Durrington Town Council

31/05/2026

HEALTH ADVISORY

The council have been informed that children have become sick after swimming in the River Avon in and around Durrington. This follows on from recent reports of a similar occurrence at West Amesbury. The cause of the problem is most likely a naturally occurring algal bloom, but is much enhanced and worsened by pollutants in the river from sewage treatment plants, and run-off from roads, farms and building projects. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and ear infections. The council strongly advises against swimming in the river. Should your child show any of these symptoms, please consult your GP as soon as possible. Note: algal blooms can cause sickness in pets too, so dogs that have been in the river may become affected.

28/05/2026

Over the next four months the Council has arranged with District Sports to provide free youth events in the recreation ground. All school aged children and young people are welcome. Come along, bring a drink and a hat if its hot and join in the fun, we look forward to seeing you there.

22/05/2026

Dont forget next week on Wednesday from 5pm to 7pm there is lots of fun to be had at the Recreation Ground!

19/05/2026

The new community passes are here! If you fancy a day out look no further. The office is open from 10am to midday from Tuesday to Friday. Come and book a pass, see details below.

13/05/2026

✨ For Durrington and Larkhill school age children and young people. Come along for 2 hours of FREE fun at the Recreation Ground on 27th May from 5pm! and enjoy a great evening outdoors 🎉

06/05/2026

24/04/2026

Just a reminder that next week Bulford Road and Church Street will be closed between 9 am and 4pm from Wednesday the 29th April until the 6th of May. There will be access for residents.
From the 7th May to 20th May there will be traffic lights near Maples.
Please see the Map below.
Any queries please contact Highways at Wiltshire Council. We will update when we receive any further details.

21/04/2026

From Wiltshire Police

We are seeing an increase in reports of a scam targeting people selling vehicles privately through sites such as AutoTrader, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. This scam is often referred to as the “Dirty Oil” scam and can lead to sellers being pressured into selling their car for far less than it’s worth.
How the Scam Works
The Set Up
Fraudsters pose as genuine buyers and arrange to view a privately advertised vehicle. They often arrive in pairs and act very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about cars.
The Distraction
While one individual distracts the seller (for example by asking to see paperwork, the boot, or discussing a test drive), the other secretly sabotages the vehicle. This is typically done by:
• Pouring oil into the coolant reservoir
• Pouring oil onto hot engine components or the exhaust/tailpipe
The “Engine Failure”
Soon after, the engine appears to fail dramatically, producing thick white or blue smoke. The scammers claim the engine is “blown” or that the car needs a major and costly repair.
The Pressure Sale
They then offer a very low amount (often 30% or less of the asking price), claiming they are doing the seller a favour by “taking it off your hands as scrap”. The goal is to pressure the seller into a quick, panicked decision.
Warning signs to watch for
• Buyers insist on coming in pairs
• One person distracts you while the other stays near the engine bay
• Sudden catastrophic “engine failure” during or immediately after a short test drive
• Aggressive pressure to accept a low offer on the spot
• Claims that repairs will cost “thousands” without any proper inspection
How to protect yourself
Never leave buyers alone with your vehicle
Keep the car in sight at all times. Be especially watchful if the bonnet is opened.
Have someone with you
A friend or family member present makes distractions much harder.
Check before and after viewings
• Inspect the coolant reservoir for oily residue or dark contamination
• Look for fresh oil around the engine bay or exhaust
• If possible, take photos of the engine bay and coolant tank before viewings
Be sceptical of sudden failures
A well maintained car does not usually suffer dramatic engine failure out of nowhere. Heavy smoke appearing suddenly is a major red flag.
Trust your instincts
If something feels wrong, stop the viewing immediately.
If you suspect a scam
• Refuse the sale and ask the individuals to leave
• If they refuse to leave or become threatening, call 999
• If the suspects have already left, report the incident to Report Fraud
Share this warning
Please share this message with friends, family, and neighbours – especially anyone selling a car privately. Awareness is the best defence against this type of fraud.