The Visitor Magazine Issue 413 April 2018

Activate your dental hygiene Your local independent monthly journal  01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Issue 413 April 2018

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In Passing ...

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our years ago I was beginning to feel I was drowning in the deluge of TV programmes, newspaper supplements, books and articles commemorating the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. Later this year we will be remembering the Armistice that ended the fighting on the Western Front on 11th November 1918, although that was not the official end of the war. The Peace Treaty signed at Versailles on 27th June 1919 was the declaration that the war was finally over, and celebrations were held throughout the British Empire on Peace Day, 19th July.

So it seems likely that the media deluge will continue for a further year.

Rightly so, for every community in Visitorland was affected by the war in one way or another. The abundance of war memorials in our towns and villages bears witness to the local men who died in battle, and research by parish councils and church congregations has revealed the stories of many of those who died.

But what of those who stayed here at home? Women were recruited to do the jobs vacated by the men who went to fight.

Farming changed in an attempt to tackle food shortages and the Women’s Land Army was set up to tackle the shortage of farm labour. Young women were sent from far and wide to South Somerset to help harvest the important flax crop used for making the fabric that covered the frames of military aircraft. Belgian refugees fleeing from the German invasion of their homeland were welcomed and accommodated in Yeovil and surrounding villages.

Red Cross hospitals were set up in many schools and country houses and wounded soldiers from the Allied nations came for treatment and convalescence. Local volunteers assisted the nurses and helped with running the hospitals and they organised special events such as garden parties and concerts to entertain the patients. They raised money to support numerous wartime good causes and they

made countless items of comfort including socks, balaclavas, shirts, towels and blankets to send to local men serving abroad.

Much more about life on the home front is featured in the current exhibition in the Rural Life Museum at Glastonbury.

Entitled ‘Echoes of War: Somerset Countryside 1914-1918’, it uses archive documents and photographs together with objects of the period to show how our county was affected by the war and how it changed our rural communities. It has been staged by the South West Heritage Trust to help people discover the significance and the legacy of the war. The exhibition runs until 2nd June and is well worth a visit.

As we commemorate the cessation of fighting a century ago we should also remember that the peace lasted barely two decades and that the next war brought another wave of changes to Visitorland.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines May Issue published Thursday 26th April Deadline Monday 16th April

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BP

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

Accounts, Advertising, Editorial and Subscriptions Rachel Hancox © The Visitor Ltd. 2018

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

CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 50 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 38 CREWKERNE - 13

CROSSWORD - 50

GLASTONBURY - 37

HOUSE & HOME - 15

LEISURE - Lets Go Out & About - 28

LOOKING GOOD A New Look For Spring - 24 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 4 MOTORING - 39

MUSIC for the MONTH - 31 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.

NATIONAL PET MONTH - 14 NOTICE BOARD - 30 PAPERCHASE - 47

PHONE-A-FIRM - 48 PUBS - 45

SHERBORNE - 32

SPRING IN TO THE GARDEN - 40 STREET Business Focus- 35

THEY SAY - Returns next month

WINE & DINE - Returns next month

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR April 2018 3

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Somerset Wildlife Trust Unveils 2018 Somerset Nature Reserves Fund

Nature Reserves Fund Appeal launches to ensure populations of ‘unsung wildlife superheroes’ that keep the county’s ecosystems healthy are secure for the future.

The annual fund was launched in 2016 to ensure the charity had the vital ongoing funds to maintain the basic underlying health of all Somerset Wildlife Trust’s nature’s reserves across the county. The Fund has since inspired many who care about the county’s precious landscapes to make donations, which have made a real difference to the Trust’s ability to keep these special places secure for the next generation.

Given the continuing depletion of our meadows, hedgerows and ancient woodland which come as a result of the many pressures the county is under, SWT’s nature reserves are more important than ever so it is vital the Fund continues to be successful. The Trust hopes that those that care about Somerset’s wildlife and habitats will make donations and support the charity’s work.

This year the Fund puts the spotlight on how important it is that the Trust is able to look after populations of insects and small mammals through its work, so the natural ecosystems and food chains on reserves remain strong.

Simon Nash, Chief Executive explains in a little more detail: ‘Our nature reserves are critical in terms of providing perfect habitats where vulnerable wildlife can survive and thrive, and have been the cornerstone of our work to deliver some of our more high-profile conservation successes, such as that which has been achieved for Bittern, Large

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4 THE VISITOR April 2018

Blue butterflies and Barn Owls.

But these successes need sustaining with ongoing specialist habitat management and, in fact, they are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the challenges that all our county’s wildlife species face ahead.

‘What is abundantly clear is that we can’t underestimate the importance of ensuring that our smaller, lesser seen species – particularly our invertebrates exist in good number on our reserves. It is upon these unsung heroes that all our wildlife depends, as they serve as vital food sources for many other species within the wider ecosystems of our wetlands, woodlands, grasslands and beyond.

‘Alarming research from Germany last year revealed that there had been an 80% reduction in the amount of flying insects since 1989, which compounds the fact that we must strengthen our reserves with bioabundance (numbers of) in mind as well as biodiversity (variety of), so we ensure that vital links in our natural systems are not eroded quietly out of sight.

‘The annual cost of managing our reserves is significant, so The Somerset Nature Reserves Fund

is a really important way to raise the ongoing necessary funds for us to support them literally from the ground up, so their underlying health is robust enough to counter the considerable pressures that lay ahead. People in Somerset really do understand that this work takes a huge amount of effort and investment annually, so we are grateful for the support the Fund has received to date, and hope that people can support us and our work again this year. Every donation really does make a real difference.’

Justin Daish makes a welcome return to the Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne

On Friday 27th April, the Henhayes Community Centre in Crewkerne will once again be hosting an evening of entertainment by Justin Daish, the only performer at the Centre ever to have received a standing ovation!

Justin is a professional solo guitarist who will be playing songs and instrumentals from across the decades. If you like the Shadows you will enjoy this! Justin was lead guitarist for the legendary musician Jet Harris before Harris’ death in 2011 and has performed with the Shadows’ Bruce Welch and Brian

‘Licorice’ Locking. ‘A remarkably proficient guitarist’ – Guitar and Bass magazine.

A hot supper of Lasagne or Vegetable Lasagne followed by Lemon Ginger Crunch will be served before the concert. Tickets priced at £18 to include supper or £10 without supper are available from the Henhayes Centre. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Doors and bar open at 6.00pm, supper served at 6.30pm and the concert starts at 7.45pm. All proceeds will support the work of the Centre. For further information call the Centre on 01460 74340 or email: henhayescentre @btconnect.com.

Yeovil Opportunity Group benefits from funding

Yeovil Opportunity Group (YOG), who provide specialist care to pre-school children with additional needs and their families, have recently been awarded a £3,000 grant from Somerset Community Foundation - which includes a contribution from Hidden Needs Trust (HNT).

Rachel Goodfellow, founder and fundraiser at HNT, said: ‘Hidden Needs Trust was set up to raise awareness of the vital work that the Opportunity

Groups in Somerset and Dorset provide, and we are delighted to have donated money towards Yeovil Opportunity Group’s latest bid for funding.’

Rachel continues: ‘One of our next big fundraisers is a marathon with a difference! I’ll be undertaking it in a specially modified sports wheelchair, for which I’m currently seeking sponsorship. I’m also delighted that Ebony Court, who went to Yeovil Opportunity Group as a child and is now a sprint wheelchair para-athlete, will be accompanying me on the race, which is taking place at Sherborne Summer Festival on Saturday 16 June.’

Grant funding supports most of the running costs at the four

Opportunity Groups, which are located in Yeovil, Taunton, Dorchester and Blandford Forum, and the groups rely heavily on donations and fundraising so that they can continue to provide their unique service to children and their parents.

Rachel Goodfellow goes on to say: ‘I have also written my first book, ‘The Adventures of Y’, which is a fun collection of tales about my autistic daughter and the challenges we face as a family.

This will be ready to go into book format later this year, once the illustrations are complete. We’re currently seeking a publisher, so that we can continue to raise more funds for the Opportunity Groups – if anyone can help, please do

get in touch!’

For more information about the fundraising Hidden Needs Trust has planned, or to help with sponsorship for the sports wheelchair or finding a publisher for Rachel’s book, you can visit their website: www.hidden needstrust.org.

If you run a local community project and would like to find out more about grant funding, please call Somerset Community Foundation on: 01749 344949 or visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk.

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd

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

Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training From left to right: Rachel Goodfellow, Kim Duller and Sue Wheeler at the cheque presentation at Yeovil Opportunity Group.

Personal and professional service

THE VISITOR April 2018 5

6 THE VISITOR April 2018

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Making everyday life easier

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

Why choose Suttons Stairlifts?

They aim to provide an ethical, reliable and prompt service to their valued customers. Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring them to their friends and relations, they have achieved a solid reputation for integrity and exceptional service. Suttons Stairlifts is now a well-established family-run company committed to providing expert advice with a no-pressure selling policy, guaranteed!

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

business practices required by the British Healthcare Trades Association.

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

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

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

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

What happens next? Suttons will

An outdoor stairlift from Suttons could help you get out this spring.

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

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

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THE VISITOR April 2018 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches

It’s nearly time…for the Langport Clock to have a Facelift: The Crowdfunding Project started 1st March.

Please give your support!

Can you imagine Langport without its famous octagonal clock?

In the 19th century Langport had several clockmakers and there has been a clock at Langport Town Hall since 1802.

The present one, with its unusual octagonal shape, dates from the late 1890s.

In 2012 the clock was internally upgraded with Automatic Winding and

Regulation Systems.

However the clock dial and casing has been deteriorating badly over recent years and if it doesn’t get refurbished soon, it could prove very hazardous.

The Clock is such a focal point of the Town Centre and visitors and residents alike have been really disappointed with its appearance. We know we need to act now.

Time is marching on – Langport Town Trust needs to raise £7000 to have the clock professionally restored to last another 30 years.

Scaffolding will be erected and the clock dial and casing will be carefully removed and sent away to specialists to be restored.

When fully complete the Langport Town Clock will proudly show the time clearly once more in Bow Street.

Please support the Crowdfunding Project through

the link that will appear on our website. Alternatively you can make donations direct to Langport Town Trust now in the following ways:By Cheque (made payable to Langport Town Trust) Town Hall, Bow Street, Langport, TA10 9PR – quoting ref: CLOCK on the reverse of the cheque.

By BACS to Langport Town Trust, Acc number: 37004409 – sort code: 60-12-34, quoting ref: CLOCK – Time is marching on!

Thank you so much for your support in looking after Langport’s heritage.

Unlocking potential: Somerset charity Key4Life scoops national CSJ award

Based in the heart of the Somerset countryside, Key4Life has established itself as one of the most successful organisations turning around the lives of some of the most prolific young offenders in the country.

In recognition of its achievements it was presented with the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) award for employment, education and skills at a ceremony in London on Tuesday 13th March. The award is given each year an outstanding organisation focused on helping children and

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8 THE VISITOR April 2018

young people to reach their full potential.

Key4Life has honed its methods for mentoring, training and upskilling young offenders over five years and is now recording astonishing results.

While nationally three in four young offenders re-offend two years post-release, among Key4Life participants, the figure is as low as 14 per cent.

One year post release, nearly two thirds (64 per cent) of participants are in employment compared to the national average of fewer than one in six (15 per cent).

Key4Life works within prisons and outside in communities and schools where deprivation is high. The mentoring provided aims to help the young person to understand and change their underlying attitudes, behaviours and aspirations, while also addressing their confidence, selfesteem and resilience.

Key4Life also organises work experience for ex-offenders or young people at risk of committing crime in local companies, which often result in the offer of long-term employment. Key4Life’s success has resulted in their being approached by the Metropolitan Police and several London schools to replicate their success in the capital.

Andy Cook, chief executive of the Centre for Social Justice commented: ‘Key4Life succeeds because it treats the whole person – from mental health needs to supporting the young person emotionally and building aspirations to providing skills necessary to achieve employment.

‘The charity understands many young people they treat have been caught up in gang life.

Often they have experienced serious youth violence and

suffered trauma.

‘The support, choice and direction provided by Key4Life builds the foundations upon which young offenders can rebuild their lives.

‘There are as many as 20,000 young people under 25 years old in prison. It costs taxpayers £55,000 per year to imprison each young offender.

‘It is in all our interests to get those numbers down. If Key4Life has unlocked the secret behind cutting reoffending, there is huge potential in rolling its model out nationwide and seeing those unacceptably high numbers fall.’

Hart Mobility, Yeovil

Hart Mobility is a family run business based in Yeovil, Somerset and it’s hard to believe they have owned the shop for 8 years. Most of their business is by word of mouth and recommendation. They stock Mobility scooters, new and pre owned, wheelchairs, rise and recline chairs, stairlifts, daily aids and so much more.

Servicing and repairs available too. Free parking is available and good old fashioned great customer service.

Drop in for a free demonstration or a browse. They look forward to welcoming you.

#iwill Fund: grants for local groups

Groups working with young people that may be eligible to apply for grants from the #iwill Fund are encouraged to submit their applications to Somerset Community Foundation by the deadline of Friday 11th May. The #iwill Fund aims to encourage youth social action among young people aged between 10 and 20 years, and up to 25 for disabled young people.

Social action - such as volunteering, fundraising and campaigning - can develop the skills and knowledge of young

people, boosting access to further education, higher education and employment and the #iwill Fund is open for grant applications of £1,000 - £5,000.

Projects can last up to one year or be one-off events, and repeat funding is a possibility for those who were awarded a grant last year.

Previous local groups who received funding, include: Ilminster Entertainment Society’s Youth Theatre; The Power Through Music project delivered by Actiontrack (Taunton); Wells City Football Club; Onion Collective (Watchet);

CSJ awards 2018 – Key4Life – Rt Hon Ester McVey MP, Anthon, founder Eva Hamilton, Penny Marshall and Amanda Platell Hart Mobilty of Yeovil.

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Interested? See their advert on page 2 for more details.

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THE VISITOR April 2018 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches 2BU (Taunton); Wincanton Youth Theatre; Berrow Junior Football Club.

Youth social action creates a double benefit, strengthening communities and developing the skills of the young participants by transforming character and improving well-being.

The #iwill Fund, created with funding from the UK Government and the Big Lottery Fund, is part of the

national #iwill campaign, coordinated by the charity Step Up To Serve, and aims to get six out of ten young people involved in social action by 2020. It has been made possible thanks to a £40 million joint investment of National Lottery funding through the Big Lottery Fund and from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Part of managing the #iwill Fund includes match funding, meaning Somerset Community Foundation need to raise an additional £30,000 to create a pot of £60,000 in total for grant making. If you would like to support this fund with a donation, or you would like to find out more, you can get in

Ilminster Entertainment Society’s Youth Theatre has raised money to purchase a new building with the help of #iwill funding.

Keep your independence at home with

touch with Somerset Community Foundation on 01749 344949 or email: info@somersetcf.org.uk. To apply to the fund, visit: www. somersetcf.org.uk/iwill.

Beautiful holiday home in Holsworthy, North Devon.

Judi Lamb welcomes you to ‘Lotus’ Bungalow; a cosy, comfy and peaceful holiday home with a difference for family, friends and guests to enjoy all year around. ‘Lotus’ is a unique one bedroom bungalow with a spacious bathroom, wood burner and comfy sofa bed for extra guests to enjoy. With a sunny, south facing conservatory overlooking its peaceful garden and a fully equipped kitchen, ‘Lotus’ Bungalow really is a home away from home.

This holiday home is perfect for couples, walkers and cyclists as it overlooks the viaduct which forms part of Devon’s renowned Tarka Cycle Trail. Amenities are just a short 5-8 minute walk away in the market town of Holsworthy.

Visit lotuscottagedevon.co.uk where you will find more information and an array of positive reviews written by previous guests. Judi often receives repeat bookings, a true

sign of satisfied holiday-makers!

You can call Judi on 07828 733485 or for further contact details, please see advert below.

Longleat over-run by giant predators

Dozens of giant animatronic predators will be greeting visitors to Longleat this Easter as part of a major new attraction.

Predators’ showcases a menagerie of moving models including a deep sea anglerfish, a giant 12-metre-long saltwater crocodile, a polar bear, a Komodo dragon and a three-metre-tall spitting cobra – which actually spits.

Located in and around Longleat’s Main Square, each of the models is set within its own environment and linked by a series of interpretation boards describing how these special animals use their unique adaptations to become some of the planet’s ultimate predators.

One of the scenes features a male lion looking down from a rock ready to steal a zebra carcass from a pack of hyenas. The scene comes complete with authentic roars, yips and snarls.

Another portrays a giant redbacked shrike, also known as the butcher bird, sitting on a thorn bush where its victims; including

Easter Offer!

Careline gives that 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…

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Live alone or sometimes feel at risk?

Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents?

Worry about their safety in an emergency?

Want to help them maintain their independence?

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

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

To celebrate Easter, for all new installations booked before 30th April through this advert, we will offer free set up and connection! Please quote this advert when you contact us.

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

Contact us on 01935 479815 careline@southsomerset.gov.uk www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk Initial connection/setup fee £33.84* Hire and monitoring £3.96 per week *waived if on certain benefits

10 THE VISITOR April 2018

l

Wash the birdie - an over-sized Shrike gets a final clean from a Longleat staff member prior to the opening of the new Predators attraction at Easter. Photo: Dave McGirr.

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a lizard, ladybird, beetle and a grasshopper are all impaled on spikes.

Alongside modern day carnivores the new attraction features prehistoric predators with a magnificent sabre-toothed cat and a 10-metre-long Baryonyx dinosaur brought thrillingly back to life. There’s even a giant Venus flytrap plant which visitors can trigger into action by throwing over-sized flies into its snapping traps.

Predators runs from March 24th until September 3rd at Longleat, Warminster, Wilts BA12 7NW. Online admission

from £29.70 for adults and £22.27 for children (3-15 yrs). For more information and to book visit www.longleat.co.uk or call 01985 844400.

Lavender & Co Summer Opening 2018

The Axbridge Lavender field will be opening on the end of May bank holiday weekend, 26th, 27th and 28th May 2018. Then on every Saturday and Sunday until the end of August. Opening times 11am to 4pm with free entry and parking. Well behaved dogs on lead are welcome, visit www. lavenderandco.co.uk.

CARPETS ARE COMING TO LANGPORT Established for 18 years, SJH CARPETS & FLOORING open their third shop on Monday 9th April in the charming Old Post Office.

Visit their new shop to see their range of I Carpets I Naturals I Laminates

The Axbridge Lavender field

I Vinyls I Woods I LVTs

I Blinds I Roll Stock

Stocking:

Roger Oates Design Cormar Carpets Victoria Carpets Whitestone Weavers Moduleo Harvey Maria Luxaflex Shutters & Blinds

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THE VISITOR April 2018 11

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Louise Waugh 'A View Of My Own' A brand new collection of work - Exhibition at the John Leach Gallery at Muchelney Pottery 24th March - 29th May

The John Leach Gallery is delighted to welcome Louise Waugh for an exhibition of her

latest work this Spring.

'My paintings come from a delight in the visual world around me. I have no particular theme except for choosing something that excites me and a love of the natural world, like the shapes and colours that I see in a landscape - sometimes with a human element included for a narrative. I feel particularly drawn to Cornwall, to the sea and to wild places where I go off to paint as often as possible. A recent trip to Italy last year also proved to be very inspiring.

Creating art has always been

Louise Waugh ‘Down to the sea’.

core to my being. From my early days studying etching in Granada, Spain, I have always taken the path of the artist which defines who I am. I began exhibiting age 20 and my first exhibition was at the then 'Bristol Arts Centre' where I exhibited large woodcuts and linocuts.

I am now based in a rural studio in West Somerset, painting primarily in oil and acrylic. My joy is to be out, whatever the weather, with my sketchbook and a small box of watercolours and pencils, taking down the scene as I see it.

Sometimes the sketches lay dormant in a book for years and then I decide to reignite the remembered moment of when I first drew them. Sketching is an essential part of the process for me, the image is instantly imprinted on the mind, something that can’t be achieved by looking through a lens. Once I have the beginnings I return to my studio and infuse the subject with my imagination and the colour palette of my choice. I am not interested in being representational but instead expressing the essence of what I am depicting.

I have been an artist all my life and have exhibited in the U.S.A, Spain, Italy, London and the South West of England.'

Exhibition opens Saturday 24th March 2018. Gallery open Monday - Saturday, 9-1, 2-5 (inc bank holidays). Muchelney Pottery, Muchelney, Nr. Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DW. Tel: 01458 250324 or visit www. johnleachpottery.co.uk.

Flying the state-of-the-art F-16C Block 52+, the team is named after the ancient Greek sky and thunder god.

Established in late 2009, the demo team has made just two previous UK visits. Its stunninglypainted F-16 performs a striking solo display, flown this year by Major Loukas Theocharopoulos.

Further contributions come from the Czech Air Force with their JAS 39C Gripen solo display. Its display at last year’s Air Day was rewarded with the ‘Best Fixed Wing Display’ award (joint winners with the French Navy Rafale pair).

At the controls will be Captain Ivo Kardoš, whose electric routine underlines this very dynamic aircraft’s superb manoeuverability.

First flown in 1988 – 30 years ago – the Saab Gripen is a dashing lightweight multirole fighter that equips the Czech Air Force’s 211th Tactical Squadron, based at Čáslav.

Alongside the Gripen, the Czech Air Force will also provide its solo Aero L-159 ALCA (Advanced Light Combat Aircraft). Unique on the European airshow scene – the type equips no other NATO air arm – the ALCA’s energetic display combines agility, speed and grace to outstanding effect.

The Greek and Czech aircraft join already-confirmed Austrian, Canadian, French and Lithuanian assets, at an increasinglyinternational Air Day, with more additions yet to be confirmed.

Discounted advance tickets can be booked at www.royalnavy. mod.uk/yeovilton-airday.

Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton International Air Day's latest addition is a show first

Making its Air Day debut, the Hellenic Air Force F-16 Demo Team ‘Zeus’ will participate in the flying display on Saturday 7 July.

12 THE VISITOR April 2018

HAF F-16C Fighting Falcon 'Zeus'. Photo: Paul Fiddian.

CzAF Gripen. Photo: Tom-Houquet.

Rise and recline chairs are available from Regency Care & Mobilty, Crewkerne, from £495.00.

companionship with a Friday morning games session starting after Easter.

There are three sessions of Physio-fit to help with mobility and balance and a keep-fit class for those a little fitter. The Centre provides hot meals each weekday,

all they ask is that they are informed by 10.30 if you are coming.

There is a Craft/table top sale on the third Saturday morning and a big breakfast on the last Saturday.

For more information about the Henhayes Centre visit: www.henhayes.co.uk.

Regency Care & Mobility, Crewkerne

The New UK Ambassador dual motor riser recliner is available from Regency Care & Mobility, Crewkerne The new Ambassador® chair is different from any other riser recliner chair with its superbly supportive seating positioning system and deep waterfall cushions providing the ultimate in seating comfort. Its unique design enables almost any individual to achieve maximum comfort, whether seated, rising or reclining. With dual motor, a waterfall back and available in small, medium and large specifications and a range of colours, there is sure to be a version you’ll love.

The New UK Ambassador is made in the UK and comes with a 5 Year Guarantee. Available from Regency Care & Mobility, Crewkerne. Contact them today and find out about their fantastic range of furniture and living aids which could make your everyday life better!

Find them at 10 Falkland Square, Crewkerne, Someret, TA18 7JS, next to Costa Coffee. Call 01460 271172 for further information.

Part exchan availabge le

Step inside!

We have a wonderful choice of

rise & recline chairs & Beds New & Pre-owned Scooters ... to suit all budgets

acorn Stairlifts

The Henhayes Community Centre in Crewkerne

The Henhayes Community Centre in Crewkerne is a charity and has to raise all its own income.

It holds various groups and classes aimed at keeping the over 50’s fit and healthy. For example, the Monday Memory group helps those recently diagnosed with dementia, the Tuesday Welcome group provides stimulation and

home Visits

 On-The-Premises Servicing  call in and see us at ...

Next to coSta coffee aND withiN eaSy reach of MaiN car Park

10 Falkland Square Crewkerne, TA18 7JS  01460 271172

www.regencycareandmobility.co.uk “if you can’t come to us we will come to you”

THE VISITOR April 2018 13

Market Square, Crewkerne

Chalmers & Co, Crewkerne Getting ready for Making Tax Digital

The government has back-tracked on their original proposal to digitise taxpayers’ affairs. The original plan, to have most self-employed traders and landlords uploading accounts and VAT data from April 2018, was scrapped.

The new plan, delayed until April 2019, requires traders registered for VAT, and with turnover above the current £85,000 registration threshold, to upload their VAT figures digitally direct from a HMRC software interface. HMRC has offered, somewhat tongue in cheek, that taxpayers not required under

these revised criteria, are non-theless welcome to upload their VAT numbers this way on a voluntary basis.

The outcome of these changes requires affected businesses to use compatible software – to link with HMRC – from April 2019.

Those VAT traders who are still using a manual record-keeping process, or IT solutions that will not be recognised by HMRC’s systems, will need to upgrade to more suitable software during the next year.

Clients and other VAT registered business owners that are concerned about their readiness for these changes should call for advice on 01460 279000.

Delaware Veterinary Group Castle Cary and Yeovil

New 15 minute consults at no extra charge. At Delaware Veterinary Group they want to ensure that they spend time understanding you and your pet’s needs which is why they have increased their standard consulting time to 15 minutes.

A nose to tail health check and advice on preventative healthcare with time to discuss and address any concerns, and at NO EXTRA COST. If you need them in an emergency you will be guaranteed to be seen by one of their professional and helpful clinical team as they provide all of their own out of hours services too. Same practice, same vet and same great price. If you are not already registered at the practice visit www.delawarevets.co.uk for an online registration form.

Pet Portraits

Memories that last forever: Why not commission a portrait of your dog from C.A. Adlington.

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

A portrait of your dog in pastels

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

pasteldogportraits.co.uk

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

Contact C. A. Adlington

01749 813524

14 THE VISITOR April 2018

Accidents happen! Look after your pet with professional help.

ORDERS WELCOME

TWO STORES in two counties, Wiltshire and Somerset, offering a fantastic range of quality furniture and old fashioned customer service

Suites, Bedroom Furniture, Beds, Dining and Living, Soft Furnishings, * DIY, * Electricals and much more!

No sales or gimmicks, just everyday low prices -all year round!

FREE RY DELI0VmEile radius

Crockerton Shopping Centre, Crockerton WARMINSTER, Wiltshire, BA12 8AP

Tel: 01985 211690 Email: crockertonfurniturecentre@btconnect.com www.crockertonfurniturecentre.co.uk Just off the A350

Monday – Saturday 9:30 – 17:00, Sunday 10:00 – 16:00 Good Friday & Easter Monday 10:00 – 16:00 CLOSED EASTER SUNDAY

a3 within oth stores of b

Crockerton Store Only *Only available at Ilminster

Ditton Street, ILMINSTER Somerset, TA19 0EJ

Tel: 01460 57247 Email: mark@ilminsterwarehouse.co.uk www.ilminsterwarehouse.co.uk

Monday – Friday 8:30 – 17:00, Saturday 9:00 – 17:00 Good Friday & Easter Monday 10:00 – 16:00 CLOSED EASTER SUNDAY THE VISITOR April 2018 15

Turner Windows of Somerton

Turner Windows Ltd has been established in Somerton for eight years, proprietor Craig Turner having started the company in 2010 with the help of key staff such as Anne Perry as well as 2 teams of employed fitters and a salesman Mike. Craig was a fitter made good, and has built up the company with a quality over quantity attitude, to enable their

customers to have confidence when buying from them.

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

Craig takes pride in being an active member of the community locally. Turner Windows are

Made To Measure

Gates & Railings • Handrails • Garden Furniture Curtain Poles • Pond Covers, etc.

General Welding & Repairs

Enquiries: 01935 864444 desiron0@gmail.com

Unit 5, East Coker Saw Mills, East Coker, BA22 9JJ

delighted to be the main sponsors for Somerton Rugby Club.

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

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

Turner Windows are Approved LEKA Warm Roof installers, a high-quality product which can transform your conservatory into a space to be enjoyed all year around. Craig noted it as one of

the best warm roof conservatory products currently on the market.

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

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

Frank Schrijver Damp Control

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

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

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

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

Please check out www.southwest-damp.co.uk or call 01689 800101. See their advert on page 7.

School goes bananas over food waste

16 THE VISITOR April 2018

The waste of food that has travelled around the world to reach our plates has sent Somerset schoolchildren bananas.

Pupils at St Gilda's Catholic Primary School in Mary Street, Yeovil, were among the first to join the Schools Against Waste programme backed by the six council partners in Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP).

Schools Against Waste will see thousands of pupils learning about everything from plastics

to composting in a programme of 90 school visits over the next year by Somerset’s eco-education charity the Carymoor Environmental Trust.

Pupils will explore how the next generation can help their families and communities ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ to tackle issues of concern, such as plastics polluting their world.

Carymoor’s Karen Boswell ran the waste session with the St Gilda’s children that focused on food miles and packaging.

She said that the children looked at the example of bananas and considered the amount of energy and water that goes into growing, harvesting, transportation and packaging, and how this can all be wasted if it is then thrown away in the UK. The UK throws away 1.4 million bananas a day, according to the national Love Food Hate Waste campaign. Karen added: ‘One of the children was dressed up in a banana costume, which certainly adds something!’

Schools Against Waste offers

‘Talking Rubbish’ assemblies and classroom activities linked to the curriculum key stages, such as turning food waste into compost, learning about actions to prevent future environmental problems, and exploring the impact of plastics.

As well as engaging an army

of young warriors against waste i n So m e rs e t , t he C a ry m o o r experts will also spend time with staff to review the school’s current recycling and offer practical advice and support to help it waste less and recycle more.

Schools Against Waste marks

the 10th anniversary of SWP’s founding, and is a key part of the build-up to Somerset’s 2020 realignment of waste services, such as the roll-out of Recycle More collections of more plastics each week and three-weekly pick-ups of shrinking levels of rubbish.

Growing concern: Pupils from St Gilda’s learn the lessons of food waste.

THE VISITOR April 2018 17

Sprinkler Week starts with a major building fire - why don’t we learn?

By Iain Cox, Chairman of the Business Sprinkler Alliance IT WAS IRONIC that the start of Sprinkler Week (12th-16th March) saw the announcement of a massive fire in Daventry with the total destruction of a 400,000 square foot warehouse – a warehouse that was only a matter of months old. Built at a cost of over £15million and designed with sustainability in mind (it achieved the global sustainability standard, BREEAM), it begs the question, why were sprinklers not included? To top it off, the week ended with yet another fire at a builders merchants in Brighton.

The issue with fire is that all too often we think it won’t happen to us and when it does it is too

late to do anything about it. We also don’t always appreciate the impact it can have – but inconvenience is something that we are all too quick to react to. It was only a few weeks ago that many of us were struggling with the snow. When schools close due to bad weather for a couple of days it means disruption. Imagine if your child's school closed due to fire damage. Imagine the disruption a long term closure or relocation will have on your child’s education? But then there is a double standard when you consider local authorities across England and Wales have fined parents more than £24 million for taking their children out of school during term time but don’t appear to mind if schools are disrupted in the event of fire. It has been estimated that fires in UK schools

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18 THE VISITOR April 2018

disrupt the education of 90,000 children and students every year.

Who is picking up that tab and what are we doing about it? Well not enough. In 2016, only 30% of new schools were built with sprinklers.

Sprinkler Week marked the launch of the NFCC’s (National Fire Chiefs Council) longer term plan to push for legislative change. It was also an opportunity to educate building owners and designers by dispelling the many myths surrounding sprinklers and help people understand their many benefits.

Sprinklers save lives and reduce injuries. They protect firefighters who attend incidents and reduce the amount of damage to both property and the environment from fire. In fact they are so good at protecting property that many business that experience a fire and have sprinklers fitted, are able to be back up and operational within days if not hours.

There is clear evidence that sprinklers work. In fact, the NFCC and the National Fire Sprinkler Network (NFSN) have worked together to investigate the effectiveness and reliability of sprinkler systems. Evidence shows that sprinkler systems operate on 94% of occasions demonstrating very high reliability. Furthermore, it is evident that when they do operate they extinguish or contain the fire on 99% of occasions.

Fire doesn’t discriminate; it

doesn’t distinguish one building type to another. Its one constant, is that it wrecks lives. The devastating effect of fire was brought into sharp focus with last year’s Grenfell tragedy. As a result, it looks like regulatory change is on its way but the question I am currently finding myself asking, is this change going to be enough?

Since Grenfell the weaknesses in our system of fire regulation has been exposed. This has been reinforced in Dame Judith Hackitt's Interim Report into the Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety calling it “not fit for purpose”. The concern is that we are now in the position of expecting a massive step forward in terms of regulatory guidance and if the rumours are to be heeded, we may just get cosmetic improvements. This isn’t enough.

What we need is a wide and deep review of the current Regulations and Guidance – something which many in the Fire Sector have been highlighting to Government for many years. We need this review to consider how we make our buildings resilient. Yes life safety is important, but we need to consider property protection too.

Sprinklers provide property protection and I am in no doubt that if the project design team or consultant had recommended sprinklers or the client had insisted on sprinklers, the fire in Daventry would not have had the devastating impact it has had.

Not only has this fire had a massive financial impact in terms of an insurance claim, jobs will be at risk, the local economy will be affected and there is the environmental impact that removing a fire damaged building and rebuilding it will have.

Sprinklers would have helped to create a resilient building and the owners would not be facing the challenges that now lie ahead for them.

Sprinkler Week is important.

It’s important that we understand the effect fires have and the benefits that sprinklers have. It is also important that we keep pushing for the regulatory change that is so needed. Sprinklers are an effective part of an overall fire safety solution. They can be used efficiently to improve fire safety in a range of new and existing buildings. They save lives, they save property.

Sprinkler Systems: Myths and misconceptions

They have been around for more than 140 years and operate on a tried and tested principle - being set off by heat. Notwithstanding that, sprinklers have been refined and improved over the decades utilising new materials and scientific design to produce droplets that most effectively extinguish the fire. Despite this, there remains a lack of understanding and some surprising misconceptions which tragically prevent them from being installed. The Business Sprinkler Alliance dispels and debunks the myths, and demonstrates why automatic fire sprinklers can stop a fire in its tracks, providing round-the-clock, cost-effective protection for buildings.

Myth 1: A fire detection system provides enough protection.

Fire detection systems save lives by providing a warning of fire, but can do nothing to control or extinguish a growing fire.

Myth 2: Water damage from a fire sprinkler system will be more

extensive than fire damage.

Water damage from a fire sprinkler system will be far less severe than the damage caused by water from firefighters’ hoses.

Modern sprinklers operate very quickly to release 45 – 200 litres of water per minute, compared to 700 – 4000 litres per minute discharged by fire service hoses and jets.

Myth 3: When one sprinkler goes off, won’t they all go off?

All sprinklers going off at once might well have been perpetuated

by Hollywood for comic and dramatic effect but only the sprinkler heads in the immediate vicinity of a fire will operate because each sprinkler head is individually activated by heat.

Research carried out over 20 years shows that 80% of fires are controlled or extinguished by the operation of fewer than six sprinkler heads.

Myth 4: Fire sprinklers are expensive to maintain.

Sprinkler systems must be inspected, tested, and maintained to ensure a high degree of

reliability. However, sprinkler systems only need two maintenance visits a year by a contractor. This costs around £500 a year for larger systems. Small systems require only an annual visit and this will cost between £75 and £100.

Any misconception surrounding the costs of sprinkler systems can be dispelled by looking at the true costs of a building over the lifespan of that building. The low wholelife costs of a fire sprinkler system make investment attractive. Fire sprinkler systems will last the lifetime of a building without major replacement or refurbishment. The industry claims a service life of around 40 years, but it is well known that there are many sprinkler systems

from the 1930s which are still operational.

Automatic fire sprinkler systems are critical to physical resilience and business continuity. When a fire starts in a building fitted with a fully functioning sprinkler system it has a high probability of being contained from the outset, controlling or extinguishing the fire in advance of fire and rescue services’ arrival. In the vast majority of cases the impacted business is fully functioning within hours. They save lives, reduce the threat to firefighters, reduce the burden on the fire service, save businesses, save jobs and protect the environment.

For more information about the BSA visit the www.businesssprinkler-alliance.org.

AP Kitchen Solutions

NEW YEAR - NEW KITCHEN

Bathing a problem? We can help

 Kitchens replaced for a fresh new look at a reasonable price  Complete new kitchens designed to suit you

 Replacement doors – “don’t replace it, reface it”

 Huge choice of granite and quartz worksurfaces  Full range of accessories and appliances

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

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To discuss your personal requirements contact Adam or call at our showroom

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

Simply affordable solutions for bathing needs

Wet rooms • Walk in showers • Walk in baths Waterproof wall panelling Product and installation guarantee Slip resistant safety flooring Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets Established family business Zero VAT on disabled bathrooms Discounts for over 60s, SSAFA and Ex-Service Personnel

Call now to arrange a FREE survey and quote

Tel: 01823 729564

info@ahminstallations.co.uk • www.ahminstallations.co.uk Showroom at: Blackdown Garden Centre, A38 West Buckland, Nr. Wellington, TA21 9HY Tel: 01823 661910

THE VISITOR April 2018 19

J H Haskins & Son Limited: Nine Decades and a Fourth Generation of the Local Family Business

One of the best known retailers in the West of England, J H Haskins & Son Limited, popularly known simply as 'Haskins' has been trading for over eighty years. With firm Somerset roots, the family-owned

ACF WINDOWS

ANDY FELTHAM

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

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

20 THE VISITOR April 2018

business was founded in the late 1930s by Jack Haskins, developed and extended by John Haskins and more recently Kevin Haskins, and now, with the arrival of Jade Farthing to the business management team, celebrates its fourth generation.

Pleased to be the latest generation of Haskins involved in the family business, Jade Farthing stated: ‘It's really great to be working alongside my dad and, with some big plans for the future, I am excited to build upon the great foundations and ensure

I have a very good place for my daughter to hopefully take over one day.’

The company is also proud of its great employees, some of whom have spent a working lifetime at the Shepton Mallet firm. Rob Trott and Rob Lewis joined the company in the early 1970s, with Sue Dawson joining just over ten years later. They are familiar faces around the store and town and remember many of the changes over the years.

In the past, Haskins was first

and foremost a furniture retailer.

Today, the great furniture showrooms displaying famous brands like G-Plan, Ercol, Silentnight and Ekornes are complemented by departments selling other interior furnishings, gifts, clothing, shoes, lighting and much more. In fact, the large shopping complex is home to some of the UK's most-famous retailers, including the Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Pavers Shoes, Peacocks, Aldi and Screwfix / DIY Express.

Asked about his many years at J H Haskins & Son Limited, Rob Trott said: ‘It's been a pleasure to work here. I have seen the good and the bad, and had a lot of fun along the way.’ Rob also remembers having to use torches at work during the short working hours of 1974, caused by the national energy crisis.

Shoppers visiting Haskins Retail Centre in Shepton Mallet over the coming weeks will find the very latest Spring and Summer collections of stylish furniture, clothing, DIY, food,

wine and more. The store also has an extremely pleasant restaurant - for coffee, tea, breakfast and lunch, the Shepton Brasserie is open daily and their Sunday roasts are extremely popular.

This Spring why not take your family and friends on a shopping trip to Haskins in Shepton Mallet.

All change for Easter collection days

Easter will bring waste day changes for every household in Somerset.

Pick-ups due on Good Friday 30 March will take place on Saturday 31 March, while no collections on Easter Monday 2 April mean all that week's kerbside services are one day later, including Friday pick-ups on Saturday 7 April.

All recycling sites remain on their usual schedules, with nine sites open on Good Friday 30 March, and all 16 on Saturday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday.

Later bank holidays in 2018 – on Monday 7 May, 28 May, 27 August – will also each mean a week of one-day-later collections, including Friday pick-ups on Saturdays, but no changes for recycling sites.

Tops Day Nurseries stop milk bottle deliveries in plastic bottles, bring back the glass!

Tops Day Nurseries have made the change from using plastic milk bottles to glass bottles in a bid to protect the environment.

After checking out the overflowing recycling bin at one of our nurseries Cheryl Hadland, Managing Director of Tops Day Nurseries couldn’t help but notice the very large pile of plastic milk bottles. It is clearly costing the nurseries a lot to have all those milk bottles disposed of every week. Cheryl calculated that the nurseries were getting through quarter of a million 2 litre plastic milk bottles every year - but not anymore!

Tops Day Nurseries accommodates approximately

3000 children per day and around 250,000 2l bottles of milk per year, so one change in one group of nurseries can have an impact on plastic waste.

Tops Day Nurseries has made the move from plastic bottles to

glass bottles so that all the glass bottles can go back to the dairies to be cleaned and re-filled. Broken ones are also returned so they can be heated and re-made into more glass bottles as glass is truly recyclable. Unlike plastic, which

Waste watch: make sure you know when to put out your recycling.

THE VISITOR April 2018 21

is currently only down-cycled, usually mixing it with virgin plastic to ever poorer quality plastic until it is only fit to burn for energy, with the ash having a potential use for road building.

Milk bottles are generally made from HDPE plastic, and very little recycled HDPE plastic is included with new milk bottles (about 10% although the target by 2015 was 30%) because the recycled material currently has a green hue to it – which consumers don’t like. Along with the plastic are the labels, adhesive used, ink, seals, closure liners, closures, barrier coatings and layers!

Of course many milk bottles don’t get as far as the waste recycling – probably as few as 30%. Most go to general waste landfill and have even been exported abroad, or have been discarded by people ending up on roads, pavements and washing into rivers and the sea. Once in the water it is gradually battered into little bits where it can be eaten by and/or injure birds, fish

Sandpits Heating Centre

and mammals or ground small enough to become a microplastic and be eaten by plankton and plankton feeders until it works back up the food chain to apex feeders such as dolphins, whales and humans. The chemical additives in plastics are known to cause hormone/fertility problems in humans and some are even carcinogenic – so it’s not desirable to eat it. Many whales have beached themselves to die a painful death and are found to have a huge amount of plastic in their stomachs. The plastic that is reclaimed and can’t be made into more milk bottles can be used to create children’s toys and flower pots and fencing, for example.

By returning glass bottles we are reducing the amount of new bottles that need to be made, allowing them to be reused many times. Then once they are recycled they can be re-manufactured without any decrease in quality.

The choice is clear to me, glass milk bottles are the best choice for the environment.

Stockists of

Sandpits Heating & Home Store, Curry Rivel

By now, the weather should be getting better but this is far from certain as the recent snow flurries have shown! A woodburning or multi-fuel stove is an excellent addition to any home no matter what the time of year.

Even if, as many of us hope, the cold spells of 2018 are in the past for the time being, the fact that we are already a third of the way into this year shows that time flies by. Therefore, there is no better time than now to prepare for the autumn and winter and start thinking about making your home as cosy as possible for whenever you might need it! Sandpits Heating Centre have so many models in their newly refurbished showroom to help you decide on what would suit you and your property best.

Aarow, Charnwood, Jotul, Hwam, Clearview and Aga are just some of the stoves that they hold. Designs to suit all tastes and properties and with installation solutions which may surprise you. You don’t necessarily need a chimney, a chimney can be created with a twinwall flue, fireplaces can be

created or existing chimneys relined: all by Sandpits employed staff.

Fireplaces make a lovely focal point and can be created or customised to enable you to achieve the effect that you desire.

Focus Fireplaces offer a huge range of authentic beams and shelves to complement your stove. Sandpits can give you more information and advice about the choices available to you.

Their kitchen showroom has also just been updated and is well worth a visit. As well as stocking a range of display model cookers from Rayburn and Esse, they have a wonderful range of Aga cookware – perfect for anyone who has (or would like to have!) an Aga or Rayburn.

SJH Carpets & Flooring

SJH Carpets & Flooring are a well-established business having been started 18 years ago and going from strength to strength.

The team at SJH strive to provide their customers with the best selection of floorcoverings, blinds and shutters available, fitted by trained and motivated professionals, giving you the confidence to entrust your

Good Food Hot Baths Warm Home Come and see our new kitchen showroom display

Stockists of

- A big hit with our customers

Pictured: One of our best selling stoves

• Free home surveys • Full installation service by own Hetas engineers • Chimneys relined, fireplaces & chimneys created, twinwall flues • Chimneys swept

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

22 THE VISITOR April 2018

Clearview Stoves are a popular choice at Sandpits Heating Centre, Curry Rivel.

flooring project to them.

SJH love to keep ahead of new trends and products whilst retaining an honest, reliable and approachable service: a service that their reputation is built upon. They have a huge range of choice, from traditional carpets through to sisal, seagrass and coir, solid and engineered wood to Harvey Maria, Roger Oates Design runners, Cormar Carpets and Moduleo.

They are Amtico, Roger Oates and Crucial Trading approved and have local, employed fitters.

They are Luxaflex Blinds approved main dealer and dispose of uplifted floor coverings legally. They offer free quotations and luxury flooring of the highest quality. Their fabric department is housed in their Wincanton branch where you will find brands such as Prestigious Textiles, Art of the Loom, Design Forum and Chatsworth Fabrics.

They are a really friendly and approachable team who have a wealth of knowledge and

expertise in their fields. A visit to them is sure to be inspirational.

This month is incredibly exciting for SJH Carpets & Flooring as it sees them launch a third shop, this time in Langport!

See their advert on page 11 for more information about the launch!

SJH Carpets & Flooring in Wincanton have a wonderful fabric department to complement their range of floor coverings.

■ Carpets

■ Naturals

■ Laminates

Built in trays for walk in showers, recently installed at a property in Merriott by J2 Tiles, Yeovil. Visit their showroom on Lynx West Trading Estate, opposite Wickes. 15% off sales over 20 square metres.

■ Vinyls

■ Woods

VISIT OUR EXTENSIVE TILE SHOWROOMS

■ LVTs: Karndean,

Moduleo, Harvey Maria

+ many other manufacturers

 Quality Floor & Wall Tiles

■ Shutters and Blinds

ROLL STOCK Vinyls & Carpets now available WINCANTON FABRIC DEPARTMENT offers ...

Our

 Bespoke Curtain & Blind Service  Poles and Tracks  Cushions

 Free Measuring and Estimating Service

 Professional

& Helpful Advice

Wincanton

Chatsworth Fabrics Luxaflex Shutters & Blinds Prestigious Textiles Design Forum Fabrics Art of The Loom Fabrics

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

High Street, Tisbury, SP3 6LD  01747 871178 The Old Post Office, 38 North Street, Langport, TA10 9RH 01458 887301

15% OFF ALL SALES OVER 20sqm

 Distributors of Grespania and other leading brands  Professional fitting service  Kitchen Installations now available

 Free Measuring & Estimate  Design Advice

 Supply & Fit or Supply Only  Full Range of Sanitary Ware, Basins, Baths, etc.

CALL IN TODAY PUBLIC & TRADE WELCOME Open: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm Saturday FREE PARKING OUTSIDE THE SHOP

J2 Tiles, Unit 16, Venture 20 (Opposite Wickes)

Lynx West Trading Estate YEOVIL, BA20 2HP

 01935 472088 · www.j2tiles.co.uk

THE VISITOR April 2018 23

A new look for Spring

Family Health with

Jenna Evans

Charcoal

THIS MONTH we’re taking a look at a substance that is taking both the Skincare and supplement markets by storm charcoal.

History

Charcoal has been used for hundreds of years to support digestive health and cleanse the body from toxic substances.

It is on the World Health Organisation's List of Essential Medicines and is used in emergency healthcare to treat certain poisons ingested by mouth. Many animals seek out charcoal and self-medicate. For example, the Red Colobus monkeys of Zanzibar have a diet rich in young leaves which contain high levels of phenols and tannins (compounds produced as defence mechanisms by plants). To offset the stomach upset this can cause, these clever monkeys have taken to chowing down on charcoal from burnt tree stumps. They have even been seen to steal charcoal from the fireplaces of distracted humans! These days, charcoal is being touted as a bit of a panacea for all round bodily ‘detoxification’, to whiter teeth and clearer skin. So let’s cut through the hype and take a closer look.

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24 THE VISITOR April 2018

Adsorption Vs Absorption

Charcoal works via adsorption, that I a chemical reaction whereby elements bind to the surface of a substance. In the case of charcoal this means they are effectively neutralised and can be carried from the body in the stools. Absorption refers to elements being soaked up and assimilated as with nutrients into our bloodstream.

Types.

There are two types of charcoal to be aware of - activated charcoal and pure hardwood charcoal.

Please note the charcoal found in your grill is not medicinal and is probably highly toxic! Activated charcoal is the variety you may have seen in supplements for treating wind and bloating. Made from a variety of sources including bone char, coconut shells and peat, activated charcoal has been processed at high temperature and/or acid washed to increase the surface area, improving adsorption.

Medicinal charcoals are highly porous and full of nooks and crannies that provide a huge surface area for adsorption if you were to spread them out flat. Just one gram of activated charcoal may have a surface area of 3,000 square metres! Hardwood charcoal is produced without some of the harsh processes involved in activated charcoal and also is only sourced from hardwoods - much like the charcoal our ancestors would have been consuming. Hardwood charcoal is less porous than activated charcoal, something its proponents believe actually makes it a superior product.

Activated charcoal is often considered only for short term use as its extreme adsorbent capabilities may mean it is more likely to strip useful nutrients from the body. It is claimed hardwood charcoal does not do this and is much more selective in the removal of toxic products.

A claim that makes a lot of sense to me and I would recommend further research into the

differences between charcoals if this is an area that piques your interest!

Internal Use

I would happily recommend activated charcoal for short term use for digestive upsets, gas & bloating. Hardwood charcoal is gaining a strong fan-following for more complex digestive issues such as IBS, Crohn’s, Colitis, acid reflux, cramps, pains and yeast infections - whereby it is thought to help ‘die off’ symptoms when yeast cells release toxins during their demise. Some people have also had success using hardwood charcoal for general aches and pains, headaches and nausea when using it as a general cleansing remedy against the tide of pollution from the air, water and soil on our ever-more poisoned planet. Reducing cholesterol and treatment of trimethylaminurea (aka fish odour syndrome) are two other interesting areas of potential application.

External

Charcoal in skin care has really taken off in the last few months.

For years health bloggers have been talking about the virtues of charcoal in face scrubs and toothpastes. Thankfully many natural Skincare brands have started launching their own ranges - no more messing around with black powder in the bathroom staining your porcelain!

But does charcoal work? Can it really whiten teeth and super cleanse the skin? Well, research may be lacking but anecdotal evidence seems to suggest an overwhelming yes! I know many people who swear by charcoal toothpaste to whiten the teeth and I personally love charcoal skincare, you can really feel and see the difference in your skin’s radiance. We have some beautiful products instore at the moment so do come and take a look.

Precautions - Medicinal charcoal products are generally considered very safe with few side affects. Nausea, constipation

and black stools are the most frequent and constipation can often be counteracted by drinking plenty of fluids during use.

Charcoal can interfere with the absorption of certain drugs so as always if you are on any medication talk to your GP or pharmacist.

That’s all for this month. Join me for more Family Health musings next time.

 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.

EFT Tapping now available at Heal and Sole Holistics

Heal and Sole Holistics in Castle Cary are pleased to announce that they have expanded their range of therapies to include Emotional Freedom Techniques, also known as EFT Tapping, providing another alternative to people suffering with a wide range of conditions including addictions, PTSD, fears, phobias, pain, the effects of trauma and abuse, stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks and bereavement, as well as physical problems such as asthma, fibromyalgia and IBS. EFT is a mind/body tool that clears physical and emotional blocks from the body’s energy system. These blocks caused by the stresses and strains of everyday life, lead to physical and emotional symptoms, which over time can manifest as a disease.

EFT is one of the simplest and fastest ways to clear energy blocks and heal from almost any kind of trauma, whether it happened yesterday or 50 years ago. There are no invasive procedures, manipulation or medication involved, it is entirely natural, painless, has no side effects and is safe to use for any issue.

Advocates of the therapy say it can offer long-lasting relief and often works where other approaches fail. EFT works well for recurring problems as it tackles the root cause, rather than simply treating symptoms.

In a similar way to acupuncture, EFT aims to release both the negative emotions and unbalanced or blocked energy, by stimulating the meridian points.

Rather than using needles however, this gentle therapy uses tapping techniques.

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

A new look for Spring

Diabetes is now the fastest growing modern health crisis as cases have doubled in the last 20 years – What can we do to combat this?

The number of people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK has more than doubled in the last 20 years, according to brand new research from Diabetes UK. It’s an epidemic but new research conducted by CuraLin, a diabetic

supplement, indicates that us Brits have a significant lack of awareness of the condition, with over 2.5m Brits believing that diabetes only affects those who are overweight.

Chief executive Chris Askew from Diabetes UK said: ‘Diabetes is the fastest growing health crisis of our time and the fact that diagnoses have doubled in just 20 years should give all of us serious pause for thought.’

The Joseph Ribkoff Spring/Summer Collection is now available at Shirley Allum Fashion & Lingerie, Shaftesbury.

It’s time to face the issue; How can you prevent your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, and just as importantly, how can you manage your lifestyle if you already suffer from this? Our experts reveal their top tips…

1. Embrace nature

Nutritionist and Fitness Instructor Cassandra Barns

explains, ‘We can look to herbs and plant extracts to support balanced blood sugar levels.

CuraLin (www.curalife.co) is a specially formulated dietary sup p l e m e nt co nt a i ni ng t e n herbs and plant extracts traditionally used to support insulin sensitivity and help keep blood glucose under control.’

Ward & Sibley - Jewellers with a personal service.

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil

AS GOOD AS NEW! Our repair section of the business is pleased to offer:

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 Jewellery handmade to your own design  Seal, hand, and machine engraving  Pearl and bead re-threading

VALUATIONS for insurance and probate

For a prompt, reliable & friendly service THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

THE VISITOR April 2018 25

A new look for Spring

2. Ease the sugar cravings

Cassandra explains, ‘Sugar is quickly broken down into glucose in our blood – the type of sugar that converts directly to energy.

Our blood glucose level goes very high at this point, and this is when we feel energised. But because high levels of glucose in our blood are harmful to the body, it releases insulin, which then quickly removes the glucose and stores it as glycogen or fat. As well as causing us to put on weight, this surge in insulin often makes our blood sugar level drop too low, causing cravings for yet another boost of sugar – and so the cycle continues.’

To soothe sugar cravings for chocolate lovers swap your chocolate bar for a couple of squares of raw chocolate. ‘Raw cacao – the unroasted form of cocoa, used to make raw chocolate – is rich in nutrients including magnesium, which we need for healthy muscles and bones. One really helpful nutritional benefit of raw cacao is that it is a powerful source of chromium. Chromium is a mineral

that has been shown to reduce sugar cravings and improve insulin function in the body. For a cacao solid bar try OMBAR 90% Cacao £1.99, ombar.co.uk,’ advises Cassandra.

3. It’s all about metabolic balance

Nutrition and Weight Loss Coach, Pippa Campbell, runs a threemonth Metabolic Balance programme (£890, www. pippacampbellhealth.com) that is 100% personalised and actively supports a person’s own biochemistry and nutritional needs.

‘The Metabolic Balance Programme reduces insulin and inflammation. This is why the programme is perfect for people with Type 2 Diabetes. ‘The path to Type 2 is the constant release of insulin as a result of diets with a high glycemic load. This leads to constantly filled stores of glycogen within muscle cells and continual fat construction, which leads to a reduction of insulin receptors. In order to transport glucose into the muscle and fat cells, higher

amounts of insulin is needed (insulin resistance). Not only is Metabolic Balance a programme with low GI foods it is also completely personalised. Through blood analysis of the persons biochemistry and medical history a plan can be created with all the foods that will not cause insulin spikes. This is unique to each person with diabetes,’ explains Pippa.

4. Drink water as your primary beverage

Sticking with water for most of the time helps you to avoid drinks that are high in sugar and preservatives. ‘The sugar content of standard soft drinks is, of course, the primary reason to avoid them. But even sugar-free sweetened drinks are best avoided as artificial sweeteners and other additives they contain could have harmful effects too – even encouraging further weight gain!’ explains Cassandra.

5. Prevent diabetes with protein

‘Start each meal with a few bites of protein as this will prepare the body. Protein slows down the release of insulin, helps to balance blood sugar levels and can make you feel fuller for longer. Try eating eggs for breakfast or add some protein powder to yoghurt,’ explains Pippa.

be replaced with whole grain alternatives – or preferably, foods made from whole grains that have not been broken down into flour – such as oatcakes, dark Germanstyle rye breads, porridge or simply cooked brown rice or quinoa,’ explains Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.

7. Stay clear of stress

‘If you are stressed your blood sugar is likely to go up, take up the likes of yoga, meditation, a good hobby or deep breathing.

Also, to help keep your blood sugar levels down limit alcohol intake to no more than one glass of wine for women daily and two units daily for men per week, as alcohol increases blood sugar levels’ explains Dr Wendy Denning, in collaboration with CuraLin.

Hooper’s Hat Hire of Yeovil

For hats, hatinators or fascinators visit Hooper’s Hats in Yeovil. Sally has an extensive collection exclusive to her and if you cannot find what you are looking for, Sally can make you something for your outfit to purchase. With lots of helpful advice on offer you will find Hooper ’s a pleasurable experience. Clutch bags can also be hired to match.

V i s i t h e r w e b s i t e w w w. hoopershats.co.uk and browse through her gallery for a small sample of what is on offer or telephone to make an appointment. Tel 01935 706555.

6. Forgo white bread and baked goods made with flour

‘White breads and baked goods made with white flour such as pastries, pizza, and crumpets should be avoided. This is because they’re made from refined flour and so are quickly broken down into sugars and absorbed. In fact, some of them have a higher glycaemic index (meaning they raise blood sugar levels faster) than pure table sugar! They can

This blue and pink Ascot hat and bag are available at Hooper’s Hat Hire of Yeovil.

Hooper’s Hat Hire YEOVIL

26 THE VISITOR April 2018

01935 706555 • www.hoopershats.co.uk

A new look for Spring

Anytime Fitness, Yeovil

Anytime Fitness is a brand new and exciting 24-hour fitness club that opens the 23rd April 2018. The club will be open 24/7 365 days a year. Meaning it really is the most convenient club in town. Plus, it includes free car parking, free group exercise classes, free kick start programme, free members app and an amazing club culture with access to over 4,000 clubs worldwide.

Yeovil’s newest fitness club is located in the Quedam Shopping Centre on Frederick Place, which is on the walk way between HMV and JD Sports and can be accessed via Middle Street just as easily.

Free car parking at the Quedam Car Park is quick and easy too, when you join you’ll receive a key fob which will allow you access to the club and another to the carpark.

The carpark is a few seconds walk from our front doors and with 24hour security you’ll always feel safe with us.

Joining a new club means that you have a real say over what equipment we invest in and our class timetable. We ask our members what they want from us and we endeavour to make that possible. If we don’t have a class that suits your timetable, you can always use our virtual system which has over 700 workouts on and is available any time in our studio.

Our state-of-the-art Life Fitness treadmills let you watch Netflix while you run, and our Concept 2 rowing machines have games you can play while you row. We’re all

about finding the fun in working out and keeping you motivated even on your off days.

Our friendly team are passionate about our members reaching their goals and are on hand seven days a week for support. Whether your goals are big or small, we can help you get to a healthier place this year.

If you have any questions or you would like to come and see the club, you can call us on 01935 350247 to book a club tour and arrange your free 3-day trial. www. anytimefitness.co.uk. 4/6 Frederick Place, Quedam Shopping Centre, Yeovil, BA20 1EX.

Spring is coming to Preview, Wincanton!

Things are looking bright at Preview, Wincanton. Robell’s super colour trousers have arrived for 2018 and the range of colours does not disappoint.

These trousers are firm favourites for many ladies due to their versatility, comfort and style.

Available in full length and capri, the pastel and feminine colours for this year are stunning and, as you’d expect from this reputable brand, the quality and fit are fabulous.

Containing bengaline, these trousers are very stretchy and offer breathability so they are the ideal choice for holidays, travelling and leisure activities such as playing golf. You can also add a pair of wedges and a lovely top to create a smarter silhouette. Available in sizes 8 – 18, they start from £49.

The ideal choice for beautiful spring wedding attire, Preview has all you need to create the perfect wedding guest outfit: from hats to shoes and dresses to jackets, they have the perfect pieces for the big day. Stockists of sought-after labels such as Lizabella, Condici, Luis Civit, Tina Taylor, Michaela Louisa and Joseph Ribkoff, there is sure to be something you’ll fall in love with at Preview.

Lizabella’s gorgeous two-piece outfits are available from £315. Why search for separates when this is the perfect way to look polished?

Condici’s stunning outfits are crafted in silks and other high-end fabrics and are available in a variety of colours which will look stunning against any skin tone.

Intricate detailing such as delicate

gold threads can be found in Luis Civit’s stunning collection and Tina Taylor is a well-known label and the perfect choice for wedding or garden party guests.

Preview offer a warm welcome and a relaxed environment for you to browse and try on their extensive range. Open from 10am – 5pm, Monday – Saturday.

This stunning red and blue dress from Michaela Louisa is available from Preview Fashion Boutique, Wincanton for just £159.

Spring Wedding Collection ... for the complete outfit

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

Market Place • Wincanton  01963 31676 www.previewwincanton.co.uk THE VISITOR April 2018 27

Opera Singers from St Petersberg coming to Martock

The Guardians of Martock Church are hosting four opera singers from St Petersburg who trained in leading Russian Conservatoires and have performed in major roles in theatres, concert venues and cathedrals.

LYRA has three groups of singers who tour Britain, Europe and the USA respectively. The group coming to Martock on 26th

April, have toured Britain every Spring for several years, performing before huge audiences, but this is the first time we have been able to invite them. We did host a previous Russian group, the Blagovest Ensemble in 2005 to 2008 who earned ÂŁ2,500 as their share of the ticket sales for these three concerts attended by 290, 325 and 275 people respectively.

We believe from watching Lyra's videos on YouTube and their website that they are superior in The Lyra Singers perform at Martock Parish Church on 26th April.

quality to Blagovest. Tickets for this first concert will be ÂŁ10 on the door or ÂŁ9 from 01935 822706.

Accompanied children under 16 admitted free.

Fast Track Bridge: A new venture for learning to play bridge in the local area

Fully residential 2 bedroom lodges for sale at Long Hazel Lodges Ltd, Sparkford.

There are a number of bridge clubs in the local area giving a large number of people a wonderful hobby playing this intriguing card game and making friends in a sociable situation. This project is intended to introduce others to this game and welcome them to the bridge clubs.

With support

the Somerset from County Bridge Association we are holding a weekend of bridge tuition

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28 THE VISITOR April 2018

and supervised play at the Hall of the Sparkford Inn. A concentrated weekend such as this is a new innovative method of teaching bridge to beginners and casual players; It has been conducted successfully in London and this will be the first attempt at this in our local area. Several other clubs in Somerset are also considering this.

The course is intended for absolute beginners, casual players or ‘rusty returners’. It will involve teaching and supervised play and, although concentrated, it is intended to be fun and will involve refreshments and catering. It is taught by a County

being bridge teacher and organised by three clubs, Castle Cary, Sherborne and Yeovil.

Details can be found on the clubs’ websites or from barryjn77@gmail.com 01963 440351.

The Gartell Light Railway

The 2018 season of Open days at the Gartell Light Railway, starts on Easter Monday 2nd of April.

Subsequent Open Days are on Bank Holidays, or the last Sunday of each month with no Bank Holiday, up to the end of October. We are off the A357 between Henstridge and Wincanton: look for the signs on nearby roads.

The volunteers have been working hard over the winter, painting coaches and getting the

line tidy for the new season.

We anticipate having two steam locomotives, although the planned major overhaul of No.6 ‘Mr G’ has been delayed awaiting a special part for the boiler and may not be ready.

Previous visitors have commented how they enjoyed their day at the Gartell and as ever staff will be pleased to welcome all visitors including those who are less mobile.

Snacks and drinks are available from ‘The Pines’ 'Quackers' and 'The Bounder' are new Collector's Edition prints by Hannah Dale, available at Martock Gallery.

Framed price: £69.50.

‘Brown Hare Dreaming’

by EILEEN TURNER

Complete Framing Service Available

The 2018 season of Open Days at the Gartell Light Railway, starts on Easter Monday 2nd of April.

TIMBER | TOOLS | MACHINERY | HOBBIES | GIFTS

One of Britain’s longest running woodworking shows now with a new look!

All at

Limited edition Giclee print. Edition size 100, image size 26cm x 40cm.

Framed price:

£95.00.

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

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

WOODWORKING SHOW & SALE WITH CRAFTS | 2018 Friday 13th April (10am – 5pm) and Saturday 14th April (10am – 4pm) FREE ENTRY AND PARKING

Yandles, Hurst Works, Martock, Somerset TA12 6JU 01935 822207 • info@yandles.co.uk

Check out our website Yandles.co.uk THE VISITOR April 2018 29

refreshment room but those who bring their own can enjoy a picnic in the large grounds.

There is also a shop selling books and train models for all ages.

Fares are Adults £8.00, Seniors £7.00, Children under 14 £5.00 and family tickets (2 adults and up to 2 children) £22.00. Please see our advertisement on page 28 for details or go online at www.newglr.weebly.com.

THE BUTTERCROSS TEAROOMS

Market Place, Somerton (01458) 273168

Homemade Cakes & Scones Morning Coffee, Cream Teas Lunch Served 12 – 3pm Open: Mon – Sat 9 – 5pm

30 THE VISITOR April 2018

Rifleman Firearms

Looking to try something new this spring? Then why not try shooting!

Located on the Somerset Levels, Rifleman Firearms is home to a 90-Yard Air Rifle Range with 100’s of targets set from 15-Yards. With an onsite shop also running daily, staffed with seasoned shooters with tonnes of experience to answer your questions and help assist you! From setting up your first air rifle, to learning how to aim your first shot.

The range is weather covered, heated and floodlit, perfect for all weathers, and has disabled access on site, with toilet facilities and refreshments!

Offering the very popular ‘Have-A-Go’ session for just £25 per hour of which includes all of the essentials to get you started, including gun hire, it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new and is suitable for all the family!

If you’re already a keen shot,

then there are loads of offers and events perfect for you! The shop is home to a huge variety of brands, including Sako, Walther, Tikka, Air Arms, Remington and many many more. They are stocked with everything a shooter needs, from mounts and scopes to gun slips and cleaning gear, with expert advice on hand whenever you need it.

Events and competitions are also hosted with the chance to win medals and prizes, all whilst having fun with other shooters. All disciplines and levels are welcome to come and shoot!

If you’re looking for a unique party to remember, then why not have it hosted by Rifleman Firearms? From hen and stag parties all the way to birthday parties and corporate entertaining! They can be infinitely flexible in meeting all of your party needs.

From a simple kids birthday party to more involved

corporate entertaining with refreshments. Timings can also be adjusted to suit and whole range booking can be arranged to fit in with your own requirements!

With the famous Brown and Forrest Smokery also on site, they can offer menus if you’re feeling peckish from a simple cake to something more filling.

Riflemans Firearms will also be hosting their annual open day on May 19th, so why not join them for activities and games whilst raising money for their military based charity!

Come and try something new, or if you’re experienced, come and shop for something new!

With something for everyone, Rifleman Firearms is positive to give you the best experience, whether you’ve never held a gun before, to if you think you’re the best!

Go on, give them a shot this spring. Visit the website: www.riflemanfirearms.com or telephone 01458 253700.

MARCH ...

MUTTER SLATER Quicksilver Mail, Yeovi BLACKOUT CITY Old Pound Inn, Aller BULLET TRAIN Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse

Fri 30th Fri 30th Fri 30th

APRIL ...

Sun 1st Sun 1st

Mon 2nd Fri 13th Fri 20th Fri 20th

Sun 22nd Fri 27th

Sat 28th

SILVER LEVELS Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse SNAKEBYTE Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil ALI POPLE Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse RURAL MUSIC NETWORK Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse THE GIN BOWLERS Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse PITY THE FOO Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil PETE WAGGSTAFF BAND Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse THE TRACKS BAND Old Pound Inn, Aller HELLS BELLS Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil

Just some of the examples from the range of creative ideas you will get from the demonstration days hosted by Hansons Fabrics & Crafts.

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

Range of Nostalgia Prints £8.95 each mounted On-The-Premises Framing

High Street, Gillingham Tel / Fax: 01747 824050 email: scenesol@aol.com • www.scenes-online.co.uk

April Notice Board CASTLE CARY

WILD WILLY BARRETT'S French Connection. Unique Music Style/Masters of Live Entertainment. Saturday 28 April 18:45. Caryford Community Hall. Tickets £12 from 01963 350194 or www.wegottickets.com /event/429602.

COMPTON DUNDON

FLOWER FESTIVAL of ‘Memories’ in St Andrew’s Compton Dundon, May 26th to 28th, 10am–5.30pm. Refreshments plus Plants & Produce on sale.

Choral Evensong, Sunday 6pm, and Fair & Barbecue on Monday 1200noon–3pm.

CREWKERNE

‘CHANCE TO DANCE’ @ The Speedwell Abbey St. Crewkerne.

Tuesday 24th April 2.30-5pm.

Cream tea and live music tickets £5 from Town Hall or 01460 72417.

GILLINGHAM & MERE

WATERCOLOUR CLUB STARTS: MERE 16th April, Mondays 7.00-9.00 at the Lecture Hall. 5 sessions £75.00.

Gillingham from 19th April, Thursdays 2.00-4.00 at Vicarage School Room. 6 sessions £90.00. Creative Days: £50.00, 10.30-4.30. Drawing Day 6th April, Watercolour Still Life 12th April, Creative Printing 18th May, book in advance: www.laurajolliffe.co.uk.

MARTOCK

THE LYRA SINGERS from St Petersburg in parish church 7.30pm on Thursday 26th April singing Russian church music and folk songs. Tickets £10 on door, £9 from 01935 822706.

MERE

CARNIVAL BINGO Friday 20th April, Grove Buildings, Church Street, Mere, Wilts BA12 6DS. Doors open 6.45. Eyes Down 7.30.

Variety of prizes, Raffle & Refreshments, Fun for all the family. Organised by Mere Carnival Committee with proceeds to Carnival Funds.

Forthcoming Bingos - same time, same place 6th July, 7th September. Carnival Day 15th September 2018.

SOMERTON

MIDNEY GARDENS host their first Specialist Charity Plant Fair on Saturday 28th April (1 to 5pm)

Admission £3 benefiting the Somerton Scouts, discounted garden entry on the day. More details, list of stallholders and other fairs at www.plantfairs.com or ring 01460 242620.

ADVERTISE YOUR MAY 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 May issue, Monday 16th April.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THE VISITOR April 2018 31

FOR VISITORS TO SHERBORNE the town’s three principal attractions are undoubtedly its shops, its two castles and its magnificent abbey.

The town has certainly developed into a mecca for shoppers seeking the elegant, the unusual, the high quality, and Cheap Street, Long Street, South Street, Half Moon Street and Digby Road are packed with

32 THE VISITOR April 2018

an incredible variety of specialist traders too numerous to mention by name. It’s an ideal place to browse for the unusual – arts and crafts from all over the world, ladies designer clothes, jewellery, fancy foods, kitchenware, books, traditional and contemporary home furnishings, electrical goods, antiques and curios...the choice seemed endless when I did a spot of window-shopping recently.

But don’t let the fine array of goods distract you from looking above the shop windows, for it is there that the history of the town can be seen in the architecture. While some of the buildings date from as early as the 16th century and others are distinctly 20th century, those of the Georgian period are particularly pleasing for their symmetry, simple decoration and perfectly-proportioned bay windows. In the narrow lanes and streets away from the shops it is Georgian architecture that predominates and gives the town its air of 18th century elegance.

Sir Walter Raleigh described Sherborne as his ‘fortune’s fold’.

He had fallen in love with the place and managed to acquire the mediaeval Sherborne Castle at Castleton. He tried but failed to modernise it so he built himself a new one. The ‘old’ castle dates from the early 12th century and was largely destroyed following a siege in 1645 during the Civil War. Queen Elizabeth I had granted

it to Raleigh in 1592 but two years later he started to build his new castle on the site of a hunting lodge on the opposite side of the river Yeo. After Elizabeth’s death in 1603 Raleigh was convicted of conspiracy against her successor, James I, and incarcerated in the Tower of London until 1616.

After much legal wrangling he had to forfeit his Sherborne estate, which was bought by Sir John Digby in 1617.

The ‘new’ castle, off New Road, is south of the lake that is part of the landscaped gardens created by Capability Brown in 1753 for the Digby family. The castle was much extended in the 1620s and in 1787 into the imposing H-shaped stately home that can be visited today. There is a vast amount to see and admire, and I can do no better than quote the words of the promotional leaflet: ‘The Castle’s state rooms reflect a glorious variety of decorative styles from the great periods of English history. On display are fine

furniture, family portraits and superb porcelain representing the tastes of the Digby family for over 400 years. In the Castle’s cellars are Raleigh’s kitchen and a museum featuring relics from the Civil War, fascinating documents from the archive, family curiosities, fossils and a Capability Brown exhibition.’ And ‘gardens and pleasure grounds surrounding the 50-acre lake with sweeping lawns, borders and majestic specimen trees’. I can’t argue with that!

Both castles open to the public from April till October – for opening days, times and entry charges at the ‘old‘ castle phone the custodian on 01935 812730 or visit www.englishheritage.org.uk/sherborne; for the ‘new’ castle phone 01935 812072 or go to www.sherborne castle.com.

Sherborne Abbey is regarded by many as the finest building in Dorset. In 705 the first Bishop of the West Saxons chose to erect his cathedral on this

site and in 998 it became a Benedictine abbey. The original church was completely rebuilt and enlarged by the abbots in Norman times but some Saxon stonework survives. In the 15th century the tower and east end of the Abbey were rebuilt in Perpendicular style and the fanvaulted roof, probably the first to be built with such a wide span, is the Abbey’s most impressive internal feature.

After the dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII it became Sherborne’s parish church, and the adjacent monastic buildings became a free grammar school, the forerunner of Sherborne School.

The Abbey was extensively restored in Victorian times and it contains so much to see, from medieval glass in St Catherine’s Chapel to the 20th century stained glass by John Hayward in the Great West Window, from the remains of the medieval font in the Bow Chapel to the large Victorian font just inside the south door to the Abbey. And

monuments a-plenty, including a fragment of 12th century Abbot Clement’s tomb portrait, the 16th century altar tomb of John Leweston and his wife, and the 17th century baroque monument to the Third Earl of Bristol, John Digby, and his two wives.

Spring heralds the imminence of the annual Sherborne Abbey Festival. This year it runs from 4th to 8th May with events ranging from chamber music and choral works to big band sounds and traditional Dorset

folk dance music. Highlights promise to be Adrian Brendel (cello) and Ruth Rogers (violin) with the Iuventus Chamber Orchestra playing Bruch’s Violin Concerto No.1, Schumann’s Cello Concerto and symphonies

by Haydn and Schubert, and Sherborne Festival Chorus and Classical Players performing Mozart’s Requiem. The full programme can be obtained from the tourist information centre or viewed on www. sherborneabbeyfestival.org and tickets are available now via the

BREWERS GARAGE LTD AIR CONDITIONING • DIAGNOSTICS TYRES • MOT SERVICING • REPAIRS Telephone

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THE VISITOR April 2018 33

internet, or by post from Sherborne Abbey Festival, PO Box 6317, Sherborne DT9 9AP, or in person from the TIC. Book early to avoid disappointment, as they say.

Spring also brings another great attraction, the Sherborne Castle Country Fair. It takes place this year on Bank Holiday Monday 28th May and provides yet another reason for visiting the castles, exploring the abbey and town, indulging in a spot of window-shopping, and sampling the many tea shops, cafés and pubs. Then you will see for yourself why Sherborne attracts so many visitors from far and wide every year.

Roger Richards.

Antiques Fairs

•

Chasty Cottage Antiques

•

Saturday 7th & 28th April Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1

Simply Inspirational ...

Future Dates: Saturday 7 th April, Saturday 26th May  01963 370986

Sherborne Abbey is regarded by many as the finest building in Dorset.

Photo: Martin Mullen/Adobe Stock.

www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

Quality bathrooms & wetrooms individually designed and expertly installed

Stockists of ...

Simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms Visit our Showroom

The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, DT9 3LN (Through Archway by Half Moon Inn)

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34 THE VISITOR April 2018

www.simplybathandbed.co.uk * info@simplybathandbed.co.uk

Mendip Mobility, Street

The Jazzy Zero Turn from Pride offers amazing 4-Wheel Stability with 3-Wheel manoeuvrability.

This innovative 4-wheel scooter with a 3-wheel turning radius with the Jazzy® Zero Turn and Pride’s exclusive patent-pending, Zero Turn technology is available from Mendip Mobility.

This exceptional machine allows you to navigate tight corners and small spaces effortlessly with a 38” turning radius.

This means that you may be able to use the scooter indoors or outdoors due to its fantastic manoeuvrability. You won’t have to sacrifice style for substance with this scooter: You’ll have a choice of five contemporary, interchangeable colour options, it has a contemporary new rim design and under seat storage comes standard. The features of the Jazzy Zero Turn is as impressive: Illuminate your

ride with bright LED lighting, dual motors and CTS suspension ensure a smooth and comfortable drive and a USB charger is built into the tiller for convenient charging of smart phones and portable devices.

Its CTS suspension for comfortable long range use, it’s Delta tiller, ergonomic wraparound handles enables easy-to-use left or right hand operation and it has dual motors for added traction in rough terrain.

Mendip Mobility have a huge range of rise and recline chairs, adjustable beds, bath lifts, scooters, wheelchairs and everyday living aids. As well as their shop at 146 High Street, Street, you will also find them at 2B Paxcroft Way, Trowbridge.

Visit mendipmobility.co.uk for further information.

The Visitor

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

The Jazzy Zero Turn from Pride is available from Mendip Mobilty, Street.

Get out and about this Spring ...

Mendip with

Mobility

“Great gear to be getting on with”

We have a comprehensive range of

British Made Rise and Recline Chairs with 5 Year Guarantees Adjustable Beds Bath Lifts Scooters and Wheelchairs for Sale & Hire Everyday Living Aids  Magnifying Glasses  Walking Sticks  Blue Badge Holders  Weather Proof Covers  And More Call in to our showrooms where our knowledgeable and helpful staff will be pleased to advise!

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

THE VISITOR April 2018 35

Street Cellular

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 Tab’s normally with mobiles we try and achieve a same day turnaround - whatever the problem, from unlocking to liquid damage we can help.

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

BRIGHTS

Exciting range of gift ideas at Brights of Street - including Lily Flame scented candles and English Pewter. Pictured: James Bright.

Gold & Silver Bought and Sold also coins and collectables Jewellery – repairs, alterations, cleaning Watch Repairs Rhodium Batteries fitted – from £4 Plating Watch Pressure Testing Next Day Service Key Cutting Service

NEW Extensive Range of QUALITY GIFTS Jewellery  English Pewter  Glassware Lily Flame Scented Candles (locally made)

10a Farm Road, STREET, Somerset, BA16 0BJ Tel: 07510 926304

36 THE VISITOR April 2018

Crispin Crafts, Street

Crispin Crafts is a friendly, family run business stocking a large variety of Haberdashery, yarn, fabric and crafting items from leading brands.

It is almost two years since Trevor and Sue made the big move from the Crispin Hall, Street to their new premises in Farm Road but even now, there are still customers finding them again.

Having been in the business for so long, Sue and Trev have seen crafting fashions come and go and it is great to see the resurgence of crochet and knitting as the manufacturers of knitting yarns

launch new and exciting products.

Crispin Crafts’s new DMC (stranded threads) stand now stocks the 35 new colours, plus metallic, satin and variation threads! This comes just in time for the upturn in embroidery and cross stitch.

April will see a new range of polycottons arriving with them and a range of rug wool will be joining their rug canvas and latch hooks.

The shop at 8 Farm Road, Street, BA16 0BJ is open Monday to Saturday 9am till 4.30pm.

Visit: www.crispincrafts.co.uk - their new website – or join their Facebook page for further information!

Glastonbury

Glastonbury Tor, Somerset. Photo: vlorzor/Adobe Stock.

WE HAVE MOVED

Crispin Crafts is a friendly, family run business stocking a large variety of Haberdashery, yarn, fabric and crafting items from leading brands.

Same friendly service, different location

Glastonbury Abbey, Somerset. Photo: Christian Müller/Adobe Stock.

Call in and see our extensive range

Crispin Crafts & Haberdashery A family run business for 30 years

8 Farm Road, Street, Somerset, BA16 0BJ GIFT Vouchers

Opposite The Crispin Hall – towards Clarks Village

Tel: 01458 447655 • Email: crispincrafts@outlook.com

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THE VISITOR April 2018 37

Voysey watercolour set to sail ahead in auction

A remarkable watercolour by the renowned designer Charles Voysey is to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne.

The watercolour is called the ‘The River Rug’ and is a design for a rug which Voysey designed and which was produced at Wilton in 1903.

This rug is now in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum.

The watercolour depicts a rural river landscape with a variety of figures and houses, farms, fields and various boats on the river. The ‘The River Rug’ watercolour is a design for a rug by the renowned designer Charles Voysey.

Produced at Wilton in 1903.

This rug is now in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum.

John Hamblin, Master Cabinet Makers and Antique Furniture Restorers, are a family-run business. Find them at Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil, BA21 5HR.

John Hamblin

Bespoke Furniture Makers Furniture Restorers French Polishers

Fine furniture made to your personal requirements and specifications, including bookcases and libraries Re-leathering of desktops, bureaux etc.

Dining table tops refinished

— A family run business established for over 50 years —

Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate YEOVIL, BA21 5HR  01935 471154 • jhamblin101@gmail.com

38 THE VISITOR April 2018

backboard of the picture has a variety of labels with information about the picture, including an exhibition label. The drawing measures 52cms by 25cms.

This picture was given to George Nelson Haden, Chairman of Haden & Sons (Hadens of Trowbridge).

Haden was a friend of Voysey and also worked alongside him on various projects. He was given this watercolour as a gift and it has passed by descent through his family until now.

Lawrences Auctioneer Simon Jones said, ‘Original designs by Voysey appear very rarely in auction and we expect a huge amount of interest from collectors, especially as The River Rug is such a distinctive and acclaimed work

by him.’ The drawing will be included in Lawrences April Fine Art Sale on Thursday 12th April and it is estimated to make £30005000.

Annette Yarrow patinated bronze stallion. Number 1 of 8. Height approximately 14 inches’ Available at Quillon House Antiques, Bruton.

Two Webley pre-War air pistols. A Mark 1 (pictured in the green lined box) circa 1925, and a Webley Junior circa 1935. Available at Quillon House Antiques, Bruton.



A small Tibetan ceremonial knife inset with coral and turquoise stones, pictured with a Japanese C19th Tanto or ‘short sword’

Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm

INSTANT CASH FOR YOUR OLD TOYS! ANY TOYS CONSIDERED Established business paying BEST prices for old toys in any condition  Dinky  Britains  Corgi  Meccano  Hornby  Bing  Matchbox  Scalextric Home visits or shop valuations ... whatever suits and happy to travel

MOTOR ING

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I START THIS MONTH with my picture. I have written several times of British marques of machines making a comeback into the marketplace. Royal Enfield was a very well renown maker of motorcycles since the early years of the twentieth century. The company and the name Enfield was eventually sold to an Indian Company who continued to make a version of the Royal Enfield Bullet. Over the years the company have made many updates to these machines and now they are solid and dependable with modern refinements such as fuel injection, modern electrics and electric starting. They have sold well all over the world.

The company knew that with modern regulations only a new model could take the company forward in the long term. After many years of development they

have at last announced to the world the new Interceptor model, and that is portrayed in the photograph this time. The motorcycling press have given the new machine favourable reports and it certainly looks well thought out and put together. Selling for a very reasonable price these machines are sure to be a big hit throughout the world. Only the model name of Interceptor harks back to the British period of Enfield ownership.

The bike is a 650cc twin cylinder in the British tradition and is sure to sell well here.

Spring is now with us and the proliferation of events increases with the warmer weather expected in April. The Somerset Section have a guest speaker for their club night on the 5th. On the 14/15th will be their Cheddar Weekend from the Cheddar Football Ground. This is followed on the 21st to 24th with the Twin Dragon Run which is a four day riding experience travelling around Wales. Lastly they have their Autojumble at the Bath and West Showground on the

The recently announced Royal Enfield Interceptor.

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28th (more of this event later). The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section also have a guest speaker at their club night at East Stour on the 9th. On the 22nd they have the Hinton St Mary Run from the Hinton St Mary Cricket Club. The Dorset Section start the month with their Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 4th. Next will be the Blandford Run from the Corn Exchange, Market Place, on the 8th, and this is followed by club night at Henstridge on the 11th which will take the form of a quiz. On the 28th they return to West Stour for the Breakfast Meet and the next day they have the Bluebell Run which starts from the Recreation Ground at Okeford Fitzpaine. More details of any of these events can be had by ringing 01935-872528.

As reported above, the excellent autojumble at Shepton Mallet takes place on the 28th April. If you are keen enough there is a similar event, but much larger, including a show at the Stafford County Showground the week before. Both are very social events and a place where you meet many old friends, and have the opportunity to search for those elusive old parts. You may even find the bike of your dreams.

Both are events high on my priorty list.

The Bristol Classic Bike Show went ahead as planned in February. Numbers of attendees seemed well up to usual and the machines on display were excellent as always. The Wells Classic Club came away with the prize for the best club stand so many

congratulations to them. They have won this award previously and some inside information has told me that planning has started for next years event. That shows true dedication as they always put on a superb display. The Westlands Classic Club also had a good display of interesting machines and the various VMCC Sections were also well represented.

Early May (the 6th actually) will see the next running of the VMCC's Founders Relay Rally. This biannual event takes the form of every Section laying on a suitable checkpoint and then entrants can choose wherever they wish to start and then choose their own route to follow with the intention of visiting as many checkpoints as they wish.

This is always a popular event because as you travel around you meet different members on different machines and people going in all directions. There is no competitive element to this event, just the fun of riding wherever you wish and meeting friends.

Ever more popular these days is the idea of having a riding holiday.

It might be a long weekend or perhaps a week long break. Again you have the opportunity to make new friends and visit new places all of which can be most enjoyable.

Many VMCC Sections organise these events, including Cornwall, West Kent, Isle of Wight and Scarborough. Give it some thought to do something different this year.

You will be made most welcome and certainly find it very enjoyable.

Rod Hann.

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

Yeovil Auto Tuning  

CLASSIC CAR REPAIRS Repairs and Servicing Specialists Established 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) Caravan Storage  COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE 

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Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

THE VISITOR April 2018 39

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming

Spring restart!

Orchard Park

BEFORE SITTING DOWN TO WRITE, I looked for a few quotes that might inspire me. There are many, but mostly too long or too difficult to work in to the rest of this piece. So I am on my own with this one. April is a hugely important month; the origins of the name according to Wikipedia, probably stem from the Latin aperire ‘to open’ which tells us that it is the season when trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants open up, buds burst, shoots and blossom emerge all as dramatic as any natural event you can imagine. April is a remarkable month in so many ways, Shakespeare was born in April, Leonardo da Vinci was born in April!

What else do you need to know?

The spring equinox is past, day and night are the same for a little while then daylight is with us longer

than the night – a great relief.

March weather has been good for snow fiends but awful for gardeners with bitterly cold winds and either rain or snow. We do really need a dry month as the clay soils that dominate this area just can’t be cultivated well until they do dry out a bit. Digging wet clay is no fun and can do more harm than good; it is really worth looking at the no-dig method which involves adding wellrotted compost to the top of the soil and letting nature take its course. I thoroughly recommend Charles Dowding’s thoroughly informative and understandable books - he is the undoubted expert in this field (yes I know, weak pun!) and his web site is well worth a look www.charlesdowding.co.uk.

Last month I told you that I intended to put a new greenhouse up; well progress has been slow for

a couple of reasons. Firstly the weather has been against us, and secondly we had a problem deciding the actual position which has got to be right otherwise it won’t work.

Anyway the greenhouse is now on site, in boxes and the base is being prepared but we have missed the early sowing season. Never mind, not the end of the world and I expect we’ll catch up eventually.

Whilst we wait for spring to blossom forth, there is a bit of concern about plant damage from cold weather, including plants that have snapped or split under the weight of snow, so you might want to check woody plants now and be prepared to do some restorative pruning sooner rather than later.

Winter damage can become evident at any point up to mid-summer.

Plant of the Month

Ornamental cherries are the thing this month with such a range of shapes and sizes, colours and time of flowering (from late March to mid-May) that there is surely one for every garden. The easiest way to think of them is as Japanese garden cherries as they did originate from Japan, mostly derived from the Oshima Cherry and the Hill Cherry, and work really well in gardens.

The flowers are single, semidouble or double and most varieties produce glorious autumn colours ranging from buttery yellow, tawny orange to bright scarlet. Pruning is minimal but if it is needed then it should be left until summer so that the cuts can heal before winter. As a group of plants Prunus contribute

Prunus Tai-haku - The Great White Cherry.

40 THE VISITOR April 2018

so much to the English garden that it would be impossible to consider a garden complete without one somewhere If space is a problem, the upright almost columnar Prunus ‘Amanogawa’ will fit, Prunus ‘Pandora’ is early flowering with subtle pale pink flowers, Prunus ‘Accolade’ makes a fantastic display with rich pink and the crowning joy is Prunus ‘Tai Haku’ The Great White Cherry with its spreading habit flowering prolifically and turning a gorgeous wine red in autumn.

Jobs for the Month

There is an intensity about gardening in April; always a lot to do and not enough time to do it in and then there are the distractions with so much to take pleasure just watching. The extra daylight hours are welcome as they do allow you to relax in the garden after work or school! (Encouragement here for young gardeners!) But what first, apart from a deep breath?

Lawns need attention early in the season if they are to look any good.

Mine is full of moss undermined by god knows how many bank voles, so that the actual grass is looking a bit thin. My plan is to use a mosskiller now, either liquid or lawn sand, let the moss die back and rake it out.

The bank voles will move out when the sound of the mower becomes too much for them! Once the moss is out, if there is a lot of bare soil then rake to loosen and create a seed bed.

Sow at about 35g per sq m, rake over lightly and firm in. Water if the soil is dry and germination should take place within 10 to 14 days depending on soil temperature.

A lawn that is not too bad will benefit from a complete lawn treatment such as Evergreen Complete which will kill the moss, kill the weeds and feed it! It is a good investment which should last most of the summer.

With all the pruning out of the way, feeding and mulching climbers, roses and other shrubs and perennial plants is vital if you want them to perform well this year. Slow release feeds are best, and the magic mulch can be anything from well-rotted garden compost or manure to bought in compost or bark chippings.

Check all trees and shrubs – including roses – are firm in the ground. Winter winds may have caused windrock damage to the roots which can cause a plant to struggle and even fail later in the summer.

Meanwhile, back in the shrubbery,

prepare to prune the early flowering plants (Forsythia and the like) as soon as they have finished flowering so that the new growth has time to form and produce new flower buds for next spring.

More and more people are having a go at grow your own, starting with seeds and seedlings. The garden centres offer young vegetable plants that are ready to plant out as well the fantastic range of seeds in packets that excite the eye with visions of perfect produce. Vegetable gardens do need to be prepared, forked over to remove the tough perennial weeds and kill the fresh weed seedlings. Manure and the lime should have been added over winter, but it’s not too late if you have good composted organic matter available.

Best not to do this in seed beds as you can attract the slugs, but fine where you are planting out potatoes, onion sets or transplanting vegetable plants or sowing larger seeds such as peas and beans.

Herbaceous borders will be showing growth, so make sure that you have plant supports ready for taller growing varieties. Growthrough supports such as the large metal circles or cut hazel twigs, need

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

to be in place before the plant grows through! Other systems such as the curved wire frames, link stakes, or canes can be used as needed.

Fruit trees and bushes will be in blossom – and vulnerable to late frost – if they are small enough to cover with fleece then it could make the difference between crop and no crop.

Robotic Mowers from Lee Holmes Independent Garden Machinery, Somerton

Spring! A season of growth. A time of change. The season of new beginnings. As the temperatures creep up, so too the grass grows at a speed that may feel unmanageable at worst and tiresome at best. The precious free time we get is surely not to be spent on the relentless pursuit of curbing the green stuff, particularly in days of better weather.

A robotic mower could be the answer. Why not embrace the opportunity to make a change and check out Husqvarna’s impressive range? Since 1995 Husqvarna have been developing their original Automower robotic mowers which give you maintenance-free operation,

minimum service and beautiful results.

Modern day technology can be intimidating and the last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed or daunted by a tool that’s designed to make your life easier. Perhaps you feel nervous about installing the mower, programming it, choosing a model that has the capacity to tackle the entirety of your lawn, or worry that you won’t be confident enough to install the software updates when the time comes. Lee Holmes Independent Garden Machinery of Somerton offer a package that can allay these fears and allow you to enjoy the product at its fullest. A Husqvarna main dealer, Lee can sell, install and service their robotic mowers, leaving you to sit back, put your feet up and enjoy your immaculately manicured garden without lifting a finger.

Contact Lee Holmes on 01458 274261 or visit him at Unit 15 Cary Court Somerton Business Park, Bancombe Road, Somerton TA11 6SB. Sales, service, repairs and parts, all from a local, family run business with a longstanding reputation, traditional values and expertise in their field.

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

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

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LEE HOLMES Garden Machinery 15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, SOMERTON 01458 274261 • www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk

THE VISITOR April 2018 41

Sandhurst Garden Design, Yeovil

Yeovil based garden designer Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design had a very busy 2017. Julie designed a variety of gardens and planting plans for clients, and already has several projects planned for this Spring.

Last August Julie exhibited a show garden at Taunton Flower Show and was awarded a gold medal for her design and presented with the Western Daily Press Cup for the Best

The gold winning show garden at Taunton Flower Show 2017 by Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design.

Show Garden. Julie's garden featured a stunning willow sculpture made by local artist Elaine Marks of Martock.

This summer Julie has been selected to exhibit a show garden at BBC Gardeners' World Live in June at the NEC, Birmingham and plans to submit a design for Taunton Flower Show in August to defend her title!

For both gardens Julie is being sponsored by Bee Hive Toy Company of Lopen and Bee Hive Storage of Taunton and will be collaborating again with Elaine Marks to create a magical garden.

This will be a return visit for Julie to Gardeners' World Live as in 2016 she exhibited a border design entitled Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree, taking gold for her design and the award for Best Interpretation of the Theme.

If you are considering a project for your own garden, or would like some advice on a planting plan, then contact Julie on 07899 710168 who will be happy to talk over your requirements.

Moggs of Wells

Moggs of Wells offer genuine, impartial and enthusiastic advice about a wide range of garden machinery from several manufacturers, so that you can make the right choice for your particular needs.

They believe they stock the best quality machines available which will give you reliable and faithful service for many years.

All new machines are fully assembled by them, including petrol and oil, and are properly tested before they leave their workshop.

Moggs can deliver your new machine if required, and give you a full explanation of the controls, and how to get the best out of your new purchase.

Their fully equipped workshop can service your machine, carry out repairs, and perform any warranty work required, so you may rest assured that when you walk out of their showroom, you walk into their care.

It is their prime objective to keep your garden machinery properly serviced so that it is a pleasure to

use and will work to the best of its ability.

Their workshop is filled with an array of tools and specialist equipment to keep your machine in top condition. Moggs have direct access to manufacturers’ Service & Parts Manuals, Service Bulletins and all the latest technical information – in addition, they regularly attend various Service Courses and Dealer Days to ensure that they know the best ways to service and repair your machinery.

Unless out of production, they always use genuine parts – quality without question.

Thorngrove Garden Centre

Thorngrove Garden Centre is a hidden gem on the outskirts of Gillingham, now owned by social enterprise, Employ My Ability, who have a history of outstanding work and customer service at their Walled Garden, Moreton. Ambitious plans for 2018 are already in full swing including a retail area and cafe.

EMA create a specialist, practical SEND teaching environment dedicated to helping students gather

A traditional garden centre in the heart of Gillingham, owned by EMA who create a specialist, practical SEND teaching environment dedicated to helping students gather vital skills, expertise and confidence.

VISIT THORNGROVE GARDEN CENTRE FOR • A friendly welcoming environment • Our new secret garden café • Expert advice and gardening tips • Affordable plants, shrubs and trees • New season roses and fruit • Unique gifting ideas in our shop • Tree and planter hire for special occasions

Common Mead Lane, Gillingham SP8 4RE. Tel: 01747 822 242 Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 9-5, Sun 10-5 (Closed Easter Sunday) 42 THE VISITOR April 2018

www.thorngrovegardencentre.co.uk

vital skills, expertise, confidence and qualifications; providing a pathway into employment within the local community.

It’s not only its social credentials that makes Thorngrove Garden Centre stand out from the crowd, it’s the quality of the products and highly experienced yet warm, welcoming service provided. The majority of plants are grown from young plant plugs and cuttings with roughly 90% of the plants available to buy being grown and nurtured on site. These healthy plants are grown in biologically-controlled greenhouses, by a team of professionally qualified horticulturalists, each with many years’ experience, and EMA students themselves. The staff are experts, the plants are well cared for and come at a very affordable price.

Under the new ownership, the site is embarking on an exciting and inspiring programme of regeneration, which will include a new Secret Garden Café (to open in Spring 2018), a revamped shop providing unique gifting ideas and

space for a series of complementary local businesses. The Thorngrove Garden Centre is definitely one to watch for 2018 and we would highly recommend a visit!

To keep up to date with the latest developments you can follow Thorngrove Garden Centre on Facebook (@Thorngrove GardenCentre), Twitter (@ThorngroveGC) and Instagram (@thorngrovegardencentre).

Thorngrove Garden Centre, Common Mead Lane, Gillingham SP8 4RE. Tel: 01747 822 242.

Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 9-5, Sun 10-5. Closed Easter Sunday. www.thorngrovegardencentre.co.uk.

Cub Cadet at Ben Johnson Garden Machinery, Shaftesbury

Cub Cadet is an increasingly wellknown brand but you may not know that it dates back to 1960.

International Harvester started IH Cub Cadet, a line of small tractors built using components from their previous Cub series tractors. IH later sold the Cub Cadet division to the MTD

corporation, which took over production and use of the Cub Cadet brand name.

During the 1960s, the IH Cub Cadets were marketed to the owners of homes with large gardens and a range of additional attachments were available including mowers and front loaders. In 1963 they launched the first model with a drive shaft and in 1966 released the world’s first garden tractor with hydrostatic drive followed by the ‘cadet’ lawn tractor in 1972. In the 1908s, the first super garden tractor and first two-cylinder engine hit the market.

Cub Cadet has set a new quality standard in mowing and garden tractors, launching the first steerable snow thrower with track drive and the first lawn tractor with a drive shaft. They launched four-wheel steer zero-turn riders with steering wheel technology (the first and only in the world) in 1990, introducing Zero-turn technology to the residential market. Zeroturn manoeuvrability with steering wheel control over all four wheels means you get unmatched stability

on steep and diverse terrain and anywhere else.

In 2005, Cub Cadet launched the 500 series lawn tractors – made in Germany – and in 2006 introduced commercial vehicles.

They introduced ‘syncro-steer’ technology in 2007 (another industry first) and the smallest turning radius in the industry in 2009.

2010 – 2011 saw them celebrate innovation with the most advanced residential zero turn with LP technology, and Cub Cadet continue to progress and develop today. Forward-thinking and always striving to improve, Cub Cadet build on their experiences, implement their innovations effectively and seek to evolve in accordance with the needs of homeowners, gardeners and landscapers.

Experience quality, top performance and progress with Cub Cadet. Available from Ben Johnson Garden Machinery of Shaftesbury. Wincombe Business Park, Unit 17d, Shaftesbury SP7 9QJ. Call 01747 851021.

The size you need ... the performance you want

The CubCadet series delivers on reliability – competitively priced too!

FORCE series LR1 NR76 Hydrostatic 30-inch cut CubCadet engine OHV 420cm3 3-in-1 option*

LAWN TRACTORS LT1 NR92

£2,199

ZERO TURNS

CUB CADET ZERO TURNS Cutting Decks from 42”-72”

BenJohnson From

£3,999

36-inch cut CubCadet engine OHV 420cm3 3-in-1 option*

XT series

£1,999

XT Collecting Series XT1 38cm turning circle (XT2 17cm Turning circle)

From

£3,179

the choice between mulching and discharge. * 3-in-1 option means that you haveYou also have the option to buy an additional grass bag as an accessory.

GARDEN MACHINERY

Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 • www.benjohnsonmowers.com THE VISITOR April 2018 43

Three Counties Landscape and Tree Services and The Market Garden

The Market Garden, Castle Cary.

With 30 years of experience, Julian Shave and his NVQ certified team offer a range of services including walling, water features, patios, tree

Full ground preparation and laying service available

The Farmhouse, Somerton Door, SOMERTON, TA11 6JA Tel / Fax: 01458 272091 www.evergreen-turf.co.uk • info@evergreen-turf.co.uk

All types of Fencing

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

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

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

TELEPHONE 01747 840752

Three Counties Landscape and Tree Services

Project Design & Advice

 Soft Landscaping – Turfing, Flower Beds, etc.  Hard Landscaping – Patios, Driveways, etc.  Garden & Estate Management  One-Offs or Regular Maintenance Lawncare, Beds, Borders, Trees, Shrubs  Now incorporating Three Counties Tree Services Ltd. Tree Removal, Coppicing, Pruning, Planting, etc.  New Builds and Garden Design  Commercial Floral Displays  Plant Search & Supply

planting, pruning and lawn care. Julian and his team can supply you with an appropriate planting scheme for your garden and are also able to source rare plants.

The Market Garden in Castle Cary supplies the town and surrounding area with fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, house plants, planted pots, fruit baskets and gardening gifts.

The shop is open 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, pop in and pick up an order form or call 01963 350650 to make your order or inquiry over the phone.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

PLANT WORLD For the best plants!

For all your gardening needs

Do Call In • Open 7 Days a Week • Ample FREE Parking

Milton On Stour, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5QA Tel: 01747 824015

The Market Garden Delicious Fresh Fruit & Vegetables

 Veg’ Box Delivery Scheme Within 5 mile radius of Castle Cary and Wincanton  Bedding Plants / Hanging Baskets

 Floristry Bouquets, Weddings, Funerals, FREE Local Delivery  Fruit Baskets to Order ...and much more!

Hart House, Fore Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BQ

Office: 01963 350650 • Quotes: 07738 524254 • www.threecountieslandscaping.co.uk

44 THE VISITOR April 2018

The

Pub Pages

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

CHEERS TO THE TIPPLE! Thus reads a headline of an article by Dr Michael Mosley in a recent Radio Times magazine. He goes on to give various statistics regarding the health of drinkers and non-drinkers, but particularly of those who drink (up to) the recommended maximum amount.

What is the maximum recommended maximum amount though? I'm not going to bore you with all that again, other than to say that virtually every country in the world that expresses an opinion on this have different levels. Are different nationalities really that different in their make-up? When it comes right down to it, do people take that much notice of 'experts'? I would answer in the negative, although it is interesting to note that alcohol consumption continues to fall year-on-year, despite what is thrown at us by the media that we're all a bunch of binge-drinking alcoholics. Perhaps we can invent a conspiracy theory here: the nay-sayers have done their bit to smoking, and now they are attacking the drinker.

Just my opinion of course.

Cider has made a major come-back in the last few years. Why has this happened you may ask, well there are two reasons if CAMRA cider commentators are to be believed. The Campaign for Real Ale has long championed the artisan producer of cider and perry as well as ale of course,

but the main mover in this trend may have come in the unlikely shape of commercially-produced cider, particularly Magners. Sampling the odd pint of fizzy near-cider and its ilk could have sparked interest in the real thing. Perhaps the drinker sees other products about - maybe just by driving down the road and seeing the farm signs. Perhaps a case of when the student is looking, the mentor appears? I have to admit at cringing when I see the advertisements on the haunted fish-tank extolling the virtues of high-volume cider. Apart from the wrong use of expressions such as 'traditional', 'genuine', 'cider-makers skill' etc, I have it on good authority that it may contain as little as 30% apple juice, the rest being made of water and (dare I say it) chemicals.

That same authority always refers to it as 'near-cider', understandably.

There is even an unsubstantiated rumour that one of these 'traditional Irish ciders' is made from English apple juice, tankered to Ireland for the purpose of turning it into this fizzy stuff. True cider is made by pressing apples and letting the juice ferment, the yeasts that cause the fermentation coming from under the skins of the apples. That's it; pure and simple every time.

Still on the subject of cider, last month we gave a mention to 'The Foresters Arms' at Holywell near West Coker and not far off the A30. Since then we paid another visit to play skittles and enjoy their lavish supper.

Landlady Shirley knows how to spoil us - she also knows how to spoil the cider drinker with up to 27 specialist and artisan ciders available. The menu board for same is substantial, and all the ciders are there to see. Shirley is even planning the creation of a specialist area named 'Tom's Cider Bar' I believe. If you are into cider then this is definitely a venue to add to your itinerary - just make sure your driver

is one who is not a drinker! Amongst the beers available that evening were Charles Wells Bombardier which was definitely marked up by yours truly on the CAMRA 'WhatPub' site as top condition. Have you looked at that web-site? Unbiased views of your favourite pub, as surveyed by members of CAMRA. .

Last month we continued our attack on champagne and the hype that goes with it. I'm slightly surprised that reaction was not so biased in my favour as I expected, although the reaction was more just neutral than fervently anti. Generally it was 'Yeah, whatever' type of reaction. Only two responders thought champagne was 'lovely' or 'wonderful', although one thought that the only thing that made it exciting was the 'pop of the cork'!

I guess those of us who can be described as the mature generation have heard and used the expression 'Pell Mell', meaning 'confused rush, disorderly, mingled confusion' etc.

Some think it came from the London area of Pall Mall, but it would appear this is not the case. Pall Mall itself is named after a 17th Century ball game.

It may have been introduced to England by Charles II or possibly James I, and was already popular in Scotland and France. Similar to croquet, the court or 'alley' needed to be both long and narrow. Indeed, in his excellent book 'Played at the Pub', Arthur Taylor believes this alley was some 1,000 yards long, and was played

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

ADRIAN & KATE INVITE YOU TO

THE NATTERJACK INN FREEHOUSE

by driving a small ball with a wooden mallet, the object being to be the one to complete the distance in the least number of strokes, finishing by 'lofting it up thorough a hoop on a pole'.

Confusingly, in 1661 Samuel Pepys saw the Duke of York playing what he described as 'PeleMele' but by July 1665 he referred to the game and the area as 'Pell Mell'. Maybe he had spent rather too much time drinking before making the diary entries, or had he been corrected by others? Whatever the game was about, sadly we have to condemn it to obscurity along with other lost games such as bumble puppy, tipcat, knur and spell and tipsy!

As a footnote to this the word 'Mall' came to represent a street that was long and narrow and as shops were added, over the centuries the word came to mean an area for shopping.

Hence we often now use the term 'Mall' for an out of town shopping precinct, although I believe we gave the word to the Americans who appear to have 'kindly' let us have it back. There are some people who pronounce the word as 'maul', so please do feel free to correct them... but do it gently!

It will not have gone unnoticed to my reader over the years that I have a bit of an interest in skittles. I have spates of researching to come up with interesting facts like: 'There is only one skittle alley in the whole of Cheshire', or 'there are just two alleys in the whole of Scotland, and they are 10-pin - but definitely skittles - and

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

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

Now serving

SUNDAY ROAST DINNERS 12noon – 4pm

Choice of four roasts and a reduced main menu

Ever-changing specials board & real ale selection

EXCELLENT ACCOMMODATION

9 EN-SUITE LETTING ROOMS Disabled Access - Viewings Welcome

The cider menu at The Foresters Arms, Holywell.

Maintained 4 Star AA Rated Rooms & recommended for food quality The Natterjack Inn, nr. Evercreech Junction, Evercreech, Somerset, BA4 6NA Closed Sunday Evenings

Email: natterjack@btconnect.com Website: www.thenatterjackinn.co.uk

Telephone: 01749 860253 or Facsimile: 01749 860757

THE VISITOR April 2018 45

are situated in the same pub'. I'd like to think that these can be disproved and that there are scores of them in every county! Recently I was sent a link to an online BBC archive for the programme 'Nationwide', which again, people of a certain vintage will recall with relish. Effectively a news programme, there was main news and then, predictably, it went 'Nationwide' to the regions. The link led to 'The Bull' at Ilchester, where the skittle team had been having a disastrous run of games, being regular pin-fodder for the rest of the league.

However, turning to alternative strategies they all took to wearing fancy dress and their luck changed.

All very amusing. Some of that dress worn some 45 years on would now be classed as 'offensive', which makes me wonder if things are not regressing to the Victorian age, or perhaps it is because society is becoming less tolerant, and I think that's a crying shame.

P.A.Baxter. skittlealley@hotmail.com

The Firehouse, Curry Rivel

Passionate about creating homemade, fresh food using the finest local ingredients, the Firehouse, Curry Rivel is a delectable dining destination. This award-winning village pub that has been lovingly restored with a modern twist yet full of traditional charm.

On Easter Sunday (1st April) The Firehouse has a truly mouth-watering menu. See their ad below for details.

Be sure to book your table and there will be chocolate eggs for all the family!

Following that, why not challenge the whole family to Quizza night (pizza and quiz) Easter Sunday, 1st April, at 7pm. Entry is £2, maximum team of 6, or why not choose a pizza, house pint or glass of house wine & entry into quiz for just £12? Fab prizes to be won! Top prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Booking is essential, don’t forget your pen! And if you can’t make this one, don’t despair! A quiz takes place at The Firehouse the first Sunday of each month.

Their drinks menu is fantastic and includes cocktails such as their very own Mocha Mudslide! From Monday to Thursday, 6pm – 7pm, you can join them for their Cocktail Power Hour: buy one get one half price on all cocktails. The Firehouse offer delicious eat in or take away wood-fired pizzas, Murder Mystery Dinner Parties, a private dining area for celebrations and events, live music, rugby on screens, happy hour from 4pm – 6pm daily (£1 off every pint, £1 off every glass of wine, £1.50 off all house doubles), plus Early Bird Dinners are available Monday to Friday 5:45pm – 6:45pm!

Call 01458 887447 for bookings and reservations or visit their website or Facebook page for further information about menus, offers and events!

46 THE VISITOR April 2018

Welcome to

Aller • Langport TA10 0RA

DELICIOUS FOOD SERVED DAILY Lunchtimes and Evenings

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

 SUNDAY CARVERY – £9.50  Friday 30th March: LIVE MUSIC with ‘Blackout City’ (Acoustic) Sunday 1st April:  EASTER SUNDAY CARVERY (Booking advised)  Sunday 22nd April: QUIZ NIGHT Friday 27th April LIVE MUSIC with ‘The Tracks Band’

 01458 250469 E: info@oldpoundinn.com www.oldpoundinn.com

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

IN SPARKFORD ... Hobgoblin is a tasty pint at The Sparkford Inn ... Traditional Sunday Lunch available at The Marston Inn, Marston Magna ... enjoy the fantastic views whilst dining at The White Post, Rimpton ... the Sunday Carvery is popular at The Teddy Rowe, Sherborne ... charity Quiz Night on the last Wednesday of the month at The George ... American-style burgers are a popular choice at The Half Moon Inn ... you’ll find a good range of real ales at The Digby Tap ... and plenty of period features at The White Hart Inn where it’s open mic’ night on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

Heading off to Yeovil we find Mutter Slater and his band at The Quicksilver Mail on 30th March ... delicious food served in comfortable and tasteful surroundings at The Kings Arms, Montacute ... real ale drinkers are well catered for at The Crown & Victoria, Tintinhull ... wheelchair access at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock where well-behaved dogs and children are welcome ... if you fancy a break, Coffee & Cake is on offer at The Volunteer, Seavington St Mary ... you’ll find a choice of gluten free dishes available on the menu at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton ... great selection of real ales, ciders and lagers at The Barrington Boar, Barrington ... and if you’re looking for a nonalcoholic beverage, Rose Lemonade is served at The Kitchen, Ilminster, where you are sure of a friendly welcome.

Travelling back along the A303 we find it’s Quiz Night on Monday 9th April at The Red Lion, Babcary ... Star Wars - The Last Jedi is the movie for Film Night at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham on Wednesday 11th April ... Directors Best Bitter, a tasty guesting ale at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury ... if you’re taking a well deserved break this Easter there are 9 comfortable en-suite letting rooms at The Natterjack, Evercreech Junction ... the burgers served at The Nog Inn, Wincanton are legendary ... and finally ... with children home from school over Easter, visit the play area at The Hunters Lodge Inn, Leigh Common where food is served all day.

The Visitor

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

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

Come mothers and fathers Through out the land And don't criticize What you can't understand Your sons and your daughters Are beyond your command

THE FIRST person to tell me the song above gets a free drink. Last month Ian Rendell from Yeovil correctly guessed that the Song was Elvis Costello and I can’t stand up for fallin down.

Well it’s going to be all change here at the top of the hill…no, don’t start smiling I aint going anywhere, but our Chef of 4 years Liam Hayter is moving on to pastures new. I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for all his hard work and to wish him well in his new venture. That’s the bad news and the good news is that we have a new Head chef joining us by the name of Sara Fernandez. Sara comes highly recommended. She is passionate about what she does and I am sure she will be a great addition to the team here at the top of the hill. Just a pity about the Landlord  We have lots of things going on here over the next few weeks and now that the light evenings are upon us it should make for some great times. On Bank holiday Sunday April 1st we have a free gig in the function room with the fabulous SNAKEBYTE doors open at 8pm so come on down it’s a day off on the Monday  Friday 20th of April we have a fantastic Foo Fighters Tribute show with PITY THE FOO, tickets are £5 each and available from the Pub. On Friday we have a gig in the bar with Michael Mochan making his debut here at the pub. On Saturday 28th April we have HELLS BELLS making a welcome return probably one of the Best AC/DC shows around, tickets are £10 and available from the pub.

Looking ahead to next month on Friday the 4th May we Have BOWIE FASHION who filled the place last time they played here and they are well worth the walk up the hill, tickets are £5 and available from all good pubs  . Finally believe it or not this month sees the 16th anniversary of yours truly taking over the good ship Quicksilver and to help me celebrate and you lot commiserate we are having a super free gig on Sunday May 6th with a band all the way from Bristol called FLASH HARRY they played the same date last year and were such good fun we thought we would ask them again Doors open at 8pm Hope to see you there.

Toot Toot!!! 

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

the end bit...

MOST OF THE sports coverage in the Monday issue of the Western Daily Press is in a supplement rather than on the final few pages of the main paper, but the back page always carries some sports news and publicises the supplement. As it did in the 5th March issue. At the top of the page was a picture of the front page of the supplement with the big bold caption ‘Today’s 20-page pull-out featuring top action’.

Sadly the previous Saturday’s snow had played havoc with sporting events, leaving only enough action to fill a 12-page pull-out. I would have expected someone to have noticed the error before the paper went to press.

Back in early January the Monday to Friday cover price of the Western Daily Press was increased by 5p from 80p to 85p, which equates to 6.25%. At the time the editor wrote that ‘our Saturday paper will go up later in the year too’, and so it did in early March – a massive 20% increase from £1.50 to £1.80. In the 10th March issue the editor promised a bigger and better Saturday paper with some new columnists and longer sports, antiques and dining-out features.

‘Quality writing and quality photography which we believe culminates in the great value newspaper you have in you hands right now,’ he bragged. But I wonder how many people will be willing to fork out a lot more money for a paper that might well be bigger but is probably not better if they’re buying it for the news and have no great interest in sports, antiques or restaurants.

I’m not convinced that the price rise will boost the publisher’s income to any great extent, particularly as it is still offering a 40% discount on the cover price for the first 13 weeks and 20% thereafter to readers who buy the paper on subscription (payable by direct debit, in advance).

Although pre-tax profits at Trinity Mirror, publisher of the Western Daily Press, grew to £81.9 million in 2017, an increase of £5.4 million over the previous year, revenue fell 12.6% to £623.2 million largely through declining print advertising sales. The group delivered cost savings of £20 million during the year, but as I

noted in last month’s column, cost-cutting has already had a detrimental effect on the Western Daily Press and Western Gazette, judging by the decline in standards that have been reported ad infinitum in this column.

Indeed, you might recall that in last month’s column I criticised the Western Daily Press for pasting chunks of text in the wrong place within a story. The Western Gazette is not immune to a similar shipshod practice, inserting text from a different and unrelated story. The 15th March issue carried a court report of a motorist accused of threatening to kill his neighbour and of dangerous driving which resulted in a collision at Lydford-on-Fosse.

It quoted at length the judge’s comments when passing sentence but somehow managed to slip in a strange sentence (pictured below) which reads like a headline for an entirely different report.

As usual, nobody spotted the error, corrected it and asked themselves how it happened.

Chronicler.

Solution to March

Sudoku

Sudoku will return next month.

THE VISITOR April 2018 47

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM

Logs

Barn Stored Seasoned

HARDWOOD LOGS

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

Check our website for COMPETITIVE PRICES ... FREE DELIVERY

Tel: 01458 251529 • Mobile: 07789 204232

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

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

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

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

May issue deadline: Monday 16th April • 01963 351256

Builders

Dave Hoddinott FULLY QUALIFIED BUILDER - ESTABLISHED 1973

• Renovations & Extensions • Roofing + Carpentry • Plumbing & Heating • Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling • Painting & Decorating • Electrical Contracting Competitive Prices - No Job Too Big or Too Small FRIENDLY & RELIABLE SERVICE

Tel: (01963) 440256 The Visitor

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

Domestic Appliances

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

Transport & Storage

Roofing

24 hour emergency call out

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? CALL  Computers-R-Us on 00000 000000 PROMOTE your BUSINESS HERE ...  01963 351256

Locksmith

ANYTIME LOCKS

24-Hour Locksmith Key Cutting and Boarding Up

MOBILE 07709 433922 PHONE 01963 359516

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

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

Bourton Roofing Co.

Say you saw it in The Visitor

48 THE VISITOR April 2018

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 May Issue is Monday 16th April

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

Oven Cleaning

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Covering Somerset and Dorset

Mister Oven Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

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

Say you saw it in The Visitor

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

Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES

Competitive rates for all your plumbing needs

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

01963 441232 07971 676111

Caricatures for Special Gifts

(for 3cms x 2 column)

Tel: 01963 351256 – to book your space

Fire & Security Alarms

THE VISITOR April 2018 49

Classified Ads

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

For a Box Number please add £2.

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

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

Prize Crossword No. 378 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BP – to arrive by Friday 13th April.

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

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

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

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

Wanted

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

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

Daves Tools, Est. 1989. Tel: 01935 428975 R E D U N D A N T M O T O R M O W E R S , rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844 POSTCARDS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. Tel: Clive 01749 675456

ALL SPORTS PROGRAMMES and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456 HELP! AUTO ELECTRICIAN needed to complete car restoration for grumpy old man. Phone with courage! Sparkford Area. 01963 441077 O L D M O T O 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

DEADLINE for May Issue is Monday 16th April

Personal

www.country-link.org.uk COUNTRY LINK SOCIAL GROUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918

JUST SOMERSET INTRODUCTIONS. Bringing people together. Call Alison Tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk GENUINE Heterosexual male would like to meet male/female for socialising.Text: 07929066821

Services

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

VIBRATIONAL THERAPIST, colour, crystals, flower essences, spiritual coaching with counselling skills, oracle card readings with guidance. Tel Marie: 07582 883842

Situations Vacant

Experienced Considerate Carer / Companion / Cook / Driver. Call Elizabeth on 01963 370906 or 07895 727127.

Email address: drivingmisslizzy @gmail.com. Excellent references and (DBS/police checked)

Catering / Mobile Bars

WOULD YOU LIKE to tell your life story?

Contact Mandy Bloom, professional memoir writer, on telephone 01458 223251 or via enquiries. mandybloom@gmail.com

GARDENER / PLANT INSTALATIONS / MAINTENANCE Join the Superplants team for a varied opportunity. 01963 34842 or info@superplants.co.uk for application form HARRY’S MOBILE BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

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50 THE VISITOR April 2018

Across:

1. Real bag arranged for branch of mathematics. [7] 5. I am so foxed to begin, finding a member of a secret society. [7] 9. Penetrating wound. [4-3] 10. Bare spectrum hides esteem.

[7] 11. ‘umble nine in constabulary.

[3,2,4] 12. Teens are very taut. [5] 13. Partly spun or thrown towards the pole. [5] 15. Peter held hoar-frost around the outside. [9] 17. Son is surrounded by arts of malicious fire-raisers. [9] 19. African mammal is correct with a greek letter. [5] 22. Eater in red confusion. [5] 23. Sailor, passed on about Tom, gave up position. [9] 25. In a well-known manner, only Ted arranged. [7] 26. Observed without cake decoration. [7] 27. Albert ache arm oddly in the Old Testament. [7] 28. Holy man goes on horseback with paces. [7]

5. Torn rag inside me spread.

[5] 6. Post me fat quickly! [9] 7. Canoe disturbed a lot of water. [5] 8. Rout with awe, have too long.

[7] 14. 1% in nine letters. [9] 16. Team in tears, those living there. [9] 17. Extras finish article after a bishop. [7] 18. Legislator with sore tan. [7] 20. Digestive aid can’t be sorted.

[7] 21. Salts: Does Idi get muddled?

[7] 23. A bottomless pit by Sam. [5] 24. Provide food for pussy and the queen. [5]

Solution to Crossword 377

Down:

1. Sign after bad muddle with the belly!. [7] 2. New arrival confused Rene with Reg. [7] 3. Short firm in forbiddance of pig-meat. [5] 4. Insect makes off with pronghorns. [9]

The Winner of our March Crossword Was Roger Price of Yeovil, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock.

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