The Visitor Magazine Issue 395 October 2016

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 01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Issue 395 October 2016

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In Passing...

M

ORE THAN 40 years have passed since 13-year-old Carl Barlow was filmed pushing his bike laden with Hovis bread up Gold Hill to deliver to customers’ homes.

The ITV advert ensured that Gold Hill would become Shaftesbury’s most famous sight, and tourists still flock to the town to admire and photograph the cobbled street, its picturesque cottages and the panoramic views over Dorset. The advert evoked nostalgia for the Victorian and Edwardian times when almost all food retailers in country towns offered to deliver purchases to customers’ homes. So the home delivery services provided nowadays by most of the major supermarkets are nothing new. What is new is the massive increase in internet shopping, and its convenience and speed of delivery are clearly appreciated by busy households that have difficulty in finding time to visit the shops.

A s a conseq uence of this and the proliferation of edge-of-town supermarkets, traditional retailers have suffered such a drop in trade that many village and town shops have closed down. In an attempt to alleviate this, successive governments have poured money into schemes for regenerating market towns and villages and given hardship relief to rural businesses that are struggling to pay their business rates. However, at the same time they have vociferously promoted e.commerce for all it’s worth as the future of retailing that benefits consumers by cutting costs, saving time, increasing choice and giving 24-hour access. Which makes one wonder just how serious they were in their rural regeneration efforts.

A potentially more serious consequence is that our increasing reliance on fresh food bought online is making air pollution significantly worse. Diesel-powered delivery vans from distant supermarkets pollute in a way that the delivery boy biking from the local shop never did. And because we are eating more and more chilled food, many delivery vans now carry fridges to store our

fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish.

Their cooling is usually powered by a secondary diesel engine which can emit far more pollutants than the main engine pulling it round. If supermarkets are to play their part in improving air quality they must be made to reduce their reliance on diesel fleets, not just the vans that deliver to our homes but also the juggernauts that deliver stock to their stores. The good news is that Sainsbury’s is currently trialling the world’s first delivery truck with a zeroemissions air-cooled refrigeration unit powered by liquid nitrogen, which is a promising first step.

The 1974 Hovis commercial went on to be voted Britain’s favourite advert of all time. Would the sight of a Tesco delivery truck climbing Gold Hill (accompanied again by a brass band playing Dvorak’s New World Symphony) evoke the same affection. I doubt it!

NN.

Advertising Deadlines

November Issue published Thursday 27th October Deadline Friday 14th October

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.

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Proprietor Helen Dunion Accounts, Editorial & Subscriptions Rachel Hancox Production Manager Jeff Farrow Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock © The Visitor Ltd. 2016

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

CONTENTS

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to a 300 year anniversary

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 66 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 12 BRUTON - 17 BUSINESS - 16 CROSSWORD - 66 EVERGREEN Care for the Elderly - 43 FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS - 33 GILLINGHAM - 7 GARDENING - 58 HOUSE & HOME - 24 ILMINSTER business focus - 48 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 19 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE ... a new look for autumn - 11 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 42 MUSIC for the MONTH - 20 NOTICE BOARD - 16 PAPERCHASE - 63 PHONE-A-FIRM - 64 PUBS - 55 SJH CARPETS, Wincanton, business focus - 25 THEY SAY - 56 WINE & DINE - 62 YEOVIL business focus - 50 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR October 2016 3

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4 THE VISITOR October 2016

Letters To the Editor

Grammar Schools

Sir, As a former free school meals kid, who grew up in a council flat with my mum, who was a single parent, I have found it difficult in the last few days to listen to the rhetoric of the naysayers in the wake of the Education Secretary’s announcement over the reintroduction of grammar schools.

I am one of the 3% from a ‘poor’ family who had the opportunity to go to grammar school and will forever be thankful for that.

Whilst I have never been a high flyer, there was too much else going in my family for me to be able to achieve my full potential, what I gained, and what I feel is of the utmost importance, is an understanding of the importance and value of education, and what it can help one to do in later life.

Much has been said about social mobility and the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’. There is no doubt that those families who are better off have an unfair advantage when it comes to access to good education; the ability to move to an area with better schools, or to have their children coached to ensure success in the required exams, whether it be the 11+ or common entrance exam for a public school.

What is missing here though,

is the importance of attitude towards education. I am still the only person in my entire family to have obtained ‘A’ levels and some form of further education, largely gained during adulthood, as at the time going on to university was not an option.

I have what borders on an obsession with learning, always taking up the offer of free classes in subjects I am interested in; I just cannot get enough.

Children all have different abilities. Some will be academically gifted, whilst others will have practical skills that may not stand up so well to formal ex a m ina t ion. B ot h t y p e s o f learning, as long as learning is taking place, have an equal value in modern day society. I believe that this balance between the practical and academic cannot always best be served in a comprehensive school. There is often the argument that gifted and talented children do not achieve their full potential in such an environment. This is in part borne out by the number of families I know who are in the lower social economic demographic, but who invest a disproportionate amount of their small incomes on ensuring that their children go to the best school they can afford. ‘Free school meals’ is also a red herring; there are many, many families who are eligible but not claiming because of the continued stigma.

It is patronising to refer to lower income families as if they are

somehow a different species deliberately being excluded from the upper echelons of society. In my experience this is not necessarily the case.

What is paramount, is that we, as a society, instill in everyone, no matter what their social status, a sense of a hopeful successful future, without barriers. One in which everyone can achieve whatever it is that they want, and that when the time comes the support, and appropriate education, will be there for the asking.

One size does not fit all. The focus must always be on what is best for the individual child, which may well be access to a grammar school environment, or not. What must not happen though, is that the opportunity to attend one is seen as any form of elitism.

Linda Piggott-Vijeh Vicarage Hill Combe St. Nicholas

Gillingham Carnival Road Closures

Sir, Dorset County Council have approved the following Temporary Road Closures on Saturday 8th October for Gillingham Carnival Processions: Saturday 8th October 14.50

until 16.15 Afternoon Childrens Carnival. Gillingham town centre roads will be closed from the High Street junction with Station Road, Turners Lane, and Queen Street.

Saturday 8th October 15.00 to 21.30 Brickfields Business Park.

Saturday 8th October 18.30 to 21.30 Evening Carnival Processions. Fairey Crescent, Bay Road, Queen Street, Turners Lane, The Square, High Street, part of Higher Station Road (Paris Court junction to High Street), part of Le Neubourg Way (Station Road junction to Newbury Roundabout), Newbury, New Road.

There will be no specified alternative route for traffic, Gillingham Carnival Committee apologise for any inconvenience caused by the above road closures.

Gillingham Carnival Committee is an independent group of volunteers who organise and run Gillingham Carnival by raising funds through events, donations and street collections to finance the annual Gillingham Carnival processions.

Thank you for your assistance.

Tim Kingsmill, Chief Marshal Gillingham Carnival Committee

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CHRISTMAS IS COMING! Plan your Christmas advertising early: Christmas Gifts – Events – Festive Dining Late Night Openings etc.

Print dates for the Christmas run up ...

NOVEMBER Print: Thursday 27th October  Deadline: Friday 14th October DECEMBER Print: Thursday 24th November  Deadline: Friday 11th November CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR (JANUARY) Print: Thursday 15th December  Deadline: Friday 2nd December

Tel: 01963 351256

Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk “Your advert reaching 60,000 readers”

THE VISITOR October 2016 5

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Our Front Cover

Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown 1716 – 2016

2016 MARKS THE 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, a designer who changed the face of eighteenth century England, designing country estates and mansions, moving hills and making flowing lakes and serpentine rivers, a magical world of green.

Brown left remarkably few records of where he worked, but his many famous landmarks include Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle, Hampton Court Palace, and more locally Wardour Castle, Longleat and Sherborne Castle.

His style, derived from the two practical principles of comfort and elegance, had to cohere and look elegant. And whilst his designs offer great variety, they also appear seamless owing to his use of the sunk fence or ‘ha-ha’ to confuse the eye into believing that different pieces of parkland, though managed and stocked quite differently, were one. His expansive lakes, at different levels and apparently unconnected, formed a single body of water as if a river through the landscape, that like the parkland itself, ran on indefinitely.

Visit www.capability brown.org for more information and a map showing all the definitive and attributed sites he is thought to have worked on.

His nickname of ‘Capability’ is thought to have come from his describing landscapes as having ‘great capabilities’.

your festive shopping.

Refreshments include coffee, wine and delicious lunches and desserts. Entry £3, free parking.

Wincanton’s Cale Park is given a £186,000 transformation

The transformed Cale Park play area was officially unveiled on Thursday 25 August.

The exciting play area forms part of a wider masterplan developed by Wincanton Town Council with support from South Somerset District Council and Landscape Architects Redbay Design - for the long term improvement of Cale Park.

Improvements on the site include a variety of swings, an all ability toddler multi-unit, sand diggers, a play train, 300 tons of play sand and a 3m high mound which will accommodate a 2m wide wavy slide and a castle.

Access to the play area has also been improved thanks to a new 18m long pedestrian footbridge over the River Cale.

The improvements on the site are for the whole community to enjoy. Support from the local voluntary group Community Action to Transform the Cale Habitat (CATCH) has been instrumental in reclaiming previously derelict land to provide a wildflower meadow which will improve over the years to come.

Careful consideration has also

been given to landscaping the play area and this has included a new tree, hedge and shrub planting. This will help to provide seasonal interest and benefit the local wildlife in keeping with the location next to the River Cale.

Autumn Talks at the Museum of Somerset

The Museum of Somerset’s autumn events programme of heritage and history talks has been announced.

The programme opens on 4 October with Dr Hilary Custance Green. ‘Writing to a Ghost’ explores the untold stories of the Thailand– Burma railway and of the families waiting at home in Britain.

On 11 October the museum welcomes a leading authority on the Ice Age in Britain and Western Europe, Professor Danielle Schreve of Royal Holloway, University of London.

Professor Shreve, who has made a particular study of the bone caves of the Mendip Hills, will talk about ‘The Haunt of the Hippo: The Ice Age in Southern England’.

For tickets, prices and times visit: ticketsource.co.uk/the museumofsomerset

Langport goes for gold in Great British High Street competition

Langport is in the running as part of a nationwide search for Britain’s Best High Street.

Early Christmas Fair

Somerton & Frome Conservatives (in support of the Castle Cary Branch of Macmillan Cancer Support) have organised an Early Christmas Fair on Tuesday 18th October. Open from 10am until 3.30pm at Wincanton Racecourse Marquee, stalls include toys, ladies’ fashions and accessories, jewellery, homewares, books, food and cards - an ideal place to start

6 THE VISITOR October 2016

More than 30 hot air balloons joined in to create the UK’s biggest Night Glow event during Longleat’s Sky Safari. The three-day extravaganza 16,17,18th September also saw 50 balloons take to the skies in a 30-minute period to mark the 50th anniversary of the Wiltshire attractions world-renowned Safari Park, the first of its kind to open outside of Africa.

Langport businesses are convinced that their high street has something special and is a worthy competitor for this award.

With over 95%+ of independent shops, cafes, businesses and restaurants, this little high street is quirky, different and like no other. There is free parking in town, a monthly market and a close-knit business community that believe in the future of Langport’s high street. Why? Because most of the local businesses were born in Langport and strive to remain independent, allowing them to truly know their local customers and to be able to respond to the local needs and requirements in a quick and flexible way. This attitude has resulted in the town being a little shopping haven, where you can purchase items found nowhere else. That is why, in Langport, they say ‘Langport, where it’s to’, creating their very own little hashtag #WhereItsTo. Langport has applied in the Market Town category of the Great British High Street of the Year award, in recognition of the town team’s efforts to revitalise the area. The collaborative effort included support from the District Council, Langport Town Council, Transition Town Langport, the many independent businesses in the town and Langport Area Business Group who are driving this initiative and who have all worked tirelessly to invigorate this high street.

If successful, Langport will win a share of the cash prize pot, and dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts.

The competition is a great way of sharing successful ideas to regenerate high streets and make them vibrant places to shop and socialise.

John Rice-Lewis, Chair of the Langport Area Business Group adds: ‘Our high street is a vital part of our community and makes an important contribution to the local economy, enabling people to shop locally in a wide variety of independent shops and also the jobs it supports in retail, leisure and other businesses.

There’s a renewed buzz on Langport high street and this competition is searching for the very best ideas, innovation and creativity which is great news for our town and fingers crossed our entry will be successful.’

The public can support Langport’s nomination at www. thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk and if shortlisted will be able to vote for their favourite high street.

GILLINGHAM

FROM TIME TO TIME I visit Gillingham to use the shops, to catch a train to London, to gather material for Visitor articles and to have my annual check-up at the opticians. I always find it to be an unpretentious and friendly town, a pleasant environment for its growing population to live, work and bring up their families.

But I can’t pretend that it is a pretty town, tarted up to draw the tourists. It keeps its picturesque attractions well hidden and you must be prepared to abandon the car and explore on foot to find them.

The acres of modern housing stretching out into the countryside create an impression of characterless modernity, and there’s a lot more to come in the years ahead. Census returns show that Gillingham’s population almost doubled in the 19th century, from 1,873 in 1801 to 3,380 in 1901. Thirty years ago the population had grown to around 6,000, and nowadays it is nearer 12,000, with housing estates filling the fields north to

Described in the early 1900s as a drab church too large for the town, Gillingham’s parish church now serves a population that is almost 400% larger than in 1901.

THE VISITOR October 2016 7

GILLINGHAM

Peacemarsh and beyond to within half a mile of tranquil Milton-onStour, and east as far as Orchard Park. In the next 20 years the town is likely to continue expanding dramatically, this time to the south. The district council envisages around 1,800 more houses being built in the next two decades, mainly in the area between Lodden Lakes, Ham and Park Farm.

The result will be another huge expansion of what had been, until the mid-19th century, a small agricultural town and service centre for the surrounding villages and hamlets in the remote northernmost tip of Dorset. Driving into Gillingham now, it is hard to picture Bay, Ham, Peacemarsh and Wyke as

hamlets, small clusters of dwellings separated from the town itself by fields, trees and streams.

Domesday Book of 1086 tells us that ‘Gelingeham’ was the king’s land, but its history goes back to Saxon times when it was the homestead of Gilla and his family and followers, so the placename experts tell us. In 1199 King John had a palatial hunting lodge built in what had by then become his Royal Hunting Forest.

It survived for more than 250 years, but you could be forgiven for assuming that little else was built in Gillingham until the mid19th century, for the handful of older buildings that survive are tucked away and take some finding. Even the 14th century

chancel of the parish church is concealed amidst its 19th and 20th century additions. In part this is because a disastrous fire in 1694 destroyed much of the little town, and another broke out in 1742, but by the mid-18th century Gillingham had

developed into a thriving place, processing and retailing agricultural and forestry produce as diverse as wool, flax, silk and timber as well as grain, meat and dairy produce.

The coming of the railway in 1859 sparked more growth and

“Pirouette Circus Horse”

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The design of Gillingham’s 21st century housing estates and properties is more imaginative than those of the late 20th century.

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8 THE VISITOR October 2016

Unit 11, Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JX

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GILLINGHAM

diversification. Some local businessmen foresaw that the railway’s presence would result in the town and its industries expanding and needing more bricks, hence brickmaking soon became one of the town’s major industries as there were ample

supplies of clay in the vicinity.

Population growth led to the construction of more houses, this time in local brick, so much so that in the early 1900s the traveller Sir Frederick Treves wrote disparagingly of Gillingham as ‘a sprawling,

uninteresting town, with a drab church too large for it, and many new red brick houses which are elemental in their ugliness’.

Looking at some of these houses now, it is clear that Treves’s

criticism was unjustifiably harsh.

You could be forgiven for thinking that nothing more was built between 1914 and the 1980s, for there is a sharp contrast between the substantial

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The coming of the railway in 1859 sparked more growth and diversification in Gillingham and gave it a station building designed by Sir William Tite, the man who designed London’s Royal Exchange.

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THE VISITOR October 2016 9

GILLINGHAM

brick Victorian architecture of the town centre and the rows of little block boxes packed neatly into the surrounding estates in the 1980s and 90s, with little in the way of inter-war housing to soften the division. Since the mid-1980s Gillingham has expanded at an amazing rate and the building boom has continued into the 21st century – and thankfully the design of the estates and properties appears to have improved a little.

The effects of the growing population on the town centre are immediately apparent. Now, as in bygone days, people come into Gillingham from miles around to use the shops – and perhaps to work or study or use such services as banks, doctors and suchlike.

And nowadays it appears to be prosperous. The busy shopping centre contains not only the Waitrose, Asda, Iceland and Lidl supermarkets but also a goodly selection of small businesses catering for almost every conceivable need. Indeed the long High Street boasts a far greater

Gillingham’s long High Street boasts a far greater variety of highquality retailers than one might expect to find in a small town.

variety of high-quality retailers than one might expect to find in a small town, and there are more to be discovered on Station Road and other side turnings. In last May’s Visitor I wrote about a couple of new businesses I had spotted in the town centre, and when I visited again in midSeptember both seemed to be thriving.

A big event that attracts

visitors to Gillingham is its annual carnival which this year takes place on Saturday 8th October. It provides an

entertaining and enjoyable reason for coming and seeing Gillingham at its liveliest, and perhaps doing a spot of shopping and stopping for a meal or a drink. The big illuminated procession of floats passes through the town centre from 7.15pm, and earlier in the day there’s a children’s procession that sets off from the primary school at 3.00pm, so there will be plenty to see. Inevitably several roads, notably High Street and Queen Street, will be closed to motorists for long periods during the afternoon and evening, and Brickfields Business Park will be closed from 3.00pm through till 9.30pm. For details take a look at the website www.gillingham carnival.org.uk or phone the Town Council on 01747 823588.

Roger Richards.

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Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4RE

Turn into Broad Robin off B3081, continue past Mellowes Residential Home: Thorngrove is next on right

 01747 822242 Email: thorngrove.staff@scope.org.uk

✿ Autumn Bedding and Spring Bulbs now available

✿ Bring in Hanging Baskets to refill, or book to make your own in an Autumn Basket Workshop, 12th, 13th or 14th October, 2pm – 4pm each day ✿ Autumn Sale coming up in October Selected shrubs, herbaceous, roses, fruit etc. – HALF PRICE TREES – SHRUBS – HERBS – SUNDRIES

Thorngrove Garden Centre was set up by Scope Scope exists to make this country a place where disabled people have the same opportunities as everyone else. Until then, we’ll be here.

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10 THE VISITOR October 2016

At the western end of the High Street is The Phoenix, a former coaching inn, and Scenes art shop offering a fine selection of paintings and prints, artists’ materials and a framing service.

ACF WINDOWS

ANDY FELTHAM

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

The Old Well House Shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GILLINGHAM, Dorset SP8 5HX Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344

Looking Good - a new look for autumn Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie

Autumn is upon us, time to explore all the wonderful colours in cashmere knitwear this season.

With new styles added the choice is endless.

Our trouser department is larger than ever but to look that one size smaller NYDJ (Not Your Daughters Jeans) are always a firm favourite. Brax jeans are always a good fit with the patterned jean being a favourite this season. We hold Robell trousers in lots of colours with a comfortable elasticated waist and a price that is affordable. With over 2500 pairs of trousers and jeans in stock you are sure to find that perfect fit.

Joseph Ribkoff has one of the strongest ranges for many seasons; from smart and casual wear through to special occasion. This season we have some lovely fulllength coats (by request). We hope you find them as exciting as we do.

New for the fuller figure this season and up to size 30 is Chalou in red and black.

We continue to stock the ever popular designers Joules, Seasalt, White Stuff and Crew in our West Side department. With ladies fashions in sizes 8 - 30 we hope we have it covered.

This season in our shoe and bag department, Radley bags are a firm favourite while Ugg boots and slippers are a special treat for those cold winter days and evenings.

Our lingerie department stocks sizes 28AA - 50K. We pride ourselves that all of the great team are fully trained bra fitters, with a free fitting service with no obligation to buy and top brands including Triumph, Lepel, Charnos, Bestform, Fantasie, Freya and Anita Care (mastectomy) to name but a few. Nightwear is available, plus swimwear for those looking forward to a late holiday (or those just keen to swim!). Check out our new online lingerie website www.brashop uk.com

Tel: 01747 852444. (Tickets for show times cannot be swapped and tickets will not be available on the door).

Needful Things

Needful Things is having a busy time behind the scenes this month, as they undertake their year end stock-take, (Year 18 starts on the 1st of October!).

This is also a busy time as Autumn ranges start to arrive, such as the beautiful In Town and Pomodoro A/W clothing collections, full of rich Autumn tones of Ochre, Russet, Plum and a stunning Blue.

Forgive the excitement but we are also taking into our storerooms the first hint of Christmas stock which

we won't put out just yet but needs checking, pricing and colour blocking ready for our imminent seasonal displays! Add to this, the need to create 4 Carnival windows, and planning some changes to our

website, social media and signage, and you can imagine how our feet are hardly touching the ground!

Rest assured though, in amongst all this exciting work, we will always find time to welcome

Ponchos are this seasons ‘must have’ for the fashion-conscious.

The one pictured is by designer In Town. Local stockist Needful Things, Castle Cary.

Charity Fashion Show by Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie

A charity fashion show in aid of Forest Holme Hospice, Poole will take place at The Coppleridge Inn, Motcombe, SP7 9HW on Friday 21st October at 3pm & 7pm.

Tickets £15, to include a drink and canapés, available from Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie, 30 High Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JG.

THE VISITOR October 2016 11

FREE

SPARE PAIR

with any frame from our £75 range or above

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Family Health with

Jenna Evans

Tooth & Gum Care Part One

EYES RIGHT OPTICIANS

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.

12 THE VISITOR October 2016

THIS MONTH we’ll be taking a look at nutritional support for our precious teeth and gums. First, let’s start with a little anatomical refresher.

Born without teeth, from around 6 months the trauma of teething begins! By the age of 12-13, we’ll have lost our primary or milk teeth (20 in total) and will have our 28 adult teeth (with an extra 4 wisdom teeth that may never emerge).

Teeth are comprised of an outer enamel surface (the hardest substance in the body), an inner, softer but still tough dentine that acts as a shock absorber and a central soft dental pulp, that contains the blood vessels and nerves. Teeth are secured below the gum by cementum and periodontal ligament tissues. There are four types of teeth - incisors for cutting; canines for tearing; premolars and molars (to crush and grind). Just in case you ever wondered what on earth your ‘eye teeth’ are, they are the canines - so called as the upper canines lie in line with your eyes. Teeth are the first stage in the digestive process, helping to break down foods and

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mixing them with the beginnings of enzymatic digestion from salivary amylase. Saliva incidentally, when healthy, does a great job of keeping our teeth and gums happily bathed in friendly bacteria rich fluid, preventing those pesky bad bugs from wreaking havoc.

Infections, abscesses and cavities are all common (and painful!) afflictions of the teeth. Poor nutrition obviously plays a big role here and most people accept the notion that lots of sugar, sticky foods and acidic substances can be very damaging to the protective enamel. This is not quite the end of the story however, as though there may be no miracle way of rebuilding enamel, remineralising of the teeth does have merit. When it comes to the gums, gingivitis which may manifest as bleeding and inflamed gums, is considered a precursor to full blown gum disease (peridontitis) if left unchecked. No doubt your dentist will wax lyrical about general tooth care, so I’m not going to tell you how to brush your pearly whites here. We’ll take a look at a few helpful supplements for preventing and treating tooth decay and gum disease instead.

Minerals and fat soluble vitamins all come up time and again if you look into the subject of tooth remineralisation (there are lots of books dedicated to the subject if you want to dig deeper). Vitamin A & D in particular are helpful for mucosal health of the mouth and immunity of these tissues. Bear in mind that one of the most common deficiencies in this country is Vitamin D which I’ll be taking from now on until early Summer.

Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and zinc are involved in the building of dental tissue.

Whereas the B vitamins and vitamin C are helpful for promoting mucosal health and connective tissue strength into the gums.

Whe n using vit a m in C i t i s important to either take it with

Looking Good - a new look for autumn bioflavanoids or as a superfood powder such as my favourite, Camu Berry. A teaspoon a day gives a good level of Vitamin C and I think it’s quite tasty too! For gingivitis I would definitely consider supplementing CoQ10 at 50mg upwards and Pycnogenol, a pine bark extract. Both of these can be helpful for inflamed and bleeding gums. Upping levels of beneficial bacteria can be useful too with strains such as Lactobacillus GG and Reuteri often recommended.

You can get these in a capsule and mix with water to form a kind of mouthwash as well as taking them internally. Lastly, if you have a sweet tooth (excuse the pun), the sugar alternative Xylitol may be for you. Not only is it low GI, diabetic and candida sufferer friendly, Xylitol is actually used in some dental products (toothaste,mouthwash, gum etc.) to help prevent cavities. You can buy it in granules and use it pretty much as you would sugar. There are a few Xylitol based chocolates on the market too, yum!

Next month we’ll take a look at a few home remedies for tooth care (ever heard of oil-pulling?) and get creative with some home made dental products. See you then!

Jenna Evans ©2016

 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.

Amour Lingerie

Explore Fantasie’s opulent AW16 collection. Stylish and luxurious; Fantasie introduces Sofia, a brand new premium collection adorned with Swiss designed, baroque inspired embroidery in tones of luscious gold and black. Available in two decadent colourways: Ivory

and Black, the underwired padded half cup bra features wide wires for additional comfort and support and is lightly padded to give fantastic shape, definition and uplift. It also features a delicate

embroidery trim which adds the perfect finishing touches to the straps, cradle and hook and eye (available in 30-38” C-G cup). This range also includes a waspie that is fully lined and boned for a smooth

fashion boutique

Add a splash of colour this autumn NEW COLLECTION NOW IN

Black robe dress with back zip detail from the Joseph Ribkoff Collection at Preview of Wincanton.

Market Place • Wincanton •  01963 31676

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Isabella by Fantasie available from Amour Lingerie in Wincanton.

7 Market Place Wincanton ▪ BA9 9LL

 01963 32808 ▪ www.amour-lingerie.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2016 13

Looking Good - a new look for autumn Bags, scarves and costume jewellery from Olia, Treaty and Dante.

Give your wardrobe a new look with a visit to Parade Boutique of Langport.

silhouette with hook and eye fastening at the back (available in S-XL). Complete your vintage look with the Italian brief or brazilian thong (XS-XL).

Crafted and considered; Fantasie’s Isabella adorns herself in a delicate and light lace with beautiful organza bows and gem details. The underwired padded half cup bra features wide wires for additional comfort and support and is lightly padded to give fantastic shape, definition and uplift. A brand new shape for Fantasie, constructed with lavish French lace, the underwired

Local active wear start-up supports UK women’s grassroots sport

AUTUMN COLLECTION From Lily & Me and Italian

Goose Island Colourful Knitwear Easy To Wear Tunics and Dresses Jeggings  Scarves  Bags  Slippers Vintage Greetings Cards

Neal’s Yard Remedies Call in and see our full range ...

April’s, e Black & White Shop 13 Fore Street, Castle Cary Somerset, BA7 7BG  01963 351626 Email: aedmills@btinternet.com

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14 THE VISITOR October 2016

This kimono-style top in a vintage print is just one of many easy to wear tops now in for autumn at April’s of Castle Cary.

strapless basque is based on the padded half cup frame, with full boning throughout and a slightly longer body for a very flattering silhouette over the hip. Pair with the brief, brazillian thong (available XS-XL) or short (XS-XXL) and complete your sensuous look with the suspender belt (XS-XL).

Parade Boutique

Parade Boutique offer an inspiring range of fashion this autumn including striking knitwear from Marble. Keep warm this winter with a gilet or this seasons must have, a poncho. A comprehensive selection of trousers are stocked to suit all tastes from leading designers such as In Town, Robell, Gardeur and Amazing Woman.

The Michaela Louisa dresses and separates from Florence are flying out of the door with their flattering styling and bold colour ways.

New for this season is a range of wonderfully soft leather jackets in a variety of styles in a choice of colours. A full range of accessories are always in stock including leather handbags from Blousey

A new female active wear brand Boudavida, based in Shepton Mallet and launched on 19th September, will generate over £50,000 for grassroots women's sports.

With women’s participation in sports and physical activity finally on the increase according to recent Sport England figures, Boudavida will boost this positive trend by donating 5% of all sales to worthwhile female athletes, projects, charities and campaigns.

Customers will choose where the money goes from the three grant options available each month.

Somerset based founder of Boudavida, Anabel Sexton is currently on the Board of The England Golf Partnership, is a member of England Golf’s Women & Girls Advisory Committee and is Deputy Chair and Governor for Sport at Millfield School. In the past she has served on the boards of the Sport & Recreation Alliance and England Netball, and acted as a panel expert for Sport England during their Active Women funding round.

Identifying a gap in the market for an active wear range conceived by real women for all women, the clothing line brings function and fashion together, creating products that women can feel confident wearing. The clothing is designed to flatter and suit the female form, instilling confidence in wearers to be the best, most active versions of themselves.

Anabel comments: ‘The range has been a long time in development - it’s something that I am incredibly passionate about.

We need to encourage women and girls to get active and promote the benefits exercise has on our minds as well as our bodies. By providing

Looking Good - a new look for autumn Pictured right: Janome Model 5255 priced at £249 is a good mid-range sewing machine (as seen on The Sew Bee Television programme).

Hanson’s Fabric & Crafts have a good choice of sewing machines in stock starting from just £139.

Why not call in and see for yourself?

See the latest in store promotions.

The Room

New jewellery collection available at Oxford Mill, Castle Cary.

a range of affordable, stylish and comfortable sports and active wear, we aim to inspire women to be brave and bold and achieve their own, personal goals.’

Initially an eCommerce business, Boudavida anticipates a high street presence in the first five years.

To find out more about Boudavida and for updates on availability of its active wear range please visit: www. boudavida.com

Are we thinking of Autumn yet?

We have most of our Autumn /Winter stock in. Lovely cashmere and great shirts from Charli and, of course, the stylish with that edge, Sarah Pacini. In November we will be stocking ... A Postcard from Brighton ... great easy to wear, soft fluid jersey, subtle colours and ultimately a fantastic price.

We are waiting for the imminent arrival of the fabulous Cowshed products from Babington House, the luxury brand of body lotions, candles and even some pieces for the old Bullock in your life!

Bubbly served on Saturdays!

Look forward to seeing you.

Oxford Mill of Castle Cary

Clothing, Accessories & Fine Toiletries For Women and Men

The Market Place, Castle Cary, BA7 7AG  01963 350230 • www.oxfordmillclothing.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2016 15

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

Printing at Papertrees

Papertrees of Wincanton offer a complete printing service from posters and leaflets through to training manuals and brochures.

Binding and laminating is also available. On the premises photocopying up to A3 is a very popular service.

Recently introduced is a range of signages such as as A boards and banners - also promotional stickers to promote your business.

Business accounts for office stationery are welcome – with free local delivery and a discounted price structure.

A newspaper delivery service is available to both domestic and

commercial premises in and around Wincanton including Bourton, Cucklington etc.

Visit their website for further details or call in to their Wincanton High Street shop to discuss your requirements.

Auto Enrolment is here; don’t ignore it!

The government’s Auto Enrolment policy requires all employers to set up a pension scheme in to which certain of their employees must be enrolled.

You may have received a letter from The Pensions Regulator (TPA) asking you to nominate a contact for them to deal with.

Business Accounts Welcome

FREE DELIVERY & DISCOUNTS ON STATIONERY

★ Signs: A-Boards, Stickers, Banners Newspaper ★ Printing: Posters, Manuals, Brochures, Leaflets, etc.

Delivery Open: Monday – Friday 7am – 5pm, Saturday 7am – 2pm, Sunday 7am – 12noon Service

33 High Street • Wincanton

 01963 32356 • www.papertrees.co.uk

Chalmers

&CO

In and around Wincanton

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 16 THE VISITOR October 2016

If you are an employer you cannot afford to ignore this request – there are quite stringent penalties (starting at £400 and escalating) if you do fall foul of the rules. HM Revenue & Customs are already imposing these on employers who do not get it right!

What is your Staging Date?

The Staging Date is the date by which you must have: a) A pension scheme in place; b) Assessed all your employees to see if they are eligible to be included in the scheme; and c) Given all your employees details of the scheme so that they make an informed decision as to whether they wish to be in the scheme or opt out.

There is no time to lose as the likelihood is that it could take up to three months, if not longer, to set up a scheme.

Eligibility of employees

There are different categories of employee, dependent on age and level of pay. As an employer you must enrol those employees who are eligible in to the pension scheme – you have no option! It is up to the employee to advise the Pension Provider that they wish to opt out. All other employees may request to be enrolled in to the scheme – your liability to contribute differs dependent on the status of the employee.  If you have any questions regarding Auto Enrolment, or need help to set up and administer your scheme, call Steve Curtis or Simon Bachrach on 01460 279000 at Chalmers.

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

October Notice Board BABCARY

Thursday 20th October from 7.00pm The Red Lion, Babcary presents Music in the Marquee - The Pete Long and James Pearson Duo for an evening of Hot Jazz and Lively Conversation with the Musical and Artistic Directors at Ronnie Scott’s.

Tickets £17.50, see website to book. www.redlionbabcary.co.uk or call 01458 223230.

MARTOCK

15th October at 7.30pm in Martock Church, return visit of Vox in Frox, spectacular awardwinning auditioned ladies choir from Chew Magna. See www.martockonline.co.uk/events.

Tickets £8 on door, £7 from 01935 822706.

WINCANTON

Early Christmas Fair, Tuesday 18th October 10am, Wincanton Racecourse Marquee. Organised

by Somerton & Frome Conservatives and supporting Macmillan Cancer Support.

ADVERTISE YOUR NOVEMBER EVENT HERE!

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 – send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid, maximum 20 words. Extra words 30p each.

Deadline for November issue, Friday 14th October.

LOOKING TO RECRUIT NEW STAFF? Why not place an advert in

Tel: 01963 351256

Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THESE DAYS many small towns stage a festival of some sort to put themselves on the tourist map. If they’re well organised and publicised, literary festivals, arts festivals, walking festivals and suchlike can provide a significant boost to the local economy, especially if those attending are sufficiently enamoured to return to the town on further visits.

Browsing round Bruton recently I got the impression that the little town is fond of food (especially if someone else is cooking it!) and wondered whether the town council had ever thought of organising a Bruton food festival.

There certainly seems to be enough fine food grown, produced, sold, cooked and served in the area to satisfy local people and attract visitors from far and wide.

The town and its surrounding villages are certainly generously provided with places to eat, and I saw menus to suit most tastes and pockets. I might have missed some, but these are the ones that caught my eye.

A popular venue for morning coffees, light lunches and teas is Cat’s Café at the back of the Premier Store on the High Street.

A little more up-market is the Caro café and store on Quaperlake Street, described in a recent Sunday Times feature as ‘a lifestyle store’ with shelves stacked with ‘everyday household items given a designer twist’. And ardent coffee enthusiasts can enjoy distinctive blends in the coffee bar at Bean Shot on Station Road where beans are freshly roasted and ground on the premises.

The Sun Inn on the High Street offers a wide range of pizzas, burgers, kebabs and coffees, and in the evenings provides the chance to sample Persian cuisine.

The town’s other High Street pub, the Bruton Castle, is very much a young-people’s pub with a games room, but also offers pub grub from Wednesday evening to Sunday

BRUTON

Made with beans freshly roasted and ground on the premises, distinctive coffees served at Bean Shot are sure to delight people who enjoy the drink.

lunchtime. And in the villages surrounding the town all of the pubs are renowned for their food – the Bull Inn at Hardway, the Old Red Lion in North Brewham, the Three Horseshoes in Batcombe and the Montague Inn at Shepton Montague.

Five restaurants cater for those who prefer to dine away from the pub atmosphere. Truffles Brasserie, a creeper-clad cottage at the west end of the High Street, continues that lovely old French tradition of the ‘prix fixé’ lunch – an inexpensive two course meal from a short but frequently changing menu – and from time to time it stages speciality evenings such as lobster nights. I particularly liked the French ambience of the ground-floor room and the pavement seating.

Another brasserie, At the Chapel, has gained an enviable reputation for its food, providing a new use for the redundant Congregational Chapel whilst retaining the building’s architectural features.

It is especially noted for its breads and pizzas from a wood-fired oven.

Across the road, lovers of spicy food will certainly fall for the

Indian Kitchen restaurant and takeaway which is open every evening from 5.00pm. And Matt’s Kitchen, an intimate restaurant in a small High Street cottage, is open for dinner on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays only with a different set menu each day that is displayed in advance in the front window. At Durslade Farm on the edge of town on the road to Wincanton, the Roth Bar and Grill at the Hauser & Wirth gallery boasts that almost every ingredient (apart from the fish) that goes into creating its dishes is sourced from within a five-mile radius of the gallery. It’s open for lunches on Tuesday to Sunday and for suppers on Friday and Saturday evenings. The town also has a Chinese takeaway offering a long list of oriental dishes, but if your tastes are distinctly English the place to head for is nearby Pitcombe where, at Cole Manor Tea Rooms, you can enjoy coffees, home-made cakes, lunches and afternoon teas in a glorious garden if the weather is kind.

Bruton’s fondness of food extends beyond simply eating it, judging by the produce on offer in some of the shops. Bill the Butcher (inside the Spar shop) is not only an acclaimed traditional retailer of English meat but also the purveyor of locally-grown salad leaves and a range of local dairy produce. Indeed, in this part of Visitorland people are spoilt for choice when it comes to tasty cheddar, with Montgomery’s, Keen’s, Westcombe, Barber’s, Gould’s and Godminster all being made locally. Godminster Farm’s organic cheddar (in its distinctive purple wax) and other products of this Bruton-based cheese-maker are on sale at the Godminster shop next to the car park on Station Road. Bread and cakes from Taylors, a family business that has been baking locally since 1945, are available in four of the town’s shops including Church Bridge Stores and Bruton Wholefoods, a shop packed with a bewildering selection of organic foods and health products. A mile up the Frome road the Gilcombe Farm Shop has a range of local produce, much of it organic, while a mile in the opposite direction at Wyke Champflower the Wyke Farms shop offers this nationally-known company’s traditional farmhouse cheeses and butter made from local milk.

Station Road, Bruton, Somerset

Are pleased to offer Full Class 4 MOT Facilities MOTs • MOT Preparation • Welding Service and Repairs on all makes of Vehicle

TYRES • BATTERIES • EXHAUSTS Contact Proprietor

Tel / Fax: 01749 812992 Mobile: 07976 401432

THE VISITOR October 2016 17

SHEP TON MONTAGUE, SOMERSET RACING WITH SEAN IN OCTOBER Under Starters Orders ...

Friday 14th October Lunch at the Monty Taxis to and from Course, Entry to Course and Early Supper back at the Monty with glass of bubbly £50 COMBAT STRESS CHARITY DAY Sunday 23rd October Taxis to and from Course, Starting with Canapes and Bubbly at the Monty, then Join us in Montague Inn Box for refreshments including Buffet, Wine, Beer and soft drinks included in the box £130 Thursday 27th October CURRY NIGHT Selection of curries and bits & bobs, all you can eat £15 Saturday 5th November THE MONTAGUE INN FIREWORKS NIGHT The legendary Monty Fireworks Extravaganza, Adults £5, Under 14s £3 BBQ Hot dogs, Burgers etc. will be available, ignition at 6.30 Thursday 24th November NEW ORLEANS STYLE SEAFOOD AND CAJUN NIGHT Celebrate Mardi Gras Style with that Southern Flair & Fare CHRISTMAS MENUS NOW AVAILABLE

STEAK NIGHT EVERY MONDAY 8oz Steak & Fries or Burger at £ 10 per head SIMPLE SUPPER EVERY TUESDAY Delicious 2 Course Set Menu for only £ 10 per head THURSDAYS SURF & TURF 8oz French Style Onglet Steak, Garlic King Prawns, Salad & Fries, Glass of Wine £17.50 WHY NOT JOIN US FOR LUNCH?

The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 8JW Telephone: 01749 813213 • Email: info@themontagueinn.co.uk • www.themontagueinn.co.uk

18 THE VISITOR October 2016

BRUTON

Bruton is also home to a broad range of independent retailers and services and is acquiring a growing reputation for its antiques dealers and specialist shops selling an eclectic variety of Victorian prints, memorabilia, curios and gifts. And the splendid Bruton Museum is full of fascinating insights into the town’s past.

Artefacts from the former Abbey, bygone businesses, the church, the schools and the railway, together with countless photographs and parish records and the panoramic view from the back window, combine to make it well worth a visit. So a visit to Bruton provides the ideal opportunity for some leisurely window-shopping, for looking above the shop fronts to admire the architectural character of many of the buildings, and for sampling some of the tasty food

on offer, whether it be local or international. Could a Bruton food festival attract many more visitors to share these pleasures?

Roger Richards.

Bruton Business Updates

Rachel’s Hairdressing Salon is proud to announce the engagement of Gemma Poole as their new stylist.

Gemma is a talented young hairdresser with 7 years experience, taking pride in her work and adding to an established professional team, giving a personal signature service to every client.

Rachel’s has been situated in the heart of Bruton for over 30 years, providing a warm friendly atmosphere and they welcome Gemma to help take them forward into the future.

In the glorious setting of Cole Manor Tea Rooms you can enjoy coffees, home-made cakes, lunches and afternoon teas.

Rachel’s

Hairdressing Salon

Hairdressing for all the family

7 High Street, Bruton Somerset, BA10 0AB

We are pleased to introduce GEMMA our NEW HAIR STYLIST

 01749 813210

Quillon House Antiques

Leisure

Mere Literary Festival 20th Anniversary

Celebrations and celebrated authors feature in the Mere Literary Festival programme (Oct.10th – 16th) as it reaches its 20th anniversary. The first festival was held in 1997 and The Visitor’s poet, John Brookes, was the judge of the inaugural poetry competition. The three winning poems were published in November’s issue ‘for the benefit of Visitor readers’.

This year’s programme includes the well-known authors Fay Weldon, G.J.Meyer, David Childs, Alison Clink, Joan Ellis and Andrew Lownie. There is the usual film night, workshop, community events and a children’s event with author Michael Wills.

The anniversary is to be celebrated at the Sunday afternoon Award Ceremony, the final event of the week. Making a guest appearance will be Barrie

Shore, former script-writer for Eastenders, who was the star speaker at the first festival. She will be joined by a number of wellknown authors who have participated in the festival over the years including Damien Lewis, James Long, Fanny Charles and Mathew Manning.

The results of the Write-in-the Week competition will be announced and a book detailing twenty years of the Mere Literary Festival raising funds for the local Linkscheme will be launched.

Full details on www.merelitfest. co.uk and advance tickets can be booked by phoning 01747 860475.

Concert at Milborne Port

The New Scorpion Band formed in 1993. All the band members are talented musicians, playing a variety of instruments to supplement their vocal skills.

They have played at a large

The New Scorpion Band are appearing in concert at Milborne Port Village Hall on 8th October.

ANNIVERSARY

MERE LITERARY FESTIVAL 10 th – 16 th October

Celebrations & Celebrated Authors

 Award Winning Biographers & Novelists  Full details in the ... Big Green Programme and on ... www.merelitfest.co.uk • Book on 01747 860475 In aid of the charity - Mere & District Linkscheme - No:1062328

16 H IG H S TR EET , B RUTON  01749 812269

 17 th / 18 th C. Oak and

Country Furniture  Arms & Armoury  Equestrian Paintings  Valuations Undertaken  Antiques Purchased

 19 th Century Dutch Bombe Front Burr Walnut Chest

Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm

THE VISITOR October 2016 19

Leisure & Travel

number of venues in the UK and internationally and are equally at home in village halls and large concert platforms. The Milborne Port Village Hall, with its large purpose built stage, is a great performance space and so the concert at the hall on 8th October promises a fantastic evening.

Doors open at 7pm with performance at 7.30pm. Tickets available now from Milborne Port local shops as well as on line at www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/FGI HII

Combat Stress Charity Day

The 2nd Combat Stress Families and Armed Forces Race Day, will

be held at Wincanton Racecourse on Sunday 23rd October 2016, by courtesy of The Jockey Club and Wincanton Racecourse. The generous support of those who attended the first fund raising day in 2014 helped to raise just over £50,000 for Combat Stress, the Veterans’ Mental Health Charity. The charity is now supporting more than 5,900 veterans and their families, a greater number than at any time in its history. www.combat stress.org.uk Families will be able to enjoy an action packed day of top class jump racing and plenty of entertainment. Adults are

encouraged to get involved and enter the family into the fancy dress competition. The Course Enclosure will be transformed into a playground for youngsters with loads of free adventurous activities for the family to get involved in between the racing, provided by Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park.

Wincanton Racecourse has a host of food and drinks outlets with offers suitable for all the family. Advanced tickets are available from £16pp. Children aged 17 and under go free! Open 11am - 4.45pm, first race 1.40pm. www.wincantonracecourse.co.uk

OCTOBER ...

1st 2nd 4th 5th 12th 15th 16th 19th 22nd 26th 

20 THE VISITOR October 2016

JOHNNY CASH Tribute - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas MITCHELL & VINCENT (3.30pm) - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon FOLK NIGHT - Catash, North Cadbury BLUES NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne JAZZ NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne JOHN RAMON - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas AARON CLEMENTS - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon FOLK NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne BLUE DEAL - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas OPEN MIC’ NIGHT - Crown Inn, Sherborne LIVE MUSIC Last Friday of Every Month - Nuova Italia, Ilchester

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

Win Free Tickets to THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR at the NEC Birmingham which takes place from 10th - 13th November 2016.

Celebrating its 21st Christmas in 2016, The Festive Gift Fair in Birmingham is a cracking way to get into the Christmas spirit!

With 350 stalls packed with gift and decoration ideas, delicious food to try before you buy and live music to keep you entertained along the way, this event makes Christmas shopping easy! There is even a Present Creche for you to store your festive finds while you absorb the

Leisure & Travel

atmosphere. The Visitor has four pairs of tickets to give away.

Simply enter the competition below for your chance to win!

COMPETITION Q. When do the twelve days of Christmas start?

Send your answer on a postcard to:

Free Ticket Competition, The Visitor, PO Box 1, CASTLE CARY, Somerset, BA7 7BG

Or email to: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Don’t forget to include your name and address on your entry.

The first 4 correct entries pulled from the hat will win the tickets.

Closing date: Friday 14th October.

Music in the Marquee

Following the enormous success of the Summer event at The Red Lion Inn in Babcary, this popular, local Somerset pub will hold a more intimate evening on Thursday 20th October. Music in the Marquee will present a

masterclass in jazz, with conversation and an opportunity to make requests to two Jazz greats, Pete Long (saxaphone & clarinet) and James Pearson (piano). Long and Pearson are also Musical and Artistic Directors at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. To have both of these extraordinary musicians in Somerset on the same night, playing together, will be a great treat – don’t miss it.

Exciting Times Ahead for New Students joining Strode College

Over a thousand new students joined Strode College in Street last month to study A Levels and vocational qualifications. These young people can be confident that they will benefit from the highest quality teaching and support and go on to enjoy successful futures.

Strode is South Somerset, Mendip and Sedgemoor’s only Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ sixth form.

It provides outstanding teaching and support that leads to

outstanding student progress and achievements (Ofsted, October 2014). Strode is the best and most consistent sixth form in South Somerset for student progress students gain significantly higher grades than expected based on their GCSE results. They are also 12% more likely to get a university place – including top universities - than the national average this year.

Strode College provides sixth form education for 16-18 year olds with specialist teachers, support and facilities. The college delivers a wide choice of A Levels;

excellent vocational qualifications, valued by universities and employers; and Apprenticeships, where young people can earn and learn at the same time.

Pupils who are in the final years of school and thinking about what to do next can find out more about college life and courses by visiting the Strode College Open Evening, Tuesday 18 October, 6.00pm-8.30pm. To find out more and to register online visit: www.strodecollege.ac.uk , call 01458 844400 or simply turn up on the night.

Students at Strode College, Street enjoy outstanding teaching and support from staff.

“At the top of the ladder, Mr. Tibbs, balancing like an acrobat, poured the BFG’s coffee and placed the enormous plate before him. On the plate were eight eggs, twelve sausages, sixteen rashers of bacon and a heap of fried potatoes.”

Celebrating 100 years - Roald Dahl collectors edition BFG print from Quentin Blakes original artwork, £250 framed, available from Martock Gallery of Martock. Other prints also available, including Matilda.

Guess how much I love you: ‘I love you right up to the moon’ ... by Anita Jeram • Limited Edition Print

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

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

THE VISITOR October 2016 21

Antiques, Vintage & Collecting

Collecting Corkscrews

WITH THE increased popularity of screw top wine bottles, partly as a result of diminished supplies of good quality cork, and also the increasing popularity of ‘new world’ wines, the corkscrew could soon become a thing of the past.

I was reminded of this when having lunch on the farm of my 80 year old French neighbour, Gilbert Ballieul. He had farmed the same land for many generations and always uses a 19th Century corkscrew to open our wine. It was handed down to him by his grandfather, who was born in 1878.

Being in the wine business, I certainly never go anywhere without my corkscrew, just in case the odd bottle or two should come my way demanding to be quaffed ... my favourite is the

Antiques Fairs

•

Chasty Cottage Antiques

•

Saturday 8th October Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1

 Future Date Saturday 26th November   01963 370986 www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

This painting by Victorian artist Frank Richards has an estimate of £18,000 – £25,000, and is to be sold at auction on 14th October at Lawrences in Crewkerne.

twin prong cork puller, also known as the butler’s friend.

Collecting corkscrews can be a favourite pastime for wine lovers, providing interesting gift options for birthdays and Christmas.

There are even dedicated websites providing advice for corkscrewters.

In carrying out some research

r e c e n t ly I w a s int r ig ue d t o discover that there are even perfume and medicine corkscrews, highly attractive and often decorative relics from a time when these bottles were sealed with a cork.

The corkscrew’s original design is thought to have derived from the ‘gun worm’, a device used by musketmen to remove unspent charges from a musket's barrel, in a similar fashion to the way in which a cork is extracted from a bottle. Early references date from the 17th century.

The first patent for a corkscrew was granted to Reverend Samuel Henshall in 1795. The clergyman affixed a simple disk, the Henshall Button, between the worm (screw) and the shank. This prevented the worm from going too deep into the cork, forcing the cork to turn with the turning of

the crosspiece, breaking the adhesion between the cork and the neck of the bottle. The disk is designed and manufactured slightly concave on the underside, which compresses the top of the cork and helps keep it from breaking apart.

Most popular nowadays is the wing or butterfly corkscrew, which has two levers, one on either side of the worm. As the worm is twisted into the cork, the levers are raised. This, to my mind, unless you happen to get your hands on an original version, would not qualify as being a collector’s item. Not my favourite type of corkscrew, especially as the cheap supermarket ones lack the durability to deal with a stubborn cork.

There are literally 1000s of different corkscrews to collect, so many people specialise in one type, although novelty corkscrews are always popular.

A good starting point when collecting corkscrews can be to concentrate on the types of worm, which range from bladed worms, popular in Germany, through to the uncommon Auger worm.

Categorising corkscrews can be useful but causes a dilemma if you come across a type that doesn’t quite fit in.

The variety available is extensive, and condition is paramount, so buy items in good condition and remember that broken or missing parts detract from the value, as do faulty mechanisms.

Rare pieces in excellent condition can fetch thousands of pounds at auction, with online auctions very popular. One

Hazy-Maes Auctions

Auctions and House Clearance Services AUCTIONS HELD FORTNIGHTLY OVER 2 DAYS  Friday evening from 6.30pm  Saturday from 11.00am Also live bidding online: www.easyliveauction.com Viewing all day on Friday from 9.30am

OCTOBER AUCTIONS

22 THE VISITOR October 2016

Friday 7th / Saturday 8th and Friday 21st / Saturday 22nd Now at: Unit 4, Beckery Road, Glastonbury, BA6 9NX Tel: 01458 833550 • Email: office@hazymaesauctions.co.uk Visit our website: www.hazymaesauctions.co.uk

Antiques, Vintage & Collecting specimen fetched an eye-watering £40,000. This was the price paid by an anonymous buyer at auction in 2014 for a corkscrew made from part of London Bridge when it was demolished in the 1830s.

Auction houses such as Christie’s occasionally hold subject specific auctions but for real finds I still prefer local auction houses and car boot sales.

LP-V.

Valuation Event

Lockdales Auctioneers are holding an Antiques & Collectables Valuation Event on Wednesday 5th October, 10am to 2pm at The Manor Hotel, 26 Hendford, Yeovil BA20 1TG (free car parking subject to availability).

Left: Pair of Baroque style oak torcheers, pair of 19c Italian blue and white drug jars, classic scenes and a late 17c polychrome figure of Madonna and Child at Quillon House Antiques of Bruton.

See them at The Bruton Decorative Antiques Fair at Haynes International Motor Museum, 14 – 16 October.

Valuations provided on: Coins, stamps, banknotes, medals & militaria, antiques, clocks, watches, jewellery, gold, silver, pre-1900 documents/books & maps, cigarette-cards, postcards, pre-1960 sporting programmes & tickets, scientific instruments, swords, bayonets & antique firearms. No appointment is necessary.

Those attending will have the option, if they wish, to consign their goods to auction (subject to terms & conditions). Cash purchase offers are also available. Valuations will be provided free of charge, with no obligation.

Other events in Fordingbridge 4th October, and Stockbridge 6th October. Enquiries: 01473 627110, sales@lockdales.com www.lockdales.com

THE VISITOR October 2016 23

House & Home

Interiors take on rich vibrant shades for Autumn ...

Blackberry, Apple and Pumpkin hues from Myland Paints Blackberry

Painted wood bedroom furniture from the Wiltshire traditional collection available from Gillingham Suite and Bed Centre, Gillingham. Paint-finished living room furniture in a choice of colours is now also available from the same range.

Spice up interiors with sumptuous rich plum shades, try Huguenot No.49, Plum Tree No.283 or Rothschild Street No.296. Warm with immersive depth, these striking colours are unashamedly elegant. Add crisp white and silver accents to bring your scheme to life or pair with olive green, mustard yellow or copper for a more daring, evocative palette.

Accessorise with luxurious fabric such as plush velvet for a sensual soft scheme – perfect for a boudoir feel or a welcoming, cosy snug.

TURNER WINDOWS

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“I just wanted to thank you and the team for the excellent service I have experienced whilst having my doors and windows replaced.

Firstly your product is excellent the solid construction and the positive locking mechanism have really solved a soundproofing problem and as a bonus I am looking forward to reduced heating bills this winter.

Your fitters on site were brilliant, they kept the place clean and tidy and were very careful when working around existing tiles which as you know I was concerned about.

It’s a major consideration and worry to hand over your keys when you cannot be around for the fitting but I need not have had any concerns as from start to finish everything was carried out with the upmost professional manner.”

Kelv Gibbs – October 2014

24 THE VISITOR October 2016

as endorsed by Celebrity World Snooker Champion Steve Davis ... AND PERSONAL SERVICE Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to our Site Showroom in Somerton.

CALL today for a FREE no obligation quote

Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd

Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB

Call: 01458 272555 www.turnerwindows.co.uk

Apple

Crisp apple green colours such as French Green No.187, Serpentine No.192 and Primrose Hill No.201 have a delightfully fresh feel and are incredibly versatile. Soothing yet uplifting, green can be used throughout the home to bring a comfortable, calm vibe. Paired with white, light or citrus shades, it creates a more contemporary feel ideal for a kitchen, bathroom or entrance hall. Alternatively, rich dark accents and wenge lend a period touch which works wonderfully with ornate decorative accessories and bronzed gold highlights.

Pumpkin

Vibrant pumpkin yellow and orange colours such as Golden Square No.131, Lolly Pop No.275, Haymarket No.47 and Circle Line No.45 bring a gorgeous glow to interiors. Whether used in a full scheme or as an accent, these colours really pack a punch.

Layer tonally or with each other for a striking statement scheme or use more sparingly for a bright pop of colour amongst a neutral palette. Grey is the perfect foil; teamed with ochre it creates a stylish, modern scheme that’s one of this year’s hottest looks.

Golden Square No. 131 from Myland Paints. A deeply evocative colour inspired by the boutiques and bistros in the streets around Soho’s Golden Square.

Fire watch: Don’t make your rubbish a danger

Adding the wrong items to rubbish bins and black sacks could put lives at risk by starting a fire, Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) has warned.

As well as the danger of a fire in a rubbish bin threatening homes or business premises, lack of care could start a blaze in a rubbish lorry or see a landfill conflagration putting staff at risk.

Among the danger items that SWP says should never be added to the rubbish bin are:

SJH Carpets & Flooring Add style to your home with our exciting new flooring ranges!

alternative flooring ROGER OATES

H A RV E Y M A R I A

SJH CARPETS of Wincanton have been established for over 15 years and have built up a successful business supplying carpet and flooring to suit all tastes and budgets.

Since moving to larger premises some three years ago SJH have been keen to expand on their already comprehensive range and are now able to offer a choice of floor coverings, for which they have exclusivity in the area. They are able to offer the customer a bespoke look - whether design led or traditional in style.

AMONGST THE CHOICES NOW AVAILABLE ARE ...

 Roger Oates - stair runners. A truly British product - flatweave, 100% wool, in a wonderful selection of colours and patterns that are both stylish and hardwearing.

 Jacaranda - handmade rugs and carpets offering unashamed luxury using Tibetan handknotting techniques. This creates a density that will withstand many years of use. Jacaranda can produce your personal design or recreate a Jacaranda design to your colour scheme and dimensions. Being hand made each rug/carpet is individual with its own character and charm.

 Harvey Maria - offer a fabulous collection of modern, luxury and designer LVT floor coverings bringing you an inspirational range of designs and patterns, from modern vintage icon Cath Kidston to nature-inspired artist Neisha Crosland. Although design-led the floors are incredibly durable, easy to maintain, and suitable for even the toughest commercial area.  Alternative Flooring - add texture to your flooring with this extensive natural collection - choose from sisal, coir, seagrass and jute. Invite a world of monsoon-grown-grasses into your home!

Why not design your own natural rug with a choice of border?

Border fabrics include leather, linen and tweed.  Unnatural Flooring - supply a range of woven vinyl flooring that feels and looks like natural plant fibre, but with the practicality of a woven vinyl, making it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens where natural flooring is not practical.

 Wood & Engineered Wood - is proving immensely popular.

Leading manufacturers such as Woodpecker - plus Rovers Flooring, who are able to offer a hand finish in the exact colour match of your choice.

SJH Carpets also offer an extensive range of traditional carpets and vinyls including stock rolls and remnants. In addition to flooring they supply and fit Luxaflex blinds and shutters - see their in-store display area. SJH are pleased to advise on the best product for your particular requirements. They employ their own professional fitters and offer a free measure and quotation service.

If you are looking to give your home a fresh new look - visit SJH Carpets of Wincanton, or their sister shop at Tisbury.

Free Estimates ★ Free Measuring ★ Professional Fitting by our own Expert Fitters Friendly and Personal Service ★ Competitive Prices

Wincanton

Also in store MMS Soft Furnishings Curtains & Fabrics

Southgate Road, Wincanton  01963 824418

Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178 THE VISITOR October 2016 25

• Hot ash or part-burned materials from domestic or garden fires or barbecues.

• Used portable barbeques whose charcoal may not be completely cold.

• Household or vehicle batteries as these may short out or cause sparks.

• Broken glass not carefully wrapped or bagged as it could act as a magnifying lens.

House & Home

• Aerosols as they may get hot or be pierced during the collection and landfill process.

The advice is simple in each case: • Let ash and portable barbecues completely cool, or fully damp down with water.

• Recycle vehicle batteries through any one of Somerset’s 16 recycling sites.

• Take household batteries to recycling sites or high street stores that collect them.

• Carefully wrap and bag broken glass, which should also never go in recycling boxes.

• Use up aerosols completely, do not squash, and then add them to recycling boxes.

A SWP spokesperson said: ‘These are common sense precautions to avoid fires. And recyclable items – including batteries and aerosols – should never be in household rubbish.’

For more about what to recycle, where and how, visit: www.somersetewaste.gov.uk

Preparing your home for winter

Accessories can turn a house into a home, so if you are looking for something a little different as a gift, or for your home, a visit to One World in South Petherton is a must.

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

Heating your home is easier and cheaper if it is well insulated and your central heating works properly. Closing the curtains and fitting thermal linings, draughtproofing doors and windows, insulating the loft and lagging the hot-water tank and pipes can all help to make your home cosy and improve energy efficiency.

Additional tips to help you:

1. Check that your heating system is working before the winter sets in and have your boiler serviced by a registered engineer at least once a year.

2. Get to know how the timer and thermostat on your heating system work. It may be beneficial to set the timer

to switch the heating on earlier rather than turning the thermostat up to warm your house quickly.

3. If you have wood or coal burning stoves or gas heaters make sure you have adequate ventilation in your home.

4. Check your water stopcock is working properly.

Is it time to get your chimney swept?

It is important to get your home’s chimney swept at least once a year. This is required because an unswept chimney may lead to an accidental chimney fire, you may breathe in harmful fumes and smoke damage may be incurred within your property.

Regular sweeping reduces the chances of a chimney fire as the build up of soot and other obstructions such as birds nests will be minimised or eliminated.

Many insurance companies stipulate the requirement of chinmey sweeping. This is especially important in thatched buildings. Remember to install smoke alarms on every floor of your property and routinely check that they are functioning properly. A carbon monoxide detector is also a very good investment.

The National Association of Chimney Sweeps is a professional Trade Association, promoting high standards for the sweeping, inspection and maintenance of chimneys. Visit http://nacs.org.uk/ for more information or to download their Heat Your Home Safely guide.

Special offers at Sandpits

26 THE VISITOR October 2016

For more than sixty years, Rayburn has been a popular choice and a leader in their field.

Central heating systems and range cookers combined, they are flexible, controllable and energy efficient. Hand built and crafted in solid cast-iron and made with 70% recycled materials, you can be sure that you’re getting quality and durability with a Rayburn.

Available fuel types are solid fuel, oil, gas and wood and ‘A’ efficiency rated options are available. A Rayburn boiler offers high levels of efficiency to supply hot water and to heat between 2 and 20 radiators and with a hot plate, main oven and lower oven Rayburn cookers offer flexible and well thought-out cooking

House & Home

facilities. From baking to steaming, a Rayburn cooker is a flexible, easy way to get the most out of your food, locking in flavour and nutrition and cooking it evenly. The separate ovens are vented into a flue so the flavours of the dishes will not mingle when

cooking. The top of the oven can keep your coffee warm or soften ingredients such as butter. And if providing superb cooking facilities isn’t enough, Rayburn cookers are also self – cleaning and will get rid of unwanted cooking smells for you!

KITCHENS & HOUSE RENOVATIONS We project manage from start to finish!

Sale of Ex-Dis pla KITCHENS an y d APPLIANCES

Stylish kitchens to suit you

■ Contemporary or traditional ■ Wide choice of finishes including high gloss, wood and painted ■ Free planning ■ Free design service The Rayburn 480CD in Claret: cooker, central heating and domestic hot water - cast iron excellence. Your local Rayburn stockist Sandpits Heating Centre, Curry Rivel.

Plumbing & Heating Services

Does your bathroom need updating or replacing?

We offer a complete design and installation service

 Wet rooms  Bathrooms  Shower Cubicles  Tiling etc.

Competitive Prices

Be warm this winte winter!

Does your boiler need servicing or replacing?

Are your radiators working efficiently?

For all your heating requirements Give us a call ...

Friendly and professional service Contact us for a free estimate

“Supply only” kitchens also ... “fit only” service available

FITTING A KITCHEN YOURSELF ?

Struggling with the technical bits ... worktops, sink, etc?

Why not let us help?

We can also supply accessories such as taps and sinks!

Study / Home Office Furniture

Working from home?

Surfing the net?

Do it in comfort and style ... with our “Home Office Design”

CALL INTO OUR SHOWROOMS TODAY

KITCHENS & HOUSE RENOVATIONS

The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN

(01935) 823346

www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk

Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel

Tel: 01935 817111

Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com See our new website: www.sherbornekitchens.com THE VISITOR October 2016 27

House & Home

Available in 8 colours, Rayburn cookers come in a range of styles all of which look fantastic. Heat your home and feed your family simultaneously, in style! The modules on offer cater to every requirement: On some you can cook without running the central heating, some are for cooking only and for some you don’t even need a chimney! With models suitable for every property, a Rayburn is an investment your home will be proud of.

Sandpits Heating and Home Store currently has 15% off all Rayburn and AGA cookware.

Call 01458 251476 or visit www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk for more information. See their advert - inside front cover.

Hillarys launch exclusive collection by up and coming British designer Charlotte Beevor

Inspired by a visit to Kew Royal Botanical Gardens and translated into an abstract fusion of hand painted flowers, Charlotte Beevor’s exclusive collection of roman blinds, curtains and cushions for Hillarys features striking prints, co-ordinating plains and textured satins, across two colour palettes.

Backgrounds of inky indigo and deep sultry shades bring depth and mystery to bold brushstrokes of blossom pink, violet, rich berry and lilac. A fresh white backdrop is souped up by bursts of rich purple, mauve and lime. A wire

Sorana Indigo roman blinds from the Charlotte Beevor range at Hillarys.

for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, Sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221

Why travel miles?

We have the CHOICE We have the low PRICES

Check out our prices ... you will be pleasantly surprised For the very latest TV & Audio from

On-the-premises workshop

We repair TVs, Radios, Recorders, CD Players, etc. We also repair Guitar Amplifiers, Valve Audio & PA Systems

Bring your memories to life

We can transfer cinefilm, slides, photos, camcorder, and memory cards to DVD & Blu-ray!

Call in to discuss your requirements

DO CALL IN  SALES – SERVICE – REPAIR Greenhill • Sherborne • Dorset • DT9 4EW  01935 813451

“Where the customer comes first”

28 THE VISITOR October 2016

Radiance Zest roman blinds from the Charlotte Beevor range at Hillarys.

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd

Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / Metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / Moving / Disposal Above or Below Ground Tanks • 24 Hour Call-Out

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

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —

All works completed by our experienced and reliable team

Services Include but not limited to: Project Management ★ New Build Planning ★ Loft Conversions Carpentry ★ Roofing Ground Works ★ Refurbishment Renovation ★ Commercial Property Maintenance ★ Joinery

All aspects of Building & Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken

Contact us for a free estimate

(01935) 823346

www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk

0%

INTEREST FREE FINANCE AVAILABLE

APR

REPRESENTATIVE Available on all products over £200

 Subject to status – terms & conditions apply

Another reason to buy Bosch

£22

.50

PER MONTH over 12 months

Our WAQ283S1GB washing £30 deposit machine has been awarded Bosch Washing Machine a Which? Best Buy. WAB24161GB

£75

.00

PER MONTH over 12 months

£50 deposit

TV

TX58DX700B 5 Year Warranty Included

Extended Warranty available on request • FREE Local Delivery • FREE Installation • FREE Disposal of Old Appliance*

SALES – SERVICE – REPAIRS * Excluding Refrigeration

4 High Street • CASTLE CARY • BA7 7AW  01963 351110 www.abishopelectrical.co.uk • email: bishopelectrical@btconnect.com “For all your electrical appliances”

THE VISITOR October 2016 29

House & Home

grid accent adds an edgy, futuristic touch on Petala and plain fabrics with an iridescent sheen offsetting the intensity of the dark backgrounds.

Charlotte believes that textiles help bring the influences of the art world into the contemporary home and blinds and curtains are a fabulous way to introduce colour, texture and personality into a room.

“Colour can create the mood of a room and pattern helps define its style,” says Charlotte. “My designs are bold, painterly,

exuberant and full of unusual colour combinations. I’ve loved working with the team at Hillarys to see how my style could translate to window furnishings.

I wanted the collection to have a range of different styled prints, some simple and some more complex – so that they would compliment each other well.

“The colours are very versatile, as there are two rafts, one with a lighter, fresher palette and one darkly intense.

So you can stick with one style, or mix the two together by

SALE starts Friday 30th All hemline haberdashery HALF PRICE Huge amount of fabric remnants Stock cushion covers from £2 Stock cushion inners 25% OFF All stock ribbons from 10p per metre ... and lots more

September 9.30

OPEN: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, 9.30am – 3.00pm Saturday 9.30am – 12.30pm Thursday closed or by appointment

MMS Soft Furnishings, Tythings Commercial Centre (within SJH Carpets) WINCANTON, BA9 9RZ

Mobile: 07883 089333 • Email: salesmmssoftfurnishings@aol.co.uk

Homemaker of Shaftesbury has kitchens to suit all tastes! A full range of electrical appliances at sensible prices is also available.

 BEST  BEST  BEST  BEST BEST  for choice

for quality

Kitchens CONTEMPORARY - TRADITIONAL - GLOSS AND MORE

for value

for customer service

range of appliances We think we are the BEST ... so do our customers!

Thinking of a new kitchen?

Why not call in and see us and judge for yourself!

“When only the BEST will do”

YOUR ONE STOP KITCHEN SHOP We offer the complete solution, for expert advice in selecting the right product through to delivery and installation

Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8PL • 01747 851476 • myhomemaker.co.uk • Est 1994

30 THE VISITOR October 2016

House & Home

layering blinds, or blinds and curtains together and really play around with hue and pattern.”

Sarah Quilliam, head of product design for Hillarys says: “Hillarys was keen to work with a young designer who would bring something new, different and exciting to a capsule collection. As soon as we saw Charlotte’s designs we loved the confidence and vibrancy of her colour combinations and vivid brush strokes and knew they would add a stunning dimension to our soft fabrics range.

“Charlotte’s collection is on point for AW16, reflecting a trend for abstract florals and the move towards brooding darks that mix delicate pops of pale, even sugary colour. Moody florals are really versatile as they can work in all sorts of interiors – whether it’s toughening up a girlie scheme or adding drama in a more muted environment.”

“She’s worked very closely with our own in-house designer, Victoria Robinson, who created our very first exclusive collection, Country Retreat, as a raw graduate in 2013. As a business,

we are keen to support and grow young talent.”

For more information visit: hillarys.co.uk

Needful Things

Needful Things Interiors are planning an expansion! Not in space, but in the range of their fabrics, wallpapers and paints.

New suppliers are coming on board this Autumn which will enhance their appeal and broaden their offer. Little Greene paints and Sanderson paints will be joined by Paint Library as specialist paints become ever more popular. Look out also for Ian Mankin Fabrics, a beautiful range of stripes, checks and geometric designs at very reasonable prices.

All the latest Sanderson, Harlequin and Romo books are now arriving and you can expect further announcements, as the Autumn progresses, with well known Top Name Brands joining this appealing and approachable interiors store. New suppliers are responding positively to our reputation for attractive displays, friendly customer service and competitive pricing.

For your comfort & independence

 Walk-in baths/showers (low & level access)

 Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets

 Slip resistant safety flooring  Discounts for over 60s and military veterans

 Wet rooms

 Easy clean panelling/tiling  Extensive design choice  VAT exemptions (conditions apply)

 Local family run business

* This advert must be presented at time of order.

Voucher will be sent within 30 days of bathroom completion.

THE VISITOR October 2016 31

House & Home

This stylish atrium is by JC Joinery, Wincanton.

Do your wooden doors and windows need attention before winter sets in?

AP Kitchen Solutions FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN

As a general rule, you should maintain exterior woodwork every 3 – 6 years to ensure optimum performance and durability. October is the ideal month to do this. Preparation is the key to achieving a perfect result and there are some important points to note.

Use a dusting brush to remove any loose fragments or dust. The benefits of dusting off the surfaces provides better adhesion, a smoother finish and avoids any surface contamination.

Remove dirt, mould and algal growth with a fungicidal wash and / or warm soapy water.

Methylated spirits perfectly degreases wood. If the surface is oily or greasy, it removes any contamination, natural oils or

resins and therefore provides a sound surface to work on. It also evaporates quickly, allowing you to proceed with the job more quickly.

Sand down any weathered areas to a sound surface.

Thoroughly prepare your surface by rubbing gently with a nylon abrasive pad.

Always remember to apply a coat to the top and bottom edges of the door.

Ensure the under sides of window sills are fully coated.

Note: Avoid using white spirit as this introduces grease to the surface, and don’t use wire wool as the loose fragments embed themselves into the wood. If you apply paint to a surface prepared in this way, it will result in areas having black spots.

For best results use good quality brushes.

 Kitchens replaced for a fresh new look – at a reasonable price

 Complete new kitchens designed to suit you

 Replacement doors – “don’t replace it, reface it”

 Huge choice of granite and quartz worksurfaces  Full range of accessories and appliances

 Full project management & qualified local installers  We offer an expert and friendly service

 01935 849559

To discuss your personal requirements contact Adam or call at our showroom

Northover, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LD www.apkitchens.co.uk

32 THE VISITOR October 2016

Exterior woodwork should be maintained every 3 - 6 years.

SEWING MACHINE SERVICE CENTRE Repairs & Servicing To All Makes - Domestic & Industrial Collection and Delivery Available

Embroidery Engineering Services

Suppliers of Computerised Embroidery Machines

Telephone: 01963 350068 • Mobile: 07947 725315 Email: robert_churches@hotmail.com UNIT 8, TORBAY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE CASTLE CARY BA7 7DW

ham A d n y W rm e h s T Real Ales

Draught Ciders

KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK TA12 6AT

Welcome to the Wyndham Arms Christmas Menu 2016 Christmas Lunchtime Menu

STARTERS Homemade Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash Soup (GF without bread) (V) served with crusty bread Deep Fried Whitebait with tartar sauce Wild Mushroom and Chicken Liver Terrine served with warm toast and cranberry sauce

MAIN COURSES Roast Turkey served with all the trimmings Roast Topside of Somerset Beef served with homemade Yorkshire pudding Salmon Fillet served with hollandaise sauce, new potatoes and steamed broccoli Parsnip, Chestnut and Cranberry Loaf (V) served with a creamy leek and cheese sauce DESSERTS Dark Chocolate and Caramel Cheesecake served with cream Christmas Pudding served with brandy custard Mixed Berry Eton Mess served with chestnut sauce

COFFEE & MINCE PIES 1 course £9.95 │ 2 courses £12.95 │ 3 courses £16.95 │ 4 courses £19.95

Christmas Evening Menu

STARTERS Homemade Spiced Sweet Potato Soup (GF without roll) (V) served with a sour dough and onion roll Fig and Blue Cheese Salad (V) served with chestnut dressing and toasted nuts Smoked Mackerel Rillettes served on dressed cucumber with French toast Pan-fried Pigeon Breast served on mixed wild mushrooms with a redcurrant sauce MAIN COURSES Local Roast Turkey served with all the trimmings 8oz Rump Steak, cooked to your preference, served with sauté potatoes and cep mushroom sauce Slow Roasted Pork Belly served on black pudding mash with a cider sauce and root vegetable crisps Three Cheese, Pear and Rosemary Tart (V) served with roasted garlic potatoes Sea Bass Fillets, Panfried and topped with Prawns in a Garlic and Parsley Butter served with new potatoes and steamed broccoli

DESSERTS Individual Luxury Christmas Pudding served with brandy custard Millionaires Shortbread Cheesecake served with vanilla cream Winter Berry Crème Brûlée served with shortcake biscuits Somerset Cheeses served with a fig relish and cranberry and raisin toast

COFFEE & MINCE PIES 1 course £13.95 │ 2 courses £15.95 │ 3 courses £18.95 │ 4 courses £23.95 We use local Somerset & South West produce and suppliers whenever possible. We also offer Vegetarian and Gluten Free dishes marked either (V) or (GF) – the gravy used is gluten free. Please ask your server if you would like any more information or our allergen advice sheets. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

All meals need to be pre-ordered 7 days before your booking.

 We look forward to seeing you for your Christmas Celebration  Rob, Linda and all the Staff at The Wyndham Arms.

Tel: 01935 823239

Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com

With Christmas just 12 weeks away as this October issue of The Visitor is published, now is the time to start thinking about your festive celebrations.

Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or work colleagues, over the following 9 pages you’ll find plenty of venues & menus to choose from.

ROSE & PORTCULLIS Butleigh near Glastonbury Somerset, BA6 8TQ Tel: 01458 850287 roseandport@gmail.com

CHRISTMAS MENU 2016 STARTERS

Honey roasted butternut, parsnip and red pepper soup, served with chunky bread Deep fried breaded camembert on a roasted beetroot and orange salad with a balsamic reduction Wild mushrooms sautéed in garlic oil, served on toasted granary bread with a thyme & rosemary crème frâiche Warm sticky chorizo chunks on dressed rocket and chard with mini mozzarella finished with basil oil Thai style fish cake made with king prawns, salmon, cod, ginger, lime and chilli and spring onion with a lemon mayonnaise

MAINS

Home Farm roast turkey crown with a thyme and sage stuffing, R&P sugar baked ham, pigs in blankets, roast potatoes and parsnips with a cranberry sauce and a selection of vegetables Gressingham duck breast with herb roasted potatoes, fine beans and sweet orange, apricot and honey sauce English lamb shank slow cooked in stout and redcurrant with creamy mash, braised savoy cabbage and bacon finished with its own rich jus Pan roasted salmon fillets on horseradish mash with roasted beetroot purée, curly kale and a lemon crème frâiche Pork fillet filled with black pudding wrapped in smoked bacon with dauphinoise potatoes, red cabbage and a sweet cider and apple sauce Somerset goats cheese stack with layers of chopped pecans, pistachios and cashews with spinach, roast beetroot, butternut squash and topped with an orange, cinnamon and plum oil served with sweet potato fries

PUDDINGS

Homemade traditional Christmas pudding served with double cream or brandy sauce Chilled chocolate cups filled with chocolate and Grand Marnier with an orange segment sauce Coffee and kalua pecan creams with a chocolate coated Florentine Brandy snap baskets with amaretto ice cream and warm poached plums Classic lemon tart with quenelles of clotted cream and a sweet warm cranberry sauce Cheese and biscuits Coffee and mince pies to finish

Two Courses £19  Three Courses £24

This menu is for pre-booked parties and is available during December

THE VISITOR October 2016 33

N E W LY R E F U R B I S H E D Nuova Italia

st usic la onth Live M of each m y a d ri F

RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 12noon – 10.30pm Extensive A La Carte Menu see website

Take Away Service FREE DELIVERY ... within 10 mile radius for orders over £20  Christmas Bookings Now Taken  large parties welcome (up to 80 people)

 LIVE MUSIC every Friday throughout December   Open for Christmas Day Lunch 

OWN CAR PARK

18 CHURCH STREET, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LN Tel: 01935 840033 • www.nuovaitalia.co.uk

34 THE VISITOR October 2016

Crown & Victoria Mark & Isabel welcome you to the ...

Farm Street TINTINHULL Nr. YEOVIL BA22 8PZ

CHRISTMAS DAY MENU 2016 This menu is only available to parties who have pre-booked and pre-ordered £ 75 per person  £37.50 for children under 12 years old

STARTERS

Soup of roasted artichoke with truffle oil and wild mushrooms Venison and duck terrine with toasted sunflower bloomer and gooseberry chutney Pan fried hand dived scallops with black pudding and a pomegranate dressing Goat's cheese dumplings with a mint and pea puree and roasted fennel * * * * * * * Minted melon demitasse * * * * * * *

MAINS

Roast Crown & Victoria turkey with orchard stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, port and cranberry sauce, seasonal vegetables and turkey gravy Whole roasted quail with chestnut purée, rosemary roasted new potatoes, fresh vegetables and a port jus Braised feather blade steak with a mustard jus, roasted garlic mash and fresh vegetables Pan fried sea bream fillets with sautéed potatoes and olives, buttered spinach and a hollandaise sauce Roasted chestnut brie and cranberry wellington with fresh greens, rosemary roasted new potatoes and a thyme cream sauce

SWEETS

Homemade Christmas pudding with brandy custard Chocolate and pecan tart with clotted cream and a raspberry compote Festive pavlova with a spiced rum syrup A selection of local cheeses with biscuits and a spiced pear chutney * * * * * * * Coffee and mince pies * * * * * * *

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2016

This menu is only available to parties who have pre-booked and pre-ordered £ 21.95 per person for three courses  £18.95 per person for two courses

STARTERS

Spiced parsnip soup with vegetable crisps Potted smoked mackerel with horseradish remoulade and granary toast Chicken, pork, garlic and basil terrine with pumpkin chutney Pannéd wild mushroom and smoked cheddar risotto balls with carrot and cumin puree

MAINS

Roast Crown & Victoria turkey with sage and cranberry stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, gravy, port and cranberry sauce and fresh vegetables Brisket of beef with parsnip, carrots and swede, a rich gravy and garlic mash Pan fried salmon fillet with a pesto herb crust, dill cream sauce and saffron new potato cake Carrot, cashew and rice baked tian, fennel seed sauce, parmentiere potatoes and a mixed leaf salad

SWEETS

Homemade Christmas pudding served with brandy custard Chocolate fudge cake with vanilla ice cream Christmas spiced cheesecake with a raspberry sorbet A selection of Christmas cheeses with biscuits and a spiced pear chutney (£2.50 surcharge)

Christmas Fayre

A Charming Country Inn where dining out won’t break the bank

Celeriac and apple soup finished with herb croutons Grilled goats cheese with spiced plums and pesto dressing Barbary duck, pear & walnut salad, pomegranate & raspberry dressing Smoked salmon and asparagus tart

* * * * * * * * *

Traditional roast turkey served with bacon, chipolata & stuffing Baked fillet of red snapper, Mediterranean vegetables, balsamic dressing Pork, apple and cider stew, sage dumplings Seasonal vegetable strudel

* * * * * * * * *

REAL LOG FIRE • BEAUTIFUL GARDENS • REAL ALES AMPLE PARKING • ENSUITE ACCOMMODATION

Bookings Tel: 01935 823341

over Stratton SouTH PETHERTon

All served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes

Where possible our food is locally sourced and free range/ organic. It is freshly prepared and made here at the Crown & Victoria Inn. If you have any specific dietary needs please let us know.

AA Rosette Award For Culinary Excellence 2014 / 2015

RoyAL oAk

Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...

 Inn

Fax: 01935 825786 • Email: info@thecrownandvictoria.co.uk www.thecrownandvictoria.co.uk

Christmas pudding and brandy custard Strawberry and clotted cream tart, basil Chantilly cream orange and redcurrant crème brülée, shortbread biscuit Selection of cheese and biscuits

* * * * * * * * *

2 Courses – £15.95 • 3 Courses – £19.95

Thursday 1st December – Friday 23rd December

For EnQuIRIES please PHonE 01460 240906

THE VISITOR October 2016 35

WHITE HART • CASTLE CARY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION MENU 28th November – 23rd December

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY 2 Courses £16.95  3 Courses £19.95 Buffet Menus Upon Request

BOOK BY Friday 11th November TO GET 3 COURSES FOR THE PRICE OF 2 COURSES Tel: 01963 350255

Web: whitehartcastlecary.co.uk Email: whitehartcary@hotmail.co.uk

Book now for Christmas 2016 at

Leigh Common Wincanton BA9 8LD

Christmas Menu 2 Courses £17  3 Courses £20

Starters

VEGETABLE SOUP (V) Homemade soup served with croutons and warm crusty bread

CRANBERRY GLAZED MEATBALLS Delicious meatballs in a sticky cranberry and brown sugar glaze

GINGER AND GARLIC TEMPURA PRAWNS Tempura prawns served with salad and a sweet chilli dip

GARLIC MUSHROOMS (V) Breaded Garlic Mushrooms served with mixed leaf salad and garlic dip

SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD Smoked Chicken and Bacon salad with a honey and mustard dressing

SENIOR CITIZEN MENU

2 Courses £12.50  3 Courses £15.00 MENU AS SHOWN ABOVE

Mains

ROAST BEEF With home-made Yorkshire pudding and pigs in blankets ROAST TURKEY Served with cranberry & chestnut stuffing and pigs in blankets

FULL RACK OF RIBS Pork ribs with a special Jack Daniels BBQ sauce, coleslaw and chips STUFFED CHICKEN Oven baked chicken breast stuffed with stilton and wrapped with bacon, served with port & cranberry sauce GRILLED SWORDFISH STEAK Served with a creamy lemon and white wine sauce

GENOVESE PESTO PASTA Green pesto penne pasta with Parmesan shavings and garlic bread All mains served with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables

CHRISTMAS DAY 3 Course Meal £59 Children £20

Advance booking only / pre-order required Menu & pre-order form can be found on our website

36 THE VISITOR October 2016

Desserts

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS PUDDING Served with brandy sauce

TOFFEE PROFITEROLES CHEESECAKE Traditional cheesecake topped with profiteroles and indulgent toffee sauce LEMON MERINGUE PIE A slice of zingy lemon meringue pie served with fresh whipped cream BLACK FOREST GATEAUX A true favourite served with fresh whipped cream

STRAWBERRY PAVLOVA Chewy meringue, fresh cream, strawberries & topped with a mixed berry compote Followed by coffee and mints AFTER COFFEE CHEESEBOARD? Cheeseboard for two – £6

NEW YEAR’S EVE Canapés to Start  3 Course Meal

Bottle of Prosecco between 2  Cocktail at Midnight

£30 Each

Advance booking only / pre-order required Menu & pre-order form can be found on our website

Bookings  Tel: 01747 840439 www.hunterslodgeinn.com

The Stag’s

Head

yarlington nr. Wincanton • Somerset • BA9 8DG  01963 440393

Christmas Menu

Available from 1st December to 24th December.

Starters

Roasted Vine Tomato Soup drizzled with basil oil and garlic croutons. king Prawns in a garlic, lime & chilli butter, served with olive bread.

Breaded Brie served with mixed baby leaves and a port & cranberry coulis.

Evergreen Christmas Menu — FOR THE OVER 60s —

Available from 1st December to 24th December.

12noon until 2pm

Starters

Red Pepper & Vine Tomato Soup served with crusty bread.

Pate Maison served with mixed baby leaves and toast and butter.

Baked Field Mushroom filled with spring onion, tomato, garlic & chives, and topped with melted Montgomery Cheddar cheese.

Smoked Mackerel served with brown bread and butter.

Roast Breast of Turkey with almond and apricot stuffing, chipolata and bacon roll.

Main Meals

Main Meals

Chicken Princess Supreme of Chicken served in a white wine cream and mushroom sauce topped with asparagus.

8oz Sirloin Steak – cooked to your liking (please state) served with a separate honey and whole grain mustard, onion and cream sauce. Served with chips, mushroom and tomato.

Sea Bass Fillets marinated with garlic, parsley, chilli and lemon, lightly dusted in bread crumbs, served with a tomato and herb sauce.

Spinach & Mushroom Wellington filled with brie, cranberries, field mushroom and baby spinach, served with a red wine and cranberry & mushroom sauce.

Main meals served with a selection of roast and new potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Desserts

Belgian Chocolate Cheesecake served with clotted cream (gluten free).

Christmas Pudding served with custard.

Raspberry, White Chocolate & Tia Maria Brûleé served with a shortbread finger.

To Finish ... fresh brewed Coffee or Tea and a Mint Chocolate.

Two courses £19.95  Three courses £21.95 Inclusive of cracker and party box.

Breaded Brie served with mixed baby leaves and a port & cranberry sauce.

Roast Turkey with an almond and apricot stuffing and a chipolata and bacon roll.

Beef Bourguignon, tender pieces of beef in an onion, garlic, button mushrooms, button onions and red wine sauce.

Somerset Pork in a sauce of onions, mushrooms, bacon, cheese, cider and cream.

Luxury nut Roast in a cranberry, mushroom and red wine sauce.

Poached Hake in a spinach & Portuguese tomato sauce.

Served with roast potatoes, new potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Desserts

Belgian Chocolate Cheesecake served with clotted cream (gluten free).

Lemon Roulade served with clotted cream (gluten free).

Raspberry, White Chocolate & Tia Maria Brûleé served with a shortbread finger.

Christmas Pudding served with custard.

To Finish ... fresh brewed Coffee or Tea and a Mint Chocolate.

Two courses £11.95  Three courses £14.95 THE VISITOR October 2016 37

A beautiful historic village inn ...

Available from Friday 25th November – Friday 23rd December

Cream of Parsnip & Truffle Soup

RESTAURANT - HOTEL - BAR

Parsnip crisps

Smoked Duck Breast, Duck Rillettes Black Pudding crumb, Burnt apple purée

Somerset Heritage Beetroot, Goat’s Cheese & Walnut Salad Salmon Mousse, Dill Créme Fraiche Crisp breads, Pickled cucumber

******************** Traditional Roast Turkey, Chestnut, Pork & Cranberry Stuffing, Roast Potatoes

Sausage, Sprouts & bacon, Crushed swede, Maple-glazed carrots, Bread sauce

Pearl Barley, Wild Mushroom & Jerusalem Artichoke Pithivier Roasted salsify, Caramelised baby onions, Truffle emulsion

Pan-fried Halibut, Fondant Potato, Sautéed Spinach Celeriac purée, Shimeji mushrooms, Red wine reduction

Braised Venison Shank, Buttery Mash Spiced red cabbage, Braising liquor

******************** Christmas Pudding Brandy cream

Chocolate Tart

Clementine purée, Glazed segments

Sticky Toffee Pudding

Toffee sauce, Vanilla ice cream

Saffron Poached Pear

Chocolate sauce, Shortbread biscuits

******************** 3 courses - £26.00 per person 2 courses - £22.50 per person

Service charge at your discretion. £10.00 non-refundable deposit required on booking.

Pre-orders required 7 days in advance. Once ordered, full amount will be payable, regardless of any cancellations within 3 days of the party

The Red Lion Inn, Babcary, TA11 7ED Tel: 01458 223230 • info@redlionbabcary.co.uk

Christmas Menu S TA rT E r S

Jerusalem artichoke veloute, apple, giroles, sourdough

Wild bird terrine, pears, pickled carrots, walnut bread Porter cured salmon, Dorset crab, fermented fennel, lemon mayonnaise

ricotta dumplings, butter poached turnips, chanterelles, winter kale

MAinS

Wiltshire bronze turkey, with all the trimmings, sage & chestnut stuffing Cornish hake, hispi cabbage, rosti, mussel cream, sea rosemary Lamb saddle wellington, spinach, roasted root vegetables, celeriac fondants, lamb jus

Traditional Country Pub Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

Christmas Menu From Friday 25th November

Starters

Spiced Parsnip Soup Smoked Salmon Prawn Cornets with a Marie Rose Sauce Black Pudding with Caramelised Apple Marinaded Mozzarella Salad with Sun Blush Tomatoes and Olives All with Fresh Bread Rolls

Mains

Roast Turkey with all the Trimmings Sirloin Steak with Docks Steak Butter, Tomatoes and Mushrooms Game Pie with Seasonal Vegetables and Potatoes Smoked Haddock Mornay with Saute Potatoes Chargrilled Vegetables with Orzo Pasta

Puddings

Traditional Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter or Cream Chocolate Orange Créme Brulee Tropical Fruit Salad Cheese Board wth Quince Cheese Coffee

2 Courses £14.95 – 3 Courses £18.95 Bookings Only

Also throughout December

2 Course Roast Turkey Lunch with Christmas Pudding or Mince Pie

£9.50 or £17.50 per couple

Dinnington Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 0146052397 Email hilary@dinningtondocks.co.uk

38 THE VISITOR October 2016

Salt baked cauliflower, wild mushrooms, samphire, cauliflower cheese veloute, toasted hazelnuts

DESSErTS

Christmas pudding, brandy butter

Poached pear, saffron cake, mead, yoghurt sorbet Chocolate delice, beer nuts, malt ice cream, honeycomb £18.95 for two courses £22.95 for three course

Why not stay the night?

We offer superb accommodation in our individually designed rooms

Tel: 01935 850456

Email: mildmayarms@yahoo.com Conveniently situated just 600 yards from the A303 and only 6 miles from Yeovil and Sherborne

The MuDDLED MAn Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to

Lower Street, West Chinnock Tel: 01935 881235

Pre-Christmas Dinners Group Dinner Bookings 2 Courses + Coffee - £16 * 3 Courses + Coffee - £18

Game Casserole Sunday 18 th December Christmas Day Dinner

Drink on arrival, 7 Course Meal, Half Bottle of Wine - £60 10% OFF for groups of 10 or more • Children under 12 half price — Booking Essential —

Boxing Day Buffet - £15

Book early for Christmas Day & Boxing Day and RECEIVE A DISCOUNT “Our prices are frozen ... unlike our food which is fresh”

Bar – Dining – Accommodation

Christmas Menu 2016 TO START

Curried Parsnip and Apple Soup with Parsnip Crisps

Mere Smoked Trout Roulade with Pickled Cucumber Roquefort Leek and Walnut Tart

Crispy Glazed Duck Leg with a Plum Sauce

Venison Salami and Dorset Blue Vinny Salad with Pear MAINS

Traditional Roast Turkey with Trimmings

Pot-Roast of Pheasant and Partridge with Shallots and Caramelized Apple Braised Daube of Beef with Mulled Gravy

Monkfish wrapped in Parma Ham with a Leek and Saffron Sauce Italian Stuffed Aubergines with a Rocket and Pine Nut Salad PUDDINGS

Traditional Plum Pudding with Brandy Sauce

Citrus Syllabub with Homemade Cinnamon Shortbread Spiced Poached Plums with Orange Sorbet Chocolate and Coffee Mousse Cup

Mini Cheeseboard of West Country Cheese 2 courses £19.50  3 Courses £24.50 £5 deposit required per person

will appear in our

NOVEMBER ISSUE Published: Thursday 27th October Deadline: Friday 14th October

DECEMBER ISSUE Published: Thursday 24th November Deadline: Friday 11th November New Year Celebrations ...

Burns Night ...

CHRISTMAS / JANUARY ISSUE Published: Thursday 15th December Deadline: Friday 2nd December To book your advert in The Visitor

 01963 351256

Or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THE VISITOR October 2016 39

HALFWAY H O U S E H O T E L Chilthorne Domer YE OVI L Prop. Paul T. Rowsell

Pre-Christmas Party Menu 1 Course £14.95  2 Courses £19.95 3 Courses £24.95

Christmas Day Lunch

Two Sittings: 12noon & 3pm £55  Children (under 12) £14.95

Why not stay the nigh night?

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS PRoMoTIon 19 Excellent Ensuite Rooms

The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH

Christmas Party MEnu now available (minimum 6 people) 4 Courses + Tea / Coffee ... only £18.95 per person Christmas Day  4 Courses including Carvery Main Course ... only £39.95 per person

Large Beer Gardens

Spaces are limited and booking is essential Please phone or email for your menu and booking details

01963 441531 • catashinnpub@gmail.com

40 THE VISITOR October 2016

Skittle Alley

Sunday Carvery £9.95

LAkES & GARDEnS – FREE FISHInG FoR RESIDEnTS

Tel: 01935 840350 • Fax: 01935 849006 Visit our website www.halfwayhotelyeovil.com Follow us on Facebook

THIS CHRISTMAS why not join us for your festive party in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere?

We have 5 rooms available to book ... all with roaring log fires!

We have a range of Christmas Menus from only £19.50 per head, and our full Bar and Specials Menus are available as well.

Packages available with a Glass of Prosecco and Wine from £23.00

Meet with friends or colleagues and enjoy a festive feast this Christmas at The Coppleridge.

Open Christmas Day £72.50 per head: bookings only

Welcome to

Aller • Langport TA10 0RA

Delicious food served daily at this country inn ...

 Full Menu plus Daily Specials and Snacks   Traditional Sunday Lunch from £7.95  booking advised

 Function Room / Skittle Alley  available for private parties •‘in-room bar’ available

BookInGS noW TAkEn FoR CHRISTMAS DAy LunCH ~ please ring for details ~

 Excellent Accommodation  7 ensuite letting rooms

 01458 250469 E: info@oldpoundinn.com www.oldpoundinn.com

The Coppleridge Inn, Motcombe, Dorset, SP7 9HW • 01747 851980 thecoppleridgeinn@btinternet.com • www.coppleridge.com

Starters

Neeps and tatties soup with whisky marinated chestnuts, served with honey oat bread Ham hock terrine served with crunchy piccalilli and sour dough bread Roasted butternut squash topped with grilled Taleggio cheese, with lemon and sage butter Cured dill gravadlax salmon placed on mustard dill mayonnaise, served with cucumber pappardelle Smoked duck salad with spiced dark plum compote and crunchy cos lettuce

Main Courses

Roast turkey with sausage meat and cranberry stuffing, served with roast potatoes, sausage wrapped in bacon, gravy, bread sauce and fresh vegetables Guinea fowl with redcurrant jus, served with a pancetta bean bundle, dauphinoise potatoes and fresh vegetables Cod loin steak with a herb crust and tomato and Pernod flavoured sauce, served with a side salad and new potatoes Colombian espresso and herb rub rump steak sat on dauphinoise potatoes and rich Madeira sauce, served with fresh vegetables Broccoli and leek stir fry with smoked cheese, served in a Savoy cabbage parcel with red and yellow pepper sauce, new potatoes and side salad

Desserts

Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Peanut butter cheesecake with cranberry jam Chocolate truffle terrine with caramelised Grand Marnier oranges and vanilla cream Caramelised pear and salted caramel tart with clove ice cream Cheese and port - Wookey hole cave aged cheddar, Dorset Blue Vinny, Sharpham’s Devon Brie, spiced chutney and biscuits

Two Courses £19.50  Three Courses £26

The

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane, Norton Sub Hamdon Yeovil, Somerset, TA14 6SP Tel: 01935 881473

THE VISITOR October 2016 41

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

OCTOBER IS THE SEASON of mellow fruitfulness and after the last few weeks of hot weather autumn may well come as pleasant relief. To that end riding events continue through October. The Somerset Section starts their activities on the 6th with a guest speaker for their club night at Cossington. This is followed on the 8th by a Skittles Night at Brent Knoll and the following day they have their Autumn Leaves Run from the New Manor Farm Shop at Bishop Sutton. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section also have a guest speaker for their club night at East Stour on the 10th.

The Dorset Section start with a Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 5th, on the 9th they have a Winter Run starting from Bradford's Yard at Sherborne. Club night on the 12th is the Annual General Meeting, always fun. Lastly on the 29th they are back at West Stour for the Breakfast Meet. As always more details are available by ringing 01935-872528.

I have reported before that the profusion of events these days does tend to cut the numbers at all events. October is the month when many Sections, and other clubs, have their AGM's and also start planning next year's activities. So a plea to all those people involved, please look at your neighbouring Sections and clubs and wherever possible avoid clashes of dates to everyone's benefit. Better still look at your riding calendar to see if some events could be amalgamated or even dropped altogether.

Thinking of events I see no reason why organisers do not tailor specific events to the differing classes of machines. We already have several events specially run for Veteran and Vintage machines, so why not have an event suited to machines

MOTOR ING

Pat Manley with his machine at Sherborne School Courts.

of the 70's, 80's and 90's? Routes could be much longer which gives more scope to get to interesting places, similarly styled events could be done for the middle classes of machines. By doing this surely entrants would have a more satisfying day out.

Something else for the event planners to think about.

I suggested last month that we should start collecting those wonderful old club badges which used to adorn all types of vehicles.

I showed a picture of a badge depicting an old bike with the words 'Historic Collectors Club'.

Sure enough someone knew that this badge was issued in the 1950's to members of a club started in Tooting, London, by Verralls Motorcycle Dealers. This dealership later moved to Handcross, near Crawley, West Sussex. Its founder, Brian Verrall passed away some years ago but happily the business continues to this day.

In August I wrote of the Historic Vehicle Rally organised at Sherborne by the two Rotary Clubs of Sherborne. This years event went off as planned but entries and attendees were down slightly due in part to drizzly weather during

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

01935 812720

Western Ways yard Bristol Road, SHERBoRnE, Dorset DT9 4HR

42 THE VISITOR October 2016

the morning of the event. Always a super event held in the best of surroundings. Make sure this is on your 'must-do' list for next year.

All proceeds go to local charities.

Next year one of the Rotary Clubs is dropping out (after 23 years) but the good news is that the other will continue. Keep your eyes on these pages or local adverts for next years event.

This event used to be called the Sherborne Carnival Run when it started 42 years ago as part of the Sherborne Carnival Week.

Originally a VMCC event it was transferred to the Rotary Clubs and became known as the Historic Vehicle Rally. One man is unique in that he has attended all 42 of these events and therefore I feel he deserves a mention. Pat Manley from Leigh has that honour, and I would bet that he has attended every year on one of his Velocette machines. My picture this month shows Pat with his machine in the splendid surroundings of the Sherborne School Courts.

I know that it is a long way for readers to travel but on the 15th and 16th October there will be a major show held at the Stafford County Showground. At least one thousand machines will be exhibited and masses of autojumble and associated motorcycling

paraphernalia. I know of no other show to compare in southern England so think it is well worth a visit.

The Jeff Clew Memorial Run went ahead as planned on the 14th August. 50 entrants took part on a glorious sunny day. Jeff's daughter A lis o n c a m e do w n f r o m t h e Midlands to join in our day and was able to present the prizes, assisted by Matt Piper who is the Curator of the Haynes International Motor Museum. Ages of machines ranged from 1910 to 1990, quite a spectacle.

I have written recently of various old British makes returning to the showrooms and our streets. Sad to report then that one company is doing the reverse. In 1903 Swallow Engineering started making parts and later complete machines. In 1909 the name was changed to DOT and they continued to make motorcycles, mainly small engined machines, up to the 1970's. After this they continued with general engineering work. Sad then that this company will be closing at the end of September after a 103 year history. Their slogan of DOT stood for 'Devoid of Trouble', but never having owned such a machine I cannot vouch for the slogans accuracy.

Rod Hann.

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

E VERGREEN - Care for the Elderly Careline - 24 hour help at the touch of a button

Worrying about being alone, or feeling at risk could be a thing of the past for elderly or vulnerable residents, thanks to the South Somerset District Council-run Careline service.

The Careline service provides an emergency alarm pendant that can be worn at all times, which links to a control centre where Emergency Control Centre staff are on hand to answer calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Many elderly and vulnerable residents are already benefiting from the reassurance that help is at hand at the push of a button, and relatives can enjoy peace of mind.

The Careline staff are fully trained to respond to calls from those in need, with experience in handling thousands of calls a year from the elderly and frail, the disabled, the young and vulnerable, recovering hospital patients and those working or living in isolation.

They can call a doctor or an ambulance, the police or friends and family within seconds of

pushing the Careline button. They offer a free demonstration and, if you’re happy with it, staff can fit the unit for you immediately.

To find out more on how Careline can help, contact 01935 479815 or visit www.carelinesouth somerset.co.uk See advert for special offer.

Mobile Gents Barber

Mike Baker and Lance Wells are well known to many readers as they offer a barbering service at Wincanton, Milborne Port and Sparkford. Mike and Lance also offer a home visit service which is particularly useful for those who are elderly or infirm. They are also very pleased to visit residential homes in the area with their barbering services just call for details.

Castle Hill and Cedars Nursing Homes

Choosing the best care for your loved one is a huge decision. At Castle Hill House and Cedars Nursing Home we provide our residents with the highest quality

professional care. We also constantly strive to cherish individual personalities and cater for different life styles and personal wishes. Deeply rooted in the Shaftesbury community, set in the beautiful Dorset countryside, Cedars Castle Hill was founded by local people, led by GP Dr Geoffrey Tapper 30 years ago. We have close working relationships with GPs and all the support services.

Why choose us?

• Situated in Shaftesbury, we offer modern facilities with historic charm in a community environment.

• Our staff are a highly trained team of dedicated and experienced professionals .

• We provide individual personalized care, specializing in dementia and, as needs change, we offer a seamless transition from day care to assisted living to nursing care.

• We have been awarded Beacon status in the Gold Standard Framework in both homes and are recognized as a leader in the field of end-of-life-care. We have

developed a specialised day care service in the Garden Room at Castle Hill House.

• We can put you in touch with our residents’ relatives to talk about our homes.

If you would like to visit us, please call on 01747 854699 (Castle Hill) or 01747 852860 (Cedars). Email: admin@ cedarscastlehill.co.uk Web: www.cedarscastlehill.co.uk

GENTS & BOYS HAIRDRESSING ~ at ~

The Barber’s Shop WInCAnTon Memorial Hall Mondays 1.00pm – 5.30pm Thursdays 9.00am – 5.30pm Saturdays 8.00am – 12noon MILBoRnE PoRT Town Hall *Wednesdays 10.00am – 6.00pm * 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)

QUOTE this ADVERT and receive FREE SET UP Careline gives that little extra support to people who want to remain living at home independently for as long as possible while bringing peace of mind to their family and friends.

Situated in Shaftesbury, our homes have been providing the highest quality care for 30 years.

We warmly welcome residents at all levels of dependency.

If you would like to visit us, or for further information, please call on ...

We specialise in dementia care and our dedicated team provides for detailed individual needs.

Do you ...  Live alone or sometimes feel at risk?  Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents?  Worry about their safety in an emergency?  Want to help them maintain their independence?

Careline provides help at the touch of a button, which can be worn as a pendant or on a wrist strap, and dials through to our team 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

Through Careline, you can enjoy the independence of living in your own home, secure in the knowledge that emergency help or advice is available at your fingertips.

For all new installations booked before 31st October 2016 through this advertisement, we will offer FREE set up and connection! Please quote this advert when you contact us.

We offer a free demonstration and if you are happy with it, our staff can fit the unit for you immediately.

Contact us on 01935 479815 careline@southsomerset.gov.uk www.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk Initial connection / setup fee £32.85* Hire and monitoring £3.82 per week *waived if on certain benefits

THE VISITOR October 2016 43

44 THE VISITOR October 2016

E VERGREEN - Care for the Elderly Somerset Care

Somerset Care is an awardwinning, not-for-profit company with 25 years’ experience of supporting people to live independently.

Within our care homes, we provide a welcoming ‘home from home’ environment, whether you’re looking for day care, shortterm respite care or a long-term move to a home.

Our Community Services teams support people living in their own homes, providing a range of services to help increase our customers’ independence.

This support could be for a short period of time to enable someone to recover their independence following an injury, or it could be on a long-term basis.

Under the name ‘Realise’, we also support adults with learning disabilities, offering support with hobbies, employment and education as well as personal care.

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Regency Care & Mobility of Crewkerne always has a good choice of scooters in stock.

Conveniently situated in Falkland Square they are within easy reach of the car park.

If you are unable to visit them they can arrange a home visit.

One Stop Mobility SCOOTERS

CHAIRS

 Extensive range of new and used scooters

 Rise & recline chairs  Wide choice of fabrics

 On the premises workshops and part exchange

BEDS

AND MORE

 Cosyfeet footwear

 Rise & recline beds  Adjustable to suit your needs

 Living aids Call in and see us!

NEXT TO COSTA COFFEE AND WITHIN EASY REACH OF MAIN CAR PARK

 Walking sticks

10 Falkland Square, Crewkerne, TA18 7JS  01460 271172 www.regencycareandmobility.co.uk “If you can’t come to us we will come to you”

THE VISITOR October 2016 45

REGAL SoLuTIonS SW LTD South Petherton BATHRooMS & SHoWERS Disabled Walk-In Showers Ramps for the Disabled

Electrical Work undertaken ◆ General Carpentry

✽ Expertly Made ✽ Expertly Fitted ✽ Fairly Priced ✽ Elegant Design ✽ All Work Guaranteed

MEMBER

Registered Wet Room Installer

Electrical

Tel: 01460 241753 Mobile: 07843 339338 01460 929151 07702 888895

46 THE VISITOR October 2016

E VERGREEN Regal Solutions

Regal Solutions are bathroom designers and installers specialising in walk-in showers for disabled in South Somerset and the surrounding areas.

They know how difficult it can make your life if you are unable to get in and out of the bath and they are pleased to help make your life easier. Having a walk-in shower room can increase the quality of your life, creating independence in the home to make everyday tasks easier for you. They also fit standard bathrooms and undertake any plumbing or carpentry jobs.

Regal Solutions is an established company and have over 20 years experience in wet room and bathroom installations.

From Quote to Finish you will find a fast and friendly service that others can't match. They also offer other services designed to make your life easier, these include but are not limited to: Building Alterations; Widening of Doors; Wheelchair Ramps; Handrails. Please contact them for a free quote.

Co-op Funeral Planning

Peace of mind for you and your family with a pre-paid, inflation proof funeral plan.

Thinking about your own funeral is never an easy thing to do, but by planning ahead you can spare the people you love difficult decisions at a painful time.

With average funeral costs soaring well above the rate of inflation, it makes strong financial sense to consider a prepaid funeral plan. The cost is guaranteed at today’s prices and inflation proof, protecting you and your loved ones from rising costs.

The experienced team at The Co-operative Funeralcare will guide you through the different options and provide a free, no obligation quotation to review in your own time.

To find out more, visit your local Co-operative Funeralcare home in Gillingham or Shaftesbury.

Deadline for November Issue FRIDAY 14th OCTOBER Call: 01963 351256

E VERGREEN - Care for the Elderly The Drive Sport Rider, 4mph pavement and 8mph max. road speed setting.

Weight capacity 29 stone, 31 mile range just one of the many scooters available from Mendip Mobility of Street.

South Cary House

Situated in the pretty market town of Castle Cary, South Cary House is a Grade 11 listed Georgian property set in its own grounds of approximately one acre.

This comfortable care home offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for its residents, with a strong emphasis placed on the

preservation of dignity, privacy and respect for each individual's choice of lifestyle.

South Cary House is within walking distance of the town and there is also a convenient regular bus service to Yeovil and Shepton Mallet. Should you wish to travel further afield trains go to London and Plymouth from Castle Cary railway station.

Get out and about

Mendip with

“Great gear to be getting on with”

Mobility

We have a comprehensive range of ...  Rise and Recline Chairs & Beds

 Scooters & Wheelchairs for Sale & Hire  Everyday Living Aids  Bath Lifts Call in to our showrooms where our knowledgeable & helpful staff will be pleased to advise!

146 High Street, STREET, BA16 0ER  01458 448355 20 Westway, FROME, BA11 1BS  01373 464373 www.mendipmobility.co.uk

THE VISITOR October 2016 47

E VERGREEN Suttons Stairlifts

As we get older, climbing stairs, walking, and getting up from an armchair can become more difficult. Along with stairlifts, Suttons also offer a range of mobility scooters and rise and recline chairs to make life easier for you.

You can choose from a single motor or a dual motor recliner.

All of their recliners have the full lift and rise facility as well as the recline option.

To find out more visit Suttons

48 THE VISITOR October 2016

Stairlifts on the Anglo Trading Estate, Shepton Mallet.

ILMINSTER

Bluebird Care

At Bluebird Care we understand that it is the little things that make the difference. We are absolutely committed to delivering the services you want, how you want them, in the comfort of your own home. So what makes our homecare services different? Simply, that we put you first. Our aim is to provide the standard of care that we would want for our own families. This means valuing the unique qualities of each customer and seeing the whole person, not just a list of care needs. Our services are flexible and respond to your changing needs. We work together with families to keep our customers in control of their own care as far as they are able. We listen carefully to what you tell us about how you want to receive your care and support.

Pictured (LtoR) Harriet, Sam, Zena and Claire Hebron of Hebron Hairdressers, front, charity fund raiser Linda Piggott-Vijeh.

Collecting for Charity

In the last few months Hebron Hairdressers in Ilminster has been having something of an uplifting experience, literally!

During her term of office as president of the Rotary Club of Ilminster, long standing customer and charity fund raiser, Linda Piggott-Vijeh discovered that the charity Against Breast Cancer collected unwanted bars to support cancer research and at the same time help small businesses in Africa, and asked the salon if they would be willing to be a collection point.

Said Linda, 'Having had breast cancer myself I know that many women find that the bras they once treasured no longer fit after surgery. It seemed sensible for the salon, visited frequently by many local ladies, to provide a focal point in the town for collecting the bras, and I knew that Claire and her team are always willing to join in.'

Owner Claire Hebron added, 'Little did we realise what we had taken on. So many bras were donated that they were taking over the salon. In a short period of time we received almost 300, many of them new and unused. I am thrilled that we were able to help to make a difference.'

Against Breast Cancer uses the bras to help raise vital funds towards dedicated research to

improve detection and increase survival after breast cancer diagnosis. The bras also support small businesses in Africa.

Recycling through a textile recovery project prevents the bras going into landfill and gives them a new lease of life in developing countries where bras remain too expensive to produce locally. For every tonne of bras collected, Against Breast Cancer receives ÂŁ700 to fund research. With over 30 million women in the UK you could really help make a difference!

Successful ventures like this keep many families in developing countries out of poverty whilst providing employment for people at home in the UK.

Ilminster Home Hardware

Do you have a problem with mice? Mice can pose a health hazard and cause property damage.

Contrary to popular belief mice are not just a wintertime problem. House Mice are active all year round, though it is true that as food becomes less plentiful as the colder months set in, you may find them seeking sustenance and shelter indoors.

As well as House Mice there are two other species, the Field Mouse, and the Yellow Necked Field Mouse, which has a peculiar taste for electrical wiring, posing

ILMINSTER ~ business focus

a potentially serious fire risk!

If you think you have mice there are three ways of dealing with them. The traditional wooden mousetrap; clean kill traps - housings laced with fastacting poison; or a live capture trap.

It is important to consider the practicality and safety issues before deciding on the product that suits you best, so for friendly, helpful advice and to find a solution that’s right for you, visit Ilminster Home Hardware.

The Green House Interiors

Since opening in October 2014 The Green House Interiors has grown through the passion of their creativity. They stock recycled lighting, furnishings, gifts, jewellery, gloves, candlesticks, clothes and much more made by local artisans. They work to the client’s specifications making bespoke furniture, designed to their interior décor and unique home. They will use suitcases, doors, pallets, scaffold boards, old tables, chairs, any items that are discarded by others or they use discarded furniture and upcycle them.

Art is their passion, working with the environment in mind at all times. They provide a bespoke commission service and source the required item locally and upcycle it in a way that fits in with the client’s budget and personal taste, including colour matching with their own handmade chalk paint and wax to their requirements. They use tradional skills with the recycled materials and offer a wide range

of quality furniture. Gone are the days of shabby chic creams and greys, they add a bit of fun and vibrance to everyday things.

Since relocating to the centre of Ilminster they have added a gluten free café and have many local creative upcyclers items for sale in the shop.

Sanderson, Harlequin and Colefax & Fowler. Co-ordinating paints and fabrics too are available plus furniture and floor coverings can be sourced for those requiring a full interior design service.

So if you are looking for new soft furnishing for the autumn look no further. Why not take a virtual tour of the shop interior via google.

From concept to completion – A touch of Elegance.

A Touch of Elegance

Whether you are looking for loose covers for your favourite arm chair, new curtains or a complete interior design service – visit A Touch of Elegance, Ilminster.

Proprietor Sue Woodbury has over 20 years’ experience and will be pleased to offer her services.

The shop has an extensive fabric library with hundreds of fabrics to choose from – including leading makes such as Zoffany,

Ilminster Home Hardware.

Avoiding the patter of tiny feet in your home We can help solve your mouse-related problem with a solution that’s right for you ... so why not squeak (sorry, speak) to us about it now?

Rat & Mouse Killer 5 Packs

Mouse Traps x 2

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Rodine Mouse & Rat Killer 3 Sachets and Bait Trays

Advanced Pest Repeller Drives pests from the home

Live Capture Mouse Traps 5 Packs

12a Silver Street ILMINSTER TA19 0DJ Tel: 01460 52506

THE VISITOR October 2016 49

YEOVIL – business focus

Yeovil, Sherborne & District Samaritans Director Jill Goddard celebrates great volunteers

The local branch of Samaritans covering the Yeovil and Sherborne district has been running for over 40 years and is

Harts Mobility of Yeovil have a comprehensive range of scooters to suit all requirements, plus a range of mobility aids and rise and recline chairs.

Free parking outside the door.

HartMobility Yeovil Disability & Mobility Products

We offer the best service and the lowest prices in the

South West

★ New Scooter £595

★ Road Legal Scooter £1,495 ★ Reclining Chairs from £595 ★ NEXT DAY DELIVERY ● ● ● ● ● ●

Daily Living Aids Bath Lifts Walking Aids Wheelchairs Power Chairs Stair Lifts

01935 421111

E FRE NCE A R l INSU d lega oa for r sers u

Pre-owned mobility scooters and wheelchairs also available

1 Camborne Grove (Lyde Road) YEOVIL BA21 5DG www.hartmobility.co.uk

Scooter Servicing from £35 • FREE parking • FREE battery testing

50 THE VISITOR October 2016

thriving, with 115 volunteers from all walks of life. The branch is totally run by volunteers, including all the management team.

On September 19th a branch meeting was held during which 12 long-serving volunteers were presented with Long Service Certificates by the new Regional Director. In addition, special awards have been given out this year to all volunteers who have 24 or more years of service – these are the Claire Squires awards, in memory of the daughter of a Samaritan who died suddenly after raising a lot of money for Samaritans.

As well as volunteering in the branch they have a team in Yeovil Hospital A&E on Monday evenings, train and support prisoners at Guys Marsh HMP to support their fellow inmates in total confidentiality and give talks to schools, colleges and lots of other organisations locally.

On October 23rd an open event is being held in Sherborne’s Digby Hall - join them for refreshments, gift stalls, and a chance to sing along with a local community choir.

Things change and from its early beginnings in one room in London to its current 201 branches throughout the UK and Eire, ways of reaching the Samaritans has moved on. From telephone and face to face, they are now also reachable via email and SMS. In a single week across the country approximately 15,000

individuals will contact them one way or another.

Each Samaritans branch has to raise all its own running costs, (they receive no government or NHS funding), and they need about £38,000 a year to keep going. Donations of any size are welcome: Please visit their ‘just giving’ page at www. justgiving.com/yeovilsamaritans If you are interested in joining the team, or if you need their support, call them free on 0116 123 or visit 25 The Park, Yeovil.

Ceres

Ceres Natural Foods Ltd is a natural foods store based in Yeovil and has been trading since 1977. We are lacto-vegetarians and so do not sell meat or fish products but are happy to supply foods from vegan through to those containing eggs, honey and dairy products. Our food ranges include organic, fairtrade, gluten free, wheat free, dairy free, sugar free, ethnic, local produce and special dietary needs. Non-food ranges include supplements, herbals, homeopathics, aromatherapy, magnatherapy, flower remedies, ecological cleaning products, homebrew, books (self help, brewing, natural medicine, diet, cookery) and more.

Keep up-to-date with nutritional breakthroughs, recipes and more by following us on facebook or twitter. Feel free to email us with any questions you may have – our expert, friendly team are on hand to help.

AWARD WINNING NATURAL 9 – 11 Princes Street, YEOVIL, BA20 1EN PRODUCTS Tel: 01935 428791 STORE www.healthfoodsuk.com

YEOVIL – business focus

South West Coaches Coach Tours, Excursions & Private Hire

Based in the heart of Somerset with depots in Wincanton, Yeovil and Portland, South West Coaches offer a flexible and tailor made service whatever your travel requirements. With over 75 years of experience organising coach travel, and a fleet in excess of 70 vehicles, they can offer you an unrivalled service. South West Coaches is a privately owned family run company, with high quality vehicles and exceptional value for money. There are a host of excursions to choose from with a wide choice of local pick-up points. Whether you decide to take in a London show or choose to enjoy the breathtaking scenery through the Wye Valley, or even a gentle day roaming through quaint little villages, there is something to suit all tastes. A range of coach tours are available both in the UK and abroad.

For full details please visit the website www.southwest coaches.co.uk

The Mad Hatter Joke and Fancy Dress Shop

From the moment you enter the House of Horror at The Mad Hatter you will find spine tingling props to make your Halloween unforgettable.

There is a new range of anamatronic figures including a full sized skeleton dog, a 9ft ghould with flapping wings and even a life-size Howling Werewolf!

Hollywood quality make-up and transfers ensure life-like scars and slashed throat effects!

If you are holding a party check out the blood stained table cloths and brain jelly moulds.

For trick and treating there is a wonderful selection of high quality fire retardant costumes such as ghosts, witches and the grim reaper for the kiddies and props of spiders, rats and severed fingers. There are plenty of bargains to be had for Early birds.

Call in to The Mad Hatter or visit their website. Also available is their new website: www. halloweenhorrorprops.com

Martin & Co

Martin & Co in Yeovil was voted in 2015 the best Letting Agent in the South West region of the biggest estate & letting agent awards in the UK, known throughout the industry as THE ESTAS. Martin & Co has been recognised for its outstanding customer service to its clients

by the largest and longest running award scheme in the UK residential property industry.

THE ESTAS determines the best estate and letting agents in the country through research carried out amongst customers who are asked a series of questions about the service they have received from their agent.

visit ...

The Haunted House of Horror From the moment you step into the hall the horror begins     

Spine Chilling Ghouls, Horror Props and Costumes to make Halloween perfectly awful!

Dare you look in The Dungeon?

Be afraid, be very afraid!

MAD HATTER The

JOKE & FANCY DRESS SHOP 42 Princes Street YEOVIL  01935 471545

www.madhattersjokeshop.com

Professional Display Fireworks sold all year round

THE VISITOR October 2016 51

YEOVIL – business focus

SJ Home Services

SJ Home Services is a Yeovilbased cleaning company.

SJ Home Services is a Yeovil-based cleaning company offering thorough and reliable assistance to help keep your home beautiful!

For further information please contact SARAH on

07446 055989 with no obligation

Established 4 years ago they have many local, long-term clients and have a varied customer base from young professionals and families to older people. Domestic and commercial work is undertaken and they use natural products when cleaning.

SJ Home Services are happy to help with any task within the home and can accommodate regular weekly / fortnightly or one-off cleans.

For further information, please contact Sarah on 07446 055989 with no obligation.

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Dog tired of high prices?

CROSSROADS PET SUPPLIES VISIT

SUPPLIERS OF

• Pet Foods • Bird & Pigeon Seeds • Full range of Toys, Hutches, Accessories

... all at competitive prices Ample FREE PARKING outside the Door Find us at Forward Garage on the main A30 between Sherborne & Yeovil

Tel: 01935 411859 .

Flowers say so much!

 “Thank You”  “Well Done”  “Congratulations”...

BOUQUETS • ARRANGEMENTS • PLANTS

Andrea’s of Yeovil

As an extra treat why not add a Box of Chocolates or a Teddy?

78 Middle Street YEOVIL • BA20 1LT  01935 706526

Flowers make a wonderful gift - Sunday 2nd October is Grandparents Day. Whatever the occasion Andrea’s Florists of Yeovil - your local Interflora agent.

Crossroads Pet Supplies

With the colder weather approaching don’t forget to feed the birds! At Crossroads Pet Supplies they have a good choice of feeders and bird tables plus a

wide range of seeds and peanuts.

For the family pet there are plenty of toys, beds and treats plus a wide variety of tinned and dried pet food to suit all diets.

For those creatures that are not popular – such as fleas and ticks – Crossroads supply deterrents such as flea collars and drops.

Whether your pet is two legged, four legged, furry or finned visit Crossroads for all your needs.

Free parking outside the door.

Red Berry Recruitment Ltd

52 THE VISITOR October 2016

Finding staff or finding a new job can be stressful, so at Red Berry Recruitment they aim to make it as painless and as easy as possible. Whether you are looking for part time work, a temporary stop gap or your next career change, Red Berry Recruitment is there to help, with hints and tips on the website. From CV writing to interview techniques they aim to offer that little bit more.

For businesses looking for new staff, whether temporary or

YEOVIL – business focus situated opposite 'Wickes' on Brympton Way. Keepsake Boxes - Living Hinged Bottle Gift Boxes Jewellery Boxes - Wall Plaques Clocks - Mirrors - Custom Made Trophies & Medals - Wooden Names - House & Office Signs and so much more!

SES

Walter Wall Carpets and Rugs are located in Princes Street, Yeovil.

A well-established independent business, they offer a comprehensive range of flooring and a wonderful choice of rugs.

permanent, they can help source, screen and select the top candidates to save you time. They will advertise, pre-screen and even help you write the job descriptions if necessary. Their aim is to help you get the right person first time and no charge until they do!

So if you are looking for a job or looking for staff Red Berry Recruitment can help! Email info@redberryrecruitment.co.uk, visit your local office or call them on one of the numbers shown in the advert. They are there to help.

And if you want to hear more about job opportunities then follow them on Twitter and Facebook too!

NM Graphics

Looking for a unique personalised gift for any occasion?

NM Graphics have a good range of products, just waiting for you to tell us what you would like laser engraved onto them.

Not just run of the mill standard fonts, and even photographs!

We are skilled graphic artists, and extremely fussy, so you can rest assured it will look good!

We have a shop in Yeovil (with parking) and conveniently

Security and Electrical Services is a family run company with the owners working alongside their staff to ensure an efficient and well co-ordinated team.

Established since 1984, they are pleased to be able to say that most of the business has been built up as a direct result of personal recommendations. Most alarm engineers are also fully qualified electricians with many years of experience, who work to a high standard of neatness and efficiency. They have been NSI Gold - National Security Inspectorate (NACOSS) approved alarm installers since 1988, and achieved ISO 9000 (BS 5750) in 1993.

Burglar Alarms, Security Lighting and Lock quotations are

70 YEARS

Ward & Sibley Family Jewellers of Yeovil. In addition to diamonds Ward & Sibley stock a wide range of coloured gemstones - do call in and see their range. Free customer parking at the rear of the shop.

WARD & SIBLEY

70

Whatever the occasion ... individual pieces of jewellery and exquisite gifts to suit all tastes & budgets

YEARS

CAR PARK AT REAR

THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065  100s of rugs in stock

 Extensive range of quality carpets  Natural flooring specialists

... do call in!

34 Princes Street, Yeovil. Tel: 01935 478100

THE VISITOR October 2016 53

YEOVIL – business focus

issued free of charge following a visit by their surveyor to your premises. Each system is designed around individual needs and requirements - not offered as a pre-packaged deal. SES only use equipment which they have thoroughly tried and tested and are completely satisfied with its performance and quality.

Appleby and Childs

Appleby and Childs, independent mason, has been serving the area in and around Yeovil for over 130 years. They are an independent family run business offering the

● ● ● ● ● ●

best in service, choice and quality.

They specialise in bespoke memorials, and also offer a cleaning and renovation service. A free brochure is available on request.

‘Let our Family look after yours’.

Yeovil Auto Tuning

Yeovil Auto Tuning is a family run business, established for 34 years. Proprietor Colin Frost runs the business with his wife Anita and their three experienced mechanics Jamie, Ross and Matthew.

Yeovil Auto Tuning is located on the Pen Mill Trading Estate where there is ample parking.

Also operating from the same premises is Eclipse Custom Campers, converting VW Transporter T4 and T5 vehicles.

Yeovil Auto Tuning are now pleased to offer repairs to classic cars to their full range of services.

These include repairs, servicing, engine tuning and MOT testing incorporating class 1V, and Class V11 light Vans. A collection and delivery service is available.

Yeovil Auto Tuning  

CLASSIC CAR REPAIRS Established Repairs and Servicing Specialists OVER MOT Testing – Classes IV, V and VII also Motorhomes 30 YEARS Engine Tuning ● Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes Competitive Rates ● Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW and Audi Group)

 COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE 

9 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

Jack Stanley Project Manager (pictured right) joins his father Jon at J2 Tiles of Yeovil. J2 Tiles opened their showrooms on the Lynx Trading Estate a year ago, supplying and installing tiles for both the commercial and domestic market. They recently opened a first floor bathroom showroom on site.

VISIT OUR EXTENSIVE TILE SHOWROOMS

 Quality Floor & Wall Tiles NOW STOCKING Kerakoll Grouts & Adhesives Grespania Tiles

Waxman Tiles & Mosaic Collection

 Distributors of Porcelanosa and other leading brands  Professional fitting service

 Free Measuring & Estimate  Design Advice

 Supply & Fit or Supply Only  Full Range of Sanitary Ware, Basins, Baths, etc.

CALL IN TODAY

PUBLIC & TRADE WELCOME

Open: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm Saturday Free parking outside the shop

J2 Tiles, Unit 16, Venture 20 (Opposite Wickes)

Lynx West Trading Estate YEOVIL, BA20 2HP

54 THE VISITOR October 2016

 01935 472088 · www.j2tiles.co.uk

The

Pub Pages

BE ER & SK ITTLES P. A. BAXTER

WHAT A FABULOUS summer that was! Temperatures in the nineties for day after day, and with beer at 25p for a pint and the ability to fill your petrol tank for a fiver it really made our regular visits to the seaside so much more enjoyable.

Sadly of course, I was referring to 1976. Yes, all of forty years ago, and with the weather patterns today we never seem to be sure of what we can do with any degree of certainty. Planned out-door games were rather few and far between this year plus

our summer skittles didn't produce the results we had hoped for. Nevertheless we had some enjoyable games and it was the more relaxed atmosphere of the summer league that enhanced our pleasure. So to the winter games, which has not started too well I have to admit. Ho-hum.

About six months ago I gave a very brief mention to the fact that a pub within the Visitor area has a Dutch shuffle-board as part of their compendium of games. Correctly known as Sjoelbak this is a fun and skilful game with plenty of noise and banter. One can check this out at the Rose and Portcullis at Butleigh, with further games in the public bar area being a 'rings' board, along with a dart board more of which anon. The public bar is very Rugby orientated, and is a regular haunt for the aficionados of the game. Deservedly a CAMRA Good Beer Guide regular, and with friendly locals, a changing and interesting range of beers, a large dining/restaurant area and a friendly landlord Simon, I would say without fear of contradiction that this is a pub worth your time and money.

The setting is in a particularly rural part of Somerset, and on the evening of our visit it was

nothing short of idyllic. Being already replete we were not looking to eat on this occasion, although the food being served looked and smelled delicious.

Did I mention that there was a skittle alley? No; but Simon was delighted to show me the large alley (a separate building) and explained what a difficult alley

it was to play. Keen to show my incredible skills, I immediately got a spare, although declining to play the third ball, the point having been made, or perhaps rather 'quiting whilst ahead!'

The GBG describes the rings board as 'Irish' which gives your scribe another tack to take in my never-ending quest to

PUB PEOPLE

Simon, landlord of the Rose & Portcullis, Butleigh pictured with his rare London ‘fives’ dart board.

THE VISITOR October 2016 55

They Say

That congratulations go to Mr & Mrs Trulock of Chiselborough on the 26th October, their Silver Wedding Anniversary.

That at the Mad Hatter in Yeovil there is a wide range of horrors to be seen – including the occasional flid.

That boxes of decaying crabs occasionally left on the quayside at West Bay are due to low market prices – allegedly.

That Pete ‘The Big Feet’ Butler has been seen around Martock wearing just one blue slipper – and now his friends are pretending not to know him.

Take the money Pete offered – you know it makes sense!

That the third anniversary of the Yeovil Montacute Park Run was a day to remember – the sun was out, an Olympic hero started the runners off, a world record superhero smashed the course record and there was a record turn out ... all this and free biscuits afterwards!

That gruesome instruments of torture were on display recently at Langport Library, along with its usual selection of books.

That when John Penny of Bradford Abbas carefully restores old telephones, his wife Lynne likes to test them.

However, the 'bounce' test has so far proved unsatisfactory.

That a career path has possibly been mapped out for Miss Millie ‘bookworm’ Feakins who has recently been appointed Librarian of Stalham Academy.

That Postman Steve Marsh of Wincanton has donated 75 armfuls of blood - well done.

That Stella and Harold Barrett of Wincanton are celebrating their Sapphire Wedding anniversary on the 20th October.

That Lin Penn of Shepton Mallet is hoping husband Rob will get plenty of chocolate for his big birthday - but not too many cameras!

That Paul ‘Not a lot up top’ Sherrell of Castle Cary has just realised that there is no upstairs in a bungalow, and now he’s unsure whether there's even a downstairs.

That, sadly, The County Stores in Taunton (once called ‘the Harrods of the West Country’) may close in January after serving the community for over 160 years.

That the ingredients for a successful fund-raising evening in Yarlington Village Hall are: five dust sheets, fairy lights, canapés and Cava.

56 THE VISITOR October 2016

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

“ Tell me where you learned the magic The spell you used the day you made me fall Baby, now I know that love is no illusion I'm upside-down but ten feet tall”

FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink!

Last month no one realised it was Leonard Cohen and “Waiting for the Miracle”. Incidentally Leonard celebrates his 82nd birthday this month.

We have had another busy month here at the top of the hill.

During the month Steve and Zoe became Mr. & Mrs. Staite. They had a smashing day with all their friends and family and we wish them all the best for the future.

Well done you two!

We a l s o h a d a c o u p l e o f notable birthday parties this month. Steve Attwell celebrated his 71st birthday in style by booking the fabulous Sarah Jory to come and play some absolutely first class steel / pedal guitar.

I have never heard anyone play like it. Congratulations Steve!

Someone else who celebrated a birthday this month was Debbie Farrant. We had a super party.

The family came in and decked the place out superbly. Some nice people, some nice music, a little bit of nice food ... and a few beers ... made for a fantastic evening.

Well done Deb X!!!

Next month on the 7th the RSPCA are running a fund raiser and the wonderful Mr. Barry Paull (Elvis) will be along to entertain you. Tickets are £6 and are available from the pub. On the 14th the Stand Alone Empire will be live in the bar from 9pm.

On the 21st Pop Up Jazz will be entertaining us: a fantastic female vocalist supported by two very able players – not to be missed! And on the 28th Bad Edukation will be live in the bar from 9pm Tha – tha – tha – tha – that’s all folks! See you next month.  TOOT TOOT!!!

BOOkINGS

 01935 424721

The

Pub Pages

investigate pub games, as I have yet to find a connection for this game to the Emerald Isle. In fact, the only place I recall finding this pastime in any number (and played as league) is in a much smaller island - the Isle of Wight. Why it should proliferate there is anyone's guess, but I am sure many of you out there in games-land would have played a similar game as a child, wildly hurtling the sealing rings from your mother's Kilner jars at a board hung on the wall, suitably decorated with a clowns face complete with numbered hooks.

Been there, done that! (Not a game for those children with coulrophobia* perhaps). Of great interest to darts players is the London 'fives' board. It is certainly one I had not seen

The

before, and indeed one I had only read about in the excellent range of books by Arthur Taylor. The board is a rarity in London and the home counties now, most establishments utilising the standard board being seen in c o mpe titio n , s o t o se e i t i n Somerset, now that really is a rarity. Do pay a visit. The GBG states that the pub is difficult to find. We beg to differ; but just in case, pop BA6 8TQ into your satnav.

We finished our pints and prepared to depart. Sadly I omitted to make a note of the beers consumed, although I do recall they were from local brewers. No matter, to misquote a famous statement; 'I'll be back' which we surely will be.

The Baxter crew headed to another establishment that has been outside our radar for some time. The Fox and Hounds at Charlton Adam, where we arrived a little later than hoped, is separated from the car park by a tidy lawned garden with a pseudo wooden pirate ship, which undoubtedly would provide much fun for the younger, and young at heart members of society. An unusual but pleasing layout, the Fox and Hounds is managed by a gentleman named Mike, known

Wyndham Arms

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Vinny visited the Catash Inn at North Cadbury and was able to sample several local ciders in the garden

to a member of our party. That started us off well, and a great amount of banter followed between them, whilst yours truly crept off to examine the skittle alley. The alley also doubles as a function room, and it even has a small stage. Keen to show off my skittling skills (again) to the helpful and friendly staff member, I made a complete monkey of myself and retired back to the bar to enjoy another from the range of three Butcombe Beers held on the engines. 'Butcombe Bitter', 'Butcombe Gold' and another new to us, 'Adam Hensons Rare Breed'. At a mere 3.8%ABV this pale ale combines Maris Otter malting barley with two types of hop, and we found it pleasant although being of a lower gravity after consuming stronger beers, we weren't really able to appreciate its finer points.

The pub has a fine looking menu, and we are threatening to get there for lunch sometime soon. This pub is also easily found, being literally just off the A37 Fosse Way where it deviates from its Roman origins, South of Lydford.

Butcombe Brewery was started by the late Simon Whitemore in 1978. He was a former director of Courage, and having been disillusioned by the insistence of the accountant-led business to obtain cheaper and cheaper ingredients leading to what he considered a blander beer, he put his money where his mouth was.

It was tough for him and his team and thanks to a wild yeast getting in somewhere it was not welcomed, brew after brew was lost which at one time took the

business to the edge. It would appear things are much stronger now, and we certainly feel that Butcombe is a reliable pint. A visit to their web-site reveals the extent of the range. Most of these beers we have not seen at the pumps yet, but one that did catch my eye was 'Crimson King' a 4.3%ABV red beer. The pump clip owes much to the cover of the 70's prog-rock band album 'King Crimson in the court of the Crimson King' (tracks are still sometimes played on Radio 2 by Ken Bruce). I have no doubt that a few of you of a certain age are nodding and smiling quietly to yourselves!

We mentioned the Good Beer Guide earlier, and again I have to congratulate those who made it into the guide for 2016 (available from CAMRA and all good book shops; other guides are available but you have to pay to get in them). Commiserations to those who didn't make it into the guide but perhaps should have. Congratulations to my old mate and regular 'Viz' advertiser Pete Lambden whose pub 'The Quicksilver Mail' makes it in yet again, deservedly, and is the only entry for Yeovil. Well done Pete, it's not an easy thing to do.

So as the rain pours down o ut s id e w h ils t t he w e a t he r forecasters still insist we are going to get the ninety plus / 34C temperatures of the 'Spanish Plume' (whatever that is) I reflect on another summer that has 'not happened' - and the prices of 1976. Have my wages multiplied by the factor of fourteen, just like the beer?

Now; let me think...! *coulrophobia - a fear of clowns.

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

IN BAYFORD ... congratulations go to The Unicorn Inn, on being the CAMRA Cider Pub Of The Year, Wessex Region, once again ... open mic’ night at The Dolphin Hotel, Wincanton at 8pm on Thursday 27th October ... Wednesday Steak Night at Truffles Brasserie, Bruton, 2 courses for £14.50 ... and enjoy a good days racing and excellent food with Sean’s Racing Packages at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague.

Nipping on to North Cadbury, help raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support at The Catash Inn’s Coffee Morning Friday 30th September from 9am ... Farmers Market and Christmas Gifts Saturday 28th November 10am until 3pm at The Red Lion, Babcary ... and in Corton Denham you can enjoy a beauty treatment at the newly opened Another Little World @ The Farm

The CATASH INN North Cadbury • BA22 7DH

FOLK NIGHT first Tuesday every month ...

Next meeting 4th October  7.30pm  All welcome

NEW TAPAS MENU  Wednesday Nights  6pm – 9pm

Starts Wednesday 19th October

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QUIZ NIGHT  Saturday 29th October  8.30pm Cash Prizes  Maximum 6 per team, £2 per player

Large Beer Gardens

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Skittle Alley

BARRINGTON BOAR

Traditional Village Freehouse and B&B

Our lovely pub can be found in the picturesque and tranquil Somerset village of Barrington, just 2 miles from the market town of Ilminster.

The village has some of the most beautiful ham stone thatched cottages in the county, and is also the home to the National Barrington, Ilminster Trust property of Barrington Court, which was used recently Somerset, TA19 0JB for the filming of the BBC production of Wolf Hall. We can be Tel: 01460 259281 found in the heart of the village just opposite the beautiful Email: barringtonboar@outlook.com 13th century church of St. Mary the Virgin. www.barringtonboar.co.uk Bar open

Monday 6.00pm to 9.00pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 12.00 Noon to 2.30pm and 6.00pm to 11.00pm

Saturday 12.00 Noon to 12.00 Midnight Sunday 12.00 Noon to 9.00pm Food is available

Tuesday to Sunday 12.00 Noon to 2.00pm Tuesday to Saturday 6.30pm to 9.00pm

The Boar has a far reaching reputation for serving fresh quality food prepared by our young and innovative kitchen team. We have an interesting and varied menu for diners to choose from, along with a great selection of real ales, ciders, lagers and wines to complement your food, or for just having a relaxing drink.

If you are looking for a romantic break, a base for touring the area or a comfortable place to stay on business, then our 4 en suite bed and breakfast rooms would be perfect.

Clean and comfortable, with flat screen TV, free WIFI and tea and coffee making facilities, they are a home from home.  10 minutes from A303 and M5.

40 minutes from Lyme Regis, West Bay & Beer

THE VISITOR October 2016 57

The

Pub Pages

followed by a delicious meal at the nearby Queens Arms packages available.

Bumbling on to Butleigh where you can find five different ciders at The Rose & Portcullis ...

Mike at The Fox & Hounds, Charlton Adam tells us they have a very nice choice of fresh fish ...

The Cross Keys, Lydford celebrated their 3rd successful year of trading with a cider and cheese festival ... Nuova Italia, the Italian Restaurant in Ilchester, has been tastefully refurbished and has live music the last Friday of every month ... and in Yeovil, Pete at The Quicksilver Mail, is busy decorating.

Skipping on to Sherborne look out for the Special Pack Monday Meal Promotions at The Crown, where they raised £136 for St. Margaret’s Hospice with their singalong ... it was gold again for

The Grange at Oborne in the Taste of the West, South West England Awards ... recently featured in The Telegraph, The Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas has worldwide fame, for full details see their website ... The Kings Arms, Thornford recently played host to 34 ladies from the Queen Camel Tuesday Group who had a thoroughly enjoyable lunch.

Shooting on to South Petherton where congratulations go to The Brewers Arms on winning CAMRA Somerset Pub of the Year ... always an excellent pint at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton ... Steak and Kidney Pie a popular choice at The Cat Head Inn, Chiselborough where more improvements are afoot and finally ... at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock Mick and Jean would like to thank all their customers and friends for their recent surprise Golden Wedding celebrations.

BOOk your Festive advertising early ...

Tel: 01963 351256 NOVEMBER ISSUE Published: Thursday 27th October Deadline: Friday 14th October

DECEMBER ISSUE Published: Thursday 24th November Deadline: Friday 11th November

The Rose & Crown

Bradford Abbas • Tel: 01935 474506

B&B

Saturday 1st October – Johnny Cash Tribute Saturday 15th October – John Ramon Saturday 22nd October – Blue Deal

Thursday 6th October – Italian Theme Night £10 per ticket on sale now, to include selection of food & wine

GARDENING

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming

Autumn Wonders

AUTUMN IS GREAT in so many ways. With summer disappearing over the horizon we have a wonderful time of the year to enjoy before the winter gloom descends (I am not a cold, wet, low-light, short day fan).

October is often the best autumn month, with reasonable weather, some clear sunny days and cool nights that encourage the leaves on so many plants to do their autumn thing! Drawing sugars back from the leaves to the stem to store over winter, letting green turn to yellow, orange and red. Brilliant!

Big activity in the garden now is bulb planting, and if you have never done any bulb planting before, I offer the following tips and suggestions. You will see bulbs in the garden centres now and again in the spring. The early flowering bulbs need to go into the ground now and the less hardy summer flowering sorts get planted in spring. You will also see a lot of bulbs in pots, in

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58 THE VISITOR October 2016

Fridays 5.30 – 7.30 Selected PINTS ... only £2

flower, from February onward.

It’s not a bad way to plant especially if you want quick colour or you’re not sure how the bulbs in the packet will actually turn out, but it is a more expensive way to go about things and you miss out on the whole bulb planting thing as there is a lot of magic involved here by putting a dry bulb into the ground and waiting for it to make a show in 3 or 4 months’ time. Sheer magic!

First step is to plan by deciding where you can plant bulbs, the time you want them flowering and the soil conditions. A lot of bulbs, like bluebells and anemones, live naturally on the woodland edge, under the canopy of deciduous trees, flowering early grabbing the moment when there is light and space before the trees get their leaves. Other bulbs grow in wild meadows or on mountain slopes. All in all there are bulbs for every location. The people who select, grow and package bulbs are usually very good about telling you what the bulbs in a

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GARDENING

packet will do: the height, time of flowering and conditions. The picture on the front is generally reliable so what you see is more or less what you’ll get. Loose bulbs can be cheaper and will have information alongside to tell you what they are.

Quality is important; choose firm undamaged bulbs of a good size for that particular variety as small bulbs may not flower in their first year.

Most bulbs like reasonable soil with adequate drainage as they will rot if they sit in water all winter. Poorly drained clay soils can be more challenging but the addition of well-rotted or bagged compost, and a little sharp sand or grit immediately underneath a bulb will make the difference.

If soil, or lack of it, is a real problem then bulbs and containers are a natural match.

Bulb planting depth is crucial; as a rough guide if you measure the bulb from base to tip and multiply by 3 then that should be about right. So you could be planting 6” deep for a lot of bulbs especially daffodils. This is important to allow them to develop properly and get established. Shallow planted bulbs will mostly flower but will be more as temporary displays.

Daffodils, crocus and hyacinths are best planted in October whilst tulips are best in November. A lot of bulb growers offer combinations of bulbs: be aware these probably won’t all flower at

the same time so the picture on the packet of a crocus and a tulip together is unlikely to happen.

However they will flower in sequence and give a spread of colour over a longer period and that can work really well.

Plant of the Month This time of the year brings ‘berried’ treasure as berry-bearing trees and shrubs come into their own in autumn, creating colourful displays that can last well into winter. From elder berries to rose hips, crab apples to firethorns, the addition of berrying plants adds a new dimension to any garden, with plants carrying fruits and berries through autumn and into winter.

Berrying plants also provide home grown food for hungry birds and wildlife, enhancing their appeal and value to any garden.

Evergreen shrubs provide structure and form to the garden throughout the year, but many produce early displays of flowers followed by autumn berries. One of the best compact shrubs for borders or patio pots is a Skimmia with a mouthful of a name, Skimmia japonica subsp. reevesiana. Don't let this put you off as its displays of bright red berries are second to none!

Also check out the compact and spreading Viburnum davidii, a hardy shrub with distinctly veined evergreen foliage that produces the most unusual metallic-looking blue-black

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THE VISITOR October 2016 59

berries. It really is quite a talking point.

To create seasonal pots for autumn colour include a small Gaultheria mucronata carrying brilliant berries in pink, red or pure white. Combined with pansies and violas, trailing ivy, heather, Carex or Skimmia your pots will put on a display that lasts for months.

Trained against walls and fences, firethorn is a valuable evergreen shrub. Its thorny stems make it a great choice for producing secure garden boundaries, but don't let the spines put you off buying Pyracantha. They provide valuable nesting sites for birds, flowers that attract bees, and red,

GARDENING

orange or yellow berries to feed birds into winter.

Explore the cotoneaster family too, attractive ornamental shrubs with year-round appeal. The arching stems with herringbonepatterned stalks of Cotoneaster horizontalis make it an excellent choice to carpet banks and low borders or train up to cover bare fences. Birds love these berries, quickly stripping stems bare as they stock-up for winter.

If space allows, many ornamental trees produce bright berries and fruits as well as good displays of autumn foliage colour.

Two of the best families are Rowan (Sorbus) and Crab Apple (Malus), and both make ideal trees for small gardens.

Trained against walls & fences Pyracantha is a valuable evergreen shrub ... but watch out for the thorns!

With such a rich and diverse range of plants to choose from it really is possible to fill your borders with berried treasure this autumn!

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changes to this wonderful dark crumbly compost that brings life to soil. Pure alchemy. Important thing is to break down fibrous material and mix it with softer sappy bits. Ideally leaves and twigs going through a shredder mixed with grass clippings or weeds. That mix heats up well and breaks down fast. If you haven’t got a shredder then a rotary mower is just as good and helps clear the leaves from the lawn.

From the garden, you can use most plant material except for anything diseased and perennial weed roots such as bindweed or dandelion. If the mix is right then it will heat up and weed seeds will be destroyed but if you aren’t confident of your composting skills leave the seed heads out. The other essential is worms. My compost bins are jam packed with small tiger worms that gobble down everything that goes into the bin! They then seem to retreat to a dark corner when the job is done and wait for the next load.

Perennial borders can be tackled now, lifting and dividing overgrown clumps before replanting, with some of last year’s home-made compost!

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I would certainly move or lift any tender plants now and protect them before the winter starts. In recent years we have seen the hardest frosts in November but who knows what this winter will bring?

In the veg garden, it is an ideal time to lift, divide and replant rhubarb crowns, plant out spring cabbages, finish off harvesting and picking late apples. Winter soil preparation can wait until November.

Then there’s the grass. It is getting late to sow but new lawn mixes available will germinate at lower temperatures than was previously possible so careful choice is important. Turf laying is possible anytime provided the ground is properly prepared and not waterlogged or frozen. Mossy lawns can be scarified, then aerated, top dressed and fed with an autumn lawn feed. So that’s raking over with a spring-tined rake, pushing a fork into compacted areas and wriggling it a bit to ease the soil, then spreading and levelling a lawn

GARDENING

dressing made from top soil mixed with sharp sand. There are machines to hire that make the job a bit easier and I think I am going to get one this year to save my poor aching back!

Enjoy!

Happiness in the South West is a Garden Shed

anything in the house, and 6% prefer ‘shed time’ to sex.

Secret Sheds

Be it a ‘she shed’ or ‘man cave’, the garden shed is a haven for many. 29% use their shed as a hideaway, with 11% seeking time

away from partners, and others using it as a secret hidey hole for chocolate, cigarettes, alcohol, and even love letters from exes.

All Shed Cons

Far from the damp draughty stereotype, the modern garden

The humble garden shed may hold the key to contentment. 98% of shed owners in the South West say their shed makes them happy, according to the Waltons Great British Shed Survey.

For ‘sheddies’ (those who love their shed), the shed is much more than a place to store gardening tools - it’s the ultimate retreat. In the South West, over 50% of people surveyed say they love sheds so much they’d happily spend a country break staying in one, and 19% say they would even live in their shed.

Shed owners in the South West eagerly anticipate the time they spend in their shed: 35% say it’s better than going to the pub, 43% say it’s better than doing almost

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THE VISITOR October 2016 61

GARDENING

shed often has all the mod cons.

Most sheddies surveyed have electricity in their shed, 24% have heating, and 26% have WiFi.

Sanctuary

40% of sheddies in the South West go to their shed to relax, with 16% playing music and 12% meditating. Other sheddies retreat to their garden hideaway for dinner, to watch a film, read, write, sleep, and even enjoy a sauna.

‘In the shed, I can pursue my interests with all my tools and bits and bobs to hand’, one respondent says. Another comments: ‘My shed gives me space, private time alone to daydream!’

Happiness is indeed, a garden shed!

Autumn Events at Hestercombe

With autumn just around the corner, the packed programme at Hestercombe is sure to keep you busy despite those shorter days:

Giant Book Sale Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October, 11am – 5pm

Calling all bookworms! For one weekend only they are expanding their second-hand bookshop (all run by volunteers) into the Bampfylde Hall. You’re guaranteed to find a bargain on any number of topics. Allow time for a good old browse!

Free entry to the book sale.

Fungal Forays Sunday 9th October, 10.30am – 12.30pm & 2pm – 4pm

Michael Jordan, author and chairman of the Association of British Fungal Groups, will lead fun and informative walks through the gardens to discover and identify the many different types of mushrooms and toadstools to be found at Hestercombe.

Book at hestercombe.com or call 01823 413923.  £12 online, £13 offline

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Suppliers of Quality Recycled Aggregates Top Soil – Crushed Concrete – Road Planings All Types of Limestone Aggregates Sand and Gravel – Decorative Aggregates Asphalt Plant / Asphalt Products – Hot Box Hire Grab Lorries – Tipper Hire – Muckaway

New Asphalt Plant Installed

20mm Base • 10mm Top Coats • 6mm Top Coats Lime Stone or Hard

Small Loads Collected or Delivered 7am – 4pm Daily • Monday – Friday ✴ Road Sweeper Hire ✴

Please call to enquire if we can help you with anything

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD. Podimore,Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8JG Tel: 01935 849250 • Fax: 01935 849099 Mobile: 07973 844145

62 THE VISITOR October 2016

Wine & Dine

You get what you pay for ...

IT IS SAD but true that when selecting wine most of us base our choices on price. However, as with almost all things in life, you generally get what you pay for.

In stretching those hard-earned pennies a little further, it can help to understand why some wines cost considerably more money than others; and why it is often worth pushing the boat out to pay that little bit extra.

Apart from the variation in costs such as marketing, packaging and shipping, there are a number of other variables, almost always warranting the difference in price.

From the beginning, the cost of land on which the vines are cultivated will vary widely; established vineyards with a good reputation will fetch higher prices than untried, untested areas. This variation can be by as much as a staggering million pounds per acre.

The quality, and variety of the vines themselves, along with the density of their planting will also affect the cost of the final product; much the same as buying cheap and cheerful garden plants and cramming them in, versus selecting special varieties and nurturing them, allowing them the space they need to grow. As any gardener knows, the less grapes on a vine, the more taste, flavour, colour and intensity there will be.

The method used for harvesting can be one of the most

significant elements in fine wine making; whether to harvest by machine, which by its very nature is unable to differentiate between ripe and unripe grapes, or hand harvesting, as in the case of the finest sauternes, where each grape is literally selected and picked by hand. Tending to the vines and pruning them by hand produces far superior results, at a price. This is naturally an expensive and time consuming exercise but ensures that every grape is at its peak.

Botrytis affected vines, attacked by ‘noble rot’, will affect yield, as these shrivelled grapes, with their luscious, unctuous sweetness will yield much less juice, requiring more grapes to make the resulting wine.

Many wine makers are also beginning to be more conscious of the use of chemicals in their wine making, moving over to more biodynamic natural wine making methods, but with less certain results and often lower yields, in addition to the added cost of certification.

Likewise, juice extraction is significant; free run juice will be purer, but will produce less quantity than grapes that are pressed to extract more juice.

Having got this far in the process, how the wine is fermented and stored will produce differing results. There are several ways to produce sparkling wine, but only one approved for making champagne.

Using big stainless steel tanks for fermentation and storage, requiring a huge initial investment, will be in use for

Farm Shops & Local Produce

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock DELICIOUS HOME GROWN VEGETABLES

• A full range of red meat, poultry, bacon, sausages etc. • Fruit & veg.

• Dairy produce • Preserves and pickles • Bread and biscuits • Draught and bottled cider and wine • A fantastic range of frozen fruit & pastries • Ice cream, homemade cakes & coffee shop OPEN: Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 6.00pm Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

HOME GROWN STRAWBERRIES

Tel: 01935 827743

W&D

some time. By contrast, storing and maturing wine in French oak barrels requires a level of craftsmanship, and the costs that goes with it, in addition to regular replacement. Less scrupulous winemakers, who intend their wines for mass-market consumption, will use cheap oak chippings, staves, or even oak essence to give the required character, but the wine will not have the same nuances or subtlety of wine made slowly with care.

Some wines are made ready for drinking but those that are intended to improve with ageing will incur additional costs for the storage required.

Where a wine is made can also have an impact. In countries where labour is cheap the cost of caring for the vines and harvesting the grapes will be less onerous. The terrain itself can also cause problems; it is easier and more cost effective to harvest grapes from flat terrain than that on a steeply sloping hillside.

The finest wines are subject to strict criteria governing the grape varieties permitted, vine density, maximum yield allowed, when harvesting can begin and also the method and length of fermentation; all of which can have an impact on the end cost.

Of course there is also the whole supply and demand issue.

Wine made in lesser quantities will command higher prices in relation to demand.

Last but not least, let’s not forget branding which, along with ‘expert’ opinion, can do much to push up demand, and the price.

My advice, do your homework, and if you cannot afford top notch wine then select one from a reliable producer with an adjacent vineyard, which may not have the same designation but may well be very similar in style and quality for a fraction of the cost.

For the curious, here is a breakdown of the cost for an average bottle of wine priced at £4.99. · 60p – average labour and shipping costs · £2.83 – tax · £1.40 – average profit margin · 16p – wine quality It makes senses then to spend a bit more, as over and above the fixed costs every penny spent goes towards quality.

LP-V.

the end bit ...

PAPERCHASE

BACK IN JUNE the Western Gazette launched its ‘brand new 24-page leisure pull-out’ entitled ‘What’s On’. This replaced its ‘free 32-page leisure pull-out’ called ‘Your Weekend’ that had first seen the light of day as recently as September 2014 and which editor Emma Slee described as ‘the best leisure offering the Western Gazette has ever produced’. Since the 4th August issue ‘What’s On’ has shrunk to just 16 pages – and at least three of those are direct lifts from the previous Friday’s Western Daily Press. Is this ‘the best leisure offering’ that the Western Gazette can produce nowadays, even though the leisure opportunities in its circulation area have certainly not halved in less than two years? I get the impression from the columns of the Blackmore Vale Magazine and local community magazines that they have actually increased, so could the 50% reduction in the number of pages be because the supplement is not pulling in the advertising revenue that had been hoped for, I wonder. And if that’s the case, the newspaper’s management should be asking itself ‘why?’.

You might recall that in last month’s column I complained that the Wincanton, Castle Cary, Bruton and Gillingham edition of the Western Gazette of 4th August had its meagre allocation of editionised pages swamped with news from Shepton Mallet. And I wondered whether the reporter could find so little to report from Wincanton, Castle Cary, Bruton and Gillingham that the editor had to resort to lifting stories from the Shepton Mallet Journal.

Things don’t seem to be improving. Bruton readers of the 8th September issue of their local edition must have been

Have you any “Congratulations on not being found guilty” cards?

disagreeably surprised to find that the paper contained no news from the town whatsoever – and perhaps wonder why they continue to fork out a quid for it.

Another of the Western Gazette’s pull-out supplements is entitled ‘Home’. This property supplement invariably has a ‘town focus’ feature on page 2 – some information about the place and its facilities, its average property prices and a short selection of properties currently on the market. In the 18th August issue the feature was headed ‘Town focus: Somerton’ but the accompanying photo showed the Cerne Abbas Giant and the information was about Cerne Abbas, the village in which all the featured properties were located. Another example of slipshod production methods, methinks.

And here is another one. I seldom see any of the titles in the

mid-Somerset newspaper series, so I’m grateful to our production manager Jeff who gave me page 29 of the 4th August issue of the Central Somerset Gazette. Half of the page is devoted to readers’ letters, the first of which is beneath the strange heading pictured below. Surprisingly the other three letters on the page have exactly the same heading.

Not so much ‘heady heady heady’ as ‘nutty nutty nutty’ to think that a page missing its proper headings in such an obvious way could pass the scrutiny of a subeditor and find its way into print.

Chronicler.

Sudoku

by

T.M.

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

Solution to September

Sudoku

THE VISITOR October 2016 63

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM

Logs

Barn Stored Seasoned

HARDWOOD LOGS

 Seasoned Hard & Softwood Logs  Kindling – Briquettes – Coal  Various Load / Log Sizes ... FREE DELIVERY

Tel: 01458 251529 • Mobile: 07789 204232

Full details on our website: www.msmfirewood.co.uk

KILN DRIED LOGS

BUY NOW – SAVE £££s

 Kiln Dried Logs 1 Dumpy Bag £130  Kiln Dried Logs 2 Dumpy Bags £234  Kiln Dried Logs 3 Dumpy Bags £330  Kiln Dried Logs 3 Nets £25.50  Kiln Dried Logs 6 Nets £48  Kiln Dried Logs 10 Nets £75  Kindling Wood 3 Nets £10  Kindling Wood 5 Nets £15  Kindling Wood 10 Nets £27 kiln Dried Logs  burn more efficiently give more heat  light easily  burn cleanly

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ... with all orders over £50

ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE www.logs4fuel.co.uk

 01458 251476

Caricatures for Special Gifts

Domestic Appliances

Pe

PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs COVERING THE SOUTH LOCALLY

Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs

Ø Repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OAP discounts

TELEPHONE: 01935 609300 / 01747 470212 / 01460 220660 / 01458 298212 For your nearest technician

Taylors Domestic

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: taylorsdomesticappliances@gmail.com Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

for that Washing Machine Dish Washer Tumble Dryer problem

Call: 01935 509362 or ... 07890 301041 Yeovil and surrounding area

Call 01963 351256 TO ADVERTISE

HERE

Electrical Contractors

Oven Cleaning Mister Oven

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Communications

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners Covering Somerset and Dorset

AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Eco-Friendly Materials Used Experienced + Fully Insured Friendly Staff

Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145 www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk

WESTLINE COMMUNICATIONS

The Visitor can be read online www.thevisitor magazine.co.uk

64 THE VISITOR October 2016

Business Telecom Specialist For All Your Telecom Needs For free, friendly & professional advice call ...

John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM

Transport & Storage

The key to all your storage needs!

Plumbing & Heating

Fully Insured Storage at Highly Competitive Rates Call us today for a quote!

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

• Open 7 Days a Week • 20 Years Established Family Business

• Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service • Removals To and From Storage • Self Store with Easy Access • Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff

High Street, Sparkford, nr. Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692

Roofing

Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 34 White Road, MERE, Nr. Warminster Wiltshire, BA12 6EX

Email: mead208@btinternet.com

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

01963 33528 / 07885 723915 Email: allancarey541@hotmail.com

Bourton Roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering F R EE EST IMAT ES

 01747 840064

... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk

Services

GOOD POTATOES

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴

Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor Gas Car and Van Rental • Competitive Prices

Anchor Hill Service Station WINCANTON 01963 32609

Fire & Security Alarms

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

Framing

SCENES

Clock Repairs

Artist Materials & Gallery

 Picture Framing  Restoration  Large Selection of Prints and Paintings  Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel: 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

November Deadline Friday 14th October 01963 351256

CLOCK REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

Your advert reaching 60,000 readers

THE VISITOR October 2016 65

Classified Ads

Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential.

For a Box Number please add £2.

Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.

✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.

Prize Crossword No. 360 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG – to arrive by Friday 14th October.

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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NAME .....................................................................................................................................................................

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ADDRESS .............................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................................................................

Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5

Personal

www.country-link.org.uk COUNTRY LINK SOCIAL GROUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918.

JUST SOMERSET INTRODUCTIONS. Bringing people together. Call Alison Tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk GENT 69, enjoys travel, theatre, National Trust, seaside, music. Seeks lady, nonsmoker, easy going. Tel: 01458 440094.

25

Trulock – Gliddon

Silver Wedding Anniversary 26th October Ian, HAPPY 25th ANNIvERSARY I look forward to the medal Love C x

Catering / Mobile Bars

HARRY’S MOBILE BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

Services

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN RUBBISH CLEARED, old sheds / oubuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

Storage

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

66 THE VISITOR October 2016

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.

COINS & COIN COLLECTIONS, prints, maps, books, and manuscripts.Tel: 01225 793575, Mobile: 07754 058850.

POP SINGLES from 1950s, 1960s etc., also LP records, classical, pop, rock. Tel: 07731 534424.

GUNS WANTED for cash. Any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. Tel: 07970 742471.

For Sale

48 PIECE CORONET bone china tea service. Excellent condition, £60 ono.

Collectable Sylvac cottage ware.

Excellent condition, £25 ono. Tel: 01258 860392.

Passport Photographs

PASSPORTS - passports - passports also studio sittings, and golden weddings.

Any time to suit you. Easy parking opposite The Quarry Inn. Tel: Graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

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Across:

8.

6.

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Parents’ lab needs sorting to find Devon address. [10] Friendly weapon. [4] Organiser of cause? Members are camping. [10] Impartial trade show. [4] Sunny penalty. [4] Tidy up back field. [9] With anti-bass adjusted, declines to take part. [8] Frightened? Partly it was car Edith lent! [6] Din Ian ordered for a Delhi native. [6] Is first third taken in by collier? Take care! [8] Mix meant (with Hampton Court feature) surprise. [9] At first some one’s noisy gaiety may sound nice. [4] Metal pressing. [4] Find bike under green arrangment. [4-6] Lump done differently. [4] A birch, upset with retail outlet, in the clergy. [10]

14.

17.

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25.

Argues over exchange of goods around end, with barmen. [10] Bias our chair, sorted for dinosaurs. [12] Postal delivery confused with country in layers. [10] If the fit is changed, ordinal becomes golden. [8] Gem gets shaky nod with half diameter cut away! [7] Freshwater fish gulps in fivesixths of a foot. [3-4] Little stop-light returns with one who pulls up bad growth.

[6] Work follows physician a little.

[4]

Solution to Crossword 359

Down: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

7.

Young animal rising on king to find another. [4] What’s left when control-lines take in a degree. [7] Stag, eager to swallow man, job in the theatre. [5,7] Becoming cross, earning first guineas in a muddle. [8] Yale we confuse with a bit of slack. [3-3] Former railway accepts listener as student. [7]

THE WINNER OF OUR SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD was Michael Davies of Radstock, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton, South Petherton.