The Visitor Magazine Issue 411 February 2018

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

Everything for your hearth and home

Your local independent monthly journal  01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Issue 411 February 2018

FREE copy

Wildlife Wanders: Join Somerset Wildlife Trust for a stroll around the River Tone, looking out for the wildlife that lives there.

See page 32 for details.

Photo: Terry Whittaker/2020VISION.

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In Passing ...

T

here’s no denying that we are getting a few more minutes of daylight as each day passes, but the lights still have to go on at teatime. We are entrenched in that drab postChristmas period before the clocks go forward in late March, when there is little to look forward to. Even Easter seems a long way off, and it’s hard to ward off thoughts of all the garden tasks that should have been done last autumn and will now have to be tackled in the spring. Or of the countless jobs around the house that are waiting to be done when the weather warms up.

Sometimes when I was younger, Valentine’s Day would kindle within me a spark of enthusiasm and Mothering Sunday would generate an excuse for a low-key family celebration, but those days are long past.

Nowadays the first three months of the year promise little apart from short, cold days and long, dark, even-colder evenings. But those evenings have their compensations.

They provide time for snuggling down in front of the fire and getting engrossed in the books that I was given at Christmas; for listening to the CDs I have accumulated during the past year; for catching up with the DVDs I have long been intending to watch; for discussing and planning a summer holiday; for getting together with friends for a few hands of bridge; for wrapping up well and strolling down the lane to the warmth of the local pub to catch up with the village news and gossip. They inject a great deal of pleasure to relieve the drabness.

Outside the home, Visitorland offers countless opportunities to lighten the gloom.

Many pubs, restaurants and hotels provide tempting excuses for eating out – another of life’s pleasures with no menu planning, no shopping, no cooking, no washing up, indeed nothing to worry about except the cost. And every town seems to have a venue with an extensive programme of diversions to

entertain or educate – the Arts Centres in Ilminster and Shaftesbury, David Hall in South Petherton, the Octagon and Swan Theatres and the Westlands Entertainment Venue in Yeovil and The Exchange in Sturminster Newton, to name but a few.

A glance at their schedules for February and March reveals a wide-ranging choice, with something to appeal to most interests and tastes. And many Visitorland village halls are staging occasional concerts, plays, talks, exhibitions and events to enliven the winter evenings.

An alternative is to batten down the hatches, switch on the television and hope it will alleviate the winter drabness until Easter arrives. At least it doesn’t cost anything if you stick to the freeview channels, but it’s not guaranteed to give much pleasure.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines

March Issue published Thursday 22nd February Deadline Friday 9th February

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BP

Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag

Proprietor Helen Dunion

Accounts, Advertising, Editorial and Subscriptions Rachel Hancox

Advertising / Editorial Assistant Emma Pengelly © The Visitor Ltd. 2018

(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)

CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 50 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 31 BUSINESS - 46

CROSSWORD - 50 GARDENING - 36

GOLDEN YEARS - Care of the Elderly - 9 HOUSE & HOME- 14 LEISURE - 32 LETTERS - 4

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 23 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 4 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.

MOTORING - 44

MUSIC for the MONTH - 35 NOTICE BOARD - 32 PAPERCHASE - 47

PHONE-A-FIRM - 48 PUBS - 40

SPRING WEDDINGS - 26 THEY SAY - 42

VALENTINES GIFTS - 24 WINE & DINE - 30

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR February 2018 3

Letters to the Editor Cary Carnival Club need your help!

Sir, Firstly, Happy New Year to The Visitor, and thank you for the joy you give us each year in reading your local independent journal, which is a jewel in the crown to this region.

Cary Comedians survived a most difficult year in 2017, overcoming many instances of bad luck in many areas which lead to a financial crisis. Several good people and life members came to the rescue and the club performed well in Cary and the County Circuit.

In 2018 there is no Glastonbury Festival to steward. We have to fundraise, seek donors and sponsorship for at least £10,000 to cover basic costs, ie: fuel, insurances, construction materials, electrical equipment, servicing of the generator and tractors, make costumes, buy make-up etc.

Our illuminated carnivals are

4 THE VISITOR February 2018

unique. All clubs with floats need to survive to provide quality processions that attract large crowds to create good collections for local charities. Too many clubs have folded during the last 20 years, so may I plead for donors or sponsors for 2018. Every pound counts this coming year.

In 2019, Glastonbury Festival returns for at least 10 years so the club can once again then steward and raise the much needed money required to run well into its 42nd year and onwards to a fifth decade. Please, please help us.

Gordon Stockman MBE (Life Member CCACS)

Nippy Bus Not Welcome

Sir, Having heard of your correspondent Clive White’s words - I have since found out that there was a bit more to the matter of diminishing ‘Nippy Bus’ services in and around Yeovil, South Somerset and North Dorset

areas. Its owner, has demonstrated the possible abdication of responsibility to the area he has called home!

By dumping both in communities and on his own employees, he has demonstrated an appalling lack of thought, tact and civilized behaviour that I have found to be disgusting.

If the ex-owner of Nippy Bus thinks he’s going to be starting up again, perhaps in Bristol, or even Bath, he will face me, the suspicious citizen of the former because I wouldn’t inflict him, in any part of Bristol whatsoever!

I, for one, would be extremely suspicious. Indeed, my community in the region would be equally as suspicious as I would be! His previous behaviour would count against him!

DEFINITELY! My city would not want him running a bus company inside its parameters or city limits.

There are certain parameters within the Magna Carta - that all people and communities must be treated equally and justly. The former Nippy Bus boss has broken all of them and has acted illegaly in my view! He should be taken to court, and barred from running any form of bus or public transport company in this region, ever again!

Even Bristol First Bus boss, James Freeman, would not have done this! And as scandalous as First Bus has been - this is distinctly worse! Especially, for the direct communities concerned.

Stephen Farthing Hengrove Bristol.

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Echoes of War: Exhibition Open at Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury

A new exhibition at Somerset Rural Life Museum explores the many ways in which rural Somerset was affected by the events of the First World War. Echoes of War: The Somerset Countryside 1914–1918 is open until 2 June.

Using objects, archive documents and photographs, the exhibition reveals how the First World War profoundly changed the county’s rural communities.

Visitors can discover more about life on the home front and the ways in which Somerset people supported the war effort.

Somerset’s landscape was used as a place of respite and recuperation for wounded soldiers. Red Cross hospitals were set up across the county and many country houses and schools were converted for military use.

A remarkable collection of watercolours illustrating daily life at Hinton House Red Cross Hospital near Crewkerne will be digitally displayed for the first time. The drawings, by Nurse Dorothy Maud Hole, will be accompanied by her diary detailing hospital admissions and autograph books signed by the soldiers.

Curator of Military History at the South West Heritage Trust, Sam Astill, added: “The Somerset countryside played an important role in the rehabilitation of thousands of the wounded soldiers from the allied nations who came to Somerset to recover and the sight of soldiers in

Mentioned in

Dispatches ‘convalescent blues’ became a familiar sight in villages.

“Local people organised special events such as garden parties, concerts and whist drives to support them. Items to comfort soldiers and sailors were made by people of all ages and backgrounds. Socks, balaclavas, blankets, shirts, towels and even plum puddings were sent from Somerset to local men serving abroad.”

Echoes of War is part of a series of events and exhibitions from the South West Heritage Trust that reveal more about the First World War and its legacy. The Trust is part of the First World War Centenary Partnership led by the Imperial War Museum.

The Partnership is a network of organisations from across the world that have joined together to remember the war and help people to discover its significance.

customers.

They are a friendly, familybased company employing twelve fully trained engineers.

Their system will dry out cold wet walls, reducing humidity and condensation which will subsequently reduce your heating bills too. The process will be effective on terraced, detached or any other sort of building, whether the walls are solid, cavity brick or stone.

Please check out www.southwest-damp.co.uk or call 01689 800101.

Snowdrop Celebration Weekend at The Bishop’s Palace, 24th-25th February, 10am-4pm

This February, for the first time, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be holding a “Snowdrop Celebration”. Head along to the Palace on 24th and 25th February 2018 for a special weekend to celebrate an array of stunning snowdrops on display throughout the Gardens

Frank Schrijver Damp Control

Frank Schrijver Damp Control is a unique and permanent solution for all types of damp issues.

Richard Smith from Bridgwater has organised hundreds of installations in the Somerset area and has numerous satisfied

Nurse Dorothy Maud Hole’s watercolours and diaries document daily life in a Red Cross Hospital.

Snowdrops at The Bishop's Palace, Wells.

THE VISITOR February 2018 5

6 THE VISITOR February 2018

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Cinderella breaks box office records for the sixth consecutive year

The Octagon Theatre’s 2017/18 pantomime, ‘Cinderella’, has officially become the best-selling pantomime that the Yeovil venue has ever presented.

Following five previous years of record-breaking productions, ‘Cinderella’ has now become the sixth Octagon Theatre pantomime to break Box Office records reaching a total sold capacity of 90% this year for the first time in the theatre’s history.

‘Cinderella’ sold over 29,500 tickets marking record attendance for the professional Yeovil pantomime. The production was hailed as, “genuinely awesome” (Somerset Live), “a shining star” (The Fine Times Recorder) and received numerous positive reviews from audiences that travelled from South Somerset and further afield to see the show.

The annual Christmas pantomime at The Octagon Theatre is produced by Evolution Pantomimes; a family run company headed by husband and wife team Paul Hendy and Emily Wood. They’ve been producing pantomimes since 2005 and have had three of their productions included in the Daily Mail’s ‘Top Ten Pantomimes in the Country’ list. Last year they also won ‘Pantomime of the Year’ at the Great British Pantomime Awards. Evolution currently produce eight pantomimes in venues across the country, including The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil.

Sylvia Seal, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at South Somerset District Council, said, “Once again, another truly outstanding performance at our Octagon Theatre, which has attracted another record-breaking crowd number. With numbers increasing year-on-year for the past six years, it really goes to show how highly regarded our pantomimes are and the quality of the performance. A big congratulations to all involved, including staff at The Octagon Theatre, those from Evolution Pantomimes and, of course, the volunteers who help to make each

performance go without a problem.”

Paul Hendy, Evolution Pantomimes Producer, added, “We are thrilled to produce pantomimes at the fantastic Octagon Theatre. The pantomimes here are gaining a reputation for being the biggest and best in Somerset. We’re already planning lots of exciting things for this year’s production of ‘Aladdin’.”

The Octagon Theatre’s most recent pantomime production also raised over £6,000 for charity through its bucket collection. This

money will be divided between this year’s two local charities: Yeovil District Hospital and The Foyer Club.

Tickets for The Octagon Theatre’s 2018/19 pantomime, ‘Aladdin’, are already on sale and selling fast. You can book online via octagon-theatre.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01935 422884.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

The cast of Cinderella 2017/18.

THE VISITOR February 2018 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Langport & District History Society, Looking at limekilns

The Society’s first meeting of 2018 was held on 8 January at Langport Library, when the everpopular industrial archaeologist Peter Stanier spoke on the topic, ‘Looking at limekilns’, based on his lifelong interest in this subject. He began by quoting a fellow aficionado, Neil Cossons, that limekilns “are amongst the most familiar and least studied of industrial archaeological sites.”

Peter briefly described the basic design of a limekiln, and the various processes involved in the making of products used mainly for building purposes or for spreading on fields to neutralise acidic soil. As he demonstrated by a wide selection of photographs, maps and drawings, there is no standard shape or size of limekilns, and they could be constructed in many different locations from rivers, canals and coast, to inland areas exploiting the best available limestone.

He explained his own researches over the years, such as his survey of Dorset in the early 1990s, plotting the location of limekilns from old Ordnance Survey maps and other sources.

One problem was that there was little in the archives on limekilns as they tended to be a small-scale domestic operation, so there remain few historic records, such as sales or accounts books.

Many of the recorded sites had

long fallen into disuse and disrepair, often disappearing completely. Even those which had been restored tended over time to deteriorate because of insufficient aftercare and maintenance. Some had been converted to uses such as dwellings, storage areas, garages etc. Few were preserved or protected because they may have been regarded as relatively unimportant items of industrial history and architecture, though he did show some examples from Britain and elsewhere of rather grand and impressive limekilns.

He concluded with a brief survey of limekilns in Somerset generally, especially the North Somerset coast, and those in the Langport area. The latter brought out much reaction and even some further information from members of the audience with first-hand knowledge of the local sites.

The next meeting will be at Langport Library on Monday 5 February, when Tom Harris looks at the history of bells and English church bellringing. It is free to members (annual membership is £12) and non-members are welcome, admission £2.

Anyone interested in joining the History Society should contact Sue Standen (01458 273471, suzannestanden471@btinternet. com). Follow the History Society at @langporthistory, and on its website: https://sites.google. com/site/langportheritage/home

Share a little love this February

Valentine's Day can be a waste nightmare unless you choose gifts that will last and recycle everything by adding empty bottles to your kerbside box, fading flowers to the compost bin, and every last chocolate to your waistline. But there is plenty of love out there that can help you waste far less, recycle much more and save money; from the delights or disasters of your dinner table to the crowded rails in the deepest recesses of your wardrobe, according to Somerset Waste Partnership.

Given that the average family with children wastes around £60 a month of food that could have been eaten, Love Food Hate Waste at lovefoodhatewaste.com is a great free online resource with a feast of ideas about planning meals, shopping carefully, labelling dates, and recognising portion sizes.

Love Your Clothes at loveyourclothes.org.uk aims to cut the estimated 300,000 tonnes of clothes that end up in landfill

each year with advice on buying better, care and repair, and how to donate, sell or recycle every scrap of fabric you no longer need.

Meanwhile, Somerset hosts dozens of places, from charity stores to vintage outlets to Taunton Recycling Centre’s Reuse Shop, where pre-loved clothes and other items, many hardly if ever used, can be found at great prices.

A SWP spokesperson said: “Between them, these lovely sites and shops could save you plenty, free up space, give you a new style, create great family meals, offer you bargains, and help you cut back on costly waste.”

And SWP is hoping that this month, when the weather and road conditions remain poor, you could spare a little love for your waste crews by being patient if you get held up in traffic behind a truck that is not pulling over to let motorists go by.

The SWP spokesperson said: “After near-misses from aggressive drivers squeezing past, crews are told to prioritise safety for all road users as they move heavy loads from both sides of the street, while taking no longer than necessary.”

For all information on waste, including the dozens of materials recycled in kerbside collections and dozens taken at recycling sites, visit www.somerset waste.gov.uk

The Arts Society Mendip

6th February 2018 - From Bristol to the sea: Artists, the Avon Gorge and Bristol Harbour will be the subject of a talk to the Arts Society Mendip by Francis Greenacre, Curator of Fine Art

SALE

CLOSING DOWN IS NOW ON

(DORCHESTER BRANCH UNAFFECTED)

Telephone: 01935 478357 31 Princes Street, Yeovil, Somerset

8 THE VISITOR February 2018

at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, 1969 to 1997. The Society meets at the Bath and West Bar & Restaurant, B&W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN at 11.00 am. Details; www.theartssocietymendip. org.uk. Guests Welcome. Contact 01934 862435.

Amour and less: plenty of help is available to help you cut back on cost and waste.

GOLDEN YEARS – Care of the Elderly

Bluebird Care

Marianne Mihkelstein, Bluebird Care South Somerset’s Wincanton Area Community Team Supervisor, has just been awarded her Level 5 Award for Health and Social Care. This is a terrific achievement, equivalent to the second year of a bachelor's degree.

Director of Bluebird Care South Somerset, West Dorset & Purbeck, Ross Perkins, said, ‘I am so proud of Marianne. It is a pretty rare thing for anyone to achieve this level of qualification

and she deserves some public recognition.’

Bluebird Care South Somerset is a leading homecare and live in care agency and the only Community Care company in South Somerset that has been assessed as ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission.

They believe that care matters and are committed to providing the highest quality homecare in South Somerset so that customers can remain in their own homes.

Bluebird Care delivers homecare and support services right across

the South Somerset area.

For further information regarding the Level 5 Award for Health and Social Care, visit: http://www.athe.co.uk/athelevel-5-extended-diploma-in-man

agement-for-health-and-socialcare/ Bluebird Care South Somerset’s CQC profile can be viewed at www.cqc.org. uk/location/1-2211099227

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THE VISITOR February 2018 9

GOLDEN YEARS – Care of the Elderly

EDF Directors Donate to Surviving Winter Appeal

Surviving Winter, the appeal run

by Somerset Community Foundation that encourages pensioners who feel they don’t want or need their Winter Fuel Payment to donate it, has just received a welcome boost in the shape of £5000 from EDF Energy – but there is still a little way to go before the appeal reaches its target of £100,000 to help 500 older people this winter.

EDF Energy, which operates Hinkley Point B and is building Hinkley Point C, regularly supports local groups and communities through grants and funding. This includes the Hinkley Point C Community Small Grants Fund which is also administered by Somerset Community Foundation.

David Eccles, Head of Stakeholder Engagement for Hinkley Point C, said: “We are delighted to be able to donate to the Surviving Winter appeal as it benefits local pensioners and provides much needed support for them in the colder months.”

Surviving Winter grants can be put towards things like heating bills, fuel and warm clothing and blankets, and the campaign’s community partners also help make sure vulnerable local older people stay connected within their community.

One in six older people in Somerset say that they feel isolated, and recent national research shows being lonely and isolated is linked to increasing the risk of early death by a third.

Age UK estimates that some 873,000 people aged 65 and over don’t see or hear from anyone for days on end, with over half relying on the television for companionship.

To donate some or all of your Winter Fuel Payment, or to make a donation of any size to the Surviving Winter appeal, please send a cheque made payable to Somerset Community Foundation (writing SW on the reverse), Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN; or call 01749 344949; or donate online at: www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter

Hart Mobility Yeovil Disability & Mobility Products

We offer the best service and the lowest prices in the

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Call SANDRA BARCLAY, Manager on 01935 472793 for an informal chat

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Scooter Servicing from £35 • FREE parking • FREE battery testing

10 THE VISITOR February 2018

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Somerset Care is an awardwinning, not-for-profit company with over 25 years’ experience of supporting people to live independently.

Within their residential and nursing homes, they provide a welcoming ‘home from home’ environment, whether you’re looking for day care, respite care or a longer term move to a home.

The Willows service is a flexible, new approach to care and support, with customer-led packages built around you and what will best meet your needs.

Time is allocated according to your needs and adjusted as necessary. Rather than charging by the hour, a range of unique packages is tailored around your goals and wishes.

Under the name ‘Realise’, Somerset Care also support adults with learning disabilities and complex needs, offering support with hobbies, employment and education as well as personal care. Somerset Care’s Realise service supports people living in their own homes and in shared housing or a supporting living scheme.

If you would like more information, please visit their website www.somersetcare.co.uk or telephone 0800 988 4337.

60 West Coker Road, Yeovil BA20 2JA

★ Reclining Chairs from £595 ● ● ● ● ● ●

Set in large gardens, Beechwood House Care Home in Yeovil, provides a very high standard of residential care for 28 elderly people, all having ground level, en-suite rooms. Established for almost 20 years, their aim is to provide a caring and comfortable home for people who feel unable or do not wish to live on their own any longer.

Two sitting rooms and conservatories allow residents to enjoy either personal time, to meet visitors or to participate in the activities on offer. The cooks prepare excellent home-cooked meals and special dietary requirements are catered for.

Should you require them to order, collect and administer medication, they will gladly do so.

They want residents to maintain their way of life, whilst knowing that help is available whenever they need it. Above all, treat Beechwood House as your home. Please call Sandra Barclay, Manager, on 01935 472793 for more details.

Somerset Care

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email: info@beechwoodcarehome.co.uk • www.beechwoodcarehome.co.uk

THE VISITOR February 2018 11

GOLDEN YEARS – Care of the Elderly

Andrew Knight D.O Osteopath & Kinesiologist

Andrew Knight D.O Osteopath & Kinesiologist has been serving Castle Cary, Bruton, Somerton and surrounding areas for more than 30 years and is now practicing solely from Keinton Mandeville www.andrewknight.co.uk and offers support, advice, treatment and

consultancy for musculoskeletal disorders and Applied Kinesiology assessments for diet and nutrition. Special interests in dance safety and Archery stance with talks, presentations and workshops being offered in these areas as well as in specific areas of musculoskeletal health and well-being. Andrew is available 9-6 Monday to Friday at the office

in Keinton Mandeville for appointments and by arrangement for talks and workshops on 01458 223300.

Mendip Mobility - now in Street and Trowbridge!

Mendip Mobility Ltd are pleased to announce that they have moved from Frome to open a new retail outlet in Trowbridge, accompanying their second outlet located in Street. Established in 2007, Mendip Mobility Ltd aim to provide excellent service and quality value for money products to their customer base which now reaches further into Wiltshire.

The two local retail outlets containing their extensive range of quality branded mobility products enable customers to see the equipment first hand and receive professional help from knowledgeable staff.

Mendip Mobility Ltd are keen to spend time with everyone who comes through their doors. They will discuss your options and needs and provide demonstrations both in store and

RELAX in COMFORT ...

Mendip with

Mobility

at home to make sure the products you purchase suit your individual requirements. Their new retail outlet in Trowbridge can be contacted on 01225 764 800, please see their advert for the full address and further details.

Making everyday life easier

Do I need a Stairlift? If you have difficulty getting up and down stairs you are not alone. The decision to install a stairlift is sometimes a difficult one to take but, when compared with the alternative of moving or living on only one level of their home, many people have found a stairlift to be their preferred solution.

Why choose Suttons Stairlifts?

They aim to provide an ethical, reliable and prompt service to their valued customers. Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring them to their friends and relations they have achieved a solid reputation for integrity and exceptional service. Suttons

“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  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!

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146 High Street, STREET, BA16 0ER  01458 448355 2B Paxcroft Way, TROWBRIDGE, BA14 7DG  01225 764800 www.mendipmobility.co.uk

GOLDEN YEARS – Care of the Elderly

Stairlifts is now a wellestablished family-run company committed to providing expert advice with a no-pressure selling policy, guaranteed!

Peace of mind: In addition to being approved dealers for Handicare, Suttons Stairlifts are also approved members of the Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme. You are also choosing an ISO Quality Approved product that conforms to the ethical business practices required by the British Healthcare Trades Association.

Products and Services: Suttons offer a range of new or refurbished Handicare stairlifts for either straight or curved stairs in the South West. A rental option is available for straight stairlifts.

They provide fast and efficient maintenance and repairs on all supplied stairlifts, as well as an annual service and safety check to keep your stairlift running as smoothly as the day it was installed. They also offer servicing and safety checks for stairlifts not installed by them, as well as repairs and removals at a very reasonable cost. Whilst stairlifts are very simple to use, they are mechanical devices and benefit from annual servicing and maintenance to ensure they continue to run efficiently.

All Handicare stairlifts have safety sensors on the power pack and footplate; these are designed to stop the lift if it meets any obstruction. There are also optional features such as a powered swivel seat and powered folding footplate; these can make using a stairlift even easier by allowing you to operate these functions at the touch of a button.

It is a popular misconception that stairlifts are fitted to the wall, they are usually fitted to the staircase itself. Most lifts will only take between 2-4 hours to install.

What happens next? Suttons will visit you to survey the staircase and conduct a user assessment leaving you the brochure and prices so you can make the decision in your own time. They aim to fit your stairlift within a week of your order or, where possible, within 2 days subject to availability.

With their inclusive and comprehensive 12 or 24 month warranty and 365 day coverage you can be assured of a first-class and personal service from Suttons Stairlifts.

Regency Care & Mobility in Crewkerne have a comprehensive range of mobility scooters, rise and recline chairs and living aids. Pop in today and receive a warm welcome!

Installation – Repair – Services

Suttons Stairlifts aim to provide an ethical, reliable and prompt service to their valued customers.

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Living aids Walking sticks Wheel Chairs Walkers & Tri-Walkers

10 Falkland Square, Crewkerne, TA18 7JS  01460 271172

www.regencycareandmobility.co.uk

“If you can’t come to us we will come to you” THE VISITOR February 2018 13

Sandpits Heating Centre, Curry Rivel

Sandpits Heating Centre are stockists of Rayburn by AGA, leaders in the field of central heating range cookers. Not only do Rayburn offer ‘Good food, hot baths, warm home’, their stoves also look stunning and, available in a range of colours and fuel options, there is sure to be a model well-suited to your living space.

Sandpits Heating Centre Stockists of

Good Food Hot Baths Warm Home

Beat the March price increase and order yours now Visit Our Showrooms - Open Six Days A Week Over 200 appliances on display Full installation service available High Street • Curry Rivel • Langport • TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 251476 • Fax: 01458 253505 www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk Large Car Park at Rear of Premises

14 THE VISITOR February 2018

Covered in multiple protective coats of high gloss enamel, each Rayburn cooker is unique and enduring. And, although they are built on heritage, Rayburns are by no means stuck in the past.

They offer a wide range of boilers to power any size of home, controllable and flexible programs and with solid fuel and ‘A’ efficiency rated gas and oil options, they are also a good

choice for environmentally minded customers. What’s more, 70% of every Rayburn is made from recycled materials.

Sandpits have a Rayburn 600 series working model in their showroom. A perfect chance to be wowed by the wonders of a Rayburn.

For a huge range of stoves, cookers, logs and DIY, and with Living Pretty and Kate Macey Design under the same roof, visit Sandpits Heating Centre, Curry Rivel, for all your homeware requirements.

Sandpits look forward to an exciting 2018 as they plan for a

new venture. Look out for more information about their future plans!

Garnett Plastering & Building, Tiverton

Garnett Plastering & Building carries out a wide range of services including maintenance and renovations, you can be sure of quality workmanship every time at a competitive price.

Here are some of the services they provide: Plastering, rendering, dry lining, painting & decorating, timber car ports/workshops, patios and general building.

Get in touch for a free quote.

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New heating regulations: What does it mean for you?

Homeowners looking to update and replace their heating systems this spring need to be aware of the new EU EcoDesign legislation, also known as Lot 20 within the industry, which came into force on January 1st this year.

The legislation requires all electric and gas space heaters to comply with minimum efficiency standards, but what does this mean for your average homeowner?

Christian Hadley, head of product marketing, from Dimplex, explains: ‘As we’ve seen with light bulbs, televisions and washing machines, the government supports the requirement that all electric heaters within the EU

must comply with a minimum energy efficiency standard, in order to help achieve the UK’s carbon reduction target.

‘This does not mean that we all need to immediately change our electric heaters. For those of you who are planning on updating your heating system, we would recommend you take a look at the latest EcoDesign compliant heating appliances to understand what best suit your lifestyle.

‘The advantage of EcoDesign compliant heaters is that they will include energy efficient controls to minimise the use of energy wastage in your home. These additional features mean the products might cost a little more than non-compliant products – which will still be on the shelves

until the stock levels run out – however, you will save more money in the long term with reduced energy bills.

‘At Dimplex, we put innovation in the heart of everything we do and many of our products are already EcoDesign compliant. We are dedicating ourselves to bringing new compliant devices to market so homeowners can be

confident that when buying from us, they are installing the latest technology and energy efficient products into their homes.’

For more information on Dimplex’s EcoDesign compliant products, visit www. dimplex.co.uk

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THE VISITOR February 2018 15

Dimplex Quantum Space Heater

Quantum is the world’s most advanced off-peak heater and the perfect replacement for any old, outdated storage heaters.

Quantum uses low-cost, off-peak energy to make it the most economical off-peak electric system on the market today.

With its sleek, modern, slimline design it can be installed as a standalone heater or part of a system in multiple rooms. Up to 90% of your heating is provided using low-cost, off-peak energy, storing it during periods of low demand and turning it into cost-efficient heat only when it’s needed. Quantum is up to 27%

cheaper to run and uses up to 22% less energy than a standard storage heater system. It is also up to 47% cheaper to run than an electric convector or radiator system. ERP: from £795 fully installed

Dimplex Q-Rad

Q-Rad, an intelligent electric radiator, combines the latest, most advanced technologies to give you maximum control over your heating. The radiator knows precisely how long it takes to reach the desired temperature and when to turn off as it approaches that target. This minimises the energy that it uses while maximising comfort – so

you stay warm for the lowest possible cost. Thanks to its low thermal mass, Q-Rad is able to heat up more quickly and react more responsively to changes in room temperature. ERP: from £298 inc. VAT Many new EcoDesign compliant products were launched by Dimplex from January 2018.

Turner Windows Somerton

Turner Windows Ltd has been established in Somerton for eight years, Craig Turner, having started the company in 2010 with the help of key staff such as Anne Perry as well as 2 teams of employed fitters and a salesman

Mike. Craig was a fitter made good, and has built up the company with a quality over quantity attitude, to enable their customers to have confidence when buying from them.

Now members of Checkatrade, you can be certain of receiving a quality-assured service. Further to this, Turner Windows website is full of positive feedback from very happy customers.

Proprietor Craig takes pride in being an active member of the community locally. Turner Windows are delighted to be the main sponsors for Somerton Rugby Club.

As well as offering installations of windows, doors and conservatories, they also carry out repairs to windows, doors and conservatories as it may not need replacing! Straight honest advice with no false discounts.

Turner Windows have also worked on commercial projects with clients including Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford and Clark’s Village in Street, Somerset to name just a couple.

Turner Windows are Approved LEKA Warm Roof installers, a high-quality product which can transform your conservatory into a space to be enjoyed all year round. Craig noted it as one of the best warm roof conservatory products currently on the market.

They are very pleased to announce that their professional and honest services in the industry are here to stay since they have recently bought the premises at Bancombe Trading Estate. As well as being the Turner Windows office base, the premises house seven brilliant showrooms. The showrooms feature a range of different products, full size bi-fold doors to conservatory warm roofs and glass roofs, composite doors, so that customers really can try before they buy.

So why not visit them at: www.turnerwindows.co.uk to see for yourself. For trustworthy and expert ad vice, visit Turner Windows at Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton or call 01458 272555.

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Global colour consultants for Farrow & Ball inspire striking new colourways for three iconic papers in their latest reimagined wallpaper collection

Colour experts Farrow & Ball are introducing three of its most popular wallpapers in striking new colourways, offering customers the opportunity to embrace the trend for more dramatic, vivid hues and bolder patterns within the home.

For the first time, individuals from the Farrow & Ball global team of colour consultants nominated new colour combinations for existing wallpaper designs and these are curated in the Reimagined collection.

Encompassing a damask, floral and striped print, the wallpapers have been given a fresh lease of life in time for spring using the Farrow & Ball colour palette. The final collection includes colour combinations picked from consultants in the UK, North America, France and Germany.

The extravagant Lotus paper makes an eye-catching feature in any home. Influenced by the Arts

& Crafts Movement, the artisanal lotus-flower design, drawn from 19th century French archives, has been given a renewed theatrical twist in inky colourways such as Off-Black and Brinjal.

‘The Off-Black and Brinjal colourway of Lotus works incredibly well in a more formal dining room where the lighting would be much more sympathetic.

I wanted the combination to be one of drama and richness to give an almost jacquard weave effect with a subtle but noticeable contrast

Wisteria Wallpaper by Farrow & Ball.

between the ground and print colour’, says Patrick O’Donnell, international colour consultancy manager.

The classic English floral pattern Wisteria, inspired by 19th century pure silk woven jacquards, captures the warmth of English romance in combinations emphasising its abundant, trailing design of blossoming flowers. With the metallic trend remaining an inspiration to brighten up interiors, the three new colour options include an arresting metallic copper arranged with Stiffkey Blue and Black Blue. The wallpaper is a perfect addition to a master bedroom as the metallic accents glimmer in the changing light.

The Farrow & Ball Block Print Stripe papers have been reimagined in sumptuous and unusual colourways such as Hague Blue, Vardo and Arsenic. The paper can be hung horizontally, vertically or reversed to create a bolder stripe double the width allowing it to be tailored perfectly to the room.

Like all the range of Farrow & Ball artisanal wallpapers, these

new releases are traditionally printed using real Farrow & Ball paints, creating papers with exceptional beauty and a uniquely textured appearance.

The new colourways are exclusively available to purchase from Farrow & Ball showrooms, stockists and online from 8th February 2018.

Frenchic launches Trim Paint

A subtle alternative to gloss, Frenchic’s Trim Paint is available in the same 10 colours as their Wall Paint, and is perfect for painting radiators, skirting boards, coving, metal piping, door surrounds and even glass. The paint has all the usual qualities you expect from Frenchic - EN:71-3 certified, odourless, washable, non-fading and quick drying - and is selfpriming, self-sealing and hard wearing leaving a smooth, lowsheen satin finish. One coat goes a very long way, with coverage up to 14m2 per litre.

Frenchic’s Trim Paint is available for £13.95 for a 500ml tin from www.frenchicpaint.co.uk

THE VISITOR February 2018 17

Seven smart home features that can save you money

By Liz Hughes

Advancing modern technologies mean that there are many ‘smart’ home features that can be

implemented into your property.

These devices may intelligently monitor their use, be programmed or simply use a clever design, all in the name of making your life easier and

reducing costs. In many cases, smart home features will not only save you money, they will be beneficial to the environment as well, reducing your electricity and water consumption. I spoke with

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18 THE VISITOR February 2018

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Energy efficient LED lightbulbs

Firstly, if you haven’t already, it’s time to switch over to energy efficient light bulbs. LED bulbs have largely replaced older, less efficient models in the majority of shops, but there are still people who haven’t yet changed over to the new style.

The fact is that LED bulbs not only require less energy to run, which reduces your electricity bill, they also have a much longer lifespan, meaning that you have to replace them less often. It doesn’t take long to replace your bulbs, and you will start to see the benefits immediately.

Automatic light timer

Of course, it’s also worth mentioning that it doesn’t matter

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smart home technology experts Smart Homes Company to learn more about the options available.

Here are seven fantastic smart home features that can be a huge benefit to you.

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if you have energy efficient bulbs if you are not using them correctly.

Many people waste energy by leaving lights on that they simply don’t need – this can be especially frustrating with children. It’s now possible to install intelligent lighting systems that work both with motion sensors or preprogrammed lighting paths that come on as you enter the house and turn off when they are no longer in use.

These systems can be combined with dimming bulbs to ensure that you get the perfect amount of light that you need without wasting energy. Working in conjunction with energy efficient bulbs, these have the potential to save you a significant amount of money.

settings through an app. This gives you the ability to turn it on 20 minutes before you get home to warm up the house – it also means that you can manually turn off the heating

if you realise you’re not going to be home. These should not be confused with smart meters, which are also a useful piece of technology for monitoring power usage in your home.

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Smart thermostat

It’s useful when you can integrate smart home technology with existing technology such as your mobile phone or other devices. For example, if you have a smart thermostat you can connect it to your phone and control its

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THE VISITOR February 2018 19

Remote power management

Similar to a smart thermostat, remote power management gives you the ability to turn off devices that you aren’t using through your mobile device. It’s all too common for energy-expensive devices like dehumidifiers, fans and more to be forgotten and left on when you leave for work, remote power management gives you the ability to turn them off when you aren’t home. It is especially useful for people who are prone to leaving on items like hair straighteners or irons. They will not only save you money but also make your home safer.

Programmable curtains and blinds

Letting in the sun is vital to saving you energy, especially in the winter. The sun is a natural and free source of warmth, but if you leave your curtains closed in order to keep out the cold during the winter, you can miss out on the sun’s rays.

Programmable curtains make it easy to leave the curtains closed

most of the time and set them so they are only open at the time when they catch the heat of the sun.

Smart extension leads

Leaving devices plugged in when they don’t need to be can be a huge source of wasted electricity.

One answer for this is the use of smart plugs and smart extension leads which automatically switch off plugged in devices when they are no longer in use.

Low-flow showerheads

Finally, remember that you can also use smart features to save water. It is worth investing in low-flow showerheads – standard showers use 12 litres per minute but changing to a low-flow head can reduce this to around 8 litres per minute.

This is achieved without the feel of the shower being any different from a standard model.

Reducing the amount of water used is excellent for the environment and will also

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decrease your water bill. This article was sourced from www.moneymagpie.com Visit MoneyMagpie.com the UK’s leading self-help money site for those seeking a richer life, for tips on making and saving money.

Doulting resident joyful at West Country Windows prize draw win!

One Somerset resident was left jumping for joy when she discovered she was the lucky winner of the West Country Windows Prize Draw. Laura Bishop from the village of Doulting near Shepton Mallet was the lucky recipient of West Country Windows £5000 holiday voucher provided by Yeovil based Miles Morgan Travel.

Laura said, ‘I couldn't believe it when I got the phone call from West Country Windows. It is the perfect way to start the year and my husband Chris and I will be putting it towards a very special holiday for our family as this year we both celebrate our 40th

birthdays. We can't thank West Country Windows enough for this generous prize.’

The prize draw was launched in 2017 by Yeovil based West Country Windows to celebrate 40 years of being in business.

Director Ken Ashplant said, ‘We are thrilled to see a Somerset resident win the prize; it was amazing to have over 28,000 entries to the raffle and it is fantastic that so many people entered our competition, helping to mark our 40 years in business.’ The winning entry was drawn earlier this week by Yeovil Mayor Darren Shutler.

West Country Windows is one of a handful of Somerset manufacturers with a business that is still run by two of the same directors who set it up in 1977; it holds a particularly unique position in the double glazing sector.

See website: www.westcountry windows.com or contact 0800 378 371 for more details of West Country Windows' product range. See advert on page 7.

West Country Windows prize draw winner, Laura Bishop, shows off her £5,000 holiday voucher.

Winter warning on moths with expensive tastes

A national trade body is urging people with a taste in expensive fashions to be vigilant to a pest which can create a costly riches to rags wardrobe malfunction.

According to the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), this is the time of year adult moths seek out suitable places for their larvae to feed – and firmly on the radar are costly cashmeres, wools and other materials of natural animal origin. Infestations can leave clothes, as well as other materials including rugs, carpets, upholstery and blankets, riddled with holes and sometimes beyond economical repair.

Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA technical manager, said: “In winter, adult moths search for suitable egg laying surfaces close to or on the food source of their larvae.

This food source will contain fibres of natural animal origin such as wool, including clothes, rugs or carpets, and even museum artefacts. “Larvae then feed on the material, creating holes throughout.”

According to BPCA, there are several species of clothes moths, all characterised by folding their wings tent-wise along their backs.

The most numerous species in the UK is the adult Common Clothes Moth, which is 6mm to 7mm long with pale, plain golden-buff wings fringed with hair.

Less common is the Case-

Bearing Clothes Moth, which is duller and has three dark brown spots on each of its wings.

To reduce the likelihood of either infesting a property, BPCA says good hygiene is essential, with the use of a vacuum cleaner to remove larvae and their cases significantly reducing occurrences or problem outbreaks.

Ms Ward-Thompson added: “Signs of a potential infestation can include sightings of adult moths, small holes appearing in materials and the appearance of Frass, which is a smooth, lined tunnel weaved by the larvae, which consists of silk and excreta mixed together.

“To prevent damage taking hold, the presence of flying or resting adult moths should be investigated and items of natural animal origin checked regularly so that any issues can be found and treated promptly.

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“Ultimately clothes moths can become destructive and professional input should be sought to ensure treatment plans are both safe and effective.

“Where an infestation is found, depending on the circumstances, BPCA members will usually advise a thorough vacuum of the

affected area and the property throughout.

“If necessary, they will use a highly targeted, specialist insecticide to control the infestation, followed up by monitoring with pheromone traps to detect how successful the treatment was.”

The BPCA website contains advice on clothes moths along with a search tool to find professional controllers in your area. Visit www. bpca.org.uk BPCA also provides further information relating to clothes moths in its A to Z of pest advice, available to view at https://bpca.org.uk/a-z-ofpest-advice/clothes-moth-control--get-r id-of-clothes-moths--bpca-a-z-ofpests/189171.

Further insight into the issues surrounding clothes moths can be found at: www.bbc.co. uk/news/science-environment39504494.

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THE VISITOR February 2018 21

Window Dressing Soft Fabrics and Effortless Style. New, innovative window dressing

Pirouette® is a brand-new innovation, there is nothing remotely like it on the market, because Luxaflex® believes window dressing can and should do much more than simply dress the windows. And Luxaflex® Pirouette® Shades do: as well as providing beautiful blinds for your windows, the construction with a single sheer and soft fabric vanes provides a clear view to the outside and the product design allows for unobstructed viewthrough, while maintaining a discreet level of privacy inside.

Distinctive ambience and privacy control in one.

Pirouette® Shades feature refined fabrics inspired by the organic beauty of raw silk and linen with a palette of soft neutral tones to breath-taking pops of bold colour. The beautiful sheer fabrics softly filter out brightness, glare and UV rays, protecting your furniture and flooring from

fading. The soft fabric vanes attached to a sheer backing that appear to be floating, draws natural light into the room. When closed the Luxaflex® Pirouette® Shades are designed to look like a contemporary shade. Available in fabric opacities, from translucent to room darkening and in a wide range of contemporary colours. For more information visit website: www.luxaflex.co.uk

SJH Carpets Wincanton

SJH Carpets in Wincanton offers a full measuring and fitting service on shutters and blinds, and work with Luxaflex to provide the latest designs, technology and safest window coverings available.

Their fabric department in Wincanton has an extensive fabric library stocking Prestigious Textiles and Chatsworth Fabrics, and they offer a bespoke curtain and blind service, a free measuring and estimating service

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22 THE VISITOR February 2018

and professional and helpful advice.

They also have a wonderful selection of carpets and flooring including naturals, vinyls, woods, laminates, tiles and luxury vinyl tiles (including Karndean, Moduleo and Harvey Maria).

They supply and fit Roger Oates runners, Crucial Trading floorcoverings, Rubber Flooring and all traditional carpets. Their knowledgeable staff can assist you through the difficult selection process and help you choose the right product that best suits your needs. They deliver and install at a price that competes with all the national chains.

Customer satisfaction means everything to SJH, and they offer their full attention from selection through to end of installation care.

Call SJH Carpets in Wincanton on 01963 824418 and get your free estimate for your upcoming project. Find the window dressings or flooring that perfectly matches your needs and unique personal style. Also at High Street, Tisbury.

Needful Things Interiors, Castle Cary

Needful Things Interiors offer a fully bespoke curtain and blind making service. From initial ideas sourced from their many fabric pattern books, to final completed

and hung curtains and blinds.

They will help you choose from over 400 books and make choosing simple and fun.

Followed by a full measure and quote which, when accepted, usually means you have your window dressings within 6 to 8 weeks.

Needful Things can also find you the perfect track or pole and arrange fitting if required. Their expertise doesn’t stop there; if you need made to measure headboards, bed throws or even made to measure sofas, do pop in and talk to them. They can arrange it all.

With famous brands such as Colefax and Fowler, Sanderson, Zoffany and Jane Churchill, Romo, Ian Mankin and Harlequin to name a few, you will find exquisite colours, textures and designs to compliment every room and breathe new life into your home.

So if you’re looking to refresh and renew this springtime, ask Needful Things Interiors of Castle Cary for their unhurried, friendly advice. They can be contacted on 01963 351352 or email Alison at needfulinteriors@gmail.com to arrange a measure and quote.

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Family Health with

Jenna Evans

K-Beauty Part Two

Last month we had a look at the 8 step K (Korean) Beauty morning Skincare routine. This month we’ll run down the 10 steps of the evening routine with a few simple homemade recipes for truly natural Skincare.

Steps One & Two - The double cleanse! First with an oil based cleanser/make up remover and then with a water based (think foaming/gel cleanser) to lift any residues. For step one simply using a good aromatherapy grade sweet almond oil can work very well, especially in combination with an organic face cleansing cloth. It is not so easy to make a home-made gel cleanser so I would suggest trawling your health food shop shelves as there are some good value and very pure ready made products on the market.

Step Three - Exfoliate. Time to slough away dead skin cells, exfoliation is designed to improve skin cell turnover and boost collagen by improving circulation.

This doesn’t need to be done everyday and those with sensitive skin should only do this once or twice a week. Exfoliation is the final step in making sure your skin is fully free of debris so all those nourishing products we’re about to use can be most effective.

Exfoliators are very simple to make. You can use solely dry ingredients or mix with oil, water or yoghurt. Bicarb, sugar, salt, oatmeal and coffee grounds are my favourites. Bicarb can be very cleansing; sugar and salt are a lot tougher and I wouldn’t use these on sensitive or aging skins; coffee grounds really pep up the skin and oatmeal is fantastic for irritable and sensitive skin types.

Step Four - Tone. This brings a little moisture back to the tissues and may help the skin absorb the products from the next few steps. Toners can also be chosen to suit skin type and treat problem skin. Rose Water is a refreshing all rounder and can be very cooling for inflamed skins.

Chamomile Water is great for sensitive skin. Lavender is soothing and calming but may be a bit drying for some skin types.

Step Five - Essence, a kind of toner-serum hybrid. Designed to hydrate and aid skin cell turnover. Want to make an easy Essence? Simply fill a glass spray bottle with half the toner of your choice (see above) and half the Ampoule (see below) et voila!

Shake, spritz and pat gently into your skin.

Step Six - Ampoule. Should be a concentrated version of the essence step designed to treat any skin issues, be that dryness, acne, enlarged pores, pigmentation or ageing. For our purposes, we’ll treat ampoule and serum as an aromatherapy oil selected for our skin type. In this step I’d use one of the lighter oils such as rosehip, apricot or camellia. You can add essential oils for extra punch. See my previous article for some suggestions or come and explore the wealth of information and aromatherapy testers we have instore!

Step Seven - Serum. A more concentrated treatment still. For extra moisturising this is the layer where you could break out an extra thick oil like wheatgerm, avocado, sesame or even break open a vitamin E capsule.

Step Eight - Sheet Mask.

Another intensive treatment chosen for your skin type. Sheet masks can be used once or twice a week, or everyday if you have that much time on your hands!

They do provide a nice 15-20 minute relaxation break which you’ve earned if you’ve been following steps one to six religiously! I love a good face mask and sheet masks have a certain novel appeal. We have a selection of bamboo sheet masks in-store or why not make your own? Make sure to get a good organic cotton or bamboo base and cut to your requirements (make sure you can breathe through it!). Then all you need to do is saturate this cloth with your chosen mask. The most basic can be made from clay and a little water, yoghurt or even honey.

Probiotic yoghurts on their own can also be used and will feed the good bacteria on your skin. You could also whizz up fruit or vegetable juice and pulp and slather that on the cloth. Get creative! The great thing about making your own is you can make

them hard-wearing and use them again and again.

Step Nine - Eye Cream. The skin around the eyes is very delicate and needs to be treated with some extra TLC. Remember to always gently tap (never rub!) products into this sensitive area.

My top tip for the eye area is find a product with comfrey as this super herb is an excellent skin nourishing, anti-ageing treat!

Step Ten - Moisturiser. Nearly there! This step is the final layer to hydrate, plump out and impart that sought after dewy glow to your skin. If you get really DIY skin care mad, then there’s a wealth of information out there for making a cream from scratch.

If you want to dip your toe into the make-your-own market then I suggest buying a good unscented base cream and playing around with adding essential oils, vitamins, herbal extracts and so on.

So there we are, probably about ready for bed after all that! But seriously, a daily dose of skin nurturing is a wonderful thing to do. Why not make it your time to send yourself a little bit of love and thank your face for all the assaults from air pollution, makeup and stress that it deals with day-to-day.

Jenna Evans ©2018.  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. 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.

Improved local access to lifechanging dental treatment

Access to life-changing tooth implant treatment in the Wincanton area is being improved with a special event staged by a Somerset dentist.

Dr James Main is inviting people with one or more missing teeth to discover how dental implants could help improve their quality of life, and increase selfesteem at work and at important social occasions. The event is on Saturday 24th February from 10am until 1pm at Wincanton Racecourse. Everyone attending will receive a free preliminary consultation, enabling them to discuss their individual

requirements with Dr Main.

According to Dr Main, ‘One of the first things that people will notice about you, is your smile.

They will often formulate their impression of you based on how your smile looks. I see many patients who find social events embarrassing or who are restricted in their food choices.

For people with missing teeth, failing bridges or loose and uncomfortable dentures, dental implants can be the answer.

Several of my patients who have been held back by their teeth, have told me that tooth implant treatment has helped to improve their confidence and oral comfort considerably.’

James Main has extensive experience in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He has been treating implant patients for more than twelve years and has placed over 900 implants. Often the procedure can be completed in a single day, providing fixed teeth that look, feel and function just like the real thing. This really can be life changing. One of James’ patients who opted for dental implant treatment explains: ‘It is great to be able to eat anything and laugh with confidence again – no denture, marvellous.’ Another patient adds, ‘I don’t know the difference between the implants and my own teeth. I can now eat without any discomfort.’

Dr Main says, ‘Each patient has individual requirements. To be sure of the specific benefits for you and the cost of your individual treatment, the best thing is to come in and see me.’

For more information, or to book an appointment, please contact The James Main Dental Partnership on 01458 832193 or 0845 603 1513.

See our advert on back cover.

The Dress Circle Dress Agency

QUALITY FASHION ITEMS WANTED TO SELL ON A COMMISSION BASIS Wedding hats, wedding outfits, cruise wear and good quality casual wear and accessories, accepted every day ...

10am - 4pm Monday - Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday

For large quantities collections can be arranged

4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY  01458 273485

THE VISITOR February 2018 23

Valentine’s Day Gifts with Forge Fabrics

Based at The Forge, Ring Street, Stalbridge we have a growing range of dressmaking fabrics, craft fabrics, haberdashery, knitting wool and supplies. Forge Fabrics also have a large library of curtain fabrics to order and a small selection on the roll, any of which can be made up for you into curtains, blinds or cushions in our workshop. This Valentine’s Day why not give your special somebody a gift with a difference? From workshops to needle felting kits to beautiful craft fabrics, Forge Fabrics is

certainly worth a visit if you are looking for a gift that your Valentine can get creative with.

Beautiful Valentine’s bouquets from Andrea’s of Yeovil.

‘Love Tree’ by Emma Nicolson.

An original mixed media painting on board.

The framed size is 78cm x 78cm and it is priced at £695.00.

Pictured: ‘Together for a long time’ by Sam Toft Limited Edition Giclee Print Framed price: £140 Edition size: 395 Image size: 24.1cms x 17.5cms Framed in a white washed effect moulding Full Framing Service Available

Martock Gallery Open: Monday – Friday 9.00 – 5.00, Saturday 9.30 – 4.30

Water Street • Martock • Tel: (01935) 823254 • www.martockgallery.com

Andrea’s of Yeovil

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Beautiful Bouquets ♥ Single Roses ♥ Arrangements ♥ Why not add a Box of Chocolates, Balloon or Teddy? ♥ ORDER EARLY FOR GUARANTEED DELIVERY DAY ♥ ♥

... be my

Valentine

x

Tel: 01935 706526 78 Middle Street, Yeovil, BA20 1LT

24 THE VISITOR February 2018

Beautiful Cards from Wild Cardz

Bespoke • Corporate • Events Parties • Weddings • Sympathy Local & Nationwide Deliveries

01963 32367

11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA

Romantic or funny, Wild Cardz of Wincanton will have a Valentine card to suit from their extensive range!

There are plenty of gift ideas too including a lovely selection of cuddly toys, including the new Blue Nose Friends range of collectables. Silk roses, foil balloons, and mugs. A new line recently introduced - personalised tea light holders for every occasion such as daughter, mum, friend,

home etc. at only £2.99.

Wild Cardz are now pleased to offer a quality card range from just 99p. For those who like to make their own cards there is a wide choice of craft card, ‘pick n mix’ your own selection. Fill a small box for £3.49 or large box for £6.99.

They are now also a UPS collection/delivery point for

parcels. Wild Cardz have balloons for all occasions – including wedding day arrangements.

Visit their website at www.wildcardzwincanton.com

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Ward & Sibley, the Jewellers of Yeovil, have a wonderful selection of engagement and wedding rings.



Gorgeous roses from Mayflowers of Gillingham.

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil For that someone special

20% OFF all Gem Jewellery during February

Choose any 3 Treatments for just £48  Discovery Facial (25 mins)

For a superb choice of fresh cut flowers & roses for your Valentine visit us at ...

2a High Street, GILLINGHAM

Tel: 01747 824424

Valentine gifts to treasure at

VALENTINE’S TREAT OFFER

Your local Interflora Florist

www.mayflowersofgillingham.co.uk



THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at rear for customers while visiting the shop

Mayflowers ... or why not order by phone or website?



LOCAL AND NATIONAL DELIVERIES AVAILABLE

tel: 01935 851221

 Eyelash & Eyebrow Tint with Eyebrow Shape

 Back, Neck, Shoulder Massage (25 mins)  Manicure  Pedicure

Treatments to be taken in one appointment  OFFERS RUNS THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY 2018

1 Trent Court, Trent, Sherborne, DT9 4AY

email: info@beauty-barn.co.uk  www.beauty-barn.co.uk THE VISITOR February 2018 25

Weddings

charity and monthly band nights from Acoustic to Rock are held at The Old Pound. Dogs are welcome in the bar at this traditional village inn: please keep them on a lead. Open from 10am – 5pm, Monday – Saturday.

Refrigerated trailers available for hire

The Restaurant at The Old Pound Inn at Aller - Weddings tailored to suit.

The Old Pound Inn at Aller

The Old Pound Inn is a traditional, friendly village Inn at Aller, Langport, with a good reputation for fine food, real ales and genuine hospitality.

Formerly known as the White Lion Public House, it was renamed The Old Pound Inn in 1980, as the Inn stands on the ground of the old village animal pound.

A varying selection of West Country beers is pulled from the sprung stillage in the cellar of this large 16th-century village pub. An open Dutch fire is a feature in the centre of the bar.

There is a restaurant, lounge and snug, with its own ghost.

Excellent food is served in the bar or restaurant where many murals of animals are on display.

Monthly quiz nights in aid of

Chill-out Somerset have 4 refrigerated trailers readily available. Each is 10ft long x 5ft wide, approx. 8ft high, fully insulated and consists of aluminium checker plate flooring, aluminium shelving, internal light, internal emergency door handle, two aluminium rear door steps, electric cable with plug and a tow bar hitch lock.

The trailers can be used to keep food and drink chilled, or temperatures can be adjusted for frozen food. They can be used for

outside catering and are ideal for events such as weddings, music venues and any outdoor based entertainment. The trailers are also of great use in the unfortunate event of an emergency.

For all enquiries please contact Martyn Jones on 07973 433586, email: chilloutsomerset@yahoo. com or send a message through the Chill-out Facebook page.

Rifleman Firearms - for a unique and memorable prewedding party experience

Rifleman Firearm’s air rifle range is the perfect location for a unique and memorable prewedding party experience, whether you’re a Hen or a Stag we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable experience shooting on our 90-Yard Air Rifle Range, all weather covered, heated and floodlit; perfect for any season and surrounded by

Welcome to

Aller • Langport TA10 0RA

The perfect wedding venue ...

 Function Room with Bar suitable for up to 100 guests  Restaurant (with Carvery) suitable for up to 50 guests  Menu tailored to suit your personal requirements  7 Letting Rooms

 Attractive Gardens  Ample Parking Further details on request

DELiCious FooD sERvED DAiLy Lunchtimes and Evenings

Inside Hooper’s Hat Hire of Yeovil.

Chill-Out Somerset

For all your refrigerated trailer requirements, outside events, etc.

CONTACT : Martyn Jones 07973 433586 EMAIL : chilloutsomerset@yahoo.com

Monday to Saturday 12pm - 9pm, Sunday 12pm - 4pm

 sunDAy CARvERy – £9.50  LivE MusiC with ‘Grungebob’ (Acoustic) Friday 26th January Quiz niGhT – Sunday 18th February LivE MusiC with ‘The Defibrillators’ (Rock & Roll) Friday 23rd February

 01458 250469 E: info@oldpoundinn.com www.oldpoundinn.com 26 THE VISITOR February 2018

Hooper’s Hat Hire YEOVIL

01935 706555 • www.hoopershats.co.uk

the Somerset Levels!

Complete with an onsite shop staffed with seasoned shooters with over a hundred years of collective experience between them, all ready to answer any questions and ensure you have a fantastic, memorable and safe experience!

There is access for disabled on site with toilet facilities and refreshments also available, various refreshments can also be provided, from simple cakes to luxurious buffets or, by arrangement, a full sit-down meal provided by the awardwinning Brown & Forrest Smokery who are also situated on site.

If you’ve never held a gun or shot before, then don’t worry!

Our wedding party packages include the following; • Lane Hire • Unlimited Shots • Airgun hire • Tuition So come and visit us at

Weddings

Bowden’s Farm in Hambridge (less than 15 minutes from both the M5 at Taunton & A303 at Ilminster) for an unforgettable party experience!

For bespoke party pricing or just for a chat call the dedicated team on 01458 253700, or check out the website at www. riflemanfirearms.com.

See advert in Leisure section page 33.

Haynes International Motor Museum

Often described as the perfect venue for the perfect wedding, civil ceremonies and receptions at Haynes International Motor Museum are something very special. The Museum has two unique locations that are licensed for civil ceremonies. Each area has its own special atmosphere and both provide a truly exceptional experience, not only for the bride and groom, but also for the wedding guests.

Drinks and canapés can be

served after the ceremony in parts of the Museum, allowing guests an opportunity to browse and enjoy the amazing exhibits.

The Museum can offer a variety of exciting room and function suite options for wedding receptions and they also have an in-house catering and hospitality team. The perfect ingredients to add to the perfect

venue for the perfect wedding!

For more information or to discuss your individual event please contact the venue hire team on 01963 442799 or email: venue@himm.co.uk

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

SALE 50% OFF SELECTED WEDDING OUTFITS SIZES 12-18 fashion boutique & designer room

Market Place • Wincanton  01963 31676 Hurry, sale ends soon!

THE VISITOR February 2018 27

AA Shooting School offering tailored tuition, clay shooting for everyone, Manston near Sturminster Newton, Dorset

AA Shooting School is a private shooting school specialising in shooting lessons for clay and game shooters. Targets are set with tuition in mind, to master the techniques required to progress. They offer one to one lessons and group activities; great fun for stag/hen parties or outings with friends and corporate guests. With a little tuition you will be blasting those fast-moving clays. They supply all the equipment and ensure safety requirements are met throughout. For more information or to book your shooting experience, contact Norman on 01258 440841/ 07914 918395 or email normanfuller shootinginstructor@gmail.com

Weddings

is Ultra Violet, described as ‘dramatically provocative and thoughtful’. Rich purples paired with crisp whites highlight the colour fantastically and it also works so well with silvers and golds, adding a regal element to designs. Soft greys, creams and pale pinks tone down the intesity, offering a more romantic colour palette.

Predictions say that couples will concentrate budgets on statement pieces. The beloved flower walls will morph into ceilings, floors and other structural installations. Head tables will be filled with flowers tumbling off the end to the floor.

Statement peices and hanging installations are going to be popular, according to Ricky Paul.

The Wedding Photographer

Wedding Flower Trends: What’s Hot for Florals in 2018

It seems that there is going to be an emphasis on ‘abundance’ with lots of luxurious blooms such as garden roses, orchids and of course the much loved peonies.

Surrounding guests with flowers of hanging installations, using clear glass, perspex and mirrors to highlight colours.

The Pantone colour of the years

Pastel colours will stay, they are the epitome of romance, but couples will be more daring with their choices and add pops of colour to their bouquets, stationery, tablescapes and fashion. Ricky Paul www.rickypaulflowers.co.uk

AA Shooting School offer one to one lessons and group activities; great fun for stag/hen parties or outings.

CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING SCHOOL Stag & Hen Do Activity Days

An Exciting Experience For Everyone Tel: 01258 440841 / 07914 918395 normanfullershootinginstructor@gmail.com

28 THE VISITOR February 2018

You should always book your wedding photography early and trust it only to an insured professional photographer, why risk trusting your most important day to anyone else? We have been offering professional wedding photography for over 25 years to over 300 weddings.

Our Wedding Packages and prices are tailored to suit all budgets and venues so please contact us.

Please visit our website to view our work at www.lionel mumford.com. We cover Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset and beyond including further UK and overseas locations.

Our Wedding Packages include basic cover, home, pre preparation and first dances, with or without wedding album packages, the choice is yours, come and discuss it with us.

Contact us on 07595 698788 (mobile) or 01935 700171 (home) or send an email to lionel@lionelmumford.com

Spring wedding outfits at Preview, Wincanton

Time flies and it will be wedding season before we know it! But don’t panic if you haven’t got your outfit ready yet: Preview Fashion Boutique, Wincanton, is the place for beautiful spring wedding attire.

Stockists of Condici, Luis Civit, Lizabella, Tina Taylor, Michaela Louisa and Joseph Ribkoff, there is sure to be something you’ll fall in love with at Preview. From hats to shoes, dresses to jackets, Preview has the perfect pieces for the big day, so even if you’re looking for the whole outfit, you’ll need to look no further.

Failsworth and Jane Anne Designs hats, Capollini and Lunar shoes (shoes from £99 and £59 respectively) tone in with the beautiful outfit colours, and the stunning range of jewellery finishes your look off perfectly.

Condici’s stunning outfits are crafted in silks and other highend fabrics and are available in a variety of colours to complement

For further details please visit our website below ...

any skin tone. The beautiful tailoring will ensure that you feel your best. Available from £799.

Intricate detailing, such as delicate gold threads can be found in Luis Civit’s stunning collection. Occasion wear to ‘wow’, these timeless designs will make you feel flawless and polished while the shapes, tailoring and fabrics will flatter.

Their jackets are incredible and may remind you of classic styles

by Chanel.

Lizabella offer gorgeous occasion-wear. Their two-piece outfits are available from £399.

Tina Taylor is a well -known label and the perfect choice for wedding or garden party guests.

Preview offer a warm welcome and a relaxed environment for you to browse and try on their extensive range.

Ward & Sibley Jewellers of Yeovil

Ward & Sibley Jewellers of Yeovil is a well-established

Weddings

family run business offering a comprehensive range of engagement and wedding rings.

If you are looking for that special ring, visit Ward & Sibley.

They carry an extensive range in stock and orders can normally be obtained within seven days. A bespoke service is also available to create a ring of your choice should you so desire. They can also recommend the best style of ring to sit with your existing ring(s).

If you are looking for gifts for the wedding attendants, you will find some very attractive pendants and earrings for the bridesmaids and stylish cufflinks, tankards and tie pins for the best man and ushers.

An engraving service is available to make the gifts extra special. For those looking for a gift for the happy couple there is a choice of crystal glassware and a wide selection of clocks, both traditional and modern.

Ward & Sibley Jewellers offers

good old fashioned service based on over 70 years that they have served the people of Yeovil and the surrounding area, along with a customer base all over the UK and abroad. Their staff, with many years’ experience in the trade, can offer expert advice on all matters connected to sales and repairs.

Pictured right: Couples will be more daring with colours in 2018.

The Jewellers of Yeovil Where Quality & Service Count

WARD & SIBLEY Extensive range of Wedding Rings Special Orders undertaken

THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

Spring Wedding Collection ... for the complete outfit

Condici Luis Civit Lizabella Tina Taylor Michaela Louisa Joseph Ribkoff Fashion Boutique Wincanton

A hat always adds a touch of glamour. Failsworth Hats are available from Preview of Wincanton.

Market Place • Wincanton  01963 31676 www.previewwincanton.co.uk THE VISITOR February 2018 29

Wine Holidays

It seems that as soon as we have written the last card, disposed of the Christmas wrapping paper, stuffed ourselves full of turkey, and swept up the pine needles, the advertisements start to appear on our TV screens and in our newspapers, encouraging us to shed those extra pounds, becoming leaner, trimmer and fitter. This year the government were swift to jump on the band wagon when it comes to telling us what to eat; as a result I strongly suspect that there will be a spike in the sales of fromage frais, malt loaf and crumpets.

The end of December is a busy time for me. As I work my little socks off in the run up to the holiday season, it is the anticipation of a well-deserved break that spurs me on. Whilst others yearn for the sun, I crave the opportunity to explore new horizons on the food and wine front.

Such trips can lead to the discovery of a ‘special’ wine that, once home, will conjure up memories of the amazing time I had while away; images of sitting on a sun-drenched terrace by the water, or intimate suppers in a unique setting. There is always the option of combining a city break or a resort holiday with the opportunity to sample the local tipple.

For short breaks close to home there are a number of reputable companies offering reasonably priced trips; great for shaking off the winter blues.

In the UK we are lucky enough to be on the doorstep of some of the world’s most prestigious wine regions. In many cases, vineyards have opened up to the prospect of keeping visitors on site by providing accommodation, which can often be on a par with the most luxurious hotels, along with prices to go with.

For the budget-conscious, certainly in countries like Spain and Portugal, there are many pousadas, finças or agrotourism properties that offer the vineyard equivalent of a farm break.

Past holidays have seen me exploring vineyards in Bordeaux, Portugal, Turkey and Cyprus, and a mad 24hour dash to the Champagne region when preparing for a national competition; as a professional wine tutor, I have also 30 THE VISITOR February 2018

participated in wine study tours to the Southern Rhône and Cahors in France as well as the Rhîne in Germany.

Such total immersion in a wine region can be an amazing experience, as wine producers showcase the best they have on offer.

I can recall a simply stunning German Trockenbeerenauslese which, at £300 a bottle, is well beyond my normal budget.

However, serious wine tasting can be something of an endurance test; long days with upwards of 30 wines a day to sample, and the tricky problem of resisting the urge to drink them all despite advice to the contrary. Great value for money though!

I have also learnt not to travel with just hand luggage on a budget airline; it can be disheartening not to be able to bring back my latest finds to share with friends.

Many companies specialise in wine and food related holidays, with good offers for early booking.

Worth a look is La Madelène, where expats Philip & Jude Reddaway welcome guests to their lovely 12th-century Provençal priory. Their itineraries include tastings by well-established producers, up and coming artisanal winemakers, and small domaine owners whose wines are hard to source beyond the region. The three-night ‘Domaines of the Southern Rhône’ tour begins with a delicious home cooked meal with wine, an overview of the wines to be tasted and background information on the area. Visitors are taken to an average of six vineyards a day, combined with al fresco meals and fine dining at top-notch restaurants in the area. Priced at £1400 per person, everything is included except travel to Marseille. Pleasingly, single travellers pay only a small supplement.

Phone: 0033 490 62 19 33, visit: www.rhonewineholidays.com or email: rhonewineholidays@ googlemail.com.

Grape Escapes offer several options including ‘Premium’, ‘Flexible’, ‘Self Drive Chateau Breaks’ and ‘Budget’ tours, as well as bespoke tours for individuals or groups. They cover France, region by region, and also Tuscany and Piedmont, Porto,

Ribero del Duero and Rioja. Be aware that prices do not include transport from the UK. This does however have the benefit of enabling travellers to make their own arrangements, taking advantage of cheap airfares.

Phone: 08456 430860 or 01920 468666, visit: www.grapeescapes .net or email: info@ grapeescapes .net.

Northumbria Travel specialises in cruise holidays and is popular with groups such as U3A and Rotary. They offer exclusive deals with many leading cruise lines and are now offering some holidays with no single supplements. Flights from regional airports and all meals with wine are included. On offer for wine lovers are trips to the Rhîne and the Douro.

Phone: 01670 829922, visit: www.northumbriatravel.com or email: beryl@ northumbriatravel. com.

Smooth Red has a wide range of trips to Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece and France. Their ‘Tuscan Gourmet Wine Experience’, offers a self-drive break, spending four nights in a classic Tuscan farmhouse in the Chianti area and includes a gourmet cooking class with wine, plus a chauffeurdriven private wine tour of boutique wineries in the Chianti Classico region.

Phone: 0208 8774940, visit: www.smoothred.com or email: sales@smoothred.co.uk.

Arblaster & Clarke is ideal for those really wanting to push the boat out. Their luxury escorted holidays for small groups are led by some of the world’s leading wine experts, and visitors get to taste great wines at famous chateaux and great estates.

Phone: 01730 263111, visit: www.winetours.co.uk or email: sales@winetours.co.uk.

LP-V.

Drinking Games: Survey reveals most unattractive drinks to order on a first date are shots and a pint of cider

Over 1 in 10 Brits judge their date by the drink they order on a first date. Nearly a quarter of people think 5 drinks is too much on a first date.

A third of people would end a date early if their date got drunk.

If we're thinking about starting a relationship with someone, we want to know that our values match, that we don't find their habits horrendous, and we have plenty of shared

interests. But it seems we might start judging our prospective partners even before they've had their first drink with us. British dating app, Trueview, conducted a survey of 1,000 people to find out how Brits really feel about alcohol on a first date.

We all know that often, drinking alcohol on a first date can help calm our nerves, and even make us more chatty and entertaining (in our own minds, at least!). But beware what kind of alcohol you actually order, as your date will actually be judging you on it. A Martini (shaken not stirred) could suggest they are quite sophisticated, while a pint of real ale may denote they are more down to earth.

But one type of drink it appears most Brits are agreed on not being good to order on a first date, is a shot.

27% of us find it the most unattractive thing someone could order during an evening aimed at getting to know each other. This is possibly because it suggests the shot drinker likes to consume high strengths of alcohol, in as short a time as possible which, as we all know, can quite probably lead to some chaotic behaviour. Shots are fine on a stag do; less so when you're trying to find out if the other person is as into Stranger Things as you are, or whether they want marriage and children.

Both men and women find ordering shots equally unattractive, and the second most unattractive drink their first date could order is a pint of cider - nearly a quarter of Brits (24%) would be turned off by the alcoholic apple drink. A notinsignificant 13% of us find our date ordering a pint of beer unacceptable, which is a bit of a concern as it's probably one of the most widely drunk beverages in the UK. 12% of us would regard someone ordering a drink with no alcohol in it at all with suspicion, even though they're far more likely to be well behaved, not to mention actually remember the conversations that were had the morning after.

Less ill regarded are red and rose wine, with 8% and 7% of Brits respectively finding those offputting. Only 3% of us would find someone ordering a spirit with a mixer, such as gin and tonic, unattractive, and just 2% think ordering a cocktail is bad. Order a white wine, however, and you're bound to be in with a good chance; precisely none of us – 0% - find that in any way unattractive!

All In The Balance

All in the Balance is a family run business in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, specialising in the restoration, repair and sale of vintage watches and timepieces. With local independent shops closing all around it seems that finding someone who has the experience and know-how to restore treasured possessions is becoming a lot more of a challenge.

However, at All in the Balance, when it comes to a treasured

watch or clock, you can rest assured that your timepiece will be lovingly restored/repaired to a very high standard. Michael Elderton, who is a member of the British Watch and Clockmakers Guild and the British Horological Institute, has many years of experience in the watch industry and a passion for the restoration of all vintage watches and timepieces. For any further information please contact Michael on 01963 365749, 07926 980381 or email info@ allinthebalance.co.uk

Antiques Fairs

•

Chasty Cottage Antiques

•

saturday 17th February Digby hall, hound street, next to Library shERBoRnE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1

Future Date: saturday 17 th March  01963 370986 www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

Read online at: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk THE VISITOR February 2018 31

February Notice Board MARTOCK

Martock Parish Church, 7.30pm Thursday 8th February 7th visit by Mike Denham's Sunset Cafe Stompers, playing Ragtime, 1920s Jazz (Morton, Oliver, Armstrong, Bix, Ellington) and popular tunes from the interwar years. Vocals by Hamish Maxwell. £9 on door, £8 from 01935 822706.

KINGSDON

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra String Serenade Resonate Strings at All Saints Church, Kingsdon, Friday 2nd February 7.30pm. Tickets £12 available from 01935 840912 07745 015514 or Kingsdon village shop.

MERE

Creative Days 10.30-4.30 one day workshop £50.00: An Introduction to Watercolour Friday 2nd February & Collage Friday 2nd March both at Mere Lecture Hall.

Watercolour Club: 6 sessions for £90.00. Mondays 7.00-9.00 Mere Lecture Hall starts 19th February.

GILLINGHAM

Creative Printing Thursday 1 5 t h F e b rua ry a t V i ca ra g e School Room, Gillingham.

Watercolour Club: 6 sessions for £90.00. Thursdays 2.004.00 Vicarage School Room, Gillingham. Starts 22nd February.Enrolments: www.laura-jolliffe.co.uk.

ADVERTISE YOUR MARCH 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 March issue, Friday 9th February.

32 THE VISITOR February 2018

Somerset Wildlife Events in February

Wildlife Wanders 2, Thursday 25 January, Thursday 22nd February, Sunday April 8th 10:30 - 11:00. Join Somerset Wildlife Trust for a stroll around the River Tone looking out for the wildlife that lives there. The walk will take around half an hour and will cover just over 1km. This will be a gentle walk with regular stops along the way. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear. Where: St James Church, St. James Street, Taunton TA1 1JS. Contact/Booking Information: Olivia on 01823 652400 or email events@somersetwildlife.org.

Cost: Free.

Unseen and Underground: Why Our Geological Heritage Matters, Friday 26/1/18 19:30–21:00.

Lurking behind the soil, plants and wildlife that help sustain our living landscapes. Elemental forces of rocks and weather shape our view of the world, nourish our communities and offer vital lessons of Earth’s systems. In this

presentation, Sam Scriven of Jurassic Coast Trust will explore these ideas. Parish Hall, North Street, Ilminster TA19 0DG. Cost: Members £2.50/Non-members £3/Children & Students £1.

Hummingbirds, Tuesday 6/2/18 20:00–21:15. Dr Rob Williams talks about the stunning variety of hummingbirds found only in the Americas, and examines their evolution, ecology and diversity.

Caryford Hall, Ansford, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Cost: Members £2.50/Non-members £3/Children & Students £1.

Somerset's Coast and the South West. Tuesday 6 February 19:30 - 21:30. Nigel Phillips, Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Coastal Ambassador, will present this talk primarily about the wonderful wildlife on Somerset’s coast but will also share his knowledge of other great coastal places close by. St.George’s Catholic School, The Mount, Taunton TA1 3NR. Contact: Simon Briggs, Tel: 01823 270529 or email: simon.briggs

So, you think you know your pop music, do you?

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 47

1. Who made their debut in 1979 with ‘Sultans of Swing’?

2. ‘Atomic’ was a 1980 hit for whom?

3. ‘Transformation’ is the latest recording from whom?

4. Who sang about ‘Me and Mrs Jones’ in 1973?

5. How do we best know Eilleen Regina Evans?

6. Which country did Helen Reddy come from?

7. ‘Jennifer Eccles’ was a 1960's hit for which band?

8. Lyric; ‘Your friends with their fancy persuasions don’t admit that it’s part of a scheme’

9. Who made the album ‘Stanley Road’?

10. ‘Blackbird’ appeared on which Beatles album?

Question impossible

‘Keep on Dancin’ was the first hit for the Bay City Rollers (1971), but which American band had the original 1965 hit?

Great Quotes in Music (95)

‘Being famous was extremely disappointing for me. When I became famous it was a complete drag and it still is a complete drag’ – Van Morrison –

@somersetwildlife.org. Cost: Members £2.50/Non-members £3/Children & Students £1.

An Introduction to the Moths of Somerset, Wednesday 7/2/18 19:30–21:30.Join John Bebbington of the Somerset Moth Group to gain an insight into moths, the invisible part of the lepidoptera family. Find out exactly what is flying through your local area while you sleep.

Shapwick Village Hall, Station Road, Shapwick TA7 9NJ. Cost: Members £2.50/Non-members £3/Children & Students £1.

Snowdrop Open Days, Friday 9th and Saturday 10th February 10:30-15:30. The Three Acre Garden at Higher Yarde Farm offers stream and ponds and an amazing display of Snowdrops, Helebores and Winter Aconites.

Higher Yarde Farm, Staplegrove, Taunton TA2 6SW. Contact: Simon Briggs, Tel: 01823 270529 or email: simon.briggs@ somersetwildlife.org. Cost: £5.

Open Wildlife Garden, Saturday 16/2/18 11:00–15:00 Snowdrop Garden. This beautiful garden will open for their stunning Snowdrop display.

Please bear in mind that as with all flowers, we cannot guarantee that they will be at their finest on this date, but we hope so!

No refreshments on site, however, tea and cake available at The Lanes Hotel at £7.00 per person. Parking available on the road in the village. No dogs allowed at this particular garden.

Due to the terrain of this garden there is no disabled access. The Hall, 1 High Street, West Coker, Yeovil BA22 9AG. For more information please email Emma Jones at emma.jones @somersetwildlife.org. Cost: £4

per person.

Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve, Saturday 17/2/18 10:30–12:30. The bird list at Westhay continues to increase, and late winter is a good time to see many of the overwintering birds, including some rarities.

Mick Ridgard will take us around this key SWT Reserve to see what’s about. Westhay NNR car park. Cost: £2.50/Children & students £1.

Ladybirds, Tuesday 20/2/18 19:30–21:30. Brian Pincen looks at the identification of British Ladybirds, their life cycles, predators, habitats and conservation. The Parish Rooms, Market Square, Somerton, TA11 7NB. Cost: Members £2.50/Nonmembers £3/Children & Students £1.

The Wildlife of Devon from Shore to Moor, Friday 23 February 19:30. John Walters ecologist, wildlife illustrator and film-maker will present an exploration of the wonderful variety of wildlife in Devon. The south coast's tompot blennies,

pipefish and squat lobsters of the rockpools. Amazing display of the male rufous grasshopper and snail shell nesting bees on the undercliff. Dippers, goosanders and mandarin ducks in the river valleys. Heaths and moors include potter wasps moulding nests from mud, the world's largest slug with its bizarre mating habits. Cuckoos duping meadow pipits to raise their young. Tea & coffee available.

Parish Hall, North Street, Ilminster TA19 0DG. Parking at roadside of town car-parks.

Contact/Booking Information: 01460 234551. Cost: No charge for children. Adult members £2.50, non-members £3.

Cary Amateur Theatrical Society (CATS) ‘Oh! What a Lovely War’

This February, with a bit of a ‘local’ spin on it and in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the end of the Great War, Cary Amateur Theatrical Society (CATS) brings you ‘Oh! What a Lovely War’, created by Joan Littlewood.

A satirical critique of the First World War, the production is set shortly after the end of the War and very much adopts the music hall style of that period.

It features a group of travelling actors, portraying many characters of the time such as soldiers, generals, suffragettes, politicians, profiteers and spies, parading before the audience in a series of quick-fire scenes. It is an extremely fast-pace, colourful yet thought-provoking show with a mix of heartbreakingly sad, breathtakingly bizarre and highly amusing scenes, most accompanied by songs of the time, many of which are parodies of older popular songs that are still widely recognised today.

So, why not come along and be a part of the commemoration and enjoy the spectacle? The show runs from Wednesday 14 to Saturday 17 February 2018 at Ansford Academy, Castle Cary, starting each evening at 7:30pm.

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Roll up, roll up!

The Gardens Group announces free February half-term events

From creepy crawlies and magnificent birds of prey to plate spinning and diablos, The Gardens Group has plenty of free activities to keep the whole family entertained during February half-term.

Whether it’s getting better acquainted with mini beasts, mastering circus skills or getting CATS presents

Oh! What a Lovely War To commemorate the centenary of the end of the Great War.

14 - 17 February 2018 7:30pm at Ansford Academy, Castle Cary Tickets £10, available online at www.thelittleboxoffice.com/cats or from ‘Needful Things’ in Castle Cary

THE VISITOR February 2018 33

up close and personal with falcons and hawks, everyone is welcome to join in with the fun at Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil and Castle Gardens in Sherborne.

Free February half-term events:

• Sharandys Birds of Prey Saturday 10 February from 2pm - 5pm at Brimsmore Gardens, Yeovil • Bugfest - Saturday 10 February from 2pm - 5pm at Brimsmore Gardens, Yeovil • Julia’s House Craft Day Tu e s d a y 1 3 F e b r u a r y f r o m 10:30am - 3:30pm at Castle Gardens, Sherborne • Gosmina Circus Skills Workshop - Wednesday 14 and Friday 16 February from 1:30pm - 4:30pm at Castle Gardens, Sherborne.

For more information about events at The Gardens Group, please visit w w w. thegardeneronline.co.uk

Say you saw it in The Visitor

The Gartell Light Railway 2018 Model Railway Exhibition

The Gartell Light Railway near Templecombe welcomes you to its 13th Model Railway Exhibition held at the “Pines suite” at Common Lane, Yenston BA8 0NB. The exhibition will be signposted from the A357

French Navy Rafale M to appear at RNAS Yeovilton Airday 2018.

Photo: Paul Johnson / Flightline UK.

between Templecombe and Henstridge.

There will be over 10 layouts in various scales together with historical displays, trade stands as well as refreshments. There is ample free parking and disabled access to the exhibition and all facilities.

The Gartell Light Railway will be running an hourly diesel-

hauled train from Common Lane to Park Lane and return for a reasonable extra charge.

The first open day of the railway, when three trains will be running with diesel and steam locomotives, will be on Easter Bank Holiday Monday April 2nd.

Please see our advertisement for details or go online at newglr.weebly.com

BOOK REVIEW

The Shardoran Implication Abi Griffin ISBN: 9781974052691 £15.00 Coast & Country / Ads2life

The Gartell Light Railway near Templecombe welcomes you to its 13th Model Railway Exhibition.

34 THE VISITOR February 2018

Local writer Abi Griffin, who lives in Zeals, Wiltshire has published two fantasy horror novels that were created after several years of writing during her work lunch breaks.

The Shardoran Implication and A Blade to the Heart begin a series which she intends to complete with two further novels.

The Shardoran Implication sees Callie Fawcett leave an ordinary life and accidentally enter the fantastical world of Káuada.

Abi Griffin’s descriptive writing style brings to life the intriguing characters that feature in her novel.

Both of her novels are available

to buy from Amazon in paperback for £15.00 each or to download for free in the Kindle Edition. Abi is currently working on her third novel which she hopes to publish in the summer of 2018.

French Navy Confirmed for RNAS Yeovilton Air Day

The French Navy have confirmed their support for the Royal Naval Air Station International Air Day on Saturday 7 July.

Headlining their contribution is the return of the fantastic Rafale pair role demonstration.

So far, flown at no other UK airshow, it’s an award-winning, all-action routine that highlights the French Navy’s cutting-edge multirole carrier fighter aircraft to scintillating effect. The display showcases both present day frontline naval tactics and the exceptional performance capabilities of the fast, powerful and agile Rafale M. The French Navy is also contributing an exceptionally rare Atlantique 2 to the flying display.

This charismatic maritime patrol aircraft has not performed in British skies for over 15 years, so will be a major highlight.

The Atlantique 2’s capabilities include submarine escort, surveillance, intelligencegathering and electronic warfare

on missions lasting up to 18 hours.

In addition to the flying display aircraft the French Navy will have three aircraft on static display. The NH90 NFH Caiman is a state-of-the-art frigatelaunched anti-submarine helicopter and the French Navy example will make its Air Day debut. The French Navy Lynx represents an older generation of anti-submarine capability and the fleet remains operational for now although, after 40 years’ service, retirement looms.

Finally, one of the naval air arm’s Falcon 50Ms will be making a rare appearance at Air Day. This widely-tasked maritime surveillance aircraft is equipped with specialised mission systems and its capabilities include search and rescue, fishing patrol operations and counter-narcotics missions.

Early Bird tickets, with no booking fees, are available until Wednesday 31 January from www.royalnavy.mod.uk/yeovilton -airday.

FEBRUARY ...

Fri 2nd

Sun 4th Fri 8th

Wed 14th Sun 18th

AN ADVERT IN THE PUB PAGES ENSURES A FREE MENTION HERE!

BuD MARTin Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil nAThAn Jon snELL The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 3.30pm start PAuL sMiTh soLo shoW Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil sinGER Ross kiRk The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon Too MuCh sTuFF The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 3.30pm start

So, you think you know your classical music, do you?

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 47

1. What was Mendelssohn’s first name?

Franz Felix Hector Johann Joseph

2. in which year did the sydney opera house open?

71, 72, 73, 74 3. Ludwig van Beethoven composed how many piano sonatas?

12, 18, 24, 28, 32 4. A standard piano has how many keys?

82, 84, 86, 88

5. in which language would you find instructions on a classical music score about how it should be played? i.e. loud/soft/slower/faster etc.

English / French / German / Italian / Old Flemish / Spanish 6. The ‘leader’ of the orchestra is: a) The Conductor b) A Violinist c) The Pianist 7. Who wrote ‘The William Tell’ overture?

Bach, Ravel, Mahler, Rossini, Mantovani

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8. What term is used to describe a composition in which one or more solo instruments are assigned leading roles, often with orchestral accompaniment?

Opera, Concerto, Operetta, Recital, Symphony

9. With which musical instrument do we associate sir yehudi Menuhin?

Piano, Violin, Percussion, Bassoon

10. ‘A cappella’ means ‘in the church style’ but does this mean: a) Instruments only b) Singing without instrumental accompaniment c) Played without recognisable time signature THE VISITOR February 2018 35

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park

A Little Uncertainty

It’s very much ‘into the unknown’ with this month. Clearly, the days are getting longer at a steady pace; about 4 minutes a day and the strength of the sun is improving little by little, but February can be one of the worst winter months.

Mid-January sometimes throws up a mild spell but after that it could do anything. Soil temperature is critical for plant growth, and for most plants (except weeds of course!) it needs to reach

6°C for at least a week to start things off. So, how can you tell?

If I really knew what the weather was going to do then … but I can only make a guess, which I’ll keep to myself if you don’t mind. Rest assured, I will let you know if I’m right!

January has raced away as it does every year leaving the memories of Christmas as a blur.

My good intentions of getting ahead in the dead month have faded rather, but I am not

February - a good month for pruning.

downhearted. I made some progress – just not as much as I would have liked. (Hey! Relax – this gardening is supposed to be restful! How contradictory!)

Pruning is one of those jobs that you can get stuck into while plants are still dormant. Take time to prepare. Firstly, I read up on the plants I intend to prune – my memory is not 100% and I often miss things, so I feel a lot better if I’ve checked before I start. Some plants need thinning, some need cutting back and others should be left alone.

Secondly, check the equipment – must, repeat must, have sharp secateurs, a sharp knife to trim away ragged edges and a good pruning saw you know (with a curved blade that cuts only as it is pulled). For most jobs you also need a robust set of step ladders, leather gloves and a pot of Medo canker paint with an old ½” paint brush as this is an invaluable, quick way of protecting large cuts from fungal or bacterial spores while the cut is healing.

Pretty well all hardy, deciduous shrubs can be tackled now. Bear in mind that early spring flowering plants flower on the growth they made last year, so if you prune Forsythia hard in February then you will see very little flower this year. Best left until after flowering unless it really does need thinning out and reducing in size.

In most plants the terminal bud (at the top of the branch) is the one that wants to be dominant.

It controls, or rather inhibits, the growth of lower buds. Remove it, and the other buds will start to grow rapidly, changing a single shoot plant into something bushier and more useful in the garden.

But first, you should always look at the plant and establish exactly why you want to prune it at all. Does it need it? Health?

Prune out damaged, diseased or

dead growth. Size – has it outgrown its space? Shape? Is it going to make the type of plant you want? This will include mopheaded trees, pollarded trees, coppiced shrubs and climbers with neatly espaliered (layered) growth, as well as plants that need to be cut back regularly to encourage strong, young productive growth. Many summer flowering shrubs that flower on growth made in the same season must be pruned to give a good display.

Roses left unpruned gradually reduce in vigour and flowering ability. The eternal question is; when to prune? There are many experienced rose gardeners who give a rough pruning in November to reduce the top growth in case of wind-rock over winter, they then prune hard in February or March. New growth will give flowers early, but it can get hit by cold, frosty weather and be set back. This leads to a discussion on climate change – which I don’t intend starting here.

You must make your own judgement, but I feel that in this part of the world most varieties, and especially shrub roses, will tolerate early handling. Climbing roses are not as difficult as most people imagine – especially when the stems are bare. Simplify the main framework and shorten side shoots to about 6”.

Coloured, stemmed dogwoods and willows should be left until the end of March, as their effect is greatest in the dull, early spring months. I would leave evergreen shrubs until March or April before pruning them, as they can be damaged by cold frosty weather.

Although, real toughies such as Mahonia Japonica and Eleagnus can be pruned anytime. Mahonia should have just about finished flowering, and taking the top growth out encourages bushier growth and less leggy habit.

In the fruit garden, apples and

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pears can be done. A few rules to apply; if you prune hard the tree will react by producing strong growth. Winter pruning should reduce excess growth made the previous year, thin out fruiting spurs and remove dead, diseased or damaged growth (the 3 Ds).

Also, importantly, take out crossing growth – shoots that cut across others. Without the leaves it is so much easier to see the shape of the tree and sort it out.

Remember that some apple varieties are tip bearers. You can spot these by the long shoots that carry large flower buds at the end of the shoots, and not along the length of the shoot as spur bearers do.

Peaches, apricots, cherries and plums rarely need a lot of pruning and are best left until June.

Other pruning – cut back hard any clematis varieties that flower after the beginning of July, lightly prune early varieties or those who flower both early and late. Light pruning means taking out unnecessary growth and the three Ds.

Plants looking good now!

There are some really special plants that do their thing in February.

My favourites are without doubt the Daphnes: not easy to grow but their sweet scent is so rewarding. The evergreen Daphne Odora is perhaps the best for scent and makes a smallish shrub, hardy growing in sun and partial shade preferring a humus, rich, loamy soil that holds moisture but doesn’t get waterlogged. In other words a good garden soil.

The real stars of spring are shooting through now – bulbs of all sorts rushing to do their thing before the trees and shrubs are in leaf and block out the light. Spring flowering bulbs are normally planted in the autumn but if you missed them you can now find pots of bulbs that can be used in tubs and borders in most garden centres.

Jobs for the Month

• In the vegetable garden, tidy up and clear an

area for early sowing, and cover with black plastic which will soak up the sun’s warmth and keep the soil dryer, giving you a head start for early sowing salads, carrots spinach, peas etc.

• Asparagus beds should be weeded, fed and mulched as deep as you can and rhubarb really likes a good mulch with organic matter, a decent layer of straw or leafmould. Then cover with a forcing pot or, more likely, an up-turned bottomless bucket.

It is hard to find good rhubarb varieties – you will mostly be offered old standbys such as Timperley Early. But if you ever see varieties with Cawood or Stockbridge in the title, then grab them. These came from the Rhubarb Breeding centre in Yorkshire. Unlikely, but wonderfully true.

• Fruit garden – apart from top fruit pruning, sort the raspberries out. Summer fruiting varieties need the old canes that fruited last year removed, and the new ones tied onto their supports.

Autumn fruiting sorts should be cut down pretty well to ground level as they flower and fruit on current year’s growth – the rule applies!

(available from your local garden centre) added at this stage work with the developing roots and make a real difference to how a new plant grows.

If you are planning a rose

garden then this could be a good month to get it underway.

Certainly, you should have a good choice of varieties available to you – better than if you wait until the late spring.

Plan now for a wonderful rose garden this summer.

•It’s a good planting time for deciduous trees and

shrubs, including native, fruit and ornamental trees as well as hedging plants. The golden rule is that you can plant anytime the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged.

On clay soil it is easy to create problems by inadvertently digging a sump which then takes the water from the surrounding garden. The answer is to dig carefully, and make sure that the bottom of the hole is loosened with a fork so that some drainage will take place. Then, when planting, mix in a good quantity of coarse grit and well-rotted organic matter and fertiliser (bone meal, Vitax or a good rose fertiliser). Mycorrhizal Fungi

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Gardening author Anna Pavord to talk at Shaftesbury’s Snowdrop Festival

‘If you’ve caught the gardening bug then you will be saved for life,’ Anna Pavord told me. ‘When you’re feeling down, gardening helps immeasurably.’

Anna’s unique and uplifting perspective on Britain’s favourite outdoor pastime has delighted her newspaper article readers for decades.

And as raindrops streamed down the window, Anna surprised me by sharing her joy in Britain’s unpredictable climate.

‘It’s that uncertainty that makes the gardener feel gaiety and delight,’ she explained. ‘You don’t have the faintest idea of how it’s going to end up so you make the most of the moment.’

With such unbridled enthusiasm for gardening, I could understand why Anna’s Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival Study Day talk is expected to be a sell out.

Anna believes that her distinctive writing style is a result of a childhood visit to an Abergavenny chapel, where an orator’s powerful words from the pulpit made a lasting impression on her. ‘The Welsh love words,’ Anna smiled. ‘You are brought up with wonderful language and singing around you.’

The author’s first copywriting

Pictured: Author Anna Pavord. Photograph: Keri Jones.

job honed her keyboard creativity and made Anna the perfect choice for The Independent’s gardening column, in time for the newspaper’s 1986 launch.

Anna’s journalism duties introduced her to “real snowdrop people” including bulb specialists

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Matt Bishop and Alan Street, who enthused about Shaftesbury’s celebration.

‘These gatherings have become a big thing because snowdrops are a mania,” Anna said. “On eBay, people can pay hundreds of pounds for single bulb.’

Snowdrops haven’t quite reached the historic value of tulips, the subject of Anna’s 1998 best selling book. And even if that happened, Anna’s passion for snowdrops can’t be measured in pounds. She told me that she’s fond of the flowers because of their simplicity. ‘They enchant me,’ Anna said. ‘I love the way in which they naturalise, shaking hands between your garden and the wider landscape beyond. I like to see snowdrops growing in valleys and down banks, rather than a special bulb on its own selling for £60,’ Anna explained.

Throughout our chat, Anna

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38 THE VISITOR February 2018

Utilise the generous grants now available to restock neglected woodland or areas of wasteground

stressed how gardens and gardening can enhance people’s lives.

‘John Sales used to be the National Trust’s Head of Gardening and he brought me two snowdrops, Anglesey Abbey and Lynn, as presents. Our gardens become a web of memories. As we walk through them we remember how we got the plants and recall the people who brought them to us,’ said Anna.

Anna’s talk will focus on the different bulbs that gardeners can plant on a month-by-month basis to ensure year-round interest in the garden. Anna promises that she won’t be issuing a ‘to-do list’ during her lecture. Anna intends to inspire her audience.

‘I would like people to go away feeling excited about the year ahead and thrilled that they have caught the gardening bug,’ Anna told me.

And with Anna’s extensive knowledge and her infectious passion, I expect the bug will spread rapidly.

Anna Pavord spoke with Keri Jones. Anna’s horticultural lecture takes place between 3pm and 4pm on February 10th at Shaftesbury Arts Centre. Tickets are £12 from the Box Office.

The top five health benefits of gardens, chosen by National Garden Scheme garden owners

The National Garden Scheme has been helping garden owners open their gardens to raise money for nursing charities since 1927, and subsequently the link between gardens and health has always been prevalent in their work. To further delve into the reasons gardens can benefit a person’s health, The National Garden Scheme has been gaining feedback from their most valuable resource, their garden owners and visitors.

Over 600 of their National Garden Scheme garden owners responded to an online health survey, here are their top five health benefits of gardens and gardening:

Gardens can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health:

Perhaps a widely assumed statement that 91% of garden owners surveyed agreed with, affirming that having access to a garden has had a positive impact on either their physical or mental health.

‘Many years ago I was becoming very depressed, but gardening gave me a focus and, since becoming a keen gardener, I’ve never looked back. ‘Following an accident 10 years ago I was able to walk only 30 metres with walking aids. Gardening helped me to gradually rehabilitate so that I am now able to walk freely.’

Gardens and gardening can help you to feel happier:

National Garden Scheme Garden Owners agreed that gardening was the perfect way to de-stress and get through any periods of sorrow, depression or anxiety, with 70% agreeing that their garden gave them a feeling of happiness and positivity.

‘I lose myself in the garden, all stressful thoughts disappear, and watching nature puts everything into perspective.’

Gardening helps to keep you active for longer:

Garden owners felt their physical strength was improved because of gardening, including better recovery from illness or having better than average health for their age. 85% of garden owners who answered the question ‘Does gardening help you with mobility on a day to day basis?’ responded that it did.

‘We have a large garden which means there is always something to do. My father in law, still a keen gardener, was 100 years old last month.’

Gardens & gardening can help relax you:

74% of garden owners surveyed said that they use their garden for relaxation, whether by gardening or relaxing in their garden and enjoying their achievements.

‘It would be better put that I would be less fulfilled and

relaxed, and more anxious were I not to garden.’

It is great for building muscle and stamina:

Many garden owners commented that gardening helped them build muscle, including after treatment, like orthopaedic surgery.

When asked how gardening has helped them physically,

one garden owner commented: ‘[Gardening] helps to keep you flexible. I’m 70 this year and can still bend down and touch my toes easily. When gardening you are using all your muscles to bend and stretch and as long you don’t overdo it. Constantly using my hands has helped keep arthritis at bay apart from the odd twinge.

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www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk THE VISITOR February 2018 39

Pete Lambden & Staff welcome you to .....

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

FIRST PERSON to tell me the song above gets a free drink. Last month, no one got the song which was Mariah Carey and ‘All I want for Christmas is you’ which means that it was too hard or no one is reading my ad!  Greetings, pop pickers! Little bit late, but a ‘Happy New Year’ from the top of the hill!

Christmas has come and gone and now we are on the boring bit when everyone seems to hibernate. Sadly, all pubs seem to suffer in January and we are no exception. Numbers seem to fall off the edge of a cliff. Just need to get through to February when the evenings seem to get a little longer and by the end of the month everything is back to normal.  Got a couple of gigs to tell you about: On the 2nd of February we have Bud Martin LIVE in the bar! Music starts just after 9pm.

And on the 2nd of March, Barry Paull will be bringing his ELVIS show to the top of the hill! Tickets are £5, with the proceeds going to St Margaret’s Hospice.

Our chef Liam has come up with some tasty new specials for our evening Menus, so why not pop along and see what its all about?

As I often have to remind you about all the independent pubs in the area: Use us or lose us!  TOOT TOOT !!!

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

40 THE VISITOR February 2018

The

Pub Pages

B EER & S KI TT L ES P. A. BAXTER

ANOTHER ROYAL WEDDING is coming soon, so we can all take a day off! Do us Brits need an excuse to celebrate things? Well probably, and, like a number of the populace, I was always keen to have a day off from the workplace when some members of the privileged class decided to tie the knot.

These days I am overcome with waves of ambivalence, being in two minds whether this sort of occasion is important or not, and that when I became selfemployed there were no days off for me anyway. However, now retired, a day is like any other, apart from the mind-wrenching decisions on how far we will travel and to what pub we go for lunch - it's rather a nice problem to have. (Oh, come on, give me credit; I did my bit for Queen and country for 48 years).

The great British pub gives us a great reason to celebrate, and Beer sommelier Jane Peyton is behind British Beer Day which falls on June 15th. This is not a random day plucked out from the depths of Jane’s mind, but the day on which the Magna Carta was signed all those years ago.

The

Forewarned is forearmed, so bear this in mind folks – programme it into your phone a week in advance and be ready to raise a glass with us on the day at 1215 p.m. (1215 being the date of the aforementioned signing of the Magna Carta – see what Jane has done?) I'll give you another reminder nearer the day.

Why not introduce another glass-raising event is what I say, this time inspired by a fellow games enthusiast Siv Sears, who achieved his ambition of playing the ancient game of cribbage in all the Old English shires i.e.

Somersetshire, Dorsetshire, Northamptonshire etc. After all, a man has to have an ambition and this is one I will fully endorse! So what's the date on which we should celebrate, and why? It’s 10th February and the reasoning behind this is that it's the birthday of Sir John Suckling, inventor of the great card game.

Sadly, he is not around to celebrate it, this being the 409th year since his birth. Now, knowing that there are cribbage leagues in many parts of the country and that the above date

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane Norton Sub Hamdon

Mark, Helen and staff welcome you to ‘The Nelson’

GOOD FOOD - GOOD BEER - GREAT ATMOSPHERE

Sunday 4th February: Nathan Jon Snell (3.30pm start) Quiz hosted by Simon Harris (8.15pm start, in aid of Norton Village Hall) Wednesday 7th February: The Wassail Theatre present: Reclaimed (Play) Wednesday 14th February: Valentines Menu & Singer Ross Kirk Sunday 18th February: Too Much Stuff (3.30pm start)

COURTYARD H BEER GARDEN AT REAR AMPLE PARKING OPEN ALL DAY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.biz

this year falls on a Saturday (a day that is unlikely to have league games I would think) I see good reason to get together for fun games with your fellow league players, friends and family alike whether it be in the home or the pub - although it should really be the latter! Siv Sears is actively promoting the game to all and sundry and he claims that two well-known media people are keen players - Steve Lamacq and Victoria Coren-Mitchell are wishing to join in the celebration.

Interestingly, it would appear that whilst Sir John was a keen devotee of all things card-related and ‘sat in bed all morning with a pack of cards before him, studying the subtleties of his favourite games’. He was also the 'best bowler in England'. Some of the wording makes me wonder if we are talking cricket or are we talking skittles, as I have come across the term 'bowling' in English skittles in my research on more than one occasion. He was also a gambler as well as an exceptional card player, and sad to say, a cheat as well, sending marked packs of cards to the aristocratic houses of England and then fleecing his contemporaries, winning around £20,000 in his lifetime, which equates to around £4,000,000 in today’s money. What a nice chap.

He was, apparently, a poet of some renown so, cheat or not, if he had stuck with that talent we would have been robbed of a game which most of us have played at least at once in our lives.

Whilst we are on the subject of 'the old times’ I stumbled upon the fact that the great composer Mozart was keen on the game of skittles. In fact it is claimed, but never proven, that he was inspired to compose several

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pieces whilst in the midst of games, including ‘Kegelstad’ the German word that translates as ‘playground for skittles’, clearly what we would now call an alley.

Contemporary illustrations of Mozart having a game with his friends clearly show him to be enjoying this in the garden, and claiming that his wife was keen on the game, even writing to his father to tell him the fact.

Anyway, it was during games that a dozen pieces for two French horns allegedly came into his mind. I soon found the pieces on the Internet, although I can't see any connection to the game in the way the pieces unfold. Not being a major fan of most classical music, I did manage to get through about half a dozen of the compositions before surrendering. Well done Wolfgang; anyway.

Still with the ‘old days’ the fictional ‘Downton Abbey’ series featured what we tend to call 'table skittles' although I missed the particular episode.

Apparently the characters were playing it before dinner one night.

Doubtless they will all be repeated but I shan't be trawling through those unless someone out there in Visitorland gives me a hint where I can see it on iPlayer.

A bit more modern, but still well over 50 years ago, The Beatles starred in their feature film ‘Help’(although it was going to be called ‘Eight Arms to Hold You’ which is a bit of a cumbersome title). There is a scene where Ringo is in a pub and has a go on said game, and manages to smash someone's glass of beer as he swings the ball on the chain!

Much more up to date was a piece of video I found on YouTube of the game being played in Croatia.

However, this time the pins, instead of being about 3 inches tall, were more like 15 inches and the ball hung from a gallows-type affair the height of a fair-sized room! The title was not really translated by technology available on the internet, other than that it was called ‘small bowl’. Interestingly, sometimes the pins were reset after every

throw, and it also attracted a fairsized audience. Another video show, another version of the game with a semi-automatic method of pin-resetting!

All this is proof to me that multiple versions of the Great Game transcend all classes of people, from the rich to the classical composers, to places around the world and to the pop stars. The question is, will it survive for a few hundred years more? I say yes; providing there are the pubs and clubs in which to play, and the fact that history has given us the great games and pastimes along with the venues in which to play, is something worth celebrating in itself. Enjoy!

P.A.Baxter. skittlealley@hotmail.com

Lease available for The Alhampton Inn, Alhampton near Castle Cary

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has been instructed to sell the leasehold of The Alhampton Inn in Alhampton.

The village of Alhampton is situated in Somerset between Castle Cary and Shepton Mallett, near The Royal Bath & West Showground and the Glastonbury Festival site.

Situated in one of the best areas of Somerset and offering real ales, locally sourced food and open fires, the pub is a real gem with huge potential. Somerset is home to some outstanding country pubs with exceptionally strong trade from local communities and The Alhampton Inn offers a chance for an operator to tap into this lucrative market, in addition to opportunities to expand offerings to include onsite camping and ‘glamping.’ The inn provides a significant lifestyle opportunity for a new operator; it has potential to provide comfortable owner’s accommodation.

James Ribbons, Business Agent at Christie & Co's Bristol office comments; "We are really pleased to be offering the lease of The Alhampton Inn to the market. This is a great opportunity for a new leaseholder to take on this privately leased, free of tie pub on excellent terms. I expect to see a lot of interest from a range of would be operators.”

The leasehold of the Alhampton Inn is available for £90,000.

The Alhampton Inn.

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

Dinnington, Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397

THE VISITOR February 2018 41

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New lease available for The Mendip Inn, Oakhill

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has been instructed to sell the leasehold of The Mendip Inn in the v illa g e of Oa khill nea r t he Mendip Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which attracts tourists throughout the year.

The popular Somerset pub was completely renovated in 2012 and includes an extensive bar and dining area, outdoor seating and a beer garden with 130 covers altogether. The Mendip Inn holds an outstanding reputation for good food, well known for its Sunday lunches, drawing in trade from the surrounding villages and towns.

This presents the perfect opportunity for a new operator to increase the food and drink trade further and to introduce four en suite letting rooms upstairs by modifying the existing layout. There is also planning permission for six semi permanent structures to be set up in the rear garden as additional accommodation for guests which would be ideal

during peak summer and festival times.

Having owned the pub since 2011, the current owner is now looking to focus on a new business venture.

James Ribbons, Business Agent in Christie & Co's Bristol office who is handling the sale comments; "We are thrilled to be looking for a new leaseholder at The Mendip Inn, a well established business with potential for further growth which we expect will attract a lot of attention from individual and group operators.”

Christie & Co is marketing the Mendip Inn off a guide price of £65,000. Terms of the new lease are negotiable.

The Mendip Inn, Oakhill.

Last year Vinny’s Valentine’s Day was unsuccessful, this year he’s hoping for better luck!

42 THE VISITOR February 2018

IN MUDFORD ... Smoked Haddock on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, topped with a cheese sauce, is a delicious choice from the menu at The Half Moon Inn ... you can be sure of a perfectly kept pint at The Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil to accompany their tasty new specials on the evening menu ... if you’re planning on visiting Somerset The Crown and Victoria Inn at Tintinhull offers spacious well-equipped accommodation, how about treating your Valentine to a special night away ... and the large skittle alley at The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon can be used for a variety of celebrations including Christenings and birthdays.

Diving off to Dinnington ... where well kept real ales are always available at The Dinnington Docks ... Sunday Lunch is always popular at The Lord Poulett, Hinton St. George ... if you want to celebrate a birthday a little differently this year, try a Murder Mystery Dinner Party with friends at The Firehouse, Curry Rivel ... planning on popping the question on February 14th? The Old Pound Inn at Aller is offering 3-courses and your first drink for just £25 per person on Valentine’s Day - it is also a perfect venue for a wedding reception ... always a warm welcome at The Quarry Inn, Keinton Mandeville ... you can book for dinner at The Pilgrims, Lovington for Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays ... and you’ll find a selection of quality wines at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague.

Galloping on to Galhampton where a warm welcome awaits at The Orchard Inn ... the Morris Men were at The Catash Inn, for the North Cadbury Wassail recently and a good time was had by all ... when the weather is cold enjoy a pint by the welcoming log fire at The Camelot Pub, South Cadbury ... dogs and muddy boots welcome at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham ... and finally ... if the winter is getting you down and you fancy a short break The Grange at Oborne has a special February offer - three nights accommodation for the price of two, phone for details on 01935 813463.

They Say

That when Judy Greenwell of Yeovil 'branches off' to Gillingham with her friend Jenny Abrahamson, life can become a real 'drag'.

That Jan (Alway) of Martins Stores, Castle Cary, has been called a few nice things in her time, but ‘Jam’ has never been on of them.

That Mike ‘I'm 65 this year’ Pollard of Yeovil, hasn't got the keys to the door yet.

That with the new electric door, John Brittain of Castle Cary will not need the assistance of his wife to get the car out of the garage.

That customers of The George Hotel in Crewkerne are hoping that Santa delivered some change with the presents on Christmas Day.

That Tony ‘Iron Man’ White of Pittards, Yeovil, is still breaking records - the last one being Des O’Connor’s ‘Dick-A- Dum-Dum’. It was an accident he said!

That a certain Grandpa of Abbotsbury, delights in celebrating his birthday once in a blue moon.

That Fairview Garage on Sherborne Causeway, Shaftesbury is now repairing ironing boards and cars.

That the ever popular and happy Steve Atwell, medal winning market trader of Yeovil, has a job keeping his weight down with his stall being sited next to the hot dog stand. But never mind, he can always add a pickle or two, with 500 jars available at his disposal. Well done, Wilfred Pickles.

That Mr Sid Hurrell likes his sandwiches very hot at his local hostelry in Castle Cary.

That in Norwich, the question on everyones lips since young Thomas Feakins celebrated his ninth birthday is ‘Where’s Nathan?’

That Mr. Tony Price of Ansford, disappointed the local squirrel community before the festive season got fully underway last year by removing his carefully installed, but upsettingly vandalised, Christmas lighting arrangement.

That there is no truth in the rumour that the recently completed dining room in North Cadbury, will soon be open to non-residents.

The tables are turning in Wincanton as record shop survives in the High Street

In a world where music is mainly downloaded onto a computer or listened to on the Internet, it is refreshing to see a resurgence of the vinyl record. While many people embraced the efficiency of digital music technology, there was one record fan that never gave up on the original, glossy grooved stuff: Brett.

Brett is a local chap who decided to settle in the area after living in London for a few years. He has a real passion for vinyl records and opened a great little shop in Wincanton’s Applegarth Emporium. He sells an enormous selection of records from all different genres of music, or as he succinctly puts it ‘everything from Abba to Gabber’ (hardcore techno).

This includes folk music such as Simon and Garfunkel, Susan Vega and the entire collection of Joni Mitchell albums- a veritable thesaurus of human emotion.

It also includes classic rock such as Queen and Pink Floyd, Jazz and Blues such as the album ‘Si C’est Bon’ by one of the most influential Jazz singers and trumpeters

Louis Armstrong. It also includes pop rock such as the beautiful, melancholic Kate Bush, country music such as Johnny Cash and pop music such Michael Jackson and as Rubber Soul-an album that captures the real skill and craftsmanship of one of Britain’s most iconic pop groups, The Beatles.

However he is also looking to expand his selection of alternative records. This currently includes reggae, dubstep and early psychedelia such the album ‘I Spider’ by British rock band Web and ‘ I see you’ by International group Gong. It also includes 1970s ‘Prog Rock’ such as the album ‘Lay Back and Enjoy It’ by Juicy Lucy. “I like anything that’s a little bit odd”, he told me.

‘The other day I came across an album I didn’t even know existed! Lyon’s Maid ‘hits of the week’. Now who’d have t ho u g ht t h a t s o m e t h i n g a s obscure as a compilation of hits from the charts that was sponsored by a 1920s ice cream company would have been released on vinyl?” In the near future he would also like to start selling modern vinyl records released by current artists such as pop sensation Adele and the heavenly London Grammar.

Brett is always willing to demonstrate an album on his record player as a ‘try before you buy’ service. For him, vinyl recordings are the ultimate! ‘It may be convenient to just click the ‘play’ button on Youtube but it’s soulless.

As Rock legend Alice Cooper said Kids these days are tired of buying air. I really relish the whole tactile experience of putting

on a record. It’s a bit of a fag but there’s something pleasurable about the ritual of removing the album from its sleeve, selecting the track and gently positioning the ‘control arm’ to make contact with the stylus and the sound groove.’

Moreover, it is not just the process of putting on a record that appeals to Brett, he is also enamoured by the artwork on some of the album covers. ‘I mean just look at that’ he exclaims, pointing to the stunning psychedelic artwork on Joni Mitchell’s 1968 album Song to a Seagull. ‘A CD or even less so, a download just doesn’t have the same visual impact’. Because of their size, album covers were used as an almost alternative canvas for fine artists such as Peter Blake and his iconic portrayal of The Beatles on the Sergeant Pepper’s album.

Brett has noticed that some people are buying records for decoration. He also added that he gets customers that don’t actually own a record player but will say ‘I’m goin g to buy, I don’t know, let’s say The Beatles Revolver album as it’ll look nice on my wall!’

And then there’s that sound! A CD may be more disposable but the sound is too sanitised. And now for the technical bit! By definition all digital music is compacted and converted into a binary format that is little more than 10-15% of the original recording. It’s really a trick upon the senses. Vinyl, if well looked after really shows up the quality of a streamed MP3!

‘It’s so much richer!’ Brett exclaimed. While we were chatting, he put on Nina

Simone’s spine chilling album ‘I Put a Spell On You’.

What better way to vinyl’s integrity! ‘This makes me melt’, he said, drifting off into a blissful sigh. ‘It has real depth and is almost organic in its purity of sound. Ok there’s the odd hiss and crackle, particularly with older records, but it’s all part of the charm!’ The simple reason is that it is all based on analogue recording.

I.e. it is a true and faithful representation of the original sound.

In addition to vinyl records, Brett sells an array of audio equipment and with a degree in Sound Engineering from Salisbury College he even does a bit of recording himself. His collection includes retro/vintage and ‘valve amplifers’ from the 1970s and 80s such as those classic models made by Quad and Audio Innovations. It also includes HiFi gear such as powerful speakers, 80s tape decks by international brand Nakamichi and record players, from the affordable to the more exclusive brands such as Linn Sondeck.

Moving onto to his studio gear! This includes synthesisers, monitors, mixers and the highly sought after ‘theremin’, a haunting sounding instrument that is operated without physical contact and made popular by British comedian Bill Bailey.

To compliment his collection he also sells retro furniture such as a little carved oak writing desk, a stylish chest of drawers, and collectibles such as musical instruments, industrial lighting and ‘militaria’.

A l i ce Gl o v er.

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MOTOR ING

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I START OFF this month with the available riding events and club nights for February.

Although winter is here there is still some activity in which to take part and enjoy. The Somerset Section start on the 1st with their AGM and photo display at Cossington. On the 18th will be Neil's Run from Fivehead and this is followed on the 23rd by the Annual Dinner and Awards Presentation. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section will have their club night at East Stour on the 12th. The Dorset Section have the Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 7th followed by their club night on the 14th when they have a guest speaker. On the 24th they return to West Stour for the Breakfast Meet. For more details ring 01935 872528.

All local Sections of the V.M.C.C. together with the other Classic Motorcycle Clubs and all the one-make clubs will be represented at the Bristol Classic Bike Show on the 3rd and 4th February, held as usual at the Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet. With over a thousand machines on display it is the biggest event of its kind in the South West of England.

There will be a big autojumble and an auction of machines so there will be plenty to see and do. The social aspect of these shows is to me of more importance than the display machines. Give it a try and you will not be disappointed. I will be predominately on the main VMCC stand so stop by and have a chat.

My photograph this month is of great interest to me because it depicts a 'Special'. I have written

Ariel four cylinder engine and gearbox unit squeezed into a 1950's Norton frame and cycle parts.

before about machines built by individuals using pieces from differing manufacturers and this is an excellent example of the motorcycle builders art. It shows an Ariel four cylinder engine and gearbox unit squeezed into a 1950's Norton frame and cycle parts. The engine unit is too large for the frame and it takes a great deal of skill and ingenuity to shoehorn the unit into a space not designed to accept it. The making of new engine plates and various brackets to assemble the whole has been done with a great deal of thought and shows the expertise of the builder. Many 'Specials' might perform well but just do not look right. This machine looks exactly right and could have been factory made.

Now the owner can enjoy the power of the larger engine with the superb handling of the Norton featherbed frame. I am sure he will enjoy that experience for

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many years and miles to come.

You may have seen or heard of the latest Press Release from the Department of Transport. It concerns the concession that vehicles over 40 years of age will be exempt from the need of an MOT certificate. It all starts on the 20th May. The details are too lengthy to expand upon here but this will apply to all classes of vehicles. The first criteria is that the vehicle must be 40 years old and not have been substantially changed. The document goes into explanations as to what would constitute a substantial change.

On your Ford Escort to change the engine from a 1300cc to a 1600cc of the same type then this will not be considered a substantial change. On the other hand if you substitute the Ford engine for one from a twelve cylinder Jaguar then that will certainly be looked upon as a substantial change. Similarly, if you change the front or rear axle that will be substantial.

These changes will affect everyone as you next tax your vehicle. After the start date, when you apply online to tax your vehicle, you will have to tick a box to confirm that your vehicle comes within the definition of a Historic Vehicle. Failure to do this could result in having to pay the VED and sorting out the paperwork afterwards with the DVLA is a problem I would not wish to face. Take heed of this warning and make sure you get this right, as I can see hassle ahead if things do go wrong.

Interestingly these new rules will not apply to vehicles issued with a 'Q' prefix, a kit-car (or motorcycle) assembled from components, a reconstructed vehicle and a kit converted vehicle. If, however, any of these vehicles have already been taxed as a Historic Vehicle and the modifications have not been done during the previous 30 years then they can be considered as a Historic Vehicle. How you prove

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MOTOR ING

when the modifications were carried out has not been determined.

The government always likes to put in exemptions and complications just to muddy the waters. Why not keep it simple and exempt all vehicles over 40 years old? Now that is simple and I can understand it.

Rod Hann.

Good Turn Out for New Year’s Day Classic Car Run in Sturminster Newton

Despite a rainy start to the day, there was a good turn out for the 23rd annual New Year’s Day Classic Car Run at Sturminster Newton. Sponsored by Harts of Stur, there were plenty of vintage and classic cars and motorcycles on display with crowds gathering in the town car park to witness cars of all ages, shapes and sizes.

An immaculate Austin Seven owned by Richard & Ginny Collings of Trigon nr Wareham, Dorset, was the winner of the ‘Car the judge would most like to take home’ award.

To see a video of the vehicles leaving the car park visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=zU8OYj1s3WI.

Defender lives on: Land Rover launches V8 edition to celebrate 70th anniversary

Land Rover recently announced a limited-edition high-performance version of the iconic Defender, with up to 150 V8-powered examples reengineered to celebrate the Land Rover marque’s 70th anniversary in 2018.

The Defender Works V8 pays homage to the early high-powered engines in both the Series III Stage 1 V8 from 1979 and subsequent Defenders including the 50th Anniversary Edition, which are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors today.

Defender Works V8 is the most powerful and fastest version that

Richard & Ginny Collings of Trigon nr Wareham, Dorset, in their Austin Seven which won ‘the car the judge would most like to take home’ award at Sturminster Newton Classic Car Run on New Year’s Day 2018.

Photo courtesy of Graham Cox L.M.P.A.

Land Rover has ever created.

The 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V8 powertrain produces 405PS and 515 Nm of torque (the standard Defender delivered 122PS and 360 Nm). The Defender Works V8 will accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds, while top speed is increased to 106mph.

Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director, said: “It’s fitting that we’ve been able to release the full potential of the iconic Defender, whose much-loved shape remains synonymous with Land Rover, 70 years since it was seen in public for the first time.

“The idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull. We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients

purchasing these collector’s edition Defenders.”

The V8 powertrain will be fitted to 150 specially-selected and reengineered Defenders for the Anniversary Edition, complemented by an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission with sport mode, uprated brakes and handling kit (springs, dampers and anti-roll bars), plus exclusive 18-inch diamond-turned Sawtooth alloy wheels and 265/65 R18 all-terrain tyres.

Eight standard body colours include two satin finishes – contrasting with a Santorini Black roof, wheel arches and front grille – finished with machined aluminium door handles, fuel filler cap and Defender bonnet lettering.

A comprehensive lighting upgrade includes bi-LED headlamps.

Full Windsor Leather interior trim covers the dashboard, door panels, headlining and Recaro sports seats. Land Rover Classic’s own Classic Infotainment System is also fitted. Both 90 and 110 wheelbase Defender Works V8 derivatives will be available to purchase direct from Land Rover Classic, with prices starting from £150,000 for a 90 in the UK. A select number of highperformance upgrades inspired by Defender Works V8 will also be available to purchase soon from Land Rover Classic, including power upgrades for the TDCi diesel engine, fast-road suspension and braking kits.

Caravan Storage

THE VISITOR February 2018 45

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

Another successful North Dorset Business Day

North Dorset District Council's Economic Development team host an annual event for local businesses every November.

The 2017 event saw over 100 businesses interact, discuss opportunities and share best practice. North Dorset MP Simon Hoare was in attendance, alongside members of the District Council.

Cllr Sherry Jespersen – Portfolio Holder for Community and Regeneration – said: “recent research has shown that businesses in rural areas are more likely to be innovative and more likely to return a profit.

“We need to get the message out that North Dorset is a really good place to do business.”

Full house for Chamber update with Somerset County Council

Devolution, road improvements and digital connectivity were among the key topics discussed at Somerset Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast briefing with Somerset County Council on Tuesday 16 January.

At Somerset Chamber breakfast

event with Somerset County Council, 60 business people gathered at Taunton Racecourse for the Chamber’s first event of the year, where Cllr. David Hall, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources and Economic Development, provided an update on the Council’s plans and priorities for 2018.

Cllr. Hall opened his presentation by highlighting that the County Council continues to recognise the importance of working with and supporting business where they can, so he was delighted to have been given the opportunity to speak to Chamber members again this year.

He outlined the topic of devolution and the discussions that the Council has had with government regarding the challenges of electing a metro mayor to cover an area as broad and diverse as the South West, with confirmation now received that a metro mayor is no longer a requirement. He said that 17 local authorities across the South West have signed up to a joint committee, which is the first stage on the path to devolution, with the topics of

rural productivity, digital connectivity and transport, housing, innovation and skills being at the core of the devolution offering.

On the subject of road improvements, he emphasised that progress is being made on developing the second key strategic route into the South West, with a consultation on the proposed changes to the A358 about to be launched and positive discussions taking place regarding the proposed tunnel and bypass at Stonehenge.

On digital connectivity, he stated that phase two of Connecting Devon and Somerset, which is now underway, will deliver 95% superfast broadband across the county. The Council is currently trying to set up a discussion with Matt Hancock, the new Culture Secretary, to get clarity on what is planned in terms of delivering 100% superfast broadband, as well as what is going to happen about the mobile network, which is still proving challenging for many in Somerset.

As Carillion Telent is a prime contractor for Gigaclear, which is responsible for the second phase of the Connecting Devon and Somerset programme, Cllr. Hall confirmed that they are monitoring the situation carefully. However, he did say that Gigaclear had confirmed they have no financial exposure and they have contingency plans for alternative delivery if there is a major issue.

Other topics referenced by Cllr.

David Hall during his presentation included the proposed merger of West Somerset and Taunton Deane district councils, the development of the Somerset Energy Innovation Centre, the iAero project, and

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46 THE VISITOR February 2018

council budget constraints.

Questions raised by the attendees included issues around business rates, road and rail improvements, unitary authority and inward investment support.

Dale Edwards, Chief Executive of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, then spoke to delegates about the continuing growth of the Chamber, including through the new Somerset Education Business Partnership – a collaborative programme with Somerset Chamber and Somerset County Council, which is funded by the Hinkley Point C Community Impact Mitigation Fund. He also referenced the upcoming Heathrow Business Summit in March, which will give local businesses a chance to understand the opportunities that are available and meet some of the Tier 1 suppliers to the project.

Bradfords Group, a Patron of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, was the event sponsor for the breakfast briefing. Following the event, Director Paul Carlisle commented, “Today’s breakfast event with Somerset County Council was enjoyable and informative, with the presentation

by David Hall being a valuable source of information. Combined with the opportunity to communicate with other likeminded Somerset businesses, this was undoubtedly a worthwhile event to attend and support.

Bradfords has been trading in Somerset since 1770 and we are proud of our roots, so we are happy and privileged to be a Patron of Somerset Chamber and were pleased to sponsor this event.”

Cllr. Clare Paul from Somerset County Council added, “The event was hugely successful with a great turn out, enormously rewarding for all who attended and we have already placed correspondence to address some of the questions raised. The networking time was very successful where further introductions were brokered. Well done and thank you to Dale and the Chamber team.”

Somerset Chamber of Commerce is one of only five accredited Chambers in the South West and 52 in the whole of the UK. It works closely with the British Chambers of Commerce to make sure Somerset businesses stay well connected at both a local and national level, and that the voices of the Somerset business community are heard at all levels of government.

the end bit...

BACK IN DECEMBER it was announced that an average 3.4% rail fare increase would come into effect on 2nd January, so it was not surprising that the Western Daily Press made a meal of the story in its 3rd January issue.

With news of ‘growing criticism and protests’ at ‘the biggest hike in five years’, it reported that ‘campaigners took to station entrances to protest’ and quoted a Bristol MP claiming that ‘privatisation of railways doesn’t work as the franchises create natural monopolies which operate

without competition’. What the report omitted to mention is that the rise is less than the Retail Prices Index inflation rate of 3.6% last July (on which the annual fare increase is usually based) and the October RPI of 4%, that the increase is regulated by the Government, and that renationalisation of railways would also create a natural monopoly which would operate without competition. So the meal turned out to be an unbalanced diet with insufficient substance.

Two days later, in the 5th January issue, the Western Daily Press carried a two-page appeal for readers to buy the paper on subscription (payable by direct debit, in advance) and save 40% on the cover price for the first 13 weeks and 20% thereafter. Pay up and you’ll be sent prepaid vouchers to give to your newsagent in exchange for your newspapers. Tucked away near the end of a ‘Message from Editor Gavin Thompson’ he wrote that

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.

Solution to January

Sudoku

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 32

1. Dire Straits 2. Blondie 3. Van Morrison 4. Billy Paul 5. Shania Twain 6. Australia 7. Hollies 8. 'How Long' - Ace 9. Paul Weller 10. The Beatles (White Album)

‘we have, as you will have noticed, this week increased our Monday to Friday cover price by 5p. Our Saturday paper will go up later in the year too’. What this retrospective announcement of the 5p rise failed to mention is that the increase from 80p to 85p equates to 6.25%, almost double the size of the rail fare rise. If this price hike was really necessary, the paper must be banking on a substantial increase in sales if it can afford to sell it to subscribers for 13 weeks at just a penny more than the price it was charging in 2012. And who, I wonder, is bearing the costs of the promotion. Will prepaid copies continue to earn my newsagent his mark-up as a percentage of 85p or the discounted 51p?

The Western Daily Press is part of the Trinity Mirror publishing empire. The 16th December issue of the paper reported Trinity’s fourth quarter trading update which stated that ‘like-for-like revenue was expected to fall by 9%’. Despite improving trends in digital publishing revenues, which are expected to grow by 20% in this period, ‘this was offset by declines in print advertising and circulation revenue of 21% and 7% respectively’.

I was intrigued by a half-page

ANSWERS TO CLASSICAL MUSIC QUIZ

advertisement in the 14th December issue of the Western Gazette, anot her of Trinity Mirror’s titles. ‘Even more property and lifestyle to inspire’ it claimed in big bold capitals, is in the paper’s ‘Property and Living supplement out every Thursday’, alongside a photo of an attractive young lady holding the said supplement. Intrigued because that week’s Gazette didn’t include the supplement, nor did the issues of 21st and 28th December and 4th January.

Understandably so, because few estate agents can see any value in advertising properties over the festive period, but it makes a mockery of the Gazette’s ‘every Thursday’ claim.

Mention of properties reminds me that a reader in Ilminster kindly sent me a cutting from Pulman’s, a freebie that I seldom see these days. In it the opening sentence of an article in its ‘property view’ section stated: ‘With the long winter evenings drawing out and the warmer weather on its way, now is the time of year people start to consider moving house.’

I can’t argue with the sentiment – but it seems highly inappropriate to include it in the 21st November issue of the paper. Someone in the newsroom has clearly got their seasons thoroughly confused.

Chronicler.

on page 35

1. Felix 2. 1973 3. 32 4. 88 5. Italian 6. Violinist 7. Rossini 8. Concerto 9. Violin 10. B

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THE VISITOR February 2018 47

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM

Logs

Barn Stored Seasoned

HARDWOOD LOGS

 Seasoned Hard & Softwood Logs  Kindling – Briquettes – Coal  Various Load / Log Sizes

Check our website for COMPETITIVE PRICES ... FREE DELIVERY

Tel: 01458 251529 • Mobile: 07789 204232

Full details on our website: www.msmfirewood.co.uk

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

Small and Large Loads Tel: 07973 871708 Evenings: 01935 825506

Your calling card reaching 60,000 readers  01963 351256 ... to advertise HERE

March issue deadline: Friday 9th February • 01963 351256

Domestic Appliances

Pe

PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs

COVERING THE SOUTH LOCALLY

Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs

Ø Repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OAP discounts

TELEPHONE: 01935 609300 / 01747 470212 / 01460 220660 / 01458 298212 For your nearest technician

Taylors Domestic

Appliances Ltd. Sales & Repairs for Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble Driers etc.

Ridge View, Penmore Road Sandford Orcas DT9 4SE

Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

01963 220366

Email: taylorsdomesticappliances@gmail.com Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

Roofing

Transport & Storage

The key to all your storage needs!

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

• Open 7 Days a Week • 20 Years Established Family Business

• Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service

• Removals To and From Storage • Self Store with Easy Access

• Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff

Say you saw it in The Visitor

48 THE VISITOR February 2018

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? CALL  Computers-R-Us on 00000 000000

PROMOTE your BUSINESS HERE ...  01963 351256

For all your roofing requirements

Fully Insured Storage at Highly Competitive Rates Call us today for a quote!

High Street, Sparkford, nr. Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692

Computer Repairs

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

01963 33528 / 07885 723915 Email: allancarey541@hotmail.com

Roofing

Bourton Roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I M AT ES

 01747 840064

... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk

DEADLINE for March Issue is Friday 9th February

Locksmith

ANYTIME LOCKS

24-Hour Locksmith Key Cutting and Boarding Up

MOBILE 07709 433922 PHONE 01963 359516

PHONE - a - FIRM

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴

Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476 The Visitor can be read online … www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

H Picture Framing H Restoration H Large Selection of Prints and Paintings H Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel: 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

Taxis

Private Sue Hire

Mob: 07711 572038

www.taxiatcastlecarystation.co.uk

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

Regular advertising brings results

ADVERTISE in FULL COLOUR this space could be yours for

£40.46 inc. VAT

Oven Cleaning Mister Oven Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Covering Somerset and Dorset

AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Eco-Friendly Materials Used Experienced + Fully Insured Friendly Staff

Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145 www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk

Fuel Storage Tanks

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

Plumbing & Heating

Caricatures for Special Gifts

(for 3cms x 2 column)

Tel: 01963 351256 – to book your space

Fire & Security Alarms

THE VISITOR February 2018 49

Classified Ads

Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP. 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. 376 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BP – to arrive by Friday 9th February .

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.

NAME .....................................................................................................................................................................

ADDRESS .............................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................................................................

Personal

Wanted

Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5

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

Meeting Place

GEnUInE HOnEST GUy, looking to meet males/females for socialising/ nights out. Text 07929 066821.

Services

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEn RUBBISH CLEARED, old sheds / outbuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

VIBRATIOnAL THERAPIST, colour, crystals, flower essences, spiritual coaching with counselling skills, oracle card readings with guidance. Tel Marie: 07967 386715.

PROFESSIOnAL MEMOIR Writer Mandy Bloom has availability for new commissions this spring. Tell me your story and I will write your book. www.mandybloom.co.uk or telephone 01458 223251 for an information pack.

EXPERIEnCED COnSIDERATE Carer / Companion / Cook / Driver. Call Elizabeth on 07895 727127. Email address: drivingmisslizzy@gmail.com. Excellent references and (DBS/police checked).

PROOFREADInG, EDITInG, passing for press, design, typing. Thirty years’ experience. Friendly service. Tel: 01935 706397, terryclews@hotmail.co.uk.

DEADLINE for March Issue is Friday 9th February

DAVE BUyS ALL TyPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables.

Daves Tools - Tel: 01935 428975 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.

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.

C A R B U R E T T O R S , SUPERCHARGERS, AUTOJUMBLE, BSF taps and dies, and engineering tools wanted. Tel: 01747 850474.

Storage

STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

Catering / Mobile Bars

HARRy’S MOBILE BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

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.

Allotments

ALLOTMEnTS AVAILABLE to rent between Barton St David and Baltonsborough. Great opportunity to grow your own food, get fit and meet new people. Beautiful soil and water on site.

Tel: 01458 850734.

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH

Any size, any condition, make or model We collect in any area H Registered Firearms Dealer

Tel: 07970 742471

50 THE VISITOR February 2018

Across:

1. Flooring for A.R.P. etc.? [6] 4. Sing about a runny nose?

Telling off. [8] 9. Returning part of a barrel Lorentz found a groundsman’s implement. [6] 10. Insect to run away secretly with a mammal. [8] 11. Sunlit change an affront. [6] 12. Potter’s art would scar mice around! [8] 14. Focus cable assortment into winning card. [3,2,5] 18. Where are directors? On Broad to the moors? [10] 22. Slant she arranged is smaller. [4-4] 23. Talk a little, including matter with pH above 7. [6] 24. Isn’t in the main to assert.

[8] 25. Small car with mother at lowest points. [6] 26. Chant about endless courage searching. [8] 27. Article 100, look around psychic meeting. [6]

revered image. [6] 8. Comfort under former king for thick lubricant. [6] 13. Share aluminium position.

[10] 15. Aldi rate confused as strong adhesive. [8] 16. Put party above country for a gift. [8] 17. When sea-marauder comes to supply air. [8] 19. Fastens tightly 150 units of current. [6] 20. So, Mike is arranged as an ice-dweller. [6] 21. Best at organising, hiding fixed part of generator. [6]

Solution to Crossword 375

Down:

1. Can laird be confused with church official? [8] 2. Biblical judge, quiet in red, took pleasure. [8] 3. Yes, fleet looking to port.

[4,4] 5. Carry tune B in Kent. [10] 6. Small, rise lay about slack.

[6] 7. Some frantic on ice like a

The Winner of our January Crossword

Was Pat & Robin Bowers of North Cadbury, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Andrew Barclay Butchers, Wincanton.