The Visitor Magazine Issue 405 August 2017

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

Issue 405 August 2017

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Fancy a scrum?

See page 4 for details.

In Passing ...

I

T’S HOLIDAY TIME again and many Visitorland families will be jetting off to foreign parts. But when we are holidaying abroad we often find ourselves in situations where we wonder whether we should be giving a gratuity and if so, how much. Several years ago a survey found that 40 per cent of us leave tips in Italian restaurants when there is no need to do so, and 16 per cent leave tips in Japan where gratuities are regarded as highly insulting. It concluded that ‘most British families don’t consider the additional cost of customary tipping in countries like the USA’ and that we will often pay over the odds by ‘not knowing expected tip requirements – or if it’s required at all’.

Expected tip requirements! What a nasty little oxymoron that is. A tip, according to my dictionary, is ‘a gratuity’, ‘a small money present, especially for a service given’, and gratuity comes from the Latin ‘gratuitus’ meaning ‘voluntary, spontaneous, uncalled for’. A tip might well be expected but it can’t be required.

It was certainly expected in the bad old days when the wealthy dispensed meagre amounts of largesse to the poor for menial services and the colonists bought the obedience of the natives. But times have changed, not just in the Western world, and it’s high time we made our tips unexpected and unrequired so that they can be clearly distinguished from bribes and backhanders.

Tipping might cause difficulties for British holidaymakers abroad, but it must certainly create similar dilemmas for foreign tourists in Visitorland. They must be mystified to find that some businesses – especially restaurants – in the so-called service sector add what appears to be a compulsory service charge to their bill. Any restaurant that cooked the meals but didn’t serve them would rapidly go out of business. So the prices on the menu should include the cost of putting the food on plates and bringing them to the table, just as the prices in the supermarket reflect the cost

of stacking the shelves and staffing the tills.

The whole point of tipping is surely to thank the individual who has provided a particularly good service, not to swell the coffers of the employer who may or may not distribute the money to the staff. And we have no need to feel guilty if we don’t leave a tip. Thanks to the national minimum wage and a raft of welfare benefits to help the low paid, nobody should have to rely on tips nowadays for a reasonable income for the job done.

In some countries and in some businesses it may still be customary to tip, but we don’t have to adhere to custom. Take my tip – if the waitress, taxi driver, hairdresser, barman or whoever has gone beyond the call of duty in providing excellent service, gladly and spontaneously give a small money present. If not, don’t!

NN.

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September Issue published Thursday 24th August Deadline Friday 11th August

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BP

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

Proprietor Helen Dunion

Accounts, Advertising, Editorial and Subscriptions Rachel Hancox Production Manager Jeff Farrow

© The Visitor Ltd. 2017

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

CONTENTS

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to those who enjoy a good scrum

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 50 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 29 CHILDREN’S WORLD - 42 CROSSWORD - 50 GARDENING - 44

GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY SHOW - 24

HIGHFIELD HOUSE residential care home Castle Cary - 7 HOUSE & HOME - 15

LEISURE & TRAVEL - 8

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 12 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.

MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 4 MOTORING - 43

MUSIC for the MONTH - 38 NOTICE BOARD - 9

PAMPER YOUR PET - 40

PAPERCHASE - 47

PHONE-A-FIRM - 48 PUBS - 36

SHAFTESBURY - 22 THEY SAY - 39

WINCANTON - 30

WINE & DINE - 27

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR August 2017 3

OUR FRONT COVER

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Castle Cary RFC are appealing for new players of all ages to make contact and join the club. In particular the red and blacks are looking for seniors to boost player numbers and try to establish a second XV once again.

The club is based on the outskirts of the town by the Brook House pub and Moff Motors garage – and is looking forward to a new season starting in September where they will be competitive and exciting to watch.

“We’ve always had good backs and now we have some young players with a couple of seasons under their belts in the forwards with a bit of steel too.

It promises to be a good season and we are already into fitness training to get up to speed,” said club Chairman Simon Clifford. “We are on the lookout for some new seniors, so former players who fancy a run-out, or total novices, anyone will be

really welcome at the club which now has some of the best facilities in Somerset.” He added that girls and women’s rugby is also recruiting and has launched an innovative collaboration with Wells and Tor rugby clubs to get games across the age-groups.

The club recently raised £40,000 to install floodlights on the main pitch and enhanced training area and is now looking at a project to create a bespoke gym area.

“We have a huge number of mini and youth players, more than 120 some weeks, and this will translate into the players of the future for the seniors eventually but we’re really keen to get people who used to play and for one reason or another – new job, or new family – to come back to the sport and either play, coach, ref or just help out. The rugby family needs you,” Clifford said.

Anyone interested can turn up to touch rugby sessions on Thursdays at 6.30pm or email somersetcomms@hotmail.co.uk with contact details.

Mentioned in

Dispatches

H.R.H. The Duchess of Cornwall becomes patron of new charity for older people The Silver Line Helpline

To coincide with her 70th Birthday, The Duchess of Cornwall has agreed to become Patron of The Silver Line Helpline, a charity launched by Dame Esther Rantzen in November 2013. The Helpline offers information, friendship and advice to older people around the clock and all over the UK, with its free, confidential service which is open 24/7.

Dame Esther said “We are absolutely thrilled to have Her Royal Highness’s support for our work and we would like to wish her a very happy 70th Birthday.

The Duchess has an understanding and empathy for older people who are so often forgotten and undervalued in today’s busy world. She cares about them, and values them as we do. It is a real accolade for a

young charity which is not yet four years old, and a tribute to the work of our team that we have been recognized in this way.

We know that we transform the lives of people, many of whom spend their lives in solitary confinement in their homes, never asking for help from anyone else because they have too much pride, and don’t want, as they tell us, to become a burden.”

The Silver Line has already received nearly one and a half million calls from older people around the country, and in addition reaches out to 3000 isolated and vulnerable older people with friendship calls from trained volunteers, The Silver Line Friends. In addition, staff seek to link callers with resources in the community.

Sophie Andrews, the CEO, said “To have the support of The Duchess of Cornwall for our crucial work will assist us enormously to spread awareness of the charity’s services, so that we can reach out to all the vulnerable older people who need us. Our callers tell us we are a life-line, restoring their confidence, and reassuring them that they are valued. The Patronage of Her Royal Highness will help us send a message to

lonely older people that we as a society genuinely care about them, and we look forward enormously to working with her.”

Professor Patrick Geoghegan, Chair of the charity, said, “I have spent my career working to help older people, firstly in the NHS and now as Chair of this crucial new charity. We at The Silver Line believe that there is no “sellby date” for older people, we treasure them as a crucial resource of life experience and unique memories. The Patronage of The Duchess of Cornwall will strengthen us in our work, and assist us to spread that message, that loneliness is a killer destroying not only quality of life, but mental and physical health.

We are determined to work with other charities to fight the nation’s epidemic of loneliness blighting the lives of millions of older people.

The Silver Line (0800 4 70 80 90) is the only free, national, confidential helpline open every day and night, offering information, friendship and advice to older people. It was launched in November 2013, and to date has received over 1.45 million calls, of which 80% are phoning for the first time each month.

Currently, the helpline receives

on average 10,000 calls per week, and two thirds of calls are received overnight and on the weekend, when other services are shut (and which often refer their callers to The Silver Line on their afterhours answerphone message).

68% of callers contact the helpline because they are lonely or isolated, 90% live alone, and 54% say they have no one else to speak to. Around five per cent of older people calling the helpline report present or historic abuse.

The cost of calls to the helpline,

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THE VISITOR August 2017 5

Mentioned in

Dispatches and The Silver Line’s other friendship services, are paid for by the donations it receives.

Just £5 (plus standard network charge) will pay for 1 call from a lonely older person to the helpline. To donate £5, text ALONE to 70555 or visit: http://www.thesilverline.org.uk/ donate/ For more details on The Silver Line, visit their website: www.thesilverline.org.uk

Langport in Bloom Judgement Day

RHS Britain in Bloom is a nationwide community gardening campaign to transform cities, towns and villages. It is a campaign that Langport has embraced and you may have noticed that Langport has been looking increasingly colourful over the last few weeks, culminating in the SW in Bloom judges' visit on Tuesday 18th July.

Two experienced judges from Britain in Bloom had a guided tour around Langport with representatives from the Langport Area Business Group and Langport Town Council.

Importantly, it was not just about the flowers and the judges were also looking at the general street scene, commitment to environmental issues and community participation.

“Langport in Bloom” was one of the 59 South West entries seeking a coveted RHS gold medal and Langport is up against Clovelly, St Issey and Ash near Martock.

The sun shone and Langport looked truly festive. The Town Council, businesses, community groups, residents, shops, youth groups and schools had all put time, imagination and effort into making sure that the jewel of the Somerset Levels looked its very best. In anticipation of the judges’ visit, Langport had been thoroughly cleaned and decorated. Windows washed, lawns mowed, shop fronts painted and much more.

The Town Council had ensured that the verges had been cut and roads swept. Transition Town Langport and the Scouts had carried out a litter pick. Shop and business owners decorated their

Bramley Care residents enjoying a trip to Shearwater.

shop fronts and residents had decked their gardens, doorsteps and window cills with floral displays.

Langport artist, Donna Vale, had created signs and wooden flowers which could be found strategically placed around Langport. The Langport Flower Club had created a wonderful display under the town clock and Somerset Art Works had loaned the Langport Stores a wall hanging for the shop front. Huish and Langport’s Youth Group’s flags were flying up and down the high street, Langport Library's herb garden was on display and the newly restored Duchess of Cocklemoor motored by on the River Parrett. Finally, led by Kate Gibbins of Windmill Farm Flowers, volunteers had planted up tubs, baskets and containers to ensure that Langport truly was in bloom.

The plants were generously donated by Kelways Nursery, Merricks Farm and Windmill Farm Flowers, with volunteers

giving up their time and expertise to set up and maintain the displays.

The judges commented on the fantastic community effort and were impressed by the creativity exhibited around the town. There is now a wait until a decision is reached. The results will be announced on October 5th in Torquay. Until then, fingers crossed and keep watering the containers about town. To maintain this momentum, Langport Area Business Group has made a bid to bag a cash boost from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative for this community project.

Bramley Care Experts in Care

Bramley Care offers a choice of care to enable older people to choose the right care for their needs.

Within Bramley Care there is Bramley Home Care, an independent Home Care agency operating alongside two local residential care homes: The Old

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Telephone: 01935 478357 31 Princes Street, Yeovil, Somerset 6 THE VISITOR August 2017

Mentioned in

Dispatches Rectory in Stalbridge and Bramley House in Mere.

Bramley Home Care offers care solutions that enable older people to remain living in their own homes. It considers the person and the home they live in and how it can support and promote independence through their services while clients maintain their dignity, privacy and respect.

When it is no longer possible for older people to be cared for in their home Bramley Care residential homes work within the Gold Standards Framework ensuring residents receive a high standard of care and that their families are supported.

For more information about

Bramley Care visit www. bramleycare.com or call 01747 855844 to discuss your requirements.

Youth Social Action Funds Awarded to Local Groups

Somerset Community Foundation has awarded its first Youth Social Action Fund (YSAF) grants to four Somerset community groups. The YSAF is part of the national #iwill fund which encourages young people to engage in social action – such as campaigning, fundraising, and volunteering. The groups that have benefited from the first round of awards are: The Wells City Football Club; Ilminster Entertainment Society; Action Track in Taunton; and The Taunton East Development Trust.

The next deadline to apply for a grant from the Youth Social Action Fund is Friday, 11th August. For more information or to find out how to apply, call Somerset Community Foundation on 01749 344949 or email: info@somersetcf.org.uk

Ilminster Youth Theatre, part of the Ilminster Entertainment Society, at their panto.

South Somerset Careline gives that little extra support to people who want to remain living at home independently for as long as possible while bringing peace of mind to their family and friends.

Do you ...  Live alone or sometimes feel at risk?  Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents?  Worry about their safety in an emergency?  Want to help them maintain their independence?

Careline provides help at the touch of a button, which can be worn as a pendant or on a wrist strap, and dials through to our team 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

Through Careline, you can enjoy the independence of living in your own home, secure in the knowledge that emergency help or advice is available at your fingertips.

We offer a free demonstration and if you are happy with it, our staff can fit the unit for you immediately.

Contact us on 01935 479815 careline@southsomerset.gov.uk www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk Initial connection / setup fee £32.85* Hire and monitoring £3.84 per week *waived if on certain benefits

THE VISITOR August 2017 7

Haunted / Histories presents the Somerset Ghost Walk Weekend, September 1st – 2nd

If you love a good ghost story, clear a space in your diary on the first weekend of September.

Organised by heritage ghost walk specialists, Haunted / Histories, the Somerset Ghost Walk Weekend promises two days of folklore and storytelling in some of the most famously haunted locations in the South-West.

The weekend begins on the evening of Friday 1st September, with a visit to the Battlefield of Sedgemoor, reputedly the single

most haunted location in the South-West, to discover what countless ghost stories reveal about the slaughter which took place here and the bloody retribution that was subsequently meted out.

The following evening, Saturday 2nd September, the weekend continues with an exploration of the beautiful Quantock Hills to uncover the prehistoric origins of much westcountry folklore whilst visiting the sites of some of Somerset’s most enduring ghost stories, including those associated with Since 1992, Hansons have been running their popular Sewing & Craft Workshops. Call today to book one of the remaining places available for the Autumn term.

BINGO

Friday 1st September 2017 Grove Buildings, Church Street Mere, BA12 6DS Affordable Aerial Expertise

Variety of Quality Prizes including Family Ticket for Haynes International Motor Museum

Fun for all the family

8 THE VISITOR August 2017

Baltonsborough Show Bank Holiday Monday 28th August

Every year Baltonsborough Village puts on a ‘Village Show’.

The show has been running for over 100 years – this year is the 111th and we are told that the show is the largest village show in Somerset. Last year over 3000 people came through the gates.

This year’s show promises to be one of the best ever. They have a fantastic line-up of displays and attractions again this year. There will be approximately 50 stalls featuring village clubs & societies, local and national charities and traders. If you would like to have a stall please contact David Aldridge: email him at gunners63@btinternet.com or call 01458 851232.

Food will be available on the field from ‘Ditch Diggers’ gourmet burgers etc. Teas, cakes and sandwiches in the Village Hall.

There will be a ‘Beer Tent’ on the field and a wide variety of local live musicians on stage all afternoon.

The farm section this year will

‘After a Busy Day’ by Anita Jeram is available from Martock Gallery as an official collector’s edition print.

‘Big Love’

by Anita Jeram

Doors Open 6.45pm • Eyes Down 7.30pm

Specials  Raffle  Refreshments

07789 991120

the infamous murder at Dead Woman’s Ditch.

Encompassing history and archaeology along with ghost stories and folk tales, the Ghost Walks aim to explore the way in which the various stories interweave with their environment, both influencing and being influenced by the historic landscape.

‘Somerset has a wealth of haunted heritage’, explained Haunted / Histories’ Dan Broadbent. ‘Through a telling of the ghost stories and folklore associated with these sites, we hope to shine a unique light on the history of the region. It doesn’t matter if you’re a believer in the supernatural, a sceptic or you just love a good yarn, we promise a unique experience exploring these remarkable, atmospheric landscapes’.

Tickets for each event are £12 and spaces are strictly limited.

For full details and to book, visit www.hauntedhistories.co.uk. You can also book over the phone (subject to a £1.50 booking fee per transaction) on 0333 666 3366.

Organised by Mere Carnival Committee with proceeds to Carnival Funds CARNIVAL DAY on SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER

OFFICIAL COLLECTOR’S EDITION PRINTS Edition size 495 • Mounted size 405mm x 405mm Framed in a white-washed effect frame • Framed price £125

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

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

be much larger and will include an enlarged poultry section.

There will be the usual Companion Dog Show (entries on the field from 12.30).

The marquee will be open as usual for the ‘Flower, Vegetable and Handicraft Show’. Show schedules and entry forms are available now in the Village Shop.

For the children, there will be entertainment from magician Richard Ballinger and Fire Eater / St re e t E nt e rt a ine r Sim o n Chaney as well as the usual bouncy castles and fairground attractions.

The annual ‘Grand Draw’ will be held on the field and tickets will also be available before the day.

Don’t forget the annual ‘Road Run’ which starts at 11am on the morning of the show and the ‘Rainbow Race’ for the kids at 4pm. Details from Kay Franklin: kayanddavid1@gmail.com or call 01458 851167.

Gates open at 12noon and admission is still only £1 for adults and 50p for children.

If you would like more information or would like to participate in any way please contact: Mark Tinker, 01458 850121 / m.tinker@tesco.net or email David Sanderson davidsanderson936@gmail.com

Bowlore Medieval take over the Palace for Bank Holiday Weekend, 26th – 28th August, 10am – 6pm

Finish off the school holidays in style at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells from Saturday 26th August until Monday 28th August with entertainment from the larger than life Medieval re-enacters of Bowlore.

Head along to find out more about what life was like when the Palace was first built, watch thrilling weaponry displays and even try your hand at archery and sword-fighting if you’re feeling brave!

Activities and demonstrations on offer throughout the Bank Holiday Weekend include: longbow, crossbow, weapons

demonstrations, combat displays, sword lessons, historical talks, battlefield medicine, hands-on weapon and armour displays, medieval tented encampment, have-a-go archery with lifesize 3D animal targets and thrilling fire-arrows.

The group will set up camp on the South Lawn of the Palace for the whole weekend and they’ll be ready to answer your questions, help you try on some hugely heavy chainmail or even introduce you to their tiny owl!

You're sure to find a combination to entertain and astonish any age and maybe even a new skill to learn!

Events included in admission and under 5's GO FREE.

August Notice Board

Pictured ‘The Stand Off’, one of the artists’ works submitted for this year’s Bruton Art Society exhibition.

The 64th Annual Bruton Art Society Exhibition

The 64th Annual Bruton Art Society Exhibition runs from Saturday 19th August to Saturday 26th August in the Memorial Hall, Kings Bruton School, Bruton BA10 OED. Open daily including Saturday and Sunday 11.00am – 5pm. Entrance is free. Founded in 1953, the Society attracts artists from all over Somerset and neighbouring parts of Wiltshire and Dorset,

both amateur and professional.

The venue is a great location to find affordable art by local artists.

There is free parking in Kings Bruton School car-park. Visitors are asked to vote on their favourite picture. This keeps children just as amused as adults, making the venue a great place to take budding young artists during the school holidays. There are also judge's prizes for abstract, portrait, still life and landscape.

TRENT

Annual Flower & Craft Show on Saturday 12th August 2017.

Open to the public at 2.30pm.

Entrance £1.

ADVERTISE YOUR SEPTEMBER 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 pre-paid.

Extra words 30p each. Deadline for September issue, Friday 11th August.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Chill-Out Somerset For all your refrigerated trailer requirements, outside events, etc.

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

THE VISITOR August 2017 9

Somerset Sight’s Country House Car Boot

Sunday 10th September brings Somerset Sight’s bi-annual Country House Car Boot at the beautiful Yarlington House, Wincanton. Count and Countess Charles de Salis, Patrons of Somerset Sight, kindly hold this much loved event raising funds so that Somerset Sight can continue supporting visually impaired people across the County. Bookings for pitches are now being taken, so don’t miss out if you would like to be part of this wonderful event.

Pitches: £30 with proceeds to Somerset Sight. Please contact Holly on 01823 366147 or

holly.sutton@somersetsight.org.uk The Car Boot opens at 9am, early bird entry £5: entry £3 from 10am.

Take a walk on the wild side: Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy a day finding out all about garden creatures on Tuesday 8th August

Wimborne-based Knoll Gardens has invited wildlife experts to take part in its annual garden wildlife survey and they will be on hand from 10am – 3pm to help visitors and volunteers identify as many species as possible during this year’s annual count.

Guided butterfly and dragonfly walks will take place late morning

SOMERSET FESTIVAL of TRANSPORT Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th SEPTEMBER 2017 9am – 5pm

FROME SHOWGROUND

Adults £6  OAPs £5  Under 16s Free Vehicles & Displays from Bygone Days Inc. Steam Engines • Commercials Tractors • Cars • Motorbikes Stationary Engines DOG

SHOW

1940s Tea Room  Catering  Trade Stands Crafts  Bar  Camping Available

Enquiries: 07900 695620 DONATIONS TO CANCER CHARITY

www.somersetfestivaloftransport.webs.com 10 THE VISITOR August 2017

and early afternoon led by Knoll’s expert, Keith Powrie. Mark Spencer, President of the Bournemouth Natural Science Society will be identifying the moths collected the previous night.

Stuart Roberts, distinguished entomologist and chair of the UK Bee, Wasp and Ants Recording Society (BWARS) will be helping Knoll’s resident bumble bee surveyor, and the RSPB will be on hand to help with recording and identifying the birds, and many other creatures that visit and make their homes in Knoll’s naturalistic garden. Dorset Wildlife Trust will also be in the garden all day. DWT organised the first wildlife survey at Knoll four years ago and have supported the event ever since. Its team of staff, experts and wildlife enthusiasts will be hoping to find even more species than in 2016.

Peter Gear, Chairman of the Knoll Gardens Foundation said, ‘Our annual garden wildlife survey is an important part of the charity’s work at Knoll. Every August we ask people to come and join us to take a snapshot of all the garden’s creatures. The picture we build up helps us to find out more about the relationship between our plants, our

naturalistic planting style and Knoll’s wildlife, and creates a clear record of which species thrive in our Wimborne garden.

Whilst the survey work is hugely important to the charity, the annual garden survey is also a wonderful way to find out more about the creatures you may see in your own garden, re-engage with nature, and spend some time in this glorious garden environment.’

The annual garden wildlife survey takes place from 10am – 3pm on 8th August, at Knoll Gardens, near Wimborne. It is suitable for all ages, and for beginners as well as those with more knowledge. The cost of garden admission will be divided between all the charities involved. Anyone already a member or volunteering with RSPB, DWT, BNSS and BWARS and wanting to help out will be admitted free of charge. For more information go to www. knollgardens foundation.org

West Country Folklore at Corton Denham Village Hall

Holly Blue butterflies at Knoll Gardens, Wimborne.

IS THE VENUE for a series of six WEA lectures running from Monday 25th September until early November. These 1½ hour lectures, commencing at 7.30pm, will explore local beliefs about West Country fairies, dragons, green man carvings and witchcraft, among others, looking at their origins, while relating them to present day beliefs.

THE COST is £35 for the series and enrolment on course number C3528581 is now open by contacting the website enrolonline.wea.org.uk or phoning 0300 303 3464 For more details please contact JULIA BUNKER 01963 220515 or visit Corton Denham’s website

MOSTERTON ART GROUP 29th Annual Exhibition

Saturday 26th August until ...

Saturday 2nd September 2017

From

10am – 5pm every day (4pm last day)

Skyrm Room, The Public Hall (rear entrance) 8 Fleet Street BEAMINSTER, DT8 3EF

There will be a great variety of artwork by local artists, most of which is for sale and this is your opportunity to snap up some original paintings or prints at a reasonable price. Entrance is free and there is disabled access and adjacent car park.

Further information from:

Joceline Wallis 01308 862872

SOMERTON MARKET Friday 1st September 2017 From 10am to 2pm

Butter Cross, Market Place

Meat - Sausages – Plants – Italian Cheeses Salamis – Bespoke Catering - Salmon Rolls Veg’ Samosas - Cooked Meals Avalon Kombucha – Somerset Deli Olives - Spices - Nuts - Snacks - Baklavas Preserves - Jam - Chutney Rare Breed Woollen Products - Sheepskins Fruit Juices - Jewellery Bonzo’s Bites (Biscuits for Dogs) Glassware - Fish - And Much More

1st Friday of Every Month marketonatsomerton@gmail.com

Museum of Somerset Launches Summer of Fun

The Museum of Somerset is launching its ‘Summer of Fun’ with a must-see exhibition of nursery rhymes from around the world and artwork by best-selling children’s illustrators.

‘Rhyme Around the World’ is a travelling exhibition coming to The Museum from Seven Stories, the National Home of Children's Books. This colourful, multisensory exhibition invites young visitors to step straight into their favourite nursery rhymes with plenty of opportunities for play and active learning.

The exhibition includes some firm-favourites such as ‘Old King Cole,’ ‘Polly, Put The Kettle On’ and ‘Hey Diddle, Diddle.’ The stories are accompanied by beautifully bright artwork from well-known illustrators including Axel Scheffler, best known for ‘The Gruffalo’ (written by Julia Donaldson,) and Emily Gravett, writer and illustrator of the ‘Bear and Hare’ adventures and ‘Orange Pear Apple Bear.’

Creator of the ‘Alfie’ series Shirley Hughes and Nick Sharratt, who works with Jacqueline Wilson, also feature alongside many more.

Visitor Services Manager Susie Simmons said: ‘With sensory and play opportunities and beautiful

varied work by international illustrators, there's something here for all the family. Visitors can enjoy well known rhymes and discover new rhymes from around the world and explore how stories, song and rhyme are shared across generations.’

For older children, there will be daily pop-up hands-on history activities throughout the galleries and in the courtyard. Pop-ups will be announced each day on The Museum’s Facebook page and could include learning about space, an archaeological dig, striking a coin to take home, making a Roman mosaic and fossil rubbing. There will also be five brand new museum trails to choose from.

Summer holiday opening: 22nd July to 2nd September, Monday to Saturday, 10.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Exhibition entry £2.20 pp (inc.

Gift Aid, aged 2+). Pop-up activities from £1. Trails £1. For more information visit Facebook.com/museumofsomerset or museumofsomerset.org.uk

Drayton Street Fair – Business as usual!

stalls, together with live music, a hog roast, Pimms, Punch and Judy and the Village Hall Café will all be back in action.

Last year a major power cut coupled with heavy rain for much of the afternoon did much to dampen spirits.

But the village rallied round and offers of camping stoves and portable generators kept the village hall café supplied with hot water. One of the acts booked for the main stage even unplugged his guitar and played an acoustic set to entertain the customers in the hall.

Michael Kennet, who chairs the Drayton Street Fair committee, said ‘All the work that goes on behind the scenes into putting together contingency plans for an event like this paid off and fortunately the only casualty was some runny ice cream. We have received fantastic support from stall holders and visitors and we are looking forward to welcoming them back this year.’

Each year proceeds from the event are donated to a chosen

charity and local good causes. The inclement weather, and the fact that a large part of the planned area of the fair was put out of bounds following the power cut, meant that takings were down.

So this year the Drayton Street Fair committee has again nominated last year’s good cause, the Langport based children’s charity BIBIC, to be the main recipient of funds raised.

They have also booked perfect weather for Saturday 2nd of September 2017.

Drayton Street Fair has weathered last year’s storms and on Saturday 2nd September it will be business as usual for the village’s 22nd annual fair. Around a hundred craft and produce

Walton’s of Mere have a huge range of greetings cards in stock.

No matter what the occasion, they are sure to have something suitable!

THE VISITOR August 2017 11

Family Health with

Jenna Evans

BACK TO SCHOOL

WE MAY BE in the middle of the summer holidays, but many of us are thinking ahead to the next school term. Whether your little ones are heading to school for the first time or you're an older student wanting to make the most of your body and brain come study time, read on for my top remedies.

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

Multi-Vitamins – I consider a good multi-vit to be a

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

Probiotics – These good bacteria have a great influence on our immunity and digestive health. I recommend pregnant mothers to supplement to

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improve their own bowel flora and to supplement their babies for a few months when born.

There are associations with lowered allergies, improved immunity and more settled digestion when probiotics are supplemented in children.

Study Stress – School years seem increasingly taxing with endless assessments and exams.

For sensitive children this can be very difficult. There are some Bach Flower Essences that may be helpful – Try Chicory if you have a needy, possessive child; Elm for states of overwhelm; Gentian for discouragement; Larch for lack of confidence; Mimulus for fear; Olive for exhaustion and Walnut for protection during changes (such as new schools). There is also the classic Rescue Remedy combination essence for shock, trauma and stress. Many herbal teas can be helpful too – think calming chamomile & passionflower. Also look for supplements containing magnesium and theanine for when kids find it hard to wind down and relax – or parents do!

Winter Helpers – Back to school can bring with it all sorts of lovely bugs and beasties doing the rounds! If your child is eating and supplementing well, then hopefully they’ll miss a lot of the sniffles. A couple of extra supplements to bear in mind for the winter though, would be Vitamin D and an immune complex. There have been concerns in recent years that our children are often low on vitamin D as cases of rickets (the deficiency disease of vitamin D affecting the bones) have been increasing. This may be in part

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due to our obsession with slapping on high SPF’s and covering ourselves from head to toe when in the sun. This interferes with the body manufacturing vitamin D from the effect of sunlight on the skin.

It’s important for us all to get lots of shorts bursts of sunlight, on bare skin, whenever we can – especially as we don’t usually have a summer like this year’s!

As well as bone health, vitamin D is important for immunity and mood. There are plenty of kids’

vitamin D supplements available to give them a boost through the winter months. When children do get run down with an infection, black elderberry and colloidal silver are useful medicines to have on hand. Black elderberry is an anti-viral and often found in formulas for coughs, colds and sinus or chest infections. Colloidal silver is anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal and so can be more or less tried out on anything! You can take small amounts orally, use as a throat

spray for soreness and even as a spray for head lice. On the subject of those little critters, there are lots of home made lice treatments that can be very effective. Try a blend of oils such as lavender, tea tree and thyme in olive oil (20 drops to 50ml) as an overnight treatment, or soaking the hair in white vinegar for a couple of hours before shampooing. A repellent spray can be made from the aforementioned oils in a base of white vinegar or colloidal silver.

tel: 01935 851221 Visit our website for full range of treatments

Hope you're all having a happy, healthy summer. See you next month.

Jenna Evans ©2017  Ceres Natural Foods are having a ‘Back to School’ month in-store during August. Pop in for exclusive offers and samples. 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 multiaward winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.

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THE VISITOR August 2017 13

Amour Lingerie, Wincanton

Amour Lingerie has a range of beautiful designer bras and underwear, nightwear, swimwear and leisurewear for women of all ages, shapes and sizes.

Brands stocked include Fantasie, Freya, Heidi Klum, Lise Charmel, Marie Jo and Prima Donna. New designs come into the shop throughout the year so they always have the latest styles and colours.

Marie Jo’s Avero is a very popular choice, its versatility winning women’s hearts for many years. Each season a new colour is added to the collection,

updating this iconic series while retaining the comfort and original combination of check pattern and embroidery that have made it a firm favourite.

Amour believe that the perfect bra is a combination of fit and comfort. Whatever your size, they can help you find the bra that will make you look and feel wonderful, whatever the occasion.

Amour offer a professional fitting service to ensure you get the perfect fit. They also have postsurgery wire-free and pocketed bras.

Pop in and have a browse or a fitting.

Needful Things of Castle Cary is in ‘Sales’ mode, including ladies clothing. Pictured: Tunic by Hatley, available from Needful Things.

Needful Things

The Needful Things Summer Sale has begun! Reductions throughout Clothing, Gifts and Furniture!

This ever popular shop is once again in ‘Sales’ mode and it’s causing great excitement in store.

Pop in to grab a bargain, whilst stocks last, as they clear the decks, ready for the next season’s stock to arrive. The sale includes Ladies Clothing / Handbags /

Scarves / Jewellery / Lotions and Potions / Candles / Clocks / Pictures / Frames / Bronzes / Men’s Gifts / Crockery / Glassware / Faux Flowers / Cards and Wrap / Chairs / Desks / Tables / Shelves / Lanterns / Garden Statues ... it’s a bumper sale so don’t miss out. Friendly staff on hand to help and guide you. Come and have some fun ... there’s something, on offer, for everyone!

SUMMER SALE NOW ON! of Castle Cary

7 High Street Castle Cary • BA7 7AN 01963 351352

www.needfulthings.uk.com 14 THE VISITOR August 2017

Marie Jo’s iconic ‘Avero’: available from Amour Lingerie, Wincanton.

September Issue Published: Thursday 24th August Deadline: Friday 11th August To BOOK your ADVERT in

Tel: 01963 351256 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

British homes are transforming into centres of homely wellness

As we move into the post plastic age, health and wellbeing is no longer just a matter of what we eat and drink and how often we exercise. Today, Brits are turning their backs on disposable, desirebased buying and cheap synthetics, in favour of more thoughtful purchases that offer a combination of personal and planetary health and wellbeing benefits.

Seeking the holy grail of 'Homely-Wellness' through home design and build, a new 'Window on the World' research and trend report by The Wood Window Alliance reveals three key trends that are currently impacting the way we live our lives:

Homely Wellness

Put simply, ‘naturally happy’ is not just a matter of individual psychology and attitude. 49% of home-owners state that having natural materials in their homes makes them feel discernibly

happier than when surrounded by artificial materials, with one in three planning to bring more natural materials, and 27% planning to increase the amount of natural fibres into their homes this year in a bid to improve their quality of life.

Nurture through nature Bringing the outside in

Only 10% of Britain’s children play in nature compared to 40% in 1985. Increasingly, because of the way we live (urban environments, lack of outdoor space, technology keeping us chained to screens etc.), it is not only children who are becoming disconnected from nature, adults are also increasingly spending most of their time indoors, with a host of academic research revealing debilitating effects on wellbeing and health both for humans and their living environments. When it comes to going green indoors, 46% are planning to increase the amount of plants and flowers in their homes this year in a bid to

improve their connection with nature.

Leading biophilic designer Oliver Heath’s top tips for happy homes:

It seems that the desire to stem the tide of plastic in our lives (and in our oceans) has spread beyond the bag, with one in four homeowners actively planning to decrease the amount of plastics in their home this year, while 46% state they are conscious of the impact of synthetic materials on the natural environment and one in three conscious of the impact of synthetic materials in general on their wellbeing. When it comes to the most desirable, timber is cited by 67% of homeowners as the material they would like to have more of in their home.

Natural light is fundamental to our levels of energy and our ability to sleep. It may be about making sure you position furniture next to windows, so that you can sit on the furniture and have a higher level of natural light and greater opportunity to look out onto an external space.

Make sure you look out onto a space that has greenery. Greenery and nature have been proven to be very good at helping you to restore your mental and physical cognitive energy very quickly.

Plastic purging and wood for good

Maximise natural light

Say you saw it in The Visitor

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THE VISITOR August 2017 15

Understand the importance of sleep

Understanding the importance of sleep to well-being is fundamental. Make sure that you create spaces that are calming and restorative and allow you to go to sleep well. Put down mobile phones and technology that can stimulate the brain. Making sure you can turn the lights down and don’t watch television for an hour before you go to bed. Nice, calm, warm spaces with soft materials.

Really valuing how important sleep is.

SJH have a wonderful range of carpets and flooring, and their Wincanton branch has a new soft furnishing department (see Wincanton feature for information).

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Carpets ■ Vinyls Naturals ■ Woods Laminates Shutters & Blinds Wincanton LVTs: Karndean, Moduleo, Harvey Maria ... and many other manufacturers ROLL STOCK vinyls & carpets now available

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16 THE VISITOR August 2017

Introduce natural materials to your home

The introduction of sensory contrasts and natural materials is fundamental to creating more mindful spaces. They keep you there in the moment and can help to calm and relax you in a very sensory way. These materials could be timber (for windows, doors and floor), stone for your walls as well as sheepskin, wool rugs and possibly cork for the floor.

Article courtesy of: The Wood Window Alliance

SJH Carpets & Flooring

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

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

Customer satisfaction means everything to SJH, and they offer their full attention from selection through to end of installation care. They have local, employed fitters and 20 years plus industry experience. Call SJH Carpets today and get your free estimate for your upcoming flooring project. Find the flooring that perfectly matches your needs and unique personal style.

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Showroom on Market Street, Yeovil. Visit their website www.fitandfurnish.co.uk for more information, or pop in and see them in store!

Ian Crossland

Fit & Furnish, Yeovil have such a fantastic selection of furniture, and during August they are having a massive clearance sale!

SOME ITEMS HALF PRICE! Pictured: oak dressers with choice of base. Just two of the pieces available with incredible discounts.

Ian Crossland has over 25 years’ experience working in traditional crafts. Ian initially trained as a cabinet maker, moving on to restoring leaded windows and, since 2006, has run a very successful property maintenance business.

In recent years Ian has specialised in the restoration of timber windows and external lime pointing on period properties.

Ian is very sympathetic to the needs of older properties and

offers a friendly local reliable service. Ian takes pride in every job he does no matter how big or small and likes nothing more than a satisfied customer at the end of each job.

IAN CROSSLAND

Specialist External Lime Pointing on Period Property Restoration of Timber Windows

Tel: 01935 411813 Mob: 07811 070498

Over 20 years’ experience

For a friendly reliable service please give me a call

Fit & Furnish, Yeovil

Whichever room in your home you want to furnish, Fit & Furnish, Yeovil can deliver. With a huge range of furniture in stock and the ability to order in items as required, they are sure to have something to suit you and your needs.

Beds and bedrooms, living and dining room furniture, home office, outdoor and conservatory, sofas, armchairs and more, their range will surprise you, and the friendly reception you will receive will have you feeling welcomed and comfortable.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please ask a member of staff, as the items they can source are almost endless.

This August is a wonderful time to visit them for the first time, with their warehouse and stock clearance sale taking place.

With free parking outside the door and a town centre location, Fit & Furnish is convenient and offers a stress free shopping experience.

Located at The Old Vincent’s

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THE VISITOR August 2017 17

J2 Tiles, Yeovil

J2 Tiles are now your local stockist of Grespania tiles. These high-quality ceramic or porcelain tiles are available in natural or polished finishes at a price that may surprise you. The choice of style is endless and there is something suitable for all properties, from country cottage to modern mansion. These tiles have the appearance of wood or natural stone but offer the lowmaintenance that you would expect from a manufactured material. Durable, versatile and 15% off during the sale this summer, why not pop in and see J2 Tiles’ comprehensive display?

Now open on Sundays.

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18 THE VISITOR August 2017

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Package deals at Sandpits Heating Centre, Curry Rivel

Clearview are Britain’s leading manufacturer of clean burning stoves. They believe in their stoves and channel their passion into making an exceptional product.

Some Clearview models are currently available as part of Sandpits’s Package Deals. These deals offer a section of flue pipe, metal register plate, adaptor to flexible liner, 8 / 10 meters of flexible 316 grade flue liner, rain cap and mesh to the top of the chimneystack, CO detector, HETAS certification and an installation by an in-house team.

Some of their Package Deals have a FREE dumpy bag of kiln dried logs included this summer: look out for the Logs4fuel logo!

Sandpits have a huge range of appliances in stock, offer a wealth of expert help and advice, carry a massive stock of spares, employ all their registered installers, can supply an excellent range of fuel delivered to your door and have a fully employed professional sweeping and servicing team.

They have been established for 50 years.

Visit Sandpits Heating Centre to see the wonderful products they have to offer. A warm

welcome will always await you.

They have working models, both stoves and cookers, on display.

Call 01458 251476 for further information or pop in for a visit.

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THE VISITOR August 2017 19

Substance and style: the priorities of home interiors

Homes are interesting places as they say so much about their residents. Like the human beings that inhabit them, they are not one dimensional. Due to the multiple roles we undertake in our lives, our homes are expected to be many different things. Our home is our sanctuary, a place to relax and refuel, but it must also be practical: a place to store our belongings, to nurture, to entertain, and sometimes it must also function as workspace, even if just somewhere our children can do their homework. Often one room can be expected to be a multiplicity of things. Kitchens, for example, are sometimes a

place to cook, eat, socialise and do our washing. And in today’s world of social media, it is all too easy to compare one’s home with that of others and find it lacking.

So, what do we need in a home and what do we want in a home?

Are they the same thing? As is the case with clothing, trends in interior design have changed through the years but it is only in recent decades that it has been possible for many people to seriously consider applying them to their properties. Style and substance are of importance to shoppers but perhaps the latter trumps the former when it comes to the crunch, not least because many people cannot afford to follow each and every trend that

emerges. However, what we really want is both: style and substance at once.

Exposed floorboards have long been fashionable and their aesthetic appeal shows no signs of receding. However, wood is a material which requires TLC, and with our already busy lives getting busier, the time that the maintenance of wood requires is something many of us just don’t have. Luckily, there are affordable alternatives to wood which require far less upkeep, are extremely durable and still appear natural. Porcelain and ceramic tiles or LVTs (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) are available in styles to suit all properties, and can be cleaned very easily.

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The bathroom is another space which people don’t update that often and when the time comes to do it, it can be intimidating. After all it is expensive and as such is something we want to get right.

Professional advice may be required to make an informed choice. Great prices can be found in-store, and we are lucky enough to have friendly experts in the area.

The right flooring is very important in the bathroom because water must be contained.

If you like the look of wood but are reluctant to have it in the bathroom because of the effect of water on wood, again tiles are a great alternative. There are a huge range of tiles available to suit all tastes and property styles.

Tiling throughout the bathroom can look very stylish, and with walk-in shower rooms becoming increasingly popular, particularly if you have difficulty bathing, this approach is also a very practical option.

They say that the bathroom and the kitchen are the rooms in the house which cause the most upheaval when redoing. This is probably because they are in continuous use. This means, of course, that they also work very hard for us. It therefore makes sense that we want flooring, cabinets and surfaces that are hardwearing and enduring.

Choosing local suppliers and fitters will mean that you get a personal service and the prices offered can be very competitive.

When it comes to the other rooms in the house, many of us opt for freestanding furniture.

This is a good choice because it gives us the option to vary the layout of our rooms and perhaps move the furniture into different rooms if we really want to reassess our living space. Natural materials have long been popular in furniture, with wood and leather being firm favourites, but you can purchase very effective imitation items that wear well.

The beauty of shopping for homeware locally is that you can see the quality of the items before you purchase.

This is also true for carpets, soft furnishings and fabrics: there is no comparison to seeing colours, patterns and materials first hand.

With social media being so prevalent in modern life, we are exposed to more tastes, décors and styles than ever before. This

for vans, pick-ups, campervans, minibuses and car-towed trailers can use any open recycling site at any time, weekdays, weekends

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For more information on collections and recycling sites, see www.somersetwaste.gov.uk

Wait 24 hours: after the bank holiday, all collections will be one day later.

can be confusing and too much choice can indeed be a bad thing.

However, research and advice can help you find the right items for your home and lifestyle. While style is of understandable importance, practicality still reigns: without practicality, a stylish home is about as useful as a chocolate teapot.

Bank holiday means all change for waste

The Summer Bank Holiday on Monday 28th August means all collections that week, up to Friday 1st September, will take place one day later, including Friday pick-ups on Saturday 2nd September.

Recycling sites remain on their usual schedules throughout the week, including all 16 opening at 8am on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.

Following the recent relaxation of weekend hours for permit holders, customers with permits

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THE VISITOR August 2017 21

SHAFTESBURY business focus

The Wincombe Centre

Looking for business space for your small enterprise? Why not make The Wincombe Centre in Shaftesbury your considered choice. With access 24/7, onsite management, free parking, fibre speed broadband, Units from 1-8 people, and a fabulous little meeting room in which to meet your clients, you’ll be guaranteed value for money. All offices are let on Easy In Easy Out terms with simple, inclusive licence agreements. The regular networking events provide a great opportunity to share your

achievements and sound out ideas with other businesses. It is such a thriving and vibrant centre, full of a wide variety of small like-minded businesses, and its encouraging and supportive environment will enthuse and hopefully spur you on to continued success.

Homemaker – Kitchens

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it makes sense that you want to love it. It can be a hub and a haven: a place for cooking for family and friends, chatting over coffee or an evening glass of wine, and for children to do their

Homemaker, Shaftesbury: where you will find inspiration for your kitchen, the heart of your home.

22 THE VISITOR August 2017

homework after a busy day at school.

Homemaker know that not everyone is the same, so they are there to help you choose the kitchen that best suits your requirements. There is a style to suit all tastes, from very contemporary styles and bold colours to the more traditional painted finishes. They offer a personal service and have years of experience.

Homemaker’s showroom in Shaftesbury will inspire you, and their custom kitchen design service will ensure that the end result is the combination of a truly beautiful kitchen that is also completely practical and user friendly. You will get value for money and a quality product with them.

Homemaker are also able to supply a wide range of kitchen appliances from leading manufacturers. So, whether you want a new kitchen designed and installed or a new appliance, look no further than Homemaker. Contact 01747 851 476 for their Shaftesbury branch.

Also in Warminster and Bath.

SHAFTESBURY business focus

Ben Johnson Garden Machinery is situated at 17d, Wincombe Business Park, Shaftesbury. Ben has been trading since 1997, specializing in the sales, service and repairs of a wide range of garden machinery such as lawnmowers, tools, ATVs, quadbikes and stoves from a range of top manufacturers including Cub Cadet, Lawnflite, Husqvarna, Viking, Hayter, Tanaka, Wolf Garten and many more.

Visit www.benjohnson mowers.com for further information and to browse through the selection of mowers and equipment they have available.

If you are looking for a ride-on mower, Ben has a wonderful choice: Cub Cadet’s Zero Turns ZX2 offers strength, ease and versatility; the XZ3 48” cut provides zero turns and infinite strength, while the Z Pro series 54” and 60” cut is comfortable and efficient with amazing manoeuvrability.

All makes of machinery are serviced: Ben and his team are professional and friendly, so if you need a new mower or an existing one repaired, call them to arrange.

Free parking outside the door.

Tel: 01747 851021, email: info@benjohnsonmowers.com

Cub Cadet’s XZ2 gives you more: Zero-Turn handling, steering-wheel control, four-wheel steering and an advanced cutting system for a highquality cut.

Available from Ben Johnson Garden Machinery, Shaftesbury.

day 10am – 5pm from April to October. Museum and Abbey garden: £3.00; £2.50 concessions.

Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie

Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie, 30 High Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JG, is almost opposite the famous Gold Hill.

Shirley has over 40 years

experience in buying ladies fashion and has owned the business 20 years this year.

Shirley understands her customers and has a very loyal following, and new customers are always very surprised by the large selection of brands stocked.

One of the largest stockists of trousers, jeans and crops in the South West, in sizes 4 – 30 and with over 2,500 pairs in stock, you are sure to find that perfect fit.

Occasion wear now has 40% off on selected styles, so it is a good time to find that outfit for a special occasion! An enormous selection of Joseph Ribkoff, with beautiful hats to match. Radley handbags this season are amazing and good prices.

The lingerie department stocks sizes 30AA – 50K, with free bra fitting by qualified staff available.

Sloggi pants now in: 4 for 3 on selected styles while available.

You can always by online at Shirley’s online store: www.brashopuk.com Well worth a visit when in Shaftesbury! Shirley Allum and her team look forward to helping you with your needs.

Joseph Ribkoff

Ben Johnson Garden Machinery

‘Abbey ... what Abbey?’

A response I hear regularly when I mention that I volunteer at Shaftesbury Abbey museum and shop is… ‘I didn’t know Shaftesbury had an abbey’.

Technically it doesn’t have a standing abbey now, but Shaftesbury did have one of the most powerful abbeys in the country for centuries. There are now only a few stones in the grounds of what was the abbey church, but the grounds are a beautifully maintained and tranquil garden. In the museum, there are many artefacts from the Abbey. Adjoining is the shop, open to all. There is no obligation to enter the museum and abbey church grounds.

The Abbey is situated on beautiful Park Walk, just to the west of Gold Hill.

Do come and visit, so that we hear the words, ‘Abbey, what abbey?’ far less often!

Maggie Pierce, Volunteer steward  Shaftesbury Abbey Garden, the museum and shop are open every

40% OFF (selected styles) at Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie.

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Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 • info@benjohnsonmowers.com www.benjohnsonmowers.com THE VISITOR August 2017 23

GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW

It’s going to be a great show!

The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show is one of the largest one day agricultural shows in the south.

This traditional show is always held on the third Wednesday in August and regularly has an attendance of over 24,000 people.

Wednesday 16th August 2017

The 2017 Show looks all set to be one of the best events ever with a record number of trade exhibitors, a great range of attractions for all the family, and entries for the competitive classes being received at a record rate.

With over 520 trade stand

exhibitors, there will be an enormous choice available to visitors of all ages: schools and further education, fitness and medical advice, home improvements, cars, trucks and 4×4s, handicrafts and gifts, food to eat in or take home, and over

This traditional show is always held on the third Wednesday in August and regularly has an attendance of over 24,000 people.

GILLINGHAM SHAFTESBURY

100 stands of tractors, machinery and farming suppliers.

The competitive sections include cattle, sheep, horses, dogs, poultry, rabbits, homecrafts, handicrafts, art, and a huge range of classes for younger exhibitors, all of which need to be entered in advance. Agriculture, farming and rural activities are at the very heart of the show and visitors will be able to watch the finest cattle and sheep being paraded and judged. The new Education Area, ‘Farm, Food & Fun’, will help to show how milk, meat and grain are produced on local farms and how it eventually reaches your table. There will be lots of hands-on activities for all ages. In the Harts of Stur Food Hall there are over sixty producers of the finest quality food and drink, including a gluten free bakery specialist, local wines and cheeses, speciality Greek food providers, hot pies, beer, and a huge range of ready-to-eat foods.

Back to the Show, by popular request, will be the ‘Scare Crow Trail’: organizers are asking trade

AGRICULTURAL SHOW

at the Motcombe Turnpike Showground Wednesday 16th August 2017 8.30am – 6.30pm

★ Food Trade Stands ★ Jason Smyth Adrenaline Quad Bike Stunt Team ★ Shetland Pony Racing ★ Heavy Horses ★ Birds of Prey ★ Team Terrier Racing ★ Ferret Racing ★ Falconry Display ★ The Cornish Wurzels and Neon Moon ★ Cookery Theatre ★ Over 500 Trade Stands

£12 £3 £ 29

£15 £4 £ 39

Find us on Facebook – gillandshaftshow 24 THE VISITOR August 2017

GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW Wednesday 16th August 2017

exhibitors to make up a scare crow that in some way represents or promotes their business. They hope that visitors will purchase a judging form (all funds to the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution) and select the best scare crows. Organizers will present prizes to the winning exhibitors and will then draw three of the judging forms to award prizes to the lucky visitors who voted.

There is a full day of entertainment and displays in three rings. In the main ring, they feature the Jason Smyth Adrenaline Tour Quad Bike Stunt Team, with their fantastic display. In the east ring there will be a full day of horse showing classes and show jumping classes.

In the Turnpike Ring, countryside sports include ferret and terrier racing, birds of prey, sheep dogs, and the dog and duck display!

A packed programme of exciting entertainment!

This attractive timber building has been designed and made by Sparkford Timber Buildings & Gates.

Visit their stand at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show. (See advert inside front cover).

Homemaker Electrical Appliances

Buying necessary household appliances may not seem like the most scintillating of pastimes, especially as we only tend to think about replacing these when our current items are on the blink.

However, these days there are so many innovations, stylistically and practically, that shopping for homeware and electricals can be a very exciting time.

Homemaker are part of the Euronics buying group and this enables them to buy competitively and pass the savings on to their customers. They are able to supply a wide range of kitchen appliances from leading manufacturers.

It is Homemaker’s policy to give straightforward advice and sell the customer the right appliance for their individual requirements.

From kettles, toasters and irons to wide screen televisions, American style fridge-freezers and range cookers, look no further than Homemaker. The styles and models they have in their Shaftesbury showroom is sure to impress you, and if they haven’t got what you want in stock, they will get it! Contact them on 01747 851476.

See them at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show, when there will be plenty of special offers on the day!

THE VISITOR August 2017 25

GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW

Jeans Electrical, Mere

Jeans Electrical are a family owned firm offering retail sales, servicing, repairs and electrical contracting work, including aerial and satellite installations. They have an extensive range of white and brown goods in stock, to suit all requirements, and can offer same day delivery within a 20mile radius on in-stock items ordered by 5pm, or alternatively a cash and carry service is available. All major credit cards are accepted.

In their Boar Street showroom they have the latest televisions and an extensive range of gas and electric cookers, Dimplex fires, washing machines, dishwashers and fridges on display, plus much more.

If you cannot find what you are looking for, they are happy to try and order any items you may require. As part of the Euronics group, they are able to offer competitive prices and choice.

A range of small domestic appliances, some audio products

Wednesday 16th August 2017

and other electrical items are available from their Salisbury Street shop. Contact them on 01747 860215.

Visit Jeans Electrical at their stand at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show on Wednesday 16th August.

cow will be on hand and there will be some fantastic entertainment for children young and old with Jamie Jigsaw.

Light lunches and patisserie, some made using the Dairy’s products, with coffee and tea will once again be available from Turnbull’s of Shaftesbury.

BV Dairy Marquee

Plenty will be on show at the BV Dairy Marquee where a busy stand is planned at this year’s Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show on Wednesday 16th August.

Come and discover what goes on at your local Dairy and the new innovations that are now on offer. Discover the employment opportunities there and speak to some of the key staff.

The BV Dairy marquee is at stand A11 overlooking the main show arena and everyone is welcome. Our popular milking

The competitive sections include cattle, sheep, horses, dogs, poultry, rabbits, homecrafts, handicrafts, art, and a huge range of classes for younger exhibitors.

JEANS ELECTRICAL Chapel Showroom MERE, Wiltshire BA12 6DD Tel: 01747 860215

Email: sales@jeanselectrical.co.uk Website: jeanselectrical.co.uk 26 THE VISITOR August 2017

G&S SHOW

Wednesday 16th August 2017

Don’t miss the ‘Scare Crow Trail’: Show organizers are asking trade exhibitors to make up a scare crow that in some way represents or promotes their business.

AP Kitchen Solutions

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 Full project management and qualified local installers  We offer an expert and friendly service

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To discuss your personal requirements contact Adam

Northover, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LD www.apkitchens.co.uk

I HAVE NEVER been a fan of large supermarkets, especially when it comes to their wine selections. Whilst the shelves seem to be jam packed, closer inspection reveals a pretty poor show when it comes to something interesting. I notice this particularly when buying wines for my Wine & Spirit Education Trust exam courses.

Inevitably, I turn to independent wine merchants.

Although prices may not be bargain basement, they will often be less expensive than supermarkets. You can also be sure that the wines will have been carefully selected to appeal to a wider, eclectic, audience; many merchants specialise in a particular area.

Whilst the price point for everyday drinking for many people is around £5 a bottle, remember that when paying through the nose for a glass of bog standard, boring, pinot grigio, chardonnay, shiraz or merlot in your local hostelry, this works out at around £15 a bottle; just imagine what a lovely bottle of wine you could get for that!

In the South West we are blessed with a number of quirky independent wine merchants, always willing to share their kno wl e d g e . Mo s t o f f e r ca s e discounts in addition to a range of other services, including glass loan, free delivery and private tastings.

When buying online, one gripe I have is that many of the websites leave much to be desired, and a search for independent wine merchants in the area often throws up the big retailers, which is very misleading.

Probably the best known is Yapp Brothers Wine Merchants, founded in 1969, and still going strong, with a number of awards under their belt. As agents for some of the top producers, there is particular emphasis on the Loire. Francophiles looking for characterful French regional wines, cannot fail to be impressed.  The Old Brewery, Water Street, Mere, BA12 6DY, www.yapp.co.uk, 01747 860423.

Hannah Wilkins, proprietor of Vineyards of Sherborne, has recently celebrated her 12th anniversary, and is one of a few women to make an impact on a business that was once

dominated by men; priding herself on building up a good relationship with customers and willing to source specific wines.  Digby Road, Sherborne, DT9 3NL, www.vineyardsof sherborne.co.uk, 01935 815544.

If you are fan of fruity Romanian wines then look no further than Winesolution.

Although not to everyone’s taste, their Dulce range, billed as ‘breaking all the rules’, has proved popular.  Willowbrook Garden Centre, Wellington, TA21 9HX, www.winesolution.co.uk, 01823 461414.

Continuing with Central Europe, Danube Wines, as its name suggests, specialises in wines from Hungary. In addition to the fabulous dessert wine, Tokaji, wine enthusiasts will find wines made from a number of native grape varieties on offer, not readily available elsewhere.  16 Ludlow Close, Frome, Somerset, BA11 2ES, www. danubewines.co.uk, 07868 372684.

Following a visit to Provence, Museum Wines, based in Dorset, is keen to ensure that we stock up on rosé wines this summer. The range they offer is limited, but has some interesting labels not seen elsewhere.  The Old Calf House, Tarrant Hinton, DT11 8JX, www.museum wines.co.uk, 01258 830122.

Shaftesbury Wines, a family business run by David and Alice Perry, who pride themselves on offering a constantly changing selection of wines from small producers, guaranteeing that each wine on offer has been tasted by them. A good place to buy premium gins, eau de vie and grappa also. No online ordering.  57 High Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JE, www.shaftesbury wines.co.uk, 01747 850059.

Next door to Palmer’s Brewery in Bridport, Palmers Wine Store has an impressive range of wines on offer, complete with an Enomatic tasting machine for tasting wines by the glass and holds regular tutored tastings with wine makers from around the world.  West Bay Road, Bridport, DT6 4JA, www.palmerswine store.com, 01308 427500.

Keeping it local this summer, The Little Wine Shop in Taunton is offering wine, cider and gin by local producers.

THE VISITOR August 2017 27

Owner, sommelier-turned-retailer Philippe Messy has worked in some of the country’s top restaurants, in addition to handson experience in vineyards from Burgundy to Australia.  7a Bath Place, Taunton, TA1 4ER, www.littlewineshop.co.uk 01823 276435.

The Seriously Good Wine Co., tucked away down a side street in Lyme Regis, really is like an Aladdin’s cave, offering a treasure trove of interesting finds; my ‘go to’ place for something a little out of the ordinary.  4 Drakes Way, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QP, www.seriously goodwineco.com, 01297 443306.

‘Drink a little less - buy a little better’ is the mantra of Just Fine Wines, who work closely with small producers with an emphasis on quality, consistency and great value.  The Coach House, Rousdon, Lyme Regis, DT7 3XW, www.justfinewines.com, 01297 444150.

Drew Belobaba, proprietor of The Ilminster Bookshop proves that this is not your average bookshop, providing a 2for-1 experience for visitors to the town. Keen to promote local authors and eager to support local wine producers too, Drew has a number of wines on offer.  10 Silver Street, Ilminster, TA19 0DJ, www.ciderand books.co.uk, 01460 55611.

At the time of writing, Wine Wizzard in Castle Cary had no website up and running for browsing, but I am reliably told that this really is a place to find magical wines.  Woodcock Street, Castle Cary, BA7 7BL, 01963 351919.

New kid on the block, Tim’s

28 THE VISITOR August 2017

Wines, in addition to stocking a wide range of popular wines to suit all budgets, runs a wine club and also has a good selection of local gins.  25 St. James’ Street, South Petherton, TA13 5BS www.timswines.co.uk, 01460 242094.

LP-V.

High Risers

Jon Thorner’s found themselves in esteemed company at the recent Meat Management Awards.

Somerset butcher Jon Thorner’s was nominated a finalist in the Britain’s Best Meat Pie category. Their new flavour Pulled Brisket & Horseradish wowed the tasting panel, amongst an outstanding number of entries from pie producers across the country.

The Meat Management Awards is a national industry event to reward the best of the best in the UK meat sector. The event culminated in a black tie ceremony in Birmingham, at the Hilton Metropole, in June.

Jon Thorner’s was also given a High Commendation for their Spicy Cumberland Sausage & Red Onion Pie, but just pipped

to the top spot for the Brisket & Horseradish Pie by Marks & Spencer. But being nominated a finalist amongst established national producers was a win in itself.

For a business with humble beginnings in 1979, to now being a major player in the local food sector, it is exciting for the products it produces to be recognised amongst the large multiples. Jon Thorner’s supply hundreds of independent retailers across the south west of England, and more recently nationally via Ocado – but each one of their pies is still individually filled and hand-crimped.

Top Dorset Chef urges foodies to "get on their bikes" and explore new Pedal Routes

Popular Dorset chef Lesley Waters is urging residents and visitors to Dorset this summer to get out into the countryside and explore the bountiful larder that Dorset has to offer. Lesley, together with a fast expanding group of Dorset food producers, is championing the recently introduced Dorset Pedal Routes.

This is a creative initiative from Dorset Food & Drink which, with the support of DEFRA's Food is GREAT campaign, encourages participants to harness some Dorset Pedal Power and explore the amazing range of food this unique county has to offer.

The Foodie Routes tell the story of how Dorset is fast becoming the "larder of the South West" and the new leaflets can be downloaded from: www.dorset aonb.org.uk/food-anddrink/foodie-routes or copies are available from Tourism Information Centres, libraries, cafes, shops and a wide range of

tourism providers supporting the initiative.

Lesley said, "I love the idea of being able to eat my way around the Dorset countryside! This fantastic new initiative makes my mouth water – the Ploughman's Lunch ride is right up my street … and the Salt Pig ride is very intriguing. I can't believe how many hidden delights lie along these cycle routes."

There are four routes covering Eastern Dorset and Purbeck, and four routes covering Northern Dorset and the Stour Valley.

Lesley continues, "The Dorset Pedals are great for both the visitor to Dorset and also for people who live here as they take you on some fascinating routes that encourage the exploration of the county's food heritage."

Katharine Wright from Dorset Food and Drink said, "We are delighted that Lesley has got behind this campaign. Her Cookery School is known for using seasonal local produce and Lesley knows just where to go in Dorset to find it, but we have even managed to surprise her with some of the local businesses and food producers we have discovered along the Dorset Pedals routes."

Katharine continued, "This summer we are really hoping that people will get their bikes out, or perhaps tackle the two walks we have included in the leaflets.

"Cycling is excellent exercise.

It helps people meet recommended physical activity guidelines, improves mental health and well-being, and reduces the risk of premature death and ill-health ... and it's much cheaper than going to the gym!" For more information on Dorset Pedals or Dorset Food & Drink, contact: Katharine Wright email: hello@dorsetfood anddrink.org

L – R: Hayley Davis (Cherry Picked Hampers), Steve Gould (Steepton Bill Farm & Shop), Lesley Waters (Lesley Waters Cookery School), Katharine Wright (Dorset Food & Drink), Laurie Griffin (Cherry Picked Hampers) and Tom Munro (Dorset AONB).

Lawrences’ jewellery sale

A finely cast cold-painted bronze of an Indian elephant

by Franz Bergmann, 17cm high, plodded purposefully to £4390.

Elephant leads the charge – but is beaten by Buddha

Lawrences’ recent sale of Decorative Arts and Ceramics offered a vast variety of lots: traditional and modern, East and West, minimalist and ornamental all found eager buyers and there were plenty of strong prices.

In the section of Decorative Arts, a finely cast cold-painted bronze of an Indian elephant by Franz Bergmann, 17cm high, plodded purposefully to £4390, a suite of dining table and four chairs by Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thompson made £3660 and 16 figures from the Bovey Pottery attracted many bids. These small (19 – 21cm high) figures, designed

by Fenton Wemyss and modelled

by Gwynneth Holt, included Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, Stalin and figures of a Land Girl, a Sergeant Major, a Sailor and others. The group made £5970.

Good results from European Ceramics included £1760 paid for Meissen mantel clock adorned with flowers and cherubs, and two saltglazed stoneware tankards that were bid above estimate to £790. A star lot in the section of glassware was the £1830 paid for a suite of Webb table glasses. Four notable prices from the selection of Oriental works of art included £3170 for a 4m long Chinese scroll painting, £5490 for a Tibetan bronze Buddha just 12.5cm high and £3400 for a pair of Chinese ‘Thousand Flower’ vases. A Chinese porcelain plaque, probably decorated by Wang Qi, made £7320. A good group of Japanese carvings included a trio of three okimono/netsuke depicting a skull, a tortoise group and a tortoise with snakes. These made £1280.

Despite a huge display of elegant gemstones in Lawrences' recent jewellery sale in Crewkerne, the day's top price was paid for a man's watch.

Highlights included a pair of Georgian diamond and gemset earrings at £3050; a Victorian turquoise, diamond and gold snake necklace in its fitted case that made £4390; a fine ruby and diamond cluster ring, the clear red stone of Burmese origin, that made £6100 and another ruby

and diamond combination with a 1.17 carat Burmese ruby that made £7320. A row of amber beads made £2680; a diamond and enamel horse and jockey brooch leapt to £700; and a group of silver pocket watches from the collection of the late Norman Brodie made £4860.

However, top honours went to a gentleman's stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual SeaDweller wristwatch that saw bids tick up to £13400, close to the top estimate.

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

Antiques Fairs

•

Chasty Cottage Antiques

•

Saturday 5th and 19th August Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1

Future Dates: 2nd & 30th September  01963 370986

John Hamblin

www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

CABINET MAKERS • ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORERS

We are specialists in the repair & restoration of antique and modern furniture Bespoke Furniture made to customers specific requirements • French Polishing Re-Leathering of Desktops, Bureaux, etc. • Dining Table Tops Refinished A family run business established for over 50 years

Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil, BA21 5HR Tel: 01935 471154 • jhamblin101@gmail.com “We care for your furniture”

THE VISITOR August 2017 29

WINCANTON

A CONSTANT WORRY about edge-of-town housing and retail developments is the effect they could have on the town centre – a worry certainly shared by many Wincanton businesses and residents. Most of them accept that if the town doesn’t grow it will stagnate, and Wincanton has certainly grown in the 35 years I have known it, and much of that growth has been achieved without too much harm being done to its countryside setting or its core of historic buildings. Although the town’s size and population are set to grow still further, it has successfully retained many of the characteristics and much of the charm of a small market town.

For centuries the heart of a country town was its Market Place, and Wincanton was no exception.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Jam Making?

Kilner Jars, Preserving Pans, Jars, Jelly Bags, Muslin, Rings & More!

 Large Range of Cookware

 Garden Chairs, Tables, Parasols

 Cool Boxes / Bags, PicnicWare, English Charcoal

 House Names in Wood & UPVC

 Christening & Anniversary Gifts and Clocks

 Watch Batteries & Straps sold and fitted

 Stockists of Spear & Jackson Tools and Addis Houseware  Tools & Knives Sharpened For your DIY, Garden, and Household Requisites

Clementina & Co ESTABLISHED 1929

High Street, Wincanton Tel: 01963 32249

30 THE VISITOR August 2017

But the face of its shopping centre has changed down the years, partly in response to people’s changing shopping habits, partly to counter the competition from out-of-town retail parks, mail order and internet shopping, and partly to tap into an affluence undreamt of in the first sixty years of the last century. Nowadays its retail area stretches eastwards for a goodly distance along the High Street and westwards to the Lawrence Hill Business Park off the roundabout by the A303, and its numerous independent businesses should be well-placed to benefit from the increase in population. But this will depend largely on planning decisions.

Wincanton Town Council is well aware of this and is in the process of producing a development plan covering the period up to 2028.

The Localism Act of 2011 enables towns and parishes to draw up Neighbourhood Plans which can stipulate planning policies for the development and use of local land, but the process of preparing such a plan is lengthy, costly and tightly prescribed. This includes a public consultation on the plan’s

proposals, checks by the local planning authority to ensure it meets all the relevant legislation and regulations, an independent examination of the proposed plan and, if it passes the examination, a local referendum on its acceptability. Wincanton’s sixweek public consultation finished on 27th July and the plan and the public responses can be read on www.southsomerset.gov.uk in the neighbourhood plans section of the planning policy pages.

But that is looking to the future.

What of the present? On a recent Friday afternoon stroll through the town centre the streets were busy, similar to the bustle I had seen elsewhere in the town. The once-elegant White Horse Hotel, which has been empty for more than two years, appeared to be in the early stages of renovation and is reputed to be reopening as an up-market pizza restaurant. The origins of the White Horse are old, the name being first recorded in 1655. The 1733 date cut in the stone above the door records the year the house was rebuilt by the noted local builder, architect and potter Nathaniel Ireson, and is

described as having ‘a three-bayed, three-storeyed front with Egyptian pilasters to the first floor’ and a ‘former courtyard with a colonnade of rounded arches supported on Doric columns’ that has since been roofed over. At one time the extensive yard behind the inn contained not only stables but also a brewhouse, malthouse and candleshop; now all that remains is a hall built in the 1920s and a car park.

The Market Place still retains much of its period charm with many of the elegant old buildings having been renovated in recent years. The building housing the post office was originally one of the town’s coaching inns, the Trooper. The present structure was erected in 1796 to replace a former inn on the site, and it survived as an inn until 1872. It was then run as a temperance hotel by James Sweetman from 1873 until a new hotel he was building on Church Street was ready for opening in 1878.

Subsequently it has served as a tailor’s shop, a ‘domestic bazaar’ and a grocery before finally being occupied since 1974 by the post

WINCANTON

office which also sells a large range of gifts, greetings cards and highquality chocolates.

A small 18th century building across the road once housed the Red Lion pub. In 2011 it was spruced up and given a new lease of life as the stylish Red Lion café bar, but this proved to be a shortlived venture. Then at the beginning of this year it reopened as a ‘gay friendly’ pub but closed again after just six months, and the building has now been purchased by someone who doesn’t intend to run it as a traditional pub. For much of the 19th century the Red Lion was well used by drinkers attending Wincanton market, but the Market Place hasn’t seen livestock sales for well over a century. The last cattle market was held there in 1865.

Subsequent sales were relocated to the Dolphin Yard off the High Street, then to a site on Station Road which operated until 1962.

Although the Red Lion and the White Horse are no longer pubs, five others remain in the town centre. Close to the Market Place

are the Bear on High Street, a former coaching inn dating from 1720, and the Nog Inn on South Street which opened as the New Inn around 1790. Opposite the parish church is the Millers Inn, built in the early 1860s after the Dorset Central Railway from Wimborne reached Wincanton in November 1861 and originally named the Railway Refreshment Rooms. At the top of the High Street is Uncle Tom’s Cabin, opened as a cider house in 1861 in the hope of attracting some of the new railway trade, and on the other side of the road stands the Dolphin Inn which dates from the 1740s and was originally called the Rainbow Inn. With its sixbay frontage and archway for coaches, it is thought to be another of Nathaniel Ireson’s designs. Thoroughly renovated in recent years and now sporting a welcoming yellow facade, the pub with its café and popular Stables restaurant is a fine example of 18th century provincial architecture.

Roger Richards.

Wincanton’s traditional family butcher not only stocks locally sourced meats, poultry and game but also sells local cheeses and Jersey cream.

THE VISITOR August 2017 31

WINCANTON

New Team takes the helm at Wincanton Chamber of Commerce

The AGM of Wincanton’s Chamber of Commerce was held at Churchfields, Wincanton on 28 June 2017, where the election of officers went smoothly and saw the formation of a new team.

Elected officers were Mark Hamnett – FishingMatters (Chair), Jane Griffin – Amour Lingerie (Vice Chair) and Karen Russell – Organise My Books Accounting Services (Treasurer).

Penny Ashton was appointed Secretary.

‘The Chamber of Commerce represents the interests of ALL local business in Wincanton so I am delighted to be working with a new committee representing a good cross-section of the towns business interests’ new chairman Mark Hamnett stated. ‘Microbusinesses, High Street and the Industrial Estates all have representation on the new committee.’ He continued by thanking outgoing chair John Smith for his contribution in the role since 2007 and added ‘we are looking forwards to your continued support as we grow the membership in the coming months and years.’

Looking to the future, membership of the Chamber will offer business talks, B2B networking opportunities and an additional range of benefits to its associates, increasing as the Chamber grows. Activities start on Wednesday 6th September 2017 with Guest Speaker Tamsin Hewer of Digital Carrot who will be holding a workshop about Search Engine Optimization and Digital Marketing (venue to be advised).

In adjacent shops on Church Street are Camelot Photographic and Studio H Photography, run by husband-and-wife photographers Graham and Trixie Hiscock.

Wincanton Chamber of Commerce offers local support on business matters through the networking of local businesses, large and small. The town has a wealth of experience at all levels to be able to offer networking and peer coaching to members.

Preview

Preview have a wonderful range of ladies fashion, stocking Joseph Ribkoff, Tina Taylor, Barbara Lebek, Frank Walder, Micha and Latte to name just a few.

With up to 50% off in the Summer Sale, now is the perfect time to visit them.

See advert in the Looking Good section.

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

32 THE VISITOR August 2017

Divine Wines on the High Street is more than just an off-licence – it’s also a bistro offering light lunches and coffees.

33 High Street Wincanton Telephone 01963 32356 www.papertrees.co.uk

HALF PRICE BOOKS ... ideal holiday reading

FETE? SHOW? Promote your Event or Business with our BANNERS, POSTERS, A-BOARD SERVICE

 Back-To-School Bargain Packs – Pens, Files, etc  Lamy Pen Stockists  Cold Drinks  Pocket Money Toys

WINCANTON

Camelot Photographic and Studio H Photography

August 2017 marks thirty years of trading in Wincanton for photographer Graham Hiscock. In issue 45 of The Visitor (August 1987), Michelle Trulock covered the opening of Graham’s shop, Camelot Video, in Church Street, and he now runs Camelot Photographic on the same road. Having specialised in wedding photography since 1991, Graham has won several prestigious awards for his photography, and undertakes commercial and fashion projects.

Camelot Photographic is a minilab / framers / one-stop digital shop offering digital photography, camera and photographic accessories plus passport and ID photos.

Graham and his wife Trixie (also a professional photographer) opened Studio H Photography next door to Camelot Photographic last summer. Trixie specialises in the portraiture of babies and is also a professional pet photographer.

Studio H is a state-of-the-art photographic studio offering a light

fashion-forward edit of women's clothing and accessories from lesser-known labels. One year on, they've become a destination for affordable, ethically-made and easy-wear separates as well as beautiful dresses for the party season. Youthful town-andcountry styling at its best. Look out for their Native Youth jackets and Aura Que bags, both a hit with the locals.

Say you saw it in The Visitor

The Wardrobe Boutique: 17 High Street, Wincanton.

and airy reception and two dedicated studios. Studio 1 is ideal for photographic sessions (groups / pets / commercial projects), and Studio 2 is a bespoke new-born / baby studio: a very safe and secure environment. They offer a refreshingly new approach to photography. See their advert for

Camelot Photographic’s celebratory offers or to find out more about Studio H, call 01963 34424 / 34189.

The Wardrobe Boutique

The Wardrobe Boutique on Wincanton High Street opened in August 2016, introducing a

CAMELOT PHoTograPHic 3 Church Street • Wincanton • BA9 9AA 01963 34424 │ 01963 34189

FREE PRINT with EVErY FraME PUrcHaSED Offer applies 17/07/17 – 31/08/17

30% OFF iNSTaNT PriNTS* *Minimum order of 20 PRINTS applies Offer applies 17/07/17 – 31/08/17

stylish creative informal...

WEDDiNg & PorTraiT PHoTograPHY coUPLES – BaBiES – FaMiLiES coMMErciaL ProJEcTS 3A Church Street • Wincanton • BA9 9AA 01963 34424 │ 01963 34189

THE VISITOR August 2017 33

ANDREW BARCLAY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BUTCHERS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 • Email: andrewbarclaybutchers@gmail.com www.andrewbarclaybutcher.com

SELLING QUALITY LOCALLY SOURCED MEAT, POULTRY & GAME AT COMPETITIVE PRICES SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL FARMERS HALF LAMBS ONLY £79 CUT TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS

SPECIAL OFFERS ALWAYS AVAILABLE BBQ MEATS − PLAIN & FLAVOURED NOW AVAILABLE

TRAY OF 30 FREE RANGE EGGS ONLY £5.19

WE ALSO STOCK A VARIETY OF FINE 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

ORDERS TAKEN FOR OUR MEAT FROM NORTH CADBURY VILLAGE SHOP & MAIDEN BRADLEY VILLAGE SHOP WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS

34 THE VISITOR August 2017

WINCANTON

Vista Mesh by Robert Frith Optometrists

In this harsh, modern environment that we now live in Robert Frith’s see a lot of patients complaining of visual stress.

Norville, a lens manufacturing company, have designed a unique lens formulation to reduce this.

The lens itself compromises a light brown contrasting tint to filter out light, a reflection free Anti-Glare coating, a Super Easyclean top coat, UV protecting filter and a unique Optical Mesh imbedded within the lens, unseen by the eye. These features reduce visual stress by aligning scattered light reflections, sharpening the contrast of what you are seeing and this therefore has been shown to help with night time driving, migraine attacks, reading, clinical afflictions and in general office environments.

Kimbers’ Farm Shop and the Somerset Trading Barn

Kimbers’ Farm Shop has long offered a wonderful selection of fresh meat and it is only right that it be renowned for this.

However, you may not realise that they have a lot more besides.

The Somerset Trading Barn at Kimbers’ Farm Shop! Join them for the grand opening: 30th July at 2pm.

Their range of fresh fruit and vegetables is superb, locally sourced and carefully selected.

They stock rare finds such as bottles of extra virgin olive oil from 500 year-old trees. They have a very well stocked deli counter, with a huge variety of cheeses, corned beef, dry cured gammon, and scotch eggs, while their butchery has all the wonderful fare you know such as sausages, bacon, burgers, chicken, mince, lamb and sirloin steak.

They also have cakes, cordials, ciders, beers, wines and spirits, gifts, cards, Neal’s Yard Remedies and books, sweets and toys.

Join them on Sunday 30th July at 2pm for the grand opening of the Somerset Trading Barn. The barn next to the farm shop (formerly a machinery store) has been transformed into a very exciting space, where eight

individual traders will be selling their wares. From antiques to French linen, there will be something to suit all pockets.

Watch this space for future developments: the upper level may be used as a gallery space or for functions.

We wish Kimbers’ and all those involved the very best of luck in this new venture!

VISIT OUR FABRIC DEPARTMENT IN WINCANTON

And choose at leisure from our extensive fabric library ...

Julie will be pleased to assist you!

WE ARE PLEASED TO OFFER

 Bespoke Curtain & Blind Service

 Cushions  Poles and Tracks

 Free Measuring & Estimating Service

 Professional and Helpful Advice

Luxaflex Shutters and Blinds Chatsworth Fabrics  Prestigious Textiles

Your Local Friendly Optometrists situated in the heart of Wincanton

 Home Visits  YOUR EYE HEALTH IS IMPORTANT TO US but we know that sometimes it can be difficult to get to us without assistance.

To make it easier for you, our opticians can visit you at home and carry out a full eye examination. NHS eligibility applies.  Vista-Mesh Lenses  OFFERING A UNIQUELY DESIGNED LENS, that can be beneficial to people suffering with Migraines, Night Time Driving Glare and much more.

To find out more visit us at

16 Market Place • Wincanton • BA9 9LA or ring 01963 31259

Wincanton

Tythings Commercial Centre Southgate Road Wincanton, BA9 9RZ  01963 824418 sales@sjhcarpets.co.uk www.sjhcarpets.co.uk

Also at: High Street, Tisbury, SP3 6LD

 01747 871178

THE VISITOR August 2017 35

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Pub Pages

B EER & S KI TTL ES P. A. BAXTER

Sunday 6th August JAZZ in the GArden 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 SurF & turF niGht Monday – Friday 2 CourSe SPeCiALS £10 per head

SPOOF! What pub-goer doesn't like a game of spoof? Well most of us do, although there are those who shy away from the game, and some poor souls who have never come across the game or have never been introduced to it. Yes, it's true; there are some sad people whose sheltered and deprived lives have meant they have never experienced the cut, thrust and thrills of the game.

So ... with just a little reminder to everyone, why don't we discuss the ins and outs of this most exciting and easy to play of pub games? It is, of course, a game of bluff, counter-bluff and double counter-bluff, with deception and guile an essential part of proceedings. Let us say there are four participants in this game.

The prize is first discussed; a bag of crisps each? A round of drinks?

Steak and chips? It's always worth knowing before you start.

In the news recently was that the controversial figure Mike Ashley, owner of the Sports Direct chain and some little football team or other, had, amongst other things, spoofed for who was to pay the legal fees of an investment bank – allegedly. Not being one to

The

follow anything in the world of sport other than sensible games (skittles etc) I was somewhat amused by these allegations. The article also alleged Mr Ashley would drink six pints of lager in a pub during a meeting or sleep under the table during business meetings as he found them 'boring'! He is also said to have drunk up to 12 pints of lager with vodka chasers before vomiting into the fireplace (again, allegedly).

At this point I think we should move back onto the hypothetical game with our four players.

Each player has three small coins. Any number of these – or zero – are concealed in the hands below the table and then the right hand with determined number of coins is brought into play. Hence, up to 12 coins are actually in play or indeed, as few as 'none'. Each player in turn then guesstimates the total number of coins in play and then, in turn again, they 'show' – totaling up the number as they go; usually in an increasingly raucous manner! If someone is correct, then that person drops out and play continues with the shouter of the correct number each time dropping out until the last two, from which there will be the lucky loser – who has to honour the prize for each player in the school.

Now, some of you may think 'surely this is pure luck', but believe me, although luck is part of it as in all good pub games, there is far more to it than meets the eye. Don't believe me? Then I recommend getting some experience at this game by playing for low stakes, or even before this observing a few spoof schools in action. A word of warning: there is a variant played in Wiltshire referred to as Kannoble, in which you cannot truly 'spoof'. In other words, when there are two of you left in the game then a (first) shout of 'four'

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane Norton Sub Hamdon

Mark, Helen and staff welcome you to ‘THE NELLY’

GOOD FOOD – GOOD BEER – GREAT ATMOSPHERE

 Tuesday & Wednesday is STEAK NIGHT and we now offer ...  Gammon Steak with Honey & Mustard Sauce Chicken Pesto, Salad and Chips Steak, Chips, Peas, Tomatoes and Mushrooms TWO Meals and a Bottle of Wine – £30

 Roast Lamb for TWO on Sunday – NOW £19.95  Pork or Beef – £10.95 each

 Paella & Sangria every Thursday Night – £14 per person 

Monday to Friday: 2 Course Lunch – £8 • 3 Course Lunch – £12

36 THE VISITOR August 2017

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

Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.co.uk

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Pub Pages

when you have zero in your hand, to throw your opponent (to give you last shout next round) is 'verboten', so be sure if you really can 'spoof', before play commences! Go on, give it a try!

It is always gratifying to get reaction to this column. Most is reasonably complimentary I'm pleased to say, some is controversial, and sometimes I receive articles and links to sites of interest, and I thank you all for your contributions. One regular correspondent personally gives me pages from various publications including The Times, proving how high-class our readership is, obviously! One article in said paper recently covered the MRO – the 'Market Rent Only', which, in a nutshell is where a tenant can pay the rent for their licensed premises but can buy their beer from anywhere they please. This would give a great deal of flexibility to the tenant, and even ensure there are local beers for local people etc. A great idea one might think, and I have heard of a pub within The Visitor area where this

appears from the outside anyway, to be working well. However, not buying the beer from the chain itself could back-fire insofar as the rent can be increased, and somewhat dramatically as it seems to have done in many cases. For instance, this could then mean that instead of paying £25,000 per annum rent, but beer at £140 per cask, the rent could be upped to £50,000, and whilst free to buy beer from wherever he or she liked, at a price of say £110 for every cask, this would have to add up to a massive saving over a twelve month period to make it an economically

viable proposition. There is supposed to be someone adjudicating over this whole issue, but unfortunately he has more than just one foot in the enemy camp ... I leave you to do a quick search about that one, dear reader ...

On the beer front I have to award my 'Beer of the Month' to Banks's Amber Ale, which at a mere 3.8% is truly a 'British Bitter', very enjoyable in both cask and (surprisingly) bottled form. You can even find it for 99p a bottle if you look in the right place; very handy for that swift one in an evening if you can't get

Vinny can’t wait to try the Hog Roast at The Old Pound Inn, Aller ...

BARRINGTON BOAR

Traditional Village Freehouse and B&B

Our lovely pub can be found in the picturesque and tranquil Somerset village of Barrington, just 2 miles from the market town of Ilminster.

The village has some of the most beautiful ham stone thatched cottages in the county, and is also the home to the National Barrington, Ilminster Trust property of Barrington Court, which was used recently Somerset, TA19 0JB for the filming of the BBC production of Wolf Hall. We can be Tel: 01460 259281 found in the heart of the village just opposite the beautiful Email: barringtonboar@outlook.com 13th century church of St. Mary the Virgin. www.barringtonboar.co.uk Bar open

Monday 6.00pm to 9.00pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 12.00 Noon to 2.30pm and 6.00pm to 11.00pm

Saturday 12.00 Noon to 12.00 Midnight Sunday 12.00 Noon to 9.00pm Food is available

Tuesday to Sunday 12.00 Noon to 2.00pm Tuesday to Saturday 6.30pm to 9.00pm

The Boar has a far reaching reputation for serving fresh quality food prepared by our young and innovative kitchen team. We have an interesting and varied menu for diners to choose from, along with a great selection of real ales, ciders, lagers and wines to complement your food, or for just having a relaxing drink.

If you are looking for a romantic break, a base for touring the area or a comfortable place to stay on business, then our 4 en suite bed and breakfast rooms would be perfect.

Clean and comfortable, with flat screen TV, free WIFI and tea and coffee making facilities, they are a home from home.

 10 minutes from A303 and M5.

40 minutes from Lyme Regis, West Bay & Beer

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

168 Hendford Hill YEoViL

“We're not bad people we’re not dirty, We’re not mean we love everybody But we do as we please”

FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink.

Last month Jo Fuller, the landlady of The Black Horse, was the first person to tell me that it was Ian Dury and the Blockheads and ‘What a Waste’ .

This month I have some nice news and some very sad news.

We had a young lady by the name of Judy Smith come along to The Quicksilver for what she thought was a nice spot of dinner only to find out that her family had organised a great party for her to celebrate her 80th birthday. All the gang were here, a nice bit of music, some food to wash down the beer and all in all a super evening. Well done Judy. xxx.

On a different note we have heard this week of the passing of a former barmaid of The Quickie, Emma Dalton. Her death was sudden and unexpected: all the more so for the fact that she was only 33.

She leaves 5 children and a partner and a lot of saddened friends. She will be missed.

R.I.P. Emma. x.

Next month on Friday 4th we have a fabulous band coming to play here: Dr. Bluegrass and the Illbilly 8 will be here live in the function room. It’s a FREE GIG and everyone is welcome.

Come on down and see what all the fuss is about.

Whilst I was out and about this month I popped out to the Rest and Welcome which, as you all probably know, is having an extensive makeover. Well I must say it is looking absolutely fantastic and will soon be completed and ready for action.

Make sure you give them a try.

See you next month.  TOOT TOOT!!!

BookiNgS

 01935 424721

THE VISITOR August 2017 37

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out of the house. Speaking of a w a r d s , m y h e a r t y congratulations go to the 'Bird in Hand' in Henstridge who have become the CAMRA Heart of Wessex Branch Pub of the Year, chosen from about 90 pubs in the area to go forward to the Wessex Regional Championship of East Somerset, Dorset, Hampshire, South Wiltshire, Isle of Wight and Channel Islands and then if successful, forward to the National Championships against 15 other regional winners. It has of course, local real ales and ciders and has involvement in the community.

Food is available lunchtime and there is a skittle alley and quiz nights. Congratulations to Mark and his staff!

My readership will hopefully recall my interest in the previously long-lost game of 'Loggats' revived by myself and contemporaries. A chain of events has led this to be leapt upon by a group of enthusiasts in Perth.

That is; Perth, Australia! When this comes to fruition I will be delighted to report further. If

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

you're still pondering about the game and its modus operandi, take a look online to previous Visitors where we explain the game in detail. Go on, your curiosity is nibbling at you!

Amazingly, the Aussies with whom I correspond are some of those who are not au fait with the glorious game of spoof. I aim to educate them, although one thing is for sure, in my next game of spoof I shall NOT be playing in Mr Ashley's school which was for a mere £750,000 (allegedly)!

I have to say however that I have had some pretty fine wins to my credit over the years. For example, how about being out first round, last shout – with a 'two' – in a nine-player game for a round of drinks?

So anyway; I fancy a spoof.

Steak and chips. Anyone up for it ... ?

P.A.B. (skittlealley@hotmail.com)

Charity Football Match Update

defibrillator in the club house).

The rest to be used by the Football Club for up keep of the ground and club house.

Many thanks go to all involved,

especially Matt Alford for arranging the event.  Congratulations on raising such a wonderful amount of money, for such a worthy cause.

Pictures from the charity football match between West and Middle Chinnock and Yeovil Town Legends.

Pictures by Kate Alford.

Last month we advised our readers of a charity football match between West and Middle Chinnock Football Club and Yeovil Town Legends. The match took place on 8th July and the fantastic £3100 raised will be spent as follows:  To Matt Fricker’s family £1000 to help towards furniture to help Matt.  To Dean Barton Hospital £500  To West & Middle Chinnock defibrillators, £300 & (£500 for a

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

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

AUGUST ...

Dr. BLUEGRASS and the ILLBILLY 8 Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil

Friday 4th

Sunday 6th Saturday 19th

JAZZ in the GARDEN Montague Inn, Shepton Montague

The MANGLED WURZELS Catash Inn, North Cadbury

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

The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH

LIVE MUSIC with The Mangled Wurzels

Saturday 19th August • Starts 8pm Cider  BBQ  Great Music  Back by popular demand!

DIARY DATE for September: Macmillan Coffee Morning r Large Bee Gardens

38 THE VISITOR August 2017

Friday 29th September • Starts 8:45am Raising money for excellent causes Watch for further details

 North Cadbury 01963 441531

Skittle Alley

The

Pub Pages

CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE (CAMRA) Pub of the Year 2017 – Heart of Wessex Branch

The Heart of Wessex Branch of CAMRA has named the Bird in Hand, Henstridge, as their Pub of The Year 2017.

Against stiff competition the Bird in Hand has been chosen from around 90 pubs in the branch area. The pub will now go forward to compete in the Wessex Regional Championship (Wessex Region covers East Somerset, Dorset, Hampshire, South Wiltshire, Isle of Wight and the Channel Islands) and, if successful, will then compete against the other 15 regional pubs for the title of CAMRA National Pub of The Year 2017.

The branch has chosen the Bird

in Hand for its excellent support for local real ale, ciders and its community involvement. There is always a choice of regularly changing, competitively priced ales and ciders. Customers always receive a great welcome and attentiveness to their needs.

Food is available lunchtimes and is known for its good value.

Of particular interest to CAMRA is the community involvement of the pub, with the pub acting as a local meeting area and participating in village life.

It still has its skittle alley and has regular quiz nights.

The Bird in Hand, built in the early 1700’s with bakery behind, is a traditional country inn and stands just a few hundred yards to the South of the A30, an original coaching route.

DON’T FORGET ...

“Music in the Marquee” at The Red Lion, Babcary, Saturday 29th July, playing sounds of soul, funk, jazz and pop. Make sure you contact them for information on availability. Tel: 01458 223230.

And remember to save the date Saturday 16th September in your diaries for a delicious Hog Roast at The Old Pound Inn, Aller.

Contact them on 01458 250469 for further information.

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

By John Osborne • Answers can be found on page 47

1. 'Earth Wind and Fire' sang about a 'Boogie ...' what?

2. Name the band that said 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother'

3. Recently, Harry Styles was singing about 'The Sign of the ... ?'

4. Who once had 'Subterranean Homesick Blues'?

5. Name the American DJ Duo who joined 'Coldplay' on 'Something Just Like This'

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

7. Name the country from where 'The Scorpions' originate.

8. 'Love Ain't Something You Can Get For Free' – sang which lady recently?

9. The 'Dark Horse' record label was founded by which Beatle in 1974?

10. Which Irish folk song did Thin Lizzie adapt for their first hit?

Bonus Question Name the year for Q10.

Question Impossible The song 'Tainted Love' we associate with 'Soft Cell', but who recorded it first, in 1964?

Great Quotes in Music (93) "If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician.

I often think in music. I live my day-dreams in music. I see my life in terms in music" – ALBERT EINSTEIN

AROUND THE

HOUSES IN WINCANTON ... a Sunday Carvery is available at The Millers Inn ... sports fans are well catered for at The Bear with BT Sports Live ... attractive hanging baskets at The Dolphin Hotel ... hot drinks and cake now available at Uncle Tom’s Cabin ... tasty food served Tuesday to Sunday at The Unicorn, Bayford ... excellent play facilities for children at The Hunters Lodge, Leigh ... don’t forget that there is Jazz in the Garden at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague on Sunday 6th August ... Sunday Carvery £9.50 at The Old Pound Inn, Aller ... and check out the Tuesday take-away pizza deals at The Firehouse, Curry Rivel.

Bobbing along to Butleigh we find the hanging baskets a delight at The Rose & Portcullis ... booking advisable for Sunday Lunch at The Barton Inn, Barton St David ... always a good pint at The Quarry Inn, Keinton Mandeville ... and The White Hart is open for business once again in Castle Cary.

Galloping on to Galhampton where a good time was had by all who attended the Rum & Music Fest at The Orchard Inn ... back by popular demand are The Mangled Wurzels on Saturday 19th August at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury ... welcome to new hosts at The Stags Head, Yarlington ... the Sunday Carvery is always popular at The Sparkford Inn, Sparkford ... and an excellent choice of dishes on the menu at The Half Moon Inn at Mudford.

Yomping on to Yeovil where Dr. Bluegrass and the Illbilly 8 are appearing at The Quicksilver Mail on 4th August, a free gig (check them out on YouTube) ... plenty of seating and friendly service at The Airfield Tavern ... you can be sure of a well-kept pint at The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon ... ramblers always welcome at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock ... food served 7 days a week at Dinnington Docks, Dinnington ... and finally, if you’re on holiday in the West Country, an ideal base for touring the Somerset countryside is The Barrington Boar at Barrington near Ilminster.

They Say

That the Weight Watchers at Wetherspoons in Yeovil, are not only eating the ‘Porky Pies’ but telling them too.

That due to recent UFO sightings over Osmington Mills in Dorset, two Yeovil Aliens have made it a voluntary no go area.

That Henrietta Love of Closworth has been potty training her horse.

That runner beans, beetroot tops and lupins are particular favourites this year of the deer in Chiselborough.

That 'Mother-Teresa’ unexpectedly competed in the half-triathlon that took place in Langport recently.

That ex South Cadbury resident Julian Morey would not get off of the steam train from Whitby to Aidensfield (Heartbeat Country), because he thought the train had stopped at NER. It had to be explained to him that NER stands for NORTH EAST RAILWAY.

That it was BYOW, not BYOB, at one address in North Cadbury recently, due to the arrival of some Ready Mix: Bring Your Own Wheelbarrow!

That ACEArts, along with the Mid-Somerset branch of The Arts Society, made it possible for international artist Jan Niedojadlo to visit King Ina Academy in Somerton and help the pupils to build a ‘Pod’ sculpture for their playground.

That some Wincanton residents have been experiencing problems making a connection ... to the internet.

That the Gramophones Theatre Company will be in Dorchester with their tea tent at different locations, including Dorchester Market and the County Show, to collect people’s memories and stories of Shire Hall. From Tuesday 29th August to Friday 8th September.

That a 300-year old silver tankard has been brought home to Bruton after the town's museum bought it at auction at Lawrences in Crewkerne.

That serious flooding was avoided in North Cadbury recently, thanks to the efforts of the Richards family, who donned wet-weather gear to clear the blocked drains of debris.

That the Cattistock Countryside Show Committee, announced that they will be holding the 55th Cattistock Countryside Show on Sunday 6th August, 9am to 5pm.

THE VISITOR August 2017 39

Pamper your Pet

The cattery at Happy Tails Yeovil. 10 bright and spacious suites in a woodland location. They believe that while you’re relaxing on holiday, your cat should be too!

Brunel Pet Centre in the Brunel Precinct, Somerton – everything for your pet including a welcoming bowl of water for passing pets and a warm welcome from Karen the proprietor!

Brunel Pet Centre 5a Brunel Shopping Precinct — SOMERTON — Tel: 01458 274980 Email: info@brunel-pets.com Website: www.brunel-pets.com

Many Brands of Dog & Cat Food Stocked Dog & Cat Treats, Toys & Beds Small Animal Foods, Treats Hay and Straw Wide Selection of Wild Bird Food & Feeders ORDERS WELCOME

If there is something you require which we don’t stock, we will endeavour to order it for you

Happy Tails Yeovil

Happy Tails Yeovil is a familyrun, custom-built Cattery conveniently situated along the A30 on the outskirts of Yeovil, only metres from the owner’s home and surrounded by woodland.

Their 10 suites are bright and spacious and have been manufactured from natural wood to International Cat Care Standards (formerly FAB). The woodland location provides natural stimulation for guests, and each has a run with an

www.happytailsyeovil.co.uk • 07957 473407 • pets@happytailsyeovil.co.uk 100 West Coker Road, YEOVIL, BA20 2JG happytailsyeovil

Brand new family-run cattery with only 10 bright and spacious suites

Natural stimulation from the tranquil woodland location

Meticulous infection control

Regular interaction & grooming depending on individual need

Approved by International Cat Care, Insured and licensed by S.S.D.C.

Flexible all-inclusive care for just £10 per day (£5 per additional cat) “We believe while you’re relaxing on holiday your cat should be too”

40 THE VISITOR August 2017

outside view and a heated indoor sleeping area. Flexible, allinclusive care is available for just £10 per day (£5 per additional cat), and regular interaction and grooming is provided, depending on the individual’s needs. There are daily play sessions for younger cats (with cat-safety approved toys) and brushing and stroking sessions for older guests.

A radio is available on request.

They have a range of wet and dry food, and feed at the same frequency your cat is used to. The litter trays, bowls, bedding and toys are thoroughly disinfected between guests and infection control is meticulous.

With Happy Tails Yeovil, your cat is in safe hands with all the fussing they could wish for.

Happy Tails believe that while you’re relaxing on holiday, your cat should be too!

Delaware Veterinary Group

Delaware Veterinary Group will be at this year’s Mid Somerset Show on Sunday 20th August in Shepton Mallet. Their stand can be found in the Upper Showfield near the Dog Show Arena and will represent all the areas of expertise that the practice

provides, from small furries to cattle and horses. With their own staff on hand to answer your questions and refreshments and games too, go and find them, meet the team and have some fun.

They look forward to seeing you there!

Bruton Country Centre

Bruton Country Centre is an independent, family run business in Bruton. They specialise in animal feeds, animal housing and accessories, garden supplies, general hardware and home DIY. They have recently introduced new ranges of dog foods and are a local supplier of Edgard & Cooper dog food: a delicious and healthy dog food made with natural ingredients and fresh meat.

They have a fantastic range of dog beds, toys, collars and leads, and a wonderful selection of animal feeds and accessories for all animals from hamster to horse, including real tuna treats for cats!

They are now a pond fish supplier, including goldfish and koi, and have a great range of aquatic plants, feeds, filters and medications.

Pamper your Pet

Pet Place on the Fosse Trading Estate Shepton Mallet, where you can shop with ease from their wide range of animal feeds & accessories.

Open 7 days a week.

Your beloved pet captured in oil or pastels by Carole Anne Adlington.

A wonderful gift or something to treasure.

Crossroads Pet Supplies

Have you discovered Crossroads Pet Supplies? Situated on the Yeovil to Sherborne road, this shop is packed from floor to ceiling – hutches and cages, toys and leads, beds and bowls, seeds and shampoos! All can be found here. Whether you like to feed the wild birds or have a pet at home, you can get all your animal feeds from Crossroads.

Why not call in? There is ample free parking right outside the door: ideal if you are purchasing food in bulk.

Bruton Country Centre have ranges of food, toys and accessories for all animals and are now a pond fish supplier.

Garden & Pond — Pet Supplies — D.I.Y. — Small Holders

NEW IN ... Pond Fish & Aquatic Plants Perennials • Bedding Plants • Seeds • Potatoes Tools • Composts (multi-buy discount) • Gravel Wide range of Animal Feeds & Accessories ... from hamster to horse!

Wisteria Yard, West End, BRUTON, BA10 0AR Enquiries: 01749 812743 • www.bruton-country-centre.co.uk

THE PET PLACE A family run business for over 18 years From Hamsters to Horses!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Stockist of ... Burns, Natures Way, Canagan James Wellbeloved, etc Pets Beds – Toys – Hutches – Bedding – Animal Feeds (small or bulk purchases) Horses  Sheep  Pigs  Poultry  Dogs  Cats  Rabbits  Birds Extensive range of Wild Bird Food at sensible prices

FREE PARKING OUTSIDE THE DOOR

Monday – Friday 9am – 5.30pm, Saturday 9am – 5pm, Sunday 10am – 2pm

Unit 6, Fosse Lane Industrial Estate, Fosse Lane SHEPTON MALLET • BA4 4PN Tel: 01749 345863 / 343450

THE VISITOR August 2017 41

The Shoe Museum, Street

Children’s World

See the shoes from your favourite children’s books at The Shoe Museum, Street, and enjoy fun activities such as designing a bookmark, dressing up as the BFG, and Dorothy and the Elves, following trails and making ruby slippers.

2017 marks the 200th anniversary of English novelist Jane Austen’s death. Austen’s books, set among the English middle and upper classes, are notable for their wit, social observation and insights into the lives of early 19th century women. The Shoe Museum’s exhibition ‘Sense and Sensibility and Shoes’ looks at the fashion and culture of Austen’s time, focusing on footwear.

With something for visitors of all ages, free admission, and open from 10am every day except Sunday, The Shoe Museum is a wonderful choice for a summer holiday day out. Visit the-shoemuseum.org or call 01458 842243 for further information.

iOme Youth Camp

iOme Youth Camp was a fantastic success last summer so it is back again to give your children an opportunity to meet new friends and have an amazing time this holiday! They provide a safe and beautiful countryside environment for children aged between 8 – 13.

They run four exciting 2 hour workshops everyday including extra time for early drop off and late pick up for working parents.

You can choose to book your child in for the day, week, 2 weeks or just choose the workshops they will enjoy the most! Activities vary from outdoor sports, nature walks, den building, jewellery making, dance, filming and much more! All their staff are CRB checked and experienced in childcare.

To book your child’s place now, go to www.iomefitness.com/youthcamp-childcare-somerset. Book 4 workshops in a day and get the 5th free!

To see photos of previous camps check out their facebook page

www.facebook.com/iomefitness Email info@iomefitness.com or call 07470 299494 Give your kids a summer to remember!

Camps run in both their South Petherton and Bridport venues.

My Dinky Bear

Wild Cardz, Wincanton, looks forward to stocking Carte Blanche’s My Dinky Bear.

My Dinky Bear builds on Carte Blanche’s Me to You range, and will be instantly recognisable as part of this family. With a range of items for boys and girls, there is sure to be something of appeal, at a price point that suits you.

Due mid-August. Contact Wild Cardz for more information (see advert in Wincanton feature).

The Gartell Light Railway

Whether you are a family seeking somewhere different to go on Sunday 30th of July or a railway enthusiast, there is something for everyone at the Gartell Light Railway. Their trains may be half size but they offer an enjoyable leisurely trip through the Somerset countryside along part of the old Somerset and Dorset line, which ran from Bath to Bournemouth until 1966.

This private railway is owned

by John and Christine Gartell and has developed considerably since it first opened to the public in 1991 but is only open on a

Enjoy a leisurely trip through the Somerset countryside along part of the old Somerset and Dorset line on the Gartell Light Railway!

42 THE VISITOR August 2017

limited number of days each year.

On their open days they have three 3-coach trains running every 20 minutes from 10.30 until 4.30.

They normally have 2 steam locos and one diesel but one of the steam locos has been stripped down completely for its compulsory 10-year boiler test.

All being well it will be back in service for the forthcoming open days.

You can find them off the A357 at Yenston, between Wincanton and Henstridge: just look for the signs. They have a large free car park and areas for picnics. Go and enjoy food and drink in their café or just spend the day riding or watching the trains.

You will find their volunteer staff friendly and helpful to make your day enjoyable: they are fully trained to ensure your safety. The trains are safely controlled by signals which are operated from two signal boxes and these are open to visitors.

Their next open day this year is this coming Sunday, 30th of July and the following one on Bank Holiday Monday 28th of August.

Fares are Adults £8.00, Seniors £7.00, Children under 14 £5.00 and family tickets (2 adults and up to 2 children) £22.00.

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

MOTOR ING

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I HAVE WRITTEN before about the smaller and perhaps more obscure makers of motorcycles that took place in Britain during the early years of the motorcycle industry. I recently rediscovered a photo I had taken some years ago whilst on a riding event in the Isle of Wight.

The photo is reproduced here and shows a mid twenties Ivy machine.

Ivy motorcycles were made at Aston Cross, Birmingham, from 1907 to around 1934. The company was founded by Sidney Newman and he was assisted over the years by several of his brothers. They were a small manufacturer but still produced around 6,000 machines during their existence. Like many other small producers they were obliged to buy-in many of their components. For example they used engines made by Precision, GreenPrecision, JAP and Blackburne, as well as some two stroke engines made by themselves. Most were of small capacity but a few larger engines, including V twins, were used. The photo shows a machine from the twenties with a larger Blackburne engine and a Moss three speed gearbox. Many had the smart two tone green and black livery seen here. One suspects that parts supply for manufacturers such as these would have been problematic which might be one reason why they used so many different suppliers of engines, and another reason why you seldom see two Ivy machines which are identical. Any Ivy machine is a rare sight on our roads these days. This particular machine has been well restored and it is a delight to see it being used.

There are many events now that summer is well and truly with us.

A reminder first that on the 30th July the Jeff Clew Memorial Run will be held at the Haynes International Motor Museum.

Assembly from 10am for an 11am start. No pre-entry so just turn up

Pictured: A mid twenties Ivy machine. and ride or just come along and spectate. The Somerset Section start August with their club night on the 3rd, and this will be a guest speaker.

Next on the 6th is the Sign Post Rally and Social Run from Creech St Michael Village Hall. On the 13th there is a new event again starting at the Haynes International Motor Museum. This is the Veteran Only Run which is organised specially for the machines made before 1915. A short and flat route has been selected as suitable for these old machines. Not everyone has a Veteran machine of course but anyone interested will be welcome to come and have a look. Lastly Somerset have an Evening Meet at the Ring of Bells, Ashcott, on the 17th. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage have their club night on the 14th and this will be an auction of motorcycle related bits. The Dorset Section have their Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 2nd followed on the 6th by the Border Run starting from the Orchard Park Garden Centre at Gillingham. Next will be the Autojumble and Barbecue for the club night on the 9th (remember that this is now at the Henstridge Golf Centre) and lastly on the 26th

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they have the Breakfast Meet back at West Stour.

An event I always enjoy and plug on these pages is the Historic Vehicle Run which takes place annually from the Sherborne School Courts. This is organised by the Sherborne Lions Club and all proceeds go to local charities.

Set in the most beautiful grounds among the school buildings and the mixture of cars, vans and motorcycles, really does make this a unique event. Make sure you enter early or just come along and look at the location, the vehicles and listen to the Sherborne Town Band. What could be better on a sunny Sunday in August.

Another event of note is the Somerset Sections Autojumble to be held at the Bath and West Showground on Saturday 12th August. This twice yearly event would normally have taken place in October but the owners of the property have dictated a change and this is the alternative date chosen. Always popular and very social it will seem strange to attend

without a gale blowing and perhaps even a bit of warm sunshine. That should please the outside stallholders. A must do event because this might be the occasion when you find that elusive part or come across a real bargain. But it is the social element which draws most people there.

I recently attended our club's Banbury Run at Gaydon in Oxfordshire. Our premier event saw nearly 500 machines, all made prior to 1931, take to the roads once more.

There were 78 different marques represented of which 15 were of nonBritish manufacture. A burning hot day did cause a few breakdowns but most of course got round unscathed.

Thousands of people line the roads in places just to cheer the riders on their way. The whole event is quite a spectacle and well worth a visit.

Local riders were well represented.

Official duties precluded me from riding this year but I will certainly be back next year, I am like a big kid as I look forward with eager anticipation already.

Rod Hann.

Caravan Storage

THE VISITOR August 2017 43

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming

August already?

Orchard Park

DON’T THE MONTHS flash by!

Everyone says the same, the older you get the faster the time goes past. My theory is more or less the same but I think that the older I get, the slower I get and so every task takes longer, which means I use more time.

Hey ho, nothing much I can do about that.

Did you catch that story at the end of May about Pampas Grass?

Apparently it is a well-known ‘fact’ that next to a hot tub, Pampas grass in your front garden is like a sign that this is a house for ‘swingers’! But with more Tinder than gardening going on, sales of Pampas grass have declined. Now I didn’t know that and I have sold Pampas

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

grass plants for years. I have no idea why people bought them, I thought they liked the gorgeous plumes at this time of year!

Thinking about it, it takes a while for a young Pampas grass to develop full sized plumes, so if you are planning a ‘swinging ‘ lifestyle you’d have to plan ahead but by the time the plant (your advert) is up and ‘swinging’ you may have changed your mind!

So, apart from that, how’s the garden doing? Mine’s ok, could do with some rain as the grass has pretty well stopped growing; actually it’s very patchy with some bits growing faster than others so it still needs cutting. The

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

patchiness comes from variations in the soil and in the individual grasses. Most lawns are a real mix of grass species. New lawns grown from seed or laid turf will be based on seed mixtures designed to produce a garden-worthy sward.

Old lawns develop a mix of selfselected grasses over the years so it could be full of all sorts of things.

There are times when my front lawn has more flowers in it than the borders! I think it looks great but it wouldn’t win any prizes.

A good lawn is the centre for many gardens but it’s not the be all and end all. Smaller gardens survive well enough without grass but still retaining an open area that is important in any garden design. Classic substitutes for lawn include gravel and artificial grass but you could use low growing herbs such as thymes and chamomile or alpines such as Sedum, creeping varieties of Phlox, Campanula, Aubrietia and Veronica (speedwell) but you probably wouldn’t play football on any of these!

It is quite hard to keep colour going in August but that’s where the annuals score especially if they are deadheaded and fed regularly. Repeat flowering herbaceous plants such as Achillea and Campanula, Coreopsis, Dianthus and Echinacea are either long or repeat flowering and respond to being cut back and fed producing a fresh crop of flowers. Combined with late flowering sorts such helianthus and Rudbeckia can give a colourful display through the summer.

Roses have done quite well this year with relatively little disease problems although if stressed through lack of water and feed, are liable to show infection by the rust fungus. You will need to use a fungicide such as Roseclear or Multirose, clear away the infected leaves as they fall and give the plant some help with a liquid feed and mulch.

Summer feeding tops up the spring treatments, and I use liquid feeds as often that is the only way to get enough feed into a fast growing plant. Liquid feeds do fall into different categories and it is worth picking those that fit the right stage of plant growth.

Phostrogen and Tomorite work well with flowering and fruiting plants because of the higher levels of Potash and phosphates they contain, Miracle-Gro has higher nitrogen and produces strong green leafy growth as well as flowers. It’s all horses for courses.

Plants for August

Lots of ornamental grasses come into their own, but I think I’ve already dealt with that (see above!) so let’s look at the glorious

Buddleja; unequalled in its ability to attract butterflies. The scent from its long sprays of flowers seems to attract every butterfly in the area. Most varieties grow on any soil, provided it’s a sunny spot, and reach a height of roughly 3m. They are as tough as anything and generally considered as pioneer plants – one of the plants that colonises open ground, or industrial sites before other species move in.

Colours range from white, light blue, lilac to deep reddish purple for Buddleja davidii varieties, and yellow for Buddleja x weyeriana.

There is also a group of dwarf Buddleja varieties called the ‘Buzz’ series that work really well in containers bringing butterflies to the patio. A good pot, a robust compost and a sunny spot are all you need.

My other August joy is the Hebe, also known as the veronica bush, a great plant to bring some sensational colour into your garden. The Hebe, named after the Greek Goddess of Youth who served nectar and ambrosia to the gods, is deliciously versatile and is also incredibly popular, with gardeners and butterflies alike!

It will certainly cover any dull spots in your summer garden and it will replace them with some much needed colour and vitality.

The Hebe’s heavenly blooms will also keep your garden looking richer all the way through the summer months and well into October, enticing butterflies from far and wide to feed from their nectar filled flowers alongside the Buddlejas.

Hebes are evergreen, wonderfully easy to grow and maintain, thriving in most soil

types. Numerous species and varieties exist with a wide range of colourful flowers and decorative leaves, all adding atmosphere and life to your garden. You can create all kinds of interesting looks with Hebes – combine some white-flowered, shiny leaved Hebes with Hydrangea paniculata in metallic containers to give that expensive, luxurious look, or go for the untamed, wild effect, with a mixture of blue, violet and deep green Hebes into a variety of wooden pots and weathered containers.

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August is a holiday month for many people and that can be a challenge to keep plants in house and garden alive while you’re away. A good neighbour is really useful here, but if you are not lucky enough to have a friend at hand then you will try a few other things.

House plants might be safer outdoors or at least moved to a shadier spot in the house and not left on a sunny window sill, and placed on a tray with gravel and water to provide a reservoir that the plant can use while you are away.

Outdoor hanging baskets and planters will fizzle out if left without water. Again, move anything you can to a sheltered shady spot and give a good soaking. If no friendly neighbour is available, then an upturned 2litre drink bottle will slowly drip into the compost and add water for a little while. Tomato plants in grow bags are harder to keep going. A larger water container with a narrow pipe from the bottom would work, allowing water to drip into the bag.

Keeping crops going is essential, pick hard and weed hard before you go. It’s amazing how much everything grows in the short time you are away!

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There are always other jobs to be done; in the fruit garden – early and mid-season strawberry plants need to be cut back tidied up and mulched to get the plants to recover after their exertion.

Healthy runners can be potted up; raspberry canes that have fruited should be removed so that the new canes can grow well enough to be trained for next year’s crop.

Summer pruning is every bit as important as winter pruning and is absolutely essential for fan trained peaches, nectarines and cherries, as well as for espalier and cordon apples and pears.

Trim back the long side shoots so that they are only 1 leaf over the basal cluster or leaves – sounds tricky but is very obvious once you look at how the trees grow.

If you are short of time you can always get the hedge trimmer out to take back the superfluous growth that is draining the plants and deflecting goodness from the fruit crop. Then trim back properly later in the year. While you have the secateurs handy and

if you have a wisteria then apply the same rules to that and follow up with a further pruning in January.

Vegetable gardens – regular picking helps production. If you don’t pick then the plant will assume that no more is needed!

Onions, shallots and garlic should be lifted and left in the sun to dry for better storage as wet bulbs will rot.

Check potatoes and tomatoes for blight – any brown spotted and blotched leaves should be removed and burnt. Finish lifting early and second early potatoes before either the blight or the slugs make them unusable.

Caterpillars will strip brassicas in no time. Check to see if they’re there. Either pick them off, or spray with pyrethrum (plant derived insecticide) or a manufactured product such as Provado Ultimate Bug Killer.

Crops are really best covered with a fine mesh cover.

There is still time to sow salad and leaf crops for harvest this year. Radish, spinach, lettuce,

parsley and rocket as well as herbs such as coriander and chervil.

Somerset NGS Garden of the Month, August 2017: Elworthy Cottage

ELWORTHY COTTAGE is 600 feet above sea level situated just within the Exmoor National Park. The garden slopes north and is exposed to the northwesterly winds that blow up the valley from the Bristol Channel.

Rainfall is quite high even for the South West at about 40+ inches per year.

Mike & Jenny Spiller moved here in 1976 to a garden that was mostly grass and for 10 years did not really change things much, grazing their goats on the grass.

Over the next few years they made one new island bed a year to accommodate their growing collection of herbaceous perennials, trees and shrubs to make a year round garden that blends into the surrounding countryside and is a haven for wildlife.

The margins of the garden are left in a less manicured state which, with the natural hedging helps provide wildlife habitat and also blurs the transition to the beautiful countryside beyond.

In the flower beds they allow self seeding of things like primroses, aquilegias, red campion, sweet rocket, white

foxgloves, black-stemmed cow parsley and purple angelica. This helps to produce the cottage garden effect.

The vegetable garden is more formal, divided into 8 plots by brick paths. A living willow screen was planted about 13 years ago as a semi see through windbreak and screen for the vegetable garden.

In the wildflower area, flowering starts with wild daffodils followed by fritillaries , primroses and cuckoo flower then pignut and finally yellow rattle (this reduces the vigour of the grass). The wildflower area is cut for hay in mid to late summer and the grass is kept short after that with all grass cuttings removed to help reduce fertility.

Disability information: Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Facilities: Plants For Sale in Adjoining Nursery, Coaches.

Address and Postcode: Elworthy, Taunton TA4 3PX. Contact Information: Mike & Jenny Spiller, Telephone: 01984 656427, Email: mike@elworthy-cottage.co.uk, Website: www.elworthycottage.co.uk.

Opening Dates and Time: Monday 28th August from 11am to 5pm.

Also Open by Arrangement: April to September.

Admission: £3, children free.

Directions: 12 miles NW of Taunton on B3188 between Wiveliscombe and Watchet.

Other Gardens Open for the NGS: To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres, or go to: http:// www.ngs.org.uk

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46 THE VISITOR August 2017

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the end bit...

PAPERCHASE

THE OXFORD English Reference Dictionary defines déjà vu as ‘the feeling that something similar has already been experienced’. I frequently experience déjà vu when I read the Western Gazette and the Western Daily Press because the editors of these newspapers, both published by Local World (a subsidiary of Trinity Mirror) seem increasingly to be lifting chunks of each other’s papers and reprinting them unaltered.

Let me give you some examples. Pages 59, 60 and 61 of the 13th July issue of the Western Gazette carried a test drive report on the Kia cee’d GT car, complete with seven photographs of the vehicle. I thought it looked familiar, and indeed it was. I had seen the same report and the same photos on pages 31, 32 and 33 of the Western Daily Press on 7th July. It would have been nice to read a second opinion on the car rather than the repeat of the first opinion.

The same issue of the Western Gazette contained the usual ‘Property and Living’ supplement and in it, on pages 18 and 19, was the ‘Your Garden’ spread by Diarmuid Gavin who wrote about herbaceous borders, garden jobs

for the week and his plant of the week, and answered a reader’s query about blueberry bushes. All good stuff, except that the identical spread, complete with the same nine photographs, had appeared on pages 26 and 27 of the Western Daily Press as recently as the previous day.

And it’s a two-way traffic! Page 2 of the aforementioned ‘Property and Living’ supplement carried an article, photograph and eight tips on securing your home from burglars while you are away on holiday, and all of this subsequently formed page 4 of the property section of the 15th July issue of the Western Daily Press. And pages 24 and 25 of the supplement was given over to ‘Property Talk’ – snippets of gossip about properties in West London, Kent, Los Angeles and Virginia that had been owned by minor celebrities and were now on the market. Despite its lack of local relevance the same double-page spread was printed on pages 8 and 9 of the Western Daily Press’s property section just two days later.

I appreciate that some of the news stories in the local editions of the Western Gazette could be of interest to a wider readership and can understand why the editor of the Western Daily Press sometimes lifts them and gives them a wider circulation. But lifting feature articles is tantamount to short-changing readers who have forked out for both papers and in my opinion is unacceptable.

Similarly unacceptable is the slipshod page-proofing that allowed the error in the Western Daily Press, reproduced above, to appear in print. The columnist is Ron Bendell, and he has been

contributing his column to Saturday’s paper for as long as I can remember. So I’m surprised that, even with the portrait photo

as a clue, the sub-editor couldn’t remember the man’s name. Or be bothered to ask someone.

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.

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

on page 39

'Wonderland' 'The Hollies' 'Times' Bob Dylan 'Chain Smokers' 'How Long' – Ace Germany Elkie Brooks George Harrison 'Whiskey in the Jar'

Solution to July

Sudoku

Bonus Question 1973

Question Impossible Gloria Jones

THE VISITOR August 2017 47

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Mister Oven

HEATING & HOME STORE

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264

Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service ✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴

Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm

www.misteroven.co.uk

Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

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

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

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

Taxis

TAXI

Sue

Mob: 07711 572038

www.taxiatcastlecarystation.co.uk

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners Covering Somerset and Dorset

AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Eco-Friendly Materials Used

HENSTRIDGE SELF-STORAGE

OUTSTANDING RATES Tel: 07947 581541

Your calling card reaching 60,000 readers

24-Hour Locksmith Key Cutting and Boarding Up MOBILE 07709 433922 PHONE 01963 359516

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

Roofing

Bourton Roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE EST I M AT ES

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

Transport & Storage

ANYTIME LOCKS

Experienced + Fully Insured Friendly Staff

 01747 840064

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

Locksmith

DEADLINE for ADVERTS for the September Issue is Friday 11th August

Subscriptions Subscribe to the

VISITOR MAGAZINE for just £18 per annum

Caricatures for Special Gifts

 01963 351256 ... to advertise HERE

Fire & Security Alarms

THE VISITOR August 2017 49

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. 370 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG – to arrive by Friday 11th August.

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of The Visitor.

Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

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

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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

GENT – Looking for a local lady for companionship. Street area. Please call 01458 440094.

Catering / Mobile Bars

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

Allotments

ALLOTMENTS near Baltonsborough. All plots now taken. Some will become available later this year. To be added to waiting list tel. 01458 850734

Services

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

KATIE’S CARE. I’m a Support Worker with 18 years’ experience and 3 A levels in Health and Social Care. I support adults and children with disabilities. I support with personal, outings etc. I have many great references, fully insured, CRB checked. Tel: 07477 649028.

Wanted

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DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables.

Daves Tools - Tel: 01935 428975

Across:

ALL SPORTS PROGRAMMES and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.

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POSTCARDS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. 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.

O L D M O TO R C y C L E S wA N T E D .

Any condition, collected. Cash paid.

Tel: 07779 366005.

GUNS wANTED for cash. Any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. Tel: 07970 742471.

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.

Storage

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

20 FT CONTAINERS available to rent in Castle Cary. Tel: 07582 154837.

RECORDS WANTED:

VINYL wanted from the ‘60s to the present day most genres required including rock and pop, folk, progressive etc. GOOD PRICES PAID.  Please call Rod on 01823 480369.

50 THE VISITOR August 2017

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Angry talk puzzles. [10] Twist breeze. [4] Rung at cell in order to make pressing visit. [6,4] Go beyond mountain route. [4] About an opening found in canal tunnel. [4] Sleuth arranged to vet die, etc.

[9] Duet Mack arranged for waterfowl supper. [8] Happening as part of mad venture. [6] During Lent, first of all truths are hidden. [6] Shoddier, as crime confusion swallows alcohol. [8] ACDC swore about idol. [6,3] Tapering cylinder once revised. [4] Give out! Time up! [4] Unexpected, with account of Scotland Yard, hospital department and not quite all.

[10] River trial. [4] Cowboy resorting to grander ire. [5,5]

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Send sister around protestants.

[10] Sort of icy, came a dear period of study. [8,4] Close mixture in a dent for a young person. [10] Grows in bin when stirred up while reading. [8] ‘C’ attics hide plan of action.

[7] ‘Sign it, Eddie!’ Partially caught fire. [7] Usually 50Hz, repeated, at a thousand mA, looking good in the garden. [6] Rub up about fifty to make fuzzy. [4]

Solution to Crossword 368

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150, due to lose 500, given a hint. [4] Once oddly surrounding mixed grain is biotic. [7] Smiled, ending arrangement with determination. [6-6] Can aid or confuse, living on Orkney. [8] Swell, date about forty-nine.

[6] Muddled in game, I dream. [7]

THE WINNER of our JULY CROSSWORD

was Mr. Robert Sanders of Sherborne, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Hansons Fabrics & Crafts, Sturminster Newton.