SE THE G E US AT I & SHA LLINGHAM FTES B SHOW URY
In Passing ...
R
EADING A BOOK about England’s canals during World War II I came upon this description of freight haulage on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal in 1941. The barges were ‘some of the ugliest and clumsiest narrow boats ever built ... crewed usually with pathetic incompetence by tatterdemalion families which the Company had obviously recruited from “off the bank”, as the boatmen say’. What a pleasant surprise to see in a book written in the early 1970s the word ‘tatterdemalion’ that I had thought to be almost obsolete by that date. Meaning ‘ragamuffin’ (another word seemingly destined for obsolescence) it conjures images of the acute poverty that afflicted much of English society until late-Victorian times. And as an adjective to portray the narrow boat crew it is so much more expressive than the plain ‘ragged’ could ever be. It is perhaps inevitable that some words fall into disuse. In Visitorland we have lost a lot of our old dialect words in the last 60 years, partly because changes in agriculture have removed the need for them, partly because increased mobility has changed the social structure of our towns and villages, and partly because the mass media and electronic communications have introduced us to a lot of new words. Compilers of the Oxford English Dictionary recorded around 90,000 new words and new meanings of old words that entered the English language during the 20th century, and doubtless many more words were coined that didn’t survive long enough to attract the attention of lexicographers. While advances in science and technology have demanded new terminology, so too have new movements in politics and the arts and new developments in warfare, defence and international diplomacy. Fashion, food, music and dance have all spawned vocabularies of their own, so have young people with their latest slang, and the ease of overseas travel since the 1960s has introduced us to countless foreign words that we have absorbed into English, words like ‘pizza’, ‘quiche’, ‘kebab’ and ‘tandoori’.
Back in the 1950s words connected with computing began to come into use and from the 1990s the internet generated such expressions as ‘website’, ‘home page’ and ‘spam’. And language is constantly being adapted by users of the social media of Facebook and Twitter, although much of it has yet to stand the test of time and find its way into the dictionaries. These are all welcome signs of a dynamic English language, the native language of around 400 million people worldwide and the second language of a further 100 million. Even so, ‘tatterdemalion’ joins other favourites of mine like ‘gallimaufry’, ‘charabanc’ and ‘serendipity’ as words with a nuance of meaning unmatched by others offered by the thesaurus. And although it’s unlikely that I will ever have the need to use any of them in what I write, I suspect they will all crop up one of these days as answers in cryptic crosswords. NN.
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September Issue published Thursday 27th August Deadline Friday 14th August
PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG
Ltd.
Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag
Proprietor, Accounts & Subscriptions Helen Dunion Production Manager Jeff Farrow
Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock © The Visitor Ltd. 2015
(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)
CONTENTS
Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to fantasy literature
ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 48 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 28 BOOK REVIEW - 47
CHILDRENS WORLD with COMPETITION - 25 CROSSWORD - 50 GARDENING - 44
GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY SHOW - 20 HOUSE & HOME - 30
LEISURE & TRAVEL - 23
LETTERS - 5
LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 17 NOTE TO ADVERTISERS Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request. We cannot guarantee any specific page or position, but will always do our best to comply with clients’ wishes.
ARTWORK Artwork & design by our production department and photographs taken by our photographers are the copyright of The Visitor Ltd.
Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should send uncompressed TIFs, JPEGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than size required, along with a hard copy print-out. For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.
The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.
MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 5 MOTORING - 8
MUSIC for the MONTH - 24 NOTICE BOARD - 7 PAPERCHASE - 47
PAMPER YOUR PET - 42
PHONE-A-FIRM - 48 PUBS - 37
SHAFTESBURY - 18
THEY SAY - 40
WINCANTON - 9
WINE & DINE - 36
Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON
THE VISITOR August 2015 3
A Welcome Guide to starting a holiday let Self-catering specialists, Welcome Cottages, share points to consider if you are thinking of starting a holiday let.
Demand for good quality holiday homes is undoubtedly growing and there is a huge opportunity for property owners in the South West to benefit from a successful holiday let business. The Welcome Cottages checklist covers the essential considerations to help get you started:
Location, location, location – The South West is home to some of the UK’s most stunning tourist destinations, but you don’t have to be in a ‘hotspot’ to achieve great bookings. We are noticing a trend for customers making their holiday choices based on the lifestyle and foodie credentials of the area, especially great restaurants and farmers markets. Interestingly, one of the most important things people look for is a good pub within walking distance!
Agency or flying solo – Consider if you’re going to use a lettings agent or do it on your own. The benefit of a good agent is they will deal with all the enquiries, bookings and negotiations with customers – which can obviously be time consuming. Also consider marketing – if you’re not using an agent, how will you make sure people know about your property? Maintenance – Are you going to maintain and clean the property yourself? If not, make sure you find someone you can trust as you can’t afford to upset visitors with a dirty bathroom or a broken oven.
Sell the dream – You need to ensure your property is easy to find online and represented by excellent images. You want to grab people’s attention at first glance. Building – If you’re thinking you might build or renovate, get an expert’s advice as early as possible. Our Regional Managers can offer no obligation advice from planning stage, such as how many bathrooms you might need and the preferred layout for holiday homes in the area. It’s good to understand what the requirements are for 4 and 5 star gradings so you can ensure you fit out your property accordingly.
Furnishings – Remember you’ll need to please lots of different tastes so keep décor neutral but not flat. Buy items that are easy to look after, but good quality - hundreds of people could use them each year! A good quality TV and DVD player are essential, as well as a good range of kitchen equipment. Remember that many holidaymakers now expect Wi-Fi too. Prices – You obviously want to make good profits, but price yourself too high and you may put yourself out of reach. Seek expert advice. Family friendly – Consider if your property is going to be aimed at families. If so, you might need to think about child-proofing and extra equipment which could be helpful.
With decades of experience in the holiday let business, Welcome Cottages is the trusted regional specialist among property owners and holidaymakers alike. As an ABTA assured company, properties are regularly inspected and awarded VisitEngland standard grading so all parties can rest assured that the level of property booked will be the standard they receive during a break. Welcome Cottages is expanding its property portfolio in The South West and is encouraging property owners to get in touch. For more information or advice, simply visit:
www.welcomecottages.com/letting-your-property or call 03452 688755. About Welcome Cottages: www.welcomecottages.com
With over 7,000 holiday cottages welcoming holidaymakers nationwide, Welcome Cottages is the market leading holiday letting agency. On-the-ground knowledge and friendly support from the company’s Regional Managers based throughout the county is backed by decades of experience and significant marketing spend, both on and offline, to drive profitable business to your holiday cottage. Additionally, all properties selected by Welcome Cottages are also listed on the UK’s largest holiday cottage site
cottages4you.co.uk
4 THE VISITOR August 2015
Letters To the Editor Cynical!
Sir, Just thought that I would contact you re the latest money making scheme from Local World's Mid Somerset series (and no doubt other local papers in the group). Life Through A Lens is an eight-page supplement with 52 photographs, mostly showing animals or landscapes mostly taken by readers. The competition to choose your 'favourite' photo requires readers to text their vote for their choice at 50p plus standard network charge. This gives you one vote. You can also fill in a voting slip
printed in the paper, this gives two votes. All the photos have the names of the 52 photographers attached, therefore family and friends, and no doubt the artists themselves, are encouraged to vote at 50p plus call charge with a chance of winning either a digital SLR camera, or compact version. Third prize is a £150 voucher from sponsors Specsavers. I am all in favour of e nco ura g ing p e o p le t o t a ke photographs but to have a competition where the winner is chosen by no doubt badgering family and friends to vote for them, at the cost of a 50p per text, plus call charge, plus the cost of buying a copy of the paper at £1 and a stamp for a postal vote is cynical. Name & Address Supplied
Say you saw it in The Visitor Medals
Programmes
Coins
Memorabilia Framed
Poppies Football 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
Mentioned in
Dispatches
Business grant made available in Wincanton, Castle Cary and Bruton areas
A business grant is being made available by SSDC to help businesses in Wincanton, Castle Cary and Bruton areas. The Retail Support Initiative provides funds to make improvements which visually enhance the heart of the town or village. A Retail Support Initiative grant was recently obtained by Alex Appleton Jewellers to help the business relocate to the High
Street in Wincanton. The premises that the business has moved in to had been left empty and neglected for many years. The grant obtained has helped give the shop front a much needed face lift. Councillor Nick Weeks, Area East Committee Chairman said, ‘The Retail Support Initiative grant will enable businesses to get back onto the High Street and boost the local economy. We have already seen examples of where the grant has helped and we expect to hear from many more businesses interested in the grant. These premises have a particularly attractive frontage and the works will significantly improve the appearance whilst respecting the historic features.’ To obtain details of the Retail Support Initiative grant, contact Terena Isaacs, Community
SOMERTON Over 100 Shops & Businesses
Visit our Business Directory
www.somerton.co.uk
THE VISITOR August 2015 5
We Hear
That according to a certain Chiselborough gentleman whilst on holiday - a Cascade of Fallin' Rain makes you want to sing ... when teamed with a jug of sangria.
That a Welsh contingent of the Railway Police on duty at Cary Station over the Glastonbury Festival weekend, were told that they should have the word ‘Police’ and not the Welsh ‘Heddlu’ on their backs, when on English soil. That it is hoped that Malcolm Gliddon of Box will not be speechless at his son Alex’s wedding this month.
That F. Hodder of Martock has an ‘eye’ for a good photograph and is also a talented artist.
That following their success at Race for Life in Sherborne, ‘June’s Girls’ celebrated in style with posh nosh and a bottle of bubbly.
That when it comes to growing tomatoes, Leah Sweet of Yeovil now knows that to increase productivity it’s the side shoots you pick off ... not the flowers.
That former Mere businessman Brian Padfield, has not let the grass grow under his feet since moving to Cornwall.
That in Castle Cary, the new chairs are just for admiring, not for sitting on, according to Mr & Mrs Teasy Weasy of Yeovil.
That having arrived for his appointment at Vision Express, Mr Neale Gear of Sparkford Timber Buildings and Gates realised that he should have gone to Specsavers ... you silly boy.
That two Yeovil College students have represented Somerset at the English Schools Athletics Association Championships at Gateshead International Stadium - Brett Harrison (17) of South Petherton (200m) and Jordan Davies (18) of Sherborne (shot putt).
Mentioned in
Dispatches Support Assistant at South Somerset District Council on 01935 462248 or visit the Churchfields Office in Wincanton.
Opening hours for the office can be viewed at www.southsomerset. gov.uk/find-us.
Last Night of the Proms
Tickets are available for Yeovil Rotary Club's annual Last Night of the Proms concert at the Octagon Theatre, Yeovil on Friday 4th September. The audience will be able to enjoy popular classics, music from the theatre and the big finale
with traditional flag waving! Proceeds from this year's concert will benefit the new Charity CT Scanner Appeal at Yeovil District Hospital, a critical piece of equipment that is much needed. Tickets are available from Rotary 01460 240984; Old Mill Accountants 01935 426181 or the Octagon 01935 422884.
Castle Cary and Ansford Carnival Society Events
Wednesday, 5 August 2015 Bingo at the Scout Hut, next to the Primary School. Eyes down 7.30pm, all welcome.
Charity Festival Breaks All Previous Records!
Home Farm Fest, the music festival held in Chilthorne Domer and the biggest annual fundraiser for the charity School in a Bag, has smashed its previous year’s total by a whopping (almost) £20,000! This year’s festival raised £46,666, an enormous leap from last year, which at £27,418
MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd
Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary BA7 7BH Tel: 01963 351052
Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service
That Malcolm Francis of Yeovil has been a painter and decorator for 50 years - but he still doesn’t know where to put his ladder.
That Rosemarie Phillips of Castle Cary recently failed to get any cash from the service till at Barclays Bank. It was not until the man stood behind her in the queue suggested that she used her debit card and not her bus pass was the matter resolved. That Jan Farrar-Bennetts of Wells will now have to purchase three studs when purchasing her earrings.
6 THE VISITOR August 2015
Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 12.30pm, or by appointment
Morley House, Market Place, SOMERTON, Somerset, TA11 7LX • www.awruleandson.co.uk
Mentioned in
Dispatches has seen an increase of £19,248. Incredibly, Home Farm Fest has seen a rise over the last four festivals from £8,000 in 2012 to 2015’s £46,666 and a total of over £193,000 in its 10 year history.
Fund Raising for Cancer Research UK
The 3rd August is the start of Winky Kicks Cancer Week - a wide range of events and activities in Wincanton to raise money for Cancer Research UK. There’s lots to do for both children and adults over the 7 days, for example: Treasure Hunt, Fashion Show, Fancy Dress & Disco, Coffee Morning, Tug ’o War, Music, Fun Day. Last year Winky Kicks
Cancer Week raised £10,570, help to make this year even better. For more information and to book tickets for any of the events www.winkykickscancer.co.uk
Hospital on Saturday 4th July. Thanks to a variety of stalls, the generous sponsorship of local businesses and a grand draw, £1,300 was raised.
The winners of the H&M Competition in last month’s Visitor were: Mrs H. Barnes of Shepton Mallet; Mr Paul Drake of Sturminster Newton; Mrs A. Cave of Street; Mr R. Webb of Leigh, Sherborne and Ms Karen Charles of Ilminster. The answer to the competition question was Hennes & Mauritz. The Visitor would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who entered the competition and H&M for supplying the £50 gift cards for the winners.
The three winners of the family tickets to see Dinosaurs Alive at Longleat were:
Competition Winners
£1,300 Raised at Annual Fete
The League of Friends of Crewkerne Hospital held its annual fete in the grounds of the
Dinosaurs Alive Competition
B. Cordery of Crewkerne with ‘I think you need to see the hygienist’ and ‘Not at your prices’; M. Harris of Castle Cary with ‘I have got a sore throat’ and ‘You need your tonsaurs out’; and A. Mitchell with ‘I told you, I’m a vegetarian’ and ‘Just checking, because I know my wife came in with me’.
A VERY SPECIAL VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY
Become a SAMARITAN and you become part of a superb local team that offers emotional support 24/7
Find out more about our exceptional training programme and the chance to make a real difference at a VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION on one of these dates: Thursday 22nd October, 7.00pm • Saturday 31st October, 10.00am Thursday 26th November, 7.00pm • Saturday 12th December, 10.00am We are keen to hear from anyone over 18 with time in the evenings and weekends. Call 01935 414015 and let us know when you are coming or email joinyeovilsams@gmail.com
Yeovil Samaritans, 25 The Park, Yeovil • www.samaritans.org You could change someone’s life – maybe your own
August Notice Board FROME
Geno Washington to headline Frome Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival 3 on Sunday 18 October! Tickets: call 01472 349 222 or go online at http:// www.fromebluesfestival.co.uk/ index.html
SOMERTON
Rock ‘n’ Roll Night with DJ Jukebox, Saturday 5th September 7.30pm at Somerton Sports Club. £5 on the door. All proceeds to St. Margaret’s Hospice.
SOUTH PERROTT (A356)
Village Open Day 9th August, 11am - 5pm, in this pretty Dorset village. A family day out: Classic Cars, Flower Festival, Stalls, Gardens, Art Exhibition, Sumo Wrestling etc. Lunches, Teas. Free parking and entry.
ADVERTISE YOUR SEPTEMBER EVENT HERE
A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 for 20 words - send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid. Extra words 30p each. The deadline for our September issue is Friday 14th August.
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/learningdisabilityservice THE VISITOR August 2015 7
VINTAGE Motor Cycling
I HAVE OFTEN SAID that this hobby of old vehicles can become quite addictive and all consuming. An illustration of this point can be seen with Andy and Lynda Sharp from Yeovil. Both have been keen supporters of the VMCC for several years. Andy has several bikes and rides regularly. Lynda is the very efficient secretary of the Dorset Section, but she is unable to ride on a motorcycle due to a slight disability which restricts her movement. Undeterred, various ways were thought of to get Lynda mobile with the rest of the gang. A sidecar was not considered suitable and so Andy surmised that a Trike would be the best solution. About four years ago the idea started to become reality and a BMW motorcycle became the donor machine to start the proceedings. Plans were drawn to suit the requirements. A BMW car rear axle was purchased along with a rear subframe which had been professionally made. The rear subframe was then altered in such a way that it allowed Lynda access and egress from the machine. With the basics laid out it then took nearly four years of construction to get everything just fit for purpose. The quality of engineering throughout the machine is outstanding and the detailing is much too great to relate here. Eventually in the early part of 2015 the machine was finished and excitement grew. That was until Andy learnt that the machine had to pass the Ministry of Transport's latest regulations before it could be registered to go on the road, these regulations include all the emissions tests. Two visits to the VOSA test centre at Exeter eventually
MOTOR ING
Andy & Lynda Sharp who received a trophy for the Best Threewheeler at the Jeff Clew Memorial Run, held on 28th June.
resulted in a pass and the necessary bits of paper. Excitement grew once more until dashed by the DVLA who wanted certificates from the Customs and Excise to prove that no duty was payable upon the machine or bits of the machine. Eventually in June the day arrived when the trike had passed all regulations and been registered for the road. Four years of hard graft had at long last been rewarded. I next jump to the Jeff Clew Memorial Run held on the 28th June at the Haynes International Museum. Despite heavy early rain Andy and Lynda were not deterred and the trike made it to its first event. How nice it was to see Lynda now able to take a more active role. I am glad to report that the trike performed well and both had an enjoyable day. They were even rewarded with the trophy for the Best Threewheeler. My picture
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8 THE VISITOR August 2015
this month shows them outside the museum at the conclusion of the run. On the 7th June the Wells Classic Motorcycle Club held their ever popular 'Tortoise and Hare Run' from Wells Market Place. Different routes to cater for bikes of all ages ensured a good entry. Run as a charity event last year's effort raised around £2000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. They are hoping that this year's event will raise a similar amount. At the conclusion the Mayor of Wells made thirteen presentations (there must be scope for another award in there somewhere) to the worthy winners, they are too numerous to name here but congratulations to the winners and the organisers for another successful day. August continues the busy season for all clubs involved with old motorcycles. The Somerset
Section of the VMCC starts this month with a guest speaker at their club night at Cossington on the 6th. Next they have their Sign Post Rally on the 9th which starts at Creech St Michael Village Hall and they end the month with an Evening Meet on the 20th at The Retreat at Ashcott. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section make do with just a club night this month, on the 10th, and that will be an auction of motor cycle related parts. The Dorset Section start with the Border Run from the Orchard Park Garden Centre at Gillingham on the 2nd. Followed on the 5th by the Lunch Meet at the Riverside Cafe, West Stour, then by the club night at Pulham on the 12th which will take the form of an autojumble and barbecue. On the 19th they have another Mid Week Run starting from the Otter Nursery, Wincanton. Lastly on the 29th will be the Breakfast Meet back at West Stour. Another date for your diary is the 30th August when the Rotary Clubs of Sherborne will hold their excellent Historic Vehicle Rally in the magnificent Sherborne School Quad. A social run in the morning followed by the display of vehicles in the afternoon for the public to inspect, and all funds going to charitable causes. On the same day the Westlands Classic Motorcycle Club will be holding their Sunflower Run. This is another event organised to raise money for a charity, this time being St. Margaret’s Hospice in Somerset. Give these whatever support you can, the organisers will be pleased to see you. Any more information you might need on the VMCC events then ring 01935-872528. For the Wells and Westlands Clubs you can find full details on line. Whatever your interests might be it is important to get those old vehicles out on the road and make sure you enjoy them. Rod Hann.
WINCANTON
THE FIRST IMPRESSION a town gives can depend on the direction from which you approach it. Come to Wincanton from the south on the A357 or the west on the A303 and the town looks attractive and compact
on the hillside overlooking the Blackmore Vale, despite the inevitable edge-of-town sprawl of modern superstores, business park and industrial estate. Enter from the east on the old A303 and the long Bayford Hill quickly
becomes the High Street, a bustling commercial centre with its many shops and businesses concealing the panoramic views down the Vale. Different again, just as scenic but with more historical interest, is the approach from the north on the road from Bruton. After climbing out of the Brue Valley the road crosses the flat farmland
as far as Wincanton Racecourse then drops dramatically down a short, steep, winding hill into a narrow tree-lined valley which it shares with the River Cale – and until 1966 with the Somerset and Dorset Railway as well. Although this has marked the start of the built-up area of the town for around 200 years, it could be mistaken for the entrance to a
Dales Car Repairs Ltd Unit 21 / 22 Lawrence Hill Business Centre WINCANTON • BA9 9RT
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The Visitor
can be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Stunning new season collections now arriving ... A – GG Cups
Expert Fitting Service Rigby & Peller Trained
7 Market Place, Wincanton, BA9 9LL • Tel: 01963 32808 • www.amour-lingerie.co.uk
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Summer Sale Now On
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Golden Charter Brochure available on request Clive Wakely Dip F.D. M.B.I.E.
The Old Police Station, Carrington Way WINCANTON BA9 9JS Tel: 01963 31310
fashion boutique & designer room
Market Place • Wincanton 01963 31676
Shopping Parade • Langport 01458 252010
THE VISITOR August 2015 9
W INCANTON grounds of Shatterwell House, which was rebuilt in the mid1840s on the site of a former farmhouse. At this time of year the River Cale trickles over a weir but after prolonged rainfall it is a veritable waterfall. And perhaps stroll up the adjacent Coneygore Lane footpath to the fields behind Cash’s Park and onwards to the top of Ireson Lane; it provides some pleasant views
small village. On the left, on the site of what is now Whitehall Garage and a couple of bungalows, stood a curving terrace of 18 cottages, six of which were certainly there in 1840. The terrace was demolished in the 1950s. The river now flows below the left side of the road and it’s worth finding somewhere safe to park and walk back to take a closer look at the weir in the
across the town. On the opposite side of the road, Bath Terrace and Linden Cottages date from the late 19th century and were probably built on the site of former dwellings.
Next to them at the junction with Shadwell Lane is Shatterwell Shoots, in bygone days a dependable supply of fresh spring water. The Victorian gothic stonework surrounding it was
GENTS & BOYS HAIRDRESSING at
The Barber’s Shop
WINCANTON Memorial Hall Mondays 1.00pm – 5.30pm Thursdays 9.00am – 5.30pm Saturdays 8.00am – 12noon
MILBORNE PORT Town Hall: Wednesdays 10.00am – 6.00pm SPARKFORD Village Hall: Fridays 12.45pm – 5.45pm
Lance Wells & Mike Baker − State Registered ★ PHONE for a HOME VISIT ★ 01935 814074 or ... 07767 027798 mobile
At this time of year the River Cale trickles over a weir in the grounds of Shatterwell House, but after prolonged rainfall it is a veritable waterfall.
Tel: 01963 33370 | Higher Holton, nr Wincanton BA9 8EA info@elliscombehouse.co.uk | www.elliscombehouse.co.uk
10 THE VISITOR August 2015
ANDREW BARCLAY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BUTCHERS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 Email: andrewbarclaybutchers@gmail.com
SELLING QUALITY LOCALLY SOURCED MEAT, POULTRY & GAME AT COMPETITIVE PRICES SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL FARMERS HALF LAMBS ONLY £49 CUT TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS
SPECIAL OFFERS ALWAYS AVAILABLE BBQ MEATS - PLAIN & FLAVOURED NOW AVAILABLE
TRAY OF 30 FREE RANGE EGGS ONLY £5.19
WE ALSO STOCK A VARIETY OF FINE LOCAL CHEESES, HOMEMADE CAKES DESSERTS, PIES, PASTIES, SCOTCH EGGS, MILK, JERSEY CREAM MERE FISH FARM PRODUCTS, ANNAMMA’S CURRY SAUCES, COOKED MEATS A SELECTION OF DRY & SWEET BISCUITS & CONDIMENTS
ORDERS TAKEN FOR OUR MEAT FROM NORTH CADBURY VILLAGE SHOP & MAIDEN BRADLEY VILLAGE SHOP WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS
THE VISITOR August 2015 11
W INCANTON Bespoke • Corporate • Events Parties • Weddings • Sympathy Local & Nationwide Deliveries
01963 32367
11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA
Formerly called Hiscock’s Cottages, this attractive terrace was renovated and renamed Shatterwell Cottages about 30 years ago.
Specimen Plants Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance for Corporate & Discerning Clients
www.superplants.co.uk 01963 348420
Bespoke Picture Framing ... on the premises Wide Range of Mouldings & Mounts Ready Made Frames and Albums Digital Printing – Photo to Canvas Approved Passport and I.D. Photography
CAMELOT PHOTOGRAPHIC 3 Church Street Wincanton, BA9 8AH 01963 34424
Forever Fashion Vintage Bridal Boutique
Charity Vintage Fashion Show
Tuesday 4th AUGUST, 7.30pm The Bear Inn, Wincanton
Tickets £5 – proceeds to Winky Kicks Cancer Week Available from The Dolphin and Uncle Tom’s An evening of fashion through the decades Mood setting music by vocalist ‘Stevie P’ Open Friday - Saturday 10am - 5pm or call for an appointment
Forever Fashion
Church Street, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9AF (opposite church and car park)
Tel: 01963 34308 foreverfashion1987@gmail.com
12 THE VISITOR August 2015
erected in 1865 when the railway was being constructed on the hillside above. Beyond the junction the four houses called Shatterwell Villas were built a round 1 9 0 7 t o rep la ce t he cottages that had occupied the site probably since the 17th century. At this point the River Cale flows under the road from left to right where the small Waterside estate was built on an old orchard in 1988. On the left-hand side of the road the terrace of attractive old stone cottages was extensively renovated in the mid-1980s and renamed Shatterwell Cottages. It adjoins the former police station, one of the oldest in Somerset, which opened in 1856 and consisted of an office, cells and two dwellings, together forming a U-shaped stone building with an arched entrance in the centre and the date, crest and motto of the County Police above the arch. It was closed in 1973 and converted into flats in 1988. North Street now rises and twists its way out of the valley towards the Market Place. The first building on the right beyond Waterside is St Joseph’s, originally a Roman Catholic school founded by Sisters of the Ursuline Order in 1891. The Sisters left in the early-1920s, but while they were in Wincanton they lived next door in the elegant Rockhill House which dates from the 1730s. This imposing three-
Cullingford Carpets & Interiors have a crush on recycling!
Cullingford Carpets & Interiors of Wincanton become one of the latest companies to acquire a Kenburn Carpet Crusher as part of their commitment towards a zero waste to landfill policy.
Cullingford Carpets & Interiors produced a staggering 100 tons of carpet waste in 2014 and with ever increasing disposal costs decided they needed to look for an alternative method of disposal for all their waste – ideally in a more environmentally friendly manner, to cut down on their disposal skip costs and eliminate their waste going to landfill. Cullingfords contacted Kenburn, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of recycling machines who work with Carpet Recycling UK, a waste-to-energy company who utilise the waste to power concrete kilns maximising the waste stream and its very high calorific value. The Directors of Cullingfords explain that not only are they able to dispose of all their waste to a recycling company but they also have reduced their disposal costs dramatically. Cullingfords are the first company to install a Kenburn Crusher in the south west and although the initial costs to buy the machine were high they will see a return on their investment in less than three years. In addition, Cullingfords are members of Recycling UK and not only re-cycle all their carpet and underlay waste but are associated with a programme to re use vinyl waste which goes to make new vinyl flooring. So when you buy flooring from Cullingford Carpets & Interiors you can be assured and safe in the knowledge that your old flooring and waste material is100% guaranteed to be recycled and not go to landfill. Cullingford Carpets & Interiors are very green when it comes to waste disposal – no matter what the colour of your carpet!
For more information contact Cullingford Carpets • Tel: 01963 33574 www.cullingfordcarpets.co.uk • info@cullingfordcarpets.co.uk
THE VISITOR August 2015 13
WINCANTON
storey building has extensive cellars and attics and was clearly designed by a professional architect rather than a local
jobbing builder. It is thought to be the first building in the town to incorporate Bath-stone dressings.
Next on the right is a long low building which housed the town’s Magistrates Court from 1922 until it closed in the 1990s. From
Wincanton’s former police station, closed in 1973 and converted into dwellings, is reputedly one of the oldest in Somerset.
Say you saw it in The Visitor
the mid-1870s it had been a Wesleyan chapel and schoolroom, and before that a malthouse. The adjacent terrace of four cottages dates back to the 17th century – for many years in the 19th century number 17 was a bakery – and the final building before the modern Malthouse Close dwellings is Cranleigh House which probably dates from the same time. Malthouse Close occupies the site of Charles Child’s Wincanton Brewery and its sole surviving part stands behind Cranleigh House which was the maltster’s house. After the brewery closed the other buildings were used as auction rooms and eventually demolished in 1983. The former National School was opened in 1838 and served until 1896 when the primary school was built on South Street. It then became the church rooms and was used for activities and functions connected with the parish church. After World War II it was leased to the Army and Air Force Cadets. The Wells Diocese sold the building in 1982 and it became the home of a publishing company, a printing firm and an advertising agency but nowadays it appears to be disused. Between the school and the Market Place a three-storey
HAIR SALON
45a HIGH ST. WINCANTON
For appointments tel Wincanton (01963) 34321
Wild Cardz
35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU • Tel: 01963 31234
Cards & Balloons for Every Occasion
Now in ... Exam Cards, Teacher Cards, New School Cards Teacher ‘Thank You’ Gifts
LOYALTY REWARD CARD SCHEME
CRAFT PACKS LOOM BANDS AVON COSMETICS Toys, Party Bags & Fillers – Gift Wrap – Gifts – Badges Party Items – Confetti – Helium & Latex Balloons UPS Collection & Delivery Point • www.wildcardzofwincanton.co.uk
The Wincanton Cobbler Shoe Repairs & Key Cutting - Established 1986 -
Shooting Sticks, Walking Sticks, Hiking Poles, Leather Bags, Travel Goods, Sports Bags, Wallets, Umbrellas LACES - POLISHES - WAXES - SHOE TREES
14 THE VISITOR August 2015
High Street, WINCANTON. Tel: 01963 34587
WINCANTON
terrace of flats fill the site where stood the builders’ sheds of Holt and Masters and a handful of small shops until a decade ago. The new buildings blend well with the 1837 one on the corner of the Market Place. On the left-hand side at the foot of the slope the three Rockhill Villas date from around 1860. Next door, Jewell’s House was opened as The Britannia public house in 1827 and closed in 1862 when it became a private house, and adjoining it is Britannia House. The villas built high above street level date from 1907, and at the top of the slope the threestorey Northbrook House was
Jam Making? Kilner Jars, Preserving Pans, Jars, Jelly Bags, Muslin, Rings & More!
Large Range of Cookware
Garden Chairs, Tables, Parasols
Cool Boxes / Bags, PicnicWare, English Charcoal
House Names in Wood & UPVC
Christening & Anniversary Gifts Clocks and Watches Watch Batteries & Straps sold and fitted The elegant Rockhill House dates from the 1730s and was designed by a professional architect rather than a jobbing builder.
NEWLY OPENED ... Wincanton Sew & Sew
3 High Street • WINCANTON 01963 33470
Single Double Narrow
Double Wide
Whipped
33 High Street Wincanton Telephone 01963 32356 www.papertrees.co.uk
HALF PRICE BOOKS ... ideal holiday reading
FETE? SHOW? Promote your Event or Business with our BANNERS, POSTERS, A-BOARD SERVICE
Back-To-School Bargain Packs – Pens, Files, etc Lamy Pen Stockists Cold Drinks Pocket Money Toys
For your DIY, Garden, and Household Requisites
Clementina & Co
High Street, Wincanton Tel: 01963 32249
Bespoke Rug-Making Service
Lets you choose the type of rug and ... how the border is finished
Border fabrics include: cotton, linen, jute, leather, suede, etc.
WE CAN TURN ANY CARPET INTO A RUG Full whipping available
For all your flooring requirements visit
SJH CARPETS Southgate Road, Wincanton 01963 824418
Double Piping Don’t panic, he’s still there! Uncle Phil that is, who was missing from the SJH Carpet line-up in the June issue of The Visitor.
Tools & Knives Sharpened
ESTABLISHED 1929
Dress Fabrics Cottons, Haberdashery ... and much more!
Stockists of Spear & Jackson Tools and Addis Houseware
Wincanton
Also at: High Street, Tisbury 01747 871178
Within SJH Carpets
The Tythings Commercial Centre Southgate Road, 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, and more!
Curtain Poles and Tracks, Haberdashery Ribbons, Threads, Cushions, Remnants, Linings etc.
Melody 07883 089 333
OPEN: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9.00am - 3.00pm (Thursday - Closed) Saturday 9.00am - 12.30pm
THE VISITOR August 2015 15
W INCANTON
opened in 1861 as The Greyhound Tap as an adjunct to the Greyhound Hotel on the Market Place. However from 1872 it became the premises and residence of a succession of businessmen including a veterinary surgeon and a watchmaker. From here to the Market Place the buildings are, despite appearances, all modern but designed to fit comfortably into the streetscape. The final one, Ralston Court, was built in 1986 on the site of three former shops. So this short stretch of road into the town centre is steeped in history and it is worth exploring even though all of the shops and other places of work have long gone. The building of Carrington Way with its library, large car park and supermarket hastened the shift of Wincanton’s retail hub eastwards up the High Street in the latter half of the 20th century. With the Memorial Hall car park also being at the top end of High Street, this has become the part of the town that attracts most shoppers, and two new businesses caught my eye. The old cottage next to the Dolphin Inn is now occupied by the recently-opened Babes 2 Teens selling children’s clothes, and the new building on the corner of Carrington Way is now Craftique, showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. A hundred years earlier the hub was the Market Place with numerous small shops in the adjacent streets including North
16 THE VISITOR August 2015
Street. Yet the bottom end of the High Street still remains busy – and quite trendy: the traditional Red Lion pub on the Market Place now has the ambience of a wine bar or bistro. Roger Richards.
Fund Raising Vintage Fashion Show
Forever Fashion will be holding a Vintage Fashion Show in aid of Winky Kicks Cancer Charity on Tuesday 4th August at 7.30pm at The Bear Inn, Wincanton. The evening will be showcasing vintage clothing from the 20's through to the 80's - cocktail time, travel, off to work, boho and more!! Travel back in time! The mood will be set with music from singer Stevie P. Tickets are just £5 available from The Dolphin Hotel and Uncle Tom’s.
Business Update
Diane Winton opened Sew & Sew earlier this year. Here you will find a comprehensive range of haberdashery, cottons and dress fabrics - plus accessories such as needlework boxes and ‘charm’ bundles (material squares). Jane is keen to encourage crafts - and can get you started in traditional rug making and other simple crafts. A sewing class is held regularly - call in for more information. Diane also makes and sells attractive jewellery and will undertake commissions. A full range of jewellery making accessories are on sale.
Nanny Jacks traditional sweet shop has opened at the top of the high street - opposite the Memorial Carpark and Craftique arts and crafts on the corner of Carrington Way. FWB Printing has re-branded and is now known as Aurora Print and Design.
SIR TERRY PRATCHETT, OBE died on 12th March 2015 at the age of 66. The English author of fantasy novels, was best known for his Discworld series, his links with Wincanton and the Discworld Emporium.
Wincanton had a very special place in Terry Pratchett’s world. It was a place he could come to and meet friends and fans in familiar surroundings, important to someone whose sight was deteriorating due to his vile illness. He liked to come here, sit in our shop and meet fans from literally all over the world. He took Wincanton to his heart and in many ways our lovely old town took him as an honorary citizen. And why not! We have street names from Discworld books as well as being officially twinned with the city of Ankh-
Morpork; the great city at the heart of his world. He told me once that what he admired about the town is the way it just 'got on with its life' regardless. He sat in our pubs, talked with locals about local issues and was not a 'knight of literature' with an OBE and plaudits from across the world, he was a one-time newspaper reporter who knew the value of local knowledge, local people, a small town in a big world, but a small town that knew its own mind and damn the rest! There was, and still is, a huge outpouring of grief at his death. We have had flowers, cards and messages of condolence by the hundred delivered to the Emporium but it was those good folk from our own town who popped their head round the door or stopped one of us in the street to say how sad they were at his passing that really brought home to all of us here just how special Terry was to so many local people. But life goes on and my dear friend would not have it any other way. The Discworld Emporium is expanding its business all the time as new people find us on line to buy their books and merchandise, or call in then to wander the town in search of refreshment or a mooch around the shops. Our web presence casts its net globally and is continually growing but to be so firmly rooted in and identified with a real place you can find on a map is a bit out of the ordinary. So far there has never been a big 'Hollywood' number done on any Discworld book but this may change within a year or so. Whenever and whatever, it is bound to bring more people in contact with Wincanton and even the duff parts of the A303 won't put them off from making the pilgrimage to visit the delights of our town and its unique connection to Terry Pratchett's Discworld. After all, where else in the entire world can fans gather together in costume to meet fellow fans and friends and wander the High Street from restaurant, café and pub in a real place that has a part in a very unreal world that is Discworld? Terry Pratchett's last novel, The Shepherd’s Crown will be published in August and in October the book that the Discworld Emporium aided and abetted Terry in creating 'The Compleat Discworld Atlas' will be on sale. Bernard Pearson The Discworld Emporium
LOOKING GOOD & Feeling Fine
Family Health with
Jenna Evans
Making the most of your medicines - part 8
THIS MONTH we’ll be taking a look at common drug-food-nutrient interactions with hormonal drugs. Foods - Hormones may increase the effects of caffeine, upping the chances of that jittery feeling as well as nausea and irritability. It may be best to limit or even avoid food and beverages such as coffee, cola, tea and chocolate when taking these meds. Your primary healthcare provider should be able to advise if this is true for your medicines - although in sensitive individuals it will probably become obvious very quickly! Grapefruit and possibly pomegranate can increase Estradiol levels in the body. This semisynthetic oestrogen hormone is used to treat menopausal symptoms, prevent osteoporosis and in any state of low oestrogen. Check if this is in your medication and if so consumption of these fruits could increase side effects of the drugs.
Nutrients - There are many nutrients that may be depleted by hormonal medications. Low B6 levels in women on the pill have been associated with higher rates of depression. A simple supplement may be enough to offset this undesirable side effect. The B Complex as a whole can be at risk, as well as the minerals magnesium and zinc. Being low in any of these nutrients can make us feel lethargic, lower immunity and stress resistance as well as be detrimental to our endocrine system - hormones! A good female multi-vitamin at the very least would be a wise investment. Vitamin C and D and beneficial gut bacteria are also potentially supportive medicines for certain drugs. There are also some nutrients that may be contraindicated. Iron for instance may not be lost from the body at the usual levels while taking oral contraceptives due to interference with the regular monthly bleed. Iron is a nutrient that can cause problems if too much is stored in the body - so do have your iron levels checked
The Freedom oF mobiliTy Get out and about ...
Mobility Scooters
before taking a high strength supplement if you are taking these drugs. Vitamin A can also be increased in the body, so likewise do not take high dose supplement unless advised by your healthcare professional. That’s all for this month, see you next time! Jenna Evans ©2015 Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.
Frederic’s Hair – Biosthetics
La Biosthetique – was developed in Paris in the 1950s to study the physiological connection between hair and skin. The Biosthetic Society was formed by technicians
in the hair and beauty industry, who wanted to develop the holistic concept for perfect beauty. Through the use of Microscopy they can treat psoriasis and dermatitis, thinning and poor hair and hair loss due to stress, medical conditions, poor diet, excessive colouring, heat damage and reducing male pattern baldness. All products/treatments are ‘green’. If you suffer from any of the above conditions contact Lyn or Frederic of Frederic’s Hair, Yeovil. Lyn and Frederic have over 30 years experience in the industry.
FREDERICS
HAIR
10 Hendford YEOVIL
Tricologicol Analytic Centre For the prevention and treatment of ... Hair and Scalp Disorders Hair Loss • Alopecia Brittle Hair • Seborrhea
Scalp Conditions Dandruff • Itchy & Irritable Scalp Flakiness • Psoriasis • Eczema
Contact Lyn on
01935 476460
The Dress Circle Dress Agency
QUALITY FASHION ITEMS WANTED TO SELL ON A COMMISSION BASIS Wedding hats, wedding outfits, cruise wear and good quality casual wear and accessories, accepted every day ... 10am - 4pm Monday - Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday
For large quantities collections can be arranged
4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY 01458 273485
HartMobility Yeovil Disability & Mobility Products
We offer the best service and the lowest prices in the
Personally tailored to suit your needs, on/off road use Options include type of seat, tyres, colour, etc. plus speed of 4, 6, 8, or 12 mph 65 stone weight capacity
South West
★ New Scooter £595
Car Transportable Scooters & more
Call in and see our extensive range
Scooters Serviced ... only £39
Relax in the comfort of your home ...
Rise & Recline Chairs & Beds Free delivery and removal of your old furniture Free home demonstration
we also stock a wide range of living aids – walking sticks, grab rails, etc.
“If you can’t come to us ... we will come to you” Call in and see us at ...
10 Falkland Square Crewkerne TA18 7JS (near the Co-op)
Tel: 01460 271172
★ Road Legal Scooter £1,495 ★ Reclining Chairs from £595 ★ NEXT DAY DELIVERY ● ● ● ●
Daily Living Aids Bath Lifts Walking Aids Wheelchairs
● Power Chairs ● Stair Lifts
01935 421111
E FRE NCE A R l INSU d lega oa for r sers u
Pre-owned mobility scooters and wheelchairs also available
1 Camborne Grove (Lyde Road) YEOVIL BA21 5DG www.hartmobility.co.uk
Scooter Servicing from £35 • FREE parking • FREE battery testing
THE VISITOR August 2015 17
SHAFTESBURY business focus
SHAFTESBURY is the highest town in Dorset and offers splendid views of the surrounding countryside from its famous Gold Hill. August is an exciting month for Shaftesbury with the popular Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show taking place a mile or so outside the town at the Motcombe Turnpike Showground. This annual event brings visitors to the town from far and wide.
Didn't know we had an enterprise hub for local small businesses right here in Shaftesbury?
The Wincombe Centre provides Office Space with inclusive fees from as little as £40 per week. The Easy In Easy Out licence agreements are a flexible and cost effective option for new start ups, and growing businesses. Home workers can benefit from a Virtual Office for only £30 pm, giving them a professional address with all the benefits and use of the facilities at the centre: use of the meeting room, shared marketing, and invites to all the free networking events and seminars. Perfectly situated in Shaftesbury, with free parking, access 24/7 and fibre speed broadband, your business could smart, flexible business space virtual space £30 pm office space from £40 pw
Meeting room. Fibre speed broadband. Access 24/7. Free parking. EASY IN EASY OUT
SHAFTESBURY 01747 850404
www.thewincombecentre.co.uk
Amber Heating Ltd
18 THE VISITOR August 2015
also benefit from the Meeting Room space. Suitable for up to 8 people, this lovely room comes with free WiFi, coffee and water, all for only £12 per hour. To find out more, or to enquire about the centre, please email wendy@thewincombecentre.co.uk or call Wendy on 01747 850404. www.thewincombecentre.co.uk
Amber Heating
Amber Heating Ltd is a family run business with over twenty five years experience in the heating industry including fourteen years in the renewable heating sector; we have recently relocated from North Hampshire to North Dorset. Our accreditations include MCS, HETAS, RECC, NAPIT and the Gas Safety Register. Our competent and friendly engineers aim simply to provide you with the heating system most suited to your home and your life style, especially aiming to provide an alternative heating system for those in rural areas dependant on LPG or oil fired heating systems. For our commercial customers we aim to provide the most efficient heating system to work for their business and provide free advice on the commercial RHI (renewable heat incentive) that may be available to them. For free advice and a no obligation quotation on the heating system that is right for you call us today.
colours such as aubergine through to the more traditional painted finishes in cream. If you don’t want to replace your kitchen completely, you can update it with replacement doors. These are available in a wide range of colours and finishes which can give your kitchen a completely new look. Homemaker are also able to supply from stock a wide range of kitchen appliances from leading manufacturers. Sometimes the cheapest appliance is not always the best value for money and it is Homemaker’s policy to give
straightforward advice and sell the customer the right appliance for their individual requirements. This customer care has paid dividends over the years as many customers are referrals and others travel some distance for the large choice available. Homemaker is part of the Euronics buying group and this enables them to buy competitively and pass the savings on to their customers. Whether you want a new kitchen designed and installed or a new kitchen appliance, look no further than Homemaker of Shaftesbury. See them at the
Homemaker - Kitchens & Appliances
Homemaker of Shaftesbury have a dedicated kitchen showroom – this showroom is currently being doubled in size to offer an even wider choice of kitchens. There is a style to suit all tastes, from the very contemporary in bold
01747 830450 07795 328319
A&R Tiles Ltd offer a complete supply and installation service. Visit their showroom on Salisbury Road, Shaftesbury SP7 8BT.
SHAFTESBURY business focus
Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show - when there will be plenty of special offers on the day!
Shirley Allum Fashions
If you are in the area why not pop in. Here you will find all the latest fashion collections
including Gerry Weber, Joseph Ribkoff, Crew, Joules, White Stuff, and Brax to name a few. The choice of trousers and jeans is extensive and includes NYD jeans guaranteed to make you look slimmer!! There are accessories to
complete your outfit - jewellery, hats and fascinators etc. The lingerie department has all the latest brands from Triumph, Lepel, Royce and Fantasie (plus lots more) as well
as a wide selection of Mastectomy bras from Anita Care. The friendly team are always on hand to help and advise. Call in and see for yourself, the stock is constantly changing.
Shaggy sheep - just one of the many exhibits at The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show taking place on Wednesday 19th August.
Celebr
20 Years
ating
COMING SOON We are extending our kitchen showrooms Even wider choice ... traditional and modern Super deals to be had Call in for details!
THE VISITOR August 2015 19
GILLINGHAM SHAFTESBURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW wednesday 19th August
Cattle, Carrots & Chutney
What is the connection? They are all exhibits at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show, dairy and beef cattle, sheep, horses and poultry exhibits are part of the agricultural section of this popular one day show. You will find the exhibits of carrots and chutney as part of the 193 classes in the quaintly names ‘Horticultural’ section. With over 300 exhibitors and almost 2,000 entries this is the biggest part of the Show, vegetables & fruit, flowers & floral design, homecraft & handicraft, photography and art with 30 classes specifically for children all go to fill the huge marquee. So successful has this section been that last year for the second time in just five years a larger marquee has been ordered. This coincided with the introduction of classes for Beekeepers, classes for honey, honeycomb, mead and wax products.
Food glorious food
The Food Hall marquee at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show will be a mecca for top quality food and drink exhibitors, farm fresh meat and vegetables, fresh and smoked fish, game and exotic meats, a vast array of tasty cheese, wine and apple produce, speciality imported foods, fresh locally baked breads, desserts, cakes and yogurts are just some of the wonderful selection of produce being exhibited. Under the same roof is the Homemaker Cookery Theatre, kindly sponsored by Homemaker the kitchen and electrical specialists of Shaftesbury & Warminster. A team of local chefs, led by David Shepherd of La Fleur de Lys, will provide a full day of demonstrations often using produce from stands within the marquee.
GILLINGHAM SHAFTESBURY
An exciting, fun-filled day for all members of the family.
AGRICULTURAL SHOW
at the Motcombe Turnpike Showground wednesday 19th August 8.30am – 6.30pm
★ Food Trade Stands ★ Bolddog Ling’s Motorcycle Stunt Team ★ Shetland Pony Racing ★ Heavy Horses ★ Gun Dog Display ★ Birds of Prey ★ Team Terrier Racing ★ Ferret Racing ★ Falconry Display ★ The Cornish Wurzels and Neon Moon ★ Cookery Theatre ★ Over 500 Trade Stands £12 £12 £3 £ 29
£14 £13 £4 £ 35
Find us on Facebook – gillandshaftshow 20 THE VISITOR August 2015
New Classes
In response to demand the Equine Section has introduced a number of new classes including Riding Club Horse & Pony Club Pony classes, a range of unaffiliated classes including Leading Rein, Young Stock, Mare & Foal and Working Hunter Pony classes. Cattle & sheep classes are always very well supported with new classes being created to accommodate exhibitors needs.
Where & When
The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show will be held at the Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, near Shaftesbury on Wednesday 19th August. For schedules or trade applications call 01747 823955 or email enquiries@gillshaftshow.co.uk or visit www.gillshaftshow.co.uk.
Millie’s Milk Bar. The BV Dairy marquee is at stand A11 overlooking the main show arena. Their popular milking cow Millie, the Dairy’s Mascot and their fabulous Magician will be on hand to entertain children ... and look out for the Scarecrow – part of the fund raising Scarecrow Trail. Light lunches and patisserie, some made using the Dairy’s products, with coffee and tea will be available from Turnbull’s of Shaftesbury.
Orchard Park joins UK’s top Garden Centres!
Independent garden centre Orchard Park of Gillingham has become the latest approved member of the Garden Centre Association (GCA).
BV Dairy
Plenty will be on show at the BV Dairy Marquee where a busy stand is planned at this year’s Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show on the 19th August. Taste some of the exciting products that are made at the Dairy, sample BV Dairy’s award winning Dorset Clotted Cream on a scone or a Milkshake made with delicious, local, Blackmore Vale milk from
The Garden Centre Association, with its dedicated head office team,
GILLINGHAM SHAFTESBURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW wednesday 19th August
represents over 200 garden centres - widely regarded as being among the UK’s most progressive. As the market has grown and the expectations of customers have increased, many have developed to become full scale ‘leisure destination' centres offering a rich and rewarding shopping experience based around plants and related products for the home and garden. Ensuring customer satisfaction is a crucial aspect of GCA activity and they don’t grant membership easily! All members are required to meet GCA standards, which represent the very best in garden centre retailing. Prior to gaining membership, the garden centre is subjected to a full and comprehensive standards inspection by a GCA inspector. Orchard Park are now part of an accredited group of some 200 garden centres nationally who have been audited and met the
high standards of presentation and service that is expected of this group. As part of the membership, the GCA conduct an annual inspection to provide constructive suggestions for improvements to help raise standards further, highlight good practice where found, make appropriate suggestions on ways to increase sales, profits and help motivate teams to strive that bit harder. Garden Centre Manager, Gavin Cooper, said, ‘Following the celebration of our 10th anniversary last year, we felt it was time to show just how good we are! We, of course, still strive to improve our business in all ways but feel that our new membership and the support of the GCA will prove invaluable in helping us achieve this.’ Visit Orchard Park on Shaftesbury Road, Gillingham, SP8 5JG or online at www.orchardpark.biz.
THE VISITOR August 2015 21
Thorngrove Garden Centre
NEW
Dwarf Red Hot Poker
Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4RE
... one of many new introductions at Thorngrove
Turn into Broad Robin off B3081, continue past Mellowes Residential Home: Thorngrove is next on right
01747 822242 Email: thorngrove.staff@scope.org.uk
■ Vast range of Herbaceous Plants looking good ■ Wide selection of Shrubs, Fruit, Roses & Trees ■ Specimen Trees & Plants Available To Hire for weddings and special events, ring for details ■ Visit our Stand at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show – Wednesday 19th August
Thorngrove Garden Centre was set up by Scope Scope exists to make this country a place where disabled people have the same opportunities as everyone else. Until then, we’ll be here. OPEN: 9am – 5pm EVERY DAY including SUNDAY
DONT MISS OUR FANTASTIC SHOW OFFERS
ERS DISHWASH
FRIDGES
❤
When it comes to buying kitchens and kitchen appliances we make it simple ... Simply the best - choice Simply the best - value for money Simply the best - customer service
H Extensive stock for immediate delivery H Any make or model supplied - leading brand names H Free-standing and built-in appliances H Exciting new display of built-in appliances H Helpful & experienced staff H Free local delivery H Ample free parking
WASHING MA CHINES
RANGES & COOKERS
See us at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show
Branches also at: WARMINSTER & BATH
Kitchens on display - full design service available
Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8PL
Tel: 01747 851476 Fax: 01747 858996 shaftesbury@myhomemaker.co.uk www.myhomemaker.co.uk
The Visitor can be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
22 THE VISITOR August 2015
Thorngrove Garden Centre will have their usual stand at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show this year – look out for them near the horticulture tent. They will have a selection of flowering plants from their enormous range of herbaceous perennials and shrubs, grown in their Gillingham nursery in coproduction with disabled people. The nursery is a real plantsperson’s paradise, with many unusual varieties, top quality and value, plus you can explore all the growing areas. If you are planning a wedding or special event, they also offer a tree and planter hire service. They have a range of different specimen trees up to 8ft tall which add a special ambiance to marquees and reception halls. Come and discuss your requirements either at the show or at the nursery in Common Mead Lane, Gillingham SP8 4RE, tel: 01747 822242.
A P Kitchens Solutions
A P Kitchens Solutions will once again be at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show this year. A P Kitchens Solutions are an independent kitchen company with showrooms at Ilchester, near Yeovil. They are able to design and supply new kitchens or can offer a refurbishment service to give your old kitchen a complete new look. All popular door styles and materials are catered for including - painted doors, solid oak and vinyl wrap. There is something to suit to all tastes and budgets. Doors are available as samples - which is an excellent way to give you a real idea of the quality A P Kitchens provide. All the finishing touches that complete the overall look of the kitchen are available including a selection of worktops, including granite, handles, sinks, taps and a superb choice of appliances to make your kitchen the heart of your home. To find out more visit their website or call in person.
GILLINGHAM SHAFTESBURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW wednesday 19th August
Stock Gaylard Oak Fair
The Stock Gaylard Oak Fair will be held on the 29th and 30th August, 10am – 5pm both days. This year’s special attractions include: Adams Axemen, Mere Down Falconry, Archery, Tractor rides around the deer park, a team of Heavy Horses who will compete against each other in an arena set out to simulate standing woodland, and for the first time The Great Big Tree Climbing Company. This year will see 200 exhibitors which include pole lathe turners, charcoal makers, cane seat weavers and furniture makers to name just a few and most will
be demonstrating their craft. It is the perfect day out for the whole family! To find out more please visit www.stockgaylard.com and for 10% off tickets please visit www.bradsons.co.uk
Bruton Art Society Exhibition Affordable Art by Local Artists
The Bruton Art Society is holding its 62nd Annual Art Exhibition offering a wide range of exciting work by local amateur and professional artists in assorted media, Oil paintings, Watercolours, Prints, Etchings and Sculptures. All the works on show
Graham Haskett of G.H.Sales is a regular exhibitor at the Show.
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
AP Kitchen Solutions FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN
Kitchens replaced for a fresh new look – at a reasonable price
Complete new kitchens designed to suit you
Replacement doors – “don’t replace it, reface it”
Huge choice of granite and quartz worksurfaces Full range of accessories and appliances
Full project management & qualified local installers We offer an expert and friendly service
01935 849559
To discuss your personal requirements contact Adam or call at our showroom
Northover, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LD www.apkitchens.co.uk
THE VISITOR August 2015 23
Somerset’s Festival of Transport
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd August, 9am – 5pm Wincanton Racecourse, Wincanton, BA9 8BJ Admission £5 OAPs £4.50 Children Free
Vehicles & Displays from Bygone Days Including – Steam Engines, Tractors, Military, Motorcycles Commercial Vehicles, Cars, Heavy Horses, and more Craft Marquee Trade Stands Refreshments
Enquiries: 07900 695620 www.somersetfestivaloftransport
Touring & Camping Pitches Caravans For Hire Seasonal Pitches Bar & Restaurant OPEN ALL YEAR NOT RESIDENTIAL Children & Pets Welcome
enquiries@bowdenscrest.co.uk www.bowdenscrest.co.uk
Bowdens, LANGPORT Somerset, TA10 0DD
MU IC M N S O FOR THE
TH
August 1st DELTA TANGOS - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 7th UTTER CHAOS - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 14th MARK VENUS & ONIKA - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 16th NO FIXED ABODE (3.30pm) - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 16th BELL STREET JAZZ BAND (1pm - 3pm) - Montague Inn, Shepton Montague 28th MUTTER SLATER & BAND - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 30th BOOTLEG BLONDIE - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon An AdvErt in 30th ALAN DREW (4pm - 7pm) - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi thE pub pAgES 30th STORM - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil EnSurES A FrEE MEntiOn hErE! LIVE MUSIC every Wednesday at The Crown, Sherborne
will range from traditional landscapes to challenging abstracts and much more in between. There is a large selection of mounted and unframed work for sale at very reasonable prices including artists made cards. The exhibition has proved each year to be an exciting event in the Bruton calendar. The Bruton Art Exhibition is open from Saturday 15th to Sunday 30th August from 11.00am to 5.00pm. (Last day on Sunday 30th August the exhibition will close at 12.00 noon). The venue will be in the Main Hall of Bruton School for Girls, Sunnyhill, Bruton. Postcode for SAT NAV users is BA10 0NT.
MOSTERTON ART GROUP 27th Annual Exhibition
Saturday 29th August – Saturday 5th September (inclusive) in the Skyrm Room of ... Beaminster Public Hall, DT8 3EF 10am – 5pm (4pm on the last day)
MEMBERS’ORIGINAL ARTWORK AND CARDS ARE FOR SALE Free Entry • Disabled Access
Parking in Adjacent Public Car Park For further information please contact
Joceline Wallis on 01308 862872
Somerset’s Festival of Transport - 22 & 23 August
Tina and Tony Carter formed Somerset's Festival of Transport rally back in 2012 with their first event taking place at Bruton. The following two years they held it in the grounds of Haynes Motor Museum. This year the event is being held at Wincanton Race Course. Tina and Tony put these shows on with the help of a few loyal sponsors and helpers and are always looking for more help. The vision of the show organisers is to eventually be self-funded and make a profit for charity. This can only be achieved with the support of the exhibitors and viewing public.
Mosterton Art Group
Celebrating their 27th Annual Art Exhibition this year is the Mosterton Art Group. For eight days the work of this talented group of artists will be on display in the Skyrm Room of Beaminster Public Hall in Beaminster (Sat Nav. DT8 3EF). Entry is free so browse at your leisure and maybe pick up an original piece of artwork.
Say you saw it in The Visitor
AUGUST OPEN DAYS
Sunday 30th & Bank Holiday Monday 31st
Saturday AUGUST 1st 9.30am – 4pm ... everyone welcome
Music, Vintage, Retro, Old & New
The Visitor can be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
24 THE VISITOR August 2015
KING GEORGE STREET YEOVIL Opposite The Post Office
Future Date ...
SEPTEMBER 5th
Childrens World
WITH CHILDREN now on their long summer break from school, thinking of ways to keep them occupied over the next five or six weeks is on the mind of every parent. There are many interesting and fun places to visit
in the South West but this can be an expensive way to keep them amused. Remember that children like things ‘to do’ and are often just as happy to have a picnic in the park and then feed the ducks. Here are a few more ideas for you.
Ferrari go-karts, inspired by the legendary Ferrari racing cars, are highly manoeuvrable and guaranteed to make your heart beat faster. Available from Ben Johnson at Shaftesbury.
Fun for all the family!
GO-KARTS for all ages
“Buddy”
Prices from £99
Ideal for the garden and all terrain Get out and about Suitable for ages 3+ up to adults
John Deere BFR-AF
“Buzzy”
... see our range
BenJohnson
Ben Johnson 17d Wincombe Business Park Shaftesbury, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 www.benjohnsonmowers.com
Living Pretty
Why not treat the family to a delicious freshly cooked, oven baked pizza at Living Pretty in Curry Rivel. Childrens Tiara & Tea Parties - The perfect party for your little Princesses to enjoy in the comfort of Living Pretty’s relaxed surroundings. Have fun decorating cupcakes, whilst enjoying finger sandwiches, homemade scones clotted cream & jumbleberry jam accompanied by fruit squash served in vintage china teacups & saucers. There’s even a fun packed goodie bag to take home along with your own sparkling tiara. It’s £12 per Princess with a maximum of 12 Princesses per tea party. Please call us at Living Pretty to book your party. Childrens Pizza Making Parties - Kids get to prepare and eat their own pizzas with all the toppings of their choice around a big table in the courtyard of Living Pretty all year round with flowing jugs of juice followed by a chance to
decorate their own ice cream sundaes and to top it off they each receive a fun filled goodie bag all for just £10 per head. Living Pretty can cater for up to 12 children at a time with parental supervision.
The Toyshirt is here!
Children can now interact with their favourite characters with the new Toyshirt - a Shirt that is also a Toy. This unique concept was created by Fashion UK and allows children to pull a tab to change/reveal additional designs on the Shirt.
Enter our competition on the next page, for a chance to win a Toyshirt.
AUGUST SPECIAL
EARLY BIRD PIZZA EVENINGS Every Thursday in August from 5pm – 7pm
FU LICE LLY NSE D
— Last Orders 6.45pm — ENJOY delicious Stone Baked Pizzas with family and friends in the relaxed atmosphere within the teashop and in our open air courtyard ... or place your order and take it away!
Somerset Afternoon Cream Tea For Two £20
Delicious Finger Sandwiches Homemade Cakes, Scones and Clotted Cream All served on a vintage style cake stand with china teacups and saucers
WE ALSO OFFER: Vintage China Hire, Bespoke Outside Catering Service Celebration Cakes Made to Order, Weddings & Childrens Parties, Home Interiors kate@livingpretty.co.uk • www.livingpretty.co.uk
The Old Bakery, High Street, Curry Rivel, Somerset, TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 253357
THE VISITOR August 2015 25
Childrens World
It's ideal for keeping children occupied on long journeys, whilst changing them or to let them have fun. The first design released worldwide is Paddington Bear, Boasting short sleeves, a relaxed fit and a playful cartoon print of a taxi with a tab underneath that when pulled reveals the friendly bear himself waving in the back seat, this magical 100% cotton tee is guaranteed to provide hours of fun. The Paddington Bear Toyshirt is available at M&CO for just £10 and available in sizes from 18mths to 5 years.
Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap
Office Equipment & Furniture Printer Inks and Toners Competitive Prices
FREE Local Delivery
BACK-TO-SCHOOL PROMOTIONS NOW AVAILABLE Stockists of Sheaffer, Parker, Lamy, Cross and Waterman Pens
One World
Childrens portraiture by Studio H of Wincanton.
The Visitor has three Toyshirts to give away. Just answer the following question. What does Paddington Bear like to eat? Answers by email to info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk by Friday 7th August (please include your child’s age).
A wide range of craft items are on sale too, such as card and artist materials - ideal to keep the children busy during the holidays.
Come rain or shine you will find something to keep the children amused at One World. There is a good choice of puppets - dragons, birds, animals, elves etc., plus finger puppets. New in is a selection of activitiy books to suit most ages. Marbles, chinese checkers, solitaire, chess and other traditional games can be found plus a variety of card games many of which are informative as well as fun!! Don't forget, there is a good choice of cards - including Christening cards, childrens birthday cards and stationery alway in stock.
The Visitor
cAn bE rEAd OnlinE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Midwest the Stationers
Now is the time to get all those back to school items ready for the new term - files, pens, paper and more - there are plenty of bargains to be had at Midwest the Stationers of Sherborne. New in - a range of pencil cases, books and other merchandise depicting super heroes / comic characters such as Marvel and Minions.
Call at our shop ...
21 Cheap Street, Sherborne Tel: 01935 814225 or visit our website ...
www.midwest-office.co.uk
Graham & Trixie Hiscock PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS • LBIPP
Specializing in newborns, mother & baby, and family portraiture – studio or home location WEDDINGS & EVENTS The Studio, West Hill, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9BY
01963 34189 / 07584 195311
17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166
26 THE VISITOR August 2015
These felt owls are fun to make! This is just one of many free patterns that Hanson’s have available for customers. All you need - felt, glue, stuffing and threads can all be purchased from Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts of Sturminster Newton. Call in and see the many crafts available.
Childrens World
KITCHENS AND HOUSE RENOVATIONS We project manage from start to finish!
UR MS O T O I VIS OWRO SH
Stylish kitchens to suit you
■ Contemporary or traditional ■ Wide choice of finishes including – high gloss, wood and painted ■ Free planning ■ Free design service A home study/office is an ideal work station for homework! An attractive and useful addition to any home that can be used by the whole family. For further details contact Sherborne Kitchens who can offer you a wide choice, plus free design and planning.
Study / Home Office Furniture
Working from home? Surfing the net? Do it in comfort and style ... with our “Home Office Design”
New Kitchen? House Renovation?
We project manage from start to finish! ■ Plan and design ■ Undertake the construction work ■ Install and fit units / appliances ■ Electrics ■ Plumbing ■ Plastering ■ Complete on time to a high standard O OU L INT C AL
Bluebird and Buttercup have a lovely choice of childens cotton nighties, pretty dresses, colourful tops, baby clothes and bunting - plus a host of gift ideas ideal for Christenings and birthdays. All products locally sourced. Do call in - find them in the George Shopping Centre.
GORGEOUS GIFTS FOR ALL Showcasing Local Designers and Artists Inspiration for Home & Garden Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm
Bluebird and Buttercup No. 4, The George Shopping Centre CREWKERNE, TA18 7LU Tel: 01460 77728 www.bluebirdandbuttercup.co.uk
R SHOWROOMS
TOD A
Y
SHERBORNE KITCHENS & HOUSE RENOVATIONS
The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel
Tel: 01935 817111
Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com www.sherbornekitchens.com THE VISITOR August 2015 27
Antiques, Vintage & Collecting
Lots of Zest Squeezes a Lemon Strainer to a Juicy Price
It proved to be the smaller pieces that made the biggest prices at Lawrences' auction of silver and vertu in Crewkerne recently. A pair of provincial apostle spoons depicting St. Peter and St. Simon Zelotes were made during the reign of James I and could be dated to c.1620-1630. These made £3050.
A small (16cm / 6in) pair of George I candlesticks by John Bignell (1723) were also bid to £3050 whilst a 19cm / 7.5in pair of Irish candlesticks by Jonathan Pasley of Dublin dated from c.1760 made double the low estimate at £2440. Staying across the Irish sea, a rare cream jug by
William Reynolds of Cork, c.1770, stood just 10cm / 4in high but also made £2440.
A rare early Victorian ‘castletop’ vinaigrette by the most celebrated maker of such items, Nathaniel Mills, depicted Chichester Cathedral on the cover. Smaller than a matchbox, this soared to £5850. Another ‘castletop’ case showing Trafalgar Square and Nelson's Column dated from 1848: this was 10cm / 4in long and met keen competition before selling for £7680. A rare novelty vesta case /match holder in the form of a roller skate was made by Jane Brownett in 1876 and rolled all the way to £2560.
Under New Ownership ...
CREWKERNE ANTIQUES & VINTAGE CENTRE
UNITS available to rent
... with 30 Dealers & 30 Display Cabinets Jewellery, Silver, Glass, Rocking Horses, China and an Extensive Range of Furniture ✿ GARDEN NOW OPEN ✿ Statues – Patio Sets – Benches – And More! ANTIQUES BOUGHT & SOLD Open: Monday – Saturday 9.30am - 4.30pm
A small collection of corkscrews comprised the final nine lots and ranged in price from £80 to £400 per lot but with one notable exception. Novelty and innovation are very desirable to collectors and lot 542 contained six small examples including a ‘Lund's patent’ corkscrew that extracted a corking bid of £3050. The day's top prices were paid for very dissimilar items: a 16.5cm / 6.5in modern Indian gold trophy bowl commemorating the ‘Tolly Gunge Races 1922’ was made by Messrs Cooke and Kelvey of Calcutta and raced ahead of the field to make £10490
16 MARKET STREET • CREWKERNE Tel: 01460 77111
English & French Country House Furniture
Decorative Items / Statement Pieces 6 Dealers Under One Roof ... over two floors Expect the Unexpected
STOCK CHANGING REGULARLY
14 Market Street • Crewkerne • TA18 7LA Tel: 01460 75500 • Email: carl@veryold.co.uk www.veryold.co.uk
28 THE VISITOR August 2015
whilst an elaborate but useful lemon strainer by Joseph Johns of Limerick (1740-1760) squeezed a dozen bidders to their limit before they were pipped by a private collector who was zesty enough to pay £17000.
CREWKERNE - a haven for antiques, vintage and collectibles!
Browsing at antiques and collectibles is a favourite pastime for many. Whether you’re a serious collector, or looking for furniture for your home, or perhaps seeking jewellery to give as a gift, Crewkerne is well worth a visit. In the town centre in Market Street is Crewkerne Antiques & Vintage Centre. Here you will find over 30 dealers offering a diverse range of items for sale. Under new ownership since March the centre has been given a new look. New arrivals include watches and clocks, railway memorabilia, quality jewellery and ceramics. In addition to the two floors there is an outside area with garden and reclamation items for sale. Next door is the newly opened Dekorative Kollective. Carl Hennessey has been in the antiques business for over 40 years in the South West with businesses in Beaminster and for the past 10 years, in Crewkerne. Carl has now opened in Market
Antique Fair
•
Chasty Cottage Antiques
•
Saturday 8th August
Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1 01963 370986 Future Date: Saturday 5th September www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk
Antiques, Vintage & Collecting under one roof offering silver, furniture, jewellery, life-style, shabby chic. It can all be found here! You can also enjoy a light lunch or afternoon tea in their delightful cafe. There’s ample free parking. Other antique/collectible
outlets in town include: Noah’s Antiques, Market Square, Harts, Church Street, Bardots and What Nots, West Street ... and Jimmer’s Antiques, currently displayed in Oscar’s Wine Bar, and whose shop will shortly be opening in Victoria Mews.
Milly’s - here you will find a good choice of smaller items including vintage jewellery, paintings, and glass. Stock changes regularly so do call in.
Street in the former Stuart Marsh Shoe Shop. This extensive premises means that in addition to Carl’s own antiques and collectibles he has been joined by other dealers to offer an eclectic and interesting mix over two floors, including interiors, industrial antiques and garden statues. Carl specializes in English and Country House Furniture together with some rather quirky items – currently a Victorian treadle lathe and a commercial table football table by Jacques!
So do call in – stock changes regularly and there is local free delivery. Milly’s Antiques & Vintage is conveniently situated in The George Shopping Centre next to the car park and Lidls. Heading towards the station out of town you will find Lawrences Auctioneers at The Linen Yard in South Street who hold regular, well attended auctions. Further on again is Antiques Bazaar in South Street. Here you will find over 95 traders
Antiques Bazaar, Crewkerne, a must for browsers and collectors of antiques alike.
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 – 1pm, Monday – Saturday
Tel: 01935 816072 • Mob: 07527 074343 HOME VISITS BY ARRANGEMENT
3 Westbury, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3EH
THE VISITOR August 2015 29
The New Bailey Chair from Sabichi!
Introducing the stunning new Bailey Chair in cool sky blue from Sabichi. Made to order and crafted in the UK using traditional methods, this elegant armchair offers a vintage
House & Home
inspired look and champions craftsman-ship, comfort and quality. Beautifully upholstered in soft pastel blue fabric, Bailey brightens up any room with its fresh and chic style. Boasting smart buttoning detail and a soft cushioned seat, it is completed with solid wooden feet in a walnut finish. Priced at £399, for more information visit www.sabichi. co.uk
Environ Communities are working with the local community in Freshford, Somerset, to develop the dilapidated Freshford Mill
Recent news on relaxed planning measures for brownfield sites makes the Freshford Mill
development particularly interesting, as plans to grant automatic planning permission means many more brownfield sites will soon be developed. With local councils not necessarily involved in decisions over use of these sites, local communities will be glad to hear of developers like Environ, who already go ‘above and beyond’ in their efforts to integrate with the local community. Freshford Mill (six miles southeast of Bath) has been a derelict site and an eyesore for the villagers and local walkers for years. As such, the local community are delighted that it is being renovated, and will once again become an important part of the village.
Need a new conservatory? Replacement windows or doors? contact
TURNER WINDOWS SOMERTON LTD – of –
■ ■ ■ ■ ■
FULL RANGE OF Replacement Windows Replacement Doors Conservatories Fascia / Soffitt / Guttering Secondary Glazing
SERVICES ... ■ Window Repairs ■ Handles / Hinges ■ Misted Up Units ■ Garage Doors ■ Blinds / Fly Screens
QUALITY PRODUCTS All products adhere to as endorsed by celebrity world snooker champion Steve Davis
PERSONAL SERVICE no faceless sales team: Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to the showrooms
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
PVC-U Aluminium
FENSA Registered Company sales@turnerwindows.co.uk www.turnerwindows.co.uk
30 THE VISITOR August 2015
“This installation is the best we have ever had. You did what it said on the tin. Your men started on time, your team of two (Jason and Alec) were courteous ... nothing was too much trouble ... took great care and left the house clean and tidy. We employ an assortment of tradesmen and there are only two or three that we would endorse. Welcome to the club.” – David & Pam Watts (February 2013) Just one of many testimonials from satisfied customers ★ See online for further personal recommendations
Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd
Call 01458 272555
Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB Today for a FREE no obligation quote
Comfortable Rise & Recline armchairs are not just for the elderly or infirm. Visit Sutton’s Stairlifts on the Anglo Trading Estate, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BY.
The development will be truly integrated from the start in the local community; the developers will be working closely with the Bath and North East Somerset Council, Freshford Parish Council and the local residents throughout the project. Environ Communities will renovate the Mill using local timber and stone to create 21 residential homes ranging from 2 bedroom apartments to 5 bedrooms houses.
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
ACF WINDOWS
ANDY FELTHAM
UPVC REPLACEmEnT windOws, dOORs, COnsERVATORiEs, wOOdEn FRAmEd windOws, FAsCiA BOARds, CLAdding, gUTTERing, ALUminiUm windOws & dOORs ETC.
The Old Well House Shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GILLINGHAM, Dorset SP8 5HX Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344
The development is surrounded on two sides by a river and the area which is popular with walkers is teeming with wildlife and birds. As part of the scheme Environ are creating a nature reserve (for use by the local school
House & Home
and residents), a lake and orchard. Nick Stevens, Chairman, Freshford Parish Council says: The Council is delighted that the Mill has been purchased by Environ and that for the first
time in years the opportunity now exists for the development to be both improved and then completed. We look forward to working alongside Environ and wholly support the wish of the Company to work in close collaboration with local residents. In this way we are all able to contribute to the process and it should go a long way towards ensuring that the finished development quickly becomes an integral part of the village and one of which we can all be proud. For further information visit: environcommunities.com / 01225 864429.
Logs4fuel
New from Janome - Memory Craft 8900QCP special edition sewing machine featuring: 280mm (11in) Large Arm Space, 9mm Stitch Width, Easy Set bobbin system, New button hole foot with stabilizer, extension table and cover included £1,999. Just one of the many sewing machines available from Hanson’s Fabrics of Sturminster Newton. Call in and see their full range.
Sandpits Heating Centre at Curry Rivel has been supplying fuel in the form of logs, coal and gas for over 40 years and is now able to offer a wider range over a nationwide area through their website: www.logs4fuel.co.uk Logs4fuel can offer a selection of Kiln Dried wood sourced from sustainable woodland and ready to use. Seasoned wood cut locally and air dried to less than 20% (MC), Coal and smokeless fuel
and Gas (Flogas – bottles). With competitive delivery prices (free to some local areas) Logs4fuel hope to offer a complete service to fuel your woodburner, open or gas fire.
A Place For Everything & Everything In It's Place
Wicker has made a welcome comeback in recent years and has become a popular addition to kitchens, bathrooms and living areas. DesResDesign has a popular wicker basket collection and is always on the hunt for new shapes. They source their wicker baskets from many corners of the globe, looking for great aesthetics combined with high quality wicker that lasts and stays looking good - values that matter at DesResDesign. The term ‘wicker’ actually refers to the making technique rather than the raw material wicker can actually be made from many different things including rush, seagrass water hyacinth, jute and rattan. Wicker has also been documented as far back as ancient Egypt, and throughout
THE VISITOR August 2015 31
House & Home
the ages has played a really important role in the history of mankind. As well as being beautiful to look at, it has organic qualities (smell, texture) that bring the outdoors inside, and it's so very versatile. Perfect storage for logs, linen, cushions, childrens
toys, laundry, boots and shoes. With wicker you can keep a home tidy and decluttered whilst maintaining a rustic relaxed feel. Perfect for planting shrubs and trees. In the home or in the garden, wicker just works - which is why we all love it!
Harriet Sandys SUMMER BAZAAR 2015
New Collection of: Oriental rugs, carpets and runners Colourful pin-tuck kaftan tops for late summer holidays Smart indigo block printed Kantha jackets Applique bedspreads and cushions Men’s sleeveless tweed waistcoats from Kashmir Carved wood furniture from the North West Frontier Tribal jewellery, table lamps and block print bedspreads Sale bargains too!
Sat 29th, Sun 30th & Mon 31st August, 2pm – 5pm Also open by appointment
The Barn at Manor House, West Compton Shepton Mallet, BA4 4PB For directions: www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk
Tel: 01749 890582 • Credit /debit cards accepted
August prize is a 3' Bentley Design Atlanta White bedstead and Diamond sprung mattress worth £200
32 THE VISITOR August 2015
House & Home
Smooth and sleek, this contemporary kitchen from Intoto Kitchens, Yeovil.
SEWING MACHINE SERVICE CENTRE Repairs & Servicing To All Makes - Domestic & Industrial Collection and Delivery Available
Embroidery Engineering Services
Suppliers of Computerised Embroidery Machines
Telephone: 01963 350068 • Mobile: 07947 725315 Email: robert_churches@hotmail.com UNIT 8, TORBAY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE CASTLE CARY BA7 7DW
Unit 11, Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JX
Tel: 01747 826714
www.townandcountryaerials.co.uk
Get the most from your Smart TV
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
We can help with ...
Smart TV connection / networking
TV aerial & satellite dishes - supplied, installed, repaired Extra points
Commercial installation - multipoints e.g. flats, holiday parks, care homes, etc. Experienced engineers
Work in conservation areas, listed buildings, etc. We cover your area ...
YEOVIL – SHERBORNE – WINCANTON GILLINGHAM etc.
Your local Sky expert THE VISITOR August 2015 33
Due to their elegant shape and curves these wicker baskets look beautiful simply grouped together. They look equally great potted up or holding rolled up towels. The large wicker basket pictured right is perfect for storing logs or toys and will also make a fabulous planter. It comes with industrial style wheels which give it a contemporary edge and handles making it ideal for
moving easily around. The basket comes with a removable jute liner, brilliant for collecting log mess or lining for a plant. The very high quality means the baskets can be used inside or out. The quality is excellent, made with thick strips of woven wicker with smooth edges. It’s rather lovely to look at and very strong. Wicker featured can be found at www.desresdesign.co.uk
Delia from the Joy collection
The Joy fabric collection by JAB Anstoetz brings together bold colours, cool textures and expressive designs. Try the delighful Delia to create a fun floral touch. Bright floral embroidery romantically creeps over this natural cotton base, creating a chic and bold look. Designed in three bright colour ways, Delia triumphs a playful palette, skilled detailing and stylish quality. Fabric width 145cm. Priced from £73 per metre. For more information: www.jab-uk.co.uk
Chameleon
Over 20 displays on view in our showrooms ... Bedrooms Kitchens Home Office ■ FREE design service ensuring best use of space ■ Extensive choice
■ Excellent quality – sensible pricing ■ Traditional and modern styling
■ A family-run business
“Transform your home” with ...
bedrooms • kitchens • home office
5 & 6 Bancombe Court, Bancombe Road Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB
Tel: 01458 272699
steve@chameleonbk.co.uk • www.chameleonbk.co.uk AMPLE FREE PARKING
34 THE VISITOR August 2015
for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, sutton, ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221
Bryan G. Paulley Ltd Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements
Plastic / metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / moving / disposal Above or Below ground Tanks
Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 office@halletsfarm.fsnet.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk
FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —
All works completed by our experienced and reliable team
Services Include but not limited to: Project Management ★ New Build Planning ★ Loft Conversions Carpentry ★ Roofing Ground Works ★ Refurbishment Renovation ★ Commercial Property Maintenance ★ Joinery
All aspects of Building & Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken
Contact us for a free estimate
(01935) 823346
www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Going away on holiday? BE SECURE with ...
CHECKLIST (cut out and keep)
Delia from the Joy fabric collection by JAB Anstoetz, available in three colourways.
This curved television, TX55CR430, is currently on display in Godden & Curtis in Sherborne and is priced at £1,449.
Is your home secure? 3 COUNTY LOCKSMITHS offer a free no obligation security check.
Elderberry Blossom by Kerry Darlington, mixed media with resin, unique edition of 295, image size 9” x 24”, framed size 17” x 32”. Silver frame with white slip, framed price £595. Available from Martock Gallery, Martock.
The Visitor
CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
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THE VISITOR August 2015 35
Summer Fizz for Everyone
WITH THE school holidays about to begin, in addition to seeking out the sun, many of us will be off to sample the customs and culinary delights offered by foreign countries near and far. It would of course be churlish not to sample the local wine to go with, but there will also be those among us that will not have the opportunity to travel, or may prefer to stay closer to home, saving the pennies for more pressing matters. With this in mind, along with the promise of some fine weather, the opportunity to eat and drink outside, whether in your own garden, the park, or a nearby beach, is something not to be missed. The dilemma remains though of how to accommodate one’s own preference for a refreshing little alcoholic tipple, whilst satisfying the children’s constant desire for something fizzy and sweet, without resorting to expensive shop bought brands loaded with sugar or, even worse,
Wine & Dine
chemicals. Fortunately the height of the summer is also the season when we can enjoy the bounty of luscious ripe fruits which, when pureed, can provide the perfect thirst quencher when topped up with chilled Prosecco or Cava. For younger members of the family, and also the duty driver, sparkling water, lemonade or ginger ale will provide the ideal abstemious alternative to make these unusual drinks. Better still, have on offer a number of different fruit purees and garnishes so that they can concoct their own. Serve in some stylish glasses and decorate with paper umbrellas, a fancy straw and a twizzle stick and it won’t take much effort to imagine yourself in some exotic sun-drenched location. All of the following will serve 4 and are best served well chilled or over crushed ice, topped up with the bubbles of your choice. Although not necessary, I prefer
FARM SHOPS AND LOCAL PRODUCE
Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton
Enjoy freshly harvested ...
Bunched Carrots, Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower Courgettes, Salad Leaves and Runner Beans HOME GROWN STRAWBERRIES Ham Hill and Perry’s Ciders Yeovil Ales COFFEE SHOP ... come and enjoy tea, coffee (from Read’s Coffee of Sherborne) and a slice of locally made cake
FOLLOW OUR PAGE ON FACEBOOK
01935 827743 • www.bowerhintonfarmshop.co.uk
to sieve the puree to give a smoother drink. Fruit puree frozen into ice cubes, with a piece of fruit in the centre, also works well to add a bit of interest to any drink, as can moistening the rim of the glass and dipping it into coloured sugar to give it the ultimate pizzazz. Quantities and levels of sweetness can be adjusted to suit individual tastes, and at a push these can be made with tinned unsweetened fruit, but drain well before blending.
Watermelon and Mint Lemonade
Remove the rind, de-seed and blend ¼ of a large watermelon with 1 tbsp. honey and a sprig of fresh mint. Garnish with mint and cubes of watermelon skewered onto cocktail sticks. If making it for a crowd buy a large watermelon and use the hollowed out shell to serve it in. (With the addition of Tequila, this also makes a fabulously posh summer dinner party soup, when served with julienne strips of the mint and watermelon).
Strawberry and Pink Grapefruit Crush
Blend one small punnet of strawberries with the juice of a pink grapefruit, adding honey, sugar or other sweetener to taste. Garnish with a strawberry or two.
Merry Berry Mimosas
Mix together two parts chilled freshly squeezed orange juice to one part cranberry juice. Garnish with orange slices and a cherry.
and add a squeeze of lemon juice. This also works well with apricots or nectarines.
Rhubarb, Raspberry and Ginger Kicker
Take four stems of fresh rhubarb and chop into 1 inch long pieces. Put into a microwaveable bowl with ¼ pt. of apple juice. Cover and microwave until soft, about 2 mins. Allow to cool then blend with one small punnet of raspberries and two pieces of crystallised stem ginger.
Gooseberry and Elderflower Punch
Put one small punnet of ripe gooseberries into a microwaveable bowl with ¼ pt. elderflower cordial. Cover and microwave until soft, about 2 mins. Allow to cool before blending.
Beetroot and Blackcurrant Burst
Blend one small punnet of blackcurrants with one small cooked beetroot and a tsp. of honey.
I was inspired to make this by the recent discovery of Tetley’s latest addition to their herbal tea offerings, a blend of blackcurrant and beetroot. There are now any number of interesting herbal tea blends on offer, which would give an interesting take on the traditional Iced Tea much loved by our American cousins.
Festival Tropical Temptation
Blend together 2 star fruit, with the pulp of one fresh ripe mango and 4 passion fruit. Garnish with a wedge of lime.
Peach and Pineapple Passion
Take 2 fresh ripe peaches, and blend with half a ripe pineapple,
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36 THE VISITOR August 2015
Mobile: 07785 550086 Tel: 01935 840368
Merry Berry Mimosa Cocktail.
The
Pub Pages
B EER & S KI TTL ES P. A. BAXTER
WHO REMEMBERS when almost every pub had a public bar and a lounge bar? The days when this was the norm seem to be long behind us and whilst I recall greeting the trend of one huge open plan with metaphorical open arms at the time, I wonder now if it was such a good idea. Muddy boots, dogs and less-than-smart dress was always the order of the day for the public bar, and the beer was even a few pence cheaper. Needless to say it was expected that one should dress a little smarter in the lounge. It was also a good way to separate
those who perhaps didn't quite see eye-to-eye, or perhaps one was on a date with that special person, or even perhaps there was a band playing in one bar that was not your cup of tea. Many of the places where I and my contemporaries visited in the early days of our drinking career had this option, and we may have enjoyed visiting one 'side' whereas at another pub it could be the other bar. Indeed, it was good to have the choice. Now virtually every pub we visit is open plan - included in that can oft be an eating/restaurant area as well. This means that there is no escape from those that one would perhaps not like to mix with - and unfortunately, I note the increasing amount of 'army language' that to some might be considered acceptable in mixed company, but which does not include myself or any other members of the Baxter crew. This isn't to say I'm not a guilty party when it comes to the odd profanity or two, but as I was brought up to believe that 'there is a time and a place for everything' and in my humble opinion, the middle of a pub crowded with all ages and both sexes is not the place. Here ends the little rant for this month...! How did I come to sound off in the previous paragraph you may ask? Well, the Baxter crew took a
trip to a pub which was quite recently reopened after a long period of closure. A major refurbishment under new ownership made the ambience much more welcoming, the staff too, were much more pleasant and helpful, however, the way the owners failed to admonish the behaviour of some of the clientele
was noteworthy, particularly as a large family party were present and very clearly made to feel awkward by the perpetrators. Furthermore I won't be mentioning the over-priced food. Hence this establishment will remain on our NOT recommended list. I wonder how many of my readership drink 'Bud'? Not many
EXCITING NEW SUMMER MENU Including Pan Fried Sea Bass
with Garlic & Saffron Risotto and Smoked Chicken, Bacon & Mango Salad ... and more! 2 Course LUNCHES £8.95 Tuesday to Saturday Wednesday & Thursday Special
SURF, TURF, SWINE and WINE NIGHT ...
TWO Rump STEAKS or TWO Beer Battered HADDOCK or TWO Gammon STEAKS or ANY TWO with a CARAFE of WINE £22.50 per couple • Booking Advised
★ SUNDAY ROASTS ★
ROYAL OAK Chris & Jill look forward to welcoming you at the ...
Over Stratton, South Petherton Tel: 01460 240906
A Charming Country Inn
THE VISITOR August 2015 37
The
Pub Pages
I would think, but if you do, following on from last month where we give the formula for working out a cost per pint I was staggered
to see a pub where this stuff was being sold at £3.95. Oh yes, those consuming it did their best to look cool as it was swigged from the bottle, but in my opinion one does not look so cool when one is furnished with the knowledge that this works out at £6.79 for a pint. Still think it's worth it? No, me neither. It's been a mainly pleasant few weeks since we last met, as far as pub visits are concerned. Two which stand out, and are in complete contrast to each other are firstly 'The Volunteer' at Seavington St Michael, and secondly 'The Crown' in
The MUDDLED
MAN
Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to
Lower Street, West Chinnock A charming country inn serving home cooked fayre lunchtime & evening
GOOD BEER GUIDE
Relax in our attractive gardens – REAL ALES –
Sunday Lunch £7.95 Fresh Fish Day Friday Steak Special: Two 8oz Rump Steaks £16.50 Sunday to Thursday DAILY SPECIALS • SKITTLE ALLEY • ACCOMMODATION
Tel: 01935 881235
THE CASTLE INN —— Freehouse ——
Sherborne. Situated on the old A303, the 'Volly' as it is known locally, not only serves fine pub grub as cooked by Landlady Ruth, but serves a variety of beers, some from abroad as well as real ales, the latter being brewed on the premises by Landlord Colin. On our first visit I sampled their stout, which surprisingly was not to my taste, although it was to my partner that night. However, the pint of 'Tornado' was, and I can say with some confidence, it was the best pint I had been served for some months - and I don't say that sort of thing lightly! Why the 'Tornado' name you may ask? Well the brewery owned and operated by Colin is named the 'Windy Brewery'. We were fortunate that evening to be able to have a good long chat with Colin who was more than willing
to 'talk beer'. Clearly a man who is dedicated to his craft and who, it soon became readily apparent, will not sit on his laurels and continues on that quest to be able to turn out the 'perfect pint'. The pub might seem a little out of the way, but is actually easy to find and is worth doing so especially as the Ilminster by-pass takes the majority of the traffic away. Many pubs that serve real ale have the local CAMRA magazine for patrons to take away. At the 'Volly' this would be 'Pints of View' being the Somerset branch publication, however somewhat mysteriously, a very grand publication from the Slough Windsor and Maidenhead branch - 'Camra Angle' - had appeared there. My friend, being from that area, immediately thumbed through it, gravitating to a page
The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH
BEER FESTIVAL
Sunday 30th August 2.30pm – 5.30pm
Large Beer Gardens
LIVE MUSIC • BBQ • OPEN ALL DAY from 12noon
Skittle Alley
SUNDAY ROAST: £7.95 Saturday Steak Night: 2 Steaks + Bottle of Wine £22.50
North Cadbury 01963 441531
Jo & Staff welcome you to ...
Bank Holiday Monday 31st August High Street • WEST
COKER • BA22 9AT
SUNDAY CARVERY 12noon – 4pm
2 Courses £12: Choice of TWO Meats, Beef + Another with Fresh Veg’ and Homemade Sweet e.g. Sherry Trifle, Bread & Butter Pud, Chocolate Torte ... (booking advised)
Steak Special Wednesday – Saturday TWO 8oz Sirloin Steaks and a Bottle of Wine ... or TWO Draught Pints £25 NEW Light Bites – Lunchtime Menu Freshly Filled Baguettes, Salads, Jackets, etc.
Scrumpy Western ~ AND~
~ PARTY~
LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY
From 12noon with 3 country bands Blazing Saddles, Duo Trail, and topping the bill The Mangled Wurzels, 6pm – 9pm
FOOD ALL DAY
BBQ & Hog Roast + Outside Cider Bar FREE ENTRY EVERYBODY WELCOME
Chef’s Daily Specials Board
Senior Citizen Lunch Wednesday – Friday £5.95
Function Room Available F.O.C. Weddings, Christenings etc.
OPEN ALL DAY FROM NOON Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday • Closed Monday & Tuesday
Tel: 01935 862331
www.the-castle-inn-westcoker.co.uk
Patio Skittles Ample Parking Free Pool Real Ales Free wifi
38 THE VISITOR August 2015
Corton Denham, Sherborne, Somerset, DT9 4LR Email: relax@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com 01963 220317
Come and try this award winning inn! Taste of Somerset Best Pub 2013 • Best National Freehouse 2012 2 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
where a beer festival was being announced in Datchet Village Hall, where he and his wife had their wedding reception some 45 years ago! Our second visit happened to be on a Tuesday, when the local event at the 'Volly' is a 'bread and cheese' night. One of the local chaps is elected to make the bread, and others bring in cheese. Brilliant - great idea! As mere visitors we were nonetheless invited to help ourselves - many thanks to all at the 'Volly' for your hospitality. Not being a fan of screens in pubs (which I am sure you have, dear reader, realised by now) but being a fan of the occasional live music in our wonderful hostelries, I could not help but notice a large sign outside 'The Crown' in Sherborne. Whilst open mic nights may not be liked by everyone, we felt a visit for a look and listen was in order, and a pal who is an accomplished performer was keen to come along. The evening was more jazz-orientated to start with, which is not particularly to my taste, but I was impressed that there was a goodly line up of other talent willing to do their bit. There was certainly a good atmosphere, and a long chat with Ian Blackmore gave me a good insight to his philosophy in the way a pub should be run. Both he and his lady wife Marilyn are very experienced in the trade, and coincidentally, Ian tells me they had owned and run 'The Volunteer'! They had also owned 'The Britannia' in Sherborne, which I believe is now a Thai restaurant. Taking over a (closed) 'Crown' about 18 months ago they had a considerable amount of work to do, not least of which was to give the pub a good reputation, which from what I understand had slumped badly over a number of years. This was apart from a major refurbishment, and I think, although the look is more contemporary than traditional, it now has a welcoming
feel to it that was definitely lacking previously. Beers at this establishment are from St Austell brewery, and we were blown away by the prices. We had a couple pints of 'Trelawney', at an amazingly £2.70! Moreover, later in the evening another of St Austell's fine products came on at a mere £2.40. When was the last time you had a pint at that price? The quality is also excellent and Ian tells me he jealously guards the beer cellar and NO-ONE else is allowed near it! Hopefully we can give the food a try soon, and I wish them continuing good fortune. So there it is; if you have a talent you feel is worth airing, then Ian and Marilyn will be pleased to see you on the last Wednesday of the month, although I have no doubt that they will be pleased to see you at any time! Sadly, neither of these pubs have a skittle alley, however, the layout of each means that they cannot be referred to as fully 'open plan', which to us is a big plus in their favour which means we will definitely be back again.
AROUND THE
H O U S E S
IN BRUTON ... Truffles Brasserie are contributing a recipe to the forthcoming Taste of The West Cook Book out in September ... get sociable on a Thursday at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague with their Tear & Share evening ... book your stall for the annual charity Christmas Fair to be held on the 5th December at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham ... it’s 2 for 1 on Grills on Friday at The Mildmay Arms, Queen
Camel and where there’s live music 4pm - 8pm on the new patio every Sunday including No Fixed Abode (2nd) & Ross Kirk (9th) ... enjoy the wonderful gardens at The Camelot Inn, South Cadbury ... and at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury you’ll find tasty Sunday Lunches. Nipping on to Norton Sub Hamdon where Helen at The Lord Nelson recently enjoyed a ‘splash of Lyme’ ... we look forward to welcoming new hosts at The Cat Head Chiselborough ... the recent live music and hog roast went down a storm at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock where Jean and Mick are suitably refreshed after their hols ... Firkin
Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week Food Now Served All Day Saturday & Sunday
Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley
TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink
Dinnington, Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397
Have you discovered the Ample Parking
Attractive Gardens
A welcoming village Freehouse & Restaurant Serving delicious freshly prepared local produce Lunches Evening Meals Daily Specials Fresh Fish Traditional Sunday Roasts
Function Room available for private parties / weddings Visit our website for the latest menus
No food served on Sunday evening, nor all day Monday and Tuesday Barrington Court
Just a stones throw from
Barrington Boar, Barrington, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 0JB Tel: 01460 259281 Email: barringtonboar@outlook.com • www.barringtonboar.co.uk
The CROWN Inn
Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EP LIVE MUSIC Every Wednesday
Sunday Lunch – £8.95
Thursday Night STEAK SPECIAL
2 Rump Steaks and a Bottle of Wine ...
£25
Delicious food served daily – lunchtimes & evenings
Tel: 01935 816115
The
Lord Nelson Rectory Lane
Norton Sub Hamdon
Mark, Helen and staff welcome you to ‘The Nelson’
GOOD FOOD – GOOD BEER – GREAT ATMOSPHERE
Thursday Evenings Special ...
Paella & Sangria £14
Traditional ★ Meat Only ★ Fish Only ★ Vegetarian Saturday 1st August – DELTA TANGOS
Sunday 16 th August, 3.30pm – NO FIXED ABODE Sunday 30 th August – BOOTLEG BLONDIE
MID-WEEK LUNCHTIME SPECIAL 2 Courses for only £8 Monday – Friday Lunchtime
COURTYARD BEER GARDEN AT REAR AMPLE PARKING OPEN ALL DAY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY
GLUTEN ES H FREE DISBLE AVAILA
Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.biz
THE VISITOR August 2015 39
They Say
That Managing Director Mike Pollard of Mike Pollard Tours of Yeovil, has omitted one of his most valued customers on his trip to Scarborough and Northampton. That Philip ‘Optimistic’ Oram of Yeovil has been seen feeding the pigeons in Trafalgar Square he has also been attacked by a swan - and the Canaries are out of the question.
That birthday girl Lin Penn of Shepton Mallet - should realize getting older is not all bad news - the more years, the more candles - the more cake!!! Have a good one - firebrigade on standby! When a certain lady walks from West Park to Castle Cary town centre she takes a pair of secateurs with her in her handbag, to cut the overgrown hedges and brambles she encounters on the way.
That the White Hart in Castle Cary is now taking part in the new film of Jaws.
That swashbuckling Petula White of Steanbow, whilst dashing in a bandana, found the eyepatch a step too far.
That being named ‘Biscuit’ the new arrival at the Lamb & Lark in Limington has caused great confusion - and much disappointment for the other canine residents.
That unfortunately for Rob Penn of Shepton Mallet there has been a shortage of tasty tarts available this month.
That you can get a pint of ‘boom boom’ at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton - and if you have to ask - you're too young!
That John Penny of Bradford Abbas abhors lateness. So much so that he is always early, sometimes as much as 24 hours. Well, you never know!
That in Crewkerne your pet pooch can now have its toe nails painted whilst being groomed!
That Tiger Woods needed a SatNav to find his way around St. Andrew’s.
That Yeovil's Ben paparazzi Sweet is very photogenic allegedly.
That a certain Visitor now recognises the glamour landlady of Norton Sub Hamdon.
That Lea Titchmarsh Sweet of Yeovil is a budding tomato grower. That thanks to the skills of South Petherton's Mo Cutler - at least one of her friends will be able to breathe more easily.
40 THE VISITOR August 2015
Pete Lambden & Staff welcome you to .....
168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL
“Why wait any longer for the world to begin You can have your cake and eat it too”
FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink. Last month Sarah Broom was first to tell me it was Simon and Garfunkel, “Homeward Bound”. Greetings pop pickers, we had a couple of nice parties during the month. On the 10th a young couple by the name of Carl and Erica tied the knot and became Mr and Mrs. We had a fantastic time with an all-day family wedding party. Congratulations to you two. Well done! James Cockram celebrated his 40th birthday here in style. He booked a fabulous band, invited all his friends put on a nice bit of grub and had a blast! Next month we have got quite a bit on so I had better tell you all about it. On Friday the 7th we have a band called Utter Chaos performing for the first time at The Quick! O n t h e 11 t h w e h a v e o u r r e s i d e n t M e d i u m , M a rc u s entertaining us with a special Evening of Spirit. On the 14th Mark Venus and Onika will be here again with their own fabulous brand of music to keep us entertained. Mutter Slater and his band will be here on the 28th. On Sunday 30th we are planning on having a Families Day in the garden (weather permitting) - hog roast, bouncy castle, bit of music, etc. We will be hoping to raise some funds for the hospice on that day, so get yourself and the family here. It starts at 2pm . And to round off what I hope will be a super bank holiday Sunday we have STORM playing live in the function room during the evening. It’s a FREE GIG so get your face in the place!! And finally: a chap goes into the doctors with a carrot in his ear, a potato up his nose and cabbage in his hair. The doctor says “I can see you’ve not been eating properly”. TOOT TOOT!!!
BOOKINGS
01935 424721
Fox summer ale at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton boom! boom! ... Nordic cuisine evening at The New Farm Restaurant on 6th August ... join in the weekly online caption competition at The Brewers, South Petherton ... Real Ale still only £3 a pint at The Wyndham Arms Huish Episcopi ... and in Barrington enjoy a tasty Seared Tuna Steak at The Barrington Boar. Limping on to Limington we find the outside catering and Hog Roasts are proving popular at The Lamb & Lark where they have just received a tripadvisor winner award ... enjoy a Sunday Carvery
at The Castle Inn, West Coker followed by a homemade pud ... check out the live music at The Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil, as well as their delicious food menu - with a side helping of Pete’s wit and charm! ... The Castlebrook Inn, Compton Dundon have a beer festival, fun for all the family, 28th-30th August ... live music every Wednesday at The Crown Inn, Sherborne ... and Opera comes to The Grange at Oborne this August. Finally ... don't forget, we will be out in time for you to promote all your Bank Holiday Happenings in the next issue.
Lamb & Lark Russell & Diane welcome you to the INN KEEPING AT ITS BEST
Limington nr. Ilchester • BA22 8EG Tel: 01935 840368
Saturday 1st August Charity Music Night & Hog In aid of Childrens’ Hospice South West
Roast
Raffle • Bucking Bronco • Country & Western Duo • Disco £10 per ticket ... to include music and hog roast Wednesday 12 th August Steak
Thursday 20 th August
Night Barbecue • Thursday 27 th August Curry Night
Let us drive you: ask about our MINI BUS HIRE service HOG ROAST & OUTSIDE CATERING
www.lambandlark.co.uk Visit our website for full details
The
Wyndham Arms
KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK SOMERSET TA12 6AT
A delightful recently refurbished country pub OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY
Delicious HOME-COOKED FOOD served lunchtimes & evenings New SUMMER MENU now available! Traditional SUNDAY ROAST choice of 2 meats Why not enjoy your meal alfresco ... in our LARGE GARDEN?
Sunday 30th August LIVE MUSIC 4pm ‘til 7pm Alan Drew – guitar / vocalist
Rob & Lin Rigby and Marly the Dog look forward to welcoming you
Tel: 01935 823239
Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com to see full menu details
SHEP TON MONTAGUE, SOMERSET RELAX AND ENJOY THE STUNNING VIEWS ACROSS THE COUNTRYSIDE TO ALFREDS TOWER FROM OUR TERRACE ...
Steak Night Every Monday Ribeye, Pork Loin or Salmon with Salad & Fries for only £10 per head JAZZ in the Garden with the Bell Street Jazz Band Sunday 16th August 1pm – 3pm MUSIC FESTIVAL now Saturday 19th September ... headliner to be confirmed 5pm – Midnight
Simple Supper Every Tuesday Delicious 2 Course Set Menu for only £10 per head
Starting Thursday 6th August Thursday Tear and Share Night pizza and stuff to share ... groups of 1 to infinity
The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 8JW Telephone: 01749 813213 • Email: info@themontagueinn.co.uk • www.themontagueinn.co.uk
THE VISITOR August 2015 41
Pamper your Pet
OWNING A PET is not a responsibility to be taken lightly. I’m sure you have all seen the stickers ‘A pet is not just for Christmas’. Food, veterinary bills, pet insurance and kennel expenses if you are going away can all add up, but without doubt, caring for a pet offers many
health benefits. For example, the average domestic dog or cat can also provide an array of mental and physical health benefits. Dogs particularly can ease loneliness, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promote social interaction, encourage exercise and playfulness, and provide
Dog tired of high prices?
CROSSROADS PET SUPPLIES VISIT
SUPPLIERS OF
• 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 .
unconditional love and affection. Caring for a dog can help children grow up more secure and active and provide companionship for older adults. Perhaps most importantly though, a dog or cat can add real joy to any human life.
Crossroads Pet Supplies
Have you discovered Crossroads? Situated on the Yeovil to Sherborne road this pet shop is packed from floor to ceiling hutches and cages, toys and leads, beds and bowls, seeds and shampoos! All can be found here. Whether you like to feed the wild birds, have a pet hamster or own a pony you can get all your animal feeds from Crossroads.
Why not call in? There is ample free parking right outside the door - ideal if you are purchasing food in bulk.
James Wellbeloved
James Wellbeloved makes naturally healthy complete cat, dog and ferret food. Proudly made in their own factory in Castle Cary, Somerset, all their foods are naturally hypo-allergenic and
Passing dogs are much appreciative of the bowl of water thoughtfully provided by Brunel Pet Centre in Somerton. For a host of pet foods and accessories pop in and see proprietor Karen, pictured.
Brunel Pet Centre 5a Brunel Shopping Precinct
SOMERTON
• many Brands of dog and Cat Food stocked • small Animal Food & Treats • Toys and Accessories • wild Bird Food - well priced • Friendly service • Orders welcome
01458 274980
PetWood
PET FOOD SUPPLIES For Dogs, Cats, Small Animals, Fish Aviary, Wild Birds & Poultry, Exotic Pets Toys, Hutches & Accessories Competitive Prices - Delivery Available
Little Wings Including ...
LICENSED PET SHOP Bird & Small Animal Specialists
01935 825868
Follow us on facebook Unit 5, North Street Great Western Road, Martock
42 THE VISITOR August 2015
Free Parking Outside
Pamper your Pet are half the size of a grain of rice. The chip barcode is registered on a database. A found animal can be scanned, identified and reunited with the owner. Vets, animal charities and the dog warden will scan any lost animals which are brought to them. By law from April 2016 all dogs must be microchipped, and owners must keep contact details up to date. Microchipping your animal gives you peace of mind.
A Loggerhead Musk Turtle - just one of many unusual pets available from Repxotics of Shepton Mallet.
balanced, and contain all the nutrients your pet needs throughout their life. They’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to. Each of their foods contains a single source of meat protein – turkey, lamb, duck or fish. So, for example in their turkey variant, they use JUST turkey – turkey will be the only animal protein contained in that bag of food, right down to the tasty turkey gravy and tasty turkey fat. By having only one meat protein per variant it makes their food naturally hypo-allergenic, which means it has a reduced risk of any adverse food reactions like flatulence, runny poo and itchy skin and coat. James Wellbeloved is not just for dogs and cats with sensitivities though: it is a perfectly balanced healthy food for all dogs and cats. Just try it and see the difference Want to find out more? Call their free nutrition advice helpline on 0845 603 or visit www.wellbeloved.com for information and stockist finder to find a store near you.
for a family pet or aviary bird this is a place not to be missed. Pop over to their Facebook page and see their excellent reviews. Louise has been breeding and handrearing birds for 20 years. This little shop has now been open a year and the reviews are amazing. Expert advice is on hand at Petwood and Little Wings which is open Monday to Friday 9.30am till 5pm and Saturday 9.30am till 4pm.
Isle Valley Vets
A microchip is a small chip implanted under the skin of an animal. At Isle Valley Vets they have inserted chips into dogs, cats, tortoises and rabbits as well as horses, ponies and donkeys. They use minichips for pets which
Delaware Veterinary Group
Delaware Veterinary Group will be at this year’s Mid Somerset Show on Sunday 16th August in Shepton Mallet. Their stand (R10) which can be found in the Upper Showfield will represent all the areas of expertise that the practice provides, from small furries to cattle and horses. With their own staff on hand to answer your questions and refreshments and games too, find them, meet the team and have some fun.
Somerset’s leading retailer of reptiles & amphibians
Tortoises • Snakes • Lizards Frogs • Spiders • Invertebrates OPEn On sUndAYs 10am – 4pm Tuesday to saturday 9.30am – 5pm Closed Mondays Extensive Range of Cold Water & Tropical Fish + Accessories
Repxotics, 17 Town Street SHEPTON MALLET BA4 5BE
www.repxotics.co.uk
Telephone 01749 938082
Dedicated to excellence in animal care for over 100 years
Small Animal, Farm & Equine
★ 24 Hour Emergency Service provided by our own staff ★ and Healthy Pet and Equine Zone Schemes available CASTLE CARY 01963 350307 YEOVIL 01935 474690 info@delawarevets.co.uk • www.delawarevets.co.uk
Petwood & Little Wings
P e t wo od is on Nort h st reet Martock and has all you need for your family pet with a comprehensive range of leading brands including James Wellbeloved, Royal Canin, Burns and much more. They have a super range of collars, leads, toys and health products. Pop in and treat your waggie-tailed friend to a super new toy. Little Wings is on the first floor of Petwood and if you are looking
THE VISITOR August 2015 43
Pets
GARDENING
GARDENING MONTHLY by Richard Cumming
Bearing Fruit!
Inside Mane Event Saddlery & Pet Supplies at Pylle, near Shepton Mallet, who are well known for their equestrian supplies. They are now pleased to offer a full range of domestic pet food and supplies too. Find them next door to Jon Thorner’s Farm Shop.
They look forward to seeing you there! Tel: 01963 350307 Castle Cary, 01935 474690 Yeovil. Email: info@delawarevets.co.uk Web: www.delawarevets.co.uk
Home from Home
If you are away on holiday having a good time you want to know that your family pooch is in safe hands at home and having a good time too! Home from Home for dogs is aptly named – situated a few miles from Castle Cary, Home
from Home offers excellent accommodation for your pet – living in the house as part of the family whilst also having plenty of fresh air and exercise in large secure grounds outside. Owned and run by Connie Card you can leave your dogs knowing that they will be well looked after. Any length of stay is available from just a half day through to weeks. References are available, Home from Home is fully insured, vet approved and licensed through SSDC. Telephone 01963 240650.
HOME FROM HOME FOR YOUR DOG
Let your Dog come and stay with us when you go on holiday, for a day, a week, or longer dog friendly family home, constant attention & supervision space available for exercise and long walks REFERENCES AVAILABLE
For more details please call Connie Card
01963 240650
MANE EVENT SADDLERY AND PET SUPPLIES
From hamster to horse ... we can supply your needs
Unit 5A • Stockwood Business Park • Pylle SHEPTON MALLET • Somerset • BA4 6TA
Tel: 01749 830706 • Email: maneeventsaddlery@btconnect.com — Next door to Jon Thorner’s Farm Shop —
44 THE VISITOR August 2015
Orchard Park
I DON’T KNOW about your garden but mine is finally producing enough to justify all the effort that has gone in so far! I seriously wonder some years why I bother, but then I look at all the species that I seem to be feeding; bank voles, slugs, pigeons and rabbits, so something somewhere must be thanking me for it! August is the month when I can get ahead of all the hungry mouths and have some produce for ourselves. The potatoes look very good, broad beans got overrun by black aphid before I realised it so not a great crop there, onions swelling, lettuce and tomatoes fine and the late
crops such as celeriac, leeks and late sown carrots establishing well. Peas never really had a chance this year as they were complete wildlife magnets; squirrels had the gooseberries and redcurrants but I had the blackcurrants [score 2:1 to them], and the usual battle will ensue for the hazel cobnuts and plums. Roses have done well and relatively untroubled by disease apart from the sap sucking aphids which had a massive population explosion a few weeks ago. They appear before you realise it and then the damage is done. Aphids draw a lot of nitrogen from plants and they will be most attracted to
Hedgecutters to suit all budgets and requirements Price from £89
Battery / Cordless – Long Reach Hand-Held – Telescopic
Stihl Cobra Alpina Tanaka Garden Care Kawasaki
LEE HOLMES Garden Machinery
15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, SOMERTON Tel: 01458 274261 • www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk
GARDENING
All worthy and reliable plants to give colour at this time of year. Leucanthemum will give showy flowers with white and lemony colours, Rudbeckia and Helenium reflect the summer sun with glorious yellows, oranges and fiery reds. There is a whole collection of Crocosmia to be had with colours from pale yellow through gold to orange and fiery reds, which contrast with the strap like green foliage. Congratulations go Orchard Park Garden Centre, Gillingham, who has become a member of the prestigious Garden Centre Association.
roses and other plants of course, that are growing quickly and in a ‘sappy’ state. The argument here is for slow release fertilisers, the granular sort that will let their nutrients go gradually over a few weeks as opposed to a liquid feed that gives the plant a short term boost – fast food for plants. But I still use liquid feeds as often that is the only way to get enough feed into a fast growing plant. Liquid feeds do fall into different categories and it is worth picking those that fit the rights stage of plant growth. Tomorite works well with flowering and fruiting plants because of the higher levels of Potash and phosphates it contains, Miracle-Gro has higher nitrogen and produces strong green leafy growth as well as flowers. It’s all horses for courses.
Plant of the Month
A lot of plants have given up by now and are taking a rest, but there are some sensational perennials that fill the August borders with colour. On my wish list I would have members of the Aster family such as Aster of course, Leucanthemum, and Rudbeckia along with sunflower types such as Echinacea and Helenium, and Iris family members like Crocosmia.
Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.
Glorious Golden Rudbeckia.
All these plants enjoy sunny positions and like most perennials do best with a soil that has added organic matter or humus to help hold moisture and provide plenty of nutrients for healthy growth.
Jobs for the Month
August is a holiday month for many people and that can be a challenge to keep plants in house and garden alive while you’re away. A good neighbour is really useful here, but if you are not lucky enough to have a friend at hand then you will try a few other things. House plants might be safer outdoors or at least moved to a shadier spot in the house rather than a sunny window sill, and
Full ground preparation and laying service available
The Farmhouse, Somerton Door, SOMERTON, TA11 6JA Tel / Fax: 01458 272091 www.evergreen-turf.co.uk • info@evergreen-turf.co.uk
QUALIFIED ARBORIST
ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL
TR EE PLA N TIN G
PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660
Utilise the generous grants now available to restock neglected woodland or areas of wasteground
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
Richard Scriven Lawn & Garden Maintenance Hedge Cutting Lawn Mowing General Tidy Ups etc. Patios, Driveways & Decking Power Washing Service Competitive Rates
Tel: 01458 272964 Mob: 07854 106599 Email: richscriven27@gmail.com
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
Alan Dodge BSc
Garden Machinery Specialists
Sales • Service • Repairs
Most makes & models Experienced and helpful staff
“Mowers to suit all requirements”
Engineering Ltd
Unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 4NB Tel: 01749 343881 • www.moggsofwells.com
THE VISITOR August 2015 45
GARDENING
placed on a tray with gravel. Water can be left in the tray to provide a reservoir that the plant can use while you are away. There are also a couple of gadgets that will allow water to trickle slowly into your plant Hozelock Aquasolo® Holiday watering cones do exactly that and can cope with a couple of week’s absence. Some house plants might be better outside in a sheltered and shady place as they enjoy a bit of fresh air and, if lucky, some refreshing rain as much as the rest of us. Fencing & Gates Supplied and Erected by the
YEOVIL & SHERBORNE FENCING & GATE Co.
FREE Estimates • No VAT Pressure Treated Material 10 Year Guarantee
01935 330095
Outdoor hanging baskets and planters will surely give up the ghost if left without water. Again move anything you can to a sheltered shady spot and give a good soaking. If no friendly neighbour available, then an upturned 2litre drink bottled will slowly drip into the compost and add water for a little while. Tomato plants in grow bags are harder to keep going. A larger water container with a narrow pipe from the bottom would work, allowing water to drip into the bag. Keeping crops going is essential, pick hard before you go, taking even the bits that aren’t ready as the plant will want to produce more before the end of the season. Same for weeds: kill off as much as you can either by hoeing or with a weed killer. It’s amazing how much everything grows in the short time you are away! There are always other jobs to be done; in the fruit garden – early and mid-season strawberry plants
GRAS nd to scarif S & B R U u ro g h g u y S TING ro 160 plant ing, orcha H C U T T I NG ROTAVA . Tel: 07659 550 rd s, p ations s ad , d T el: 07 seed be 659 5 playing fie docks, lds et 50160 c. lift h hig d an MI NI DI GG IN G 0160 dumper. Tel: 07659 55 G ANIN MOSS H C L E ting etc. T PROB A P spiking L P A T I O chanical poin , coring EMS scarif e ying , Tel: 07 a n d m 59 550160 659 550 6 7 160 0 l: Te
need to be cut back tidied up and mulched to get the plants to recover after their exertion. Summer fruiting raspberry canes should be removed so that the new canes can grow well enough to be trained for next year’s crop. Summer pruning is every bit as important as winter pruning and is absolutely essential for fan trained peaches, nectarines and cherries, as well as for espalier and cordon apples and pears. Trim back the long side shoots so that they are only 1 leaf over the basal cluster or leaves – sounds tricky but is very obvious once you look at how the trees grow. If you are short of time you can always get the hedge trimmer out to take back the superfluous growth that is draining the plants and deflecting goodness from the fruit crop. Then trim back properly later in the year. While you have the secateurs handy and if you have a wisteria then apply the same rules to that and follow up with a further pruning in January. Vegetable gardens – regular picking helps production. If you don’t pick then the plant will assume that no more is needed! Onions, shallots and garlic
should be lifted and left in the sun to dry for better storage as wet bulbs will rot. Check potatoes and tomatoes for blight – any brown spotted and blotched leaves should be removed and burnt. Finish lifting early and second early potatoes before either the blight or the slugs make them unusable. Caterpillars will strip Brassicas in no time. Check to see if they’re there. Either pick them off, or spray with pyrethrum [plant derived insecticide] or a manufactured product such as Provado Ultimate Bug Killer. Crops are really best covered with a fine mesh cover.
Handrail by Designs on Iron.
Made To Measure
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
PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD R. W. PRINCE LTD
Suppliers of Quality Recycled Aggregates Top Soil – Crushed Concrete – Road Planings All Types of Limestone Aggregates Sand and Gravel – Decorative Aggregates Asphalt Plant / Asphalt Products – Hot Box Hire Grab Lorries – Tipper Hire – Muckaway
New Asphalt Plant Installed
20mm Base • 10mm Top Coats • 6mm Top Coats Lime Stone or Hard
PLANT WORLD For the best plants!
Small Loads Collected or Delivered 7am – 4pm Daily • Monday – Friday ✴ Road Sweeper Hire ✴
Please call to enquire if we can help you with anything
PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD. Podimore,Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8JG Tel: 01935 849250 • Fax: 01935 849099 Mobile: 07973 844145
46 THE VISITOR August 2015
For all your gardening needs
Do Call In • Open 7 Days a Week • Ample FREE Parking
Milton On Stour, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5QA Tel: 01747 824015
the end bit...
PAPERCHASE
DESPITE its claim to be the ‘Champion of the West since 1858’ the Western Daily Press is not renowned for ensuring that its reporters have a good geographical knowledge of its circulation area. The latest proof of this came in the 8th July issue when it devoted an entire page to the news that Compton Castle in the village of Compton Pauncefoot is on the market. The reporter wrote that some people describe ‘Compton Castle, near Glastonbury on the SomersetDorset border’ as England’s most romantic estate, and I can only hope that he meant it’s the castle rather than Glastonbury that’s on the county border, because the town most certainly isn’t. But the castle is nowhere near Glastonbury, a town nigh on 20 miles away. The castle is around four miles from Wincanton and isn’t on the county border. The large parish of Corton Denham lies between Compton Pauncefoot and Dorset. It doesn’t inspire confidence in the paper’ championship qualities. Judging by its sole front page story on 26th June, it was a day when the Western Daily Press was very short of hard news despite the goings-on at Glastonbury. The headline screamed ‘Train ban for grubby music lovers’ and the report said that ‘Glastonbury Festival-goers have been warned they will not be able to get on trains back home if they are too muddy’. Not hard news, indeed not news at all. Back in May the train operator,
Solution to July
Sudoku
First Great Western, published a special guide for people planning to travel by rail to and from the festival, complete with timetables and standard fares from places as far afield as London, Plymouth, Southampton, Bristol and Swindon. And it contained the message that ‘in the interests of the comfort of all our customers, you will not be allowed to board the train if you are excessively muddy’, a message that the train operator has given out in previous years too. If it wasn’t news at all when the guide came out in May, it certainly wasn’t front-page news in late June. I was intrigued to read in the 2nd July issue of the Western Gazette that students at Gillingham school were putting the finishing touches to ‘their annual school production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night’.
Unbelievable that the school stages Twelfth Night every year, although I suspect that the slapdash reporter really meant that the school produces something Shakespearean every year. A headline in the property supplement in the 18th June issue of the Western Gazette caught my eye. ‘Call for more help for small housebuilders’, it stated, implying perhaps that longer ladders or higher trestles might do the trick. Or maybe it’s the builders of small houses who need more help – possibly little people who can mix cement in restricted surroundings. But no, it was small building companies seeking a tax break! And talking of headlines, how about this howler (shown below) from the Gazette’s 28th May issue. One scarcely likes to comment! Chronicler.
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.
BOOK REVIEW
Queen Camel and The Cadburys Volume XI of the Victoria County History of Somerset
Edited by Mary Siraut. Boydell & Brewer Ltd, 2015. 232pp hardback. ISBN 978-1-904356-45-5. £95
FOUR years have elapsed since Volume X of the Victoria County History of Somerset was published. It covered the nine parishes plus Wheathill that make up the northern part of the Catsash Hundred, a subdivision of the shire dating back at least to the 12th century and possibly much earlier. Reviewing it in this magazine I wrote that for people with an interest in the history of anywhere between Ansford and Castle Cary in the east and Barton St David and Kingweston in the west, it is a priceless book. The newly-published Volume XI covers the ten parishes in the southern part of the Catsash Hundred, from Maperton in the east to North and South Barrow and Queen Camel in the west, and will be a similarly good investment for parish historians. As in the previous volume, each parish has a chapter to itself describing the topography, communications, settlements and population and containing a detailed map showing land use at around 1840. Sections follow on landownership, local government and the economic, social and religious history of the parish, and all the sources of the information are tabulated in copious footnotes, although it helps if you have a knowledge of many of the terms used and the sources cited. It’s certainly not light reading but it repays the effort handsomely if you have an interest in the area and want to delve more deeply into aspects of its history. And it is lightened with plenty of well-chosen photographs and other illustrations, all informatively captioned. The £95 price tag is frightening but reflects the vast amount of scholarly research that has gone into its compilation and the care that has been taken with its production. The design, typography, cartography, photography and printing are all first class and the sturdy cover and binding will ensure that it withstands the frequent thumbing of avid local historians. In short, it’s terrific value for money. Roger Richards.
THE VISITOR August 2015 47
Classified Ads
SUMMER LOG PROMOTION
Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. For a Box Number please add £2. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.
Logs
BUY NOW – SAVE £££s Kiln Dried Logs dumpy Bag was £130 ... NOW £115 Kiln Dried Logs Per net was £9 ... NOW £8 Seasoned Logs Per net was £9 ... NOW £8 Kindling Per net was £3.50 ... NOW £3
✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.
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ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE www.logs4fuel.co.uk
01458 251476
Fires / Chimneys / Stoves
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HEATING & HOME STORE
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High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport 01458 251476
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Passport Photographs
PAssPORTs - passports - passports also studio sittings, weddings and golden weddings. Any time to suit you. Easy parking opposite The Quarry inn. Tel: graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.
Storage
sTORAgE for furniture in locked cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: sparkford storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.
T.V.
T.V. sales / service / Rental, H. R. Hodge, south Petherton. Tel: 01460 240645. www.hrhodge.co.uk
Personal
COUnTRY LinK sOCiAL gROUP, Fresh Air, Fun, Food and Friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918 or visit: www.country-link.org.uk
Services
HOUsEHOLd & gARdEn RUBBisH CLEAREd, old sheds / oubuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.
Dog Holidays
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.
48 THE VISITOR August 2015
Wanted
dAVE BUYs ALL TYPEs OF TOOLs, salvage, bygones and collectables. daves Tools - Tel: 01935 428975
POsTCARds, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.
ALL sPORTs PROgRAmmEs and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.
R E d U n d A n T m O T O R m O w E R s , rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844. gUns wAnTEd for cash. Any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. Tel: 07970 742471.
Mobile Bars / Catering
HARRY’s mOBiLE BARs, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk
For Sale
TAndEm dawes Kickback Two shimano 21 gears, 26” wheels, excellent condition, £250, martock, somerset. Tel: 02088 785078.
THE LiFE HisTORY of the United states, 5 Volumes. Vol. 1 Prehistory to 1774 The New World; Vol. 2 1775 to1789 The Making of a Nation; Vol. 3 1789 to 1829 - The Growing Years; Vol. 4 1829 to 1849 - The Sweep Westward and Vol. 5 1849 to 1865 - The Union sundered. £15. Tel: 07544 721582.
Say you saw it in The Visitor
07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com
Blinds
Quality Made To Measure Blinds
We supply & fit: Roller, Vertical Venetian, Roman and Panel Blinds No Drill Solutions for uPVC Windows • Motorised Blinds
Curtains
Pencil Pleat, Pinch Pleat, Eyelets
FREE QUOTE - FREE FITTING 01458 527127 • www.outlookblinds.co.uk
TV 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
For fast and professional service www.satwise.tv • sales@satwise.tv
07815 722274
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
PARKS
ROOFING LTD.
SLATING & TILING SPECIALISTS
Specialists in period and listed properties
• • • • •
• • • •
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
August Deadline Friday 17th July
Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs
26 Stembridge, nr. Kingsbury, Martock TA12 6BN Telephone: 01460 240229 • Mobile: 07917 411961
Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 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. Slate Tiling Flat Roofing. UPVC Fascias Guttering FREE ES T I MAT ES
01747 840064
... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk
Communications
A. Hamilton
Sliding Sash Window Specialist
R ESTORATIONS – R EFURBISHMENTS – R EPLACEMENTS
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 864522 www.sashwindowtlc.co.uk ae.hamilton@uwclub.net
U 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 7 years CUSTOMER REFERENCES AVAILABLE
Plumbing & Heating
High Street, Sparkford, nr. Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692
Roofing
Maintenance & Repairs
34 White Road, MERE, Nr. Warminster Wiltshire, BA12 6EX
Email: mead208@btinternet.com
Domestic Cleaning
Amanda Chedzoy Domestic Cleaning Services Experienced Trustworthy Reliable References Available
Tel: 01935 472669 Mobile: 07990 041322
Fire & Security Alarms
Clock Repairs
CLOCK REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs. Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience
Tel (01935) 477582
WESTLINE COMMUNICATIONS
Business Telecom Specialist For All Your Telecom Needs For free, friendly & professional advice call ...
John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk
THE VISITOR August 2015 49
House Clearances Nick’s House Clearances
All Work Undertaken Residential and Commercial Tel: 01935 817032 Mobile: 07871 327564
Friendly • Reliable • Trustworthy www.nickshouseclearances.com
Framing
SCENES
Artist Materials & Gallery
« Picture framing « Restoration « Large selection of prints & paintings « Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk
Say you saw it in The Visitor
DENTURE REPAIRS
While You Wait Collection & Delivery Denture Advice Mr. C. Dunn
Registered Dental Technician
01749 812585
www.dunndental.co.uk
Services
GOOD POTATOES
Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor gas Car and Van Rental Competitive Prices
Anchor Hill Service Station winCAnTOn 01963 32609
Domestic Appliances
Domestic Appliance Repairs
washing machines Vacuum Cleaners Cookers Tumble dryers etc.
SPARES – REPAIRS – SERVICING
Sparkford 01963 440689 • Yeovil 01935 474284
Pe
— www.deaonline.co.uk —
PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs COVERING THE SOUTH LOCALLY
Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs
Ø Repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OAP discounts
TELEPHONE: 01935 609300 / 01747 470212 / 01460 220660 / 01458 298212 For your nearest technician
Taylors Domestic
Appliances Ltd. Sales & Repairs for Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble Driers etc.
Ridge View, Penmore Road Sandford Orcas DT9 4SE
Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.
01963 220366 Email: info@tda.uk.com
Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil
50 THE VISITOR August 2015
Prize Crossword No. 346
Denture Repairs
Oven Cleaning Mister Oven Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc
Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk
Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145
www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk
Set by Frank Butler
SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG – to arrive by Friday 14th August.
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. 1
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About time maxim could be human. [6] Bring about and begin establishing trademark. [8] Having no direction, rascal confused. [6] So to speak, sweet air sorted. [2,2,4] Ah, this mix-up! Look behind the bands. [2-4] Urge on promises to pay. That’s false. [8] Supersonic arrangement for part of the orchestra. [10] Choice to refer within hundredths of a pound. [10] Sailor discolours and refuses to vote. [8] City hideaway at a confectioners. [6] Put gold for aluminium in hall after six deliveries; check and repair if needed. [8] Oak ran around coat. [6] Star unit supports nudity. [8] Di, infiltrating clan, wearing ... [4,2]
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13.
15.
16.
17. 19.
20. 21.
Confused ant with river in disposition. [6] Old US food-store? [3-3] Last king simple and slippery. [6] Aunt’s roast cooked for spacemen. [10] Rank Cecil (not I!) with biscuit. [8] Murder, an arrangement quite unspoiled. [8] Guards’ cap carries family. [8] Arts graduate has gift for wild animal. [6] Climb an odour. [6] Stout lady’s male parent. [6]
Solution to Crossword 345
Down: 1.
2. 3.
5.
Spinster, happy at first with primate getting bad form. [8] Care arranged, not his, with tools to pick things up from afar. [8] A tin this way for pricklyleaved plant. [8] Port or fuss sorted becoming anti-corrosive. [10]
THE WINNER of our July Crossword was Mr. Colin Gibbs of Wells, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at The Barrington Boar, Barrington, near Ilminster.