Conduit Magazine - May 2021

Crossing counties,

look inside for info on the best events and activities in

West Dorset and

Magazine

South Somerset

THE CIRCUS

is open for business.

Issue 242 May 2021

See p20 to find out more in Spring Fashion

INSIDE THIS MONTH

Spring into Fashion | All About Wheathill Golf Course

What is Japandi? | Granny’s bread crock | Making the numbers add up Serving Bruton, Castle Cary, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Langport, Sherborne, Somerton, Wincanton, Yeovil & Surrounding Villages www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

Established in 1826, Pittards is world-famous for its high quality leather and still makes it locally in Yeovil today.

Visit the factory store to buy direct from a huge range that includes gloves, bags, accessories and leather for crafts.

Pittards, Sherborne Road, Yeovil, BA21 5BA Coffee shop, free car park.

Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.00pm

www.pittards.com

Crafting quality timber buildings and gates since 1912 Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7LH Tel: (01963) 440414 | Email: info@sparkford.com | @sparkfordtimber | www.sparkford.com

From the Editor There’s something in the air, it’s just around the corner, and it’s a feeling of joy and hope as shops and businesses start to open up again. We hope we have captured this spirit on our joyous front cover with Sherborne’s The Circus displaying its iconic pink stairway and open door. Inside there is plenty for you to read and feel positive about with new art exhibitions full of colour and vibrancy, plant fairs and several pages dedicated to gardens and being outdoors. Two new columnists join us this month – Kate from The Trading Post at Lopen writes about how her business has developed and evolved after Lockdown and The Grants of Somerset introduce an inspirational Home & Interior Design feature. If you feel like some fresh air and exercise, take a look at our feature on Wheathill Golf Club and finally don’t miss our Spring into Fashion feature for some great ideas on what to wear to all those outdoor venues and events we can visit once again.

Contents

EDITOR & ADVERTISING Jane Adkins

ASSISTANT EDITOR Julie Locke

JUNE DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 14 MAY Advertisements: MONDAY, 17 MAY

WHAT’S ON p4-10 Info on markets, online workshops and social activities

GARDENING

p10-13 Time to make the most of the outdoors

BUSINESS

p14 Make those numbers add up!

SHOPPING AND FASHION p20 – 22 Spring into Fashion!

ARTS p25-28

Exhibitions, Music & Movies

HOMES AND INTERIORS p29

Get the Japandi look

FOOD AND DRINK p32-33

A new way to shop and eat

BEREAVEMENT p37 Being a female funeral

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.

3 www.remousonline.com

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.

WHAT’S ON

What’s On Charity ONLINE St Margaret’s Hospice Care Fundraising Campaign St Margaret’s has launched its ‘Your year, Your challenge, Your hospice’ fundraising campaign.

The Somerset charity has created a catalogue of online challenges to choose from that can all be completed no matter what restrictions are in place.

From walking 21 miles, a flexible yoga challenge, giving up chocolate for a month or even the staircase mountain step challenge – there is something for everyone! So, why wait?

Sign up today! For more details about this campaign and for further fundraising ideas, visit www.st-margarets-hospice.org. uk.

DORSET Reading Partners Required! Local charity Dorset Reading Partners is recruiting volunteers to deliver vital literacy support to children in primary schools across the area. The charity has been supplying primary schools with trained literacy volunteers for fifteen years. Volunteers will be provided with full training, a DBS check, resources and ongoing support from the charity’s friendly team. If interested and can spare two hours a week over a school year, please contact Juliet on 01305 458515 or visit dorsetreadingpartners.org.uk.

Inspire a child to read!

MILBORNE PORT Yeovil Hospital Breast Unit Charity Art Exhibition Like painting?

Wish to exhibit? There will be an art show in aid of the charity on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 July at Milborne Port Village Hall. If interested, please book a place at the show by contacting Pam Dodge on 01936 251628 or at pumapam@yahoo.co.uk.

Jewellery collection: the charity is still collecting any unwanted or broken jewellery and watches to help raise the final amount to build this much needed unit.

To donate, please call Maggie (appeal committee volunteer) on 01963 250108.

Coffee Morning SOUTH PETHERTON On Wednesday 26 May 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.

Fair YARLINGTON On Saturday 22 May from 10.00am to 4.00pm at Yarlington House, there is a Specialist Plant Fair - an opportunity to buy

Contact: Julie Locke

/theconduitmagazine

E: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk

@conduitmag

plants from the South West’s specialist dealers, plus a selection of unusual annuals on the Yarlington House stall. The beautiful flower garden and walled kitchen garden will be open. Refreshments available all day. Plant raffle. Covid Track and Trace Compliant event. Entrance £5, under 16s free (please bring exact money). Proceeds to St Mary’s Church Yarlington and Yarlington Village Hall.

For further information, phone Carolyn de Salis on 01963 440344.

Food ALHAMPTON Levant Lockdown Takeaway Treats Delicious, fresh, safe homecooked food. Collect from the Corner Cottage front door between 5.00pm and 6.00pm.

5* Food & Hygiene rating.

Please check the website for the week’s menu and collection day. To place an order, email tanya@levantcatering.com or text 07779 093020. Payment

by BACS or cash. For further information, call 01749 860314 or visit www.levantcatering. com.

CASTLE CARY On Saturday 1 May from 10.00am to 4.00pm is the Castle Cary eat:Festival.

This one-day celebration of

local and regional food and drink is organised by multiaward-winning eat:Festivals.

The open air event is free to attend and will have approximately sixty regional food and drink producers, well-spaced, plus some socially distanced entertainment.

Measures are in place to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Visitors are requested to keep local, plan their visit and abide by the latest government advice. www. eatfestivals.org.

ILMINSTER Kitchen Door Takeaway Available Friday and Saturday between 4.00pm and 6.00pm from The Gallery Café, Ilminster Arts Centre. Bored with cooking?

We are always keen to buy antique silver and old Sheffield plate at current prices Please telephone or call into the shop

01935 816828

38 CHEAP STREET, SHERBORNE DORSET DT9 3PX enquiries@henrywillis.co.uk www.henrywillis.co.uk

We’re Back ….Just Like the Good Old Days!

TOP PRICES PAID FOR OLD TOYS - any condition

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

01935 816072 (07527 074343)

Pastimes of Sherborne,

3 Westbury (in front of the Abbey) 4

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.

Looking for something more than the ‘usual’ Friday night takeaway? Then check out the exciting menus on Facebook (@susanforemanatthegallerycafe and Ilminster Arts Centre’s page). Pre-order from Tuesdays. To book a meal and a collection time, call 07883 852724 or email susanforemancatering@gmail.com.

LOPENHEAD The Trading Post Farm Shop is a veritable Aladdin’s cave, bursting with local organic produce from over 120 local suppliers – locally baked bread, locally made jams and chutneys, West Country cheeses, biscuits, deliciously tempting tiffin, cakes, meat, smoked fish, and charcuterie. Visit the amazing zero waste room packed full of loose organic dried goods: cereal, rice, grains, pasta, herbs and spices, dried fruit, nuts and seeds – over 200 lines! A weekly organic fruit and veg box scheme is available for delivery or collection. For further information, visit www.tradingpostfarmshop.co.uk.

NORTH/SOUTH CADBURY Teals Farm Shop, on the A303 at the North/South Cadbury junction, is not the average stop-off – it’s a place to break one’s journey and relax or to pop in just for a few groceries and treats. A small kitchen of cooks preparing tasty nourishing plates; a colourful food market of fresh goods, cared-for meats from nearby hills, remarkable cheeses with long histories; a colourful store of independent-label gifts – a little celebration of Somerset goodness wrapped up in old-fashioned warmth and all under one roof. Open seven days a week from 8.00am to 4.00pm. For more information, visit www.teals.co.uk.

SANDFORD ORCAS The Mitre Inn has set out a number of measures so that guests can have a safe and enjoyable dining experience. Booking essential (from 17 May) as seating inside the pub is limited.

The outside bar is open for drinkers as is the garden and marquee. Opening hours are now: Wednesday to Friday from 12.00 noon to 2.00pm, Saturday and Sunday from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm; Tuesday to Saturday from 7.00pm to 10.00pm; open for drinks only on Sunday and Monday evening from 7.00pm to 9.30pm. For further information, call 01963 220271, email cheryl@mitreinn. co.uk or visit www.mitreinn.co.uk.

SOUTH PETHERTON Frogmary Green Farm Takeaway Meals Farm and Field Café is open for takeaways only. Opening times: Thursday to Sunday from 9.30am to 4.30pm (daytime takeaways, just turn up); Friday and Saturday from 4.30pm to 8.00pm (evening takeaways, order online). For the latest seasonal menus, visit frogmarygreenfarm.co.uk/farm-and-fieldcafé or phone 01460 242775.

WEST CAMEL The Walnut Tree Hotel The beer garden will open at 3.00pm on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 April (serving food and drink), with indoor dining hopefully available from Monday 17 May. See the Facebook page or website for opening times and takeaway/restaurant

menus. Call 01935 851292 or email info@ thewalnuttreehotel.com to order and arrange a collection time or to book a table. www.thewalnuttreehotel.com.

YEOVIL On Saturday 22 May from 10.00am to 4.00pm is the Yeovil eat:Festival. This one-day celebration of local and regional food and drink is organised by multi-award-winning eat:Festivals. The open air event is free to attend and will have approximately sixty regional food and drink producers, well-spaced, plus some socially distanced entertainment. Measures are in place to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Visitors are requested to keep local, plan their visit and abide by the latest government advice. www.eatfestivals.org.

Market CASTLE CARY Every Tuesday from 8.30am to 2.00pm at the Market House is a weekly open-air market. Possibly the friendliest market in Somerset! Food stalls: West Country sourced fish, extensive range of cheeses, greengrocery plus Roots Organic, artisan bread, home-made preserves, homemade pies and pasties, Swanky Cakes, freshly-cooked Thai food and sauces, and Jack’s Mac and Cheese. Contact 01963 351763. www.castle-cary.co.uk/market.

CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 9.00am to 1.00pm outside Henhayes Centre is Crewkerne Farmers’ Market. It has a comprehensive selection of around 16 stalls, offering bread and baked goods, dairy and eggs, drinks, fish, fruit, vegetables, meat, as well as preserves and honey. For further information, visit www. somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk.

DRAYTON Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Village Hall is the monthly market. Produce includes bread, vegetables, meats, butter, cheese, cakes, preserves, honey, desserts, savouries and plants. Refreshments available. Free parking.

ILMINSTER Every Thursday from 8.00am to 5.00pm at the Market House is the Ilminster Town Market. Normally, this market offers Mediterranean food products and kitchen products, barber, bakery, fishmongers, and more. However, during lockdown, only market traders who have food stalls can be invited. For further information, contact Ilminster Town Council on 01460 52149.

MARTOCK On Saturday 8 May from 10.00am to 1.00pm at the Moorland’s Shopping Precinct is Martock Farmers’ Market, with stalls selling all key foods such as vegetables, cheese, coffee, chicken, beef, cordials, jams, bread, savouries and plants. Card payment preferred, but cash handled carefully. Please observe the advice on distancing and queueing. Any enquiries, please phone Fergus on 01935 822202.

WHAT’S ON

SHEPTON MALLET Every Friday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at the Market Place is Shepton Mallet market. This historic market, which dates back to 1318, offers a wide range of fresh local produce, such as fruit, veg, bread, cheese, seafood, and cider.

For further information, visit the market’s Facebook page or phone 07912 769731.

SHERBORNE On Sunday 16 May from 10.00am to 4.00pm, The Sherborne Market will take place along Cheap Street, Digby Road and Pageant Gardens. This handpicked and selected artisan market features local producers and suppliers, amazing food, plus arts and crafts. @thesherbornemarket.

Every third Friday from 9.00am to 1.00pm at Cheap Street is a Farmers’ Market. Come and support local Dorset traders with a gorgeous selection of outdoor stalls. For more information, visit www.visit-dorset. com/food-and-drink/farmers-markets.

WINCANTON Every first Friday from 9.00am to 11.30am at The Barn (via the Peace Garden) is the Wincanton Country Market. Enjoy locally homegrown produce including cakes, cheese, jams, vegetables, and flowers. www.somersetcountrymarkets. co.uk.

Sale SHEPTON MALLET From Thursday 29 April to Monday 3 May at Kilver Court Designer Village, there is a Ted Baker Warehouse Sale. At regular warehouse sales for many designer brands, the most coveted pieces are offered at a fraction of the original price tag – so sign up to the mailing list to be among the first to know and take advantage of exclusive VIP events and previews. For further details, visit www. kilvercourt.com.

REMOVALS & CLEARANCES

Contact us for your free, no obligation quote; Phone: 01935 509057 Freephone: 0800 2425012 Mobile: 07853 275379 Email: enquiries@back2market.com

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

5

WHAT’S ON

Social ONLINE Every Monday at 7.00pm online, come and join ‘The Choir‘ for an uplifting Singalong, all from the comfort of home. The Zoom sessions are led by Jo. Help can be given with set-up for anyone not familiar with Zoom. Sessions are £4 and words will be provided.

Come along, join in and have fun! For more details, contact Jo on 07800 767712 or josykes@ gmail.com.

Every Tuesday and Thursday at 11.00am, join Rachel and Cheryl and enjoy an old-fashioned singalong with the Goldies fun sessions. All the favourite songs with on-screen words. Free on YouTube and Facebook – watch sessions at any time. For more information, visit www. goldieslive.com.

Every fourth Wednesday, there is a social Martock & District U3A Zoom meeting for members to keep in touch. The group hopes eventually to be able to provide more opportunities for face-to-face meetings and events, however, until then it continues to provide online hobbies/interest groups, talks and social events for members.

Why not join the group? The focus is on fun and making friends. Membership open to anyone no longer in fulltime employment. For further information, visit the Facebook page, www.u3a.org.uk, email martocku3amembership@gmail. com, or phone 07510 178094.

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. waste management. Free to all.

Please email fergus.dowding@ btinternet.com for the Zoom link.

On Tuesday 3 May at 3.00pm via Zoom, there is a Blackmore Vale U3A talk by Brad Ashton.

A sense of humour has been essential during lockdown. Who has not chortled at a funny WhatsApp or belly-laughed through repeats of a favourite comedy series? This could have been one written by Brad Ashton. Zoom opens at 2.45pm.

To receive the link to hear Brad’s backstage stories, contact Susan Kidd at skiddsbvu3a@gmail. com. For more information about Blackmore Vale U3A, email Susan or visit www.u3a. org.uk.

On Wednesday 12 May at 2.00pm via Zoom, there is a Martock & District U3A talk about Trinity House, a charity dedicated to safeguarding shipping and seafarers, providing education, support and welfare to the seafaring community. As well as ownership and operation of lighthouses, beacons and buoys, Trinity House is called in to mark and sometimes clear wrecks, help in the development of electronic navigation tools for vessels and to act as nautical assessors in Admiralty court cases. Members will be sent Zoom details. For membership information, contact 01460 240788. For further information, visit the Facebook page,

www.u3a.org.uk, or email martocku3amembership@gmail. com.

On Thursday 13 May from 9.00am to 10.30am, Yeovil Chamber introduces key figures in the town for a special online ‘Business Leaders Breakfast’.

The speaker, Jonathan Higman, joined the Board of Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in January 2009 and became Chief Executive in March 2018.

During this time, he has held a number of Director level posts. £10 for non-members (free to members). For more information and to book online, visit www. yeovilchamber.org/events.

On Tuesday 25 May at 7.30pm via Zoom, there is a Martock History Group talk. Professor Ronald Hutton will talk on Village Magic and Witchcraft.

He is a leading authority on the history of the British Isles in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, on ancient and medieval paganism and magic, and on the global context of witchcraft beliefs. He is also the

leading historian of the ritual year in Britain and of modern paganism, as well as a prolific author. It’s free, but please email fergus.dowding@btinternet.com for the Zoom link. The link will be sent out to members nearer the time.

Walk ONLINE Sherborne Walks has developed a number of Zoom presentations that look at the beauty and interesting aspects of the local area. A catalogue of journeys around the area with booking details is available on the website. The group specialises in guiding around this historic town and the surrounding area, delving a little deeper into the stories, characters and people that make the area so fascinating. www. sherbornewalks.co.uk.

MARTOCK On Friday 21 May at 9.30am at Martock Precinct is the start of the Martock Health Walk. This is a friendly

WINCANTON RACE COURSE BA9 8BJ (Formally at Yeovil Show Ground)

OPENING: SUNDAY 25 APRIL 1PM – 4PM

Sellers: All Vehicles £6 for as much room as required Public Car Park: £1 per car For further info: 07979 345914 or 07479 476809 Gates open to sellers: 11am Strictly no dogs on site | No booking required

Talk ONLINE On Wednesday 21 April at 7.30pm via Zoom, there is a Somerset Vernacular Building Research Group talk.

Kate Whitaker will speak about ‘Building with Sarsen Stones in Southern England’. Recent research on the movement of the stones from Wales to Stonehenge makes this highly topical! Free to all. Please email secretary@svbrg.org.uk for the Zoom link.

On Tuesday 27 April at 7.30pm via Zoom, Peter Daniels will give a talk on waste management entitled ‘What a Load of Rubbish’. The talk explores the history of solid

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Contact-Free Delivery Tel: 01258 472564

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www.EB Marsh.com *Terms & Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply. Exclusions & radius applies.

See in-store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2021. E&OE March 2021.

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To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

Flying the flag for local

Hand picked & selected artisan market featuring local producers, suppliers, amazing food, arts and crafts.

2021 dates

April 18th May 16th June 20th July 18th

August 15th September 19th October 17th November 21st

WHAT’S ON

walk lasting about 60 mins led by trained volunteers at a pace suitable to the group.

Due to government guidelines regarding social distancing, booking is essential so that contact details can be recorded for the NHS Track and Trace to ensure everyone’s safety. To book a place, contact Maggie 01935 824252 or Pam 01935 826429.

MINTERNE MAGNA Every day until November from 10.00am to 6.00pm at Minterne House, visit the gardens - a haven of tranquillity to explore and inspire. The garden is full of interest throughout year, with its world-renowned and completely unique collection of Himalayan rhododendrons and azaleas, spring bulbs, cherries, maples and many fine and rare trees. Wander the trail, around a mile in length, and enjoy the chain of small lakes, waterfalls and streams. Book online for tickets. Adults £12, under 12s free, season tickets available. For further information, visit www. minterne.co.uk or phone 01300 341370.

WELLS From Saturday 29 May to Sunday 6 June from 10.00am

8

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. to 6.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace is the Whitsun Half Term Family Scavenger Hunt. Make the most of half term with the family by heading to the Palace Gardens to take part. Grab a copy of the hunt from the Ticket Office or download from the website and set off around the 14-acre site to find various items. Don’t forget to visit The Dragon’s Lair for some fun in the children’s play area. The Bishop’s Table Cafe will be serving breakfast, lunch, drinks & snacks every day too. Included in admission.

Please follow current lockdown guidelines. Tickets available to purchase at www.bishopspalace. org.uk.

Workshop ONLINE ACEarts has been able to produce more online workshops, thanks to Arts Council England. Visit the website to find make-along videos – be inspired, be creative!

For further information, visit www.acearts.co.uk.

ILMINSTER From Tuesday 18 May to Tuesday 13 July from

6.00pm to 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an eightweek ‘Figure Drawing’ workshop with Heather Ford. A chance to improve drawing skills and discover the joy of drawing from life in a relaxed atmosphere.

Suitable for beginners as well the more experienced. Bring own materials or use the materials provided. £16 per session (plus £2 if using materials provided) or £112 for all eight (one session free!). No class on Tuesday 1 June. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. For further information, visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Wednesday 19 May from 10.30am to 3.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Beach Hut Cushion’ workshop with textile designer Gary Mills.

Follow Gary’s guidance through various textile processes – masking off and hand painting techniques for the background, machine free motion embroidery to create the pebbles, bonded and stitched applique to create a scene of colourful beach huts, bunting and flying kites – to make a beach hut themed cushion. Suitable for all levels. Workshop £40,

materials £10. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. For further information, visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

From Wednesday 19 May to Wednesday 9 June from 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a fourweek ‘Drawing and Painting with Nature’ workshop with Julia McKenzie. This is an observational ink drawing and printmaking course using traditional and non-traditional tools. Create expressive drawings using tools found from the natural world and the man-made environment, then translate them into prints, using dry point and mixed media techniques. Cost £60 (plus materials cost). To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. For further information, visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Thursday 20 May from 10.00am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Creative Portraits in Pencil’ workshop with Heather Ford. Learn a variety of drawing techniques and produce a beautiful A3 portrait in a relaxed atmosphere – bring

Registered Charity Number: 1121600

ISOLATED at HOME and LOVE a good old fashioned

Singalong?

N FU ing!

ng i s sofa

Join Rachel and Cheryl every Tuesday and Thursday with Goldies FUN singalongs FREE on YouTube and FaceBook. All your favourite songs with on-screen words - watch sessions at any time.

www.goldieslive.com

If you have an elderly relative or neighbour PLEASE tell them about

Goldieslive.com

Ac ymunwch â Sian ar DDYDD LLUN cyntaf pob mis calendr gyda sesiynau HWYLIOG yn y Gymraeg.

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.

WHAT’S ON

along an A4 photograph to work from. Suitable for beginners as well the more experienced.

Bring own materials or use the materials provided. Cost £25 (plus £2 if using materials provided). Includes a one-hour lunch break. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. For further information, visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Thursday 20 May from 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an ‘Introduction to Slow Stitch’ workshop with Paula Simpson. Develop a more creative approach to stitching through this simple and mindful process – experiment using natural fabrics and threads.

Suitable for beginners as well the more experienced. Bring own equipment and materials or use the materials provided at a small cost. Cost £15. For more information and to book, please email Paula Simpson at hello@ paulasimpson.co.uk. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Friday 21 May from 10.00am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Felting’ workshop with Geraldine Field.

Come and have a go at making felt. 2D or 3D, wet or dry, learn from scratch or learn a new technique. Have fun with fluffy colour! Cost £25, excluding materials. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. For further information, visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

From Wednesday 26 May to Wednesday 14 July from 10.00am to 3.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a sevenweek ‘Acrylic Painting’ workshop with Juliet Farnese. A class where individual creativity is developed and encouraged, from total beginner to confident

painter, all are welcome. Please bring A4 sketch book, 2B and 4B graphite pencils and acrylics to the first class. No paints yet?

Materials can be provided for use in the first few classes, cost £3. Seven-week course £105.

Half-hour break at 12.30pm.

No class on Wednesday 2 June. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. For further information, visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.

On Friday 28 May from 10.00am to 12.30pm and from 1.15pm to 3.45pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Slow Stitch – Contemporary Indian Applique and Stitch’ workshop with Paula Simpson. Create interesting circle designs in a Kantha–style stitched roll, embellished with an Indian flower applique design, using a simple running stitch, cotton fabrics and sari fabrics. Bring own equipment and materials or use the materials provided at a small cost. Cost £15 per morning or afternoon workshop (both can be booked as two workshops).

For more information and to book, please email Paula Simpson at hello@paulasimpson. co.uk. www.themeetinghouse. org.uk.

SHERBORNE ArtsLink is back and delighted to be to be offering workshops again. One-off, full day or weekend workshops are a great opportunity to try something new or to explore a subject in greater depth. All workshops are tutored by specialists in the technique being explored and aim to bring the best out of everyone in a supportive creative atmosphere. Covid-19 Secure arrangements are in place for all activities. For more information, visit www.sherborneartslink.org. uk.

From Wednesday 5 to Wednesday 26 May from 10.15am to 11.15am at The Bishop’s Palace is ‘Pilates at The Gardens’, a four-week Pilates experience. Join instructor, Sally Frampton, for an hour of mindful movement therapy. Beginning with the fundamentals of breath and alignment to focus mind and body. Learn how to apply Pilates’ principles to encourage concentration, control, precision and flow. In addition to physical gains, the nature of the Pilates’ mind-body connection can alleviate feelings of anxiety. The four-week block costs £40 for members or £42.50 for nonmembers. Book online at www. bishopspalace.org.uk.

Andrew Haylock Andrew Haylock is a keen amateur poet who takes his inspiration from life, his love of nature and the countryside around him.

Andrew has had some of his work published and is frequently called on by family and friends to write a poem for a special occasion, using his own unique sense of humour and observation of human nature.

This month his poem is in celebration of National Dawn Chorus Day which takes place on Sunday 2 May.

DAWN CHORUS The nighttime sky was slowing giving way, To the grey light signal of another day.

Dawn was in progress and as it occurred, It was heralded by a faithful blackbird.

Such beauty in his limitless vocal range, A loyal conductor on his perch again.

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One call, then another followed his lead, Songbirds singing from the hedges and trees.

High amongst the cherry tree a Robin called in glee, ‘Get up it’s a lovely day came and see!’

Looking out the window at the early sunlight, I must confirm the little bird was right.

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The crescendo of song carried on the spring breeze, Within the foxgloves it was accompanied by the hum of bees.

Early evening the tone will be of sadder lament, As the bird’s pipe down a sinking sun, its day spent.

World famous opera singers and choirs ever heard, Are no match to the performance by our songbirds.

Domestic Fencing Specialist All types of fencing and gates supplied and erected

01935 330 095 01460 353 046 10

WELLS From Thursday 22 April from 11.00am to 12.00 noon at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there will be a six-week Tai Chi course led by local practitioner John Beasley. The course will run every Thursday in the magnificent gardens. As an exercise, Tai Chi comprises gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness and is suitable for all, regardless of age or ability. Pre-booking advisable but not essential.

Attendees require a valid entrance ticket or pass to the Palace – there is no additional cost for the sessions, although an optional £5 donation in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice can be made. www.bishopspalace.org. uk.

Andrew Haylock April 2021

GARDENING

FRIENDLY CONTROL OF SLUGS AND SNAILS

By Mike Burks, Managing Director of The Gardens Group

Despite the winter being cold, it wasn’t cold enough to have slowed up the populations of slugs and snails.

Many gardeners are reluctant to use chemical controls because of the potential damage to pets, children and wildlife, including hedgehogs. To be fair, modern slug pellets are much safer (if used correctly) due to the pellets being made much more attractive to slugs and snails.

This means that less chemical is required to achieve control. But my preference is to use the safer alternatives first.

If chemical control is avoided then it will be very positive for wildlife, including the natural predators of slugs and snails, such as rove beetles, ground beetles, frogs, toads, slowworms, grass snakes, glow-worm larvae, centipedes, thrushes, blackbirds and, of course, the hedgehog!

One of the most effective that I have used is mulching, with either Strulch or the locally produced Bloomin’ Amazing. I discovered the slug-controlling effects when growing plants a couple of years ago for a garden at the Bath and West Show.

Many were tasty vegetables, including lettuce and cabbage, and I had mulched with Bloomin’ Amazing just for the look of it. I was astonished to discover that the slugs and snails never came anywhere near and it was the Bloomin’ Amazing that was the reason!

Sometimes a bad taste can drive away slugs and snails.

Listed as people, pet and planet friendly is a product from Grazers containing calcium chloride. It is absorbed into the foliage of plants and the munchers don’t

like the taste, although we don’t notice it.

There are a number of barriers that are useful too, in localised situations. One of these getting rave reviews is the use of wool pellets in the product called Slug Gone. The pellets swell to form a mat which absorbs moisture from the slug, making crossing the mat very difficult. It is useful for localised control, especially in tubs and pots.

Increasingly popular is the use of biological control for slugs. In this system microscopic wormlike creatures (nematodes) are in packs of clay and then are mixed with water to be spread around the garden. These naturally occurring nematodes hatch out and infect the slugs. It can only be used once the soil has

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

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warmed up which usually means the middle of March onwards.

Other non-chemical controls include the beer trap. This is a plastic dish filled with beer, which acts as a lure and should be positioned near the crop that needs protecting. The slugs are attracted to the beer rather than your crops, but end up drowning.

I’m often asked which of these treatments is best, but actually a combination of a number of them would be my suggestion… and never let your guard down.

ANCE INTEN LOW MA

DITED ACCR E PROFESSIONAL

INSTALLATION

11

GARDENING

Sandhurst Garden Design Julie Haylock Garden Designer

TIME TO INVEST IN YOUR GARDEN

By Julie Haylock, Sandhurst Garden Design

20 Sandhurst Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2LG

Tel: 07899 710168 Email: juliesandhurst1@gmail.com www.sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk Contact Julie for garden and border design, planting plans, plant selection advice and garden styling

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

Spring has seen a busy start to the year here at Sandhurst Garden Design.

Sherborne Garden Angels have already built two of my designs, with others ongoing or waiting to make a start, and I have more on my drawing board.

We have found that more clients are planning staycations this summer in the present situation we find ourselves in, and they are choosing to invest in improving their gardens, which will give them many years of pleasure to come.

If you are planning a garden makeover or thinking of revamping your borders, then give me a call on 0789 9710168 or visit www. sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk.

This month I am featuring the humble hebe which is one of the most undervalued of our garden shrubs. This tough neat evergreen native to New Zealand, Australia and South America, and named after the Greek goddess of Youth, is a real gem of a plant that will instantly perk up a dull spot in any garden.

Hebes are happy planted in most soil types but dislike heavy clay or waterlogged soil.

They like to be in full sun but will tolerate partial shade and once established are drought tolerant.

12

nursery will no doubt offer you even more to choose from.

Hebe rakaiensis is a really good alternative to Buxus and perfect for clipping into topiary shapes, creating neat forms perfect for adding structure to your border during the winter months, and an ideal plant for the oriental style garden. This fully hardy rounded evergreen shrub has glossy green leaves and clusters of large white flowers from early to mid-summer. Height 1.2m.

Hebe ‘Caledonia’ is another excellent choice; this dark green plant has foliage which is tinted red when young and has violet flowers in late spring to early autumn. Height 1m, spread 1m.

Hebe ‘Champagne’ has lilac-tinted flower spikes between July and September that fade to white with age and has glossy green leaves that flush with purple in winter. Height 60cm, spread 60cm.

There are lots of varieties of this versatile plant to choose from, and all have a long flowering period from May to October. This neat evergreen shrub is ideal for a summer border providing flowers which are loved by the bees and provide year-round foliage. The compact varieties are perfect for edging a garden path or driveway or planting in a container, whilst the larger varieties can be grown to form a hedge.

If you are short on space, consider one of the compact varieties. Hebe ‘Green Globe’ flowers between June and August, height 60cm, spread 60cm. This dwarf evergreen shrub forms a natural dome and produce masses of tiny white flowers on short spikes in summer. The tight habit of this plant gives the appearance of having been clipped so perfect for a low maintenance garden and looks great planted with airy grasses or en masse to line a pathway.

These useful plants will tolerate pollution, making them a good choice for a city garden and sea salt spray so ideal for a coastal garden. However, take care with the larger leaf varieties as they are more vulnerable to cold and chilly winds, so best planted in a sheltered spot.

Alternatively, Hebe buxifolia ‘Nana’ is a dense rounded shrub with small elliptical shaped leaves about 1cm in length that resembles boxwood. This compact variety has a spreading habit and has pale lavendercoloured flowers in July. It grows to about 30cm, spread 30cm.

I have singled out a few varieties to mention, but a visit to your local garden centre or

Finally, Hebe ‘Heartbreaker’, this frost hardy shrub provides wonderfully decorative foliage

of slender cream edged leaves that take on a vivid pink flush when the temperature drops and will last until the spring. Flowering between June and August with clusters of mauve-coloured flowers, this plant grows to a height of 60cm.

Hebes are easy to take cuttings from in midJuly to early September. Using secateurs, cut off a stem of the current season’s growth about 15-20cm in length and pop into a plastic bag until you are ready to plant it.

Prepare a 9cm pot, which is big enough to grow three or four cuttings, with a mixture of 50/50 compost and grit. Shorten each stem to 15cm in length cutting just below a pair of leaves, and snip off the tip of the cutting.

Dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder, push carefully into the compost and space out equally around the pot edge.

Place your cutting in a cold frame or cover with a plastic bag and put on a warm windowsill until the cutting has taken.

Overwinter in a protected spot and it will be ready to plant out into your garden the following spring.

Until next time, Julie

Garden Landscape & Construction Services

www.sherbornegardenangels.co.uk 01935 324737

GARDENING

GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES Hi I’m Robin, I’m a graphic designer with over 10 years experience.

No job is too big or too small, get in touch today!

Let’s make your design look AWESOME!

Flyers & brochures | Menus Posters | Business cards Photo restoration | CV design Invitations | Personalised gifts Corporate communications Logo design | Prospectuses Website design | Branding

at Yarlington House

By kind invitation of Count and Countess Charles de Salis

Saturday 22nd May 10am-4pm

And much more...

P: 07871 818 741 E: robin@hitopdesign.com

Specialist Plant Fair

W: hitop.design

To be held in the spacious park at Yarlington House with social distancing measures. An opportunity to buy plants from specialist dealers from all over the South West – plus a selection of unusual annuals on the Yarlington House stall. The beautiful flower garden and walled kitchen garden will be open. Tea, coffee and cake all day. Plant raffle.

Free initial consultation

ENTRANCE £5 (under 16s free) Please bring exact money Covid Track and Trace Compliant Event

www.chalmersaccountants.co.uk info@chalmersaccountants.co.uk Offices at Yeovil, Crewkerne & Langport 01460 279000

For further information please ring Carolyn de Salis 01963 440344

A personal and friendly approach to business that will work for you

Proceeds to St Mary’s Church Yarlington and Yarlington Village Hall

HOW TO GET READY FOR SUMMER

By Liv Sabat

Summertime is coming. Let’s not waste it. We may still be restricted from travelling too far afield so why not try and make your garden space this year’s summer’s paradise?

With our outdoor covers you can make your garden into your own little paradise. Our verandas and awnings can shelter you from the sun and heat in the summer months, but also protect you from the cold, rain and wind during the rest of the year.

Let’s be realistic, we are all keeping our fingers crossed that England will at least give us the satisfaction of a warm summer, but we all know that some days may still be cold and rainy. Let’s not allow a spot of inclement weather force us to stay stuck inside a moment longer. Bring the outdoors to you with an allweather space so you no longer feel trapped inside.

You may have always wanted to treat yourself to a hot tub or a pool, what’s stopping you? Make the most of life! Sunrooms can even be used as a hot tub or pool cover, creating a space where you’ll be able to relax and not worry about burning in the summer heat (or not getting rained on).

Our sun awnings will turn your patio, decking or garden area into a classy haven of luxurious summer living! If you have children, give them the luxury of an open outdoor space full of their favourite toys.

On the contrary, if you know you’re going to be stuck working from home – don’t worry, this will also be perfect for you. Are you working at home in a room that isn’t properly ventilated?

That was me a couple weeks ago but now, just in time for summer, I’ll be working from a glass room and, I can tell you from experience with this week being so hot and sunny, it’s amazing. The room doesn’t get all hot and stuffy because it’s perfectly ventilated. You can also sit staring out into your garden for inspiration if you are stuck with something.

We have to get our mind, body and soul ready for summer and here’s how; begin to unwind, keep up your exercise routine, try something new, tackle insecurities, make changes (these can be anything from landscaping your garden, renovating your home, or anything else that takes your fancy) and finally, live in the present. It’s time to enjoy summer 2021 to the fullest, whilst respecting the rules (of course!).

See you in the next one!

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

13

COMPUTING

BUSINESS

PUBS AND RESTAURANTS

DIY WEBSITE BUILDERS

– MAKING THE NUMBERS ADD UP

By James Flynn, Milborne Port Computers

OK! Let’s have a little website lesson. A website is a collection of pages of information under one domain name (e.g. mpfix.co.uk).

Each web page can contain pictures, text and links to other pages, and are created using a coding language called HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), a standardised system for tagging text files to achieve font, colour, graphic, and link effects on web pages. A website is stored on the servers of a web host, connected to the internet, so that you and I can use our web browsers to view those pages. I think that’s enough!

In the beginning there was manual coding typed in by hand, followed pretty quickly

by WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editors such as HotDog and HoTMetaL, and these have come a long way since the 1990s; web page editors are now really sophisticated, and really expensive! If you want a website today, you really have three choices: 1. Give your content to a web designer, who has bought the expensive software, and they’ll make you a good-looking website for somewhere between £500 and infinity. They’ll look after the domain name and do all the updating for an annual fee.

2. Register your own domain name and buy some hosting and make you own site using WordPress or similar,

By Jim Rayner although you’ll need to be pretty tech savvy, and you’ll be tinkering with it every day for years.

3. Go to one of the myriad of DIY sites (WIX, SquareSpace, GoDaddy, IONOS, etc.) and build your own using their online version of a WYSIWYG editor. DIY website builders are a way for regular people to design and build their own websites without using code. Tech knowhow is not required, whether you’re a business or a hobbyist. Why not? They’re free, aren’t they?

Well, yes, to a point. They do this by providing templates and letting you customise them as you see fit. If you want to enter basic details and leave it there, fine. If you want to change everything about it, you can, but you are limited to how many pages you can create and how much stuff you can do. These companies are in business to make money (no complaint there), and once you’ve got your free site up and running, it may be all you want. Most people, however, need more and eventually you’ll have to pay to get what you want with all the bells and whistles. If you want an online shop, then expect to have to pay from the start.

Don’t get me wrong, I have no gripe with this, you only get the best by paying for it. The choice as always, is yours, but if you need help making that decision, you know where to come.

It’s never been easy to run a profitable pub, restaurant or café.

Even in normal times the failure rate of hospitality businesses is around three times higher than most other sectors. Success has always depended upon hard graft, attention to detail and a firm grasp of some important numbers.

As our pubs and restaurants reopen it’s even more of a challenge to make the numbers add up. The income a dining business can generate is limited by the number of customers it can accommodate. So more separation between tables means fewer covers and less potential income. And the restriction to table service will mean higher staff costs, particularly for pubs.

On the plus side the temporary VAT changes mean that even if a food business cannot sell as many meals, it will be able to achieve better margins. With VAT at 20% the Treasury took one sixth of everything passing through the till. The reduction to 5% until the end of September reduces HMRC’s take considerably.

So how does a pub or restaurant owner go about making the numbers add up and start trading profitably enough to recover from the months of enforced lockdown and begin recouping the extra costs of making premises COVIDsecure?

A good starting point is to prepare a Do-Nothing-Different forecast. What happens to profits if you do nothing different but simply accept the changes forced upon you?

Imagine you run a food-led pub that on a normal Friday in May

might serve 100 meals with an average spend per customer of £24 (£20 + VAT). The materials – food and drink – cost an average of £7, or 35%. Staffing costs 30% of sales, and overheads a further 25%, leaving an operating profit of 10%.

If the COVID measures reduce covers by 20% and require 10% more staff costs the numbers will look like this:

NORMAL MAY YEAR 2021

Customers served Sales inc VAT Sales net Materials Staff Overheads Profit

100

80

£2,400 £2,000 £700 £600 £500 £200

£1,920 £1,829 £560 £660 £500 £109

So Doing-Nothing-Different leads to a drop of almost 50% in profit.

That’s your starting point. You can then start considering doing things differently and exploring the effect that could have on the numbers. Can you encourage more early dining so you can ‘turn’ more tables and serve more customers? Or maybe increase the average spend by promoting desserts? Or perhaps increase spend and margin by guiding customers to higher margin dishes?

To help pub, restaurant and café owners get back in business profitably, I’ve put together an interactive calculator and report builder you can use to run through your numbers quickly and start to make them add up.

You can get FREE access at www. james-rayner.co.uk.

STAY ON TOP OF THE NUMBERS PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS SAVE LIVELIHOODS BUSINESS NUMBER EXPERTS WWW.JAMES-RAYNER.CO.UK

14

FINANCE

WHAT IS A FINANCIAL PLANNER FOR?

By Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning What is a financial planner for? How can they help? One view is that advisers have unique insights into market direction that give their clients an advantage, like gazing into a crystal ball.

But of the many roles a professional adviser should play, fortune telling is not one of them.

The truth is that no one knows what will happen next in investment markets. And if anyone really did have a crystal ball, it is unlikely they would be plying their trade as an adviser, a broker, an analyst or a financial journalist; they’d be living on a boat in Monaco without any cares.

In reality, the value a professional adviser brings is not dependent on the state of markets. Actually, our value can be even more evident when volatility and emotions are running high.

The best advisers offer multiple roles with their clients, beginning with the needs, risk appetites and circumstances of each individual, irrespective of what is going on in the world. A good adviser listens, asks probing questions and builds a good understanding of the client’s goals, desires and concerns.

None of these roles involves making forecasts about markets or economies.

Instead, the roles combine technical expertise with an understanding of how money issues intersect with the rest of people’s complex lives.

Below I have listed seven hats an adviser can wear to help individuals or business owners without ever once having to look into a crystal ball: The expert: Investors need advisers who can provide client-centred expertise in assessing the state of your finances and developing risk-aware strategies to help you meet your goals.

The independent voice: The global financial turmoil of recent years demonstrated the value of an independent and objective voice in a world full of product pushers and salespeople.

The listener: The emotions triggered by financial uncertainty are real. A good adviser will listen to your fears, tease out the issues driving those feelings and provide practical long-term answers.

The teacher: Getting beyond the fearand-flight phase often is just a matter of teaching you about risk and return, diversification, the role of asset allocation and the virtue of discipline.

The architect: Once these lessons are understood, the adviser becomes an architect, building a long-term wealth management strategy that matches your risk appetites and lifetime goals.

The coach: Even when the strategy is in place, doubts and fears inevitably will arise. The adviser at this point becomes a coach, reinforcing first principles and keeping you on track.

you to trust the adviser as a listener or a sounding board, as someone to whom you can share your greatest hopes and fears.

From this point, the listener can become the teacher, the architect, the coach and ultimately the guardian. Just as people’s needs and circumstances change over time, so the nature of the advice service evolves.

These are all valuable roles in their own right and none is dependent on forces outside the control of the adviser or client, such as the state of the investment markets or the point of the economic cycle. However, if you characterise these various roles, good financial advice ultimately is defined by the patient building of a long-term relationship founded on the values of trust and independence and knowledge of each individual.

The guardian: Beyond these experiences is a long-term role for the adviser as a kind of lighthouse keeper, scanning the horizon for issues that may affect you and keeping you informed.

These are just seven valuable roles an adviser can play in understanding and responding to your whole-of-life needs that are a world away from the old notions of selling product off the shelf or making forecasts.

For instance, you may first seek out an adviser purely because of our role as an expert. But once those credentials are established, the main value of the adviser in your eyes may be as an independent voice.

Knowing the adviser is independent— and not plugging a product—can lead

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

15

LEGAL

CLAIMING AGAINST AN UNINSURED OR UNTRACED DRIVER

By Kate Golding, Battens Other driver uninsured or driven off but left you injured? You may still have a claim.

It’s the road user’s worst nightmare – you’re involved in an accident that isn’t your fault, only to find that the other driver isn’t insured or, worse, has driven off without providing their details.

It is in these circumstances that the Motor Insurer’s Bureau (‘MIB’) may step in.

The MIB is a non-profitmaking company set up by motor insurers. It enters into agreements with the UK Government to compensate victims of motor accidents in such circumstances. It is funded by contributions from insurers underwriting compulsory motor insurance, as required under The Road Traffic Act 1988.

By working with the police to identify uninsured drivers for prosecution, the MIB promotes safety for all accident victims who are not at fault, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Eligibility - If your claim is

eligible and you follow the correct process (outlined below), compensation can be available for pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by injuries sustained, financial losses suffered (for example, a loss of earnings) and for the loss of or damage to any property

16

involved in the accident, including a vehicle.

There are deadlines so it is important to act quickly.

The most important thing to remember in relation to eligibility is that a claim must be brought for personal injury, assuming that in most cases like this some sort of injury will have been caused within three years of the date of accident. After this time you will not be able to bring the claim.

The process will be different depending on whether the claim is against an uninsured driver or an untraced driver.

Following and understanding the right process will give yourself the best possible chance of having your claim accepted, accessing appropriate treatment or

Process - In order to make

a claim to the MIB, important steps need to be taken early and without delay.

If you are driving, always report the accident to the police. This must be reported to the police within 24 hours whether the incident involves an uninsured identified driver or an untraced ‘hit and run’ driver. You should also inform your own insurance company.

If you were not driving a vehicle, but were a pedestrian or cyclist, you should report the accident to the police immediately; any delay could affect your eligibility to make a claim.

Once eligibility has been established, a claim form can then be submitted to the MIB, setting out full details of the damage and injury suffered. It is important that this document is complete and accurate in order to ensure that the MIB gives your claim careful consideration.

rehabilitation that might assist in your recovery and, ultimately, ending up with a fair sum for the incident.

Battens personal injury team is able to assist you with the process, leaving you to just concentrate on getting better.

For more information, contact Kate Golding on 01935 846072 or email kate. golding@battens.co.uk.

MOTORING

THIS CAR IS LIKE AN IMPERFECT FRIEND!

By Tim Saunders, Motoring Correspondent The Volkswagen T-Roc is a reasonable sized Sports Utility Vehicle suited to an active family. We should get on fine then.

True to VW design it is smart, sleek and clinical both inside and out; something to be proud of – the architecture of the bodywork gives much interest thanks to the lines and general boxiness. Gone are the days it seems of sweeping curves.

On the road it’s fun to drive, fast when required and in fact if the driver is too zealous with their right foot the front wheels can lose their grip on the road. There’s a good driving position. Its six speed manual gearbox is smooth to operate and a pleasure to use. The cruise control on the other hand is one of the more complicated to operate, so much so that it’s too awkward for me and I give up.

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.

health; far more important than ramming technology down our throats, that frankly much of the time we don’t need. If it’s possible to add colour inside our homes without breaking the bank then it should also be possible inside the family runabout, which let’s face it is an extension of our personalities.

The first time I reverse the T-Roc up our driveway, which does slope uphill, it rolls uncomfortably close to our dining room wall. Thankfully my reactions allow for us to make a hasty, if rather speedy, exit. The auto hold function does not seem to work in such a situation no matter what I do, which is unnerving. There is an electric parking brake.

In the operating manual Volkswagen devotes a chapter to Cyber Security on page 182. Who would have thought this necessary a few years ago? It alerts the driver to the fact that when connecting a mobile phone to the vehicle’s system, if it is contaminated with malware, this could infect the car and ultimately pose a risk to driver safety and worse. That’s a bit frightening.

The T-Roc is a capable car, whose boot accommodates a typical weekly shop.

Overall, I do like it as I do an imperfect friend. Drive it yourself and see what you think but leave that phone at home.

Inside, it’s comfortable and practical. There’s a neat drawer underneath the driver’s seat providing some useful storage.

But it’s very black indeed, which seems the way these days in terms of both interiors and economic forecasts…. Not a bit of colour, unless it is the electric blue of the digital displays. But then it is the Black Edition so what do I expect? ‘Perhaps there’s a Green Edition,’ questions Henry (5) who loves anything of this colour, especially dinosaurs. The soul craves it, like music, good food and drink. These days we all need colour in our lives for our mental 14:23 Page 1 Brewers Garage.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2020

BRISTOL ROAD GARAGE Western Ways Yard, Bristol Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4HR

• DIAGNOSTICS • MOT • SERVICING

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812720

FACTS AT A GLANCE T-Roc Black Edition 1.5 TSi 150 PS 6spd manual Price: OTR price: £25,525 / Price as tested: £28,340 0-60mph: 8.4secs Fuel: Petrol Power: 150bhp Top speed: 127mph

Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz 17

CHILDREN

SKYGATE

Part VII: The Family Before I became Red, the two-hundredand-fifteenth Guardian of the Skygate, I was lonely Jones, strange Jones, poorparentless-Jones-the-outcast, passed like an unwanted parcel from distant family members to boarding schools and – eventually – into a couple of gloomy foster homes.

Back then, I would dream constantly of my long-lost family. Picturing, in perfect technicolour, the day I would meet a brother, a sister, a mother and then – if I was careful not to think too hard or listen to the little voice saying ‘you are stupid, Jones. None of this is real you know?’ – the dream became almost real and I would walk about with a huge smile on my face, my heart in full song.

That was years and years ago, before I met my very real and very murderous brother who had his sights set on destroying me – Sorry. I need to slow down.

Like I said, I grew up desperate for a family of my own and obviously that had made soup of my brain because here I was saving the brother who, less than twentyfour hours ago, had tried to burn me alive.

I close my eyes and relive the moment: my brother lunges as Lytania, leader of the horse-clan, releases an arrow and I find 18

Red arrives in Sherborne, hoping to start a ‘normal’ life with distant relative, Great-Aunt Agatha. But Agatha has other ideas. Before Red can unpack a suitcase, they have been pushed through to the Skygate, a magical ledge positioned hundreds of miles above oldWessex. Now, with help from Agatha’s Labrador Ted and Lytania, leader of the horse-clan, Red must become the newest Guardian of the Skygate and arrest her malicious long-lost brother, who has already tried to destroy the ancient forest and murder Red…

myself hurtling off her back, knocking my brother down so the arrow sails over our heads.

For what feels like a year, we stare at one another in disbelief and then Lytania’s voice breaks the silence, ‘Take him!’ and immediately my brother is hoisted to his feet, arms quickly tied behind his back.

‘You saved me?’ he asks. His voice is small and for the first time I feel hopeful.

Perhaps he is afraid? The cruelty and malice just a mask he wears to hide the real him; a boy that is sad and alone and wants a family as much as I do. Perhaps there is a soft side, underneath the cruel facade?

I stare into eyes, that are so similar to mine, and nod. There isn’t really anything I can say.

We make our way back across the forest towards Lytania’s camp. Dusk is settling with the click-clack of nesting birds, and a great orange sun dipping below the black line of tree.

Lytania and I sit together and plan, ‘Red, you have to understand, we cannot trust him. He’s not like you.’

‘I know, of course, but at least let me talk to him. There could be a reason behind what he did? Our mum vanished, leaving

him all alone. That’s enough to give anyone trust issues.’

She swishes her long tail and raises an eyebrow at me, ‘Of course you can talk to him, but…don’t get your hopes up. He is not a good person. I know this is hard for you to hear but, he hates you...I can see it, whenever he looks at you. Even Ted can sense it. Have you noticed he will not leave your side whenever your brother is near?’

I nod, but to be honest I’m not really listening. My stupid heart won’t stop singing. A brother! Here! And I just know I can make him see. We can guard the Skygate together, as a family.

Lytania walks me to the tent where he is imprisoned. The guards step to one side and I walk in alone. My eyes soon adjust to the low light – he is sat, cross-legged, his bound hands fastened behind him, chin resting on his chest. I think he is asleep but then his voice breaks the stillness, ‘Red. How will I ever repay you?’

I feel myself redden with pride. Thank goodness this tent is so dark. ‘You are family. I couldn’t watch you die.’

His laugh surprises me, ‘But I would have watched you die. Does that not scare you?

I’m a monster.’

CHILDREN

SKYGATE AUTHOR BIO I cross the tent quickly and kneel before him, ‘I’m sure that’s not true. Perhaps you thought I was dangerous? Perhaps you were just protecting your clan? Perhaps you had no choice?’

He finally meets my eye and there are tears, heavy, threatening to spill onto his cheek. ‘We saw you flying. My clan, they believe that only evil spirits fly…I had no choice.’

I grasp his shoulder, ‘I understand. Please, don’t cry. I understand.’

His sniffs and smiles gratefully, ‘I promise I’ll be a good brother to you from now on, Red.’

Zoe Gray grew up in the Somerset countryside where she and her brother made up whole imaginary worlds full of witches, troll-families and duck-queens. She has always loved magical stories and spent her childhood either reading or writing them. Later she studied English at Lancaster University, going on to share her love of words teaching in a London secondary school. Although missing her wonderful students, she is happy to be back in the countryside with her husband, son and Labrador Teddy.

Zoe is currently writing her first novel for children.

zoegraywriter@gmail.com

‘What’s your name?’ I ask, settling down beside him.

‘The clan know me as Henry. It’s the name all the men in my family were given. But mother, our mother – she always called me Harry.’

‘Well then, that’s what I’ll call you. Harry. It suits you.’

He laughs and, I’m quite sure, the steely edge to his eye softens.

We sit up for most of the night and talk through our lives. Mine: boring and lonely until I became the two-hundred-and-fifteenth Guardian of the Skygate. His: full of power and politics and control, until I dropped out of the air and ruined everything.

I am almost asleep when he asks, ‘So if our mother could fly, and you can fly, then…surely, that means I can fly too?’

‘Hmmm. Maybe,’ I say sleepily. ‘But could just be the Guardian of Skygate. Not sure…’

‘Will you teach me, Red? Will you tell me how to fly? Please?’

And I don’t know why I do it. Perhaps it is because I am halfasleep, or perhaps it is my stupid, lonely heart overriding all of the voices in my head that are protesting in loud, shrill voices demanding that I ‘stop! stop! stop speaking, Red!’. But I do not stop speaking and in the morning when I wake up, full of regret, his sweet, sleeping face calms me. He looks so much like me. I have told him how to fly but that’s what siblings do, they share everything. I can trust him. Everything will be fine.

But of course, I was wrong. Everything was far from fine and trusting Harry was the biggest mistake I would ever make.

To be continued…

19

FASHION

SPRING INTO

FASHION

By Sarah Jane Lewis - former Vogue Magazine Retail Fashion Editor Here we are up and running again with shops OPEN! Hurrah again! There have been some tragic casualties on the high street, particularly big ones such as Debenhams, Topshop, Oasis and closure of several John Lewis stores, but the ‘indies’ are fighting their corner with loyal customers desperate for fresh ideas, fed up with online shopping and wanting to stay local to see, feel and try on clothes.

The survivors appear to be those who have diversified more into ‘lifestyle’ i.e. they are not just stocking fashion and accessories, but interior merchandise and gifts to try and stay afloat, and combat or combine with the ever increasing online shopping. It’s clear this is because the owners love beautiful items as their customers do! Great to be out of leggings and ‘slop tops’ into colourful on-trend clothes, have hair done, paint nails and feel glamorous again! Whoopee!

THE CIRCUS -– Cheap Street, Sherborne (as seen on front cover) is a blaze of colour and joy across fashion, accessories, jewellery, gifts, children’s wear, fun accessories, cosmetics, occasional furniture, lighting, ceramics and so much more! When you walk into the shop (which is large across two floors), you don’t want to leave – so delicious is all the merchandise! Allow plenty of time to absorb this beautifully displayed rainbow of colour!

Established for six years, owner Sam Bourne is the sixth generation of the Dodge family (famed in Sherborne, surrounding area and far beyond for antiques, furniture and 20

superior upholstery). Sam is totally devoted to her shop and I spent a most enjoyable hour with her, happily perusing!

Amongst the many colourful ranges at The Circus this season are some new labels: relaxed holiday/beachwear by Archail Kori from Greece and Sartoria Saracena from Italy – both around the £100 mark.

There are masses of beautiful cashmere in brights and pastels, featuring top brands Brodie, 360 and new this season, Van Kukil.

Accessories include sparkly trainers by Date at around £160 and beautiful white trainers

by Philip Hog of Stockholm.

English brands feature strongly – thank goodness! Look out for the Temperley range with some of Alice’s beautiful fashion designs, plus Temperley sisters Matilda’s photos and Mary’s cosmetic range ‘Make’.

Also find Retro dresses by Jessica Russell Flint and other labels, Mercy Delta, Primrose Park & Stardust. For a more tailored, conservative look, famous British designer Paul Smith. Fabulous ankle boots by Penelope Chilvers.

Local designers feature with unique velvet printed clutch bags by Shaftesburybased Corita Rose, beautiful silk scarves

by Charlotte Macmillan-Scott and pretty jewellery designed by Charlie Dodge.

Circus 2 for men (opposite) stocks mainly casual wear with Tresanti Shirts (Dutch/ Italian collaboration) at £79-£89 and again, lots of cashmere.

Finally, see the occasional furniture, amazing Indian embroidered chairs in rainbow colours and even some chandeliers! The Circle is truly a fantastic lifestyle boutique.

You won’t want to leave! Instagram: @ thecircussherborne. Tel: 01935 816551.

NEEDFUL THINGS – Castle Cary At Needful Things of Castle Cary, the clothing brand ‘Pomodoro’ offers affordable, on-trend, easy to use fashion.

This summer sees four uplifting themes which reflect our yearning to holiday: ‘Safari’ in black and stone, khaki and lime with striking zebra prints too; ‘Desert’ brings soft apricot, mink, stone and cream; ‘Coastal’ full

FASHION

Pittards Heritage Bucket Bag £295

The Circus - colourful fashion

of marine blues, seafoam, denim and white; ‘Fiesta’ with its slightly stronger corals, blues and white.

BÖSCHEN LINGERIE & SWIMWEAR – Shaftesbury

Needful Things knows what its customers love about this brand and so have focussed their stock on the easy pull-on Bengalin 7/8 trouser, fabulously flattering tunic tops; midi-length swing dresses and skirts plus a simply stylish jacket to bring it all together.

This delightful store also offers co-ordinating handbags, purses, scarves and jewellery to complete your sensational summer wardrobe!

As a destination store, Needful Things offers so much more than good-value clothing. gifts and decorative items appeal to all tastes and are a joy to browse; mirrors, framed prints, bronze, china and glassware are presented in an eclectic and entertaining way, in amongst candles and scented diffusers which tempt you to linger a while and discover something intriguingly different!

Böschen is a beautifully appointed high class lingerie and swimwear boutique in the heart of Shaftesbury, the stunning Dorset Saxon hill top town. Every Böschen customer is treated to a luxurious and relaxed lingerie shopping experience, with an ambience that is friendly, yet confidential – relaxed, but professional.

Lise Charmel is globally renowned for its luxurious brand and expertise in creating heavenly pieces. Hand placed motifs, the finest lace, 3D embroidery mounted on tulle or guipure lace – all handmade, finished to exacting standards. Without doubt Lise Charmel is the Bentley Continental of the lingerie world. The beauty and comfort of its lingerie is a dream!

Additionally, other brand offerings include Aubade, Chantelle Group, Antinéa, Antigel, Panache and Royce, the speciality

The third department within Needful Things is dedicated to its bespoke soft furnishings service. This friendly and knowledgeable team work tirelessly to create your perfect, individual home decor solution from a fabric, paint and wallpaper library housing over 500 pattern books and samples. Needful Things Interiors will guide you to a creative new look for your home. Whether you need a one-off window dressing or a complete home makeover, with over 40 years’ experience of interpreting customers’ visions, they offer a confident, supportive service which customers enjoy time and again.

PITTARDS – Yeovil – World-class leather Established in 1826, Pittards has been making high quality leather in England for almost 200 years. Now, with an expertise that extends to crafting fine leather goods, the Pittards England Collection and its Daines & Hathaway brand are also made at the company headquarters in Somerset – bags, gloves and travel accessories of superior quality.

At its leather warehouse you’ll find a wide selection of hides, skins and small leather pieces, many in unique colours, prints or special effects. Coffee shop and free parking is also available on site. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.

Pittards has been trading with Ethiopia for about 100 years and established its own manufacturing there in 2005. It works closely with the community and Pittards Ethiopia supports the skills of tomorrow through its work with local schools, youth teams and close relationships with charities.

21

FASHION

Circle Green Tote Bag mastectomy brand, plus swimwear ranges Lise Charmel, Antigel, Miraclesuit, Maryan Mehlhorn, Moontide and Aqua Blu. As an independent lingerie boutique from a humbling rural setting, the retailer demonstrates an obvious delight in being part of a fabulous industry that innovates and explores environmentally responsible manufacturing processes, and that respects

traditions and craftsmanship whilst moving forwards combining sustainable alternatives for the future.

With the various springtime lockdown easements on the horizon, it is an exciting time for independent retailers to welcome back their customers, catch up whilst they peruse the lovely new collections and, embrace tenacious inner strengths for emerging from this unprecedented ordeal! Albeit,

EXQUISTE LINGERIE THE PERFECT GIFT Beautiful Lingerie and Nightwear Gift Vouchers Available Oscar De La Renta Parfumé Click and Collect Service

Opening Times: 10am to 5pm 3a Salisbury Street, Shaftesbury

01747 858 758

boschenlingerie.co.uk

Are you a maker/artist/ creative?

Interested in selling in our new shop?

We are looking for local makers and sellers to become part of the Circle Green community. Fashion, gifts or homeware with an eco or recycled message at heart.

If you are interested in selling your product in our new shop please do get in touch with Lucy: @circlegreenuk 01458 273485 4 Brunel Shopping Precinct, Somerton 22

Needful Things palm shirt dress

Behind Clouds flats with a new discipline or a few extra pounds!

CIRCLE GREEN – Somerton

It has been a long hibernation but Circle Green in Somerton emerges this spring with its doors open again from 20 April.

Lucy Green, who took over the clothing agency formerly known as The Dress Circle, looks forward to welcoming you in-store and driving change for the business. Lucy’s focus is firmly on reducing, reusing and recycling: rehoming clothing and accessories; promoting sales of reimagined fabrics and encouraging gratitude for what we have. If this resonates with you or someone you know, please get in touch. You can get involved by selling your great quality clothes and accessories in the shop on a 50:50 commission basis.

Preloved items will ideally be of natural fibres like cotton, linen, wool (especially cashmere) and leather. If you are a maker or artist working with upcycled textiles and feel ready to share your creativity, Circle Green is the place for a gentle try. Follow Circle Green on Instagram @circlegreenuk or visit in person at 4 Brunel Shopping Precinct, Somerton. To sell at Circle Green, please call and speak to Lucy 01458 273485.

Fashion Extra

Perri Ashby of Sherborne says: ‘We are delighted to be open again! For many of our clients, this has meant resuming their

special occasion and wedding outfits which were designed before the first lockdown. Some of these occasions will probably be arranged at the last minute, and we have prepared many new styles ahead of time, which can be altered to suit clients via our bespoke service. This season we will be featuring plenty of our sumptuous velvets, which is one of our key fabrics in every collection.

The new season collection will be launching shortly, including gorgeous hats.’ www.perriashby. co.uk.

Behind Clouds – Market Place, Somerton (shoes and accessories) Owner Liz Saunders reports lots of bright colours around this season especially trainers and pumps – white still leads the cast with animal print not far behind, so needless to say a good selection. Trainers have been accepted now by all age groups as so easy to wear with jeans, skirts and dresses. Lines are: Tamaris, Caprice, Rieker, Riva and Lunar.

Kilver Court – Shepton Mallet are holding a six-week programme of warehouse sales: Ted Baker, 29 April-3 May; Anthropologie, 13-17 May; Reiss, 27-31 May. Mine Boutique – Shaftesbury has added to its fabulous range of designer clothing with Fabienne Chabot.

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

INSPIRATIONS FOR THE CURIOUS SHOPPER

By Dawn Woodward, The Emporium, Yeovil

Celebrating 10 years of independent trade at the Emporium in Yeovil From humble beginnings 10 years ago The Emporium in Yeovil has gone from strength to strength since its initial launch in 2011. It opened originally with just a handful of traders in its current location on Princes Street in the town centre of Yeovil.

The Emporium has now established itself as a popular and well-known store within the town and is a firm favourite with many customers who love to visit us.

We are now home to over 60 different independent shops all trading collaboratively under one roof. Located in the heart of Yeovil’s town centre we provide

The interior design shop, Trove Designs has been revamped and refocused during lockdown, it looks stunning! Come and explore the range of stock and services for your home available at The Emporium.

a beautiful shopping experience for our customers and have a wonderful range of stock.

Since we launched, it’s not only the number of traders that has increased but also the quality of the traders that we have here in the shop! The stock ranges from antiques, gifts, collectables, homewares, fashion, furnishings, crafts, interior design, and so much more. The Emporium has developed into a wonderful community and it’s the people who volunteer, shop, trade and work at the shop who have made it into the friendly and welcoming place that it is.

Looking back over the last 10 years, I’m struck by the huge number of people who have worked or volunteered at The Emporium; it’s been a great experience to see the development and continued success of those who have worked with us.

Currently we are enjoying the company of ten amazing individuals who have started working at The Emporium through the Government’s Kickstart scheme. They have been so helpful and at the same time developing great Please do get in touch if you’d like to join us as a employability skills – well done to trader at The Emporium. Contact us as always in our Kickstart team! the following ways: We’re delighted to have recently Email: info@theemporiumyeovil.co.uk welcomed some brand new Phone (shop): 01935 579482 shops into The Emporium, one of which is The Quintessential Phone (office & cafe) 01935 411378 English Garden, a shop filled Website: www.theemporiumyeovil.co.uk with beautiful potted plants and garden accessories.

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

23

BOOKS

BOOK REVIEW

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

By Wayne, Winstones

‘If you cannot speak truth at a beheading, when can you speak it?’

The Mirror and the Light

By Hilary Mantel | £9.99 pbck This month’s choice may seem predictable but the hardback was released just before lockdown and the paperback just after, and I thought it important that with all the distractions we don’t forget this extraordinary and brilliant sequel to Wolf Hall.

England, May 1536. Anne Boleyn is dead, decapitated in the space of a heartbeat by a hired French executioner.

As her remains are bundled into oblivion, Thomas Cromwell breakfasts with the victors. The blacksmith’s son from Putney emerges from the spring’s bloodbath to continue his climb to power and wealth, while his formidable master, Henry VIII,

settles to short-lived happiness with his third queen, Jane Seymour. Cromwell is a man with only his wits to rely on; he has no great family to back him, no private army. Despite rebellion at home, traitors plotting abroad and the threat of invasion testing Henry’s regime to breaking point, Cromwell’s robust imagination sees a new country in the mirror of the future. But can a nation, or a person, shed the past like a skin? Do the dead continually unbury themselves? What will you do, the Spanish ambassador asks Cromwell, when the king turns on you, as sooner or later he turns on everyone close to him? With The Mirror and the Light, Hilary Mantel brings to a triumphant close the trilogy she began with Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies.

She traces the final years of Thomas Cromwell, the boy from nowhere who

climbs to the heights of power, offering a defining portrait of predator and prey, of a ferocious contest between present and past, between royal will and a common man’s vision: of a modern nation making itself through conflict, passion and courage.

Shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction 2020. Longlisted for the Booker Prize 2020. The sequel to Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies, the stunning conclusion to Hilary Mantel’s Man Booker Prize-winning Wolf Hall trilogy.

ALWAYS IN THE DARK

by Diane Harding ǀ £10 pbck, £3.99 Kindle Published by BLKDOG, this is a gripping and deeply moving memoir by a south-west based author that tells of scandal and survival and is her search for answers from a family shrouded in secrets. It’s a mysterious tale of growing up with her mother trapped in a ménage à trois (unbeknown to author Diane) on a continent from which there is no escape.

After her parents emigrated post-war, Diane spends her idyllic and cosy childhood in the leafy suburbs of Cape Town - a childhood which is ruined at the age of three after the arrival of a visitor. Her roller coaster existence and mother’s mental breakdown when she is eight adds to her confusion. Her father works for Cadbury’s and after securing a transfer with the company, the family move back to England when she is fourteen. After many moves and a rootless childhood, the family settle in the south-west where the scandal continues to follow them around.

It is obvious Diane’s home life is a weird one and it is only after her mother’s death decades later that she rummages through her secret box and unearths a wealth of staggering information she didn’t know existed. But she is a young child when it all begins and the fact she has lived her life at a level of complete naivety is beyond baffling. Because of the hurt and embarrassment, her shocking revelation is not something she is able to share with her husband.

The search for the truth sends Diane on numerous missions to talk to many people only to discover that she is the last to know about her dysfunctional family. Her goal is to hear an apology for her ruined childhood.

It has been life changing for Diane to open up and tell her story, one she hopes will prove that however traumatic a situation, there is a way through to happiness. At a time when coercive control is taking centre stage, this book is a timely reminder of huge issues.

Amazon 5* Reviews Heart-breaking, powerful and compelling A real page turner. I didn’t want it to end. Beautifully and bravely written A gripping and intriguing true story that kept me enthralled from beginning to end This is a stylishly written memoir

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To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

ARTS

ARTS

By Julie Locke

MOVIES

Indoor entertainment venues should open following further easing of lockdown restrictions due on Monday 17 May. Check local village halls, theatres, cinemas and other entertainment venues for the return of regular screenings.

On Friday 7 May at 7.30pm is the brand-new virtual Feel Good Film Festival. This festival is a collection of the world’s best short feel-good films. Curated from the heart by the UK and Ireland Banff Film Festival tour team, this uplifting selection of films features inspirational stories about the extraordinary depth of the human spirit. From joyful explorations of wacky subcultures to heartfelt tales of triumph over adversity, the Feel Good Film Festival is a celebration of finding happiness in unexpected ways.

To find out more, watch the trailer and book tickets, visit www.feelgoodfilmfest.com. The viewing window for this event is 72 hours.

drinks and sweet treats are available before the film. Social distancing measures in place; please follow government guidelines for a safe event experience. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets £10, students £7.50, children £5. Book online at www. lewestonenterprises.co.uk/ events.

LITERARY ART

Until Friday 30 April is the 2021 international Literary Prize, an annual writing competition with cash prizes, launched by Yeovil Community Arts Association (YCAA). Now in its 18th year, the Yeovil Literary Prize has matured into a highly regarded writing competition, attracting submissions from across the globe. The competition has four categories; Novel, Short Stories, Poetry and Writing Without Restriction. Its continued popularity means that this year’s cash prizes are bigger than ever. All money raised supports talented local youngsters training for careers in the performing and creative arts, who may not otherwise be able to continue their studies.

Previous judges have included literary agents and publishers, as well as accomplished authors and poets. For further information, visit www. yeovilprize.co.uk.

Somerton Music & Arts Festival

On Friday 28 May at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Petherton Picture Show will screen its first film of 2021, and will then continue once a month until the end of the year. Details can be found on the website. To purchase tickets, phone 01460 240340 or book online. www.thedavidhall. org.uk.

On Friday 21 May and Saturday 22 May at 9.00pm at Leweston School, near Sherborne, Leweston Enterprise presents ‘Cinema under the Stars’. Friday’s movie is ‘The Blair Witch Project’ and Saturday’s is ‘The Greatest Showman’. Gates open at 8.00pm. Hot food,

Calling All Cultural Writers to get involved in the 2021 Page Turner Awards. These inclusive writing and book awards, sponsored by ProWritingAid, have with one goal – to change the lives of as many writers as possible. The team at Page Turner Awards passionately believes that talented writers can be from any background, age, race, religion, or interest.

Page Turner Awards gives writers and authors the chance to enter unpublished or published fiction and nonfiction and screenplays, to be read by a carefully curated judging panel made up of influential players in the publishing industry. Prizes span everything from mentorships to audiobook production and publishing packages.

Submissions close on Monday 31 May. Find out more about The Page Turner at www. pageturnerawards.com.

Swan Arts for a unique SAW members’ exhibition ‘In Pursuit of Spring’. This exhibition has been inspired by poet Edward Thomas’ account of his journey by bicycle between London and Somerset to meet the arrival of spring in 1913.

Responding to various themes in Thomas’ book In Pursuit of Spring, such as hope, change and renewal, around fifty SAW members have created artwork to illustrate the Somerset leg of Thomas’ journey. The exhibition will be online from the beginning of April. For further information, visit www. blackswanarts.org.uk or www. somersetartworks.org.uk.

VISUAL ART

Until Saturday 8 May, Somerset Art Works (SAW) has joined forces with Black

Until Tuesday 18 May is Creative Coverage’s spring

About the Festival...

The Somerton Arts & Music Festival brings a week of music, art, culture and family fun at venues across the town with a wide variety of events to suit all tastes and age groups, many of which are free including plenty of bands playing at the local Somerton hostelries.

Get your tickets now!

Advance tickets are available now online at:

www.somertonartsfestival .co.uk/tickets www.somerstock.com/ tickets Enquiries: 07928 508700 Tickets will also be available to buy at Somerton Library from 29th May.

Let’s get social...

Diary...

Traditional Mus ic evenings Festival Quiz N ight Festival Church Service Talks & Nature Walks Jive night All Week...

Great bands pla yin around Somerto g at the pubs in and n - all FREE en try

Family Fun Da

y (Sun 4th July) Entertainment an the family with d attractions for all classic cars thr own in...

So merstock (Sat 10

th July) Something for ev on three stage eryone with 15 bands s, food & licen ced bars

Oktoberfest (Sat

9t

h October) The ultimate Ba varian part nig ht ............ ....................

For full details

....................

...........

visit

www.somerto

nartsfestival.c

o.uk

thing that’s Don’t miss a thing! Keep up to date with every l offers and happening in Somerton this July as well as specia pages competitions by following our social media officialsomertonfestival somertonfest somertonfestival somerstockmusic sic tockmu somers sic tockmu somers

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25

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.

ARTS

Petal Poise by Helen Simpson

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East Lambrook Manor Gardens is hosting Helen’s first solo exhibition in four years and her first in Somerset. A very appropriate place for her paintings as many of the plants that inspire her work and which she has spent many hours of her life painting grow in this very special garden.

The exhibition in May will be predominately oil paintings, with some of Helen’s ceramics. A larger exhibition will follow in July/August using two galleries, where Helen’s pastels will also be exhibited.

Helen’s paintings are no ordinary views of flowers. They are well observed, beautifully drawn but not immediately recognisable. This is partly due to their enlarged scale, but mainly because Helen wants to draw you into the silent drama and inherent energy in the cycle of plant life. ‘There is often a hint of something slightly other-worldly, slightly spiritual, something one step beyond what you can see.’ ‘Petal Poise’ is Helen’s chosen title for this exhibition. virtual exhibition. This features the work of prominent Dorset artists Miranda Pender from Sherborne and Sally Pinhey from Weymouth, with over 200 artworks priced from just £32 to £12,500. For the most user-friendly experience do read the catalogue first. Enjoy the exhibition and please share it with friends and family. To make a purchase contact Tim or Caroline on 01489 808621 or email info@creativecoverage.co.uk. www. creativecoverage.co.uk.

Until Sunday 6 June from 10.00am to 5.00pm at Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Bruton, there is an exhibition by Henry Taylor. For his inaugural exhibition with Hauser & Wirth, the American artist has taken over all five galleries in Somerset to present a major body of sculptural work and paintings evolving in unison across the spaces. During his four-decade long career, Henry has amassed a staggering body of highly personal work rooted in the people and communities closest to him, often manifested alongside poignant historical or pop-cultural references. For more information, phone 01749 814060 or visit www.hauserwirth.com.

From Friday 23 April to Wednesday 12 May at The Jerram Gallery, Sherborne, there is an exhibition of still life and landscapes by Emma Haggas, Vanessa 26

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‘It is this conjunction of movement and stillness that so fascinates me about flowers’, she says.

These highly observed, larger than life pastel and oil paintings of plants show us that the flower’s stillness is simply a momentary suspension of movement in a mysterious and unceasing journey from one form, one landscape, to another. This sense of movement and change is also reflected in the ceramics Helen is showing alongside her pictures.

When: Saturday 1 to Saturday 29 May Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Free entry

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to galleries. Pre-booking may be necessary, so please check information on the website. www.eastlambrook.com.

Where: The Studio and The Malthouse Gallery, East Lambrook Manor Gardens, Silver Street, East Lambrook, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5HH.

Bowman and Lynne Cartlidge. These three artists are each known for the vibrancy of their palette. The artists will be in the gallery on Friday 23 and Saturday 24 April, from 11.00am to 3.00pm, to discuss their work. Gallery open Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30am to 5.00pm. For more information, visit www.jerramgallery.com or phone 01935 815261.

From Saturday 1 to Saturday 29 May at David Simon Contemporary Art Gallery, Castle Cary, there is an exhibition ‘Picasso & His Muse: Original works by Pablo Picasso & Lydia Corbett’. Open Monday to Saturday from 10.00am to 5.30pm (closed on Wednesday and Sunday).

The gallery specialises in established and emerging British artists with a focus on semi-figurative painting, ceramics, sculpture and glass. For more information, phone 01963 359102 or visit www. davidsimoncontemporary.com.

From Tuesday 18 May to Saturday 12 June at Ilminster Arts Centre is an exhibition entitled ‘Floral Feast’. It will take place in the Main and Café Galleries (subject to government restrictions being lifted). Celebrate the coming of summer in a confectionery of colour, surrounded by birds and flowers as the freedom to meet and roam returns. This exhibition will be a feast for the eyes. Artists featured are

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Liz Watts (ceramics) and Susan Thomson (painter). Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4.00pm. Delicious cakes, lunches, coffees and takeaways on offer from Sue Foreman at the Gallery Café. To book a table or a takeaway, please call 07883 852724.

MUSIC

From Friday 2 to Saturday 10 July is the Somerton Music & Arts Festival.

The festival will include a family fun day, with a variety of events at venues across town, and reach its finale on the last day with Somerstock, Somerton’s own family friendly music festival. There will be more than 14 local, covers and original bands performing across three stages, headlined by pop and soul legends, The Christians. Somerton Recreation Ground, the venue for Somerstock, has plenty of space for all festival-goers as well as for family entertainment, food, licensed bars and on-site car parking and camping. For information and festival tickets, visit www. somertonartsfestival.co.uk.

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has curated an online concert library of its 2020/21 series of livestream concerts.

Take the opportunity to watch these concerts on demand for 30 days after

/TheConduitMag

@conduitmag

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. their performance date, plus access extra digital content for free! Digital tickets cost £9 for the real time, livestream performance as well as on demand access. Find out more at www.bsolive.com/whats-on/ bso-at-home-library. www. artsreach.co.uk/news/digitaldiary.

Concerts in the West Live concerts restart in June.

Meanwhile, for wonderful music and dazzling performances, visit www.concertsinthewest. org. Donations to support performers and Concerts in the West would be very welcome.

Petherton Folk Fest 2022 will be back bigger and better on Saturday 18 June 2022! Chair of the Petherton Folk Fest Committee, Pete Wheeler, said: ‘it was not an easy decision to forego this year’s Folk Fest but it is important that the event takes place in an environment where everyone is safe, so it is sensible to hold off until next year. We are already planning for 2022 and looking forward with huge enthusiasm to welcoming hundreds of people to a memorable day of music, dance and children’s entertainment.’ Full details of the 2022 programme will be released early next year and will feature events in Market Square, The David Hall, The

Brewers Arms pub, St Peter and St Paul’s Church and The Blake Hall - together with stalls, and other attractions.

PERFORMANCE

On Saturday 29 May from 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it is the return of the monthly Acoustic Night. Petherton Arts Trust is encouraging more local performers of all genres to come to The David Hall and perform on a professional stage. This is an evening full of extraordinary skill, talent and variety: just £2 for audience members and £1 for performers to cover the cost of heating and lighting.

All types of performance welcome – The David Hall has had music, comedy, poetry, dance and more! Everyone has the opportunity to deliver for 10 to 15 minutes with full PA and lighting. To attend as a performer or audience member, please email Chris Watts at folk@chriswatts.org or call 07715 501157. Please pre-book so the evening can be managed properly under current conditions. Payment is on the door.

Artsreach is sharing some of the brilliant cultural events that its artists have released

digitally. Take a look online at past performance programmes from seasons gone by. The page is constantly changing so keep checking and keep sharing it. For more information, check What’s On and Digital Diary at www. artsreach.co.uk.

Somerset Emergency Theatre was launched by Wassail, a registered charity, with the aim of keeping Somerset culturally connected. During Summer 2020 lockdown Wassail used grant income received from Arts Council England, South Somerset District Council and Somerset Community Foundation to commission, support or employ freelance theatre makers. As a result, there is plenty on the website to enjoy from home during this lockdown. Help artists in Somerset continue making excellent theatre by donating to Somerset Emergency Theatre. For

ARTS

further information, visit www. wassailtheatre.co.uk/somersetemergency-theatre.

Symphony of the Countryside captures the images, words, music and sounds that make up the rural landscape, featuring content collected by rural touring schemes across the country including Artsreach in Dorset. Armed with cameras and smartphones, volunteers from across the UK captured sound and video content from their communities during the March 2020 lockdown. These were stitched together by filmmaker Gemma Wearing to create a visual landscape overlaid with music and poetry.

To enjoy this short film, go to www.artsreach.co.uk/news/ digital-diary.

The Living Spit Podcast Living Spit has launched a podcast!

Artsreach favourites, Howard and Stu (and the occasional special guest) look back at past shows and discuss a whole

ART EXHIBITION 28th APRIL – 4th MAY

Shaftesbury Arts Centre 10.00 - 16.30 Mon to Sat | 11.00 - 14.00 Sun

Talking Lines and Colours

‘Talking Lines and Colours’ www.pearlgatehouse.com

As lockdown lifts, don’t miss Pearl Gatehouse’s latest exhibition, ‘Talking Lines and Colours’. Pearl says, ‘I love painting seascapes and wide Dorset landscapes, with a feel of fresh air and a sense of freedom. Recent restrictions, however, have led me to discover in my garden and locality new sources of inspiration; a desire to celebrate the rich colour of a briefly flowering peonie, pops of colour in a winter garden and the poetic, fragile beauty in imperfection; fragments of dry beech leaves, broken twigs and fading petals.

‘Drawing, mark-making and plein-air painting, the recording of form and sensation are basic to my practice. Back in my studio and gallery space, the act of painting becomes an alchemy of sustained concentration, charcoal and juicy oil paints. Pots full of brushes and rags for wiping back complete the mix.’ Visit www.pearlgatehouse.com.

Talking Lines and Colours exhibiton: Wednesday 28 April to Tuesday 4 May Opening times: Monday to Saturday from 10.00am to 4.30pm and Sunday from 11.00am to 2.00pm Where: Shaftesbury Arts Centre, 13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AR

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27

ARTS

MUSIC

host of things from how they were conceived, to tour stories and more, all with a dose of their usual humour! Tune in and listen at www.artsreach. co.uk/news/digital-diary.

The Thief’s Tale Take a listen to the second podcast from acclaimed storytellers, The Devil’s Violin. Through music and spoken word, The Devil’s Violin retell one magical adventure over five ten-minute episodes. In the best tradition of both Scheherazade and EastEnders, each episode will end with a cliffhanger. Be warned, this tale is definitely one for the grown-ups! Be prepared to be charmed, thrilled and chilled... To listen to ‘The Thief’s Tale’, click the link at www.artsreach.co.uk/ news/digital-diary.

Twisted Tales Cornish company ‘Owdyado Theatre has created an epic series of short audio plays to enjoy from home. There are many titles to choose from, such as: ‘Under the Fig Roll Tree’, walking in the garden of their new home, a young girl quizzes her father about many things, their move to the country and why they left the city in such a hurry; ‘The Right to Remain Silent’, Emily knows the answer, but won’t give it up until she gets what she wants – she’s playing dangerous mind games – who will crack first?; ‘Hogmanay’, on a lonely Victorian new year’s eve, two lost souls ponder on the true nature of ghosts. Listen to the Twisted Tales at www.artsreach.co.uk/news/digitaldiary. www.owdyado.co.uk.

CHILDREN

From Friday 23 April at 3.45pm and 5.00pm at GingerFred Dance Studio, Langport, Somerset Youth Theatre (SYT) sessions will be running after school on Fridays during term time. Come along and explore devised theatre at Langport’s all-new SYT Group, in association with Wassail Theatre and Tor Theatre. No experience necessary – although a willingness to play is essential!

SYT Group (age 7 to 11) starts at 3.45pm; SYT Company (age 12 to 18) starts at 5.00pm. £5 per session. To book a place, email rose@ wassailtheatre.co.uk. For further information, visit www.wassailtheatre.co.uk/syt-langport.

Every first Saturday from May onwards from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Bruton, is Family Saturday. These free sessions offer families a unique experience of art, design and nature. Family Saturday is inspired by the exhibition ‘Henry Taylor’; children and their families are invited to explore the exhibition and take part in creative activities. Bring an empty box or two, for example, cereal, toothpaste or match box, to create some art work. The sessions are aimed at families with children aged 6 to 14 years. Younger children are welcome and all must be supervised by parents/carers. This is a free event, however, advanced booking is essential as there are limited places. Book online at www. hauserwirth.com/events/32022-family-saturday-36.

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WHY WE LOVE RADIO PHONE-INS

By Steve Haigh, Station Manager, Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM

The phone-in has become one of radio’s most enduring features.

It all started on 4 February 1968, when a disgruntled resident in Nottingham picked up the phone to complain about his local council. But he didn’t ring the council. Instead, he called his local BBC radio station and, in doing so, became the first ever caller to a phone-in on British radio.

Today, radio stations are awash with phone-ins with listeners ranting, making extraordinary confessions over the airwaves.

So, why are radio phone-ins so popular?

BBC presenter, Vanessa Feltz, thinks the answer lies in the power and immediacy of the voice. That people want to be heard and hear other people’s voices.

The author of Understanding Radio, Andrew Crisell, believes it’s because we can’t see the people who are speaking that makes radio such an intimate and confessional medium.

Phone-ins provide lighter moments, like this caller: DJ: Hello, what’s your name?

Caller: Mark DJ: Hi, Mark, and thanks for entering our competition. Now, do you like the band AC/DC? Mark: Yeeees DJ: Right. Here’s your question. Spell AC/DC? Mark: AD…. AC DJ: Um, I’ll ask you again. Spell AC/ DC? Mark: A….D…..AC DJ: Mark, that’s not right. I’ll give you one more chance. Spell AC/DC?

Mark: AC/DC DJ: Yeeeaass!! Told you, it wasn’t hard.

OK, we’re going to give you an album by your favourite band. What album would you like?

Mark: uuhhh, anything by AD/DC would be good DJ: (breaks out laughing) great!

Mark: Oh, I’ll get it right one of these days.

Listeners love to hear callers like that, but phone-ins do have a more serious side to them.

They are a channel for expressing grief and anger, and at times of national disagreement - like Brexit - for a collective venting of opinions.

I do wonder sometimes though if phone-ins degrade rather than add to our democratic processes. When prejudiced views are discharged, a studio host will often use techniques to bait callers whose opinions differ from their own. And, though they allow listeners to argue back, the power with phone-ins always rests in the hands of the studio host. Indeed, some political phone-ins sound as if they exist solely to set up extreme positions.

Radio stations draw on social media, reading out tweets and emails to involve listeners in phone-ins. It’s how the concept has reinvented itself, helped by mobile phones that have made it easier and somehow more modern to take part.

Radio stations love phone-ins because they turn news into entertainment, allowing listeners to eavesdrop on other’s experiences and opinions.

Whatever your views on phone-ins, there can be no doubting that hearing a sloppy caller being pulled up by a sharp-minded studio host can make for entertaining listening.

New Local Radio Station for Yeovil and South Somerset

Mark: How to spell A….D…DC. I’m getting this all wrong

DJ: Mark, you’re getting this seriously wrong. Just spell AC/DC? Mark: AD/DC DJ: No .. it’s AC/DC

The number to call to take part on Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM is 01935 319000 or email info@radioninesprings. co.uk.

Mark: AD/DC DJ: Look. A…C…D…C. Just say that

R ADIO 104.5 FM

SPRINGS

You can’t get more Local!

INTERIORS

EXPLORING THE NEW INTERIOR DESIGN TREND - JAPANDI

By Alec and Caroline Grant, from Grants of Somerset

By now, many of us have used lockdown and our extra time at home to sort through our cupboards, review our wardrobes and try to lose some clutter. Alongside this activity, many will have also experienced a newfound desire for elegant simplicity, organisation and minimalism without losing the heart of the home. If this is you, then one of 2021’s big interior design trends – Japandi – will be right up your street.

This minimalist approach is not just about design, it’s about a way of life – one that’s simpler and cleaner, functional whilst remaining warm and calming.

It’s particularly suited for smaller spaces and open-plan living.

As the name suggests, this trend is a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian (or Nordic) design elements. This clever combination blends together two complementing design styles, whilst balancing the excesses of each. Where Japanese interiors can feel sleek but clinical, the marriage with Scandinavian design compensates with comfort and cosiness.

The Japandi colour palette is soft and muted so stone, soft hues or neutral tones are a must on interior walls, with colours ranging from beige, pale pinks and greens to dove greys. Darker accents deliver a striking contrast through blacks or dark charcoal greys. For instance, a black framed mirror against a pale walled backdrop.

Nature and natural textures play a part in this interior design ethos too. To keep with the open and airy feel, opt for lighter woods. You can be less concerned about mixing different finishes, just make sure they are within the same tonal range so the woods will always complement each other. Don’t forget to include a few house plants.

To add warmth to your Japandi interior, bring different textures and fabrics into the mix. This is where the Scandinavian influence in your functional living will really make your house a home as you can explore luxurious fabrics from silk and velvet to cashmere.

Alternatively, you can go down a more rustic path with intricate patterns and bursts of colour.

introduce your carefully curated items and then support the look further through mirrors, picture frames, vases and lamps. Just remember, this hybrid is about functionality over decoration, so choose your accessories wisely.

It’s easy to see why Japandi is a trend for the year. It fits with the desire to maintain all of the great work we’ve done with decluttering and clean lines, whilst ensuring we don’t lose sight of the fact that we still want a home which is warm and inviting.

If you have a vibrant statement piece hiding away in a corner because you’re never quite sure where it should be displayed, then Japandi is your go-to trend. With a blank canvas backdrop, you’re free to

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ANTIQUES

PHYSICAL VIEWING MAKES A COMEBACK! At Acreman St. Antiques Auction our March online-only sale was a great success with 90% of items sold achieving great

prices across the board, including the wonderful collection of

Japanese woodblock prints, the best seeing a £1,000 hammer

price achieved along with the Oriental carpets and rugs, the best one selling for £1,000 hammer price and a small antique carpet saddlebag selling for £600 hammer.

With over 200 lots of jewellery up for grabs and thanks to your generous donations, 64 lots selling on behalf of the Breast Cancer Unit Appeal at Yeovil Hospital raising over £4,500.

For our 30 April online sale we are looking forward to being able to allow physical viewing by appointment - following the government Covid-19 guidelines.

Items have been pouring in and we have on offer a wide selection of entries including jewellery, silver, furniture to include an oak Arts & Crafts blanket box dated 1905 with carved decoration depicting griffins, est. £100-£200, a wonderful Aesthetic Movement glazed-top mahogany cabinet in the manner of Bruce Talbot, est. £300-£500 and a pair of oriental hardwood-inlaid side tables, est. £150-£250. Also on offer is a large selection of paintings and pictures, oriental, garden

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items, general antiques and collectables. Viewing: Thursday 29 April 9am-5pm.

We are inviting entries for our 28 May online auction (by appointment) and also entries for our upcoming specialist textiles, fashion and apparel auction to include designer and vintage clothing, antique lace and linen, tapestries and needlepoint, sewing-related items, soft furnishings and fabrics.

We are happy to give free valuations and appraisals on any items you may be considering for auction and home visits can be arranged - following the government Covid-19 guidelines. We will take in from single items up to complete house clearances.

For any enquiries, please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577/01935 508764 or at auction@acremanstreetantiques. co.uk.

ACREMAN ST. ANTIQUES

Auction

SHERBORNE FINE ART, COLLECTABLES & GENERAL AUCTION

Friday 30th April ONLINE ONLY

through easyliveauction.com

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT THURSDAY 29th APRIL

18ct cornelian intaglio ring est. £200-£250

We are now taking in for our 28th May auction For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman 07908 333577 / 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

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SHERBORNE WALKS

TOWN PARKS REMAIN VITAL TO OUR WELL-BEING

By Paul Birbeck, Sherborne Walks & Blue Badge Tour Guide visitors alike with attractive surroundings in which to enjoy their leisure time.

To encourage their use, more attractions were provided: music, sports facilities, and horticultural displays. As it became clear that open space within a town brought many benefits, more councils actively sought to secure parks and recreation grounds. The height of the parks movement coincided with a fashion for generous philanthropic gestures, and the gift of a park from a wealthy citizen became a common occurrence. Those less well off frequently did their bit too, and much open space was secured by public subscription.

If nothing else, lockdowns have emphasised the importance of open spaces to our communities. By the 1830s Victorians had also recognised the importance of providing opportunities for people to escape overcrowded, diseaseridden, squalid housing and began a programme of creating town parks which we still enjoy today.

The 1840s saw parliament pass a series of important Acts aimed at improving health and political stability. The Public Heath Act (1848) provided a framework for local authorities to take charge of local health and made it clear that the health of the population was an issue of political, economic and social importance; as too were green spaces. Local authorities were given the power and financial incentives to ‘provide, maintain, lay out, plant, and improve areas which could be used as public Walks or Pleasure Grounds’ and to purchase land for parks and other amenities. By the end of the Victorian era the need for public open space had become widely appreciated. More public parks were opened between 1885 and 1914 than either before or after this period.

Increasingly, parks became symbols of civic pride, providing inhabitants and

Parks and protected public lands are proven to improve water quality, protect groundwater, prevent flooding, improve the quality of the air we breathe, provide vegetative buffers to development, produce habitat for wildlife, and provide a place for children and families to connect with nature and recreate outdoors.

We are fortunate to have so many different types of park areas in and around our towns. These range from those associated with historic estates, like Stourhead, Longleat, Montacute and Sherborne Castle, to local play parks and nature reserves.

Two areas well illustrate the legacy of our Victorian ancestors - Ninesprings (Yeovil Country Park) and Pageant Gardens in Sherborne.

middle of the twentieth century the public only had access by ticket obtainable from the owner, Colonel HB Batten, the Town Clerk.

In the late twentieth century South Somerset Council took over ownership, restored the original site and incorporated it into the 127-acre Yeovil Country Park which remains a very well-maintained, popular and well utilized space for children, naturalists, family activities or simply a place to sit and contemplate.

Rare water vole have been seen amongst the ducks, swans and other fauna at the site.

Pageant Gardens is a two-acre garden opposite Sherborne Railway Station designed in 1905 by FW Mayer for Veitch and Son of Exeter. The land was donated by Colonel F Wingfield Digby in memory of his father. The money raised at the ‘Mother of All Pageants’ in 1905 contributed towards the landscaping and conversion of a marshy area into a tranquil, scenic park, complete with pools, a wonderful Edwardian bandstand, and shrubs and trees that attract a variety of wildlife, including rarely seen birds like goldcrests and tree creepers.

Nothing changes – the need to access open space for our mental health and well-being has rarely been more important.

Now part of Yeovil Country Park, Ninesprings is essentially a broad-leaved woodland valley of some twenty acres on the southeast edge of Yeovil with nine springs supplying water to small streams and attractive ponds.

It was developed as an ornamental park for the Aldon estate during the early nineteenth century and included walks, bridges, grottoes, springs and lakes. Until the

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31

FOOD & DRINK

Gluten-Free Pakoras

TRY THESE GLUTEN-FREE PAKORAS

By Khrishma Preston, The Alternative Indian As I write this column we are easing out of lockdown and beginning to see non-essential shops and businesses open. We can again, although tentatively, begin to meet loved ones in our gardens and as summer approaches prepare to have family and friends visit. Along with all the excitement this brings I have my own exciting news to tell you.

INGREDIENTS

8 new potatoes, cut into quarters/sixths lengthwise and blanched for 5 mins 1 large carrot, sliced into chips 1 large red onion, cut into wedges 1 large courgette, sliced into chips 1 head of broccoli, cut off florets keeping them as large as possible ½ head of cauliflower, cut off florets keeping them as large as possible Handful of mixed chillies, these can be made into pakoras with or without the seeds or you can finely chop them and add them to your batter below.

BATTER: Approx. 200g/1 cup besan/chickpea flour

Having recently been inspected by the environmental health team I have been awarded a 5-star rating, and am now able to launch my new website on Friday 30 April, www. thealternativeindian.com. I shall be restarting my business selling my own spice boxes, spice mixes and Indian pastes. My catering activities can slowly start up again beginning with monthly pop-up evenings hosted by The Helyar Arms in East Coker. These will be three-course set meals on Wednesday evenings commencing on 2 June. Further details will be available on our Facebook pages and websites.

¼ tsp baking soda

This month I want to share a recipe for a quick and economic platter of vegetable pakoras, ideal to serve with drinks in the garden. Pakoras - Indian fritters – are something I’ve loved since I was a kid. They are easy to whip up, can be traditionally deepfried or healthily oven baked, and can be reheated or frozen.

2 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped

I would also like to share one of my favourite local finds since moving here and that is Bridge Farm’s Chilli and Ginger Cider from East Chinnock. I use this cider in my signature Ginger Pig dish, and I have spent some time developing my Chilli and Ginger Cider Pakora recipe below. On my YouTube channel (The Alternative Indian) I have also published a couple of cocktail recipes and a chutney cheat to accompany my pakoras as pictured below.

These gluten-free vegan pakoras can be made with whatever firm veg you have at home. Just make sure they are cut uniformly to provide a more even cook for each type of veg. The pakoras are fried, however, if you prefer to oven bake them please be aware they will not have the classic crispiness expected, but they are delicious none the less. Here I used a variety of vegetables where each will give you a different flavour and texture. You could always use the batter to make a more classic onion bhaji which should beat your local takeout.

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Serves Mixed sharing plate feeding around 6 people Prep time 10 mins | Resting time 10 mins Cook time 25 mins

200ml Bridge Farm Chilli and Ginger Cider 4 heaped tsp garlic granules or 6 garlic cloves, minced 3 tsp salt 3 tsp cumin seeds 6 heaped tsp cumin-coriander powder 2 tsp turmeric 5 tsp mild paprika or hot chilli powder 2 tsp smoked paprika 2 tsp ginger powder or 1 inch grated ginger

About 200ml water, to adjust consistency

METHOD Cut all the veg uniformly into chip-like sticks, keeping the vegetables in separate bowls. Make the batter into the consistency of French crepes so it is nice and thin. Leave covered to rest at room temperature for 10 mins. In the meantime, heat your oil in a heavy-bottomed pan ready to deep-fry. Test your oil is hot enough by dropping a little batter into the oil. If it browns and rises immediately then it is ready. Starting with the firmest vegetable, in this case the potatoes, drop them into your batter making sure they are coated evenly. Individually, slowly lower each piece into the oil. Do not overcrowd the oil – you don’t want the individual pakoras to stick to each other as this will mean they won’t cook properly. Carefully remove a pakora and test it is cooked through. Especially the potatoes – no one wants to eat an undercooked potato. These will also have the longest cooking time. When ready, the pakoras should be a nice deep golden brown. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to allow excess oil to drain. Repeat the same process with each type of vegetable.

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FOOD & DRINK

THE HEALTHY WEIGH Enjoy a 10% Discount with this Code!

We opened The Healthy Weigh in Sherborne on 20 February 2021. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our valued customers and everyone who just popped in to our shop to have a look around.

We are focussed on doing everything that we can to look after our planet and to help you all have a healthier and happier life style.

We sell as many organic and locally sourced products that we can. If you are unable to find what you are looking for then please let us know and we will try to get it for you.

You can bring in your own containers, bottles or bags … however we can supply these for you if you prefer; our

containers are made from recycled materials.

SHERBORNE’S NEW ORGANIC ZERO WASTE SHOP

We also sell gift hampers these are completely bespoke and are made up of the products that you want. These make an ideal gift for birthdays, anniversaries, company prizes, or raffles. Prices start from as little as £15.00.

Enjoy an affordable, healthier lifestyle whilst having a positive impact on our planet.

High quality sustainable produce, much of it locally sourced Tofu, Tempeh, Komboucha, Pasta, Herbs, Spices, Coffee, Preserves, Chutney, Olive and Rapeseed oils + much more.

This past year has been extremely difficult for everyone and has affected people in different ways. We would like to welcome customers in to our Covid secure shop and to show our appreciation to you all we will be offering a 10% discount valid until 31 May. Thank you, Tim & Lisa

Orders now being taken for bespoke Gift Hampers please visit our shop or email for more details The Healthy Weigh, 6 Swan Yard, Cheap Street, Dorset DT9 3AX sales@thwsherborne.co.uk | 07891 897110 www.thwsherborne.co.uk

10% discount Code: THW0

Tales from the Trading Post What a year it’s been! Last January, there we were, still glowing from memories of the Christmas rush - we had stocked perfectly for the season; no lonely Christmas puddings left on the shelf, no solitary mince pies having to be eaten up for our elevenses. We started to plan how to improve sales of our organic veg box scheme ….. and then the world turned upside down!

Suddenly, by the end of March our box scheme order of six to 12 boxes every Tuesday was now over 50 boxes a day, six days a week.

Adapting very quickly to the sudden rush of orders and able to provide a delivery and contactless collection service where supermarkets were struggling, we hit the ground running. We were inundated with requests and not just for our veg boxes, but for everyday essentials, such as, milk, bread, cheese, meat and tinned goods.

The first few weeks were a struggle; we ended up having to close the shop to walk-in customers so we could fulfil all the orders coming through. Our staff worked all the hours of the day and into the night on occasions. The constant stream of emails was at times overwhelming – it wasn’t just orders to read through, it was often desperate pleas from people living far away to get emergency food delivered to ageing relatives they couldn’t visit.

farm or by other organic growers. A different selection is available each week and every so often an unusual vegetable or an odd shaped parsnip pops up which we take joy at seeing posted on social media as the delivery hits the customer’s kitchen!

But, if box schemes aren’t your thing and you’d like to have more of a say in your shopping, we are also happy to take orders just emailed to us as a shopping list and we can deliver or arrange contactless collection from our car park if necessary.

To order a box scheme, either as a one-off or as part of our weekly or fortnightly scheme or indeed just to request a grocery delivery or contactless collection, you can contact us at kate@ tradingpostfarmshop.co.uk Our box scheme prices are: Veg Boxes £10, £16 and £22; Fruit Boxes £6, £12 and £18; Salad Boxes £6 and £12.

TRADING POST Ad_DH_aut18.pdf

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18/03/2021

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(£2 delivery charge – delivery available within five-mile radius of TA13 5JH)

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Delivery routes were organised into local areas day by day and suddenly everything just started slotting in to place. We slowly began to reopen the shop, one, two then three days a week, as we were able to balance the orders and walk-in customers. By July we had fully reopened whilst still fulfilling all orders for delivery and contactless collection – within the past year over 8000 orders have been processed in addition to our normal stream of customers through the shop.

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A year on we have a much better plan available for all customers; a seasonal selection of veg, fruit and salad, grown either on our on-site

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Toiletries & Home Corner

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The Old A303, Lopenhead TA13 5JH trading post AD.indd 1

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33

TRAVEL

GOING WILD AT WAKEHURST

By Tim Saunders, Travel Correspondent An hour-and-a-half from our Hampshire home is RHS Wakehurst in West Sussex. Having visited RHS Wisley we thought we knew what to expect; basically lots of inspiring formal gardens. Not so here. Wakehurst is 500 acres of wild botanic gardens, which is a lovely surprise. There are plants and trees from around the world. But probably the greatest aspect of a visit here is that you can relax. Yes, even with children.

We arrive at quarter past eleven having wrongly anticipated how long it would take us to travel the 65 miles. So although we have printed out our ticket for the 10.30am slot, I smile sheepishly and hope that will suffice to gain entry. It is. Social distancing is easy here and facemasks only need to be worn in the toilets (although one gent doesn’t bother) and the visitor centre. We have come prepared.

It is a hot day, 33 degrees Celsius to be precise, so sweat is already dripping down us. We head off in a straight line to the lakes and there are so many wonderful tall trees that we regularly find ourselves in welcome shade as we slowly stroll. It feels as if you are walking down a country lane because the paths are tarmac but there is no traffic to worry about, which is ideal.

So, while the masses are crammed onto the beaches, we are able to roam at leisure

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without a care. Along the way we marvel at the ever-changing landscape, uphill and down, and spot some wonderful reddybrown dragonflies that we have not seen elsewhere. Lots of them in fact. There are pleasant scents and aromas and it is a joy to the senses. This is what the holidays are about. You don’t need to jet off to some far flung destination, queuing in airport lounges and then suffering quarantine each way. Just get out and explore Britain.

We are so lucky to have such a place to visit comparatively close to home. We, well I should say Caroline really, does worry, in fact it’s her favourite pastime and her particular worry on this occasion is that because we have been to a number of gardens over these holidays that the little people might get a bit bored of them.

Thankfully she is proved wrong. Yes, they do begin to wilt like the finest of summer

blooms when they discover that every bench we come across is already taken.

But the great thing about these trips is that you never know what you will find. So as we mooch around the lakes admiring the views, in time we stumble upon a picnic area complete with benches in the shade that nobody else has found. Perfect and just in time for lunch. And as we sit, there is the welcome chirruping sound of crickets.

We don’t really walk that far today but in the sheer heat it’s quite an effort to do much walking, reminding Caroline and me of holidays in Italy and Bulgaria.

For more information, visit www.kew.org/ wakehurst.

Watch the videos at www.travelwriter.biz

TRAVEL

MAIN AGENT

FOR SUMMER SEACATIONS 2021 UK CRUISES

Plus more...

BOOK NOW

Phone lines open until 10pm

01935 428488

www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk

14-16 Middle Street Yeovil BA20 1LY

BOOKING SURGE FOR ‘SEACATIONS’

By Heather Muir, Manager – Miles Morgan Travel, Yeovil Following lockdown relaxations, some of the most glamorous cruise ships will be setting sail to exciting destinations around Britain from June this year. As more cruise operators announce their Round Britain itineraries, we have been inundated with enquiries and have brought staff back from furlough to help with demand.

Ranging from 3 to 14 nights, there will be a huge variety of cruises setting sail from ports all over the UK, including Southampton, and we are a main agent for them all!

They’ll be taking in beautiful scenic landscapes and exciting city destinations around the coasts of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, and many will be as close to all-inclusive as possible. There’s a wide range of prices too, bookable by just a deposit and many with flexible booking

conditions if you need to amend. Our cruise specialists have all the up-to-date information on dates, itineraries, prices and special offers so feel free to call or pop in and see us.

Among the operators that have already confirmed cruise schedules are P&O, Princess, Cunard, Saga, Celebrity, MSC and we are expecting many more to follow.

P&O’s new ship, Iona, will make its maiden voyage and its flagship Britannia will be among the fleet around Britain’s shores this summer. Princess Cruises are offering allinclusive cruises onboard both Regal and Sky Princess in balcony, deluxe cabins and suites. Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth will be offering twelve new voyages, exclusive to UK guests.

dock at any international ports. Saga cruises include a chauffeur service from home to the port, meaning your holiday starts the minute you close your front door.

MSC has brought Virtuosa’s inaugural season to the UK and she is offering 3, 4 and 7 night cruises from Southampton.

As the UK holiday market reaches its full capacity, with inflated prices due to the huge demand, taking a cruise is a viable option. Call in and see us today at 14-16 Middle Street or call us on 01935 428488 to hear more.

We look forward to seeing you for these and all your future holiday needs soon.

On some cruises, Saga will sail out of British waters to the Norwegian fjords but will not 35

PET HEALTH

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE ITCHY!

By Peter Luscombe BVSc GPCert(Derm) MRCVS Vets see itchy pets daily, but at this time of year more dogs and cats develop skin problems, and the ones that already have them get worse!

Itchy animals don’t just scratch: licking, rubbing and excessive rolling can all be signs of irritation.

Some animals may only focus on certain areas such as feet or ears and not appear generally itchy. Additionally, the skin has a relatively limited number of reactions to disease, so a multitude of different problems such as parasites, allergies and infections can cause itchiness.

This is why I became interested in dermatology and undertook further training over the last few years developing my skills and adding to my local experience, gaining my general practitioners and post-graduate certificates in small animal dermatology. Over the last 30 years I have seen many rare as well as common conditions and I still find the changing disease patterns in our area fascinating.

Top of the list will always be fleas, but other parasites can cause problems, for example, mange which appeared in our area in the early 1990s and harvest mites which seem to have a particular seasonality locally.

Allergic skin disease can relate to environmental factors, irritants, food and even medication.

Bacterial and fungal infections can be very itchy but are often secondary to other problems.

Finally, we need to keep in mind rare problems, such as, certain skin and other cancers, auto-

Working out why an animal is scratching is not always straightforward, a logical approach must be taken, and no assumptions made. A thorough examination of the whole animal is needed, not just the skin, to make sure no relevant clues are missed. With experience many signs or patterns of lesions can be recognised and give clues about the cause of the itch. However, these may not be conclusive and often need to be followed up by tests and laboratory examinations.

Fortunately, basic laboratory

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

36

immune problems where the body attacks its own skin and even exotic diseases in animals which have travelled abroad.

examinations are not expensive and with experience can be done in the practice. This information often avoids the need for more expensive specialist testing and quickly provide information that will help to target any treatment more effectively at a specific cause and ultimately save on the costs of unnecessary treatments.

Having said that, the number one cause of scratching at this time of year is fleas, either as the sole problem or exacerbating other skin diseases. As the season warms up the flea breeding

season accelerates, and a few fleas early in the year can lead to a major problem as the season progresses, which in turn will continue to cause more problems in the home over the winter months.

If you remember nothing else from this article, can I suggest you treat your animals effectively for fleas. This might save a visit to the vet and improve your pet’s quality of life dramatically.

Companions at Peace Pet Cremation Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners.

• Collection Service • Farewell Room • Out of Hours Service provided Located in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border

Contact us on: 07900 654 440 www.companionsatpeace.co.uk

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

CARE

THE FEMALE FUNERAL DIRECTOR

By Tracey Warren, Stoodley and Son

Being in the profession as a funeral director for over 26 years, I have seen many changes with regards to the personalisation of funerals and choices offered to families, but the biggest change has been the increase in the number of female funeral directors employed in the profession.

Charles Dickens famously wrote about the Victorian undertaker - Mr Mould has ‘a face in which a queer attempt at melancholy was at odds with a smirk of satisfaction’, or Mr Omer ‘a fat, short-winded, merry-looking, little old man in black, with rusty little bunches of ribbons at the knees of his breeches, black stockings, and a broad-brimmed hat’. Today’s society still tend to draw upon the notion of an old Victorian looking man, hunched over, rubbing his hands, speaking in hushed laboured tones and feigning sympathy.

At the start of the 1900s women were actively involved in both dealing with the dead and helping the bereaved. This task was usually performed by midwives, seeing life in and out. They assisted families with the solemn task of washing and dressing the deceased, and of course opening the windows to help the soul fly to the afterlife. However, before the Midwifery Act of 1902 there was no qualification to be a midwife and many were just ladies of the town or village with little or no medical training.

Take for example what happened in Yorkshire. Once a death occurred, a group of women within the town/village were tasked with laying out the deceased; that is washing the body, closing the mouth and eyes, and wrapping the body in a white sheet. The body was then either laid out in the bed or put into the coffin, if the coffin had been made (usually by the local joiner or cabinet maker).

Paying one respects was an integral part of early grief ritual and a woman would sit next to the deceased and lift the white face cloth so the visitor could view the body. Another woman would act as a bidder; she would knock on people’s doors inviting them to the funeral.

Other women would act as coffin bearers for relatives of the same sex or for a child; they very much played an active role.

and advertising heralded the arrival of ‘the female funeral director’, though the TV Soaps still tend to use the stereotypical male Victorian funeral director.

When I entered the business in 1995, I initially trained at Salisbury with two of the first qualified female funeral directors in the UK, Mary Case, and Sheila Dicks.

Mary was awarded an MBE for her services to the funeral industry.

And finally, I will relate to you a story of a funeral I conducted last year. A very elderly minister came over to see me at the start of a funeral, ‘Oh, a female funeral director, I haven’t seen one of your sort before. Do you want my honest opinion of you?’

‘Yes’ I replied, ‘well you’re a very competent funeral director but I don’t like your hat.’

Things started to change, as more and more furniture makers, joiners and builders decided to become dedicated ‘funeral homes’, the funeral profession started to evolve. It was usually the wife of the funeral director who would write letters, prepare invoices and if their husband was out, take messages on their return.

Their tasks were administrative in nature. However, more and more women started to get involved with the profession, either through marriage or family.

In the 1960s more women decided to enter the profession and take the new ‘Diploma in Funeral Directing’. Most of these pioneers were from nursing backgrounds and some were family members with their father or grandfather being the funeral director.

Towards the 1980s there came a surge of women actively pursuing a career within the funeral service.

The ratio of men to women taking the diploma in funeral directing increased and women started to become noticed. Press releases

To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

37

HEALTH & WELLBEING

BOUNDARIES - THE COURAGE TO LOVE OURSELVES

By Niki Cassar

In my work, I find that many of my clients are unaware of the importance of setting boundaries.

The word in itself can be misleading, as we’re not talking about erecting high fences, or publishing a list of rules, nor does it require you to keep yourself separate. Boundaries are about creating rules for yourself on the permissible ways for others to behave towards you, and your response when someone oversteps those limits. By creating healthy and necessary rules, you are prioritising your needs, both in personal and professional relationships. Without personal boundaries, you will frequently be disrespected by others who know intuitively that they can take advantage of you because of your inability to say no. This results in you feeling dissatisfied and resentful, because you know they’ve got what THEY want and not what YOU want (yet again).

We all have basic rights - the right to say no without feeling guilty; to make our own needs a priority; to be treated with respect. You probably know people whose boundaries you sense you cannot cross: they are confident and assertive in their negative response to some of your requests, and you know for sure that the matter is not up for further discussion. How do you feel about that? Do you respect them less for saying no, or more because they seem to know what they want? Perhaps you feel envious, wishing you could be more like them? Well guess what, you can!

Boundaries should be reassessed frequently, and can be flexible, but should never be removed, even ‘just this once’. Trust your gut instinct and if you feel uncomfortable with someone’s behaviour towards you, give yourself permission to say no or just walk away. As children, we are conditioned to not offend others and so many adults are afraid to defend their choices, thereby allowing others to walk all over them. But the truth is that you are

38

in control of your choices and your life, and by setting healthy boundaries, and giving yourself permission to stop peoplepleasing, you will benefit by having more time, more energy, and immensely gratifying feelings of self-esteem.

Start with small steps and say ‘no’ to someone, in a kind and firm way. You may not find it easy the first time, but stick to your guns and notice how empowered you feel, and notice also the glimmer of respect in the eyes of that person. Next time will be so much easier, and very soon it will become something you do easily and automatically.

If you need help in setting boundaries, or any other emotional issue, please call me on 07973 346747 or email me at mail@ nikicassar.com. Online sessions are my speciality!

HISTORY

WORDSEARCH

GRANNY’S BREAD CROCK

By Barbara Elsmore

I was looking through the beautifully presented book Dorset Barns by Jo Draper and David Bailey, published by Dovecote Press, when I came across a photograph of the Crossroads Pottery at Verwood with rows of pots lined up outside the barn. Some of the shapes looked very familiar to me and so I went straight out into the garden to take another look at my granny’s bread crock which has been used for plants for nearly fifty years.

It has withstood all manner of weather, unlike newer pots which have come and gone.

Whenever I look at it I remember how it used to stand on a chair in the larder at granny’s house in Nether Compton where it had been in continual use for very many years. Just how many years I began, through the discovery of this photograph, to perhaps get more of an idea about. From reading through Pottery by Penny Copland-Griffiths, another Dovecote Press publication, and by checking the website at http://heritage.verwood.org/pottery_ industry.htm, I discovered that the Crossroads Pottery was the last working pottery in the East Dorset pottery industry known collectively as

‘Verwood Pottery’ whose major production was of domestic earthenware.

Until the Crossroads Pottery closed its doors in 1952 the methods of production had not varied from Roman times, with all the processes being carried out with no mechanisation or electrification. The clay was always trodden by foot with the wheel turned by an assistant with a pole or handle and the kilns were wood fired. So granny’s bread crock is very likely to have been made originally in a pottery somewhere in the Verwood area, maybe even at the Crossroads Pottery itself. How can I be sure you may ask?

I will explain. The granny I knew was actually my grandfather’s second wife and she was a lovely lady who married when she was 50. His first wife and my father’s mother died when Dad was 13. My ‘real’ grandmother was the daughter of the wonderfully named Eliza Mathilda Lavender who arrived from London as the first certified schoolteacher at Verwood School in 1875.

Eliza entered into a large extended family when she married local farmer’s son Arthur Blandford in August 1878. My grandmother Mabel was born in 1882 and it is Mabel who, I believe, may have been the original owner of the bread crock as it might have been given as a wedding present by one of her many Blandford relatives when she married my grandfather in Christchurch priory in April 1908. I believe that a bread crock of this type would now be considered a museum piece and a dim view would be taken of using it for growing tulips in but to me it is a family heirloom with a story to tell.

WIN £10 in our WORDSEARCH

competition A LOVE AFFAIR WITH ITALY

Who isn’t a tiny bit in love with Italy? From Italian food to Italian wine, there is so much to recommend it. In terms of exploring Italy, I feel I have only scratched the surface and there is so much more to see. With the uncertainty around travelling this summer, I am not sure if I will get to visit this beautiful country this year.

I love Britain too and I expect I can find some Italian inspired cuisine closer to home that will give me a little flavour of what I may be missing in the towns and regions of this wonderful country. Italy is the inspiration for this month’s Wordsearch.

Just find the hidden Italian towns and regions 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 24 May. Good luck.

ANCONA APPENINES ARNO CALABRIA CORTINA ELBA GENOA LAZIO

LOMBARDY MARCHE MILAN MOLISE MOUNT ETNA NAPLES PADUA PARMA

PIAVE RIMINI ROME TIBER TURIN VENICE

Name:__________________________________________________________ Tel :_________________________Email:______________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________ 39 ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

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

39

HEALTH & WELLBEING

WHY WORK IN LEISURE?

By Samantha Welch, Centre Manager

Many people view working in a sports centre or a gym as a stepping stone to a ‘proper’ job BUT you can forge a fantastic career in leisure. There are many opportunities open to you; you just need to know where to look.

If you like working with people and enjoy an active lifestyle; have a passion for helping people and take pleasure in interacting with all walks of life, then why not consider a job in the leisure industry.

There are many advantages including shift work (the freedom to have mornings or afternoons off) and working with a young, friendly and passionate team. The chance to work in a relaxed, professional environment where you can pursue your passion for sports for free! There are always great opportunities to enhance your qualifications in a variety of fields – you just need to show you’re willing.

The careers paths are endless. If you have a passion for helping people and love exercise, begin your career as an apprentice fitness instructor. Work through the ranks becoming a fitness instructor and group exercise instructor, working towards becoming a personal trainer and then onto a strength and conditioning coach or specialise in rehabilitation or exercise referrals.

If you love working with children, consider becoming a holiday activity leader or swim assistant working on up to swim teacher or working through the coaching qualifications in your particular

sport. Alternatively move into sports development and develop your organisational and planning skills to run your own activities.

If you enjoy dealing with people, have a great sense of customer service and take pleasure from making everyone’s experience at your work place the best it can be then consider a move into management. You can hone your planning, personnel and diplomacy skills to further your event organising and problem solving.

Oxley Sports Centre is always looking for new recruits with great personalities, a fantastic work ethic and a great sense of humour.

To check us out, visit www.oxleysc.com or pop into the centre to see what we’re all about. We look forward to meeting you.

We’re back!

Swimming pool, Swim School and Fitness Suite now open.

osc_info@sherborne.com

www.oxleysc.com

Proud to Print The Conduit Magazine

Design • Print • Web • Marketing • Mailing info@remous.com 01963 250920 01963 250920

www.remous.com info@remous.com info@remous.com

www.remous.com www.remous.com

n View Business Remous Park, Print, Sheeplands Unit 4 Barton Lane, View Sherborne, Business Dorset Park, DT9 Sheeplands 4FWLane, Lane, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4FW Remous Print, Unit 4 Barton View Business Park, Sheeplands Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4FW

stered ham Bunter, in England: Alan Bunter, 1479229.

Keith Registered Sparks.

Registered Address:inNylands, in England: Charlton 1479229.

Horethorne, Registered Sherborne, Address: Dorset.

Nylands, Charlton Horethorne, Sherb am Bunter, Alan Bunter, Keith Sparks.

Registered England: 1479229.

Registered Address: Nylands, Charlton Horethorne, Sherborne, 40

SPORT

WHEATHILL GOLF CLUB WELCOMES EVERYONE Keep fit, energise, learn a new sport, enjoy vast open space, breathe fresh air, make new friends and celebrate summer! All at WHEATHILL GOLF CLUB Wheathill is an 18-hole parkland course comprising 5607 yards of gently undulating fairways along the River Cary. It is a ‘gem’ set in beautiful Somerset countryside, just off the B3153 between Lyford-onFosse and Castle Cary. The course has matured majestically over the years with tree plantations now reaching their peak amongst stunning older trees. It may not be the longest or toughest of courses but Wheathill, with its unique hazards, offers a real challenge to golfers of all abilities.

With three PGA professionals, the club has set itself up as a venue that can encourage you to learn, practise and enjoy playing golf, and keep fit! As well as the main 18-hole course, the club boasts an 8-hole Academy Course and large driving range.

All this is immaculately maintained by new head greenkeeper, Lewis Chainey, and team.

Green fees available daily for 18 holes (Pay & Play), £23 adults, £15 juniors.

(Currently, visitors are asked to ring the Pro Shop on the day they wish to play for any space as existing members may pre-book times in advance).

The fully stocked Pro Shop sells:

Academy Course day tickets are £7 adults, £5 children and if you simply want to practise your drive, take a bucket of balls (approx 40) at just £4 down to the driving range and bash away!

• Four individual lessons for price of three = £60

Opened in 1993, initially for ‘Pay & Play’, there was a quick demand for membership as well, and today both options are still available. Wheathill is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and affordable fees: Membership (from £300) so you can obtain a handicap, play in competitions and improve your game while meeting new friends and enjoying a healthy walk!

Individual and group lessons are available most days throughout the summer including lessons for juniors from five years old upwards! (whole or half day). Wheathill is an accredited England Safegolf Golf facility.

Coaching is a big part of the club’s service. SkyTrack Launch Monitor, playing lessons on the course and club fitting appointments are just a few of the offerings. There are great company demonstration days throughout the season so you can ‘try before you buy’ the latest equipment. Second-hand clubs are traded in and also sold.

Photo Credit: © all images courtesy of www.suesnooksphotography.co.uk

• Ping, Taylormade, Callaway, Powakaddy, Under Armour, Footjoy • Lesson vouchers for all standards from £15 p.p.

The Clubhouse is due to open on 19 April (outside seating only 9am-5pm) and 17 May (inside and outside seating) according to government rules. The patio now boasts a roof cover to enable social distancing and appreciation of the wonderful views across the parkland course, whatever the weather! Everyone is welcome (i.e. non golf players) for delicious, affordable food and drinks, including a breakfast menu.

When all restrictions have been lifted, the clubhouse will once again be available to hire year-round for social and business meetings. The Jubilee room is perfect for private functions for up to 30 people seated. The main clubhouse and bar can accommodate up to 70 people for social occasions.

For further details, phone 01963 240667. www.wheathillgolf.co.uk.

41

WALKING

WOODLAND WONDERS

By Rachel Woods

Do you have a fond recollection of tree climbing in your youth?

Making dens and collecting pine cones?

Or are forests a dark and foreboding place from scary movies? I pondered this while wandering a couple of weeks ago, when it was quiet and misty; the atmosphere ethereal and eerie.

I do love a wood – each one seems to have its own character and personality so I thought I would outline some of my favourite local woodlands.

I’ll start at Hadden Woods, Castle Cary. Lovingly planted by the Woodland Trust, it’s very much the baby of the bunch. The trees here are still finding their place amongst their equally juvenile kin. A walk here gifts you with a different experience, it isn’t old enough yet to feel imposing or eerie.

The trust has created a lake, various open areas and the oddest bee hive I’ve ever come across. An eclectic planting of native species hints at a woodland with great promise.

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Moving on to Stourhead, which I mentioned last month. I like trying to get myself lost here.

The paths and regimented ranks of great pines do seem to duplicate, so it’s easy to get turned around if you don’t follow the obvious routes. I see this forest as a sentinel in the area. Large, established and majestic, not so much of the ancient woodland remains, although there’s plenty to catch glimpses of and these pines look like they are guarding the landscape.

When I think of Nine Springs, or Yeovil Country Park, I feel like going home. This is a place of many childhood adventures.

Easily accessible from the town centre, family-friendly, it’s an interesting mix of old woodland and water features. I never did find all nine springs but that never seemed to matter, the fun was in the exploring. To me it feels like visiting relatives and playing with my cousins. It holds a feeling of the familiar and yet there is an air of caution while I work out how we have both grown and changed.

Not so much woodland, but worth a mention is the labyrinth of sunken paths around Nether Compton. I recall walking these during the autumn, wading through seriously boggy ground and marvelling at large trees.

Sunken paths expose tree roots and standing a few feet below what I see as ‘ground level’ is quite awe-inspiring. If you search long enough there’s a potato cave to be found. No joke, allegedly the tubers were stored here. The Sherborne estate was possibly the first place in the UK to grow them.

This might require some further research to back up, but as a story I love it.

Lastly I’ll head home to Wincanton. As you travel from here toward Castle Cary you can visit the landscaped gardens of The Newt in Somerset. There’s a charge to get in but you do get a year’s pass and, for me, I

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would pay it just to access the woodland and deer park. A mixed native woodland that’s near impossible to get lost in.

It’s well-tended and gifts large open vistas with far reaching views across the soft quilting of comfortingly familiar Somerset farmland.

This isn’t a plug for The Newt (I’m certainly not on commission!), but I have to give credit where it’s due and I’m relieved that this woodland has been protected and made accessible.

These are my top five. What’s your favourite woodland to explore? Let me know at rachel@coachinnature.co.uk. I’d love to explore further and it may feature in a future edition.

Until then happy walking

@conduitmag

Wills

FEBRUARY DEADLINES

of Sherborne

PlumbinG &Heating ltD Local & Reliable Plumber Gas safe registered, fully insured New Build, Renovations, Gas boiler installations Bathroom installations, LPG Vented and Unvented Cyclinder Installation Free quotes – competitive prices Email: wills.plumbing@hotmail.co.uk Telephone Malcolm: 07885 420609

WANTED

Dry Stone Walling and Paving

Dave buys all types of tools.

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

Tel: 01935 428975

Patrick Houchen - DSWA member

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.

Three tier glass TV table £20 Large set of binoculars in carrying case £20 Tel: 01963 23333 (Bishops Caundle)

01963 371123 Professional & reliable service

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH Any Condition. SOS to all air rifles and pistols any maker or model.

We collect in any area. Top prices paid in cash

07970 742471

Heavy duty Kirby vacuum cleaner, four spare bags, carpet shampooer, 1 yr transferrable service warranty £250 Mac Allister electric rotary lawn mower (with cable), with grass collection bag. Please note there is a damaged lever, but it is still in working order £15 Brand new electric floor polisher £30 Mob: 07802 500518 (Sherborne)

IAN CROSSLAND

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Tel: 01935 411813 Mob: 07811 070 498

• Interior and exterior decorating

• Carpentry and small cabinet work • Restoration of timber windows

• Making/restoring leaded windows • Hanging doors

• Fitting fences and gates • Exterior lime mortaring

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

01935 808052

Domestic and contract flooring specialists 34 Princes Street, Yeovil BA20 1EQ

Tel: 01935 478100

walterwallyeovil@hotmail.co.uk To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

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Providing Dental Care for the Yeovil area since 1864

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Princes Street Dental Practice are an independent private practice where you will see the same dentist at each visit. We keep up to date with, and like to invest in, new technology. We have invested in a CEREC technology which allows us to fit crowns and bridges in just one visit no impressions!

We are proud to be members of the Denplan Excel scheme.

Please feel free to ring and ask any questions, or come in and meet our lovely staff.

45 Princes St, Yeovil BA20 1EG

01935 475962 www.princesstreetdental.co.uk