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Your local independent monthly journal 01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Issue 396 November 2016
The Visitor celebrating 33 years
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In Passing...
W
ITH my rainwater butt, composter, solar panels and catalytic converter, I like to think that I’m doing my bit for the environment. I collect newspapers, bottles and cans in separate boxes for recycling, and I re-use plastic carrier bags. But as I pack them at the checkout in Morrison’s I am conscious that every bag reveals something about me; that I sometimes patronise Sainsbury’s instead; that I once flew from Dublin airport before duty free was abolished; that I bought something large from Curry’s; that I shop at Harrods. Actually I don’t. The Harrods carrier bag was a gift from a rich neighbour who thought it was time I up-marketed my image. Nowadays, when we have little choice but to walk around like advertisement hoardings, what’s on the label counts for a lot, I’m told. Try buying a sweater that doesn’t have a brand name printed on or embroidered into it – or sportswear, or T-shirts, or training shoes, or luggage. Even wrist watches and umbrellas have fallen prey to the practice. The snobbish assumption seems to be that if it isn’t displaying a brand name it must have come from Primark or Poundstretcher. Never mind the quality, admire the label – even if it is ‘Calvin Klein’ blazoned across the front of underpants! The problem for those who think that such matters are important is that, by advertising their impeccable taste in this way, they inevitably tempt sheep to slaughter at the cash registers, and the label that was once a cachet of purchasing power becomes commonplace. Hence, I suspect, the emergence of so many so-called ‘designer labels’, sounding like obscure types of pasta or contagious diseases, that crowd the clothes shops in Bath. ‘Buy me; I’m exclusively different’ is the message that comes with the polo shirt that is, to all intents and purposes, much the same as any other polo shirt. There’s a lesson here for the chambers of trade in Visitorland’s beleaguered local
towns. Bruton discovered it some years ago and produced ‘Bruton – Love where you live’ fabric tote bags. And canny individual traders have discovered it and are producing their ‘own label’ goods for discerning purchasers. Wander round Martins in Castle Cary if you want to see some examples. Now is the time to take the message out on to the streets. Encourage every retailer in a town to use the same carrier bags promoting the town with a slick slogan. Sell pens and T-shirts and sweaters carrying the town’s name. Produce town labels for us to sew or stick over Calvin Klein or Cotton Traders or Armani. If we’ve got to display advertisements, let ours promote our local town, whether it be Cary, Wincanton, Sherborne, Somerton, Gillingham or wherever. Then I’ll save my Harrods bag for special occasions! NN.
Advertising Deadlines
December Issue published Thursday 24th November Deadline Friday 11th November
NOTE TO ADVERTISERS Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request. We cannot guarantee any specific page or position, but will always do our best to comply with clients’ wishes. ARTWORK Artwork & design by our production department and photographs taken by our photographers are the copyright of The Visitor Ltd.
Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should send uncompressed TIFs, JPEGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than size required, along with a hard copy print-out. For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.
The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.
PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BP
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Proprietor Helen Dunion Accounts, Editorial & Subscriptions Rachel Hancox Production Manager Jeff Farrow Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock © The Visitor Ltd. 2016
(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)
CONTENTS
Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to hirsuteness for a good cause
ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 66 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 10 BRUTON COUNTRY CENTRE, BRUTON, business focus - 7 CASTLE CARY - 11 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE - 40 CROSSWORD - 66 FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS - 29 GARDENING - 59 GLASTONBURY, business focus - 20 HOUSE & HOME - 45 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 22 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 23 MARTOCK, business focus - 26 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 58 MUSIC for the MONTH - 50 NOTICE BOARD - 21 PAPERCHASE - 63 PHONE-A-FIRM - 64 PUBS - 56 SHEPTON MALLET, business focus - 52 SOUTH PETHERTON, business focus - 43 STREET, business focus - 17 THEY SAY - 58 WINE & DINE - 55 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON
THE VISITOR November 2016 3
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4 THE VISITOR November 2016
Litter, Litter Everywhere
Sir, I am often contacted by local residents expressing their concerns over the amount of litter that continues to mar our streets, highways and recreation areas. These residents expect me, in my capacity as their county councillor, to ‘do something’ about getting it collected. Most people take a certain amount of pride in their environment and there is a strong feeling that our litter strewn highways present a poor image for those visiting the area and I am inclined to agree. I must confess here that I have a personal obsession with litter; the reason I have rarely ventured anywhere near a public beach in over 30 years. I only have to see one discarded cigarette end, crisp packet or drink can and I’m off. Contrary to popular belief this is not a class issue. I often find it difficult to hold my tongue, sometimes failing to do so and receiving verbal abuse for my pains, each time I pass an office building, pub or bar and see
smokers throwing their cigarettes on the ground. Who do they think is going to clean it up? I can well recall inspecting a five-star hotel on one occasion when awoken in the middle of the night by noise coming from a nearby pub. On looking out of the window I happened to see the night porter having a quick smoke, then dropping the discarded end on the ground in front of the entrance; a clear indication of a complete lack of regard, and not someone I would wish to employ. Littering is entirely anti-social, and the less responsible members of our society should be held to account for such behaviour; especially those who fly tip. Much as I might try my best to persuade the powers that be to collect the litter, it seems absurd that we should have to employ people, paid for by our tax payers’ money, to pick up the rubbish discarded by others with such gay abandon. No matter how frequently litter collection is carried out, in just a few days there will always be more. Surely
in times of austerity and government funding cuts there must be better things to spend our money on; education, transport and heath spring most readily to mind. There is the argument that the solution to the problem lies in education but I believe that this is a cop out. Everyone knows that it is wrong to litter. The problem is that people just do not care and there are few consequences. I am no fan of the ‘big brother’ society but perhaps the answer is dashboard cameras to capture evidence of items being flung out of car windows, and a willingness to prosecute. Better still, community service for the offenders – picking up litter. I have just returned from a visit to India, where litter remains an enormous problem. In an effort to address this there is now a 2% levy on all bills to fund their ‘clean India’ campaign. Perhaps if our government were to consider doing the same, the public outcry alone may be enough to change behaviour. I live in hope. As
Sad News
Sir, I have just picked up your magazine from my father’s house and felt I better put type to email. My dear old Dad passed away last month at the ripe old age of 87. Norman Leeks was a regular contributor to The Visitor over the years, he loved Wincanton and the surrounding areas as he was drawn to it by doing his/our family history. With the help of the late Puffy Bowden, who I believe was your local historian, they helped other people with their family trees and did a lot of work regarding a war time plane crash and finding war graves. Anyway all this is to say, Dad didn't stop writing to you because he ran out of words to write, he just ran out of time! Charles Leeks Cambridge The Visitor will miss Norman’s contributions and we send sincere condolences to his family - Ed.
Chalmers
&CO
Letters to the Editor
frustrating as it may be to see litter, any anger should be directed to the culprits, not hard working local authority employees who have enough to cope with. Linda Piggott-Vijeh Vicarage Hill Combe St. Nicholas
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On Friday 25 November Langport Monthly Market will take place on the town square from 10am until 2pm, with lots of lovely festive food produce and gifts to choose from!
Mentioned in
Dispatches
Langport & District History Society
Our Front Cover Movember
MOVEMBER IS AN annual charity event involving the growing of moustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues. These include depression, and various cancers, such as prostate and testicular cancer. The Movember Foundation runs the Movember charity event. By encouraging men to get involved, the aim is to increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments, and ultimately reduce the number of preventable deaths. Besides annual check-ups, the Movember Foundation encourages men to be aware of family history of cancer and to adopt a healthier lifestyle. If you would like to get involved and raise money for Movember 2016, visit Movember.com
A representative of the British Heart Foundation received a cheque for £776 raised at last year's charity concert by South Somerset Choral Society. SSCS's next performance for charity will be a Carol Concert at the Minster in Ilminster on Monday 19th December.
£53,000 raised for National and Local Charities
Thanks to everyone who supported the Sherborne Castle Classic and Supercar Show in July, donations of £53,000 have been made to the following charities: Cancer Research UK, £21,300; Yeovil Free Wheelers, £5,000; St Margaret’s Hospice, £5,000; Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, £4,000; Sherborne Area Youth and Community Centre, £10,000; Sherborne Rendezvous, £2,000; Future Roots, £2,000; Motor Neurone Disease Association, £1,700; Wincanton Community Venture, £2,000.
Presidents of the Show and Owners of the Sherborne Castle Estate Edward and Maria Wingfield Digby said: ‘We are thrilled that the Show held in July has been a huge success and is able to donate such an astonishing amount to charity from a one-day event. As Presidents it gives us enormous pleasure to host this event, which is not only unique in the South West but has evolved into an occasion that appeals to owners of an eclectic mix of treasured Classics in addition to fabulous and priceless Supercars. By attracting in excess of 10,000 visitors and having the focus on raising funds for Charity the Show exactly matches the ethos of the Castle Estate in being able to share its wonderful location and facilities with the public at large. This event goes from strength to strength and Sherborne Castle Estate is thrilled it will again be staged at this venue on 15th/16th July 2017, when the first two-day Show will take place.’
Dates for your diary
In preparation of the Christmas festivities, Langport’s Christmas Town Lights will be put up by the Town Council, Langport Area Business Group and other volunteers on Sunday 20th November.
The next meeting of the Society will take place on Monday 7 November at 7.30pm in Langport Library and will feature Kay Townsend on A History of the Dodgems. It is free to members (annual membership is £12): nonmembers are welcome, admission £2; refreshments available. Anyone interested in joining the Society should contact Sue Standen on 01458 273471 or email: suzannestanden471 @btinternet.com
Yeovil in Bloom wins gold yet again at South West in Bloom competition!
Yeovil in Bloom has struck gold once again in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) South West in Bloom competition. Representatives of the Yeovil in Bloom team were there to collect the gold award at the presentation which was held at the Somerset County Cricket Club in Taunton. Yeovil also received nine RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood awards with Birchfield School, The Hub, Kenmore Drive, Milford Allotments, West Abbey Care Home, Preston Primary School and Westfield Community Group receiving an outstanding award. Wyndham Community Group and the Vanessa Project also received Advancing awards. Elsewhere in the district, The CATCH (Community Action to Transform Cale Habitat) community group based in Wincanton was awarded an outstanding It’s Your Neighbourhood award and Milborne Port in Bloom was awarded gold in the In Bloom competition. Councillor David Recardo,
CHRISTMAS IS COMING! PLAN YOUR CHRISTMAS ADVERTISING EARLY Christmas Gifts Events Festive Dining Late Night Openings etc. Print dates for the Christmas run up ...
DECEMBER Print: Thursday 24th November Deadline: Friday 11th November CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR (JANUARY) Print: Thursday 15th December Deadline: Friday 2nd December
Tel: 01963 351256 6 THE VISITOR November 2016
Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk “ Your advert reaching 60,000 readers”
Flowers in the centre of Yeovil this summer.
Chairman of the Yeovil in Bloom Steering Group said: “Once again we are extremely pleased that we have been awarded gold and the nine It’s Your Neighbourhood awards represent the passionate community based groups around the town. “The competition isn’t just about floral displays. We have to demonstrate a commitment to environmental issues and community participation. Thanks must go to Yeovil Country Park, Preston C of E Primary School, the Hub, Kenmore Drive and the
shops in Princes Street who made up our tour. We would not win gold without showcasing these groups. “We must thank the people of Yeovil who really get behind Yeovil in Bloom each year, endorsing what we do and supporting the floral displays on show. We receive many kind correspondences of praise through-out the year.” Speaking about community participation, Lesley Jelleyman, Yeovil in Bloom Promotions Officer added, “Community
participation makes up 25% of the overall points for the South West in Bloom competition, so it is important that we can demonstrate community involvement all-year round. There is increasing evidence to show that green spaces have a tremendous positive impact on people’s health and wellbeing, so activities such as gardening and community based projects are excellent ways for relaxation and mental stimulation. “We know there are many community groups who could or would like to take part in some form of project to help either people or a local area, so please get in contact with me and let’s make Yeovil even more bloomin marvellous.” If you would like to form a community group or if you are already part of a community group and you would like to get involved in projects to help towards Yeovil in Bloom, please contact Lesley Jelleyman with ideas and suggestions on how you can contribute on 01935 462837 or email lesley.jelleyman @southsomerset.gov.uk The Yeovil in Bloom initiative is managed and funded by Yeovil Town Council, and delivered with the support of South Somerset District Council.
Sherborne Museum
Finds Day: Saturday November 5th 11am-2pm. Drop in and meet County Finds Liaison Officer, Ciorstaidth Trevarthen, who will be on hand to identify all those mysterious objects that people pic k up w h ile d o g - w a l k i n g , rummaging in the loft, digging the garden - or even while responsibly using a metaldetector. There will also be handling items and archaeologybased activities for children. Free family event, donations welcomed.
Home Farm Trust Christmas Fair in Wincanton
The 2016 HFT Christmas Fair takes place on 19th November in the Wincanton Memorial Hall, from10am until 1.30pm. Entry is 50p and the fair is on course to be the best ever. The stalls are all run by volunteers who pride themselves on the value of their wares, all of which are donated by well-wishers. Great bargains for shoppers on: Cakes, Christmas Cards, Books, Trash & Treasures, Children’s Basement, Christmas Things, Garden Plants, Bag Lady, Jewellery, Second Chance Wardrobe, Tombola, Art Stall, Kitchen Dresser, Refreshments, Raffle.
Under New Ownership ...
BRUTON COUNTRY CENTRE
BRUTON Country Centre in Bruton is now under the ownership of Demetri Benfield and partner Dawn Croxson. Bruton Country Centre is an extremely useful shop stocking a diverse range of goods. It is well known for its wide range of pet food. Leading brands currently stocked include Burns, Skinners and Natural Life. These ranges will be increased. Dried dog and cat food can also be bought loose for those wanting smaller quantities, and frozen food is also available. Feeds for poultry, sheep, goats and horses are also stocked plus fish food and wild bird seeds. There is a wide range of pet accessories such as beds, leads, bowls, worming products etc. and, with Christmas in mind, pet stockings and advent calendars! The Centre offers a comprehensive range of hardware / DIY products such as screws, paints, kitchen-cleaning products, small electrical items (such as toasters), a variety of light bulbs and more!
With winter looming, and the colder weather coming, it is worth bearing in mind that they sell bottled gas, logs, coal and charcoal, plus log baskets and fireside accessories. Country clothing items such as wellies and fleeces are stocked. This range will also be expanded in due course. Gardening sundries such as strimmer lines, gardening gloves, seeds etc. can also be found within this Aladdin’s cave, together with a nice selection of plants. Currently on sale are winter bedding, cyclamens and colourful winter hanging baskets. Next month, Christmas trees, holly and pot plants will be available for the festive season. In the forthcoming spring and the new gardening season the range of plants will greatly increase. Bruton Country Centre is situated at the west end of Bruton and has ample free parking outside the door. Opening times currently are Tuesday 8.30am – 5pm; Wednesday 8.30am – 12noon and 2pm – 6pm; Thursday 8.30am – 1pm;
Friday 8.30 – 12noon and 2pm – 5pm; Saturday 8.30am – 1pm; and Sunday 10am – 12noon. Demetri and Dawn look forward to welcoming customers old and new. Demetri and Dawn may be familiar faces to some readers as they have a separate business – Repxotics, a specialist pet shop in Shepton Mallet, which they will continue to run.
Wisteria Yard, West End, BRUTON, BA10 0AR Enquiries: 01749 812743 • www.brutoncountrycentre.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2016 7
Mentioned in
Dispatches The East Somerset Friends of HFT, the charity that works for the learning disabled, are thrilled to have been awarded the 2016 Jacqui Gwilliam Award for Outstanding Fundraising Contribution.
Ropewalkers
Ropewalkers brings together new work by artists Jo Ball, Andy Parker and Simon Whetham made in response to the architecture, history and materials of Dawe’s Twineworks Museum and social history project. A monument to working class history Dawe’s is thought to be the only rural twineworks remaining in England with all its machinery, the last example of what was the most important industry in South Somerset for over 500 years. By placing art at the heart of the museum visitors are encouraged to see the past with new eyes, revealing narratives that are hidden in the machinery, archives and soil surrounding the Twineworks. The exhibition takes place across two venues, OSR Project
Space and Dawe’s Twineworks (West Coker), and includes an immersive sound work by Simon Whetham entitled Trace Evidence, performance and sculpture by Andy Parker that weaves together personal histories with that of William Dampier and the Twineworks, and Jo Ball’s project Patches of Blue Sky that re-visits the tradition of growing flax to make linen twine. Exhibition at OSR Project Space, Church Street, West Coker and Dawe’s Twineworks, High Street, West Coker 15 October 5 November 2016. Thursday Saturday 11am - 5pm (or by appointment).
High Ham Parish History Exhibition
An exhibition of old photographs and memorabilia is to be held in High Ham Memorial Hall. The photographs, of High Ham, Low Ham and Henley, include historic snapshots of the school, charabanc outings, milking by hand, farming, village shops, club days, the First and Second World War (including local men of the Somerset Yeomanry on their horses from 1914), drawings of the searchlight in Low Ham in WWII and the turning on of electricity in 1953. The exhibition consists of personal photos from over 50 members of the local community and will take place from 4th - 6th November. On Friday 4th from
A Welcome Award
High Ham Parish History Exhibition: Queueing for the doctor’s surgery which was held in the pub (1960s). The pub, whilst known locally as Maisie’s, is the King’s Head, High Ham.
6-8pm there will be a reception and the launch of the Dennis David Award for Community Achievement in the Parish. Exhibition hours on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th are 11am-5pm. Refreshments are available all weekend. The book ‘A Somerset Parish 1895-1965: Memories of village life in High Ham, Low Ham and Henley’ will be on sale See www.communityhistory. btck.co.uk for more information.
Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Green Down Nature Reserve, near Somerton, supports one of the largest populations of the Large Blue butterfly in Europe and on 12th October they received a £500 Wessex Watermark Award from Wessex Water’s Senior Ecologist Mark Doughty. The Watermark Award provides funds for environmental projects within the Wessex Water area. Now in its twenty-third year, it has supported over 900 environmental initiatives. Organised by The Conservation Foundation, all projects are judged by a panel chaired by its President - David Bellamy. The Watermark Award will help the Trust continue its programme of monitoring, researching and management advice on the East Polden hills which the Large Blue have colonised, since their successful re-introduction in 1992 to the Trust’s Green Down Nature Reserve.
Mere Literary Festival
Mere Literary Festival celebrated their 20th anniversary on 16th October with a cake and the publication of a book called
High Ham Parish History Exhibition: High Ham School (1890s).
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Merely A Festival, compiled by Sue Evans and Adrienne Howell, who started the festival 20 years ago.
A Samaritan Moving On
They say that moving home is one of the most stressful things that a person can do. Any normal person that is! Clearly this is not the case for former Taunton &
Somerset Samaritans Director, Betty Carter, who at the ripe old age of 95 has decided to call it a day manning the phones at the branch office in Wood Street, as she is emigrating to Brisbane, Australia to be with her son Nick and his family. Loved by everyone, and known for her formidable energy and enthusiasm, Betty has been one
of the driving forces at Samaritans since joining the organisation in 1980. As friends and colleagues gathered in Trull to wish her well, they took the opportunity to have a look back at some of Betty’s key milestones, including overseeing the renovation of the current premises, influencing national policy, fund raising efforts and a visit to 10 Downing Street. In speaking of the valuable contribution that Betty has made to the work of Samaritans, current Director, Liz Flower, said, ‘Betty has been such an incredible example to so many people. Despite her advancing years she has always embraced the many changes we have undergone,
constantly adapting to our modern way of life. As we approach 50 years of supporting vulnerable people in this area, as our branch historian Betty has left us with a fine record of the many things we have achieved, many of which would not have happened without her.’ Local councillor, Linda Vijeh, who is herself a Samaritan, added, ‘Betty is one of those rare people who mange to bridge the gap between the generations. I have benefited hugely from knowing her. What a lady she is, in every sense of the word.’ In summing up her own time as a Samaritan, Betty said ‘I have gained far more from being a Samaritan than I have ever given.’
Friends and colleagues gathered to wish former Taunton & Somerset Samaritans Director, Betty Carter bon voyage, as she is emigrating to Brisbane, Australia.
THE VISITOR November 2016 9
Antiques, Vintage & Collecting
Rare set of Beatles autographs up for sale
A very collectable set of Beatles autographs are to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne. They were discovered by the RSPCA (Somerset) amongst a box of vinyl records, on a programme, c.1964, entitled ‘Life with the Beatles’, which includes information about the band members. The front of the programme has been signed in ink by the four members of the band, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, George Harrison and Paul McCartney. Lawrences Auctioneer Simon Jones said, ‘Complete sets of Beatles signatures are highly
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sought after by collectors and they should attract a huge amount of interest’. They will be included in Lawrences Collectors and Sporting Sale on Friday 18th November, and are expected to make £1000 - £2000 in auction. For further information about this sale please contact Simon Jones on 01460 73041.
Antiques Fairs
•
Chasty Cottage Antiques
•
Sunday 6 th November SALISBURY RACECOURSE, SP2 8PN *Antique / Flea Market *Indoor / Outside Saturday 26 th November Digby Hall, Hound Street Next to Library SHERBORNE, DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1 01963 370986 www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk
Meadow Fairs ANTIQUES COLLECTABLES & FLEA MARKET
Saturday 19th November
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10 THE VISITOR November 2016
Mark Hamblin of John Hamblin Yeovil - alongside furniture restoration. Also undertaken are commissions for bespoke furniture, including modern, such as bookcases and cupboards.
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19c Primitive School, oil on canvas study of a heavy horse by W. Davis 1843. Available from Quillon House Antiques of Bruton.
Quillon House Antiques 16 H IGH S TREET , B RU TON 01749 812269
17 th / 18 th C. Oak and Country Furniture
Arms & Armoury Equestrian Paintings Valuations Undertaken Antiques Purchased
Carved oak armourial coat of arms
Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm
160 YEARS AGO the railway reached Castle Cary. Or to be accurate, almost reached! In 1845 the Wilts, Somerset and Weymouth Railway had received parliamentary consent to
construct a line from the Great Western Railway’s London to Bristol main line near Chippenham to the important Dorset port, and on 1st September 1856 the stretch from
Frome to Yeovil was opened. The company, by this time absorbed by the Great Western, provided a small station a country mile from Cary in the valley below Ansford, next to the level crossing
which took the rails across the coach road from Cary to Shepton Mallet and Bath. Prior to the opening a new road, appropriately named New Road and now called Station Road, was constructed across the fields south of Ansford from what is now the top of Torbay Road to
MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd
Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary BA7 7BH Tel: 01963 351052
Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Castle Cary’s busy railway station is a mile from the town centre, in the fields below Ansford.
Personal and professional service
Celebrating 22 Years in Castle Cary
After 54 years in the wine trade, Peter Law of W INE W IZZARD (The Cary Vintner) is taking a back seat to concentrate more on overseas buying and national accounts through one of his associated companies. His much more photogenic co-director Linda Fogg (pictured) is taking over the day to day running of the shop after 30 years tutelage in wine by Peter. A selection of W INE W IZZARD ’ S wines is now available at Church Bridge Stores (the new Post Office) in Bruton.
THE VISITOR November 2016 11
join realigned routes from Ansford to Clanville and Shepton and to cross the railway on a bridge west of the station. The line was single track, built to Brunel’s broad gauge, but in 1874 it was converted to the standard gauge and in 1880 it was doubled, but it wasn’t until the end of the 19th century when the GWR was planning its new main line link between Castle Cary and Taunton that the old road and level crossing were finally abandoned. Its route still exists as a public right-of-way footpath and provides the start of a
pleasant walk into Ansford and Cary. Perhaps surprisingly, the fields between the railway bridge and the town’s edge have seen little development since the road was built, but this could be about to change. In recent years the district council’s planners have acknowledged that more homes and jobs will be needed in the years ahead to cater for the town’s growing population, and their preferred option for development is land on both sides of Station Road. A number of planning applications have been
K. WATSON Contractors
Haulage Tar Surfacing Concreting Sand & Stone Supplies also Digger & Lorry Hire 9 Millbrook Gardens Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7EF Tel: 01963 350691 Mobile (Wally): 07989 580872
JOHNSONS PITHERS YARD CASTLE CARY
FABRIC SALE
Readers with long memories will recall that these houses on Station Road were built in the late 1980s on the site of Squibbs Garage and car showroom.
R. Smith & Sons AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTORS For all Agricultural Work including: Grass, Maize & Whole Crop Silaging Hedge Trimming • Ploughing • Ditching Mini Excavators for: Landscaping, Fencing, Drainage Work etc.
9.30am – 3.30pm
Tel: 01963 351203 or 01749 812510
Fresh Materials Weekly
Offices at: Castle Cary, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury and Cheddar
Closed Mondays 01963 351120
12 THE VISITOR November 2016
Old Bank House, High Street, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7AW Tel: 01963 350888 • Fax: 01963 351107 Email: robin@bgw-solicitors.co.uk • www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk
submitted, and appeals against the council’s refusal to grant outline permission for two proposals are being heard by the Planning Inspectorate at a public inquiry at the time of writing in early October. These proposals would provide up to 125 dwellings on one side of the road and up to 75 on the other. Any large development is bound to be controversial but if the town doesn’t grow it will stagnate. It has certainly grown in the 35 years I have known it, and much of that growth has been achieved without too much harm being done to its countryside setting or its core of historic buildings. Housebuilding in the 1970s and 80s effectively transformed Ansford into a suburb of Cary although the town was already spreading tentacles of development towards the village much earlier in the last century. Population growth spells good news for the shop-owners
and the town’s many organisations although the increasing volume of traffic it generates could be bad news for the already-congested town centre, the narrow approach roads and the A371. But development on Station Road, if well planned, is unlikely to damage the town’s character and its appeal to tourists. And it will certainly bring the town closer to its station. The stretch of Station Road from the top of Torbay Road to Woodcock Street and the town centre has seen some major changes. The tennis courts belonging to Castle Cary Constitutional Club were sold for housing development around 30 years ago, and now the club itself has closed and outline planning permission has been granted to build eight dwellings on the site.
On Station Road the site of the former Two Swans pub, which closed almost a decade ago, is now being filled with housing.
ANYTIME LOCKS
24-Hour Locksmith Key Cutting and Boarding Up MOBILE 07709 433922 PHONE 01963 359516
WHITE HART • CASTLE CARY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION MENU 28th November – 23rd December
BOOK NOW FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY 2 Courses £16.95 3 Courses £19.95 Buffet Menus Upon Request
BOOK BY Friday 11th November TO GET 3 COURSES FOR THE PRICE OF 2 COURSES Tel: 01963 350255
Web: whitehartcastlecary.co.uk Email: whitehartcary@hotmail.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2016 13
Bishop’s electrical store, one of the Needful Things furnishings shops and a recently-opened art gallery and wine bar occupy a picturesque corner of the High Street.
CHA RL
HILL L
D ITE IM
IE
Quality Butcher & Pie Maker
Round House Farm Shop Bailey Hill, Castle Cary
01963 350260 Open Monday - Saturday
Home-made speciality pies and sausages, Wiltshire cure hams, quality meat, poultry and game.
Readers with long memories will recall Squibbs Garage and car showroom that had occupied part of the extensive site of a former brickworks at the junction with Victoria Road since 1906 or thereabouts. After the business closed in 1986 the site was filled with houses and named Victoria Court. The Squibb family were also landlords of the Heart and Compasses pub on the opposite side of Station Road from 1894 until 1952. This friendly little beerhouse was opened in 1872, renamed the Two Swans sometime in the late 1990s and closed down almost a decade ago. Currently the site is being filled with more housing.
We wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
ORDERS WELCOMED
HIGH QUALITY PICTURE FRAMING & GALLERY Over 35 years experience – Drymounting & laminating Tapestries stretched – picture restoration Conservation frames – mirrors – glass cut Watches – watch batteries and straps
Unique range of teak root sculptures
Facing the Woodcock Street entrance to the town centre is Cary’s principal inn, the thatched George Hotel. Although the datestone on one wall shows 1673, parts of the building are thought to be considerably older. The George and the Market House opposite, built in 1855 but looking older, must surely be among the town’s most photographed buildings. If you’re in need of sustenance after exploring Station Road you’ll find the town is wellprovided with cafés, restaurants, wine bars and three other pubs as well as the George. The Place coffee shop has a prominent presence on the Market Place, and near the top of High Street the
Martins of Castle Cary Market Place, Castle Cary Tel: 01963 350208
Delicatessen • Grocer • Off Licence Open: 8.15am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday
Specialising in Food from the West Country The
Curious Lighting
01963 359050 • studio13-online.co.uk
14 THE VISITOR November 2016
CLOCK SHOP
A. D. FORSTER The Pitching, Market Place Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7AL
Mukul Goyal – chrome figures/gadgets ... an ideal quirky gift for the man in your life
STUDIO 13 • THE TRIANGLE CASTLE CARY • BA7 7BD
long-established Bakehouse coffee shop and restaurant is a popular venue for shoppers. Opposite is the recently-opened Home café with plenty of vegetarian options, and at the bottom of Fore Street the tea room in Denela’s bakery provides hot drinks and tempting cakes for shoppers in need of a sitdown. The mention of shoppers reminds me that I’ve always sworn that I would never mention Christmas shopping until December, but having just got home from my early October wander round Castle Cary I’m prepared to break my resolve this year. Cary is an ideal town to scour for gifts for any occasion – even Christmas! As well as the traditional market town traders such as the baker, grocer, greengrocer, pie-maker, ironmonger and suchlike, the town also has dealers in art, antiques, appliances, clocks, flowers, footwear, gifts, ladieswear, pharmaceuticals, wines and goodness knows what else. It is fortunate in still having an independent bookshop which stocks an enormous range of new and second-hand titles and which welcomes browsers. Another browser’s paradise is Needful Things which occupies three shops on the High Street, filled with a vast selection of home accessories, decorations, gifts, ladies fashions, fabrics and soft furnishings. Next door to one of its shops is Bishop’s electrical store which offers not only good deals on televisions and
01963 359100 www.castlecaryclockshop.co.uk Antique Clocks Bought ~ Sold ~ Restored
OPENING HOURS Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm
WE ARE CLOSING
From December 2016 please ring
07803 095208
other home entertainment equipment but also good advice and personal service. In truth I saw so many Christmas gift ideas that this
article could have ended up as no more than a long list – and even then I would probably have failed to mention something special. Instead, you must take a close
look at the advertisements in this month’s issue and, better still, go to Castle Cary and spend some
hours wandering round the shops of this growing town. Roger Richards.
Castle Cary Post Office Cards, Stationery, Diaries, Calendars, Soft Toys Medici, Ling, Caspari, Woodmansterne, Noel Tatt and many more Christmas Cards & Boxes Lamy Pens
Euros & Dollars on Site: all other currency next day Passport Checking Top-Ups Bill Payment - Car Tax - Post Office Homephone - etc.
Bailey Hill, Castle Cary. Tel: (01963) 350237
Although the datestone on the wall of the George Hotel shows 1673, parts of the building are thought to be considerably older.
KEVAN DAVIS
“Dedicated to excellence in Animal Care for over 100 Years”
24 Hour Emergency Service provided by our own staff CASTLE CARY 01963 350307
Plumbing & Heating Ltd
Reg. No. 177361
Fulford House, Torbay Road, Castle Cary, BA7 7DT
www.delawarevets.co.uk • info@delawarevets.co.uk
4 Fairview Terrace, Castle Cary Telephone: 07976 741029
The George Hotel Welcome to ...
HOTEL • RESTAURANT • BAR Market Place, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7AH Christmas Menu
Tel: 01963 350761 • Email: contact@thegeorgehotelcastlecary.co.uk
Available Lunch and Dinner from 1st to 23rd December
Chestnut, parsnip and apple soup Smoked cheddar fritter with fig relish Chicken liver parfait, rosemary bread crisp, sultana and apple chutney Smoked trout mousse, horseradish cream and oat parmesan cakes Pan fried pigeon breast, pearl barley risotto and peashoots Roast turkey with all the usual trimmings Beef bourguignon and thyme dumplings Baked salmon, bubble and squeak cake and orange vermouth sauce Smoked nut roast with smoked cheddar cheese and roast potatoes Goats cheese and sweet red onion tart, new potatoes and salad Duck 2 ways – pan fried duck breast, confit leg terrine, dauphinoise, cherry Jus All main courses will be served with fresh vegetables
Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Cinnamon panna cotta, ginger biscuits and mulled berries Trio of chocolate – white chocolate mousse, dark chocolate brownie, milk chocolate roulade Black plum and cherry clafoutis with Christmas spiced ice cream 2 Course £15.95 • 3 Course £21.95
New Year’s Eve 3 Course Menu
Brie and goats cheese terrine, fruit salsa and toast Cured lemon and orange gravadlax with lime and tequila sorbet Duck liver parfait with Melba toast Braised beef steak, herb potato cake and steamed local vegetables Grilled fried hake, dauphinoise and pan fried vegetables with prawn veloute Pan fried chicken breast filled with sun blush tomatoes, mozzarella and basil on a garlic pomme puree with roasted vegetables Spinach and halloumi naan parcel with pasta rice and korma sauce Trio of gin and tonic sorbet ~ gin, tonic and cucumber Chocolate pavlova Prosecco jelly and peach ice cream Coffee with kirsch & dark chocolate button £29.95 per head
New Year’s Eve Gourmet 7 Course Menu
In our newly refurbished restaurant with seating available from 7.30
Brie and goats cheese terrine, fruit salsa and walnut and truffle toast Cured lemon and orange gravadlax with lime and tequila sorbet
Grilled 5oz fillet of beef, jenga chips and périgourdine truffle sauce Grilled halibut, pasta rice, lemon jelly with watercress puree
Trio of gin and tonic sorbet ~ gin, tonic and cucumber Chocolate pavlova
Coffee with white chocolate truffles £74.95 per head
LIVE MUSIC & CHRISTMAS DINNER Saturday 3rd, 10th and 17th December
Available for intimate table for 2, or for groups of up to 30
THE VISITOR November 2016 15
Business Update
This summer Castle Cary saw the opening of a new eaterie, Home (as their window art tells us, 'we wanted to open a restaurant that serves the kind of food we eat at home'). The 'we' are food writer Fiona Mattesini and her husband Paul. The food is exclusively vegetarian – with gluten free baking, fresh juicing and a serious sideline in coffee thanks to Bean Shot, the award-winning
roasters from Bruton. Veggie they may be but as Fiona says ‘we want the food to be seen as simply good, fresh food – the kind of dishes that meat eaters would happily eat too; flavour and seasonality are key.’ Home is open for breakfast and lunch from 9am – 3pm Tuesday to Saturday. @HomeCastleCary.
Shop ‘til you drop in Castle Cary!
Castle Cary at Christmas has a special atmosphere. The weekly Tuesday street market sells local produce and gifts in the centre of
‘HOME’ A new café for Castle Cary
Great food that just happens to be vegetarian fresh juicing award winning coffee a warm welcome
town. Don’t miss Switch On Saturday, 3rd December at 4pm when the Christmas street lights will be switched on. Food will be available from the many eateries, shop in Cary’s independent shops and listen to music on the cobbles in front of the Market House. On Thursday 15th December from 5.30pm it’s Castle Cary’s Big Christmas. The shops will stay open until 9pm, there’ll be market stalls, Father Christmas, music, Morris Men and much more. Castle Cary has it all for your Christmas shopping experience. You will be very welcome.
Heal and Sole Holistics, Castle Cary
Equine Reiki, an effective and trusted complimentary therapy for the overall health and well-
being of your horse, is now available from Kevin Stevens at Heal and Sole Holistics. Reiki is a non-invasive, painless and stress free therapy which is totally safe for horses. It involves a specially trained practitioner gently placing their hands on or near the body to restore the energy flow and re-balance the energy centres, thus stimulating the horse’s natural healing ability. Reiki can enable the healing of physical illness and injury as well as problems on an emotional level. It is a powerful tool for behavioural issues and emotional healing following trauma, abuse, neglect, fear and trust issues. For more inf o r m a t io n, p l e a se r i n g t o discuss your requirements or visit the website.
Say you saw it in The Visitor
Pithers Yard, 7 High Street
CASTLE CARY
Open Tuesday – Saturday Find our menu and socialise with us ... @homecastlecary (Facebook / Tw) Open for BREAKFAST & LUNCH 9am – 3pm
RICH’S AUTO SERVICES ◆ Servicing and repairs on all makes of car ◆ MOTs by appointment TYRES — EXHAUSTS — BATTERIES OPEN: MONday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday mornings by appointment
Unit 4, Torbay Road Trading Estate Torbay Road, CASTLE CARY, BA7 7DT
DAVE MARSH HARDWARE LTD The really useful shop! Garden – D.I.Y. – Plumbing & More
★ Key Cutting ★ Dulux Paint Mixing Services ★ Christmas Lights ★ Tree Stands
Suppliers and Fireside Accessories LOTS OF CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS
Fore Street, Castle Cary • 01963 350316 Also Incorporating
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS ...
Everything for the Cook and Kitchen ★ Stellar ★ Brabantia ★ Judge
01963 359494
16 THE VISITOR November 2016
01963 350568
STREET
Jaywalk Guitars
Jaywalk Guitars is Somerset's premier guitar shop. With well over 300 guitars of all types in stock, they offer quality products to suit beginners all the way up to professionals. A fantastic range including Fender, Martin, Gretsch, Tanglewood, Blackstar, Sigma and many more top brands attracts people from across the county and beyond. The shop on the High Street in Street also stocks amplifiers, pickups, accessories, a good selection of ukuleles and also includes a demo room to try out instruments. All this backed up by expert knowledge and advice from gigging musicians makes Jaywalk Guitars the go to destination for all your guitar needs.
College Experience Days Help Pupils Make the Right Choice
Choosing what and where to study after GCSEs is an important decision that can affect a young person’s future success. Strode College in Street has a track record of outstanding sixth form education that maximises student potential. With an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted and the best and most consistent student progress in Somerset over the last three years (League Tables 2013-2015), Strode’s approach to learning is the right choice for many young people. Year 11 pupils have the chance to try the courses they are interested in ahead of starting
college next year, by attending one of Strode’s College Experience Days in November or December. They can choose from a wide choice of A Levels and vocational courses, find out about college life and facilities and meet other students who are planning to study at Strode next year. Strode students benefit from teaching, support, facilities, educational and social activities tailored to meet the needs of 1618 years olds. This combination of outstanding, specialist teaching and support leads to outstanding outcomes and consistently excellent results for Strode’s students. And because Strode has more students than school sixth forms, they can provide more opportunities to inspire and enhance learning and college life. To help you make the right choice about what next after GCSEs you will need good advice. Ofsted says that at Strode students “receive outstanding information and advice which enables them to make wellinformed choices before they start college and during their study programme”. To book onto a Strode College experience day online, visit the college website: www.strodecollege.ac.uk
The benefits for students at Strode College are both educational and social.
Deadline for the December issue is Friday 11th November Call: 01963 351256 to book your advertisement
THE VISITOR November 2016 17
STREET business focus We Let You Move
We Let You Move, Property Management and Lettings, has been established for ten years. Owned and run by Louisa Stockley, the business is situated in first floor premises in the High Street. Being an independent, Louisa prides herself on a personal service – matching each client with the right property for them. The office’s quirky décor
Exciting new ranges from Panache at Oomph and Lift. An extensive range of bras to suit all, plus an expert fitting service.
reflects this individuality: the art on show includes collages of various keys and pictures of numerous front doors – many of which have been provided by satisfied customers! The company offers straight forward letting, guaranteed rent collection, and a property management service is also available. The properties are regularly checked, which is of benefit to both landlord and tenant, with maintenance issues dealt with. Affiliated to Sarah Doble Associates, legal back-up is on hand if required. Louisa has a diverse selection of properties on her books, from a 1 bedroomed flat through to a 5 bedroomed farmhouse. Give her a call or visit the office to discuss your requirements. Further information is available on the website or facebook page.
GRAND RE-OPENING
and
Lingerie
After Refurbishment
Monday 14th November ........................
CALL IN and see our wonderful
NEW Autumn / Winter Collection
From ... Panache
~ Charnos ~ Lepel ... and many more
Professional Fitting Service Available
Sports Bras ~ Mastectomy Bras ~ Girls First Bras Miracle Suit Shape Wear and NEW IN Fashion Form Bra accessories LOYALTY CARDS AVAILABLE
Vestry Court, Vestry Road, STREET
01458 898952 • Turn by William Hill - opposite Living Homes
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND LETTINGS
Sometimes fashion goes full circle! Visit the Clarks Shoe Museum in Street and see their wonderful display of footwear through the ages.
LETTINGS – LETTINGS – LETTINGS Experienced, efficient, established Active & resourceful We take care of your property as if it’s our own Rent guarantee We go the extra mile
Due to demand we are seeking new landlords & properties FOR A FREE MARKET APPRAISAL call in person at 1st Floor • 143a High Street • STREET • BA16 0EX ... or telephone 01458 443308 info@weletyoumove.com • www.weletyoumove.com
18 THE VISITOR November 2016
The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Mendip Mobility
This time of year is very popular for rise and recline chairs. Mendip Mobility has an extensive choice – British made with a 5 year warranty. With Christmas approaching there are lots of practical gifts/stocking fillers in store, including magnifying glasses, traditional and cheery walking sticks, weather proof covers for scooters and much more. Mendip Mobility offers the Motability Scheme, which provides a unique leasing package designed for the benefit of disabled people. Over the past 35 years Motability has helped over 3 million disabled people get mobile by exchanging their mobility allowance for a brand-new car, scooter or powered wheelchair. To find out more do call in. Mendip Mobility also offer a home visit service, ensuring you have the right product to suit your needs.
A full range of beauty treatments is also available upstairs at the salon including waxing, tanning, massage, pedicures etc. The Beauty treatment on promotion this month is the very popular one hour Dermalogica facial, with 10% off. To take advantage of these super offers just mention The Visitor
STREET
Magazine. Look your best this autumn with a visit to Mane Connections situated on Street’s
Mane Connections HAIR & BEAUTY SALON
NIGEL
NOVEMBER OFFERS (End 30th November) 10% OFF ... All Appointments with our new stylist – NIGEL 10% OFF ... Dermalogica 1 Hour Facials (please mention advert with above offer)
123 High Street, STREET, BA16 0EX 01458 446800
WE HAVE MOVED! Crispin Crafts & Haberdashery A family run business for 30 years
Fabric Crafts Haberdashery Knitting Yarns Ribbons Christmas Fabric
Mane Connections
Mane Connections Hair and Beauty Salon is owned and run by experienced hairdresser Lyn Nolan. This month she welcomes Nigel to her team – and as an introductory offer, there will be a 10% discount throughout November for clients booked with him.
High Street. Call in for full list of treatments. Late night opening until 7pm on Thursdays.
Crispin Crafts have a lovely selection of ribbons, Christmas fabrics and gift ideas. They now also offer gift vouchers - call in and see their full range.
Gift Vouchers
CHRISTMAS GIFTS inc. Sewing Boxes Knitting Bags, Craft Kits and more ... Call in and see our extensive range
8 Farm Road, Street, Somerset, BA16 0BJ
NOW Opposite The Crispin Hall – towards Clarks Village AT Tel: 01458 447655 • Email: crispincrafts@outlook.com
RELAX in COMFORT ...
Mendip with
Mobility
“Great gear to be getting on with”
We have a comprehensive range of
British Made Rise and Recline Chairs with 5 Year Guarantees Adjustable Beds Bath Lifts Scooters and Wheelchairs for Sale & Hire Everyday Living Aids
We have a lot of Useful Christmas Gifts Magnifying Glasses Walking Sticks Blue Badge Holders Weather Proof Covers And More Call in to our showrooms where our knowledgeable and helpful staff will be pleased to advise!
146 High Street, STREET, BA16 0ER 01458 448355 20 Westway, FROME, BA11 1BS 01373 464373 www.mendipmobility.co.uk
THE VISITOR November 2016 19
STREET
Inside Street Cellular - where you can get a wide range of mobile phones and services such as unlocking. Expert advice always on hand. Find them in the Bayliss Centre with free parking outside the door.
Floorcrafts
If you are looking for a new carpet or rug, look no further than Floorcrafts of Street. A family run business with 30 years of experience, you can be sure of a professional and friendly service, and a great choice at sensible prices. If the area for which you require your carpet takes a lot of traffic, why not consider stain
resistant or bleach cleanable carpet? Proprietor Ken will be pleased to advise on the best flooring for your requirements. There is always a good choice of rugs in stock including runners, traditional rugs and childrens novelty rugs. Remnants are also on sale. Call in today - free parking outside the door in the Bayliss Centre, Street. Established
Bedroom or Bathroom ... 30 Years Lounge or Conservatory we have the flooring you require
Excellent Choice • Prompt Service Carpets • Vinyls • Laminates • Natural Flooring Good choice of Rugs • Remnants
★ Bleach Cleanable & Stain Resistant Carpet available ★ PLANNING – MEASURING – FITTING
A family run business established over 30 years. Proprietors: Janet & Ken Burgess
Free Parking outside the door
4 Bayliss Centre, High Street, STREET Telephone: 01458 447950
MOBILE PHONE SPECIALISTS Est. 1990
Unlocking & Data Recovery Repairs on Phones, Tablets, etc. New & Used Handsets PAY MONTHLY Unlocked Handsets PAY AS YOU GO Full Range of Accessories and SIM ONLY
5 The Bayliss Centre, STREET • 01458 841741 website: www.streetcellular.com • email: sales@streetcellular.com
20 THE VISITOR November 2016
Glastonbury
G. M. Ayres
G.M. Ayres is a family run business established for over 26 years. Gary Ayres took the business over from his father and he has now been joined by son-inlaw Sam, who is now fully qualified. They offer a comprehensive range of services - their core business is tree care from felling and pruning through to hedges and shrub care. They undertake both domestic and commercial projects, are fully insured and all work is guaranteed. They are also licensed to remove the waste. In addition to tree work they offer a full landscaping service including turf laying, driveways and patios etc. They also offer property maintenance such as gutter clearance and patio cleaning. Whether you want your hedges regularly trimmed or a dangerous tree felled, give them a call. They
offer a free no obligation quotation and a 24 hour emergency call out service. Making your trees and garden a pleasure, not a problem.
Edward Howells Associates Limited - Chartered Certified Accountants
Edward Howells Associates are based in Glastonbury but deal with clients in the surrounding areas of Street, Wells and further afield. They deal with a wide range of business types, from small tax repayment claims to the preparation and audit of accounts for companies. Their core business is dealing with family businesses, whether they operate as a sole trader, partnership or limited company. They deal with basic compliance work of account preparations, tax, VAT returns and payroll, plus general business and tax planning matters. Do give them a call if you would like an informal, no obligation chat.
Offices at: Glastonbury, Castle Cary, Shepton Mallet and Cheddar
11 Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8DL Tel: 01458 832510 • Fax: 01458 832202 Email: glastonbury@bgw-solicitors.co.uk • www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk
G.M. AYRES
Tree Care & Garden Services A family business with over 26 years experience
Tree Services: Trees Felled, Trimmed, Shaped & Pruned Fruit Trees Pruned, Hedges Trimmed, Boxed & Shaped Shrubs Pruned and Shaped Free Written No Obligation Quotation • Fully Insured Work Guaranteed • Licensed Waste Removal Landscaping – Property Maintenance
FREEPHONE: 0800 0837152
Direct Line: 07789 326349 Email: garyayres653@gmail.com www.gmayrestreecare.com
Edward Howells Associates Limited
CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Registered Auditors * Preparation of Accounts Personal & Corporate Taxation * VAT & Payroll Business & Limited Company Set-Ups Business Planning & Advice Registered Office: 20a High Street, Glastonbury Somerset BA6 9DU Tel: 01458 831700 * Fax: 01458 831189 Email: accounts@edwardhowells.co.uk
Glastonbury ~ business focus
Hazy-Maes Auctions
Hazy-Maes Auctions were established in July 2013 and have been growing in strength and experience ever since. They began in Somerton and moved to Glastonbury in November 2015. This family run business is
rapidly becoming one of the best known Auctions in the South West with a reputation of being friendly and fair. The company is based on the belief that their customers' needs are of the utmost importance. With the entire team committed
to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of business is from repeat customers and referrals. Auctions are held fortnightly on a Friday evening at 6.30pm and continue on the Saturday commencing at 11.00am. You never know you to could catch the auction bug! Don't forget their auctions will be broadcast live over the internet via Easyliveauction.com
Glastonbury Post Office
Glastonbury Post Office is run by Gerald Cross together with one
of his two sons and five other members of staff. Having run this busy Post Office for over fourteen years, Gerald and his staff are well known to their customers and offer a friendly and helpful service. If you are planning a winter break don’t forget you can get your travel insurance, travellers cheques and currency from the Post Office. Christmas is looming so remember to send your overseas parcels and cards off in plenty of time.
STATIONERY • ACCOUNTS • STAMPS
The Cyder Barn, West Pennard, Glastonbury, is a trusted residential care home for people who need help and support to get the best out of their lives.
GLASTONBURY POST OFFICE AND CLASS CARDS
35 High Street Glastonbury BA6 9HG
Telephone 01458 831536
Hazy-Maes Auctions
MONEYGRAMS • BUDGET CARDS
T E L E P H O N E • G A S • E L E C T R I C I T Y • WAT E R • G I R O T R A N S A C T I O N S
GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • PENSION PAYMENTS
A BeAUTiFUlly conVeRTed former blacksmith’s workshop, cottage and barn, The Cyder Barn provides an excellent standard of accommodation for our 40 elderly residents in their own individual en-suite bedrooms with views being enjoyed either into our landscape gardens or across the Mendip Hills and surrounding countryside. The Cyder Barn offers a relaxed and homely environment, providing bespoke care packages, activities, entertainment, and a varied choice of menus cooked daily by our own chefs. Whether looking for day care, respite care, or a home for life, The Cyder Barn is here to provide you with the care you need.
For more information and a brochure please contact us on tel: 01458 834945 email us at cyderbarn@wpci.org.uk or write to us at The Cyder Barn, Glastonbury Road, West Pennard, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8NH.
November Notice Board CASTLE CARY
Performance by award winning UK singer songwriter Reg Meuross, Saturday 19 November at Caryford Hall. Tickets £10 from The Market House or www.caryfordhall.co.uk
GILLINGHAM / MERE
7 week courses for £85.00
Watercolour Club: Mere Lecture Hall 7.00-9.00 Mondays from 31st October, Vicarage School Room, Gillingham 2.004.00 Thursdays from 3rd November. Watercolour Practice: Mere Lecture Hall 10.30-12.30 from 4th November. Booking essential – enrol at: www.laura-jolliffe.co.uk
HENSTRIDGE
Tuesday 1st November at 2.30pm, Blackmore Vale U3A ‘Beatrice A Kingston Lacy Housemaid’ at Henstridge Village Hall. Members £1.50, Visitors £2.50, includes refreshments.
MARTOCK
24th November at 7.30pm in Martock Church, Black Cat
Auctions and House Clearance Services AUCTIONS HELD FORTNIGHTLY OVER 2 DAYS Friday evening from 6.30pm Saturday from 11.00am Also live bidding online: www.easyliveauction.com Viewing all day on Friday from 9.30am
NOVEMBER AUCTIONS
Friday 4th / Saturday 5th and Friday 18th / Saturday 19th Now at: Unit 4, Beckery Road, Glastonbury, BA6 9NX Tel: 01458 833550 • Email: office@hazymaesauctions.co.uk Visit our website: www.hazymaesauctions.co.uk Jazz play New Orleans Dance Hall tunes from 1940s/1960s, sextet led by Steve Graham. See their website (hear tunes) & martockonline.co.uk £8 on door, £7 from 01935 822706.
NORTON SUB HAMDON
Jumble Sale at Norton Village Hall (TA14 6SF) Saturday 5th November at 11am. Lots of bargains, Admission 30p. Information 01935 881718.
NORTH CHERITON
Christmas Gift and Craft Fayre at North Cheriton Village Hall on Saturday 12th November, 11am-4pm. Unique seasonal gifts for sale, made by local artists and craftspeople.
SHERBORNE
Jo Burt (Freddie Mercury, The Troggs, Sabbath) concert: Friday, 25th November at Digby Hall, Sherborne. Advance tickets £10 - see www.joburt.co.uk
ADVERTISE YOUR DECEMBER EVENT HERE!
A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 for 20 words. Send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP. All entries to be prepaid. Extra words 30p each. Deadline for December issue, Friday 11th November. Say you saw it in The Visitor
THE VISITOR November 2016 21
Leisure & Travel
Competition Winners
The winners of the competition in last month’s Visitor to win tickets to The Festive Christmas Fair at the NEC in Birmingham are: Mrs Angelina Wassell of Bridgwater; D. Allen of Shepton Mallet; Mrs Brenda Dixon of Scarborough and Mrs J. Gray of Telford.
Mendip Decorative and Fine Arts Society.
On Tuesday 1st November Douglas Skeggs MA will give a talk entitled Prague - City of the Winter Queen to Mendip DFAS. The talk, on the art treasure house that is Prague, will take place at the Bath and West Bar & Restaurant, B&W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN at 11.00am. Details:
www.mdfas.org.uk. Guests welcome. Contact 01934 862435.
Blackmore Vale and Yeovil National Trust Association
On November 5th 2016 Alistair Chisholm, Town Crier for Dorchester, will give a talk on Thomas Hardy. Alistair, who has been President of the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, believes that Hardy is often mistakenly thought to be ‘a miserable old fellow’. His talk will show, by quotations from Hardy’s prose and poetry, that this reputation is not deserved. This will be a lively revelation of Hardy and his work! Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 2.30pm. Admission is normally £3.00 for members of
2016 HFT Charity Christmas Fair Wincanton Memorial Hall
Saturday 19th November, 10.00am – 1.30pm Entry 50p Fantastic Bargains for Christmas
the Association and £5.00 for guests.
Christmas Market at Hestercombe
Get started on your Christmas shopping by visiting the Christmas Market at Hestercombe on Friday 18th, Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th November from 10am - 5pm. You will find over 60 festive stalls bursting with beautiful gifts, delicious treats and unusual hand-crafted items.
Music at St Michael’s Somerton
Spectra Musica are pleased to be returning to the beautiful church of St. Michael and All Angels in
the heart of Somerton for a concert on Saturday 19th November at 7.30 pm. The group’s Musical Director Peter Leech has arranged another intriguing collection of varied music which includes works by Fauré, Holst and Gershwin; Appalachian–based spiritual songs from the award winning film Cold Mountain and a lively selection from the musical Guys and Dolls. Concert pianist Anita D’Attellis will be featuring as usual, and also accompanying the group. Tickets are £10 from 01963 350160 or 01458 270096 or on the door. For more information go to www.spectramusica.co.uk
Musical Director: PETER LEECH Piano: ANITA D’ATTELLIS Performing ...
Motets • Fauré ‘Guys & Dolls’ Medley • Loesser Choral Folksongs • Holst ... and much more!
Saturday 19th November, 7.30pm Tickets £10 each 01458 270096 / 07963 350160 OR on the door www.spectramusica.co.uk
So, you think you know your pop music, do you?
LEARN DANCE
Winter Season – Start Now – Get / Keep Fit to ... at Milford Hall, Yeovil, BA21 4QD
SUNDAY EVENINGS • £2 per session ... including coffee and biscuits Session 1: 6.45pm – 7.45pm Session 2: 8.00pm – 10.00pm
Session 1: Beginners / Improvers Basic Social Ballroom, Latin and Sequence Session 2: Popular Modern Sequence
WEDNESDAY MORNINGS • £2 per session ... including coffee and biscuits Session 1: 9.45am – 10.45am Session 2: 11.15am – 12.15pm Session 1: Beginners / Improvers Basic Social Ballroom, Latin and Sequence Session 2: New Modern Sequence Dances Taught
Milford Hall is 1 mile north of Yeovil Town Centre The hall has a maple sprung floor and large car park All taught by patient, qualified teachers – everyone welcome
01935 424164 • Email: cyritadancers@btinternet.com
First lesson is FREE! Come and try!
22 THE VISITOR November 2016
By John Osborne • Answers can be found on page 63
1. Who said he was 'Living in America' in 1986?
2. Name the popular male behind his new album 'Heavy Entertainment Show' 3. 'Joan Jett and the ... '?
4. 'Polythene Pam' came from which Beatles album? 5. Who were 'Under the Bridge' in 1992?
6. Who sang about 'Me and You and a dog named Boo' in 1971? 7. Macy Gray had her only hit with which two-word titled song? 8. Who had 'Sad Eyes' in 1979?
9. Name the classic band who asked a 'Question' in 1970. 10. Which band was drinking 'Special Brew' in 1980? Bonus Question Name the year for Q7.
Question Impossible Who was the youngest performer to appear at the 'Woodstock' Festival Main Stage in 1969?
Great Quotes in Music (88) “One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain” — BOB MARLEY —
Family Health
Looking Good and feeling fine
with
Jenna Evans
Tooth & Gum Care Part Two
THIS MONTH we’re taking a look at oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic technique for oral health. What on earth is it? - Oil pulling has been taking the Internet by storm and basically consists of washing the mouth out with oil. Not very appetising maybe, but if the fans are right
and it can do everything from whiten the teeth to help prevent (and some bloggers claim, heal) cavities, read on to discover more! How does it work? - Oil pulling is supposed to help draw out ‘toxins’ from the mouth. That may all sound a little airy fairy, but actually we know that oil pulling sucks up lurking bacteria (including S. Mutans, the primary culprit for tooth decay) and is actually a very effective means of cleaning these tissues. The act of swooshing oil around the mouth means that bacteria can be scooped up from hard to reach areas that brushes just can’t reach. There seems to be evidence for teeth whitening too and being a very gentle means of cleansing it’s great for people who already
New in at Preview of Wincanton Amazing Jeans and leggings for women. Amazing Jeans stretch, shape and support – giving you a wonderful shape. Available in denim, velvet and fine needlecord in a wide choice of colours – sizes 10 to 18. Go on treat yourself!
The Dress Circle
have irritable gums or suffer from mouth ulcers. What to expect - Many people report their mouth feels cleaner, their breath is fresher, teeth whiter and irritated or bleeding gums may have subsided within a couple of
weeks. Long term, oil pullers may feel other benefits to general health and wellbeing improvements in jaw problems, sinusitis, headaches and even skin complaints. What’s the procedure? First thing in the morning, on an
fashion boutique
Be stylish and warm this winter ... Market Place Wincanton 01963 31676
Dress Agency
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Deadline for the December issue is Friday 11th November Call: 01963 351256
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in our new ranges from ...
7 Market Place Wincanton ▪ BA9 9LL
01963 32808 ▪ www.amour-lingerie.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2016 23
Looking Good ...
empty stomach, take roughly a tablespoon of oil and give it a good swill around the mouth for five minutes. Swish, swoosh, suck and chew on that oil and you’ll find it starts to thicken and become milky - that’s the oil mixing with your saliva and bacteria. Make sure you don’t swallow - the idea is to remove these beasties from your body not send them further in! Spit the oil into a bin - I keep an old sealable tub that can just go out in the rubbish when it’s full. Never spit in the sink or loo, this may
damage your plumbing. Repeat with a fresh batch of oil for 5 more minutes. You can follow this up with a salt or bicarbonate of soda mouth wash (try a teaspoon of either dissolved in a little water) and then brush your teeth and tongue. If you’ve ever looked into oil pulling you’ll see my recommendations for time spent gargling the grease are a lot less than some who suggest 15-20 minutes. There are two reasons for this. Firstly when you are starting out, you may find it’s quite hard work on the jaw. Start for only a couple of minutes if necessary and work upwards. Secondly, I tend to follow the notion that after a certain point the oil is saturated and all you’re doing is smooshing bacteria around your mouth, at best pointless and at worst you may start to reabsorb bacteria. This is why I only do around 5 minutes and then repeat if I feel this is necessary.
Hints & Tips
For most, oil pulling is a strange but not unpleasant
Easy to wear tunics - available in a wide range of colours and styles available from April’s of Castle Cary.
One Stop Mobility
SCOOTERS
CHAIRS
Extensive range of new and used scooters
Rise & recline chairs Wide choice of fabrics
On the premises workshops and part exchange
BEDS
AND MORE
Cosyfeet footwear
Rise & recline beds
Living aids
Adjustable to suit your needs
Call in and see us!
NEXT TO COSTA COFFEE AND WITHIN EASY REACH OF MAIN CAR PARK
Walking sticks Wheel Chairs
Walkers & Tri-Walkers
10 Falkland Square, Crewkerne, TA18 7JS 01460 271172 www.regencycareandmobility.co.uk
24 THE VISITOR November 2016
“If you can’t come to us we will come to you”
and feeling fine
experience and it’s easy enough to build into your morning routine. You may decide to oil pull whilst getting dressed, whilst taking your morning shower, or during other morning ablutions! Some people find oil pulling really clears out their sinuses and they become very full of mucous. If this is the case, make sure you give your nose a good blow before you start, and always stop and spit if you need to bring up catarrh. You can always start again. A tablespoon of oil may be too much for a beginner, so feel free to start with a teaspoon and work up. Sesame oil is the traditional choice for oil pulling as it is a native plant to Ayurveda. Coconut however, is probably most often used these days and as it possesses excellent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties (think helping manage oral thrush) it’s a firm favourite with me. Coconut oil is semi-solid at room temperature and so you do have to give it a chew before it melts down fully, when it actually becomes less viscous than oils such as sesame, which I find quite cloying. Rarely, oil pulling may trigger a gag reflex in susceptible individuals. If this happens try leaning your head forward and using less oil. If you find it’s giving you jaw ache, try oil pulling for less time and make sure you’re not being over zealous! It should be a gentle process. So oil pulling is a simple, cheap and potentially very effective means of oral care why not give it a go? Next month we’ll look at some recipes for homemade toothpastes and mouthwashes. See you then! Jenna Evans ©2016.
Pictured right: Brighten up your wardrobe this winter. The dress pictured is from the Joseph Ribkoff collection available from Shirley Allum Fashions of Shaftesbury.
Jenna is an Holistic Health Coach and creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty UK’. Jenna is also a multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Find Ceres on Facebook as ‘Ceres Natural Foods Ltd’. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.
Shirley Allum Fashions
Shirley Allum Fashions and Lingerie held an amazing fashion show at The Copperidge, Motcombe on 21st October with a sell out on both the afternoon and evening performances, raising money for the Forest Holme Hospice in Poole. The grand total raised will be displayed in store when all the money is in, added and finalized. The show started off with Joseph Ribkoff with lots of ooh’s and aah’s. New for this season, designs from Olsen and Olivier Philips, winter coats by Christina Felix, and tweeds from Joules reminded us all that autumn is here. The show ended with Triumph sports bras and Lepel lingerie. The circus theme made it a show to remember and they would like to thank a ll t he sponsors, dedicated friends and Shirley Allum staff who gave up their time to make the shows such a success.
PRE-CHRISTMAS OFFERS
tel:
Set of semi permanent eyelash extensions, or ... Eyelash lift with eyelash tint ... just £40 Shellac manicure and pedicure 01935 851221 ... just £45 Decléor Gift Sets & Gift Vouchers also available for the perfect gift
OFFERS AVAILABLE until 10th December 2016 Visit our website for full range of treatments
1 Trent Court, Trent, Sherborne, DT9 4AY
email: info@beauty-barn.co.uk www.beauty-barn.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2016 25
MARTOCK ~ business focus
SITUATED JUST ONE and a half miles from the A303, the lively and bustling village of Martock can be found between the old Roman towns of Ilchester and Ilminster. Martock has plenty of attractive hamstone buildings and a fine selection of shops and individual businesses.
The White Hart Hotel
The delicious French/English
cuisine offered at the White Hart reflects the chefs’ care and imagination in cooking fresh local ingredients. From light snacks, to the £6.95 Bistro specials and the restaurant menu, the food is superb and the atmosphere always welcoming. Check the Christmas and New Year’s Eve menus. Coming soon is their popular Beaujolais Nouveau night on
FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION With over 30 years of building experience
Thursday 17th November … so French and fun! The White Hart is in The Good Beer Guide and enjoys promoting local real ales. Definitely recommended for food lovers and those who like relaxing in a friendly village pub.
Country Build SW Ltd
Located in the heart of Somerset, Country Build SW prides itself on providing exceptional workmanship and extensive experience coupled with a
The Nags Head
— NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —
East Street • Martock • Tel: 01935 823432
All works completed by our experienced and reliable team
Services Include but not limited to:
“MARTOCK’S HIDDEN GEM”
Project Management ★ New Build Planning ★ Loft Conversions Carpentry ★ Roofing Ground Works ★ Refurbishment Renovation ★ Commercial Property Maintenance ★ Joinery
All aspects of Building & Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken
Contact us for a free estimate
(01935) 823346
www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk
WHITE HART HOTEL
thorough understanding of the build process and restoration of properties located in the country. Whether it may be a full extension on a listed building, a new build, or restoring and maintaining existing properties, Country Build sympathetically and professionally take you through the entire process from conception to completion. All work is fully insured and guaranteed so you can always be sure of peace of mind. No hidden extras.
Find us just down the road from the Post Office — opposite Bearly House Delicious Home Cooked Food - Lunchtimes and Evenings
✴ TRADITIONAL SUNDAY ROAST LUNCH from £7.50 ✴ ✴ OPEN ALL DAY Friday, Saturday & Sunday ✴ Open Monday – Thursday 12noon – 2.30pm and from 6pm
O
Christmas Dinners available throughout December Bookings Advised • Small Buffets • Guest Ales
O
Renowned for High Quality Fresh Food and Inventive Cuisine Peter and Isabelle Halkyard welcome you to the FREEHOUSE
East Street, Martock • 01935 822005
WHAT A CRACKER ... for every party of 12 or more, one Christmas Cracker will hold a £5 Drink Voucher a good way to start the party!
Plumbing & Heating Services
Does your bathroom need updating or replacing?
CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU
2 Courses £15.95 • 3 Courses £19.95 Supplement £1.50 for coffee & mince pie
Roasted chestnut soup with herb croutons Duck and pork terrine with a cranberry, orange and pistachio compote and focaccia croute Beetroot cured salmon with pickled baby veg, mustard cress and soda bread Poached pear, walnut, mushroom & blue cheese salad with herb croutons and a balsamic dressing ***************** Christmas turkey, piggy-back sausages, sage and apricot stuffing, cranberry sauce Beef and Guinness casserole with herb dumplings, honey roast vegetables Slow roast belly of pork with an apple and sage compote and cider reduction Fillet of sea bream with a cider and brandy linguine bisque Butternut risotto with poached pear and caramelised walnuts All served with fresh seasonal vegetables and potatoes
***************** Christmas pudding with a nutmeg custard & red berries compote Lemon ginger crunch with mini meringues Chocolate and orange mousse with shortbread Warm apple and sultana tarte tatin with clotted cream and toasted almonds Fine Stilton and Cheddar with quince jelly and biscuits *****************
As always, our food is freshly prepared; if you have any allergies, please do not hesitate to contact us. To secure your booking, we request a £5.00 non-refundable deposit per person. To book small or large parties call us on 01935 822005.
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR
CHRISTMAS PARTY LUNCH MENU from £12.95 Beaujolais Nouveau Night Thursday 17th November Bistro Lunches £ 6.95 A La Carte and Specials Menus
www.whiteharthotelmartock.co.uk Like us on Facebook: Martock White Hart
26 THE VISITOR November 2016
We offer a complete design and installation service
Wet rooms Bathrooms Shower Cubicles Tiling etc. Competitive Prices
Be warm this winte winter!
Does your boiler need servicing or replacing? Are your radiators working efficiently?
For all your heating requirements Give us a call ...
Friendly and professional service Contact us for a free estimate
(01935) 823346
www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk
MARTOCK ~ business focus
The Nags Head
Visit the Nags Head where you will find tasty homemade specials and delicious puddings. Pop in for lunch and enjoy a ‘Special’ from just £5.00 available Monday to Friday. A traditional Sunday Roast is great value from £7.50 with a choice of 4 meats. It’s Hallowe’en Party - 31st October - fancy dress is welcome. Turkey dinners will be served throughout December at £8.95. There’s a choice of PreChristmas Party Menus which are available for lunch or dinner, call in or phone for details.
Country Style Furniture
Country Style Furniture (Steve Ilett) have moved from Parrett works to larger premises at Martock.
The new premises has a large workshop in addition to a spacious showroom. Steve specialises in bespoke, handmade country furniture including kitchens, bedroom furniture and bathrooms. The new showroom (called Hen House Antiques) will showcase this along with a large and varied display of antiques, country pine, decorative and salvaged items. From a chopping board to a kitchen, from a coat rack to a wardrobe, Country Style Furniture (inc Hen House Antiques) are well worth a visit. They can be found at south Somerset Poultry Farm, Stoke road, Martock (200 yards from Martock recreation ground). Tel 01935 829522 or visit www. country-stylefurniture. co.uk
Chirpy Cottage Gluten Free Food and Café
Chirpy Cottage has recently opened a shop and café on the Martock Business Park specialising in gluten and wheat free produce. As well as selling their wares in the shop, they also provide a delivery service. The Gluten Free Café will be serving everything from delicious homemade bread, pies and cakes through to daily specials such as lasagne and curries, together with lighter m e a l s i n cl u d in g o m e le t t e s , jacket potatoes and toasties. Vegetarian and dairy free dishes will also feature on the menu. Fresh coffee, smoothies, and other hot and cold beverages will be available. Chirpy Cottage has been established for several years and will endeavour to meet your special dietary needs wherever possible. Call in for a price list and refreshments. With Christmas around the corner, orders are now being taken for Christmas puddings, cakes and hampers.
Bower Hinton Farm Shop
Bower Hinton Farm has been owned and run by the Palmer family for over 160 years. The Farm Shop was opened by Duncan and Sally Palmer in April 2006. Duncan specialises in growing outdoor vegetables and salads plus indoor strawberries. Produce is harvested daily to maintain freshness. The shop also offers a full range of local meats, dairy products, preserves, Lyme Bay wines, Perry’s, Harry’s and Ham Hill cider, Yeovil ales, frozen pastries, fruit and ready meals, Somerset milk, Martock bread and much more. Why not enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee and locally made cake - whilst using the farm shop? Orders are now being taken for Christmas / veg boxes – just fill out your requirements, drop it into the shop and it will be ready for collection on your chosen date.
The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE:
www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
NOW OPEN ...
Chirpy Cottage Cafe
Specialising in GLUTEN / WHEAT FREE Products 'Two Hearts One Love' by Doug Hyde. Limited edition giclee print. Edition size 395, image size 22" x 16". Available framed at £525.00 from Martock Gallery, Martock.
Open for Light Lunches & Daily Specials
Homemade Breads, Cakes and Pies Fresh Coffees Smoothies Teas etc.
Full Range of Pies & Ready Meals available for Home Delivery — Call in for Order Form — Unit 4 • The Old Railway • North Street • Martock • TA12 6FF Tel: 07762 735071 • Email: info@chirpycottage.co.uk ———— www.chirpycottage.co.uk ————
‘Enduring Love’ resin sculpture 9" x 9" x 5½" Two hearts entwined together £110
Martock Gallery Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.30
Water Street • Martock • Tel: (01935) 823254 • www.martockgallery.com
Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock DELICIOUS HOME GROWN VEGETABLES
• A full range of red meat, poultry, bacon, sausages etc. • Fruit & veg. • Dairy produce • Preserves and pickles • Bread and biscuits • Draught and bottled cider and wine • A fantastic range of frozen fruit & pastries ORDERS • Ice cream, homemade cakes & coffee shop TAKEN FOR CHRISTMAS OpEN: Monday - Saturday TURKEYS 10.00am - 5.00pm Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton
Tel: 01935 827743
WE HAVE MOVED
Handmade Kitchens Freestanding Furniture Antiques Country Pine & Decorative Items
Steve Ilett
COUNTRY STYLE FURNITURE (inc. Hen House Antiques) South Somerset Poultry Farm Stoke Road, Martock, TA12 6AF 200 yards from Martock Recreation Ground
01935 829522 • 07801 061442
country-stylefurniture.co.uk
THE VISITOR November 2016 27
MARTOCK ~ business focus
Little Wings and Sudwoofers
Little Wings and Sudwoofers is located on North Street Martock - this is a unique and friendly pet shop that has all you need under one roof. Small animals and birds are sold here in beautifully clean surroundings. The shop stocks a varied and excellent range of pet food brands plus a wide selection of accessories such as toys, cages, beds and lots more! Little Wings and Sudwoofers even have their own very unique dog laundrette where you are welcome to bath your own dog, with full support and guidance from a member of staff, or a member of staff will do it for you.
The shop is open 6 days a week from 9.30am until 5pm.
Relax in comfort in a rise and recline chair from A2B Mobility of Martock.
Drapes Direct
Drapes Direct are the Somerset Curtain & Blind Specialists; whether you are looking to do one window or a whole property, whether it’s for your own home or a huge commercial property, we have the solution! We make beautiful made-tomeasure curtains with a choice of headings, matching accessories and all types of blinds! Come and have a chat with us about your plans and ideas! With hundreds of fabrics to suit all budgets and tastes plus new fabrics from the
Your local friendly pet shop
Small Animals and Birds for Sale Pet Food, Treats & Accessories In-house Dog Laundrette
Unit 5 North Street, Martock • Tel: 01935 826330
latest collections coming in each season, there is something for everyone! We will come measure free of charge! Markus has over 20 years’ experience in the trade so is able to give sound, practical advice on those difficult spaces - and you know you’ll always get
Are you sitting comfortabl comfortably?
wingsandwoofers@gmail.com
We have an excellent choice of ... Rise & Recline Chairs from £450 Static Fireside Chairs from £399 Choice of fabrics & styles Mobility Scooters
SALES SERVICE REPAIRS HIRE
From Walking Sticks to Stairlifts ... we can help with your mobility Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.00pm Saturday 9.30am – 12.30pm Other times by appointment
Units 1 & 2 Great Western Road, Martock 0800 731 7078 07902 661392 SALES • SERVICE • REPAIRS • HIRE
guaranteed quality products and a professional fitting service! Give Markus or Tracey a call to arrange a visit, or call in at their factory showroom at Unit 2, Kelly’s Yard, Parrett Works, Martock TA12 6AE (next door to Castle Reclamation and across from Southfork Caravan site). The showroom is open to the public Mon-Thurs 9-3pm, Fri. 91.00pm and Sat. 9-12noon!
The Rose & Crown
Visit The Rose & Crown in Bower Hinton where you will find a traditional village pub, open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 noon to close. They offer delicious traditional home-cooked food with Bar Meals available from £6.00, plus light bites including Baguettes and Jacket Potatoes are also available. Regular Sunday Roast with choice of meats with all the trimmings - 1 course £7.95 or 2 courses £9.95. Regular entertainment includes a popular fortnightly Friday evening Quiz plus regular Live Music, details can be found at www.therosiebower hinton.co.uk
The Rose and Crown Bower Hinton, Martock 01935 822393
Open Tuesday to Sunday – All Day from 12pm
Home Cooked FOOD available from £6 + Baguettes & Jacket Potatoes FISH ‘n’ CHIP Friday served 5pm – 8pm, £6
Fortnightly Friday QUIZ Regular LIVE MUSIC Come and watch all the sporting action on our Large TV Screen with Surround Sound 28 THE VISITOR November 2016
www.therosiebowerhinton.co.uk
ROYAL OAk
Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...
Over Stratton SOuTH pETHERTON
Christmas Fayre
A Charming Country Inn where dining out won’t break the bank
Celeriac and apple soup finished with herb croutons Grilled goats cheese with spiced plums and pesto dressing Barbary duck, pear & walnut salad, pomegranate & raspberry dressing Smoked salmon and asparagus tart
* * * * * * * * *
Traditional roast turkey served with bacon, chipolata & stuffing Baked fillet of red snapper, Mediterranean vegetables, balsamic dressing pork, apple and cider stew, sage dumplings Seasonal vegetable strudel
All served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes * * * * * * * * *
Christmas pudding and brandy custard Strawberry and clotted cream tart, basil Chantilly cream Orange and redcurrant crème brülée, shortbread biscuit Selection of cheese and biscuits
* * * * * * * * *
2 Courses – £15.95 • 3 Courses – £19.95
Thursday 1st December – Friday 23rd December
For ENQuIRIES please pHONE 01460 240906
THE VISITOR November 2016 29
The Stag’s
Head
Yarlington nr. Wincanton • Somerset • BA9 8DG 01963 440393
Christmas Menu
Evergreen Christmas Menu
Available from 1st December to 24th December.
Starters
— FOR THE OVER 60s —
Available from 1st December to 24th December. 12noon until 2pm
Roasted Vine Tomato Soup drizzled with basil oil and garlic croutons.
Starters
king prawns in a garlic, lime & chilli butter, served with olive bread.
Red pepper & Vine Tomato Soup served with crusty bread.
Breaded Brie served with mixed baby leaves and a port & cranberry coulis.
pate Maison served with mixed baby leaves and toast and butter.
Baked Field Mushroom filled with spring onion, tomato, garlic & chives, and topped with melted Montgomery Cheddar cheese.
Smoked Mackerel served with brown bread and butter.
Roast Breast of Turkey with almond and apricot stuffing, chipolata and bacon roll.
Main Meals
Main Meals
Chicken princess Supreme of Chicken served in a white wine cream and mushroom sauce topped with asparagus. 8oz Sirloin Steak – cooked to your liking (please state) served with a separate honey and whole grain mustard, onion and cream sauce. Served with chips, mushroom and tomato.
Sea Bass Fillets marinated with garlic, parsley, chilli and lemon, lightly dusted in bread crumbs, served with a tomato and herb sauce. Spinach & Mushroom Wellington filled with brie, cranberries, field mushroom and baby spinach, served with a red wine and cranberry & mushroom sauce.
Breaded Brie served with mixed baby leaves and a port & cranberry sauce.
Roast Turkey with an almond and apricot stuffing and a chipolata and bacon roll.
Beef Bourguignon, tender pieces of beef in an onion, garlic, button mushrooms, button onions and red wine sauce. Somerset pork in a sauce of onions, mushrooms, bacon, cheese, cider and cream. Luxury Nut Roast in a cranberry, mushroom and red wine sauce.
poached Hake in a spinach & Portuguese tomato sauce. Served with roast potatoes, new potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Main meals served with a selection of roast and new potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Desserts
Belgian Chocolate Cheesecake served with clotted cream (gluten free). Christmas pudding served with custard.
Raspberry, White Chocolate & Tia Maria Brûleé served with a shortbread finger.
Desserts
Belgian Chocolate Cheesecake served with clotted cream (gluten free). Lemon Roulade served with clotted cream (gluten free). Raspberry, White Chocolate & Tia Maria Brûleé served with a shortbread finger.
To Finish ... fresh brewed Coffee or Tea and a Mint Chocolate.
Christmas pudding served with custard. To Finish ... fresh brewed Coffee or Tea and a Mint Chocolate.
Two courses £19.95 Three courses £21.95 Inclusive of cracker and party box.
Two courses £11.95 Three courses £14.95
— NEW YEAR’S EVE pARTY —
4 Course Dinner Dancing to Neil Diamond Tribute Glass of prosecco party poppers and More 30 THE VISITOR November 2016
... to add to the fun!
West Stour • Nr Gillingham • Dorset • SP8 5RP
The versatile menu at The Ship Inn caters both for those who want a hearty sandwich and a pint, to those who want to enjoy a full three-course meal with a decent bottle of wine. Our dishes are a blend of the traditional and the not so familiar, with a specials board and fresh fish board that offer further daily choices. We pride ourselves on using local and seasonal ingredients as much as possible and all dishes are freshly prepared and cooked to order. ______________________
Christmas Menu 2016 3 courses £24.95 / 2 courses £18.95 (coffee & mince pies included) BOOKINGS & PRE-ORDERS ONLY Available Lunch or Evening from 1st December to 24th December 2016
Starters
Sweet potato & ginger soup, freshly homemade bread
Duck liver & orange pate, gooseberry & coriander chutney, toasted homemade bread Hot smoked salmon, prawn & citrus tian, lemon & dill crème fraiche, dressed leaves
Grilled aubergine basil tomato & Mozzarella parcel, toasted pine nuts, rocket salad, balsamic glaze
Mains
Roast breast of turkey, cranberry stuffing, pigs in blankets, bread sauce, roast potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables and pan gravy. pheasant smoked bacon & leek stroganoff, garlic & rosemary parmentier potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables
Wild mushroom spinach & hazelnut wellington, smoked Applewood cream, wild rocket, parsnip dauphinoise potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables pan-fried fillet of hake, prawn & pea risotto, saffron & chive cream, dressed salad
Braised daube of beef, red wine mushroom & bacon jus, parsnip dauphinoise potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables
Desserts
HALFWAY H O U S E H O T E L Chilthorne Domer YE OVI L Prop. Paul T. Rowsell
Pre-Christmas Party Menu 1 Course £14.95 2 Courses £19.95 3 Courses £24.95
Christmas Day Lunch
Two Sittings: 12noon & 3pm £55 Children (under 12) £14.95
Why not stay the nigh night?
SpECIAL CHRISTMAS pROMOTION 19 Excellent Ensuite Rooms
White chocolate & Bailey’s mousse
Sunday Carvery
Raspberry Amaretto & basil semi-freddo, Ameretti crumble topping
LAkES & GARDENS – FREE FISHING FOR RESIDENTS
Traditional Christmas pudding with warm brandy custard & vanilla ice cream Millionaire’s cheesecake, coffee cream
Tel: 01747 838 640 • Fax: 01747 838 640 Email: mail@shipinn-dorset.com website: http://www.shipinn-dorset.com
£9.95
Tel: 01935 840350 • Fax: 01935 849006 Visit our website www.halfwayhotelyeovil.com Follow us on Facebook
THE VISITOR November 2016 31
ROSE & PORTCULLIS Butleigh near Glastonbury Somerset, BA6 8TQ Tel: 01458 850287 roseandport@gmail.com
CHRISTMAS MENU 2016 STARTERS
Honey roasted butternut, parsnip and red pepper soup, served with chunky bread Deep fried breaded camembert on a roasted beetroot and orange salad with a balsamic reduction Wild mushrooms sautéed in garlic oil, served on toasted granary bread with a thyme & rosemary crème frâiche Warm sticky chorizo chunks on dressed rocket and chard with mini mozzarella finished with basil oil Thai style fish cake made with king prawns, salmon, cod, ginger, lime and chilli and spring onion with a lemon mayonnaise
MAINS
Home Farm roast turkey crown with a thyme and sage stuffing, R&P sugar baked ham, pigs in blankets, roast potatoes and parsnips with a cranberry sauce and a selection of vegetables Gressingham duck breast with herb roasted potatoes, fine beans and sweet orange, apricot and honey sauce English lamb shank slow cooked in stout and redcurrant with creamy mash, braised savoy cabbage and bacon finished with its own rich jus pan roasted salmon fillets on horseradish mash with roasted beetroot purée, curly kale and a lemon crème frâiche pork fillet filled with black pudding wrapped in smoked bacon with dauphinoise potatoes, red cabbage and a sweet cider and apple sauce Somerset goats cheese stack with layers of chopped pecans, pistachios and cashews with spinach, roast beetroot, butternut squash and topped with an orange, cinnamon and plum oil served with sweet potato fries
PUDDINGS
Homemade traditional Christmas pudding served with double cream or brandy sauce Chilled chocolate cups filled with chocolate and Grand Marnier with an orange segment sauce Coffee and kalua pecan creams with a chocolate coated Florentine Brandy snap baskets with amaretto ice cream and warm poached plums Classic lemon tart with quenelles of clotted cream and a sweet warm cranberry sauce Cheese and biscuits Coffee and mince pies to finish
Two Courses £19 Three Courses £24
This menu is for pre-booked parties and is available during December
32 THE VISITOR November 2016
Traditional Country Pub Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink
Christmas Menu
From Thursday December 1st
Starters
Spiced Parsnip Soup Smoked Salmon Prawn Cornets with a Marie Rose Sauce Black Pudding with Caramelised Apple Marinaded Mozzerella Salad with Sun Blush Tomatoes And Olives All with Fresh Bread Rolls
Mains
Roast Turkey with all the Trimmings Sirloin Steak with Docks Steak Butter, Tomatoes and Mushrooms Game Pie with Seasonal Vegetables and Potatoes Smoked Haddock Mornay with Chargrilled Vegetables with Orzo Pasta
Puddings
Traditional Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter or Cream Chocolate Orange Crè me Brulee Tropical Fruit Salad Cheese Board wth Quince Cheese Coffee
2 Courses £14.95 - 3 Courses £18.95
Also throughout December Lunch Time Only
2 Course Roast Turkey Lunch with Christmas Pudding or Mince Pie
£9.50
Dinnington Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397 Email hilary@dinningtondocks.co.uk
A firm favourite for great value family dining ... The
Walnut Tree Inn MERE “Good food - good wines - good times”
NESTLING on the outskirts of the beautiful town of Mere and under the same ownership since it opened its doors for the first time in 2006 The Walnut Tree remains a firm favourite for great value family dining in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Husband and wife team Mark and Samantha Cassidy have a simple ethos that has stood them in good stead with over 26 years experience in the catering industry. “We do the simple things well” says Mark. “We cater for people who want good quality, traditional, well sourced and prepared food in comfortable surroundings at very reasonable prices. We have a marvellous team of enthusiastic and friendly staff who are proud of what they do, and love to see satisfied customers returning.”
With a menu packed full of traditional favourites, including beer battered fish and chips, fishcakes, homemade burgers, succulent steaks and curries you’ll also find the likes of roasted rump of Somerset lamb, herb crusted salmon and slow cooked pork belly with cider gravy and crackling on the special’s board. The Walnut is well known too for its’ gluten free offering with many of the main courses being available as gluten free if required. Vegetarians don’t miss out either as the kitchen has a regularly changing choice of delicious options on the blackboards. If it’s the children who dictate where the family goes to eat then rest assured the children’s menu at The Walnut Tree has more than enough choice to cater for the most “discerning” young diner. All the desserts are homemade by Samantha and the team with firm favourites such as chocolate fudge cake, sticky toffee pudding and brandy snap baskets making regular appearances as some of the regular favourites.
The culinary highlight of the week at The Walnut has to be the Sunday Carvery which is well known throughout the three counties as one of the best around! With a choice of four slowly roasted meats sourced locally and at least eight different potato and vegetable choices along with giant homemade Yorkies, Sunday lunch really is a special treat that people keep coming back for week after week. Booking is essential on Sunday lunchtime but fear not as they serve all day long until 9pm! So next time you wonder where to visit for a spot of lunch, a well kept pint of ale or chilled glass of wine, a relaxing evening out, or one of the finest Sunday carveries you’re likely to encounter, you couldn’t do much better than a visit to The Walnut Tree Inn Mere.
Menus served from Thursday 1st December until Sat 7th January
FESTIVE FEAST MENU
Served from 6pm On Friday and Saturday evenings the traditional Christmas dinner will be served from the carvery
STA RT E R S Chef ’s homemade Winter vegetable soup with crusty bread Smoked salmon and prawn cocktail with granary bread Chef ’s homemade chicken liver and brandy pate Stilton and mushroom melt on baked crostini Rosemary breaded brie with cranberry and port sauce
MA I N CO U R SE S All mains are accompanied by traditional vegetable and potato selection. Roast turkey and glazed gammon, pigs in blanket and stuffing Beef stroganoff with sticky rice and green beans Roasted loin of honey glazed pork with an apple and cider sauce 8 oz Lagan Farm rib-eye steak, homemade chips & flat mushroom (£5 supp) Confit leg of Creedy Carver duck with port and orange sauce Baked cod with a dill and hollandaise sauce Roasted vegetable pasta pommodoro with garlic ciabatta Chef ’s cranberry and vegetable nut roast with glazed goat’s cheese DE SS E RT S Profiteroles with warm chocolate and butterscotch sauces Chocolate and raspberry brownies with ice cream Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Lemon and raspberry posset with homemade shortbread Bailey’s Irish cheesecake Selection of cheese, biscuits and chutney
2 courses and coffee £17 3 courses and coffee £22.50 Excludes Xmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day
LIGHTER LUNCHTIME MENU
Served from 12pm until 3pm Monday – Friday
STA RT E R S Chef ’s homemade Winter vegetable soup with crusty bread Chef ’s homemade chicken liver and brandy pate Whitebait with lemon and tartare sauce Baked brie with cranberry sauce
MA I N CO U R SE S Roast turkey with traditional trimmings Roasted loin of honey glazed pork with an apple and cider sauce Herb crusted cod fillet with tomato and basil sauce Roasted vegetable pasta pommodoro with garlic ciabatta Chef ’s cranberry and vegetable nut roast with glazed goat’s cheese DE SS E RT S Profiteroles with warm chocolate and butterscotch sauces Sticky toffee pudding with ice cream Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Bailey’s Irish cheesecake 2 courses and coffee £15 3 courses and coffee £20 If you require a Christmas party outside of the dates above just ask and we’ll do our very best to accommodate you Please note we can prepare nearly all dishes gluten free if required, just let us know when you book.
Shaftesbury Road, MERE, Wiltshire BA12 6BH 01747 861220 www.walnut-tree-inn.co.uk
THE VISITOR November 2016 33
A beautiful historic village inn ... RESTAURANT - HOTEL - BAR
Christmas Menu S TA rT E r S
Jerusalem artichoke veloute, apple, giroles, sourdough
Wild bird terrine, pears, pickled carrots, walnut bread Porter cured salmon, Dorset crab, fermented fennel, lemon mayonnaise
ricotta dumplings, butter poached turnips, chanterelles, winter kale
MAinS
Wiltshire bronze turkey, with all the trimmings, sage & chestnut stuffing
Cornish hake, hispi cabbage, rosti, mussel cream, sea rosemary Lamb saddle wellington, spinach, roasted root vegetables, celeriac fondants, lamb jus
Natterjack Inn ... Christmas at the ... Evercreech Junction EVERCREECH • BA4 6NA
Menu December 2016 STARTERS
Creamy Bubble & Squeak Soup, Crispy Bacon Chicken Liver Pate with Toasted Brioche, Apple Chutney Beetroot, Smoked Salmon & Prawn Roulade, Horseradish Cream Melting Somerset Camembert, Cranberry Compote
MAINS
Traditional Roast Turkey with Cranberry & Port Sauce Slow Roasted Beef Brisket with Red Wine Jus Roast Pork Shoulder with Cider & Apple Sauce
All served with Roast Potatoes, BaconWrapped Sausages, Sage & Onion Stuffing & SeasonalVegetables
Leek & Chestnut Mushroom Wellington, Stilton Sauce, New Potatoes & Vegetables Roasted Home Smoked Organic Salmon Fillet, White Wine Sauce, New Potatoes & Vegetables
PUDDINGS
Homemade Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce Lemon Posset, Cranberry Compote, Shortbread Baked Vanilla Cheesecake, Blackcurrant Icecream, Blackcurrant Coulis Profiteroles with Chantilly Cream & Chocolate Sauce Selection of Local Cheeses, Biscuits, Apple Chutney Our Christmas Menu is available from 1st to 24th December 3 Course Menu £25.00 • 2 Course Menu £19.00 – Lunchtimes Only Booking & Pre-Ordering are required for this menu
NEW SUNDAY OPENING HOURS
at ... 12noon and finishes at ... 5pm Sunday Roast—starts Closed Sunday Evenings —
Tel: 01749 860253 • Fax: 01749 860757 email: natterjack@btconnect.com www.thenatterjackinn.com
Bookings ...
34 THE VISITOR November 2016
Salt baked cauliflower, wild mushrooms, samphire, cauliflower cheese veloute, toasted hazelnuts
DESSErTS
Christmas pudding, brandy butter
Poached pear, saffron cake, mead, yoghurt sorbet
Chocolate delice, delice, beer nuts, malt ice cream, honeycomb
£18.95 for two courses £22.95 for three course
ChEf ProfiLE – Ben Abercrombie
During the past 11 years, kitchens have been Ben Abercrombie’s first point of contact.
Now HEAD CHEF at The Mildmay Arms, Queen Camel, Ben began learning his craft at the innocent age of 14, starting out as a pot wash at The Helyar Arms. Since then, Ben has worked for many prestigious establishments including Claridge’s in London, The Seahorse in Dartmouth and the renowned HIX Restaurant in Soho. Having spent several years at HIX he moved on to become Head Chef at a local gastro pub, where he was the driving force behind their success in gaining 2AA rosettes for cooking and Highly Commended in the Michelin Guide. He has gone on to win numerous further awards. His style of cooking is modern-British with classic techniques.
Why not stay the night?
We offer superb accommodation in our individually designed rooms
Tel: 01935 850456
Email: mildmayarms@yahoo.com Conveniently situated just 600 yards from the A303 and only 6 miles from Yeovil and Sherborne
N E W LY R E F U R B I S H E D Nuova Italia
st usic la onth Live M of each m Friday
RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 12noon – 10.30pm Extensive A La Carte Menu see website
Take Away Service FREE DELIVERY ... within 10 mile radius for orders over £20 Christmas Bookings Now Taken large parties welcome (up to 80 people)
LIVE MUSIC every Friday throughout December Open for Christmas Day Lunch
OWN CAR PARK
CHRISTMAS
18 CHURCH STREET, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LN Tel: 01935 840033 • www.nuovaitalia.co.uk
PROGRAMME
of
Nuova Italia
Book now for Christmas 2016 at
Leigh Common wincanton bA9 8LD
ILCHESTER
2nd Dec Mathew Rock A Night of Musicals 16th Dec Jackie Payne Grease & Dirty Dancing
Christmas Menu 2 Courses £17 3 Courses £20
Starters
VEGETABLE SOUP (V) Homemade soup served with croutons and warm crusty bread
CRANBERRY GLAZED MEATBALLS Delicious meatballs in a sticky cranberry and brown sugar glaze
GINGER AND GARLIC TEMPURA PRAWNS Tempura prawns served with salad and a sweet chilli dip
GARLIC MUSHROOMS (V) Breaded Garlic Mushrooms served with mixed leaf salad and garlic dip
SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD Smoked Chicken and Bacon salad with a honey and mustard dressing
SENIOR CITIZEN MENU
2 Courses £12.50 3 Courses £15.00 MENU AS SHOWN ABOVE
Mains
ROAST BEEF With home-made Yorkshire pudding and pigs in blankets ROAST TURKEY Served with cranberry & chestnut stuffing and pigs in blankets
FULL RACK OF RIBS Pork ribs with a special Jack Daniels BBQ sauce, coleslaw and chips STUFFED CHICKEN Oven baked chicken breast stuffed with stilton and wrapped with bacon, served with port & cranberry sauce GRILLED SWORDFISH STEAK Served with a creamy lemon and white wine sauce
GENOVESE PESTO PASTA (V) Green pesto penne pasta with Parmesan shavings and garlic bread All mains served with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables
CHRISTMAS DAY 3 Course Meal £59 Children £20
Advance booking only / pre-order required Menu & pre-order form can be found on our website
LIVE MUSIC at
Desserts
TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS PUDDING Served with brandy sauce
TOFFEE PROFITEROLES CHEESECAKE Traditional cheesecake topped with profiteroles and indulgent toffee sauce
19th Dec Elvis Tribute 23rd Dec Mystery Live Act 31st Dec Janet James
LEMON MERINGUE PIE A slice of zingy lemon meringue pie served with fresh whipped cream BLACK FOREST GATEAUX A true favourite served with fresh whipped cream
STRAWBERRY PAVLOVA Chewy meringue, fresh cream, strawberries & topped with a mixed berry compote Followed by coffee and mints AFTER COFFEE CHEESEBOARD? Cheeseboard for two – £6
NEW YEAR’S EVE Canapés to Start 3 Course Meal
will appear in our
DECEMBER ISSUE Published: Thursday 24th November Deadline: Friday 11th November New Year Celebrations ... Burns Night ... CHRISTMAS / JANUARY ISSUE Published: Thursday 15th December Deadline: Friday 2nd December To book your advert in The Visitor
01963 351256
Or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Bottle of Prosecco between 2 Cocktail at Midnight
£30 Each
Advance booking only / pre-order required Menu & pre-order form can be found on our website
bookings Tel: 01747 840439 www.hunterslodgeinn.com
THE VISITOR November 2016 35
Welcome to
Aller • Langport TA10 0RA Christmas Day 2016 Menu
The MuDDLED MAN Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to
Lower Street, West Chinnock Tel: 01935 881235
Pre-Christmas Dinners Group Dinner Bookings 2 Courses + Coffee - £16 * 3 Courses + Coffee - £18
Game Casserole Sunday 18 th December Christmas Day Dinner
Drink on arrival, 7 Course Meal, Half Bottle of Wine - £60 10% OFF for groups of 10 or more • Children under 12 half price — Booking Essential —
Boxing Day Buffet - £15
Book early for Christmas Day & Boxing Day and RECEIVE A DISCOUNT “Our prices are frozen ... unlike our food which is fresh”
36 THE VISITOR November 2016
STARTERS Smoked tomato & red pepper soup, crispy basil leaves, roasted pine nuts & sour cream, served with crusty bread Shredded confit duck, pork and green onion rillettes, toasted sour dough bread, Cointreau & star anise sauce Smoked trout & prawn tian, wonton wafers, pickled cucumber, lime hollandaise Lemon sorbet amuse-bouche MAINS Roast West Country turkey, goose fat & thyme roast potatoes, bacon wrapped chipolatas, honeyed parsnips, seasonal vegetables & gravy Cannon of pork tenderloin, oxtail croquette, roasted vegetables & feta cheese, creamed potatoes, mulled cider jus Cod loin wrapped in pancetta, salsify puree, savoy cabbage, Lyonnaise potato, grain mustard & dill cream Pearl barley & wild mushroom risotto, sauté beetroot, wilted kale, basil oil SWEETS Traditional Christmas pudding, brandy sauce, vanilla ice cream Chocolate & cherry brownie, toffee ice cream, chocolate sauce Cinnamon apple tarte Tatin, clotted cream, passionfruit syrup petit fours and coffee
3 courses £59.50 per person • (children under 10 £29.00) 2 courses £49.50 per person • (children under 10 £24.00)
To include a cracker and a welcome drink of buck’s fizz or soft drink. A discretionary 10% service charge will be added to your bill.
01458 250469 E: info@oldpoundinn.com www.oldpoundinn.com
The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 8JW CHrISTMAS pArTY MENU Jerusalem Artichoke & Watercress Soup, parsnip Crisps Twice Baked goats’ Cheese Soufflé, Caramelised pear & Walnut Salad Creedy Carver Free range Duck Liver parfait red Onion Marmalade & Toast Crayfish & prawn Cocktail, Homemade Olive Focaccia ********** Tian of our own Free range Turkey Homemade Cranberry & Orange Sauce Individual Slow Braised port, Beef & Venison Short Crust pie Tarragon Mash, Caramelised Onions & Star Anise Jus Fire Morel Mushrooms & Chestnut Cottage pie Honey roasted Winter Vegetables Oven Baked Fillet of Hake, Saffron & Dill Cubettes roasted Fennel & red pepper Coulis ********** Our own Christmas pudding with Brandy Sauce Sticky Toffee pudding with Butterscotch Sauce & Vanilla Ice Cream rich Chocolate Torte with Homemade pistachio Ice Cream
STEAk NIgHT EVErY MONDAY 8oz Steak & Fries or Burger at £ 10 per head SIMpLE SUppEr EVErY TUESDAY Delicious 2 Course Set Menu for only £ 10 per head THUrSDAYS MOULES FrITES all you can eat £14
Christmas Spiced poached pear, Stem ginger Ice Cream & Almond Tuille
£25
10% DISCOUNT Monday Thursday
2016 NEW YEArS EVE MENU Antipasti plate with porchetta Terrine Square with Crackling Crunch Free range Duck pastrami, House Smoked Cheddar & Salami with Cheese Straws, Olives & Chutney Duo of Local Wild Venison, Thyme roasted Venison Steak on a potato Fondant, Venison rillete Cake over Braised Savoy Cabbage, Wild Mushroom Sauce Black Forest gateau with Homemade Cherry Chocolate Truffle & Cherry Shot glass of Bubbly Live Entertainment with Billy Boy Miskimmins & the Mercy Lounge Fireworks at Midnight by Euphoria Fireworks Free Taxis within 10 Mile radius by Crabb Taxis from Templecombe
£85
Saturday 5th November rACINg pACkAgE Brunch & glass of Champagne, Taxis to and from, premiere Enclosure Tickets, BBQ Supper & Fireworks back at the Monty £ 60 Saturday 5th November THE MONTAgUE INN FIrEWOrkS NIgHT The Legendary Monty Fireworks Extravaganza Adults £ 5, Under 14s £ 3 BBQ Hot Dogs, Burgers etc. will be available, ignition at 6.30
Telephone: 01749 813213 • Email: info@themontagueinn.co.uk www.themontagueinn.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2016 37
Crown &Victoria Mark & Isabel welcome you to the ...
Farm Street TINTINHULL Nr. YEOVIL • BA22 8PZ
CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2016
THIS MENU IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO PARTIES WHO HAVE PRE-BOOKED AND PRE-ORDERED £21.95 per person for 3 courses £18.95 per person for 2 courses
STARTERS
Spiced parsnip soup with vegetable crisps Potted smoked mackerel with horseradish remoulade and granary toast Chicken, pork, garlic and basil terrine with pumpkin chutney Pannéd wild mushroom and smoked cheddar risotto balls with carrot and cumin puree
MAINS
Roast Crown & Victoria turkey with sage and cranberry stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, gravy, port and cranberry sauce and fresh vegetables Brisket of beef with parsnip, carrots and swede, a rich gravy and garlic mash Pan fried salmon fillet with a pesto herb crust, dill cream sauce and saffron new potato cake Carrot, cashew and rice baked tian, fennel seed sauce, parmentiere potatoes and a mixed leaf salad
SWEETS
Homemade Christmas pudding served with brandy custard Chocolate fudge cake with vanilla ice cream Christmas spiced cheesecake with a raspberry sorbet A selection of Christmas cheeses with biscuits and a spiced pear chutney (£2.50 surcharge)
CHRISTMAS DAY MENU 2016
THIS MENU IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO PARTIES WHO HAVE PRE-BOOKED AND PRE-ORDERED £75 per person £37.50 for children under 12 years old Where possible our food is locally sourced and free range/ organic. It is freshly prepared and made here at The Crown & Victoria Inn. If you have any specific dietary needs please let us know. AA Rosette Award For Culinary Excellence 2014 / 2015
REAL LOG FIRE • BEAUTIFUL GARDENS • REAL ALES AMPLE PARKING • ENSUITE ACCOMMODATION
Bookings Tel: 01935 823341
Inn
Fax: 01935 825786 • Email: info@thecrownandvictoria.co.uk www.thecrownandvictoria.co.uk
Honey Roasted Parsnip Soup with Parsnip Crisps Game Terrine, Toasted Sourdough with Cranberry Chutney Smoked Salmon & Prawn Mousse with Cucumber & Caper Dressing Winter Salad with Beetroot, Candied Walnuts, Bath Blue & Wine Vinaigrette ***************************
Pancetta Wrapped Turkey Breast, Pinenut, Lemon & Sage Stuffing with a Pig in a Blanket Pheasant Breast, Celeriac Purée & Blackberry Sauce Festive Filo Parcel stuffed with Roast Chestnuts, Wild Mushrooms, Feta, Garlic & Thyme Pan Fried Seabass, Shallots, Samphire & Burr Blanc All served with Firehouse Roasties, Roasted Root Vegetables, Braised Red Cabbage & Brussel Sprouts ***************************
Lemon & Ginger Posset with a Firehouse Festive Biscuit Firehouse Christmas Pudding with a Somerset Cider Brandy Cream Chocolate & Orange Torte with Hazelnut Crumb West Country Cheese Board with Fig & Port Chutney *************************** Available Lunch & Dinner Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in December (1st − 24th) 2 Courses, Coffee & Festive Firehouse Fours £25 3 Courses, Coffee & Festive Firehouse Fours £30 Please book your table & pre-order on 01458 887447 or email: hello@thefirehousesomerset.co.uk
38 THE VISITOR November 2016
Christmas Party Menu 1st – 24th December £26 for 3 courses
Served lunch or dinner except Sundays & Mondays Pre-book for groups of 6 or more
Christmas Day Lunch Menu 12noon – 3pm £65 (children under 12 £30)
Traditional 5 course meal with Champagne welcome drink
New Year’s Eve Dinner 7pm – 10pm £40
With Kir Royale welcome drink Bookings: 01749 812180
ham A d n y W rm e h s T Real Ales
Draught Ciders
KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK TA12 6AT
Welcome to the Wyndham Arms Christmas Menu 2016 Christmas Lunchtime Menu
STARTERS Homemade Sweet potato and Butternut Squash Soup (GF without bread) (V) served with crusty bread Deep Fried Whitebait with tartar sauce Wild Mushroom and Chicken Liver Terrine served with warm toast and cranberry sauce
MAIN COURSES Roast Turkey served with all the trimmings Roast Topside of Somerset Beef served with homemade Yorkshire pudding Salmon Fillet served with hollandaise sauce, new potatoes and steamed broccoli parsnip, Chestnut and Cranberry Loaf (V) served with a creamy leek and cheese sauce DESSERTS Dark Chocolate and Caramel Cheesecake served with cream Christmas pudding served with brandy custard Mixed Berry Eton Mess served with chestnut sauce
COFFEE & MINCE PIES 1 course £9.95 │ 2 courses £12.95 │ 3 courses £16.95 │ 4 courses £19.95
Christmas Evening Menu
STARTERS Homemade Spiced Sweet potato Soup (GF without roll) (V) served with a sour dough and onion roll Fig and Blue Cheese Salad (V) served with chestnut dressing and toasted nuts Smoked Mackerel Rillettes served on dressed cucumber with French toast pan-fried pigeon Breast served on mixed wild mushrooms with a redcurrant sauce MAIN COURSES Local Roast Turkey served with all the trimmings 8oz Rump Steak, cooked to your preference, served with sauté potatoes and cep mushroom sauce Slow Roasted pork Belly served on black pudding mash with a cider sauce and root vegetable crisps Three Cheese, pear and Rosemary Tart (V) served with roasted garlic potatoes Sea Bass Fillets, panfried and topped with prawns in a Garlic and parsley Butter served with new potatoes and steamed broccoli
DESSERTS Individual Luxury Christmas pudding served with brandy custard Millionaires Shortbread Cheesecake served with vanilla cream Winter Berry Crème Brûlée served with shortcake biscuits Somerset Cheeses served with a fig relish and cranberry and raisin toast
COFFEE & MINCE PIES 1 course £13.95 │ 2 courses £15.95 │ 3 courses £18.95 │ 4 courses £23.95 We use local Somerset & South West produce and suppliers whenever possible. We also offer Vegetarian and Gluten Free dishes marked either (V) or (GF) – the gravy used is gluten free. Please ask your server if you would like any more information or our allergen advice sheets. Please book early to avoid disappointment. All meals need to be pre-ordered 7 days before your booking.
We look forward to seeing you for your Christmas Celebration Rob, Linda and all the Staff at The Wyndham Arms.
Tel: 01935 823239
Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com
Starters
Neeps and tatties soup with whisky marinated chestnuts, served with honey oat bread Ham hock terrine served with crunchy piccalilli and sour dough bread Roasted butternut squash topped with grilled Taleggio cheese, with lemon and sage butter Cured dill gravadlax salmon placed on mustard dill mayonnaise, served with cucumber pappardelle Smoked duck salad with spiced dark plum compote and crunchy cos lettuce
Main Courses
Roast turkey with sausage meat and cranberry stuffing, served with roast potatoes, sausage wrapped in bacon, gravy, bread sauce and fresh vegetables Guinea fowl with redcurrant jus, served with a pancetta bean bundle, dauphinoise potatoes and fresh vegetables Cod loin steak with a herb crust and tomato and Pernod flavoured sauce, served with a side salad and new potatoes Colombian espresso and herb rub rump steak sat on dauphinoise potatoes and rich Madeira sauce, served with fresh vegetables Broccoli and leek stir fry with smoked cheese, served in a Savoy cabbage parcel with red and yellow pepper sauce, new potatoes and side salad
Desserts
Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Peanut butter cheesecake with cranberry jam Chocolate truffle terrine with caramelised Grand Marnier oranges and vanilla cream Caramelised pear and salted caramel tart with clove ice cream Cheese and port - Wookey hole cave aged cheddar, Dorset Blue Vinny, Sharpham’s Devon Brie, spiced chutney and biscuits
Two Courses £19.50 Three Courses £26
The
Lord Nelson
Rectory Lane, Norton Sub Hamdon Yeovil, Somerset, TA14 6SP Tel: 01935 881473
THE VISITOR November 2016 39
Careline - 24 hour help at the touch of a button
Worrying about being alone or feeling at risk could be a thing of the past for elderly or vulnerable residents, thanks to the South Somerset District Council-run Careline service. The Careline service provides an emergency alarm pendant that can be worn at all times, which links to a control centre where Emergency Control Centre staff are on hand to answer calls 24
hours a day, 365 days a year. Many elderly and vulnerable residents are already benefitting from the reassurance that help is at hand at the push of a button, and relatives can enjoy peace of mind. The Careline staff are fully trained to respond to calls from those in need, with experience in handling thousands of calls a year from the elderly and frail, the disabled, the young and vulnerable, recovering hospital
patients and those working or living in isolation. They can call a doctor or an ambulance, the police or friends and family within seconds of a Careline button being pushed. A free demonstration is offered and, if you are happy with it, staff can fit the unit for you immediately. To find out more on how Careline can help, contact 01935 479815 or visit the new website www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk
Reed & Russell
When it comes to Christmas arrangements and fresh Christmas flowers, there is nothing quite like the wonderful displays created by the florists at Reed & Russell Flowers. Fresh arrangements created to meet your brief, using wonderful long lasting flowers and foliage. Choose a traditional style or contemporary design. Why not
include Christmas wreaths to compliment your festive decorations for a front door statement or any other room! Stylish artificial arrangements a re a n a lte rna t i v e , cre a t e d especially for each client and the beauty of these is they will last for years to come. Reed & Russell can arrange to send flowers all over the UK and worldwide via their premium relay system, or delivery locally from their Wincanton premises. Furthermore, why not take the hassle out of Christmas. Reed & Russell in conjunction with Superplants, can arrange the rental of fully decorated premium grade fresh or artificial Christmas trees from 5ft to 15ft for your home or business. Contact the team at Reed & Russell Flowers at 11 Church Street, Wincanton on 01963 32367 or Superplants on 01963 34842 for decorated tree enquiries.
Bespoke • Corporate • Events Parties • Weddings • Sympathy Local & Nationwide Deliveries
01963 32367
11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA
For a wonderful festive floral display contact Reed & Russell in Wincanton.
South Somerset Careline gives that little extra support to people who want to remain living at home independently for as long as possible while bringing peace of mind to their family and friends. Do you ... Live alone or sometimes feel at risk? Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents? Worry about their safety in an emergency? Want to help them maintain their independence?
Careline provides help at the touch of a button, which can be worn as a pendant or on a wrist strap, and dials through to our team 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. Through Careline, you can enjoy the independence of living in your own home, secure in the knowledge that emergency help or advice is available at your fingertips. We offer a free demonstration and if you are happy with it, our staff can fit the unit for you immediately.
Contact us on 01935 479815 careline@southsomerset.gov.uk www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk Initial connection / setup fee £32.85* Hire and monitoring £3.82 per week *waived if on certain benefits
40 THE VISITOR November 2016
Make your own Christmas Gifts! Soft toys, hot water bottle covers, necklaces, hats, bags and more. Free patterns when you buy your yarn from Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts. Don’t miss the next demonstration day on Saturday 3rd December, ‘Make Your Own Christmas Card, Gift Wrap & Tags’, with demonstration decoupage cards, making your own tags for presents and how to wrap them to make them look extra special!
Pictured below: November a time for remembrance: this beautiful poppy jewellery collection is perfect any time of year. Now available from Ward & Sibley of Yeovil. Prices start from around £16.
A pastel portrait of a pet makes a wonderful gift. Pictured is a sample of the stunning work of Carole-Anne Adlington, call her today to arrange that special gift for Christmas.
A wonderful Christmas Gift
A portrait of your dog in pastels Contact C. A. Adlington
01749 813524
WARD & SIBLEY
pasteldogportraits.co.uk
The Jewellers of Yeovil
70
ESTABLISHED YEARS
Christmas all wrapped up!
Customer parking at rear of shop
Individual pieces of jewellery and exquisite gifts to suit all tastes and budgets
THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065
“ Where customer care comes first ”
THE VISITOR November 2016 41
Charles Hart
Charles Hart have been a family jewellers in Frome since the late 19th century (established in the Midlands in 1820). The company is still owned and run by Hart family members and are now one of the country’s longest established jewellery businesses. The store in Cheap Street is bright and inviting and whilst they have a huge range of vintage and antique jewellery, rings and watches, they also like to ensure that they cater for modern tastes too. Fashionable brands such as Annie Haak for example, and many well known watch houses too.
They offer a first class repair and valuation service, and their friendly staff are always on hand to give advice and help. Have a great day out in Frome and visit Charles Hart. Visit: www.charleshart.co.uk or www.vintagetom.co.uk
Filled to overflowing with pet requisites from toys and accessories, hutches and beds, feeds and bedding - whether your family pet has four legs or 2, feathered or furred they can supply your requirements. Free parking outside the door. Located on the Yeovil to Sherborne Causeway.
Cards for Good Causes, Charity Christmas Card Shop - Pops up in Yeovil.
Cards for Good Causes, the UK’s largest multi-charity Christmas card organisation, has opened its pop-up shop just inside the door of St. John’s Church, Yeovil. Staffed by volunteers, it sells Christmas cards and gifts for
Crossroads Pet Supplies
Bird feeders make a very acceptable Christmas gift that gives hours of pleasure whilst also feeding our feathered friends though the winter. At Crossroads there is a selection of feeders plus an extensive range of bird seeds and food to suit all birds.
Christmas Exhibition, 12th November 2016 - 24th January 2017. A mixed exhibition featuring work from: Ann Fagan - original prints, Holly Webb - handmade silver jewellery, Chris Kampf - garden sculptures. There are also lots of Christmas gift ideas in the pottery shop - from mugs, jugs, bowls and plates to casseroles, chicken bricks, sauce boats and more! Shop and gallery at Muchelney Pottery open Monday - Saturday, 9-1 and 2-5.
Timeless Elegance A huge range of antique pre-owned & vintage jewellery – online and instore –
CHARLES HART Jewellers since 1820
www.charleshart.co.uk www.vintagetom.co.uk
CHEAP STREET, FROME Tel: 01373 462089
Stockists of pre-owned Rolex watches 42 THE VISITOR November 2016
South Petherton
One World
Beautifully crafted laser engraved wooden gifts, personalised with your photo, design and/or your wording. Personalised oak or beech slab offer price £45. Living hinge personalised wooden bottle gift boxes, pictured above, normally £35, SPECIAL OFFER £29.99. Visit NM Graphics shop (opposite Wickes) in Yeovil.
more than 35 national and local charities including St. Margaret’s Hospice and Clic Sargent. The Christmas Cards are an important source of funding for charities, and help to raise awareness of their work. You can choose from an array of charity cards and Christmas essentials, including wrapping paper, tags and stocking fillers. This year’s local card is ‘Christmas at St John’s Church, Yeovil’ - taken by a local volunteer - and is available in packs of 5 or 10 cards from the shop. In the past ten years, charities received more than £40 million from Cards for Good Causes representing at least 70p in every pound out of which charities had to pay for the production and distribution of their Cards and any VAT.
materials to suit the amateur and the professional artist. There are plenty of gift ideas for Christmas too including painting sets, books and prints. Scenes offer an expert on-thepremises framing service with an extensive range of mouldings and mounts to choose from. Craft items are always in stock, including balsa wood. Why not make your own Christmas cards this year - Scenes stock all your card making requirements.
Join One World for mulled wine and mince pies on Sunday 27th November 2pm until 4pm. One World - such an interesting shop, with 6 showrooms over 2 floors stocked with beautiful and unique gifts from around the world - many fair trade. If you are looking for Christmas gift ideas then there are plenty at One World - warm winter scarves made from lambs or alpaca wool, extra soft bamboo socks, stunning silver jewellery, glass vases, and new in attractive candles from Swaziland. The children’s toy department has a wonderful choice of children’s traditional and soft
toys, including gifts for babies. There is always a good choice of stationery, cards for all occasions and diaries. Call in today and see for yourself.
Christmas Lights
On Sunday 27th November the festive spirit will be awoken in South Petherton with the switching on of the village Christmas lights. There will be lots going on all afternoon (2pm - 5pm). Most of the shops will be open with many having special offers, tasters and a mince pie or two a way of saying thank you for your custom and support over the past year. There will be stalls from local groups in the Blake
H.R. Hodge for all your TV requirements - now also stocking washing machines.
Scenes
Scenes of Gillingham have an extensive range of artists
AN IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT ...
Artist Materials • Tuition Books • Accessories Extensive Range of Prints, framed & unframed, wide choice of topics On-the-premises Framing Service
High Street, Gillingham Tel / Fax 01747 824050
email: scenesol@aol.com • www.scenes-online.co.uk
17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166
THE VISITOR November 2016 43
South Petherton Hall with activities, information and crafts, The Brewers Arms will be having their annual Christmas craft fair, The David Hall will be offering Christmas refreshments and live music, Burnworthy Care Home is opening their doors for the afternoon, Stoke Silver Band will be creating a festive atmosphere with Christmas music in the Market Square. And lots more! The switch on will happen at 4.30pm with the lantern parade afterwards, a short route is planned from the churchyard through Burnworthy gardens
www.littlethatchflorist.com
back to the Market Square, for those who wish to take part. Feel free to use your own lantern or make / purchase one on the day
- please for safety, no actual candles to be used - there are battery tealight candles available.
Flowers are always an acceptable gift. Amber Pritchard is pictured inside her Little Thatch premises, where you can find beautiful flowers and a selection of attractive gifts.
The David Hall
The David Hall in South Petherton is a popular venue for all types of entertainment. They have a full programme of events for November - here are just two of them: Saturday 5 November from 9.30am - 12.30pm a Craft Fair. Enjoy a relaxing morning wandering around the delightful stalls of their craft producers. Find a 'one of a kind' art work, great for that special Christmas present, or a treat for yourself. Free Entry. Stall Holders: £12 per table - to book, please call the Box Office on 01460 240340. NB: All booked tables must be paid for by Wednesday 2 November. Saturday 19 November at 8pm the Welsh band Calan, who can breathe fire into the old traditions with their infectious rhythms and high-voltage routines before melting into some of the most beautiful and haunting songs. Great fun, a sense of humour and step dancing from a champion dancer, makes for a great show. Tickets £18 Full, £17 Concessions.
Beautiful kitchens made in South Petherton
44 THE VISITOR November 2016
Just a glimpse of the new kitchen showroom of Eternal Kitchens of South Petherton.
Chic Seaside Style with the Corbiere Table Lamp
Autumn may be here with darker evenings but let your imagination take you to the seaside with the Corbiere Table Lamp by David Hunt Lighting. This beautiful table lamp is inspired by the sharp landscape of Corbiere lighthouse in Jersey. Shells collected from the surrounding beaches were used to create this stylish look which has a rich bronze resin finish. Corbiere is paired with the Relic shade, available in 12 silk colours and a choice of a white laminate or gold, silver and bronze metallic linings for a high end look. Founded in Birmingham in the late 1800s, David Hunt Lighting is one of Britain’s longest surviving lighting manufacturers.
House & Home
David Hunt Lighting has been based in the North Cotswold market town of Shipston on Stour for the past 100 years, and remains true to its traditional roots by employing a small team of highly skilled craftsmen.
Close your curtains at night
Closing curtains at night will prevent heat escaping through windows or doors. Thermal
curtains and thermal curtain linings help to keep the cold out on those blustery, wintery nights. They come in various thickness
How to feel warmer this winter
The clocks go back and temperatures drop, but not everything falls at this time of year: the cost of running your home can soar! Add this to the thought of dark nights closing in and it can feel like a depressing time. We hope that these easy tips can help to keep you cosy (and maybe even give you a fuzzy glow inside) this autumn/ winter.
TURNER WINDOWS
Suppliers & Installers of PVC-u & Aluminium Windows Doors and Conservatories ■ ■ ■ ■
FULL RANGE OF SERVICES ...
Replacement Windows Replacement Doors Conservatories Fascia / Soffit / Guttering
■ ■ ■ ■
Window Repairs Handles / Hinges Misted Up Units Secondary Glazing
Corbiere Table Lamp - £150.00 (excl. VAT), Relic shade with bronze lining - £61.50 (excl. VAT). www.davidhuntlighting.co.uk
ACF WINDOWS
A WINNING TEAM QUALITY PRODUCTS ... All products adhere to
ANDY FELTHAM
UPVC REPLACEMENT WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES, WOODEN FRAMED WINDOWS, FASCIA BOARDS, CLADDING, GUTTERING, ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS ETC.
The Old Well House Shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GILLINGHAM, Dorset SP8 5HX Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344
“I just wanted to thank you and the team for the excellent service I have experienced whilst having my doors and windows replaced. Firstly your product is excellent the solid construction and the positive locking mechanism have really solved a soundproofing problem and as a bonus I am looking forward to reduced heating bills this winter. Your fitters on site were brilliant, they kept the place clean and tidy and were very careful when working around existing tiles which as you know I was concerned about. It’s a major consideration and worry to hand over your keys when you cannot be around for the fitting but I need not have had any concerns as from start to finish everything was carried out with the upmost professional manner.” Kelv Gibbs – October 2014
as endorsed by Celebrity World Snooker Champion Steve Davis ... AND PERSONAL SERVICE Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to our Site Showroom in Somerton. CALL today for a FREE no obligation quote
Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd
Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB
Call: 01458 272555 www.turnerwindows.co.uk
THE VISITOR November 2016 45
levels, suitable for any room. There are a lot of proven benefits for having thermal curtains in your home, including saving you money on your heating bills. Thermal curtains are proven to reduce draughts coming into your room, keeping it warmer. Choosing a thermal curtain lining can also prove beneficial as they also have a thermal coating which provides maximum insulation.
Make your own soup
All too often we buy fresh vegetables and find that by the time we come to use them they are not at their best. This is especially true if you live alone
House & Home
as many things come in packets of two or more and it is difficult to consume it in time. Why not make your own soup? It can be a cheap way to keep warm, feel full and get great nutrition. Freeze some of your batch on the day you make it; then you can enjoy it on a day you don’t have time to cook and your vegetables won’t go to waste! Many recipes can be found online or in cookery books.
The process of cooking your own meals will help keep your home warm too!
Have warm drinks
Holding a mug of warm liquid is like holding a hand warmer. If you don’t want to consume caffeine too near to bedtime, why not drink fruit or herbal tea or
even some warm cordial in the evening! With so many exciting flavours on the market there is sure to be something that is your ‘cup of tea’!
Light a fire (or a few candles)
An open fire or log burner can be an excellent way to heat your home. It also creates a cosy
Eat well
Even if you’re not a fan of soup it is important to eat well, particularly at this time of year. Many supermarkets have leaflets in store and online regarding the cheapest ways to eat healthily.
Bryan G. Paulley Ltd
Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements
Plastic / Metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / Moving / Disposal Above or Below Ground Tanks • 24 Hour Call-Out
Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 office@bgp-oiltanks.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk
Unit 11, Brickfields Business Park, gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4PX Tel: 01747 826714 • www.townandcountryaerials.co.uk
Ask about our SKY PACKAGES – ideal for Christmas! As your Local Sky Expert we can offer you exclusive savings on your first year’s subscription to Sky TV – don’t go online, come and speak to us first!
The Seattle range new in at Fit & Furnish available in a choice of 12 Farrow & Ball colours, including grey.
SUITES FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY! SAVE £ 200
Get the most from your Smart TV We can help with ...
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Commercial installation - multipoints e.g. flats, holiday parks, care homes, etc. Panasonic TVs supplied and installed
WE COVER YOUR AREA ...
46 THE VISITOR November 2016
SPECIAL OFFER until Christmas £1199 .99 Just one of many savings – see instore for more offers
SOFA BEDS DININg SETS BEDS BEDROOM FURNITURE MIRRORS & MORE
Work in conservation areas, listed buildings, etc.
Yeovil, Sherborne, gillingham, etc.
The Malvern Recliner 3 Seater Sofa + 2 Chairs rrp £1399 .99
Your local Sky expert
ambiance that many of us enjoy. Even if you don’t have a fire, lighting candles will give you some warmth. You may even be surprised at the difference it can make. Many shops sell a wide variety of coloured, shaped and scented candles, so you can make your home look and smell wonderful at the same time! Never leave any fire unattended, do not light near materials such as curtains and be sure to take all recommended safety precautions.
Wear socks (and the rest)
Even though many of us have our homes carpeted throughout, the addition of a pair of warm socks is well worth it. You can pick up a pair of fleecy socks fairly cheaply, but if you’re feeling flush you can buy very luxurious woollen versions. Socks aren’t the only thing you’ll need of course. Before turning the dial up on the thermostat, make sure you’re wearing appropriate clothing. To keep warm go for thin and warm items and layer them up.
House & Home
Move more
Get your circulation going by moving. Even simple and gentle movements will help with this, but don’t start exercising without checking with your doctor first.
Keep your home at a safe temperature
The Met Office advises that homes be heated to at least 18˚C as a guideline. This temperature may be slightly too high or slightly too low depending on your personal preference or circumstance. See www.metoffice.gov.uk for more details.
Sweet dreams
Investing in a winter duvet, or simply introducing an extra sheet to your bed, can help keep you warmer during the night. It is also important to wear warm nightwear; you may even wish to keep those cosy socks on!
Socialise
Keeping your house cosy is an unexpected yet great reason to
Flooring by Karndean, available from Cullingford Carpets, Wincanton.
THE VISITOR November 2016 47
spend time with your loved ones. People generate heat, so if your home is a hive of activity your nearest and dearest are helping to keep it warm! If, however, your social life takes you out and
House & Home
about, it is also doing you a favour: if you’re out chances are your lights will be too! For further information, you may wish to visit www.metoffice.gov.uk or www.spreadthewarmth.org.uk
Draught-Proofing
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to save energy – and money – in any type of building. Both draughts and ventilation
let fresh air into your home, but good ventilation helps reduce condensation and damp. Draughts are uncontrolled: they let in too much cold air and waste too much heat. To draught-proof your home you should block up unwanted gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. Saving warm air means you’ll use less energy to heat your home, so you'll save money as well as making your home snug and pleasant.
How much could you save by draught-proofing?
Draught-proofing around windows and doors could save you £25 to £50 per year. Draught-free homes are comfortable at lower temperatures – so you’ll be able to turn down your thermostat. This could save you another 10 per cent off your heating bill.
Where to look for draughts
Bring your memories
to life ... an ideal Christmas Gift
We can transfer cinefilm, slides, photos, camcorder, and memory cards to DVD & Blu-ray!
Call in to discuss your requirements
Stock up on batteries this winter SPECIAL PROMOTION High quality AA and AAA GP alkaline batteries - 24 for only £5 Whilst stocks last
Recycle your old batteries in store
Mobile Entertainment!
New in Avtex low voltage TVs 16, 19, 21, 24 and 32-inch 3 Year Warranty Freeview Satellite DVD player etc. 12 volt, 24 volt and mains
Ideal for those on the move – e.g. mobile homes ON THE PREMISES WORKSHOP
DO CALL IN SALES – SERVICE – REPAIR Greenhill • Sherborne • Dorset • DT9 4EW 01935 813451
“Where the customer comes first”
48 THE VISITOR November 2016
Draughts happen where there are unwanted gaps in the construction of your home, and where openings are left
ORDER NOW!
... TO ENSURE FITTING FOR CHRISTMAS
■ Carpets ■ Vinyls ■ Naturals ■ Woods ■ Laminates ■ Tiles Also in store MMS SoftWincanton Furnishings Curtains & Fabrics ■ Blinds ■ Roll Stock ... vinyls & carpets now available
Stair Runners by Roger Oates
★ Free Estimate ★ Free Measuring ★ Professional Fitting by our own Expert Fitters ★ Friendly and Personal Service ★ Competitive Prices “Just nice people to do business with”
SJH CARPETS, Southgate Road, Wincanton 01963 824418 Also at: High Street, Tisbury 01747 871178
AP Kitchen Solutions
Fire Station
Lidl
Morrisons
Southgate Road n
Valor is one of Britain’s muchloved brands and one of the most recognised names in home heating. In 1890 Valor first began
of today’s modern lifestyles. Meticulously designed to suit the many different requirements of UK homes and chimney configurations, Valor’s latest collection of fires boasts a range
the UK. Valor’s reputation is built on reliability, trust and safety and this stems from their unswerving commitment to create energy efficient heating solutions that surpass the needs
.T ow
Valor Fires
manufacturing oil storage cylinders in a small factory in Ludgate Hill, Birmingham and today offers one of the largest portfolios of gas and electric fires and electric suites available in
Wi nc
uncovered. You’ll find draughts at any accidental gap in your home that leads outside, such as: windows, doors – including keyholes and letterboxes, loft hatches, electrical fittings on walls and ceilings, suspended floorboards, pipework leading outside, ceiling-to-wall joints. You should block most of these – but be careful in areas that need good ventilation, such as: areas where there are open fires or open flues or rooms where a lot of moisture is produced, such as the kitchen, bathroom and utility room. If you’re happy carrying out simple DIY tasks, draughtproofing will be no problem. If you’re not sure what to use, your local hardware store will know exactly the right materials to use and where to use them.
House & Home
Tythings Centre
NEW SJH
OLD SJH
FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN
VISIT OUR EXTENSIVE TILE SHOWROOMS
Quality Floor & Wall Tiles NOW STOCKING Kerakoll Grouts & Adhesives
Kitchens replaced for a fresh new look – at a reasonable price
Complete new kitchens designed to suit you
Replacement doors – “don’t replace it, reface it”
Huge choice of granite and quartz worksurfaces Full range of accessories and appliances
Full project management & qualified local installers We offer an expert and friendly service
01935 849559
To discuss your personal requirements contact Adam or call at our showroom
Northover, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LD www.apkitchens.co.uk
Grespania Tiles
Waxman Tiles & Mosaic Collection
Distributors of Porcelanosa and other leading brands Professional fitting service
Free Measuring & Estimate Design Advice
Supply & Fit or Supply Only Full Range of Sanitary Ware, Basins, Baths, etc.
CALL IN TODAY
PUBLIC & TRADE WELCOME
Open: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm Saturday Free parking outside the shop
J2 Tiles, Unit 16, Venture 20 (Opposite Wickes)
Lynx West Trading Estate YEOVIL, BA20 2HP
01935 472088 · www.j2tiles.co.uk
THE VISITOR November 2016 49
House & Home
of installation options and designs styles to suit every need, pocket and lifestyle. In recognition of their endeavours to reduce carbon emissions and running costs through ground-breaking gas fire technology, Valor received the prestigious Queen’s Award for
Industry in 2009 for their bestselling Homeflame gas fire range. All Valor gas and electric fires are quality tested to rigorous standards, and all are made in accordance with Quality Management System Standard BSI 9001. In the case of gas fires this even includes a gas
NOVEMBER ...
1st 2nd 4th 6th 9th 16th 18th 19th 22nd 25th 25th 27th 30th
FOLK NIGHT - Catash, North Cadbury BLUES NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne FLATLAND BOOGIE BAND - Crown Inn, Sherborne BAD DOG NO BISCUIT - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon JAZZ NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne FOLK NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne AC/DC Tribute Show HELLS BELLS - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil BAD EDUKATION - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon HELLO HOPEVILLE - Crown Inn, Sherborne MUTTER SLATER - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil LIVE MUSIC - Nuova Italia, Ilchester ROSS KIRK - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon OPEN MIC’ NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne
AN ADVERT IN THE PUB PAGES ENSURES A FREE MENTION HERE!
50 THE VISITOR November 2016
The Valor Inspire 800 Fireslide. For more information visit www.valor.co.uk
Bespoke Curtains, Blinds, Cushions A wide selection of fabrics from ...
Clarke & Clarke Prestigious iLiv Fibre Naturelle ... and more – or supply your own
SHOWROOM at SJH CARPETS Tythings Commercial Centre, Wincanton Tel: 01963 824418 Open: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm and ...
Saturday 9am – 1pm
The Workshop has moved! For workshop measures and enquiries
Contact Melody on: 07883 089333
or email: salesmmssoftfurnishings@aol.co.uk
House & Home
soundness test. All their gas fires come complete with a flame safety device, OxySafe, that cuts off the gas in the unlikely event that the pilot light becomes extinguished, and a wealth of other safety features. New for 2016, the Valor Inspire 800 Fireslide can be customised effortlessly into your home with a choice of liner and trim options. It features duo burner technology creating heat of 4.6kW and an efficiency of 80%, and produces both radiant heat and convected heat, creating a cosy atmosphere. For the full range of Valor Inspire fires visit www.valor.co.uk
A super selection of haberdashery always available at MMS Soft Furnishings, Wincanton.
Livingstone Textiles Opens in Yeovil
Good news for sewers and homemakers this month, with the opening of a new fabric and haberdashery store in Yeovil. Livingstone Textiles, long established in Bridport, has opened a second store in the Manor Stables building opposite the Octagon Theatre. It is located off Hendford near the Petters Way car park. Spread over two floors, with customer parking and full disabled access, the shop is bright and welcoming. Livingstones have re-employed three members of staff formerly at Beales, who recently closed their haberdashery department. Livingstone Textiles stocks a wide range of fabrics for dressmaking, crafts, curtain making and upholstery. They have an extensive haberdashery selection and make curtains and blinds to measure. For more information, visit www.livingstonetextiles.com or telephone 01935 422631.
For your comfort & independence
Walk-in baths/showers (low & level access)
Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets
Slip resistant safety flooring Discounts for over 60s and military veterans
Wet rooms
Easy clean panelling/tiling Extensive design choice VAT exemptions (conditions apply)
Local family run business
* This advert must be presented at time of order. Voucher will be sent within 30 days of bathroom completion.
THE VISITOR November 2016 51
SHEPTON MALLET business focus
Shepton Brasserie
Shepton Brasserie is pleased to announce they are offering a delicious Christmas Menu throughout December – available
both lunch time and evenings* (*Thursday, Friday and Saturday only unless otherwise requested). There is a vegetarian option and any dietary
requirements can be accommodated with prior notice. The menu is priced at £17.50 for 2 courses and £21.50 for 3 courses to include festive crackers, full menu on request. Parties of up to 50 can be catered for. (Closed Christmas Day). Shepton Brasserie is conveniently situated at the top of the town within the Haskins Complex, with ample free parking. They are open seven days a week offering a delicious seasonal menu imaginatively presented. Whether you are meeting friends for coffee and cake or celebrating with cocktails and an evening meal – The Shepton Brasserie is well worth a visit. See their website for full menu details: www.shepton mallet brasserie.co.uk
Repxotics
Kinver Cane have a wonderful choice of cane furniture on display: find them within Haskins Store at Shepton Mallet. They currently have promotions on including fabric upgrades. Call in and see for yourself.
KINVER CANE FURNITURE
Autumn Promotion SAVE up to £100
Any Grade of Fabric at ‘A’ Grade (Lowest) Price Free Fabric Upgrade plus ... Free Scatter Cushion Per Seat Worth £25 Each
call in for full details and other instore promotions at Haskins Furniture, Shepton Mallet 01749 342838
Repxotics have a comprehensive range of cold water and tropical fish at competitive prices, plus tanks and accessories. Start up kits are available - an ideal Christmas gift. Captive, locally bred Hermann and Marginated tortoises are on sale. Other exotic creatures for sale include chameleons, snakes and own bred geckos. Proving a popular pet, due to low maintenance, is the tarantula spider - of which there are a wide range in stock, from babies through to adults. Repxotics are pleased to advise on the care of all the animals they sell, such as the right environment, food etc. If you have an exotic pet/reptile that needs looking after whilst you are on holiday, they can help. For a party or talk with a difference why not book a Repxotics party - call in for full details.
Moggs of Wells (Enginering) Ltd.
We offer genuine, impartial and enthusiastic advice about a wide range of garden machinery from several manufacturers, so that you can make the right choice for your particular needs. We believe we stock some of the best quality machines available which will give you reliable and faithful service for many years. All new machines are fully assembled by ourselves, including petrol and oil, and are properly tested before they leave our workshop. We can deliver your new machine if required, and give you a full explanation of the controls, and how to get the best out of your new purchase. Our fully equipped workshop can service your machine, carry out repairs, and perform any warranty work required, so you may rest assured that when you walk out of our showroom, you walk into our care. Workshop … It is our prime objective to keep your garden machinery properly serviced so that it is a pleasure to use and will work to the best of its ability. Our workshop is filled with an array of tools and specialist equipment to keep your machine in top condition. We have direct access to manufacturers’ Service & Parts Manuals, Service Bulletins and all the latest technical information – in addition, we regularly attend various Service Courses and Dealer Days to ensure that we know the best ways to service and repair your machinery. Unless out of production, we always use genuine parts – quality without question.
Shepton Brasserie
Supporting and Serving Local, Quality Produce
Kids parties with a difference!
REPTILE PARTIES
OPEN DAILY SERVING Morning Coffee * Homemade Cakes * Breakfast * Lunch * Afternoon Tea
Meet Gil the Burmese Python and Herbie the Tortoise plus Spiders, Scorpions and more
Learn about these interesting reptiles complete with a handling session! Also available for school visits, social groups, residential homes, scouts etc.
Sundays Traditional Roasts 2 course £15.95 * 3 course £19.95
OPENING TIMES: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 9.00am until 5.00pm Thursday Friday and Saturday 9am until 9pm Sunday 10.00am until 4.00pm
TO BOOK YOUR PARTY Tel: 01749 938082 Repxotics, 17 Town Street, SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 5BE ... or visit website www.repxotics.co.uk
52 THE VISITOR November 2016
——— Thursday, Friday & Saturday ——— Cocktails and Tapas from 5.30 * Dinner from 7.00 bookings only
Bookings 01749 343579 64 High Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 5AX
Email: sheptonbrasserie@yahoo.co.uk • www.sheptonbrasserie@yahoo.co.uk (Within Haskins complex – ample free parking)
Garden Machinery SALES SERVICE REPAIRS
Unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave, SHePtoN MAllet, BA4 4NB tel: 01749 343881 • www.moggsofwells.com
AUTUMN SPECIALS
Cub Cadet CSV060 Chipper / Shredder / Vacuum
5.5hp petrol engine, chips branches up to 4cm in diameter, vacuums up and shreds fallen leaves as you push it along or use the hand-held hose, almost new £330
Toro 51594 Mains Electric Vacuum / Shredder / Blower
Vacuums up leaves or simply blows them out of the way, NEW
Hayter R53S 21" 3 in 1 Rotary Mower
£99
NEW Briggs & Stratton 6hp electric start engine, will mulch, collect or discharge clippings, selfpropelled with variable drive, fully reconditioned
£355
Rear roller driven, blade brake / clutch (no having to re-start when emptying the grassbag) 6hp Subaru engine, shaft drive transmission
£799
Pre-owned machine, fully reconditioned, Briggs & Stratton 14hp engine, hydrostatic drive (no gears), 240 litre grassbox
£999
Pre-owned machine, fully reconditioned, NEW Briggs & Stratton 13hp engine, transmatic drive (variable speed, semi-automatic), side discharge, mulching option available
£799
Lawnflite Pro 448SJR 19" Rotary Mower Lawnflite 604 GLH 30" Lawn Tractor MTD RS125/96 38" Lawn Tractor
Cub Cadet CC46 SPBEV 18" Rotary Mower
5hp electric start Briggs & Stratton engine, variable drive speed, mulch or collect clippings, brand NEW with 3 year warranty
£499
Don’t leave it until the Spring and find it doesn’t work! Instead, take advantage of our 10% DISCOUNT on winter servicing and book your machine(s) into our workshop now!
As always, Nigel and Helen will be pleased to attend to your needs, we can collect and deliver the larger machines, and you will receive a 10% discount off the total cost. Personal callers are most welcome to look round our showroom at a selection of quality new machines too. If you want a particular machine not on show, we can usually obtain it for you. To book, please return the coupon below, or contact us via our website. We look forward to hearing from you.
Your Name ............................................................... Your Machine(s) ....................................................... .................................................................................. ..................................................................................
Address .................................................................... ..................................................................................
.................................................................................. ................................................................................ Postcode ............................................................. Collection Required (Yes / No) ................
THE VISITOR November 2016 53
SHEPTON MALLET business focus
Ridgeway Garage
If you are looking for a reliable secondhand car then pop along to Ridgeway Garage, situated on the Ridgeway Estate to the south of the town near Mendip District Council, in Kingsland Road. A family run business established for over 40 years you can be sure of helpful and professional service. All cars come with a new MOT, a Service, Cam Belt replacement if required and a warranty. Part exchange is welcome, finance is available if required and credit cards are also taken. Should you be looking for a particular make/model of car they will be happy to try and source it for you.
REGISTERED OSTEOPATH
TREVENEN PASCOE BSc. (Hons.) Ost. Med. ND.
Cranial & Structural Osteopathy
42 High Street SHEPTON MALLET Somerset BA4 5AS 01749 342594
This attractive stone planter is one of the most popular from Shepton Classic Stone. It looks lovely planted with colourful plants anytime of the year.
Visit www.ridgeway-garage.com or give them a call. Stock changes regularly.
Suttons Stairlifts
As we get older, climbing stairs, walking, and getting up from an armchair can become more difficult. Along with stairlifts, Suttons also offer a range of mobility scooters
and rise and recline chairs to make life easier for you. You can choose from a single motor or a dual motor recliner. All of their recliners have the full lift and rise facility as well as the recline option. To find out more visit Suttons Stairlifts on the Anglo Trading Estate, Shepton Mallet.
RIDGEWAY GARAGE Family run business - established over 40 Years
For quality used cars at affordable prices - PART EXCHANGE WELCOME -
CleAN CARS BoUGHt foR CASH - lICeNSeD CReDIt BRokeR
Kingsland Road, SHEPTON MALLET • Tel: 01749 342938 www.ridgeway-garage.com
Jackie at D. R. Carpets will be pleased to help you on your choice of flooring from their large range. (D. R. Carpets is situated at Evercreech Junction between Shepton Mallet and Castle Cary).
D. R. CARPETS
Carpets Vinyls Wood Flooring Natural Flooring including Sisal and Seagrass
SAFETY FLOORING / WET ROOM SPECIALIST Domestic & Commercial – Supplied & Fitted
54 THE VISITOR November 2016
Showroom 1, Evercreech Junction, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6NA Tel: 01749 831578 Email: jac.w@hotmail.co.uk www.dr-carpets.co.uk
Indian Summer
Our love of all things spicy can be traced back as far as the Crusades, so it is no wonder that Chicken Tikka Masala topped the UK charts as our most popular food for almost a decade; it is still the most popular dish ordered in Indian restaurants. From the 16th century onwards, travellers to India often returned with their servants and it was inevitable that they would want to try to recreate the spicy foods enjoyed on their travels. Commercial spice mixes similar to modern day curry powder became readily available, appearing in British cookery books from the 1780s. In 1960 there were just 500 Indian restaurants in the UK, now there are close to 10,000; virtually every town has one, or more. It is one of our biggest industry sectors, contributing billions of pounds to the British economy. The popularity of Indian cuisine gave me food for thought on my recent visit to India, where I jumped at the opportunity to go vineyard hopping. Sadly, many wine enthusiasts remain unaware of the wide variety of wines now being made in India. There are now around 100 producers, many supported by top European winemakers, who have invested money and expertise in support of this burgeoning industry, giving some exciting results, Many of the wines are now scooping up international awards. Although the Indian wine industry is still in its infancy, this is changing, in part due to a venture started by Vikrant Holkar, son of a Nashik winemaker. India now has its first ever Wine Park and Information Centre, Vinchur. Focusing on wine education, with plans for a wine museum too, it is all set to ensure the Indian wine industry gains the international recognition it deserves. Vikrant is passionate and knowledgeable and I was delighted to accompany him on tastings during my visit to the area. Many wineries now offer tours and tasting sessions and we visited six vineyards, although I confess to tasting wines from many more, sampling 44 wines in just three days! Whilst vineyards are in areas as far afield as the Kashmir Valley in the north and Bangalore
Wine & Dine
in the south, most are in the west, as it is too hot elsewhere for vines to grow. The Deccan Plateau is the predominant production centre, and I visited Nashik in the north of this area, in Maharashtra State, 100 miles east of Mumbai. It is where most of the up and coming wineries have laid their foundations. Until now the focus has been on planting native French grape varieties, but some diversity and the use of indigenous varieties is beginning to creep in as winemakers gain confidence. The Nashik region is an area plagued by torrential storms, particularly during the first two months of the monsoon season. These inclement weather conditions have meant that winemakers have been forced to ad op t unus ual winem a king practices by putting the vines into dormancy to delay harvest until the dry season in January. Labour is cheap, so many of the processes, mechanised in larger more modern operations, are still done manually; all grapes are hand harvested, ensuring greater control over quality, and often at night to avoid high daytime temperatures. This focus on producing world class wines is borne out by the fact that two of our top supermarket chains have been quietly stocking Indian wines for some time now. Online sales outlets have also expanded the range to choose from, all at prices that won’t break the bank too. Many of the wines provide the perfect match for a curry, but they also stand up well on their own, or with other cuisines. One winemaker who has been leading the change and the drive for quality is Kanwal Grover, owner of the Grover Zampa vineyard. Now approaching 30 years in winemaking, his wines are much sought after, stocked by Waitrose and selling out in record time. This picturesque sloping vineyard is also a selected stopover for travellers with top tour company Cox & Kings.
Ritu Viognier 12.5% £6.99
This crisp white has aromas of white flowers, ripe peach and fresh apricot.
Zampa Syrah 12.5% £8.49
This is a peppery dark red with
rich blackberry and black cherry flavours, with a warm spicy finish.
Under ‘The Jewel of Nasik’ label M&S stocks three wine blends made especially for them by Sula Vineyards, currently the major player in the field, with 60% of market share. The wines are fruity and fresh with the intention of capturing their varietal characteristics.
‘Jewel of Nasik’ Sauvignon Blanc 13% £5.50
This dry white, bursting with green mango, lychee, sweet basil, greengage and gooseberry flavours is crisp, with a fresh citrusy note, making it a good match for coconut milk-based curries.
‘Jewel of Nasik’ Tempranillo/Shiraz 13% £7
Bold enough to stand up well to a spicy hot rogan josh, this combination of 70% tempranillo, 30% shiraz is a rich, mediumbodied red with vivid dark cherry
and blackberry aromas, and engaging savoury notes on the palate.
‘Jewel of Nasik’ Zinfandel Rosé 11% £7
A deliciously aromatic, medium bodied rosé with a crisp, clean, floral palate and a hint of fruity strawberry sweetness. The bright, z ip p y f la v o u rs i n c lu d e r ip e watermelon, and mouth-watering cherry. A good match for tandoori chicken. I have not included vintages for these wines as they often sell out soon after release. Current vintages to look for are 2015 and 2016. Some wines will keep well for 2 to 3 years, especially the reds, but for most their fresh fruity style is intended for early consumption. LP-V.
Advertisements for our December & January Issues are now being taken 01963 351256
Festive Fizz Afternoon Tea Sandwiches
Smoked salmon, cream cheese & watercress Rare beef & horseradish Somerset Brie & black grape Free range egg & red amaranth
Savouries
Crispy prosciutto cup with sausage & sage stuffing Horseradish blini with buttered beetroot & smoked mackerel Crispy pastry cases filled with asparagus, quails egg & saffron aioli
Sweet Selection
Lightly spiced fruit scones with clotted cream & jumbleberry jam Mini frangipane mince pies Black Forest trifle in a shot glass Luscious clementine cake A glass of Bucks Fizz A pot of Twinings Tea
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Festive Savoury Canapés and Sweet Canapés £1.20 each * Minimum order of 12 per canapé choice
THE OLD BAKERY • HIGH STREET CURRY RIVEL • SOMERSET • TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 253357 • info@livingpretty.co.uk For more information please visit www.livingpretty.co.uk
THE VISITOR November 2016 55
The
Pub Pages
BE ER & SK ITTLE S P. A. BAXTER
'OH THIS YEAR I'm off to sunny Spain' (altogether!) 'Y Viva Espana'! Yes okay - that's enough! Those of us who can remember this little gem of a pop song from 1974 and 1975 will probably not want to hear it again - I know I certainly don't. Unfortunately every time I hear the word 'Spain' it sticks in my brain like the dreaded 'ear-worm'. Those heady days of the 70's were when the package trip to Spain was really 'taking off' and one could go to Benidorm and get everything that Blackpool offered, plus sunshine (and Watney's Red Barrel). Any mention of that ghastly near-beer sparks another memory; the Monty Python Travel Agent Sketch with Eric Idle rabbiting on and on about the trips to Spain whilst the poor travel agent (Michael Palin) sits at his desk getting more and more agitated by his potential customers' diatribe. So why are we banging on about Spain? Surely they are not known for 'Beer and Skittles'? The former I can honestly say I know absolutely nothing about, for I have never felt the
inclination to visit the place, probably having been put off for life by the experiences of my work colleagues of the time as Spain really did sound very much like Eric Idle's rant! To my surprise, however, two parts of the latter have come to light recently by fellow pub games enthusiast J a mes Ma s ters (of M a s te r s Games, manufacturer of the 'rings' board mentioned last month) who has discovered that not only are there more than forty variations of the beloved game here, but it is home to the only skittle museum in the world! Interestingly, in many of the variations and particularly in the North only the female of the species indulge in the sport, they play outdoors, and as incredible as it may seem to us, the game takes place in the side-streets where the diamond for the pins is marked right there in the road. (The game as us West County folk know it is played outdoors in the Dover league, although I suspect the Spanish weather makes it more pleasurable). Meanwhile in the North-East of Spain there lies Campo, a small town in the county of Ribagorza, in the province of Huesca, in Aragon. Situated in a valley between 2 rivers, the Esera and Rialbo, surrounded by snow-capped Pyrenean mountain peaks: most notably, the Turbón and Cotiella. All this is very nice and dandy, but the main interest to your writer is that here is situated the Museo de Juegos Tradicionales (Museum of Traditional Games), the centerpiece of which is an extensive collection of the beautiful game in its many varieties. Was it a coincidence that James Masters, whilst on holiday con la familia, found themselves here? The fact that visitors to the town are greeted on the outskirts by a sculpture of a huge skittle pin and ball may have made the family more than
The CROWN Inn
Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EP CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH Bookings now taken Christmas Party Menu also available
Friday
FISH ‘n’ CHIPS ... only £5
November Music
Wed 2nd: Blues Fri 4th: Flatland Boogie Band Wed 9th: Trad Jazz Wed 16th: Folk Wed 23rd: Hello Hopeville Wed 30th: Open Mic’
Tel: 01935 816115
56 THE VISITOR November 2016
Fridays 5.30 – 7.30 Selected PINTS ... only £2
Vinny and his friend helped to contribute towards the fantastic sum raised for the RSPCA at The Quicksilver Mail
a little suspicious! With the huge variations in the game throughout our green and pleasant land, perhaps it is time for the English to have a museum dedicated to the gentle art! It's always encouraging when visiting a pub, to see a woman drinking beer. I don't mean seeing someone tipping some fizzy chemical lager down the throat with the intension of getting completely newted as quickly as possible, but a lady drinking and clearly enjoying something of decent quality. I'm delighted to say my wife and daughters would each enjoy a good Belgian fruit beer as would some of their friends, just as it is acceptable in these more enlightened times to see females go into a pub unaccompanied, to meet friends, without any suspicion of any alternative intent. On occasion we have mentioned one of the first female beer sommeliers in this country, Annabel Smith, a lady who has done a great deal to help women think for themselves when it comes to choosing a drink in a pub rather than 'a small white wine for the lady?' as seemed to be the case in the past. She also holds food-
pairing evenings for women and that includes chocolate and beer (Yes, ladies, it really does work as my better half discovered a long time ago, which we later found out the Irish have been doing with stout since, forever!) I was somewhat shocked when reading an article by Ms Smith where she was recommending the scourge of all decent beerdrinkers, Bud! Manufactured in a factory by the Thames at Mortlake, London, my beer book collection variously describes this as 'A way of delivering alcohol to the brain without the intervention of taste' and 'Sells well throughout the world despite having virtually no taste' yet Ms Smith describes it as 'clean and crisp', as I would have thought beer should taste like, well, BEER! I truly feel this has blotted her copybook for I can honestly say, hand on Good Beer Guide, that no true beer enthusiast has ever given any kudos to this stuff. Speaking of decent beer, we were skittling recently where there were three well-kept ales on the pumps. The former 'Waggon and Horses' in Westbury, Sherborne, is known as 'The Weavers' as it was at one
The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH
Join us for ... DELICIOUS SUNDAY CARVERY – £8.95 FOLK NIGHT – 1st Tuesday of Month
O Bookings taken for ... CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU O 4 Courses and Coffee – £18.95 CHRISTMAS DAY CARVERY – £39.95
North Cadbury 01963 441531
The
Pub Pages
time the Marglass social club for workers at the sizeable factory complex at the junction with Horsecastles Lane. I kept to one, although I was assured by my companions that the other beers were good, my choice being a couple of pints of 'Flack's DoubleDrop' at a mere 3.7%ABV, from the Romsey brewery, Hampshire. I spoke to the friendly Simon at the brewery, who assures me their brewery utilises the 'Doubledrop' method on all of their beers. Personally, I was familiar with this method through beers from Marstons, i.e. Pedigree, where the beer is 'dropped' from one fermenter to another where it is allowed to continue fermenting. Clearly it takes up more room, so it is not so common these days, although those dedicated to their craft would appear to be less worried about that. How and why is it used then? During the double dropping process the beer is first fermented for a period of time before being transferred into a lower vessel where it continues fermentation. This dropping process has two effects on the beer being fermented. Firstly the dead yeast that has settled during the first period of fermentation will be left behind, which leaves a cleaner beer and a cleaner yeast for the next fermentation; the second effect is the aeration of the wort (the liquid containing the sugars) which results in healthy clean yeast growth, and in certain circumstances can even
induce butterscotch flavours. Look out for this one; The Double Drop is also seen as a guest beer in the 'Crown' and 'Digby Tap' in Sherborne, and look out for the Romsey name; I for one would certainly like to try more of their beers. A check of the Good Beer Guide lists 28 further breweries in Hampshire. What a choice! I have no doubt that CAMRA has had a massive impact on the change in attitude toward brewing and for the 'Campaign for the Revitalisation of Ale' - which was actually the original name for CAMRA when formed in 1971. It is no coincidence that when Watney's Red Barrel was changed to just 'Red' it was the final straw which sparked off the formation of CAMRA, (changing its name to this in 1972) and the rest as they say, is history. Whilst I am now a little more keen to visit Spain for a visit to the skittle museum, primarily, let's hope there will be no hint of that song by Sylvia, and none of, as Eric Idle so eloquently put it, that 'Bloody Watney's Red Barrel'!
AROUND THE
H O U S E S
IN MARTOCK ... there will be halloween celebrations at The Nags Head ... and for lovers of French cuisine, Beaujolais Nouveau Night is being celebrated on the 17th November at The White Hart ... in Bower Hinton it is Quiz Night on Friday 25th at The Rose and Crown ... and own reared turkeys at The Crown and Victoria, Tintinhull! Yomping on to Yeovil, landlord Pete at The Quicksilver Mail was recently seen enjoying himself at a Jethro concert and has, no doubt, picked up plenty of fresh material to regale his
Weekday Lunch & Early Birds Main Course just £8 ... at The Firehouse Somerset 12noon – 3pm and 5.45pm – 6.45pm Monday – Friday Shepherd’s Pie with hot buttered peas & carrots Minute Steak, chips & peppercorn sauce Please ring to book a table
Fishcakes & Salad Scampi & Chips Vegetarian Tart with new potatoes & salad
******************** Extensive range of Starters & Puddings all at £3.50
Happy Hour 4pm – 6pm Sunday – Saturday £1 OFF Pints £1 OFF Glass of Wine £1.30 OFF ... House Doubles
customers with ... book early for Christmas and receive a discount at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock ... Jill has been busy at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton creating a new winter menu ... Charles Seaton, local musician, w ill b e pla ying live a t T h e Brewers Arms, South Petherton on Saturday 12th of November ... and enjoy the menu du jour at The Lord Poulett Arms, Hinton St. George for just £15.95 for two courses. Wandering on to Wincanton, there will be live music with Tom Clements at The Dolphin Hotel, on Saturday 26th November ... cider drinkers should make their way to the award winning cider pub The Unicorn, Bayford where host Richard will be pleased to serve you with a well kept pint ... a Neil Diamond Tribute will ensure that the New Years Eve party goes with a swing at The Stags Head, Yarlington ... The George at Castle Cary has really pulled the stops out with their Gourmet New Years Menu ... and at The White Hart, excellent value lunches - 2 meals for £12 Monday to Friday. Bouncing on to Bruton where Truffles Brasserie is celebrating 30 years with a special anniversary dinner ...
The
don’t miss the excellent firework display at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague, all welcome ... Eye in the Sky is the movie showing at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham on Wednesday 2nd of November ... and there is an award winning chef at The Mildmay Arms, Queen Camel. Wandering on to Wells, the Best Western Plus Swan Hotel and Visit Somerset have joined forces for the third year running to promote Somerset to a host of major UK inbound tour operators ... Sunday Lunch is now available until 5pm at The Natterjack, Evercreech Junction, closed Sunday Evening. And finally ... please book your December advertising early! Deadline: Friday 11th November - published 24th November.
Wyndham Arms
KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK SOMERSET TA12 6AT
Open all day - every day
Delicious homecooked food served lunchtime and evening
NEW WINTER MENU
SUNDAYS – FOOD NOW AVAILABLE 12 noon until 9pm
Traditional Sunday Roast ... choice of 3 meats served 12 noon until 6pm
CHRISTMAS MENUS
Bookings from Monday 5th December ... to Friday 23rd December See Festive Venues & Menus Section Rob & Lin Rigby and Marly the Dog look forward to seeing you
Tel: 01935 823239
Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com to see full menu details
THE VISITOR November 2016 57
They Say
That last month’s Viz crossword caused grid-lock and quite a few cross words.
That the 29th October Montacute parkrun will be in reverse, due to the end of BST.
That Nicola 'gluten free' Sherrell of Castle Cary, didn't use her loaf while shopping at Tesco.
That Cucklington Village Hall had to be evacuated during a table tennis session when the fire alarm was activated by a ball struck by an enthusiastic ex-cricketer from Silton!
That Sarah Handy, who has been known to have the odd pint at The Camelot, South Cadbury, went to cut the lawn with an electric lawnmower, in the middle of a power cut! That Pete Lambden of The Quicksilver Mail has recently turned to a strong white spirit to brush his cares away.
That Graham Cox of Keinton Mandeville has been known to display Masonic tendencies whilst in Street.
That our Visitor hats go off to our wonderfully inventive readers who made their very own Crossword Grid last month and a big thank you goes to all who took the trouble to write and email. G o o d to k now y ou a re all paying attention!
That Josie Clements of Wincanton has her own parking space at Lidl in Majorca. That at a touch of a button Geoff Thompson of Barwick came over all Italian. That Mr Kipling could be making a visit to J2 Tiles of Yeovil next month.
That Miss S. Batty of Haselbury Plucknett and Mr P. Blundell of Bishops Caundle enjoy a novelty and a challenge respectively, when it comes to puzzles. That Paul 'I'm becoming a regular' Sherrell of Castle Cary, was surprised when the GWR wouldn't refund a 'road trip' to Manchester. That contributions to this column are most welcome: by email, phone or letter. However, anonymous contributions will not be published. 58 THE VISITOR November 2016
Pete Lambden & Staff welcome you to .....
168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL
“You say you got a real solution Well, you know We'd all love to see the plan You ask me for a contribution Well, you know We're all doing what we can”
FIRST PERSON to tell me the song gets a free drink. Last month nobody guessed that it was The Hollies and “I can’t tell the bottom from the top” . We have had another good month here at the top of the hill. A couple of nice parties to tell you about and some good things coming up over the next couple of months. We had a really nice wedding here when Dave and Sam became Mr. & Mrs. Helyar. The whole family came up the night before and decorated the room and it looked absolutely smashing. Well done you two. Congratulations! At the beginning of the month a young man by the name of Colin Saville celebrated his 60th birthday and retirement from Westlands. We had a great do for him and a fantastic time was had by all. Even I couldn’t help but join in with some of those old Wurzel songs! The RSPCA held a fund raiser here and the fabulous Barry Paull brought his Elvis Show along: a well-supported do which managed to raise over £1500. Great stuff! Now back to my old grumpiness. Can anyone truly tell me what difference all that money spent on the road system has made? You really couldn’t make it up. Someone who spent years at university and now gets paid a shed load of money has come up with that load of *&£LLo$s. It now takes longer to get across town than it ever did before! And we now have 6 more months of it over on the east side of town. Whoever it is obviously does not drive to work. O.K. rant over, grrr! Next month we have the fabulous AC/DC Tribute Show Hells Bells playing in the function room on the 18th, tickets are available from the pub. On the 25th Mutter Slater will be live in the bar – always a good line up and great show. Looking ahead to December, on the 23rd we have the last STORM gig in the function room. The lads have been bashing out the tunes for over 15 years and sadly all good things must come to an end: this is the last gig as STORM and I am sure it will be a good one. Get your tickets early, it is sure to sell out. On New Year’s Eve we have a fantastic party lined up for you with a great band, some hot buffet and an allround great night. Tickets are on sale now and are limited so get yourself sorted. Don’t forget my birthday with Mr. D’Arcy on the 2nd of December ... you never know I might even buy you a drink! And finally: an ice cream seller was today found on the floor of his van covered in hundreds and thousands. Police said he topped himself. TOOT TOOT!!!
BOOKINGS
01935 424721
MOTORING
NOVEMBER IS ALWAYS a bit of an in-between month for me. Coming to the end of autumn but hopefully not yet into the severe chill of winter, and not yet into the pre-Christmas season of dinners and parties. But November can still provide us with some decent days for motorcycling. Some riders mothball their bikes for the winter months which seems a shame when they could be ridden and enjoyed. Cleaning after each ride will always be a chore but most bikes will keep much better with an occasional gallop rather than stagnate in the shed. It seems that we no longer get the harsh winters we had when I was a kid, so why not rethink your winter strategy and make use of your machines throughout the coming months. The month of November brings around the annual Motorcycle Show held at the NEC in Birmingham. I have not attended for some years now but this year I may make an exception and go. I do not need anything specifically but it is interesting to look at all the shiny new offerings from the makers around the world. It is also interesting to see the latest clothing and equipment and the myriad of gadgets and accessories available to make our hobby easier and more enjoyable. Although I only ride old bikes it is still nice to go out riding and stay warm and dry. You may consider a trip there yourself. I am often fascinated and sometimes concerned about the ever rising prices of old bikes, and
I expect the same applies in the old car world. Concerned because there are very few young people coming forward to join our club and enjoy our pastime, and those that are interested are being priced out of the market. I am fascinated because not all classes of machines are rising at the same rate. The post war era leading up to the 1990s seem to be doing very well at the moment, whereas the 1920's and 30's bikes are still rising but not as fast. Then there are variations between types of bikes. The more common makes are doing well but anything different or of high quality seems to be doing exceptionally well, so where do you make your next investment. As with any commodity it is a question of supply and demand, and second guessing where the next big leap in prices will fall will keep clubroom banter going for hours. But have a study of the latest auction house results and you will see what I mean. Recently a rare American Crocker machine was sold in the states for around £294,000. It is not uncommon for bikes to make in excess of £100,000 and a plethora of machines come in the £50,000 to £100,000 bracket. Whilst interest rates are so low it is only logical for investment companies and pension funds to buy up the machines at the top end of the market, knowing that their investments will grow rapidly and it seems a very safe way to invest. They can also realise their assets in a short space of time. The problem now
GLIDEROL GARAGE DOORS
All garage doors are different, so as a roller door specialist, (I don’t replace windows, etc.) I can survey, quote and install to your requirements and make the most of your garage opening, as generally no frame is necessary. With the option of automated operation with remote control, a top quality garage door need only be a phone call away.
G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414
MOTORING
is that the enthusiast cannot compete with such companies and in many cases the machines are lost into bank vaults and the like and never seen again. This causes price rises throughout the market range. Riding events during November are few and far between but nonetheless there are some to tempt the hardy riders to take to the roads. The Somerset Section start the month with a guest speaker for their club night at Cossington on the 3rd. Then on the 6th will be the Guy Fawkes Run from the Cheddar Garden Centre. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section also have a guest speaker for their club night at East Stour on the 14th. The Dorset Section have their Lunch Meet on the 2nd at West Stour. Club night at Pulham on the 9th will have a guest speaker, followed on the 13th with a Winter Run from Orchard Park Garden Centre at Gillingham. Lastly on the 26th they return to West Stour for the Breakfast Meet. Everyone would b e w e l c ome at any of thes e activities. For more details ring 01935-872528. My picture this month was taken at the recent Last of the Summer Wine Run organised by the Dorset Section. It shows a very smart mid 1930's Rudge Rapid with its very proud owner, Nigel Beale from Basingstoke. Nigel has a special interest in Rudges and owns several, all of which are in beautifully restored condition, and he rides them with gusto. Rudge was always a small
company in terms of numbers produced, but they were very innovative. For example they used four valve cylinder heads as far back as the 1920s and some were radially arranged to improve gas flow and efficiency. Rudge were 40 years ahead of the field with this technology, and consequently all Rudges were good performers and quality built. The one pictured is a 250cc and it goes very well and so is very deserving of the model name Rapid. Rod Hann.
Jakes
Newly opened on the Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton is Jakes. With over 35 years experience in surface finishing - they specialise in shotblasting, powder coating and paint spraying. They are able to process anything from a simple nut and bolt through to a motor vehicle. They pride themselves on their high standard of work and offer competitive prices and a fast turn around. Call them to discuss your personal requirements.
GARDENING
GARDENING MONTHLY by Richard Cumming Orchard Park
Late autumn pleasure!
SO FAR SO GOOD. The autumn has been very pleasant with some good dry weather, cool-ish nights allowing the autumn colours to develop, it doesn’t happen every year so we really should get out and enjoy it when it does. The hawthorns are loaded with fruit. Milder damper autumns produce mucky colours which turn to muddy yellows before they fall, but this year has been good. Falling leaves are high on my list of things to deal with at the moment. Like so many gardeners, I try to make as much compost as I can. I have trees overhanging the lawn which gives me a great source of raw materials for my compost heap; a good mower will munch through a depth of leaves and adds grass cuttings as it goes. The resulting mix of crushed fibrous material and soft sappy
leaves quickly heats up in the heap and starts the rot. I also have a shredder so I can add as much chopped-up woody bits and leaves as I can find. You’ll have to forgive me but I do actually get excited about this! It really is a form of alchemy: that change in substance from my raw materials to a dark, crumbly compost that I can use anywhere in the garden with such great effect. If you want good plants
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THE VISITOR November 2016 59
GARDENING
then you must add goodness to the soil and the easiest way to do that is with compost. I am very happy to sell bags of compost and I do buy some myself as I physically cannot produce enough. Self-sufficient ‘Gardener’s World’ presenters have all sorts of help in their gardens – it’s just me in mine so I have to be realistic about what I can do. I have another urgent job and that’s repairing the lawn. There are a couple of very active resident moles that are creating
havoc, not helped, I might say, by our dog, Meg, who watches the mole hills – I am sure she can hear them digging, then starts to dig down to get them! By which time of course moley has retreated along his tunnel into a place of safety. I did catch one, but his territory has been taken over by another mole. They are beautiful creatures, fierce fighters and amazing burrowers. Remarkable. It must be a sign that my soil is in good shape with plenty of the worms that moles like, but it now looks like a
Meg on the hunt for moles.
training ground for an armed group of some sort so something has to be done. Moley needs to be moved and the pits dug by Meg filled in, reseeded or turfed. The ground needs to be raked and firmed first. It is getting late to sow grass seed unless a low temperature germinating mix is used. Even so, early frosts could damage new growth. Turf is a safer option and can be laid anytime the ground is not frozen or waterlogged.
Plants of the Month
Halloween display at Orchard Park Garden Centre, Gillingham.
for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher farm, Sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221 Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.
This is a great month for planting as the warm moist soil is just right for helping new plants settle and establish before the winter. Trees, shrubs, perennials or bulbs: all can go in now. National Tree Week is held at the end of November and highlights the opportunities to care for existing trees and plant new ones. We have seen many tree diseases in recent years that have threatened or destroyed some of our native trees. Ash Dieback is the most recent worry and while there may
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60 THE VISITOR November 2016
Utilise the generous grants now available to restock neglected woodland or areas of wasteground
not be any cases reported yet in our immediate area, that doesn’t mean to say that it isn’t close. The Forestry Commission’s website www.forestry.gov. uk/chalara is worth checking for information especially on the signs of infection and what to look for. Talking about great autumn and winter colour, there is one group of plants that includes a number of shrubs and small trees that are generally trouble free. Cornus or Dogwoods have lots to offer from colourful foliage, bright stems to graceful shapes. These reliable and hardy plants can add year-round appeal to any garden, with a luscious leafy backdrop to summer flowers then
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changing into a rainbow of colours through autumn before fluttering away to reveal brilliant wand-like stems. This seasonal transformation is just the start of a host of new planting partnerships that can be enjoyed r i g h t t h roug h unti l spring. During winter the brightly coloured stems of dogwoods catch su n l i g h t t o crea t e d a z zling displays. Small gardens might only have space for a single plant, so position it where the low piercing winter sunlight will shine through, catching stems in its spotlight. It’s no wonder varieties have been given names like ‘Winter Beauty' and ‘Midwinter Fire' as the intense rays of the sun really bring those fiery-coloured stems to life. Take a look at the whole range of shrubby dogwoods to discover varieties with different foliage and stem colour combinations from ‘Flaviramea' with green leaves and goldenyellow stems, ‘Spaethii' with variegated, yellow-edged green leaves and red stems, or the white margined leaves and red stems of ‘Elegantissima'. In addition, many shrubby dogwoods also carry clusters of
GARDENING
This useful timber framed building is just one of many designed and installed by Sparkford Timber Buildings and Gates of Sparkford (see advert inside cover).
tiny flowers through summer. These are usually a creamy-white colour, and these often lead on to form dense heads of white berries in autumn. Shrubby dogwoods grow well in almost any soil, even moist sites and heavy clay ground. They'll grow best in a sunny position, but will tolerate some shade. Contrasting colours always work well when
developing planting combinations, so consider planting groups of two or more dogwoods together. Also try planting dogwoods in large patio containers to create seasonal displays with a difference, under-planting them with low winter bedding, leafy perennials and small shrubs.
There are dozens of plants to choose from as partners for dogwoods. Some can be planted behind them as a background to enhance the visibility of their stems, while others provide flowering companions through winter. Several low growing plants, like Bergenia and Heuchera, can be planted around clumps to carpet the ground, or underplant with early flowering bulbs like snowdrops, crocus and narcissus. Cornus is a wide and varied family of shrubs and small trees, so if dogwoods take your fancy check out the rest of the family to discover other great garden performers like the Wedding Cake Tree (Cornus controversa ‘Variegata') and flowering trees like Cornus kousa and ‘Venus'. Also look out for the Cornus mas, the Cornelian Cherry, which forms tiny clusters of yellow flowers on bare winter stems that turn into glossy-red cherry-like fruits later in summer.
Jobs for the Month
Shorter days and variable weather make it harder to get
Full ground preparation and laying service available
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THE VISITOR November 2016 61
GARDENING
through the job list, so some prioritising might be necessary. Essential tasks are as follows: Leaf pickin’ - clearing fallen leaves especially from lawns, ponds and flower beds. You can leave them where they fall as a mulch around tougher plants but don’t let them suffocate smaller plantings. Burn infected or unusable plant material with a seasonal bonfire, or take excess to the green waste section of your recycling centre. Containers left out all winter need to be raised on flat stones or pot feet to let them drain and prevent waterlogging. Evergreens in pots outdoors may be best moved to sheltered spots and Pictured left: An attractive thatched gazebo by Master Thatcher John Harman makes an interesting addition to any garden.
Timber Framing
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62 THE VISITOR November 2016
insulated from frost with bubblewrap. Fleece wrapped around delicate stems or special fleece jackets can be useful. Any tender plants that haven’t been finished off by the early frosts should be removed either to a frost free place or composted. There is still time to plant bulbs, in fact November is the best month for tulips to go into the ground. Plan this with winter bedding such as wallflowers, winter pansies, and forget-menots for a stunning spring display next year. Most garden centres offer a wide range of winter-hardy decoratives for pots and borders. It is a little early to do the main prune but some plants especially roses can be pruned back enough to prevent wind-rock which can damage the roots and kill the plant. At the same time check ties and stakes for newly planted trees. In the veg garden, tidy up as much as possible, and protect crops from hungry pests. In our part of the world we need to cover brassicas with netting to keep the pigeons off, and fence sections to keep the rabbits out. Grease bands fixed about 1m from the ground around fruit tree trunks will trap the wingless female winter moths as they climb the trunks preventing infestations of winter moth caterpillars in the spring. I am very keen on attracting as much wildlife into the garden as I can [with the exception of badgers, moles, pigeons and rabbits, oh yes and squirrels!] so I do make sure the bird feeders are full and there is always clean water for them. Wild birds are great little helpers, keeping some of the nasties under control as well as bringing pleasure.
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the end bit...
PAPERCHASE
IN THE EARLY HOURS of Monday 26th September a car left the road, hit a tree, rolled on to its side and burst into flames. The driver died at the scene of the incident, about a mile outside Bruton on the road to Warminster. This road, a much used route into Bruton, was closed until well into the afternoon, and the following day the police erected notices at the scene appealing for witnesses and information. Floral tributes appeared round the tree, so the driver had certainly been identified by then. This much I know from listening to local residents, not from reading about it in the local edition of the Western Gazette. The 29th September issue of the Wincanton, Castle Cary, Bruton and Gillingham edition carried no mention of the incident, and neither did the following week’s issue. On Saturday 24th September the 77-year-old actor, writer and horse-breeder Terence Brady died. He and his wife Charlotte Bingham had lived at their home a couple of miles south of Bruton for around 40 years, and together had achieved fame as the writers of the early series of ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’ and numerous other TV sitcoms. As well as acting, Brady wrote several novels and two history books, one of them the history of point-to-point racing – a subject that interested him greatly as he also bred racehorses and eventers and had trained a winning steeple-chaser. This much I know from reading an obituary in the Daily Telegraph, not from reading about it in the local edition of the Western Gazette. The 29th September issue of the Wincanton, Castle Cary, Bruton and Gillingham edition carried no mention of his life and death, and neither did the following week’s issue – apart from a paid-for bereavement notice on the ‘Family Announcements’ page. So what Bruton news did these two issues of the Gazette contain? Next to nothing! Tucked away at the bottom of page 3 of the 29th September issue was a brief mention of the latest cheese
Geoff Thompson
“ I GOT A FACE LIT ”
awards won by Wyke Farms, and on page 5 a short report of an arts workshop and exhibition at Bruton School for Girls. And in the 6th October issue, none that I could find. Apart, that is, from a story on page 5 headlined ‘Perfect location for new antiques fair’ about the misnamed first Bruton Decorative Antiques Fair to be held later in October at Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford. Clearly lifted from a press release from the organisers, the report mentions the ‘perfect location in nearby Bruton’, describing it as ‘just outside Bruton’ and saying that the event ‘is going to add a new dimension to the cultural appeal of Bruton’. Balderdash. Sparkford is around ten miles from Bruton, and the reporter must surely have recognised – and should have exp os ed – the fact th a t th e organisers are merely trying to cash in on Bruton’s name as an ‘arty’ town. That could have made an interesting Bruton story.
In last month’s column I noted that the 8th September issue of the Bruton edition contained no news from the town whatsoever and wondered why Bruton readers continue to buy the paper. Clearly things haven’t improved. Gone, it seems, are the days when enquiring journalists ferreted out local news to fill the pages of local papers. Nowadays they just regurgitate uncritically whatever information they are sent. This saddens me, and it brings to mind what J B Priestley wrote in his ‘English Journey’ in 1933: ‘It is important that people should realise what is happening in their own district. Gossip and chatter from Fleet Street is a poor substitute for such information about and criticism of local affairs.’ That remains true today. Another thing that saddens me is declining production standards. As I have reported in this column on countless occasions, proofreaders seem to be an extinct species, and sub-editors don’t
Sudoku
by
T.M.
Fill in the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers 1 to 9.
check pages before sending them to print. So I was mortified to find in last month’s issue of this magazine that the prize crossword grid did not match the answers to the clues. I know that the many readers who enter the competition would have been disappointed after solving 1 Across and finding that their ten-letter answer wouldn’t fit into the seven spaces on the grid. Red faces all round in the Visitor office, along with abject apologies and a resolve to check everything more carefully in future. Chronicler.
ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
on page 22
James Brown Robbie Williams 'Blackhearts' 'Abbey Road' 'Red Hot Chilli Peppers' 'Lobo' 'I Try' Robert John 'Moody Blues' 'Bad Manners'
This Month’s Bonus Question 1999 Question Impossible
Henry Gross. He was 18 at the time. He also had a minor U.K. hit in 1976 with a very West Coast sounding 'Shannon', devoted to the Irish Setter of the same name, which belonged to Beach Boy Carl Wilson.
Solution to October
Sudoku
THE VISITOR November 2016 63
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Caricatures for Special Gifts
Domestic Appliances
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Yeovil and surrounding area
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Mister Oven
Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc
Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk
The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE:
www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
64 THE VISITOR November 2016
HERE
Electrical Contractors
Oven Cleaning
The Visitor can be read online www.thevisitor magazine.co.uk
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December Deadline Friday 11th November 01963 351256
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Roofing
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For all your roofing requirements
Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing
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Services
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Framing
SCENES
Artist Materials & Gallery
Picture Framing Restoration Large Selection of Prints and Paintings Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel: 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk
Say you saw it in The Visitor
Denture Repairs
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Home visits a speciality
THE VISITOR November 2016 65
Classified Ads
Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. For a Box Number please add £2. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.
✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.
Prize Crossword No. 361 Set by Frank Butler
SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG – to arrive by Friday 11th November.
Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of The Visitor. Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address. 1
2
3
7
4
8
10
5
6
9
11
12
13
15
14
17
16
18
19 20
21
22
NAME ..................................................................................................................................................................... ADDRESS .............................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................. Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5
Personal
www.country-link.org.uk CoUNtRY lINk SoCIAl GRoUP. fresh air, fun, food and friendship. tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918. JUSt SoMeRSet INtRoDUCtIoNS. Bringing people together. Call Alison tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk
Catering / Mobile Bars
HARRY’S MoBIle BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk
Services
HoUSeHolD & GARDeN RUBBISH CleAReD, old sheds / oubuildings demolished, etc. tel: 01460 77844. tYPING WoRk UNDeRtAkeN. Contact: 07780 464577.
Passport Photographs
PASSPoRtS - passports - passports also studio sittings, and golden weddings. Any time to suit you. easy parking opposite the Quarry Inn. tel: Graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.
Wanted
DAVe BUYS All tYPeS of toolS, salvage, bygones and collectables. Daves tools - tel: 01935 428975
PoStCARDS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. tel: Clive 01749 675456. All SPoRtS PRoGRAMMeS and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. large collections welcome. Cash paid. tel: Clive 01749 675456. R e D U N D A N t M o t o R M o W e R S , rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. tel: 01460 77844.
CoINS & CoIN ColleCtIoNS, prints, maps, books, and manuscripts.tel: 01225 793575, Mobile: 07754 058850. PoP SINGleS from 1950s, 1960s etc., also lP records, classical, pop, rock. tel: 07731 534424. GUNS WANteD for cash. Any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. tel: 07970 742471.
Storage
StoRAGe for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.
Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Feakins who will be celebrating their 40th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY on 6th November
66 THE VISITOR November 2016
23
24
25
26
Across: 7.
9.
10. 11. 12. 14. 15. 17.
20.
22. 23.
24. 25. 26.
Enigmatic sinecure not fixed. [8] Possessed after first of December and swallowed. [6] Reserve volume. [4] Owen learns to find US city. [3,7] Sing all operas at speed! [6] Resisted beauty in scarlet. [8] Ado about cap sends you back to the top. [2,4] Lad returned to French fire in mediaeval manner. [6] Taking leading role, Sting accepted a limousine. [8] Regretting rug put around a German. [6] Muddled bastard, etc., and taken out. [10] Boy’s name (nowadays in the morning). [4] Nothing in woodland makes a rut. [6] In private, sly about break-up of Crete. [8]
Down: 1. 2. 3.
4.
5.
6. 8.
Drawn out parts are unfavourable. [8] Quarter-bushel to strike with beak. [4] Vegetable: One penny after corner. [6] Notice alternative can darling! [8] Wet deed Lee arranged for a fiddler. [10] Psychical session since I left for around East Anglia. [6] Journalist at sick bay found English king. [6]
13. Share of fine material being shredded. [10] 16. Top mammals? Looks nosily around rug. [8] 18. Unidimensionally, girl swallows close-by! [8] 19. A stage fix making semiprecious stones. [6] 21. Tantalum / barium research development gives sleeveless tunic. [6] 22. Cut down damaged red cue. [6] 24. Drinks found in local estate. [4]
Solution to Crossword 360
APOLOGY
We sincerely apologise for the wrong grid being published last month, although it would appear that many of you enjoyed the ‘extra’ challenge it created. However, because of this error we have chosen two prize winners this month: Terry Francis of Yeovil who chose The Old Pound Inn, Aller and Mrs H. Pape of Crewkerne who chose The Antiques Bazaar in Crewkerne.
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