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Your local independent monthly journal 01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Issue 397 December 2016
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In Passing...
‘I
REMEMBER, I remember the house where I was born.’ Actually I don’t. I was born many years ago in a nursing home many miles from Visitorland, but what I do remember clearly from my schooldays is the opening verse of Thomas Hood’s poem with its ‘little window where the sun came peeping in at morn’. Just as I can remember and quote vast chunks of the Anglican Liturgy, absorbed through constant childhood hearing but redundant now that so many churches have ditched the beauty and mystery of the language in favour of trite, happyclappy, conversational English. And just as I often catch myself reciting a Siegfried Sassoon sonnet learnt as a teenager as I amble home from the pub ‘alone, in silence, at a certain time of night’. So why can’t I remember where I left my spectacles not ten minutes ago? Or what it was I’ve just come upstairs to get? Or the birthday of a lifelong friend? My kitchen table is littered with lists of the jobs I must remember to do within the next week or buy when I next go to the shops. I write little notes to remind me that the deep-freeze is on ‘fast freeze’ and the washing machine will be full of clean laundry by the morning, and I use a monthly appointments sheet as an aide-mémoire of where and when I have arranged to do something. Now it’s simply a matter of remembering to consult the kitchen table from time to time, and that’s something I sometimes forget to do. Perhaps this is one of the sad consequences of growing older – although I seem always to have suffered this sort of forgetfulness regarding organisational matters. But I have no problem remembering the significant people, places and events in my life. At any rate, I think I can remember them, and sometimes I’m horrified to find that my memory has been playing tricks and things aren’t quite as I would like to
believe. It was Cyril Connolly, I seem to recall, who described our memories as ‘card indexes consulted and then put back in disorder by authorities whom we do not control’, and I can see what he was getting at. I’m grateful that those mysterious authorities often remind me involuntarily of the passages learnt when I was young, learnt from choice or learnt from hearing them so often, learnt by heart because their sound and sentiment resonated with me. Amidst the contemporary cacophony of techno-jargon, computerspeak and bureaucratic mumbo-jumbo, I hope our Visitorland schools are still reminding children that language can be beautiful and are encouraging them to recite it, learn it by heart and treasure it. It has the potential to bring them great pleasure throughout their lives. NN.
Advertising Deadlines
Christmas / January Issue published Thursday 15th December Deadline Friday 2nd December
NOTE TO ADVERTISERS Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request. We cannot guarantee any specific page or position, but will always do our best to comply with clients’ wishes. ARTWORK Artwork & design by our production department and photographs taken by our photographers are the copyright of The Visitor Ltd.
Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should send uncompressed TIFs, JPEGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than size required, along with a hard copy print-out. For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.
The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.
PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BP
Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag
Proprietor Helen Dunion Accounts, Editorial & Subscriptions Rachel Hancox Production Manager Jeff Farrow Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock © The Visitor Ltd. 2016
(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)
CONTENTS
Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to the time of year
ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 66 BRUTON Late Night Shopping - 5 CASTLE CARY Big Christmas - 7 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE with Competition - 10 CREWKERNE - 44 CROSSWORD - 66 FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK - 30 FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS - 33 GARDENING - 60 HOUSE & HOME - 56 LANGPORT - 19 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 18 LETTERS - 4 LOCAL P.O.s and VILLAGE STORES - 43 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 16 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 5 MOTORING - 24 MUSIC for the MONTH - 18 NOTICE BOARD - 43 PAPERCHASE - 63 PHONE-A-FIRM - 64 PUBS - 53 SHERBORNE - 47 SITUATIONS VACANT - 24 SOMERTON - 25 THEY SAY - 54 WINCANTON - 37 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON
THE VISITOR December 2016 3
Letters To the Editor Cary Comedians Carnival Club
Sir, Many people have asked, ‘why is Cary Comedians not out with their float?’ Sadly, after 39 consecutive years, we could not get insurance cover for a tractor to pull the float we have constructed. Insurance brokers have all told us we no longer can get insurance cover for carnivals for hire tractors. We can get insurance cover if we own a tractor or towing vehicle that complies with a VSO. We now have the arduous task of raising thousands of pounds to buy a towing vehicle compliant with road traffic regulations for carnival use. Every effort will be made prior to next year’s carnivals to fundraise to be able to purchase and own our towing vehicle to secure the necessary insurance. More members and supporters are needed to save our club which has the distinction of being the most successful comic feature club in mid-Somerset for almost
three decades and a leading comic feature club in the Wessex GP carnival circuit and Somerset county circuit. The carnival spirit abounds with the stalwart ‘Cary Comedians’ and we just need more members, whether local or otherwise, to keep our club alive. Gordon Stockman Galhampton Yeovil
Thank You
Sir, As organiser for this year’s Poppy Appeal, I would like to thank all those people who kindly helped me with the collection. They spent many hours, come rain or shine collecting for this very worthy cause. After the many, many collection boxes have been counted I will hopefully be able to let you know the amount raised in the next edition. Again, many thanks to you all. Bridget Laver Poppy Appeal Organiser
A Distorted View?
Sir, I was shocked to read the distorted view of planning in Castle Cary given in your November issue. There was indeed a public inquiry in October relating to two proposed developments of 125 houses + 75 houses off Station Road - which had been turned down at District
Council level. What your article failed to mention was that the District Council with the support of the Town Council has already given planning permission for around 405 houses largely to be built off Station Road. The public Inquiry related to the fact that both Town and District councils took the view that an additional 200 houses without any new employment opportunities or improvements to infrastructure would be too much too soon. At the time of writing the outcome of the Inquiry is still being awaited. The District Council’s current Local Plan has a minimum of 374 new dwellings allocated to Castle Cary to be built before the year 2028 – and although the majority of these have yet to be built, outline planning permission has been given. Your article implied that there was opposition to much needed new housing in the town and that the result would be stagnation. What a shame your writer did not do his homework and instead chose to imply, somewhat snidely, that the Council is opposing progress. It is sad to find bias and ignorance of this sort in a journal reputed for the fairness, accuracy and impartiality of its reporting. Pek Peppin Castle Cary Town Council (Chair of planning) I suggest that Ms Peppin reads the article again. It states clearly that 'a number of planning applications have been submitted' to develop land around Station Road before reporting the news that appeals against just two refusals were being heard at the time of writing. It argues that 'population growth spells good
news for the shop-owners and the town's many organisations' and that 'development on Station Road, if well planned, is unlikely to damage the town's character' while mentioning the oft-heard concern about the road infrastructure's ability to cope with the additional traffic – a concern seemingly of the town council too, although the council is not mentioned in the article. So what made her think that I implied that the council is opposing progress is a mystery to me. And her accusation of bias and ignorance is simply unfounded. Roger Richards.
Yeovil Literary Festival
Sir, I hear so many negative comments about my home town Yeovil, so I thought it was about time that we focused on something positive about the town. I look forward to an event in the town every year; it is called ‘The Yeovil Literary Festival’ which began in Yeovil four years ago. The Yeovil Literary Dinner is the highlight of my year, and this year Jason Goodwin did not disappoint, and with big names like Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Simon Weston, Gok Wan, and far too many others to mention; there was definitely something for everyone. I would like to thank everyone who works so hard throughout the year to make this festival possible. Whoever said that a Literary Festival would not work in Yeovil has been proved wrong as the festival just gets bigger and better every year. The only thing that remains for me to do now is to pencil in the dates for the 2017 Yeovil Literary Festival. Jane Lowery Thatcham Park Yeovil
OLD FASHIONED JUMBLE SALE Saturday 3rd December 10.30am – 3.30pm in The Horse Pond Inn Skittle Alley, CASTLE CARY £1 Entry to include Coffee, Mince Pie and Draw If you have any JUMBLE to donate RING 01963 359596 Proceeds to Alzheimer’s Society and Milbrook Gardens
4 THE VISITOR December 2016
Bruton’s Christmas Evening
Mentioned in
Dispatches
BMV Lions
BMV Lions have arranged for Santa to visit the following towns during December, usually between 5.30pm and 8pm. 1st Wincanton; 2nd Templecombe; 3rd Sainsbury’s Sherborne (finish at 4pm); 3rd Stalbridge East; 4th Morrisons Wincanton (finish 3pm); 4th Child Okeford; 9th Okeford Fitzpaine; 10th Hazelbury & Kingston; 12th Milborne Port East; 13th Marnhull (a); 14th Marnhull (b); 15th Henstridge (a); 16th Sturminster Town.
Panthers Martial Arts Academy gives Yeovil a reason to celebrate
Yeovil has become home to two new world champions thanks to the success enjoyed by young Yeovil based Melissa Rogers, aged 8 and a half and Yeovil's Adam Ridout, aged 23. The occasion was the World Martial Arts Championships in Manchester at Wright Robinson College. Both champions are pupils at Yeovil based Panthers Martial Arts Academy. Melissa Rogers took on her biggest challenge yet to defeat
Two new world champions from Yeovil L-R: Adam Ridout, Melissa Rogers in fighting form with Sensei Kire Antoski from Panthers Martial Arts Academy.
Wednesday 7th December 6pm – 9pm
Around 300 people attended the Remembrance Day ceremony in Mere this year. Wreaths were laid at the Clock Tower including the one pictured here from Mere Beavers. Photo: Graham Russell.
multiple Martial Arts Champion, 9 year old Emilia Tischer from Germany. Her second round saw her claim the WFMC (World Fightsport and Martial Arts) Under 12 Female under 30kg Light Contact World Championship with a unanimous judge's decision. She was applauded for her sportsmanship following the fight when she hugged her opponent and held her hand up in respect. 23 year old Adam Ridout fought German opponent Roman Clausnitzer. Sensei Kire Antoski, owner and chief instructor at Panthers Martial Arts who trained Adam, told how from the start Adam took control of the fight, finishing the 1st round with domination in his favour. At the start of the second round Adam piled on the pressure and by the middle of the round finished the fight with a knock-out (KO), claiming the WFMC World K1 title -80kg. For more information about Panthers Martial Arts Academy visit www.panthersmaa.com or contact Kire Antoski T/: 01935 426 753 (evenings); M/: 07811 283 482 (anytime) or E/: hello@panthersmaa.com
Bruton’s Christmas Shopping Evening
It’s that time of year when Santa makes his annual visit to Bruton. He will be arriving on Wednesday 7th December at 6pm. This year Santa has arranged for his magical Grotto to be hosted in The Sun Inn on Bruton
High Street. The grotto opens at 6.15pm. There will be lots of stalls on the High Street and shops throughout the town will be offering festive delights. Bruton has a number of new stores which have opened recently and are great places to pick up a
Assorted Venetian glass including Murano Quillon House Antiques of Bruton.
Quillon House Antiques 16 H IGH S TREET , B RU TON 01749 812269
17 th / 18 th C. Oak and Country Furniture
Large contemporary sycamore spherical ball
Arms & Armoury Equestrian Paintings Valuations Undertaken Antiques Purchased
Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm
Station Road, Bruton, Somerset
Are pleased to offer Full Class 4 MOT Facilities MOTs • MOT Preparation • Welding Service and Repairs on all makes of Vehicle
TYRES • BATTERIES • EXHAUSTS Contact Proprietor
Tel / Fax: 01749 812992 Mobile: 07976 401432
THE VISITOR December 2016 5
Bruton’s Christmas Evening Wednesday 7th December 6pm – 9pm
Christmas gift. They include vintage clothing, Italian goods, local crafts and a range of other options. St Mary’s Church will be open on Christmas shopping evening for the Christmas Tree Festival. This unmissable display of quirky themed Christmas trees will be
accompanied by (live) enchanting renditions of your favourite Christmas Carols. We hope to see you there!
Bruton Motor Services
Established for over 20 years, Rob Mahoney and his experienced staff at Bruton Motor Services
offer a full servicing and repair service on all makes of cars, vans and light commercials. There is a fully equipped, purpose built MOT bay complete with all the latest diagnostic computer equipment for testing emissions etc. Other services offered include tyres, batteries and exhausts at competitive prices, and the prompt acquisition of spares. Before the Christmas holidays, make sure your car is roadworthy. Book in for a service today.
Bruton Country Centre
Come along and enjoy a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine! Meet Dawn and Demetri, the new owners of Bruton Country centre. They will be holding entertainment for all the family in their car park on the 7th December. Starting at 2.30pm, amongst the stores there will be children’s craft workshops, Christmas decorations, hand-made craft items, The Body Shop, The ho ho ho Christmas shop, face painting, birds of prey, reptile handling and delicious food by Pigalicious hog roast. In addition to Bruton Country Centre’s normal wide range of stock there will also be on sale Christmas trees (these can be paid for and reserved), wreaths, holly, pet Christmas stockings and much more to get you in the festive mood.
Carols by Candlelight in Bruton
Bruton Choral Society present their now traditional Carols by Candlelight concert, to be held on Friday 16th December at 7.30pm at Bruton School for Girls. An event not to be missed! As ever, there will be mulled wine, mince pies and audience participation in an atmospheric candlelit evening of medieval Christmas music with both original and more modern settings. The choir is delighted to be welcoming Frances Eustace, a leading performer in the world of Early Music. Frances played with the Orchestra of the Age of the Enlightenment for many years and she will demonstrate a variety of medieval musical instruments during the concert. Soprano soloist Angela Ashworth will be joined by Mair Mills (soprano) and the concert will also feature Bruton Recorder Consort and Faelan Sydenham (trumpet and percussion). Tickets £10, to include mulled wine and mince pies, available from Bruton Pharmacy, Churchbridge Stores or 01749 812281 The choir is loyally supported by the Friends of Bruton Choral Society – if you would like to join their number, please contact Mary Aston on maryaston1950 @gmail.com More about the society’s activities can be found on www.brutonchoralsociety.org.uk
Bruton Antique Shop has some lovely gift ideas – silver, jewellery and more.
Beautiful Jewellery... Just one of many gift ideas from
5 High Street, Bruton. Tel: 01749 813264
Furniture ď ˆ Jewellery ď ˆ Collectables ď ˆ Decorative Art Jewellery Making ď ˆ Repairs ď ˆ Restringing
Open: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am – 5pm December: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am – 5pm Dave & Mike wish all their customers a very Merry Christmas
Rachel’s Hairdressing Salon, hairdressing for all the family.
Rachel’s
Hairdressing Salon
Garden — Pet Supplies — D.I.Y. — Clothing
Extended Equine Range inc. Grooming & Feed ... and Poultry Range Logs • Kindling • Gas • Coal • Christmas Trees & Wreaths Join us for Mince Pies and Mulled Wine on ... Wednesday 7th December, 2.30pm – 8pm Wisteria Yard, West End, BRUTON, BA10 0AR Enquiries: 01749 812743 • www.brutoncountrycentre.co.uk
6 THE VISITOR December 2016
Hairdressing for all the family
7 High Street, Bruton Somerset, BA10 0AB
 01749 813210
ď – GIFT VOUCHERS ď – available
Castle Cary’s
Castle Cary’s Big Christmas
CASTLE CARY has a wonderful choice of independent shops providing everything you need
from daily essentials through to luscious luxuries. It’s a wonderful town to visit at any time of the year but on
Christmas!
Thursday 15th December it’s a must because this is when Castle Cary's Big Christmas takes place. The shops will be open for late night Christmas shopping and there will be lots going on for children and adults. The grand Lantern Procession opens the Big Christmas event
at 5.30pm, travelling from the Horse Pond along Fore Street and the High Street, where market stalls from the regular Tuesday market and the Anonymous Travelling Market will be found. Attractions throughout the evening include Morris dancers, carol singing, community stalls, mulled wine, bacon baps, mince pies and a tombola. Father Christmas will arrive at 7.15pm with presents for all the children. So Castle Cary is the place to be! Join in the fun and support the town and do your Christmas Shopping in Castle Cary. Please note that the High Street and Fore Street will be closed to traffic from 4.00pm.
This attractive outfit is just one of many dresses and tunics available from April’s of Castle Cary.
MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd
Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary BA7 7BH Tel: 01963 351052
Narnia - just one of the delightful Christmas displays within Needful Things of Castle Cary. Here you will find a wonderful array of Christmas decorations and gifts.
Needful Things For all the Magic of Christmas ...
Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training
The Market
Personal and professional service
Garden
Always a good choice of fresh fruit & vegetables ... place your Christmas order now!
Fresh Flowers, House Plants, Planted Pots, Fruit Baskets, Gardening Gifts CHRISTMAS TREES O WREATHS O HOLLY Floristry Bouquets Weddings Funerals — FREE LOCAL DELIVERY —
7 High Street • CASTLE CARY • BA7 7AN Tel: 01963 351352 • www.needfulthings.uk.com
Three Counties Landscape & Tree Services @ Julian Shave
TAKE THIS ADVERT TO THE SHOP TO RECEIVE A SPECIAL DISCOUNT ON ANY GARDENING WORK During January & February
Hart House, Fore Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BQ
Office: 01963 31226 • Quotes: 07738 524254 • www.julianshave.co.uk
THE VISITOR December 2016 7
Christmas Cooker Special
CHRISTMAS ESSENTIALS We have a superb range of cookers and dishwashers for immediate delivery FREE installation
FREE local delivery FREE disposal of old appliance (not refrigeration)
Visit our Home Entertainment Centre ... for the very latest in TVs, DVDs and audio
Finance available Lots of gift ideas
Thursday
Promotion ends 13th December 2016
15 th December CASTLE CARY’S BIG CHRISTMAS Call in for a glass of wine! 4 High Street CASTLE CARY • BA7 7AW 01963 351110
www.abishopelectrical.co.uk email: bishopelectrical@btconnect.com 8 THE VISITOR December 2016
Castle Cary’s
The Gallery
‘The Gallery’ in Castle Cary has expanded their business to include an upstairs restaurant and beautiful courtyard with a wood fired pizza oven. The Gallery has been running the last two years as a successful Live Music Venue with Fine Art. It is now open for coffee, cakes & pastries, light lunches and dinner. The stunning street level gallery was decorated by the renowned interior designer David Mlinaric. Live music in the bar continues as normal every
Bobble Hats just £19.95, available from Oxford Mill.
weekend from 9.30pm after last food orders and the bar will continue to be open for drinks. The Gallery is collaborating with top baker Lievito in Lovington and food from a fantastic Italian delicatessen with direct links to the best producers in Italy. The co-owner of The Gallery Sally Burgess says: ‘It’s really exciting to see this area grow its reputation for fine art combined with food and music with Hauser and Wirth in Bruton and many other galleries nearby. We are looking to build on that demand for top quality art, live music and good artisan food which all go hand in hand’. Sally has over 15 years’ experience in the commercial art world having worked as a fine art consultant at a major arts dealership in Mayfair. She was headhunted in 2007 to advise a renowned auction house and a range of private clients. Her partner Sam has been in the hospitality business for many years and prides himself on a passion for good food and great music.
Christmas!
Cafe open Thurs, Fri, Sat 10am-4pm and Restaurant and Bar open Thurs, Fri, Sat from 7pm including takeaway. More information can be found at: www.thegallerybar.co.uk www.clerkenwellfineart.com www.paulnewmanartist.com
Music and Wine
Enjoy good music while tasting great wines. Playing with a unique take on traditional music from the British Isles on fiddle and classical guitar, Mitchell and Vincent mix full on instrumentals alongside their own
arrangements of time-honoured folk songs. There will also be an informal wine tasting provided by The Somerset Wine Co. The entrance ticket includes either sampling of 6 wines or a specific glass of red or white wine. Further tasting or glass of wine can be bought at the event. Sunday 4th December 2016 from 3pm - 6pm, Caryford Community Hall. Tickets, priced at £8.00 each, are available from The Market House or Bailey Hill Bookshop in Castle Cary or online at www.caryfordhall.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
FINE ART • PIZZAS • MUSIC • COCKTAILS Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am – 4pm for Coffee Lunches and Afternoon Tea 7pm – 9pm for Dinner, Bar ‘til 11.30pm Delicious Wood-fired Pizzas Regular Live Music
NOW SHOWING IN THE GALLERY
Clothing, Accessories & Fine Toiletries For Women and Men
The Market Place, Castle Cary, BA7 7AG Tel: 01963 350230 • www.oxfordmillclothing.co.uk
Greetings Cards and Limited Edition Prints ON SALE until the end of December
THE VISITOR December 2016 9
Mrs McGregor’s Magical Emporium - Somerton
available. Workshops are regularly held on a variety of topics - call in to find out more.
Handmade items make extra special gifts. At Mrs McGregor’s there are a wide range to choose from including vintage and modern jewellery, knitted brooches, wood-turned items such as keyrings, locally-made bug boxes, baby clothes, handbags and more! If you want to make craft items
Give the gift of comfort!
ď Ť
yourself, there is everything you need on sale, from fabrics and threads through to craft papers and cards. Some kits are also
Are you stuck for ideas for Christmas gifts? This year, why not give your loved ones the gift of comfort. At the top of our Christmas wish list are Cosyfeet’s Super-soft Bed Socks. Designed to keep the coldest feet warm, these snuggly socks are luxuriously soft and have a loose top for extra comfort. We also love their new cosy Gripped Socks. Available in Berry and Charcoal,
WORKSHOPS in Sewing, Papercraft & Upcycling available ... contact for more details
10 Brunel Shopping Precinct, SOMERTON • Tel: 07599 025748
Pop Art at Camelot Photographic. When supplied with an image of a person or a pet, Camelot Photographic can transform it into ‘Pop Art’. Available printed onto canvas or as a print which can be framed. Camelot Photographic, Wincanton.
10 THE VISITOR December 2016
they’re perfect for padding around the house or snuggling on the sofa. Other great stocking fillers include pampering rose and lavender products, high-quality handkerchiefs and soft, Mohair knee blankets. They also have a fabulous range of cosy slippers that are specially designed for swollen feet. The Cosyfeet shop is based at the Tanyard on Leigh Road in Street.
Ward & Sibley Jewellers
When you visit a jewellers shop it is more often than not for a special occasion.
At Ward & Sibley jewellers of Yeovil the friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure that you receive a personal service whether you are buying a small
thank you gift - or an elegant diamond ring. Being an independent retailer they offer a very individual choice of jewellery. There is something
to suit all tastes and budgets from contemporary costume jewellery through to bespoke pieces. Whilst diamonds are always a firm favourite as gemstones at Ward & Sibley you will find a comprehensive range of precious and semi-precious stones. If you are seeking a particular stone please ask. Why not call in today – a free gift wraps service is available to ensure your gift looks extra special.
Pene Dene - Silk Flowers
Pene Dene is a talented florist who creates wonderful silk flower
WARD & SIBLEY
Christmas decorations and gifts - everything you need to make these items can be found at Hanson’s of Sturminster Newton.
The Jewellers of Yeovil
70
ESTABLISHED YEARS
Christmas all wrapped up!
Customer parking at rear of shop
Individual pieces of jewellery and exquisite gifts to suit all tastes and budgets
THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 “Where customer care comes first”
THE VISITOR December 2016 11
arrangements in her Studio near Sherborne. Over the last 20 years Pene has created beautiful arrangements using the fabulous faux flowers which she has found on her travels round the world. Tiny snowdrops sitting in pretty glass vases, tall phalaenopsis orchids, waxy white and as glorious as the real thing, are planted in superb blue and white china vases, the list of blooms is endless - whether you need a single perfect flower or a glorious arrangement for your home. Visit her forthcoming show where there will be plenty of wonderful gift ideas or maybe treat yourself to a beautiful festive floral display for your Christmas table.
tel:
Careline - 24 hour help at the touch of a button
Worrying about being alone or feeling at risk could be a thing of the past for elderly or vulnerable residents, thanks to the South Somerset District Council-run Careline service.
PRE-CHRISTMAS OFFERS
Set of semi permanent eyelash extensions, or ... Eyelash lift with eyelash tint ... just £40 Shellac manicure and pedicure 01935 851221 ... just £45 Decléor Gift Sets & Gift Vouchers also available for the perfect gift
OFFERS AVAILABLE until 10th December 2016 Visit our website for full range of treatments
1 Trent Court, Trent, Sherborne, DT9 4AY
email: info@beauty-barn.co.uk www.beauty-barn.co.uk
Beautifully presented gifts from Decleor, available from The Beauty Barn, Trent, Sherborne.
The Careline service provides an emergency alarm pendant that can be worn at all times, which links to a control centre where Emergency Control Centre staff are on hand to answer calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Many elderly and vulnerable residents are already benefitting from the reassurance that help is at hand at the push of a button, and relatives can enjoy peace of mind. The Careline staff are fully trained to respond to calls from those in need, with experience in handling thousands of calls a year from the elderly and frail, the disabled, the young and vulnerable, recovering hospital patients and those working or living in isolation. They can call a doctor or an ambulance, the police or friends and family within seconds of a Careline button being pushed. A free demonstration is offered and, if you are happy with it, staff can fit the unit for you immediately. To find out more on how Careline can help, contact 01935 479815 or visit the new website www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk
The Visitor
CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Make someone’s Christmas this year by setting them up with Careline
Careline gives that little extra support to people who want to remain living at home independently for as long as possible while bringing peace of mind to their family and friends. Do you ... Live alone or sometimes feel at risk? Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents? Worry about their safety in an emergency? Want to help them maintain their independence?
If yes, Careline can provide help at the touch of button 24hours a day 365 days a year! Through Careline, you can enjoy the independence of living in your own home, secure in the knowledge that emergency help or advice is available at your fingertips.
For all new installations booked before 31st January 2017 through this advertisement, we will offer one month free of charge! Please quote this advert when you contact us. We offer a free demonstration and if you are happy with it, our staff can fit the unit for you immediately. Contact us on 01935 479815 careline@southsomerset.gov.uk www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk
12 THE VISITOR December 2016
Initial connection / setup fee £32.85* Hire and monitoring £3.82 per week *waived if on certain benefits
Shaftesbury’s Christmas Lights Switch-on
There is still time to enter the Independent Retail and Business Shopping Event in Shaftesbury (ends 28th November) for a chance to enter in the grand prize draw of £1,000. Pick up an entry form from one of the participating shops or businesses, collect 5 stamps from 5 different shops (no minimum spend required) and enter the draw. And don’t forget to enter the Decorate a Wellie competition for a chance to win a pair of Joules wellies! Michael Eavis will be at Shaftesbury’s Late Night event on Friday 2nd December. He will be at Shirley Allum’s, where there will be live music, before switching
on the festive lights for the town. The shops will be open until late, there’ll be lots of music to keep you entertained and the grand draw will take place, so be sure to get your entry in on time. Shaftesbury Late Night is a funfilled event - don’t forget the date.
Muchelney Pottery
Christmas shopping at Muchelney Pottery. The Christmas kiln firing has been unpacked and the shop is brimming with all the new pots. From mugs, jugs, bowls and plates to casseroles, baking dishes and gravy boats ... there are plenty of gift ideas to be found. The shop and gallery are open Monday - Saturday, 9am-1pm and 2pm-5pm at Muchelney, Nr. Langport, TA10 0DW.
Gravy or cream? You’ll find a jug to suit at Muchelney Pottery, where there are plenty of gift ideas for the home. Pictured is a sauce boat. (See their advert in the Langport feature).
Crossroads Pet Supplies
Bird feeders make a very acceptable Christmas gift that gives hours of pleasure whilst also feeding our feathered friends though the winter. At Crossroads there is a selection of feeders plus an extensive range of bird seeds and food to suit all birds. Filled to overflowing with pet requisites from toys and
Roberts Radios have a wonderful tone - available in a variety of styles at Jeans Electrical, Mere.
THE VISITOR December 2016 13
accessories, hutches and beds, feeds and bedding - whether your family pet has four legs or 2, feathered or furred they can supply your requirements. Free parking outside the door. Located on the Yeovil to Sherborne Causeway.
Wardon Hill Trading Post
Wardon Hill Trading Post can be found on the A37, midway
between Dorchester and Yeovil. It has a café and plenty of free parking. Having now passed their first birthday, they have evolved into a thriving business with
Flowers always make a wonderful gift. Send flowers this festive season through Andrea’s of Yeovil.
Flowers say so much!
“Merry Christmas” “Happy New Year” “Thank You”...
more than 50 traders selling a variety of Antiques, Vintage, Collectables & Crafts; all under one roof and on one level, it is wheelchair accessible too! They now have a Reiki healer by appointment Friday, Saturday and Sunday. To book please call Richard on 07842 201675. During November and December they will be staying open ‘til 8pm on Wednesdays for the Christmas shopping season. Why not pay them a visit? Find Wardon Hill Trading Post on Facebook or give them a call for details on 01935 83069. They look forward to meeting you soon.
Limited edition print of a painting by Chris Shaw of the oldest airworthy Swordfish in the world. W5856 is a Mk1 Swordfish and is part of the Fly Navy Heritage Trust based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset. This painting was commissioned by the FNHT for her 75th birthday in October 2016. Edition size 100. Image size 15.5" x 12.5". Available mounted and wrapped £65.00 or framed £110.00 from Martock Gallery, Martock.
BOUQUETS • ARRANGEMENTS • PLANTS
Andrea’s of Yeovil Andre
As an extra treat why not add a Box of Chocolates or a Teddy?
78 Middle Street YEOVIL • BA20 1LT 01935 706526
ANTIQUES • VINTAGE COLLECTABLES • CRAFT Over 50 Traders
FREE Parking • Cafe Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 5pm Sunday 9am – 4pm
A37 DORCHESTER – YEOVIL • DT2 9PW Tel: 01935 83069 WARDON HILL TRADING POST
14 THE VISITOR December 2016
Prints ★ Paintings ★ Bronzes ★ Mirrors ★ Framing Passport Photographs ★ Prints to Canvas
‘Fuzz, Fluff and Feathers’ Limited Edition Print by Aaminah Snowdon Framed Price £65
Martock Gallery Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.30
Water Street • Martock • Tel: (01935) 823254 • www.martockgallery.com
COMPETITION
ENTER our competition for a chance to win this bag of CHRISTMAS GOODIES.. All you have to do is complete the following line from the Christmas carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas:-
“On the eighth day of Christmas my true love sent to me ...”
Answers by email to: visitorcomp@gmail.com or by post to: Christmas Competition, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP, to arrive by Friday 2nd December. Don’t forget to include your name, address and telephone number. The first correct answer out of the hat will be the winner.
A BRAND NEW LOOK at YANDLES
OPEN 7 DAYS
REFURBISHED CAFE
The CAFE has been
enlarged to include a comfortable seating area
Extended MENU inc.
breakfast menu, lunches, homemade cakes and pastries, freshly brewed coffee ... and more!
IMPROVED GALLERY
We have increased
our RANGE OF LOCAL CRAFTS – pottery, sculpture, painting, jewellery, woodworking, ceramics ... call in and see our full range!
GIFTS from around £5
EXTENSIVE HOBBIES AND CRAFTS
Yarns, threads, decoupage, artist materials, jewellery and card making items etc.
Inside the Gallery at Yandles of Martock, where you will find a wonderful range of unique gifts. Enjoy a coffee or light lunch in their newly refurbished coffee shop.
One World
Join One World for mulled wine and mince pies on Sunday 27th November 2pm until 4pm. One World - such an interesting shop, with 6 showrooms over 2 floors stocked with beautiful and unique gifts from around the world - many fair trade. If you are looking for Christmas gift ideas then there are plenty at One World - warm winter
scarves made from lambs or alpaca wool, extra soft bamboo socks, stunning silver jewellery, glass vases, and new in attractive candles from Swaziland. The children’s toy department has a wonderful choice of children’s traditional and soft toys, including gifts for babies. There is always a good choice of stationery, cards for all occasions and diaries. Call in today and see for yourself.
17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166
TOOLS
Woodworking TOOLS and MACHINERY – one of the largest shops of its kind in the country
TIMBER
Our SAWMILLS supply hardwood to both the trade and the public across the south west
—— YANDLES —— HURST WORKS • HURST • MARTOCK • TA12 6JU Tel: 01935 822207 • www.yandles.co.uk
THE VISITOR December 2016 15
FREE
SPARE PAIR
with any frame from our £75 range or above
Family Health
Looking Good
with
Jenna Evans
Tooth & Gum Care Part Three
Look along any supermarket aisle at all the brightly packaged and a r tif ic ia lly c o lo u r e d de n ta l products and treatments and you’d be forgiven for thinking we’d all be decrepit and toothless by the age of 30 without wonderful modern oral hygienics. Now it’s true that we have been using various mineral pastes, powders and roots to ‘brush’ our teeth for hundreds of years - but have you ever taken a look at the ingredients in your toothpaste? Here’s a run down of some of the most basic ingredients and why they’re used. Calcium Carbonate - An abrasive cleaning agent. Glycerin - Forms the basic back bone of a toothpaste along with calcium carbonate. Glycerin has had bad press as it may leave a
film on your teeth, which though not toxic, disrupts the natural Eco system of microflora in the mouth. Triclosan - An antimicrobial agent that has question marks over its safety. May be disruptive to the hormones and responsible for creating antibiotic resistant bacteria. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - A foaming agent which again may be disruptive to the ecosystem of micorflora in the mouth as well as being associated with mouth ulcers. Fluoride - Controversial, poisonous and being ditched by growing numbers of dentists. Colours - Hmm, I wonder, is that electric blue strip natural or necessary? Nope thought not! Flavours - Hopefully natural from essential oils. It would be nice to have just one ingredient in your average toothpaste that I can recommend! So, that leads us on to the question of what exactly toothpastes and mouthwashes are supposed to do? Of course they’re all fresh and tingly and if you believe the adverts, they’re like a little shot of happy to brighten our smiles and lives.
EYES RIGHT OPTICIANS
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. 16 THE VISITOR December 2016
Shirley Allum at the recent fashion show held at The Coppleridge, Motcombe where they raised £4,750 for The Forest Holme Hospice, Poole (chosen in memory of a former friend and model of Shirley). All this was possible with support from sponsorship, local businesses, Shirley Allum friends and staff - everyone involved gave their time. There was a circus theme and the marquee looked fabulous. With their ticket, guests had a glass of bubbly and canapés. Donated ice-cream and popcorn for each guest further added to the feeling of being at the circus.
Looking Good and feeling fine Why not try a little kitchen experimenting, you may be pleasantly surprised with your results and save a few pennies in the process! Jenna Evans ©2016
Jenna is an Holistic Health Coach and creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty UK’. Jenna is also a multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Find Ceres on Facebook as ‘Ceres Natural Foods Ltd’. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.
Amour Lingerie
Shopping for lingerie or nightwear, whether it’s for yourself or as a gift, is always a pleasure at Amour Lingerie in Wincanton. Proprietor Jane and her knowledgeable team offer a warm welcome and are pleased
to offer a fitting service, ensuring the bra you choose is a perfect fit. Christmas is a busy time at Amour. With their range of lingerie, nightwear, swimwear, leisurewear and gifts such as scented candles and La Perla perfume, there really is something for every pocket. And if you can’t make up your mind a gift voucher is the perfect solution to your indecision. Jane says, ‘Sometimes we have couples who visit us together in the lead up to Christmas, with the woman pointing out all that she loves, and the man (and us!) making a mental note of what to come back and buy another time!’ The range of lingerie stocked at Amour includes Prima Donna, Marie Jo, Wacoal, Fantasie and Freya in a wide choice of styles. Basics to fashion pieces, maternity to mastectomy bras, sizes 8-22 and A-I cup are available, with larger sizes available to order. Open 6 days a week at 7 Market Place, Wincanton, BA9 9LL. Telephone: 01963 32808. See their advert in the Wincanton feature.
HartMobility Yeovil
Get ready to party! This sassy party dress is from Joseph Ribkoff, availabe from Preview of Wincanton.
Blah. What we need in our dental products is to support healthy microflora, promote mineralisation, gentle abrasion and maintain a healthy pH. With that in mind here’s a basic toothpaste recipe - 3 tbsp Coconut Oil (antibacterial), 3 tbsp Bicarbonate of Soda (to maintain an alkaline environment for the saliva to do it’s job of bathing the teeth in minerals, also a mild abrasive), Liquid Minerals & Trace Minerals (depending on brand you’ll have to work out a rough dosage to add) and Essential Oils (antimicrobial, healing for teeth & gums, tasty!). You can also add xylitol, a sweetener with antibacterial properties. Good essential oils include peppermint or fennel (classic and freshening), myrrh (good for mouth ulcers or soreness), clove (for aggravated teeth), tea tree (antimicrobial), citrus oils (potent antibacterials) and chamomile (soothing, antiinflammatory). As an alternative to the pastes
we are all familiar with, tooth powders can be simple and effective. They also have a long shelf life as all the ingredients are dry. To make a basic tooth powder mix 4tbsp bentonite clay (alkaline & mineral rich), 3tbsp calcium or bone formula powder (remineralisation) and 1tbsp bicarb. To this base you can add up to 3 tsp of powdered herbs such as cinnamon, cloves, peppermint and fennel. Mix these ingredients well and store in a glass jar. Simply dampen your toothbrush and dip into the powder. For mouthwashes the most basic recipe would be a cup of filtered or distilled water with 1-3 drops of your chosen essential oil. You can also add a couple of teaspoons of bicarb or salt (for ulcers) or try a more complex recipe such as 1 cup aloe Vera juice, half cup distilled water, 1tbsp witch hazel, 2 tsp bicarb, 10-20 drops of essential oil. Store in a clean bottle for up to a fortnight, shaking up before each use.
Disability & Mobility Products
We offer the best service and the lowest prices in the
South West
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1 Camborne Grove (Lyde Road) YEOVIL BA21 5DG www.hartmobility.co.uk
Scooter Servicing from £35 • FREE parking • FREE battery testing
THE VISITOR December 2016 17
Leisure & Travel
Santa Specials at Yeovil Railway Centre
Once again running over five days, the Santa Specials at Yeovil Railway Centre offer a great family occasion in the run up to Christmas with pre-booking highly recommended to avoid any disappointment. The visit begins with a steam train ride and then visitors make their way to the Visitor Centre which is transformed into a magical place with snow and bubble machines enhancing the experience. After a visit to see Santa in his Grotto (with a present for the children), seasonal refreshments are also included in
the ticket price. More details and photos of previous years can be viewed at www.yeovilrailway.freeservers. com where bookings can also be made online. Alternatively telephone 07501 189065 and leave a message for a return call. Main Line Steam is also booked to visit the Centre on Thursday 15th December so the volunteers will all very busy in December! See the website for up to date details.
Mendip Decorative and Fine Arts Society – What’s On
6th December: The Huguenot Weavers of Spitalfields – from Riches to Rags: Mrs Sue Jackson
Yeovil Railway Centre, Yeovil Junction, BA22 9UU
Sun 4 th, Sun 11th, Sat 17 th, Sun 18 th & Fri 23 rd December BOOKINGS VIA WEBSITE
www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com OR TELEPHONE 07501 189065 • £9 each adult /child • £8.50 each for parties of 8 or more • £10 each on the day subject to availability • Babies under 12 months old free of charge
SANTA SPECIAL ***** Yeovil
Price includes steam train ride (subject to availability), seasonal refreshments, a visit to Santa's Grotto and a selected present for the children. Charity No 1043581.
NOVEMBER
26th MARLOW STEWART (9pm) Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi 27th ROSS KIRK - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 30th OPEN MIC’ NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne
will talk to Mendip DFAS on how the Huguenots were initially welcomed with open arms for their skill in weaving luxury silk fabrics, to their eventual demise in abject poverty. MDFAS meet at the Bath and West Bar & Restaurant, B&W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN at 11.00 am. Details; www.mdfas.org.uk Guests Welcome. Contact 01934 862435.
Ilminster 2016 Christmas Tree Festival
The Ilminster Annual Christmas Tree Festival is a spectacular display of around 50 lit and decorated Christmas Trees. This year, for the first time, it has been suggested, as an alternative to a decorated tree, that the charity sponsors display a traditional crib scene. This glittering show, held in the Minster Church in the centre of Ilminster, is open from Monday 5th December, 11am - 6pm; Tuesday 6th – Friday 9th December, 9.30am – 6pm; and Saturday 10th December 9am – 4pm. Local organisations, individuals and families sponsor trees which they decorate themselves to raise money for their nominated charities. Planning and arranging the event is the work of a dedicated team of volunteers lead by parishoners Marie Jewson and Elizabeth Ferriss.
The Italian Connection
Following highly successful collaborations during the previous two years, Axminster and Yeovil Chamber Choirs will be reuniting to perform a concert entitled “The Italian Connection – Music for the season of Christmas”. Music by Palestrina, Victoria, Marenzio, Arcadelt and Mouton, amongst others, will feature during the concerts. Concerts are to take place on Sunday 11th December at 3pm in St Mary’s Church (The Minster), Axminster, EX13 5AQ and on Wednesday 14th December at 7.30pm in Holy Trinity Church,Yeovil, BA20 2BU. Tickets, £10 (to include refreshments), are available on the door at both venues. Visit www.axminster chamberchoir.com or www.yeovilchamberchoir.org for more information.
A Medieval Christmas
On Tuesday 20th December at 7.30pm The Museum of Somerset presents A Medieval Christmas featuring long-forgotten festive songs (plus some surprisingly familiar carols!) played on authentic instruments. Tickets are £12.50 and booking is advisable. For booking and a full list of upcoming events, visit www.museumofsomerset.org.uk
DECEMBER
2nd 3rd 3rd 7th 10th 10th 14th 16th 17th 17th
21st 23rd 23rd 28th 30th 31st
31st 31st 31st 31st
Mr. D’ARCY - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil BARE BONES - Black Swan, Langport ONE TREE HILL - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon BLUES - Crown Inn, Sherborne US (acoustic duo) - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon BRIAN HILSON - Black Swan, Langport CHRISTMAS JAZZ - Crown Inn, Sherborne US (acoustic duo) - Black Swan, Langport DISCO & KARAOKE - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon JOE MITCHELL (9pm) Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi FLATLAND BOOGIE BAND - Crown Inn, Sherborne SAM FRANCIS - Crown Inn, Sherborne STORM - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil OPEN MIC’ NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne FINIAN McGURK - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil MICHAEL BUBLE TRIBUTE ... and LOOSE ROCK (60s, 70s, 80s) Lamb & Lark, Limington LIVE MUSIC - Catash, North Cadbury PHOEBE FISHER - Orchard Inn, Galhampton LIVE MUSIC - Montague Inn, Shepton Montague SCOOT - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil
AN ADVERT IN THE PUB PAGES ENSURES A FREE MENTION HERE !
18 THE VISITOR December 2016
GreenMatthews present A Medieval Christmas at The Museum of Somerset, Taunton, on 20th December.
Festive LANGPORT
GOVERNMENT Minister Andrew Percy said recently that ‘our high streets are the life and soul of towns, villages and cities across the country’ and he’s right when it comes to Langport. Despite the
presence of a Tesco store, the little town still boasts enough shops to stir memories of how country towns used to be. Traditional independent shops still predominate, some occupying the
intriguing mixture of old buildings that line Bow Street and Cheapside and others round the corner on North Street and in the modern Parrett Close (as the Town Square is properly known) by Cocklemoor car park. It’s even got a newly-opened barber’s shop. In a recently-published promotional leaflet the town council and the local business group boast that ‘there’s a lot more to Langport than meets the eye’, claiming that ‘we may be one of England’s smallest towns but we
like to think we punch above our weight’. It probably does, for Langport is one of three shortlisted finalists in the village category of The Great British High Street competition. It’s up against Kirkby Lonsdale in Cumbria and Pateley Bridge in the Yorkshire Dales, and by the time you read this the judges – industry leaders from across retail, property and business sectors – will have carried out their inspections and the public voting on the internet will have closed. Maybe the winner will have
COCKLEMOOR GIFT & CRAFT SHOP
Christmas Gift Ideas for all the family Lots of Boxed Chocolates including Liqueurs TOYS • GAMES • JIGSAWS • PHOTO FRAMES • GIFTS Sirdar and Hayfield Knitting Yarns Patterns, Haberdashery, Ribbons, Crafts Follow us on Facebook
On trend fashion ...
The Angel on Bow Street will host some of the stalls at Langport’s Christmas Fair on 3rd December.
Maya Boutique offers fashion with flair Separates & Dresses Wonderful Accessories Plus Christmas Gift Ideas DO CALL IN
Bow Street, Langport Tel: 01458 253145
Traditional & Quirky Gifts Mainly for Men Cartridge Flask Beard Grooming Kits Cocktail Mixers Silk Bow Ties Cufflinks Nut Crackers & More! Do call in to see our eclectic and inspirational gifts
Gifts for Her from Him ... MAKE Natural Skincare Range
BOUTIQUE
HANOVER HOUSE CHEAPSIDE LANGPORT TA10 9PW
01458 254014
www.maya-boutique.co.uk “Your partner in fashion”
Cashmere Wristwarmers Jewellery
Saturday 3rd December
Open: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm during December (Normally closed Monday & Tuesday)
The Old Register Office Bow Street, Langport, TA10 9PR 01458 252914 www.eustaceandarthur.co.uk
THE VISITOR December 2016 19
Festive LANGPORT
been announced and have received its share of the £100,000 prize pot. It might surprise you to see Langport’s name in the village category, but it’s easy to forget that much of what we think of as La ng p ort is actually H uish Episcopi, a huge parish that hugs the town on all sides except the west. In terms of population, in round numbers Langport’s 1,000 is less than half that of Huish. Look south across the river Parrett from Cocklemoor and you’re seeing Huish. Look north across the moor from Town Garden and the viaduct you see is in Huish. Take a short
climb up The Hill at the eastern end of Cheapside and pass beneath the famous Hanging Chapel and you’re in Huish. If you are looking for Christmas gifts that are a little bit different you could well find them in this ‘village’. The shops are brimming with original gift ideas – needlecraft kits and embroidery silks, individually-crafted silverware and jewellery, glassware, local views, useful and decorative items for the home and garden, carpets and soft furnishings, ladieswear and lingerie, toys and games, sweets,
chocolates and lots of very tempting foods, to name but a few – and are well worth exploring. Car parking in Langport is free and the largest parking area is on Cocklemoor behind the square opposite the Town Hall. And the
town has a choice of cafés and pubs catering for almost all tastes and pockets so you won’t go hungry. The Langport Events Group is active in promoting the businesses through such events as the
SUTTON UPHOLSTERERS Re-upholstery Specialists Antique, Modern and Contract
] Curtains ] Roman Blinds ] Loose Covers ] Re-upholstery ] Bed Spreads & Cushions ] Tracks & Poles ] Window Blinds ] D.I.Y. Supplies
Large selection of fabrics, modern & traditional including ... Sanderson, Romo, Linwood and Villa Nova Expert advice from over 30 years experience
Picts Hill, LANGPORT • Tel: 01458 252492
South West Peninsular Training Training Specialists
The Langport Stores is brimming with speciality groceries, delicatessen, spices and herbal remedies.
They say it’s difficult to find a
GOOD GARAGE
River Parrett Langport
so here is a map to help you ... Westover Trading Estate
L MC
A378
Curry Rivel
NEW AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING
Servicing & Repairs on All Makes of Car Citroën and Peugeot Specialists
Collection & Delivery Service • Courtesy Car Available Full Electronic Diagnostics
Pre -M.O.T. Preparation Work Undertaken NEED A CAR WASH OR A VACUUM?
Our Car Washes & Car Vacuum are the most powerful for miles! Open 24 hours 7 days a week
SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD Westover Trading Estate, Langport, Somerset, TA10 9RB Tel: 01458 253493 • Fax: 01458 253445 Email: info@swptraining.co.uk www.swptraining.co.uk
20 THE VISITOR December 2016
Batteries ★ Tyres ★ Exhausts
Open Monday – Friday 8am – 5.30pm • Saturday Appointments Only
LANGPORT MOTOR COMPANY Prop. Richard White
WESTOVER TRADING ESTATE LANGPORT, SOMERSET, TA10 9RB
Tel: 01458 251100 • Email: langportmotors@btconnect.com
Festive LANGPORT
annual Christmas Fair, which this year takes place on Saturday 3rd December from 2.00pm. Small-scale local producers will be selling a wide variety of foods, craftwork and lots more from stalls in the Town Square and in The Angel on Bow Street, and many of the town shops will participate in a shop-window treasure hunt and stay open until 6.00pm. Musicians including the Kingsbury Episcopi Band will provide free entertainment during the afternoon, and the event culminates with what promises to be a fantastic firework finale at 6.30pm on Cocklemoor. Details of this and other events in the area can be obtained from the Langport Information Centre on Bow Street, telephone 01458 253527, on weekdays between 10.00am and 3.00pm. If you’re in the Langport area don’t miss out on a visit to the John Leach Gallery at Muchelney Pottery. This year’s Christmas exhibition features the works by three local artists – prints by Ann Fagan, handmade silver jewellery
by Holly Webb and garden sculpture by Chris Kampf – along with a display of signed ceramics by John Leach, Nick Rees and Mark Melbourne, and the pottery shop sells the classic range of Muchelney kitchen and tableware. The shop and gallery are open daily except Sundays from 9.00am till 5.00pm but closed for lunch from 1.00pm to 2.00pm, and the Christmas exhibition runs until 24th January. Also well worth a visit is the Sandpits Heating Centre in Curry
FOSTERS NEWSAGENTS NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES Props. Jig & Rimpal WE DELIVER! Extensive Range of Greetings Cards West Country Calendars Beers, Wines & Spirits • Groceries Boxed Chocolates & Biscuits Helium Balloons National Lottery
Bow Street, Langport Somerset, TA10 9PQ Tel: 01458 250607
Rivel, best known for its big range of woodburners but also a good source of home furnishings and accessories and garden furniture. And it has a lovely tea shop called Living Pretty. At nearby
Hambridge the renowned Brown & Forrest smokery at Bowdens Farm has a tempting range of smoked foods for festive meals – and a lovely restaurant! Roger Richards.
Parade Boutique STUNNING LADIES FASHION extensive range of ...
Trousers including NYDJ, Gardeur, Robell and InTown Helen Moore ‘Faux’ Fur Accessories
20% OFF EVERYTHING during December with this advert (purchases over £50)
Leather Jackets, Scarves, Jewellery Slippers, Knitwear and more!
2 Parrett Close, Langport Somerset, TA10 9PG 01458 252010 CUT-OUT COUPON
THE VISITOR December 2016 21
Festive LANGPORT More information regarding The Great British High Street Competition ...
The Great British High Street Competition 2016 celebrates the great work that is being done to revive, adapt and diversify the nation’s high streets. It is one of a number of initiatives to help champion high streets as the cornerstones of the community. This year’s competition saw a record 900 entries across all 14
categories, including the new categories for individuals and shops. The twenty-seven finalists in the 9 categories for places were announced on 18th October. In the village category, as mentioned earlier, Langport is competing against Pateley Bridge in the Yorkshire Dales and Kirkby Lonsdale in Cumbria. Winners in each category will get a share of a prize pot worth
The long-established Cocklemoor shop on Bow Street is a good place to look for Christmas gifts.
Westover Garage Ltd.
The Willows Business Park, Westover Trading Estate, Langport, TA10 9RB
Tel: 01458 252252 MOT TESTING CENTRE
Class 7 Commercial Vehicles • Class 4 Cars & Light Vans • Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles Appointment Basis Only • Re-tests FREE of Charge (within 10 days) Car Service & Car Sales — all makes and models FREE Collection & Delivery plus Loan Car Large selection of Tyres in stock at competitive prices
Langport Christmas Lights -spectacular white lights provided by the supportive Town Council.
Festive Fizz Afternoon Tea Sandwiches
Smoked salmon, cream cheese & watercress Rare beef & horseradish Somerset Brie & black grape Free range egg & red amaranth
Savouries
Crispy prosciutto cup with sausage & sage stuffing Horseradish blini with buttered beetroot & smoked mackerel Crispy pastry cases filled with asparagus, quails egg & saffron aioli
Sweet Selection
Lightly spiced fruit scones with clotted cream & jumbleberry jam Mini frangipane mince pies Black Forest trifle in a shot glass Luscious clementine cake A glass of Bucks Fizz A pot of Twinings Tea
£25 for two throughout December • Please ring to book table Take the stress away from hosting your CHRISTMAS PARTY by ordering* your FESTIVE CANAPÉS from our LIVING PRETTY KITCHEN
Festive Savoury Canapés and Sweet Canapés £1.20 each
*Minimum order of 12 per canapé choice Home Interiors Christmas Gifts & Decorations
ThE OLD BAkERY • hIGh STREET CuRRY RIVEL • SOMERSET • TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 253357 • info@livingpretty.co.uk For more information please visit www.livingpretty.co.uk
22 THE VISITOR December 2016
Festive LANGPORT
£100,000 and expert training from Google’s digital taskforce for shops, bars and restaurants, as well as a trip to Twitter UK’s London office to boost their social media skills. Alongside the public’s votes shortlisted village high streets will also be inspected by judges from Marks & Spencer, an industry leader in retail. The judges have a 50% say on who wins the competition. Voting closed on 18th November 2016 and winners will be announced live at a ceremony on the 12th December. It is a real achievement to reach the top three in the village category. The Visitor would like to congratulate Langport for being
a short-listed finalist and wish them the best of luck in the final.
Visitor Offer from Lafleure
Lafleure has specialised in providing everything to make homes beautiful since 2002. They provide lighting, soft furnishings, upholstered sofas, chairs, mirrors, gifts, and decorative accessories to adorn every room in your house. They also sell garden furniture and pots to make outside spaces as beautiful as interiors. Their years of experience enable them to source and work with the best craftspeople and skilled artisans in the region. So whether it’s French antique painted furniture, reupholstered Victorian Chesterfield sofas,
individual chairs, hand-framed original art, their custom-designed window seats or personalised handmade cushions, Lafleure is the place to visit. Visitor readers can buy unique Christmas decorations at a special price on their Christmas Sunday opening, 4th December 2016.
BUSINESS UPDATE
A warm welcome awaits at the newly refurbished Black Swan
Mike and Jo Dandy have 27 years’ experience in the trade. They offer a comprehensive menu, freshly
prepared using local ingredients, which is both diverse and imaginative. They have a burger board offering 100% beef burgers and, for the more adventurous diner, crocodile, ostrich, venison and wild boar burgers! For the traditionalists they offer a Sunday roast with homemade Yorkshire puds which is proving extremely popular; booking is advised. Curries, mid-week roasts and daily specials can all be found on the menu and, as a freehouse, there is always a West Country ale and a national ale on draught! Mike, Jo and family, including Sid the dog, look forward to seeing you soon!
The Black Swan Langport’s 300 year old pub is now open
New owners Mike & Jo welcome you
The Lafleure antique and furnishings dealer is prominently situated at the junction of Cheapside and North Street and has a second shop on the opposite side of Cheapside.
**
Mid Week Roast only £5.95 every Wednesday Join our Thursday Night Curry Club curry and a drink for £8.95 Wines from around the world Excellent Lunchtime Menu Light Bites and Basket Meals Speciality Burgers and locally sourced Grilled Meats
Christmas Fayre Menu Now Available 2 courses £15.95 3 courses £19.95 Booking is recommended
* Lafleure * * *
Sunday Opening 4th December 11am — 3pm SPECIAL OFFER to Visitor Readers Christmas Decorations 3 for 2 on Special Sunday
The Black Swan North Street, Langport, TA10 9RQ
01458 252854
Cheapside, Langport, TA10 9PW • Tel: 01458 253209
S HIRES G ARAGE A UTO S ERVICES S E R V I C I N G
•
M O T
•
R E P A I R S
MOT Testing for Cars and Motorcycles Servicing Repairs Diagnostics Laser Wheel Alignment Batteries and Exhausts Courtesy Car
CAR SALES see website: www.shiresgarage.co.uk tel:
New patients and families welcome
01458 250570
SOMERTON ROAD • LANGPORT • TA10 9SQ
We Operate an Emergency Christmas Denture Repair Service
Please call our Emergency Service 01458 252444 Manufacturers of New Dentures, Relines, Sports Mouth Guards and a Same Day Denture Repair Service
If you are in pain and need Emergency Treatment during the Christmas Break, telephone 07854 752661 For Non-Emergency Appointments telephone 01458 253888
Dental Design Ltd
81 Bow Street, Langport, Somerset, TA10 9PR Company Registration Number: 04254199
THE VISITOR December 2016 23
VINTAGE Motor Cycling
MOTOR ING
I WROTE some time ago of the British Motorcycle Charitable Trust who place machines in museums for public display. They also provide funds so that these machines can be properly restored before they are displayed for public consumption. One such machine is a Baughan motorcycle which now resides in the Stroud Museum in the Park. It is well worth a visit to Stroud to see this museum. Baughan motorcycles and cyclecars started in 1920 in Harrow but the following year they moved to Stroud to continue production, hence the link to place a Baughan in that particular museum. They continued production until 1936. For such a small company they certainly enjoyed some sporting success, especially in the long distance trials type of event. They won the Land's End, London to Edinburgh and London to Gloucester Trials as well as the 1933 Scottish Six Days Trial. All of them big prestige events of their day. The Scottish event was somewhat controversial as the Baughan had drive to the sidecar wheel which gave it considerable advantage. It just shows they were innovative for their time. A safety issue has come to my attention which may be of use to you. For any machine with mechanically operated brakes (that is non-hydraulic operation)
it is not recommended to use bonded brake linings. You are recommended to use the older fashioned woven material type of linings which were riveted to the metal shoes. This woven material is still available but will probably need specifying when ordering replacements. I have racked my feeble brain to understand what the difference could mean in practical terms but it is beyond me, so I leave this for your information and to those with a greater mind than my own. Club life continues throughout December. For example, the Somerset Section has a Bring and Buy for its club night on the 1st, and this is followed on the 11th by the Christmas Run and Lunch. Lastly on the 27th will be Ashley's Run from the Pecking Mill Inn at Evercreech. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section make do with their Christmas Dinner for their club night on the 12th. The Dorset Section start with the Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 7th and on the 14th will be a Social Evening at Pulham for the club night. Next on the 18th will be the Christmas Run and Dinner at Leigh Village Hall and last of all will be the Breakfast Meet back at West Stour on the 31st. Both Somerset and Dorset have a New Year's Day Run on the 1st January. As usual more details can be had by ringing 01935 872528. I wonder how many of you are beavering away in the shed on this winter's restoration project, and I wonder how many of these
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
A rare sight these days, a Panther machine in pristine condition.
'new' machines will be out and about at the first glimpse of spring next year. I have been travelling the country recently with my duties within the VMCC. That means my own restoration has stalled completely. It seems a full time job to keep clean and serviced the bikes I am actually using at this time. I have also bought another machine which is in running order but which I shall also service and clean before it gets much usage. So my project of restoring my Humber has not been touched for some months, and that seems a great shame. I will get around to it but ‘when?’ is the big question. Panther machines in use are quite rare these days so my picture this month depicts just such a machine. Owned by a local club member, this machine has recently been restored and very nice and shiny it looks. Panther was a very early producer and always stuck with the same format, a single cylinder sloping forward and doubling up as a frame member. They were never considered a 'glamorous' machine but they were always a solid, well engineered machine
and many owners favoured them to haul a sidecar. A real workmanlike machine. The one pictured looks and runs superbly. We are now in the season of Christmas Lunches and all sorts of celebrations. Should you not receive the next edition before Christmas then may I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a happy and successful New Year. Christmas seems to come around oh so quickly these days, and I never seem to have enough time to think up fresh New Year's resolutions. So I always use the same resolutions each year and that is to get out more and make better use of the machines I have. This year though I am taking it a step further. I shall be lobbying parliament and my local MP with the proposition that we change the week from the present, to one that has five Sundays followed by two working days. This would mean less work time for those employed, more people employed to make up the shortfall therefore less unemployed, and the leisure and tourist industry would gain substantially. What is there not to like? Rod Hann.
Situation Vacant
M.O.T. TESTER WANTED
24 THE VISITOR December 2016
Good rates of pay – full or part time SHIRES GARAGE AUTO SERVICES Somerton Road • Langport • TA10 9SQ Tel: 01458 250570
Christmas in Somerton
IF YOU SHARE my delight in nosing around the nooks and crannies of Visitorland’s towns and villages you will know that Somerton is endlessly fascinating and well worth a visit at any time of year. There is simply so much worth seeing in the town’s medieval heart, and much of it
has been sensitively protected by the planners and conserved by the property owners. Planning policy as we know it today is very much a child of the 20th century, but that doesn’t mean that earlier development was entirely random and unplanned. Somerton was
Somerton is one of the few towns in the area to have a gunsmith on its Market Place.
The Dress Circle Dress Agency
QuALITY FAShION ITEMS WANTED TO SELL ON A COMMISSION BASIS Wedding hats, wedding outfits, cruise wear and good quality casual wear and accessories, accepted every day ... 10am - 4pm Monday - Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday
For large quantities collections can be arranged
4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY 01458 273485 Say you saw it in The Visitor
THE VISITOR December 2016 25
Christmas in Somerton
probably the site of a palace or castle in Anglo-Saxon times, and historians tell us that in the reigns of the West Saxon kings from around 662 until 878 Somerton was one of the principal
fortified towns in the Saxon kingdom. In 878 the town was burnt down by the Danes following their defeat of King Alfred but was rebuilt and refortified and remained a Royal
manor, even after the Norman conquest of 1066. Its dry position above the levels and moors led to its growth in importance as a market town and administrative centre in the Middle Ages. The medieval street pattern was laid out sometime during the period 1278 to 1371 when the town was the meeting place of the circuit and shire courts and home to the county gaol, and it
survives simply because, thanks to being off the main communication routes, Somerton missed out on the industrial revolution and its after-effects. Piecemeal rebuilding continued, as it had done down the centuries, but there was no major redevelopment or expansion. Even in the early 20th century the town’s inhabitants numbered less than 2,000. The railway
Lee Holmes has an extensive upstairs showroom
Fully Qualified Engineers • Delivery & Collection We service all types of garden machinery
LEE HOLMES
INDEPENDENT GARDEN MACHINERY SPECIALIST
15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park SOMERTON
Tel: 01458 274261
www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk SALES • SERVICE • REPAIRS
E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 4 6
INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS MEMORIAL MASONS • PREPAYMENT PLANS Pound Pool, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6LZ 01458 272297 or Langport 01458 250509
Willowfields, Lowerside Lane, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 9GY 01458 831020 28 High Street, Butleigh, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8SY 01458 850654 or Street 01458 443677 www.forseyandson.co.uk
26 THE VISITOR December 2016
Behind the little window high on the east wall of the White Hart is the room where King John II of France was allegedly imprisoned in the 14th century. The building is said to incorporate some walls of a castle that once stood upon the site.
THE BUTTERCROSS TEAROOMS
Market Place, Somerton (01458) 273168
Homemade Cakes & Scones Morning Coffee, Cream Teas Lunch Served 12 – 3pm Open: Tue – Sat 9 – 4pm
Christmas in Somerton
eventually reached Somerton in 1906, some 50 years after nearby Langport, Castle Cary and Glastonbury had been linked to the growing national network, but then, as now, most trains sped through on their way to the West Country. The sparse service of local stopping trains was withdrawn as long ago as 1962. Nowadays the town’s medieval heart attracts visitors from all over the world. The two original main streets – Broad Street and West Street – meet at right angles at the Market Place with its 17th century butter cross and town hall in the centre. The surrounding buildings, a
fascinating mix of different styles and periods but almost all built in local blue lias stone, meld well to create a timeless atmosphere. Parts of the parish church are medieval, dating from the early 13th century, and its 16th century timber roof is one of the finest in Somerset. The building housing the White Hart pub is certainly of medieval origin and allegedly incorporates some of the walls of an ancient castle that once stood on the site. Behind the little window high on its east wall is the room where King John II of France was allegedly imprisoned in the 14th century. Other buildings on the Market
£40
SOMERTON HAIR & BEAUTY
Gel Nails Manicure & Pedicure only ...
Full range of beauty treatments
Waxing Facials Spray Tan Sunbed Massage Hairdressing CHRISTMAS GIFTS including ... Jewellery – Scarves Gift Vouchers & Beauty Products
OPEN: 9am – 6.30pm Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 3pm Saturday
Chapel House, West Street, SOMERTON, TA11 7PS
TuRNER WINDOWS Tel: 01458 272910
Suppliers & Installers of PVC-u & Aluminium Windows Doors and Conservatories ■ ■ ■ ■
FULL RANGE OF SERVICES ...
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Butter Cross, Market Place
Meat, Sausages, Plants, Italian Cheeses, Salamis, Cushions Lampshades, Handmade Soaps, Candles, Bespoke Catering Salmon Rolls, Veg Samosas, Cooked Meals, Avalon Kombucha Dorset Pies, Somerset Deli, Olives, Spices, Nuts, Snacks, Baklavas Cupcakes, Preserves, Jam, Chutney, Vinaigrette, Tapenade, Mayo Pesto, Rare Breed Woollen Products, Sheepskins, Fruit Juices Jewelleries, Glassware, Vegetables, Fish marketonatsomerton@gmail.com
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“I just wanted to thank you and the team for the excellent service I have experienced whilst having my doors and windows replaced. Firstly your product is excellent the solid construction and the positive locking mechanism have really solved a soundproofing problem and as a bonus I am looking forward to reduced heating bills this winter. Your fitters on site were brilliant, they kept the place clean and tidy and were very careful when working around existing tiles which as you know I was concerned about. It’s a major consideration and worry to hand over your keys when you cannot be around for the fitting but I need not have had any concerns as from start to finish everything was carried out with the upmost professional manner.” Kelv Gibbs – October 2014
as endorsed by Celebrity World Snooker Champion Steve Davis ... AND PERSONAL SERVICE Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to our Site Showroom in Somerton. CALL today for a FREE no obligation quote
Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd
Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB
Call: 01458 272555 www.turnerwindows.co.uk
THE VISITOR December 2016 27
Christmas in Somerton
Place of historical interest include the Market House (occupied until recently by the Market Bar and Bistro), the Globe, Old Bell House and Tudor House, all built in the
17th century but with subsequent additions or alterations. Freeman House next to the Red Lion is older, dating from the early 16th century, and although the Red
Lion is mainly 18th century it contains traces of a 17th century building at its southern end. This former coaching inn is an important listed building and has been sensitively converted into town houses. The town's oldest hostelry in the 17th century, when it was
known simply as The Inn, stands at the far end of New Street – a new street in the 14th century – on the eastern edge the town. Nowadays a private house called Cockspurs, the inn was where highwayman Tom Cox is thought to have stayed when he was in Somerton. The story goes that
The historic Red Lion coaching inn on the Market Place is an important listed building which has been converted into town houses.
SOMERTON MOTOR CO. LTD Director: Jim Seward
Servicing & Repairs to Modern Classic & American Cars
MOTs Petrol & Diesel Diagnostics
Unit 9, Bancombe Road Trading Estate SOMERTON, Somerset, TA11 6SB Tel: 01458 274455
Cockspurs on New Street was once an inn where, in the 17th century, highwayman Tom Cox is reputed to have stayed when he was in the area.
Market Cross Antiques West Street, Somerton Tel: 01458 274005
Over 31 dealers offering a wide range of antiques, collectables and decorative furnishings
Look out for January Sale Bargains FIND US ON FACEBOOK
FULL OF BEANS Offering consultation and advice for muscular and skeletal aches, pains and injury; maintenance treatments for improved mobility and Kinesiology evaluations for diet, allergy and nutritional health F O R BO OKI NGS PLE A SE CONTACT
01458 223300 • 07889 857289 • osteopath@andrew-knight.co.uk
Find me on Facebook - @AndrewKnightOsteopath and follow me on Twitter - @osteopathknight
www.andrew-knight.co.uk
28 THE VISITOR December 2016
Tea – Coffee – Cappuccino – Latte – Hot Chocolate Homemade Soup & Cakes – Filled Panini / Baguettes Jacket Potatoes – Light Lunches / Snacks – Mince Pies
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6 West Street, Somerton 07733 246023
Christmas in Somerton Somerton has acquired a farflung reputation for its antiques, arts and crafts dealers.
Cox, born in 1666 the younger son of a west country gentleman, grew into a startlingly handsome youth with a penchant for women and gambling, which soon swallowed up his meagre inheritance. He decided the only solution was to take to the road and steal what he needed, and although he was arrested on three separate occasions he was always fortunate enough to be acquitted. At his third trial a pretty young gentlewoman with a fortune of £1,500 fell madly in love with Cox and he quickly agreed to marry her. Within two years he had spent her money in gambling dens and brothels, so he abandoned her and returned to his old way of getting money, with the highways of Somerset receiving his special attention. The Inn at Somerton was ideally situated for him, being on the edge of the town on what was then the road to Castle Cary. On the other side of town, of particular architectural interest on West Street are one of Somerton’s oldest houses, Leavers Court, which originated as a timber-framed house in the 15th century, the almshouses built for the town by Sir Edward Hext in 1626, and the imposing Unicorn Hotel which is of late medieval or
16th century origin. When you need some respite from viewing these ancient buildings or simply from walking round the shops, you will discover that Somerton is well provided with pleasant places to eat and drink. As well as the pubs already mentioned there is the Royal Oak beyond The Triangle at the junction with the road to Langport, and cafés include the Buttercross Tearooms on the Market Place, Full of Beans and the Courtyard Café on West Street, and another inside the independent Williams supermarket in the Brunel Shopping Centre. This little precinct off West Street, is well worth a browse to see amongst others, a wholefoods store offering a wide variety of tempting products, a dress agency selling pre-owned quality fashion items, a long-established pet centre stocking almost everything a pet could wish for, and a supplier of craft materials, haberdashery and hand-made gifts. Somerton will, of course, be celebrating Christmas, starting with a Victorian Fayre in the town centre on Friday 2nd December when the Christmas lights will be switched on at 6.30pm and many of the shops will be staying open late for Christmas shopping. Information about other festive events in the town can be found on its website www.somerton.co.uk and at the local information centre in the library off West Street. Roger Richards.
by George Gray, who has worked in estate agency since 1990 covering areas throughout Somerset and Dorset specialising in both town and country residential sales from apartments to farms, land and estates. At George James Properties they strive to offer the very best service to their customers whether they are selling their home or looking to buy. They
pride themselves on offering a friendly, clear, honest no nonsense approach on all property matters helping to make buying and selling as stress free as possible. If you are considering moving and would like to find out more about how George James Properties can help you please call Somerton 01458 274153 or Martock 01935 388377.
BUSINESS UPDATE George James Properties opens in town centre
George James Properties is a local independent estate agent committed to achieving a high standard of customer care using modern methods yet retaining important traditional values. Led
THE VISITOR December 2016 29
Festive Food & Drink
Kimbers Farm Shop
Join the team at Kimbers Farm Shop for their Open Day: 26th November, 2pm until 5pm. There will be plenty of goodies for you to taste, including their delicious turkeys and gammons. There will be an array of local suppliers with their wares, among them Longmans Farmhouse Cheese and the Somerset Wine Company. Local arts and crafts stalls will be selling crafts for Christmas such as pottery, jewellery and wooden items. Kimbers always have a good choice of gift ideas including traditional toys for the children, hand cream and lotions from the Somerset Toiletries Company and The Somerset Lavender Co., fun aprons and oven gloves, alpaca wool socks, biscuits, sheepskin rugs and more. Hampers can be made to order and a mail order service is available. The local Bruton vicar will bless the crib in the farm shop at around 3.30pm and this will be followed by carols by the Salvation Army – do come along and get into the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Meat at Lagan Farm Shop
We have everything you’ll need this Christmas, fresh from local farms to your festive table! Order your Christmas meat at Lagan Farm Shop with our experienced and friendly team of butchers to help you. Our turkeys are raised by Alban Harris at Brunsell Farm in Stourton Caundle which is only 13miles from farm to farm shop! Enjoy quality beef and lamb from Lagan Farm, raised and grazed next door to the garden centre keeping food miles to the minimum. The Christmas Meat price list is available to view online at www.orchardpark.biz/meat-packs and all orders must be placed before 20th December 2016. You can order in-store, on the phone 01747 833747 or via email farmshop@orchardpark.uk.net
Jon Thorner’s Christmas Open Evening - Pylle
Mouthwatering meat, festive foods and tasty treats! Friday 2nd December 6pm – 8.30pm.
Enjoy an evening of delicious and festive foods to spark your imagination this Christmas. Discover handmade chocolates and desserts, specially brewed tipples, locally made cheeses and preserves from our host of local suppliers, including our own award winning chef’s range, along with complimentary mince pies, welcome drinks and Brittens freshly cooked hot chips. There will be live music, carol singers, fantastic on-the-night special offers plus the chance to win a Christmas hamper worth £50! Join us at Bridge Farm Shop, Pylle, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6TA.
Bower Hinton Farm Shop Martock
Christmas lines are now in at Bower Hinton Farm Shop and include festive tipples such as sloe gin, mulled wine, mulled cider, fruit wines and traditional ciders. Orders are now being taken for locally reared turkeys (prices held from 2013), poultry, game and red meat. Just pick up an order form - then drop it in and your order will be ready when required. Potatoes by the sack and loose sprouts are available. A Christmas hamper filled with local cheeses, ciders, wines and meats would make a lovely Christmas gift. Call in today and
Jon Thorner’s - open evening, Pylle.
see the complete range. Don’t forget to check out the Christmas trees from the Blackdown Hills which are very competitively priced.
Wessex Butchery – Somerton
It is time to think about your Christmas meat order. Wessex Butchery have a fantastic selection of local free range turkeys, geese, duck, ribs of beef and other delicious grass fed meats. Rolled turkey crown breast – a whole turkey breast
Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock CHRISTMAS TREES Traditional and Nordman Fir 6 – 7 Foot Non Drop £30.50 * Traditional £18.50
Local Turkey - Geese - Red Meat - Hams etc - Hampers Fruit & Veg Boxes - Sprouts - Dairy Produce - Christmas Cakes & Puds OPEN: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm OPEN: Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd December 9am – 5pm • Christmas Eve 9am – 1pm
Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton Tel: 01935 827743 • www.bowerhintonfarmshop.co.uk
KIMBERS’ FARM SHOP
CHRISTMAS TURKEY GEESE • GAMMON Beef • Veal • Pork Poultry • Lamb Mutton • Game Charcuterie Our Own Raw Milk
OPEN: Tuesday – Friday 8.30am – 6pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am – 4pm Find us on the B3081 ½ mile from Otter Nurseries on the Wincanton to Bruton Road BA9 8HD 01963 33177 • info@kimbersfarmshop.co.uk • www.kimbersfarmshop.co.uk
30 THE VISITOR December 2016
THE VISITOR December 2016 31
Festive Food & Drink
deboned and rolled by our master butchers to create easy carving on Christmas Day – a firm favourite. Prime gammon joints a fantastic centre piece for any Christmas meal from seasonal parties through to Boxing Day and New Year, good to eat hot or cold! Pigs in blankets, gala pies and cheese, stuffing and pickles are just a few of the delights that are available at Wessex Butchery on
HAMPER 1
Boneless Turkey Crown (family 5 - 6) Dry Cured Gammon Joint (family 3 - 4) Pigs in Blankets x 12 Dry Cured Streaky Bacon Sausage Meat / Stuffing & Cranberry Sauce ... for only
£49
the Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton. Call in today and place your order. They also make up delicious hampers - an ideal Christmas gift! (See their advert). Smoked pâtés, smoked salmon and other delicious fare - from Brown and Forrest of Hambridge. Go along to their tasting day - there are plenty of ideas for Christmas including hampers by post.
HAMPER 2
Boneless Turkey Crown (family 8 - 10) Dry Cured Gammon Joint (family 5 - 6) Pigs in Blankets x 24 Dry Cured Streaky Bacon Sausage Meat / Stuffing & Cranberry Sauce ... for only
£79
Unit 4, Wessex Building, Bancombe Trading Estate Somerton, TA11 6SB
32 THE VISITOR December 2016
Honey Roasted Parsnip Soup with Parsnip Crisps Game Terrine, Toasted Sourdough with Cranberry Chutney Smoked Salmon & Prawn Mousse with Cucumber & Caper Dressing Winter Salad with Beetroot, Candied Walnuts, Bath Blue & Wine Vinaigrette ***************************
Pancetta Wrapped Turkey Breast, Pinenut, Lemon & Sage Stuffing with a Pig in a Blanket Pheasant Breast, Celeriac Purée & Blackberry Sauce Festive Filo Parcel stuffed with Roast Chestnuts, Wild Mushrooms, Feta, Garlic & Thyme Pan Fried Seabass, Shallots, Samphire & Burr Blanc All served with Firehouse Roasties, Roasted Root Vegetables, Braised Red Cabbage & Brussel Sprouts ***************************
Lemon & Ginger Posset with a Firehouse Festive Biscuit Firehouse Christmas Pudding with a Somerset Cider Brandy Cream Chocolate & Orange Torte with Hazelnut Crumb West Country Cheese Board with Fig & Port Chutney *************************** Available Lunch & Dinner Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in December (1st − 24th) 2 Courses, Coffee & Festive Firehouse Fours £25 3 Courses, Coffee & Festive Firehouse Fours £30 Please book your table & pre-order on 01458 887447 or email: hello@thefirehousesomerset.co.uk
Traditional Country Pub Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink
Christmas Menu
From Thursday December 1st
Starters
Spiced Parsnip Soup Smoked Salmon Prawn Cornets with a Marie Rose Sauce Black Pudding with Caramelised Apple Marinaded Mozzerella Salad with Sun Blush Tomatoes And Olives All with Fresh Bread Rolls
Mains
Roast Turkey with all the Trimmings Sirloin Steak with Docks Steak Butter, Tomatoes and Mushrooms Game Pie with Seasonal Vegetables and Potatoes Smoked Haddock Mornay with Chargrilled Vegetables with Orzo Pasta
Puddings
Traditional Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter or Cream Chocolate Orange Crè me Brulee Tropical Fruit Salad Cheese Board wth Quince Cheese Coffee
2 Courses £14.95 - 3 Courses £18.95
Also throughout December Lunch Time Only
2 Course Roast Turkey Lunch with Christmas Pudding or Mince Pie
£9.50
Dinnington Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397 Email hilary@dinningtondocks.co.uk THE VISITOR December 2016 33
West Stour • Nr Gillingham • Dorset • SP8 5RP
The versatile menu at The Ship Inn caters both for those who want a hearty sandwich and a pint, to those who want to enjoy a full three-course meal with a decent bottle of wine. Our dishes are a blend of the traditional and the not so familiar, with a specials board and fresh fish board that offer further daily choices. We pride ourselves on using local and seasonal ingredients as much as possible and all dishes are freshly prepared and cooked to order. ______________________
Christmas Menu 2016 3 courses £24.95 / 2 courses £18.95 (coffee & mince pies included) BOOKINGS & PRE-ORDERS ONLY Available Lunch or Evening from 1st December to 24th December 2016
Starters
Sweet potato & ginger soup, freshly homemade bread
Corton Denham, Sherborne, DT9 4LR www.thequeensarms.com
NEW YEAR’S EVE JAMES BOND PARTY (Black Tie)
With black jack and roulette tables and entertainment
Win vouchers to exchange for drinks at the bar at the tables.
Three course meal and free taxi home if booked by Wednesday 30th November
£75.00 per person
50% non refundable deposit at time of booking
Please call 01963 220317 to book or ... email relax@thequeensarms.com
34 THE VISITOR December 2016
Duck liver & orange pate, gooseberry & coriander chutney, toasted homemade bread Hot smoked salmon, prawn & citrus tian, lemon & dill crème fraiche, dressed leaves
Grilled aubergine basil tomato & Mozzarella parcel, toasted pine nuts, rocket salad, balsamic glaze
Mains
Roast breast of turkey, cranberry stuffing, pigs in blankets, bread sauce, roast potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables and pan gravy. Pheasant smoked bacon & leek stroganoff, garlic & rosemary parmentier potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables
Wild mushroom spinach & hazelnut wellington, smoked Applewood cream, wild rocket, parsnip dauphinoise potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables Pan-fried fillet of hake, prawn & pea risotto, saffron & chive cream, dressed salad
Braised daube of beef, red wine mushroom & bacon jus, parsnip dauphinoise potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables
Desserts
Traditional Christmas pudding with warm brandy custard & vanilla ice cream White chocolate & Bailey’s mousse
Millionaire’s cheesecake, coffee cream
Raspberry Amaretto & basil semi-freddo, Ameretti crumble topping
Tel: 01747 838 640 • Fax: 01747 838 640 Email: mail@shipinn-dorset.com Website: http://www.shipinn-dorset.com
Natterjack Inn ... Christmas at the ... Evercreech Junction EVERCREECH • BA4 6NA
Menu December 2016 STARTERS
Creamy Bubble & Squeak Soup, Crispy Bacon Chicken Liver Pate with Toasted Brioche, Apple Chutney Beetroot, Smoked Salmon & Prawn Roulade, Horseradish Cream Melting Somerset Camembert, Cranberry Compote
MAINS
Traditional Roast Turkey with Cranberry & Port Sauce Slow Roasted Beef Brisket with Red Wine Jus Roast Pork Shoulder with Cider & Apple Sauce
All served with Roast Potatoes, BaconWrapped Sausages, Sage & Onion Stuffing & SeasonalVegetables
Leek & Chestnut Mushroom Wellington, Stilton Sauce, New Potatoes & Vegetables Roasted Home Smoked Organic Salmon Fillet, White Wine Sauce, New Potatoes & Vegetables
PUDDINGS
Homemade Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce Lemon Posset, Cranberry Compote, Shortbread Baked Vanilla Cheesecake, Blackcurrant Icecream, Blackcurrant Coulis Profiteroles with Chantilly Cream & Chocolate Sauce Selection of Local Cheeses, Biscuits, Apple Chutney Our Christmas Menu is available from 1st to 24th December 3 Course Menu £25.00 • 2 Course Menu £19.00 – Lunchtimes Only Booking & Pre-Ordering are required for this menu
NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY MENU
Gladrags” Theme (dress to impress) “Handbags—&Normal Menu Plus Specials — Tel: 01749 860253 • Fax: 01749 860757 email: natterjack@btconnect.com www.thenatterjackinn.com
Bookings ...
AY ND RY SU RVE CA
Welcome to
Aller • Langport TA10 0RA Christmas Day 2016 Menu
STARTERS Smoked tomato & red pepper soup, crispy basil leaves, roasted pine nuts & sour cream, served with crusty bread Shredded confit duck, pork and green onion rillettes, toasted sour dough bread, Cointreau & star anise sauce Smoked trout & prawn tian, wonton wafers, pickled cucumber, lime hollandaise Lemon sorbet amuse-bouche MAINS Roast West Country turkey, goose fat & thyme roast potatoes, bacon wrapped chipolatas, honeyed parsnips, seasonal vegetables & gravy Cannon of pork tenderloin, oxtail croquette, roasted vegetables & feta cheese, creamed potatoes, mulled cider jus Cod loin wrapped in pancetta, salsify puree, savoy cabbage, Lyonnaise potato, grain mustard & dill cream Pearl barley & wild mushroom risotto, sauté beetroot, wilted kale, basil oil SWEETS Traditional Christmas pudding, brandy sauce, vanilla ice cream Chocolate & cherry brownie, toffee ice cream, chocolate sauce Cinnamon apple tarte Tatin, clotted cream, passionfruit syrup Petit fours and coffee
3 courses £59.50 per person • (children under 10 £29.00) 2 courses £49.50 per person • (children under 10 £24.00)
To include a cracker and a welcome drink of buck’s fizz or soft drink. A discretionary 10% service charge will be added to your bill.
01458 250469 E: info@oldpoundinn.com www.oldpoundinn.com
The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH
Christmas Party MENU now available (minimum 6 people) 4 Courses + Tea / Coffee ... only £18.95 per person Christmas Day 4 Courses including Carvery Main Course ... only £39.95 per person Booking is essential – call for details
Large Beer Gardens
New Year’s Eve Party – LIVE MUSIC – free entry Open from 7.30pm Party starts at 9pm
01963 441531 • catashinnpub@gmail.com
ROYAL OAK
Skittle Alley
Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...
Over Stratton SOUTH PETHERTON
A Charming Country Inn where dining out won’t break the bank
Christmas Fayre
Celeriac and apple soup finished with herb croutons Grilled goats cheese with spiced plums and pesto dressing Barbary duck, pear & walnut salad, pomegranate & raspberry dressing Smoked salmon and asparagus tart
* * * * * * * * *
Traditional roast turkey served with bacon, chipolata & stuffing Baked fillet of red snapper, Mediterranean vegetables, balsamic dressing Pork, apple and cider stew, sage dumplings Seasonal vegetable strudel
All served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes * * * * * * * * *
Christmas pudding and brandy custard Strawberry and clotted cream tart, basil Chantilly cream Orange and redcurrant crème brülée, shortbread biscuit Selection of cheese and biscuits
* * * * * * * * *
2 Courses – £15.95 • 3 Courses – £19.95
Delicious NEW Lunchtime Menu 2 Courses – £8.95 See WEBSITE for details: www.somersetpub.co.uk
Thursday 1st December – Friday 23rd December
For ENQUIRIES please PHONE 01460 240906
THE VISITOR December 2016 35
HALFWAY H O U S E H O T E L Chilthorne Domer YE OVI L Prop. Paul T. Rowsell
Pre-Christmas Party Menu 1 Course £14.95 2 Courses £19.95 3 Courses £24.95
Christmas Day Lunch
The MUDDLED MAN Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to
Lower Street, West Chinnock Tel: 01935 881235
Pre-Christmas Dinners Group Dinner Bookings 2 Courses + Coffee - £16 * 3 Courses + Coffee - £18
Game Casserole Sunday 18 th December Christmas Day Dinner
Drink on arrival, 7 Course Meal, Half Bottle of Wine - £60 10% OFF for groups of 10 or more • Children under 12 half price — Booking Essential —
Boxing Day Buffet - £15
Book early for Christmas Day & Boxing Day and RECEIVE A DISCOUNT “Our prices are frozen ... unlike our food which is fresh”
Two Sittings: 12noon & 3pm £55 Children (under 12) £14.95
Why not stay the nigh night?
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS PROMOTION 19 Excellent Ensuite Rooms
Sunday Carvery £9.95
LAKES & GARDENS – FREE FISHING FOR RESIDENTS
Tel: 01935 840350 • Fax: 01935 849006 Visit our website www.halfwayhotelyeovil.com Follow us on Facebook
GALHAMPTON
Starters
Neeps and tatties soup with whisky marinated chestnuts, served with honey oat bread Ham hock terrine served with crunchy piccalilli and sour dough bread Roasted butternut squash topped with grilled Taleggio cheese, with lemon and sage butter Cured dill gravadlax salmon placed on mustard dill mayonnaise, served with cucumber pappardelle Smoked duck salad with spiced dark plum compote and crunchy cos lettuce
Main Courses
Roast turkey with sausage meat and cranberry stuffing, served with roast potatoes, sausage wrapped in bacon, gravy, bread sauce and fresh vegetables Guinea fowl with redcurrant jus, served with a pancetta bean bundle, dauphinoise potatoes and fresh vegetables Cod loin steak with a herb crust and tomato and Pernod flavoured sauce, served with a side salad and new potatoes Colombian espresso and herb rub rump steak sat on dauphinoise potatoes and rich Madeira sauce, served with fresh vegetables Broccoli and leek stir fry with smoked cheese, served in a Savoy cabbage parcel with red and yellow pepper sauce, new potatoes and side salad
Desserts
Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Peanut butter cheesecake with cranberry jam Chocolate truffle terrine with caramelised Grand Marnier oranges and vanilla cream Caramelised pear and salted caramel tart with clove ice cream Cheese and port - Wookey hole cave aged cheddar, Dorset Blue Vinny, Sharpham’s Devon Brie, spiced chutney and biscuits
Two Courses £19.50 Three Courses £26
The
Lord Nelson
Rectory Lane, Norton Sub Hamdon Yeovil, Somerset, TA14 6SP Tel: 01935 881473
36 THE VISITOR December 2016
Dinner served at 7pm
If you would like to join us for a meal please book a table and let us have your menu choices by the 20th December, then feel free to stay with us for the evening’s entertainment.
Singer at 9pm
Feel free to join in whether you have eaten or not. Phoebe Fisher, fresh from her latest season on the cruise ships will entertain us with her soulful voice. A lovely way to get us in the mood for more dancing and celebration.
Disco at 10pm
A traditional disco to see us into the new year and beyond.
High Road • Galhampton • BA22 7BA Tel: 01963 440751
Welcome to WINCANTON
A CONSTANT WORRY about edge-of-town retail developments is the effect they could have on the town centre, a worry certainly shared by many Wincanton businesses and residents. With the Lidl and Morrison supermarkets on adjacent sites out by the A303 sliproad – and the Health Centre having relocated to the western edge of town – they fear that footfall in
the centre is on the wane. So on a cold Monday morning in early November I parked on the Carrington Way car park, still free and bright with autumn colours, and walked through the Co-op precinct to the High Street to see what what was there to attract shoppers and retain their custom. The brick arches fronting the precinct and the adjacent
Papertrees stationer and newsagent are all that remain of what was for many years Ireson Garage. Most of the garage, established in 1917, was demolished in the early 1970s to make way for the supermarket and small shops. Papertrees and the adjacent Wild Cardz shop
together cater for almost all stationery requirements, business as well as personal, and carry a surprisingly wide range of goods. Further up the High Street is The Cunning Artificer’s Discworld Emporium, ‘the only Discworld Emporium in the known universe’ according to its proprietor
Autumn colours provide an attractive approach to Carrington Way car park.
TEL: 01963 33521 THE VISITOR December 2016 37
ANDREW BARCLAY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BUTCHERS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 Email: andrewbarclaybutchers@gmail.com
SELLING QUALITY LOCALLY SOURCED MEAT, POULTRY & GAME AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
ORDER YOUR MEAT, POULTRY & GAME NOW FOR CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR WE ALSO STOCK A FINE SELECTION OF LOCAL CHEESES, HOMEMADE CAKES, DESSERTS, PIES, PASTIES SCOTCH EGGS, MILK, JERSEY CREAM, MERE FISH FARM PRODUCTS ANNAMMA’S CURRY SAUCES, COOKED MEATS A SELECTION OF DRY & SWEET BISCUITS & CONDIMENTS
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT DURING THE YEAR AND WISH THEM A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR ORDERS TAKEN FOR OUR MEAT FROM NORTH CADBURY VILLAGE SHOP & MAIDEN BRADLEY VILLAGE SHOP WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS
38 THE VISITOR December 2016
Welcome to WINCANTON
Bernard Pearson who creates and sells all manner of wonderful objects that owe their inspiration to the writings of Terry Pratchett. And Andrew Barclay’s traditional family butchers shop which is noted for locally-sourced meat, poultry and game and is now taking Christmas orders. Also on this side of the road are a wholefoods store, a pet shop and a shoe shop amongst others. Across the road the old cottage between the Dolphin Inn and the entrance to the Quaker Meeting House and Peace Garden is occupied by Babes 2 Teens selling children’s clothes. Nearby the Wincanton Cobbler not only undertakes shoe repairs but also
The renowned Preview ladies fashion boutique displays a stunning selection of clothing and accessories.
stocks a wide range of leather goods, sports bags, walking sticks and umbrellas, and the Divine Wines off-licence and café with an interesting selection of wines, beers and spirits. Strolling down the High Street I was impressed by The Small Cake Shop which stocks everything that aspiring Mary Berrys could ever need when baking. And by Clementina’s hardware shop, packed with everything imaginable to keep the home and garden functioning smoothly. This long-established ironmongery has occupied these premises since 1936 after moving from the Market Place. Beyond is Wincanton Sew and Sew
Opposite, the Applegarth Emporium has recently been given a facelift and one of the front units is now occupied by another ladies boutique. This small shopping mall was for
LATE NIGHT OPENING
Friday 2nd December until 7.30
Bespoke • Corporate • Events Parties • Weddings • Sympathy
selling dress fabrics, haberdashery, cottons and suchlike, and the renowned Preview ladies fashion boutique with its stunning selection of clothing and accessories.
Couture in Colibri Blue from PrimaDonna
Local & Nationwide Deliveries
01963 32367
11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA
The Visitor
CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
7 Market Place Wincanton ▪ BA9 9LL
01963 32808 ▪ www.amour-lingerie.co.uk THE VISITOR December 2016 39
Welcome to WINCANTON ARS
END
CAL
Wild Cardz
DIAR
IES
35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU • Tel: 01963 31234 CARDS FOR ALL OCCASIONS Christmas Cards for all your Relations & Friends • Boxed Cards • Charity Cards Wrapping Paper • Gifts • Party Items • Confetti Latex Balloons and Helium Foil Balloons • Crepe / Tissue Paper Table Decorations • Napkins • Stocking Fillers • Wool & Accessories Christmas Party Bits: Poppers - Hats - Earrings - Spray - and much more!
TOYS CAN BE ORDERED FROM OUR COLOUR BROCHURE www.wildcardzwincanton.com
A. J. WAKELY & SONS LTD Independent Family Funeral Directors • Golden Charter Pre Paid Funeral Plans
• 24 Hour Service
• Private Ch apel of Rest
Golden Charter Brochure available on request Clive Wakely Dip F.D. M.B.I.E.
The Old Police Station, Carrington Way WINCANTON BA9 9JS Tel: 01963 31310
40 THE VISITOR December 2016
Wild Cardz of Wincanton are selling charity cards that benefit Wincanton’s local Community Hospital (formerly Verrington Hospital). Why not purchase some lovely cards and help this worthy cause?
Welcome to WINCANTON
many years Woodcock’s motor garage and petrol station but was converted into shops in 1986. A few yards down the road the Lemon Tree delicatessen was displaying a tempting range of interesting foods. O n t h e Ma rk et Pl a ce and dwarfed by the tower of Wincanton’s Town Hall is Lovington Bakery and CafÊ, opened last summer in what was previously a home furnishings shop. Also on the Market Place is the post office which stocks a wide range of gifts and a mouthwatering choice of luxury chocolates, Amour Lingerie with plenty to appeal to females (and their partners), Jerry’s Electrical supplying anything from a small lightbulb to a large washing machine, and the Ironmongersibthorp Contemporary Art Gallery full of potential gifts for
the artistically-inclined. Incidentally, in the Market Place the plinth of the lamp on the site of the parish pump is being used to display contemporary artwork until the cast-iron lamp standard is replaced. Beyond, on Church Street, is Camelot Photographic which undertakes digital processing and sells a range of camera and photography accessories and has two studios next door for photographic shoots. Also on Church Street is the Reed and Russell florists shop which can provide local and nationwide floral deliveries. So the centre still boasts a comprehensive range of shops too numerous to mention all by name (I hope I haven’t offended any I’ve left out), and with Christmas fast approaching, Wincanton is a good place to purchase festive food, drinks and gifts. Many of the
The brick arches fronting Papertrees stationer and newagent and the shopping precinct behind are all that remain of what was for many years Ireson Garage.
businesses are specialists, pleased to spend time offering information and advice about their goods. The town is well provided with pubs and cafÊs for when you need some sustenance and a chance to take the weight off your feet, and car parking is still free. A good time to visit and boost the town centre’s footfall could be Friday 2nd December
when many of the shops will be staying open until 7.30pm and entering into the festive spirit. Although my focus has been on the town centre, there are other attractions for shopper on the business park at Lawrence Hill, off the roundabout by the A303, which is home to the extensive showrooms of Cullingford Carpets and Rochford Garden Machinery,
In the Market Place the plinth of the lamp on the site of the parish pump is being used to display contemporary artwork until the cast iron lamp standard is replaced.
Fri LA day TE 2 n NI dD G ece HT mb er
ď ˆ Personalised Christmas Cards ď ˆ You supply the photo – we can do the rest! New Christmas stock now in ...
HALF PRICE BOOKS ď ? NATIONAL BOOK TOKENS ď ?
Books to suit everyone! Humour, Cookery, Fiction, Childrens Books + more! ‘Pass My Parcel’ Amazon Collection & Delivery Parcel Point Promotional Supplies Banners ď ˆ A-Frames ď ˆ Posters ď ˆ And More
33 High Street • Wincanton OPEN: Monday – Friday 6.30am – 5pm, Saturday 6.30am – 2pm, Sunday 6.30am – 12noon
Tel: 01963 32356 • www.papertrees.co.uk
A wide selection of fabrics from ...
Clarke & Clarke ď ? Prestigious iLiv ď ? Fibre Naturelle ... and more – or supply your own
SHOWROOM at SJH CARPETS Tythings Commercial Centre, Wincanton Tel: 01963 824418 Open: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm and ...
sure to mea r made ear before u o y R ORDE for the new y ce gs ½ pri s Curtain and get Linin s a Christm Saturday 9am – 1pm
The Workshop has moved! For workshop measures and enquiries
THE VISITOR December 2016 41
WINCANTON CK E PI HOM
S DAY OLI LL H A N UP O
The long-established Clementina’s ironmongery business has occupied its premises on the High Street since 1936 after moving from the Market Place.
and on Bennetts Field Trading Estate, on the right of the road into town, which has the recentlyopened Gardeners Hidden Shed specialising in plants for healing and wellbeing but also stocking plenty of other plants, shrubs and garden sundries. On the left in Southgate Road, SJH Carpets’ showroom and MMS Soft Furnishings which makes bespoke curtains, blinds and cushions, and then The Tythings Commercial Centre, on the left at the start of the one-way system, houses the Myakka warehouse full of furniture and
Spoilt for choice!
Visit our new showroom to see our extensive range of flooring
■ Carpets ■ Vinyls ■ Naturals ■ Woods Wincanton ■ Laminates ■ Tiles Also in store MMS Soft Furnishings Curtains & Fabrics ■ Blinds ■ Roll Stock ... vinyls & carpets now available
Stair Runners by Roger Oates
★ Free Estimate ★ Free Measuring ★ Professional Fitting by our own Expert Fitters ★ Friendly and Personal Service ★ Competitive Prices “Just nice people to do business with”
SJH CARPETS, Southgate Road, Wincanton 01963 824418
n .T ow
GENTS & BOYS HAIRDRESSING at ... The Barber’s Shop WINCANTON Memorial Hall Mondays 1.00pm – 5.30pm Thursdays 9.00am – 5.30pm Saturdays 8.00am – 12noon
MILBORNE PORT Town Hall: Wednesdays 10.00am – 6.00pm SPARKFORD Village Hall: Fridays 12.45pm – 5.45pm
Lance Wells & Mike Baker − State Registered ★ PHONE for a HOME VISIT ★ 01935 814074 or 07767 027798 mobile
42 THE VISITOR December 2016
Lidl
Southgate Road Wi nc
Also at: High Street, Tisbury 01747 871178
Fire Station
Tythings Centre
NEW SJH
OLD SJH
MER CUSTO K R P R CA A
Morrisons
furnishings from far-off countries. And on the hilltop north of the town stands Wincanton’s bestknown attraction, its racecourse, with forthcoming race days on the 1st, 13th and 26th December, Boxing Day. Within its extensive grounds is a pay-and-play golf course where the pro shop sells lots of goodies for ardent golfers, and around 500 yards beyond the racecourse is Otter Nurseries, a garden centre with plenty to offer the green-fingered and a wide range of garden furniture and homeware goods on display. It seems that the edge-of-town businesses complement rather than compete with those in the town centre. Roger Richards.
Wincanton Silver Band
Get into that festive spirit by attending the Christmas Concert at Wincanton Memorial Hall on 11th December 2016 at 3pm. The programme will include plenty of Christmas favourites and will feature the training band. Admission is £6 on the door. The band is always open to new players and meets every Monday and Thursday at 7.30pm in the Hopkins Building, Southgate Road, BA9 9RZ. If your child is learning a brass instrument or you fancy learning an instrument, join them on Mondays at 6.30pm. More information about the band can be found at www. wincantonsilverband.co.uk
Clementina
Gifts for you and your home
CHRIST M TREE L AS IGHTS
Ornaments • Clocks • Watches • Photoframes • Silver Ware etc. Practical Gifts for Home and Garden LATE House Signs: Wood and uPVC NIGHT Fireside Accessories – Halogen and Electric Heaters OPENING Flogas Stockist – Kindling Wood and Logs – Coal – Torches Friday 2nd
We wish all our customers a Happy Christmas! s!
December
HIGH STREET • WINCANTON • Tel: 01963 32249
Support your local POST OFFICES and VILLAGE STORES
If you are struggling for a ‘useful’ gift idea, Waltons Post Office Gift Cards are ideal; Available for any occasion including Christmas, they can be spent in over 60 different retailers. Another very acceptable gift idea is a magazine subscription - there are titles to suit all ages and interests. Waltons of Mere have a varied selection of gifts on sale including soft toy bears, high intensity rechargeable torches from £12.99, train sets from £19.99, and a comic 2ft high toilet roll holder at £79.99! Chocolates are very popular for Christmas and the early bird special tins of Roses at only £5, or two tins for £9, is excellent value, so hurry whilst stocks last. Waltons boast one of the best selections of greeting cards in the area - prices from just 89p for a single card through to boxed cards. There is a delightful selection of gift wrap too!
North Cadbury Village Stores
New owners Sarah and Adrian Turner look forward to welcoming customers old and new to North Cadbury Village Store. Orders are now being taken for Christmas turkeys supplied by local butcher Andrew Barclay of Wincanton and Montgomery Cheese can now be ordered online. There are a host of Christmas treats to be had including mince pies, puddings and cakes plus speciality chocolates and tins of festive biscuits, which also make very pleasing gifts. Alongside groceries and green grocery the store offers a range of local produce - fresh, meats from Andrew Barclay; Montgomery’s potatoes and their famous cheeses; Wadman’s famous Jersey cream; Longman’s
MERE POST OFFICE &
Offer a wide range of ...
CHRISTMAS IDEAS
Sweets & Chocolates Toys & Gifts Magazine Subscriptions Gift Cards for all occasions ‘Roses’ 2 Tins for £9 or ... £5 per Tin while stocks last Pay Your Bills Here
01747 860245
Glastonbury Post Office
Glastonbury Post Office is run by Gerald Cross together with one
of his two sons. Having run this busy post office for over twelve years Gerald and his five staff are well known to their customers and offer a friendly and helpful service. If you are planning a winter break don’t forget you can get your travel insurance, travellers cheques and currency from the Post Office. Christmas is looming so remember to send your overseas parcels and cards off in plenty of time.
To beat the Christmas rush, make sure you post before the recommended last posting dates
UK
Tuesday 20 December Wednesday 21 December Thursday 22 December
Second Class and Royal Mail Signed For First Class and Royal Mail Signed For Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed
Saturday 3 December Wednesday 7 December
Saturday 17 December
Africa, Middle East Cyprus, Asia, Far East (including Japan), and Eastern Europe (except Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia) Caribbean, Central & South America Greece, Australia, New Zealand Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland Canada, Finland, Sweden, USA Austria, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg
Monday 28 November Monday 12 December
Airmail to Operational BFPOs Airmail to Static BFPOs
International Standard (formerly Airmail) Thursday 8 December Saturday 10 December Wednesday 14 December Thursday 15 December Friday 16 December
British Forces Post Office (BFPO)
The Village Stores Sarah & Adrian Turner welcome you to
An extensive range of goods and services available including ... Local Meats Cheese Bread Groceries Off Licence Newspapers and Stationery
CHRISTMAS LINES AVAILABLE Season’s Greetings to customers past & present
Open: Monday – Friday 8am – 5.30pm • Saturday 8am – 1pm • Sunday 9am – 1pm T E L E P H O N E • G A S • E L E C T R I C I T Y • W AT E R • G I R O T R A N S A C T I O N S
Telephone 01458 831536
Music and Wine, Sunday 4th December at 3pm, Caryford Community Hall. Music by folk duo Mitchell and Vincent. Informal wine tasting hosted by The Somerset Wine Co. Tickets £8 (inc. six tastings or glass wine) from The Market House or www.caryfordhall.co.uk
CREWKERNE
Art Exhibition entitled ‘Travels and Wanders’, Saturday 10th December from 11am - 4pm at the Unitarian Hall, Hermitage Street, Crewkerne. Free entry.
DITCHEAT
Christmas Family Bingo, on Thursday 1st December at Ditcheat Hall. Doors open 7pm, £2 entry includes tea, coffee, squash & biscuits. Any funds made for church.
MONTACUTE
Triangle Trust Christmas Bazaar on Saturday 26th November at The Memorial Hall, 2-4pm. Free entry. Seasonal stalls, Crafts, Cakes, Toys, Teas, Father Christmas & more. 01935 881718.
Open 7 Days a Week
35 High Street Glastonbury BA6 9HG
CASTLE CARY
STOKE-SUB-HAMDON
NORTH CADBURY • Tel: 01963 440201
GLASTONBURY POST OFFICE AND CLASS CARDS
December Notice Board
Christmas Tree Festival, St Catherine’s church, 17th & 18th December, 10.30 – 4.30. Hot drinks and nibbles. £2 admission, accompanied under 11s free.
MONEYGRAMS • BUDGET CARDS
NEWSAGENT
Farmhouse butter and a selection of Fudges and Border biscuits. Useful services offered include colour and black and white photocopying, laminating and mobile phone top-ups. They are also agents for Puffin Dry Cleaners and shoe repairs. A local delivery service is offered (minimum £20.00). Wishing everyone a merry Christmas!
STATIONERY • ACCOUNTS • STAMPS
Waltons Post Office, Mere
GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • PENSION PAYMENTS
ADVERTISE YOUR CHRISTMAS / JANUARY EVENT HERE!
A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 for 20 words. Send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP. All entries to be prepaid. Extra words 30p each. Deadline for January issue, Friday 2nd December.
Say you saw it in The Visitor
THE VISITOR December 2016 43
Mike’s Music GUITAR TUITION
All ages and abilities Wishing all our students ... A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!
01460 75663
Christmas Lighting Up Night
This year, Crewkerne’s annual Lighting Up Night will take place on Friday 25th November. Events start at 5.30pm and Santa arrives at 7pm to switch on the lights! There will be music, a craft fair, Children's Christmas Hat Competition, market and charity stalls, Phoenix Brass Band, majorettes, carol singing and Santa's Grotto! Children of 0 - 3 years and 4 8 years can use their skills to design a christmas hat with a pom pom/Christmas theme at the
Children’s Christmas Hat Competition. Entry is free. Just turn up on Lighting Up Night outside the Town Hall!
Mike Ayers
Mike Ayers, a registered guitar tutor, has been teaching the guitar for over 20 years. Many readers will know Mike from when he and his wife ran Mike’s Music in the George Precinct, Crewkerne. Mike teaches all ages and abilities from his home in Crewkerne - including up to exam standard.(Higher level pass grades 6 and upwards gain points towards UCAS.) Whether you want to learn the guitar for pleasure or to pass an exam, give Mike a call on 01460 75663. Merry Christmas to students past and present.
Robert Frith Optometrists
With Christmas fast approaching it is often easy to forget our eyes, however Robert Frith Optometrists are always available to help. Whether it is a new pair of spectacles for the festive parties, contact lenses for
44 THE VISITOR December 2016
the occasional night out, or whether your new year’s resolution is to take better care of your health, Robert Frith can offer all these services. With 3D OCT retinal scanning, more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of eye conditions is possible. The Acute Community Eyecare Service (ACES) is offered for patients with a Somerset GP should you have a sudden eye problem. The practice is also constantly updating their frames so whatever style you desire they can help. Call 01460 72964.
AllGlass & Glazing Ltd
Jock and Lesley Messer founded AllGlass & Glazing Ltd three decades ago, and today the business remains proudly run by the family. AllGlass stock a wide range of glass which can be cut to your requirements, and they manufacture sealed units on site. If DIY is not for you, AllGlass offer a glazing service (including putty glazing) and supply and install windows, doors and conservatories. They use quality products from reputable suppliers
such as KĂśmmerling, Smart, Hurst and Solidor. Their staff are fully employed, no deposit is required and installations come with a ten year fully comprehensive, insurance backed guarantee. See www.allglass-glazing.co.uk to find out more.
experiences or some lovely walks. The paintings cover several years and express Jenny’s pleasure in the great
outdoors. Sometimes she tries to see a different aspect. She always enjoys using colour. Her exhibition is in Crewkerne on
Saturday December 10th, from 11am until 4pm at the Unitarian Chapel Hall, Hermitage Street. Entry is free.
Art Exhibition ‘Travels and Wanders’
Crewkerne Unitarians are hosting an exhibition by Jenny Goddard, who lives in Southampton. After a break from art doing other things, she restarted with a GCSE and then an A level, which she studied at evening class. Since then she has been painting for about 13 years. Recently she has been doing life drawing, but mostly she paints landscapes or slightly impressionistic flowers. Jenny feels she has yet to settle on ‘her style’, but as she believes creating art is an everevolving experience, the artistic flexibility is really an opportunity. This exhibition mostly results from travel
Regency Mobility have an extensive range of wheelchairs and rollators in addition to their range of scooters, rise and recline chairs and other mobility aids. Find them in Falkland Square, Crewkerne.
One Stop Mobility
SCOOTERS
CHAIRS
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NEXT TO COSTA COFFEE AND WITHIN EASY REACH OF MAIN CAR PARK
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THE VISITOR December 2016 45
Antiques Bazaar
Firmly fixed on the Crewkerne Christmas calendar is the very popular annual tree lighting ceremony at Antiques Bazaar, Crewkerne. This year it is planned for Thursday 1st December at 6.30pm in conjunction with Crewkerne Lions Club who are presenting the ‘Tree of Light’. This great event offers local residents the opportunity to sponsor a light in memory of a loved one no longer with us. The lovely locally grown tree will then be prominently displayed outside Antiques Bazaar on the corner of Kithill for the whole of the Christmas period. The lighting up ceremony will be supported by Crewkerne Community Church who, after a blessing from the Minister, will then lead the carol singing. Antiques Bazaar and The Home Bakery will remain open, with complementary mince pies and mulled wine on offer. If you would like to sponsor a light, please contact Crewkerne Lions or Antiques Bazaar to find out more.
Then Santa arrives on Saturday 3rd December. He will be in his grotto at Antiques Bazaar from 10am ‘til 4pm. Bring along your youngsters for a bit of fun - £3 entry and a gift for every child. Christmas; Live music; Cafe Culture; Antiques Bazaar open all day; Make a day of it. For more information please contact Antiques Bazaar on 01460 77121. More details regarding Crewkerne Lions Club can be viewed at www.crewkernelions. org.uk or www.lionsclubs international.org If you feel you would like to know more about Lions and possible membership please contact Lesley Chudley on Crewkerne 72035.
fillers and more! A Christmas club is available to spread the cost. For the home there is always a superb choice of bedding, towels and curtains. Both ready-made or made-to-measure curtains are available plus voiles, nets, poles and accessories. The family pet is well catered
for with pet food, beds and toys, and for the wild birds - seeds, fat balls, nuts and feeders. Making your Christmas cake? Cake tins can be bought or a tin hire service is available. Boards and decorations are also on sale. DIY, garden requisites and much more can be found at Homefayre. Open 7 days a week.
Homefayre
Getting ready for Christmas? Homefayre have an extensive range of Christmas lights, decorations, Christmas trees, crackers, cards, giftwrap and festive tableware. There are gift ideas galore: torches, photo frames, mugs, boxed glasses, toys, stocking
The Contura woodburning range of stove, designed and manufactured in Sweden. Modern, free-standing feature stoves built to the highest standard of quality, with a high energy output and outstanding style that is unlike any other on the market. For a comprehensive choice of woodburning stoves visit the showroom of R. A. Wicks in Merriott.
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46 THE VISITOR December 2016
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SHERBORNE is noted for its many and varied high-class shops, and one of the things the Chamber of Trade always does particularly well is to stage a special Festive Shopping Day. This year it takes place on Sunday 4th December from 10.00am until 4.00pm and is sure to attract families into the town.
HOMEFAYRE
Getting ready for Christmas! The girls at Homefayre in Crewkerne.
With music in the streets to create a festive atmosphere, a Christmas Tree Festival, a Farmers’ Market for stocking up with seasonal food and Father Christmas to keep the kids happy, the day promises to be a highly enjoyable occasion for doing a bit of Christmas shopping. Sherborne is the ideal
The Parade at the bottom of Cheap Street is home to attractive shops, cafés and the Conduit.
WE ARE OPEN SUNDAYS and every day for ...
Christmas Lines ... now in Trees Crackers Festive Tableware Toys Gifts Giftwrap Cards
Ready Made Curtains
Towels Cushions Cushion Covers
Beautiful Bedding We stock a superb range of ... Duvet Covers, Sheets, and Pillow Cases All Sizes All Colours
Pet Food
Dried & Tinned Wild Bird Food Huge range of Pet Beds & Accessories
D.I.Y. & Garden Requisites • Bakeware • China • Arts & Crafts
Fine Fragrances for Men and Women
— OUR STOCK CHANGES REGULARLY —
Homefayre, 22 Market Street, CREWKERNE 01460 72650
Also at
Buy & Save, High Street, CASTLE CARY (Not open Sundays) 01963 350969
THE VISITOR December 2016 47
place to browse for unusual gifts – arts and crafts from all over the world, ladies designer clothes, jewellery, fancy foods, books, sheet music and CDs, traditional and contemporary home furnishings, antiques and curios . . . the choice seemed endless when I went window-shopping recently. I was interested to see that the little shop of Godden & Curtis on Greenhill not only sells and repairs TV and audio equipment but also transfers old cinefilms, slides and photos into DVDs, which could make nice personal Christmas gifts. With the special shopping day being a Sunday there will, of course, be services in the Abbey. Looking back at the countless Sherborne articles I’ve written for the Visitor over the years I realise that I’ve scarcely mentioned the history and architecture of the Abbey, regarded by many as the finest building in Dorset. As Christmas is about much more than just buying and giving gifts, this is a good time to rectify my omission.
48 THE VISITOR December 2016
Sherborne Abbey is regarded by many as the finest building in Dorset.
Briefly, when Aldhelm was appointed the first Bishop of the West Saxons in 705 he chose to erect his cathedral on this site in Sherborne, which had been a settlement since Roman times. Initially it would have been a very small building but was enlarged by later Saxon bishops. In 998 the secular canons of the cathedral were replaced by monks of the Order of St Benedict, and when the bishop’s seat was subsequently moved to Old
Sarum (and later to Salisbury) the building became a Benedictine abbey. After the dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII it became Sherborne’s parish church, and the adjacent monastic buildings became a free grammar school, the forerunner of Sherborne School. Although Aldhelm’s original church was completely rebuilt and enlarged by the abbots in Norman times, some Saxon
stonework survives. In the 15th century the tower and east end of the Abbey were rebuilt in Perpendicular style and the fanvaulted roof, probably the first to be built with such a wide span, is the Abbey’s most impressive internal feature. But there is so much more to see, from medieval glass in St Catherine’s Chapel to the 20th century stained glass by John Hayward in the Great West Window, from the remains of the medieval font in the Bow Chapel to the large Victorian font just inside the south door to the Abbey. And monuments a-plenty, including a fragment of 12th century Abbot Clement’s tomb portrait, the 16th century altar tomb of John Leweston and his wife, and the 17th century baroque monument to the Third Earl of Bristol, John Digby, and his two wives. It’s worth buying a guide to the Abbey which points out and explains the many features of the building and includes much more of its history than I have had space for in this article.
The Abbey was extensively restored in Victorian times, and an elaborate memorial in front of the Abbey commemorates the life of George Wingfield Digby of the ‘new’ Sherborne castle who had contributed handsomely to the restoration. He was 60 when he inherited the Sherborne estates from his uncle Edward in 1856 and gave much to the Abbey and town including building the Digby Hotel, now a boarding house of Sherborne School, and founding the Blackmore Vale Hunt.
Sherborne Shoe Repairs ★ ★
★
2 Swan Yard Sherborne Tel: 01935 817978
OLD SHAMBLES VINTAGE European Furniture Decorative Items & Curios Commissions Undertaken Stockists of Specialist Paints
— Painting Techniques Workshops — An elaborate memorial in front of the Abbey commemorates the life of George Wingfield Digby of the ‘new’ Sherborne castle who had contributed handsomely to the Victorian restoration of the Abbey.
Plus an eclectic mix of home interiors
South Street, Sherborne • 01935 507240 | 07584 844110 www.oldshamblesvintage.com
THE VISITOR December 2016 49
To the right of the Abbey, on the path leading to Cheap Street, is Sherborne’s excellent museum which contains more about the history of the town and Abbey and a touch-screen display of part of
Antiques Fairs
•
Chasty Cottage Antiques
•
Saturday 17th December Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1
Future Date Saturday 21st January 01963 370986 www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk
North Dorset & South Somerset
PREMIER ART SHOP
Gifts to the budding and professional artists this Christmas
Liquitex Stockist * Picture Framing Greeting Cards * Craft Materials
12 Cheap Street, Sherborne
Tel: 01935 817100
The little shop of Godden & Curtis on Greenhill sells the latest TV and audio equipment and has a workshop on the premises for repairs.
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The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, DT9 3LN (Through Archway by Half Moon Inn)
Tel: 01935 817111
www.SimplyBathAndBed.co.uk * info@SimplyBathAndBed.co.uk 50 THE VISITOR December 2016
the Sherborne Missal. This is one of the finest medieval illuminated manuscripts, dating from around 1400 and containing the service of Mass for the whole year for use at the Abbey’s high altar. A few door down Digby Road opposite the Abbey is Sherborne Tourist Information Centre where you can find details of the many events happening in and around the town between now and Christmas. Not only are the helpful staff a mine of information, they can also book overnight accommodation for you, sell you tickets for events and offer you a good range of charity Christmas cards, books, gifts and souvenirs of local interest. It’s open from 10.00am till 3.00pm daily except Sundays. Alternatively, you can telephone on 01935 815341 or log on to www.sherbornetown.co.uk. If you’re browsing round Sherborne’s shops you’ll notice that many are in interesting old buildings. Above the fronts of some of the shops and cafés on The Parade at the bottom of Cheap Street is some fine Victorian
ironwork, and to the right of and above the arch leading to Swan Yard is the former Swan Hotel, once an important Sherborne coaching inn with extensive stabling for horses. Further up Cheap Street the shops at 36 and 38 with the exposed timber framework occupy an 18th century building that was originally one house. And the attractive group of buildings facing the top of Cheap Street has its origins in the 16th century but each has been substantially altered or rebuilt since then. Beyond them are The Julian, in bygone days a hospice and almshouse, and Sherborne’s oldest pub, the George, dating from the early 16th century. The other hostelry at the top of Cheap Street, the White Hart, was originally a dwellinghouse but has been a pub since the 1830s or thereabouts. Round the corner at the junction with the A30 is the former Angel Inn which still bears a sign above the door stating that it was ‘Licensed to let post horses’. It had been a busy
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The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel
Tel: 01935 817111
Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com See our new website: www.sherbornekitchens.com THE VISITOR December 2016 51
coaching inn since the 1750s, with a service on alternate days to London and another running between Bath and Weymouth. An advertisement for the inn in 1825 offered ‘good post horses with careful drivers, superior Clarences and Broughams on hire, hearse and mourning coaches’ as well as ‘neat wines and foreign spirituous liquors’. However, by 1865 it had closed. Roger Richards.
More information regarding the Festive Shopping Day ...
Santa Claus is coming to town! Christmas lights begin to twinkle, carol singers abound and locals and tourists alike make merry once again for Sherborne Festive Shopping Day! The historic town of Sherborne will once again light up for Christmas with a free-entry 'Love a Local Christmas' Festive Shopping Day on Sunday 4th December from 10am–4pm. Organised by volunteers from Sherborne Chamber of Trade, supported by Sherborne Town Council, Battens Charitable Trust, Adanac, Abbey 104 FM and both
This attractive group of buildings at the top of Cheap Street has its origins in the 16th century but each has been substantially altered or rebuilt since then.
of the town’s Rotary Clubs, the event offers a great family day out, while raising awareness for many local charities. Sherborne’s Festive Shopping Day is always well supported as the town puts on a whole host of different musical, fun and entertaining activities. The main shopping area of Cheap Street is closed to traffic allowing street performers, choirs, bands, orchestras, carollers and dancers to entertain, with Abbey 104 FM holding centre stage on The Conduit. This year Digby Road will also
be closed to traffic to allow the festivities to take place in a wider area than ever before. Santa will be taking up residence in his Grotto outside the Post Office, and every little visitor he sees will receive a gift from him (in return for a small entry fee of £2). A shop window competition organised by The Slipped Stitch will keep little ones busy as the grown-ups enjoy the atmosphere in town (and perhaps treat themselves to a mulled wine or two!) Visitors will of course be able to browse Sherborne's wonderful shops, all offering great ideas for Christmas gifts, treats, pampering and entertaining as well as countless places to enjoy something to eat or drink in the many coffee shops, restaurants and pubs the town has to offer. Just five minutes from the town centre, Castle Gardens' award winning Christmas display will be open until 6pm that day. Visitors can also stretch their
legs with a gentle stroll around historic Sherborne, learning more about its ancient past with Blue Badge Guide Cindy Chant. The walk starts at 2pm outside the Tourist Information Centre in Digby Road and costs just £5. There is no need to book – just turn up! Whatever the weather! As always, the highlight of the event will be a festive and fun parade along Cheap Street, which everyone is invited to join, culminating in the illumination of the Conduit Christmas tree. The day ends just in time for visitors to join Sherborne Abbey's annual family-friendly Christingle service at 5pm, which is always a wonderful occasion. Keep up-to-date with the latest news on Facebook and Twitter @shopinsherborne
Sparkling ArtsLink Flicks in December!
Watch out for ArtsLink’s Flicks Sparkling Showing of Absolutely Fabulous on Wednesday 14th December. They will be serving sparkling refreshments and your ticket could win you a bottle of champagne! Tickets are £6 and are available in advance from the Sherborne Tourist Information Centre on Digby Road, 01935 815341. For upcoming events and ways to get involved with ArtsLink visit www.sherborneartslink.org.uk Printed copies of the ArtsLink programme are available at distribution points around the town.
Flame Lily Tearoom The CROWN Inn
Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EP CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH Bookings now taken Christmas Party Menu also available
Friday
FISH ‘n’ CHIPS ... only £5
December Music
Fridays Wed 7th: Blues 5.30 – 7.30 Wed 14th: Christmas Jazz Wed 21st: Flatland Boogie Band Selected PINTS Fri 23rd: Sam Francis ... only £2 Wed 28th: Open Mic’
Tel: 01935 816115
52 THE VISITOR December 2016
Within Acreman Street Antiques Centre Light Lunches – Snacks – Cakes – Teas and Coffees Gluten Free & Vegetarian Options Available
AFTERNOON TEA GIFT VOUCHERS an ideal gift 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PH Tel: 01935 815568
BREWERS GARAGE LTD AIR CONDITIONING • DIAGNOSTICS TYRES • MOT SERVICING • REPAIRS Telephone
01935 812720
Western Ways Yard Bristol Road, SHERBORNE, Dorset DT9 4HR
The
Pub Pages
B E ER & SK ITTLE S P. A. BAXTER
PUBS! PUBS! We all like pubs! I am assuming you too like pubs, dear reader, for here you are reading this. We do like pubs, do we not, and hopefully my reader will agree that over the years this column has tried to do just a little bit to get the great British public to spend more time at this most British of institutions. How often do you visit your local? Do you play for a skittle, pool or darts team there, or even just the occasional casual game of cribbage? Do you indulge in a team sport based there? Does someone at your local organize coach trips? If not, would you think about doing it yourself? The pub is the hub of the community, and whilst I do not visit the local as often these days, my contemporaries and myself do spread our favours around at the weekend, visiting pubs who advertise in this very magazine and those found in the good beer guide. Have you heard of 'What Pub'? Take a look on the Interweb, it's CAMRA sponsored and as unbiased as one might hope, for the updates on the pub, facilities, beer etc. are all submitted by (unpaid) CAMRA members such as myself, to the local branch, who then approve it for publication and update. Go on; take a look at your local now on 'What Pub'. As someone with a nearobsession of skittles who plays in both summer and winter, inevitably I have our team visits mapped out for us. Half the dates will of course, be at our home alley, so we are out in rain or shine, hot or cold, and light or dark. I have to admit it still feels a little strange going out to play when it is still light, and at midsummer will even be on our way home in the twilight! Irrespective of the time of year, what does this all mean to the
license holder? Well it means guaranteed trade on a skittle night; 16 blokes or ladies, plus a few hangers-on keep that till ringing merrily and the pub busy. Have you ever been in an almostempty pub for an evening? Yes; no atmosphere, and bearing in mind it is one of the few places us reserved Brits will talk to just about anyone, it can make for a miserable few hours (or even minutes, for who wants to stay long in an empty pub?) I make no apology for having a little go at a female beer writer last month for her endorsing 'Bud', however, on a more pleasant note I surfed in again on the web-site of Jane Peyton recently, a lady about whom we did more than a cursory mention about 18 months ago as she was the instigator of 'Beer Day' - June 15th. Why was this particular date picked you ask? Well it was the date of the signing of the Magna Carta - a good enough reason I think. Jane has done a lot for us drinkers, amongst other things promoting beer drinking to those who perhaps do not realise its benefits. She has videos on Youtube testing a few ales. They are worth a look; she's even drinking pints - clearly my type of woman! Incidentally Jane claims that champagne was first created in England, and even gives a date. I feel further investigation is necessary in this area - but Jane, surely it would not have been called 'champagne'? This drink does nothing for me, and a friend once described it as 'cheap cider topped up with lemonade' which is either accurate or unkind depending on whether one likes or dislikes it. Speaking of cider, although not a drinker of this traditional West Country drink, I was delighted to see that 'The Unicorn' a pub situated well inside the Visitor area at Bayford just east of Wincanton, has won the CAMRA 'Real Cider Pub of the Year'. Having won the CAMRA Heart of Wessex award on more than one occasion, this award is the real crowning glory for it is not just the local award this time but a national one, and my congratulations go to Richard Cummins and his partner Jayne Wallace for their dedication to the cause. I guess we must visit; they may even convert me back to the juice of the apple. Grumpy old git I may have become about the impending time of year, but luckily for me it is also when some interesting beers appear at the supermarket and more importantly, appear on the beer engines at the local pub.
Perhaps those of you out there in Visitorland are looking for a prezzy for your loved ones that are drink or pub related. If that is the case, then may I offer some suggestions: A subscription to CAMRA - the most successful consumer organisation in Europe with over 180,000 members who continue to fight our corner some forty plus years on from its
inception. CAMRA do a 'Gift Membership' and one even gets £20 worth of money-off vouchers from Wetherspoons, a monthly newspaper 'What's Brewing' and a quarterly magazine 'Beer', as well as reductions on various publications. There is also the opportunity to join the CAMRA Members Investment Club, which continues to thrive (over
Lamb & Lark Russell & Diane welcome you to the Inn keepIng at Its best
Limington nr. Ilchester • ba22 8eg Tel: 01935 840368
A typical country inn we are pleased to offer …
Tuesday Evening – Homemade Pie and a Pud £10 Wednesday Evening – TWO x 8oz Rump Steaks £20 / Sirloins £25
Friday Lunch & Evening – Fish ‘n’ Chips £6.95
CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU available ... limited spaces / dates
Sunday 18th December CHRISTMAS UIZ In aid of St. Margarets Hospice Lots of Raffle prizes ~ all welcome CHRISTMAS JUMPER DAY!
NEW YEAR’S EVE
FOOD ... served from 6pm – 8.30pm Live Music with Michael Buble Tribute 8.30pm – 9.30pm Followed by Loose Rock – 60s, 70s and 80s music £10 a ticket to include buffet – on sale now Taxi Service Available – reasonable rates Visit our website for full details
www.lambandlark.co.uk
THE VISITOR December 2016 53
They Say
That since his move to Lower Metherell, it would appear that Brian Padfield has been brushing up on his Cornish vocabulary, and we at The Visitor would like to wish him ‘Oll an gwella’, and ‘Meur ras’ for the Callington News.
That Wincanton did a sterling job with their poppy displays on the lamposts throughout the town. That in Portugal, after careful consideration, it’s highly unlikely that the local delicacy of toasted rodent will be on the festive menu at Casa Santo in Atalaia this Christmas.
That Congratulations go to Yeovil Town Ladies Football Club on clinching the FA Womens Super League 2 title and promotion to top of tier of Women’s Football. That Gerald Burden of Wincanton has taken 4 months to work out how to assemble grandson Ethan’s pushchair, it may take another 5 years to go out for a walk. That in Somerset jumble sales are big business, especially when it comes to sales in Norton Sub Hamdon.
That Graham Gould, speaker (and singer) at October’s Queen Camel Tuesday Group, regaled attendees with his Elvis impressions to wind up a very loud meeting.
That ‘scammers’ have recently been contacting unsuspecting individuals in Visitorland, so if someone calls to tell you your computer has a virus hang-up! That Labradoodles are normally referred to as gun dogs - but after a recent escapade in Martock with its owner’s dentures, a gum dog may be more fitting.
That it has been noted that Anne Brodie of Norton Sub Hamdon gets confused between a firework and a firelighter.
That floor work was called to a halt at a recent pilates class in Norton sub Hamdon with the arrival of a rather large spider.
That after two long weeks of attempting to retune his Sony Trinitron TV, and save the programmes, Yeovil’s Mr Teasy ‘Malcolm’ Weasy, was glad he’d chosen to enter the coiffeuring profession instead of becoming a television engineer. 54 THE VISITOR December 2016
Pete Lambden & Staff welcome you to .....
168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL
“Well my friends are gone And my hair is grey I ache in the places Where I used to play”
FIRST PERSON to tell me the song that those lines are taken from gets a free drink. Last month John penny from bradford abbas was first to identify the beatles and “Revolution”. Lots to tell you about from the top of the hill this month. Firstly, a great couple by the name of Martin and evelina became Mr & Mrs parsons. We had a super day here helping them celebrate. Nice people, nice food, a few drinks and a bit of a dance made for a lovely day. Well done you two! paul House came up to The Quicksilver for a pint not realising that his family had organised about 70 of his friends to come and help him celebrate his 60th birthday: a great night. Congratulations Paul. Now then, the bingo has proved to be very popular here at The Quick. If you had told me a few years ago that we would be having bingo at the pub I would never have believed you, but between now and Christmas we have 3 dates for your diary. We have an eyes down on the 27th of November, then again on the 18th of December, and as a little bonus we have a super prize bingo night on the Thursday 22nd of December: 7pm start for all those dates. On the first Friday in December, the 2nd, we have Mr. D’arcy live in the bar to help me celebrate my birthday - always a good night and who knows I might just buy you a drink . On Friday 23rd the fabulous stORM will be playing their last gig as stORM. It promises to be a great night. Tickets are £5 and available from the pub. Finian Mcgurk will be here on Friday 30th to help us kick off the new Year’s Weekend and on new Year’s eve itself we have a great party lined up for you! We have a great band, scoot, and we will be serving a hot buffet during the evening. Tickets are limited priced at £20, get yours now! On sunday new Year’s Day we will be open from 12noon – 4pm and we will be serving sunday Roasts. We are taking bookings now and advise an early take up. So what could be better a nice family walk followed by sunday Lunch at The Quick to bring the new year in. bOOk nOW! And finally ... a fellow came in to The Quicksilver and asked for a pint of cider. I said “That’s four pounds please. Looks like rain”. He said “Yeah, tastes like rain for four quid”. tOOt tOOt !!!
BOOKINGS
01935 424721
The
Pub Pages
£21,000,000 worth of shares and returning a substantially higher amount on investment than the high street banks, at the time of writing. (Investments can go down as well as up, etc.) Next; how about the CAMRA Good Beer Guide? Definitely something every beer drinker should have to keep in the car on a day out, and packed with not only pubs where good beer is guaranteed, but facilities in the pub, mealtimes, access, family friendly etc. There are many publications from CAMRA, and if there is just one I would personally recommend it's the new edition of Britain's Best Real Heritage Pubs. Yours for a penny under a tenner, or two quid off it you're a member. Take a look at their website. Go on; what are you waiting for? The next Christmas present I would
The
heartily recommend is the fantastic book Played at the Pub - the pub games of Britain by Arthur Taylor. Published by English Heritage, I cannot say enough about this book as it is packed with exactly what the title says; and having met Mr. Taylor, I can confirm he is most definitely a genuine enthusiast for the genre. Whether you are a darts player, pool player, skittle enthusiast or a fan of Toad in the Hole(!) you may be surprised at the origins of the games and how they began to appear in the Great English Pub. Father Christmas is looking forward to receiving your orders even as I write this. I wish you all you wish yourselves for the festive season and remember, as much as we love the pubs, they need to be used by you and me regularly. Yes, a pub is for life; not just Christmas. Cheers!
AROUND THE
H O U S E S
IN CASTLE CARY The George Hotel has a gin and prosecco bar with a choice of over 40 gins and numerous proseccos ... all day brunch available at The White
Wyndham Arms
KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK SOMERSET TA12 6AT
Delicious homecooked food served lunchtimes & evenings – come in and try OUR NEW WINTER MENU
Traditional Sunday Roast choice of 3 meats served 12 noon – 6pm
CHRISTMAS MENUS
Bookings from Monday 5th December – Friday 23rd December
~ Lunchtime ~
1 course £9.95 │ 2 courses £12.95 │ 3 courses £16.95 │ 4 courses £19.95
~ Evening ~
1 course £13.95 │ 2 courses £15.95 │ 3 courses £18.95 │ 4 courses £23.95
LIVE MUSIC
Saturday 26th November Marlow stewart guitar / vocalist – 9pm start Saturday 17th December Joe Mitchell guitar / vocalist – 9pm start
Rob & Lin Rigby and Marly the Dog look forward to seeing you
Tel: 01935 823239
For menu details visit: www.wyndhamarms.com
“OPEN ALL DAY – EVERY DAY”
The
Pub Pages
Hart Inn ... Handbags and Gladrags is the theme for New Year’s Eve at The Natterjack, Evercreech Junction ... Chef Simon Barrington Jones can be found once more at Truffles Brasserie, Bruton where there is a surf and turf option on the 25th and 26th November with lobster and prime fillet steak ... and there’s a great New Year’s Eve package at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague - lovely food, live music, fireworks and a free taxi home (within a 10 mile radius of the pub). Bombing on to Bayford there is always a warm welcome at The Unicorn Inn, a traditional country pub offering well priced tasty food ... at The Dolphin, Wincanton, Tim Pitman will be singing live on the 10th of December ... the Star Trek Beyond movie will be showing on Wednesday 30th November at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham ... and Bleedin Hartz will be playing at The White Hart in Sherborne on the 3rd of December.
Yomping on to Yeovil we find its Housey Housey at The Quicksilver Mail, where bingo has really taken off ... sad to see The Castle Inn at West Coker has closed its doors ... Di has made a good recovery and is back in harness at The Lamb & Lark in Limington where it’s time to get out your Christmas jumper ... and The Red Lion at Babcary are pleased to announce the opening of their farm shop on the 26th November. Nipping on to Norton sub Hamdon where we learn Mark and Helen of The Lord Nelson are also the proud owners of a cafe in Merriott called ChatterCino ... the question is being asked ‘just what is the secret ingredient of the salad dressing’ at The Cat Head, Chiselborough ... always a good pint at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock ... new lunch time two course menu now available at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton ... enjoy a pint of Teignworthy Gun Dog at Dinnington Docks, Dinnington ... rambler groups most welcome at The Black Swan in Langport where the ‘unusual’ burger bar is a topic of conversation ... and in Aller, The Old Pound Inn have just introduced a Sunday carvery. Finally ... don’t forget to send your ‘seasonal greetings’ in our next issue, published on the 15th December, plus all of your Christmas / January happenings! Early deadline Friday 2nd December.
ve ar’s E ER e Y w N Ne T DINc E M R GOU Live Musi night at Mid 1R0A-mDIUileS s k r o e Firew Taxi Hom e e Fr 5
£8
Every Monday StEak Night Ribeye, Pork Loin, or Salmon with Salad and Fries for only £10 per head
Every tuesday SiMPLE SuPPER Delicious 2 Course Set Menu for only £10 per head
Every Thursday MOuLES FRitES Christmas/ New Year Issue of The Visitor ... ideal for
Season’s Greetings Opening Times New Year Events Burns Night
all you can eat £14
Christmas Party Menu SOME DatES StiLL aVaiLaBLE
Published: Thursday 15th December Deadline: Friday 2nd December
Tel: 01963 351256 ♦ info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk THE VISITOR December 2016 55
Gliderol Garage Doors
Gliderol roller doors are lightweight, space-saving and very easy to operate, whether you choose manual operation or the luxury of touch-of-a-button remote control operation. They are very hardwearing, virtually maintenance free and fully finished in a range of 12 colours to match any house style. They don’t need a door frame, so you can have a wider entrance to your garage too. A new mini-roll version is also available for where headroom is restricted.
House & Home
Gliderol’s stylish, high performance insulated roller garage doors are ideal for helping keep the warm air in and the cold air out: the perfect solution if you use your garage for more than the car. They are made from strong, durable pre-finished foam filled aluminium sections and, because they come pre-installed with smooth running remote control operation, are effortless to operate. For further details contact G H Sales on 01935 891414. (See advert in Motoring.)
Gliderol Garage Doors, no need to paint, quiet and easy to use.
Tel: 01823 729564
Showroom at: Blackdown Garden Centre, A38 West Buckland, Nr. Wellington, TA21 9HY
Don’t fall victim to bogus HMRC Council Tax e-mails
South Somerset District Council has become aware that bogus emails are being received by some South Somerset residents which allegedly are from an HMRC Team. The e-mail claims that there is a refund of Council Tax due and asks the recipient to click on a link and enter their bank details. Only South Somerset District Council can issue refunds of Council Tax. In South Somerset, if you pay your Council Tax by direct debit we already have your bank details. If you pay another way we will send you a refund cheque. This is also true for Business Rate payers. If you get an e-mail about a Council Tax refund from someone saying they are from an HMRC team asking you to click on a link to get your refund, stop and think. Do not click on the link and do not give out your bank details. Councillor Peter Seib, Portfolio Holder for Finance said, “This is a particularly wicked scam. We are passing on this warning but if anyone comes across something similar please do let SSDC and the police know about it. “Many scams are highlighted to the Council and we try to inform residents when they are brought to our attention because ultimately it's you, the resident, who may lose out.” If you have given over personal details, we would advise you to call the Police straight away on 101 and report the matter as an identity theft scam. The Police will also direct you to the Action Fraud helpline on 0300 123 2040.
Somerset: Last orders for your free installation
Businesses and residents in Somerset who are not able to receive Broadband speeds of over 2Mb/s can apply for a subsidy towards their wireless broadband connection. But hurry because the Connecting Devon and Somerset scheme is ending on the 30th November and applications must be received before this date. The scheme will provide a subsidy of up to £500, in the form of a voucher code, to fund the installation of a new superfast Wessex Internet connection. Wessex Internet packages start at just £25 per month and offer speeds of up to 50Mb/s in their operating areas of Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset. They have recently been named as the 2nd fastest non-FTTP provider in the UK, by Thinkbroadband’s speed test undertaken by customers. Dorset and Wiltshire residents have until Spring 2017 to apply for the subsidy. If you would like further details please call 0333 240 7997, or to apply for the voucher go to wessexinternet.com/subsidy_ scheme
Which chimney, which fire?
If you are looking at purchasing a new fireplace or stove, it’s important to know which product is suitable for your home before you start shopping around. Valor has a comprehensive range of stylish designs suitable for all homes. The type of chimney or flue you have, whether a Class 1 brick chimney, a Class 2 pre-cast flue, or a pre-fabricated chimney stack usually dictates your choice of fire. If your home has a brick built chimney, then it’s suitable for all
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gas fires. Why not invest in a gas fire from the Valor Inspire Range or consider a solid fuel stove?
House & Home
Valor’s stoves include technology that helps secondary combustion and burns less fuel meaning less
trips to the fuel store! Many modern homes though will have been built with a precast flue and can be identified by either a metal flue cowl or a raised ridge terminal on the roof. These flues tend to be very shallow in depth so a slimmer fire is often required. The Slimline range of convector and Homeflame gas fires from Valor are designed with good looks and heat efficiency in mind. Designs such as the slimline Petrus are contemporary in style and cleverly use reflective sides to give the illusion of a deeper fuel bed. For homes with a prefabricated flue, you will see a flue cowl on your roof; some being metal whilst others terminate through a short pot but without a chimney stack. These types of chimneys are suitable for most deep model fires and all slimline versions. The Valor Trueflame full depth convector would most certainly be a stylish choice. Available in a choice of design options in brass or chrome, it comes complete with a coal effect fuel bed that provides a realistic flame picture and glow.
Of course, homes without a chimney may benefit from an electric fire which is 100% efficient at the point of use, meaning no heat is wasted. This is good for the environment, as well as being good for your utility bills. For authenticity, the Valor selection of stylish electric fires incorporate truly believable flame effects created by patented holographic fuel beds. Alternatively, the sophisticated range of Valor
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THE VISITOR December 2016 57
House & Home
Inside Old Shambles Vintage of Sherborne. Here you will find a range of vintage furniture and home accessories. Specialist paint is on sale and paint technique workshops are held regularly.
Balanced Flue fires and wall heaters can be installed where no chimney is available providing you have a gas supply and an outside wall suitable to mount the fire onto. As these fires are room sealed, they are glass fronted and can sit on a hearth, be inset or wall mounted. For further information, visit
www.valor.co.uk or call 0800 028 6122. To find your nearest Valor Centre, please visit http://www. valor.co.uk/inspire/index.htm.
festive again. It is an expensive and consuming time of year but you want to do it right. Perhaps these tips can help you get in the holiday mood whilst saving some pennies, time or energy. Read on to find out! Decorate your home, your way! DIY Christmas decorations can be absolutely beautiful. If you don’t consider yourself to be the arts-and-crafts type, don’t despair! Many really effective decorations are simple to make. From simple paper chains to origami stars and tissue paper pom-poms, you will find lot of ideas in books or online. Wreaths, crackers and place cards are all possible! A few small purchases can lead to a lot of creativity: choose your kit wisely to maximise on what you can make. Visit your local craft shop and haberdashery to find unique
items whilst supporting your local community. Make your home your own! Create and give: If you feel that the fruits of your creativity are ripe and ready to go beyond your four walls, you may wish to make your own gift tags, cards or gifts! Thinking about giving people something handmade can be intimidating so if you need some reassurance, a good place to start is with a stencil. These can be bought or you can make them yourself. You can stick to the shape or pattern the stencil offers but mix up the medium and be more lavish with the colour if you wish. Use your ingenuity to create really beautiful patterns. You can make your creations as personal as you like; whatever you make will be unique. Arguably the best part about making your own is that the
Get yourself in the mood for Christmas!
It is hard to believe that it’s Christmas once more but, as 2016 nears its end, it’s time to get
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House & Home
recipient will know that you think they are worth your time, which is a heart-warming gift in itself.
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(01935) 823346
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Email: info@fitandfurnish.co.uk www.fitandfurnish.co.uk
DIRECTIONS: from Marks & Spencer head towards Court Ash Car Park and past The Pall Tavern. Showrooms 100 yards on the right. THE VISITOR December 2016 59
House & Home
need. Whatever you have to give can help; time, money or unwanted possessions can all make a difference. If you’re not sure where to start, check out local noticeboards or contact charities near you to see how you can help. If you know someone who may be lonely, perhaps you could pop in and see them. No matter how small your donation is, it will be of use. A by-product of this is how good it will make you feel. Enjoy it: It is very easy to become overwhelmed by Christmas as there is so much to do. Work and family commitments coupled with arrangements to fulfil and things to buy can lead us to feel we are being pulled in several directions while spinning
plates (perhaps literally for some!). When we are thinking about multiple things we may not be focusing on what is happening now. You’ve probably heard of ‘mindfulness’, the simple meditation practice encouraging us to ‘be in the moment’. Christmas could be a great time to try this, as we could be making some wonderful, life-long memories of our loved ones. If thoughts of other things do pop into your head while you are celebrating, or you worry you may forget something, make a note of it and return to it later. This may allow you to feel that you can relax and enjoy things more. Perhaps put a notepad and pen on your Christmas list!
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GARDENING
gaRDenIng MOntHLY by Richard Cumming
Short Days
Orchard Park
GARDENING this time of year can be challenging. The days are short and the ground is often anywhere between moist and wet in the morning leaving only a few hours that you can garden comfortably. Today was a good example of that; I needed to clear the leaves from the lawn but it was too wet to do anything sensible before the afternoon and then it got dark extra early. My usual technique is to mow over them then either box off the debris or rake it up and into the wheelbarrow. This mix of chopped leaves and grass clippings makes the most fantastic compost within 9 months. It could be even quicker if I looked after it a little better – you know, cover it to keep the temperature up and the moisture in. However, I do have an army of little helpers, namely worms. They multiply at an amazing rate, munching their way through the leafy material turning it into a friable mix for the other workers in the heap to breakdown further. A good compost heap should be teaming with life such as slugs, snails, woodlice, millipedes, earwigs and beetles along with fungi and
bacteria; there’s a lot going on in a compost heap! But Christmas will soon be here, and for a gardener the turning point of the year - the winter solstice. After that, you don’t have too long to wait before the days get noticeably longer and the quality of daylight gradually improves. Meanwhile, there’s loads to do. I love planting trees and have planted hundreds over the years so I can use National Tree Week (November 26th to December 4th) as an excuse to get something else planted! My tree planting, whether for myself or in the past for nursery customers, has included all sorts from dwarf Acers to giant redwoods and the cedars of Lebanon. Some trees are more memorable than others, and probably all of them mean more to me than to other people so I won’t go on about them. National Tree Week is a timely reminder to check the trees you have, check newly planted specimens to make sure they will survive the winter storms and if there is a chance to plant more, then do so! Some great village projects have used trees to create a legacy to benefit future villagers.
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Plant of the Month
Let’s look at all those wonderful plants that brighten our dull days and bring colour to our homes at Christmas. Whether you buy them as a gift for yourself or for others, there are a few guidelines that will help you make the right choice and look after them into the New Year. The starting point is the practical consideration of where the plant will sit: will it be light or dark, cold or hot? Most plants dislike being sat in a draught or having a dramatic change in temperature from day to night.
GARDENING
So what have you got? Well-lit but cool (10-15ºC) conditions are great for Azaleas, Cyclamen, Cymbidium orchids and the scented Jasmine. Humidity is good but overwatering is not. Cool growing plants generally use or lose less water. Place the plant on a tray or saucer containing a layer of gravel and keep that moist to create humidity around the plant. Cyclamen need their spent flowers removed; a little twist then a sharp pull will do it. Azaleas and Jasmine will naturally drop their old flowers. Warmer rooms where the temperature is more like 20ºC are better suited to plants such as Poinsettia, Schlumberga the Christmas cactus, Gardenia and Phalaenopsis orchids. Of these Poinsettias are the brightest but can be the hardest to look after
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as they hate draughts and overwatering with a vengeance. It is best to allow the top of the compost to dry out before dunking it in a bowl of water at room temperature for 10 minutes or so. The Phalaenopsis orchids prefer to be misted at the base of the plant where the aerial roots are active whereas Gardenias and Christmas cacti are more easygoing. There are also some flowering bulbs that can fill the room with scent or colour. Hyacinths that have made some growth will flower within approximately 3 weeks of being brought into the house. Fragrant multi-headed tazetta Narcissus ‘Paper White’ will develop a little quicker while amaryllis (Hippeastrum) need 10 weeks from planting to flowering. At this time of year you need to
buy bulbs that have already developed and are showing a bud. They will have been grown in cool conditions so will react quickly when brought into warmer temperatures. You can hold them back by moving them back into cool conditions. Planted in groups, bulbs can be so effective; finish off a shallow planted container with a covering of green moss to preserve moisture and make it all look special! Christmas plants make great gifts with Azaleas, Cymbidiums and Phalaenopsis top of the list. A simple gift wrap transforms them into something special!
Jobs for the month
Short days, wet weather and falling temperatures are not encouraging but if you can get out then priority is to protect any
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THE VISITOR December 2016 61
vulnerable plants from extreme weather such as frost or flood. Saturated soils can cause more damage than plain cold weather. Drying winds from the north will damage foliage stems and flower buds on early spring flowering shrubs such as Camellias. If it is practical to do so then horticultural fleece wrapped round and securely fastened is very much worthwhile. You can buy easy to use ready-made fleece covers that zip-up to provide good protection. Cloche covers need to
GARDENING
be well secured especially in the vegetable garden if you want to save precious crops from weather damage or feeding rabbits and pigeons. Reasonable sized pots and planters should be moved to sheltered spots, and raised on flat stones or pot feet to allow water to drain away. Frozen wet
Christmas Trees & Wreaths
compost can expand and split even the toughest pots. Bubble wrap round any pots you are worried about to give further insulation. Lawns always need some attention. The autumn feed should have been applied last month; this is low in nitrogen but high in phosphates and potash to
build strong roots and keep leaves healthy. It is too late to sow grass seed now but turf can be laid in all but frosty weather. It’s the right time to move or plant new deciduous trees and shrubs, but be careful with evergreens as you do not want to damage their roots. Next major job is going to be pruning and training. Older overgrown trees, shrubs or hedges can be brought back to shape by renovation pruning but I strongly suggest you do your research first
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to make sure you prune correctly. Whilst you’re there, check tree ties and stakes for any specimens that still need support. The veg garden is very quiet now, rough dig where you can, and protect any crops still in the ground from cold damage or pests; winter brassicas will be prime targets for hungry pigeons and rabbits! With Christmas on the horizon, I am adding a few new gardening tools to my Christmas list ... just in case!
Westonbirt Arboretum
The Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt is once again
transforming into a sensory winter wonderland, for its annual Enchanted Christmas event. One of the most visually stunning festive events in the South West, it will take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from the last weekend of November (25th – 27th) to the weekend before Christmas (16th – 18th December). Refreshments, including mulled wine and hot chocolate will be available. Tickets by advance booking only. For for more information call 03000 680400 or visit www.forestry.gov. uk/westonbirtchristmas
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PAPERCHASE
WITH THE SEASON of goodwill almost upon us I decided to make no mention of the Western Daily Press or the Western Gazette in this month’s column, despite having a clutch of cuttings from both papers that deserve critical comment. However, one from the 24th September issue of the Western Daily Press amused me greatly but I didn’t have space for it in last month’s column, so I’ll share it with you now. The news story was about Dorset dairy farmer Jason Barber who has diversified into producing Black Cow Vodka, a pure milk vodka made entirely from the milk of grass-grazed cows. After describing the production process the reporter must have sampled some of it, for in the next sentence he informed readers that ‘Jason has created the modern masterpiece of milk made from vodka’. The season of goodwill leads me to praise Mark Adler and Steve Eggington for nurturing Mendip Times into its 12th year of publication. This freebie has grown into a fine publication with more than 100 pages in full
colour each month and it continues to contain plenty of good local news stories and photos. It’s clearly popular because copies don’t lie around for long at the pick-up points in Shepton Mallet, Evercreech and Bruton. And to praise Andrew Lee and his team at the Langport Leveller for a monthly magazine that they rightly describe as ‘not just free but priceless’ and which has now reached its 74th issue. Unlike Mendip Times, the Leveller is mainly black-and-white with few photographs, but it packs a lot of local news and comment – some of it quite contentious – into its 60 pages. Although I have yet to see a copy, I suspect its younger sibling, the Somerton Sentinel, is in a similar mould. Praise, too, for Elisabeth Balfour and the team who produce The Dove for the Bruton area. Published ten times a year, it has now reached its 80th issue and is consistently full of community news and
LEFT: See the illuminated trees at Westonbirt Arboretum’s annual Enchanted Christmas event, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Booking essential. Photo: Paul Box.
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information. Like the Leveller it’s produced in black-and-white but with a very stylish design and layout. And praise for the Sturminister Newton Magazine Group which publishes the monthly full colour Unity magazine about which I wrote at length in the September Visitor. While sales of paid-for local papers are declining in the face of competition from on-line newspapers, demand for all these freebies appears to be increasing. I suspect this is because their content is written by local people
who know their area and the issues of concern and interest to local residents. I’ve complained before that the paid-for titles employ too few reporters and pay them peanuts, so they stay for a few months then go before they have had time to learn much about the area, the issues and the personalities. No wonder readers are turning to these genuinely community publications, and that local businesses are flocking to support them with advertisements. 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.
Solution to November
Sudoku
THE VISITOR December 2016 63
PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM
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Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE
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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
Oven Cleaning
Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc
www.misteroven.co.uk
The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE:
www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com
64 THE VISITOR December 2016
January Deadline Friday 2 nd December 01963 351256
Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners Covering Somerset and Dorset
AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Eco-Friendly Materials Used Experienced + Fully Insured Friendly Staff
Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145 www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk
Your advert reaching 60,000 readers
PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM
Transport & Storage
The key to all your storage needs!
Plumbing & Heating
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
High Street, Sparkford, nr. Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692
Roofing
Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 34 White Road, MERE, Nr. Warminster Wiltshire, BA12 6EX
Email: mead208@btinternet.com
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 F R EE EST IMATES
01747 840064
... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk
Services
GOOD POTATOES
Plan your 2017 advertising today! This 4cms x 2 column space costs just £53.95 per month including VaT ... in glorious technicolour! Call: 01963 351256 or Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk
DEADLINE for Christmas / January Issue ... Friday 2nd December
Caricatures for Special Gifts
Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor Gas Car and Van Rental • Competitive Prices
Anchor Hill Service Station wiNCaNTON 01963 32609
Fire & Security Alarms
THE VISITOR December 2016 65
Classified Ads
Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. For a Box Number please add £2. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.
✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.
Prize Crossword No. 362 Set by Frank Butler
senD COMpLeteD entRIes tO: the Visitor Crossword, p.O. box 1, Castle Cary, somerset ba7 7bg – to arrive by Friday 2nd December.
Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of The Visitor. Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address. 1
2
3
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5
7
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8 9
10
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15 18
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.................................................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................. Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5
Personal
www.country-link.org.uk COUNTRY liNK SOCial GROUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. Tel: andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918. JUST SOmERSET iNTROdUCTiONS. Bringing people together. Call alison Tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk
CUlTUREd ROmaNTiC malE, 69. interests include warm holidays & interiror design. Seeks slim lady for romance & fun. Tel 07792 420597.
Catering / Mobile Bars
HaRRY’S mOBilE BaRS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk
Services
HOUSEHOld & GaRdEN RUBBiSH ClEaREd, old sheds / oubuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.
Passport Photographs
PaSSPORTS - passports - passports also studio sittings, and golden weddings. any time to suit you. Easy parking opposite The Quarry inn. Tel: Graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.
Wanted
daVE BUYS all TYPES OF TOOlS, salvage, bygones and collectables. daves Tools - Tel: 01935 428975
POSTCaRdS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. Tel: Clive 01749 675456. all SPORTS PROGRammES and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456. R E d U N d a N T m O T O R m O w E R S , rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844. ONE HONEST pursuant of justice. No practitioner of law need apply. Box No. 18.
Storage
STORaGE for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.
Special Occasions
HaPPY BiRTHdaY “Hoddaz” Friday 2nd december.
HaPPY aNNiVERSaRY Sandra & Tony on monday 5th december
HaPPY BiRTHdaY “Chelly” on monday 19th december.
Standard Wooden Shipping Pallets FREE to a good home! Tel: 07854 905005 Small quantity - CASTLE CARY - to be collected
66 THE VISITOR December 2016
21
23 26
25
NAME ..................................................................................................................................................................... ADDRESS ..............................................................................................................................................................
14
27 28
29
30
31
32
across: 7.
8.
10. 11.
12.
13. 16. 18. 20.
22. 24. 26.
29.
30.
31. 32.
Rota puts a gill in the mix for the crocodile. [9] Bad man makes chum lose first round! [5] Good in France, about right on the south coast. [8] To be attached by heat with non-rio mix. [4-2] Mettle: the old king was with it! [4] Gentle sound to sing about wish. [8] Account he gave of pain. [4] Since he confused resident of Asian land… [7] Hide from real disturbance about article. [7] Lady described by Pepys as “witty and pretty”. [4] Drops of French odours. [8] Reaching without ring to every one separately. [4] Kidnap, dealing with bad cut. [6] I left United with Ann looking pale. [8] Employing us in first grade. [5] Tree-lovers stir rib roasts. [9]
9. Small thousand in one. [4] 14. Fifty-fifty, after we are in good health. [4] 15. Whee! Sable returning inside gap between axles. [9] 17. Rely about this recently? [4] 19. Turn into broken cone for dreamy music. [8] 21. Vote Ronald in as part of an atom. [8] 23. Is queer arrangement for gent? [7] 25. A stunted reflection has fasteners. [4] 27. Frank, able to and acted. [6] 28. Openings sent around after five. [5]
solution to Crossword 361
Down: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Later, mixed up alarm. [5] First soloist with topless finger in the choir. [6] Music for 2? Unable to add astatine and arsenic. [8] Lost tongue: An acorn is hardly hiding! [7] Rebound from choir, etc. [8] Tells us Ann’s swallowed the snow-leopard. [9]
tHe WInneR OF OuR nOVeMbeR CROssWORD was Mrs. Pamela Terry of Gillingham, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Scenes of Gillingham.