Wootton Bassett Chamber of Commerce

Say 'Konichiwa' at our lunch on 8th Feb

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:37:00 GMT

Join us for a delicious eat-as-much-as-you-like Indian lunch buffet on Wednesday 8th February, 12.30pm at Ganges Restaurant, 147 High Street Plus you can enjoy an informal talk from our speaker who’ll be telling us more about building good working relationships with Japanese colleagues, including: <ul> <li>Japanese business culture & etiquette</li> <li>Using ultra-simple English </li> <li>How to measure cultural difference </li> <li>Day-to-day Japanese words </li> </ul> £8.00 for members or £10.00 for non-members. Pre-booking required to reserve a place Call Angie on 01793 323103 or email info@woottonbassett.biz   (and by the way, 'konichiwa' is Japanese for 'hello')   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

News for the New Year

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:25:00 GMT

All the very latest news, events and special offers in 2012 from your local Chamber of Commerce. For more details on any of the articles below, click on the news title or the individual links. <hr /> EVENTS A full diary for 2012 starts next week.  Here are our planned events up until March: 1.    Home-workers drop-in – Weds 25th January, anytime between 12.30 and 2pm, The Croft Coffee and chat, talk business or banter - for those who work from home and want to get away from their own company for a while and meet-up with others.  Open to all – free of charge to members, £2.00 for non-members. <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=240:networking-in-the-new-costa&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">2.    Costa Coffee Networking Evening – Thurs 26th January from 6.30pm</a> Network informally over a cappuccino, latte, Americano coffee or tea in the relaxed atmosphere of the new Costa in Borough Fields.  This event is FREE for members (includes first coffee).  There’s a £5.00 entry charge for non-members. Booking essential. <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=187:lunch-with-speaker&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">3.    Lunch with speaker – Wednesday 8th February, 12.30pm, Ganges Restaurant</a> We’ll be joined by speaker Chris Hoggarth who’ll be giving us a lively talk about working with Japanese colleagues.  Chris will be sharing some of his knowledge of the different business culture and day-to-day etiquette involved when working with the Japanese.  Lunch is £8.00 for members, £10.00 non-members, which includes an eat-as-much-as-you-like Indian buffet. <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=241:smarter-working-see-it-for-real-on-our-visit-to-plantronics&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">4.    Plantronics Visit – Weds 21st March, 6pm</a> Our own private tour of the European base of audio technology specialist Plantronics at Interface Business Park.  Look around their recently refurbished Smarter Working environment.  We’ve been lucky enough to have a sneak preview and we highly recommend this visit.  Click on the title link now for more info on their fantastic premises.  Don’t miss this one - book early. <hr /> NEWS <a href="http://www.intouchcrm.co.uk/app/marketing/surveys/complete/?s=320BFE6223D54377B665041D23&c=0D251CE7E8EC4686B0F5754317">BUSINESS TRENDS SURVEY</a> Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce (WACC) is launching a new Business Support Programme, together with Wiltshire Council, to provide advice, guidance and professional resources to help small business become established and grow.  So that WACC can identify what resources are needed most urgently, an up-to-date picture of the local economy and business trends is essential.  Please spare a few minutes to complete their online questionnaire by clicking on the title link above.  (Closing date is 29th Jan 2012. All answers completely confidential.) <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=242:business-on-the-farm&catid=40:members-news&Itemid=68">LOOKING FOR A LOCAL MEETING/TRAINING ROOM?</a> Local IT support specialists Valley Enterprises have just opened a new training/meeting room for business hire at their location just outside the town at Spittleborough Farm Offices.  Find out more and see some pics of the facilities by clicking on the title link. OLYMPIC & DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS Torchbearers will carry the Olympic flame along our High Street on 23rd May, and the High Street will be closed to traffic on Monday 4th June for a huge community Diamond Jubilee celebration.  More info will follow soon, but for now get these dates in your diary.  Businesses and residents in the town are being asked to get into the spirit of things and decorate their premises with union flags especially for these events. QUESTION FOR THE POLICE? Wiltshire Police and Wiltshire Police Authority (WPA) are holding a live public online chat on Monday 23rd Jan 2012.  Deputy Chief Constable Patrick Greenty, Assistant Chief Constable Mike Veale and WPA Chairman Chris Hoare will be online from 7pm ‘til 8pm to answer questions from the public.  It’s an opportunity for you to submit questions on any subject you want.  To submit a question visit <a href="http://www.wiltshire.police.uk/">wiltshire.police.uk</a> on the evening and follow the instructions. <hr /> MEMBERS ONLY <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk/events.asp?Date=24/02/2012&DateID=504">ANNUAL DINNER DANCE</a> The Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce annual Dinner Dance is on Friday 24th Feb, 7.15pm, in Trowbridge.  Ttickets are £42 which include a 4 course meal and live music.  If any members can offer a prize for the draw which will take place on the evening, please get in touch. HIGH STREET QUESTIONNAIRE The results of our survey will be sent out to members within the next few weeks.  We've had over 100 responses to go through, with lots of comments and suggestions, and we are currently putting together a summary of all information received to accompany the report.   NEW MEMBERS Welcome to Royal Wootton Bassett Mini-Mart which was officially opened by the Mayor during the Christmas/New Year period.  Trading from 7am until 10.00pm daily, the Mini-Mart was even open on Xmas Day and Boxing Day. <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=226:latest-update-from-lyneham-steering-group&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">RAF LYNEHAM – SUPPLIERS WANTED</a> As part of our involvement with the Lyneham Steering Group, we’re compiling a list of member businesses interested in supplying products/services to the RAF site as plans progress with the development of the new Defence Technical Training facilities.  Contact us if you would like to get your business on this list. <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=41&Itemid=61">MEMBER-TO-MEMBER OFFERS</a> For a list of current offers for Chamber members, click on the title link.  Get in touch to join in and add your offer/discount to these. We’d like to wish you a Happy New Year.  The more we can all work together to promote business within our community, the better chance we have of rising to the challenges of the year ahead.  And we’re sure that 2012 will continue to bring plenty of opportunities too.  We’ve got lots of plans for the coming months and hope to welcome many of you along to our networking evening at Costa this month so that we can tell you more.   We’re always keen to hear members’ news to include in future emails and also to submit for consideration for inclusion in in Business, the monthly business supplement of the Gazette & Herald.   <hr /> Follow us on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/wbchamber">twitter.com/wbchamber</a> Support local trading with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BuyBassett">facebook.com/BuyBassett</a> The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

Meet Up & Network at the New Costa - Book Now

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:02:00 GMT

Join us for an evening of informal networking at the new Costa in Borough Fields.   Thursday 26th January 2012 from 6.30pm.   Make new contacts and renew existing ones over a cup of coffee.   Costa are opening in the evening exclusively for our Chamber of Commerce and offering this event FREE OF CHARGE to members (which includes coffee/tea). There will be a charge for non-members.    We are offering spaces to members first - but please book early to reserve your place as we anticipate high demand.   Email secretary@woottonbassett.biz or tel 01793 323103.   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

The Latest Events, News & Member Offers

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 11:36:00 GMT

All the very latest news, events and special offers from your local Chamber of Commerce. This month’s email has a different layout.  Please let us know what you think and/or if there’s anything else you’d like to see in the future.  For more details on any of the articles below, click on the news title or the individual link. <hr /> <p style="margin-bottom:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;border:none;mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .5pt; padding:0cm;mso-padding-alt:0cm 0cm 1.0pt 0cm" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">EVENTS: We’re planning a full diary of events for 2012.  The next ones coming up are:    1.    <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=161:working-from-home-drop-in-for-coffee&catid=1:events&Itemid=41"> Home-workers drop-in – Weds 25th January, between 12.30 and 2pm, The Croft</a> Informal coffee and chat for those who work from home.  Open to all – free of charge to members, £2.00 for non-members. 2.     <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=187:lunch-with-speaker&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">Lunch with speaker – Weds 8th February, 12.30pm, Ganges Restaurant</a> We’ll be joined by speaker Chris Hogarth who will be talking about working with Japanese colleagues.  Different cultures, language, society, etiquette, and manners are all elements to be considered when working with business associates from Japan.  Lunch is just £8.00 for members, £10.00 non-members, which includes an eat-as-much-as-you-like Indian buffet. 3.     Other dates for your diary Further lunches in 2012 are booked for 11th April, 13th June, 12th September and 14th November.  Future speakers include David Mitchell on business branding, and George Croxford, headmaster of Wootton Bassett School, on how businesses can work with the school.  We’re also organising a site visit for members to audio technology company Plantronics, based at Interface Business Park, in March. <hr /> NEWS:   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=229:your-high-street-what-do-you-want&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">HIGH STREET SURVEY</a> With the High Street in the news at present thanks to the Portas Review, we’ve received over 100 responses to our recent local shopping questionnaire.  A full report will soon be on its way to members.  A huge thank you to The Wiltshire Golf & Country Club for their generous voucher for Xmas lunch for 4 which was won by the winner of our questionnaire prize draw, Joy Moseley.     NEW MEMBER Welcome to Naomi at Magicbeadz who is about to launch her new hand-crafted jewellery business.  A great example of someone who came along to one of our homeworkers meetings, found out more about the benefits of being becoming a member, and decided to join us.  See Naomi’s business details at <a href="http://magicbeadz.co.uk/">www.magicbeadz.co.uk</a>.    ‘ROYAL’ MAKEOVER FOR GANGES RESTAURANT Ganges Restaurant has just undergone a redecoration project and also added a range of ‘Royal Specials’ meals to the menu – which you can find on their website at <a href="http://www.ganges.co.uk/">ganges.co.uk</a>.  Don’t forget that Ganges offer a 5% discount off meals to Chamber members. <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=232:a-royal-project-for-our-chamber&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT MEMORABILIA</a> Shopping bags, fridge magnets, pin badges, mugs, tea towels, pens, pencils, window stickers & trolley key-rings are still available from Dandelion, Guelder Rose, the Post Office, Brian Taylor Music, Town Hall Tea Rooms and Motorsave.   SCAM ALERT We’ve been made aware of the following possible scams: <p style="margin-top:0cm;margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:18.0pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt;mso-add-space:auto; text-indent:-18.0pt;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">·         Advertising in the World Trade Register (similar to the Expo-Guide publication which Trading Standards warned of in our November newsletter).  Although mentioning that ‘updating is free of charge,’ read the small print and you will see that you’re entering into a contract which costs 995 euros annually for 3 years! <p style="margin-top:0cm;margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:18.0pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt;mso-add-space:auto; text-indent:-18.0pt;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">·         Fake parcel delivery companies, such as PDS (Parcel Delivery Service), post a card through your door telling you they were unable to deliver your parcel and asking you to call a phone number to arrange delivery.  The number is premium rate and could cost you a lot of money!  If you’re unsure, contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655.   <a href="http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/businessperceptionsurvey.htm">WILTSHIRE BUSINESS PERCEPTION SURVEY</a> The Wiltshire Strategic Economic Partnership promotes the economic wellbeing of Wiltshire.  It’s made up of a board comprising senior business people from the region, Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, JobCentre & representatives from Wiltshire Council.  To help with future planning, please spare a few minutes of your time to complete their online Business Perception Survey (click on the title link).   AND ALSO…. Nothing to do with business this one, but here’s a news story we thought we’d sneak in just for fun.  Dickenson’s Real Deal will be visiting our town on Saturday 28th January, filming at Wootton Bassett School.  If you’re interested in going along with your ‘bobby dazzlers’, click <a href="http://www.itv.com/lifestyle/realdeal/">here </a>for their website with more info. <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0cm 0cm 1.0pt 0cm"> </div> MEMBERS ONLY:   FREE COSTA COFFEE The new Costa in Borough Fields has given us some free coffee vouchers.  We’ve got lots of them and they’re valid until the end of December, so drop us a quick email if you’d like some vouchers delivered to your business.   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=229:your-high-street-what-do-you-want&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">HIGH STREET SURVEY</a> A full report is being prepared and will be sent to you in the near future.   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=41&Itemid=61">MEMBER-TO-MEMBER OFFERS</a> New member Magicbeadz is offering 10% discount for orders over £25.  Click on the title link for a list of other member-to-member special offers.   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=238:futures-bright-for-family-dental-business&catid=40:members-news&Itemid=68">PRESS RELEASE SERVICE</a> Don’t forget we’ll write and distribute your news to the local press free of charge!  Bill Edwards Dental Technician recently took us up on this offer earlier this month and benefited from an article and picture in the Swindon Advertiser.   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=226:latest-update-from-lyneham-steering-group&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">RAF LYNEHAM – SUPPLIERS WANTED</a> As part of our involvement with the Lyneham Steering Group, we’re currently compiling a list of member businesses interested in supplying products/services to the RAF site as plans progress with the development of the new Defence Technical Training facilities.  Contact us if you’re interested in getting onto this list.   EVENTS Don’t forget that all our events are discounted for members. <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0cm 0cm 1.0pt 0cm">   </div> Finally, we’d like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year.  Thank you to all our members for your support and participation – without this our Chamber would not exist.  We hope to continue working with and for all members throughout 2012.   Non-members - if you’d like to get more involved in supporting your local business community, as well as benefiting from the many advantages of being part of your local Chamber of Commerce, click <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=66&Itemid=54">here </a>for more information. <hr /> Follow us at <a href="https://twitter.com/wbchamber">twitter.com/wbchamber</a> Support local trading at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BuyBassett">facebook.com/BuyBassett</a>   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

Still time to book for Xmas Lunch

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:17:00 GMT

Join us to celebrate the festive season with a delicious lunch along with Chippenham, Corsham & Calne Chambers   Tuesday 13th December, Bowood Golf & Country Club 12.15 for 12.30 start Click <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=233:xmas-lunch-at-bowood&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">here </a>to see the menu   The cost to members is £22.50   If you'd like to book please email secretary@woottonbassett.biz - payment required by 2nd December 2011 The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

November News from Wootton Bassett Chamber

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 15:40:00 GMT

All the very latest business news & events, with special offers for our Chamber members. For more details on any of the news stories below, click on the news title or the individual links.   EVENTS Our diary of events for 2012 will be published very soon.  Remaining events for 2011 are:  1.     <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=218:bank-of-england-breakfast&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">Bank of England Breakfast – 24th November, 7.30am, Marsh Farm Hotel</a> A free opportunity for Chamber members to discuss business financial issues directly with the Bank of England’s deputy agent for the South West.  We need 12 attendees from different types of business sectors.  Hot bacon rolls & coffee will be provided. 2.     <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=161:working-from-home-drop-in-for-coffee&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">Home-workers drop-in – 30th November, anytime between 12.30 and 2pm, The Croft</a> A great opportunity for informal coffee and chat for those who work from home.  Open to all –free of charge to members, £2.00 for non-members. 3.     <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=233:xmas-lunch-at-bowood&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">Christmas lunch – Tuesday 13th December, Bowood Golf & Country Club</a> Join us for a group celebration with Calne, Chippenham & Corsham Chambers over a 2 course turkey (or veggie) lunch at Bowood Golf & Country Club on Tues 13th December.  £22.50 for members & £25 for non-members.  Booking and payment required no later than 2nd December (sorry, but we can’t take bookings after this date).   <hr /> HIGH STREET QUESTIONNAIRE We’ve had around 100 responses to our local shopping questionnaire carried out in the High Street and online.  Results are currently being analysed and a full report will be available to members in the near future. <hr /> MEMBER BENEFITS Don’t forget that as a member of Wootton Bassett Chamber, you and your staff are entitled to discounts/special offers from other members as part of the Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce (WACC) Privilege Card – see <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk/privilege-card.asp">www.wessexchambers.org.uk</a>.  WACC are also negotiating further deals, such as free financial healthchecks, sickness income replacement, RAC discounts and EPoS systems.  These will be announced in the near future. <hr /> <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=235:four-new-members-in-october&catid=40:members-news&Itemid=68">NEW MEMBERS</a> A great month for membership in October which saw us welcome 4 new businesses:  Railston shopfitters, Brian Taylor Music, Royal Wootton Bassett Visitor & Tourist Information Centre, and Finance 4 Business Great Western.  For more info on these businesses, including discounts for members, click on the title link. <hr /> RAF LYNEHAM We are continuing to represent local businesses by attending bi-monthly Lyneham Steering Group meetings. Contact us if you have any questions on latest developments with the RAF site. <hr /> <a href="http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/Detail.aspx?ReleaseID=421994&NewsAreaID=2&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bis-news+%28BIS+News%29">REGIONAL GROWTH FUND FOR SMALL BUSINESSES</a> Just announced - small businesses can benefit from funding from the Government.  Click on the title link for the details. <hr /> <a href="http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/9299290.Royal_Wootton_Bassett_Countdown__Grab_mementos_of_this_special_event/">ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT MEMORABILIA</a> As you know, our Chamber organised the supply and sale of official Royal Wootton Bassett souvenirs.  We’ve also been selling cotton shopping bags with the Royal name as part of a separate project promoting our Buy Bassett facebook page.  Huge demand means we have ordered extra supplies.  More bags will shortly be on sale from Dandelion gift shop, with memorabilia items (fridge magnets, pin badges, mugs, tea towels & trolley keyrings) available from Dandelion, Guelder Rose, the Post Office, Brian Taylor Music, Town Hall Tea Rooms and Motorsave. <hr /> <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=223:walk-around-wooooootton-bassett&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">THANK YOU</a> Many thanks to town crier Owen Collier who organised a Ghost Walk for members of our Chamber and town council in October.  This was so popular that he had to run two walks on the same evening!  We all enjoyed a thoroughly entertaining time.  Thanks also to the Museum Steering Group who kindly opened up the town hall especially for us and served drinks and delicious home-made cupcakes. <hr /> <a href="http://www.celebritycharityevents.org/event1.shtml">FREE TICKETS – GALA DINNER</a> We’ve got a handful of free tickets for Chamber members for a charity gala dinner on 17th November at Bowden Hall. Upton St Lenards, Gloucester.  Raising funds for Help for Heroes, guests include our Mayor, along with sportsmen Gavin Hastings, Andy Nicol, David Syd Lawrence and Glenn Catley.  If you’re interested get in touch quickly. <hr /> WANTED Does anyone have a cash till they no longer require?  A local retailer is looking for one.  Contact us if you can help. <hr /> WARNING FROM TRADING STANDARDS We’ve received the following warning regarding advertising in Expo-Guide, an online database of trade shows and events - Invitations are sent out offering businesses a free listing; HOWEVER what you will actually be signing up for is a 3 year contract at an approximate cost of £1,100 per year!  Trading Standards advice is to steer clear of this publication. <hr /> XMAS LIGHTS & SHOPPING EVENING Friday 2nd December, from 6pm.  Falklands veteran Simon Weston will be switching on the lights.  There will also be real reindeer again this year, along with a carol service, drum workshop, face painting, fire eaters, jazz player & much, much more.  And we are hoping plenty of retailers will be opening late to welcome lots of visitors. <hr />   Chamber members - keep sending us your latest news to include in future emails and also to submit for consideration for inclusion in Wessex in Business, the monthly business supplement to the Gazette & Herald.   Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/wbchamber Support local trading with facebook.com/BuyBassett   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

Two events in two weeks - hope you can join us.

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:28:00 GMT

Like to meet up with others over coffee and cakes? Weds 26th October, anytime between 12.30 & 2pm, at the Croft (next to St Bartholomew's church) All welcome to come along to our informal get-together where, this month, we will be selling cakes, coffees and teas to raise funds for MacMillan's World’s Biggest Coffee Morning fund.  Stay as long as you like, or just pop in for a quick catch up with other people from around our business community.  Eat as many delicious home-made cakes as you can, or maybe take some back to the office to share.  No need to pre-book - just turn up and join us.   Enjoy networking and/or art?  Keen to support the next generation of business people? Thursday 3rd November, anytime between 6 & 8pm, at the Museum (town hall) Come along and meet with other local businesses whilst also enjoying an exhibition and sale of student art. Our Chamber has been working with year 11 Wootton Bassett School students who are raising funds for a new business initiative.  This is a unique opportunity to network informally amongst a fabulous display of all types of artwork - and also to show your support for the students in their project. Just £5.00 a ticket, which includes drinks and nibbles.  Pre-book at <a href="mailto:secretary@woottonbassett.biz">secretary@woottonbassett.biz</a> or call 01793 323103. Click <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=227:working-with-wootton-bassett-school-students&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">here </a>for more info on the Art event.   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

Invitation - Exclusive Video Preview Evening

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:25:00 GMT

Wootton Bassett Rocks! Charity Single and Video - Exclusive Preview Evening Thursday 13th October, Empire Cinema, Greenbridge (video showing at intervals between 7 and 9.30pm)   Dear Chamber member By way of a ‘Thank you’ for the Chamber’s support for this project, we have been asked to pass on an invitation to the exclusive cinema preview of the Wootton Bassett Rocks! Charity video to our members.   During the evening, videos will be shown from each of the four charities which will benefit from money raised from this project, plus a look behind the scenes and the build-up, and then the preview of the new single itself "Wake Me Up When September Ends!”, which was filmed in Wootton Bassett High St on 18th September 2011.   If you’d like to book seats, please email <a target="_blank" href="mailto:wbcsvproject@gmail.com">wbcsvproject@gmail.com</a> to confirm the number required and a preferred performance time.   The invitation is attached.  (Please note small print at bottom of the invitation.)    For photos of filming day see <a target="_blank" href="http://www.wbcharitysingle.co.uk/">www.wbcharitysingle.co.uk</a>   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

It's all happening in October! Latest News from your Chamber

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:19:00 GMT

All the very latest news, events and offers from Wootton Bassett Chamber of Commerce. For more details on any of the stories below, click on the news title or the individual links.   <hr /> EVENTS  1.     Committee Meeting – Tues 11th October These are always on the second Tuesday of each month at The Croft (in the grounds of St Bartholomew’s church) from 5.45pm (the meetings are really informal & pizza is provided for those who get peckish!)  All welcome to come along, share ideas and get involved. 2.     <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=161:working-from-home-drop-in-for-coffee&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">Home-workers drop-in – 26th October, anytime between 12.30 and 2pm, The Croft</a> Drop in for informal coffee and chat.  We’ll be selling drinks and cakes at this event to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support, as part of their Worlds’ Biggest Coffee morning.  All welcome – homeworkers or not! 3.     <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=218:bank-of-england-breakfast&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">Bank of England Breakfast – 24th November, 7.30am, Marsh Farm Hotel</a> Book now for this free opportunity for Chamber members to discuss financial issues affecting business directly with the Bank of England’s deputy agent for the South West.  We need around 12 attendees from all different types of business sectors. 4.     Christmas lunch – Tuesday 13th December, Bowood Golf & Country Club This year we’re having a joint celebration with Calne, Chippenham & Corsham Chambers over a two course turkey (or veggie) lunch at Bowood Golf & Country Club on Tues 13th December.  The cost is £22.50 for members & £25 for non-members.  Booking and payment required by 2nd December.    Other Events:   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=223:walk-around-wooooootton-bassett&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">GHOST WALK</a> We are full to capacity the Ghost Walk on Thurs 13th October – so much so that we are now holding two walks during the evening!  Numbers have had to be limited to ensure the event can run smoothly and safely.  Thanks to Owen Collier who is running this exclusively for Chamber and town council members.  Look out for a write-up on our website and in local press after the event.   <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=227:working-with-wootton-bassett-school-students&catid=1:events&Itemid=41">STUDENTS’ ART EXHIBITION</a> We are working with WB School year 11 students who are organising an art exhibition as part of a business initiative on Thursday 3rd November at the museum in the town hall.  Come along and support them at an evening ticket event where you can view some fantastic art (which you can also buy!), have a glass of wine, and socialise/informally network.  See the title link for full details.   SITE VISIT - MARSHFIELD FARM A tour of the ice cream factory, with free samples to try and the chance to buy any of the 26 flavours at factory prices!  Also includes a finger buffet lunch, to include ice cream.  Cost is £10.50 for members, £12.50 non-members, and can be booked through Corsham Chamber on <a href="mailto:peteathomas@msn.com">peteathomas@msn.com</a>. <hr /> <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=229:your-high-street-what-do-you-want&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">HIGH STREET QUESTIONNAIRE</a> We’ll be by the town hall on Saturday 8th and Wednesday 12th October asking people to complete a short questionnaire on what they want from the High Street.  We hope that as many people as possible will stop and answer our questions, to help give us a good idea of what shoppers are looking for.  Please do your bit for your local town and stop and see us – you could win Sunday lunch for 4 at The Wiltshire Golf & Country Club.  Or complete our survey online - click on the title link.   <hr /> <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=226:latest-update-from-lyneham-steering-group&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">RAF LYNEHAM</a> We are continuing to represent local businesses by attending bi-monthly Lyneham Steering Group meetings. Click on the title link for an update on plans for the site from the latest meeting on 15th September.   <hr /> <a href="http://www.woottonbassett.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=224:is-your-business-ready-for-october-16th&catid=36:news-latest&Itemid=50">ROYAL COMMEMORATIVE EVENT & MEMORABILIA</a> Members will have received our email with the latest update on organization for this event, including security and parking.  And there’s still time to buy some memorabilia, although you’ll need to be quick as the items are selling out fast!  They’ll be on sale from the 16th at Dandelion, Guelder Rose, Church Croft, Occasions, Town Hall Tea Rooms, Brian Taylor Music & others.  Contact us now at <a href="mailto:secretary@woottonbassett.biz">secretary@woottonbassett.biz</a> for details.   <hr /> BE AWARE We have been alerted to possible advertisement scammers targeting new businesses in this area.  They are selling advertising space in an annual Wiltshire Police publication – but the police have informed us that there is no such thing!  Please be aware.   <hr /> Chamber members - keep sending us your latest news to include in future emails and also to submit for consideration for inclusion in Wessex in Business, the monthly business supplement to the Gazette & Herald.    Follow us on Twitter at <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/wbchamber">twitter.com/wbchamber</a> Support local trading with our Facebook page -<a href="http://www.facebook.com/BuyBassett"> facebook.com/BuyBassett</a>   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

Royal Commemorative Event, 16th October - Update

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:01:00 GMT

Dear Chamber member  As the Royal Commemorative event of 16th October gets closer, we thought we’d give you an update on what will be happening.  Please see the following details which we have obtained from recent discussions with the town council and police: <ul> <li>Security is of paramount importance.  Police activity will increase in the town centre from around Weds 12th October, with security checks.  There will be over 200 police officers working on the event itself, with continual checks throughout the day.  Sgt Alvis of Wiltshire Police has asked us if any businesses have any overwhelming concerns regarding the event – if so, please contact them directly or let us know of anything to be passed on. </li> <li>For security reasons, timings of the ceremony cannot be confirmed until nearer the time, but this is expected to take place sometime after midday.  A press release will be issued shortly which will provide more specific information.  The official ceremony is expected to last for around an hour, but significant numbers of visitors are anticipated to start arriving from early in the day.   </li> <li>Street bunting will start being put up from Thursday 13th Oct.  Retailers are also asked to join in and decorate their shop windows accordingly.  </li> <li>The High Street will be closed from 8am ‘til 6pm on the day - from the mini roundabout at the top along to the crossroads junction of High Street/Whitehill Lane/New Road.    </li> <li>Cars in the High Street will be leafleted on 15th October informing them to be moved by the next day.  Any cars remaining after 6-8am (time to be confirmed by police) on 16th will be towed away. </li> <li>The temporary Woodshaw road closure will be re-opened for the weekend to ease traffic. </li> <li>Borough Fields car park will be for permit holders only on the day (very limited number of permits available from town council).  However, wherever possible you are urged to make alternative travel/parking arrangements.  </li> <li>A park and ride facility will be available from Lydiard Park, giving a maximum capacity of 3,500 parking spaces for the event altogether. </li> <li>Bollards will line the diversion route around the High St, with traffic wardens on duty to ensure no illegal parking. </li> <li>There will be at least 3 big screens in the High Street showing videos and the official ceremony. </li> <li>10,000 official programmes are being printed for sale.  Official Royal Wootton Bassett memorabilia/souvenirs will also be on sale in various local retailers, including Dandelion, Church Croft, Brian Taylor Music, Guelder Rose, the Post Office, Occasions & Town Hall Tea Rooms.  Hand-held Union flags will also be available. </li> <li>An exhibition of gifts/memorabilia given to the town will open at the library from Weds or Thurs 13/14th October.  See press for date confirmation soon. </li> <li>For the latest information nearer the day, see the town council website at <a target="_blank" href="http://woottonbassett.gov.uk/">woottonbassett.gov.uk</a>.</li> </ul> The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08

Charity Music Video - Sponsorship Opportunities

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:54:00 GMT

On Sunday 11th September a music video was filmed in our High Street to accompany the soon-to-be-released Wootton Bassett Charity Single.   This is a huge and exciting project, involving many organisations and individuals from the local community who have come together to help raise money for military charities.   With last minute editing and cover design currently underway, the video will be screened at a cinema premiere on 13th October, becoming available to buy/download shortly afterwards.      Local sponsors are now urgently required!   Time is of the essence with this project, so if you’d like to know more about sponsorship opportunities please contact <a href="mailto:wbcsvproject@gmail.com">wbcsvproject@gmail.com</a> as soon as possible.   For more info see <a title="http://www.wbcharitysingle.co.uk/" target="_blank" href="http://www.wbcharitysingle.co.uk/">www.wbcharitysingle.co.uk</a>.   The Wootton Bassett Chamber is a member of the <a href="http://www.wessexchambers.org.uk target="_blank">Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce</a> Registered in England No. 02911453 VAT Reg. No. 639 4392 08