The Conduit Magazine - February 2020 by Shelleys the Printers Ltd

Crossing counties, look inside for info on the best events and activities in West Dorset and South Somerset

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INSIDE THIS MONTH Issue 228 February 2020

Events and Activities in your area Discover the Alternative Indian A Vintnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tale

Lynne Franks: A different type of love Test Driving the VW Crafter

Serving Bruton, Castle Cary, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Langport, Sherborne, Somerton, Wincanton, Yeovil & Surrounding Villages www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

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From the Editor

This month’s glorious cover showcasing Yeovil’s Amateur Operatic Society’s new production of The Sound of Music made me think of spring (despite the snow-capped mountains!) and it is always heartening to know that by the end of February the days are getting longer as our evenings grow lighter. However for anyone who is feeling the winter gloom, read our insightful hypnotherapist’s column about dealing with emotional clutter and also see what Lynne Franks has to say on the importance of learning to love. Speaking of love, who doesn’t enjoy discovering a new restaurant, and particularly when it is something a bit different. This month I went along to the Alternative Indian restaurant in West Coker and discovered some really delicious cuisine thanks to owner and chef Khrish Preston who brings a fresh perspective to Indian cooking. She has put together a great offer for Conduit readers so do go along and see if you enjoy the food as much as I did. See you next month!

Contents

Find out what’s going on in your neck of the woods. A complete guide to events and activities near you.

LIFESTYLE p27 Lynne Franks looks at the importance of love

ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES p14

ARTS p28

All the upcoming events from the local Arts scene

Introducing Sherborne’s café with antiques

Enjoy a trip on the Watercress Line!

ASSISTANT EDITOR Julie Locke

MARCH DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 7 February Advertisements: MONDAY, 10 February

WHAT’S ON p4

TRAVEL p22

EDITOR & ADVERTISING Jane Adkins

FOOD & DRINK p39 Who is spicing up West Coker?

Visit our website for more Events, Services and Classifieds www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk Unit 4, Barton View Business Park, Sheeplands Lane, Sherborne DT9 4FW | 01935 424724 | info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk © The publisher is The Conduit Magazine Limited. The layout, format, design and all other aspects of this magazine are an original idea and therefore copyright of the publisher. No part of the contents may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission in writing. Whilst every care is taken in compiling the contents of this magazine, the proprietor assumes no responsibility for mistakes and omissions. The views of our contributors is not necessarily the view of the publisher.

AT THE OCTAGON THEATRE The Sound of Music all began with the true story of the world-famous Trapp Family Singers and Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, which inspired Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse to create a Broadway musical in 1959. The show begins in Salzburg in 1938, where Maria is a free-spirited young postulant at Nonnberg Abbey. The Mother Abbess, believing Maria would be happier outside the abbey, sends her to the villa of naval officer Captain Georg von Trapp to be governess to his seven children. The plot evolves against a background of their beloved Austria gradually being overcome by the Third Reich at the start of WWII, but.... can they all escape to freedom? The unforgettable score features some of the most memorable songs ever performed on stage, including Edelweiss, My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry Mountain, So Long, Farewell and of course, the title song, The Sound of Music. Playing the principal role of Maria is the golden-voiced Sarah Andrew, who joined YAOS in 2017, playing Missy Hart in 9 to 5. Sarah is a multi–talented performer, with piano, cornet, ballet, dance, and a professional cabaret singer amongst her skills. She was a fabulous Sweet Charity in Cary Amateur Theatre Society’s production in 2019, receiving a David Beech nomination for best female lead. In the role of Captain Von Trapp, we welcome back Ben Woof, whose first principal role with YAOS was in Crazy for You in 2002. He followed this up with his favourite part as Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar in 2003. His most recent success was at Crewkerne, last year, where he had the audience in tears of laughter as King Arthur in Spamalot. The Hills will be Alive with The Sound of Music at the Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, from 11 to 21 March with two Saturday matinees. You had better hurry and get tickets; they are selling fast!

WHAT’S ON

Snowdrop ‘Margery Fish’

COMPETITION

T J US TE S U E IN 4 M OM TH F R A303 H

T OU AT S ERTON H T E P

Visit gardening icon Margery Fish’s beautiful cottage garden to enjoy the: * Snowdrop Ditch * Snowdrop displays * Sculptures for sale * Snowdrops to buy * Snowdrop tours * Snowdrop photography exhibition

Festival of Snowdrops 1st to 29th February

London Military Band will be performing a stunning new show as a tribute to our armed forces and veterans at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton on Saturday 21 March. Music will include traditional marches, film themes, songs and classical favourites including Radetzky March, Danny Boy, The Dambusters Theme, Rule Britannia, Fantasia on British Sea Songs and much more! Joined by guest singer Emily Dankworth who will be bringing a touch of Jazz to the evening with classic standards including Fly Me To The Moon and Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man - a wonderful evening of music is guaranteed! Tickets £21/£20.

WIN:

One pair of standard tickets to see The London Military Band at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton on Saturday 21 March at 7.30pm.

To enter just answer the following question: Name the guest singer bringing a touch of jazz to the evening. Send answers by Monday 17 February with your name and contact details and the subject heading “London Military Band” competition to info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk or post it to the NEW address on p3. Good luck!

DANCE TO THE MUSIC With ex-Strictly professional Kristina Rihanoff and hosted by Jake Quickenden Tuesday 4th February, 7.30pm Tickets £28/£26, VIP £45 (includes Meet & Greet)

TANGLE THEATRE – VOLPONE (Artsreach) A condensed adaptation of Ben Jonson’s original text Friday 6th March, 7.30pm Tickets £10/£7/£30 family. Age 13+

ICONS – THE LEGENDARY DIVAS The hits of Tina, Aretha, Whitney, Dusty, Cher, Barbra & many more. Friday 7th February, 7.30pm Tickets £18.50/£16.50

PROF ROBERT WINSTON What Makes Us Happy? Reading The Human Mind Thursday 12th March, 7.30pm Tickets £18/£17/£10 student

TUTANKHAMUN – THE BOY KING Lecture by Anthony Russell Thursday 27th February, 7.30pm Tickets £10/£6 student

dS:uK DIRE STRAITS The Ultimate Dire Straits experience Friday 20th March, 7.30pm Tickets £18.00

BEYOND THE BARRICADE Songs from the West End and Broadway Saturday 29th February, 7.30pm Tickets £23/£22

TOTAL POP PARTY SHOW – MATINEE! Music from Little Mix, Taylor Swift, Jonas Brothers & more Saturday 4th April, 3.00pm Tickets £15/£12/£50 family

Old Market Hill, Sturminster Newton DT10 1FH Tel: 01258 475137 Web: www.stur-exchange.co.uk Email: info@stur-exchange.co.uk 5

What’s On WHAT’S ON

Coffee Morning CASTLE CARY On Saturday 25 January from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Caryford Hall, there is an Open to All Coffee Morning. After the hard work of fundraising, this is an opportunity to show off the newly refurbished facilities, which includes a brand new kitchen. Bacon butties will be served! SANDFORD ORCAS On Saturday 9 February from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at Sandford Orcas Village Hall, there is the Village Café. Enjoy a warm welcome, coffee and tea, squash, cakes and biscuits, a chat and a catch-up on local news. All funds raised will be used in aid of the Village Hall. SOUTH PETHERTON Every last Wednesday of the month from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at The David Hall, there is a Coffee Morning. Pop in for a cup of real coffee and a chat. Look around the book and bric-a-brac stalls and more often than not, listen to some live music. Free entry. WEST CAMEL Every Thursday from 9.15am to 11.45am at The Davis Hall, there is a coffee morning. Come for coffee and cakes, Post Office, books, cards, a selection from The West Camel Bakery plus eggs and local produce as available. Free entry.

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Early Listing SHERBORNE On Sunday 1 March at 9.00am at Sherborne Sports Centre is the annual 10K 2020. Sign up by 1 February to take advantage of the early bird offer - only £12! Otherwise come along at 9.00am on the day. Sign up at www.sherbornesports. co.uk/10K or email tessa. kelly@sherborne.org. On Sunday 8 March at 2.15pm in The Butterfly Room, Walled Garden Restaurant, at Castle Garden Centre, join Blue Badge Guide, Paul, for a ‘Winter Warmer’ slide show and talk entitled ‘Beyond the Seen’. Paul explores the links between Sherborne and the UNESCO Jurassic Coast. £5 per person. For further information, visit www. sherbornewalks.co.uk, phone 07989 453966 or email info@ sherbornewalks.co.uk. On Friday 13 March at 7.30pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, there is a talk about the current issues and players in the Middle East conflicts. The speaker is Richard Spencer, Middle East Correspondent for The Times. A fund-raising event for Sherborne Douzelage.

Food ALWESTON On Saturday 15 February from 9.00am to 11.00am at Alweston Village Hall, there is a Community Big Butty Breakfast. Children’s activity table. Cards, preserves and cakes. Food Bank Collection at the hall for anyone wishing to contribute. This is a community event organised by Folke Church. CORTON DENHAM On Sunday 26 January at 7.00pm at The Queens Arms, celebrate Burns Night with a three-course meal, a wee dram, a piper and the ‘Address to a Haggis’. £40

Contact: Julie Locke

/theconduitmagazine

E: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk

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per person. To book, phone 01963 220317, email relax@ thequeensarms.com or visit www.thequeensarms.com. On Friday 14 February at The Queens Arms, celebrate Valentine’s Day with a Valentine’s Night room package - Dinner, Bed & Breakfast from £200 per room. To book, phone 01963 220317, email relax@ thequeensarms.com or visit www.thequeensarms.com.

CREWKERNE On Saturday 25 January from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, come and enjoy a Big Breakfast. Egg, sausage, bacon, tomato or beans, and tea or coffee. Vegetarian options available. From £4.50. Extras 50p each, including black pudding, mushrooms and hash browns. For information phone 01460 74340. On Saturday 25 January at 7.00pm at Haselbury Mill, Haselbury Plucknett, enjoy Burns Night in The Lakeside Restaurant. Three-course traditional Burns supper and entertainment in honour of Scotland’s famous bard. £35 per person including a whisky toast. To reserve, contact 01460 77095. On Friday 7 February at 12.30pm at the Henhayes Centre, it’s Fish & Chips Friday! Battered Cod with chips, mushy peas and tartar sauce followed by a fruity dessert. Only £8.75 (members £6.50). Lunch served at 12.30pm. Booking essential by 10.30am. To book, phone 01460 74340. On Friday 21 February at 12.30pm at the Henhayes Centre, it is the Chef’s Special Lunch. Fruit juice on arrival, roast beef followed by sticky toffee pudding with tea or coffee and a chocolate to finish. Only £9.50 (members £8.00). Lunch served at 12.30pm. Booking essential by 10.30am. To book, phone 01460 74340. On Saturday 29 February from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, come and enjoy a Big Breakfast. Egg, sausage, bacon, tomato

or beans, and tea or coffee. Vegetarian options available. From £4.50. Extras 50p each, including black pudding, mushrooms and hash browns. For information phone 01460 74340. SANDFORD ORCAS Every Thursday from 12.00 noon at The Mitre Inn, there is a Senior Citizens two-course lunch for £11.50. Contact Allen or Cheryl on 01963 220271. WINCANTON On Friday 24 January from 6.30pm to 9.00pm at The SEED Café, there is a women’s gathering and detox supper with special guest Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Nutritionist and Detox Specialist Ursula Peer. Enjoy a delicious TCM Detox supper full of vibrant organic goodness prepared by Ursula herself. Free from gluten, animal products, refined sugar or salt, and additives. Tickets £25 includes supper. To book, phone 01963 33886 or email hello@hubatno3.com.

Market BRADFORD ABBAS On Saturday 1 February at 2.00pm at Bradford Abbas Village Hall, there is a WI jumble sale. Admission 50p. CASTLE CARY Every Tuesday from 8.30am to 2.00pm at the Market House, there is a weekly market. Fruit, vegetables, bread, fish, cheese, preserves, baked goods, gluten free options, seasonal plants and other giftware available. CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 9.00am to 1.00pm outside Henhayes Centre is a Farmers’ Market. It has a comprehensive selection of around 16 stalls, offering preserves, veg and fruit, plants, fruit juice, homemade bakes, cheeses, pork products, water buffalo products, and much more. For further information, visit www. somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk. MARTOCK On Saturday 8 February from 10.00am to

WHAT’S ON

1.00pm at the Moorland’s Shopping Precinct is Martock Farmers Market, with around 16 stands ranging from plants, crafts to cheese and local produce. For a table or further information, phone Fergus on 01935 822202. MILBORNE PORT Every first Sunday from 11.00am to 2.00pm at The Queens Head, there is a Farmers’ Market. This market is held in the skittle alley and milk parlour of the pub. All produce is hand-made or locally home-grown. Hot and cold drinks are available as well as hot and cold food. Free parking. if interested in a stall or need more information, contact Mandy on 07717 117744. SHERBORNE Every third Friday from 9.00am to 1.00pm at Cheap Street, there is a Farmers’ Market. Average 30 stalls. For more information, visit www.visit-dorset.com/ food-and-drink/farmersmarkets. SOMERTON Every Saturday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon at The Unicorn Hotel skittle alley is the Wessex Country Market. This market offers a wide variety of artisan produce. All baked goods are homemade and ingredients locally sourced. There are jams, marmalades, chutney and pickle unique to this market. Locally sourced butter, cheese, meat and fresh vegetables in season. The craft ladies offer an amazing variety of items to suit all occasions. WINCANTON Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Market Place is the Wincanton Seed Market. For further information or to book a stall, contact Market Organiser Elizabeth Ralph at wincantonseedmarket@gmail. com or visit Wincanton Seed Market on Facebook.

Quiz MISTERTON On Friday 31 January at 7.00pm at Misterton Village Hall, there will be a quiz to raise funds for a defibrillator for Silver Street in Misterton. Teams maximum 6 people, individuals welcome. £8 per person (hot supper included). Prizes, raffle and 50/50. For information and

tickets, contact Phil on 01460 73815. YETMINSTER On Tuesday 28 January at 7.00pm at The White Hart, there is a Quiz night. £5 entry per person to include a snack meal. Teams of no more than 6. Bookings essential. For information, phone 01935 872338 or email TheTeam@ YetminsterWhiteHart.pub.

Social MARTOCK Every third Friday from 11.00am to 12.30pm at Swallowfields, Mow Barton, is a Memory Café. A place to talk about old memories and make some new ones. SHERBORNE On Friday 7 February at 11.30am at Cheap Street Church, there is a Snowdrop Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving hosted by Sherborne Churches Together, also joined by Marie Curie, Weldmar Hospicecare, Yeatman Hospital and Cruse who work together to support those who have been bereaved at any time. Refreshments available. All are welcome. For information, contact Rev’d Lesley McCreadie at revdlesley@aol.com or on 01963 210548. On Friday 28 February at 7.00pm at Raleigh Hall, there is a Sherborne Wine Interest Group (SWIG) meeting, including dinner and wine tasting. Well-known wine guide, Lits Phillipou, will talk about ‘Wines from the Loire Valley’. The meal costs £40 per person for three courses and eight wines. Booking required. To book, contact the Secretary Adrian Foss on adrian.foss57@outlook.com. For further information, email julianhalsby@gmail.com.

Every Tuesday during term time from 10.00am to 11.45am at the Digby Memorial Church Hall, it is Tuesday Toddlers. This group, originally started in 1985 by The Mothers Union and supported by Sherborne Churches Together, is a popular place for mothers and babies to meet, play and exchange tips on parenthood. Recently renamed Tuesday Toddlers, it is still run by volunteers, mostly from the

local churches and a few parents and grandparents. To keep this valuable group alive, Tuesday Toddlers are seeking helpers and a new leader. If you have a valid DBS certificate, are under 70 (for insurance reasons), and can spare a few hours of a Tuesday morning, then please pop in to introduce yourself. Maybe you are a crafting goddess, take joy in preparing food, enjoy preparing/packing away toys? Maybe you just like to help? Every Tuesday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon and 2.00pm to 4.00pm (two groups) in the Wingfield Room, Digby Hall, go along to Art For Memory. Free friendly art class for people experiencing mild to moderate memory loss. Funded by the National Lottery, organised by ArtsLink Fizz. Booking essential. Contact Kate on 01935 815899 or text 07483 338969 or email artslinkfizz@ gmail.com.

Every Thursday from 9.30am to 11.30am at St Pauls Church Hall or West End Hall (two groups) join in with Art for Parents. Free friendly art class for parents and carers of primary school age children. Funded by the National Lottery, organised by ArtsLink Fizz. Booking essential. Contact Kate on 01935 815899 or text 07483 338969 or email artslinkfizz@ gmail.com. Every first Thursday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Richmond Green Community Room, the Dorset Blind Association hosts a social club for people with a visual impairment in Sherborne. It’s an opportunity get out of the house, sit and talk with others, share a joke and a coffee among friends. Most club meetings offer entertainment and occasional outings. Transport provided. For more information phone Judy on 07748 212009 or

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WHAT’S ON

Sherborne Snowdrop Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving Marie Curie, Weldmar Hospicecare, the Yeatman Hospital and Cruse will join together again in 2020 for the Snowdrop Service. This is a marvellous example of organisations working together to support those who have been bereaved at any time. The snowdrop is a symbol of hope after a long cold winter and many people who attend gain comfort from knowing that others are going through a similar journey. Members of staff from each organisation will take part in the service which will be followed by refreshments. The Snowdrop Service, is hosted by Sherborne Churches Together and will be held on Friday 7 February at 11.30 at Cheap Street Church, Sherborne DT9 3BJ. All are welcome. Contact: Rev’d. Lesley McCreadie for further information revdlesley@aol.com 01963 210548 01202 712865. No meeting in January.

information phone Anne on 01747 851260.

Every third Thursday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Richmond Green Community Room, the Dorset Blind Association hosts a handicraft club for people with a visual impairment in Sherborne. It’s an opportunity get out of the house, sit and talk with others, share a joke and a coffee among friends. Transport provided. For more information phone Judy on 07748 212009 or 01202 712865. No meeting in January.

YEOVIL On Friday 28 February from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at The GateWay (Yeovil Community Church), come along and sing for fun at the first session of The Yeovil Good Afternoon Choir. There is no charge for attending the first rehearsal. The choir will meet every Friday afternoon. Choir rehearsals are in four terms of 10 weeks and members pay per term £4.50 per session, this covers all room and piano hire, music, admin and musician fees. For further information, call 01761 472468 or visit www. goodafternoonchoir.org.

Every Thursday from 2.30pm to 4.00pm at Tinney’s Lane Youth and Community Centre join in with Parkinson’s Dance. Free friendly class for people who are experiencing the challenges of living with Parkinson’s Disease. Funded by the National Lottery, organised by ArtsLink Fizz. Booking essential. Contact Kate on 01935 815899 or text 07483 338969 or email artslinkfizz@gmail.com.

SOMERTON On Wednesday 22 January from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at West Street Church, join in Scottish Country Dancing U3A classes for beginners. For more information, contact Liz Beckinsale on 01935 826181 or at ealbeckinsale@btinternet. com. WINCANTON Every Thursday from 2.00pm to 4.30pm at Wincanton Memorial Hall, come and enjoy an afternoon of Sequence Dancing. Entry £3. For more 8

Every Tuesday from 7.00pm to 8.30pm at Westlands Sports Centre, Yeovil Table Tennis Club has a social Table Tennis Evening. Play for fun, no need to sign up. Opportunities to join the club and play competitively if desired. Entry £4. Every Wednesday from 7.30pm to 10.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, there is Ballroom, Latin and Sequence Dance. All abilities. Different dance host each week, playing a variety of traditional and modern dance tracks. Smart casual dress. Over 18s only. Non-members £8.50 on the door. For more information phone 01935 825939 or westlandballroom@ yahoo.com. Every Saturday at 7.30pm at the Holy Trinity Church Hall, there is a Whist Drive. Enquiries 01935 862325.

Sport CHARD Every Wednesday from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at Holyrood Academy, Zembard Lane, there is Walking Netball. This is a slowed down version of the game of netball, designed for anyone looking to exercise in a relaxed, supportive and friendly environment. Every session contains a gentle warm up and suitable for all ages and abilities. Entry £4 a session. For more information phone 07738 696362 and visit www. englandnetball.co.uk/walkingnetball. CREWKERNE Every Tuesday from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at Crewkerne Sports Centre, join in the weekly Walking Netball sessions. For all ages and abilities. All sessions contain a gentle warm up. No need to book. First session free then £3.50 per session.

Talk CASTLE CARY On Friday 24 January at 7.30pm in North Barrow Village Hall, near Castle Cary, legendary explorer Colonel John Blashford-Snell CBE will present an illustrated talk on ‘A Life of Adventure’. From the birth of white-water rafting, over mountains and deserts, through jungle and swamp and beneath the sea, JBS takes his audience through his adventurous life. A very popular, amusing and fast-moving presentation with dramatic film and amazing archival slides, suitable for audiences of all ages. Tickets £25 to include a welcome drink and three-course meal. To book, contact Peter Jackson at graypub@btinternet. com or Sarah Jane Lewis at sjanelewis@yahoo.co.uk or on 07817 624935. Funds raised go to the Six Pilgrims Benefice. On Tuesday 4 February at 8.00pm at Caryford Hall, there will be a Somerset Wildlife Trust talk about ‘Britain’s Ancient Forest - Legacy and Lore’. Refreshments from 7.30pm. Admission £3, children free. CHARLTON Every second and fourth Tuesday at 7.30pm

at the New Remembrance Hall in Charlton, near Shaftesbury, the Blackmore Vale Amateur Radio Society has a meeting. Visitors welcome. For more information visit www.bvars. org.uk. EAST COKER On Thursday 13 February at 7.30pm at East Coker Hall, the Gardening Club hosts a talk entitled ‘The Bishop’s Palace Gardens Past, Present and Future’ by James Cross. This illustrated talk, using historic sketches, Victorian photographs and digital pictures, highlights the changes over the years, including the huge developments and improvements of the last 15 years. Visitors £3. For more information phone 01935 862447. HARDINGTON MANDEVILLE On Tuesday 8 February from 9.45am to 3.30pm at Hardington Mandeville Village Hall, the WEA will hold a course on ‘English Canals’. Tutor: Michael Turner. Discover the contribution canals have made to industrial and social history. The course will also include a study of West Country canals with an emphasis on those in Somerset. Course fee £28, includes lunch. Book online at WEA.org.uk or phone 0300 303 3464, quoting course reference C3530596. Local contact Viv 01935 863954. HUISH EPISCOPI On Monday 3 February at 7.30pm at the Sixth Form Auditorium, Huish Episcopi Academy, is the Langport & District History Society’s monthly talk entitled ‘The National Trust collections in their Somerset houses’. The speaker is Sonja Rogers, the House & Collections Manager for South Somerset. Refreshments available in the cafeteria from 6.45pm. Non-members very welcome, £4 per person. Interested in joining the Society? Contact Sue Standen (01458 273471, suzannestanden471@ btinternet.com). Follow the Society at @langporthistory or https://sites.google.com/site/ langportheritage/home. ILMINSTER On Tuesday 11 February at 7.30pm at Broadway Village Hall, The Ile Valley Flower Club will host a demonstration entitled ‘Spring Has Sprung’ by Eden Wedding Florist of Taunton.

WHAT’S ON

All welcome. Visitors £6. For further information, contact Cheryl 01460 75025. LEIGH On Tuesday 28 January from 2.30pm to 4.30pm at Leigh Village Hall, there is the monthly WI meeting. Speaker, Brian Bates, will talk about ‘Dorset People and Places’. The competition is a ‘Photograph of Dorset’. Free for members, visitors £3. For information, contact 01935 873027 or LeighWI@dorsetwi. org. MARTOCK On Tuesday 28 January at 7.30pm at Martock Primary School, Jim Hart will talk on the parish boundaries around Yeovil. An annual membership of £10 gives free access to all talks. Non-member £3. For more information phone 01935 822202. On Wednesday 12 February at 2.00pm at Martock Parish Hall, find out about South Petherton Hospital and the surprising range of facilities, services offered, the ground breaking care the hospital gives and the support of the League of Friends. All those no longer in full time employment are welcome to enjoy a social afternoon and to find out about the 30 hobby and interest groups. Refreshments available. For more information about Martock & District U3A, visit Facebook Martock & District U3A, website www.u3a.org.uk, email martocku3amembership@ gmail.com, or phone 07510 178094. MERRIOTT On Tuesday 28 January at 7.30pm at the Tithe Barn, Dr Francis Burroughes will talk about the Victorian Head Gardener and his fascinating life on a Victorian country estate, including the correct way of mowing a lawn with a horse-drawn mower! Refreshments and raffle. Everyone welcome - nonmembers £2 at the door. On Tuesday 25 February at 7.30pm at the Tithe Barn, Merriott Gardening Club is hosting an intriguing talk by David Moon on ‘Gardening for the Rich and Famous’. Refreshments and raffle. Everyone welcome. Nonmembers £2 at the door. For further information, phone Barbara (Publicity Officer) on 01460 72298.

OVER STRATTON On Monday 17 February at 7.30pm at Stratton and District Village Hall, the Over Stratton Gardening Club hosts a talk entitled ‘A miscellany of tips, tricks & technology in the garden’ by Paul Cumbleton. Annual subs are £6, then £2 per meeting. Visitors are welcome to individual meetings, £3 on the door. For information email somersetdays@hotmail.com. SEAVINGTON On Thursday 13 February at 7.30pm at Seavington Millennium Hall, there is a Seavington Gardening Club meeting. Neil Cook will give a talk about ‘Bees and Beekeeping’. Annual subscription £8.00. Visitors welcome, £2 at the door. Enquiries to Karen Day 01460 249728. SHERBORNE On Thursday 23 January at 8.00pm at the Digby Hall, the Sherborne Historical Society has a talk ‘The Reputation of William Rufus: the (in)famous king and his critics’. Dr Benjamin Pohl asks if King William II was considered a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ king by 11th and 12th century standards and what we can learn about the nature and expectations of medieval kingship more generally. Non-members £5. For more information, visit sherbornehistoricalsociety. co.uk. On Saturday 1 February at 2.30pm at the Digby Hall, the Blackmore Vale & Yeovil Association of the National Trust presents a talk entitled ‘The Kennet & Avon Canal - history, dereliction and restoration’. Speaker: Giles Harvey. An illustrated talk exploring the history of the canal, its notable engineering features and structures, its decline and subsequent restoration. Visitors £5. Tea/ coffee included. On Wednesday 5 February at 3.00pm and at 7.00pm at Digby Hall, The Arts Society Sherborne presents a talk entitled ‘The Making of Landscape Photographs’ by Charlie Waite in which he shows images from all over the world from Namibia to his beloved Dorset. New members and visitors (£7) welcome. On Thursday 6 February from 11.00am to 12.00pm at

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Sherborne Library, there is a talk about the importance of ‘Time to Talk Day’ with Dorset Mind. A representative from Dorset Mind will share the importance of speaking-up and listening, the mission of Dorset Mind and how the charity supports mental health in Dorset. For more information, phone 01935 812683. Free entry. On Thursday 6 February at 8.00pm at the Digby Hall, the Sherborne Historical Society have a talk ‘The History of Rope, Hemp, Twine & Sail in the South-West’. Ross Aitken discusses their place in world trade and importance in national and local history. Non-members £5. For more information, visit sherbornehistoricalsociety. co.uk. On Sunday 9 February at 2.15pm in The Butterfly Room, Walled Garden Restaurant, at Castle Garden Centre, join Blue Badge Guides, Paul and Cindy, for a ‘Winter Warmer’ slide show and talk entitled ‘Understanding Sherborne south of the Abbey’. £5

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per person. For further information, visit www. sherbornewalks.co.uk, phone 07989 453966 or email info@ sherbornewalks.co.uk. On Sunday 16 February at 2.00pm at Castleton Church, there is a ‘Winter Warmer’ slide show and talk. Join Blue Badge guide Cindy Chant for her Valentine Talk about ‘The Unforgettable Walter - Sherborne’s Adopted Son’. Come and share her entertaining passion for this great man - the sermon will last about two hours! £8 per person. (All proceeds donated to Castleton Church). For further information, contact cindyatsherbornewalks@ gmail.com.

On Wednesday 19 February at 7.30pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, there is a meeting of the Sherborne Group of the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Pauline Kidner, founder of Secret World Wildlife Rescue, will be speaking about their work in rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing wildlife. Cost £3.00. On Thursday 20 February at 8.00pm at the Digby Hall, 9

WHAT’S ON

the Sherborne Historical Society has a talk ‘From Foundry to Foreign Office: the life of Arthur Henderson (1863-1935), Labour Party Leader’. Professor Andrew Thorpe charts the life of one of Labour’s founders, touching on party politics, trade unionism, Methodism, and international relations between the Wars. Non-members £5. For more information, visit sherbornehistoricalsociety.co.uk. On Friday 28 February from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Sherborne Library, John Bradshaw will talk about ‘Guide Dogs’. John was injured whilst diffusing a landmine aged 19. This is an opportunity to hear John’s life experience, what it is like to be blind, and the pleasure and empowerment of owning a guide dog. For more information, phone 01935 812683. Free entry. SOMERTON On Friday 24 January from 10.00am

to 12.00 noon at the Edgar Community Hall, there is the monthly Somerton U3A meeting. The speaker will be David Boag, wildlife photographer. David lectures regularly throughout the country to a wide variety of natural history, photographic and general interest audiences. Free for members, £2 per visitor. All welcome. Every fourth Friday at 10.00am at the Edgar Community Hall, there is a Somerton U3A meeting. Meetings start at 10.00am with coffee (50p) and chat. After any notices, the main event begins at 10.30am and finishes by 12 noon latest. Free for members, £2 per visitor. All welcome. SOUTH PETHERTON On Wednesday 22 January at 7.30pm at the Methodist Church Hall, the Local History Group has a talk entitled ‘Somerset Women’. The speaker is Jane de Gruchy of

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On Monday 3 February at 7.15pm at Frogmary Green Conference Centre, The Arts Society Neroche South Somerset is hosting a talk entitled ‘Canal History and Heritage’ by Roger Butler. New members always welcome. Visitors £10. For further information, phone Maralyn on 01460 241143. STURMINSTER NEWTON On Thursday 27 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, there is a lecture entitled ‘Tutankhamun - The Boy King’ by Anthony Russell. Through five thousand years of Egypt’s history, the name of one apparently insignificant boy stands out above all others. But who really was he? This lecture puts Tutankhamun in the context of Egyptian civilization, and considers all that is known about him and the great legacy of his discovery. Tickets £10, student £6. Box office 01258 475137.

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‘Changing Lives in Tanzania’. Speaker: Mr Robert Bygrave. New members welcome. For more information contact the Hon. Secretary on 01935 414765.

the Somerset Heritage Centre. Everyone is welcome to join (£8 annual subs) or to just come as a visitor to individual meetings (£3 on the door). All enquiries to s_petherton_ history@hotmail.co.uk.

YEOVIL On Friday 7 February at 7.30pm at Holy Trinity Church, the Yeovil Archaeological and Local History Society has a talk entitled ‘The Magic of Somerset Carnivals’. Carnival has a 400-year history in Somerset beginning in Bridgwater with bonfires and burning effigies of Guy Fawkes, then torchlight processions followed, and over the years developing into the spectacular carnival processions of today. Speaker: John Dando. Guests £2 at the door. For more information, contact 01935 477174 or visit www,yalhs.org. uk.

On Monday 10 February at 1.30pm at The Yeovil Court Hotel, the Yeovil Probus Club has a talk entitled

/TheConduitMag

Walk SHERBORNE On Sunday 16 February at 11.00am outside Sherborne Tourist Information Office, join Blue Badge walking-guide Paul Birbeck on his ‘Romantic’ Sherborne Walk. A leisurely and dog-friendly circular walk to explore some events and locations associated with the town’s ‘Romantic’ past. The three-mile walk will last about two hours. Walking shoes advised. £8 per person. Booking not needed - just turn up. For further information, contact paul@ sherbornewalks.co.uk.

Every Thursday at 11.00am starting by Sherborne Museum, there is a 40-minute Health Walk. Generally flat with a mixture of pavement and fields in dry weather. For more details call Bryan Pearson on 01749 938191. Every Friday at 2.00pm starting from Waitrose Sherborne store entrance, there is a Health Walk. Free, friendly walk of approximately 60 minutes around the town. Optional refreshments at the end. No need to book, just turn up! For more information phone 07825 691508. SOUTH PETHERTON From Saturday 1 to Saturday 29 February (excluding Mondays) from 10.00am to 5.00pm at East Lambrook Manor Gardens, there is a fabulous Festival of Snowdrops. An opportunity to see spectacular snowdrops in the garden, together with additional displays showcasing many of the 150 varieties grown there. The festival will also feature tours of the snowdrops, 1,000 snowdrops on sale in the nursery, steel snowdrop sculptures by Chris Kampf and snowdrop images taken at East Lambrook by top garden photographer Jason Ingram. Garden, nursery, cafe and gallery open. Garden entry £6.00,

@conduitmag

WHAT’S ON

over 65s £5.50, under 16s free. RHS members free on Wednesdays. www. eastlambrook.com

STOURHEAD On Sunday 26 January at 10.15am at Stourhead National Trust car park, the Dorset Ramblers will meet for walk. Car park £4 for non-National Trust members. White Sheet Hill, 5 miles in the morning and optional Stour Valley Way 2.5 miles in the afternoon. Figure of eight. Lunch stop: picnic or National Trust cafe. For further information, email jenny.newman@ zen.co.uk or visit www. dorsetramblers.co.uk.

Workshop LANGPORT Every Friday from 2.15pm at Ridgway Hall, go along to a Health and Wellbeing Circuits session, led by exercise specialist Marion Cooper. Ideal as a continuation of an NHS, COPD Respiratory or Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme. Suitable for those diagnosed with diabetes, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis or as part of health recovery. The session offers support, guidance and motivation in a safe, comfortable and friend environment. For more information phone 07814 826951 or marioncooper@ hotmail.co.uk. LONG SUTTON From Tuesday 28 January to Tuesday 10 March at 7.30pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, the WEA will hold a course ‘From Seed to Fork; the story of how plants evolved and humans adapted them’. Tutor: Greg Morter. This course explores: why, where and how agriculture was invented; key discoveries and different approaches to food growing in places as diverse as China, the Americas, the Islamic World and Britain; future challenges and possibilities. Course fee £25. Book online at WEA.org.uk or phone 0300 303 3464, quoting course reference C3530646. Local contact Kim Bailey 01935 850077. No session on 18 February.

Every Monday from 9.30am to 11.00am during term time at Long Sutton C of E Primary School, there is a workshop entitled ‘Monday Music Buddies’ for children and babies under five and their parents. The session is led by Liz Brading, an experienced Early Years Music teacher. From 9.30am to 10.15am the ‘Buddies’ sing songs, move to music and have lots of fun, then from 10.15am to 11.00am into the school hall for a snack, drink, play and a chat. Cost for £2.00 for the first child, £1 for additional children. Give the group a go – babies enjoy the stimulation (and are always tired after all the excitement!) and parents enjoy the adult contact. For further information, phone 01458 241434 and ask for Cheryl Park, Pre-school Manager. MARTOCK On Tuesday 11 February at 7.30pm at the Martock Christian Fellowship Centre, The Stanchester Quire starts its Spring Season. The Quire will be learning songs collected from or about the West Country with a view to performing them at a series of Summer concerts and Festivals. New members always welcome; there are no auditions, and the ability to read music not essential as all songs are learnt by ear. For further information, phone 01935 477884/822287 or email philwithsweets@hotmail.com or stanchesterquire1@gmail. com. Every Wednesday from 2.30pm to 3.30pm at Martock Parish Hall, go along to an Age UK Somerset Mature Movers session, led by exercise specialist Marion Cooper. Ideal as a continuation of an NHS, COPD Respiratory or Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme. Suitable for those diagnosed with diabetes, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis or as part of health recovery. The session offers support, guidance and motivation in a safe, comfortable and friend environment. For more information phone 07814 826951 or marioncooper@ hotmail.co.uk.

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS FROM YEOVIL’S PREMIER VENUES

The Octagon Theatre and Westlands Entertainment Venue will play host to a sensational selection of world class entertainment this February, with a line-up of events and shows that promise to inspire. Armonico Consort will make a welcome return to The Octagon Theatre on Tuesday 11 February as they present what are widely regarded as ‘Bach’s Greatest Hits’. Composed over the final twentyfive years of his life and completed only one year before he died, Bach Mass in B Minor is scattered with music and references that Bach considered to be his best work. Violinist Roberto Ruisi, winner of the prestigious Tillet Trust “debut” award will be taking to the stage with Pianist, Sten Heinoja on Thursday 27 February. Dig out those platforms, dust off your flares and join Abba Mania at The Octagon Theatre on Friday 14 February for an evening celebrating the music of ABBA. Fourty years since they won Eurovision and now it’s your chance to thank ABBA for the music! He looks like Elvis, sings like Elvis and has an on-stage charisma that has audiences believing at times they are watching the King himself. Experience the World’s number one Elvis tribute artist, Ben Portsmouth in his show, Taking Care Of Elvis at Westlands Entertainment venue on Saturday 15 February. At Westlands Entertainment Venue, Screenings In the Ballroom kick off with The Laundromat (15) on Thursday 6 February, starring Gary Oldman, Antonio Banderas and Meryl Streep; When a widow gets swindled out of insurance money, her search for answers leads to two cunning lawyers in Panama who hide cash for the superrich. On Monday 17, Tuesday 18 and Friday 21 February, Oscar winning director, Sam Mendes’ First World War epic 1917 (15) will be on the big screen, having already won two Golden Globes, 1917 promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. The West End is coming to Yeovil from Monday 17 – Saturday 22 February with Agatha Christie’s timeless classic, The Mousetrap. Keeping audiences the world over questioning ‘whodunit’ for longer than any other show in the history of theatre. On Wednesday 26 February the classic radio comedy, Round The Horne will be brought back to life, live on stage at Somerset’s Premier Theatre. From 1965 to 1968 there wasn’t a bigger radio programme in Britain than this groundbreaking radio comedy. In homage to one of the greatest duos in the history of British comedy, on Saturday 29 February, Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens will be presenting Eric & Ern, bringing Morecambe and Wise’s most loved routines, songs and sketches to the stage for a show that is guaranteed to hit all the right notes! For the full programme of events or to book tickets at The Octagon Theatre and Westlands Entertainment Venue visit octagon-theatre. co.uk or westlandsyeovil.co.uk call the Box Office on 01935 422884.

WHAT’S ON

New Community Choir

A new community choir starts in Yeovil on Friday 28 February. The Yeovil Good afternoon Choir is exactly that – a choir that sings in the afternoons with the accent on fun and making music together. Grenville Jones, who is well known across the West Country for his choir work and also set up the Golden-Oldies Charity, is the founder of the Good Afternoon Choirs and Yeovil will be the eleventh in 10 years. There are NO AUDITIONS and over 1,000 people sing across the choirs from Thornbury in the North to South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Frome and Wells. The new Yeovil GAC will meet at The Gateway, Yeovil Community Church from 1-3pm and the first rehearsal on Friday 28 February is free to everyone who attends. SANDFORD ORCAS On Saturday 25 January from 10.00am to 4.00pm at Sandford Orcas Village Hall, there is a Willow Pigs workshop with Kim Creswell. Make a cute little piggy using a variety of coloured willow from Dorset and Somerset. Learn techniques which are transferable to other willow sculptures. Use of tools, materials and liquid refreshments are included in the price. Please bring a picnic lunch. £95 per person. Contact Kim on 07765 654771, at kim@ kimcreswell.co.uk or visit www. kimcreswell.co.uk. From Friday 31 January to Friday 28 February from 9.00am to 1.30pm at Sandford Orcas Village Hall, there is a five-week workshop ‘Basketry for Beginners’ with Kim Creswell. Learn a new skill for the new year! This course offers participants the opportunity to gain knowledge and confidence in the ancient skill of ‘stake and strand’ basketry, using local willow. Participants will complete at least three different types of basket and should feel confident in creating baskets at home. Use of tools, materials and liquid refreshments are included in 12

The Good Afternoon Choirs regularly go on weekend tours and the picture shows the Tour choir singing in Truro Cathedral in September 2019. Grenville said, “The choir will be taken by one of our brilliant leaders, Matt Finch and we welcome everyone to come along to the first rehearsal to find out all about the fun of singing in one of our Good Afternoon Choirs! Matt is well known through his position of director of Bath Light Operatic Group and he also takes two other Good Afternoon Choirs for us – Frome and South Gloucestershire.” Full details of memberships will be available at the first meeting of the choir and there will be concerts in the future as well as fundraising which will support local organisations. In 2019 the 10 Good

Afternoon Choirs raised over £20,000 which was distributed across many local small organisations and charities. The final word goes to Grenville who will be at the opening rehearsal with Matt Finch; “Come along and meet us on Friday 28 February or any Friday afternoon following that. It’s a great community centre for the choir with the bonus of the brilliant café on site, either before or after the rehearsal. See you all at The Gateway!” For more information about the Good Afternoon Choir, telephone: 01761 472468. Follow us on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/TheGoodAfternoonChoirs/

the price. £225 per person. Contact Kim on 07765 654771, at kim@kimcreswell.co.uk or visit www.kimcreswell.co.uk.

admission prices, visit www. sherbornefolkband.org, email info@sherbornefolkband.org or phone Julia on 07527 508277.

SHERBORNE From Wednesday 5 February to Wednesday 25 March from 10.00am to 12.30pm at Digby Hall, there is a seven-week course entitled ‘Exploring Watercolours’ with tutor Laura Jolliffe. This is a new course for people who have some experience of working in watercolours. Laura is a talented artist with a wealth of teaching experience and enjoys supporting each of her students to reach their potential. £127 or £114 for Friends of ArtsLink. Book at ArtsLink office 01935 815899 or visit www. sherborneartslink.org.uk.

On Saturday 29 February from 10.00am to 4.00pm at Digby Hall, there is a Felted Art Vessels workshop with artist Jennie Loader. This is for everyone who enjoys working with fibre and textiles. Learn the resist method of creating a 3D structure using wet felt-making techniques. £68 or £61 for Friends of ArtsLink. Book at ArtsLink office 01935 815899 or visit www. sherborneartslink.org.uk.

On Sunday 16 February from 1.30pm to 4.30pm at Digby Memorial Hall, there is a Sherborne Folk Band workshop, led by Hannah Cumming, an inspiring and experienced workshop leader, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. Suitable for all levels and all acoustic instruments. Notation and audio supplied. Everyone is welcome. Coffee break and homemade cake included! For further information and

Every second Monday from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the Digby Hall, the West Country Embroiderers have a workshop. The February workshop is ‘The Torn Edge’ - machine and mixed media. Tutor: Gary Mills. New members very welcome. For further information, phone Daphne on 01747 840279. Every Tuesday from 9.15am at The Scout Hut, Blackberry Lane, Sherborne, there are awardwinning Monkey Music Classes for Babies and Young Children from 3 months to 3 years. Monkey Music aims to introduce music to very young children in a fun way they can easily understand and enjoy, with specialist teachers who gently

encourage social and musical skills within fun, stimulating and friendly environment. Monkey Music’s unique curriculum, specially written for babies from 3 months, was in response to the demand from parents increasingly aware of the importance of introducing their children to music from as young an age as possible. For more information or to book a free first class, phone Alison on 01935 850541 or email sherborne.dorchester@ monkeymusic.co.uk. To sample some of the delights of Monkey Music, please visit www. monkeymusic.co.uk. YEOVIL Every Thursday from 2.00pm at Birchfield Community Centre, Yeovil, go along to a Health and Wellbeing Circuits session, led by exercise specialist Marion Cooper. Ideal as a continuation of an NHS, COPD Respiratory or Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme. Suitable for those diagnosed with diabetes, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis or as part of health recovery. The session offers support, guidance and motivation in a safe, comfortable and friend environment. For more information phone 07814 826951 or marioncooper@ hotmail.co.uk.

WHAT’S ON

Festival of Snowdrops Throughout February East Lambrook Manor Gardens in Somerset will be celebrating all things snowdrop with its second Festival of Snowdrops; from the spectacular snowdrops growing in the garden to individual displays of unusual cultivars, snowdrop sculptures and an exhibition of snowdrop photography by top garden photographer, Jason Ingram. Margery Fish, the grande dame of cottage gardening, enthusiastically collected snowdrops, or Galanthus, to plant in her now famous garden at East Lambrook Manor, her home from 1938 to 1969. She was one of the first ‘galanthophiles’, the name given to keen collectors of this genus, and amassed a significant collection, a heritage cared for today by the garden’s current owners, Gail and Mike Werkmeister. “Mrs Fish grew most of her snowdrops in an area of the garden known as the Ditch,” explains Mike, “and this looks fabulous in February when the sides are carpeted in them. We now have over 150 different varieties, both species and hybrid cultivars. As getting down close to see them can be difficult, we have a raised display bed to show them off to advantage and we’ll also be creating additional special displays so more can be enjoyed at close quarters. We are aiming for the best display of named snowdrops in the South West.” A gift of the green-centred, double Galanthus ‘Ophelia’ began Mrs Fish’s collection and is still to be found in the garden along with many others, including several which have originated as chance seedlings. Galanthus ‘Margery Fish’, found in 1987 and named in her honour, is a slender flower with green tips, G.‘Walter Fish’ is named for her husband, G. ‘Henry B-C’ for her nephew, and G. ‘Lambrook Greensleeves’ is a snowdrop with bright green leaves. Mike says: “We want to show just how varied snowdrops can be, from the common to rare ones with yellow instead of green in the flowers. Visitors are often amazed at the diversity.” The festival will also feature tours of the snowdrops and over 60 varieties will be on sale in the nursery. Sculptor Chris Kampf will be displaying his steel snowdrops, which are an ideal way of marking favourite snowdrops so they don’t get dug up accidentally in the summer. Last but not least, renowned Bristol-based garden photographer Jason Ingram will be exhibiting prints of the snowdrops he photographed at East Lambrook last February for Garden’s Illustrated magazine for a feature in the February issue. Even if it’s too cold for the snowdrops in the garden to fully open visitors can still see them to perfection in the gallery! Visit the website for timings for the snowdrop garden tours and details of snowdrops for sale. Throughout the February festival the garden, nursery, cafe and gallery are open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Garden entry £6.00, over 65s £5.50, under 16s free. RHS members free on Wednesdays. East Lambrook Manor Gardens, Silver Street, East Lambrook, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5HH www.eastlambrook.com

Interested in Wine? Try SWIG

There are several wine tasting groups in this area, but Sherborne Wine Information Group (SWIG for short) is a bit different. SWIG is an informal wine tasting club that meets in and around Sherborne four times a year. It holds three dinners with wine tasting at which members are treated to a three course meal accompanied by eight wines. Unlike formal wine tastings, these events are very sociable and an opportunity to meet like- minded people. The group meets twice a year at the Raleigh Hall in Digby Road, Sherborne and once at the Charleton Horethorne Village Hall. The fourth meeting of the year is a summer drinks party with food held in a member’s garden. The dinners are professionally catered and are planned to go with the wines being tasted. Speakers are wine merchants, journalists, producers, Masters of Wine and sometimes amateurs with a particular interest in an aspect or region of wine. Recent talks have included The Wines of Faugeres by Rosemary George MW, The Wines of the Chilean Producer Montes by Mark Banham of Morrish and Banham in Dorchester, New Zealand Wines by Villamaria introduced by Angela Lewis of Villamaria, and The Wines of Sicily by Lits Philippou. There have also been talks on English wines from the Furleigh Estate, wines grown on Italian volcanoes, wines from Eastern Europe, minerality, quality wines from South Africa and many other subjects. The group also arranges the occasional trip abroad - a few years ago touring the Languedoc area around Pezenas tasting wines at local producers and eating good lunches. This June they are off to the Loire Valley for a wine tasting trip staying in Tours. The meetings are intended to be fun as well as instructive. We meet at 7pm to have a white or sparkling wine as an aperitif, then sit down to a three course meal during which the speaker will introduce a further seven wines, white, rose, red and maybe dessert while we are eating. Members are offered good size glasses rather than the usual tiny sips, so taxis home are recommended! SWIG is a very friendly and sociable club established in 2001 and currently with 100 members although we limit the numbers to each dinner to 50. We are looking to recruit a few new members. Life membership is just £10 and the price of a dinner with eight wines included is £40 which we feel is excellent value compared to comparable organizations. Our next event is on Friday 28 February at the Raleigh Hall in Digby Road Sherborne at which Lits Philippou will talk about wines from the Loire Valley as an introduction to our visit there in June. If you would like know more or to come along to our next meeting in February please contact the Hon Secretary, Adrian Foss on adrian.foss57@outlook.com or Julian Halsby on julianhalsby@gmail.com.

SWIG

Sherborne Wine Interest Group • Regular Wine Tasting Dinners in and around Sherborne • Very sociable but informal events • Meet new friends and enlarge your interest in wine • Next meeting 28th February ‘Wines of the Loire Valley’ Contact: julianhalsby@gmail.com or adrian.foss57@outlook.com 13

ANTIQUES

Antiques & Collectables

This section covers local sales, auctions, antiques fairs and events in the area with advice from dealers and experts on different topics. If you are interested in this and have some items to sell or run an antique or restoration business then do contact us for our next issue.

AUCTIONS, FAIRS AND SALES On 28 January and 18 February Dukes in Dorchester will be holding an Avenue Auction comprising a sale of Toys & Collectables, Vintage Clothing & Accessories at 10.30am. Please note viewing is every Saturday prior to sale from 9.30am-12.00noon and on every Monday prior to sale 9.00am-7.00pm as well as on the morning of the auction day from 9.00am. On 23 January there is a Fine Art sale with the pertinent title of Winter Fine Art. Contact one of their specialists to find out more: enquiries@dukes-auctions.com. On 27 February don’t miss the sale for Coins, Militaria, Tribal Art Sporting & Maritime.

Bridport Auction House has its sale of Collectables and Antiques on Friday 31 January, starting at 10am. Viewing Days are Wednesdays and on the morning of the sale. For more information call: 01308 459400.

Auction house Lawrences in Crewkerne has General Sales taking place on Wednesdays 29 January, 5, 12, 19 and 26 February. All general sales start at 9.30am and viewing is from the Tuesday before the sale from 9am to 7pm. For more information call 01460 73041.

Yeovil Auction House has a sale coming up on Saturday, 25 January. Yeovil Auctions is located at Court Ash - opposite the main car park in the town centre we hold an auction, usually of antiques and collectables, every month. Call: 01935433965 or email: yeovilauctionrooms@gmail.com.

Mendip Auction Rooms in Binegar, Somerset has a sale of Victorian and Later Effects on Tuesday 4 February, followed by Antiques & Collectables on Saturday 8 February and another Victorian and Later Effects on Tuesday 18 February. Note that sales of Antique, Fine Art & Collectables are held on a monthly basis on Saturdays and starting at 10am. Entries of items are invited. For more info, call: 01749 840770.

ENJOY A BREW WHILE YOU VIEW SHERBORNE SHOP’S ANTIQUES hammer price with a Lotting Fee of £5 per lot. 19% buyer’s premium (No VAT). The business is always happy to give advice & valuations on any item that you may be looking to sell. They will accept single items and can arrange

Acreman Street Antiques & Interiors is situated on the outskirts of Sherborne - a large antiques centre with a good selection of quality antiques and collectables including a great array of jewellery & objet D’art. The shop is set over two floors with an outside display area that includes garden statues and furniture. Open seven days a week, we have customer parking and our new Café ‘Deja Brew’ is opening on Monday 3 February. It will be offering a menu of brunch, light lunches, snacks & cakes, with vegan, dairy free & gluten free 14

options and daily specials. All are homemade using locally sourced ingredients and it’s open seven days a week. Acreman Street Antiques Auction comprises two auction rooms on the same site holding monthly General & Fine Art & Collectors auctions on behalf of local vendors. For General sales, charges for selling are 15% inclusive of VAT on the hammer price with a minimum charge of £2 per lot sold. There is an 18% buyer’s premium (No VAT). For Fine Art & Collectors auctions, charges for selling are 15% inclusive of VAT on the

a complete house clearance service at competitive rates. For more information visit: www.acremanstreetantiques. co.uk or drop in to 121, Acreman Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PH. Tel 01935 508764 or Gill on 07908333577.

TOP PRICES PAID FOR OLD TOYS - any condition

We are always keen to buy antique silver and old Sheffield plate at current prices Please telephone or call into the shop 38 CHEAP STREET, SHERBORNE DORSET DT9 3PX

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Trains, cars and lorries, soldiers, etc Britains, Dinky, Corgi, Hornby, Meccano, Tri-ang, etc

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MARCH DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 7 February Advertisements: MONDAY, 10 February

GARDENING

Gardening

BE AWARE OF WATER!

CASTLE GARDENS New Road, Sherborne DT9 5NR Tel: 01935 814633 BRIMSMORE GARDENS Tintinhull Road, Yeovil BA21 3NU Tel: 01935 411000

By Mike Burks, Managing Director of The Gardens Group

One of the biggest issues we will face as a result of the changing climate is the availability of water, which may seem like an odd thing to say following the last three months of 2019, but in some parts of the world there will be extreme shortages (look at the fires in Australia) and elsewhere there will be too much. This is due to rising sea levels, greater rainfall and more regular torrential rain. Even taking all of this into consideration, we still might get drought in the summer during the same 12 months. So we’ll need to plan for this in the garden as too much rain can cause major problems, torrential rain will damage soils and will cause the best soil in our gardens to be washed away. The higher water table will cause waterlogging, which will upset plant growth too. Some think that locally improving drainage will help but this may cause problems further down the line. Indeed, the paving of gardens (and also wherever we take away fields, woodland or hedges) is having a major effect on flooding as the rainwater moves too quickly getting in drains, ditches and streams so that rivers are overwhelmed in a very short time. Rain that hits a lawn seeps gently in and takes much longer to get to the drains and so there is a delay before it arrives in the river. The RHS is worried about this and has been campaigning for a few years now to stop front gardens from being paved over. I also heard recently about a suggested new tax based on the amount of our gardens that are paved over, how this would ever

POUNDBURY GARDENS

be calculated I’m not sure, but I Peverell Avenue, Poundbury DT1 3RT get the principle. Mulching soils Tel: 01305 257250 with composted bark or Bloomin’ www.thegardensgroup.co.uk Amazing will help in that the rain will hit the mulch and gently seep down to the soil so damage to the structure is avoided. As the mulch breaks down, so the soil improves and is able to hold onto more moisture whilst still keeping plants in good health. Collecting excess water in water butts in the garden is a really useful way to overcome summer droughts, what’s more, the water collected is free and better quality than that supplied by the water companies. Mulches on borders and any bare soil will conserve moisture in those soils and the use of irrigation systems will help us use the water more efficiently. It may also be that we need to be more tolerant and stop worrying about lawns going brown. I heard an environmental comedian (yes, there are such people) the other day saying that washing the car and watering the lawn are not the biggest users of water, but they are the only ones that your neighbours can see and so will be disproportionately frowned upon. The bigger water use is in the house - behind the closed doors of the bathroom or the curtains of the kitchen! So, plan to save water and don’t be too quick to get rid of it but most importantly be aware of it.

LOW MA

ANCE INTEN

DITED ACCR E PROFESSIONAL

INSTALLATION

GARDENING

UP THE GARDEN PATH

by Julie Haylock, Sandhurst Garden Design

Sandhurst Garden Design Julie Haylock Garden Designer 20 Sandhurst Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2LG

Tel: 07899 710168 Email: haylock2lg@btinternet.com www.sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk Contact Julie for garden and border design, planting plans, plant selection advice and garden styling

A good selection of evergreen shrubs is essential for your garden. They provide backbone and structure and give that all important year round interest. They are easy to care for and respond well to careful pruning at the correct time of year. Evergreens, and under this umbrella I include shrubs that have variegated, silver and gold foliage, in some cases have the added bonus of flowers in spring and summer and berries in autumn and winter. I have singled out a few shrub varieties which will make an excellent addition to your garden, but there are many more to choose from at your local garden centre, but remember to read the plant label to check that the soil condition and eventual size of the shrub will suit your own garden. Osmanthus x Burkwoodii this shrub has dark green glossy leaves that have finely toothed edges and has small white jasmine scented flowers in spring. Ideal for a medium to large garden as this shrub can grow to 3 m in height and diameter. Euonymus fortunei ‘Silver Queen’ or ‘Emerald Gaiety’ - both have dark green leaves edged with white, while Euonymus fortunei

‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’ has dark green leaves with yellowy gold tips. These tough plants will tolerate shade and make a great foil for other plants, most definitely will provide you with all year round colour and interest and are great for filling that difficult spot in the garden. Pieris ‘Forest Flame’ – this acid soil loving evergreen produces fiery red new leaf growth that turns green with age, has clusters of ivory bell shaped flowers in spring and prefers to be sited in a shady spot, so ideal for a woodland style garden. Pittosporum tenuifolium - the variety ‘Golf Ball’ is a neat shrub with small glossy leaves that provide architectural interest for your border all year round. In late spring and early summer this shrub has tiny scented brown/ purple flowers and makes a versatile shrub to have in the garden. Garrya elliptic ‘James Roof’ - this shrub can be grown as a specimen tree in a large garden, it has dark green glossy leaves that have a wavy edge, and produces long silver tassels during the winter months that resemble icicles making it a stunning addition to the winter garden if you have the space. Vibrunum Tinus - this shrub

rdening 16

BBC Gardeners’ World Live Gold Medal Award Taunton Flower Show Gold Medal Award and The Western Daily Press Cup for Best Show Garden

is perfect for winter interest. It can be grown in a border or suitable container and will tolerate shade and cope with an exposed site. From late winter to spring this shrub produces tiny starshaped scented flowers, followed by dark blue/black fruit; this shrub will need space to mature as some varieties will reach 3m high and wide. Finally, Skimmia Japonica ‘Nymans’ (female) – this glossy green leafed shrub has white slightly aromatic flowers in April and May followed by gorgeous red berries in the winter. You will need to plant a male variety nearby, for example ‘Kew Green’, ‘Rubella or ‘Flagans’ to cross-pollinate

this plant to ensure plenty of berries for you to enjoy. Until next time – Julie

Wills of Sherborne

PlumbinG & Heating ltD Local & Reliable Plumber Gas safe registered, fully insured

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Mapperton House

N R I C

W t t

T C

PROPERTY AND INTERIORS

TOP TIPS FOR MAINTAINING YOUR PROPERTY DURING THE WINTER MONTHS Maintaining your property is one of the most important aspects of being a homeowner or landlord, even more so in winter time. The season’s infamous weather and decrease in temperature means we must all act to make sure our homes are safe and well insulated this time of year. PIPING Keeping on top of your pipework should be right at the top of your winter property maintenance checklist. A pipe can burst when water pressure builds up behind a frozen section of the pipe. From this, the results can include flooding, dampness, and temporary loss of property. Thankfully, there are a number of steps in place to help ensure your pipes survive the winter cold and help heat your property. These include: Insulating your pipes with sleeves or wrapping and running heat through them at least a couple of times a week to help minimise the build-up of frozen water. HEATING Following on from the pipework it is then essential to inspect the remaining heating system on your property. Radiators – it’s always good to bleed your radiators as there may be trapped air inside of them. Releasing the air allows the radiator to fully heat up and gives your property the best chance of warming up. It will also save money on energy bills. Boiler – again, just to be safe we would advise getting your boiler checked out by a Gas Safety-registered engineer. This is typically done once a year but it is always good to know nearer winter. That would truly be the worst time of year for things to stop working!

MARCH DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 7 February

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GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Besides pipework and radiators, there are other key aspects of the property which need to be looked at and maintained during the winter months. Dampness – Damp can be such a nuisance and difficult to deal with in the winter time. You can reduce condensation occurring in your property by closing the kitchen door when cooking and leaving your clothes to dry near a window. Guttering – autumn has passed and the leaves have fallen from the trees – most likely straight into your gutters! Drain pipes can become blocked and restrict the flow of water, meaning water could find its way into your property. Don’t give it a chance, clean your gutters!

IAN CROSSLAND

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Tel: 01935 411813 Mob: 07811 070 498

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With over 20 years’ experience for a friendly reliable service please give me a call

01935 808052

BOOKS

BOOK REVIEW By Wayne, Winstones

8, Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset. DTP 3PX 01935 816 128 winstonebooks1@gmail.com www.winstonebooks.co.uk

We Are Currently Loving: Meet Me At the Museum by Anne Youngson £8.99 Sometimes it takes a stranger to really know who you are. When Tina Hopgood writes a letter of regret to a man she has never met, she doesn’t expect a reply. When Anders Larsen, a lonely museum curator, answers it, nor does he. They’re both searching for something; they just don’t know it yet. Anders has lost his wife, along with his hopes and dreams for the future. Tina is trapped in a marriage she doesn’t remember choosing. Slowly their correspondence blossoms as they bare their souls to each other with stories of joy, anguish and discovery. But then Tina’s letters suddenly cease, and Anders is thrown into despair. Can their unexpected friendship survive? A correspondence that begins with a search for clarity becomes something much deeper and richer - both for the two main characters, and for the reader. Anne Youngson peels away the layers that prevent us from living the lives we ought to be leading, and her book is both tender and absorbing. This is a beautiful, affecting novel of late love, by an extraordinary new writer. A moving tribute to friendship and love, to the courage of the ordinary, and to starting again. - RACHEL JOYCE `Tender, wise and moving, Meet Me at the Museum is a novel to cherish.’ - JOHN BOYNE 18

Sit back this winter and

enjoy a journey around Sherborne and beyond

By Paul Birbeck, Blue Badge Tour Guide.

Walking around outside in cold, wet or windy winter weather is not everyone’s idea of fun. If you are prefer your fun a little cosier or you belong to a group who are looking for something different, a ‘Winter Warmer’ presentation might be of interest. Sherborne Walks can now bring you slide talks in the comfort of your own home or normal meeting venue. In our experience, people are interested to know more about the place they live. There is no doubt that every town, village and house has a fascinating history and sometimes hidden secrets. Sherborne and surrounding localities offer a rich variety to choose from. Many old buildings provide clues to how people lived in the past and are often associated with interesting stories or people. That is what the programme focuses on – we use the main theme to share memories and stimulate discussion. Our experience to date has shown that our presentations provoke stories which participants are encouraged to share. In recent months we’ve heard a ghost story, memories of an unusual ‘official’ raid whilst eating out in a local restaurant, to a wonderful account of someone who survived the 1940 Sherborne Bombing as a young child. Such interactive discussion is interesting and keeps everyone awake! Researching these presentations keeps Cindy (my fellow Blue Badge Guide) and myself ‘on our toes’ and ensures that we continually develop our own knowledge. Our programme offers a variety of titles which cover a number of our walking routes around the town, historical elements such as Sherborne at War and The early origins of the town to discovering about The Life Of Walter Raleigh In 10 Objects. The programme also includes a journey along the Jurassic Coast and surrounding villages. Cindy and I recently visited a local residential home. The Manager wrote “Thank you so much for your talk the other week. I think it has really struck a chord with many of our residents and I am keen to Visit the award winning Castle make it a regular event.” Garden Centre on Sunday 9th Winter Warmer group booking discounted rate is £50 (£35 if only one speaker required). Individual entry rate for advertised WW events around the town will be £5 per head. So, if you want to book a Winter Warmer or, if you’d prefer, a guided winter walk around your town (£8.00 per head), contact info@ sherbornewalks.co.uk or telephone 07989 453966 or 01935 816518. Further details about our programme are available at www.sherbornewalks.co.uk

February at 2:15pm and join Blue Badge Guides, Cindy and Paul in The Butterfly Room, Walled Garden Restaurant for a talk and slide show to ‘Discover Sherborne south of the Abbey’ Just £5 each

Why not arrive early and enjoy lunch in the Garden Centre Restaurant!

Coming soon:

Sun 8th March – ‘Beyond the Seen’ Explore the links between Sherborne and the UNESCO Jurassic Coast. Further details available from: www.sherbornewalks.co.uk T: 07989 453966 E: info@sherbornewalks.co.uk

CARE

66 YEAR OLD GEARS UP FOR 350 MILE CYCLE RIDE FOR CHARITY 66-year-old Annie Marshall from Butleigh near Glastonbury, a listening volunteer with Samaritans Yeovil, Sherborne & District, is gearing up to undertake a 350mile cycle ride to raise funds for the branch.

The Samaritans Heritage Bike Ride, organised by the national Samaritans charity, will take place from the 16 to 21 May 2020. Starting out in London, the participants will cycle through some of the UK’s most celebrated countryside, stopping off at various cities on route including Colchester, Cambridge, King’s Lynn, Hull & York. Annie has always loved cycling. Since she first started out on her red trike, aged three, she hasn’t looked back. ‘The minute I get on a bike, I experience a huge sense of wellbeing and freedom.’ Neither is Annie a stranger to distance cycling, having achieved several feats on her trusty two wheeler including a charity ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats for which she raised £2,000 for MIND in 2016 and a marathon ride from Butleigh to Tuscany via

Marseille and Corsica in 2017.

Volunteer with us

This latest ride, though less We will train, mentor and overall mileage than she has achieved in the past, does present support you all the way. some challenges: ‘I normally To find out more and apply, visit cycle with my husband. We samaritans.org/volunteer spur each other on and bounce Call 01935 478 746 Yeovil Sherborne off each other. But this time I’m & District Email yeovil@samaritans.org going solo. It also has several consecutive days with high Samaritans of Yeovil, Sherborne & District is a registered charity. mileage and usually the pace is more varied. But what’s different about this one, and what I’m ‘Being part of Samaritans is also like being really looking forward to most, is being able part of a large family. I have met so many to meet fellow Samaritans in the stop- off interesting people from all walks of life and cities along the way.’ have made so many genuine friends. It’s a Annie is already in full training for April, truly rewarding experience in every way.’ despite the wintry weather. ‘I try to be To sponsor Annie visit out on the bike three times a week and do https://www.justgiving.com/Annie-Marshall3. at least one ride of 40 miles. I’ll also be exercising in other ways – mainly swimming Could you be a Samaritans volunteer? If and walking.’ you’d like to be part of our story, why not come along to one of our monthly open Annie is delighted to be raising money for evenings which take place on the first her local branch of Samaritans, where she has been a listening volunteer for two years. Wednesday of every month at 7pm at our ‘Becoming a Samaritan has been an amazing Centre, Morley House, West Hendford. There’s no need to pre-book, just turn up. thing to do in retirement. I’ve always been Alternatively, you can call our information an active person and didn’t just want to line on 01935 478746, email recruitment@ disappear into the ether. Samaritans offers yeovilsamaritans.org.uk or visit our website stimulating and challenging work and an at https://www.samaritans.org/branches/ incredible opportunity to make a difference samaritans-yeovil-sherborne-and-district.’ to people’s lives.

A BLUEBIRD TREAT FOR ROSE

The Bluebird Treat scheme allows staff to nominate a customer who they think deserves a little treat. The treat could be a day trip to somewhere special, a visit to a friend or relative, or attending a sporting or social event; all with no cost to the customer. Customer Rose wanted some girlie companions, and Bluebird were happy to oblige. Rose likes to watch game shows, the news and 80’s/90’s TV series and films. She spends a lot of time with her husband and finds it increasingly difficult to get out and about, so she wanted some girlie time as a Bluebird Treat. Bluebird’s Registered Care Manager Jemma and Supervisor Tanya were happy to oblige by cutting Rose’s hair (Tanya is a qualified hairdresser) and Jemma polishing Rose’s nails - sometimes we just need a little time with friendly faces to make us happy. Ross Perkins (Director) comments ‘It is our complete pleasure to be able to give this treat to Rose. Rose is always lovely and treats our carers with great respect. It was our privilege to provide some girly company; I’m looking forward to many more treats to come’. Bluebird Care offers a realistic alternative to residential care by allowing people to stay in their own homes with care and support. Its work can involve one or more short visits a day in order to help with the everyday tasks of life. However, the homecare service doesn’t stop there because longer duration visits are also available, including overnight help and live in care. For further information about Bluebird Care’s homecare and support services across the South Somerset area, please contact the team on 01935 584184 or visit www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/south-somerset 19

LEGAL COMPUTING

IS IT ENOUGH TO HAVE ‘NEXT OF KIN’?

By Catherine Murton, Head of Private Client, Pardoes Solicitors LOOKING AFTER YOU, YOUR FAMILY & YOUR BUSINESS

As a solicitor I am often faced with people’s mistrust of the legal profession. There is still a stereotypical view of a solicitor as a pompous man, who will talk legal jargon and charge for every second of the time spent baffling his poor client! However, this really doesn’t reflect the modern legal profession. All of the solicitors in my Private Client Team at Pardoes are approachable and down to earth. They are knowledgeable (as you should expect) but they are able to explain complicated issues in plain English and will always make sure that they spend the necessary time with their clients to allow plenty of questions. An estimate of the cost of the work needed is provided at the first meeting, with most things being a fixed fee. There is no charge for the initial meeting if you don’t wish to proceed. We offer free home visits for those that are not able to attend our offices. Just as the legal profession has evolved, there have been many changes in society that have impacted on how we do things. A good example of this is the term ‘next of kin’. My team and I are often told by clients that they do not require us to prepare Power

of Attorney for them as their ‘next of kin’ will be able to deal with things on their behalf. I am sure that this was once true. Families tended to be simple nuclear families, the Bank Manager knew all of the customers personally and it was unheard of to sue the NHS. Times have certainly changed! Financial institutions, insurance companies, utility providers, social services, hospitals and GPs will refuse to speak to a third party unless they have been legally appointed to act. Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to name attorneys that you would like to deal with your financial matters or to speak on your behalf in respect of health issues if you are unable to do so for yourself. ‘Next of kin’ may be appointed but friends or professionals may be more appropriate in some cases. So if you have always assumed that your ‘next of kin’ would be able to look after you if you become unable to do so yourself please do give me a call on 01935 382689 or email on catherine. murton@pardoes.co.uk to discuss how to make this a legal right!

WIN £10 IN OUR

WORDSEARCH

PUZZLE

Does The Conduit provide you with a fascinating Wordsearch every month? Guilty as charged! To sit alongside our legal column this month, we thought we would gather together all those words that you might think of when entering a Court of Law and with all the TV legal dramas around, there are few of us who can say we aren’t familiar with those riveting procedures! Just find the hidden words in the grid below, ring each word until you have found all of them and when you have completed the puzzle send it to: The Conduit Magazine, Unit 4, Barton View Business Park, Sheeplands Lane, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4FW. The lucky winner receives a £10 cheque. The closing date is: Monday 17 February.

GOOD LUCK

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If you would like to know who has won our Wordsearch Puzzles see our website.

Fashion BRIGHTER DAYS AHEAD . . . By Thelma Drabik, Melbury Gallery The days are starting to get longer bringing with them the promise of warmer weather and the dazzling hues of springtime. Here at Melbury Gallery we are excited about what this new decade will bring and to show you all our amazing new spring collections! If you come by the shop you’ll see that over the next few weeks we will be having lots of gorgeous new collections arriving! We are all about colour and this coming season is no different. Sorbet pinks, azure hues, rich browns, warm saffron . . . we have such a vast array of beautiful tones to look forward to! The stunning new colour story from Thought inspired by the vibrancy of Venice is a sneak peak of the

treats that await for spring! Our other favorite brands including OSKA, SAHARA, MASAI, ADINI and many more will also be debuting their spectacular new collections soon and they do not disappoint! Expect stylish easy to wear pieces that flatter any figure with elegant silhouettes and plenty of wonderfully designed prints. Many of the brands we love put quality and sustainability at the core of their ethos with many being ethical traders so you can feel good about what you are buying too. All the more reason to treat yourself!

GARDENING FASHION

MELBURY GALLERY

SHERBORNE Half Moon Street DORCHESTER 10-11 Tudor Arcade, South Street www.melburygallery.co.uk life. Here at Melbury Gallery we have an extensive range of stunning scarves of all weights and a wonderful selection of jewellery – gold, silver, gemstones, resin, wood, fabric we really do have it all! While you’re looking at all the fabulous new collections

there are also still some great last minute Autumn/Winter reductions with up to 70% off. Hurry before they’re all gone! So come along and put a spring in your step with some new additions to your wardrobe from Melbury Gallery.

Don’t forget about those allimportant accessories! A well matched scarf or statement piece of jewellery can really make an outfit and bring it to

TRAVEL

DISCOVER THE VIKING CRUISE DIFFERENCE…

Local TRAVEL Event in Yeovil

by Heather Muir, Miles Morgan Travel We are delighted to be a main agent for Viking Ocean and River Cruises.

For river cruising, they offer a river journey like no other and when you book with us by the 31 March 2020 you can save up to £1000 per person on selected cruises. Their river cruises are as rich in natural beauty as they are in fascinating culture; they give you a unique view of each country’s destinations and take you straight to their heart. Many of our staff have travelled on a Viking river cruise and the days are filled with exploration; new discoveries are made, along with new friends. Nights reveal cities illuminated by twinkling

lights and ushered in relaxed entertainment over drinks and conversation. Their ocean cruises offer itineraries from Scandinavia and the Baltic, to Australia and New Zealand. Viking ocean ships set a new standard in on-board Scandi-chic and innovative facilities. Dine in a different restaurant every night for free, with more alfresco options than any other ship of a similar size. Enjoy the privacy of your own veranda - every stateroom has one, which is a fantastic added benefit. Lap up the views from the first infinity pool at sea and relax and enjoy a Nordic-style spa. We have many satisfied customers who have experienced the Viking difference on an ocean cruise and the feedback we’ve received is amazing. Viking ocean and river cruises are among our top sellers and

LEARN MORE ABOUT VIKING CRUISES Event to be held on:

Tuesday 3rd March at 7pm The Manor Hotel, Yeovil

I can certainly see why. Their cruises up to 2021 are on sale now and booking early is essential. Viking is consistently voted number one which is no surprise. On every Viking journey – whether river or ocean – they Contact our Travel Specialists offer remarkable to be added to the guest list value for money, with so much included in Phone lines open until 10pm the price from return 01935 577294 2 Borough Arcade, High Street flights to on board www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk Yeovil BA20 1RX Wi-Fi. Whether you opt for a river cruise Yeovil on Tuesday 3 March at or venture out to the ocean, 7pm. This event is sure to be Viking provides two different popular, therefore, to avoid ways of seeing the world with the same high standards of disappointment please do service and quality on board. call us very soon to be added to the guest list on 01935 If you would like to find out 577294 or pop in to 2 Borough more about what Viking have Arcade, High Street, Yeovil. to offer, we are delighted to We look forward to hearing announce that they are joining us at The Manor House in from you.

A trip on the Watercress Line By Travel Correspondent Tim Saunders

“I treat it as if I am five years old,” says Karen, who provides the humorous commentary at the Watercress Line, urging Thomas the tank engine to be patient, to stop whistling and let the passengers get on. “It’s great fun and magical for the children.” Karen has worked on the Day Out with Thomas events at this Hampshire station for the past 12 years and clearly loves what she does as much as all of us. The railway’s Day out with Thomas typically runs for a couple of weeks in April and August each year. Henry (3) is an avid follower of Thomas the tank engine, created by Reverend W. Awdry, who was born in Ampfield, Hampshire in 1911. We arrive at Ropley and park in a large field with a great many other visitors. It’s an extremely popular event. There is an air of happiness: all worries forgotten, at least for 22

today. What a joy. Passengers are transported back into the 1940s and the wonder of steam: The smell and the sound. But also friendliness, so often absent from life today. Fellow passengers wave at each other and when we cannot find seats where we can all sit together a very kind woman sitting on her own, offers: “Don’t worry I’ll move.” When would this happen on one of those characterless modern diesel trains? Grandparents reminisce about how these used to be a regular feature of their travels to school and on the family holiday. Those of us too young to remember this can imagine though and the old films we have watched and the books we have read have helped give an idea of what life was like back then. The beloved Watercress Line, its army of staff and volunteers, all dressed in period attire bring

the past to the present. There are numerous old signs for such things as Fry’s Delicious Chocolates, R White’s Ginger Beer and Camp Coffee is the best. If only the beautiful and vibrant flowerbeds and hanging baskets that adorn the platforms could be found at mainline stations. The sheer hard work and attention to detail of the staff ensures that any visit is a memorable occasion. At one railway station we spy vintage milk cans as if they are waiting to be loaded. Then of course there are the drivers and the firemen stoking the coal. Lovingly restored trains and carriages provide regular trips to railway stations in Alresford, Medstead and Ropley. These are not that far away and so no journey is very long, which is ideal for the little ones. Harriett (8), Heidi (6) and Henry all settle down in

their seats around the table in anticipation for the journey ahead. We all enjoy the chug chug, clickety clack and the views across the wonderful Hampshire landscape. At the end of our day Caroline says: “I don’t feel tired as I often do on a day out; it’s been lovely and relaxing.” For more information visit: www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk https://www.watercressline. co.uk/ Watch the video at www.travelwriter.biz

Motoring By Tim Saunders

“You can move a house with that, mate,” the delivery driver smiles, as he hands over the keys to the green Volkswagen Crafter. “It’s just as well,” I reply, “because I’ve got loads of furniture to shift.” There’s no denying that it is a large vehicle, so large it fills the length of our top driveway and is so wide that there is only just enough space to walk down the side of it. It’s always a little daunting going from driving a car to a van and even more so going to the Crafter because it just looks so huge. But the delight is that once behind the wheel it’s just like driving a car… without the rear view mirror - for the simple reason that you can’t see behind you. VW has got that covered though by fitting an extremely helpful reversing camera that feeds the image to the dash and really boosts the driver’s confidence. Reversing off the drive is a little awkward due to our neighbour’s car, as usual, being parked on the pavement outside but fortunately there’s enough space to my right to be able to overcome this problem. As long as you are sensible and consider the width of the Crafter then driving is a pleasurable experience. We arrive in Ringwood naively anticipating that only a couple of hours of heavy lugging will be required and we’ll be home for lunch. Wife Caroline agrees that we should park by the roadside and she spies a perfect spot, which happens to be directly under the window of the flat. So we park up and put a

MOTORING

Tim Saunders is an advanced motorist and journalist. He has always been passionate about motoring and regularly reviews cars from the leading manufacturers. His first report on a BMW 520i was published in the Dorset Echo when he was 17 (just after passing his driving test) in 1995. He went on to become business and motoring editor at the Bournemouth Echo. note in the windscreen for the traffic warden. I fold the driver’s wing mirror in to prevent it getting knocked. It takes a couple of minutes to walk from the van to the flat, negotiating slow electric gates every time, and walking up a staircase. We decide to move the largest item of furniture first, a sizeable six foot two door pine cupboard. It’s heavy and awkward. With care, a bit of thought and some heated discussions, we slowly make our way through the pokey flat, along the landing and down the stairs. We can then properly carry it on its side and eventually get to the van where we open the back right door first. I soon realise that I can push the door right back and it will helpfully hold itself open without smashing back into me. This is particularly handy as we are parked on a slope. It takes me a minute or so to figure out how to open the left hand door – there’s a black sort of lever on the inside of it that you move to do this. Again, push it out as far as possible and it holds itself open. Good design.

Brewers Garage.qxp_Layout 1 19/06/2018 11:33 Page 1

BREWERS GARAGE LTD Western Ways Yard, Bristol Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4HR

• DIAGNOSTICS • MOT • SERVICING

• REPAIRS • AIR CON SERVICING • TYRES

Call us on 01935

812720

Volkswagen Crafter CR35 Trendline MWB 2.0 TDI 8spd automatic, 4MOTION Price: £52,181 OTR incl VAT

Top speed: 110mph

0-60mph: 15secs

Power: 177bhp

Economy: 33mpg

Payload: 1,076kg

Take a look at Tim’s video where you can see him test driving the VW Crafter and other vehicles www.testdrives.biz 23

BUSINESS & FINANCE

COMPUTING

CONSIDER THESE SIMPLE QUESTIONS… By Mark Salter, Financial Planner It’s the time of year when some of us adrenaline seeking individuals escape to the snowy mountains for a week or a long weekend of skiing or snowboarding. For others they prefer to escape the rain, wind and cold to a warmer climate and spend their days relaxing in the sunshine. As a lifestyle financial planner, I get to speak to many different people and we all have different ideas and aspirations about how we live our lives now and our plans for the future. What risks we take and what we do to reduce these risks. A good example is perhaps wearing a helmet when we’re skiing down the mountain and applying sun cream when we’re relaxing on a sun lounger. In a similar way to holidays, some people choose to work

for themselves either by setting up their own company or working self-employed. This could be considered a risk by some but an opportunity to others. The security of being employed and receiving a salary each month and being part of a workplace pension is often appealing, particularly with ongoing expenses such as household bills, rent or a mortgage to pay. Although everyone’s circumstances might be very different, they do have many things in common and similar decisions to make, particularly around their finances and the impact that these decisions can have on their families. I have met many people that work very hard and are very successful but haven’t ever considered the impact of being unable to work due to long term sickness or haven’t got adequate life cover in place to

protect their family. I have often heard the phrases; it won’t happen to me or it’s just too expensive! I really do enjoy helping people plan their financial futures and achieve everything they set out to do, but just as important, protect them and their family if things don’t quite go to plan. Some simple questions to ask yourself, particularly if your circumstances have changed recently: Ø How long will I continue to be paid for if I can’t work? Ø How much do my family and I need to pay our bills each month? Ø What position would my family be in if I died prematurely? Ø Would my family be able to clear debts and still have enough income to live? If you are a business owner

then you should perhaps consider these questions in relation to the business as well as your family. Once you have the answers you can begin reviewing the protection you already have and also consider the benefits that might be provided by your employer. Protecting the family is not as expensive as you might think and it is a very important step in financial planning and becoming financially well organised.

ANTIVIRUS & INTERNET SECURITY REVISITED By Jimmy Flynn, Milborne Port Computers Last month I was asked for some advice … “I keep getting stuff about AVG, Norton and McAfee security etc. and I find it very confusing. Should I be using them and pressing their buttons?” … Well should you? This is not intended to be anti-AVG but more, anti-most antivirus companies. They mostly badger you constantly to buy extra security products to stop life-as-you-know-it from ending. So what are you to do? Consider your risks! In my humble opinion this is simple, unashamed, scaremongering - sales talk intended to get you to buy a product that you don’t need. Unless you are a terrorist, crook or other class with “something to hide”, do you really care if someone knows what websites you’ve visited or what emails you’ve sent with holiday snaps? To start with, they’d have to be interested in you in the first place to be watching you, amongst the other 55 million residents of our country … and despite all the chat, that’s still pretty difficult. 24

Getting you to buy additional products is perhaps an admission that their base product might not be good enough on its own?? I’d ignore them all and when the time comes, consider looking at other security products that may better suit your needs. The most important thing is to have something rather than nothing. Windows 10 has a perfectly good built in firewall that will protect you against external hackers (as does your router), but is doesn’t look at outgoing traffic that may be infected and may open a door for a hacker. For that to happen you must first have contracted a virus or malware. Windows 10 also included a perfectly serviceable antivirus system called Windows Defender that will protect you against most common threats and known dodgy software, so unless you consider yourself to be a high-risk user then don’t be drawn in to buying unnecessary extras. By high-risk, I mean those of you that regularly visit on-line chat systems, news groups, video

sharing, downloading & torrent sites that are of questionable origin (i.e. you have teenage children using your PC). If you think that you fall into this category, then you do need something more robust. Look for something that is termed “Internet Security” as this will include antivirus, firewall and anti-malware. Some include password managers, backup and spam filters, but these are not so important and are used as sweeteners to convince you to buy. Frequently you’ll be offered multi-user deals and smart-phone protection and well, don’t be blinded by these deals … concentrate on the primary

functions and how good they are. It would be unfair of me to rate or slate any of the market leaders, but suffice it to say that the product we sell and re-sell may not be the cheapest and you’ll rarely find it in the headlines, but we’re quietly comfortable with it. I guess that if you’re happy with what you’ve got then there is no need to change but, as always, if you need help with this or any other related technology, you know where to come!

Coming Up Next Month … Windows 7: End of life

PET HEALTH

What are your practices out-of-hours emergency arrangements?

HISTORY

142 Preston Road, Yeovil Somerset BA20 2EE Lower Acreman Street Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3EX www.newtonclarkevet.com

By Matt Saunders BVetMed MRCVS, Newton Clarke Veterinary Surgeons Hopefully many of you will not be faced with a medical or surgical emergency for your pets. This situation can be even more stressful if this occurs outside of your vets’ normal working hours, when they are closed. All vets currently have a legal obligation to provide out-of-hour’s cover for their patients and this work needs to be staffed overnight and on weekends. We are proud to offer our own out-ofhour’s service from Yeovil and Sherborne. We currently share this with one other practice, reducing the frequency of shifts, as this is done in addition to our day jobs without time off in lieu. All other practices in Yeovil currently ask owners to travel out of the area to another veterinary surgery, which in some cases is an hour’s drive away. This can cause distress for pet owners as when

they have a potential emergency, they are being asked to travel long distances when time may be critical to the patients well being. Therefore, we often have pet owners who are not registered with our practice asking to be seen in an emergency situation because either they cannot or do not want to travel to their practices arranged emergency service. Our practice is staffed to cater for the number of pets we see during the day leaving a manageable number of our own pets to be on-call for overnight. There is a concern that if we try and cover patients from all practices, the number of serious emergencies all arriving at the same time could dramatically increase. Also, if our vets are seeing emergencies from other practices as well, they risk becoming exhausted, impacting the service we can

provide during the daytime to our pets and pet owners. We are proud to provide our own out of hour’s service to pets registered with our practice. If you wish to use our out of hour’s service, all we ask is that you register with our practice and use us day to day for all your pets’ needs. This means our practice and number of vets can continue to grow, allowing our out-ofhour’s service to continue to be provided by our own experienced vets and nurses at the same high standards expected. Do you know what your practices out of hour’s arrangements are? It is better to find out now rather than in an emergency. If your veterinary surgery is not providing what you consider to be an adequate service 24hrs a day, from a practice local to you, why not consider moving your pets to a practice that is.

OLD CARPENTRY TOOLS By Barbara Elsmore

Are you, like me, drawn to second hand tool sales? How satisfactory to hold tools used over time by unknown hands and to wonder whose hands they might have been and to speculate on what the tools might have helped create. I have many old carpentry tools including two chisels with my family name ‘Collings’ stamped on the side. The chisels were some of the first tools used by my great grandfather George Collings possibly during the completion of his apprenticeship. He became apprenticed as a carpenter and builder to Henry Hull of Nether Compton. In signing up he had to pledge ‘not to play at Cards or Dice Tables or any other unlawful Games. He shall neither buy nor sell and he shall not haunt Taverns or Playhouses’. Goodness me were there such temptations for a teenager in deepest Dorset in 1862. Henry Hull, his family and the apprentices lived and worked at the forge in Nether Compton. There was a fully working forge and a large covered carpenters’ workshop. There was also a tiled sawpit and at one time Henry Hull’s son operated a steam sawmill on the site.

When Henry Hull retired George Collings took over as carpenter, wheelwright and smith. I discovered a photo of George standing outside the forge surrounded by wheels and carts in David Burnett’s very first book, A Dorset Camera 1855-1914. Upon completion of his apprenticeship George married three years later and he and his wife had seven children. The three sons all followed their father and became skilled carpenters. When Squire John Goodden of Compton House died in 1883 his son took over and set about the rebuilding of the Comptons. During John Goodden’s time Compton House was rebuilt and the surrounding park was landscaped but the new Squire, dismayed at the conditions under which some of the villagers were living, set about the renovation and building of around 28 cottages and houses in Nether and Over Compton. George Collings became the foreman of the forty strong local workforce and I have found newspaper advertisements when he was hiring carpenters and masons. As I walk around the villages today and see many of these lovely properties the tools I have

tucked away at home take on a whole new significance for me. Recently I met a descendant of Henry Hull and she and I were able to visit the old carpenters’ shop in Nether Compton and there we found a vice bolted to the ancient and pitted bench that had been used by Helen’s great, great grandfather Henry Hull and by my great grandfather George what a thrilling moment for the two of us as we each put our hands on the old wooden vice. My great interest in family history has taken me from knowing nothing of the boy who signed the apprenticeship form to the wealth of knowledge I now have about him today. The Somerset & Dorset Family History Society is hoping to start a local Sherborne group, with informal meetings to help people make discoveries about their own past families. If you would be interested in joining us, please contact me via the Conduit or the SDFHS via email: sdfhsmembership@outlook.com 25

LIFESTYLE

INSPIRATIONS FOR THE CURIOUS SHOPPER

By Dawn Woodward, The Emporium, We can’t believe it’s been a little over four years since we firstYeovil opened our front door and launched Waterloo Music! We turned a neglected, empty old shop into a beautiful hub for musicians, filled with a stunning range of instruments, teaching studios and all sorts of essential bits and bobs that keep customers coming back.

Who’s looking forward to some warmer weather?

Neither could weinspiring, have imagined that we’d so many amazing people and had some reallya great times. It’s certainly We’ve busy year ahead with our been The Emporium. With that in mind we’re Spring can be so influencing all meet an enjoyable adventure that we wouldn’t have missed for the world. evening events arranged up right up to aspects of what we do and we’re certainly refreshing our shop interior and our arePlace looking forward to our next homewares section has been given a looking forward to some warmer days So here we are, at the ripe old age of four years old, now with a ‘sister’ shop in Taunton2021! calledWe Bath Music, stocking music event - An Evening With Flic Kierle makeover, with gorgeous new stock for and outdoor living! Whether it’s fashion, fabulous brands, an established team of talented staff and having just completed a refresh of our Yeovil based store. Here you’ll And Friends on 20 Feb from 7pm, which your home. We have a vast collection of interior design or food, the warmer find our amazing guitar and folk instrument departments are all now on our ground floor along with our repairs centre. On the should be amazing. We’ll be serving gorgeous homewares and furniture, the weather affects a lot of what goes on at first floor you’ll find our specialist drum department, music books and our There’s so much to see, call and dinner and drinks throughout, soinwhat photo gives a little glimpse, butteaching there’s rooms. take a look at our new store lay-out, have a chat with our friendly staff, all musicians a great evening this will be. Tickets are so much to see so please come and see themselves, they canaround help all70your playing related queries as be wellquick as accessories, selling fast, so if you’d like to us soon. We have different, repairs teaching. shops within The join us. small,and independent Emporium... that’s why it’s so interesting! you’dBA20 like to1TE. join Tel us at The Emporium Waterloo Music can be found at 16 Hendford, IfYeovil, 01935 507330 or as a trader, the new season is a great Our cafe is getting busier and FB/waterloomusic busier, visit: www.waterloomusic.co.uk time to start a new venture. It is a great both during the day and at our fabulous place to work and trade. Talk to us evening events! Afternoon tea is a firm about the retail units we have available favourite with our customers and we and how we can help you launch or grow regularly host all sorts of special your own business in 2020. We’d love to occasions, such as leaving parties, hen meet you and hear about your business parties, baby showers and birthday plans! Contact us to discuss available parties , all served with our signature options on 01935 411378 and let’s get afternoon tea! So, if you have a special you trading in the heart of the town occasion to celebrate soon, don’t centre in Yeovil. hesitate to contact us and we’ll be very happy to help you with your special The Emporium, 39 Princes Street, Yeovil, event. Afternoon tea is served every BA201EG. afternoon (we’re closed on Sundays) and it’s usually best to book a table and give Tel 01935 411378 us advanced notice, essential for groups www.theemporiumyeovil.co.uk of over four people: £12.95/head. 26

LIFESTYLE

Loving Yourself; Loving Others; Loving Our Planet

By Lynne Franks, OBE., Women’s Empowerment Guru, Author and Owner of the SEED Café and SEED Wellbeing Hub in Wincanton

ebruary has traditionally been the time for celebrating love and romance, all accredited to the medieval priest, St Valentine, who has certainly been a gift to the greetings card industry. But for all those teenage girls, waiting for that special envelope to drop through the letter box as I certainly was many moons ago, there is far more of an awareness these days, thanks to a healthy change in modern attitude, that there is also a need for a different kind of love to be remembered this month. It has to start with ourselves, particularly for women and girls, where lack of self-esteem and selfconfidence is still so prevalent even these days although I am aware that men too need to be reminded that self-care and self-appreciation is important for us all. Every one of us is beautiful inside and out and I believe it is crucial to appreciate and feel that at our deepest level. It is so important to look at ourselves with the ‘lover’s eye’ rather than the ‘critic.’ Why not write yourself some words of admiration this Valentine’s Day, regardless of whether you have a partner or not. You could make a beautiful card to write it in or keep it simple – whatever is going to inspire you to do it. Acknowledge all the wonderful unique gifts you possess in every way. Celebrate your courage, your compassion, your integrity, your creativity, your beauty, your zest for life and your truth. Read out your message to yourself, perhaps while looking in the mirror, out loud, slowly and lovingly. And believe it! After all, love and relationship is about far more than just romance with a significant other. It has to start with self. We are all, fortunately, also being reminded that we need to care and love nature and the environment before it is too late. For those of us enjoying the benefits and advantages

of living in such a beautiful part of the country, it is heartening to see how many towns and villages in the South West are creating initiatives to contribute towards a sustainable lifestyle on our beautiful planet. And of course it is important to create positive friendships and relationships in our communities which is certainly happening in Wincanton, where I have lived for the last few years, running my SEED Hub, Café and Shop. I am delighted to be part of our local initiative led by our visionary Mayor, Susan ShelbournBarrow, where one small town of nearly 6,000 people are working together to create the future of our town through volunteerism, a healthy high street and rewilding many of our beautiful natural spaces. Not that romance is dead here either. At my own SEED Café we will hosting an evening on 14 February of delicious romantically inspired vegetarian dinner, cocktails and music where couples, singles and groups will be serenaded with love and magic. And love is the theme for the weekend too when Bootmakers, who run such successful creative workshops for children, are having a pandering day for little girls while we do the same over the road at SEED, arranging for women to have a natural beauty make-over, receive a beautiful self-portrait and create their own Valentine Card and Message. There will be fun activities all over Wincanton this coming ‘love’ weekend including Coles Yard, Greening the Earth and our other mix of vintage and independent cafes, salons, fashion, gift and food shops. Why not come for a visit and share the ‘love.’ You can find out more about SEED activities at www.hubatno3.com 27

VISUAL ART

From Monday 27 January to Saturday 15 February at Ilminster Arts Centre, the ‘Glorious Gallimaufry’ exhibition brings together a truly exhilarating group of artists. This new exhibition of paintings, photography and sculptures promises to be a real crowd-pleaser, with something for everyone to enjoy in this celebration of the joy and fulfilment that art brings. Featured artists include Mark Beesley, Vanessa Worrall, Peter Carter, Keith Reeves, Aarron Ferns, Jamie Condon, Judy May, Ann Jarrett and Rod West. Gallery is open from Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm, and Saturday 9.30am to 2.30pm. Admission free. For more information, phone 01460 54973 or visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Wednesday 5 February at 3.00pm and at 7.00pm at Digby Hall, The Arts Society Sherborne presents ‘The Making of Landscape Photographs’, an illustrated talk by award-winning photographer Charlie Waite. He shows images from all over the world, from Namibia to his beloved Dorset, delving into the rationale behind each of these photographs. In the modern era of the visual image it is relatively unusual for a photographer to depict beauty for its own sake. Waite’s photographs bridge the gap between raw beauty and art. New members and visitors (£7) welcome. From Monday 17 to Saturday 29 February from 9.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, it is the popular annual ‘Schools go Visual’ exhibition. Every year visitors are impressed by the sheer creative energy and the colourful, imaginative and ingenious works that the young artists bring to 28

this exhibition. Participating schools are: Chard School, Greenfylde Church of England First School, Neroche Primary School, Swanmead School, Strode College, Stanchester Academy, St Mary & St Peter’s C of E Primary School and Shepton Beauchamp primary school. Open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm and Saturday from 9.30am to 2.30pm. Free entry. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

MUSIC

On Thursday 23 January at 6.30pm at the Tindall Recital Hall, Sherborne School, there is a Visiting Artists’ Recital featuring the Dave Newton Trio. Tickets £10 from Sherborne School Reception 01935 812249 or tickets@ sherborne.org. On Friday 24 January at 1.45pm in Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, there is a Woodwind Lunchtime Recital. Free admission - all welcome. On Friday 24 January at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, enjoy Three of the Very Best - three of the bestknown award winning names on the British jazz scene will

appear in what is being billed as one of the top gigs ever to be held at the centre. For this very special evening of easy-going mainstream/ modern jazz, trumpeter Ben Cummings, saxophonist Martin Dale and guitarist Dominic Ashworth join the Craig Milverton Trio. Tickets: Concert £20; Pre-show supper £15 (supper is at 7.00pm and must be pre-booked at least 2 days before the concert). Box Office 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Saturday 25 January at 7.30pm at Chetnole Village Hall, there will be an evening of ‘choro’ music; a rich and uplifting style of instrumental music from Rio de Janeiro. Alvorada, UK’s leading performers of this style, unites top musicians from London and Brazil, whose diverse backgrounds - including jazz, classical and Brazilian music - lend the group a unique edge. Their debut album, First Light, released in May 2019, contains choro classics and original works, revisiting the genre with influences from the UK. Tickets £10, under 18s £8. To book, phone 07966 177789. For more information, visit www.artsreach.co.uk.

By Rachel Mowbray

ARTS

On Saturday 25 January at 7.30pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, join the Somerton Concert Band for its annual New Year’s Concert. Tickets £7, children free! Refreshments in cost of ticket. Doors open 7.00pm. On Saturday 25 January at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, The James Taylor Quartet (JTQ) will take to the stage lead by Hammond organ-guru, James Taylor. For more than 25 years, JTQ have set the standard for the coolest sounds in funky acid jazz. On dozens of critically acclaimed albums and at their legendary live shows both at home and around the world, they have quietly become a byword for distinguished British creativity. In addition to his work with JTQ, James has collaborated with the likes of U2, The Wonderstuff, Manic Street Preachers, The Pogues, as well as with Tom Jones on the multi-platinum album Reload. JTQ are perhaps bestknown and best-loved for their unrivalled live performances. Tickets £19.00/£18.00. Box office 01258 475137. On Saturday 25 January at 8.00pm at The David Hall,

Pip Utton - At Home with Will Shakespeare

Mad Dog Mcrea South Petherton, Steve Knightley is back with his new show ‘Pass Notes - The stories behind the songs’. Following the success of last year’s intimate one-man show, Steve’s latest outing is intended for anyone fascinated by the art and craft of song writing. Exploring his extensive back catalogue and introducing unheard new material, he explores the themes and stories that inspire him. He shows how lyrics, chords and notes can meld to create songs that acquire a life of their own. Tickets £19, no concessions. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@thedavidhall.org.uk or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. On Thursday 30 January at 7.30pm in Sherborne School Chapel, there is a Winter Organ Recital. Free entry. On Friday 31 January at 1.45pm in Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, there is a Soloists’ Lunchtime Recital. Free admission - all welcome. On Friday 31 January at 7.30pm at Evershot Village Hall, listen to the fabulous Devon-based The Neil Maya Quartet - The Brubeck Project playing the cool sounds of one of the greatest jazz bands ever, the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Performing such classics as Blue Rondo A la Turk, Unsquare Dance and of course Take Five, the band will take the audience back to 1959, a golden year for jazz. Neil Maya on saxophone delivers quality accessible music, with a light skilful touch and an air of frivolity. He is joined by some of the most exciting

LIVE PERFORMANCES JAZZ *CLASSICAL* FOLK ART EXHIBITIONS * ART & CRAFT WORKSHOPS LICENSED CAFÉ * CRAFTS SHOP VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

www.themeetinghouse.org.uk Box Office 01460 54973 East Street, llminster TA19 0AN Registered Charity 1117698

Saskia GriffithsMoore jazz musicians working in the South West today. Listen out in the first half for the band’s original compositions and other standards and then all the Brubeck favourites in the second half. Tickets £9, under 18s £6. To book, phone 07867 536754. For more information, visit www. artsreach.co.uk. On Friday 31 January at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, join compere and local folk star Jemima Farey and the rest of her family - mum, dad and her three sisters - for this unique concert. Well-known locally as The Farey Family, together they comprise an extremely practiced sextet of close harmony singers who have delighted audiences across the South West for the last twelve years or more. Jemima will also perform a few solo songs - her uncomplicated delicate guitar work provides the perfect accompaniment for her strong and mesmerising voice. Also featured is BBC2 Young Folk Award Nominee Jack Cookson. Jack, a Devon-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and music producer, combines dry and visceral word play with intricate finger-style guitar arrangements in a unique way. Tickets £10. Café and bar open. Box Office 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk. On Saturday 1 February at 7.30pm at North Cadbury Village Hall, Take Art presents Paprika in concert. Paprika started out as a Balkan band made of classically trained musicians, who also happened to love playing traditional and gypsy music. Their focus is on bringing rare and lost Balkan music back to life through their unconventional formation of two accordions, guitar and percussion, with regular guest members on violin and bass. Fiery melodies and foot-tapping rhythms are interspersed with lilting laments in a whirlwind performance of frenzied dexterity - this is a high-energy musical experience from a very exciting group. Tickets £10, under 18s £5, available from North Cadbury Stores or on 01963 440705 or at www.takeart.org. On Saturday 1 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Mad Dog Mcrea returns to give another fantastic performance. The band’s music blends a mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz and bluegrass. From selfpenned songs of adventure, drinking,

Christian Garrick & The Budapest Café Orchestra love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies - the band never fails to capture its audience with its infectious songs. In constant demand, Mad Dog Mcrea is, in every sense of the word, a live band. The famous purple happy bus is fired up and ready for action, so jump aboard! Tickets £17, concessions £16. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@ thedavidhall.org.uk or visit www. thedavidhall.org.uk. On Saturday 1 February at 8.00pm at The Davis Hall, Cool Country Club is holding its monthly live country music night with live entertainment by Hayley Oliver. Doors open 7pm. Light refreshments available including rolls and snacks, or bring your own refreshments and alcohol. £6.00 on the door. For further information, phone John on 01458 223828 or Jan on 01460 78895 or visit www.cool-country-cwdc.com. On Thursday 6 February at 7.30pm at Norton-sub-Hamdon Village Hall, HamstoneLive presents WOR, a 5-piece band from Flanders, playing saxophone, fiddle, accordion, guitar and bagpipes. WOR has released two albums and toured throughout Europe and America including the famous Shetland Folk Festival, with rave reviews from the 2019 tour. Tickets £10, children £5, available from Norton-sub-Hamdon Village Shop or from John Bailey 01935 881227 or from www.takeart.org. On Friday 7 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, there is a fabulous new concert spectacular ‘Icons: Celebrating The Legendary Divas’. The powerhouse vocals and iconic songs of women in music through the years are performed by an awesome cast of strong female voices, with incredible choreography, stunning vocal arrangements and dazzling costumes. This sensational cast will perform the hits of legends such as Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Dusty Springfield, Cher, Barbra Streisand and many more. Tickets £18.50, concessions £16.50. Box office 01258 475137. On Friday 7 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Megson bring to the stage an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars. Four times 29

ARTS

On Saturday 15 February at 7.30pm at Nether Compton Village Hall, enjoy an evening of music with the BSO Trio of Flute, Viola and Harp. Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra musicians Barbara Brown (flute), Tom Beer (viola) and Eluned Pierce (harp) present a repertoire of trio music featuring Debussy, Leclair and Arnold Bax in a wonderful spring concert. Tickets £12, under 18s £10, available from Martine Dodd (01935 815033 or martine_ buckler@hotmail.com), Clare Hawkins (01935 817993) or online at www.artsreach.co.uk.

The Curious Garden The MakeShift Ensemble

nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards, they draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of Folk music. The husband and wife duo, Debs Hanna (vocals, whistle, piano accordion) and Stu Hanna (guitar, mandola, banjo) have gained fame on the British Folk scene, not only for their arresting and intelligent song-writing but also for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. Tickets £16, concessions £15. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@thedavidhall.org. uk or visit www.thedavidhall. org.uk. On Friday 7 February at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, enjoy a special night with Mike Denham and The Sunset Café Stompers – the South West’s favourite traditional jazz band is 30 years-old this year. During this time, they have been steadily building a reputation that is second to none in the South West, as well as performing up and down the country from Cornwall to Cumbria. Playing the whole jazz spectrum from Scott Joplin’s ragtime to Fats Domino and his Rock ‘n’ Roll, they have always been 30

enthusiastically welcomed. Tickets: Concert £16; Preshow supper £15 (supper is at 7.00pm and must be pre-booked at least 2 days before the concert). Box Office 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk. On Friday 14 February at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, enjoy an evening of jazz with the Nick MacClean Quartet and jazz trumpeter Brownman Ali. This thrilling quartet is led by the 26-yearold star of Toronto’s jazz piano community, Nick, whose style very clearly reflects Herbie Hancock’s Blue Note sound with early influences from Fats Waller, Basie and Ellington. An intriguing gig, modern jazz from Canada, featuring a truly provocative multiaward winning trumpet player, Brownman Ali, whose music ranges covers be-bop, acidjazz, hip-hop, Brazilian Samba and Cuban Salsa, as well as being featured on major motion picture soundtracks, music videos and live television broadcasts. Tickets: Concert £15; Pre-show supper £15 (supper is at 7.00pm and must be pre-booked at least 2 days before the concert). Box Office 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Saturday 15 February at 8.00pm at Meadway Hall, Compton Dundon, there is a concert by The Tom McConville Band Folk Band. Tickets £10, available online at www.wegottickets.com/ event/4880469. For further information, contact Simon Dore on 01458 445463 or at cdvillagehall@gmail.com. On Saturday 15 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Saskia Griffiths-Moore brings her new music and Baez & Dylan ‘throwback folk’ to the stage. She has been featured on Sky TV numerous times, awarded three major grants from Arts Council England, receives regular national radio play, and has just recorded her latest album at Abbey Road Studios. This young rising star is increasingly known for her crystal-clear vocals and melody-led acoustic songwriting. Expect a night of laughs, sincere music and original material. Tickets £14, concessions £13. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@thedavidhall.org. uk or visit www.thedavidhall. org.uk. On Thursday 20 February from 6.45pm at The Emporium Café is an evening of Blues, Soul and Rock & Roll featuring Flic Keirle and special guests. Come along for an evening of incredible food, fantastic themed cocktails and music! Tickets £5 in advance and pay on the night for menu/ drinks. To book, phone 01935 411378, visit the

Facebook page or via The Emporium Cafe. On Friday 21 February at 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Concerts in the West welcomes back Nicholas Mulroy and John Reid, accompanied by mixed-media artist William Lindley. Nicholas (tenor) and John (piano) will perform works from Purcell, WD Browne, Tippett, Britten and Elgar. William’s projected moving images will give a fascinating backdrop to the music. This trio brings together an exciting multisensory fusion of solo piano, vocals and moving images in one recital. Tickets £15, concessions for students and children, unreserved seating. Box Office 01460 54973 or visit www.themeetinghouse. org.uk. On Friday 21 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, ‘Lipstick On Your Collar’ is back with a brand new show with hits from the 50s and 60s. From the birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll to the Beat Group sounds of the British Invasion and beyond, the show is packed with over forty hits from the likes of Connie Francis, Brenda Lee, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Beatles, The Ronettes, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and many more. Performed by a full live band, featuring some of the country’s top musicians, this incredible show features excellent vocals, tight harmonies and an infectious sense of fun. Tickets £19.50. Box office 01258 475137. On Friday 21 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there is a concert by Blue Rose Code with support from Steve Dagleish. A nomad both geographically and musically, Ross Wilson of Blue Rose Code writes from the heart eschewing any specific genre. The 12 new songs on ‘The Water of Leith’, addressing themes of love, loss, travel, home, accepting the past and embracing the future, are painted with colours of soul, jazz, folk and pop, an eclecticism that has become a hallmark of Blue Rose Code, and seen him compared to

ARTS

Megson

Blue Rose Code

www.sherborneartslink.org.uk

Creative Art

Watercolour, Stained Glass, Felted Vessels, Linocut, Wire Sculpture and more Free wellbeing groups: Parkinson’s Dance, Art for Memory, Art for Parents

Visit website for details 01935 815899

Charity no.1007680 Company no.24714382 Funded by Dorset Council and National Lottery Community Fund

John Martyn, Van Morrison and Tom Waits. Steve Dagleish, inspired by the craftsmanship of songwriters Neil Young, John Martyn and Nick Drake, now performs his original songs, interpretations of ‘Trad’ and modern songs, at folk clubs, music venues and festivals. Tickets £18, concessions £17. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@thedavidhall.org. uk or visit www.thedavidhall. org.uk. On Saturday 22 February at 7.30pm at The Dance House, Crewkerne, Concerts in the West welcomes back Nicholas Mulroy and John Reid, accompanied by artist William Lindley. Nicholas (tenor) and John (piano) will perform works from Purcell, WD Browne, Tippett, Britten and Elgar. William’s projected moving images will give a fascinating backdrop to the music. This trio brings together an exciting multisensory fusion of solo piano, vocals and moving images in one recital. Tickets £15, concessions for students and children, unreserved seating. For advance bookings email concertsinthewest@gmail.com or book at https://helmtickets. com/, or buy from Crewkerne Town Hall’s Local Information Office or on the night from 6.45pm. On Saturday 29 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, the UK’s longest running Musical Theatre Concert Tour ‘Beyond the Barricade’ celebrates an incredible 21 Years touring the UK with this brand new show. The concert features David

Fawcett (Valjean) Andy Reiss (Enjolras and Resident Director for the National Tour of Les Miserables) Katie Leeming (Eponine) and Poppy Tierney (Cosette), together with a live band who capture the feel of the original orchestrations of the best of Broadway and the West End, ending with a stunning finale from Les Mis. A musical theatre experience not to be missed! Tickets £23, concessions £22. Box office 01258 475137. On Saturday 29 February at 7.30pm at Norton-subHamdon Church, there is a concert by The Avon & Somerset Constabulary Male Voice Choir. Tickets £7, available from Norton Community Shop or by post (£8) phone 01935 881330. Further details visit www. nortonfestival.org. On Saturday 29 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Christian Garrick & The Budapest Café Orchestra celebrate their 10th Birthday Tour 2009-2019. The BCO was established by British composer and violinist Christian Garrick in 2009. Led by Christian, they play a blistering barrage of traditional folk and gypsy-flavoured music from across the Balkans and Russia, Klezmer laments, Romanian Doinas, Hungarian Czardas and their own unique arrangements. The BCO evokes vivid images of Tzigane fiddle maestros, Budapest café life and gypsy campfires - plus a few surprises along the way, and are hugely entertaining,

demonstrating immense skill and profound musicianship. Tickets £18, concessions £17. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@ thedavidhall.org.uk or visit www.thedavidhall. org.uk. http://www. budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk.

PERFORMANCE From Thursday 23 to Saturday 25 January at 7.30pm at The Davis Hall, West Camel, The Little Barn Theatre Group presents a pantomime favourite ‘Dick Whittington’. There is also a matinée on Saturday 25 January at 2.30pm. Tickets £7, family £20. For more information, contact Sue Agland on 01935 850302 or at sueagland@googlemail. com.

On Friday 24 January at 7.30pm at Buckland Newton Village Hall, Spitz & Co presents ‘Les Gloriables’. Inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic novel ‘Les Miserables’, legendary French actress Gloria Delaneuf has created a comical, life-changing piece of radical theatre - a call to arms. She has dreamed a dream, and her hapless assistant Josephine has promised to build a barricade. Expect a master class in resistance French style - with berets and baguettes! Tickets £9, under 18s £6, family £25. To book, phone 01300 345455. For more information, visit www. artsreach.co.uk. On Saturday 25 January at 7.30pm at Drimpton Village Hall, Spitz & Co presents ‘Les Gloriables’. Inspired by Victor

/TheConduitMag

Hugo’s classic novel ‘Les Miserables’, legendary French actress Gloria Delaneuf has created a comical, lifechanging piece of radical theatre - a call to arms. She has dreamed a dream, and her hapless assistant Josephine has promised to build a barricade. Expect a master class in resistance French style - with berets and baguettes! Tickets £9, under 18s £6, family £25. To book, phone 01308 867241. For more information, visit www. artsreach.co.uk. On Tuesday 4 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, ‘Dance to the Music’ with ex-Strictly Come Dancing professional Kristina Rihanoff. This is a sumptuously beautiful, glamorous dance show created, directed and choreographed by Kristina, with even more fabulous costumes, stunning vocals and breath-taking choreography. She is joined by singing host Jake Quickenden (former Dancing on Ice winner, X Factor star and Hollyoaks newcomer). In addition, the show will include electric performances from South African National Champions and ‘Dancing with the Stars’ professionals Marcella Solimeo and Dylan Daniels, plus other world-renowned professional dancers. Tickets £28, concessions £26, VIP £45 (includes Meet & Greet and a signed programme). Box office 01258 475137. On Saturday 8 February at 8.00pm at Kingsdon Village Hall, Spitz & Co presents ‘Les Gloriables’. Inspired

@conduitmag

ARTS

A Glorious Gallimaufry

Canterbury Tales

Schools go Visual by Victor Hugo’s classic novel ‘Les Miserables’, legendary French actress Gloria Delaneuf has created a comical, life-changing piece of radical theatre - a call to arms. She has dreamed a dream, and her hapless assistant Josephine has promised to build a barricade. Expect a master class in resistance - French style - with berets and baguettes! Tickets £10, under 16s £6, available on 01935 841402, online at eventbrite.co.uk or from Kingsdon Village Shop. For more information, visit www.kingsdon.org. On Saturday 8 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Pip Utton presents ‘At Home with Will Shakespeare’. Pip gives the audience the chance to spend time with the great man; a man who loves, laughs, drinks, sings, dances and cries, and in between is forced to write some plays and poetry to make a living. Will is leading a double life, as a family man

and landowner in Stratfordupon-Avon, and as the great playwright in London. It’s William Shakespeare’s life and his ‘greatest hits’, all performed by Will himself – fun and moving. A favourite at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival! Tickets £10, concessions £9. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@thedavidhall.org. uk or visit www.thedavidhall. org.uk. On Wednesday 12 February at 6.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, SNADS are proud to offer their first relaxed performance of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’. With low level auditorium lights, no loud bangs or flashing lights, it will be particularly suitable for those with Autism, Special Needs and Learning Difficulties who would not normally be able to access live theatre. There will be open access to the Hall during this performance for those needing ‘time out’ and most importantly nobody will mind any noises, calls out

The Rising Sun Chinese takeaway offer delicious traditional Chinese cuisine freshly cooked to order for collection or delivery*. Using the very finest ingredients and setting the highest of standards. Please visit our website for our full menu. We look forward to seeing you. * Conditions apply for delivery service

Monday – Thursday 5.00 pm – 10.00 pm Tuesday CLOSED Friday – Saturday 5.00 pm – 10.30 pm Sunday 5.30 pm – 10.00 pm

61 Princes Street, Yeovil, BA20 1EE • Tel. 01935 476184 www.therisingsunyeovil.co.uk 32

or chatters! Please phone or call in at The Exchange to book and to talk to a member of staff - it will be helpful for them to understand any special requirements (Ie, raked seating or open area), especially if bringing a wheelchair or push chair/ buggy. Tickets £5.00 for this performance only. Box office 01258 475137. From Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, SNADS will celebrate 90 years of amateur productions in Sturminster Newton with the timeless story of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’. The script is based firmly on the original Grimm Brothers’ tale and contains all the familiar characters and elements of a traditional pantomime. There is a matinée performance on Saturday 15 February at 2.30pm. Tickets £10, under 18s £8. Box office 01258 475137. On Friday 14 February at The Abbey, Charlton Adam, celebrate Valentine’s Day with a delightful reading of Love Poetry, kindly hosted by Lord and Lady Zouche. Relax in this stunning venue by an open log fire sipping a chilled glass of fizz, or hot cup of tea if you prefer. The poems will be read by supporters of Project Charltons, Valerie Singleton of ‘Blue Peter’ fame and The Charltons’ very own Romeo aka Mark Freestone. Two performances, from 4.00pm to 5.30pm and 7.00pm to 8.30pm. Tickets £10. Places limited so book now at Charlton Adam Post Office or at info@projectcharltons.org.

From Monday 24 February to Saturday 29 February at 7.30 pm at the Sherborne Studio Theatre, there is a performance of Alan Ayckbourn’s ‘Table Manners’ given by the Amateur Players of Sherborne, directed by John Crabtree. Tickets £10, students £8, available from www.aps-sherborne.co.uk, the Tourist Information Office or phone 07585 278722. On Thursday 27 February at 7.30pm at Gillingham School Theatre, Scratchworks Theatre presents ‘WOMANS (like Romans, but with a W)’. A raucous and hilarious tale of the first female resistance. It’s 44BC, Ancient Rome. The Roman Senate has declared Leta a traitor. She is to be erased from history, her name will be scratched out and forgotten forever - a punishment worse than death! However, with the help from some unexpected muses, she decides to rebel against the Republic... A feast of physical comedy, clowning and original music. Suitable 7+. Tickets £10, under 18s £6, family ticket £28. To book, phone School Library on 01747 833844 or email capub@ gillingham-dorset.co.uk. On Thursday 27 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, the AfricanCaribbean theatre company Tangle Theatre presents ‘Volpone’, a classic satire of cunning and greed. Volpone is rich – filthy rich. For him, the glory of accumulating wealth is more thrilling than its simple possession. In lust for more, he and his assistant, the rascal Mosca, swindle three of the wealthiest men

ARTS

Sunset Café Stompers in the city. Daring trickery and avarice ensue in this bitingly fresh version of Ben Jonson’s comedy. Inspired by Southern African Township Theatre, a multi-skilled ensemble of three actors perform to an enticing backdrop of new and vintage Jazz, delivered with Tangle’s trademark dynamism. Age: suggested minimum 13+. Tickets £15 concessions £14. To book, phone 01460 240340, email boxoffice@ thedavidhall.org.uk or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. On Friday 28 February at 7.30pm at Chetnole Village Hall, there is an evening with poet and humorist, Matt Harvey. Writer, poet, enemy of all that’s difficult and upsetting, Matt’s way with words has taken him from Totnes to the Wimbledon Tennis Championships via Saturday Live, the Edinburgh Festival and the Work section of the Guardian. He is host of Radio 4’s Wondermentalist Cabaret, creator of Empath Man, and author of The Hole in the Sum of my Parts, Where

Nick Maclean Quartet Earwigs Dare and Mindless Body Spineless Mind. He now turns his gaze on to all kinds of dogs and dog owners. Bar and raffle. Tickets £10, from Jackie Jones 01935 873742 (In aid of St Peter’s Church, Chetnole).

amusing and rather rude in places! Tickets: Concert £15; Pre-show supper £15 (supper is at 7.00pm and must be pre-booked at least 2 days before the concert). Box Office 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Friday 28 February at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, The GreenMatthews Players present Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Written in the late 14th century, the tale is based on a disparate group of pilgrims travelling to the shrine of Thomas à Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. They tell each other stories to while away the journey. These stories paint a rich and vibrant portrait of life in medieval England, from the dark and brooding Pardoner’s Tale to the bawdy Miller’s Tale, via the proto-feminism of the Wife of Bath’s Tale and the simple whimsy of the Nun’s Priest’s Tale. Although Chaucer wrote his masterwork over 600 years ago, it still feels contemporary, fresh, easy to understand and extremely

On Saturday 29 February at 7.30pm at Martock Parish Hall, The Langport Mummers will perform a ‘Leap Frog Day’ special, as all their performances are! Sharon Lazibyrds will also sing and play strings. There will be mulled cider and eats to buy. £5. For further information, phone Fergus on 01935 822202.

CHILDREN

On Saturday 25 January at 2.30pm at Cerne Abbas Village Hall, Protein Dance presents ‘The Little Prince’. The incredible story of The Little Prince is retold by a pilot stranded in the desert. Hear how he leaves behind his tiny asteroid and beloved

rose, and journeys through the universe to the baffling world of grown-ups! Who’s ever heard of a king who reigns over nothing? Or a businessman, obsessively counting stars? Upon landing on planet Earth, the Little Prince is welcomed by a mysterious snake and a truly wise fox before encountering the lone pilot. Together they discover the power of friendship and the complexity of love. Brought to life using Protein’s award-winning mix of dance, humour and spoken word, this new show invites the audience to reconnect with their inner child. Tickets £6, under 18s £5, family £20. To book, phone 07823 778758. For more information, visit www. artsreach.co.uk. On Saturday 1 February from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Sherborne Library, come along to ‘Yer a Quizard, Harry!’. This spellbinding event will feature a quiz on the world of Harry Potter and crafts inspired by the Triwizard

Artsreach – The Little Prince

ARTS

The Ark and Dove Michele O’Brien

The Neil Maya Quartet - The Brubeck Project Tournament. For more information, phone 01935 812683. Free entry. On Wednesday 19 February at 11.00am at The David Hall, South Petherton, join The MakeShift Ensemble as they bring to life the awardwinning children’s book ‘The Curious Garden’, which is all about one boy’s quest for a greener world… one garden at a time. While out exploring one day, Liam discovers a struggling garden and decides to take care of it. As time passes, the garden spreads throughout the dark, grey city, transforming it into a lush, green world. An enchanting tale with environmental themes, teaching us that our own care and determination can help change the world. Featuring original music from award winning-musician and member of Kneehigh Theatre, Alex Lupo, and a cast of celebrated storytellers and puppeteers, The Curious Garden is a planet-tending adventure in full bloom for all the family! Tickets £10, under 12s £9. To book, phone 01460 240340, email

boxoffice@thedavidhall.org. uk or visit www.thedavidhall. org.uk. Plus, at 2pm, a onehour Drama Workshop with the company’s performers, based on the themes in the show. Tickets £5. On Thursday 20 February from 10.30am to 11.30am at Sherborne Library, have fun with ‘Tree-mendous Woodland Stories and Crafts’. Come and listen to in-tree-guing stories and join in unbe-leaf-able crafts based on tree-mendous woodlands! And find out about the woodland-themed writing competition. For more information, phone 01935 812683. Free entry. On Thursday 20 February at 4.00pm at St Andrew’s Primary School, Yetminster, Angel Heart Theatre presents ‘Mazymeg and the Honeybees’. Albert lives alone with his beloved honeybees on Dartmoor. One day a stranger steals his bees and the light goes out from Albert’s world. Mazymeg, a little Pisky, then appears and promises to find his bees. Follow Mazymeg and a host of strange and

Mazymeg and the Honeybees - Angel Heart Theatre

On Saturday 22 February at 3.00pm at Sandford Orcas Village Hall, awardwinning storyteller Michele O’Brien weaves her magic in a captivating new show featuring puppetry and dance ‘The Ark and Dove’. This is the story of Mary Jennings a servant woman who, through a treasure of charity shop objects, learns about the adventures of two ships, the Ark and the Dove, a gripping story from the year 1633. Risking everything, she decides to travel across the ocean from the Isle of Wight to America, determined to make a better life for herself. Fantastic storytelling. A must for children. Suitable 7+. BSL interpretation available.

Tickets £7, under 18s £5, family £20. To book, phone 01963 220171. For more information, visit www. artsreach.co.uk.

OTHER

On Sunday 26 January from 7.30pm to 10.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it is the monthly Acoustic Night. The David Hall hands over its professional stage and outstanding acoustics to budding artists of all genres. To secure a performance slot, email folk@chriswatts.org. Just £1 for performers and £2 for audience. Please pay on the door. On Saturday 22 February from 7.30pm to 11.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it is the monthly Acoustic Night. The David Hall hands over its professional stage and outstanding acoustics to budding artists of all genres. To secure a performance slot, email folk@chriswatts.org. Just £1 for performers and £2 for audience. Please pay on the door.

BSO Trio of Flute, Viola & Harp

WOMANS (like Romans, but with a ‘W’) 34

funny characters, as she tries to bring home Albert’s bees. Weaving threads of Devon folklore, an original soundtrack by Dartmoor musicians and shape-shifting puppetry makes this a most enchanting show. Suitable 3+. Tickets £6, under 18s £5, family £20. To book, phone 01935 872430. For more information, visit www. artsreach.co.uk.

MOVIES DOWNTON ABBEY (PG) Set at the turn of the 20th century in an Edwardian English country house, the Crawley family and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives. A royal visit from the King and Queen of England soon unleashes scandal, romance and intrigue leaving the future of Downton hanging in the balance. Featuring Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville and Jim Carter. SHOWING AT Castle Cary on Tuesday 28 January, Caryford Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from The Market House and from Tessa Gayford on 01963 350132 or £6 on the door. Corton Denham on Wednesday 29 January, The Queens Arms, 7.15pm. Tickets £15 (includes a main meal) in advance from 01963 220317 or www.thequeensarms.com. Ditcheat on Thursday 20 February, Jubilee Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5. For information: Geoff Webber 01749 860184. Halstock on Saturday 15 February, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50 from Halstock Shop or on the door. For information: 01935 892485. Hardington Mandeville on Friday 7 February, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores 01935 862363 or £6 on the door. Hinton St George on Saturday 8 February, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Personal Services Store and Dorothy’s Tearoom or £5.50 on the door.

Martock on Saturday 22 February, Parish Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5.50 in advance from Martock News, Moorlands Precinct or £6 on the door. Odcombe on Monday 3 February, Village Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5 in advance from 07934 737104 or £6 on the door. Sherborne on Wednesday 12 February, Digby Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. In advance from TIC 01935 815341 or on the door if available. Somerton on Saturday 29 February, Parish Rooms, 7.30pm. Tickets £6, in advance from Cobbs, Brunel Precinct. South Petherton on Friday 14 February, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. Sturminster Newton on Saturday 1 February, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5. West Camel on Friday 31 January, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. West Lydford on Friday 14 February, Fosse Parish Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.

JUDY (12A)

Thirty years after starring in ‘The Wizard of Oz’, actress and singer Judy Garland (Renée Zellweger) arrives in London to perform sold-out shows at the ‘Talk of the Town’ nightclub. Whilst there, she reminisces with friends and fans, and begins a whirlwind romance with musician Mickey Deans, her soon-to-be fifth husband. SHOWING AT Corton Denham on Wednesday 5 February, The Queens Arms, 7.15pm. Tickets £15 (includes a main meal) in advance

MOVIES

AROUND THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES from 01963 220317 or www.thequeensarms.com. South Petherton on Friday 24 January, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. Sturminster Newton on Thursday 20 February, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5.

KNIVES OUT (12A)

When renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday, the inquisitive and debonair Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is mysteriously enlisted to investigate. From Harlan’s dysfunctional family to his devoted staff, Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self-serving lies to uncover the truth behind Harlan’s untimely death. A great whodunit that’s unpredictable and extremely funny. SHOWING AT Kingsbury Episcopi on Thursday 6 February, Community Centre, 7.30pm. Tickets £5, under 16s £2. For information: 01935 823298. Milborne Port on Friday 21 February, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Wayne the Butcher or £5.50 on the door. South Petherton on Friday 31 January, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5.

OUR MAN IN HAVANA

An unsuccessful vacuumcleaner salesman in Havana accepts a job with the Intelligence Service to pay for his teenage daughter’s costly tastes. He invents a series of assistants, counter-spies and secret information, but then real life starts to resemble his fiction! A classic comedy starring Alec Guinness and

Maureen O’Hara. (1959) SHOWING AT Sandford Orcas on Friday 24 January, Village Hall, 7.30pm.

SORRY WE MISSED YOU (15)

Ricky and his family have been fighting an uphill struggle against debt since the 2008 financial crash. An opportunity to wrestle back some independence appears with a shiny new van and the chance to run a franchise as a self-employed delivery driver. It’s hard work, and his wife’s job as a carer is no easier. The family unit is strong but when both are pulled in different directions everything comes to breaking point. Director, Ken Loach, is unafraid to champion working class heroes with evocative narratives and new faces. The subject matter may be grim but the storytelling is utterly compelling. SHOWING AT Martock on Saturday 25 January, Parish Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5.50 in advance from Martock News, Moorlands Precinct or £6 on the door.

STYX (12A)

Rike (Susanne Wolff) is a successful emergency doctor in Cologne but has a long-held dream to sail her yacht solo from Gibraltar to Ascension Island in the Atlantic. After a storm and an encounter with a stricken boat loaded with refugees, her trip takes a very different course. She tries her best to help but as time goes by the situation worsens and Rike has to face impossible moral decisions. Very tense, convincing and thoughtprovoking, with little dialogue - all the action is on the screen. (English and German with subtitles).

Downton Abbey 12 Wednesday 12 February 7.30pm

Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne DT9 3AA Tickets £6 in advance from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre 01935 815341 or on the door if available

www.sherborneartslink.org.uk

Charity no 1007680 Company no 2471382

MOVIES

MUSIC

SHOWING AT Batcombe on Friday 21 February, Jubilee Hall, 7.45pm. For information or guest tickets phone 01749 850307.

THE CURRENT WAR (12A)

The dramatic story of the cut-throat race to determine whose electrical system would power the modern world. Celebrity inventor, Thomas Edison (Benedict Cumberbatch), on the verge of bringing electricity to Manhattan with his radical new DC technology, has his plans upended by charismatic businessman George Westinghouse (Michael Shannon) and his partner, upstart genius Nikolai Tesla (Nicholas Hoult), who believe they have a superior idea for how to rapidly electrify America - with AC current. As Edison and Westinghouse grapple for who will power the nation, they spark one of the first and greatest corporate feuds in American history. SHOWING AT South Petherton on Friday 28 February, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. Yetminster on Tuesday 4 February, Jubilee Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6, from the Spar Shop.

THE GOOD LIAR (15)

Career con-artist Roy Courtnay (Ian McKellen) has set his sights on his latest mark: the recently widowed Betty McLeish (Helen Mirren), worth millions. And Roy means to take it all. As Betty opens her home and life to him, Roy is surprised to find himself caring about her. What should be a cut-and-dry swindle turns into the most treacherous tightrope walk of his life - revealing more insidious deceptions that will take them both through a minefield of danger, intrigue and betrayal. SHOWING AT Castle Cary on Tuesday 25 February, Caryford Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from The Market House and from Tessa Gayford on 01963 350132 or £6 on the door. Norton-sub-Hamdon on Tuesday 11 February, The Lord Nelson, 7.30pm Tickets from 01935 881227. West Camel on Friday 28 February, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door.

THE GUILTY (15)

A totally compelling and gripping thriller set in Copenhagen. Deskbound police officer, Asger Holm, responds to an emergency call from a kidnapped woman but the call is abruptly disconnected and so begins the search. Confined to the station, Holm has to use his skill and intuition in the race against time to try to locate the woman and her assailant. As the investigation progresses, the audience slowly learns about the incident that confined him to desk duties… (Danish with subtitles). SHOWING AT Batcombe on Friday 7 February, Jubilee Hall, 7.45pm. For information or guest tickets phone 01749 850307.

Music Gigs

All Music Gigs are FREE entry unless mentioned.

JANUARY

24 Grouvecat, Acoustic Rock, The Railway Hotel, Yeovil, 9.00pm 25 Caught On The Back Foot, Classic Rock, The Globe Inn, Somerton, 9.00pm Chill, Covers 60s to 90s, White Hart, Crewkerne, 9.30pm James Hollingsworth, Acoustic Blues/Folk/Rock, The George Hotel, Castle Cary, 8.00pm Karma Alarm, Covers, The Armoury, Yeovil, 9.00pm Kingfisher, Acoustic Covers, The Stonemasons, Ilminster, 9.00pm The Diamonds, Covers 60s/70s, Yeovil Labour Club, 8.00pm The Furious Pussies, Classic Gold 50s to 70s, Coopers Mill, Yeovil, 9.00pm 31 Karma Alarm, Covers, The Bear Inn, Wincanton, 9.00pm Powercut, Acoustic/Electric Rock/Pop, The Westminster, Yeovil, 9.30pm Ross Kirk, Rock Covers, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 9.00pm

FEBRUARY 1 7

Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.30pm Project 17, Pop/Rock, The Arrow, Yeovil, 9.00pm Raising Cain, Classic Rock, The Bull Inn, Ilchester, 9.00pm Bowie Fashion, Tribute Band, Fleur De Lis, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, 9.00pm ReD, Rock/Pop, The Westminster, Yeovil, 9.15pm 8 AC/ZZuk, AC/DC & ZZ Tribute Band, The Railway Hotel, Yeovil, 9.30pm Unknown Identity, Covers & Original, The Bell Inn, Yeovil, 9.15pm 9 Marnie, Covers & Originals, The Lord Nelson, Norton-subHamdon, 3.30pm 15 Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.30pm Black River Sinners, Yeovil Labour Club, 8.30pm Frank Martino, Swing, The Lord Nelson, Norton-sub-Hamdon, 8.00pm Unknown Identity, Covers & Originals, The Westminster, Yeovil, 9.15pm 21 Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, The Railway Hotel, Yeovil, 9.00pm 22 Area 51, Rock Covers, The Westminster, Yeovil, 9.30pm Caught On The Back Foot, Classic Rock, Half Moon Inn, Stokesub-Hamdon, 9.30pm John de Barra, Covers 60s to present, The King William Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm Powercut, Acoustic/Electric Rock/Pop, The Old Barn Club, Yeovil, 9.30pm 28 Cover All Bases, Covers, The Preston, Yeovil, 8.30pm Grouvecat, Acoustic Rock, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, The Westminster, Yeovil, 9.00pm 29 Blackout City, Rock/Pop, The Westminster, Yeovil, 9.00pm D-State, Covers 70s to present, The Armoury, Yeovil, 9.00pm Killer T Cells, Covers 70s to 90s, The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet, 8.30pm

MUSIC

DRUMMING UP SOME BUSINESS By Ross Owen Williams, Presenter on Radio Ninesprings, 104.5fm

A MUSICAL NOTE!

By Ryan Leese, Manager of Waterloo Music As evidenced by our recently released Best of Radio Ninesprings CD, Yeovil’s thriving music scene is underscored by the quality and quantity of original music being produced by local artists. Now drummer par-excellence Nick Hartland has created a new option for those wanting to create their own tracks by opening his own recording studio, The Kennel.

Although we love our work here at Waterloo Music, there’s no denying that the musical instrument sector is facing tough times, every week we hear of yet another music shop closing down somewhere, casualties of the change of our buying behaviours.

“I’ve always wanted to have my own space since my very first visit to a studio – I find music production fascinating, such a special area within music. Also, being a drummer myself, it’s priceless to have a dedicated space available where I can practice on an acoustic kit, as well as teaching my students.” Though originally occupied by a vintage furniture upholsterer, when Nick found out the space was available he immediately saw the potential. “A friend knew I was looking for a suitable location to develop my idea and let me know about this place near Ilminster. The ceiling height immediately sold it to me as I knew it would be acoustically perfect and a great place to create professional release quality tracks, whether through multitracking or entirely live sessions.” 18 months after initially viewing the venue, with a little help from close friends but mostly through solo graft, the empty unit had been transformed into The Kennel, Nick’s own purpose built recording studio. The space is also used as a film studio for online drum lessons and product reviewers, including Drum.Dog. “So far, I’ve had Ralph Rolle from Chic deliver online video sessions, as well as a live demo session with local band Duskwood, and I’ve got sessions lined up soon with Unburier and Ruby & The Rockets, so 2020 is going to be an exciting year.”

So, when we first opened the doors to our music shop, Waterloo Music, we were really keen to be specialists in our field and to provide expert, credible advice to our customers. Whether they be complete beginners or gigging, professional musicians, we like to provide meaningful and helpful guidance, going the extra mile to support customers with their instruments, accessories and servicing. And that’s what we continue to do, week in, week out. This really is the value of buying in-store: the honest advice, expertise and the ability to try before you buy, cannot be found when purchasing on-line. On top of that, we can repair, set-up and service your instruments in our own workshop and our teaching department offers a range of lessons for students of all ages and abilities. On a personal level, all of our staff love the music industry, this really does show in their work; they all perform regularly In their various bands, teach and are partial to a spot of retail therapy when new stock arrives in store. Our staff will always be here to advise you!

Nick still has limited availability for anyone looking for drumming lessons, so if you’d like to enquire about this, or about producing your own tracks in his studio, please do get in touch with him to find out more about The Kennel at nickhartlandmusic@gmail.com.

Tel: 01935 507330 shop@waterloomusic.co.uk 16 Hendford, Yeovil, Somerset www.waterloomusic.co.uk FB/waterloomusic 37

FOOD & DRINK

A VINTNER’S TALE (ACT 1, SCENE 2) By Peter Law, Chairman & MD at Wine Wizzard, Castle Cary Premonitions… In the late 1950’s (still a teenager), my sister’s husband was doing National Service near Crewkerne and their first child was born. So, having looked at the map and seen it was all downhill (!) I cycled from near Chester to near Kingsbury Episcopi. I fell in love Linda Fogg & with Somerset, its historical Wine Wizzard architecture and very welcoming dog Sky people. … having lost both jobs, and wanting to stay in the wine trade, I spent the last of my money buying an Austin Somerset for £80. I slept on the back seat and had an old typewriter in the front and started applying for jobs. My father, a retired naval commander, said I was stubborn – to which I said I was determined. I well remember an interview with Berry Bros & Rudd in St James’s, up in London. The MD asked what school I had been to and on my replying, he said that I didn’t look as though I went there. I already knew that I hadn’t got a job, but he did explain that there were three sorts of opportunities: first, men who worked in the cellars at £10 a week; second, working in the shop at £15 a week or third, a director. I immediately answered, “Director!” It could have been down to my goatee beard. This was still in the bowler hat era… I had a short-lived job as a van salesman, trying to sell Portuguese rose wine, footballs, alabaster table lamps and exploding Irish sausages. I lived above a doctor’s surgery in Islington and on several nights a week unloaded the van into the waiting room and did the night shift moving drums, guitars and amplifiers to various gigs in and around London. I eventually took a job as a cellar man and van driver for Justerini & Brooks in Bond Street, thinking I might be able to work my way up from the bottom. So, ex-public school boy meets ex-south London teddy boys – some great and unexpected friendships! In those days, I knew London like a black cab driver: I delivered to Buckingham Palace, to Winston Churchill amongst many others. One time, I had to deliver to Shirley Bassey at a Kensington Mews address. She came to the door wearing a towel which promptly fell to the floor. Not batting an eyelid, she politely asked me to leave the wine in a corner. Lifelong fan! Later that same day, I delivered wine to Lord Boothby at No 1 Eaton Square. “Put it over there, boy”, followed by - in today’s terms – an inappropriate gesture. I

The Mitre Inn

Sandford Orcas

Nr Sherborne, DT9 4RU

01963 220271 FREEHOUSE

Allen & Cheryl welcome you with a cosy bar & great food. Wed to Fri - Senior Citizens 2 course lunch £11.00 Sunday Roast - £9.95 Adult, £8.95 OAP and £6.50 children 2 En-suite double rooms now available Tuesday - Saturday 11.30 - 2.30, 7.00 - 11.00 Sunday 12.00 - 3.00, 7.00 - 10.30 (Monday drinks only 7.00 - 11.00) 38

www.MitreInn.co.uk

turned round and hit him – which, with hindsight, was foolish as he was a big man and, I later found out, a friend of the Kray twins, not to mention my own MD. Time to find another job… … fifty plus years on, at Wine Wizzard, we are often asked for sulphite-free wine. Sulphur dioxide is often added to most wines, as it is an antioxidant (i.e. it helps prevent wine from oxidising!). I have access to sulphite-free wine in Bordeaux which is excellent, but there is no guarantee of its longevity. However, we do stock an organic red Bordeaux ‘7ha’ – the chateaux owner has so far converted seven hectares to organic and is working on the slow process to convert the rest of his vineyards. We also have an organic Cairanne from Rhone, plus a Chateauneuf du Pape which is organic, vegetarian and vegan. The following in stock are vegetarian and vegan: a Malbec from Argentinia; a Chablis and a Chablis 1er Cru; four wines from Alsace including Gewurztraminer. From the Loire there’s a Touraine Sauvignon Blanc and Pinto Noir, and a domainebottled Muscadet Sur Lie. For vegetarians: three reds from Languedoc and a domainebottled Sancerre. Fallet Dart champagne, whose vineyards have been in the same family for over 400 years, produce excellent vegan wines which we import. Finally, our house wines and others from the same chateaux are produced by chemical-free agriculture. Enjoy, whilst we await the Spring flowers!

FOOD & DRINK

Food & Drink

A SPICY SURPRISE IN WEST COKER Conduit Editor Jane Adkins reviews West Coker’s new Indian restaurant

and a maple glaze, and defy anyone not to want to eat a whole mound of them. With a substantial sounding main course just around the corner, I managed to control myself and am pleased I did because the Ginger Pig with a sweet ginger and cider jus didn’t just come on its own. Every main meal is also accompanied by a choice of three different, freshly made breads (chapati, mini naan or paratha) plus rice, Kachumber salad and lentil soup. My dining companion tried Khrish’s Keema which is a minced beef curry containing a blend of Khrish’s favourite spices and infused with onions, tomatoes and petit pois. He had started the meal with Goose Samosa from nearby Goose Slade Farm, reflecting the chef’s policy of sourcing locally produced food. I nearly forgot to mention the three delicious home-made chutneys accompanying the food and moreish enough to eat by themselves! There is a wide range of vegetarian food on the menu too as you would expect from a cuisine that takes its inspiration from a largely vegetarian area of India. Don’t expect the usual curry menu when you visit West Coker’s fabulous Indian restaurant; it is fair to say it lives up to its name of Alternative Indian because you will be pushed to find the usual chicken tikka masala or vindaloo featuring on the relatively succinct menu. Instead expect enticing dishes introducing you to a world where spices enliven innovative home cooked Indian dishes, made with locally sourced produce, that lead my fellow taster to announce it was the “best Indian I have ever tasted”.

We finished off with some delicious desserts including traditional Indian doughnuts and ice cream and a fabulous raspberry and pistachio tart that had a beautiful “perfumed” taste that reminded me a little of Turkish Delight. Will we be back again? You bet! And I have a special treat for Conduit readers as Khrish is offering 10% off menu prices to anyone visiting the restaurant this month. Offer valid until the end of February. Find out more about the Alternative Indian at: http://www.thealternativeindian.com/

Taking her inspiration from the home cooked dishes of her large extended family from Gujarat on the western side of India, Khrish didn’t immediately decide to become a chef, instead spending 10 years working in the human/wildlife ecology and conservation sectors followed by a 10 year career in the civil service. However eventually her passion to showcase the food of her forbears in a way that was both ethical and sustainable lead to the creation of Alternative Indian, open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings and for group bookings of 10 or more on any day as well as private catering on or off site. Her strong beliefs in sustainability extend to the creation of shiny refillable tiffin take away containers which are available for just £10 and can be washed and brought back to be filled with more of her special brand of tasty Indian food. What’s more she has also introduced a “no food waste” programme which ensures any food left over from the Saturday service goes to the staff at Yeovil Ambulance Station. But what of that tasty food – what’s it like? The evening I visited I tried the crispy Spicy Chicken Wings with garlic, ginger and chilli

✂

Khrish Preston is the chef and owner behind this small East to East restaurant on West Coker’s East Street that shares its premises with a lively bar ensuring a pleasant atmosphere that serves up just enough cultural fusion to appeal to locals and those from further afield who have discovered what is surely one of the best kept secrets in South Somerset.

10% off all food

prices on the menu!

Please call 07940735263 or 01935863929 for enquires or bookings East-to-East 1 East Street West Coker BA22 9BE 39

FOOD & DRINK

THE LAUNCH OF THE CURRY QUEEN PODCAST

By Sarah Ali Choudhury

Learn to cook authentic Indian food in real time with The Curry Queen Podcast Multi award winning Indian food expert Sarah Ali Choudhury has teamed up with Podcast Labs and tells Conduit readers how together they are bringing you the innovative and exciting Curry Queen Podcast. Sarah explains how this incredible podcast idea is aimed at helping Indian food lovers achieve delicious food in the comfort of their homes. ‘People ask me how I achieve delicious Indian flavours and they’re floored when I tell them how easy it is to achieve. ‘You don’t need fancy skills or qualifications. I’m not a commercial chef. Not even close. I’m talking zero formal qualifications. I hold a few hygiene and food allergy certificates however, I have a passion for authentic, healthy and easy to create Indian food. All you need do is listen to our Podcast with the ingredients at hand and follow our step by step guide. By the end of the podcast you’ll have a delicious, mouthwatering dish you can devour. It’s a no-brainer.’ Sarah has been featured in hundreds of cookery demonstrations all over the country with her authentic recipes handed down to her from family and through research.

Our food columnist Sarah Ali Choudhury is a TV Chef, Multi Award Winner and Indian food expert. Her recipes and articles have featured in print and online publications locally, nationally and internationally including Forbes, The Sun, The Telegraph, Independent and various others. Sarah presented BBC’s Inside Out highlighting female chefs in the UK which was translated and went global on BBC World News. Her work has been highlighted by Forbes who recognise her as ‘The Curry Queen’ and as a leader for Asian women in Catering. Sarah recently partnered with chef extraordinaire, Sanjeev Kapoor in India to promote his Wonderchef brand in UK and is planning to visit India very soon. You can connect with Sarah on twitter at @saraheasycurry and through social media channels Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube @Sarah Ali Choudhury. www.sarahalichoudhury.com 40

Media publications including Forbes, The Independent, The Sunday Post, Asian World, Asian Voice and many more refer to Sarah for advice about Indian food. ‘I can tell you this, there’s no big secret behind it. I have the ‘inside connections’ and I certainly don’t pay for the privilege of going bigger with my message’ says Sarah. ‘Leveraging the media is how I built my business from scratch, and I still haven’t found a better way to grow my audience than sharing my knowledge. We really want our audience to get involved and try cooking at home. Send us your pictures of your food or videos of you trying it out, give us comments and feedback and help us to help you achieve perfect cooking results.’ Sarah explains the benefits of working with people who understand how to make a professional podcast. ‘Podcast Labs amplify your brand through the power of audio and so working closely with Andy and Kelly has been paramount to the success of the launch of The Curry Queen Podcast. ‘They have helped me in planning original content, the sound quality is phenomenal and they are actively helping me grow my audience while building my brand. It really helps that they also love Indian food and Andy in particular loves cooking. It’s a match made in heaven! Kelly has worked within branding and marketing and really knows exactly how to grow brands and market them. I’m thrilled to be working together with them both.’ Register to receive the first episodes and ingredients lists straight to your inbox when The Curry Queen Podcast launches. http:// sarahalichoudhury.com/curry-queen-podcast/

FOOD & DRINK

20% Discount on food with this voucher

(Eat in only not valid with any other oï¬&#x20AC;er , Expired 28/2/20)

Lopen Raj

www.lopenraj.co.uk 01460 242566 41

FOOD & DRINK

THE QUEENS ARMS AT CORTON DENHAM WELCOMES WINTER GUESTS AND VISITORS! Come and Stay Come and stay in one of our eight elegant rooms with a view, or hire our New Piggery Barns – our two semidetached Cottages that can sleep up to 6 with 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms

Each full week booked will receive a welcome hamper and logs for the log burner to give you a warm cosy welcome to your holiday. Why is a meal at The Queens Arms so good – here’s three reasons!

Our farm

Whether you choose one of our onsite en suite rooms, or whether you hire one of our New Piggery Barns, Corton Denham is surrounded by beautiful Dorset countryside for you to explore and enjoy whilst taking advantage of our great, locally sourced food and drink throughout your stay.

Situated two miles from The Queens Arms is our smallholding, our fare has grown steadily over the past few years. Our chickens roam freely in the field by day before spending the night tucked up in their sheds on fresh grass and hay. We have a mix of Gloucester Old Spot and Saddleback cross pigs that live in a two and half acre paddock and enjoy a diet of surplus milk, fruit and vegetables. In addition we have a pampered herd of Belted Galloways and Jersey cows and we are looking forward to them becoming a more substantial element of our farm over the next two years.

Holiday Cottage Offers

Kitchen Garden

Why not look to get away in the new year and do some leisurely walking amongst the Somerset/Dorset Hills and stay in one of our fully equipment holiday cottages. Each cottage can sleep up to 8/6 people and have three ensuite bedrooms, an open plan living, dining and kitchen with a log burning stove and a boat room, ideal for those muddy dogs and wellington boots.

Several years ago we formed a strong partnership with our neighbour to provide us with locally grown seasonal fruit and vegetables from their walled kitchen garden. Head Chef works with them to plant outstanding produce which is used daily in our kitchen.

Seven night stays available during Jan, Feb and March at £500 per week, short breaks Friday-Monday or Monday to Friday also available at £400 per stay.

Three years ago we established our own herb garden. Chefs and staff pop out on a regular basis to collect parsley, fennel, mint, rosemary and thyme for cooking or garnishes.

Herb Garden

Introducing… our new Vegan Menu!

Corton Denham, Sherborne, Somerset DT9 4LR

Burns Night

Sunday 26th Jan at 7pm 3 course meal, wee dram, piper and addressing the haggis £40 pp

Pub landlady Jeanette Reid says, “The provenance and sustainability of our food is paramount to us and ensuring our food is measured in metres not miles has been our philosophy for over ten years. We have over the past few months recognised the importance of what’s happening across the wider food chain and feel a natural step for us to take is an introduction of a vegan menu to recognise that meat is not always the only way forward and a balanced diet with nutritional fibres and plant sources can lead to a healthy lifestyle for us all.”

Film nights

Weds 29th Jan at 7.15pm Downton Abbey Weds 5th Feb at 7.15pm Judy

Tickets for Burns Night and Film Night on sale via our website

Valentine’s Day

Friday 14th Feb Valentines Night room packages – Dinner, Bed & Breakfast from £200 per room

Eight 5 AA Star letting rooms 2 AA Rosette Food

Food Times

12-3pm, 6-9pm seven days per week

Tel: 01963220317 | Email : relax@thequeensarms.com Web: www.thequeensarms.com

The Queens Arms

Drink eat sleep

to start Braised beetroot, candied walnuts, beetroot puree, agave syrup Queens Arms soup, sourdough to follow... Charred cauliflower steak, red cabbage slaw, sweetcorn salsa, coriander, tapenade Chickpea, spinach & coconut curry, brown rice Wild mushroom & lentil terrine, roasted cauliflower, kale, cauliflower puree to finish Dark chocolate brownie, strawberry sorbet Banana loaf, rum macerated banana, candied walnuts, blood orange sorbet

Health

& Wellbeing

HEALTH & WELLBEING

MASSAGE:

GET IN TOUCH WITH ITS MANY BENEFITS by Shannon Miles LMT, BCST, Oxley Sports Centre Massage can be a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being. As a massage therapist in the Treatment Room at Oxley Sports Centre, many of my clients suffer from stress related tight muscles, back, neck and shoulder pain, and from sports injuries. Brush aside any thoughts that massage is only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. To the contrary, massage can be a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are just looking to relieve stress.

What specific conditions can massage therapy help? Massage is generally considered part of complementary and integrative medicine and is increasingly being referred by medical professionals as a standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations such as, (but not limited to):

•

Relief for tight muscles (knots)

•

Sports injuries

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Myofascial pain syndrome

•

Joint pain

•

Release of nerve compression (carpel tunnel, sciatica)

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Greater flexibility and range of motion

•

Digestive disorders

•

Anxiety

•

Fibromyalgia

•

Headaches

Massage helps relax muscle tissue, which may lead to decreased nerve compression, increased joint space, and range of motion. This may lead to reduced pain and improved function. Massage therapy may also improve circulation, which enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle cells. These circulatory effects of massage may have value in the treatment of some inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis or edema (an excessive accumulation of fluid in body tissues, which may be reduced using manual lymph drainage). Massage therapy is also thought to induce a relaxation response, which lowers the heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure; boosts the immune system; and generally decreases the physical effects of stress because it often

produces feelings of caring, comfort and connection. While more research is needed to confirm the benefits of massage, some studies have found massage may also be helpful for:

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Improved mood

•

Lessening of depression

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Reduced anger and aggression

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Improved sleep patterns and decreased sleep disturbance

•

Reduced fatigue

Some forms of massage can leave you feeling a bit sore the next day. But massage shouldn’t ordinarily be painful or uncomfortable. If any part of your massage doesn’t feel right or is painful, speak up right away. Most problems come from not communicating with your therapist. It is important to select a therapist who demonstrates sensitivity and an understanding of your conditions or symptoms Despite its benefits, massage isn’t meant as a replacement for regular medical care. Discuss the pros and cons of massage with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, being treated for cancer, or have an unexplained pain or just had surgery. Oxley therapists have advanced massage training in many modalities and would be pleased to provide you with an effective treatment protocol that will complement other treatments/efforts you are following in order to reduce or eliminate symptoms. 43

HEALTH & WELLBEING

THE A-Z OF SHERBORNE SPORTS CENTRE By Gary Shackle, Sherborne Sports Centre Aquafit These classes are high energy and fun workouts, in which you perform a range of aerobic movements in water: ideal for fat burning, stamina and stress free resistance training. BMI Body Mass Index is calculated by looking at your height and body weight to come up with a sum that indicates how healthy you potentially are. An ideal BMI is between 20-25. Cardio Short for Cardiovascular, this form of exercise will get the heart pumping and blood flowing quickly. Running, swimming, cycling…you name it, you can do it at the Centre. Downward Dog The downward dog is a yoga pose, intended to stretch through the spine and limbs. This practice is commonly used in our Dynamic Yoga and FlexACise classes.

Endurance training Intended to increase a person’s maximum exercise capacity (endurance or stamina). Come and train with us for one of our endurance events in 2020 - 10K in March or our Sprint Triathlon in June. Free Weights Weights that stand free, unfixed from a piece of equipment. Dumbbells, barbells and kettle bells are all examples of free weights. We have weights ranging from 1kg - 42.5kg at the Centre. Glutes Often used to describe the gluteus maximus muscles in the bottom. Exercises which work the glutes include squats, lunges and leg press. HIIT High Intensity Interval Training involves exercising at maximum effort for very short periods (then followed by a small timed rest period).

Insulin A hormone produced by the pancreas which plays an integral role in metabolism, and is released in response to the absorption of glucose. If not regulated can cause type 2 Diabetes. Jumping jacks This exercise is often used in cardiovascular workouts, and is a similar movement to the star jump, but your arms are taken above your head. Come and try them out at one of our Bootcamps. Kettlebell A cast-iron weight which looks like a bowling ball with a handle. Give our Kettlecise class a go and see how versatile it is. Lactic Acid Lactic acid is the organic acid that’s produced by the body when you work your muscles hard. A build- up of lactic acid is what causes your muscles to fatigue during a workout. Mountain Climbers An aerobic exercise also used in our bootcamps and high energy classes. It is performed in a press up position, but you bring each knee as close to the chest as possible. Narrow Bench Press By bringing the hands closer together on the bench press, it forces the Triceps to work harder but puts less strain on elbow joints. Obliques The oblique muscles are located at the sides of the abdomen, beneath the rib cage. Abdominal classes and Pilates can focus on these muscle groups. Plyometrics Plyometric exercises involve rapid and explosive muscle movements, that can work the whole body. Different jumping actions and types of bounding are great examples. Quads The Quadriceps are a group of muscles found at the front of the thigh. These muscles are used in a range of movements such as walking, running, jumping and squatting.

Reps Reps is short for repetitions. Reps define the number of times to perform an exercise. Spinning An indoor cycling fitness class that is great for improving cardiovascular fitness and burning calories. Although challenging, but with the right instructor and music it can be a whole lot of fun too! Target heart rate Refers to the desired number of beats the heart makes in one minute. This number, then relates to a desired intensity level when performing exercise. Upper body workout Muscles in the upper body, such as the shoulders, back, chest and arms can be worked using fixed weight machines, free weights, bench press units and bodyweight exercises. All are available at the Centre. V02 Max Refers to the maximum amount of oxygen a person’s body is capable of utilising during intense exercise. V = volume; O2 = oxygen; max = maximum. Warm up This essential part of any activity is a series of movements and stretches, used to get the body ready for exercise and to help reduce the risk of injury. X-Crunch This bodyweight exercise is performed lying on the back and with alternating movements. One foot and the opposite hand are brought together above the body by engaging the abdominal muscles. Yoga Its origins lie in ancient India over 5000 years ago, but it is now a popular exercise throughout the world. There are many types of yoga including Ashtanga, Iyengar, Vinyasa and Hatha to name but a few. Zumba It was developed by a Colombian dancer Alberto Perez in the 1990s and has proven popular ever since because many people find it such a fun way to burn calories with friends.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Bargain Hunters Corner

If an item/items are valued at more than £200 there will be a £6 charge. Wanted adverts are also charged at £6. Large oven to table glazed terracotta casserole pots, both with lids and 2 handles each. One of pots capacity is over 5 pints and one is 3 pints. Condition unused.

£45.00. Vintage cobalt blue glass table set on chrome stand with carry handle. Bowl with spoon and jug with pouring lip. Superb condition and unused. £25.00. Vintage Cona glass coffee maker with separate glass serving jug. Vacuum principal, so no need for electric. New wick and excellent condition. £40.00. Vintage 10 inches tall cut glass crystal vase with petal shape top. As new £20.00. Heavy cast iron vintage shoemakers anvil which can be used as a doorstop. Has 3 different sized feet, unusual as most have 2. Excellent condition. £15.00. Natural wicker linen basket with attached lid and 2 carry handles. Height 24 inches, diameter 18 inches. Basket is unused. £15.00. Tel: 01935 824029 Vintage terracotta plant pots. Various sizes all in good condition. Photos available. from £10.00 per lot. Tel: 01460 55105 Chesterfield Sofa, perfect condition in ultramarine blue linen. 1.5 mtrs wide £120.00 Tel: 01458 223232

Write Your Life Story

EMOTIONAL CLUTTER INTO THE GUTTER!

By Niki Cassar

January and February are months when many people feel gloomy and despondent. Christmas has come and gone, your bank account is empty and your credit card statement has sent you reeling with shock. The days are short, grey and dark, and spring seems a long way off. Suddenly, all your mental clutter – kept tightly under wraps – is surfacing, and you’re aware of the emotional problems and issues that have been around for many years. You’ve tried everything, but they don’t seem to go away. Actually, now you come to think of it, they seem to be getting worse. When you look around, it seems that no-one else is suffering like you are. They seem so much happier, healthier, more confident, more successful, more outgoing than you. What do they have that you don’t? But have you ever stopped and thought about what might be going on behind closed doors for those people? Is their life really so much better than yours, or could it be that, like you, they’ve learnt to adopt a mask that tells the world ‘I’m fine’. Because that’s what we tell people, isn’t it, when they say ‘And how are you today? Are you well?’ ‘Yes thanks’ you reply, ‘I’m absolutely fine’. Masks come in many shapes and sizes, according to the role we’re playing. Imagine having a rack of them next to your front door, and selecting one to wear when you go out. If you’re wearing your Work mask, you may even tuck your Social mask in your bag, in case you meet some friends at lunchtime or after work. If you’re dropping the kids off at school, you might choose your Good Mum or Dad mask, in case you meet other parents. Once you’re safely back inside your home, you can replace those masks on the rack and breathe a sigh of relief. Only problem is that you suddenly feel naked and vulnerable, and all your issues come flooding in again, especially in the middle of the night. Each and every one of us has issues, and those issues are individual to us because we are all unique. If you’re able to deal with your issues and they haven’t turned into problems, then you’re doing pretty well. But if you’re struggling and finding it hard to cope, then you need help and there’s no shame in admitting it, because the relief you will get from resolving your problems will far outweigh any initial concerns about reaching out. All it takes is one small step… If that step is to call me for a free, confidential chat about doing some hypnotherapy, then I’d be delighted to help you bin those masks. No commitment and absolutely no sales pressure, and that’s a promise! Call me on 01973 346747 or 07973 346747 and remember to quote The Conduit to get a £15 discount on your first session.

Memories and Photos preserved for Friends and Family to treasure Full memoir writing service available (01458) 223251 07969 333940 Please visit: www.mandybloom.co.uk

WANTED

Dry Stone Walling and Paving

Dave buys all types of tools.

All types of stone walling undertaken www.yenstonewalling.co.uk

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WALKING

RACHEL’S RAMBLES By Rachel Mead

With the winter solstice behind us, each day now delivers us a chink more of sunlight. In fact we can wonder if we are merrily stomping on towards an early spring - a return glance at what has proven to be a very mild winter thus far suggests we could be fooled into thinking so. Daffodils are confusingly pushing their heads through soft, damp soil in the first week of January, we’ve only had to deice the car a handful of times and it does almost feel as though we’ve skipped a season. But let’s not be falling foul to the trickery, the hedges were laden with fruit this autumn which, for those believers of wives-tales, suggests that “nature doth provide”. We are still in line for a cold snap - surely we can’t have escaped with just a handful of frosts?! The bird song in the morning does remain however a little slow to gather momentum and invariably Oakley and I take our first walk of the day decked out in florescent glory, parading highvisibility lead and flashing collar. I am usually the hunter of clear, sunlit farstretching views but with a busy day ahead it can mean I’m reaching for my 46

Wellingtons long before the sun has even thought about rising. Initially one ponders how enjoyable a wander in the pitch black can be, but if one is suitably prepared it can open up a doorway to a whole new world of nocturnal splendour. Likewise, the short days have also introduced us to ‘Night-walking’ which it turns out is another one of Nature’s remarkable gifts. Oakley will as always race ahead, her nose is her guide and the time of day doesn’t pose any hesitation. I usually begin by easing my path with torchlight but once I have reached a familiar and heavily treelined lane, I switch off the beam. When one experiences true darkness, the senses come alive and battle with one another to take the leading role. With vision limited, my strolling pace is slowed and the sounds of the countryside and all the furry and feathered ones that live there, step into centre-stage.

In a world of twenty-four hour media coverage and on-demand box-set binges it is all too easy to forget what nature’s radio and television have to offer. A stationary pause in a dark wood heightens each and every sense and initially your ears can ring loudly with the pervading silence. But soon enough, as is always the way with countryside life, the call, chatter and scamper of woodland activity reminds you that whilst the majority of humans may slumber, the forest busily thrives. And for me, the biggest reward of a night walk is to look up. Away from the light pollution of the towns and cities we are, in Somerset and Dorset, truly blessed with the vision of our night sky. A clear night rewards sightings of constellations and starry galaxies which reinforce the power of (and my constant love for) nature.

To find some more inspiring walks in the countryside: www.visitsouthsomerset.com / menu/inspire-me/brochures.aspx?parentNodeName=Brochures# If you would like to recommend a ramble for Rachel then please email rachel@zestbureau.co.uk You can also see more photos from each walk on instagram: rachelsrambles

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