The Visitor Magazine Issue 380 July 2015

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In Passing ...

I

’VE BEEN TOLD the story several times in the last 30 years, and while I would like to think it’s true it’s probably apocryphal. A foreign visitor alights from the train at Gillingham and asks the bemused porter for directions to the River Medway, thinking that he has arrived at Gillingham in Kent. I mention this because I recently spent a delightful weekend in Dorchester – not our Dorchester, just beyond the edge of Visitorland, but Dorchester in Oxfordshire. These days the locals brand it Dorchester-on-Thames, something of a misnomer as it’s a mile from the river, but the OS maps and the road signs stick with plain Dorchester.

Both Dorchesters were Roman settlements. In the 4th century the Dorset one was called Durnovaria, and this had evolved to Dornwaraceaster by the 9th century and Dorecestre in Domesday Book of 1086. There was possibly a Roman temple at the Oxfordshire one in the 4th century but the earliest written reference to the place is the 8th century Dorciccaestrae which became Dorchecestre by 1086. The place-name experts tell us that this one means ‘Roman town called Dorcic’, a Celtic name ‘obscure in origin and meaning’, and they have not been able to explain the Dorset one satisfactorily apart from its Roman origins, the Old English ‘caester’ meaning a ‘Roman station, fortification or walled town’.

Most of the place names in Southern England were in existence by the time of the Norman Conquest. Those of Celtic or pre-Celtic origin were already in use before the coming of the Anglo-Saxons around the 5th century. Many more places were named by the Anglo-Saxons between then and the mid-11th century, their original forms being in Old English. Because so many place names are so old it is essential to trace their spellings as far back as possible to reveal their real meanings, but not many documents from before the Conquest survive.

Often Domesday Book is the earliest written record. And where earlier spellings have been found, they don’t necessarily shed more

light on meaning. Which is sad because the names of our towns, villages, fields and tracks are an integral part of the history of our countryside and can provide evidence of how it was used and developed.

It appears from the Old English spellings that the two Dorchesters have different meanings, and their histories are very different too. One is Dorset’s County Town, bustling with Thomas Hardy connections and Prince Charles’s Poundbury development that both attract countless visitors from all over the world. The other is a sleepy little Oxfordshire village with two ancient coaching inns, one dating from 1495, an Augustinian Abbey founded around 1140 which became the parish church after the dissolution of the monasteries and has been beautifully restored, and the river nearby. For a weekend away, Dorchester-on-Thames is much prettier than Gillingham-on-Medway.

NN.

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CONTENTS

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to Longleat ... with thanks.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 64 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 16 BUSINESS - 18

CAMELOT COUNTRY - 11

CROSSWORD - 66 GARDENING - 59

HOUSE & HOME - 45 LANGPORT - 35

LEISURE & TRAVEL - 19

LET’S MAKE MUSIC - 14 LETTERS - 5 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.

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 31 MARTOCK - a business focus - 24

MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 22

MUSIC for the MONTH - 15 NOTICE BOARD - 11 PAPERCHASE - 63

PHONE-A-FIRM - 64 PUBS - 53

SOMERTON - 39

SOUTH PETHERTON - in and around - 28 THEY SAY - 56

WINE & DINE - 58

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR July 2015 3

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4 THE VISITOR July 2015

Letters to the Editor

Please Help to Find Marion

Sir, I arrived at Salisbury Hospital Car Park at about 3.30pm on the 27th May. I took a relative of a terminally ill patient to the hospital. We were at The Odstock end of the very large rear car parks. There was nowhere near we could obtain change. A lady named Marion with her grandson who was about 12, was visiting a department in The Old Odstock buildings near the car park. Marion insisted we took the minimum of I think it was £1.60 to pay the first hour, until I could sort the shortage of change, she was not concerned to have her money returned. I could not find her afterwards to refund her money, therefore she will not be encouraged to do it again.

I would like to thank her for her kindness and return her money if I was aware who Marion was.

Anyone knowing a lady of this description please contact me.

George Jeans, Jeans Electrical Salisbury Street Mere or email: jeanssdc@aol.com

Corruption, the Media and Democracy

Sir, If any of us were ever in any doubt that corruption is alive and well, then the arrest of FIFA officials is evidence enough of what has long been suspected about the dubious practices, at the highest levels, of what was once known as the ‘beautiful game’. Whilst I can hardly be

described as a football fan, the developments have been of particular interest to me, along with others, who are often confronted and concerned by such invidious corruption at a more local level.

Some years ago, in an effort to find out how others view me, I conducted a random survey. The results were an interesting mix, largely dependent on the closeness of my relationship with those surveyed, and were both complimentary yet brutally honest in their assassination of my character. The one comment among hundreds that sticks with me to this day, and which I consider to be the highest accolade, is that made by my solicitor who described me as incorruptible. This seems somewhat ironic, as coming from a long line of crooks and thieves I am no stranger to the dubious practices employed by others to achieve their own ends. For me, sticking to the straight and narrow path, especially in the face of adversity, has been a long and often painfully rocky road.

Those who try to influence others, and fail in the attempt, can be utterly vindictive in the face of such failure, seeking to punish, by whatever means, those who do not reinforce their views and opinions, however misguided.

In the case of FIFA it is clear, at this stage at least, that the intention has been to line the

pockets of officials in exchange for votes. Whilst money may not actually change hands, there is evidence of similar practices being carried out closer to home, with exertion put on officials to vote a certain way in an underhand attempt to manipulate decisions that can have an impact on our communities, along with the deliberate withholding of information to influence outcomes. This can be quite difficult to prove, as those engaged in such practices are quick to close ranks, issuing claims and counter claims in an effort to discredit their rivals. Our local press also has a part to play in this, where there can be the temptation to bow to the demands of those who seek to undermine editorial freedoms; this is something I believe passionately should be resisted as all costs. I am fortunate in that I am often given the opportunity to express my views publicly, but at no time would it ever occur to me to demand that something is printed, or more importantly, withheld, to suit my own purposes, and I would be uncomfortable to think that our media would agree to be manipulated in such a way, although I know there are

attempts to do so.

In this age of social media there is more than one way to get a message out, but retaining public confidence in the independence of our press must surely be paramount and at the root of democracy. As a Christian I am in no doubt that the truth will always surface eventually, but what really bothers me is the precious amount of time and energy spent on challenging such behaviour. We could all achieve so much more if instead we really did do everything we could to make our society a better place, instead of playing lip service to the sentiment.

Linda Piggott-Vijeh 3 Rectory Court Vicarage Hill Combe St. Nicholas TA20 3NE

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Dispatches

Castle Cary and Ansford Carnival Society Events

Saturday, 27 June Coffee Morning at the Market House 9.30am -12.30pm.

Saturday, 27 June Celebration and Mystery with Bryan Hallett and Co at Caryford hall 7.30pm, with wine bar and light supper.

Tickets £7.50 Adults, £5 children, tickets from: Needful Things 01963 351352, Mo Higgins 01963 350498, and Ann Emery 01963 34696.

Wednesday, 1 July Bingo at the Scout Hut, next to the Primary School. Eyes down 7.30pm.

Village Fete Stalls Required

Yeovil Railway Centre at Yeovil Junction will be holding a twoday event to celebrate the 100th Birthday of steam locomotive ‘Lord Fisher’ over the weekend of 5th and 6th September 2015.

0-4-0 ST ‘Lord Fisher’ was built in Kilmarnock, Scotland by Andrew Barclay and left their works on 7 September 1915. The

Steam engine 'Lord Fisher' on loan to the Yeovil Railway Centre by Barry Buckfield, will reach its 100th birthday later this year.

engine is on loan to the Centre

by Barry Buckfield.

In addition to railway related attractions, the Centre would like to create a traditional village fete (1950’s or 1960’s style) in the

eastern part of its site and to this end is offering Charity or Notfor-Profit organisations the opportunity to have a stall free of charge for the two days.

The stalls will need to be in

keeping with the theme of the fete, possibly offering visitors to have a go at something and not simply a sales stand. The monies raised at each stall to be retained by that organisation for their own

Tel: 01963 33370 | Higher Holton, nr Wincanton BA9 8EA info@elliscombehouse.co.uk | www.elliscombehouse.co.uk

6 THE VISITOR July 2015

THE VISITOR July 2015 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches benefit. Expressions of interest or enquiries can be made to Roger Marsh on 01935 814367 or by email: jillrog@tiscali.co.uk

Local Adoption charity opens its doors in Somerset

Specialist adoption agency and charity Families for Children are pleased to announce the opening of their new adoption service in Somerset. The charity has been working across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset for over 20 years and it is hoped that by having an office based in Taunton they will be able to provide support for new adopters from Somerset.

The charity have stated they are particularly looking for those who may consider adopting a sibling group, older child or a child with disabilities.

The service is being headed up

by Adoption Practice Manager, Jakki Parsons, who along with her team of social workers hope that having a local office will ensure the charity’s vital work both in placing vulnerable children with new adoptive families in Somerset and their adoption support continues.

To find out more visit www.familiesforchildren.org.uk or phone 01278 227027.

Somerset Sight is the independent charity which has been providing support and advice to sight impaired people across Somerset since 1919, it set up a Volunteer Visiting Service in the 1990s which is still running today. Volunteer visitors visit

people at home or in Care Homes for company and support related to their sight loss.

Mary Spencer of Wedmore has been a volunteer visitor for 15 years and received a big surprise recently when she was presented with a long-service award by the charity’s Chief Executive Officer, Tom Winsborough. Tom said: ‘Our charity could not exist without our dedicated volunteers who visit people in their own homes, provide support at our main office and help with our many other services. Mary has been a fantastic volunteer visitor since 2000, always positive, cheerful, committed to her work and providing caring support and company to the people she has visited. We are most grateful to her and all our other 150 volunteer visitors around Somerset, this certificate is a small thank you to Mary from us!’

If you would like to know more about becoming a Volunteer please contact Gloria Williams at Somerset Sight’s main office on 01823 366146 or email: Gloria@somersetsight.org.uk

RSPCA Appeals for Information To Help Honour Swindon Woman

The RSPCA North Wiltshire Branch is appealing for information in a bid to fully honour a Swindon woman who left them a life-saving legacy.

The branch has just been notified that the late Helene Adele Lisbeth Klein, previously of York Road, Swindon, left £143,087 to them following her death in February 2014.

The generous legacy will mean the branch is a significant step closer to it’s big ambition of building an animal centre with veterinary clinic to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in the RSPCA North Wiltshire branch area.

The dream project is likely to

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8 THE VISITOR July 2015

Tom Winsborough, Chief Executive Officer of Somerset Sight, with Mary Spencer of Wedmore who received a certificate for 15 years outstanding service as a volunteer with the charity.

cost in the region of three million pounds in order to purchase a suitable site and build a purpose built centre to look after cats, dogs and small animals.

But in order to be able to honour Helene Klein’s role in eventually building the centre, which could help to save the lives of hundreds of unwanted and neglected animals every year, the branch is keen to find someone who can tell them more about their benefactor.

RSPCA North Wiltshire Branch manager, Richard Clowes, said: “Sadly, no one at the RSPCA branch seems to have known Helene but we are all incredibly grateful that she knew about us and left this generous legacy in her will.

‘Her legacy will provide a very significant start in kicking off our ‘dream appeal’ and we would like to be able to acknowledge her contribution in some way, perhaps by eventually naming part of the animal centre after her.

‘It would be great to have an Helene Klein cattery or dog block but in order to pay tribute to her properly we are keen to find out more about her.

‘As far as we know, she did not leave any pets when she died, but perhaps she had friends or neighbours who could tell us more about her. Was she a cat lover or a dog devotee or did she simply love all animals equally? Any information would be great.’

Anyone who knew the late

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Mentioned in

Dispatches Helene Adele Lisbeth Klein is urged to contact Richard Clowes at the RSPCA North Wiltshire branch on 01793 640 136 or admin.northwilts@btconnect.com

Have Your Say on County Council Shake up

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is currently consulting local people on its draft proposals for new electoral division boundaries across Dorset. The consultation closes on 6 July 2015.

The Commission’s draft recommendations propose that Dorset County Council should have 46 county councillors in the future: one more than the current arrangements. The proposals mean those councillors would represent 34 single-member and six two-member electoral divisions across the county.

The recommendations propose changes to division boundaries throughout the county.

Max Caller, Chair of the Commission, said: ‘We are asking local people to log on to our website or visit their local library to have a look at our proposals for new division boundaries for Dorset. We are keen to hear what local people think of the recommendations and to tell us if they agree with the proposals.

If you don’t agree with the boundaries we have drawn, we would like to hear your alternatives.

‘Our review aims to deliver electoral equality for voters in elections to Dorset County Council. This means that each county councillor represents a similar number of electors so that everyone’s vote in county council elections is worth roughly the same regardless of where you live. We also aim to ensure that the council’s divisions reflect, as far as possible, the interests and identities of local communities across the county.

‘We will consider all the submissions we receive whoever they are from and whether your evidence applies to the whole of Dorset or just a part of the county.’

Local people can visit the Commission’s interactive consultation portal at www. consultation.lgbce.org.uk to look

at detailed maps of the Commission’s proposals and get all the advice they need to make a submission during the consultation.

The full recommendations and detailed maps are also available on the Commission’s main website at www.lgbce.org.uk/ current-reviews/southwest/dorset/dorset-county-council.

Hard copies of the Commission’s report and maps have also been made available to view at council buildings and libraries.

Write to: The Review Officer (Dorset), Local Government Boundary Commission for England, Layden House, 76-86 Turnmill Street, London EC1M 5LG or email: reviews@lgbce. org.uk

Fusion Lifestyle Takes Over Operation of Council’s Leisure Facilities

Leisure facilities across Mendip are in line for a multi-million pound cash injection after Fusion Lifestyle took over responsibility for operating the council’s facilities from Monday June 1st.

Fusion, an independent charity, has pledged to invest millions of pounds over the term of its leases on the council’s leisure facilities, ensuring up-todate and popular leisure activities can be provided across the district for many years to come.

Fusion’s investment programme, which is due to be completed by 1st April 2018, is:

Academy, students complete the Community Sports Leaders and Higher Sports Leaders qualifications. These courses give students the skills they need to provide sports and recreational activities in the community. The College has provided Leadership courses for more than 10 years and, to date, students have spent more than 10,000 hours voluntarily working with groups ranging from toddlers to the elderly as part of their training.

Many students continue their volunteering long after they have completed their qualifications, making a valuable contribution to the whole community and gaining valuable work-related skills that prepare them for future careers.

To date, Yeovil College students have helped with disability sports events at the Royal Bath & West Show, the Tag to Twickenham rugby event for local primary schools and the Big Toddle fundraiser involving nursery children. The students often coach and officiate, taking a key role in proceedings.

Instructing Exercise & Fitness student Tom Willis (19) of Yeovil said ‘I’ve got involved with lots of different events through the Leadership Academy. My favourite was a tag rugby

competition for 17 local schools.

About 200 children in years five and six took part and it was great fun. I’d recommend being part of the Academy. It’s definitely helped me with my confidence and to become well known in schools, which is great because I’d like a career in education. I want to coach primary school children, working as a PE Teacher or Teaching Assistant.’

The Leadership Academy is one of a number of high profile sports academies run by the College to train, develop and inspire elite and talented sportspersons to achieve their full potential. As a result of this specialist support, many Yeovil College students have been selected to play for county, regional and national teams and even competed at prestigious international competitions, such as the Olympic Games.

Yeovil College’s Curriculum Area Manager for Sport Matt Hann said ‘Yeovil College first gained academy status for leadership from Sports Leaders UK two years ago and we’re thrilled to have it renewed. It’s the culmination of a lot of hard work by both staff, including Andrew Mitchell and Andrew Roda, and of course our fantastic students. We hope that the

*Frome Leisure Centre £2million *Wells Leisure Centre £550,000 *Strode Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre - £100,000 *Tor Sports and Leisure Centre - £75,000 *Shepton Mallet Lido - £75,000

Fusion Lifestyle’s 50-year leases for the facilities started on Monday June 1st, when the council’s leisure contract with Western Community Leisure and Avalon Leisure came to an end.

Yeovil College

Yeovil College has been awarded Leadership Academy status by Sports Leaders UK for the second time.

Yeovil College is one of only two colleges in Somerset to receive this prestigious status, which highlights the centre as a beacon of good practice which offers its students a pathway of additional opportunities and a package of initiatives which motivate and inspire them.

Through the Leadership

THE VISITOR July 2015 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches students’ volunteering in the local community has made a real, positive difference, both to them and the people they support. This status recognises the outstanding opportunities that the College provides to help our learners develop a range of transferable skills and gain invaluable experience, as well as our ongoing commitment to the local community. At a time when specialist sports delivery is limited, Yeovil College and its students remain committed to supporting fitness activities and we hope to continue training exemplary sports leaders for a long time to come.’

For more information about volunteering and enrichment opportunities at Yeovil College, please visit www.yeovil.ac.uk.

Viridor acquires Commercial Recycling Ltd’s Waste Collection Division in Dorset and Somerset

As part of the agreement, Commercial Recycling Ltd (CRL) has retained its waste transfer and recycling business, and its collection division passed to Viridor on 1st June.

The handover included the acquisition of a 1,000-strong customer base, 18 collection vehicles, a lease of a vehicle depot and the TUPE integration of 36 full-time employees.

Mark Woods, Regional Director, Viridor said: ‘Viridor aims to give resources new life through the provision of our essential recycling-led services.

Alongside our current £1.5bn investment programme in vital recycling and energy infrastructure, a key element of our growth strategy is the expansion of our collection services, and this acquisition is a further milestone in strengthening our business.

‘Combining this new service capacity and fleet integration will help Viridor deliver the very best service and quality to our customers. This is a very exciting time for everyone involved and we look forward to welcoming the CRL team into Viridor.’

An independent collection company, CRL is jointly owned by shareholders Ian Mariner and Bill Riddle. Ian Mariner, Owner and Director of CRL added: ‘The

10 THE VISITOR July 2015

decision to integrate our frontline collections infrastructure is the right one for our customers and colleagues. Viridor has an outstanding reputation as a leader in recycling and resource management and I know the division will be in safe hands with them. We will continue to work with the team to ensure a smooth handover.’

80th Anniversary Celebration

Ilminster Young Farmers were formed in 1935, and to celebrate the magnificent milestone of 80 years, current members of the club organised a very successful dinner and dance at the Shrubbery Hotel. 175 guests enjoying a fantastic evening, with a four course meal and dancing to local band to Powercut.

Lord Cameron of Dillington joined them to celebrate and gave a very informative and amusing speech.

Former member and owner of Cottage Flowers, Angie Collins kindly donated all the table decorations and a secret auction raised almost £800 for the club's chosen charities.

As a charity organisation themselves Ilminster YFC have, over the years, raised money for many local and national charities such as RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution) Guide Dogs for the Blind, Diabetes UK, Somerset Sight, the list goes on.

Last year alone they raised over £4000 for their three chosen charities. This year’s charities are Dorset and Somerset Air

Ambulance, Freewheelers and the Princes Countryside Fund.

The celebrations continue with a Cream Tea on Sunday 5th July at Horton Village Hall between 2pm – 5pm. If you would like to join us in the celebrations please just come along and maybe catch up with some old friends and also find out what the club is up to these days.

Any queries please contact Ellie Brunt, Chairman on 07931 286671, or Jane Brunt, President jlbrunt1709@gmail.com or 07792 949927.

Longleat House Plays Host to Prehistoric Monarch

Longleat House has played host to many monarchs over the centuries, including both Queen Elizabeths. However its latest ‘royal’ visitor can surely lay claim to the oldest heritage.

A 4-metre-tall tyrannosaurus rex, or king of the dinosaurs, made quite an impact when it was temporarily installed in the Great Hall of Lord Bath’s family home. The 65-million-year-old reptile is part of Dinosaurs Alive: A Prehistoric Adventure which features 20 animatronic dinosaurs.

Before taking up its permanent place in the exhibition, staff decided to recreate one of the most iconic scenes from the original Jurassic Park movie, with the Great Hall standing in for the film’s Grand Visitor Centre.

In the film’s climactic finale, the T-rex actually saves the main

characters as it breaks in to the Centre and attacks the raptors which have them trapped.

Longleat’s Steve Mytton said: ‘It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to set up the shot of a tyrannosaurus rex surrounded by the splendour and history of Longleat’s Great Hall.

‘The Hall is one of the oldest surviving parts of Longleat House and dates back to Elizabethan times. However even its great age pales in to insignificance compared to the T-rex’s pedigree of more than 65 million years!

‘While he was in the hall we took the opportunity to do some last-minute cleaning and a final inspection of his vicious-looking teeth to ensure he was in prime condition and ready to meet his new fans,’ he added.

Among the other massive moving prehistoric beasts on display as part of the new attraction are brachiosaurus, stegosaurus, triceratops and megalosaurus. A pair of freeroaming dinosaurs have also been released around the estate and visitors are being advised to keep an eye out for some unexpected dinosaur encounters.

Sherborne Over 50’s Group

On Monday 29th June, Sherborne Over 50’s Group will be holding a public meeting in the Digby Hall, Hound Street at 2.30pm.

The speakers Dr Simone Yule and Ms Gillian Brindle, talking about the future plans for Dorset Health Service.

As always the meeting will be

Even this Tyrannosaurus rex, needs to have his teeth checked occasionally. ‘Dinosaurs Alive’ 20 life-size pre-historic creatures take to the park at Longleat this summer. Walk amongst these incredible animals but keep your children close, as they come to life around you!

Mentioned in

Dispatches open to all ages and will include a raffle, tea or coffee with homemade cakes. Entrance is free so please come and join in.

Langport’s Great Debate on ‘New Magna Carta’

On Saturday 6 June, Langport enjoyed a stimulating debate on the need for a reformed constitution for the UK. The 4th annual Bagehot Debate, a flagship event of the 2015 Langport Festival, commemorated the 800th anniversary year of Magna Carta, with two Barons and two students debating the motion 'It's time for a new Magna Carta’.

The Debate was held in Huish Academy’s Sixth Form auditorium, and, as well as the Debate itself, the audience enjoyed a superb Magna Carta exhibition held by Curry Mallet, Somerset’s only Magna Carta village.

The motion was proposed by Lord Tyler (former Liberal Democrat MP, Paul Tyler) and Douglas Stephenson, Huish Academy student. Opposing the motion was Lord Norton of Louth (Conservative peer and Professor of Politics, Philip Norton) and Sarah Allen, Huish Academy student.

This stellar panel ensured passionate discussion on the pros and cons of a written constitution, and its impact on British politics and society. The audience contributed many challenging comments and questions, which ensured a well-rounded, substantial debate. A show of hands at the end produced a clear majority of the audience against the motion.

Speaking after the Debate, Barry Winetrobe, Chair of the Bagehot Memorial Fund, which organised the Debate, said: ‘As with our previous debates, we are extremely impressed at the quality of debate, not only from our ‘professional’ guest speakers, but especially from the Academy’s Debating Society, and in the contributions from so many of the audience. We are pleased that our annual Debate can consistently attract such a high calibre of guest speaker, and is a forum for the local community to appreciate the skills and enthusiasm of its Academy’s

Camelot

students. The Langport area can be justly proud that this small community can host such a unique event every year, as part of its successful Festival.’

July Notice Board HASELBURY PLUCKNETT

Sing for Joy Concert at the Haselbury Mill, Wednesday 29th July at 6.30pm. Sacred Songs / Sacred Chant led by renowned American choir leader Stefan Waligur. Kingsbury Brass Band, Chard Methodist Music Group Choral Singing. No charge donations towards a Children’s and Family worker. The Haselbury Mill selection of refreshments available from 5pm.

HENSTRIDGE

Blackmore Vale U3A, Mountains & Maharajahs, Tuesday 7th July at 2.30pm at Henstridge Village Hall.

Members £1.50, visitors £2.50, includes refreshments.

MARTOCK

Third visit: Des Bacon's Red Hot Syncopators with Steve Graham & vocalist Ed Hughes evoking the Charleston era. In church 7.30pm 9th July. £7 on door, £6 from ‘News’, ‘Gallery’ & 01935 822706.

STOURTON CAUNDLE

Open Gardens in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare: Grange Cottage, DT10 2JP, on Sunday 5th July from 2pm to 5pm. Entry £4 - children free and Manor Farm, DT10 2JW on Sunday 5th July from 2pm to 5pm. Entry £5 - children free. Teas available.

WEST CAMEL

Art Exhibition at The Davis Hall, BA22 7QX, weekend of 18th & 19th July, 10.30am - 5pm.

Paintings, pottery, carved wood, fused glass, handmade leather goods. Free admission, Cream Teas, Commissions taken.

ADVERTISE YOUR AUGUST 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. Deadline for our August issue, Friday 17th July.

Sea Harriers and a F-4K Phantom FG1 - just two of the aircraft on display at the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day on Saturday 11th July.

ROLLING HILLS, green grass, winding lanes and attractive villages ... these are the attributes that spring to mind when the term Camelot Country is mentioned. But there is much more to this beautiful area, for among the medieval churches, thatched cottages and productive farms you will find independent businesses a-plenty ... here are just a few of them.

Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton International Air Day

A popular attraction is the Royal Naval Air Station at Yeovilton, and this summer, to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Station, classic jet aircraft will be out in force at their immensely popular International Air Day, taking place on Saturday 11th July.

See the feisty MiG-15; the unmistakable shape of the Sea Vixen; the awesome flying display of the mighty Avro Vulcan XH558, probably making its final ‘roar’ this year over the South West; a joint flying display of a Canberra and Hunter; static Sea Harriers and representing RNAS Yeovilton’s thunderous ’70s era,

the muscular and potent F-4K Phantom FG1. A day not to be missed!

The winners of last month’s competition to win tickets to the Air Day were: Mrs S.J.Hughes of Gillingham, and Mr. John Griffiths of Bristol.

The Catash Inn, North Cadbury

Since taking over in January Jon and Gemma have been busy introducing new menus and refurbishing the letting rooms of this popular family run, village inn. Their next project is to shortly refurbish the dining room.

Delicious home-cooked food is served lunchtime and evening 6 days a week (closed Mondays).

From a Traditional roast and homemade pies through to steaks and fish dishes there is something to suit all tastes.

There is a skittle alley which is also available for private functions and a lovely beer garden to the rear. There will be a family fun day on the 25th July with live music, bouncy castle, games and a BBQ so pop along!!

The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH

Sunday Roast: £7.95 Saturday Steak Night: 2 Steaks + Bottle of Wine £22.50

FAMILY FUN DAY

Large Beer Gardens

Saturday 25th July  12noon start BBQ • Live Music • Games for Children • All Welcome

 North Cadbury 01963 441531

Skittle Alley

THE VISITOR July 2015 11

Camelot Country

Jeremy Windsor

Jeremy Windsor has been in the garden machinery repair business for over 20 years. He repairs and services all makes and models of mowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, ride on mowers etc. He offers a collection and delivery service and he doesn’t charge VAT, which makes repairs and servicing very competitive.

North Cadbury Village Stores

Beverley & James Candy welcome you to North Cadbury Village Stores. Since taking over nearly two years ago the shop has been completely refurbished.

Alongside groceries and green grocery the store offers fresh, locally sourced meat from Andrew Barclay of Wincanton; a range of local produce including Montgomery’s potatoes and their famous cheeses; Wadman’s famous Jersey cream; Longman’s Farmhouse butter and a selection of Fudges and Border biscuits.

Useful services offered include colour and black and white photocopying; faxing; laminating and mobile phone top-ups. They are also agents for Puffin Dry

This spacious garden room with glass doors is from Sparkford Timber Buildings & Gates. This wellestablished business has been supplying sheds and bespoke timber buildings to customers far and wide for many years. See their advert on the inside back cover.

Cleaners ... and shoe repairs. A local delivery service is offered (minimum £20.00).

Opening times: Monday to Friday 8am - 1pm and 2pm 5.30pm, Saturday 8am - 1pm

The Village Stores Beverley & James Candy welcome you to NORTH CADBURY • Tel: 01963 440201 Open 7 Days a Week

An extensive range of goods & services available • Fresh Meat from ANDREW BARCLAY of Wincanton Daily deliveries of ‘Specials’ and your orders taken • Selected local farm Cheeses including ...

MONTGOMERY'S World Famous Farmhouse Cheeses • Cream from WADMAN'S famous Jersey herd • LONGMAN'S Farmhouse Butter • ANNAMMA'S CUISINE Curry Sauces - made locally • FUDGES & BORDERS Biscuits in stock • FRESH BREAD, CAKES, PIES & SAVOURIES ...

NOW MADE ON THE PREMISES BY OUR INSTORE BAKER • Groceries - Fruit & Vegetables & Milk delivered daily FREE HOME • Pet Foods and Household Goods DELIVERIES • Faxing - Laminating minimum £20 • Dry Cleaning with PUFFINS of Yeovil - Shoe Repairs • Off Licence - Newspapers & Magazines, Greetings Cards & Stationery • Postage Stamps for home and abroad • Phone Top-Up Service

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

(closed Saturday afternoons), Sunday 9am - 1pm.

Dave Braybon - Arborist

David Braybon went ‘into the woods’ as a trainee forester on the Duchy of Lancaster Estates in North Yorkshire in 1972.

He subsequently moved to the South West where he worked in tree surgery and landscaping before going to Merrist Wood College, Guildford in 1975 where he completed his Certificate in Agriculture. It was the only college offering arboricultural

courses at the time. He started his own business in l976.

The business has grown over the years and is now highly respected, carrying out work for County and District Councils, numerous local estates, farms and National Trust properties.

Work covers a broad spectrum from tree pruning and dangerous tree removal to woodland planning and management.

Dave Hoddinott General Builder

Dave Hoddinott will be a familiar

Dave Hoddinott FULLY QUALIFIED BUILDER - ESTABLISHED 1973

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

Tel: (01963) 440256

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

24 hour emergency call out

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TR EE PLA N TIN G

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

12 THE VISITOR July 2015

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

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Camelot Country

face to many in the Camelot area having been born and bred in Queen Camel. A qualified builder and plumber, established for over 40 years, he offers a friendly and reliable service, whether you require an extension to your property or just a washer for a dripping tap.

If you’re thinking of replacing your kitchen or changing your bathroom suite, Dave will see the job through from beginning to end, including wall and floor tiling and any electrical work that needs to be carried out.

are excited to be adding another chapter to the history of this wonderful old pub.

The Camelot has a cosy

restaurant and bar area, goodsized beer garden and car park to the rear. The pub is proud to have a close association with

local producers and suppliers and offer a varied food menu.

Visit website www.camelotpub.co.uk for more information.

The Camelot

The Camelot Pub is located in the quaint village of South Cadbury in the beautiful Somerset Countryside.

A country pub with style, The Camelot offers a range of great, local real ales, varied wine list, fresh, seasonal food and a friendly atmosphere enjoyed by both locals and those from further afield. The pub changed ownership back at the end of 2013 and Richard and the team

Enjoy the sunshine in the garden of The Camelot, South Cadbury.

THE VISITOR July 2015 13

Jaywalk Guitars

Jaywalk Guitars is Somerset's premier guitar shop. With well over 300 guitars of all types in stock, they offer quality products to suit beginners all

the way up to professionals. A fantastic range including Fender, Martin, Gretsch, Tanglewood, Blackstar, Ibanez and many more top brands attracts people from across the

Mike Manning Audio - a corner of the showroom. With over 50 years experience you can be sure of excellent service and quality sound.

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

By John Osborne • Answers can be found on page 63

1. 'The Police' said 'Don't Stand ... ' Where?

2. 'Derek and the... ' ?

3. Name the band behind the album 'Sticky Fingers'

4. 'Favourite Shirts' was the debut single for which band?

5. How do we best know George Barnett?

6. 'Where do you go to my lovely?' A question asked by whom?

7. Who is the lady who said she liked 'Fast Cars'?

8. Name the Beatles album that features the tracks 'If I fell' and 'I Should Have Known Better'

9. Name the 60's band behind '5-4-3-2-1', 'Pretty Flamingo' 'Haha, Said the Clown' and others.

10. 'Generation X' had who as their lead singer?

Bonus Question Name the year in Q6

Question Impossible Name the 1999 single that features the voice of Australian Lee Perry.

Great Quotes in Music "Music, in performance, is a type of sculpture. The air in the performance is sculpted into something" – Frank Zappa 14 THE VISITOR July 2015

county and beyond. The shop on the High Street in Street also stocks amplifiers, pickups, accessories, a good selection of ukuleles and also includes a demo room to try out instruments. All this backed up by expert knowledge and advice from gigging musicians makes Jaywalk Guitars the goto destination for all your guitar needs.

Mike Manning Audio

Mike opened his first shop in Yeovil back in 1987, stocking and demonstrating a range of quality hi-fi products not before available outside of the larger towns.

The staff at Mike Manning Audio are all music and home cinema enthusiasts, not commission based salesmen.

Between them they have amassed over 50 years experience of demonstrating, selling and installing 'quality' audio and video equipment.

Their customer's have learned to trust their judgement and expertise.

Demonstrations are carried out in a relaxed and unpressured manner, making it a more pleasurable experience choosing your heart's (and Ears) desire.

The product range that they demonstrate and sell is carefully chosen by them for it's performance ... not review or commercially led.

Why not visit their website or call in person to their Yeovil shop.

Musical Instrument Repairers (NAMIR) and are well placed to advise on any aspect of your musical journey.

They stock a very wide range of new & used instruments, accessories and sheet music and their friendly approachable attitude means you can ask them any question and get an honest answer. Wessex Music only sell instruments they would be prepared to play themselves so call in, look around and have a go – you will enjoy it.

Wessex Music for instrument sales, repairs and rental.

Pictured Right: Simon Beard of Godden & Curtis, Sherborne in his on-the-premises repairs workshop. Simon is a man of many talents - he is an accomplished guitar player.

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Musicians did you know we offer an excellent REPAIR SERVICE on ...

Guitar Amplifiers Valve Audio P. A. Systems

All leading makes repaired including SALES • SERVICE • REPAIR

Wessex Music

Wessex Music has been looking after local musicians for over twelve years. Gary and Tim are both professional members of the National Association of

Your Local Independent Television and Audio Specialists

Greenhill • Sherborne • Dorset • DT9 4EW • Tel: 01935 813451 “Where customer care and after sales service is paramount”

June 26th 27th July 4th 4th 10th 18th 24th 25th 25th

MU IC M NTH O R S O F THE Hells Bells - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Craig Priddice - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi

Road Hogs - Muddled Man, West Chinnock Grooming The Wookie - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon BB Tim - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Dinosaur Cafe - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon Finnian McGurk - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Live Music - Catash Inn, North Cadbury Chris Rainbow - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi

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

THE VISITOR July 2015 15

Antiques, Vintage & Collecting ‘The Duke of Wellington was a prolific correspondent,’ notes Robert Ansell, the Books & Manuscripts consultant at Lawrences Auctioneers in Crewkerne, where the letter will be sold on July 31st. ‘However, this letter reveals much about him in just a single sentence.

Napoleon’s army was beginning its advance on Brussels and the King of the Netherlands had just placed his own soldiers under the Duke of Wellington’s command.

In this brief missive, Wellington shows himself to be organized and concerned for the care and welfare of his men. On the same day, we know from Dispatches that he wrote to Lord Stewart discussing tactics and deciding to commence the battle when he had mustered

as many as 450,000 men.

‘Napoleon hoped to try and frustrate supplies to such a large army by the use of false intelligence. On the day, Wellington had 67,000 men to Napoleon’s 69,000. We hope that the current considerable interest in the anniversary of this notable battle will attract keen bidders to this simple but vital letter.’

The letter (31 by 19cm), now framed and glazed, has been consigned for sale from a lady in Dorset whose family have owned it for over a century. It is signed ‘Your Lordship’s most obedient Humble Servant, Wellington’ and is expected to make £1,000£1,500. Further details from the auctioneers on (01460) 73041, www.lawrences.co.uk

Letter, written by the Duke of Wellington, is expected to make £1,000 – £1,500 in Lawrences Auction on 31st July.

Battle Expected for Wellington Letter at Auction on 31st July

AS THE 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo (18th June) approached, a remarkable glimpse into the Duke of Wellington’s preparations for battle was offered for sale at auction.

The letter, written by the Duke on May 8th 1815 as he made

crucial plans for his most decisive conflict and the final vanquishing of Napoleon’s ambitions, comprises a single sentence requesting ‘medicines and materials required for the use of this army’ to be sent ‘as soon as possible’. It was addressed to ‘The Right Honble The Secretary of War’ (Earl Bathurst) and was received in Whitehall just four days later on May 12th.

Under New Ownership ...

CREWKERNE ANTIQUES & VINTAGE CENTRE

UNITS available to rent

... with 20 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

16 MARKET STREET • CREWKERNE Tel: 01460 77111

16 THE VISITOR July 2015

Quillon House Antiques, Bruton - for interesting objects.

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

Antiques, Vintage & Collecting Jewellery All Set to Sparkle

Lawrences’ forthcoming auction of jewellery on July 16th contains two lots that are both expected to sparkle.

There is a fine fancy pink diamond, weighing just over one carat. ‘Pink is the most desirable colour for a ‘fancy’ diamond,’ says

Lawrences’ jewellery specialist, Miranda Bingham.

‘The Gemological Institute of America have confirmed that it has ‘SI1’ clarity which gives it great commercial appeal. We hope that it will make £8,000 £12,000.’

A further highlight will be a

superb Victorian diamond and pearl tiara. ‘This fine piece dates from the Victorian era,’ says Miranda. Provenance is of special interest to buyers and this has passed by descent from Lady Mary Stanhope (1844-1876). The auctioneers hope that this will make £5,000 – £7,000.

A natural untreated sapphire ring in a four-claw setting, each shoulder set with three graduated round brilliant-cut diamonds sold for £5,002 (including premium) at Duke’s jewellery sale on 11th June.

Duke’s Auctioneers

There was a packed saleroom at Duke’s Auctioneers in Dorchester on 11th June when they held their jewellery auction. Bidding was competitive for many of the lots between room, phone and internet.

This superb Victorian diamond and pearl tiara is expected to make £5,000 – £7,000 in Lawrences’ jewellery auction on 16th July.

And weighing just over one carat this fine ‘fancy’ pink diamond is expected to make £8,000 – £12,000.

John Hamblin CABINET MAKERS ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORERS

A Victorian diamond and natural pearl necklace, possibly a conversion from a tiara, caused much interest. Set with round graduated pearls and square shaped diamond-set links the central section of leaf design was set overall with graduated oldcut diamonds, suspending a fringe terminating in 7 graduated natural saltwater pearls. The navette shaped clasp was set with 3 old-cut diamonds and with swan trefoil. The necklace sold for £10,980 (including premium).

We are specialists in the repair and restoration of antique furniture

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We have over 50 years experience in the trade and assure you that your furniture is in good hands Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil Somerset, BA21 5HR

01935 471154 jhamblin101@gmail.com

THE VISITOR July 2015 17

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

Robert Stone & Co.

Chartered Accountants & Tax Advisers in Ilminster answers questions from small businesses in Somerset Q1. I live in France and I am about to sell my former home in the UK, which has been let out since I emigrated in August 2001. Do I have to pay tax in the UK on the gain?

Robert Stone replies:

As you have lived abroad for nearly 14 years you will probably be treated as ‘non-resident’ in the UK for tax purposes, but we need to check that with a few more questions. If you are a nonresident, the gain would generally be exempt from UK capital gains tax (CGT). However, a new nonresident CGT applies to gains made on the disposal of residential property for 6 April 2015. This new tax only applies to the property of the gain falling after 5 April 2015.

So if you sell the property fairly shortly after April 2015 there should be little gain to tax, and the first £11,100 of the gain will be exempt from tax.

Q2. I work as a self-employed air-conditioning engineer, which involves servicing and

Samsung Notebook ...    

maintaining air-conditioning units and occasionally fitting new units. I would like to take advantage of the flat rate VAT scheme for small businesses, but I am confused as to what business category to choose. Do you have a suggestion?

Robert Stone replies:

It is crucial to choose the right business sector when registering for the flat rate scheme, as the sector can't be changed retrospectively. The higher the flat rate percentage (which is determined by the business sector), the more VAT you have to pay over to HMRC each quarter.

If the majority of your income comes from other businesses it would be sensible to choose ‘business services not listed elsewhere’ which carries a flat rate percentage of 12%. If the larger proportion of your income is from individuals then the business category ‘repairing personal or household goods’ may be more appropriate, which carries a flat rate percentage of 10%. You must choose the business category which is appropriate to the largest slice of your income, and review that decision every year on the anniversary of entering into the flat rate scheme.

Q3. Following the relaxation of the pension rules in April I took a cash lump sum from my pension

Windows 7 2 GB Memory 320 GB Hard Drive Open Office

Yeovil: 01935 507080 www.pc-zone.co.uk

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd

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

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

18 THE VISITOR July 2015

Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap

Office Equipment & Furniture Printer Inks and Toners

scheme but the pension company deducted tax from the payment. I have no other income in this tax year so I shouldn't have to pay any tax. How do I get that tax back?

Robert Stone replies:

You make a tax refund claim using one of the online forms

Haynes International Motor Museum Voted Best South West for Tourism & Leisure

Following the well-publicised £6m refurbishment and extension project which opened in April 2014, the Haynes International Motor Museum is again celebrating award success. In November 2014 the museum was the proud recipient of the prestigious International Historic Motoring Award for ‘Museum or Collection of the Year’. On Thursday 21st May the museum was again in the spotlight, this time at the RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) South West Awards, held at the Marriott Hotel, Bristol City Centre.

Against incredibly stiff competition from other tourism and leisure venues in the South West region, including Lanhydrock, River Cottage and Westonbirt Arboretum, the Somerset based museum was presented with the winner’s trophy. The judges ‘were

on the GOV.UK website designed specifically for this situation (form P55, P50Z or P53Z). The form to use depends o n whe t he r y o u ha v e o t he r income or not and whether you have taken out your entire pension pot or not. We can advise you which tax reclaim form is right for your circumstances.

impressed by the strategic thinking and careful design and delivery of the next evolution of this very well loved and increasingly popular attraction.’

The award was presented to Museum Trustee Chris Haynes and Director of Boon Brown Architects, Craig Jones by the evening’s host Alex Lovell, BBC presenter. Chris Haynes was delighted with the award and commented: ‘The project has brought more tourism and business to the area and therefore has had a really positive impact on local employment.’ Marc Haynes, CEO of the museum added ‘We have now put in place the facilities and infrastructure for the museum and the supporting commercial enterprises, including a greatly improved conference and hospitality offering, to significantly help further growth over the next decade and beyond.’

For more details please visit their website www.haynesmotor museum.com

Competitive Prices

FREE Local Delivery

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PROMOTIONS NOW AVAILABLE

Also Stockists of Lamy Sheaffer & Parker Pens Filofax & Collins Organisers Call at our shop ...

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

www.midwest-office.co.uk

BBC’s Alex Lovell presents the RICS South West Award Tourism & Leisure to Chris Haynes, Trustee of Haynes Motor Museum and Craig Jones, Director of Boon Brown Architects.

line-up and to buy tickets visit www.galhampton.com

10th Leigh Food Fair & Vintage / Classic Car Display, Saturday 18th July at Leigh Village Hall, 10am - 4pm

Taste and buy some of the best food and drink on offer from local producers. Stallholders will include:- Adam’s Tasty Chilli

Sauces, Dorset Pie Company, Dorset Shellfish Co., Dorset Sushi, Fussels Fine Foods, Reads Coffee Roasters, Percy’s Bakery, White Post Gate Honey, to name just a few.

For motoring enthusiasts there will be a variety of Veteran and Classic cars and motorbikes on display. Refreshments, Ice cream and Beer and Cider will be

Music late into the night at Galhampton’s Party in the Park.

Galhampton Party in the Park 2015 Saturday 11th July

Galhampton’s ever-popular Party in the Park is back on Saturday 11th July. Now in its 11th year, Party in the Park has been built up by a group of enthusiastic volunteers from the village to be one of the main events amongst small festivals in the south west.

The event so far has raised over £90,000 towards the village charity, which is still saving hard for a desperately needed new village hall.

Once again there will be eight great bands performing on the main stage as well as a few talented guests performing short stints in the acoustic tent.

Headlining this year is the legendary The Real Thing. The UK’s disco pioneers are sure to thrill the crowd with music old and new including smash hits such as You To Me Are Everything, Can't Get By Without You, Whenever You Want My Love and Can You Feel The Force.

Also appearing one of the UK’s best reggae roots band from the late 70s and early 80s, Talisman, who reformed in 2011 to rekindle the magic sound of the golden

Drayton Street Fair

Saturday 5th September 2015 11.00am – 4.00pm Craft & Local Produce * Stalls Wanted * 50p Entry FREE PARKING 01458 251687 (day/evening) For further details

age. Folk-punk band Ferocious Dog are guaranteed to get the crowd on their feet whilst Sam Green and the Midnight Heist will provide a wonderfully enjoyable treat with their folkblues melodies. Add to that the always popular local covers band, Full Tilt, new 7-piece reggae band Shanty, up and coming singersongwriter Will Robert and one further local act yet to be announced, the line-up is definitely one of the most diverse and best seen at the festival.

There will also be the usual broad range of high quality hot and cold food with plenty of choice at the bar and all at very reasonable prices. There will also be a selection of merchandise and the children’s activity tent will be there as always, as will the friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where all ages are welcome.

Tickets are just £20 for adults and just £2 for children aged 511, with under 5s free. Tickets usually sell out so it is recommended you get your tickets in good time. Any tickets left will be available on the gate for £25. For more details on the

Year on year, attendance steadily grows at Party in the Park, Galhampton. Have you got your ticket yet?

Bespoke Picture Framing

Artist Materials extensive stock Daler Rowney Winsor & Newton Conte and Sennelier Craft Materials

Gallery – Limited Edition Prints, Posters, etc.

Greeting Cards / Postcards

EXPERT ADVICE AND FRIENDLY SERVICE

High Street, Gillingham Tel / Fax 01747 824050

email: scenesol@aol.com • www.scenes-online.co.uk

THE VISITOR July 2015 19

interest in the painting a number of limited edition prints have been introduced. For those of you who would like to view the original, the exhibition is on display until 19th July.

The 10th Exhibition of the Wales Barn Group takes place over the weekend of 18/19th July at The Davis Hall, West Camel.

Paintings, pottery, leather, glass, turned and carved wood will all be on display. Pictured is a painting by Caroline Morrow, one of the artists exhibiting.

(See Notice Board entry).

available. Entertainment includes children’s activities.

This is proving to be a very successful show, with proceeds going to Leigh Village Hall, The Hub, Yeovil and St Andrew’s Church, Leigh. It will be opened

by Josclyn Dimbleby – a well known cookery book writer, Adults £2, children under 15 Free.

Bridgwater's Big Bash

A free one day street party for all the family on 4th July from noon - 8.30pm,11-13 Castle Street, Bridgwater TA6 3DD. A street party jammed packed with music, entertainment and activities for everyone - children and adults!

There will be nine hours of live music across two stages, including headliner acts, Ferocious Dog (gypsy folk) and Talisman (reggae); a five hour comedy-a-thon; drumming and dance workshops; a peace garden, puppet making; face painting; a market featuring 25 traders selling local products; food stands including a hog roast; an outside

bar and loads of other activities to get involved in. There will also be the Bridgwater memory tree to hang your nice memories of Bridgwater on! Bring along a token that symbolises your memory and help us celebrate independence in Bridgwater.

A full line up and further details can be found at:www. bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk/event s/event/bridgwaters-big-bash/

Fun dog show for Ham Hill Country Park in July

Ham Hill Country Park will host a Fun Dog Show on Sunday 12th July and it promises to be a really fun day out for all the family. The event is being organised by Friends of Ham Hill Country Park Donna McNeill and Sarah Cutler. Funds are being raised for the Friends of Ham Hill and also Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

Speaking about the

Moish Sokal Exhibition

There are only a few weeks left to view the new work of Moish Sokal in his Colours & Contrast Exhibition at The Malthouse Gallery, East Lambrook. Crowds (the picture in the advert), sold at the Preview and due to the

Martock Local History Group

SUMMER FETE

Millbrook Gardens CASTLE CARY Saturday 4th July

Don’t miss the Gartell Light Railway Steam & Vintage Show over the weekend of 27th & 28th June - plenty to see and savour from years gone by.

12.30 — 4pm 1pm • TAI CHI DISPLAY 2pm • CYGNET MAJORETTES Tombola  Raffle  Plants Cakes  Bric-a-Brac Clothes  B-B-Q

On Tuesday 28th July at 6pm, Martock Local History Group are holding a guided walk around Stoke sub Hamdon discussing the history of the village, its buildings and factories. Meet outside the Fleur de Lys in West Street, opposite the Memorial Hall Car Park. There is also a specialist industrial tour of Stoke on the 23rd July. Contact Fergus Dowding on 01935 822202 or Fergus.dowding@btinternet.com for more details.

Annual Charity Golf Day

... and many other stalls & attractions

For further information Phone: 01963 350092

Fete? Show? Promote your event HERE ...

20 THE VISITOR July 2015

organisation of the event, Donna and Sarah said, ‘This is the first event of this size that we have organised and so far it’s been tremendous fun. We have received an unprecedented amount of support from local businesses keen to be involved, so a heartfelt thank-you to all who have helped us so far. It has led us to meet some wonderful people who will be working with us to make this a fun day out for all the family (and the dogs!), and ultimately to bring the community together to raise funds for two really deserving local charities.

‘It’s great to enjoy a day out where your dog can be the centre of attention and we look forward to meeting all the entrants. We can’t wait to see all your creative ideas for the fancy dress class.

Whether your dog is young or old, large or small, pure bred or Heinz 57 with a great character, there will be a class for them to enjoy’.

Enjoy a family day out with activities for the children. Gates open 10am and classes start from 11am. The event sponsors are James Wellbeloved and His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

 August Issue PRINT: Thursday 30th July  DEADLINE: Friday 17th July To Advertise Tel: 01963 351256 Or Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Ilminster will be holding their popular Annual Charity Golf Day on the 28th July, to raise funds in support of Children's Hospice South West.

The competition is open to Ladies and Gentlemen and takes the form of an individual Stableford competition.

Eager golfers from across the county battle it out each year for The Rotary Challenge Cup, in addition to the opportunity of winning one of the many valuable tombola prizes donated by local businesses.

This is one of the most popular fund raising events held

throughout the year but the Club could not manage to hold this event without the generous support of local sponsors and contributors, especially Cricket St. Thomas Golf Club. Entries can be made through the ProShop at the club or directly with Rotarians David Dick 01460 55940 or davidednadick@ btinternet.com or Peter Smith 01460 241544.

Exhibition at Digby Hall

The Sherborne Art Club Open Exhibition is being held from Saturday 18th July to Sunday 26th July at The Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne. This year the opening hours have been extended and the exhibition can be viewed from 10am to 5.30pm.

The hand-in day for all submissions is Wednesday 8th July. All entry forms for both members and non members can be downloaded from the very informative website, www.sherborneartclub.com The prize giving will be held at 12.30pm on the last day of the exhibition and everyone is invited to come along and see for themselves who has won prizes and buy that painting you fell in love with before the show closes

In January 2014, Somerset photographer Matilda Temperley set about documenting the devastating floods as they spread across the Somerset Levels forcing families and businesses to evacuate in their wake. By the end of January Fordgate and Moorland had also succumbed to flood water. The stunning black and white photos illustrate the human and environmental cost and serve as a historical record. Matilda’s exhibition ‘The Floods of 2014’ can be viewed at the John Leach Gallery, Muchelney Pottery, near Langport until 1st September. (See advert in Langport feature).

at 1pm. Last year there were over 400 paintings and sculptures to choose from.

Busy, busy ... crowds are drawn to King George Street, Yeovil and the Monthly Vintage Market. Next date 4th July.

Saturday JULY 4th

9.30am – 4pm ... everyone welcome

Music, Vintage, Retro, Old & New

KING GEORGE STREET YEOVIL Opposite The Post Office

Future Dates ...

AUGUST 1st SEPTEMBER 5th THE VISITOR July 2015 21

VINTAGE Motor Cycling I START THIS MONTH with a reminder of the Blackmore Vale Revival event being held at Henstridge Airfield on Saturday 4th July from 10am to 6pm. A real nostalgia day with displays of old aircraft, cars, motorcycles, model aircraft and all manner of other things.

Plenty of refreshments and a beer tent will provide sustenance for the human body. There will be trade stalls and rural crafts and a raffle with first prize being a flight in a Tiger Moth. Children are catered for with some entertainments and a Teddy Bear Parachute Jump (I am sure the latter will appeal to the child like adults amongst us as well). A good family day out and all proceeds will be going to local charities. To display your old vehicle or for any further information ring Wendy Cable on 01963-363391.

My photograph this month was taken at the recent Weymouth Run organised by the Dorset Section of the VMCC. It shows Dave Atterbury from Honiton with his 1919 Triumph model H. You will note that the sun was shining, the sea calm and being early in the day there were few people around making for a very peaceful setting. There are still hundreds of these machines on the road.

They were made from 1915 to 1924 and around 30,000 were made for military use during the First World War. They gave such good service that they were given the nickname of 'Trusty'. They still live up to that reputation today still giving sterling service.

All had 550cc single cylinder engines of Triumph's own manufacture with a three speed gearbox, belt final drive and

MOTOR ING

Dave Atterbury from Honiton with his 1919 Triumph model H, at the recent Weymouth Run.

rather feeble brakes. The 'H' is not fast or glamorous but thoroughly dependable and a joy to ride. To me they are the archetypal early vintage machine just as I think of the Ford model T in the car world. This year the model 'H' is 100 years old and a big celebration is taking place in the north of England to mark this occasion.

July being the height of summer means there are plenty of events for us all to enjoy.

Starting with the Somerset Section they have an Open Forum for their club night on the 2nd, shortly followed on the 5th by their Veteran, Vintage and Anniversary Run from Cossington Hall. Lastly on the 16th they will enjoy an Evening Meet at Gurney Slade. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section has an evening Barbecue

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

01935 812720

Western Ways Yard Bristol Road, SHERBORNE, Dorset DT9 4HR

22 THE VISITOR July 2015

on the 13th at Shaftesbury, and on the 26th will have the On The Beaded Edge Run from Shillingstone. The Dorset Section has its Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 1st. Club night on the 8th is the very social Car and Bike Meet at Pulham. On the 12th will be the Veteran and Vintage Run which starts at Leigh Village Hall, followed on the 22nd by a Mid Week Run from the Hunters Lodge at Wincanton. Lastly on the 25th will be the Breakfast Meet back at West Stour. For more details on any of the above ring 01935-872528.

Another reminder for you concerns the Somerset Steam and Country Show to be held at Langport on the 17th/19th, with a variety of exhibits there will be something of interest to everyone.

For more details look at www.somersettractionengineclub. wordpress.com or ring 01453832001.

We have a very absorbing hobby and within our clubs there is a wealth of knowledge and experience which as a resource is often untapped. Recently at a Devon meeting we had a fascinating talk on the Norton rotary motorcycle engines. The speaker brought along various parts of engines for us to see and examine. At another talk we were told of the complexities of

chromium plating and on a different evening we learnt about shotblasting and powder coating techniques.

Other talks have been on long distance travels on two wheels or four. This is all interesting stuff, most of which will never be committed to paper, but all will be lost as we grow older. Have a look around at your club room the next time you meet, and ask a few pertinent questions and you will be amazed at what goes on around you. Most of these people will never sit down and write a book, but a few might well be persuaded to give a talk at a club night to share their knowledge and experiences.

My injured hand still prevents me from riding my old bikes, which after five months you can imagine is pretty frustrating. I have however assisted in laying out our new garden, mostly one handed, and all is looking good.

These tasks are rather alien to me but thankfully now mostly completed and so soon I shall hibernate once more back to the workshop and recommence work on my Rover motorcycle. It must be all of five years since I started this rebuild and being so slow I have become rather bored with it. A few hours back in the workshop will soon rekindle the interest, especially as I have other

projects which I am itching to get on with. Watch this space for more updates. In the meantime enjoy this hobby we have chosen.

Rod Hann.

Holiday time is approaching spare time to check all your tyres

Motorists are reducing their chances of arriving safely and on time this summer if they don’t check all their vehicle’s tyres before heading out on to the UK’s roads at one of the busiest times of year warns TyreSafe.

The not-for-profit organisation, dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of correct tyre maintenance and the dangers of defective and worn tyres, is also reminding vehicle owners that those checks should include their spare wheel. That essential inspection should ensure all tyres are at the recommended pressure for the load the vehicle will carry – and that will typically be different for a car when carrying a full load than it would when carrying just two occupants. Looking for bulges or damage and making sure the tread depth is at least above the legal limit of 1.6mm are also crucial.

When it comes to the spare wheel specifically – first of all check to see if your car has one!

A recent survey of new cars by Honest John* revealed only 8% of new cars are sold with a fullsize spare wheel, with ‘space-savers’, repair kits and run-flat tyres being the most common alternatives. However, many owners are unaware their car is equipped with one of these options, and will be unsure of what to do should they suffer a puncture or blowout.

The absence of a spare wheel has led to a dramatic rise in callouts to the breakdown recovery services, who are often extremely busy.

The RAC has reported the number of callouts annually to assist drivers with a puncture but no spare wheel rose from 29,000

MOTOR ING

in 2010 to 118,000 in 2014 and that number is forecast to rise again this year to 144,000.

With numbers of tyre-related callouts on the increase, in addition to the usual demands on breakdown recovery services, drivers who fail to check their tyres before setting off for a holiday risk finding themselves stranded by the roadside or involved in easily preventable tyre-related incidents.

To help drivers remember the essentials, TyreSafe has compiled the essential tyre checklist: Pressure: Is the vehicle’s pressure at the right level for the load? Check with your car’s owners’ manual or even the sticker in the fuel flap may have this.

If you don’t: You will use more fuel than necessary, increase wear and the risk of losing control of the vehicle.

Tread depth: The law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central threequarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire circumference of the tyre. A simple way to check is using TyreSafe’s 20p test. Insert the 20p coin into the main tyre grooves at several places around the circumference of the tyre and across its width. If the outer band of the 20p coin is visible whenever you check the tread, your tread depth may be illegal and you should have them checked by a qualified tyre specialist.

If you don’t: You can face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre, and reduce the amount of control you will have when braking and cornering.

Condition: Drivers are advised to inspect the tyre for signs of irregular wear or damage such as cuts, lumps or bulges.

If you don’t: You risk driving with a defective tyre which can lead to a blowout.

Spare wheel: Do you have a spare wheel? If not, do you know how you will deal with a puncture or blowout? Unless you plan on using the breakdown services,

take the time to read your manual to learn how to properly use tyre sealants, compressor/inflation kits, or run flat tyres. If in any doubt, contact a reputable tyre retailer for clarification.

If you do have a full-sized spare or a space saver tyre, you should check it’s properly inflated; its tread depth is above the legal limit; and it’s in good working condition (remember speed restrictions will apply to space savers). Don’t forget to be sure you have a functioning jack and tyre brace.

If you don’t: You could easily waste time by the roadside waiting for assistance you could have avoided if you’d checked before you left.

For more information about how to perform pre-travel safety checks and a range of easy-tounderstand videos & animations visit: www.tyresafe.org

Peugeot celebrate 30 years of the 205 GTI

This special-edition 208 marks the 30th birthday of the original Peugeot 205 GTI. Originally an attempt by Peugeot to enter the ‘hot hatch’ market dominated by the VW Golf GTI, Renault 5 Turbo and the Mini Cooper, the 205 GTI was a big hit commercially and very popular

with the now grown up boy racers of the 1980s and 1990s. The new 208 GTI, despite having double the power of the 205 GTI, can only reach 62mph a meager one second quicker (6.8 seconds).

However, it has to be said much has been improved in the 30 years since the 205 GTI. The 208 GTI is safer, more economic, has lowered suspension, halogen headlights with daytime running lights, huge 17” alloy wheels, DAB radio, air-con and rear parking sensors as standard.

Inside you get a real leather steering wheel with red stitching, sports seats and a satin-finish chrome gearstick.

With many more ‘hot-hatches’ on the market than 30 years ago when the 205 GTI was launched, Peugeot could have done a lot worse with this latest revamp.

For those who are looking for something sporty in this price range, you might want to consider the Ford Focus ST or a Mini Cooper S. For more information on the new 208 GTI visit your local Peugeot dealer or www.peugeot.co.uk/208-GTI. Price: £21,995 Engine capacity: 1.6-litre petrol Power output: 205bhp Top speed: 143mph Fuel economy: 52.3mpg CO2 emissions: 125g/km

The Special Edition Peugeot 208 GTI.

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

THE VISITOR July 2015 23

MARTOCK – a business focus SITUATED JUST ONE and a half miles from the A303, the lively and bustling village of Martock can be found between the old Roman towns of Ilchester and Ilminster.

Four hamlets abut the village Hurst and Bower Hinton to the south and Coat and Stapleton to the north, all forming part of Martock. The parish church of All Saints is famous for its lofty nave and for its magnificent carved roof and brings many visitors to the village. There are also plenty of attractive hamstone buildings for visitors to admire along with a fine selection of shops and individual businesses. And of course, another thing Martock is famous for - its Martock Bean!

Petwood & Little Wings

Pet wood is on Nort h st reet Martock and has all you need for your family pet with a

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 Free Parking Outside

Sports action on the big screen with surround sound. There is also a separate room with Pool Table and Jukebox.

For buffets and functions please contact Tracy or Simon.

Richard P. Kemp, B.A. Solicitor

Love Birds, hand-reared by Louise Clarke, proprietor of Little Wings.

comprehensive range of leading brands including James Wellbeloved, Royal Canin, Burns and much 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 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.

The Rose and Crown Bower Hinton, Martock 01935 822393

Open Tuesday to Sunday – All Day from 12pm

Home Cooked FOOD available from £6 + Baguettes & Jacket Potatoes FISH ‘n’ CHIP Friday served 5pm – 8pm, £6

Fortnightly Friday QUIZ  Regular LIVE MUSIC Come and watch all the sporting action on our Large TV Screen with Surround Sound

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.

The Rose & Crown

The Rose & Crown is a traditional village pub in Bower Hinton, open Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon to close.

Good home-cooked food is available from the Bar Menu from £6, Baguettes and Jacket Potatoes are also available.

Every Friday is Fish ‘n’ Chip night served 5pm – 8pm, plus keep an eye out for the monthly Curry night. You will also find a good selection of drinks available including two Real Ales; St Austell Tribute plus a Guest Ale. Regular entertainment includes a popular fortnightly Friday Evening Quiz plus regular Live Music, details can be found at www.therosiebowerhinton.co.uk If you’re into live sport you can watch all the live Sky and BT

The firm of Richard P. Kemp, B.A., Solicitor has been established in the pleasant country town of Martock since 1986. It is the successor to a continuous line of legal practitioners in the town for more than 160 years and it has been at its present premises for upwards of 50 years. It strives to deliver a high quality, efficient and friendly legal service to everyone at a reasonable price.

All types of legal work, are undertaken - no problem is too small or too large. The loyal and helpful staff are always pleased to help clients, both old and new.

Country Build SW Ltd

Located in the heart of Somerset, Country Build SW prides itself on providing exceptional workmanship and extensive experience coupled with a thorough understanding of the build process and restoration of properties located in the country.

Whether it may be a full extension on a listed building, a new build, or restoring and maintaining existing properties, Country Build sympathetically and professionally take you through the entire process from conception to completion.

All work is fully insured and guaranteed so you can always be sure of peace of mind. No hidden extras.

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION With over 30 years of building experience

www.therosiebowerhinton.co.uk

RICHARD P. KEMP B.A. Solicitor

Quality assured legal advice and services for private and corporate clients.

Tel: (01935) 822572

31 North Street, Martock, Somerset TA12 6DH

24 THE VISITOR July 2015

— 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

MARTOCK – a business focus

Velvet Interiors

It’s all change at Velvet Interiors in Martock. Jane, the upholsterer is relocating so the decision has been taken to close the interiors shop in North Street.

Iain Pearce will continue to offer a furniture painting and kitchen painting service as well as antique furniture restoration from his workshop at 53 East Street, Martock, trading as Bluebell Antiques and Vintage Furniture.

He will also continue his popular furniture painting workshops demonstrating how to create the shabby chic effect on your own furniture. These can be held at your home or other venue if you are organising an event, or at Iain’s workshop in Martock.

Please ring 01935 826137 or 07875 262995 for more details. www.bluebellantiques.co.uk

Yandles Woodworking and Craft Centre at Hurst

On Saturday 18th July, Yandle’s, of Hurst, Martock are hosting their Hobby and Craft Show (with free entry and parking). There will be lots of demonstrations of craft from knitting, crochet and felting, to watercolours and oils, dorset button making and much more. Bite sized workshops will give you the opportunity to come

Prints ★ Paintings ★ Bronzes ★ Mirrors ★ Framing Passport Photographs ★ Prints to Canvas

Peacock Splendour - a unique edition of 195 by Kerry Darlington, the UK's original 3D resin artist.

Size framed 27in x 45in. Available from Martock Gallery in Water Street.

and have a go with our expert demonstrators. We will be launching our colouring competition sponsored by GMC who have also donated some fantastic enlarged colouring sheets for everyone to join in with on the day. We will have some wonderful artwork by Sarah Weyman, who is one of our demonstrators, also for something

completely new we have fused and stained glass demonstrations.

More information available on our website www.yandles.co.uk

/upcoming-events/70-hobby-craftshow or contact us on 01935 822207, or e-mail info@yandles. co.uk

‘Martock’ by Rebecca Stidson • Original Framed £215 Also available as limited edition giclee print

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

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

9.30am – 4pm

01935 822207 www.yandles.co.uk

FREE ENTRY

Formerly within Velvet Interiors has relocated to

53 East Street, Martock, TA12 6NG

ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORATION SPECIALIST including ... French Polishing, Cabinet Work, Renewing Leather on Desks etc.

TOCK rks, MAR Hurst Wo t, TA12 6JU Somerse

Furniture & Kitchen Painting Commissions Chalk Paint Workshops – group or one to one For full details call 01935 826137 or 07875 262995 www.bluebellantiques.co.uk THE VISITOR July 2015 25

A2B Mobility

MARTOCK – a business focus

A2B Mobility of Martock offer a wide choice of scooters to suit all requirements. Some secondhand scooters are also available.

A family-run business, A2B Mobility offer a full range of mobility products both large and small, from slippers and shopping trolleys to rise and recline chairs and stairlifts.

Servicing is done on the premises.

Why not pop in and discuss your requirements in person there is ample free parking outside the door.

The Nags Head

The Nags Head is situated in East Street, just a short distance from Martock Post Office. With summer upon us why not dine alfresco in the picturesque walled gardens?

The lounge and bar serves a wide range of home-cooked food. Try a Sizzling Garlic Rump Skillet. Also their local Faggots - delicious. The £5 Lunch Menu is great value.

Food is served every lunchtime from Noon - 2pm, Monday -

Bower Hinton Farm Shop, where you will find a wonderful selection of fresh vegetables and fruit and much more besides.

Thursday evenings 6pm - 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 6pm.

There is always a good choice of

SAVE MONEY ON SECOND-HAND

SCOOTERS ... prices from only £200 Good Selection of New Scooters in Stock

Stair Lifts for Sale or Rental

including installation

 Full Range of

Say you saw it in The Visitor

The White Hart Hotel

The delicious French/English cuisine offered at the White Hart reflects the chefs’ care and imagination in cooking fresh local ingredients. From light snacks, to the £6.95 Bistro specials and the restaurant menu, the food is superb and the atmosphere always welcoming.

The White Hart is in The Good

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Still Picking Home Grown Strawberries ...

Also Harvesting: Bunched Carrots Broad Beans, Cabbage, Broccoli Harvesting Soon: Cauliflower, Courgettes Vine Tomatoes CIDERS – Perrys, Ham Hill, Harrys • BBQ MEATS Good range of PLANTS – COMPOST  Enjoy a COFFEE and locally made CAKE 

 01935 827743

Daily Living Aids Walking Sticks, Slippers Rails, etc.

www.bowerhintonfarmshop.co.uk

The NAGS HEAD

 Rise & Recline Chairs  Service & Repairs On all Makes and Models of Scooters

YOUR INDEPENDENCE IS OUR BUSINESS • VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS LARGE FREE CAR PARK RIGHT OUTSIDE

Units 1 & 2 Great Western Road MARTOCK

0800 731 7078

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm, Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm • Closed Bank Holidays

Other times by appointment • Tel: 07917 145838 / 07917 145839

26 THE VISITOR July 2015

real ales, wines and ciders to enjoy, also a Sunday Evening Quiz with snacks. There is ample parking and wheelchair access to the inn.

Dawn and Steve look forward to welcoming you. For buffets, skittles etc., please telephone for enquiries and bookings.

East Street, Martock • Tel: 01935 823432

Just down from your local Post Office Home Cooked Meals, Ploughmans & Salads All Week £5 Mid-Week Lunches Specials Board, Vegetarian and Kids Menus also available

Traditional Sunday Roast from £7.50 Fun Quiz every Sunday Evening Public Bar with Pool & Darts Open All Day Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays Beautiful Secluded Walled Garden Bookings Advised • Small Buffets • Guest Ales

MARTOCK

A new business to the Martock area is Owl Obsession run by Anna Paine who has been working with birds of prey for 6 years. Owl Obsession offers owl experience sessions for all. Weddings, Fetes, Care Homes, Schools, birthday surprises - to find out more give Anna a call or visit their facebook page.

Beer Guide and enjoys promoting local real ales.

Definitely recommendeded for food lovers and those who like relaxing in a friendly village pub.

Not to be missed is their 14th July Special night, a family friendly al fresco dining ...weather permitting! Check the Martock White Hart Facebook page.

Bradfords Building Supplies

Bradfords Building Supplies has a long history in the town, dating back to the mid 1800’s, with a yard on the Taunton-Yeovil railway line, supplying coal, corn, timber and building materials until 1964. Now, more than 50 years later, they are proud to be back, and look forward to working alongside the community once again.

The team at Martock can meet all your requirements, from bricks, timber and drainage, to sand, cement, tools and ironmongery. They will also be stocking an extensive range of heating and plumbing supplies,

bought to you in partnership with the specialist knowledge of their new colleagues from YPS. Their nearby branches ensure Big & Bulky products can be delivered to home or site within a couple of days. They also offer an Express Delivery service on a wide range of their products. Pop in to branch to find out more.

There will be an Official Open Day on Wednesday 8th July with special offers in store, product demonstrations, goody bags and refreshments. All Welcome.

Owl experience sessions for all School visits  Home visits Weddings  Fetes Surprise visits and more!

Call: 07950 717933

WHITE HART HOTEL Renowned for High Quality Food, Inventive Cuisine & Fresh Fish ...

Peter and Isabelle Halkyard welcome you to the FREEHOUSE

East Street, Martock • 01935 822005

u u u Accommodation - Function Room / Skittle Alley

Bistro Lunches - £ 6.95 Evenings - A La Carte Menu Specials Bar Meals - £ 8.95 ✳ SUNDAY LUNCHES ✳ 1 Course £ 8.95 • 2 Course £ 10.95 • 3 Course £ 12.95 ( No food Sunday Evenings or Mondays)

www.whiteharthotelmartock.co.uk

THE VISITOR July 2015 27

In and around South Petherton THE RESIDENTS of the village of South Petherton are well served with shops and businesses to solve most day-to-day needs, culinary dilemmas or household problems. Plus the jewel in South Petherton’s crown, The David Hall, which offers music, films, dancing and much more besides.

Here is the line-up for July.

On Friday 3rd at 8pm, Petherton

Picture Show presents The Theory of Everything, the extraordinary story of the renowned astrophysicist, Stephen Hawking.

Starring Eddie Redmayne in his Oscar-winning role.

Saturday 4th at 8pm, Chris & Kellie While. The world class vocals of internationally-lauded Chris While and the uncannily similar quality of daughter,

For the very latest televisions - visit H R Hodge of South Petherton.

Kellie, combine for an evening of unforgettable live music. Their pleasure in singing together is obvious and when they duet, it's easy to lose sight of who is who even though, separately, they have their own distinctive sound and style.

Friday 17th at 8pm. Petherton Picture Show presents What we did on our Holiday, starring David Tennant, Rosamund Pike, Billy Connolly, Celia Imrie and Ben Miller.

Saturday 25th at 8pm, The Paperboys, supported by Dan Webster. Formed in Vancouver

by Mexican-born Tom Landa, The Paperboys fuse Folk, Celtic and Bluegrass music with Pop and Rock. Dan Webster is a seasoned English singer/songwriter, described by Americana UK as 'A Hybrid of Damien Rice, Seth Lakeman and Tom McRae.' Friday 31st at 8pm, The Peatbog Faeries - 'A Chance to Dance' event. Back at The David Hall for their fourth visit, The Peatbog Faeries are the figurehead trailblazers of the Celtic Dance Music renaissance.

Drawing upon influences from

traditional Jigs and Reels through Jazz, Hip Hop, Reggae and more, they take traditional Scottish music and bring it freshfaced and breathless into the 21st century. This is high-octane Celtic dance music as you’ve never heard it before so be prepared to dance!

Friday 24th at 7.30pm is Performance Night. All styles and forms of performance welcome – not just music. If you wish to perform please drop them an email at folk@chriswatts.org to secure a slot – although a place cannot always be guaranteed as the popularity of this event keeps growing.

Wednesday 29th 10am – 12noon Coffee Morning, pop in for a cup of real coffee and a chat.

Look around the book and brica-brac stalls and more often than not, listen to some live music.

Entry is free.

Tickets for the above performances can be booked and paid for via the website www.thedavidhall.org.uk or they can be reserved by calling 01460 240340 or by e-mailing: boxoffice@ thedavidhall.org.uk

Rainbows over South Petherton Church. Photo by Mo Cutler.

Twenty-Nine - Artistry and Floristry

28 THE VISITOR July 2015

01460 242840 twentynineinfo@gmail.com www.twentynineshop.com

Twenty Nine will have completed its first year of trading in June.

Proprietor Amber Pritchard makes unusual and personalised textile gifts, such as linen tidy baskets, bunting and cushions.

Visit her website www.handmade byamberonline.com where you can see her complete range. In addition to her own crafts Amber sells crafts by local/British artists

In and around South Petherton such as gold and silver jewellery, coasters and placemats, animal print lampshades, wooden postcards, pottery and painted canvases.

Fresh flowers are always available and bouquets and special arrangements can be made to order. Local delivery available - do call in, there are lots of gift ideas.

The Royal Oak

Situated on the outskirts of South Petherton is the charming Royal Oak Inn run by Chris and his wife Jill.

Originally built in the 1600's as a farmhouse, the Royal Oak was later converted to farm workers cottages. Around the 1850's it received a licence to become a beerhouse.

Nearly 160 years later this attractive thatched pub with its Hamstone walls, flagstone floors and solid oak beams serves more than beer. A wide range of ales and wines compliment an extensive home-cooked menu.

Wednesdays and Thursdays are Surf, Turf, Swine & Wine nights. A choice of rump steak, battered haddock or gammon steak with a carafe of wine. Any two for just £22.50 A choice of 3 roasts are served Sunday lunchtimes and evenings.

A delicious new summer menu has just been introduced featuring favourites such as a cold meat platter, herb crusted salmon and sweet and sour chicken. A two course lunch is just ££8.95 available Tuesdays to Saturdays.

There is something to suit all tastes from vegetarian dishes,

The Visitor can be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

through to fish, steaks and homemade pies!

Going on holiday? Check out the bookcase for your holiday reading - all proceeds to a local charity. There is a large car park and a spacious patio area.

New Cross Fruit Farm

New Cross Fruit Farm has been a specialist fruit farm run by the Hebditch family since 1948.

William and Liz are the second generation farming 170 acres atop the first range of hills south of the Somerset Levels, and their deep and fertile sandy clay loam allows them to grow a range of fruits and asparagus.

During the picking season they run a small farm gate outlet and their produce is also available at numerous independent retailers and restaurants throughout the south west.

William and Liz pride themselves on growing the best quality produce, all picked and packed by hand on site. They grow a wide variety of produce and love to see old and new faces alike enjoying the fruits of their labour.

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

During July we will be picking our Cherries, Raspberries, Plums, Blackberries, Currants & Gooseberries

One World

Add a splash of colour to your home with one of the lovely rag rugs in a wonderful choice of colours available upstairs at One World. Here you will also find cheerful woven throws and bedspreads, embroidered cushions, floor lamps made of

rattan, wall hangings and wooden carvings.

For the garden there is a wide range of lamps, wooden trugs and very useful at this time of year wasp catchers!

Many items at One World are Fair Trade. Ten percent of sales from the Gringo range of felt

Colourful rugs a-plenty at One World, along with a wonderful selection of gifts and home accessories from around the world.

17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166

DELICIOUS NEW LUNCHTIME MENU Including ... Cold Meat Platter Herb Crusted Salmon Sweet & Sour Chicken ... and more!

2 Course LUNCHES £8.95 Tuesday to Saturday Wednesday & Thursday Special

SURF, TURF, SWINE and WINE NIGHT

2 Rump STEAKS or 2 Beer Battered HADDOCK or 2 Gammon STEAKS or ANY 2 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 July 2015 29

In and around South Petherton products such as bags and fairy dolls from Nepal will go towards aid for the Nepalese Earthquake.

There is something for everyone at One World - hemp shirts for the gents, jewellery for the ladies, puppets and other traditional toys for the children, enchanting mobiles featuring a host of different animals including elephants and dolphins for the baby - plus cards, stationery, ceramics, glass and much more!

Beehive Self Storage

Beehive Self Storage is based on Lopen Business Park situated less than 5 minutes away from Crewkerne and the A303. Our storage units are modern and purpose-built with alarm monitoring and CCTV. The size of units range from 20-260 square feet for commercial or domestic use, so we will be able to accommodate you with just the Phil the Fish is a new business.

Fresh fish, seafood, homemade fishcakes and pates are all on sale.

Pop in and see Jackie (pictured) for your fresh fish requirements.

right size. You can access your unit for free and as much as you like during opening hours; and sack trucks and trolleys are available to make access to your unit as easy as possible. We stock a wide range of packaging materials for those who are moving house. We also have a store in Blandford and our newest store is situated on Priorswood Road in Taunton, which will eventually have around 600 Storage units to let. Should you need storage for any reason, please feel free to drop into your nearest Beehive to look around with no obligation to book a unit.

Philip J Pearce Quality Fishmonger

Selling a wide seasonal range of ...

Fresh Fish • Smoked Fish • Shellfish Come and say hello to Jackie and the team Try something tasty from the Seafood Deli Counter or something from the homemade range of Fish Pies, Patés and Fishcakes

5 St. James Street, South Petherton 01460 249562 Email: philthefish5@gmail.com

The old and the new ... premises that is, of Eternal Kitchens.

Visit their new showrooms today!

Beautiful Kitchens Made in Somerset

Come and visit our new workshop and showroom The Old Yard Logge Farm, West Street South Petherton TA13 5DJ

KITCHENS & FURNITURE HANDCRAFTED IN SOMERSET

30 THE VISITOR July 2015

 01460 241261

email: info@eternalkitchens.co.uk www.eternalkitchens.co.uk

The Robell trouser range recently introduced to Preview of Wincanton and Langport have been flying off their hangers!

Available in both full length and capri these pull-on trousers come in a rainbow of colours including colbalt, fuchsia, mint, white, and black.

Made of a stretch fabric they ensure a perfect fit. Comfortable to wear they are ideal for holidays / travelling yet smart enough for evening wear. At only £49 they are this summers wardrobe essential.

• imbalance was administering these ‘tissue salts’.

The beauty of this range, is that as well as being suitable for those on medications, they are also safe during pregnancy and for babies. The tablets are chewable and therefore easy to take for those who don’t like swallowing tablets or the taste of liquids. They can also be given to animals. The tablets contain lactose making them unsuitable

Family Health Jenna Evans

~ 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 * Please note new time

SPARKFORD Village Hall Fridays 12.45pm – 5.45pm Lance Wells & Mike Baker State Registered ~ or ~

★ PHONE for a HOME VISIT ★ 01935 814074 or ...

07767 027798 (mobile)

Summer Fashion With Style Call in and see our complete range

Tissue Salts

GENTS & BOYS HAIRDRESSING

for vegans or the lactose intolerant - however you can buy lactose free liquid preparations as an alternative. The usual adult dose is 1 tablet, 4 times per day.

For acute issues 1 dose can be

taken every half an hour for 6 doses. Children have half the adult dose and babies a quarter of the adult dose (tablets can be dissolved in a little water). So let’s have a quick overview of the remedies.

Calc Fluor (Calcium Fluoride) - For elasticity. Any relaxed conditions of the tissues e.g. varicose veins, piles, poor circulation, loose muscles / connective tissue.

With an exciting selection of Hats and Fascinators

with

We’re taking a break from our medicines series this month to take a look at the homoeopathically prepared range of tissue salts. This range of products is especially useful for those on medications as they are considered safe to take with prescribed and OTC drugs, as well as a good support alongside other remedies and therapies.

Tissue salts were developed in the 19th century by a German physician, Dr Schuessler. His theory was that an imbalance of these substances in the body created disease and that the easiest way to correct such an

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Robell Trousers go down a storm in Preview!

Beautiful lingerie in a wide range of cup sizes and styles available from Amour of Wincanton.

A professional bra fitting service is offered. In addition to lingerie Amour have an excellent choice of swimwear and sleepwear. Do call in and browse - helpful and friendly advice always on hand.

fashion boutique & designer room

Shopping Parade • Langport  01458 252010

Market Place • Wincanton  01963 31676

25%

OFF ALL SWIMWEAR A – GG cup size

7 Market Place, Wincanton, BA9 9LL Tel: 01963 32808 • www.amour-lingerie.co.uk

THE VISITOR July 2015 31

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• oxygenating the tissues, strengthening blood vessels, clearing congestion, antiinflammatory. May benefit racing hearts, fevers and anaemia (note it does not contain discernable

Robert Frith Optometrists of Wincanton are now offering a home visiting service in the Mere area. Pictured are the Wincanton Team: John McLaughlin Optometrist, Lysa Moore, right, Dispensing Optician, Rachel Sorrentino, seated, receptionist. Key member Kelly Lucas Optometrist not shown.

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Calc Phos (Calcium Phosphate) - For bone health. To build bones, teeth, connective tissue, blood and gastric juices.

Chilblains and pruritus (itchy skin) may also benefit.

Calc Sulph (Calcium Sulphate) - The blood cleanser.

Liver supporting. Useful for ‘toxic’ headaches and neuralgia. Skin eruptions, acne and catarrh.

Ferr Phos (Phosphate of Iron) - The first aid remedy. For

quantities of iron so do not use this as an alternative to iron supplements).

Kali Mur (Potassium Chloride) - A glandular tonic. Lymphatic support. Thick white / greyish discharge are indicative of this remedy. May be used for sore ulcerated throats, tonsillitis, catarrhal infections, middle ear infections & white coating on the tongue. Also inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system.

Kali Phos (Potassium Phosphate) - The nerve tonic. For headaches, sleep problems anxiety, depression and digestive distress when they are due to ‘nerves’. Also for shingles, sciatica and neuralgia.

Kali Sulph (Potassium Sulphate) - The skin balancer.

Affinity for the lining of the skin and the internal mucus

membranes. Yellow or green discharges are indicative of this remedy. Coating on the tongue, catarrh, scaly skin, athlete’s foot, chills and pains which wander about the body.

Mag Phos (Magnesium Phosphate) - The muscle and nerve tonic. A popular remedy for cramps and restless legs.

Spasmodic or shooting pains, all nerve or muscle related pains, fibromyalgia, polymyalgia rheumatica, sciatica, shingles, neuralgia and menstrual cramps may all benefit.

Nat Mur (Sodium Chloride) For fluid balance. Influences the distribution of water throughout the body. Excessive moisture or dryness in any area points to the use of this remedy as does the craving for, or aversion to, salt in foods. Thirst, slow digestion, watery mucus, sensitive eyes prone to tearing, excess saliva.

Nat Phos (Sodium Phosphate) - The acid neutraliser. All conditions that may be associated with excess acidity - digestive troubles, rheumatism, poor nutrient absorption. Also for

Are you in need of a sight test?

Are you unsteady on your feet and prone to falling?

WE WILL COME TO YOU!

We are pleased to offer home visits in Mere and the surrounding areas.

For a full domiciliary sight test in the comfort of your own home call ...

Lysa or Rachel 01963 31259 16 Market Place WINCANTON

NHS & Private Sight Tests Available In Store Advice on dry eyes, nutritional supplements, magnifiers and lighting

32 THE VISITOR July 2015

Currently a candidate for Miss Vintage UK, Lois Wickett of Wells Trading Post, vintage interiors and fashion, in West Street.

Jenna is an Holistic Health Coach and

creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical

Beauty UK’. Jenna is also a multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an

appointment, please pop in or call 01935

428791 for details. Find Ceres on Facebook as ‘Ceres Natural Foods Ltd’.

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.

Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts

It’s sale time at Hanson’s – with plenty of bargains to be snapped up. Now is the ideal time to stock up on your particular craft requirements - balls of knitting yarn from 50p - 99p, knitting patterns from 10p, plus half price craft fabrics! Not sure what to make? There are craft books on offer too.

Do call in and see for yourself.

There are beads, paper, cards, kits, threads and much more.

Helpful advice is always available. Ask about their Sew What's New Programme – there is a class for just about every sewing occasion, from curtain

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• making to making a fascinator – but hurry, classes are small and get booked up very quickly!

H&M Opens in Yeovil

H & M, Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M), is delighted to open a new store in Yeovil. The store, situated in the Quedam Shopping Centre, is opening today (Thursday 25th June at 11am).

To celebrate, customers in the queue will receive a wristband entitling them to 25% off all products in store during opening day.

The store occupies a sales area of 14,000 square feet and covers two floors offering H&M collections for ladies, men, teenagers and children. The opening has created around 25 new jobs in a mix of full and part time positions.

‘We’re delighted to be opening in Yeovil, offering local residents affordable fashion and quality clothing for the whole family’, says Carlos Duarte, Country Manager H&M UK & IE. ‘It’s exciting to continue to expand nationwide, throughout the UK, reaching both new and also existing customers in their hometowns and cities.’

Launch day has an abundance of fun activities in-store for everyone to enjoy whilst shopping. On launch morning, goody bags will be handed out to customers in the queue. There will also be a DJ on the decks throughout the day and plenty of fun activities for the little ones, including balloon-modelling and face painting between 11am 5pm.

H&M has been present in the UK since 1976, and now has a

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jaundice, colic and the removal or uric acid deposits (such as found with gout).

Nat Sulph (Sodium Sulphate) - The fluid eliminator. For oedema, bile flow, liver support, biliousness, rheumatism and ‘flu.

Silica (Silica) - The cleanser & conditioner. Found in the skin, hair, nails, connective tissue, bones, nerves and blood. Brittle nails, thinning hair, pus formation, boils, styes, uric acid deposits may benefit. Also used for both suppressed perspiration and offensive perspiration.

Pop into your local health foods store for more information. That’s all for this month, see you next time!

Jenna Evans ©2015.

portfolio of 251 locations across the UK and Republic of Ireland as well as their largest store hm.com

Reader Offer TO MARK the opening of the H&M store in Yeovil The Visitor has 5 x £50 vouchers to give away. All you have to do is

The facade of Yeovil’s reputable and long-established jewellers Ward & Sibley. Here you will find beautiful rings and necklaces, earrings and watches, statement pieces to complete that special outfit and gifts suitable for any occasion. Ward & Sibley also offer a bespoke service, plus jewellery repairs and valuations. There is parking at the rear for customers.

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil

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

 Complete refurbishment of jewellery –

soldering charms onto bracelets, sizing rings, repairing chains, jewellery cleaning

 Watch and clock repairs including battery replacements

 Jewellery handmade to your own design  Jewellery re-modelled

 Seal, hand, and machine engraving

 Valuations for insurance and probate  Pearl and bead re-threading

For a prompt, reliable & friendly service THE CASKET 103 MIDDLE STREET YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065

Car park at rear for customers while visiting the shop

THE VISITOR July 2015 33

OR FREE SPARE PAIR with any frame from our £75 range or above

EYES RIGHT OPTICIANS St. Audries Station Road, Gillingham Tel: 01747 831010

3 Market Place Sturminster Newton

Tel: 01258 473992 LOW PRICES AND QUALITY SERVICE

*30% OFF spectacles applies when choosing any frame from our £75 range or above. Excludes “free spare pair / prescription sunglasses” offer.

Pick up a leaflet or ask our staff for full offer details.

34 THE VISITOR July 2015

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FREE PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES

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answer the following question: What do the letters H&M stand for?

Send your entry by email to: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk or post to H&M Competition, The Visitor Magazine, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG to arrive by Friday 10th July. The first five correct entries picked from the hat will win.

State-of-the-Art diagnostic equipment for Grace Haine Eye Care in Stalbridge

Thanks to a grant from the North Dorset Council’s Economic Growth Fund, Grace Haine Eyecare, the independent eye care practice based on Ring Street, has introduced Digital Retinal Photography. This advanced eye care and retinal photographic technology can identify conditions and monitor eye health.

The retina can be seriously affected by many common diseases including age-related macular degeneration, diabetes and glaucoma, which can lead to visual impairment and even blindness.

By having this technology available in practice, the eye care professionals at Grace Haine Eye Care will be able to pick up any problems at a much earlier stage, so patients can be diagnosed and referred for further treatment quickly. Regular retinal photographs mean that patients will also have an ongoing record of their eye health so any changes are recognised promptly.

With this new technology in place, Grace Haine Eyecare is now able to take part in the Dorset Diabetic Eye Screening Service. This means that local people with diabetes will be able to visit them for a quicker, more convenient service when they require their annual diabetic eye

screening. For more information please visit www.grace haineeyecare.co.uk

Perri Ashby Fashion Designer

Getting the balance and proportion right in your outfit is of the utmost importance if you are to feel relaxed and confident, whatever the occasion. Whether its the length of a jacket or skirt, the size of your hat, or the height of the heels on your shoes.

As a professional designer, Perri Ashby will oversee all the fittings and ensure that the style chosen by the client will particularly flatter their best assets. With her many years of experience as a designer, Perri Ashby has builtup an enviable reputation offering personal attention to clients who travel from a wide area to see her at her Sherborne premises.

Perfect for a Summer wedding ... an attractive outfit by designer Perri Ashby of Sherborne.

Step out in style this summer Garden Party? Wedding? Henley?

Whatever the occasion ...

DESIGNER

®

Bespoke or Ready-to-Wear Collection Full Range of Accessories Half Moon Street, Sherborne, DT9 3LN Tel: 01935 812927 www.perriashby.co.uk

L A NGPORT

TRADITIONAL independent shops still predominate in Langport’s town centre, some occupying the intriguing mixture of buildings that line Bow Street and Cheapside and others round the corner on North Street and in the modern Parrett Close arcade facing the Town Square.

Despite the presence of a Tesco store, Langport still boasts enough small shops to stir memories of how country towns used to be. Strolling across Town Square from the free Cocklemoor car park to the Town Hall I noticed on the short parade of shops a butcher, a baker, a shop full of stylish ladieswear and fashion accessories, a fish-andchips shop, a convenience store, hairdressing salon, estate agent, travel agent and the aptly-named Kitchen.

From the Town Hall I wandered up Cheapside where I found, among others, Maya fashion boutique, the Langport Stores packed with speciality foods, health foods and tempting indulgences, Florin selling

The businesses on Cheapside occupy buildings of an attractive mix of architectural styles.

They say it’s difficult to find a

GOOD GARAGE

River Parrett Langport

so here is a map to help you ...

Westover Trading Estate

L MC

Curry Rivel

A378

Servicing & Repairs on All Makes of Car Citroën and Peugeot Specialists

Collection & Delivery Service • Courtesy Car Available Full Electronic Diagnostics

Pre -M.O.T. Preparation Work Undertaken NEED A CAR WASH OR A VACUUM?

Our Car Washes & Car Vacuum are the most powerful for miles!

Open 24 hours 7 days a week

Batteries ★ Tyres ★ Exhausts

Open Monday – Friday 8am – 5.30pm • Saturday Appointments Only

LANGPORT MOTOR COMPANY Prop. Richard White

WESTOVER TRADING ESTATE LANGPORT, SOMERSET, TA10 9RB

Tel: 01458 251100 • Email: langportmotors@btconnect.com

THE VISITOR July 2015 35

L A NGPORT

furnishings and fabrics, the Art Tea Zen café which seemed to be doing good business when I passed, Lafleure Antiques and Decoration with what it describes as ‘fine, unusual antique decorative items to stimulate your senses’ in two shops opposite each other, and the post office. Sadly Keeble’s bookshop, a feature of Cheapside for a decade or more, relocated to Wellington some months ago but the premises are now occupied by the Boilertec hardware store.

The businesses on Cheapside occupy buildings of an attractive mix of architectural styles.

Likewise those on Bow Street, the main A378 Taunton road running along the original causeway that linked Langport with the River Parrett. In the main streets of many medieval towns space became increasingly valuable from the 13th century onwards, so there was a tendency to create sites with narrow frontages on to the street but with great depth behind. In Langport

Traditional & Quirky Gifts for everyone...especially men Open: Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm ~ DO POP IN ~

The Old Register Office, Bow Street Langport, TA10 9PR

Chalmers

&CO

 01458 252914 www.eustaceandarthur.co.uk

chartered accountants

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Personal & Business Tax Advisors Business Start Ups Payroll Bureau Accounting & Audit Specialists Full Business Support Services VAT Returns & Advice

Free initial consultation

A personal and friendly approach to business that will work for you Visit our website at

www.chalmersaccountants.co.uk or email us on

info@chalmersaccountants.co.uk Offices at Yeovil, Crewkerne & Langport 01460 279000 36 THE VISITOR July 2015

Bow Street, the main A378 Taunton road, runs along the original causeway that linked Langport with the River Parrett.

Why not relax in our sunny courtyard?

Enjoy a Traditional Farmhouse Breakfast, or perhaps Lunch and a Glass of Wine — FULLY LICENSED —

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 and 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

L A NGPORT

A stone’s throw from the town centre car park is Cocklemoor, the grassy raised bank alongside the River Parrett.

long narrow plots were laid out on both sides of the causeway which soon became filled with buildings, many of which were probably merchants’ houses with yards and closes off the river or floodplain at the back. The buildings have been replaced several times down the centuries but the layout of burgage plots is still largely intact and some historians consider it to be the best example of its type in Somerset. Although the buildings that can be seen today date from different periods, some as old as 17th century, many still have narrow frontages that reflect the

stocks a large range of gifts, craft materials, toys, greetings cards and chocolates. And Langport Reclamation which recycles building materials, fittings and furnishings. At Bow Bridge, in the sympathetically-restored former warehouse of Great Bow Wharf, is a café with a pleasant sheltered terrace alongside the river. It’s run by the owners of Kitchen at the entrance to Town Square and serves reasonablypriced home-cooked dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.

There’s much more to Langport than just shops. One of its hidden gems is the Town Garden – to find it, go through the right-hand arch of the Town Hall and there at the back is a tranquil walled garden with lawns, flower beds, shrubs and, most important if you share my view that gardens are for sitting in and admiring, some benches. It’s a sheltered suntrap

medieval land pattern. And it’s no illusion that some of them appear to be leaning backways, for the fronts are resting on the firm causeway while the backs sink gently into the floodplains of Cocklemoor and Littlemoor.

But they’ve stood for years and will doubtless go on standing, adding a little more character to the town.

Tucked away amid the houses and businesses on Bow Street are yet more traditional shops, among them the Parrett Coffee House and Gallery, Fosters Newsagents, a pet shop, and the longestablished Cocklemoor which

Westover Garage Ltd.

The Willows Business Park, Westover Trading Estate, Langport, TA10 9RB

Tel: 01458 252252 NEW MOT TESTING CENTRE

Class 7 Commercial Vehicles • Class 4 Cars & Light Vans • Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles Appointment Basis Only • Re-tests FREE of Charge (within 10 days) Car Service & Car Sales — all makes and models FREE Collection & Delivery plus Loan Car Large selection of Tyres in stock at competitive prices

The long-established Cocklemoor shop stocks a large range of gifts, craft materials, toys, greetings cards and chocolates.

COCKLEMOOR GIFT & CRAFT SHOP

Traditional Weigh-out Sweets Cards  Gifts  Toys and Games

Sirdar and Hayfield Knitting Yarns Patterns, Haberdashery, Ribbons Extended Range of Craft Items

Bow Street, Langport Tel: 01458 253145

THE VISITOR July 2015 37

L A NGPORT

The Langport Stores on Cheapside is packed with speciality foods, health foods and tempting indulgences.

with rural views across North Moor to the graceful arches of the railway viaduct and the low hills beyond, and from the ironwork gates at the end of the garden a

footpath skirts the moor to the Tesco supermarket on North Street. If you are a more active gardener, Kelways Nursery on the eastern edge of town on the road

towards Somerton is well worth a visit at this time of year. Amongst other things it’s home to the national collection of peonies.

Another Langport gem is Cocklemoor alongside the Parrett just a stone’s throw from the town centre car park. This grassy raised river bank stretches from the town centre to Bow Bridge and is well provided with seats, so it’s an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon in the sunshine. With the bustle of the town behind them and extensive views across the levels ahead, no wonder so many people find it so attractive. For a contrasting view of the levels, take a look at the current photography exhibition in the John Leach Gallery at nearby Muchelney Pottery. Matilda Temperley’s stunning black-and-white images of last year’s devastating floods illustrate vividly their environmental and human cost, and will be on display until 26th

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

August. The gallery and the pottery shop selling the classic range of Muchelney kitchen and tableware are open daily except Sunday from 9.00am till 5.00pm, but close for lunch from 1.00pm to 2.00pm.

A couple of miles west of Langport is Curry Rivel where you can indulge in a luxury cream tea at Living Pretty, the café in the Old Bakery at the Sandpits Heating Centre on the High Street.

And from there it’s a short drive along the B3168 to Hambridge and the renowned Brown & Forrest smokery and restaurant at Bowdens Farm. The traditional smokery was established way back in 1981 to smoke eels from the watercourses of the Somerset Levels but over the years the range of smoked products has expanded to include local venison, duck, chicken and even pork tenderloin marinated in local cider. In addition there is a smokery shop selling the freshly-smoked fish and meat, and a restaurant serving food from the smokery. Indeed, the Langport area offers a wide choice of cafés and pubs catering for almost all tastes and pockets so you won’t go hungry.

Roger Richards.

Business Update

THE HAIR LODGE - hair, nails and beauty has recently opened in North Street. Owned and run

by Lisa Pearson who has been in the industry for twenty-eight years, working in various salons, on cruise ships and owning her own salon for 13 years. She is also qualified to teach and assess NVQ hairdressing students.

Since relocating Lisa was most recently working in a quality Sherborne salon, before opening The Hair Lodge in Langport.

We Deliver Newspapers and Magazines Cards, Stationery, Balloons for all occasions Service with a Smile

 2016 CALENDARS NOW IN  Open Mon - Sat 5am - 5pm. Sun 7.30am - Noon

FOSTERS NEWSAGENTS

38 THE VISITOR July 2015

(Sue & Tony) Bow Street, Langport Somerset TA10 9PQ Tel: 01458 250607

Hair, Nails & Beauty 11 North Street LANGPORT, TA10 9RH Tel: 01458 897077

S OMERTON

The parish church of St. Michael and All Angels is the venue for several of the festival events including a concert by the Cwmbach Male Choir.

Somerton Music & Arts Festival 3rd – 11th July 2015

The banner and flags adorning West Street are sure signs that it’s festival time again.

A FEAST, my dictionary informs me, is a rich and abundant repast, a rich enjoyment. And a festival is supposed to be ‘a joyful celebration’. That’s exactly what the Somerton Music and Arts Festival promises to be. It’s no exaggeration to say that Somerton is in for a feast of entertainment, inspiration, education and fun this month when the town’s annual Music and Arts Festival kicks off on Friday 3rd July. For nine consecutive days Somerton will be alive with more than 30 events for all ages and interests, making it one of the most popular and most successful celebrations in an area extending far beyond

Headline Acts Include

Visitorland. It’s sure to attract visitors from miles around.

The banners and bunting adorning the streets in the town centre indicate that it’s truly a community effort. Although the festival has been organised by a small committee, most of Somerton seems to be involved in one way or another with many local businesses and individuals sponsoring events and providing

The Beat Cats & Rock ‘n’ Roll Lesson

Cwmbach Welsh Choir

Kaiser Thiefs & Blur Pop Goes the 80s & Miss Minogue Decatonics & Total Madness

Plus much more ...  Visit us at www.somertonartsfestival.co.uk

Festival Telephone: 07928 508700 Tickets on Sale now at Overt Locke, West Street, Somerton

TONY’S FISH & CHIPS Established 28 Years

— OPeNINg TImeS — Tuesday 12.00 - 2.00 5.00 - 9.30 Wednesday 12.00 - 2.00 5.00 - 9.30 Thursday 12.00 - 2.00 5.00 - 9.30 Friday 12.00 - 2.00 5.00 - 9.30 Saturday 12.00 - 2.00 5.00 - 9.30

Tel: 01458 272532 The Triangle, Pye Corner Somerton, Somerset

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 12.30pm, or by appointment

Morley House, Market Place, SOMERTON, Somerset, TA11 7LX • www.awruleandson.co.uk

THE VISITOR July 2015 39

S OMERTON

everything that will be happening during the nine days. To find out the times, dates and venues of all the events you will need to buy a copy of the programme. It’s excellent value at only £2.50, as it also includes a street map showing the location of all the venues and a voucher giving 10% off the already inexpensive prices for tickets bought in advance. It’s available from the festival office in Overt Locke’s shop on West Street, telephone 07928 508700, or email festivaltickets @btinternet.com. And you can find out more about the festival by logging on to www.somertonartsfestival.co.uk.

The principal venue for the larger entertainments is a marquee on the sports ground at Gassons Lane. Complete with a stage, bar and toilets it is big enough to accommodate

The attractive Brunel precinct is home to a selection of small businesses including a pet shop, dress agency, jeweller and wholefoods store.

Hazy-Maes Auctions Auctions and House Clearance Services

AUCTIONS HELD FORTNIGHTLY ON A SATURDAY Viewing all day on Friday prior, 9.30am – 6.30pm

FORTHCOMING AUCTIONS

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practical help. As committee chairman Alex Stannett writes in the festival programme, the aim is ‘to promote music, arts and culture through a varied programme of value-for-money activities and events for the people of Somerton and visitors to the town’, and as this year’s is the 28th festival, the committee has clearly hit on a winning formula for achieving it.

I haven’t space to mention Stacey’s shop on West Street has been a butcher’s since the 1890s if not earlier.

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40 THE VISITOR July 2015

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audiences of more than 200 people in comfort, although judging by the attractions that have been booked it will probably be full every evening with people wanting to dance to the sounds of tribute bands, big bands and local bands. The Unicorn Hotel on West Street provides the venue for a folk session and a blues night as well as for the everpopular festival quiz night. For those who prefer their music to be a little less raucous there are concerts featuring the Cwmbach Male Choir and the Yeovil Military Wives Choir, both in the parish church, and those who like it truly intimate will be tempted by a Berlin Cabaret evening in the Parish Rooms, music from the Great American Songbook at the Lynch Country House Hotel, and the wit and songs of Noel Coward in the parish church.

The events on offer are much broader than just music – there’s the Flower Festival from the 3rd to the 5th in the United Reformed Church, the art and photography exhibition from the 7th to the 11th in the Parish Rooms, and guided walks round the town and the parish church. Paul Atterbury will be revealing some ‘behind the scenes’ stories from BBC’s ‘Antique Roadshow’, and for those whose interests are somewhat more esoteric, there are speakers on elvers and eels, on being a 16th century kitchen maid and on being a naval fighter pilot. As

S OMERTON

The frontage and some of the interior features of the former Market House, nowadays a bistro, date back to the 17th century

always there is a Festival Family Fun Day at the sports field at Gassons Lane, this year on Sunday 5th from noon till 5.00pm. It will include games and

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S OMERTON

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The Market Place is home to two of Somerton’s historic inns, the Globe and the White Hart, both dating back to the 17th century, and possibly earlier.

activities for all ages, bouncy castles, Punch and Judy, displays of classic cars and tractors, a demonstration by the local Dog Agility Group, stalls promoting local groups and societies, entertainment featuring local talent and goodness knows what else. It’s all free of charge so fingers crossed for fine weather!

The event likely to attract the biggest crowds will surely be the Market Day on Saturday 4th July from 10.00am until 4.00pm. The town centre will be closed to traffic and Somerton’s ancient stone buildings will provide an atmospheric backdrop for the craft and market stalls and the street entertainers. A vintage market will be staged in the Old Town Hall with plenty more stalls to look at and buy from, and a local history exhibition on display in the Ladysmith Memorial Hall by the front gate to the

Brunel Pet Centre 5a Brunel Shopping Precinct

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churchyard, better known as the Parish Rooms, is sure to attract a lot of interest.

Somerton is well worth a visit at any time of year, whether for shopping, admiring the architecture or simply imbibing

S OMERTON

the atmosphere. The Music and Arts Festival provides an additional enjoyable reason for making the journey and if you visit the town during the festival it is worth walking the length of West Street to see the wide variety of

retailers between the Market Square and The Triangle – including traditional butchers, home furnishers, gift shop, florist, cafés, antiques and collectables shops and Overt Locke’s department store full of house and home products of every description and where the Festival ticket office can be found. Off West Street, hidden away in old brewery buildings, is the attractive Brunel shopping precinct which houses more small businesses and leads to the independent Williams supermarket.

On your walk you’ll see more of Somerton’s architectural gems including the almshouses built for the town by Sir Edward Hext in 1626 and the historic Unicorn Inn. The town contains a hundred or more interesting buildings dating from the Georgian period or earlier that are easy to see from the road – and inside too if they are occupied by shops, offices or pubs.

The two adjacent ancient pubs on the Market Place, the White Hart and the Globe, both date back to the 17th century and probably

The ever-popular festival quiz night takes place in the Unicorn Hotel on 6th July.

earlier, and the frontage and some of the interior features of the former Market House, nowadays a bar and bistro, are also 17th century. Another pleasant place to eat and drink is the Buttercross Tearooms which, on a warm day, have plenty of tables and chairs on the Square for their customers.

So that’s the flavour of Somerton and its festival feast for 2015.

There is so much on the menu that if you go for a taste you are sure to be tempted back for more.

Roger Richards.

SOMERTON Over 100 Shops & Businesses

Visit our Business Directory

www.somerton.co.uk

On a warm day the Buttercross Tearooms have plenty of tables and chairs on the Square for their customers.

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S OMERTON

Business Update

Under New Ownership Stylique Hair and Beauty

Stylique, situated on the Somerton Business Park is now under the new ownership of Sharon Inder. Sharon who lives locally, has over twenty-five years of experience in the hairdressing industry. Prior to opening her new business she was Technical Director at a leading Yeovil Salon for many years. Cassie Brown remains at Stylique as a stylist and beautician. Stylique offers the latest in cutting and colouring in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Out of hours appointments available.

Sharon and Cassie look forward to welcoming customers old and new.

The Unicorn is now under new ownership - with new host Shaun introducing tasty new menus.

The Printery has now moved to extensive new premises at Canvin Court, on the Bancombe Trading Estate.

Somerton’s ancient stone buildings will provide an atmospheric backdrop for the stalls and street entertainers taking part in the Festival in the Square and Market Day on 4th July.

New event Made in Somerset raises over £900 for charity

A new event showcasing original artisan arts and crafts from across the county has raised over £900 for charity.

There were over 30 stallholders

Andrew M. Knight

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Cassie Brown (stylist) and Sharon Inder (owner) ... welcome customers old and new

11 Canvin Court, Somerton Business Park Bancombe Road, SOMERTON, TA11 6SB

44 THE VISITOR July 2015

Telephone 01458 274380

at Made in Somerset, held at the White Hart Inn in Somerton.

Celebrating the breadth of local skills, these ranged from stylish ceramics and hand crafted jewellery, luxurious embroidered leather and textiles to delicious food and seasonal plants.

The money raised will go to two farming communities: Etatu (www.etatu.org.uk) is concerned primarily with the education of children in Msambweni, a fishing and farming village on the Southern Kenyan Coast.

Meanwhile, The Addington Fund (www.addingtonfund.org.uk) is a UK farming charity which holds a ring-fenced emergency

fund for farmers on the Somerset Levels still affected by last year's floods.

Organiser, Jacquie Lindgren, said: ‘We are delighted with the success of this event. We’d like to thank the White Hart Inn and everyone who visited. All our stallholders are small businesses, some just starting out, and this was a great way to bring them all together and really highlight the talent and enterprise that we have in Somerset. Who knows – perhaps this is the first of an annual event!’

For further information on Made in Somerset or Etatu contact: jacquie@etatu.org.uk

Tinhouse Home & Garden Antiques Furniture • Vintage • Retro • Gardenalia • Pots Birdbaths • Sundials • Statues • Sculptures ITEMS BOUGHT & SOLD – CASH PAID – CAN COLLECT Open 10.30am ‘til 4.30pm, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday Other times by appointment

Tel: 01458 241298 • Mobile: 07971 244441 Sutton Road, South Hill, SOMERTON, TA11 7JG www.tinhousehomeandgarden.co.uk • tinhousehomeandgarden@outlook.com

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Planning your Kitchen

The choice of kitchens today is endless. When choosing a new kitchen it must be governed firstly by budget, but cheapest is not always value for money. Look at the quality of the product and remember that the kitchen is used every day and is also a key feature when selling your property.

Best use of space - today with curved cabinets and built-in appliances it is possible to make the best use of space for ease of use. Regardless of the layout, there are some key things that should be a part of everyone’s plan. Keep the dishwasher near the sink, and try to keep the bin within easy reach of the dishwasher, the food preparation area and the hob zone. The placement of the sink, fridge and cooking areas which are the mostused areas of the kitchen should be kept in close proximity to each other.

Your kitchen should fit your lifestyle - if you are a foodie

House & Home

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AP Kitchen Solutions FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN

Combining a superb multi-fuel stove and a traditional range cooker, the Esse cooks to perfection. See the full range at Sandpits Heating Centre, Curry Rivel. See advert inside front cover.

COCK & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS Established Since1957

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THE VISITOR July 2015 45

House & Home

sighted decision according to the Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) who say that of all the energy efficiency schemes and measures introduced in this period that simple change to regulations has proved the most effective in terms of fuel, energy and CO2 savings.

Now around 1.5 million condensing boilers are sold every year and on average they are 30% more efficient (than the boiler they replace) and 15-30% lower in emissions. For homeowners that could trim an average energy bill by at least £300. Another very important outcome of the mass take-up of condensing boilers is that it has significantly reduced the number of gas-fired carbon monoxide poisoning incidents.

Commenting, B&ES spokesman Mark Oakes said, ‘The modern generation of ultra efficient condensing ‘A-rated’ boilers convert around 95% of the fuel they use and can be up to 40% more fuel efficient than the older boilers they replace.

‘However, the majority of

The ACR Oakdale Multifuel Stove is just £1,900 (including VAT) from Sandpits Heating & Home Store in Curry Rivel. This price is inclusive of full in house HETAS registered installation. Visit the store for full details. See their advert on the inside front cover.

homes in the UK still have either ‘F’ or ‘G’ rated boilers; at best these convert around 70% of the fuel they use into useful heat but it can be as low as 60% efficiency.

‘So despite the resounding success of condensing boilers there is still a long way to go, with an estimated 8 million homes in the UK having noncondensing boilers. The rewards

Andrew Bishop, pictured in his new built-in kitchen appliance showroom. A. Bishop Electricals of Castle Cary have recently moved to larger premises and now offer an even wider range of electrical appliances.

ACF WINDOWS

ANDY FELTHAM

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

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perhaps you want the kitchen to double as a dining area with an island or breakfast bar, if you use it to do your work or the children use it for homework are there enough surfaces and power points, entertainer - perhaps a wine storage unit ... whatever suits you.

Far Sighted Boiler Legislation Decision Reaches Milestone

Ten years ago new legislation came into effect making it mandatory to install condensing boilers in UK homes for upgrades and new installations – a far

HIDER HEATING

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46 THE VISITOR July 2015

Summer is the ideal time to replace your old boiler.

though are very clear: if every home in the UK had a condensing boiler, emissions would be reduced by 17.5 million tonnes, which would translate into savings of £1.3 billion on energy bills each and every year.’

It’s not difficult to find a reputable, reliable registered engineer to provide you with a ‘no obligation’ quote for replacing your old boiler – simply visit the TrustMark website at: http://www.trustmark.org.uk

House & Home

Watch-out for Bogus Gas Installers

The Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) say there are still too many bogus gas installers out there putting families’ lives at risk with their illegal work – with one in five of these jobs so dangerous that the appliance needed to be immediately switched off because it could have caused a gas explosion.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), on average there are three successful prosecutions every week against bogus gas installers carrying out

Range cookers are both stylish and versatile. For an extensive choice visit Homemaker of Shaftesbury who currently have some great money saving promotions on selected range cookers.

See their advert on the inside front cover.

gas work in homes when they are not qualified to do so. Gas Safe – the gas safety watchdog body – estimate that over 250,000 such

jobs are undertaken each year and 90% of these are not completed to the required standard. The Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) say that not only is this putting people’s lives at risk but homeowners are typically left out of pocket as such sub-standard work has to be rectified.

B&ES spokesman, Mark

Oakes, comments, ‘Every week families, and especially OAPs, fall victim to bogus gas fitters who don’t have the skills or qualifications to work on gas appliances, which is specialist work and potentially very dangerous.

‘Poorly installed gas work can cause explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning, which can

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / Metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / Moving / Disposal Above or Below Ground Tanks

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Striking floor tiles to make an impact in your home. See the range at The Tile Market on the Lynx West Trading Estate, Yeovil.

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THE VISITOR July 2015 47

be fatal and can also cause serious long-term health problems; in fact one in five of the illegal gas jobs carried out by bogus fitters was so dangerous that the appliance needed to be shut down immediately because it could have caused an explosion.

‘Don’t simply rely on the recommendation of a friend or use a plumber that has done work for you in the past – anyone you are thinking of hiring to carry out gas work in your home must be Gas Safe registered, and always ask to see their Gas Safe Register identity card and contact the Register immediately on 0800 408 5500[1] if you have any concerns or if you think the gas fitter is using a falsified ID card.’

An easy way to find a qualified,

House & Home

registered gas installer is to use the TrustMark website, the only trade competence scheme endorsed by the Government; here all the heating engineers listed are Gas Safe registered.

By employing the services of TrustMark registered traders, homeowners can be assured that they are using a firm that operates according to industry best practice, with a standard of workmanship that has been independently verified.

For more information visit: http://www.trustmark.org.uk

Waterford Crystal

If you’re a lover of the finer things in life you may well be interested in the new Lismore Connoisseur range of glassware from

Waterford Crystal.

Waterford was first established in 1783 in the heart of the Irish harbour town of Waterford. Its founders were two brothers, William and George Penrose, who were important developers and principal exporters in the city.

Their vision was to ‘create the finest quality crystal for drinking vessels and objects of beauty for the home.’ More than 200 years later, the reputation established for creating glass of unsurpassed beauty and quality has transcended the intervening centuries.

The new collection is designed for the perfect enjoyment of whiskey and includes tumblers and decanters, each handcrafted with beautiful cut crystal designs,

MARSH'S SUMMER SALE

Starts Wednesday 1st July

34 Market Place Sturminster Newton

Tel: 01258 472564 48 THE VISITOR July 2015

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and each created with a different whiskey connoisseur in mind.

The Straight Sided Tumber is for the connoisseur who enjoys their whiskey with a splash of water, a dash of soda or an ice cube or two. The tumbler features a universal shape wide enough for the liquor to breathe and perfect for all types of whiskey and bourbon

The Rounded Tumbler allows the whiskey connoisseur to enjoy a good swirl to appreciate the body and colour of the liquor and is ample enough to accommodate a spot of water or ice. The flared shape of this tumbler makes it extremely comfortable in the hand and allows for a pleasant and ‘neat’ swirling experience with any blended scotch or Irish whiskey, or bourbon.

The Flared Sipping Tumbler has a rounded bowl to comfortably warm and swirl the

YEOVIL FAMILY BUSINESS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS!

RUTH & DEREK LUSH respected members of the community and known locally for their work with The Salvation Army bought the former Co-op in Huish Yeovil in 1965 where they sold carpets, curtains, furniture – and beds. The Preston Furnishings – The Bed Specialists have been trading ever since.

Preston Furnishings – 1965.

The Bed Specialists – pictured Mr. & Mrs. Lush, Martin Stokes, Nick Stokes and Mike Passmore.

Martin Stokes started work at The Bed Specialists 34 years ago and took over when Mr & Mrs Lush retired 18 years ago. It was his decision then to focus the business – specialising in beds. Since which time the business has flourished as it has earned a reputation both for quality products and service. Nick Stokes - Mr & Mrs Lush’s grandson and Martin’s son joined the business ten years ago as a key member of staff making it a third generation family business!

Martin, son Nick and other members of staff keep up to date with manufacturing up-dates and innovations by attending regular seminars and factory visits by leading suppliers such as Vi-Spring. This ensures they have excellent product knowledge of all their stock and can pass this on to their customer. Buying a bed is an important decision as it will last for many years. A good nights sleep is essential to your quality of life so don’t skimp or buy your bed in a hurry. At The Bed Specialists you are invited to try out the beds and discuss your personal requirements – they will then give you unbiased advice on the best bed for you. There is even a bespoke service. The Bed Specialists only deal with leading manufacturers such as Vi-Spring, Hypnos, Myers and Slumberland. Their delivery team will deliver and assemble your bed recycling the old one. Delivery is FREE within a 40 mile radius of Yeovil. Due to demand deliveries are made across the West Country and regularly to London.

 Join Martin, Nick and the team at The Bed Specialists on SATURDAY JULY 4th, for a glass of bubbly, to celebrate this 50th milestone! Don’t forget to enter the FREE DRAW. This month it is for a luxury latex pocket sprung 5ft mattress by Velda worth £499.

COMPLETE ENTRY FORM BELOW and PLACE INTO PRIZE DRAW BOX IN STORE

ENTRY TO PRIZE DRAW

Name .........................................................................................

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........................................................................................................................

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THE VISITOR July 2015 49

Stunning new bedroom ranges Choose from a wide range of colours and designs ... including ‘painted’ and gloss wood finishes

House & Home

whiskey, a pinched middle to concentrate the bouquet, and a flared opening that releases the nuanced nose notes. Crafted for the connoisseur who enjoys sipping their very finest single malt or aged-blend straight, it allows for the full experience of taste and aroma.

shape to gently allow warming liquor and with a narrower opening to concentrate the bouquet. This is the ultimate tasting tumbler for those who enjoy savouring their rarest single malts or pot blends.

The sophisticated Lismore Connoisseur collection gives a nod to the rising popularity of whiskey today. Steadily growing sales of Scotch and Irish Whiskey, Kentucky Bourbon and international varieties, as well as a trend in the amount of whiskey offerings on bar and restaurant menus, shows there is a whiskey revival that defines gender and age. This new collection supports this.

The Daphne Table Lamp

STYLISH AND SPACE SAVING

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Visit our Showrooms and discuss your personal requirements Contact Ashley Helyar at: Simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms The Old Bakery Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN (Through the Archway by Half Moon Inn)

The Footed Tasting Tumbler is preferred by connoisseurs for tasting, sampling, sipping and scrupulous evaluation of a whiskey’s attributes. It is fashioned with a unique tulip

Stylish hardwearing flooring ...

Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms

We offer a superb choice of quality luxury vinyl flooring – leading makes include: Karndean • Moduleo • Vüsta  ROLL STOCK AVAILABLE 

Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiles

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SJH CARPETS Southgate Road, Wincanton  01963 824418

Tel: 01935 817111

www.SimplyBathAndBed.co.uk info@SimplyBathAndBed.co.uk 50 THE VISITOR July 2015

David Hunt Lighting is one of Britain’s longest surviving lighting manufacturers, founded in Birmingham in the late 1800s.

David Hunt Lighting has been based in the North Cotswold market town of Shipston on Stour for the past 100 years, and remains true to it’s traditional roots by employing a small team of hightly skilled craftsmen.

Wincanton

Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178

House & Home

New for 2015 is the Daphne Table Lamp. Taking inspiration from the Art Deco design, Daphne brings a touch of opulence to an interior scheme. The three faceted orbs offer textural intrigue, and have been hard cast in resin before being hand finished in polished bronze.

Daphne is perfect topped with a 100% silk bespoke shade such as Wallis, available in a choice of 12 colours, including Sea Mist Gold, Firefly Orange and Nutmeg.

For more information visit www.davidhunt-lighting.com or call 01608 661590 to find your nearest stockist.

A place for everything! Space saving ideas - fitted bedrooms from Simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms of Sherborne who have recently updated their showrooms - why not pop in and discuss your requirements?

City Decorating Supplies of Wells take on the World!

An award ceremony was recently held by Farrow & Ball who have over 1000 distributors worldwide.

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YEOVIL – SHERBORNE – WINCANTON GILLINGHAM etc.

Your local Sky expert THE VISITOR July 2015 51

Sweden. City Decorating hold one of the largest stocks of Farrow & Ball in the UK and Mike has dealt with the company for 21 years, when it was just a very small bespoke National Trust paint manufacturer.

Mike said 'We are absolutely delighted with this recognition but this was a team effort with Alex and Jan playing a big part in our success. Farrow & Ball products have unique quality and finish, meaning our customers come back for more time and time again!'

The staff at City Decorating Supplies would 'like to thank all of our customers for their continued support'.

College’s new Construction Centre Opens

Yeovil College’s new Construction Skills Centre has been officially opened by celebrity builder and landscaper Tommy Walsh and Mark Eburne, CEO of the Bradfords Group, one of the College’s valued industry partners.

The 1000m2 Construction Skills Centre has been specifically designed to allow students to learn high level vocational, industryrelevant skills for careers in Plumbing, Electrical, Joinery, Gas and Plastering. The facility also means that the College can expand its provision, so that local

House & Home

Celebrity builder and landscaper Tommy Walsh and Mark Eburne, CEO of the Bradfords Group unveil a plaque on the new Construction Skills Centre at Yeovil College.

people can soon apply for courses in Painting & Decorating and Bricklaying. The building has been specifically designed with an eye to the future, allowing scope for new courses as demand from industry grows and new technologies develop.

Guests at the grand opening included students, staff and governors, as well as community and industry representatives from organisations including the Bradfords Group, Jones Building Group, Yarlington Housing Group and Screwfix. The College was also delighted to welcome the Mayor of Yeovil, Cllr. Mike Lock, Vice-Chair of South Somerset

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52 THE VISITOR July 2015

District Council Tony Capozzoli.

As well as tours of the facility and wider campus, which has been greatly improved and developed over the past year, the event included ‘Challenge Tommy’ construction-themed activities. Mr Walsh joined Level 1 Basic Construction students to work on a patio, then visited the Level 2 Plumbing students to do some pipework. He was joined by former plumber Cllr. Lock for his second challenge.

Cllr. Lock said “It’s been an excellent day. The new Construction Skills Centre is a lovely building and offers a fantastic opportunity for all Yeovil students. I came to Yeovil College in the late ‘60s and trained as a plumber. The College has come a long way since then and the Principal, John Evans, is doing a fantastic job.

We’re very lucky to have facilities like this in Yeovil. Three key housing sites are currently under development in the town and others are being proposed, so Yeovil is really looking forward to expanding with the help of Yeovil College Construction

students.”

At the end of the morning, a commemorative plaque was unveiled by Mr Walsh and Mark Eburne, CEO of the Bradfords Group.

Tommy Walsh said “Construction is a very valid and purposeful course that trains people to create things for the future. I believe that buildings shape the future and affect people, so they need to be of a very high standard. The students here have the advantage of coming to a high standard, purpose built facility. If an opportunity like this facility comes your way, you have to grab it with both hands. The future for the building industry is great and if I had to choose a career, I would want to choose one with such a brilliant future. I hope that the new Construction Skills Centre helps all the students fulfil their ambitions and dreams.”

Mark Eburne, CEO of the Bradfords Group, said “It’s come home to me today the extent to which Bradfords could develop its relationship with Yeovil College.

On a daily basis, the challenge for us is to find the people with the skills that we need to drive our business forward and provide excellent service to our customers.

The potential for Bradfords and Yeovil College to work together is hugely exciting to us and I look forward to continuing the relationship as it develops in years to come.”

The event ended with presentations to a group of Yarlington Housing Group employees, who have been completing Level 2 Construction & Maintenance Operations Apprenticeships through Yeovil College. Barbara Richardson, Executive, Director of Growth & Investment at Yarlington

House & Home

Housing Group said “This is a new course on which Yarlington have worked in collaboration with Yeovil College. It’s presented our Trade Professionals with the opportunity to develop their Construction knowledge to become multi-skilled, enabling us to give a better repairs service to our customers. Those who have worked towards this qualification have shown a great amount of commitment and the fact that they have been holding down a full time job whilst studying is a fantastic achievement.”

“In the next five to ten years there will be about 185,000 people retiring from the construction industry; 45,000 of these will be from the south west. Therefore, we really need to encourage people to consider the wideranging career possibilities that exist within the industry when making career choices. The new Construction Skills Centre at Yeovil College is a fantastic resource and will help in ensuring that local people are able to learn the skills to fill these roles.”

Yeovil College Principal John Evans said “I feel very humble standing here today. I remember how this building started as an aspiration all those months ago, so to be here, now, seems almost surreal. When I joined Yeovil College about 18 months ago, I went to visit our old centre at Lufton. I could see that staff had done their best with what they had, but that if we were setting aspirations and meeting industry need, then we had to offer facilities that helped us reach higher standards for the future.

Our vision for the centre was to build on the experience we already had and provide training that gave people the skills they and the industry will need in the years to come. Our new Construction Skills Centre has a

vibrant atmosphere already and I’m sure that it will get stronger and stronger and stronger.”

Fabrics by Soleil Bleu

The Flying to Montreux Collection

by Soleil Bleu for JAB Anstoetz is inspired by the elegant homes, subtropical vegetation and international reputation of the Montreux Riviera.

Launched for 2015, this collection offers exquisite hand selected decorative and upholstery fabrics in a range of sophisticated designs including embroidered, embellished and quilted selections. A combination of prints and plains, chenille and jacquard patterns, these elegant and delicate fabrics create a multifaceted range that give elegance and character to stylish interiors.

Made from natural materials, this collection offers fabrics of exceptional quality in a range of warm, rich and luxurious tones.

The drapery fabrics in particular are in key colours for 2015 and certain fabrics are proving to be instant hits.

Soleil Bleu fabrics start from £29.90 per metre and go up to £85.10 per metre.

The

Pub Pages

B EER & S KI TTL ES P. A. BAXTER

CHANGE is the only constant in life, an adage which becomes more obvious as one grows older, if not necessarily wiser. We're all comfortable with the familiar, but even the familiar was once new, and those of us who still love the traditional pub will often grumble when they see a pub refurbished or updated. However, that with which we were happy would have probably upset a few members of the previous generations when the straw-strewn dirt floor was covered with flag-stones, the

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lighting changed from gas to electricity and the spittoon emptied and taken away forever.

Your writer truly abhors screens in pubs, save for the time when there are big national events on - football and rugby etc, although I am not a fan of either, as both my regular readers will testify to.

Interestingly, as the generation that has grown up with handheld computers with which they can communicate across the globe now find themselves old enough to visit pubs, we see a new generation of license holders emerging. Indeed, according to a recent trade paper, the number of licensees in the 25-34 bracket has grown by an amazing 25%.

So what may we find in their pubs? Well, it seems that one, two or even three screens are becoming the norm, along with a range of zesty, citrusy and interesting craft beers. Is this the future of pubs? Well my guess is as good as anyone else's, and whether there is still room for the dart board, or if the skittle alley is now just reserved for hen parties, stag parties and the monthly comedy night, remains to be seen.

Binge-drinking and its dodgy definition are topics which have graced these pages more than a

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THE VISITOR July 2015 53

The

Pub Pages

few times since the term was invented. Interestingly, recent statistics show that in the last ten years since the introduction of 24-hour licensing, alcohol consumption has dropped by 17%, along with crime (including violent crime), drink driving, and our friend binge-drinking. In my humble opinion the coloration between the aforementioned and the introduction of 24 hour licenses is tenuous at best. Who knows of any establishments in this area where it is possible to

Steak Night Every Monday Ribeye, Pork Loin or Salmon with Salad & Fries for only £10 per head

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drink alcohol 24 hours a day anyway? Certainly no-one I know!

According to the report, this is the biggest drop in alcohol consumption since the 1930's. So what caused the drop during the inter-war years? Needless to say the article did not go as far to try to find an explanation for it.

'Lies, damn lies, and statistics' as the old saying goes. Further comment is, I feel, superfluous!

If you were asked, dear reader, how many breweries there were in London, what would you think?

Perhaps your answer would be something like 'Well, there is Fullers, where they make that London Pride stuff of course, er ... there are a couple more - the names eludes me at the moment ... um, perhaps three or four others?' I too, would be struggling to name more than a handful.

Well, five years ago there was about 15, today there are more than 70. Yes, that's right, 70! It seems that almost daily we find that a new brewery has opened

Come on, own up, who played this trick on our Vinny?

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Lamb & Lark Russell & Diane welcome you to the INN KEEPING AT ITS BEST

Limington nr. Ilchester • BA22 8EG Tel: 01935 840368 Sunday 28 th June: Quiz Night ... in aid of St. Margaret’s Hospice Last quiz until September • Thanks to everyone for their support Thursday 2 nd July: American

Sizzler Night Night th Thursday 30 July: Thai Night Saturday 1st August: Charity Music Night & Hog Roast Thursday 16 th July: Greek

... in aid of Childrens’ Hospice South West Country & Western Duo + Disco • £10 per ticket inc. Music & Hog Roast  Let us drive you: ask about our MINI BUS HIRE service  Visit our website for full details

54 THE VISITOR July 2015

www.lambandlark.co.uk

The

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somewhere or other. So does this now mean our job as CAMRA members is no longer relevant in promoting the Great British Ale now that all these establishments are doing their best for Queen and country? Of course not. As we started last month's article with the fact that CAMRA is no longer just about 'real ale' - and has not just been about for some time in all honesty, then the protection of pubs - those worth protecting, that is - plus challenges facing cider and perry producers are all topics that will continually need to be addressed.

A regular reader, who like ourselves, enjoys the delights of the products from the Otter Brewery in Devon picked up a couple of beer mats as they had some interesting statements which are worth repeating. One stated that the Otter Brewery has become home for a 'large number of owls and bats' which must be more than a little bit responsible insofar as it clearly would not be good to allow them into certain parts, for obvious reasons. Good for them; 'Real' wildlife in the building! The legend on the other mat states that 98% of their beer is sold in pubs rather than in supermarkets. Hoorah and huzzah! I still wrestle with my conscience when I buy beer from supermarkets; for am I helping the demise of the pub by drinking beer at home? Possibly ... what's

your opinion? Drop me a line via skittlealley@hotmail.com or by snail-mail to the Visitor offices.

(My thanks this month go to one very local correspondent and another one from 8,000 miles away. Cheers chaps!)

CAMRA often shout out about their successes when it appears that certain victories have been made. Apparently, the third year of beer tax increases that didn't happen, along with the scrapping of the duty escalator has 'saved consumers 20p a pint'. How they came to that conclusion when the prices continue to rise I have no idea. However, one thing I did note recently was about a (non) favourite of mine - fizzy nearbeer. In particular they were having a bit of a go at that wonderful 'Genuine' Bud (from a factory by the Thames at Mortlake). Do you drink this?

Have you ever wondered about the price per pint? It is in fact produced in bottles of considerably less than a pint. So what is the price per pint then?

Well; out with your phone everybody and multiply the price

The MUDDLED

article rightly gives credit for much of the information to the excellent book 'Played at the Pub'

by Arthur Taylor. Next time the author of this series will involve a look at 'some of the traditional games that involve throwing'.

Whilst I guess it's a start toward getting more exposure for pub games, I fear that many pubs may well have lost their billiard and snooker rooms to more 'vertical drinking' areas, and even a few hideous great screens!

Hey landlords - put on some NASCAR, and even I might take a look in!

CAMRA’s Anti-EU Cider Tax Petition

Death by chocolate? Certainly sir ... coming up!

On the 10th June David Warburton, MP for Somerton and Frome, delivered a petition from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) to Number 10, Downing Street urging the Government to reject an EU proposal to impose a new tax on small cider producers.

The petition, with more than 26,000 signatures, calls on the Government to support the cider

Have you discovered the Ample Parking

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Lower Street, West Chinnock A charming country inn serving home cooked fayre lunchtime & evening

VILLAGE FETE / FAIR DAY Saturday 4th July

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Sunday Lunch £7.95  Fresh Fish Day Friday Steak Special: Two 8oz Rump Steaks £16.50 Sunday to Thursday

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you have just paid by 1.72.

Horrified? Well if you aren't, then you should be!

The CAMRA quarterly magazine 'Beer' for the summer edition carried an article about the emergence of billiards and snooker in this country, and inevitably pool as well. Despite my belief that pubs with games will always have an advantage over those that don't, the editor deems such an article only worthy of been tucked in the antepenultimate pages. The

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Lord Nelson Rectory Lane

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THE VISITOR July 2015 55

They Say

That there is no need for Castle Cary residents to go to Weymouth for a day on the beach, just visit Maggie H.

That at Martock Waterman in Great Western Road, they have a ‘skeleton staff.’

That the question being asked in Wincanton is, ‘just where was Uncle Phil?’ when the SJH Carpet team were captured on film.

That insatiable Rob Penn of Shepton Mallet is partial to large tarts, and when it is full steam ahead, can even manage two!

That Somerset’s got talent! Two Tony awards.

That it was a brilliant turn out for the recent RNAS parade in Yeovil - with some wonderful window displays ... well done Eleanor Florence.

That Mike Sparrow of Martock has recently improved his skills with an iron - unfortunately for him - not on the golf course.

That due to a recent tight squeeze, Cindy of A to B in Martock has given up sinning for the foreseeable future.

That Jan Farrar-Bennetts of Wells is now a convert to "harems".

That Langport Town was recently in the pink.

That, since his unfortunate accident, North Cadbury’s Harvey Woods is the bestdressed canine in the village.

That Stalbridge is to be re-named 'Scaffolding City'

That the Ilminster Banner and Flag Festival, which runs for 3 weeks from the first week in June was a huge success this year, if the crowds attending the Street Market in the town on Saturday 13th June were anything to go by.

That at the recent Tim Vine show at The Octagon - one red faced lady had a round of applause after she found out, with a bump, that the seats return to closed when you alight!

That talented woodworker Gary Thomas of Evercreech recently gave a private viewing of his work, which was a bit of a hoot - and wood suit most pallets.

That Di at the Lamb & Lark in Limington is very pleased with her new kitchen assistant - who has been known to get into a stew - but never answers back.

That 2015 was a good birthday year for Jayne Woods of North Cadbury who celebrated on consecutive days.

56 THE VISITOR July 2015

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

“Every day's an endless stream Of cigarettes and magazines And each town looks the same to me The movies and the factories”

NO ONE GOT the song last month which is great coz it saves me buying them a pint! Last month’s song was in fact Peter Gabriele with Kate Bush and “Don’t Give up”.

Last month we had a super time here at the top of the hill. First mention goes to a young couple Sandra and Sam who became Mr. & Mrs. Brabbs. We had a fantastic day. The weather was fabulous, the guests impeccable and the whole day was just great from start to finish.

Well done you two. Congratulations!

X. Another great party held at The Quick was the one booked by Chris Venn to mark his riding off into the sunset after over 40 years working for Westland. Friends and work colleagues from past and present gathered to give him a super sendoff. Well done Chris, a well-deserved retirement.

The Westland Apprentice and Student Association staged the first round of a “Battle of the Bands” contest, and what a great night it was.

Lots of great young talent performing trying to win their way through to the final which will be held here at The Quick on July 11th. The winners get to be the support act when The Enemy appear at Westlands later in the month. A fantastic first prize!

As you know my middle name is charity and when two of my locals suggested to me that we hold a gig in the function room for Sands Stillbirth Neonatal Death Charity, I thought what a great idea. Hopefully we can help raise a couple hundred quid to help things along. Little did I realise the power of Ross and Billy they must have told everyone about the gig because they managed to raise a staggering £850 in just one night.

Well done you two, and a big “thank you” to the band The Disciples who gave up their time and put on a great show, and allowing Ross to get and do a couple numbers to show us how it should be done. Top night  .

Next month on the 10th of July we have the fabulous B B Tim live in the bar. On the 24th we have Finnian McGurk. So get yourself down the best pub in town and come and say hello.

And finally ... we have just taken on a one armed waiter. He can take it but he can’t dish it out!  TOOT TOOT!!!

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

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sector by rejecting an EU demand that a new tax of up to £2,700 is imposed on very small cider producers - those who make under £10,000 worth of sales a year. Currently, small cider producers making less than 70 HL (hectolitres) of cider per year, or 33 pints a day, are exempt

The

from paying excise duty under UK law.

David Warburton MP said, ‘Somerset is undoubtedly the cider capital of the world, defined by this uniquely English tipple which is often produced by local microbreweries. The current exemption from tax for our small-scale cider producers is a key factor in helping promote the growth and prosperity of this modest but vibrant industry.

‘Countless micro-breweries in Somerset would be affected by the proposed action from the EU, making small-scale production uneconomical and leading to wide-spread closures of our successful local cider-producing businesses. This simply cannot be allowed to happen.’

Tom Stainer, Head of Communications for CAMRA

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?

LIVE MUSIC  9pm Start

Sat. June 27th: Craig Priddice guitar /vocalist Sat. July 25th: Chris Rainbow 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

Sunday Roast? Beer Festival?

Barbecue? PUB PAGES are a regular monthly feature in ...

 August Issue PRINT: Thursday 30th July  DEADLINE: Friday 17th July

To Advertise Tel: 01963 351256 Or Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

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added, ‘The majority of real cider comes from small scale producers and has long been part of rural tradition and culture. The proposed action by the European Union is wholly disproportionate, given that a small producer selling 30 pints a day has no capacity to affect EU trade to any meaningful degree. If these producers are driven out of business it will dramatically reduce consumer choice and cause irreparable damage to one of the nation's most historic industries, so important to Somerset.’

The petition, which is also supported by many of the South West’s MEPs, was handed over to No.10 Downing Street by David Warburton MP and Andrea Briers from CAMRA.

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

IN SOMERTON ... take advantage of the alfresco seating and enjoy a glass of wine at The Market Bar and Bistro ... calamari and whitebait a tasty starter at The Unicorn ... welcome to Kirsty at The White Hart ... enjoy the sunshine at The Rose & Portcullis, Butleigh where there is plenty of outdoor seating ... a warm welcome to this column goes to Wesley and the team at The Castlebrook Inn, Compton Dundon ... Minty Lamb Casserole a tasty dish at The George, Castle Cary ... excellent accommodation at The Natterjack, Evercreech Junction including the Blenheim Suite, suitable for disabled ... 2015 Certificate of Excellence from Trip

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week Food Now Served All Day Saturday & Sunday

David Warburton MP for Somerton & Frome, with Andrea Briers, CAMRA National Cider and Perry Committee Chairman with the petition outside No.10.

Advisor awarded to Truffles Brasserie in Bruton for the second year running ... delicious Rabbit Fricassee on the specials board at The Stags Head Yarlington ... a tasty tipple at The Walnut Tree in Mere is their Walnut Ale and quaff selected wines for up to half price each Friday at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague.

Cycling on to South Cadbury where you can be sure of a good pint of Summerset at The Camelot Inn ... make a note in your diary for the forthcoming Fun Day at The Catash Inn North Cadbury ... enjoy takeaway fish and chips from The Mildmay Arms, Queen Camel on a Friday night 5 till 9pm ... if you are holding a special event ask about the outside catering at The Queens Arms in Corton Denham and the hanging baskets are looking a picture at the newly opened Orchard Inn,

SOUTH WEST PRIVATE HIRE

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Mobile: 07785 550086 Tel: 01935 840368

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

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

Galhampton where the garlic mushrooms in filo pastry are an appetizing starter.

Leaping on to Limington ... get your ticket for the hog roast and music charity night to be held on 1st August at The Lamb & Lark in aid of the Childrens Hospice SW ... Treacle Eater Clog and musicians will be performing outside at The Great Lyde in Yeovil on Mon 27th July at 9pm ... pop in and see Pete at The Quicksilver - answer his pop question correctly and you could

win yourself a pint ... leave space for homemade chocolate torte when dining at The Castle in West Coker where the new thatch is complete ... dancing diggers and a quad bike demonstration are just a couple of the many attractions at West Chinnock Fete on 4th July we understand from The Muddled Man, who will be open all day and have live music and a hog roast in the evening ... sangria and paella back on the menu to get you in the mood for Summer at The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon ... in Over Stratton Jill has been working her magic on a new summer menu at The Royal Oak ... Certificate of Excellence awarded to The Barrington Boar, Barrington where it’s quiz night the second Tuesday of each month and in Ilminster, the hanging baskets at The Royal Oak are looking good!

Marching on to Martock we find The Nags Head garden is perfect for dining alfresco ... tasty Bistro Specials at The White Hart ... St Austell Tribute a popular ale at The Rose & Crown, Bower Hinton ... and finally, you’ll find smart renovations have taken place at Kingbury Episcopi’s Wyndham Arms.

Castlebrook Inn the

COMPTON DUNDON Somerton, TA11 6PR  01458 448902

BEER FESTIVAL

28th, 29th & 30th August  3 Day Event Friday 28th • 7pm – 11pm

LIVE MUSIC with Bleedin’ Hearts 8pm

Saturday 29th • 12noon – 11pm

Guest “Wolfie” 3 Times World Champion Darts Player Martin Adams 2pm – 6pm LIVE MUSIC with Hog Wash Junction 8pm

Sunday 30th • 12noon – 6pm  OVER 30 ALES and CIDERS  Plus non-stop LIVE MUSIC

Fun for all the family! ... including INFLATABLE SLIDE

Tickets £5 to include a FREE ½ Pint Children under 12 FREE

CAMPING available – telephone for details

Proceeds in aid of Riders in the Sky Air Ambulance Charity

www.castlebrookinn.co.uk info@castlebrookinn.co.uk

THE VISITOR July 2015 57

Picnic Wines

Now that the children are well into their last half term before school breaks up for the summer holidays, it won’t be long until many of us will start to think of the long sunny days ahead of us, and the lure of meals outside. I confess that picnics are one of my favourite things.

After a hard week at the computer along with the endless meetings I endure I really enjoy the peace and quiet offered by many of the secluded spots that can be found in the area. Staying close to home, in addition to helping to boost local tourism, can have the added benefit of avoiding much of the traffic that clogs up our roads on summer weekends.

Across the West Country at this time of year there are countless events and activities on offer that lend themselves nicely to the treat of a picnic, whilst helping to stretch the hard earned pennies that little bit further.

Rather than tolerate soggy shop bought sandwiches and sausage rolls, eaten off plastic plates on a noisy crowded beach, or chomping on the fast food on offer at many roadside eateries, it takes just a little effort to turn your day out into something special.

If you are feeling far too lazy to make your own scrumptious treats supermarket deli counters usually offer interesting combinations, although I much prefer hunks of cheese, paté and cold meats and sun ripened tomatoes bought from a local producer at a farmers’ market; throw in some freshly baked bread and a cake from the WI

Wine & Dine

and you’ll soon be ready for the off.

Although ‘proper’ picnic hampers can be had quite cheaply, if all else fails a trusty wicker basket will do the job nicely; a tartan rug to sit on, a good book (or Kindle if you must), and the wine, of course.

Personally, I frown on using plastic glasses but I can appreciate the cautious approach of others, and admit that there are some perfectly acceptable plastic options available.

Picnics need to be portable, and so should the wine, so to keep things simple, and to avoid the panic over a missing corkscrew, my preference would always be something bubbly as, whether it is real champagne or not, it always adds a festive touch to any occasion. Failing which, turn to the dreaded screw top, which has the advantage of allowing you to reseal the bottle.

Previously associated with cheap and cheerful quaffing wines, the wine world has increasingly embraced the screw cap, meaning it’s no longer a barrier to quality. Do be aware though that they are meant for immediate drinking, not for ageing.

Choosing the right picnic wine can be something of a challenge, as picnic fare tends to include a bit of everything. For warm sunny days aim for light bodied, cool, crisp white or rosé wines with a good balance of acidity.

Transporting them in a freezer sleeve will keep them cool, retaining their fresh character.

Rosé wines are of course the quintessential summer wine, perfect for quaffing, and frequently offering melon and

strawberry characteristics that pair well with many food types, although the alcohol for some of these, especially from the south of France, can be deceptively high.

Variety is the spice of life, so if your fellow picnickers can’t seem to agree on their wine preferences, invest in a selection of the readily available mini bottles, so that everyone, can have just what they want.

Give these a try for a refreshing summer thirstquencher. Prices can vary, and at the time of writing some supermarkets are offering discounts on purchases of 6 bottles or more.

Clocktower, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough NZ 2014 - 13.5%

Vibrant, lively and crisp, it will go well with asparagus, prawns, fennel salad.

Ferricrete Riesling, Paul Cluver, Elgin, South Africa – 2013 – 11%

This off dry wine, with strong lime and herbal overtones is one produced by one of the first wine estates to initiative a black empowerment scheme. It is a versatile wine, that matches well with seafood and spicy salads, sushi, carpaccio, grilled white meats.

Alvarinho Vinho Verde, Tercius, Portugal – 2013 12.5%

58 THE VISITOR July 2015

The same grape variety as Albariño which is grown in Spain.

One of the key grapes in vinho verde, this is typically floral in character, with fresh lime and pear notes, and a palate-cleansing minerality.

Chapel Down English Rosé, Tenterden, Kent - 2014 11%

This is just like summer pudding in a glass, full of strawberries and redcurrants to entice the palate, yet delicate and soft on the palate, with well balanced acidity. Great served with salmon or tuna salad on a hot summer afternoon.

If all else fails – then Pimms will fit the bill nicely and I see that they have just released a limited edition Strawberry version, just in time for Wimbledon!

LP-V.

Preserving Soft Fruits

We’re approaching that time of year when our delicious homegrown soft fruits start making an appearance and although you can’t beat the delicious taste of fresh fruit, there is something very satisfying about seeing your pantry or kitchen shelves lined with homemade preserves.

A wide variety of fruits can be preserved, in sugar and/or alcohol, but it is important that they are firm and fresh. With cherries coming into season our local fruit farms are the place to visit for that ‘just picked’ freshness. If you can manage to keep some for preserving, before the family eat them all, you won’t be disappointed with the following recipe for Brandied Cherries.

Ingredients 500g cherries 250g granulated sugar 300ml water 1 cinnamon stick 150ml brandy (rum or kirsch)

Method 1. Prick the cherries all over with a clean cocktail stick or needle. Dissolve half the sugar in the water then add the cherries and cinnamon stick and poach gently for 4 - 5 minutes.

2. Lift the cherries from the syrup and arrange in small, clean, dry preserving jars. Dissolve the remaining sugar in the reserved syrup, then bring to the boil for 5 - 6 minutes.

3. Leave the syrup to cool, then measure the syrup and add an equal amount of brandy.

Pour the brandy syrup over the cherries, cover with plastic lined lids and leave to mature for three months.

GARDENING

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming

July

Orchard Park

ONE OF THE HOTTEST summer months; I should add ‘usually’ as you can never be quite sure and it certainly can vary a bit from year to year, but then if you want predictable weather it would be best to live on a large continental land mass rather than a relatively small offshore island. But isn’t that the joy of being where we are and (as gardeners) doing what we do? It brings variety to our lives and keeps us alert, so how to make sure the garden survives and prospers? July is a great month for garden visiting, and hats off to those whose efforts provide so much pleasure for the rest of us.

Watch out for gardens listed in the local papers and under the National Garden Scheme which raises money for charity through

open gardens. All manner of gardens, and mostly, only open for a day or so. The NGS website, www.ngs.org.uk has an organised list of gardens open by date in specific areas. Visit one when you can, witness the effort gardeners go to and support their charitable fund raising [nearly £23m in the last 10 years alone].

Gardeners opening up to the rest of us will know that a lot depends on your soil and what sort of condition it is in, as a soil that has been looked after, with organic matter returned, will be better than any that has been used but ignored. Garden compost is a vital part of the cycle; growing things take nutrients out so it is unreasonable to expect things just to keep growing happily without putting something back.

Full ground preparation and laying service available

Compost made from plant material and uncooked vegetable kitchen waste will contain a lot of goodness as well as help improve the soils structure and its ability to hold water during the dry months, and as long as it is rotted down, you can add it any time. Feed from artificial sources is fine for most plants but always an individual choice. Personally I stick to simple organic feeds for anything I eat and manufactured feeds for the rest. Fish, blood and bone meal or seaweed based feeds on the fruit and veg and Vitax Q4 or a rose fertilizer elsewhere.

Liquid feeds are most useful now when the soil is dry as granular Fencing & Gates Supplied and Erected by the

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feeds need water to get them to the plant roots.

Pest and Disease can be a worry this month. Sometimes a problem earlier in the year is only

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THE VISITOR July 2015 59

apparent now, which can make it difficult to identify or treat. The plant doctor needs to know what might have been going on before the leaf with the nasty brown blotches was found. Unlike most animals, leaves do not get better; if they are damaged in any way then that mark stays until the leaf is finished with. New leaves will grow and it is important to see that they don’t have the same problem. Some problems are clearly the result of disease, others are deficiencies; not enough water, air, feed or light.

Then there are the climatic conditions where maybe a sudden drop in temperature, strong or cold winds from an unexpected direction can hit soft plant growth

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

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GARDENING

that wasn’t ready for it. Bugs of all sorts have their lifecycles and the one that did the damage may have moved on by the time you saw it. Some things are predictable such as aphids and blackspot on roses and potato blight, so the gardener can be prepared with the necessary weapons to hand. Any garden centre or nursery worth its salt can give you the advice you need when buying fertilizers and chemicals for the garden. Any chemicals need careful use to avoid harming beneficial insects such as bees, and we don’t really need to kill everything that we don’t like the look of. Work with nature where you can.

Mediterranean types, Lavandula stoechas and L. pedunculata will suffer in severe winters. All need good drainage and a sunny spot.

Plant of the month

So many things are flowering their hearts out, but in July roses win hands down. No garden is complete without them and with so many sorts to choose from climbers, shrubs, ground cover, pot and patio varieties. They give colour, scent and shape to so many parts of the garden. They love our heavy clay soils, but do mostly need reasonable light.

Alongside the roses, lavenders do well, but can be confusing as some of the showier sorts are really not reliably hardy in this country. The English lavender,

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60 THE VISITOR July 2015

Lavandula angustifolia, is the hardiest with lots of hybrid varities to chose from, whilst the colourful and more dramatic

Spoilt for choice - urns, tubs, ballustrades can all be found at Classic Stone of Shepton Mallet - all at competitive prices.

Jobs for the month

GARDENING

Long days are essential to keep on top of weeding, watering and welfare for plants! A weed is only a plant growing in the wrong place at the wrong time, so if it’s not bothering you then leave it and deal with the others. Serious weeds such as couch grass, horsetails, Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan balsam need constant attention. There are two approaches one is cultivation digging or cutting back repeatedly to exhaust the plant, and chemical treatment to kill it. Deep rooted perennial weeds need to have a weed killer applied [probably glyphosate] in calm dry weather, and left alone until they show signs that the chemical has reached the roots and the weed is collapsing.

Horsetails and knotweed have strong stem and cell walls making it hard to get the weed killer into the plant. In extreme cases wipe the plant with the rough side of a

This articulating long-reach hedge trimmer from Echo has a 446mm cutter that can rotate through 120 º perfect for trimming the tops of tall hedges without the need for a ladder. See the full range at Ben Johnson Garden Machinery, Shaftesbury.

sponge scourer using a concentrated solution of glyphosate and be prepared to repeat several times. Hoe off annual weeds before they get too big.

Watering is vital for food crops, as if they dry out during fruit or

root development the crop will probably be poor or unusable.

Water early or late to avoid wasting water and direct the water where it is needed. A mulch on top of the soil cuts down water loss dramatically.

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GARDEN MACHINERY

Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ • Tel: 01747 851021 THE VISITOR July 2015 61

Plant welfare includes liquid feeding and there are lots of feeds on the market to use at the same time as you are watering. The important thing is to have the right feed at the right time with nitrogen making leaves and growth in general, phosphates for healthy roots and shoots, and potash for flower and fruit production as well as generally toughening up the plant cells. There is always a choice between naturally occurring fertilisers and manufactured ones so something for everyone. Liquid feeds do not improve soil conditions long term; that comes from adding back organic matter.

Pest and disease – watch out for blight on spuds and tomatoes. The preventative copper sprays are being phased out which will leave us with very little apart from good husbandry to deal with blight. The best crops will have plenty of air around them, remove any suspect leaves but don’t compost them, and water early in the day so the leaves are dry overnight.

Aphids can be really damaging to plant growth, physically remove them, wash off with very dilute plain soapy water or use Provado Ultimate Bug Killer, Bug Clear,

GARDENING

Sprayday or pyrethrum based products.

Insects will have only certain sections of their life cycle when they are susceptible so be ready to treat the next generation a couple of weeks later.

Fruit and veg gardening relies on regular harvesting and with salad crops, regular re-sowing, to be really productive. Most of us forget to sow another lot of lettuce or spinach two weeks after the last lot so run into periods when there is nothing to cut!

Ripening fruit is very attractive to all sorts of wildlife, so protect from the uninvited guests – they can forage in the hedgerows rather than take your hard-earned produce. Enjoy!

Open Gardens Weekend in Sandford Orcas

See a huge variety of outdoor spaces in over 12 open gardens in Sandford Orcas (3 miles north of Sherborne off the B3148 Marston Magna road) on the 4th and 5th

for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, Sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221

of July from 2-6pm, starting from the Village Hall Car Park and only £6 (children free).

Organiser Janet Towers says, ‘It is a rare opportunity to see what people have created around their homes in this lovely linear village.

There are so many solutions to living along the streamside environment, also many different mixes of planting within everyone’s borders, banks and beds. It’s always fascinating to see what people have done behind their roadside hedges and garden walls, with their personal choices of the massive selection of flowers, shrubs and trees available these days.

‘As well as the 12 or so gardens to look at, there will be teas at both ends of the Gardens Trail, plants sales and a children’s miniature garden competition. You can also choose your favourite garden in the public vote.’

Along with the more traditional gardens there are ponds, a lake, ferns, bonsais, fruit trees and bushes, greenhouses, vegetables

OPEN GARDENS Sandford Orcas 3 miles North of Sherborne off B3148 Saturday & Sunday 4th & 5th JULY 2pm – 6pm each day Teas  Plant Sales Children’s Miniature Garden Competition Entry £6 (children under 16 free)

Start from Village Hall Car Park

PLANT WORLD For the best plants!

For all your gardening needs

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62 THE VISITOR July 2015

and even a working vineyard. A beautiful feast for your eyes and a delightful way to spend an afternoon. All money raised will be going towards a new roof for the village hall.

NGS Garden of the Month Sutton Hosey Manor Sunday 19th July, 2.30pm - 6.30pm

The garden at Sutton Hosey is defined by a curtain wall of austere blue lias. Forty years ago what is now the kitchen garden was an orchard. The Ornamental Garden, now divided into ‘rooms’, produced the vegetables. The garden lies within a working farm.

A prodigious flush of roses suggests that the garden should be open in June. - but it’s not. So to compensate for the lack of flower power in July talented young musicians will woo the ear of visitors and tea and cakes will be available. Trees with wondrous and improbable names abound: Epaulette, Ptelea, Tulip, Ginko, Foxglove, Judas, Handkerchief, Catalpa, Amalanchier and, of course, Aylanthus Altissimus, Wheelchair Access; Plants For Sale. Admission: £4.00, child £2.00. Sutton Hosey Manor, Long Sutton, TA10 9NA, 2m E of Langport, on A372. Gates N of A372 at E end of Long Sutton.

Visitors are also welcome by arrangement Aug to Sept.

To see more gardens open for the NGS, http://www.ngs.org.uk

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.

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Gardening is a regular monthly feature in ...

 August Issue PRINT: Thursday 30th July  DEADLINE: Friday 17th July To Advertise Tel: 01963 351256 Or Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

the end bit...

PAPERCHASE

WHILE THIS COLUMN has been preoccupied in the last couple of issues with the increasing cover prices of the Western Daily Press and the Western Gazette, the free publications serving their circulation area have continued to thrive. In my recent travels through Visitorland I have picked up no fewer than a dozen different free newspapers and magazines, some of them longestablished and others quite new (and new to me). As freebies depend on advertising revenue to cover their editorial, production and distribution costs, it’s a sure sign that the local economy is improving.

Of those I’ve written about before in this column, The Dove continues to impress. Since its launch in 2009 Bruton’s monthly community magazine has grown from 32 to 72 A5 pages and continues to carry plenty of community news, events listings, a pub and restaurant directory and short feature articles, and the design, typography, layout and cover photographs all ooze elegance, the proof-reading is exemplary and the printing is crisp on good quality paper.

Equally impressive is the Langport Leveller, now in its fifth year and running to 48 A4 pages including an extensive directory of businesses and events and

plenty of editorial features. Most of these are not simply revamped press releases and ‘advertorials’; they are up-to-the-minute items of news of relevance to the communities in its circulation area plus some letters from its readers. Most are very well written, and if some are opinionated and contentious they are none the worse for that. Both of these publications are printed throughout in black and white, although The Dove has one spot colour on its cover.

Impressive, too, and in full colour throughout is the monthly Mendip Times, now in its 11th year. This freebie has grown to 108 pages and continues to contain plenty of good local news stories and photos. Another full colour freebie is What’s on Somerset, the quarterly A4 magazine published and printed in Taunton but ostensibly covering the entire county. The Spring 2015 issue runs to 48 pages and contains a goodly number of short features and fairly extensive events listings, all packaged in an imaginative design and crisply printed.

Likewise The South Wilts Magazine, a bi-monthly freebie that, despite its title, circulates in Visitorland in Gillingham and Shaftesbury, both in Dorset, as well as in Mere, Wiltshire. This well-produced A5 magazine runs to just 32 pages but is full of interesting short articles and an events listing focussed mainly on Salisbury and Shaftesbury.

Although some of the copy is clearly ‘advertorial’ it’s generally well written, concise and carefully proof-read.

The two Dorset towns also feature in the title of the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Valley News, a colourful monthly tabloid that is new to me.

Published from Wilton since

2006, the March issue runs to 72 pages and contains plenty of news – and plenty of adverts too! – but apart from a few North Dorset District Council items it contains next to nothing relating to Gillingham or Shaftesbury.

Relevant perhaps to people living between Tisbury and Salisbury, but the paper is of little interest to Visitorland readers. In any case the towns in the title are already well served by monthly A5 freebies published by the Blackmore Vale Magazine team in Stalbridge, Gillingham Matters since October 2012 and Shaftesbury Matters since April 2013, each carrying news of the town council and local groups, articles about local people and a directory of local traders, services and businesses. They must have proved successful because I see that the BVM team launched Sherborne Matters in April, but I haven’t laid my hands on a copy yet. However, while perusing the Gillingham and Shaftesbury

Valley News it didn’t escape my notice that the assistant editor is none other than former BVM editor Fanny Charles.

Finally, yet another example of slipshod production, this one from the 22nd May issue of the Western Daily Press.

In these days of electronic page make-up it beggars belief that a mistake as obvious as a missing photograph can be made. Does nobody cast a critical eye over the pages before they go to press?

Chronicler.

Solution to June

Sudoku

Sudoku

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 14

1. '... so close to me' 2. 'Dominoes' 3. 'Rolling Stones'

'Haircut 100' George Ezra (Barnett) Peter Sarstedt Tracy Chapman 8. 'A Hard Days Night' 9. Manfred Mann 10. Billy Idol 4.

5.

6.

7.

Bonus Question 1969

Question Impossible 'Sunscreen' by Baz Luhrrmann

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.

THE VISITOR July 2015 63

Classified Ads

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

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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.

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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

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.

QUALIFIED live-in carer, Street. Terms and conditions by arrangement. For further information phone 01458 442880.

1960s / 70s PLASTIC TOY SOLDIERS, knights, cowboys, castles, garden. Timpo trains. Tractors. WW1 helmets, posters.

Tel: 07823 443474.

GUNS WANTED for cash. Any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. Tel: 07970 742471.

MALE 64, own house and car, likes meditation, music, trips out, old vehicles.

Seeks female companion / relationship.

Tel: 07762 461696.

Mobile Bars / Catering

Services

Holidays

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

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.

64 THE VISITOR July 2015

HARRY’S MOBILE BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

MEVAGISSEY Holiday Cottage - spacious accommodation in South Cornwall with views overlooking the quaint harbour and out to sea - sleeps 4 - enquiries 07971 782738 or polkirtforge@btinternet.com

For Sale

ULTRALITE 480 MOBILE SCOOTER, new batteries fitted, never been used. Red in colour. New condition £150 ovno.

Telephone evenings 01963 350679.

Domestic - Commercial - Venetian - Roman - Pleated

PERFECT FIT BLINDS

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Denture Repairs

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Home visits a speciality

DENTURE REPAIRS

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01749 812585

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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

Advertising

Get Your Business NOTICED!

ADVERTISE HERE! This space costs just £47.21 per month ... inclusive of VAT (That’s less than £11 a week)

Tel: 01963 351256

Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

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Contact JAMES CADE on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

August Deadline Friday 17th July

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

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Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 For all your roofing requirements

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UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I MAT ES

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... 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 July 2015 65

PHONE - a - FIRM

Decorating

IRS Decorations Internal & External Painting

City & Guilds Qualified Priced Work or Day Work from ... £80 per day Taking Bookings for External Work All Materials at Cost Free Estimate and OAP Discounts

Tel: 01935 849274 07782 353713

Set by Frank Butler

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

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG – to arrive by Friday 17th July.

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

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

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GOOD POTATOES

Anchor Hill Service Station WINCANTON 01963 32609

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Domestic Appliances

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Washing Machines  Vacuum Cleaners Cookers  Tumble Dryers etc.

SPARES – REPAIRS – SERVICING

Sparkford 01963 440689 • Yeovil 01935 474284 — 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

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

The Visitor can be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

66 THE VISITOR July 2015

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Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor Gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices

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Services

Pe

Prize Crossword No. 345

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18

16

19

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21 22

23

26

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28

29

Across: 1.

4.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

15.

17.

19.

22.

24.

26.

27.

28.

29.

25

When Sal swallowed and found footwear. [6] Place of assembly of truth or unknown? [7] Stewing veal ruins everywhere.

[9] Thin garments hide the object you seek. [5] Zones exisit because joined up.

[5] Lent shape in order to trace animals. [9] Uses ruse in non-U emus. [7] Mediant I omitted arranging for a couple’s ride. [6] Attempt to hug tree is cheap. [6] Clothed at red with it returned within. [7] Purified, girl’s brought to a halt.

[9] Susie’s upset may be a problem.

[5] Honour after empty goal led to a ball. [5] General expenses of Evo, shared upon adjustment. [9] Obey! Sit in the middle, you’re too fat! [7] PS: Tour rearranged in a daze.

[6]

6.

7.

8.

14.

16.

18.

19.

20.

21.

23.

25.

Entire ore worked up to make way by map and compass. [9] Is my go organised to withdraw from sensual contact? [6] Push erstwhile clients away!

Guides are within. [6] Copperise arrangement for submarine lookout. [9] Squirming lot within isn’t fashionable. [3,4,2] Shout ‘ow!’ with last dry primrose. [7] Gone off with sum won. [6] Theatre worker’s sideboard? [7] Fuss about GI rather slowly. [6] Ancient Britons found Northern Ireland covered by ice. [5] First stir instrument is acute. [5]

Solution to Crossword 344

Down: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Wise man in Amercia? The other way around for saveloy.

[7] I’m in part of a church: Is that too simple? [5] Hates and states the truth above charged atoms. [9] Nut with BT flier resorted. [7] How to get out pet with central heating. [5]

THE WINNER of our June Crossword was Mrs. H. Barnes, of Shepton Mallet, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at the Natterjack, Evercreech Junction.

GILLINGHAM SHAFTESBURY 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

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The Freedom oF mobiliTy Get out and about ...

Mobility Scooters 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

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The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN

 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 ...

Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel

10 Falkland Square Crewkerne TA18 7JS

Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com www.sherbornekitchens.com

Tel: 01460 271172

Tel: 01935 817111

(near the Co-op)