Sherborne Times December 2017

DECEMBER 2017 | FREE

A MONTHLY CELEBR ATION OF PEOPLE, PLACE AND PURVEYOR

HOME SWEET HOME Christmas with Lesley Waters

sherbornetimes.co.uk

Cover Image: With thanks to Fleur Provocateur fleurprovocateur.co.uk

WELCOME

I

’ve always thought of Sherborne as a town to come home to. A town to which we take crowded trains from bullish cities, sporting ruddy cheeks and luggage. Winter smears past steamy windows in shades of grey then greens and browns, as the concrete sprawl gives way to a heaving, breathing fertile ground. Late December, Sherborne station, all winter coats and hugs, is an enchanting place to be.

Chef Lesley Waters took a similar journey to West Dorset some 16 years ago, making a home here for her young family and setting up the Lesley Waters Cookery School. As a high-profile celebrity chef, Lesley is very familiar with the joy of coming home and is looking forward to hosting friends and family this Christmas. Katharine Davies and Jo Denbury spend a morning with Lesley as she prepares for their arrival and shares some very special festive recipes.

Have a wonderful Christmas, wherever you happen to be.

Glen Cheyne, Editor editor@sherbornetimes.co.uk @sherbornetimes

CONTRIBUTORS Editorial and creative direction Glen Cheyne Design Andy Gerrard Photography Katharine Davies Feature writer Jo Denbury Editorial assistant Helen Brown Illustrations Elizabeth Watson Print Pureprint Distribution team David Elsmore Christine Knott Sarah Morgan Mary & Roger Napper Alfie Neville-Jones Maggie Pelly Claire Pilley Geoff Wood

Sarah Attwood Thrive Health and Wellness @thrivehw thrivehealthwellness.co.uk Simon Barber Evolver Magazine @SimonEvolver evolver.org.uk Deborah Bathurst Sherborne Literary Society @SherborneLitSoc sherborneliterarysociety.com Laurence Belbin laurencebelbin.com David Birley Elisabeth Bletsoe Sherborne Museum @SherborneMuseum sherbornemuseum.co.uk Richard Bromell ASFAV Charterhouse Auctioneers and Valuers @CharterhouseAV charterhouse-auction.com Mike Burks The Gardens Group @TheGardensGroup thegardeneronline.co.uk Michelle and Rob Comins Comins Tea House @cominsteahouse cominstea.com

Contact 01935 315556 @sherbornetimes editor@sherbornetimes.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk

Gillian M Constable DWT Sherborne Group @DorsetWildlife dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

Homegrown

Jenny Dickinson Dear to Me Studio, Fine Stationery @DearToMeStudio deartome.co.uk

Homegrown Media Ltd 81 Cheap Street Sherborne Dorset DT9 3BA Sherborne Times is printed on Edixion Offset, an FSC® and EU Ecolabel certified paper. It goes without saying that once thoroughly well read, this magazine is easily recycled and we actively encourage you to do so.

David Copp

Ellie Green Oxley Sports Centre @OxleySports oxleysc.com Jackie Hart M.St. Psychodynamic Practice (Oxon), BACP Accredited The London Road Clinic @56londonroad 56londonroad.co.uk Peter Henshaw & Mike Riley Riley’s Cycles @rileyscycles rileyscycles.co.uk @DCNSherborne dcn.org.uk Sarah Hitch The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms @SanctuaryDorset thesanctuarysherborne.co.uk Colin Lambert colinlambert.co.uk Loretta Lupi-Lawrence The Sherborne Rooms thesherbornerooms.com Sasha Matkevich The Green Restaurant @greensherborne greenrestaurant.co.uk Mark Newton-Clarke MA VetMB PhD MRCVS Newton Clarke Veterinary Partnership @swanhousevet newtonclarkevet.com

Monsignor Robert Draper Roman Catholic Church

Kitty Oakshott Upstairs Downstairs Interiors @updowninteriors updowninteriors.co.uk

Sarah Dunlop Mogers Drewett Solicitors @mogersdrewett md-solicitors.co.uk

Luke Pender-Cudlip Knight Frank @kfsherborne knightfrank.co.uk

Elizabeth Evensen Dorchester Arts @DorchesterArts dorchesterarts.org.uk

Lindsay Punch Lindsay Punch Styling @stylistmum lindsaypunchstyling.co.uk

Melanie Fermor Dorset Wildlife Trust @DorsetWildlife dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

Dr Tim Robinson MB BS MSc MRCGP DRCOG MFHom Glencairn House Clinic glencairnhouse.co.uk doctortwrobinson.com

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither Sherborne Times nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Sherborne Times does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without prior permission from Sherborne Times.

Nick Folland Sherborne Preparatory School @Sherborneprep sherborneprep.org

Additional photography: contributor's own, Shutterstock and iStock

Andrew Fort B.A. (Econ.)

CFPcm Chartered MCSI APFS Fort Financial Planning ffp.org.uk

4 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Paul Gammage & Anita Light EweMove Sherborne @ewemoveyeovil ewemove.com Fiona Gerardin Bere Marsh Farm @BereMarshFarm beremarshfarm.co.uk

Jimmy Flynn Milborne Port Computers @MPortComputers computing-mp.co.uk

Paul Stickland Black Shed Flowers @NaughtyDinosaur blackshedflowers.blogspot.co.uk Val Stones @valstones bakerval.com Wayne Winstone Winstone’s Books @winstonebooks winstonebooks.co.uk

66 8

What’s On

DECEMBER 2017 54 Antiques

118 Tech

22 Shopping Guide

58 Gardening

120 Folk Tales

26 Wild Dorset

66 LESLEY WATERS

122 Short Story

31 Family

74 Food & Drink

123 Literature

32 Unearthed

86 Animal Care

124 Directory

36 Profile - Doodles Play Cafe

90 Cycling

128 Crossword

42 Art

92 Body & Mind

129 Pause for Thought

44 History

107 Property

130 Councillor David Birley

46 Interiors

115 Finance

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 5

We’re holding all the cards.

Yeovil Audi. Look No Further.

At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) retain the vehicle: pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle, finance subject to status.

Offers available when purchased on a Solutions Personal Contract Plan for vehicles ordered by 31st October. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned.

Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Available to 18’s and over. Subject to availability.

Terms and conditions apply. Finance subject to status. Accurate at time of publication [October 2017]. Freepost Audi Finance. Ocean Automotive Ltd (t/a Yeovil Audi) acts as a credit broker and not a lender. Images are shown for illustration purposes only. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Audi range: Urban 16.1-65.7 (7.5-4.3), Extra Urban 30.4-83.1 (9.3-3.4), Combined 23.0-76.3 (12.3-3.7). CO2 emissions: 287-97g/km. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Optional wheels may affect emissions and fuel consumption figures.

Representative finance example for A1 HAT 1.4 TFSI Sport Duration

Representative finance example for A5 Coupé 2.0 TFSI

49 months

Optional final payment

£7,549.90

£199

Option to purchase fee

£10

£1,750

Total amount payable

£20,386.90

Yeovil Audi deposit contribution

£1,525

Total amount of credit

£14,515

Retail cash price

£17,790

Representative APR

Acceptance fee

£0

48 monthly payments of Customer deposit

Rate of interest (fixed)

Duration 48 monthly payments of Customer deposit Yeovil Audi deposit contribution

49 months £325 £1,999 £5,550

5.9%

Retail cash price

£33,435

5.84%

Acceptance fee

£0

Take your pick at yeovilaudi.co.uk Save up to £10,750 when you scrap your older diesel car *.

Yeovil Audi Houndstone Business Park, Mead Avenue, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8RT

01935 574981

yeovilaudi.co.uk  

Scrappage scheme.

The old vehicle to be scrapped must be a Euro 1 to Euro 4 diesel passenger car first registered on or before 31 December 2009. Any make and any model is accepted, and must have been owned for 6 months or more. Available for selected new petrol, diesel or e-tron Audi cars only; used cars will not qualify.

Not available in combination with any other offers, including any finance offers. New vehicle purchase is for retail customers only and must be registered in the same customer name as the old vehicle being traded in. Scrappage incentive is applicable for new Audi orders placed up to and including 31 December 2017 and registered by 31 March 2018.

Sport

Representative finance example for Q3 2.0 TDI Sport Optional final payment

£14,646.59

Option to purchase fee

£10

Total amount payable

£37,805.59

Total amount of credit

£25,886

Representative APR Rate of interest (fixed)

Duration 48 monthly payments of Customer deposit Yeovil Audi deposit contribution

49 months

Optional final payment

£299

Option to purchase fee

£10

£2,999

Total amount payable

£32,538.50

£3,350

Total amount of credit

£22,801

5.4%

Retail cash price

£29,150

5.36%

Acceptance fee

£0

Representative APR Rate of interest (fixed)

£11,827.50

4.8% 4.84%

8 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

DECEMBER 2017 Listings

Saturday 2nd - Sunday 10th

____________________________

Christmas Tree Festival

First Thursday

Cheap Street Church

of each month 9.30am

opportunity for questions, focusing

on the Sudan and South Sudan and

____________________________

countries beyond. Tickets £7, to include mulled wine and mince pies, available from the Parish Office.

Saturday 2nd 11am-4pm

Outside Olivers coffee shop. Want to

Festive White Wines in-store tasting

Monday 4th 10am-3.30pm

entrepreneurs? We use the footpaths

Vineyards, Digby Road

Advent Quiet Day

meet other small business owners and around Sherborne or quieter areas of the town to walk and talk. It’s free, we just ask that you bring the desire to move

your business forward as well as helping

others to do the same. Visit Facebook @

10am-4pm

Networking Group

____________________________

Memorial Hall, Digby Road. Led by

SHERBORNE FESTIVE SHOPPING DAY

Sunday, 3rd December

01935 812452

____________________________

____________________________

First Thursday of each month

Wednesday 6th 2pm & 8pm

2pm-3.30pm

Arts Society talk Christmas at Covent Garden

Supported by

The Shielings, The Avenue, DT9 3AJ. Good company, advice, information,

relaxed atmosphere and more, just for you! For more information call Sarah

01935 601499 or Richard 01935 816321 ____________________________ Saturday 2nd 9am-11am

and pen, and a picnic lunch. Tea, coffee place please contact the Parish Office.

for more information

Drop in for a coffee, cake and a chat.

Enever. Please bring a Bible, notebook and soup will be provided. To book a

yourtimelifecoaching or yourtimecoaching.com

“My Time” Carers’ Support Group

The Rural Dean, The Revd Vivian

Digby Hall, Hound St. Sarah Lenton,

Organisers @ShopinSherborne

who has spent her working life in

@SherborneCOT ABBEY CHURCH SERVICES

MUSIC, BANDS & CHOIRS

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

STREET ENTERTAINMENT

Sunday 3rd 10am-4pm

Sherborne Festive Shopping Day CHILDREN’S COMPETITION

FESTIVE SHOPS & STALLS

SANTA’S GROTTO

LOCAL PRODUCE

ABBEY104 LIVE BROADCAST

PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

Throughout Sherborne town centre.

4p

The it du Con

PARADE & LIGHTING THE TREE Street entertainment, shops, stalls music,m6

PLEASE NOTE: NO VEHICLE ACCESS TO CHEAP STREET OR DIGBY ROAD ON 3RD DEC UNTIL

PM

bands, choirs, local produce, food & drink,

ORGANISED BY SHERBORNE CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE, SUPPORTED BY SHERBORNE TOWN COUNCIL WWW.SHERBORNECHAMBER.CO.UK ST Full Page Festive Shopping 2017.indd 1

04/10/2017 18:48:56

Santa’s grotto, Christmas tree festival,

the theatre, illuminates 300 years of

Christmas shows at one of London’s

great theatres, the Royal Opera House. £5. 01935 474626. For information: theartssocietysherborne.org.uk

____________________________

Abbey 104 live broadcast, shoppers’ carols

Thursday 7th 2.30pm

3.30pm. Advent carol service at 5pm.

Sherborne Museum Winter

with the purchase of an adult breakfast

Sunday 3rd 6pm

at Lord Digby’s School

(applies to children up to 10 years old).

Advent Jazz

Food Bank collection for anyone wishing

The Raleigh Hall, Digby Road. Talk

to contribute. A community event

Tindall Hall, Sherborne School.

organised by Folke Church

Swing and jazz band performances.

01935 812249

Big Butty Christmas Breakfast Alweston Village Hall. Christmas raffle, preserves, mince pies, children’s activity table etc. A free child’s butty breakfast

____________________________

in the Abbey at 1.30pm, 2.30pm &

____________________________

(doors open 2pm) Talk Series: Looking Back

& material relating to the story of this

historic building, with speaker Barbara

Elsmore. Admission £5, free to museum members. Tea and cake included. 01935 812252 sherbornemuseum.co.uk

Saturday 2nd 2.30pm

Sunday 3rd 8.15pm

Christmas Entertainment -

Advent Carol Service

The Trinity Entertainers

Sherborne Abbey

Saturday 9th 11am-4pm

____________________________

Festive Red Wines -

Vale and Yeovil National Trust Assoc.

Monday 4th 7pm

in-store tasting

New members welcome, annual

Trials and Tribulations

membership is £5. 01935 425383

Vineyards, Digby Road

bvyntmembership@outlook.com

Memorial Hall, Digby Road. An

____________________________

illustrated talk, for Christian Aid,

by Robert Hayward OBE, with an

Digby Hall, Hound St. Blackmore

____________________________

____________________________ Saturday 9th 7pm The Mill Singers present sherbornetimes.co.uk | 9

WHAT'S ON A Charity Seasonal Concert

Wednesday 13th 7.30pm

____________________________

Methodist Church, Cheap St. Festive

ArtsLink Flicks -

Friday 15th 9am-5pm

music, grand raffle and refreshments. In aid

Viceroy’s House (12A)

Auction of Medals, Militaria, Coins,

of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Stamps and Collector’s Items

Tickets - adults £9, children under 14

Memorial Hall, Digby Rd. The final

FREE, available from 01258 821576,

Viceroy of India, Lord Mountbatten, is

tasked with overseeing the transition of

Charterhouse, The Long Street

British India to independence. £6 from

Salerooms. For details: 01935 812277 charterhouse-auction.com

Winstone’s Bookshop or on the door.

____________________________ Sunday 10th 5pm Christingle Service

Sherborne TIC. Pre-film supper £12 sherborneartslink.org.uk

____________________________

____________________________ Friday 15th Free Facial Friday

Sherborne Abbey

The Sherborne Rooms, Cheap Street. 30

Monday 11th 9.30am-3.30pm

mini facial using Neal’s Yard Remedies.

minute slots with skin consultation and

____________________________

Booking essential 07545 328447

West Country Embroiderers Sherborne & District

____________________________

Digby Hall, Hound Street. Meetings

Saturday 16th

with optional workshops, £15 booked in

advance on 2nd Monday of each month,

12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm Shoppers’ Carols

new members welcomed. Details Ann

Wednesday 13th 7.30pm

01963 34696

Yeovil Cinematheque -

____________________________

After The Storm

Monday 11th 7.30pm

Yeovil College. A blend of comedy

The Abbey’s Gift to the Town Concert Sherborne Abbey. Christmas concert for all to attend.

____________________________

Sherborne Abbey

and drama from Director Kore-eda

(Our Little Sister). One film Guest Membership £5.00 01935 421905 cinematheque.org.uk

____________________________

Tuesday 12th 8pm

Thursday 14th 2.30pm

Sherborne Historical Society -

Sherborne District Gardeners’

Saturday 16th 6pm-10pm

Claret: The History of the English

Assoc. Meeting - Nectar Plants -

Other Side with DESIGN

Love Affair with Bordeaux Wine

Veg, Fruits & Herbs

Digby Hall, Hound Street. Talk by

Digby Hall, Hound Street. Talk by

Church Studio, Haydon, nr

wars against France, the import of

____________________________

David Copp on why, despite numerous

Martin Young. 01935 389375

claret to England has never stopped.

Thursday 14th 3pm

sherbornehistoricalsociety.co.uk (Read David

Visiting Steam Train

____________________________

____________________________

SHS members: free. Non-members: £5.

Carol Service for

Copp's monthly wine feature on page 84)

Sherborne Abbey

Thursday 14th 7.30pm Celtic Strings: A Festive Feast of Harp and Guitar Sandford Orcas Village Hall. A blend of

free talks, live performances and

screenings in support of Sherborne Food Bank. Tonight - Live music from DESIGN, handcrafted

spirits, liquers and cocktails from

FORAGER SPIRIT, authentic paella and tapas from VIDA COMIDA + alternative, emotive edibles

fromTHE BAKEMONGER.

Suggested voluntary donation £7.

traditional Irish music, swing jazz and

Saturday 16th 7.30pm,

fresh voice. 01963 220208

Christmas Sing-a-Long

bluegrass, plus festive favourites given a

10 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Sherborne DT9 5JB. A series of

doors open at 7pm

DECEMBER 2017

Children

Please share your recommendations and contacts via facebook.com/Sherborne-Parents or mail@sherborneparents.com

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

Sundays 11am-1pm

Wednesdays 10am-10.45am

Tuesday 19th 9.30am-11.30am

Art Club@Thornford

Aquatots

(children aged 3-5)

No 1 Wheelwright Studios, Thornford

Leweston School Pool. Parents and

Tuesday 19th 1pm-3pm

a passion for art who want to improve

to book. £3.50. 01963 210783 or email

Friday 22nd 9.30am-11.30am

DT9 6QE. Aimed at youngsters with

toddlers, 3 months to 3 years. No need

(children aged 6-10)

office@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

(children aged 6-10)

____________________________

Relax Kids Christmas

All materials provided. £15 for 1 hour

Fridays 9.30-11am

Holiday Workshops

or £30 for 2 hours. Call 07742 888302,

(term-time only)

email alicockrean@gmail.com or visit

Little Preppers

Sherborne Dance Academy, North

alicockrean.co.uk for more info.

____________________________

Sherborne Prep, Acreman Street.

1st Saturday of the month

Welcomes parents (or grandparents!)

with toddlers to come and have some

their drawing and painting. Fun and

informal. 8 years and upwards welcome.

10.30am-12pm Sticky Church Cheap Street Church Hall. FREE group for playgroup and primary school age

creative fun in our Nursery. £2 per session includes snacks and craft

materials. Updates on sherborneprep.org

____________________________

children - making, stories, songs. Contact

Road, DT9 3JN. Three fun and exciting

Christmas-themed workshops for children aged 3-5 and 6-10. Following the AwardWinning Relax Kids 7 step system with additional mindful arts and crafts. £12.

Email holliebarber@live.com or call 07966 068175. (See our interview with Hollie in this month's Folk Tales on page 120)

____________________________

01963 251747 for more details

____________________________

Cheap Street Church. The youth band

Sherborne TIC. Under 2s free.

Sunday 24th

____________________________

Christmas Eve Services

variety of Christmas pieces along with your

Wednesday 20th 10.15am

Sherborne Abbey. 3pm & 5pm ‘Blessing of

served during the interval and there will be

Railway to Sherborne

TIC or sherbornetownband.co.uk

speaker Giles Harvey. New members

Monday 25th

851641 or david@covert-house.net

Sherborne Abbey. 8am Said Holy

Sherborne Abbey

Saturday 23rd 10.30pm

____________________________

Christmas Carols at the Weavers

Eucharist for Christmas Day 11.15am

Sunday 17th 6.30pm &

Weavers Sports & Social Club,

and Sherborne Town Band will perform a favourite carols! Coffees and mince pies

Probus - On Bringing the

a raffle. Tickets available from Sherborne

Slessor Club, Long Street. With guest

____________________________

welcome, for more information 01935

Christmas Day Services

____________________________

Communion BCP. 9.30am Parish

Sunday 17th 3pm Sherborne Abbey Carol Service

Monday 18th 2.30pm & 6.30pm Sherborne Amateur Pantomime Society presents Dick Whittington Digby Hall, Hound Street. Family-

friendly performances. Tickets £8 from

the Crib & Lighting of the Tree’ 11.30pm ‘The First Eucharist of Christmas’

____________________________

Festal Mattins

____________________________

Westbury, DT9 3EL. Sherborne Town

Monday 25th

and Social Club’s annual ‘Mince Pie and

Digby Memorial Church Hall.

so singing is not optional! Always a fun

Why not join us for Christmas Day

Band will perform at the Weavers Sports

Christmas Day Lunch

Carols’ evening. Hymn sheets provided,

Christmas without family or friends?

and festive-filled evening.

Lunch? To book your free place,

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 11

WHAT'S ON please call 07466 963346 or email sctchristmasdaylunch@gmail.com

Planning ahead… ____________________________

Sherborne Rooms, Cheap St.

____________________________

Booking essential 07545 328447

Every third Friday in

____________________________

each month 9am-1pm

Thursdays 2.30pm-4pm

Farmers’ Market

ArtsLink Parkinson’s Dance

Cheap Street

Tinney’s Lane Youth Centre, Sherborne.

Every third Saturday 9.30am-4pm

for those experiencing the symptoms

Church Hall, Digby Road. New, second-

fully trained specialists, are finished

613356 colinbakerbooks@btinternet.com

with movement specifically designed

Monthly Book Fair

of Parkinson’s. These sessions, led by

hand and antiquarian books. 01803

with a cup of tea and social time. Free

Saturday 2nd &

01935 815899. sherborneartslink.org.uk

Sherborne’s Annual

welcome. Find out more from ArtsLink

Sunday 3rd 10am-4pm

____________________________

Crafts for Christmas

Thursday evenings 7.30pm-9.30pm

Memorial Hall, Digby Rd. Unique and

No 1 Wheelwright Studios, Thornford

New Year’s Day Walk From Sherborne Abbey porch

Walk off the seasonal indulgences and

explore Sherborne’s history north of the Abbey with Blue Badge Guide Cindy.

No need to book, just turn up! £5. sherbornewalks.co.uk

DT9 6QE. Tutored art with Ali

Cockrean. Suitable for all abilities,

Digby Hall, next to Library, Hound

email alicockrean@gmail.com or visit

early Christmas presents! These traders

Sherborne Hand-made Craft Fair

places. Please call 07742 888302,

Street. A good chance to get those

alicockrean.co.uk for more info.

____________________________

Rejuvenated Epiphany

Knit & Natter at The Slipped Stitch

Dinner & Dance

The Julian, Cheap St, Sherborne.

____________________________

Workshops and classes

____________________________

£15 (materials included). Limited

Thursday 10am-12pm

TIC Sherborne from December 2017.

westcountrycraftfairs.co.uk

Saturday 9th 10.30am-3.30pm

Saturday 6th January 7pm

with The Drovers. Tickets £12.50 from

or the home. Free entry. 01749 677049

£10 per session (tuition only) or

Every Tuesday &

Sherborne Twinning Association. Music

unusual crafts & gifts for Christmas

including beginners. Pay as you go,

____________________________

Memorial Hall, Digby Rd. Sponsored by

____________________________

with donations welcome. New people

Art Club@Thornford for Adults

Monday 1st January 2pm

____________________________

A fun, supportive and therapeutic class

only sell hand-made goods, made by themselves. 01963 34696

____________________________

To book call 01935 508249, email

info@theslippedstitch.co.uk or online theslippedstitch.co.uk

____________________________

Fairs and markets ____________________________ Thursdays and Saturdays

Saturday 30th 10am-4pm

Pannier Market

PBFA Book Fair

The Parade

Memorial Hall, Digby Rd. Entry £1.

minutes) & 7pm (2 hours)

Thursday mornings 9.00am-11.15am

Party Skin Workshop with

Country Market

sherborne/5638

nutritionist Hayley Frances

Church Hall, Digby Road

____________________________ Wednesday 6th 1.15pm (45

12 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

____________________________

01935 850210 pbfa.org/book-fairs/

____________________________

DECEMBER 2017 Sport

1st IV. Southern Counties South Division.

Saturday 2nd

Fields. pitchero.com/clubs/sherbornerfc

Saturday 16th

Gainsborough Park, The Terrace Playing

Sherborne v Devizes (H)

Saturday 9th

Sherborne v Radstock (H)

From Riley’s Cycles. 20 - 30 miles,

North Dorset v Sherborne (A)

Saturday 23rd

average 12 to 15 mph. Drop bar road

Saturday 16th

Cheddar v Sherborne (A)

bike recommended. Facebook: Digby

Sherborne v

Tuesday 26th

Etape Sherborne Cycling Club or text

Swindon College Old Boys (H)

Sherborne v Wincanton (H)

Mike 07443 490442

____________________________

Saturday 30th

____________________________ Every Sunday 9am Digby Etape Cycling Club Ride

____________________________

Oldland Abbotonians v

Every Tuesday and Thursday

Sherborne (A)

7.30pm–8.30pm

____________________________

Mixed Touch Rugby Sherborne School Floodlit Astroturf,

Ottery Lane. DT9 6EE. Novices very

Sherborne Town FC

sessions free. Visit sherbornetouch.org or

Premier Division. Raleigh Grove, The

FREE listings please email details

Toolstation Western League Premier

5th of each preceding month to

welcome. £2 per session, first four

1st IV. Toolstation Western League

To include your event in our

call Jimmy on 07887 800803

Terrace Playing Fields. sherbornetownfc.com

(in approx 20 words) by the

Division 3pm start

gemma@sherbornetimes.co.uk

____________________________ Sherborne RFC

DAYS OUT & HOLIDAYS with TAYLORS COACH TRAVEL A Selection of our Day Trips for 2018 Tiverton Horse Drawn Barge Saturday 28th April Crab Fest, Salcombe Sunday 6th May Royal Cornwall Show Saturday 9th June Hampton Court Flower Show Sunday 8th July Highclere Castle and Gardens Thursday 26th July Beaulieu, Bucklers Hard

This Month

2018 Day Trips & Excursions

and River Cruise

Tinsel & Turkey -

brochure available soon.

Saturday 11th August

Isle of Wight

To join our mailing list please

Kensington, Diana Exhibition

11th - 15th December

call the office now!

and Afternoon Tea at Harrods

5 Days - £375.00

01935 423177

11th - 12th May 2 Days - £185.00 pp

www.taylorscoachtravel.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 13

PREVIEW In association with

THE WESSEX ARTS AND CULTURE GUIDE

Eeles Pottery (Woodfired ceramics)

Making Dorset: ‘Winter Show’ 7th - 20th December Allsop Gallery, Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NR. 10am - 6pm 01308 424204 bridport-arts.com

Meet the Makers: Friday 8th December, 1-3pm Following the success of the publication Fifty Dorset Makers

this elite pool this exhibition of ceramics, glass, jewellery, print,

Riding House, Dorset Visual Arts bring you a collection of

give another chance to see a wide range of the best of making

and this summer’s two-day pop-up exhibition at Wolfeton

work from the best of Dorset’s designer makers. Dorset Visual Arts - the organisation behind the renowned, biennial Dorset Art Weeks - launched its new venture Making Dorset at the

end of June. The initiative brought together 50 of Dorset’s finest contemporary makers working in a wide range of craft and

other making disciplines. Many of the makers have important

national and international reputations, and drawing again from 14 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

stone, textiles and wood - including spectacular furniture - will in Dorset in one space. The book itself will again be on sale providing an ideal gift. ‘It is a book about individuals that

says what they do matters for our sense of cultural and even

environmental heritage and hopefulness,’ says Professor Simon Olding in the Foreword.

evolver.org.uk

CHURCH STUDIO HAYDON DORSET

DESIGN

“If Morrissey joined the Pixies and started listening to Low”

SATURDAY 16TH DECEMBER 6PM - 10PM

Handcrafted spirits, liquers and cocktails from FORAGER SPIRIT Authentic paella and tapas from VIDA COMIDA Alternative, emotive edibles from THE BAKEMONGER

RORY MACLEAN

Rory will be talking about travel writing and his UK best sellers “Stalin’s Nose” and “Under the Dragon” as well as “Berlin: Imagine a City”, a Washington Post Book of the Year.

SATURDAY 27TH JANUARY 6PM -10PM (talk 7.30PM)

Tastings, dumplings, samosas and bakes from COMINS TEA Handcrafted spirits, liqueurs and cocktails from FORAGER SPIRIT

A series of free talks, lectures, live performances and screenings in support of

Suggested donation £7

ELTON JOHN & MEATLOAF TRIBUTE Friday 15th December

LEGENDS OF ROCK TRIBUTE

Saturday 16th December

JERSEY BOYS TRIBUTE Thursday 21st December

BIG BAND SWING NIGHT Friday 22nd December

Don’t forget to ask about our accommodation offer.

Stay for £85 per room

£45.0s0on r per pe3 course g inc ud in & d isco d in ner

George Albert Hotel Wardon Hill, Evershot, Nr. Dorchester, Dorset DT2 9PW Tel: 01935 483430 www.gahotel.co.uk 16 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

To reserve your table ca ll

01935 483430

For two months each year an For two months eachChapel year anin unassuming Victorian unassuming Victorian Chapel in Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton metamorphoses into a metamorphoses glowing beacon hope for all those whofor all into a of glowing beacon of hope quail at the thethought dreaded those whothought quail atofthe of the Christmas dreaded shopping Christmastrip. shopping trip.

Over 60 local artists, designers Over 60 local and makers, andartists, one ordesigners two from and makers, andhave one work or twofor from further afield, salefurther in this unique pop-up Textile afield, have work gallery. for sale in this artist, Rose Hatcher, started unique pop-up gallery.

Textile artist, ‘Handmade for Christmas’ in 2012, Rose Hatcher, started ‘Handmade asfor ‘a bit of a laugh’ and, although Christmas’ in 2012, as ‘a bit of it is still an indubitably jolly affair, a laugh’ and, although it is still an it has gained a seriously serious indubitably jolly affair, it has gained reputation for the huge diversity a seriously serious for the and the excellence ofreputation the work on huge diversity and thethe excellence of display, not to mention very the work on display, not to mention warmest of welcomes. This year the very warmest of welcomes.

‘Handmade’ will be open every dayThis during November and year ‘Handmade’ willDecember be open every (barring the big day itself) – go day during November and December and take a the lookbig – Iday promise (barring itself)you – go and take won’t regret it! a look – I promise you won’t regret it!

CHRISTMAS WREATH AND TABLE DISPLAY WORKSHOPS Christmas Door Wreaths £40.00 Tuesday 5th December 2pm-6pm & Thursday 7th December 6pm-9.30pm Holbrook House, Wincanton Saturday 9th December 10.30am The Old Milking Parlour, Henstridge Tuesday 12th December 6pm-9.30pm The Grange at Oborne, Sherborne

Floral Advent Wreath £58.00 Saturday 2nd December 10.30am Holbrook House, Wincanton

Christmas Table Displays £55.00

Wednesday 20th December 6pm-9.30pm & Saturday 23rd December 1.30pm-4pm Holbrook House, Wincanton

Price includes refreshments, afternoon tea or light supper and all materials.

Please book through our website

juliamoorefloraldesigns.co.uk or call 07538 072279 @JMFloralDesigns

@floraldesignsjm

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 17

A CREATIVELY CHRISTMASSY CHRISTMAS

J

Elizabeth Evensen, Dorchester Arts

ust as we are getting used to hunkering down in front of the fire and thinking how nice it would be to hibernate, along comes December to wake us from our near-slumber.

Everything about December epitomises what is so lovely about ‘hygge’ and gives us reasons to be joyful. It’s the month to head out with your hands wrapped around a mug of hot chocolate or mulled wine into the frosty air, to appreciate those nearest and dearest to you, and to get up and about and make sure that the deep midwinter is anything but bleak.

Between Sherborne Artslink, Artsreach and Dorchester Arts, there’s a whole host of events to lure you out into the twinkling lights.

Get in the mood for Christmas right from the off at the Digby Hall in Sherborne with a Christmas concert by the Trinity Entertainers on Saturday 2nd December - a perfect way to warm up to the next day’s Festive Shopping Day. The following weekend, get in the party spirit and kick up your heels as Police Dog Hogan come Dorchester Arts at the Dorchester Corn Exchange. Police Dog Hogan are a high-energy and eclectic eight-piece fusing of country, pop, folk and rocking bluegrass.

Fill your weekday evenings with Sherborne ArtsLink’s film showing of Viceroy’s House at the Memorial Hall, followed the next evening by Celtic Strings as they put on A Festive Feast of Harp and Guitar with Artsreach.

The festive baton is handed over to Dorchester Arts on Sunday 17th December as we offer up a festive musical 18 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

treat from one of the UK’s leading contemporary string quartets, the Ligeti Quartet. The highlight of the evening is a wonderful adaptation for strings and narration of A Child’s Christmas in Wales. This story chronicles Dylan Thomas’ own childhood memories and remains one of his most popular and loved works.

Once the Dorset schools have broken up, indulge the wannabe Annas, Elsas, Kristoffs or even Olafs in your life with Dorchester Art’s Frozen Singalong. What is becoming an annual event, Disney’s Frozen will be shown on the big screen once again here at Dorchester’s Corn Exchange. A perfect Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy whatever the weather – but hey…the cold never bothered us anyway…

Just to make sure that you’re well and truly in the Christmas spirit, Dorchester Arts closes its Autumn season with The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmassness! A celebration of everything Christmassy, come along and meet a snowman who lives in the fridge, try to spot some naughty elves, hear the tale of the first Christmas tree, play hunt the Brussel sprout and endure the world’s worst Christmas jumper.

For more information on these or any of the events taking place through Sherborne Artslink, Artsreach or Dorchester Arts this December, visit thier websites or pop into the Tourist Information Centre for more details. dorchesterarts.org.uk

Christmas at the Corn Exchange

Christmas arrives at

Join us at Dorchester Arts during the festive month of December... Merry Christmas!

CREATE A CHRISTMAS LANTERN

Sunday 3 December, 10am-12 noon Town Hall £5 / £3 for siblings Ages 6-10

CLOTHES

JEWELLERY SCARVES

GIFTS

HOME

LIGETI QUARTET - A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS IN WALES Sunday 17 December, 3pm Corn Exchange. £16 / £14 members and concessions /

FROZEN: SING ALONG

Monday 18 December, 2pm Corn Exchange Fundraiser. £4

THE CHRISTMASSY CHRISTMAS SHOW OF CHRISTMASSY CHRISTMASSNESS (SQUASHBOX THEATRE) Wednesday 20 December, 2pm & 4.30pm Family Theatre, Corn Exchange £6 / £20 family ticket

For full event listings, visit our website

Dorchester Arts, The Corn Exchange, High East Street, Dorchester DT1 1HF

01305 266926

dorchesterarts.org.uk

Open Sundays 26th November until Christmas 10am to 4pm

Sherborne O1935 814O27 Dorchester O13O5 265223

www.melburygallery.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 19

PROUD TO BE STOCKING LOEWE TV’S CALL IN FOR A DEMONSTRATION As a well established TV and radio shop, Godden & Curtis have been offering a wide range of audio visual sales and repair services for over 47 years.

Established in 1968 as a radio and black and white TV shop in Newland, we moved our business to our current premises on Greenhill in 1972. We have continued to deliver the high standard of service and great prices that our business was built on.

Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EW Tel: 01935 813451

www.goddenandcurtis.co.uk

Wild Gifts

100% of profits from DWT’s online shop go back into conservation work in Dorset. Enjoy browsing a variety of gifts for Christmas: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/shop 20 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

DORSET WILDLIFE TRUST

Where Christmas comes to life.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY SALISBURY BID

Shopping Guide

Brand new baubles, 70p each, St Margaret’s Hospice

Tilnar Art Fairtrade soapstone nativity, £24.00, The Village Shop, Charlton Horethorne Hand-carved in Kiisi, Kenya.

Brand new ‘We wish you a merry Christmas’ LED sign, £9.99, Sue Ryder

Brand new purse, available in various colours £6.49, St Margaret’s Hospice

Brand new classic games, £3.99, Sue Ryder

CHARITABLE FESTIVE FINDS Jenny Dickinson, Dear To Me Studio

From quirky decorations and stocking-fillers to cosy knits and killer outfits you can shop consciously this Christmas. In this season of goodwill we take the time to celebrate the shops and products supporting charities.

Whether you give your time, hard earned cash, pre-loved donations or fill your shopping bags with their endless supply of treasures, let’s show the wonderful charity shops of Sherborne some love. I’m sure popping a mince pie in for the tireless volunteers would also bring some Christmas cheer! deartomestudio.com 22 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Organic Soap, £2.95 each, The Village Shop, Charlton Horethorne Providing permanent employment for blind and disabled people.

Pre-loved leather shoes, £10.00, Tenovus

Children’s knitwear, £1.50 each, British Red Cross

Vintage men’s tweed jacket, £6, St Margaret’s Hospice

Tilnar Art Fairtrade seedpod birds, £5.99 each, The Village Shop, Charlton Horethorne These are handmade in Zimbabwe by Raina Mazwiembiri and her family who travel seven hours in order to pick the seeds to create these unique characterful birds.

Pre-loved Ghost dress, £8.99, British Red Cross

Vintage leather handbag, £8.99, British Red Cross sherbornetimes.co.uk | 23

Warehouse Shop Open This Christmas 9am to 5pm, Mon-Sat Ample Free Parking

Find Us At...

Unit A2 South Western Business Park Sherborne, DT9 3PS

Visit Us...

Browse and order from our outstanding selection of fun and unique gifts.

Click & Collect...

Order online at www.ThePresentFinder.co.uk & collect from our warehouse.

(Through Station Car Park)

Vintage Furniture & Decorative Accessories 243, Westbury, Sherborne, DT9 3EJ 01935 814213 / 07854 383090 WED - SAT 10am - 5pm 24 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

A R T I C H O K E

Shooting & Countryside Christmas Gifts In-store and Online

Visit Our Showroom Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm Seasonal Sundays - 3|10|17 Dec 10am-1pm www.country-catalogue.co.uk Manor Farm, Pulham, Dorset DT2 7EE T:01258 817666

Look for the white sign

BATH & BEAUTY TOYS & GAMES FASHION & INTERIORS STATIONERY & BOOKS

CHINTI AND PARKER WILDFOX CRIME LONDON DUFFY 360 CASHMERE VELVET COCOA SKULL CASHMERE PENELOPE CHILVERS ASH BELLA FREUD MIH SUNDRY

OPEN 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM, 33 CHEAP STREET, SHERBORNE DT9 3PU PHONE 01935 816551

Wild Dorset

26 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

THE HOLLY AND THE IVY Melanie Fermor, Dorset Wildlife Trust Volunteer

Y

ou may have heard it said that of all the trees that are in the wood, the holly bears the crown. But what is it about both the holly and the ivy that is so regal?

We all associate the vibrant red and green colours of the holly tree with Christmas and many of us bring boughs inside our homes or put wreaths on doors at this time of year. The famous carol draws symbolism from both plants to represent the life of Jesus but the tradition of bringing holly into the home at winter festivals is thought to predate Christianity.

If you look out into nature right now you might see some cheerful red berries of the holly tree or the winking sparkle of the ivy’s black berries in little clusters. Both these plants continue to work hard long after many other native species have gone to sleep, exhausted by the growth and vigour of summer, and this is what makes them so important for wildlife.

Both plants, native to Great Britain, are hardy evergreens. Their glossy green foliage provides sturdy shelter and homes for birds and bats which will withstand the winter weather. Hibernating insects such as the brimstone butterfly find homes amongst ivy leaves. Holly leaves provide food for insects such as the holly leaf miner and the holly blue butterfly while the smoother, older leaves are enjoyed by deer in late winter.

The berries of the female holly are prized by native blackbirds and overwintering redwings and fieldfares while the mistle thrush, in particular, possessively defends its holly bush with gusto from any passing thieves! The black berries of the ivy, likewise, provide food for birds and animals, whilst its yellow-green flowers provide nectar for insects such as hornets, honey bees and red admiral butterflies when there are few other flowers to be found.

Both holly and ivy are widespread and may be found anywhere from gardens to forests and heathlands. Native species are important in providing a habitat for resident and visiting wildlife so spare them a thought with some wildlife-friendly gardening. Consider leaving a pile of holly leaves unraked for the blackbirds to forage in and think of the flowers and berries before taking the clippers to that ivy. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

HOLLY AND IVY FACTS • Both holly and ivy are late-flowering and fruiting so are a valuable food source for wildlife.

• Holly can grow up to 15 metres tall and live for up to 300 years!

• Ivy is not a parasite, rather it uses hosts, such as walls and trees, for height and strength.

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 27

Wild Dorset

SHERBORNE DWT Gillian M. Constable, Dorset Wildlife Trust Sherborne Group Committee

Fox © Sam Dodd

G

uy Edwards is one of Dorset’s amazing professional wildlife photographers and this year he has donated all the photographs of Dorset scenes and wildlife for DWT’s 2018 calendar.

The calendar is available from DWT’s website and centres, and some other outlets. Guy lives in Dorset and some years back he gave an inspiring talk to Sherborne DWT group explaining some of his techniques. Have a look at his website to see some of his amazing work.

Also available on DWT’s website are this year’s DWT Christmas cards (pictured), details of how to adopt a Brownsea red squirrel or a Dorset seahorse and many other ideas for Christmas gifts.

The Sherborne Group does not hold a general meeting in December. However the weekend 2nd and 3rd December is Kingcombe Festival Weekend and there are details of many other events on the DWT website. Also to be found are details of Poole Harbour Cruises and Brownsea Landings. We did a harbour cruise last year, on the only day we saw some snowflakes in the county, and had wonderful views of a great northern diver.

During October there was a number of literary festivals locally. We attended a wildlife talk in Dorchester. Dave Goulson, professor of Biological Sciences at Sussex University, spoke about bees and the 28 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

hall was packed. Dave is probably our national expert on bees, particularly bumblebees, and the talk coincided with the publication of his third bee book called Bee Quest. I now have the set of his books and look forward to reading the latest. Dave founded the Bumblebee Conservation Trust in 2006 and he regularly promotes the protection of bees and management of land for their survival. One of his bee stories was that a few years back he oversaw the testing of plants sold with ‘wildlife friendly’ labels in garden centres and supermarkets and it was found that virtually all were already well smothered by insecticides detectable in both nectar and pollen. The publication of this finding has led to a change in policy by most suppliers.

Dave said that bees are difficult to identify; we had already discovered this. Our bumblebee identification book leads us through matching thorax and abdomen details and then we discover our bee photograph leads to one of several possibilities and that one needs details of head shape or something else not recorded. Solitary bees (the majority of bee species) are an even greater problem; some look like flies and some flies look like solitary bees. Dave had a slide of the cover of a book on bees – it depicted a fly looking just like a bee. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

ARE YOUR RETIREMENT PLANS ON COURSE? Contact us for a pension review.

PETER HARDING WEALTH MANAGEMENT Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s PlaceWealth Management

40 High Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JG Tel: 01747 855554 9 Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PU Tel: 01935 315315

www.peterhardingwm.co.uk

The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Peter Harding Wealth Management is a trading name of The Peter Harding Practice Ltd.

Upstairs at Midwest

SEASONAL ROOM Christmas Gifts & Accessories

T: 01935 814225 Cards, wrap, gift boxes, bags, ribbons & tags Festive decorations and Roger la Borde folksy cut-outs Thomas Kent clocks, door stops & Tweedmill throws Box Candle Co. candles - Almond Street picture frames & mirrors Lamy designer pens & gift sets - Leuchtturm1917 journals & diaries Boxed china mugs & festive napkins - Stocking fillers and fun table gifts

Midwest The Stationers |21 Cheap Street | Sherborne DT9 3PU www.midwest-office.co.uk | tweet @mwthestationers

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 31

UNEARTHED ARAMINTA STUBBS, AGED 17 Sherborne Girls

O

ver the summer Araminta, a sixthform student at Sherborne Girls, was invited to join the British Shooting GB Target Sprint squad. She further secured her place as one of four junior girls to be selected for the 24-athlete team, with a silver place at the National Target Sprint Championships in September.

Target Sprint is a 3 x 400m run, in which each 400m running session culminates in a shooting challenge at knockdown targets. Araminta was introduced to the sport at a local trial, organised by the school. She surprised herself by qualifying for the national finals and her passion for the discipline really began.

Following her early success, Araminta went on to take part in the GB trials at Rugeley Rifle Club, where athletes had to complete in 7:32 minutes to be considered for the team. Although one of the youngest in the junior 16-20 category, Araminta succeeded in smashing her round with an incredible time of 7:20.

“I really enjoy the combination of running and shooting – it’s something completely different,” Araminta says. “Although I was already a keen runner, the shooting of knockdown targets added a new element to challenge me.”

British Shooting Target Sprint coordinator Gorgs Geikie says, “We are thrilled to have Araminta as part of the 2017/18 GB Squad.

She is such a fantastic role model for young people out there who wish to give a new sport a go.” targetsprint.com sherborne.com

KATHARINE DAVIES PHOTOGRAPHY Portrait, lifestyle, PR and editorial commissions 07808 400083 info@katharinedaviesphotography.co.uk www.katharinedaviesphotography.co.uk

32 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Scholarships 2018 entry Scholarships available at 11+ and 13+ in Academic Excellence, Music, Sport and Pentathlon.

Drama and Art and Design (13+ only)

Soft Toys, Wooden Toys, Baby and Toddler Bikes Tel: 01460 241800

www.beehivetoyfactory.co.uk

81% A* - B at GCSE 71% A* - C (or pre-U equivalent) at A Level Application deadline: 8th January 2018 A ‘diamond model’ school from 2019 offering the academic advantages of single-sex learning with the all-round benefits of a co-educational school.

For more information contact the Admissions Team: admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk call 01963 211010 www.leweston.co.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 33

Family

ADVENT – THE WAITING GAME Nick Folland, Headmaster Sherborne Prep

I

nstant gratification is fast becoming the normal expectation in the modern world: you can bypass the taxi queue when you are Christmas shopping in London by pinging off a request for an Uber car; companies trade on ever-faster delivery times with “next day delivery” boasts having now been superseded by “same day delivery”; we don’t have to wait for the evening news now, we can read a newsfeed on our mobile phones that updates every few seconds; if we hear a song we like we don’t have to wait for the single or album, we can download the tune straight away onto our mobiles; we can stream movies straight to our laptops; and, there is even a shopping website called “I want it now”! As consumerism threatens to take over in the run up to Christmas I can’t 34 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

help thinking about how all this rather detracts from the real essence of Advent, which is special because it is about the anticipation and enjoyment of the waiting game.

Sometimes the really wonderful things in life are worth the years of perseverance, patience or saving, and are all the more valued because of the effort required to achieve them. After all, half of the excitement and fun of a holiday is the build-up and anticipation of the event.

They are not always tangible prizes but they are precious all the same. Woody Allen famously said that it took him 40 years to become an overnight success.

Instant consumerism is taking over Christmas, and the pleasure of taking time to browse in shops, to really think about a special gift for someone. We should

be making time to really involve our children in the pleasure of giving and planning a present for others, rather than allowing them to focus on what they want for Christmas. It isn’t easy in this consumer world, where, according behavioural consultants Calland and Hutchinson, young people are bombarded, on average, with 40,000 advertisements on TV a year. Children younger than eight are deemed “cognitively defenceless” against advertising, so it is not surprising that children’s TV adverts were banned in Sweden in 1991, or that research has indicated that Swedish children are significantly happier than British children as a result.

‘We are helping to create a generation of youngsters who are blind to the needs of others and the necessity

of hard work. We are giving them a sense of entitlement that won’t serve them well as adults. Also we as parents have to set an example. We too are guilty of wanting everything and wanting it now. We are not very good at waiting either.’ Says Calland.

Perhaps the greatest gift we can give our children this year is time? After all, your children’s happiest memories of Christmas won’t be about the toy they got, but about the fun they had and the games they played. How often do we say that our time is precious? We should remember just how precious it is and give our children the gift of time this Christmas. sherborneprep.org sherbornetimes.co.uk | 35

Profile

DOODLES PLAY CAFE Words Jo Denbury Photograph Katharine Davies

36 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

W

ith five young children between them Ally Baker and Naomi Harvey know a thing or two about keeping the ‘Under Fives’ busy. An appreciation of the challenges and empathy with local parents has inspired these two mums to offer a solution in the way of Doodles Play Café. ‘There was never really a eureka moment,’ says Ally ‘we both knew we wanted to do something and we felt Sherborne lacked a café where the children had space to do their thing while we could drink a good coffee. So we opened our own.’

Local producers including Read’s Coffee, Parsons Butchers, Oxford Bakery and Honeybuns will be among the sources of their cakes, hearty hot food, sandwiches and coffee. There are also brightly coloured mini buckets of healthy veg snacks and fruit for the smaller people although I suspect some of the adults might tuck into those as well.

Naomi, an advocate of a gluten-free and low dairy diet, has ensured these options are available on the Doodles menu. She is a keen charity runner and regularly participates in local 5k events along with the annual Yeovil Hospital ‘Inflate-a-Race’, Before setting up shop here, her days off were spent in Sherborne.

‘It’s so important that we keep the town alive. I love the Festive Shopping Day in December and want to help preserve the tradition and character of the town.’

The children have their very own play area that includes a castle for any budding knights, its very own mini kitchen and a blackboard wall for potential Picassos.

‘We have created a café where it’s possible to meet your friends over good coffee and know that the kids are welcome and entertained’ says Ally. The back of the menus offer canvasses for colouring, which then take pride of place as wall art. Ultimately though – and joy of joys – it doesn’t matter if your child has a melt down. You are in likeminded, sympathetic company without the awkwardness of upsetting a neighbouring table. This modern, homely, colourful cafe is what Sherborne’s parents of young children have been longing for.

And for those in search of a birthday party space for their little knight or princess, Ally and Naomi host after-school parties with full access to the play area and special tea party catering. What could be better?

Doodles Play Cafe, 1 Abbey Road, Sherborne DT9 5LE doodlesplaycafe.co.uk

ie with Holl Creating calm, confident children through a seven step system of mindfulness activities for ages 3 to 16 CLASSES INCLUDE: Movement • Play • Dance • Yoga Self / peer massage • Breathing exercises Positive affirmations • Visualisations Mindful craft activities CLASSES CAN HELP: Manage anxiety • Boost confidence Increase attention span • Improve behaviour Manage emotions • Develop social skills Improve sleep • Develop emotional resilience Encourage creativity / imagination 6 WEEK COURSES • 1 OFF WORKSHOPS FAMILY WORKSHOPS • PRIVATE 1:1 SESSIONS To find out more: Email: holliebarber@live.com • Mobile: 07966 068175 Facebook: Relax Kids with Hollie Instagram: @relaxkidscoachhollie Check out Facebook page for latest updates

TOP TOYS FOR CHRISTMAS From board games to go-karts, Sherborne’s independent toy shop THE TOY BARN has the gifts at the top of every kid’s wishlist

Train Puzzle

by Bertoy £22

Playmobil Take Along Soccer Field £49.99

Speak Out Kids vs Parents £22

Daisy Cottage £49

Razor Cart £399

Sluban Farm £29.49

Blackmarsh Farm, Sherborne DT9 4JX 01935 815040 | toy-barn.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 37

Family

Children’s Book Review

Wayne Winstone, Winstone’s Books, Independent Bookshop of the Year 2016

The Lost Words, by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris (illustrator) £20 Exclusive Sherborne Times reader offer of £19 at Winstone’s Books

“O

nce upon a time, words began to vanish from the language of children. They disappeared so quietly that at first almost no one noticed - until one day, they were gone. But there is an old kind of magic for finding what is missing, and for summoning what has vanished. If the right spells are spoken, the lost words might return…”

From Acorn to Weasel: a gorgeous, handillustrated, large-format spell-book celebrating the magic and wonder of the natural world.

All over the country, there are words disappearing from children’s lives.

Words like Dandelion, Otter, Bramble, Acorn and Lark represent the natural world of childhood, a rich

A colourful world of words awaits...

landscape of discovery and imagination that is fading from children’s minds.

The Lost Words is the living glory of our distinctive, British countryside. With acrostic spell-poems by peerless wordsmith Robert Macfarlane and hand-painted illustrations

by Jackie Morris, this enchanting book captures the irreplaceable magic of language and nature for all ages.

Jackie Morris “This work stands against the disappearance of wild childhood. It is a joyful celebration of nature words and the natural world they invoke.” winstonebooks.co.uk

'Independent Bookseller of the Year 2016’ 8 Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PX www.winstonebooks.co.uk Tel: 01935 816 128

Wide range of scholarships available including 2 major 11+ awards To find out more about us or to arrange a visit call 01935 810911

A SHERBORNE-BASED PUBLISHER

Elementum is a biannual journal of new writing and visual arts that explores the natural world and our place within it.

The latest edition of Elementum includes new writing by Robert Macfarlane, Kathleen Jamie, Jim Crumley and Wyl Menmuir, with illustrations by Jackie Morris and Catherine Hyde.

AVA I L A B L E L O C A L LY O R O N L I N E

WWW.ELEMENTUMJOURNAL.COM sherbornetimes.co.uk | 39

COLOURING PAGE

40 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Art

Autumn is a time I really enjoy. There is plenty of colour developing on the trees with some almost bare due to the strong winds through October and November. Because of the rain we’ve had I’ve done less painting outside but have been drawing, little sketches of things I come across whilst out walking.

I found this shepherd’s hut tucked away under some apple trees.

It wasn’t abandoned but looked like it had been standing there for quite awhile. I sought out the owner and was given permission to enter the land it was on to draw.

They are very popular at the moment and some I’ve seen are a bit ‘twee’. This one however is about 100 years old so I was told and had been used as a keeper’s hut at some stage. I was surrounded by fallen apples, both cookers and eaters and visited by the odd wasp still out and about before the cold weather kicks in.

I did a couple sketches, one of which is shown here. I used cartridge paper and an HB pencil which I find is neither too hard nor too soft, a good all rounder. It is important when drawing to bring out the contrasts between light and shade unless your intention is to make just a line study.

The day started cloudy with a little rain but there was a brighter spell long enough for me to get something down. It was a very pleasant afternoon made more so by being brought a cup of tea and the offer of gathering some apples before leaving.

On the subject of apples there seems to be a glut this year. Wherever you go there are boxes and bags outside of people’s houses and garden gates with little notices begging passers-by to ‘help yourself’ which I have done. It’s such a good subject that I took the opportunity outside one such place to stand and do a quick drawing. This was also done on cartridge paper using an HB pencil. I work quickly which was just as well because as I was sketching someone came along and asked if they could have some! So my subject was reduced a little but not by too many!

I took half a dozen home myself to be stewed with some blackberries from the allotment.

I find myself quite attracted to subjects like this - I have drawn the ‘hedge veg’ boxes on the side of the road too which often contain more than veg. The fact that people trust others enough to put the money in the box and to leave them unattended is nice to see.

Long may they continue to do so, providing us artists good subject matter to work with. laurencebelbin.co.uk

42 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 43

History OBJECT OF THE MONTH

A SEASONAL POSTCARD “UP TO LODGE” (1906) Elisabeth Bletsoe, Curator, Sherborne Museum

“U

p to Lodge” was the cry very early on Christmas morning from numerous boys and girls who were wending their way to Sherborne Castle,” reported the Western Gazette on 31st December 1875. It described a local tradition that has persisted in Sherborne from “time out of mind” to the present day. Children presented themselves at the Castle Lodge at 9am and were each gifted with two new “Christmas pennies”.

The origins of this custom are hard to determine; the Castle Estate records show that gifts were given from 1828-1855 to children and elderly men and women (with a total amount of £5 for distributing to children and £1 1 shilling to the elderly). In 1875 two pence in new-minted coins was given to all who presented themselves and Mr. Pragnell paid the crowd “which numbered several hundreds.” In 1886 there is an estate entry for “pence given to Children and aged Women” so at that at times the custom seemed to be restricted to the very young or very old.

This unused black and white postcard from the Museum’s archives, measuring 86mm x 138mm with a divided back and a half penny post rate, depicts a lively throng on Christmas morning in 1906. The Gazette again commented that year on its observation: “Old people are given four pence each, while children receive two. It is estimated that 1,200 applicants received the bounty.” The tradition was maintained unbroken throughout both World Wars, although during the First World War used pennies had to be given and in 1946, since there was another shortage of new-minted 44 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

pence, half-pennies were substituted. Today, new decimal coins are given out in the Castle Estate Yard inside a commemorative card while children are given foil-wrapped chocolate pennies.

“Up to Lodge” fits into a wider context of moneygiving at Christmas, long established since medieval times. Church collection boxes were opened on St. Stephen’s Day, 26th December, and their contents distributed among the poor of the parish. When this largely ceased after the Reformation, tradesmen used to collect Christmas boxes from satisfied customers and wealthy families would box up the remains of their feast to give to their most loyal servants. Many towns gave out doles to the needy on St. Thomas’s Day, 21st December, and this still survives, for example, at Richmond where specially minted shillings are given by the mayor to local pensioners.

Country house charity in Victorian times was often seen as a feminine responsibility with the landowner’s wife overseeing gifts of money, food and blankets at Christmas. The customary role of “Lady Bountiful” was expected at this time, but sometimes it could also encompass patronising or founding a school, church or almshouse in a more strategic effort to relieve poverty or improve living conditions. These actions, while motivated by Christian charity, were also driven by the need to manage the lower classes; highlighting the generosity of the landowner while maintaining a somewhat feudal social hierarchy. sherbornemuseum.co.uk

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Interiors

Shepherd of Sweden 48 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 14 ARTISTS’ WORK FOR SALE 2nd – 20th December

FESTIVE GLAMOUR Kitty Oakshott, Upstairs Downstairs Interiors

A

s Christmas is just around the corner make way for sparkles and glamour. As the house guests arrive and the get-togethers begin make sure your home is party ready!

You have probably already done the predecoration declutter and are untangling the fairy lights. But why not bring in the glitz and glamour through your home décor this season. Some may say it’s excessive to re-design your home just because it’s Christmas but we say ‘why not!’ And it doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.

Bringing in just a few simple additions can be all you need for that added festive touch; a few sequinned scatter cushions adorning your favourite chairs or some sumptuous velvet bolsters. Warm up your floor space with a sheepskin rug or soft runners in whatever colour compliments.

If you’re after glitz and glamour on a larger scale, give an old chair a new look with a re-upholster in a cut velvet design, or a metallic fabric for the ultimate sumptuous feel. Perhaps use these fabrics to update a headboard in the bedroom or even more scatter cushions! You can never have enough… a mix of fabrics and textures always works best.

A wallpaper with a lustred design doesn’t have to be just a festive feature, it can work all year round. A geometric pattern or soft floral with metallic touches would work brilliantly teamed with natural linens or glamorous satins.

Throw in a luxurious faux fur throw to snuggle up under on those cold winter nights, and light some fun multicoloured candles – perfect for the Christmas table!

With your home party ready, welcome the guests and open the bubbly… updowninteriors.co.uk

Emma Dunbar

Shona Barr

Snowy Sheep

Over the Hills and Far Away

www.jerramgallery.com THE JERRAM GALLERY Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3LN 01935 815261 info@jerramgallery.com Tuesday – Saturday sherbornetimes.co.uk | 49

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Antiques

A MATTER OF TASTE Richard Bromell ASFAV, Charterhouse Auctioneers

E

very week I am asked by executors, solicitors, accountants and other professionals to carry out probate valuations, or inheritance tax valuations.

The purpose of the valuation is to provide the executors of an estate a valuation of the goods and chattels under section 160 of the Inheritance Tax Act. When conducting these valuations it is interesting to see the lifestyles people live and what they have collected over the years.

Rather like flares or frosted tips, we see styles come and go. One year you can be stripping a pine chest of drawers, and the next year painting it again. It is always interesting to see what the beneficiaries, family and friends wish to retain once a grant of probate has been awarded. Then we are asked to send in our chaps and vans to remove everything to our sale-rooms, and clear the property ready for it to be sold or handed back to the letting agent.

Recently I was carrying out a probate valuation. The owner, in my opinion, had spent several years amassing a collection of pictures which I think they had purchased not only because they liked them and had the money to pay for them, but also with a view to “passing them on” down the family line.

However, we all have our own ideas of style and taste.

The pictures were very much of where the market was a few years ago. To me, they were wonderful pictures – I cannot paint or draw and suspect if I could I would love to pursue it as a career, but I know my limitations!

The pictures collected were predominantly Victorian oil paintings depicting life as the artists viewed it at the time and I remember going to exhibitions and museums to look at and study such images. There was huge interest in this market when I started work in the early 1980s. Moving forward to the 21st century and my children have more interest in exhibitions such as the recent Banksy’s Dismaland at Weston-super-Mare.

As a result in the change of interest and style, the 54 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

"my children have more interest in Banksy’s Dismaland at Weston-super-Mare."

Nicolas Condy, a Victorian oil painting, Preparing Dinner £1,000-1,500 Friday 19th January

family have decided not to keep the pictures “in the family” but to auction them in our January picture sale.

It might sound harsh, but is there really any point in hanging on to something you inherit? I know it can tug at your emotional heart-strings, but the decision to sell has not been taken lightly and I think the beneficiaries

will simply re-cycle the money raised from the auction and put it into art which they like – whether or not their children and beneficiaries will like it enough to keep this on their walls in due course will remain to be seen! charterhouse-auction.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 55

CHARTERHOUSE A u c t i o n e e r s & Va l u e r s

William Meadows, Venice, one of a pair £1,500-2,500

We are now accepting entries for our forthcoming auctions: Coins, Medals, Stamps & Collector’s Items Friday 15th December

Classic & Vintage Motorcycles Sunday 4th February

Classic & Vintage Cars Sunday 18th February

Contact Richard Bromell and Naomi Grabham for advice and to arrange a home visit The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne DT9 3BS | 01935 812277 | www.charterhouse-auction.com

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56 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

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58 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Castle Gardens, award-winning garden centre and restaurant Everything you need to enjoy your garden all year round

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We stock a selection of hand tools from Niwaki. These fine Japanese tools are the perfect Christmas gift for the discerning gardener.

We have secateurs, snips, loppers, shears, leather holders and more.

Marston Road, Sherborne , Dorset DT9 4SX or Tel 01935 850848 sherbornetimes.co.uk | 59

Gardening

TOOL UP FOR CHRISTMAS Mike Burks, Managing Director, The Gardens Group

I

t’s that time of year when we can start putting together our Christmas lists to Father Christmas or, for that matter, anyone else who might be interested in reading your wish list. I always remember gathering around the fire with my family as my Dad would read out our lists before dispatching them up the chimney, I don’t ever recall the paper floating back down, but thinking back we were always rushed to bed before their inevitable return. I don’t remember ever being disappointed that whatever was on that list never seemed to materialise, as it meant I always had plenty of socks, so who was I to complain!

If you are including useful tools and gardening gadgets on your wish list then it’s always best to give it some good thought. High on my list would be a decent pair of secateurs and this must be from the Felco range, these are the Rolls Royce of secateurs and if looked after well, they should last for years and years. Although, if you tend to cut wire, use the blade as a screwdriver and generally leave them lying around to be swallowed up by the lawn mower, then maybe these aren’t for you!

These secateurs are fit for any gardener, with both left-handed and right-handed sets available, as well as some with long handles, others with smaller blades, and the top of the range with a rolling handle, reducing the effort needed when pruning. Replacement parts are available including springs and blades and they can also can be sent off for a service to give them a spruce.

This may sound like Trigger’s broom in “Only Fools and Horses” (the one he’d had for years with just four new heads and three replacement handles in that time!) but by keeping them in tip-top condition you’ll achieve easier and better-quality pruning.

Felco also produces a folding pruning saw, which is a fabulous tool, so good in fact that it should come with a warning or even better an alarm if used too much. Just a few inches long, the saw can tackle huge limbs of trees so easily that there is a tendency to just keep going, and an hour later one looks up to find the garden levelled to the ground like some illegal clearing of rain forest!

60 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

It folds away nicely into the pocket and should only be used sparingly and, if kept clean, could probably be used on the turkey on Christmas Day. If losing secateurs is a problem you suffer from, then there are some very useful fluorescent pink and yellow pairs called ‘Florabrite’ made by the excellent Burgon and Ball. These will even glow in the dark!

Wolf also makes some excellent tools and I find their multi-change range is especially useful. Just one handle is needed, onto which different tool heads easily click on and off, depending on what job it’s intended for. However, the swivelling shears please me the most, these are designed for the lawn but can be put to good use trimming soft shrubby material too. Another handy feature are the cutting blades, which can be twisted around to cut horizontally and then used vertically to make trimming grass up a wall easily achievable.

Another favourite is the adjustable metal spring tined rake, which can be adjusted to be at its widest when gathering leaves, whereas if its rigorous scarifying of a lawn, the tines can be adjusted to a much tighter width for extra strength. The rake is lightweight yet tough and will become a constant companion in the garden.

For style there is nothing better than a galvanised watering can, the sort of thing that Mr MacGregor used to have in the Beatrix Potter books, who was a very fine gardener when he wasn’t fretting about Peter Rabbit.

Although they’re inevitably heavier than the modern plastic can, they’re also very robust and this combined with the style element make them worth it.

A final piece of advice if tools are on your Christmas present list this year, is to insist on having stainless steel wherever possible as clay soils, that so many of us have in the garden, just falls straight off a stainless-steel blade, making life a whole lot easier. As a present a spade isn’t the easiest to wrap without giving away the surprise, however, we can do this for you in our gift wrap department. Just don’t tell the team that I suggested it! thegardeneronline.co.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 61

Gardening

THE PLOT HATCHES

Diary of a First Time Flower Farmer Paul Stickland, Black Shed Flowers

A

fter a spectacular season, the Black Shed dahlias have been dug up, divided, labelled and are now resting snug in their winter quarters.

Last year, with relatively few tubers, we divided and stored them in ventilated plastic boxes full of vermiculite in an outhouse behind Winstone’s Bookshop. (Thanks Wayne!) This year we have hundreds more, so we’ve been researching our options. We’re trying a new method of storing them, as recommended by The American Dahlia Society, by wrapping them in clingfilm and storing them somewhere frost free. Sounds unlikely but we’re giving it a go. We’ll be keeping a close eye on them all winter for sure! Hailing from Mexico, dahlias are very cold sensitive but unless you’re in a frost pocket, it’s perfectly safe to leave them in the ground. Cover them with a good mulch or a layer of polythene to protect them from excess winter damp and chill and they’ll be fine. If you leave them in, the tubers eventually get very large and tangled. After five years in the ground, our allotment dahlia tubers were the size of a wheelbarrow. I had to divide them with an axe! They do lose vigour after time though, so it’s better to divide them or take the very easy cuttings which produce amazing flowering plants and good tubers in their first year.

To get sufficient flowers for our customers and clients, we have to grow large numbers of all of our plants, making good propagation skills essential.

We plant very closely, it cuts down on weeding and encourages the plants to grow tall straight flower stems.

At roughly 9”/23cm spacing, a single 8m bed requires around 150 plants, so growing from seed is the best option for us. We simply couldn’t afford to buy in the number of plants that we need.

We grow our seedlings in small 15mm soil blocks created out of a wet mix of compost using an ingenious

62 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

device called a soil blocker. They look like little chocolate brownies! 40 of these little blocks fit perfectly in a small plastic freezer container. Covered with a thin layer of vermiculite and with the lid on to prevent them from drying out, the seeds germinate really well. Taking the lids off, it’s easy to keep an eye on their needs. As the seedling’s roots reach the edge of the blocks, they ‘air prune’ themselves, creating many small fibrous roots within the soil block. They then transplant really well with very little root disturbance when we plant them outside, or bump them up into a larger 2”/50mm size soil block, created with a bigger soil blocker with a perfect indentation to pop in the seedling in it’s smaller soil block. 40 of these cubes fit into a readily available, reusable mushroom tray. These are brought on in cloches or low tunnels. It’s a brilliant system which the plants love and which saves us buying thousands of individual plastic plant pots or trays.

Last year we grew 5000 seedlings in this way in my studio, which changed function from a room where I paint and illustrate children’s books, to a room full of high tech lights, heat mats and germinating seeds. This year a friend kindly salvaged an 8m polytunnel for us and it’s been a game changer, we just love it! It’s a lovely warm space to work on a windy, cold and rainy day, the sight and smell of all those young plants, shoots and sprouts always holds such promise. Tabitha loves poking about in there after school, seeing how her seedlings are growing and happily fiddling about. Helen and Murphy the lurcher love it too, as does Pete and Amanda’s splendid ginger cat, Leo. We just need a comfy sofa and a kettle in there... blackshedflowers.blogspot.co.uk instagram.com/paulstickland_

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 63

IT'S TIME

64 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

02.01.18

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 65

LESLEY WATERS Words Jo Denbury Photography Katharine Davies

L

esley Waters has a familiar face, especially when she is in her whites. Many will recognise her from her years on television as the chef on Ready, Steady, Cook and regular appearances on ITV’s Good Morning. In real life Lesley is as down to earth as they come.

‘People don’t believe in their food,’ she says, ‘they think that the more complicated it is the better it is but, in reality, food is about truth.’ Which is why she is so happy to be living in Halstock with access to the best local produce that Dorset and Somerset can provide. >

66 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 67

68 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

There is nothing Lesley likes more than a Sunday roast, so when it comes to Christmas, dinner at the Waters' is a traditional affair. ‘We always order a turkey from a friend in Evershot,’ she says, ‘then I do a baked ham with apples and cider. I also make instant Christmas puddings that are much lighter, gluten-free and without any suet. There is always a chocolate pudding and also a nut roast for my daughter who is vegetarian, although we all love it.’

Married, with a son and a daughter, Lesley has family and friends coming for the festive occasion. ‘This year,’ she says, ‘old friends are coming with their kids so there will be lots of “naughty food” but we’ll start the day with a breakfast of Eggs Benedict with my ‘cheats’ hollandaise sauce. It’s a classic breakfast that keeps us going until about 5pm which is when we have the turkey. We don’t have pudding until much later in the evening and then we always finish up with a cheeseboard at about 1am.’

Lesley admits that the family are ‘movie nuts’ so the day wouldn’t be complete without watching Mr Smith Goes to Washington or You Can’t Take me with You and, of course, Frank Capra’s A Wonderful Life.

Her farmhouse, built from local stone and clad in blackened wood, couldn’t be a more idyllic setting for Christmas. It overlooks rolling hills, snaking lanes, trees and sheep. It’s a perfect backdrop for her cookery school where she runs daytime courses as well as catering for weddings and celebrations. However, at this time of year a little preparation is going into making homemade goodies for friends and family.

There is a simple chutney of pears, tamarind, red onion and beer simmering in a pan. The vapour fills the kitchen. ‘What I like best about this chutney is that it is instant,’ she says. ‘Pop it in a Kilner jar and it would make a perfect present for friends, ideal as an accompaniment to cold cuts or cheese or even on toast on Boxing Day.’ Lesley also makes her own mincemeat.

‘As a family we don’t like lard or suet, so this isn’t a long-lasting mincemeat and we keep it in the fridge.’

The heady mix of brandy (or local Liberty Field’s apple liquor), sour cherries, brown sugar, grated lemon zest, cranberries, raisins, apricots, grated Bramley apple, pistachio and almond nuts, is filling the kitchen. ‘Again, it makes the perfect present for friends on Christmas Eve,’ she adds, ‘a treat that can be turned into tasty pies.’

Next up on the present list is Posh Fruit & Nut something that kids love to make and is very simple.

Lesley slowly melts dark chocolate and spreads it over baking parchment. Then she does the same with milk > sherbornetimes.co.uk | 69

70 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 71

72 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

chocolate and drips this over the cooling dark chocolate.

A light sprinkle of nuts, cherries and cranberries followed by a cooling line of melted white chocolate or marshmallows and it is left to set before being broken up and wrapped in tiny bags with bows.

The ease with which Lesley goes about her craft is no great surprise. Despite having lived in Dorset for over 16 years her roots go back to London. ‘I think my interest in food began when my Uncle’s boyfriend, a chef, came at Christmas. He brought all this amazing stuff to eat and it introduced me to the idea of being a chef.’ She studied French Cuisine at Ealing College and won a working scholarship to the Intercontinental in Dusseldorf. She then went on to work for Prue Leith where she rose to senior chef. ‘Prue was very into British food in the ‘80s AND a woman, which then was quite rare for a chef. It was a very happy time and one of the best things I did.’

In fact, it was Prue who said, ‘Never garnish with anything that isn’t relevant to the dish,’ which is

something that Lesley has carried with her throughout her career. ‘Being a chef is not about pretention, it is about food that you can cook, that you want to eat and is accessible. I don’t want to eat spun sugar or a foam.

I don’t want anything that has cr**p on it,’ she adds.

Lesley is grateful for her time in Dorset. ‘You don’t really understand the seasons until you have immersed yourself in the countryside. People love coming to my cookery school here because they love getting away.

As one of my getaways, I like visiting Sherborne - it has fantastic bric-a-brac shops and Chapter House Books is one of my favourite places. In my dreams I would open a bookstore for cooks in Sherborne.’ She smiles, lifting the spoon to taste the homemade chutney that she is simmering. Clearly her friends are in for a treat this Christmas and, without doubt, Lesley is here to stay.

The recipes featured in this article are available online at lesleywaters.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 73

74 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Open to all for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week Bar open 11am - 11pm Long Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3BY T: 01935 813131 E: relax@theeastbury.co.uk W: theeastburyhotel.co.uk

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Available to buy from the Farmhouse Saturday & Sunday, 10am - 2pm

Shillingstone DT11 0QY 01258 860284 www.beremarshfarm.co.uk

COFFEE BREAK Kafe Fontana 82 Cheap Street, Sherborne, DT9 3BJ @kafefontana kafefontana 01935 812180 kafefontana.co.uk

Old School Gallery Boyle’s Old School, High Street, Yetminster, DT9 6LF @yetminstergalle 01935 872761 yetminstergallery.co.uk

Oliver’s Coffee House 19 Cheap Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PU @OliversSherbs Olivers-Coffee-House 01935 815005 oliverscoffeehouse.co.uk

The Three Wishes 78 Cheap Street, Sherborne, DT9 3BJ 01935 817777 thethreewishes.co.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 75

Food & Drink

THE CAKE WHISPERER Val Stones

CHRISTMAS PUDDING

W

hen I was very young – sixteen going on seventeen – I had only tasted bought Christmas puddings. I never realised how they should really taste until I tasted Val's, my husband’s mum’s pudding (yes we share the same name). Val Stones senior used the recipe that her own mother had used and it was a family tradition to make 76 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

them each November. The recipe was passed to me from memory and over the years I've added to it here and there.

When the kitchen is heavy with scent of spice from steaming puddings I know it’s time to start writing my Christmas cards (in between checking the steamer water levels to make the pans don’t boil dry)!

Image: Katharine Davies

T

his recipe will make one large 2lb pudding or two smaller 1lb puddings. Start a day or two before steaming.

Ingredients

225g plain flour 225g bread crumbs (I use day old bread and blitz it in a blender but you can grate it, don’t worry about lumps as, in the soaking and stirring, they will disappear) 225g soft dark brown sugar 225g suet (if you are vegetarian you may wish to add a vegetarian suet) 3 eggs, lightly beaten 120g currants 340g sultanas 25g finely chopped peel (I’m not fond of peel so you can leave this out and put in extra grated zest) 1 large grated carrot 1 large grated Bramley apple 1/4 - 1/2 freshly grated nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1 large unwaxed lemon grated zest and juice 1 large unwaxed orange grated zest and juice 75ml barley wine (left over from previous recipe) 75ml stout 4 tablespoons dark rum or brandy or a mixture of both Method

1 Prepare the breadcrumbs and place in a large bowl.

2 Grate the carrot and apple and add to the bowl.

3 Grate the orange and lemon and squeeze the juice from both into the bowl.

4 Add all the remaining dry ingredients and spices.

5 Stir in the lightly beaten eggs, stout, barley wine, brandy and rum.

6 At this point, if the mixture feels a little dry add a little more barley wine. You can never have too much alcohol.

The alcohol evaporates off but leaves all the flavours.

7 Cover with a clean tea towel and leave in a cool place to soak overnight. I like to leave mine over two nights and whenever I pass the bowl in the kitchen I give it a stir (and a wish) so that I make sure the fruit soaks up as much of the liquids as possible.

8 At this point I ask my husband and anyone visiting the house to have a stir of the pud too and make a wish, it is a nice family thing to do. I always make a mixture up for when my grandchildren visit in December for them to help me and then they have made their own pudding.

9 Next day or the day after prepare your pudding bowl by greasing the bowl with a little melted butter and placing a round of grease-proof paper in the bottom of the bowl. I use the waxed 2lb circles I buy to cover my jams, which works well.

10 Pack the bowl lightly with the mixture and smooth off the top.

11 Cover the bowl with a double layer of grease-proof paper and a sheet of foil and tie securely with string.

I can tie puds on my own now but if you find it too fiddly, ask someone to lend a hand.

12 Place in a steamer set over a pan of simmering water and steam the pudding for 7-8 hours depending on how dark you like your pudding.

13 Lift the pudding out of the steamer and place on a cooling rack.

14 When completely cold, uncover and recover with a double layer of new grease-proof paper. Store in a cool place until needed.

15 To reheat, steam for one hour.

16 I serve my puddings with rum sauce (recipe on my website).

Tips

Place the used lemon from the pudding-making in the pan of water and it will help to stop the pan from marking, alternatively add a few teaspoons of lemon juice.

If you don’t have a steamer then place 3 upturned teaspoons in a large pan and stand your pudding bowl on top of the spoons, add water to go 1/2 way up the bowl and simmer as before.

Keep checking the water levels, as you don’t want the pan to boil dry. A good tip is to set the cooker timer every hour and it will remind you to check the water levels. Also boil a kettle and when you need to add water it will be boiling and not slow down the steaming.

I’m not one for keeping them for months in the freezer, so these can be made just a couple of weeks before the big day. They should be eaten when the fruits are still plump and juicy. Also I think you can have too much of a good thing so it’s best to enjoy them over the Christmas period and then spend the rest of the year looking forward to them again.

Wishing you health, happiness and contentment in the coming year.

Val will be back on our TV screens this Christmas Day for Channel 4’s Bake Off 2017 Christmas special. bakerval.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 77

Food & Drink

WARE THERE'S A WILL

O

Michelle and Rob Comins, Comins Teahouse

ver the past few months we have focussed heavily on “tea” itself. This month we want to explore our relationship with tea from a different angle - preparation. For many of us in the West tea-time has at some point meant a nice bone China teapot and taking the posh cups out of the cupboard. On a more day-today basis, it is probably more like a couple of tea bags in a pot or in a mug - a ‘quick cuppa’ before we get on with the other tasks of the day. But our relationship with tea is changing. As many of us seek a slower pace of life or a period in the day longer than a minute to just ‘be’, we are starting to see that tea has much to offer us. At the heart of a new relationship with tea is a greater understanding of its properties and how to get the most from the leaves we buy. This understanding is educating us in simple facts that make a big difference to our daily tea routine such as - it takes 3 minutes to brew Darjeeling properly, many teas can be brewed and enjoyed multiple times...quite simply, great tea cannot be rushed and so, it slows us down.

With this new understanding of tea comes new ways to enjoy it. Anyone who has been to our teahouses will have seen the vast array of teaware we use - it is not just for show - different teas have different preparation methods and suit different types of teaware. Last year in China, we had the chance to visit two important centres for teaware production in China: Jingdezhen and Yixing. Here craftsmanship and artistry are revered, demonstrating that buying great tea is just one ingredient in the tea experience.

This article serves as an introduction to these two areas and the accompanying pictures show some of the beautiful works associated with them. We hope that these may inspire you to start a new journey with tea - one where we see beyond tea as a drink and celebrate it as an experience.

One where teaware is just as important as the tea.

Yixing is the capital of pottery and more specifically Dingshan town where the streets are lined with individual pottery shops selling thousands of Yixing teapots. Yixing teapots are made using a very special unglazed clay material called ‘Zisha clay’ - this clay has many characteristics which makes it one of the best materials in the world from which to make a teapot. When the clay is properly refined it produces a type of pottery that is highly absorbent. There is a legend that once you have used a Yixing teapot many 78 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

times you can reach a point where adding boiling water alone you can make tea because the pot holds enough of the tea flavour. Across the town we saw artisans and craftspeople working in their shops - often multigenerational. The shelves held an array of colours - Yixing clay occurs naturally in four characteristic colours - most common is purple but there is also light buff, cinnamon and green.

Other colours are created by mixing the clay.

Jingdezhen is a town located in Jiangxi province, South-East China. Pottery has been produced here for 1,700 years, giving it the affectionate name “Porcelain Capital”. To this day it is still the largest centre for Chinese porcelain. From the Ming period onwards, official kilns in Jingdezhen were controlled by the emperor, making imperial porcelain in large quantities for the court and the emperor to give as gifts. Its location, in a remote and hilly region, is close to the best quality deposits of petuntse (porcelain stone) in all of China. It is surrounded by pine forests to feed the kilns and also has a river system flowing both north and south, providing easy trade of its fragile wares.

Up until the 20th century, Chinese craftsmen were still considered to be producing the finest ceramics in the world. After the Xinhai Revolution of 1911, porcelain was no longer manufactured for the imperial household.

By the 1930s, the buildings that had housed the imperial supervisors were taken over as army barracks and the Chinese potters hit hard times as the country focussed on industrial expansion, the demand for their skills fell away. However times have been changing. A dynamic tea culture exists in China and the Jingdezhen I visited in 2017 is now a vibrant and exciting ceramic centre.

Visiting the night market, Taoxichuan, a contemporary building on the site of an old ceramic plant, we saw hundreds of small stalls set up with people selling their works. Among these were many young people who told us that young designers come here to study pottery and learn the techniques honed over generations. It was inspiring to see this creative and ancient industry being adopted as a credible and exciting career path for so many young people. cominstea.com

Images: Howard Boyer sherbornetimes.co.uk | 79

Christmas Day 2017 Let someone else do the shopping, prep, cooking and ALL the washing up

Glass of Bucks Fizz on Arrival (plus Alka Seltzer for fragile adults), Party Poppers and Hats, Balloon Artist, Live Music, Father Christmas (with a gift for all children)

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Farming the same land for 300 years

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Linley Farm, Charlton Musgrove, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 8HD info@kimbersfarmshop.co.uk 80 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Telephone: 01963 33177 kimbersfarmshop.co.uk

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Four course supper and a wee dram tae toast the haggis. £35.00 per person. 28th January 2018,

Food Serving Times Mon - Fri 12-3pm, 6-9.30pm. Saturday 12-9.30pm. Sunday 12-8pm The Queens Arms, Corton Denham, Sherborne DT9 4LR @QueensArmsPub T 01963 220 317 E relax@thequeensarms.com @TheQueensArmsPub www.thequeensarms.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 81

Food & Drink

ORANGE & BEETROOT CURED LOCH TROUT Sasha Matkevich, Head Chef and Owner, The Green with Jack Smith, Apprentice Chef

This one is becoming a bit of a Boxing Day tradition in our family. It’s great served with home grown horseradish crème fraîche, mustard leaves and pickled artichoke salad. Serves 10 Ingredients

1kg organically farmed trout fillet (pin-boned & scaled but skin left on) 500g raw beetroot (peeled and grated) 2 oranges (zested) 80ml dark rum 30g juniper berries (crushed) 30g white peppercorns (crushed) 240g demerara sugar 240g Cornish sea salt 40g Dijon mustard 100g fresh dill (chopped)

Method

1 Mix sugar, salt, black pepper, juniper, rum, orange zest and beetroot together to make marinade.

2 Put quarter of the mixture in a non-corrosive container just big enough to accommodate the fillet.

3 Lay trout, skin-side down and spread rest of marinade on top.

4 Cover the fish directly with piece of cling film and then clingfilm over the top of the container. Store in a fridge for 48 hours.

5 Scrape off the marinade and discard. Wipe the fish dry with kitchen paper.

6 Using pastry brush, spread mustard on top of the fish and sprinkle evenly with freshly chopped dill.

Bon appetit!

P.S. In the fridge and well-wrapped, it will keep for a good week. greenrestaurant.co.uk

82 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

SLOW-ROASTED LEG OF KID GOAT Fiona Gerardin, Bere Marsh Farm

I love my meat cooked low and slow! I am blessed with a lovely Aga in my kitchen but this recipe can be cooked in an electric or gas oven just as easily and possibly better as, with a glass door, peeking is possible.

This recipe can be used for either the leg or shoulder and will give a meltingly delicious aromatic meat. Serve with a chickpea and tomato stew and couscous, or roast potatoes with plenty of garlic.

Ingredients

Leg or shoulder of kid goat meat, grass-fed if possible 2/3 peeled garlic cloves, sliced into 4 pieces 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp harissa 1 tsp coriander ½ tsp cumin ¼ tsp caraway 1 tsp ras-el-hanout spice ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper

Method

1 Heat oven to 200C. Put all the spices, salt and pepper in a bowl with the olive oil and mix well. Place the meat in the oven dish and make incisions all over the meat. Put a slice of garlic in each hole and push in well. Rub the marinade into the meat and put into the oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, turn the oven down to 150 C, pour an inch of water into the pan and cover with foil. Leave for 4 hours, topping up the water occasionally.

2 Turn the oven back up to 200C for the final 15 minutes to crisp up the top.

3 Take out of the oven and pull the meat apart with two forks, returning the pulled meat to the pan and mix into the juices.

4 Serve! beremarshfarm.co.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 83

Food & Drink

AUSTRALIA: PART 2 David Copp

B

y the time you read this, the second cricket test match in the current ashes series against Australia will be under way in Adelaide, South Australia.

I love Adelaide, once known as the twenty minute city because you could walk across it in that time.

Planned in the Greek style except for the State cricket ground at its heart with a statue of The Don, Sir Donald Bradman, to welcome you at its main entrance.

Bradman was a prolific run scorer - his first three Test innings at Adelaide yielded scores of 117, 233 and 357 - and South Australia has become a prolific winemaker. It accounts for half of Australia’s total wine production which includes a diverse range of wines from delicate rieslings to full bodied shiraz reds.

84 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

The Mediterranean climate is ideal for producing a wide range of grape varieties in a wide range of locations such as Adelaide Hills (sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir), Clare and Eden Valleys (riesling, shiraz), Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Coonawarra (shiraz and cabernet sauvignon).

In 1836 the new free colony of South Australia, committed to civil liberty and religious tolerance, attracted European settlers from Britain and Northern Europe. The Bavarian Johann Gramp established a winery at Jacob’s Creek, and many Lutherans also settled in the Barossa Valley where German bakers and butchers shops are still active today. The incomer’s hard work in developing the agriculture of the region has paid handsome dividends for

vintners: Barossa produces Australia’s most iconic wines, Penfolds Grange, and Henschke’s Hill of Grace and Jacobs Creek, its biggest selling wine.

Other newcomers to the Barossa included the brewer Samuel Smith from Wareham in Dorset whose descendants renamed the expanding company Yalumba (meaning ‘all the land around’), the oldest family business still in existence. Its wines are well distributed in the UK. Yet another adventurer was Devon farmer’s son Thomas Hardy who established what was to become for a while the largest wine company in the world. John Reynell gave young Hardy a start in McLaren Vale and he grasped the opportunity with both hands.

Meanwhile further south, the Riddoch brothers from Turriff in Aberdeenshire started by becoming flock masters of merino sheep before ending up as fruit farmers around Coonawarra. They discovered iron-rich soils over limestone bed rock which proved ideal for growing shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. Their vineyards are now owned by Wynn’s whose cabernet sauvignon and shiraz wines are considered classics.

From New South Wales and South Australia, winemaking spread to Victoria, Tasmania and more recently to Western Australia. There are now some 2,300 Australian vintners so I was very pleased to meet Patrick Haddock, a British immigrant who has established a successful wine bar in Australia and become a recognised wine writer and international wine competition judge.

Patrick confirmed the Australian Wine Board’s determination to develop its premium regional wines. Its real strengths are in chardonnay and shiraz but I promise you there are lots of other treasures including European varieties such as tempranillo, sangiovese, and fiano, a white variety from Campania in Italy, which have taken to Australian soils. Old Bush Vine Grenache is also worth seeking out.

Patrick’s wine-judging activity allows him to taste the very best. He was ecstatic about the Western Australian chardonnays he had recently been judging.

Twenty five years ago Australian chardonnay was often referred to as Dolly Parton wine – big and blousy.

Not any longer. The best Australian Chardonnays from Margaret River, Victoria’s Yarra Valley and Tasmania are lean, elegant and very sophisticated wines that compete with the very best of Burgundy. Some of the top end Australian Chardonnays are as expensive as the best Burgundies and worth it. However, there are excellent chardonnays in the £10-20 price range. I can highly commend Eileen Hardy (a blend of Yarra Valley and Tasmanian grapes) or De Bortoli Estate (Oz wines) with the Christmas turkey.

If you are a red wine drinker Patrick's tip is the cool climate, lighter-style Shiraz such as that produced

by Mount Langi for the Wine Society’s Exhibition range at £16. Other red alternatives that pair well with turkey are classy gamay’s from Beaujolais such as Fleurie, soft, fruity, pinot noirs from Romania, Hungary or Languedoc, or old vine zinfandel from California.

Turkey is a low fat meat so it is best to avoid wines with high tannin content such as younger, bolder cabernets or malbec. Whatever you choose, I wish you a very merry Christmas. sherbornetimes.co.uk | 85

Animal Care

AFTER DARK

Mark Newton-Clarke, MA VetMB PhD MRCVS, Newton Clarke Veterinary Surgeons

86 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

T

racey and I are back safely from our Oriental travels, having walked along part of the wilder stretch of the Great Wall near Beijing, raising money and awareness for the Carers UK charity. The experience was a little surreal as the village where we stayed seemed deserted, the air quality was excellent and the woods around the wall were very similar to ours here in Dorset. We felt quite at home but reality quickly returned when negotiating the sheer drops on the ruined parts of the Wall. We were accompanied by our English guide, William Lindesay and his young black Labrador, Hadrian, giving me a few anxious moments as dogs and drops are a dangerous combination. Back in the city, one of the many things I liked about Beijing was the way animals were treated; many people owned dogs and they were all a bit fat and very happy. Quite a contrast to countries in Eastern Europe and Africa where so many starving strays forage for scraps. Our group has raised over £60,000 for Carers UK and hopefully the profile of the charity has benefited as well. So thank you once again for all the donations that have been made.

Back in the UK, the dark days and long nights have begun and so many of you will be walking dogs by torchlight. Reflective collars and vests are really useful to keep track of dogs off the lead and some have flashing LEDs built in. Probably best to stick to familiar routes in the dark as if you do get separated, at least you both know the way home. Cats all want to be out in the dark but they get dazzled by car headlights so badly that it disorientates them, making them vulnerable to collisions.

They always come off worse.

With the dark comes the chance of fireworks, obviously more likely around 5th November and Christmas/New Year but can happen any time. In the countryside, the pheasant season gets underway in earnest in November and December and so expect volleys of gunshots on many Saturdays. If you are planning a walk and you have a pet who is noise-phobic, try to check on any shoots in the area and avoid them.

Fireworks or shotguns, some dogs are so petrified they can just run off in a blind panic. At home, make a shelter with duvets or blankets over a table or cage, play loud music and of course, close windows and curtains. There are a number of natural and prescription medicines that can help stress in dogs so do call your surgery if you require some advice.

We will all be spending more time indoors in the coming months and that has repercussions on skin condition in cats and dogs. Allergies from house dust mite and fungal spores get worse in winter and any flea larvae left over from the autumn are activated by the central heating. You can’t do much about the former but it’s worth making sure your flea prevention is up to date with a good quality product. We all have our favourites and there are spot-ons, tablets and collars to choose from. Again, if you need advice, just give us a call.

May we all at Swan House wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year 2018. newtonclarkevet.com

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 87

Pet, Equine & Farm Animals

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www.newtonclarkevet.com 88 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

www.sherbornetimes.co.uk

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Cycling

EASY DOES IT

Peter Henshaw, Dorset Cyclists Network Mike Riley, Riley’s Cycles

I

’ve always been a bit sniffy about exercise bikes.

Sure, you’re getting exercise, but pedalling to nowhere in an artificially-lit gym seems to me a bit like popping a protein pill instead of having a plate of fish and chips. It might do the job, but you miss all those sensory pleasures that real cycling brings – the sounds, the smells, the wind in the hair and everchanging landscape.

Mind you, I’ve since had cause to modify that view, at least a bit, because an exercise bike has helped me get back to proper cycling. And that in turn has proven the recuperative benefits of pedal power in general.

Back in June I was knocked off my motorcycle by the proverbial white van, and suffered a serious leg injury which needed a big skin graft. Give it six months, I was told, and you’ll be back to normal, but back home after three weeks in hospital it was clear that cycling was a long way off, because I could barely bend my left leg. The physio team at the Yeatman were marvellous – gave me all the right exercises to do (and pointed out that they only work if you do them every day), which gradually saw the leg begin to bend. Eventually, I could walk, with the help of walking poles, but still couldn’t cycle.

Then a friend (thank you, George) lent me an exercise bike. We set it up so that I could look out of the window and I climbed aboard. At first, full pedal strokes were out of the question, but I could swing the pedals back and forth, going a little further each day. After a couple of weeks I could do complete revolutions, albeit only backwards, and it was weeks more before pedalling the right way was easy, but I got there in the end.

Finally, I got back on a proper bike, but one with a difference. Electric bikes aren’t just for the old and infirm, and my wife’s Kalkhoff pedelec (as they’re also known) certainly enabled me to get back into cycling.

The electric motor more than doubles your leg power, which is jolly useful when your legs haven’t been doing much for over two months. And it’s got a step-through frame, which means you can hop on and off regardless 90 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

of stiff joints.

The feeling of being able to cycle again...it was like the first wobbly ride as a five-year-old without stabilisers. The wind, the movement, the sheer freedom – just pedalling along Horsecastles, past the Abbey and into town felt like an epiphany, a real milestone on a literal road to recovery.

A chat with Mike Riley at Rileys Cycles revealed that I’m not alone in using pedal power to recuperate. “We’ve had a few customers who’ve had knee operations,” he told me, “and the key to their recovery is getting flexion back in the knee – having an electric bike helps. One is having a knee-joint

Volt Alpine ebike

replaced, and converting his mountain bike with an electric kit will enable him to get back in the saddle.

Shorter or adjustable pedal cranks can also help riders with limited knee flexibility. A friend of mine with an injured leg has a short crank on his ebike so he can continue to enjoy cycling.”

Of course, once you’re back riding again, the benefits of cycling keep on coming. It’s a gentle, non-impact exercise, which gives the legs, heart and lungs as much workout as you want them to have, and no more. And as everyone and his dog knows by now, physical exercise is good for mental health as well as the body. That’s true recuperation. PH

I

saw a great t- shirt slogan which said “I don’t need therapy, I just need to ride my bike!” I can personally vouch for the benefits of cycling for physical health and mental wellbeing. I control my weight through cycling exercise to help manage diabetes (I ride an extra 10 miles after a fish ’n’ chip supper) and the joy of riding through our lovely county lifts a low mood especially in good company like Sherborne Cycling Club or DCN. Studies have shown that regular cyclists have a longer life expectancy than non-cyclists and my GP is a keen cyclist so there must be something in it. MR rileyscycles.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 91

92 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Body & Mind

THE PARTY PLANNERS When it comes to looking good and feeling great this Christmas, help is at hand with the Body & Mind dream team of Sarah Hitch, Lindsay Punch, Loretta Lupi-Lawrence, Ellie Green and Sarah Attwood

INSIDE OUT

P

Sarah Hitch, The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms

arty season is fast approaching and with it plenty of opportunities to dress up, make-up and get our sparkle on. It’s the season of indulgence and when there’s a chance we might find ourselves burning the candle at both ends, it’s important to remember to perhaps pamper ourselves a little bit more. There’s no doubt the cameras will be flashing and we want to make sure we look and feel our best!

Start from the inside out. Drink a couple of extra glasses of water a day – perhaps while the kettle is boiling – and you will see the benefits within a month.

Visually your skin will be brighter and fine lines reduced, all down to better toxin elimination. You may even improve the stubborn dark circles under your eyes, which can in part be from a lack of sleep, but can also be a sign of excess toxins in your kidneys.

An all over body exfoliation – hands and soles of feet included – is a super invigorating and brightening skin pick-me-up. Use either a gritty cream paste with water in circular motions, rinsing gently, or another great inexpensive method is reusable exfoliating body gloves, lathered up with a good foaming shower gel.

Once you’ve removed the dead skin debris, hydrate and nourish with cream or rich body oil. This preparation will help hugely whether you’re applying self-tan for a winter glow, or going for body-baring perfection and treating yourself to a flawless golden spray tan!

With a glass (or two!) of something fizzy in your hand, all eyes will be on your hands and nails. Whilst rough, un-groomed, weathered hands might be a

telling sign of a fantastic garden, they can detract from your fabulous outfit or gorgeous new lippy. A shiny application of Gel Polish will see you through the Christmas period and make you smile every time you admire them. Your treatment will include professional cuticle maintenance and nail shaping to suit your hands and fingers. And whatever glorious colour you choose, it will be instantly dry, leaving you free to crack on with a no-doubt never-ending Christmas list of things to do.

Seek advice on your skincare routine and makeup application so that you’ll appear and feel at your best. You can brighten and smooth your face instantly just by using a gentle facial exfoliator once or twice a week at home. This will allow deeper penetration of moisturisers and provide a better base for makeup. Skin preparation and a good make-up base will prevent make-up creasing and make blending easier.

Make-up primers can create the look of naturally glowing skin, but beware that many can contain skin-blocking waxes and fillers which can cause breakouts and sensitivity. A great primer should give skin benefits, protect, illuminate and prepare the skin for extended make-up wear. And don’t forget your crowning glory! Make an appointment with your hairdresser to refresh and style those locks.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May you be happy and healthy (and confidently selfie-ready!). thesanctuarysherborne.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 93

Body & Mind

WHAT TO WEAR Lindsay Punch, Stylist

W

hat comes to your mind first when you receive an invitation to a Christmas party?

Of course it is “What shall I wear?�

If you are currently being blinded in your quest for the perfect outfit and want to steer away from the overload of sequins, ruffles and flounce, and body-con dresses that do not accommodate the seasonal food platters, then a fabulous accessory has the potential to make your Christmas outfit. There is nothing wrong with all of those things above, for some, they are the things that can make party season so fun, but for a lot of women, they are just too much.

When in doubt, it is easy to reach for a little black dress, simple silk shirt or glitzy jumper, and an onslaught of sparkling accessories will amplify any of these pieces for feminine elegance. Pairing these with some texture such as suede, velvet or leather, which can come in the form of boots, trousers or jackets, will lift any outfit.

Whether you are looking for a sleek clutch, statement 94 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

necklace, glittering bracelets or hoop earrings, The Circus in Sherborne, holds some of the most alluring party accessories including those from one of my favourite jewellery designers, Charlie Dodge. It is important to note that all of the above work best as layered plurals. It allows you to accessorise with panache and works for all ages.

One choker may not turn heads but stacking it with a longer animal horn or skull pendant can make a real statement. This works when starting with a classic, solid base, such as a cashmere sweater or silk shirt. For an elegant and effortless look, finish with a tuxedo blazer or faux fur gilet.

Not into necklaces? Try stacking your bracelets instead.

Arm parties are a real thing! Armfuls of bangles are a modern day trend, they can be equally distributed on both arms or just one. Keep complimentary colours together, start with thicker cuffs or wrap bracelets and finish with the smallest strands at the wrists. Want to add that little

extra, add a statement circular Swarovski crystal ring.

Star-studded offerings are abundant this season and there is no shortage of this cosmic trend in Charlie Dodge’s collection. Stars are always a popular seasonal motif and Charlie’s elegant Superstar hoop earrings would compliment any hair-do, adding just the right amount of glitz.

When you carry a great clutch, things change. Jazz up your outfit with brightly coloured, metallic or leopard print accents. Choose a multi-functional clutch which can be unfolded and added to a strap, transforming it to a superbly practical, cross-body handbag when you hit the dance floor later.

When it comes to accessory colours, different metals and gemstones flatter different skin-tones. Pinky/blue cool-toned skin is vibrant in silver and yellow/olive warm-toned skin is complimented with gold. Having said that, if you have a metallic preference, then go with what you love. If you are not sure if you are a warm or cool, a

colour consultant can always help you with this, but also mixing metals is seriously chic. Alternatively, opt for teal, a universally flattering colour that compliments everything.

It is a beautiful and luxurious hue used in Charlie’s jewellery designs. Your look can be further enhanced with a sheer luxe, teal velvet boot, also found in The Circus.

Accessories are the most transformative thing you can have in your wardrobe. If you have simple clothes, you can change your whole look with just one piece.

With this in mind, they can save you a lot of stress this party season. Whatever you wear this Christmas, look at yourself in the mirror and say “I look fabulous!”

All December Style Masterclasses have sold out, however, if you would like to host your own alternative Christmas style party or give a unique gift of style please contact Lindsay. lindsaypunchstyling.co.uk facebook.com/lindsaypunch sherbornetimes.co.uk | 95

Body & Mind

PARTY PROOF SKIN Loretta Lupi-Lawrence, Sherborne Rooms

W

elcome to the party month of the year! I simultaneously love and dread this month.

It’s a month of two halves. It leaves me penniless, danced out, bloated and exhausted on a different level to normal life fatigue; quite frankly I’m ruined by the time Christmas arrives! However, the memories of the laughter, dancing my socks off to songs like the Slade’s “Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day”, eating yummy indulgent party food, drinking a fair amount of alcohol and being very merry with good friends is always so worth it.

Whether you are host or hostess with the mostest, juggling work and play, party girl or boy of the month moving in all the circles or running yourself ragged with the huge glut of children parties, shows, end of term, visits to Father Christmas, shopping AND partying as much as possible this month is enough to test even the most hardened party goer. With so many parties to attend by Christmas Day your skin can look grey and lifeless but with some sparkle boosting tips, it doesn’t have to.

As your party gear is all lined up and ready, here’s how to look radiant and flawless in your skin the night before: 1 Set yourself some me time once children are in bed/ work is finished/exercise done.

2 Drink as much water as you can during the day. This will make your skin clear and fresh looking. Make an infusion of Neal’s Yard Remedies Beautiful Skin tea in a hot water (covered) for ten minutes to release the antioxidants. Strain them and pour into a bowl (and if you’ve made enough a cup to drink too, it’s delicious and will boost your water intake from the day).

3 Prep your skin. Party-proofing! Start by wetting the skin with warm water and massage in our gently exfoliating Rehydrating Rose Facial Polish (or the Palmarosa Facial Polish if you are prone to 96 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

4

5

6

7

8

breakouts) ~ do this using small circular motions.

Rinse away and pat your face dry.

Continuing along the massage theme; using the Wild Rose Beauty Balm, massage your face ~ this will give you a radiance boost. Here’s the clever bit; place a clean muslin cloth into the bowl of strained Beautiful Skin tea and wring out. Lie down (bonus!).

Hold the cloth over your face to steam your skin for around ten minutes and then use the same cloth to remove the balm.

Now apply a layer of the Rose Formula Antioxidant Facial Mask ~ avoid the eye area ~ and rinse off after 5 to 10 minutes.

Squeeze two drops of our nurturing Rehydrating Facial Oil (use Orange Oil for dryer skin or Frankincense for more aged skin) onto your fingertips. Close your eyes and inhale the therapeutic aroma just for a few moments. Your skin will not appear greasy by using an oil, oils will replace and replenish lost excreted oil from the day.

Finally massage in our lightweight Beauty Sleep Concentrate which will support your skin as it naturally rejuvenates overnight.

Get an early night. Sleep is so important for your skin. We all strive to look good but feeling good at the same time during a busy, often stressful, time is harder to achieve so whatever you do this December make time for your skin as well as your wellbeing and have a magical Christmas. Merry Christmas to you all!

Party Skin Workshop with nutritionist Hayley Frances, Sherborne Rooms, Wednesday 6th December, 1.15pm (45 minutes) and 7pm (2 hours). To book call 07545 328447 sherbornerooms.com

Abbey Brides THERAPY ROOMS & OFFICE SPACE

Beautiful bridal gowns & dream dresses 81 Cheap Street, Sherborne Contact Alison 01935 321375 | 07890 708552 abbey.brides@virgin.net

Our therapy rooms hold a diverse clinic of practitioners each running their own practice.

We use and sell Neal’s Yard Remedies products within our therapies. Pop into the shop to order your bathroom essentials or book a free one to one skin consultation & mini facial. Parties & workshops available.

We have rooms ready to be rented for either long or short terms or meetings. Quiet space with heating, desks, seating and wifi.

www.abbeybrides.co.uk @AbbeyBrides

Pop in for more information or call

01935 507290

email sherbornerooms@gmail.com or visit www.sherbornerooms.com

56 Cheap St, Sherborne DT9 3BJ

Give the Gift of Style

Gift Vouchers Available, Colour Analysis, Shape & Style, Consultations, Wardrobe Re-styling, Personal Shopping, Online Shopping, Mens Styling, Bridal Packages, New Mum Styling, Colour & Style Parties, Skincare & Makeup Advice 07969 557004 INFO@LINDSAYPUNCHSTYLING.CO.UK WWW.LINDSAYPUNCHSTYLING.CO.UK

OPENING HOURS: Monday: 8.30am ~ 5pm Tuesday: 8.30am ~ 5pm Wednesday: 8.30am ~ 5pm Thursday: 8.30am ~ 5pm Friday: 8.30am ~ 5pm Saturday: 7.30am ~ 4pm Walk in, relax. No appointment necessary

56 Cheap St, Sherborne DT9 3BJ sherbornetimes.co.uk | 97

Body & Mind

EAT A HEALTHY CHRISTMAS Ellie Green, Personal Trainer at Oxley Sports Centre

O

ne of the most enjoyable aspects of Christmas is all the festive food that will be on offer.

Christmas is a holiday based around good food, good company and celebration. Festive food doesn’t need to be bad for us and a little sweetness is fine, it’s the amount we need to watch.

Portion size is where most people go wrong at this time of year. It can be hard not to fill up your plate when you see delicious roast potatoes, steaming vegetables, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and juicy turkey on Christmas day. Remember though that whatever you put on your plate you are likely to finish, even if that means eating until you are uncomfortably full. Trying to take a small portion of everything first and allowing yourself time to savour every mouthful is a good way to keep an eye on what you’re eating. If you fill your plate and eat quickly you’re more likely to go back for a second helping before your food has even begun its journey and your brain has told you that you are full.

The average Christmas dinner is actually nutritionally very good for you with high levels of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals. Just try to remember that you are not eating with your eyes but with your stomach which can only take so much food comfortably.

At this time of year it can also be hard saying no to all the mince pies, biscuits and pieces of Christmas cake you are offered when you go and see your family.

Obviously Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the odd cake or mince pie but try to limit yourself. There are roughly two hundred and sixty to three hundred calories in a mince pie. Also, they are high in saturated fats which is a type of fat that holds a high proportion of fatty acid molecules and can lead to having too much cholesterol in our blood. Obviously you would have to eat a lot of mince pies for this to have an impact on your overall health but when the mince pies start 98 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

coming at the beginning of December and are being finished in January then we need to be mindful. Why not try making your own mince pies, swapping flour for wholemeal or corn flour, and oil for coconut oil? You can also add in some blended rolled oats to make the pastry thicker. This will bring down the saturated value and can be as little as one hundred and fifty four calories per pie.

There are other healthy alternatives to our day-to-day diets that we can choose during the festive season and even on Christmas day, which will taste just as good and be kinder to our waistlines. Swapping crispy roast potatoes for sweet potatoes will immediately decrease the glycogen levels in the carbohydrates, providing our body with more energy for longer. Also choosing turkey over chicken or beef, will give you a leaner meat with similar protein levels. Remember to include as many vegetables as possible on your Christmas plate. Making sure that there are extra greens available, like nutritious kale which is high in iron, will help fill you with goodness and leave less room for the sweet treats at the end of the meal.

Finally, let’s not forget about exercising at this time of year. All it takes is two weeks without any form of physical activity for our overall fitness levels to drop and a massive six weeks to gain them back. It might be worth remembering this over the Christmas period.

Thirty minutes of exercise just three times a week will keep your body ticking over, so even with all this good food around there is no reason for you to gain weight over the Christmas period. Let’s keep our minds and bodies happy this Christmas!

Oxley Sports Centre is open for fitness over the Christmas period and we’d love to see you.

We wish you all a very healthy, happy Christmas and an Oxley New Year. oxleysc.com

Join us throughout December for some

Seriously Indulgent Christmas Offers Sparkling Manicure + Pedicure in New Festive Colours + Glass of Prosecco

Only £50 per person or £90 for two when you come with a friend

Indulge with a Luxuriously Warming Hot Stone Full Body Massage

An amazing offer! Only £35 (saving £20 per treatment)

1 The Green, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3HY T: 01935 389688 E: bookings@ameliarosebeauty.co.uk www.ameliarosebeauty.co.uk

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Cuts, blow-dry, hair up and colour Women, men and children Call 07866 571789 or Email roura2@msn.com

For more information please call 01935 818270 or go to our website www.oxleysc.com Bradford Road, Sherborne DT9 3DA

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 99

Body & Mind

HOW TO INDULGE WITHOUT FEELING ILL Sarah Attwood, Cert. ASK Kinesiologist, Thrive Health and Wellness, Neal's Yard Remedies Independent Consultant

’T

is the season to be jolly…and eat and drink to excess! Christmas is a wonderfully social time of year, a time for sharing and giving, meeting and eating, treats and temptation. I am definitely NOT here to tell you to avoid all the naughty treats, after all bucks fizz and croissants are a delightful way to start Christmas Day, but to save you entering the New Year feeling as if you need another holiday to recover, have a read of these festive tips.

Preparation and moderation are the words to repeat.

Indulge but don’t overindulge. Our digestive system takes a bit of a battering at this time of year as we tend to eat larger quantities of rich food and ignore the full messages our stomach sends us. This can lead to bloating, gas and constipation – hardly gifts we want to receive!

Here are a few tips to help you look after your digestive health during the festive season.

1 Line your stomach – let’s be realistic and start with alcohol. Drinking on an empty stomach irritates the stomach lining which can not only be uncomfortable 100 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

but also means the alcohol is absorbed much quicker (sounds fun but you can soon feel liverish). Filling up on a protein-rich breakfast, for example smoked salmon and eggs or porridge with blueberries will help.

2 Hydration - consider starting the day with a hot water and lemon, which is a lovely support for the large intestine in purging the effects of the day before. Alternate every alcoholic beverage with a glass of water, or at least try to have a glass of water every couple of hours. Embrace French style and have a glass of water with every caffeinated drink.

3 Support your liver – milk thistle is a marvellous support for the liver which is breaking down toxins and packaging them up to be excreted from the body. Water, fresh air and fruit juice are great ways to soothe a hangover.

4 Remember your fruit and vegetables – they are a great source of fibre and huge support to the elimination phase. Eating these will also provide much needed nutrients and antioxidants, help balance blood sugar levels and allow you to fill up on

nutritious food, with space for snacks on top.

5 Food triggers – cake, cream and croissants are not only delicious but also contain the most popular food triggers of sugar, dairy and wheat, how annoying. Pay attention to your gut and be aware of what irritates it. Wheat is a trigger for me having spent years with IBS. I avoid it where I can, to reduce inflammatory markers so if I eat a small amount, e.g. in stuffing, it won’t have as big an impact as a bunch of mince pies. a. Digestive enzymes are a complete essential in my book. Taking two before my main meal helps my body prepare to break down the food more quickly and stops me feeling bloated. b. Cleanse Fibre Blend from Neal’s Yard Remedies is a lifesaver, packed full of fibre to support the large intestine. Sprinkle onto porridge, cereal or whizz up in a smoothie to help keep things regular.

6 Keep moving – exercise will stimulate the digestive and endocrine system, help regulate the bowels and soothe our minds. A short afternoon stroll while the lunch is cooking will suffice.

7 Sleep - give in and switch off for restorative sleep. It is tempting to stay up all night watching Christmas films but remember to allow the body time to recover overnight and process the excess of the day.

8 Emotional support – being with our families often sees us revert back into parent/child/ squabbling sibling roles. Be mindful of this and try to allow some time (a walk perhaps) just with your partner or children away from the wider family to keep the balance.

KICKSTART YOUR HEALTH WORKSHOP

Finally, relax and enjoy! Don’t panic if you’ve eaten one too many portions of Christmas pudding, just enjoy and remember that tomorrow Is another day.

If it helps, pop Saturday 13th January in your diary for a Kickstart Your Health workshop of cleansing advice, smoothie-making and goal-setting.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy Christmas.

Health Clinic

thrivehealthwellness.co.uk You’ll find Sarah on the Neal’s Yard Remedies stand at Sherborne’s Festive Shopping Day with natural health and organic skincare gifts, stocking-fillers and aromatherapy treats.

Saturday 13th January 2018

Take charge of your health by joining Thrive to start the new year with a fresh focus.

Clear advice and helpful tips. No targets or pressure just support to help you feel better and back in control.

• Nutritional advice • Digestion and immune system support • Goal and intention setting • Stress reduction Booking essential

Thrive Health and Wellness, Sherborne Sarah Attwood Cert. ASK 07708 926000 www.thrivehealthwellness.co.uk sarah@thrivehealthwellness.co.uk

LONDON ROAD CLINIC • Acupuncture • Osteopathy • Counselling • Physiotherapy • EMDR Therapy • Shiatsu

• Podiatry and Chiropody • Manual Lymphatic Drainage • Soft Tissue Therapy, Sports & Remedial Massage Therapy • Hopi Ear Candle Therapy

Tel: 01963 251860

www.56londonroad.co.uk Email: info@56londonroad.co.uk 56 London Road, Milborne Port, Sherborne DT9 5DW Free Parking and Wheelchair access sherbornetimes.co.uk | 101

Body & Mind

BEREAVED AT CHRISTMAS

F

Jackie Hart, Psychodynamic Counsellor, M.St. Psychodynamic Practice (Oxon), BACP Accredited, 56 London Road Clinic

or most of us hearing Noddy Holder belt out ‘Merry Christmas Everybody’ for the 10th time in the run up to Christmas may just be slightly irritating. However, if you have lost someone close during the year, the constant reminder that Christmas, without your loved one, is just around the corner may be a special form of torture. You may wish that Christmas (and Noddy Holder) would just go away.

Christmas can be a difficult time not only for the recently bereaved, but for anyone who has lost a special person a year, or even 10 years earlier. The festive season, after all, is when families and friends get together to celebrate and share happy times. We are supposed to be jolly – ho ho ho and all that! Even the major supermarkets are in on it, their Christmas TV advert extravaganzas bombarding us in our living rooms with the myth of the ‘perfect’ family and the ‘perfect family Christmas’. The end of the year is a natural time for reflection and if you are bereaved, Christmas may highlight the absence of the loved one. It may also provoke complex feelings and bring back memories of Christmases past when you were together. You may be worrying about how you are going to get through it, you may not feel like celebrating or you may feel isolated and left out when those around you are full of festive spirit.

So what can you do to help yourself ? The short answer is: whatever works for you. There is no right or wrong way. It might help you to think about the following: • Look after yourself and cut yourself some slack. Practice some self-care. You have been through a lot. Heightened feelings of loss and sadness are normal at this time.

Conversely you may not feel anything at all. That’s OK. We all grieve differently. Try to get adequate exercise 102 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

and rest and try not to over indulge too much.

• Preparation. Try to work out beforehand what you might want to do over Christmas. Will it work best for you if you carry on as normal maintaining routines and traditions? Would you like to bring your lost loved one into the celebrations in some way? Perhaps you feel you would like to do something completely different over Christmas such as spending time alone or volunteering at a homeless shelter? Whatever you decide to do, be flexible and remember it’s OK to change your mind.

• Other family members may want to do things differently from you over Christmas. Respect their choice. Children can be resilient but you may want to ask them how they would like to celebrate this year and whether there is anything they would like to do differently.

• You may need to give yourself permission to enjoy the Christmas festivities. Enjoyment is not a sign that you did not love or miss the bereaved person. It might be helpful to think about what they would want for you?

• Talk to friends and family about how you are feeling.

Reach out. Make use of your social networks. Turn to your faith. Seek help from your GP, organisations specialising in loss and bereavement or a professionally trained counsellor if you feel overwhelmed by your feelings. Charities such as the Samaritans are there for support 24 hours a day including Christmas Day. Jackie offers counselling at the London Road Clinic, 56 London Road in Milborne Port. She can be contacted on 07904 440159 or jackieliahart@gmail.com 01963 251860 or info@56londonroad.co.uk 56londonroad.co.uk

ALLERGY TESTING WHICH TEST TO CHOOSE?

Dr Tim Robinson MB BS MSc MRCGP DRCOG MFHom, GP and Complementary Practitioner, Glencairn House

A

n allergy is a reaction by your immune system to a protein that has been breathed in, eaten or touched that may result in a variety of medical conditions. These range from hayfever and catarrh with a runny nose, sneezing and wheezing, reactions to food such as loose motions, vomiting and bloating, and skin irritation with eczema or hives.

There is a selection of allergy tests on offer but which ones are trustworthy and meaningful? The only allergy tests that are reliable, reproducible, scientific and validated are Skin Prick Testing and Specific IgE antibody blood tests. There are a number of so-called allergy tests on offer to the general public that are none of those things. Vega testing in which the patient is wired up to a ‘black box’ and have a probe placed on their big toe purports to test up to 3500 different compounds in about 3 minutes! Kinesiology, in which the patient holds a test material in one hand and then the practitioner tests the arm strength in the other arm, is said to be legitimate. Both of these test methods have been studied in conventional trials and have returned inconsistent, inaccurate and unreproducible results. Hair analysis is also said to be able to test for allergy but this is incorrect. Finger-prick allergy testing in health food shops or on the internet is misleading and unscientific.

Skin Prick Testing is scientifically plausible and validated. After taking a detailed account of the problem

from the patient, the practitioner chooses a number of test samples that are most likely to be causing the allergic reaction. A droplet of the sample is placed on the forearm and a very fine lancet is gently applied to it. About 10 minutes later the site of the droplet is inspected. If you are allergic to that chosen test sample you will develop a raised itchy lump like a stinging nettle rash. If you are not allergic, nothing will happen! And so you know precisely and immediately what you are allergic to.

The other validated test is Specific IgE blood testing.

This is useful when you can’t stop taking antihistamine tablets or you have extensive eczema. The blood test result can take up to 2 weeks to come back. This can be arranged through your GP or through a private laboratory but it is expensive.

Allergy testing is useful for a number of reasons. You can discover whether symptoms or condition is due to allergy or not. If the allergy test is positive it identifies the true allergic trigger factor which can be avoided or eliminated from your diet. If the test is negative allergy can be confidently ruled out and the situation is clarified.

All in all allergy testing is helpful but beware of which allergy test you choose – not all of them are quite what they say they are. doctorTWRobinson.com GlencairnHouse.co.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 103

Brister&Son Independent Family Funeral Directors

When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure you – every step of the way Call Daniel on 01935 812647 100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: daniel@wsbrister.com www.wsbrister.com

A J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors and Monumental Masons - 24 Hour Service -

www.ajwakely.com

16 Newland, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3JQ Tel: 01935 816817 Please contact Clive Wakely or a member of the dedicated team for any advice or guidance 104 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

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The Old Vicarage Leigh, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 6HL

01935 873033

care@tovic.com

We are delighted to announce that following our recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission we have been awarded a rating of Outstanding. This means we are in the top 1% of care homes in England.

The Old Vicarage CQC overall rating

28 January 2016

Set in its own secluded, beautifully landscaped gardens, woodland and meadow, and with stunning views overlooking the Dorset countryside, it’s hard to resist the charms of the Old Vicarage. As soon as you step through the front door of this charming country house, you’ll discover an oasis of comfort, warmth, calm and relaxation.

Our highly trained staff ensure that everything - from the mouth-watering food and drink and the stylishly cosy bedrooms to the wide range of activities - will make the Old Vicarage truly a home from home. We have been recognised by the Cinnamon Trust as being one of the best pet friendly care homes in the country.

To arrange a visit please call on 01935 873033 or email care@tovic.com

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 107

Property

SHOULD YOU VOLUNTARILY REGISTER YOUR LAND OWNERSHIP? Sarah Dunlop, Agriculture Team, Mogers Drewett Solicitors

Y

ou might not be aware of the fact that not all land and property is registered at the Land Registry in England and Wales. In fact, the Land Registry estimated that, in 2014, as much as 15% of land and property within England and Wales remains unregistered. This might not seem a very high percentage but in terms of scale, this 15% roughly equates to around 2.3 million hectares which is over 8880 square miles or over five times the combined size of Snowdonia National Park and the Lake District!

It has been mandatory to apply to register land ownership at the Land Registry when the transfer of land ownership takes place since the 1990s. This was extended in 2002 by the Land Registration Act under which compulsory registration must take place where there is a transfer of property ownership, including after death by Executors, where a first legal charge is granted (e.g. a mortgage) or where a lease has been granted for a term in excess of seven years.

However, if a property has not been affected by transactions that trigger compulsory registration and the owners have not applied on a voluntary basis, that property would remain unregistered.

If you are living in or own land in and around the beautiful countryside around Sherborne that that has perhaps been ‘in the family’ for generations, you could find that the land is not registered if nothing has changed regarding its ownership or status for the past twenty years or so.

Does this matter? Why would someone choose to voluntarily register their land ownership?

There are in fact many benefits of applying for voluntary registration of your property. Registration can save time in subsequent property dealings which, in turn, could save you money. As part of registration, an up to date Ordnance Survey plan will be produced and recorded showing the extent of your property. HM Land Registry does not hold records of unregistered properties in England and Wales.

Registration of your property gives higher protection 108 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

against anyone attempting to claim adverse possession or ‘squatters’ rights’ against your land. It is much harder to claim adverse possession against property registered at the Land Registry as the process of responding to an adverse possession claim is slightly different.

Registration also allows any title issues to be rectified within your ownership and lifetime. It is not unheard of for older deeds to go missing, or for there to be slight boundary anomalies and your knowledge would be important in resolving any issues. It would certainly help when looking at succession planning.

Lastly, once the property is registered, the Land Registry guarantees your title. It also records your relevant title deeds which means that there will always be a record of them.

Ultimately, the voluntary process remains just that.

Once registered at the Land Registry, your property ownership is public, as is the information within. This means that those rights that benefit and burden your property will be in the public domain, which may be undesirable to some.

But, what is certain is that at some point your property will be subject to compulsory registration when one of the triggering events takes place. HM Land Registry is keen to get as much unregistered land as possible registered and it offers a discounted registration fee for voluntary first registrations.

Rather frustratingly, the Land Registry is suffering quite a large delay in processing both compulsory and voluntary first registrations. However, undertaking the voluntary process could well reduce the stress involved in a property transaction and give you more flexibility and control over the speed in which the application is made.

Sarah Dunlop is based at the Sherborne office of Mogers Drewett and can be contacted on 01935 813691 or sarah.dunlop@mogersdrewett.com mogersdrewett.com

WHEN IT COMES TO AGRICULTURAL LEGAL ISSUES, SARAH LIKES TO TAKE THE REINS. For Sarah Dunlop, the more time she spends in the countryside and out of the office the better.

That’s what makes her perfect for helping her agricultural clients. Whether it’s queries about farm management, property or landed estates, Sarah knows what it’s like to have obstacles in her way. And, like riding, she needs to be in total control all the time - because it’s all too easy to get thrown.

mogersdrewett.com T 0800 533 5349

Property

PROPERTY MARKET Q&A Luke Pender-Cudlip BSc Hons MRICs, Partner, Knight Frank

T

his month I thought I would share the firm’s thoughts on some topical questions.

What impact will Brexit have on my property sale?

The general feeling – and this is backed up by our research team here at Knight Frank – is that the nervousness generated by Brexit is receding. In fact, the sales figures show that activity is up 20% on the same time last year. From talking to buyers and sellers alike, it’s clear that many are taking the long-term view. They are also recognising the fact that even in the midst of our own political and economic issues, the UK still represents a safe haven and compares favourably in terms of certainty and stability to other leading markets.

For all these reasons, we’re finding that Brexit is having little real impact on current sales and transactions are proceeding normally.

Would you recommend a private or open sale?

There’s no right answer to this question as it depends so much on the circumstances. With an open market, you gain all the exposure that comes with our print, digital and press campaigns, so you are going to reach a very high quality and international audience. This, generally speaking, gives the best chance of generating healthy competition for your property. That said, a private sale also has its advantages. It’s obviously the choice for those wanting a discreet transaction – whether for personal or business reasons – but the sense of having privileged access to a property can lead to a competitive bidding situation among the handful of potential buyers. Ultimately, we’ve achieved great results with either route and it comes down to personal preference on the level of publicity you feel comfortable with.

110 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

How should a good estate agent market my property in 2018?

Firstly, a good agent will likely already know of buyers for your property or they’ll be found quickly by talking to colleagues across a network. However, to achieve the highest possible price for your property, it’s important that the highest number of people have the chance to view it. As well as the channels with which you’ll be familiar such as advertising, displaying it in windows, email marketing and on portals like OnTheMarket and Rightmove, they would also use the technology behind social media such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to promote your property to exactly the right buyer. Some – ourselves included – produce globally distributed publications featuring thier properties, and will have a dedicated PR team working hard to place clients’ properties in local, national and international newspapers and magazines. In summary, you should be confident that wherever your perfect buyer is, they’ll find them for you.

What is the profile of the today’s typical prime country property buyer.

I would say that it’s as varied as it’s ever been – it could as likely be a successful business person based in London looking for a country retreat as a high net worth family from the Middle East or Asia. For international buyers, space and privacy tend to be the main parameters for the search. Beyond that, they are attracted by the UK’s high quality education, low crime and the currently very favourable exchange. For many country buyers generally, the proximity to London is key – they want the rural idyll but being close to the station is just as important.

Knightfrank.co.uk/sherborne

Our clients say...

“A professional team produced a stream of viewings resulting in a sale within 8 weeks.

Fantastic people to work with and definitely knew the market locally.”

Vendor

 “Luke and his team have been very impressive in this transaction - knowledgeable, proactive and ultimately securing a great result for both buyer and seller.

I look forward to working with you again.”

Solicitor

 “A huge thank you to Luke, Simon and the rest of the team at Knight Frank in Sherborne for helping steer us through the sale of our family home. We are happy that we chose to work with such an experienced and knowledgeable team.”

Vendor

 “We have today completed the sale of our latest project just outside of Gillingham. From conception we found the advice of the team at Knight Frank, Sherborne invaluable. Prior to completion they sold the property for full asking price. We constantly deal with a number of various agents in the Dorset area, but have to admit that they are head and shoulders above the rest. If you are considering selling I strongly recommend them being your first port of call.”

Developer

 “Pro-active, switched on well measured; seriously impressive agency. Luke Pender-Cudlip and Simon Barker are a pleasure to work with producing first class and timely results.”

Solicitor

 “A very big thank you to Simon Barker. He was supportive and helpful and committed to ensuring the purchase went as smoothly as possible despite a buyer dropping out.”

Vendor

 If you’re looking to move, please contact us.

We’d love to help you.

01935 590 022 sherborne@knightfrank.com

@KF_SouthWest KnightFrank.co.uk/sherborne

Property

THINKING OF BECOMING A LANDLORD? Paul Gammage & Anita Light, Ewemove Sherborne

A

ccording to Property Checklists, there are over 400 rules and regulations governing a rental property and the relationship between a landlord and tenant. I haven’t counted them but I’m not surprised by that number. Property rental is a heavily regulated area and only going to get more so. Fall foul of the rules and procedures and it could cost you dear.

Of course, some landlords successfully go it alone but if you’re not sure whether you need the help of a letting agent, here are just some of the things they can help with.

Before you buy to rent

If you’re thinking of buying to rent, you should take advice from a local letting agent first. They’ll know what you can expect to get in terms of rental income and what the demand in your area is for different property types. This is a critical part of rental success and a good letting agent will be able to recommend the best types of property to buy.

Getting your property ready

Before you rent your property, there are a number of legal requirements that you have to comply with which include: • Protecting a tenant’s deposit within 30 days of receiving it • Installing smoke alarms on all floors and carbon monoxide detectors in any rooms with fuel-burning devices. Furniture should be flame-resistant • Arranging a gas safety inspection and providing your tenant with a copy of the certificate • Ensuring the property has a valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), a copy of which again must be given to the tenant • Providing your tenant with the latest “How To Rent” guide setting out landlord obligations and tenants’ rights

112 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

• Ensuring any appliances at the property are safe • Updating the utilities • Ensuring you have a formal tenancy agreement. Although this is not strictly a legal requirement, you would be extremely unwise to enter into a tenancy without one Failure to comply with the above could leave you facing a substantial fine or even worse.

Finding and vetting tenants

The next step of your rental journey is to advertise your property in a way that attracts the right kind of tenants.

If your agent does not charge tenants fees to apply then you’ll get lots of interest and be able to cherry pick the best fit. Make sure your letting agent will robustly vet prospective tenants. Onerous Right to Rent checks will be required as will credit checks and references. You may decide you would like a guarantor as well. If you can visit the tenant in their current home it will give you an idea of how they will treat yours. You’ll probably want to find them quite quickly so you’re not left with a rent void.

Once your tenant moves in

Of course, as a landlord, your role doesn’t stop once your tenant moves in. You’ll need a proper inventory and a property check when they arrive. The utility companies and the Council will need to be advised of the change of occupancy. You’ll also need the resources to deal with any property management issues that may arise in a timely fashion.

If you feel you don’t have the time or the inclination to be in the detail, look for a letting agent that can be reached 24/7 and has the infrastructure to take all that stress out of being a landlord. ewemove.com/sherborne

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Peace of mind

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Sherborne’s Most Trusted Estate Agent Based On Thousands of Independent Customer Reviews on We know choosing the best estate agent can be difficult.

One of the things our customers said which helped them decide was hearing real life stories from existing customers.

Anita Light & Paul Gammage, Branch Directors Call: 01935 350 350 Visit: www.EweMove.com/Sherborne

A very Happy Christmas to all our clients

Not found what you’re looking for?

Established for 10 years, Stockwood proudly represent a diverse portfolio of town and country property.

We look forward to hearing from you.

5 Tilton Court, Digby Road, Sherborne DT9 3NL T: 01935 816209 E: info@stockwoodlettings.co.uk www.stockwoodlettings.co.uk

Ever present Sherborne 01935 814488 symondsandsampson.co.uk 114 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Live for today and plan for the future

Sherborne Office

01935 817903 James Mobile

07824 389750 Lucinda Mobile

James Oliver DipPFS CeMAP Independent Financial Advisor Pensions and Retirement Planning • Investments • Inheritance Tax Planning • Mortgage and Equity Release • Life Assurance and Protection

james.oliver@ssfs.co.uk

07791 094 551 www.ssfs.co.uk

Lucinda Warren CeMAP BSc (Hons) Independent Mortgage Advisor Mortgage • Life Assurance and Protection • Buy to Let Mortgage

lucinda@ssfs.co.uk

Strategic Solutions is a trading style of Strategic Solutions Financial Services which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, number 525733. Principals: Kevin Forbes: Jefferson Fawcett: Giles Wellington: Allan Cruse.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

Finance

LESSONS FOR THE NEXT CRISIS

I

Andrew Fort B.A. (Econ.) CFPcm Chartered MCSI APFS, Certified and Chartered Financial Planner, Fort Financial Planning

t is now the 10-year anniversary of when, in early October 2007, the S&P 500 Index hit what was its highest point before losing more than half its value over the next year and a half during the global financial crisis.

Over the coming weeks and months, as other anniversaries of major crisis-related events pass (for example, 10 years since the bank run on Northern Rock or 10 years since the collapse of Lehman Brothers), there will likely be a steady stream of retrospectives on what happened as well as opinions on how the environment today may be similar or different from the period leading up to the crisis. It is difficult to draw useful conclusions based on such observations; financial markets have a habit of behaving unpredictably in the short run. There are, however, important lessons that investors might be well-served to remember. Capital markets have rewarded investors over the long term, and having an investment approach you can stick with—especially during tough times—may better prepare you for the next crisis and its aftermath.

Benefits of hindsight

In 2008, the stock market dropped in value by almost half. Being a decade removed from the crisis may make it easier to take the past in stride. The eventual rebound and subsequent years of double-digit gains have also likely helped in this regard. While the events of the crisis were unfolding, however, a future of this sort looked anything but certain. Headlines such as “Worst Crisis Since ’30s” and ”Worst Single-Day Drop in Two Decades” were common front page news.

While being an investor today (or during any period,

116 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

for that matter), is by no means a worry-free experience, the feelings of panic and dread felt by many during the financial crisis were distinctly acute. Many investors reacted emotionally to these developments. In the heat of the moment, some decided it was more than they could stomach, so they sold out of stocks. On the other hand, many who were able to stay the course and stick to their approach recovered from the crisis and benefited from the subsequent rebound in markets.

It is important to remember that this crisis and the subsequent recovery in financial markets was not the first time in history that periods of substantial volatility have occurred.

Conclusion

In the mind of some investors, there is always a “crisis of the day” or potential major event looming that could mean the beginning of the next drop in markets. As we know, predicting future events correctly, or how the market will react to future events, is a difficult exercise. It is important to understand, however, that market volatility is a part of investing. To enjoy the benefit of higher potential returns, investors must be willing to accept increased uncertainty.

A key part of a good long-term investment experience is being able to stay with your investment philosophy, even during tough times. A well‑thought‑out, transparent investment approach can help people be better prepared to face uncertainty and may improve their ability to stick with their plan and ultimately capture the long-term returns of capital markets. ffp.org.uk

Your Life, Your Money, Your Future Trusted, professional, fee based advice We live in a complex world. At FFP we aim to remove complexity, replacing it with simplicity and clarity so that our clients can enjoy their lives without worry

FFP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

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AHEAD IN THE CLOUD Our real-time cloud accounting solutions present you with a full picture of your financial position 24/7, allowing you to proactively plan and respond ahead of tax deadlines.

For a fresh take on your accounts, speak to Hunts

T: 01935 815008 E: info@huntsaccountants.co.uk W: huntsaccountants.co.uk @Hunts_Sherborne The Old Pump House, Oborne Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3RX

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 117

Tech

O

h dear! Is it really Christmas again? I’m writing this and it’s not even November yet! Last month I was asked for some advice… “I keep getting stuff about AVG and security etc. etc. and I find it very confusing. Should I be using them and pressing their buttons?” Well should you? This is not intended to be anti-AVG but more, anti-most antivirus companies.

They mostly badger you constantly to buy extra security products to stop life-as-you-know-it from ending. So what are you to do? Consider your risks!

In my humble opinion this is simple, unashamed, scare-mongering, sales talk intended to get you to buy a product that you don’t need. Unless you are a terrorist, crook or have “something to hide”, do you really care if someone knows what websites you’ve visited or what emails you’ve sent with holiday snaps? To start with, they’d have to be interested in you in the first place to be watching you, among the other 55 million residents of our country, and, despite all the chat, that’s still pretty difficult. Getting you to buy additional products is perhaps an admission that their base product might not be good enough on its own? I’d ignore them all and when the time comes, consider looking at other security products that may better suit your needs.

The most important thing is to have something rather than nothing. Windows 10 has a perfectly good built-in firewall that will protect you against external hackers (as does your router), but it doesn’t look at outgoing traffic that may be infected and may open a door for a hacker. For that to happen you must first have contracted a virus or malware. Windows 10 also 118 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

included a perfectly serviceable antivirus system called Windows Defender that will protect you against most common threats and known dodgy software, so unless you consider yourself to be a high-risk user then don’t be drawn in to buying unnecessary extras.

By high-risk, I mean those of you that regularly visit online chat systems, news groups, video sharing, downloading & torrent sites that are of questionable origin (i.e. you have teenage children using your PC). If you think that you fall into this category, then you do need something more robust. Look for something that is termed “Internet Security” as this will include antivirus, firewall and antimalware. Some include password managers, backup and spam filters, but these are not so important and are used as sweeteners to convince you to buy. Frequently you’ll be offered multi-user deals and smart-phone protection but don’t be blinded by these deals - concentrate on the primary functions and how good they are.

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

All that remains is to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Coming up next month… New Year: New Broom computing-mp.co.uk

J. Biskup

Property Maintenance Ltd

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BEST PRICES ON THE MARKET FREE QUOTATIONS SHERBORNE Tel: 01935 815712 • Mobile: 07912 145988 Email: jm.biskup@gmail.com www.jbiskup.com

FOLK TALES with Colin Lambert

HOLLIE BARBER Bullying, Breastfeeding and the Colour Purple

I

was born in Featherstone, a tiny mining village with three pits and lots of terraced houses. Its rugby team (Featherstone Rovers) were famous for giant-killing.

My dad was Captain and that made me different. I was bullied, even attacked with a knife once (still have the scar). It taught me to run fast and side-step though.

Hollie Barber was born in Milborne Port, at home, in her parents’ lounge. That alone made her different.

Her entire family being artists, musicians, sculptors, ceramicists and graphic designers didn’t help either. She dressed brightly and spoke of art and magic.

“Bullied?” I ask.

“The name-calling was the worst. My memories of playtime are of me sitting on the wall outside the school hall, crying. I had a hard time making friends in Primary School, I still don’t really understand why.”

“At the Gryphon I learnt to cover up the fact that I had no friends by playing class clown, getting away with a lot as I achieved good grades despite my class clown facade!”

Aged 18, I went to Loughborough College and dressed, from head to toe, in purple for three years. I’ve loathed the colour ever since, or so I thought.

Aged 18 Hollie unexpectedly found herself pregnant.

“It wasn’t so clear at the time, but becoming pregnant at 18 was the best thing to ever happen to me, a turning point in my life.”

“Best thing to happen?”

“I’d been told previously that I was unlikely to conceive 120 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

naturally. I’d left school at 16, moved in with my boyfriend, got a ‘real job’ but was on a bit of a downward spiral, in with the wrong crowd. The moment I saw the positive pregnancy test, my life changed. To me, that baby was the most important thing I’d ever been given to take care of, and I was going to ensure that it had the very best start in life. I got totally into the whole thing, from writing my birth plan and researching non-pharmaceutical forms of pain-relief to planning my daughter’s first foods. Becoming a mother was like finding my calling.”

By 20, Hollie had two children under 2 years of age.

“Wow, Hollie that’s amazing. But you’re dressed from head to toe in purple now...”

“I am, but I’ll tell you first about the breastfeeding.

I felt very alone in the early days of having a newborn baby. Most of the other mothers I knew didn’t breastfeed and I’m ashamed to say now that I felt embarrassed at the time that I did. Too many young women feel under pressure to bottle feed and return to their pre-baby bodies and lifestyles. So I trained as a breastfeeding supporter, worked at Yeovil Hospital and set up a breastfeeding support group in Sherborne. The group still runs and supports mothers of all ages with issues that can arise when breastfeeding. It is completely natural but it doesn’t always come naturally, so finding a support network with like-minded people who are trained to assist you can make such a difference.”

Even the Daily Mail agrees (The George, bar copy,

Image: Katharine Davies

31st October 2017). They said “…breastfeeding gives a newborn the best possible start in life... right up to the age of 11”. So it must be true!

“My confidence grew both as a mother and in myself.

I worked as a nanny for three years, by which point I was going through a house settlement and a break-up with my children’s father. It was at this point that I turned to yoga and meditation to see me through...which is what later led me to training and taking the plunge to build my own career as a Relax Kids Coach.”

“Relax Kids Coach?” I say, noticing a strong correlation between her purple clothing and hair and the Relax Kids branding.

“I’ve always coloured my hair, though the colour is pure co-incidence [synchronicity]. When I turned up for training I discovered that the entire Relax Kids brand is purple - uniform, logo, props, training manual.” Hollie passed with flying colours, all purple.

“Kids Coach? Tell me more.”

“I work with children aged from 3-16 in schools, clubs and also privately. We work through a seven-step

module built up of Movement, Play, Yoga, Peer/SelfMassage, Breathing Exercises, Positive Affirmations and Visualisations, introducing the children to mindfulness techniques and skills for life that can dramatically improve their emotional and mental wellbeing.

I love it. Children tell me every week that they have been using the tools I’ve taught them in class to overcome anxieties and fears, or to self-regulate and calm themselves down when their emotions are getting the better of them. It’s such a rewarding job and I really feel like I’m making a difference!”

Wow! Hollie - thank you for joining me on this month’s Folk Tales. I only wish you had been around when my kids were little.

P.S. I’m getting married on 30th December. Sheila and her maids will all be dressed in…purple!

Hollie is now taking bookings for her next 6 week course starting in January for children aged 4-10. She can be contacted at holliebarber@live.com or via her Facebook page @relaxkidscoachhollie sherbornetimes.co.uk | 121

Short Story

FIVE SENSES

S

David Copp, Sherborne Scribblers

eeing the bountiful earth has been an enormous pleasure. I recall my first sight of Grasmere in the Lake District and found myself wondering if heaven could improve on it. That view, the arrangement of woods and water, paths and panoramas has stayed with me. On another occasion I took a flight from Exeter to Newcastle, on a lovely summer’s evening, with a cloudless blue sky. I could clearly see England below in every detail and was reminded that, despite a few sprawling conurbations, this is still a very green and pleasant land.

Seeing our children and grandchildren grow up has been another delight and I feel for those less fortunate who have never had that pleasure.

Touching is also a wonderful gift. To be close to someone you love whether wife, parent, child, grandchild, old friend or even old adversary, is cathartic.

Hearing is the hot topic in our household. One doesn’t realise how wonderful a gift it is until you start losing it. I recently bought a good set of headphones with which to listen to my favourite music. I love the clarinet but also the human voice. The headphones have helped me appreciate old favourites and some new.

Smelling good food is a particular enjoyment and I am grateful I have such a good resident chef. But I had very good reason to be grateful (in the army and in Africa) for the ability to smell fear and danger. Smelling fear is humbling. A very good thing!

Tasting for me means wine rather than food. I am extremely grateful to Professor Emile Peynaud, one of the great oenologists of the twentieth century, working at the time for the Bordeaux branch of the French Wine firm Calvet, who taught me to taste wine properly. The professor insisted on a disciplined approach which meant thoughtful preparation such as not using toothpaste on the morning of a big tasting!

‘Use your eyes to assess the colour carefully, then your touch to swirl the glass and stimulate the flavours of the grape, your nose to assess the condition and particular qualities of the wine, then use the various parts of your tongue to assess the wine’s condition. Finally, keep your ears shut so that you don’t hear the opinions of fellow tasters and concentrate on forming your own opinion without outside influence.’

122 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Literature

LITERARY REVIEW Deborah Bathurst, Sherborne Literary Society

Jacob’s Room is Full of Books - A Year of Reading

by Susan Hill (Profile Books) 266 pp hardback £12.99 Exclusive Sherborne Times Reader Offer of £11.99 from Winstone’s Books

S

usan Hill is a successful novelist, crime- and ghost-story writer and publisher, having founded The Long Barn press. She is also an avid reader and this is her second foray into non-fiction about books and reading.

The first of these two books was ‘Howards End Is On The Landing: A Year of Reading from Home’ published in 2009. This successor is also a year of reading - so how do they differ?

The earlier book was devoted to re-reading the books which the author already has in the house. The chapters are organised in groups of authors or genres. Part of the focus is on the task of identifying 40 books that “I think I could manage with alone for the rest of my life”.

This book, published 8 years later, follows a diary format of 12 chapters from January to December.

The books read are discussed and interspersed with descriptions of the weather and wildlife of the month wherever Hill happens to be. There are plenty of musings and pithy comments on diverse subjects such as creative writing courses, would-be writers who don’t read books, books that have stood the test of time and those that have not, books left behind in holiday cottages, literary prizes, copyright, kindles, comics, children’s books and the experience of being attacked by trolls on the internet.

This is a very personal book, written after a lifetime of prolific reading and writing. Susan Hill having been a successful published author since the age of 18, has met with a large number of well-known people especially

'Independent Bookseller of the Year 2016’ 8 Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PX www.winstonebooks.co.uk Tel: 01935 816 128

in the literary world, some of whom are close friends, others acquaintances, others the results of chance meetings. But all the anecdotes add colour and interest to this conversational book. For such a prodigious reader there are surprising gaps in her reading, but she makes the point that her interest is in English literature of which her knowledge is very extensive.

The choice of title is intriguing. Virginia Woolf is an author Susan Hill has greatly admired from her youth, and in Woolf ’s novel ‘Jacob’s Room’, Jacob is viewed indirectly from the perspectives of others. The books people enjoy reflect their diverse interests and browsing their bookshelves can be fascinating, but how much do they tell us about that individual? They are after all only one facet of the person. But we do learn significantly more about the author, as she gives us her views on many books as well as glimpses into some of the events in her life and the people she has met.

Jacob’s Room is Full of Books is a charming, enjoyable read, rich in suggestions as to other books worth reading, so something of a bookworm’s delight.

There is a useful index of the books mentioned and the format means it can be dipped into as well as read from cover to cover. Published in time for the Christmas market, this is one that should be well-received by anyone who loves reading. sherborneliterarysociety.com

Get in the mood for Christmas with two Top Ten bestselling novelists Lulu Taylor and Karen Swan 7pm Monday 4th December

Lulu and Karen will be in-store discussing and reading from their new novels along with sharing ideas for Christmas presents

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Find out more about our exceptional training programme and the chance to make a real difference at a Prospective Volunteer Information Session on the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm. These are held at our centre (address below) We are keen to hear from anyone over 18 with time in the evenings and weekends. Call 01935 414015 and let us know when you are coming or email recruitment@yeovilsamaritans.org.uk

Tel: 01747 825288 Mobile: 07966 002927 www.fullstoptherapy.co.uk

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BRYAN C. COOPER LTD TRADITIONAL BUILDERS - Since 1968 -

A family run Sherborne business established for over 45 years Renovations, Extensions and Alterations, Patios, Boundary Walls and Fencing _________

Purpose-made Joinery, Internal and External Decorations, Bathrooms and Kitchens _________

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Tel: 01935 814946 124 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

www.samaritans.org

You could change someone’s life – maybe your own

Dog Training Classes in Sherborne Next courses start Saturday 6th January 2018 Private sessions also available The Pet Experience

Training & Behaviour Ltd Sarah Easterbrook CoPAS GoDT, IACP Member Fully qualified dog trainer & behaviourist with over 20 years experience Phone now on: 07769 705807 Or email: sarah@thepetexperience.co.uk www.the-pet-experience.co.uk

FENCING & GATES Supplied and erected by the

SHERBORNE & DISTRICT FENCING Co. Free Estimates No VAT

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The Manual and Electric Garage Door Specialists

Replacing an existing garage door? Planning to build a new home or garage?

Founded in 1991, Dorset Garage Doors are a family business covering Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. All our work is guaranteed and carried out by fully trained installation engineers • 10 year warranty on selected Garador products • Spares, Repairs and Installation

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www.dorsetgaragedoors.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 125

Suppliers and Manufacturers of quality Signage, Graphics and Embroidered Workwear

T: 01935 816767

info@swsigns-sherborne.co.uk www.swsigns-sherborne.co.uk

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Covering South Somerset & North Dorset Small Business Support

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The Weighbridge • High Street • Milborne Port • DT9 5DG www.mpfix.co.uk

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DAVE THURGOOD Painting & Decorating interior and exterior

07792 391368 NO VAT www.sherbornedecorators.com dave.thurgoodstfc@btinternet.com

126 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

Competitively Priced, High Quality Carpets, Vinyls, Woods & Rugs SHERBORNE SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Unit 16, Old Yarn Mills, Westbury, Sherborne, DT9 3RQ A family run business established in 1998, we promise a highly professional level of service Tel: 07733 101064 or 01935 817885 www.lsflooring.co.uk

Free No Obligation Quote

Gas and oil appliance servicing, repair and installation Local, friendly, qualified and accredited professional Please call Patrick O’Loughlin on 07590 121599, 01935 815613 or phelpsgas@yahoo.com

Steve Devoto

M: 07551 306827 E: help@thelocalboilercompany.com www.thelocalboilercompany.com

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Plu m b i n g & H e at i n g Lt d Local & reliable plumber. Gas Safe registered, fully insured • New build • Renovations • Boiler installations • Vented & unvented cylinder installations

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CAR SALES

Selection of quality used cars Please visit www.valeautoservices.co.uk for full listing 12 months parts and labour warranty + full service and MOT Competitive finance (subject to status) Drive away deals with little or no deposit (Cheap part exchanges to clear)

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For out of hours call Alistair Elder on 07734 955524 Bazeland Hill, Shaftesbury Rd, Henstridge, Somerset BA8 0TD www.valeautoservices.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 127

All in the Balance

Beginners French or Italian

Vintage watch repairs, restoration and sales

A Fun 8 Week Course in Sherborne starting January 2018 1.5 hours per week, ÂŁ15 per lesson Learn all you need to travel, eat and chat!

Amanda Donnelly 07739 972538 languagetutor19@gmail.com

Telephone Michael Elderton on:

01963 365749 / 07926 980381 or email: info@allinthebalance.co.uk website: allinthebalance.co.uk 1

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PAUSE FOR THOUGHT

W

Monsignor Robert Draper, Roman Catholic Church

hen I was a child the countdown to Christmas started weeks before the 25th December and that countdown was painstakingly recorded from weeks to days to hours! I know I didn’t enjoy the waiting in one sense, but it did heighten the excitement and make the celebration on Christmas Day all the more special. It’s not the same of course sitting in the dentist’s waiting room, or anticipating a letter from the hospital with the date for an operation.

There is no sense of excitement in such a situation normally, there may be a sense of dread, but there is certainly an awareness of life feeling different and having a different perspective on things. What do you do when you are waiting? Thumb through old magazines in the waiting room? Plan what will happen afterwards?

Feel unable to do anything other than think about the event that is to take place?

Is it a useless time I wonder? Simply minutes or hours that we “have to get through” and then we can get on with living? I suspect one of the reasons why we are so uncomfortable waiting – whether as a little child for Christmas or as a mature person for an appointment – is that we are not in charge of the situation.

It doesn’t depend on us, and no amount of desire or urging can make the clock move faster. In that sense we are helpless – we are dependent, we have to just wait.

Many years ago there was an advertisement for a credit card which promised to “Take the waiting out of wanting.” It is nice when we can have whatever we want whenever we want it, but I wonder what that does to us as people. We would all agree that patience is a virtue – which is something we value. We would all agree that anticipating something good heightens our appreciation of it. We would all think that having time to prepare for possible bad news (or good fortune) would help us to be ready for it. Whilst all of that is in some way simply “waiting”, those are actually very mature attitudes to take. Waiting can help us have a wider vision of the importance of something; can help us appreciate what actually matters to us in the long term. For a child it is quite understandable that waiting for Christmas seems unbearable – but when we encounter a grown-up who acts like a little child when they cannot have what they want exactly when they want it, we are likely to think of them as quite immature.

For Christians, Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas, is a time of waiting. Waiting for the coming, the coming of Christ as the child of Bethlehem, but ultimately for the coming of the kingdom of God. We cannot control that – we must wait – but waiting helps us appreciate who we are and what our destiny is, it gives us the time and opportunity to look at our life in the bigger picture. Waiting like that is about trust and hope and promise. Christmas will come and go, but we will go on waiting in hope as mature people. And eventually our waiting will be over and all will be well.

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 129

OUT AND ABOUT

C

David Birley, Sherborne Town Councillor

hristmas is a special time of the year and this is particularly so in Sherborne. So many of our shops have great window displays and lots of ideas for presents inside. It is also lovely to see Cheap Street lit up at night with the miniature Christmas trees. Talking of shopping, there is the Festive Shopping Day on Sunday 3rd December to look forward to. Our Chamber of Commerce does an excellent job in organising the event which is now a highlight of the Sherborne year. There are so many good stalls selling things that you really like, unlike Pack Monday! Also there are performances by our young and choirs hosted by Abbey 104, turning on the lights on the tree by the Conduit and lots more fun things.

There could not be a better place to celebrate Christmas than our glorious Abbey. I find that when you remember there was a cathedral here in the 8th century and look up at the magnificent fan vaulting, it puts things in perspective and reminds one of the enduring values of Christianity which of course began with the birth of Christ. When I was mayor last year it was my privilege to do a reading at the carol service. For this the Abbey is always packed which is only befitting our vicar Eric’s superb organisation of the service and Paul Ellis’s directorship of the choir.

It is also a time of the year for families to foregather. This year my wife, Jan, and I will celebrate our granddaughter, Lara’s first Christmas. Having had three boys Jan is especially delighted to have a girl in the family, indeed after every shopping trip in our town she returns with new clothes or toys, will Lara be spoilt? Certainly not!

As well as celebrating new arrivals in our lives it is also a time to remember family and friends who are no longer with us. We are very lucky in the voluntary services in our town. I would particularly like to mention the Good Neighbours team of which I am a volunteer driver. Be it a hospital or doctor’s appointment, visiting friends or a shopping expedition we are here to help.

Sherborne is such a caring community, there is so much help and assistance for all ages. People assume, wrongly in my opinion, that all residents are financially independent, yet the food banks in our supermarkets tell a different story and I urge you to support them.

Rosy, the four legged blonde in my life, has been so touched and flattered by your kind comments on her article in the September edition. People have been telling me about their dogs and some of their problems so in the spring she will be writing an agony column. If you know of any doggy problems please write in and tell us about them.

Looking forward to next year we will be running the Summer Festival event again on 16th June.

It is our intention that it will be even bigger and better than this year’s event with more music, more stalls to visit and more things to do. We would very much like to hear from people who would like to perform or help.

I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and New Year.

130 | Sherborne Times | December 2017

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