The Visitor Magazine Issue 370 September 2014

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

Issue 370 September 2014

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Special Offers available in store throughout September See our complete range in store ... or shop online with us at

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Zandra Rhodes 9 – 11 Princes Street, YEOVIL, BA20 1EN

Tel: 01935 428791 • www.ceresfoods.com

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Shirley Allum Fashions

Shaftesbury on Tuesday 9th September from noon to promote her vibrant handbag collection

In Passing ...

T

HE BLOSSOM-LADEN boughs of May and June were promising a bumper apple harvest this autumn. England is probably the best place in the world for growing apples, for the interaction of climate and soil conditions has resulted in countless regional varieties of eating, cooking and cider apples down the centuries – well over a hundred in Visitorland alone. Yet most are impossible to find on the supermarket shelves and some have disappeared entirely in the last 100 years. The world’s most widely grown apple is, I’m told, Golden Delicious, its nondescript flavour and waxy yellow skin belying its name.

Long gone are the days when you could buy a sharp, tangy Tom Putt for your apple pie or a sweet, juicy Beauty of Bath to enjoy after a meal. Or a Lambrook Pippin, or a Crimson King, or a Stembridge Jersey.

Nowadays you have to grow them yourself or buy them direct from an orchard.

Thankfully some orchards survive still in Visitorland and most of this year’s crop of eating apples will be picked this month before the cider apple harvest gets into full swing in early October.

To try some of the tasty old varieties, visit one of the local orchards where fruit and single-variety juices can be bought – North Perrott Fruit Farm near Crewkerne, perhaps, or West Bradley Orchard near Glastonbury. Or visit a local cider mill and celebrate with a glass or two of farmhouse cider, fermented in the traditional way but often made nowadays from single named apple varieties. It wasn’t in bygone days.

The intrepid traveller Celia Fiennes recorded in 1696 that ‘in most parts of Somersetshire it is very fruitful for orchards . . . but they are not curious in planting the best sorte of fruite, which is a great pitty; they are likewise as careless when they make cider, they press all sorts of apples together . . .’

Even so, cider’s healthy attributes were recognised in 1664 by John Evelyn who noted that it ‘excites and cleanses the stomach, strengthens the digestion and

infallibly frees the kidney and bladder from breeding the gravel stone . . .’ and by John Worlidge in 1676 who wrote that ‘constant use of this liquor . . . hath been found by long experience to avail much to health and long life, preserving the drinkers of it in their full strength and vigour even to very old age.’

In his young age Laurie Lee first experienced this delicious golden liquid, as he described in ‘Cider with Rosie’. ‘The jar lay on the grass like an unexploded bomb.

We lifted it up, unscrewed the stopper and smelt the whiff of fermented apples. I held the jar to my mouth and rolled my eyes sideways, like a beast at the waterhole. I took a deep breath . . . Never to be forgotten, that first long secret drink of golden fire, juice of those valleys and of that time, wine of wild orchards, of russet summer, of plump red apples . . .’

NN.

Advertising Deadlines

October Edition published Thursday 25th September Deadline Monday 15th September Wells Frome • Shepton Mallet Glastonbury Bruton Street Castle Mere Cary Somerton Wincanton Gillingham Langport Ilchester Shaftesbury Martock Marnhull Sherborne Stalbridge • Ilminster Stur. Newton YEOVIL Crewkerne

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PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG

Ltd.

Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Fax: (01963) 350552 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag

Proprietor, Accounts & Subscriptions Helen Dunion Production Manager Jeff Farrow Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock Printed by The Blackmore Press © The Visitor Ltd. 2014

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

CONTENTS

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to celebrity status.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 48 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING including HOBBIES & PASTIMES - 10 ARTS - 15 BUSINESS - 16 CROSSWORD - 50 CYCLE BABBLE - 9 GARDENING - 44 HAM HILL - 28 HOBBIES & PASTIMES including ANTIQUES - 10 HOUSE & HOME - 34 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 8 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 26 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING At Your Service - 41 MUSIC for the MONTH - 8 NOTICE BOARD - 8 PAPERCHASE - 47 PHONE-A-FIRM - 48 PUBS - 30 TASTES from the WEST COUNTRY - 17 THEY SAY - 32 WEDDINGS - 19 WE HEAR - 6 WINE & DINE - 16 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR September 2014 3

ANDREW BARCLAY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BUTCHERS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 • Fax: 01963 31249

OUR MEAT IS NATURALLY REARED AND SOURCED FROM THE WEST COUNTRY ...

BEEF from Local Farms LAMB from Sam Stables at Charlton Musgrove FREE RANGE PORK from Somerset FREE RANGE CHICKEN & DUCK from Creedy Carver

Free Range BONE-IN PORK CHOPS BUY THREE ...

GET ONE FREE

Chicken Breasts

SAM’S LAMB SHOULDERS £5.99 per kg

BUY THREE ...

GET ONE FREE

Small Bone In

NEW SEASON’S LAMB ... from Sam Stables, Charlton Musgrove

£65 Half Lamb

butchered to your requirements

Delicious Home Made CAKES, DESSERTS, PIES, QUICHES and SCOTCH EGGS AWARD WINNING MONTGOMERY MATURE CHEDDAR & KEEN’S CHEDDAR

Large selection of Local Cheeses including Orders taken for Our Meat at North Cadbury Village Stores and at Maiden Bradley Village Shop

Wadman’s World Famous Cream ... from their Jersey Herd

ANNAMMA’S CUISINE

Homemade Authentic Southern Indian Curry Sauces made locally by a delightful Indian Lady

FREE RANGE EGGS

WE TAKE ALL MAJOR CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS

DAILY DELIVERIES TO THE SURROUNDING AREA

4 THE VISITOR September 2014

Letters To the Editor Wincanton Memories

Sir, As enlightened as the sixties were, at that time in Somerset, we were bound by very restrictive public house licensing laws, meaning closing time was at 10.30pm each week night or 11pm Fridays and Saturdays far different from the more relaxed situation we enjoy today.

Therefore, the trick was to frequent a local hotel, for example The Dolphin, were it was possible to take advantage of the residents lounge bar concession and stay as late as when the last hotel guest retired for the night, but being there only at the ‘invitation’ of that guest, who was usually an anonymous visitor staying perhaps for one night only. This created some very good, but very temporary acquaintances. The hotel proprietor was quite amazed by the enthusiasm shown by locals in making conversation with his hitherto unknown guests!

However, an alternative solution to the problem was discovered by Ron Tucker when the phenomenon of the Harvest Licence came to his attention.

This was a special late night extention granted to a certain number of rural pubs only which allowed those who were working the harvest to finish late and still have time to be refreshed.

Having discovered its existance, it therefore now became very important to find out which establishments benefitted from this legal concession, as it would also benefit equally non-harvest workers, such as ourselves.

A superb example was the White Horse at South Cheriton, when Ron and his friends Brian Padfield and Pete Grant, amongst many others, would arrive sometimes quite late, often long after the Wincanton houses had closed for the evening, to continue their night’s socialising. The very friendly, mainly farming locals, made these nocturnal visitors from the

town very welcome, and many new acquaintances were established - most turning into life-long friendships.

More to follow if my memory will allow!

Brian Padfield Now residing in Cornwall

Chronicler

Sir, On page 47 of the August edition there is a box containing a statement about Prince Charles. I think that the spelling error is irrevelant (sic) but the importance of the information in the box is the inevitable question; How much tax did he pay ?

Edward Jeffries

By Email

P.S. Excellent Book Review, Yeovil in the Great War.

Charity Theatre Trips

Sir, Bristol Hippodrome Trips that need to be booked by midSeptember are: Carmen performed by Welsh National Opera on Wednesday 12th November. William Tell performed by Welsh National Opera on Saturday 15th Novenber. War Horse on the evening of Tuesday 3rd February at £49, and possibly a matinee on Saturday 31st January at £52.

Trips for which I may still be able to obtain tickets: Barnum on Monday 22nd September, £46. Calamity Jane on Thursday 23rd October, £34.

Riverdance Sunday 5th October, matinee, Upper Circle only, £50.

Coppélia on Thursday 6th November at £44, will be a treat for ballet lovers. Wicked, Thursday 19th March evening, £50. Bookings for all of the above should be made as soon as possible.

Other shows available: Lord of

the Dance, Dangerous Games, Wednesday 13th May, £47. Dick Whittington, Sunday 5th January, Adult £39, child £27.

The Full Monty, Thursday 16th April, £36.

We pick up in Curry Rivel, Langport and Somerton. Then either Keinton Mandeville and Shepton Mallet, or Street, Glastonbury and Wells, depending on bookings.

Book by e-mail to: coxtheatre trips@btinternet.com, on line at www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk, or phone 01458 273085.

Chris Cox 2 Camden Road Somerton TA11 6RN

Letters from Women

Sir, It was with a high degree of interest that I listened to reports recently of concern over the small number of women who appear in the letters pages of our printed media. In my particularly case, given my frequent appearances, it is a cause of wry amusement; on occasion readers have even been known to complain about my prolific output. One can listen to all of the arguments about gender imbalance, and the fact that women just don't have the time to write, but this is plainly

codswallop. In my particular case, I spend a lot of time in the car, and rather than listen to music, I prefer to hear what's going on in the world, hence my passion for BBC Radio 4.

On reaching my destination, I have had the opportunity to shout out my opinion of whatever the hot topic of the day happens to be, in the privacy of my own car.

By then I have also already formed the letter I want to write in my mind. Writing it down, and sending it out into the wider world, is the most blessed relief; the perfect way to relieve pent up frustration at the injustices of this world. If, and when, my penmanship is published, there is also the satisfaction of knowing that I may influence others, even if it is only to respond in disagreement; rather that than apathy. It certainly saves bashing my head against the wall, or beating up the cat. By the way, this took me less than 10 minutes to write. There are those who may say, 'I can see that it did by the lack of quality.' Who cares?

Not me that's for sure.

Linda Piggott-Vijeh 3 Rectory Court Vicarage Hill Combe St. Nicholas TA20 3NE

Singles Social Group

(Not a dating agency – est 1979) Age range 40 – 60 approx.

Weekly Bar Night Events Include: Walks, Dances, Parties, Meals Out, Theatre, Cinema, etc.

For further details call 01749 330455 • 01278 788077 01458 840958 • 01934 743139

www.singleprofessionalassociation.co.uk

PONY / RECREATIONAL PADDOCKS FOR SALE at DEAN

Between Shepton Mallet and Frome TWO PADDOCKS, approximately 4.5 acres each, South facing, set 150 metres back from main road in a peaceful setting with pleasant views over surrounding countryside in an excellent horse riding area as each paddock has a direct access onto a well used bridle path, leading to a network of other bridle paths, large public Woodlands + quiet country roads. Both paddocks have good free draining soil, water, + planning passed for mixed equestrian + agricultural use. Wide, stoned, main road access, + both paddocks have wide stoned tracks along their full lengths.

In a Neighbourhood Watch area. Assistance with fencing, ménage building, etc. if required.

To be auctioned in September: please ring for further details 01749 673428 or 07801 347287

THE VISITOR September 2014 5

We Hear

That in Yeovil, when it comes to Masterchef and Celebrity Bake Off, they’re nothing compared to the Great British Yorkshire Pudding Challenge in Victoria Road.

That after eight long months, Castle Cary’s Steph Knocks has finally acquired the bookcase she wanted.

That residents were somewhat surprised to see a ‘To Let’ sign go up outside the Manor House in Charlton Horethorne, unfortunately, those wishing to pursue the offer, were disappointed to find out that the sign had been erected at the wrong property.

That Sally Meecham of Crewkerne can be a dab hand with sand bags when the need arises.

That whilst others like to swim with dolphins, David Mounsteven of Hurst likes to swim with seals.

That purchasers, and eaters, of the famous pies of Castle Cary butcher Charlie Hill wish him a speedy recovery.

That North Cadbury’s Dave Hoddinott is now known as the ‘incredible shrinking man’ having once been five foot eleven inches - allegedly.

That although the Post Office was unfortunately shut for many hours, it was thanks to the fact that the fire brigade is based in Mere, that it probably saved a much worse fire at this local post office.

That the ladies of a Castle Cary solicitors just don’t know how lucky they are to have a boss like Robin ‘the shovel’ Weelen.

That John Cadillac Hamblin of Yeovil is now known as James and is available for weddings, bar mitzvahs ... and proms.

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Call for Somerset businesses to complete flooding survey

While the sun is shining and the roads are packed with holiday makers, it can be easy to forget that just six months ago homes and businesses in parts of Somerset were underwater due to the prolonged period of flooding.

A snapshot survey by the Somerset Chamber of Commerce back in February revealed that an average of £17,352 per business had been lost in financial terms and productivity due to the flooding in the first six weeks of the year.

Somerset Chamber CEO Rupert Cox explains, ‘When we conducted our initial research earlier this year, many of those most affected did not have power or broadband,

or were busy trying to keep the water out and deal with the issues caused by flooding. As a result, and to get a more complete picture now the flooding is over, we’re rerunning the survey to find out what the true impact has been on Somerset businesses. We will use this information to fuel our future lobbying activity, ensuring that the required investment in infrastructure is made to protect homes and businesses in Somerset.

The survey can be found at www.surveymonkey.com/s/floodin greview.

Royal Air Forces Association

A happy bunch from the Sturminster Newton and Gillingham branch of RAFA answered a kind invitation to visit an outstanding display of model aircraft and a model airfield and came away fully enthused. Keeping to the theme of aircraft, the group had an incredibly worthwhile visit to Compton Abbas airfield where they were gripping their seats as a Falklands War Harrier pilot gave a graphic account of how he

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and his fellow Harrier pilots onboard Hermes, attacked, fought and survived in an extremely hostile and lethal air situation.

Regrettably, the weather turned and the flying display had to be cancelled.

RAFA has an excellent relationship with the small band of serving RAF in Blandford Camp and in April were guests in their Mess for a formal lunch with all the trimmings, and, a very reasonably priced bar!

Together they keep tidy a consecrated memorial to a WWII pilot who crashed in woods near Winterbourne Stickland.

Welfare is a large part of RAFA and is not funded by government.

Last year it spent £1.4 million in welfare grants made possible by fund raising. For the first time RAFA participated in The Party in the Rec in Gillingham and made friends with a great number of folk in gorgeous weather and made a good start towards their target. Volunteers have continued the work throughout the summer and, in September, to coincide with the anniversary of the Battle of Britain, they look forward to meeting you at the Sturminster Cheese Festival.

Through the years, contrary to the national trend, membership has steadily increased. It is now nudging 110. If you would like to know more about them contact Tony Dee on 01258 473489 or join them for lunch for £7 at the Crown, Marnhull on Thursday 23rd October at 12noon.

First World War activities a hit!

The 100th anniversary of the beginning of the First World War was commemorated by South

That a certain Chiselborough gentleman insisted on dining out on Friday - but booked the taxi ... the restaurant ... and his diary reminder for Saturday!

That a request has been made for Castle Cary’s Paul ‘guitar and vocals’ Hansford to reform the Scottish folk-rock band Strange Stone, with a view to re-issuing the 1977 private pressing of their limited edition album.

That a big thank you goes to Giles Belbin, writer of the Cycle Babble column in this magazine for the past four years, for his informative and interesting articles. He contributions will be missed ... and we wish him good luck for the future.

6 THE VISITOR September 2014

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 12.30pm, or by appointment

Morley House, Market Place, SOMERTON, Somerset, TA11 7LX • www.awruleandson.co.uk

Mentioned in

Dispatches Somerset District Council’s Heritage team recently, by holding children’s activities at Milford Hall and St Peter’s Hall in Yeovil.

Participating children really used their imagination to produce ‘trench art’, tanks, a café, love hearts and mementoes like the soldiers would have done in the trenches. Tissue poppies were made and taken home as well as decorated postcards. The children used a variety of materials to decorate the postcards and wrote messages to make someone happy.

Other activities included word searches and colouring in soldiers.

Whilst writing messages on their newly decorated postcards, the children were asked what makes them happy. Answers included: friends, food, my cat, football, chocolate, the seaside and Wotsits!

Councillor Sylvia Seal, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture said, ‘These activities were

designed for three different reasons: something for the kids to do during the school holidays, an educational activity and also to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the First World War. I’m delighted that so many children took part in the two sessions and that children as well as adults enjoyed them.

‘The Heritage Lottery Fund grant has allowed us to provide a vast range of different activities to commemorate the 100th anniversary. Most of these we wouldn’t have been able to provide if our bid was not successful’.

The day was funded in part by the Heritage team’s successful Heritage Lottery Fund application. The grant of £6,400 from the HLF, awarded through the First World War: then and now programme, will focus on producing a booklet commemorating the First World War for all school children in South Somerset.

Carnival Time

It’s that time of year again when the famous Wessex Carnivals get under way. Over the next three months we will be listing the Carnivals taking place in the

coming month from the Wessex Grand Prix Circuit, the South Somerset Federation, the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association and others.

They start with Sturminster Newton on 23rd August, and in September, Blandford Forum on 6th, Mere on 13th, Frome on 20th, Shaftesbury on 27th and Wellington also on 27th.

And more ...

South Petherton Carnival will take place on Saturday 13th September at 7.30pm from the recreation ground and proceeding with a route around the village.

Roads into the village will be closed at 6.30pm.

Wincanton Choral Society

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to join a friendly and go ahead Community Choir?

The Wincanton Choral Society

is a choir of nearly 100 voices and is looking for new members in all parts of the choir – Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass.

There are no auditions and ladies and gentlemen of all ages are welcome – just come along and join in! If you enjoy singing and would like to perform a range of choral works in two concerts per year, with professional soloists, orchestra and under the leadership of a professional conductor come along for a ‘taster evening’.

Call John or Trina Cole on 01963 351916 or email: ccmcole@gmail.com or visit www.wincantonchoralsociety. co.uk for more information.

Wincanton Choral Society is a registered charity.

Rehearsals start on Monday 8th September at 7.15pm in King Arthur’s School, Wincanton. We look forward to seeing you!

Dog tired of high prices?

CROSSROADS PET SUPPLIES VISIT

SUPPLIERS OF

• Pet Foods • Bird & Pigeon Seeds • Full range of Toys, Hutches, Accessories

... all at competitive prices Ample FREE PARKING outside the Door Find us at Forward Garage on the main A30 between Sherborne & Yeovil

Tel: 01935 411859 .

Private Nursing Care from £700.00 per week The Aurora Care Group offers private nursing care in our Somerset nursing homes at prices from £700.00 per week

www.hendfordcarehome.co.uk 166 Hendford Hill, Yeovil, BA20 2RG 01935 470400 info@auroracare.co.uk

Our homes are spread across south Somerset and variously offer:

● 24 hour nursing care in purpose built accommodation ● Large single en suite rooms with ensuite wet rooms ● Comprehensive social programmes with several activities a day, designed to stimulate physically, intellectually and socially ● Restaurant standard dining in own rooms or dining rooms ● Frequent trips out in our own minibus ● Beautiful landscaped gardens with breathtaking views over the Somerset countryside

www.hurstmanor.co.uk Hurst, Martock, TA12 6JU 01935 823467 info@hurstmanor.co.uk

www.elliscombehouse.co.uk Higher Holton, nr. Wincanton, BA9 8EA 01963 33370 info@elliscombehouse.co.uk THE VISITOR September 2014 7

Leisure & Tra vel

The Motorhome Show Shepton Mallet 12th – 14th September

IT’S THAT TIME of year again for the Shepton Mallet Motorhome Show, held for the 29th year at the Royal Bath & West Showground, just south of Shepton Mallet in Somerset, on the A371. There’s no better place to view and compare so many different models than at this popular show.

Over the long weekend of the 12th - 14th September everything

September Notice Board HENSTRIDGE

Blackmore Vale U3A, A Talk from Royal Yacht Britannia’s chef, 2nd September at 2.30pm at Henstridge Village Hall.

Members £1.50, visitors £2.50.

MARTOCK

Sherborne Town Band plays The Last Night of the Proms, 27th September at Martock Church, TA12 6JL, 7.30pm. Tickets £7 on door, £6 from 01935 822706. This award-winning traditional brass band thrilled a large audience in 2012 and you will have an entertaining evening.

TRENT

Trent Annual Flower & Craft Show, Saturday 13th September, Village Hall, Trent. Open to the public at 2.30pm, entrance £1.

YARLINGTON

Yarlinton Fayre, something for all the family, including the dog.

Saturday 13th September from 11am. Set in the stunning gardens of Yarlington House, between Castle Cary and Wincanton (off the A303).

ADVERTISE YOUR OCTOBER EVENT HERE!

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 - send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid, maximum 20 words. Extra words 30p each.

Deadline for October issue, Monday 15th September.

8 THE VISITOR September 2014

‘Motorhome’ will be for sale; from the latest new designs to preloved models along with a host of accessories from the very latest awnings, to reversing aids and high tech electronic gear, plus a

MU

SI

C

FOR

great selection of outdoor leisure clothing, all at unbeatable prices.

In addition to the exhibition, visitors staying for the long weekend have a varied entertainment programme

THE

M

ON

TH

AUGUST 23rd RAY JONES BAND - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi 24th STORM - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 29th MUTTER SLATER - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 30th THE VANS - Montague Inn, Shepton Montague SEPTEMBER 5th FAT MARROW BLUES BAND - Kings Arms, Thornford 6th THE INTRUDERS - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 6th CAPRICORN COUNTRY - Lamb & Lark, Limington 14th TOM TOOMEY (3pm - 6pm) - Prince of Wales, Ham Hill 20th FLATLAND BOOGIE BAND - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 28th NO FIXED ABODE (3.30pm) - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon

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

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

By John Osborne • Answers can be found on page 47

1. ‘A New World Record’, ‘Out of the Blue’, ‘Discovery’.

Albums from which legendary band?

2. Name the male who made a ‘Beautiful Noise’?

3. Name the feisty lady who is ‘Staring at the Sun’ at the moment.

4. Lyric; ‘My Maserati it does one-eighty-five, I’ve lost my license so now I don’t drive’ 5. Who sang ‘On the Wings of Love’ in 1982?

6. How do we best know Christopher Hamill?

7. ‘Polythene Pam’, ‘Mean Mr. Mustard’, ‘Here Comes the Sun’.

Tracks from which Beatles album?

8. Richie Sambora is best known as axeman with whom?

9. Lyric: ‘Keys that jingle in your pocket, words that jangle in your head’

10. Peter Skellern once said ‘You’re a … What?

Bonus Question ‘Sounds of Silence’ An album which duo?

Extra Bonus Question ‘Huey Lewis and the … who’?

Question Impossible In the Supremes song ‘Someday We’ll Be Together’ an uncredited male voice can be heard providing harmony and response to Ms Ross. Who is it?

Great Quotes in Music (72) “A concert is not a live rendition of our album. It’s a theatrical event.” – Freddie Mercury

organised for them, with cabarets on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Friday night’s fun is hosted by funny man ‘Mickey John Bull’.

He’ll be introducing singing sensation ‘Rhiannon’ and the band for the evening ‘Ocean Drive’. It’s all change on Saturday night with comedian/compere ‘Garry Dorsey’ introducing cabaret star ‘TJ’ and band for the evening ‘Metson’. There’s also a fun craft competition on the Sunday morning and a best pet show around lunchtime.

The show opens 9.30am - 5pm.

Admission charge for day visitors is adults £5 per person in advance online at www.seetickets.com or £7.50 per person on the day. Accompanied children under 16 are free and day car parking is also free.

Visitors who would like to stay for the whole weekend can arrive from Thursday onwards. The weekend fee is £40 from Thursday or £35 from Friday onwards. This includes unlimited admission to the show plus all of the free evening entertainment. For more details visit www.themotorhome show.com or telephone 020 8302 6069 or 01159 461146.

Drayton Street Fair

Drayton Street Fair will be celebrating its 19th consecutive year on Saturday, 30th August 2014, between 11am and 4pm.

Parking is free and there is a 50p entry charge. As well as the usual favourites there will be new things to see and do this year.

The main focus for this year’s charitable endeavours is to raise funds for the Macmillan Cancer Support and of course to support Village Projects including essential repairs to the Village Hall. The BBC Radio Somerset Bus will be attending again this year and is planning a live broadcast during the day!

There will be a wide range of family entertainment including Punch & Judy, a bouncy castle, local craft and produce stalls, a display of classic cars, and music from the Kingsbury Brass Band and the Irish Folk Band Diaspora.

The Grand Draw’s first prize will be a £100 cash (plus many more fantastic prizes) and of course our large and popular Tombola has hundreds of prizes for adults and children alike.

Last but not least, to tempt your appetite, there will be a hog roast, bacon rolls, ice creams, and Pimms together with refreshments in the Village Hall Cafe, Drayton Plant Nurseries and the Drayton Arms Pub. Come along and join us for a guaranteed day of fun for all ages.

Leisure & Tra vel

Cycle-Babble

Pictured ‘Dothan Silver Coin’ winner of the Award for Best Grey, at the Wessex Heavy Horse Show 2013, owned by Mr. Wilson.

19th Annual

Saturday 30th August 2014

11:00am to 4:00pm * Free Parking * Admission 50p

TOP CLASS stage racing returns to Britain this month with the 2014 edition of the Tour of Britain.

The first race to carry the title of the Tour of Britain came in 1951, when the Daily Express sponsored a race that started and ended in London. Across its 12 stage, 1,400 mile route, the race headed as far west as Plymouth and visited Wales and Scotland, with stage finishes in Cardiff and Glasgow respectively. It then headed down the eastern coast of England enroute back to London.

Forty-nine riders entered the race, 38 finished. The winner was Ian Steel, who won three stages and claimed the overall by over six minutes. His understated reaction at becoming the race's first champion? “It's been great fun.”

Since its 1951 inception the Britain had a national tour pretty much every year until 1994. It was often run under the banner of a different name – the Milk Race, the Kelloggs Tour and Pru Tour being just a selection – and some years there were more than one race vying to be recognised as the nation's tour, but there was at least a race of some kind or other. Look through the list of winners throughout that period and you'll stumble across a couple of famous names. Hennie Kuiper won in 1972, the same year as he took Olympic gold in Munich.

Kuiper would go on to finish second in the 1977 Tour de France and win atop the fabled Alpe d'Huez, as well as claim four of cycling's biggest one-day classics in the early 1980s. Then, in 1989, Scotland's Robert Millar, who had by then won the King of the Mountains in both the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, as well as finishing fourth in the Tour and second, twice, in the Vuelta a Espana, won the race.

Britain's national race disappeared from the calendar in 1995, returned in 1998 and 1999 but was then absent again for five years.

In 2004 the race returned, organised by SweetSpot. Since then it has gone from strength to strength, with each edition of the race building impressively on the previous year, and with winners including those at the very peak of their careers, winners such as Nick

Nuyens (2005 – the same year he won the important one-day race Omloop Het Volk) and of course Bradley Wiggins (2013 – 12 months after his yellow and golden Tour and Olympic winning 2012).

This year's race starts in Liverpool with a 105km circuit race and ends in London, seven days later, with a short time-trial followed by another 89km circuit race. The total race distance is just shy of 1,380km.

There are three stages within travelling distance of Visitorland.

Stage Four ends in Bristol and stage five is from Exmouth to Exeter, whilst stage six starts in Bath. So, for those with a fulltank of petrol, across those three days you can watch a sprint finish, a hill-climb, and a stage start – all of which will give very different experiences of the same race. Some of the biggest teams in cycling will be present, including Team Sky, Saxo-Tinkoff and Garmin Sharp. It should be a terrific week of racing. For more details on the exact routes for those three stages head to www.tourofbritain.co.uk.

Sadly this is going to be my final Cycle Babble as other duties call. When I started writing this column the London Olympics were still over two years away, top level women's cycling was virtually unheard of in this country (despite us possessing one of its genuine stars in Nicole Cooke) and a British Tour de France winner was a muchmocked dream of the few within British Cycling who held the faith. Now, with hugely increased participation, the legacy of those Games is truly being realised, we have our own world-class women's Tour and Britain has not one but two Tour champions.

In four years much has changed and I get the feeling we are only just getting started.

Thank you for reading.

Giles Belbin.

To watch archive footage of the 1951 Tour of Britain go to http:www.britishpathe.com/video/ tour-de-britain.

The 2014 Tour of Britain starts on Sunday 7th September. The race will be broadcast live on ITV4 with a one hour highlights show each evening.

THE VISITOR September 2014 9

HOBBIES, PASTIMES & ANTIQUES

Italian Passions

This October will see a very special training course come to Bruton’s Sexeys School, providing anyone who loves Italy, its language and its food, with an opportunity to learn both.

With language instruction delivered by experienced local Italian teacher, Jo Harvey, and cookery tuition provided by cookery 'appassionata' Julia Cardozo, daughter of Anna Del Conte 'the Queen of Italian cookery', this promises to be an inspiring four days.

Jo and Julia are passionate about bringing a taste of Italy to

BARTON STUDIO GALLERY Lois Mary Blackburn

Art – Gifts – Classes

Leaded, Painted and Fused Glass Dichroic Glass & Gemstone Jewellery Paintings and Prints

01458 851563

www.bartonstudiogallery.com

8 High Jarmany Rural Workshops Jarmany Hill, Barton St. David TA11 6DA

Wessex and are delighted to share their knowledge of Italy’s language and the food. Students will return home, ready to continue with their Italian experience.

Spaces are limited so for more information please contact Jo Harvey at italiaathome@ gmail.com

Barton Studio Gallery

This year Barton Studio Gallery is participating in Somerset Art Weeks Open Studios for the first time, from 20th September - 5th October. Pick up a free guide and find venue 113. Do come along if possible, you are sure of a warm welcome. You will find unique handmade items with prices to suit all pockets: artglass, jewellery, wall art etc., and Lois will be working in her studio on various projects.

Maybe even enrol in a class or commission a new piece!

Showing October 11th - 26th, new work by Vic Blackburn: Templates, Landscapes and Portraits. Opening Day Party: meet the artist over refreshments.

Open: 10am - 6pm except Thursdays.

ACORN MUSIC

Jewellery can always be found at Crewkerne’s Antiques Bazaar.

YEOVIL’S INDEPENDENT MUSIC STORE WE’RE STILL HERE!

Still trading after all these years with an even bigger range of CDs across all genres at GREAT SALE PRICES ... loads of VINYL too

3 Glovers Walk, Yeovil

 01935 425503

Italia at Home

‘A taste of Italy in the heart of Wessex’

Set on the border between Somerset and Dorset, Italia at Home offers the opportunity to learn Italian, the most beautiful language in the world, and learn to cook the most wonderful and authentic Italian food, all in the beautiful Wessex countryside.

From 25th to 28th October 2014

The 4 day course includes:  Meet and Greet with Anna Del Conte, the ‘Queen of Italian Cookery’  3 nights accommodation in single or twin rooms at Sexey’s School, with all meals provided  15 hours of beginners’ level language tuition with Jo, an experienced and qualified teacher  9 hours of regional Italian cookery tuition with Julia, Anna Del Conte’s daughter  An evening of Italian wines  Italian film evening  A traditional meal cooked for you to enjoy on the final day £375 Organised and run jointly by Jo Harvey and Julia Cardozo For more information, prices and an application form please contact Jo on 07811 781484 italiaathome@gmail.com • www.dorset-italian.co.uk

10 THE VISITOR September 2014

A great antiques and lifestyle centre Over 70 traders at one large venue Open 7 days a week │ Free parking The Home Bakery for tea, coffee, snacks and freshly prepared food The Old Textile Mill, South Street, Crewkerne TA18 8AG

01460 77121

www.antiquesbazaar.co.uk

HOBBIES, PASTIMES & ANTIQUES

Sherborne ArtsLink

Sherborne ArtsLink’s fascinating Autumn programme is now available. Those interested in music can enjoy a course exploring classical music and the arts before the Great War, learn to play the ukulele, or celebrate the season singing songs from the middles ages to the present day.

Those looking for something quieter can spend a day practising botanical painting, or join one of the many practical art courses. In addition, you can brush up your Italian or French ready for that next trip with weekly classes. The programme starts on 22 September, so there is still time to book.

Full details are available from www.sherborneartslink.org.uk or 01935 815899.

Butterfly Bright

Butterfly Bright of Sherborne is a haven for those who like to sew, crochet and knit! It is run by proprietors Alison Nurton and Caroline Bradshaw who both

Jenny Martin always has an attractive selection of jewellery.

Gold & Silver Jewellery Wanted Best prices paid for wedding rings, pendants, chains, bracelets, and broken items, etc.

Go Karts from Berg are now available from Ben Johnson of Shaftesbury. There are karts to suit all ages from 3 years up to adult!

A fun pastime for all ages.

teach various classes.

Yarns from Rowan, Rico and Knitcol, work boxes from ‘Button It’, haberdashery, buttons, ribbons and trims are all stocked.

Over a 120 bolts of cotton fabric are on sale together with fat quarters ideal for patchwork.

Gift items are available including Tweedmill and Avoca' throws in lots of bright colours and designs – ideal for picnics or the home, also RICE melamine picnic/children’s tableware. Ever popular are the Cath Kidston and GreenGate ceramic ranges.

Amongst the locally made items are mobile phone and kindle covers, aprons and customised tooth fairy pillows!! Jewellery by

Queen of Hearts and Working Glass Jewellery and unique oilcloth bags by Eleanor's Attic.

Painting competition winners

The winners of the recent painting competition held by the Little Art Shoppe, Sherborne were:- 1st - Adrianne Fowles, Summer Hare, Pastel; 2nd - Allan Ashworth, Stormy Weather, Watercolour; 3rd - Anne Turberville, French Sunflowers, Pastel.

The Little Art Shoppe would like to thank to all who took part in the competition. Participants who did not win will receive consolation prizes.

The Little Art Shoppe has

PREMIER ART SHOP Winsor & Newton Premier Art Centre Daler-Rowney Main Stockist for South Somerset & North Dorset area Exclusive Premier Art Centre Promotions Helpful Advice Available A family run business serving the community for 110 years

12 Cheap Street, Sherborne

Tel: 01935 817100

Beginners Patchwork and Quilting Workshop: 10 Weeks Starts 24th September, 10am – 12noon, call to book

GO-KARTS for ALL AGES!

4 TILTON COURT (OPP SHERBORNE ABBEY), DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DORSET, DT9 3NL TEL: 01935 817303 • www.butterflybright.com

Karts to suit 3+ years to adults 2 Year Guarantee ... prices from just £99

5 Year Guarantee

North Dorset & South Somerset

Homeware * Fabrics Haberdashery * Yarn Making Workshops * Gifts

Phone Jenny Martin Castle Cary

01963 350733

everything you need whether you are a professional or amateur artist. With the autumn approaching now is a good time to take up a new hobby or evening class. Call in and see their complete range of paints, pastels and artist materials.

Leading stockists of Winsor & Newton and Daler-Rowney.

Sturdy metal construction Adjustable handlebars and seats Fun for all the family SEE OUR RANGE

Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park, SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 • www.benjohnsonmowers.com SALES – SERVICE – REPAIRS

Office Equipment & Furniture Printer Inks and Toners Competitive Prices

FREE Local Delivery

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PROMOTIONS NOW AVAILABLE

 Ideal Christmas Gift 

John Deere BFR-AF

Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap

“Buzzy”

Stockists of Sheaffer, Parker, Lamy, Cross and Waterman Pens Call at our shop ...

21 Cheap Street, Sherborne Tel: 01935 814225 or visit our website ...

www.midwest-office.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2014 11

HOBBIES, PASTIMES & ANTIQUES

Bumper Book Sale at Lawrences

Lawrences' bi-annual book sales in Crewkerne regularly attract keen collectors and the 500 lots offered in their summer sale drew in many determined collectors.

There was considerable activity from online bidders, participating ‘live’ on the internet.

An early highlight of the day was the £7640 paid for a rare copy of Beatrix Potter's beloved ‘Tale of Peter Rabbit’. Many children have enjoyed the story since it was published over a century ago but this copy came from the second privately printed

edition of just 200 copies, hence its high price.

From the descendant of the late William Rooke came a fine library of antiquarian interest. The collection had once formed part of the library at The Ivy at Chippenham in Wiltshire and many volumes reflected Rooke's interest in The Grand Tour. High prices were paid for an incomplete set of Piranesi's engravings of classical artefacts entitled ‘Vasi, Candelabri etc.’(£7170) and three volumes of 60 engravings after Raphael subjects in the Vatican (£5730). A very fine album of 28 architectural drawings by Antonio Maria Visentini (16881782) comprised views of Rome and took £14340. Travels from further afield saw £3940 paid for John Marra's account of HMS Resolution's voyages under Capt.

Cook (published 1772-1775). This book included engravings based upon some of the very earliest recorded sightings of Antarctica.

A lithographed panorama of Moscow from 1848 on ten sheets extended to over 14 feet in length and made £7400.

For lovers of good Natural History, nine volumes of birds of Europe by H. E. Dresser contained over 720 hand-coloured plates and flew to £5250. For the modern collector, fifteen volumes

of ‘James Bond’ first editions by Ian Fleming must have left the vendor ‘shaken and stirred’ when they sold for £3340 against hopes of £500. Finally, a fascinating archive of letters, cards, notes and photographic slides relating to T. S. Eliot was exceptionally well received. It came from Morley and Jean Kennerley and the former was a fellow director with Eliot of the publishers Faber & Faber. Eliot, who died in 1965, is buried at East Coker, between Crewkerne and Yeovil. The charmingly informal notes cast a refreshingly personal light upon Eliot and many of the messages reflected the depth of friendship between the Eliot and the Kennerley families. The archive was bought for £13140.

For Every Cloud of Langport – Workshops

There is always something happening at For Every Cloud in Langport.

There are a host of workshops to choose from. It is an art shop, print and photographic studio and it also has a gallery.

In October they will be part of Somerset Art Weeks with a pop up studio on Saturday the 4th from 11am until 4pm - part of the Big Draw, an artist led family drawing workshop, £10 per family. For workshop details visit www.spaeda.org.uk or telephone 01458 254262.

Yandles Woodworking Show

Yandles are pleased to announce the line-up of demonstrators for

Hazy-Maes Auctions Auctions and House Clearance Services

AUCTIONS HELD FORTNIGHTLY ON A SATURDAY Viewing all day on Friday prior, 9.30am – 6.30pm

FORTHCOMING AUCTIONS

Sat 30 th Aug, Sat 13th and Sat 27 th Sept from 12noon

1 Bancombe Court, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, TA11 6SB Tel: 01458 274615 • Mobile: 07709 038620 Visit our website: www.hazymaesauctions.co.uk

Sales, Repairs & Servicing of PCs, Laptops and Peripherals Excellent & Professional Service & Support 27 Years of Experience in Computers Established Reputation

18 Broad Robin, GILLINGHAM SP8 4PJ Tel: 01747 821063 www.ajscomputing.co.uk email:sales@ajscomputing.co.uk

OPEN: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.30am – 5pm • Closed Wednesday • Saturday 10am – 1pm

One stop shop for all your computer needs

12 THE VISITOR September 2014

An interesting collection of gardenalia at Tinhouse of Somerton statues, cherubs, birdbaths, pots and more! Please telephone to check on openeng times.

Tinhouse Home & Garden

Antiques • Furniture • Vintage • Retro • Gardenalia • Pots Birdbaths • Sundials • Statues • Sculptures • Bought & Sold Open 10.30am ‘til 4.30pm Weekends Only for all other times please contact us first

Tel: 01458 241298 • Mobile: 07971 244441 Sutton Road, South Hill, SOMERTON, TA11 7JG Approx. 1 1⁄3 miles from Somerton Town Centre heading South on B3165

For Every Cloud

Tel: 01458 251475

Bow Street, Langport, TA10 9PR

Bookbinding for Beginners: Sunday 7th September, 10am – 4pm, £55 pp Introduction to Photography: Saturday 6th & 13th September, 10am – 1pm, £120 pp Screen Printing for Beginners: Sunday 14th or 19th September, 10am – 4pm, £55 pp Painted Furniture: Tuesday 16th September or Saturday 18th October, 10am – 3pm, £55 pp Relief Printing with Lino: Sunday 28th September or Sunday 5th October, 10am – 4pm, £45 pp Watercolour for Beginners: Thursday 23rd October, 10am – 2pm, £35 pp Raggy Wreaths: Sunday 26th October, 10am – 3pm, £45 pp Christmas Bunting: Sunday 2nd November, 10am – 3pm, £45 pp Calligraphy for Beginners: (4 week course) Tuesday 4th ‘til 25th November, 4pm – 6pm, £48 pp Needlefelt Reindeers: Saturday 8th November or Wednesday 3rd December, 10am – 4pm, £55 pp Christmas Calligraphy Workshop: Saturday 15th or Saturday 29th November, 2pm – 5pm, £35 pp Lino Cut Christmas Cards: Sunday 23rd November, 10am – 3pm, £40 pp

For Every Cloud is a creative venue with an art / craft shop, gallery, print & photography studio.

Children’s parties and events by appointment. Call or email to book a place: foreverycloud@icloud.com

HOBBIES

its forthcoming show on the 5th and 6th of September. We are very excited to be able to say that Stuart Mortimer, Nick Agar and Mark Sanger will be amongst our Turners alongside David Appleby and new to Yandles, Andy Rounthwaite. This show, we also have Xavier Haines demonstrating furniture restoration, Elaine Day doing Willow Day and the Japanese Tool Group will once again be demonstrating their skills along with Terry Heard with his broom making. As always, there will be an excellent display of stick making, marquetry, carving, (including demonstrations by Martin Turner) and new to us this year sign making, alongside the displays that Exeter Woodcarvers, West Country Wood Carvers and Martock Wood Turners put on.

The show is now one of Britain’s longest running woodworking shows and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the UK and Europe. Taking place in a traditional Sawmill, which was founded over 150 years ago, makes the Show unique and as you would imagine from a Timber Company offers the best selections of timber to be found at a UK based Woodworking Show.

Joining the Demonstrators will be many of the woodworking industries manufacturers, including Record Power, Brimarc, Sorby and Triton. All will be demonstrating their products and offering special show prices.

As always, all timber from our Self – Selection Centre will be discounted, there will be lots of show bargains, a sale in the Hobby shop, plus demonstrations and a Refreshment marquee and our outstanding 303 Gallery to

look around. There is free entry and parking to our Show which makes it an event not to be missed.

For further details look on our Website: wwwyandles.co.uk or email us on: info@yandles.co.uk, Telephone: 01935 822207. Yandle & Sons Ltd, Hurst Works, Martock, Somerset, TA12 6JU.

WOODWORKING SHOW AND SALE WITH CRAFTS Friday 5th September 10am — 5pm

Saturday 6th September 10am — 4pm

Why visit a Yandles Show?

It has FREE Entry and Parking

This attractive cardigan and waistcoat pattern in double knit is from King Cole. King Cole have launched a British Breed Wool ‘The Masham Collection’ produced in Yorkshire. Exceptionally soft, it is available in Masham DK Superwash and Masham Misty DK hand wash. The former is in solid dyed shades and is machine washable, the latter is soft spun, a mix of dyed wool and ecru that requires hand washing - ideal for felting projects. Available from Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts of Sturminster Newton.

Numerous Trade Stands displaying all the Latest Woodworking Equipment

A great line up of some of the best Woodworking Demonstrations to be found in the UK Plus has a SALE throughout our Woodworking & Hobbies Centres Also, Arts and Crafts Demonstrations and SALE Craft Gallery and Refreshment Marquee — AA SIGN POSTED —

Full details on our website check it out on: www.yandles.co.uk

(where you can see 100’s of products at great prices)

Yandle & Sons Ltd.

Hurst Works, Martock, TA12 6JU Tel: 01935 822207 Email: info@yandles.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2014 13

HOBBIES, PASTIMES & ANTIQUES

The Balsam Centre

The Balsam Centre in Wincanton is launching Saturday workshops and courses, starting September, in Textiles, Printmaking, Horticulture, Floristry, Dorset Buttons and Middle Eastern Cookery.

Come and learn how to make textile postcards, take perfect photos, cook something exotic or learn five methods of printmaking and more!

In the heart of Wincanton, they are easily accessible with free parking and lovely grounds.

Costs range from £15 for a short workshop to £180 for a six month course. If there is something you would like to see run, let them know. For further details contact 01963 31842 or visit www.balsamcentre.org.uk

your order early!! They have a fabric library to choose from and leading names include: Simpson, Chatham-Glyn and Harris Tweed.

Proving popular is the Tuesday

Scenes

Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist Scenes of Gillingham has a superb choice of paints, papers and accessories to suit your requirements. Water colours, acrylics, oils, inks and pastels are all readily available in a myriad of colours. Books and DVDs are available for tuition.

Scenes offer on-the-premises picture framing. With his many years of experience, proprietor Philip can advise on the best mount, frame and glass to enhance your picture. And it’s not only pictures that can be framed - tapestries, football shirts, baby shoes etc. can also be framed.

Forge Fabrics of Stalbridge

The Old Forge at Stalbridge has been in the Jeans family for several generations. Today it is home to Forge Fabrics which is run by mother and daughter team Wendy and Emily.

Forge Fabrics stock dressmaking materials, haberdashery, wool, cushions and handicrafts.

They have a workshop on the premises and undertake soft furnishing – so if you would like new curtains for Christmas place

Stitches of Stalbridge

Toys from yester-year make collectible items. Visit Pastimes of Sherborne.

PASTIMES of Sherborne

We pay TOP PRICES for OLD TOYS - any condition Trains • Cars • Lorries • Soldiers • Etc. Britains * Dinky * Corgi * Hornby Meccano * Tri-ang * Etc. Shop Open Mornings 9.30am - 1.00pm Monday to Saturday

Tel: 01935 816072 Mob: 07527 074343 HOME VISITS BY ARRANGEMENT

3 Westbury, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3EH

      

COMING SOON WEEKEND WORKSHOPS AND COURSES

Textiles Printmaking Photography Horticulture Floristry Dorset Buttons Middle Eastern Cookery

Balsam Centre Balsam Park Wincanton 01963 31842 or visit www.balsamcentre.org.uk

14 THE VISITOR September 2014

morning Knit and Natter sessions - all are welcome - knit, natter and enjoy a piece of cake and a cuppa. Beginners dress-making classes are also available and a Myboshi crochet class is planned - please call for further details.

A warm welcome awaits.

Stitches of Stalbridge specialize in garment repair and alteration, Shoe/leather repair, sewing machine servicing and sales.

They stock haberdashery, quality American cotton, craft books, kits and gifts and can source items on request.

Erika, the owner said ‘We stock beautiful jewellery by Jenny

Bennet and have just introduced ‘Elements of Adornments’, unique silver designs by talented Amanda Pugh that wouldn't be out of place in London!’

For Autumn they continue with their friendly, sociable workshops covering crafts - Crochet, Knitting, Cross stitch, Machine sewing projects - Sew-a-Bag, make a vintage apron, use a pattern, cutting out with sewing hints and tips thrown in!

Pick up a leaflet outside the shop, visit Facebook page or phone 07971 238442.

Wild Cardz

Wild Cardz of Wincanton are now pleased to offer a range of knitting yarns by King Cole. They stock everything from 3ply through to chunky knit plus a range of haberdashery items such as knitting needles, elastic, buttons etc.

There is a range of patterns to include knits for dolls and premature babies, soft toys, Christmas and Halloween items plus fashion knits. Knitted Commissions are undertaken – in particular for baby clothes.

Children’s crafts such as painting by numbers, beads and modelling (Playdoh) can be found - plus an assortment of craft papers and glues. Craft Kits containing an assortment of items such as wires, wiggly eyes, pom

Stitches of Stalbridge

 Garment Repairs & Alteration  Shoe / Leather Repair  Sewing Machine Servicing / Sales  Workshops

Contact Erika on 07971 238442

Tuesday – Friday 9am – 5pm • Saturday 9.30am – 12pm • Closed Monday

Bespoke Picture Framing ON THE PREMISES

 A recent framing commission

Framing the usual and the unusual Open 6 days a week • Expert advice

SCENES

High Street, Gillingham Tel: 01747 824050 scenesol@aol.com

FORGE FABRICS A family run business for all your sewing needs

Dress Fabrics  Soft Furnishings Haberdashery  Wool  Handicrafts

 KNIT & NATTER: Tuesdays 10am – 12noon  BEGINNERS DRESSMAKING: Fridays 10am – 12noon The Forge, Ring Street, Stalbridge, DT10 2LZ  01963 548138

ARTS

HOBBIES

Somerset Art Weeks 2014 Open Studios 20th September - 5th October

Artists from every background and discipline will be opening their normally private working environments to the public during Somerset Art Weeks. From Minehead in the north of the county to Forton near Chard in the south, over 200 venues will be showing a huge variety of work, many of the artists opening their doors for the very first time this year. Look out for the free guide which has full details of all the venues or visit www.somersetart works.org.uk for information.

Exhibition at John Leach Gallery, Muchelney

poms etc. are proving very popular at just £4.99 – ideal to keep the kids amused. Loom Bands are now in stock!

Visit our new website www wildcardzofwincanton .co.uk

Ballroom Dancing

John Birtles, a professional dancing teacher, has been teaching for 50 years. With the increase in popularity of cruises - John has found that he gets a lot of enquiries from passengers who want to learn prior to their holiday. Tuition can be on an individual basis or in private groups. Why not take up dancing as a hobby? It is tremendous fun and a useful social skill.

There are hundreds of models to choose from, at Mark’s Models, on the Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil, plus Airfix kits to get you started if you are thinking of model making.

This September the John Leach Gallery is delighted to welcome back Greg Poole for a solo exhibition of his latest original prints from 8th September until 11th November.

Born in Bristol near the Avon Gorge, Greg took a keen interest in birds from an early age. It was

A local Diary the easiest form of wildlife to watch. At 25, the frustration of passively witnessing wildlife spectacles caused him to look for a means of actively exploring what he was experiencing.

Drawing, painting and printmaking gradually became familiar toolkits helping him clarify what he saw and communicate this to other people.

‘In the field my main way of working is memory drawing watching until there is a key posture, or a tipping point in how much the memory can contain,’ he explains. ‘Then I try to distil what I have been seeing, using the pentup excitement from watching to make drawings.’ In his studio, with experiences more completely digested, Greg uses printmaking techniques to explore a theme.

The John Leach Gallery and Shop at Muchelney Pottery, Muchelney, Nr Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DW is open Monday to Saturday from 9am1pm and 2pm-5pm. Telephone 01458 250324. www.johnleach pottery.co.uk

AIRFIX MAIN STOCKISTS 100s of Models in Stock Planes, Trucks, Formula 1, and more Extensive Range of Diecast Models

Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road Pen Mill Trading Estate YEOVIL BA21 5HR Tel : 01935 471154

Wild Cardz

35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU • Tel: 01963 31234

WOOL - WOOL - WOOL We now stock Knitting Wool

3-Ply through to Chunky Knit, Needles, Patterns, Haberdashery

★ CHILDRENS CRAFT ★

Including ... Paints, Beads, Craft Kits, Loom Bands

www.wildcardzofwincanton.co.uk

BALLROOM DANCING • Private Lessons • Modern Ballroom • Latin American • Party Dances

Langport Dance Centre JOHN BIRTLES Professional Dancing Teacher

P.T.D. Members Latin & Ballroom

Telephone: Langport (01458) 250322

Members Latin & Ballroom

THE VISITOR September 2014 15

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

Robert Stone & Co., Chartered Accountants and tax advisers in Ilminster answers questions from small businesses in Somerset

Don’t leave it to luck !

Regular advertising brings results If you would like help in planning your advertising for 2015 telephone ... on

01963 351256

Or Email info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd

Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary BA7 7BH Tel: 01963 351052

Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service

Q1. In July 2011 I sold a property which had been used for my business. I planned to re-invest the proceeds in another property, but that acquisition never happened. I know I should now pay Capital Gains Tax on the gain made in July 2011. How do I go about doing that?

Robert Stone replies:

The period in which you should have re-invested the proceeds ran out in July 2014, so you do need to pay the CGT due for 2011/12 unless you get the tax inspector to agree to extend the period for reinvestment. He will only agree to an extension if you were prevented from reinvesting by circumstances beyond your control.

The disposal made in July 2011 should have been reported on your 2011/12 tax return as part of your provisional claim for rollover relief. You should now write to the tax office to withdraw that provisional claim and declare the full taxable gain. The tax will be payable immediately and interest will run from 31 January 2013.

Q2. I work as a self-employed courier for a large courier company who operates selfbilling for VAT purposes and pays me monthly. I have just registered for VAT which has been back-dated to 1 May 2014. What should I do to collect the VAT due for May, June and July?

Robert Stone replies:

You should ask your customer if

it is acceptable for you to issue a VAT only invoice to them.

Calculate the VAT due as if the total amounts you have received in May to July under self-billing are the net amount of your fees for the period. You should also supply your customer with a copy of your VAT registration certificate, so the company knows to add VAT to your self-billing invoices in the future.

Q3. My personal service company is about take on an IT servicing contract in Belgium. The customer will pay me a rate for every day I attend their premises, on top of my fee for the whole contract. This 'per diem' rate is less than HMRC's benchmark rate for expenses when working in Belgium.

Can it be paid directly to me personally or should it be paid to my personal service company?

Robert Stone replies:

The 'per diem' rate should be paid to your company and be included in its turnover for VAT purposes, so treat it as a gross receipt including VAT. Your company can pay you expenses for working abroad, at or below the HMRC agreed benchmark rates. Do not short circuit this by accepting the ‘per diem’ rate straight into your personal bank account as this will create a VAT mess.

If you have an urgent query contact Robert Stone on 01460 55661.

OFFICE SPACES TO LET Woodside Court SPARKFORD

Attractive out of town premises within easy access of the A303

Ideal for Start-Up / Expansion Businesses Full Amenities including Toilets, Kitchen, Meeting Room Facilities ... and Ample Free Parking

Competitive Rental • Flexible Tenancies • Non Restricted Opening Hours Enquiries: MARYANNE STOKES 07747 676833 Or email: info@woodsidecourt.co.uk • www.woodsidecourt.co.uk

16 THE VISITOR September 2014

Wine &

Dine

Alcohol in the House

AT THE TIME of writing the house ‘rose’ this week and will return on 1st September. The ‘house’ I am referring to is of course the ‘House of Commons’, where our elected MPs go about their daily work on our behalf.

As one might expect, at some point in the day, they do need to seek a little refreshment, of either the liquid or more nourishing kind. I took advantage of a recent Freedom of Information request to have a look at what’s on offer. Their own website is not kept up to date so some of the information may be a little out of date, but as with all behemoths I suspect the wheels of power turn slowly so much will still be current.

Those entitled to use the onsite catering facilities (there are others off-site) are the 13,000 pass-holders, which includes Members of both Houses, their staff, House staff, civil servants, contractors’ staff, members of the Press Gallery etc., as well as members of the public and non-pass-holding visitors to Parliament. They have access to 4 table service restaurants, 3 self-service options, and 4 bars / lounges.

Food and drink menus are on a six weekly rotation and change on a daily basis. I’ve never been much of a person for either selfservice or buffets myself, much preferring to be waited on hand and foot. So with this in mind, I have confined my observations to the Members’ Dining Room, the Strangers’ Dining Room and the Churchill Grill Room (although the actual menu says ‘Dining Room’).

It is well recorded that in return for all of their tireless toil MPs get to enjoy the benefits of subsidised dining and imbibing. Given the central London location, £17.35 for a fillet steak does seem like a bargain, and I wouldn’t have minded the seared sea bass on chive potato pancakes with roast shallot pureé and tomato dressing. This costs a mere £4.15, if eating in the Members’ Dining Room, but the same dish, I see is £6.90 if eaten in the

Strangers’ Dining Room. Perks indeed. There are of course strict rules about who can eat where, and when.

What is interesting though is that from the three restaurant menus I was able to obtain they all offer the same ‘Wine Recommendations’, and at the same prices; so the moral must surely be ‘eat the same food and pay more, drink the same wine and pay the same’. Could this be a deliberate ploy to make our MPs drink more, no matter where they choose to eat?

The two recommendations on offer were:Pinot Grigio Boira Organic, Veneto, Italy 12%, 2011, £17 a bottle (£4.70 for 175ml.)

Côte du Rhône, Domaine de l‘Armandine, France, 13.5%, 2009, £15.50 (£3.90 for 175ml.)

They do at least offer the wines in 125ml. sizes, my preferred measure, which is now very difficult to obtain in pubs and restaurants although they are legally required to offer it.

The main wine list, which is fairly lengthy but not extensive, seems to be largely well chosen, with quite a number labelled under the House of Commons brand name, which makes it difficult to find out who the producer is, but they do provide useful raffle prizes for MPs doing the rounds of village fêtes and

fund raisers.

Aside from the branded wines the champagne on offer is Lenoble Rosé Vintage Brut 2005, at £40.85, which given that it retails for £34.20 is a real bargain.

However, I would have hoped that in the Churchill Grill Room at least they would offer Pol Roger, known to be the British Bulldog’s favourite marque.

It may be of interest to readers to note that since the coalition was formed the House of Commons has bought in more than 25,000 bottles of champagne, totalling £275,221.

In 2010 champagne purchases totalled 4,691 bottles, rising by 72% to 8,082 in 2013. Clearly they like a drop of the good stuff, as an ardent champagne lover myself it would be hypocritical of me to make adverse comment.

Finally, also on offer is MâconLugny « Les Genièvres », an excellent Burgundy, from one of the top vineyards in the Mâconnais region. Made from 100% Chardonnay, it is described as opulent, rich, with a flowery bouquet and lovely honey, apple and nutty flavours on the palate, Tony Blair apparently celebrated his election victory with a glass.

Available for us mere mortals to buy at Tanners, the 2012 will set you back just £12.70.

LP-V.

Truffles BRASSERIE

95 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AR

LOBSTER SPECIAL

Friday 29th and Saturday 30th August Please book in advance and confirm you will be wanting lobster Dishes include Fresh Lobster Salad and Thermidor — visit website for further details —

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL Set 2 Course Menu £10 from 6pm

Bookings call: 01749 812180 or email: trufflesbruton@gmail.com www.trufflesbrasserie.com

TASTES from the WEST COUNTRY

Bower Hinton Farm Shop

Bower Hinton Farm has been owned and run by the Palmer family for over 160 years.

The Farm Shop was opened by Duncan and Sally Palmer in April 2006 over which time it has grown and improved so that today it can offer a substantial range of quality, affordable products.

Duncan specialises in growing outdoor vegetables and salads plus indoor strawberries. Produce is harvested daily to maintain freshness and as he harvests it all himself, quality is maintained.

Currently, home grown produce includes - cauliflowers, broccoli, carrots, primo cabbage and runner beans, with autumn strawberries ready soon. All home grown produce is competitively priced as there are no 'food miles' or 'middle men' involved!

Why not enjoy a cup of delicious coffee in the coffee shop? Coffee is supplied by Reads of Sherborne and tasty, homemade cakes made by JJs Cakes. Bower Hinton Farm Shop is a proper farm shop on a real working farm.

New Cross Fruit Farm

New Cross Fruit Farm has been a specialist fruit farm since 1948

and is run by the Hebditch family. William and Liz are the 2nd generation here.

They farm 170 acres atop the first range of hills south of the Somerset Levels, and their deep and fertile sandy clay loam allows them to grow a range of fruits and asparagus.

They run a small farm gate outlet during the picking season and you can also buy and try their produce at numerous independent retailers and restaurants throughout the South West.

William and Liz pride themselves on growing the best quality produce, all picked and packed by hand on site. They grow a wide variety of produce and love to see old and new faces alike enjoying the fruits of their labour.

Andrew Barclay - Traditional Family Butchers

Andrew Barclay Butchers in Wincanton High Street, is so much more than a traditional family butcher. Not only do they serve their customers with the finest locally sourced meats, along with bacon, ham and cold meats, they are also able to offer them a tempting range of hand-made

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock

n

Open Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 6.00pm

Vegetables & Fruit in Season Our own bunched Carrots, Cauliflower, Courgettes, Potatoes, Runner Beans and Cabbages now available Autumn Strawberries - 2nd Week of September Local Meat - Joints - Sausages - Bacon - Poultry Frozen - Pastries - Fruits - Vegetables - Ready Meals Draught and Bottled Local Cider - Free Range Eggs Jams - Preserves - Cheese - Cakes - Pickles - Wines

Autumn Strawberries 2nd Week SEPTEMBER

Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Tel: 01935 827743

Gold Award Winners Taste of the West 2014

Open for Lunch Wednesday – Friday Open for Evening Meals Tuesday – Saturday Sue, Crispin & Jane look forward to meeting you

Over Stratton, nr. South Petherton, Somerset www.newfarmrestaurant.co.uk Tel: 01460 240584

THE VISITOR September 2014 17

pies and pasties, ideal if you have hungry mouths to feed!

Local cheeses stocked include Montgomery and Keen’s Mature Cheddar, along with Wadman’s world famous cream from their Jersey herd and free range eggs.

There are always special offers available at Andrew Barclay Butchers (see advert for details), so pop in and stock up your freezer! The friendly and helpful staff will be pleased to serve you, but if you can’t get in to Wincanton orders are taken at North Cadbury Village Stores. and Maiden Bradley Village Shop. See advert page 4.

TASTES from the WEST COUNTRY

has come from stock-born, was raised and finished in the West Country and fed at least a 70% forage-based diet.

The Lagan Farm shop at Orchard Park Garden Centre is home to Gillingham’s only independent butchery. Their PGI status beef and lamb comes from their own farm just next door

Lagan Farm, Gillingham – Top Quality Local Meat

We are so lucky to live in the West Country; nothing quite beats our very own wonderful beef and lamb which is often recognised as top quality across the food industry. A Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) status has been awarded in recognition of the excellence of the meat to prevent any replications on the market, so consumers can be sure that what they are eating is the genuine article. To qualify, a number of different criteria must be met, including: guaranteeing the meat

which ensures food miles are kept to an absolute minimum. They always have a number of offers, including ‘Meat of the Month’, giving you great quality local meat at better than supermarket prices.

What’s more, they also offer a wholesale and local delivery service! You can call the Lagan Farm Shop directly on 01747 833747.

Kimbers Farm Shop Moving Late September 2014

Delicious smoked duck, just one of the tastings at the Brown and Forrest Smokery Open Day on Saturday 13th September.

Kimbers Family run Dairy & Mixed Stock Farm, farming in Charlton Musgrove for 300 years!

The family run award-winning farm shop is moving to Linley Farm Charlton Musgrove BA9 8HD, (B3081 Wincanton to Bruton road), along from Wincanton Race Course and Otter Nurseries.

Famous for their home bred and reared traditional breed meats, free range, grass fed, slaughtered locally, hung for flavour, and professionally butchered. Aberdeen Angus Beef, Gloucester Old Spot cross pigs, Welfare Friendly Rose Veal, slowly grown free range chicken, ducks, turkeys and geese. Their ethos is unchanged; they’ll still

KIMBERS’ FARM SHOP

Open: Tuesday / Friday 9am – 6 pm Saturday 10am – 4pm TASTE OF THE WEST AWARD WINNING PRODUCTS CIWF Dairy Award 2012 Listed as one of Britain’s Top 10 Farm Shops 2013 Home Produced Aberdeen Angus Beef Gloucester Old Spot Pork Bacon & Gammon Lamb, Hogget and Mutton Welfare Friendly Rose Veal • Charcuterie Game & Fish • Our Raw Milk Also Quality Local Produce including Veg, Eggs Dairy, Preserves, Cakes, Bread, Ice Cream, etc.

Cider, Beers, Wines & Spirits • Cards & Gifts Home Grown Free Range Geese & Turkeys Free Range Ducks, Cockerels & Chickens Find us off the B3081 Bruton to Gillingham Road

Higher Stavordale Farm Charlton Musgrove, Wincanton, BA9 8HJ Tel: 01963 33177 / 07966 426962 www.kimbersfarmshop.co.uk

Animals reared with love and affection at Lagan Farm, Gillingham.

stock top quality local produce including dairy, vegetables and fresh fish. And, of course, their lovely natural unpasteurized milk.

Don’t miss their Open Day, with tasters of local products stocked, on 5th October, 10am 4pm.

Root & Vine – Sturminster Newton

Alongside the colourful fresh flowers delicious English apples make an inviting display outside Root & Vine. Now is one of the best times of year to enjoy fresh locally grown produce such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cabbages, cauliflowers, tomatoes and lettuce ... to name but a few. New potatoes from Devon are currently just £8 for 25kg. Local jams and chutneys are stocked, also honey from Gillingham. Why not try your hand at pickling or wine making and enjoy these delicious flavours throughout the year?

Root & Vine also sell more exotic fruit and veg, together with fresh herbs, wild bird food and charcoal.

Proving popular are the bags of snacks at £1 which include dried fruits, nuts, seeds, etc. Keep healthy – have your 5 a day – visit Root & Vine for freshness and value.

Blueberries, Raspberries & More!

Delicious West Country Fruit & Veg Strawberries • Carrots • Cabbages Salad • New Potatoes • Local Flowers • Jams Taste the difference

18 THE VISITOR September 2014

OT & VINE O R Prop. Sue McShane Your local independent greengrocer

Market Place • Sturminster Newton Tel: 01258 472576

Autumn Weddings

IF YOU ARE having an autumn wedding why not reflect the seasonal colours in your wedding attire and floral choice.

For the bride, a wedding dress in beautiful cream or gold, and for the men in the wedding party waistcoats and cravats to match or tone. Floral arrangements in bold golds, yellows and oranges, with the use of natural foliage such as twigs, seed pods and dried grasses for the bouquets and venue decorations.

If you prefer the more traditional and want to keep to the middle ground perhaps a palette of peaches and cream, with roses and orchids - always a firm favourite along with flowers such as freesias for their wonderful perfume.

The Montague Inn the perfect country wedding venue

The Montague Inn is the perfect venue for the intimate wedding experience. The airy terrace room seats 70 most comfortably and the terrace itself is a great place

to meet and greet your guests, whilst enjoying the panoramic views with Alfred's Tower on the horizon. Sean and Suzy are always available to discuss and choreograph your very special day.

Ward & Sibley The Jewellers of Yeovil

Ward & Sibley Jewellers offers good old fashioned service based on the 67 years it has 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.

If you are looking for that special ring visit Ward & Sibley - the Jewellers of Yeovil, they carry an extensive range in stock and orders can normally be obtained within seven days.

They can also recommend the best style of ring to sit with your existing ring(s).

Montague Inn

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

Any bride would be delighted to carry this elegant bouquet a design from Blooming Linda’s in Somerton.

Stunning wedding flowers for your special day

... personally designed to suit you and your budget!

BALLOONS  GIFTS  SUNDRIES Cut Flowers & Plants

Blooming Linda’s Prop. Sara Howland

Shepton Montague nr. Bruton Tel: 01749 813213

Y ES! WE DO WEDDINGS

Bespoke parties large or small are our speciality

West Street, Somerton, TA11 7PR 01458 273030 • www.bloominglinda.co.uk

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil where quality and service count

✴ Commissions Undertaken ✴

Call to discuss your personal requirements

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

THE VISITOR September 2014 19

Autumn Weddings Cupids Corner

This shorter length bridesmaids dress is proving very popular available from Cupids Corner in Gillingham.

In addition to the exciting and diverse collection of beautiful wedding gowns, Cupids Corner stocks a collection of gorgeous Bridal Accessories and Jewellery including Vintage style headdresses, Veils, beautiful lace or satin boleros and Rainbow Club shoes. The shop also has a constant selection of sale price sample gowns for those with a lower budget ... please don’t be afraid to ask. Cupids Corner is a wonderful place to buy your wedding dress, with excellent service and advice to assist you in choosing the perfect style for your individual shape. Our aim is for you to look and feel wonderful on your wedding day.

To bring the whole look of the wedding party together, brides can explore the amazing choice of Bridesmaids and Flower girl’s dresses. There are superb colour and fabric choices, and three ranges to choose from. Two of the new dresses feature lace detailing to complement the many lace wedding dresses which are currently so popular.

Please call 01747 825525 for

Cupids Corner Bridal Design Wedding Gowns

Bridesmaids Dresses

Flower Girls Dresses

Prom Dresses & Ball Gowns

appointments or for more info visit the website at: www.cupidscornerbridalwear.com Like us at Facebook.com/cupidscornerbridal to keep up with the latest news.

Oomph and Lift for a perfect figure ...

Correct fitting underwear can enhance your figure dramatically, so make sure you are professionally measured for the correct sized bra!

Many of us big or small have a problem area whether it is a spare tyre or a not so perfect bottom! With the invention of Miracle Suits and Magic Knickers any unsightly lumps or bumps can be smoothed away.

The Miracle Suit can make you

Pretty posies displayed on shabby chic painted furniture from Just Maria of Ilchester. Flowers, Vintage Clothes and Furniture.

Stunning Flowers for Every Occasion Beautiful Bridal Accessories

Imaginative Gifts ✶ Unusual Cards ✶ Vintage Clothing Painted Furniture ✶ Decorative Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan

The Old Chapel, Church Street, ILCHESTER Tel: 01935 706121 • Mobile: 07837 385734 www.justmaria.co.uk

Accessories

Jewellery

Shoes

01747 825525

8 Newbury Court Gillingham Dorset SP8 4QX

www.cupidscorner-bridalwear.com

20 THE VISITOR September 2014

look 10lbs lighter in 10 minutes, made from lightweight materials it is extremely comfortable to wear.

Elaine at Oomph and Lift of Street says, ‘We offer a free fitting service and encourage ladies to bring their special outfit to the shop so they can see just what a difference the correct underwear can make.’

Oomph and Lift have a delightful selection of bras to suit all shapes and sizes including sports bras, girl’s first bras and mastectomy bras. For friendly and helpful advice call in today. New seasons stock is arriving shortly including Pour Moi? Adding to their already extensive range. Please note Oomph and lift will be closed from 21st August and reopening on the 8th September for annual holiday.

and

Lingerie

Professional Fitting Service Hosiery * Swimwear

Beautiful Lingerie to enhance your figure

STOCKIST OF

Panache: 28 – 46, D – K New In ‘Sculptresse’ Range: 36 – 46, D – K ... also Sports Bras Charnos: 30 – 38, A – H Lepel: 30 – 38, A – G New Season Stock Now Arriving Royce Non-wired Bras * Girls First Bras Mastectomy Bras * Nursing Bras Miraclesuits: 10lbs lighter in 10 seconds

Vestry Court, Vestry Road, STREET

 01458 898952 • Turn by William Hill - opposite Living Homes

Weddings

Orchard Florist is revamped!

Regular visitors to Orchard Park Garden Centre in Gillingham will have noticed the exciting changes over the last few weeks to the flourishing floristry department, where the new layout has enabled Orchard Florist’s two talented and qualified florists, Laura and Nikki, to provide a more professional and personal service to their customers, giving them the space to include a consultation area that’s perfect for planning those special events.

Alongside creating beautiful bespoke bouquets and arrangements, the florist boasts a stunning range of wedding giftware and decorative items to add those oh-so important finishing touches to your very special day.

Book your free consultation by calling (01747) 835544.

Orange Blossom Bridal Boutique

Orange Blossom Bridal Boutique has been helping brides to find the wedding dress of their dreams

for over 18 years. Originally based in Weston-Super-Mare they moved to Street in 2011 and have quickly become one of the ‘must visit’ bridal boutiques in the area.

Whether you are looking for pure fairytale, understated chic and elegance, or something in between, Orange Blossom will have the style for you. With prices ranging from £750 to £1,600 there are dresses to suit all budgets.

Grooms and the other men in your wedding party are not forgotten, Orange Blossom also offer Mens Formal Hire.

Being a husband and wife team, Christina and Michael pride themselves on their personal service and will go that extra mile to ensure everything is just perfect. And there is no need to worry about your busy schedule, flexible appointment times, including evenings, are available.

Orange Blossom are currently offering your groom’s outfit free of charge with all orders of a wedding dress placed until 30th September 2014 (subject to at least 3 other adult mens’ outfits

A stunning bespoke crystal necklace £110 - the perfect eye-catching necklace for your wedding day, prom or evening wear.

British made. For a range of unusual and interesting jewellery visit Ayerst & Graces of Street.

Simply Stunning ...

“Where jewellery meets design”

Featuring British led jewellery with the emphasis on innovative design ♦ Bespoke design service ♦ Repairs on the premises

54 High Street, Street, Somerset, BA16 0EQ Tel: 01458 898242 • Web: www.ayerstandgraces.com

THE VISITOR September 2014 21

Autumn Weddings Eleanor Florence Bridal

of equal or greater value being hired from them). For more information or to book an appointment call Orange Blossom on 01458 840006, visit www.orangeblossombridal.co.uk or contact them via facebook.

For a superb choice of quality ladies wear (sizes 8 – 26) at a fraction of their original price new: separates, suits and dresses, special occasion outfits, evening wear.

MANY DESIGNER LABELS To complement your outfit ... a range of accessories: hats, shoes, bags and jewellery.

Cruise wear and wedding outfits now being accepted. Current styles only.

Agents for Gibbs Dry Cleaning Open: Monday – Friday 9am – 4.30pm Saturday 10am – 2pm

The Triangle Somerton TA11 6QJ

(30 yards from the Post Office) E: debrajanedressagency@outlook.com

22 THE VISITOR September 2014

If you are looking for a designer outfit for a special occasion Debra Jane of Somerton is worth a visit.

Debra pictured shows a stunning dress in lime green print with matching jacket from Jacques Vert just £60 complete (size 22).

Many other styles, and sizes available plus of course a range of matching accessories such as hats, shoes and jewellery.

Eleanor Florence Bridal, Prom & Ball Gowns, a beautiful mix of new dresses and old charm. Find them in Princes Street, Yeovil a perfect setting, perfectly situated on the border of Somerset and Dorset.

Sandra and staff are passionate to help each bride find the perfect wedding gown, whatever her requirements, while at the same time creating one of life’s most memorable and enjoyable experiences.

They attend many of the top wedding shows, and keep stock of the latest fashions, keeping up with trends in wedding and evening wear. Once you have found your dress they offer an extensive range of accessories to complement your look, with vintage style tiaras as well as contemporary headpieces, veils, shoes and stoles.

Whether you are looking for a statement hat or glamorous fascinator, Eleanor Florence can help. With a wide variety of styles and colours to match any outfit, you are sure to find your perfect

choice. Shopping for a wedding dress or prom dress should be a magical experience and at Eleanor Florence they promise as much magic and sparkle as you could possibly wish for. You can shop for your whole outfit in one gorgeous place.

You are always welcome to browse or appointments are available. Phone 01935 472670 open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5.00pm.

Paige - a touch of glamour from Eleanor Florence of Princes Street, Yeovil.

Weddings

The Coppleridge Inn

They are now approaching their quarter century of providing the most wonderful weddings and receptions at The Coppleridge Inn. This year they have added their beautiful Woodland Wedding Venue to the options there and it has proved a huge success with happy couples going away with very fond memories and superb photos of their special day.

Next year they will be having a permanent marquee throughout the summer with very attractive packages for a fantastic wedding day with plenty of flexibility on venue, drinks and meals.

They are receiving lots of bookings so contact them as soon as possible or look at their website www.coppleridge.com to reserve your perfect wedding at The Coppleridge Inn.

Fantastic prizes to be won in the Shirley Allum Fashion Week 8th 13th September, such as £250 in the Joseph Ribkoff draw. Plus Dame Zandra Rhodes will be in store on the 9th promoting her vibrant range of handbags.

Shirley Allum Fashions

Shirley Allum Fashions welcome the iconic designer Dame Zandra Rhodes to their Autumn Fashion Week (8th - 13th September).

During the day they have goodie bags and raffles with all proceeds to the Breast Cancer Campaign.

Dame Zandra Rhodes will be on hand from midday 9th September to promote her discerning and vibrant handbag collection and to sign autographs.

The collection is now in stock at Shirley Allum Fashions and Lingerie, 30 High Street, Shaftesbury Dorset. SP7 8JG Every day during the Fashion Week you will have a chance to win a fantastic prize, for example: Joseph Ribkoff up to £250, Brax Jeans, Zandra Rhodes Signature bag.

The programme is as follows: Mon 8th - Gerry Weber Day Free jewellery roll with purchase (while stock lasts non sale).

Tues 9th - 10.30am Joseph Ribkoff catwalk preview.

12.00pm-4pm meet Dame Zandra Rhodes.

Wed 10th - Masai Day - free goodie bag with purchase.

Thurs 11th - Brax Jeans representative to advise on Brax Jeans.

Fri 12th - Crew Clothing Day free raffle to win a piece of Crew Clothing, up to the value of £50.

Sat 13th - 4.30pm £100 Fashion draw, £250 Joseph Ribkoff draw.

Wedding invitations - simple, sophisticated and informative.

Popular are envelopes containing the invitation plus all the information a guest may need. See the range at FWB Printing in Wincanton.

complete package or individual items: Save the Date cards, Invites, Order of Service, Place cards, Table numbers, Table seating plans and Thank you cards. Alternatively you may like to consider a wallet style invite with a range of information cards

contained, detailing the extra information your guests will need to know about your special day.

They can even help the best man with visual aids for his speech!

Call them on 01963 33755 or email sales@fwbprinting.co.uk for more information.

FWB Printing

FWB Printing appreciate your wedding is a very special occasion. They will help bring your vision to reality by tailoring bespoke stationery to complement your theme and budget.

Their services include a

WOODLAND WEDDING VENUE NOW AVAILABLE

THE VISITOR September 2014 23

Autumn Weddings Hooper’s Hats

Elegant vintage fashions at Forever Fashion Bridal Boutique, Wincanton

For hats, hatinators or fascinators visit Hooper’s Hats in Yeovil. Sally has completed her new HIRE collection for 2014. Her extensive collection is exclusive to her and if you cannot find what you are looking for, Sally can make you something for your outfit to purchase or sometimes to HIRE. Hooper’s is an eye opener into the vast range of designs available, the choice, colours and styles are overwhelming.

With lots of helpful advice on offer you will find Hooper’s a pleasurable experience. There is also an abundance of exquisite clutch bags to match her hats, again ALL TO HIRE. V i s i t h e r w e b s i t e www.hoopershats.co.uk and browse through her Gallery for a small sample of what is on offer or telephone her to make an appointment on 01935 706555.

Visit the florists at Orchard Park in Gillingham for all your wedding day requirements bouquets, buttonholes, church and reception venue.

Forever Fashion Bridal Boutique Opening Friday 29 th August 10am – 5pm Wedding Dresses from Pre-War to 1980s Shoes • Hats • Veils Head Dresses • Lingerie Jewellery Bridal Party Clothing • Mens Suit Hire Hand-Crafted Bunting ...

And Decorations for the Occasion Hire of Vintage Linen OPEN: Friday & Saturday, 10am – 5pm Other times by appointment

Forever Fashion - Bridal Boutique Church Street • WINCANTON • BA9 9AF Tel: 01963 34308 OPPOSITE CAR PARK 24 THE VISITOR September 2014

For the widest choice of hats around, visit Hooper’s Hats ... a bespoke service is also offered.

Hooper’s Hat Hire

100s of exquisite hats and fascinators to hire, buy, or made to complement your outfit

01935 706555 • www.hoopershats.co.uk

Weddings

A delightful gown in tulle and diamante by Goya for under £500.

Just one of many stunning gowns available from ABC Wedding Dresses - visit their new Langport showrooms.

ABC Weddings – Move to Langport

Caryl Kendal of ABC Wedding Dresses in Yeovil has been in the wedding industry for 22 years and has built up an excellent reputation, initially starting in Martock before moving to her South Western Terrace premises. This month sees ABC moving to the outskirts of Langport - to an attractive new, galleried showroom at Kelways. To ensure the bride to be has personal attention ABC will operate on an appointment only basis. The new showrooms will house an extensive range of gowns from leading makes including Goya and Hermoine plus

a full range of bridal accessories.

Bridemaids dresses and prom dresses will also be available as before – plus an excellent alteration/seamstress service. The telephone number remains the same. Please visit the website for full details.

GOOD LUCK!

A visit from the chimney sweep at your wedding will bring you good fortune!

J.R. Sansom Chimney Sweep

 07974 662145

Wedding Dresses

We have moved to ...

The Loft, Kelways Langport, TA10 9ST Extensive stock of bridal gowns bridesmaid & prom dresses

 APPOINTMENTS ONLY  Ample Parking • Cafe Nearby

Tel: 01935 425331

Visit our website for further details www.abcweddingdresses.co.uk

Brides ... your hands are important, book a manicure with Elegance Beauty Therapy Clinic, Wincanton.

CELEBRATING 31 YEARS

Élégance

Beauty Therapy Clinic For a complete range of treatments ... * Facials * Waxing * * Bodywrap * Pedicures * * Manicures ... and more * A LADIES ONLY SALON

Sandie Barrett

M.B.A.B. • Th.C. • C.I.D.E.S.C.O.

8b Church Street, Wincanton (01963) 34115

A feast fit for a king or queen from Living Pretty at Curry Rivel - an ideal venue for a hen party.

The Old Bakery, High Street, CURRY RIVEL, TA10 0ES

Join us in our relaxed & friendly surroundings Morning Breakfast Monday – Friday 7.30am – 11am Saturday 8am – 12noon

Lunches Dishes of the Day - Open Sandwiches Salads - Soups - Jacket Potatoes and so much more!

Somerset Afternoon Cream Tea for Two: £18 Delicious Finger Sandwiches - Homemade Cakes - Scones and Clotted Cream - all served on a Vintage Style Cake Stand with China Tea Cups and Saucers

Fully Licensed: Enjoy a Glass of Wine / Beer / Cider with your Lunch Buy Your Fresh Bread Daily • Cakes Made To Order

SUPPER CLUB EVENING THURSDAY 25th SEPTEMBER To reserve a table please contact 01458 253357 www.livingpretty.co.uk • kate@livingpretty.co.uk

Weddings & Special Occasions

Outside Catering Wonderful Celebration Cakes & Hand-Crafted Cup Cakes - To Order Beautiful Vintage China - To Hire Plus ... Home Furnishings ✶ Fabrics ✶ Cushions ✶ Lamps ✶ Gifts GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE THE VISITOR September 2014 25

Weddings

One World

If you are looking for an unusual wedding gift, a visit to One World in South Petherton is a must.

Here you will find six individual showrooms over two floors displaying a beautiful range of gift items from around the world, and many of them Fair Trade.

Ceramic pots, wooden figures, rugs and hand made glass vases make unique gifts - you will also find within One World unusual greetings cards and stationery items to wrap your gift. There is a stunning range of silver jewellery - ideal as a gift for older bridesmaids. For the younger bridesmaids and page boys visit the toy department with its wonderful selection of traditional toys. Do call in.

Jenna Evans

This attractive table decoration is just one of the many created by Williams Floristry of Stalbridge.

today on 01963 362355 or visit their website – www.williamsflorist.co.uk for a gallery of photos and more information.

And finally ...

It’s said to bring good luck if a sweep walks a few steps with the bride on her wedding day.

Don’t leave things to chance, call John Sansom on 07974 662145.

17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166

If you are looking for beautiful wedding flowers

that are expertly arranged, then look no further as we can add design, beauty and impact to your wedding flowers to suit your own style and budget.

Station Road, Stalbridge, Dorset, DT10 2RQ Tel: 01963 362355 Email: williamsflorists@live.co.uk www.williams-florist.co.uk

26 THE VISITOR September 2014

Family Health with

Williams Floristry

Williams Floristry and Gardening, is a florist and Garden Centre situated in the heart of Stalbridge, and has served the Blackmore Vale and surrounding area for over 40 years. Their service is second to none, offering floral designs and arrangements for any occasion, with weddings being a speciality.

With your wedding day being one of those treasured moments Williams Florist can design your flowers just for you, to suit your style, theme and of course budget.

To arrange a free consultation, call

LO O K I N G G O O D

Back To School - Part One

IT’S BACK TO SCHOOL for the little ones in September, so let’s take a peek at some supplements that can be helpful from tots through to teens.

Omega 3’s - Much focus has been given to Essential Fatty Acids, especially the omega 3 family. A major component of our brains and nervous systems, EFA’s can be helpful for improving mood and concentration. Get your kids to snack on mixed seeds such as hemp, flax, sunflower & pumpkin to provide a mix of good fats and lots of minerals important for growth such as calcium, magnesium and zinc. Add a good omega 3 supplement for an extra boost - there are lots to choose from including flavoured chewables, liquids and capsules, something to suit every child.

Multi-Vitamins - I consider a good multi-vit to be a foundation supplement for all children. The environment we live in is pretty toxic and the soil is not as nutrient dense as years ago, so even with the best diet in the world (and how many people manage that?) we may still be borderline for several important nutrients. With a child's increased demands from growth, hormonal changes or study stress a comprehensive multi-vit can be very helpful. You can find a selection of vits for your children from 1 month old to teenage years.

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

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Probiotics - These good bacteria have a great influence on our immunity and digestive health. I recommend pregnant mothers to supplement to improve their own bowel flora and to supplement their babies' for a few months when born. There are associations with lowered allergies, improved immunity and more settled digestion when probiotics are supplemented in children. For more information on probiotics see lasts month's Visitor article.

Winter Helpers - Back to school can bring with it all sorts of lovely bugs and beasties doing the rounds! If your child is eating and supplementing well, then hopefully they’ll miss a lot of the sniffles. A couple of extra supplements to bear in mind for the winter though, would be Vitamin D and an immune complex. There have been concerns in recent years that our children are often low on vitamin D as cases of rickets (the deficiency disease of vitamin D affecting the bones) have been increasing. This may be in part due to our obsession with slapping on high SPF’s and covering ourselves from head to toe when in the sun. This interferes with the body manufacturing vitamin D from the effect of sunlight on the skin. It’s important for us all to get lots of shorts bursts of sunlight, on bare skin, whenever we can - especially as we don’t usually have a summer like this years! As well as bone health, vitamin D is important for immunity and mood. There are plenty of kid's vitamin D supplements available to give them a boost through the winter months. When children do get run down with an infection, black elderberry and colloidal silver are useful medicines to have on hand.

Black elderberry is an anti-viral and is often found in formulas for coughs, colds and sinus or chest infections. Colloidal silver is anti-

REGISTERED OSTEOPATH

TREVENEN PASCOE

BSc. (Hons.) Ost. Med. ND. BUPA & PPP Recognised Cranial & Structural Osteopathy

42 High Street SHEPTON MALLET Somerset BA4 5AS  01749 342594

& FEELING FINE

bacterial, anti-viral and antifungal and so can be tried out on more or less anything! You can take small amounts orally, use as a throat spray for soreness and even as a spray for head lice. On the subject of those little critters, there are lots of home made lice treatments that can be very effective. Try a blend of oils such as lavender, tea tree and thyme in olive oil (20 drops to 50ml) as an overnight treatment, or soak the hair in white vinegar for a couple of hours before shampooing. A repellent spray can be made from the aforementioned oils in a base of white vinegar or colloidal silver.

That’s all for this month, join me for Part Two next time.

Jenna Evans ©2014.

Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil stock a wide selection of children’s supplements. For more information drop in and have a chat with one of the team. Jenna is available instore at Ceres to advise by appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Find Ceres on Facebook as ‘Ceres Natural Foods Ltd’.

Find Jenna on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty’. 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.

Andrew Knight, Osteopath

Andrew Knight, Osteopath, has been practicing in Castle Cary and Somerton for 27 years

offering treatment for physical conditions associated with the musckulo-skeletal system and Applied Kinesiology evaluations that enable him to offer advice on diet and nutrition, assess allergic responses and provide tailored advice in a consultancy role on a person’s health and wellbeing.

Andrew has moved his work location to Keinton Mandeville, consolidating the two practices into a new treatment room and continuing to offer the same high level of service to Castle Cary and Somerton residents.

A preliminary web page of information for patients is at www.andrew-knight.co.uk Andrew can be contacted by email to osteopath@btconnect.com or by phone / text on 07889 857289.

FREE PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES OR FREE SPARE PAIR with any frame from our £75 range or above

Needful Things

At Needful Things of Castle Cary, their Sale of Summer Clothing is still going strong with all Summer garments now at least 50% off!

Meanwhile Autumn Clothing is starting to arrive; plum and deep red are the first colours to arrive in practical, easy to wear styles, separates and dresses with great textures and striking prints.

Pomodoro, Great Plains and Intown will lead the way this season with additions from Saskia and Ochre Cashmere following soon. Plus Ireland's eye knitwear a little later in the year.

Why not pop into Needful Things this week to catch a lastminute bargain on summer fashions and catch a glimpse of things to come this autumn?

Has moved to

Coombedene, Combe Hill, Keinton Mandeville Somerton, TA11 6DY

To book an appointment call or text ...

07889 857289

Email: osteopath@btconnect.com • www.andrew-knight.co.uk

Summer Sale NOW ON Autumn stock now arriving ...

 Great Plains  In Town  Pomodoro

7 High Street, Castle Cary, BA7 7AN  01963 351352 www.needfulthings.uk.com

EYES RIGHT OPTICIANS St. Audries Station Road, Gillingham Tel: 01747 831010

3 Market Place Sturminster Newton

Tel: 01258 473992 LOW PRICES AND QUALITY SERVICE

*30% OFF spectacles applies when choosing any frame from our £75 range or above. Excludes “free spare pair / prescription sunglasses” offer.

Pick up a leaflet or ask our staff for full offer details.

THE VISITOR September 2014 27

In and around HAM HILL

The Muddled Man

The Muddled Man at West Chinnock is a traditional, family run country pub.

A free house they offer three traditional West Country ales including Teignworthy and Yeovil Ales which change regularly.

Draught ciders include Burrow Hill and Thatchers Gold.

They offer traditional pub food which includes delicious steaks, homemade curries and fresh fish on a Friday from West Bay. Traditional Sunday roasts with a choice of meats are popular and booking is advised.

The local cricket team and football team meet after matches at the inn and regularly hold fund raising nights.

There are two ensuite letting bedrooms (twins) and a pretty beer garden. Skittles are played regularly and the skittle alley is available for functions, catering up to 100 for a buffet or 70 sit down (menu to suit). Food is served daily and they are open all day Friday and Saturday.

Mick, Jean and Garry look forward to welcoming you.

The Prince of Wales

The Prince of Wales is situated at the top of Ham Hill with stunning views.

The Inn is open all day every day and is extremely popular with walkers and dog owners. It is a dog friendly pub. As a freehouse they offer a good choice of cask ales and local ciders to

accompany their tasty menu. In addition to breakfasts the main menu is served from 12 noon every day with daily specials on offer. They offer good, tasty, home-cooked food and a good range of ice-creams and sorbets.

They are now licensed to hold marriage ceremonies and civil partnerships. The attractive hamstone chapel with its vaulted ceiling can hold up to 40 guests and for those who prefer the outdoors – Amy’s Garden is also available for ceremonies.

Wedding Menus are bespoke, tailored to suit customers’ personal requirements.

HAM HILL rises to 426 feet above sea level and is a historic site of national importance protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. So it’s hard to imagine that the hill was once under water. Admittedly that was some 170 million years ago, so the experts say, when a warm shallow sea covered most of central southern England and dinosaurs roamed the earth. But the evidence is there to see in the honey-coloured stone that has been quarried from Ham Hill for centuries; stone formed from compressed pieces of broken seashells, sand and clay on the sea floor. Its colour often fools people into thinking it is sandstone but it isn’t – it’s limestone that gets its distinctive colour from iron compounds in the rock. It seems likely that the

Ham Hill Heritage Trail

Saturday 6th September, 11am – 3pm

Complete the trail that will take you through Ham Hill from its creation several million years ago to the present day.

Interactive activities along the way.

Start and finish point Ranger Centre and Roundhouse at the plateau fields. Suggested donation £1 to Friends of Ham Hill towards future events in the park.

The MUDDLED

MAN

Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to

Lower Street, West Chinnock

Romans were the first people to quarry the hamstone.

The villages around the hill probably began as settlements in Anglo Saxon times, for all are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 and all grew during the Norman and medieval periods utilising this honey-coloured stone. The quarries expanded greatly from medieval times to the 19th centuries and by 1880 were employing more than 200 men. The Masons Arms in nearby Odcombe stands as a reminder of the time when the quarries were a major source of local employment, and in those days the Prince of Wales public house on the top of the hill was a popular haunt of the workers – nowadays it is well-patronised by thirsty and hungry visitors.

So the uneven landscape of the hill is largely man-made, not only by centuries of quarrying but also by the construction of defences.

Montacute Service Station for fuel sales and provisions.

The waters that once covered the hill had receded long before the Durotriges tribe made it their main northern settlement in the Iron Age around 2,000 years ago.

It is one of the largest surviving Iron Age hill forts in Europe, its extensive views making it an ideal military vantage point, and the remains of the defensive ditches and ramparts can be seen today. After the Romans invaded they occupied the hill fort, built the Fosse Way across the flat land below and created an important new township at Ilchester.

Some of Visitorland’s finest historic buildings were constructed of hamstone, among them Montacute House, Barrington Court, Brympton D’Evercy and Sherborne Abbey, but it was also much used for village churches, inns and cottages. Take a leisurely stroll through any of the hamstone villages around the foot of the hill – Lower Odcombe, Montacute, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Norton-subHamdon, Chiselborough and the Chinnocks – to delight in the sight of hamstone buildings in beautiful countryside. They are at the heart of scenic walking country and the Ordnance Survey ‘Explorer’ map 129 (Yeovil and Sherborne) shows many miles of public footpaths; the three adjoining parishes of Norton-subHamdon, Chiselborough and West Chinnock together are crisscrossed by no less than 18 miles of paths providing countless opportunities for circular walks of different lengths. Some of the

MONTACUTE SERVICE STATION

(P. L. Warry & Sons) Montacute. Tel (01935) 822271

MURCO Fuels Quality Used Car Sales

NEW HOMEMADE CURRY MENU AVAILABLE Sunday Lunch £7.95 – Choice of Roast

Fresh Fish Day Friday with Homemade Beer Batter

Steak Special – Two 8oz Rump Steaks £16.50 Sunday to Thursday

★ ATTRACTIVE BEER GARDENS ★

Daily Specials • Real Ale • Skittle Alley • Accommodation

Tel: 01935 881235

28 THE VISITOR September 2014

O P DA EN YS

General Store & Shop: groceries, newspapers, flowers, bread, sweets, drinks, etc.

OPEN Mon - Fri 6 -7.30, Sat 6 - 6.30, Sun 9 - 5

OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY

www.themuddledman.co.uk

A charming country inn serving home cooked fayre lunchtime & evening

7

8.30am – 11.00pm

Food Served: 12.00noon – 9.00pm Monday – Thursday 12.00noon – 10.00pm Friday & Saturday • 12.00noon – 8.00pm Sunday

SEPTEMBER

Saturday 6th: HELP FOR HEROES CAKE SALE 11.30-ish Sunday 14th: TOM TOOMEY 3.00pm – 6.00pm Sunday 21st: FUN QUIZ 8.00pm MINI BREAKFAST Monday – Friday 9.00am – 11.00am FULL BREAKFAST Saturday and Sunday 9.30am – 11.00am  Licensed for Weddings & Civil Ceremonies 

Ham Hill, STOKE SUB HAMDON, TA14 6RW Tel: 01935 822848 • www.princeofwaleshamhill.co.uk

In and around HAM HILL

paths around Norton are fitted with broad kissing gates instead of stiles, making them accessible to the physically less-able.

Look north from the war memorial on the top of Ham Hill and a large village can be seen on the other side of the old Roman road, now the busy A303.

This is Martock, which has grown to embrace the hamlets of Hurst, Bower Hinton, Stapleton, Highway and Coat and is now home to more than 5,000 people.

Most of the new houses and bungalows on the outskirts are of reconstituted stone, but almost all the buildings in the historic centre of the village are of mellow hamstone. Especially worth a look is the Treasurer’s House opposite the church, reputedly the oldest inhabited dwelling in Visitorland.

It dates from 1226 when Bishop Jocelin of Bath gave the patronage and half the income of the church to the Treasurers of Wells Cathedral. Rebuilding of the Great Hall was completed in 1293 and the kitchen wing was added in the 15th century. The house has been in the care of the National Trust since 1971 and is occupied by tenants, but the hall and kitchen are open to the public on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays from 2.00pm till 5.00pm until the end of September.

Martock’s hamstone parish church is ancient and impressive – the earliest part is the 13th century east wall and window.

Most of the rest was rebuilt in the 15th and early 16th century, including replacement of the central tower by a new one at the west end and the erection of a new nave, chapels and clerestory.

The most stunning feature of the rebuilding is the magnificent richly-carved roof, dating from 1513, which was originally

The

painted in striking colours.

Churches in most of the other Ham Hill villages are similarly old and interesting – Montacute’s church, much extended and rebuilt down the centuries, contains some surviving fragments of the late 12th century original including the chancel arch, and Stoke-sub-Hamdon’s unspoilt church retains much of its original Norman stonework and can be found in East Stoke.

Norton-sub-Hamdon’s 15th century church, often described as a miniature cathedral, is built on the site of an earlier Norman church of which only the porch remains, and Chiselborough’s attractive old church is unusual in having a handsome spire on its central tower. Most of the village pubs also contain some fine examples of the stonemasons’ craft, notably the Fleur de Lis in Stoke-sub-Hamdon, the Cat Head at Chiselborough and the Lord Nelson in Norton-sub-Hamdon, an attractive 17th century inn which, despite extensive renovations, is still full of character.

Nowadays Ham Hill is a country park extending to around 400 acres, over 100 of them purchased by South Somerset District Council some 15 years ago with the help of funding from the National Lottery and English Heritage. The entire park is managed by the council by agreement with the various landowners and has consistently received the Government’s Green Flag award for being especially well managed and maintained, welcoming and safe. And it still has working quarries producing the hamstone that is essential for the repair and renovation of historic local buildings.

Roger Richards.

Lord Nelson Rectory Lane

Norton Sub Hamdon

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

GOOD FOOD – GOOD BEER – GREAT ATMOSPHERE

PAELLA & SANGRIA £12

Thursday Evenings Special throughout September ...

Traditional ★ Meat Only ★ Fish Only ★ Vegetarian

Sunday 24th August: Annual Charity Bike Ride ... in aid of British Heart Foundation

Saturday 6th September: The Intruders Sunday 7th September: Pub Quiz by Helen Hawke ... in aid of Phoenix Voices Choir

Saturday 20th September: Flatland Boogie Band Sunday 28th September: No Fixed Abode (3.30pm) MID-WEEK LUNCHTIME SPECIAL

Tel: 01935 881473

2 Courses for only £8 Monday – Friday Lunchtime

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

GLUTEN ES H FREE DISBLE AVAILA

www.thelordnelson.biz

The Lord Nelson

Helen and Mark have successfully run The Lord Nelson at Norton Sub Hamdon for the past 6 years and have recently extended their tenancy for another three years and would like to thank all their regulars for their continued support.

The Nelson plays a key role in the community with a full programme of events including regular live music, fund raising events such as the forthcoming annual charity bike ride, quizzes and Movie Nites.

They have an excellent reputation for food with an ever changing menu including gluten free dishes – currently running is a delicious sangria and paella evening every Thursday throughout September. The skittle alley/function room has recently been redecorated and has a new floor. It is ideal for coffee mornings and meetings as well as celebrations. With good weather the patio areas both front and back are popular. There is always a good pint and an excellent choice of wines – plus seasonal treats such as Pimms and Prosecco.

Why not pop in and enjoy an Elderflower Twinkle – elderflower and Prosecco!!

Rob Margetts

Rob Margetts Carpet & Flooring in Stoke Sub Hamdon has been established since 1986. Rob offers a full range of carpets, vinyls, laminates, Karndean flooring and solid wood floors.

Carpets start from just £7.99

per square metre. The best seller by far is the hardwearing 80/20 twist.

A free ‘at home’ library service is available where the customer can choose their carpet in the comfort of their own home from a wide range of samples. This is particularly useful if you are trying to match the carpet with existing colourways.

Rob Margetts Carpet & Flooring undertake both domestic and commercial premises including residential homes.

A family run business, Rob is assisted by his nephew Dave. For a friendly and efficient service give them a call.

Chirpy Cottage

Chirpy Cottage is based in Stokesub-Hamdon, near Yeovil, specialising in gluten/wheat free products. They have devised a pastry which works wonderfully and tastes great. Many customers have commented that it is the best gluten-free pastry they have tasted! Realising there is little on the market for people to buy ‘on the go’; they provide pies, pasties, quiches, tarts and cakes etc. to do just that. For busy people, they offer ready meals which can be eaten fresh, or frozen until required. They also cater for events, private/commercial, where an element of gluten-free is required e.g. Christenings, birthdays and funerals.

The Visitor

can be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

ROB MARGETTS Carpet & Flooring Ltd

For All Your Flooring Requirements ...

Carpets – Vinyls – Wood – Laminate Prompt and Friendly Service

2 High Street, Stoke-Sub-Hamdon, TA14 6PP

Tel: 01935 825505 • Fax: 01935 829390 sales@rmcarpets.co.uk • www.rmcarpets.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2014 29

CATASH INN

Pub

BEER FESTIVAL

BEER & SKITTLES

Craig welcomes you to the

North Cadbury • BA22 7DH A delightful country inn ...

Bank Holiday

Sat 23rd – Mon 25th Aug

25 Real Ales 15 Ciders

Come and join in the fun!

LIVE MUSIC

Sat 23rd ... from 2pm

Relax in our attractive Beer Gardens ***********************

Delicious Homecooked Food served daily lunchtimes and evenings

The

Pages

P. A. BAXTER

BARELY A DAY GOES BY without a news report telling us about how alcohol is dangerous; the whole country is becoming addicted to binge drinking; things have gone to wrack and ruin and we’re all going to hell in a handcart. Really? I don’t think so, but let’s look at the facts. Last month we reported the decrease in alcohol consumption over the years, now let’s see about the ‘safe limits’.

Where did they come from? Before we discuss that, how about the individual; you and me. Surely we are different in the amounts we can or should drink? I certainly know that as I get older my consumption and tolerance to quantity has become lower. Yet others of my age seem to be able to carry on consuming the same amount. What about height and weight, body mass etc. – should we factor these things in to the equation? The answer is … nobody knows. The reference to the ‘safe limits’ thing, based on a unit being ten millilitres of ethyl alcohol (the amount the ‘average’ healthy adult can break down in one hour) will fall down immediately as clearly none of us are actually Mister or Missus Average! In the late 1980’s we were told by the Health Education Authority and Alcohol Concern that us blokes should not exceed 21 units a week and ladies 14. Interestingly, only five years earlier the Royal College of Physicians along with the British Medical Journal had advised that it was 51 units for a man. Yes that’s right, FIFTY-ONE! So why was there the massive reduction, bearing in mind there was no

Vinny tries out his vocal cords at The Unicorn Hotel at Somerton

Traditional Sunday Carvery bookings advised

Separate Dining Area

Skittle Alley/Function Room available for private functions ***********************

ACCOMMODATION We have 3 excellent rooms to let reasonable rates call for details

01963 440248

30 THE VISITOR September 2014

Kings Arms — THE —

Thornford • 01935 872294

Full Menu served Monday – Saturday, all home cooked using locally sourced meats!

We also have Special Nights

Tuesday: Homemade Pie Night 2 for £10  Wednesday: Steak Night 2 for £15 Thursday: Homemade Curry Night 2 for £12  Friday: Fish & Chip Night 2 for £12

Sunday Roast Lunch

1 Course £7.95 • 2 Courses £9.95 • 3 Courses £11.95 • Plus Compact Evening Menu

Live Music with The Fat Marrow Blues Band on Friday 5th September from 8.30pm

Bookings advisable: 01935 872294

further ‘research’? I’ve no idea, and neither have any of the aforementioned authorities, for as Richard Smith (British Medical Journal Deputy Editor) who had come up with these new ‘safe limits’ has since admitted “We just pulled them out of the air.” To admit this does absolutely no good to their credence as an authority.

Indeed, once this sort of thing has been admitted how can we ever look to them for reliable evidence about anything?

Looking back to the time I first started enjoying beer, I have to admit that we laugh at some of our times of over-indulgence. How many of us have done this I wonder? The answer I am sure would be ‘quite a few’ for surely it is part of life, even if we have to learn the hard way with a sore head and an empty wallet. Did this make me a ‘binge-drinker’ according to modern-day thinking?

Well yes it does, for now, even if you too like up to three or four pints in one night (i.e. when like me you’re out skittling and even if you may not touch a drop for the rest of the week) then you too will fall into that category. Frankly I do not see this as a way of tackling any health problems but merely an attack on someone’s liberty to enjoy something they have earned

– and paid for with their labours.

Well; smoking has gone the same way as cock-fighting and bearbaiting, so for the ‘anti-everything’ brigade, beer-drinking was next!

(This subject will be discussed more in future months).

Recently after a night out shortcircuit racing near Taunton we took the old A303 back toward home, avoiding the Ilminster bypass with the sole intention of visiting the ’The Volunteer’ the only pub in Seavington St Michael.

It’s been a little while since we last visited, mainly as it is some way off the beaten track for us, but as always we were made welcome by mine hosts Colin and Ruth, and also had the bonus of being able to discuss the ins and outs of the brewing industry with Colin as he is, of course, the brewer for their very own Brewery – ‘Windy’. They certainly have a nice little selection of ales, and whilst the one we really wanted to try was not available (the ‘Oatmeal stout’) there were two extremely nice yet completely contrasting ales that suited our tastes. Being that I was at the wheel that night, my consumption was minimal, but we have pledged to return when we shall also partake in the fare on offer. The menu, whilst not huge, is reasonably priced and was

Russell & Diane welcome you to — THE —

Lamb & Lark

Limington nr. Ilchester • BA22 8EG Tel: 01935 840368 DELICIOUS FOOD SERVED 6 DAYS A WEEK LUNCHTIME AND EVENING Saturday 6th September

CHARITY NIGHT In aid of Childrens Hospice South West  LIVE MUSIC 

... with “Capricorn Country” Playing Rock ‘n’Roll, Country, 50s, 60s & Pop

 HOG ROAST   BUCKING BRONCO  ... come and try!!!

Tickets £10 (to include Hog Roast) from us or Carol 01935 881510

Saturday 13 September th

12noon – 5pm

10 Cider Houses displaying their produce

Talk by Julian Temperley Somerset Cider Brandy Company

Tasting Sessions Live Music Hog Roast

TheCortonQueens Arms Denham, SHERBORNE Somerset, DT9 4LR Email: relax@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com Tel: 01963 220317

Thursday 18th September CURRY NIGHT 4 – 5 Curries, help yourself, £10.95 pp Sunday 28th September QUIZ NIGHT Recommences (In aid of Air Ambulance)

SUNDAY CARVERY

Adults £8.95 • Children 3 – 10 years old £5.95 Children under 3 years old £3.25

We are also pleased to offer ...

South West Hog Roast & Outside Bars

... ideal for Weddings, Parties, Corporate Events

A PROFESSIONAL HOG SPIT ROAST USING QUALITY MEAT COOKED AND CARVED BY A PROFESSIONAL CHEF!

Hog Roast accompanied by Fresh Bread Rolls, Apple Sauce, and Stuffing Fresh Salads and Vegetarian Alternatives available ✽ WAITRESSING STAFF CAN BE PROVIDED ✽ Also Full Bar Facilities to make the catering service complete!

To discuss your requirements or to make a booking

Tel: 07785 550086 / 01935 840368

Visit our website for full details: www.lambandlark.co.uk

FUNCTION ROOM * OUTSIDE BARS & HOG ROASTS * WEDDINGS & PRIVATE PARTIES WELCOME

FAMILIES WELCOME • ENCLOSED BEER GARDEN

THE VISITOR September 2014 31

They Say

That with a copious quantity of awards from the Castle Cary & Ansford Flower & Veg Show, Paul Sherrell may know an artichoke from a zucchini but when it comes to chickens and cats - that’s a different story.

That staff training now includes the delicate art of making Pimms at Ward & Sibley in Yeovil.

That Castle Cary coiffeur, Mr Malcolm Teasy Weasy of Yeovil would like it to be known that along with his shampoos, conditioners and tints he also has an assortment of muscles.

That the turkish delight of Sturminster Newton’s Myra Hanson was to feed the dolphins.

That full marks go to the ‘brains’ behind the recent resurfacing of the town centre roads in Castle Cary, for although residents must have found the evening work noisy and inconvenient, it must surely have helped the town’s shopkeepers by keeping the roads open during the day.

That the canoeing, ukuleleplaying-painter Mike Worth of Stalbridge will have to make do with the crossword for a little while.

That during the recent commemorative celebrations the ladies at Harts of Crewkerne did a splendid job administering war time teas.

That with NHS waiting times always being criticised, credit where credit is due, goes to the excellent service provided at the Treatment Centre, Shepton Mallet.

That the Mayor of Bradford Abbas, Mr Graham White, has been emptying the drains looking for his chain of office.

That rumour has it John Hamblin of Yeovil is setting up in competition with Rymans for the supply of ballpoint pens, after a recent boys day out.

That congratulations and all good wishes for the future goes to Carmen (nee White) formerly of Queen Camel.

That Laura’s popular pilates class at Stanchester School was recently attended by a suprise guest - which caused a stir amongst the ladies ... and gent.

That John Penny of Bradford Abbas was seen actually cleaning his car and singing 'Happy Birthday to you' at the same time.

32 THE VISITOR September 2014

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

“If you say run, I'll run with you If you say hide, we'll hide Because my love for you Would break my heart in two”

FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink. Last month Jed from West Coker remembered that it was Summer “Love Sensation” by The Bay City Rollers  .

Some sad news to start this month.

Dave Jones the former Yeovil Town Goalkeeper has passed away. Dave wore the No 1 Shirt during the 60’s when the town cemented their place as F.A. Cup giant killers. He lived in the town for many years with his wife and two daughters before moving back to his native Swansea. When he did occasionally visit the town he would pop into the pub and always asked after everyone. He will be missed.

Last month the local RSPCA held their annual fund raiser here at The Quick. This time Barry Paull brought his Elvis Show along and over £1000 of much needed funds were raised.

Well done Marie and the gang.

Paul and Jayne became Mr & Mrs Francis last month and held a super party here to celebrate. A great band, some nice food, a few drinks and loads of nice friends made for a cracking evening. Congratulations to you both.

Emma Snell hit the big 4-Oh in style with a dress to impress party here at the top of the hill. All the guys looked smart and the girls all looked very glamorous, especially Emma who was the belle of the ball. Happy birthday Emma!

Tony and Mary became Mr & Mrs Farmer with a super evening do here at The Quicksilver. Some great music, a Casino with Black Jack and a Croupier, some nice food and loads of good friends made for a great party well done you two!

On the last Friday of August Mutter Slater will be here playing his stuff in the bar with his new band and new album of fantastic blues rock: one not to miss. On the first Friday of September we have Karaoke with Addy. On the 12th we have John Ramon live in the bar, and on the 19th the pub’s favourite Mr D’Arcy will be here. On the 26th Finnian McGurk will bring his own brand of fabulous celtic rock, and on Saturday the 27th The Fat Marrow Blues Band will be here strutting their stuff.

All the gigs in September are FREE ... so get your face in the place  TOOT TOOT!!!

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

The

Pub Pages

excellent value as I recall, which to our amazement was almost two years since our last time of eating here. Tempus fugit. One little thing I remember at ‘The Volly’ from last time is that to enable one to sample the beers on offer, a small quantity of each can be served on a tray, for a nominal sum, before ordering a pint. This is actually only the second pub where we have ever seen this done, the other one being a pub in Dublin, Ireland!

Whilst there are a significant and increasing number of decent proper lagers available to us all, it is of no surprise that the most heavily advertised are the ones that are the most consumed. It may have taken some years to get the whole idea of something too cold and too fizzy into the psyche of John Bull, but it is not difficult to

NO CHANGE

spot those who have fallen for those advertisements. Most significantly, it appears that the product must be drunk from a bottle. Now why should this be so? To look trendy by the display of the label perhaps?

To show off to everyone that you easily fall for commercials?

Irrespective of the reasons, clearly this is not particularly hygienic, the bottles having possibly been stored in warehouses where rats could urinate over them, (a welldocumented cause of Weil’s disease). No, but it is a great idea as the manufacturer (I can’t bring myself to call them ‘brewers’) would quite possibly not want the contents poured into a glass where it looks both thin and uninteresting. Perhaps it tastes better straight from the bottle then? Er... no, for drinking it in this way does not permit the olfactory organs (where we get the sense of smell) to fully come into play. So dare we suggest that the consumers of this product do not even taste what they are drinking?

Hmmm, suggest that to your mates and see the reaction!

Taking a look at more than one beer book in my collection that refers to this product it states ‘sells well throughout the world despite having virtually no taste’ and ‘a way of delivering alcohol to the

In an ever changing world ... it’s good to know there are some things you can rely on to stay the same!

- THE -

TWO BREWERS

Leigh Road, Street

Same - ownership for the past 20 years Same - great home cooked food Same - warm welcome Same - excellent accomodation

Visiting friends or relations, or shopping in Clarks Village?

CALL IN FOR MORE OF THE SAME! Check out website: www.thetwobrewers.co.uk

Tel: 01458 442421

brain without the intervention of taste’. Yes, I’m talking about ‘Bud’ which has proliferated over the last few years in Great Britain.

Looking into the workings of ones sense of smell and chemoreceptors it is amazing that 80% of our taste is reliant on the smell. How can we demonstrate this? Well, we all know that when we have a heavy cold we are unable to smell things properly – or taste them. To prove this, do a blindfold test on yourself with a cup of tea and a cup of coffee, hold your nose whilst drinking each one and see how difficult it is to tell the difference!

A recent article I was reading, openly challenged any prolific lager drinker to tell the difference between a whole bunch of popular lagers – simply because the writer believes that there is so little difference between the majority of these products. We are all different, and as we said earlier there is no Mister and Missus Average. Indeed, our sense of smell varies tremendously, which is why some of the pretentious wine drinkers (and yes, there are some pretentious beer drinkers too) may well be able to get ‘a hint of grapefruit, lychees, baby’s nappies, tram brake blocks and a twist of pencil shavings’ that many of us cannot! A relative who is involved

in specialist services has to have his sense of smell checked, (I am told they use butane in varying volumes). Needless to say, there can be a wide variation in the results. Recently, one of the scientists carrying out a test remarked to his client ‘Don’t bother with any bottles of wine that cost more than four quid’. I don’t think that needs an explanation!

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

IN HAM HILL COUNTRY enjoy stunning views whilst enjoying a pint at The Prince of Wales ... regular live music at The Fleur de Lis, Stoke sub Hamdon ...

Thursday night sangria and paella evenings proving so popular at The Lord Nelson, Norton sub Hamdon they have been extended to run throughout September ... Garry at The Muddled Man is holding the fort whilst mater and pater enjoy a Baltic cruise ... interesting tipples at The New Farm Restaurant, Over Stratton including an orange flavoured gin and a local Lopen rosé wine ... the charity

WYNDHAM ARMS Rob & Lin welcome you to the

KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK SOMERSET TA12 6AT

bookcase at The Royal Oak, has raised £8,000 so bring in your holiday reading and help the cause ... and in Bradford Abbas everyone is welcome to the Garden Fun Day being held at The Rose & Crown on Bank Holiday Saturday.

Limbering up in Limington ... if you fancy yourself as a rodeo

rider - don’t miss the Charity Night at The Lamb & Lark, who have recently won accolades for their hanging baskets ...

Sunday Roast is excellent value at The Unicorn, Somerton ... the Friday fish night is very popular at The Rose & Crown, East Lambrook ... don’t be put off by the diversion signs - enjoy a glass

“A Charming Country Inn”

ROYAL OAK Over Stratton, South Petherton — THE —

Relax on our pretty patio ... and sample our new summer menu

2 Course LUNCHES £8.50 – Tuesday to Saturday FRESH FISH NIGHT Friday 29th August (Last Friday of Each Month)

QUIZ NIGHT

Sunday 7th September Everyone Welcome

Bookings Tel: 01460 240906

Excellent Food • Warm Welcome • Convivial Atmosphere

Montague Inn

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

Shepton Montague nr. Bruton Tel: 01749 813213

Delicious Homecooked Food Served lunchtimes and evenings

Traditional Sunday Roasts Choice of meats

CAMRA Rated Beers and Ciders

— LIVE MUSIC —

Saturday 23rd August, 9pm Start

Ray Jones Band

COMING SOON ...

Sky Sports

Function Room & Skittle Alley available for private hire/ parties

Tel: 01935 823239

Please visit us on our website:

www.wyndhamarms.com

Saturday 30th August

Pop-up Music Festival from 3pm - free entry

Thursday 11th September

Curry Night

all you can eat - £15

Saturday 18th October

Trafalgar Night Dinner black tie - ticket only

THE VISITOR September 2014 33

The

Pub Pages

of Pimms in the walled gardens of The Nags Head, Martock... at The Wyndham Arms in Kingsbury Episcopi you can be sure of a good pint ... and welcome to Andy and Sally at The Two Olde Brewers, Shaftesbury, which has recently been refurbished.

Cantering on to Corton Denham where there are five delicious cocktails to sample at

The Queens Arms during their Rock the Ridge R & B Bank Holiday Party on the 25th ... the re-opening of The Mildmay Arms, Queen Camel has proven popular ... good luck and farewell to Lou and Dean at The Marston Inn, Marston Magna ... enjoy a Sunday Carvery at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury ...

Steak Night every Monday Night at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague ... Lobster Special planned for Friday 29th and Saturday 30th August at Truffles Brasserie in Bruton, please book in advance and confirm you require lobster as there is always a finite supply ... at The Natterjack Inn, Evercreech Junction hand pulled John Lawrence cider is now on draught ... and finally, it was nice to see Mark from The Manor House, Ditcheat at the Viz offices recently.

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

House & Home

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

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

New owners Tracey & Kevin welcome you to the NOW O P SUNDA EN YS

HOTEL West Street • SOMERTON • TA11 7PR Traditional Sunday Roast £ 7.95 Daily Food Special 1 Course £ 7.95 * 2 Courses £9.95 Pool Players required for Tuesday Night League (World Rules) Kev’s Karaoke / Disco Every Friday Night in the newly decorated Skittle Bar * 9pm start Forthcoming Entertainment ...

Friday 17th October DAYTONA ROCK free admission 6 ENSUiTE LETTiNg ROOMS – Free WiFi Skittle Alley available for Private Parties / Celebrations The Unicorn Hotel

Tel: 01458 272101

34 THE VISITOR September 2014

Roger Powell of Town & Country Aerials in Gillingham is pictured with the prize vouchers for Orchard Park Garden Centre. The winners of the Orchard Park Voucher Competition in last month’s Visitor were: J. Edwards of Curry Rivel (£50); K. Crate of Yeovil (£30) and D. Hooper of Fovant (£20).

When lightning strikes ...

Chris Stott, Managing Director of Wessex Fire & Security considers the effects of thunderstorms

IT SEEMS TO ME that thunder storms are far more frequent these days than they ever were in the past. This could be a statement of fact. It might however simply be that for fire and security companies these ‘extreme’ weather events often have an aftermath.

As most fire and intruder

alarm systems operate at low voltage, they can be particularly susceptible to power surge damage. And lightning does not need to directly strike a property in order to damage system control equipment. Electrical energy, introduced by a local lighting strike, can travel surprising distances through the ground, along pipes or telephone cables to damage control equipment and cabling.

Modern fire and intruder systems are built to be much

House & Home

more surge tolerant than some of the older equipment.

Nevertheless at Wessex Fire and Security we still receive an increase in call outs whenever thunderstorms are active within the region. Increasingly we are fitting surge protection devices to new and existing installations to reduce the risk of damage from such events. And we now encourage all customers to consider making this relatively low cost investment to protect their fire and security equipment.

For further information or advice on this or any other fire and security matters please do not hesitate to contact Wessex Fire and Security on 01747 852258.

Thinking of replacing your windows?

As the nights draw in and the temperature starts to drop, you may be thinking about replacing your wndows and doors to make your home cosier and to prevent precious heat escaping.

Most replacement windows, doors and roof lights come within the scope of the Building Regulations. Anyone who installs replacement windows or doors must comply with current Building Regulation standards The reason for this is to reduce energy loss in line with Government policy. The Building Regulations have controlled glazing in new buildings for many years but this represents only a very small percentage of the total building stock. It is essential to improve the performance of the much larger number of existing buildings if we are to meet increasingly stringent national and global energy saving targets.

When selling your property, your purchaser's solicitors will ask for evidence that any

ACF WINDOWS

ANDY FELTHAM

UPVC REPLACEMENT WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES, WOODEN FRAMED WINDOWS, FASCIA BOARDS, CLADDING, GUTTERING, ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS ETC.

The Old Well House Shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GILLINGHAM, Dorset SP8 5HX Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344

replacement glazing installed since April 2002 complies with the Building Regulations. There are currently two ways to prove compliance:A certificate showing that the

Unit 11, Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JX

Tel: 01747 826714 / 826721 www.townandcountryaerials.co.uk

We have some AMAZING money saving Sky deals!

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CATCH UP TV SERVICES REQUIRE A BROADBAND CONNECTION

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MULTI-SCREEN DOMESTIC SET-UP Sky in more than one room We are a local independent firm with our own expert installers. We can help with: ✔ No Unsightly Cables ✔ Listed Buildings ✔ Conservation Areas

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Your local Sky expert

THE VISITOR September 2014 35

work has been done by an installer who is registered with FENSA or a similar body.

A certificate from the Local Authority Building Control stating that the installation has been approved under the Building Regulations.

House & Home

Harriet Sandys 2014 Summer Bazaar

Don’t forget that Harriet Sandys is opening The Barn at Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4PB over the forthcoming Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday 23rd Monday 25th August from 2pm 5pm daily. Here you will find Harriet’s stunning new collection of soft furnishings, carved wood furniture and table lamps.

K TOC ES V I ENS EXT

SU

ES IT

Made-to-measure pine furniture in a range of finishes - including painted. Just one of many lines now available at the new Fit & Furnish Showrooms in Yeovil where the stock is changing constantly - suites, beds, mattresses and much more.

NEW FURNITURE STORE

NOW OPEN Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm

Beautiful Beds – Terrific Tables Stunning Sofas – Comfy Chairs Desirable Dressers STOCK CHANGING REGULARLY! ... even furniture for your office and garden!

FREE PARKING

DS BE

The old Vincent’s Showroom, Market Street, Yeovil, BA20 1HZ  01935 412811 • Email: info@fitandfurnish.co.uk www.fitandfurnish.co.uk

36 THE VISITOR September 2014

Kempf Conservation

South Somerset is blessed with a vast number of beautiful villages and all of these villages are full of wonderful old stone buildings, ranging from homely cottages to rambling farmhouses, grand manor houses, splendid country churches and old schoolrooms.

Kempf Conservation is a father and son team who love and tend the built landscape of our local communities. Dan and Michael Kempf have spent their working lives caring for and conserving these wonderful old buildings which offer so much inspiration and history. Kempf Conservation operates largely in and around the South Somerset area and together they have over 40 years experience in conserving old stone buildings.

In the hands of a skilled stone conservator, even stone features which are in a state of extreme decay, can be repaired and renewed without extensive stone replacement. Mullion windows are a case in point. These can be badly split and suffering from stone decay and may look completely beyond repair to the untrained eye, but using the right lime-based techniques even the worst decayed stone feature can be given a new lease of life that

House & Home

will ensure its survival for another 100 years or more. To see the transformation of a stone feature from a ruined state to a fully healthy state can be

workshop

★ Loan TV whilst being repaired

★ Estimates ★ Bench or field service

FULL RANGE OF PANASONIC TVS IN STOCK FOR SALE ... DO CALL IN

H.R. Hodge

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 1pm

38 St. James Street South Petherton TA13 5BW  01460 240645

sound, then carrying out what they call their 'slurry consolidation technique' (reintroducing lime into the pores of the stone), followed by

Need a new conservatory?

Replacement windows or doors? contact

TURNER WINDOWS SOMERTON LTD – of –

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

FULL RANGE OF Replacement Windows Replacement Doors Conservatories Fascia / Soffitt / Guttering Secondary Glazing

SERVICES ...

■ Window Repairs ■ Handles / Hinges ■ Misted Up Units ■ Garage Doors ■ Blinds / Fly Screens

QUALITY PRODUCTS All products adhere to as endorsed by celebrity world snooker champion Steve Davis PERSONAL SERVICE No faceless sales team: Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to the showrooms

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

REPAIR SERVICE

★ All makes of TV repaired ★ On the premises

extremely rewarding and almost unbelievable.

Repairing decayed features usually involves cleaning back the decay to where the stone is

PVC-U Aluminium

FENSA Registered Company sales@turnerwindows.co.uk www.turnerwindows.co.uk

SEWING MACHINE SERVICE CENTRE Repairs & Servicing To All Makes - Domestic & Industrial Collection and Delivery Available

Embroidery Engineering Services

Suppliers of Computerised Embroidery Machines

Telephone: 01963 350068 • Mobile: 07947 725315 Email: robert_churches@hotmail.com UNIT 8, TORBAY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE CASTLE CARY BA7 7DW

Say you saw it in The Visitor

“This installation is the best we have ever had. You did what it said on the tin.

Your men started on time, your team of two (Jason and Alec) were courteous ... nothing was too much trouble ... took great care and left the house clean and tidy.

We employ an assortment of tradesmen and there are only two or three that we would endorse. Welcome to the club.” – David & Pam Watts (February 2013) Just one of many testimonials from satisfied customers ★ See online for further personal recommendations

Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd

Call 01458 272555

Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB Today for a FREE no obligation quote

Cane Furniture The largest selection in the West Country!

SHOWROOM CLEARANCE  Ex display suites – greatly reduced

CANE FURNITURE

ESTABLISHED OVER 60 YEARS

Open 7 Days: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm, Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm

In store at HASKINS RETAIL CENTRE SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 5AX • 01749 343414

THE VISITOR September 2014 37

Give your home a new look ...

House & Home

Roger Oates

Stair Runners by Roger Oates

Stylish flat weave, carefully designed, beautifully woven and finished to a high standard

ENGINEERED OAK Oiled Single Plank Flooring ... just £34.99 per square metre

Wood and Laminates

◆ Luxury Vinyl Tiles – Amtico – Karndean – Moduleo ◆ Natural Flooring – Sisal – Coir ◆ Tiles – Ceramic Wall & Floor Tile Showroom

BLINDS

Blinds

Roman – Roller – Venetian – Wood

★ Free Estimate ★ Free Measuring ★ Professional Fitting by our own Expert Fitters ★ Friendly and Personal Service ★ Competitive Prices “Just nice people to do business with”

SJH CARPETS

Southgate Road, Wincanton  01963 824418

Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 1pm Wincanton

Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178

38 THE VISITOR September 2014

(closed Wednesday)

Popular with customers at SJH Carpets & Flooring in Wincanton is the Roger Oates range of stair runners.

House & Home

rebuilding the lost and damaged areas of the stone with specially designed lime mortars, to take the place of the decayed material that has had to be removed. This approach combined with all the more commonly recognised skills and techniques such as stone replacement, doweling or repointing, means that when it comes to decayed stonework, there is very little that cannot be

repaired. The techniques are designed to be very sensitive and sympathetic to old stone buildings, preserving as much of the original stonework as possible, rather than removing and replacing. This includes stone mullion windows and surrounds, inglenooks, fireplaces, Blue Lias flagstone floors, porches, portico's and doorways, chimneys, stone steps and

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / Metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / Moving / Disposal Above or Below Ground Tanks

Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 office@halletsfarm.fsnet.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk

R. A. WICKS Ltd.

KITCHENS AND HOUSE RENOVATIONS We project manage from start to finish!

Stylish kitchens to suit you

■ Contemporary or traditional ■ Wide choice of finishes including – high gloss, wood and painted ■ Free planning ■ Free design service

now have a DOOR “ We LIBRARY with over

MORE CHOICE!

Supply and Installation of Wood Burning and Multifuel Stoves  Own Professional Fitters  HETAS REGISTERED See our Showrooms

100 styles and finishes ... so you can choose the finish you desire.

”

Clapper Hay, Church Street, MERRIOTT, nr. CREWKERNE, TA16 5PR  01460 74612 visit our website www.wicksheating.co.uk

Within SJH Carpets

The Tythings Commercial Centre Southgate Road, WINCANTON

Professionally Made To Measure Curtains, Blinds etc.

Exciting New Fabric Ranges now available.

Clarke & Clarke - Porter & Stone - Yorke Interiors ILIV - Art of the Loom - Prestigious Textiles Fibre Naturelle - and more!

Curtain Poles and Tracks, Haberdashery Ribbons, Threads, Cushions, Remnants, Linings etc.

Melody 07883 089 333

OPEN: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9.00am - 4.00pm (Thursday - Closed) Friday 9.00am - 3.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 12.30pm

 Malcolm Helyar: Proprietor.

NEW Minerva solid worktops – the alternative to granite

New Kitchen? House Renovation?

We project manage from start to finish!

■ Plan and design ■ Undertake the construction work ■ Install and fit units / appliances ■ Electrics ■ Plumbing ■ Plastering ■ Complete on time – to a high standard

COCK & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS Established Since1957

 Specialists in renovation and restoration of older properties

 Extensions and alterations undertaken

 Specialists in barn conversions

 Purpose built joinery, doors, windows, etc.

All Work Guaranteed

Tel: NORTH CADBURY (01963) 440931 Yard Office adj. Orchard Leigh, Long Street Galhampton, Yeovil, Somerset

SHERBORNE KITCHENS & HOUSE RENOVATIONS

The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN Call into our showrooms today

Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel

Tel: 01935 817111

Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com www.sherbornekitchens.com THE VISITOR September 2014 39

pathways. Kempf Conservation also carry out stone cleaning, lime plastering, lime rendering, stone and brick walling, conserving iron railings, metal casement windows

House & Home

and leaded lights. The lime system is also extremely good for alleviating damp problems in old buildings.

Contact them on 07502 400986

or email: kempfconservation@ yahoo.co.uk

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Don’t despair - we repair ...

TVs - Radios - Recorders - Hi-fi - CD Players etc.

We can REPAIR most makes and models in our ON-THE-PREMISES WORKSHOP

Before and after - work by Kempf Conservation.

And if it can’t be repaired ...

Don’t be blue - we also sell new!

Our fully stocked showroom offers the Very Latest TVs & Audio from Panasonic Free local delivery, installation, and disposal of old appliance

Greenhill, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 4EW  01935 813451

“Where the customer comes first”

40 THE VISITOR September 2014

5 YEAR WARRANTY ON MANY ITEMS

Parquet Flooring

Wooden floors are a popular choice for today’s modern homes and parquet flooring looks great no matter what the age of your property. Timber contrasting in colour and grain, such as oak, walnut, cherry, lime, pine and maple can be used, and in the more expensive kinds the richly coloured mahogany and other tropical hardwoods are also used.

While not technically a wood, bamboo is also a popular material for modern floors and today, modern cold adhesives are used to fix the blocks as opposed to the hot bitumen used in earlier years.

Parquet floors are usually long lasting and require little or no maintenance. They may be brushed clean, and mopped when necessary. It is not recommended that upright vacuum cleaners be used on them as they can scratch and wear the surface, as grit particles become embedded in the spinning brushes.

House & Home

Parquet floors are often found in bedrooms and hallways. They are considered better than regular floor tiles since they feel warmer underfoot. However, they

do little to absorb sounds such as walking, vacuum cleaning and television, which can cause problems in multi-occupancy dwellings.

Continuing the Progress of the New Build at Ditcheat

by Country Build SW Ltd

Month 2 - The month of July saw implementation of the block and beams and the interior walls being constructed ready to take the outside skin of the stone. Next month the scaffold will be erected ready for the joists.

From Conception to Completion With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS — All works completed by our experienced & reliable team

Services Include but not limited to: Project Management New Build Planning Loft Conversions Carpentry Roofing Ground Works Refurbishment Renovation Commercial Property Maintenance Joinery

MOTORING

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I HAVE WRITTEN in the past of the many changes in motoring laws which to a greater or lesser degree affect our hobby of using and looking after our old vehicles.

You may recall that after the 1st October you have to retain the vehicles excise licence when selling any vehicle. You must then submit a claim for the amount of unused excise duty.

After purchasing another vehicle you must then re-tax that vehicle, which might be free (Pre-1974 registered) or by paying the appropriate fee for that vehicle.

Many see this as a ploy by the government to get more money as few people will have the patience to wait until the tax expires before deciding to change a vehicle. Just to add to the confusion after the 1st October there will be no actual paper excise disc, the paid duty will be recorded on the DVLA computer.

Now we have to watch the insurance companies to avoid another dirty trick. It now seems that when you sell a vehicle you must immediately notify your insurance company. A recent case shows that a seller got rid of a vehicle but did not notify his company. The new owner did not insure the vehicle immediately and was soon involved in a serious collision. As the only valid insurance on that vehicle was held by the previous keeper the

claims were held against that insurance and the unlucky seller lost his good reputation and his ‘No Claims Bonus’. This of course could amount to quite a large sum of money. It defies logic to me, so be warned and make sure that when you sell or buy any vehicle that the paperwork is dealt with promptly.

The glorious summer of 2014 rolls on and events have thrived in the summer sunshine. At two events recently I have noticed that some period dress has been worn and commensurate with the age of vehicle they were using.

What fun this is and how nice that these people have taken the trouble to do so. Now I always advocate the wearing of good protective clothing, but why not use period protective clothing. It need not be the genuine article but of a likeness that it can be recognised as from that period in time. My picture this month illustrates this point. It shows William Webb from Stourton Caundle standing next to his very original Panther machine.

William wears the high laceup brown boots, white trousers and brown leather coat. Helmets must be worn these days but a

GLIDEROL GARAGE DOORS

All garage doors are different, so as a roller door specialist, (I don’t replace windows, etc.) I can survey, quote and install to your requirements and make the most of your garage opening, as generally no frame is necessary. With the option of automated operation with remote control, a top quality garage door need only be a phone call away.

G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414

All aspects of Building & Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken

Contact us for a free estimate

(01935) 823346

www.countrybuild.co.uk info@countrybuild.co.uk THE VISITOR September 2014 41

MOTORING ... at your service

flat cap would complete the ensemble. So come on the rest of us, what have we got to offer, join in the fun. Watch this space for more pictures on this subject.

Club life continues unabated during September, the Somerset Section has a Natter Night for its club night on the 4th. On the 6th (Saturday) they have the Codgers and Dodgers from Watchfield and on the 14th they have the West Somerset Run from Norton Fitzwarren. Lastly they have their Cornish Weekend from the 26th to the 29th. Probably too late booking now for this year but well worth considering for next year.

The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section has a talk for its club night on the 8th (Travels in a 1934 Austin 7 Special – sounds very interesting), and on the 28th will be the Wessex Autumn Leaves Run (does this mean Autumn is with us already). The Dorset Section are equally busy with the Lunch Meet on the 3rd, club night on the 10th is the Annual General Meeting, followed on the 21st by the Last of the Summer Wine Run and on the 24th by the Mid Week Run from the Halsey Arms. To round things off they have the usual Breakfast Meet at West Stour on the 27th.

Always plenty of activities

going on but as usual if you need more information then ring 01935-872528.

Last month many people were touched by the story of Roger Stow whom we arranged to have a ride on a motorcycle once more.

I am glad to report that he is still doing well and since our escapade he has had a flight in a RV-7 and also an old friend will be taking him to the Goodwood Revival Meeting in September. A few chance remarks and you never know what might happen.

I still have no progress to report on the restoration of my Rover.

However as I write, the roof timbers are being installed on our new workshop, garage and store.

Jolly splendid it looks too and the workmen are making a super job of it. In about two to three months I hope to be entrenched in these new facilities and revelling in the fact that I can once more work in comfort with all my tools and workshop machines around me.

It will also be nice to have all our toys back in one place, under one roof, and be available for use. The new building has already acquired the name of ‘The Hann’s Toy Cupboard’. A flurry of activity will surely result but I have such a lot of maintenance to catch up on that I am afraid the Rover will

RIDGEWAY GARAGE Family run business - established over 40 Years

For quality used cars at affordable prices - PART EXCHANGE WELCOME -

CLEAN CARS BOUGHT FOR CASH - LICENSED CREDIT BROKER

Kingsland Road, SHEPTON MALLET • Tel: 01749 342938

still have to wait a while. At least I should be fully installed before the winter arrives.

In the meantime I must go to a few sales, car boots, junk shops and the like as I have a new shopping list to attend to. I need some black boots, gaiters, plus fours or proper riding breeches, tweed hacking jacket, leather gauntlets and bowler hat or flat cap. All must be generously proportioned.

Rod Hann.

Westover Garage Langport

Westover Garage has been established for seven years and is run by business partners Gary Webb and David Huntley, who are both local to the area. They were quite badly affected by the floods earlier this year and would like to thank their loyal customers for their support during this time. The purpose built workshop is fully equipped including the latest diagnostic equipment. There are seven members of staff all of whom are

qualified mechanics. So whether you want your air conditioning fixed, a service or a MOT book in today.

Westover also offer a vehicle recovery service. Open from 7am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, 7am - 11am Saturday.

Rich’s Auto Services

Richard Cross has opened Rich’s Auto Services on the Torbay Road Trading Estate. Richard has over 17 years experience as a motor mechanic (working for many years at One to One Motor Repairs). Rich has a fully equipped workshop complete with diagnostic equipment and can undertake servicing and repairs on most makes of cars. MOTs by appointment and air conditioning service by prior arrangement.

Ridgeway Garage

If you are looking for a reliable secondhand car then pop along to Ridgeway Garage, situated on the Ridgeway Estate to the south of the town near Mendip District

Friendly, efficient service for fuel sales, replacement batteries, exhausts and tyres at Phillips Tyres in Castle Cary.

www.ridgeway-garage.com

RICH’S AUTO SERVICES ◆ Servicing and repairs on all makes of car ◆ MOTs by appointment TYRES — EXHAUSTS — BATTERIES OPEN: MONday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday mornings by appointment

Unit 4, Torbay Road Trading Estate Torbay Road, CASTLE CARY, BA7 7DT

 01963 350568

42 THE VISITOR September 2014

Centre Garage, Castle Cary  01963 350243 Specialists in ...

TYRES ✽ BATTERIES ✽ WHEELS ✽ EXHAUSTS Laser Wheel Alignment (Tracking) Computerised Wheel Balance Petrol & Diesel Available

OPENING HOURS Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am – 2.00pm Emergency 24 hour call out available Mobile 07966 221834

MOTORING ... at your service

Council, in Kingsland Road. A family run business established for over 40 years you can be sure of helpful and professional service.

All cars come with a new MOT, a Service, Cam Belt replacement if required and a warranty. Part exchange is welcome, finance is available if required and credit cards are also taken. Should you be looking for a particular make/model of car they will be happy to try and source it for you.

Visit www.ridgeway-garage.com or give them a call. Stock changes regularly.

J & R Autos – Gillingham

J & R Autos of Gillingham have been established since 1989.

They have been at their present location in Brickyard Lane, Gillingham since 1991 – over which time they have built up a good regular client base. Rob Davis, proprietor, has had many years in the trade and specializes in bodywork – so if you have had a bump or a scrape Rob is the person to get your vehicle looking as good as new again!! He is also able to undertake panel beating, spraying, servicing and can arrange for your car to be MOTd. Work is undertaken on most makes of car plus small vans. A courtesy car is available subject to availability. Insurance assessments on request.

Norris Body Repairs

Norris Body Repairs is a familyrun business near Yeovil town centre which carries out car body repairs, paint work, restoration and MOT welding work. Large and small jobs welcome.

If you have an insurance claim you can choose where your car is repaired and Norris Body Repairs offer a friendly alternative to the larger body shops. Richard Norris has over 20 years experience in the industry and will ensure you receive individual attention – together with a free estimate and highly skilled repair.

Norris Body Repairs carry out welding work on vehicles that may have failed their MOT. Call Mary Norris to book your car in for repair today or call in for a free estimate.

Bodywork MOTs Welding Servicing Repairs

call ROB DAVIS

01747 825511

Unit 6 Brickyard Lane New Road, Gillingham SP8 4JL

includes repairs, servicing, engine tuning and MOT testing which includes class 1V, and Class V11 light Vans. They look forward to welcoming customers old and new.

Also operating from the same premises is Eclipse Custom Campers, converting VW Transporter T4 and T5 vehicles.

Yeovil Auto Tuning

Due to expansion, Yeovil Auto Tuning has recently moved to larger premises. The new premises is situated at 9 Oxford Road, on the Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil – easily located with plenty of parking.

Richard White, proprietor of Langport Motor Company with the turbo vac. The hand car wash offers five different programmes costing from just £1. With the addition of the turbo vac and the car mat wash wet/dry – there is everything you need to make your vehicle clean.

There are two bays with ample room and they can even accommodate lorries. Find them tucked away on the Westover Trading Estate.

LANGPORT MOTOR COMPANY Proprietor: RICHARD WHITE

Quality servicing & repairs on all makes of car

J&R AUTOS

    

Yeovil Auto Tuning is a family run business, established for 32 years. Proprietor Colin Frost runs the business with his wife Anita and their three experienced mechanics Jamie, Ross and Matthew.

They will continue to offer their full range of services which

CITROËN & PEUGEOT SPECIALISTS

TWO CAR WASH BAYS open 24 hours a day 365 days a year – with heated water Plus ...

Turbo Hoover & Car Mat Wash

– the most powerful in the area

WESTOVER TRADING ESTATE LANGPORT, TA10 9RB

Tel: 01458 251100 • Email: langportmotors@btconnect.com Open Monday – Friday 8am – 5.30pm • Saturday Appointments Only

NORRIS BODY REPAIRS LTD ■ Insurance Claims ■ Private Jobs ■ Restorations ■ Resprays ■ Welding Work

24 Hour Recovery: 07792 380275

South Street • YEOVIL • BA20 1QQ Tel: 01935 411095

Email: norrisbodyrepairs@gmail.com • Fax: 01935 473119

Yeovil Auto Tuning

ESTABLISHED OVER 30 YEARS ● Repairs and Servicing Specialists ● MOT Testing – Classes IV and VII ● Engine Tuning ● Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes ● Competitive Rates ● Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service ● Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans ● Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW and Audi Group) EXTENSIVE NEW PREMISES NOW AT ...

9 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

THE VISITOR September 2014 43

GARDENING

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming

Seasons changing!

Orchard Park

AS THE SUMMER moves effortlessly into autumn there is still a lot of pleasure to be had out in the garden, and traditionally gardeners looked to the autumn as a good time of year to get things sorted out and new plants established before the winter. Modern gardeners have

the luxury of being able to plant all year round which takes some of the pressure off, but it is still the time to get summer work completed while plants are still active. So, we look to create colour to last until the frosts come, harvesting the current crops and making sure that there is something still growing to feed

THE DORSET & SOMERSET FENCING & GATE COMPANY All types of fencing supplied and erected No VAT • FREE Survey & Quotation Pressure Treated Material 10 Year Guarantee Fencing the counties for 30 years

Tel: 01935 330095

Kawasaki POWERED BY

£299

BC350K Brushcutter

inc. VAT

 35cc engine

LRH270K Long Reach Hedgecutter

 62cms doublesided blade  27cc engine

£349 inc. VAT

LEE HOLMES

Garden Machinery

15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park SOMERTON

Tel: 01458 274261

www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk

44 THE VISITOR September 2014

the family though the winter and into next spring.

September also means ‘back to school’... but it’s still a great time to get out and about, to visit gardens or go on plant-buying trips, away from the summer holiday crowds. If your family is still at home, make the most of after school to get them outside, blackberrying and letting off steam after being cooped up all day. This is a wonderful time in the natural year. Hedgerows and orchards are heavy with fruit and the wild creatures are busy all around us, getting ready for the harder days to come.

A sure sign that the seasons are changing is the mix of things on sale in the garden centres. We now have our bulbs on sale with the full range of spring flowering daffodils, narcissi, tulips hyacinths and all the less common sorts. And if you want to know the difference between daffodils and narcissi I will let you into the secret ... there is no difference at all! Narcissus (plural: narcissi) is the botanical term and daffodil is the common name. In practice we use the first for special varieties and the species and daffodils to describe the everyday garden daffs with

for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, Sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221

OSBORNE TREE SERVICES

... all aspects of tree surgery FULLY INSURED • NATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN ARB ● Felling, pruning and shaping ● Crown reductions ● Tree planting ● Hedge trimming, garden clearance and maintenance Telephone: 07896 813934 osbornetreeservices@hotmail.co.uk

to G R A S S & ro u n d sca r BRU g h g u G ro 0160 pla ifying, orch S H C U T T 5 IN 5 T 9 A 5 V n a rd s, 6 ING t A 7 a T 0 t io O el: R ns, pa Tel: 0 eds. T 7659 playing fie ddocks, seed b 55016 lds et 0 c. lift h hig d an MI NI DI GG IN G 0160 dumper. Tel: 07659 55 ANING MOSS H C L E ng etc.

T PROB A P ti spiking, L P A T I O chanical poin coring, EMS scarify e m Tel: 076 in and 0160 59 5501 g 659 55 60 Tel: 07

QUALITY FENCING PANELS AND TIMBER C L A N V I L L E S A W M I L L S LT D Clanville • Castle Car y (on the B3153)

Monday to Thursday - 8am to 5pm Friday - 8am to 4pm

Castle Cary (01963) 350881

large golden or mixed colour trumpets. Gardeners and horticulturists have their own language, not jargon, but it adds to the whole growing experience to know what things are really called.

The other question so often asked is why have you got bulbs in the middle of summer? It’s all in the timing. The bulbs are actually lifted when the foliage dies down in May, then they are sorted and graded and prepared for sale. We could probably have them on sale in July but that really would be too early. The planting time extends up to the end of November for daffodils and the end of December for tulips, but these are the very latest dates

GARDENING

and I certainly recommend buying your bulbs as early as possible if you want a good choice rather than the leftovers.

Plant of the Month

September is also a time when some border plants come into their own, just when many of your summer flowering plants are past their prime. A classic late flowerer is the pretty Japanese Anemone, a favourite with gardeners - and with Gardener’s World photographer, Jason Ingram, who says, ‘Japanese anemones are extremely photogenic flowers which brighten up the garden in latesummer or autumn, producing simple saucers in white and

various shades of pink. They are a 'must have' border plant for the Autumn and put on a fantastic display in the period where most gardens are starting to look tired and over. I love that their beauty adds a whole new dimension of colour and texture to my garden.’

Japanese Anemones, also known as ‘Windflowers’ with their flowers held high above the foliage, can be grown in sun or shade and are good for lighting

up a dark corner of the garden.

They do like a well-drained soil and often spread by themselves, creating new clumps that can be lifted and planted elsewhere.

A really good companion to the anemone would be ornamental grasses such as Pennisetum Villosum (Feathertop), a compact flowering grass (height and spread 60cm). In late summer it produces gorgeous seed heads, covered in delicate bristles. Other

All types of Fencing

• Gates • Trellis • Fence Panels • Tool Sheds • Summer Houses • Garages • Workhouses • Greenhouses • Field Shelters

All Buildings are hand-made at Bourton using Scandinavian Redwood Shiplap Timber.

Bourton, Gillingham on the old A303 Nr. Zeals For Free Survey/Estimate/Brochure

TELEPHONE 01747 840752

QUALIT Y MOWERS we have an extensive range in ... ★ CUB CADET ride-on mowers

Alan Dodge BSc

from £1400 inc. 3 Year Warranty

★ HAYTER pedestrian

mowers from just £190

EXPERT ADVICE

Call in and see our full range

On the premises SERVICING

Unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 4NB Tel: 01749 343881

Now available 5 TONNE LOAD DELIVERIES by small lorry

NOW is the time to perk up your paths and dress up your driveways!

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD R. W. PRINCE LTD

Suppliers of Quality Recycled Aggregates

NEW

We can deliver to your area inc. Castle Cary, Bruton, Sherborne, Wincanton etc.

For advice or information ring Tim or Heidi or call in and see us

Top Soil – Crushed Concrete – Road Planings All Types of Limestone Aggregates Sand and Gravel – Decorative Aggregates Asphalt Plant / Asphalt Products – Hot Box Hire Grab Lorries – Tipper Hire – Muckaway

New Asphalt Plant Installed

20mm Base • 10mm Top Coats • 6mm Top Coats Lime Stone or Hard

Small Loads Collected or Delivered 7am – 4pm Daily • Monday – Friday ✴ Road Sweeper Hire ✴

Please call to enquire if we can help you with anything

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD. Podimore, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8JG Tel: 01935 849250 • Fax: 01935 849099 Mobile: 07973 844145

THE VISITOR September 2014 45

good grasses include Chinese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Fontane’) which produces lovely sprays of light brown seed heads in summer. Carex flagellifera, with its arching, evergreen leaves is perfect for container growing. Flowerheads are brown and form at the end long stalks which will trail down over the edge of a pot.

Japanese Anemones - a favourite with Gardener’s World photographer, Jason Ingram.

Suppliers of quality lawn turf Full ground preparation and laying service available

Telephone Somerton 01458 272091 Mobile 07850 310998

Garden Machinery WANTED

GARDENING

Jobs for the Month

Harvest is in full swing and top fruit should be coming on well.

If you can remove any diseased fruit complete with the leaves at this stage then it would be worthwhile to prevent further spread over winter. Diseased material should not go on the compost heap, burning is best and I feel that the benefits of removing diseased material from productive plants out weighs the environmental problems of burning, but that’s just my view.

Runner beans will keep cropping if they are picked over regularly. If you leave beans on for seed at this stage then they will stop producing; same goes for courgettes. Tomatoes seem to have taken a long while to ripen this year and now we are looking at a glut!

Late sown salads crops should be alright for a while, but brassicas will need attention to prevent damage from caterpillars, aphid and pigeons; close-woven netting covers are ideal. Why do so many things like brassicas when children don’t?!

Main crop potatoes should be lifted and stored dry and frost

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

free to prevent any late slug or wire worm damage. Go over the crop before bagging them up as a rotten potato will affect others.

Same with onions and there are few things that smell worse than a rotting onion. If you are thinking of planting overwintering onion sets and garlic the ground should be prepared now.

From a garden housekeeping perspective, now is the perfect time to move or plant evergreen and coniferous plants. It’s also the best time to lay a new turf lawn. It will establish very quickly, but do keep an eye on it during the winter. You can also sow grass seed now for a new lawn or patch up an existing one. Also, don’t forget to plant indoor hyacinth bulbs in pots now if you want a display for the end of year celebrations.

The other useful task is sorting out the herbaceous plants – these do get overgrown and September is the ideal month to lift split and replant. That also allows you to pull out any perennial weeds that have established themselves amongst your plants.

A final thought, we take a lot

out of our soils so mustn’t be mean in returning goodness to help the next crop. Green manures to dig in this winter or next spring are good, even better well rotted manure, mushroom compost, spent hops and of course the contents of your own, carefully organised, well tended compost heap! (Don’t tell me you haven’t got one! No excuse these days.)

National Garden Scheme Garden of the Month September - Midney Gardens

September, with its fruits, seeds and beautiful colours is a particularly lovely time of year at Midney Gardens with the developing autumn colours, swathes of grasses and layers of planting creating some lovely vistas and a real feeling of abundance.

At Midney Gardens you can see something different – a garden which contains innovative planting combinations and really accessible design ideas which could be used in any garden. Laid out as a series of interlinked areas it combines beautiful colour themes, interesting features and quirky touches!

In addition to the various areas in the plantsman’s garden, the kitchen garden is both productive and beautiful and the new woodland walk and wildlife pond

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TREE PLANTING

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

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

Established 1975

Mowers • Ride-On Tractors Strimmers • Hedge Trimmers Chainsaws, etc.

ANY CONDITION

Tel: 07974 303792 TREE SURGERY SPECIALISTS Crown Thinning and Reduction Dead and Dangerous Trees Removed New Trees Supplied and Planted Tree Stumps Removed Approved Contractor to Somerset County Council and Local Councils

Phone B. P. MONTGOMERY for a FREE Estimate Tel: 01963 240532 Mobile: 07970 397248 Email: brutontreecare@hotmail.com

46 THE VISITOR September 2014

Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4RE

Turn into Broad Robin off B3081, continue past Mellowes Residential Home: Thorngrove is next on right

 01747 822242 Email: thorngrove.staff@scope.org.uk Autumn Bedding and Spring Bulbs now available

BRING IN YOUR HANGING BASKET FOR REFILLING or book a place to make your own in our ...

HANGING BASKET WORKSHOPS Wednesday 8th – Friday 10th October, 2pm – 4.30pm each day

Hire Trees & Planters for Weddings and other special events ring or visit our nursery for details Thorngrove Garden Centre was set up by Scope.

Scope exists to make this country a place where disabled people have the same opportunities as everyone else. Until then, we’ll be here.

OPEN: 9am – 5pm EVERY DAY including SUNDAY

are really establishing well, providing an area of natural interest and beauty. Midney Gardens is increasingly becoming known as a wildlife friendly garden attracting a wide variety of insects, butterflies, moths and

the end bit...

Paperchase

THE ANNUAL rate of inflation is currently around 2.5% as measured by the Retail Price Index. I mention it because the price of weekday editions of the Western Daily Press rose from 55p to 60p on 16th September 2013 and increased again from 60p to 70p on 14th July. So in the 11 months from the beginning of last September to the end of this July the price of the newspaper has risen by more than 27%.

Announcing the latest increase, editor Ian Mean wrote that the price of the Saturday issue is unchanged at £1.20 – hardly a generous gesture since the last increase, on 21st September 2013, amounted to 20% and came after a whopping 25% increase in the previous December. For the inflation-busting cost of the weekday editions readers are promised ‘new and refreshed sections’ and ‘subscription packages which will enable you to buy the Western Daily Press through your retailer at a preferential rate’. Does this sound like a bargain to you?

I often enjoy the ‘Quotes of the Day’ column in the ‘Register’ section near the back of the paper. The 23rd July issue had quotes from new employment minister Esther McVey, TV wildlife presenter Kate Humble, broadcaster Vanessa Feltz and veteran actress Joan Collins amongst others and included a photo of Owen Patterson to give a little light relief in the slab of text. The 24th July issue again had quotes from the same four ladies, saying exactly the same things as before – but this time with a photo of Ms Humble. The paper’s usual excuse for this sort of slipshod recycling of page content is to blame a ‘technical error’ but somehow it doesn’t ring true on this occasion. For

birds, all beautiful to see in this garden - truly in harmony with its surroundings.

Facilities: Plants for sale, tea, coffee, home-made cakes and cream teas. Not suitable for wheelchair access.

Open: Friday 19th Sept, from 11:00am to 5:00pm. Admission: £3.50, child free.

Other Openings: The plant nursery and the tearoom are open between 11:00am and 5:00pm on Thursdays, Fridays,

Saturdays and Sundays until the 26th October. Midney Gardens, Mill Lane, Midney, Somerton, TA11 7HR, telephone: 01458 274250. To see more gardens open for the NGS, visit: www.ngs.org.uk

someone had gone to the trouble of finding a different photo, writing a caption for it and placing it in a different position in the column. All very strange – but not unusual, for the same thing happened in the issues of 1st and 2nd August. Six quotes were repeated but a different photo was inserted in the column.

Perhaps they should rename the column ‘Quotes of Yesterday’.

A reader recently sent me three howlers from the Western Daily Press. In the 19th July issue a news report informed readers that ‘the death is not believed to be suspicious. The corner has been informed.’ Does this imply that the coroner is round the bend, I wonder. In the same issue the caption to a picture of swans on a local waterway quoted the photographer as saying ‘I don’t recall seeing a mature family of 10 signets with their parents before’. Hardly surprising, as a signet is a seal used instead of a signature and swans usually swim with their cygnets, not their seals. And in the 30th July issue a man who shot a video of a bottlenose dolphin in the River Severn reportedly said ‘it was an incredible site as I’ve never seen a dolphin in the wild’. The site,

the Severn, was probably not as incredible as the sight of the dolphin.

Here are two more that I spotted. In the 9th August issue, reporting a list of 50 vital skills every father should have, the man who carried out the study is quoted as saying ‘we know that not all will be able to perfect all 50 in this study – it would be quite a feet to do so and shouldn’t be seen as a bad thing’.

Presumably to encourage them to inch towards the feat. And in the 11th August issue, in a story about a planning controversy in Wedmore, the objectors were reportedly saying that ‘the scheme also contrives the Village Design Statement which says new development should not obscure views of the countryside’.

No doubt the developer will contrive to alter his plan so it doesn’t contravene anything.

On this evidence it seems that the newspaper’s wordsmiths need to sharpen their skills and consult a dictionary from time to time.

And a reference book. A story in the 15th July issue headlined ‘All change at Yeovil’s Pen Mill railway station over the years’ claimed that the station was opened ‘as part of the Wilts,

Somerset and Weymouth route on 2nd February 1854’. All the railway history books I’ve read state it didn’t open until 1st September 1856, so where did the reporter get his misinformation?

In recent weeks the Western Gazette has contained its own clutch of howlers, some of which have been sent to me by an eagleeyed reader. Sadly I’m close to my word limit so they will have to wait for next month’s column because I need to do penance for a slip in July’s column in which I wrote ‘or simply a failure the check the facts before writing the report’. I hold my hands up in shame at my failure to check those words or, as we say in the trade, proofread them.

Chronicler.

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.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 8

‘E.L.O. - Electric Light Orchestra’ Neil Diamond Anastasia ‘Life’s Been Good’ - Joe Walsh Jeffrey Osborne ‘Limahl’ ‘Abbey Road’ ‘Bon Jovi’ ‘Windmills of Your Mind’ – Noel Harrison 10. ‘Lady’ Bonus Question Simon and Garfunkel

Extra Bonus Question ‘…News’

Question Impossible It’s the late Johnny Bristol, who cowrote the song and produced this version. He ‘made Ms Ross feel more comfortable’ and the engineer accidentally recorded him as well, and it was decided to release the version as it was.

Solution to August

Sudoku

THE VISITOR September 2014 47

Classified Ads

Fires/Chimneys



Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential.

For a Box Number please add £2.

Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.

PHONE - a - FIRM SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.

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

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

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

Passport Photographs

PASSPORTS - passports - passports - also studio sittings and weddings.

Any time to suit you. Easy parking.

Tel: Graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

Services

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN RUBBISH CLEARED, old sheds / oubuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

OVEN CLEANING SERVICE – amazing results with our unique cleaning system.

Low prices. Tel: 01278 785492.

Storage

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

BRUTON STORAGE – 40ft container for storage £140 pcm, with lights and electric plus utilities. Call Devi 07973 342047.

Personal

POLISH LADY, 56, outgoing, GSOH, enjoys travel, music, history, seeks gentleman for relationship. Call: 07832 903753.

LADY, 60, slim, cultured, animal-lover, enjoys walking, art, cinema. Seeks male / female friendship socialising. Box No. 6.

GENT 60, outgoing, G.S.O.H., 5ft 9ins, non-smoker, solvent, no ties. O.H.A.C. Likes meals out, holidays, gardening, places of interest. Seeks special female friendship / relationship. Photo please.

Box No. 5.

ACTIVE, honest, semi-retired gent, 72 years, OHAC, GSOH, no ties, seeks lady 65 – 75 years for friendship / relationship.

Phone: 01935 476506.

GENT 69, enjoys travel, National Trust, seaside, theatre, music, dancing. Seeks lady, non-smoker, easy going. Tel: 01458 440094.

LADY, mid 70s, seeks company of a caring homely gent. I enjoy coach trips and days out. Tel: 01935 412854.

Wanted

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.

DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables.

Daves Tools - Tel: 01935 428975 CLASSICAL LPs, also rock and pop, also singles and EPs. Whole collections. Ring: 07807 010408.

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.

Holidays

CARAVAN TO LET, Chisel Vista, Weymouth.

Sleeps six. Mains gas and electric. Prices start from £200 a week. For more information please ring 07544 310025.

T.V. Rental

T.V. RENTAL - long or short term, domestic & commercial, up to 50inch plasma. H. R. Hodge. Tel: 01460 240645.

Commercial Property

BRUTON – TO LET 1200 square feet units available from £400 pcm, plus utilities and insurance. Call Devi 07973 342047.

Opportunity

BUBBLY and POSITIVE people wanted for part time or full time opportunity working from home. Interested in making a positive change? Email: joy_enterprises.love@yahoo.co.uk

Mobile Bars / Catering

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

Say you saw it in The Visitor

48 THE VISITOR September 2014

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

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: info@tda.uk.com

Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

TV Aerials

DAVE PARMITER AERIALS TV AERIAL SERVICE SATELLITE / VIDEO SYSTEMS CCTV SYSTEMS - PERSONAL SERVICE

Tel: YEOVIL (01935) 422088 or mobile 07850 405433 NO CALL-OUT CHARGE

Maintenance and Repairs

U CAN’T I CAN PAUL CHEDZOY Property & Garden Maintenance

Decorating, Gardening, Building and General D.I.Y.

 01935 472669

... or

07884 345511

email: ucantican07@aol.com

Trading for over 7 years CUSTOMER REFERENCES AVAILABLE

• • • • •

• • • •

SERVICES

Exterior and interior decorating Gutters cleared and cleaned High level painting and cleaning Conservatories washed down Removal of disused sky dishes and cabling Repointing of stone and brickwork Patios cleaned Many other jobs undertaken No V.A.T. competitive rates for seniors

Contact JAMES CADE on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM

Transport & Storage

The key to all your storage needs!

Electrical Contractors

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

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

Plumbing & Heating

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

Roofing

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

SLATING & TILING SPECIALISTS

Specialists in period and listed properties

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

26 Stembridge, nr. Kingsbury, Martock TA12 6BN Telephone: 01460 240229 • Mobile: 07917 411961

Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 For all your roofing requirements

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

Bourton Roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing. uPvC Fascias  Guttering FREE EST IM AT ES

 01747 840064

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

Services

GOOD POTATOES

Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor Gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices

Anchor Hill Service Station WINCANTON 01963 32609

Clock Repairs

CLOCK REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

October Deadline Monday 15th September BOOK EARLY

34 White Road, MERE, Nr. Warminster Wiltshire, BA12 6EX

Email: mead208@btinternet.com

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

« Picture framing « Restoration « Large selection of prints & paintings « Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

THIS 4 cms x 1 column SPACE COSTS £23.04 per month

inclusive of VAT ... which is equivalent to just ... £5.32 per week!

SHOULDN’T YOU BE ADVERTISING HERE?

Tel: 01963 351256

Denture Repairs

Are you a denture wearer?

De to m nture smi ake y s o le a gain u !

Denture repairs while you wait ...

Terry New Denture Clinic

01458 210039

Home visits a speciality

DENTURE REPAIRS

While You Wait Collection & Delivery Denture Advice Mr. C. Dunn

Registered Dental Technician

01749 812585

www.dunndental.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2014 49

PHONE - a - FIRM

Oven Cleaning

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd

Mister Oven

Independent Oven Cleaners

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264

www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk

www.misteroven.co.uk

Builders

Dave Hoddinott FULLY QUALIFIED BUILDER - ESTABLISHED 1973

• Renovations & Extensions

FRIENDLY & • Roofing + Carpentry RELIABLE • Plumbing & Heating SERVICE

• Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling • Painting & Decorating • Electrical Contracting

Prize Crossword No. 335 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG to arrive by Monday 15th September.

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.

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 01935 584384 • www.outlookblinds.co.uk

Communications

WESTLINE COMMUNICATIONS

Business Telecom Specialist For all your telecom needs For free, friendly and professional advice call ...

John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

Your Advert HERE ...

THIS 5 cms x 2 column SPACE COSTS

£57.60 per month inclusive of VAT ... which is equivalent to just £13.29 per week!

Shouldn’t you be advertising HERE?

Tel: 01963 351256

50 THE VISITOR September 2014

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FREE QUOTE  FREE FITTING

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PERFECT FIT BLINDS

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100s of Fabrics & Designs - Verticles from £49 (Max 6' x 6')

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24 hour emergency call out • email: hoddaz@hotmail.com

Domestic - Commercial - Venetian - Roman - Pleated

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Blinds

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Competitive Prices ✳ No VAT ✳ No job too big or too small

 01963 440256 / 07974 844682

2

Dublin prawn is returned around tented area. [6] ‘Ard put behind military vehicle is a great mug. [7] Inclusion, clone change. Sure? [9] Stay at the crease with staff of office. [5] Degree you may find in marshy area. [5] Child dozer asking a ransom. [9] Maximum velocity having lost 16th letter anticipated champion.

[3,4] Besides, surrounding returning secretary, to slip away. [6] If coming back as company, a complete failure. [6] I’d steal confused small parts. [7] Quip lower? Firm action against.

[9] Some strip a gang following folkreligion. [5] Wardrobe seems to hold fat in excess. [5] Darts (thrown into sand) with criteria. [9] Offer a bet in the old days’ arrangement. [3,4] Flowering plants with masters losing a thousand! [6]

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I hear the dean lives here based on ten. [6] Quack journalist took evasive action. [6] Of late, Φ collecting stamps. [9] Six-footer poems surround small coin on the other side of the world.

[9] Instrumentalists have nothing on holy man hidden in French wood.

[7] Negation of lie Dan muddled up. [6] Trig ratios around American skull cavities. [7] Sick hoot owls (only firsts and thirds in train). [6] Kill no East Anglian ducks, at first to make dough. [5] “S”, ergo a bit prickly. [5]

Solution to Crossword 334

Down 1.

2.

3.

4.

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6.

Confectionary powder set about herb. [7] Monarchy (not Monday in short) like a bow. [5] Initially people run one day under cloudy evening red sky making things. [9] Red tale about foot-controller. [7] Short aluminium ban put up as mathematical symbol. [5] I ain’t past arranging appetizers!

[9]

THE WINNER OF OUR AUGUST CROSSWORD was ...

Iain Rowland of Misterton, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at the Bower Hinton Farm Shop, Bower Hinton.

Home is where the hearth is Designed to suit your requirements

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

Curl up this winter in front of a Woodburner

Over 300 fires & stoves on display – including working models Contemporary and traditional styles Full installation service

SANDPITS

AGA & RAYBURN stockists • A warm welcome awaits

HEATING & HOME STORE

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport Tel: 01458 251476 www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

CITY DECORATING SUPPLIES PAINT SPECIALISTS of WELLS

Perfect Paints ...

to cover all surfaces Farrow & Ball Mylands of London Paints Little Greene

Wide range – All finishes – All colours Paint mixed while you wait 4 Sizes – Plus Tester Pots

Wonderful Wallpapers

browse at your leisure in our wallpaper library

Marvellous Moulding

to add a professional finish to any job

Call today to discuss your personal requirements

Professional and friendly advice

OPEN: Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm Saturday 9am – 4pm Deliveries available throughout UK & Europe

No.1 The Old Chapel, Union Street WELLS, Somerset, BA5 2PU 01749 677299 Email orders: citydecoratingsupplies@gmail.com

NEXT TO CAR PARK

Sparkford, Yeovil Somerset, BA22 7LH 01963 440414 www.sparkford.com