decorate your own chocolates Roll up your sleeves and create your own delicious chocolate treats to take home (if they don’t get eaten first!).
🎁 Enjoy a special shopping discount Take home even more chocolatey joy with an exclusive Hollychocs discount on the day.
Rowdey Cow Halloween Festivities
Perfect for parents, grandparents and carers looking for something memorable to do with their children this autumn. Whether it’s bonding time, a school holiday treat or a special birthday surprise—this is time well (and sweetly) spent.
Join us at the Rowdey Cow for our halloween festivities
Pick a pumpkin from its patch & come in to carve your spooky artwork!
Join us for a more relaxed visit at the REME Museum during this special opening outside of our regular hours.
We have designed these ‘Lights Up, Sounds Down’ days to reduce sensory input for individuals who would prefer a quieter experience. These sessions are primarily for, though not limited to, anyone who has sensory processing disorder; autism; social, emotional or mental health needs; dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or any other sensory needs.
During these days we will have:
Lights On – our overhead gallery lighting will be turned on, without spotlights, to create a brighter environment in which to explore. Sounds Down – we will reduce sound effects throughout the museum as much as possible by turning off most ‘surround sound’ interactives and reducing volumes. Sensory maps – we have marked out any areas around the museum where you may find louder interactives or visual effects that we cannot turn off. This means you can choose your own route and avoid any areas as you wish.
If you would like to bring any sensory items (including but not limited to ear defenders, magnifying glass, book, squeezy toy) that will help you or your loved one to enjoy their experience better, please feel free to do so, just make sure you hold onto it and take it home with you!
Join Filskit Theatre for an uplifting and relaxing hour with a talented live musician playing beautiful acoustic versions of well-known folk, jazz and pop songs. Enjoyable for both big and small ears alike there’ll be beautiful, atmospheric sensory visuals perfect for even the youngest audience members. And, as it’s halt term, bigger kids are welcome too so bring them along for this hour of fun and sensory play for the whole family.
October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes
October Holiday ActivitiesLecture Hall 28th October 2025 10:30 am – 12:00 pm 10:30 am – 12:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets…
Book OnlineOctober Holiday ActivitiesLecture Hall 28th October 2025 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm 1:30 pm – 3:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets.
Art Workshop in Rowde
On Tuesday morning, the 28th of October, from 9am to 12 noon, an Art Workshop takes place, at The Mind Tree Cafe in Rowde. It’s creative fun with collage and mixed media, hosted by Nancy Rose. It’s £30 for the session, and you must book in advance by emailing nancyrosehats@yahoo.com
This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.
‘Rocket Powered’ – Tuesday 28 October Drop-in, Education Suite
Design and launch your own bottle rocket or air powered car, using the same principles of engineering in rocket science! Led by our Education Officer, Andrew.
Miniature Assault Course – Every day 28-31 October Drop-in, outdoors
Take on our miniature army-style assault course! Race your way across the course or take your time and enjoy the challenge! Please note: This activity is weather dependent.
Princess Pirate @ Pound Arts, Corsham
Adult: £10 Child: £10 Under 2s: FREE
Pirate Princess is a heartwarming story of hope against adversity told with physical theatre, clowning and circus. This brand new solo show by circus performer and professional idiot Gemma Bond tells the tale of poor shipwrecked Princess Poppy. Can she overcome a big dress, extreme weather and the ultimate test of strength to see her way to safety?
Inspired by strong and inventive women of history, Poppy must transform physically and mentally if she is to have any hope of rescuing herself from eternity on an island in the ocean. The show encourages all to reuse, repurpose and recycle as Poppy reinvents her outfit and her mindset to overcome her predicament.
A visual feast of colourful costume and a unique crow’s nest on a pole prop, this is a fun filled show for children aged 5 to 11 and their families.
All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the café for the workshop to finish.
Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are £9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.
The Sheep Ate Up The Fairies @ Trowbridge Museum
3 days of captivating talks, hands-on crafts & engaging activities start today!
A one hour boat trip on Friday 31st October at 16:00 and 18:00 along the canal packed with fun and games for the children. Fancy dress welcome.
Please Note: Dogs are accepted at the discretion of the Skipper on the day who will check with other passengers first. Family tickets not available.
Children must be accompanies by at least one adult.
Kenavon Venture is a wide beam boat, seating up to 38 passengers, operated by volunteers of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust. To book a private charter of this or any other trip, please send an enquiry via the main website.
‘Build a Tank’ Junk Modelling – Friday 31 October Self-led, Creation Station
Come and create your own special REME-inspired vehicle to take away with you! Get creative and see what you can make from recycled materials. The only limit is your imagination!
When I put together the 4 Julia’s House compilation albums a few years ago I decided I shouldn’t pick favourites out of the eighty-one songs donated, but if I had to, it would’ve indisputably been Atlantic O by Will Lawton and Ludwig Mack. With the ambience of the gods, this track is such a soothing sentimental earworm it makes you go all tingly as it drifts like a lost ship on the sea. Now the duo have released a debut album, matching the sublimity of Atlantic O. The story behind it is of an absorbing coincidence, and its unique marketing is equally as genius as the music…..
At the time I was aware of the virtuosity and diversity of Malmsbury musical magician, Will Lawton, from solo performances and fronting The Alchemists. At the time he sent the tune for the project he briefly explained Ludwig was an Argentinian musician he had been working with, but their connection is far more complex and is explained in the book to the album, which is in turn, currently the only way to hear it.
A story of serendipity expressed earnestly through a 36-page hardback, which continues to detail the thought processes of the album, each individual song, and the musicians which accompany them along the titled journey Five Years in the Cotswolds. Then, on the back cover there’s a QR code to scan, leading you to streaming options; I suggest you do, your ears will love you forevermore.
Enticed by the lure of English music, and his European travelling plans cut short by the pandemic, Argentinian musician Ludwig Mack arrived in the UK from Spain a day prior to lockdown. He had already connected with Will via Instagram, not realising when he settled in Hullavington he was coincidently only a few miles away from Will’s home. They jammed together, the song Atlantic O, and within a year produced the EP Heroes.
Ludwig explored the UK, and found work whether he could, whilst Will continued with family life, his band the Alchemists and his employment as a music psychotherapist. But Ludwig often dropped in to see Will, and it was inevitable this project would blossom like the opening tune, aptly Blossom, a tender springtime daydream contrasting aging with memories. It’s as majestic as the morning chorus, and includes a naturally sourced one too.
The fabric of this album continues on this theme, indeed Songbird follows suit into the most gentle flow of concentrated bliss. It’s the first single released this Friday (10/10) of the goodness of nature rather than society’s machine, unhinged and timeless piano-based folk, and celebratory of the glory wildlife in all its splendour, wrapped in the warmest serenity. By its very composure it defines the sum of all this goodness and shapes a heart in your mind; if an album was a wander through a springtime meadow, this is a stroll to remember.
It comes as no surprise Will is a music psychotherapist, if the vocation is to improve wellbeing, increase happiness and overcome issues. One listen to Five Years in the Cotswolds is the best remedy. Ten solid tunes, all the like to make the little hairs on the back of your neck stand to attention. There’s few artists able to accomplish this, I could cite many, from Bill Withers to John Denver and you will contemplate your favourites when this caresses your senses.
The album lifts with euphoric pace at God’s Plan, and I’m left thinking of Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On as its aperture opens the album to a similar width of beauty. From the guitar chimes of November to the quirkiness of the bluegrass-esque Walk Each Other Home, and from the amorous ambience of Clouds to Freya Everest’s haunting vocal range on I Noticed, this album continues flowing on the theme as a paragon, never meandering off course.
Its production is as crisp as autumn leaves, the arrangements are like sunlight. The composition is a Vivaldi, its versification is W. H. Davies’ Leisure, the musical expression of a Monet, a pilgrimage to a Constable masterpiece, or all of these wonders capturing the beauty of nature equally combined and consumed, it really is this breathtaking. Devizine
Its production is as crisp as autumn leaves, the arrangements are like sunlight. The composition is a Vivaldi, its versification is W. H. Davies’ Leisure, the musical expression of a Monet, a pilgrimage to a Constable masterpiece, or all of these wonders capturing the beauty of nature equally combined and consumed, it really is this breathtaking.
Bath’s producer and musician, Rob McLeod, aka Mac Lloyd, Spanish multi-instrumentalist Guillem Mitchel, London based jazz singer-songwriter and producer Freya Everest and drummer Tony Partridge who met Will at Schtumm in Box, are the other collaborators behind this enchanting project, alongside composer and arranger Benjamin Lawton, Will’s son.
Streaming platforms are held off until next year on this, the book to Five Years in the Cotswolds is the album’s only current access point, and is available on their website, and at upcoming gigs, The Castle, Swindon on 16th October, and Pound Arts in Corsham on 6th November, details of which are also on their website.
It’s nice to hear when our features attract attention. Salisbury’s Radio Odstock picked up on our interview with Devizes band Burn the Midnight Oil and…
In thanking everyone who supported this year’s Wiltshire Music Awards, Eddie Prestidge of Stone Circle Music Events revealed his intentions of continuing with the awards…
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Oh yeah, invite me to a place with a bar, throw some of the best blues this side of New Orleans at me and then hope I’ll articulate some words about it next morning, why don’t you?! It’s okay readers, it’s become standard protocol for me, I’ve got this…with help from Ben and Vicky!
…Here goes my bit; it was the opening of the new season at Long Street Blues Club in Devizes last night. Homegrown blues legend Jon Amor paid it a visit, bringing along his proficient drum and bass section, Tom Gilkes and Jerry Soffe, respectively, a handful of special guests wise in the ways of instrumenting sublime blues, and an intention and motivation to pull an extravaganza from the anticipation in the ether. Irresistible prospect, had to witness, savour, and shake my tail feather to, like it was going out of fashion. Ol’ Frankie Valli couldn’t describe it better, oh what a night.
Four to the floor electric blues was the order they marched out to, each one a showstopper yet the show didn’t hang around for the audience to contemplate. Musicians aplenty popping out of the stage door, grabbing instruments and jamming on a rotation akin to an ice hockey game. Johnny Henderson seated at the Hammond organ, Tom Jones guitarist Scott McKeon strumming with Will Edmunds, Craig Crofton blowing that sax, and precision sound engineering all enhanced the usual trio’s show, elevating it to a phenomenal stance.
There were times Jon smoothed it with rarely played ballads, such a superbly protracted Happiest All-Time Low, from his 2018 album Colour in the Sky, but for the most part the Juggernaut and his overload appeased the crowd with expeditious renditions of his beloved sprightly favourites, and newer The Turnaround album tunes he recorded last year with Jerry & Tom, easiest to pick out being the swinging Rideau Street and the hard stomping riffs of the explicit Miss James. I don’t know who Miss James is, but the passion Jon puts into this, and every song, leaves you wondering what her phone number is!
If this Indian summer is subtle outside it was a furnace inside. Ex-Hoax guitarist Jon, a testament to Devizes’ Mel Bush effect, an immutable adoration of blues, is a stalwart on stage, delivering blues in a style only he could. The aforementioned gubbings only added to the trio’s splendour, and a truly fantastic opening evening for The Long Street Blues Club’s new season.
But don’t take my word for it, here’s what Ben Romain and Vicky thought about it, as we got our wires crossed and both wrote about it, but it was such a gig it deserves two reviews anyway!
Stand up and shout! Blues is what it is all about, laid back and loving Blues in D-town!
In my many years as a fan of Jon’s music I’ve seen him play many venues in Devizes and nearby. We are blessed of course with a monthly residence at The Southgate Inn, where the majority of this ensemble has at some point graced the stage. This evening was a change of a little more space to get some friends together, at our very own Blues Club.
A fine opening set from Leonardo Guilliani, a rapidly rising star, hailing from Southampton. No stranger to the club, having opened for Watermelon Slim previously.
Some great original songs from his album, and new songs from an upcoming release recorded at Abbey Road Studios! I particularly liked the new song ‘Angel’, a soulful reflective song, with a gentle tone, blues of a sort but melodic and soothing in a contemporary Blues vein. A few well-chosen covers too, with some resounding classic electric blues. Overall, a perfect opener for this gig! I look forward to seeing him again along the road.
As Jon introduces the extended band to the stage, I am reminded of countless gigs in Devizes and beyond, where I have enjoyed all these musicians. This ensemble has between them played an unbelievable range of genre defining big names, and it shows……with the confident ease they poured into this session.
There are the Jon Amor Trio set regulars like ‘Miss James’, ‘Juggernaut’ and ‘Birds Nest on the Ground’, some less regular but great additions such as Jon’s ‘Red Telephone’ and ‘Happiest All time Low’. This entire two hour plus set revelled in and resounding with the connectivity of the scene.
When Will Edmunds and Jon share ‘Lovin’ Cup’ a rousing dance friendly classic we get to enjoy the best of this sense, a classic in the sets of Jon and Will in their regular haunts, sharing as they do, many gigs the might of Gilkes and Soffe.
We’ve enjoyed Jonny Henderson guest slots here in Devizes and with another Devizes and author’s favourite Elles Bailey amongst others, we’ve seen the wonderful Scott McKeon guest with Jon, and for a bonus Devizes point with Jon’s former bandmate Robin and Beaux Gris Gris and The Apocalypse and most commonly known for playing with Tom Jones.
I could ramble enthusiastically all day about the good vibes of this gig but there’s a wider point to acknowledge before I run out of type space….that of the community and connectivity both with musicians and audiences.
We have an unusually high level of gigs, especially blues leaning gigs in our town. We have some pretty heavy hitters in the UK blues past and present around here which doubtless helps, but we are also blessed with venues born of passion, people who support those opportunities as much as they can, so we are known in Devizes for putting up a good audience.
Our little world faces challenges like all venues and scenes across the UK, yet on the whole we are bucking the trend and attracting fine music from the brave upstart to the big established names and something to be rightly proud of.
There’s weekly amazing music at the Southgate and these incredible seasons of blues at Long Street, pub gigs, even occasionally music in bars and coffee lounges!
Key to the future of all of it, is people getting involved. I could name around a third of the crowd last night, and know most of the band from past gigs, with all of the craziness of the world, when many conscious or not are affected by loss of community, unity and shared positive experience….we have all that right here at home, every week.
I am now twelve years or so into my passionate support of local live music, it offers so much more than huge mega money gigs, and it supports through shared venues other aspects of our towns offer.
So, if you missed this incredible gig look at listings here, Facebook or wherever, message venues, talk to friends, there’s always a solid welcome, and you may find your new favourite band or next best friend in the crowd!
Thanks Ben, that is exactly what it’s all about! And now a “further reading” related rant to finish on!
When I published a preview of Long Street’s new season I highlighted this gig in particular, because Jon is loved by the residents of Devizes as this native hero. It was inevitable, and something I had discussed with both Ian, organiser of Long Street, and Dave at the Southgate, that someone would comment on the social media shares of it, questioning why they would pay to see Jon at Long Street when his monthly residences at the Southgate are free. Being I suspect there’s others that share this understandable view, and that money is a benefactor to deciding what to and what not to attend in these trying times, I thought I’d answer it with my opinion, for better or worse.
Starter for ten, we love the Southgate, we love the fact they host these regular sessions with the Jon Amor Trio and usually a special guest, and we’ve covered them many times. In fact, The Southgate has probably had more reviews from us than anywhere else. Dave and Ian are friends, they attend each other’s gigs and liaison to avoid clashes of similar gigs. The Southgate will pay what they can for an artist from money they make at the bar, most pubs operate this way, it is up to the artist to accept this or decline to play. The Southgate, like others, will hand around a tip hat, to top up the performers’ earnings. That is the way we get free gigs, but it is not how it works with event organisers who must pay for acts from the revenue of ticket sales. No matter how great this residency is at the Southgate, they are on Sunday afternoon when gravy is tipped onto your roast! Personally, due to work commitments I’m unable to let my hair down over more than a pint, like I can do on a Saturday night; that’s the time they let me out! I’m sure others find themselves in a similar situation.
Aside this, with the capacity of the club greater than the pub allowing folk room to move, the enhancement of the show via additional guests forming an eight piece band at times, the perfection of the sound engineering, and the uninterrupted presentation, are all benefits you are unlikely to get in any pub environment. Saturday night proved this, for it was a cut above what any performer would be capable of in any pub. It was a fantastic night, if you were there you would know it was and accept it was total and utter class. If you weren’t, well, you only have my and Ben’s words it was so.
And with that notion we can put the final slither of their comment to bed, that Long Street has “zero” atmosphere. Yes, I understand there are a few longstanding devotees who favour to remain seated and silent, the root to my little regular jest labelling them “the Devizes blues appreciation society!” But the atmosphere is what YOU make it! We danced the night away, I loved it, Ben and Vicky clearly loved it, people around us loved it. No one bothered us in doing so and no dancer bothered those who opted not to. When compromise is necessary, no less punters at Long Street adhere than might in a pub.
There’s no hard feelings, the comment remains as we don’t delete fair opinions. I’m no Nostradamus, but I suspected someone might suggest this, just a little irked to understand the reasoning for posting it. If it was to encourage others to side with them I genuinely think that’s a shame, as it risks the continuation of this wonderful club. No one is forcing anyone to go anymore than anyone is forcing anyone else to write such a comment.
Hey, I might see them at the Gate sometime, but they should note some regulars there attended this one, and others who might not frequent the Southgate, they did too; why deny their chances to see an act they claimed to love themselves, like most of us in Devizes? Because, and here’s the killer line, when Jon and his extended team blasted out the customary Juggernaut finale, feet were stomping, sweat rinsed shirts, and expressions of sheer joy blessed the faces of those in attendance. It was blissfully brilliant, the best night in Devizes I’ve had for a long time; long live Long Street Blues Club, but yeah, other options, such as The Southgate are available and come highly recommended too. What a petty fiasco!
We are creatures of habit here in old Devizes. We’ll stand in the Market Place wearing a vacant expression, wondering where we can bag ourselves a good kebab in town now the Kebab House is sadly no longer. I urge you to think Sidmouth Street, think The Olive….
Yeah, I get you. Save the longstanding New Pacific Chinese, the previous takeaways in Sidmouth Street didn’t receive great appraisal, causing the street to be considered a no-go zone for the peckish. Well, times change. With Mustafa Suna, the once owner of the Kebab House content to be relocated a hefty trek away at the Garden Trading Estate, the new option is The Olive Pizza & Grill; you best believe it.
It was newly opened a couple of months ago. By name, it sounds fresher and natural, but does it live up to its name? I thought I’d drag my tastebuds there to find out…..
Shenol Redzheb is the owner of this tidy little takeaway where Acropolis once toppled. He cut his teeth at Chick-O-Land, where he spent thirteen years, but was adamant about building his own new legacy here. It certainly was spotless and hospitable, with everything freshly prepared right before your eyes.
The range is fantastic, too. The standard range of kebabs, combo or wraps, burgers, and chicken, but with a pizzeria too, choices are ample for the most fussiest of families, like mine! One apple of my eye opted for a cheeseburger, the other a pizza, and the wife and I went for the donor kebab, though she favours garlic mayo on hers; sacrilegious! I say this because the homemade chilli sauce here is to die for, really rich, perfect level of hotness and tomatoey; yummy, yummy, yummy, love in my tummy.
In fact, everything was well received. The boy’s burger was apparently “ummm,” and despite explaining I needed a bite for the purpose of the review, he wasn’t giving it up without a fight! The daughter praised the pizza, and she’s the Jay Rayner among us, but she especially adored the chips, describing them as crisp, and they were, I concurred. Perfectly cooked little beauties, and cut just the right size to be best considered “chunky fries.”
The kebab was lovely too, meat, tasty, a good range of fresh salad, and oh, did I mention the chilli sauce?! It’s worth mentioning twice!
Portions generous, all at a competitive price, the family were happy. I’ll be back faster than Schwarzenegger for an uzi 9mm. You should give this local owner’s new enterprise a try. There’s vegetarian options, phones, and an online ordering website HERE, and they deliver right out to the sticks, at around a four mile radius; dinner sorted!
The Olive Pizza & Grill is at: 26 Sidmouth Street, Devizes, SN10 1LD, UK
Featured Image: Lillie Eiger Frome Festival is launching its ‘25 for 25’ fundraising campaign with a very special concert featuring three locally based acts: Tom Moth – best known…
I’ve got some gorgeous vocal harmonies currently floating into my ears, as The Lost Trades release their first single since the replacement of Tamsin Quin…
Rolling out a Barrelhouse of fun, you can have blues on the run, tomorrow (7th November) when Marlborough’s finest groovy vintage blues virtuosos Barrelhouse release…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Ben Swann and Ian Diddams Self-appointed “Morose” Mark Harrison was once again on totally top form at Komedia last Sunday entertaining…
Wiltshire Council confirmed Blue Badge holders can park freely in council-operated car parks again, following a vote at the Full Council meeting on Tuesday 21…
Featured Image Credit: Jamie Carter Special guests Lightning Seeds to Support Forest Live, Forestry England’s summer concert series presented with Cuffe & Taylor, has announced…
Wiltshire country singer-songwriter Kirsty Clinch released a Christmas song only yesterday, raising funds for the Caenhill Countryside Centre near Devizes, and it’s already racing up…
The Wiltshire Music Awards are delighted to confirm a new headline partnership with Stone Circle Music Events, who will sponsor the Awards for 2025 and into 2026.
As part of this agreement, the event will be rebranded as: Stone Circle Music Events – Wiltshire Music Awards.
This collaboration reflects Stone Circle Music Events’ ongoing commitment to supporting music in Wiltshire, and across the wider UK and Ireland. Their involvement will provide significant opportunities to raise the profile of the Awards, enhance the experience for participants, and strengthen engagement with the wider music community.
Benefits of this partnership include:
• Brand Visibility: Prominent placement of the Stone Circle Music Events name across all event materials, press releases, and social media campaigns.
• Audience Reach: Direct engagement with a diverse audience of musicians, industry professionals, and the public.
• Prestige & Influence: Recognition as the headline supporter of one of Wiltshire’s most anticipated music events.
• Networking Opportunities: Closer ties with event partners, sponsors, and stakeholders.
• Catalyst for Growth: The presence of a strong lead sponsor encouraging further sponsorship and increased scale for the Awards.
Eddie Prestige of Wiltshire Music Awards said, “we are thrilled to welcome Stone Circle Music Events as our headline sponsor. Their passion for supporting music and culture perfectly aligns with our mission to celebrate and elevate the incredible talent across Wiltshire. This partnership will allow us to grow the Awards and create an even more impactful event in 2025 and beyond.”
Darren Worrow of Wiltshire Music Awards added, “This is great news, and we hope it secures a future for the awards.”
Managing Director of Stone Circle Music Events, Patrick O’Sullivan said, “Stone Circle Music Events are proud to support the Wiltshire Music Awards as headline sponsor. Music is at the heart of what we do, and this partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent and strengthening the live music community in Wiltshire, the UK, and Ireland. We are excited to be part of such a vibrant celebration of creativity.”
This partnership represents an exciting step forward for the Wiltshire Music Awards, helping to secure its long-term success and cement its place as a key celebration of musical talent in the region.
Legendary songwriter and original Stranglers frontman Hugh Cornwell has announced a run of UK dates this November, accompanied by special guests The Courettes, and it includes Frome’s Cheese & Grain on Saturday 15th…..
Golden Brown, Strange Little Girl, Always The Sun… sound familiar? All big hits, all great songs, all penned and performed by Hugh Cornwell, the songwriter behind the legendary early eighties punk band The Stranglers.
When future historians of music draw up a list of the movers and shakers who changed the modern musical landscape, Hugh Cornwell’s name will no doubt be amongst them. As a pioneering musician, songwriter and performer, his pervasive influence persists in the record collections of music aficionados, across this spinning globe’s radio waves, and on stages around the world. Hugh’s presence is unquestionable.
As the leader of The Stranglers, Hugh was the main songwriter of all of the band’s most memorable songs across ten stellar albums. After their 1977 debut Rattus Norvegicus, follow-up albums such as No More Heroes and The Raven consolidated Cornwell’s stature as a unique songwriter and musician. His multi-layered lyrics to Golden Brown, from La Folie, remain a songwriting masterclass.
Hugh embarks on his Come And Get Some tour in November, appearing at Frome’s Cheese & Grain on Saturday 15th. A full band show with Stranglers choice cuts and solo delicates, plus support from The Courettes, an explosive group from Denmark and Brazil. With Flavia Couri on vocals and guitar and Martin on drums, they provide the perfect blend of Wall of Sound, Girl Group Heartbreaks, Motown and R&B. Imagine the Ronettes meeting the Ramones at a wild party in the Hitsville echo chamber, that’s the Courettes!
“Cornwell’s still doing things his way and often with striking results,” said Mojo, “Thunderously tribal garage rock… the ex-Strangler not yet gone soft,” Uncut provided.
Kicking off at Epic Studios in Norwich on 6th November, Hugh Cornwell will be playing favourites from his time with The Stranglers as well as a range of solo material, including his 1979 album ‘Nosferatu’ in full. The record saw Cornwell teaming up with Captain Beefheart’s Robert Williams to create a record as gothic as the film it takes its name from.
Throughout November, Cornwell will make stops at beloved venues up and down the country including Hangar 34 in Liverpool, Concorde 2 in Brighton and Islington Assembly in the capital. He’ll be joined on the road by retro-inspired punk rock duo The Courettes, helming from Denmark and Brazil.
Popular award-winning artisan chocolate business Hollychocs has announced that its Beanery Café will close on Saturday 23rd August, marking exactly two years since its opening in Poulshot, near Devizes….
Founded by award-winning chocolatier Holly Garner, Hollychocs has become a much-loved fixture in the local community, known not just for its handcrafted chocolates but for creating a warm, welcoming space for chocolate lovers to connect, indulge and experience the very best chocolate in the Southwest.
“This decision hasn’t come lightly,” said Holly. “Sam and I have poured so much into the café—working long days, championing other small businesses and suppliers and welcoming thousands of people through our doors. The support from our community has meant everything.”
The closure comes amidst rising costs that have impacted many small businesses across the country. “We’ve tried everything—from constantly creating new menu offerings, to introducing special offers,” Holly added. “In the end, the increased labour costs paired with price increases across the board, have made it time to focus our energy on a future that’s sustainable for us, our chocolate, and the people behind it.”
Yet this opens a new chapter for Hollychocs. Although the café will no longer offer drop-in visits, Hollychocs will continue to host a wide range of bookable chocolate experiences from their studio just outside Devizes. These include guided tastings, chocolate-making workshops, and sit-down afternoon teas—already popular with locals and visitors alike.
Hollychocs’ full product range will also remain available for UK-wide delivery and click & collect. She’s just released a Hollychocs version of the viral sensation Dubai Bar and has plans to increase her postbox-friendly chocolate gifts which are an increasingly popular way of sending a thoughtful gift.
They will also be focusing more on Corporate Gifting and Wholesale opportunities both locally and nationally.
“We’re not going anywhere,” Holly assured. “We’re simply shifting focus—putting our efforts into the parts of the business we know can sustain us in the long term.”
The final day of trading at the Beanery Café will take place on Saturday 23rd August, and the team welcomes the community to pop in for one last drink or treat.
“We’d love to see some familiar faces before we close the doors,” said Holly. “We’re so proud of what we’ve built—and incredibly grateful to everyone in Wiltshire who’s supported us on this journey.”
Devizine wishes Holly and the team all the best with progressing this delicious brand. It’s a shame to hear about The Beanery but I believe they’ve made the sensible decision.
It was never just the fervent ambience created which made me go tingly with excitement about Melksham’s young indie band Between The Lines’ demo single…
A second track from local anonymous songwriter Joyrobber has mysteriously appeared online, and he’s bitter about not getting his dream job….. If this mysterious dude’s…
It’s not Christmas until the choir sings, and Devizes Chamber Choir intend to do precisely this by announcing their Christmas Concert, as they have done…
If Devizes’ celebrated FullTone Festival is to relocate to Whistley Road’s Park Farm for next summer’s extravaganza, what better way to give it the rustic…
This afternoon sees the inaugural grand ceremony of Stone Circle Music Events’ Wiltshire Music Awards taking place at the Devizes Corn Exchange. It’s a sellout…
Family run premier auctioneers of antiques and collector’s items, Henry Aldridge and Son announced a move into The Old Town Hall on Wine Street, Devizes; a move which will see them return to their roots…..
Alan Aldridge started Henry Aldridge and Son from the first floor of The Old Town Hall thirty-five years ago. They’re delighted to be coming home having completed the freehold purchase of the property. “It means so much to us as a family,” Chrissie Aldridge told us.
“The Old Town Hall, a stunning Grade II* neoclassical property will serve as the principal location for the collation of our Titanic, Liner and iconic memorabilia auctions. We will also host weekly free valuation days on Thursday market days.”
“The first stage of our move will take place next month with our main operation relocating to the Old Emporium in October.”
Henry Aldridge and Son host free valuations in Devizes every Friday with their Head of Valuations, TV’s Paul Martin. Paul, who hosted BBC’s Flog It for nearly twenty years is available to cast his expert eye over your prize possessions.
The Old Town Hall dates to 1752, first commissioned as a market hall, the ground floor was the town’s cheese market. By 1785 the first floor was an arsenal for the Royal Wiltshire Militia, and has also been the mess hall of the Devizes Loyal Volunteers, and a Sunday school.
Why is it called Wine Street? By 1836 the building was leased for commercial use, acquired by wine merchants, Messrs Cunnington, who used the basement and the vaults below for storage. The building has also been the museum, library and reading rooms of the literary and scientific institution. But many will remember its use by TSB, Hen House and the Wine Street Gallery.
Just How Big Is That Fringe? Or Two Go Myth-Busting
Andy Fawthrop
We’ve always held that D-Town is a great place to live, and one of the many reasons is that it punches well above its weight in terms of the arts and cultural events. Just speaking to musicians and artists who visit the town for gigs and festivals, the feedback is always the same: they’re in awe of just how much we’ve got going on here.….
Do we need to recite the list? Oh go on then – two/ three Beer Festivals (DOCA Winter Ales, Seend, CAMRA DBF), an arts festival (DAF), a food and drink festival, Fulltone on The Green, our own theatre, two opera companies (WHO, DMT), Devizes to Westminster canoe race, Long Street Blues Club, the DOCA events (Street Festival, Colour Rush, Lantern Parade, Carnival, Picnic In The Park)….I could (and usually do), go on. There’s pubs with regular live music (White Bear, Three Crowns, The Southgate), fairs and circuses on The Green, book clubs, sports clubs…(you’re really going on a bit now…Ed).
But somehow that old refrain of “Nothing Ever Happens In Devizes” has been making a come-back of late on social media, yet it just ain’t true. But like all myths, it refuses to lie down and die. Despite this revered organ (ooh, matron) laying out the many, many choices you might have every week, and bringing you previews and reviews of everything and anything arts-based that we can get our sticky little fingers on, some folks seem to persist in apparently finding “nothing” to do. So it’s time to, yet again, challenge that myth and have another go at laying it to rest for once and for all.
Anyway…..at the moment of writing we’re right in the middle of the Devizes Arts Festival fortnight, with plenty of variety to please all tastes. But, admittedly, some of these events can command ticket prices that are unaffordable for some. So, inspired somewhat by last weekend’s wonderful free Rowdefest (thank you Darren!) and, admittedly, a bit of a “robust discussion” in the pub, I decided to see just how much fun and entertainment you could enjoy over this weekend at next to no cost. It’s a challenge I decided to take on by getting off my luxury sofa, and propel myself out “into the field” (as it were).
Armed with only a stout pair of walking boots, an inquisitive and open mind, and a supportive girlfriend, I headed out into the local area to see what I could actually come up with on Saturday and Sunday this weekend. The results are below:
1. Devizes Farmers’ Market in The Market Place Bar (Saturday 9 am)
· What it was: monthly gathering of local suppliers
· What was it like? Plenty of choice – venison, bread, honey, olives, cheese, bread & fruit, flowers and plants, fresh coffee, cider, cakes. Plenty of good fresh stuff from suppliers within a 30 mile radius of D-Town. Added to stalls in the Shambles, this is worth a half hour of anyone’s time, either for shopping or simply browsing.
· Cost: £FREE
· Children’s rating: 1/5, Adults’ rating: 4/5
2. K&A Canal Walk towpath, any old time
· What it was: a c. 4 mile walk down the towpath from D-Town to Poulshot
· What was it like? Lots of people out strolling or cycling, boats passing up and down the flight (an opportunity for some gomgoozling). We also saw many species of birds, including four, yes four, different grey herons – such elegant birds.
· Cost: £FREE
· Children’s rating: 1/5, Adults’ rating: 5/5
3. Poulshot Medicine in Nature Herbal Walk at Poulshot Village Hall (Saturday 10.30am – 12)
· What it was: a short walk led by Katherine Baldock & Simon Parkes (ecologist) around the village to explore the wild and naturalised medicinal plants growing thereabouts, and an opportunity to make some herbal vinegar after foraging the local hedgerows.
· What was it like? Way too slow for me, it was part talk, part very gentle amble around the village green and woodland, part discovery of a number of wild plants. We discussed culinary and medicinal uses. At least I found bits of Poulshot I didn’t know about, including the pond, the specially-created woodland, and some country paths (useful for getting over to Whistley Road later on).
· What it was:. An event organised by WAPG (Wiltshire Agricultural Preservation Group), featuring static displays of steam traction engines, tractors, miniature steam engines, heavy horses, trade stalls, fairground, military vehicles, classic cars.
· What was it like? As it was chucking it down with rain as we arrived, the most welcome thing for the first half hour was the (well-stocked) beer tent. I could have done without the loud piped music but, hey, it was dry and there was beer! When the rain slowed down a bit we did the full circuit and there was plenty to see, the most impressive of which were the full-size old traction engines in steam (some also seen later driving through D-Town). There were pop-up food outlets, fresh coffee, craft stalls and tents, a 1940s-themed tea and cakes tent, bouncy castle for the children etc. The site was large with plenty of parking but, because of the rain, getting increasingly muddy.
· Cost: £10/ person + drinks
· Children’s rating: 4/5, Adults’ rating: 4/5
5. Pete Robson & J P Oldfield in The Bear, Cellar Bar (Saturday 8pm)
· What it was: foot-stomping blues from two solo performers
· What was it like? Each performer used steel guitar and stomp box to deliver some hard-cutting blues. CDs for sale. Not very well attended, which was a shame. Perhaps it needed to be better advertised. For me Pete Robson was the better performer of the two, taking a slightly less hard-edge approach to his vocals, and mixing up the tempo, giving more light and shade to his set. The cellar bar is an OK venue at best, being a rather odd shape, with very low ceiling and an only partially-stocked bar. I suspect it needs to be used much more often if it’s going flourish as a venue.
· Cost: £FREE + drinks
· Adults’ rating: 3/5
· Note –we could have also gone to see either Matchbox Mutiny/ Tom Harris in The Three Crowns or The Duskers in The Southgate (both FREE entry), but there’s only so many hours in the day!
6. Crammer Watch Day on the Small Green Devizes (Sunday 11am onwards)
· What it was: a chance to meet those involved in celebrating and preserving the Crammer. RSPCA, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Wessex Water, Friends of The Crammer, Lawrence Society of Artists, Sustainable Devizes + The Moonrakers Legend (performed at 12 noon and 1pm), photography competition, charity tombola
· What was it like? We missed the Moonrakers performance, so as an experience I found it a bit thin on the ground. There was little to see and do, unless you wanted to stand and chat to someone about the issues which the Crammer faces. Several stands were just offering information leaflets. Although a worthy attempt, for me personally it was just not very engaging.
· Cost: £FREE
· Children’s rating: 1/5, Adults’ rating: 1/5
7. Lions on The Green on The Green (Sunday 10am -4pm)
· What it was: organised by Devizes Lions Club, a vehicle display (cars, bikes, scooters, military etc) and family fun day (lots of stalls, bar, food outlets)
· What was it like? Covering the whole of the large Green, this was really excellently-well organised. The central area was given over to the displays of antique, rare and sports cars. Stalls had cakes, plants (from Plot 35), metal signs, honey etc. There was a bouncy castle and fairground rides for children. A licensed bar, coffee shop etc. Lots to look at and plenty of photo opportunities. Fantasy Radio were broadcasting live from the site.
· Cost: £FREE (donations to the Lions collecting buckets) + drinks
· Children’s rating: 4/5, Adults’ rating: 5/5
8. Devizes Arts Festival Free Fringe:Whiskey River (@ British Lion garden Sunday 2 – 5pm)
· What it was: Roots Music From the Welsh frontier
· What was it like? The trio Whiskey River played Americana, Cajun, Zydeco, Folk, Country, Blues and a smattering of Celtic music. Using guitar, fiddle, flute, harmonica, mandolin and concertina, these guys provided an excellent and enjoyable afternoon of music in the (occasional) sunshine. The bar was open, and there was a BBQ going on throughout. People sitting out enjoying a drink, dogs, children, good music – perfect!
· Cost: £FREE + (a large, undisclosed) drinks bill
· Children’s rating: 3/5, Adults’ rating: 5/5
9. Wood & Steel (@ The Southgate Inn Sunday 5-7pm)
· What it was: an acoustic duo playing blues, jazz and ragtime
· What was it like? This duo were new to me, but I was very impressed by what I heard. Two very good musicians, clearly comfortable in their own skin, played two excellent 50-minute sets and got a very well-deserved encore. Lots of covers from many ages and genres, using dobro, guitar, upright bass and vocals. Excellent musical accompaniment to a late, lazy Sunday afternoon. Great atmosphere too.
· Cost: £FREE (donations to “the hat”) + more (undisclosed) drinks
· Adults’ rating: 5/5
· Note – we could also have gone to see Bodge It & Scarper at The White Bear (Sunday 5-7pm) playing acoustic music, but didn’t hear about this until quite late. Also can’t be in two places at once. This event was also FREE.
In summary:
· Miles walked – about 10
· Bird species spotted – about 20, including swans, herons, jackdaws, mallard, moorhen, starlings, robins, great tits etc;
· Friends met – loads – far too many to mention!
· Total cost (for two) – £27.80 (of which £20 was for the steam fair) + the drinks (but let’s not mention that bit!);
· Fun and entertainment had – loads and loads and loads;
· Well-being – absolutely knackered, but very happy. Looking forward to next weekend!
Yes it all took a little bit of planning, but it wasn’t that difficult really. We walked to/ from most venues, so we got lots of other good D-Town stuff (Caen Hill locks, the towpath etc) and took only one short (cheap) bus ride when the heavens opened. So there was plenty of exercise and fresh air to mitigate the various bits of eating and drinking. Did I mention that the odd libation was partaken of? And I’m not saying that EVERY weekend is quite this packed, but it certainly can be if you put your mind to it. Bear in mind that there’s LOADS of other stuff going on – these were simply the things we happened to pick out. There were choices – and we made them!
Nothing Ever Happens In Devizes??? Don’t make me laugh.
If it’s good enough for Knight Rider it’s good enough for me. I see the Hoff ditched his Knight Industries Three Thousand on the Green for a stroll around Devizes on Sunday. He probably found a crusade to champion the cause of the innocent in a world of criminals who operate above the law, whereas I ended up at the British for a scrumpy or three….
Unlike some guys who act like Spongebob Squarepants on his tenth bag of Haribo at Chessington World of Adventures, I can only get yay excited about a car show. But Devizes Lions do it with cherries on… and debatably false advertising. There were no lions on the Green, but it was Lions on the Green this Sunday past, an annual free fete/car show crossover which never fails to appeal universally; kids nag mums for Rowdey Cow ice cream while dads furiously argue for three hours with a total stranger in sandals that the Mk2 2.8 Injection Granada handles better than the Mk1 with a 3.0 V6 engine.
I browse unacquainted with such matters, unfazed by contemporary cock extensions, but in admiration of vintage, retro cars and those with a movie reference attached. Every local from MP Brian Matthews to Pete of Vinyl Realm, and outsiders like Marty McFly have brought their big boy toys along to display, as Fantasy Radio blast Gary Numan. It’s a sunny morning, it’s a lovely occasion, it’s raising funds, and there’s nothing to dislike about it.
Cars ticked off, hot dog and an extended conversation with a detectorist who’d discovered a variety of civil war shots and cannonballs on Roundway, if the Lions on the Green is a great and unbroken walkthrough event it coincided with Crammer Watch Day further along on, at the Little Green.
With long term solutions outstanding for unsafe conditions for wildfowl on the Crammer, there appears to be a far more communal tenet between concerned residents and the council compared to the outcry a few years ago, and this day was intended rather to celebrate the Crammer than address expensive possible solutions. As it stands, the simple fix is to raise public awareness that the only escape route for swans is across the roadside and they should apply caution when driving through….please.
With live painting from the Lawrence Arts Society, stands from the RSPCA, Sustainable Devizes and hosts Friends of The Crammer, conservation was a topic, if overshadowed somewhat by historical tomfoolery, which was something new to the day and personally my highlight.
A random team of amateur thespians, some from the Wharf Writers Group and others along for the giggle and wearing of knitted beards, staged a short promenade satirical play “reenacting” the fable of the moonrakers, aptly at The Crammer. The premise didn’t sound so inspiring to me, and I thought I might have to hold my tongue. The actuality surprised me, it was absolutely brilliant!
Pythonesque humour delivered with skill on a local legend, deliberately naff props such as a paddling pool for the pond, and astutely scripted silliness, it was indigenous and hilariously original.
Authenticity deliberately skewed for amusement; they couldn’t have done this anywhere else but here, the setting of the beloved fable, which is amusing enough without the added gags. Francis Grose was a witty Victorian chubster and nothing more needs to upset the applecart about the origin of the moonrakers, as this wasn’t intending to proclaim historic fact checking rather to amuse, which a country gent in Harris Tweed with a carrot in his mouth pretending to be a donkey will inevitably achieve.
I don’t know where the Hoff got to, but he missed a rarer treat than reuniting with Pamela Anderson for a titillating slow-motion beach jog. Oh, and a whistle stop to Morrisons was a let down culturally compared to what was outside. Along the road I shrug at a classic bus, for its appearance would’ve been more expected trekking the Sahara than parked outside the faithfully traditional British Lion, and there was no explanation for it being there.
Nevertheless I’m one step away from the bar, pondering if there’s one thing expected in Devizes: it’s that The British Lion doesn’t change, because it doesn’t need to. With Devizes Arts Festival is full swing, they’ve arranged a Cwmbran roots trio called Whiskey River to play us some of their sublime classic rock covers, Celtically, with a deep southern Americana twist, as a free fringe event; I cannot argue with this.
Devizes live music aficionados amassed and were thankful, as if they needed an excuse for a pint and fundraising burger from the barbecue. The British Lion is a fond institution, Whiskey River was a great break from our usual circuit, The Lions put on a brilliant and well organised family event, Crammer Watch added to an already great day and those awesome actors with rakes did make us laugh as promised.
It was all too much for me, the White Bear and Southgate continued the music, but I needed a little lie down, while our roving reporter Andy outdone me, partying like Prince in 1999, so I’m also putting up his account of weekend adventures for it’s fuller, far more informative and factually accurate than mine, even if it doesn’t mention Pamela Anderson, because really, she didn’t show. Devizes though, doesn’t need Pam, the fun never stops here, Sunday proved it.
If Whitney Houston set a benchmark for female vocalists many did before her too, but while others were influenced by them, they never felt obliged to attain a sound precisely mimicking them, as, it seems to me, many modern female singers striving for pop success do with Whitney’s. And when they do, it sounds, well, manufactured and impassive. A Liverpudlian now residing in Bristol, Hannah Rose Platt releases a concept album tomorrow, Fragile Creatures, of which I’d compare more to like of Kate Bush, whereby Hannah can weave beautiful tapestries, adapting her voice to reflect the sentiment of her narrative, mood and style of the track; and there’s a lot going on in Fragile Creatures….
It is undoubtedly a concept album, anatomising the complex relationship between women and medicine throughout history. It explores how antiquated myths and misconceptions in the pursuit of science have impacted female health, while creating countless injustices and inequalities. If this comes across sounding more akin to a poignant lecture, Hannah Rose Platt shifts between a collection of musical influences to imprint her wisdom, causing Fragile Creatures to be an altering and compelling journey of prowess and refinement.
It opens introductorily with a spoken word sample of Helen Andelin’s Fascinating Womanhood, a controversial sixties manual encouraging women to uphold their conventional marital role. Ataraxia is as calming as the meaning of its Greek philosophical title, ambiently floating over an acoustic guitar riff and drumbeat, musically reflecting on Diazepam-flavoured tranquillity, as if conformity to the sample will land us all in a world to make Aldous Huxley quiver. In this, Hannah’s voice is bitter, eerie, to convey the point.
But by the second tune, Curious Mixture, a drifting acoustic vibe, Hannah’s voice is as silky and smooth as Kylie, which shifts to a sharper more indie-punk feel as the songs progress. There’s a definite Bristol trip hop scene there too, causing me to consider Portishead as an influence. By the fourth tune we’re blessed with the most gorgeous ballad to Mary Magdalene, reminding me of Daisy Chapman’s folk angle. It’s at this conjunction I realise Hannah is reciting her deepest thoughts and observations on the theme, historically, and they’re gender ecumenical rather than bitter stabs of feminist vendetta. I didn’t feel under attack as a guy listening to this, provided I ponder the meanings Hannah so poignantly expresses.
This is eleven tracks strong, melding myths of pseudoscience, superstition and patriarchy with medicine and chronicles of the resilient and defiant women who unyieldingly fought for equality and autonomy. At times it’s Kate Bush vocalising for Massive Attack, as is the tune The Yellow Wallpaper, at others, such as La Grande Hysterie, it’s a contemporary Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill covered by Siouxsie and the Banshees. It ends playfully like musical theatre, but penultimately is horrific and beautiful in equal measure.
The album is a themed anthology. Each song has its own narrative, weaving into each other. From the tale of Anne Greene, accused of infanticide under the Concealment of Birth of Bastards Act, and pardoned after being revived from hanging to reflections on the health gap that lingers to this day. There’s so much more I still need to discover exploring its sheer brilliance as a concept and how the music compliments it.
Hannah explains the concept, “This record is both an offering and a tribute to female pioneers in medicine; and an endeavour to honour, and give voice to, the unsung heroines in the history of our health. What struck me most during the research and creation of this album was the deeply ingrained, sinister nature of myth and misconception surrounding women’s health, and the harmful, cyclical dismissal of experiences; decade after decade, century after century, often reinforced by outdated and dangerous practices. My hope is that listeners will not only be intrigued by these stories but also inspired to dig deeper and empowered to challenge the systems that have long ignored or misrepresented women’s voices, as this dismissal remains so prevalent today.”
At this I could agreeably sigh, like any poignant art which usually preaches to the converted those who really need to take heed of its message will likely overlook it. Nevertheless, if others cite Fragile Creatures as the work of an upcoming artist, I’d favour to compare the depth and production of this fantastic album to Dark Side of the Moon. And with that the right audience might spare its lesson a thought. A high but deserved accolade, in considering it took Pink Floyd seven albums to accomplish this magnum opus, when this is Hannah Rose Platt’s second; what comes next will be astounding because Fragile Creatures is a sublime keeper.
The advance single Curious Mixture is out now.Full album is released tomorrow (April 25th) via Xtra Mile Recordings and mastered at Abbey Road, with production and playing from Ed Harcourt. Launch party is Friday 25th at Rough Trade, Bristol.
In association with PF Events, Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts introduces a Young Urban Digitals course in video mapping and projection mapping for sixteen to twenty…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Penny Clegg and Shakespeare Live “Antony & Cleopatra” is one of Shakespeare’s four “Roman Plays”, and chronologically is set after “Julius…
The premise is really quite simple, the prospect is positively glowing with brilliance, the result remains to be seen, but on Sunday the 4th May Devizes will know for sure where the future of events in the town rests ….. No pressure Devizes Yea team!!
It was never a nice thing to have to announce our beloved Street Festival had to be cancelled due to arts funding cuts, but being as the Market Place was booked for an event on the date, Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts are determined to put on a show regardless.
The fantastic part to all this is that DOCA has brought together teenage volunteers to create a new annual festival in Devizes Market Place, under the name Yea Devizes. The most important thing for all to note about this is, this is not the street festival, nor a replacement for it, it should not be compared to it, and most important of all, it is NOT just for teenagers. Even if the committee of organisers are youths, this event welcomes everyone, of all ages.
DOCA say they “noticed very few young adults attended traditional local events and therefore sought out youth ambassadors eventually creating Devizes Youth Event Area (Devizes Yea). The youth volunteers wanted to represent their own interests, making local events appeal to our young adults. They’re using their skills and collaboration to create this festival, with an aim of bringing together all generations of our community.”
I met up with the team at their weekly planning meeting, and over a massive map of the Market Place, plastered with sticky notes highlighting all the great ideas they’ve collectively worked on, I was mightily impressed. Under the direction of DOCA expert Annabel, Elsie, Bea, Jo, and Sam are the Devizes Yea core ambassadors, learning the tricks of the events trade, and likely how much hard work goes on behind the scenes to create large scale events…. and there’s more than you imagine.
Jess, my daughter, just joined as press officer, (which puts us ahead of the game of telling you about it!) But Devizes YEA are still looking for teenage volunteers to help in the build-up to and the event itself. So, if you are a young person living in the local area and want to get involved contact: yeadevizes@docadevizes.org.uk or find out more on the DOCA website or Instagram.
“There will be something for everyone at this outdoor event,” Devizes Yea promises, “with a range of live music, circus acts, poetry open mics, plot35 Devizes community gardening, cooking demonstrations, food traders and more. There are also chances for teenagers to get involved on the day with sound tech and learn from professional sound engineers who will be setting up the main stage.”
We think this is a great idea, and look forward to seeing the results. Oh, and wish them all the best of luck with the first event on 4th May, obviously. This could be the start of something amazing, and I must stress the point once again, that this day is designed and intended to be for everyone, not just our younger residents. Even middle-aged young-at hearts, duty bound to show them how it’s done on the dancefloor; Dad-dancing mode switched to crazy legs… and I’m off, nobody attempt to stop me!!
Stuffed my dinner, scanned the brief, headlonged out the door, forgot about the road diversion into the Market Place, made a u-turn, arrived at Wiltshire Museum only two minutes late for the preview evening to their latest exhibition, convincing myself it’s often more interesting to go in blind to what the show is all about anyway!
There’s graffitied skateboards in the exhibition, embroideries, an abstract canvas, a jester’s uniform, old ledgers, ships in bottles, straw sculptures, a video of Stonehenge at summer solstice, and many other fascinating items you’d be excused for misunderstanding how they all relate if the rooms was stripped of the information boards and the exhibition’s title, Un/Common People: Folk Culture in Wessex.
The exhibition opens at Wiltshire Museum from today, Saturday 5th April and runs until Saturday 6th September 2025; plenty of time to pay it a visit, and I recommend you do.
Fortunately for my ignorance, external curator Mellany Robinson of The Museum of British Folklore was on hand to provide a brief speech explaining the reasoning behind it. All the items on show here are bonded by one concept, that they “tell local, political, expected and entirely unexpected stories to reframe the rich heritage and vibrant present day folk cultures for modern audiences.” And as being folk culture, all the items are created by folk without the disciplines of their craft via official training or education.
Now I can relate! Although I don’t wish to discuss my short-lived art college days, my creative labours are all self-taught, save some advice from cartoonists and writers in my younger days. One piece in the exhibit in particular caught my fascination, as a punk-paste zine-maker of yesteryear; an amateurishly hand-drawn flyer for the 1979 Stonehenge Festival. I strongly suspect, whatever angle you come at this from, whether historian, antique dealer, or folk musician, counterculture artist, or possibly more simply, you hold a passing interest in the origins of local folklore, you will find many objects here on display to fascinate you.
I left feeling enlightened, and perhaps a smidgen abashed by the many things I didn’t know. A Hob-Nob is not biscuit, rather a horse-like costumed fellow in the Salisbury Giant, a midsummer procession first recorded in 1572, for example! I now understand why Great Wishford has Oak Apple Day, and what it means to proclaim, “Grovely, Grovely and all Grovely!”
A handcrafted Wiltshire sweetheart pin cushion made by a World War I veteran, a rare ship crafted entirely from straw linking to Poole’s maritime heritage, and a poignant portrait by a Nigerian artist created while seeking asylum in Swindon, are items the Museum hail are the highlights, but depending on your personal interests, I believe what will constitute the highlight will be open to interpretation, being such a timeless mixed bag of tricks held together only by this theme of folk art; I have plenty of musician friends of whom, I guess, would be fascinated by the instruments, artists who would love the artwork from a community project, and others who would cherish this Wessex folk calendar feel to the whole exhibit, from the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge to the May Day celebrations in Cerne Abbas.
Now I’m concerned by my overuse of the word “fascinating,” but the boot fits, that’s what it surprisingly is!
Curator Mellany Robinson told how the The Museum of British Folklore doesn’t have a fixed venue, and it started because founder Simon Costin was, “passionate about what museums call intangible cultural heritage, the heritage of folklore which has historically been suppressed, and overlooked. So, when people die, their works get chucked, because it isn’t considered financial value, but it is of huge personal and historic value.”
Simon Costin founded the The Museum of British Folklore by “buying an old caravan on Ebay in 2008, and travelled around the country for six months turning it into a museum, to test the response. And we need a Museum of British Folklore because we are one of the very few countries which doesn’t have one.”
This project, a collaboration with the Wessex Museum’s collections and the Museum of British Folklore, is more anti-museum than museum in the traditional sense. With many items by unknown creators and certainly all of them unprofessional, it’s more of a hobbit-hole of hidden treasures and curiosities.
“We had to share what we thought of as folk culture because lots of people think certain things of folk culture,” Mellany explained, “but our definition is; something creative not necessarily tangible, produced by someone who doesn’t have formal training in that medium.”
Again, we find Wiltshire Museum bucking the preconceived stereotypes of what constitutes traditional aspects of a museum exhibition, and we should consider ourselves lucky to have them on our doorstep here in Devizes, putting the “muse” in “museum!”
Un/Common People: Folk Culture in Wessex opens today, and runs until Saturday 6th September. Summer Opening Times are from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday. Entry to the exhibition is included in the admission ticket. Tickets cost from £8.50 (concessions available,) and it’s free for under 18s. Director of Wiltshire Museum David Dawson has an online talk introducing the new exhibition on the 8th April.
Do check the Museum’s website for there are many great events upcoming, including the Curious Kids workshops for ages 3-11 and the Museum Explorers Club for 5-7 year olds, lectures, walks and stone carving courses.
by Ian Diddamsimages by Chris Watkins Media and Ian Diddams Whilst probably best known for his editorship of “Private Eye” magazine and thirty-five years as…
I mean, Devizes own contemporary blues throwback, JP is getting bookings, and rightly so. He’s off to Trowbridge’s Lamb next Saturday for a double-bill with…
While world leaders have a slagging match over world war three, let’s have a Sunday roast about the state of our roads, shall we?! Because, let’s face facts, if any roads get a plaster on their war wound it’s not for your safety, it’s for political point scoring. Not a council election coming up by any chance, is there; asking for a friend?!
It’s the hot topic for the public, fed up to the back teeth of bouncing along a lunar landscape, wheel trims flying off in random directions, and deciding whether to shave a wind-mirror from oncoming traffic or delve into a bottomless pit of hell. As a result it’s also one which candidates with or without a seat have focussed on. The problem remains, sorting the reality of humble promises from prospective councillors, from the hyperbole spewing from the desperation of existing ones. But either way, their dedication to national political parties encourages them to fight this out with the same gusto and ethos as national politics, and that’s usually dirty and dishonest.
Hopeful candidates like Taylor Wright, Liberal Democrat candidate for Devizes East was bang on the money when he said, “we heard that potholes were just part of pothole season, as if dangerous roads are something we should simply expect. Now, the explanation has shifted to residents being confused about the works taking place. But the reality is clear, people aren’t confused, they’re frustrated. Windsor Drive has been in an unacceptable state for far too long, with potholes making it a daily challenge for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Calling this frustration “confusion” risks downplaying a very real and serious issue. Rather than shifting explanations, we should be asking why roads like this are allowed to deteriorate so badly in the first place. Devizes deserve safe, well maintained roads, not short-term fixes and new excuses.”
Declan Boore, Liberal Democrat candidate for Devizes South added, “residents have told us loud and clear; roads in disrepair, housing challenges, and the need for stronger local services. We’re not just taking notes, we’re taking action. This campaign is about delivering real change for our communities.”
Such posts on their individual Facebook pages were indirectly criticised by Devizes North Conservative Councillor Iain Wallis, who uses his more general Facebook group, Devizes Issues, strictly censored by himself to keep atop the discussion and delete any opposing views. He lambasted such pledges, stating, “We know the roads aren’t perfect, they never will be. Any candidate in the upcoming election who says otherwise either doesn’t understand the issues, or is trying to mislead. While candidates can say what they like to pull at heartstrings and play on legitimate concerns we have, I will keep doing my best to get to the bottom of the real issues and bring you answers from Highways.” He continued to compare the immense cost needed to repair the roads to the funds available as a justification, and praised the recent investment. He said “bottom” too, tee-hee.
This Conservative claptrap is all a bit Theresa May’s “magic money tree,” isn’t it? The county can find £2.5 billion to propose building a completely unnecessary and permanently damaging tunnel underneath Stonehenge, but ask them to please cover up a few holes in Windsor Drive and they’re suddenly brassic!
Lavington Conservative Councillor Dominic Munnsalsogot wet knickers about the new bobcats, declaring, “Lasting repairs brought about by Wiltshire Council’s £22 million extra investment in our road network and the machinations of our bobcat machines are making a big and visible difference across the county. Bobcats are capable of repairing up to 200 square metres a day – that’s a lot of potholes!”
Humm, that is, lots of potholes; Bobcat the Builder! Can he fix it? Yes, apparently he can, and not a minute too late (election is May.) But surely The Munnster cued that the time is overdue to address the elephant in the room; why are there so many potholes in the first sodding place?! Who’s job is it to highlight the issues to Highways and push things forward?!
We sang the Munnster’s praises upon announcing improvements to the dire and dangerous Black Dog crossroads, seven months ago, yet absolutely nothing has been physically done; just you know, an example to his dedication. If hardworking Munns concentrated on the issue rather than weaponizing the declaration to fire at his opposition we may be some way into carrying the work out by now. The campaign has been ongoing for decades; face it, he simply signed it off and claimed the credit, true Tory stylee. Stating it wouldn’t have been done if the councillor was of any opposition party is hearsay he portrayed as fact, and his downside; no one can say for sure unless the opposing councillor is given an opportunity to.
If I’ve used this analogy before it seems to get directed to a brick wall; if you leave the washing up in the sink, you eventually run out of plates, and you have a much bigger task to address, or eat off the floor like a dog! For the existing councillors can patronise their assurances, they can waffle on social media each time a pothole is shabbily pasted over, but the fact remains the same, Wiltshire Council have seriously neglected road repairs for so many years, the slight problem has amounted to a county-wide embarrassment, and we are the plateless, being treated like dogs.
I’ve been to other counties, some worse than others, but none seem as bad as here. How do they do it? Maybe they didn’t neglect them to begin with, just, you know, a thought. In a 2023 National FOI request into road maintenance repair times, out of the bottom ten, Wiltshire ranked five. 5,565 potholes were reported, the longest fix time was 453 days. The long term damage to vehicles is incalculable and unreportable. Report a pothole on my wilts app they hail their triumph, in the singular! There’s a multitude of ‘em every damn ten centimetres down every single road in the county, and you expect me to fill out a form for each one individually?! Ain’t nobody time fer ‘dat!!
Councillors gather around a repaired pothole to take credit, generally one they live nearby. The only way to live on a pothole-free road in Wiltshire is to move to a house neighbouring a Wiltshire Councillor! It’s a photo-opportunity to post to social media, expecting praise for their drop in the ocean, like showing mummy a picture they drew. They don’t need a medal or flattery, and don’t be manipulated by their propaganda. That. Is. Their. Job! We pay them for this, and if they’d been proactive it wouldn’t have amounted to such the momentous disaster they’re expecting gold stars for patching up.
“The blight of potholes and crumbling road surfaces in Devizes has become untenable, not only is it having an effect on road safety, it is hitting road-users in the pocket,” head of Devizes Guardians, Jonathan Hunter expressed. “The Devizes community expects a far better deal, as opposed to the haphazard and reactive approach to repairs, which is having a crippling impact on the town.”
“Residents want to see Wiltshire Council demonstrate clear leadership with a targeted and sustainable roads programme, as opposed to blaming the state of the roads on the so-called pothole season and relying on road users to pull-up in their vehicles and report every pothole, as a primary solution,” Jonathan continued; he goes on worse than I, but stick with it!
“Devizes expects and deserves a better deal for the town, with Wiltshire Council listening to the community, in harmony with a repair programme that uses quality and sustainable materials, alongside a rolling maintenance program. Instead, and unfortunately, we have local Wiltshire councillors taking to social media to suggest that the good folk of Devizes ‘believe in unicorns’ when it comes to road quality expectations, this approach completely trivialises the pothole epidemic that has sadly become a reality in Devizes.” In which Jonathan is referring to an outrageous post (few of them aren’t) made by our omnipresent hero Councillor Iain Wallis, whereby he slammed the voting population of Devizes for their complaints, and for any who might take heed of the pledges of the opposition, in favour of praising Wiltshire Councillors for their efforts, and said, “believing in unicorns isn’t going to do it.”
Neither is believing in Tory councillors, Boss Hogg. I reserve my freedom of speech, not to provoke, merely to add for satirical effect, you understand?! “Roscoe, arrest them there Duke boys, yeee hawlll!”
If I take the issue out of context, and place it within my own labour, you’ll see how ludicrous it is. Imagine I hadn’t delivered any milk for a whole year, and suddenly I drop two pints of out-of-date sludge off at old Mrs Perkins’ house, take a selfie at said location, post it on social media declaring how I’m delivering the milk, ban anyone who dares to point out my hypocrisy, and delete their comment so I get the final say; I delivered the milk, here I am doing it, if Keir Starmer was delivering the milk, you’d get nothing but rainbow oatmilk and think yourself lucky!!
You wouldn’t stand for it, would you? You’d tell me, sorry, but you’ve found another supplier. Yeah, he might not be as sexy and brash as me, that’s understandable, but at least he’s doing what you paid him to do. Maybe that’s what you must also do come election time.
For the latest in this verbal battle goes beyond debate and into the spread of misinformation, and surely acts as justification for my last paragraph, with perhaps the exception of declaring myself sexier than my successor. On Road repairs, Councillor Iain Wallis threw the teddies from his pram, calling out opposition candidates for “irresponsible posting trying to wind people up and get a few votes!”
Ah, anotherscathing post in which Mr Wallis lambasted who he claimed are the ringleaders as “parties who don’t even stand for Wiltshire Council or do stand but don’t live in Devizes and are not part of the community!” It was a shocking Facebook post implying if you do not stand for Wiltshire Council or you do not live here your view is void and invalid; way to go to win over popular opinion; right out of the Royston Vasey political rulebook.
Shame anyone who dares criticise it on his biassed platform akin to the Daily Express on steroids, will be axed and left complaining to uncaring gammons on the alternative Devizes Issues (but better) group, which exists only for spreading hateful prejudice anyway.
“This type of electioneering does nothing for good community relations and unity, it completely trivialises the dire road situation in Devizes,” Jonathan Hunter reacted, Devizes Guardian not standing therefore with a invalid opinion according to Mr Wallis! “Community campaigners are not ‘ring leaders,’ they are local people who are prepared to stand up for residents. It’s very disappointing that candidates are prepared to stoop to these levels and spread misinformation.”
“I take full responsibility for standing up for residents, and will always own my efforts as we support and work alongside the many local people for a better roads deal for Devizes.This is not electioneering, it’s simply standing up for our community, by calling out years of under investment and lack of listening from those who are elected to represent the folk of Wiltshire.”
“I have been campaigning for a better roads deal for many years, therefore to read a widely shared politically motivated statement, describing all those who are standing up for residents as “ring leaders” is completely unfair, patently wrong, and is an absolute disgrace. This type of behaviour completely trivialises local issues, seeks to drive division and puts the personal interests and ambitions of those seeking election above what really matters, which is community unity and respect for each other.” And you’ve got to admit if you follow the Devizes Issues Facebook group or you’ve been kicked out, Jonathan has a point, and what they are being fed there really is one-sided, opinionated and quite frankly, Trump ethics within a local community, and do we really need this?
I urge all standing councillors to quit backstabbing and get on with the job we pay you to do. Else, urge voters to take heed and give a chance to, not those with broken promises being spiteful at those airing popular opinion, but rather those fresh-faced candidates willing to take them on. That, to me, makes more sense than flogging a dead horse which clearly hasn’t delivered, and of whom occupy most of their time playing the blame game, insulting and censoring anyone who feels it necessary to express their frustrations on the issue, because clearly it is frustrating and counterproductive; all the council has to do is fix a darn pothole, storm in a teacup!!
Pot pourri, Rodney, mange tout! If we’ve brought to your attention as large a variety of local festivals as possible, here is one that is completely unique, and you will learn something from, rather than, like me, remaining speaking French with the fluency of Del-Boy!
Marlborough School of Languages is the newly branded Marlborough Language Tutors’ Hub; a group of independent language tutors who offer a wide range of courses and workshops for secondary school students and adults. They are now taking bookings for the 2024/25 academic year. But as well as these workshops and a Spanish student exchange program, over the week from the 7th to the 11th July they are holding a summer fiesta across Marlborough’s grand high street; a unique week of language, culture and fun!
The fiesta is an immersive summer experience designed for language enthusiasts of all levels, it includes morning language lessons in Spanish, French, Italian and English as a foreign language with expert tutors. There are afternoon cultural talks and workshops in language, culture, and gastronomy, and to really twist your arm, you will also enjoy meals at top local restaurants, a paella feast on Wednesday, and a finale celebration of wine tasting, tapas and live music the tutors call the “Battle of the Nations.”
It must be a challenge second only to teaching pet hamsters quantum mechanics, to teach the average English person a foreign language! Personally, I assume shouting in the same English what has already been misunderstood, while ingeniously adopting a wonky foreign accent will generally suffice! But you should be rest assured the team at Marlborough School of Languages are a dedicated bunch.
There are eight fully-qualified tutors at Marlborough School of Languages. Valérie Calder for French, who comes from Champagne, Italian tutor Claudia Marin from Venice, Laura Simons who teaches English, Welsh and French, Kate Browne from Canterbury, who teaches English, and four Spanish tutors, Nazaret García Val from a town in Zaragoza, Nacho Panadero Carroceda from Vigo, newest member Ignacio Vargas online only from Cantabria, and the founder María González.
“After years of tutoring students of all ages in Wiltshire and London, I decided to offer the locals the opportunity to make their learning experience a social event too,” María explained, native Spaniard from Lugo, in the beautiful Galicia who has lived in the UK for twenty-five years, teaching at Marlborough’s St John’s Academy, organising Spanish learning clubs in local primaries and is now working at the Department of Modern Languages in Marlborough College.
María González
Maria said, “We aim to give our students, whether secondary school pupils or adult learners, a chance to really immerse themselves in the language and understand a little about different cultures from our base in the picturesque Wiltshire market town of Marlborough and online. We offer them the opportunity to engage in cultures and perspectives beyond their immediate environment.”
“The tutors at the fiesta will be Andrew Brown (French), Matt Gow (EFL), Claudia Marin (Italian), and I will teach Spanish,” Maria continued, “Andrew and Matt both worked at Marlborough college and they are just doing this event with me. They have 30 and 25 years of experience so, over the moon with their input!”
This could be the golden opportunity to broaden your horizons and learn a language the fun way, discovering new cultures, and making unforgettable memories. Always a silly sausage, I struggled with languages in school truth be told, troubling with English even, but had my teacher brought in a paella feast things might have been oh so different!!
There are limited spaces available for this, so secure your place with a £100 deposit HERE. The cost overall is £345 per person. Book now at: www.marlboroughsol.com
Contact Marlborough School of Languages at info@marlboroughsol.com or call 07940910821 for more information…. or información, con su permiso mi amigo… okay, there’s no fooling you, I used Google translate, but you might not need to after this and the world will be your oyster, or ostra!
There are only a few tickets left for this year’s Devizes Festival of Winter Ales, an important fundraiser for DOCA…..
This year DOCA has teamed up with the Southgate Inn, who have provided a fantastic selection of thirty ales and ciders, there are pies from Padfield Porkies and sausage rolls from Pig in the Middle.
Saturday 15th February 2025, is the date, at Devizes Corn Exchange. There’s an Early Session – 11am – 5pm and a Late Session – 5:30pm – 11pm.
This year they welcome Glorious Productions, who are excited to bring a taste of their legendary Social Club Cabaret to the Festival of Winter Ales. While you sip your ales and relax they provide comedy, skills and the unexpected! Compere – Goldie Fiasco, Cabaret – Jon Udry and Jude Elizabeth. And Vince Bell and Adam Woodhouse play the early session, while Burn the Midnight Oil and Junkyard Dogs take the later session.
New for 2025: based on attendee feedback, there will be a slight difference between the 2 sessions this year. Both sessions will have the same great selection of beers, alongside brilliant entertainment from bands and cabaret. However, the Early Session (11am – 5pm) will be slightly more low-key for entertainment, geared more towards those who are mostly interested in beer tasting. The Late Session (5:30pm – 11pm) will be slightly more entertainment focussed for those looking for a buzzier vibe alongside their beer.
This is a fundraising event to help meet the costs of DOCA’s free annual programme of outdoor arts events and activities, including the Street Festival, Confetti Battle, Carnival, Winter Festival and Lantern Parade.
The Festival of Winter Ales is an 18+ event. The layout will be similar to 2024 with some seating, and some standing. If you require a seat for accessibility reasons, please contact DOCA at info@docadevizes.org.uk
More information on the Winter Ales entertainment…
Goldie Fiasco – This year’s Festival of Winter Ales will be compered by the ‘wonderfully bonkers and totally endearing!’ Goldie Fiasco. Goldie is a veteran performer with thousands of shows under her belt including – Glastonbury Festival Circus Big Top, Edinburgh Fringe, The Social Club Cabaret, Bestival, Shambala, Komedia, and Main Stage Redfest. She will preside over a smorgasbord of delectable entertainment for your delight. Sit back and enjoy the ride.
Jon Udry – There are jugglers. There are comedians. And there is Jon Udry. Jon combines the two to such a brilliant effect that his unique performance has his audience roaring with laughter from entrance to the final curtain. Formerly the British Young Juggler Of The Year and New Act of the Year Finalist 2018, Jon’s skills and stage persona have brought his show onto various television and radio shows, as well as being a regular on the bill at prestigious festivals like Glastonbury.
Jon travels internationally, working on a host of luxury cruise lines, at festivals and events, and – due to his unique comedy style – his show is also at home on the domestic comedy club circuit. Jon’s repertoire is not the normal type of speciality act – instead, it’s young, offbeat, quirky and hugely impressive. His current show ‘Jon Udry Punches Gravity in the Face’ is quickly becoming his most successful to date with a host of bookings around the UK, Europe and beyond.
Jude Elizabeth – Jude trained as a professional ballet dancer but turned to Circus over a decade ago specialising in Aerial arts and Handbalance. Now internationally renowned, she has performed alongside Hugh Jackman at The Brit Awards, performed for the Royals and at some of the most prestigious venues in the world. We look forward to bringing her exceptional talent and elegance to our stage.
Vince Bell – A talented singer-songwriter based in Devizes, Vince Bell is a prominent figure in the local music scene. Known for pouring raw emotion into his songwriting, he creates deeply personal yet universally relatable songs. His music is meticulously crafted and delivered with a captivating sincerity, showcasing his artistry and passion. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including the likes of John Martyn, Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, and Richard Thompson, Vince’s sound is both unique and richly textured, resonating with audiences on a profound level.
Adam Woodhouse – Guitarist and singer, Adam Woodhouse has a love of country, blues and folk music. As a solo acoustic performer, these influences are always apparent, no matter what musical genre he is playing. Adam covers a wide range of music from across the decades, bringing his own style, vibe and humour to a collection of well-known hits.
Burn the Midnight Oil – are a powerhouse trio that skim the surface of blues, country, folk, rock and pop with an all-original repertoire.
Junkyard Dogs – Junkyard Dogs are a group of seasoned musicians with a shared love of Blues and goodtime Rock & Roll. Don’t forget your dancing shoes and let the good times roll!
If we’re nearly out of the prolonged gloom of January, note it’s still winter but we’ve climatised and are ready to party. February this year looks positively booming with music events. This weekend alone looks hotter for events than it will probably be climate wise!
Leading us up to the start of the month, Swindon Shuffle’s new wintery thang SwinterFest is covering days all this coming weekend from Thursday and onto the 1st and 2nd; Saturday is at the Castle, Sunday at the Beehive, check the poster for the fantastic lineup. Another amazing fundraiser for Prospect House.
Thursday 3oth Jan
Also in Swindon find Ian Barrett Band with Bare Knuckle Asylum and Tiddles the Hellcat at The Vic. Ignacio Lopez at Swindon Arts Centre, and Jack Dee’s Small World at The Wyvern Theatre.
New Writing Night at The Rondo Theatre, Bath, and Tom Jones’ favourite singer Mim Grey is at Chapel Arts.
Follow Comedy Club at Qudos in Salisbury, Alistair McGowan at Salisbury Playhouse, and Limehouse Lizzy at Salisbury Arts Centre.
Friday 31st Jan
Jamie Hawkins is at The Bridge in Horton. The Tipsy Gypsies are at The Royal Oak in Pewsey.
The Blunders are at the Pump in Trowbridge, with The Lindup Brothers & Hometown Devilry. Morphew School of Dance presents A Wish Come True at the Civic Centre.
As well as SwinterFest, Last Train Smokin’ are at The Beehive, Swindon. Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde at Swindon Arts Centre,and Cirque Enchantment at The Wyvern Theatre.
Stable at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.
Lucy Loves Liquor at the Coach and Horses in Salisbury. Diamond Froggs at Deacons, and Barnstormers Comedy at Salisbury Arts Centre. Salisbury Playhouse has That’ll Be The Day.
Sound of the Sirens at The Tree House in Frome. Dire Streets at The Cheese & Grain.
Saturday 1st
Falls on Deaf Ears at the Southgate in Devizes, and there’s a Long Street Blues Club night at the Cons Club with The John Martin Project. Devizes Scooter Club promises a soul, Motown, ska and reggae DJ night at the Football Club, and Mr M & The Original PJ have a soul night also, at the Bear Hotel. DJ Karl Maggs playing club hits at the Exchange.
Bodge It & Scarper at The Bear, Marlborough, Jam Night at The Barge, HoneyStreet.
Three upcoming local DJs, ET Tronic, FLAM and Artoid play a Future Sound of Trowbridge night at The Pump, while Junkyard Dogs are at the host pub, The Lamb. Morphew School of Dance presents A Wish Come True, a matinee at the Trowbridge Civic Centre.
D’ Ska Assassins are at Prestbury Sports Bar in Warminster.
Mustard Allegro at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Colin Hoult: Colin at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.
As well as Swinterfest in Swindon, Mojo plays The Swiss Chalet, Still Marillion at The Vic, and Peter Andre stars in The Best Of Frankie Valli at The Wyvern Theatre!
There’s a Winter FiggleFest at Figheldean Village Hall. Jetpack at The Ram, Tidworth.
Wiltshire Creative Comedy Club with Lucy Beaumont at Salisbury Playhouse. Sarum’s Lot at Qudos. Lucas Hardy, Rosie Jay and Rich Butcher at The Avon Brewery Inn Salisbury and Graffiti Classics: The Comedy String Quartet at Salisbury Arts Centre.
Laurence Jones is at The Tree House in Frome, and there’s an Retro Electro at the Cheese & Grain.
Sunday 2nd Feb
Jon Amor Trio with guest Shannon Harris at The Southgate, Devizes.
Everyone Says Hi are Instore at Sound Knowledge in Marlborough, which we previewed.
Super Blue Moon at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
The Roy Orbison Story at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
Sunday Session at The Coach & Horses, Salisbury with Ben Nicholls
Open Mic at George and Dragon, Salisbury.
CSF Pro Wrestling Showdown at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
But of course, you’d know all this if you keep checking into our event calendar! We are not running the weekly roundups any longer due to it being time consuming which basically just repeats what’s been listed already. It was just that this weekend seems to have really opened up for events again, and see this as a gentle reminder to keep checking into Devizine, as the calendar is always updating, as fast as I possibly can add listings!
Do contact us if we’ve missed your event out, and we can list it free for you.
If I’m considering reviewing worldwide music again, why stop with this planet?! Though I’ve reasoned two tenacious links to mention this madcap Scottish interstellar outfit; one, their tour lands them at Frome’s Cheese and Grain on Saturday April 19th, and two, they’re called Henge, and as Wiltshire houses the most famous one of them, that’ll do!
Why am I so keen to mention them? It’s the challenge of summing up something completely unique. It requires a gaping pigeonhole, comical jazzy post-rave space-rock probably best suits; bonkers, in a word. Someone shared a video of them headlining the Shambala Festival and I was abducted, though while I’ve not listened to their previous three albums, we’ll launch off with their forthcoming album Journey to Voltus B, set for release on January 31st, exactly ten years to the day from when the band gave their first live performance on planet Earth.
This is truly out of this world fantastic, and what should’ve been playing at the Cantina in Star Wars. It’s like Scott Joplin came after Eat Static, or Miles Davis was a member of Hawkwind. If Funki Porcini met Altern 8, or Philip K Dick was a guest on Yo Gabba Gabba, it’s the sum of all these parts yet it’s none of them, because it’s alien, pinching Jeff Wayne’s stash for testing purposes and stranding him on an uninhabited Plutoid!
Over seven certifiably insane but glorious tunes you travel to Voltus B with the half-druid mutant electronic spacerockers, the planet of an advanced civilisation with a looming atomic future, and you get to decide their fate!
Side B of the vinyl version of the album has been innovatively cut in ‘parallel groove’ with two tracks, both called Power of the Atom, pressed concentrically to each other on the same side of the record. While one track tells the bleak fate of Voltus B after its inhabitants use their newfound knowledge of atomic power to make weapons, with the planet annihilated in war and entering a nuclear winter; the other tells the story of the planet’s future after the aliens decide to use their scientific discovery to create limitless clean energy through Nuclear Fusion.
But you are supplied with the mission brief enroute. Ascending is the opening tune and first single, which is out now and available on all platforms. It blasts off without waiting for you to lock into position. Then it’s a Slingshot around Mars to get us on our way, a post-punky robotic vocal track with equal pace, which falls dramatically by the third tune as we enter Hypersleep. As it suggests, this is the dreamy ambience of the Orb, and you await for landing, in audio bliss. Descending next, and we’re off again with the crazy uptempo nut-filled jazzy explosion of synths. You’re welcomed to Voltus B like it was a nineties free party, then comes the concluding narrative, like Edward Packard’s Choose Your Own Adventure book series, on acid!
Of the new single, Henge frontman and crew captain, Zpor, explains, “with this new single Ascending we are setting the scene for our latest adventure into space. As we blast off from Earth, it becomes clear that YOU, the listener, are among our crew for this high-stakes voyage, where the fate of an entire planet is literally in your hands.”
This is, without doubt, mind-blowingly progressive, and highly entertaining, especially for stoners, Trekkies and kids of all ages alike, and I tick all those boxes. It’s child-friendly psychedelic vaudeville, the Jetsons meet the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, in Lego.
This new favourite thing made me think about the end of ET, and why Elliot couldn’t go with him, because if music is like this elsewhere in the universe and I was Elliot, I’d have packed glow sticks into my backpack and not looked back at Earth once!
In support of their latest campaign, HENGE are embarking on an extensive run of UK shows planned for 2025. Join the band at the following locations and venues:
Devizes welcomed a charming new coffee shop to The Market Place today, called Caffe Vialottie; I thought it best to drop by, poke my nose in…..
Caffe Vialottie takes over the listed number 35, where the cherished Times Square closed its doors for the final time in June 2024. The walls are adorned with some nice artwork, the colour theme altered to a dark green and cream, but the tried and tested layout remains much the same as Times Square. It was met with busy enthusiasm by customers, many I suspect devotees of the previous cafe happy to see it back in action. “Everyone wants to try the new cafe,” manager Chelsie Godden greeted me, between frantically serving customers, “it’s been busy, but nice!”
While Chelsie worked at Times Square previously, the owner was new to the area. He stressed the importance of creating an individual space, adamant copying the mainstream coffee shop chains wasn’t on the agenda here, he said, “I think we’ve got something special here, something nice.”
If the word nice was coincidentally dropped twice, it certainly is that; nothing negative could be said about Caffe Vialottie. It seemed friendly, with a vibe to fit like a glove into Devizes. Yet with coffee being centre stage, tea and a good choice of soft drinks, there’s only toasties and a selection of cakes and Kettle crisps to wash down. It is, primarily, a “light lunch” stop-off point, rather than attempting to be a restaurant, and despite the call not to replicate the major coffee shop chains, unfortunately we do have a lot of similar establishments already in Devizes.
But hey, it does what it says on the tin, hospitably, and is price-matched with the established competitors in town. While personally I’d like to see someone trying something different and off the wall, ideas like tapas and Caribbean themed cafes haven’t been so successful in Devizes recently, as the tried and tested formula of tea, coffee and cake, seems to appease locals more. It is with that notion we wish Caffe Vialottie all the best of luck in these trying times, and hope future days will emulate the success of their opening day. Devizes can never have enough coffee it seems!
by Mick Brianimages from Lauren Arena-McCann The playwright Tom Stoppard is probably best known for his work “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead”, his absurdist comedy…
You might think it’s a laryngologist’s dream come true, this Lewis Capaldi-led decade’s penchant for the blue-eyed soul singers’ melismatic strain to cause Mick Hucknall…
Nothing cruel about our George Wilding; with his perfect match and another local legend of local music, Jolyon Dixon, they’re knocking out great singles like…
There’s a new single from Bristol-based Nothing Rhymes With Orange out tomorrow (Saturday 20th September) which takes the band to a whole new level, and…
With the big C ticked off, there’s one big push for the final night of 2024. Time to throw off all your aggravations, like who keeps putting the empty wrappers back into the Quality Street container. The busiest Tuesday of the year is coming up fast, and we have thirty-five options in Wiltshire of where to celebrate it, and counting……
Devizes
Starting off at our base, Devizes with a jam potato at the Southgate, where Jamie Hawkins, Tom Harris and Pat Ward are taking them into the New Year. Soundhog Karaoke takes over The Three Crowns. There’s a Back to Skool New Year’s Eve Party at the Pelican. All of these are free. DJs The Original PJ & Mister M have a party at The Bear Ballroom, ticketed. Also on the door, The Exchange has a fancy dress party with DJ Maggs. The Conservative Club has DJ Andy Saunders and live music from The Saga Louts, ticketed.
Around and about Devizes, find a party at Seend Community Hall. The Reason plays The Green Dragon in Market Lavington.
Pewsey
Pewsey area, there’s a New Years Eve Party at Woodborough Social Club. Woodbridge Inn has the Muddy Drifters, plus guests and a free buffet. And Rich the Ditch is on decks at The Barge on HoneyStreet. Find No Middle Ground at the Royal British Legion Hall in Burbage.
Marlborough
An acoustic NYE at The Bear in Marlborough with Bodge It And Scarper, free. At St Peter’s, there’s a Great Gatsby New Year’s Eve Party, ticketed.
Calne
Six O’Clock Circus plays the Talbot in Calne. Plan of Action at The Jenny Wren. DJ Caztro at The Wheatsheaf, all free.
Melksham
Free at Melksham Cons Club, The Blue Moon Band. Raindrops at Spencer’s Club, tickets from the club. New Year’s Eve Party at the Forresters. Band of Others at The White Hart, Atworth.
Chippenham
Burbank at Old Lane, Chippenham. Opera Sulis presents Opera Pops and Broadway Beats with DJ Bobbi for a New Year’s Eve Extravaganza at Wine Monkey.
Trowbridge
Be Like Will are at The Gloucester Road Cons Club in Trowbridge. There’s a NYE party at the Civic Hall. And a Boaty Extravaganza at The Twelve Bells, see poster below..
Hungerford
Static Moves play the Hungerford Town Football Club.
Swindon
In Swindon, if you’re a metaller be at the Vic, where Nu-Call have A Nu-Metal New Years. And ravers head to Levels.
Salisbury
George Wilding is with Jolyon Dixon & Rachel Sinnetta at The New Inn, Amesbury.
In Salisbury, Total Recall is at the Coach and Horses. Lucas Hardy & Paul Furtado at The George & Dragon. Ribble at the New Inn. Tom & The Clementynes at Qudos. Linz Sutton at the Anchor & Hope. Karaoke with Evie at the Greyfisher. The Treblemakers at Laverstock & Ford Sports Club. The Deloreons at Salisbury Arts Centre.
Frome
New Years Eve Party at the Cheese & Grain in Frome, with The Hammervilles.
And that’s a wrap. I think there’s plenty to choose from there, but I’m sure there will be more, so keep your best eye on our ever updating event calendar….and have a Happy New Year! There’s all the info and ticket links you need on the calendar.
Didn’t find your event here? Did you tell me about it?! Ah, there you are then, new year’s resolution, tell Devizine and get your gig listed FREE!
Exciting news, isn’t it? Enough to cause me to skip merrily through the daisies in my garden as naked as a cherub, and sing its praises from every rooftop from here to Wellington Drive.…
“Oh hear ye, oh hear ye, Devizes hath been blessed! Devizes, oh, Devizes, magically upgraded from a one to a two-Greggs town!” fairies chant over a maid tinkering on a harpsichord, sprinkling their fairy dust in jubilation. Won’t someone sign me into my Facebook account so I can spread word of it pronto: twelve “likes” and counting, three are love heart emojis, yay! I blush at my popularity and bite into my steak bake milliseconds before it gets cold.
Yesh, brothers, sisters, true as I sit here typing this crap, another Greggs bakery chainstore has majestically opened in Devizes like the second coming of a prophet, making us a two-Greggs town now, and you know what that means….
You do know what that means, don’t you? No, neither do I, really. They have pasties with peas in them; peas have no home in a pasty, that’s too much of a trigger. Job opportunities, perhaps, and that’s good, right? The notion that one quick swerve from the congested fury on London Road, and you can be refreshed with a lukewarm cuppa and a salty dog-meat sausage roll as traffic builds up behind you. You need no longer to stop off in the Market Place and realise there are better quality local produces available, and that has to be the winner winner chicken baguette dinner, hands down. At least it beats knowing you’re funding a convicted nonce, eh?
Otherwise, I see no valid reason to jump for joy. Swindon has thirteen Greggs, Chippenham has four; do you see them wetting their knickers when another opens? We don’t even beat electronic talking Christmas tree’d Melksham, dammit, they’ve got three… and don’t get me started on the Golden Arches. Unfair, Devizes Town Council, just because no one has actually ever applied to open a Maccy-D’s here, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pull your bloody fingers out and kidnap Ronald McDonald until he starts supplying his celebrated Fillet-0-Fishes and McNuggets here. Damn your eyes, sirs, and look around at the desperate and needy fast food generation, see their tiny tears welling!
Stop catering to a yesteryear generation, eating on plates is soooo last millennium; we’ve surpassed Wimpy and demand our pointless packaging.
For what is a town without the splattering of unwanted pickles on its pavements? What is the measure of a place where rat-enticing decomposing chicken bones in a Colonel Sanders bucket isn’t found dumped down every alleyway, I cry? Hark, the sound of a Deliveroo moped on an otherwise quiet evening? These are the things upcoming generations will hold in dearest retrospection upon reaching maturity. But come, let us flock around this new arrival in awe, on this December slow news day, for it is all we have and we learn to make do; save Subway, of course, where seven of your best earned quids will see you handling a BLT roll, you total ledge.
Ah, monopolisation has found a new home in Devizes and to hell with the independent bakeries, I chortle like a chav, as my belt buckle bursts from the weight of more cholesterol-hugging delights. Factual reporting here you know, I researched for this bitch of a scoop. Queues out the door and through the Shambles to get a Greggs at the Winter Festival, there was, while independent eateries a stone’s throw away nervously twitched their feet at the hope someone might drop by. And that’s reason enough to justify the opening of a second Greggs, question what have we become, and munch happily into our affordable pepperoni pizza slice till the watery juice stains our shirts.
Yeah, come over to mine, mate, celebrate its magnificent arrival; we’ve got a gazebo in the garden, going to play some Pop-Up Pirate and get some tandoori chicken baguettes in. Whoa, chicken? I thought that was “woke” now? The Daily Fail said it so it’s true, numpties! Get a “real,” pea-less pasty and shop for savoury delights from local purveyors, please.
Being as we received a taster of wintery weather to come this week, I believe it’s okay to use the C-word; yes, Christmas!!
Here’s everything we’ve found to do in and around Devizes, so far, from now until New Year’s Eve, in addition, of course, to decorating trees, picking all the toffee pennies out of the Quality Street tin, and enjoying watching Hans Gruber fall from the Nakatomi Plaza….
Do remember though our event calendar is constantly updating, so do keep an eye on it, as more events may well be added when they’re brought to our attention. And if you’re in another town, check our event calendar for events in your area; sorry you are not included here, we still love you, but there’s only so many hours in a day!
Lets go from this weekend, but be warned, there’s a lot to get through. Ongoing photographic exhibition at the Valentina Gallery, opposite SoupChick in the Shambles, ends on 2nd December.
Thursday 21st November sees an Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt at the Corn Exchange.
Friday 22nd: Public Living Room is open at the Cheese Hall from 1.30-4pm. John Girvan’s celebrated Ghost Walk of Devizes, takes on a Christmas spin. You find tickets at the Wiltshire Museum website. Queen tribute Qween UK plays the Corn Exchange. Recommended trip out of town: boom-bap legends The Scribes are at the Barge on Honeystreet.
Saturday 23rd November: and there’s a Sighthound Stroll at 12pm. Devizes Eisteddfod’s Junior Showcase at the Town Hall. The FullTone Orchestra is at the Corn Exchange with an 80s special, so get your rah-rah skirts dusted and ready.
The Sylvertones are at The Three Crowns. The Ben Fletcher Band at The Southgate. DJ Emilo is bringing in the sounds at the Exchange. And for a short trip out of town, I recommend The Killer Circus show at Market Lavington Community Hall, with a double-header of mod-indie, britpop and ska with The Killertones Underground and 6 O’clock Circus. Or The Publicans at the Royal Oak, Pewsey.
Sunday 24th, The Duskers are at the Southgate for 5pm start, same time, it’s nice to see live music back at the White Bear too; Andrew Hurst kicks those Sunday Sessions back into gear.
Tuesday 26th sees Devizes Lions Bingo Night at the Conservative Club.
Wednesday 27th, don’t forget the acoustic jam at the Southgate.
Thursday 28th – do not miss this, the fantastic Ruby Darbyshire is doing a Fantasy Radio Live Lounge from 7pm at The Pelican. The Last Thursday of each month is also open mic time in the Cellar Bar of the Bear Hotel, from 7:30pm.
Friday 29th is the Winter Festival, on go the lights and Christmas begins officially in Devizes!
12:00 – 20:00: Indoor & Outdoor Markets and Creative Installations. Lantern Parade at 18:30. 19:00 is Christmas Light Switch On. Window Wanderland begins and runs until 2nd Dec. Look out for the Cascade Chandelier, in the Shambles!
There will be several opportunities to get crafty over Winter Festival weekend with bookable artist-led workshops. More workshops will be dropping soon, so keep an eye on DOCA’s social media! Willow Reindeer Workshop from 10am to 4pm at the Yeoman Room, Corn Exchange. Sarah Jayne Edwards works in willow in all scales, she made the Sanctuary that appeared on the Green in Devizes 2023. Spend a day with her where she will support you to create your own beautiful willow reindeer.
All materials will be provided on these creative workshops, no experience needed. Event capacity for each is only 8 people. Participants must be aged 16 years or over. There are 2 free places allocated for low-income participants, no questions asked. If you would like to claim one of these places, please email: info@docadevizes.org.uk
Elsewhere in Devizes, the fantastic People Like Us are at The Three Crowns, it’s the Pour House’s official opening party, and karaoke at the Pelican. Big Plus: it’s panto season at the Wharf Theatre with the opening night of Hansel & Gretel; this is superb, I’ve seen the rehearsal, you’re going to love it, young and old. Hansel & Gretel continues until 7th December, tickets are sold out, but you can join a waiting list.
Saturday 30th sees a Devizes Lions book sale at St Mary’s Church.
Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts Winter Festival continues, presenting ‘Crow’ by Avanti Display. ‘Crow’ is a beguiling, genre-defying, beautifully odd show. It teases us with strange images, magical clowning and bewitching visual images. Accompanied by a live inventive score. Video projections expand their comic and curious world, suggesting ideas both profound and absurd. This is a ticketed event at Sheep Street Baptist Church and starts at 6pm.
Also part of the Winter Festival, from 10am to 3pm, there’s an Outdoor Market with Music & Street Entertainment, and Makery Sessions Craft Workshops at various times. Porcelain Christmas Decorations Workshop at Parnella House from 10am to 1pm, with Geraldine Francis.
Contemporary Wreath Making Workshop at 2pm to 5pm at Parnella House with Nancy Rose Stott, an accomplished maker, best known for her amazing hats. All materials will be provided, no experience needed. Event capacity: 8 people only. Participants must be aged 16 years or over. There are 2 free places allocated for low-income participants, no questions asked. If you would like to claim one of these places, please email: info@docadevizes.org.uk
There’s also a Christmas Wreath Making Workshop at Poulshot Village Hall, not DOCA related.
Groovedream at The Three Crowns. Red Light at The Southgate.
And relax, it’s Sunday, but it is December 1st! Curious Kids: Winter Fun at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. The Pelican has a winter festival Christmas Lunch. JP Oldfield is at the White Bear at 5pm, the Jon Amor Trio residency at the Southgate, same time, and One More Shot at the Black Horse.
Monday 2nd, find a new open mic session at the Pour House, set up by the one and only JP Oldfield; very busy boy atm!
Wednesday 4thDecember: acoustic jam night at the Southgate.
Friday 6th sees a new regular acoustic session on Fridays at The Southgate, this week has JP Oldfield, Sammi Evans & Bryan Davies playing. White Horse Opera presents some Christmas Music at St Andrews. It’s Christmas Mixup night at the Exchange.
Saturday 7th, there’s a tour behind the scenes at Wiltshire Museum, and another Ghost Walk Christmas Special with John Griven.
The Shudders are at The Southgate. James Mitchell at The Three Crowns. The Coco Club Christmas Ball at the Corn Exchange. Christmas Party at the Exchange. Recommendations out of town, find a reggae night with Knatti P at the Barge on Honeystreet and Ruby Darbyshire at the Woodbridge.
Sunday 8th sees a family Christmas Party at West Lavington Village Hall in aid of Julia’s House. Sunflower Events Christmas Fair at the Corn Exchange. Christmas Fayre at The Barge, Seend Cleeve.
Music at the Southgate from 5pm with The Wholesome Soul Trio.
Wednesday 11th, acoustic jam at the Southgate.
Thursday 12th is the second Exchange Comedy Night for The Mayor’s Appeal.
Friday 13th there’s Devizes Good Afternoon Choir’s Christmas Invitation with Children from Wansdyke School at St Andrew’s Church. Young Curators Club: Mid-Winter Celebrations: Yule and Saturnalia at Wiltshire Museum.
Saturday 14th: Table-top Sale for Camps International to Peru Trip: 12-4pm at The Wharfside. LECTURE: Digging for Erlestoke by Leigh Chalmers and Dr Phil Harding at Wiltshire Museum. And the opening of a new exhibit at the Museum, Megalithic Connections – Drawings & Etchings by Dave Gunning, which runs until 22nd Feb.
Christmas Market at Hillworth Park, in which Santa is fully booked, but he’s also at, Breakfast With Santa at the Fire Station! Santa! Hey! I know him!
The Big Sound Christmas Concert at the Corn Exchange. Sour Apple at the Three Crowns, The Worried Men at The Southgate. And Karl Maggs has got the Jingle Bangers in the mix at the Exchange.
Sunday 15th, Wish Tree Gathering from 3-5pm at Quaker’s Walk. Devizes Town Band Christmas Party at the Corn Exchange. And Manos Puestas at The Southgate at 5pm.
Wednesday 18th, acoustic jam at the Southgate.
Friday 20th, John Grivan’s celebrated Ghost Walk of Devizes, takes on a Christmas spin. You find tickets at the Wiltshire Museum website.
Devizes most celebrated house nights, Palooza returns to The Exchange.
Saturday 21st: Barrelhouse at The Southgate. Adam Woodhouse at The Three Crowns, and the Long Street Blues Club Christmas Party with the Thomas Atlas Band. DJ Mike Alford is at the Exchange.
Sunday 22nd is the Tractor & Tinsel Run at the Market Place. Charity Fundraiser with Burn The Midnight Oil, new band fronted by the fantastic Chrissy Chapman at The Southgate, from 5pm.
Monday 23rd: The Unpredictables at The Three Crowns, being anything but unpredictable!
Tuesday 24th: Spend Christmas Eve at The White Bear, where the one, the only Jamie R Hawkins will be singing a few songs with Vince Bell too.
Thursday 26th: The Last Thursday of each month is also open mic time in the Cellar Bar of the Bear Hotel, from 7:30. We assume this will take place as usual.
Friday 27th: Drew Bryant at The Three Crowns. Twixmas Fun Quiz at The Pelican. DJ Stevie MC at the Exchange for an after Christmas Party.
Saturday 28th: The Killertones Underground at The Southgate; nice one!
Tuesday, New Year’s Eve: find Soundhog Karaoke at The Three Crowns. Back to Skool New Year’s Eve Party at the Pelican. The Original PJ & Mister M at the Bear Hotel. DJ Karl Maggs at The Exchange, and NYE Party at Seend Community Centre; Happy New Year!
That’s your lot, unless there’s something we missed? Tell us about it, please do, we can add it, it isn’t going to cost you anything more than being nice to me when you see me next! I hope everyone has been good all year, and wish you all a merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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Remember, remember, we’re moving into November; leaves, loads of ‘em! Being as we are no longer doing weekly roundups, here’s some highlights of events in Devizes during November, but do pay attention, there’s lots more listed on our event calendar, from all over our county, and it’s always updating, so keep checking in HERE too!
Dave’s birthday beer festival at the Southgate, for the entire weekend and into Monday. Find Sammi Evans, Josh Oldfield & Gordon Thompson there on Friday 1st, and Courting Ghosts, I believe, are there on Saturday; not sure about the rest, but I think the focus is on the beer; if you can focus on beer! Happy birthday, Dave!
Talking taps, we send our best of luck to The Pour House, taking over the old Vaults in St John’s Street, Devizes. It’s their grand opening on Friday 1st.
On Saturday 2nd, there’s a tap top sale in Couch Lane, we have the Lions Club Arts Coaching Day, and Quakers Walk Community Biodiversity Group are bulb planting and preparing wildflower beds. Sunflower Events host a Christmas Market at the Corn Exchange from 11am to 6 on Saturday, 11am to 4 on Sunday.
While those Roughcut Rebels return to the Three Crowns, and Dave’s birthday beer fest continues at the Southgate, Mississippi MacDonald Band kicks off a long month of gigs at Long Street Blues Club, with Sons of the Delta in support. Isosceles Theatre Company are at the Wharf Theatre on Saturday, with a performance of Murder; Just What the Doctor Ordered. In aid of Swindon & Devizes Sands, there’s a Back to School disco at the Wyvern Club.
Sunday 3rd, it’s Devizes Fireworks at the Football Club. Jon Amor Trio residency at the Southgate. A concert in Chirton too, see poster below!
Monday 4th, The Opening of the Garden of Remembrance at the War Memorial, 10.45hrs.
Wednesday 6th, the regular acoustic jam night at the Southgate, of course!
Thursday 7th, Devizes Film Club is at The Wharf, with a screening of Finnish film Fallen Leaves.
Friday 8th, Muck & Dunder have a DJ set from Dub Pistol Barry Ashworth. Devizes Arts Festival presents a night of comedy at the Corn Exchange. And The Devizes Eisteddfod opens for Music, Speech & Drama, and runs until 17th November 2024.
Saturday 9th has the Provincial Booksellers Fairs Association’s Book Fair at the Corn Exchange from 10am. Stone’s Throw are at The Three Crowns. And while Swindon’s amazing folk ensemble SGO are at the Southgate, The Ian Siegal Band are at Long Street Blues Club with Ruby Darbyshire in support, both unmissable!
Sunday 10th: Remembrance in Devizes. 09.15hrs Muster in the Marketplace. 10.00hrs Church Service at St John’s Church. After service Reform in Long Street. 11.00hrs Last Post-Two Minutes Silence- reveille Wreath Laying and Parade Marches Back to Marketplace.
Mr Griff & The Grifters play The Southgate, Devizes, from 5pm.
Monday 11th: Remembrance in Devizes. At the War Memorial: 10.45hrs for The National Two Minutes silence.
Wednesday 13th, sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate.
Friday 15th find the brilliant Siren at the Three Crowns.
Saturday 16th there’s a Mynt Image Craft Fair at the Corn Exchange, from 10am. Free entry and a great range of superb quality products.
John Otway makes a welcome return to Devizes, at the Long Street Blues Club, and Billy and the Lowground in support; a different night for the club, highly recommended this one!
Wednesday 20th, sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate. Devizes Flower Club is jingling all the way to the Corn Exchange.
Thursday 21st and there’s an Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt at the Corn Exchange.
Friday 22nd Queen tribute act, Qween UK at the Corn Exchange, no excuses for spellings from us, that is what it is, lets hope they will rowk you!
Saturday 23rd you can find The Sylvertones at The Three Crowns, but not a lot else I’ve heard about as of yet. Time maybe to pop over to Lavington for this….
Wednesday 27th, sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate.
Thursday 28th head down to the Pelican, where Fantasy Radio presents a Live Lounge with Ruby Darbyshire. Also, it’s open mic night at The Cellar Bar, Bear Hotel from 7:30pm.
Friday 29th is DOCA Winter Festival, lights switching on, lantern parade, mulled wine, Devizes Town Band playing Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and all the gubbings; and that’s when I’m officially in the Christmas mode! Window Wanderland runs from here until 2nd Dec, and the fun continues into Saturday too!
Double-whammy, the Hazel & Gretel panto opens at the Wharf Theatre on Friday too. Note, due to popularity they’ve added dates, and it runs until the 7th December now. I will be going to see it long before you, and I’ll be here to tell you about it; what? Perks of the job!!
Also on Saturday 30th, ever popular covers unique trio People Like Us will be at the Three Crowns. White Horse Opera at Market Lavington Community Hall.
That’s all for now, folks! Did I miss something out? Did you tell us about it?! We update all the time, so, rest assured more will be added when they come in, and if you cannot find something to entertain you here, you can leave town! In a nice way, you understand, we do have roads and Devizine lists events within range of Devizes as well as in Devizes; so remember, remember, to check the EVENT CALENDER!!
Devizes Food & Drink Festival came to a close for this year with the most amazing World Food event at the Corn Exchange on Sunday…it was yummy on an international scale!
It’s an annual finale I’ve missed in previous years, but was persuaded to attend by Dora who was there with a sweet Hong Kong dish of tapioca and melon. And that’s the premise, any local with ethnic roots is invited to serve a taster dish from their country of origin. One raffle ticket equals one dish, a strip of five costs just £3, the event is free to attend.
This arrangement makes this event arguably the best one on the Food & Drink Festival program, if the others require a ticket and the opening food market, while diverse in choices of tucker, vendors are left to their own devices and tend to sell fuller dishes at fuller costs, therefore should you wish to try something different you’re committed to a single choice or two. Here you circulate the hall safe in the knowledge that if the dish was not to your liking, it’s only set you back sixty pee, and there’s lots more options priced the same. It is a reserved and courteous dash, being a first-come-first-served situation and only a set amount of dishes from each table; I arrived punctual, and peckish. Best advice I could give about this event is to try and arrive before me!
For this, those who know the score with this event are queuing as far as the old Natwest bank waiting for it to open as if it was an Oasis reunion gig! And they were right to, it was fantastic and gorged-aciously gorgeous, and I’d kick myself for not attending before if I wasn’t balancing three dishes of various national dishes!
If you know me well you’ll know I do love my grub, and I’ve eclectic tastes, save eggs! I’m in my element here, trekking the world like Jules Verne’s cutlery, without leaving the Devizes Corn Exchange. Though there’s less than eighty tables, it’s certainly plentiful. First stop, Zimbabwe for some tasty Sadza Balls, onto a lovely Romanian stew I’m not even going to attempt to spell, and then I’m back in Africa, for South African Chakalaka; loved the name, preferred the dish, it was probably my favourite if I was forced to pick one!
It is perhaps for the adventurous, this event, and unlike a more multicultural place, we’re restricted here to Italian, Chinese and Indian restaurants, therefore to explore the more unusual is key to experiencing the best of the occasion. With this ethos, the Western European tables aren’t attracting the same attention as the Eastern European, African or Asian ones. Nevertheless, I tried the Italian one as they had something I’d not seen before, Lenticchie De Capodana, a lentil stew which they told me is traditionally served at New Year and is therefore more of a household dish than something you’d find in restaurants. Herein is the interesting angle of the event as a whole, these are home cooked dishes and not pampered or adapted to an international palette, as meals in restaurants might well be.
There were a few tables I did not try, such as Scottish haggis, I didn’t so in favour of the more exotic ones, and prevention from over-indulging (of which I was close to the border already.) I mean, when do you get to try Rourou patties with Dalo from Fiji, in Devizes, huh?! This one was particularly unusual, and tasty, as equally as those from the Ukraine, a berry and cream pudding from Denmark, even some apple layered sponge cake from Guernsey; yes, they had puddings too, get in!
Though they didn’t have any drinks, so take a bottle of water with you next year. But do go, it was scrumptious, communal, and a grand finale to the Food & Drink Festival. An event I’m unusually tempted to summarise using science, yes science; step aside Heston Blumenthal!
So, forget about Ebbinghaus’ Forgetting Curve, and the pun, and focus on Darren’s Remembering Curve! Eddinghaus’ curve is a hypothesis, his methodology is wrought with debatable flaws, especially by modern thinking. Affective Context Theory is the new bag, emphasising vehemence in memory retention, in other words, you cannot learn anything you’ve no interest in. My curve is the physical example, it’s my belly, and once filled so too is my retention to knowledge, because I’m interested in filling my gut. I learned a lot today about different world foods, and I’m likely to remember it because Darren’s Remembering Curve is particularly full now with new foods I’ve not tried before, see? Okay, don’t base your PHD on it, as long as you get the general gist!
Awl, here’s to another year, then, cheers, and thank you to all the organisers of the festival and everyone who provided a dish to try; I’m full!
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Despite the population of Devizes throwing confetti and paint at each other in their most celebrated annual ritual, I believe I picked the right weekend to visit Swindon; deffo, or are they always ‘aving it there?!
The Wildcats whipped butt at their first league game of the season on Friday, but my Saturday was dedicated to exploring the arts, something criticised stereotypically by outsiders. I could sigh, with partial agreement, historically perhaps. Swindon caressed industrial boom, somewhere along the line forgoing its arts and culture. This is changing, and fast, the Shuffle is a skeleton key opening said transpose.
What’s not thankfully changed is Old Town, while central Swindon is unrecognisable compared to twenty years ago. Just as Swindon Paint Fest has decorated the walls with impressive street art, the Swindon Shuffle is the event pushing the town’s boundaries in locally sourced live music. There’s few annual events in Wiltshire showcasing entirely local music, I best liken the Shuffle to The Bradford Roots Festival at the Wiltshire Music Centre. Save, this is spread across the choicest pubs in Swindon rather than under one purpose-built complex.
And it is a mammoth simultaneous exhibition of musical talent, a taster of what the county offers, of which it’d be impossible to witness entirely; best I approach this diary-like, apologies to the many bands I missed. We’re talking over seventy acts spread across nine venues for this four-day beast in its eighteenth year, and it remains free, fundraising via donation buckets for Prospect Hospice.
Available for the Saturday only, my intention is to take as big a bite of it as I can, taste some known favourites and cross a number of must-sees off my ever-growing list.
Swindon Shuffle is a beautiful thing, a convention for local musicians, promoters, media types and aficionados. I stepped off the bus at The Tuppenny, in a hurry and frustrated I’d now missed Sienna Wileman and likely Chippenham’s singer-songwriter Meg, to bump into Sienna’s father Richard, big Shuffle chief Ed Dyer on the door, and luckily, Meg’s dad Paul; the latter meaning Meg was still playing and I managed to catch the last few songs of this unique and emotive rising star.
This tavern was bustling yet functioning happily, a crowd immersed in Meg’s magical words, set the stage for Americana soloist Jol Rose, up next. Something of a Swindon optimistic Dylan, he retains his concentrated narrative songs in favour of the more lighthearted ditties and banter to appease, though there was a poignant one on the Gaza conflict, but whichever his outlook, Jol is a proficient entertainer and skilled master of his craft.
Breaking familiar territory, new one for me, David Corrigan of The Astral Ponies followed, with an inspiring set of acoustic versions of his band’s songs. The dilemma of going tried and tested against treating the Shuffle as a voyage of discovery set in; solved by the next few hours whereby acts I’m making a beeline for I’m aware of but yet to see live. I tend to get over-excited about such prospects, and figured drinking cider like water might help.
Make no mistake, I could’ve cemented myself in at The Tuppenny, such is its comfy atmos, but, hot on this must-see list, Swindon’s Afro-Latin collective Zambalando are due in a coffee shop on Commercial Road called Baristocats, so I’m moving on. The café was bustling and I was early, recalling a Facebook post that the Midlife Krisis sound system was set up in the courtyard of Level III, exterior to the Shuffle program. I thought I’d temporarily breach the Shuffle and check. Bass rolling down the street like the millennium never happened, I turned one corner to find a throbbing little afternoon rave going on, with their symbolic milk-float fronted DJ booth, a wall of sound and smiley ravers giving it some.
Observing street art of city magnitude I left assured, Shuffle or no, Swindon has embraced diverse arts on a level unrivalled by its recent history. Only the thought of Zambalando dragged me away from the old skool vibes, but upon arrival back at Baristocats it seemed they’d cancelled. Nevertheless I commandeered a sofa, tea and toastie, chatting to Swindon’s premiere reggae/ska keyboardist Erin Bardwell, who’s collective Subject A played the Shuffle on Thursday. Baristocats are hip, make a damn fine toastie, and XTC’s keyboardist Barry Andrews, aka Stic Basin, was taking us on a blissful journey of ambient dub.
If I’m complimenting Swindon, may as well include some infrastructure too, for tucked behind the now commercialised Regent Circus is the steep Prospect Hill, ingeniously with a pub at both the top and bottom. This would be my resting place for the duration, the short distance from the Beehive to the Castle manageable, if uphill, to switch between multi-musician Richard Wileman & singer and saxophonist Amy Fry’s gorgeous experimental jazz-come-psychedelia at the Beehive, and Liddington Hill who’ve created their own subgenre, Celtic-grunge, and were currently giving it what’s for at The Castle. Allowing me to cross two must-sees off my list. Liddington Hill was brilliantly loud and in your face, everything I’d imagined and more, and crowds gathered to salute that.
Unlike the Beehive, I was unfamiliar with the Castle, yet felt immediately at home; it had been invaded by both ‘Talkers’ awaiting the headliner, and cheesemakers from Calne, real ones! It’s fine, off territory, no dispute, love The Real Cheesemakers’ hilarious wurzel take on heavy rock, and boy did they blast it superbly!
Only good things heard about the next band were certainly not fibs. The Belladonna Treatment is a remedy for an off-balance in indie-rock, pop and punk; all subgenres were subtly intertwined idiosyncratically, and beguilingly delivered to sardine-packed admirers, and a new fan here. Unfortunately Trunk, the penultimate act at the Castle I had to miss due to an emergency burger mandate. It’d be fifteen minutes wait at the chippy, I was content, it’s opposite the Victoria, Swindon’s stalwart music venue and one I unusually gravitate towards.
Age thing, the lineup was particularly heavy and aimed at the younger demographic at the Vic tonight, NervEndings headline, and I’m well aware of their force of nature as they spawned in Devizes, adding our quintessential blues module to their furiously yet accomplished sound. A whistlestop no longer than a burger on a grill, enough to note it was equally as packed and having it there as the Castle, Lucky Number Seven were ensuring it.
But if you know me well enough you’ll know if indie-pop virtuosos Talk In Code are there, so am I. It’s a march back to the Castle for a grand finale of eighties-tinged goodness. I never doubt, Talk in Code pulled it out of the bag, the place was thumping, the crowd were jumping, and the end, for me, to Swindon Shuffle was the icing on an exceptionally tasty cake.
The show continued Sunday, had to miss Concrete Prairie, Courting Ghosts, Cooper Creek, Leon Daye, and others, but I believe I took a fair bite out of this extravaganza, this local music expose, certainly enough to know if you only spend one weekend a year in Swindon, you’d be best advised to make it this one.
You can still donate online to Swindon Shuffle’s fund for Prospect Hospice HERE.
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Tory tears welled at County Hall this week, when Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council threw his teddies from his pram over the Government’s motion to cancel the A303 Stonehenge tunnel project, while The Stonehenge Alliance welcomed the announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves to cancel the £2.5bn scheme as a “low value, unaffordable commitment.”
Clewer whimpered, “We are extremely dismayed and disappointed at the Government’s decision to cancel the A303 Stonehenge tunnel project. These improvements are needed now to ease traffic congestion on the A303 and reduce traffic in our communities, and also ensure economic growth in Wiltshire, unlocking jobs and investment in the wider south-west region.”
The Stonehenge Alliance alongside supporter-organisations such as Ancient Sacred Landscape Network, Campaign to Protect Rural England, Friends of the Earth, Rescue, the British Archaeological Trust, and Transport Action Network, believe the road should have been binned in 2020 when it was recommended for refusal, after a six month examination, for the damage it would cause to the World Heritage Site. The Examination Report, written by five planning inspectors, who presided over a six month examination, recommended that the application be refused.
Yet Cllr Richard Clewer continued, “It has taken many years of lobbying and working closely with partners, including National Highways, to bring this major infrastructure project to Wiltshire, and so it is a huge blow to get to the stage when construction is ready to begin, only to have this taken away from us at this late hour,” despite it seems these studies and a refusal from the High Court, the Conservative government at the time simply ignored them and continued to award contracts to construction companies regardless. So when the WC leader states, “There has already been £160m spent on this project, and cancelling it now wastes that huge investment,” who’s fault is that?! If I didn’t get planning permission to build a shed in my garden but paid a bloke to carry out the work anyway, I would bear the cost for my misjudgement, surely? It’s called acting responsibly!
John Adams, chair of the Stonehenge Alliance said, “This is a vindication of all the work of so many people over so many years from supporters around the world. National Highways’ misguided project was called out for what it was: low value and unaffordable. It was also highly damaging. Now that it has been scrapped, we need to move on. As soon as the budget is there, we need to ensure, as a priority, that local traffic is better managed and rail access to the South West improved.”
Tom Holland, historian and president of the Stonehenge Alliance, expressed his enthusiasm for the cancellation. “This is wonderful news,” he said. “This entire monstrous project, a proposal to drive a gash of concrete and tarmac through our most sacred prehistoric landscape, should never have got off the drawing board. That cancelling it will also save £2.5bn is obviously an additional perk.”
The councillor proposed the ‘monstrous project to drive a gash of concrete and tarmac through our most sacred prehistoric landscape,’ would “return the Stonehenge landscape to something like its original setting.”
He’s certainly done his homework, young Dick, because it’s a lesser known fact the ancient Britons built a gurt concrete motorway tunnel underneath Stonehenge, and it even had a Little Chef. The Egyptians built a flyover over the Pyramid of Giza too, to ease 4th dynasty congestion in Cairo. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon was just a multi-storey car park decorated with a few hanging baskets, and the Mohawks made a giant plug to plug up Niagara Falls, so their canoes could cross the sea five minutes quicker!
Its original setting is impossible to recreate now, unless you’re Dr Who, and it’s as close as it ever will be, with the mounting campaign to wreck it, which the councillor is promoting and cannot see the hypocrisy in his outburst! But to further the gibberish, Clewer finished this sentence with the unbelievable, “and allow local communities greater access to the ancient stones and the surrounding World Heritage Site.” Greater access, really? I beg to differ, it’s been fine for five thousand years, now, all of a sudden, it feels like they want to hide it, unless you cross their palms with silver; typical Tory all round.
They’ve already rerouted traffic on the upper road, so you cannot access it unless you cough up £37 for a ticket, and should the tunnel have been constructed you’d never know it was there at all. The next generation of locals would be like Tess of the d’Urbervilles, despite living close they’d be oblivious to its existence.
Face it, his last paragraph was simply a smokescreen, when really the focus of his whinge was more about reducing “rat-running in our communities, to reduce journey times to the wider south-west, to boost economic growth in Wiltshire, and to unlock jobs and investment across the region.”
It may’ve eased congestion, but destruction of the environment to do so would have been certain. We risked losing our World Heritage Site, its status as such, the appeal to tourism, the capital this brings to the county, and its historical and sacred connotations, and let’s face it, for nothing more than to get Gareth and Diane from Shrewton to Andover five minutes earlier. And that’s the real truth about this vanity project, a complete disregard for our environment and the financial benefits obtained from it to small businesses relying on tourism, simply so colossal building contracts can be backhanded to Conservative donor bum chums.
There never was a thought given to the elephant in the room, that the area is littered with undiscovered sites of archaeological importance, which once discovered by digging there, potentially wrecking, would halt the process and massively increase the cost of the project, spiralling it billions over budget. It would have been a horrorshow for future generations to frown upon us and ask “what the hell were they thinking?”
The Stonehenge Alliance explains the original budget of £1.7bn is from around 2017 and is clearly out of date. In an answer to Danny Kruger MP’s Parliamentary question on the 12th March 2024, which admits that even in 2018, the construction cost was estimated to be £1.9bn with maintenance costs of £8m a year. With construction inflation being so high since then, it is likely that the combined total cost of the scheme is over £2.5bn and that’s before it runs into any difficulties tunnelling in phosphatic chalk.
Regardless of the facts, Cllr Richard Clewer concluded, “We will remain committed to this project and will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to try to bring this project back to Wiltshire.”
But who is the proverbial “We” here? The Wiltshire Council press release suggests all the councillors are behind Mr Clewer on this one. Rather I favoured to ask our shiny new MP, Brian Mathew, also on Wiltshire Council, a penny for his thoughts, not that I gave him a penny, but still he replied, “I have been against the Stonehenge Tunnel since I first heard about it in around 2009. I was the only Councillor to speak out against it in 2017 when I was first elected to Wiltshire Council.”
When Rachel Reeves outlined her proposals to Parliament, she said Labour would not go ahead with the A303 Stonehenge scheme, but she didn’t say it was cancelled. However, in the published policy paper the scheme is listed as cancelled, therefore Clewer’s claims to remain committed to a project definitely cancelled is wasting time in office and even more taxpayer’s money; they failed to fix the existing roads from defects the size of moon craters for years, let alone engineer a project as technical as this!
It surely then serves as an example of how this immature response to the results of the general election in many of our Conservatives remaining in positions of power is simply going to hinder progress, and it’s time, now the deed is done in parliament, to eradicate this Conservative ethos which values the financial gain of multinational companies over that of smaller businesses and the aesthetics of our communities, across the board, once and for all.
Much less, we suffer from hairbrained vanity building schemes such as this, destroying our heritage, wildlife and tourist attractions just for the sake of easing congestion without the need for the drastic environmental measures necessary to be sustainable. It’s time to improve public transport in Wiltshire, so Gareth and Diane can get from Shrewton to Andover by choo-choo train. Get with the program, silly boy!
If it’s been a fantastic weekend on Devizes Green with the orchestral Full-Tone Festival, further out of town scooterists, mods, skins and anyone else with a penchant for the merger of such retrospective subcultures gathered for an equally thrilling event, Devizes Scooter Rally 2024, backed by the shack of a soul boss, most turnin’, stormin’, sound o’soul….
You’ll have to excuse parts omitted and see this as an overall piece, because in trying to juggle both events there were times I was going between them, times I stopped home for my chips, and times when I generally slouched on the sofa contemplating getting my arse in gear! But what I did catch at Devizes Scooter Club’s most prestigious annual do, was off the scale brilliant; I expected no less based on their past rallies.
It might also be a smidgen inequitable on Full-Tone that I spent more time at the Rally. It’s walking distance from home, not having a scooter myself, and such is my right to satisfy what’s more my cuppa; the dirty down jollity of working class revelry! Note, then, despite eclectic tastes required to do this blog, my first music love will forever be ska and consequently reggae; it’s the offbeat, see? It’s that little jump, mek ya wanna skank up da riddim, not forgoing the heavy basslines or class brass. Unfortunately, it’s something we’re rarely blessed with here, so when it is in my neighbourhood, anything and everything else must get put on the backburner.
And moreover, when we do get ska or reggae around these backwaters, it’s not usually of the quality we’ll see today at the Rally. And there lies my reason for savouring the opportunity against an orchestral happening elsewhere in town, fantastic as it was. The epiphany came with the finale of the Saturday, when London’s Goldsteppers stepped up to the challenge and truly blew me off my little dancing feet.
Band changeovers were quicker than the queue at the bar, which is no fault of the exceptionally hard-working bar staff, rather the given after navigating winding B-roads on a hairdryer on wheels, the punters camp up, and drink, they drink a lot!
After an electric set by Southampton’s Butterfly Collective, who had already raised the level with a varied melting pot of Kinks to Happy Mondays, and finishing on a reggae classic, I arrived back in the tent to be sublimely slotted into my comfort zone by these Gold-stepping Bobby Dazzlers. The beautiful sound of ska, seemingly attentive to original ska and rock steady, an often overlooked linkage between ska and reggae despite being the most creative period in Jamaican recording history, rather than the commonplace Two-Tone cover bands.
Alton Ellis, early Wailers songs and other cherry-picked rarities were given the Goldsteppers makeover, and it was something to behold. I could say this was the best ska band I’ve seen, but I’ve seen Desmond Dekker, Jimmy Cliff et al, so I think they’ll understand and be satisfied when I say this was the perfect and best homage to that golden era of reggae I’ve witnessed for many a year.
Staying true to the original compositions and delivered with an unmatched tightness, so accomplished were Goldsteppers, their own originals didn’t sound out of place, and were welcomed by the frenzied crowd. The archetypal Pressure Drop from The Maytals, the classics came brassy and bassy, with astute attention to detail, passion and pitched with perfect banter. And while we’re talking brass is class, it should be noted the enthusiastic frontman, who introduced himself to me as Sam, unless I misheard, also blew saxophone with incredible clout; legend! Dammit, if they even, for humorous effect, ska’d up a cover of Wham’s Edge of Heaven and made it sound like Justin Hinds & The Dominoes recorded it in 1964!
But what Goldsteppers did for reggae greats, headliners on the Friday, All That Soul, did for The Motown and Stax years. I’ve seen this show before, The Scooter Club booked them for a gig some years ago, this time only furthered my conviction that there’s no better homage to sixties classic soul in the UK, currently, than All That Soul. They were divine, on vocals, timing and showmanship, creating a sensation impossible not to savour in awe. Are we on Soul Train in 1969 right now?! No, still in a field near Devizes!
You could say this would suit a function, like a wedding, and many function bands attempt classic soul covers, varying in quality; it only depends on the level of your alcohol intoxication in how enjoyable they are! But not with All That Soul; you could go stone cold sober and come up dancing, because there’s nothing commonplace about them, neither cliché; it’s a billion levels up from the best function band you could possibly book with any amount of generosity from your bank manager!
I only caught the end of the Decatonics’ set, but they sounded bloody awesome too, guess I was caught chatting to all those friendly faces on arrival. Because Devizes Scooter Rally is so communal, so hospitable it borders on one big happy family occasion.
Aside from bringing financial gain to Devizes as scooterists putt-putt off on ride-outs and to explore town, it’s an asset to our locality through being a well-organised and respected event. Our blossoming Scooter Rally is an attraction midway between your average scooter rally, which can often be no more than a local cover band and a bloke flogging hotdogs while enthusiasts chat shop, and an over commercialised large scale and renowned rally which borders festival proportions and consequently losses its edge and appeal.
So, while there’s space to grow this event, it’s perfect the way it currently is, and damn, it’s one amazingly unforgettable weekend for locals with only a passing interest, as much as it is for all the national aficionados who gathered on the site with the winks of knowledge that they’ve discovered a secret rally on top of its prime right now.
Devizes Scooter Rally is set to rev into 2025 already, set on the 25th-27th July. Same time, same place next year then? You betcha life, from me, and you really need to experience it too, with me, on the dancefloor, with your boots and braces! We got three million miles to reach the moon, So let’s start getting happy now….
Atmospherically anthemic and reinforced with that infectious rhythmic groove we’ve come to love Talk in Code for, More Than Friends is chockfull of it, and…
by Mick Brian With Sandcastles Productions marking its debut production with Charlie McGuire’s original play Glass House, the cast and crew behind this production are clearly…
Wiltshire Music announces a new season for Autumn Winter: and the first under the new leadership of Daniel Clark, Artistic Director and Sarah Robertson, Executive…
Devizes annual orchestral festival, FullTone got underway yesterday afternoon with a showcase of local talent from Devizes Music Academy, and finalised Friday night with their…
Chief organiser of the Full-Tone Festival, Jemma Brown has always been high on my list of local folk of admiration, but went a notch higher Sunday upon delivering a sly quip on stage, in retaliation to a lone keyboard warrior inanely slating the festival on Facebook, while the majority of locals, and visitors from afar, basked in the sunshine and glory of what was the ultimate, (and possibly final of this kind,) showcase of our fantastic homegrown Full-Tone Orchestra, their momentous accomplishment, and all the gorgeous gubbings which went with it!
I was sunbathing on a Muck & Dunder deckchair at the time, enjoying one of their Piña Coladas, the like only they seem to know how to create this side of the Atlantic Ocean, and a hearty chuckle impulsively launched from my cake hole. Oh my, the audacity of the ranting warrior caused a desire in me to march that silly sausage down to the breath-taking stage, allowing them to observe, even if momentarily, a sixty-piece orchestra harmoniously labouring sublimely, while a local youth sings their heart out at the most memorable, prestigious, and significant opportunity of their lives so far, to the tears of joy from their mum in the audience, overwhelmed with pride, and the smiles from those enjoying it, then ask this ranting nobody to confirm their complaint was not driven solely by selfish jealousy!
A neighbour of mine has a tendency to rev his motorbike in his garden. I cannot fathom why he needs to do this, neither appreciate the noise, but to ramble on about it on social media isn’t going to achieve anything but further verbal conflict. All I know is when you’re within the range of that stage, the divine acoustics immerse you, and even if it’s not your cuppa, you cannot deny the magnitude of the moment, just one weekend of it was all that was ever asked, the musical might of something you rarely get in Devizes, or anywhere for that matter.
Then, you turn away at your own free will, and note though it may have appeared so, you are not trapped in the Royal Albert Hall, you’re still on the familiar Green in Devizes, and deckchairs surrounds you like a day in a park, teetering with locals, spellbound and appreciating said moment. That is the magic of the Full-Tone Festival; go grab yourself a G&T or a Rowdy Cow ice cream, maybe get your face painted, return whenever you feel like it. It’s neither a sitting concert because of the freedom to come and go, nor a day in the park, because there’s a mahoosive and effective seamless programme of wonderful and varied music waving across the site; it is unique, iconic, and symbolic of everything great about Devizes.
All comes at a price, though, is another I hear plenty. Comparatively not so. Look around you, it’s over the pound mark for a Crunchie bar in a petrol station, and your average festival or a two-hour pop star’s gig will triple the price tag of Full-Tone’s three day extravaganza, if not more. You can only reasonably complain if your ears and eyes are shut.
Look! Look at that extravagant stage, wonder how many lines the technicians are juggling, watch the procession of musicians coming and going from the stage akin to the precision and order of an ant’s nest, though in pretty frocks! Consider every sidestall and those relentlessly working to serve you, the security, the first aid, the unison of everything coming together as it did, is both costly and executed with such professionalism I cannot fault it neither reason why anyone else would complain; it would be insanity to do so. Even conductor Anthony Brown waving his baton around for two solid days is enough to sympathise with any repetitive strain injury he’s likely to have developed!
Though I must say again, it was a shame it clashed with the Devizes Scooter Rally, an event also dear to my heart. In such, there were large chunks of both I missed in a desperate attempt to attend the two. I missed the Friday night, when Jemma’s Devizes Dance Academy replayed their musical Six, accompanied by the fantastic Ruby Darbyshire and Devizes indie popsters Nothing Rhymes With Orange, but console myself safe in the knowledge based on past experience, this would be a guaranteed chicken dinner.
There were so many elements I sadly missed. I know our prodigy Jess Self knocked it out of the Green with Annie’s Tomorrow, but I was made up by catching Six performers Ruby Phipps and Lisa Grime’s sublime solos during the James Bond theme section. Amidst the pro singers, these local youths held their own, and walked nervously but magnificently through it like it was butter on hot toast. There was the jazz big band on Sunday to make up for missing a Beatles tribute duo, and again, Talk in Code I know would’ve smashed it.
There’s simply too much to put every detail into words, but as an overall assessment based on what I witnessed or was gutted to be told how great what I missed was, The Full-Tone Festival again was a spectacular community event on a scale Devizes arguably hasn’t seen since the Boto-X, and the Green looked once again as full as the first paid Full-Tone Festival was three years ago. It will be a shame to see the Green fallow next year, but we look forward to the prospect of it returning in whatever different shape it’ll be.
Notwithstanding the financial gain from visitors to the town and local businesses this attracts, alone for it’s sheer capacity for not only providing a showcase for the orchestra, which will again venture out to the cities to perform at their prestigious venues, and attract the big names within the theatrical, classical and opera to grace our town, but also for showcasing upcoming local talent, Full-Tone receives no complaint from me, (the headline was just a sneaky clickbait trap, ha-ha!) Neither could I justify writing a single negative word about it. If I had to, it would be that we cannot do it bimonthly!
It was, as it has been each time, a fantastic event, and is loved by so many. Look again at dancers dancing, somehow, to the Chariots of Fire theme, kids in fairy wings, the old fellow napping in a deck chair with a bucket hat over his face…look and take heed of everyone, enjoying themselves ….my hat would come off to everyone involved, if it didn’t risk a sunburned bald patch!
Oh, go on then, everyone involved deserves a factor 50 sunblock, because you shine so bright!
See, I’m done and dusted with whinging; yep, that satirical rant column from many years ago, that I ask Jemma if she remembers, upon my request for more ammo, how she replied, rather I could highlight the positive things happening in town, and how that ended up with me meeting them at a rehearsal for a newly formed orchestra in Rowde school hall? Not that I’m blaming anyone for Devizine, I’ll take that rap(!!), more so thinking, wow, how far Full-Tone has come from that acorn, and how I’ve followed that inspirational progression.
Fantabulous and all and every synonym Microsoft Word will match it with, but what’s more to say? Please, if inclined, add your own thoughts to my waffle on the social media shares and I’ll transform them onto the bottom here. Help me create a fuller overview, tell me why you think Full-Tone Festival will be seriously missed from our event calendar next year and what you enjoyed about this one, thank you, and thank you Full-Tone and everyone who helped make this such a memorable occasion.
A feast of Salisbury musicians have recorded the single Edge of Reason, a powerful tribute to the irreplaceable Thom Belk, a champion of Salisbury’s music scene…
Devizes Food & Drink Festival launched their 2025 programme of events today. Running from Saturday 20th to the 28th September, the Box Office opens online…
With your standard festivals two-to-a-penny, some consisting of not much more than a bloke with a guitar in a pub selling undercooked and overpriced hotdogs,…
Contemplated headlining this “Clash of the Titans,” but that evokes the idea of a dramatic power struggle with fierce consequences rather than proof Devizes can…
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by Ian Diddamsimages by Sandcastle Productions A very new addition to Bath based theatre companies, Sandcastles Productions brings their self penned piece of theatre to…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Ian Diddams, Next Stage Theatre Company and Mike Stevens Florian Zeller is a contemporary French playwright and screenwriter, who received critical…
Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so! Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info, as it takes too much time to link them all in. It may also be updated as more events come to our attention, so check in later in the week too!
Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.
Marlborough Open Studios is running until 28th July.
Wednesday 24th
Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.
James Morton’s Groove Den at the Bell, Bath. Edinburgh Previews at The Rondo Theatre, Sophie Duker & Garrett Millerick.
Thursday 25th
Womad opens its gates, for some very lucky people!
Open Mic at the Crown, Aldbourne.
Free Music in the Foyer of the Neeld, Chippenham from 7:30pm with Meg, and Kane Pollastrone
Mark Thomas’s Gaffa Tapes at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Loonaloop at The Beehive, Swindon.
Edinburgh Previews at The Rondo Theatre, Bath, Chloe Petts & Katie Norris. The Peter Gill Live Rock ‘n’ Roll Big Band at Chapel Arts.
Children’s author Michael Rosen is at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Friday 26th
The Unpredictables at The Raven, Poulshot.
Kenavon Venture Music Night at Devizes Wharf. Guided Tour of the Lost Pubs of Devizes with John Griven. Devizes Scooter Rally opens for the weekend. Full Tone Festival: Six on the Green with NRWO & Ruby Darbyshire, Fulltone opens officially on Saturday.
Glamarama at The Crown, Aldbourne.
Trowbridge Festival opens. Be Like Will at The Red Admiral, Trowbridge.
The Bookshop Band at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Nin UK, Korn Again and the Spouky Kids at The Vic, Swindon. Prime Youth Theatre’s Grimm Tales at Swindon Arts Centre opens and runs until 27th July. The Ultimate Classic Rock Show at the Wyvern Theatre. KillerTones at The Moonrakers, Swindon.
Death is a Girl at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Little(ish) Women at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Dan Whitehouse – A Night Of Glass at Chapel Arts.
Heathen Apostles at the Tree House, Frome.
Flocksteady Live at The Baa, Salisbury, with Captain Accident & the Disasters headlining.
Saturday 27th
FullTone Festival continues in Devizes. Devizes Scooter Rally continues in Devizes. The Roughcut Rebels at The Three Crowns.
Trowbridge Festival continues.
Calne Bike Meet.
The Hardcore Troubadours at The Crown, Aldbourne.
The Red Bstrds, Hometown Devilry & Dee Dee at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.
Kiri Pritchard-McLean: Peacock at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Modern Evils at The Vic, Swindon.
41 Fords at The Seven Stars, Winsley. The Fortunate Sons at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Edinburgh Previews at The Rondo Theatre, Bath: Sara Barron & Jonny Pelham. Mark Thomas: Gaffa Tapes at The Rondo Theatre. Matt Joe Gow at Chapel Arts.
Heathen Apostles at the Tree House, Frome.
Bristol Comic & Gaming Con
Sunday 28th
Guided Tour: Heritage Walk of Devizes with John Griven. Red Sun at The Southgate, Devizes.
Potterne Festival
Owl Fest: Wiltshire Blues & Soul Club, Lacock.
Chippenham Morris Dancers at The Barge, HoneyStreet.
Summer Festival Brunch at Civic, Trowbridge.
Barton Street Regulators at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Simon Kempston & Jake Puntis at Schtuum in the Queen’s Head, Box.
The Dom Dilemma at the Bell, Bath.
4 of Hearts at Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon 1pm. Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
The Mayor of Salisbury’s Birthday Bash at Salisbury Market Place.
Monday 29th
Family Workshop: Victorian Portrait Photography brought to life! at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes.
Tuesday 30th
Summer African Jazz Session at Jazz Knights, Royal Oak, Swindon.
Chris Murphy & Barney Kenny at the Bell, Bath.
Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
The first Park Farm Festival happened Saturday, it was fabulouso, and in some way Mantonfest came to Devizes; conveniently for me as I had to unfortunately…
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If you’ve popped into Wiltshire Music Centre recently; for a concert, workshop, screening or even a meeting, you might have noticed changes in the foyer: recorded music, the…
Photo credit: David Leigh Dodd Pioneers of the indie-rock sound which would lead us into the nineties, Transvision Vamp lead singer Wendy James has announced a…
By Ian DiddamsImages by Luke Ashley Tame of Acadia Creative Around 2 million women are victims of violence perpetrated by men every year, that’s 3,000 offences…
Family run premier auctioneers of antiques and collector’s items, Henry Aldridge and Son announced a move into The Old Town Hall on Wine Street, Devizes; a…
By Ian DiddamsImages by Ian Diddams and Shakespeare Live Is it post watershed? Then I shall begin… The etymology of the word “Nothing” is quite… interesting……
Amidst another packed summer weekend’s schedule laid that lovable large village Pewsey’s turn to shine; always a law unto itself, things went off; if it’s good…
Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so!
Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info, as it takes too much time to link them all in. It may also be updated as more events come to our attention, so check in later in the week too!
Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August.
Marlborough Open Studios is running until 28th July.
Wednesday 17th
Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.
Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre screening Kind Hearts And Coronets. Big Jam session at the Vic, Swindon.
Fromage en Feu at the Bell, Bath
Thursday 18th
Amadeus Orchestra at Wilthsire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
National Theater Live: Present Laughter (Encore Screening) at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre. Chicago Blues Brothers at the Wyvern Theatre.
Lonely Tourist at The Tuppenny. Larkham & Hall at The Beehive. Preacher Son & Sons of Liberty at The Vic.
Back to Moo Moo at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.
Friday 19th
Event by Babois Eats the Lizard at the Dog & Fox, Bradford-on-Avon.
Avalon Comedy Network: Michael Odewale, Grace Mulvey, Sahib Singh & Luke Honnoraty at Pound Arts, Corsham.
I Know the End at Swindon Arts Centre, repeats Saturday. 4ft Fingers & Slagerij at The Vic, Swindon.
Upton Blues Festival opens.
Saturday 20th
New Moon – A Psychic and Spiritual Fayre at Devizes Corn Exchange from 11-4pm. The Roughcut Rebels at The Three Crowns. Talk in Code at The Southgate.
Market Lavington Vintage Meet Family Fun Weekend
Living Among… Reflections on Solitude and Nature: An evening of classical and folk music for violin and voice, with new work from composer Dylan Fixmer, also guest on piano and guitar at St Peter’s, Marlborough. Glamarma at the Bear. Rom 101 at The Lamb.
Reggae at the Pelican, Froxfield with Razah I-Fi.
Classic Ibiza at Bowood House
Glenn Darren & The Krewkats at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.
Cider, Reggae & Rum Festival in Trowbridge.
Ultimate Floyd – Pink Floyd Tribute Show at The Neeld, Chippenham.
The Thomas Sladden Quartet at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
Malin Lewis Trio at Pound Arts, Corsham.
SGO at Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon from 1pm. Rammied at The Vic. World Music Club at The Beehive. There’s a rally for Plastine at Faringdon Road Park. Julie Scott’s Academy Of Dance – Let Us Entertain You Again at the Wyvern Theatre.
But, Editor’s Pick of the Week is in Swindon this week, it’s My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival for Prospect House at the Old Town Bowl; Ian despatched to find out more and report back!
Carpenters Tribute – Rainy Days, Mondays & Good Old Dreams at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Frome Record Fair at the Cheese & Grain. The Guns N Roses Experience afterwards.
Sunday 21st
Fantasy Radio is at Hillworth Park, Devizes with Andrew Hurst from 2pm-5pm. Jerry Crozier-Cole Trio at The Southgate, Devizes 5pm. Apparently, there’s a Family Fun Day at Avon Road Park, Devizes; Deadlight Dance are playing but I’ve heard nothing more about it. Sunday Sounds at the Muck & Dunder, free entry.
GM Dance Academy’s Summer Showcase at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
Schtumm X-tra Presents Sarah Gillespie & Chris Montague at The Queens Head, Box.
Kirris Riviere & Delta du Bruit at the Bell, Bath.
Jol Rose & Rachel Birkin at Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon 1pm. Embrace All Festival, Swindon. Emma Doupe at The Vic. JHS Dance – Seasons Of Dance at the Wyvern Theatre.
Frome Children’s Festival at the Cheese & Grain.
Monday 22nd
Wonder Gigs: Seasons at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Kevin Dempsey at the Bell, Bath.
Later with Frome College at the Cheese & Grain.
Tuesday 23rd
Rob Lear Band at The Piggy Bank, Calne.
Karen Sharpe Quartet at Jazz Knights, Royal Oak, Swindon.
Week one of Devizes Tennis Club’s Summer Tennis Camp begins.
And that’s your lot, for now!
Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
Britpop icons Supergrass will headline Frome Festival as a fundraising event for grassroots community action group ‘People for Packsaddle’ who are fighting to save a…
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Five Have An Out-of-town Experience You can’t always get that live music experience you crave by simply staying within the walls of D-Town. Sometimes, and…
By Ian DiddamsImages by Josie Mae-Ross and Charlotte Emily Shakespeare wrote several plays that were termed in the late nineteenth century “Problem Plays”. These were…
Together in Electric Dreams…. at The Corn Exchange Fashionably late for Devizes Arts Festival, I’d like to thank Andy and Ian for informative coverage of…
Jam-packed July! If there’s always lots to do throughout the year, July especially so!
Here’s what we’ve found in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week….
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info, as it takes too much time to link them all in. It may also be updated as more events come to our attention, so check in later in the week too!
Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.
The Frome Festival is underway, and ends on 14th July. Cheltenham Music Festival also, ending on 13th July.
Marlborough Open Studios is running until 28th July.
Wednesday 10th
Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.
Three Choir Showcase Concert at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, featuring BCG Choir, PSG Choir and the Horizons Choir. Jam at the Boathouse.
A Lunchtime Recital with flautist Klio Blonz at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Cheritang at the Bell, Bath. The Dreamer Live at The Rondo Theatre.
Scott Mickelson at The Beehive, Swindon. Chocolate Theatre presents The Full Monty at Swindon Arts Centre. Infant Voice Festival at the Wyvern Theatre.
Paul Mason’s The Bob Morris Lecture at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.
2000Trees festival opens near Cheltenham.
Thursday 11th
James B Partridge Presents: School Assembly Bangers at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Fly Yeti Fly at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Erin Bardwell & Friends at The Castle.
Richard Herring’s Can I Have My Ball Back at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Friday 12th
‘Steve Davis’ and ‘Kavos Torabi’ at the Barge Inn Honeystreet.
Marlborough Festival opens and runs all weekend. Comedy Night at the Town Hall. El Toro at The Bear, Marlborough. Luke Gittins with Ash Smith at The Green Dragon.
Double Bill at Pound Arts, Corsham with Ben de la Cour & Holysseus Fly.
Black Charade & Fell Out Boy at The Vic, Swindon. Funkinsteins at The Beehive. Viggo Venn at the Wyvern Theatre.
One Chord Wonders at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon. Future Plan and Lindup Brothers at the Three Horseshoes.
Faith at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.
Peatbog Faeries at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. An Dannsa Dub at the Tree House.
Saturday 13th
Devizes Beer & Cider Festival. Humdinger at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Thomas Atlas at The Southgate, Devizes.
Josh Kumra and Mica at the Bear, Marlborough. On Remand at the Crown.
Reading Dub Club at The Barge, HoneyStreet.
Everything Changes at Melksham Assembly Hall.
Adrenaline Stompers Festival at Club Venom in Westbury.
Characters Stage School’s Annie at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Innes Sibun Trio at The Boathouse.
John Hegley: An American in Luton at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Bar Tape at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. The Spirit & Sound of Steely Dan – Nearly Dan in concert at Chapel Arts. Salt Beef Reuben & Friends at the Bell, Bath.
Hooch at Royal Oak, Bishopstone. Phantom Droid, Thrakian and Hora at The Vic, Swindon.
Miss Kel’s Academy Of Dance: Stars And Stripes at the Wyvern Theatre.
Flash Harry at the Corner House, Frome. Gary Davies Sound of the 80s at the Cheese & Grain.
And Somerset Kaya Reggae Festival at Caryford.
Sunday 14th
Editor’s Pick of the Week is Picnic in the Park at Hillworth Park, Devizes from 12-5pm; hope to see you there! Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective at The Southgate, Devizes straight afterwards.
Wiltshire Young Musicians Summer Festival from 1.30pm at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Tom Cornnell at The Boathouse. Luna Barge at the Three Horseshoes.
Jon Amor Trio at the Bell, Bath.
Richard Wileman & Amy Fry at Richard Jefferies Museum, Swindon from 1pm. Kitty Langan Studio – School’s Out at the Wyvern Theatre.
Frome Symphony at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.
The Godney Gathering in Somerset opens.
Monday 15th
B D Lenz at the Bell, Bath.
Tuesday 16th
Alex Vietch Quartet at Jazz Knights in the Royal Oak, Swindon.
Ben de la Cour at the Bell, Bath.
And that’s your lot, for now!
Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
Poulshot’s Award-winning chocolate studio Hollychocs is proud to launch a heartfelt charity campaign in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust UK, with a charming chocolate…
Events with diversity, be they ethnic, cultural, or life choices, must be welcomed, encouraged and viewed positively as assets offering variety in our local calendar…
Alas, it’s been a long week since the Devizes Arts Festival called time. It feels a little like when my Dad would take the Christmas decorations down; sure, the lava lamp and toilet roll dolly remained but somehow the rest of the house looked bare and sparse!
Another great year for the annual festival which again saw Devizes sprinkled with a variety of events and the coming, and going of talented outsiders. There’s a feedback form the committee would care for you to helpfully fill, HERE, meanwhile I will reflect on the festival as a whole, after some great reports from myself and our esteemed writers, of which you can click on the titles of to read the full review; awesome what we can do nowadays, isn’t it?!
Far more organised than previous years, at least, we drew a rota we rarely referred back to! I led our team out to battle by covering the opening Friday night’s pirate shenanigans, and topped it off with Saturday’s arrival of Lady Nade, undoubtedly my favourite. Thereafter our roving reporter of insurmountable knowledge and something apparently called basic grammar, Andy Fawthrop would pip me to the post with a non-stop barrage of reviews. He was steadfast at the venues, I was wavering, and Ian, well, Ian was a Slambovian Circus of Dreams. After a gate technical blunder it was great to also have the one and only John Winterton of the Wharf Theatre contribute his professional thoughts on one wharfside gig.
Thanks to everyone for the teamwork. If Andy won on quantity, I excuse myself by reminding people I’ve work commitments while most are tucked up in bed snoring the theme tune to CHIPS. I could argue if there was one negative piece of feedback, it would be that more events at the festival could be organised over weekends, extending the festival perhaps, but rewarding the organisers a well-earned midweek break. Yet, Devizes Arts Festival is not to blame for the extremist early hours of my real labour, so I guess this is a self-inflicted matter; if only I was a popstar instead!
The only other niggly I suspect will come up through feedback is price, it is a sign of the times I’m afraid. A mountain of work and money goes into this and any other event, something I think people take a smidgen for granted. We’ve seen the demise of events and venues alike over the last few years, and it comes down to undercutting themselves at their box office. It’s such a shame, and all we can really do is convince people what is worthy of your hard-earned cash, and what is not. Despite a massively erroneous preconception Devizes Arts Festival is akin to a Saga holiday in some form or fashion, I can assure you it is most definitely not, it is a very worthy event, and needs you younglings to support it. Ticket sales this year varied between events, some sold out unexpectedly, others which the committee assumed would be winners suffered slightly; it is not an exact science, this is why your feedback is crucial.
Don’t forget the festival also hosts many free fringe events across town during the period. These are always well attended, hence surmising a fair ticket price is always a benefit to any event. At all fringe events I pause for thought like a vicar on Radio 2, to acknowledge these free gigs is to only partially immerse yourself in Devizes Arts Festival, and you should consider if you enjoyed them, how much more amazing the paid events are, and treat yourself accordingly.
Friday 31st May the shebang pounded off the starting block in a lively punk-pirate fashion. Of Jolly Roger I said it was, “loud and sprightly unpretentious punkish tomfoolery with a pirate theme, yet, at times there was concentrated and thought-provoking narratives in their original material too. Euphoric tunes such as the most poignant Silent Mountain temporarily broke the frenzy, whereas characters like a bloke who props up the bar, conveyed this is a three sheets to the wind partying band to be taken tongue-in-cheek, but, dressed as pirates kinda gave that game away!” among other things. It was a fiery marine-themed start to the landlocked festival.
Yet I was holding out all expectations for Saturday with Lady Nade, and it did not disappoint. It was my personal favourite and what a way to begin June. I deemed it mesmerising, hailing it, “a breath-taking performance, only Nina Simone between Simon & Garfunkel could’ve equalised.”
The first Sunday there was a festival walk; none of our writers seemed to take the walks up; maybe I should buy them some stout boots, Thermos, and pack them a cheese & pickle sandwich?! Neither Adam Alexander’s Seed Detective that day, nor Eddy Allen’s Solo Loop Show get coverage from us, for which I apologise. But Andy clocked in on Monday, reviewing Dr. Phil Hammond’s ‘How to Fix the NHS.’ which he called “a cracking night’s entertainment – informative, interesting, and absolutely hilarious.” Personally, and without getting too political, I had my own interpretation for a start to fixing the NHS, and that’s to stop voting in self-serving thieving clowns.
But, I digress, because once Andy gets in gear there’s no stopping him. Tuesday he covered its first classical offering The Edward Cross Quintet, a Wiltshire based multi‐instrumentalist with a background in composition and production, “overall,” Andy stated, it was “technically enjoyable, but emotionally not very engaging.” Well, I do ask our reviewers to provide an honest opinion, even if I’m a suck-up!
Liz Grand’s Mrs Churchill we missed on Tuesday, Mike Dilger’s One Thousand Shades of Green as well. Unfortunately we can’t be everywhere, but we try.
Likely the most interesting reviews was from the Wednesday of the first week when baffling geneticist, author and broadcaster Adam Rutherford came to town. Here’s where Andy shines, as it would have been too intellectual for me to cast such a detailed review on. “Informative and absolutely fascinating,” Andy called it. “Adam is no comedian, but he does have a light touch, and just like on the radio, he was able to bring science very much to life, to engage his audience, and to leave everyone a little richer in understanding.”
Hollie McNish’s Lobster Tour sold out, but we didn’t manage to catch this one either. Andy covered probably the widest known name, comedian Lucy Porter on Thursday. I really wanted to do this one, but hey I think Andy deserved a treat. “It was for the most part, very clean and straight-forward stuff. There was nothing that could be considered “edgy”, there was nothing political, and there was (amazingly) no swearing,” said Andy of it; boring!! “As such, it probably kept most of the audience in their comfort zone for most of the time, but it was no less hilarious for all of that.”
Jo Carley and the Old Dry Skulls was missed on the Friday, I did put my gumboots back on for The Cable Street Collective on the Saturday. This was awesome. “From the off I’m reminded of the marabi sound of Hugh Masekela,” I suggested, “with the upfront brass of trumpet and saxophone. Yet you couldn’t pigeonhole this with a thousand words, it’s wholly unique. Female fronted by an energetic yogi, she somersaults the high stage projecting a mid-tone vocal range with unrivalled passion, encouraging her audience to follow the leader,” and they did. Cable Street had the Exchange up dancing.
The end of the first week saw another Festival Walk and a free fringe event in the trusty Three Crowns, Rumour, the latter I did manage! “Americana trio Rumour from the Black Country, pitched up in the yard with a breezy underlying familiarity to their sound. As the name suggests, covers were Fleetwood Mac top-heavy but delivered beautifully amidst a few other classics and some blended original material. Couldn’t fault them if I tried.” Annie Parker Trio was also a fringe event, but I went home for tea and bed.
Midweek marvel, Andy was back on the scene Monday 10th June, with classical pianist Ida Pellicciolo. “The whole performance was both intense and mesmerising, played and presented by a world-class pianist who was clearly absolutely dedicated to her work, and completely on top of her game. Entirely justifiably there was sustained applause at the end from a very appreciative audience, provoking not one, but two, short encores, the latter of which was an “impromptu” by the more modern Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865 – 1957).”
Again on Tuesday, Andy was on it. Belinda Kirk’s The Life-Changing Power of Adventure this time, which although “much against my will,” Andy said “I was actually on the edge of my seat listening to this stuff. And I wasn’t alone either – the rest of the packed audience seemed pretty enraptured too. She’s an enthusiastic, energetic and very articulate speaker.” So, wellbeing tips, ask Andy, I’d only recommend a sausage sandwich.
Due to a misunderstanding, when Ian Diddams arrived on the scene to cover Discovering Antarctica : Heroic tales of Shackleton, Crean and Scott at the Wharf Theatre it wasn’t to be, and so John Winterton stepped in his shoes. “An evening well spent and testament to the hard work obviously put into the research put into the script and the characterisation of Tom, by Aidan.” Kate Webb and Jon Stock’s The Darker Side of Wiltshire we missed.
“Martin Simpson is, in the contemporary folk world at least, the equivalent of Royalty, or a National Treasure,” Andy said, when he came to Devizes on Wednesday, and our man on the scene summed it, in a word, as a “masterclass.”
Andy gave us his opinion on A Lunchtime Amuse-Bouche, withDuo Tutti on Thursday, and The Sound of Blue Note too, which he hailed “a bunch of guys who were clearly very comfortable with their material, with their arrangements, and with playing in each other’s company. They sounded absolutely great, tight when they needed to be, but with that wonderful ability to fall back and give space to the many solos and improvisations,” and requested more jazz for Devizes.
Finally they thought better of it and let Ian in! The Slambovian Circus of Dreams on Friday was something I really should have attended judging by the look of it alone. “Hillbilly Pink Floyd” Ian called it, but expanded “touches on some aspects of their music, but it’s a far wider demographic than simply that. Certainly, their show at the Corn Exchange last night included elements that certainly sounded very Pink Floyd, but psychedelia, prog, Dylan, Seeger, Tull, Led Zep all played their part weaving into and out of their songs.”
The Slambovian Circus of Dreams @ Devizes Arts Festival 2024
No one was tempted by Huw Williams’ Organ Recital at St John’s Church, or the The Poetry Slam at the Wharf which polished off the festivities. Saturday night’s hypnotist Matt Hale was unfortunately cancelled, to which remained a marvellous afternoon in the British Lion with skiffle band The Junco Shakers. I was content, it was one of those fringe events which simply worked.
Overall, it’s been a great year for Devizes Arts Festival, with some world class acts and much enjoyment was had by all. Though as far as I know, Devizes has never had a hypnotist, and for all its uniqueness I’d have thought this gig would be a sell-out. It is unfortunate, due to low ticket sales it was pulled. It proves perhaps an error in judgement, or could imply more advertising would have helped, I really don’t know; I was looking forward to it. Again, all I can say is we need to support arts in town, and Devizes Arts Festival is the king of this. We look forward to another year of which I urge to get onboard for; the thought of losing this gem on our calendar as we’ve lost others would be too much to bear.
Thanks to our wonderful team for their valid input, especially our part of the furniture, Andy Fawthrop, who summed it up thus, “Another excellent festival in my opinion – well organised and publicised. The range and variety of events, and the many different venues, together with the Free Fringe, made this another good year. Thanks all those involved for all the hard work you put in to achieve this. Hats off!”
It’s nice to hear when our features attract attention. Salisbury’s Radio Odstock picked up on our interview with Devizes band Burn the Midnight Oil and…
In thanking everyone who supported this year’s Wiltshire Music Awards, Eddie Prestidge of Stone Circle Music Events revealed his intentions of continuing with the awards…
Featured Image: Lillie Eiger Frome Festival is launching its ‘25 for 25’ fundraising campaign with a very special concert featuring three locally based acts: Tom Moth – best known…
I’ve got some gorgeous vocal harmonies currently floating into my ears, as The Lost Trades release their first single since the replacement of Tamsin Quin…
Rolling out a Barrelhouse of fun, you can have blues on the run, tomorrow (7th November) when Marlborough’s finest groovy vintage blues virtuosos Barrelhouse release…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Ben Swann and Ian Diddams Self-appointed “Morose” Mark Harrison was once again on totally top form at Komedia last Sunday entertaining…
Wiltshire Council confirmed Blue Badge holders can park freely in council-operated car parks again, following a vote at the Full Council meeting on Tuesday 21…
Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a nice party umbrella!
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated, so check in later in the week.
Ongoing: A Wiltshire Thatcher: A Photographic Journey Through Victorian Wessex runs at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, until the end of August; review here.
Devizes Arts Festival got off to a great start, it continues through the week, individual events are listed as normal below.
Wednesday 5th
Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes. Mike Dilger – One Thousand Shades of Green and An Evening with Adam Rutherford, both at Devizes Arts Festival.
Ignas Maknickas at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
Big Monthly Jam at The Vic, Swindon.
Dot, the Faun and the Elfin Child at Rondo Theatre, Bath. SKANKt at the Bell.
Thursday 6th
80th anniversary of D-Day, there will be lighting of beacons across the county. One on Marlborough Common, another one Roundway Hill Devizes.
Rum & Records at the Muck & Dundar, Devizes. Hollie McNish – The Lobster Tour and Lucy Porter at Devizes Arts Festival. Fantasy Radio will be at the Pelican for a live lounge, featuring Andrew Hurst.
Death is a Girl, Ritual Divide & The Belladonna Treatment at the Vic, Swindon. Splat The Rat at The Tuppenny.
Friday 7th
RNLI Lifeboats Event, Polperro Fishermen’s Choir at The Assembly Rooms, Devizes Town Hall. Jo Carley and the Old Dry Skulls at Devizes Arts Festival.
Open Mic at The Barge on HoneyStreet.
Textiles and Stitch around Marlborough are in Lockeridge, see poster below.
CarmenCo: A Pocket Opera at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Ant Trouble at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Rotten Aces at the Queen’s Tap, Swindon. Bring me the Horizon Party at the Vic.
Meltdown by Tom Hardman (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath. The Collected Grimms Tales by Tim Supple and Carol Ann Duffy (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath. Let’s Unpack That at the Rondo Theatre.
Tangled Roots Folk Festival, Radford Farm, Somerset.
Skinny Lister at The Tree House, Frome. The Buzzcocks at the Cheese & Grain. Not Fragile at The Sun.
Saturday 8th
Cable Street Collective at Devizes Arts Festival, Corn Exchange 8pm. The Unpredictables at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Tom Davies & The Bluebirds at The Southgate. Braeside Summer Extravaganza – Devizes, free entry, for fun activities, delicious food, live music, artisan market and more.
The Monkey Dolls at The Lamb, Marlborough. RNLI Concert at St Peter’s Church.
Parker, Youngest of 3 and Butane Skies at the Pump in Trowbridge. Don’t forget, Youngest of 3 drummer Flo is also a regular contributor to Devizine, reporting on the youth scene, so please show them some support if you can! Sounds of Seattle at the Civic.
Bradford-on-Avon Food & Drink Festival. Fist Full of Rage at The Three Horseshoes.
Magic & Marvels at Swindon Arts Centre. Rockabilly Rumble at The Queen’s Tap, Swindon.
Masa at The Tuppenny. The Chaos Brothers at The Vic.
Catherine Bohart’s Again, With Feelings, at Rondo Theatre, Bath.
Little Pickles Market followed by Paul Jones & Dave Kelly at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Sunday 9th
Lions on the Green at Devizes Green. Tamsin Quinn & Vince Bell at The Southgate, from 5pm. Devizes Arts Festival Walk : Sarsens, Soldiers and Sawpits, and two free fringe events, Rumour at the Three Crowns at 2pm, and Annie Parker Trio at St John’s Church at 7pm.
Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.
Matt Bragg & Seb Cooper at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Destination: Old Hag by Bridget Hardy, Penny Rossano and Samantha Houston (Bath Fringe Festival 2024) at The Mission, Bath. The Saint Melonians at the Bell, Bath.
Monday 10th
Ida Pelliccioli at Devizes Arts Festival.
Rock The Tots: Jungle at Pound Arts, Corsham.
The University of Bath Minerva Lecture Series at The Mission, Bath. Scott Lavene at the Bell, Bath (we love Scott here at Devizine, go see this, and if you do, please write back to tell us about it.)
Tuesday 11th
Devizes Arts Festival: Belinda Kirk and The Life-Changing Power of Adventure. And Discovering Antarctica : Heroic tales of Shackleton, Crean and Scott ~ Play on Words Theatre.
Peter Jones & Tom Berge Trio for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.
And that’s all we’ve got for now; fill your boots! Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.
Do check ahead with our every-changing events diary. Isn’t it high time you snapped up some tickets for the Devizes Arts Festival?
Important note: events which come to our attention from now on, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
I want Devizine to be primarily about arts and entertainment, but I’m often pathetically persuaded by bickering political factions to pass opinion on local politics…
The first full album by Wiltshire’s finest purveyors of psychedelic indie shenanigans, Clock Radio, was knocked out to an unsuspecting world last week. It’s called…
Bradford-on-Avon Town Council’s annual festival, aptly titled The Bradford on Avon Live Music Festival is back this weekend, championing local talent with an eclectic line-up…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Chris Watkins Performing Sondheim isn’t the simplest of tasks. Or, rather, singing Sondheim isn’t the simplest of tasks. With his dissonant…
The phenomenally talented Ruby Darbyshire is performing at Silverwood School in Rowde on 27th June. Ruby has kindly offered to support Silverwood School’s open evening…..…
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Devizes Arts Festival has already got off to a storming start over this last weekend, with performances on Friday from Jolly Roger, Saturday from Lady Nade, and on Sunday from Adam Alexander and Eddy Allen. Some of these we’ve already reviewed here.
So now it’s rolled round to Monday, and it’s time to head out into the first mid-week dates, with a whole variety of stuff to choose from. Last night, and first up of the spoken word big hitters, it was the turn of Dr. Phil Hammond at The Corn Exchange.
I wasn’t sure if was a comment on the current difficulty of getting a GP appointment, but Dr. Phil’s waiting room was pretty full, with people eagerly awaiting a consultation with the famous doctor.
Phil is an NHS doctor, journalist, broadcaster, speaker, campaigner and comedian. He currently works at the Bath RUH in a specialist NHS team for young people with long Covid. Born in the NHS (a slogan emblazoned on his t-shirt, and frequently referenced throughput the set), and brought up in Australia (the Ozzie twang was unmistakeable), he worked in general practice for over twenty years, and has also worked in sexual health. A familiar voice on BBC Radio 4, he has also presented five series of “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” on BBC2, encouraging patients to be more involved, assertive and questioning. And finally (a major feather in his cap in my book) he’s also Private Eye’s medical correspondent, where he broke the story of the Bristol heart scandal in 1992.
Phil’s “surgery” consisted of two sets – “How To Fix The NHS”’ and “The Ins And Outs Of Pleasure”.
The first half consisted of both commentary on the NHS, and Dr. Phil’s ideas on how it might be improved. Using both his own and patient-generated ideas, the best of which was “force all MPs and Health Service professionals receive all their treatment in the worst-performing hospitals”, and plenty of enthusiastic audience participation, he addressed current issues in a positive light. His key messages were “prevention rather than cure” (more investment needed upstream) and our individual responsibility for personal health. His model, and mnemonic for the night was (of all things) CLANGERS, which provides daily prompts on healthy behaviour. I might be making it sound a little dry, but it was very far from it. He often had the audience in stitches (is this allowed? – Ed. Ed’s note; any passing tumbleweeds are your own responsibility, Andy!), with his “hierarchy of cricketing euphemisms” for death (“taken the short walk to the pavilion”), and a gob-smacking tale of “euthanasia by cling-film”.
The delivery was fast, yet calm, with a take-no-prisoners attitude. He was self-deprecating, often admitting to his own mistakes (predicting that Covid would cause less deaths than people falling down the stairs) and failures (pronouncing a patient to be dead, who subsequently turned out to be very much alive). There were plenty of anecdotes from his times as a trainee and a junior whilst at Medical School, quite enough to shock the bejesus out of the audience.
If anything, the second half was even better. Having posted a trigger warning that it would be quite a bit more graphic and near the bone, it did not disappoint. “The Ins and Outs of Pleasure” did what it said on the tin, and addressed issues of sex, orgasms, masturbation and self-pleasuring. The language was fruity and devoid of euphemism, and soon had the audience squirming with embarrassed nervous laughter. Being a consummate professional performer, the doctor correctly “read the room” and sensing that he was perhaps pushing a Monday night audience in D-Town a little too far, very subtly applied the brakes to some of the tougher stuff. Side-stepping his material via some more personal history, we were soon transitioned into the slightly safer territory of “consensual cannibalism”, the value of having a dog for good mental self-pleasuring, and the joy of “fuck-it Fridays”. But there was still plenty of time on the side for useful medical advice on the use of cock-rings (get the ones with handles), and things not to put into human orifices.
The general prescription issued last night was for taking control of, and responsibility for, your own mental and physical health. And my personal takeaway arrived almost at the end of the set– “laughter is the best medicine – unless you have syphilis, in which case penicillin is a better bet”. Priceless.
A cracking night’s entertainment – informative, interesting, and absolutely hilarious. Another great choice by DAF to bring such performing talent to our town.
Adam Woodhouse, Rory Coleman-Smith, Jo Deacon and Matt Hughes, aka Thieves, the wonderful local folk vocal harmony quartet of uplifting bluegrass into country-blues has…
This summer David is returning with a brand-new show “History’s Missing Chapters”, a show made to uncover why, throughout history, some people and events…
From the 5th to the 14th July 2024, Frome Festival plans to up the game of this wonderful and lively town with a bumper programme for all…..
In over sixty-one venues across Frome and surrounding villages, Frome Festival is gearing up for its biggest ever programme, with 250 events taking place over 10 days. This year’s theme celebrates 60 years of Roald Dahl’s ‘Charlie & the Chocolate Factory’, featuring artwork by illustrator Sholto Walker depicting Willy Wonka striding down the streets of Frome. To celebrate this theme, five Golden Tickets will be hidden at various Festival events with winners receiving a scrumdiddlyumptious spending spree at Frome’s local chocolatier and café, Choc et al.
The community arts festival has been a popular fixture in the town since 2001 and aims to offer something for everyone, young and old, including different types of music, theatre, comedy, spoken word, art, dance, film, workshops, children’s events, and food or drink experiences. Expect a dash of Frome’s signature quirkiness!
Children can enjoy bouldering workshops, comic art masterclasses, science exploration of pondlife, theatre productions, a Willy Wonka Rave, outdoor shows and so much more.
And Frome Festival is teaming up with the popular Frome Independent Market on Sunday 7th July, taking over their entertainment stages with music, street theatre, and dance.
Sir Willard White
Headliners for 2024 include internationally acclaimed bass-baritone, Sir Willard White, Jenny Eclair, Richard Herring, Paul Mason, Old Time Sailors, Swinging at the Cotton Club, Alberta Cross, Raghu Dixit, Peatbog Faeries. Alongside one of Frome’s favourite free events, the Festival Food Feast, returning for a celebration of amazing international street food, live music and entertainment. Sponsored by local Frome company Lilley’s Cider.
Other highlights include hilarious stand-up comic Jenny Eclair at the Merlin Theatre, the first woman to win the coveted Perrier Award at Edinburgh Festival in 1995 and hasn’t stopped banging on about it since. India’s biggest cultural & musical export, Raghu Dixit is returning to the Cheese & Grain for the Frome Festival after his triumphant debut last year.
Jenny Eclair
The spectacular Swinging at the Cotton Club is a visual and musical feast paying homage to legends such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie with breathtaking dance routines. In the atmospheric setting of Holy Trinity Church, renowned organ virtuoso David Bednall will provide an improvised soundtrack to the classic 1922 horror movie, Nosferatu.
There’s raucous Old Time Sailors, former economics editor of Newsnight and Channel 4 and a regular Guardian contributor, Paul Mason presenting this year’s Bob Morris Lecture, a keynote speech that is an annual highlight of the Festival programme. Legendary stand-up comic Richard Herring presents his brand-new tour show where he talks bollocks about his recent experience with testicular cancer, at the Cheese & Grain, and Scottish trailblazers Peatbog Faeries also appear at the big Cheese, with a glorious mixture of traditional sounds and dance-floor grooves creating a hypnotic sound that no-one can resist dancing to.
BROCHURES detailing all events are available to pick up from the Cheese & Grain, local libraries, information points and many other locations across Frome and the surrounding area. An online version of the brochure is available here.
If we’ve had a keen eye on Swindon’s Sienna Wileman’s natural progression as an upcoming singer-songwriter since being introduced to her self-penned songs via her…
One of Salisbury’s most celebrated acoustic folk-rock singer-songwriters Lucas Hardy teams up with the Wiltshire city’s upcoming talent who’s name is on everyone’s lips, Rosie…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Chris Watkins Media One could argue that Anne Frank is possibly the most well-known civilian of the WW2 years, and certainly of…
Trowbridge singer-songwriter and one third of The Lost Trades, Phil Cooper has actually been doing more than playing solitaire, he’s released a new solo album…
An effervescent musical, full of promising young talent Written by: Melissa Loveday Images by: Gail Foster After the success of SIX last year, Devizes Music…
Spring has sprung! There were two snails on my milk-float this morning, opening “doing it,” without shame; absolute filth! …. I should have filmed it (in a jealous rage!) there might be a gap in the market for mollusc porn! Birds, bees, now snails, they’re all getting some!
Okay, let’s get you out and about, and you never know your luck, you too can be like those snails! Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week…..
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.
Ongoing: Devizes RAF Squadron still have their Easter Egg Hunt running across Devizes, until 14th April; I’d have eaten the lot by now!
And then There Were None runs at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes until Saturday; review HERE.
Wednesday 10th
Crafty Kids at Hillworth Park, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at The Southgate. White Horse Opera’s La Boheme at Lavington School opens and runs up to Saturday.
Runny Snotts Open Mic at the Three Crowns, Chippenham.
Dom Martin Solo Tour with special guest: Demi Marriner, at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Easter Panto, Beauty And The Beast at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Pop Kids Mini Rave at the Vic, with a Big Jam Session in the evening.
Thursday 11th
PSG Choir taster session at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.
Boo Hewerdine plus support: Vlado Nosal at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Tommy Hale & the Magnificent Bastards at the Beehive, Swindon. Lost Revellers at The Tuppenny. Tanwood Youth Theatre’s Frozen Jr. opens at Swindon Arts Centre, runs until Sunday. An Evening Of Burlesque at The Wyvern Theatre.
Friday 12th
Karaoke Night with Karl Maggs at the Exchange, Devizes.
Open Mics at The Barge on HoneyStreet, and The Parade Cinema, Marlborough.
Americana Beer Festival at The Bell, Bowden Hill, Lacock.
Sound of the Sirens at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Bluebeard in support.
This Carpenters Masquerade at Melksham Assembly Hall.
West of England Youth Orchestra Relaxed Family Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Heavy For the Tropics at The Three Horseshoes.
Jon Amor Trio at The Ram, Bath. Emma Stevens Band’s “Bloom” Tour plus support from BLÁNID at Chapel Arts.
Barrelhouse at The New Inn, Swindon. Motorheadache at the Vic. Plucking Different at the Beehive. 12 Bars Later at The Village Inn, Shaw. Sir Bradley Wiggins at The Wyvern Theatre.
The Scribes’ Boombox at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.
Saturday 13th
Museum Explorers Club – Animals in the Museum at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Museum Explorers club is for 5-7 year olds and is an introduction to popular topics such as the Romans and Ancient Egyptians. The Great British Yarn Crawl at Pins & Needles on Snuff Street, Devizes.
Humdinger at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Cooper’s Creek at The Southgate. Dreamettes at Devizes Conservative Club. And Stevie MC is in the mix at the Exchange.
But, Editor’s Pick of the Week is The Marley Experience at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. I’ve been looking forward to this since CrownFest last summer; hope to see you there…jammin’ ‘til the jam is done!
Meatloud at Melksham Assembly Hall. The Corsairs at The Grapes. The Singing Herdsman at The Pilot.
The Chaos Brothers at The Talbot, Calne.
The Monkey Dolls at the Lamb, Marlborough.
The Exact Opposite at the Pump, Trowbridge.
The Idle Silence, Cult Python, & Otterman at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Fire & Rain & American Pie at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Stockers Street Food Festival at The Hop, Swindon. The Daybreakers at the Vic.
The Good Old Fashioned Lover Boys at Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland.
The JB Conspiracy at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.
Top Secret – The Magic of Science at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Mother Vulture at The Tree House.
Sunday 14th
CSF Wrestling at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. Jon Amor Trio Special with guest Stevie Watts at The Southgate.
Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.
Deadlight Dance’s The Wiltshire Gothic Album Launch at The Blue Boar, Aldbourne. Album reviewed HERE.
Murder Trial Tonight at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
Barney & Kelly at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Monday 15th
Macbeth at Swindon Arts Centre, also runs on Tuesday.
Tuesday 16th
The Lost Trades at The Piggybank, Calne.
Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe event for Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon, A celebration of Herbie Hancock, with Tom Berge.
Poetika at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.
And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some technical gubbings to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.
Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
And, while we’re planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a look at the coming month HERE.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
A photo is circulating on X of Calne’s Reform UK candidate Violette Simpson, which for some reason doesn’t appear on her election campaign….I wonder why?…
Big congratulations to Devizes DJ Greg Spencer this week, the creator of Palooza house nights at The Exchange nightclub, for he made the prestigious bill…
Melksham & Devizes Conservatives released a statement on the 7th April explaining an internal audit revealed one of their candidates was “not qualified by residence…
Last month we were pleased to announce our involvement with the new Wiltshire Music Awards in conjunction with Wiltshire Events UK, details of which are…
And there was me thinking nothing good comes out of a Monday! Today local bistro Soupchick, popular in the Devizes’ Shambles opened their second branch,…
Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats!
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.…
Ongoing: The Mousetrap at the Wyvern, Swindon runs until Saturday 23rd.
Wednesday 20th
Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.
Daniel Kemish at Chapel Arts, Bath. Tuto Tribe atThe Bell, Bath.
Thursday 21st
Iona Lane and Ella Clayton at the Pump, Trowbridge.
Jim Blair at The Beehive, Swindon. Somerset Velvet & Hatty Taylor at The Tuppenny.
Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre.
Adam’s Apple Jazz Trio at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Sylvertones at the Old Bell, Warminster.
Desperados (Eagles tribute) at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Friday 22nd
Devizes Ghost Walk with John Girvan. Eddie Martin Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. DJ Stevie MC at the Exchange.
Open Mic at The Barge, HoneyStreet
Damm! at The Bear, Marlborough
Band of Others at The Grapes, Melksham.
Take The Stage at the Neeld, Chippenham.
Eddie Gripper Trio at the Civic, Trowbridge. Wiltshire Rural Music Fundraiser at Emmanuals Yard.
Pussycat & The Dirty at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Furlined at The Beehive, Swindon. Moving Pictures at The Vic.
Ezio at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Rhythm Presents Funkagenda DJs at 23 Bath Street, Frome.
Saturday 23rd
Easter Egg Hunt at All Cannings. Jumble Sale at St Andrew’s Church, Devizes: 10-11am. John Rutter’s Requiem at St Andrew’s Church. Eddie Holgate Trio at the Southgate, Devizes.
Spring Concert at St Mary’s Church, Marlborough. Swipe Right at The Bear, Marlborough.
Peaky Blinders at The Pilot, Melksham. Rockin’ The Joint at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.
The Worried Men at The Talbot, Calne.
Radiation Sickness at The Consti Club, Chippenham. Counterfeit Quo, Status Quo Tribute Band at the Neeld.
Kevin Brown’s Shackdusters at the Pump, Trowbridge.
Moments of Pleasure; the Music of Kate Bush at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
M&W and Underbliss at The Three Horseshoes.
Soul’d Out at Tucker’s Graveyard, Faulkland.
Solarbird at the Duck, Laverstock. Rob Clamp at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.
Rachael Sage at Chapel Arts, Bath. Paul Foot’s Dissolve at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.
A World Music Club at The Beehive, Swindon. Biffy McClyro at The Vic, Swindon.
Lottery Winners at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Revelation Roots at the Tree House.
Sunday 24th
Sunflower Easter Fair at Devizes Corn Exchange: 11-4pm.
Josh Pugh’s Existin’ La Vida Loca at Swindon Arts Centre. Jonathan Pie at the Wyvern, Swindon.
Junkyard Dogs at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
The F.O.S. Brothers at The Bell, Bath.
Stevie Wonder tribute The Wonder of Stevie at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Monday 25th
The Great Big Dance Off at the Wyvern, Swindon.
Kevin Figes’ Wallpaper Music at The Bell, Bath.
Tuesday 26th
Spring Wreath Making at Hillworth Park, Devizes. And, it must be the first time Editor’s Pick of Week is on a Tuesday! The James Oliver Band play Devizes Conservative Club.
Jazz Knight’s Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe Event at The Royal Oak, Swindon, is a celebration of Grant Green with Chris Cobbson. How Sweet It Is at Swindon Arts Centre.
Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit at the Wyvern.
Sue Harding at The Bell, Bath.
And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.
Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
And planning ahead, don’t forget Devizes Musical Theatre brings us Sister Act at Dauntsey’s School from Wednesday 27th until Saturday 30th March. Next week also sees Vic-Fest at the Vic in Swindon, with a huge line-up, People Like Us are at The Three Crowns, Devizes on Friday, while Nothing Rhymes with Orange headline the Pump in Trowbridge, The Lost Trades are there on Saturday. General Levy at Cheese & Grain Friday, The Wurzels on Saturday!
Nearly into April, where I would recommend Andrew Hurst at St Nicholas Church in Bromham Thursday 4th, Brian Poole at Long Street Blues Club Friday 5th, Mick Jogger at Seend Community Hall on Saturday 6th and the John Hackett Band at the Pump, or Cara Dillon at Wiltshire Music Centre.
Following week, you can find And Then There Were None opening at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes Monday 8th, and the Marley Experience on 13th April at Devizes Corn Exchange; unmissable.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
Stuffed my dinner, scanned the brief, headlonged out the door, forgot about the road diversion into the Market Place, made a u-turn, arrived at Wiltshire…
It was a fantastically successful opening night for Devizes Musical Theatre at Dauntsey’s School for their latest show, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and I…
Renowned Devizes auctioneers and valuers, Henry Aldridge and Son announced today they are relocating their auction rooms to The Old Emporium, a Grade II listed…
by Ian Diddamsimages by Ann Ellison. What can possibly be better than watching a performance of “Blood Brothers” by Willy Russell? Watching TWO performances of…
Hey, teacher! Leave those sausage rolls alone. Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, there be lots more than your average sausage roll to get through, yer filthy muckers…..
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Nothing ongoing on our list, so, let’s jump right into the week….
Wednesday 21st
Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.
Carducci Quartet at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.
Jessica Fostekew’s Mettle at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Amadou Diagne & Group Yakar at The Bell, Bath.
Lunchtime Recital at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
Thursday 22nd
Open Mic at the Crown, Bishop’s Cannings.
Devizes Film Club at the Wharf Theatre, screening Official Competition.
Runny Snot’s Acoustic Sessions at the Neeld, Chippenham.
Fin Taylor at Swindon Arts Centre. Adam Rowe at the Wyvern Theatre. Stone Soup, Modern Evils and Phantom Droid at The Vic. Larkham & Hall at the Beehive. Oxbowlake and Jess Marie at The Tuppenny.
Avalon Comedy Network’s Pierre Novellie, Tessa Coates, Huge Davies and Jake Baker at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Paul Cowley at Chapel Arts, Bath. Cindy Stratton Band Everything Changes album launch at the Rondo Theatre.
Rob Newman at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Friday 23rd
Devizes Ghost Walk: with John Girvan. White Horse Opera’s Top of the Ops at St Joseph’s School.
Mark Morriss plays the Pump in Trowbridge with Sound Affects in support. Sax Man ‘Shilts’ at the Civic.’
Drink and Draw at 31.Co.Work in Chippenham, opening the fringe February events across the town this weekend. Instant Wit – A quickfire comedy event at The Constitutional Club. Heat 2 of Take the Stage at the Neeld Hall.
That’ll Be The Day at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. The Retro Rock Show at Swindon Arts Centre. The Hamsters from Hell and the Vooz at The Vic. Jay Styles is Michael Jackson at The New Inn.
Shoun Shoun & Venice Treacle at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.
Nanny Folio Theatre and The Amazing Bubble Man at Pound Arts, Corsham.
CharmType at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.
Rock the Tots Family show at Rondo Theatre, Bath. The Jake Leg Jug Band at Chapel Arts.
Eddie & The Hot Rods at The Tree House in Frome. Absolute Bowie – Greatest Hits at The Cheese & Grain.
Saturday 24th
Seed Swap at St Andrew’s, Devizes. Editor’s Pick of Week: Deadlight Dance arrives in Devizes with an instore at Vinyl Realm from 11am, and they play The Southgate in the evening. The Wharf Theatre has The Lonnie Donegan Story. Kennet Gateway Club has the Rockin’ Bandits at Devizes Conservative Club.
@59 at The Lamb, Marlborough.
Wet Franc at The Pilot, Melksham. The Fabulous ’59 Ford at Melksham Rock n Roll Club
Toodles and the Hectic Pity, Charlie Gillman and Luke De-Sciscio at the Pump, Trowbridge. Adult Panto Alice in Wonderland at the Civic.
The REAL nursery rhymes and songs – toddler to KS1 at Wiltshire Swindon History Centre, Chippenham. Clare’s Circus at King Alfred Hall. Hidden Canvases – ‘Street Art and the City’ A talk by Doug Gillen at the Platinum Hall. Let’s build LEGO Chippenham! at Wiltshire Swindon History Centre, Chippenham. Rock the Tots: Baby Boogie atThe King Alfred Hall. Toddler Tango at The King Alfred Hall.
Steppin Thru’ Time – Mary Lou Revue at The Yelde Hall, Chippenham. The Rosellys at Rivo Lounge. Daft Laffs – A night of comedy greats at The King Alfred Hall. The Old Road Tavern has a Mega Fringe fest, see poster below.
Louise Farrenc plays Symphony number 3 at Corsham Town Hall. Marty’s Fake Family at The Royal Oak. Shake It Up Theatre presents The Improvised Shakespeare Show at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Holy Popes, Shin Splintz & Big Byrd at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Adriano Adewale’s Catapluf’s Musical Journey at Wiltshire Music Centre.
Molly’s Chamber at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.
Science Museum: The Live Stage Show at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Straighten Out at The Vic. World Music Club at the Beehive. Danny & The Randoms at The Queen’s Tap.
Glamarama at The Woodland’s Edge. MetSon at the Swiss Chalet.
Martin Rowson’s Giving the Gift of Offence at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Phoenix River Band at Chapel Arts, with Sophie Rose in support.
The Sunbirds at the Tree House, Frome. The Beat featuring Ranking Junior at the Cheese & Grain.
Sunday 25th
Vince Bell at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.
Melksham Record Fair at the Assembly Hall.
Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Shed-ache Dance Theatre at The Constitutional Club Chippenham. Elvis in Blue Hawaii at the King Alfred Hall.
Bandeoke at Prestbury Sports Club, Warminster.
Schtumm presents DG Solaris & Courting Ghosts at the Long Room in Box. 3 Daft Monkeys Duo at The Bell, Bath.
Garth Marenghi’s Incarcerat at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
CSF Pro Wrestling: Showdown at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Monday 26th
Rock the Tots Family at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Josienne Clarke at Swindon Arts Centre,
Ben Tunnicliffe’s Nowhere Ensemble at The Bell, Bath.
Tuesday 27th
Valuation Day with Paul Martin at The Athenaeum in Warminster.
Sophie Stockham Quartet at Jazz Knights in the Royal Oak, Swindon. The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars – Soho Songbook at the Wyvern Theatre. Connor Burns at Swindon Arts Centre.
Sam Thomas at The Bell, Bath.
And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.
Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, let’s lots to get through…..
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.
Look, if it’s all the same to you, I cannot choose an Editor’s Pick of Week; too much great stuff happening. I’m doing a Chocolate making workshop at HollyChocs in Poulshot on Friday (see here,) then off to see Gaz Brookfield at West Lavington Village Hall, (Preview) which has to be one. Saturday, if you loved Adam & the Ants, you need to get to The Vic, Swindon for Ant Trouble (previous review) and if you love hip hop get down the Pump in Trowbridge for the Scribes (preview) but saying all this, when SGO come to the Southgate, Devizes, which they are on Saturday, it’s always a pleasure (past review.) Huge dilemma, ergo, can I have five Editor’s Picks of the Week this week?!!
Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed HERE.
Potterne Pantomime presents Robin Hood at the Potterne Village Hall, running until Saturday.
Wednesday 14th
Seed Bomb Making at Hillworth Park, Devizes, and the regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.
Glad to hear The Charlton Cat at Charlton St Peter has a grand reopening on Wednesday.
Counterfeit Sixties Show at the Neeld, Chippenham. Love Stories in Chippenham, don;t know where, One Chippenham your website seems to be down!
A lunchtime recital with violinist Madeleine Mitchell at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Sterling Elliott at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
Ghost The Musical at The Athenaeum, Warminster.
Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre screens Miss Potter (PG.) The Big Jam Session at The Vic.
Carrie the Musical at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Diddy Sweg at The Bell, Bath.
Thursday 15th
Open Mic nights return to The Cellar Bar, Devizes.
Seend Fawlty Players Presents Aladdin at Seend Community Centre, opening today, running up till Saturday.
Kid Carpet and the Noisy Garden Centre at Pound Arts, Corsham.
B-Sydes, Heartwork & Ed Poole at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Bob Porter Project at the Beehive. The Magic of Terry Pratchett at Swindon Arts Centre. Frankie Boyle’s show opens at the Wyvern Theatre and runs until Saturday.
Bath Bachfest opens and runs until Saturday with lots of concerts across the city.
Friday 16th
Innes Sibun Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. Disney’s Frozen Jr runs at the Wharf Theatre on Friday and Saturday.
Gaz Brookfield plays West Lavington Village Hall.
Ward Thomas at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Collateral with Zac & The New Men at The Vic. Soulphia, new name for Sophia Bovell’s Soul Rebels, plays The Cow in Swindon.
Classic Rock American Highway Show at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Bootleg Blondie at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Liam Helm & The Hang Ups at The Tree House.
Sorrel Pitts will be signing copies of her new novel Broken Shadows at Devizes Books. Reviewed HERE. There’s a Devizes Town Hall Ghost Hunt. The Truzzy Boys are at The Three Crowns, and S’GO at The Southgate, reviewed here. Oh, and of course, it’s DOCA’s Festival of Winter Ales.
The Devil’s Prefects Album Launch at The Barge on HoneyStreet.
Operation 77 at The Lamb, Marlborough.
The Scribes Boombox reaches the Pump in Trowbridge, preview here.
The George Ward School Reunion Disco Class of the 1970s, at the Spencer Club, Melksham.
Wiltshire Police Band at St Andrew’s Church Chippenham. Valentines Concert in Chippenham, at the Neeld, perhaps? One Chippenham, your website is down.
Gwilym Simcock Trio at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.
Framed! And Help! I Think I’m a Nationalist! at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Fleetwood Mac & Tom Petty The Legacy Show at Swindon Arts Centre. Apache Cats at Queens Tap. 12 Bars Later at Swiss Chalet. Ant Trouble at The Vic.
Deadlight Dance & Steve Mercy are art Chapter 22 Roots & Records, Bath. Joe Wilkinson
At the Rondo Theatre. This Flight Tonight – A Tribute to Joni Mitchell at Chapel Arts.
Cover Stories at Salisbury British Legion Hall. The Wiseguys at the Rising Sun, Wimborne.
Even N Song at The Ship, Shipton Bellinger.
Judge Jules is at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Sunday 18th
Chantelle Smith is with Richard Wileman & Valve at The Vic, Swindon. Brian Conley at the Wyvern Theatre.
The Woodlanders at The Bell, Bath.
Monday 19th
Buffy Revamped at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon
Swingle-Tree and Whistling Treason at The Bell, Bath.
Tuesday 20th
Ian Bateman Quartet plays Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon. Miles Jupp at the Wyvern Theatre.
POETIKA poetry slams at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.
And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed.
Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.
Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!
Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!
One of Swindon’s premier grunge pop-punkers, The Belladonna Treatment released their debut single, Bits of Elation, with London-based SODEH Records earlier this month. I spoke…
A second single from Swindon Diva Chloe Hepburn, Situationships was released this week. With a deep rolling bassline, finger-click rhythm and silky soulful vocals, this…
I’m delighted to announce Devizine will be actively assisting to organise a new county-wide music awards administration, in conjunction with Wiltshire Music Events UK. The…
Review by Pip Aldridge Last week, I had the privilege of seeing the Fulltone Orchestra perform at the beautiful Tewkesbury Abbey beneath the Peace Doves…
Whilst festivals around us come and go Mantonfest has been a constant of the Wiltshire music calendar since 2009.….
The 29th of June 2024 will once again see the Manton Water Meadow, near Marlborough transformed into a festival field providing an affordable family friendly music picnic by day and a more traditional music festival by night. Most people arrive and pick their spot between 11 am and 12 noon. The live music starts at noon and there will be something for everyone.
Unlike many music events, festival goers can bring their own food and drink or make use of the many food and drink facilities on site. With an eclectic ‘market’ of local traders and of course the band merchandise tent this event has a real buzz from start to finish.
Mantonfest 2023
The 2024 Line Up
This year’s line up is now complete. Headlining are The Bohemians a world class Queen tribute act. Badness return by popular demand (or should we say instance) after wowing everyone last year. Forever Elton and The Fab Four will get the whole field singing across the afternoon and evening. Local jumping blues band Barrelhouse will be getting the field moving with a blend of reworked classic and their own material and Jose and the Radio Tones plus The Bergamots will get the afternoon mood set perectly.
Mantonfest 2023
Young Talent Development Slots
Once again, this year Mantonfest is pleased to announce the continuation of its young talent development slot. Last year saw an impressive array of talent wow the audience and this year will continue the trend.
Mantonfest 2023
Chairman’s Comment
Chairman Roger Grant says – “This year’s event is one of our most ambitious and ticket sales are going very well. The event is managed by a volunteer committee who are supported by a range of villagers who help set up, steward and break down the festival. Without them we would be lost. It’s amazing that we have hosted the likes of Toyah, The Animals, The Swinging Blue Jeans, Katrina and the Waves, Dr Feelgood and many world class tribute acts across the years. As ever profits made will be donated to good causes including Cancer Research. The primary aim is to provide a great day out for those attending from near and far but we like to make donations where possible.“
If many space-rock acts have more band member changes than most other musicians change their socks, Hawkwind are the exemplar of the tendency. There might…
The second single from George’s sessions with Jolyon Dixon is out today, Isn’t She Lonely. With the vaudeville ambience of Queen’s later material and sprinkles…
A new music festival is coming to Devizes this July. Organisers of the long-running Marlborough based festival MantonFest are shifting west across the downs and…
Monsieur, with these Exchange Comedy night you are really spoiling us, for usually comedy in Devizes is just what we make ourselves; laughing at visitors…
V busy week ahead, too busy to type the word “very,” (though I just did type the word “very,”) despite the cold spell, nothings gonna stop us now, reminding me somewhat of Ollie & Jerry’s theme “Breakin’, there’s no stopping us.”
Not that it takes me much to be reminded of Ollie & Jerry – I think about them all the time, I wonder where they are and what they’re…..okay, let’s push on, we don’t need you to be like Turbo, no one to dance with other than a broom, (youngsters pipe down and Google it!) here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……
Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.
Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.
Artist Clifton Powell with Eric Walrond portrait at Wiltshire Museum
Wednesday 17th
The Melksham & Devizes Primary have a new year meet at the Kings Arms, Melksham; we recently did an interview with them, a really important issue, check it out here.
The regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.
Lunchtime Recital Series at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, with Babatunde Aleshe in the evening.
Opening night of The Wind in the Willows at The Rondo, Bath, running until Sunday the 21st. Meanwhile, Starlings play The Bell in Bath.
British Lion are at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.
Thursday 18th
M3g plays The Tuppenny, Swindon, Zamba Lando at The Beehive, John Otway at The Vic, a memory sing at Swindon Arts Centre, and Get It On at The Wyvern Theatre.
Friday 19th
Borrowed Atlas plays the Pump, Trowbridge, with Ravetank in support.
Cara Dillon is at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Forbidden Nights at Melksham Assembly Hall, ladies!
Stompers at The Boat House, Bradford-on-Avon.
Littlemen at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Dark Prophecy at The Vic, Swindon, UK Pink Floyd Experience at The Wyvern Theatre.
Saturday 20th
Day course: Wood Engraving with Robin Mackenzie at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes.
An album launch gig for Cracked Machine at the Southgate, Devizes, with Clock Radio in support. Siren at The Three Crowns. Real Music are at the Bear, with a Soul, Motown Disco.
Open Mic at The Barge Honeystreet.
Chippenham Record Fair, at The Citadel on Bath Road; free entry.
Editor’s Pick of the Week is Bradford Roots Festival at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon; I’ve been saving myself since new year for this! Incredible line-up, all day Saturday and Sunday, preview here, hope to see you there?
Cara Dillon is at Pound Arts, Corsham.
Ian Diddams and Wendy Dopheide take Happy Jack to the Athenaeum, Warminster for a two night run, Saturday and Sunday; here’s a review from when this show was at the Wharf in Devizes.
The Korgis – Time Machine at Chapel Arts, Bath.
Apache Cats at The New Inn, Swindon, The Rolling Clones at The Vic. Abba Forever at The Wyvern Theatre, and an RPA Golden Ticket Show at Swindon Arts Centre.
Sunday 21st
Manos Puestas at The Southgate, Devizes.
Bradford Roots Festival continues.
Sing-A-Long-A Matilda The Musical (PG) at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
Gordie Tentrees & Jaxon Haldane at The Bell, Bath.
Monday 22nd
Giovanni Pernice at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.
The Swing Vote at The Bell, Bath.
Tuesday 23rd
Vasilis Xenopoulos & Tom Berge Trio for the regular Jazz Knights The Royal Oak, Swindon.
Giovanni Pernice at The Wyvern Theatre.
And that’s your lot, let me know what we missed, we can list events for free, but a chocolate muffin works better to persuade me! Lots to look forward to this month, I’ll lob a few posters below, but keep your best eye on the……Event Calendar!! Also note, we have a new page for weekly events including clubs and activities, here: it’s new so we need to list some more, tell us what you know!
A drone operated by Wiltshire Hunt Sabs was attacked by a second drone, twice, while surveying The Beaufort Hunt, after it recorded them illegally hunting…
Bussing into Devizes Saturday evening, a gaggle (I believe is the appropriate collective noun) of twenty-something girls from Bath already on-board, disembark at The Market…
Once the demonic entity Spring-Heeled Jack entered folklore it became subject to many books and plays, diluting the once real threat of this Victorian bogeyman…
Devizes singer-songwriter Jamie Hawkins, famed for poignant narrative in his songs and one-third Lost Trade, has always had a passion for filmmaking; Teeth is the…
fortnight, and oh, and come back to spook this list again soon, as I’m sure more will be added!
Dress to impress in your Halloween finest! The Deputy Mayor will be on the lookout for the best costumes at 1:30pm right outside the Café – and there are prizes up for grabs in these categories:
Dates:
Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October
Fest opens at 12PM | Fun until 6PM
What’s waiting for you:
Craft & Produce Market – handmade gifts, bakes, jams, plants, sweets & more
Sweet & Cake Stalls
Arts & Crafts Activities
Burgers, Hot Dogs & Autumn Eats
Fun Tarot Readings
Live Music & Autumn Vibes
Beer, Wine & Seasonal Sips from the Bar
01672 646232 (Between 10am & 7pm)
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