The Visitor Magazine Issue 346 September 2012

In Passing ...

M

IChAEL PORTILLO’s BBC2 series of ‘Great British Railway Journeys’ proved to be so popular that a second series was made – and filming has recently been completed for a third to be broadcast next year. The first two are now available on DVD, and four issues of the 19th century Bradshaw’s handbook for Railway Tourists that Portillo used to plan his journeys have been reprinted as one book, as have various issues of Bradshaw’s monthly rail timetables.

All are selling well, implying that many people have a nostalgic interest in railway travel.

But it’s not just nostalgia. Nowadays so many people are travelling by rail that the network is beset with capacity problems.

Even Visitorland’s branch line from Bristol to Weymouth has seen passenger journeys double over the last six years to around 1.7 million a year and overcrowding has become a problem on several trains. The Government has announced ambitious plans to build a completely new high speed main line from London to the Midlands, to electrify some existing routes including the London to Bristol and South Wales main line to accommodate higher speeds and more trains, to enhance the infrastructure by adding more tracks at bottlenecks like the route from Filton into Bristol, and to create an electrified link from Southampton to the Midlands and Yorkshire to speed up freight traffic. If the plans come to fruition they will make much of the country’s rail network fit to meet 21st century demands – but make little difference in Visitorland.

In this area the name of the successful bidder for the rail franchise currently operated

by First Great Western will be announced next March, with the new franchise running for 15 years from 21st July 2013. The formal Invitation to Tender specifies a minimum train service requirement based largely on the current timetable. Of the 19 weekday trains from Paddington to the South-West via Castle Cary, nine stop there, as do eight heading for London and the eight trains in each direction on the Bristol to Weymouth line.

Portillo fans tempted to consult their Bradshaws to see how Castle Cary station fared in bygone days will discover that in

October 1947, shortly before railway nationalisation, it was served by just three trains on weekdays from Paddington to Weymouth and two in the opposite direction.

None of the trains between London and the South-West stopped. A further eight trains ran from Westbury to Weymouth and seven in the reverse direction. And a train shuttled five times a day to and from Taunton to serve such places as Somerton and Langport. 25 years earlier, in July 1922, there was just one London train in each direction (taking almost three hours), seven to and from Weymouth and six to and from Taunton.

So services have improved, but on Visitorland’s other railway, from Waterloo to Exeter, SouthWest Trains provide an hourly stopping service at Gillingham, Templecombe, Sherborne, Yeovil and Crewkerne. Towns on the Great Western lines including Somerton and Langport deserve the same.

NN.

Ltd.

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG

Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Fax: (01963) 350552 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk or www.thevisitor.biz Proprietor, Accounts & Subscriptions Helen Dunion Production Manager Jeff Farrow Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock Printed by The Blackmore Press © The Visitor Ltd. 2012

(Items marked ©gt are the copyright of geoff thompson)

Advertising Deadlines

CONTENTS

october edition published Thursday 27th September Deadline Monday 17th September

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to curd

Wells Frome • Shepton Mallet Glastonbury Bruton Street Castle Mere Cary Somerton Wincanton Gillingham langport ilchester Shaftesbury Martock Marnhull Sherborne Stalbridge • ilminster Stur. Newton Yeovil Crewkerne

Note to Advertisers Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request. We cannot guarantee any specific page or position, but will always do our best to comply with clients’ wishes.

ArtWorK Artwork & design by our production department and photographs taken by our photographers are the copyright of Badger Publications.

The Visitor is compiled in Quark Xpress (Apple Macintosh).

Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should ideally send uncompressed TIFs, JPEGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than size required, along with a hard copy print-out.

For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.

The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 51 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 30 ARTS - 4 AUTUMN WEDDINGS - 13 BUSINESS - 37 CROSSWORD - 54 CYCLE BABBLE - 32 GARDENING - 47 HAM HILL COUNTRY - 28 HOBBIES & PASTIMES - 33 HOUSE & HOME - 40 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 30 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 11 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING “At Your Service” - 38 MUSIC for the MONTH - 30 NOTICE BOARD - 6 PAPERCHASE - 50 PHONE-A-FIRM - 52 PUBS - 24 TASTE of the WEST COUNTRY - 9 THEY SAY - 26 WE HEAR - 7 WESTLAND ZOO - 51 WINE & DINE - 8 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

ThE VISITOR September 2012 3

ARTS Annual Exhibition

Mosterton Art Group are holding their Annual Exhibition from Saturday 25th August until Saturday 1st September in the Skyrm Room of Beaminster Public hall (DT8 3EF) from 10am until 5pm daily.

This is the group’s 24th exhibition and it will feature members original artwork and cards for sale. Entry is free.

Last Night of the Proms

The Rotary Club of Yeovil presents a Diamond Jubilee Last Night of the Proms Concert at The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil on Friday 7th September at 7.30pm.

Performed by The British Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Philip Sunderland, with soloists Annette Yeo and Andrew Forbes Lane, it promises to be an unforgettable evening of well-loved music, ending of course with Land of Hope & Glory. Dress up, bring flags and be moved by this concert which is sponsored

by Old Mill Accountants in aid of

A local Diary Yeovil District hospital Special Care Baby Unit and Yeovil Young Achievers Trust, both very worthwhile causes. Tickets cost £24.50 and are available from the Rotary Club on 01460 240984; The Octagon ticket office 01935 422884 or Old Mill 01935 426181.

VaCO Ensemble

Members of the UK ’s renowned Vacation Chamber Orchestra, the ‘VaCO Ensemble’, are touring Somerset and will be performing at the following venues: Monday 27th August – Church of St. John the Baptist, Frome; Tuesday 28th – Memorial hall, Charlton Musgrove; Wednesday 29th – Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne; Friday 31st – Parish Church , Glastonbury VaCO Ensemble is a group of talented music students, singers and instrumentalists, drawn from conservatoires and universities across the United Kingdom, coached by the acclaimed cellist and chamber musician, Victoria Simonsen, and their Musical

Director, Xenophon Kelsey, MBE. The entertaining programme for their concerts is titled Just So Much Nonsense and will include William Walton’s hilarious Façade - The Complete Entertainment, and a new arrangement of Edward German’s settings of Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories – musical fun ideal for all the family!

Performances start at 7:30pm.

Tickets Prices: Adult £10, Children £5 – available on the door or by contacting 07974 698 264.

Carers host Arts & Crafts Exhibition

The Malthouse Gallery at East Lambrook Manor Gardens, TA13 5hh, is the venue for Making Strides, an Arts & Crafts Exhibition, supported by Rethink Mental Illness and East Lambrook Manor Gardens.

This unusual and varied

exhibition of paintings, sculptures and craft work, will reflect the work and talents of a range of artists – all of whom are family members or friends of those belonging to the Ilminster / Chard and Langport carers’ group, as well as carers themselves.

The group has been in existence for the past 12 years and meets regularly to provide a ‘safe space’ where those caring for a loved one affected by mental illness can both give and gain support and encouragement.

The Making Strides Exhibition is supported by the charity Rethink Mental Illness and by East Lambrook Manor Gardens and runs from 15th to 29th of September, Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10am to 5pm. Free entry.

For further information about the group or exhibition please phone: 01823 254288.

Fluted Bottle by Master Potter Nick Rees, at John Leach’s Muchelney Pottery. Nick is celebrating 40 years as a Potter with a Solo Exhibition at the Pottery. The exhibition runs from Saturday 8th September until Wednesday 10th October.

You can read about Nick’s career on the Visitor website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk or via: www.thevisitor.biz 4 ThE VISITOR September 2012

Letters to the Editor Health and Safety at Work

Sir, health and Safety at Work.

What does it mean and what and who does it cover?

Are drivers of large vehicles i.e. buses, coaches, lorries, considered in the health and safety at work directive, if so why are we allowed to continue to put our lives and our passengers lives in danger when in Somerset and Dorset (and many other counties come to that) the hedges and trees on our roads and country lanes are so overgrown that it is making driving an absolute nightmare.

For instance, many of the roads were wide enough for two large vehicles to pass each other with care, but now the roads are restricted to just getting through with a large vehicle and a car (not to mention that cars are getting bigger every day).

The councils cut some verges and banks to car height but forget us. WE NEED ROOM TO MOVE AS WELL. Prime examples are trying to get into Bruton from any direction, Charlton horethorne hill, Evercreech, Chaple Cross, Over and Nether Compton, and Thornford to name just a few.

Years ago when there were a lot of small farms in the country, each farmer had their own equipment and kept their own hedges and ditches to a high standard, but now many of the farms have been sold as private dwellings, no one seems to be held responsible for the upkeep any more. It should be written into an agreement when people purchase these farms they are aware that it is their responsibility to keep the hedges in a safe and proper way.

When contacting one council I was told it helped to keep the edge of the road from damage by keeping large vehicles away from the edge of the roads.

WhAT A LAUGh. Your children’s lives are in our hands when they are being taken to school.

If we are not to see hedges being laid anymore, when you are driving your car on these roads and lanes please be aware that although the speed limit may be 60mph for a car, we may be coming around the next corner, yes, in the middle of the road, and different finger gestures don’t help the situation.

If anyone from Somerset County Council reads this, could we have some 30mph signs, road narrow signs including rumble strips on the approach to holbrook, especially from the Castle Cary direction.

REMEMBER hEALTh AND SAFETY AT WORK. Name & Address supplied

Charity Begins at Home

Sir, From 1996 to 2001 I was the owner of Bumblecraft, the wool and haberdashery shop, situated within the electrical shop of the late Mr. Nigel hinks, in Thimble Lane, Milborne Port.

I had never owned or run a business in my life, but, encouraged by Mr. hinks, I decided to have a go. It was a complete eye-opener for me. I met such lovely and talented people, who turned their hands to all sorts of crafts, not just sewing and knitting. One gentleman customer was a keen fly fisherman and purchased various silks with which to tie dried flies for his hobby.

Another thing I learned was craftspeople help each other willingly and without reserve.

Many a time a customer would be discussing a problem with me about their craft and another customer would join in the conversation with the remark ‘Oh, that happened to me and I resolved the problem this way ...’

Craftspeople are a communicative lot and many a lively discussion was had in Bumblecraft, with ideas exchanged and points debated.

Also, the customers were not only the older generation. I had several young people who made things and brought them to show me, both while in the making and the finished articles.

I have a photograph album with many pictures of the beautiful and functional items made locally. This holds many memories of my time at the shop and my lovely customers.

I have decided to hold a sale in celebration of the work done by local people, who work mostly alone and behind closed doors.

Therefore, on Saturday 29th September from 10am - 4pm in Church house, Bathwell Lane, will be held the following event: Bumblecraft presents: Handmade Homemade - A Sale

of Items Made Locally.

Entrance will be free. This is not an event for any charity.

Charity begins at home and this is for Us. I do hope my former customers will come along and many others who are interested in crafts, either in general, or in particular, thus making the event a friendly and enjoyable time.

Mrs R. C. Lowe Formerly of Bumblecraft Milborne Port

both. You will be pleased to know that we are holding two Free Taster Sessions when you can take the opportunity to ‘have a go at North West Morris dancing’ or join in with our lively band. These will take place on Mondays 17th and 24th September from 7.30-9.30pm at our practice venue Milford hall, Milford Road, Yeovil BA21 4QD. For more information please contact either Rosemary on 01935 891415 or Jenny on 01963 210562 or visit our website www.treacleeaterclog.org.uk or just turn up and join in.

Rosemary Lovegrove Treacle Eater Clog

Thank You

Sir, Treacle Eater Clog Morris Dancers would like to thank everyone who turned out to watch us when we were touring around Visitorland this summer.

We had a great time performing for you and meeting lots of interesting people in some of the beautiful and lesser known parts of Somerset and Dorset.

Many of you expressed an interest in having a go with a view to joining the team either as a dancer or a musician or

Ward & Sibley The Jewellers of Yeovil

OUr repair SectiOn Of the bUSineSS iS pleaSed tO Offer:

 Complete refurbishment of jewellery soldering charms onto bracelets, sizing rings, repairing chains, jewellery cleaning

 Watch and clock repairs including battery replacements

 Jewellery handmade to your own design  Seal and hand engraving  Valuations for insurance and probate  Pearl and bead re-threading for a prompt and reliable service The CaskeT, 103 Middle sTreeT, Yeovil Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop ThE VISITOR September 2012 5

September Notice Board BUCKHORN WESTON

Ballroom & Latin dancing.

Beginners class starting Thursday 13th September 7.30pm Buckhorn Weston hall.

Improvers 8.30pm, advanced 6.30pm. Informal, friendly atmosphere 01258 821381.

BUCKHORN WESTON

Ballroom & Latin social dance, Saturday 22nd September 7.45pm-10.30pm £5 Buckhorn Weston hall. All welcome. Sandra 01258 821381.

CASTLE CARY

open day at Castle Cary Fire station, on Saturday 8th September. Talks, Simulator, Barbecue, Refreshments, Professional Photographer. All welcome.

MARTOCK

Last Night of the Proms, with Sherborne Town Band, Friday 7th September, 7.30pm. Parish Church, TA12 6JL. Tickets £7 01935 822706.

MERE

Mere Literary Festival, Write in the Week, flash fiction competition, opens 27th September, closes 5th October.

Details: www.merelitfest.co.uk

SOMERTON

Buttercross vintage Market, Somerton Parish Rooms, Saturday 8th September 2012, from 10am-4pm. Contact: Mary hossack, 07884 310950.

WEST CAMEL

St. Michael’s scottish Country dance Club every Thursday from 5th September, 7.45pm10pm at Davis hall, West Camel.

Contact: 01935 824377.

Advertise your OCTOBER EVENT HERE!

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 - send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid, maximum 20 words.

(Extra words 40p each). deadline for october issue, Monday 17th september.

6 ThE VISITOR September 2012

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Dispatches Free Arts & Crafts Days with SSDC

South Somerset District Council invites children to get arty and creative on a double decker bus.

Craft and play sessions with an ‘Under the Sea’ theme are being held on the Yarlington Community Bus at Wincanton Recreation Ground, Station Road, Wincanton on Tuesday 28th August and at Ilchester Town hall (car park), high Street, Ilchester on Wednesday 29th August.

The events are free and are aimed at children aged 10 years and below. There are two sessions on each day: 10.00am to 12.00 noon and 12.45pm to 3.00pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The West’s Best Liar

how good are you at telling porky pies? Would you like to enter a competition for the most convincing liar in Somerset? Just tell your biggest whopper for a maximum of 3 minutes in front of an audience and you will be judged accordingly.

A hilarious evening is being organised by Langport and Somerton Rotary Club to raise money for local charity projects. It will be held on Saturday 24th November, 7.30pm at The Edgar hall, Somerton. There will be food, bar, a raffle and the evening will finish with a dance to live music.

AND ... Facebook.com/thevisitormagazine

our websIte can be reached via: www.thevisitor.biz or the usual www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk To enter for auditions to be held in October, ring Luke Brooker on 07561 402758 or Facebook – Facebook.com/The Wests Best Liar or e-mail: thewestsbestliar @hotmail.co.uk but hurry only a limited number will be selected.

Crafty activities at Bruton Library

A workshop to teach youngsters some spectacular methods of recycling old books will take place on Wednesday 29th August, from 3pm - 4.30pm at Bruton Library.

So, what can be done with an old book that has a broken spine and ragged pages? Aimed at 5 to 10 year olds, children will make a notebook cover as an introduction, and then choose between crafting door hangers, woven table mats or paper beads to fashion into jewellery.

Tickets for the workshop are £1 per child and available at the library now. Early booking is essential as numbers are limited.

Tickets can be booked at the library in person, or telephone 0845 3459177. Tickets should be

paid for before the event.

Adult to accompany children under 8 years old.

Britannia Carnival Club

This year, the cart is dedicated to the late Bob Kingston of Wincanton, who for many years had been an active member of the club, until in recent years ill health prevented him. he then took up a new supporting role – the chief cheerleader – as he followed them around the various carnival circuits.

Bob and his family will also be remembered for their amazing costume designs when entering the carnival circuit processions as Masquerades, winning many a local and county cup with their dazzling creations. Over the years, all the Kingston family have been involved in some way or another with the Britannia Carnival Club and this year is no exception.

David (Bob’s grandson) is responsible for the cart design and the choreography and has spent many hours teaching a dance routine to an enthusiastic team

sit back and relax ... single Motor Chairs from just £450 and dual Motor Chairs from £550 Call in and see our extensive range of Cosi chairs including our single and dual motor recliners.

We also have a full range of mobility scooters and everything else you need, from walking sticks to bath lifts.

Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.00pm Saturday 9.30am – 12.30pm Closed Bank Holidays • Other times by appointment

Units 1 & 2 Great Western road, Martock

0800 731 7078

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Dispatches of twinkle toes! Jenny (Bob’s wife) is costume designer and seamstress and it is not unknown for her to burn the midnight oil, the closer it gets to carnival time, to produce her sparkling costumes.

And finally, the cart is coming along well – everything is on schedule – lots of moving parts – and all working! Chairman, Giggy Burch, has been amazed and impressed by the dedication and variety of hidden talents that have emerged within his building team.

Roll on Carnival season – we hope you all enjoy it as much as we do.

Martock Gardening Society

On Tuesday 11th September Martock Gardening Society present a talk at Martock School entitled ‘What is an Orchid?’ by Blair Sibun of the British Orchid Society. Find out how to keep these plants producing their extraordinary flowers in your sitting room for months on end.

Coffee 7pm, talk starts 7.30pm, £1.50 for non-members. More info from Jenny Becker 01935 822144.

Gloving display set up in vacant Quedam shop

SSDC heritage Team have created a display of gloving tools and gloving history in the former Whittard of Chelsea shop in the Quedam Shopping Centre in Yeovil. Items such as gloving shears, cutters and leather gloves reflects Yeovil’s former key industry. There is also a timeline of important moments in Yeovil’s history. The display, which can be viewed until 2nd October, gives the public a great opportunity to see some of the more traditional gloving tools used and gives people a quick glimpse of the history of gloving and Yeovil.

Mid-Somerset Camera Club

The new club season of MidSomerset Camera Club starts with a Show & Tell evening on Tuesday 4th September. An informal evening for members to show prints, digital images or Avs Audio Visuals (max 5 minutes) taken over the summer months.

MSCC is a friendly group of people who are interested in the art of photography. You don’t have to be a professional to join members have varying levels of ability.

Club meeting are held on Tuesdays at Tor Leisure, Street Road, Glastonbury, BA6 9EF. Everyone welcome. For more information visit www. midsomersetcameraclub.org.uk

Valuing Carers

Do you, or anyone you know, regularly look after a relative, partner or friend who cannot look after themselves through illness or age? If so, quite separately from your normal relationship, you have taken on an extra unpaid job. Carers UK has found out that 84% of carers did not expect this extra role and many would not have chosen it. Many of you do not recognise or acknowledge that you are carers. however there is an obligation on the social services and the NhS to provide support for unpaid carers.

In Somerset there is going to be a new dedicated service for carers run by a charity who will be called Compass Carers. It will be funded by the County Council and the NhS. To find out about this and to meet representatives of other organisations who offer help to carers go to Wells Town hall on Thursday 13th September from 10am - 2.30pm.

Coffee and lunch will be available but if you would like lunch you must let Sally Corbett know before 6th September on 01749 673111 or email her at: sally2482atc@aol.com Find out what is available to

help your circumstances, you will be welcomed by members of Carers UK East Somerset Branch.

Castle Cary Fire Station

The Fire Station at Castle Cary has recently been extended and refurbished and an Open Day is planned for Saturday 8th September. The open day will allow the public to have a good look around the station and see what equipment they have both on (and off) the fire engine, as well as the recently added lecture room which is also available for use as a community room.

There will be fire safety talks for children and they will be allowed to squirt the fire hose.

Parents will be offered fire safety advice and arrangments can be made to visit properties to fit smoke detectors if needed.

For the slightly older children a VW transporter van has been kitted out with a driving simulator, huge TV screen and massive speaker to get them interested.

BBQ and refreshments will be available throughout the day.

There will also be a professional photographer on hand if kiddies (or adults) would like their photograph taken in the fire engine, and for the ladies ... a photograph with a firefighter in uniform! All can be purchased through Graham Cox Photographic Studio, Keinton Mandeville.

Dog tired of high prices? visit

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• Pet Foods • Bird & Pigeon Seeds • Full range of Toys, Hutches, Accessories ... all at competitive prices Ample FREE PARking outside the Door Find us at Forward Garage on the main A30 between Sherborne & Yeovil

Tel: 01935 411859 .

FUNERAL SERVICES

We hear That after all the apprehension and doubt as to whether, as a nation, we could ‘pull it off’, we can now definitely say that the 2012 Olympics has put the GREAT back in Britain - and our Team GB athletes were stupendous.

That after seeing the Queen and having a BBQ fit for a king, in the company of the heavy gang - Mrs Posh of Wimborne is having a right royal 65th birthday.

That when visiting the New Forest Show, John ‘hot legs’ hamblin of Yeovil prefers to show rather than to be too enclosed in the enclosure.

That rumour has it that Yeovil’s retired ‘Ronny the White Rabbit’ was mobbed at Skiathos during his recent globetrottings - having been mistaken for that popular singer Barry Manilow.

That Mike Stone of Milborne Port has recently made his TV debut on This Morning in the ‘hunks in trunks’ feature.

That Stourton Caundle will be a hive of activity over the Bank holiday Weekend when the village hosts its Traditional Arts Weekend.

That Lin Penn of Shepton Mallet is particulary fond of brown bears and has been known to eat a whole one.

That a crane was almost required for Gwyn Phillips of Castle Cary following a game of ‘sit on the ball’ with his two-yearold grand-daughter.

That when Bridesmaid Miss hannah Moore of Castle Cary said her feet hurt - her friend was quick to point out that her shoes were on the wrong feet!

That contributions to this column are always welcome, by telephone, post or email.

Anonymous entries however, will not be published.

Wakely BrOTherS lTd independent Family Funeral directors • Golden Charter Pre Paid Funeral Plans • 24 hour Service.

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The Old Police Station, Carrington Way WinCanTOn Ba9 9JS Tel: 01963 31310 ThE VISITOR September 2012 7

Wine & dine British Cheese Week Saturday 22nd – Sunday 30th September 2012 ... And The Great British Cheese Festival 22nd & 23rd September IF YOU LOVE GREAT FOOD, great fun and great company, then go along to the Great British Cheese Festival. Set against the magnificent backdrop of Cardiff Castle and surrounded by hundreds of amazing British cheeses as well as beers, ciders and wines, you won’t be disappointed! And there’s plenty of entertainment too!

British Cheese Week starts with the announcement of the winners at the Awards Dinner on Friday 21st September and the Festival opens on Saturday 22nd September. The winners are the focal point of this nationwide campaign designed to promote all British Cheese.

Visitors will be able to Taste the diversity of British cheese; Explore different aspects, styles or regions of cheese; Match cheese with wines, beers, ciders and perry; Learn what it takes to make an award-winning cheese and discover the key to unlocking the mystery behind wine.

One of the key features of the festival is the chance to find out more about cheese, with a series of Masterclasses and Demonstrations, with three venues dedicated to educating and inspiring visitors.

Throughout the day bands will be playing so when you've toured the markets and weighed yourselves down with lots of fine things to eat, buy yourself a drink, listen to some fine live music and soak up the atmosphere.

Once refreshed you may want to try your hand at the World Cheese Tossing Championships or perhaps enter the Cheese Skittles with Lincolnshire Poacher - an appalling but hilarious use for this exceptional cheese but always loads of laughs! The rules are simple, the participants are enthusiastic and the skill required is minimal. Go and watch or ... put together a team!

Sponsored by Ryvita and supported by cheesemakers, retailers, restaurants and the media British Cheese Week also coincides with British Food Fortnight.

8 ThE VISITOR September 2012

Goat’s Cheese and Shallot Marmalade Bruschetta

Ingredients 4 thick slices crusty bread 1 clove garlic, peeled Olive oil to drizzle Salt and freshly ground black pepper 300g Capricorn goat's cheese log cut into discs 1 tbsp butter 1 tbsp olive oil 12 shallots, sliced ½ tsp thyme, stripped from stalks 25ml red wine vinegar 12 peeled walnut halves Chopped parsley Method 1. Place butter, olive oil, shallots and thyme in a pan over a medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes, until soft. Stir in the vinegar, reduce the heat and continue to cook for 40 minutes until sticky, stirring occasionally to prevent the shallots from sticking.

2. Cut the garlic clove in half and rub cut edge on top side of the bread (toast it lightly b eforeha nd if you wish).

Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with sea salt and ground black pepper.

3. Place Capricorn goat's cheese cut into rounds onto the bruschetta, and pop under a hot grill for two minutes. Top with the shallot marmalade, walnuts and chopped parsley.

4. Served with warmed bread, makes a delicious starter for 4.

Quinoa Salad with Yorkshire Fine Fettle, Tenderstem & Pomegranate

Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: up to 20 minutes Ingredients 300g Quinoa 200g pack Tenderstem broccoli 1 large handful of pumpkin seeds 200g Yorkshire Fine Fettle cheese, crumbled Seeds from 1 pomegranate 1 large handful of mint leaves, roughly chopped 1 large handful of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped 3-4 ripe tomatoes, deseeded and chopped 1 bunch spring onions, finely sliced 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 3 tbsp lemon juice Method 1. Cook the Quinoa according to the packet instructions. Leave to cool in a large mixing bowl.

2. Meanwhile, the Tenderstem can be cut into small bite-size pieces and either lightly steamed or boiled, until just tender (4-5 minutes will be about right) and also left to cool.

3. heat a small frying pan and lightly toast the pumpkin seeds until they are slightly crunchy. Remove from the pan and leave to cool.

4. O n c e t h e Q u i n o a a n d Tenderstem are cool, stir together along with the Yorkshire Fine Fettle, pomegranate seeds, herbs, tomato, spring onions, olive oil and lemon juice. Season with a little salt, (the feta cheese will add a salty flavour) and a good twist of black pepper. Toss together until everything is combined and

either serve straight away or keep in the fridge.

Serves 4. www.tenderstem.co.uk

Godminster Wins Gold

Judges at Great Taste 2012 recognised the outstanding and complex flavours of Godminster’s new organic bries and awarded Godminster four gold medals for its organic brie, organic brie with peppercorns, and holywell, the newest organic soft cheese which is made with milk from the Godminster farm. A gold was also awarded for Godminster’s handmade rosemary water biscuits.

Commenting, Jessica Kimberholloway said: ‘Everyone here at Godminster is delighted, we j us t ca n’ t s t o p s m i l i ng . W e recently moved our organic soft cheese production, which as everyone in the cheese industry will understand, came with a few difficulties, to win gold medals for these cheeses shows that all the hard work we went through to ensure the soft cheeses were perfect in every way has paid off.

Our rosemary water biscuits are made by a local baker in Wincanton and the rosemary is again from the Godminster farm.

We were delighted with the new biscuits and it’s great to have that reinforced by Great Taste 2012.’

Judges from Great Taste 2012 said: ‘Godminster’s new organic bries have a complexity of flavours that increase with time.

They have a lovely creaminess with an earthy flavour and no aftertaste.’

Brown and Forrest

If you're visiting Somerset, or lucky enough to live here, you should take time to visit one of the UK's leading fine food suppliers - the Brown and Forrest Smokery, in hambridge.

Set in the heart of the Somerset Levels, this award winning smokery has a reputation for supplying the finest smoked produce to some of the best shops and restaurants in the land.

You can visit Brown and Forrest, enjoy a delicious lunch as well as taking a stroll around the smokery shop to buy some of their award winning smoked foods to savour at home.

‘The finest smoked food, produced with care, passion and integrity’.

For further information call the smokery on 01458 250875 or visit www.brownandforrest.co.uk

Taste of the WEST COUNTRY Bower Hinton Farm Shop

Bower hinton Farm has been owned and run by the Palmer family for over 160 years.

The Farm Shop was opened by Duncan and Sally Palmer in April 2006. The six years since have seen it grow and improve in small stages so that today it can offer a substantial range of quality, affordable products.

Duncan specialises in growing outdoor vegetables and salads plus indoor strawberries. Produce is harvested daily to maintain

freshness and as he harvests it all himself, quality is maintained.

Currently, home grown produce includes - cauliflowers, bunched carrots, primo cabbage, and runner beans, with autumn strawberries ready soon. All home grown produce is competitively priced as there are no 'food miles' or 'middle men' involved!

Why not enjoy a cup of delicious coffee in the new coffee shop. Coffee supplied by Reads of Sherborne and tasty homemade cakes made by helen and Jane in the shop marketed under the JJs Cakes label - lemon drizzle and coffee and walnut are just two of many flavours.

Bower hinton Farm Shop is a proper farm shop on a real working farm.

L & C Game

A family run business set in the heart of Dorset. L & C Game specialize in Sika venison, a

hidden treasure of Dorset, it is similar in taste to beef which is a good introduction to venison if wary about a ‘gamey’ taste.

They also deal in four other types of venison.

Only wild game such as guinea fowl, quail, boar and venison is sold at L & C Game, it is available vacuum packed fresh or frozen. A new range recently introduced are homemade pates and terrines.

Sales are made to the general public at the farm gate, local farmers markets and to catering outlets. Deliveries can be arranged.

Traditional smoking and dry curing processes are also undertaken on the premises.

Please telephone to place an order or for further details.

L & C Game

Court Farm Buckland Newton sPeCialisT GaMe dealers Processors, Smokers & Curers Family-Run Business

Full Members of ‘Direct from Dorset’ All our stock is cared for solely by nature without interference. This means No antibiotics, No growth promoters and above all No stress.

Local wild venison and game always available to caterers and general public. Call us and see if we are at a Farmers’ Market in your area.

Call Adrian or Carolyn on

01300 345271

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock Always a wonderful selection of fresh fruit and vegetables at sensible prices at Root & Vine of Sturminster Newton. A good choice of cut flowers and pot plants also available.

Open Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 6.00pm

vegetables & Fruit in season Our own bunched Carrots, Cauliflower, Courgettes, Potatoes, Runner Beans and Cabbages now available Autumn Strawberries - 2nd Week of September Local Meat - Joints - Sausages - Bacon - Poultry Frozen - Pastries - Fruits - Vegetables - Ready Meals Draught and Bottled Local Cider - Free Range Eggs Jams - Preserves - Cheese - Cakes - Pickles - Wines

n

autumn strawberries 2nd Week SePtembeR

Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Tel: 01935 827743 Your local independent greengrocer

A Smokery Restaurant and Shop you can visit ...

Learn about the Craft of Smoking then enjoy coffee, lunch or tea in our LICenSed ReStauRant featuring food produced in the smokery.

Our well stocked shop has plenty of fine food for you to enjoy at home!

RESTAURANT OPEN 10am - 4pm MONDAY - SATURDAY  Mail order serviCe available  BROCHURE AVAiLABLE

The Smokery Restaurant & Shop Bowden's Farm, Hambridge nr. Langport Tel: (01458) 250875 * www.brownandforrest.co.uk DiRECtiOnS: from Curry Rivel take the Ilminster road to Hambridge, turn left on the sharp bend, signed Brown & Forrest. Follow drive up to Smokery Parking. Follow the smoke!

ThE VISITOR September 2012 9

ANDREW BARCLAY TradiTioNal FaMilY bUTChers 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 • Fax: 01963 31249

All our meAt is NAturAllY reAreD AND sourCeD from the West CouNtrY beeF from Roundhill Farm and Clanville Manor laMb from Shepton Montague and Charlton Musgrove Free raNGe Pork from Somerset Free raNGe ChiCkeN & dUCk from Creedy Carver

Free range boNe-iN Pork ChoPs Buy tHree ...

Get oNe FREE

Chicken breasts

half leGs of laMb (old season) £9.99 each

Buy tHree ...

Get oNe FREE

Charles Dowding’s salad leaves

NeW seasoN sPriNG laMb ... from Sam Stables, Charlton Musgrove butchered to your requirements

£65 half lamb

delicious home Made Cakes, desserTs, Pies, QUiChes and sCoTCh eGGs aWard WiNNiNG MoNTGoMerY MaTUre Cheddar & keeN’s Cheddar

Large selection of Local Cheeses including

Orders taken fOr Our meat at nOrth CadburY Village stOres

Wadman’s World Famous Cream ... from their Jersey Herd

aNNaMMa’s CUisiNe

Homemade Authentic Southern indian Curry Sauces made locally by a delightful Indian Lady

Free raNGe eGGs

We take aLL MaJOR CRedIt and deBIt CaRdS

dailY deliveries To The sUrroUNdiNG area 10 ThE VISITOR September 2012

Taste of the WEST COUNTRY Andrew Barclay - Traditional Family Butchers

Andrew Barclay Butchers in Wincanton high Street, is so much more than a traditional family butcher. Not only do they serve their customers with the finest locally sourced meats, along with bacon, ham and cold meats, they are also able to offer them a tempting range of hand-made pies and pasties, ideal if you have hungry mouths to feed!

Local cheeses stocked include Montgomery and Keen’s Mature Cheddar, along with Wadman’s world famous cream from their Jersey herd and free range eggs.

There are always special offers available at Andrew Barclay Butchers (see advert for details), so pop in and stock up your freezer! The friendly and helpful staff will be pleased to serve you, but if you can’t get in to Wincanton orders are taken at North Cadbury Village Stores.

Buy local for delicious fresh produce.

LOOKING GOOD Family Health with

Jenna evans Superfoods – Part 23

ThIS MONTh we’ll be focussing on just one ‘nut’ - Coconut. A plant so useful and nutritionally valued it deserves an article of its own!

Coconut is a seed from the fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), called the ‘tree of life’ in the Philippines. One of our oldest plant foods, coconuts are mentioned in the Sanskrit Vedas, ancient hindu texts, where they are said to nourish, strengthen the body and promote beautiful skin and hair.

Coconut Butter / Fat - Coconut is a highly saturated fat, but unlike other saturated fats coconut is comprised of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs)– associated with many health promoting effects. Don’t be put off by the word saturated! We may have been led to believe that saturated = bad, unsaturated = good but this is a misleading and highly simplified argument.

Coconut fat is actually highly prized by many for benefits such as raising ‘good’ hDL cholesterol (heart protective), and promoting weight loss – this may seem like

a paradox but the MCTs in coconut fat provide a very efficient fuel source for the body and are thought to have a beneficial effect on metabolism.

The MCTs in coconut such as lauric and capric acids are also noted for potent anti-microbial activity, fighting several viruses and bacteria as well as yeasts and parasites. Coconut is often recommended as part of an anticandida regime. The oil is also very stable making it ideal for cooking.

Coconut oil makes an excellent moisturiser for the skin and conditioner for the hair – especially good for taming frizzy hair. Damaged and dry skins can benefit from regular application as could fungal infections.

You will find two types of coconut oil in the shops, one much more expensive than the other.

The pricey coconut oil should be organic & cold pressed, unrefined and possibly sold as raw. This is the only coconut oil I would use myself. The cheaper variety has been heavily processed, usually in an effort to make it odourless for cosmetic and culinary use.

Unfortunately this, as with all oil, will inevitably destroy the nutrient content. You may find this cheap oil does a perfectly good job as a hair and body oil but I wouldn’t recommend it for nutritional purposes.

Coconut flesh is an excellent source of manganese, molybdenum and copper as well as providing good levels of zinc and selenium. Coconut flesh is also a high fibre food, indicating its use in regulating blood sugar and aiding bowel health. The flesh is pressed to make coconut milk and cream and can be processed to make a tasty gluten free, grain free flour.

The Dress Circle Dress Agency

Quality FaShion iteMS wanted to Sell on a coMMiSSion baSiS Wedding hats, wedding outfits, cruise wear and good quality casual wear and accessories, accepted every day ...

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

For a flattering figure - Not Your Daughters Jeans - this seasons must have - available in red, black and denim at Shirley Allum Fashions of Shaftesbury.

For large quantities collections can be arranged

4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY  01458 273485 ThE VISITOR September 2012 11

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE Coconut Water has gained immense popularity over the last couple of years. Coconut water is rich in minerals especially potassium and low in calories making it a good isotonic sports drink (much better than some of those flavoured, sugar waters that are so popular!) If you like the flavour of coconut it makes a refreshing and nutritious drink.

Coconut water has also been used medicinally to treat intestinal worms, urinary disorders and water retention.

The excellent hydrating properties of coconut water have made it popular for treating dehydration and there are some reports it has even been used intravenously as a hydrating agent in remote areas where saline was unavailable.

Just before I wrap this up, here are a few more uses of parts of that incredibly useful Stand out from the crowd with one of these beautiful jackets.

You will find a wide selection for all occasions at Sturlettos in Sturminster Newton.

Get out and about - be independent with ...

 Scooters and Wheelchairs Sales & Hire also Second Hand

 Extended Range of Rise & Recline Chairs  Electric Beds  Full Range of Everyday Living Aids  Finance Available On Request ... friendly and helpful advice - do call in

146 high street, sTreeT, ba16 0er  01458 448355 Also at - 14 Priory road, Wells, ba5 1sY  01749 675599 www.mendipmobility.co.uk

eXCitiNG NeW fAshioN shoWrooms NoW oPeN autumn Stock now arriving ...  Great Plains  In Town  Pomodoro  Lazy Jack - and more!  Jewellery & Accessories

7 high Street, castle cary, ba7 7an  01963 351352 www.needfulthings.uk.com 12 ThE VISITOR September 2012

tree, the coconut palm. Roots – used to treat dysentery and other gastrointestinal complaints. Bark – used to treat scabies (as a poultice), toothache and earache. Flowers – astringent healer for intestinal and urinary complaints. Stalks – can be distilled into a spirit called Arrack. husk - coir (the fibre from the husk of the coconut) is used as a material to make items such as mats, ropes, sacks and biodegradable plant pots.

That’s all for now, more super foods next month.

Jenna evans.

Never dramatically change your diet without the guidance of a health professional, especially if you have an existing health issue. Ceres Natural Foods in Yeovil have a good selection of nuts and seeds and can help with any further queries you may have. See front page of this months Visitor for details.

closet

A recent addition to Castle Cary’s town centre is the newly opened ‘closet’. here you will find vintage inspired ladies fashion at sensible prices – pretty print dresses, tailored shorts, chiffon tops and much more. Fashion houses stocked include Fever of London, Darling and Amarie.

Proving very popular since opening are the wonderfully stylish handbags and purses.

Designer silver jewellery and printed scarves are also proving useful accessories.

Owned and run by Antonia Griffin ‘closet’ also offers an eclectic mix of home furnishings including mirrors, large wall clocks, decorative mannequins and painted furniture. Antonia restores and paints the furniture herself and is pleased to undertake commissions. To find out more why not call in?

closet More than just beautiful clothes ...

Painted furniture and interiors 3 Francis House, Fore Street Castle Cary, BA7 7BQ Tel: 01963 351502

Autumn Weddings PlAnnInG A WEDDInG can be a daunting task and you may not know where to start. Stationery; church wedding or civil ceremony; reception venue; cars; dresses; flowers, rings; gifts; photographer;

honeymoon - the list goes on.

Over the following eleven pages you will find a variety of businesses that will be pleased to assist you with your choice and make your wedding a day to remember.

Preston Hotel - yeovil

Conveniently situated on the outskirts of Yeovil, The Preston Hotel offers an ideal venue for smaller weddings, private parties and corporate events, with very competitively priced room hire charges and menus.

Weddings of up to 40 seated and approximately 55 buffet style can be catered for, with a range of quality menus to suit most budgets. Brochure available to download from their website.

Meetings/seminars are welcome – any size large or small from 2 to 40 with free wi-fi.

Various seating plan options are available. Further details on their website.

The Preston has its own car park to the rear and offers disabled access. Situated near both the Church and the crematorium it is an ideal venue for Christenings, Weddings and Wakes.

An ideal party venue for all

celebrations including birthdays, (afternoon tea parties for ladies from 5 to 105). Fancy muffins are a speciality and can be themed.

For further details of all their services please visit the website www.theprestoninyeovil.co.uk email: eat@theprestoninyeovil. co.uk or call on 01935 474400.

Posh Frocks Fashion Show

ABC Wedding Dresses of Yeovil will be holding a Posh Frocks Fashion Show in aid of St. Margaret’s Hospice on Tuesday 23rd October at Westlands Sports and Social Complex. The evening will showcase sophisticated Evening Wear, Prom Dresses, Mother of the Bride, Bridesmaid Dresses and Bridal Gowns. The show will also preview the Ronald Joyce 2013 range of wedding gowns. Models are required, size 14 plus.

For tickets to the show and full details contact ABC Wedding Dresses of Yeovil.

POSH FROCKS FASHION SHOW

Tuesday 23rd October, 7.30pm Westlands Sports & Social Complex, Yeovil Prom Dresses, Sophisticated Evening Gowns Wedding Gowns, Mother of the Bride, Bridesmaid Dresses £2 ENTRY proceeds to St. Margaret’s Hospice Two of the ball gowns available from ABC Wedding Dresses of Yeovil.

Left, a chiffon dress in cobalt blue with diamond trim on bodice and shoulder. Right, violet fishtail gown in taffeta with jewel encrusted bodice. Just a sample from the ABC range, available in sizes 8 - 40.

Tickets from ...

5 South Western Terrace YEOVIL, Somerset, BA20 1NB Tel: 01935 425331

fashion boutique & designer room

Stunning Style ...

Ideal Venue for Weddings, Parties and Corporate Events

Mother of the Bride and Special Occasion Wear

Private Function Room with Original Period Features Range of Seated and Buffet Menus to Suit all Budgets VERy COmPEtItIVE ROOm HIRE Various Seating Layouts Available Car Park ✴ Free Wi-Fi Preferred Hotel Rates for Wedding Family & Friends

Co-ordinating Shoes, Hats, Fascinators and Jewellery

Fashion Show

Tuesday 2nd October aT WincanTOn TOWn HaLL

For all enquiries please email: eat@theprestoninyeovil.co.uk or tel: 01935 474400 Our Wedding Pack can be downloaded from our website: www.theprestoninyeovil.co.uk

64 Preston Road, yEOVIL, Somerset BA20 2DL

... tickets available from shop

Market Place Wincanton 01963 31676

Shopping Parade Langport 01458 252010 THE VISITOR September 2012 13

Autumn Weddings the Perfect Wedding ... in Wells

Whether it's an intimate wedding, a reception for 90 guests, or the wedding ceremony itself, the Swan Hotel provides the perfect setting in the shadow of Wells Cathedral.

The Garden Room is licensed for Civil Ceremonies and allows guests to spill out into the secluded Walled Garden. After a drinks reception guests can make their way to the Oak Room for the wedding breakfast (up to 90) which has its own separate bar area and a built-in dance floor.

For evening receptions, the Oak Room and Garden room can be hired jointly for wedding parties of up to 150 guests.

Luxurious Cathedral Suite

The Cathedral Suite at the Swan Hotel consists of a sumptuous

bedroom, sitting room and bathroom where you can enjoy unrivalled panoramic views of Wells Cathedral. £500 – 1 night Saturday £300 – Any other night £300 per night – for a 2 night stay including Saturday Prices include Chocolates, Champagne, Flowers and your very own car park space. Visit www.swanhotelwells.co.uk

House and Garden Flowers

liz Hull of House and Garden Flowers is full of inspirational ideas for bespoke floral decorations on every scale. liz likes to work with traditional, country garden flowers – such as roses, cornflowers and sweet peas to make stunning natural looking fragrant arrangements.

Wells Cathedral, a stunning back-drop for photographs. The Best Western Swan Hotel offers the ideal wedding venue.

Photograph by Eric Purchase.

This dramatic and atmospheric photograph is by Camelot Photographic, Wincanton.

14 THE VISITOR September 2012

Autumn Weddings If requested, liz can put together floral arrangements that will dry naturally so that they are preserved as a memento.

On a larger scale, for gazebos and marquees House and Garden Flowers offer hanging arrangements as an alternative option or to accompany table decorations. liz can supply and arrange

fabulous flowers for weddings, parties and events. For the festive season House and Garden Flowers can design and provide you with attractive door wreaths and table decorations for your home. liz is pleased to discuss your personal requirements and can tailor arrangements to suit your budget. Please call 01963 370671 to discuss.

The Jewellers of Yeovil Where Quality & Service Count

Ward & Sibley Extensive range of Wedding Rings ď‚Ť Special Orders undertaken Wide range of Bridesmaid, Page Boy & Best Man Gifts

THE CASKET, 103 MIddlE STREET, YEOvIl Tel: 01935 474065

Car Park at Rear for Customers while visiting the shop

This beautiful door arrangement is by Liz Hull, House and Garden Flowers.

Weddings, Parties and Events Tel: Liz Hull 01963 370671

THE VISITOR September 2012 15

Autumn Weddings

The new Ella Bridals 2012-2013 collection. Style 5689 lace over soft crushed taffeta gown. Cupids Corner of Gillingham.

Cupids Corner

In addition to the exciting and diverse collection of beautiful wedding gowns, Cupids Corner stocks a huge range of Bridal Accessories and Jewellery. new for Autumn 2012 the collection will include luxurious fur wraps for winter weddings, beautiful lace boleros, satin boleros and more!

The fabulous headpieces and veils on offer, can give that very special finishing touch which is so important to bring the bride’s look

together, as well as the opportunity for her to add her individual style.

Cupids Corner offers brides the whole package, in a friendly and comfortable environment, with gown prices from around £500 for a sample gown (ready to wear mainly sizes 12, 14), to a maximum of £1,400 for Designer gowns made to order.

Superb styling and fit are central to the whole collection, giving curves in all the right

Cupids Corner Bridal Design

Wedding Gowns Bridesmaids Dresses Flower Girls Dresses Accessories Jewellery Shoes

01747 825525 8 Newbury Court Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QX

www.cupidscorner-bridalwear.com 16 THE VISITOR September 2012

Ella Bridals 2012-2013, style 5676 Charmeuse gown with one shoulder detail. Cupids Corner of Gillingham.

places to flatter any figure, from tiny to plus size ladies.

To bring the whole look of the wedding party together brides can explore the amazing choice of Bridesmaids and Flower girl’s dresses. With a wide colour choice and three ranges to choose from there is a dress for every style of wedding.

Please call 01747 825525 for appointments or for more info visit the website at: www. cupidscornerbridalwear.com

like us at Facebook.com/ cupidscornerbridal

Shirley Allum Fashions

Whether you're looking as mother of the bride, mother of the groom or as an invited guest we all want to look our best and make a statement and Shirley Allum Fashions and lingerie has brought together all of this season's best wedding outfits, dresses, jackets, shoes and accessories that are just perfect for the big day in sizes ranging from 10 to 30.

Also stocked are all those important 'little extras' to complement your outfit, from bags to shoes, elegant jewellery, stunning hats and fascinators as well as a handmade range of silk hats with over 150 colours to match your outfit. Shirley will assist you to complete your outfit.

Over 50 labels including Gold, Personal Choice, Joseph Ribkoff, Frank Lyman, Doris Streich,

Autumn Weddings Eugen Klein, Gerry Weber, and Masai.

One of the secrets to looking great is what you’re wearing

underneath, and at the rear of the store is an extensive lingerie department which includes over 2,500 bras. The Shapewear

Collection slims and shapes with comfortable support, from everyday smoothing to Ultra firm support. View their extensive lingerie collection online www.zebralingerie.co.uk

the Grange at Oborne

The Grange is a small privately owned and family run business.

Jenny and Jon will meet with you as often as you wish in the run up to your wedding. They will be there along the way to offer their advice and expertise and will create a day uniquely designed for you. You may find it helpful to

Diamond set, shaped wedding band with matching engagement ring. Just an example from the many available from Ayerst & Graces of Street.

Most rings are available in a choice of metals to include yellow gold, silver, white gold, platinum and palladium.

Rachel Ayerst also offers a bespoke service.

take advantage of the relationship that they have with a number of local suppliers, to achieve your perfect day.

They will be in attendance on the day and, with the information you have given them, will organise and manage your wedding. Whether you would like a grand, lavish wedding or simply an intimate gathering of your very closest friends and family, Jenny and Jon will do everything they can to exceed your expectations and they will ensure that you receive their undivided attention.

Where jewellery meets design British innovative jewellery for every occasion 54 High Street, Street, Somerset, BA16 0EQ Tel: 01458 898242 Email: ayerstandgraces@yahoo.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2012 17

Autumn Weddings Orange Blossom

Your wedding dress will be the most important dress you will ever buy, so you need to ensure that you receive expert guidance and exceptional personal service at this most special of times.

With over 18 years experience in helping brides to find their perfect wedding gown and exceptional attention to detail, a visit to Orange Blossom Bridal Boutique in Street is a must!

They have a stunning collection of bridal gowns to suit all budgets (£450-£1500) including their own Private Collection. You, as many brides have already discovered, do not have to travel to large towns to

find a wide choice of gowns, Orange Blossom have styles ranging from simple and elegant, exquisite vintage lace, to full skirted fairy-tale, all to be tried on in a relaxed and friendly boutique. Their private changing room, complete with stage, is perfect for the bride and her party. They also offer Men’s Formal Hire, with special discount packages available.

Please call Christina on 01458 840006 for more information or visit the website at www.orangeblossombridal.co.uk Pictured right: just one of the many stunning gowns available from Orange Blossom of Street.

Blooming Linda’s

QuAlity WeDDing FloWerS

imaginatively designed, traditional or contemporary ... at prices to suit all budgets Silk Wedding Flowers also available ✳ Gifts, Accessories, Chocolates Flowers Sent Locally, Nationally and Internationally

tel / Fax: 01458 273030

email: bloominglindas@btconnect.com Order flowers directly through www.bloominglindas@btconnect.com

47 West Street • Somerton • tA11 6PD

autumn Bridal Promotion

20% OFF

Wedding Dress Cleaning

Bridalwear Menswear Prom & Eveningwear Accessories

Maximum discount, cannot to be used in conjunction with any other offer, or discount cards.

Direct sale only - not available through Agencies.

Mon - Sat 10.00 - 4.30 Closed Wed & Sun Appointments preferred Evening appointments available

17 / 18 Bond Street, Yeovil

Tel: 01935 421238 18 THE VISITOR September 2012

01458 840006 www.orangeblossombridal.co.uk

Autumn Weddings the Eastbury

The Eastbury is a truly magical setting for a wedding day. With a backdrop of the beautiful walled garden ... attractive restaurant or its own marquee ... an exquisite menu created by multi-award winning chefs ... a passionate team of wedding planners headed by nicky King who owns the Eastbury, and gorgeous bedrooms, for you and your guests to enjoy

the reception - the perfect romantic Dorset Wedding venue.

The Eastbury can accommodate Civil Ceremonies. They have three rooms available. The library for small intimate ceremonies for up to 20 people. The Garden Suite overlooking the walled garden which can accommodate 80 people and the Conservatory Restaurant which can cater for up to 50 people. See website for full details.

Only the best for your special day

Heather’s Flowers Fully Qualified - and with over 18 years experience Quality Wedding Flowers - Bouquets, Button Holes, Venue / Reception Call and discuss your personal requirements

Francis House, Fore Street, castle cary Ba7 7BQ  01963 350525  heathers.flowers@live.com “Flowers and plants for all occasions”

The BROOk HOuSE Inn Castle Cary

This elegant table decoration is by Heather’s Flowers of Castle Cary.

Jane’s of Somerton

Have you found Jane’s Dress Agency of Somerton yet? The stock at Jane’s is constantly changing. If you are attending a wedding, a special occasion or perhaps going on a cruise, there is always a good choice of occasion-wear available plus hats, jewellery, shoes and bags.

Jane and her helpful staff will be pleased to advise on putting an outfit together. If you are looking for something in

‘carS FOr aLL OccaSiOnS’ Contact JOn on PREFECtIOn@hotmail.co.uk tel: 07860 337788 or 07944 312302

WEDDING FAYRE

Style

for every occasion

particular please ask, and they will try and source it for you.

Do call in, the showrooms are over two floors with an excellent range of sizes to suit everyone.

tHE IDEAL WEDDInG VEnuE that caters for all budgets, both large and small, and your Reception can even be held inside or outside.

We can help make your ‘Special Day’ even more special!

Please contact Lynn @ the Brook House Inn & touring Park Station Road, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7PF • tel: 01963 350188 Email: brookhouseinn@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.brookhouseinn-touringpark.co.uk Also the home of ...

Sunday 16th September 11.30am – 4.00pm ✴ Admission Free ✴

Dress Agency Jane Lazenbury

for a superb choice of quality ladies wear (sizes 8 – 26) at a fraction of their original price new MAny Designer LAbeLs HAts & Accessories

The Triangle • Somerton 30 YArdS frOm ThE POST OffICE

Tel: 01458 273711

Further details Nicky King or Garry Blunden on 01935 813131 The Eastbury Hotel, Long Street, Sherborne Dorset, DT9 3BY www.theeastburyhotel.co.uk Email: enquiries@theeastburyhotel.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2012 19

Autumn Weddings One World

Maria Jones of Just Maria holds the bouquet she recently made to present to H.M. The Queen.

For a perfect figure ...

✴ Exciting NEW PREMISES

Many women spend over a hundred pounds on a special occasion outfit but spoil the whole effect by wearing the wrong underwear. An ill-fitting bra is the most common mistake to make – so ensure you have a proper fitting.

Many of us big or small have a problem area whether it is a spare tyre or a not so perfect bottom! With the invention of Miracle Suits and Magic Knickers any unsightly lumps or bumps can be smoothed away.

The Miracle Suit can make you look 10lbs lighter in 10 minutes made from lightweight materials it is extremely comfortable to wear. Elaine at Oomph and lift of Street says ‘We offer a free fitting service and encourage ladies to bring their special outfit to the shop so they can see just what a difference the correct underwear can make.’

Oomph and lift have a delightful selection of bras to suit all shapes and sizes including sports bras, girl’s first bras and mastectomy bras. They also stock swimwear including the Miracle swimwear range. For friendly and helpful advice call in today.

Offering an even wider choice of – Beautiful Bridal Accessories inc. Wellies and Brollies Unusual and Imaginative Gifts and of course ...

Stunning Flowers for Every Occasion

If you are looking for an unusual wedding gift, a visit to One World in South Petherton is a must.

Here you will find six individual showrooms over two floors displaying a beautiful range of gift items from around the world, and many of them Fairtrade.

Ceramic pots, wooden figures, rugs and hand made glass vases make unique gifts - you will also find within One World unusual greetings cards and stationery items to wrap your gift.

There is a stunning range of silver jewellery which would make an ideal gift for an older bridesmaid, and for the younger bridesmaid and pageboy there is a department with a wonderful selection of traditional toys and soft toys, including beautiful hand puppets.

One World is an amazing store, do call in.

Lawrence House Styling

At lawrence House Styling in Wincanton they know looking good can be expensive, so have created, just for you, some exclusive wedding packages, built to your needs and budget.

Whether a call out service is required, or exclusive use of their salon, they aim to give you that special treatment and pampering on your special day.

17 St. James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS

Just Maria - NOW AT the Old Chapel, Church Street, ILCHEStER tel: 01935 706121 • mobile: 07837 385734

01460 241166

www.justmaria.co.uk

Beautiful Lingerie to enhance your figure and

• Luxury OPI Manicures & Pedicures • Waxing • St. Tropez Tanning • Eye Treatments • Eyelash Extensions • Axxiüm Soak-Off Gel Lacquer • Holistic & Aromatherapy Massage • Nimue Luxury Facials • Pamper Packages • Wedding Packages • Acrylic Nail Extensions • Gift Vouchers Available

Lingerie Sports Bras - Swimwear Mastectomy Bras

Professional Fitting Service Sizes AAA to K ♥ Stockist of - Panache, Lepel, Charnos, Pour Moi, Royce non-wired bras ♥ Girls First Bra ♥ Miraclesuits - 10lbs lighter in 10 seconds ♥

Vestry Court, Vestry Road, STREET Turn by William Hill - opposite Living Homes

20 THE VISITOR September 2012

Autumn Weddings available. Proving very popular are the stunning hand embroidered jackets and tunics in silk and pashmina. Sturlettos also offer a range of handmade jewellery and tiaras. Gift vouchers are available. Do call in and see the complete range of wedding and special occasion outfits for yourself.

The Vintage Wedding Car Company

Several Vintage Cars available including Saloons and Open Tourers Ring Nick Baker for details on

01747 822745

nick@pobaker.co.uk

Elegant footwear and hats to complete your outfit can be found at Sturlettos in Sturminster Newton.

Wedding hair, hair extensions, OPI manicures and pedicures, shellac, spraytan, eyelash extensions are all available, as well as a make-up artist who would come to the salon just for you.

Be pampered and relax in their shabby chic salon and be taken care of on your special day and make it perfect in every way.

To book or discuss please call 01963 32026.

All About Hats

appointment. There are hats of all shapes, sizes and colours to match any outfit. Take along your special occasion outfit to ensure a perfect match.

Friendly and helpful advice always on hand.

Sturlettos

Sturlettos of Sturminster newton have a wonderful selection of hats to buy or to hire. They can also offer a bespoke service. Shoes, bags and scarves in a wide range of designs and colours are also

All About Hats Stoke Sub Hamdon, Somerset

A hat puts the finishing touch to any special occasion outfit so you want to be sure and take your time over your choice.

At All About Hats of Stoke Sub Hamdon you can choose at your leisure. Just call and make an

Beautiful Hats for Sale or Hire Choose from our Stunning Collection Bespoke Service Available • Stylish Shoes, Bags and Accessories • Wedding and Special Occasion Wear • Clothing for All Occasions • Hat Gallery (over 100 in stock) • Fragrances from Floris Nougat and Bronnley

Stur ettos

Beautiful Hats for Hire ... and accessories

FOOTWEAR &

Telephone: 07817 182779 Email: rosemaryegerton@talktalk.net

OUTERWEAR

2 The Parade, Station Road Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BA  01258 472012

the Halfway House Inn Country Lodge ——— Hair inspired team ———

EXCLUSIVE WEddIng PaCkagES Tailored to Suit You and Your Party Hair-Up ✶ nails ✶ Spray Tan ... only £ 70 Call in for further details of package and wedding hair styling

Southgate Road, Wincanton, Ba9 9EB Tel: 01963 32026

CHILtHORnE DOmER nr. yEOVIL tel: 01935 840350 • Fax: 01935 849006

Email: paul@halfwayhouseinn.com • www.halfwayhotelyeovil.com

New Lakeview Function Room available for Wedding Receptions seating up to 90 • Full Range of Catering Options from buffets to 5-courses • Four Poster Bridal Suite with jacuzzi and luxury steam /shower cabinet • 20 Ensuite Rooms available, including family rooms & disabled friendly room • Lake and Gardens providing an ideal backdrop for memorable photographs • Can provide a Full Wedding Package to include entertainment, decorations e.g. flowers, balloons Sunday Carvery now available 12pm - 3pm £7.95 booking is advisable Proprietor: Paul T. Rowsell FBII Our popular Wedding Features are published 3 times a year – shouldn’t you be advertising hErE? Tel: 01963 351256 THE VISITOR September 2012 21

Autumn Weddings

Big or small, you will find a superb choice of hats and fascinators at Hooper’s Hat Hire of Yeovil.

Wild Cardz

Wild Cardz of Wincanton have a superb range of cards for all occasions. They also supply a good selection of foil balloons - ideal for decorating your wedding venue - available in all shapes and colours with co-ordinating weights. Wild Cardz offer a complete decoration service or if you prefer to undertake it yourself - helium can also be hired separately.

Wedding stationery, table confetti, party poppers, wedding horse shoes and much more is on sale.

There is currently a loyalty card promotion - giving you £5 when your card is complete. A sticker is given for each £5 you spend on the Me to You Range and the Blue Nose Friends range. This includes wonderful soft toys, cards and ceramics -

your completed card is then entered in to a free prize draw to win a teddy - call in for full details.

Country Weddings

Country Weddings create beautiful flowers for weddings.

In addition to bridal flowers they can decorate the church and venue to ensure everything looks wonderful for your perfect day.

Country Weddings provide a truly bespoke service and your flowers are designed, exclusively for you to match your style - and your budget. Country Weddings are recommended by many local venues and offer a candid and refreshing approach to floral design. Visit www.country weddingsflowers.co.uk to see examples of their work or telephone 01747 860611 for an appointment.

Balloons for your Special Day arcHeS - TaBLe DecOraTiOnS - FOiL BaLLOOnS

Helium Hire, Balloons - all occasions - all colours, Weights etc.

Wedding Stationery ★ Table Confetti ★ Stag / Hen Night Items “me to you” and “my Blue nose Friends” Free PriZe DraW for TeDDY ★ Loyalty card Worth £5 ... call in for full details!

Wild Cardz - tel 01963 31234 35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9Ju This unusual table decoration is by Country Weddings of Mere.

Photograph: Jim Johnson.

Beautiful Flowers for Weddings ...

Hooper’s Hat Hire

100s of exquisite hats and fascinators to hire, buy, or made to complement your outfit

01935 706555 22 THE VISITOR September 2012

www.hoopershats.co.uk

Country Weddings As featured in brides Magazine

Tel: 01747 860611

www.countryweddingsflowers.co.uk

Autumn Weddings and includes a playlist function so that couples planning music for their big day can save links to chosen recordings for future reference.

Music At Your Service cofounder, former Polydor Records executive, John Perou, said that the inspirational Olympic tune had been the most popular selection since the website went live.

‘Pride in london 2012 combined with huge viewing audiences and an emotive theme tune seem to have made First Steps the new first choice for music to tie the knot to,’ he said.

‘Traditional favourite wedding tracks, such as Here Comes the Bride and Mendelssohn’s

Wedding March have been relegated to silver and bronze position.’ For more information: www.musicatyourservice.co.uk

An unusual posy by Just Maria who has recently moved to larger premises in Ilchester.

Graham Cox LMPA PHOTOGRAPHER Capture your SpeCiaL Day ... with professional photographs to treasure

Albums  frames  Canvases  Copying Old Photographs PorTrAiT SiTTinGS in studio or own home - family, children, pets etc. nEW inSTAnT PASSPorT PHoToGrAPHS - idEAL id Bus Passes - Gun Licences - Passports ... also Canadian Passports The Studio, High Street, Keinton Mandeville Somerset TA11 6Ed (Opposite Quarry Inn)

01458 223769 (24 hours)

A fun photograph for the album taken by photographer Graham Cox LMPA, Keinton Mandeville.

Vale travel - Where to Tie the Knot and spend the Perfect Honeymoon?

Vale Travel have a wonderful choice of fantastic destinations, from a Classical Italian City to a Paradisical Caribbean Island, or, why not say your vows in Romantic Wintery surroundings with the backdrop of Stunning Snowy Mountains?

Vale Travel staff have a wealth of experience and expertise to guide you through your options and make sure you have the perfect Wedding and Honeymoon of your dreams.

Call or visit now for all your Wedding and Honeymoon enquiries.

And Finally ... Olympics theme music Sprints to top of Wedding Favourites ...

The stirring BBC Olympics theme tune, First Steps, is set to become the nation’s favourite music to get married to, according to the

new wedding music planning website, Music At Your Service.

The website offers two-minute streamed audio clips of over 1200 contemporary and traditional wedding tracks by original artists

Function Venue For all occasions at the Gartell Light railway yenston, templecombe

 Function Room catering for up to 200 Guests  Ample Parking and two Outside Reception Areas  Picturesque views across the Blackmore Vale  Full Alcohol and Entertainment Licence  Family Run Business priding ourselves on our flexible approach to any requirement  Available for Wedding Receptions / Parties Corporate Seminars / Auctions Contact us on 01963 370752 for more details or visit www.thepinessuite.co.uk THE VISITOR September 2012 23

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

SO THE OLyMpICS ARE OVER, and despite my complete apathy toward them to start with, we caught the fever and enjoyed all of what we saw, the cycling particularly getting close attention in the Baxter domain.

We were perspiring along with the competitors, and so had to rehydrate ourselves with some nice cool beers!

Interestingly, as reported by the CAMRA magazine uninspiringly named ‘Beer’ the beer made available at the Olympic venues was labelled

‘British Bitter’ (which was actually keg John Smiths Smoothflow) and the lager was Heineken. So we didn’t know what the beer was and the lager came from Holland. This then is about as British as the soft drinks and the food that was available.

Cider was also unbranded – just labeled ‘Cider’ although it was actually keg Strongbow. So there we were with the most breweries in this country since the war, turning out a massive range of quality, truly English styles and the sole rights went to a Dutch company. This is because they just happened to be able to pay the £10million to get their oar in, although I don’t think they actually had a team of rowers.

Worse, at that great English bastion of Lords where the archery was taking place, portraits of cricketer Matthew Hoggard, Marston’s ‘beer ambassador’, were covered up and Marstons beer pumps were removed, although they are the official sponsor of the English cricket team. Meanwhile, Brains Brewery in Cardiff had to remove its beer from the Millennium Stadium whilst the women's Olympics football tournament was taking place, despite Brains being the sponsor of the Wales Rugby team, the Football

Vinny samples Curry Night at the Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas

Association of Wales and Glamorgan County Cricket Club, and they, too, had to bow out in favour of Heineken. An ‘exclusion zone’ operated around the stadium, effectively banning advertising of any other brews outside of pubs in the city centre.

Whether if they failed to comply would result in the killing of every new-born male child was not stated, although clearly the Olympic Gestapo were well and truly in control. Mike Benner, CAMRA Chief Executive said ‘As a grand spectacle showcasing

Rob & Lin welcome you to the

WYNDHAM ARMS KiNgSbuRY EpiScopi nr. MARTocK SoMERSET TA12 6AT

and the chance to enjoy our

Comedy Nights starting again on ... thursday 20th of september ❖ Delicious Sunday Lunches ❖

Delicious Homecooked Food served lunchtimes & evenings ...

Why not try our NEW Summer Menu? ✳ Traditional Sunday Roasts ✳ choice of meats

cAMRA Rated beers & ciders Saturday 25th August Live Music with RAY JONES BAND Function Room & Skittle Alley available for private hire/ parties

Tel: 01935 823239 Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com 24 THE VISITOR September 2012

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Pub Pages

everything that is great about Great Britain, it is hugely disappointing that attendees inside Olympic venues won’t have access to a range of British real ale. Such a move represents a major missed opportunity to show off one of Britain’s historic industries.’ And so say all of us!

I find it inexplicable that any business or organisation was banned from using the name ‘Olympic’ considering it has been around since ancient Greek times (I would imagine). I do recall a café which was called ‘The Olympic’ and ran into some trouble over it, even though it had been trading under the name for some time. However, the CAMRA Great British Beer Festival, normally held at Earls Court, was shifted to ‘Olympia’ and took place during the final few days of the great sporting event. perhaps some justice was done after all then?

The first thing any true beer fan would ask is ‘What was voted as Supreme Champion?’ The answer is that this year it went to the Coniston Brewery with ‘No.9 Barley Wine’ (i.e. a very Strong Brew) at 8.5%ABV (Alcohol by volume). This is only the second time a Barley Wine has won Supreme Champion, the first being the fabulous Norman’s Conquest from our local brewery at Lovington, near Castle Cary. personally I wouldn’t class this beer as a Barley Wine, but it is a beautiful beer, although difficult to find around here. So; Coniston brewery win for a second time, the first being in 1998 with their ‘Bluebird’, which is at the other end of the spectrum, a mere

3.6%ABV, a real session beer, certainly. Going back a few years it was quite strange, if a complete fallacy to think that all ‘real’ ales were strong, as many of my contemporaries seemed to think.

Will this continue to fool people that this is the case, or is it now in the psyche of the Great British public that they do indeed cover the entire range of alcohol percentages?

I trust that all you good people have signed the on-line petition against the ‘Beer Escalator’, where our wonderful government has decided that we should pay inflation + whatever-they-cancome-up-with, to make beer even more pricey. As an example, for every pint of 5%ABV ale, our near neighbours France pay 6p. We, on the other hand, pay 55p. So much for ‘harmonization in Europe’ which conveniently appears to be forgotten in this instance. please sign it!

Being a CAMRA member has many perks, and many pubs encourage visits by card carrying members simply by giving a discount, some of which are quite generous. The CAMRA Somerset Magazine ‘Pints of View’ for Summer 2012 lists a whole bunch of pubs that give such discounts, and this informative A5 size

tome can be picked up by you in one of many pubs across the County. Look out for it!

Marston’s Brewery are also running a discount scheme, where one gets a sticker to put on a card each time a beer (or lager) is purchased, and once the card is full with a mere five stickers then a free pint comes your way – just hand the card to the bar staff. Even according to my (poor) maths this is the best and biggest discount I have seen for some time. ‘Terms and conditions apply’, as they say, however these are not printed on the cards, so I cannot say how Large Car Park at rear

long this promotion will continue, but look out for this one as well, especially as Jennings and Ringwood Ales are part of the Marstons portfolio. ‘Queen Bee’ and ‘Cocky Blonde’ from the former brewery have been particularly memorable (sampled at the Rose & Crown Bradford Abbas) and Ringwood and its ‘Best’ at the same hostelry as well as several others.

Following my short mention of the ‘Bowling alley at Sandringham’ last month, I received some information from Arthur Taylor, author of three books on pub games, the latest,

Ivor welcomes you to the

QUEENS ARMS

Beer garDeN

Wraxall nr. Shepton Mallet  01749 860201 OPEN 7 DayS a WEEk ... Lunchtimes and Evenings Bookings Advised at Weekends • Children Welcome

Sunday Roast - £7.95 ★ Homemade Puds - £2.95

Children Eat FREE Friday, Saturday and Sunday!

One FREE Main Course with each adult Meal purchased off Main Menu Not including Sunday Lunch

We have a Wide and Varied Menu including Coeliac Dishes Vegetarian Choices and Smaller Portion Options

HaVINg a SPECIaL CELEbratION?

Then we can help with MENuS taILOr MaDE to suit you!

Adrian & Kate welcome you to the ...

Natterjack Inn F R E E H O U S E

Friends or Relatives Visiting?

Check out our Excellent Accommodation 7 EnsuitE LEtting Rooms Disabled Access – Viewings Welcome

Sunday 26th August JoE JAmEs 4pm start

EVErCrEECH JuNCtION

Traditional Sunday Roast + Full Menu Extensive Menu – Daily Specials

stEAK nigHt

On the A371 between Castle Cary and Shepton Mallet

tuesday – TWO 8oz Steaks and TWO Glasses of Wine - £22.50

tel 01749 860253 or Fax 01749 860757 or visit www.natterjackinn.com

for full event & menu details

totally refurbished and under new ownership

lee and louise welcome you to the ...

Fri 24th Aug - The Senile DelinquenTS Bluegrass / Celtic / Folk, 8pm, Free Admission Sat 15th Sep - ChAriTy rACe nighT - Under Starters Orders 8pm £2 Admission - Tote Betting from £1 per horse Raising Funds for the Childrens Charity www.wishhouse.co.uk ★ SIX RACE SPONSORS REQUIRED PLEASE - £10 per race ★ Fri 28th Sep - riChmonD Soul - Soul & Motown Vocalists, from 8pm Celebrating The White Post Inn’s 2 Year Anniversary of being re-opened Tickets at Bar - £5 Find us on the B3148 road from Sherborne to Marston Magna on the Somerset / Dorset border with the best views in two counties Traditional Home-Cooked Food served lunchtimes & evenings • Sunday Carvery • Ensuite B&B See website www.thewhitepost.co.uk for photos and more info

Tel: 01935 851525 • email: thewhitepost@hotmail.co.uk

BAKerS ArMS FREEHOUSE

North street, martock, tA12 6eR  01935 823346 www.bakersarmsmartock.co.uk

DIARY DATES Friday 24th August – Fair Play Saturday 1st September – Paul smith Saturday 8th September – smoking guns

Open All DAy every DAy

BAr MeAlS  FunctiOn rOOM  OutSiDe BArS THE VISITOR September 2012 25

They Say That Henry V took Gold in Archery and Robin Hood Silver, at ‘Agincourt 1415’.

That Norman Leeks of Cambridge was close to winning the £148 Euro Millions Jackpot recently - living only eleven miles from Haverhill in Suffolk.

That Weymouth was buzzing during the Olympics and anyone who stayed away, missed out.

That Woody Woodpecker is back this month - much to the delight of his fans.

That Lawrence Wadman of Holton finished his silaging with a big bang.

That Castle Cary on the 8th September is the place to be for those ladies who fantasize about men in uniform.

That at Norton Sub Hamdon Village Store “it could be you”.

That when it comes to ‘growing your own’, North Cadbury’s Doctor and Mrs Cracknell certainly know their onions ... and their beetroot ... and their courgettes ...!

That pete Lambden of yeovil is a cult figure on the Music Quiz scene.

That at yandles in Martock the new ‘craft’ of labelling and stamping will be demonstrated

by David Mounsteven.

That lucky Mavis Slater of Acorn Records in yeovil has now got extra time “a frightfully good idea.”

That a pair of spectacles (probably ladies, but possibly gentlemens) were found under the front seat of a recently purchased Nissan Note from F.J.Chalke of yeovil. If the owner would like to contact the Visitor office, they may learn something to their advantage.

That Master Thomas Feakins of Stalham is already in training for the 2024 Olympics and Miss poppy Rose Dunn of Shipdham is hoping that mountaineering and escapology will be events introduced to the Games before 2028.

That Carol and Tony, new proprietors of provender Delicatessen & Coffee Shop, in South petherton, have extended their tasty range to include Alpaca Charcuterie.

That contributions to this column are always welcome, by telephone, post or email.

Anonymous entries however, will not be published.

26 THE VISITOR September 2012

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

168 Hendford Hill YEoViL

‘played at the pub’ being mentioned on several occasions and reviewed by myself. He tells me that the alley was built in 1870 it is believed, and sadly ripped out in the early 1900’s. Gah! What

treachery! It was replaced with a library, so one assumes raucous nights were replaced by rather quieter times. There is an engraving that can be viewed on the internet, simply Google

“that night we split a rattlesnake and danced beneath the stars You fell asleep, I stayed awake and watched the passing cars” FIrSt PErSON to tell me the above song (without google help !!!) gets a free drink.

Last month Suzanne of yeovil correctly guessed that it was the Spencer Davis group and ‘keep on runnin’.

Hi gang, it’s been a pretty good month up here at the top of the hill. The Olympics came and went and thankfully we showed the world that we can put on a bit of a do. I thought the whole thing was pretty marvellous.

What say you?

During the month Luke and tasha became Mr. & Mrs. O’Malley. Congratulations to you both, it was a super day all round.

In the coming months we have decided to help raise some money for the boys and girls from Lufton College and Lucy has decided that we will be having a Sponsored Wax Off. Ouch!  We have a few volunteers and we will be picking a date soon, so watch this space.

This Bank Holiday Sunday sees one of the best piano players in the country coming to perform for us here at The Quicksilver: the ben Waters band will be live in the function room - be there or be square!

We have karaoke on the 7th of the month. Mutter Slater will be here on the 14th of September. This month Mr D’arcy will be playing on Saturday 22nd, and bill Smarme and the bizzness will be here on 28th.

Looking ahead to the first Friday in October barry Paull will be bringing his tribute to Elvis Show here in aid of St. Margarets Hospice. Tickets are available from the pub.

And finally - a barman says to Paddy “Your glass is empty would you like another ?”.

Paddy says “What the hell would I want with two empty glasses?  tOOt tOOt!!!

BookingS

 01935 424721

Landlord Pete Lambden of The Quickie in Yeovil (now celebrating 10 years) whose pop music prowess is followed locally, nationally and even internationally, and whose monthly music question receives answers from as far afield as New Zealand. Shame about his jokes!

leNt exCel

B&B

A delightful country inn!

Try our daily specials Board ... only £6.95

Tuesdays: steAK Night - 2 x 8oz rumps or 2 x 10oz gammon ... and bottle of wine £18.95 Thursdays: CURRy Night - help yourself to 3 curries + free drink only £7.95 Wednesday 19th September: thAi Night - ticket £18 ... to include all food and drink samples! ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤

Saturday 25th August Bank Holiday : BAg ‘o’ RAts Saturday 1st September: JohN RAymoNd Saturday 8th September: CRosswiRed Saturday 22nd September: iNtRUdeRs back by popular demand

The Rose & Crown

Bradford Abbas

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week



01935 474506

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

Dinnington, Nr Hinton St. George Somerset Tel: 01460 52397 • Email mike.mills-roberts@live.co.uk Traditional Country Pub Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink Fresh Fish From Beer every Friday - eat in or takeaway with chips Steak Night Wednesdays * 3 Meat Carvery every Sunday 15% OFF All Drinks Fridays 4.00pm to 6.00pm Docks Transport Society - Vintage Cars and Motorcycles every 1st Wednesday 7.00pm YOu CAN Be Sure OF GOOD vAlue AND A GreAT TiMe wHeN YOu viSiT DiNNiNGTON DOCkS !

The

ARoUnD THE

Pub Pages

‘Bowling at Sandringham 1888’ and there is the prince having a jolly fine time with his chums.

Speaking of jolly fine times with chums, our Summer skittle season may have been fun, although I cannot recall so many matches being lost by such small margins, and a visit to the lower divisions of the league may well be in order next year. Ho-hum!

Anyway, with the winter season now looming, we’ll hope to do a little better. Feel free to write to me on skittlealley@hotmail.com about any pub or beer related subject, and of course do enjoy your skittles.

H o U S E S IN yEOVIL ... pete is celebrating 10 years at the Quicksilver Mail as are his jokes (only kidding) ... welcome to new hosts at The Great Western ... enjoy a good Sunday Lunch at The White Horse Inn, Haselbury plucknett ... pork, mango and orange casserole and thai roasted salmon salad are just two of the tasty dishes available on the new menu at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton ... check out the live music programme at The Bakers Arms, Martock ... and music lovers should test their knowledge at The Rose & Crown, Bower Hinton on the 14th.

Heading on to Ham Hill where diners can enjoy stunning views at The Prince of Wales ... new take away menu will shortly be available at The Fleur de Lis Stoke Sub Hamdon ... new chef at The Kings Arms, Montacute ... always a warm welcome at WeekLY Meat DraW

Dave welcomes you to ...

the Millers Inn Silver Street, WINCaNtON • 01963 32882

NoW oPeN from 4pm (Monday - Thursday) open all Day Friday, Saturday & Sunday

Saturday Morning breakfast 9am ‘til 12noon ... FuLL ENgLISH only £4.25 including Tea / Coffee  Saturday 1st September: SuPEr HErO NIgHt Fancy Dress + AJ’s Disco, 8.30pm ‘til Late  Saturday 8th September: Mark LuCaS Live Singer, 9pm ‘til Late

Sunday roast

12noon – 2pm

 Saturday 22nd September: DaVE’S karaOkE 8.30pm ‘til Late SuNDaY roaStS • reaL aLeS • Juke Box • PooL taBLe • Large Car Park

Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...

rOyaL Oak Over Stratton, South Petherton tel: 01460 240906

A Charming Country Inn

open Bank holiday Lunchtime only (Booking Advised)

DeLICIouS NeW SeaSoNaL MeNu Lunchtime Special 2 Courses - £8.50 (Tuesday to Saturday) WeDNeSDaY & thurSDaY SPeCIaL

Surf, turf, Swine & Wine Night

tWO rump Steaks, or tWO beer battered Haddock or tWO gammon Steaks, or Any Two with a Carafe of Wine ... £19.95 per couple (Booking Advised)

✴ traditional Sunday roast ✴

Corton Denham Our Very Own Vintage Bus Cider Tour

Join us on saturday 29th september for our second Cider Tour aboard a Vintage Bus. Limited to just 30 people we will visit Bridge Farm, Perry’s and Burrow Hill (The home of The Somerset Cider Brandy Company).

Passengers will enjoy tastings at all three farms; lunch is available at Perry’s or bring a packed lunch.

Departure is 9.30 from The Queens and passengers will be back at around 6pm.

Cost £25 per person (payment in advance).

Tel: 01963 220317 • www.thequeensarms.com Email: relax@thequeensarms.com The Queens Arms, Corton Denham, sherborne, DT9 4LR

~ The ~

Manor House Inn Ditcheat

Nr. shepton mallet BA4 6RB • tel: 01749 860276

A friendly country inn Our tasty menu changes monthly and includes:

Vegetarian options Daily Fish and meat specials steaks Hand-Cut to order SeAFood Weekend 20th – 23rd September

A good selection of seafood & shellfish available ... whole lobsters available with advance notice

 BAR opEn ALL DAy  “So if you are looking for ... a candlelit dinner ... a light bite ... a drink in a friendly countryside pub ... or a quality venue for a small gathering ... please contact us and we will be happy to accommodate your needs”.

Christmas Menus now Available Bookings Now Being Taken

www.manorhouseinn.co.uk THE VISITOR September 2012 27

The

Pub Pages

The Pheilps Arms ... in Norton Sub Hamdon the flower boxes are looking good at The Lord Nelson where you will find a good choice of wine by the glass ... and in West Chinnock, Damien Hart was the winner of Summer Skittles at The Muddled Man. Stepping on to Stourton Caundle where musicians and singers will be visiting The Trooper Inn over the Bank Holiday Weekend ... The Queens Arms, Corton Denham has been awarded Best Freehouse in the West Country and are now finalists in the Great British pub Awards 2012 the final is on the 13th September so watch this space ... celebrating their 2nd anniversary since re-opening are The White Post, Rimpton where Friday is now fresh fish night, large fresh cod fillets in

delicious beer batter are served from 6.30pm to 9pm – to eat in £6.95, or to take away £6.50 ... welcome to new hosts at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury ...

The White Hart Castle Cary is now under new management ...

The Horsepond Inn is undergoing a facelift ... and brides should check out The Brook House Inn as a reception venue.

Winding our way to Wincanton where Batman and Robin could be appearing at The Millers Inn, during their Super Heroes fancy dress ... enjoy a pint and purchase local produce at The Nog Inn, the new venue for the farmers market ... fun for all the family at the Village Fete held at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague on Bank Holiday Saturday ... donations totalling over £2,500 were raised at The Natterjack, Evercreech Junction during the recent sponsored charity bike ride ... Christmas menu available at The Manor House Inn in Ditcheat ... lovely homemade puds at The Queens Arms, Wraxall - look out for Ivor’s Pavlova ... good luck to Simon who is now chefing at The Poachers Pocket, Chelynch ... and finally ... The Swan at Wells is hosting Walking Tour Weekends in November and January, see their website for full details.

The Rose and Crown Bower Hinton TA12 6JY 01935 822393

OPeN All DAY TueSDAY — SuNDAY Fri 31st Aug Sat 8th Sept Fri 14th Sept Fri 21st Sept Sat 22nd Sept Thurs 27th Sept Fri 28th Sept Sat 6th Oct

General Knowledge Quiz 'Tin Box Boys' Music Quiz Charity Race Night 'Stand Alone Empire' Open Mic Night General Knowledge Quiz 'The Dub Liberators'

BAr MeAlS ✴ Free POOl ON SuNDAYS ✴ SkiTTle AlleY www.therosiebowerhinton.co.uk

Maggie and Mike welcome you to ...

The Dolphin Inn Peacemarsh Gillingham • SP8 4HB

Delicious Homecooked Food Served Daily

HAM HILL

The south doorway and the font of the pretty little church at Middle Chinnock date from the late Norman period.

IN pREVIOuS ARTICLES about Ham Hill Country I’ve tended to focus on the hill itself, the country park and the villages on three of its sides – Odcombe, Montacute, Stoke-sub-Hamdon and Nortonsub-Hamdon. So I thought it was high time that visited the fourth side, south of the hill, to explore Chiselborough and the Chinnocks.

Sounding more like a 1960s’ pop group than a group of delightful hamstone villages, all amply repay a leisurely stroll, an exploration of their interesting churches and a visit to their welcoming pubs.

The name Chinnock, which appeared in Domesday Book of 1086 as Cinioch, is thought to be derived from the Old English ‘cinu’ meaning ‘deep valley’, and all three Chinnocks – East, Middle and West – are set in undulating countryside. Dropping down the hill into East Chinnock on the A30 road from yeovil, the view is simply superb. The 15thcentury tower of the parish church stands in front of an extensive panorama across the valley to the Dorset hills, and it’s well worth parking the car and

venturing up the hillside to admire the fine views southeastwards towards Hardington Moor. And perhaps to visit the church, famous for its modern stained glass windows that were a thanksgiving gift from a German rear-gunner for the kind way he had been treated when he laboured as a prisoner-of-war on a local farm.

Gunther Anton, a rear gunner in the Luftwaffe, was only 18 years old when he was shot down over Southampton in 1944, taken prisoner and sent to the pOW camp at Houndstone, yeovil.

Anxious about his parents living in East Germany, he began to visit East Chinnock church to pray, and after hearing that they were safe he had the idea of designing a stained glass window for the church as a way of expressing his gratitude to local people who had shown him much sympathy and understanding. He returned to Germany in 1948 and built up a stained glass business with his father. In 1962 he returned with the fine window showing scenes of Christ’s life

your hosts, Mick, Jean and garry welcome you to

The MuDDLED

MaN

Lower Street, West Chinnock

A charming village inn serving delicious home cooked food in a traditional atmosphere Food Served every Lunchtime & Evening 

FrIDay is FrESH FISH Day  With Delicious Homemade beer batter

Sunday Lunch served 12noon – 4pm and 6pm – 9pm adults £8.95 • children £5.95 Special £5 Lunch served monday – saturday

 SuNDay LuNCH - Choice of roasts - £7.95 Booking Advised 

Quiz Night every Thursday 8pm start Monthly Charity Quiz first sunday each month 8pm start

From Sunday to Thursday - tWO 8oz. rump Steak Meals for £14

 aTTRacTivE BEER GaRdEnS 

Tel: 01747 822758 28 THE VISITOR September 2012

STEak SpEcial BEER GaRdEn

aCCOMMODatION NOW aVaILabLE Homemade Daily Specials • Real Ale • Skittle Alley

Tel: 01935 881235

HAM HILL COUNTRY and ascension. In 1967 he added the north sanctuary window, of Mary and the infant Jesus and Christ the King, and in 1969 the south chancel windows depicting the four archangels. Finally in 1988 he installed a glass screen with a superimposed Agnus Dei. Further down the hill the handsome hamstone portman Arms occupies a prominent position on the A30 road in the centre of the village and attracts a lot of passing trade. Sadly the village shop and post office just round the bend from the pub is now but a distant memory, but a thriving local business can be found in the orchards just beyond the western end of the village.

Bridge Farm Shop sells its prizewinning farmhouse cider, cider brandy, apple and pear juice plus hams, pickles and seasonal potatoes. It’s worth phoning 01935 862387 to check opening times if you’re planning to purchase.

A right-hand turn off the A30 near the top of Barrows Hill is signposted to West Chinnock. This lane clings to the hillside as it winds its way to the village, but if you like old churches it’s worth making a short detour into Middle Chinnock. Where the lane makes a sharp bend to the left continue straight ahead down the hill into what is no more than a small collection of houses and farms strung along a lane – barely a hamlet yet highly attractive with its fine 17th century Manor Farm and little roadside church. Its south doorway dates from Norman times, as does the font, but the squat tower with its stone embattlements is more recent, perhaps only 500 years old!

Middle Chinnock is part of the parish of West Chinnock and it is in that much larger settlement

The

that facilities such as the primary school, pub, village hall and parish church can be found within its hilly triangle of lanes. The village pub is the Muddled Man, bedecked with colourful hanging baskets and window boxes and a suitably quirky inn sign and with a beer garden overlooking the quiet village street. It has acquired a good reputation for its food and attracts customers from a wide area. It’s close to the bottom of the hill on the north side of the village, on the road that eventually weaves its way through a cutting between wooded hills to Chiselborough, a delightful little village of no more than 150 dwellings.

It must have been settled in Anglo Saxon times, for it is recorded in Domesday Book of 1086 as Ceoselbergon, meaning ‘gravel mound or hill’ in Old English. Like the other villages surrounding Ham Hill, Chiselborough grew during the Norman and medieval periods and nowadays boasts picturesque hamstone cottages, a fine old church with a handsome spire on its central tower, a village hall and the oddly-named Cat Head Inn, alas closed since early July. This creeper-covered hamstone building dates from the 17th century and was originally a farmhouse. It became a beerhouse called the New Inn in 1896 and in recent years has been a very popular pub, restaurant and social centre of the community. Hopefully Enterprise Inns will install a new tenant or manager before too long.

If you’re interested in local history an event not to be missed is ‘Chiselborough Through The Ages’, an exhibition showing the village buildings, people, farming and social life in around 120 archive photographs, the earliest dating

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane Norton Sub Hamdon

Mark, Helen and staff welcome you to ‘The Nelson’

gooD FooD - gooD Beer - great atMoSPhere

Sunday 26 th August - ‘Bootleg Blondie’ Sunday 2 nd September - Quiz Night

By Simon & Megan in aid of Flying Colours Appeal

Friday 28 th September - ‘Elvis’ Tribute Barry Paul

★ Monday to Friday ... TWo CourSe lunCh £8 ★ ★ Tuesday & Wednesday ... TWo STeAKS & BoTTle of Wine £25 ★ CourtYarD H Beer garDeN at rear aMPLe ParkINg oPeN aLL DaY FrIDaY, SaturDaY & SuNDaY

Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.biz

Chiselborough’s fine village hall was built as a school in the 19th century.

from the 1860s. They have been selected by local resident Tony perry who has been lent more than 350 pictures from many sources, scanned them into his computer and restored , enlarged and mounted the best for the exhibition. Having been given a preview of some of them I know this will be an exhibition well worth visiting. It is being staged in the village hall on Saturday 29th September from 10.00am until 5.00pm and Sunday 30th from 2.00pm till 5.00pm. Admission is free thanks to financial help with the entire project from the district and parish councils and several village organisations and individuals. In due course Tony plans to produce a DVD of many of the pictures to sell, and the entire collection will eventually be copied to DVD for reference purposes in the village and at the heritage centres in Taunton and yeovil.

With so much to delight the eye and the imagination, Chiselborough and the Chinnocks still provide glimpses of the rural England that has been captured in old photographs and which still survives in so much of South Somerset.

Roger Richards.

Chiselborough Through The Ages Chiselborough Village Hall

A photographic history of Chiselborough, it’s people, it’s buildings, it’s social life, it’s farming community, school and way of life.

saturday 29th and sunday 30th september 10am to 5pm saturday 2pm to 5pm sunday ✳ FREE ADMISSION ✳ For information tel: 07808 778642 This event has been sponsored by the people of Chiselborough and South Somerset District Council

MonTACUTE SERViCE STATion

7

(P. L. Warry & Sons) Montacute. Tel (01935) 822271

MURCo Fuels Quality Used Car Sales

o p DA En YS

General Store & Shop: groceries, newspapers, flowers, bread, sweets, drinks, etc.

opEn Mon - Fri 6 -7.30, Sat 6 - 6.30, Sun 9 - 5

Prince of Wales Ham Hill Stoke Sub Hamdon, TA14 6RW

OpEN All DAY, EvERYDAY 8.30am – 11.00pm Food Served: 12.00noon – 9.00pm all week ✴ Homemade Afternoon Teas Chapel Function Room ✴ Skittle Alley ✴ Garden Function Area with Stage & Bar

Sunday 2nd September: Crosswired 3pm – 6pm Sunday 9th September: Flatland Boogie Band 3pm – 6pm Sunday 16th September: Quiz Night 8pm Christmas bookings now being taken  01935 822848 or email princeofwaleshamhill@hotmail.co.uk www.princeofwaleshamhill.co.uk

trip advisor recommended

THE VISITOR September 2012 29

Leisure

gold & Silver Jewellery Wanted Best prices paid for wedding rings, pendants, chains, bracelets, and broken items, etc.

phone Jenny Martin Castle Cary

01963 350733 Say you saw it in The Visitor

Beaminster Antiques, Vintage & Collectables Fair Saturday 8th September Public Hall beaminster, Dorset 9.30am – 4.00pm

small Furniture * textiles china * Glass * silver Jewellery * books * Pictures etc.

Homemade refreshments

JOHN HaMbLIN Specialists in the repair and restoration of antique furniture

Held for the 27th year at the Royal Bath & West Showground, just south of Shepton Mallet, The Motorhome Show is always a popular event and there’s no

We also offer the following services

• repairs to all types of Furniture • Bespoke Furniture made to order • French Polishing • re-Leathering of Desk tops, Bureaux, etc.

• Dining table tops refinished We have many years experience in the trade and assure you that your furniture is in safe hands

✽ Next Fair – Saturday 6 th October ✽

uNIt 6, 15 OXFOrD rOaD PEN MILL traDINg EStatE yEOVIL, SOMErSEt, ba21 5Hr tel: 01935 471154

Bookings & Enquiries

Cabinet Makers • antique Furniture restorers

Meadow Fairs 01297 24446

the Motorhome Show Shepton Mallet

john@jhamblin.fsnet.co.uk

DAIRy HOuSe ANTIQueS station Road, semley, shaftesbury Dorset sp7 9An

Tel: 01747 853317 • www.dairyhouseantiques.co.uk

monday – saturday 10am – 5pm sunday 11am – 4pm (not Bank Holiday Mondays) Approximately 3 miles north of Shaftesbury just off the A350 signed Semley Industrial Estate

PaStIMES of Sherborne we pay Top pRIcES for oLd ToyS - any condition trains • Cars • Lorries • Soldiers • Etc. Britains * Dinky * Corgi * Hornby Meccano * Tri-ang * Etc. Shop Open Mornings 9.30am - 1.00pm Monday to Saturday

Tel: 01935 816072 Mob: 07527 074343 HOME VISITS BY ARRANGEMENT

3 Westbury, Sherborne, Dorset Dt9 3EH

Antiques Bazaar

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU’LL FIND …

Vintage Market 25th - 26th August Relive the nostalgia of your youth … exploRe the fascinating 1960s era …

Search through Ceramics, Jewellery, Clothing, Collectables, Furniture & Accessories ✴ Over 50 Traders at one Indoor Venue More details on our website www.antiquesbazaar.co.uk

MU

Si

c

FOR

better place to view and compare so many different models than at everyone’s favourite show.

Over the long weekend of the 7th - 9th September everything ‘Motorhome’ will be for sale; from the latest new designs to pre-

THE

M

On

TH

August 24th HOgWaSH JuNCtION FuNCtION - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 24th FaIr PLay - Bakers Arms, Martock 24th SENILE DELINQuENtS - White Post, Rimpton 25th ray JONES baND - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi 25th bag ‘O’ ratS - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 26th bEN WatErS baND - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 26th JOE JaMES - Natterjack, Evercreech Junction 26th bOOtLEg bLONDIE - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 26th HOt StEEL - Queens Arms, Corton Denham

September 1st PauL SMItH - Bakers Arms, Martock 1st JOHN rayMOND - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 2nd CrOSSWIrED (3pm - 6pm) - Prince of Wales, Ham Hill 8th tIN bOX bOyS - Rose & Crown, Bower Hinton 8th SMOkINg guNS - - Bakers Arms, Martock 8th CrOSSWIrED - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 8th Mark LuCaS - Millers Inn, Wincanton 9th FLatLaND bOOgIE baND (3pm - 6pm) Prince of Wales, Ham Hill 14th MuttEr SLatEr - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 22nd StaND aLONE EMPIrE - Rose & Crown, Bower Hinton 22nd INtruDErS - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 22nd Mr. D’arCy - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 28th barry PauL ELVIS trIbutE - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 28th rICHMOND SOuL - White Post, Rimpton 28th bILL SMarME & tHE bIZZNESS - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil

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

By John osborne • Answers can be found on page 51 1.

Jackson Browne once declared he was ‘Running on … what?

2.

Name the Led Zeppelin song recorded by Rolf Harris.

3.

Buddy Holly and the … ?

4.

‘Happy Jack’, ‘Pictures of Lily’ and ‘I Can See for Miles’ came from which band?

5.

‘Year of the Cat’ a 1976 hit by whom?

6.

‘Distant Drums’ was a 1960’s hit for which gentleman?

7.

Who had a ‘Bad Moon Rising’ in 1969?

8.

Which Beatles film did ‘Hey Bulldog’ come from?

9.

‘Bennie and the Jets’ come from which Elton John album?

10. ‘Long Road out of Eden’ a 2007 double album by whom?

Serious double Anorak Bonus Question Name the girl who is mentioned in the lyrics of the ‘Boston’ classic ‘More than a Feeling’

Booking enquiries to 01460 77121

extra Bonus Question ‘Good Vibrations’ by the Beach Boys cost how many dollars to make? a) $ 2000 b) $ 4000 c) $8000 d) $16000

Antiques Bazaar South Street, Crewkerne

great Quotes in music (54) “I told people I was a drummer before I even had a set, I was a mental drummer” – Keith Moon.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 30 THE VISITOR September 2012

An ADvERT in THE puB pAgES EnSuRES A FREE MEnTion HERE

Antiques & Collecting

Leisure & Tra vel ramblers

If you’ve thought you would like to start walking but are not sure how to get started, why not take advantage of Mendip Ramblers FREE walking festival over the August Bank Holiday Weekend.

Each day there are 3 walks of differing lengths starting at 10.00am and a short afternoon walk starting at 1.00pm, with the option of tea and cake after each walk (for a small donation).

This year the festival is at Stratton-on-the-Fosse and all walks start from: The Village Hall Fosse Way, Stratton on the Fosse, Shepton Mallet BA3 4QQ Grid ref: ST658510. OS Explorer Map 142 - Shepton Mallet & Mendip Hills East. See www.mendipramblers.co.uk or telephone paula on 01458 860751, E: paula@mendipramblers.co.uk or Clive on 07931 382064, E: clive@mendipramblers.co.uk

Always a crowd-puller, The Motorhome Show at the Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet.

loved models along with a host of accessories from the very latest awnings, to reversing aids and high tech electronic gear, plus a great selection of outdoor leisure clothing, all at unbeatable prices.

In addition to the exhibition, visitors staying for the long weekend have a varied entertainment programme organised for them. With cabarets on Friday and Saturday evenings. Kicking off Saturday evening will be the presentation of trophies to the winners of this year’s prestigious Motorcaravan of the Year Awards. There’s also a fun craft competition on the Sunday morning and a best pet show around lunchtime, plus free mystery coach tours of the beautiful Somerset countryside (limited numbers) as well as a free shuttle bus to the nearby historic city of Wells.

The show is open from 9.30am - 5pm. Admission charge for day visitors is adults £5 per person in advance online at www.see tickets.com/stoneleisure or £7.50

per person on the day.

Accompanied children under 16 are free and day car parking is also free.

Visitors who would like to stay for the whole weekend can arrive from Thursday onwards. The weekend fee is £40 from Thursday or £35 from Friday onwards. This includes unlimited admission to the show plus all of the free evening entertainment. More details at www.TheMotorhome Show or telephone 020 8302 6069 or 01159 461146.

The 2011 Harness Champion at the Heavy Horse Show.

gartell Light railway

The Gartell Light Railway will be having it's penultimate open day of the 2012 season on 30th September (see our advertisement in this issue) and is offering all cyclists a chance to BOGOFF there on that date. yes, buy one and get one for free on the admission / train trips. Just prove you turned up on your cycle and buy a ticket and get another free for your cycling friend.

Simples!

THE VISITOR September 2012 31

Leisure & Tra vel Carnival Dates 2012

It’s carnival time once again! All carnivals take place on Saturdays, so make a note in your diary of the Wessex Grand Prix carnival dates so that you don’t miss them.

designing, building and painting their carts to bring you these wonderful illuminated processions. Go along to see the spectacle for yourself and give them your support. Money raised benefits local charities.

august

Don’t Forget

25th - Sturminster Newton

September

15th - Mere 22nd - Frome 29th - Shaftesbury

October

6th - Gillingham 13th - Castle Cary 20th - Trowbridge 27th - Warminster

Members of the Carnival Clubs have been working hard throughout the year, planning,

Shepton Montague Fete takes place in and around The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague on Saturday 25th August.

Stalls, bric-a-brac, games, tombola, raffle, food and live music to keep you entertained from 12.30pm until 4pm.

Landlords Sean and Suzy are pleased to be holding the Fete at the pub for the second year running and look forward to welcoming you.

buttercross Vintage Market

Somerton parish Rooms once again hosts the popular Buttercross Vintage Market on Saturday 8th September, from 10am-4pm. pop along for an exciting day with lots of local colour - buy unique and individual gifts made by local craftspeople using vintage materials, pick up antiques; and choose from a selection of amazing handbags, shoes, fabrics, homewares and vintage fashion.

There will be many talented makers and designers from Somerset, specifically Somerton and Langport, who come together for this event unique to the area.

Community bike ride

There will be a Community Bike Ride every Saturday starting

at 8am and finishing by 10am.

The road rides will start and end at Southwest BicycleWorks (The Old Twine Works, 42 East Street, West Coker, BA22 9BG).

The rides will be on the country lanes around West Coker / yeovil; be approximately 20 to 25 miles long and be at an easy to moderate pace. The rides are for beginners and experienced riders, everyone is welcome.

For further information call 01935 862906.

7th September Quicksilver Mail, yeovil 29th September Millers Inn, Wincanton

Cycle-Babble ~ Cycle-Babble ~ Cycle-Babble WHAT A COupLE OF MONTHS it has been for British cycling since CB last put pen to paper. All year CB has been full of superlatives for our cyclists, whether they be toughing it out on the tarmac roads of Europe or battling on the boards in various velodromes, success has come right from the time the season started back in January. However, despite that early success, everyone knew that the true tests would come in July and August. Did we ever dare hope that our cycling summer would be quite as glorious as it turned out to be?

So first to France. The Tour de France is of course road cycling’s premier event, nothing else comes close to the prestige that is bestowed upon the wearer of the coveted yellow jersey that denotes its leader. Wear yellow into paris

32 THE VISITOR September 2012

in July and your name will forever be linked with the true greats of the sport.

After 98 editions of the race Britain had never had a cyclist take yellow into paris, never even had someone on the final podium – our best placing being fourth courtesy of Robert Millar in 1984 and Bradley Wiggins in 2009, but in July, much like the London buses CB has been frequenting of late (more on that later), Britain got not one but two cyclists on the Champs Elysees podium.

Wiggins took custody of the yellow jersey after stage seven and didn’t relinquish it. He was supported superbly by his teammate Chris Froome who paced the Londoner through the mountains of the Alps and pyrenees. Froome sometimes appeared stronger than Wiggins

in the mountains and questions were asked as to why he was being held back, but this Tour was always going to be won in the time trials and with Wiggins a stronger rider against the clock, Sky knew they had backed the right man – and so it proved.

Froome’s second place was a fantastic result for him and he now goes on to August’s Vuelta a Espana as the team’s leader.

Six days after Wiggins' triumph the world’s best riders descended on London for the Olympic Games. CB was at the Games, working for the Olympic News Service and so was privileged enough to be present at all the cycling events (hence the frequenting of London buses) and got to see the reactions of our cyclists close up immediately after their races had finished.

If the men’s road race proved to be a disappointment after the Herculean efforts of Cavendish and his team on the roads of Surrey went unrewarded, the next day there was unrestrained joy when Lizzie Armitstead took Britain’s first cycling medal, winning silver on the Mall. The joy on the face of Armitstead and her teammates as they negotiated the world’s media was something to behold. It meant everything to them.

Armitstead’s win set things up nicely for the British team. Three days later Wiggins followed his Tour win by taking gold in the men’s time trial at Hampton Court. Then it was into the

velodrome for six days of intense action.

Words can’t quite do justice to the atmosphere that was present those six days in the ‘pringle’.

Right from the start of the competition, six thousand fans roared themselves hoarse, cheering Hoy et al to victory. A British rider simply had to twitch to get a reaction from the fans. As they warmed up their every move was met with cheers; a regular win in a heat was greeted as if a gold medal had been won. It was awesome. More than once interviews with riders had to be curtailed with a grin and a shrug when the noise simply got too loud to carry on.

The climax of course came on the final day. Laura Trott took gold in the omnium, Victoria pendleton won silver in her last ever ride in the sprint and then Sir Chris Hoy claimed the final gold of the competition, with a barnstorming ride in the final of the keirin. When he crossed the line CB genuinely feared the roof of the velodrome was about to finally become unhinged. A colleague, who has been present at many big sporting events, including Wimbledon finals and European Cup finals, later said that it was by far the best sporting moment he had ever witnessed.

Britain won seven gold medals out of the ten available in the velodrome, cementing a cycling summer bathed in yellow and gold. How will they ever top it?

Giles Belbin.

Hobbies & Pastimes Mike’s Music

Mike’s Music is a delightful shop and well worth a visit. As well as selling guitars, amplifiers, strings and everything for the discerning guitar player the shop also carries other instruments and sheet music etc.

Mike has been playing the guitar for 46 years and is an excellent musician. He has 70 students that he teaches in the shop studio lessons for school students are held in small classes whilst adults usually prefer one to one tuition.

The studio is an examination centre for the London College of Music and students may take exams if they wish, although it is not compulsory. Many of Mike’s students have passed LCM exams with distinction or merit, the higher grades carry uCAS points for university. Summer Guitar Exam passes with either merit or distinction were Joe Swainson, Olivia Elsdale and Ellie Hoyle.

Come and learn to play the guitar in a very relaxed atmosphere.

Mid West Office Equipment

At Mid West the Stationers in Sherborne, in addition to their large range of stationery they also stock a wealth of Hobby and Craft products. From card and papers (different weights, colours and types including tissue, and crepe)

to decorating items such as flowers, glitter, beads and ribbon to add decoration and flare. plus stick-on shapes, all ideal for card making.

Art materials from Easels, Canvas, Sketch books, scrapbooking, paints, pastels, brushes etc.

To keep all your materials tidy and together there’s a range of really useful storage boxes.

Equipment to use to create your hobby, knives, scissors, trimmers, glues for most applications and a variety of stationery items you have come to expect from a local independent stationer, who aims to ‘keep business local’.

Repxotics can supply all you require to keep an exotic reptile including heated tanks, lighting and ‘sets’, plus live and frozen food. Repxotics also offer a ‘boarding’ service for those who wish to leave their reptiles in care whilst on holiday. Tortoises, spiders and stick insects are also on sale.

Tropical fish are a recent addition to the shop and include Tetra, Gourami and Angel Fish

together with cold water fish including Fantails and Blackmoors.

Demetri has a wealth of knowledge and will be pleased to offer advice on reptile care. He gives talks on the subject to various groups and in the near future will offer visits to schools and birthday parties.

To find out more why not call in – open Monday to Saturday from 10.30am until 5pm.

For a wide range of

repxotics

Repxotics of Shepton Mallet is one of very few shops in the area to specialize in the sale and care of exotic reptiles and invertebrates. Owned and run by Demetri Benfield, the shop stocks reptiles such as Bearded Dragons, Corn Snakes, and the more unusual Frilled Dragons, all of which have been captive bred.

Mid-West

Reptiles, Tropical and cold Water Fish PLUS all accESSORiES and FEEdS

★ 10% OFF all Products & Livestock ... with this advert

BUy 5 SElEcTEd FiSH and GET OnE FREE! SEE InSTORE FOR DETAILS OF OThER OFFERS

Repxotics, 17 town street shePtoN mAllet BA4 5Be

telephone 01749 938082

The Stationers Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap Office Equipment and Furniture Printer Inks & Toners Competitive Prices FREE Local Delivery

10% OFF Craft Goods During September When mentioning The Visitor Stockists of Lamy, Waterman, Sheaffer and Parker Pens, Filofax & Collins Organisers

Everything you need for card making ... from coloured card through to embellishments to customise your creations at MidWest The Stationers, Sherborne.

Call at our shop ...

21 Cheap Street, Sherborne Tel: 01935 814225 or visit our website ...

www.midwest-office.co.uk

e’S MuSic K i M The Music Store in Town

GuitAr tuitiOn ... to suit all ages and levels Guitars & ukuleles

Entry Level Clarinets, Flutes, Violins & Accessories Sheet Music and Music Books etc.

the George centre, crewkerne tel: 01460 77728 • www.mikes-music.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2012 33

Hobbies ... yandles Woodworking Show

aUTUMn SHOW

WOOdWORkinG SHOW & SalE WiTH cRaFTS Friday 7 th September, 10am – 5pm Saturday 8 th September, 10am – 4pm WHy viSiT a yandlES SHOW ?  It is FREE both to enter and park  It has one of the largest numbers of woodworking related trade stands to be found at a UK woodworking show  It caters for both amateur and professional users  It offers the best selection of planks and blanks to be found at such events  There is a great line up of top demonstrators THE WOOdWORkinG & HOBBy SHOpS Will BE HOldinG a SalE  Arts and crafts demonstrations and sale to entertain non-woodworkers !!!  Craft gallery and refreshment marquee FREE EnTRy • FREE paRkinG aa SiGnpOSTEd “A fantastic day out at one of the truly great woodworking shows”

yandle & Sons ltd Hurst Works, Martock Somerset, TA12 6JU Tel: 01935 822207 online-info@yandles.co.uk If you are unable to visit the show, visit our website

www.yandles.co.uk to see 100s of our products at great prices 34 THE VISITOR September 2012

yandles Autumn Show is being held on the 7th and 8th of September and is now one of the longest running Woodworking Shows in the Country. It is the highlight of many a woodworkers calendar, attracting thousands of visitors from around the Country and Europe, many booking their annual holidays to coincide with it. part of its popularity is down to the fact that it is a very friendly, informal show, where visitors can catch up with old friends and meet up with new ones. It is also the natural home for a woodworking show – a traditional working sawmill whose history dates back to the 1860’s.

The whole site is transformed into a showground with marquees hosting an array of leading craftspeople, from Rachel Huggett, the chainsaw sculptor and Terry Heard with his traditional caravan making brooms and pegs as well as respected Woodturners and Carvers such as Mark Hancock, Steven Cooper and Martin Turner. Live demonstrations will keep visitors entertained with new techniques to learn, useful advice on tools and crafts and plenty of handy tips.

The Sawmill is converted in to a massive shopping area packed full of leading manufacturers such as Record power, Brimarc, Sorby and Mafell, all displaying and demonstrating the latest equipment and offering special deals. The show also has the best selection of planking and blanks to be found at any similar event in the uK all discounted during the two days.

The shows are one of the few remaining free events in the Country and not only do they have

some amazing demonstrations in wood working, carving and stick making to name a few, but also hobby demonstrations in paper craft, jewellery making etc., plus a 303 Gallery and a food marquee.

There is something for everyone to make it an enjoyable day out for family and friends which has free entry and parking and is held in a traditional working sawmill, something of a rare event these days.

For further information contact us on: 01935 822207, information sheets available.

Email online-info@yandles.co.uk or look at our website: www.yandles.co.uk.

Christine Jewels

Italian Language Services, based in yeovil, has been providing high quality language tuition for a number of years. Christine Jewels founded the business on the principle of providing tuition tailored to the needs of her students. A large part of her work consists of a range of small classes that can take students from zero knowledge to A level standard. Some students take examinations, but the majority just want to enjoy improving their knowledge of Italian. Christine also works for corporate clients providing translation and interpreting services as well as language tuition.

Should you be going on holiday, she also teaches a course, Holiday Italian, which provides the basic language skills to travel, eat and shop in Italy. There are also one day Workshops which provide an enjoyable taster or the opportunity for some revision.

Christine also provides one to one teaching at all levels to address particular language needs.

& Pastimes Wheathill golf Club

Wheathill Golf Club - something special for the autumn.

For many years it has been a perfect starting point for new and up and coming golfers to learn how to play golf in a relaxed and friendly environment.

‘Learn to play in a day’ group sessions start at 9.30am and include all the equipment, pGA tuition and coffee and bacon roll all for only £29.99, perfect for beginners and budding golfers.

These are available in September, October and November.

Not forgetting the golfers, two ‘£10 Golf Weeks’ are planned for September and October.

•Green Fees £10 a round everyday •All individual golf lessons half price only £10 (30 minutes) •Two meals for £10 in the clubhouse •10% off in the pro Shop on purchases over £20. Make great savings on powakaddy

Freeway £299, during Golf Week, only £269. Taylormade Rocketballz Driver £199, during Golf Week only £179. plus more savings in store! Go to www.wheathillgc.co.uk for more details or call 01963 240667.

Scenes

Scenes of Gillingham is a p re m i e re a rt sho p st o cki ng Derwent, Daler Rowney and Winsor & Newton artist paints and accessories.

There is a good choice of books to help you learn the art of painting and drawing in a variety of mediums - and once you have completed your work of art Scenes can also frame it for you!

Canvases, fairtrade paper and sketch pads are all stocked.

Why not make your own Cards? There is a comprehensive range of card making and craft materials in stock - alternatively there is an eclectic mix of greeting cards and postcards for sale.

If you enjoy sewing or knitting and a chat, pop along to Sherborne Tapestry Centre Stitching Club Wednesday 10.30am - 12.30pm and Knitting Club Wed 2pm - 4pm. Unlimited tea and biscuits £5 per person - just pop in. Currently knitting squares for The Refuge Charity.

Tapestry kits, embroidery and cross stitch kits.

Stockists: DMC, Anchor, Appletons.

Full stretching, making up and framing service.

Knitting Wools including: Debbie, Bliss, wendy and Robin.

Design commissions undertaken.

Postal services available.

1 Cheap Street, Sherborne Dorset Dt9 3Pt 01935 815361

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Where can you buy ... ★ balsa Wood

?

★ card Making Materials ★ Imitation Gold Leaf ★ artists Paints to paint your masterpiece and ... get it framed!

High Street, Gillingham Tel / Fax (01747) 824050 e.mail: scenesol@aol.com www.scenes-online.co.uk

Enhance your home with these handmade cushions. You will find all you need at Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts of Sturminster Newton including: materials galore, patterns, trims, buttons and cushion pads in various shapes and sizes.

THE VISITOR September 2012 35

Hobbies & Pastimes gifts with a difference

Get creative and make your own personalised presents for that special occasion. use your favourite photographs, pieces of fabric, buttons and brooches to create a gift that may become a family heirloom.

WoRKsHop

By Henry’s Buttons

Promoting Heritage Craft of dorset Buttons tuesday 11th september garden Room at gold Hill museum shaftesbury, 2pm – 4.30pm Cost: £15.00 (bring your own sewing equipment) For details / bookings Anna mcDowell – tel: 01747 829010 Email: henrysbuttons@aol.com or visit www.henrysbuttons.co.uk

Kate pickard, an experienced trainer and an enthusiastic quilter, will take a workshop to show how you can use your favourite buttons and fabrics to make a photograph album with a difference. The workshop is organised by Henry’s Buttons to help promote the Heritage Craft of Dorset Buttons. It takes place on Tuesday 11th September 2012 in the Garden Room at Gold Hill Museum, Shaftesbury, from 2.00 to 4.30pm. Cost: £15.00 (bring your own sewing equipment). For further details/ bookings contact Anna McDowell, telephone 01747 829010 or email: henrysbuttons @aol.com or visit: www.henrys buttons.co.uk

North Dorset & South Somerset

Premier Art ShoP

All the Materials you need for your Art Classes and Workshops Plenty of gift Sets to suit every budget We offer Vouchers from £10 or more Extensive Range of artist Materials for Professional, Hobbyist and Students Liquitex Stockist * Picture Framing greeting Cards * Craft Materials Serving the Community for 108 Years

12 Cheap Street, Sherborne

Pictured right: Enjoy the social, laidback game of Petanque (French Boules) or something a bit more strenuous such as rugby or football at Wincanton Sports Ground, Moor Lane, Wincanton.

tel: 01935 817100

Serving the Blackmore Vale & Beyond

MaddOckS paviliOn 01963 31815 • 07756 983598

Interested in sport for fun? Want to start a team?

Handball Monday Evenings on the Astroturf from aged 10 upwards

indoor Kurling Summer / Winter social games During day or some evenings

petanque FRee oF CHARGe (French Boules) Enjoy a social game and use the excellent facilities

Astro Football party 4pm after school or Saturdays and Sundays, Astroturf available and use of pavilion for party

Children’s parties All ages catered for Space for bouncy castles, Fun, games, book a clown / magician

Sew ‘n’ Sew

If you have ever wanted to learn how to sew, then a visit to Sew ‘n’ Sew in Shepton Mallet is a must.

Owned and run by Annette Moon, the shop sells curtain fabrics and linings, buttons and handmade crafts. They also offer a good choice of sewing classes either on a one-to-one basis or as a small workshop, starting from a basic two hour sewing lesson when pupils make a cushion, through to patchwork and other projects. Other skills such as knitting and crochet are also taught. Alternatively pupils can bring along their own projects or

Sew ‘n’ Sew

Rounders Social play or start a team for 2013 All available at reasonable rates. Facilities available for personal hire, for clubs, societies and commercial organisations.

please call 01963 31815 to find out more or email: enquiries@wincantonsportsground.co.uk moor Lane, Wincanton, somerset, BA9 9EJ ‘Wincanton Sports Ground - the community facility’

www.wincantonsportsground.co.uk

36 THE VISITOR September 2012

just hire a sewing machine for £7 per hour. Crafts parties for children are also available.

Annette undertakes commissions for curtains, alterations, loose-covers and her unique handbags.

The forthcoming class dates for Crochet Lessons are: 2nd October 1-4pm, Christmas Stocking and 6th November 1-4pm, Tree Decorations.

All 3 hour lessons are £35 inclusive of all materials (intermediate knowledge required). Beginners should book the 2 hour beginners lesson (£20).

Call in for details.

Sewing and Knitting Workshops Sale of handmade Crafts Fabrics – Buttons – Patchwork Squares Commissions undertaken for Curtains, Loose Covers, Alterations, etc.

■ Sewing, Crochet and Patchwork Lessons

■ ■ ■ ■

OPEn: 9.30am – 4.30pm, 6 DAyS A WEEK (Half day Wednesday)

21 high street, shePtoN mAllet, BA4 5AA tel: 07880 713293

Hobbies acorn Music

Acorn Music is an Independent Music Store stocking thousands of CDs, everything from rock, pop and jazz to classical, folk and blues.

For musicians there is a range of guitars and ukuleles plus a wide selection of accessories including drum sticks, strings,

straps, picks, leads, tuners, gig bags and music books.

If you have outgrown your own CD collection and are looking to make some space at home, Acorn Music purchase good quality CD collections and will arrange for collection.

For further information telephone 01935 425503.

Business robert Stone & Co, chartered accountants and tax advisers in Ilminster answers questions from small businesses in Somerset ...

Q1. Our company is owned jointly by myself and my wife, and we are both directors of the company. I do most of the work and draw a lot of funds out of the business, so my director's account with the company is often overdrawn.

My wife has another paid position, so doesn't draw so much from the company. Her director's account with the company is always in credit.

Can our two director's accounts be combined and set-off against each other for tax reporting requirements? robert Stone replies:

Married individuals are taxed as separate persons in the uK, and their income and liabilities cannot be amalgamated to present a better picture for tax purposes.

The Taxman is dead against the overdrawn balance on one person's account being set against the credit balance on another person's account, even if those two people are married.

Before and after ... your tapestries and needlework are given a professional finish when framed at Martock Gallery in Martock.

we FRAme

★ Passport Photos Available ★

• Tapestries • needlecraft • Paintings • Olympic Memorabilia • Sports Shirts and more

martock gallery open: monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, saturday 9.30 - 4.30

Water street • martock • tel: (01935) 823254 • www.martockgallery.com

acORn MUSic

yEovIL’S IndEpEndEnT MuSIc SToRE

Q2. My company is doing well and I'd like a new car, possibly a bMW series 5.

Should the company lease or buy this car, or does it make more sense for me to take a dividend from the company and to buy the car personally? robert Stone replies:

As the car is available to you for personal journeys you will be taxed on the benefit of driving that car, giving rise each year to a tax bill for yourself and a NI bill for your company at 13.8%.

The company will get a deduction against profits for the cost of leasing the car, but that deduction is limited if the car has

Music Books - Ukuleles Guitar Strings - picks - Straps leads - drumsticks

Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/acornmusic

3 Glovers Walk, yeovil

 01935 425503

Q3. I want to buy a new business, but the only way I can do that is to increase the mortgage on my house. Will the interest I pay on the extra mortgage be tax allowable for the business? robert Stone replies:

In principle yes, but there are restrictions to prevent improper use of this tax relief. Further restrictions are also proposed from 6 April 2013. Interest paid on loans used to buy into a partnership or to buy shares in a closely controlled company, or lend to such a company are generally tax allowable. However, it would be best to have a separate loan for this business investment, as when you repay any part of the mortgage, the business part will be deemed to be reduced first. you will also have to hold at least 5% of the ordinary shares of the company and work for it for the greater part of your time.

If you have a query contact Robert Stone on 01460 55661.

MAx FooTE Associates Ltd Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 26 Lower woodcock Street Castle Cary BA7 7BH Tel: 01963 351052

Still stocking the Widest Range of CDs for miles around alongside our ever changing selection of 2nd Hand Lps  Acorn Tokens make ideal gifts  CD and DVD Collections in good condition bought for CASH Collection Arranged

CO2 emissions over 160g/km (reducing to 135g/km from April 2013). Likewise the capital allowances are restricted for cars with CO2 emissions over 160g/km.

The company can pay for the car's insurance, servicing and repairs, with no further cost to you, the driver. However, if fuel is provided there is an additional benefit in kind to be taxed on you.

In reality the calculations need to take into account other factors such as the cost of insurance and whether you need to borrow money to buy the car. We need to talk about this in greater detail to provide you with the correct advice.

Car – HOME – COMMErCIaL

Call Livingstones now on

01935 706258

Your local insurance experts

Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service THE VISITOR September 2012 37

motoRing - At Your Service VINtagE Motor Cycling AS I WRITE THESE WORDS the summer weather continues to disappoint. Frequent showers with some interspersed sunshine continue to spoil classic vehicle events all over the country. Many have been cancelled or postponed as venues have been waterlogged.

This is frustrating for participants but even more so for the organisers as many hours of hard work go into putting on these events and much of this time and effort will be wasted.

One recent event to largely escape the weather was the Wessex Veteran and Vintage Sections Beaded Edge Run. Starting from Shillingstone Railway Station the 25 entrants set off in good sunshine, however during the 37 mile route a very heavy shower soon thoroughly soaked everyone and the roads thereafter were very wet and muddy. With a lunch stop back at Shillingstone a super day was had by all. The

SOMERSET SCRAP CARS SCRAP CARS VANS and 4x4s WANTED Same Day Collection CASH paid on collection and paperwork dealt with Call TOM on 07967 546014

event even became international as two entrants came from Holland. My picture this month shows Colin Bentham from Somerset riding his 1925 Triumph model p, he is seen passing the ford at Fifehead Neville.

Future events still come thick and fast. During September the Somerset Section has a magic lantern show at its club night on the 6th. On the 8th will be the Codgers and Dodgers Run from Watchfield. They have an Evening Meet on the 13th followed on the 16th by the West Somerset Run. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section has a Bring and Buy at its club night on the 10th and on the 30th there is a new event to be called the Old Sarum Run which as you may gather starts at the Old Sarum Airfield. The Dorset Section has its AGM on its club night on the 12th, followed on the 16th by the Last of the Summer Wine Run from Hinton-St-Mary, and on the 26th will be a Mid Week Run which starts at The Sportsman Centre at Warden Hill. There is still plenty to keep everyone engaged, ring 01935872528 for more details of any of these events.

I hate lists of statistics, specially as I know that statistics can be bent, twisted, and misread so that any fact can be proved or disproved at will. However sometimes a few facts are released which I find rather interesting and so I shall repeat a few here hoping you find them equally interesting. It is now calculated that there are over

riDgeWAy gArAge Family run business - established over 30 Years 58 Citroen Picasso 1.6, VTX, 25K ................................

57 Peugeot 307 1.4S, 3 Door, Black, Alloys, CD ...........

55 Citroen Picasso exclusive 2.0, HDI, Low Miles .......

Y Reg renault Clio 1.4 Alize, 1 Owner, Auto, Low Miles

£5,495 £3,995 £4,495 £1,995

Kingsland road, ShePTon mAlleT • Tel: 01749 342938 www.ridgeway-garage.com

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

01935 812720 Western Ways yard bristol road, SHErbOrNE, Dorset Dt9 4Hr 38 THE VISITOR September 2012

Colin Bentham poses at Fifehead Neville ford on his Triumph. No water in the ford but plenty of rain.

850,000 vehicles surviving which were made prior to 1981. The whole classic vehicle industry is worth £4.3 billion to the uK economy per year. Some 28,000 jobs rely on this industry and of those jobs some 79% are of full time employment. Most of our classic vehicles cover fewer than 500 miles per year. With this sort of support and clout you would think our power over future government legislation would be considerable, but not quite so as the total miles we cover is only 0.24% of all the miles covered in Britain each year. The various bodies which represent our pastime continue to need our help and support when any restrictive legislation comes forward. When called upon it is incumbent upon us all to give that support to protect our interests.

In the next few months there will be several autojumbles and old vehicle auctions which just might tickle your fancy. Keep an eye on your local press for details.

With a long winter ahead now is the time of year when many people turn their thoughts to another restoration project to occupy their hands and minds. A splendid idea of course and one which I would not wish to subdue, but perhaps a word of caution would be apt. The price of old vehicles is still climbing alarmingly and shows no sign of relenting. The asking prices might well be prohibitive for some. But when buying your next project, and before your hard earned cash is parted with, spare a thought for the cost of the restoration. Even poor quality and incomplete projects can cost a lot of money, so think of the costs involved. The price of parts and services will surprise you so double the estimate you first had and add it to the purchase price.

Then think of the year or two or more of your time and effort needed for the job and you might just think that the tidy and usable vehicle you first looked at may not seem quite so expensive after all. I appreciate the restoration costs can be spread over a period of time but at the end of the day they still have to be met. Also the restoration route might well be the preferred option as at the end of the project you should know exactly what you have. The choice is yours but things are not always as clear cut as they first appear. As I have mentioned before you must do your homework before taking the plunge.

Back to the weather again and I am getting fed up with getting wet through every time I venture out. All I seem to do is dry out wet riding gear and clean the bike.

It would be a real treat to go out and stay dry and clean for once. I will not be deterred though and will keep riding unless the weather goes to extremes. I normally write during the winter months about having good riding kit but this year it seems this advice is needed all year through.

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

g.H. SaLES. tel: 01935 891414

motoRing - At Your Service Having recently ridden to the seaside and witnessed riding gear I would not recommend at all my advice would seem superfluous.

To see youngsters riding scooters and motorcycles with soft shoes, shorts and tee shirts, makes my blood run cold. Even a low speed spill could cause severe abrasive injuries. To all the young people who do these things please take heed of the advice.

Rod Hann.

South Street body repairs

Is the oldest independent body repair shop in yeovil and has an excellent reputation for highquality repairs and fair business values.

It was founded by Dave Norris in 1993 and is now run by his wife and sons.

Conveniently situated in the centre of yeovil they offer a friendly and helpful service. They carry out restorations, crash repair work using a Car O Liner JIG and paint work using a low bake oven. If you have an insurance claim Mary can help and you can choose where your car is repaired. All repairs are carried out to a high standard by fully skilled staff. A courtesy car is available on request. please call or visit for a free no obligation quote.

yeovil auto tuning

Colin Frost started yeovil Auto Tuning with a partner over 27

Phillips Tyres, the garage in Castle Cary, renowned for its replacement tyre, battery and exhaust service.

years ago. Today it is a family run business with Colin, his wife Anita in reception and office, mechanic Jamie and apprentice Ross. This small friendly team offer general servicing, MOT’s and repairs, whilst specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans.

They are stockists of Winns specialist products.

Colin is pleased to announce that yeovil Auto Tuning will soon offer Revo Engine Mapping (VW & AuDI Group) which utilises the Revo Engine performance software to optimise engine performance.

For a professional service at competitive prices, visit yeovil Auto Tuning.

south street Body Repairs ltd.

Family business established in 1993

“ Where the car comes first” ■ ■ ■ ■

Crash Repairs MOT Welding Resprays highly Skilled Repairs

■ ■ ■ ■

Insurance Claims Restoration Projects Low Bake Oven Flatbed Recovery

One to One

If you are having problems with your car or just need a routine service, pop down to One to One motor services in Torbay Road, Castle Cary. Run by husband and wife team Jon and Marie - Jon has over 30 years experience and is ably assisted by qualified mechanic Richard who has been with them for 15 years. Exhausts and tyres can be supplied and fitted and

MOT’s undertaken. Number plates can be made and fitted.

Having a fully equipped workshop with diagnostic equipment - servicing is available for all makes and model of car. A courtesy car is available if required.

For a service you can rely on contact One to One of Castle Cary.

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am 5.30pm and Saturdays by appointment.

A family-run business

Servicing & Repairs to all makes Tyres - Exhausts - M.o.T.s number plates supplied and fitted Unit 3, Torbay Trading Estate castle cary, Somerset Ba7 7dT Tel: 01963 351540

ALL MAJoR CREDiT CARDS ACCEpTED

62 south street, yeovil, somerset BA20 1QQ telephone: 01935 411095 • Fax: 01935 473119 email: mary@southstreetbodyrepairs.co.uk www.southstreetbodyrepairs.co.uk

A company built on an excellent reputation

Yeovil Auto Tuning

• • • • • • •

established 30 Years 1982 – 2012

Repairs and Servicing Specialists MOT Testing • Engine Tuning Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes Competitive Rates Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW & Audi Group)

Alexandra Road, Yeovil Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

centre Garage, castle cary  01963 350243 Specialists in ...

TYRES ✽ BATTERIES ✽ WHEELS ✽ EXHAUSTS Laser Wheel Alignment (Tracking) Computerised Wheel Balance Petrol & Diesel Available OPEnInG hOURS Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am – 2.00pm Emergency 24 hour call out available Mobile 07966 221834 THE VISITOR September 2012 39

House & Home ACF WindoWs Andy FelthAm UPVC RePlaCement windows, dooRs, ConseRVatoRies, wooden FRamed windows, FasCia BoaRds, Cladding, gUtteRing, alUminiUm windows & dooRs etC.

The Swallows, Shepherds Hill Buckhorn Weston GillinGHam, Dorset SP8 5HX tel / Fax: 01963 371715 mobile: 07802 393344

Be prepared!

As sure As night follows day winter follows autumn, and as september approaches and the nights draw in, a chill creeps into the evenings and mornings.

With our unpredictable British weather, now is the time to get ready for the winter months.

Central heating boilers should be serviced, chimneys should be swept, oil tanks checked and filled and if you have an open fire, fuel ordered and bunkers filled - there are usually special deals to take advantage of before autumn arrives.

If your windows are single glazed, perhaps now is the time to

HIDER HEATING

Specialists in Installation & Service All Types of plumbing Central Heating Systems, Boiler Replacement Landlord Safety Checks and Servicing Gas and Oil established over 40 years Rely on us for all Plumbing & Heating Needs Specialist in Bathroom Designs including all Tiling & Electrics

Reg. No. 700

www.hiderheating.co.uk Tel: 01935 426209 • Mobile: 07836 773152 11 Hillgrove Avenue, Yeovil, Somerset

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE Visit our newly refurbished showrooms for inspirational ideas ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Over 200 stoves / fires on display Working models Traditional and contemporary Full installation service ... new and refurbished New dedicated fireplace showroom Hearth and home accessories Chimney sweeping

Tea Shop & Interiors Serving breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea - do call in Tel: 01458 253357 www.livingpretty.co.uk

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport Tel: 01458 251476 OPEN 6 DAYS

www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk 40 THe VIsITOr september 2012

A WEEK

You can now protect your tank from oil theft. Contact Wessex Fire & Security on 01747 852258 for more information.

Bryan G. Paully Ltd

Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements Suppliers of Tanks, Fuel Stations, Temporary Tanks • Free Site Survey / Quote / Advice Registered Waste Hauliers • All Tank Manufacturers Approved Installer • 24 Hour Call-Out

Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 • Fax: 01963 362785 office@halletsfarm.fsnet.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk

House & Home seriously think about double glazing.

Be prepared and you won’t be caught out when the first cold snap arrives!

New Device to Stop Oil Theft

The price of fuel has risen by 70% in recent months and criminals are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to target isolated homes to steal their supply of oil from domestic tanks.

More than 1.5 million homes across the uK, mostly in rural areas like the Blackmore Vale, are dependent on heating oil.

Coupled with the increase in oil prices and the isolated nature of homes, this has made them an easy target for the more unsavoury members of society.

According to a recent survey by rural insurance company, NFu Mutual, domestic oil is now the third most common item stolen from the countryside, sitting behind tools and quad bikes, up from sixth in a similar survey just 12 months previously.

After several months of research and development, Wessex Fire and security who are part of the Wessex Group of companies based in North Dorset, are delighted to have developed a new Oil Tank Alarm that is specifically designed to combat this rising trend in the theft of oil.

Wessex Fire and security Director, Chris stott, commented; ‘This new alarm is designed to detect rapid fuel level decreases and monitors the tank for tampering. The device can be used as a stand-alone system or can be connected directly into a customer’s existing security system.

The device is relatively low cost and protecting against the current high threat of theft and the excess payment to an insurance company, we expect this product will be in high demand.’

New Scheme Available to Help Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Home

A new project has been launched aimed at giving south somerset residents the chance to become

RE-UPHOLSTERY

Wide range of materials For all your re-upholstery requirements contact

dAvid J. diment Upholsterers CAstle CAry (01963) 351194 Units 1 & 2 torbay Road industrial estate Castle Cary, somerset Ba7 7dw

At Sturminster Newton

THe VIsITOr september 2012 41

House & Home energy efficiency trailblazers.

The council-backed South Somerset Home Energy project offers householders the chance to improve their homes by making them more energy efficient and lowering their bills.

It gives owner occupiers of a solid-walled property the opportunity to install internal or external solid-wall insulation at no up-front cost.

Mike McClelland looks after the new project at the Centre for sustainable energy (Cse), a Bristol-based charity and says ‘solid-walled homes are particularly poor at retaining heat which means high fuel bills – and we know there are a high number of these properties across south somerset.

‘With fuel bills on the rise generally anyway, this is a fantastic opportunity for those people who live in these types of properties. South Somerset Home Energy will help people to improve their home, cut their fuel bills and make themselves much, much warmer.’

The project offers a free survey by a qualified domestic energy assessor who will provide something called an energy Performance Certificate (ePC), which will basically determine what measures are needed for the

Cary Tiles Ltd

A place for everything and everything in its place - drawers come in all depths and sizes in today’s modern kitchens as it’s easy to spot what you are looking for.

property. Grant funding from scottish and southern energy will then be available to carry out the improvements.

For those people who are interested in improving their home with solid wall insulation, a ‘pay-as-you-save’ finance scheme

Spoilt for Choice Over 300 sample Boards Floor and Wall Tiles

Cary Tiles Ltd, Unit 6 Torbay Industrial Estate Torbay Road, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7DW Tel: 01963 359388 Open Monday to Friday 9am - 2pm saturdays 9am - 1pm After hours by appointment only

Free Quotation and Measuring service Professional Fitting service available

will be available. This means that repayments are linked to the expected fuel bill savings resulting from having solid wall insulation installed. so for example, if the ePC anticipates fuel bill savings to be £30 per month then repayments would not exceed this amount – meaning residents wouldn’t have to pay a penny up-front.

If anyone is interested in finding out more about South

KEvAN DAvIs Plumbing & Heating Ltd

Free Local Delivery Commercial & Domestic Work Undertaken

COCK & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS Established Since1957

 specialists in renovation and restoration of older properties

Somerset Home Energy, they should contact the Home energy Team at Cse free on 0800 082 2234 or email home.energy @cse.org.uk.

Trained energy advisors will then talk people through the project, look at the options available for their home and send them a copy of the South Somerset Home Energy brochure for more details. This contains everything people need to know

Reg. No. 177361

4 Fairview Terrace, Castle Cary Telephone: 07976 741029

Cooking up fresh ideas in kitchen design

 extensions and alterations undertaken

“For kitchens as individual as you are”

 specialists in barn conversions

Quality kitchens - competitively priced

 purpose built joinery, doors, windows, etc.

All Work Guaranteed

tel: north CAdBUry (01963) 440931 Yard Office adj. Orchard Leigh, Long Street Galhampton, Yeovil, Somerset

42 THe VIsITOr september 2012

To discuss your requirements call Adam

01935 849559

or visit our showroom AP Kitchen Solutions, Northover, Roman Road ILCHESTER BA22 8LD www.apkitchens.co.uk

House & Home about the grant, the measures and where to find approved installers.

Funded by scottish and southern energy the project is managed by Cse and designed with the Government’s forthcoming Green Deal in mind.

Kitchen Storage

When buying a new kitchen, it’s easy to overlook storage elements and focus your attention on design, layout and colour. storage is one of the main functions of your kitchen so it’s vital to consider the space available, not only for foodstuff but also for utensils, tableware, appliances and cleaning products.

The simplest way to create a clutter-free kitchen is to begin by making a detailed list of the contents in your current kitchen cupboards. It might sound like a tedious task but it will help your designer find the best storage solutions for you, making life much easier in the long run!

Whether you’re a hoarder or a minimalist, the phrase ‘a place for everything and everything in its place’ should become your mantra when planning a kitchen.

A popular theme at the moment is to incorporate cabinets of different heights. This adds drama, depth and convenient storage to the working triangle, the busiest area of a kitchen between the oven, fridge and sink.

If you have small children in your kitchen often, speak to your designer about extra-high storage for items that you want to keep out of reach, such as sharp cutlery, glasses and even treats!

Kitchen larders can be inexpensive and act as a more cost-effective option than running a large fridge. A tall larder with pullout shelving will give you easy access and a clear view of all your contents.

If you’d like a more sociable kitchen, the installation of an

• All types of Blinds supplied domestic & Commercial • excellent prices first time, no gimmicks • Conservatory roof specialists intU and PeRFeCt Fit Blinds - ideal for conservatories, glazed doors, tilt ‘n’ turn windows. no holes, no screws, just style • internal shutters and external Awnings

All Visitor area covered

01749 346658

For the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of ...

■ we offer a bespoke kitchen service ■ Contemporary or traditional ■ Painted ... gloss, the finish of your choice

■ worktops supplied ... including granite

Easy access - bottles in a drawer.

RepaiR SeRvice ★ all makes of tV repaired ★ on the premises workshop

★ loan tV whilst being repaired

★ estimates ★ Bench or field service Full Range oF panaSonic TvS in STock FoR Sale ... do call in

H.R. Hodge

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 1pm

38 st. James street south Petherton TA13 5BW  01460 240645

■ ‘luce’ kitchen appliances only available from registered dealers

oFFER ExTENDED ... due to demand SPEND over £3000 and RECEIVE TAPS to the VALUE of £300 Extended until 30th September

QuAlITy KITCHENs - CoMPETITIvE PRICEs

Our complete service includes - supply & installation - carpentry - plumbing electrics - plastering - small extensions - patios - staircases - and more

Find our showrooms ...

Half Moon street sherborne (Through Archway by Half Moon Inn)

Tel: 01935 817111 • Fax: 01935 817119 THe VIsITOr september 2012 43

House & Home JW TILING & BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS Professional & Fully Qualified Tiling Service • Stone • Ceramic • Porcelain • Wet Rooms • Under Floor Heating

Complete Bathroom Installations • Supply • Electrics • Carpentry • Plastering • Plumbing

ExCEllEnT RESUlTS aT vERy ComPETITIvE PRICES!

Call James: Daytime 07976 372909 Evening 01963 359630

island provides seating as well as storage. People often have the misconception that kitchen islands are only achievable for larger or open plan kitchens, but peninsulas can work well in small kitchens and are a great storage solution, adding style and texture.

Consider drawers instead of large, deep cupboards, especially under the sink. This doesn’t just increase storage but improves the linear flow of the room to give

Add STYLE to your home Stripes, spots, patterned or plain ... we have a carpet to suit you and your budget!

Carpets from £6 per square metre Natural Flooring ★ Vinyls Floor Tiles ★ Wood ★ Laminates FOr All YOur FlOOriNg rEquirEmENtS

the illusion of more space in a kitchen.

You may not be aware of all storage solutions available. The traditional half carousel is popular because it swings out in a semi circle and improves access to those items stored at the back of the cupboard, but you still have to bend down to gain full access and some space is sacrificed. A ‘magic corner’ works in a similar way to a carousel but utilises square trays to make full use of the angled cupboard space inside.

The most impressive option is the Le Mans corner; a kidney shaped carousel with up to four shelves, providing plenty of storage space.

There is a vast array of storage options to keep kitchen utensils, appliances and food organised and tidy. Be clear about your specific needs with your kitchen designer. It is their job to ensure that the room functions well, matches your requirements and looks good.

Richard Fox, In-toto Kitchens, Yeovil.

Local Business Up for Three National Awards

SJH Carpets, Tythings Commercial Centre, Wincanton  01963 824418 Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 1pm Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178 (closed Wednesday)

Wincanton

House & Home is a regular feature in The Visitor ...

Harts of stur, the family-run business based in sturminster Newton, has been nominated for three national awards in the 2012 Excellence in Housewares Awards – the ‘Oscars’ of the housewares industry. Presented by Progressive Housewares and in association with The Cookshop & Housewares Association, the

FrEE

Curtain Making

... On ALL

“Style” Designs

When priory lined with 3” pencil pleat heading tape

01935 472100

3A & 4 higher preston Farm, preston road yeovil, BA20 2et (Just down from ASDA) www.kitchen-updates.co.uk town Centre

Kitchens & Updates Zoe’s Hair

mudford

town Centre houndstone

ASDA

preston road ilchester

44 THe VIsITOr september 2012

retail park

Beat the Christmas rush and order now!

19 High West St. Dorchester, DT1 1UW Tel: 01305 250990 22 Christchurch St. West, Frome, BA11 1EE Tel: 01373 465678 stevebanefabrics.com

House & Home at very competitive prices. The shop, located on station road is open from 8am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 4.30pm on saturday (closed sundays and Bank Holidays).

Alternatively browse online at www. hartsofstur.com

Sporting Legend visits Needful Things

Having heard about Needful Things expansion and how

impressive the new store is, former International rugby Player and Captain of england Bill Beaumont, visited the new showrooms in Castle Cary recently.

He spent an hour chatting to owners and staff and said of the expansion ‘What great use of space and how friendly the atmosphere is when you enter the shop. It's a great combination of relaxed welcome and professional

designed with you in mind ... we offer a bespoke chair, sofa bed and sofa service Choose your own style of furniture & fabric

Carpets – Curtains – Persian Rugs

Sporting legend Bill Beaumont visits Needful Things in Castle Cary.

Owner Ally Lawrence, left, is pictured with Bill on the steps of the new shop and on the right is Angela Hutchings, curtain maker.

high street, Castle Cary, BA7 7AN  01963 351352 www.needfulthings.uk.com

Visit ouR exteNsiVe New showRooms

awards shine the spotlight on both retailers for their retailing excellence as well as suppliers for their product innovation and service acumen.

Harts of stur have been nominated in the Retail Employee Of The Year (David Conduit buyer), Excellence In Retail Display (Independent) and Excellence in Direct Retailing categories. They will be up against some big names including Achica, Amazon, Lakeland and Littlewoods. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Wednesday 3rd October at The Lancaster in London.

Harts of stur are one of the uK’s largest in-store and on-line retailers of cookware, kitchenware and kitchen electrics, stocking a comprehensive range

3a Church Street, Wincanton Professionally Made To Measure Curtains, Blinds etc.

Supply your own Fabric or choose from a ...

Superb Range of Fabric Books including Prestigious Textiles, Fibre Naturelle, Biggie Best & more!

Curtain Poles & Tracks - Haberdashery Ribbons, Threads, Cushions, Remnants, Linings etc.

OPEN: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9.30am - 4.00pm Thursday - Closed Friday 9.30am - 3.00pm Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm

Melody 07883 089 333

... 29,000 copies monthly in your area!

Poor reception? Aerial problems?

GIvE us A RING Our engineer covers your area!

CAsTlE CARy - WINCANToN - GIllINGHAM - sHERBoRNE - sHAFTEsBuRy ETC.

visit our Panasonic Television showroom Confederation of Aerial Industries Membership Number C1361 • Trained Engineers Safety at Heights Certificate • C.R.B. Checked Staff • Full Public Liability Insurance • 12 Month Warranty

Panasonic ideas for life

All Major Cards Accepted

Units 10 & 11 Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, SP8 4PX 01747 826714 / 01747 826721 • tctv@gillingham.fsbusiness.co.uk THe VIsITOr september 2012 45

House & Home knowledge and advice.’

Bill heard about the expansion from colleagues at Bill Beaumont Textiles in Yorkshire, who supply Needful Things with fabric and tub chairs.

Make the Most of your Carpet!

When you have a new carpet fitted all too often there are offcuts left over – why not have them whipped and turned into

stock Rolls & Remnants

a useful rug? These are then ideal particularly for hardwearing areas such as just inside the front door, or as a fireside rug.

If you have had the stairs carpeted – a matching runner for the hall brings the whole interior together. D r Carpets of evercreech Junction offer this whipping service - together with a complete range of carpets and flooring. Call in today.

STYLETILE

stoCked

● Carpets and Flooring to suit all budgets ● Domestic & Commercial ● Vinyls and Laminates ● Solid & Engineered Wood ● Safety Floor Specialists ● Mattresses and 3-Piece Suites

Wall & Floor Tiles uuu

A Superb Choice u u u

‘Ideal’ standard Bathrooms showers and saunas supplied & Fitted All Types of building and Renovation Work undertaken

Free Estimates - Professional Fitting Available OPEN MONDAy - FRiDAy 9am - 4.30pm, and SATuRDAy 10am - 2pm

showrooms, Evercreech Junction shepton Mallet BA4 6NA on the main A371 between Shepton Mallet and Castle Cary

Tel 01749 831578

Tel/Fax 01749 831666

GARDENING GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park

Moving on ...

GArDeNers Are OFTeN very patient folk, well tempered, thoughtful and quietly spoken, gaining their life balance from what they do, or at least most of us would like to think we are! But if nothing else we are driven, constantly moving on in tune with the seasons. We have no choice.

That's the way it is.

Moving on helps you to leave some of the more unpalatable and disagreeable stuff well behind you and this has surely been one of the more difficult and challenging summers with more than its share of difficult and challenging bits. so, moving on from the blight stricken potatoes (actually lifted a reasonable crop) failed sowings of peas and carrots, and mentally redesigning the loyal red white and blue bedding schemes and multi-coloured Olympic pots, now looking forward to some great late

summer flowering plants and the prospect of beautiful autumn colours not to mention the vague possibility of actually, eventually, being able to pick a few runner beans.

The autumn has always been the favourite time to plant hardy plants; the soil is moist and warm and so receptive to new plant roots.

They can make a start and get established before the winter with the net result that next spring growth is much stronger and easier to maintain. We get so used to planting all the year round and there is nothing wrong with planting a rose in full flower but just because the days get shorter we shouldn't ignore the benefits of autumn planting. A campaign is underway to help new as well as experienced gardeners to 'plan it and plant it this autumn'. It is an easy concept that pays dividends!

From spring bulbs schemes,

for all your tool Hire requirements including mini Digger Hire and garden machinery Higher Farm, sutton, ditcheat tel: 01749 860199 • mob: 0777 163 2221

A

CuT

above the rest!

LAW N MOWERS sAles - serviCe - repAir

Ride-On - Pedestrian - Mulching and Collecting New & Used Machines Available

unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave shePtoN mAllet, BA4 4NB tel: 01749 343881 46 THe VIsITOr september 2012

GARDENING herbaceous borders to new shrub berries, orchards and even plantations. Autumn, full of great prospects!

Plant of the Month

Asters - Perennial Asters are real september beauties. They can be planted almost anytime of the year but inevitably you will notice them more in the garden centre when they are actually in flower. Local soils range from sandy acid, to heavy alkaline clay and shallow chalk. Any of them can be improved with some good organic matter to grow this collection of autumn beauties. Asters [Michaelmas Daisies – because they flower at Michaelmas naturally which is at the end of

september and generally taken as the beginning of Autumn] include a large range of hybrids and it is worth checking labels to see that you have what you want in terms of height and colour. The other factor with Asters is that they can be prone to disease, especially if they are growing in poor conditions and getting stressed. Aster novaeangliae, the Newengland Asters are generally taller and may need staking but produce lots of flowers that are very suitable for cutting.

The Aster novi-belgii are usually shorter and have tough woody stems to keep them upright.

Generally the species asters such as A. laterifolius and A. amellus are less prone to infection and are worthy garden plants.

Approved contractor to dorset & somerset C.C.

Aster x fikartii ‘Monch’ is traditionally lavender blue. With a flowering period from midsummer through to late autumn and actually continues on until the first hard frost. This cultivar does not need staking, is mildew

resistant and very free flowering; a very useful attribute.

Michaelmas daisies offer many colours, and habits of growth and can be grown in combination with many other herbaceous plants that flower later in the season. Achillea

All types of Fencing • Gates • Trellis • Fence Panels • Tool Sheds • Summer Houses • Garages • Workhouses • Greenhouses • Field Shelters All Buildings are hand-made at Bourton using Scandinavian Redwood Shiplap Timber.

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

Telephone 01747 840752 QUAliFied ArBorist

Fine Quality Made To Measure

tree plAntinG

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

General Welding & Repairs

Enquiries: 01935 864444 Unit 5, East Coker Saw Mills East Coker, BA22 9JJ

All AspeCts oF tree CAre And dAnGeroUs tree removAl

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

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

GaRDen MaCHIneRY

shaftesbury

01747 851021 GaRDen and aTV PoweR sAlEs, sERvICE & sPAREs ● mowers ● garden machinery ● garden tools ● atVs 17d Wincombe Business Park shAFtesBuRY sP7 9QJ

www.benjohnsonmowers.com

THe VIsITOr september 2012 47

millefolium and echinacea purpurea look good with these daisies and add variety to any border.

It is an easy plant for the beginner to try. All Asters need protection in spring from slugs and

snails. slug pellets are recommended to protect the emerging shoots in spring.

And a couple more ideas with sedums and Japanese Anemones all in full song. All are easy to grow and have a good long flowering

Yeovil Carpentry & Fencing Services All your home and garden maintenance needs FREE QUOTE – FREE SMILE

Tel: 07401 506500 or 01935 477028 Now available 5 tOnne lOAD DeliveRieS by small lorry

NEW

nOW is the time to perk up your paths and dress up your driveways!

We can deliver to your area inc. Castle Cary, Bruton, sherborne, Wincanton etc.

For advice or information ring Tim or Heidi or call in and see us

48 THe VIsITOr september 2012

GARDENING season. sedums with their thick waxy leaves are very tolerant of dry conditions and many have lovely late summer flowers that especially attract the late feeding

bees. Japanese Anemones, with their flowers held in above the foliage will do well in sun or part shade providing the soil is reasonable.

Podimore Recycling Ltd Suppliers of Quality Recycled Aggregates

ToP soIl / suB soIl Crushed Concrete all types of stone • sand • tarmac Road Plannings and screened top soil small tip for Clean Building Rubble & Bricks small & large Quantities Collected or delivered site Clearance specialist • tipping Facilities tipper lorries • 180° - 360° excavators Fully mobile Crusher and screener Hire Barns Down • Farm Yard Demolition Yards Crushed • Stone Supplied DIGGER AND CRusHER HIRE AvAIlABlE Tel / Fax: 01935 849250 Mobile: 07973 844145

ReCyCling FoR tHe enViRonment

GARDENING For ornamental grass companions look out for these: Pennisetum villosum (Feathertop) is a compact flowering grass (height and spread 60cm). In late summer it produces gorgeous seed heads, covered in delicate bristles.

Chinese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Fontane’) produces lovely sprays of light brown seed heads in summer.

Carex flagellifera, with its arching, evergreen leaves is perfect for container growing.

Flowerheads are brown and form at the end long stalks which will trail down over the edge of a pot.

Jobs for the Month

september is the full harvest month with the prospect of storing surplus produce for the winter. There are always good years and bad ones, with different plants performing better than others. Apples and pears should be coming on well but after two largely good years, many are having a rest this year; it is the well known biennial effect compounded by the damaging later frosts that took out the blossom in several areas. plums were really badly affected and there will be few english plums this year. My favourite

damson tree is practically bare but it will come back next year I'm sure. When you pick remove any diseased fruit complete with the leaves to prevent further spread over winter. Diseased material should not go on the compost heap, burning is best and I feel that the benefits of removing diseased material from productive plants out weighs the environmental problems of burning. But that’s just my view. runner beans will keep cropping if they are picked over regularly. A lot of us have only just started picking as the crop has been held back by the low light levels. same goes for courgettes, and they should be relieved of any sick mildewed leaves to give fruit the chance

to develop.

Tomatoes seem to have taken a long while to ripen this year and now we are looking at a glut!

Late sown salads crops should be alright for a while, but brassicas will need attention to prevent damage from caterpillars,

aphids bank voles and pigeons; close-woven netting covers are ideal. Why do so many things like brassicas when children don’t?

Main crop potatoes should be lifted and stored dry and frost free to prevent any late slug or wire worm damage. Go over the

Alan Dodge BSc

CREAM TEA WEEKEND

Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th 2pm – 4pm

OPEN DAY BANK HOLIDAY

Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4RE

Monday 27th August Cream Teas 2pm – 4pm Children’s Workshops throughout the day ... animal handling and much more

Turn into Broad Robin off B3081, continue past Mellowes Residential Home: Thorngrove is next on right

 01747 822242 Email: thorngrove.staff@scope.org.uk

end oF SeaSon Sale noW on

selected shrubs, Conifers & Herbaceous Plants at greatly reduced prices!

AuTuMN BEDDING – HANGING BAsKETs etc. NoW IN ★ Please call for details of our forthcoming workshops ★

Suppliers of quality lawn turf Full ground preparation and laying service available Telephone Somerton 01458 272091 Mobile 07850 310998

Thorngrove Garden Centre was set up by sCoPE, a national disability charity, whose vision is a world where disabled people have the same opportunities to fulfil their life ambitions as non-disabled people. By purchasing goods and services from thorngrove you are supporting scope's work in our local community. thank you. open: Monday – saturday 9 – 5, sunday 10 – 4

Oak Barrels

Tidy up your garden

40 gallon ✳ Fresh & empty Ideal Water Butts also ½ Barrels - Ideal Planters

07786 707262 07932 657140

agents

trEE SurgErY SPEciAliStS Crown Thinning and Reduction Dead and Dangerous Trees Removed New Trees Supplied and Planted Tree Stumps Removed Approved Contractor to Somerset County Council and Local Councils Phone B. P. MONTGOMERY for a FREE Estimate Tel: 01963 240532 Mobile: 07970 397248 Email: brutontreecare@hotmail.com

for Garden Care Atco stihl Hayter

 Blowers from only ... £ 99  Hedgetrimmers from only ... £ 160  Chainsaws from only ... £ 165 Big or small project - we have the right tool for the job! Call ...

LEE HOLMES

INDEPENDENT GARDEN MACHINERy sPECIAlIsT 15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, Somerton • Tel: 01458 274261 Email: leeholmes@deerepark.fsnet.co.uk • www.independentgardenmachinery.co.uk

THe VIsITOr september 2012 49

crop before bagging them up as a rotten potato will affect others. same with onions and there are few things that smell worse than a rotting onion.

If you are thinking of planting overwintering onion sets and garlic the ground should be prepared now.

The other useful task is sorting

GARDENING out the herbaceous plants – these do get overgrown and september is the ideal month to lift split and replant. That also allows you to pull out any perennial weeds that

now taking bookings for your autumn “Tidy-up” ... phone for a quote landscaping - turfing - Fencing mowing - Garden Clearance etc.

Also

Also at

The market Garden, High Street, WincanTon

noW At

The market Garden, Hart House Fore Street, caSTle cary Tel: 01963 350650

Fresh Fruit & Veg, Floristry service, gardening gifts and sundries  SPRiNg BUlBS & WiNTER BEDDiNg NOW iN 

tel: 01963 31226 • mobile: 07738 524254

the end bit...

Paperchase

IN LAsT MONTH’s column I reported that the weather forecast printed in the 6th July issue of the Western Daily Press was identical to the one in the previous day’s paper as nobody had bothered to replace it with the up-to-date forecast. As well as the forecasts the weather page contains a variety of maps and tables and a feature entitled ‘Weather Watch’, and the one in the 7th August issue told of a Newcastle taxi driver confronted by an urban staircase transformed into a cascading waterfall when the heavens opened. reportedly he saw raindrops the size of 2p pieces leave roads under water and homes flooded. such are the slap-happy production processes at this newspaper, you will not be surprised to learn that ‘Weather Watch’ in the 8th August issue told the same story, word-for-word identical.

Again nobody had bothered to replace it with new copy.

For an example of resurrecting old copy to fill a bit of space, how about this from 50 THe VIsITOr september 2012

page 24 of the Western Gazette property supplement on 26th July? A half-page feature titled ‘5 things to know before installing solar panels’ endeavoured to answer such questions as ‘Is your property suitable for the installation?’, ‘Do you need planning permission?’ and ‘What is the difference between solar thermal and solar photovoltaic panels?’ It was the fourth question that raised my doubts – ‘How much do solar panels cost and what grants or ways of making money are available?’

– because although a lot of figures were quoted there was precious little on feed-in tariffs.

Then came this sentence: ‘The government’s renewable Heat Incentive is expected to come into force during 2011’ and ‘the details are not yet available’. seven months into 2012 and nobody bothered to read and update the copy before going to print.

Solution to August

sudoku

have established themselves amongst your plants.

A final thought, we take a lot out of our soils so mustn’t be mean in returning goodness to

help the next crop. Green manures to dig in this winter or next spring are good, even better well rotted manure, mushroom compost, spent hops and of course the contents of your own, carefully organised, well tended compost heap! [Don’t tell me you haven’t got one! No excuse these days.]

QuAlITy FENCING PANEls AND TIMBER CLANVILLE SAWMILLS LTD Clanville • Castle Cary (on the B3153) Monday to Thursday - 8am to 5pm Friday - 8am to 4pm

Castle Cary (01963) 350881 A couple of years ago when the Western Daily Press was given a design facelift, editor Tim Dixon announced that ‘we will give you more opportunities to have your say, share your pictures and be at the centre of debate in the region’. At the time I wrote that ‘on the evidence of the first week’s issues this simply means more space for the same small group of inveterate (and usually tedious) correspondents to air their predictable views’. It seems that I’m not the only

person to hold this opinion. A letter in the 2nd August issue complained that ‘writing to letters columns in newspapers is a very addictive pastime for some people. Writers such as Mr readman of Bournemouth and Mr Heathcliffe of swindon started with a stream of letters which gradually became a flood and now it’s a veritable torrent.’

And in the 9th August issue someone else wrote that ‘if Great Britain was to win as many gold medals as you have published letters by robert

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.

Westland Zoo

HOLIDAY TIMe is here folks, and the sleek Gazelle went to the scilly Isles ... need I say more?

In line with her usual prudence, she placed a plastic rose on Harold Wilson’s grave along with 20 embassy. On her return it was said helicopter flights were cancelled. Can we blame her?

Mad Mike went camping in the woods and got lost on his way to the Zoo. He was bitten by a snake, but we’re glad to say he is now OK and back to work - but the snake died.

On his promotion the shy Panda was given a new parking space.

After trying it out for the first time and encountering a few problems, the space was declared too small.

However, the Giraffe had his own thoughts on the matter.

The four cavaliers from the union set off to Bristol last month (minus richie, the famous tomato sauce phantom, who has retired after 40 years of hard toil in the Zoo’s sugar Mines). The four consist of Des the Deer, Den the Dragon, Terry the Turtle and driver Joe, the Koala Bear. It was a dry, sunny day when they set off but after reaching their favourite watering hole the heavens opened causing flash flooding. ‘I hope you shut the sun roof’ said Joe. It wasn’t shut and the Turtle had to swim inside and remove the drain plug. It didn’t take long to dry out - two puffs from the Dragon and they were on the road again.

Mike the Giant Walrus has also retired and taken up hang gliding. He was last seen in the Water Buffalo’s compound on the Ilchester straight.

And ... Charlie the Coot has finally retired - he needed a wheelbarrow to carry out all his cash. All the very best goes to richie, Mike and Charlie for a long and happy retirement.

Woody Woodpecker.

Answers to pop music quiz on page 30 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

‘Empty’ ‘Stairway to Heaven’ ‘Crickets’ ‘The Who’ Al Stewart Jim Reeves ‘Creedance Clearwater Revival’ ‘yellow Submarine’ ‘Goodbye yellow Brick Road’ ‘The Eagles’

serious Double Anorak bonus Question – Marianne extra bonus Question $16000

Classified Ads Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG 25p per word (£3 minimum) - pre-payment essential If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment



readman of Bournemouth in the past month, I will be very pleased. I have counted 24 in a month. Is this a record?’

Not surprisingly, Mr Heathcliffe responded. In the 13th August issue he wrote that ‘of the 26 editions of the Western Daily Press published during July, I only had letters in 14 of them while other regular contributors had a similar number or even more’. Mr readman, who had not one but two letters printed in the 31st July issue, hasn’t bitten the bait yet. sadly the number of very frequent correspondents is growing alarmingly. Names like Helen Capel of Winscombe, shaun shute of Gloucester, Graham Forsyth of Chard, Mrs A essex of Henleaze and Helen Weeks of West Coker repeat their predictable views week in and week out, as do oddballs like robert Craig of All The south Party (is he the only member?) and T r spratt of Zeaxysch Zbrache Bord (the saxonish Language Academy).

Tedious is an understatement.

However, one recent letter amused me unintentionally. In the 30th July issue a correspondent from Nailsea heaped praise on Bradley Wiggins for his success in the Tour de France and added that ‘we are now very fortunate to have Bradley peddling for Team GB at the Olympic Games’. selling what, I wonder.

Peddling is what pedlars do; cyclists pedal (even in Nailsea). some months ago I quoted Harold evans’s requirements for good headlines in the paper he was editing – accuracy, intelligibility and vigour. recently I spotted this one (see below) amidst the Olympic coverage on 10th August in the Western Daily Press. It certainly meets the evans criteria; shame it has no relevance whatsoever to the story it is supposed to be highlighting.

Chronicler.

NAMe ........................................................................................................................................................................

ADDress .................................................................................................................................................................

Tel: ............................................................................. Cheque enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £3

mobile Homes

MOBILE HOMES

From £1000 • Large choice of sizes

Wanted RedUndant motoR moweRs, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. tel: 01460 77844. daVe BUys all tyPes oF tools, useable / collectable. sheds & workshops cleared. tel: 01935 428975.

delivery ArrAnGed Big Sales Site Open 7 Days • 2 miles west of Shaftesbury

Blackmore Vale Leisure Tel: 01747 851497 www.bmvcaravans.co.uk

mobile Bars / catering HaRRy’s moBile BaRs, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk QUiCKsilVeR mail oUtside BaR facilities for any occasion. Call Pete: 07779 306751.

BaKeRs aRms moBile BaRs - 25 years experience, all occasions. Call lee: 07834 788073.

to PURCHase: staddle stones (mushrooms). £150 paid for good examples. tel: 07836 230541. all sPoRts PRogRammes and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. large collections welcome.

Cash paid. tel: Clive 01749 675456.

ColleCtoR requires ClassiCal lPs, whole collections. tel: 07931 837783.

GUNS WANTED

By Registered Firearms Dealer Rifles • Shotguns Air Rifles • Air Pistols Any Condition We Collect in Any Area

Tel: 07970 742471

Dog Holidays

Situations Vacant

Holiday FoR yoUR dog. let your dog stay with us when you are away. 24-hour attention and long walks. Fully licensed and insured. Vet approved. References available. tel: 01963 240650.

FRee tRaining with taBs, yeovil. employability, maths, english, CsCs, Flt, sage. Call 01935 411711.

For Sale single Bed, 3ft wide, 6ft 4ins long, 15ins height, trolley wheels, 2 drawers.

Blue-grey with pastel gemstone pattern, c/w padded slide-on headboard, oyster colour (no mattress). good condition. £15, buyer collects - nr glastonbury. tel: 01458 447783.

3 Foot adJUstaBle Bed £100. lifting chair £50. Both excellent condition. tel: 01458 250444 evenings.

ComPUteR desK, large, mahogany colour, 2 drawers, shelves for keyboard and computer, £40. tel: 01935 822065. moBility aids, bath seat, toilet frame, bathroom / shower seat, walking frame, £10 each. tel: 01935 822065. soUtH PetHeRton, well situated bungalow in excellent decorative order. enclosed entrance lobby, entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, double bedroom, shower / w.C., dg, gas central heating. new carpets throughout. Private courtyard with workshop. garage. easy walking distance to shops, P.o. etc. no forward chain. £124,500. tel: 01935 881909. golF ClUBs, set of macgregor irons, 3 to sand wedge (9 clubs). VgC. £50. tel: 01935 881909.

T.V. rental t.V. Rental - long or short term, domestic & commercial, up to 50-inch plasma. H. R. Hodge. tel: 01460 240645.

musical mUsiCal instRUments - brass, woodwind and strings, for sale and rental. tel: 07974 412269.

Personal oVeR 40? we offer a traditional approach to finding someone special. tel: sian england on 01935 431396.

meeting Place genUine male would like to meet female for friendship, possible relationship, 30 - 40 years old, non smoker. tel: 07929 066821.

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

THe VIsITOr september 2012 51

your guide to local services

PHONE - a - Firm Transport & Storage The key to all your storage needs!

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

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

• Open 7 Days a Week • 20 Years Established Family Business • Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service • Removals To and From Storage • Self Store with Easy Access • Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff High Street, Sparkford, nr. yeovil, Somerset Ba22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692

oCtoBer deAdline Monday 17th september Domestic Appliances

Pe

PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs

COVERiNG THE SOuTH LOCALLy Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs Ø Repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OAP discounts

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

Taylors Domestic

Security

appliances Ltd. Sales & Repairs for Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble Driers etc. ridge view, penmore road sandford orcas dt9 4se Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

01963 220366 email: info@tda.uk.com Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

Maintenance and Repairs You CAN’t i CAN PAul CheDzoY Property & Garden maintenance

Decorating, Gardening, Building and General D.I.Y.

 01935 472669 ... or

07884 345511

email: ucantican07@aol.com

Trading for over 5 years CUSTOMER REFERENCES AVAILABLE

A. hamilton

Sliding sash window specialist Repairs - Refurbishments - Replacements

Electrical Contractors

Preservation

MAPLE PRESERVATION • damp Control • timber treatments • dry Rot • Condensation Control • 30 year Bonded guarantee

Tel: Gillingham 01747 826960 Mobile: 07881 504426

Plumbing MAINsToNEs ElECtriCAl ContrACtors Industrial, Commercial & Domestic Installations station road, Bruton National Inspection Council for somerset BA10 0eh Electrical Installation Contracting tel: (01749) 812316 mobile: 07885 625456

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 52 THe VIsITOr september 2012

THIs sPACE costs just £18 + vAT per month Reaching over 60,000 potential customers each month!

To PlACE youR ADvERT

Tel: 01963 351256 Or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Damian Hoddinott PLuMBInG SeRVICeS Competitive rates for all your plumbing needs Tel: 01963 441232 or Mobile: 07971 676111

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

complete windows or just repairs. rotten wood replaced, new sills, re-puttying, sashes unstuck, broken hardware and sash cords replaced, draught-sealing, rattles eliminated.

Qualified to Advanced City & Guilds Level

tel: 01935 863071 www.sashwindowtlc.co.uk

• • • • • • • • •

sERvICEs

Exterior and interior decorating Gutters cleared and cleaned High level painting and cleaning Conservatories washed down Removal of disused sky dishes and cabling Repointing of stone and brickwork Patios cleaned Many other jobs undertaken No V.A.T. competitive rates for seniors

Contact JAMEs CADE on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

Services Good potAtoes takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices Anchor hill service station winCanton 01963 32609

PHONE - a - Firm Cleaning

your guide to local services

Roofing

JPC Cleaning Services Friendly Cleaning specialist 20 years Experience – Fully insured

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

Regular Weekly & Fortnightly Home Cleans

SLATiNG & TiLiNG SpeCiALiSTS

oNe-oFF spriNg CleANs Window Cleaning ✴ Carpet Cleaning Mobile Car Valeting

Specialists in period and listed properties

Tel: 01935 474772 or 07896 967943 www.jpccleaning.co.uk

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

26 Stembridge, nr. Kingsbury, Martock TA12 6BN Telephone: 01460 240229 • Mobile: 07917 411961

Building

Dave Hoddinott FUlly QUaliFied BUildeR - estaBlisHed 1973

• renovations & extensions • roofing + Carpentry • plumbing & heating • Ceramic Wall & Floor tiling • painting & decorating • electrical Contracting Competitive Prices - No Job Too Big or Too Small FRIENDly & RElIABlE sERvICE

tel: (01963) 440256

24 hour emergency call out

Dentures

DENTURE REPAIRS While You Wait Collection & Delivery Denture Advice Mr. C. Dunn

MDS Builders

Registered Dental Technician

01749 812585 www.dunndental.co.uk

• Complete Refurbishments • Extensions • Landscaping • Painting & Decorating Tel: Gillingham 01747 822692 Mobile: 07594 524602 Email: MDSbuilders.org@gmail.com

Are you a denture wearer? de to m nture smi ake y s o le a gain u !

Denture repairs while you wait ...

www.mdsbuilders.org

TERRY NEW DENTAL

“ a professional service from one who cares”

Home visits a speciality

01458 210039

Say you saw it in The Visitor

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling • slating GRP Roofing All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact allan Carey

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

Bourton roofing co.

Oven Cleaning

 01747 840064

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing. uPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES t i m At ES

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

Clock Repairs CloCk repAirs Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

Communications Westline Communications Business Telecom Specialist For all your telecom needs For free, friendly and professional advice call ...

John penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

29,000 CoPIEs MoNTHly you should be advertising here

Mister Oven

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

Driving Tuition FAstRACKDRiViNG.Co.uK Pete Martin tHe sPeCialist for ... intensive Courses + off Road Facilities for under 17s

Tel: 01749 860010 07962 401166

TV & Radio Aerials DAvE PARMITER AERIAls tV aeRial seRViCe satellite / Video systems CCtV systems - PeRsonal seRViCe

tel: yeovil (01935) 422088 or mobile 07850 405433 no Call-oUt CHaRge

THe VIsITOr september 2012 53

your guide to local services

PHONE -aFirm

Plastering

K. R. Vincent

Stone Walling Specialist • Supply & Fit of Natural Stone

• Garden & Boundary Walls

Jose RoDRiGuez wood BURneRs - solid FUel - stoVes - lineRs RegistRy Plates and FlUes - twin walled systems FREE QUOTES Qualified Installer Competent Person Scheme 17 white Road, mere, wiltshire, BA12 6ez  01747 860848 / 07921 074602

josemere@aol.com

SANDPITS HEATING

Framing SCENES

 Multifuel Stoves

 Chimneys Relined  Full installation Service

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

High Street, Curry Rivel  01458 251476

Set by Frank Butler

Across 7.

10.

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Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of the Visitor - please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

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54 THe VIsITOr september 2012

Highly Competitive Rates Regular london Runs short / long term storage 01747 860543 / 07969 736011 FREEPHoNE

0808 108 8366 www.rdsremovals.co.uk

Pussy takes a toothed instrument with subterranean chamber. [8] Field, with German article at the front. [6] Where to find coconuts with pale skin. [4] Novel excitation to inebriate.

[10] A table on a ship. [6] Bad to return cheap jewellery as ducks do. [8] Horsy child (one of five) in extreme ends. [6] Tender change to property with regular payments. [6] Trot pair around picture. [8] One bishop swallowed by hen in secret! [6] Record in bandage is not all cheerful. [10] Large bag with dry white wine.

[4] Dog cruciverbalist. [6] Horse went quickly making gold leap. [8]

8.

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Blest girdle oddly to happen to. [6] Pollute grown-up long time, note. [10] On a shark, rebuilt flood-relief vessel. [5,3] Some gave children cheddar and got soaked. [8] Call after Valentine? All in a row. [6] Writer in dictionary began. [6] Greatly part of thigh, lying around. [6] Blizzard brings first sign at once. [4]

Solution to Crossword 310

Down

22

23

Removals

Plaster Over Artex Plasterboarding Rendering Tiling Coving General Building Work

To advertise in our phone-a-FiRm section telephone 01963 351256 / 351998

9.

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG to arrive by Monday 17th September.

Free Quotation

Tel: 01460 242557 Mob: 0780 31 76 489

07753 294256

www.scenes-online.co.uk

Prize Crossword No. 311

• Patio Laying

 01935 823490

« Picture framing « Restoration « Large selection of prints & paintings « Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel 01747 824050

HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE Showrooms Open Monday- Friday 8am - 5.30pm Saturday 8am - 4.30pm

• General Stone Repairs

SCOTT GOSNEY plastering

Artist Materials & Gallery

... over 200 on display

2

• Lime Mortar Work and Pointing

East Lydford 01963 240185 or Mobile 07811 211586

Fires/Chimneys

1

Stonework

Dad is black; will just do! [8] Careful: Fighting unknown. [4] Aped wrapping pie in cod. [6] Fix Belle, wild and bendy. [8] Called at resort, inserted copper, ... ... worked it out?

[10] First boy made a meal of, and flogged. [6]

THE WiNNER of our Crossword 310 was Mr. A. Foot of Shepton Mallet, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at The Natterjack inn, Evercreech Junction.