Crossing counties, look inside for info on the best events and activities in West Dorset and South Somerset
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THE FLEET AIR ARM MUSEUM OFFERS A SPECTACULAR DAY OUT WITH A DIFFERENCE
Issue 256 July 2022
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From the Editor And just like that, it’s the summer holidays again with plenty to see and do in our locality. When my children were small, one of my favourite places to visit was the Fleet Air Arm Museum which takes pride of place on the July front cover. We always used to love the immersive Carrier Experience which from the end of July has been upgraded and promises to thrill young and old alike. A visit there is a great way to learn about our history and the refurbished cafe, named after pilot Rex Warneford who was awarded the Victoria Cross, is definitely not to be missed. Reading about local history is usually fascinating, don’t miss Barry Brock’s article on The George Inn located in Sherborne. It was first mentioned during The Wars of The Roses and is still serving beer after 600 years – no mean feat given the fate of other public houses in our neck of the woods! Where’s your favourite pub? Let us know and we may feature it in future issues. Enjoy summer!
Contents
EDITOR & ADVERTISING Jane Adkins
ASSISTANT EDITOR Julie Locke
AUGUST DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 15 JULY Advertisements: MONDAY, 18 JULY
WHAT’S ON p4-9 Info on markets, workshops & social activities
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT p10
New business on the block
GARDENING p12-14 Outdoor spaces and gardening
ARTS p19-27
Exhibitions, Music, Gigs & Movies
MOTORING
p31 Meet the hybrid Highlander
FOOD & DRINK p32-34
Celebrating local food & drink
HEALTH & WELLBEING p37-39 Mind over matter works
HISTORY p41
Still serving after 600 years
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.
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What’s On WHAT’S ON
Charity ONLINE St Margaret’s Hospice Care Weekly Prize Draw The draw takes place every Friday (advance notice given if the draw day changes) and each chance costs just £1. All of the profits raised from the hospice draw provide vital funding to help St Margaret’s support patients and families facing the challenge of a life-limiting illness. For further information about the prize draw and other ways of supporting St Margaret’s Hospice Care, please visit www.st-margarets-hospice. org.uk. SHERBORNE School Readers Required! The Schoolreaders charity provides volunteers to listen to children read in primary schools, at no cost to the school. No experience needed, just a good command of the English language and a spare hour or two a week in term time. Illiteracy affects all areas of life! If willing to help, please complete the online application at www. schoolreaders.org or call the Schoolreaders team on 01234 924111. SHERBORNE Volunteer drivers required! Sherborne Voluntary Ambulance (SVA) provides transport for older local residents to take them on regular shopping trips, on day excursions, and to attend regular local events such as the RVS lunch club sessions. All drivers are volunteers. The chairman of the SVA board of trustees is a local doctor who is passionate about using the ambulance, aka the Red Bus, to encourage older
people, still fearful of leaving their homes, to get out and enjoy themselves! If interested and have a few hours to spare each week, please contact John Miller on 01935 873784 or at denis70john@sky.com. Clean licence and D1 category required. For more information, see the SVA Facebook page. YEOVIL Hospital Charity Appeal The new Breast Cancer Unit will cover South Somerset and parts of North Dorset. The communities from these catchment areas have been truly inspirational in their support of the appeal. The total is now £2,123,000 but the charity still has to find another £377,000, so the appeal for unwanted/broken jewellery and watches continues, as well as the talks. To donate to the appeal or if interested in arranging a talk to find out what the charity does with the jewellery, please call Maggie (appeal committee member) 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! MARTOCK Every fourth Friday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at Martock Parish Hall, there is a coffee morning. Coffee and homemade cakes. Everyone welcome! MILBORNE PORT Every Friday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at WI Room, Town Hall. Coffee, tea, cakes and biscuits. All welcome.
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
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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)
Contact: Julie Locke
/theconduitmagazine
E: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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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. Bottle top collection in aid of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Profits from the Village Cafe over the next few months will be donated to the Lord’s Larder Food Bank in Yeovil. SHERBORNE Every Thursday from 10.00am to 11.30am at Cheap Street Church Hall is Coffee Time. Everyone welcome. SOUTH PETHERTON Every last Wednesday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at The David Hall, there is a coffee morning. Pop in for a cuppa 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 11.15am at The Davis Hall, there is a coffee morning. There will be the usual tea, coffee and cake. Bread and cakes from The Bakery A303 are on sale, also charity cards and sometimes plants and local produce, plus post office facilities. Free entry. WINCANTON On Saturday 30 July from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Wincanton Memorial Hall, there is a Wincanton & District Gardeners Association coffee morning. Cakes, plants, books and raffle. Come along and bring a friend to this friendly social occasion. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 01963 33160. YEOVIL Every Thursday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Yeovil Baptist Church, there is a coffee morning. At ‘Jacob’s Well’, hot and cold drinks are served, along with a delicious array of homemade cakes, scones and other goodies. Outdoor seating area available. Entry free. A warm welcome guaranteed!
Fair STOCK GAYLARD On Saturday 23 July from 2.30pm to 5.00pm at the Old Rectory, Stock
Gaylard, come and have ‘Tea in the Garden’. Enjoy a fabulous tea and a wander around the stalls. In aid of Lydlinch Churchyard Fund. Admission £5 including tea, under 10s free. Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome. TRENT On Saturday 2 July from 2.00pm to 5.00pm at Trent Village Hall and Green, it is the annual Trent Summer Fete. Raffles, tombolas, games, teas, BBQ, bar and more. Do come along and enjoy a traditional village fete with fun for all the family! WINCANTON On Saturday 9 July from 10.00am to 1.00pm at St Peter and St Paul Parish Church, it is the Church Path Fete. There will be books, cakes, gifts, raffle, refreshments and various stalls, as well as country dancing. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 01963 824503.
Festival CHETNOLE From Friday 8 to Sunday 10 July from 11.00am to 5.00pm at Chetnole Church is Chetnole Church Flower Festival, a celebration of the church and community through flowers, art and music. On display will be flower arrangements celebrating the many different aspects of life in the beautiful village of Chetnole. Music twice a day and art on display. Free entry; donations appreciated (for the church roof and churchyard). Refreshments and cream teas available at Chetnole Inn from 12.00 noon each day. Village church service on Sunday at 10.00am. For more information, email stpeterschetnole@gmail. com. SHERBORNE On Sunday 17 July from 10.00am to 4.30pm at Sherborne Castle is the Sherborne Classic and Supercar Show. A fantastic day of events and displays including motor club stands, motor trade stands, autojumble, craft fair, a wide range of food outlets and beautiful picnic areas, live music entertainment and attractions, and fun activities for the whole family. Raising funds for charity; the main beneficiary of this year’s
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WHAT’S ON
show will be Children’s Hospice South West. For more information, call 07748 737177 or visit www.classic-supercars.co.uk. SOMERTON From Friday 1 to Thursday 14 July at various venues across Somerton is the Somerton Music & Arts Festival. Starting on 1 July with a performance by the Bath Gilbert & Sullivan Society, The Somerton Music & Arts Festival will also feature talks and demonstrations, a nature walk, bands playing in the town’s pubs, a quiz night, chocolate making, wine tasting, and will finish with a Jive Night on 14 July. For full details and tickets, go to www.somertonartsfestival. co.uk/events. Tickets also available from Rocket 68 in Somerton.
Food CREWKERNE Every Friday at 1.00pm 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 £10, non-members £11.50. Lunch served at 1.00pm, bar open from 12.30pm. A takeaway box is available at £8. Booking essential by 10.30am. To book, phone 01460 74340. Every third Saturday from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, the yummy Henhayes Big Breakfast is served! Last orders at 11.30am. Breakfasts start from £5. Full breakfast menu and vegetarian options are available, with vegan options on request. The big breakfast coincides with the table-top sale. Every weekday (except Thursdays and Fridays) at 12.30pm at the Henhayes Centre, a two-course lunch is served. Members £8, non-members £10. Booking essential by 10.30am on the day. Lunch served from 12.30pm. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre.org. SANDFORD ORCAS Every Wednesday to Friday from 12.00 noon at The Mitre Inn, there is a Senior Citizens two-course lunch for £12.95. Contact Allen or Cheryl on 01963 220271. www.mitreinn.co.uk. Every Sunday from 12.00 noon at The Mitre Inn, Sunday roast is served – there are always three choices of meat along with a vegetarian and fish option. Adult £12.95, medium/OAP £11.75, child £9.50. Contact Allen or Cheryl on 01963 220271. www.mitreinn.co.uk. SHERBORNE On Tuesday 5 July from 11.00am to 1.30pm at The Digby Hall is the 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. Lunch is served at 12.15pm. Members pay £5. Transport for Sherborne residents can be arranged with Sherborne Voluntary Ambulance Service. For more information, call 07502 130241. On Tuesday 19 July from 3.00pm to 5.30pm at The Digby Hall, the RVS Sherborne Lunch Club – a lunch club for older people – is holding a tea party. Come and enjoy a delicious cream tea, with home-made cakes
and scones. An opportunity to meet up with friends and make new ones. Members pay £3. Transport for Sherborne residents can be arranged with Sherborne Voluntary Ambulance Service. For more information, call 07502 130241. YEOVIL Until Saturday 2 July from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm at The Emporium Cafe, there is a special, limited-edition afternoon tea, created to celebrate The Queen’s platinum jubilee. At just £18.95 a head, it is the perfect way to celebrate. Or order a takeaway to celebrate elsewhere. Served Monday to Saturday. See website for menu. To book, call 01935 411378, email info@ theemporiumyeovil.co.uk or book online at www.theemporiumyeovil.co.uk. On Thursday 21 July 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), advance bookings only. To book, call 01935 411378, email info@ theemporiumyeovil.co.uk or book online at www.theemporiumyeovil.co.uk.
Garden POYNTINGTON On Sunday 3 July from 2.00pm to 5.30pm is Poyntington Open Gardens and Plant Sale. The Manor House Gardens plus five other gardens are open to visitors. Tickets £5 (cash, no cards) on the day with free parking. Tea and cake available in the village hall. Sorry, no dogs and sadly wheelchair access to some gardens is limited. Totally in aid of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and the village church. SOMERSET Glorious Gardens Take a walk through the stunning gardens open to visitors this summer in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice Care. Full details of locations, opening dates and admission prices can be found online at www.st-margarets-hospice. org.uk/glorious-gardens or in the Glorious Gardens 2022 brochure available from St Margaret’s Hospice shops, selected local garden centres and tourist information centres. WINCANTON On Friday 1 July at 7.30pm at Wincanton Memorial Hall, it is the Wincanton & District Gardeners Association Members’ Rose and Sweet Pea Show. There is also a talk by Laura Batt entitled ‘Hedgehog Rescue’. Refreshments and raffle. Members free, non-members £1; membership is available. Everyone is welcome. For more Information, call 01963 33160.
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 open-air market. Food stalls: West-Countrysourced fish, extensive range of cheeses, greengrocery and eggs, artisan bread, home-made preserves, home-made pies and pasties, cakes, freshly-cooked Thai food and sauces, and Jack’s Mac and Cheese. Contact 01963 351763. www.castle-cary. co.uk/market. CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 9.00am to 1.00pm outside Henhayes Centre is Crewkerne Farmers’ Market. It has a comprehensive selection of 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 July from 10.00am to 1.00pm at the Moorland’s Shopping Precinct is Martock Farmers’ Market, with stalls selling vegetables, cheese, coffee, chicken, beef, cordials, jams, bread, savouries and plants. Any enquiries, please call Fergus on 01935 822202. MILBORNE PORT Every Saturday from 10.00am to 1.00pm at The Square. Local suppliers including meat, veg, bakery, florist and other stalls. ODCOMBE Every Friday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at Odcombe Village Hall car park. Local suppliers including meat, veg and bakery. SHEPTON MALLET Every Friday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at the Market Place is Shepton Mallet market. This historic market offers a wide range of fresh local produce, such as fruit, veg, bread, cheese, seafood and cider. For more information, visit the market’s Facebook page or call 07912 769731.
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WHAT’S ON
SHERBORNE On Sunday 17 July 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 Thursday from 9.00am to 11.30am at Digby Memorial Church Hall is Sherborne Country Market. Come and enjoy a range of quality products: cakes and savouries, jams and chutneys, crafts, local eggs, cheese and meat, seasonal vegetables and flowers – all home-made, home-grown or handcrafted by a cooperative of local people. Refreshments available. For more information, visit the market’s Facebook page. 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 first Friday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at the Buttercross, Market Place, is Somerton market. Vintage, retro finds, bike repairs, artisan food and more. 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 Sunday 24 July from 11.30am to 3.30pm at the Sherborne Steam & 6
Waterwheel Centre, there is an open day. Waterwheel and steam engines running, audio visual displays and many items of local and historic interest. See how this area overcame a previous health emergency! Tea room, picnic area, toilet, free parking on road. Entry by donation (cash or card). For more information, visit www. sswc.co.uk.
Sale CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, there is a fundraising table-top sale/craft fair. £5 per table. Set up from 9.00am. To book a table, email office@ henhayescentre.org. The sale coincides with the Henhayes Big Breakfast! ILCHESTER Every Sunday 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.
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. 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. Carymoor Environmental Trust has launched its new Mini Explorers sessions for toddlers and parents. The events will be held on their nature reserve for families to explore the site and discover the amazing variety of wildlife that lives there. Each session has a seasonal theme, including crazy caterpillars, brilliant badgers and happy hedgehogs. There will be songs, games, treasure hunts, woodland walks, and crafts. The sessions for 2- to 4-year-olds are £12 per child. Bookings via www. carymoor.org.uk. CREWKERNE On Tuesday 28 June 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 Michael Bryant, whose real passion for singing shows throughout his performance as he sings a mix of singalong songs, rock ‘n’ roll and country hits. £13 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org. On Tuesday 5 July 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 Trinity Entertainers, performing a variety of songs from light classical to pop and jazz. £13 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org. On Tuesday 12 July 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 Vikki Starr, performing an array of hits from throughout the decades – one not to be missed! £13 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org. On Tuesday 19 July from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a two-course set lunch and live entertainment for the over 55s. The lunchtime entertainment is provided by Ian Uren, singing a host of songs from 1940 to present day. £13 per person. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org. On Tuesday 26 July 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 Alan Pettifer, performing a vast repertoire of popular songs and originals. £13 per person. 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 memory problems. The group is a happy, social session for up to fifteen people, providing those attending with company, comfort, and stimulation, while providing their family members and carers some often much needed respite. Sessions start from £6.50 per person with the option to add drinks and a twocourse lunch at an additional cost. To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org. Every Tuesday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, come along to the Henhayes Computer Group for the over 55s. Get help with computers, tablets, and smart phones in a welcoming and social environment. £3.50 per session, includes tea/coffee and a biscuit. To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org. Every Tuesday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Henhayes Knitters session for the over 55s. Enjoy a knit and natter session, while raising funds for the Henhayes Centre. All abilities are welcome. To book, email office@henhayescentre.org. Every first Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre is the Crewkerne Carers Group’s
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WHAT’S ON
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. Members £10, non-members £11.50, includes club of choice and lunch. Tea/coffee and a biscuit on arrival. Two-course 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’. £3 per session. 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. KEINTON MANDEVILLE Every first Wednesday from 11.00am to 12.30pm at Keinton Mandeville Village Hall is the Keinton Mandeville Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Carers Group, memory cafe, drop-in service with health coaches, social prescriber and exercise class. Open to carers, cared for and anyone who wants to be sociable. For more information,
contact Cath on 07951 944420 or at cath.holloway@ sparksomerset.org.uk. MARTOCK Every first Thursday from 10.30am 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 Jacky.reed@talktalk.net. OBORNE On Saturday 25 June at 7.00pm, there is a barn dance. The barn is by the bus stop near the turning to Oborne on the A30 between Sherborne and Milborne Port. Tickets £12, under 16s £6. Ticket price includes a ploughman’s meal. For tickets, contact Karen on 07866 933736 or at oborneevents@gmail.com. All money raised will go towards the village hall, church and playing field. 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 Every Monday from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at Sherborne Library, there is a calm and relaxed shared reading session entitled ‘Feel Better with a Book’. Come along to read with others and have group discussions. Free event. Just turn up! Every 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. stalbridgecancerandrecoverys upport.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 Wednesday during term time from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at The Digby Hall, The Rock Choir meets up in the Wingfield Room. There’s no need to read music, no need to audition and no experience needed. Come along and have fun – everyone is welcome! Book a free taster session and give it a try. To book or to find out more, visit www.rockchoir. com or call 01252 714276. Every Thursday during term time from 10.15am to 12.00 noon at Digby Memorial Church Hall, come and sing with the Local Vocals, a Dorset community choir. A fun and friendly harmony choir for all voices. Songs taught by ear. No auditions. Beginners welcome. For more information, visit www. localvocals.org or call Lesley on 07933 928122. 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. 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. SOMERSET Strong and Steady Classes Local charity, Age UK Somerset, delivers falls prevention classes across Somerset, including Chard, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Langport, Martock, Somerton, South Petherton and Yeovil. The ageing process affects balance, muscles and joints, so keeping active is really important. One way to improve balance and strength is to join an Age UK Somerset ‘Strong and Steady’ class. The fun and friendly sessions, following evidencebased exercise programmes, are specially designed to help prevent falls. For more information, call Age UK Somerset on 01823 345614 or email fallsprevention@ ageuksomerset.org.uk.
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WHAT’S ON
SOMERTON Every second Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at Somerton Sports Club, come along to the Friendship Club – for a chat and a laugh. Entry 50p. Tea 20p, coffee 30p. Biscuits are free, as is a second cuppa. Prize draw and bingo. For more information, contact Mo on 07718 920198 or 01458 274631.
a willingness to join in. Singing helps to reduce stress, increases energy levels and improves confidence with team working. The choir members are friendly, have a fun time and occasional social events. New members welcome at any time. For more information, visit @yeovilcommunitychoir or call Janice on 01935 429322.
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.
Every Tuesday during term time at 7.30pm at Yeovil College, Yeovil Community Orchestra meets in the Kingston Building. The orchestra, led by Ian Gibbins, plays a wide variety of exciting music such as West Side Story, Vaughan Williams English Folk Song Suite and a selection of movie themes. There are vacancies for musicians on all instruments and at any standard. Come along and enjoy playing in a friendly group. For more information on the orchestra, visit www.yeovilmusiccentre.com.
WINCANTON Every second Monday from 2.00pm to 3.30pm at the Balsam Centre is the Wincanton and Bruton Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Informal chat around a large group table. 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.
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, share laughs, ideas and experiences in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Freedom Leisure (01935 314652) runs a seated exercise/boccia/social space at the same time, so carers can attend the group meeting whilst their ‘cared for’ enjoy an enriching and social event. Free parking. For more information, contact Carole Lade at lade7@icloud.com or Cath on 07951 944420.
YEOVIL On Saturday 25 June from 10.00am to 3.00pm at The Quedam Shopping Centre is the Polonian Cultural Day – an opportunity for the Polish community to celebrate its unique culture and heritage. There will be a chance to try samples of their cuisine, and enjoy arts, activities and music. Free to attend. Enjoy this unique opportunity to share a different culture in the town centre. For more information, visit www.loveyeovil.com/ events. Every Tuesday during term time at 7.30pm at Yeovil College, Yeovil Community Choir meets in the Kingston Building. Musical Director Rosie Monaghan is enthusiastic in encouraging the best results from this small choir. Everyone is welcome – no need to read music or to have sung before, just
REMOVALS & CLEARANCES
Every Thursday at 2.00pm at Yeovil Golf Club, Yeovil Phoenix Bridge Club holds friendly duplicate bridge sessions, with assisted play and partners. To register an interest, email yeovilphoenix@gmail.com or call Bob Warrender on 01963 440070. www. bridgewebs.com/yeovil. 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. Every first Friday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Labour Club (opposite the bus station) is Yeovil u3a’s monthly meeting. Yeovil u3a is an organisation for the retired, with many interest groups, as well as outings and events. Admission: members free, visitors £2. Coffee/tea and biscuits £1. Parking available in The Quedam multistorey car park. For more information, visit www.u3asites.org.uk/yeovil.
Sport Contact us for your free, no obligation quote; Phone: 01935 509057 Freephone: 0800 2425012 Mobile: 07853 275379 Email: enquiries@back2market.com 8
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. 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 from 9.15am to 10.30am at the Henhayes Centre, there is a mixed ability yoga class for the over 55s. This is a friendly and relaxed class, suitable for all, including beginners or those wishing to go at a slower pace. £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. YEOVIL Every Wednesday from 7.00pm at Westlands Sports Complex, Yeovil Table Tennis Club has social table tennis available between 7.00pm and 8.30pm for beginners and those returning to table tennis. Separate tables are available for experienced players from 7.00pm until 9.30pm. £4 per session for adults and £2 per session for juniors. Club members are free. Just turn up or email yeoviltabletennisclub@gmail.com.
Talk HENSTRIDGE On Tuesday 5 July at 3.00pm at Henstridge Village Hall, Blackmore Vale u3a is hosting a talk about the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum. Historian and arts society lecturer Dr James Taylor tells of one of the last Victorian Houses built in England – a home, an art gallery and a museum, sealed in time. In 1901 Merton Russell-Cotes gave his wife a dream house on a clifftop, overlooking the sea at Bournemouth, as an extraordinary, extravagant birthday present. Doors open 2.15pm. Members £1.50, visitors £2.50, includes refreshments. For more information about Blackmore Vale u3a, call 01963 362107 or visit www.u3a.org.uk. SHERBORNE On Wednesday 6 July at 7.00pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, Alison Weir will be speaking at the Sherborne Literary Society meeting about her new novel, Elizabeth of York, the Last White Rose. The Sunday Times bestselling author of the Six Tudor Queens series
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WHAT’S ON
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.
Free initial consultation
A personal and friendly approach to business that will work for you www.chalmersaccountants.co.uk info@chalmersaccountants.co.uk Offices at Yeovil, Crewkerne & Langport 01460 279000 returns with a captivating new novel; the first of a trilogy spanning three generations of the Tudor dynasty. It tells the spellbinding story of Elizabeth of York, mother, survivor, and the first Tudor queen. Members £9, non-members £10. Tickets available via the Sherborne Literary Society website or Winstone’s, Sherborne. www. sherborneliterarysociety.com. On Thursday 14 July at 7.30pm at Raleigh Hall, Digby Road, there is a Sherborne and District Gardeners’ Association meeting. Derek Dexter will be giving a talk entitled ‘Fuchsias My Way’. All are welcome. Charge for visitors is £2. For more information, call Richard Newcombe on 01935 389375. Please note this is a one-off change of venue. WEST CAMEL On Wednesday 13 July at 7.30pm at The Davis Hall, there is a West Camel Book Group open event. Meet the author Gill Oliver to discuss her book, Joe Faber and the Optimists. Copies of the book can be obtained from Melanie Smallwood at a bargain price of £6.99. Contact Melanie at melanie.armitstead@gmail.com. YEOVIL On Monday 11 July at 11.00am at the Quicksilver Mail, The Probus Club of Yeovil is holding its monthly meeting. Guest speaker John Maynard will talk about ‘John Scott, Nelson’s Secretary and Friend’. Lunch follows the talk. Yeovil Probus Club is a friendly group of retired/semi-retired professional and business men who meet regularly to promote fellowship. If interested in attending or require more information, email yeovilprobus@gmail.com. YEOVILTON On Thursday 30 June at 7.30pm at Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, there is a talk ‘A Bridge Too Far’ by Group Captain Michael Jenkins
(RAF Retd). As a serving RAF officer, Michael was in a unique position with his experience in RAF Transport Command to be the ‘all things aviation’ adviser to Richard Attenborough, the director of this iconic film. Michael will describe his time on set at the Netherlands Air Force base Deelen, working with Richard Attenborough and meeting the film producer, Joseph E Levine. Tickets £6 on the door (£4 via Zoom). Advisable to book in advance. For more information and to book, call 01935 840565 or visit www.fleetairarmfriends.org.uk/ talks. On Thursday 28 July at 7.30pm at Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, there is a talk ‘The Buccaneer in Service’ by Air Commodore Graham Pitchfork MBE, BA, FRAeS. Graham is an aviation historian, award-winning author and highly acclaimed speaker. His talk is about the operational use of the last allBritish bomber by the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, much of it based on the author’s personal experiences. A ticket link will be available at the end of June. For more information, call 01935 840565 or visit www. fleetairarmfriends.org.uk/talks.
Walk SOUTH SOMERSET Walking groups and regular organised health walks are a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, bring nature into everyday life, connect with other people and make new friends. The walks are led by a trained leader. To find out about such groups, call South Somerset District Council on 01935 462462, call Somerset
WELLS On Tuesday 19 July at 11.00am and Thursday 21 July at 4.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, there is a Community Garden Tour, as part of the Wells Food Trail. Jo Stevenson, community gardener, is hosting an informal and informative short tour of the Community Garden. The tour will look around the growing spaces which include level and raised beds, and a greenhouse. There’s a chance to ask questions and take away tips to help cultivation at home, allotment or community space. Each tour lasts 30-45 minutes. Pre-booking recommended. This event is included in the general admission price. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.
Workshop Until Tuesday 26 July from 10.00am to 12.00 noon and from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there are weekly half-day ‘Watercolour’ workshops with Nicky Clarke. Suitable for all levels. £15 per session. Book directly with Nicky on 01460 281773 or at randnclarke@hotmail.com. From Wednesday 22 June to Wednesday 3 August from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a weekly ‘Figure and Face’ workshop with Heather Ford. Learn to draw both the human form as well as the detail of faces. Suitable for beginners as well as the more experienced. This six-week course costs £16 per session. For more information and to book, contact Heather on 07368 457984 or at heatheraford@ gmail.com. No class on 13 July.
On Friday 24 June from 10.00am to 12.30pm and from 1.15pm to 3.45pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there are half-day ‘Slow Stitch: Creative Stitch’ workshops with Paula Simpson. Learn new stitching skills at these themed sessions, in a calm atmosphere with lots of encouragement. All levels are welcome and supported. Cost £20 per session. Or stay for two sessions with a break for lunch at the Gallery Cafe. To book, contact Paula directly on 01460 419264 or at hello@ paulasimpson.co.uk. From Saturday 16 July to Sunday 17 July from 10.00am to 4.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a two-day Ink drawing and printmaking workshop with Julia MacKenzie. Over the weekend, learn how to use non-traditional tools and natural elements to experiment with form, texture, shape and pattern – drawing inspiration from the beautiful Somerset surroundings. The course costs £150 with all materials provided. For more information and to book, email workshopbookingiac@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com. 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. 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-andevents.
AUGUST DEADLINES News and Articles:
FRIDAY 15 JULY
Advertisements: MONDAY 18 JULY
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WORDSEARCH
WELCOME TO NEW BUSINESS TNA FABRICS At The Conduit we are all in favour of welcoming new businesses and this month it is the turn of TNA Fabrics in Yeovil. Created by an intrepid trio comprising Tracey, Nicky and Anita (hence the name), the business was formed after a previous shop on the same Yeovil premises announced its closure. The employees of that business harnessed their entrepreneurial streak and put all their past expertise into the forming of TNA Fabrics. The result is a great shop that offers all of the following: • Experienced friendly team • Free customer car park • Made to measure curtain service • Curtain/upholstery fabrics • Dressmaking fabrics and patterns • Knitting yarn and patterns • Quilting fabrics and batting • Haberdashery Since opening they have already invested in a great deal of new stock. You will find them at Manor Stables, opposite the Octagon Theatre. The address is Manor Stables, Hendford, Yeovil BA20 1UN. Tel: 01935 671891.
WORDSEARCH
competition
CALLING ALL WORDLE FANS!
If you, like me, are a fan of the new online word game Wordle, then this month’s Conduit Wordsearch may tickle your fancy! Just find the seven-letter words in the grid below, ring each word until you have found all of them and when you have completed the puzzle send it to: The Conduit Magazine, Unit 4, Barton View Business Park, Sheeplands Lane, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4FW. The lucky winner receives a £10 cheque. The closing date is: Monday 25 July. Good luck.
ATHLETE EARLDOM FORCING GRANITE GROUCHY HABITAT HOLIDAY
KITCHEN LOLLING MADNESS OUTPOST PERVADE PRONOUN QUALIFY
RESTFUL STOPPER TABLOID UTENSIL YEARNED YOUNGER ZANIEST
Name:__________________________________________________________ Tel :_________________________Email:______________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
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WHAT’S BOOKS ON
ENJOY A GREAT DAY OUT AT THE FLEET AIR ARM MUSEUM!
This summer, experience life at sea at the National Museum of the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm Museum.
The museum is home to Europe’s largest collection of Royal Navy aircraft and is a great day out for both adults and families alike. Whether you are looking for somewhere to entertain the kids over the holidays or want to brush up on your history, this is the place for you. As you explore the museum, step back in time and get up close to a range of historic aircraft as you hear about naval aviation. This includes early aircraft, such as the Sopwith Baby, to the fighter planes of the Second World War and finally to the fast jets and helicopters of the modern era. For 2022, the museum has a variety of exciting additions including the much anticipated and upgraded Carrier Experience which promises to be an adventure not to be missed. Landing at the end of July, visitors can step through time and see the evolution of the aircraft carrier and the aircraft that accompanied it. This state-of-the-art immersive experience will take you from the pioneer years of the First World War all the way to the modern Queen Elizabeth Class Carriers of today. Step onboard the flight deck, brought to life through impressive sound and AV technology, it will feel as though you are
at sea. Get within touching distance of a range of aircraft from where it all began with the Sopwith Pup – the first aircraft to land on board a moving ship, through 100 years of naval aircraft, including the Sea Harrier.
no matter the weather. Tickets start from only £10. Book online now at www.nmrn. org.uk.
Your journey then continues through the island of the carrier as you find out more about life on board these moving airfields. Hear the stories of the highly skilled people who have served on board, learn more about the different spaces such as the engine rooms, living quarters and the command centre of the ship. You can also find out about the technology used on the modern Queen Elizabeth Class Carriers and their role in the Royal Navy today. The museum’s cafe has also been transformed and upgraded, Warneford’s (named after pilot Rex Warneford who was awarded the Victoria Cross) serves a variety of hot and cold snacks and drinks. There is sure to be something for everyone. There is always something new to explore at the Fleet Air Arm Museum which is why all tickets are valid for a full year. This means that you can return as many times as you like for no extra cost, so you will always have something planned for when the schools are off or somewhere to go
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GARDENING
LOOKING AFTER BASKETS AND TUBS By Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group
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
The spring is a busy time for planting and potting and getting the garden in shape. At the height of the summer one could be forgiven for thinking that all of the work in the garden is done and that a spot of relaxation should be an entitlement! However, although there should be time for a snooze every now and then, there are also chores to be done to keep plants in good shape. Baskets and tubs need to be watered every day. On a rainy day in the garden centre, it can often amuse customers seeing the plant team in waterproofs still watering the plant displays. This is because so much of the rain will be blocked from getting to the soil in pots by the foliage of the plant. The use of water retentive gel in the compost can help but its effects are marginal and are no substitute for daily watering. It’s also worth a look at how water is applied. Gaily wafting the fine spray from the end of a hosepipe is probably the least efficient method, whereas seep hoses and also the use of micro irrigation systems which apply water very precisely quite often with drip nozzles will be much more effective. Regular feeding especially of tubs and baskets will also keep the garden looking good. It’s worth thinking about what the food is for. For example, if more flowers are required as they would be in a hanging basket then a high potash fertilizer, such as Tomorite would be good. In leafy crops in the vegetable garden, a feed higher in nitrogen might be more appropriate. If a tub or basket has been allowed to 12
dry out then soak to rehydrate the plants and the compost. The new fertiliser from Westland called Boost is perfect for this, as it contains a wetting agent that will help rehydrate the compost. This should be followed by a high nitrogen foliar feed (Phostrogen or Maxicrop) before returning to the high potash (tomato food). Keep an eye out too for shrubs and herbaceous plants looking pale in leaf colour. Foliar feeding will help get the nutrient where the plant needs it most. This is especially true for acid-loving plants in most of our soils locally. Use an ericaceous fertilizer, such as Maxicrop in the blue bottles, and the plants will improve quickly. It’s also worth remembering that camellias make their buds at this time of year and to do that they need to be kept well watered. You will only notice that they didn’t get watered properly next spring when they try to flower, only for the buds to fall off. This is especially true for plants in tubs. Deadheading too should be carried out on flowering displays. On many plants, should a flower be allowed to go to seed the plant will think its job is done. However, with the removal of the old flowers the
plant is kidded into thinking that it needs to produce more flowers and so the display will be prolonged. And once all of this is done, there should still be time to step back and admire the display!
GARDENING
WINTER GARDEN GLASS EXTENSIONS By Liv Sabat
A Solarlux wintergarden glass extension can transform your home, open up your living space and help you make the most of your outdoor space. A wintergarden is a glass extension that can be added to the rear or side of your home. They are thermally insulated and come with a range of shading, ventilation and lighting options, meaning it can be used all year round. You may think, why? Why should I add a glass extension to my home? A glass extension will provide an extra living space in your home allowing you to spend more time outdoors with your
loved ones as well as adding value to your home. Our wintergardens are similar to the traditional conservatory, however, with their outstanding thermal properties, there’s no need to worry about it being too cold in the winter or too warm in the summer. With this in mind, you can pretty much use a wintergarden for just about anything; whether it’s a playroom for the children, a home office, a dining area or home gym, the possibilities are endless. Our wintergardens are designed and manufactured to last a lifetime. Solarlux uses highquality materials, and has made
sure that the structure can withstand higher winds, heavy snow and torrential downpours. The best part about choosing to get an extension for your home with us is that we can create an extension to match your aesthetic. You are in charge of choosing the colour, size, shapes and any accessories, and our job is to make your dream come to life. Whichever roof system you decide to choose, you can combine your roof construction with a variety of vertical glass elements. The benefit of this is enjoying the open space to the outdoors, as well as a fast
interchange of air for perfect ventilation. We can help you create a truly amazing living space that will seamlessly transition perfectly with your home, making it feel like it’s always been there. Once we install your wintergarden, all that will be left is you adding the finishing touches so you can sit back, relax and enjoy! To contact us call 01935 324377 or email: info@sunroomsuk.com. Visit: www.sunroomsuk.com. See you next time! Liv Photo credit: Solarlux
LOW MA
ANCE INTEN
DITED ACCR E PROFESSIONAL
INSTALLATION
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GARDENING
UP THE GARDEN PATH
POEM CORNER By Andrew Haylock
By Julie Haylock, Sandhurst Garden Design
At this time of the year gardeners reap the rewards of having given their borders a good mulch last autumn and early in the spring. Now is the time the plants come to their glorious peek of scent and colour, fed by all that goodness and, boy, how good for the soul it is! Since starting Sandhurst Garden Design, I have always made sure that at every step of the design process my clients are fully involved to ensure we achieve their dream garden to enjoy for many years to come. I thought I would share with you a selection of client reviews from projects we have completed recently, and say, ‘this is what makes my job so rewarding.’ ‘A complete garden solution with a professional and friendly service’ We needed a complete revamp of our garden which had been neglected for years. Sandhurst Garden Design looked after us from the very start, producing an overall plan for the structural work and planting. We felt involved all the way through the process and they turned our basic ideas into a vision and then reality. Steve S ‘Delighted with our small garden’ We only had a small undeveloped patch to call our garden. As it was small, we believed it was important to get professional help to make sure we made best use of the space. We were drawn to Sandhurst Garden Design because of their reputation, and from the first moment we made contact, we were not disappointed. Julie and
Andrew planted the trees, shrubs and perennials in the borders which we are really pleased with and we are now looking forward to long summer evenings. Mr and Mrs L ‘A garden to be proud of!’ We are absolutely delighted with the garden Julie designed and created for us. She really listened to what we liked and made suggestions we would have not even thought of, but that have made such a difference. Tracy S ‘As good as it gets!’ I cannot say enough to express the positive experience we have had with Julie. She has such an eye for detail and could not do enough to ensure that we got the garden of our dreams! Karen M For more testimonials and those exciting ‘before’ and ‘after’ photographs, visit my website www. sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk. The clock has started ticking down for us until we exhibit our show garden entitled ‘Time to Reflect’ at Taunton Flower Show on 5 and 6 August. I think the garden will resonate with so many people who have taken solace in their own gardens during the last two years either as a place where they felt secure, took their daily exercise or a place to sit in quiet contemplation and heal after losing a loved one. We are really looking forward to sharing the garden with everyone, so if you are planning to come to the show, please come and say hello. Until next time, Julie
The inspiration for the poem this month is the tradition of the fete in so many villages across the land during the summer months.
THE VILLAGE FETE A hot afternoon under a turquoise sky, Streamers, flags and bunting fly. The village fete still popular as always, A tradition of long and lazy summer days. Ribbon cut, opened by a local celebrity, Then first in the queue for a cream tea! On the WI cake stall money well spent, A rival to The Great British Bake-Off tent. Winning tickets from the tombola drum, Sweets won by dad, given to his son. The coconut shy is in full flow, Mum laughs winning one, a lucky throw! Enthusiastic tannoy commentary of the pony race, Parents cheering children ‘go on win a place’. Jovial voices carry across the showground, From where the busy beer tent can be found. Prizes awarded for perfect fruit and veg, Judges selecting which one they like best. Excited barking from dog show ring, As bounding faithful pets, rosettes they win. Brass band plays some patriotic songs, People in striped deck chairs all sing along. Trade is brisk across the show, Crafts and gifts, home they go. Wellie throwing, and tug of war, Eager competitors all shout and roar. Classic cars sparkle and gleam, All add to this annual scene. Vicar delighted it’s a humble truth, More funds raised for the leaking church roof!
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
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Garden Landscape & Construction Services
www.sherbornegardenangels.co.uk 01935 324737
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COMPUTING
FINANCE
WI-FI – WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?
By James Flynn, Milborne Port Computers People generally recognise Wi-Fi as the internet as a whole, i.e. the Wi-Fi is down, or we don’t have any Wi-Fi! Half of the time. This is actually due to no, or a poor, internet connection from the telephone line to your router. Your router still sends out its wireless signal (which is strong) but with no, or poor, internet strength. The other half is that devices are too far away from the router, or something is in the way (thick stone walls or new reflective insulation). With most of us connecting to the internet wirelessly and now working from home, this is increasingly becoming more of a problem. So, what is Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi: a facility allowing computers, smartphones, or other devices to connect to the internet or communicate with
one another wirelessly within a particular area. Most of the time your router will emit a Wi-Fi signal whether it has an internet connection or not. When connected to the WiFi, you are connected to your router’s network and then the internet is fed into that network when internet is available. I describe it to people like the piping system in a house. Cold water is always in the pipes, which is the network, and the boiler comes on and heats the water and is added to the system. When your boiler breaks down, you still have cold water, and when the internet goes down, you still have an internal network but without any internet. People always ask us ‘Can you provide a router with a stronger
Wi-Fi signal?’ The real honest answer is no. Indoor routers generally have a limit on the strength of signal omitted from them. To achieve a stronger Wi-Fi signal, you either need to move your router to a more central location of the building or increase the signal with WiFi-enhancing products such as powerline adaptors or a mesh system. Powerline adaptors are where the network/internet is sent via your mains cabling from adaptor to adaptor plugged into your house power sockets. These work well for houses all on the same ring main. These are very popular at Milborne Port Computers.
Mesh systems have slowly become more popular over the years. They’re a series of Wi-Fi pillars or discs which are placed around the building and bounce the signal off each other to give a seamless connection. We generally don’t recommend Wi-Fi extenders, as these devices can only retransmit the Wi-Fi signal that they can see, so the further away from router they are, the weaker signal they transmit. You also sometimes need more of these in a daisy chain format to get the signal further. If you have any Wi-Fi questions, you know where to come.
THE BENEFITS OF REAL FINANCIAL PLANNING By Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning Whilst writing this article, it has been another week of chaos at UK airports, with hundreds of flights cancelled and holidaymakers facing long queues, with reports of waits up to eight hours. Pent-up demand for travel and staff shortages have combined to put pressure on airports and airlines, and it looks like the problems are likely to continue through the peak holiday season. Planning ahead and budgeting is going to be vital to reduce unnecessary emotional and financial stress for this year’s holiday. This is not only true when planning a much needed holiday but also for all your future lifetime goals. There’s a subtle but important difference between financial advice and financial planning. A real financial planner will not focus on your money, but on your lives. Real financial planning doesn’t simply involve finding products to suit a need. Instead, it answers questions such as:
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• What are your dreams and aspirations for the future? • What do you want for yourselves and your family? • How much will you need to meet these goals? Only by finding out answers to these questions can we understand both your circumstances and your goals, and work with you to achieve your life ambitions. At FFP, once we get to know you, we use a range of tools including tax, contingency and cash flow planning to build and maintain a financial plan that will last you a lifetime. For example, we can stress test your situation and model a range of ‘what if?’ scenarios to test the impact of certain events on your plans. Analytical work such as cash flow modelling considers the gaps between your goals and the financial reality of achieving them. And, if we find gaps, we can model different possible scenarios to help you understand how we can bridge them. This may include:
• saving more • spending less • retiring later • downsizing the house • leaving less to your family On the flip side, modelling a range of scenarios may mean that you gift more, retire earlier or spend more than you expected! Truth About Money® is a consumer cash flow modelling tool that we have provided access to, free of charge. It shows part of what we do in our bespoke financial planning process. Try our cash flow modelling tool here: https:// www.ffp.org.uk/truth-about-money or get in touch with us to find out more.
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WESSEX INTERNET CUSTOMER RECEIVES FREE INTERNET FOR LIFE A delighted David Lester-Card received a surprise bonus when he was connected to full fibre broadband by Dorsetbased Wessex Internet. As the company’s 5000th customer, he will receive a free service for life. David (aged 66) first heard the fantastic news when Field Sales Manager Zac Barrett turned up on his doorstep in the rural village of Tytherington, Wiltshire, minutes after his home was connected to full fibre broadband by Norton Maby from the install team.
– but I never believed that we would ever get an ultrafast full fibre connection to our home. We don’t even have a mains water supply! It all happened in a short amount of time – from when we first had a leaflet from Wessex Internet, followed by Zac knocking on the door to the installation into my house. After posing for a few photographs along with his dog Alfie, David was keen to go online to get a taste of his new superfast internet. He said ‘It is
totally amazing – and allows us to move with the world!’ Wessex Internet connected David’s home as part of its work across Dorset, Wiltshire and South Somerset to bring full fibre broadband to rural villages and towns. Blandfordbased Wessex Internet recently scooped two national industry awards for its work connecting rural communities to full fibre broadband. Beating internet companies from across the UK, the organisation won
COMPUTING
‘Best Rural Fibre Provider’ and ‘Rollout Challenge Buster’ at the inaugural UK Fibre Awards, which celebrate the success of fibre networks delivering digital infrastructure in the UK. Wessex Internet is on the lookout for new talent across Dorset and South Somerset to support a major rollout of its full fibre network to rural areas. For anyone wanting to find out about current job vacancies, they can visit www. wessexinternet.com/careers.
David, a former operations director, was presented with a bottle of champagne and was then told about the free service which is worth £44 per month. He was amazed to hear that he would get free internet for the rest of his life and couldn’t wait to break the news to his wife Caroline, an NHS cardiac physiologist. He said: ‘We have struggled with poor internet for some time
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Up to 11x faster than the UK CIC and one Packages £29 per of how localIf businesses you need us, speak to our examples are working to support their Denys Rayner, chairman of Somerset Day of the from just average broadband speed. month with free installation.* friendly support team based communities. competition judges, commented: ‘We received many excellent in Dorset. entries and the judges faced a daunting task choosing which Sharing the third £1,000 grant with each receiving £500 are Lesser deserved to be chosen to receive the three grants – indeed so challenging was the task that the judges took the decision to share Litter in Taunton and Langport Vintage Market. Both of these also demonstrated a strong community ethos around a one of the grants between two businesses.’ *We may apply for goverment funding on your behalfbusinesses to offer you a free installation subject to survey. sound business model.
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BUSINESS
WORK IS A TEAM SPORT – NO, REALLY IT IS!
By Patricia Marks
Both the last few and the next few weeks are conference season for me, both presenting and attending as a delegate – I get to travel to lovely Warwickshire, mid Wales, Madrid, and around my home county of Somerset. At the presenting ones, I am discussing people management and what it means. In my view, people management is the only form of management and it is mission critical for any business, organisation, or group success. Question – can people be managed? The answer – Yes – if they want to be and most people in the workforce want and are happy to be. So where does that journey start – it’s with the recruitment and selection process. We have known this for some time, yet it still needs work. The process starts with knowing what your organisation needs to be done, this therefore means knowing your organisation; what it is doing, where it is going and how it is planning to get there. These are your mission, vision, values, strategies, objectives and your plans. From here it is writing a tailored Job Description (JD) and Person Specification (PS) – these two documents are vital to attract the right people to apply to come and work with you. They are not ‘tick box’ exercises to get out as much 18
information across as you can or show off the organisation or set out what you want as a rule book, they are the basis of a new relationship with your next employee, so make them engaging and enlightening. The next step is requesting and receiving of the applications; this might be more important than the JD and PS – how do your potential new colleagues get in touch with you, how do they present the information about themselves and what is the process (explicitly including timescales, format, quantity, and quality)? Job seeking should not be a test – it should be a process of engagement from both sides and transparent for both, if you want a good working relationship going forward. We move forward to the ‘sift’ for the interviews. The sift needs to be fair, open and understood by all involved. I am an advocate of telling the potential applicants how they will be assessed, who is involved in the process and what they can expect next. Even down to giving the applicants a biography of the assessors. Then comes the interview (groan – I hate them!). It is such a false and forced way of
assessing a person’s potential and ability. I agree an interview needs to be done but again it is not a test! Most interviews I have attended are set up so ‘them and us’ that I have often been put off at that point or wanted the role so much but ‘froze/got over nervous/panicked’ at the interview and then been upset as I have not given the best version of myself at all and not given the organisation a chance to see what I truly have to offer. Interviews are also often so short and overprescribed that it is not possible to adequately assess a person from such an intervention. I want all interviews to be a minimum of four hours for any role, interviews to be interactive and well planned, questions to be sent to the interviewee for preparation and that whole selection process to be laid out for both sides. I want the interviewee to be asked to set out what they want from the process too and how they want it to go! Working is a team sport! And there is no ‘I’ in team. Let’s shake up the recruitment and selection process!
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ARTS
ARTS
By Julie Locke
VISUAL ART
Until Friday 24 June from 9.30am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an exhibition of work by Greenfylde School pupils. The artists are from 2 years old up to the oldest at 9, so this will be a show of colour and wild imagination. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Saturday (exhibition closes at 2.00pm on Friday 24 June). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www. ilminsterartscentre.com. Until Saturday 25 June from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, the gallery will be showcasing selected works from the open call. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, call 01458 273008 or visit www. acearts.co.uk.
Until Saturday 25 June from 10.00am to 5.00pm at ACEarts, Somerton, there is an exhibition ‘Ink & Print’ by Carl Middleton, Jo Norman and Gemma Trickey. These three printmakers span the disciplines of linocut, silk screen, relief, letterpress and risoprint. From figurative work through to abstract experimentation, the Ink & Print collective displays a range of printmaking techniques with diverse inspiration such as colour exploration, social issues and a sense of place. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk. Until 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
Sherborne Art Club & are pleased to announce the return of the
Sherborne Open Art Exhibition 2022
At the Digby Hall, Hound St, Sherborne, DT9 3AA
Sat 23rd - Sun 31st July 10am - 5pm (2pm on the 31st)
Laurence Belbin ‘Summer Evening’
Free Admission With thanks to our main sponsor
All entry details are available at
www.sherbornearts.org
Hand in days: Fri 15th July 1pm - 6pm & Sat 16th July 10am - 1pm
SHERBORNE OPEN ART EXHIBITION 2022 After a three-year gap, Sherborne’s Open Art Exhibition is happening again at The Digby Hall, Hound St, Sherborne. Held since 1931, this well-loved, highly regarded annual show was last run in 2018. Now it has been relaunched with support from Sherborne Arts and generous sponsorship; local solicitors Mogers Drewett sponsor the exhibition overall, including £200 to the artist winning the Judges' Choice prize.
Up to 400 pictures and sculptures will be exhibited, with unframed folio ‘browsers’ for sale. Selection is by well-known judges, seeking quality but also diversity of style, medium and subject to make a balanced, attractive whole. Visitors will certainly find something to like and, with prices over a large range and hidden bargains in the browsers, there will be something for all those looking to buy. The exhibition is open to all artists. This year for the first time, entries can be submitted right up to hand-in day to encourage an exciting, spontaneous and maybe wider entry (although artists are encouraged to register online first for a ‘fast-track service’). The deadline is 16 July. Anyone with spare time wanting a fun day hanging or stewarding, please get in touch.
The organisers would like to thank the headline sponsors plus all the businesses providing artists' prizes and in several cases also providing additional sponsorship. Businesses include Castle Gardens and Old Barn Framing Gallery, both of which were previously linked to the show and have donated prizes for oils and watercolours respectively. Other prizes come from Charterhouse Auctioneers (dry media), The Eastbury Hotel (second and third in Judges' Choice), estate agents Knight Frank (acrylic and mixed media) and Sherborne Arts (work voted favourite by show visitors). Thanks also to those many people who have volunteered to help with hanging, stewarding and other tasks. ‘The Sherborne Open’ is known as one of the best quality, most prestigious open exhibitions in the region, exhibiting the work of many of its top artists as well as entries from a host of accomplished amateurs and attracting visitors from far afield. The exhibition runs from Saturday 23 July to Sunday 31 July and admission is free. Contact: sherborneopen@ sherbornearts.org www.sherbornearts.org/ sherborne-open-art-exhibition Image: Kim Pragnell - Flight of Crows (oil on linen)
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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. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. Until Sunday 3 July at Greening the eARTh Gallery, Wincanton, there is a School Arts exhibition. Wincanton Town Festival and Greening the eARTh gallery commissioned Bootmakers, a local craft business, to run workshops within Wincanton’s two primary schools. Over 500 unique ‘postage stamp crowns’ artworks were crafted, entirely from found materials, and are on display. Until Saturday 23 July from 10.00am to 5.00pm at The Malthouse Gallery, East Lambrook Manor Gardens, there is an exhibition of new paintings ‘Postcards from Kenya’ by Moish Sokal, featuring the wild animal kingdom of Kenya and its people. Open: Tuesday to Saturday only. Free entry to exhibition. The exhibition is also available online. For more information, visit www. moishsokal.co.uk or call 01935 881350/07940 506757. Until Saturday 30 July from 10.00am to 5.00pm at Courthouse Gallery, Somerton, there is an exhibition of watercolours by Somerset-based artist, Lucy Willis. Lucy is a printmaker and watercolourist, who specialises in portraying exotic locations where the scenes are imbued with her sense of light and colour. Open: Wednesdays to Saturdays. www. courthousegallery.uk. Until Wednesday 31 August from 9.30am to 5.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there is an exhibition of unique garden ceramics by local artist Karen Edwards. Explore the stumpery at The Bishop’s Palace to find a stunning display. Making ceramic sculptures for outdoor display combines Karen’s three loves – landscape, plants and clay. All pieces are hand-built and frost-proof originals. Karen 20
is happy to discuss commission or personalisation ideas. Entry is included in general admission price. For more information, visit www.bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.
Karen Edwards Exhibition – The Bishop’s Palace From Tuesday 28 June to Friday 8 July from 9.30am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an exhibition ‘Gaia’ by Jayne Butler, a multimedia artist working with colour and line with fibre, ink, brush and stitched textiles. Jayne has responded to the Gaia principal with vibrant colours and hues of life connecting both earth and moon. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www. ilminsterartscentre.com. From Saturday 2 to Saturday 30 July from 10.00am to 5.30pm at David Simon Contemporary Art Gallery, Castle Cary, there is an exhibition by Kit Andrews, aka The Cornish Potter. Working in stoneware clay and experimenting with a variety of vase and bottle forms, he creates beautifully balanced forms, with beautiful, random patterns and colours. Kit has built a collection of pieces specially to coincide with the exhibition of paintings by Peter Ceredig-Evans (‘The Shape of Time’ from 2-30 July). Aspects of Kit’s ceramics strongly echo Peter’s paintings and both artists call on their Cornish heritage as a subtle influence in their work. Open: Monday to Saturday (closed on Wednesday and Sunday). For more information, phone 01963 359102 or visit www.davidsimoncontemporary. com. From Tuesday 12 July to Friday 5 August from 9.30am to 3.00pm at Ilminster Art Centre is the Ilminster Open Exhibition 2022. Paintings, original prints, drawings, sculpture, ceramics
and textiles will be on show. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.ilminsterartscentre. com. From Sunday 17 July to Sunday 2 October from 9.30am to 5.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there is a Caroline Byrne exhibition ‘Art of Looking’. This summer exhibition of glass, prints and painting is an invitation to look and experience a colourful and optimistic vision of the world. This exhibition will be on display in the upstairs of the palace. Caroline will also be in the exhibition on Thursdays from 12.30pm to 3.00pm as part of ‘artist in work’ where she will be painting in the exhibition and answering questions from visitors. Entry is included in general admission price. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. From Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 July from 10.00am to 5.00pm at The Digby Hall, Sherborne, sees the return of the Sherborne Open Art Exhibition. Up to 400 pictures and sculptures will be exhibited, with unframed folio ‘browsers’ for sale. Selection is by wellknown judges, seeking quality but also diversity of style, medium and subject to make a balanced, attractive whole. Free admission. The exhibition closes at 2.00pm on Sunday 31 July. The exhibition is open to all artists, and there is still time to enter; entry closes on 16 July. For more information, email sherborneopen@sherbornearts. org or visit www.sherbornearts. org.
MUSIC On Friday 24 June at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Jean Toussaint is on stage with the Craig Milverton Trio. This US saxophone colossus played through the 1980s with the world-renowned Jazz Messengers, led by the great Art Blakey – surely one of the best-known modern jazz groups there has ever been. Supported by Craig Milverton’s trio, this will be an evening of absolutely top-class ‘hard bop’ jazz, which no self-respecting fan could
possibly want to miss! Tickets £18. To book, call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.
Jean Toussaint On Friday 24 June at 8.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, see Tom Robinson in concert. Tom first became known in the 1970s as a musician, LGBT activist, and with the Tom Robinson Band. In 1977 their Top-5 debut release ‘2-4-6-8 Motorway’ became one of the landmark singles of the UK punk era. Other hits included, ‘Glad To Be Gay’ and ‘Up Against The Wall’. As a broadcaster, he hosts two shows a week on BBC Radio 6 Music and is regarded as a champion of emerging musicians, while still touring himself. Tickets £22. Book online at www.sturexchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).
Tom Robinson On Saturday 25 June at 7.30pm at St Barnabas Church, Queen Camel, Castle Cary Choir will be performing a wideranging programme of sacred, folk, spiritual and modern music. The choir is conducted by organist Martin Emslie. This promises to be a most enjoyable evening with something for everyone. Tickets £10 to include a glass of wine at the interval. Tickets available from Paul Davis (01935 850139) or Morwenna Ford (01935 850300) or on the door. Proceeds in aid of the churches within the Cam Vale Benefice. On Saturday 25 June at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, there’s an evening of foot-tapping classics with The Bootleg Shadows. This outstanding Shadows tribute band, with their immaculate
ARTS
NEW PERFORMING ARTS CLASSES The Conduit speaks to Isabel Berkeley to find out the thinking behind her new performing arts classes
I’m opening The Speaking House, because we’ve experienced two years of withdrawal, a society shutdown of culture and life. Now, more than ever, we want to be with people to learn, to grow, to develop, to have fun, joy, and excitement together. I have created The Speaking House to teach the performing arts, and from that base you can work in almost every other curricular activity. The main difference between The Speaking House and existing performing arts schools is that traditional ones have a prescribed programme; it’s all about ‘follow my leader’, following a specific package. It’s not about cultivating personal creativity, integrity and growth. My goal is to maintain and nurture the innate creativity in each and every person. For me, this sort of work is a kind of a calling: it’s like an inner urge to do this. If we can remind our children of the resilience of their human spirit, well, you’ve taken out one of the big steps we’ve
appearance, synchronised dance movements and clean, pure melodic sound, will perform hits from ‘Apache’ to ‘Riders in The Sky’, with laughter along the way. In support of East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity. Tickets £20. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Saturday 28 June from 10.00am to 6.30pm at South Petherton, it’s the Petherton Folk Fest. After two years with no Petherton Folk Fest (due to Covid), this family day of fun and entertainment returns this year – and it is totally free! Folk musicians will perform in Market Square, The David Hall, The Brewer’s Arms, The Blake Hall and in St Peter and St Paul’s Church and its grounds. There will also be stalls and other attractions in and around Market Square. The day will start at 10.00am with a parade by morris dancers into the Market Square, where there will be music and dancing all day until 6.30pm. For more information, visit www.pethertonfolkfest.org. uk. On Tuesday 28 June at 7.30pm at Vicarage Street
created in our society, which is ‘break, then mend’. You don’t have to do that – you can just grow. My last fifteen years of teaching practice have been focused at a very well-reputed school – one of the top primary schools in Britain, where I’ve been the performing arts teacher. The structure of that place allowed me to bring in all kinds of elements, from creative drama –which is very much about emotional intelligence, as well as improvisation, all the way to ballet and dance, choreography, songwriting, singing, and developing the individual voice. Acting, for me, is a gateway to explore yourself, because you are reflecting back to you, through the characters which you choose, the different aspects of yourself you may or may not be comfortable with. Of course, it’s an extraordinary avenue for bringing across all of the elements of emotional intelligence.
Methodist Church, Yeovil, Yeovil Music Centre will be holding its Summer Concert. Yeovil Community Orchestra and Yeovil Community Choir will perform a wide variety of musical styles including show tunes, classical and movie themes. Tickets £4, available on the door. For more information, call 07811 706255. On Thursday 30 June at 7.00pm at The Emporium Cafe, Yeovil, it’s The Disciples, with an impressive repertoire ranging from Stone Roses to David Bowie, obviously with Queen in the mix. Tickets £8. Licensed bar and supper menu (not included in ticket price). To book, call 01935 411378, email info@theemporiumyeovil. co.uk or book online at www. theemporiumyeovil.co.uk. On Friday 1 July at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Joanna Eden and Enrico Tomasso pay tribute to the music of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Enrico and Joanna bring true affection and knowledge to this celebration of the musical union of two titans of twentiethcentury jazz, with ‘Let’s Call The Whole Thing Off’, ‘Cheek
Now I am offering a Saturday School of five ninety-minute performing arts classes for ages 8-14, a Small-Children’s Group on Wednesday afternoons and two days of Homeschool, where children who are homeschooled can come to The Speaking House. We offer the kind of learning you want more of: learning that will take you through your life and will not damage you. Everything you experience with us, you can take with you and grow. Having the gift of a creative mind is incredibly valuable. All of this is done through pursuing the path of creativity in a supportive atmosphere which respects freedom and individual qualities. In my mind, it is time to reverse this strange ‘inside-out’ quality that we have been experiencing in our world, and start to really invest and put our energy where it can truly do good work. For more information email: TheSpeakingHouse@inspirition.biz
The Speaking House Saturday Performing Arts Classes
Five 90 minute Children's Classes Ages 8 - 14 Acting • Singing • Dancing Song-writing • Script-writing
3-Day Holiday Performing Arts Course Open to children Ages 9 - 15
Afternoon Creative Baby Class
Wednesday Afternoon Sound, Movement and Nature Ages 2 - 4
Homeschool Drop-in Centre Every Monday Please Visit
www.inspirition.biz/the-speaking-house for booking and further details
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to Cheek’, ‘A Fine Romance’ and many more of their classic recorded songs, accompanied by some of the best jazz musicians in the UK. Band members are Enrico (trumpet), Ian Bateman (trombone), Trevor Whiting (clarinet/sax), Craig Milverton (piano,) Denny Ilett (guitar), Joe Pettit (bass) and George Double (drums). Tickets £20. To book, call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre.com.
Enrico Tomasso and Joanna Eden On Friday 1 July at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there a chance-todance event with The Leylines, plus support Chris Ostler. The Leylines are a West Country collective with a genre-defying, eclectic sound that ranges from traditional folk to full blown festival rock. Tickets £17, available from 01460 240340 or online at www.thedavidhall.com. On Saturday 2 July at 7.30pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, join the Somerton Concert Band for its annual summer concert. Tickets £7, under 16s free! Refreshments included in cost of ticket. Doors open 7.00pm. For more information, see the band’s Facebook page. On Saturday 2 July at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Flamenco Night. The intense sounds of hand clapping, foot stomping, singing and exquisite guitar playing will transport the audience for one night to Andalucia. Tickets £15, available from 01460 240340 or online at www.thedavidhall.com. On Sunday 3 July at 5.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there is music for a mid-summer evening performed by the Choir of the Lord Mayor’s Chapel Bristol. Light refreshments available afterwards. There is no charge to attend this afternoon 22
concert but a valid entry ticket or membership to the Bishop’s Palace is required. Pre-booking recommended. On Sunday 3 July at 6.00pm at Clementina’s Garden, Wincanton, The Pilgrim Singers present ‘Singing for Ukraine’. Tickets £14 from Wincanton Post Office and Wincanton Fruit and Veg (Coles Yard). To include Pimm’s, and strawberries and cream. Under 16s free. Gardens open 4.30pm – bring a picnic. Marquee cover. On Wednesday 6 July at 2.00pm at All Saints Church, Castle Cary, there is a cafe concert by Trio Paradis. ‘Here and Now’ is a collection of contemporary pieces of music, mostly by living composers and includes a range of musical styles – classical, folk and pop. The concert lasts about 45 minutes and is free with a retiring collection. The All Saints Church Cafe is open from 1.30pm for tea, coffee and homemade cakes. Jacquelyn Bevan (piano), Lisa Betteridge (violin) and Linda Stocks (cello) perform daytime cafe concerts at community venues across Somerset and Wiltshire. For more information, visit www. trioparadis.com. On Thursday 7 July at 6.00pm at The Gransden Hall, Sherborne Girls School, Ruth Rogers plays ‘The Seasons’. Ruth (solo violin and director) and Iuventus Chamber Orchestra will perform Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Piazzolla’s Four Seasons of Buenos Aires. This is a concert not to be missed! Tickets £20, child £5, available from the box office (0333 666 3366) or via www. ticketsource.co.uk. On Friday 8 July at 7.30pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, The South are back to celebrate their tenyear anniversary and thirty years since The Beautiful South released ‘Song For Whoever’. The South are an impressive
The South
nine-piece band who feature former members of The Beautiful South. This exciting live band brings back the full flavour and arrangements of the songs made famous by The Beautiful South. For more information and ticket prices, call the box office (01935 422884) or visit www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk. On Friday 8 July at 8.00pm at Fanny’s Roving Folk Club, The Bridge, Langport, acclaimed Scottish singer-songwriter Adam Beattie and multi-platinum singer-songwriter Fiona Bevan will perform an evening of uplifting, original contemporary folk. They complement each other beautifully; the live show will feature some duets and collaborations. Doors open 7.00pm. Tickets £13.20, available at www.wegottickets. com. Contact 07963 208891. On Friday 8 July at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a truly scintillating evening of modern/mainstream jazz by American saxophone maestro, Greg Abate, and UK top guitarist, Nigel Price, plus the Craig Milverton Trio. Greg Abate was lead saxophone and musical director of the renowned Ray Charles orchestra. He was made a member of the American ‘Jazz Hall of Fame’ eight years ago. Nigel and Craig are regulars at Ilminster Arts Centre and have provided many evenings of superb music. Tickets £20. To book, call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com. On Saturday 9 July from 11.25am to 11.30pm at Somerton Recreation Ground is the Somerstock Music Festival. Somerton’s own one-day family friendly music festival has over twelve hours of continuous live music. The line-up includes The Hoosiers, The Explosive Light Orchestra, The Decatonics, Chris Slade (of AC/DC fame) and Nick Parker and the False Alarms. But it doesn’t stop there! There’s also a children’s fun zone, nine DJs, multiple bars serving everything from cold beer to cocktails, street food from around the globe and plenty of retail stalls as well as on-site parking and camping. For Information and tickets, go to www.somerstock.co.uk. On Saturday 9 July at 7.30pm
at Sherborne Abbey, join Sherborne Chamber Choir with conductor Paul Ellis to celebrate The Queen’s platinum jubilee, with music performed at royal occasions across the centuries, including familiar favourites such as Handel’s Coronation Anthems and Parry’s I was glad, along with some less wellknown gems. See website for full programme details. Join the choir to celebrate The Queen’s unique place in history, and the end of a full concert season! Tickets £5 (unreserved), £10-£16 (reserved), available from www. sherbornechamberchoir.org. uk or TicketSource (0333 666 3366). On Sunday 10 July at 11.00am to 6.00pm at Somerton Recreation Ground, it’s the Somerstock Family Fun Day, with lots of music, family entertainment, food and drink stalls and bars, classic car display, circus fun run, inflatable bouncy castle, family yoga with Rosie Glow, marching majorettes, and dog agility. Whether it’s relaxing on the grass and listening to live music from superb local bands or taking part in the many activities, Family Fun Day has something for everyone. The fun day is free but everyone attending needs to download a ticket from the website to show at the entry gate. www. somerstock.co.uk/fun-day. On Wednesday 13 July at 7.30pm at All Saints’ Church, Martock, there is a Guardians of Martock Church concert. The Yeovilton Military Wives Choir will perform a variety of songs across many genres and reflect the ethos of service life. An excellent opportunity to see a first-class choir. The choir, formed in September 2012, is part of the Military Wives Choirs network. Admission £12. Advance tickets (£10) available from 07790 225357, Martock Gallery or Martock Newsagent. On Friday 15 July at 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Concerts in the West presents a performance by Callum Smart (violin) and Richard Uttley (piano). They will play works by Schubert, C Schuman, Kreisler and Strauss – for the full programme, visit www. concertsinthewest.org. Callum is quickly developing an international reputation as
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one of Britain’s finest young violinists. Richard has released several solo recordings to critical acclaim and performed as recitalist and concerto soloist at major UK venues. 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.
Callum Smart and Richard Uttley On Friday 15 July at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, enjoy an evening with Le Vent du Nord. This award-winning and highly acclaimed group is a leading force in Québec’s progressive francophone folk movement. The group’s vast repertoire draws from both traditional sources and original compositions, while enhancing its hard-driving soulful music with a broad range of global influences. Tickets £22, available from 01460 240340 or online at www.thedavidhall.com.
Le Vent du Nord On Saturday 16 July at 7.30pm at The Dance House, Crewkerne, Concerts in the West presents a performance by Callum Smart (violin) and Richard Uttley (piano). They will play works by Schubert, C Schuman, Kreisler and Strauss – for the full programme, visit www.concertsinthewest.org. Callum is quickly developing an international reputation as one of Britain’s finest young violinists. Richard has released several solo recordings to critical acclaim and performed as recitalist and concerto soloist at major UK venues. 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 Thursday 28 July at 7.00pm at The Emporium Cafe, Yeovil, it’s Ruby And The Rockets, a four-piece Somerset-based band, with all the best rock and roll tunes from the 50s to the present day! Tickets £8. Licensed bar and supper menu (not included in ticket price). To book, call 01935 411378, email info@theemporiumyeovil. co.uk or book online at www. theemporiumyeovil.co.uk. On Friday 29 July at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, drummer Gareth Hughes presents an all-star sextet featuring Bruce Adams (trumpet), Alan Barnes (alto and baritone saxes) and Dean Masser (tenor sax), with Andrezej Baranek (piano) and Ed Harrison (bass). This will be a superb evening of topclass mainstream/modern jazz played by six of the very best instrumentalists the UK has to offer. Tickets £20. To book, call 01460 54973. www. ilminsterartscentre.com.
Bruce Adams, Alan Barnes and Dean Masser On Saturday 30 July at 7.30pm at the Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne, there is live music from Crooked Furrow. £10 entry to include a buffet-style meal. Bar opens from 7.00pm, music to start at about 7.30pm. This is a fundraising event. To book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre.org.
PERFORMANCE On Thursday 23 June at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, come along to ‘Hello Again… a tribute to Neil Diamond 2022’ – the world’s greatest celebration of the life and work of Neil Diamond, starring Brooklyn Creed and The Salvation Band. Using evocative imagery, video and narration to enhance the magic, the show takes the audience on a musical journey through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50-year career. From The Bang Years (1966-1968) to the present day, the audience will soon find themselves
singing along to all the hits including ‘Sweet Caroline’, ‘Cracklin’ Rosie’, ‘Forever in Blue Jeans’, ‘Song Sung Blue’, ‘Hello Again’, ‘Love on the Rocks’, ‘America’ and many more. Tickets £27.50, concession £26.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre. co.uk. On Saturday 25 June from 1.45pm at Manor Farmhouse, Norton-sub-Hamdon, is the Norton Show Safari 2022 – four shows and a stroll. HamstoneLIVE has booked four high-quality outdoor performances to enjoy while taking a stroll around the village. Tor Theatre – ‘Amelia Braveheart’s Extraordinary Adventure’, one woman’s journey around the world. Jack & Jordon – a chaotic journey through the minds of two actors. Bluebirds Theatre – ‘The Musicians of Bremen’, a beautiful adventure with music and puppetry. Out of the Forest Theatre – ‘An Inspector (of nuisance) Calls’, a one-man show about nuisances! Suitable for all ages. Numbers limited. Tickets £10, available at the village shop and online. For more information, call John Bailey on 01935 881227 or visit HamstoneLIVE on Facebook. On Wednesday 29 June at 7.00pm at the Yeovil Country Park, behind The Octagon Theatre, there’s an open-air performance of ‘As You Like It’ – a rustic romp packed with music, laughs, cross-dressing confusion and a dash of wrestling. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men – with a history stretching back to William Shakespeare himself – present this great play as Shakespeare first saw it performed – in the open air, by an all-male cast and with Elizabethan costumes, music and dance. Please dress for all weather and bring along lowbacked seating, but no tables. Advance tickets £16, child £10. Tickets on the day £18, child £11. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre.co.uk.
On Thursday 30 June at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School presents ‘Vanity Fair’. Often cited as one of English literature’s greatest treasures, ‘Vanity Fair’ is a roustabout of intrigue, survival and sexual politics. This hilarious satire is destined to thrill audiences, as Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s BA Acting cohort showcases an exuberant production. Presented in partnership with Artsreach. Tickets £12, under 18s £8, family (4 persons) £34. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Thursday 30 June at 8.30pm at The Art Bank, Shepton Mallet, Take Art presents Ruth Cockburn in ‘Miss Nobodies’ – the story of a local shop spanning 100 years from 1919 to present day. The show mixes poetry, storytelling and music to tell of the women that have made up the shop’s history, whilst also showing how the lives of women have changed. The themes of the show cover social responsibility, civic duty and local pride, whilst touching on female solidarity, life choices and loneliness. This funny, poignant and heartwarming story will resonate with all ages. Doors open 7.00pm. Hot food available to purchase. Tickets £10, available online at www.takeart.org. For more information, email info@artbank. org.uk.
Ruth Cockburn – Miss Nobodies On Wednesday 6 July at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School presents ‘Vanity Fair’. Adapted for the stage by Declan Donnellan and directed by Paul Chesterton, Thackeray’s hilarious satire is destined to thrill audiences this summer. Tickets £15, available from 01460 240340 or online at www. thedavidhall.com. On Thursday 7 July at 6.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, 23
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at www.takeart.org. For more information, call 01747 840680.
The Pantaloons there is a performance of ‘War of the Worlds’ by The Pantaloons. The criticallyacclaimed Pantaloons invade the stage in this funny, yet faithful, open-air adaptation of War of the Worlds, as they use musical instruments, puppetry and enthusiasm to recreate deadly heat-rays, giant fightingmachines, squidgy tentacled Martians and interplanetary warfare on an epic scale. The chances of success? A million to one… Bring along a chair or picnic blanket, as well as refreshments. Doors open 5.45pm. Suitable age 5+. Tickets £16, under 16s £10, family £45, available online. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. On Sunday 10 July at 3.00pm at the Bryan Young Community Field, Pen Selwood, there’s an outdoor family show ‘The Wave’ from Bath-based theatre company Calf 2 Cow. The pirate ship, Wave Goodbye to Your Sanity, has been lost at sea for weeks, or perhaps years? Crewed by three buffoonish sailors, they need help on their journey as they battle against the stormy seas. This bonkers, riotous clowning show is brought alive through water fights, sea shanties, trembling drums, electric guitars, colour bombs, flakes, and floorstomping songs, plus seagulls and mermaids! A perfect party for big kids and small! Tickets £10, child £3, available online
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On Thursday 14 and Friday 15 July at 7.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, Project Factory presents Opera Brava. What could be more lovely on a balmy summer’s evening than sitting in the open air listening to Puccini’s Tosca or Rossini’s The Barber of Seville? The medieval palace with the cathedral as backdrop is the perfect place to experience two of the greatest operas ever written. Bring along a chair or picnic blanket and a picnic, and make an evening of it! Cool wine, Pimm’s and other refreshments will be on sale. Families are very welcome. Doors open 6.00pm. For information and prices, visit www.bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.
The Barber of Seville From Monday 18 to Saturday 23 July at 7.45pm at The Swan Theatre, Yeovil, The Swan Theatre Company presents ‘The Thrill of Love’ by Amanda Whittington. As a hostess in West End gentlemen’s clubs, Ruth Ellis works hard, plays hard and dreams of a movie-star life. Yet in 1955, the self-styled ‘blonde bombshell’ is convicted of murder and becomes the last woman to be hanged in Great Britain. Through the eyes of Detective Inspector Gale – and the haunting voice of Billie
Holiday – ‘The Thrill of Love’ explores the enigma of Ruth Ellis: a woman whose short but explosive life still resonates. Doors open 7.15 pm. Tickets £12, concessions £11. Buy online at www.swan-theatre. co.uk. For more information, call 07500 376031. On Tuesday 19 July, Charity Theatre Trips is offering a fundraising coach trip to Bristol Hippodrome to see an evening performance of ‘Les Miserables’. Pick-up points are Curry Rivel, Langport, Somerton, Street, Keinton Mandeville and Shepton Mallet; see website for departure times. Tickets £63/£71/£83. 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 Wednesday 20 July at 7.30pm at Castle Gardens, Sherborne, award-winning Illyria Outdoor Theatre performs Shakespeare’s comic masterpiece ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. Five couples – three human, one fairy, and one mythical – find their relationships sorely tested, when a troupe of amateur theatricals bumble into the forest to rehearse a play. Please bring seating/rug, suitable clothing and a picnic for an evening of magic and mischief in the walled garden. Doors open 6.30pm. Suitable age 5+. Tickets £8-£17.50, available at Castle Gardens or online via www.illyria.co.uk.
A Midsummer Night's Dream On Friday 22 July at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Bob Whitley and Lee MacKenzie present ‘Magellan’s Circumnavigation’. A dramatic account, in song and spoken word, of Magellan’s incredible circumnavigation of the earth, simply to prove that the ‘world is round’. This performance follows a sailor on the voyage and his wife at home – it’s
a story of mutinies, battles, storms, shipwreck, love and loss. Bob and Lee combine breathtaking vocal harmonies with intricate instrumentation, delivering songs inspired by Magellan’s voyage 500 years ago. An evening of great music, drama, history and storytelling. Tickets £14. To book, call 01460 54973. www.ilminsterartscentre. com.
On Saturday 23 July from 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Acoustic Night. Petherton Arts Trust is trying to encourage more local performers of all genres to come and perform on a professional stage, offering a performance of 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, 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 24 July at 6.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, there’s an open-air performance of ‘As You Like It’ – a rustic romp packed with music, laughs, cross-dressing confusion and a dash of wrestling. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men – with a history stretching back to William Shakespeare himself – present this great play as Shakespeare first saw it performed – in the open air, by an all-male cast and with Elizabethan costumes, music and dance. Bring along a chair or picnic blanket, as well as refreshments. Doors open 5.45pm. Tickets £17, under 16s £10, family £48, available online. For more information, visit www.bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. From Monday 25 to Saturday 30 July at 7.30pm at the Sherborne Studio Theatre, Amateur Players of Sherborne present ‘Billy Liar’ by Keith
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Waterhouse and Willis Hall, directed by Jessica Colson. Tickets £10/£12, available from www.aps-sherborne.co.uk or 07786 070093. On Wednesday 27 July at 7.30pm at Castle Gardens, Sherborne, award-winning Illyria Outdoor Theatre returns to perform Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘The Pirates of Penzance’. Follow the escapades of Frederic who joined the pirates as a child due to a mistake by his nursemaid who misheard his father’s instructions to apprentice him to a pilot! It is packed full of memorable songs such as ‘To be a Pirate King!’, ‘Modern Major General’ and ‘A Policeman’s Lot is Not a Happy One’. Please bring seating/rug, suitable clothing and a picnic for an evening of hilarious melodrama, sharp satire and glittering wit. Doors open 6.30pm. Suitable age 5+. Tickets £8-£17.50, available at Castle Gardens or online via www.illyria.co.uk. On Thursday 28 July at 7.00pm at The Swan Theatre, Yeovil, there is a National Theatre Live screening of ‘Prima Facie’. Tessa is a young, brilliant barrister. She has worked her way up from working class origins to be at the top of her game; defending, cross-examining and winning. An unexpected event forces her to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of law, burden of proof and morals diverge.
Tickets £15. Buy online at www. swan-theatre.co.uk. For more information, call 07500 376031.
On Sunday 31 July at 3.00pm at Speeds Farm, Lamyatt, locally-based Bluebirds Theatre presents a family friendly folk musical ‘Musicians of Bremen’. A donkey, dog, cat and rooster all decide to go to Bremen together to become musicians. After a terrifying experience with a wicked robber, they abandon their quest and instead resolve to live as musicians together in the forest. Based on the Grimm Brothers’ tale of four abandoned animals seeking a new life, this show celebrates the musical potential of everyone. It’s a joyful tale with some great dramatic characters brought to life by life-sized puppets. Bring along a picnic and refreshments. Tickets £8, concessions £5, under 8s £1, available online at www.takeart.
org. For more information, call 01749 812031. On Sunday 31 July at 6.30pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, the British Touring Shakespeare Company presents an openair performance of ‘Dracula’. Professor Van Helsing, an expert in the supernatural, is called in to help a young woman who becomes mysteriously ill during a trip to Whitby. Is it a rare disease? Or something evil? And what has become of her friend’s fiancé after he was sent to oversee the purchase of a London house by the sinister Count Dracula? Contains adult themes which some children may find scary so parental discretion is advised. Bring along a chair or picnic blanket, as well as refreshments. Doors open 5.45pm. Tickets £16, under 16s £10, family £45, available online. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. 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 Saturday 25 June from 10.00am to 11.00am at Sherborne Library, come and help build ‘Story Den’ in the children’s area. A perfect place to listen to some stories. Suitable for children aged 3+. Free event. Booking is essential – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683. On Monday 25 July from 10.30am to 11.30am at Sherborne Library, come along for some ‘Junk Modelling’ – do a bit of recycling to turn old, used items into new, fantastic creations! Free and suitable for children aged 3+. Book via Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683. 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!
WHAT’S ON AT THE OCTAGON THEATRE IN JULY? On Thursday 7 July at 7.30pm, Mya-Rose Craig is in conversation with Stephen Moss. Mya-Rose is a birder, environmentalist and diversity activist. Her new book Birdgirl tells her remarkable story – a journey defined by her love for these extraordinary creatures. Every single bird a treasure. Each sighting a small step in her family journey – a collective moment of joy and stillness amidst her mother’s deepening mental health crisis. And each helping her to find her voice. Stephen Moss was the original producer of the Bafta-winning Springwatch, bestselling nature writer and President of Somerset Wildlife Fund. Tickets £10. Ticket and book £18.99. From Wednesday 20 to Saturday 23 July at 7.30pm, there is a performance of ‘Shrek The Musical’ by the Beatnik Theatre Company. Based on the Oscar-winning film, this fairy-tale adventure brings all the
beloved characters to life on stage. Follow Shrek on his life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess. Hilarious fun for the whole family, packed with stunning songs and breathtaking costumes. Afternoon performance at 2.30pm on Saturday. Tickets £19, under 16s £15. On Sunday 24 July at 6.00pm, Project Dance presents ‘Collective’. An evening of music and dance showcasing talent from across the south of England, ‘Collective’ is a specially curated one-night-only event in aid of the Octagon Theatre Redevelopment and Project Dance’s Young Dancer Bursary Fund. Tickets £12.50, concessions £11, child £8. On Monday 25 July at 8.00pm, Rhod Gilbert is back with the ‘Book of John’. This show sees Rhod as funny as ever, but like never before. It’s a little bit raw, very
personal, and brutally honest; no more lies, no more nonsense. It’s a show about hitting rock bottom, and just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, he meets a bloke … a bloke called John. Age recommendation 16+. Tickets £28.50. From Thursday 28 to Sunday 31 July at 7.30pm, Project Play is delighted to present another absolute classic ‘Keeping Up Appearance’ on stage. Prepare for continual belly laughs as Hyacinth continues her attempts to prove her social superiority, and as ever is constantly hampered by her lower-class extended family, whom she is desperate to hide! Afternoon performances at 2.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets £16.50. The Octagon Theatre, Hendford, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. Box office 01935 422884. www. octagon-theatre.co.uk.
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ARTS MOVIES
MOVIES AROUND THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES
DEATH ON THE NILE (12A)
Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short. This tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy features a cosmopolitan group of impeccably dressed travellers, and enough wicked twists and turns to leave audiences guessing until the final, shocking denouement. Starring Kenneth Branagh, Tom Bateman and Annette Bening. SHOWING AT West Camel on Friday 1 July, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door.
DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA (PG)
The much-anticipated cinematic return of Downton Abbey: A New Era reunites the cast as they go on a grand journey to the south of France to uncover the mystery of the dowager countess’s newly inherited villa. SHOWING AT Yeovil until Wednesday 29 June, Westlands Entertainment Venue. Tickets £5 to £10. For various dates and times, contact box office 01935 422884.
HOUSE OF GUCCI (15)
When Patrizia Reggiani, an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel their legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately… murder. Starring Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Jeremy Irons and Al Pacino. SHOWING AT South Petherton on Friday 22 July, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.
MARTIN EDEN (PG)
An Italian-take on Jack London’s autobiographical novel, where one man’s quest to leave his lowly roots follows a passionate pursuit to achieve a place among the literary elite. SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 22 June, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, guests £5, Swan Theatre members £4. www. cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.
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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 South Petherton on Friday 8 July, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.
THE DUKE (12A)
In 1961, Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old taxi driver, stole Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. He sent ransom notes saying that he would return the painting on condition that the government invested more in care for the elderly. An uplifting true story about a good man who set out to change the world and managed to save his marriage. Starring Jim Broadbent, Helen Mirren, Heather Craney and Stephen Rashbrook. SHOWING AT Castle Cary on Wednesday 22 June, Caryford Community Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. Advance tickets from Tessa Gayford on 01963 350132 and The Market House. Halstock on Saturday 16 July, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50. Advance tickets from Halstock Shop. Contact: Tony Hill 01935 892485. Kingsbury Episcopi on Tuesday 5 July, Community Centre, 7.30pm. Tickets £5, under 16s £2. Contact: ebh0205@gmail.com. South Petherton on Friday 24 June, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340. Sturminster Newton on Thursday 21 July, The Exchange, 7.00pm. Tickets £5, under 18s £4. To book, call 01258 475137.
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MOVIES
THE GUILTY (15)
A totally compelling and gripping thriller set in Copenhagen. Deskbound police officer, Asger Holm, responds to an emergency call from a kidnapped woman but the call is abruptly disconnected and so begins the search. Confined to the station, Holm has to use his skill and intuition in the race against time to try to locate the woman and her assailant. As the investigation progresses, the audience slowly learns about the incident that confined him to desk duties… (Danish with subtitles). SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 6 July, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, guests £5, Swan Theatre members £4. www. cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.
Music Gigs All Music Gigs are FREE entry unless mentioned.
JUNE
24 Jay Chant, Covers, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm
Loose Connections, Milborne Port Sports & Social Club, 9.00pm
25 Balance Of Power, 80s Covers, The Arrow, Yeovil, 9.00pm K'fuffle, Rock/Pop, The Old Barn Club, Yeovil, 8.30pm
Moonshine Hillbillies, Rock & Roll/Rockabilly, The Tippling Philosopher, Milborne Port, 9.00pm ReD, Rock/Pop, Henstridge Airfield, 6.20pm. £10
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPEN (12A)
The remarkable true story of Maurice Flitcroft, a crane operator and optimistic dreamer, who, with the support of family and friends, managed to gain entry to play the qualifying round of the 1976 British Open, despite never playing a round of golf before. Maurice pulls off a series of stunning, hilarious and heart-warming attempts to compete at the highest level of professional golf, drawing the ire of the golfing elite but becoming a British folk hero in the process. Starring Mark Rylance and Sally Hawkins. SHOWING AT West Camel on Friday 29 July, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door.
TOP GUN: MAVERICK (12A)
When Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell finds himself training a detachment of Top Gun graduates for a specialized mission, he encounters the son of his late friend Lt Nick Bradshaw. Facing an uncertain future and confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it. Starring Tom Cruise, Jennifer Connelly and Miles Teller. SHOWING AT Yeovil on Friday 24 June, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.
WEST SIDE STORY (12A)
MUSIC
Slipstream, Rock Covers, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.00pm
The Magic Badgers, Classic Rock, The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet, 8.00pm Unknown Identity, Covers, Henstridge Airfield, 5.10pm. £10 Unknown Identity, Covers, The Armoury, Yeovil, 9.00pm
JULY 1 2
8 9
Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, The Black Swan, Langport, 7.30pm
Caught On The Back Foot, Classic Rock, Half Moon Inn, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, 9.30pm Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.00pm
Unknown Identity, Covers, North Down Orchard, Haselbury Plucknett, 7.30pm Chris Banderas, Classic Rock, The Horseshoe Inn, Bowlish, 9.00pm
Unknown Identity, Covers, South Petherton Sports & Social Club, 9.00pm
10 Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, The Prince of Wales, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, 3.00pm 16 Ancestors, Rock/Pop Covers, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.00pm Silverback, Rock Covers, The Beehive, Yeovil, 9.00pm
Wrecking Ball, Country Rock, White Hart Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm
22 Chris Banderas, Classic Rock, Oscars Wine Bar, Crewkerne, 8.30pm
Simon Crossley & Friends, Milborne Port Sports & Social Club, 9.00pm
23 Caught On The Back Foot, Classic Rock, The Globe Inn, Somerton, 9.30pm Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, Mill Street Social Club, Wincanton, 9.00pm
24 Lewis & The Sound of the Suburbs, Ska/2-Tone, The Black Horse, Yeovil, 3.00pm 29 Ian Valentine, Covers 60s to present, The Old Pound Inn, Langport, 8.30pm 30 Powercut, Rock/Pop Covers, White Hart Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm
The Magic Badgers, Classic Rock, The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet, 8.00pm Unknown Identity, Covers, Coopers Mill, Yeovil, 9.00pm
31 Chill, 60s to 90s Covers, Mike Saint Cricket Pavilion, South Petherton, 3.30pm
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 Hinton St George on Saturday 9 July, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5.50. Advance tickets £5 from Our Shop. Contact: 01460 74959. 27
RADIO
BOOKS
HELLO PLAYMATES – A BRIEF HISTORY OF BBC RADIO COMEDY By Steve Haigh, Station Manager, Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM I’m often asked me why the BBC no longer does comedy like the old days. The BBC should stand for Bring Back Comedy, they say. There are, of course, many fine comedy shows on today’s BBC but for those who remember Hancock’s Half Hour and The Goon Show, they don’t compare. The golden age of comedy on BBC radio began in the late 1930s. It started with Band Waggon starring Arthur Askey and straight man Richard ‘Stinker’ Murdoch. Together they formed one of radio’s most celebrated double acts. Askey knew what did and didn’t work on radio, making for a more fast-paced show. Regular characters were established such as Mrs Bagwash, her daughter Nausea and Billy The Goat. Band Waggon was a huge hit and paved the way for It’s That Man Again, hosted by Tommy Handley. ‘ITMA’, as it was known, owes some of its success to the outbreak of WWII, as people listened to the show as a diversion from the horrors of conflict. Other favourites followed, including Variety Bandbox, Much Binding in the Marsh, Educating Archie and Take It From Here.
broadcasts that read ‘No gags on Scotsmen, Welshmen, Clergymen, Drink or Medical matters and no sneezing into the microphone’. By the late 1920s, Reith could no longer ignore the audience in their demands for more radio comedy and by the early 1930s the BBC was broadcasting over two hundred comedy shows a year, mainly as live relays from variety theatres and music halls. In 1951, The Goon Show launched and went on to influence the future members of the Monty Python team. Tony Hancock in Hancock’s Half Hour was first broadcast in 1953. Written by Galton and Simpson, it marked the start of radio comedy moving from a variety format and more towards character-based comedy. By the time Round the Horne hit the airwaves in 1965, radio was starting to lose its dominance to TV. A fightback was started with TV favourites like Steptoe and Son and The Likely Lads being converted into radio shows. In the last thirty years, radio comedy has gone from strength to strength. Radio shows like Little Britain, Count Arthur Strong, Goodness Gracious Me, League Of Gentleman, Room 101 and Alan Partridge’s Knowing Me, Knowing You have become major TV hits.
New Local Radio Station for Yeovil When Lord Reithand was in South Somerset charge of the BBC, Light Entertainment was never at the top of his agenda. He banned Sunday broadcasting before 12.30pm believing listeners would be in church! He had all comedians handed a card before their
R ADIO 104.5 FM 28
The very best of radio comedy may be in the past, but it has never really gone away, and will continue to entertain for many years to come.
SPRINGS
You can’t get more Local!
BOOK REVIEW
By Wayne, Winstone’s
NOW WE ARE TEN Winstone’s, Sherborne’s independent bookseller celebrates its 10th anniversary.
The Whalebone Theatre by Joanna Quinn £14.99 hardback Joanna Quinn was born in London and grew up in Dorset, where her first novel The Whalebone Theatre is set. Cristabel Seagrave has always wanted her life to be a story, but there are no girls in the books in her dusty family library. For an unwanted orphan who grows into an unmarriageable young woman, there is no place at all for her in a traditional English manor. But from the day that a whale washes up on the beach at the Chilcombe estate in Dorset and twelve-year-old Cristabel plants her flag and claims it as her own, she is determined to do things differently.
My Sand Life, My Pebble Life: A Memoir of a Childhood and the Sea by Ian McMillan £10.99 hardback Ian McMillan is an English poet, journalist, playwright and broadcaster. He is known for his strong and distinctive Yorkshire accent and his incisive, friendly interview style on programmes such as BBC Radio 3's The Verb. Ian recalls his days by the sea, from Cleethorpes and Scarborough to Northumberland and Blackpool and the Isle of Skye. He walks barefoot to see the sun rise; he is attacked by seagulls, midges and wasps; he eats a lot of fish and chips; he nearly avoids a frisbee; he searches for jazz. In writing peppered with poetry, Ian tries to work out how those journeys shaped the grand old dad that he’s become today. My Sand Life, My Pebble Life takes readers to sunny days on the beach, legendary games of cricket, thermoses of tea, crumbly cake and tiny caravans. The holiday cottages that live on forever, buckets of shells, a broken fishing net, with the tide out, way out…
8, Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset. DTP 3PX 01935 816 128 winstonebooks1@gmail.com www.winstonebooks.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
INTERIORS
INSPIRATIONS FOR THE CURIOUS SHOPPER
By Dawn Woodward, The Emporium, Yeovil
Here comes the sun! And how great does it feel? We’re celebrating all things summery at The Emporium and enjoying the new lease of life that we all seem to have! We’re busy transforming our shop, bringing so much new stock into the store and creating really gorgeous pops of colour as we redecorate. If you haven't been to The Emporium before, we promise you won't be disappointed. Full of independent and local traders, come and explore a treasure trove of beautiful quirky items and unique gifts. From time to time we have spaces for new businesses to join us, and right now we are reaching out and looking for some talented business owners to welcome into The Emporium. If you have a small business that would benefit from a shop in Yeovil town centre, we look forward to hearing from you! The Emporium Cafe is open from 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Saturday. Find our cafe up on our first floor, offering their brilliant menus of gorgeous
food made by our in-house chefs. A cake and savoury counter is also available if you fancy light refreshment in between browsing the shop. Our courtyard garden is open for diners too; why not enjoy a break, a coffee or some lunch in this hidden oasis of calm and tranquillity? We’d like to introduce Holly, our lovely new head chef who brings so much talent and inspiration to our team! She is pictured here with Julie, our cafe manager. Holly has worked as a chef since the age of 16 and is already proving to be a hugely valuable member of our cafe team; welcome! Come and try some of Holly’s delicious lunches! Our live music events are continuing throughout the summer! Join us for supper, drinks and talented musicians on 21 July (Bearcat Collective presents our ‘Secret’ Acoustic Folk Supper) and on 28 July for Ruby & The Rockets. If you can’t visit us in person, view our wonderful online shop and get an insight into what we are all about.
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 29
CARE
VOYAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA!
By Tracey Warren, Stoodley and Son
July seems a slightly calmer month compared to the wonderful celebrations we had in June. Jubilee parties up and down the country, lighting of beacons, celebratory church services and a real sense of community. In South Petherton, the festivities culminated in a wonderful street party, sandwiches and scones were in abundance and it truly brought out the community spirit. Then the South Petherton Folk Festival back from its pre-Covid hiatus filled the streets and halls with the sound of music and brightly coloured morris dancers; we are truly lucky to live in an area with so many lovely community events. It also got me thinking what other anniversaries and famous occasions are reaching milestones. In July there is quite a notable one, though probably not as celebrated as Queen Elizabeth’s jubilee. The 28 July marks the centenary of the birth of Jacques Piccard. Born in Brussels, he was the son of Auguste Piccard, an adventurer and engineer. Auguste used his expertise with balloons to develop a submersible vehicle. Jacques, however, attended a college in Geneva where he graduated with a diploma in international studies. On his return to home, Jacques and his father developed three more prototypes of the submersible vehicles which they called ‘bathyscaphe’. Jacques decided to abandon his future career in economics to collaborate with his father. The costs for theses vehicles soon escalated and Jacques sought financial help from the US Navy; this came at a time when they were designing submarines for underwater research. Jacques demonstrated the bathyscaphe 30
and the Navy immediately took him on as a consultant. Renamed the Trieste, the bathyscaphe reached record depths of 10,000 feet but Jacques wanted to achieve a greater depth – ultimately a voyage to the bottom of the sea. The target was the floor of the Mariana Trench located in the western North Pacific Ocean, 35,800 feet down. On 23 January, Jacques and his friend Lt Don Walsh prepared the Trieste for the descent. Taking over five hours to descend, they were making good progresses until at 30,000 feet they heard a loud cracking noise. They pressed on and finally touched down. The Trieste carried no scientific equipment. When they reached the seabed, they claimed to have seen flat fish as well as shrimp; marine biologists disputed their observations claiming no fish could survive the 17,000psi pressure. However, recent studies have shown the Mariana snailfish to live on the bottom; this pink slimy creature is made out of cartilage (if it was bone, they would simply snap under the immense pressure) and has no functioning eyes. After only 20 minutes at the seabed, they began dumping ballast to make the 3-hour 15-minute ascent to the escort ship. The short duration on the sea floor was due to finding
cracks in the viewing window – the loud noise they had heard on their descent.
Finally, remember at the start of this article I said that Auguste was a famous balloonist?
After the success of this project, both Jacques and his father Auguste worked on creating a mesoscaphe; this was the first passenger submarine capable of carrying up to 40 passengers. His most famous one carried over 33,000 tourists through the depths of Lake Geneva.
The one record that links Jacques and his father Auguste is this: Jacques has the record for the deepest dive; his father Auguste has the record for the highest flight (in a hot air balloon). So on 28 July raise your glass to Jacques Piccard.
MOTORING
THE HYBRID HIGHLANDER
By Tim Saunders, Motoring Correspondent The first thing that strikes me when I see the Toyota Highlander is that I haven’t driven a burgundy coloured vehicle for years. It really enhances this SUV. It’s a colour that holds a strong place in my heart because my parents had a 1988 Vauxhall Carlton with the same finish. Over the years various manufacturers have chosen this palette but it seems to have gone out of favour in recent times. That is until I get behind the wheel of the Highlander and then notice that it’s still a reasonably popular choice… Isn’t it funny how you only recognise certain things when they relate to you? Or is that just me?
mode up to about 27mph and then no matter how light your right foot, the petrol engine will kick in. In theory, it makes it ideal for travelling through town centres and situations where traffic moves more slowly. That makes it perfect for motorways then during rush hours and holiday getaways. As usual there are lots of roadworks, and travelling through the New Forest we have to patiently wait in a queue for the best part of half an hour. The Highlander is great in situations like this because not only does the ignition automatically cut out when the The key facts about this vehicle car stops, reducing those pesky are that it is a self-charging emissions but it then restarts hybrid petrol electric. Already when the traffic starts flowing this scores highly with me again. At such low speeds EV because it will not interfere mode then takes over which with my lifestyle like an electric means that for about 30 minutes vehicle will. I don’t need to worry we are being as clean as can be. about any aspect of charging All the while the strong sunlight because it does it itself. Then it is shining through that enormous will accommodate no less than glass roof. A good proportion eight occupants; that’s got to of this is also an electric tilt/ be a first – unless of course you slide sunroof, which is much have a van and even those would appreciated on a warm day. struggle to transport so many. Toyota claims that this vehicle will And thirdly, it has a nice large return up to 39mpg. I can report panoramic glass roof making it a that we actually get 43mpg – very light vehicle. this is a first for me – usually the vehicles I test prove to be less The automatic gearbox complete efficient than claimed. On a full with paddle shifts makes for easy, tank it should easily travel 400 some might say boring, driving. miles, if not more, depending on For me, the driver’s seat could do driving style. As far as I can tell, with a little more support – I’ve these economy figures only take been hedge cutting and my back into account the petrol engine is feeling the strain so needs all so adding the miles that might the help it can get. be travelled on EV mode should show a14:23 figurePage closer I Brewers quickly discover that it will 1 16/03/2020 Garage.qxp_Layout 1 to 50mpg, I would think. travel in EV (electric vehicle)
BRISTOL ROAD GARAGE Western Ways Yard, Bristol Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4HR
• DIAGNOSTICS • MOT • SERVICING
• REPAIRS • AIR CON SERVICING • TYRES
Call us on 01935
812720
Founder and editor of Travel & motoring magazine, Tim Saunders is an advanced motorist and journalist. He has always been passionate about motoring and regularly reviews cars from the leading manufacturers.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
Toyota Highlander Excel 2.5-litre petrol hybrid Priced from: £51,670 Top speed: 112mph
0 to 60mph: 8secs Economy: 39.2 to 43mpg
Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz
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01963 530 075 MOBILE:
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*Offer valid for openings up to 2.4m wide & including 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override.
31
FOOD & DRINK
Jalebi
Prep time 5 mins Cooking time 25 mins Makes 10
INGREDIENTS Oil for frying
Pipping bag/ziplock bag/ empty squeezy bottle
WHEN YOU NEED A SPOONFUL OF SUGAR…
By Khrishma Preston, The Alternative Indian
Sometimes life just keeps throwing you curve balls. Huge blocks and obstacles seem to be chucked our way and the current worries about increasing energy and living costs are hitting everyone hard. However, in life you sometimes need that sugar hit to keep you going, to keep you focusing on the positives and remembering you aren’t the only one feeling like this. Over the next few months please remember people are just trying to survive, support local, and most importantly be kind. Somerset and Dorset are home to some of Britain’s most established food producers and to some of the most innovative artisan food makers working in Britain today. The Somerset Food Trail Festival on 15-24 July is an open farm and farmto-fork showcase that puts the spotlight on Somerset's smaller-scale, nature-friendly farmers and artisan producers in all their fascinating diversity. The Alternative Indian is taking part and details for our popups are: Ecofair Yeovil 2022 on Saturday 16 July from 10am to 4pm at Holy Trinity Church – we will be running the cafe and will have spice mixes and our tiffins for sale. Wytch Wood Eco Campsite, Blackmore Farm, Crewkerne: Tiffins in the Woods – open 32
to the public every Friday night on a booking basis via our events page on www. thealternativeindian.com. As part of the Somerset Food Trail, we will also run an additional special offer for 20 and 21 July. Please keep an eye out on our social media pages for more information. Our other venues include Vineyards of Sherborne. Dates always sell out within days. We also host regular pop-ups at Bridge House Hotel, Bridport (www.bridgehousebridport. co.uk), who also support several other local businesses. This month’s recipe dates back to the early tenth century when it was known as ‘zulbiya’ in an ancient Persian cookbook and is ‘jilapi’ in Bengal. Jalebi is very much a humble sweet treat, enjoyed hot or cold, and is something that spans the Indian subcontinent, Western Asia, Africa, Mauritius, and Comoros. There is no single recipe for jalebi. It is made with a variety of ingredients like semolina, wheat flour, skinned black gram (urad dal), moong dal, and even cottage cheese. It has numerous versions and most of them have their own unique taste! The recipe I am providing you here is a classic Gujrati version.
Batter
Sugar syrup • 240ml water • 450g sugar • 1 tsp lemon juice
• 135g plain flour
• 2-3 strands of saffron
• 45g rice flour
• 1 pod of cardamom, crushed, or ½ tsp of cardamon powder
• ¼ tsp baking powder • 1 tsp melted butter or yogurt • Approx. half a cup of water
• 1 drop of orange food colouring
METHOD Make the batter by thoroughly mixing all the dry ingredients in a bowl. Add the melted butter or yogurt and mix well so there are no clumps. Washed fingers are best, making sure the flour is well coated. Slowly add a little bit of water at a time, making a medium consistency pourable batter. Whisk in one direction until completely smooth. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. In the meantime, make the sugar syrup. Start by heating water and sugar in a tall pan on medium heat, stirring until it comes to a boil. Stir in the lemon juice, this helps to prevent the sugar from crystallizing. Boil for another minute, then add the saffron and cardamon. Lower the heat and cook for another couple of minutes, stirring regularly. Take it off the heat, stir in the food colouring and let the syrup cool on the side. To check the syrup is ready for dunking, cool a teaspoon’s worth in a bowl, and put a drop between your fingers. It should feel sticky and you should be able to draw a small sugar string between the fingers as you pull them apart. If it’s not sticky enough, reheat for a few more minutes and check again. It’s really important to achieve this consistency. Once the syrup is ready, start to heat your oil on medium heat in a wide bottom pan. Fill a piping bag with your jalebi batter. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can improvise with a ziplock bag that has had a small corner cut off once filled or an empty washed squeezy condiment bottle. Once the oil feels like it's coming up to temperature for frying, test it by dropping a dollop of batter into the oil. The batter should fluff up and start to float instantly. If this doesn’t happen let the oil heat a little more. Cook 2-4 jalebis at a time by keeping the piping bag upright and quickly piping swirls. These do not need to be perfect! Do not overcrowd the pan. If they start to brown, lower the heat. Let each batch cook for 15-20 seconds without touching them. Using a fork or tongs, carefully turn them over in the oil, and cook for another 15-20 seconds until golden brown. Remove them from the oil and immediately soak them in the warm sugar syrup. Do not let the syrup cool completely throughout the process. Stop and heat it if needed. Soak the jalebis in the syrup for about 90 seconds, flipping them in the syrup only once. Take them out and plate them. Continue to make small batches until you are out of batter. They can be enjoyed warm or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three days.
FOOD & DRINK
LYME BAY CRAB AND ISLE OF WIGHT TOMATO SALAD By Mark Hix
Serves 4 From a young age being brought up on the Dorset coast, I’ve kind of got used to eating freshly boiled crab that would get dropped off on the doorstep by friends of my dad and grandfather. I didn’t really even give it a thought that it was a tad luxurious as all sorts of things from rabbits and hares to scallops would be dropped off in exchange for a bit of my grandfather’s gardening knowledge or a pound or two of his tomatoes or a stem or three of his prize chrysanthemums. The crabs would get simply boiled and usually turned into sandwiches with a fragrant greenhouse tomato salad doused with Sarsons malt vinegar. The shells wouldn’t even get a look in for a tasty second meal of a broth or a bisque but just get tossed in the bin. If only I had known back then what I know today, those humble trade-off offerings could have been turned into something quite special but I was always glad to smell freshly boiled crabs when I got dropped off from primary school and enjoyed the mucking in and cracking of the shells with one of my grandfather’s old hammers. • 300g or so of ripe tomatoes or coloured Heritage tomatoes • A tablespoon of brown crab mixed with the same quantity of mayonnaise (optional) • 150-200g freshly picked white crab meat
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
• A tablespoon of finely chopped chives • A tablespoon of rapeseed or olive oil • Sea salt and freshly ground white pepper Thinly slice the tomatoes and lay them on a serving plate, overlapping and covering it. Season, then sprinkle over some Sarsons malt vinegar. Spoon the brown crab mayonnaise in the centre and the white meat on top and scatter the chives around. Finish by spooning a little oil over the tomatoes.
The Kings Arms Thornford DT9 6QD
The Quintessential Village Pub
Local and West Country Ales, a fine wine and drinks selection, a menu using locally sourced ingredients Family and dog friendly. Wed and Thur 12noon-2.30pm & 6.00pm-10.00pm Friday 12noon-2.30pm & 6.00pm-11.00pm Saturday 12noon-11.00pm Sunday 12noon-6.00pm
Conduit Discount Code – 'ConduitJuly10'
10% off your complete bill when you dine with us on Wednesday or Thursday throughout July. Offer only available for tables booked in advance and you must quote the discount code at the time of booking, offer not available for casual dining.
www.kingsarmsthornford.com
01935 872294
33
FOOD & DRINK
A VINTNER’S TALE (ACT 2 SCENE VII) Peter Law, Chairman and MD at Wine Wizzard in Castle Cary, continues with his fascinating tales of life in the wine trade… With hindsight, I think I may have unknowingly had Covid and maybe at least once – luckily I have had all four vaccinations, but it has left me exceptionally tired and my working day greatly shortened – so apologies for my recent absence. As you can imagine, the triple whammy of Brexit, the pandemic and now war in Europe with all their consequences has made running an independent wine importer and merchant more difficult than usual. There has been a haulage strike in Spain, shipments from South America are already more than two months overdue and there has been a shortage of bottles, labels, cardboard, etc. However, having already lived through innumerable financial crises during my long working life, I have learned to live with them, curse the effects of successive governments of either hue and raise a glass of good wine to better days ahead. Back in Malmesbury in the 1970s, an enterprising couple decided to open a restaurant next to the beautiful abbey and called it ‘The Dirty Habit’ (!) which didn’t go down too well locally and they renamed it ‘The Apostle Spoon’. One evening they decided to do a streak around the town, apparently culminating in some overamorous activities, falling down the stairs and each breaking a leg! During this time, The World Wine Fair happened in Bristol which was a huge success and the late John Arlott, famous cricketing correspondent and wine writer for The Guardian, wrote that The Malmesbury Vintner stole the show. The London-centric wine trade didn’t like that we, mere provincials, were having such success and eventually had it closed down. 34
One day, on delivering about 500 expensive bottles to Whatley Manor Hotel, just outside Malmesbury, in my sturdy Peugeot 504 estate, it slipped its handbrake, demolished a stone wall and ended up on a tennis court. Not even the headlights were broken and neither was a single bottle! Ever since then I have always left my cars in gear. Another day I was talking to a local farmer who bred and exported prize pigs to France and Italy and as he was already paid for the return journey, he was very happy to transport wine for me, for beer money, having had his truck steam cleaned. He told me that he had had to deliver a giraffe to a zoo, so he cut a hole in the roof. On approaching a low bridge, he had to lead it under the bridge, tether it to a tree whilst he retrieved his lorry! On another occasion he had to deliver two tigers to a zoo in France and on being stopped by the French Customs was asked to open the rear doors, he refused and explained why. The customs officers laughed and promptly opened them. One of them was badly mauled. Once a week I was leaving for London, fully loaded in a van at about 6am, returning, again fully loaded at midnight, having also made two trips to the East End warehouse. About 3600 bottles for the day! In order to save myself time and energy, I found a small, local, family owned transport company who could deliver in London the following morning, if I could get to their depot by midnight. My London restaurant customers began complaining that it was too efficient!
doctor, Michael Pym (father of Hugh, the BBC’s pandemic correspondent), was selling. It was not to be as my wife at the time wanted to move to Bath for the sake of her children, so I bought a small but lovely John Wood Jr. house behind the Circus with splendid four-storey suspended stone staircase and another Georgian house in Broad Street comprising of two shops and three flats. I had by this time sold the four cottages (now one house and shop) in Malmesbury, bought the long-established existing wine merchant and sold the business to the now-defunct Threshers. I was about to open a wine merchants in one of my shops in central Bath but spotted a recession on the way and moved to France… End of an era. Back in the here and now, after a long struggle, a long-awaited shipment of about 5000 bottles has finally arrived from France and we are trying to get it through customs. The chateau owner has generously kept price rises to a minimum. There are four delicious wines – an unoaked Chardonnay, a demi-sec Muscat Petit Grain and an oak-aged red and white from Gaillac – lots of medals, great quality and well priced. Also, recently new in is a rosé from Touraine made from the Gamay grape – classy. At the time of writing (12 June), it looks, hopefully, that summer might eventually happen and as you can imagine we have lots of lovely wines waiting for you. Linda, as usual, is doing a stalwart job in running the shop and looks forward to seeing you and helping you make your selections for the coming sunny months.
I was interested in buying The Tower House in Malmesbury which my retired
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
TRAVEL
ALL ABOUT ESCORTED TOURS
By Heather Muir, Manager – Miles Morgan Travel, Yeovil Exploring is one of life's gifts. Here at Miles Morgan Travel we believe that a holiday is not just about the destination, it's about new experiences and the bonds that are made along the way. Escorted Touring is an ideal way to create these experiences. We are delighted to be a main agent for Riviera Travel who have just launched their brand new 2023 touring programme. These escorted tours offer the best way to truly get under the skin of a new destination, with insightful tours and experiences led by expert local guides fully included in your price; enjoy port tasting in Portugal or pasta-making in Italy. Stay in hand-picked hotels, carefully chosen for their location, spectacular views, or exceptional features. Whether it's exploring the idyllic shores of Lake Como or delving into the fascinating culture of Japan, all holidays promise new opportunities for discovery. On a Riviera European tour, choose from Classic or Small Group Tours, which have a maximum of 25 in a group.
New 2023 Tours On Sale at
choose from more than 50 regional rail connections. Stay in hand-picked quality hotels with a programme of daily tours and visits. New tours for 2023 include Stockholm and Copenhagen, Pisa, the Cinque Terre and Portofino, and Northern Cyprus. Riviera also have their popular river cruises on sale for 2023, so, whichever you choose, the team here in Yeovil can offer expert advice and knowledge. Either call us on 01935 428488 or pop in and see us at 14-16 Middle Street, Yeovil. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Miles Morgan Travel
New Riviera Travel Brochure Out Now
Contact our Travel Specialists today Phone lines open until 10pm
www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk
01935 428488 14-16 Middle Street Yeovil BA20 1LY
The new brochure is packed full of more than 70 amazing tours to choose from which include return flights from more than 12 regional airports, including Bristol. If you prefer to travel by Eurostar you can
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TRAVEL
GOING TO BATTLE By Tim Saunders, Travel Correspondent We live in troubled times and my little son Henry (6) is worried about Russia invading England. History is so vital to our learning and so when my wife and I take him and his sisters to Battle in East Sussex we learn how England, a little island on its own, was in a similarly vulnerable state back in 1066. To our surprise King Harold was replaced by a Frenchman, William the Conqueror – a man who always got what he wanted. Caroline and I had obviously heard of William the Conqueror but we had not realised that he was French. ‘He was a bastard,’ the powerful audio guide informs us, adding that if anyone said that to his face, they had their hands chopped off. King Harold had won a bloody battle in Yorkshire and his men had marched the 250 miles to Battle where these tired souls fought the Norman invaders and unsurprisingly lost. However, think of how tired the opposition must have been having sailed across from France. We learn that the Battle of Hastings – this major battle in British history – took place on 14 October 1066. A date that I won’t forget for the simple fact that my dad was born on that date but obviously not in 1066. There’s a gripping video in the Discovery Centre, and then the audio guide is with us as we walk through history, around the site. It really does allow us to immerse ourselves. Although, admittedly it is difficult to devote 100 per cent of your attention as a parent of three rascals aged 11 and under, you glean enough to relive the experience back at home. 36
We walk to the actual battlefield and imagine those shattered troops climbing the steep hill. We are told that it would have been much steeper than it is today. The archers and the arrows; Harold is thought to have been killed by an arrow in the eye but this is conjecture. The armour is awe-inspiring; made up of little circles of metal that are welded together and that was all the protection these fighters received apart from their distinctive helmets. ‘Weren’t they cold?’ asks Caroline. Probably. We visit in February and the wind is biting, not that dissimilar to some October weather. So being out in the elements gives a good idea of how those 7,000 British troops must have felt. They all died. We learn that a typical town at that time would have had around 2,500 residents. So it puts it into perspective what a bloodbath it must have been. The Normans got each and every one of them. Even William’s horse was killed. To think that we walk around a site where so many men fell, makes you shudder. The ugliness of war. Yet we do not learn. Perhaps as a way of seeking God’s forgiveness once William was on the throne, he set about building the abbey, installing monks and creating a community. It is quite a substantial site, today surrounded by much traffic. The children thoroughly enjoy exploring the site and Henry likes to take the lead, absolutely engrossed. For more information visit, www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/1066-battle-ofhastings-abbey-and-battlefield. Get more travel inspiration at www.travelwriter.biz.
DAY TRIPS AND SHORT BREAKS Visit our website www.bakerscoaches-somerset.co.uk for more trip information or ring 01935 428401
Compton Acres & Harbour Cruise with fish & chips 16 July £58.00 Day In Looe 2 August £45 Day In Swanage 4 August £15 adult & £10 child Beaulieu & Bond In Motion Exhibit 9 August £52 adult/£45 child Day In Teignmouth 11 August £25 Day In Seaton 15 August £22 adult & £18 child Sudeley Castle 18 August £52 Weymouth for the day 23 August £11 adult/£10 child St Fagan’s National Museum of History 25 August £49 Day In Exmouth 26 August £23 Dartmouth for the day 6 September £29 RHS Wisley Flower Show 10 September £60 Birmingham International Tattoo 11 September £79 Bucklers Hard with river cruise 15 September £45 Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village 20 September £45 NT Member £31 Lion King at The Mayflower Theatre 22 September £99 East Somerset Railway Sparkling Afternoon Tea 25 September £49 Westonbirt Arboretum 27 September £38.50 The Eden Project 29 September £59 adult £57 senior, £49 child We are the proud sponsers of “The Pride of Yeovil” Awards organised by CalisMedia
HEALTH & WELLBEING
PATTERN MATCHING AND PAIN By Dr Andrea Haas, Inner Strength
Have you ever wondered why some things in your life seem to just spiral out of control, and you can’t put your finger on why? Well, it’s due to the brain’s innate quality to pattern match. Pattern matching allows us to not only learn quicker but also to be more flexible as human beings. We are not the only species to pattern match. If you look in a bird’s nest you don’t just see twigs, you also see bits of wool, rubber, wire and so on, because they all have something similar to a twig. Pattern matching is what allows us to pick up a new car and be able to drive it within minutes of sitting in it. We don’t require another six months of driving lessons! There are enough similarities between the old and new car. All qualities of the brain have a down side. It is through pattern matching that if someone has a car accident at a T-junction, several months later that person may have become too anxious to even get in the car. Through feeling anxious, the subconscious forces you to avoid all T-junctions, and then it decides that roundabouts are very similar to T-junctions, so you start avoiding roundabouts. And then one day the subconscious decides the slipway onto the motorway is very similar to a T-junction. Through pattern matching, a panic attack in Sainsbury’s may eventually result in general anxiety. It's pattern matching that can cause pain to get worse. You may have had your first episode
of backpain from bending over to pick something up. The brain becomes conditioned so that every time you bend over you get pain. However, bending over to pick something up is very similar to unloading the dishwasher, making the bed, driving the car. Through pattern matching, the brain decides to produce pain with all these activities. Eventually, it could potentially lead to pain on doing everything. Have you ever wondered why your pain seems to be affected by the weather? Let’s say your first episode of back pain was in the autumn, when you happened to slip on some wet leaves when it was raining. The brain takes a snapshot of that incident. This snapshot is like a 3D photo. This would include the weather, the temperature, the autumnal leaves, the smell, and sounds you may have heard. The next time it rains, the brain is triggered to produce pain. So, what can you do about this? In stead of getting frustrated that you have pain yet again, start pondering as to whether there are any similarities to the episodes, and any possible triggers. By doing this you will have a better understanding of what is going on, which will make you feel more in control rather than your pain being in control of you. Next time, we will be exploring the fact that the brain can not tell the difference between imagination and reality and how it relates to pain.
MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH In England, around 1 in 4 men will have a common mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) during their lifetime. Statistics show that three times as many men as women die by suicide and that men aged 45-49 have the highest suicide rates in the UK. Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50. Men are less likely to access mental health services than women: only 36% of referrals to the NHS are for men.
support each other and get help when they need it. To find out more, go to www.secondstep.co.uk/stepladder or email stepladdersomerset@secondstep.co.uk or call Somerset Mindline on 0800 138 1692 which is available 24/7 for more information or if you need to talk.
Some men find it difficult to seek help for any kind of emotional distress. Those who don’t feel able to talk openly about their emotions might be less able to recognise the signs and to reach out for support or talk to friends and family, sometimes using harmful coping methods such as drugs or alcohol.
The Open Mental Health Alliance brings together all the mental health support services in Somerset – you can visit www.openmentalhealth.org.uk or call the Somerset Mindline number above.
However, men will access help that is meaningful and engaging and easy to access. Sometimes men’s sheds provide a great space for men to get together, doing and making something practical and finding companionship. There are sheds across the area – to find your local one, go to www.menssheds.org.uk/find-ashed or call 0300 772 9626.
If you are in crisis and need immediate support, please dial 999 or call the free Samaritans Helpline on 116 123. For more information about wellbeing in South Somerset, visit www. wellbeingsouthsomerset.org.
Stepladder is a part of Open Mental Health Somerset and works with communities, groups and organisations across Somerset to find new ways for men to connect,
Dr Andrea Haas 07770 672122 www.andrea-inner-strength.co.uk
Managing pain without the use of medication 37
HEALTH & WELLBEING
WHY GOOD INTENTIONS MAY FAIL! By Tracy Frost
Inner Sparkle Aroma Touch Holistic Life Coach Essential Oils
How often do we want to change ourselves, grow and become a better version of ourselves? I know I have thought this and still do. Things like drinking more water, achieving better sleep, eating healthier, exercising more are just a few things that occupy our thoughts. Today’s world is a much faster pace of life. We are always hooked up to something: our phones, social media, TV, our work – we never seem to switch off. If we don’t take care of ourselves, including mind, body and spirit, we may feel like we are on a never-ending hamster wheel of things to do. This is why we need to understand how we work.
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They say it takes 21 days to form a new habit. Doing that one little change every day helps our brains form a new pathway; once these are formed and we are carrying out our new chosen habit, the old one loses its route. At that point we may be able to look at adding something else we would like to change. We need to add the good first, not worry about stopping the ‘bad’; it is easier to focus on the new and allow the bad to disappear on its own. This all sounds good, doesn’t it? And simple, yes? Well it is, but we need to understand how our body and mind work, as they are there to keep us safe and out of danger. When we start new things, it triggers
Reiki our protection mechanism, it notices on a subconscious level that something is different, and it feels those changes even though they are slight. Things are now out of the subconscious comfort zone and you may feel tight in your body, get a headache or not be able to sleep. When this happens, trying to keep up a new habit becomes more difficult. This is the point where we forget to continue with our new habit or we say ‘I will start again tomorrow’. I know because I have done this so often and then get annoyed at myself for not continuing to do something, for example, drink more water.
Tracy Frost 07401 520794 tj.frost@live.com @tjInnerSparkle www.inner-sparkle.com When we stop, we also stop the new pathway and because it is so new, it disappears. Our autopilot kicks in and we don’t have to think because the other old pathways, created a long time ago, feel natural. So be gentle with yourself if you are trying to add something different into your life, start small and manageable. I hope this has given you a little insight into how and why we find it a challenge to change. If you feel you need to talk, please give me a call. Until next time, much love, Tracy x
Keep your little ones busy this Summer.
Holiday activities now available to book. • Monday 25th July - Friday 26th August • 8-14 years
For more information and to book your place please call reception on 01935 818270 or visit our website www.oxleysc.com/holiday-activities
PET HEALTH
HEATSTROKE – NOT JUST DOGS IN HOT CARS By Kate Knill BVetMed(hons) PGcertSAECC
It’s easy for our pets to overheat in warm weather. Unlike us, they cannot remove layers when it gets hot, and they don’t always have an option to move themselves to cooler places or avoid the sun. Animals are unable to cool down by sweating as humans do, so they are less able to regulate their body temperature. Dogs, cats and rabbits can suffer from heatstroke, a lifethreatening condition where body temperature increases to a point where serious consequences, including multiple organ failure and death, can occur. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent your pet from overheating: • Never leave pets in a car or hot room (e.g. conservatory)
• Ensure drinking water is always available • Ensure access to cool, shaded areas • Exercise early in the morning, or late at night • Pack a water bottle on walks • Plan walks around routes with access to water for your dog to cool off • Ensure your pet is regularly groomed if appropriate (consider clipping the belly bare on very hairy animals) • Hot pavements can burn paws! Test with your hand Certain animals are at greater risk from developing heatstroke, such as flat-faced breeds (pugs, French/British bulldogs, Persian cats), overweight animals, pets with thick coats, old or very young animals and those with pre-existing conditions such as heart, lung or airway problems.
142 Preston Road, Yeovil Somerset BA20 2EE Lower Acreman Street Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3EX www.newtonclarkevet.com
If your pet falls into one of these categories, be extra careful.
confusion, collapse and seizures develop.
It doesn’t always have to be ‘hot’ for an animal to develop heatstroke. I recall vividly treating a spaniel that developed heatstroke after playing fetch on a moderately warm day. Sadly, despite intensive treatment, we could not save him, the memory of his suffering will never leave me. Excessive exercise has been shown to be responsible for three quarters of cases of heatstroke in dogs. Dogs often don’t know when to stop, so it is up to us as owners to be in control.
If you are concerned that your pet is overheating, simple first aid measures can be lifesaving. Take them somewhere cool and well ventilated, use a fan if available. Offer sips of water, but do not force them to drink. Cool them by pouring small amounts of cool or lukewarm water on them. Do not use cold water; it reduces blood flow to their skin, reducing their ability to cool down. Call your vet who will be able to advise you further and likely want to see your pet as soon as possible.
Early signs of heatstroke include panting, which can progress to noisy breathing, restlessness or agitation, seeking shade or water, drooling, red gums, vomiting or diarrhoea. As the condition worsens, lethargy,
Heatstroke is a horrible condition that can spiral out of control very quickly. Early recognition and prompt initiation of these measures can help to reduce the risks of any serious consequences, but avoidance is always best.
NATURE SPOT July heralds the emergence of one of our most beautiful butterflies, the brown hairstreak. Shockingly, 50% of the remaining butterfly species in Britain are now listed as threatened or near threatened on the Red List. While some species have been brought back from the brink of extinction by successful, long-term conservation work, it’s clear more needs to be done. There are five species of hairstreak butterfly in the UK and we are extremely privileged that we have four of the five species locally here in Dorset and Somerset; the green hairstreak, purple hairstreak, whiteletter hairstreak and the stunning brown hairstreak, pictured here. Sadly, the black hairstreak is now confined to more northern regions of the UK. Nature photographer Colin Lawrence, who photographed this brown hairstreak, says that if you are extremely lucky you are able to see all four locally on a single day 40
at the same location, in spite of their wide individual breeding cycle from March to September. The black hairstreak and brown hairstreak have faced losses due to inappropriate hedgerow and woodland edge management. The white -letter hairstreak has suffered due to Dutch elm disease since the 1970s. Even the more common purple hairstreak and green hairstreak have suffered declines in recent years. Colin says it’s worth looking up at prominent ash and oak trees along wood edges to see if small clusters of adult hairstreak may be flitting around. They congregate to mate and feed on aphid honeydew. Adults also sometimes feed lower down on flowers such as hemp agrimony, common fleabane and bramble. The females are most frequently seen as they disperse widely along hedgerows where they lay conspicuous white eggs on young blackthorn shoots.
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HISTORY
STILL SERVING BEER AFTER 600 YEARS - THE GEORGE INN, HIGHER CHEAP STREET By Barry Brock
Did you know that the red pillar box standing across Higher Cheap Street from The
George Inn was known as an ‘Anonymous’ box? It’s Victorian, but made without the usual royal cipher, crown and ‘Post Office’ written on it, and hence: ‘Anonymous’. The inn itself is much, much older, mentioned for the first time during the Wars of the Roses, when Henry VI was still king - this happened in 1459, when Richard Coot and John Osteler of The George Inn were accused in the Sherborne Hundred Court of overcharging for hay and oats; and then in 1462, with Edward IV now on the throne, ‘le Georgesyn’ is mentioned in a Sherborne almshouse account. The inn building we see today was built during the early sixteenth century, and is of similar age to the Julian next door, but much altered and modernised since then. In 1618, Sir Walter Raleigh’s servants and minor companions stayed at the George, while accompanying him to London for his appointment with the axe – James I could not deny the Spanish ambassador’s demands for Raleigh’s head, after Raleigh’s men had attacked a Spanish settlement (when he had sworn not to do so) during his second expedition to Venezuela.
Brought up in Somerset, but spending his latter years in Norfolk, James Woodforde was an eighteenth-century parson who kept a daily diary, which gives a unique insight into rural England at the time. Woodforde dined at the George on 21 July 1779, but it seems he was not impressed: ‘We dined at Sherborn at the George a shabby Inn and had a most miserable Dinner, about 2 Pound of boiled beef and a old Tame Rabbitt. I paid for my Dinner &c. at Sherbourne one shilling and sixpence. We then went on to Dorchester & there we had a Bottle of the famous Dorchester Beer & very good it was. For the Bottle of Beer I paid myself sixpence.’ The George has passed through many hands since then. Purchased by the Dorsetshire Brewery in Long Street, it was then sold to the Woolmington Brewery, and on to Eldridge, Pope of Dorchester, and finally to Marston’s. Landlords have come and gone too. Can anyone
remember Peter and Marge Pyman? Peter ran a tight house – no ‘roadies’ and no television except for sport. Harold Mayell followed the Pymans, a jolly chap, but he wasn’t cut out to be a landlord. And then there were all those that followed them. But now, thank goodness, things have improved since Woodforde’s ‘old Tame Rabbitt’. Unlike so many of Sherborne’s old pubs, the George is still open and selling beer, so do think about paying a visit. If you do go in, then be sure to look at some of the things that make it special: the original moulded ceiling beams (suggesting a high-status building), the stone fireplace, and the spice cupboard to one side. Oh, and don’t forget the beer. My thanks to Roger Marsh for his recollections of the George in the 1960s. Do you have any memories of Sherborne’s pubs that you’d like to share with me? Just send your email address to the editor of The Conduit and I’ll get back to you.
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WALKING
THROUGH THEIR EYES – THINGS TO DO ON WALKS WITH CHILDREN By Rachel Woods
I don’t have kids myself. I am, however a proud aunty to several and I find their sense of awe and wonder inspiring – when we can drag them away from the iPads and game systems that is. Nature has a way of surprising us if we’re prepared to get up close and personal. Delights exist around every corner and in nooks and crannies we grown-ups tend to overlook. I consider myself nature connected but I wanted to test my sense of curiosity through their eyes. Am I still taking it all too academically? What if I can just sit with wonder? I’ve compiled this list from chats with some parents I know and a few ideas of my own… things I intend to do when I next have the opportunity to borrow one of my smaller relatives for an adventure. • Let them have the map! Draw one or show them an OS map depending on age. Let them lead the way and guide the adventure to the target (make sure there is one!) Great if it can be an actual waterfall or castle but a weird tree that might be magical or a space in a wall where fairies have been known to appear could be just as motivating. • Toss a coin. Left or right with heads or tails. Clearly this needs to be on familiar ground to you, but for kids it’s so much easier for it to feel super new. The anticipation and sense of not knowing where you might end up is exciting. Be prepared for a longer than planned walk back to the car! • Start a nature diary. Draw, write, collect leaves or flowers to press and make an entry for your adventures together. Decorate the book on a rainy day ready for your next trip out. Make sure a contact number is in it for when awe distracts and it gets left somewhere.
• Treasure or scavenger hunt. Collect actual things (leaves, twigs, moss, grasses, etc.) or collect photos. List what to look out for such as something pink, bumpy, slimy, funny, smooth or shiny. Give extra points for noticing bonus items. • Adventure by torchlight. What an adventure! Maybe one for the winter since bedtime wouldn’t be affected by a torchlight walk spotting what shows up at night and then home for hot chocolate and a walking story. • Take a picnic – let them choose the spot. Finally, I learned early in my aunty training was to make sure I was equipped with snacks and drinks. And wipes and a plastic bag for sitting on and taking litter home. Have a change of clothes back at the car and not to forget suncream and hats or waterproofs for a soggy adventure. All of these activities normalise walking and connecting with the natural world. This is something incredibly good for our minds and a habit that’s so healthy to instil from a young age. Joining in, we adults can reconnect with our inner child too. Oops see, I’m getting all academic again. Go on, get out and do some bark rubbings yourself and send me a picture… I double donkey dare you!
• Bark rubbings. Tree bark is all manner of bumpy; with some reasonable A4 paper and some fat coloured crayons, the effects can be stunning. 42
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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
If an item/items are valued at more than £200 there will be a £6 charge. Wanted adverts are also charged at £6.
• Making/restoring leaded windows • Hanging doors
• Fitting fences and gates • Exterior lime mortaring
01935 808052
With over 20 years’ experience for a friendly reliable service please give me a call
WANTED Dave buys all types of tools. Tel: 01935 428975
Dry Stone Walling and Paving All types of stone walling undertaken www.yenstonewalling.co.uk
01963 371123 Patrick Houchen - DSWA member
Professional & reliable service
GUNS WANTED FOR CASH Any Condition. SOS to all air rifles and pistols any maker or model. We collect in any area. Top prices paid in cash
ALSO GUNS SOLD
07970 742471
ALSO GUNS SOLD
Plants for sale, including herbs, hostas, heucheras and planted containers, some in terracotta and glazed pots, from £5 Tel: 01460 55105 (Ilminster)
WE WANT YOU! Just £60 buys an ADVERT here!
Tel: 01935 424724
Curtain-upholstery/Dressmaking-Quilting Fabrics Haberdashery & Yarn and much more Find us opposite the Octagon Theatre, Yeovil
Domestic and contract flooring specialists 34 Princes Street, Yeovil BA20 1EQ
Tel: 01935 478100
walterwallyeovil@hotmail.co.uk To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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Providing Dental Care for the Yeovil area since 1864 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
