The Conduit Magazine - March 2022

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

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WHY DORSET’S

MINTERNE HOUSE IS THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE!

Issue 252 March 2022

SEE PAGE 14 FOR MORE INFO

INSIDE THIS MONTH

What makes Sherborne special? | Spicy pie recipe | Simple steps to wellbeing Singing is good for you | Citrus zing for gin!

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

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11/11/2020 15:04

From the Editor The Conduit magazine started life in Sherborne just over 20 years ago and although the magazine has now extended its reach right across South Somerset, we still have a soft spot for the town.

This month we take a look at what makes Sherborne a special place to visit and with the help of the Sherborne Chamber have reached out to businesses across the town to join us in appreciating Sherborne. Just down the road from Sherborne lies Minterne House and Gardens which has to be one of the loveliest places to tie the knot for future brides and grooms – see the special feature on p14 about this super venue. If you are in search of inspiration on what to cook this evening, go to one of our three recipes featured this month; turn to the food section and you will find a spicy pie courtesy of The Alternative Indian; delicious cheddar, pickled walnut and pennywort salad from Mark Hix and some healthy waffles from Slimming World. There are also more tales from the Castle Cary vintner and a citrus twist for Viper Gin. Enjoy!

Contents

EDITOR & ADVERTISING Jane Adkins

ASSISTANT EDITOR Julie Locke

APRIL DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 11 MARCH Advertisements: MONDAY, 14 MARCH

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

SHERBORNE SPECIAL p12-13

Visiting Sherborne

GARDENING p15-17

Jubilee inspiration and seed planting

ARTS

p23-30 Exhibitions, Music & Movies

FOOD & DRINK p33-36

Wine, gin and recipes

HEALTH & WELLBEING p39-42 What’s good for the soul!

BUSINESS, FINANCE &LEGAL p18-22 Legal, finance and business advice

NATURE SPOT p43

Cranes on the Levels

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 SHERBORNE School Readers Required! The Schoolreaders charity provides volunteers to listen to children read in primary schools, at no cost to the school. No experience needed, just a good command of the English language and a spare hour or two a week in term time. Illiteracy affects all areas of life! If willing to help, please complete the online application at www.schoolreaders.org or call the Schoolreaders team on 01234 924111.

YEOVIL St Margaret’s Hospice ‘A Mile a Day’ Challenge Create healthier habits in 2022, all whilst raising money for St Margaret’s Hospice Care. The challenge is to complete ‘A Mile a Day’ throughout 2022 – walk, run, cycle, swim or dance – it really doesn’t matter!

Willing to go the extra mile for St Margaret’s Hospice and help support the hundreds of patients who will benefit from breathlessness management treatment? For more information and to register, visit www. st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/amile-a-day.

Yeovil Hospital Charity Appeal In March 2019, Yeovil Hospital Charity launched an appeal to raise the funds to build a £2m dedicated Breast Cancer Unit in YDH. Because of delays caused by Covid and the price increase of materials, the cost has now risen to £2.5m. So far £2,038.502 has been raised, of which £65,000 has come from the sale of donations of unwanted jewellery. The building work will only start when enough money has been raised. The charity is therefore asking again for any unwanted/broken watches and jewellery. To donate, please call Maggie (Breast Cancer Appeal Volunteer) on 01963 250108. For more information, visit www.yeovilhospital.co.uk/ get-involved/support-us-yeovilhospital-charity/breast-cancerunit-appeal.

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Coffee Morning COMPTON DUNDON Every first Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at Compton Dundon Meadway Hall Meeting Room, there is a coffee morning.

Coffee, tea, cakes and chat for everyone!

QUEEN CAMEL Every second Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at the Memorial Hall is the Village Cafe. Enjoy good coffee, tea and cake. Book and jigsaw exchange. It’s an opportunity to meet friends and make new ones.

SHERBORNE Every Thursday from 10.00am to 11.30am at Cheap Street Church Hall is Coffee Time. Everyone welcome.

SOUTH PETHERTON Every last Wednesday 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. A ‘Support the Hall’ event.

WEST CAMEL Every Thursday from 9.15am to 11.30am at The Davis Hall, there is a coffee morning. There will be the usual tea, coffee and cake. Bread and cakes from the village bakery are on sale, also charity cards and sometimes plants and local produce, plus post office facilities. Free entry.

WINCANTON On Saturday 12 March from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at St Peter and St Paul Parish Church, there is a coffee morning. Cakes, books and raffle. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 01963 824503.

On Saturday 19 March from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Wincanton Memorial Hall is the Wincanton & District Gardeners Association’s coffee morning. Cakes, stall and raffle.

Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 01963 33160.

Contact: Julie Locke

/theconduitmagazine

E: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk

@conduitmag

YEOVIL Every Thursday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Yeovil Baptist Church, opposite the library, there is a coffee morning. At ‘Jacob’s Well’, hot and cold drinks are served, along with a delicious array of home-made cakes, scones and other goodies. Covid secure premises plus an outdoor seating area. Entry is free, and a warm welcome guaranteed!

Fair SHEPTON MALLET From Friday 11 to Sunday 13 March at The Royal Bath & West Showground, there is an antiques and collectors fair.

Open: Friday 12.00 noon to 5.00pm, Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm, and Sunday 10.00am to 4.00pm. Tickets: Friday £10, Saturday £5, Sunday £5, (a Friday ticket allows entry for Saturday and Sunday.) For more information, visit www.iacf.co.uk.

WELLS On Sunday 20 March from 10.00am to 4.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, the hugely popular Rare Plant Fair returns with a wonderful range of rare and unusual plants from a fantastic range of expert nurseries. The admission fee for the fair is a combined package and includes access to the fair and gardens. Tickets £8, under 16s free. For more information, phone 01749 988111 or visit www.bishopspalace.org.uk.

Fiver Fest From Saturday 12 to Saturday 26 March in Sherborne, it’s the Totally Locally Fiver Fest – loads of amazing £5 special offers from the town’s independent shops and businesses. Fiver Fest is a chance for independent businesses to use their collective power to encourage people back to town centres, to thank customers who supported them during the recent testing times and to prove once again, that the small guys can compete

with the online giants and the supermarkets.

Food CREWKERNE Every Friday at 12.30pm at the Henhayes Centre, it is the Chef’s Special Roast Lunch. Fruit juice on arrival, roast lunch followed by dessert, with tea or coffee to finish. Members £9.50, nonmembers £11. Lunch served at 12.30pm. Booking essential by 10.30am. To book, phone 01460 74340.

Every third Saturday from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, the yummy Henhayes Big Breakfast is served! Last orders at 11.30am.

Breakfasts start from £5. Full breakfast menu and vegetarian options are available, with vegan options on request. The big breakfast coincides with the table-top sale.

Every weekday (except Thursdays) at 12.30pm at the Henhayes Centre, a two-course lunch is served. Members £7.50.

Booking essential by 10.30am on the day. Lunch served from 12.30pm. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org.

ILMINSTER Annie’s Cakery Bakery at the Gallery Café offers full breakfasts, light lunches, teas, coffee, wonderful scones and home-made cakes.

Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 2.30pm. For further information or to book a table, call 07872 493300.

LOPENHEAD The Trading Post Farm Shop is a wholefoods market, a greengrocer’s, a deli and a treasure trove, all rolled into one! With its selection of farm-grown organic vegetables, locally sourced food, drink and unusual locally crafted gifts, the farm shop supports over 150 local suppliers providing the best produce that the West Country has to offer. Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6.00pm and Sunday 10.00am to

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.

4.00pm. For more information, visit www.tradingpostfarmshop. co.uk.

SANDFORD ORCAS Every Wednesday to Friday from 12.00 noon at The Mitre Inn, there is a Senior Citizens twocourse lunch for £12.95. Contact Allen or Cheryl on 01963 220271. www.mitreinn.co.uk.

Every Sunday from 12.00 noon at The Mitre Inn, Sunday roast is served - there are always three choices of meat along with a vegetarian and fish option.

Adult £11.95, OAP £10.75, child £8.25. Contact Allen or Cheryl on 01963 220271. www. mitreinn.co.uk.

SHERBORNE On Sunday 27 March from 10.00am to 3.00pm at The Cross Keys, treat Mum to a special Mother’s Day lunch – a two- or threecourse Sunday lunch menu, with one glass of fizz per mum to say thanks for being amazing! A special kids’ menu is also available. To book a table, call 01935 508130, email info@thecrosskeyssherborne. com or book online at www. thecrosskeyssherborne.com.

On Wednesday 30 March from 5.30pm at The Cross Keys, Supper Club is back for 2022 starting with Lebanese food featuring guest chef, Nayla. Set menu £60pp, £15 (non-refundable) deposit at time of booking. To book a table, call 01935 508130, email info@thecrosskeyssherborne. com or book online at www. thecrosskeyssherborne.com.

YEOVIL On Thursday 3 March at 7.00pm at The Emporium, there’s an evening with Jorden Lindsay. Performing a mix of popular covers and his own originals, Jorden puts

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

on a positively toe-tapping evening of music, alongside The Emporium Cafe’s signature music night menu and licensed bar. Tickets £8. Licensed bar and supper menu (not included in ticket price). To book, call 01935 411378, email info@theemporiumyeovil. co.uk or book online at www. theemporiumyeovil.co.uk.

On Thursday 24 March at 7.00pm at The Emporium, there’s a Secret Acoustic Folk Supper with an incredible line-up arranged by Bearcat Collective. Fresh, exciting menus (see website for details), licensed bar and friendly service in a relaxed and stylish cafe. Tickets £8 (bar and food not included in ticket price).

To book, call 01935 411378, email info@theemporiumyeovil. co.uk or book online at www. theemporiumyeovil.co.uk.

Market BRADFORD ABBAS Every Tuesday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at the Rose and Crown car park. Local suppliers including meat, veg, bakery, florist and other stalls.

CASTLE CARY Every Tuesday from 8.30am to 2.00pm at the Market House is a weekly openair market. Food stalls: West Country sourced fish, extensive range of cheeses, greengrocery and eggs, artisan bread, homemade preserves, home-made pies and pasties, cakes, freshlycooked 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 stalls, offering bread and baked goods, dairy and eggs, drinks, fish, fruit, vegetables, meat, as well

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)

as preserves and honey. For more information, visit www. somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk.

DRAYTON Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Drayton Village Hall is the monthly market.

Produce includes bread, vegetables, meats, butter, cheese, cakes, preserves, honey, desserts, savouries and plants.

Refreshments available. Free parking.

EAST COKER Every Friday from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at the Recreation Ground. Local suppliers including meat, veg and bakery.

ILMINSTER Every Thursday from 8.00am to 5.00pm at the Market House is the Ilminster Town Market. There are a variety of stalls, including a barber. Regular traders sell fruit and veg, bread, cakes, fish, preserves, olives and nuts, cheese, decorative items for the home and plants. For more information, contact Ilminster Town Council on 01460 52149.

LEIGH Every Wednesday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at Leigh Village Hall car park. Local suppliers.

MARTOCK On Saturday 12 March from 10.00am to 1.00pm at the Moorland’s Shopping Precinct is Martock Farmers’ Market, with stalls selling vegetables, cheese, coffee, chicken, beef, cordials, jams, bread, savouries and plants. Any enquiries, please call Fergus on 01935 822202.

MILBORNE PORT Every Saturday from 10.00am to 1.00pm at The Square. Local suppliers including meat, veg, bakery, florist and other stalls.

ODCOMBE Every Friday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at Odcombe Village Hall car park. Local suppliers including meat, veg and bakery.

SHEPTON MALLET Every Friday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at the Market Place is Shepton Mallet market. This historic market offers a wide range of fresh local produce, such as fruit, veg, bread, cheese, seafood, and cider. For more information, visit the market’s Facebook page or call 07912 769731.

SHERBORNE Every third Friday from 9.00am to 1.00pm

WHAT’S ON

at Cheap Street, there is a Dorset Farmers’ Market. Come and support local Dorset traders with a gorgeous selection of outdoor stalls. For more information, visit www.visitdorset.com/food-and-drink/ farmers-markets.

SOMERTON Every Saturday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon at The Unicorn Hotel skittle alley is the Wessex Country Market offering a wide variety of artisan produce. Home-made baked goods using locally sourced ingredients, jams, marmalades, chutney and pickle – all unique to this market. Locally sourced butter, cheese, meat and fresh vegetables in season. For more information, visit Scrumerton Facebook page or call 01458 273926.

WEST COKER Every Thursday from 10.00am to 11.00am behind Saunders Butchers. Local suppliers.

Sale CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, there is a fundraising table-top sale/craft fair. £5 per table. Set up from 9.00am. To book a table, email office@ henhayescentre.org. The sale coincides with the Henhayes Big Breakfast!

Social ASHILL Every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Ashill Village Hall, there is Scottish country dancing with a fully qualified teacher. Only £3.00 per session. It’s a great evening, so come along for fun, fitness and friendship. All welcome. For more information, email Anita Wilson at anitaandjim22@gmail. com.

CASTLE CARY On Saturday 19 March at 7.00pm at Caryford Hall, there is an 80s/90s disco with a 30-minute jive lesson to start proceedings. Tickets £10 from www.caryfordhall.co.uk.

Every first Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at The Shambles, Market House, is the Castle Cary Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid

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

5

WHAT’S ON

carers. Informal chat around a large table, with the chance to ask for private space for peer support. Professional and escapist speakers. For more information, call Florence Mills on 01963 359081 or email fliss1938@icloud.com.

CREWKERNE On Tuesday 1 March from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a two-course set lunch and live entertainment for the over 55s. The lunchtime entertainment is provided

by Ian Uren singing hits from 1940 to the present day. £12.50 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org.

On Tuesday 8 March from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a two-course set lunch and live entertainment for the over 55s.

The lunchtime entertainment is provided by Jan McNeill Sings Broadway, performing an array of hits from musicals. £12.50 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org.

On Tuesday 15 March from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a two-course set lunch and live entertainment for the over 55s. £12.50 per person. The lunchtime entertainment is provided by The Checkmates, performing a range of tunes from the 50s, 60s and 70s. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org.

On Tuesday 22 March from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a two-course set lunch and live entertainment for the over 55s. £12.50 per person. The lunchtime entertainment is provided by Mike Wiles, performing a mix of hits from the past to modern day. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org.

On Tuesday 29 March from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a two-course set lunch and live entertainment for the over 55s. £12.50 per person. The lunchtime entertainment is provided by Peter Burns, singing crisp acoustic versions of hits from the 60s and 70s. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org.

6

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.

Every Monday from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Monday Memory Group for the over 55s who suffer from dementia or memory problems. The group is a happy, social session for up to fifteen people, providing those attending with company, comfort, and stimulation, while providing their family members and carers some often much needed respite. Sessions start from £6.50 per person with the option to add drinks and a twocourse lunch at an additional cost. To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org.

Every Tuesday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, come along to the Henhayes Computer Group for the over 55s. Get help with computers, tablets, and smart phones in a welcoming and social environment. £3.50 per session, includes tea/coffee and a biscuit. To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org.

Every Tuesday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Henhayes Knitters session for the over 55s.

Enjoy a knit and natter session, while raising funds for the Henhayes Centre. All abilities are welcome. To book, email office@henhayescentre.org.

Every first Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre is the Crewkerne Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Informal chat in a private room. Regular speakers.

For more information, email edwardcharnick@btinternet. com.

Every Friday from 11.00am at the Henhayes Centre is the new Meet, Greet and Eat group for the over 55s. This consists of many smaller clubs, such as, the chess, bridge, scrabble, craft and book clubs, meeting each week for companionship and camaraderie, followed by a special roast lunch. £11 (members £9.50), includes club of choice and lunch. Tea/coffee and a biscuit on arrival. Twocourse roast lunch, served at 1.00pm, followed by tea/coffee and a chocolate. (Lunch only can also be booked.) To book, email office@henhayescentre.org.

ILMINSTER Every third Thursday from 1.00pm to 2.30pm at Monks Yard, Horton Cross, is the Ilminster Carers

Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Chat and offer peer support to each person’s needs. Professional and relaxation speakers. Lift to upstairs room. Refreshments from Monks Yard. For more information, contact Alison Birket on 01935 427825/07774 231996 or email a.birket@ btinternet.com.

Every second Friday from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre is the Readers Group Monthly Book Club.

An informal and friendly book group that meets to chat and share ideas about the latest ‘read’. All welcome. For more information, email jan. hopwood@tiscali.co.uk.

MARTOCK Every first Thursday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Christian Fellowship Church is the Martock Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers.

Parking available at The George Hotel. For more information, email fliss1938@icloud.com.

SHERBORNE Every Monday from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at Sherborne Library, there is a calm and relaxed shared reading session entitled ‘Feel Better with a Book’. Come along to read with others and have group discussions. Free event. Just turn up!

Every second Tuesday from 11.30am to 1.30pm at Sherborne Library, there are ‘Family and Local History’ sessions with the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society.

Share stories and get help with family research – all welcome.

For more information, call 01935 812683.

Every Thursday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Sherborne Library, there are free one-toone sessions ‘Get Online with a Digital Champion’. Book in to get help using a computer or personal device. Booking is essential. To book, call the library directly on 01935 812683.

Every second and fourth Friday from 11.00am to 12.00 noon at Sherborne Library, there is a book discussion session ‘Book Talk’ for ages 18-25. Free and no need for people to book. For more information, call the library on 01935 812683.

ArtsLink Fizz! For information about the Parkinson’s Dance, Art

for Memory and Art for Parents groups/classes, contact Kate at kate@dorchesterarts.org.uk.

SOUTH PETHERTON Every Monday at 7.30pm at The David Hall, The Stanchester Quire has its weekly meetings. Stanchester is a community quire, led by musical director Eddie Upton.

There are no auditions and the ability to read music is not essential as everything is learnt by ear. Everyone is very welcome. The first two weeks are free for newcomers, so why not come and give it a try?

Singing is good for the soul! For more information, email Bonnie at stanchesterquire1@gmail.com or phone Phil on 07778 119663.

STALBRIDGE Every last Monday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Stalbridge Village Hall is the Stalbridge Cancer & Recovery Support group (SCARS) monthly meeting. Friendship, information and support in a caring and confidential environment for cancer sufferers and survivors, their families and friends. There is always a warm, friendly welcome and a cuppa, plus a chance to chat. For more information, call 07961 027089, email contact.scars@gmail.com or visit www.scarscancersupport. co.uk.

WINCANTON Every second Monday from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at the Balsam Centre is the Wincanton and Bruton Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Informal chat in a light airy room. Share laughs, ideas and experiences in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Free parking. For more information, contact Cath on 07951 944420 or at cath. holloway@sparksomerset.org.uk.

YEOVIL Every second Tuesday from 11.00am to 12.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue is the Yeovil Carers Support Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Informal chat in a light airy room. Share laughs, ideas and experiences in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.

New exercise and activity sessions provided by Freedom Leisure (01935 314652) will run alongside the carers group, so carers can attend the group meeting whilst their ‘cared for’ enjoy an enriching and social event at the same time. Free parking. For more information, contact jacky.reed@talktalk.net or Cath on 07951 944420.

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.

Every Thursday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Vicarage Street Methodist Church, there is a meeting of the Yeovil Lipreading and Managing Hearing Loss group. The classes will encourage self-management, support independence, and encourage a positive approach to hearing loss with others experiencing the same difficulties making much needed social contact. For more information, contact Tina.Hunt@ deafplus.org or 01225 446555, email carinya.ecoker@gmail. com or use Facebook private messenger.

Every Friday at 1.00pm at The Gateway, Yeovil Community Church, there is a Yeovil Good Afternoon Choir session with conductor Chris Grabham. No auditions. No charge for the first rehearsal. The choir will enjoy all sorts of music – from folk songs to choral favourites. Sing for fun – everyone welcome. For more information, visit www. goodafternoonchoir.org or call 01761 472468.

Sport CREWKERNE Every Monday from 2.30pm to 3.30pm at the Henhayes Centre is Pilates for the over 55s. Suitable for all abilities. To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org.

Every Monday and Thursday from 9.30am to 10.30am at the Henhayes Centre is Physio Fit for the over 55s. A chair-based exercise/physio for all abilities. aimed at those suffering with mobility issues or recovering from health problems. £4 (members £3). To book, email office@henhayescentre.org.

Every Tuesday from 2.30pm to 4.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there are Tai Chi sessions. This is gentle but potent exercise with a calm mind – relax, breathe and move. Open to all ages and abilities, including complete beginners. £7 per session. To book, email blftcsomerset@ icloud.com.

Every Thursday at the Henhayes Centre, there are two yoga classes for the over 55s. From 9.15am to 10.30am is Gentle Yoga, suitable for beginners or those wishing to go at a slower pace. From

10.45am to 12.00 noon is Mixed Ability, a friendly and relaxed class, suitable for all, with or without previous experience. £7.50 (members £5.50). To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org.

Every Friday from 9.30am to 10.30am at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Keep Fit class for the over 55s. A weekly, fun workout session to get the blood pumping and body moving! £4.50 (members £3.50). To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org.

Talk CASTLE CARY On Tuesday 8 March at 7.00pm at The Market House, Café Scientifique Somerset’s talk is ‘Managing Biodiversity in an Industrial Quarry Setting’. The quarrying industry has shaped lives and landscapes in the Mendips over many decades but how has this affected habitats, and biodiversity in the region? Dr Stephanie Greshon, senior lecturer in Conservation Biology at Bath Spa University, discusses the impact the industry has on protected species and how quarry companies can incorporate biodiversity gain into the restoration of these sites. Doors open 6.30pm.

For more information, contact Colleen Bower on 07375 890751 or email tcolleenbower@gmail.com.

HENSTRIDGE On Tuesday 1 March at 2.50pm at Henstridge Village Hall, Blackmore Vale u3a is holding its Annual General Meeting followed by a talk. Nick Ricketts, who had nearly 40 years working in the Met Office, will talk about ‘Climate Change’.

What causes global warming and what might be done about it? Come along to find out and pose questions. Doors open 2.15pm. Talk 3.00pm. Members £1.50, visitors £2.50, includes refreshments. For more information about Blackmore Vale u3a, call 01936 362107 or visit www. u3a.org.uk.

New members are welcome to the Martock & District u3a monthly meetings and groups.

For information on the many hobby, interests and learning groups, contact Mary Marshall at martocku3agroupssec1@ gmail.com. For membership, contact Susie Stakes at martocku3amembership@gmail. com or on 01460 240788. www. u3a.org.uk.

SHERBORNE On Friday 11 March at 7.30pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, there is a talk by Jeremy Barker, Sir James Thornhill researcher and enthusiast and Friend of Sherborne House. Jeremy will talk about ‘Sir James Thornhill, Sherborne House and The Folke Altarpiece’. Doors open 7.00pm.

Tickets £10 to include glass of wine and light refreshments. For more information, call 01935 816764 or 01963 23436. Raising funds for redecoration of Folke Church.

On Friday 25 March from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at Sherborne Library, there is a talk ‘Travels in the East’ by Veena Schlegel.

Join Veena as she tells of her extensive travels and shows her beautiful photos. Free event.

Booking is essential – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

On Wednesday 30 March at 7.00pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, Tristan Gooley will be speaking to the Sherborne Literary Society about his latest book, The Secret World of Weather. Tristan, the Natural Navigator, will be in conversation with Brian Bleese, CEO of the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Tickets £9 members, £10 non-members, available via the Sherborne Literary Society website or Winstone’s

WHAT’S ON

Books, Sherborne. www. sherborneliterarysociety.com.

Every Thursday during term time from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Sherborne Library, there is ‘The Scribes Writing Group’.

Come along to share personal work, discuss how to improve and receive inspiration and ideas from others. For more information, call 01935 812683.

WINCANTON On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at Wincanton Memorial Hall, Wincanton & District Gardeners Association is hosting a talk entitled ‘Travels in India’ by Ian Williamson.

Refreshments and raffle.

Everyone is welcome. Members free, non-members £1. Why not join as a member? For more information, call 01963 33160.

YEOVIL On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at Holy Trinity Church, Yeovil Archaeological and Local History Society has a talk about ‘The Portable Antiquities Scheme in Somerset: Recent finds from Yeovil and its environs’. Speaker: Maria Kneafsey, Finds Liaison Officer, Somerset. Doors open 7.15pm. Members free, nonmembers £2 at the door. For more information, call 01935 477174. www.yalhs.org.uk, www. facebook.com/yalhs.

On Saturday 19 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, the talk ‘We Are Nature’ by Ray Mears is an invitation to reconnect with the natural world. In this fascinating, inspirational, and educational talk, Ray will demonstrate and explain techniques that will help improve the senses and highlight the problems nature faces today. It is time to cease being frustrated and act now to prevent crimes against nature

MARTOCK On Wednesday 9 March at 2.30pm at Martock Parish Hall, John Craig, a firefighter for 36 years, will give a talk ‘Going to Blazes’ about sound safety advice and current practices in the fire services.

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

7

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

and the environment. Come and celebrate the importance of the wilderness and green spaces. Tickets £26, under 16s £18.50, family ticket available. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil.co.uk.

Walk EAST LAMBROOK Until Sunday 27 February from 10.00am at East Lambrook Manor Gardens is the fourth fabulous Festival of Snowdrops. Enjoy a stroll through a beautiful winter snowdrop garden and view the extensive collection of unusual snowdrop varieties, snowdrop displays and snowdrop sculptures. Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Garden entry £6.50, over 65s £6.00, under 16s free, RHS members have free entry on Wednesdays. No charge if just visiting the nursery. Walk in or book online at www. eastlambrook.com.

MARTOCK Every second Tuesday at 10.30am at the Stoke Road Rec, there is a wellbeing walk. These shorter, starter health walks are planned to complement the existing longer health walks (third Friday of the month). To book a place, call 07946 121612 or email caroline.bennett@ martock-pc.gov.uk.

Every third Friday at 10.30am at Martock Precinct is the start of the Martock Health Walk. This is a friendly walk lasting about 60 mins led by trained volunteers at a pace suitable to the group. The group follows current government guidelines. To book a place, call 07946 121612 or email caroline. bennett@martock-pc.gov.uk.

MINTERNE MAGNA Until Monday 28 February at Minterne Gardens, take a stroll around the impressive display of snowdrops.

The arrival of snowdrops heralds spring, and everyone is very happy to see these cheerful flowers appearing. Open: 10.00am

REMOVALS & CLEARANCES

Contact us for your free, no obligation quote; Phone: 01935 509057 Freephone: 0800 2425012 Mobile: 07853 275379 Email: enquiries@back2market.com 8

to 6.00pm (last entry at 5.30pm). Entrance: 2-for-the-price-of-1 (£6) while snowdrops last. Season tickets available: family £30, single £20. For more information, call 01300 341370 or email enquiries@minterne.co.uk.

WELLS Until Sunday 27 February from 10.00am to 4.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, the popular ‘Snowdrop Celebrations’ return to Wells on each consecutive weekend.

Collect a printed Snowdrop Walk as a guide around the various displays. There will be artisan craft stalls and children’s activities.

Little ones can also pick up a children’s trail from the Palace Ticket Office with the reward of a small prize upon completion.

Entry is included with any standard admission. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

Until Sunday 27 February from 10.00am to 4.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, there is a Spring Time Scavenger Hunt! The gardens are beginning to wake up following their long winter hibernation. Come and

FRI, SAT

& SUN

Antiques&CollectorsFair

Friday 11 to Sunday 13 March Fri 12noon - 5pm £10 (Fri ticket allows entry Sat & Sun) Sat 9am - 5pm £5 l Sun 10am - 4pm £5

ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOWGROUND SHEPTON MALLET SOMERSET BA4 6QN

01636 702326

Organisers of International Antiques & Collectors Fairs

www.iacf.co.uk

enquiries@iacf.co.uk

Back2Market Removals & Clearance Specialists

ADVERTORIAL

‘Big Enough to Deliver, Small Enough to Care’ Cheesy as that line may be, it really does sum up the work and ethos of Back2Market.

We know that whether you are moving house or have a few items or a whole property that needs clearing, you want a professional service that will get the job done without the worry of missing key deadlines, while ensuring that your belongings or those of your loved ones are treated with care and respect. You also need a responsive and flexible service that can meet your individual needs. You want trustworthy, respectful, and yet approachable.

This is exactly what you get with Back2Market Removals and Clearance Specialists – a family-run business that, although having grown significantly, still has a very much hands-on approach from its owners alongside friendly staff, who really do strive to go the extra mile for our customers.

We have everything you would expect us to have: Upper Tier Environment Agency Waste Carriers Licence, all the necessary Insurances (Public Liability, Goods in Transit and Hire & Reward), Commercial Vehicle Operators Licence, to name but a few.

And on top of that we have our Move Assured Affiliation, our Checkatrade membership and we are especially proud of our Which Trusted Trader Accreditation, held since 2015.

We undertake a wide range of removals and clearances, as well as other associated services, including: • Home removals • Office and commercial removals • Packing service – full and partial packing • Boxes and packing materials for people who want to pack themselves • Short- and long-term storage • House, garden, garage/outbuilding clearances • Office, industrial and other commercial clearances • Add-on interior and exterior cleaning services • And now, our newly expanded Probate Clearance Service – that can include valuations for probate and transportation of items to auction You can contact us for a free, no obligation quote by; Email: enquiries@back2market.com Call: 01935 509057 Freephone: 0800 2425012 Removals: 07845 231488 Clearances: 07853 275379

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. spot the first signs of spring and earn a prize! The Spring Time Scavenger Hunt can be collected from the Ticket Office. Entrance is included with general admission to the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens during this time. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

Workshop ILMINSTER On Friday 25 February from 10.00am to 12.30pm and from 1.15pm to 3.45pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a half-day ‘Slow Stitch – Into the Blue’ workshop with Paula Simpson. Explore how the Japanese techniques of Boro and Sashiko can be used to make a small, stitched purse or book cover. All levels welcome. Cost £20 per session.

To book, contact Paula directly on 01460 419264 or at hello@ paulasimpson.co.uk.

On Saturday 26 February from 10.00am to 1.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a halfday ‘Learn to Sew’ workshop for adult and child with Paula Simpson. Enjoy a morning of learning together and getting to know one’s sewing machine.

Learn basic sewing skills to make a simple tote bag to take home. Numbers will be limited to ensure personal attention so all skill levels welcome. Cost £25. To book, contact Paula directly on 01460 419264 or at hello@paulasimpson.co.uk.

From Tuesday 1 March to Tuesday 5 April from 10.00am to 12.00 noon and from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there are weekly halfday ‘Watercolour’ workshops with Nicky Clarke. £15 per session. Book directly with Nicky on 01460 281773 or at randnclarke@hotmail.com.

On Wednesday 2, 16, 23, 30 March, 6 April and Thursday 14 April from 9.45am to 12.15pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Painting in Acrylics’ workshop. All levels welcome. £105 for block of six sessions. Bring along A4 sketchbook, 2B and 4B graphite pencils and acrylics, however, materials are available from the tutor. To book, email workshopbookingiac@gmail.

WHAT’S ON

com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

From Wednesday 2 March to Wednesday 6 April from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a weekly ‘Figure and Face’ workshop with Heather Ford. Learn to draw the human form and the detail of faces to make them come alive. Suitable for beginners as well as the more experienced.

This six-week course is bookable individually at £16 per session.

For more information and to book, contact Heather on 07368 457984 or at heatheraford@ gmail.com.

From Thursday 3 March to Thursday 7 April from 10.00am to 1.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a weekly ‘Pastels: Extinct wildlife of the British Isles’ workshop with Linda Hampson. £85 for six sessions.

Linda’s classes get booked up quickly so book soon. To book, email workshopbookingiac@ gmail.com or call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

From Thursday 3 March to Thursday 7 April from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a weekly ‘Still Life Drawing & Painting’ workshop with Heather Ford.

Draw a still-life composition using line and tone, then develop the artwork by creating a semi-abstract painting inspired by the original drawing.

Suitable for beginners as well as the more experienced. This six-week course is bookable individually at £16 per session.

For more information and to book, contact Heather on 07368 457984 or at heatheraford@ gmail.com.

On Friday 4 March from 10.00am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Felting’ workshop with Geraldine Field.

Transform wool into a wearable scarf, or make a 3D model of a bird or animal. Suitable for all levels. Gallery Cafe open for a lunch break. Cost £30. To book, email workshopbookingiac@ gmail.com or call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 18 March from 10.00am to 1.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Sew Along’ workshop with Paula Simpson. This workshop is tailored to individual needs to help develop skills with the sewing machine. Numbers

Free initial consultation

A personal and friendly approach to business that will work for you www.chalmersaccountants.co.uk info@chalmersaccountants.co.uk Offices at Yeovil, Crewkerne & Langport 01460 279000 limited to six to ensure personal attention. Part of a four-block series. Open to all. £25 per session. To book, contact Paula directly on 01460 419264 or at hello@paulasimpson.co.uk.

On Friday 25 March from 10.00am to 12.30pm and from 1.15pm to 3.45pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a half-day ‘Slow Stitch: Vase of Flowers’ workshop with Paula Simpson.

Explore how painted Lutradur, hand-dyed fabrics and stitches can be used to create an original piece of work inspired by a vase of flowers. All levels welcome. Cost £20 per session.

To book, contact Paula directly on 01460 419264 or at hello@ paulasimpson.co.uk.

Every Monday from 10.30pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a friendly ‘untutored’ clay group that enjoy making hand-built pottery and sculpture. Beginners are welcome and helped to start with some clay, the group tool kit, library and masses of helpful advice. £7 per session. For more information, call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

OBORNE On Sunday 27 February and Sunday 27 March from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Oborne Village Hall is the regular Singing Bowl Soundbath session. Lie down, relax and allow the pure sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath to take the mind into the deeper brainwave states of ‘the relaxation response’. £15 per session. To book, call 01935 389655 or email ahiahel@live. com. www.centreforpuresound. org.

On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 March from 10.00am to 5.00pm

at Oborne Village Hall, there is an Angels of Sound 2 Voice Playshop. This covers Shakti Mantra Yoga, overtone singing and chakra dowsing, and follows on from last month’s event. Cost £70. To book, call 01935 389655 or email ahiahel@live.com. www. centreforpuresound.org.

SHERBORNE On Sunday 20 March from 1.30pm to 4.30pm at the Digby Memorial Church Hall, there is a Sherborne Folk Band workshop led by Julia Catovsky. Suitable for all levels and all acoustic instruments.

Tunes and harmonies taught by ear. Notation and audio supplied. Everyone is welcome!

Admission £10 on the door.

Tickets are cheaper in advance via the website. For more information, phone Julia on 07527 508277, email info@ sherbornefolkband.org or visit www.sherbornefolkband.org.

SOMERTON Every Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm at The Courthouse, Market Place, is a weekly untutored life drawing session.

Tea and coffee provided. Please bring along drawing materials.

Limited numbers, booking essential. £12 per session. Book online at www.acearts.co.uk/ workshop-and-events.

SOUTH PETHERTON On Saturday 19 March from 11.30am to 1.00pm at The David Hall, there is a ‘Celtic and Blues Guitar’ workshop with Clive Carroll. Learn how to play a classic Celtic piece in drop-D tuning as well as some blues improvisation ideas that allow the student to play lead lines over a pulsating bass rhythm.

Bring a guitar, music provided on the day. This is a relaxed,

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

9

WHAT’S ON

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.

WORDSEARCH

no pressure workshop, with the players trying out ideas as a group. Cost £15. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Sunday 20 March from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at The David Hall, experience the therapeutic Pure Sound effect with musician and sound healing facilitator, Dean Carter. This workshop uses singing bowls with vocal overtoning, applied using the yin/yang principles of harmony, to promote a deeply relaxing and healing state to rebalance and re-energise body, mind and spirit. Tickets £15, concessions £13. To book, contact Dean (01935 389655 or at ahiahel@ live.com) or visit www. centreforpuresound.org.

WELLS On Monday 28 February from 9.30am to 3.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, there is a ‘Winter Border’ masterclass. Learn which plants are best for winter colour and shape, get a practical demonstration of winter pruning and have a tour of the Palace

Gardens with expert gardeners, Head Gardener James Cross and Senior Gardener Aron Clay, for an exploration of all things relating to a winter garden. Tea/ coffee and lunch is provided as part of this full-day workshop.

Appropriate outdoor clothing for all weathers required. Price £50pp. For more information, visit www.bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

On Saturday 12 March at 1.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, join folk singer Dora Darling for a ‘Sea Shanty Singing’ workshop. Sea shanties are rousing songs with a long history and tradition. They are a joy to sing, uplifting and full of the passions of life at sea.

All songs are taught by ear with words provided. Tickets £12.50.

Each session is 2.5 hours long (with a small break) and the ticket includes day entry to the Palace and Gardens. To find out more and to book, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk.

there is a ten-week British Sign Language introductory level workshop. The course will take place every Tuesday morning or Tuesday evening. Cost £75.

£30 deposit will be required to secure a place. For more information, email carinya. ecoker@gmail.com or contact by private messenger.

APRIL

DEADLINES

News and Articles: FRIDAY 11 MARCH

Advertisements: MONDAY 14 MARCH

YEOVIL From Tuesday 1 March at Yeovil Community Church,

WORDSEARCH

competition

THE CONDUIT DAZZLES WITH COLOUR!

We like to brighten the days of our readers with plenty of colour on our pages and the fantastic printing quality of the magazine certainly does justice to the colours of the rainbow. With longer days just around the corner and hopefully plenty of sunshine to pick up on nature’s colourful palette we have been inspired to present a Very Colourful Wordsearch. Just find the names of the different colours 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 21 March. Good luck.

AZURE BLUE BUFF CAMEL CHESNUT CORK DRAB

HAZEL HELIOTROPE JET KHAKI NAVY OLIVE ROSE RUBY

RUSSET RUST SAGE SALMON SILVER TURQUOISE UMBER

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

10

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

BOOKS

BOOK REVIEW

Artisan Route in Sherborne ALPACA – PIMA COTTON – SILK: Discover rare pieces of Alpaca Knitwear – never found on the High Street

By Wayne, Winstone’s A spring selection of non-fiction for you this month.

On Saturday 2 April from 10.30am to 3.30pm at The Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, Artisan Route will be holding an Open Day Event in the main hall showing its spring collection, all of which will be available for sale on the day.

Style Darita in Dusty Turquoise Clive has had connections with Sherborne for more than twenty years and is so pleased to have organized this special Open Day in the very spacious main hall at The Digby Hall in Sherborne.

Artisan Route is six years old with a wealth of experience gathered over many years by owner Clive Webber.

This brings a maturity which underpins this exciting brand.

A careful and sensitive approach will still be maintained using the main hall.

You can be sure to enjoy your visit in a relaxing and friendly environment.

The brand specialises in rare pieces of alpaca knitwear, exotic handwoven silk scarves, and ‘Perfect Fit’ Pima cotton tops. They are described as You can check out their an example of real excellence, collection in advance at www. with an attention to fit and artisanroute.co.uk (entering this finish whichMag_March just ‘shouts’ quality. full address). 15:04 Page 1 AR Conduit 22.qxp_Layout 1 15/02/2022

ARTISAN R

O

U

T

E

by c li ve w e bbe r

ALPAC A - PIM A COT TON - SILK

Lauren – Classic links knit

jacket with crochet covered buttons.

Knitted in 100% Peruvian Baby Alpaca.

Semi-fitted.

Spoon Fed

by Tim Spector pbck £9.99 Published by Vintage

We are all bombarded with advice about what we should and shouldn't eat, and new scientific discoveries are announced every day. Yet the more we are told about nutrition, the less we seem to understand.

Spoon Fed is a groundbreaking book that forces us to question every diet plan, official recommendation, miracle cure or food label we encounter, and encourages us to rethink our whole relationship with food.

Through his pioneering scientific research, Tim Spector has been shocked to discover how little good evidence there is for many of our most deep-rooted ideas about food. In a series of short, myth-busting chapters, Spoon Fed reveals why almost everything we've been told about food is wrong.

He explores the scandalous lack of good science behind many medical and government food recommendations, and how the food industry holds sway over these policies and our choices.

Seed to Dust: A Gardener’s Story

by Marc Hamer pbck £9.99 Published by Vintage

An original, semi-autobiographical book on how to live, be calm and content with only a little, in a quietly humming garden. It is a reflective and restorative account of a life lived in harmony with nature.

Marc has nurtured the same twelve acres of garden for decades. It's rarely visited so he is the only person who fully knows its secrets.

He takes us month-by-month through his time working in the garden and outside it.

Open Day Event Digby Hall - Spacious Main Hall

We encounter plants and wildlife, gardening folklore and the joys of manual work; we learn, too, about Marc's path from homelessness to family contentment, and the changes that run through both the garden's life and our own. An absorbing combination of memoir and natural history.

Saturday 2nd April 2022 (10:30am - 3:30pm) Hound Street, Sherborne DT9 3AA Check out our Spring collection of Alpaca Knitwear, Pima Cotton Tops and Handwoven Silk Scarves in advance at

w w w. a r t i s a n r o u t e . c o . u k or phone for a brochure. T : 01896 823 765 ( Monday - Friday 10.00 - 18.00)

8, Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset. DTP 3PX 01935 816 128 winstonebooks1@gmail.com www.winstonebooks.co.uk 11

What's Special About

Sherborne It’s been called ‘the prettiest small town in Dorset’* and on a beautiful spring day when the sun catches the ochre-coloured sandstone of the ancient abbey, bathing the rest of the town in a golden glow, you would be hard pressed to find a more historic and romantic town to wander around and explore.

The explorer and consummate courtier Sir Walter Raleigh knew a thing or two about romance, thanks to his reputed love affair with Queen Elizabeth I and he also fell in love with the town making his home at Sherborne Castle and calling it his ‘fortune’s fold’.

More fortune was accumulated in the town a couple of hundred years after Sir Walter’s demise with the rise of the silk industry. A visit to Sherborne Museum is recommended to find out how Sherborne silk became renowned worldwide and continued the town’s connections with royalty.

Mention the name Sherborne and most people will recall there is a very famous public school in the town. Sherborne School for Boys featured as a backdrop in a number of compelling films including The Imitation Game which was a reminder of one of Sherborne’s most famous old boys – namely Alan Turing who cracked the Enigma Code. A more recent alumnus is Chris Martin from Coldplay, and Sherborne is no stranger to celebrities, with Daniel Craig, Rachel Weisz and Orlando Bloom seen about town.

If every adult in

SHERBORNE

spent just

#fiverfest

£5 per week in their local independent shops

& businesses it would mean

£1.9 MILLION

PER YEAR GOING DIRECTLY INTO OUR LOCAL ECONOMY* which can lead to more jobs, a better high street, a stronger local economy & a nicer place to live.

MAKES YOU THINK DOESN'T IT?! fiverfestsherborne

FIVER FEST

fiverfestsherborne

12-26 MAR

LOADS OF AMAZING £5 SPECIAL OFFERS

FROM OUR INDEPENDENT SHOPS & BUSINESSES. CHECK

OUT

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LOOK OUT FOR POSTERS IN SHOPS, OR ON SOCIAL MEDIA

shop like your

high street depends on it

12

WWW.TOTALLYLOCALLY.ORG

*Based on figures calculated by Totally Locally using most recent O.N.S. Census data: Town's adult population x £5 x 52 weeks in a year = total into local economy.

2022

TO HELP YOU SPEND THAT £5 WE'RE TAKING PART IN THE

fiverfestsherbs

What to see

The Abbey: the gothic presence of fantastic Sherborne Abbey goes back much further than its magnificent Perpendicular arches and famous fanvaulting suggest. Tradition has it that King Alfred the Great was schooled there, and certainly his brothers King Ethelbald and King Ethelbert were buried (AD 860 and 865) there.

The New Castle: one of two of Sherborne’s famous castles, this one was built by Sir Walter Raleigh and has magnificent grounds, later crafted by Capability Brown.

The Old Castle: built in the twelfth century, this is now an impressive ruin run by English Heritage and provides the background for many a summer picnic and the odd wedding proposal!

Sherborne School: like the abbey, the school has compelling architecture that has provided a picturesque and atmospheric setting for big and small screen alike. The sixteenth-century school boasts old boys like actor Jeremy Irons, Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville.

The Museum: located centrally in the heart of Sherborne, the museum occupies what was formerly the Almonry belonging to the abbey and makes a great starting point for a visit to the town.

Sherborne Steam and Waterwheel Centre: housing probably the largest working waterwheel in Dorset, it has a special place in Sherborne’s history because of its role in providing a water supply for the town from 1869, after which the death rate from water-borne diseases was reduced by more than half.

Where to eat and drink

After shopping from a choice of independent shops where in March you can make the most of Fiver Fest, quench your thirst at a coffee or tea shop (you will be spoilt for choice). If you are looking to make more

of a meal of things, try visiting Dorset Tourism award winners, The Cross Keys, located at the heart of the community on Sherborne’s historic Conduit marketplace known as The Parade. The Cross Keys is one of the town’s most famous inns.

Just around the corner from Sherborne Abbey, it has been welcoming locals and visitors for more than two hundred years. First and foremost a friendly pub where you can grab a snack and a beer from one of the local award-winning breweries, a delicious glass of wine or a classic cocktail, it also sells excellent coffee throughout the day. Also as parents, owners Hannah and Mo appreciate the importance of including children around the table and offer young guests a smaller portion of many of the main menu dishes as well as a children’s menu.

A BUSTLING HUB AT THE HEART OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY Delicious Seasonal Menu

Locally sourced Ingredients

Luxury Rooms

Open 7 days a week A warm and welcoming atmosphere awaits

www.thecrosskeyssherborne.com The Parade, 88 Cheap Street Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3BJ 01935 508130

info@thecrosskeyssherborne.com

@crosskeysherb

crosskeysherbornes

SWR are proud to be supporting small businesses Thanks for nominating the businesses you can’t wait to go back to, The Cross Keys is one of the winners of our restart package

WE MEAN BUSINESS IN SHERBORNE

Full Terms and Conditions apply*

SUPPORT | TRAINING | NETWORKING

SWR1772020

Where to stay

The Eastbury Hotel is an awardwinning boutique town house hotel, known for its quality food – it won a Gold award in Taste of the West 2017 and offers an award-winning indoor restaurant, headed up by Executive Chef Matthew Street from BBC’s MasterChef, and enjoys 2 Rosettes for Culinary Excellence.

Guests at The Eastbury can relax and enjoy an acre of walled garden. For more information, visit www. theeastburyhotel.co.uk.

The Sherborne Chamber of Trade and Commerce exists to promote its members’ businesses and the wider business community in Sherborne. Come and join us!

NEW MEMBERS: JOIN TODAY FOR JUST £30 AND GET THE SUPPORT AND VISIBILITY YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS! www.sherbornechamber.co.uk

*Sir Simon Jenkins

info@sherbornechamber.co.uk @SherborneChamber

#LoveSherborne

@SherborneCOT

13

MINTERNE HOUSE

MINTERNE HOUSE WEDDINGS:

Anything and Everything is Possible As you make your way through the gates and down the winding driveway of Minterne House, you are greeted to a spectacular view of its warm Ham Hill stone and the beautiful valley in which it is nestled.

Home of the Churchill and Digby families since 1620, Minterne House is steeped in history and its view welcomes you like a warm embrace.

In an exciting new chapter, Minterne House has opened its doors and is welcoming couples to celebrate their wedding day in its exquisite surrounds. A family home to Lord Digby, this spectacular home has previously held only a handful of weddings ensuring this is now one of Dorset’s most exclusive wedding venues.

A unique country house in an unequalled setting, Minterne offers couples the perfect backdrop for their wedding with exclusive use of the house and lawn. Understanding that every wedding is unique, they are proud to work with couples offering the flexibility and support to create their perfect day, from ceremony start to starlit end. Whether you are looking for stately home style or to design your very own marquee venue, Minterne House is here to help create your perfect day.

Benefiting from having all its principal rooms licensed, couples have the freedom to say ‘I do’ in a breathtaking backdrop of their choosing before celebrating their first 14

meal as a married couple in the warmth and splendour of its embrace. From the grand Trafalgar Hall with its floor-to-ceiling stone mullioned windows to the intimacy of Lady Digby’s Garden Room, each room is filled with charm and detail.

Holding their wedding at Minterne gives couples the opportunity to stay in the private house with their closest friends and family. With beautifully appointed accommodation, once the evening draws to a close, guests can retire to a land of high thread counts and enjoy a leisurely morning while the sun rises over the spectacular gardens and estate.

As a family home, and a very much lived-in residence, the house is both grand and intimate. As you enter the barrel-vaulted Trafalgar Hall you are enveloped in warmth making it the perfect setting for intimate and large weddings alike. The private rooms within the house were conceived with entertaining in mind.

From their exclusive rooms that can be adjusted to your every need to sumptuous gardens to host the ultimate al-fresco experience, Minterne House has it all, right in the heart of Dorset.

Micro, macro or magnificent, Minterne House is available for weddings. Contact Sarah at weddings@minterne.co.uk or 07709 031722 to book your viewing and find out more.

VISIT MINTERNE GARDENS THIS SPRING! Beautifully bright and light, daffodils are the birth flower of the month of March. These blooms that remind us of sunshine and the coming summer are rich with symbolism.

Minterne Gardens has an abundance of daffodils at this time of year – stroll through 27 acres of wild woodland garden ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ with friends, families and loved ones.

Minterne Gardens open daily from 10am to 6pm.

Minterne Magna, Dorset DT2 7AU enquiries@minterne.co.uk Adults £6 Season Tickets available: Family £30, Single £20

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GARDENING

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

SEED SOWING

POUNDBURY GARDENS Peverell Avenue, Poundbury DT1 3RT Tel: 01305 257250

By Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group

There is a huge joy in buying a packet of seeds, sowing them in a seed tray and watching as tiny green shoots start to pop up in the compost just a few days later. No wonder that gardening can become somewhat addictive!

It’s nearly the best time for seed sowing especially with summer bedding plants in mind. Starting too early will give you problems later on as most varieties will only be able to be planted out at the end of May because of the chance of frosts. Starting too soon will mean that plants will grow leggy and will lose their quality whilst you wait to put them out.

Due to the continued interest in raising plants from seed, made apparent in lockdown, we have a fabulous range available. So come along and make your selection! The seed packet has lots of really useful information and it’s worth reading this for each packet so as to understand the needs of each type of seed. Some can be sown directly into the soil, but others will need sowing in a seed tray first.

Select a seed tray or better still a half seed tray and a good quality seed compost. For larger seeds the peat-free wool compost works well, whilst smaller seeds might be better off in the SylvaGrow Multi with added John Innes.

I like to mix the compost with a product called perlite. This lightweight, white material is sterile and opens up the compost allowing really good root development which falls apart easily when it’s time to transplant the seedlings.

Most seed will need covering and whereas instinct will tell you to cover them with a layer of compost it is much better to use another material called vermiculite. This again is very clean and is so lightweight that it will allow the seedlings to easily push through without getting distorted as they would do if you use compost as the covering.

With a watering can and a fine rose on the end, water the seeds in. Cover the tray with a propagator lid (a clear plastic cover) and place them in a warm position with good light levels. A heated propagator is

www.thegardensgroup.co.uk

ideal and will both speed up and even out the germination.

Label your tray with a description of what you have sown and the date the seeds were sown. This will hopefully avoid confusion later in the gardening year!

And then wait! The seed packet will tell you how long germination should take and the date on the label will remind you when you sowed the seed.

Once the seedlings have germinated, they will need pricking out (transplanting).

Handle them carefully by the leaves only – never the stem.

Loosen the compost and gently tease them out of the compost.

The perlite will ensure that they come out easily and with a good root system.

Prick out these seedlings into cell trays filled with a quality potting compost such as New Horizon or SylvaGrow. Water them in well and put in a welllit and warm (but not too warm) spot.

Once we get to warmer days, the plants can go out during the day but are best brought back into a protected spot inside overnight. Come the middle of May they can finally be released into the garden.

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15

GARDENING

UP THE GARDEN PATH

By Julie Haylock, Sandhurst Garden Design As I write my article, we mark the beginning of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Her Majesty the Queen and her 70 years of service and devotion to our country and the Commonwealth, what an amazing achievement! The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative is well under way with communities coming together to plant trees as a legacy to mark this historic event.

banks or gravel gardens. It grows to a height of 15cm and has narrow silver leaves with white flowers.

It started me thinking about all the planned events for the coming year and in particular the street parties planned for June, and the plants we might like to use in our gardens to reflect the occasion.

What could be nicer than a patriotic hanging basket of red, white, and blue annuals combined with bunting to lift all our spirits, and boy, how we all need it!

Festuca Glauca – this dwarf perennial grass forms a dense tussock of blue/grey foliage giving an almost ‘misty’ effect and is totally drought-proof when established.

It looks great planted in large drifts, between other plants in borders or in containers. 30 x 20cm.

Platinum or, in this case, silver plants make a fantastic addition at any time of the year to borders and containers. Silver looks amazing with any other colour you choose to pair it with, adding a splash of sparkle and sophistication.

I have suggested a selection of plants that you might want to look out for, but I suspect over the coming weeks, and with Chelsea Flower Show just around the corner when horticultural growers will be showcasing their new varieties, there will be many more aptly named plants appearing in our garden centres to tempt us even further.

Most of the plants I have chosen have a Mediterranean vibe. Common with plants that have silver foliage, they are often drought-tolerant so perfect for a sizzling summer.

An excellent choice for the front of your border is Cerastium tomentosum ‘Snow in Summer’. This vigorous mat-forming perennial is ideal for carpeting dry sunny

Senecio cineraria ‘Silver Dust’ – this tender shrub grown as a half-hardy annual has fine feathery foliage, shaped a little like an oak leaf, and makes for an extremely useful addition to the front of a border or in containers. 30 x 30cm.

For a mid-height border plant, how about Stachys Byzantina ‘Silver Carpet’? This tactile plant has soft oval leaves, which gives it its common name, lamb’s ears.

This evergreen plant is perfect for a sunny border or gravel garden, forming a carpet of drought-tolerant silver foliage.

Santolina or cotton lavender likes a sunny spot or gravel garden, forms a neat clump of delicate grey/white aromatic foliage, and in late summer, a small yellow flower appears on wiry stems.

If you have the space in your border and want a statement plant, look no further than Cynara Cardunculus, cardoon or the artichoke thistle. This large architectural plant makes the perfect statement, either on its own or planted in a large herbaceous border with contrasting plants. In summer, tall stems of jaggededged leaves are topped off by a fat bud which opens to a large purple thistle which attracts masses of bees. 2m x 90cm.

Slightly smaller but just as magnificent is Melianthus Major with its large grey/ green toothed leaves held on upward branching stems and in hot summers it produces a reddishJulie Haylock brown flower. Plant in a Garden Designer sheltered spot and mulch heavily in the autumn 20 Sandhurst Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2LG to protect the roots Tel: 07899 710168 from frosts. Perfect as a Email: juliesandhurst1@gmail.com www.sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk stunning specimen for a perennial border with an Contact Julie for garden and border design, planting plans, plant selection advice and garden styling exotic feel. 90 x 80cm.

Sandhurst Garden Design

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

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Until next time, Julie

POEM CORNER

By Andrew Haylock

The inspiration for this poem is based on how excitedly the hare embraces the arrival of spring and the promise it holds.

THE MARCH HARE The promise of spring was in the air, On the field edge sat a hare.

It had been a mad March day, Full of sprint, chase, box and play.

The chilly breeze warmed by the sun, The overwhelming desire just to run!

He had skipped in sunshine by day, dealing with rivals who got in his way.

In the night sky, light from afar, Brown eyes watch planets and shooting stars.

Twitching nose and long ears listening in tune, For predators that hunt under cover of the moon.

Early dawn and he joins the quest, To decide just which hare boxes the best.

Now he has had many bouts, Winner by a whisker, never in doubt.

Scent of primrose, bob of tail ‘catch me if you dare’ An icon of spring, we salute the March Hare.

GARDENING

CREATING A FUNCTIONAL OUTDOOR SPACE

By Liv Sabat

Having a functional outdoor space opens the gateway to being able to use your garden for many more purposes, not just purely decorative.

A deck or paved space can add so much more to a garden, not only aesthetically but also practically. It will give you more space to host outdoor gatherings come summer and also more space for you to lounge and enjoy your garden.

Porcelain paving and millboard decking are two of our go-to products when it comes to expanding the useable area of your outdoor space.

The millboard decking would create the perfect base for a sunroom which is the ideal solution to expanding the useable space in your outdoor

area. A sunroom allows you to bring the outdoors in which is particularly useful in the winter months. You could use your new outdoor flooring as a barbeque area, a hot tub area or even an outdoor gym.

You can explore so many more possibilities with an area of outdoor flooring.

Both types of outdoor flooring are extremely hard wearing so they can be used in almost any situation and there is also no need to worry about weather resistance either. Whether you want an outdoor seating area, lounging space or a play area for your children, these two types of outdoor flooring have got all your needs covered.

If you opt to have a sunroom installed on top of your

millboard decking then that really does broaden your horizons; not only do you have an extended and more functional area, it is also covered. There is the option to have sliding glass doors on your sunroom which would create a beautiful enclosed space.

There are styles and colours to fit everyone, whether you are looking for light or dark, bold or minimal, there is definitely something for you. You may even decide you want an entire revamp: new plants, edging, planters, everything, and that’s

great too. That would mean you get a fresh start so you can create a space that you can be really proud to say is yours.

Now that you know everything you need to know to create your new functional outdoor space it is time to get the ball rolling! Whether you want outdoor flooring, a sunroom or an entire garden regeneration project, we are here to help you.

Thank you for reading, see you in the next one.

LOW MA

ANCE INTEN

DITED ACCR E PROFESSIONAL

INSTALLATION

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17

COMPUTING

BUSINESS

PUBS AND RESTAURANTS – NEXT CHALLENGES

By Jim Rayner

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.

The last of the COVID restrictions should soon be gone but hospitality businesses now face a new set of challenges: • Costs are rising – particularly food plus dramatic increases in energy costs • Government support being withdrawn – the temporary VAT cut to be scrapped in April • Staff shortages – increasing the cost of attracting and keeping good people • Tax rises – National Insurance paid by employers rises by 1.25% in April

Some of these changes – food and drink increases and the VAT change – affect variable costs.

Those are the costs that vary according to how many meals you serve. Others affect fixed costs, which don’t change as you sell more meals.

And let’s not forget, restaurant customers are facing their own cost of living squeeze with increased gas bills, a 1.25% rise in NI and possible mortgage rate increases on the horizon.

All of which means hospitality businesses are facing big cost increases just at a time that many customers have less cash to spend. Setting profitable prices is never easy but it’s now even more challenging.

cost of ingredients (food and drink). That’s what you have available to cover your overheads and leave you with a profit.

probably won’t object to small incremental changes but may be shocked by a big price rise.

2. Don’t cut prices (or fail to pass on cost increases) in response to falling demand; it will nearly always make your business even less profitable. Restaurants that cut average prices by 5% typically need to attract at least 8% more business to be better off. And price conscious customers are not loyal.

4. Know your breakeven level, the number of covers you need to serve to avoid making a loss.

5. Look at ways to make more use of your capacity by attracting budget-conscious diners at off-peak times.

To help pub, restaurant and café owners set profitable prices, I’ve put together a free interactive calculator you can access on my website www.james-rayner. co.uk.

3. Don’t concentrate on your total sales. The key income measure to focus on is the margin after taking off the

Here are some golden rules: 1. Don’t be tempted to put off reviewing prices. The longer you delay, the larger the increases you will eventually have to make. And your regular customers (who are of course your best ones)

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

EMAIL SET-UP AND SYNCHRONISATION (PC, MOBILES AND TABLETS)

By James Flynn, Milborne Port Computers We get asked a lot to resolve email issues, especially where the user wants to use multiple devices like a PC as well as a laptop, smartphone and tablet. By the time they get to us they’ve usually managed to tie themselves in knots and we have to start back at the beginning. To help understand the difficulty, let’s take a look at how email works.

Email, just like a text message on a mobile, is a piece of written text maybe with attachments that gets bundled up and sent to an email address elsewhere.

Your device (PC, laptop, etc.) sends the message to your 18

SMTP server (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol for those that are interested!). The email then whooshes off to the intended recipient via the internet where it arrives at the incoming mail server and drops neatly into the recipient’s mailbox on that server. So far so good? Now comes the more complicated bit …

The recipient has basically three ways of getting that email: 1. WebMail – all mail is stored on the server and is viewed as a webpage. Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo were the pioneers of this technology and are

probably still the most common.

Most ISPs now provide this functionality with varying degrees of success but nearly all have on-page advertising that can be a real pain!

2. POP Mail – via a mail client like Outlook, Windows Mail, MAC Mail, Thunderbird, etc.

POP stands for Post Office Protocol for those that are interested, and this is where the client goes to the incoming mail server and says ‘hello, any mail for me?’; the server then sends any mail to the client and the mail is then viewable by the user. Importantly, this is a one-way transaction and having

been completed, the server is then cleared. Most ISP-based email (BT, Tiscali, TalkTalk, Virgin) traditionally used this method.

3. IMAP Mail – again via a mail client but using Internet Message Access Protocol that allows multiple connections via multiple devices using twoway transactions. The mail is always stored on the server and each client replicates that information. In this way if you ‘read’ an email on one device, it shows as having been ‘read’ on another device. Equally, if you send an email from one device then that sent email

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BUSINESS

A WONKY WEEK AT WORK

By Patricia Marks

Balderdash, crikey, crumbs, bother, drat, heck, gosh; these are just some of the printable expletives I have used in this last week. It has been a week of weeks – Murphy’s Law kicked in big style, and I got lost in it!

To remind you, Murphy's Law (‘If anything can go wrong, it will’) was born at Edwards Air Force Base in 1949 at North Base. It was named after Captain Edward A. Murphy, an engineer working on Air Force Project MX981, a project designed to see how much sudden deceleration a person can stand in a crash. One day, after finding that a transducer was wired wrong, he cursed the technician responsible and said, ‘If there is any way to do it wrong, he'll find it.’ The contractor's project manager kept a list of ‘laws’ and added this one, which he called Murphy's Law.

arrived at every transaction, meeting, conversation, email and decision in the wrong frame of mind and could not see straight and probably made things worse.

By the end of the week, I feel it was a self-fulfilling prophecy – I was inadvertently creating the ‘wrongness’ and taking it with me as I could not let go of each issue before I moved through the week to the next thing. I

So, what can you do to get back on track?

Immediately: • Remember the next day is a new day with new possibilities and opportunities.

•

A good night’s sleep is usually helpful.

•

Stay hydrated to keep your body working properly.

•

Talk to someone you trust and sound it out.

•

Control your emotions, when things have gone into ‘wrong’ mode, leave emotions at the door.

They completely get in the way of you making rational, conscious, realistic decisions.

•

Stay calm and retain your composure.

•

Analyse the situation, get deep into the reasons why it happened, and be reasonable about what you’re going to do about it. If you can recognise and define what the issue is, you’ve done half the work.

Medium term: Practising positive thinking helps too. The power of a positive business owner mindset can be the key to success. Positivity has been linked to increased ability

This, folks, is where the knots usually get tied up: different devices using different protocols – one PC using POP mail and clearing the server, one smart phone using IMAP and trying to replicate.

If you’ve got yourself tied up, most providers have help documents that describe in detail how to set up each device properly. Just read carefully and follow the stepby-step instructions.

Long Term: Take time out to think clearly about the bigger picture and what it is you need for each step along the way to execute your business goals. Be discerning of the people around you – which person is the best at what job, which clients will take you the furthest and what it is that you feel you should be doing to make your business more efficient.

Business Support for Care Providers Available now! - Fully funded, tailored one to one business advice, industry specific webinars and business skills development workshops for Somerset-based adult care providers.

Support will include:

is shown in the ‘sent items’ folder of all other devices, ditto for deleted, drafts, etc.

All WebMail and good ISPs provide this functionality today.

to solve problems; more energy; increased resiliency; better decision making, and can even be infectious! With all these benefits, it seems crucial that a positive mindset should be the foundation upon which any business is built.

Strategy

Management

Finance

This programme will look

Time will be made to look

Each organisation will

at business and organisational strategy in line with key goals and objectives.

at management and staffing processes, procedures and structure.

undertake a financial assessment to establish their current position.

For more information: care@sbacic.org

The choice as always is yours, but if you think you need advice, you know where to come.

01458 253 331 Registered Address : Great Bow Wharf, Langport, Somerset TA10 9PN

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19

FINANCE ARTS

HOW MUCH DO I NEED IN MY PENSION TO RETIRE?

By Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning

The question of ‘how much do I need in my pension to retire?’ is something I’m asked frequently but it’s not a question you can answer unless you know what retirement looks like for you. When I work with clients, I ask them to spend time thinking about what retirement looks like for them personally and what they want to achieve. Here are some things to think about before you can start to answer this difficult question.

Setting a retirement date Are you planning to retire on your 65th birthday or is your goal to retire as early as you can? Some people now prefer to transition into retirement over a number of years by reducing their hours or the number of days they work each week. You may be thinking ‘I’d like to retire tomorrow but can I afford it?’

20

will start to receive it, how much you’re likely to receive and whether you are on track to get the maximum level of income.

From April 2022 the new state pension can provide up to £185 per week which is £9,628 per year.

If you begin to plan early enough, you can decide when you will retire or reduce your hours, rather than waiting until you reach your pension retirement date or state pension age.

Pensions, savings and investments When planning for retirement, don’t just look at the size of your pension fund; it is the combination of all your personal savings, investments, pensions and other assets like a business or properties that can help provide you with income and capital during your retirement.

Building a budget Once you have a date to plan for, you then need to consider carefully how much you want to spend each year. Is £20,000 enough or will £60,000 a year provide you with the lifestyle you’d like, enable you to travel and eat out more often? Are there sports and hobbies you’d like to take up or continue into retirement? Without work, you have more time to enjoy yourself, but will this come at an additional cost?

Building a budget for your retirement is a good starting point but also think about how your spending habits might change as you grow older. When will you finish paying the mortgage or will you still be helping fund your children’s education?

You may have accumulated several different pensions during your career, invested into ISAs, purchased shares and have a number of different savings accounts. All of these need to be considered as part of your retirement pot and it’s a good idea to have a record of these in one place. A personal net worth statement can be put together on a simple spreadsheet and should be reviewed regularly. What are they worth now and what value are they likely to be in the future? If you’re investing into a pension on a regular basis, the pension provider should be able to provide a statement of what level of benefits you may receive at a future date.

State Pension With so many changes to the state pension in recent years, have you obtained a state pension forecast from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)? This can be obtained simply online or by completing an application form which then gives you the important information about when you

As a starting point, the very basic rule is that if you’re retiring at 65, you’re likely to need a pension fund of 20 to 25 times the amount of income you’ll need each year.

Based on a withdrawal rate of 4%, you may need pensions and investments of £500,000 to provide an income of £20,000 per annum.

Planning for retirement Planning is the key to answering the difficult question of how much do I need in my pension to retire, but those that have a plan are likely to know when and how much they’ll need. It then gives them the confidence to enjoy their retirement when it comes.

At Fort Financial Planning, we work with individuals and business owners to build and help implement their personal retirement plans. If you’re interested in finding out more about financial planning and being able to visualise your financial future, then contact FFP on 01935 813322.

Your life Your money Your future We never forget that it’s your life, your money and your future that is important.

Our advice is completely impartial and we partner you over the long term.

Call us today on

01935 813322 info@ffp.org.uk www.ffp.org.uk Trusted, Professional, Fee Based Advice Fort Financial Planning, Etheridge House, Barton View Business Park, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 FW

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

LEGAL

WHY YOU SHOULD LEAVE A DIGITAL LEGACY?

By Adam Hillier, Battens Solicitors Trying to access the important data locked into the phone of a deceased relative can be a logistical nightmare. But now Apple has launched a new Digital Legacy program to overcome this problem. Senior Associate Solicitor Adam Hillier reports.

Advances in mobile phone technology have seen us progress from just a telephone resembling a small brick into the sleek multi-purpose devices that many of us now use. There really is an app for everything, easily downloadable, straight onto your phone.

All this data remains locked safely within the phone through a combination of passwords, unique thumbprints or other security measures. However, such protection can mean that without careful forward planning, a sudden unexpected death of a family member could lead to their mobile phone blocking access to their personal or professional material. Under the iCloud Terms of Service, the deceased person’s data would effectively die with them.

a message via their phone to a maximum of five people requesting that they become legacy contacts. They are most likely to be family members or friends but could also perhaps be trusted professionals like solicitors or accountants who may have been appointed as executors to act in their will.

Apple is now attempting to simplify this problem for users of iPhones, iPads, MacBooks and other such devices. In its recent iOS update (15.2), it has introduced its new Digital Legacy program.

When the legacy contact is notified, the message shares a unique access key with them, and this is then automatically stored in their Apple ID settings. Additionally, Apple does still require proof of death via a death certificate meaning that nobody can attempt to access the data whilst the individual is still alive.

It would be prudent to check with your legacy contact that they are happy to have this responsibility before sending the message and if they do not own an apple device themselves or perhaps it is too old to update to iOS 15.2, you can instead print a copy of the access key for them or alternatively leave such information with your will.

Digital Legacy allows the individual to select and send

After you have died, your chosen legacy contacts

would be able to access your Apple account data from the phone in a simplified and organised manner, rather than a timely, expensive and likely unsuccessful legal battle with Apple, who would fight to protect their customer’s privacy.

At Battens, we would suggest that when you prepare new

CAN WE

HELP YOU

wills or update existing ones, careful consideration is given to your digital data and suitable precautions put in place to assist loved ones after death.

For more information, contact Adam Hillier at adam.hillier@ battens.co.uk or on 01935 846165.

WITH A

LEGAL QUESTION

?

We run a free legal helpline every Monday between 4-6pm so we can connect with, listen and support our local community.

To book your slot for the next free legal helpline please enquire on our website pardoes.co.uk

THE PARDOES FREE LEGAL HELPLINE

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21

COMPENSATION FOR WORK ACCIDENTS Rod Dutton, Solicitor Rod Dutton is a Fellow of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers. He deals with injury compensation claims but with a particular interest in accidents at work.

If you have an accident at work, you are not automatically entitled to compensation. Employers must insure their employees against accidents, but remember it is the employer that is insured. For the employee to recover compensation he or she must prove that the employer accepts legal responsibility or ‘liability’ for the accident.

Your lawyer will be looking at three things; cause, breach of duty and damage.

Cause In most cases the cause of an accident is clear, but the claimant has to prove the cause, or the claim fails.

A worker might suffer from back pain which he or she believes has been caused by repetitive lifting at work. If the evidence casts doubt on this, the claim will be a struggle. The employee has to show that the repetitive process either caused or contributed to the injury.

Breach of duty An employer has a duty of care to protect the employees.

The employer must: • Provide a safe system of working • Provide a safe place of work • Provide competent colleagues • Provide adequate training • Assess risks

Your solicitor will be looking to work out whether the employer can be criticised on any of these counts. If so, then the employer will have been in breach of their duty of care to the worker and a claim is likely to suceed.

An employer must assess risks and act on the findings of the assessment. A failure by the employer to assess risk or to assess it properly is often the key to a successful personal injury claim.

Damage Damage includes injury compensation and any financial losses that reasonably flow from the accident. Typically, these losses will include a claim for loss of earnings, other financial losses, such as medical expenses, travel costs and possibly care costs.

Cause and damage are often closely interconnected. It is for the claimant to prove that the damage claimed has been caused by the accident in question.

It is a sad fact that there are upwards of half a million accidents at work in the UK every year. 100+ are fatal accidents.

The figures for 2020, are these: • 700,000 accidents • 65,427 more serious accidents • 111 fatal accidents • 38.8 million working days lost to accident or work-related illness.

Humphries Kirk offers free initial advice on all accident compensation enquiries. We can offer no win no fee. For advice please call Rod Dutton on 01305 251007, or email him on r.dutton@hklaw.uk or any other member of our litigation team.

PERSONAL INJURY

GET THE COMPENSATION YOU DESERVE If through no fault of your own, you have suffered accidental injury or medical malpractice, speak to one of our highly experienced personal injury solicitors.

Personal relationships built on trust and understanding…

…that’s refreshing | www.hklaw.uk Get in touch with our experts.

Bournemouth 01202 421111 Cranborne Chase 01258 840507 Crewkerne 01460 279100 Dorchester 01305 251007

Parkstone 01202 715815 Poole 01202 725400 Swanage 01929 423301 Wareham 01929 552141

www.hklaw.uk

22

ARTS

ARTS

By Julie Locke

VISUAL ART

Until Saturday 26 February from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Hope Emerging’ by Tara Kennedy. Textile sculptures and wall art inspired by an emotional response to different cultures and religions suffering in conflict. Important messages of acceptance, empathy and hope are shown emerging from this pain. Coloured yarns provide a metaphor expressing the transformation from blood spilt and the pain of suffering through graduated tones to ivory conveying hope. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk.

Until Monday 28 February from Monday to Saturday from 5.30pm to 8.00pm at the Nationwide Branch, Yeovil, there is a digital window projection on display. The projection artwork was created by artist Richard Tomlinson and creative educator Natasha Rand, working with students from Buckler’s Mead Academy and Young Artist Yeovil, a group of young creatives aged 13-17. Anyone can join Yeovil Window Wanderland and create a window display any time of the year! Yeovil Window Wanderland 2022 was organised by Yeovil Art Space in partnership with Love Yeovil. www.yeovilartspace.uk. www. loveyeovil.com.

Until Tuesday 1 March from 10.00am to 5.30pm at David Simon Contemporary Art Gallery, Castle Cary, there is an exhibition ‘Impressions on Paper’ which will include works by some of the most significant names in modern British art, and coincides with a major exhibition of Francis Bacon: Man & Beast at the Royal Academy. A fine collection of original, signed works on paper by Francis Bacon, is exhibited alongside work by Lucien Freud, David Hockney RA, Henry Moore, John Nash, Ben Nicholson,

Graham Sutherland, figurative engravings by Maynard Hales, and characteristic still life and interiors by Steven Hubbard.

Open: Monday to Saturday (closed on Wednesday and Sunday). For more information, call 01963 359102 or visit www. davidsimoncontemporary.com.

Until Saturday 5 March from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is the annual ‘Schools go Visual IX’ exhibition, featuring the amazing creative talents of the pupils at schools in and around South Somerset. Taking part: Chard School, Greenfylde, Neroche, Swanmead and Stanchester Academy. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition).

For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

Until Monday 2 May at Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Bruton, there is an exhibition of works by Ida Applebroog. The exhibition ‘Right Up To Now 1969-2021’ consists of highlights from the artist’s largest retrospective to date at Museo Reina Sofía, Madrid, alongside important new works created over the past year. Throughout her career, Ida Applebroog has consistently explored the interconnected themes of power, gender, politics, and sexuality. Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00am to 4.00pm. To visit the exhibition, book a timed reservation at www.hauserwirth.com/hauserwirth-exhibitions.

From Saturday 5 March to Saturday 2 April from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Six of the Best’. Sebastian Chance, Tom Clark, Heather Fallows, Nina Gronw-Lewis, Frank Martin and Ricky Romain were brought together by ACE founding trustee Frank Martin to showcase current contemporary art practice in the South West now. There’s an opportunity to

meet the artists on Saturday 5 March from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts. co.uk.

From Saturday 5 March to Saturday 2 April from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Chaos and Order: Adventures in Clay’ by Jane King. This is a collection of dynamic ceramic sculptures, many made especially for this exhibition, which combine opposites of form, texture and colour as metaphors for perfection and control versus imperfection and chaos. Vivid, flat acrylic surfaces contrast with muted, messy or collapsing sections that express the contrast between how one would like life to be with how it really is. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk.

From Tuesday 8 to Saturday 26 March from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an exhibition by Art Textiles: Made in Britain entitled ‘Found’.

This exhibition showcases the diversity of British art textiles and celebrates the wealth of textile talents based in this country. Art Textiles: Made in Britain is an exhibiting group of professional artists and comprises ten internationally renowned textiles artists based in the UK. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com. ​From Tuesday 29 March to Saturday 16 April from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, it is the Yeovil Art Group’s Spring Exhibition. This is the group’s first exhibition at the Arts Centre. Works by this exciting group of multi-talented artists will include paintings in acrylics,

oils, pastels and watercolours, and sculptures – something for everyone. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com.

MUSIC On Friday 25 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, is Toyah’s Posh Pop Tour. This is a unique chance to experience Toyah up close and personal with a show that has a lively cinematic sound using Toyah’s vocals, keyboards, stand-up bass and storytelling.

It will include Toyah performing her hit singles and classic songs, alongside recalling stories from her colourful, forty-year career.

Tickets £22. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Friday 25 February at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, it’s The Sound of BlueNote.

The band features some of the most prominent jazz musicians in the South West, recreating songs and arrangements that define the BlueNote Records sound of the 1950s and 60s. The Sound of BlueNote comprises leader Terry Quinney (saxophone), Andy Urquhart (trumpet), Phil Doyle (piano), Ben Taylor (bass), Andy Chapman (drums) and guest Mark Nightingale on trombone.

Tickets £18. To book, please email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 26 February at 7.30pm at Charlton Horethorne Village Hall, there’s a chance to see Flats and Sharps, one of the UK’s most prestigious Bluegrass outfits. Their shows include a wide variety of influences, from a fresh and modern outlook on footstomping Bluegrass material 23

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through to their powerful and well-crafted original songs; their music perfectly blends strong harmonies and solos.

The group’s incredible stage presence and energy create an evening that’ll have the audience dancing, laughing and singing along in no time.

Bar with card facilities available.

Limited numbers. Tickets £10.

To book, call 01935 814199, email jb@classicmedia.co.uk or visit www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 26 February at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, experience the music of The Moody Blues live in ‘Go Now!’. Gordy Marshall (toured and recorded with The Moody Blues for twenty-five years) and Mick Wilson (lead singer of 10CC for twenty years) recreate the elegance of a Moody Blues concert. In this show, all the classic hits are celebrated, including ‘Nights in White Satin’, ‘Go Now’, ‘Tuesday Afternoon’, ‘Isn’t Life Strange’ plus ‘Forever Autumn’ and a show-stealing rendition of ‘Eve of the War’ from Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds. Joining Gordy and Mick on stage are Tim Maple, Malcolm Moore and Patrick Duffin. Tickets £22. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Sunday 27 February at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there’s an evening of fantastic music performed by Peter Knight and John Spiers. In 2016, the organisers of FolkEast Festival masterminded one of the most intriguing and exciting collaborations on today’s folk scene – legendary fiddle player Peter Knight, part of Steeleye Span’s classic 1970s line-up, was paired with leading melodeon player and Bellowhead cofounder, John Spiers, for a special one-off performance which left audiences in awe.

Book early! Tickets £19, concessions £18. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Monday 28 February at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, Armonico Consort’s Baroque players with international violinist Rachel Podger perform The Four Seasons (Vivaldi) and Stabat Mater (Pergolesi). The Four Seasons comprises four separate 24

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. violin concertos each of which is based around a poem depicting each season, the vibrant melodies and virtuosity have made it one of the most exciting pieces of music to see and hear live. Stabat Mater is a beautiful musical meditation on suffering and redemption, written by the 26-year-old composer in the final weeks of life. Tickets £23.50, concessions £22, student/child £15. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Concerts in the West presents Alasdair Beatson and the Eusebius Quartet. Alasdair (piano) and the Eusebius Quartet comprising Beatrice Philips (violin), Venetia Jollands (violin), Hannah Shaw (viola) and Hannah Sloane (cello) will play works by Korngold, Elgar and Fauré – for the full programme, visit www.concertsinthewest. org. Tickets £18, students £5, under 12s (accompanied by a paying adult) free. To book, call the Box Office (01460 54973) or book online at www. concertsinthewest.org.

On Saturday 5 March at 7.30pm at The Dance House, Crewkerne, Concerts in the West presents Alasdair Beatson and the Eusebius Quartet. Alasdair (piano) and the Eusebius Quartet comprising Beatrice Philips (violin), Venetia Jollands (violin), Hannah Shaw (viola) and Hannah Sloane (cello) will play works by Korngold, Elgar and Fauré – for the full programme, visit www.concertsinthewest.org.

Tickets £18, students £5, under 12s (accompanied by a paying adult) free. Tickets available from Tourist Information Centre (01460 75928) or Concerts in the West (01823 252658 or book online at www. concertsinthewest.org).

On Saturday 5 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Cut Capers plus support Potts and Jammin – a ‘Chance to Dance’ event. Cut Capers is a sensational ninepiece band whose energetic live performance and infectious sound has won them a cult following on the British festival scene. Mixing a swinging vintage-style brass section with funk, soul and hip-hop, they have, over the years, established themselves as a formidable live

outfit, playing regular headline shows at venues throughout the country, and main stage performances at many of the UK’s biggest festivals. Tickets £18, concessions £17. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Friday 11 March at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, listen to traditional jazz at its best with The Dart Valley Stompers.

This band plays exciting music in traditional and New Orleans styles, and performs regularly to capacity audiences at jazz clubs and festivals in the UK and abroad. The front line features Jeremy Huggett (clarinet, tenor sax, soprano sax, and vocals), Graham Trevarton (trumpet and vocals) and Ron Milford (trombone and vocals). The hard-driving rhythm section includes Howard Williams (banjo and guitar), Tony Mann (double bass) and Chris Stockings (drums).

Guaranteed to get feet tapping and stomping – definitely a must for traditionalists!

Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 12 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, one of the most talented and prolific singersongwriters in the country, Steve Knightley, returns with a top quality show. Steve is a multiaward-winning singer-songwriter, musician and founder member of widely acclaimed folk/acoustic roots trail-blazers, Show of Hands. A constant throughout his work in his ability to root his song in geographical place, notably the West Country where he still lives. Informed by love of traditional folk song, Steve writes historically accurate songs that resonate with contemporary meaning. Certain to sell out!!

Tickets £21. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www. thedavidhall.com.

On Sunday 13 March at 3.00pm at Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, there is a Wessex Strings concert. Programme includes: Orchestral Suite in B minor (Bach), Ancient Airs and Dances (Respighi), Lyric Andante (Reger), Liebeslieder-Waltzes Op 52 (Brahms), Choros No.1 (VillaLobos) and Angelus! Prière aux anges gardiens (Liszt). Tickets £10 (cash only) from Winstone’s,

Sherborne, or £12 on the door.

Under 18s free.

On Thursday 17 March at 7.30pm at All Saints Church, Martock, there is a concert by HMS Heron Volunteer Band.

The concert includes popular classics, overtures, film music, selections from West End shows, military marches and contemporary works. Tickets £12 or £ 10, available from 07790 225357, Martock Gallery or Martock Newsagent. For more information, visit www. hmsheronband.co.uk.

On Thursday 17 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, all the way from the USA, it’s The Three Degrees! The group was formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and remains a trio with two original members, Helen Scott and Valerie Holiday.

They are known around the world for hits including ‘When will I see you again’, ‘Dirty Ol’ Man’, ‘Take good care of yourself’ and many more. The Three Degrees have been touring for more than 40 years and still tour to this day. With soulful voices, beautiful gowns and a fabulous stage show – this will be an unmissable night with these superstar legends!

Tickets £24.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil. co.uk.

On Friday 18 March at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Bath Baroque will play works by JS Bach, Vivaldi and Telemann – for the full programme, visit www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

Bath Baroque is a ten-piece ensemble comprising Lucy Hewson, Jamie Hughes, Ruth O’Shea (violins), Tim Robb (viola), Linda Stocks (cello), Bethan Foister (bass), Leslie Sheills (flute), James Watts (oboe and recorder), Neil Moore (recorder) and Jacquelyn Bevan (harpsichord) – all professional working musicians with wide orchestral experience. With their very lively style, they have rapidly established themselves as the leading Baroque ensemble in the South West.

Tickets £20. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 19 March at 7.30pm at Sherborne Abbey, join Sherborne Chamber Choir

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. with conductor Paul Ellis and an ensemble of Baroque strings and sackbuts to enjoy the genius of JS Bach. The Spring Baroque programme includes two motets and a cantata by Bach, always a favourite of the choir, and the multi-part Requiem in F by Heinrich Biber, who spent his career writing for the vast spaces and musicians of Salzburg Cathedral. Tickets £5-£18, under 18s free, available from www. sherbornechamberchoir.org.uk.

On Saturday 19 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there is a performance by acclaimed guitarist and composer, Clive Carroll. Clive has created a sound world all his own, with a signature blend of warmth and humour that belies his dazzling technical skill. His masterful compositions feature influences from the delicate cadences of Elizabethan lute classics, the imaginative eccentricity of Frank Zappa, visionary classical composers such as Bartok and Ligeti, plus hints of jazz and Delta Blues! Tickets £15, concessions £14. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Thursday 24 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, see Barbara Dickson in concert with her exceptional band as part of her extensive UK ‘Time Is Going Faster’ tour. Barbara emerged from the Scottish folk revival of the 1960s to become the biggest selling Scottish female album artist of all time.

She enjoyed chart success in the 70s and 80s with hits including ‘Answer Me’, ‘Another Suitcase in Another Hall’, ‘The Caravan Song’ and ‘I Know Him So Well’. As a multi-million selling recording artist with an equally impressive acting career, Barbara has long since cemented her status as one of the UK’s best-loved performers.

Tickets £25.50, concessions £24.

Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk.

On Friday 25 March at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there’s an evening of modern jazz from two of the UK’s top tenor sax players, Karen Sharp and Simon Spillett, together with the Craig Milverton Trio. Simon and Karen have featured in the UK jazz awards many times

over the last ten years or more.

They have worked together frequently, toured widely and have regularly played with top US stars such as Scott Hamilton and Ken Peplowski, as well as with the best UK performers.

Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Saturday 26 March at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, The Wild Murphys will set up Murphy’s Pub for ‘One Night in Dublin’, guaranteeing a glorious night of high-energy Irish music.

The multi-award-winning band features the very best traditional Irish musicians: lead singer Middi Murphy, armed with blarney, banter and an accordion, alongside Trevor Brewis on drums, Tony Davis on keys and Sophy Ball on fiddle. The Wild Murphys will be playing a thrilling mix of traditional and contemporary tunes guaranteed to have the audience’s hands clapping and toes tapping all night long.

Tickets £21. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Saturday 26 March at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, come along and listen to Edwina Hayes.

Her beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle Folk-Americana.

She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison as well as her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall. The title track of her album Pour Me A Drink was covered by Nanci Griffith who calls her ‘the sweetest voice in England’. Tickets £15, concessions £14. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

Edwina Hayes

On Thursday 31 March at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, the Hill Quartet will perform late quartet masterpieces by Mozart and Mendelssohn and two dramatic miniatures for string quartet by Puccini and Turina.

The members of the quartet are Chamber Music Fellows at the Royal Academy of Music, with a 2021 residency at Snape Maltings. Tickets £15, concessions £13.50, student/ child £12. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre. co.uk.

PERFORMANCE On Thursday 24 February at 7.30pm at North Cadbury Village Hall, John Hegley performs ‘Peace, Love & Potatoes’. This show is about his family friends, working life and everyday goings on which resonates with audiences; the poems are poignant and funny.

John began his performing career at London’s Comedy Store in 1980 and has since written a number of collections of poetry, ranging from the surreal through the humorous to the personal and emotional.

There are a number of recurring themes, notably glasses, dogs and reminiscences of his childhood in Luton. Suitable 12+. Tickets £10. To book, call 01963 440338 or visit www. takeart.org.

On Thursday 24 February at 8.00pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, multi-award-winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili is on stage and bringing back ‘The Good Times’. Intelligent, always provocative, entertaining, Omid’s legendary stand-up performances are a captivating comedy masterclass. His credits range from Hollywood films to television and the West End stage. Suitable 16+. Tickets £26.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil. co.uk.

On Saturday 26 February at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, John Hegley performs ‘Peace, Love & Potatoes’. This show is about his family friends, working life and everyday goings on which resonates with audiences; the poems are poignant and funny.

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John began his performing career at London’s Comedy Store in 1980 and has since written a number of collections of poetry, ranging from the surreal through the humorous to the personal and emotional.

There are a number of recurring themes, notably glasses, dogs and reminiscences of his childhood in Luton. Suitable 12+. Tickets £12, concessions £11. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www. thedavidhall.com.

On Thursday 3 and Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, comedy legends Jasper Carrott and Alistair McGowan split the bill with a night of comedy stand-up and impressions.

Drawing on their wealth of experience they present a show of pure laughter and entertainment that is not to be missed. Tickets £31. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at Nether Compton Village Hall, near Sherborne, the Notnow Collective theatre company performs ‘Pepper and Honey’.

Croatian-born Ana, determined to make the UK her home, is haunted by the voice of her Grandma. As Grandma bakes traditional pepper biscuits, believed to bring a loved one back home, will this be enough to be reunited with Ana? What is the meaning of home? Live baking is intertwined with a story of what it is like to settle in a different country, leaving

Spring Baroque

Glorious German Baroque music from Biber to Bach, with period instrumentalists

Sherborne Chamber Choir Sherborne Baroque Players Conductor Paul Ellis

Sherborne Abbey Saturday 19 March 7.30pm Tickets £5-£18, under 18s FOC, available from

www.sherbornechamberchoir.org.uk

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and returning, and making and breaking family traditions.

Timed to perfection, a perfect Croatian pepper biscuit is baked in front of and with the help of the audience. Tickets £10, under 18s £5, family ticket £25. To book, call 01935 815033 or visit www.artsreach. co.uk.

Pepper and Honey On Friday 4 March at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, turn back the clock to 1995 and be prepared to sing loud and proud in ‘Brit Pop Live’, a theatre show unlike any other! The 90s, the clothes, the scene and the sounds, it’s all here. Oasis to Blur, Ocean Colour Scene to Pulp, Suede to Kula Shaker – the sounds that shaped a generation. Tickets £20. Book online at www.sturexchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Sunday 6 March at 3.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, come along for ‘Tea with William Barnes’. Dialect poet William Barnes relished the country dances, folksongs and carols of Dorset, and often wrote about community celebrations, where music was a key part of the proceedings.

This spring the Ridgeway Singers and Band, led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries and supported by The William Barnes Society and Artsreach, will celebrate the rich dialect of Dorset through music, song and poetry as they invite audiences to ‘Tea with William Barnes’.

Ticket price (£12) includes a Dorset cream tea. Book online (at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or www.artsreach.co.uk) or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Wednesday 9 March, Charity Theatre Trips is offering 26

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. a fundraising coach trip to Bristol Hippodrome to see an evening performance of ‘The Lion King’. Pick-up points are Curry Rivel, Langport, Somerton, Street, Keinton Mandeville and Shepton Mallet; see website for departure times.

Tickets £78/£108. Book online (www.charitytheatretrips.com), by email (charitytheatretrips@ btinternet.com) or by phone (01458 273085). Charity Theatre Trips has taken local folk to 262 major shows at Bristol Hippodrome since its launch in 2004, raising over £66,000 for local charities.

From Wednesday 9 to Saturday 19 March at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, YAOS productions present ‘Kinky Boots the Musical’.

Young Charlie Price reluctantly inherits his father’s struggling shoe factory and must save the family business from bankruptcy. Along comes Lola, a fabulous drag performer, who needs sturdy stilettos for her act. Against all odds, Lola turns out to be the one person who can help Charlie. As they work together to ensure the factory becomes a success, they soon realise they can change people’s opinions and therefore change the world. Performance dates and times vary, so please check the website. Tickets £20, concessions £18. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

From Monday 14 to Saturday 19 March at 7.45pm at The Swan Theatre, Yeovil, is a performance of Agatha Christie’s ‘Go Back for Murder’.

After a wrongly convicted woman dies in prison, it is up to her daughter to recreate the scene of the crime and exonerate her memory. By studying each suspect’s testimony and the various inconsistencies between them, the drama arrives at a disturbing and terrible truth. Without doubt, a Christie classic! Tickets £12, concessions £11. To buy online, visit www.swan-theatre. co.uk. For more information, call 07500 376031.

On Friday 18 March at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Multi Story Theatre Company performs ‘Hefted’.

This play is told through nine stories embedded in the landscape, history and psyche

of rural life, presented by four actors who conjure a score of characters between them, interspersed with song and a spectacular soundscape. All nine stories explore the notion of being ‘hefted’ – deeply connected to the land. The audience watches from two sides of the playing area: watching the watchers as well as the action. Suitable 14+ only. Tickets £12, concessions £11. Tickets available from The David Hall (01460 240340, www. thedavidhall.com) or online at www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 19 March at 7.30pm at Chilthorne Domer Village Hall, Multi Story Theatre Company performs ‘Hefted’.

This play is told through nine stories embedded in the landscape, history and psyche of rural life, presented by four actors who conjure a score of characters between them, interspersed with song and a spectacular soundscape. All nine stories explore the notion of being ‘hefted’ – deeply connected to the land. The audience watches from two sides of the playing area: watching the watchers as well as the action. Suitable 14+ only.

Ticket price (£17.50) includes a hot supper. Tickets available from 01935 840200 or online at www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 19 March at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, come and join one of the greatest party’s in town as ‘Forever in Blue Jeans’ celebrates many happy and successful years on the road. A perfect feast of entertainment with superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in country music and rock ‘n’ roll’. This bighearted show includes songs from Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, plus many more. Tickets £22, concessions £20. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

From Monday 21 to Saturday 26 March at 7.30pm at the Sherborne Studio Theatre, Amateur Players of Sherborne present ‘Educating Rita’ by Willy Russell, directed by Graham Smith. The play follows the relationship between Rita (whose real name is Susan), a 26-year-old working class hairdresser from Liverpool,

and Frank, a middle-aged university lecturer, during the course of a year. The two have an immediate and profound effect on one another. Tickets £10/£12 available from www. aps-sherborne.co.uk or 07786 070093.

On Friday 25 March at 7.30pm at Chetnole Village Hall, near Sherborne, award-winning comedian George Egg presents his unique and utterly absurd comedy show ‘DIY Chef’, packed with ingenious live cooking and laugh-out-loud stand-up. On doctor’s orders, George must change his diet, so his family have banned him from the kitchen and sent him to the shed. But George simply must keep cooking, and this unstoppable urge leads to inventive creations, innovative solutions and some seriously tasty food. Funny and inspiring, expect power tools, gardening equipment and office supplies to be repurposed and abused.

Bar available. Recommended 14+. Tickets £10. To book, call 07966 177789 or 01935 873555 or book online www.artsreach. co.uk.

George Egg – DIY Chef On Friday 25 March at 7.30pm at Penselwood Village Hall, Wincanton, see Hannah Kumari in ‘ENG-ER-LAND’. In 1996, 13-year-old Lizzie went to her first football game, Coventry v Manchester City, and fell in love with the beautiful game that day. She has been obsessed ever since. Then something happens to make her question her place in the stands. ‘ENGER-LAND’, written by Hannah, is an energetic play about ‘team’ identity: it blends storytelling, dance and music with themes of racism and lad culture.

Supported by The Football Supporters’ Association and with public funding from Arts Council. Tickets £8, available from 01747 840680 or online at www.takeart.org.

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.

On Sunday 27 March from 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Acoustic Night. Petherton Arts Trust encourages budding artists of all genres to come to The David Hall and perform on a professional stage. Everyone has the opportunity to deliver for 10 to 15 minutes with full PA and lighting. Please prebook a performance slot or seat – don’t walk up on the night.

To attend as a performer or audience member, email Chris Watts at folk@chriswatts.org or call 07715 501157. Suggested donations: performer £1, audience member £2. Please pay on the door.

On Sunday 27 March at 8.00pm at Norton-subHamdon Village Hall, there is a performance of ‘Josephine’.

Josephine Baker, the little girl from Missouri, became a twentieth-century icon – dancer, actor, spy and civil rights campaigner. Almost 50 years after her death, Café Josephine, a down-at-heel New York diner dedicated to her memory, faces closure. But nobody remembers Josephine – and she can’t allow that! With an inspired score, Charleston dancing and a hatful of historical figures, ‘Josephine’ follows one woman’s incredible journey from the St Louis slums via the bright lights of Paris onto the world stage. Suitable age 8+. Tickets £12, child £6. Tickets available from the village shop, www.takeart.org or John Bailey (01935 881227).

radio career includes six series of Ayres on the Air and many appearances on Just a Minute, and she is honoured to have appeared twice on Desert Island Discs. Tickets £27.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

On Thursday 31 March at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, it’s Ed Gamble with his brand new comedy show ‘Electric’.

After a sell-out tour of his house in 2020 (extended into 2021 due to popular demand), he is charged up and ready to flick the switch on another night of attention seeking. Ed has appeared on Mock the Week (BBC2), Live at the Apollo (BBC), The Russell Howard Hour (Sky), QI (BBC2), Would I Lie to You? (BBC1) and Sunday Mornings on Radio X alongside Matthew Crosby. Suitable age 14+. Tickets £21.50. Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk.

Ed Gamble – Electric

Josephine On Wednesday 30 March at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, there’s an evening with Pam Ayres. Pam has been making the nation laugh for almost five decades.

She will be performing a selection of poems and stories, old and new, from her many books, including her latest, Pam Ayres on Animals. As well as regular TV appearances, Pam’s

Every first and third Monday from 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, come along for a Jazz Jam. These informal sessions generally involve a group of a dozen or so jazz-minded individuals of varying levels of ability. All instruments are welcome, as are vocalists.

Give it a go, or just come and listen. £3 per session. For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com.

Michael Loader for a hum and a buzz, buzz, buzz on a Bee Hunt, as he tells the story of a tireless worker bee looking for late autumn nectar. And he’ll need some help searching the grounds for signs of pollen and early buzzing bees! Michael tells an uplifting story of the abundance and generosity of nature – the moon, apple orchards and blossom – en route to the honeypot ending.

Suitable for 4-8 year olds.

Pre-booking not required: entrance is included with any valid entrance ticket. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

Every Tuesday from 10.00am to 10.30am at Sherborne Library, there’s a fun ‘Story Time’ session for children under 5.

Booking is essential, so please call 01935 812683.

On Saturday 19 March from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Sherborne Library, there is a free themed crafts session ‘Spring into Spring’ for children aged 4+.

Booking is essential – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

2022 Children’s Short Story Writing Competition Organised by Yeovil Community Arts Association (YCAA) and Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust (YTCST), this competition is open to year 5 and 6 pupils attending a South Somerset primary school or living in the South Somerset area. Write a short story of up to 500 words on the theme of ‘Discovery’ – an object, a truth, a secret, a new land, a species, a friend, a technology, a way of living – the possibilities are endless! Free to enter. The winning youngsters will receive either £30 or £15 in book tokens, and their school will receive £250 in book tokens and an additional prize donated

by YTCST. Entries must be received by Friday 4 March 2022. Forms and further details are available from the www. yeovilarts.co.uk or by emailing childrenscomp@yeovilarts. co.uk.

On Sunday 20 March at 10.00am at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, there is a ‘BSO On Your Doorstep: Time Together’ event – a magical sensory session for babies and new parents to experience music together.

From bouncy time to sleepy time, musicians from the BSO will lead parents and babies on a fun, supportive journey of songs and music. Music making will be followed by a special interactive concert for young listeners by the BSO musicians. Come along for beautiful music, songs and fun!

Older siblings are welcome to watch and listen. Suitable age 0 to 3 years. Tickets £6.50, child £3.50, babes in arms free. Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk.

Every Friday from 10.00am to 10.30am at Sherborne Library, it’s ‘Rhyme Time’ – songs and rhymes for children under 5.

Booking is essential, so please call 01935 812683.

Every Saturday from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at Sherborne Library, come along for some ‘Lego Fun’. The library supplies the Lego; the children supply the imagination!

CHILDREN On Thursday 24 February at 11.30am and 1.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, join 27

MOVIES ARTS

MOVIES AROUND THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES DEATH ON THE NILE (12A)

Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short. This tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy features a cosmopolitan group of impeccably dressed travellers, and enough wicked twists and turns to leave audiences guessing until the final, shocking denouement. Starring Kenneth Branagh, Tom Bateman and Annette Bening.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Monday 14, Tuesday 15, Wednesday 16 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

FACES PLACES (12A)

In 2017, the year of her 90th birthday, the late and iconic film-maker Agnès Varda undertook an unexpected collaboration with the French street-artist known as JR when the pair embarked on a road trip in his specially-adapted van. Together they explored the villages and small towns of rural France and met its residents - all the while creating large-scale murals across unconventional locations. The documentary is a heart-warming insight into unnamed communities, recorded in Varda’s typically playful and tender manner.

SHOWING AT Batcombe on Friday 18 March, Jubilee Hall, 7.45pm. For information about Batcombe Film Society and for guest tickets, call 01749 850307.

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.

KING RICHARD (12A)

This film follows the journey of Richard Williams, a determined father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time. Driven by a clear vision of their future and using unconventional methods, Richard (Will Smith) has a plan that will take Venus and Serena Williams to the global stage as legendary icons. The profoundly moving film shows the power of family, perseverance and unwavering belief as a means to achieve the impossible.

SHOWING AT Hardington Mandeville on Thursday 24 February, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores (01935 862363) or £6 on the door.

Norton-sub-Hamdon on Tuesday 8 March, The Lord Nelson, 7.30pm. Tickets from 01935 881227.

South Petherton on Friday 25 March, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

West Camel on Friday 25 March, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.

Yetminster on Tuesday 1 March, Jubilee Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. Advance tickets: Spar Shop. Contact: 07770 806990.

MINARI (12A)

Set in the 1980s, a Korean-American family moves to an Arkansas farm in search of its own American dream. Amidst the challenges of this new life in the strange and rugged Ozarks, they discover the undeniable resilience of family and what really makes a home. Starring Steven Yeun, Yeri Han and Academy award-winner YuhJung Youn.

SHOWING AT Crewkerne on Friday 25 February, Wadham School, 7.30pm. Membership £20. Visitors £5 per film. Contact: 07749 614048.

MOTHERING SUNDAY (15)

It is Mother’s Day in 1924. Mr and Mrs Niven give their housekeeper, Jane, the day off, as the couple are going to their neighbour’s house to celebrate his engagement. The truth is Jane and the neighbour, Paul, have been having an affair for some time. Jane secretly plans to meet with the man she loves before he leaves to marry another woman. Starring Colin Firth, Olivia Colman, Odessa Young and Josh O’Connor.

SHOWING AT Sturminster Newton on Thursday 24 March, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01258 475137.

28

MR JONES (15)

In 1933, Welsh journalist Gareth Jones travels to Ukraine, where he experiences the horrors of a famine. Everywhere he goes he meets henchmen of the Soviet secret service who are determined to prevent news about the catastrophe from getting out. Stalin’s forced collectivisation of agriculture has resulted in misery and ruin. Starring James Norton, Vanessa Kirby and Peter Sarsgaard.

SHOWING AT Ilminster on Saturday 26 March, Warehouse Theatre, 7.45pm. Annual membership £24. Donation requested from members’ guests. Contact: 01460 52285.

NIGHTMARE ALLEY (15)

An ambitious young carny (travelling carnival employee) with a talent for manipulating people with a few wellchosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is. Starring Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett and Toni Collette.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Thursday 3 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

Yeovil on Saturday 5 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

NOMADLAND (12A)

After losing everything in the Great Recession, Fern (Frances McDormand), a woman in her sixties, packs her van and embarks on a journey through the American West, exploring a life outside of conventional society as a modern-day nomad.

SHOWING AT Ilminster on Saturday 5 March, Warehouse Theatre, 7.45pm. Annual membership £24. Donation requested from members’ guests. Contact: 01460 52285.

NO TIME TO DIE (12A)

Bond is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica after leaving active service. However, his peace is short-lived. His old CIA friend Felix Leiter shows up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. Starring Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas, Ralph Fiennes, and Rami Malek.

SHOWING AT Sturminster Newton on Thursday 24 February, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01258 475137.

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.

PARASITE (15)

Greed and class discrimination threaten the newly formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the destitute Kim clan. An award-winning original dark comedy about class struggles.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 23 March, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, Swan Theatre members £4, guests £5. www.cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.

PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE (15)

In eighteenth-century France, young painter Marianne is commissioned to do the wedding portrait of Héloïse without her knowing. Therefore, Marianne must observe her model by day to paint her portrait at night. Day by day, the two women become closer as they share Héloïse’s last moments of freedom before the impending wedding. Starring Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 23 February, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, Swan Theatre members £4, guests £5. www.cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.

SING 2 (U)

Can-do koala Buster Moon and his allstar cast of animal performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet. There’s just one hitch: they first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star – played by legendary music icon Bono, making his animated film debut – to join them.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Saturday 26 February, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

Yeovil on Sunday 27 February, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

SPENCER (12A)

The marriage of Princess Diana (Kristen Stewart) and Prince Charles (Jack Farthing) has long since grown cold. Though rumours of affairs and a divorce abound, peace is ordained for the Christmas festivities at the Queen’s Sandringham Estate. There’s eating and drinking, shooting and hunting. But this year, things will be profoundly different. Spencer is an imagining of what might have happened during those few fateful days.

SHOWING AT Hardington Mandeville on Thursday 24 March, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores (01935 862363) or £6 on the door.

MOVIES

STILLWATER (15)

Bill Baker (Matt Damon), an American oilrig roughneck from Oklahoma, travels to Marseilles to visit his estranged daughter (Abigail Breslin), in prison for a murder she claims she did not commit. Confronted with language barriers, cultural differences, and a complicated legal system, Bill builds a new life for himself in France as he makes it his personal mission to exonerate his daughter.

SHOWING AT West Camel on Friday 25 February, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.

SUPERNOVA (15)

Sam (Colin Firth) and Tusker (Stanley Tucci), a musician and a novelist, partners of twenty years, are travelling across England in their old camper van visiting friends, family and places from their past.

Since Tusker was diagnosed with earlyonset dementia two years ago, their time together is the most important thing they have.

SHOWING AT Crewkerne on Friday 25 March, Wadham School, 7.30pm. Membership £20. Visitors £5 per film. Contact: 07749 614048.

THE BEATLES: GET BACK – THE ROOFTOP CONCERT (12A)

This theatrically exclusive piece will present an overview of The Beatles’ career from 1956 up until the rooftop concert in 1969 and the entire unforgettable final concert, followed by The Beatles listening to some of their own recordings. The piece wraps up with 8 minutes of credits, which also includes additional footage of recording sessions for Get Back.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 2 March, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.

THE FRENCH DISPATCH (15)

This film brings to life a collection of stories from the final issue of a fictional American magazine, The French Dispatch, published in Ennui-Sur-Blasé, a fictional twentieth-century French city. Starring Adrien Brody, Tilda Swinton, Léa Seydoux and Bill Murray. An eccentric delight from the director of The Grand Budapest Hotel, Wes Anderson.

SHOWING AT Milborne Port on Friday 18 March, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Advance tickets £5 available from 1 March from Wayne Pullen, Butcher, or £6 on the door. Contact: 01963 251217.

South Petherton on Friday 11 March, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

THE LAST BUS (12A)

An elderly man, Tom, whose wife had just passed away, uses only local buses and his free bus pass on a nostalgic trip to carry her ashes all the way from John O’Groats to Land’s End, where they originally met.

Unbeknownst to Tom, his journey captures the imagination of the local people that he comes across and ultimately becomes a nationwide story. Starring Phyllis Logan, Timothy Spall, and Grace Calder.

SHOWING AT Halstock on Saturday 19 March, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50 from Halstock Shop or on the door. Contact: Tony Hill 01935 892485.

THE PEBBLE AND THE BOY (15)

The story follows a 19-year-old from Manchester who embarks on a journey to Brighton, the spiritual home of the Mods, on an old Lambretta scooter left to him by his father. The film is a celebration of Mod culture and fashion, and features music by Paul Weller and The Jam. Starring Jesse Birdsall, Max Boast and Rick S Carr.

SHOWING AT Kingsbury Episcopi on Tuesday 1 March, Community Centre, 7.30pm. Tickets £5.

Contact: 07964 294230.

South Petherton on Friday 25 February, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

29

MUSIC

Music Gigs All Music Gigs are FREE entry unless mentioned.

FEBRUARY

25 Ross Kirk, Rock Covers, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm 26 AC/ZZuk, AC/DC & ZZ Top Tribute Band, The 94 Club, Yeovil, 9.30pm Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, The Preston, Yeovil, 9.00pm

MARCH 4

The Uptown Cats, Rockabilly, Yeovil Rock 'n' Roll Club, 9.00pm

5

Chris Banderas, Classic Rock, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm Not Like The Others, Covers, The Old Barn Club, Yeovil, 8.30pm.

Non-members £2

12 ReD, Rock/Pop, The Old Barn Club, Yeovil, 9.00pm.

19 AC/ZZuk, AC/DC & ZZ Top Tribute Band, The Lord Nelson, Nortonsub-Hamdon, 9.30pm Flic Keirle and Bill Osborn, 60s to 90s Covers, The Preston, Yeovil, 9.00pm 25 Ian Valentine, 60s to Present Covers, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm 26 Chill, 60s to 90s Covers, White Hart Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm Lewis & The Sound of the Suburbs, Ska/2-Tone, The Old Barn Club, Yeovil, 9.00pm.

Unknown Identity, Covers/ Originals, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm

THE DAY I MET PAUL MCCARTNEY

By Steve Haigh, Station Manager, Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM I’ve learned never to ignore a ringing phone…

Not since I answered a call to the BBC Leeds newsroom that led to one of the biggest scoops of my reporting life. It was 9 February 1971 6.30pm and everyone had left work or was in the pub and I too was about to leave for the day. I thought if I pick up the phone I could be stuck all night sorting things out – then, I thought – no, this is the news-desk phone and it might be important.

So, I answered the call and I’m glad that I did because it led to the first interview with Paul McCartney since the break-up of The Beatles. It was someone ringing the radio station to say they'd seen Paul McCartney in a Leeds hotel – I was not entirely convinced they’d spotted the real Macca as he’d been out of the public eye three years, living on the Mull of Kintyre. But curiosity got the better of me and I grabbed a tape recorder and headed for the Leeds Metropole to investigate.

I found a waiter who told me that, yes, a gent named Paul McCartney was in the hotel. He was in the restaurant with a lady friend, he said. Please give him this Radio Leeds card and say there’s a BBC reporter who would like to do an interview, would he be interested? A few moments passed and then amazingly Paul McCartney with wife Linda appeared from the restaurant.

My abiding memory is of Linda dancing around the room and interrupting the interview with the words ‘Give Ireland Back to the Irish’, which was the title of the first Wings record. The BBC had banned the song on political grounds so when it came to broadcasting my interview, references to the ‘Give Ireland Back to the Irish’ had to be edited out. Eight minutes of the interview got edited but four minutes was broadcast across the BBC and I’m pleased to say the audio has been included in the official Beatles archive at the British Library.

I can’t promise that you will get to meet someone as famous as Paul McCartney the next time you pick up a ringing phone no one else answers but don’t ignore the call… because you never know where it might lead.

To listen to Radio Ninesprings: Yeovil and South Somerset 104.5 FM

New Local Radio Station for Yeovil and South Somerset

I'm relaunching myself with a new band called Wings, Paul said in his unmistakable Liverpool accent. Linda and I are back on the road. It was definitely the real Macca. We found a room to record in and I got the first interview with Paul McCartney following the break-up of the Beatles, and his first public announcement about his new band Wings.

R ADIO 104.5 FM 30

Earlier that day, he’d played a gig at Nottingham University and the following day was due to play at York University. It became known as the Wings University Tour and it marked the relaunch of Paul’s great career.

In our chat, he talked openly about how unlikely it was that the Beatles would ever reform. The interview caused a storm. Back then there were no mobile phones so quotes from my interview were used in all newspaper reports. It was a world exclusive.

Chard/Ilminster 107.6 FM

Wincanton/Bruton 103.3 FM To listen online: www.radioninesprings.com

Listen on Smart Speakers: say: ‘Alexa enable the Radio Ninesprings skill’ thereafter: ‘Alexa play Radio Ninesprings’ Radio Ninesprings can also be heard on Amazon TV

SPRINGS

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

You can’t get more Local!

MOTORING MOVIES

THE PITFALLS AND JOYS OF THE DISCOVERY!

By Tim Saunders, Motoring Correspondent A standing start to 60mph in a shade over six seconds and a mild electric hybrid are not something I usually associate with a Land Rover. Both of these achievements come with the Discovery S D300; a massive and capable 4x4. There are even seven seats.

Due to a lack of computer chips, car manufacturing has really suffered; far fewer cars have been made and sold as a result.

Yet this brand-new striking bronze example is delivered to my door on a lorry. We all enjoy watching it being offloaded with such precision. ‘I’m from the diplomatic corps,’ the driver informs me. ‘I usually work with politicians etc. but it’s quiet at the moment so I thought I’d deliver this to you.’ It is indeed a tough life being a humble journalist.

I try to reposition this beast on my sloping driveway with the children in the rear – probably not a great idea but this is my life. Lots of concentration is required especially when the sensors emit such ear-piercing sirens, which really are way too loud and I can’t figure out how to quieten them down. They don’t like the lavender bushes on the left or my wife’s car on the right; both too close for their liking but you could easily squeeze a postman in either side.

heated windscreen or the air con on. Give me a knob like the one to turn the radio on and adjust the volume. Sadly all this technology is just too much; easily distracting the driver from his primary role of driving safely. As it is quite wide, extra care is necessary. Fortunately, my wife is on hand to deal with all this nonsense but try as she might she can’t quieten the loud sat nav speaker who insists on saying ‘modorway’. Also, the windscreen does mist up when it’s raining – there are fine wires running through it that carry out that all important demisting function. But this type of screen is annoying. If I’m not careful I find myself focussing on these wires. Give me a clear screen.

Although the glovebox seems a little flimsy for a £63,000 vehicle, a supremely comfortable existence is enjoyed by all occupants, even those in the third row. The massive centre armrest in the front allows my wife to sit with her head resting on her hand. ‘I never normally travel like this,’ she says. ‘But you can do it in the Landy.’ Oh Landy, I better watch out, hadn’t I? When cars get nicknames they have already got under the skin. It’s a smooth operator for sure.

Operating that third row of seats is a doddle, too. Henry (5) insists on sitting at the far back. ‘Come on Dad, let’s see You look down on BMW X5s how it works,’ he urges. Pulling and Audi Q8s – as it should be. the second row forward allows But the temperature controls access to the third row; each seem to have been designed seat effortlessly pulled up from with a farmer in mind. Indeed the boot floor, where they sit Jeremy Clarkson will no doubt snugly if not required, giving be at home here but I don’t a large boot space. It’s all very feel comfortable having to quick and easy.

Brewers Garage.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2020 14:23 Page 1 push the screen hard to get the

Founder and editor of ‘Travel & motoring magazine’, Tim Saunders is an advanced motorist and journalist.

He has always been passionate about motoring and regularly reviews cars from the leading manufacturers.

FACTS AT A GLANCE Land Rover Discovery S D300

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31

LIFESTYLE

INSPIRATIONS FOR THE CURIOUS SHOPPER

By Dawn Woodward, The Emporium, Yeovil

It’s a lovely time of year in the shop and we’re all looking forward to brighter, warmer days and starting to really get back into the swing of shopping.

Princes Street is looking beautiful with its mix of independent shops blending with the cafe culture… it’s like a breath of fresh air! Join us for a coffee, alfresco if you like, we have pavement tables and outdoor seating, there’s nothing like watching the world go by.

Inside The Emporium, our everchanging selection of goods awaits you and we really do have some great pieces on offer! Whether it’s antiques, interior accessories, fashion, collectables or gifts, there’s bound to be something that captures your imagination. We had five or six new businesses launch in February, so it’s definitely time to come in for a visit.

Featured Traders Featured traders this month are both artisan/makers: Wallis Creations with his individually handmade lighting, all created from scrap motor parts, and Artisan Steel And Timber with his collection of handmade steel and timber shelving. We are so proud to have both 32

these traders selling at The Emporium.

Alternatively, why not buy an afternoon tea voucher to give?

Trade with us?

If you’re considering having your own shop, please contact us to learn about our options for selling at The Emporium.

We’d be happy to meet to discuss your requirements and answer your questions. Or take a look at our website for some details and prices.

Events Have you taken a look at our website recently? The Events section is filled with many great nights that we’ve planned; lots of fabulous occasions and memorable evenings await us this year.

Cafe The Emporium Cafe is abuzz with excitement! Their brandnew Brunch Menu has just launched and offers one of the best breakfast/brunch experiences around! It’s lovely to see so many customers brunching, the perfect way to start the day.

Mother’s Day is fast approaching and our Afternoon tea is available to book between Saturday 19 March and Saturday 2 April.

You can also order a Take Away Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea during the same period, see our website to place your order.

First up: An Evening with Jorden Lindsay Performing a mix of popular covers and his own originals, Jorden puts on a positively toe-tapping evening of music, alongside The Emporium Cafe's signature music night menu and licensed bar.

Thursday 3 March. Doors 7pm.

Tickets £8. Licensed bar and supper menu (not included in ticket price).

Or later this month: Ssshh! Secret Acoustic Folk Supper An amazing evening of live music and supper, a collaboration with BearCat Collective – acoustic sets from a variety of hand-picked, quality musicians. Thursday 24 March. Doors 7pm. Tickets £8.

Licensed bar and supper menu (not included in ticket price).

Contact us in the usual ways to book your tickets.

Contact us as always in the following ways: Phone: 01935 411378 Email: info@theemporiumyeovil.co.uk Website: www.theemporiumyeovil.co.uk Visit: The Emporium, 39 Princes Street, Yeovil, BA20 1EG

FOOD & DRINK

A VINTNER’S TALE (ACT 2, SCENE VI) Peter Law, Chairman and MD at Wine Wizzard in Castle Cary, continues with his fascinating tales of life in the wine trade…

Firstly, a big thank you to all our many existing and new customers for all the support and custom over the last, difficult year.

I have always been interested in art and would like to have been an artist myself, but lacked the talent. However, I regard the making of good wine as an art form – another reason why I became a wine merchant in the 1960s.

My first wife is a painter and I met David Hockney who was sitting in the row behind me with a friend of mine, stroking my hair, much to the concern and annoyance of my wife. I hadn’t realised that the private cinema in Old Compton Street, Soho, was what today would be called a gay cinema! He is and was then a great painter.

Amongst many others, I met Bridget Riley, John Hoyland, Barry Fantoni (Private Eye and That Was the Week That Was), and Patrick Procktor. At the time (60s) I shared a pub in Islington with Willy Rushton (That Was the Week That Was and co-founder of Private Eye). The pub was always great fun. For younger readers, this was the beginning of modern satire. There was much irreverence and mostly harmless fun followed by the hippy times when it really did look like ‘the times are a-changing’.

This was the era when I was No.2 in the original Oddbins.

On a wine buying trip in the early !970s, I visited the Fondation Maeght in the hills above Nice where I met Joan Miro, a small man stepping out of a very large Rolls Royce, killing himself laughing. I don’t speak Spanish so we conversed in French and I asked him what was so funny and he replied that he couldn’t believe that

people were paying so much money for his ‘arts plastiques’ phallic sculptures. Many works by Alexander Calder were on display and while a recent exhibition of Calder’s work at Hauser & Wirth in Bruton was good, it was even better in the sunshine and warmth of St Paul de Vence.

My sister who had moved to Crickhowell in Wales phoned to ask for help with a fairly large birthday party for one of her children.

George Melly phoned her needing a lift as he had lost his driving licence (again); his moped wouldn’t start and he wanted to go to the pub. As my sister was too busy cooking, I went to collect him from his splendid twelfth-century house on the river Usk which he and his long-suffering wife, Diana, had bought along with the fishing rights (he was a keen fly fisherman) from the sale of some of his art collection – reportedly including a Matisse, Picasso and Paul Klee. On the way to the pub, we had a wonderfully eccentric, surrealist conversation for half an hour over a packet of biscuits!

In the 1970s, back at The Malmesbury Vintner, Howard Hodgkin (later Sir Howard) was a customer and I always enjoyed looking at his latest works when delivering to his nearby studio in Castle Coombe.

In one of our many conversations he was explaining his success in the USA. I told him that I was contemplating opening up a business there and he actively encouraged me. At the time I was enjoying huge success in the UK with a particular chateau for which I was the UK agent and thought it ideal for the US market.

As luck would have it, a customer who exported cheese to the US had a coast-tocoast distribution network in place, so we

joined forces and set up a US company.

Regrettably at the last minute, one of the sons of the chateau owner was sent to handle the US market. Unfortunately, he was a ‘chasseur des jupons’ (literally a skirt chaser) who neglected the business whilst pursuing his hedonistic lifestyle.

Surprise, surprise, it failed – he must have cost his father a fortune. Luckily I was not financially involved. Last heard of, he was running a night club in Barcelona, but that was the end of a very successful business arrangement.

At the time of writing, the world is in a rather precarious place, but being the eternal optimist, I am looking forward (amongst other things) to drinking some very good wine in the future. I have greatly missed my buying trips to mainland Europe – the younger and up-and-coming vignerons are so passionate about their skills and I always like to hear the opinions of other nationalities. I hope to resume this, this year.

We are awaiting numerous samples, mostly from France as shipments from Spain and Italy still seem to be slow. Bureaucracy is increasing here in UK, and unfortunately has to be paid for. The government is considering increasing duties dependant on the alcohol level. This will further increase bureaucracy and cost, and as a trade we are already overtaxed. It will also lead to further inflation. It is nothing new, but honesty, common sense and politics have never been happy bedfellows.

We will continue to try to find and sell properly made, good quality wines at the best prices we can. SALUD! 33

FOOD & DRINK

TRY THIS SPICY PIE!

By Khrishma Preston, The Alternative Indian

The last few weeks have been busy for me planning the foodie year ahead.

Last month I launched a mid-week curry club delivering to local villages around Crewkerne, along the A30 to West Coker.

Where I can, I try and accommodate customers with deliveries or arrange a collection point. If you are interested in joining our mid-week curry club, please keep an eye on my social media and website pages or get in touch via info@ thealternativeindian.com. We use no plastic, we limit our containers and it is all biodegradable and recyclable.

‘ConduitBoxOffer’ when placing your order.

If you are a reader of the magazine within our current catchment and would like a curry box, I can offer a 10% discount through March if you quote

•

British Pie week – www.british-pieweek.co.uk

•

National Butchers week – www.nationalbutchersweek.co.uk

I’ve have also been working on a little foodie calendar project. This will be published on the website soon. March has some interesting food weeks which have inspired this month’s recipe.

7-13 March • Food Waste Action week – www. wrap.org.uk/taking-action/citizen-behaviour-change/love-food-hate-waste/ key-campaigns/food-waste-actionweek

14-20 March • World Salt Awareness week – www. actiononsalt.org.uk/awareness •

Nutrition and Hydration week – www. nutritionandhydrationweek.co.uk

Knowing pork pies, sausage rolls and scotch eggs are often a British party staple, I started spicing up my own at home.

Here’s my recipe for spiced sausage and egg pies. The pastry recipe is fairly simple to make, but bought pastry is just as good.

I would love to hear what you think of these, so please let me know by tagging us @thealternativeindian on Instagram or Facebook.

Spiced Fennel, Pork and Egg Picnic Pie

Prep time 45 mins Cooking Time 1hr 5mins, plus chilling Serves around 10

INGREDIENTS

Pastry

Spiced filling

• 2 tsp turmeric

• Bought ready rolled puff pastry 2 x 375g

• 1 tbsp rapeseed oil, plus extra for greasing

• 4 tbsp cumin-coriander powder

Or

• 1 tbsp fennel seeds

• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

• 260g unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 525g plain flour

• 2 inch fresh ginger, minced

• Small handful of fresh coriander, chopped, (optional)

• Pinch of salt • 3-4 tbsp iced water

METHOD

• 4 cloves garlic, minced • 2 red chillies, chopped (keep seeds in for an extra kick) • 800g butcher’s sausage meat

To make the pastry Combine the butter in a bowl with the flour and salt using the rubbing method, then add just enough water to bring together and make a firm dough. Dust your surface with flour and roll out the dough away from you to make a rectangle about 1cm thick.

Fold the two short ends into the middle so they overlap. Turn the pastry by 45 degrees and repeat process up to five times. Wrap the pastry in cling film or place in an airtight container and let it rest it in the fridge for 30 minutes.

To make the spiced filling Heat the oil and sauté the fennel seeds then add the onion. Cook until they just turn translucent, then add garlic, ginger and chilli. Sauté for another minute or two (do 34

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 5 semi-boiled eggs, cooled and peeled • 1 pack local butcher’s unsmoked bacon Egg wash glaze • 1 egg, beaten • Splash of milk • ½ tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp salt or to taste • Freshly grated black pepper

not let them go brown) and then leave to cool.

In a large mixing bowl, add the sausage meat, turmeric, cumin-coriander powder, wholegrain mustard, chopped coriander leaves, garam masala, salt and pepper.

Once the onion mix is cooled add this to the mixing bowl and combine well.

To make the pie Preheat oven to 200°C or gas mark 6.

Divide the pastry in half, if made as above.

Roll out one half of the pastry on a floured surface to a rectangle 45 x 15cm (and about 5mm thick) that fits a baking tray. Flour the baking tray and lay the pastry on top. Add a layer of spiced sausage meat, leaving a little space around the outside. Put the eggs down the middle, making a little groove

with your thumb as you go for added stability. Then carefully build the remaining sausage meat around the eggs. Roll out the other half of the pastry. Brush the edges of the first sheet with egg wash glaze and lay the other sheet of pastry over the top, pressing to stick and then crimp the edges.

Now brush all over with egg wash glaze and make a few slits in the top. Between the slits, place the bacon. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up the pastry again.

Bake for 35-50 minutes. Check the sausage meat is cooked to temperature using a probe: it should be at least 71°C for 2 minutes. Once fully cooked, rest for a few minutes and serve hot, or leave to cool for a picnic. The pie can be stored in an airtight container for three days or frozen.

FOOD & DRINK

TALES FROM THE TRADING POST

By Kate Forbes

Last year we erected two marquees in the latter half of 2021 to house our Christmas stock.

Now we have decided to make use of the extra space all year round.

The larger of the two marquees is erected over our garden centre area to protect the new delivery of plants that are arriving over the next few weeks.

CHEDDAR, PICKLED WALNUT AND PENNYWORT SALAD

By Mark Hix

You can forage all the year round, and currently I’ve been picking pennywort and hedgerow garlic right next to my house. When I’m foraging on the beach I often get stopped by walkers who want to know what I’m picking - it always turns people’s heads and educates them somewhat.

When you have great ingredients you need to do very little to them. I’ve used pennywort here which is a delicious and abundant wild leaf that has everything about it that makes a great textured, attractive and flavoursome simple, winter salad, with a bit of my local Black Cow cheddar, made by Barbers where the whey byproduct is turned into Black cow vodka. Pickled walnuts are a great accompaniment to cheese and are not used enough in my opinion being regarded as an old man’s kind of ingredient – like gentleman’s relish. My larder is never without a jar or three of Opies pickled walnuts as they are a luxury but accessible culinary ingredient, even if you are wondering ‘Oh, I’ve never tried them before’.

If you want a bit more of an insight into what to pick for free then come and join me and John Wright on the 6 April at The Fox inn.

Black Cow cheddar, pickled walnut and pennywort salad Serves 4 120-150g Black Cow cheddar cheese, broken into small chunks 4 pickled walnuts, quartered (reserve the juice) A handful of pennywort or small salad leaves, washed and dried A few chive flowers For the dressing 1 tbsp pickled walnut juice 4 tbsp extra virgin rapeseed oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the smaller of the two marquees we opted to increase our ranges of food and drink throughout the shop and create a ‘pantry’ in the new marquee area housing all the everyday items that our customers are looking for, thus opening up the shelves in the rest of the shop to even more exciting new products.

The new Trading Post Farm Shop Pantry has made a huge difference to how the shop flows and allows us to display some of our previously hidden products that were lost amongst shelves overflowing with temptation.

Not much has changed in the front shop area (so far). As you come in you are welcomed by the delicious smell of freshly cooked loaves and the colourful seasonal display on our Covent Garden barrow. The zero waste refill room, toiletries and gin remain where they are.

However, when you hit the back shop everything is so much better!

On your left as you enter we now have a wall of apple crates entirely dedicated to breakfast; jams, marmalades, nut butters (so many nut butters!), syrups and cereals. Next to these are our full range of flour for every baking

occasion, gluten free, spelt, rice, stoneground and your everyday basics too.

Our chutneys, pickles and antipasti ranges grew dramatically at Christmas and as many of the new products have been so popular they are now part of our permanent range.

Our world food area, touched upon in my article last month, suddenly took on a life of its own and we now hold a vast selection of everything you could possibly need to whip up a foreign feast!

And then in to our pantry… it is so important to us that no matter how excited we get about Christmas, Easter and all the high days and holidays that we remain grounded about where we started – we are a local shop supplying our local customers with locally grown organic veg and fruit and a wide selection of everyday foods.

We are somewhere that you can come along, have a natter and do your weekly shop.

Our pantry is full of all the everyday essentials, tins of pulses, tomatoes, ready meals and fish, alongside condiments such as ketchups, mayonnaise, salad dressing and marinades. All our pasta and rice have been popped into the pantry too alongside the wide selection of oils and vinegars, mustards and sauces.

Our seasoning and baking section has also had a bit of an overhaul and not only can you now see what we actually have in stock we have also added some fantastic new lines.

There’s only one thing for it…visit us and see for yourself!

Mix the ingredients for the dressing together and season to taste. Arrange the leaves and pickled walnuts on serving plates then scatter the pieces of Black Cow in amongst them. Spoon the dressing over, and break up and scatter the chive flowers.

35

FOOD & DRINK

PUTTING THE CITRUS ZING IN GIN!

By Carl Hankey

@viper_gin

Carrying on from my previous article concerning botanicals used in gin, today we look at a very important botanical in almost all gins across the world, citrus.

@viperlondondrygin

Worldwide, more citrus fruit is grown than any other type of fruit. Citrus production surpassed that of grapes in 1991 and has never looked back. In 2008, nearly eighty million tonnes of citrus fruit were grown, representing over 65 per cent of worldwide fruit production.

Citrus has always been important in a gin’s botanical signature. The fruits are prized for their aromatic, oil-rich skins.

Their inclusion in gin often adds a bright top note. These days we use citrus fruits often, whether in cooking or enjoyed on their own. This makes them the more easily recognisable note in a gin’s aromatic character. Most citrus fruit’s primary aromatic constituent is limonene. However, the variation in the other trace components between different citrus fruits make them distinctive in a spirit.

The citrus used in the botanical recipe for gin distillation is nearly always only the peel.

This is because the fruit’s oils are concentrated in the peel.

These days, distillers have taken inspiration from the diversity of citrus fruits and have a wide range of these fruits to add to their gin.

We use lots of different citruses across our range of gins, from orange, lemon and lime to more specialist citrus fruits such as bergamot.

Bergamot is widely used in perfumes and cosmetics and is used to flavour tea to create Earl Grey. Bergamot has a warm, floral and slightly spicy character it can impart to a gin.

We also use yuzu thought to be a hybrid between Ichang papeda and Satsuma mandarin. Yuzu is sour, tart and very fragrant citrus that imparts a flavour reminiscent of bitter mandarin, orange blossom and sweet Amalfi lemon and grapefruit. However, it has its own very unique fragrance and flavour which is a bit more sour and floral then you could obtain from using lemon, mandarin and grapefruit peel in your botanical recipe.

A more unusual and not so often used citrus note for one of our gins comes from the Szechuan peppercorn which originates from northern China. We actually grow them in our garden as they are relatively easy to grow and maintain. It may also surprise you to learn that Szechuan peppercorn isn't really a

The Mitre Inn

Sandford Orcas

Nr Sherborne, DT9 4RU

01963 220271 FREEHOUSE

Allen and Cheryl welcome you with a cosy bar and great food.

Wed to Fri - Senior Citizens 2 course lunch £12.95 Sunday Roast - £11.95 Adult, £10.75 OAP and £8.25 children 2 En-suite letting rooms and Shepherds Hut Tuesday 7.00 - 10.00 Wednesday - Saturday 11.30 - 2.30, 7.00 - 11.00 Sunday 12.00 - 3.00

www.mitreinn.co.uk

36

GIN

pepper at all. In fact, the peppers are the dried red-brown berries of the prickly ash tree belonging to the citrus family of plants.

info@viperspirit.co.uk www.viperspirit.co.uk

The Szechuan peppercorn brings a fresh, zesty and aromatic character to a gin with a grapefruit/lemony scent and flavour with warming spiciness. Brilliant to use for a gin that’s interesting and different from many others in the market.

If this has sparked your interest, why not try our Viper Szechuan peppercorn gin or Viper Yuzu citrus gin?

WE ARE HIRING!

HEAD CHEF | SOUS CHEF | CHEF DE PARTIES As our current Head Chef is relocating, we are looking for a suitable replacement to take over the reins. We are also recruiting for other positions to complete the kitchen brigade as we enter the busy spring/summer period.

Working with renowned chef, food writer and restaurateur Mark Hix, this is an amazing opportunity to work with an experienced, loyal and friendly team, with plenty to learn along the way.

Our menu changes regularly using the best of seasonal produce from farmers, foragers, fishermen, or even grown in our own kitchen garden.

If you have a passion for food, drink and hospitality and looking for your next chef role, then The Fox Inn could be for you.

In return for your hard work, we are offering a competitive wage and staff benefits to include: 28 days holiday | Staff food | Service charge and tips Employee discount and complimentary meals | Pension Send your CV to jo.harris@coastalmarks.co.uk or apply online at thefoxinncorscombe.co.uk Pound Hill, Corscombe, Dorset DT2 0NS | 01935 317555 reservations@thefoxinncorscombe.co.uk

@Foxinncorscombe

TRAVEL

AUSTRALIA IS OPEN TO VISITORS...

By Heather Muir, Manager – Miles Morgan Travel, Yeovil

This month we are thrilled to bring you the news that Australia has begun welcoming fully vaccinated travellers. The borders opened back in February and as soon as the announcement was made, we saw an upsurge in enquires and bookings from customers who are eager to visit.

Miles Morgan Travel are the South West's leading Australia experts. With at least one expert in every shop, we specialise in tailor-made holidays and tours of every standard and duration whether you're simply looking for a return flight to Sydney or a complicated multi-centre trip with stopovers around the world, you are guaranteed the best possible service and advice. Our position as a specialist ensures we are always first to receive offers and reductions on all types of travel down under.

Our reputation as the South West’s leading Australia experts is growing, people are

travelling from far and wide to enjoy our free appointment service and first-hand experience to find out what this diverse and stunning part of the world has to offer.

Jon Shillito and Sharon Boon have been our resident Australia specialists in our Yeovil branch for many years and have built a strong following of regular and loyal customers and are known for their in-depth knowledge of Australia.

Jon Shillito ‘I have worked in travel, organizing trips to Australia for over 30 years and I am always determined to find the right itinerary for your trip down under. As a trained Aussie specialist, I am inspired by this great country and can help you to get the most out of your trip of a lifetime.’

Sharon Boon ‘I have travelled extensively in Australia.

One of my favourite trips included Sydney,

Brisbane and Frazer Island on an escorted tour. This was a perfect way to experience this part of Australia and the professional and friendly tour guides shared their vast knowledge of this diverse and fascinating country along the way. Everything was seamless from the meet-and-greet service at the airport on arrival, right through to the very end.’

If you are thinking of going to Australia or in fact New Zealand then please do come and see either Jon or Sharon at 2, Borough Arcade, High Street, Yeovil. Call to book a free appointment on 01935 428488 as their experience and knowledge will make all the difference to any forthcoming holiday of a lifetime.

Meet our Australia Specialists

Sharon Boon

Jon Shillito

What we can offer:

FREE Appointment Service | Tailor-made Holidays | Flights, hotels & stopovers | Escorted tours | Cruises | Campervan and car hire | Rail and coach passes | Visa Service

Contact Sharon or Jon today Phone lines open until 10pm

01935 428488

www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk

14-16 Middle Street Yeovil BA20 1LY

37

TRAVEL

A VISIT TO SHERBORNE OLD CASTLE

By Tim Saunders, Travel Correspondent Contacts are helpful in life.

That’s certainly what Roger de Caen, Bishop of Salisbury, found. His friend just so happened to be Henry, whose father was a certain William the Conqueror. When Henry became King Henry I he looked favourably upon Roger, who was promoted to King’s representative in Wiltshire.

Such a position saw him acquire great wealth allowing him the indulgence of building Sherborne Old Castle at around 1120. This grand castle was built on an earlier cemetery. It is surrounded by lovely Dorset countryside and it is possible to see the trains on the railway as we walk around the site.

Of course, as Bishop he had to have a chapel and the castle community were expected to attend it throughout each day starting at 7am and ending at 8pm. There are still some decorations present if you look carefully, although today the castle is very much a ruin.

However, there is still a small section that is under cover.

Castles are wonderful things, especially for children to run around and explore. We enter via a bridge across the moat.

‘This originally would’ve been a drawbridge,’ says Harriett (10) knowledgeably and excitedly imagining the water beneath.

We later find out that the water around the moat would have had fish in it and that guests could catch them. We spy a

38

bench, and picnic. The only drawback with this attraction is that there are no toilets on site, which means we have to get back in the car and drive to the town’s car park where there are toilets.

Back at the castle we are able to walk along the moat, which today is covered in grass. This should be a wonderful and relaxing stroll deep in the Dorset countryside, and Caroline and I are able to walk some 25 paces in blissful solitude when we realise that the children are no longer with us. We retrace our steps to find Henry nursing a nettle sting on his leg and bitterly complaining – time for another piggy back.

It is quite amazing to imagine what life would have been like all those hundreds of years ago.

We notice that pigeons have made their home at the entrance and like to walk in and out of the narrow windows.

Much later Sir Walter Raleigh was able to persuade Queen Elizabeth I to give him the lease on the castle. He set about improving it but gave up once he decided to build what is now Sherborne New Castle, behind the old castle in 1594.

We leave feeling happy to have visited and having learnt something. It’s not far from Sherborne town centre and so we park on the side of the road and mooch about. There’s a lovely old-world feel and there

are pleasingly still some shops in the high street although you can’t help noticing that even Sherborne has suffered the effects of recent times.

For more information, visit www. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/sherborne-old-castle.

Watch the videos at www. travelwriter.biz

DAY TRIPS AND SHORT BREAKS Visit our website www.bakerscoaches-somerset.co.uk for more trip information or ring 01935 428401 Salisbury for the day Royal Mint with deluxe afternoon tea*

5 April £19.50 12 April £65.00

Lynton & Lynmouth for the day 3 May £22.00 RHS Malvern Spring Show* 7 May £69.00 Lyme Regis for the day 12 May £15.00 Paignton & Dartmouth Railway with river cruise* 17 May £55.00 Exbury Gardens* 21 May £46.00 Rosemoor Garden* 26 May £39.00 Monkey World* 31 May £31.00 adult £27.50 child, children under 3 go free Bicton Park* 9 June £45.00 Slimbridge Wetland Centre* 14 June £55.00 Singin In The Rain with afternoon tea* 16 June £97.00 Bishops Palace including the Garden Festival* 18 June £35.00 Bowood House & Gardens* 30 June £45.00 RHS Hampton Court Flower Show* 9 July £74.00 Hestercombe House & Gardens* 12 July £35.00 Compton Acres & Harbour Cruise with fish & chips* 16 July £58.00 Crack The Code Short Break* 21 – 25 July £435.00 All trips marked * include attraction, theatre and afternoon tea, hotels and all meals.

We are the proud sponsers of “The Pride of Yeovil” Awards organised by CalisMedia

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

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HEALTHY WAFFLES All foods contain calories – but weightwise, some foods are far better at filling us up and keeping us full than others.

What’s more, some food and drink leave us wanting to have more and more (think chips, chocolate, wine!) so we end up eating far more calories than we ever intended. And the 'health-wise’ truth is that some calories are much less healthy than others.

That’s the genius of Slimming World’s Free Food – which is at the heart of our Food Optimising eating plan and rooted in the science of energy density (the calories per gram of food) and of satiety (how filling a food is). With Free Food, you can fill up and lose weight, eating unlimited amounts of wholesome everyday foods, such as pasta, rice, beans, lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables and plain fat-free dairy products (or alternatives).

Here’s a recipe invented by one of our amazing members.

Join us and discover the freedom for yourself – with a full money-back guarantee if you don’t lose weight!

BREAKFAST WAFFLES

…a very healthy alternative INGREDIENTS 2 eggs 100g fat-free Greek yogurt 40g oats (Healthy Extra B choice) 1 tsp sweetener METHOD Whisk eggs, add oats and yogurt, then pour into a silicone mould, and cook at 180°C for 20-30 mins (depending on your oven). I let it cook until it’s golden then turn it over onto a dish and leave it for 5 minutes before taking the mould off. Then add defrosted frozen fruit and a dollop of the same fat-free Greek yogurt.

Local groups running throughout the week in Yeovil, Ilchester and Martock Visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk for your 2022 fresh start.

ANNOUNCEMENT! NOW OPENED

South Petherton Skincare Clinic Dr Sada Goodchild Treatment of wrinkles and facial lines with muscle relaxant injections (Botox) & Dermal Fillers.

Treatment of acne, peels.

Tel: 07878814565 southpethertonskincareclinic.co.uk Church House, The Parade, South Petherton, TA13 5FD (Crown Lane entrance) To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk

39

HEALTH & WELLBEING

SIMPLE TIPS TO IMPROVE WELLBEING

SINGING IS GOOD FOR THE SOUL!

We often read about all the things we need to do to improve our wellbeing.

However, many of these things involve a lot of time and/or money! I find these simple tips below really helpful and they needn’t cost the earth.

A good sing

By Amanda Whitlock, Total Wellbeing Matters

• Do at least one thing a day that makes you happy, however small. Listen to your favourite record, phone a friend or buy yourself some flowers – anything that gives you joy.

• Never underestimate the power of a smile. Evidence has shown that smiling increases your moodenhancing hormones whilst decreasing the levels of stress hormones. In addition, when you smile your brain thinks you are happy and produces more endorphins which are the chemicals that reduce pain and stress. So, try smiling at people in the shop or on the bus – it will make you feel good!

• Try and go for a walk each day. It doesn’t have to be a trek, a simple walk around the block each day will pay dividends. Not only does it get you moving, being outside has the added benefit of giving your body a boost of vitamin D, which helps you maintain healthy bones.

• Include a period of relaxation in your day. Taking time to regularly ‘switch off’ is crucial for our health. Being in a

40

prolonged state of stress causes our body to produce more cortisol which can lead to an increased risk of illness.

• Find someone to talk to if you are feeling overwhelmed. By acknowledging your feelings and talking about them, you will be taking the first step in finding solutions to make you feel better.

By Sue Crisfield

Did you know that, apart from being fun and uplifting, singing has lots of health benefits?

• Relieves stress – singing releases serotonin and dopamine, endorphins known as ‘happy’ chemicals which boost your mood • Stimulates your immune responses, helping to fight disease and prolonging life expectancy

• Invest in experiences rather than products. Research shows that we feel more happiness when we spend money on activities such as going to live concerts, camping or spending quality time with friends and family, rather than shoes, gadgets or cars.

• Releases pain-relieving endorphins, reducing pain and increasing your pain threshold

• Stay connected with people.

In our busy lives it is easy to stop making connections with people. Reconnect with old friends, join a local group, volunteer – anything that enables you to spend time with people whose company you enjoy.

• Improves posture

• Don’t dwell on things you cannot control. Let go of the things you cannot influence and concentrate on those things that you can change.

For example, you can’t control how your boss treats you but you can control the way you react to the situation.

The most important thing is to find the things that work for you and not to feel guilty when you take time out to refresh. Selfcare is not selfish: it is essential.

• Improves sleep and can reduce snoring • Improves lung capacity and clears sinuses and respiratory tubes

• Tones facial and stomach muscles • Enhances memory for people with dementia • Helps with grief • Improves mental health, alertness and mood • Improves confidence • Helps improve speaking skills And, very importantly – the social benefits are enormous – singing with others widens your circle of friends and develops a great sense of belonging and connection Give it a try! Here are some groups you could join – you

don’t need to read music or be able to sing in tune either!

Castle Cary Community Singing Group’s Singing for Fun takes place in All Saints Church every second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 3.45-4.45pm – £1.50 and refreshments. A huge range of songs from the 1950s to 1980s, songs from the shows and popular music.

Goldies Sing & Smile are fun sessions, singing songs from the 1950s onwards – all are welcome – just a £2 donation and free refreshments, with local groups taking place in Bruton Methodist Church (BA10 0BH) on the second Wednesday of each month from 2.00-3.00pm, and in Queen Camel (Cleaveside Close communal lounge, BA22 7PR) on the third Thursday of the month from 2.00-3.00pm.

There are other Goldies Sing & Smile groups in Ilminster, South Petherton and Chard, and a new group taster session in Wheathill Close communal lounge in Milborne Port on Wednesday 16 March from 10.30-11.30am. Go to www.golden-oldies.org. uk/south-somerset.html or call 01761 470006 for more information.

For general health and wellbeing information in South Somerset, go to www. wellbeingsouthsomerset.org.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Inner Sparkle

HOW TO REST

Holistic Life Coach Essential Oils Reiki

By Tracy Frost

‘It takes courage to say YES to rest and play, in a culture where Exhaustion Is seen as a status symbol.’ Brene Brown Do you find yourself saying: I’m so tired; I can’t put one foot in front of the other; I just need to stop and sit down; I can’t think straight…

I expect most of us would respond with: I completely understand; I feel the same way.

What would our response be to someone saying: I feel so good because I take time out for me; If I don’t drink enough water each day my body feels dehydrated; Life is so much smoother when I slow down.

More than likely our response may be: It’s okay for some!

Wouldn’t it be nice to have that

Tracy Frost

Aroma Touch

07401 520794 tj.frost@live.com @tjInnerSparkle www.inner-sparkle.com

sort of time; I’m just too busy to find time to slow down.

lavender is a good choice for a calming effect.

museum, a quirky cafe and feel the creativity in the environment.

Maybe for some of us we feel we aren’t good enough, that we are hard done by, unseen, unheard?

These emotions and feelings we tend to keep to ourselves, buried from the world but not from our mind and body.

Emotional: write down how you are feeling. Ask yourself why you think you’re feeling those feelings. Write down the answers. You may be surprised at what you find out about yourself.

Spiritual: this sort of rest makes you feel that you belong, that you are seen, that you have meaning in your life. You could try yoga, tai chi, church, reading uplifting books, walking in nature.

Are we so busy we’ve forgotten how to rest and/or play? Here are some ideas for rest in different areas of our lives.

Physical: for about five minutes, purposely choose to be still.

Get comfy, lie on the sofa under a soft blanke this will give your body messages that you are slowing and resting.

Mental: to help with brain fog you could inhale or diffuse (DoTerra) Lemon essential oil, or

Social: be with the people/ person who let you feel comfortable enough to be your true authentic self, warts and all.

Sensory: audible, find sounds that are pleasing to your soul: bird song, peaceful piano, the sea, the wind.

Visual: look at pictures with calming colours and images, appreciate nature.

These are just a few ideas for adding in ‘rest’ time in small manageable ways. For me this is an ongoing practice and there are days that are easier than others. In those harder days I rely heavily on my essential oils.

Remember, we are doing these things to find our Inner Sparkle

Creative: paint, sew, play an instrument. Visit an art gallery, a

WHY USE A PERSONAL TRAINER?

By Chloe Lopez, Personal Trainer at Sherborne Sports Centre Do you want to join a gym but not sure where to start with exercising? Do you feel like you struggle to stay motivated and consistent on your own? Read these five top benefits of having a personal trainer and see if it could be for you!

A personal trainer will teach you proper form One of the most important aspects of exercise is ensuring you have correct form.

This will help you avoid injury, ensure you are engaging the correct muscles, and improve your muscular strength and endurance. This benefits you in the gym, and you’ll be able to apply this knowledge to the way you go about daily activities to avoid those unnecessary injuries!

A personal trainer can create a workout plan specifically for your needs and goals Everyone has different fitness goals: building strength, getting to a healthy weight or increasing mobility and balance.

With a personal trainer you can be

comfortable they have the experience and understanding to provide you with the best possible route to achieving your goals.

A personal trainer can give you the push you need We all have those days where the last thing you want to do is exercise and although it is important to give your body the rest when it needs it, sometimes having outside encouragement is all it takes to get you back into a positive mindset. As well as helping you through workouts, a personal trainer will ensure you are held accountable in between. They will be there for you on those days that you feel like giving up and motivate you to get back on track.

Consistency is the most import factor in achieving your fitness goals.

Personal trainers can help you work around specific issues or injuries If you are dealing with an injury, whether it has been short term or long term, your personal trainer can adapt exercises to

work around these issues and allow you to progress and achieve amazing results despite the injury having initially felt like a setback to you.

The positive impact on your mental health There is lots of research that supports the positive effect physical activity has on mental health. Exercise increases blood circulation to the brain, which helps reduce stress and improve mood and cognitive function. Your personal trainer is there to help you focus on yourself and forget about the stresses of life. They really do care about your physical and mental wellbeing, and they will be routing for your progress not only in the gym but in your personal life too.

Sounds good? Then come in and speak to us, give us a call on 01935 810548 or email gym@sherborne.org and we’ll be sure to help you achieve your fitness and wellbeing goals.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING PET HEALTH

IT’S ALL ABOUT TEAMWORK

By Peter Luscombe BVSc, PgC SAD, MRCVS

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

I’ve had the privilege of working with some great vets and nurses over my career.

But what makes a great vet in practice? I believe any vet is only as good as the team they work with. I have the good fortune of becoming the focal point of all their good work, much of it behind the scenes.

presence at the front of house. They do not have the level of medical training of other members of our team but have a good knowledge and understanding of our clients, are caring pet owners themselves and can direct you to the most appropriate service.

Our team of vets, with a range of knowledge and experience, all work together to benefit our patients. We discuss difficult cases and share ideas. With a range of special interests and attendance at courses we continue to support and motivate each other to help us all keep up to date.

Your journey through the practice starts with our receptionists and support team. Whether in person, by phone, email or through our messaging app, they efficiently and compassionately handle your enquiries and requests.

They are key in prioritising your requirements, whether they are medicines requests, seeking an appointment or identifying emergencies. Additionally, they undertake a lot of the day-to-day administration of the practice and maintain a professional and welcoming

Our qualified and trainee nurses are key to maintaining the practice in readiness for any situation and providing the care and support your pet needs when in the practice. Their role is often under-recognised as much of their work happens out of sight. As well as managing the hospital care of your pets and supporting them when they need investigations or surgery, they are also available to provide professional advice on animal care in sickness and in health.

Beyond this we coordinate with external specialists, whether they are visiting clinicians to our practice or referral to specialist centres for advanced investigations and treatments. We also have a working relationship with external laboratories, who provide us with testing beyond the in-house laboratory work performed by our nurses.

These relationships allow us to seek further specialist advice when needed.

But what about your pet? Well, the other important member of their team is you the owner, acting as their voice to tell us about their problems and signs.

You must do the talking and make decisions on their behalf.

We depend on you to help us create a practical care plan for your pet. It is important that you communicate what is possible. Will your cat take tablets easily? Can you bath your 70kg St Bernard? Are there limits to the budget?

What is your priority for your pet – a cure or managing pain and maintaining quality of life?

Beyond this we rely on you to administer treatments, monitor progress and feedback to us.

So, with all the resources we can provide, we value you as part of your pet’s team: working together to provide the best personalised care possible.

NATURE SPOT Cranes are among the most amazing birds that we have on this planet. With their large stature and loud resounding calls, cranes have appealed to mankind whenever we have met.

In more recent times, the ancient Egyptians decorated their tombs with images of cranes, the ancient Greeks domesticated cranes and there

is a Greek myth that the Greek god Mercury invented the Greek alphabet after seeing a crane fly.

A dance called ‘A Dance of the White Cranes’ is known to have been performed in China 500 bc.

Between 2010 and 2014, 93 common cranes were handreared to release onto the

Somerset Levels and Moors – doubling the UK population and helping to secure the future of the crane in the UK (The Great Crane Project Somerset).

Coming right up to date, it is good to report the crane population is extremely well stablished once again on the Somerset Levels and also now much further afield. Standing at 1.2m tall and with a wingspan

of 2.3m, it’s well worth a visit to the Levels to see these amazing birds.

Colin Lawrence, our local wildlife photographer, captured these images during this last year and confirms that 2021 was another very successful year for our local crane population.

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CARE

THE MANY FACES OF MARCH

By Tracey Warren, Stoodley and Son

March, in like a lion out like a lamb. The first buds of spring are now emerging, and my garden is aglow with daffodils nodding in the gusts of winds and the faint tips of purple crocuses are now emerging from the earth. March as many of you know was named after Mars, the Roman god of war, but March is known for many other things.

The Ides of March is the 15th and the 74th day in the Roman calendar, and was a deadline for settling debts.

In 44 bc it was the date that Julius Caesar was assassinated, stabbed to death during a meeting of the senate.

A soothsayer had foretold the assassination, warning Caesar he would be harmed before ‘the Ides of March’.

On 15 March Caesar saw the soothsayer on his way to the Pompey Theatre and goaded him ‘The Ides of March are come’ joking that he had survived the prophecy, the soothsayer replied ‘yes but not gone’.

Over 60 conspirators, organised and led by Cassius and Brutus, plotted to kill Caesar; during the senate he was attacked by Brutus and Casca and was stabbed over 23 times. After his death, Caesar’s post-mortem report was the earliest known report in history.

Following the assassination, a crowd gathered around the senate building and promptly burnt it down in anger. Mark Anthony (who was an elected consul at the time) recalled the senate and gave a speech in which he gave clemency to the assassins, and tried to pacify the mob, senators and public. This, over time, failed and many historians declared that the death of Caesar was the start of the decline of the Roman Empire.

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The seventh Monday before Easter falls in March and is also known as Clean Monday or Pure Monday. It marks the beginning of Lent for the Eastern Orthodox Church; this is similar to Ash Wednesday.

It is also a day of religious reflection, fasting and religious purification.

17 March is celebrated as St Patrick’s Day, this being the date of death of Patrick in around 461. St Patrick was a fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary. At the age of 16 he was kidnapped and taken as a slave to Ireland.

Here he became a shepherd and found his Christian calling.

He is perhaps best known for the legend of driving all the snakes out of Ireland, after they began attacking him during his 40-day fast. However, modernday zoologists have found that there have never been snakes on the Isle.

In Spain a shepherd promised March a lamb, on the condition March reduced the winds and storms to help his flock. March obliged but the shepherd refused to hand over the lamb. March then borrowed three days from April in which he caused an even greater tempest and wreaked havoc on the shepherd.

Day on the 18th, one of my favourites which is World Frog Day on the 20th and Mothering Sunday on the 27th.

But with all of these events, don’t forget to adjust your clocks on 27 March as British Summer Time begins.

March is also known for St David’s Day on the 1st, International Woman’s Day on the 8th, Global Recycling

Many people wear the traditional three-leafed shamrock to symbolise the teaching of the Holy Trinity by St Patrick.

29, 30 and 31 March are often referred to as The Borrowing Days. According to ancient Scottish folklore, they have a reputation for being the three stormiest days of the year. It is said that these three days were borrowed from April so that March might extend its power.

‘As March leads forth across the leas, the wild and windy spring’ Elizabeth Akers Allen

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HISTORY

WHY MILBORNE ‘PORT’

By Dr Lesley Wray

In spite of the story (probably apocryphal) about Lord Haw-Haw announcing the

sinking of a ship at Cold Harbour, Milborne Port, during WWII, ‘Port’ has nothing to do with the sea. It is the Saxon word for a town or market.

The word port also appears in the Somerset town of Langport which translates as long market. The suffix was not applied to Milborne until the reign of King John when, in 1212, he confirmed the town’s market, which had been the most profitable in Somerset under the Anglo-Saxons. A year later the burgesses and freemen of the town were made quit of tolls in fairs and markets at home and abroad, and it is around this time that the suffix ‘Port’ appears in written records.

The base of a thirteenth-century medieval market cross stood at the foot of North Street marking the corner of the medieval market place. It was moved to the other end of the village in 1959, since it was in the way of the traffic on the A30. During the Black Death (1348/1350) Milborne Port stopped being an important trading centre and became a struggling market town like many others. It slowly recovered and Henry IV granted Milborne Port a royal charter in 1397, to confirm the weekly market, along with an annual fair, which helped boost the local economy.

While Milborne Port never regained its status as a trading centre, the weaving

industry meant it became a thriving town, and in 1720 a market house was built with a vaulted cellar, an arcaded ground floor and a room above. In 1748 a market for grain, cattle and other wares was advertised. There was a fish market as well as the general market, and an annual fair was held in late October. This led to an incident in 1770, when on the evening of the fair day a boy threw a lighted squib, made of gunpowder, from the street into the market house. The squib fell onto a stall selling gingerbread and other cakes, so a bystander quickly grabbed the squib and threw it off the stall. Unfortunately, the squib landed on a second stall and was again thrown away from it. This time it hit a young boy in the face and burst, injuring his eye. The case went to court, where the boy who threw the squib pleaded not guilty, since he had not thrown it anywhere near the child. It was decided that, as he had initially thrown the squib and the ‘natural and probable consequence’ of this was injury to somebody, the intermediate actions did not change liability. The case is still cited in legal tomes under the law of tort. Fifteen years after the incident, the arcades of the market house had been

bricked up, and by 1791 the building was being used as a warehouse.

Slowly the weekly market died out, but an annual fair was held that, like all such events, gradually ceased to be about trade and employment and became purely for entertainment. This is now held in early June as a fete and the ‘Party at the Port.’ Hopefully, lockdowns permitting, the celebrations for the Platinum Jubilee will see it return better than ever. One good thing about lockdown was the reintroduction of a weekly market, with local traders selling locally produced food.

Long may this continue, reducing food miles and helping both residents and producers.

If you would like to know more about the history of Milborne Port, please contact mphhgroup@gmail.com for information about our meetings and the museum opening times. Or visit our website www. milborneporthistory.org.uk or join our Facebook Group, Milborne Port History and Heritage.

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WALKING

WHEN DOES A WALK BECOME A HIKE?

By Rachel Woods

As spring starts to show, you may be planning to get out and about.

Have you ever said of a journey ‘it was a bit of a hike’? Suggesting that the journey was somewhat more than a leisurely stroll. Does that mean hiking is more difficult?

Both are pleasurable; walking suggests less effort.

Wandering, ambling, strolling along with no real rush or agenda other than the act itself. We don’t tend to hike the dog, even if when we hike, they come with us.

So what does the dictionary say?

The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as ‘the activity of going for long walks in the countryside’. Thinking about that, I have never heard anyone describe themselves as going for a hike around the town.

I don’t often trust Wikipedia (since anyone can edit it) but I agree with the description shared.

‘Hiking is a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails or footpaths in the countryside. “Hiking” is the preferred term in Canada and the United States; the term “walking” is used in these regions for shorter, particularly

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urban walks. In the United Kingdom, the word “walking” describes all forms of walking, whether it is a walk in the park or backpacking in the Alps’ So hiking is a bit more purposeful? Longer maybe than a walk and with more vigour. I see a hike as when I feel the need to take my rucksack with water and a firstaid kit. If I have an OS map with me, I see my efforts as hiking rather than walking. Even if my pace is very similar.

I may walk up hills if they happen to be on my way. I live at the top of one, so they are pretty unavoidable. Hiking feels and sounds like it involves more challenge, more of a trek and something that needs more of the day set aside for it.

It requires a bit of preparation.

Great for body, mind and spirit Whichever you choose and whatever you call it, getting out and exploring under your

own steam is something that can be enjoyed by most.

We can connect with nature, breathe fresh air and explore our environment with very little required in the way of skills or equipment. It’s exercise, fresh air and an excuse to remove yourself from screen time.

All you really need is a pair of sturdy, comfortable shoes and clothing. Lightweight waterproofs and, personally, I think a hat is seriously handy, come rain or shine. If you’re going more than just around the block, a small rucksack with water, snacks, phone, etc. gets you started.

You can build on this with maps, compass and all sorts of weird and wonderful things for more adventurous walks.

This year I bought my first pair of gaiters, for the mud mostly, but haven’t had cause to wear them yet and am still working out how they go on. When it comes to maps and route planning, check out my article on navigation in last month’s edition (available at www. theconduitmagazine.co.uk).

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/TheConduitMag

An easy way to explore new routes is via organisations such as the National Trust and your local tourism offices or libraries. For route plotting, the Ordnance Survey has a wonderful online tool for around £20 per annum where you can both plan your route and then watch a virtual flythrough.

Whatever your ability, there will be a route or terrain to suit you. I’m conscious that I refer to walking here but I could suggest similar for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges. Start by recognising what’s easily accessible and what might be a challenge, then research and plan accordingly. Look out for community groups and walking groups that may be able to support you.

If you’re planning to walk more in 2022 – let me know what you’re planning by emailing rachel@coachinnature.co.uk.

I’d love to celebrate your adventures in a later article.

Go on, off you go!

@conduitmag

Bargain Hunters Corner

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

If an item/items are valued at more than £200 there will be a £6 charge. Wanted adverts are also charged at £6.

• Hanging doors

• Fitting fences and gates • Exterior lime mortaring

01935 808052

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

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

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

25 magazines, Tractor and Machinery, Heritage Commercials, photos available £20 Tel: 01460 55105 (Ilminster) Copper coal scuttle £25 Antique double-spouted copper water carrier (4-litre capacity) £45 EPNS Tea set (teapot, sugar bowl and milk jug), Georgian style £25 Vintage enamel bread bin and bowl £20 Tel: 01460 52645 (Ilminster) Pine Welsh dresser, excellent condition, H200cm x W160cm x D25/45cm, photo available, can deliver £195 Tel: 07963 951651 (Langport) Quest 1.5 litre slow cooker, 120 Watt, new in box £10 Wilko 2-tier steamer, new in box £10 AICOK citrus juicer, model SG-85W 2017, new in box £10 Tel: 01935 426404 (Yeovil) Philips CD clock radio, never used £10 Team International worktop buffet host (3-section food warmer and hot plate), never used £50 Tefal food processor, never used £50 Tel: 01935 424169 (Yeovil)

Feeling anxious?

Simple breathing exercises could help

Vax Platinum Carpet Cleaner, plus shampoo, £250 new, used once £80 Tel: 01749 813102 (Lamyatt)

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

Get a free, personalised Mind Plan and discover simple steps to look after your mental wellbeing.

Tel: 01935 478100

Search Every Mind Matters

walterwallyeovil@hotmail.co.uk

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07/05/2021 19:37

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Providing Dental Care for the Yeovil area since 1864

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Princes Street Dental Practice is 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