In the second half of the last century many towns and cities across the Atlantic were having their hearts destroyed by developments on peripheral greenfield sites. Inevitably the same has been happening here during the last five decades and often it has been easy to justify. With a growing population and shrinking size of households there has been an urgent need for more housing that simply can‘t all be shoehorned into town centres. House-building targets imposed by the Government on local authorities have forced them to continually allocate and approve greenfield sites for housing.
Changes in our industrial processes have resulted in many employers needing to relocate from old and cramped city centre sites to spacious modern business parks. Here they can provide a better working environment for their staff and hopefully increase the number of jobs they provide for the growing population. And it keeps their suppliers’ delivery trucks away from the centre. Most towns dating from before the age of the internal combustion engine can’t accommodate the number of motor vehicles using them today and need station car parks and edge-of-town park-and-ride facilities to encourage commuters and shoppers to use public transport.
What are harder to justify are the edgeof-town superstores, shopping malls, hotels, sports stadia, airports and the like. No doubt a plausible economic case can be made for them, but each must and will attract vast numbers of users to be profitable. And that means providing space for them to park their cars. Our land is a finite resource – we’re not going to get any more of it, and if the worst predictions about climate change turn out to be true we’ll actually have a lot less. Nibbling away at it to provide decent homes for people is understandable and can be acceptable, so long as they are genuinely affordable for local families. Paving vast acres to accommodate cars isn’t.
Yet the last and the present
Governments have both vowed to streamline the planning system to achieve quicker decision-making, which by implication means approvals. Remember the National Planning Policy Framework issued by the Government in 2012 which urged local authorities to be less restrictive and to support sustainable development. It included economic benefits in its definition of sustainable.
Our Visitorland paradise provides food, timber, minerals and water to meet the needs of the growing population. It offers us opportunities for healthy outdoor recreation and enriches us through its natural beauty. It is part of an eco-system on which our planet depends. But with each new out-of-town development it gets smaller. It’s too late to undo the damage that has already been done – and is still being done – but the time has come to stop any more. It has long been said that ‘you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone’. We still seem reluctant to learn the lesson. NN.
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The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Vicky’s Beauty Box in Long Sutton: Expert Beauty Care You Can Trust EXCITING NEWS for Long Sutton! Vicky’s Beauty Box, led by the highly experienced Vicky Dorfman, has opened its doors within Paloma Beauty and Wellness, offering top-tier beauty treatments. With over 35 years
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Vicky holds a range of advanced qualifications that set her apart. From laser treatments to skin peels and microneedling, and with a Level 7 qualification
in anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, and skin boosters, Vicky ensures every client receives high-quality, professional care.
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Vicky’s Beauty Box is in Long Sutton now. Not all Victorias keep secrets – Vicky’s secret is out, and it’s all about bringing top-tier beauty treatments to the heart of the Southwest.
Book your appointment today and discover what makes Vicky’s Beauty Box a standout addition to Southwest’s beauty scene.
Paloma Beauty and Wellness on Cross Lane Long Sutton welcome Vicky’s Beauty Box with a special offer of 15% off your first treatment.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Wincanton Christmas Faircelebrates 23 successful years on Tuesday 26th November A FANTASTIC Christmas shopping event comes to Wincanton Racecourse on 26th November 10am-5pm. In the marquee there will be up to 50 stalls selling unique products from independent traders and all day catering by Dorset Fine Dining. The aim is to offer a wide range of products from traditional to contemporary and everything in-between. There's something for everyone. There is ample free parking and tarmac avenues allowing easy access. Disabled parking almost to the door.
The huge marquee benefits from a raised, carpeted floor and heating, giving you a great opportunity to get all your Christmas shopping done in one place, under one roof, in the warm and dry.
The Fair is supporting the charity Children’s Hospice South West. Entry is only £5
£65,000 raised for charity in one day!
An incredible £65,000 was given to twenty local charities at Sherborne Classic and Supercar Show's recent presentation evening at Sherborne Castle – a record amount for the annual show.
Rory O'Donnell, chairman of the organising committee, said:
“The show is unique, taking place in the beautiful setting of Sherborne Castle thanks to the Wingfield Digby family, and with four different volunteer groups –Rotary, Round Table, Lions and Friends of the Festival - coming together to manage every aspect of running such a major event. This year we hosted modern supercars such as Lamborghini, Ferrari and Porsche through to classic cars up to 100 years old including this year's featured marque, Rolls Royce, and Jaguar. Courtesy of West Country Cars, Ben Collins (The Stig) was there, and set a time on the Brands Hatch simulator of 44.75 seconds. As one would expect, none of the racing driver aspirants among the crowd could match that time and the closest was 47.8, however a 10-year-old managed 49 seconds - just over 4 seconds behind. Perhaps another Lando Norris in the making!
We are very grateful to the sponsors particularly Atkins Ferrie whose support helps with the significant set-up costs and ensures that we can donate most of the admission fees to charity. We were delighted to celebrate the success of 2024's event and to host many representatives from the twenty worthy causes chosen by the committee. Our donations this year included a massive £10,000 to the Yeovil Opportunity Group”.
“As the only specialist pre-school in South Somerset, this money will help to change the lives of even more children and their families, by directly funding us to recruit and train an additional member of our SEND team”.
A full list of the charities having benefited is on the website along with further details of next years event visit www.classic-supercars .co.uk to find out more.
Kim Duller, CEO from the Yeovil Opportunity Group said:
Sherborne Classic & Supercar Show donate £65,000 to local charities.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Suprise visitor at The Cross Keys in Lyford-on-Fosse
Amid severe rainstorms on 8th October, the Cross Keys Inn at Lydford-on-Fosse received a surprise visit from a very soggy Amanda Holden and crew.
Amanda Holden’s Big Ride To Work sees Amanda Holden cycle from Bude, Cornwall, to the Heart studios in Leicester Square over the course of five days,
clocking up a gruelling six hours of cycling a day and covering over 250 miles. On Monday 7th October, Amanda began her challenge in Cornwall, before reaching Somerset and onward to Berkshire, Wiltshire and Surrey getting to Heart HQ in London’s Leicester Square on Friday 11th October – just in time for Global’s Make Some Noise Day
The TV and Radio personality took a much deserved rest on the Cross Keys sofa beside a blazing open fire before being presented with a Cross Keys T-shirt and Cap by owner David Grindley and staff.
“We wish the team all the very best in their fund raising
endeavours, we hope they won’t be too saddle sore, We will be keeping an eye on their progress, let hope they raise lots for the charity”.
Amanda Holden, who hosts Heart Breakfast alongside Jamie
Theakston, took on the challenge in aid of Heart’s charity, Global’s Make Some Noise , which is changing lives across the UK by funding vital projects delivered by small charities – tackling issues such as mental health, poverty and homelessness.
Monthly talks from the Arts Society Mendip
Tuesday 5th November; The Arts Society Mendip. The Car in Art and the Car as Art with Julian Richards. Julian will showcase the sometimes unsettling relationship between cars and art. From its introduction as a symbol of avant-garde art, through the Art Deco, to the present day when the car has become the canvas for the likes of Andy Warhol, Damien Hurst and Peter Blake. 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.
Tuesday 3rd December: The Arts Society Mendip. Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchock with John Francis who will explore the skills and techniques Hitchcock employed to produce his great films, including the horror classics Psycho and Vertigo. Some claim that Hitchcock’s films should be regarded as artistic masterworks. He remains the most studied and revered film director of all time. 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. They always welcome new members. The society are also holding a Day of Special Interest on Tuesday 19th November in Croscombe Village Hall from 10.30am – 3.30pm (it won’t be available on Zoom). There will be three lectures on the History of the Modern Orchestra with Raymond Holden who is Emeritus Professor of Music at the Royal Academy of Music. Tickets are £30 for non-members who are very welcome.
Further details, including information about becoming a member and full programme is available at www.theartssociety mendip.org.uk.
Win tickets to the Festive Gift Fair 2024 at NEC Birmingham Now in its 28th year, it remains one of the most popular Christmas Shopping events in the UK for a good reason!
325 STALLS IN ONE HALL! As always, this Christmas Fair
Amanda Holden at The Cross Keys Inn, Lyford-on-Fosse.
Mentioned in Dispatches
will be bursting at the seams with a colourful, eclectic mix of unusual stocking fillers and gift ideas for all ages and tastes. Festive food and drink to try before you buy and great Christmas decorations for your home and garden.
While browsing the stalls,
finding something exciting around every corner, you’ll quickly get into a Christmassy mood … welcomed by Father Christmas on his amazing sleigh, The Grinch, up to his usual menancing antics, Dinosaurs roaring, Christmas characters
Mentioned in
Dispatches
roaming AND the best line up of LIVE musicians from Retro to Jazz Bands and Folk to Choirs. OVER 100 NEW STALLS!
Shopping for presents or decorating your home, you won’t be stuck for ideas! So much to buy from pocket money
presents to beautiful handcrafted gifts ... there truly is something for everyone!
The Festive Gift Fair runs from 14th - 17th November and to win a pair of FREE TICKETS simply answer the following question:
What is Santa’s last name? Send answers to: The Visitor Festive Competition, PO Box 5522, Castle Cary BA9 0BP or via email info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk. Answers to be received by 11th November.
Wells GAC & The Brue Boys in concert
The popular Wells Good Afternoon Choir will present an evening concert at St Thomas’ Church in Wells on Saturday November 2 at 7.00pm (doors open 6.30pm).
The choir is led by Ruth Jenkins with over 60 enthusiastic members who are busy preparing their programme for the concert which will support the ‘I See You’ Charity.
The Good Afternoon Choirs were started by Bath-based Grenville 15 years ago and there are now 32 across the South West of England, as well as London, with over 1,200 members ‘Singing in the Afternoon’.
There are no auditions to join and members of the Wells Good Afternoon Choir come from in and around the area, they meet every Tuesday afternoon from 2pm-4pm at St Thomas’ Church, in Wells. Everyone is welcome to come along to meet Ruth and the members of the choir.
Mentioned in Dispatches
The special guests for the concert will be The Brue Boys, a male choir from Baltonsborough whose repertoire includes a wide variety of music from classical pieces to songs from the shows, sea shanties, folk songs, Zulu chants, rock’n’roll and much more.
Tickets priced £8 are on sale from gac.ticketlight.co.uk or by calling 0844 888 9991 – they will also be available on the door on the evening of the concert.
Ruth said: “It is going to be a great evening of music and we are absolutely delighted to be sharing the stage with The Brue Boys.”
An invitation to sing for joy
On Saturday 23 November, brand-new choir Chorale21 is hosting its first Come & Sing event in Cheddar where Wellsbased musical director Matthew Redman will lead singers from across mid-Somerset through a selection of choruses from everyone's seasonal favourite, Handel's Messiah.
The venue is the new Catholic Church Community Hall in Tweentown (BS27 3HU) and the day will run from 11.30am to 5pm. The fee of £20 will include afternoon tea and score hire. Places are limited so, for details of how to pay online and reserve your slot, please complete the Contact Us form on
www.chorale21.org.uk. Matthew's workshops are animated, ground in solid musical understanding, yet fun and uplifting, so come prepared for a joyous afternoon with plenty of rousing tunes and cake!
Creative Mere weekend
16th & 17 November
Why not join in for the third Creative Mere weekend at Grove Building and Mere Lecture Hall. Have you ever wanted to learn how to knit, work with wood, make your own cards? Or have you ever wondered how to create a fishing fly, wax a jacket or plait your hair?
Well! this is your opportunity to learn a new hobby from one of the talented craft and art people in Mere. Don’t miss it!
Pottery Parties at Somerset
Brick and Tile Museum
The Somerset Brick and Tile Museum in Bridgwater is launching pottery parties for adults and children. These new, bespoke parties combine craft, creativity and celebration set within the unique space of the Museum. There are two party packages to choose from; a pottery painting party or a craft with clay party. Each is tailored for adults or children and includes a special piece to take home.
Adults and young artists will feel like a VIP guest at these pottery parties with exclusive access to the Museum which features the last bottle-brick kiln in Somerset. The Museum will be furnished with party décor and soft-drinks provided. There will be plenty of ways to express creativity through a variety of clay crafts on offer. The Museum’s
party host will be on hand to guide guests through the activities and ensure everything runs smoothly.
activities with time to explore the kiln, craft with clay and play some party game classics. There are two exciting party packages for children. The ‘Paint Your Own Pottery’ package includes 1 hour 30 minutes of enjoyment. Guests will choose something special from a collection of pre-fired, bisque ware, then have fun designing THE BUT TERCROSS TEAROOMS
The children’s parties are perfect for gatherings of 8 – 14 party goers (ages 7 and up), and provide a birthday to remember, as well as a special piece to take home. Children can get fired up with friends and enjoy fun and
The Brue Boys.
Mentioned in Dispatches
and decorating it with an array of colours and glazes. These colourful keepsakes will then be gloss-glazed and fired in the kiln.
The ‘Marvellous Makes’ package includes 1 hour of getting messy with clay. Children will work alongside each other to shape and craft a chosen design out of clay. The finished creations will then be fired in the kiln.
The adult parties are set within the Museum’s workshop, perfect for gatherings of 8-20 people. These memorable events provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate personal milestones with friends and express
creativity in clay. There will be time to mingle in the Museum and enjoy a craft activity before getting creative with clay.
There are two exciting party packages for adults. The ‘Signature Make’ package includes 2 hours of pottery
painting. Guests can paint their chosen signature piece from a collection of pre-fired, bisque ware, then design and decorate it using a range of glazes to create a colourful keepsake. The painted pottery pieces will then be glossglazed and fired in the kiln. The
‘Clay Make’ package includes 1 hour 30 minutes of hands-on clay crafting. Guests can unleash their creativity and enjoy creating something memorable alongside friends. The clay creations will then be fired in the kiln.
The Museum’s Pottery Parties are available outside of the Museum’s standard opening hours, 10.00 am – 4.00 pm on Tuesdays. For more information visit somersetbrickandtile museum.org or call Marie on 01278 426088.
Christmas at Stourhead: A magical trail with new lights for 2024 – after-dark festive fun for everyone
29 November – 1 January
Created by award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers and firmly positioned within the seasonal calendar, Christmas at Stourhead , Wiltshire has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way.
Discover hundreds of colourchanging lights stretching out into the distance across the lake, huge feathers floating high into the night sky, sparkling tunnels of light and illuminations that fill the air with all the colours of the rainbow.
Grab a seasonal snack from one of the hand-picked street food vendors who bring an indulgent twist to tempting treats on offer.
Complete your walk under the stars with a festive spiced winter warmer, hot chocolate or toasted marshmallow and share it with someone special.
Find out more and how to book at https://premier.ticketek .co.uk/shows/Show.aspx?sh=SHT RAILO24.
YOUR ADVERT HERE could be reaching an estimated 75,000 readers
The Somerset Brick and Tile Museum in Bridgwater is launching pottery parties for adults and children.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Somerset Council Agrees Vacant Shepton Mallet Building Can Be Used By Artists
A local charity has been granted use of an empty office block owned by Somerset Council to turn into Shepton Mallet’s first dedicated artist studio facility, offering 24/7 studios to artists for only £1 per square foot per month, including all bills.
Interim Spaces , who first approached Somerset Council in 2023 to use the former Registry Office for Births, Deaths, and Marriages, has transformed the property into a vibrant hub for creativity. The building, closed since 2017 (except for a brief
reopening in 2020 as a Covid walk-in centre), is now home to 15 artists and makers from Shepton Mallet and surrounding
towns. Due to its popularity, demand has extended as far afield as Frome and Bristol.
The new community was delighted to have the support of Showerings, a national brewer based in Shepton Mallet, who provided Babycham and their new range of premium Brothers cider for a painting and decorating day, with a paletteload of paint very generously donated by Farrow & Ball.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“I am delighted that we have been able to support this venture which aligns so well with our cultural priorities - celebrating Somerset, supporting our economy, and connecting our communities through accessible art and culture.”
Interim Spaces - a vibrant hub for creativity.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Heritage Café welcomes its first guests
The Morlands and Baily’s Heritage Café is open for visitors!
The Heritage Café is a central part of a local industrial heritage project based at the Red Brick Building in Glastonbury, and it opened for the first time at the end of September. A group of about twenty people came along and the atmosphere was very convivial.
The project – funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund - celebrates the experiences and memories of people who worked at Morlands or Baily’s, two large sheepskin processing and manufacturing companies in the Beckery area.
The Heritage Café is a monthly opportunity for people to come together, socialise and reminisce about their time working at Morlands or Baily’s.
“We wanted to create a place where people felt comfortable and could meet up with friends and
former colleagues,” Alison Horgan, the Heritage Project Coordinator commented.
The initial Heritage Café session was very well attended, with some people who had been involved in earlier events as well as several new faces. She added “It is wonderful that new people are still coming forward to share their memories of Baily’s and
Morlands. It was lovely to see people recognising old workmates whom they hadn’t seen for years – there was a lot of chat and laughter. We are sure this will continue and grow over the coming months.”
As well as being a place where people can share their memories, the Heritage Café plays an important role in addressing
loneliness and isolation among older people. One of the guests commented:
“It’s nice to have something different on, and I’m glad to come back to the building where I used to work. I’ve met my old boss here today!” Some visitors also went to look at the art exhibition being held in the Zig Zag Building –another part of the former Morlands factory. Thanks to the funding from the Heritage Fund, older people in Glastonbury and surrounding areas will be able to meet up every month for the next year.
The Heritage Café will continue to happen every last Friday of the month; future dates are November 29th, January 31st, February 28th, March 28th and April 25th.
For more information, look at the Red Brick Building website www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk or find them on Facebook. You can also drop them a line by email at heritage@redbrickbuilding.co.uk.
THIS SIZE ADVERT COSTS JUST £15 PER MONTHShouldnʼt you be advertising here?
Visitors chatting over coffee and cake at the Heritage Cafe in September.
November Notice Board
CASTLE CARY
Charity bingo Saturday 9th
November, at Caryford Hall BA7 7JJ Doors open 6.30pm, Eyes Down 7.30pm Amazing prizes. Please bring cash.
Local Folk Concert, All Saints' Church Castle Cary, Sunday 17th November, 4pm. Tickets £10 from the Market House or Book Shop.
MARSTON MAGNA
Indoor Car Boot/Table Top Sale
Sunday 24th November 10am1pm, Marston Magna Village
New Coach Holiday Programme Launch at Vickery’s Luxery Travel ESTABLISHED local coach operator Vickery’s of Martock has teamed up with tour operator Leisuretime by Toureasy, to launch an exciting range of short
Hall. Sellers from 10am - £5 a table, buyers - from 11am - £1 per person entry. Teas and Coffees available. Email: bookings.marstonvillagehall@ gmail.com to reserve your table in advance.
ILMINSTER
"Life is not still" an exhibition of print, paint and stitch inspired by the flora along the Kennet & Avon canal. Ilminster Arts Centre 12th-23rd November.
ADVERTISE your December event here for only £5 for 20 words, 30p per extra word. Please email: info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk or tel: 01963 351256. The December deadline is 18th November.
breaks and holidays by coach for 2025.
Departing from convenient local pick-up points, the launch programme includes 2 to 10 day trips to destinations across the UK and Europe with 2-day minibreak prices starting at just £169.
So, you think you know your Pop music, do you ?
By
John Osborne
Answers can be found on page 35
1) Who said “I close my eyes and count to ten” in 1968?
2) Which Beatles song contains the lyric: “He's as blind as he can be, just sees what he wants to see”
3) Name the male who was No. 1 in the British charts 20 years ago in November 2004 with “Just Lose It”
4) Name the band who told us about “The Diary of Horace Wimp” in 1979
5) Who said “We Built This City” in 1985?
6) “Sing it Back” was a 1998 hit from whom?
7) What rockers sang about “My Brother Jake”?
8) Who sang about “Sylvia’s Mother” for their first ever hit in 1972?
9) Turnstiles, The Stranger, Glass Houses; All albums from whom?
10) Who had the (Globally) best-selling single of 2019, which was entitled “Bad Guy”?
Anorak bonus question: Name the album that the track in Q:4 appeared.
Great Quotes in Music (164)
"We all have idols. Play like anyone you care about, but try to be yourself while you're doing so." - B. B. King
In addition, Leisuretime by Toureasy is offering Early Bird savings of up to £60 per person on its 2025 holiday programme, whilst stocks last.
You can also win 2 free seats on a festive Day Trip to Winchester or Exeter in December just by signing up to their e-newsletter in November. More information is available online at www.leisuretime.co.uk or you can give them a call on 029 2025 7777. Alternatively, the lovely team at Vickery’s will also be pleased to help.
Autumn dating with Alison at Just Somerset Introductions
Now is an ideal time as we go into Autumn, to still get outdoors as the weather allows to meet new people, make new friends and maybe that someone special. It’s a relaxed way to meet people and broaden your social circle.
We are an Introduction Agency for single people who offer one to one introductions and social
events throughout the group. We offer a confidential, personal, professional service. We are part of the Just Introduction Group and you can meet members across the group. All members are interviewed in their own home and ID checked. For more info and testimonials of our successes, please look at the website and give us a call! What’s stopping you - and what price is happiness?
Sudoku by T. M.
Solution to October Sudoku on page 35 Fill
Muchelney Pottery:
All fired up for Christmas Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd November 10am - 4pm A SHOPPING event to help you get a head start on your Christmas gift buying! Join Muchelney Pottery for a warming Burrow Hill mulled cider and homemade biscuits while you browse new work by West Country makers as well as all the
new pots from their last kiln firing of 2024! Artists on show: Signed pots by Mark Melbourne, Nick Rees, John Leach & Nic Harrison. There’s new handmade shaker boxes by Andrew Spilsbury and new handmade willow baskets by Lin Lovekin. Handmade silver jewellery by Holly Webb, hand carved wooden utensils and chopping boards by Ben Leach,
handmade soaps by Lucy Litchfield, metal garden stakes by Chris Kampf plus exclusive gift sets and special offers - they’d love you to join in the fun! (The show continues through November & December).
Muchelney Pottery, nr Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DW. Visit www.johnleachpottery.co.uk or email info@johnleach pottery.co.uk.
Carousel, Crewkerne
Carousel is an Arts and Crafts collaborative shop in Crewkerne where over 60 local artists and crafters, who live and work locally, display their work. They provide a variety of unique high quality local products at reasonable prices. Christmas is
on its way and the artists and crafters are very busy elves, making lots of wonderful items to bring seasonal cheer. Gorgeous, natural soaps, bath products and candles. Jewellery from six different producers, natural hand spun wool and cosy woollies, including scarves, gloves, blankets and shawls. They have lovely handmade children’s clothing, glass, carved wood and ceramics and a plethora of bears, bunnies and mice. And of course, paintings, prints and cards; pop in and see!
Sports of Bond Street
S ports of Bond Street is an independent sports specialist shop which has been trading since 1970. It’s the only specialist sports shop in Yeovil town centre, opposite Boots, just off Middle Street.
You’ll find a complete range of clothing, footwear and equipment, and they are happy to help you with personal preferences. A racket re-stringing service is available. They are kit stockists of Yeovil Town Road Running Club and Yeovil & Sherborne Hockey Club. Call in and see their extensive range of sports equipment at competitive prices with an elite service.
Inside Muchelney Pottery.
They have Christmas presents for all your sporting family and friends plus Gift Vouchers are available to help with your festive gifts. Open Tue - Sat 9.30am4.30pm.
The Middlewick, Glastonbury
Visit the Award Winning Middlewick Farm Shop and Café this festive season, where their locally sourced dishes are served alongside breathtaking views. Loved by locals, it’s the perfect spot for a festive gathering with friends, family, or colleagues. For a truly special day, why not visit their tranquil spa before or after
your meal? Located on ancient ley lines, the spa offers a peaceful retreat, promising a unique and revitalising experience. Whether you're dining, relaxing, or both, they invite you to enjoy the magic of The Middlewick, where great food and the serenity of nature come together.
Sports of Bond Street.
Ward & Sibley - the jewellers of Yeovil.
Inside Carousel of Crewkerne.
The Bigger Picture With Bridget Sudworth
WE WERE arrested by styles of architecture on a recent and first ever journey through Bridgwater, consisting of large scale period housing of different types obviously relating to local industry. Terraces and estates of houses are so often a giveaway in terms of telling tales of employment though now so often, relative to an industry long abandoned. Bridgwater in particular has always been a centre of much productivity and is perhaps the largest industrial town in Somerset formerly aided by the Docks on the R. Parrett in the days when water transport was vital and with close links to South Wales. These days, it benefits from being close to the M5 which has allowed the town to morph into a modern hub. It also used to be famous for a really disgusting smell which assailed you while passing by on the motorway - maybe related to the manufacture of plastics. Further along the motorway, the wonderful Wicker Man still strides off to nowhere and a sneaky life-sized camel peeped out from bushes, now long gone, that may have been a relic from one of the Carnival floats. Sadly, Bridgwater has recently been cited as a centre of social disorder making it less attractive than is fair though it’s by no means the only town in the UK to suffer
from ubiquitous drug and aggressive youth problems.
It’s easy to recall many places on the course of travelling round Britain that tell stories. Think of the obvious delights of Port Sunlight built by Lord Lever, a philanthropic industrialist who nurtured a taste for the Edwardian Tudor for housing the workers in his soap factory, or the ranks of miners homes, two up two down and a bit out the back lining the streets of Welsh valleys. Take Deal in Kent, the former 18th century capital of smuggling with houses jumbled together linking secret passageways for secreting barrels of liquor and other goodies from abroad, to say nothing of the ranks of houses in the old cotton towns up north, row upon row of them all with backyards, outside lavs, and cobbled walkways where the wooden clogs clattered their way to work of an early morning.
The history of Britain is told through its period housing and so much is still there for all to see and reflect upon having adapted so well to modern needs. Cathedral Closes like Salisbury and Wells tell different stories of wealth associated with Diocesan dictats - sumptuous houses in quiet gardens built to shelter clerics of one level or another and in the case of Wells, a whole
The Dell - Port Sunlight model village Merseyside. Image: Shutterstock.com/steve bridge.
Ecclesiastical Village providing housing for ministers of the Cathedral that dates back to medieval days. And there’s little to touch the average Victorian vicarage that in sheer size, can often be larger than the church with which it was once associated but now much sought after and celebrated as desirable housing in the pages of Country Life! Vicars were not only busy in the church but also at home producing large families so needed plenty of room!
Railway architecture is another giveaway and frequently one comes across what was once a station master’s house or rail sheds now converted into dwellings. Strange historic records can often be found, like the blue plaque on Frome station celebrating the walk taken by Leonard Woolf from the home of friends in Mells where he was
staying to Frome station to catch the train back to London with the sole intention of asking Virginia Stephen for her hand in marriage.
That is a lovely bit of serendipity because in Mells, one can admire the Lutyens ‘bus stop’, as we call it, built in the very centre of the village, actually a small building to mark a water source for the benefit of the village beside the Mells Stream. Sir Edwin Lutyens was a good friend of the Horner family from the Manor House who commissioned him to design a plinth for the equestrian memorial of their son lost in WW1. Lutyens designed many WW1 memorials, the Cenotaph in London being the most famous though ultimately he moved on from designing ‘bus stops’ when schemes like New Delhi and a possible new cathedral for Liverpool came his way though the latter never reached fruition. Additionally, Mells church is a fund of celebrated art and design providing a real surprise for visitors not expecting such treasures and includes some unexpected residents resting in the churchyard like the poet, Siegfried Sassoon. Somerset, and indeed, the UK in general, is richly rewarding to visit.
The Thiepval Memorial on the Somme is perhaps, in my opinion, Lutyens greatest triumph and particularly special to me as an uncle, never known to me, is one of the 72,000 names inscribed there - an older brother of my father, 8 years old at the timekilled on his 20th birthday on July 1st, 1916. The First Day of the Battle of the Somme - it’s a very sobering place to visit. It’s unbelievable to reflect on that number of dead who may just have been merely ‘dog tags’ left on the battlefield with no otherwise identifiable remains to bury.
Lutyen's 'Bus stop', Mells.
Back yards of old brick built terraced houses in the north of England. Image: Shutterstock.com/Marmalade Photos.
Memorial for Edward Horner, Mells Church.
November is the month for Remembrance so these thoughts are particularly relevant at this time.
On a lighter, far lighter, subject - don’t you just go mad with packaging these days? Broken fingernails, cut fingers, definitely lost temper, spilt flob all round the kitchen walls can accompany the opening of such ordinary everyday things as a bottle of milk - and heaven help you if you break the ring pull on a tin of sardines! My greatest triumph is cutting the end off a tube of apparently finished handcream to find at least another 3 weeks worth of anointing down at the bottom which lasts nicely with the cut-off end slipped back on the tube to stop it going off. One has to be really wiley to overcome the hazards of 21st living!
Winter will certainly be ‘nudging in’ by the time this is printed. Shocking to realise that Christmas is a few weeks awaywhere has the year gone? I have been sorting out the large pots in the garden in an attempt to plant some new bulbs. Old bulbs, still looking vital however, have emerged so it’s one step forward and three back as new places have to be found for them to naturalise should they choose to bloom next Spring. It’s a slow job! Finally, our new dog did not stay the course entirely due to my misjudgement. A very remarkable animal, lively, nosy, clever and quite loving, proved more than we, particularly me, were able to manage but our kennels were immensely sympathetic and to my huge relief, were able to rehome her immediately with a far more suitable couple. The family has to match the dog as well as vice versa and we are better these days with something small, gentle, old and possibly boring as my husband puts it, who will get on with our little family dog who visits from time to time. A new dog will find us ‘ere long.
Family Health with
Jenna Evans
THIS MONTH we're back on our tour of pharmaceuticals with a look at antidepressants.
Two main groups commonly used to treat depression are the SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). Both work by inhibiting the resorption of one or more neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are signalling molecules within the body. Serotonin influences sleep, pain, mood and memory and norepinephrine is involved in focus, alertness and memory. The idea is keeping the molecules circulating improves cognitive function. SSRIs include Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline) and Celexa (citalopram). SNRIs include Effexor (venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (duloxetine). General side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth and sexual dysfunction. As always read those drug inserts and discuss concerns with your GP! There is a more serious condition called 'serotonin syndrome' which can be life threatening. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures, muscle rigidity, high
temperature and irregular heart beat. It's triggered by too much serotonin from overdoing a drug, to a poor combination or combining a drug with a supplement that influences serotonin such as Serotone 5HTP, Tryptophan and St John's Wort and Rhodiola. Some of these may be useful as an alternative to antidepressant but definitely don’t take together! That's quite a useful rule anyway – if you're on a drug for a particular issue, don't take a supplement to do the same thing.
Bear in mind too, that these classes of drugs are often used to treat other disorders – especially those involving pain such as fibromyalgia, PMS and arthritis so you may not even be aware you are on an antidepressant. What may be really important to address is that playing with neurotransmitters may not be necessary at all. An imbalance in brain chemistry has long been touted as the reason for depression and other mood disorders. This has never been proven and actually a data analysis in 2022 concluded there was no evidence depression was caused by low serotonin levels. Search for Professor Joanna Moncrieff & Serotonin to see the full study. This evidence begs a lot of questions including how we came to accept the notion of a chemical imbalance in the first place? What are the drugs doing
if not correcting this? Are there better ways to engage with our mental health?
•Jenna is a Holistic Health Coach and creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty UK’. Jenna is also a multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil.
To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.
Thiepval Memorial, Somme.
Needful Things
THIS IS the 26th Christmas at Needful Things of Castle Cary! 26 fun-packed years of amazing Christmas displays and everything you could possibly need to make your Christnas season special. This year, to mark the milestone they have decorated 26 Christmas trees in their store! Come and browse the traditional, contemporary and even totally 'wacky' themes throughout 3 rooms.
There's something for everyone, from traditional red/green/gold to a magical woodland forest. There's blue & white, there's a wonderful folk art tree, a gardener's tree and a farmer's tree and of course their now famous hand painted characters: Santas, Nutcrackers, Fairies and Angels. Plus every animal imaginable, even Dinosaurs this year! A fab range of stocking fillers, secret santa gifts and crackers too. So whatever your
needs, from winter clothing to winter wonderland, do pop in and take a look!
Castle Cary Guitar Lessons
Castle Cary Guitar Lessons is run by John Calcott, offering guitar instruction with over 20 years of experience teaching in schools and privately.
John works with students of
all ages and abilities, providing expert guidance to help them achieve their musical goals.
For more information or to book lessons, visit the website www.johncalcott.com.
Flowers
& Home
Christmas is fast approaching, when we begin to deck our homes with twinkling lights, fresh swags of foliage and panic buy – well almost everything! At Flowers & Home Somerset they will be designing festive arrangements to adorn your Christmas day table and hand made door wreaths to welcome your guests, in a range of sizes and designs to suit your festive theme!
The use of the door wreath on our homes, can be traced back to the Ancient Greek period, when
John Calcott.
‘wreaths’ were used as a symbol of victory in battle or to show power and wealth, these were known as ‘coronas’. This tradition was continued into the 19 century and were more commonly know as ‘welcome rings’.
The Beauty Salon
The Beauty Salon in Castle Cary opened earlier this year by the highly skilled and fully qualified beauty therapists Zosie & Ilisabeta, where they welcome you to there space of calm serenity. With many quality treatment offerings from your traditional beauty services, advanced facials, to the most relaxing massages and tailored bespoke treatment plans. The Beauty Salon, Castle Cary also holds clinic dates for a highly skilled Osteopath, Aesthetic nurse and their newly joined Jikiden Reiki practitioner. These two friendly beauticians are fully qualified, experienced, and offer a range of quality treatments at affordable prices for you to feel pampered and rejuvenated. There is a range of facials to suit all skin types, massages, Hopi Ear Candling, Ear Piercing, and of course if you're looking to get glam for the party season ahead with many
packages available including eyelash lifting, tinting, brows, nails and tanning there is something to suit you. Pop in and see them at 6 High Street, Castle Cary BA7 7AN, Open Mon-Fri 95, till 8pm on Tue & Thurs by appointment, Sat 9-3, email: contact@thebeautysaloncastlecary.co.uk.
Cary Kebab & Pizza
Opposite the Horsepond you will find a great takeaway at 4 Fore Street. You can now order your favourite meals online from lovetakeaway.com or download the app.
They offer a wide selection of takeaway foods to choose from on their menu, kebabs, pizzas, burgers, wraps etc. including kids meal deal.
Delivery is available from 5pm -10pm (minimum spend £12).
Their delivery areas are within a 7 mile radius of Castle Cary to include: Ditcheat, Alhampton, Bruton, Sparkford, Queen Camel, Galhampton, North Cadbury and South Cadbury, and delivery
charges apply. Open every day 3pm - 11pm. Tel 01963 359666.
Schimmel Hardware
Jan and the team at Schimmel Hardware are delighted to be running such an important and very useful shop in Castle Cary’s main Fore Street.
Between them they have many years experience in the shop, garden, kitchen, and fixing things around the home, and provide you with friendly expertise and service.
They continue to provide Dulux paint mixing, key cutting, smokeless fuel, extensive kitchenware, and of course that one odd lightbulb.
DELIVERY FROM 5pm-10pm
This time of year they expand their excellent range of tools and seasonal gifts for all the family, including stocking fillers too! Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-5pm 01963 350316.
and
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
The Beauty Salon opened in 2024 and offers a variety of treatments.
Flowers & Home will be designing festive arrangements for adding a bit of magic to your Christmas table.
Phillips Tyres.
As Raw As - artisan chocolate made in Somerset
As Raw As is an artisan chocolate company based in the heart of Somerset specialising in Dairy Free Unroasted Chocolate. As Raw As chocolate is only made with organic, natural and ethically sourced ingredients; lovingly handmade in small batches to ensure the highest possible quality.
All products are made without using any Dairy, Refined Sugars, Gluten, Soy or anything artificial. They are also vegan friendly. Made in Emily’s dedicated kitchen which also handles nuts, peanuts and sesame. They offer a range of
Beads & Friends have a wide range of festive decorations and gift ideas in stock.
Handmade ‘Raw’ Chocolates, ‘Raw’ Fridge Bars, Bespoke ‘Raw’ Puddings, and Monthly Subscriptions. All packaging is eco-friendly … no plastic in sight! Emily now runs Workshops from her Chocolate Kitchen.
As Raw As is supporting www.onetreeplanted.org (http://www.onetreeplanted.org/) so every order helps to reforest the planet! Further info please email: info@asrawas.com.
Cooper & Tanner
With 2024 drawing to a close, now is the right time to think about a move in the New Year. Why not pop into the Castle Cary office in Regent House on Fore Street to have a chat with the team to see how they can help you realise your dream home in 2025.
Established for over one hundred years, Cooper and Tanner are well respected estate and letting agents, auctioneers and surveyors operating from
twelve locations throughout Somerset and Wiltshire.
The Castle Cary office is headed up by Nathan Sinden, whose friendly and knowledgeable team deal with all aspects of selling and letting properties in the town and surrounding villages, why not give them a call on 01963 350327 or email castlecary@cooper andtanner.co.uk.
The Hut at Shepherds Gate
Situated on Wyke Road, just up the lane off the main A371 road, you will find The Hut at Shepherds Gate. This is a fantastic little farm shop that started from a basket at the end of the drive.
Here they have a selection of very fresh, home-grown vegetables, with 0 carbon footprint as it arrives at this shop via wheelbarrow. Everyday there are fresh eggs, laid by the hens you can see from the carpark. They are now stockists for local produce from The Jam Shed, (jams, chutneys, preserves) local honey, Wyke Farms cheese and butter, Thorner’s sausages, meats and pies.
Christmas has arrived at The Hut with stockings, decorations, jars of pickled eggs and onions, local gifts and wrapping paper.
The Hut is open Tue, Wed, Thur 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-4pm, (closed on Mon & Fri). The gate is open from 8am-10pm for the Bruton Dairies milk machine, eggs, logs and kindling. Visit www.shepherds gatehut.co.uk.
Inside The Hut at Shepherds Gate.
Fosse
GLASTONBURY BUSINESS FOCUS
Mind Ya Beeswax
TUCKED AT the back of The Gauntlet, a Glastonbury premier shopping thoroughfare, with a carpark close by, is a trendy yet traditional candlemaker. They create a range of candles and essential oils at affordable prices, using sustainable raw materials for a better quality and improved burn time. Beeswax is the oldest form of candle making with the longest burning time and without any chemicals.
Create your own gift baskets and include customised candles.
Orders are welcome via the website www.mindyabeeswax .com.
Tor
Multimix - Mixing with the Best
Tor Multimix would like to thank all their customers who have helped make the move to new larger premises a great success. Thank You!
From their new premises in Dyehouse Lane, Glastonbury you can collect a range of aggregates, either loose or in bulk bags, ready mixed concrete and floor screed
Create your own gift baskets and include customised candles at mindyabeeswax.com
for any size job. Tor Multimix offer a quality delivery service throughout Somerset and the surrounding counties for all your ready mixed concrete, sand
cement floor screed, liquid floor screed, aggregates and concrete pump hire requirements. Give them a call on 01458 830635, option 1.
Float Glastonbury
Floating is a fresh take on a timeless principle of zeroing in on the human experience and finding balance in stillness.
Floatation therapy is a form of sensory deprivation achieved through floating in a tank filled with positively buoyant Epsom water, removing most effects of gravity on the body. External stimuli are reduced by keeping the water at body temperature, the room dark and silent.
Floating Benefits:
- Extinguish burnout and improve sleep
- Accelerate and maximise physical recovery
- Mental and emotional restoration
- Destress and process emotions
- Alleviate aches and pains
- Physical alignment
If you would like to find out more or book a session, give them a call or check out the website www.floatglastonbury.com.
STREET BUSINESS FOCUS
B Brows & Beauty
DISCOVER and feel your best self at B Brows & Beauty in Street. A 5* professional beauty clinic with dedicated, experienced and caring professionals, nestled in the heart of Street in Somerset - not far from the famous Clarks Village.
Whether you're seeking to rejuvenate your skin with anti-
wrinkle treatments, achieve glowing results with advanced facials or enhance your natural beauty and save time with semipermanent make-up, the highly qualified professional team are here to guide you every step of the way.
B Brows & Beauty offer expert care in medical, nurse led, aesthetics, semi-permanent
make-up (SPMU) including eyebrows, lips and eyeliner which lasts on average 1-3 years, laser treatments including tattoo removal, mole, skintag and lesion removal along with traditional beauty treatments including lash lifts, tinting, waxing, luxury facials and massage.
Rediscover and build your confidence with bespoke treatments designed for results that will last. With the knowledge that Medical aesthetics is regulated, you can be confident only the best products are used and you're in safe hands.
Get in touch with B Brows & Beauty to book a no obligation consultation to discuss your concerns and create a tailored treatment plan to make you feel and look your best. Or you can book a treatment online via the website www.bbrowsand beauty.co.uk or by calling on 01458 897310. Take this advert to your appointment to receive 10% off your first treatment booked, valid until the end of 2024. (New clients only.)
A & C Kebab House
No 18 on the High Street is A & C Kebab House, where you can choose to sit in and eat in their restaurant, take away, or delivery from 4pm within a 5 mile radius. There is no service charge.
They offer a complete menu range of Kebabs, Steaks, Lamb Chops, Sides, Pizzas, Children’s menu, drinks and desserts.
They can cater for food allergies and intolerances, and have fresh wraps every day. Open Mon-Sun 3pm-11pm. 01458 448160.
Acorn Solicitors
Acorn Solicitors are a friendly, local, family run firm based in Street and Taunton. They are well known for their specialist knowledge and personal style of working.
Their practice aims to provide a service where you and your family matter.
They can sometimes provide free consultations either face to face or by telephone and when they have a greater understanding of your needs,
B Brows & Beauty at 169 High Street.
STREET BUSINESS FOCUS
they can let you know if it’s possible they can assist you.
Acorn has a team of experienced Lawyers who are all committed to offering their clients a personal service in a wide range of legal matters. They have the local knowledge and the flexibility to help you at all times throughout your life.
World’s Biggest Santa Skate to launch Clarks Village Festive Ice Rink
Clarks Village is aiming to set a record for the greatest number of Santas on ice as it launches its festive ice rink.
Guests are invited to be part of the World’s Biggest Santa Skate at the Somerset shopping outlet, with free tickets on offer – to everyone dressed as Santa.
The head elves at Clarks Village are hosting what promises to be a spectacular launch to celebrate the ice rink’s comeback for the 2024 Christmas season and are aiming to get more than 150 skating Santas on ice simultaneously. The free event will be held as the very first session at the ice rink on
Thursday, 14th November, between 5pm-7pm.
Guests will be able to enjoy ice skating across the two-hour session but all will be asked on to the ice between 6pm-6.30pm for the world record attempt, joined by the real Santa Claus himself who is making a special visit from the North Pole.
Taking part in the World’s Biggest Santa Skate is free for anyone who dresses up as Santa, including skate hire, but the event is ticketed. Free tickets can be claimed now on the Clarks Village website: https://clarks village.co.uk/worlds-biggestsanta-skate.
Everyone who attends will be given a special participation rosette with on-the-spot certificates for outstanding fancy dress efforts.
Featuring real ice, the enchanting 550-square-metre undercover ice rink will be open daily, excluding Christmas Day, from Thursday, 14th November, until Sunday 5th January.
Located in the stunning grounds of the historic Alfred Gillett Trust, adjacent to the
outlet, the ice rink is wheelchair friendly and will have a dedicated entrance within Clarks Village’s restaurant terrace.
Standard ice-skating sessions are 45-minutes and are prebookable with skate hire included with special sessions including disco skating, quiet sessions, parent and toddler sessions, exclusive hire for private parties and two-for-one skating on Wednesdays.
For more details or to book an ice-skating session, including free tickets to the World’s Biggest Santa Skate , visit: https:// clarksvillage.co.uk/worldsbiggest-santa-skate.
Paige at KK Advanced Aesthetics
Paige has arrived as the newest addition to the KK Advanced Aesthetics beauty salon on the corner of 2 Goswell Road, in Street with free parking outside. They offer aesthetics, cosmetic procedures and training and with
a passion for making people feel pretty on the inside as well as the outside, there is range of treatments on offer including: Manicures & Pedicures, Gel Nails, Brow Shaping, Tinting, Lamination, Lash Lift and Tint, and Body Waxing and Paige will be advancing her skills with new treatments in the beauty and aesthetics industry. Treat your little princess (under 12yrs) to a hand or foot pampering for only £10.
Paige’s beauty vouchers are a lovely gift idea! Open Mon-Fri 7:15am-4.45pm. Alternate Sat 8am-12noon. Book your appointment via FacebookPaige, this link www. phorest.com/salon/kkadvancedaes theticsacademyofb/book/services?s taffId=QYNSOwUwgiIcfoURSSm RmA or phone the salon 01458 448286.
Visit Paige at KK Advanced Aesthetics Academy of Beauty & Aesthetics on the corner of 2 Goswell Road.
Clarks Village ice rink.
A&C Kebab House at 18 High Street.
Autumn update from Lizzie Price Shading Solutions
INCHING closer to winter and dark, colder nights Lizzie Price Shading Solutions have a focus on Shutters & Blinds and how
they reduce energy costs. They offer a wide range of Blinds suited to both UV protection and thermal insulation.
An example of one type of blind that achieves this is the
Honeycomb style pleated blinds which trap the air in each pocket considerably decreasing the heat loss through your windows. Shutters are proven to reduce
heat loss; they free up space around the window and are stylish and elegant whilst allowing you total control of the light and privacy.
Both are proven to reduce heat loss and keep energy costs down.
Lizzie Price offer Blinds, Shutters, Awnings and so much more ... as all their products are UK manufactured they can Guarantee pre-Christmas installation.
Visit their website www.lizziepriceshading solutions.co.uk for the full range or give them a call on 07879 992000 for a free no obligation home visit and quotation.
Based in North Cadbury they cover Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire.
Lizzie Price.
Homes with these three features are selling faster
New expert insight from Yopa, the full-service estate agents, has revealed which unique property features are seeing home sellers secure a buyer at a faster rate than the wider market, with functionality and cost saving measures trumping high-end housing features. The data reveals that on average, 12% of all properties to have been listed in the last 30 days have found a buyer.
However, there are three unique features that are seeing a higher proportion of properties sell within a month of listing. The most desirable design feature for today’s homebuyers is a breakfast bar, with 13.6% of all homes listed in the last month with a breakfast bar already finding a buyer. Similarly, kitchen islands are proving popular, with 12.6% of all homes listed in the last month complete with this feature having already sold.
12.6% of homes sold in the last 30 days have featured a kitchen island. Shutterstock.com/ Joseph Hendrickson.
EPCs have been making the headlines once again within the rental sector and it appears as though homebuyers are also prioritising a property’s energy efficiency.
12.6% of all homes listed in the last month which boast an EPC rating of C or above have already found a buyer - with this level of demand again sitting above the wider market benchmark. With demand at 11.1% and 10.4% respectively, freestanding baths and doer uppers are also seeing fairly robust levels of buyer demand in the current market. Wooden beams (9.7%), dressing rooms (9.5%) and high ceilings (9.2%). At the other end of the table, a pool is the least in demand feature at 5.6%, with large gardens also surprisingly out of fashion with just 7.1% of total stock having already been sold.
Simply Bathroom and Bedrooms of Sherborne
With access to hundreds of brands, Simply Bathrooms of Sherborne is a true ‘one-stopshop’ for bathroom design, supply and fit.
A family-run business established 19 years ago, the
ethos has always been to deliver a tailored service, offering clients the widest selection of products paired with exceptional advice and guidance - with all projects being fully managed, the end result is always a truly fantastic bathroom. Over the years they have worked on every type and shape of bathroom, at all levels of budget from modest to limitless and they can tailor each bathroom or wet room to suit individual needs.
At present, their showroom is going through a huge makeover, with even more stunning displays to view, and when complete, the new show room area will be around 100mtr2!
They supply quality bathroom products such as Laufen, Bette, Hansgrohe, Axor , and not forgetting the Italian designed and manufactured ceramics
company, Catalano. Their specialist team of workers are also able to remove or install walls if you would like to make your bathroom bigger by extending into another room -
enabling them to create a truly fantastic space for showering or bathing. Why not give them a call to see what they can do for you when it comes to creating your dream bathroom or shower room.
VINTAGE Motorcycling
with Rod Hann
NOVEMBER is a funny month. We are heading towards winter but still we can have some magnificent days for motorcycling. Bright and dry and not too cold is ideal for getting out on the bikes. We should take advantage of those suitable days as they become less frequent during the coming months. Enjoy it whilst we can.
I start this month with something very different for me and for many others. Fifteen months ago I had a chance meeting with the Reverend Angus Mayhew who is the vicar of Gillingham. He took an immediate interest in our old bikes and he is a motorcyclist himself. During that conversation he said that he intended to have a church service for motorcyclists and he would bless the riders and bikes. We exchanged contact details.
Rev. Mayhew did contact me during the summer to confirm that the service and blessing would take place at Gillingham on the 1st September. Not quite knowing what to expect we duly attended on the appointed day, as did around 40 or 50 other bike riders. The good people of the parish provided us with tea/coffee and cake. After his regular service Rev. Mayhew joined us for refreshments. There was at least four other clergy present, two of whom were also motorcyclists.
Short prayers were said before all bikes and riders were duly blessed. Next we all rode off up to Compton Abbas Airfield where we could see the Spitfire and other ancient planes flying and landing. Rev. Mayhew then made
MOTORING
a special presentation to two of the military personnel present for their charity work. After spectating for a while we made our way home. Everyone I spoke to were very moved by the proceedings of the day and what a very social day it was. Rev. Mayhew was intimating that it would be repeated again next year. I certainly hope so and for sure I will be there. My picture this month shows some of the assembled crowd in the road outside St.Mary's church, in the centre is the good Rev. Mayhew and on the left can be seen the Mayor of Gillingham, also a bike rider.
Now turning to club events during November. The Somerset Section have their club night at Cossington on the 7th and this will be a Bring and Buy evening. The Dorset Section have the Memorial Run on the 9th followed on the 13th with their club night at Pulham, and this time it will be a quiz. The Wessex Veteran
and Vintage Section have a club meeting at Silton on the 11th and this will be a talk on Veterama Europe's Largest Autojumble. For more details on these event ring 01935-872528.
As I reported previously the Somerset Section's Autojumble moved to Cheddar and was held on the 14th September. Well the consensus was that the new venue worked out very well. The new venue provides plenty of parking and all trade stands were either indoors or outside on hard standing. There may have been slightly less traders and less attendees but everyone seemed pleased with the new format. With any such event there will always be a few teething troubles but they seemed minor and few, and competently dealt with by the organising team. Next spring's happening has been booked for the 29th March so make a diary entry to ensure your attendance.
As and when the need arises there are many ways to sell your pride and joy. The best way for both parties is a private sell probably preceded by word-ofmouth contact. Another way is by placing an advert in either local press or a specialised publication. A further way is by means of a specialised auction or another way is via the internet with Ebay or other similar sites.
For some time now the favoured method was the internet route and this still works fine
the only drawback I see is that your advert can get lost in a sea of similar adverts for similar machines. To stand out from the rest your advert should be for something rather special or exclusive, which should then get noticed.
Becoming ever more popular it seems is to go via the auction route. You make the entry and leave it to the experts to promote your machine to its best, and with the world wide web you get world wide circulation giving you the best coverage possible. At least with this method you avoid the necessity of people visiting your home to view the bike. Do not however dismiss the local advert route as it does work and with a reduced initial outlay.
At the end of the day I still prefer the word-of-mouth system when you can talk to your potential buyer and explain all the good points of your machine, but also be truthful and tell them of any faults there may be. Be Fair. Now of course is not a good time for selling anything with prices much reduced, but be prepared for when things do start moving again.
So what do I do you may ask? Well I have used all of the above methods with some greater or lesser success. I usually end up selling everything too cheaply. I have a gift for selling too cheaply and buying too dearly, but I enjoy the proceedings just the same. All I can do is wish you luck.
The assembled crowd in the road outside St.Mary's church Gillingham.
Wayford, Somerset: A Sparkling Wine Haven IN THIS COLUMN I am generally not in the habit of promoting individual businesses but, since being set up in 2007, I have had a good relationship with Wayford Wines, based in the Axe Valley, near Crewkerne.
Nestled in the rolling hills of South-West England, the small village of Wayford, Somerset, might not immediately spring to mind as a premier wine destination. However, this charming rural spot has quietly gained recognition for producing some of England’s finest sparkling wines. Benefiting from the region's unique microclimate, Wayford’s burgeoning wine industry is a testament to the remarkable transformation of English viticulture over the last few decades.
Somerset, historically known for its cider-making tradition, has a long-standing affinity with orchard fruits, owing to its mild climate and fertile soils. However, in recent years, innovative producers have discovered that these same natural attributes make it an ideal environment for grape cultivation, particularly for sparkling wine varieties.
Wayford’s vineyards sit on limestone-rich soils, similar to those found in the famous Champagne region of France. This, combined with relatively cool temperatures, enables the grapes to develop the high acidity required to make excellent sparkling wines. Additionally, Wayford benefits from the protection of nearby hills, creating a sheltered microclimate that prolongs the growing season and ensures the fruit ripens slowly, thus enhancing the complexity and flavours of the wine. We are now producing award-winning wines that rival some of the finest from Champagne.
Wayford has made its mark by focusing on the production of traditional-method sparkling wines, where secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, much like the prestigious houses of France. This meticulous process, combined with the village's natural advantages, has put Wayford’s wines on the map for their finesse, crispness, and elegance.
The community is home to a handful of passionate wine producers, many of whom have
With L.P-V
made a name for themselves within the broader English wine scene. Established by a family with deep roots in the area, focusing on sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking methods, these sparkling wines have received critical acclaim, praised for their bright acidity, fine mousse, and complex flavours.
So, what sets these wines apart? Thanks to the limestonerich soils, the wines often exhibit a unique minerality that adds a refreshing, flinty quality, reminiscent of fine Champagne.
Ageing the wines on the lees (the dead yeast cells left over from fermentation) for extended periods adds a rich, biscuity depth and complexity, which contrasts beautifully with the wine’s zesty freshness.
One of the key things about Wayford, and their awardwinning sparkling wines, made solely from their 4 acres of the Pinot Noir grape variety, has been their attention to detail in maintaining high quality at every stage of the operation, resulting in wines of a consistently highcalibre. Each shareholder has an allotted plot to maintain throughout the year, in addition to specialised jobs, including manual work, and harvesting with the help of volunteers. The wine is processed at Pebblebed vineyard at Topsham, Devon.
Since the first vintage in 2014, Wayford has built up a good reputation and a loyal following, but there had been some concerns about the quality of a recent vintage.
This summer, I was surprised to be contacted by Barbara Woodward, one of the shareholders, asking me to visit and provide my opinion. The wine I had been asked to taste had been taken from the store where it had been left on the lees and transported to Pebblebed to be disgorged.
The heat, light and vibration had its effect, resulting in several hundred bottles being disposed of, as they had realised it was not fit to drink. It was also concluded that some bottles used at events had been in the light and sun, so many of these were also withdrawn; Now ‘dummy’ bottles have been made for display at events to prevent a recurrence of this costly saga.
We settled down to a ‘blind’ tasting and it was clear that some bottles were not in good shape, having lost their effervescence and the ‘fresh’ taste of a wellmade sparkling wine; a number of bottles of that particular vintage were going to have to be withdrawn and disposed of; a big problem when profit margins are so small to begin with.
In recent years, a combination of the state of the economy, along
with the impact of climate change has affected many businesses across all sectors.
It is indeed a precarious business, dependent upon so many factors, and is a constant labour of love. It is with this in mind, that I decided to help them boost their sales in the run up to the festive season this year to offset the impact.
The wine is on sale at these local outlets (prices range from £28-£32 per bottle), and they have agreed to offer VISITOR readers a 10% discount on the current 2018 vintage if you quote the following code – WW2018.
Trading Post, Lopen Head Hinton St George shop
Norton-sub-Hamdon shop
Cedric’s, Misterton North Perrott Farm shop
Perry’s Cider, Dowlish Wake
Wayford, Somerset, may be a small village, but its sparkling wines are making a big impression. With its perfect combination of climate, soil, and craftsmanship, this hidden gem of English viticulture is producing exceptional wines that are well worth discovering. As more wine lovers seek out the refined and refreshing sparkling wines of Wayford, it’s clear that this rural corner of Somerset is destined for sparkling greatness.
Spring Bulbs
With Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design
NOW IS the perfect time to plant Narcissus, iris and crocus bulbs in garden borders or containers but hold off planting tulips until November when the weather is colder and this will reduce the risk of tulip fire affecting the blooms.
But perhaps you are not physically able to plant bulbs into your garden borders, or you don’t have the space, then I am going to tell you how you can have a lovely display of spring bulbs that will last for weeks using just one pot.
A bulb lasagna is simply planting one bulb on top of another in layers. Starting with the biggest bulb, that flowers last at the bottom of the container moving upwards to the smallest
and earliest flowering bulb at the top creating a real feast for the eyes.
Choose a nice deep container that has a large drainage hole, bulbs don’t like sitting in waterlogged soil so use a crock or pebble to partially cover the drainage hole to ensure it does not become clogged with earth.
To help with drainage add a layer of horticultural grit to the base of the container about 2 inches deep and add a layer of potting compost to about the same depth, and you are ready to position your first layer of bulbs starting about 12 inches down from the top of the container to allow for the layers above.
Place your bulbs pointy end up, about an inch apart making sure that they do not touch each other and add a layer of compost a couple of inches in depth, and you are ready to add your next layer of bulbs. For a container using two layers of bulbs you could use a combination of tulips, Narcissus or hyacinths and crocus, or if you fancy a three layer combination you could use tulips or allium for
your first layer followed by Narcissus or muscari for the middle layer and finished off with crocus or iris for the top layer, just remember to check on the flowering times for each bulb to ensure a continuous display of blooms. Water well when planted and regularly for the first few weeks so the bulbs establish roots, and for the final touch and a splash of instant colour add some autumn bedding plants.
Finally, use pot feet to raise your container off the ground to ensure it is not sitting in a puddle of water on your patio and then sit back and wait for your gorgeous spring display.
Until next time happy gardening.
Glorious Gardens 2024 Raises £32,012 for St Margaret's Hospice Care
This year’s Glorious Gardens 2024 campaign was a resounding success, with 61 gardens opening
across 22 locations and raising £32,012 in support of St Margaret’s Hospice Care.
Looking ahead to 2025, St Margaret’s is calling on the community to get involved again for next summer’s Glorious Gardens event, as they celebrate 45 years of providing free end-oflife care to the people of Somerset. Their aim is to feature over 100 gardens, making it their biggest event yet, and they need your help to reach that goal.
Whether your garden is large or small, your participation would be a fantastic addition.
For more information on how to take part in Glorious Gardens 2025 and help celebrate this special anniversary and to sign up visit www.st-margaretshospice.org.uk/glorious -gardens-host or contact Kerry Baillie Community Partnerships Manager on 01935 709496 or email Kerry.Baillie@stmargarets-hospice.org.uk.
Full ground preparation and laying service available
John Deere celebrates 75 years of iconic two-cylinder diesel engine
THIS year the Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show at Newark Showground on 9-10 November will celebrate 75 years of the John Deere two-cylinder diesel engine, marking a milestone in agricultural history.
Introduced in 1949 with the Model R, John Deere’s first diesel tractor, the engine stood out from the predominantly petrolpowered models of its time.
Known for its simple yet robust design, exceptional pulling power, durability, and fuel efficiency.
• Over thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys
• Established business paying BEST prices for old toys in any condition
John Deere Model R.
The Pub Pages
BEER & SKITTLES
ANYONE WHO has had the dubious privilege of being a reader of this column over the years will have no doubt of my belief in the mantra that organised games get people into pubs. A bit of friendly competition never did anyone any harm, and I recall when many pubs would've had their own football team that played in the local league, as well as skittles, darts, maybe cribbage and perhaps pool teams that played in their respective leagues as well. League games are the meat and potatoes of a pub, and more than one Landlord has told me that without the skittles, darts and pool the winter months would be a disaster. We don't need reminding that the number of pubs has declined catastrophically over the last 50 years, and I read that a further one in ten is now 'teetering on the edge'.
As pub and ale enthusiasts we can only do what we can do, and that's to keep supporting our wonderful pubs! It's not just real ale that will keep pubs going on their own though, and a look at the proportion of ale drunk in comparison to keg beers will confirm that. Our skittle team is probably an exception where I would say that half of our players would choose ale as their favourite drink. So please everyone; drink your favourite drink, play those games and help to ensure your pub keeps going! So what constitutes a league?
Well I guess it only takes a regular couple of teams playing – even at the same venue - and a league is born. A prime example of this is the ABM Club in Wallingford, Oxfordshire where more than a dozen teams now play regularly. Thanks to info supplied by club member Dave Quinn we gave them a cursory mention last month, as their 'open' festival of skittles competition celebrated 60 years here, in which both a Yeovil team and Blandford team took part. (Catch up with this in the Visitor back numbers, online). Sharps even brewed a special beer to mark the event which didn't hang around too long, so I am told! Dave furnished me with much more information some of which I can share now, with more in future months of B&S, I'm sure. Interestingly (here comes some social history) the acronym 'ABM' comes from the Associated British Maltsters.
A goodly number of experienced maltsters would travel from Bath and stay in the area for the week and needed something to do in the evenings,
and hence the club came about. (I guess these days a daily trip would be more likely; thus proving that roads create traffic!)
The actual maltings building is now long gone, but the club continues with some of the membership going back a long way. This includes (pictured) 88 year old winner of the singles Bryan Doe and 92 year old Mervyn Houseman from the singles tournament in June, celebrating here with some of the 'Bowling Stones'!
At this location they play with Gloucester style pins and balls to Gloucester rules, which suggests to me that those Bath boys also did the same. You too can see this for yourself by tuning in at the right time to 'Wallingford Live Skittles' courtesy of Simon Newton on Facebook or YouTube as they broadcast live cup matches complete with multiple cameras and commentary – is this the only club that does it?
Prove me wrong! (By the way we can still find no further alleys in Oxfordshire!)
Returning the favour, the Bowling Stones (as I write, taking the top spot of Division One of the Yeovil Sports League) have invited the chaps from Wallingford to pay a visit to Yeovil to witness a 'Clash of Titans', for on Friday 8th November, the 'Stones' are scheduled to be playing a league game versus 'Hammers' at the 'Duke of York' (Conservative Club). Anyone who knows about the 'Hammers' will know their record – they have had a staggering number of wins over
the years and perpetually dominate Division One. Then, on the Saturday, the ABM club will be taking on the 'Stones' (good luck with that one!) I know it's going to be a lot of fun and a lot of ale will be drunk, so the 'Duke' had better get plenty more supplies in pdq!
Also travelling with the ABM Skittles Club, recently elected chairman Simon Newton shared his views on what to expect for the trip to Yeovil. He envisions a scene similar to group in the van in the film caper The Italian Job , who pretend to be away footie supporters, decking the vehicle out in scarves and bunting, singing chants about the ABM, and spinning rattles as they go. Simon was quoted as saying “With a Battle of Britain spirit, we plucky few will be travelling into the lion's den, daring to bring our strange upcountry version of skittles into the bosom of the sport. They may first mock us, but our home alley's impressive length and girth should see us in good stead on the diminutive West Country boards. We will win over the locals not only with our chipper spirit and the generosity in our hearts but with our prowess with ball and pin.
No matter how we perform against our opponents, we will travel back at the end of our trip weary but proud, spent yet fulfilled, having given our all for our teams, our club, and - most of all - for the love of skittles”.
Well that's all brave words bordering on fighting talk there Simon, but I'm sure the spirit of
P. A. BAXTER
Senior ABM members plus 'Rolling Bones' Photo: Dave Quinn.
Celebratory Beer!
the game will be uppermost in your souls - as no doubt it will be in our souls!
Anyone who has stepped on a skittle alley at more than one venue may well have wondered about the inevitable differences. Alley width and length, diamond size, pins and ball size, etc., but there are so many influences that I won't try and list them all. No matter; to me this is part of the joy of the game as the alley, pins and balls are the same for both teams, the only variable is the players! So along with this, we are aware of the many leagues across our green and pleasant land. But how many, you may ask? Well until recently, I would have had no clue to that question. Now, however, I can give you an idea.
Thanks again to Dave Quinn, a very active member of my 'Pub Games' Facebook group, an interactive map with all the known leagues has been produced, and one can zoom in to an area and find links to any particular league. Not being the brightest pixie in the forest when it comes to information technology, I'm delighted what Dave has done and massive thanks to him for doing what he's done. Is your league on this map? Best you check it out – access it via the 'Pub Games' group!
So including not only our West Country alley skittles that the majority of us are so familiar with, but including also the Midlands and North Midlands table variations, we're pushing toward 200 skittle leagues – yes, you read that right!
How many variants do you know and have played? Answer me that! Drop me a line – do! Cheers!
That the consistently wet weather left fairground Lorries stuck in the mud for hours at Fairfield in Castle Cary.
That with so many Health & Safety issues these days, one wonders how much longer Carnivals in our towns can survive.
That thanks to the imaginative and creative residents of Marston Magna, Hallowe’en has been brought to travellers passing through the village … what will Christmas bring, we wonder?
That the former Constitutional Club in Castle Cary was there one minute - and gone the next. That contributions to this column are always welcome, but anonymous entries will not be published.
ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ
Luke Chant demonsrates the 'Dorset flop' in Oxfordshire! Image: Dave Quinn.
Random photo; who/where/when?
Budgeting blues
WITH THE Labour Government scheduled to announce its first post-election budget at the end of October, comparison with the Conservative’s autumn budget of 1994 reveals a similar sense of foreboding. The November 1994 Visitor opined that ‘nothing could have been more calculated to put a dampener on Christmas trade than moving the budget to midNovember. For all the quiet satisfaction the Chancellor exudes at the nation’s “sustainable growth”, very few of us on a personal level are “feeling good” yet. We expect nothing from this year’s budget to change that.’ It reported that ‘a survey conducted recently by the Forum of Private Business indicates that small businesses in the South West place one particular issue at the top of their Christmas present list to the Chancellor –Business Rates’, adding that ‘holding down business rate poundages and reviewing the rating system are given top priority by the majority of the Forum’s members in the South West’ and by the retailing sector nationally. But the Visitor rightly predicted that ‘their plea will, of course, fall on deaf ears’.
New hall fills a need
September 18th 1994 saw the official opening of Caryford Community Hall opposite Ansford School. ‘It is already beginning to fulfil the need outlined by the original steering committee in 1985’ and ‘over the past nine years, with support from the county, district and local councils and with enormous local fund-raising efforts, the Hall has taken shape’, the Visitor revealed. ‘With large parking facilities and far enough away from residential areas to cause minimal inconvenience, the Hall offers varied accommodation’, it reported. ‘The spacious foyer leads into a large hall with sprung floor, adjustable lighting and blackout for films, exhibitions, lectures and theatre; a smaller carpeted committee room is available to hire independently or together with the main hall; and there is a large kitchen, ample toilet facilities and complete accessibility for disabled
users.’ As an indication of the Hall’s success it has been extended in 2024 to provide even more accommodation for users.
Calling – in, not out
Does Mercury Minicall ring bells with you? Thirty years ago when mobile phones were in their infancy and smartphones no more than a pipedream, the Mercury Minicall was marketed as the answer for ‘customers who have been looking for an affordable easy-to-use mobile communications system’. An article in the November 1994 Visitor explained that ‘when purchased the unit is already supplied with its own unique Mercury Minicall telephone number. Simply give the number to friends, relatives and anyone else who needs to contact you’. Apparently ‘there are no catches, no airtime contracts, no credit checks, no monthly bills – all you ever pay is the purchase price’ and it is ideal for ‘simply anyone who wants to be accessible affordably, instantly and with no ongoing costs’. However, outgoing calls from the device to national network numbers were not possible, so it’s not surprising that it wasn’t around for long.
Festive fare
A sure sign that Christmas was fast approaching was the 50 advertisements for pubs and restaurants carried in the November 1994 Visitor. 37 of them were promoting the availability of their Christmas menus and 16 actually included details of exactly what was on offer (although only eight of these offered a vegetarian alternative to turkey – almost unthinkable in 2024!). Prices, where stated, ranged from £6.50 at
the Chetnole Inn to £16.25 at The Pheasants Restaurant in Sherborne, with most falling between £9.50 and £11.00 per head.
Mere memories
One of the 37 venues advertising for Christmas bookings was the Old Ship Hotel in Mere. The November 1994 Visitor included a feature on Mere, stating that ‘among the town’s many fine buildings is the Old Ship Hotel’ and claiming that it was ‘built as a private house in Stuart times by Sir John Coventry’ who died in 1682. This was one of the rare occasions when the Visitor gets
Nikolaus Pevsner ascribes the building with its seven bays, coach entrance and magnificent wrought-iron projecting sign to around 1700 and describes it as ‘undoubtedly the most spectacular domestic building of the town’. And local historians tell us that it was built on the site of Sir John Coventry’s home, so he doesn’t deserve the credit for the Old Ship. Sadly it closed a decade or more ago and the interior has been converted into residential accommodation. But the frontage remains remarkably unchanged, just as I remember it when it was a thriving pub. Roger Richards.
Cl ass ified Ads
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Storage
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Prize Crossword No. 456 Set
by Frank Butler
SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO:
The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 18th November.
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:
8. We hear the post’s not female [4]
9. Sailor returns a rodent [3]
10. View the little sister [6]
11. Astronomy grips one in flight [6]
12. Wee Charles contains the disturbance with horse-drawn vehicles [8]
13. Act, about people with gen -admit receipt! [15]
15. Straggly agent takes rough ride [7]
17. Swears at examinations [7]
20. What to do with the report: Shift article, taking new child [4, 3, 8]
23. Art of swan grid repairs [8]
25. Evil as a candle [6]
26. Wears games [6]
27. Gassy song [3]
28. Tidy ox [4]
Clues Down:
1. Graduates twitch with bituminous cement [6]
2. Planned act around omen [8]
3. Honesty has thrown us its rest [15]
4. Southern heart with adhesive label [7]
5. Directly ahead and simple [15]
6. Hum about high priest yields gas [6]
7. 568ml in, in platinum [4]
14. Negative reversing mass [3]
16. In favour of salaried player [3]
18. Attractive, some recent icing methods [8]
19. Cat naps where anchor’s aweigh! [7]
21. Ted shows dread about first week [6]
22. Street of no return [3-3]
24. Wrecked pier became mature [4]
Winner of the October Crossword is Chris Hotham of Yeovil who chose to spend the £15 voucher at The Orchard Inn, Galhampton.
