The Visitor Magazine Issue 485 April 2024

I n P assin g ...

In countless small ways Visitorland changes day by day, and over the years these add up to a massive change in the face of our towns, villages and landscapes. And there is seemingly an insatiable public demand for albums of archive photographs, judging by the number of ‘then and now’ picture books in the shops and the growing interest in collecting old postcards. Not only do such images revive nostalgic memories, they also provide social historians with a vast amount of detail about the way life was lived in bygone years.

It is not just the images of buildings and people that bring the past alive but also the detail they contain – the trades being plied, the vehicles on the streets, the clothes people were wearing and the activities and events in which they were involved. Not only do such images revive nostalgic memories for older Visitorland residents, they have the power to intrigue and fascinate newer residents too. And young people, for whom bygone years include part of the 21st century.

But each old photo only exists because someone with a camera chose to take it and keep it. In late-Victorian and Edwardian times, before telephones became widespread, picture postcards were the common method of communication and postal deliveries were sometimes made three or more times a day. Numerous businesses were created to take the photos, print the postcards and market them. Nowadays more photos are being taken than ever before, thanks to digital technology. Cameras incorporated into mobile phones give instant results – no waiting for days while the film is being processed – that can be sent almost anywhere at the click of a button and can be kept on the phone itself, on disc or somewhere that’s hard to imagine in the far reaches of the internet. No sticking prints in albums to pore over at leisure.

How valuable it would be if every parish

council in Visitorland resolved to capture and care for a continuous photographic record of changes within its boundaries, before and after that house was built, that business changed hands, that road layout was altered, that pub was closed down, that barn was converted into a house, that derelict cottage was rebuilt, that pond was filled in, that burial ground was extended ... It wouldn’t cost a parish council much to recruit volunteers to produce a local pictorial record that would be highly valued by future generations of residents and historians. All the digital pictures could be easily retrieved and viewed wherever and whenever they’re wanted, so long as the digital filing system is well organised and each image is accurately captioned with the ‘where, what and when’ information. Which would be invaluable in settling those interminable pub arguments about how things used to be. Memories fade as the years pass and often become distorted and die. NN.

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© The Visitor Ltd. 2024

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

Cartoons by GEOFF THOMPSON

Good Morning Britain

presenter Ranvir Singh is encouraging readers to sign up for one of Breast Cancer Now’s Pink Ribbon Walks this summer

Sir, Breast Cancer Now’s Pink Ribbon Walks are back and I want to encourage your readers to step forward and sign up for a 10 or 20-mile walk.

I know just how vital Breast Cancer Now’s research and support is for those affected. Last year, I took part in a Pink Ribbon Walk with my beautiful friend Kate, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2020. Soon after her diagnosis, scans found that the disease had spread to her bones. Kate is now living with secondary breast cancer, which is incurable. At the picturesque Blenheim Palace, I walked with Kate for everyone affected by this devastating disease.

This year, Pink Ribbon Walks are taking place at Hampton Court Palace (London) on Sunday 28 April, Blenheim Palace

(Oxfordshire) on Saturday 11 May and the Bakewell Showground (Derbyshire) on Saturday 22 June. The walks are perfect for new walkers and seasoned hikers alike, and walkers will be cheered on by Breast Cancer Now volunteers along the route.

I met Kate when we both had newborn kids. Then three years ago, when I was taking part in Strictly, I was given two tickets to invite friends to the studio. I asked my cherished friend Kate and her husband Darren to come. Kate had been diagnosed with breast cancer and it was terrifying, nobody knew what the coming months would bring.

When I walked down those Strictly steps and saw Kate and Darren’s faces in the crowd, I felt so emotional that they were both there for me. Over the last three years, as well as raising two precious, confident daughters, dealing with secondary breast cancer and returning to work as a teacher, Kate has raised so much money for Breast Cancer

Now and has been a keen participant in the Pink Ribbon Walks.

The Pink Ribbon Walks are an amazing opportunity to help people up and down the country like Kate who have felt the impact of this terrible disease. As you explore the wonderful locations, you can stride in the knowledge that you’re supporting the many people, families and communities that face the challenges of breast cancer each and every day.

By supporting Breast Cancer Now and taking part in a Pink Ribbon Walk, I felt like I was doing my bit to help those undergoing treatment and those who’ll need it in the future.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Every 10 minutes someone in the UK hears the words “you have breast cancer”.

Breast Cancer Now are moving towards a vision that by 2050, everyone diagnosed with breast cancer lives, and is supported to live well. Pink Ribbon Walks are helping to make this possible by raising money for world-class research and life-changing support services, helping thousands living with breast cancer across the UK.

Up for a challenge? Take on a Pink Ribbon Walk and help fund life-changing research and support with every step. Join Breast Cancer Now at a Pink Ribbon Walk this summer, to create hope with every step. Sign up today at breastcancer now.org/prw to provide support for today and hope for the future.

Ranvir Singh

Breast Cancer Now supporter

Have your say:

May deadline

22nd April

Mentioned in Dispatches

Local Motorcycle club again successful at the Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show

WELLS CLASSIC Motorcycle

Cub won the much sought after ‘Best Club Stand’ award at this major Classic Motorcycle event, held over the weekend 24th/25th February 2024.

Club members displayed 15 Classic motorcycles ranging from year 1929 through to the early 2000’s.

The fine display of motorcycles was complemented by a Wells

Market Place theme which included ‘Three Wells Café and Bar’. The bar and café was fully stocked, complete with a Juke Box. At the other side we displayed a large backdrop of the Top end of Wells Market Place which along with the bikes attracted much interest.

Amongst the members display of bikes there was the clubs ‘Lamp post lady’ complete with Hanging Baskets and a ‘Rattle Bucket’ collecting donations for The Air Ambulance in exchange for a hot drink and a piece of cake in the café. This was complemented by their ‘Town Crier’ complete with traditional clothing and a bell, between them and the Bar staff, over the weekend they raised a whopping £1647.00 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

The club also organises the very popular ‘Tortoise and Hare Motorcycle event’ based in Wells and riding through the Mendip Hills and beyond at which much needed funds are also raised to suport the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and EVS Freewheelers (Blood Bikes) - over £24,000 has been raised for these two charities by this event over the years.

This year’s event which attracts entrants from far and wide is to be held over the weekend 19th-21st July.

The club is an active one, new members are always very welcome to join regardless of age of machine or rider.

All club details and Tortoise and Hare entry forms are available at www.wellsclassic motorcycleclub.weebly.com.

Award being received by club members, Chris Weeks (Chairman) Mike Parfitt (Town Crier) Jany Scott (Lady in the lamp) pictured with Show commentators and ex Racers James Whitam and Steve Plater.

Mentioned in Dispatches

Historic landmark Alfred’s Tower to reopen at Easter Alfred’s Tower, cared for by the National Trust and a prominent landmark on the Stourhead Estate, near Mere in Wiltshire, is set to open its doors to visitors on Good Friday, 29 March.

This year the Stourhead team want to recruit more volunteers to help support the opening of Alfred’s Tower, enabling the tower to be open more often for visitors to enjoy.

The tower, which recently celebrated its 250th anniversary, will be open every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays, from Friday 29 March until Sunday 3 November, between 11am-3pm, but visitors are encouraged to check the website before travelling.

Natasha Hopkins, National Trust Visitor Operations and Experience Manager at Stourhead, said: “After its winter closure, we’re really excited to welcome visitors back to Alfred’s Tower. As well as the view from the top, the tower is surrounded by wonderful woodland walks for a lovely day out for the whole family.”

At 160 feet high, Alfred's Tower offers far-reaching views across the Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset countryside to those who make it up the 205 steps inside the triangular tower. The surrounding countryside also

offers beautiful walking routes across the Stourhead estate. Alfred’s Tower was designed by Henry Flitcroft, the same architect who designed Stourhead’s iconic temples. It was the vision of Henry Hoare II ‘the Magnificent’, creator of Stourhead’s landscape garden. The tower commemorates the accession of George III to the throne in 1760 and the end of the Seven Years War. It is named after the legendary Saxon King, Alfred the Great, who according to legend raised his standard there in 878 AD. Admission to the tower is free for National Trust members. Admission charges for non-members are adult £6, child £3, family £15, family one adult £9. Anyone interested in helping to care for the tower and share its rich history can find out more by contacting Natasha Hopkins, natasha.hopkins@national trust.org.uk.

Winterborne Valley Croquet Club Open Day 27 April Summer beckons and that means Croquet. Why not visit Winterborne Valley Croquet Club based at Winterborne Stickland Village Sports and Social Club, 10 minutes from Blandford Forum. They are having an Open Day for anyone to attend and see what its all about on Saturday 27 April 2024 from 11.00am.

The Club was established at Winterborne S ti ckland in 2019 and the lawns are open for play between April to October each year, seven days a week from 10 am until 8pm. They are a friendly club looking to expand their membership.

They have club days on a Monday and Roll Up Saturday a ft ernoons along with Twilight Evening play so a ti me for everyone to meet and compete with other players. They have a Croquet Club Ladder and play friendly matches against other clubs in the South West. A great way to keep healthy and have fun, both Adult and Junior membership is available. See the website: www.wvcroquet.co.uk for further details. Call 01202

578356 to book a Free Taster Session at the Open Day or to arrange a session for another day of your choosing.

King Alfred's Tower, Stourhead Estate, Wiltshire. Photo: National Trust Images/John Miller.

Mentioned in Dispatches

Frome Museum re-opens with the story of The Frome Hoard

Frome Museum re-openend on 12 March after a winter break with a fresh new look and an exciting new display, ‘The Story of the Frome Hoard’.

The Frome Hoard, the largest deposit of Roman coins ever found in a single container in the UK, was discovered by amateur metal detectorist David Crisp on 11 April 2010. It contained a staggering 52,503 coins.

The Frome Museum display features an exact replica of the original urn made by heritage

potter Graham Taylor, along with replicas of a selection of the coins aged to reproduce how the hoard looked when it was first excavated. The accompanying display panel, accessible to visitors of all ages, tells the fascinating story of the hoard.

Michael Maggs, the Chair of Trustees, said: “We are very proud of the hard work our volunteers have done over the last few months to bring a smart new look to the upper gallery ready for our 2024 reopening. We have new displays and interpretation boards this year, and we are especially excited about our major new permanent exhibit, 'The Story of the Frome Hoard'."

The museum showcases the long and varied history of Frome. The Frome timeline illustrates the development of the town over the past 1500 years alongside displays about the town’s

industrial heritage, including the world-renowned Singer’s Foundry, whose work can still be seen across the world, and the wool and printing trades that brought prosperity to the town from the 15th century onwards.

Visitors can also see traditional shop reconstructions from days gone by, including Maggs the Chemist and the Garston Veterinary Practice. The Museum’s library contains thousands of documents and maps relating to Frome and the surrounding area. It is open to researchers by appointment.

The Museum is open between

10.00am and 2.00pm Tuesdays to Saturdays and on Frome Independent Market Sundays. Admission is free. To find out more, visit frome-museum.org.

Arts Society Mendip talks

Tuesday 2nd April: The Arts Society Mendip. The Culture of Ukraine. Rosamund Bartlett, writer, lecturer and translator will describe how shared cultures bind these multi-ethnic peoples together, exploring the sacred art and architecture of Kyiv with its links to Byzantium, and the distinctive characters of Odesa and Lviv. The folk traditions in

Dr Robert Heath of Frome Museum with Dave Crisp, the metal detectorist who discovered the Frome Hoard in 2010 in front of The Story of the Frome Hoard display.

Image: Somerset Council/South West Heritage Trust.

Mentioned in Dispatches

song and embroidery have influenced modern painting, haute couture and borsch. The talk will begin at 11.00am in Croscombe Village Hall. This lecture will not be available on Zoom.

Tuesday 5th May: The Arts Society Mendip. Contrapuntal Forms: Barbara Hepworth and Terry Frost. Justine Hopkins will describe the partnership and art development between Barbara Hepworth and Terry Frost from the Festival of Britain exhibit ‘Contrapuntal Forms’ and throughout the course of their careers. The talk will begin at 11.00am in Croscombe Village Hall (and simultaneously via

Zoom – a link will be sent to members and guests). Guests are welcome for a fee of £10. Further details, including information about becoming a member and full programme available on the website; www.theartssociety mendip.org.uk.

Imagine what it must be like to be unable to read ... Can you spare an hour a week?

It is estimated that across England around 10% of adults can barely read or can’t read at all, having a massive impact on their daily lives: e.g. shopping, form filling, understanding household bills and accessing health information or the pleasure of reading to children or grandchildren.

Read Easy UK is a national charity that offers free, friendly, confidential, one to one coaching from trained volunteer reading coaches. The Bridport group is expanding into South Somerset and is looking for new coaches in

Yeovil and the surrounding villages.

Volunteer coaches don’t need to be teachers: they just need to be fluent English speakers and competent readers. After training, coaches are paired with a reader whom they meet for 30 minutes twice a week in pre-booked local public venues. Together they work through a course that has been specially designed to teach adults to read and allows readers to work at their own pace.

Reading coaches are supported by a co-ordinator who reports to the management team which includes a literacy specialist and members responsible for safeguarding, data protection, venues and recruitment.

THE BUT TERCROSS TEAROOMS

Market Place, Somer ton (01458) 273168

Homemade Cakes & Scones

Morning Coffee, Cream Teas Lunch Served 12 – 3pm

Open: Tue – Sat 9am – 5pm

Volunteering as a reading coach is an exciting chance to have a key role in your community. If you’d like to play a part in transforming the lives of adults near you why not get in touch? Or perhaps you know someone who might be interested in learning to read?

For more details, visit: www.readeasy.org.uk/groups /bridport or facebook.com/ ReadEasyBridport. To volunteer contact Linda Ryall: bridportrecruiter@readeasy.org. uk. For help learning to read, contact Lesley Burgess on 07707 259905 or email: bridport

Mentioned in Dispatches

coordinator@readeasy.org.uk.

The charity have a short film about its work that is available on YouTube found at: www .youtube.com /watch?v= WxLNTpvf0ME.

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd

Chartered Certified Accountants

2 Bailey Hill

Castle Cary BA7 7AD

Tel: 01963 351052

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

Personal and professional service

Thousands of species set to benefit from new government funding Lapwings, water voles and dragonflies are among the species to benefit from new government funding awarded on Friday 15th March to restore and create nature-rich landscapes across England.

Twenty conservation projects, including ‘Bogs and Bitterns: Somerset wetland restoration’, headed up by Somerset Wildlife Trust, will each receive a share

of £25 million from the Species Survival Fund, with the ambition to restore over 3,300 hectares of critical habitats for wildlife, such as the Atlantic rainforest, grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands – a total area equivalent to the size of York.

The projects, which span the length and breadth of the country from Cornwall to Northumberland, will see over 11.5 kilometres of chalk river corridor restored in Hertfordshire, coastal and floodplain marsh

improved in Dorset and chalky meadows recovered across the high peak of Derbyshire. On the Somerset Levels, 50 hectares of wetland habitat will be restored and expanded to create good quality ‘stepping stone’ sites and improve species abundance across Somerset.

Simon Clarke, Head of Nature Recovery at Somerset Wildlife Trust, said:

“The natural environment is at a critical crossroads. It’s vital that we are able to strengthen the

50 hectares of wetland habitat will be restored and expanded on the Somerset Levels, to help improve species abundance across Somerset thanks to new government funding.

Mentioned in Dispatches

county’s nature recovery network by focussing on these key, and vulnerable ‘stepping stone’ sites in the Avalon Marshes, and provide a range of resilient habitats that can continue to support a range of species and that can deliver the high functioning ecosystems that we know that will enable us to tackle climate change. We’re really delighted to have been awarded these funds and are looking forward to engaging with the local communities to explore ways that they can get involved."

Grants of up to £3 million have been awarded to projects run by wildlife charities, farmers, and community groups to accelerate nature recovery and support precious species. The Fund is being delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund on behalf of Defra. Environment Minister, Rebecca Pow, said: “The funding awarded today as part of our flagship Species Survival Fund will enable local authorities, landowners, farmers, and our protected landscapes organisations to restore nature at scale and provide valuable green jobs in the process.

“Only by creating bigger and better habitats for wildlife will we be able to halt the alarming decline in species loss. This fund will be a key plank in achieving our legally binding targets to halt species loss and protect 30% land for nature by 2030.”

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Defra again to distribute funding for these projects, which will support nature recovery by helping to boost the quality and quantity of wildlife-rich habitats across England. This partnership will further our vision for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future.”

The government is going further and faster for nature. Since the launch of the Environmental Improvement Plan a year ago, the government has delivered more than 50 significant commitments set out in the plan including planting nearly 5 million trees, accelerating our world leading

farming schemes and becoming the first country in the world to implement mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain. The Species Survival Fund builds upon the success of similar initiatives like the Green Recovery Challenge Fund and will create the foundations for ongoing expansion of habitats to support our wildlife.

Sherborne Old Castle: Caring for the Collection

Saturday 6th April

Talks begin at 2pm, doors open from 1.30pm at Digby Memorial Church Hall, Sherborne, DT9 3NL. Tickets: £5 on the door. Free for members of Sherborne Museum. Speaker: Matty Cambridge.

Sherborne Old Castle was excavated several times during the 20th century but what happens to the finds after each dig? What kinds of objects have

been unearthed from the site? A current English Heritage project is underway to document and understand the collection from Sherborne Old Castle. In this talk, Assistant Curator, Matty Cambridge, will reveal more

about the project, past excavations and how English Heritage continues to care for the collections. Find out more at www.sherbornemuseum.com/ portfolio/sherborne-old-castlecaring-for-the-collection.

Mentioned in Dispatches

Westland Classic and Motorcycle Club’s 32nd Spirit of the Sixties charity motorcycle run

Sunday 19th May

For motorcyles, scooters and trikes in aid of Freewheelers EVS Start and finish at Yeovil Rugby Club with a lunch stop at The Nothe Fort, Weymouth.

Entry is £18 in advance, £25 on the day. No fee for learners and under 18s. Volunteer marshals on any age machine go free. For entry forms and details go to www.wcmcc.org.uk.

Talk: Life and Death in Roman Somerton

Life and Death in Roman Somerton is the subject of a talk at Yeovil by the archaeologist who led a dig which revealed a Romano-British cemetery. The talk takes place at the monthly meeting of Yeovil Archaeological and Local History Society on

Friday April 5 at 7.15 prompt at Holy Trinity Church, Lysander

Road, Yeovil BA20 2BU. Parking on site, there is a £2 charge to non-members of the Society.

Brand new exhibition at Muchelney Pottery

LISA WISDOM:Clay

& Rust 27 April - 22 June

Lisa Wisdom is a Cornwall-based artist working in found rust and charcoal. She utilises a distinctive collage technique that transforms discarded metal into evocative compositions. Following visits to the pottery over a twelve month period she has created a body of work in her unique style depicting atmospheric pot portraits and scenes from around the workshops and grounds at Muchelney.

Lisa trained as a traditional Blacksmith and a jeweller and combines techniques from both craft disciplines to create her novel art works. Daughter of a potter (Nic Harrison) and with a strong St Ives Leach pottery family link, Lisa imbues a sense of history and place within each piece.

OPEN EVENT: Saturday 27 April, 10am - 4pm. Join us in the shop and gallery for the first look at Lisa Wisdom's brand new exhibition and enjoy a glass of wine as your browse! Lisa will be on hand throughout the day to talk about her work and answer any questions. Then wander across the pottery yard into the kiln shed where the crew will be

unpacking the latest firing. See inside the kiln and talk with Mark Melbourne about the firing process. In addition Little Van Rouge will be on site all day selling food and drink.

Plenty of free parking and Free entry at Muchelney Pottery, Muchelney, Nr. Langport, TA10 0DW. Find out more at www.johnleachpottery.co.uk.

Cane handled Teapot.

Lisa Wisdom exhibits at Muchelney Pottery 27 April - 22 June.

Cross handled bottle.

Mentioned in Dispatches

80th anniversary of Exercise Smash at Studland

This April sees the 80th anniversary of Exercise Smash, a dress rehearsal for the D-Day landings, which took place at Studland Bay in 1944.

Studland Bay was chosen for Exercise Smash because it was similar to the beaches in Normandy – with long shores and sandy dunes. Thousands of men took part in the exercise and it’s here the British tested their amphibious tanks – the duplexdrive Valentine tank.

The tanks were designed to be launched in the sea when big naval carriers couldn’t dock. However, on April 4, 1944, the exercise took a tragic turn when the tanks were launched too far out from the shore and, when the weather turned, they started taking on water. Seven of them sank, killing six soldiers. The wrecks of the tanks still lie on the seabed at Studland Bay. Their final resting places are

honoured as war graves.

The exercise was watched by Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, George VI and American General Eisenhower, from Fort Henry at Middle Beach, a concrete bunker which can still be visited today. The National Trust is commemorating the milestone with events including a visit by the last remaining duplex-drive Valentine tank of the type used in the exercise, guided WW2 walks along with an exhibition and talks in Studland’s village hall in association with the Isle of Purbeck Sub Aqua Club.

Exhibition at Studland Village Hall on Wednesday 3 April and Thursday 4 April (10.30am-3pm) and Friday 5 April (12.30pm3.30pm). The exhibition shows photographs, original pathe reels, physical ordnance and apparatus from the tanks. There will be someone from the Sub Aqua club and the National Trust team available to answer any questions. Guided Walks on Wednesday 3 April and Thursday 4 April (2pm-4pm). Led by Pam White, a local historian, about Studland during WW2. On Thursday 4 April (12.30pm4.00pm) and Friday 5 April (10am-3pm) the Valentine tank will be at Knoll Beach.

On Friday 5 April (10am11.30am) there will be a talk in Studland Village Hall by Major Graeme Green about the regiment and Exercise Small, by John Pearson about the restoration of the Valentines Tank, and Nick Reed from the

Sub Aqua Club about diving the site. Guided walks are £5 a ticket and bookable through the website www.nationaltrust.org/visit/dorse t/Studland-bay.

All other events are free, though normal car parking charges apply.

Exercise Smash. Photograph courtesty of the Tank Museum.

Fort Henry from the air. Photo: National Trust Images/John Millar.

Mentioned in Dispatches

Actor Hugh Bonneville meets Parkinson’s campaigner at North Cadbury Court

Former soldier and Parkinson’s campaigner Guy Deacon CBE will take to the stage with actor Hugh Bonneville, to talk about his remarkable overland trip from Sherborne in Dorset to Cape Town in South Africa. In 2023 Guy drove solo down the west coast of Africa across 25 countries, covering 18,000 miles in 12 months, using the journey to highlight the experiences of people like him who suffer from the debilitating disease.

The event on 25th April at North Cadbury Court in Somerset will be a fundraiser to support Parkinson’s charities. Joining them will be filmmaker Rob Hayward, who documented the story in a film to be broadcast later this year. The evening has been arranged by friends and supporters of Guy’s endeavours, marking World Parkinson’s Day on 11th April.

Hugh Bonneville will talk to Guy about his new book “Running on Empty” and about the making of the documentary. Proceeds from the evening will be divided between Cure Parkinson’s Trust, Parkinson’s Africa and the Deacon Foundation. Tickets will be available in advance via Eventbrite and Bailey Hill Bookshop, Castle Cary. Doors open at 6pm.

For Guy it was a journey of personal challenge and self discovery, while also exposing the prejudice and stigma associated with this illness in Africa. He said: “There are 10 million people suffering with Parkinson’s - now the fastest growing neurological disease in the world and still with no known cause or cure.

“While I struggle to get dressed, to tie my own shoe laces, to pick up a pen and write, and to remove my necessary pills from their blister packs, I know I’m the lucky one. In many African societies, Parkinson’s is entirely misunderstood and is seen as a curse rather than a neurological condition. Most sufferers have no access to medicines nor the kind of care that we in the west receive. Instead, they are abandoned and shunned by their local communities; their stories are heart breaking.”

Hugh Bonneville said: “Guy’s efforts to raise awareness and understanding of Parkinson’s have been extraordinary. His overland route down the west coast of Africa, passing through a great number of extremely dangerous and politically unstable countries, would have challenged the strongest and fittest among us.

“But for someone suffering from advanced stage three Parkinson’s, it is a truly

remarkable achievement. His story deserves to be heard and I look forward to getting into conversation with Guy and Rob, to find out more about Guy’s life on the open road in Africa and what it was that drove him to keep going. It’s going to be a fascinating evening.”

Guy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2010. Despite this diagnosis, he was appointed Colonel in Charge of the Royal Armoured Corps (RAC), based in

Coast of Morocco.

Mentioned in Dispatches

Bovington, Dorset, from July 2015 and he continued his military career until retirement in 2019. Later that year, his lifetime achievements with the RAC were recognised with a CBE. Since his return from Africa, Guy continues his mission to raise awareness and understanding of Parkinson’s disease in the UK, throughout Africa and beyond. More information is available at www.guydeacon.co.uk.

The event has been arranged by the Montgomery family, the owners of North Cadbury Court which has been their family home for more than 100 years. Local suppliers who are supporting the evening include Victoria’s Food, Vine Wine, Rochester’s Event Hire, Petal Press Design, Shelleys, Bailey Hill Bookshop and Jack Gaunt Photography.

Tickets available from: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fund raising-for-cure-parkinsonsparkinsons-africa-deaconfoundation-tickets-

852832614307?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Also available at The Bailey Hill Bookshop in Castle Cary. You can dontate by visiting: https://donate.cureparkinsons.org .uk/running-on-empty.

West Somerset Railway and local MP boost for English Tourism

Local MP Ian Liddell-Grainger met West Somerset Railway managers and staff to visit works that have been carried out on the line over the winter shut down period and to hear about their plans for 2024 which is the 150th anniversary of the opening of the railway to Minehead.

The railway reopened on

Saturday 23rd March, on time to mark the end of Visit Britain’s Tourism Week.

Much work has been done during the winter to put the railway in good fettle for the season and exciting plans are in hand for new attractions for families and to mark the railway’s anniversary and the reopening of the refurbished museum at Blue Anchor.

Ian Liddell-Grainger commended staff and volunteers on their work in getting the railway ready and for its huge importance as the longest heritage railway in England in supporting the local West Somerset economy.

For further details see www.west-somerset-railway .co.uk.

National Garden Scheme

Dorset Open Gardens & Special Events – Spring 2024 Broomhill , Rampisham, Dorchester DT2 0PT. Contact: David & Carol Parry.

A former farmyard transformed into a delightful, tranquil garden set in 2 acres. Clipped box, island beds and borders planted with shrubs, roses, grasses, masses of unusual perennials and choice annuals to give vibrancy and colour into the autumn. Lawns and paths lead to a less formal area with large wildlife pond, meadow, shaded areas, bog garden, late summer border. Orchard and vegetable garden. Gravel entrance, the rest is grass, some gentle slopes.

Opening: Sun 21 Apr (2-5). Adm £5, chd free. Home-made teas. Teas inc gluten free cake. Visits also by arrangement

5 June to 9 Aug for groups of 8 to 45. There is room for a coach to park.

Location: 11m NW of Dorchester. From Dorchester A37 Yeovil, 9m L Evershot. From Yeovil A37 Dorchester, 7m R Evershot. Follow signs. From Crewkerne A356, 1½m after

MP Ian Liddell-Grainger meets with West Somerset Railway managers and staff.

Mentioned in Dispatches

Rampisham Garage L

Rampisham. Follow signs.

Frankham Farm ,Ryme Intrinseca, Sherborne DT9 6JT.

Contact: Susan Ross MBE.

3½ acre garden, created since 1960 by the late Jo Earle for yearround interest. This large and lovely garden is filled with a wide variety of well grown plants, roses, unusual labelled shrubs and trees. Productive vegetable garden. Clematis and other climbers. Spring bulbs through to autumn colour, particularly oaks. Sorry, no dogs. Ramp available for the two steps to the garden. Modern WCs inc disabled.

Opening: Sun 21 Apr, (12-5). Adm £7, chd free. Light refreshments in our newly converted barn (no steps). BBQ with our own farm produced beef, lamb & pork, vegetarian soup, home-made cakes made by village bakers.

Location: 3m S of Yeovil. Just

off A37 - turn next to Hamish's farm shop signed to Ryme Intrinseca, go over small bridge and up hill, drive is on L.

Horn Park , Tunnel Rd, Beaminster DT8 3HB. Contact: Mr & Mrs David Ashcroft.

Large plantsman's garden with magnificent views over Dorset countryside towards the sea. Many rare and mature plants and shrubs in terraced, herbaceous, rock and water gardens. Woodland garden and walks in bluebell woods. Good amount of spring interest with magnolia, rhododendron and bulbs which are followed by roses and herbaceous planting, wildflower meadow with 164 varieties inc orchids

Opening: Wed 24 Apr, (2.304.30). Adm £5, chd free. Home-made teas.

Location: 1½m N of

Beaminster. On A3066 from Beaminster, L before tunnel (see signs).

Comment: Opened for us for 28 years. Amazing views across the valley to Beaminster. Large traditional garden with deep herbaceous borders, terracing and mature plants. You can also visit the woodland garden to the left as you face out to the valley, which will be lovely in April. One not to miss, this is such a lovely garden.

The Old Vicarage, East Orchard, Shaftesbury SP7 0BA. Owner: Miss Tina Wright.

1.7 acre and new 1.1 acre wildlife garden with hundreds of different snowdrops, crocus and many other bulbs and winter flowering shrubs. A stream meanders down to a pond and there are lovely reflections in the swimming pond, the first to be built in Dorset. The new acre has been planted with several unusual trees. Grotto, old Victorian man pushing his lawn mower which his owner purchased brand new in 1866. Pond dipping, swing and other children's attractions. Cakes inc gluten free, and vegans are also catered for. Not suitable for wheelchairs if very wet.

Opening: Fri 26, Sun 28 Apr,

(2-5). Adm £5, chd free. Homemade teas in garden but inside if very wet in winter. Visits also by arrangement 2 Jan to 3 Dec

Location: 4½m S of Shaftesbury, 3½m N of Sturminster Newton. On B3091 between 90 degree bend & layby with defibrillator red phone box. Parking is on the opp corner towards Hartgrove.

The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney, Dorchester DT2 9AH. Contact: Richard & Emily Cave.

Steep paths lead to beguiling 4 acres of natural woodland with many springs, streams, 2 pools one a natural swimming pool planted with native plants. Formal front garden, designed by Arne Maynard, with pleached crabtree border, topiary and soft planting inc tulips, peonies, roses and verbascums. Walled garden with informal planting, kitchen garden, orchard and 350 rose bushes for a cut flower business

Opening: Sun 28 Apr, (11-5). Adm £7, chd free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement 30 Apr to 30 Sept.

Location: 9m W of Dorchester. 1m S of A35, 6m E of Bridport. Park in village and follow signs. All entries subject to change. For latest information check www.ngs.org.uk.

Savouring Liquid Gold; The Delightful World of Ice Wine, a Symphony of Frost and Vine.

AT THE TIME of writing, we seem to be suffering a cold spell, but thankfully with little sign of the promised snow, just relentless rain. Personally, I love being snowed in; the perfect excuse to huddle-down with a book and a glass of wine, and if there is an open fire, so much the better.

The frosty weather has got me thinking of one of my favourite wines; Ice Wine, known as Eiswein if it is from Germany. It is an intensely sweet wine, best served really cold, and not the easiest wine to find.

Wine enthusiasts often seek out unique and exquisite tastes that tantalise their palates and transport them to distant vineyards. Among the diverse array of wines available, ice wine stands out as a jewel in the crown of winemaking craftsmanship. Originating in Germany in the late 18th century and flourishing in colder climates around the world, ice wine embodies a harmonious blend of nature's whimsy and human ingenuity.

Ice wine is a dessert wine crafted from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine. Unlike traditional wines, where grapes are harvested during the fall harvest season, ice wine grapes are left to brave the elements well into winter.

This waiting game is crucial, as the grapes must freeze solid on the vine for ice wine production to commence. Winemakers vigilantly monitor the weather, waiting for temperatures to drop to a precise threshold, usually around -8 to -

10°C (17.6 to 14°F), before embarking on the delicate process of harvesting.

Once the perfect frosty conditions arrive, skilled workers swiftly handpick the frozen grapes before they thaw. Ice wine production is risky (the frost may not come at all before the grapes rot or are otherwise lost) and requires the availability of a large enough labour force to pick the whole crop within a few hours, at a moment's notice, on the first morning it is cold enough.

This labour-intensive method ensures that the grapes retain their concentrated sugars and acids, essential for producing the signature sweet and balanced flavour profile of ice wine.

The sugars and other dissolved solids do not freeze, but the water does, allowing for a more concentrated grape juice to develop. The grapes' must is then pressed from the frozen grapes, resulting in a smaller amount of more intense, very sweet juice. With ice wines, the freezing happens before fermentation, not afterwards.

What sets ice wine apart is this unparalleled sweetness balanced with refreshing acidity. The freezing process results in a luscious nectar that dances on the taste buds. However, what truly elevates ice wine is its acidity, which acts as a counterbalance, preventing the wine from becoming cloying and imparting a lively zest that awakens the senses.

Ice wine's flavour profile is a symphony of tropical fruits, honeyed apricots, ripe peaches, and zesty citrus notes, all woven together with a hint of floral aroma. Each sip is a journey

through a winter wonderland, evoking images of frost-kissed vineyards and crystalline landscapes.

While Germany remains renowned for its Eiswein, other cold-climate regions have also embraced the art of ice wine production. Canada, particularly the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario, has emerged as a leading producer of ice wine, with its frigid winters ideal for grape freezing. Canadian ice wines are celebrated for their exceptional quality and have garnered international acclaim, in addition to being the world's largest producer of ice wine, producing a greater volume of ice wine than all other countries combined.

In addition to Germany and Canada, other regions, including Austria, the United States (notably New York State and Washington), and even China, have joined the ranks of ice wine producers, each infusing their unique terroir into this exquisite libation.

Ice wine's decadent sweetness makes it a versatile companion for a variety of culinary delights. Its natural affinity for desserts, particularly fruit-based confections like crumbles or tarts, makes it a delightful finale to any meal. However, ice wine's complexity extends beyond the dessert realm, pairing beautifully with savoury dishes such as foie gras, blue cheese, or spicy Asian cuisine, where its acidity acts as a palate cleanser.

One cannot discuss ice wine without acknowledging its rarity and the painstaking effort required for its production. The whims of weather, coupled with the precise timing of harvest,

make ice wine a precious commodity. Its limited availability and labour-intensive production contribute to its allure, transforming each bottle into a treasure to be savoured and shared on special occasions.

German ice wine is at the upper end of the scale in terms of cost, at around £50+ for 37.5cl.

Although I have not had the opportunity to sample it there is also Blue Aurora , produced by Lutton Farm in Northamptonshire, made purely from frozen blueberries, so not really ‘wine’ at all. It sells at £22.50 for 37.5cl.

More accessible is Lidl’s offering. They tend to have some Canadian Ice Wine in stock much of the time. Made either from Reisling or Vidal grapes, it is not inexpensive but a little does go a long way.

Icewine Pillitteri 10.2%abv., £13.99, 2017, 37.5cl., Niagara-onthe-Lake, Canada

Ice wine represents the epitome of winemaking artistry, where nature's capriciousness intertwines with human skill to produce liquid gold in a bottle. Its unparalleled sweetness, balanced acidity, and versatility make it a cherished indulgence for wine enthusiasts worldwide. So, the next time you raise a glass of ice wine, toast to the harmony of frost and vine, and savour the exquisite pleasure it brings to the senses.

L.P-V.

White grape leaved for making Ice wine on Wachau valley, Austria. Image: Shutterstock.com/Gayane.

April Notice Board

MARTOCK

Emerald Jazz, Thursday 25th April at All Saints Church, MARTOCK; TA12 6JN, 7:30pm.

Tickets: £10.00 at Guardians tickets@gmail.com/07547

213992/Martock Gallery/Martock Newsagent (CASH ONLY); £12.00 at door. www.martock online.co.uk/events www.facebook.com/emeraldjazz.

Sudoku by T. M.

Fill in the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers 1 to 9

Solution to March

Sudoku on page 35

Spring dating with Alison at Just Somerset Introductions

Jazz is a jazz trio led by Kelly Dale, accompanied by Paul Chousmer on piano and double bassist Pete Maxfield. Performing American Songbook standards made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday, to more modern classics by Crystal Gayle and Nina Simone.

ADVERTISE your MAY event here, email: info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk, write to: PO BOX 5522 Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or tel: 01963 351256. £5 for 20 words, 30p per additional word. Payment via credit/debit card or cheque. May issue deadline is 22nd April!

Spring has sprung! Daffodils and tulips are out and the countryside is coming back to life with new growth and hopefully some drier weather ahead! Easter is early this year, let’s hope we get some sunny warmer weather very soon.

We are getting some good enquiries as it’s spring, more people looking to meet someone. It’s a great time to get out and meet new people maybe a new relationship. We’ve had some lovely lunches out at good pubs, theatre visits, quirky cafés, markets, skittles, ten pin bowling

and much more! We offer one to one intros and socials in a professional, caring and confidential way which all starts with an interview in your own home.

Once joined you get a monthly newsletter and can see the profiles of other members.

We are in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and going into Devon plus more recently Surrey and Berkshire and you can meet members throughout the group. See our website for more details of how we work and testimonials too. Have a look and give me a call!

Emerald

Crewkerne Business Focus

HG Home Improvements

WITH 15 years experience of general building work, HG Home Improvements are qualified to do installations of the highest quality, including bespoke work for those awkward areas. Henry is a carpentry and door specialist. For a quote please call 07961 811180.

Rockin’ Daddys Emporion

The popular local community radio station Rockin’ Daddys (RD) have now opened an emporion in

The George Shopping Centre on Market Street.

The massive interest in all things vintage and retro prompted the idea to open an emporion. Supporting the local

community, this is not only a shop, but also a radio station base, doubling up as a recording studio. Check out their Facebook page (Rockin’ Daddys Emporion) for the DJ’s appearing most days.

Whatever your legal needs, talk to Everys

Everys Solicitors was established over 200 years ago in Honiton and has since grown to have additional offices in Crewkerne, Exeter, Exmouth, Seaton, Sidmouth, Taunton, Tiverton and London. It has become a leading

general practice law firm in the South West serving a wide range of clientele locally, nationally and internationally.

With a wealth of expertise across the departments, the firm can assist with diverse issues, including conveyancing for a property, selling a business, rural affairs, providing matrimonial advice, handling a dispute, and dealing with private client matters such as wills, probate, taxation and powers of attorney.

Whether you choose to drop into any of the offices, or prefer an online approach, you’ll enjoy the same personal touch, and have a team with the knowledge and experience to approach your matter with sensitivity and professionalism.

with Jenna Evans

I'M STARTING a series this month looking at medications –including supplements and herbs – their interactions, limitations and some general common sense advice. It hasn't been easy to find statistics for prescription medicines, other than that, unsurprisingly, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety meds have gone through the roof, but I can vouch for the increase in the use of vitamins and herbals over the last few years. I see a lot of people who have a long list of prescribed meds and/or supplements – and often they're not sure why they're taking half of them! I'm also surprised by the amount of people who don't read drug inserts or follow the directions on their remedies. Some people even put everything in one big handful and knock them back in the morning! If this sounds like you, please stop! I understand reading a drug insert can be terrifying (side effects = death!) but do follow the directions you have been given and if you find any changes do check the inserts or least chat to

a pharmacist. If you are the carer for somebody, it would be a wise move to become familiar with their drugs too. Bear in mind if a drug specifies that it should be taken at a certain time of the day or with/without food, there'll be a good reason. People who take thyroxine for their thyroids will be familiar with the instruction to take first thing in the morning at least half an hour before food or coffee. It simply won't work as well if you don't and can make it hard to get a consistent read on how somebody is progressing.

There are so many possible interactions when taking medicines, all influenced by factors such as other health conditions, age, weight, health of the liver and kidneys. The big three areas of interactions are drug-drug, drug-supplement and drug-food. Let's take a little look at some examples of these, just to highlight how important it is to be aware,

Drug/Drug – This doesn't just apply to prescription meds, overthe-counter remedies have interactions too – read the insert!

Like the other categories of interactions, the two main effects we see are either an effect being nullified by one substance

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knocking the other out, or the amplification of an effect – both potentially dangerous. Examples include ACE inhibitors (blood pressure) with potassium or drugs that increase potassium. Warfarin has a ridiculous list of interactions across the board including NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatories) and several antibiotics. This is why you will have your blood checked regularly when taking warfarin.

Drug/Supplement – Just because herbs and vitamins are natural, doesn't make them universally safe! Most of the information we have on interactions of this group are based on theoretical effects. If drug A does the same (or opposite) to supplement B, then they will often not be recommended together. Then we have herbs such as St John's Wort, well documented to interact with lots of drugs including blood thinners and the contraceptive pill. I also often get asked whether it is worth taking probiotics whilst on antibiotics and my answer to this is yes (and live foods too) – just take them a couple of hours apart.

Drug/Food – Warfarin – you'll be encouraged to eat a consistent diet as sudden changes in Vitamin K (found in leafy greens, chickpeas and egg amongst other things), involved in blood clotting, could be dangerous. Dairy foods are contraindicated with some antibiotics and grapefruit juice has many drug interactions including statins, anti histamines and warfarin (of course!). Other

juices may also pose a problem so if you're a big juice drinker and on meds, why not check? Being aware if your medicines interact with alcohol is important too and bear in mind coffee and tea can also interfere – I'm not too keen on taking those at the same time as vitamins either, so no more knocking your pills back with that morning builders brew!

Join me next month as we start taking a closer look at how medications interact with nutrients and what we can do about it.

Hooper’s Hat Hire, Yeovil

Hooper’s Hat Hire offers an amazing selection of truly beautiful hats/fascinators/ hatinators all TO HIRE, or you could have something exclusively designed to complement your outfit to purchase. You will receive plenty of advice discussing styles, colours and fabrics to gain an understanding of the look you desire.

Sally will also on many occasions change some of her hire hats to go with your outfits so you can hire as opposed to buy. Should you be going to a wedding, the races, a garden party or a visit to the King, its well worth making an appointment. Hooper’s exquisite new collection is now completed and available to hire together with her glamorous bespoke racing collection for anyone going to Ascot this year.

Have a look on her facebook page Hooper’s Hats to see a small sample of what is on offer. Telephone to make an appointment to view the full range for hire or discuss any personal requirements. Sally has a gorgeous showroom offering a very relaxed atmosphere and her main concern is that you are comfortable and happy with what you have chosen for your special day.

Bluelily@No7, 7 Market Place, Wincanton

A fantastic gift shop offering an eclectic mix of fashion and home accessories, Handbags, Silver Jewellery, Goats Milk Skin Care Products, (Goats of The Gorge) as seen recently on Dragons Den, Gifts For Men. There is just so much. Their prices are very favourable and will suit all pockets ... so why don’t you come on down and “Treat Yourself or ... Someone Else”.

An amazing selection of hats to hire at Hooper’s Hat Hire.

A glimpse inside Bluelily@No7, Market Place, Wincanton.

NATIONAL PET MONTH

#NationalPetMonth: April 1 - May 1

Bretts (C Brett & Son), Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Sherborne

BRETTS (C Brett & Son) Pet and Wildlife supplies is situated in the Old Market Car park in Sherborne and is a long established business.

They have a large range of wild bird food and feeders to cater for all types of birds. They have an extensive range of dog and cat toys, plus all the usual pet foods, beds, leads and accessories, hedgehog and wildlife foods and supplies etc.

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.15pm, Sat 9am-4.45pm. Tel 01935 812107.

North Dorset Cat Care

Do you hate taking your cat to the cattery and are worried about the price of cat sitters? Well now you can have your cats looked after in your own home by a fully insured

CRB checked confirmed cat lover. As cats remain in their own homes keeping them at ease, cat lover Carol will only look after 6 cats at a time so they can get full attention, including any medicinal needs. Carol charges per visit rather than per pet, and it’s not just cats as she will also look after rabbits, guinea pigs, and hens too. You can be assured your pets are in safe caring hands

as she is fully insured and DBS checked.

To get your pet care booked please call 07917 612233 or email catzarewow@gmail.com. Find out more at www.northdorsetcat care.co.uk.

Sponsor a resident at Ferne Animal Sanctuary today to give animals in need a better tomorrow

Ferne Animal Sanctuary near Chard have relaunched their sponsorship packs to raise lifesaving funds towards the care of unwanted or abandoned animals.

Sponsorship starts at just £3 a month and makes a big impact at the sanctuary, who work to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome farm and domestic animals. With over 300 resident animals

alongside many others who are patiently waiting for their forever homes, the small donation provides a lifeline to animals in need. In each pack, sponsors receive a day pass to Ferne Animal Sanctuary, to experience the stunning 72-acre site.

Sponsors also receive a personalised certificate, their animal’s story and photograph, information about the animal’s life at Ferne and its resident friends, as well as seasonal postcards and a bookmark. With the ability to sign up to receive updates on the sponsored animals, sponsors can hear about their chosen animal throughout the year, and even come and meet them one-on-one as an optional extra.

Every purchase ensures that

Brunel Pet Centre

5a Brunel Shopping Precinct — SOMERTON — Tel: 01458 274980

Email: info@brunel-pets.com

Website: www.brunel-pets.com

Many Brands of Dog & Cat Food Stocked

Dog & Cat Treats, Toys & Beds

Small Animal Foods, Treats Hay and Straw

Wide Selection of Wild Bird Food & Feeders

ORDERS WELCOME

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

Bretts Pet & Wildlife supplies in Sherborne.

Karen the proprietor at Brunel Pet Centre.

animals in need can find safety, love and kindness at Ferne Animal Sanctuary. From those who have had a traumatic past, to those who have simply lost their home, each sponsorship is a gift to help provide animals with a second chance at a better life.

There are five sponsorship options – Billie the pig, Arnie the

pony, Ken the rabbit, Oscar the cat, or one of the kennels at Ferne, to give a rescue dog somewhere warm and cosy to stay while they wait for their new home.

To find out more, please visit www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org/s ponsor-an-animal.

A Wash Cut & Fur Dry Dog Grooming

Sarah is a one-to-one dog groomer and is Level 3 diploma qualified. Offering a range of services at affordable prices. Lots of experience with nervous, elderly and rescue dogs. Fully equipped salon in a village setting near Langport. Give Sarah a call on 07359 300 189.

BBC’s Paul Martin makes appearance in Mere A free Valuation Day with Paul Martin, best known for being the presenter of various BBC television antiques programmes including Flog It, Trust Me, I'm a Dealer and Paul Martin's

Photo: George Jeans.

SPRING MOTORING

VINTAGE

Motorcycling with Rod Hann

I START THIS month with the events taking place during April. I do so in anticipation that spring weather will allow us to get those vehicles out on the road and to be used as they were intended when made.

The Somerset Section of the VMCC will hold their club night at Cossington on the 4th and next will be the Cheddar Weekend on the 6th and 7th. The 13th and 14th will be the Twin Dragon Run which is a foray into the Welsh mountains, too late for this one I'm afraid as it is all booked up.

Lastly on the 28th will be the Founders Relay Rally (more on this later). The Dorset Section are similarly busy starting on the 7th with the Blandford Run. Club night at Pulham on the 10th will be a guest speaker. Next on the 21st will be the Bluebell Run which also starts from Blandford and lastly on the 28th will be the Founders Relay Rally.

The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section have their club afternoon meeting at Silton on the 8th. On the 14th they hold the Ken Blake Memorial Run and that starts from Ansty and finally they also have the Founders Relay Rally on the 28th. For more details of any of these happenings ring 01935-872528. Look on the web sites of the Wells and Westland Classic Motorcycle Club's and you will see that they have a full calendar of events to enjoy.

The Founders Relay Rally mentioned above is the one day of the year when all sections of the VMCC (around 90 of them spread around the United Kingdom) all organise a check point somewhere in their area. A list of all the checkpoints is published and on the day members set off to ride to as

Email: norrisbodyrepairs@gmail.com

many checkpoints as they wish. They can choose their own route and some prefer to ride individually whilst others form small groups and ride together. Wherever you go you will see old bikes being ridden in every direction. It is all very social because every checkpoint you visit you will see members from different sections on different bikes. Most checkpoints will be arranged at or near facilities to eat and toilets and fuel stations. For some reason you often see members riding on this event that do nothing else within the club for the rest of the year. Always very enjoyable and I recommend it.

Many Sections now organise events lasting two, three, four or even five days in length. The chance of having a long weekend away whilst enjoying riding that old bike in the company of likeminded people is very appealing. These events are becoming ever more popular and a good way to see more of this lovely country of ours. They hold an advantage in that local organisers will be showing you the best parts of their areas, parts you may not find if left to your own devices. We tend to do a few of these events as a replacement for an annual holiday.

The Bristol Classic Bike Show was recently held at the Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet. This annual event was as superb as always with around a thousand machines on display. The standard of restoration was excellent as always with lots of hard work, money and dedication shown to achieve such results. Our local clubs and sections all had stands which brought great

credit to those involved. Many local machines were rewarded with prizes.

Of particular note was the stand put together by the Wells Classic Club. Their efforts were rewarded with the Best Club Stand Award and included a cheque for one thousand pounds. This club has received this award for several years now which is testament to their many hours of hard work and imagination. The stand incorporated a cafe where refreshments were served and the monies raised are likely to be donated to the Air Ambulance . The Dorset Section did exactly the same. Well done to all.

At the show of course there always seems to be some oddball machines which have been long forgotten. This year was no exception. On the Dorset Section stand could be seen a 1951 Bond Minibyke. Shown by Herbie Light from Gillingham this machine has been within his family for at least 50 years. Totally unrestored I am afraid it is a non-runner at present. The design is quite unique considering it was conceived in 1947 and the wheels and most of the mechanical bits are concealed behind metal casings. The 125cc JAP two stroke powerplant was never going to excite the soul but in its day it would have provided adequate transport to go to work. I cannot vouch for the efficiency of the brakes however as at some time in its past a large dent was caused to the front mudguard which has been skillfully panel beaten back to the original shape.

The little bike drew lots of attention so I thought it should be the subject of my photograph this month pictured above. It

shows the bike on a plinth with its proud owner stood next to it. Not many such machines were made so this one must now be a very rare example, but how very nice to see it.

Bennetts Field Garage Ltd

“As we firmly believe service to others is the highest purpose”.

Bennetts Field Garage Ltd is

your Local authorised MOT, Repair, Maintenance and Servicing Centre. With their fully equipped garage and team of highly qualified vehicle technicians, they always strive to achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction. From carrying out full engine overhauls to routine maintenance works such as an oil change, they

welcome all kinds of jobs, no matter how big or small. They pride themselves on being your local vehicle technician in Wincanton.

With many years in this trade, they are passionate about offering an excellent customer experience and high-quality work every time.

From carrying out repairs to your car to changing a tyre, they offer a comprehensive range of mechanical services and always aim to exceed your expectations.

If you are looking for a car garage in Wincanton, call Bennetts Field Garage Ltd on 01963 33620.

Spring update from Lizzie Price Shading Solutions

AS WE head towards the summer months why not get ahead of the game and get your solar shading installed so you are

prepared to face those long hot summer days and nights.

At Lizzie Price Shading Solutions they offer a huge range of outdoor shading including Awnings & Verandas.

They offer the traditional Victorian & Dutch canopy as well as contemporary styles of Awnings in manual or motorised, in a vast range of fabrics. Their range of Verandas with either glass or polycarbonate roof, also available tinted create beautiful all-weather spaces to enjoy social evenings. (also suitable as Carport to store your car or caravan undercover).

They also have an extensive range of Plantation Shutters and Blinds available for internal shading and they specialise in Apex window shading. See their website www.lizzieprice shadingsolutions.co.uk for the full range or give them a call on 07879 992000 for a free no obligation home visit and quotation. They are your local Shading Specialists for inside and outside solutions based in North Cadbury and cover Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire.

Simple Spring Cleaning Tasks to Remember This Month

The first day of Spring was 20 March and with this in mind, home expert Mike Storey of UK Flat Roofing & Insulation Specialists has provided his list of simple spring cleaning tasks that are often left forgotten and have an impact on the appearance of your home.

Behind and Underneath Appliances: “The back and underside of your kitchen appliances are often left forgotten during your spring cleaning, with dust and grime build-up interfering with appliance parts and blocking proper air circulation.

Inside Cabinets: “Cabinets accumulate dust, food particles, spills and grime over time, making even new cabinets look old. Empty everything out of your cabinets, including the shelves and drawers.

Light Fixtures and Ceiling

Fans: “Dust will eventually accumulate on light bulbs, making your room look dingy, while dusty fan blades can trigger allergies when switched on, causing symptoms like a runny nose, itchy throat, sneezing and breathing difficulties.

Clean Your Windows: “Not only will washing your windows in Spring help bring in more light as the days get longer, but it will also reduce the likelihood of condensation occurring on the glass as the air inside becomes more humid, preventing dangerous mould growth.

Doormats: “Doormats will regularly track in dirt and debris from outside, especially while spring cleaning if you continuously throw things away. Simply take your doormat outside and shake it thoroughly to

Lizzie Price.

Shutterstock.com/r.classen.

remove loose dirt and debris.

Clean Out Your Bins:

“Remember to empty and wash out the bins in your home, which will remove odours and prevent pests from entering your property. Wash your bins with warm dishwashing liquid and disinfectant and let them dry completely before placing another bin liner to use again.”

R J Roofing -

All types of roofing

R J Roofing’s policy is to achieve standards of the highest quality and endeavour to guarantee the best, most cost effective solution for each individual project. If your roof is in need of maintenance, repair or even outright replacement, then R J Roofing can help.

Their roofing service caters for all types of tiles or slates,

available at a competitive price.

Delivering long lasting results and reliability, means you can enjoy peace of mind that your new or refurbished roof is of the highest standard. They can also attend to any leadwork that may need to be repaired. Modern UPVC replacement fascia boards, soffit boards and guttering can all be done quickly and with little disruption. www.rjroofinguk .co.uk.

Spring into the Garden

Luca's Garden

with Bridget Sudworth

IT’S QUITE difficult to get excited about Spring when writing this, obviously sometime before publication date, looking out onto a frosty garden! The only advantage at present is the fact that it isn’t raining! Luca has had his feet washed more times than he has been able to lick clean a roast dinner dish during the last few months and one can only be pathetically grateful that he is a dog with a teflon coat unlike our 3 previous German Shepherds who in spite of being the short haired variety, still had feathers on their legs. Luca seems able to shed mud though mostly in the car and other places like the house!!!

Before proceeding any further, I must make a correction on last month’s photographic inclusions: a kind friend pointed out that a shrub in the garden identified by me as Chimonathus (Wintersweet) is in fact Lonicera Fragrantissima or winter flowering honeysuckle. Thank you to my kind friend!

In spite of the cold overnight,

the days are warming up and the greenhouse is busy with seed trays and bursting with broad beans. Gardens need to be ready for the planting to come in April - such a busy and potentially exciting time of year. Warmer days to come will enhance the optimism of plantinggermination of seeds is strangely powerful and slightly miraculous. The sense of wonder about the longevity of seeds is always high in my mind at this time of year, reminded as I am of seeing a picture of poppies grown from seed 100 years old from WW1. They had been collected by a soldier in the trenches of the

perhaps, and found their way into family archives to reside quietly all that time in an attic box from where a present day gardener procured and planted them. Such is the wonder of Mother Nature. Planning the veggie plot is a comparatively easy exercise compared with the herbaceous border. I have been reading up on Gertrude Jekyll on what she calls ‘Seasonal planting’ and one useful piece of advice is to divide the seasons so you might plant potential flowering for a longish, deep border in blocks: thus March/April/May, then June/July followed by August/ September/October. Sounds easy and logical, doesn't it? The big problem is the battle between you and nature itself, the latter having a mind of its own which

becomes a real foe to you, being the emotional one, who may spot an unexpected configuration of growth that is particularly appealing and which subsequently jiggers the whole plan! Jekyll then adds that you need a large reserve of plants to fulfill the continuity throughout the season. To some extent, Monty Don manages to achieve this when he ‘pops’ things into an apparently already full flower bed. It seems amazing to watch the ease with which he does this but he, as with her, clearly knows the expected height and volume of the plant when mature and gets it right every time. Or almost always - there have been times when stuff has been hoofed out due to overcrowding or inappropriateness. It always helps when visiting gardens to

Luca on a mission.

Dicentra.

make a note of what is going on in beds that are on displayjotting down in a notebook perhaps the collection of massed plants that make an impressive show. Colour, shape, scent, height, personal preference, growing habit, exposure to weather/sunlight - so many things to consider. It’s quite a jolly question to ponder, however, so do not despair if you are lucky enough to have a long, deep bed to fill.

Another point to bear in mind is the relationship between house and garden. Some houses are positively embraced by their gardens standing in the centre of the plot while others may have patches stretching out on either side or a narrow section that requires a lot of interest to compensate if viewed from the house. Neighbours may need screening and roads require heavy fronting with growth to shield the house from fumes and nosy pokes! Washing lines may need blending in and working areas with wheelbarrows, compost bins, greenhouse, cold frames and stored garden materials may need to be portioned off. Anyone planning a garden from scratch will need to think of all these things even with a small amount of space to work with while existing gardens may benefit from reconsideration perhaps.

Of course, Gertrude Jekyll and Edwin Lutyens who worked together on so many spectacular configurations, had no problems armed with fat budgets and loads of space but the relationship between house and garden remains one worth reflecting on.

Our comparatively meagre border actually has some space in it now some of the bullies have been removed. But each part of every garden offers different opportunities as there may be

shady sections, sloping beds, rocky beds, hot and cool beds and shrubby understories so appropriate plants will be called for providing ultimately, the sort of interest that even a small garden can produce in time. Our 2.5 acre garden in N Herefordshire had ‘rooms’ surrounded by different types of shrubby, hedge plants - there were rugosas round 3 sides of the herb garden with Italian alder on the north side, yews round the rose circus, lollipop oaks round the triangle garden, mixed hedgerow round the mini arboretum and the bordering spine of 100 foot long rose walk was backed on one side by a viburnum collection.

It took at least 45 minutes to wander the whole plot which qualified it for the NGS scheme. This, however, we declined to join

Clematis Wesselton.

- we allowed weeds and any suggested ‘tweaking’ went against the grain. We simply remained as one of the highlights of the open garden season within the village.

I was very grumpy this morning while sorting through the cold frame to discover that a pesky squirrel who could obviously read the label, decided to unearth one of the conkers I planted last autumn and remove it from its flower pot, chew it about a bit then discard it. Nothing is sacred, is it?

Then the pheasant decided to

help itself to food from the actual bird table, wobbling wildly at height, rather than on the ground but the clever little robin has almost perfected his ability to hang onto the wire frame to peck at the fat balls. Our front porch was graced by the stiff corpse of a large rat yesterday (was it finally Samuel Whiskers?), possibly the result of our current war being waged against these rodents. As everyone knows, they are omnipresent but any degree of intimacy is quite unnecessary!

There’s never a dull moment in any garden so have fun!

Garden areas.

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

Fritillaries.

Spring into the Garden

Moggs of Wells (Engineering) Ltd

Moggs of Wells (Engineering) Ltd is based at Beardly Batch Depot on the outskirts of Shepton Mallet providing sales, servicing and repairs for a select range of garden machinery.

A selection of Ariens and Westwood ride-on mowers are available, plus Hayter and Toro pedestrian mowers, including several of their 60 volt battery/cordless models.

Cub Cadet ride-on machines are also offered, plus the Echo

range of chainsaws, brushcutters and hedge trimmers, powered by their renowned 2-stroke engines with Japanese build quality and a 5 year consumer warranty (2 years for professional use too).

Full support is available for engines from Briggs & Stratton and Kawasaki , with a comprehensive supply of spare parts in stock at all times. Any new machines supplied are thoroughly prepared and tested by experienced staff, taking the time to explain fully how to operate them safely. All service

and warranty work is carried out on the premises in a fully equipped workshop, and a collection and delivery service is provided for the larger machines.

Four Seasons Garden Design and Maintenance

For whatever gardening related work you are after, Four Seasons Garden Design and Maintenance can help.

They cover everything from just clearing and cleaning the garden path, taming an overgrown area, weeding, to soft landscaping and even fencing. A complete garden design, or just a little regular maintenance and grass cutting. Please contact Matt for a quote 07891 113152.

Sibley Landscapes

Sibley Landscapes are an established family business with a passion for beautiful gardens, operating throughout Somerset and surrounding counties. Their team of creative and highly skilled landscapers bring considerable experience and high quality workmanship to any project, whether it is a small residential or a large scale formal garden.

Sibley Contractors undertake the heavier end works, including excavations, drainage and environmental schemes.

Whatever your requirements Sibley Landscapes for help and advice.

Yenstone Walling

Yenstone Walling is a family run business based in South Somerset, offering a professional and reliable service with a smile where both small and large jobs are undertaken.

These include all types of stone walling and paving including boundary walls, retaining walls, garden features / projects, cladding of existing buildings / structures, steps, insurance work, lime and mortared walls, repairs, contemporary / traditional stone cladding and landscaping.

Free sunflower seeds for every child at Otter Garden Centres

Otter Garden Centres is giving children the chance to grow their own sunflowers this year - and the chance to win some fantastic prizes.

As part of the build up to National Children’s Gardening Week Otter is encouraging all children to get growing with a free packet of Thompson & Morgan sunflower seeds.

Parents and grandparents can collect the seeds from any of the company’s seven branches in the South West and South of England.

To claim the free seeds, parents or grandparents simply need to visit the garden centre website and fill in a form. An e-voucher will then be sent containing full information on how to collect the seeds instore. Each packet will

contain around 15 sunflower seeds and free advice will be provided on planting to ensure healthy, tall sunflowers.

Later in the year, participants will be asked to upload photos of their tallest sunflower if they would like to enter the competition for great prizes.

Full details can be found at ottergardencentres.com/free sunflower.

Right Plant, Right Place

With Julie Haylock

When I am not busy designing private gardens for clients, I am a listed speaker and regularly give talks and demonstrations to local gardening clubs and community groups.

I really enjoy visiting these organisations and meeting with members to discuss the topics of my talks and gardening in general. I have eighteen talks

booked over the course of this year, and I advertise these dates in the News Section of my website.

Gardening Clubs are always keen to invite new members, and you do not have to be a gardening expert to join. All the clubs we have visited have been such a friendly bunch and I am sure whatever your gardening knowledge you would be most welcome, so why not find a club that is local to you and try it?

One of the titles of the talks I deliver is ‘Planning your Garden Borders.’ The old saying “right plant, right place” ties in nicely with that subject, and simply means, if you give a plant the correct amount of light, water, and the soil conditions they need, then they should flourish for you.

First establish which way your garden border faces. Use a compass with your back to the house to check the aspect of each of your planting spaces. Next check the soil conditions in your garden by doing a simple PH test. These kits are in-expensive and can be purchased from your local garden centre or online.

South or West facing garden borders are in full sun for most of the day, so will suit Mediterranean style plants, such as lavender or salvias that will happily tolerate the heat, and once established require less watering than other garden plants. To give your border structure, include a Euphorbia, and depending on which variety you choose, will inject a splash of colour into your design with their zingy yellow-green foliage.

Sometimes we must consider tricky growing conditions, perhaps you have a North facing shady corner of the garden that is always damp or an area in the shade that dries out quickly. Well, here is a selection of plants you might want to look out for in your local garden centre for just those places.

Damp shade suits different varieties of spring plants. Hellebores are a great edition to a spring garden and look fabulous planted with daffodils and other bulbs. Another plant with a dramatic leaf pattern is Brunnera ‘Jack Frost.’ This heart-shaped leaf with silver veins looks just like Jack Frost himself has paid a visit to your garden and is an ideal choice for ground cover.

Dry shade, normally found under a tree or at the base of a wall, can be a tricky spot to find a plant that will get established. Ferns and hostas would make an excellent choice and once established will give you all yearround interest with interesting and varied leaf colour and texture.

If you are a Secretary of a Gardening Club or Community Group and would like me to come and talk to your group, please give call me on 07899 710168 or visit my website www. sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk.

Two examples of work completed by Yenstone Walling & Landscaping.

Otter Garden Centres are giving away free sunflower seeds as part of National Children’s Gardening Week.

The Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES

P. A. BAXTER

SUMMER! Yes, summer has arrived now that the clocks have 'sprung forward' and the lighter evenings are getting, er ... lighter! Winter skittle leagues are coming to an end, those who've been doing the winning raise their glasses in celebration...and the losers raise their glasses to drown their sorrows, whilst the rest resign ourselves to the next season in the same division. Never mind; it'll soon be time to start those summer skittle leagues, knockouts and outdoor pub games, won't it?

Just before we move onto that subject, I asked you all last month for the name(s) of any pubs with a ten-pin alley. No; it wasn't a trick question, and the first one that springs to mind for myself is the 'Sheeps Heid' (sic) in Edinburgh which I believe is also the only alley of any sort left in Scotland (unless you know better, of course) This has genuine 'oldstyle' 10-pins, but much nearer to home, the Colyton Skittle League in Devon is open to pubs with 9 and 10 pin alleys, using skittles in the style better known to us. It's true – check it out, and do attempt to find the link on YouTube with that archetypal

reporter, the late Fyfe Robertson, playing ten-pin skittles in that area. (I hope it's not lost but I can no longer locate it).

Moving on ... those of you lovely people out there in pub-land who has the dubious privilege of being a regular reader of this column will know how my passion has developed for Bat and Trap. Known mainly in Kent, and being able to trace its origins back about 500 years, this has all the ingredients for the most fun that anyone can have outside in the open air without taking your clothes off ... I'll leave you to do further research on the game, or if you are interested in getting started at your local pub then do feel free to pop me a line (email at the end). I must mention the amount of respect there is for the game, which is reflected in the blue plaque soon to be fitted in the memory of the founder of the first league.

I must go to the late Arthur Taylor for so eloquently reporting on the game in his books, which continues with me as Keith 'Jake' Janes does his bit in promoting the Canterbury League, and an inspiration to yours truly to 'keep at it' in this part of the West Country. When one learns that the rules made flood-lighting compulsory several years before league football, and that these days there are pitches with artificial turf, then that should give us all an idea of the scale on which the game is played.

Further North in our green and pleasant land is where the ancient game of quoits is more likely to be played, a subject which needs to be expanded on but again, I will leave it to you good people to follow it up at this time (and see my Pub Games group).

Another great game we play is loggats, a game for two as opposed to a team game, but which I can proudly boast to being part of its revival – it even gets played in Australia too! Go on, make a set – it's so easy (see my 'Pub Games' group on Facebook – do join!)

What beers have we sampled in this last month? Well, as we continue to skittle in the locale, it's been mainly run of the mill,

and all familiar to myself and our team. 'Doom Bar' seems to have invaded areas where others have feared to tread (the idea of Sharp's was to create a new national brand) and whilst it's not exactly an exciting beer, it certainly has more flavour than the keg beers of the past that were foisted on the drinker back in the 1970's. Who would like to forget 'Starlight' or 'Red Barrel'? Me, certainly. I was however, pleased to get pint of 'Doom Bar' in excellent condition at the Yeovil 'YESS' club (Yeovil Ex Service and Social, formerly the British legion) and was shown a bottle of a rather tasty looking beer from St Austell Brewery 'Black Square' - an imperial stout at a hefty 11%ABV (picture) but at a hefty price too of £8.95 (and I was driving) hence I declined. Doubtless I will have one sometime in the future, purely in the interests of research, of course.

All the games I mention this month have appeared in my column of this fine tome before. Sometimes this has been on multiple times over the years, and if one has the inclination, by going to the Visitor website then it is possible to go back many, many issues and catch up on not just this column but the complete magazine. Go on; you know you want to.

Only a few issues ago we gave some space to a fine outdoor game named Aunt Sally. To refresh the old grey matter, this involves hurling some hefty ash sticks at a 'doll' sat atop a metal pole and swivel at some 30 feet distance, the object being to knock the 'doll' cleanly off with no contact to the pole or swivel. Again, this is a team game with a long history and now is found exclusively in the county of Oxfordshire. Or rather; it's not.

Changing the header picture on my Pub Games group to one of the equipment for said game, I was thrilled to get a comment from Paul Kingston, who is fortunate enough to live in the Bridport area here in Dorset. Paul's research on the village history at nearby Litton Cheney

Sheeps Heid 10-pin alleys, Edinburgh.

Aunt Sally - the equipment.

The Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

revealed that the game was played at the local pub as far back as 1883 and 1884 during the village friendly society fetes. It was then described as "throwing at Aunt Sally" and then in 1889 as "Old Aunt Sally". Paul took it upon himself to get the kit together to play once again, and consequently great fun has been had by friends and customers of the White Horse pub.

Tremendous work, Paul! To my mind this is part of the excitement of pub games, particularly as when one can make profound statements about the location of a game, only to find that it continues in splendid isolation or in just a handful of hostelries in another part of the country. Even the late Arthur Taylor with his meticulous researching experienced this to his chagrin, but at the same time, his obvious delight!

Furthermore, research by Paul has revealed that darts, shove ha'penny and bar billiards have also been known at this pub and again he wishes to do his bit to get at least one of these typical pub games going again. We wish him well, and I look forward to paying The White Horse a visit and joining in the fun! (I've looked

at their website – it looks a great pub).

So like we said at the start –it's summer, so get into those pub gardens and play those games, pint in hand. Your pub needs you and you and I need that time with our friends to make living worthwhile, and where better to spend time than at a pub? Cheers!

© P.A Baxter 2024.

skittlealley@hotmail.com

Solution to March Sudoku

That Cathy Mathew of Charlton Horethorne is the proud owner of a poly tunnel for her BaaLambs plus a new dual-carriageway.

That with Somerset Council announcing that they will no longer supply sandbags to prospective flood victims, now is the time for all those who have been flooded in the past to get prepared.

That since her exhilarating Extreme Sports Car Driving Experience , 18 year-old Miss Millie Feakins of Stalham is contemplating a career move to Formula 1 Racing.

That North Cadbury Village Shop has a smart new sign.

That the Illegal Eagles had them 'dancin' in the aisles' at their recent live gig at Westland Entertainment Venue, Yeovil.

That congratulations go to Mike and Maxine Muxlow of South Petherton on their golden wedding anniversary.

That We Hears are now a regular feature in the Norton Sub Hamdon Parish Magazine

That students attending workshops at Ilminster Art Centre put their coats ON when entering.

That residents of Bradford Abbas can once again post letters. Please form an orderly queue. That bedtime came early for may pupils at North Cadbury C of E Primary School on Red Nose Day this year.

Vinny thinks he’s so funny ... but one day ...

Aunt Sally antique doll.

Quoits. A heavy and skillful game.

St Austell Black square imperial stout.

REMEMBER WHEN ... ... 30 YEARS AGO FROM

ARCHIVES

Vegetable matter

1994 saw the launch of a new project by the National Food Alliance to promote better eating habits by giving young people the chance to cook healthy food. The April 1994 Visitor reported that ‘a poll commissioned by the Alliance found that 93% of youngsters aged 7 to 15 know how to play computer games, 77% can use a CD, but only 38% can cook a jacket potato’, adding that ‘the campaign is helping to set up cookery classes for young people and has drawn up a fact pack for anyone who wants to get cooking’. This prompted the reporter to ask ‘why don’t our children still receive regular, good, practical cookery/home economics lessons at secondary school?’ The Government had claimed that its school performance league tables were ‘the latest stride forward in an ongoing information revolution in education’ but the writer’s view was that ‘this revolution is not succeeding as our children haven’t been given enough information to enable them to simply cook a potato’.

Property drive

The first-ever In-The-Sticks Property Roadshow was held in Castle Cary in April 1994. Previewing it in that month’s Visitor , readers were informed that ‘the event will provide the perfect opportunity for those interested in buying a country property not just in Somerset but anywhere in Britain’, with ‘a broad spectrum of advice available about buying and owning a country property’. Apparently ‘Land Rover have sponsored the weekend with three vehicles which means that should you wish to view properties for sale in the locality you will also be able to test drive a brand new Land Rover’. Can you recall there ever being a second roadshow? I can’t.

Looking good in vanilla

According to the Looking Good feature in the April magazine, ‘Spring is traditionally the time of new beginnings and re-birth, so after the dark winter nights and layers of woollies we are glad to see the new season’s fashions

in the shops’. So what was ‘new’ in 1994? ‘Colours this season are pale – such as Pampas, Light Sage, Vanilla and Cornflower Blue, but for those liking stronger colours Terracotta and of course Navy are also in evidence’, the writers revealed. And ‘styles of the 1960s are still very much to the fore – longer length skirts, waistcoats, skinny-rib jumpers and fit ‘n’ flair dresses’ (whatever were they? Perhaps you remember them and can explain).

In a league of its own

With the Horse Pond Inn in Castle Cary shortly to be transformed into a Coop store, reading the pub’s advert in the April 1994 Visitor certainly generated nostalgia. It was promoting its Summer 4a-side Skittles Knockout competition with the ‘highest 4-a-side skittle prize money in Somerset (maybe the country) for an entry fee of only £8 per team’. Of the £1,230 prize money, £440 was for the winning team, £140 for the runner-up, £200 for the first 27-spare and the rest for a variety of team and individual performances in sponsored rounds. The advert also publicised the Britannia Carnival Club Cabaret Night on Easter Saturday, and Cary Football Club’s Presentation Night on 16th April. Clearly the Horse Pond (formerly called the Britannia until 1992) was a busy community hub that a grocery store can never replace.

Call for common sense

The correspondence columns in the April 1994 Visitor letter from a Yeovil reader who claimed that the Conservative Government, ‘which the obviously supports’ (he asserted), sees ‘success as alien to their philosophy’. This prompted a swift rebuttal in the In Passing

editorial. ‘Not true!’ it exclaimed. ‘Neither do we support the Liberal Democrats or Labour or the Greens or anybody else. If anything our political philosophy is one of radical anarchy. If

possibly subscribe to that.’ With a General Election looming this year I suspect many readers will share that view from 30 years ago.

Roger Richards.

Cl ass ified Ads

Send details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit/Debit Card.

Personal

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May Deadline: 22nd April

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Storage

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

CONTAINER Storage 24/7 access. Outstanding rates. North Dorset. Tel: 07947 581541

Wanted

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REDUNDANT MOTOR MOWERS, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844

COLLECTIONS CDS and Vinyl LPs - must be excellent condition, most genres considered. Tel: 01458 834102/ 07704229979/email: tonyartony@aol.com

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www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Prize Crossword No. 449

Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO:

The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 22nd April.

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize for winning the Crossword is a £15 voucher to spend with any advertiser in this issue of The Visitor Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

Clues Across:

1. All knights in Malta begin operations initially thus [6]

4. A 355/113 with broken stair keeping bees [8]

9. Fight the home counties a little [6]

10. Strong publicity with black return in Paris for one of the Titans [8]

11. Rows, about right for those who exert themselves [6]

12. Most polished ties tangled with lower leg [8]

14. Bread crumbs on Scotsman with Scots person! [10]

18. Made braid facet conversion [10]

22. Ventilates joints with atmospheric floaters [8]

23. Senior monks have wrecked b-boats [6]

24. Gets dire disaster with the pressure cooker [8]

25. Short account in file is easy [6]

26. Where to fly off at with bronzed men [8]

27. Now, a long time in old sayings [6]

Clues Down:

1. Dog of a Frenchman! [8]

2. Thinks: “I sing ‘em a medley” [8]

3. Straddle the finest horse [8]

5. Pithy, scary, mind expertise [10]

6. Egg in a pickle but maturing [6]

7. Flags raised in the garden [6]

8. Number and sets about beliefs [6]

13. Briefly enclose a politician with male adults at junction with row of tents [10]

15. Blackleg troubadour sheath [8]

16. Bending low, spin about as well with first go [8]

17. Disturbed, so use Syd as hero [8]

19. Brigand, part within part [6]

20. Draw roughly, forward monster! [6]

21. Pure and pursued by ear [6]

Solution to Crossword 448

Winner of the March Crossword Is Nigel Leveridge of West Coker who chose to spend the £15 voucher at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock.