The Visitor Magazine Issue 408 November 2017

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Issue 408 November 2017

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Inside this issue: Castle Cary Town Feature; Christmas Gift Guide; Festive Venues & Menus; A Glimpse of Glastonbury; plus all our regular features

Celebr a 34 YEA ting RS of T he V i sitor Photo: © Sergey Skleznev / Adobe Stock

In Passing...

M

ANY LONG-TERM residents of the Bruton area will remember Ken Dominey, their postman for the best part of half a century. Now aged 80, he is still very much alive and living in the town, and has just written a book of his memories of life in Bruton since being moved there as a toddler with his mother and brothers in 1940. Although he writes at length about his wife and children, he includes only a little about his childhood and his extended family, regretting that he has no photographs of the early years. In his introduction he says he hopes the book will encourage his children to value their family history more than he did in the past, but the book is about much more than just his family life.

His account of the post-war years is full of fascinating details, like Mrs Norris’s chip shop on Patwell Street and Mr Annett’s saddlery on the High Street, and his teenage jobs with a local builder and then at the bacon factory. In recounting his job as a postman, which he acquired after completing his National Service, he recalls the postmasters he served, the colleagues he worked with and the trials and tribulations of delivering the mail to outlying settlements and farms in all weathers.

He also describes the changes he has seen in the town centre over the years and many of the social and sporting activities that were an integral part of Bruton life.

And his anecdotes about local characters reveal its underlying humour.

Most history is written from the perspective of academics, researchers and the ‘privileged few’ in society and is about countries and their rulers, economies and wars. The history contained in Ken’s book comes from the memories of a person whose experiences have been largely excluded from history books in the past. At the end he writes that his life in Somerset ‘has made me neither rich nor famous but it has been enriched by the real sense of community I have enjoyed along the way,

sharing the sorrows and joys that define the human spirit’. How true that is for so many of us in Visitorland.

And how heartening it is that a growing number of our local communities now have what are often called oral history projects, established to collect the memories of older residents before they are lost. Some, like Castle Cary’s Living History Group, have published several excellent books of memories and photographs, while others are tape-recording people’s recollections and compiling them into resources for their local museums. Together they are creating a more authentic picture of the past from the perspective of the people who were actually living in it. People like Ken Dominey whose lovely little book, entitled ‘A Bruton Life’, is published by Ape or Eden Books and is available in paperback from Amazon, price £6.00.

NN.

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© The Visitor Ltd. 2017

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CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 50 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 25 BOOK REVIEW - 11 CASTLE CARY - 20

CHRISTMAS GIFTS - 15 CROSSWORD - 50

FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS - 26 GARDENING - 44

GLASTONBURY - 11

HOUSE & HOME - 36 LEISURE - 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.

LETTERS - 4

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 33 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 24

MUSIC for the MONTH - 31 NOTICE BOARD - 12 PAPERCHASE - 47

PHONE-A-FIRM - 48

PUBS - 30

THEY SAY - 32

WINE & DINE - 29

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR November 2017 3

Letters To the Editor Samaritans – just a bunch of do-gooders?

Sir, In the past, Samaritans did not talk openly about their volunteer work; in part, this was to retain a sense of anonymity.

In recent years however,

although many do prefer not to discuss their involvement, Samaritans are free to talk about what they do and the important role it plays, particularly when it comes to mental health.

It is disturbing to read that Taunton Deane has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country. Statistics from the Office for National Statistics show that between 2014 and 2016, a total of 42 people in the area took their own lives; 15 suicides for every 100,000 people living in Taunton

Deane, compared with the national average of 10 for every 100,000 people.

As the branch marketing and PR person for Taunton & Somerset Samaritans, I am aware that Samaritans as an organisation needs to ensure that people know who we are, what we do, where we are and why we do what we do.

I have been a Samaritan for almost 9 years, one of a local team of almost 100 who give their time to support those in need. It would be very difficult to pigeon-hole any of us, such is the diversity of my fellow volunteers. Some are as old as the hills, having been involved for decades; others are fresh faced youngsters just embarking on adulthood. It would be trite to say that we all ‘want to give something back’ and label us as a bunch of do-gooders. I decided to join my local branch because, having found out more

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about what Samaritans does, it seemed a no-brainer. Why, having had two members of my family commit suicide, would I not want to help prevent others having to go through the same thing?

I am involved in a number of voluntary organisations and know that as our lives become increasingly busy all of them struggle to recruit.

To get the word out, I meet up regularly with others from across the South West to exchange ideas, looking at ways that we can continue to reach out, if only to dispel the myth that Samaritans is just for those who are suicidal. This is not the case at all.

Samaritans is there to offer a confidential listening ear to anyone who needs someone to talk to about whatever it is that is troubling them; to explore their feelings without being judged.

This could be about health, work, family, personal relationships, school or college, money matters, addiction. The list in endless.

The burden of volunteering is not too onerous, just four shifts a month, the training is top notch and the people I work with are great. Whether I am on duty, giving a talk, or running a quiz to raise much needed funds, my involvement with Samaritans is the most satisfying thing that I do.

Whilst Samaritans may not be for everyone, we are indeed in your corner when the chips are down. Call Samaritans on the free phone number – 116 123, email – jo@samaritans.org or visit16 Wood Street,Taunton, Somerset TA1 1UN (9am – 9pm).

Linda Piggott-Vijeh Combe St. Nicholas Twitter: @LindaVijeh

Nipping out is not that easy

Sir, It’s a great asset in this day and age to own a bus pass, for pensioners etc. But on the west side of Yeovil we have very little choice of a decent bus service.

When Nippy Bus started up in Yeovil, operating from Martock, they were an excellent service, but in the last couple of years their service has very much declined, with buses failing to turn up without any warning, buses breaking down, and now the last bus from Yeovil town centre is 1.30pm. That’s on top of the numerous let downs, e.g. people left waiting for lost buses from the Bermuda Triangle to emerge. Are they gearing up for a takeover, or what?

Clive White Yeovil

THE VISITOR November 2017 5

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Dispatches

HFT Fair Famous For Quality Bargains

This year sees the 40th HFT Christmas Fair at Wincanton Memorial Hall on 18th November, 10am – 1.30pm. Entry is 50p.

The HFT charity works for the learning disabled and last year won an award for outstanding fund raising. Fair Chairman, Countess Carolyn de Salis, who has run all the Fairs from the first forty years ago aided by a dedicated band of hard working volunteers, says that everything on sale has been donated by wellwishers. The result is great bargains that offer wonderful quality over a wide range of stalls

from home-made goodies to gifts, treasures, jewellery, bags, second chance clothes, children’s items, plants, art, books, kitchen impedimenta, a tombola and refreshments, cakes and delicatessen.

A lucky raffle winner this year will go home with a beautiful patchwork quilt made and gifted

by Rosemary Rudolph of Galhampton. This heirloom is for a single bed and has been described by a patchwork specialist as ‘exquisitely high standard stitching’. An adapted traditional American Nine Patch pattern, the design is of amazing complexity. The subtle colours and patterns are in pure cotton and the completed quilt will not only be a beautiful heirloom but is also practical. It represents many, many hours of time and is worth several hundred pounds.

The Countess de Salis said: ‘We are deeply grateful to Mrs Rudolph for her generosity. The skill and artistry that has gone

40th HFT Charity Christmas Fair Wincanton Memorial Hall

Saturday 18th November, 10.00am – 1.30pm Entry 50p  Fantastic Bargains  Refreshments Available

This beautiful heirloom quilt was made and gifted by Rosemary Rudolph of Galhampton and is a raffle prize at the HFT Christmas Fair, Wincanton.

into this patchwork is exceptional.’

Other prizes include cash and an M&S voucher. Shoppers enjoy stocking up for Christmas, finding unexpected delights, meeting for a gossip over coffee, and browsing the incredible number of books on offer. Known for its wide variety of stalls, the HFT Christmas Fair is unmissable. See their website: www.hft.org.uk

October Festive Competition Winners

The winners of the free tickets to The Festive Gift Fair 2017 at NEC Birmingham are Victoria Freeman of Yeovil, Mark Cowan of Ilminster, Katy Tilley of Crewkerne and Amanda Roberts of Milborne Port. Congratulations, we hope you have wonderful time!

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Lantern Parade will light up Yeovil

Hand-made lanterns will be carried in a colourful procession around Yeovil, led by Samba-style drumming, on Saturday 18 November. Later the Christmas lights, with a new lighting scheme, will be switched on to complete the evening’s celebrations.

The town’s fourth annual lantern parade will assemble at the bandstand for judging of the lanterns at 5pm. The procession will start at 5.30pm and return to finish at the bandstand, with the lights switch-on following at 6.30pm.

You can start your lanternmaking now at home or go and join a free workshop, at Milford Community Hall, on Saturday 11 November. Family and friends will be welcome in groups of two to five people, all materials supplied for free, with hands-on advice about how to make your

ideas come to life, but book soon as places are limited.

The parade organisers have said that, for reasons of safety, there must be no live flames used in lanterns. There are lots of alternative options widely available, strings of battery operated lights are popular.

On the day of the parade there will be a Samba-style drumming workshop at 1.30pm – 4.00pm, at Vicarage Street Methodist Church in Yeovil. Participants will be able to create their own instruments and will be taught to play some catchy rhythms and will then lead the parade at 5.30pm.

Both workshops are free but please book your places by phone on 01935 462734 or email areasouth@southsomerset.gov.uk The Breeze FM will provide entertainment during the evening and you can find further details for the parade and other Christmas activities on the Love Yeovil Facebook page.

District Councillor Peter Gubbins, chairman of SSDC's Area South Committee, said: ‘Another great community night for Yeovil is coming up fast. Don’t miss out on this colourful and exuberant evening when our lanterns will light up the town

centre and we will all swing along to the sound of the Samba drumbeat. And for the first time this year we will be awarding cups for the three best lanterns.’

Late night Christmas shopping in Yeovil will start on Thursday 30th November.

Yeovil’s Lantern Parade and the Christmas light-up are organised through a partnership between South Somerset District Council (SSDC), Yeovil Town Council, the Love Yeovil Marketing Group, Quedam Shopping Centre and many more commercial and voluntary organisations in the town.

You can get involved with Yeovil town centre events, or get advice on organising your own event, by contacting Marie Ainsworth, email: marie. ainsworth@southsomerset.gov.uk or 01935 462787.

Find out more about how South Somerset District Council supports local areas by visiting www.southsomerset.gov.uk/ communities

‘Outstanding’ Strode College helps pupils make the right choice

Choosing what and where to study after GCSEs is an important decision that can affect

a young person’s future success.

Progressing from school to college is an exciting and positive next step. Strode College in Street, which has an outstanding rating from Ofsted for post-16 education and training, is the right choice for many young people with options including A Levels, Vocational Qualifications and Apprenticeships.

Strode students benefit from specialist teaching, support, facilities, educational and social activities tailored to meet the needs of 16 – 18 year olds. They make outstanding progress and gain excellent results to help them achieve their university and career ambitions.

Pupils who are in the final years of school and thinking about what to do next can find out more about college life and courses by visiting Strode College’s Open Evening on Thursday 16th November, 6.00pm – 8.30pm or try courses ahead of starting college next year by attending a Strode College Experience Day on Wednesday 22nd November or Wednesday 6th December.

To find out more and to register online visit: www.strodecollege.ac.uk or call 01458 844400.

THE VISITOR November 2017 7

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Dispatches

Longleat’s Festival of Light makes spectacular return

Longleat’s hugely successful Festival of Light will be brightening up even the darkest of wintry days when it makes a welcome return from November 5th (Daily from December 1st).

The Wiltshire estate was the first place in the UK to hold such an event back in 2014 and remains the biggest; with thousands of giant Chinese lanterns transforming the estate into a winter wonderland.

Drawing inspiration from tales new and old, this year’s festival will see visitors transported into a world of fantasy – a mythical land where mermaids swim in the lake, princesses live in castles, firebirds fly and dragons roar.

Wander through magical settings depicting famous scenes from Snow White, Rapunzel, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, The Snow Queen and Beauty and the Beast.

Displays will feature a giant

8 THE VISITOR November 2017

A truly magical experience – Longleat’s Festival of Light.

30 metre long floating galleon on the lake, fire dragons, the Ugly Duckling and the Little Mermaid.

All the lanterns have been created by a team of highlyskilled artists from Zigong in China’s Sichuan province, which has been staging lantern festivals for more than 2,000 years.

The giant enchanted animated musical Christmas Tree will be returning with its tale of festive

joy and the Santa Trains will be transporting visitors to Father Christmas’ wintry woodland home; where elves will welcome you into his grotto. Visitors can also experience a winter safari and the illuminated hedge maze.

Longleat House will be decorated for an authentic, grandiose Edwardian Christmas complete with live characters dotted throughout to make you

really feel like you have travelled back through time.

The Festival of Light at Longleat opens Fridays to Sundays from November 5th to 26th and daily from December 1st to January 3rd (excluding Christmas Day). For more information on the Festival of Light go to www.longleat. co.uk/whats-on/seasonal-events.

Advance booking is essential.

CASTLE HOUSE NURSING HOME We are pleased to announce we have been graded

This prestigious merit is awarded to only 0.6% of nursing homes nationally

The impressive new wing at Castle House.

One of the spacious bedrooms.

The large and airy new lounge.

The attractive dining room.

THE NEW WING at CASTLE HOUSE NURSING HOME is now complete and this impressive new addition has added an extra seventeen bedrooms and a large lounge.

The first thing you notice about the new extension is the attention to detail. The lounge is large and airy, with a vaulted ceiling and large windows offering views across the Somerset countryside. With comfortable seating and a flat screen TV – it offers a modern and welcoming environment in which to relax.

The bedrooms are spacious. Some of the rooms have patios that overlook the garden, the others have balconies which overlook fields – each accessed by its own french window. Fully furnished, there is also a flat screen TV, a rise and recline chair and an en-suite wet room.

For those who prefer to bathe rather than shower, new bathroom suites have just been added: these all have jacuzzi-style baths. And to ensure residents look their best there is a dedicated beauty room in the new wing, offering hairdressing and nail care.

The kitchens have also been completely refurbished. Quality food is paramount at Castle House with all meat being organic and locally sourced. Food is freshly prepared and there is always a good choice.

Meal times at Castle House are much anticipated. The attractive dining room together with good food make it a pleasurable experience and should you wish for a ‘tipple’ to accompany your meal, then that is on hand too! A real home-from-home. Family and friends are most welcome to stay for a meal, the only cost being a donation to St. Margaret’s Hospice.

Activities are greatly encouraged and there is always something going on – quizzes, craft demonstrations, exercise classes, drumming. Reminiscent Days are very popular when a topic, such as Old Fashioned Sweets, is discussed and residents reminisce about their childhood favourites and get to try them all again! Any forthcoming events are celebrated too, such as Children in Need, St. Patrick’s Day and the Queen’s Birthday. Local animal societies visit the home regularly bringing with them owls, reptiles and donkeys to name just a few!

Castle House Nursing Home already holds the Gold Standard Framework Award and an award for ‘Outstanding Care Team’.

There are always two fully trained nursing staff on duty and, with a total staff of 80, there is an excellent staff to resident ratio. Being a nursing home ensures that should the health of a resident deteriorate there is no need to move. Whilst resident care is excellent there is no regimented routine, it is a relaxed and friendly environment.

There are plenty of places for residents to chat with friends, alternatively there are quiet areas if they prefer.

‘One-to-one’ is given daily to residents, whether they want help to stroll in the garden, a letter written, or a trip to the shops, they have personal attention.

Set in its own attractive grounds, Castle House is a family run nursing home offering individual care facilities for 47 residents in a warm and welcoming environment.

Castle House Nursing Home has been nominated in the National Care Awards under the category of National Care Manager. Jo Marshall is the Care Manager at Castle House Nursing Home.  If you would like to know more or would like to arrange a visit please call 01458 223780 or call in person.

Respite and day care facilities are available.

CASTLE HOUSE NURSING HOME Ltd. Castle Street, Keinton Mandeville, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6DX Tel: 01458 223780 • Email: enquiries@castlehousenh.co.uk • www.castlehousenursinghome.com

CQC

Member of RCPA

THE VISITOR November 2017 9

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Mere Literary Festival Poetry Competition Results

The Mere Literary Festival reached its final day on Sunday 15th October with the Adjudication and Prize Giving for the Poetry Competition. This year, the Pennybank Writers of Mere, supporting Mere and District Link Scheme arranged the Competition and wish to thank all those who took part. It was agreed by all the judges that the standard was extremely high. There were 243 entries overall, 90 in the local section.

They were especially pleased to receive 128 junior entries.

It was wonderful that a few of the children were able to read their own winning poems at the Prize Giving Ceremony. Their sincere thanks go to all of the judges for their hard work choosing the winning poems. Of course, the Festival would not happen without Adrienne Howell and her hard working team, so congratulations

10 THE VISITOR November 2017

for another very successful year.

The results of all sections are as follows:- The winners of the Open Competition, judged by Dawn Gorman are:1st ‘Knowing is Believing’ by Jocelyn Simms of France; 2nd ‘The Ageing Mountain Climber Remembers How’ by Gill McEvoy of Chester; 3rd ‘Chapel of Rest’ by Michelle Diaz of Glastonbury.

Runners Up: ‘Jem Hobbs, Stonemason’ by Marilyn Francis of Radstock; ‘A Single Bead’ by Judith Drazin of Bristol and ‘First Britons’ by Paul Jeffcutt of Co. Down.

Because of the high quality of the entries there were three Adjudicator’s Prizes awarded to: ‘Conservation’ by Jocelyn Simms of France; ‘Canal Country’ by Philip Burton of Bacup, Lancashire and ‘Due’ by Paul Jeffcutt of Co. Down.

The winners in the Local Section (10 miles radius of Mere) judged

by Jenny Wilding are: 1st ‘The Hug’ by Peter Wright of Gillingham; 2nd ‘A Tale of Two Chairs’ by Robert Breach of East Melbury and 3rd ‘The Shell’ by Joanne Durham-Matthews of Wincanton. There was one Adjudicator’s prize awarded to Jacqueline Longley of Tisbury.

In the Junior Section for 12

years and under, judged by Angela McDonald the winners are: 1st ‘The River’ by Rory Wilson of Mere School. 2nd ‘Stourhead Poem’ by Charlie Barton also of Mere School. 3rd ‘Dogs’ by Elsie Bowen of St. George’s School, Bourton. The winner of the Grace Wines Memorial Prize for a junior living in Mere or attending Mere School was Ben Cassidy of Mere.

In the Poetry in the Grove Showcase Event for the 24 shortlisted entries, the winner of the audience vote was ‘Grandpa’

by Camilla Nelson of Mere. 2nd was ‘Old Hall Marshes’ by James Nash of Hinton St. George and in joint third place were ‘Chapel of Rest’ by Michelle Diaz and ‘A tale of Two Chairs’ by Robert Nash of East Melbury.

Somerset Wildlife Trust launches ‘Saving Somerset’s Bats’ Appeal

To support its on the ground efforts to secure the future of the county’s bats, Somerset Wildlife Trust is pleased to launch Saving Somerset’s Bats – an urgent appeal to raise £30,000 to strengthen habitats in three key areas in the county which support important bat populations - in particular several rarer species that we stand to lose in Somerset entirely unless action is taken now. The Trust is asking wildlife lovers across the county and beyond to swoop into action and help ensure Somerset remains a thriving stronghold for UK Bats.

Did you know … 16 out of the 17 breeding species of UK bat call Somerset home? Thanks to the diversity of habitats we have here in Somerset, we are able to offer safe homes to suit nearly every kind of bat currently found in the UK, as well as provide a rich variety of food sources. Changes in our land use over the past few decades however, such as urban development, more intensive agriculture and changes to farming practices have led to habitat loss, fragmentation and the destruction of roosts – all are having an impact on our bats.

Michele Bowe, Director of Conservation explains why it’s important that the public get behind our bats and support the appeal: ‘Because of their nocturnal nature and less than cuddly reputation, people don’t always realise that bats do have another role to play apart from being the focus of a Halloween party piece!

Bats are in fact great indicators of the state of our environment.

They are top predators of nocturnal insect life – making them experts at natural pest control – and they’re very sensitive

to changes in land use practices.

‘Bats rely on a good mix of habitats and healthy numbers of a range of insect species throughout the year. If certain bat species aren’t doing well, this may be because of changes in their preferred habitat or insect prey. As our natural environment continues to come under pressure, now is the time to ensure we do everything we can to make sure the remaining habitats we have are in the best health for bats. I hope that as well as raising essential funds, the campaign also lifts the lid on how much we need these special animals.’

Funds raised from the appeal will go towards three key areas: Mendip Reserves – we urgently need to secure the diminishing population of the Greater Horseshoe bat by managing species rich grassland habitats, grazed well by cattle and in some places, the extensive removal of scrub and bracken. Cattle grazing is critical as cattle dung attracts important food sources such as dung beetles – the larvae of which are particularly important for young bats that are making their first feeding flights. We also need to improve hedgerows, which act as linear route maps, to enable Greater Horseshoe bats to hunt for food and urgently need to repair Wadbury Bat House – a critical roost for Greater Horseshoes in this area.

In the Blackdown Hills - we need to conserve and enrich our woodland habitats for our woodland specialist bats such as the Noctule and Brown LongEared bat by regular coppicing work and maintaining rides and glades. The Blackdown Hills is also one of only six known roosting locations for Bechstein’s bats in the UK, so it’s of primary importance that we ensure the protection of dense, native ancient, deciduous woodland in this area, which best supports these special creatures which are also rather partial to woodpecker holes as a first choice for a summer roosting site!

Protecting our urban bat populations is just as crucial as those in more rural areas.

Somerset’s county town of Taunton plays host to significant populations of common species such as pipistrelles, but it also has a confirmed population of the Leisler’s bat, and also lesser seen species such as the Serotine bat.

For more information on the appeal, Somerset’s bats and to make a donation online please go to: www.somersetwildlife. org/savingsomersetsbats You can also make a donation by phone on 01823 652429.

Chasing The Rainbow, the story of road cycling’s world championships

by Giles Belbin.

Hardback. Published by Aurum Press 2017, £20

G. M. Ayres Tree Care and Garden Services All aspects of the gardening trade covered

Glastonbury based G.M. Ayres are fully qualified tree surgeons who also carry out a wealth of services such as landscaping, driveways / patios and paths (e.g. surfacing, paving and tarmacking) and, of course, garden maintenance. They are a family run business established in 1965 by Gary’s father and taken over by Gary in 1985. Sam, Gary’s son-in-law, joined the business in 2013. Their reputation is of paramount importance to them and therefore they do not contract in any outside labour: customers deal with G.M. Ayres staff only.

They are professional from start to finish, aiming to complete most quotations within 24 hours of an initial enquiry and striving to leave all completed contracts clean and tidy. They want customers to be left with the memory of the professional workmanship experienced, not to be left with the mess and untidiness that some companies leave behind. As a result of their customer focused approach, much of their work is for regular clients or comes via recommendation from their loyal customer base.

G. M. Ayres endeavour to provide such a high level of customer service that you need never search for another tree care or garden service provider again.

No job is too big or too small. Why not contact them today?

Glastonbury Post Office

Glastonbury Post Office is run by Gerald Cross together with one of his two sons and five other members of staff. Having run this busy Post Office for over sixteen years, Gerald and his staff are well known to their customers and offer a friendly and helpful service.

If you are planning a winter break don’t forget you can get your travel insurance, travellers cheques and currency from the Post Office.

Christmas is looming so remember to send your overseas parcels and cards off in plenty of time.

Edward Howells Associates Limited – Chartered Certified Accountants

Edward Howells Associates are based in Glastonbury but deal

with clients in the surrounding areas of Street, Wells and further afield.

They deal with a wide range of business types, from small tax repayment claims to the preparation and audit of accounts for companies. Their core business is dealing with family

businesses, whether they operate as a sole trader, partnership or limited company. They deal with basic compliance work of account preparations, tax, VAT returns and payroll, plus general business and tax planning matters. Do give them a call if you would like an informal, no obligation chat.

Northload Street: photo by Roger Richards.

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GILES BELBIN'S most recent book leads readers on a journey through the eventful and vibrant history of road cycling’s World Championships. From the birth of the road world championships in the late 1880s to its acceleration of popularity in the late 1940s, this book exposes how the chase for the infamous Rainbow Jersey is a familiar and essential practice in every cyclist’s career; wearing the jersey is the ultimate symbol of cycling triumph.

Throughout the book Belbin incorporates written interviews from past and present cycling heroes, these first-hand accounts enhance the rest of the book’s narrative which details some of the most important road cycling world championship races that have occurred over recent decades.

Belbin reveals that the launch of road cycling world championships has not been simple due to poor acknowledgement of competitive and professional cycling. The book explores road world championships’ initial struggle for international recognition and how cyclist personalities gradually helped to boost its popularity and legitimacy.

Belbin’s book discusses cycling champions’ unlikely paths to success, the breakthrough of women’s road racing and stories of deceit and betrayal among competitors. However, Belbin emphasises that despite differences in nationality, personality and ability, individuals taking part in the world championships find themselves united on the roads by a shared mastery of pedalling and a common passion for cycling.

It is a fascinating book, with gloss pictures, about a sport that demands perseverance, morality and comradeship from its champions. Giles Belbin is the author of two other cycling books; Mountain Kings and A Year in The Saddle. If you would like to discover more about his work you can visit aurumpress.co.uk for further information.

E.P.

Glastonbury

A glimpse of

STATIONERY • ACCOUNTS • STAMPS

BOOK REVIEW

GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • PENSION PAYMENTS

Edward Howells Associates Limited

CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Registered Auditors * Preparation of Accounts Personal & Corporate Taxation * VAT & Payroll Business & Limited Company Set-Ups Business Planning & Advice Registered Office: 20a High Street, Glastonbury Somerset BA6 9DU Tel: 01458 831700 * Fax: 01458 831189 Email: accounts@edwardhowells.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2017 11

November Notice Board HENSTRIDGE

Blackmore Vale U3A ‘Salvage Master’ Mr Patience will give a talk on his life as a Marine Salvage Master and Deep Sea Diver.

Henstridge Village Hall, Tuesday 7th November 2.30pm. Members £1.50, visitors £2.50. Refreshments included.

ILCHESTER

Christmas Craft Fair in aid of Children’s Hospice South West.

November 25th from 10am – 2pm at Ilchester Town Hall. All welcome.

LYDFORD-ON-FOSSE

Comedy and Curry Night @ 8pm Wednesday 1st November, Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse, 8pm – 11pm. Four comedians and compere Amy Howerska. Free curry and lots of laughs. Tickets £15 from the Cross Keys Inn, 01963 240473.

LYDFORD-ON-FOSSE

Acoustic Jamming Session. Come and join in! Wednesday 8th November, 8pm. Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse. 01963 240473.

Free entry. Every second Wednesday of the month.

LYDFORD-ON-FOSSE

Music – The Renegades @ 9pm.

Saturday 25th November. Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse, 01963 240473. Free entry.

LYDFORD-ON-FOSSE

Quiz Night @ 7pm, Sunday 26th November, Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse, 01963 240473.

YEOVIL

Yeovil Art Group is holding its Autumn Exhibition in Yeovil Library, from 13th to 25th November. Find our display of original paintings and greetings cards on the top floor (lift available). We will be happy to see you. Admission free.

ADVERTISE YOUR DECEMBER EVENT HERE

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 for 20 words.

Send details of What? When?

Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP. All entries to be pre-paid.

Extra words 30p each. Deadline for December issue, Friday 10th November.

12 THE VISITOR November 2017

Over the weekend of the 11th – 12th November, there will be a Model Railway Exhibition at King Arthur’s School, Wincanton.

Model Railway Exhibition, Wincanton

Over the weekend of the 11th – 12th November, there will be a Model Railway Exhibition at King Arthur’s School, Wincanton.

Opening at 10.00 with a 17.00 finish on Saturday and 16.00 on Sunday, there will be plenty of layouts and stands on site for the

enthusiast, occasional modeller or for entertaining the kids for a few hours.

Spread across two halls, 22 layouts are currently booked to attend, from all the popular gauges (N, OO, HO, O) and the layouts modelled on areas not just in the U.K. but from around the world (including America,

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

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 47

1. What did Adele want to set fire to?

2. Who once claimed he had 'A Kiss From a Rose' and went 'Crazy'?

3. Who is banging on about a 'Crybaby' at the moment?

4. 'Pump it Up' - a rocking song from Declan McManus.

We best know him as ... who?

5. 'Lovely Rita' appeared on which Beatles album?

6. 'The Kick Inside' was the first album by which female?

(Clue: Released 1978)

7. Name the duo behind the single 'King of Wishful Thinking' (Clue: Released 1992)

8. Lyric: 'I have squandered my resistance for a pocket full of mumbles, such are promises'.

9. 'You're the Best Thing About Me' a new single from which rockers?

10. 'Video Killed the Radio Star' a 1979 hit for Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes under what name?

Question Impossible Name the year in which Adele released this song (Q1) as a single.

Great Quotes in Music (96) “Hardly anyone bought the first Velvet Underground album, but those who did went on to form bands ” – BRIAN ENO (accredited) –

Switzerland and the trenches of France during World War I).

With these layouts, some use off the shelf items – track, building, rolling stock, etc., whilst others have ‘scratch built’ buildings and locomotives based on actual places and built to exacting detail.

Preservation stands attending include the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway, Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust and the local 2ft gauge Gartell Light Railway, which is based at Yenston, Somerset.

Six traders are supporting this event, so there’s no fear of not being able to find the item that you’re missing from new and second hand rolling stock, electronic components, model diecast cars and vehicles to match in with your railway and limited edition wagons. There will be catering facilities on site with cakes, tea, coffee and snacks.

Finally, there will be some live steam outside in the form of some 7.25" railway (TBC), where people can travel by train for a small charge.

Admission is: adults £5, concessions £4 and children (over 12) £2. All children MUST be accompanied. There will be 2 minutes’ silence both days at 11.00.

Shepton Slot Car Club wants you!

The recently-founded Shepton Slot Car Club is a fantastic opportunity to meet individuals from your local community and to try something new. Founder of the club, Graham Lane, has been racing since he was just seven years old and has competed in a variety of destinations in the UK and abroad, most recently in Italy, and has even endured a 24 hour slot car championship.

Graham is keen to convert his

passion for slot car racing into an inclusive sport for all the community as he welcomes members of all ages and abilities to his club.

Graham believes the club will make a positive impact in the local community as it offers an environment in which important life skills can be developed. With a growing proportion of under 25s opting for technology-orientated means of entertainment, the Shepton Slot Car Club allows youngsters to socialise directly with peers in a competitive but friendly setting. Further to this, the club promotes the development of social skills recruited in instances of winning and losing and even educates members about tyre grip and how differences in gear ratios affect car performance on and off the slot car track.

Your first evening at the Shepton Slot Car Club will be free and controllers and cars are provided for beginners.

Experienced drivers are invited to bring their own cars to have the opportunity to race among others of a similar category. The club promises exciting evenings of championships that will develop talent and create excellent standards of slot car racing. If you would like to get involved you can join Graham every Wednesday evening at the Shepton Mallet Leisure Centre from 7.30pm until 10pm. For more information visit the Shepton Slot Car Club Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ sheptonslotcarclub/.

E.P.

Graham, founder of Shepton Slot Car Club.

‘Finding Benny’ The debut novel from local author Bea Irish.

‘While her husband is fighting in the skies over Europe, Violet Johnson makes the decision to evacuate her daughter from London in the blitz to distant relatives in rural Somerset, little knowing that the family she entrusted with her safekeeping would send her daughter to a mental asylum following an epileptic seizure, where she would spend years waiting for her mother to come.

Fast forward to modern-day Somerset, where Paula Nicholls is a single mother raising a teenage son and a daughter who has Down’s Syndrome. On the morning of her daughter Suzi’s seventh birthday party, Paula receives a letter from a local solicitor informing her that she is the only surviving relative and sole beneficiary to a substantial inheritance from someone she didn’t know existed.

Searching through her late mother’s belongings, she discovers a box of diaries written by her grandmother Violet and discovers the skeletons in her family closet. She begins a journey into the past, determined to uncover the truth, however dark that might be.’

The story ranges from London in the 1940’s to modern-day Glastonbury, invoking powerful memories of the mental institutions of the time and the treatment of people who were ‘different’. Along the way, it also becomes a family story of love, support and life-long friendship.

Bea Irish lives in Wraxall with her husband Steve, several chickens and a big black cat. She has followed the old adage ‘write about what you know’, using her personal experiences and knowledge formed while working with people with a learning disability.

The novel is available from amazon.co.uk as an eBook or paperback. You can contact Bea via her website www.beairish.com or on facebook.

Somerset Wildlife Trust Upcoming Events

The World’s 52 Pheasant Species and Programmes to Conserve Them, Friday 27/10/2017, 19.30 – 21.00

For much of his life, local conservationist John Corder has been involved in reintroduction programmes for endangered species in Asia. He will discuss and show video about some of these programmes, particularly of the world’s most threatened pheasant species. Parish Hall, North Street, Ilminster TA19 0DG. Members £2.50 / Nonmembers £3 / Children and Students £1.

Apples and Anniversaries at Children’s Wood, Saturday 28/10/17, 11.00 – 15.00

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Children’s Wood Project where trees were planted on the site for each child born in Taunton Deane. To celebrate the anniversary SWT will be holding a family event in

Pheasant photographed

by Jim Higham.

the wood on October 28th. The event will include lots of family activities such as apple juicing, arts and crafts and apple head carving. There will also be an apple circus run by FUSE Performance where you can learn to juggle with apples, make and take home some juggling balls and have a go at circus tricks and

THE VISITOR November 2017 13

antics in a colourful bunting tent.

Light refreshments will be available on the day. Children’s Wood, Taunton, Just off Winckworth Way, TA1 1AN.

Solitary Bees and Wasps: Garden Pollinators and Predators, Wednesday 1/11/17, 19.30 – 21.30

Bryan Pinchen presents a talk about the important role that solitary bees and wasps play in our gardens, including their fascinating life cycles, ecology and provides ways to attract these beautiful insects to your garden.

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

A Wild Night Out with Chris Packham, Thursday 2/11/17, 19.30 – 22.30

Chris Packham goes wild with an entertaining and informative look at some of nature’s most popular and interesting species.

Illustrated with his superb photographs from around the world and UK, he explains the fascinating ecologies and behaviours of a range of creatures from Leopards to Barn Owls, Cheetahs to Pond Skaters, Polar Bears to Peregrines. This entertaining and informative evening is suitable for the 8s to 80s with time for questions at the end. Westlands, Westlands Close, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2DD. Band A £25 / Band B £23.

Booking essential.

British Spiders, Tuesday 7/11/17, 20.00 – 21.00

Francis Farr Cox talks about Britain’s fascinating variety of spiders, and their different biology and behaviours. Caryford Hall, Ansford, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Members £2.50 / Non-

Martock Gallery are stockists of Richard Thorn limited edition giclee prints.

Pictured: Autumn Walk. Edition size 195. Image size 66cm x 48cm. Mounted price £204.00.

members £3 / Children and Students £1.

Brown Trout and River Ecology, Tuesday 14/11/17, 19.30 – 21.30

Mike Blackmore of The Wild Trout Trust describes the key role of wild trout in freshwater conservation and river restoration in the UK. The Parish Rooms Market Square, Somerton TA11 7NB. Members £2.50 / Nonmembers £3 / Children and Students £1.

A Life in Imaging: It Can’t All Be Shot in the Field!

Friday 24/11/17, 19.30 – 21.00

David Spears will tell of the trials, tribulations & some of the laughs involved in making natural history and science programmes for the broadcasters.

This partly autobiographical presentation will include some incidents and experiences rarely

encountered by the layperson: from Cape Buffalo in South Africa to bacterial trains trundling around their culture dish in Chicago. Parish Hall, North Street, Ilminster TA19 0DG. Members £2.50 / Non-members £3 / Children and Students £1.

Wildlife in a Medieval Transylvanian Landscape, Tuesday 05/12/17 20:00–21:15

Bob Gibbons will talk about the beautifully unspoilt landscape and wildlife of Transylvania, and reflect on how Britain may well have looked similar before industrialisation. Caryford Hall, Ansford, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Members £2.50/ Non-members £3/Children & Students £1.

For information on how you can book any of these Somerset Wildlife Trust events, please visit www.somersetwildlife.org/events It is also advisable to check the website before going to an event,

Stockists of RICHARD THORN Limited Edition Giclee Prints

Musical Director: Peter Leech • Accompanist: Anita D’Attellis

Saturday 25th November at 7.30pm The Church of St. Mary the Virgin

GILLINGHAM

Tickets £12 (includes refreshments during the interval) Ticket Sales • Email: tickets@spectramusica.co.uk Tel: 01963 350160 ... or on the door www.spectramusica.co.uk • Charity No. 1114436

14 THE VISITOR November 2017

Pictured: ‘Autumn Gold’ Edition size: 195 Image size: 56 cms x 51.5 cms Mounted price: £238

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

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

just in case any details have changed or an event has had to be cancelled.

Spectra Musica in Gillingham

Spectra Musica is delighted to be appearing at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Gillingham on Saturday 25th November at 7.30pm. The concert, ‘Autumn Leaves’ will be the group’s first performance at the church under the direction of the experienced, internationally known musician Peter Leech, who brings such energy and enthusiasm to Spectra Musica.

The programme will include two works by Mozart – the Ave Verum Corpus and less well known Misericordias Domini which was written in less than a week for High Mass in Munich in 1775.

Also included is Jeremiah Clarke’s anthem Praise the Lord which was performed for the coronation of Queen Anne in April 1702. Many more composers will feature and it is hoped that some of the lighter pieces will bring a smile to your face. Concert pianist Anita D’Attellis will be accompanying the group and will feature throughout the evening.

Tickets are £12 from 01963 350160, on the door or at tickets@spectramusica.co.uk For more information go to www.spectramusica.co.uk

‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year’

So says Andy Williams, but what say you? Surely one of the most wonderful parts of this wonderful time is giving gifts to loved ones.

Tokens to show that we have listened as they’ve lusted after a certain something or expressed a need for something.

It’s always really nice to give something tailored: whether it be handmade or bespoke in design,

or something that is really going to make a difference to a person’s wellbeing.

Over the next few pages, we hope to inspire you with a taste of what some of the brilliant shops in the area have to offer. Like it or loathe it, Christmas is coming. It’s already November, so why not get cracking on your Christmas lists to make it more wonderful than ever before, for you and your kin.

Kate Macey Design at Living Pretty, Curry Rivel

Kate Macey Design is located in the snug at Living Pretty. From upholstery and bespoke lampshades and cushions to Grand Illusions vintage chalk paint, designer fabrics by the metre and fabric books to browse, this is a treasure trove sure to inspire your interior design aspirations.

If you’d like to change your interiors before the festive season, the design advice and bespoke soft furnishings available here are certain to help you to achieve a cosy, country vibe in your home.

There are also Christmas gift ideas galore, including beautiful jugs and mugs, picture frames and candles, lamps, rugs, mirrors, clocks and lambswool throws. If you’d like a pause from shopping, you won’t have to brave the weather for nourishment, as Living Pretty’s Tea Room has a very tempting menu. For a really pleasurable shopping experience in a warm and welcoming environment, this is an ideal choice.

Pictured: The Snug at Living Pretty, Curry Rivel, where you will find Kate Macey Design.

Bespoke soft furnishings you’re sure to fall in love with.

Behind Clouds, Somerton are stockists of stylish Tamaris footwear.

Perfect for day at the office, a shopping trip or even a night out, their boots make the ideal Christmas gift.

THE VISITOR November 2017 15

Wardon Hill Trading Post

Something wonderful has happened inside Wardon Hill Trading Post. On the 11th August the newly refurbished vintage inspired Emporium Tea Room opened under new management.

With the emphasis on homemade cakes and afternoon cream teas served on beautiful old fashioned china it will transport you back to a quieter more genteel time,

and stand you in good stead to explore the Emporium at your leisure.

With over 50 traders selling a variety of items from Antique Vintage Collectables and Craft all on one level and with plenty of free parking, there is easy access as well as something for everyone.

Fancy becoming a trader? There are a couple of spaces available to rent. If you would like to know

Antiques, Vintage, Collectables, Craft and so much more ...

OVER 50 TRADERS • TEAROOM PLENTY OF FREE PARKING

Open Tuesday – Saturday 9am – 5pm / Sunday 9am – 4pm

WARDON HILL TRADING POST A37 DORCHESTER – YEOVIL • DT2 9PW 01935 83069 / wardonhill@gmail.com / Facebook

16 THE VISITOR November 2017

more please call in and see what is available. Find them on the A37 midway between Dorchester & Yeovil, postcode DT2 9PW.

A gift to remember

Sometimes, it’s nice to have a gift that we can hold dear in our memories rather than hold in our hands. Perhaps a friend or family member doesn’t get the time to treat themselves, or is unlikely to spend money on doing something nice for themselves.

Perhaps you have long heard someone talking about their desire to try something out, but know they wouldn’t take the plunge themselves.

Gift vouchers for experience days or for beauty treatments can be an excellent choice in these instances, and if you go along together you could make it an event that you remember for years to come.

Give the gift of comfort!

Are you stuck for ideas for Christmas gifts? This year, why not give your loved ones the gift

of comfort.

At the top of our Christmas wish list are Cosyfeet’s Super-soft Bed Socks. Designed to keep the coldest feet warm, these snuggly socks are luxuriously soft and have a loose top for extra comfort.

We also love their cosy Gripped Socks. Available in Berry and Charcoal, they’re perfect for padding around the house or snuggling on the sofa. Other great stocking fillers include pampering rose and lavender products and high-quality handkerchiefs. They also have a fabulous range of cosy, extra roomy slippers that are specially designed for swollen feet.

The Cosyfeet shop is based at the Tanyard on Leigh Road in Street.

Regency Care & Mobility, Crewkerne

Regency Care & Mobility have lots of things you can give as gifts for making life easier! Even something small can make a big difference to our everyday lives, and Regency has an extensive

Regency Care & Mobility, Crewkerne have a wonderful range of living and mobility aids which would make wonderful Christmas gifts!

choice of gifts suitable for your friend or loved one sure to show you care. Whether mobility aids such as walking sticks or frames, gifts to aid comfort such as slippers and dressing devices, presents relating to health and leisure such as supports or exercisers, or items to help around the home such as reachers, page magnifiers and

multi-openers, there is sure to be something that will help someone find every day life more comfortable.

See advert on page 4.

Cards for Good Causes, Charity Christmas Card Shop pops up in Yeovil

Cards for Good Causes, the UK’s largest multi-charity Christmas

card organisation, has opened its pop-up shop just inside the door of St. John’s Church, Yeovil.

Staffed by volunteers, it sells Christmas Cards & Gifts for more than 35 national and local charities including St. Margaret’s Hospice and Clic Sargent.

The Christmas Cards are an important source of funding for charities, and help to raise awareness of their work. You can choose from an array of charity cards and Christmas essentials, including advent calendars, wrappings and stocking fillers.

This year’s local card is ‘Christmas at St John’s Church, Yeovil’ – taken by a local volunteer – and is available in packs of 5 or 10 cards from the shop.

In the past ten years, charities received more than £40 million from Cards for Good Causes representing at least 70p in every pound out of which charities had to pay for the production and distribution of their Cards and any VAT.

Pictured: Christmas at St John’s Church, Yeovil which is Cards for Good Causes local card for 2017.

Picture taken by a volunteer.

See advert for details.

THE VISITOR November 2017 17

Hansons Fabrics & Crafts, Sturminster Newton

Save £70 on the Janome QXL605 at Hansons Fabrics & Crafts, now only £429! This fully computerised machine is easy to use, has 60 stitch choices, 7 styles of auto 1-step buttonholes, an auto needle threader and an auto thread cutter

scissor button, Superior Feed System (SFS+) and a hard cover.

Buy NOW and get a FREE Quilting Kit & Extension Table, normally £129! Demonstrations are available and you can even try a machine out prior to purchase if you wish. Visit www.hansons fabrics.co.uk for more information.

Sewing and style go hand in hand at Hansons Fabrics & Crafts, Sturminster Newton. This Janome Model QXL605 is now only £429 and comes with a free quilting kit and extension table!

Street Cellular, Street

Street Cellular is one of the few independent mobile phone specialists left that are unbiased to which Network or mobile you have. Established for nearly 30 years, you can be sure that they have expert knowledge and experience.

In addition to selling a wide range of mobile phones, both new and used, they also offer a fast repair service for most models including iPhones, Samsung, Nokia, Motorola and many more + iPads and Galaxy Tabs.

Normally with mobiles they try and achieve a same day turnaround. Whatever the problem, from unlocking to liquid damage, they can help.

There is also a choice of new and pre-owned equipment to suit most budgets.

Careline – 24 hour help at the touch of a button

Worrying about being alone, or feeling at risk could be a thing of the past for elderly or vulnerable residents, thanks to the South

Somerset District Council-run Careline service.

Careline provides an emergency alarm pendant that can be worn at all times, which links to their control centre where specialist trained staff are on hand to answer calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Many elderly and vulnerable residents are already benefiting from the reassurance that help is at hand at the push of a button, and relatives can enjoy peace of mind.

Careline staff are fully trained to respond to calls from those in need, with experience in handling thousands of calls a year from a wide range of people including people who are elderly, frail, disabled, young or anyone feeling vulnerable. They support people being discharged from hospital or recovering hospital patients and those working or living in isolation. Their staff will call a doctor or an ambulance, the police or friends and family within seconds of pushing the Careline button.

Make someone’s Christmas this year ... by setting them up with Careline

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

Do you …    

Live alone or sometimes feel at risk?

Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents?

Worry about their safety in an emergency?

Want to help them maintain their independence?

Careline can provide help at the touch of button, 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.

For all NEW INSTALLATIONS booked before 31st January 2018 through this advertisement, we will WAIVE our INSTALLATION and SET-UP FEE! Please quote this advert when you contact us.

We will visit you in your home to demonstrate Careline; if you are happy with it, our staff will 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 / special Xmas offer 18 THE VISITOR November 2017

South Somerset Careline are also working in partnership with the Fire Service to provide free Home Fire Safety Visits and install free Careline-linked smoke detectors to all customers. If fire or smoke is detected, a call will be triggered automatically to the Careline control centre, who will summon help immediately.

They offer a free demonstration and, if you’re happy with it, their staff can fit the unit for you immediately.

To find out more on how Careline can help, contact 01935 479815 or visit www.careline southsomerset.co.uk

include Christmas wreaths to complement your festive decorations for a front door statement or any other room!

Stylish artificial arrangements are an alternative, created especially for each client and the

beauty of these is that they will last for years to come.

Reed & Russell can arrange to send flowers all over the UK and worldwide via their premium relay system, or deliver locally from their Wincanton premises.

Furthermore, why not take the hassle out of Christmas. Reed & Russell, in conjunction with Superplants, can arrange the rental of fully decorated premium grade fresh or artificial Christmas trees from 5ft to 15ft for your home or business.

Contact the team at Reed & Russell Flowers at 11 Church Street, Wincanton on 01963 32367 or Superplants on 01963 34842 for decorated tree enquiries.

Reed & Russell

When it comes to Christmas arrangements and fresh Christmas flowers, there is nothing quite like the wonderful displays created by the florists at Reed & Russell Flowers. Fresh arrangements created to meet your brief, using wonderful long lasting flowers and foliage.

Choose a traditional style or contemporary design. Why not

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

November is a time for remembrance: this beautiful poppy jewellery collection is perfect any time of year. Now available from Ward & Sibley of Yeovil. Prices start from around £16.

01963 32367

11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA

THE VISITOR November 2017 19

CASTLE CARY is a victim of its own success as a traditional market town that has transformed itself into a thriving 21st century retail centre. Nowadays the one big drawback is finding somewhere to leave the car.

Currently the two free car parks provide around 130 spaces and there are plenty of time-limited roadside spaces in the centre, but this is seldom enough. And the time limit on the roadside parking is far too short for a good browse round the shops and a leisurely lunch in one of the town’s excellent restaurants, cafés and pubs. But if you’re approaching the town from the south there is usually plenty of roadside space available on South Street, a good place from which to explore South Cary on a short and gentle stroll into the town centre.

Park in the vicinity of the Bay Tree public house, a convenient place for lunch perhaps although it is closed on Mondays. Thought to have been a beerhouse in the 1830s, it was rebuilt and opened as a pub in the 1850s and renamed The Alma after the Crimean War battle. In the last quarter of the 20th century it was renamed again, first as The Clarence and then The Countryman but reverted to its original name a few years ago.

The adjacent cottages still bear the name Alma.

The walk along South Street with its high pavements provides much of interest. As well as the rows of 18th and 19th century

In 1837, John Boyd started his horsehair weaving business in one of four tenements in what is now Chapel Yard House.

terraced cottages there are several attractive large houses.

Look out for the substantial brick and stone building on the left that was once Mackie’s Cheese Store.

A Scotsman, James Mackie came to Castle Cary in 1853 and started making cheese in the late 1850s and later factoring cheese for other local dairymen. His cheese store was built around 1900 on the site of a former horsehair factory, and is now in residential use. And Martin’s, the ‘purveyors of fine food and wine’ next to the George Hotel, was undoubtedly established in 1875 as stated on the shop fascia – but

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STUDIO 13 • THE TRIANGLE CASTLE CARY • BA7 7BD

 01963 359050 • studio13-online.co.uk

20 THE VISITOR November 2017

not there. It started here in South Cary and not until 1890 did it open a branch in the little shop next door to where it is now. In that year Kelly’s Directory lists Cornelius Martin, grocer, Market Place and South Cary.

Across the road is Chapel Yard where John Boyd started his horsehair weaving business.

Another Scotsman, he was born in Ayrshire in 1815, moved to Castle Cary and in 1837 set up looms for weaving horsehair in the cottage he rented in Golden Lion Yard. At that time it was called Golden Lion Yard from the name of the inn that had stood on the site of the Zion Chapel which opened in 1816. This later became a Congregational Church,

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd

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

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

which closed around 1980 and is now a private house. Boyd’s cottage was one of four tenements in what is nowadays Chapel Yard House but by 1851 his business had expanded and he bought part of the site of the old sheep market off Upper High Street, moved into Ochiltree House and behind it built a small factory.

South Street becomes Church Street where it curves to the right and slopes gently down towards the centre. On the right is the tiny Cleeve Cottage, thought to be the oldest house in the town, and a pair of cottages built in a Swiss style in 1881 as almshouses. On the left is the parish church, All Saints, which dates from the 15th century but was substantially rebuilt and enlarged in the mid-1850s. Its prominent tower and graceful steeple date from the rebuilding, but elements of the original church remain inside including the font, pulpit and much of the stonework of the arches and windows. The pretty cottage next to the church dates from the 17th century and is nowadays named The Old Rectory. It was much altered in Georgian and again in Victorian times and it is doubtful whether it ever was the rectory.

A few yards further brings you to one of Castle Cary’s most distinctive features, the horsepond at the bottom of Fore Street. In its centre is the town’s war memorial, erected in 1920, and nearby is a bronze sculpture of a swan, installed earlier in the current century to commemorate the black swans that settled on the pond in bygone days. The horsepond is all that remains of the moat that once surrounded a medieval manor house thought to have been built in the 13th century using stone from the dismantled castle, and its site included two mills, a dovecote, gardens and Park Pond, the

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source of the river Cary. The house was demolished in the early 1800s and Manor Farmhouse was built on the site.

The small estate of modern houses behind the horsepond occupies the former extensive farmyard and at the top of the drive alongside George’s fruit and vegetable shop the farmhouse still stands as a reminder of the historical importance of this site.

I’m writing this in early October. I’ve always sworn that I would never mention Christmas shopping until December but having just got home from my wander around Castle Cary I’m prepared to break my resolve this year. Cary is an ideal town to scour for gifts for any occasion – even Christmas! When buying gifts I look for those old-fashioned virtues – quality, originality and value for money – and those are what I found in abundance. I saw so many gift ideas that this article could end up as little more than a long list, and even then I would probably have failed to mention something special. The town’s many independent retailers, some of them long-established and traditional in the best sense of the word, offer attentive service and a wide choice of high quality goods at competitive prices. So take a close look at the advertisements and, better still, come and spend some hours browsing round the shops. And make your visit the opportunity to discover a little of the town’s long history.

Roger Richards.

The centrepiece of the horsepond at the bottom of bustling Fore Street is the town’s war memorial.

having the pleasure of hosting a selection of wonderful weddings throughout the year, they have been proud to be included in Somerset Art Weeks, with local artists exhibiting some of their most stunning works.

They were also lucky enough to be the back drop for Somerset Bee Keeping Association’s first Castle Cary based ‘Honey Show’ which caused a real ‘buzz’ in the town!

It won’t be long until their spectacular ‘Switch on Saturday’ and ‘Big Christmas’ events again. ‘Switch on Saturday’ on 2nd December starts from 10am with a coffee morning at the Market House. The festivities for Big Christmas begin on 7th December from 5.30pm.

Facial Reflexology now available at Heal and Sole Holistics

Heal and Sole Holistics in Castle Cary have expanded their range of reflexology treatments to include Facial Reflexology.

Their reflexologist, Julia Stevens, has been pursuing her goal of becoming a specialist in her field and has recently trained in Facial Reflexology, which works on the same principles as foot reflexology but with the treatment working the reflexes on your face instead. It is a noninvasive treatment based on the theory that reflexes on your face correspond with different areas of your body. Manipulating facial reflex points helps connect to the body's neuro-pathways to rebalance and revitalise the body

and mind. Most people find Facial Reflexology beneficial for deep relaxation as each treatment can release endorphins that promote and calm the mind, thus inducing a deep state of relaxation helping to relieve many of the symptoms of stress and fatigue and giving a feeling of overall wellbeing.

Heal and Sole Holistics are excited to be offering this new addition, as facial reflexology can also have a natural rejuvenating and uplifting effect to the tone and texture of the skin on the face.

Circulation and lymphatic drainage are stimulated during a treatment, helping to give a naturally glowing complexion.

For more information please contact them on 01963 350639 or visit their website www.heal andsole.co.uk

The Market House Castle Cary

This has been an exciting year for the Market House! As well as

DAVE MARSH HARDWARE LTD The really useful shop!

Garden – D.I.Y. – Plumbing & More

★ Key Cutting ★ Dulux Paint Mixing Services ★ Christmas Lights ★ Tree Stands

Suppliers and Fireside Accessories LOTS OF CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

Fore Street, Castle Cary •  01963 350316 Also Incorporating

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THE VISITOR November 2017 21

April’s

April’s of Castle Cary has been selling ladies fashions and accessories for the past four years with labels such as Purplish, Lily & Me and fashions Made in Italy.

April’s has a wonderful range of beautiful, patterned tunics in a variety of colours and in easy to wear styles alongside Neal’s Yard Remedies, bags, scarves, gloves and vintage greetings cards.

Now closing down, all of April’s stock must go! So this month, pop in and make sure you don’t miss

out on the fantastic items on offer.

Vintage greetings cards, including Christmas cards, are now half price, so it’s the perfect time to buy in preparation for the forthcoming festive season.

Now that she is retiring, April would like to say a big 'thank you' to all her customers for supporting her over the past four years. She has really enjoyed getting to know you all and wishes you all good things for the future. The Visitor also wishes April all the best in her retirement.

Pictured below left is a Purplish London 80% cotton freesize jumper. Looks great over leggings or jeans. Available in a range of designs and colours, from April’s Castle Cary.

Fabulous at forty!

Castle Cary storms its 40th anniversary with ‘best ever carnival’!

Castle Cary & Ansford’s Illuminated Carnival showed how a community can come together to put on a spectacular show. ‘This was the best carnival I can remember,’ said Carnival Society Chair, Di Pinnions. ‘To have entries of such a high standard from both local schools was tremendous. The Ansford Academy team put together an amazing entry ‘Ansford in Wonderland’ in four weeks and thoroughly deserved their success, winning among others the Spectator’s Choice cup.’

The evening raised close to £2,500 for local charitable causes.

Determined to celebrate its 40th anniversary in style, earlier in the year the Society bid for and was awarded an Arts Council England Lottery grant. ‘If Bridgwater can do it – so can we!’ said Entries and Judging

Secretary, Paul Burch. The grant meant the Committee could financially support the local schools’ entries, bring in some special carnival skills like costume expertise from one of the Notting Hill clubs, and pay for new, high quality procession entries that otherwise they couldn’t afford.

Another first for the Committee was to sell children’s carnival toys – keeping money out of unlicensed pedlar’s pockets. ‘It’s been a huge amount of work to organise, but brings in important source of additional revenue.’ said Dave Lawrence who spearheaded the initiative locally.

‘I’d like to personally thank the committee for rallying round for this very special celebration.

They have worked doubly hard this year to make sure the event on 14th October was the festival our towns deserved,’ enthused Carnival Society Chair, Di Pinnions. ‘Thank goodness all went smoothly and safely. We’re looking forward to a few well deserved weeks off before planning next year!’

For full Carnival results, and more about Castle Cary’s carnivals, see www.cacs.org.uk

Main stockists of all leading brands including: “Dedicated to excellence in Animal Care for over 100 Years”

24 Hour Emergency Service provided by our own staff CASTLE CARY 01963 350307

Fulford House, Torbay Road, Castle Cary, BA7 7DT

www.delawarevets.co.uk • info@delawarevets.co.uk

Contact us today!

Our prices are competitive and our staff friendly, helpful and knowledgeable Free delivery & installation

4 High Street Castle Cary, BA7 7AW

 01963 351110

www.abishopelectrical.co.uk email: bishopelectrical@btconnect.com

22 THE VISITOR November 2017

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

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

 01963 350568

Andrew Knight – Osteopath

Andrew runs general practices in Keinton Mandeville and Castle Cary offering Osteopathic Care to a wide range of age groups.

In Keinton Mandeville he also offers Applied Kinesiology assessments for gut health and allergy control offering lifestyle advice to help alleviate the allergy symptoms.

Recent training in the Cranial approach has added to the 30 years of experience in Osteopathic

practice and has begun to offer a varied style of treatment that can be discussed and explored in partnership with the patient to decide the best way forward in their individual case.

Andrew remains involved in Archery posture and dance safety which crosses professional life with leisure activities.

Andrew can be contacted by text, phone, email and via the website at www.andrewknight.co.uk

Needful Things of Castle Cary are decorating their store for Christmas for the 19th time!

This year will see a different range of displays to entertain and delight you. Fifteen core themes will be on show.

So whether your preference is snowy white or enchanted forest ... traditional reds, green and golds or crisp cool silver ... jewel tones or pastel shades, Needful Things have got it covered! Come and browse the magical displays and let this legendary store get you into the Christmas spirit.

If you want your Christmas decorations to be unique this

year, Needful Things is the only place you’ll need to be. Fairies, elves, santas and angels will welcome you at every turn!

Seasonal crackers and napkins, candles and scented reeds to dress your tables and unusual gifts to suit all budgets for him and for her. Don’t forget to check out their clothing department also, as it too has gift ideas to solve the most discerning friend or relative: scarves, purses, jewellery and even sheepskin slippers from Shepherds of Sweden! This season, put a visit to Needful Things at the top of your ‘to do’ list: they will give you a super welcome!

Castle Cary Post Office Cards, Stationery, Diaries, Calendars, Soft Toys Medici, Ling, Caspari, Woodmansterne, Noel Tatt and many more Christmas Cards & Boxes H Lamy Pens

The broad South Street is lined with attractive terraced cottages.

H Euros & Dollars on Site: all other currency next day H Passport Checking H Top-Ups H Bill Payment - Car Tax - Post Office Homephone - etc.

Bailey Hill, Castle Cary. Tel: (01963) 350237

THE VISITOR November 2017 23

MOTOR ING

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I START THIS MONTH with my photograph. It depicts club member Terry Scotchmer from Somerset preparing his 1927 Norton Model 18 prior to a recent local run. His machine is not in shiny concourse condition but has a lovely patinated look to it. The overhead valve machines made

by Norton around this period are first class. They are very fast by the standards of the day and still capable of being ridden good mileages today and well able to cope with modern traffic conditions. They are an ideal mount for the old bike runs we have these days.

It seems such a short time ago that I wrote about preparing our old vehicles for winter, but that time approaches once more. I ensure my bikes are clean and polished and I am lucky that my garage is nice and dry, so I need do little else. I am however convinced that except in the worst of weather our bikes are better preserved by riding them on a regular basis. Give them a good gallop to get them thoroughly warmed up and never put them away wet, otherwise just keep using them and get some enjoyment from them.

Although it is November there are still plenty of occasions to use those machines. The Somerset Section of the VMCC start their month with a guest speaker for their club night at Cossington on the 2nd. They next have the Guy Fawkes Run on the 5th. This starts from the Cheddar Garden Centre. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section just have their club night at East Stour on the 13th and there will be a guest speaker. The Dorset Section start the month with the Lunch Meet

● ● ● ● ● ●

at West Stour on the 1st. Next comes their club night on the 8th, this will be a talk about the SS Great Britain, and will be at Henstridge. On the 19th there will be a Winter Run which starts at the Orchard Park Garden Centre at Gillingham and lastly they return to West Stour on the 25th for the Breakfast Meet. Ring 01935 872528 for further details of any of these events.

The Dorset Section celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the formation of the Section in September. Around 100 members (past and present) and friends gathered for a very social evening at Henstridge Golf Centre. A lovely meal prepared by the Golf Centre added to the celebrations together with a special cake. Star attendee must be Sam Cox who is the sole remaining founder of our Section. He and two friends were members and travelled

Yeovil Auto Tuning H H

CLASSIC CAR REPAIRS Established Repairs and Servicing Specialists OVER MOT Testing – Classes IV, V and VII also Motorhomes 30 YEARS Engine Tuning ● Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes Competitive Rates ● Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW and Audi Group)

H COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE H

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

24 THE VISITOR November 2017

regularly to the Somerset meetings to take part in club life.

They soon got bored with this so decided to form a local Section within Dorset. Initially meetings were held at either one of their homes after which advertisements to gain extra members were made and then 24 members or potential members met at Broadmayne and things quickly grew from there. Now there are around 250 members in the Dorset area. From small acorns do big trees grow, and long may it continue.

You may well soon see in the press that the government are proposing further changes to the exemptions to having an MOT Test. At present any vehicle made before 1960 is exempt from the need for a Test certificate. The new proposal will exempt all vehicles over 40 years old, and this will be maintained each year by the rolling year method. This system has worked with the Vehicle Excise Duty exemption.

So as your vehicle reaches 40 years old you will no longer have to submit it to an MOT Test, and you will not need to pay excise duty (but you must continue to renew your excise duty with the DVLA even though it remains free). We have no implication date for these new rules but it is likely to be sometime next year, watch this space for more information.

I am sometimes fascinated by words having different meanings.

If I said I was driving an old banger you would know I was using a dilapidated old car. If I said I was frying a banger you would again know that a sausage was sizzling in the pan. If on the 5th November I was to let off a few bangers you would know I was talking about fireworks. So if you are partying on the 5th don't drive there on a firework, nor fry an old car or set off a sausage. Confusing it certainly is! Whatever happens have some fun, but do not blow up parliament in the process.

Rod Hann.

Yeovil Auto Tuning

Do you have a caravan - are you looking for storage? Yeovil Auto Tuning now have a sister company, Pen Mill Storage (adjoining their premises), who offer secure caravan storage.

The services offered by Yeovil Auto Tuning include repairs, servicing, engine tuning and MOT testing incorporating class IV, and Class VII light vans. A collection and delivery service is available.

They are also very pleased to offer repairs to classic cars!

Yeovil Auto Tuning is a family run business, established for 35 years. Proprietor Colin Frost runs the business with his wife Anita and their experienced mechanic, Jamie.

Find them on the Pen Mill Trading Estate where there is ample parking. Also operating from the same premises is Eclipse Custom Campers, converting VW Transporter T4 and T5 vehicles.

GLIDEROL GARAGE DOORS

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

G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414

This fine 4.7 x 3.6m Amritsar carpet from Punjab was part of the collection of George Moffatt MP and his descendants, owners of Goodrich Court in Herefordshire offered for sale at Lawrences in Crewkerne on October 13th.

Wall to wall bidding as Somerset Manor House’s carpets fly at auction

Some exceptional carpets from the collection of George Moffatt MP and his descendants, owners of Goodrich Court in Herefordshire, were offered for sale at Lawrences in Crewkerne on October 13th.

The house, now demolished, was described by Nikolaus Pevsner as a ‘fantastic and enormous castellated tower-bedecked house’ and was occupied until the Second World War when it was used as a school by evacuees from Essex.

A contemporary account records that ‘the house was furnished with amazing furniture and paintings (with) armour everywhere. I remember one boy got stuck inside a Jacobean helmet and had to be rescued by the headmaster’.

The items then passed by family descent and were most recently housed at Crowcombe Court, Somerset, from where a group was sold as part of the Somerset auctioneers’ autumn Fine Art sale. Highlights included a Feraghan rug from West Iran (£2370), a rare Isfahan silk souk rug (£5000) and a similar silk souf prayer rug (£9760). The top prices were paid for a fine Amritsar carpet from Punjab, 4.7 x 3.6m, that soared to £14000 (pictured) and a pair of Agra runners from North India that were bid eagerly to £20,700. ‘The combination of good provenance, fine quality, good condition and realistic estimates ensured that we had plenty of bids,’ commented

Lawrences’ Director, Neil Grenyer.

‘The results show that we can attract international bidders for lots that are so desirable: we had telephone bidders – some private, some trade – from Italy, Turkey and Iran, in addition to many London bidders. Not surprisingly, our vendors are delighted with the outcome.’

Lawrences sells rugs and carpets within its quarterly Fine Art sales in January, April, July and October. enquiries@lawrences.co.uk, www.lawrences.co.uk

An extraordinary collection of watch keys is to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne in their Collectors Sale on Friday 17th November. They will be sold in multiple lots with estimates from £50 to £500.

and a huge number of advertising examples. They are made of gold, silver, brass, ivory, bone and other materials.

Lawrences’ Auctioneer Simon Jones said, ‘This really is an amazing collection: the sheer variety and number of keys is quite staggering. There are many collectors of watch keys but we expect that the collection will also attract interest from jewellery

buyers and private bidders who will be attracted by their decorative allure.’

The keys would have cost just a pound or two in many cases but the collection will now be sold in multiple lots, with estimates ranging from £50 – £500. They will be included in Lawrences Collectors Sale on Friday 17th November.

The key to a successful auction

An extraordinary collection of watch keys is to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne.

They were collected by a gentleman in Scotland over many years and the selection includes hundreds of watch keys dating from the 18th Century to the 20th Century. Novelty examples include some in the form of pistols, a horse and rider, dogs, swans, horses’ hoofs, bellows, riding crops and many more.

There are also many 18th and 19th Century examples set with various hardstones and agates,

D’Oyly John oil on canvas. Market square, Nice, South of France.

Circa 1960. Available from Quillon House Antiques, Bruton.

Antiques Fairs

•

Chasty Cottage Antiques

•

Saturday 11th November Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1

Future Date: Saturday 16 th December  01963 370986 www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2017 25

Starters

Curried parsnip soup with Cajun walnuts, served with onion soda bread

Bruschetta topped with sweet chilli cream cheese, gin cured salmon and citrus salad Mushroom and blue cheese pâté with spiced pear chutney and toasted olive bread Slow roast belly pork sat on black pudding with a sticky ginger beer sauce

Main Courses

Festive Venues & Menus

Roast turkey with pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, chestnut & cranberry sausage meat stuffing, gravy and fresh vegetables Baked whole hassleback aubergine with beef tomatoes and mozzarella cheese, finished with fenugreek and sea salt, served with mint salad and new potatoes Roast chicken fillet wrapped in chorizo, served with red and yellow pepper sauce, new potatoes and fresh vegetables

Cod loin wrapped in Parma ham sat on a roasted cherry tomato and basil ragu with new potatoes Boozy beef and Guinness pie, topped with cheesy mash and served with fresh vegetables

Desserts

Christmas pudding with proper custard

Vanilla baked cheesecake served with a warm spiced toffee apple sauce and clotted cream vanilla ice cream Rich chocolate torte with blood orange sorbet

Trio of desserts ... Black Forest bread and butter pudding with a dark chocolate orange brûlée, finished with a shot of alcoholic trifle Cheese and biscuits with port, Somerset Brie, Dorset Blue Vinny and Wookey Hole cheddar Two Courses £19.50 • Three Courses £26

The Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane, Norton-Sub-Hamdon, Yeovil, Somerset TA14 6SP Telephone: 01935 881473

Aller • Langport TA10 0RA

Christmas Day 2017 Menu STARTERS

Smoked tomato & red pepper soup, roasted pine nuts & sour cream, served with crusty bread Shredded confit duck, pork and green onion rillettes served with toasted ciabatta and a Cointreau & star anise sauce Lemon sorbet amuse-bouche

MAINS

Roast West Country turkey, goose fat & thyme roast potatoes, bacon wrapped chipolata’s, honeyed parsnips, seasonal vegetables & gravy Cod loin wrapped in pancetta, dauphinoise potatoes, seasonal vegetables, grain mustard & dill cream Pearl barley & wild mushroom risotto, sauté beetroot, wilted kale, basil oil

SWEETS

Traditional Christmas pudding, brandy sauce, vanilla ice cream Cinnamon apple crumble, clotted cream, passionfruit syrup A selection of ice cream Petit fours and coffee

 3 courses £59.50 per person • (children under 10 £29.00)   2 courses £49.50 per person • (children under 10 £24.00) 

To include a cracker and a welcome drink of buck’s fizz or soft drink A discretionary 10% service charge will be added to your bill Takeaway available

 01458 250469 E: info@oldpoundinn.com www.oldpoundinn.com 26 THE VISITOR November 2017

Festive Venues & Menus

Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays in December Lunch & Supper available from 6th December 2017 Wild Mushroom, Thyme & Smoked Garlic Soup Severn & Wye Valley Smoked Salmon with pickled radish, pea shoots, horseradish crème fraiche and toasted sourdough

Roasted Beetroot, Fig, Walnut & Goats Cheese salad with a blackberry balsamic reduction

Duck Liver Parfait with toasted brioche and spiced grape chutney O O O O O O

Breast of Turkey wrapped in bacon with lemon and sage stuffing, pig in a blanket and turkey gravy Pheasant, Cider, Leek and Chestnut pie

Rib Eye Steak with red wine jus (£5 supplement per person) Monkfish with Proscuitto in a saffron cream and samphire

Red Lentil, Herb & Westcombe Cheddar Loaf with caramelised red onion jus All served with Firehouse roasties, roasted root vegetables, brussels and mulled wine & apple braised red cabbage O O O O O O

Passionfruit & Winter Berry Mess

Firehouse Christmas pudding with Ameretti Clotted Cream Rich Chocolate & Honeycomb Cheesecake with caramelised clementines West Country Cheese Board with Firehouse chutney, biscuits, grapes & celery O O O O O O

2 Courses, Coffee and Firehouse Festive Fours £28

3 Courses, Coffee and Firehouse Festive Fours £36

Pre-order and £10 per head deposit required • Tel: 01458 887447 Email: hello@thefirehousesomerset.co.uk • www.thefirehousesomerset.co.uk

Christmas Party Menu 1st – 23rd December 12noon – 9.30pm (except Sundays) Three Course £29.95 or ...

Two Course £24.95 includes crackers

£10 per person to secure booking is required at time of booking

 Friday Nights with Music  for parties up to 40 people

New Year’s Eve Party

Magical Themed Party with Magicians and DJ 7.30pm – 1.30am • Six Course Dinner Free taxi home within an 8 mile radius if booked by 30th November £75 per person 50% non refundable deposit at time of booking

Corton Denham, Sherborne, DT9 4LR www.thequeensarms.com Please call 01963 220317 to book Or email relax@thequeensarms.com TheQueensArmsPub

@queensarmspub

THE VISITOR November 2017 27

Festive Venues & Menus The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH

Christmas Party MENU now available (minimum 6 people) 4 Courses + Tea / Coffee ... only £19.95 per person Christmas Day  4 Courses including Carvery Main Course ... only £44.95 per person

Large Beer Gardens

Spaces are limited and booking is essential Please phone or email for your menu and booking details

01963 441531 • catashinnpub@gmail.com

Skittle Alley

Bar – Dining – Accommodation

Christmas Menu 2017

Available from Friday 1st December until Saturday 23rd December

TO S TA RT

Sweet potato and lentil soup with croutons and homemade bread

Crispy aromatic duck, cucumber, spring onion, mini pancakes and hoisin sauce Home cured beetroot, gin and pink peppercorn Mere trout gravadlax with a horseradish crème fraîche and rye bread Devilled mushrooms on toasted ciabatta MA INS

Traditional roast turkey with clementine stuffing and pigs in blankets Pan fried fillet of pork with spiced apple compote and a cider sauce

Sautéed strips of beef in a wholegrain mustard and whisky sauce with rice Local venison, red wine, thyme and chestnut casserole Smoked haddock rarebit with roasted tomatoes

Chestnut mushroom, Camelot blue cheese and port topped with puff pastry P U DD INGS

Traditional plum pudding with brandy sauce

Ginger and lemon lovely with brandy snap twirls topped with a christmas hat (a ‘lovely’ is a traditional Dorset pudding)

Festive Venues & Menus will appear in our

DECEMBER ISSUE

Published: Thursday 23rd November Deadline: Friday 10th November

New Year Celebrations ...

Burns Night ...

CHRISTMAS / JANUARY ISSUE

Pear poached in mulled wine with sorbet

Published: Thursday 14th December Deadline: Friday 1st December

Mini cheeseboard of west country cheese

Or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Cointreau and Belgian chocolate mousse with chocolate orange ice cream 2 courses £20.50  3 courses £25.50

£5 non refundable deposit required per person at time of booking

28 THE VISITOR November 2017

To book your advert in The Visitor

 01963 351256

Festive Venues & Menus

Plum Crazy

IT IS ONE of the joys, and the challenges, of living in a country where seasonal weather variations mean that when it comes to home grown produce it is always either feast or famine.

Recent weeks have seen home grown plums come onto the market with a flourish, and in such wonderful varieties, although my preference is for damsons, which are not quite so readily available commercially.

Having had our fill of plum crumbles, pies, puddings and jam it seems to me that now might be the time to put the remainder of the crop to good use by making damson gin or plum brandy; with Christmas hot on the horizon, if the merchandise in our shops is anything to go by, put into pretty bottles these will make great presents for friends and relatives that like a festive tipple or two.

Known as Slivovitz in Eastern European countries, plum brandy, usually made from damsons, is their staple liqueur, produced both commercially and privately.

It is really very simple to make and, as I prefer mine not too sweet, I have reduced the sugar content. It is great served chilled as an aperitif, and I also find that a drop or two in the bottom of a glass, topped up with bubbly, is just the job to get the festive season off with a swing. The fruit can be used afterwards but, be warned, it will be quite alcoholic.

I find that damsons work best but other varieties will do.

Whilst you will want to leave the fruit to macerate long enough for it to do its job in flavouring the brandy, it is better to strain it within a year, as after that it starts to deteriorate.

PLUM BRANDY Ingredients:

2lb ripe, but firm, plums 12oz caster or light brown sugar, whichever you prefer 1 bottle brandy (it is OK to use the cheapest you can find) 2 sticks cinnamon Peel of two oranges 1-2 drops of almond essence (optional) 2 x 1qt. Kilner jars

Method:

Wash the plums, discarding any that are bruised, and pierce all over with a skewer. The plums can be stoned but I find this unnecessary. Put the pierced

plums into the Kilner jars with the other ingredients, filling them to the top with the brandy.

Seal the jars and give them a good shake to dissolve the sugar.

Leave in a cool dark place for at least one month, giving them a shake whenever you think to do so. Strain and bottle, and you are ready to go.

If you feel too lazy to make your own then try Sklar Slivovitz from Poland, £24.56, 40%abv.

The Sklar family have been in the business for 6 generations and, unlike some other brands on the market, they use only natural ingredients.

Damson Gin is a liqueur that has been popular in Britain for centuries and can be made in much the same way as the Plum Brandy, above.

A variation can also be made very successfully with vodka.

Plums also lend themselves well to the making of wine and of the commercially available products available, Lyme Bay Winery Damson Wine is a mellow, off dry wine that's a traditional favourite. Light & well balanced its hint of pepper complements Indian or Chinese food nicely. Best served at a cool room temperature. £8.49, 11%abv.

Lanchester Damson Fruit Wine is light red in colour and dry in style and flavour. £13.99, 14.5%abv.

Luddenden Valley West Yorkshire is a medium red wine, with a deep purple colour, plummy overtones and lovely depth to the flavour. £10.95, 14.2%abv.

Looking further afield, Choya Plum Wine is produced to an original Japanese recipe by steeping green plums in shochu, which is typically distilled from barley or rice. The taste is pleasantly sweet, slightly floral and fruity. Perfect served chilled or as a plum wine spritzer. £11.39, 10%abv.

Edmond Briottet Crème de Prune (Plum Liqueur) is made with partially dried prunes and Mirabelle plums, which are macerated in alcohol, resulting in a rich, voluptuous liqueur. £19.84, 18%abv.

Prucia Plum Liqueur is another fascinating plum liqueur from France, made with Golden Japanese plums, macerated in grape spirit, and then matured in ex-Cognac casks. £26, 15%, abv.

LP-V.

THE VISITOR November 2017 29

The

Pub Pages

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

‘WHAT GOES UP, must come down’. A very old adage indeed.

When one looks at the incredible number of small breweries that have emerged in recent years it makes me wonder when we will reach ‘Peak Brewery’, followed by a decline in their numbers. Just as night follows day, it is bound to happen; a law put down many millennia ago by Mother Nature perhaps. Early in my drinking career there were a mere handful of small brewers – although I don't seem to recall them being referred to as Micro-brewers at that time. Now? There are in excess of 2,250 and more seem to appear day by day, and trademark names being registered rose to a staggering 1,983 in 2016. It's all thanks to the craft beer revolution, you see!

The great paradox is that there are fewer outlets for these beers, for in the period since I started visiting licensed premises we have lost well in excess of a third of all pubs. I think it would be foolish of anyone to put it down to any one factor. However, I'm tempted to Google a few internet sites to see what inflation has done to our beer prices. Assuming a pint to be about 50p in the year our Queen Celebrated 25 years on the throne (1977) then inflation would mean a pint should be in the region of £2.20.

Have I got that right? Your opinions are welcomed. Yes, there are establishments that sell a good pint for that price locally – and not just Wetherspoons.

However most places we can add a pound or so on top of that, unfortunately. To this factor we must add changing social habits and expectations that define what a good night out is – many pubs that are surviving now rely heavily on food, for instance. How many pubs do we know like this?

On top of this we must take into account that the three channels of television in 1977 have turned into 500 channels of ‘nothing to watch tonight, dear’. Eating out is much more prevalent as reported in a recent newspaper article, and consequently has ceased to be a ‘treat’, they state.

I would definitely agree with this.

‘Strawberries every day’ syndrome!

On the subject of ‘foodie’ pubs, last month we gave a brief mention of ‘The Ship’ at West

Stour with it's CAMRA Good Beer Guide listing (again) and menu of various gins. Our younger daughter and I dropped by for lunch and were most impressed by this historic former coaching inn, an appealing multi-room building with its extensive menu and friendly and helpful staff.

Landlord Gavin tells me that it is unashamedly a food-orientated business, yet the food being homecooked and with the attractive flag-stone bar areas it still has that ‘real pub’ feel, helped further by three changing real ales and up to six local ciders. There are pleasant views across the Blackmore Vale and at the rear there is a patio and garden. It was probably about thirty years since my last visit, and though no pub games are played (I forgive you Gavin – just!), nevertheless I can recommend a visit.

Another pub the Baxter crew visited this past month on a foodrelated visit is ‘The Carpenters Arms’ at Chilthorne Domer, which like so many other pubs has had its ups and downs.

Luckily it is well on the ‘up’ now, and is now owned by Butcombe Brewery. Their flagship ale is the only beer they have as a ‘real’ ale but on our visit it was well-kept and most enjoyable. Staff were friendly and were happy to chat about the ale (and other beers there) and we made a point of congratulating the young lady (Taylor) on the quality of the Butcombe Bitter and the food we had. It is quite an extensive pub now with what must have been

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

30 THE VISITOR November 2017

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

considerable rebuilding, from what I recall of times past (at the expense of the skittle alley, sadly). However there is a conservatory which is attractive and I would think overall the pub can get busy at times. Luckily the pub still welcomes locals and Taylor tells us they tend to congregate to the right hand of the bar which means it still has an area that gives that cosy local feel.

Speaking of local places, and the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for 2018, it is now available ‘from all good book shops etc.’ and of course via the CAMRA website.

Is there someone in your life who would like this fine publication?

The Season of Over-Indulgence looms (Grump, grump, grumpittygrump) so it's a worthwhile present, as is another of my favourite books – Played at the Pub by Arthur Taylor. I make no apology for yet another unashamed plug for this fine tome, and not just because I have met Arthur! My regular reader will know that I have referred to the contents of this book for many reasons, the most significant of which recently is the portion that stimulated us to make the game of ‘Loggats’ using six chair legs that were halted on their journey to the recycling centre, and a couple of ‘jacks’ made from some hardwood off-cuts. I challenge you, dear reader; yes, you, sat in your chair right there, to do the same. Believe me you will have a lot of fun, as we have proven.

What about the rules? Well, as none now actually exist, we are in the process of inventing some and consolidating them into something comprehensible.

Meanwhile just make them up as you go along – it's like playing bowls where one simply has to get nearest to the jack, but with sticks, (we play with the jacks about 7 yards apart). I'm in correspondence with Cathy Terry, Senior Curator of the Strangers Museum, Norwich, where the only known set of loggats in existence are kept. I'm delighted to say Cathy is keen to make more of the game in the public eye - could Norfolk become a hotbed of loggat-playing I wonder!

Furthermore I am delighted to say that the first International match has taken place at a pub renowned for its historic skittle connection, and in a hard-fought England v. Australia match the result was a resounding 3-0 to England – hurrah and huzzah! (I put it down to the English sangfroid, myself!) Would you like to know more about this game or even to challenge my

The

Pub Pages

contemporaries or myself? Pop me an email!

So as you head to your local tonight think about whether we have indeed reached ‘Peak Brewery’ yet. Me, I'm still trying to decide if we've reached ‘Peak Beard’!

P.A.Baxter. skittlealley@hotmail.com

watch as the award was collected

by Kate Macey on behalf of the team at The Firehouse!

Homemade, fresh food and interesting fine wines, local ciders and real ales can always be found on The Firehouse’s menu. They have also been included in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide 2018 as voted by Somerset’s CAMRA’s members; another fantastic achievement for the warm and cosy pub.

From mid-week roasts to

takeaway pizzas, a weekly Yummy Mummy Club, to Prosecco, Pizza and Puddings on Wednesdays, live music, quizzes and festive menus and New Year’s celebrations, The Firehouse has something for every taste.

Visit their website or Facebook page to keep up to date with their events and menus and to sign up to their newsletter. www.fire housesomerset.co.uk See their festive menu on page 27 for more details.

Vinny enjoys the fireworks at The Montague Inn on Sunday 5th November

Barrington Boar Traditional Village Freehouse and B&B

The Barrington Boar is a lovely pub in the heart of the picturesque and tranquil village of Barrington. Located just opposite the beautiful 13th century church of St. Mary the Virgin and just 400 yards from Barrington Court. The Boar has a far reaching reputation for serving fresh quality food prepared by their innovative kitchen team. They 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 have friends visiting you, The Boar’s 4 en-suite bed and breakfast rooms provide a great base for touring the area. Clean and comfortable, with flat screen TVs, free WIFI and tea and coffee making facilities, they are a home from home.

Visit www.barringtonboar. co.uk for further information.

The Firehouse, Curry Rivel

Taste of the West’s 2017 Dining Pub gold medal winner The Firehouse recently won the very prestigious Best Newcomer Award at the National Great British Pub Awards held at The Hilton Park Lane. The lengthy judging process included questions on marketing, advertising, staff training and management, Skype interviews and, after being whittled down to six finalists who were invited to attend the evening, the winner was announced on the night! A live feed set up to The Firehouse allowed the team and customers back at the pub to share in the excitement and

OCTOBER ...

Friday 27th

RAY JONES BAND – 8.30 ‘til late, Catash, North Cadbury

Friday 3rd

FOO FIGHTERS (Tribute Show) Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil FOLK NIGHT – Catash Inn, North Cadbury

NOVEMBER ...

Tuesday 7th

MUTTER SLATER – from around 9pm Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Friday 17th HELLS BELLS (AC/DC Tribute Show) Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Saturday 18th JUSTIN DAISH – Quarry Inn, Keinton Mandeville Friday 24th BOWIE FASHION (David Bowie Tribute Show) Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Friday 10th

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

The CATASH

INN

North Cadbury • BA22 7DH

FOLK NIGHT ...

First Tuesday of every month Next meeting 7th November • 7pm

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Saturday 25th November • 10am ‘til 4pm Raising money for CLIC SARGENT (helping kids with cancer) Pitches available • Please call or email for details r Large Bee Gardens

BEACH PARTY New Year’s Eve With Live Music from ‘Shockwaves’ • Free entry

 North Cadbury 01963 441531

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

“Something’s happening and it’s happening right now You’re too blind to see it Something’s happening and it’s happening right now Ain’t got time to wait”

FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink. Last month no one guessed that it was ‘One Night in Bangkok’ from the ABBA musical Chess.

Weather’s getting a bit rubbish now, wet and windy seems to be the norm at the moment. All the more reason to get down to your local pub and have a warm and a chat with all yer mates.

This month we had a couple of good parties up here at the top of the hill. Jenny King celebrated her 60th in style with a nice bit of grub a few drinks and a bunch of family and friends. Congratulations Jenny, X. We also had a young lady called Katy Burt come to The Quickie thinking she was on a date with her boyfriend only to find that her family had organised a surprise party to help her celebrate her 30th birthday. Great do, well done to you all!

Next month on the 10th we have Mutter Slater live in the bar: music starts around 9pm.

On the 17th we have HELLS BELLS with their AC/DC Tribute Show. Tickets are available from the pub at £10.

On Friday 24th we have a charity function, in aid of the St. Margaret’s Hospice, featuring a DAVID BOWIE tribute show called BOWIE FASHION. Tickets are £10 and half of the ticket price will be going to the hospice: they are available from the pub.

Don’t forget we have a Quiz every Sunday evening starting at 8 o’clock. We have some super prizes. Why not get a few mates together and come and show us how clever you are, or not as the case may be. You even get a prize for coming last here at The Quick!

Just so you know ... this year on New Year’s Eve we are having a Fancy Dress Disco Party themed on the 70s and 80s. Many of you will not have to dress up, but it should be a great night. Tickets are £15 and that includes a bit of supper. See you next month.  TOOT TOOT !!!

Skittle Alley

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

THE VISITOR November 2017 31

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

Sunday 5th November FIREWORKS Adults £5  Under 12s £ 3 BBQ available

Friday 10th November PAESCHENDALE COMMEMORATIVE DINNER 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 10 per head

Every Thursday SURF & TURF NIgHT Monday – Friday 2 COURSE LUNCH SPECIALS £10 per head

32 THE VISITOR November 2017

IN CASTLE CARY ... comfortable accommodation at The George Hotel ... friendly welcome at The Bay Tree, South Street ... dine in the attractive conservatory at The Orchard Inn, Galhampton where dogs are welcome in the bar ... make a note in your diary for the Craft Fair in aid of CLIC Sargent on 25th November at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury ... traditional ales served at The Camelot Pub, South Cadbury ... and Film Night at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham on Wednesday 15th November features War of the Planet of the Apes.

Shuffling on to Sherborne where you’ll always find well kept ales at The Digby Tap ... cosy dining at The Half Moon Inn ... a varied menu to suit all tastes at The Teddy Rowe ... Zakuski dishes to share are a delight at The Green ... Foo Fighters tribute show at The Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil on 3rd November a free gig so don’t miss it ... The Sense of an Ending is showing for Film Night at The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon on 14th November ... pub comfortfood served at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock ... you’ll find a traditional old-fashioned ambiance at The Dinnington Docks, Dinnington ... and always a warm and friendly welcome at The Barrington Boar, Barrington, near Ilminster.

Cruising on to Curry Rivel we find an interesting selection of craft ales at The Firehouse ... don’t forget Quiz Night on 19th November at The Old Pound Inn, Aller ... vegetarians are well catered for at The Quarry Inn, Keinton Mandeville ... if you fancy a late lunch on Sundays, food is available from noon until 5pm at The Natterjack, Evercreech ... enjoy real ales straight from the cask at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague, where a warm welcome is assured ... The Dolphin Hotel in Wincanton has been a popular place to stay since its coaching inn days of 1774 ... have you joined the Savers Card Scheme at The Hunters Lodge, Leigh Common (register online)? ... splendid breakfasts served at The White Lion Inn, Bourton when you take advantage of their B&B ... and Hot Fudge Banana Split sounds a very tasty dessert on the Christmas menu at The Grill House, Gillingham, where bookings are already being taken.

They Say

That Castle Cary Post Office has some flashy new handrails.

That there is no truth in the rumour that just because it’s a special birthday for North Cadbury’s ‘Hod’, he’s been invited to switch on the Christmas Lights in Castle Cary on 2nd December.

That the number of possible ways of playing the first four moves per side in a game of chess is 318,979,564,000.

That according to our Weymouth reporter, the ‘red sun phenomenom’ observed by many on Monday 16th October, was due to the enormity of Storm Ophelia – gathering smoke from fires in Portugal and picking up sand from the Sahara Desert.

That The Visitor’s They Say column is becoming ever more famous and funny.

That when his master has an evening out, and his mistress is relaxing in the bath, Tuggy Rundle of North Cadbury has been known to slip out without notice, a torchlight search found him walking back from the pub!

That Paul (I'm losing the plot) Sherrell of Castle Cary enjoys his favourite meal of liver and bacon WITHOUT the liver.

That in the absence of a dog, South Chard’s PMD likes to take pallets for a walk.

That a couple of weeks ago on Brownsea Island the red squirrels were pondering, who stole their show?

That after the first day of a twoday golfing trip with friends in Bournemouth, Mike ‘Pippo’ Pitman just likes to ‘phone home’ to check that they are still there with him.

That trick ‘elastic’ bands are still being used at the North Cadbury Pilates class – 3 bands and counting!

That after a recent trip, Chiselborough’s Delerin Gard needs to brush up on her navigation skills.

That Castle Cary residents will miss the services of Barclays Bank on its closure and particularly John Batt, who has been a stalwart of the branch for many years.

That arriving 24 hours earlier than expected left the handsome young lads of Lawrences Scaffolding in Yeovil without their coffee and biscuits.

Family Health with

Jenna Evans

Seasonal Super Supplements

As the cold rolls in, it’s time to give our bodies a boost. So from Astragalus to Zinc, here are some of my favourite winter helpers.

Astragalus – An important tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine and one of my favourite herbs! Astragalus is classed as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress.

Astragalus raises white blood cell counts and influences many areas of immunity. As an anti-viral, Astragalus is a great herb for treating the common cold, especially if you’re feeling generally worn out and fatigued.

B5 – Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid has been given the nick name the anti-stress vitamin. This is because it is a primary nutrient for nourishing the adrenal glands. These glands are part of the hormonal system and are responsible for producing, amongst other things, the corticosteroids – stress hormones.

Like most of the rest of the B complex, B5 is involved in energy production. This is the principle behind taking a B complex supplement if we are run down or stressed. Some companies produce a B complex that has a higher amount of B5 in it (for its adrenal support) for use specifically as a tonic at times like these. A B Complex coupled with an adaptogenic herb such as Rhodiola or Ashwagandha can work wonders during times of

physical, mental or emotional strain.

Beta Glucans – Specifically Beta 1,3 1,6 glucans. Found in mushrooms and the cell walls of yeasts, this family of beta glucans has a very interesting effect on our immune systems. When ingested the 1,3 1,6 glucans make their way through the stomach and on to our small intestines where special areas of lymphatic tissue known as Peyer’s patches take them in. Cells such as macrophages that are part of our immune system can be found in these tissues. Macrophages sweep about the body, ‘eating’ invaders, making them a very useful part of our defences. Macrophages actually have receptors or ports on them that allow these glucans to attach. Once present 1,3 1,6 glucans seem to have a strong immune priming effect, switching our macrophages onto a higher level of alert and making them more effective enemy scavengers.

So unlike many other herbs and supplements that would be considered immune ‘stimulating’ or possess specific and direct antibacterial or antiviral ability, these helpful fibres have an immune ‘modulating’ effect - they take what we have and supercharge it!

Elderberry – A veritable medicine chest all by itself - the leaves, flowers, berries and bark have all been used as medicines.

The elderberries are anti-viral, anti-catarrhal, anti-allergic and immune boosting. I have a bottle of Elderberry syrup on hand all through the winter. Firstly because I find it really can make a difference when I'm feeling under the weather and secondly, it actually tastes quite pleasant.

Useful when you’re dealing with those who are very fussy about the tastes of what they take – you know who you are! The flowers make a lovely tea for catarrh and fevers.

Gingko Biloba – As a support to peripheral circulation, Gingko can be helpful for those with poor circulation of the hands & feet, Raynauds and chilblains, often exacerbated by the cold weather.

Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie have many ideal gifts for the special female on your Christmas list, including handbags, jewellery, socks, scarves, nightwear and underwear and much more ...

Pictured is an outfit from Joseph Ribkoff.

The Dress Circle Dress Agency

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

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

For large quantities collections can be arranged

4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY  01458 273485

THE VISITOR November 2017 33

Ivy – an excellent remedy for coughs. Ivy acts as a mucolytic and anti-spasmodic agent relaxing spasms at the same time as encouraging the break down and expectoration of mucus from the lungs.

Olive Leaf – No doubt you’re familiar with the fruit of this plant but have you ever used the leaves as a medicine? Olive leaf is considered to be a potent antiviral, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitical and anti-fungal.

This makes Olive Leaf a prime remedy in the treatment of colds and ‘flu as well as herpes, shingles, ear infections, urinary tract infections and fungal infections such as candida. Much like olives themselves, the leaf has demonstrated cardioprotective effects such as dilation of the arteries, lowering blood pressure and inhibiting the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. If you suffer from chronic infections I would certainly recommend this herb as its effects are broad yet potent.

Zinc – Zinc is involved in almost all aspects of immunity including white blood cell

Emma Howe

Clairvoyant Psychic • Established 25 years • National Press Recommended • Spiritual Counselling • Spiritual answers to worldly problems • Astrology • Home visits available

01458 251951

production and thymus (master immune system gland) function.

The thymus gland produces a hormone called thymulin. Zinc has been used to boost levels of this hormone which can be useful to all people but is especially beneficial to the elderly as levels of thymulin tend to decline with age. Zinc also possesses a direct anti-viral action which accounts for its popularity in lozenge form for targeting common colds and sore throats.

Jenna Evans ©2017  Ceres Natural Foods are having ‘Seasonal Survival’ months in-store during November & December. 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 multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.

Find Your Fit at Oomph and Lift!

Every woman deserves to feel amazing and wearing that beautifully fitted bra is the foundation of feeling fabulous!

Studies have revealed that many women have never had a professionally fitted bra and have resorted to wearing undies that are uncomfortable and ill-fitting.

In light of this, it is the mission of Panache to transform the way women think about their underwear as they launch their ‘Find Your Fit’ campaign. As your local Panache expert fitter, Oomph and Lift welcome you to their shop in Street to help you Find Your Fit and get you feeling great! 10am – 4pm, 24th November.

and

Lingerie PROFESSIONAL FITTING SERVICE HOSIERY * SWIMWEAR

Vestry Court, Vestry Road, STREET

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

34 THE VISITOR November 2017

This stunning Failsworth hat is just £59 from Preview, Wincanton.

Available in navy, purple, light brown and teal, this is a gorgeous winter hat perfect for racing or anything that gets you outdoors during the colder months.

Three Counties Foot Care

Anna Rhys of Three Counties Foot Care is a qualified foot health practitioner with the SMAE institute and also has a diploma in foot care.

Living in South Somerset with her husband and two teenage children, Anna has been a qualified nurse since 1989 and has worked in a number of specialities including; intensive care, medical and surgical nursing.

For the last ten years Anna has worked in the community, both as a community nurse and a practice nurse. It is during this time that her interest in feet started.

Covering a 25 mile radius from her home in Charlton Mackrell, Anna looks forward to meeting you and caring for both you and your feet.

Pantene 3 Minute Miracle Review

Do you struggle to find a conditioner that suits your hair?

It’s so difficult to know what is right for you just by reading a label on a bottle or tube, and buying a whole packet ‘just in case it might be’ can sometimes seem like quite a big gamble.

Well, if you’re interested to know what Pantene’s 3 Minute Miracle is like, read on, as we have tried it out for you. Here’s what our reviewer has to say about it ...

Three Counties Foot Care Mrs Anna Rhys Dip FH, MCFHP, MAFHP, RGN Foot Health Practitioner & Registered Nurse

07811 612957 anna.rhys@yahoo.co.uk TREATMENTS AVAILABLE

Foot health advice • Nail cutting • Care of the high risk and diabetic foot Foot wound dressing • Corns & calluses • Long thickened or ingrowing nails Fungal nails / athletes foot • Cracked heels or hard dry skin Verruca treatment • Wound dressings / medical referral and liason

‘Initially, I was sceptical about using Pantene's 3 Minute Miracle product because my hair is very fine and prone to lack volume. I tend to avoid using conditioner because I don’t want a heavy product to flatten my hair’s natural bounce. Despite this, after using Pantene's conditioner I noticed a positive difference in my hair’s appearance.

‘The conditioner acts as a hair mask as users are instructed to leave the conditioner to soak in damp hair for roughly three minutes after shampooing. After rinsing, my hair was noticeably more shiny and silky in texture.

It looked brighter and a lot healthier, on top of this I was surprised to find that my hair had retained its natural waves.

I would certainly recommend Pantene's 3 Minute Miracle to be used as part of a daily routine, especially to individuals with frizzy or dry hair types.’

Available at stores nationwide.

Amour Lingerie, Wincanton

Full figured women can enjoy total fit and support in a range of sophisticated looks with Elomi lingerie. Featuring specially designed underwires and soft cup styles in sizes 32 to 48, DD through to K cup, sheer elegance and total comfort go hand-inhand with this gorgeous brand available at Amour, Wincanton.

In fact, whatever your body shape or size, Amour Lingerie will have underwear to make you feel fabulous. Other labels stocked include Fantasie, Marie

Elomi lingerie is available from Amour in Wincanton.

Pictured is the Matilda plunge bra and brief in purple.

Jo, Wacoal, Freya, PrimaDonna and Mimi Holliday.

Amour have stunning, silky nightwear and beautiful perfumes alongside bras and briefs in an array of colours and styles.

Shopping in store means that you can get expert advice on size and fit from their friendly team.

Visit Amour at 7 Market Place, Wincanton to discover their enchanting collection.

Skirts have arrived at Preview, Wincanton!

Preview are delighted to be stocking calf-length, wool mix skirts from Q’Neel. These 8-panel skirts are simply stunning!

Available in purple, teal, bottlegreen and grey, these skirts are versatile and flattering. Proving very popular, they are the perfect addition to any wardrobe to take you through autumn and winter. £95 each.

Robell’s needle cord trousers are so comfortable that you’ll feel great all day when wearing them.

Available in burgundy, navy, taupe and teal, these look great with flats or heels, ankle boots or ballet shoes. Another perfect winter piece to keep you feeling warm while offering the perfect fit. £59 each.

When you visit Preview you’ll also find hats, scarves, shoes and jewellery in a range of colours and styles, and plenty of Christmas gift options. From Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew room diffusers in several scents to Doris and Dude bamboo fabric gents’ socks and beautiful scarves

from Tilley and Grace, there is sure to be something perfect for your friends or relatives.

The ranges available at Preview will ensure you look chic and feel comfortable from day to

night and you can pick up something lovely for your friends and family too.

Open 10am – 5pm, Monday – Saturday. Market Place, Wincanton.

Fashion Boutique Wincanton

Stockists of ...

Joseph Ribkoff Just White Shirts

Robell

Frank Walder

Zenia

Market Place • Wincanton •  01963 31676 www.previewwincanton.co.uk

Exciting New Season Collection Now Arriving

THE VISITOR November 2017 35

MMS Soft Furnishings

MMS Soft Furnishings, formerly of Wincanton, are a wellestablished business with 20 years’ experience in curtain making! They have recently

moved to new premises at Woodside Court, Sparkford. Why not pay them a visit and browse in their showroom and workshop?

They have an extensive range of fabrics from Clarke & Clarke,

A snapshot of MMS Soft Furnishings’ workshop and showroom

Prestigious Textiles, iLiv, Fibre Naturelle and more … or if you already have a fabric you love you can supply your own for them to work with!

Services include bespoke curtains, blinds and cushions, and they have a range of linings and ribbons in stock as well as various other haberdashery and poles and tracks available to order.

Open Monday – Thursday 9:30am – 2pm or at other times by appointment. Contact Melody on 07883 089333 or via email at salesmmssoftfurnishings @aol.co.uk

Renovate or expand on your building project ideas with free tickets to The South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show at The Bath & West Showground, Somerset, 18-19 November.

According to the Self & Custom Build Market Report 2017, the largest of its kind in the UK, the South-West region accounts for 14 per cent of all self-build projects, which is the third highest figure after Scotland and the South-East of England. In light of this significant demand, Somerset is readying itself for the return of The South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show at The Bath & West Showground from 18-19 November 2017. Sponsored by Idealcombi, the Danish contemporary window company, the event will gather under one roof all the expertise, products and resources required to

complete a successful project.

Throughout the show, a wide range of topics from extensions; conversions; home DIY; planning permission; interiors; lighting; doors; windows; renewable technologies; heating systems; project insurance; energy efficiency; home insurance; building regulations and more will be covered at the 20+, masterclasses and 8 daily seminars, which will cater or all needs.

A key opportunity for visitors is a stop at The Advice Centre, where they will receive one-onone recommendations for their projects. This guidance will prove to be very useful to those who want to become more involved with their plans and learn how to avoid mishaps during the implementation stage thanks to clear guidance.

In this section, the experts from the popular Ask the Builder features will be present again this year to provide free 15-minute consultations. Ask the Builder, hosted by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), will offer reliable and trustworthy advice on various projects around the home.

In addition, at the Ask an Architect area, chartered architectural specialists from RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) will be present for free advice and support over one-onone consultations. They will be covering tips on how to tackle structural engineer calculations, internal alterations and innovative project designs.

Sally Tagg and her team will also be on hand at The Planning Clinic this year for an abundance of information about new

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36 THE VISITOR November 2017

Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344

planning regulations and laws, providing different methods visitors can use to enable a smooth process, tailored to their requirements.

In addition, Potton, a company renowned for building sustainable timber homes, will be based at its Design Lounge to provide directions to people who want to make most use of this material when building or renovating their property.

Regular columnists from Homebuilding & Renovating magazine will run individual 15minute consultations at the Ask the Experts zone: Michael Holmes (director of content and product development for Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Jason Orme (editorial director of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine; Tim Pullen (eco-expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Bob Branscombe (building expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine) and Chris Reeves (Homebuilding & Renovating magazine’s legal expert and chartered builder and lawyer).

Visitor readers have exclusive access to free tickets for the show at www.homebuildingshow. co.uk/thevisitor. Please note that tickets must be redeemed before 3pm on 17th November 2017.

Additional T&Cs apply: www. homebuildingshow.co.uk/terms

Sandpits Heating and Home Store, Curry Rivel

Sandpits Heating Centre has long been known for supplying and installing multi-fuel stoves and cookers, but you may not know that they do so much more than that. Their cosy showrooms are truly inviting, allowing you to explore a range of appliances, many in operation.

The working stoves make autumn and winter visits a real pleasure as you can forget the

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chill of the outside air. The helpful and friendly team at Sandpits will be pleased to answer any questions you have and to advise you on the stove or fire that will best suit your requirements. Sellers of kiln dried logs and DIY items, Sandpits also offer chimney sweeping as a professional in house service with APICS registered sweeps, full servicing and maintenance to wood / multifuel stoves, fit liners and cowls and give chimney camera inspections.

A huge range of accessories such as ecofans, log baskets, coal buckets and bellows awaits you and they have a range of items which could easily be the perfect Christmas gift. Together with Living Pretty and Kate Macey Design, Sandpits have virtually everything for your hearth and home under one roof.

Improve air quality, check what you burn

If you have a stove or fireplace then make sure you choose dry or seasoned firewood.

Unseasoned firewood gives off more smoke, which harms air quality, as well as less heat.

Seasoned logs are better for your appliance, chimney and fuel bills.

Consumers should look for ‘Ready to Burn’ labels which shows logs are ready for use and contain less than 20 per cent moisture.

These logs burn more efficiently than unseasoned green wood and reduce environmental impact.

Councillor John Russell, Environmental Protection and

Sandpits Heating & Home Store have virtually everything for your hearth and home under one roof.

Assets Portfolio holder, at West Dorset District Council, said: ‘Burning the right fuel helps the environment, but it also helps residents reduce their fuel bills as well as breath cleaner air.

‘It is staggering to think that an unseasoned two kilogram log with 50 per cent moisture is half water, so is one litre water, which means it is less efficient to burn.’

West Dorset District Council has declared two Air Quality Management Areas, one is in Chideock near the A35 and the other in High East Street, Dorchester. This means action plans have been drawn up to try and improve air quality.

Many homes and businesses across West Dorset are off the mains gas grid. More information

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Kitchens • Libraries • Studies • Bedrooms • Architectural Joinery THE VISITOR November 2017 37

about air quality is available at dorsetforyou.gov.uk/airquality/west More information about the ‘Ready to Burn’ scheme which is backed by DEFRA is available at www.readytoburn.org

Pictured right: ‘Tinkabee’ kitchen by Somerset based Eternal Kitchens.

More information can be found on their website www.eternalkitchens.co.uk.

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38 THE VISITOR November 2017

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

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

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.

SJH Carpets have a wonderful selection of fabrics, carpets and flooring.

Find that foil – and recycle it with your cans

Somerset residents are being urged to make a new effort to recycle light but valuable aluminium foil rather than let it go to waste in their rubbish bins.

And to make recycling easier, all aluminium foil can now be scrunched together in a ball for recycling in the same box – usually the black one – as families’ aluminium and steel food and drink cans, rather than the green box used for paper and glass.

Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) wants to collect all aluminium foil, such as from takeaway containers, trays from festive mince pies, lids from some food packaging, and clean aluminium wrapping from Christmas turkeys and other cooking.

SWP’s advice is clear: at the

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end of your washing-up, rinse foil used for food to remove the worse of any contamination, scrunch it all together so it will not blow away, and leave with other materials so it can be easily spotted by the collection crew.

But SWP says it does not want metallised plastic-foil packaging items, such as pet food pouches, crisp packets, and children’s yoghurt-based drinks, as these cannot be recycled and will contaminate the metal recycling process.

To check if an item is metallised plastic or aluminium foil, do the scrunch test: if it springs back, it is metallised plastic and cannot be recycled. But if it stays scrunched, it is aluminium foil and should be recycled in your black recycling box.

Matching the collection box switch, handling behind the scenes a t wa st e d ep ot s ha s changed, which means that aluminium foil products can now be recycled alongside food and drink cans.

Firms that recycle foil or use the recycled metal say recycling saves around 95% of the energy needed to make the metal from mined ore. Aluminium – foil or cans - can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality, so recycling every scrap of it is a great way to help the environment.

Householders seeking advice about kerbside collections, the network of recycling sites or for waste prevention ideas, should visit www.somersetwaste.gov.uk.

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Get this 4ft 6in grey bed, headboard and super soft quilted mattress all for just £459.99 at Fit & Furnish, Yeovil, during November!

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ranges are available in a range of Farrow & Ball colours. See their advert inside front cover for a picture of the Weston bedside table in downpipe grey and Alder Tops! And if you’re looking for a bed, look no further. Currently on offer at Fit & Furnish is the textured charcoal damask bed which has white drawers with chrome corners and chrome glides. Fit & Furnish’s set price

for this grey storage bed, headboard, super soft quilted is the best way to buy. Throughout November, 4ft 6” is priced at £459.99, 5ft is priced at £489.99 and 6ft is priced at £529.99! This is a great offer: the base price alone is almost as much as the price for base, headboard and mattress! The 29cm deep mattress is a Sleepzone® springs mattress with traditionally tufted

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damask pillow-top for superlative support. Vertical damask border, multiple fillings, 2 vents and 4 handles. No turn, rotate regularly.

Storage options are side opening ottoman, front opening ottoman, half front opening ottoman. The bed pictured is shown with Opera headboard.

Prices may vary for different base and colour options. Please visit their website www.fitand furnish.co.uk for full stock information. For contact information and to find out more, see their advert inside front cover!

Top Tips for Seasonal Interiors Styling – Dining in Style

Professional home interiors stylist, Clare Southcombe-Holmes – founder of Scandi designer outlet No64 Biscuit House – has some great tips for entertaining at home ... how to make your dinner table look classically stylish not cluttered.

Create a centrepiece with candles to match the season with

rich oranges, surround them with a bed of green moss (easy to get from the garden or florists), mix different size candles with different heights, colours and shapes. Try placing them on a rustic iron tray, a piece of slate or a piece of wood (if going for the wood option, sit the candles in individual dishes so they don’t fall over).

Make a display of succulents planted in a rustic box, a shallow edged tray or upcycled / vintage tin tray or box. Plant the succulents leaving space for white candles of varying heights in the centre of the pot. Fill the gaps in between the plants with moss for the finishing touch.

Cut a long piece of natural linen and place it down the centre of the table (if the table is a rectangle). Put a good number of collected glass jars in different heights, patterns and shapes on the table, grouping them together in the middle of the table. Add a single flower or piece of greenery to each one to create a stunning floral centrepiece.

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Create the perfect mood this Christmas with Amphora Aromatics’ home aroma range

From festive and warming Orange & Clove through to refreshing Citrus Tonic and Sparkling Wine & Pink Grapefruit, Amphora Aromatics’ home aroma range of natural aromatherapy candles, reed diffusers and incense sticks instantly transform a room – creating the perfect way to relax and unwind or put family and friends in party mood this Christmas.

Passionate about the power of aromatic scent to enhance wellbeing, Amphora Aromatics’

all-natural, clean burning, 20 and 40-hour pot candles are formulated from 100% plant wax from sustainable sources. The range also includes mini fragrant candles, available in colours to complement each scent – from floral and relaxing Rose and Jasmin to sweet and uplifting Mandarin and Vanilla.

Subtly fragrant reed diffusers absorb fragrances through natural reeds, creating a gorgeous ambience. Or, for a more intense aroma, Amphora Aromatics incense sticks come in sleeves of 15. Prices: £5.50 for a 20-hour candle; £9.50 for a 40 hour candle; £13.50 for a natural reed diffuser and £9.00 for a refill. A sleeve of 15 incense sticks is £3.00. To find out more or order contact www.amphora-retail.com or Tel: 01179 087770.

Amphora Aromatics has also created specific blends to promote relaxation and wellbeing, available in the reed diffuser range. Choose from Love & Peace, Relaxing and Meditation.

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THE VISITOR November 2017 41

at Amphora Aromatics, one of the UK's largest suppliers of essential oils and aromatherapy products, ‘Home aromas are a great way of enhancing a feeling of comfort and relaxation in the home or office – particularly over the festive season. From energising

to relaxing, pick a fragrance from our range to suit your mood.

‘Smell is the strongest of our senses and can help us to relax and unwind as well as boost productivity. Our home aroma range is designed to enhance mood and increase wellbeing’.

SJH Carpets offer a full measuring and fitting service on shutters and blinds including Luxaflex products.

42 THE VISITOR November 2017

Dimplex Electronic Aroma Diffuser

Set the mood with the Dimplex DXAD100 Electronic Aroma Diffuser. The diffuser uses whisper quiet ultrasonic cool mist technology to scent your room by adding a few drops of your favourite aromatherapy oil, whilst subtly humidifying the air for up to five hours with just 100ml of water.

Increasing the relaxing effect, the Aroma Diffuser features colour-changing LED mood lights which subtly illuminate the room and the digital alarm clock function can ease you awake with the gentle play of light and scent.

It’s the perfect addition to any room, providing relaxing lighting and luxurious scents.

Dimensions: H: 162mm W: 116mm D: 112mm. RRP: £45.00.

Set the mood with the Dimplex DXAD100 Electronic Aroma Diffuser.

RRP: £45.00.

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THE VISITOR November 2017 43

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park

Wet and Windy

Autumn weather has changed over the years but it is never certain. Strong winds and wet spells are not at all uncommon, driving all but the truly dedicated indoors, but there is so much to enjoy in the garden at this time of year. The autumn has been pleasant enough but has been without the cool nights that

create the really dramatic autumn colours.

Bulb planting is going well; I have given up trying to remember what is already planted and just going for a few new schemes. If there are any bulbs already there and they don’t look right with the new ones then I’ll have to move them when they come out!

Daffodils (the common name for

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Narcissus) should be in by now but it’s amazing what you can get away with! Tulips can be quite happily planted up until the end of November. All bulbs need a period in the ground where they can form the roots and allow themselves time to grow slowly. Forced bulbs for growing indoors and flowering early, are the same sort of plant form but have been given special treatment to make them think spring is already here. They start into growth and flower quickly but are rarely much use afterwards.

The falling leaves make great compost especially if chopped up and mixed with some green sappy material. There is a very easy way

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

to achieve this, if you have leaves on the lawn then simply mowing them up will give you the ideal material to add to your compost heap or bin. The resulting mix of crushed fibrous material and soft sappy leaves quickly heats up in the heap and starts the rot. If you have a shredder then you can add more chopped-up woody bits and more leaves. This is something to get excited about! It really is a form of alchemy: that change in substance from raw materials to a dark, crumbly compost that can be used anywhere in the garden with such great effect. If you want good plants then you really do have to add goodness to the soil and the easiest way to do that is with compost. I know compost bins and heaps take up valuable space in a garden but I can’t imagine not having a space to cope with garden and kitchen waste: it’s just too valuable to throw away, and the soil is just crying out to have it back – if you listen hard enough you can hear it calling!

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Plants for the month of November

Great month for planting as the warm moist soil is just right for helping new plants settle and establish before the winter. Trees, shrubs, perennials or bulbs: all can go in now. National Tree Week is held at the end of November and highlights the opportunities to care for existing trees and plant new ones. We have seen many tree diseases in recent years that have threatened or destroyed some of our native trees. Ash Dieback is the most recent worry and cases have been reported in the south of the county. The Forestry Commission’s website www.forestry.gov.uk/chalara is worth checking for information.

There is one group of plants that includes a number of shrubs and small trees that are generally trouble free. Cornus or dogwoods have lots to offer from colourful foliage, bright stems to graceful shapes. They can add year-round appeal to any garden.

To create a beautiful garden

with year-round appeal it's essential to pick the best plants, and few celebrate the seasons more than colourful Cornus.

These reliable and hardy shrubs provide a luscious leafy backdrop to summer flowers. As a final fanfare their foliage is transformed into a rainbow of colours through autumn before fluttering away to reveal brilliant wand-like stems.

This seasonal transformation is just the start of a host of new planting partnerships that can be enjoyed right through until spring.

During winter the brightly coloured stems of dogwoods catch sunlight to create dazzling displays. Small gardens might only have space for a single plant, so position it where the low piercing winter sunlight will shine through, catching stems in its spotlight.

No wonder varieties have been given names like ‘Winter Beauty’ and ‘Midwinter Fire’ as the intense rays of the sun really bring those fiery-coloured stems to life.

Take a look at the whole range of shrubby dogwoods to discover

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varieties with different foliage and stem colour combinations from ‘Flaviramea’ with green leaves and golden-yellow stems, ‘Spaethii’ with variegated, yellow-edged green leaves and red stems, or the white margined leaves and red stems of ‘Elegantissima’.

Shrubby dogwoods grow well in almost any soil, even moist sites and heavy clay ground.

They'll grow best in a sunny position, but will tolerate some shade. Contrasting colours always work well when developing planting combinations, so consider planting groups of two or more dogwoods together.

Also try planting dogwoods in large patio containers to create seasonal displays with a difference, underplanting them with low winter bedding, leafy perennials and small shrubs.

There are dozens of plants to choose from as partners for

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dogwoods. Some can be planted behind them as a background to enhance the visibility of their stems, while others provide flowering companions through winter. Several low growing plants, like Bergenia and Heuchera, can be planted around clumps to carpet the ground, or underplant with early flowering bulbs like snowdrops, crocus and narcissus.

Cornus are a wide and varied family of shrubs and small trees, so if dogwoods take your fancy check out the rest of the family to discover other great garden performers like the Wedding Cake Tree (Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’) and flowering trees like Cornus kousa and ‘Venus’.

Also look out for the Cornus mas, the Cornelian Cherry, which forms tiny clusters of yellow flowers on bare winter stems that turn into glossy-red cherry-like fruits later in summer.

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THE VISITOR November 2017 45

Popular dogwood varieties for the garden:

For summer foliage and winter stems: Cornus alba varieties – such as ‘Elegantissima’, ‘Aurea’, ‘Spaethii’, and Siberian dogwood ‘Sibirica’; Cornus sericea varieties – such as Golden-twig dogwood ‘Flaviramea’ and dwarf Kelsey's Gold; Cornus sanguinea varieties – such as

‘Midwinter Fire’ and ‘Winter Beauty’.

Small trees with attractive flowers and foliage:

Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ (AGM): Cornus kousa varieties like ‘Miss Satomi’ (AGM); Cornus ‘Venus’.

For winter flowers:

Cornus mas – dainty yellow

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46 THE VISITOR November 2017

flowers in winter, red fruits in late summer.

Jobs for the month:

With winter approaching there are quite a few jobs that need tackling; Clear up fallen leaves – but use the leaves for composting – see the top of this article for ideas on that.

Check tree ties and stakes on newly planted trees are all in good condition.

Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging, and move any with vulnerable plants to a sheltered spot. You can insulate outdoor containers from frost using bubble wrap.

Finish planting tulip and other bulbs for a spring display next year.

Prune roses to prevent windrock.

Plant out winter bedding such as wallflowers, pansies, forgetme-nots and bellis and cover brassicas with netting to keep pigeons off!

Stop winter moth damage to fruit trees using grease bands around the trunks.

Put out bird food and fresh water to encourage winter birds into the garden.

If you are tidying up then an autumn bonfire is a really useful way of disposing of woody and diseased material. The usual precautions apply with making sure a bonfire is safe, especially looking for hibernating hedgehogs – they are about despite the fact that they have lost many of their feeding grounds and suffered from predation by badgers and other animals.

the end bit...

PAPERCHASE

On Mondays the Western Daily Press carries a two-page feature entitled ‘Your Money’. In the 9th October issue this comprised an article on the pitfalls of joint bank accounts, advice on what to do when firms go bust, survey findings on how students are making their money last, a ‘Pound Notes’ column of financial snippets and an article on saving for retirement. All good stuff, but when I read the 16th October issue I felt I had been shortchanged. For the ‘Your Money’

pages contained exactly the same copy and illustrations as I had seen the previous Monday (apart from the retirement savings article which had been replaced by an advertisement). Although I’m a keen supporter of recycling, I take a dim view of a newspaper recycling a large chunk of its content in such a short period of time. But I doubt whether it was intentional – more likely just another manifestation of the paper’s slipshod production process.

The Western Gazette delights in presenting page upon page of group photographs, the latest being a 32-page supplement in the 12th October issue of children who just started attending local primary schools. The schools were named but the faces in the group photographs were not, making it of no interest at all to anyone apart from the parents and grandparents of a child they might recognise. It is, of course, a ploy to get families to buy a

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 on page 12

1. 'The Rain'

2. Seal

copy of the paper, but in these days of cameras in mobile phones I suspect families would be more likely to take their own photographs in preference to buying one from the paper.

This practice of confronting readers with lots of captionless photos is not confined to the Gazette’s supplements. The 12th October issue included half a page of photos of the opening of a school library, two pages of pics of Ilminster carnival, and a page of images of the Yeovil ploughing match – no fewer than 23 photographs, none of them with a caption to tell us who or what is in the picture. The value of a local newspaper lies in the information it carries. By simply presenting images the newspaper becomes just a paper.

The West Country Times supplement in the 3rd October issue of the Western Daily Press carried some splendid photographs of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway’s autumn gala held over the previous weekend, at which its new steam

locomotive was unveiled. The accompanying article contained information about the construction of the new loco, its trials before the launch weekend, and the history of the railway which was closed by the Southern Railway as long ago as 1935.

Sadly the sub-editor who wrote the strapline above the article hadn’t read it. It stated: ‘Roger Malone enjoys the spectacle of the latest edition to the Barnstaple and Lynton Railway.’

The spectacle was the latest addition to the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.

In view of our British sensitivities about death, I would have expected sub-editors to take particular care when producing obituaries. Not so, it seems, in the 29th September issue of the Western Daily Press, as can be seen in the cutting below. As the deceased’s name appears in the headline above and in the first paragraph of the report below, the omission of his name verges on the unforgivable.

Chronicler.

Solution to October

Sudoku

3. Paloma Faith

4. Elvis Costello

5. 'Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' 6. Kate Bush

7. 'Go West'

8. 'The Boxer' - Simon and Garfunkel

9. 'U2'

10. 'Buggles'

Question Impossible 2011

THE VISITOR November 2017 47

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 seasoned Hard & softwood logs  Kindling – Briquettes – Coal  Various load / log sizes

Check our website for COMPETITIVE PRICES ... FREE DELIVERY

Tel: 01458 251529 • Mobile: 07789 204232

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

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

Your calling card reaching 60,000 readers

Small and Large Loads

 01963 351256

tel: 07973 871708 evenings: 01935 825506

... to advertise HeRe

KILN DRIED LOGS

November Deadline Friday 13th October • 01963 351256 BUY NOW – SAVE £££s

 Kiln Dried Logs 1 Dumpy Bag £150  Kiln Dried Logs 2 Dumpy Bags £250  Kiln Dried Logs 3 Dumpy Bags £350  Kiln Dried Logs 3 Nets £25.50  Kiln Dried Logs 6 Nets £48  Kiln Dried Logs 10 Nets £75  Kindling Wood 3 Nets £10  Kindling Wood 5 Nets £15  Kindling Wood 10 Nets £27

Domestic Appliances

Pe

PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs COVERING THE SOUTH LOCALLY

Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs

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

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

Taylors Domestic

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

Ridge View, Penmore Road Sandford Orcas DT9 4SE

Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

01963 220366

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

Roofing

Computer Repairs

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

PROMOTE your BUSINESS HERE ...  01963 351256

Prices Include V.A.T. Kiln Dried Logs  Burn more efficiently give more Heat  light easily  Burn Cleanly

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ... with all orders over £50

Online Ordering Available www.logs4fuel.co.uk

 01458 251476

Transport & Storage

The key to all your storage needs!

Fully insured storage at Highly Competitive Rates Call us today for a quote!

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

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

• Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service

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

• Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff

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

say you saw it in The Visitor

48 THE VISITOR November 2017

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact allan Carey

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

Roofing

Bourton Roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I M AT ES

 01747 840064

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

DEADLINE for ADVERTS for the December Issue is Friday 10th November

Denture Repairs

Are you a denture wearer?

D to menture sm ake y s ile a ou gai n!

Denture repairs while you wait ...

Terry New Denture Clinic

01458 210039

Home visits a speciality

PHONE - a - FIRM

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

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

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴

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

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

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

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

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

Taxis

Private Sue Hire

Mob: 07711 572038

www.taxiatcastlecarystation.co.uk

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

Regular advertising brings results

ADVERTISE in FULL COLOUR this space could be yours for

£40.46 inc. VAT

Oven Cleaning Mister Oven

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

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

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners Covering Somerset and Dorset

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

Experienced + Fully Insured Friendly Staff

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

Fuel Storage Tanks

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd

Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / metal tanks • temporary tanks leaking tanks • tank Cleaning / moving / disposal above or Below ground tanks • 24 Hour Call-out

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

Plumbing & Heating

Caricatures for Special Gifts

(for 3cms x 2 column)

Tel: 01963 351256 – to book your space

Fire & Security Alarms

THE VISITOR November 2017 49

Classified Ads

Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential.

For a Box Number please add £2.

Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.

✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.

Prize Crossword No. 373 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BP – to arrive by Friday 10th November.

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

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

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

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

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

Personal

www.country-link.org.uk CoUntRY linK soCial gRoUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. tel: andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918

Catering / Mobile Bars

HaRRY’s moBile BaRs, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

Services

HoUseHold & gaRden RUBBisH CleaRed, old sheds / outbuildings demolished, etc. tel: 01460 77844.

Special Occasions

HaPPY BiRtHdaY to ted Brown on 29th november.

Passport Photographs

PassPoRts – passports – passports – also studio sittings, and golden weddings. any time to suit you. easy parking opposite the Quarry inn. tel: graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

Wanted

daVe BUYs all tYPes oF tools, salvage, bygones and collectables. daves tools - tel: 01935 428975

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.

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

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.

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

Storage

stoRage for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. tel: sparkford storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

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 November 2017

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Across:

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Keen to arrange joint. [4] Because lock of hair removed from stronghold. [3] Noon is altered for vegetables.

[6] First e-mix brings war. [6] Duke has foam added, bringing timber. [5,3] Few roar with wet horse stirring second-hand condition.

[3,5,3,4] Stir feat for how to depart quickly. [4,3] Notices about fair? Puts right!

[7] Much amused at one time with knee dip and tin clock! [7,4,4] U-boat name at foot of screen?

[8] King George simple? Slimy? [6] Until this time he tore about.

[6] Sun god sold, less an old penny. [3] Slimy creatures look back over first part of life. [4]

7.

18.

19.

21.

22.

24.

Cry of pain after strong breeze? A place to view. [6] Old Peruvian again caught partly. [4] In part, skill. [3] Each musician informed at first of record company. [3] Deep noun arranged, but not unpacked. [8] Mimic about peas to pacify. [7] Mix it in parts of Kent? Young quadruped! [6] Cleats reworked in fortress. [6] Ruse confused employer. [4]

Solution to Crossword 372

Down: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Chants about a quick grab. [6] Concerning prospect with hesitation for critic. [8] Having considered muddled feet of cart liner ... [5,10] After damaged insertion into CD, having been made with skill. [7] Allow odd grow-man a source of bitter mortification and grief. [8,3,4]

THE WINNER OF OUR OCTOBER CROSSWORD was Mrs. J. Strickland of Yeovil, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Ward & Sibley Jewellers of Yeovil.