ABD DOES IT AGAIN…

WINNERS OF THE BEST SMALL CONVEYANCING FIRM OF THE YEAR SILVER AWARD 2012

AWDRY BAILEY AND DOUGLAS ARE PROUD TO

RECEIVE THIS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD!

From left to right; Rebecca Adlington OBE, Ronna Turley, (Head of Conveyancing, Awdry Bailey and Douglas Solicitors), Alistair Everett,  (Partner, Awdry Bailey and Douglas Solicitors), Brad Marsh, (Safe Move Scheme).

The Estate Agency of the Year Awards in association with The Sunday Times and The Times is the longest running and most sought after awards in the residential property industry.  This event has been running for over 10 years with Zoopla Property Group as the main sponsor.

The Conveyancer of the Year Awards are in recognition of the vital part that conveyancers play in the process of moving house and ABD were very proud to have won the Silver Award.

“Our success is based on the genuine interest and enthusiasm of the Conveyancing team in helping our clients through what can be quite a stressful time.  We have excellent IT systems and efficient office procedures but the great service is really about having fantastic team members who genuinely care about our clients and consistently work hard to improve the experience of moving home”.   ABD partner, Alistair Everett.

Tickets were a sell out!

The day started with ABD Conveyancing Team arriving at The Lancaster London Hotel situated in the heart of London with lovely views over Hyde Park.

Seminars took place from world-class speakers during the first part of the morning aiming to provide inspiration and insight into the property industry, latest trends, what the future holds and also Q and A sessions.

The Awards Ceremony

Olympic medallist, Rebecca Adlington OBE also attended this exciting ceremony to present the Awards and share her story of world success in Beijing where she won double Gold in 2008 and in the London 2012 games where she won a further 2 medals!  

ABD Win

This Silver Award is a very clear indication of the hard work and excellent services ABD provides.

For more information go to www.estateagencyoftheyear.com 

ARE YOU, OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW, GOING TO BE AFFECTED BY THE UPCOMING WELFARE REFORM?

ABD SOLICITOR SIMON LOFTHOUSE SITS ON PANEL AT

WELFARE REFORM QUESTION TIME

THE PANEL

SIMON LOFTHOUSE - SOLICITOR FROM AWDRY BAILEY AND DOUGLAS SOLICITORS

CLAIRE PERRY, MP

ED COUPE - HOST FOR QUESTION TIME

SARAH CARDY - CEO OF WILTSHIRE CAB

FERGUS ARKLEY - DEVELOPMENT MANAGER FOR CARERS TRUST

IAN PRICE - DWP NATIONAL PARTNERSHIP MANAGER

Question Time took place on Friday 7 December 2012 at Devizes Town Hall to debate issues surrounding the changes to important benefits.  This debate was well attended by people.

Questions were asked by the audience to the expert panel who gave independent answers.

Questions related to;

Housing benefit issues

Carer's requirements

Benefits on-line

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Universal Credit

Bedroom tax

and much more...

Simon and the rest of the panel were able to provide the audience with informative and valued advice regarding many changes that will affect carers and the people they care for.

THERE IS HELP AND SUPPORT

for more information go to;       www.carersinwiltshire.co.uk

CHIPPENHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS “SWITCH ON” – 23 NOVEMBER 2012

ABD SPONSOR MAIN CHRISTMAS TREE!

Chippenham Christmas lights “Switch on” attracts 1000’s of people to this exciting event and this year was no exception….

Not even the torrential rain that we experienced over the past few days prevented people from turning out in big crowds to see the street entertainers, Christmas stalls, the Wellerhaus Fair Organ, the craft fayre in the Neeld Hall and more!

At about 6.15pm, once the massive crowds of people had gathered outside The Angel Hotel which dates from the 1700’s and is situated in the market place, a surprise entrance was made by Father Christmas climbing from the roof top of the hotel down to the balcony where Chippenham Mayor Andy Phillips with his special guest Rawshan Abdullah who won this year’s Christmas card competition and compere Rosie Hogg were watching in awe and waiting to switch on the Christmas lights.

The main Christmas tree was huge and looked magnificent once lit with lovely tree decorations provided by the children of Redland Primary School and the big ABD banners around the base of the tree.

The ABD team;  Alex David, Tim Hotchkiss, Keshani Douglas, Andrew Douglas , Frances Nash and Cindy Ervine were there on hand to lend support to this exciting event and promote the opening of the new ABD office which will take place during the first quarter of 2013.

For more information about the Christmas light Switch on go to www.chippenham.gov.uk 

BATH RUGBY MATCH DAY SPONSOR

ABD ENTERTAINS…

Saturday, 10 November 2012 was a lovely autumnal day and the likelihood of rain was nil! In other words ABD guests were in for a fantastic day of great food and great rugby…

ABD Partners; Alistair Everett, Andrew Douglas, Roger Chadwick and team had invited their guests to watch Bath Rugby v Newport Gwent Dragons at The Recreation Ground in Bath!

After enjoying a delicious and filling 3 course silver service lunch in the Illustrious Suite, ABD guests were ready to relax in the Wadworths 6X Stand and face the game!

ABD team and their guests enjoying a silver service bite to eat before the match!

THE GAME

Almost ready to begin!

Kick off was at 2.15pm and straight into an exciting game ending in half time score;

Bath Rugby 22 – Newport Gwent Dragons 10. 

MAN OF THE MATCH!
“Fijian winger Semesa Rokoduguni scored 2 tries on his debut and fly-half Tom Heathcote landed 8 kicks out of 8 as Bath made a winning start in the LV=Cup with a 35-15 victory over Newport Gwent Dragons”. Sky Sports.

Bath rugby came out from the second half and continued to control the game, with a great team try in the first five minutes.  The break came on the 72nd minute after fast work from the lineout saw the ball move quickly into the middle of the field where Fijian winger Semesa  Rokoduguni timed his run perfectly , shrugging  off 2 Newport defenders , taking Heathcote’s pass and scoring  under the posts extending the Bath lead to 36-10. With only 4 minutes to go Newport hit back with a consolation try from Dan Evans, but by then the victory was secured for the home side.

(Left to right ;) Michael Joyce, (Cooper and Tanner), Semesa Rokoduguni, (Bath Rugby “Winger”), Roger Chadwick, (ABD Partner), and Ollie Devoto (Bath Rugby Academy “Fly Half”).

THE FINAL SCORE AND MATCH DETAILS
Final Score Bath Rugby 36 – Newport Gwent Dragons 15

BATH
Tries: Rokoduguni (8, 74), Banahan (42)
Cons: Heathcote (8, 43, 75)
Pens: Heathcote (2, 20, 24, 34, 42)

NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS
Tries: Wardle (5), Evans (77)
Cons: Jones (6)
Pens: Jones (21)

After a fantastic and exciting game, an enticing high tea was served back in the warm Illustrious Suite.

BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION
“The Bath Rugby Foundation aims to inspire, change and improve the lives of young people in the wider community. Established in 2003, Bath Rugby Foundation is an independent charity. It is funded by grants and donations from businesses and individuals. In 2011, 22,500 children and young people in the Bath area benefited from the activities of The Bath Rugby Foundation”.
Bath Rugby.

(Left to right ;) Roger Chadwick (ABD Partner) with Michael Joyce (Cooper and Tanner) and Tom Biggs (Bath Rugby “Wing”). 

SHIRT RAFFLE

ABD party were happy to sponsor this important charity and raised £130. As a result Michael Joyce from Cooper and Tanner Estate Agents won the sponsor raffle prize which was a rugby shirt signed by the Bath Rugby players who had played that day.

For more information go to www.bathrugby.com

ABD WELCOMES CINDY ERVINE

A warm welcome from ABD to Cindy Ervine, who recently joined the firm.  Cindy is a matrimonial solicitor and trained collaborative lawyer who has been based in North Wiltshire for some 19 years.  During that time, she has covered all areas of family law.

Cindy is based at ABD's Royal Wootton Bassett office which she very much enjoys as she finds the town is friendly, vibrant and has lots to offer.  She also covers ABD's Calne office to meet clients and discuss matters relating to family law as and when required.

Cindy is a member of "splitz" which provides support and assistance to families based in Wiltshire and sits on the Chippenham contact centre committee.  She has also been reaccredited in her application for the Law Society Advanced Family Panel with specialisms in domestic violence and children.  As an experienced advocate, Cindy ensures that clients feel supported through the court process.

As well as looking after her 2 children, Cindy enjoys red wine and yoga in her spare time - although NOT together!

To find out more about Cindy and the family law team, click onto "our people", or you can email Cindy relating to any family issues; cindy.ervine@awdrys.co.uk

WINNER OF MARY PORTAS AWARD

RECOMMENDS ABD!



Awdry Bailey and Douglas partner and head of commercial Roger Chadwick received a glowing recommendation from Corina Papadopoulou, winner of the Prestigious Mary Portas "Best for Childrens" Daily Telegraph "Best Small Shops in Britain" award 2012.

KIDSEN - BEAUTIFUL THINGS FOR KIDS

Corina Papadopoulou set up her shop called Kidsen, based in London NW10. Kidsen is the UK's first Scandinavian Store selling colourful quirky design-led children's clothes, shoes, accessories and more!

Mary Portas - Britain's leading retail marketing consultant and broadcaster who is best known for her business related TV shows presented the award to Corina earlier this year at Novikov Restaurant in London's fashionable Mayfair.

ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS....

"When I first embarked on the difficult journey of setting up my own store on a competitive high street I had no experience and if I had not been fortunate enough to meet Roger Chadwick I am sure it would have been a much more stressful process.  Roger Chadwick's "no nonsense" approach, extensive knowledge and professional manner ensured the process of securing the lease for my retail store was speedy and painless.  Roger is thorough, trustworthy and genuine.  I walked away fully understanding this complex area of my business and with a great end result.

I couldn't recommend Roger Chadwick highly enough and as a matter of fact I have with more happy customers".

Corina Papadopoulou. 

For more information go to www.kidsen.co.uk

AN INTERESTING CASE

WHERE THERE’S A WILL THERE’S A WAY

Two adult children wanted to challenge 4 wills made by their mother shortly before her death in November 2007. Their mother died of brain cancer.  But the two adult children alleged that she lacked capacity, had want of knowledge and approval, and was the subject of undue influence when making these wills…

They decided that they would seek professional advice and help from ABD solicitor Peter Shah who is the firm’s resident partner based at ABD Royal Wootton Bassett offices. Peter specialises in litigious matters and contentious probate.

The main asset of their mother’s estate was the majority shareholding in her private limited company worth several million pounds.

In 1993 she made a will simply leaving her estate to her 4 children. That will would be superseded  by the 4 later  wills  made in September and October 2007 when she left her shares in the estate into a discretionary trust which could have meant the two adult children would receive nothing.

The executors of the estate maintained that these 4 wills were valid.  There was a considerable amount of documentation to take into account including sizeable medical records, the papers of the previous solicitors who had drafted the wills, and the wills themselves which were complex documents.  What made matters worse was that one of the executors was their mother’s husband (not their father) who had benefited from a transfer of shares shortly before his wife died at a significant undervalue.

Having maintained the stance that there were no concessions, mediation took place in May 2010 to see if a settlement could be reached.  Some progress on that front was made but then the other side withdrew from the mediation process. A report was obtained from an Old Age Consultant Psychiatrist to comment on the Deceased’s state of mind when she made the wills which were the subject matter of legal challenge.  Whilst his report was not unequivocal it provided some useful pointers when court proceedings were finally issued in the High Court at the end of 2010. A defence was served by the other side, and directions for the conduct of the case were made whereby it was set down for Trial for 19 days to be heard in April.

However, at the end of 2011 after 4 years wrangling, the other side indicated that they would not contest the claim being brought by the two adult children which meant that the 2007 wills were set aside and subsequently the 1993 admitted to probate.

Peter fought a hard legal battle on behalf of his clients and, whatever the reasons, the other side had to concede the claim and the actions of the two adult children were wholly justified with thanks to Peter.

ABD TAKES PART IN...

THE WORLDS BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING – MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT.

Awdry Bailey and Douglas Solicitors took part in the Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning last Friday, 28 September 2012 in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. The total raised including donations and gift aid amounted to over £300.

Macmillan Cancer Support is a charity registered organisation, who has helped to improve the lives of people affected by cancer in assisting with emotional, financial and practical support.  Macmillan Cancer Support raise money through coffee mornings, sponsored events, marathons, and much more…

COFFEE MORNINGS TOOK PLACE ALL OVER THE UK!

ABD clients and local business people were invited to enjoy coffee, cakes and a chat at ABD’s Marlborough Office on the Marlborough Business Park organised by ABD Solicitor Simon Lofthouse. Guests also included Mayor of Marlborough Councillor Edwina Fogg, with her husband Nick who is the town’s jazz festival organiser, and Claire Perry MP.

Coffee, cake and chat!


Photo above; ABD Partner Andrew Douglas greets Mayor of Marlborough Councillor Edwina Fogg with her husband Nick.

Photo above left; Claire Perry MP with ABD Solicitor Simon Lofthouse.

Photo above right; Local business people and clients enjoying coffee and cakes.

 













Photo above; ABD Solicitor Simon Lofthouse holding cakes which were donated from Haydens Bakery, Devizes. 

Many thanks to the suppliers who also helped with this event...

The coffee was supplied by Tesco’s in Marlborough, cakes were supplied by Haydens Bakery in Devizes, and cups were supplied by Huhtamaki based in Gosport.

Did you know?

In 1911, a young man called Douglas Macmillan saw his father die of cancer.  His father’s pain and suffering upset Douglas so much that he founded the ‘Society for the Prevention and Relief of Cancer’.

He did this because he wanted advice and information to be provided to all people who suffered with cancer, he wanted homes for patients at low or no cost, and voluntary nurses to attend to patients in their own homes.

Today, much of his legacy lives on. Macmillan is still a source of support for people living with cancer today and is a force for improving cancer care. Last year Macmillan Cancer Support celebrated their 100th birthday.

Did you know?

The first National World’s Biggest Coffee Morning took place in 1991 when approx 2,600 people registered to hold coffee mornings across the country. Since then it has raised over £60 million in total for Macmillan Cancer Support.

For more information, or if you would like to make a donation - www.coffee.macmillan.org.uk/donate.

ABD GOLF CORPORATE DAY

Wonderful weather, fantastic day…

"The sun was warm and shining. September sky was blue. An eventful occasion, with fantastic views.  ABD golf!  Their corporate day!  One to remember, and to others relay…”

Bacon Butties and fresh coffee was a great start to the day for ABD guests - especially where golf was concerned!

Above left to right; Tony Awdry, Philip O’Shea, Simon Holt, Peter Johnson, Steve Phillips, Wayne Elliott, Simon Ewings, Giles Craig and Alistair Everett.

This was followed by practise "putting" on the putting green, and checking out "technique” with golf pro Simon at the driving range just before teeing off in a four ball at appropriate timings around the famous Bowood Golf Course!

Far right above; Steve Phillips, Simon Jacobs and Alistair Everett are ready to play!

The day was a long and eventful one with four ball teams enjoying their rounds on the famous 18 hole golf course.

Below; Andrew Douglas was raring to go with microphone at the ready and to introduce players to the first tee! Meanwhile Colin Scragg tees off on the blues with his four ball companions looking on in awe!

Above; Alex David chats to Paul Warren and is joined by Wayne Elliott after a quick practice in the driving range whilst Peter Shah, Rob Hunt, Toby Huggins and Rupert Lawson-Johnston admire ABDs new AbdCare Sail on the golf course!

As the day started to end and evening began, all players were ready for a well earned pint!  At about 7.30pm a delicious 2 course supper was then served followed by coffee, chocs and prize giving.

Bottom left to right; Ian Kenworthy, Peter Shah, Richard Jaggs and Philip O’Shea. 

Above left to right; Steve Phillips, Alex Minoudis, Andrew Fleming, Andrew Douglas, Ron Yates and Ben Short.

Winners of the day included –

Best Gross Score – Philip O’Shea
Stableford prize– Andrew Fleming
Putting Champion – Richard Jaggs
Longest Drive – Mark Hulse
Nearest The Pin – Alan Hawkins
Nearest The Line – David Curwen
Most Birdies – Paul Warren

Carriages home – about 9.45pm!  Well done everyone! 

Left to right; Philip O’Shea, Rupert Lawson-Johnston, Andrew Fleming, David Curwen, Richard Jaggs and Mark Hulse.

“Wonderful weather, fantastic day! Prizes were won and taken away….”

ABD IS THE LEAD SPONSOR FOR ONE OF THE BIGGEST FAMILY OUTDOOR CELEBRATIONS IN WILTSHIRE!

The Devizes Carnival celebrates its 100th anniversary this year and ABD is proud to be the lead sponsor!

Devizes has a very long tradition of fairs, markets and carnivals...

The Devizes Carnival and International Street Festival is an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary festival styles.  It is the biggest community event in the town's calendar and one of the largest outdoor celebrations in Wiltshire. The festival consists of 2 weeks of events held in late August and early September and includes the Devizes International Street Festival, Picnic in the Park, Confetti Battle and the Carnival Procession together with a host of other supporting events.

Family Fun Events....

Picnic in the Park is a free event which has featured a range of key musicians playing live music to people who have brought along their own picnics to listen to and enjoy.

"Last year we had the biggest crowd ever, with 500 people attending. It's a fun and social event and Hillworth Park is a lovely venue."  Gazette and Herald Newspaper.

The Confetti Battle is a popular local tradition that has been taking place for many years standing, and one in which everyone can take part in. Great fun!

The Devizes Carnival Parade is a spectacular event and promises to be even more spectacular and a very special celebration this year, marking its 100th anniversary.  It starts on the green and goes through the town centre.  A free community costume making workshop has been available to all in the run up to the carnival.

ABD is the lead sponsor this year for these exciting events and is proud to be supporting the community!

Picnic in the Park - 19 August 2012
Comedy Night - 23 August 2012
Street Festival - 26 and 27 August 2012
Carnival Procession - 1 September 2012

For more information -  www.devizescarnival.co.uk

CONGRATULATIONS TO JANE DALE!

ABD PRIZE DRAW WINNER

Many congratulations to Jane Dale who won the ABD prize draw recently.

ABD prize draw takes place every 6 months and randomly selects a questionnaire that a client has completed.

Lucky winner Jane Dale was absolutely delighted to win an M & S gift card, especially as she has just moved house!

"As always, thanks to you and your firm for providing a service of a consistently high standard".  Jane Dale.

The next ABD prize draw will take place in December 2012.

A TOUGH CHALLENGE ACHIEVED..

EVERY PENNY COUNTED!

A CATCHUP WITH CATHERINE AFTER HER RACE

Many congratulations and well done to Catherine Cole (based at ABD’s Calne Office) who proudly handed over a cheque to Claire Kelly, Head of Charity Services for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.  The cheque was for the sum of £632.00.

(Left to right; Claire Kelly, Head of Charity Services for WAA, Steve Riddle, Paramedic for WAA and Catherine Cole, ABD Solicitors.)

As Catherine handed over the cheque, it was a time to briefly reminisce all the hard training she had done in the winter months prior to this race which took place on 27 May 2012 in Edinburgh.  Catherine had fulfilled one of her achievements - running the Edinburgh Marathon…

The Edinburgh Marathon started in May 2003. It is considered to be a “fast and flat” run over the traditional distance of 42.195 kilometres. This course was voted the fastest marathon run in the UK by Runners World Magazine 2008. This year more than 23,000 runners from 100 countries took part!  Organisers provided some 131,085 bottles of water along the 26.2mile route and another 29,000 or so at the finish!

Most of Catherine’s training had been done in the winter months, so it was quite a shock for her to be running in glorious sunshine and near to 25 degrees! She achieved what she had set out to do though, and finished in a fantastic time of 4 hours and 44 minutes with her friend Caroline Catt who had also trained with her. Catherine says that she could not have run it without Caroline’s support and it was a joint achievement.

Catherine and Caroline wanted to raise funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a unique charity whose sole aim is to save the lives of people living in Wiltshire…

DID YOU KNOW?

• Air Ambulance helicopter MD EXPLORER is 12 years old.
• The Unit has been in operation for about 22 years. There are 5 paramedics, 4 police observers, and 3 pilots.
• Wiltshire has the only dedicated Air Ambulance service that can fly at night.
• It can reach anywhere in the county within 11 minutes.
• It is NOT government funded.
• It is funded only by community fundraising and donations.
• Due to its specialist equipment it can land ANYWHERE.

The daily cost to keep the Wiltshire Air Ambulance flying and saving lives is £2000.

The annual cost to keep the Wiltshire Air Ambulance flying and saving lives is £700,000

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

In order to help keep this critical life saving service going, they need support. Remember it is NOT government funded.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Click on this link www.wiltshireaireambulance.co.uk  to find out more about fundraising activities and how you could help.

Many congratulations to Catherine and also to Caroline who equally could not have achieved this without Catherine’s support and raised over £300 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Well done to you both – a real team effort!

What is Catherine’s next challenge? We will have to wait and see!

GOLF CUP CHALLENGE!

AWDRY, DOUGLAS AND EVERETT v STRAKERS 

It was that annual time of year again, when grey blustery showers of rain set in (english summer!) and the Golf Cup Challenge commenced......

The venue was Castle Combe Golf Club, and the hosts were Strakers Estate Agents!

Bacon butties and coffee were the first challenge of the day.  The rains then lifted albeit weather still grey, and the game began!

There were 4 x 4 balls, with Awdry, Douglas and Everett winning 3 games to 1. The "longest drive" competition was won by Ben Fitzgibbon (Strakers) and the "nearest pin" competition was won by Jo Phelan (ABD). A good days worth of golf which everybody thoroughly enjoyed.

As day turned into night everybody tucked into their delicious evening fare in the dining room of Castle Combe Clubhouse ending with prize giving and carriages home at around 9.30pm.

Strakers won the cup last year, Awdry, Douglas and Everett won it back this year, the question is - who will win it next year??!

We will have to wait and see....

ABD HITS THE SPOT WITH MARLBOROUGH

 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ WEEKEND

Marlborough International Jazz was founded in 1986 and takes place annually in many venues across the town of Marlborough. The festival took place from Friday 13th – Sunday 15th inclusive with a fantastic line-up of jazz music extravaganza!

“100 performances in 20 venues over 3 days”

Bands from 18 countries performed in 20 different locations from noon until after midnight in different venues around Marlborough over the exciting 3 day event.

As a Main Sponsor, ABD have been supporting this festival for 5 years and are proud to be sponsors of this popular event which has attracted people from all over the country to attend. Despite the rainy weather, f igures look to show that this year’s international event looks like being the biggest and the best!  In an interview with Marlborough News on line, ABD Partner Andrew Douglas said “The festival’s gone from strength to strength and they say this may be the best! All things being well, we shall be back here next time for the sixth year.”

ABD PRIORY MARQUEE – A FULL HOUSE!

ABD Priory Marquee based in Priory Park was once again jam packed with a FULL HOUSE audience!  By Saturday night 1,500 people had attended the marquee to hear live performances. It was a sell out!!

GRAND FINALE – “FEELING GOOD”

The ABD Priory Marquee where Clare Teal gave a grand finale rapturous performance on Sunday afternoon demanded two encores after Clare backed by her fantastic trio, came to the end of her “Feeling Good” show to a full house audience!

Clare Teal with fantastic trio, drummer- Steve Rushton, double bassist - Simon Little and pianist- Grant Windsor.

FANASTIC!

To read more about the interview with ABD Partner Andrew Douglas and Marlborough Jazz www.marlboroughnewsonline.co.uk 

ABDCARE AND BREWIN DOLPHIN

LAUNCH LONGTERM CARE SEMINARS

A POPULAR CHOICE!

abdcare (a division of ABD Solicitors) in association with Brewin Dolphin, one of the UK’s largest “Private Client Investment Managers” have launched a succession of seminars for the year 2012.  These seminars address the issues surrounding later life planning and how you or your loved ones may be affected should long term care be needed.  This has proved to be an extremely popular choice, with a high attendance level of people taking on board this current affairs issue.

For more information go to www.abdcare.co.uk

THE TEAM

Left to right; Tony Awdry (ABD) Myles Palmer Brewin Dolphin), Alex Minoudis (Brewin Dolphin), Andrew Douglas (ABD), Simon Lofthouse (ABD) and Matt Guilaume (Brewin Dolphin).

NEXT SEMINAR - Monday 16 July 2012 at Urchfont Manor, Urchfont, near Devizes.

TO BOOK A FREE SPACE – www.abdcare.co.uk OR telephone 01380 722311

ABD IS PROUD TO BE A KEY SPONSOR OF DEVIZES FESTIVAL AND TO HOST THE LEAD EVENT …

“AN EVENING WITH JOHN HUMPHRYS”

As Key Sponsors of Devizes Festival 2012 generally, ABD were delighted to be sponsoring this event in particular, and with invited guests enjoyed drinks and canapés in the The Bear Hotel, Devizes beforehand. “An evening with John Humphreys” took place in The Corn Exchange and was enjoyed by many people. It was virtually a “full house”!

John Humphrys – author, journalist, broadcaster and presenter of radio and television – in particular BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, also he is currently the host of BBC 2’S television quiz show “Mastermind” gave a wide ranging talk last night about his life in the news, his books, politics and much much more! He even answered questions from the audience!

“A great evening enjoyed by all!”


 

Left to right; ABD Partners - Roger Chadwick, Alex David and Andrew Douglas with John Humphreys (centre),  Alistair Everett (ABD Partner) and Tim Hotchkiss, Commercial Property Lawyer in The Corn Exchange, Devizes 16 June 2012.

ABD LAUNCH NEW ASSOCIATE WEBSITE

ABD Solicitors are proud to launch their new associate website abdcare. This exciting new launch coincides with a series of 6 seminars this year based on the current affairs news subject - long term care.

This brand new website is intended to be user friendly and will provide direct access to our specialist care team whose expertise is the recovery of care home fees and asset protection.

What is abdcare about?

abdcare provides an overview of useful information about the long term care system in this country and how best to “plan and prepare”.  Presently, it is estimated that 45% of people in care are self funding at an average cost of £950 per week for care in a registered nursing home.

The launch of the abdcare website also coincides with the publication of the government funded commission on long term care chaired by Andrew Dilnott.  His view is that “this existing system is not fit for purpose”.

The site has a purposefully designed mascot which is an owl. The abdcare owl is intended to depict the provision of wise and considered information.

Want to reserve a space at one of our seminars?

Want to learn more about abdcare? 

www.abdcare.co.uk

HELP - EVERY PENNY COUNTS!

A TOUGH CHALLEGE AHEAD

  EDINBURGH MARATHON

The heavy rain and cold strong winds affected us all last weekend in some way or another, but not for Catherine Cole who was out there training in readiness for the Edinburgh Marathon which takes place on 27 May 2012 .......

The last time we caught up with Catherine (who is based at ABD's Calne Office) was when she ran the Reading Half Marathon in March 2011 which was a tough one but, she still managed to complete it in good time.

Catherine decided to start running seriously just over 2 years ago.  She had some earlier attempts but failed dismally! She decided to take the "bull by the horns" and joined a local running club in Calne on a beginners running course.  There were 20 in the group to start with; finishing 10 weeks later with a 5k run around the town, followed by a well earned drink at the local pub! They had all completed the run and were very proud of their achievement!

Catherine knew at this stage that she wanted to continue with her running and so started to progress further.  She decided to join an intermediate running session and very quickly progressed to the main club session.  To her surprise she found herself entering local 10k races which she completed in relatively good times!

Catherine has gone on to complete 3 half marathons, the most recent being on 1 April 2012 in a time of 1 hour 52 minutes.

Her biggest challenge now is to complete the Edinburgh Marathon and she is DETERMINED to do it!

Catherine is currently following a 10 week training programme designed by club coach Amy Chalk, who is high calibre GBR international marathon runner.  Catherine trains 4 times a week, with her long runs on a Saturday morning.

Paul Radcliffe has given Catherine a huge amount of advice in her aptly named book "How To Run" regarding diet during training, and leading up to the race day, amongst loads of other useful information - all very technical stuff!

This race is Catherine's BIGGEST CHALLENGE YET, so she is taking this as an opportunity to raise funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The Air Ambulance is a unique charity whose sole aim is to save the lives of people living in Wiltshire.  Each year they need to find in excess of £700,000 in order to keep the helicopter flying.  This is one of the 7,000+ charities who rely on "JustGiving", an online fundraising business.  Every penny of every pound is donated through JustGiving will go straight to charity.

If you would like to help support Catherine, her fundraising page is;

www.justgiving.com/Catherine-Cole3

Catherine is training very hard, and as a result, she hopes to be able to give the proceeds to Air Ambulance - a very worthy cause.

We will catch up with Catherine after her race.

GOOD LUCK CATHERINE! RUN WELL!

NICOLA NEWTON RETIRES FROM ABD
A FOND FAREWELL LUNCH AND GIFTS

ABD Staff and Partners took Nicola Newton out to lunch followed by a glass of fizz back at the office, a presentation of farewell presents, and speech from ABD Partner Andrew Douglas on behalf of Staff and Partners to say farewell to Nicola who retired Thursday, 4 April 2012.

Nicola qualified as a solicitor in 1985 and has dealt with a wide range of residential and commercial property work.

Nicola joined ABD’s Commercial Team in 2007 as a Commercial Property Solicitor and has worked for private individuals, councils, housing associations, developers and commercial companies with extensive property portfolios.

Nicola has been a popular and well respected member of staff in the office and will be sadly missed.

Nicola starts her retirement by enjoying a holiday in USA which she is very much looking forward to once she has her passport renewed!

FAREWELL NICOLA AND HAPPY RETIREMENT!

LAW SOCIETY PRESIDENT MEETS PARTNERS OF ABD

29 MARCH 2012

Law Society President John Wotton met with the Partners of ABD at the firms Royal Wootton Bassett Office last Thursday for tea.

John Wotton is a highly influential figure in the development of the legal services profession and has been on the Law Society’s Council since September 2007.  He became President at the Annual General Meeting on 14 July 2011.

INVEST! INVEST! INVEST!

Hot on the agenda were concerns the Partners had about changes in the way that solicitors practices are being required to operate, and in particular;

-           The need to create a level playing field between solicitors and less regulated suppliers            

of the legal services.

-           The ban on referral fees.

-          The future of high street practices.

-          The strength of the brand which is co-operative legal services.

At a time of change, the meeting was a significant boost for the reputation and future of ABD.  John Wotton was “very impressed by the quality of the management of ABD and their readiness to embrace the future”.

After the meeting, John Wotton went on to give a presentation at Bowood Golf and Country Club, Chippenham, to members of the profession regarding the future of the role of Solicitors.

  

ABD Partners from left to right; Alistair Everett, Roger Chadwick, John Wotton, Andrew Douglas, Peter Shah and Tony Awdry.

URGENT

AWDRY BAILEY AND DOUGLAS (“ABD”)

 

NOTICE ABOUT RECOVERY OF CARE HOME FEES DEADLINE

REGISTER BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE

DEADLINE DATE 30 SEPTEMBER 2012

No matter how rich or how poor, if you or somebody you know is in a care home because of a Primary Health need, neither they nor you should be paying Care Home fees.

The Department of Health has recently announced that for periods of care between 1 April 2004 and 31 March 2011 the deadline date for applying for backdated NHS funding EXPIRES on 30 September 2012.

DON’T MISS OUT ON YOUR ENTITLEMENT TO NHS FUNDING.

For more information contact on a no obligation basis our specialist ABD Care Team by telephoning 01672 518620 or emailing Wayne Elliot wayne.elliot@awdrys.co.uk for a FREE appointment now.

ABD WINS

THE

MAYORS SALVER CHALLENGE RACE 2012

The Devizes Annual Pancake Race was organised by Age UK Wiltshire and held in the Market Place, Devizes, on Shrove Tuesday, 21 February 2012, between 12.30pm-1.30pm to celebrate Pancake Day! Good donations were made this year including ABD’s donation of £100.  All profits from this event go to Age UK Wiltshire to fund their work with older people.

The majority of races were run by local schools followed by single team’s races.  This year, ABD’s team consisted of Wayne Elliott, David Kelshall, Simon Lofthouse and Catherine Cole all of whom did a fantastic job in winning the “Mayors Salver Challenge Race” which was a relay race whilst tossing pancakes in the air with a frying pan!  Onlookers had great fun in cheering the teams on whilst eating pancakes of their own at the sidelines.  The first relay took place against Wilkinson’s which ABD managed to win and enabled them to enter the final heat against Age UK Wiltshire.  It was a tough run to start with, but ABD team managed to sail through and WIN!                                                                                                                                                                                                               

       

First to take off is Catherine Cole competing against Wilkinson’s in the first heat!

   

The silver Salver was then presented by Mayor Sue Evans and will be available for viewing in ABD Devizes office reception once it has been engraved.

 

Well done team for not only winning, but also for supporting a very worthwhile community cause.

For more information regarding Age UK Wiltshire go to www.ageukwiltshire.org.uk

ABD IS THE LEAD SPONSOR FOR ONE OF THE BIGGEST OUTDOOR CELEBRATIONS IN WILTSHIRE!

The Devizes Carnival celebrates its 100^th anniversary this year and ABD is proud to be the lead sponsor!

Devizes has a long tradition of fairs, markets and carnivals…

The Devizes Carnival and International Street Festival are an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary carnival styles. The Devizes Carnival is the biggest outdoor community event in the town’s calendar and consists of 2 weeks of festival activities in late August and early September. It is one of the biggest outdoor celebrations in Wiltshire last year’s Carnival drawing over 10,000 people to Devizes!  The Carnival events include the Devizes International Street Festival, Picnic in the Park, Confetti Battle and the Carnival Procession amongst lots of other supporting events.

The Picnic in the park, which is a free event, is held in Hillworth Park Devizes and features a range of musicians playing live music to people whilst they enjoy their picnics.

 “Last year we had the biggest crowd ever, with 500 people attending. It’s a fun and social event and Hillworth Park is a lovely venue.”  Gazette and Herald Newspaper

The Confetti Battle which takes place over the Carnival weekend is a popular local tradition that has been taking place for many years, and one in which everyone can take part.

The Devizes Carnival Parade is a spectacular event and promises to be even more spectacular this year marking its 100^th anniversary. The parade starts on the green and goes through the town centre.  A free community costume making workshop has been available to anyone wanting to build a float or take part in the Parade!

ABD will be the lead sponsor for these exiting events and is proud to be supporting the community!