The Conduit Magazine - April 2022

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

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SEASONS RESTAURANT AT THE EASTBURY HAS A SPECIAL GIFT FOR YOU

Issue 253 April 2022

SEE PAGE 37 FOR MORE DETAILS

INSIDE THIS MONTH

Sherborne Abbey Festival | High energy balls! | Scrumpy fried asparagus Why you need a ‘to-don’t list’ | How to keep children active

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

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Welcome to a bumper issue of The Conduit! It has taken a while to get the magazine back to how it was looking pre-Covid, but we have definitely got there! This is all thanks to our wonderful advertisers (a growing band), our talented columnists and everyone who writes in with information for our What’s On pages and ever-expanding Arts section. This month we are celebrating the fantastic food in our region with The Eastbury’s Seasons Restaurant on the front cover, the two awards won by The Queen’s Arms in Corton Denham, plus news of the brilliant value set menus from The Clockspire in Milborne Port. There are also scrumptious recipes from Mark Hix at The Fox in Corscombe and The Alternative Indian. With Easter landing in the middle of this month, it is prime gardening time so be sure to take a look at what our expert garden columnists have to say in our gardening section. Finally keep a copy of The Conduit next to you at all times so you know exactly what to see and do in the month ahead! Happy Easter!

Contents

ASSISTANT EDITOR Julie Locke

MAY DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 8 APRIL Advertisements: MONDAY, 11 APRIL

WHAT’S ON p4-10

Info on markets, workshops & social activities

www.EB Marsh.com

EDITOR & ADVERTISING Jane Adkins

ARTS p24-32

Exhibitions, Music, Gigs & Movies

*Terms and Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply Exclusions and Radius Apply. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2021. E&OE 2021.

COOKING LOCAL L A5 v1.indd 1

11/11/2020 15:04

SHERBORNE ABBEY FESTIVAL p12-13 See what’s coming up

GARDENING p15-17

Something new this spring

FOOD & DRINK p36-40

Celebrating local food & drink!

HEALTH & WELLBEING p43-47 How good do you feel?

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

BUSINESS, FINANCE &LEGAL p18-23 Legal, finance and business advice

RACHEL’S RAMBLES p50

A different kind of spring

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

LANGPORT Volunteers required! Langport Red Cross Shop urgently needs new volunteers to help out. It need not be a huge commitment – most volunteer between once a month and twice a week – and working hours are very flexible.

Open every morning (except Sunday) from 10.00am to 12.00 noon. Do pop in one morning and give it the once-over. For further information, contact Chris Cox, group leader, on 01458 273085, 07963 689699 or cox.cj@btinternet.com.

YEOVIL On Sunday 24 April, the popular St Margaret’s Hospice Charity Cycle Ride is back – bigger and better than ever! There are brand-new routes for 2022 taking cyclists

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

4

through the beautiful Somerset scenery. Cyclists can choose either the 100-mile circular route starting at the Yeovil Hospice or the 35-mile route starting at the Taunton Hospice. The event starts at 8.00am and finishes at 6.00pm, and is sponsored by Bicycle Chain. £30 registration fee. For more information and to register, visit www.st-margaretshospice.org.uk/cycle-ride.

Ukraine SIAB Appeal Somerset-based charity, School in a Bag (SIAB), has launched an appeal to get SchoolBags to children who are having to flee their home country of Ukraine.

SIAB works with two existing charity partners, the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline Charity and Te Aud Romania, at the forefront of the Ukrainian crisis.

Through direct links with these charities, SIAB knows exactly where the SchoolBags will go and what will be required over the coming weeks/months. To donate directly or to set up a fundraiser to help raise even more, go to www.schoolinabag. org/campaign/ukraine-crisisappeal. For further information, please contact Zoë Fox on 01935 849160 or zoe.fox@ schoolinabag.org.

Yeovil Hospital Charity Appeal The work has not yet started on the dedicated Breast Cancer Unit due to the following: the pandemic, the cost and availability of building supplies, the lack of labour due to Brexit and the backlog of building work. However, the paper work is in place to start construction but, due to soaring costs, it is now necessary to find another £400,000. The total raised is £2,063,000 and the builders are now going to start. The charity is continuing its appeal for unwanted/broken watches and

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)

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.

10.30am. To book, phone 01460 74340.

Contact: Julie Locke

/theconduitmagazine

E: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk

@conduitmag

jewellery. To donate, please call Maggie (Breast Cancer Appeal Volunteer) on 01963 250108.

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 On Tuesday 5 April from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at The Digby Hall is the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) Sherborne coffee morning for older people. Hot drinks and cakes served. Members pay £3. Transport available for Sherborne residents. For more information, call 07502 130241.

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 9 April from 10.00am to 12.00

noon at St Peter and St Paul Parish Church is the Easter Coffee Morning. Cakes, books and raffle. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, call 01963 824503.

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!

Fiver Fest SHERBORNE Until 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 CASTLE CARY On Saturday 30 April from 10.00am to 4.00pm is the Castle Cary eat:Festival.

This one-day food and drink market, organised by multiaward-winning eat:Festivals, will be held in the town centre, and will showcase over 60 local food and drink producers. Free to attend. www.eatfestivals.org.

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

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

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 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.

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.

On Tuesday 12 and Tuesday 26 April from 11.00am to 1.30pm at The Digby Hall is the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) Sherborne Lunch Club – a lunch club for older people!

Come and enjoy a delicious two-course meal cooked by the friendly team of volunteers. An opportunity to meet up with friends and make new ones.

Tea or coffee from 11.00am. A big celebration Easter Lunch is on Tuesday 12 April. Lunch is served at 12.15pm. Members pay £5. Transport available for Sherborne residents. For more information, call 07502 130241.

On Friday 29 April from 5.30pm at The Cross Keys, come along for some Conker cocktails and delicious sharing boards for the perfect night with friends. To book a table, call 01935 508130, email info@thecrosskeyssherborne. com or book online at www. thecrosskeyssherborne.com.

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 £12.95, Med/OAP £11.75, child £9.50. Contact Allen or Cheryl on 01963 220271. www. mitreinn.co.uk.

YEOVIL 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.

SHERBORNE On Sunday 27 March from 10.00am to 3.00pm at The Cross Keys, treat Mum to a special Mother’s

On Friday 8 April at 7.00pm at The Emporium, there’s an evening of live music with Jamie Witt, along with

food and a fully licensed bar. An exciting night out!

Tickets £8 (bar and food not included in ticket price). See website for menu. To book, call 01935 411378, email info@theemporiumyeovil. co.uk or book online at www. theemporiumyeovil.co.uk.

From Saturday 9 April to Saturday 16 April at The Emporium, Easter Afternoon Tea is being served. Please see The Emporium’s social media platforms for details of what’s included in this fabulous treat, or call 01935 411378 to book a table.

On Thursday 21 April at 7.00pm at The Emporium, it’s music night with Grace and Larry. Visit after hours for a lovely night of food, drinks and covers of popular music.

Tickets £8 (bar and food not included in ticket price). See website for menu. To book, call 01935 411378, email info@theemporiumyeovil. co.uk or book online at www. theemporiumyeovil.co.uk.

On Saturday 23 April from 10.00am to 4.00pm is the Yeovil eat:Festival – Spring Edition.

This one-day food and drink

WHAT’S ON

market, organised by multiaward-winning eat:Festivals, will be held in the grounds of St Johns, The Borough and King George Street, and will showcase over 50 local food and drink producers. Free to attend. www.eatfestivals.org.

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 9.00am 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

1951 – 2021 - 70th Anniversary Reflecting on our past – Planning for your future

An Invitation from the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital The Yeatman Hospital is at the centre of Sherborne, and the town’s own charity, “the Friends of the Yeatman,” is its lifeblood.

Now more than ever, the Friends need more than your money – its needs what money can’t buy – YOUR TIME!!!

If you have ever thought about supporting the Friends – think about becoming a Trustee.

You will find all of the information you need to become a Trustee on our website – https://friendsoftheyeatman.org.uk/ The Friends of the Yeatman Hospital is registered with the Charity Commission no. 1031326

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

5

WHAT’S ON

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 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 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.

LANGPORT Every second Saturday from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the town centre is the Langport Vintage Market. This flea market, located in the shade of the trees at the entrance to Cocklemoor Car Park, has a friendly atmosphere with a French Brocante feel. www. langportvintagemarket.co.uk.

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

MARTOCK On Saturday 9 April 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 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. 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 On Sunday 24 April from 10.00am to 3.00pm, The Sherborne Market will take place on Cheap Street, Abbey Road, Half Moon Street, Digby Road and Pageant Gardens.

This hand-picked and selected artisan market features local producers and suppliers, amazing food, plus arts and crafts. For more information, follow on social media or visit www.thesherbornemarket.com.

Every third Friday from 9.00am to 1.00pm 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. visit-dorset.com/food-and-drink/ farmers-markets.

Every first Saturday from 9.00am to 12.30pm at The Digby Hall, there is a monthly indoor market. Arts, crafts, food and more. Cafe. Toilets. Free entry.

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.

Open Day SHERBORNE On Saturday 2 April from 10.30am to 3.30pm at The Digby Hall, Artisan Route will be holding an open day event in the main hall. The Spring Collection

will be on show and available for sale on the day. Artisan Route specialises in rare pieces of alpaca knitwear, exotic handwoven silk scarves and Pima cotton – examples of real excellence and quality. View the collection in advance at www. artisanroute.co.uk.

On Sunday 24 April from 11.30am to 3.30pm at the Sherborne Steam & Waterwheel Centre, there is an open day.

See how this area overcame a previous health emergency.

Waterwheel and steam engines running, audio visual displays and many items of local and historic interest. Tea room, picnic area, toilet, free parking on road. Entry by donation (cash or card). For more information, visit www.sswc.co.uk.

YEOVIL On Saturday 23 April from 10.00am to 4.00pm at The Emporium is an open day for prospective traders. Please come along for a chat about joining The Emporium as a trader. For more information, visit www.theemporiumyeovil. co.uk.

Sale CREWKERNE On Saturday 16 April from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, there is an Easter fundraising craft fair. Tombola, raffle and Easter colouring craft for the kids. Craft sales include woodwork and marquetry, glass, resin, knitted items and books.

To book a table, email office@ henhayescentre.org. Cost per table is £5.00. The sale coincides with the Henhayes Big Breakfast!

ILCHESTER Every Sunday from Sunday 3 April at Ilchester Sports Field is the Ilchester Charity Car Boot Sale – raising funds for the local community.

Sellers: gates open 7.30am.

Buyers: no access to stalls prior to 8.30am. Car entries £1, pedestrians 50p. Dog friendly.

For more information, phone 07967 280754 or visit the car boot sale’s Facebook page.

NORTON SUB HAMDON On Saturday 9 April from 11.00am at Norton Village Hall, there is a jumble sale.

Quality clothes, bags, shoes, curtains, toys, games, books and lots more. Refreshments

and raffle. Everyone welcome.

Admission 50p. Proceeds to Norton Village Hall funds. For more information, call Jennie on 01935 881718.

STURMINSTER NEWTON On Sunday 3 April from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm at The Exchange is the annual fabric and haberdashery sale. Vintage and modern, dressmaking and furnishing fabrics, knitting, sewing, embroidery and weaving yarns. Haberdashery – all sorts. Books, patterns, magazines and equipment. All fabric over 1m is £2 per metre.

Fabric under 1m – fill a bag for £5. Donations welcome: please drop off at The Exchange, Monday-Saturday, 9.00am1.00pm.

Social ASHILL Every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Ashill Village Hall, there is Scottish country dancing with a fully qualified teacher. It’s a great evening, so come along for fun, fitness and friendship. All welcome. Only £3 per session.

For more information, email Anita Wilson at anitaandjim22@ gmail.com.

BISHOP’S CAUNDLE Every Friday at 7.00pm at Bishop’s Caundle Village Hall, come along to the Butterfly Twilight Majorette Troupe for the over 18s. Have fun getting to grips with a baton and pom-poms.

Enjoy the choreography, music and routines. Improve fitness, balance, coordination, communication, confidence and self-esteem. All are supported in a friendly welcoming environment.

This volunteer-run, non-profit troupe is led by an experienced majorette from the 1980s.

For more information, email butterflytwilightmajorettes@ gmail.com.

BRUTON Every second Wednesday from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Bruton Methodist Church, there is a Sing&Smile session with the Golden-Oldies Charity. Enjoy a good old singalong to those well-loved hits of the 50s onwards? Then come along, make friends and have fun. £3 donation per session. For more information, visit www.golden-oldies.org.uk.

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.

CASTLE CARY 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 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.

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.

CREWKERNE On Tuesday 5 April 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 Julie Dowling of Movement and Music, singing a mix of hits from the 50s to the 80s. £12.50 per person.

To book, call 01460 74340 or 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.

On Tuesday 12 April 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, performing an Easter eggstravanganza of hits! £12.50 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org.

On Tuesday 19 April 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 Blue Honey, a jazz/ blues, soul trio from Devon, performing a range of tunes from the 50s, 60s and 70s. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org.

On Tuesday 26 April 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 Broadwindsor Jammers, performing an array of singalong songs and feelgood tunes. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org.

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

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.

Every last Friday from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Parish Hall, there is a Sing&Smile session with the Golden-Oldies Charity. Enjoy a good old singalong to those well-loved hits of the 50s onwards? Then come along, make friends and have fun. £3 donation per session. For more information, visit www.golden-oldies.org.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.

QUEEN CAMEL Every second Thursday from 2.00pm to 3.00pm at Cleaveside Communal Lounge, there is a Sing&Smile session with the Golden-Oldies Charity. Enjoy a good old singalong to those well-loved hits of the 50s onwards? Then come along, make friends and have fun. £3 donation per session. For more information, visit www.goldenoldies.org.uk.

SHERBORNE On Thursday 14 April at 7.00pm at The Digby Hall, the Sherborne and District Gardeners’ Association’s Spring Show is due to take place.

Judging of members’ entries will commence at 7.30pm.

Visitors are welcome to view the show (entry £2) and learn more about the association. For more information, call Richard Newcombe on 01935 389375.

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!

WHAT’S ON

Every third Monday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Manor Court Community Centre, Newland, is the SCARS cancer support group 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. stalbridgecancerandrecovery support.co.uk.

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 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.

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

ILCHESTER SPORTSFIELD FUND CHARITY BOOT SALE 2022 Charity No. 235579 OPEN EVERY SUNDAY Commences 3rd April

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

7

WHAT’S ON

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 01935 812683.

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.

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.

YEOVIL On Thursday 7 April at 1.30pm at Yeovil Golf Club, there is a new beginning for Yeovil Phoenix Bridge Club. Thereafter, there will be friendly duplicate bridge every Thursday at 2.00pm at Yeovil Golf Club, assisted play and partners. To register an interest, email yeovilphoenix@gmail.com or call Bob Warrender on 01963 440070. www. bridgewebs.com/yeovil.

SOMERTON On Thursday 14 April at 10.30am at Somerton Sports Club. the Friendship Club is planning to restart. Entry 50p. Tea 20p, coffee 30p. Biscuits are free, as is a second cuppa. Prize draw and bingo.

Come along and have a chat and a laugh.

For more information, contact Mo on 07718 920198 or 01458 274631.

SOUTH PETHERTON Every Monday at 7.30pm at The David Hall, come along and sing with The Stanchester Quire – a community quire led by musical director Eddie Upton. No auditions. No need to read music, as everything is learnt by ear.

All welcome. The first two weeks are free for newcomers, so why not give it a try?

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 SCARS cancer support group 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. stalbridgecancerandrecoverysupport.co.uk.

WINCANTON Every second Monday from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at the Balsam Centre is the Wincanton and Bruton Carers Group’s

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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 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.

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 Monday and Thursday at the Henhayes Centre is Crewkerne Indoor Short Mat Bowls Club. Come along for a social and enjoyable afternoon or evening of gentle exercise, companionship and fun competition. Open to all ages, play in all weathers. Times: Monday from 7.00pm to 9.30pm, Thursday 2.00pm to 4.30pm. £10 annual subscription, from £3 per session.

First two familiarisation sessions free. For more information, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre.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.

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 ONLINE On Wednesday 20 April via Zoom, the Somerset Vernacular Building Research Group is hosting a talk about ‘The George Inn at Norton St Philip’. Mary Chisholm will guide the audience through its history. The George is an iconic building of great wonky beauty, so much admired by people driving through Norton St Philip on the main road. Mary will relate how it started as a stone building (the roof is dated 1431), incrementally enlarged and half-timbered for show. Free to all. Email secretary@svbrg. org.uk for the link.

CASTLE CARY On Tuesday 12 April at 7.00pm at The Market House, Café Scientifique Somerset’s talk is ‘Climate Change: What do we know, what don’t we know, and what can we do?’ Speaker: Dan Lunt, Professor of Climate Science, University of Bristol. Find out what the latest scientific observations and modelling can reveal about climate change, and explore what is really known and still unknown about it. But don’t just sit there! Join in the discussion and find out what the country and individuals can actually do to make a difference. Doors open 6.30pm. For more information, contact Colleen Bower on 07375 890751 or email tcolleenbower@ gmail.com.

SHERBORNE 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

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

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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 World of Weather. Tristan, the Natural Navigator, will be in conversation with Brian Bleese, CEO of the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Members £9, non-members £10. Tickets available via the Sherborne Literary Society website or Winstone’s, Sherborne. www. sherborneliterarysociety.com.

On Thursday 21 April at 7.00pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, explorer Benedict Allen will be speaking with the Sherborne Literary Society about his latest book, Explorer: The Quest for Adventure and the Great Unknown. Members £9, non-members £10. Tickets available via the Sherborne Literary Society website or Winstone’s, Sherborne. www. sherborneliterarysociety.com.

On Friday 29 April from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at Sherborne Library, there is a talk entitled ‘Introduction to Managing Your Mental Health’. Join Amanda Whitlock from Total Wellbeing Matters as she discusses mental health awareness. Free event.

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

WINCANTON On Friday 1 April at 7.30pm at Wincanton Memorial Hall, Wincanton & District Gardeners Association is hosting a talk entitled ‘Fuchsias – My Way’ by Derek Dexter. Refreshments and raffle.

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

WHAT’S ON

YEOVIL On Friday 1 April at 7.30pm at Holy Trinity Church, Yeovil Archaeological and Local History Society has a talk about ‘Maypoles and Mischief, Merrymaking and Mayhem – a history of May Celebrations’.

Speaker: Tim Hill. 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 Monday 11 April at 11.00am at the Quicksilver Mail, The Probus Club of Yeovil is holding its monthly meeting.

There will be a talk followed by a luncheon. Guest speaker John Smith will talk about ‘The Battle of Britain’. Yeovil Probus Club is a friendly group of retired, or semi-retired, professional and business men who meet regularly to promote fellowship.

If interested in attending or require more information, contact yeovilprobus@gmail. com.

Walk SOUTH SOMERSET Spending time outdoors or bringing nature into everyday life will greatly benefit one’s wellbeing.

Walking groups and regular organised Health Walks, led by a trained leader, are a great opportunity to be outdoors, connecting with other people

and making new friends. To find out about such groups in South Somerset, call South Somerset District Council on 01935 462462, call Somerset Activities and Sports Partnership on 01823 653990 or view/ download the Health Walks leaflet (www.southsomerset.gov. uk/media/5354/step-out-andjoin-our-health-walks-19.pdf). www.sasp.co.uk/health-walks.

WELLS From Friday 8 to Sunday 24 April from 9.30am to 5.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, explore the gardens of The Bishop’s Palace and hunt for dragons from around the world with the Family Dragon Trail! Follow in the footsteps of Bishop Jocelin, who built the Palace over 800 years ago, and slayed the legendary Dinder Worm. The trail can be collected from the ticket office on arrival and a small prize is available on completion. All Easter Holiday activities are included in the general admission price. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

From Friday 15 to Monday 18 April from 9.30am to 5.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, it’s the annual Easter Weekend Trail.

All egg-splorers welcome! The trail can be collected from the ticket office on arrival and a small prize is available on completion. All Easter Holiday activities are included in the general admission price. For more information, visit www.

BRIDGE IN YEOVIL A NEW BEGINNING

The Yeovil Phoenix Bridge Club, which opens its doors for the first time on Thursday 7 April at Yeovil Golf Club, is not just the rebirth of a struggling club but a fresh start for the game in Yeovil. Bridge everywhere suffered more quickly from Covid-19 than most; sharing cards and breathing the same air, and it is also a favoured pastime of the retired, those most at risk when the pandemic struck.

Encouraged by the Somerset Contract Bridge Association – who could not believe a town as large as Yeovil did not have a bridge club – and welcomed by Yeovil Golf Club with the space and facilities to help, the Yeovil Phoenix Bridge Club as its name implies is rising from the ashes of the game down here. Much will depend on who comes through the door at 1.30 for 2.00pm on Thursday 7 April – and each succeeding Thursday after that – but the ambition is for a broad-church club that welcomes players of all standards. The game needs not just those who are accomplished players but new blood to sample and enjoy this age-old pastime.

Yeovil Phoenix hopes to welcome both.

For further information or to sign up for the 7 April, email yeovilphoenix@gmail. com or call Club Secretary Bob Warrender on 01963 440070.

YEOVIL PHOENIX BRIDGE CLUB

A NEW BEGINNING STARTING ON

THURSDAY 7TH APRIL at 1.30pm Thereafter friendly duplicate bridge every Thursday at 2pm at the Yeovil Golf Club, assisted play and partners.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT yeovilphoenix@gmail.com OR CALL BOB WARRENDER 01963 440070

www.bridgewebs.com/yeovil

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

9

WHAT’S ON

bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

Workshop ILMINSTER Until 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.

Until 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.

Until 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 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.

On Friday 1 April from 10.00am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Felting’ workshop with Geraldine Field.

10

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.

Transform wool into a wearable scarf, or make a 3D model of a bird or animal. Suitable for complete beginners and the more experienced. Gallery Café on-site for a lunch break.

Cost £30. To book, email workshopbookingiac@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 8 April from 11.00am to 1.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Rag Rugs’ workshop. Learn both hooking and prodding methods of rag rugging. Cost £12. Materials are provided and included in the cost. To book, email workshopbookingiac@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Wednesday 13 April from 10.00pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Portrait Artist of the Day’ workshop with Heather Ford. Inspired by the Sky Arts programme, spend a day creating a unique portrait, in whatever medium is preferred, from observation in a relaxed atmosphere. Cost £30. For more information, call Heather on 07368 457984.

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

From Thursday 21 April to Thursday 26 May from 10.00am to 1.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a weekly ‘Pastels’ workshop with Linda Hampson. The theme for this series of workshops is ‘Wild and Domestic Animals. £85 for six weeks. Linda’s classes get booked up quickly so book soon. To book, email workshopbookingiac@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 22 April 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 their sewing machine skills. Numbers 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 Saturday 23 April from 10.30am to 1.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Calligraphy’ workshop with

Ruth Sutherland. The perfect class for beginners as well as those wishing to take their skills to the next level. Please bring along materials (if you have them) or borrow from the tutor for a small charge. Cost £30.

Materials are provided and included in the cost. To book, email workshopbookingiac@ gmail.com or call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

From Tuesday 26 April to Tuesday 21 June 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. Suitable for all levels. £15 per session. Book directly with Nicky on 01460 281773 or at randnclarke@ hotmail.com. No workshop on 24 and 31 May and 7 June.

From Wednesday 27 April to Wednesday 1 June 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. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 29 April 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.

about ‘The Medieval Church’ with tutor Nick Griffiths FSA. Fee £30. To book, enrol online through the WEA South West website or call 0300 303 3464.

The course reference number is C3533522. Please do come along: Long Sutton WEA is a friendly group who love learning for pleasure. For more information, contact Doreen Harvey (doreenharvey243@ gmail.com or 01458 241711) or Stephanie Sales (stephaniesales@btinternet.com or 01458 241855). www.wea. org.uk.

OBORNE On 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.

SHERBORNE On Sunday 24 April 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.

LONG SUTTON On Sunday 30 April from 10.00am to 4.30pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, the WEA is running a day school

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

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KNOW YOUR FEET! As we get into the swing of spring, we can forsake the wellies and don a nice pair of sandals. It’s at that moment we realise winter may not have been very kind to our feet. Time to treat yourself to a pedicure! Getting to know your feet is what’s inspired this month’s Wordsearch. Just find the names of the different words to do with feet 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 25 April. Good luck.

ANKLE ARCH BARE BLISTER BONES BUNION CHIROPODIST

CORN CUBOID DIGIT HALLUX HEEL INSTEP NAILS PEDICURE

SKIPPING SOLE TALUS TARSAL TENDON TOES WALKING

11

SHERBORNE ABBEY FESTIVAL

We can also see you in Bridport Dorchester Poundbury

SPONSORED BY

Taunton Wellington Yeovil

www.porterdodson.co.uk It is with enormous excitement that we announce the return of the Sherborne Abbey Festival in 2022 and what a return it is! With an impressive and extraordinary selection of music and musicians, we welcome everyone back to the beautiful Abbey and our other local venues to enjoy the pleasure of listening to live music.

There are several ‘firsts’ this year for the Festival - our first Festival selling advance tickets entirely on the phone (0333 666 3366) or via our new website www. sherborneabbeyfestival.org and also the first time we have offered tickets to under 18s at a 50% discount. The Festival’s founding principle is to raise money to support young musicians and music-making in Sherborne and this year we are delighted to announce a threeyear commitment to supporting the youth band section of the Sherborne Town Band. We also continue to support the Abbey Choir and are thrilled to have purchased a new grand piano for the abbey.

Whilst mentioning youth music, the opening night on Friday 29 April is absolutely not to be missed. Jess Gillam is the youngest presenter for BBC Radio 3 and hosts her own award-winning weekly show as well as presenting several BBC Proms on live television. She was the first ever saxophonist to reach the final of the BBC

Young Musician and her performance at the Last Night of the Proms in 2018 was described as ‘the indisputable highlight’ by BBC News. She is joined by well-known violinist Ruth Rogers and the Iuventus Chamber Orchestra in a double bill of concertos.

Ruth Rogers returns with two more concerts. On Tuesday 3 May, the principal string players from the London Mozart Players present an intimate, yet stunning collaboration with Michael Collins MBE (clarinet), artistic director in residence of the London Mozart Players, performing the gorgeous Mozart and Brahms clarinet quintets. There is chance to hear Michael and Ruth talking about their concert and their work together in a preconcert talk at 6pm. And on Friday 6 May, Ruth joins the Aquinas Piano Trio for a lively and varied programme. On Wednesday 4 May, continuing the festival’s support of music students at conservatoires, the award-winning Sylva Winds, Royal Academy of Music post-

graduate students, presents a programme of five wind quintets. For lovers of chamber music, these three concerts will surely be top of your list.

For opera lovers, Waterperry Opera presents a fully costumed, period-perfect production of Jonathan Dove’s Mansfield Park at Leweston on Sunday 1 May. Bring a picnic to enjoy lunch beforehand. Or for jazz fans, The Cross Keys closes the festival with an evening of terrific jazz and fabulous food.

On Saturday 30 April, the stunning voices of Tenebrae make a welcome return to the abbey with a programme of choral music from the 1600s to the present day, celebrating Mary, Mother of God. And on Monday 2 May, the Sherborne Festival Chorus presents the magnificent choral work that is Elgar’s ‘The Kingdom’.

Bringing beautiful, intimate early music to the festival is tenor Kieran White performing sixteenth-century English songs accompanied by international lutenist Cédric Meyer.

And of course, there are many more concerts from local ensembles including Sherborne Town Band and Wessex Strings, and wonderful contributions from Sherborne School, Sherborne Girls and Leweston School. Most of these concerts have free entry and provide a superb opportunity to hear talented young performers showcasing their fine musicianship.

Pick up our full colour free brochure from the back of the Abbey, the parish office, the Abbey shop and many local stores or do look at our fabulous new website for full details of everything that is available. This includes details of other ways in which you can get involved with the festival. Our patrons scheme is growing fast and our thanks must go to our many patrons and supporters, who have continued to support the festival over the years. www. sherborneabbeyfestival.org.

FEATURING Jess Gillam | Michael Collins Tenebrae | Ruth Rogers Waterperry Opera | and many more...

29TH APRIL 6TH MAY

2022

For tickets go to: www.ticketsource.co.uk/sherborneabbeyfestival You can also scan the QR code or call 0333 666 3366 12

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13

ADVERTORIAL

GARDENING

AN UPDATE FROM BRADFORDS, SHERBORNE

By Paul Harvey, Sherborne Branch Director

Our thoughts must go out first and foremost to the Ukrainian population who are demonstrating such resilience in truly horrific circumstances.

This really puts into perspective the brief challenges imposed by storms Eunice and Franklin in February, which up here at Barton View we escaped mostly unscathed. From an external point of view, we’re also learning how to live with Covid – now almost exactly two years from when the pandemic was first declared. We continue to take responsible measures, but are trying to make sure that your experience with us is as easy and normal as possible.

At Sherborne Branch we continue to engage with the local community, now with much more freedom to do so with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions. I can’t believe how much time has passed since we challenged Sherborne Primary School pupils to decorate a pumpkin at Halloween for staff and customers to vote for the one they liked the best. Since then, we’ve also taken Sunny the lorry (named by a pupil at the school) to the playground to do a demonstration on road safety. In the summer of 2021 we also co-sponsored the ‘colour run’ at Leweston School organised by Craig of Communifit and we 14

are looking forward to doing so again in July this year. I’m still smarting a little from the mis-selling by Craig: ‘all you need to do is turn up and throw some paint, he said.’ This year we will be mindful that those doing the run are just as capable of throwing the paint as we are!

From a business perspective, the invasion of Ukraine has refocussed attention on an already strained supply chain. Whilst at Bradfords we’re in great shape regarding product availability, this situation has once again challenged our buying teams.

Easter is always a busy time at Bradfords and we have spent the first part of 2022 making sure that we are well stocked with seasonal products at the branch. Whether you are looking to complete a landscaping project, new patio, decking or fencing or maybe just looking to bring a bit of colour to what you already have by tidying up and painting, do come and talk to us about your project. Oh and don’t forget we have Tool Hire at Barton View for any equipment you may require too.

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TRY SOMETHING NEW THIS SPRING

POEM CORNER

By Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group

By Andrew Haylock

Although we have been thinking a lot about 1987 when we started Castle Gardens, it’s good to look forward too and to try something different in the garden. A lot has changed in that time, especially the average size of gardens. Most indicative of this is the quantity of seed potatoes that gardeners grow. It wasn’t uncommon in 1987 for a customer to purchase 56lb of one variety of seed potato for their vegetable garden. Now we often get asked if they can be purchased individually! The latter will be for growing in pots on the patio which was almost unheard of 35 years ago.

Also, a powerful colour and in high demand from chefs are the very dark-leaved kales, such as the variety Scarlet or the lighter KX1 from Thompson and Morgan. They are striking plants and look good as well as being a very versatile vegetable, whether in a mixed salad or a winter green.

Then varieties were chosen more for their yield than anything else, whereas now flavour would be much more considered. Style too is a modern factor with the influence of the supermarkets introducing us to salad varieties such as Charlotte.

I have been a fan of the salad leaf ranges available, including several varieties of what used to be known as ‘cut and come again’ salads.

These can be grown in the ground but are also great in pots. They can be harvested with scissors and then a couple of weeks later have regrown sufficiently to harvest again. The colours and the leaf shapes make these pots interesting to look at as well as being very tasty and nutritious.

Of course, the nanny state has also got involved with the encouragement for us to eat five a day which in recent years has increased to seven! In Japan this has been trumped by the suggestion that we need 15 a day but the 15 refers to the different colours of vegetables with each shade giving a health boost. UK seed producers have responded with the Rainbow ranges found in Thompson and Morgan’s collection, including beetroot, radish and carrots.

The beetroots range from white through concentric rings of pink and white, via yellow to more traditional colours. One of the newest is a variety called Boldor, a powerful yellow and has foliage that also can be eaten. One of its attributes is that it doesn’t stain like normal beetroot does! Carrots were originally more purple than red but the original colour is very much in vogue. The variety Purple Haze is a great colour and as it’s high in nutrients and antioxidants, is very good for us.

In 1987 Perpetual Spinach was in huge demand long after it was revealed that, due to a decimal point being in the wrong place when calculating the iron content of the vegetable, Popeye’s strength couldn’t just be down to his love of the vegetable.

Look out for the selection of seeds from Suttons designed to attract pollinators, predators and parasites into the garden. These will help keep pests under control, as well as yields being higher and at the same time bringing extra interest in the form of wildlife.

The inspiration for this month's poem is how April showers refresh our gardens and how they like to catch us all out with a sudden downpour, but moments later there is sunshine!

APRIL SHOWERS The rain clouds on an early April dawn, Pierced by sunbeams dancing across the lawn.

Silver raindrops stirred by the breeze, Run along branches, dripping off leaves.

The shower stopped as quickly as it began, A fleeting time later another shower sprang.

It was as if someone from upon high, Turned on a sprinkler up in the sky.

A rainbow formed above the town, Nature was signaling that Easter was all around.

The daffodils glistened in yellow and cream, Church bells rang, adding to the scene.

Children ran excitedly jumping in puddles, Mum laughing, under an umbrella huddled.

Amongst the blossom within the cherry tree, A blackbird sung a tune of seasonal glee.

Chirps and squabbles amongst the holly tree, A flock of sparrows sought its sanctuary.

Frogs in the pond, croaked in bliss, Sharing the home of the resident goldfish.

Buds on the shrubs in the springtime sun, The promise of vibrant colours to come.

Time for a hot cross bun and cup of tea, Then an Easter Egg Hunt for all the family!

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

POUNDBURY GARDENS Peverell Avenue, Poundbury DT1 3RT Tel: 01305 257250 www.thegardensgroup.co.uk

15

GARDENING

GARDENING

HOW TO CREATE THE PERFECT AL FRESCO DINING AREA

UP THE GARDEN PATH

By Liv Sabat

By Julie Haylock, Sandhurst Garden Design In the UK, the weather can be unpredictable and outdoor dining areas benefit hugely from being covered or sheltered.

With a range of glass rooms and awnings, we can help to create the perfect al fresco dining area.

Spring is in the air; the days are getting longer, and there are signs of new life emerging out in the garden. Soon it will be time to move young plants from the protection of the greenhouse and out into the big wide world.

These young plants will have to run the gauntlet of insects and wildlife who are just going about their own business, but sadly in doing so will eat or damage our new plants before they can reach maturity.

Companion planting is one such way you can help young plants navigate those early weeks, by using one plant to protect another.

For example, by planting herbs that will use their scent to attract pests away from their neighbour, or by using a plant to function as a ‘sacrificial’ one that it so irresistible to the bugs they will feed on that plant instead of the crop or plant you want to nurture.

Combinations you could try are calendula or marigolds which when planted alongside tomatoes will help to deter white fly. A clove of garlic planted near to the roots of a rose bush will be absorbed and produce a chemical that aphids detest, without altering the aroma or your roses!

Nasturtiums are an example of a sacrificial flower you could plant near to your French or runner beans which will attract aphids and tempt caterpillars away from your cabbages.

The number one arch-enemy of gardeners must be slugs and snails, collectively known as gastropods, which means ‘stomach foot’. These can decimate plants overnight, including their all-time favourite, the hosta.

Recently the RHS has voiced its opinion that slugs and snails have a ‘bad reputation’ and should be viewed no longer as pests but as

‘helpful visitors’ to the garden, as they do more good than harm by clearing up fallen leaves and other garden debris which helps to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem.

We do not use slug pellets in our own garden but instead encourage the wildlife to do the job for us. We have birds that visit the garden including a gorgeous thrush who soon makes short work of a snail shell. In our wildlife pond we have frogs and, if we are lucky, a visiting hedgehog who is partial to a juicy slug.

In addition, applying ‘barriers’ as a defence is something you could do near to your plants to help deter these slithering assassins. The theory being that they do not like moving over sharp or rough material which dries up their slime or irritates them, so they go elsewhere.

Penstemon really is a plant worth its weight in gold. There are many varieties that come in a whole host of colours, easy to look after and they flower for weeks.

Verbena Bonariensis. This tall airy plant has small heads of purple flowers held on stiff slender stems and loved by butterflies. The leaves on this plant are rough in texture so not a bit interesting to slugs or snails.

Wood chippings, wool pellets, broken eggshells, coffee grounds or a smear of Vaseline or a band of copper applied to the rim of a plant pot are all humane options you could try, but be warned, slugs and snails are persistent.

Finally, Rudbeckia. This sun-loving compact plant has daisy-like flowers with petals of warm shades of gold, mahogany, and orange.

It blooms from early summer until the first frosts and, in a sheltered spot, may over winter.

Now for the good news, there are plants that are avoided by these annoying critters, so here are some you could try which will keep your garden blooming.

Hopefully, this has inspired you to head out into the garden and to include some of these plants in your borders, and remember if you need help with garden design ideas or advice about plant selection, then give me a call 07899 710168 or visit my website www. sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk.

Erigeron Karvinskianus or Mexican Fleabane.

This low-growing daisy has white and pink flowers that form clumps so makes it perfect for ground cover in a sunny spot.

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

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

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

16

Foxgloves. If you love your spire-shaped flowers and are fed up with your delphiniums being munched, then these wildlife-friendly plants are the perfect alternative. They can grow up to 2m tall so perfect for the back of a border. They are happy in sun or shade so ideal for that dark shady corner in the garden which will be illuminated with the addition of white foxgloves.

The versatile designs of these systems mean they can come in any size; housing small or large dining tables for the perfect indoor-outdoor experience. You can choose to add sliding glass doors which give out a minimal design and the ability to increase airflow and ventilation when open.

Our glass rooms and pergolas can be free-standing or attached to an exterior wall with two supporting stands. A freestanding structure offers more flexibility, offering homeowners the choice to place the shelter wherever they like.

Tables and chairs will be needed in order to create an al fresco dining area and if you would like the option to prepare food outside, then a BBQ or outdoor kitchen would be ideal. You can decide if you would like lights added to your glass structures, whether it’s LED spotlights or RGB lighting. Either way, lighting will be very important to create different levels of light for the evenings.

If you need some more ideas on creating an outdoor set-up, here are some things you should consider: 1. Choose beautiful, but practical outdoor flooring – an outdoor area will need flooring that can support all furniture, barbecues, etc. Make sure you pick something practical, durable and smooth.

2. Keep everything tidy – every garden needs some good outdoor storage. You could use a kitchen trolley, boxes, crates or a shed.

3. Create an atmosphere with an outdoor speaker – music makes everything better. You could invest in an outdoor speaker, or alternatively if you decide on our glass room structure, you can include a speaker system within the construction; no need to go inside your home to change a song or control the volume.

sunshine and open air – but what about when it gets too hot, especially during lunchtime or at night when you might need some shelter? This is where our pergolas come in, providing you with shelter, as well as a cosy atmosphere when you turn the LED spotlights or RGB lighting on.

5. Take a unique approach to your outdoor space – adding your personality to your alfresco dining set-up is a must.

See you next time!

4. Create a space with plants and lights – al fresco cannot be beaten for enjoying the

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17

COMPUTING

BUSINESS

NEARLY EVERYONE HAS A ‘TODO LIST’ IN BUSINESS BUT DO YOU HAVE A ‘TO-DON’T LIST’?

ORDER, ORDER!

By Jim Rayner

Here’s an intriguing question for you. When you present your customers with a list of choices, is it better to start with the cheapest option or the most expensive? Restaurant menus frequently present the main courses in ascending order of price, wine lists nearly always do the same. And if you go online to buy software or maintenance contracts, or even a funeral plan, the first price you see, because most of us read from left to right, is often the cheapest option. But is that the best way of presenting prices?

It turns out that for many businesses it’s not the best approach.

In 2012 Suk, Lee and Lichtenstein carried out a series of experiments to find out whether customers spend more or less depending on the order in which prices are presented to them.

BUSINESS

By Patricia Marks Over a period of eight weeks, they monitored the sales of bottled beers in a small pub.

The same 13 beers were sold throughout the experiment. But during some sessions the menu listed them with the cheapest at the top and working down to the most expensive. In other sessions the menu was reversed, starting with the most expensive at the top.

In all 1,195 bottles of beer were sold. The researchers found that when customers were presented with a menu showing the cheapest beer at the top they spent less. But listing the beers starting with the most expensive resulted in a clear shift in purchasing behaviour away from the cheaper beers. In fact, the average spend was 4.2% higher.

So what is going on here? There are two effects at work: 1. Anchoring. The first price we see provides a reference point which we subconsciously use to compare all the later prices.

When we see the cheapest option first, everything else looks more expensive. But if we see the most expensive one first, all the later ones look more affordable.

2. Loss aversion or Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO). We tend to associate quality with price. As we work down a list of products from dearest to cheapest each step gives us

an increasing fear of missing out on quality. We instinctively feel that spending less probably means settling for something inferior.

What impact could a 4.2% increase in sales have on your profit?

If you’d like help to explore the Price Order Effect in your business, you can get in touch through my website www.jamesrayner.co.uk where you can also download a free copy of my ebook, Profitable Pricing – A Guide for Ambitious Business Owners.

STAY ON TOP OF THE NUMBERS

The researchers also looked at customer behaviour with a range of other products, including marker pens, pasta meals, digital cameras and hotel rooms, with similar or even stronger results.

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A to-don’t list is as important as to-do list!

Don’t conform to what everyone else does or how they do it. Do what is right for you and your business – don’t be a me-too business. Businesses that copy usually struggle to fulfil their potential so do it your way.

Don’t wait for the perfect time – there is no perfect time. Perfection, in my view, is impossible to achieve in business, particularly if you want to grow and develop a business. Do it when it feels right for you, and you are prepared for whatever it is and what it may bring.

Don’t be carried away by the urgency of things and be pressured to give attention to the wrong things. Think of the impact on a bigger scale and in the long term if your attention is too divided.

Don’t try to hold on to everything.

Not everything that worked before will necessarily work now.

Be open to change. Be observant and take note if something doesn’t work anymore. Embrace ‘newness’.

Don’t judge before you have tried to understand something that is being presented to you.

It’s easy to immediately jump to a conclusion based on what you already know. Face new ideas, conflicting opinions and challenging people with an open mind.

Don’t let your emotions get the better of you in very trying situations. Strength of character is not demonstrated by your ability to scare people or make a scene. If you give in to emotional outbursts when under pressure, even if you have an excuse, it will simply come back to haunt you and you will regret it.

Don’t let your pet irks get in the way of your relationships.

Whatever your annoyance be it grammar, cleanliness, standard operating procedures and no matter how much you are required to follow these to the letter, they should not be a reason to turn a working relationship sour or create conflict. There is always a good way to say things. There is always

a better way to put it. There are also times when you can let go of the less important obsessions for the greater good.

Don’t be too nice. That can give others a reason to continually ask for more. If you are naturally nice all the time, you may have to tone it down and give yourself some protection. Set your boundaries.

Learn to say no, particularly when enough is enough.

Don’t fret over your mistakes.

It is natural to feel guilty for our mistakes. Whether small or big, many of us cannot let go of the thought: ‘What if only…?’ Let go!

For small things, forgive yourself and move on, otherwise it will colour your every interaction moving forward. For big mistakes, reflect on what went wrong, talk it out to a trusted confidant and learn from the experience.

Currently, machines that can upgrade from Windows 10 to 18

Windows 10 was, in my opinion, based on Windows 7 (or some of the behind-thescenes features and the control panel were) and therefore most programs that worked on

Windows 7 still work on Windows 10. The control panel is still the same in Windows 11 including Backup and Restore (Windows 7). The rest of the appearance of Windows 11 has changed from the Windows 10, and most people have only just got used to the big changes from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10.

One of the biggest but simplest changes in Windows 11 is the taskbar icons, where Microsoft has decided to move all the pinned icons from the left side to the centre on the taskbar (like a well-known fruit-based company operating system) but hasn’t completely committed to this as it gives you the option (somewhere in the settings) to

move them back to the left side.

The next is the right-click menu, which is now called a ‘simplified right-click menu’. They have removed from this menu the only real things people use it for, Copy, Paste and Delete. Instead, you have to click on the bottom option (Show more options) to be able to perform these simple tasks. You can go deep into the system and change this, but it seems like a slight faff considering since windows 98 these options have been available when right-clicking.

They do have some new better features in Windows 11, such as, when the computer is required to complete an update, it gives you the amount of time it will take to complete the update

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So, before I start to sound even more like a grumpy old man at the age of 33 with two small children (Lily Flynn born on 4 Feb 2022), I’ll leave you with the reality that just because something new is available doesn’t mean it’s better and you must have it straight away, even with the persuasion of Microsoft.

As always, if in doubt or if you need help, you know where to come!

Don’t forget to celebrate and mark significant milestones and positive outcomes. It is all too easy to reflect on the negative to learn from it but also take the time to get underneath the good stuff too!

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Support will include: before you commit to clicking install. However, in my mind that’s about it. They do claim to be able to run Android apps, but this is still in the Beta/Development stage and who really wants this feature?

I’d think less than 5% of my clients. The overall new design does look nice, but I wouldn’t go and buy a new computer for this feature just because my current computer didn’t meet the large list of minimum requirements in order to upgrade.

Don’t spend too much time on your to-do list. When you do this every day, you cannot spend more time on it than you have to.

There is no general rule on how much time to spend on your list, but looking at it for more than 15 minutes is just a waste of time.

Business Support for Care Providers

By James Flynn, Milborne Port Computers Windows 11 are ‘prompted’ or ‘pushed’ to upgrade to Windows 11 because they meet the ‘requirements’ and clearly in Microsoft’s eyes, 11 is better than 10… Right? What you need to bear in mind is that if you agree to upgrade to Windows 11, it won’t happen as soon as you click GO. Sadly, it will probably happen when you least want it to. (Just note, when the upgrade process starts let it finish, because if you interrupt it, it will more than likely be an unbootable/startable machine.)

Don’t let the negative actions of others shape your decision making. You are not responsible for how others conduct themselves. You may need to challenge them and their behaviour but don’t hold it as your problem.

Don’t deny your emotions. Be grounded with your feelings.

WINDOWS 11 We were all told back in 2015 that Windows 10 would be the last version in terms of Windows updates and the future would be ‘Windows as a service’, (whatever that means).

Since the release of Windows 11 in October 2021 there has only been a 16% uptake in installing it, and this isn’t really a surprise from our point of view as this could be because consumers are buying new laptops/desktops with Windows 11 pre-installed. (FYI, on some new machines you can reinstall Windows 10 as long as you do it before you setup and transfer data as it must be a blank/clean install.)

Listen to them. There will be times when you need to reflect on how to harmonize your heart and the mind. If you feel a negative emotion, acknowledge it, feel it and find ways to express it appropriately, as it will help you move on with a reasonable action.

Strategy

Management

Finance

This programme will look at business and organisational strategy in line with key goals and objectives.

Time will be made to look at management and staffing processes, procedures and structure.

Each organisation will undertake a financial assessment to establish their current position.

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19

By Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning

FINANCE ARTS

LEGAL

Sadly, world events have been at the forefront of our minds over the past couple of months and we are seeing the impact and devastation of war and the suffering in Ukraine. Our newspapers and media are also highlighting the affect of high inflation with the cost of electricity rocketing and the cost of refuelling our cars at the petrol station at an all-time high. Added to this, we have the real possibility of an increase in interest rates which will put a smile on the face of savers but worries for those people with mortgages.

All of this uncertainty about the future has a major impact on prices of shares and bonds on the global stock market. After all, investors are investing for the future, and expected returns from companies or from bonds become less certain. This creates volatility in the markets and daily fluctuations, as we have seen many times, before they begin to come into focus.

EMOTIONAL BEHAVIOUR

By Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning Sadly, world events have been at the forefront of our minds over the past couple of months and we are seeing the impact and devastation of war and the suffering in Ukraine.

Our newspapers and media are also highlighting the affect of high inflation with the cost of electricity rocketing and the cost of refuelling our cars at the petrol station at an all-time high. Added to this, we have the real possibility of an increase in interest rates which will put a smile on the face of savers but worries for those people with mortgages.

All of this uncertainty about the future has a major impact on prices of shares and bonds on the global stock market. After all, investors are investing for the future, and expected returns from companies or from bonds become less certain. This creates volatility in the markets and daily fluctuations, as we have seen many times, before they begin to come into focus.

Volatility is not just a recent phenomenon.

We have been through a period of low market volatility and relatively good stock market returns in recent years. This has in fact been out of the ordinary, but it is easy to become accustomed to these market conditions and increase your holdings considering them to be the new ‘normal’.

20

Volatility is not just a recent phenomenon. We have been through a period of low market volatility and relatively good stock market returns in recent years. This has in fact been out of the ordinary, but it is easy to become accustomed to these market conditions and increase your holdings considering them to be the new ‘normal’.

ARE YOU PAYING FOR CARE HOME FEES THAT THE NHS SHOULD BE FUNDING?

This normal behaviour can have a damaging effect on wealth creation if not understood and addressed appropriately.

One safe prediction about the financial markets is that they're completely unpredictable. That's why market timing and performance chasing seldom work.

Granted, it's hard to ignore market turbulence and the storm of ‘expert’ advice it generates – especially when your portfolio is suffering. The best way to build wealth over the long run is to follow a disciplined long-term investment strategy with an appropriate asset allocation for your time frame, objectives, and risk tolerance.

No journey is without danger and, when you're investing, there's always the risk that you'll lose money. But you stand a better chance of staying on track by keeping emotions in check and avoiding some common mistakes: Market timing. You can't predict the market, so resist the urge to make major changes to your portfolio on a whim.

Chasing performance. Basing your investment decisions on what the market did yesterday is like trying to drive by looking only in your rear-view mirror.

This normal behaviour can have a damaging effect on wealth creation if not understood and addressed appropriately.

Miscalculating risk. Know your risk tolerance and allocate your assets accordingly.

Investment decisions based on emotional reactions and recent performance don’t generally end well. By the time you've jumped on (or off) an investment bandwagon, chances are you've already missed out on whatever advantage you might have gained. Instead of trying to time the market, look at the big picture, stick to the strategy and think long term.

Overweighting. Are all of your eggs in one basket? It can be tempting to load up on one particular type of investment, especially when that investment is doing well. But in doing so, you could be inviting misfortune.

It's not always easy, but having a plan, and the discipline to stick to it, is the best way to reach your financial goals.

By Charlotte Cole, Pardoes Solicitors

NHS England has recently released figures that show the number of people who are applying for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding has dropped dramatically in the three months to December last year, and remains below pre-pandemic levels. areas of a person’s health needs, such as mobility, nutritional and behavioural needs. Overall, Source: Source:Carl CarlRichards Richards the CHC assessment process seeks to establish if a person’s main reason Investment decisions based on emotional reactions and recent performance don’t generally endfor care is due to This is disappointing but their health needs; known as a well. By the time you've jumped on (or off) an investment bandwagon, chances are you've already unfortunately unsurprising. ‘primary healthcare need.’ The The pandemic greatly to time the market, look missed out on whatever advantage you might have gained.

Insteadhas of trying criteria are not based on your disrupted the health and social at the big picture, stick to the strategy and think long term. ability to pay. care system and put additional At Pardoes, we specialise in the pressures on an already fragile One safe prediction about the financial markets is thatsystem. they'reMany completely unpredictable.

That's why CHC system and can represent people do not market timing and performance chasing seldom work.know that CHC exists and for you throughout the application process. We have successfully those that do, many do not obtained theof details.

Before the it generates Granted, it's hard to ignore market turbulence and theknow storm ‘expert’ advice – CHC for a number saving them pandemic, people were especially when your portfolio is suffering. The best way to buildmany wealth over the longclients run isthereby to thousands of pounds in care wrongly told they were not costs. It is also possible to apply eligible for CHC when in fact retrospectively for CHC. This their care-home fees should be We never forget that it’s your life, your money and your future that is important. means if your loved one has Our advice is completely impartial and we partner you over the long term. funded by the NHS through died and they were in a care CHC. It is likely that this has home, it may be possible to got worse due to the knock-on reclaim some or all of their care effects of the pandemic.

Call us today on costs.

So, what is CHC and how do 01935 813322 The system of applying for CHC you obtain it? info@ffp.org.uk is complex and this can deter CHC is a system whereby the www.ffp.org.uk people from applying for this NHS will pay for your care costs specialist type of funding. If you Trusted, Professional, Fee Based Advice in full if you meet the eligibility think you or a loved one may Fort Financial Planning, Etheridge House, Barton View Business Park, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 FW criteria. The eligibility criteria be eligible for CHC, then please Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority are based on twelve different The figures also show that the number of people being found eligible for CHC is gradually trending downwards to a low of 22%.

Your life Your money Your future

contact us today to find out what financial support, if any, you could claim. Please contact Charlotte Cole on 01278 454419 or charlotte.cole@pardoes.co.uk for free initial advice.

CAN WE

HELP YOU

(Charlotte Cole is a solicitor at Pardoes Solicitors LLP and specialises in CHC funding.

Charlotte can act for clients who are based in Somerset and nationwide.)

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

LEGAL

Solicitors

NO FAULT DIVORCE Darren Francis, Solicitor, Humphries Kirk The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 represents the biggest reform of divorce law in 50 years. The aim behind the reform is to reduce conflict between divorcing and separating couples who are ending a marriage or civil partnership. The reforms will come into force on 6th April 2022.

Currently, the grounds for divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership is that the marriage or civil partnership has irretrievably broken down. There is a requirement to demonstrate one of five “facts”: adultery, behaviour, desertion, or a relevant period of separation (two years or five years).

These facts represent “fault”, particularly where adultery, desertion or unreasonable behaviour are concerned. These “fault” criteria have contributed to a blame culture between separating parties, fuelling the distress and upset for the parties and their family. The blame culture can lead to the later discussions about financial matters or children becoming more difficult and contentious.

Key Changes 1. The requirement to provide evidence of behaviour or separation will be replaced by a Statement of Irretrievable Break Down.

2. A Respondent would no longer be able to defend a divorce or dissolution application or dispute a “fact” in normal circumstances.

3. A new option of a mutual joint application. One spouse alone may initiate the legal process of divorce or dissolution,

or by agreement the parties may make a joint application. Joint applications can change to sole applications, in the event the other party changes their mind.

4. The current stages of a divorce and dissolution Application (Decree Nisi and Decree Absolute) will be retained, but a new minimum time frame of 26 weeks will be introduced where possible. The application for Decree Absolute may be postponed until such time as an agreed financial settlement is reached.

These changes seek to remove the blame culture often seen by parties, particularly when citing unreasonable behaviour and remove some of the acrimony associated with it.

These changes may prevent practices being misused or abused by parties choosing to continue their coercive and controlling behaviour by unreasonable delay.

Divorce law will move towards online digital proceedings.

This will further streamline the process and allow the parties to achieve their mutual goals with less acrimony.

These reforms retain what is considered to work well in existing divorce law and will help to resolve difficulties more amicably.

To discuss how Humphries Kirk’s family law team may be able to assist you please contact Margaret Baker (Partner), Kay Levene (Partner), Leanne Weatherill (Partner), Darren Francis (Solicitor and author of this article), Debbie Roper (Associate) or Michell Holt (Paralegal). We have expertise in all our offices.

HUMPHRIES KIRK

Thursday 7 April 2022, 9:30am to 5:00pm The Langport Arms – Langport

Drop in and meet local legal experts for Family Law and Estate & Lifetime Planning Kayleigh Trimmer

Family Law Advisor

Tracy Neal, joint head of Agriculture & Rural Property at Battens Solicitors, has been busy planting trees as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy Project on her land in North Dorset.

60 new trees have been planted including oak, beech, chestnut, field maple, alder, walnut and a mix of 120 hedging plants such as hawthorn, blackthorn and dog rose.

FREE LEGAL POP-UP

Hayley Coyne

TRACY DIGS IN FOR THE QUEEN’S GREEN CANOPY PROJECT IN NORTH DORSET

Chartered Legal Executive

To make a booking call 01460 279100 Initial 30 minutes will be free of charge…

…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

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The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) is a unique tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 which invites people from across the United Kingdom to ’Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’. For more information, visit www. queensgreencanopy.org.

been important to me. As a custodian of the land, I want to ensure that I do all I can to help preserve the flora and fauna. Taking part in The Queen’s Green Canopy project in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year is really exciting. These trees will be mapped and I hope that planting them will leave a legacy for many generations to come.’

Battens specialist Agriculture & Rural Property team has seen an increase of new and existing clients buying land to plant trees to offset carbon and move towards net zero. Purchase of land with established woodland is also on the rise.

Tracy is delighted to be taking part in a national scheme which will benefit the local environment for generations to come.

Anyone considering buying land for woodland creation, or to simply enjoy established woodland, Battens Agriculture & Rural Property team has the local expertise to assist with the conveyancing process.

‘Having been bought up on a farm in New Zealand, rural matters, and in particular the environment, have always

If you require more information, please contact Tracy Neal on 01935 846076. www.battens.co.uk.

Protecting your farm, family and future Expert legal advice from Battens Agriculture and Rural Property team

Yeovil | Sherborne | Castle Cary Dorchester | Wareham | Bath 0800 652 8373 | enquiries@battens.co.uk | www.battens.co.uk

UKRAINE CRISIS APPEAL School in a Bag work with existing charity partners who are right at the foref ront of the Ukrainian crisis. They can help us get SchoolBags to families who have fled Ukraine seeking refuge in neighbouring countries.

schoolinabag.org/campaign/ukraine-crisis-appeal TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH EDUCATION

A woman with two children crossing the Ukrainian-Slovak border in Ubla - Peter Lazar/AFP via Getty Images

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23

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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.

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bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

By Julie Locke

VISUAL ART

Until 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.

Ilminster Arts Centre Exhibition – Found Until Thursday 31 March Somerset Art Works (SAW) is calling on artists to register for Somerset Art Weeks Festival (24 September to 9 October), which returns for 2022 with the theme ‘Sanctuary’. Look out for call outs, opportunities and information on the SAW website and on SAW’s social media channels. For more information, visit www.somersetartworks. org.uk or contact Festival Coordinator Paul Newman at artweeks@somersetartworks. org.uk.

Until 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, 24

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

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.

Until 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 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

​ ntil Saturday 23 April U from 10.00am to 5.00pm at Courthouse Gallery, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Cetaceans, Crustaceans and other Curious Creatures’ by Debby Mason. Debby is a printmaker with a love of the sea, and specialises in etchings and mezzotints. Her work celebrates the colour and diversity of nature, particularly the creatures that live in the seas. As a qualified diver, she has met some of her subjects face-to-face! Gallery open Wednesday to Saturday. For more information, visit www. courthousegallery.uk.

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

day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com.

From Saturday 2 April to Tuesday 28 June from 9.30am to 5.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there is an exhibition ‘Landmarks’ by multi-award-winning painter/ printmaker, Gail Mason.

‘Landmarks’ is a solo exhibition of gestural, painterly, expressive and atmospheric imagined landscapes on paper and canvas. Gail has exhibited widely in the South West and has received several national awards. Her work has been selected for the Royal Academy, Bankside Gallery, The Mall Galleries London and the RWA Bristol. Entry is included in general admission price. For more information, visit www.

Art & Photography Exhibition Categories.. “

EXHIBIT YOUR WORK!

.

Sculpture

Amateur photographers, artists, sculptors and needle-workers are invited to display their work at the Parish Rooms, Somerton from 28th May to 4th June.

Up to four piece s of work Entry charge: £2 .00 per item

Needlework

Up to four piece s of work Entry charge: £2 .00 per item

Framed A or k/ Canvassesrt/w Photograp

(exhibition closed Sunday 29th May)

Up to four fram ed pictures or canvasses Entry charge: £2 .00 per item

HOW TO ENTER

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It’s easy to submit your work. Just fill Unmounted / mou Artwork & Pho nted in our online entry form and make tography Up to five unfra med items the appropriate payment.Entries Entry charge: £1 .00 per item will be accepted until 13th May.

www.somertonartsfestival. co.uk/exhibitorinfo Full terms and conditions of entry on website.

Please contact Jackie on 07778 006543 or email art@somertonartsfestival.co.uk if you have any queries.

Cards Entry

ge: £1.00 per ite .........ch...ar... ..................m... .

For full details max size and di of categories, requirements splay , visit our website

well ing that’s happening in Somerton this July as Don’t miss a thing! Keep up to date with everyth media pages social our g followin by itions compet and as special offers

somertonfestival

somertonfest

officialsomertonfestival

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

From Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 April from 10.00am to 4.00pm at The Parish Rooms, Somerton, there is the annual art exhibition by the Somerton Group of Artists. After two years without an exhibition, the group is happy to welcome visitors to the exhibition and sale of works. There will be a wide selection of paintings, both framed and unframed, as well as artists' greetings cards, with the opportunity to purchase an original piece from a local artist.

Everyone is welcome, with no obligation to buy. This is a very friendly local artists group from Somerton and the surrounding area – new members welcomed.

Free admission. For further information, visit www. somertonartists.co.uk or the group’s Facebook page.

From Saturday 9 to Saturday 23 April from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Local Heroes’ by Emma van Zeller.

These illustrations were created

by Emma in 2021 for Country Life Magazine for the weekly Local Heroes column, a series of satirical stereotypes: Emma illustrated the characters in pencil, ink and watercolour, in her signature whimsical style.

An earlier set of alphabet prints she drew in 2017 for children will also be available to view. Emma is based in nearby Kingsdon, works from her studio above an old dairy and specializes in editorial and children’s illustration. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk.

From Saturday 9 April to Saturday 14 May from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Fifty Bees 5’ by Lydia Needle.

The interconnectedness of all things is the basis for a new collaborative exhibition devised by Lydia for which she has sculpted 50 more bee pieces from wool, thread and vintage containers. Another 50 artists were invited to create new companion works inspired by the ecology of one of those bee species. This presents a wonderfully unique and diverse narrative about the interconnection between the flora and fauna. Open:

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

From Tuesday 19 April to Saturday 14 May from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, Creative Coverage will be exhibiting paintings, ceramics, glass and sculpture. Exhibitors include: James Lester, Susan Purser Hope, Patricia Haskey, Joanna Commings, Andrew Forkner, Pearl Gatehouse, Miranda Pender and Nigel Moores.

There is something for everyone to enjoy in this four-weeklong exhibition. 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.

Ilminster Arts Centre Exhibition – Creative Coverage

MUSIC 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

Barbara Dickson

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

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SOMERTON

GROUP OF

ARTISTS 2022ART EXHIBITION AND SALE OF WORKS AT THE PARISH ROOMS, SOMERTON

TUESDAY 5TH - SATURDAY 9TH APRIL (10AM - 4PM) FREE ADMISSION

See our website: www.somertonartists.co.uk or facebook for further information

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.

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.

On Friday 1 April at 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Concerts in the West presents the awardwinning Pelleas Ensemble.

Henry Roberts (flute), Luba Tunnicliffe (viola) and Anne Denholm (harp) will play works

by Clarke, Beamish, Debussy, Smyth, Dowland and Prokofiev – 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 2 April at 7.30pm at The Dance House, Crewkerne, Concerts in the West presents the awardwinning Pelleas Ensemble.

Henry Roberts (flute), Luba Tunnicliffe (viola) and Anne Denholm (harp) will play works

by Clarke, Beamish, Debussy, Smyth, Dowland and Prokofiev – for the full programme, visit

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

25

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

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Catch Garrick and Etheridge at Kingsdon Church on 6 April!

Guitarist John Etheridge and violinist Chris Garrick have performed together for many years, often touring Dorset and Somerset as part of various ensembles. Back with a new show this world class duo are set to visit Somerset’s Kingsdon All Saints Church on 6 April. For ticket info see listing.

Legendary guitarist John Etheridge has had substantial relationships during his extensive career with some of the most famous names of 20th century music, including Stephane Grappelli, Nigel Kennedy, John Williams and Soft Machine. Chris Garrick is an improvising violinist, a composer and a bandleader. Active on both the international concert circuit and the London studio session scene, Chris will be familiar to many as the front man of the Budapest Café Orchestra, having toured to the West Country on numerous occasions, and always to great acclaim. 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 2 April at 7.30pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an evening with virtuosic musicians, Ricky Romain and Udit Pankhania. Ricky (sitar) and Udit (tabla) have been playing Indian classical music together for the last three years. Their musical performances follow the traditional approach of the slow, meditative and melodic unfolding of ragas to the dynamic interplay between sitar and tabla, taking audiences to the exhilarating crescendo between the two instruments.

Tickets £12 per person, available online. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk.

On Saturday 2 April at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster 26

now lives in Scotland. As a result, she has developed a style that switches easily between Celtic and Americana. Heidi is a warm, engaging performer and over the past twenty years has performed all over the world in the finest concert halls and international festivals. Tickets £18, concessions £17. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

Heidi Talbot

Newton, there’s a performance

by Ninebarrow, a multi-awardwinning folk duo, who are impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition. Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere combine breathtaking vocal harmonies and melodies, delivering songs that are inspired and rooted in the landscape and history of the British Isles. Their latest album, A Pocket Full of Acorns, was released in March 2021 to wide-spread critical acclaim including coverage on BBC1’s Countryfile and BBC Radio 4’s ‘Front Row’. Tickets £18, under 18s £16. Book online at www. stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Saturday 2 April at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Heidi Talbot performs ‘Sing it for a lifetime’, her most raw and open-hearted work to date. Heidi was born in Ireland, moved to New York at 18, where she became a folk star as a member of the Irish-American band Cherish the Ladies, and

On Sunday 3 April at 3.00pm at Church of St Roch, Pendomer, near Yeovil, Concerts in the West presents the awardwinning Pelleas Ensemble.

Henry Roberts (flute), Luba Tunnicliffe (viola) and Anne Denholm (harp) will play works

by Clarke, Beamish, Debussy, Smyth, Dowland and Prokofiev – for the full programme, visit www.concertsinthewest.org.

Tickets £18, students £5, under 12s (accompanied by a paying adult) free. To book, call 01935 862339 or book online at www. concertsinthewest.org.

On Wednesday 6 April at 7.30pm at All Saints Church, Kingsdon, world-class duo Christian Garrick (violin) and John Etheridge (guitar) provide a feast of interplay and improvisation, and an eclectic repertoire with music ranging from Peter Gabriel to Richard Rogers via Dollar Brand and Alison Goldfrapp. Both players make extensive use of looping and other effects, creating an astonishing range of sounds. Atmospheric, hypnotic, humorous and entertaining.

‘A Grappelli and Reinhardt of our times’ Hank Marvin. Tickets £12, under 16s £6, available from 01935 841402, Kingsdon Community Shop or online at www.takeart.org.

On Thursday 7 April at 7.00pm at Lamyatt Village Hall, worldclass duo Christian Garrick (violin) and John Etheridge

(guitar) provide a feast of interplay and improvisation, and an eclectic repertoire with music ranging from Peter Gabriel to Richard Rogers via Dollar Brand and Alison Goldfrapp. Both players make extensive use of looping and other effects, creating an astonishing range of sounds. Atmospheric, hypnotic, humorous and entertaining. ‘A Grappelli and Reinhardt of our times’ Hank Marvin. Tickets £12, child/student £6, family ticket (admits 4) £30, available from 07971 631976 or online at www. takeart.org.

On Friday 8 April at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, back again for a second visit is vintage jazz quartet, The Dime Notes.

This band digs back into the clarinet-driven New Orleans jazz of the 1920s, unearthing a repertoire of stomps, blues, and forgotten gems of that era. The band comprises David Horniblow (Chris Barber’s longtime clarinettist), Andrew Oliver (piano), Dave Kelbie (rhythm guitar), and Tom Wheatley (bass guitar). Inspired, laid-back swing! Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 8 April at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Rachael McShane and The Cartographers make their first appearance on this stage. Rachael McShane is a singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player, and an original member of folk big band Bellowhead.

Rachael is now working on a new solo project (a reworking of traditional songs) and is playing with a brand-new band, featuring Matthew Ord (guitarist) and Julian Sutton (melodeon player). This performance will feature three musicians at the very top of their game.

Tickets £16. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www. thedavidhall.com.

On Friday 8 April at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, see Jimmy Jemain in ‘Wired for Sound’, a live concert celebrating the music of Cliff Richard. Jimmy is now firmly established as the No.1 Cliff Richard look-and-sound-a-like.

This concert covers as many hits as possible from six decades of Cliff’s music. Jimmy and his sensational five-piece band will have the audience dancing in

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. the aisles in no time. Tickets £19.50, under 18s £18.50. Book online at www.stur-exchange. co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Saturday 9 April at 7.00pm at West Pennard Village Hall, world-class duo Christian Garrick (violin) and John Etheridge (guitar) provide a feast of interplay and improvisation, and an eclectic repertoire with music ranging from Peter Gabriel to Richard Rogers via Dollar Brand and Alison Goldfrapp. Both players make extensive use of looping and other effects, creating an astonishing range of sounds. Atmospheric, hypnotic, humorous and entertaining. ‘A Grappelli and Reinhardt of our times’ Hank Marvin. Tickets £12, available from 07733 308900 or online at www.takeart.org.

On Sunday 10 April at 2.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, there is a BSO On Your Doorstep family concert ‘From the Hebrides to Padstow’.

Join a BSO chamber ensemble featuring players from across the orchestra in a celebration of the sea. Featuring music from Handel and Mendelssohn to the Beatles and Adele, this special family concert will be presented by a BSO associate musician to guide audiences of all ages on a nautical musical journey. Tickets £10, under 18s £5, family ticket (2+2) £25. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil. co.uk.

On Sunday 10 April at 7.30pm at Caryford Hall, Castle Cary, world-class duo Christian Garrick (violin) and John Etheridge (guitar) provide a feast of interplay and improvisation, and an eclectic repertoire. Doors open 6.45pm. Tickets £12 from www.caryfordhall.co.uk.

On Thursday 14 April at 7.30pm at The Exchange,

Sturminster Newton, Wayne Denton and his exceptionally talented musicians perform ‘A Celebration of John Denver’, a highly acclaimed tribute to one of the greatest song writers and performers ever known.

Wayne and his musicians take the audience on a memorable journey through the extensive John Denver songbook. This is a presentation that will lift the hearts of all music lovers everywhere! Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Friday 15 April at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, listen to traditional jazz at its best, performed by The Savannah Jazz Band. The band’s driving and exciting New Orleans style attracts large audiences whenever they play. With their talent for satisfying listeners and dancers alike, they have built up a truly international reputation at major festivals in the UK and overseas. This dynamic, hard-working and truly professional band has a varied and ever-changing programme, and is constantly adding new numbers to their extremely wide repertoire. Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 22 April at 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Jemima Farey presents ‘Flying Folk’, an evening of folk music. The first set is ‘Stomping’ Dave Allen and ‘Slammer’ Durrant, with guitar, banjo, fiddle, piano, harmonica, vocals and tap dancing, performing a very lively selection of American ‘roots’ music, including folk, blue grass and blues. The second set is Arquebus, playing and singing traditional tunes and chorus songs, plus their own compositions, in an upbeat contemporary foot-stomping style. Arquebus comprises Sam Patten (songwriter, lead vocals, bouzouki), Alex (fiddle) and Sarah (bass, mandolin).

Tickets £12. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail.com

Arquebus

or phone 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.

On Friday 22 April at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Peter Knight’s Gigspanner Big Band. BBC Folk Best Duo award-winners Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin, and Bellowhead cofounder John Spiers join forces with legendary fiddle player Peter Knight’s highly acclaimed trio Gigspanner to form the Gigspanner Big Band. Expect a performance of dazzling musicianship, arresting chemistry and richly atmospheric arrangements. Not to be missed! Tickets £21. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

Gigspanner Big Band On Saturday 23 April at 12.00 noon at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, Somerset folk singers Nathan Lewis Williams and Dora Darling will be performing a one-off concert as a duo on the South Lawn. Nathan (vocals, cittern and guitar) and Dora (vocals, guitar and violin) will play an hour long set of songs and tunes, including historical story ballads, fiddle tunes and musical settings of poetry, with traditional and original music for St George’s Day. All Easter Holiday activities are included in the general admission price.

For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

On Wednesday 27 April at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, Fenella Humphreys (violin) makes her Yeovil debut with her regular duo partner, Martin Roscoe (piano). Refer to the Octagon website for programme details.

Fenella was winner of the 2018 BBC Music Magazine Instrumental Award. Tickets £17, concessions £15.50, student/ child £14. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre. co.uk.

On Friday 29 April at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, listen to the music of Art Blakey and his

ARTS

Jazz Messengers played by The Rory Ingham/James Davison Sextet, featuring Matt Carter on piano. The music is wildly high-energy and unbelievably swinging. The band features some of finest talent on the British Jazz scene: Rory Ingham (trombone), Jim Davison (trumpet), Helena Kay (tenor sax), Matt Carter (piano), Will Harris (bass) and Luke Tomlinson (drums). Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or phone 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

From Friday 29 April to Friday 6 May, Sherborne Abbey Festival will take place at various venues in the town.

This festival is a non-profit making organisation with charitable status and is run by an experienced and dedicated team of volunteers. Sherborne Abbey Festival operates with two principal aims: to host world-class performances and showcase local musical talent and to support local music initiatives, especially those involving young people. For a full list of events, please visit www.sherborneabbeyfestival. org.

On Saturday 30 April at 3.30pm at Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, there is a concert

by Sherborne Town Band. This well-loved, award-winning local band performs a wide variety of music from well-known brass band classics to arrangements of popular classics. The band performs frequently around the town, helping many local organisations and charities with their fund-raising events.

It also runs a successful Youth Band which Sherborne Abbey Festival is delighted to support.

Tickets £5. Book online at www. sherborneabbeyfestival.org or call TicketSource on 0333 666 3366.

On Saturday 30 April at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, come and see Roxy Magic, the UK’s only Roxy Music/Bryan Ferry tribute band. Formed in 2004, Roxy Magic recreates four decades of incredible music: from art school retro-futurism to classic standards via sophisticated, adult-oriented rock. Their aim is to give the audience a fabulously entertaining evening, with a great combination of high-quality musicianship

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

27

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

ARTS

and a wonderful Bryan Ferry look- and sound-alike in Kevin Hackett. Roxy Magic will never fail to impress! Tickets £19, concessions £18. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

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.

India Electric Co.

PERFORMANCE

On Saturday 30 April at 8.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne, there is fundraising concert by True Bublé – a 5-star tribute act. A truly mesmerising, smooth, classy singer who brings life to the finest tribute to Michael Bublé. With an incredible visual and vocal likeness to the man himself, the audience will be captivated from the very first song. Doors open 7.30pm. £15 per person. Tickets available from The Henhayes Centre (01460 74340).

On Saturday 30 April at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there’s a performance by a phenomenal duo, India Electric Co. This duo blends traditional instruments, folk melodies and subtle electronic influences to explore diverse themes from Eastern Europe, Irish traditions and modern urban alienation.

They have toured extensively throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including UK shows at The London Palladium and Hammersmith Apollo, and Glastonbury Festival appearances. Support act is songwriter Jack Cookson on acoustic guitar. Tickets £17.50, concessions £16.50. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

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Until 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.

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

On Sunday 27 March and Sunday 24 April 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 pre-book 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).

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 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.

From Monday 4 to Saturday 9 April at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, Middle Ground Theatre Company presents Agatha Christie’s ‘A Murder Is Announced’, a classic Miss Marple mystery. The residents of Chipping Cleghorn are astonished to read an advert in the local newspaper that a murder will take place this coming Friday at the home of Letitia Blacklock. They gather at the house at the appointed time. The lights go out and a gun is fired. Enter Miss Marple, who must unravel a complex series of relationships and events to solve the mystery of the killer. Check the website for performance times. Tickets £19.50 to 29.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagontheatre.co.uk.

On Friday 8 April at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, Craig Revel Horwood, star of BBC1’s Strictly Come

Craig Revel Horwood

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.

Dancing, is on his debut solo tour ‘All Balls and Glitter’. Join Craig as he talks about his life from Australia to the West End to Strictly. He reveals a wealth of backstage gossip with his trademark wit and candour, and gives a very special performance of some of the music which has been the soundtrack to his career. Suitable 16+. Tickets £25.50, concessions £23.50.

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

On Saturday 9 April at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Elvis McGonagall appears in ‘Full Tartan Jacket’.

This show by stand-up poet, comedian, broadcaster, armchair revolutionary and walking shortbread tin, Elvis, features biting and savagely funny satire in a blend of provocative verse and politically savvy stand-up comedy, all imbued with searing wit, wordplay and anarchic invective. He pulls no punches but is not afraid to be just plain daft. Suitable 16+. Tickets £11, concessions £10, available from 01460 240340 or online at www. takeart.org.

Elvis McGonagall On Wednesday 20 April, Charity Theatre Trips is offering a fundraising coach trip to Bristol Hippodrome to see an evening performance of ‘We Will Rock You’. Pick-up points are Curry Rivel, Langport, Somerton, Street, Keinton Mandeville and Shepton Mallet; see website for departure times.

Tickets £45/£58. Book online (www.charitytheatretrips.com), by email (charitytheatretrips@ btinternet.com) or by phone (01458 273085). The group takes local folk to major shows at Bristol Hippodrome and raises funds for local charities.

On Thursday 21 April at 2.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, come and celebrate in style Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum

Jubilee with Neil Sands and his wonderful West End cast in ‘Happy and Glorious’. This uplifting show will bring back golden memories with songs made famous by many of her favourite singers and stars from her Royal Command performances. Wonderful voices, spectacular costumes, a patriotic stage set and good old fashioned fun make this the perfect nostalgic way to celebrate this historic occasion.

Tickets £15, concessions £14, group tickets available. Book online at www.stur-exchange. co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Thursday 21 April at 7.00pm at The Swan Theatre, Yeovil, there is a National Theatre Live screening of ‘Henry V’. Fresh to the throne, King Henry V launches England into a bloody war with France.

When his campaign encounters resistance, this inexperienced new ruler must prove he is fit to guide a country into war. A thrilling study of nationalism, war and the psychology of power. Captured live from the Donmar Warehouse in London, this exciting modern production explores what it means to be English and the relationship with Europe. Starring Kit Harington.

Tickets £15. Buy online at www. swan-theatre.co.uk. For more information, call 07500 376031.

On Thursday 21 April at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, see Russell Kane live in ‘The Essex Variant’. Russell’s bringing to town his gut-punching funny, searing, award-winning take on the past two years.

This high-octane show brings nuclear-energy belly laughs and pant-wetting observations which prove laughter really is the best medicine! Tickets £21.50. Box office 01935 422884. www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk.

Russell Kane

On Friday 22 April at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, there’s an evening with Wayne Sleep, For the first time Wayne invites theatre audiences to join him as he looks back over a glittering career spanning over five decades, with a little bit of dance and the unique opportunity of a Q&A in the second half of the show. Tickets £22. Book online at www.sturexchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).

On Friday 22 April at 7.30pm at Penselwood Village Hall, near Wincanton, 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. Tickets £10.

To book, call 01747 840680 or book online at www.takeart.org.

On Saturday 23 April at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, enjoy a wonderful evening of warmth, wit and gentle humour with ‘Choice Grenfell’ – a tribute to Joyce Grenfell, one of Britain’s bestloved comediennes. This show features some of the best of Joyce’s delightful songs and monologues from ‘Stately as a Galleon’ and ‘School Nativity Play’ to ‘A Terrible Worrier’ and ‘First Flight’. Celebrate the genteel, generous, ground-braking genius of the incomparable Joyce, as she portrays some of her most joyful characters, ably accompanied by her trusted pianist. Directed

by Simon Downing. Tickets £15, concessions £14. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.com.

On Sunday 24 April at 8.00pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, it’s Paul Merton’s Impro Chums. Paul Merton, Richard Vranch, Suki Webster, Mike McShane and accompanist Kirsty Newton are back on the road in 2022 to visit some of their favourite parts of the UK with another evening of

mind-blowing improvisation.

The collective improvisational experience embodied in the Chums is a joy to behold, as they flex their improvisational muscles to delight and entertain. Suitable 14+. Tickets £24. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre.co.uk.

On Friday 29 April at 7.30pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, New Art Club performance company presents its latest Dance Theatre Comedy show ‘Cupid’s Revenge’. This is a joyful, physical and verbal outburst against the forces that masquerade as love. In today’s disposable world where love is used to sell everything from plug-in cars to yoghurt… where did real love go? Funny, sad and reflective, ‘Cupid’s Revenge’ is an attempt to bring audiences together in a defiant act of unity and love. Tickets £10. Book online at www.takeart.org.

Cupid's Revenge 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.

CHILDREN On Tuesday 12 April from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at Sherborne Library, join in ‘Family Fun Time’ – for crafts, colouring, decorating and more in this special event! Suitable for families with children aged 3+.

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

On Tuesday 12 and Tuesday 19 April from 11.00am to 3.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there are Family Wildflower

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29

ARTS

MOVIES

Seedbomb Crafting Sessions. Spring has sprung at the Bishop’s Palace, so come along to the Community Garden and make seedbombs! A perfect halfterm activity for kids, capturing their imagination and creativity! Seedbombs originated in New York City in the 1970s as a way to encourage wildflowers in the city. All Easter Holiday activities are included in the general admission price. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

On Thursday 14 and Thursday 21 April at 11.00am and 1.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, it’s Easter storytelling with ‘A Spring in the Tail’. Families are invited to join storyteller Beth Webb who will be celebrating the arrival of spring with family fun, spring stories and colouring.

All Easter Holiday activities are included in the general admission price. For more information, visit www.bishopspalace.org. uk or call 01749 988111.

On Saturday 23 April at 11.00am and 2.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there is storytelling and live music in ‘Straight from the Dragon’s Mouth’. Meet the UK’s only living Dragon Whisperer, Agent Green, on a live video link from the secret base at DCHQ (Dragon Conservation Headquarters). Agent Green tells thrilling Dragon Tales from around the world. Dragons can be daft, delightful – and deadly dangerous.

Agent Green has survived them all!

Suitable for 8+. Live link for stories at 11.00am and 2.30pm: each show is 45 minutes. All Easter Holiday activities are included in the general admission price. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.

On Saturday 23 April at 2.00pm and 6.00pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, it’s the Easter panto ‘The Wizard of Oz’. Join Dorothy and her pet dog Toto on this magical adventure, as they

Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the

MOVIES AROUND THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES ALI & AVA (15)

are picked up by a tornado and carried off to the magical Land of Oz. With help from their new friends, the Munchkins, they travel to the Emerald City where the great Wizard of Oz lives. Packed with brilliant dance routines, well-known pop songs, lots of audience participation and plenty of laughter for all the family!

Suitable for all ages. Tickets £20.50, concessions/child £18.50, family ticket available. Box office 01935 422884. www. octagon-theatre.co.uk.

On Saturday 30 April from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a Children’s Craft Morning. Come along and have a fun morning creating a colour flower collage in paper and fabric. For children 8 years and older. Cost £10, includes materials. To book, contact Paula directly on 01460 419264 or at hello@paulasimpson.co.uk.

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.

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!

MAY DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY 8 APRIL

Advertisements: Straight from the Dragon’s Mouth 30

MONDAY 11 APRIL

Ali and Ava, both lonely for different reasons, meet and sparks fly. Over a lunar month, a deep connection begins to grow. However, the legacy of Ava’s past relationship and Ali’s emotional turmoil at the breakdown of his marriage begin to overshadow their newfound passion.

Beautifully written, funny and warm, Ali & Ava is a keenly observed portrait of British society in the twenty-first century. Starring Adeel Akhtar and Claire Rushbrook.

SHOWING AT Batcombe on Friday 8 April, Jubilee Hall, 7.45pm. For information about Batcombe Film Society and for guest tickets, call 01749 850307.

HONEYLAND (12)

Filmed in Macedonia, the film follows the incredible true story of one woman’s elemental struggle to survive and maintain her ancient beekeeping traditions when a family of nomadic beekeepers invade her land and threaten her livelihood.

Astonishing.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 20 April, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, Swan Theatre members £4, guests £5. www. cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.

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 Halstock on Saturday 23 April, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50 from Halstock Shop or on the door. Contact: Tony Hill 01935 892485.

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.

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.

LIMBO (PG)

Set on a remote Scottish island, a group of Syrian refugees await the results of their asylum claims. Among them is Omar (Amir El-Masry), a talented young musician who has his grandfather’s oud but is unable to play it because of a broken arm. He is conflicted about his decision to leave his home country and is puzzled by the local culture. A wry and poignant comedy drama which offers a fresh perspective on the refugee experience.

SHOWING AT Crewkerne on Friday 22 April, 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.

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.

NOWHERE SPECIAL (12A)

Thirty-five-year-old window cleaner John has dedicated his life to bringing up his son Michael, after the child’s mother left them soon after giving birth. When John is given only a few months to live, he sets out, with the help of a sympathetic social worker, to find the perfect home for his young son. Starring James Norton, Daniel Lamont and Eileen O’Higgins.

SHOWING AT Hardington Mandeville on Thursday 21 April, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores (01935 862363) or £6 on the door.

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.

PIG (15)

A truffle hunter, who lives alone in the Oregonian wilderness, must return to his past in Portland in search of his beloved foraging pig after she is kidnapped.

Heading to Portland with Amir, the young man to whom he regularly sold the truffles, he re-enters the world of haute cuisine and fancy restaurants of which he was once a part. Starring Nicolas Cage, Alex Wolff and Adam Arkin.

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

Contact: 07964 294230.

South Petherton on Friday 1 April, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

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 Castle Cary on Wednesday 27 April, Caryford Community Hall, 7.30pm.

Tickets £6. Advance tickets from Tessa Gayford on 01963 350132 and The Market House.

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

Milborne Port on Friday 29 April, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Advance tickets £5 available from 1 April from Wayne Pullen, Butcher, or £6 on the door. Contact: 01963 251217.

South Petherton on Friday 29 April, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.

MOVIES

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 ADDAMS FAMILY 2 (PG)

In an attempt to grow closer as a family, Gomez, Morticia and the rest of the Addams clan embark on an adventurous road trip in a hideous and humongous camper. More wacky adventures and hilarious run-ins with all sorts of unsuspecting characters.

SHOWING AT Sturminster Newton on Thursday 14 April, The Exchange, 2.00pm. Tickets £5.

To book, call 01258 475137.

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 West Camel on Friday 29 April, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.

Yetminster on Tuesday 5 April, Jubilee Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. Advance tickets: Spar Shop. Contact: 07770 806990.

THE UNKNOWN GIRL (15)

A young female doctor ignores an out of hours call, only to discover the caller is found dead. Another morally astute and engaging social commentary from the Belgian Dardenne brothers.

SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 6 April, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, Swan Theatre members £4, guests £5. www. cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.

WEST SIDE STORY (12A)

An adaptation of the 1957 musical, West Side Story explores forbidden love and the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. Starring Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler and Ariana DeBose.

Director: Steven Spielberg.

SHOWING AT Sturminster Newton on Thursday 28 April, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5, under 18s £4. To book, call 01258 475137.

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

31

MUSIC

Music Gigs All Music Gigs are FREE entry unless mentioned.

MARCH

25 Cafe Racers, Rock/Blues, The Smithy, Charlton Musgrove, 8.30pm 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, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm

APRIL 2

Cover All Bases, Covers, The Bell Inn, Yeovil, 8.45pm Far 2 Much Stuff, Country/Pop, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.00pm

Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, The Globe Inn, Somerton, 9.00pm Silverback, Rock Covers, The Stonemasons, Ilminster, 9.00pm 9

Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm Cover All Bases, Covers, The Preston, Yeovil, 8.45pm

Powercut, Rock/Pop Covers, White Hart Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm The Disciples, Pop/Rock, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.00pm 15 The Mo Joes, Blues Rock, Bar 5, Crewkerne, 9.00pm 16 Rock-it Fuel, Rock/Pop Covers, The Beehive, Yeovil, 9.00pm

Unknown Identity, Covers, The Bell Inn, Yeovil, 9.00pm

17 Rod`s Faces Tribute Band, Rod Stewart/Faces Tribute Band, The Lord Nelson, Norton-sub-Hamdon, 8.00pm

22 Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, Haselbury Mill, Haselbury Plucknett, 8.00pm 24 Lewis & The Sound of the Suburbs, Ska/2-Tone, The Black Horse, Yeovil, 3.00pm 29 Ollie Back & Sam On The Fiddle, Pop/Folk, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm 30 Kingfisher, Acoustic Covers, The Stonemasons, Ilminster, 9.00pm Powercut, Rock/Pop Covers, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.00pm Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, The Bell Inn, Yeovil, 9.00pm Silverback, Rock Covers, The 94 Club, Yeovil, 9.00pm

The Magic Badgers, Classic Rock, The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet, 8.00pm

BOOKS

IN PRAISE OF HOSPITAL RADIO

By Steve Haigh, Station Manager, Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM I began my broadcasting career in hospital radio. I was just 14 when I joined Radio Barnsley at the YMCA in my home town.

I remember that pinned to the studio wall was a list of banned songs. It made it very clear that playing ‘Stairway to Heaven’, ‘Suicide is Painless’ or ‘I Just Died in Your Arms Tonight’ were sackable offences.

The ruling was eventually dropped and any song, regardless of its title and lyrics, could be played. It showed that hospital radio had a sense of humour.

Many hospital stations closed due to a lack of space within buildings, lack of funding and shortage of volunteers. I’d like to think that local stations, like Radio Ninesprings, filled the gap they have left behind. For example, at bedsides at Yeovil Hospital, Radio Ninesprings now occupies the spot on the dial that was previously Radio Camelot.

Hospital radio had a purpose in the days when I was a volunteer DJ. But when mobile phones and laptops were allowed at the bedside and patients could listen to whatever songs they liked, hospital radio became less of a choice.

In my day, hospital radio was simple. The DJ would play songs that patients wanted to hear, interspersed with snippets of local news and information.

There were no music beds or ad breaks. No shock jocks. It was basic radio and patients loved it.

One casualty of the decline was Radio Camelot at Yeovil Hospital. The station closed in 2018 after broadcasting to patients and staff for more than 40 years.

The British Medical Association claimed hospital radio was beneficial to patients, that it helped them to feel better and put a smile on their faces.

I remember visiting their studio and meeting the volunteers.

They told me that when a record request was played, it brought happiness to a patient.

They had a close relationship with their audience. Step out of the studio door and they would be on the wards, gathering song requests, chatting to patients.

For this reason, long may those few stations that remain live on.

As I was leaving Radio Camelot, I recall the red light going on, the DJ leaning into the microphone and saying – this next record is for Chris on Kingston, it’s The Killers.

New Local Radio Station for Yeovil and South Somerset

Their studio was equipped with the usual clutter of CDs, vinyl records, paper cups and chaotic notice boards. I

R ADIO 104.5 FM

32

remember a sign above the studio clock that read ‘Think Patient’. They were a happy bunch of enthusiasts who always put patients first.

The days of the banned record had gone and been replaced with a sense of humour. And, as humour is sometimes the best tonic, that can only have been a good thing.

SPRINGS

You can’t get more Local!

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

BOOK REVIEW

By Wayne, Winstone’s

Given what is going on in the world today, this month’s selection has a political theme. A fascinating and timely book by Oliver Bullough on how our capital became Londongrad and an incisive account of the second most powerful unelected woman in the UK today.

Butler to the World: How Britain became the servant of oligarchs, tax dodgers, kleptocrats and criminals

by Oliver Bullough hbck £20

How did Britain become the servant of the world’s most powerful and corrupt men? From accepting multi-millionpound tips from Russian oligarchs to enabling Gibraltar to become an offshore gambling haven, meet Butler Britain...

The Suez Crisis of 1956 was Britain’s twentieth-century nadir, the moment when the once superpower was bullied into retreat.

In the immortal words of former US Secretary of State Dean Acheson, ‘Britain has lost an empire and not yet found a role.’

But the funny thing was, Britain had already found a role. It even had the costume. The leaders of the world just hadn’t noticed it yet.

Butler to the World reveals how the UK took up its position at the elbow of the worst people on earth: the oligarchs,

kleptocrats and gangsters. We pride ourselves on values of fair play and the rule of law, but few countries do more to frustrate global anti-corruption efforts. We are now a nation of Jeeveses, snobbish enablers for rich halfwits of considerably less charm than Bertie Wooster.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

‘Brilliant’ Marina Hyde, Guardian ‘A savage analysis of Britain’s soul. As essential as Orwell at his best’ Peter Pomerantsev ‘Horribly brilliant’ James O’Brien

First Lady: Intrigue at the Court of Carrie and Boris Johnson

by Michael Ashcroft hbck £20 Carrie Johnson is not only the consort of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, she is also considered by some to be the second most powerful unelected woman in Britain after the Queen.

Since she moved into Downing Street in July 2019, questions have been raised about her perceived influence, her apparent desire to control events and the number of her associates who have been appointed to positions of standing in the government machine. So, are these concerns justified? In this carefully researched unauthorised biography, Michael Ashcroft charts the extraordinary ascent of Mrs Johnson, speaking to multiple sources who have been close to her and to Boris Johnson in recent years to produce a fascinating portrait of a woman who is still under the age of thirty-five.

The book scrutinises Mrs Johnson’s colourful family, her attempt to become a professional actress and her early

decision to work in politics. Long before she moved into No. 10, Mrs Johnson made a name for herself as a Conservative Party press aide before becoming a special adviser to two Cabinet ministers and eventually director of communications at Conservative campaign headquarters.

Aside from politics, she is also the mother of two young children and campaigns in the fields of the environment and animal welfare. Carrie Johnson is without doubt a very modern prime ministerial spouse. This examination of her career and life offers the electorate the chance to assess exactly what role she plays in Boris Johnson’s unpredictable administration and why that matters.

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

33

MOTORING

LIFESTYLE

TEST DRIVING THE JAG XE

By Tim Saunders, Motoring Correspondent The Jaguar XE is a dazzlingly sleek sports saloon, and finished in striking red it is exceptionally desirable. But is it family friendly?

As a driver’s car it takes some beating. This low-slung cat will hit 60mph from standstill in under seven seconds and go on without complaint to 146mph.

This is a mild hybrid, very similar to a self-charging hybrid but with a smaller battery. It is comfortable and responsive, although in eco mode there is a slight delay from the automatic gearbox when setting off but this can be improved by going into dynamic mode. Surprisingly there are no paddle shifts. A neat touch on the side of the black leather front seats is a label informing us of Jaguar’s heritage. Not long now till the brand is 100 years old. It shares some design features with Land Rover, for instance, the knob for turning on the radio. While the temperature dials are certainly a clever design they do take some getting used to. A single dial incorporates everything from the speed of the fan to the overall temperature of both the car and the driver’s seat; same for the front passenger. The speed and sat nav directions are cleverly projected onto the windscreen in front of the driver, which is helpful.

Reversing the Jag off the driveway with the five of us

inside results in it scraping its bottom on the ridge of our drive. This is annoying, so everyone has to get out before we park it on there again.

The same issue arises when I drive the Bentley Flying Spur.

You would think that if these cars are going to be so low that there would be a sensor to automatically raise the suspension for unfriendly road surfaces – and let’s face it there are plenty of those about.

Externally, the bright red finish and split-spoke silver wheels make for an eye-catching car that even drivers of more expensive Mercedes and Porsches have to acknowledge.

It is quite clear that these days Britain’s roads sadly cannot cope with the level of traffic on them. A drive to Sherborne should only take an hour and a half but takes us three.

There’s always a problem on a motorway so I enjoy finding country lanes where at least the traffic is moving. There’s an absolutely magnificent straight stretch of road – the A30 from Sherborne to Dorchester – and despite all the grockles (Dorset for holidaymakers) being out and about we travel along this road at a wonderful time. There are three vehicles in front of us, a tractor at the front and not an oncoming vehicle in sight for at least half a mile. This is too good an opportunity to miss and the Jaguar does not disappoint in the slightest.

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.

INSPIRATIONS FOR THE CURIOUS SHOPPER

By Dawn Woodward, The Emporium, Yeovil

This month we start by bringing you news of many fabulous new traders who’ve recently joined us.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Jaguar XE D200 S RWD Auto Price as tested: £36,215 0 to 60mph: 6.9secs Top speed: 146mph Economy: 50mpg approx.

CO2: 127 to 142g/km Engine: 2-litre mild hybrid electric Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz

Now only

£895

for a fully fitted electric garage door.

Cafe news Our lovely covered courtyard garden is now open for alfresco dining and relaxed open-air drinks! Our garden is full of herbs and flowers, and is a natural place of relaxation and beauty. It’s a wonderful sanctuary of calm and nature, now available for your bookings.

WAS £1,354 INCLUDING VAT.

Brewers Garage.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2020 14:23 Page 1 WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR:

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

• DIAGNOSTICS • MOT • SERVICING

• REPAIRS • AIR CON SERVICING • TYRES

Call us on 01935 34

812720

FREE EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING 2 REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS

Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space.

Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely FREE of charge.

Speckled Earth is a must if you’re a lover of natural stone and crystal jewellery. This designer stock is outstanding, beautifully designed and made with such precision, perfect accessories exuding effortless style.

Please see our social media platforms for details of what’s included in this fabulous treat, or contact us on 01935 411378 to book your place.

Events We have some really great events happening in April!

•

8 April. An evening with Jamie Witt. Sorry, this event has sold out.

•

13 April. We launch our first ever Blues Jam Night, an incredible opportunity for musicians to join in with a brilliant blues band and for music lovers to enjoy listening. Bar and light refreshments available throughout the evening.

•

21 April. An evening of live music from Grace and Larry, along with supper and drinks.

•

23 April. New Traders’ Open Day. Our monthly open day when we welcome new traders, discuss trading opportunities and learn about the requirements of local independent traders hoping to join us. Please come along between 10am and 4pm if you’d like to chat about joining us as a trader.

The mix of 65+ dedicated traders within The Emporium brings a unique experience to our customers. If you’ve not visited us recently, come on in!

*

• • • • •

BoyToyz, specialising in militaria, is a fine example of a successful start-up! We couldn’t be happier as this shop has been an instant hit with our customers.

CALL US TODAY ON:

01963 530 075 MOBILE:

07537 149 128

Easter Afternoon Tea Following on from the many ‘themed’ afternoon teas we’ve served, this month we launch our special Easter Afternoon Tea, being served from Saturday 9 April to Saturday 16 April.

See our website for further details on all of these events.

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 35

FOOD & DRINK

TRY SOME HIGH ENERGY BALLS!

By Khrishma Preston, The Alternative Indian

Is anyone else a little happier in themselves now the days have started getting longer and a tad bit warmer? The smell of spring has been in the air for a while and, as the days roll, optimism about the future is constantly fraught with new and bigger challenges.

Everything is once again in jeopardy, the business that scraped by through Covid and Brexit supply chain issues are now faced with impacts felt by the war in Ukraine. These multiple ‘walls’ continuously increasing costs are a massive blow to the small independent businesses out there. With the drastic increase in fuel prices and energy prices seen

through March and into April, I fear it will only worsen. Thus, supporting your local high street and businesses is going to be more important than ever.

March saw the ‘Totally Locally Fortnight’ where cities, towns, and villages across the country took part in a ‘Fiver Fest.’

Within Crewkerne, where I am based, 36 local businesses took part. Crewkerne is a classic example of a high street that has been suffering for a few years. It is not the only one.

Several small independents I have spoken to over the last couple of weeks across the South Somerset and West

Oaty Chai Energy Balls No Bake - Makes 18-20

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped small

• ½ cup walnuts

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp cacao nibs or mini chocolate chips

• ½ cup peanut butter (or almond butter)

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

METHOD In a large bowl combine the oats, Chai Masala Mix, espresso or coffee powder, chia seeds, and cacao nibs or mini chocolate chips. Add in nut butter, honey or brown rice syrup, and vanilla extract. Use a sturdy spatula or spoon to combine. Once ingredients have come together, place the bowl in the freezer for about 10 minutes (or fridge for 20 minutes). The cold mixture will make forming the energy balls a lot easier. Using a tablespoon, scoop mixture into rounded balls and roll between palms to shape.

Enjoy with your morning chai or coffee! Store the balls in a container in the fridge for about 2-3 weeks.

The balls also keep well in the freezer in an airtight container for about 3-4 months.

Bring this tokenEaster withweekend) you to (Excluding (Excluding Easter weekend) claimthis this offer Bring token with you to

Bring this token with you to claim claim this this offer offer

No Bake - Makes 18-20

• 2 tsp Chai Masala Mix

• ½ cup honey or brown rice syrup

our Restaurant (Excluding Easter weekend) ourSeasons Seasons Restaurant st th between 1 st- 30 th April between 1 - 30 April

Indulgent Cocoa Balls INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup creamy natural nut or seed butter of choice

wanted something that feels indulgent but is low carb and a healthy snack. These energy ball recipes go amazingly well as a quick craving fix anytime time of day. And work brilliantly with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

It’s National Tea Day in the UK on 21 April. Last year I gave you Pop’s morning Chai Masala recipe, which was used in my Masala Chai in the January 2021 issue of The Conduit Magazine.

Go to The Conduit website for back issues or check out www.thealternativeindian. com/recipebook. This year I

• 1¼ cup gluten-free rolled oats (If using quick oats, you might need to compensate with some coconut oil or extra nut butter) • ½ tbsp espresso powder or 1½ tbsp instant coffee (depending on preference)

36

Dorset area have said this is the year where we make or break it! So, this is a plea on behalf of all other independent businesses in the region – whatever you are looking for, please see if there is anyone local who makes, produces, or supplies it.

Enjoy complimentary Sweet treats for your table when you book for lunch in Enjoy complimentary Enjoy complimentary our Seasons Restaurant Sweet treats for your table Sweet treats for st th your table when you book lunch between 1 30 April when you book for for lunch in in

• 3 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional) • Optional - extra cocoa powder for dusting • Optional - grated coconut for dusting

METHOD In a food processor, pulse the walnuts until they are mostly ground up.

Transfer to a medium-sized bowl. Next, add the dates and cranberries to the food processor, pulse until they are finely chopped. You may need to stop several times and scrape them from the sides. This may take a while – be patient, they are sticky!! Some medium-sized chunks are OK but try and get it as finely chopped as possible. To this, then add the cocoa powder, peanut butter, and crushed walnuts. Pulse and mix until well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Transfer the mixture to the bowl used for the walnuts earlier to save on washing up and stir to make sure everything is well combined. The mixture will be thick and sticky. Add mini chocolate chips, if desired, and stir well to make sure everything is incorporated evenly.

Roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. I made two versions at the same time. Half the balls were dusted in cocoa by rolling then in a small amount of cocoa powder. The other half was rolled in grated coconut. Place on a parchment-paper-lined tray and freeze for about 15 minutes to firm them up. Remove from the freezer and enjoy, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Spa Spa SpaSpa

SpaSpa

FINEDINING DINING| |TASTING TASTINGMENU MENU | | GREAT GREATWINES WINES | | ALFRESCO ALFRESCO DINING DINING FINE AWARDWINNING WINNINGGARDEN GARDEN| |COCKTAIL COCKTAILBAR BAR | | BOUTIQUE BOUTIQUESPA SPA || LIVE LIVE MUSICIAN MUSICIAN AWARD

easonsisisa amulti multiaward-winning award-winning Restaurant the Winner easons Restaurant setsetininthe Winner Winner “Restaurant Category” “Restaurant Category” heartofofthe thelively livelyhistoric historic townofofSherborne Sherborne glorious countrysideofofDorset.

Dorset. heart town ininthetheglorious countryside FINE DINING |Category” TASTING MENU | GREAT WINES | Taste ALFRESCO DINING “RestaurantCategory” “Restaurant ofthe theWest West Taste of Taste theWest West Seasons SeasonsRestaurant, Restaurant,The TheEastbury EastburyHotel Hotel&&Spa, Spa,Longstreet, Longstreet, Sherborne Taste of ofthe Awards 2019 | Sherborne AWARD WINNING GARDEN | COCKTAIL BAR | BOUTIQUE SPA LIVE MUSICIAN Awards 2019 www.theeastburyhotel.co.uk Tel: 01935 813131 Awards 2019 www.theeastburyhotel.co.uk Tel: 01935 813131 Awards 2019 Opentotonon nonresidents residents77days daysaaweek week Open Winner easons is a multi award-winning Restaurant set in the Bookaatable tableonline online Winner Book “Restaurant Category”

“Restaurant Category”

Winner

easonsisisaamulti multiaward-winning award-winning heart of the lively historic town of Sherborne in the glorious countryside of Dorset.easons

Taste of the West

Restaura Restaura heart of the lively historic town of Sherborne in the glorious c

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINK

TALES FROM THE TRADING POST

Milborne Port’s The Clockspire welcomes you this spring From the moment you enter The Clockspire, you know you’re going to be treated to a memorable experience. Ensconced in a nineteenth-century former schoolhouse, guests step under its carefully restored stone arches and are welcomed into the most spectacular space. Large windows cast dappled light across the original features of the building, while lofted ceilings and statement chandeliers provide a touch of elegance.

Head Chef Luke Sutton and his team showcase modern English dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients, using market-led British produce and vegetables from their nearby plots at Ven House.

Service is first class yet unfussy and the general vibe is one of great value for money and warm hospitality.

Wander upstairs to the mezzanine level to find a marble-topped bar and velvet-covered stools, where you can sip a cocktail or a chilled glass of champagne.

Conduit tips: There’s a brilliant value set menu offering two courses for just £25, available Wednesday-Saturday lunch 12.00pm-2.45pm and Wednesday to Friday dinner 6.00pm-6.45pm

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 - £12.95 Adult, £11.75 OAP and £9.50 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

38

By Kate Forbes

At the beginning of March, I treated myself and two of my staff to a day out at a cheeseretailing course at the Guild of Fine Food.

SCRUMPY FRIED ASPARAGUS

By Mark Hix

As we get into asparagus season, it’s great to have a few asparagus recipes up your sleeve. At The Fox Inn, I’m doing an asparagus menu with three asparagus dishes on which will change weekly through the short season. We should celebrate particular British ingredients like this and make the most of it. Fly the flag for our British growers and avoid picking up a bunch of imported spears.

You can change the sauce according to what you have growing, in your fridge or in your hedgerows, such as ramsons (also known as wild garlic).

• 120g gluten-free Doves Farm self-raising flour • 200ml cold cider • A bunch or two of medium asparagus with the woody ends trimmed off • Oil for deep frying • Salt and black pepper For the mayonnaise: • A few leaves of wild garlic or another herb, finely chopped • 2-3tbsp good-quality mayonnaise

To make the batter, put the flour into a bowl and slowly whisk in the cider until you have a smooth consistency, then season.

Meanwhile, heat some vegetable oil to 160-180°C (320-360°F) in a deep-fat fryer or heavy-based saucepan (no more than half full).

Cut the asparagus spears in half. Test the oil by dropping in a little batter: if it lightly browns after 30 seconds or so, it’s ready.

Dip the asparagus spears into the batter. Cook them a few at a time for a minute or so until they are crisp and light golden.

Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with kitchen paper and lightly season with salt.

The thought of a training course initially filled me with dread! They bring back memories of entering a room full of people you’ve never met, being made to do teambuilding exercises and then sitting in front of a lecturer for hours.

However, the cheese-retailing course pretty much went full pelt into – take a piece of cheese and study it. It looks crumbly like a soft feta in the middle, toward the rind it is much more creamy in appearance and then at the actual rind you have a slightly off-white, grey, wrinkly dusky coating.

Excellent! Now sniff it … what does it smell of … manure?!

And how would you describe that to your customer? I would probably say it smells like manure – because that is how my brain works. But would your customer buy that cheese from you … yes absolutely, because I’m honest with my customers so they trust me!

Now taste the cheese! What does this cheese taste of – It’s creamy and nutty … now describe it without using the words creamy or nutty.

I can talk fairly knowledgeably about cheese but suddenly in that one moment my world had been flipped upside down. What sort of cream, sour cream, double cream – is it yoghurt? What sort

of nut? Peanut, hazelnut … we need more!

Then came the realisation that one small piece of cheese can taste so different depending on which bit of it you are nibbling.

The look, smell and taste from its nose to the rind can differ dramatically and can hit so many tasting notes.

The day ended with a session on pairing cheese with a drink.

Sticking my nose in a glass of pale ale I could immediately identify what sort of cheese I wanted to eat alongside it – something really earthy that tasted of hazelnut and farmyards.

A glass of whisky goes perfectly with a strong smoked cheddar and a glass of port goes with stilton, but maybe try pairing it with a softer blue creamy cheese and see where that takes you!

We came back to work the next day more knowledgeable about our cheese sales and have since spent many an hour looking, smelling and tasting the cheeses in our West Country cheese counter and then the other day I had a revelation! I tasted a piece of cheddar – and … horseradish!

I could 100% taste horseradish!

Taking the course means we are all better equipped to give you advice, bearing in mind our palates are all very different. If you would like to taste a piece of cheese before you commit to buy, please just ask. We are always willing to crack open a piece and taste it alongside you … for research purposes obviously!

In a small bowl, whisk the herbs and mayonnaise together.

To serve, spoon the sauce into serving dishes and serve the asparagus on a large serving plate or individually.

Live music at The Fox Inn! Last Thursday of every month at 7.30pm. Free entry.

39

FOOD & DRINK

TRAVEL

WELCOME TO THE VIPER COCKTAIL BAR

GIN @viper_gin

By Carl Hankey

@viperlondondrygin

From gin and botanicals to cocktails this month!

whether it be spirits like gin or garnishes such as lemons.

We were fortunate to open our very own cocktail bar and shop last July at the Kingland shopping district in the heart of Poole town centre.

Some gins are more versatile, whereas other gins lend themselves perfectly to a particular cocktail. For example, the famous Ramos Gin fizz (not an easy drink to make) is more suited to using an Old Tom gin which is usually slightly sweeter than a classic London dry.

Old Tom gins are sometimes sweetened using sugar after distillation, but some distillers use botanicals that give a sweetness to a gin, an example of such a botanical would be liquorice.

We have learnt a lot along the way from creating cocktails and designing menus. In addition, we understand what a bartender looks for from the ingredients,

The Ramos Gin Fizz was invented at the Imperial Cabinet Saloon in New Orleans in 1888

by Henry C Ramos. It’s probable that many modern London dry gins are slightly sweeter

nowadays. It’s certainly worth experimenting with different gins and styles of gin to see which works best in a finished cocktail.

Our Viper London Dry Gin works amazingly well in this cocktail. We have a bit of sweetness in our gin from liquorice and complimenting citrus notes, as the Ramos is a citrus-forward cocktail balancing sweet, sour and acidity.

As mentioned, the Ramos Gin Fizz is not an easy drink to make. This cocktail requires vigorous shaking to aerate the cream and egg white. Henry Ramos is said to have employed dozens of young people whose sole purpose was to shake the cocktail for as long as 12 minutes.

DOING THE DOUBLE! The Queen’s Arms in Corton Denham has recently won two awards in just a few weeks. The first was the Sherborne Business Awards for Best New Business. ‘Having been open just eight months, it was wonderful to have all our hard work and effort recognised’ says local owner, Doune Mackenzie-Francis.

Just two weeks later Taste of the West visited the Queen’s Arms incognito to assess the service, food and decor and declared ‘regarding our “Taste of the West” experience to date, The Queens Arms is the best establishment that we have judged so far.’

The Queen’s Arms was purchased in July 2020. It was a brave move for the new owners, who were supporters of the pub long before it came up for sale.

It hasn’t always been plain sailing since opening; ‘we've had plenty of bumps along the way, most notably due to a nationwide lack of staffing in hospitality, especially in the 40

kitchen. It means we aren’t as open as much as we’d like to be, but when we are open, we can focus efforts to give our customers the best service and food we can.’

The training of new staff seems to have worked with judges declaring ‘The staff were excellent…They were polite, very enthusiastic, and knowledgeable,’ The same praise was also held for the kitchen ‘The Queens Arms “Dining Experience” was a memorable one and this was due to the talented chefs.’

‘It is such a huge boost to morale to receive this feedback from the judges. I feel like we are now finding our feet and our vision for a good local, offering quality locally sourced food and excellent service, is starting to become a reality.’ says Doune.

The Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham, DT9 4LR | www.thequeensarms.com Open Wednesday-Saturday 9am11.30pm and Sunday 9am-5pm

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

If you like the sound of the Ramos Gin Fizz, why not visit the Viper Cocktail Bar in Poole?

We also offer a wide and unique range of locally-crafted gin and gin-based marmalades, chutneys, glassware and wine – both available to try in-store or take home. We also serve Mediterranean-style charcuterie boards, alternative spirits, beer and a cracking cocktail menu to suit a variety of tastes.

Our opening hours are: Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-8pm Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm

LAST CABINS LEFT ON POPULAR CRUISES FOR 2022/23

By Heather Muir, Manager – Miles Morgan Travel, Yeovil

As many of you will know, we have a long history of working with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and are proud to be main agent for them. Each year, we offer an exciting range of itineraries which are fully escorted by one of our experienced cruise escorts; customers return to travel with them year after year. These cruises all come with the added convenience of free return transport from Yeovil to the port, something only available at Miles Morgan Travel. Many of our escorted 2022 cruises are already full, but we do still have a few cabins left on a selection of sailings, therefore it’s not too late to join us.

If you are thinking of getting away this year and want a relaxing holiday where everything is taken care of from the moment you step on board the coach in Yeovil, then why not join us? We have eight fantastic itineraries to choose from, which are: Natural Wonders of Iceland 4 May, Norwegian Fjords 2 July, Scenic Isles of Scotland 9 July, Discover the Amalfi Coast 17 July, Scenic British Isles 1 August, UK Isles & Celtic Cities 11 Sep, European Christmas Markets 2 Dec and American Waterways & Canada in the Fall 26 September 2023.

Prices start from only £999pp, based on two sharing a cabin, but we also have single cabins available too. Seats on the coach from Yeovil are limited, so early booking is strongly recommended due to the popularity.

Many of these cruises sail from Southampton on-board Fred. Olsen’s new ship Bolette. Bolette has capacity for less than 1,400 guests. So, in keeping with the Fred. Olsen smaller-ship ethos you will find that you’re not overcrowded on board and have plenty of space in which to indulge yourself in the stylish dining venues, enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple and fantastic entertainment at the bars, lounges, and theatres, and while away the hours by the all-season pool.

Cruises for 2022/23 with free return transport to the port FROM YEOVIL

ü EXCLUSIVE TO Miles Morgan Travel ü FREE RETURN TRANSPORT To the port from Yeovil*

ü FULLY ESCORTED

By a Miles Morgan Travel Cruise Escort*

ü WELCOME PARTY

Private & exclusive to Miles Morgan Travel*

Contact us soon for itinerary details Phone lines open until 10pm

01935 428488

www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk

14-16 Middle Street Yeovil BA20 1LY

Terms & conditions apply - subject to minimum numbers

If you would like to find out more information about these cruises then please pop in and see us at 14-16 Middle Street, Yeovil, or call us on 01935 428488.

I hope that you will join us on one of these exclusive escorted cruises, where you have a chance to meet like-minded travellers, new friends, and companions. We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you soon.

41

TRAVEL

HEALTH & WELLBEING

GET READY FOR SUMMER!

EXPLORING OLD WARDOUR CASTLE

By Jill Love, Slimming World consultant Spring is peeping around the corner and some of us are ready to look forward to summer holidays. Our current Slimming World members certainly are!

But we do know there are some people wondering if they feel body confident to pop on that summer dress, t-shirt and shorts or even the dreaded swimming costume.

By Tim Saunders, Travel Correspondent

‘It’s like a Mr Bean sketch,’ says Caroline as she learns about how the rightful owner of Old Wardour Castle in Tisbury, Wiltshire, tried to win it back, ultimately destroying it forever.

There is much history to learn about this medieval castle which was built in the late 1300s and saw much life over the following 340 or so years. The architect of this castle was William Wynford who designed the nave at Winchester Cathedral.

Surprisingly there remain some ornate ceiling decorations in the entrance.

As you might expect various battles brought about this historic castle’s demise.

Nevertheless, it is an absolute gem of a find, reached by travelling down many a narrow country lane.

The best way for children to learn is by showing them something they can immerse themselves in. And this is just what they can do at Old Wardour Castle. They thoroughly enjoy tearing about the old ruins, up the narrow circular stone staircases and into the various chambers.

‘They’ll remember this in their history lessons,’ says Caroline.

On arrival they are each given an English Heritage badge and lanyard. They pretend that these are their walkie-talkies as they go on their mission to discover the place.

It is such a privilege to be able to step back in time and imagine the cooks in the kitchen. How different life was then. The lowly kitchen staff would have slept on the floor but kept warm by the enormous fires. Meanwhile the head chef had his own chamber just off the kitchen allowing him to be 42

If this, is you and you feel now is the time to start making the transformation then why not give our group a go? We have the expert advice and support to help you achieve it long before the summer.

on hand to make sure the food was cooking just so. Imagine how freezing cold this massive stone castle would have been, especially in winter, and so there must have been many fireplaces throughout. Climb to the top and a view of the lake is your reward.

The large grounds include a grotto, which was all the rage in the 1600s. These stone structures allow you to sit and admire the grounds. There is a bit of a musty smell from all the damp but again this is a big hit with the children, who walk through and explore each crevice; both Heidi (8) and Henry (5) coming out with cobwebs in their hair.

Interestingly, the castle in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman, was based on Old Wardour Castle.

We while away a whole day here, enjoying a picnic on one of the many benches. We really should be grateful to English Heritage for saving this important castle for the nation.

Imagine if some Neanderthal had bought it and set about renovating it. So many details would have been lost forever.

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

We can support you through Easter with all the tempting Easter goodies; we can support you through the bank holidays in fact we will support you all the way to your target weight! Notice the word YOUR at Slimming World; we will never tell you what you have to weigh, you choose your

own target. We support our members each week in group with complete confidentiality; no one will ever disclose your weight, and our support is without humiliation.

At Slimming World, we have over 52 years of expert advice on losing weight with a healthy life style that fits in around the family. We can teach you to plan family meals on a budget. It doesn’t have to be expensive to eat well.

We have a vast range of experience on our team. Our longest serving consultant has over 18 years of experience, and we have new consultants who have just completed their training; all are experts in weight loss and are ready to support you to get ready for summer.

To find your local group, just go on to the Slimming World website and pop in your postcode. www.slimmingworld.co.uk.

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

Jill is the Slimming World consultant for the Saturday morning group in Yeovil at the Methodist Church Hall in the Quedam.

For more information, contact Jill on 01935 824025 or 07821 015451.

The health benefits of being outdoors 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

Watch the videos at www. travelwriter.biz.

Family Staycations by Tim Saunders is out now in ebook, paperback and hardback.

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

Spending time outdoors or bringing nature into your everyday life will greatly benefit your wellbeing. For example, doing things like growing food or flowers, exercising outdoors, watching birds and being around animals can have lots of positive effects.

• support aging - adults over 70 who spent time outdoors experienced fewer sleep difficulties, complained less about aches and pains, and enjoyed improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities

or email enquiries@somersetwildlife.org or go to www.somersetwildlife.org/wildlife/ nature-reserves.

It can:

• connect you with other people as you pass by and say hello

Carymoor Environmental Centre is a nature conservation and environmental education charity based near Castle Cary.

Over 25 years, Carymoor has transformed 80 acres of capped landfill into a speciesrich nature reserve with woodland, ponds, and meadows. Carymoor runs regular volunteer days enabling people to get outside to connect with nature and take part in a range of traditional conservation activities. From hedge-laying and coppicing in the winter to planting trees and managing the wildflower meadows in the summer; there is something suitable for all ages and abilities. Get in touch if you’d like to join the friendly team, help wildlife and improve your own health and wellbeing too. To find out more, visit www. carymoor.org.uk or email info@carymoor. org.uk or call 01963 350143.

• improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress or anger • lower blood pressure • help you feel more relaxed • aid better sleep • improve focus – the natural world allows our brains to take a break from all that mentally drains us • improve physical fitness levels because you are more active • help us heal quicker – following illness or surgery people who have spent time outdoors during their recovery needed fewer pain killers and recovered more quickly • boost our intake of vitamin D which comes from sunlight – it is essential for bone growth and helps regulate our immune system

There are many walking groups and regular organised Health Walks where you can meet with others and have a guided walk led by a trained leader. These are a great opportunity to be outdoors, connecting with other people and making new friends.

To find out where your local health and walking groups are in South Somerset, you can call South Somerset District Council on 01935 462462, view or download the Health Walks leaflet (www.southsomerset. gov.uk/media/5354/step-out-and-joinour-health-walks-19.pdf) or you can call Somerset Activities and Sports Partnership on 01823 653990. For more information, visit www.sasp.co.uk/health-walks.

As a rural county, we are blessed to have some wonderful places to visit such as nature reserves: Somerset Wildlife Trust – for information about wildlife reserves, call 01823 652400

RSPB reserves – for information about RSPB reserves, call 01767 680551 or go to www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events.

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

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

43

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HEALTH & WELLBEING

WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

By Amanda Whitlock, Total Wellbeing Matters Major depression is thought to be the second cause of disability worldwide at any one time and is more common amongst women than men.

However, because it is a mental illness it can be a lot harder to understand than a physical illness, such as diabetes or heart disease.

Almost everyone feels low sometimes – this is normal. Life events such as losing a job, a relationship breakdown, failing a test, even a cloudy day can bring on feelings of low mood and sadness. Sometimes there may be no obvious cause and you just wake up feeling sad. Usually, circumstances change and you start to feel better.

Clinical depression is different.

It is a medical disorder and it generally won’t go away without support from a medical professional.

Depression can have a lot of different symptoms and can include: • persistent low mood • loss of interest in those things that normally bring you joy • change in appetite – eating too much or too little • feeling worthless • feeling guilty • change in sleeping patterns • poor concentration • tearfulness • loss of energy • short temper • thoughts of suicide If you have at least five of these symptoms according to medical

guidelines you qualify for a diagnosis of depression.

Because the symptoms of depression van vary from person to person it can be hard to identify those people who look fine but are actually struggling.

You may notice that they are always tired or more withdrawn than normal. They may be tearful or appear distracted. They may be uncooperative at work or they may have issues with timekeeping or productivity. The reality is there may be many ways in which a person may reveal they are having problems – the key is to notice a change in behaviour and then talk to them about it.

Encourage them to seek help and help them when you can.

If they are feeling guilty or ashamed, remind them that clinical depression is a medical condition, just like diabetes or high cholesterol. It is not a weakness and they shouldn’t expect themselves to simply get over it, any more than they would expect themselves to get over a broken leg.

More open conversations about mental health are needed if we are to reduce stigma and make it easier for people to ask for help.

When you have a conversation with someone who has depression, avoid comparing it to the times that you have had a bad day. By comparing their experiences to your normal feelings of a temporary low mood is disrespectful. It can also lead them to feel guilty for asking for help.

Visit www.mind.org.uk for further information.

WHY PAIN IS PRODUCED AS A PROTECTIVE MECHANISM

By Dr Andrea Haas

We know so much more about pain now, and there are many aspects that affect pain and why it occurs. In this article we’ll discuss the brain’s link with pain.

The brain – and I did say ‘brain’ – produces pain as a protective mechanism. Whether it is from an acute injury such as spraining your ankle or breaking a bone or pain you have had for months or even years, the brain decides whether it is best to produce pain or not.

My clients often say to me ‘so you’re telling me it is all in my head?’ Well, actually it is. When we bash our hand, although we feel the pain in our hand, nerves in the area send messages up the arm to the brain. The brain then decides what to do with these messages, and it may not be in our best interest for the brain to produce pain at that time.

Let’s look at some examples: a footballer who sprains his ankle mid match but is unaware he has done so until the end of the match. During the match the footballer has adrenalin in his system which stimulates the release of natural pain killers. However, this is also a very important match and on a subconscious level the player doesn’t want to let his team players down; winning is far more important. When the match is over, though, the brain produces pain to prevent the player standing on his ankle, forcing him to rest up and allowing the sprain to heal.

Similarly, there are people in

minor car accidents, who were not aware of any pain until safe and secure back at home.

Phantom limb pain is another good example to prove that pain is generated within the brain. Amputees invariably suffer from strange sensations in the ‘foot or leg’ such as itching and tingling and, less commonly, pain. They can also feel the foot moving. The area in the brain which represents the foot is still active.

Persistent pain, pain which has been present for more than three months, is no different.

When I ask my clients if they have times when their pain is better, the answer is often an emphatic no. With more indepth questioning, it turns out that their pain waxes and wanes through the course of the day, or weeks, very much depending on what is happening. Persistent pain is no different to acute pain – it is produced to protect us from some ‘perceived’ danger.

This is at a subconscious level.

On a personal level, if someone has upset me it is easier for me to deal with a headache than the emotions that it has triggered. If someone is going through a messy divorce or has been made redundant or has lost someone close to them, pain may be a ‘safer’ option to feeling those emotions.

Next month I will be exploring the concept of ‘neuroplasticity’, the brain’s ability to rewire itself, and how this influences pain.

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45

HEALTH & WELLBEING

WHAT IS COACHING?

By Tracy Frost

Coaching, whether it be Holistic Life, Inner Child, Business, Emotional or any other form of coaching, and there are many more out there, is a space to explore your future. Coaches put together, with your input, a personal framework for you to work with to expand your thinking, your way of living and your business – you name what you need. It has to be personal to you, for your needs, because everyone’s needs are different even if they look the same or similar.

Coaches will work with you and fine tune what is important and what will help you move forward.

Client and coach come up with practical and achievable goals; those goals can be broken down into manageable bite-size

actions so that no one becomes overwhelmed. Becoming overwhelmed is one of the reasons people fall short of their goals; it seems too big, too scary, too daunting.

Once these goals or stepping stones have been agreed upon, it is then up to the client to start. The coach is there to help make it feel safe and doable because, mostly, people come to work with a coach to change something in their life.

Coaching is important as it creates a space to explore who you are and where you want to go, with no judgment. As coaches, we are not here to say what is right or wrong for you, because as human beings we are all individual.

Inner Sparkle Tracy Frost

Aroma Touch Holistic Life Coach Essential Oils Reiki Coaches work with you to achieve your desires. We want you to succeed. We want to see your brilliance and that Inner Sparkle shine. It is these new found steps that create the life that you would like and are choosing to live, and by doing that it allows others to see that it really can be done.

Remember, it is not the coach’s job to change your life, it is YOUR job. We as coaches encourage, explain, act as a sounding board, meet you where you are, and give you a framework to work within and maybe push against, so that you find your own full potential.

07401 520794 tj.frost@live.com @tjInnerSparkle www.inner-sparkle.com It may be said that working with a coach is costly. Yes, it will involve an investment and what better investment than yourself both emotionally and physically, but think about how costly it may be not to have a coach?

As Albert Einstein used to say: ‘If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got.’

Coaches help you to get out of your own way and do life differently, so that you can create a life that you love to live.

I am here to help people find their Inner Sparkle, be it through coaching, essential oils, inner child work or reiki.

Much love until next time.

heals, there are some who will experience symptoms for a long time after their injury and sometimes for life.

Acquired Brain Injury Across Somerset, about 3000 people every year are admitted to hospital with an ABI caused by trauma such as stroke, infection, a road traffic, sporting or industrial accident or simply a fall. In addition to this total, there is a significant number of people sustaining injuries such as small blows to the head, who do not seek or receive medical attention despite experiencing symptoms such as persistent headaches, difficulty concentrating and problems with vision.

Headway Somerset supports clients and their families in many different ways.

Brain injuries can cause temporary or permanent changes in the way we think, our mobility, behaviour and emotions: some, particularly those caused by damage to the front of the brain, can lead to problems with planning and making decisions. Although many individuals will go on to make a full recovery as the brain

Hospital Liaison Service A key service is the Hospital Liaison Service, based at Musgrove Park Hospital, which supports families when their loved one is in hospital and assists them through the transition back to life at home.

Day Centres With day centres in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, West Camel and Henton, individuals can find assistance with rehabilitation and meet with others who have also experienced and continue to experience the effects of ABI. The centres also give family members a break from day-to day caring as the impact of brain injury can be profound, not only for the individual with the injury but also for family members.

Information Line The Information Help Line, launched in June 2021, signposts users and families on where to go and who to contact for a range of useful services.

Outreach The charity also offers an outreach service, where support workers will visit people’s homes to work with clients and their families.

How you can help Headway Somerset Volunteering – Be a Buddy As people make their recovery from an ABI, Headway Somerset is there to support them in reconnecting to their local community and interests. The charity is looking to expand its pool of volunteer befrienders – Buddies, who help their befriended person to plan that reconnection and support them in putting that plan in to action. Buddies can also offer befriending at a distance, providing a social contact

KEEPING TODAY’S YOUNGER GENERATION ACTIVE AND HEALTHY

By Gemma Hole The UKActive guidelines recommend children from the age of five years should be doing at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity every day.

ADVERTORIAL

MAKING HEADWAY WITH HEADWAY Headway Somerset is a countywide charity helping people and their families to live with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI).

HEALTH & WELLBEING

through telephone, Zoom, letter and email. All volunteers will receive initial and ongoing training, regular supervision and be part of a supportive team.

Contact Tricia, coordinator for Making Headway, at Tricia@ headwaysomerset.org.uk.

Fundraising Without Headway Somerset, people, carers and families would be unsupported and isolated in so many aspects of their lives. The charity is selffunding and dependent on donations, grants and income through fundraising. If you would like to organise a fundraising activity we would be delighted to talk to you.

Contact Krista Felek, fundraising and communications manager, to discuss ideas for fundraising, becoming a Corporate Sponsor and Legacy giving. Krista@ headwaysomerset.org.uk.

For more information, go to our website www.headwaysomerset.org.uk

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Getting this level of activity is fine during the school term as they have two short breaks, morning and afternoon, with a longer lunch break which is usually filled with them running around playing different games with their friends. Add to that a choice to walk to school in the morning and afternoon plus a couple of clubs a week and we are confident, as parents, that they are getting those 60 minutes a day that they need.

It is, however, very difficult to get this level of activity during the holidays when many of us are like birds on the nest, Mum tagging Dad quickly as they pass off to work and making sure that the little ones are cared for.

Luckily, we have options. As a parent you can have a look around and choose some good clubs for them to join in the holidays and there are plenty about. You can choose just a morning's activity, a day or a week, whichever suits you best. This way they get the

vigorous levels of exercise that they need and are excited in the morning and content when they get home. Add to this a day in the garden with friends and perhaps a visit out and you’ve suddenly got a wellrounded week in which the kids are happy and energized and you are not on your knees by the end of it!

At Oxley Sports Centre we offer holiday activities in the school holidays and not just any activities either, hamsterballs in the swimming pool, sporting games, arts and crafts, talent shows and super science days, to name but a few, and with the best will in the world it’s hard to give children that level of fun and activity at home. So come on give it a try!

If you would like more information on all our children’s activities, please call Oxley Sports Centre on 01935 818277 or visit our website www.oxleysc.com. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Keep the children entertained this Easter with our holiday activities. osc_info@sherborne.com

www.oxleysc.com

47

PET HEALTH

HISTORY

BEING A CAT-FRIENDLY PRACTICE

By Becca Ferne BSc (Hons), MSc, RVN

At Newton Clarke Vets, we acknowledge that cats possess unique behaviours and requirements when compared to our canine and small furry patients. Cats are incredibly sensitive, solitary creatures who may feel stressed and/or unsafe when away from their home territory. The journey, sights, sounds and smells associated with a visit to the vets can often have a negative impact on our cats. As an ISFM Silver accredited Cat Friendly Clinic, we endeavour to make your visit to our practice a positive, stressfree experience for both you and your cat wherever possible.

A Cat Friendly Clinic is a veterinary practice which has been recognised and accredited by the ISFM (International Society of Feline Medicine) as providing an exceptional standard of care to their

feline patients. This includes us meeting certain criteria and high standards required by the ISFM enabling us to achieve a Silver Cat Friendly Clinic accreditation. At Newton Clarke Vets, we recognise signs of stress, anxiety and fear in our feline patients and try to minimise anything which may induce such emotions including loud noises, smells and contact with other patients. Moreover, we promise to approach, handle and treat your cat with understanding, gentleness and respect at all times and to avoid heavy manual restraint wherever possible. Our team have also pledged to go 'scruff-free'; this means we never utilise scruffing as a routine method of handling or restraint unless there is an imminent risk of significant injury to ourselves or the cat, but we believe this should rarely

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

be necessary as there is usually a better alternative.

We also have a team who have undertaken further felinespecific education or training and have a particular interest in feline care and medicine, which has led to us obtaining cat-specific facilities and equipment. We will always be happy to discuss your cat’s diagnosis, treatment and recovery plan with you in a sensitive manner to ensure you understand the aims and outcomes. The practice is an ISFM member, which gives all our team access to further training, courses and specialist feline updates.

Whilst a Cat Friendly Clinic requires the involvement and support of all team members including veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, animal care assistants and receptionists,

each accredited practice has at least one 'Cat Advocate'. This is an individual member of staff who promotes and ensures that cat-friendly standards of care are adhered to. Our Cat Advocate is myself, Becca Ferne; I have a particular love for our feline friends and have undertaken a number of training courses regarding cats and their requirements. I am also looking forward to starting the ISFM Certificate in Feline Nursing in March.

We hope that our Silver ISFM Cat Friendly Clinic accreditation gives you the peace of mind that your cat is in very safe hands with us. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding our Cat Friendly Clinic criteria and how it is being met, please do contact us and we would be happy to speak with you.

A ‘NUISANCE’ IN NEWLAND - THE MASONS’ ARMS, SHERBORNE

By Barry Brock

Walk east down Newland in Sherborne, past the Manor House, and arrive at a row of cottages, the

second of which is the site of an old beerhouse, the Masons’ Arms. This name wasn’t used on inn signs until early in the nineteenth century – adopted when skilled workers used inns for meetings, or maybe

NATURE SPOT April is the month when our local butterfly population really start to get going and visitors will be coming from near and far hoping to get a photograph or even catch a glimpse of the Duke of Burgundy. In terms of individuals, this butterfly may now be even more scarce than the Large Blue, traditionally considered the rarest of our 58 species.

Whilst only found in patches of England, we are privileged to have several sites locally where it can be spotted even though numbers are rarely more than around a dozen butterflies per colony.

Whilst locally quite common, the Green Hairstreak is overlooked and few have seen 48

it. The Green Hairstreak is the UK’s only green butterfly and is both small and extremely well camouflaged as it rests on its favourite plant including hawthorn, gorse and broom.

We have some large colonies in the area and it’s well worth getting off the beaten track to get a glimpse of this stunning little butterfly.

The Orange Tip is unmistakeable, especially the male. It is a white butterfly, half of its forewing is a bold orange, and it has light grey wing tips.

Both sexes have mottled green patterns on the underside of their wings when at rest. The Orange Tip is a true sign of spring, being one of the first species to emerge that has not overwintered as an adult.

to indicate the landlord’s primary trade. There were several masons living in Newland then, although the landlord in the 1861 census was James Hoddinott, a carpenter, not a mason.

It is especially abundant along waterways, like ditches, brooks and rivers, where its food plants such as cuckooflower, garlic mustard and hedge mustard thrive.

The Green Veined White is another common butterfly of our local hedgerows, gardens and parks. Whilst similar to other white butterflies, it has prominent green strips on the underside of its wings. It especially likes damp areas with lush vegetation, watercress being one of its favourite host plants.

All of these butterflies were photographed by our local nature photographer Colin Lawrence.

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

William Pegg was landlord in 1871.

Originally from Suffolk, he met Emma, his bride-to-be, while they worked for Debenhams in London’s Wigmore Street.

Emma was a Dorset girl and happy to move to Sherborne, but then William died young, aged just 37 years, and the licence was transferred to her. The licence was next transferred to Samuel Miles, and at the licensing hearing it was asked whether Samuel was a suitable person, being blind.

But Samuel was not totally blind, and he would have help, as he was shortly to marry the widow of the late landlord - the marriage to Emma took place two days later. Samuel died in 1896, and the licence was transferred back to Emma, who ran the Masons’ Arms on her own until 1900, when she married her third husband, William Wiscombe. Notwithstanding these transfers and marriages, when Emma died in 1911, she had been landlady of the Masons’ Arms for over forty years.

Problems developed with the cottages behind the beerhouse, known in Sherborne as a ‘drain’ – a passageway leading to a row of other dwellings. In 1913 the police expressed concern about sanitation, which they discussed with the owner of the brewery, who agreed to demolish some of the cottages, build a wall to cut off the remainder and build a new urinal; but with war imminent, these alterations went undone.

After the war the licensing magistrates suggested the house was badly conducted and would be closed if things were not resolved, but the ‘nuisance’ remained.

Finally, the medical officer recommended closure if nothing was done about the lavatory’s close proximity to the adjoining cottages. So, in 1934 the magistrates (who had long thought there were too many public houses in Sherborne) declared the Masons’ Arms redundant. The landlord submitted a petition that carried

little weight with the bench, as several signatures were in the same handwriting – he explained this was because one man had signed for all the grown-up members of his family! The County Licensing Committee confirmed the magistrates’ decision, discounting with disbelief the suggestion that improvements to the Abbey’s Lady Chapel had improved trade!

Ownership eventually passed from the Dorsetshire Brewery to West Dorset District Council, who organised demolition and rebuilding. The clerk of works considered that the Masons’ Arms had been old, a three-roomed cross-passage property dating to 1600-1650, and he recalled how the old stone was reused to make the road frontage similar to what had gone before – looking just like the original.

Thanks to Sue Detain for her drawing of the Masons’ Arms.

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49

WALKING

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

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A DIFFERENT KIND OF SPRING

So, rather than suggesting the best places to spot spring flowers, new born lambs and other seasonal stereotypes, I thought I’d research springs that you can maybe reach or hunt out for yourselves.

Cards fully on the table, this is new territory for me. Before writing this, I couldn’t point you at many springs at all. Even Yeovil’s famous Nine Springs has left me being able to find

A search on www.findaspring. com and local OS maps was disappointing. The website shows just five fresh springs in North Somerset, around Mendip, Wells, Frome and Glastonbury. We probably all know about the famous thermal springs in Bath. Interestingly none showed up in Dorset and Ninesprings in Yeovil fails to feature at all.

OS maps show points where bogs form which could be a result of springs, or commonly waterlogged areas post rainfall.

So, what causes a natural spring?

Springs form when pressurised groundwater or aquifer (an

underground layer of waterbearing permeable rock) flow onto the surface of the land.

They might form in a valley bottom, side of a hill or in any kind of rock. They get classified into various types such as seepage, artesian and tubular…

I’ve found nothing to explain what type of each spring we have in North Somerset but let’s see if we can guess…

Seepage is a small puddle of water where groundwater seeps onto the surface. It forms where aquifer water runs downhill and collects in an area of lower elevation.

Where there’s an abundance of groundwater in elevated areas, it can also occur. What I came across was seepage, but of the manmade kind.

Artesian springs happen when groundwater discharges along faults, joints or fissures

50

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I was walking my dogs recently and came across water bubbling up from the ground and running across my path.

at best four or five points of groundwater appearing.

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By Rachel Woods

Ok, so this water turned out to be from a leaky pipe but in that moment, a little spark was created which has turned into a bit of a mission. The trickle got me thinking about springs and whether we have any natural springs in Somerset (outside of the famous ones in Bath and Glastonbury).

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Caves, sinkholes and springs form when the foundation of these caves collapse, it takes thousands of years for a tubular spring to form so, if that’s what we have on the Mendips – they’ve worked extremely hard to be here!

There’s a lesson here in the reliability of Google to find local features, such as springs!

If you know of, or find, springs in our wonderful counties, do let me know and I’ll collate them and share in a later edition. Happy hunting.

@conduitmag

White Knight tumble dryer, max load 3kg, good condition £20 ‘Mercury’ light industrial sewing machine, in working order but needs some attention, table included Offers Swivel office chair, Royal blue, in good order £20 Tel: 01935 814644 (Sherborne) Small ‘Erde’ camping trailer, galvanised steel, new electrics £165 Corner cubicle shower complete with tray and cubicle £75 Tel: 07833 453295 (Charlton Mackrell)

MAY DEADLINES

in bedrock and might flow on valleys and cliffs.

Tubular springs form part of a topographic system called ‘karst’ and are associated with limestone, volcanic lava tubes and caverns, which could well explain what we have in the Mendips where caves are a feature and limestone is extremely common.

Mothercare folding high chair, orange and white striped seat with white tray £10 Mothercare folding travel cot, grey £15 Both items in very good condition, only used occasionally for visiting grandchildren Tel: 01460 52645 (Ilminster)

Feeling anxious?

Simple breathing exercises could help

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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