Crossing counties, look inside for info on the best events and activities in West Dorset and South Somerset
Magazine
EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY AT
EAT FESTIVALS ACROSS SOMERSET THIS MONTH
Issue 249 December 2021
SEE PAGE 4 FOR MORE INFO
INSIDE THIS MONTH
A man with a passion for gin! | Where to go for Inner Sparkle
Win tickets to Ed Byrne | Christmas traditions | Protecting your creations Serving Bruton, Castle Cary, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Langport, Sherborne, Somerton, Wincanton, Yeovil & Surrounding Villages www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
Established in 1826, Pittards is world-famous for its high quality leather and still makes it locally in Yeovil today. Visit the factory store to buy direct from a huge range that includes gloves, bags, accessories and leather for crafts. Pittards, Sherborne Road, Yeovil, BA21 5BA Coffee shop, free car park. Mon-Fri 10.00am-5.00pm
www.pittards.com
Crafting quality timber buildings and gates since 1912 Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7LH Tel: (01963) 440414 | Email: info@sparkford.com | @sparkfordtimber | www.sparkford.com
From the Editor We are feeling generous as it’s that time of year and we want to encourage those businesses who haven’t already experienced the benefits of advertising with us to give it a go in 2022. Turn to p5 and see how you could win a year’s free advertising with The Conduit. If you flick through the magazine you will find a great mix of articles including an expanding section geared towards business full of helpful advice for start-ups and for those who may want to know about protecting intellectual property rights; as well as how to price what you are offering - whether it’s a service or a product. We also welcome two new columnists, one of whom is in our Health and Wellbeing section and is all about helping you find your Inner Sparkle and the other who is writing all about Gin – something that seems to encourage many of us to sparkle at this time of year! Wishing all our readers a Very Happy Christmas and Joyous New Year!
Contents Info on markets, workshops & social activities
ARTS p21-27
Exhibitions, Music & Movies
MOTORING p28-29
GARDENING p11-13
Is this car your BFF?
Pergolas & Garden Folklore
Are ideas two a penny?
HISTORY p19
Delving into Christmas Past
ASSISTANT EDITOR Julie Locke
JANUARY DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 10 DECEMBER Advertisements: MONDAY, 13 DECEMBER
WHAT’S ON p4-10
LEGAL p17-18
EDITOR & ADVERTISING Jane Adkins
FOOD & DRINK p32-35
Spirit, Spice & Christmas hampers!
HEALTH & WELLBEING p37-40
How to reduce stress
Visit our website for more Events, Services and Classifieds www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk Unit 4, Barton View Business Park, Sheeplands Lane, Sherborne DT9 4FW | 01935 424724 | info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk © The publisher is The Conduit Magazine Limited. The layout, format, design and all other aspects of this magazine are an original idea and therefore copyright of the publisher. No part of the contents may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission in writing. Whilst every care is taken in compiling the contents of this magazine, the proprietor assumes no responsibility for mistakes and omissions. The views of our contributors is not necessarily the view of the publisher.
3 www.remousonline.com
WHAT’S ON
EAT:FESTIVALS – THE LOWDOWN! Five Somerset towns are set to host wonderful celebrations of local food and drink this winter. Street, Taunton, Nailsea, Yeovil and Weston-superMare will each host a festive food and drink festival with over 70 food and drink producers and local makers booked in to showcase their products plus some high quality entertainment. Each is curated and produced by the team behind the eat:Festivals, who are excited by all of them but especially by the county’s largest festive market in Taunton on 27 November.
Head of Sparkle, Sarah Milner Simonds says, ‘The festivals will celebrate the best of region and will showcase some fantastic food and drink alongside crafters, makers and talented performers. ‘You can expect farmers’ market favourites like cheese, ales and pies alongside artisan chocolates, gin and charcuterie. All the hot food providers will be offering a lowpriced option and there will be lots of vegan, gluten free and other dietary options available. There will be music and festive characters - including a very jolly Father Christmas.’ The festival organisers have got some new elements alongside the fantastic local producers. You will be able to snap yourself a life-size Christmas card and the team will have some props on hand so you can create your unique card using your phone. They are also on the lookout for the best Christmas jumper ever. All you have to do is snap yourself in your jumper at the festival and post it on Twitter, Instagram or the event pages
with the #EATMYJUMPER to be in with a chance of winning a very special eat:Festivals’ prize. We caught up with one of the organisers, Bev Milner Simonds, to find out more.
reason, to have enough food on the table at this time of year.’
‘We love bringing the town centre to life for our one-day events and we wanted to spread that cheer into the winter months with these festive festivals. Christmas is traditionally a time for feasting and we hope that many visitors with use the festivals as an opportunity to stock up on local produce to share with friends and family. We are also working with the local Foodbank to provide a drop-off point for donations for those in the local community who aren’t in a position, for whatever
eat:Nailsea 4 December – Crown Glass Shopping Centre and High Street
eat:Taunton 27 November – Hammet Street and East Street
eat:Yeovil 11 December – Quedam Centre and Middle Street eat:Weston-super-Mare 12 December – The Winter Gardens (inside) Editor’s note: Street’s Sparkle Festival took place on 20 November as we went to Press.
LOCAL
FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL
SAT 11 DEC Quedam Shopping Centre 10 - 4
Supported by:
50+ PRODUCERS, STREET FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT WWW.EATFESTIVALS.ORG
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To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.
What’s On Charity DORSET Inspire a child to read! Local charity Dorset Reading Partners is recruiting volunteers to deliver vital literacy support to children in primary schools across the area. The charity has been supplying primary schools with trained literacy volunteers for fifteen years. Volunteers will be provided with full training, a DBS check, resources and ongoing support from the charity’s friendly team. If interested and can spare two hours a week over a school year, contact Juliet on 01305 458515 or visit dorsetreadingpartners.org.uk. ONLINE St Margaret’s Hospice Care Weekly Prize Draw The draw takes place every Friday (advance notice given if the draw day changes) and each chance costs just £1. All of the profits raised from the hospice draw provide vital funding to help St Margaret’s support patients and families facing the challenge of a life-limiting illness. For further information, please visit www. st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/ weekly-prize-draw. YEOVIL New Breast Cancer Unit Appeal Just over £1.9 million raised! Yeovil Hospital Charity needs £2 million to build this much needed unit, but due to the effects of Covid and an increase in building costs, more will have to be raised. The appeal for unwanted and broken jewellery and watches continues – many thanks go to those who have already donated. Thanks also go to The Pod in Sherborne for allowing the charity to
use their display window to highlight the appeal and for taking in donations of jewellery or watches. To donate, please call Maggie (appeal committee volunteer) on 01963 250108.
Christmas BRUTON On Friday 26 November from 9.00am to 4.00pm at At The Chapel, there is The Somerset Collective Pop-up Christmas sale. A fantastic opportunity to shop local for unique gifts while supporting independent producers and local causes, with more than twenty independent stall-holders offering a range of festive gift items. 10% of proceeds will be donated to the BruBowl, an initiative to create a new skate park for Bruton, accommodating skateboards, bikes, scooters, blades and skates. Free entry. CASTLE CARY On Saturday 4 December from 10.00am to 3.00pm at Caryford Community Hall, there is a Christmas Craft Market. Buy locally crafted, quality gifts in time for Christmas. The Caryford Cafe will be serving refreshments, along with hot soup, bread and cheese at lunchtime. Raffle. Free off-road parking. Free entry. Event subject to government guidelines on the day. In aid of the Caryford Hall Extension Project. www.caryfordhall.co.uk. CREWKERNE On Tuesday 7 December from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, come along and hear the amazing Mawgan Stott
WHAT’S ON
Contact: Julie Locke
/theconduitmagazine
E: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk
@conduitmag
sing a host of Christmas hits and carols while enjoying a lovely two-course lunch! Beef stew and dumplings followed by meringue, forest fruits and cream. £12.50 per person. Start the Christmas season with a bang! For more information and to book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre. org. On Saturday 11 December at 6.45pm at the Henhayes Centre, come along to the Henhayes Christmas Party Night for a rock ‘n’ roll Christmas. Enjoy a set three-course Christmas meal and live cabaret entertainment. Tickets £25. Booking essential: closing date for booking Friday 3 December. To book, call 01460 74340. For more information, visit the Henhayes Facebook page. On Tuesday 14 December from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, get in the Christmas spirit with a host of Christmas carols sung by the fantastic Trinity Entertainers. Enjoy roast turkey and all the trimmings followed by a delicious Christmas pud! £14.50 per person. For more
TOP PRICES PAID FOR OLD TOYS - any condition
Trains, cars and lorries, soldiers, etc Britains, Dinky, Corgi, Hornby, Meccano, Tri-ang, etc
01935 816072 (07527 074343) Pastimes of Sherborne, 3 Westbury (in front of the Abbey)
information and to book, call 01460 74340 or email office@ henhayescentre.org. On Saturday 18 December at the Henhayes Centre, there’s a chance for children to meet Father Christmas in Henhayes Christmas Grotto. Booking essential: appointments available between 10.00am and 1.00pm. Tickets £4.50 per child. To book, call 01460 74340. For more information, visit the Henhayes Facebook page. The Henhayes Big Breakfast Fundraiser in also in full swing so why not make a morning of it with a yummy breakfast as well! On Tuesday 21 December from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there’s a Christmas Party! Enjoy a Christmas buffet followed by sweet treats, quizzes, games, and a visit from Father Christmas! £8.50 per person. For more information and to
We are always keen to buy antique silver and old Sheffield plate at current prices Please telephone or call into the shop
01935 816828 38 CHEAP STREET, SHERBORNE DORSET DT9 3PX enquiries@henrywillis.co.uk www.henrywillis.co.uk
WIN FREE ADVERTISING FOR YOUR BUSINESS IN 2022! Our Christmas Gift to You Any business not having advertised for the past 12 months in The Conduit and booking a series (three or more) of adverts for 2022 will be entered into a draw and the winner will receive a year’s free advertising for the sizes booked. That means a potential saving of £3,600 (based on a standard full colour page rate) All bookings must be taken by 31 December 2021. Call 01935 424724 or email info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk NOW!
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WHAT’S ON
book, call 01460 74340 or email office@henhayescentre.org.
bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.
MARTOCK On Saturday 4 December from 10.00am to 2.30pm at All Saints Church is the Christmas Market. Stalls, cakes, raffle and refreshments. For more information, call 01935 824238.
YEOVIL Until Thursday 23 December in Yeovil town centre, get in the Christmas spirit with Love Yeovil! Join in festive fun events including live music, Santa’s post office, lantern parade and the Christmas panto. For more information, visit www. loveyeovil.com or the @LoveYeovil Facebook page.
On Saturday 4 December from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm at the Parish Hall, meet Santa and his elves in Santa’s Grotto. Grab a hot festive drink and something sweet to eat. Free event organised by Martock Community Group. Last admittance 2.30pm. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/martockcommunitygroup. SHERBORNE Until Friday 24 December at Castle Gardens, the Christmas display is open, welcoming one and all. With hundreds of glass baubles, paper decorations and wooden ornaments on show, along with twinkly LED lights, visitors can wander through magical woodland scenes, enjoy a trip on safari and venture under the sea. Taking people and planet into consideration, the displays have been constructed using repurposed and recycled materials, and many of the decorations have been sourced from small-scale makers and fair-trade businesses. Open: Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 6.00pm and Sunday 10.00am to 4.30pm. www.thegardensgroup. co.uk. On Sunday 5 December from 10.00am to 4.00pm in Sherborne is this year's Festive Shopping Day. Lighting the Tree at 4.00pm. For more information, visit @sherbornefestiveshopping. WELLS From 5 Sunday to Tuesday 21 December from 10.00am to 4.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, come along to ‘Christmas at the Palace’. The rooms of the medieval palace will be adorned with decorations and the entrance hall warmed by a roaring fire. Outside, visitors can explore the magical inner gardens lit up with Christmas illuminations. For younger visitors, Father and Mother Christmas will be visiting once again (pre-booked tickets only). Festive theatre, music and refreshments also available. Entrance is included in general admission. For more information, visit www. 6
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.
Until Friday 24 December at Brimsmore Gardens, the Christmas display is open, welcoming one and all. With hundreds of glass baubles, paper decorations and wooden ornaments on show, along with twinkly LED lights, visitors can wander through magical woodland scenes, enjoy a trip on safari and venture under the sea. Taking people and planet into consideration, the displays have been constructed using repurposed and recycled materials, and many of the decorations have been sourced from small-scale makers and fair-trade businesses. Open: Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 6.00pm and Sunday 10.00am to 4.30pm. www.thegardensgroup. co.uk. On Saturday 27 November from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the town centre is a brand new Christmas market, made up of local producers, artists and handmade gifts which have all been handpicked for quality. The market will also have live music throughout the day, so come along and kick start or complete that Christmas Shopping! On Friday 17 December from 5.30pm to 6.30pm outside St John’s Church is the Yeovil lantern parade. This year, the parade will be led by LED Mariposa Stilt Walkers. There will be prizes for the top three lanterns. For more information, visit www.loveyeovil.com.
Coffee Morning SHERBORNE Every Thursday from 10.00am to 11.30am at Cheap Street Church Hall is Coffee Time. Everyone welcome. WEST CAMEL Every Thursday from 9.15am to 11.30am at The Davis Hall, there is a coffee
morning. There will be the usual tea, coffee and cake, a selection available from The Bakery, eggs and local produce as available, plus post office. Free entry. WINCANTON On Saturday 11 December from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at St Peter and St Paul Parish Church, there is a Christmas coffee morning. Gifts, cakes, books and Christmas hamper raffle. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 01963 824503. YEOVIL Every Thursday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Yeovil Baptist Church, opposite the library, there is a coffee morning. At ‘Jacob’s Well’, hot and cold drinks are served, along with a delicious array of homemade cakes, scones and other goodies. Covid secure premises plus an outdoor seating area. Entry is free, and a warm welcome guaranteed!
Festival WINCANTON On Saturday 27 November, 4, 11 and 18 December from 5.00pm to 9.00pm at The Greening the eARTh Gallery and additional locations through the town, the Wincanton Town Festival of Lights shines a light on sustainability. At this free event, explore the grounds and gallery to view the installations whilst enjoying warm cider, hot chocolate and pizza and hearty stew, all sourced from local producers. Local artists featured will include Zac Greening, eARTh Vader, Fossil Optical and Jigantics, to name but a few. The gallery is located at 7 High Street. For more information, visit @wincantontownfestival.
Food CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 9.30am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, the yummy Henhayes Big Breakfast is served! Last orders at 11.30am. Breakfasts start from £5. Full breakfast menu and vegetarian options are available, with vegan options on request. On Saturday 18 December, there’s also a chance for children to meet Father Christmas in Henhayes Christmas Grotto.
ILMINSTER The Gallery Café at Ilminster Arts Centre is open for coffee and cakes, and light lunches. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 3.00pm and Saturday 9.30am to 2.30pm. LOPENHEAD The Trading Post Farm Shop is a hidden gem that delights with its selection of farm grown organic vegetables, locally sourced food, drink and unusual locally crafted gifts – it’s a wholefoods market, a greengrocer’s, a deli and a treasure trove, all rolled into one! The farm shop supports over 150 local suppliers providing the best produce that the West Country has to offer. Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6.00pm and Sunday 10.00am to 4.00pm. For more information, visit www. tradingpostfarmshop.co.uk. YEOVIL On Saturday 11 December from 10.00am to 4.00pm at the Quedam Centre and Middle Street is the Yeovil festive food and drink festival. This one-day celebration of local and regional food and drink, organised by multiaward-winning eat:Festivals, is free to attend and will have approximately fifty-plus regional food and drink producers, plus entertainment. www.eatfestivals. org.
Market BRADFORD ABBAS Every Tuesday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at the Rose and Crown car park. Local suppliers including meat, veg, bakery, florist and other stalls. CASTLE CARY Every Tuesday from 8.30am to 2.00pm at the Market House is a weekly openair market. Food stalls: West Country sourced fish, extensive range of cheeses, greengrocery plus Roots Organic, artisan bread, home-made preserves, home-made pies and pasties, Swanky Cakes, freshly-cooked Thai food and sauces, and Jack’s Mac and Cheese. Contact 01963 351763. www.castle-cary.co.uk/ market. CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 9.00am to 1.00pm outside Henhayes Centre is Crewkerne Farmers’ Market. It has a comprehensive selection of stalls, offering bread and baked goods, dairy
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. and eggs, drinks, fish, fruit, vegetables, meat, as well as preserves and honey. For more information, visit www. somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk.
4 December from 9.00am to 12.30pm at The Digby Hall, Hound Street, there is an indoor market. Arts, crafts, food and more. Cafe. Toilets. Free entry.
DRAYTON Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Drayton Village Hall is the monthly market. Produce includes bread, vegetables, meats, butter, cheese, cakes, preserves, honey, desserts, savouries and plants. Refreshments available. Free parking.
Every third Friday from 9.00am to 1.00pm at Cheap Street, there is a Dorset Farmers’ Market. Come and support local Dorset traders with a gorgeous selection of outdoor stalls. For more information, visit www. visit-dorset.com/food-and-drink/ farmers-markets.
EAST COKER Every Friday from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at the Recreation Ground. Local suppliers including meat, veg and bakery. ILMINSTER Every Thursday from 8.00am to 5.00pm at the Market House is the Ilminster Town Market. There are a variety of stalls, including a barber. Regular traders sell fruit and veg, bread, cakes, fish, preserves, olives and nuts, cheese, decorative items for the home and plants. For more information, contact Ilminster Town Council on 01460 52149. LEIGH Every Wednesday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at Leigh Village Hall car park. Local suppliers. MARTOCK On Saturday 11 December from 10.00am to 1.00pm at the Moorland’s Shopping Precinct is Martock Farmers’ Market, with stalls selling vegetables, cheese, coffee, chicken, beef, cordials, jams, bread, savouries and plants. Any enquiries, please call Fergus on 01935 822202. MILBORNE PORT Every Saturday from 10.00am to 1.00pm at The Square. Local suppliers including meat, veg, bakery, florist and other stalls. ODCOMBE Every Friday from 1.00pm to 2.00pm at Odcombe Village Hall car park. Local suppliers including meat, veg and bakery. SHEPTON MALLET Every Friday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at the Market Place is Shepton Mallet market. This historic market offers a wide range of fresh local produce, such as fruit, veg, bread, cheese, seafood, and cider. For more information, visit the market’s Facebook page or call 07912 769731. SHERBORNE On Saturday
SOMERTON Every first Friday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at the Buttercross, Market Place, is the Somerton Market. Vintage, retro, artisan food, bike repairs and more. For more information, visit the market’s Facebook page or call 01458 273008. Every Saturday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon at The Unicorn Hotel skittle alley is the Wessex Country Market offering a wide variety of artisan produce. Home-made baked goods using locally sourced ingredients, jams, marmalades, chutney and pickle – all unique to this market. Locally sourced butter, cheese, meat and fresh vegetables in season. For more information, visit Scrumerton Facebook page or call 01458 273926. WEST COKER Every Thursday from 10.00am to 11.00am behind Saunders Butchers. Local suppliers.
com. CASTLE CARY Every first Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00 noon at The Shambles, Market House, is Castle Cary Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Informal chat around large table with chance to ask for private space for peer support. Professional and escapist speakers. Contribution to refreshments. For more information, call Florence Mills on 01963 359081or email fliss1938@icloud.com. CREWKERNE Every Monday from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Monday Memory Group for the over 55s who suffer from dementia or memory problems. The group is a happy, social session for up to fifteen people, providing those attending with company, comfort, and stimulation, while providing their family members and carers some often much needed respite. Sessions start from £6.50 per person with the option to add drinks and a two-course lunch at an additional cost. To book, email office@henhayescentre. org. Every Tuesday from 10.00am
WHAT’S ON
to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, come along to the Henhayes Computer Group for the over 55s. Get help with computers, tablets, and smart phones in a welcoming and social environment. £3.50 per session, includes tea/coffee and a biscuit. To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org. Every Tuesday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Henhayes Knitters session for the over 55s. Enjoy a knit and natter session, whilst raising funds for the Henhayes Centre. All abilities are welcome. In 2019 the Henhayes Knitters raised an amazing £840 for the Centre! To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org. Every Friday from 11.00am at the Henhayes Centre is the new Meet, Greet and Eat group for the over 55s. This consists of many smaller clubs, such as, the chess, bridge, scrabble, craft and book clubs, meeting each week for companionship and camaraderie, followed by a special roast lunch. £11 (members £9.50), includes club of choice and lunch. Tea/ coffee and a biscuit on arrival. Two-course roast lunch, served at 1.00pm, followed by tea/
DONATE YOUR WINTER FUEL PAYMENT
Sale
Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) has launched this year’s Surviving Winter appeal, which encourages people who can afford it to donate some or all of their Winter Fuel Payment to help vulnerable older people in Somerset who are unable to afford to heat their homes to stay warm and well.
CREWKERNE Every third Saturday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Henhayes Centre, there is a table-top sale. £5 per table. Set up from 9.00am. To book a table, email office@ henhayescentre.org. Sale to coincide with the Henhayes Big Breakfast!
As we head into winter, rising energy costs mean more of our older neighbours are forced to choose between heating and eating. This winter will continue to be difficult and worrying for many in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, as many pensioners will need to stay at home to keep themselves safe, and will find themselves cut off from family and friends, facing higher costs to heat their homes while becoming even more isolated.
Social ASHILL Every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Ashill Village Hall, there is Scottish country dancing with a fully qualified teacher. Only £3.00 per session. It’s a great evening, so come along for fun, fitness and friendship. All welcome. For more information, email Anita Wilson at anitaandjim22@gmail.
Every year Surviving Winter helps around 500 elderly people living in Somerset through the cold winter months, thanks to generous local donors who, last year, donated over £150,000 to the appeal. And this year, the first £15,000 of donations will be boosted by an incredible 50% thanks to matched funding from the Field House Trust, meaning your giving makes an even greater impact. If you would like to donate to Surviving Winter, visit www.somersetcf.org.uk/ winter or call 01749 344949. A donation form is also available to download from www.somersetcf.org.uk.
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON
coffee and a chocolate. (Lunch only can also be booked.) To book, email office@ henhayescentre.org. ILMINSTER Every third Thursday from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Ilminster Medical Centre is the Ilminster Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Chat and offer peer support to each person’s needs. Professional and relaxation speakers. Lift to upstairs room. Refreshments from Monks Yard. For more information, contact Alison Birket on 01935 427825/07774 231996 or email a.birket@btinternet.com. MARTOCK On Wednesday 8 December at 2.30pm at Martock Parish Hall, enjoy a friendly festive social with Martock & District u3a. There will be entertainment, raffle, quiz, mulled wine and mince pies. Find out about the thirty-plus hobby, interest and learning groups. Open to all those no longer in full-time employment. For group information, contact Mary Marshall at martocku3agroupsec@gmail.com. For membership information, contact Susie Stakes at martocku3amembership@bmail. com or on 01460 240788. www.u3asites.org. uk/martock. SHERBORNE On Thursday 9 December at 2.30pm at The Digby Hall, the Sherborne and District Gardeners’ Association is holding a monthly meeting. There will be a quiz, a miniature floral arrangement competition (maximum 6”x4” overall) and some festive fare. Visitors £2.00. For more information, call Richard Newcombe on 01935 389375. Every second Tuesday from 11.30am to 1.30pm at Sherborne Library, there are ‘Family and Local History’ sessions with the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society. Share stories and get help with family research – all welcome. For more information, call 01935 812683. Every Thursday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Sherborne Library, there are free one-
REMOVALS & CLEARANCES
Contact us for your free, no obligation quote; Phone: 01935 509057 Freephone: 0800 2425012 Mobile: 07853 275379 Email: enquiries@back2market.com 8
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. to-one sessions ‘Get Online with a Digital Champion’. Book in to get help using a computer or personal device. Booking is essential. To book, call the library directly on 01935 812683. ArtsLink Fizz! Parkinson’s Dance, Art for Memory and Art for Parents are all restarting under new management! All previous participants have been offered a place, the same wonderful tutors will lead the groups and Kate Osman, who managed this project for ArtsLink, is helping with the transition to new management. For further information, contact Kate at kate@dorchesterarts.org.uk. STALBRIDGE Every last Monday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Stalbridge Village Hall is the Stalbridge Cancer & Recovery Support group (SCARS) monthly meeting. SCARS offers friendship, information and support in a caring and confidential environment to cancer sufferers and survivors, their families and friends. There is always a warm, friendly welcome and a cuppa, plus a chance to chat. For more information, call 07961 027089, email contact.scars@gmail.com or visit www.scarscancersupport.co.uk. WINCANTON Every second Monday from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at the Balsam Centre is Wincanton and Bruton Carers Group’s monthly meeting for unpaid carers. Informal chat and socialise around a large group table. Contribution to refreshments. For more information, call 01963 33397 or email janeupsall@balsamcentre.org.uk. YEOVIL On Wednesday 24 November from 10.00am to 12.00 noon at Mudford Rec Café is the first meeting of the Yeovil Carers Support Group. Looking after a partner, friend or family who is ill, elderly, disabled or needs a bit of help? Come along and chat with others who are also recognised as unpaid carers to share laughs, ideas and support in a relaxed atmosphere. Regular professional speakers and signposting. For more information, contact Jacky on 07836 762246. On Thursday 2 and 16 December at 10.30am at Yeovil Rec, off Mudford Road, there is singing for fun. £5 for one person, £7.50 for two or more together. Just turn up! All abilities and all ages welcome. Sessions run in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society. For more information, call 01935 472771 or email thedancingmaster@outlook.com. On Thursday 9 December at 10.00am at The Huddle, Quedam Shopping Precinct, there is singing for fun. £5 for one person, £7.50 for two or more together. Just turn up! All abilities and all ages welcome. Sessions run in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society. For more information, call 01935 472771 or email thedancingmaster@outlook.com. Every Friday at 1.00pm at The Gateway, Yeovil Community Church, there is a Yeovil Good Afternoon Choir session with conductor Chris Grabham. No auditions. No charge for the first rehearsal. Sing for fun – everyone welcome. For more information,
A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to our Conduit readers from all at
BRADFORDS Barton View, Sherborne
visit www.goodafternoonchoir.org or call 01761 472468.
Sport CREWKERNE Every Monday and Thursday from 9.30am to 10.30am at the Henhayes Centre is Physio Fit for the over 55s. A chair-based exercise/physio for all abilities. aimed at those suffering with mobility issues or recovering from health problems. £4 (members £3). To book, email office@henhayescentre.org. Every Tuesday from 2.30pm to 4.00pm at the Henhayes Centre, there are Tai Chi sessions. This is gentle but potent exercise with a calm mind – relax, breathe and move. Open to all ages and abilities, including complete beginners. £7 per session. To book, email blftcsomerset@icloud.com. Every Thursday at the Henhayes Centre, there are two new Yoga classes for the over 55s. From 9.15am to 10.30am is Gentle Yoga, suitable for beginners or those wishing to go at a slower pace. From 10.45am to 12.00 noon is Mixed Ability, a friendly and relaxed class, suitable for all, with or without previous experience. £7.50 (members £5.50). To book, email office@henhayescentre.org. Every Friday from 9.30am to 10.30am at the Henhayes Centre, there is a Keep Fit class for the over 55s. A weekly, fun workout session to get the blood pumping and body moving! £4.50 (members £3.50). To book, email office@henhayescentre.org.
Talk ILMINSTER On Friday 26 November at 8.00pm at the Parish Hall, there is a talk hosted by the South East Area Group of the Somerset Wildlife Trust. Robin Morrison, a local award-winning photographer, will present a richly illustrated talk ‘A Typical Photographic Year in the South-West of England‘ with images through the seasons, showing the wide variety of wildlife and stunning landscapes that can be found in this part of England. Tea and coffee from 7.30pm. Entry £3, non-members £4, children free.
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. On Tuesday 14 December at 7.00pm at The Market House, Café Scientifique Somerset’s talk is entitled ‘Can Science Help Us to Garden Better?’. The speaker is Charles Dowding ‘the guru of nodig gardening’, successful organic farmer, author, educator and broadcaster. Charles explores how plants themselves might teach us about the processes that have occurred under the soil and asks: ‘is this science?’ Doors open 6.30pm. For more information, contact Colleen Bower on 07375 890751 or email tcolleenbower@gmail.com. SHERBORNE On Friday 26 November from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at Sherborne Library, join local author Jackie Winter for a talk about her book, Exploring the Quiet Lanes and Villages of West Dorset, with an accompanying photo presentation. Booking is essential. Book online via Eventbrite or call 01935 812683. On Wednesday 1 December at 3.00pm and 7.00pm at The Digby Hall is a talk ‘Food through the Ages’ by Tasha Marks. The Arts Society Sherborne presents a whistle-stop tour of the history of food as an artistic medium, from Renaissance sugar sculpture to 3D dessert printing and beyond. Tasha demonstrates her enthusiasm for dessert as spectacle with an accompanying display to illustrate and enhance this historic subject. New members and visitors (£7) welcome. www. theartssocietysherborne.org. On Friday 3 December at 7.00pm at The Digby Hall, Sherborne Literary Society presents Max Hastings and his latest book, Operation Pedestal: The Fleet that Battled to Malta, 1942. Max describes this as one of the most extraordinary tales
5-21
DECEMBER
WHAT’S ON
WIN TICKETS TO ED BYRNE If I’m Honest…
Win a pair of tickets to Ed Byrne, performing at 7.30pm on Sunday 16 January 2022 at Westlands Entertainment Venue (Main Hall), Yeovil. Ed Byrne is one of the UK’s finest observational comics and well known for his comedy partnership with Dara Ó Briain. Join Ed as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has ANY traits that are worth passing on to his children. A TV household name, Ed has been seen on pretty much every TV programme in the UK including Mock The Week, Top Gear, Have I Got News For You, The Graham Norton Show, Live At The Apollo (Host), The One Show, The World’s Most Dangerous Roads, Dara & Ed’s Big Adventure, Dara and Ed’s Road
to Mandalay and most recently QI and The Pilgrimage. Tickets: £26 each from www.octagontheatre.co.uk/whats-on/comedy/edbyrne-if-im-honest/7877. To enter, just answer the following question: 'Who is Ed Byrne's best comedy pal? Send answers by Monday 3 Jan with your name and contact details and the subject heading ‘Ed Byrne competition’ to info@ theconduitmagazine.co.uk or post it to the Conduit address on p3. Good luck!
T HE BI SH OP ' S PA LA CE , WEL L S P RES EN TS
CHRISTMAS at the
PALACE 20 2 1
Festive Decorations, Outdoor Illuminations, Music, Theatre, Father Christmas, Food & Drink www.bishopspalace.org.uk
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9
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may
WHAT’S ON
Walk
Free initial consultation
A personal and friendly approach to business that will work for you www.chalmersaccountants.co.uk info@chalmersaccountants.co.uk Offices at Yeovil, Crewkerne & Langport 01460 279000 he has ever recounted. Until the very last hours, no participant on either side could tell what would be the outcome of an epic of wartime suspense and courage. Tickets £10, members £9. Tickets via the Sherborne Literary Society website or Winstone’s Books, Sherborne. www.sherborneliterarysociety. com. Every Thursday during termtime from 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Sherborne Library, there is ‘The Scribes Writing Group’. Come along to share personal work, discuss how to improve and receive inspiration and ideas from others. For more information, call 01935 812683. WINCANTON On Friday 3 December at 7.30pm at Wincanton Memorial Hall, Wincanton & District Gardeners
Association is hosting a talk ‘Bulbs – Chelsea Flower Show’ by Micky Little of Avon Bulbs. Members table top decoration competition. Raffle and refreshments available. Bulbs available to purchase. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 01963 33160. YEOVIL On Friday 3 December at 7.30pm at Holy Trinity Church, Yeovil Archaeological and Local History Society has an interesting talk on ‘The Art of Dowsing’. The speaker is Gwynn Paulett from the Devon Dowsers – Exploring subtle energies in south-west England. Guests £2 at the door. For more information, call 01935 477174 or visit www.yalhs.org.uk or the group’s Facebook page.
MARTOCK On Tuesday 7 December at 11.00am, join in on these new shorter, starter health walks, planned to complement the existing longer health walks (third Friday of the month). To book a place, contact Naomi on 07539 754413 or community.support@martock-pc. gov.uk. Every third Friday at 9.30am at Martock Precinct is the start of the Martock Health Walk. This is a friendly walk lasting about 60 mins led by trained volunteers at a pace suitable to the group. Booking is essential so that contact details can be recorded for the NHS Track and Trace to ensure everyone’s safety. To book a place, contact Maggie 01935 824252 or Pam 01935 826429.
Workshop ILMINSTER On Wednesday 24, 31 November and 8 December from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a ‘Figure Drawing’ class with Heather Ford. Improve drawing skills and discover the joy of drawing from life in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Suitable for beginners as well as those with more experience. Bring along materials or use
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Email us on: marshs@ebmarsh.com | Visit our website: www.ebmarsh.com
10
Heather’s for just £2. £16 per session. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk. On Friday 26 November from 10.00am to 12.30pm or from 1.15pm to 3.45pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a half-day ‘Slow Stitch – Scandi Xmas Decorations’ workshop with Paula Simpson. Come along for a fun session of creating and stitching in the Scandinavian style – create Christmas tree decorations or gifts for friends and family. Explore how simple embroidery stitches can be used to create interesting designs. Cost £20 per session (book for one or both!). For more information and to book, email Paula at hello@paulasimpson. co.uk. www.paulasimpson.co.uk. On Saturday 4 December from 10.00am to 2.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a oneday ‘Nordic Reindeer Textiles’ workshop with textile artist and designer Gary Mills. Gary will guide the student through the processes of making an adorable reindeer. Collected twigs and sticks are used to complement and complete the reindeer. The finished reindeer is 12” (30cm) high. Create a little bit of ‘Scandi-Style’ for the home this winter. Cost £40 plus £10 for materials. To book, email workshopbookingIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk. SOMERTON Every Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm at The Courthouse, Market Place, is a weekly untutored life drawing session. Tea and coffee provided. Please bring along drawing materials. Limited numbers, booking essential. £12 per session. Book online at www. acearts.co.uk/workshop-andevents. Every Wednesday and Friday in November and December from 10.30am to 12.30pm at ACEarts, there are free drop-in ‘Star’ workshops. Come along for some Christmas make and do! These rustic stars are made from waste paper and make great tree decorations, present toppers, etc. As always donations are welcome. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts. co.uk.
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GARDENING
SIX BENEFITS OF A PERGOLA By Liv Sabat
Our pergolas are fantastic, traditional outdoor structures for residential and commercial properties. They set a mood, creating privacy and shade, designate dining areas, and look picturesque in gardens. I thought this would give a good opportunity to remind you about all the good things you can enjoy when you have a pergola in your life! 1. OUTDOOR DINING AND ENTERTAINING Think beyond inviting guests over for a back-garden barbeque in an unsheltered space to dine or relax. With our pergolas, you would be able to offer a defined area to eat, talk and unwind. You can dine in style or relax in ambience and peace; the choice is yours.
2. POOLSIDE LOUNGE A pergola is a perfect way to shield anyone perched by the pool from sun, wind, and rain. If you have an outdoor hot tub, you could use a pergola to create a romantic space to hide from prying eyes and relax. 3. GRACEFUL GARDEN Pergolas and gardens, like bacon and eggs, are simply the perfect mix. They provide the perfect outdoor area for sitting, reading, gazing, and enjoying nature. With the addition of RGB LED strip lighting you can set any mood you want, for any time of day. 4. EXTENSIONS TO THE OUTDOORS Modern, open-style homes that readily allow you to move indoors to outdoors are trending. Continue the natural flow of your home’s layout by adding a
pergola adjacent to an exterior side of your home that leads out to the garden. You can choose the style and colour of your pergola so it aligns with the look and feel of your home. 5. DECK WORTHY Having a deck that is partially covered with a pergola creates a space to retreat from the rain or sun. It also expands the area you are able to utilise as your ideal outdoor space. You can add a barbeque, a hot tub or even just a lounging space to your deck and unlock so many more ways to enjoy your special outdoor space.
6. SMALL HIDDEN GETAWAY Under a pergola, you can achieve a peaceful, relaxing space to lounge, eat, work, enjoy the rain, read or have a drink. Don’t forget to add lights and anything else that will create the cosy feel for you. It doesn’t have to be big or make any kind of statement; it can just be your own peaceful little hideaway from the world and its troubles. I hope everyone has a lovely Christmas and New Year! See you next year, Liv.
LOW MA
ANCE INTEN
DITED ACCR E PROFESSIONAL
INSTALLATION
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11
GARDENING
UP THE GARDEN PATH
By Julie Haylock, Sandhurst Garden Design For those of you that regularly read my column, you will have heard me talk about my lovely mum Margaret. From our day trips to garden shows to gardening in her pyjamas, she was at her happiest when surrounded by flowers. Sadly, in late October, Mum passed away after a short illness so I wanted to take this opportunity to pay tribute to her. Mum inspired my own love of gardening and all things ‘plant,’ and I shall miss her very much. ************ The holly tree is one of the most loved and respected of our native trees, surrounded by superstition, magic, myth, highly sacred, and a symbol of peace and goodwill. The Druids believed that fairies lived in the branches of holly trees so during the harsh winter months they brought holly leaves into their homes to offer the fairies protection, believing they were magical and would protect them from evil and bad luck. Celtic chieftains wore a crown of holly at ceremonies for good luck, they believed the Holly King, depicted as a powerful giant of a man covered in holly leaves and wielding a holly bush as a club, ruled over the year from summer to the winter solstice before being overpowered by the Oak King for the second half of the year. In Christianity, holly symbolizes Christ’s crown of thorns: the crimson berries represented the blood he shed for humankind and being evergreen, holly was a metaphor for life after death. In folklore, people considered it taboo to cut down a holly tree if it formed part of a hedge. They thought that by leaving the tree in place it would obstruct the path
of witches as they ran along the top of hedges. Today there are over two hundred varieties of cultivated holly or Ilex aquifolium which means ‘with pointed leaves’. They make the ideal specimen tree or hedge and provide food for wildlife during the winter months producing all those gorgeous plump berries so loved by the thrush and blackbird. Ilex altaclerensis ‘Golden King’, despite its name, is in fact a female tree, producing berries when a male tree is planted in the vicinity. This traditional variety has large, smooth leathery leaves with golden variegation. This tree can reach 8m tall but can be kept to a more manageable size by trimming in spring. ‘Bacciflava’ is particularly good for forming a hedge. The leaves are smaller so more tolerant of regular clipping making a good dense, gap free hedge. This variety has yellow berries in winter which means they will be eaten last by birds, as they prefer red berries, allowing it to remain colourful well into January. Chestnut leaf holly is an unusual evergreen shrub and will add interest to the winter garden. Discovered in Florence, Italy, this variety has dark green leaves with crimped edges so is a good all-year-round plant, particularly distinctive in winter. Finally, Christmas time would not be complete without those shiny dark green leaves and bright red berries that we use traditionally to decorate our homes, or creatively make into a welcoming door wreath or garland to celebrate the season. Until next time, Season's Greetings.
Sandhurst Garden Design Julie Haylock Garden Designer 20 Sandhurst Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2LG
Tel: 07899 710168 Email: juliesandhurst1@gmail.com www.sandhurstgardendesign.co.uk Contact Julie for garden and border design, planting plans, plant selection advice and garden styling
BBC Gardeners’ World Live Gold Medal Award Taunton Flower Show Gold Medal Award and The Western Daily Press Cup for Best Show Garden
12
THE SNOW GLOBE In the glass snow globe, a winter scene, Fir trees and snowmen look so serene. Once shaken, it all comes to life, Snowflakes flutter and spiral in the light. On the horizon the silhouette of a sleigh, Children so excited, Santa is on his way. Turn the key and Winter Wonderland plays, The snow globe has seen many a Christmas day. On a shelf, pride of place within the lounge, Above the Christmas presents, it can be found. The decorations sparkle, shiny and bright, Christmas lights twinkle into the night. When the family have gone up to bed, And with mince pies, Santa has been fed. Music within the snow globe starts to play, Fire embers in the grate dance and sway. On the mantlepiece the old clock chimes, Heralding hope and peace for this Christmas time. Andrew Haylock
JANUARY DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 10 DECEMBER
Advertisements: MONDAY, 15 DECEMBER
GARDENING
CASTLE GARDENS New Road, Sherborne DT9 5NR Tel: 01935 814633 BRIMSMORE GARDENS Tintinhull Road, Yeovil BA21 3NU Tel: 01935 411000
POUNDBURY GARDENS Peverell Avenue, Poundbury DT1 3RT Tel: 01305 257250 www.thegardensgroup.co.uk
BOXING DAY
By Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group and chairman of the Garden Centre Association
In gardening folklore there are a number of tasks that need to be carried out on Boxing Day. Some of these are relatively recent additions to the list of chores whilst others go back decades or even centuries. Usually, a religious or public holiday is a classic time in folklore for a particular task to be carried out. This is probably because it was easy then to remember to do it and didn’t need to be written down which was particularly useful in days when literacy may not have been as commonplace as it is now. However, in modern times I’m sure that these tasks are used as a legitimate excuse to get out of the house after being cooped up the day before, perhaps to escape from the in-laws! Traditionally, broad bean seeds were planted on Boxing Day. This makes sense as plants established in the old year will get to a stage of growth which makes them resilient to attack from the bean aphid in early spring. There are other dates for bean planting suggested in folklore, such as
the shortest day, Armistice Day or the first opportunity after Bonfire Night, but all make sense horticulturally. The sort of varieties suitable for planting are Aquadulce and The Sutton, and this environmentally sound technique could give weight to your argument in the Boxing Day discussion with the family! Onions too are on the Boxing Day list although there is confusion about whether it should be sets (bulbs) or seed. There is a long-standing rule that onion seed should be planted on the shortest day and then the crop harvested on the longest day so Boxing Day is not far off this. This is especially true for those who are growing onion varieties for vegetable shows, such as the very large Kelsae. Onion sets are available before Christmas and there are varieties especially bred for planting before the winter, known as ‘over wintering sets’ such as
Radar or Senshyu Yellow. If you miss this date, then there are many other varieties available in the new year. Boxing Day is also listed as the day to prune autumn fruiting raspberries. These are the sort that grow their stems from ground level in the spring and then flower and fruit in one year with the fruit ripening in late summer and early autumn. To be fair, the pruning can take place any time after the fruit has been picked but 26 December will do fine. Autumn raspberries include the varieties Polka and Autumn Bliss. Other Boxing Day rituals include a walk around the garden counting the number of plants in flower. This can be really interesting and starts to then incorporate noticing what plants are looking good, perhaps for their foliage interest or stems too. It also acts as a fixed date to notice
what’s happening in one particular year compared to others and may lead to discussions about the changing climate. There may also be harder work to do too. A few years ago, I was working on the tills on Christmas Eve when a gentleman came to pay for a bundle of fifty hawthorn hedging plants which were ‘bare rooted’. This means they are field grown and so don’t have pots which is a good value way of growing hedging plants. The downside is that they need to be planted soon after being purchased and so I asked with tongue in cheek whether this was a Christmas present or not. He told me they were his wife’s Christmas present and that he knew she would need to get them planted either the next day or Boxing Day at the latest! Hopefully he was joking too!
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13
FINANCIAL
BUSINESS
WHY BOTHER WITH A FINANCIAL PLAN? CAN’T I JUST INVEST WISELY?
By Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning Last month I explained some of the steps that people can take in building a financial plan, but you might ask ‘Why should I bother with a financial plan? Can’t I just invest wisely?’ I must admit that I can’t recall one client ever starting the conversation saying: ‘I need a financial plan. Can you help me?’
plan. Why? Because a great plan discovers: • what you want, • when you want it, • how much you need, • what risks you need to take, • what rate of investment return you need,
In the main it is questions such as:
• how much cash to hold,
• ‘I’d like to retire soon but don’t know if I can afford it?’
• what you can safely afford to give away to loved ones.
• ‘How do I get a great return without taking (much) investment risk?’
It takes into account:
• ‘How are my investments doing?’ • ‘I keep getting sent masses of investment paperwork, I don’t know what’s important and what isn’t?’ • ‘I have too much cash, where do I put it?’ • ‘I’d like to invest but I’m worried about the future, times are so volatile and uncertain?’ • ‘How do I know my adviser is doing a great job for me?’ Here’s what I think is important: If you don’t know where you’re going, how do you know when you’ve arrived? At Fort Financial Planning we fervently believe that great advice starts with creating a great financial
• the ups and downs of our uncertain lives, • ill-health, • dying too soon (or too late), • moving now (or later), • long term care, • changing ‘chancellor’ mandates, • and taxation strategies, to list a few. A great financial plan puts you in control of where you are going and sets a date and time of arrival that you can rely on. How do you achieve a successful investment return if you don’t know when to buy or when to sell? We know in principle that you should buy when the market is low and sell when the market is high, however, the statistics say that most of us are panicked into buying through peer and news pressure and end up selling for the same reasons. With a great financial plan in place, you can afford to ignore the pundits, soothsayers, scaremongers and time fillers, and instead you can rely on long-term empirical evidence to guide you. If you want to find out more about how a financial planner can help you then please visit www.ffp.org. uk or contact us on 01935 813322. Happy Christmas from us all at Fort Financial Planning.
14
ARE WE ALL CLUELESS ABOUT PRICE? By Jim Rayner
It’s always entertaining watching a politician being tested on their knowledge of the price of a pint of milk. I don’t recall ever hearing an answer along the lines ‘I’m glad you asked me that because I noticed whole milk in my local supermarket is currently 55p for a pint but of course you can get six pints of semi-skimmed for £1.60.’ Instead we usually get some squirming, a fair bit of evasiveness and a lot of guff about all the work the government is doing (or failing to do) to ensure the British consumer enjoys quality at fair and affordable prices. The truth is our hapless politician is clueless about the price of milk. But are we any better? Test yourself. How much would you expect to pay for Marmite, Cheddar cheese, a drink in your local, a car service or a washing machine? Our brains are simply not built to retain this kind of detailed numerical information. Instead we remember prices in general magnitude terms: cheap, expensive, low or high. It is very similar to how we deal with sensory judgements. If we’re handed two parcels, most of us would be unable to accurately estimate their weights, but have no difficulty in saying which one is heavier. And most of us could tell a top A has a higher pitch than a middle C but struggle, unless we have perfect pitch, to name them. As customers we make value and buying decisions by comparing prices.
In 1983 Huber and Puter carried out the famous Duke University beer experiment. Initially participants were offered a choice between cheap beer priced at $1.80 and premium beer priced at $2.60. The premium beer was bought by 67% and the cheap beer by 33%. Next they introduced a bargain beer selling at just $1.60. Nobody bought it – why risk getting an inferior product just to save $0.20? But worryingly the premium beer now looked comparatively more expensive and the proportion buying it fell from 67% to 53%. Finally they introduced a superpremium beer instead, which was priced at $3.40. Now the cheap beer, that 33% originally bought, looked too cheap and nobody bought it. And although only 10% bought the new super-premium beer, the sales of premium beer went up from 67% to 90%. If you do the maths, introducing the super-premium product increased sales revenue by a remarkable 14.7%. As the experiment shows, the way in which prices are presented and the comparisons they allow us to make strongly influence buying behaviour. If you would like to know more about price psychology, you can download a free copy of my ebook Profitable Pricing – A Guide for Ambitious Business Owners from my website www. james-rayner.co.uk.
STAY ON TOP OF THE NUMBERS PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS SAVE LIVELIHOODS BUSINESS NUMBER EXPERTS WWW.JAMES-RAYNER.CO.UK
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BUSINESS
MISSION CRITICAL -
Future Farming Resilience
Really understanding your Business/Organisational Mission
Free, tailored one to one advice, webinars and business skills development
By Patricia Marks
workshops to help farmers and land managers navigate the changes
Successful organisations and businesses take time out to ensure their mission, vision and strategy connect and work together. Mission statements and leadership visions are often forgotten or lost because over time they disconnect from the operational day-today reality. This might happen for several reasons: leaders conjure up the mission and vision without sufficient thought to if and how the business can achieve the set goals; the business may evolve away from the mission and vision due to success in other areas; the business may simply wander off course due to lack of focus. So, periodically take time to keep your mission, vision and strategy connected and focused. First steps first – have a clear mission: Mission - the business purpose, driven by core values Whether or not you have an existing mission statement, a suggestion for a simple formula for creating a mission statement: follow the format ‘Verb, target, outcome’. For example, ‘Save endangered species from extinction’, ‘Deliver outstanding property management services in south-west UK’, ‘Improve African children's health’, ‘Provide the best quality meat to all customers’ and ‘Reduce UK unemployment’.
Look for disconnects
brought about by the Agricultural Transition.
Get in touch to learn more and register
01458 254 331 In an ideal world – that’s all somersetbusinessagency.org it takes. But in reality, hidden issues are likely to exist which could cause your mission, vision and strategy to disconnect. For instance: your appraisal of required competencies may expose an unachievable vision; or the required stepping stones may highlight that some steps will take longer than planned. Being aware of potential disconnects allows you to make your mission and vision more realistic, and/or focus on problem areas so that disconnects don’t happen. If your business or organisation’s core competencies don’t match up to what’s required to realise the vision – there’s your focus for development. Or, should your business or organisation exhibit clear core competencies in other areas, perhaps you should rethink your key goals? Remember it’s a journey and things change so stay mindful of your core reason for being and revisit as often as you need to, to achieve your goals.
Always ask: • Why do we exist? Then distil the answer into a few choice words that can easily be understood by all of your stakeholders – staff, customers, clients, beneficiaries, supporters, funders, suppliers, board of directors, influencers and the general public. Next comes the vision – what will be done: Vision - the roadmap for where the organisation and its people are heading – direction of travel Aim to express your broad aspirations for the business and define specific time-based goals against which progress can be measured. For instance, expanding one example from above, you may build on a mission to ‘save endangered species’ by setting out which species you intend to save and by when. Choose a time frame (one, three, five, ten years) and then ask: • What are our broad aspirations and specific goals for this period? • In what areas shall we focus our efforts? • Where do we want to go? Finally comes the strategy – how will it be done: Strategy - the main objectives and steps needed to realise the vision Breaking the goals down further to detail specific objectives and steps required to realise the vision. And crucially, demonstrating consideration as to what capabilities, skills and capacities the business will need, and what management systems and control will be necessary. Asking the people within the organisation: • What objectives and steps are required to realise the vision? • What capabilities do we have now, and what capabilities do we need to develop? • Do we have all the resources we need?
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15
INSURANCE
COMPUTERS
UNRAVELLING THE MYSTERY OF INSURANCE
By Dean Holloway
Last month we gave an outline of some of the types of insurance that a business may need to purchase to be able to operate. This month we focus on two more types of insurance that we offer. Professional Indemnity insurance is important traditionally if you are an accountant, IT provider, surveyor, or solicitor, but includes any profession that offers advice, including tradespeople and anyone who provides expertise, skills or advice to clients. It protects you if you give the wrong advice or don’t say something that you should do which causes loss to the recipient. Professional Indemnity insurance covers claims against you for your negligence and pays legal fees and compensation payments. For example, a client loses out financially or professionally because of your work, if you make a mistake in your work or provide bad advice. Another example could be, if you use copyright protected content or sensitive information without permission, sharing confidential or sensitive information without consent, or if you publish a false statement that damages a person's or company's reputation.
is available to private nonbusiness clients with a home of above £500,000 if it needed to be rebuilt and/or if replacing all of your contents would cost more than £100,000. Standard home and contents policies may not offer a pay out that reaches the value of your possessions. High Net Worth Property insurance allows you to insure at a higher level to get all your possessions automatically covered. However, you will need to consider if you also have items which need a special mention on your policy, perhaps you have expensive sports equipment, such as road bikes, that may need to be added as an extra on your insurance or heirlooms that have recently gained in value. If you have a listed property, the rebuild price may be higher than the sale price due to specialist requirements and this would need to be considered. Buying insurance can be confusing and expensive. We are here to guide you through the process and work on your behalf to reduce the cost of your overall purchase.
BACKUP, RESTORE AND RECOVERY
By James Flynn, Milborne Port Computers It’s nearly the time to be merry and eat mince pies, but before we do, I’d like to get serious for a minute! So what’s this all about? Backup is creating a copy of your important data, Restore is getting your data back if you’ve lost it and Recovery is another thing altogether; getting your system back up and running after a disaster. There are two basic methods of backup available to you today; removable devices and online. A removable device is either a USB memory stick or a removable hard disk and the simple difference is the size. A USB stick is probably between 8 and 64 gigabytes of storage (you can get bigger but they are expensive) whereas a removable hard disk would be between 500 gigabytes and 1 terabyte in size. So how much backup space do you need? Most computers we see have between 20 and 80 gigabytes of data made up of some documents, some pictures and some music. You’ll see therefore that a memory stick, whilst useful for a quick copy to take from one computer to another, is not really practical for a proper backup. A removable hard disk is much more suitable, robust and long lasting. Whatever you do, you must never move data from your PC to backup as the whole idea is to have TWO copies of your precious data in case of failure.
Let’s dispel a myth here - don’t ExpectExpect more more fromfrom youryour broker our of solutions You'll need to think about the broker - expect ourfull fullspectrum spectrum of solutions INSURANCE &- expect RISK MANAGEMENT You can rest easy with our regular compliance be worried about how much stuff FOR BUSINESS type of projects you work on, newsletters, articles, action plans and support to Risk Compliance keep you up to date on the latest legal developments Management and whether your clients and as your you company grows. We don’t believe in finding We aren’t just here to help you when you have a cheap business insurance, your regulator or professional claim, all our clients have access to FREE risk resources that will improve efficiency we believe in finding youmanagement the best body ask you to have a and reduce risk within your company whatever stage or working sector of business you are in. Company Needs business insurance and minimum level of cover. This 30 years’ experience and as part of the with you to ensure thatWith youover are Gauntlet Group we offer an unrivalled level of access will help you work out how supported at all stages. to market. We have access to more options and more insurers than most of our competitors, often leading much cover you need. You Communication to a more competitive quote for your business. www.hollowayinsurance.co.uk Proud to Proud tobe beinsuring insuringand andsupporting supporting can usually choose between Insurance local localbusinesses businesses Guidance info@hollowayinsurance.co.uk £50,000 and £5 million. Telephone: 206588 or 07341 663783 Telephone: 0146001460 206588 or 07341 663783 01460 206588 deanholloway@gauntletgroup.com info@hollowayinsurance.co.uk
We can also offer High Net Worth Property insurance. This 16
is stored on your PC in terms of documents, pictures and videos; it won’t affect the speed of your PC one little bit. The speed of your PC is dented by the programs you’ve installed and have running at any one time. Don’t go deleting pictures in the hope that your PC will speed up again, have it cleaned up properly. Once you’ve got your backup device, then it’s simply a matter of copying your data from your PC to your device. You can do this manually, use the Windows Backup system that came on your PC or use any of the many proprietary backup programs. If you are a MAC user, then use the built-in ‘Time Machine’ backup system. If you accidentally lose a file or have a disaster with your PC, then it’s simply a matter of restoring your data from your device using the same method that you used to create the backup. Online backup is a paid-for service (about £48 a year) where your computer uploads all your data to a secure storage server for safe keeping. It automatically updates every day and restoring is simply a matter of downloading your data again. I always recommend this method as its automatic and you don’t have to faff about with sticks or other USB things; furthermore you don’t have to remember to do it! And all that is left for me to say is Merry Christmas and we wish you all a healthy and peaceful New Year!
LEGAL
PROTECTING YOUR CREATIONS: ARE IDEAS TWO A PENNY?
By Brian Levine, Battens Solicitors
With the increasing influx of creative talent to the south-west, it seems like a good moment to consider the sort of issues faced by those who wish to protect and exploit intellectual property, in particular, copyright in the written word, art, music, photography, or film. Brian Levine, the Head of Media, Entertainment, and Intellectual Property at Battens Solicitors reports. In the UK, copyright exists automatically when the expression of an idea is recorded. Proving that can be more complex. Patents, industrial designs and trademarks can be registered, but there is no governmental UK copyright register, unlike the USA. Posting a work to your lawyer or bank, the date stamp being the evidence as to the time of creation, was the old school way.
to someone who then wrote a book and a TV script, the other author has actually put in the time and work to create a copyrightable book and TV script that cannot be a copy of any work produced by the original author, as she never wrote anything. ‘Inspired by’ a verbal, vague idea perhaps, but the law allows inspiration, as many works (some would say all) derive inspiration from what has gone before.
We all have ideas. Legally, an idea, just by itself, is difficult to protect. That idea needs to be written down, drawn, recorded (music) or photographed, made into something tangible that is capable of being ‘copied’. It is not the idea that is technically protected by copyright, but the expression of that idea.
Contrast this to the recent lawsuit filed in the US against Spike Lee and Nate Parker, sued for copyright infringement over the feature film American Skin. In 2017, the Shaw brothers submitted a screenplay to a competition: it didn’t win, but it was circulated to the judges, a group of industry professionals. Two years later, Spike Lee’s film premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Allegedly, the themes and storyline are ‘identical’ and the screenplays bear ‘uncanny’ similarities. The key to whether the 2019 film is adjudged a copy of the 2017 script is how heavily it copies it: one or two similar scenes may not be enough, unless word for word. It has to be a substantial copy, enough for a court to see that the hard work of one author
For example, a writer might say to her agent that she fancies writing a book about an elderly couple who decide to book themselves seats on a rocket to the moon. She never writes it, but three years later the writer sees a book for sale, with an accompanying TV series, called Oldies in Space, created, apparently, by someone she knows is also a client of the agent. Even though the agent may have mentioned the idea
has clearly been copied by another. If the Shaws can prove that, they may be entitled to substantial damages. So - the starting point is to flesh out your ideas into a copyrightable work. You’re
always welcome to talk to us about what happens next. Please contact brian.levine@ battens.co.uk, call 01935 846258 or visit www.battens. co.uk.
Solicitors
Create Innovate Protect
From independent creatives and technology start-ups to global media companies Protect your brand and Intellectual Property assets with the Battens Media, Entertainment and IP team Yeovil | Sherborne | Castle Cary Dorchester | Wareham | Bath 0800 652 8373 | enquiries@battens.co.uk | www.battens.co.uk
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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LEGAL
CLEARING AWAY THE CONFUSION By Catherine Murton, Head of Private Client, Pardoes Solicitors LLP
For lots of people winter brings flu jabs and, no doubt this year, a Covid booster. Sadly, and inevitably, autumn and winter often bring an increase in the death rate and so I thought it might be helpful to provide a little guidance on probate and estate administration in the hope that no one will actually need it! Often the death of a loved one can leave people worrying over the paperwork that needs to be done. In fact, in most cases, there are only three things that need to be attended to with any urgency. Firstly, a funeral director will need to be chosen and instructed. Secondly, the death must be registered with the registrar for the area in
which the individual passed away. Lastly (and this is a bit of an odd one), the house insurer should be advised, particularly if the property will now be empty. There is often confusion about when probate or letters of administration are required and the difference between
If the total value of the deceased’s assets is in excess of the inheritance tax threshold there may be inheritance tax to pay. When this is the case the tax return to HM Revenue and Customs must be made within six months starting from the end of the month in which the deceased died. In all other cases there is no time frame in which an application must be made.
PARDOES FREE LEGAL HELPLINE Questions for the Qualified Tough times require a community willing to help and support one another. Due to the restrictions in place in Somerset (and the nation) we have had to halt our popular free Legal Clinics in the villages/towns dotted around South Somerset. We have endeavoured to continue to help our community by offering other free services such as The Friendly Law Podcast which covers a range of important legal topics, but we would like to offer a further solution: The Pardoes Free Legal Helpline will commence on the 22 February and will run every Monday between 16:00 and 18:00. It will be manned by qualified staff
The Legal Helpline
It is our ambition that dedicating this time to give free legal help will ease some people’s worries and give back to the community of which we have been a proud member for over 100 years. Please book an appointment using our enquiry form at the bottom of our website homepage www.pardoes.co.uk Alternatively, please check our website/social media platforms @PardoesLLP to find out who will be taking calls and their number. We look forward to hearing from you.
18
the two. In reality, they both perform the same function, probate being an application when the deceased left a will and letters of administration for when there is no will. Such an application will be necessary if the deceased owned a house in their sole name or with someone else as tenants in common, if they had stocks and shares, any investment in their sole name over £50,000 or NS&I products over the value of £5,000.
pardoes.co.uk @PardoesLLP
Each individual can leave £325,000 without any inheritance tax liability. This is known as the nil rate band. However, there are substantial additional reliefs available,
depending on the deceased’s personal circumstances. If there was a spouse who predeceased and left everything to the deceased then the nil rate band from the first to die can be transferred, thus allowing the deceased to leave £650,000 without any inheritance tax liability. If there is a house and the deceased’s will leaves everything to direct descendants, there is an additional £175,000 relief available, providing the house is worth more than the sum of the relief. Furthermore, this is also transferable from a predeceased spouse. Potentially, the deceased can leave £1 million tax free. I realise that there is an awful lot of information in one short article, so if you need any help with the administration of an estate or would like a free no-obligation chat I can be contacted on 01935 382689 or, alternatively, at catherine. murton@pardoes.co.uk. I promise a cheerier subject next month!
HISTORY
SPOTLIGHT
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS By Dr Lesley Wray In Anglo Saxon Milborne Port the evergreen holly and ivy that were part of the pagan celebration were used as Christian symbols of eternal life. Other traditions evolved. The kissing-bough, decorated with mistletoe, once sacred to the Druids, hung from a beam and no woman could refuse a kiss if caught under it. The Yule log was put on the hearth on Christmas Eve and burnt throughout the twelve days of Christmas, having the greenery of the decorations thrown on to it on twelfth night to symbolise the end of the festival. By the middle ages the celebrations began at Advent, forty days before Christmas, and Boxing Day was when the rich gave alms to the poor. Only the wealthy could enjoy all these celebrations, food had to be cooked and served and beasts fed. The twelve days of Christmas, from Christmas Eve to the eve of Epiphany were the days on which the lower orders would be allowed to work slightly less, while shops and businesses opened for shorter hours. By Tudor times, Christmas for the
wealthy had become a time for great feasts, gambling, plays, and dances, giving extravagant gifts and generally having a good time.
Reverend Owen and the principal inhabitants of Milborne Port set up a fund to provide the poor with coal and other necessities at low cost.
Puritans had a strong work ethic and they tried to ban Christmas completely. Shops were to stay open, church services were only to be held on a Sunday, and feasting, gambling and drinking were forbidden. However, Christmas was often celebrated in private. Once the monarchy was restored, Christmas celebrations were allowed again, but they would never be as extravagant as before. Most people had to work on Christmas Day, although this might be for shorter hours. The Christmas meal would be as good as a family could afford, and gifts were given, particularly to children. For many poorer families, these gifts might be a piece of fruit, sometimes the only fruit they would get all year, or a homemade toy that would be passed down to each child in the family in turn. The poor often suffered around Christmas as the weather turned cold. In 1819, the
It was the Victorians who introduced many of our Christmas traditions including the decorated tree. In 1871, Boxing Day, Easter Monday, Whit Monday and the first Monday in August were made official bank holidays on which everyone was entitled to a day off with pay, although servants were seldom allowed these holidays, being offered time in lieu when it suited their employers. On Boxing Day 1901, the Milborne Port Town Band took up a position near the weighbridge and played during the morning to entertain the town’s people. Sir Medlycott gave a dance to the people of Milborne Port at Ven, which started at 9pm, included supper, and did not finish until 3am. The world wars of the twentieth century prevented many traditions from continuing. Mummers probably started in Milborne Port in Tudor times,
but the troop disbanded during the First World War. In addition to Father Christmas, characters included a Turkish knight who would stage a fight to represent the crusades, and a doctor who could cure ‘the pip, the pox, the palsy, and the gout’. In 1936 the Milborne Port Women’s Institute organised a Christmas party for the old people of the village and this continued until the early sixties. Today’s tradition in Milborne Port is the Christmas Lights Switch On. The trees along the High Street and the large tree outside the town hall are supplied by the Spirit of Milborne Port and switching on the lights has always been a well supported event, accompanied in previous years by street markets, Father Christmas, and a children’s service in St John’s Church. If you would like to know more about the history of Milborne Port, please contact mphhgroup@gmail.com for information about our meetings and the museum opening times, or visit our website www. milborneporthistory.org.uk.
ADVERTORIAL
SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS Robyn, founder and creative director of Let’s Talk Social (previously Purely Personal Marketing) is over the moon to be awarded the Most Outstanding Marketing Agency in 2021 - Somerset in the SME News, Elite Business Awards. Let’s Talk Social began its life from a kitchen table while Robyn was pregnant with her son. Since its launch in winter 2018, the social media management agency has gone from strength to strength and now has a growing team and a diverse client base. Robyn said, ‘2021 has been particularly tough both professionally and personally, so to receive this award helps to remind me about the journey we are on. We work so hard for our clients and love getting to know their business, so to know that it is valued in this way is so gratifying.’ The social media agency has recently undergone a rebrand and has honed its services to offer copywriting, social media management, ad management, social media training and social media audits to businesses across the UK. www.letstalksocial.co.uk 19
BOOKS
BOOK REVIEW
IN-CAR LISTENING DRIVES UP RATINGS FOR RADIO
This month Winstone’s is featuring two exceptionally beautiful books by illustrator/artists Angela Harding and Susan Ogilvy.
By Steve Haigh, Station Manager, Radio Ninesprings 104.5 FM
Angela Harding illustrated the very memorable covers of Raynor Winn’s books Wild Silence and The Salt Path. The second illustrator is Somerset-based artist Susan Ogilvy who has produced an exquisitely illustrated, one-of-a-kind celebration of the hidden beauty of nature and the ingenuity of birds, Nests.
The big advantage that radio has over other media is that you can listen to it while doing other things, and driving a car is one of those other things.
By Wayne, Winstone’s
A Year Unfolding by Angela Harding | £20 hbck Signed copies available A beautifully illustrated guide to nature through the seasons by much-loved printmaker Angela Harding. The cover of this stunning book has an exclusive triptych printed on the reverse - a perfect collector's item. This stunning work, the first book that is solely dedicated to Angela's art, is a celebration of her beautiful prints, and a glimpse into her detailed and meticulous process. A Year Unfolding is a journey through Angela's year in nature, watching the seasons unfold in front of her from her studio in Rutland, and giving the reader detail into how nature transforms and evolves over the course of the year. It also tells the stories behind some of Angela's most popular images, giving context to Angela's celebrated work, as well as new art created specifically for the book. The beautiful illustrations and evocative imagery of the prose make this the perfect book for nature and art lovers everywhere.
Nests by Susan Ogilvy | £20 hbck Susan Ogilvy started painting bird nests almost by accident. One day, while tidying up her garden after a storm, she found a chaffinch nest - a strange, sodden lump on the grass under a fir tree. She carried it inside and placed it on a newspaper; over the next few hours, as the water drained out of it, the sodden lump blossomed into a mossy jewel. She was amazed, and dropped everything to make a painting of the nest at exact life size. This was the start of an obsession and Ogilvy has since painted more than fifty bird nests from life. Although Nests showcases the specimens she has found near her homes in Somerset and on the Isle of Arran, its subject matter is by no means only British, since these same birds can be found all over Europe, Scandinavia and as far afield as Russia, Turkey and North Africa. This wondrous book is all the more special for its rarity. Few modern books exist specifically on the subject of bird nests; the most recent among the author's reference works was published in 1932. Exquisitely designed and packaged, Nests will be an essential addition to the libraries of all nature lovers.
8, Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset. DTP 3PX 01935 816 128 winstonebooks1@gmail.com www.winstonebooks.co.uk 20
You can’t read a text message or a post on social media when you are driving, but you can listen to the radio and still be safe on the roads. So it came as no real surprise to read in a new survey that the preferred choice of in-car listening for motorists is still broadcast radio. Of the eleven hundred drivers surveyed in the UK, 89% said a radio tuner should be standard equipment in every car; a trend that was consistent across all age groups. A major factor for people when deciding what vehicle to buy was that it could receive broadcast radio, with 78% saying they would be less likely to buy a car that was not equipped with a built-in radio tuner. Other standard audio features like a USB port and Bluetooth were important. But what motorists most wanted in their cars was a built-in tuner. The survey also showed that day-to-day listening to broadcast radio by motorists remains significantly higher than for any other form of audio content. 61% said they listened to broadcast radio ‘frequently’, compared to 21% who listened to online streaming music services and 15% to CDs.
The importance of radio being free-to-air was highlighted by motorists’ concerns about data charges for listening to streamed content. 79% who listened to audio via mobile devices said they were concerned about how much it was costing them. Listening to broadcast radio while at the wheel of a car remains very high, with 89% of motorists saying they listened for more than one hour each week and 76% listening to radio every day. * survey commissioned by Radioplayer and sponsored by The National Association of Broadcasters. On behalf of everyone at Radio Ninesprings, may I wish you a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year. If you’ve yet to tune into Radio Ninesprings please do give the station a try in 2022. Radio Ninesprings – You can’t get more Local! To listen to Radio Ninesprings: Yeovil and South Somerset 104.5 FM Chard/Ilminster 107.6 FM Wincanton/Bruton 103.3 FM To listen online: www.radioninesprings.com Listen on Smart Speakers:
New Local Radio Station say: ‘Alexa enable thefor Radio 83% agreed that radio provides a Ninesprings skill’ Yeovil South Somerset better in-car listening and experience than other types of audio sources. 58% said their primary reason for listening to broadcast radio was to get the latest news and information, followed by 42% who tuned in to hear their favourite songs being played.
R ADIO 104.5 FM
thereafter: ‘Alexa play Radio Ninesprings’ Radio Ninesprings can also be heard on Amazon TV
SPRINGS
ARTS
ARTS
By Julie Locke
VISUAL ART
Until Saturday 27 November from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is an exhibition entitled ‘Neroche’. This exhibition, by a mixed group of artists, includes paintings in acrylic, watercolours and oils, plus etchings and sculptures. Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 4.00pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.
Until Saturday 27 November from 10.00am to 5.30pm at David Simon Contemporary Art Gallery, Castle Cary, there is an exhibition of paintings by Romi Behrens (1939 - 2019). Romi lived in Cornwall and was associated with many eminent St Ives painters. A semi-figurative painter, she found any household object as suitable a subject as the Cornish landscape for exploring her technique. This retrospective exhibition includes work from the 1980s through to the later years of her career. Open: Monday to Saturday (closed on Wednesday and Sunday). For more information, call 01963 359102 or visit www. davidsimoncontemporary.com.
Hannah Lobley Exhibition – ACEarts Until Saturday 4 December from 10.00am at ACEarts, there is an exhibition ‘Wood becomes paper, paper becomes wood’ by Hannah Lobley. This collection of tactile wood and paper bespoke artworks has been created by employing traditional woodworking techniques.
Hannah’s process combines two materials that begin at the same source. The paper is layered back into a solid woodlike material, then each piece is hand-worked, so wood becomes paper becomes wood. Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www. acearts.co.uk. Until Friday 24 December from 10.00am at ACEarts, there is an Artisan Christmas Exhibition. ‘Gifted’ will showcase contemporary craft from the best designer-makers based in the South West. Unique, handmade, locally designed and produced gifts for Christmas. Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www.acearts.co.uk. Until Friday 24 December from 10.00am to 5.00pm at Courthouse Gallery, Somerton, there is an exhibition of authenticated lithographs and prints by Henri Matisse. This exhibition of Matisse lithographs comprises work this innovative modern artist completed during his later years as he developed his artwork. Open: Wednesday to Saturday. www. courthousegallery.uk. Until Monday 3 January from 9.00am to 6.00pm at Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Bruton, there is an exhibition ‘Thoughts Unseen’ by Thomas J Price. The artist’s inaugural exhibition with Hauser & Wirth in Somerset presents two decades of conceptual enquiry spanning film, early sculpture and the artist’s largest figurative bronze to date. His personal approach readdresses historic narratives and inverts a sense of familiarity, distilling signifiers of status to question the mechanisms in place that reinforce our cultural values. From Saturday 27 November to Wednesday 22 December from 9.30am to 5.00pm at The Jerram Gallery, Sherborne, there will be a show of new work from The Small Paintings Group. This
will provide a wonderful variety of choice of subject matter and styles. Open: Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, visit www.jerramgallery.com or call 01935 815261.
The Small Paintings Group Exhibition – The Jerram Gallery From Tuesday 30 November to Thursday 23 December from 9.30am at Ilminster Arts Centre, there is a Christmas Craft
Collection. A huge selection of handmade gifts made by crafts people from the West Country – something everyone! Free entry. All welcome. Open: Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 4.00pm and Saturday 9.30am to 3.00pm (closes at 1.00pm on the final day of the exhibition). For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.themeetinghouse. org.uk. From Saturday 11 to Friday 24 December from 10.00am at ACEarts, there is an exhibition ‘The Celestial Self’ by Lydia Carter. These works have been created using a range of media and working surfaces, and reflect on aspects of gender, intimacy, and the natural sublime. Though these pieces primarily take inspiration from mythology, they offer an insight into human limitation and
In support of
SOMERSTOCK THE PLUS:
GREAT MUSIC ALL DAY Saturday 9th July Somerton Rec 11am - midnight
12 more great bands 2 open air stag es Bars & Food Kids’ Zone Family Entert ainment Silent Disco Stalls Parking & Cam ping
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AND MORE OVER TO THE WEBSITE FOR TICKETS
Early bird tickets available until end Feb
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21 A4quarter.indd 1
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ARTS
the value of mortality. Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm. For further information, call 01458 273008 or visit www. acearts.co.uk.
MUSIC
On Thursday 25 November at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, there’s a ‘Chance to Dance’ event with award-winning Skerryvore. With fiddles, accordions, pipes and whistles, alongside guitar and vocals, underpinned by driving bass, drums and keys, Skerryvore represents the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music. Their six studio albums demonstrate the wide range of influences the individual musicians bring to the mix – a unique fusion of folk, trad, rock, and Americana, with even some jazz! The band’s wide range of influences and talent produce a musically expansive, high-energy set that excites and captivates audiences. Tickets £23. To book, call 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. On Friday 26 November at 7.30pm at Sandford Orcas Village Hall, enjoy an evening of folk music with popular wife and husband duo, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman. To celebrate twenty-five years of making music, the Dartmoor-based couple will revisit and reinterpret songs which span their career. From the early days of folk supergroup Equation through to Personae, the evening promises a whistle-stop tour through their artistic journey to date. Tickets £10, under 16s £6, family £25. Advance online tickets only available via Artsreach. For more information, call 01963 220208. www.artsreach.co.uk. On Friday 26 November at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there’s an evening of swinging mainstream jazz with Nigel Price, Martin Dale and Craig Milverton and his Trio. Nigel is an award-winning guitar player whose playing can be described as anything between soulfully bluesy and absolutely blistering. Martin, one of the busiest and most popular saxophonists in the South West, runs his own quartet and appears regularly as a guest soloist. Craig is a regular performer at London’s Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club; he has played at all the top UK jazz venues and with the best known names in 22
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. the jazz world. The very best of UK jazz! Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail. com or call 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk. From Friday 26 November to Thursday 23 December in Middle Street and Quedam, Yeovil, there will be live music by local musicians. Live music will run on various days throughout this period in the run up to Christmas. A full schedule of who will be playing and when can be seen at www.loveyeovil. com. On Saturday 27 November at 7.30pm at Charlton Horethorne Village Hall, take a journey from the backstreets of Buenos Aires to the salons of Paris with Tango Calor, one of the most exciting tango bands performing in the UK. The trio was started by bandoneon player Mirek Salmon in Bristol in 2016 with jazz pianist and film composer Daan Temmink and Cuban vocal sensation Indira Roman. A rare opportunity to see the bandoneon (Argentine concertina) played live – it’s the true sound of tango. Whatever age, come along to dance or to sit and drink in the atmosphere. Bar available. Limited numbers. Tickets £10. To book, call 01935 814199 or visit www.takeart.org. On Saturday 27 November at 7.30pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, join the Somerton Concert Band for its Festive Concert. Tickets £7, under 16s free! Refreshments in cost of ticket. Doors open 7.00pm. For more information, see the band’s Facebook page. On Saturday 27 November at 8.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, Los Pacaminos play the very best in Tex Mex Border music, from The Texas Tornadoes and Ry Cooder to Los Lobos and even Roy Orbison. The group, featuring Paul Young, Drew Barfield, Mark Pinder, Steve Greetham, Jamie Moses and Melvin Duffy, formed in mid-1992, when pop star Paul Young found himself with some downtime and phoned a few musician friends with the intent of starting a Tex-Mex band. Twenty-five years later and they show no signs of stopping. With an unmatched live reputation, two acclaimed studio albums and two live albums under their belts they continue to explore the music of the South West.
Tickets £20. Book in advance online at www.stur-exchange. co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Thursday 2 December at 7.00pm at The Emporium, Yeovil, FiddleBack and Friends are on stage performing popular covers, classic favourites, originals and foot-stomping folk tunes. Sam on The Fiddle and Ollie Back are joined by Victor Chetcuti, Flic Keirle and Bill Osborn, Miles Peckover, Kimberley Smith, and Paul Chousmer. Delicious homecooked food and bar available. Tickets £8. Advance bookings only, reduced capacity. For more information, visit The Emporium’s Facebook page.
BSO – Music of Reflection On Thursday 2 December at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, join the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra principle string players for ‘Music of Reflection’. This programme of two halves journeys through 450 years of music from JS Bach and Corelli to Arvo Part and Anna Meredith, presented for an audience of all ages. An unmissable performance! Dorset’s rural touring charity Artsreach is partnering once more with the BSO to present a series of ‘On your Doorstep’ recitals by some of its leading musicians. Tickets £10 and £5. Book online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). www.artsreach.co.uk.
Sturminster Newton, enjoy the music of Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly. Roy and Buddy grew up in the same part of Texas and both brought a unique Texas influence to their music, each creating their own individual sound. With Darren Page performing the music of Roy Orbison and Marc Robinson playing the part of Buddy Holly, this two-hour uplifting rock ‘n’ roll show will be full of pure nostalgia with all their hits. Book now and make it a night to remember! Tickets £18.50 and £17.50. Book in advance online at www.stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Friday 3 December at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Grassroots Opera presents ‘Belle Nuit’, an accessible, engaging opera for intimate rural venues. Grassroots Opera, founded by Chloe and Anna Marie, is a new company of young professional singers passionate about bringing opera to rural locations. They present both engaging and accessible operatic productions, sometimes in their original language, using intimate performance settings, with an exciting cast and creative team of emerging young professional artists. Expect a varied evening of arias, duets and ensembles from both wellknown and lesser-known operas. The programme will include pieces by Handel, Mozart, Offenbach, and Verdi. Doors open at 7.00pm, bar available. Tickets £20. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail.com or phone 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.
On Thursday 2 December at 8.00pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, The Wurzels are back on the road! They’ll be performing a career-spanning set consisting of all the hits, stories and jokes from a career lasting more than 50 years. Suitable 14+. Tickets £21 to £26. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil. co.uk. On Friday 3 December at 7.30pm at The Exchange,
John Kirkpatrick
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. On Friday 3 December at 8.00pm at Leigh Village Hall, near Sherborne, The Stanchester Quire is pleased to welcome folk maestro John Kirkpatrick back to the village hall to perform his ‘Carolling and Crumpets’ Christmas Concert. Admission £10. For reservations, either email Bonnie at stanchesterquire1@gmail.com or phone Phil on 07778 119663. On Friday 3 December at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Richard Digance ends another year of touring with a very special Christmas show for grown-ups who still believe. Richard, a BAFTAnominated entertainer and an award-winning composer and songwriter, has released 31 albums, written 14 books and has had millions of visits on YouTube. Off-stage he composes soundtracks and incidental music for TV and movies plus audio CD books, including Bill Bryson’s bestselling audio CD book, The Road to Little Dribbling. An evening of festive merriment and audience participation to celebrate over fifty years of touring up and down the country without the aid of Santa’s magical sleigh! Tickets £16, concessions £15. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. On Saturday 4 December at 7.30pm at The Blessed Virgin Mary Church, East Chinnock, there is a Christmas concert by The Stanchester Quire. Retiring ‘silver+’ collection. On Saturday 4 December at 7.30pm at Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne Chamber Choir performs ‘From Darkness to Light’. A celebration of Advent with Sherborne Chamber Choir, conductor Paul Ellis. In its first concert for two years, the choir is delighted to be returning to the magnificent setting of Sherborne Abbey and to share some wonderful choral music to celebrate Advent and Christmas, from the sixteenth century to the present day, with familiar and new carols to enjoy and discover. Tickets £5 (unreserved), £8 to £16 (reserved), under 18s free. Tickets available online at ww.sherbornechamberchoir.org. uk or call TicketSource on 0333 666 3366. On Saturday 4 December at 7.30pm at The Exchange,
Sturminster Newton, it’s Andy Fairweather Low – on the road again. Andy first came to prominence in the 60s as the lead singer in Amen Corner, with hit songs such as ‘Bend Me Shape Me’, ‘Hello Suzy’ and ‘(If Paradise is) Half as Nice’. Since the early days Andy has gone on to work with Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, Roger Waters and many more, as well as following a solo career. Tickets £22. Book in advance online at www.sturexchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). www. andyfairweatherlow.com. On Monday 6 December at 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, is The Stanchester Quire’s Christmas Concert – a ‘Support the Hall’ event. The Stanchester Quire is a community quire who sing in four-part harmony and will be performing a selection of old village carols and songs from the south-west of England, from the far west of Cornwall to very near home with some of the unique Odcombe carols. There will be plenty of opportunity for audience participation! All proceeds will go towards the ‘Support the Hall’ campaign. Tickets £8, under 12s £5. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. On Friday 10 December at 7.00pm at Holnest Church, near Sherborne, The Stanchester Quire presents ‘Christmas Carols by Candlelight’. Tickets £8, to include mince pie and mulled wine, from Graham on 01963 210632. Early booking advised as numbers are strictly limited. On Friday 10 December at 7.30pm at Langport Arms, Langport, take a journey from the backstreets of Buenos Aires to the salons of Paris with Tango Calor, one of the most exciting tango bands performing in the UK. The trio was started by bandoneon player Mirek Salmon in Bristol in 2016 with jazz pianist and film composer Daan Temmink and Cuban vocal sensation Indira Roman. A rare opportunity to see the bandoneon (Argentine concertina) played live – it’s the true sound of tango. Whatever age, come along to dance or to sit and drink in the atmosphere. Tickets £10. To book, call 07535 665345 or visit www.takeart.org.
On Friday 10 December at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, there’s an evening of jazz with Black Cat Jazz. Listen to jazz in the style heard in the dance halls of New Orleans from the traditional jazz revival period of the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. Black Cat Jazz comprises Steve Graham (trumpet), Tom Wittingham (trombone), Tom Scantlebury (clarinet), Pete Winterhart (drums), Sarah Thatcher (banjo) and Spike Kennedy (bass). Doors open at 7.00pm, bar available. Tickets £18. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail.com or phone 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.
ARTS
Matthews. They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last twenty years. Tickets £19, concessions £18. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. On Saturday 11 December at 8.00pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, join DT8 as they make a good Christmas party great by spreading some festive cheer. DT8 play the kind of music everyone loves to dance to, from funk, soul, disco to current classics! Over 18s only. Tickets £15. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil.co.uk.
DT8
London Festival Opera On Friday 10 and Saturday 11 December at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, London Festival Opera presents ‘Christmas at the Opera’. This performance features some of the greatest arias and ensembles from the operas of Mozart, Rossini, Verdi, Bizet, Puccini, Offenbach and Gilbert & Sullivan. The artists appear in sumptuous period evening dress recreating the atmosphere and grandeur of past times. The programme will be introduced by the baritone Philip BlakeJones. Tickets £30, group price available. Book online at www. stur-exchange.co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Friday 10 and Saturday 11 December at 8.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Christmas starts with St Agnes Fountain. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of favourite Christmas tunes, both original and well known. Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and multi-award-winning duo Chris While and Julie
On Sunday 12 December at 7.00pm at Holy Trinity Church Yeovil, come and enjoy Yeovil Concert Band, under the baton of Jim Bennett, present a Christmas Concert in aid of St. Margaret’s Hospice Care. Tickets £9, under 16s £3, to include mulled wine (or a soft drink) and a mince pie. Tickets available from www.yeovilconcertband. com, 01935 321330 or on the door. On Wednesday 15 December at 1.00pm at St. Michael’s Church, Yeovil, there is a lunchtime Christmas Concert by The Stanchester Quire. For more details, email krisemmett@live. co.uk. On Wednesday 15 December at 2.00pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, Neil Sands and his wonderful cast are back with an afternoon of festive nostalgia in their new hit show ‘Christmas Memories’. Join them for a dazzling sleigh ride of yuletide memories, filled with over sixty all-time favourite Christmas songs and carols that will have the audience singing along from start to finish. With its shimmering stage set, stunning costumes, beautiful Christmas trees and even falling snow, this is the perfect preChristmas treat! Tickets £14 and £12, group price available. Book 23
ARTS
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.
online at www.stur-exchange. co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137).
Tickets £20, advance tickets £15. Box office 01935 422884. www.westlandsyeovil.co.uk.
On Friday 17 December at 7.45pm at the Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne, there’s a Christmas concert performed by Phoenix Brass Band. Celebrate Christmas with mulled wine, mince pies and Crewkerne’s friendly brass band performing a host of Christmas favourites. Doors and bar open at 7.00pm. Tickets £12.50. Booking essential. To book, call 01460 74340. For more information, visit the Henhayes Facebook page.
On Sunday 19 December from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, welcome in the festive season with an array of Christmas classics performed by Wells City Band. Don scarfs, gloves and festive jumpers and join the band as they play outside the chapel at the Bishop’s Palace. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111.
On Friday 17 December at 8.00pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, Kick Ass Brass with Jacqui Hicks and a Nine Man ‘All Star’ line-up will play jazz, soul and blues. Kick Ass Brass is a soul/ funk band with a hot horn section right out in front and the amazing vocal talents of Jacqui Hicks! The band plays much of the Tower of Power repertoire and many of the great soul classics, including hits such as ‘Move On Up’, ‘Mustang Sally’ and ‘Mr Pitiful’. Doors open at 7.00pm, bar available. Tickets £25. To book, email musicbookingsIAC@gmail.com or phone 01460 54973. www. themeetinghouse.org.uk.
PERFORMANCE
On Saturday 18 December at 5.00pm at The Davis Hall, West Camel, come along to a festive Christmas concert by Glastonbury Brass. Doors open at 4.30pm. Bar, refreshments and raffle. Admission £5 on the door. www.glastonburybrass. webnode.com.
On Friday 26 November at 8.00pm at Halstock Village Hall, Kuumba Nia Arts performs ‘Sold’, the story of a woman’s extraordinary journey to overcome the brutality of slavery. Born into slavery in the British colony of Bermuda, Mary Prince went on to become an auto-biographer and champion of freedom. Her book had an electrifying effect on the abolitionist movement helping to free many Africans in bondage. Through theatre, song, music, drumming and dance, this masterpiece of Black British theatre by Kuumba Nia Arts is inspired by the storytelling traditions of the West African griot. Suitable 12+. Tickets £9, under 18s £5, family £22. Book in advance. For more information and to book, visit www.artsreach.co.uk or call 01935 891744.
Kuumba Nia Arts – Sold On Saturday 18 December at 8.00pm at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil, it’s back to the 80s featuring an amazing live performance by From Gold to Rio, celebrating the greatest hits of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Dance the night away to all the best songs as the DJ plays hits from Wham!, Bananrama, Rick Astley, Bronski Beat, Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. Confetti, balloons and favourite tunes from the 80s! Over 18s only. 24
On Saturday 27 November and Sunday 19 December from 7.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, it’s Acoustic Night. Petherton Arts Trust encourages budding artists of all genres to come to The David Hall and perform on a professional stage. Everyone has the opportunity to deliver for 10 to 15 minutes with full PA and lighting. Please prebook a performance slot or seat – don’t walk up on the night. To attend as a performer or audience member, email Chris Watts at folk@chriswatts.org or
call 07715 501157. Suggested donations: performer £1, audience member £2. Please pay on the door.
Bowjangles – Dracula in Space On Friday 3 December at 7.30pm at Chetnole Village Hall, near Sherborne, the award-winning, internationally acclaimed string quartet Bowjangles proudly presents a new sci-fi horror musical comedy ‘Dracula in Space’. Bowjangles brings music, theatre, and comedy together in a way never seen before: they dance whilst they play, they sing whilst they play, they leap, tumble, juggle and joke whilst they play! The intrepid foursome blasts off into outer space to meet a mysterious benefactor, whose proposition seems a little too good to be true. But what happens next, when their lead violinist starts to act a little strangely? Tickets £10. To book, call 01935 872998/873555 or 07966 177789 or book online at www.artsreach.co.uk. From Friday 3 December to Sunday 2 January at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, have fun and laughs with ‘Mother Goose’. Everyone loves Mother Goose but she’s not happy as she wants to be beautiful! It just so happens that the evil, self-obsessed Demon Vanity can offer her everything her heart desires but there’s a price – she must give up the thing she loves the most: her prized goose! Will fame, fortune and beauty change Mother Goose? With hilarious comedy, beautiful sets and costumes, and fantastic music, Mother Goose promises to be the Octagon’s funniest, most spectacular pantomime ever! See website for various performance times. Tickets from £14.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre. co.uk.
On Sunday 5 December at 11.00am at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, there is a relaxed and BSL interpreted performance of ‘Mother Goose’. No flashing merchandise will be permitted at this performance. This performance is specifically designed to welcome people who will benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment, including those with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory communication disorders, or a learning difficulty. It is also designed to be accessible to those with hearing impairments who require British Sign Language interpretation. Tickets £14.50. Box office 01935 422884. www.octagon-theatre. co.uk.
Cinderella 2 or Buttons Bounces Back On Sunday 5 December at 2.00pm and 4.00pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, Tor Theatre presents ‘Cinderella 2 or Buttons Bounces Back’, a 50-minute festive treat for family audiences. Buttons isn’t happy. His best friend Cinderella has run off, got married and gone all … Princessy! And the one person who can help Buttons find a new friend is a Fairy Godmother. Get ready to go on a quest through Pantoland with songs and laughs and thrills aplenty. Tickets £9, child £7.50, family (2+2) £27. To book,
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change. phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. From Monday 6 to Saturday 11 December at 7.30pm at the Sherborne Studio Theatre, Sherborne, the Amateur Players of Sherborne present ‘Witness for the Prosecution’ by Agatha Christie. The author, along with many of her fans, considered ‘Witness for the Prosecution’ to be her best work for the stage. Based on a short story Traitor’s Hands written in 1925, it had a long run in 1953 (the period in which the play is set) at London’s Winter Garden Theatre followed by an equally successful staging in New York, and has been filmed three times. Despite its age, it is still a very ingenious courtroom thriller, retaining its suspense until virtually the last moments. Tickets £10 to £12, students £5, from www.apssherborne.co.uk.
and Tall Tails Theatre present ‘The Tale of the Charming Rat’. Cooper the rat is having a very strange day. Asha has been invited to a party and it’s up to Cooper to get her there on time! Will he pull it off without getting caught by Rats All Folks Exterminators? Join in this epic adventure and help him along the way. This is a 25-minute retelling of the classic Cinderella story by Nick White and Richard Young. Tickets are free and can be booked via Eventbrite. The gallery is located at 7 High Street. For more information, visit @wincantontownfestival.
The Tale of the Charming Rat
On Wednesday 8 December at 7.30pm at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, Living Spit performs ‘The Nativity’. Gold, frankincense and myrrh. A donkey, a camel and a new born lamb. A tiny baby, lying in a makeshift bed in a dilapidated farmyard outbuilding. But enough about what Stu’s bought Howard for Christmas. With the usual mix of silly songs, pitiful puppetry and biblical befuddlement, Living Spit’s ‘Nativity’ promises to be a cornucopia of Christmassy comedy not to be forgotten! (Warning: not for the fainthearted or those of a religious disposition.) Suitable 14+. Tickets £14 and £13. Book online at www.stur-exchange. co.uk or via the box office (01258 475137). On Saturday 11 December at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm at The Greening the eARTh Gallery, Wincanton, Wassail
On Saturday 11 and Sunday 19 December at 11.00am, 12.30pm and 3.00pm at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, get into the festive spirit with this classic Dickens’ tale, ‘A Christmas Carol’, performed by Wells Theatre Company. All performances are included with any general admission ticket. Places are given on a first come first served basis. For more information, visit www. bishopspalace.org.uk or call 01749 988111. On Thursday 16 December at 7.30pm at Lamyatt Village Hall, Shepton Mallet, spend an evening with Ebenezer Scrooge: a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, clutching, covetous, old miser! David Mynne, veteran Cornish actor and a founder member of Kneehigh Theatre, plays Scrooge in this mesmerising one-man performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless, transformative story, A Christmas Carol. Tickets £12 and £6, includes festive nibbles. To book, call 01749 812420. www.takeart.org. On Friday 17 December at 7.00pm at All Saints Hall, Langport, spend an evening
with Ebenezer Scrooge: a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, clutching, covetous, old miser! David Mynne, veteran Cornish actor and a founder member of Kneehigh Theatre, plays Scrooge in this mesmerising one-man performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless, transformative story, A Christmas Carol. Tickets £10 and £7.50, family ticket available. To book, call 07935 352695 or visit www.takeart.org. On Friday 17 December at 7.30pm at the Octagon Auditorium, Yeovil, join The Octagon Choir, Yeovil Youth Theatre, Somerset Graduate Dancers and The Octagon Street Dancers as they present a stunning night of Christmas classics for the audience to enjoy. This concert will be raising money for The Foyer Club and the ‘Name a Seat’ campaign. Tickets £8 to £12. Box office 01935 422884. www. octagon-theatre.co.uk. On Saturday 18 December at 7.30pm at Caryford Community Hall, Castle Cary, spend an evening with Ebenezer Scrooge: a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, clutching, covetous, old miser! David Mynne, veteran Cornish actor and a founder member of Kneehigh Theatre, plays Scrooge in this mesmerising one-man performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless, transformative story, A Christmas Carol. Tickets £12 and £6. To book, call 01963 350980 or visit www.takeart.org. On Friday 31 December at 8.30pm at The David Hall, South Petherton, come along to the New Year’s Eve Celebration Ceilidh with Crooked Furrow – a ‘Support the Hall’ event. Crooked Furrow has been around for many years performing ceilidhs through Devon, Somerset, Dorset and beyond. The band comprises: Derek, the caller, who also plays bass guitar, banjo and guitar; Judy, on fiddle and whistle; and Mark, on the accordion. It’s fun for all ages with a variety of reels, jigs, hornpipes and one or two unmentionables! Early booking essential by Friday 17 December. No tickets available on the night. Tickets £17. To book, phone 01460 240340 or visit www.thedavidhall.org.uk. Every first and third Monday from 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts
ARTS
Centre, come along for a Jazz Jam. These informal sessions generally involve a group of a dozen or so jazz-minded individuals of varying levels of ability. All instruments are welcome, as are vocalists. Give it a go, or just come and listen. £3 per session. For more information, call 01460 54973 or visit www.themeetinghouse. org.uk.
CHILDREN
On Saturday 4 December from 11.00am to 12.00 noon at Sherborne Library, there is a free ‘Christmas Card Making’ session - create festive cards and wrapping paper! Suitable for children aged 4+ and their adults. Booking is essential. To book, visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683. On Saturday 11 December from 11.00am to 12.00 noon at Sherborne Library, there is a free ‘Christmas Decorations’ session – decorate the home with these creations! Suitable for children aged 4+ and their adults. Booking is essential. To book, visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683. On Tuesday 21 December from 11.00am to 11.30am at Sherborne Library, listen to favourite festive stories at ‘Christmas Storytime’. Suitable for children aged 2+. Booking is essential. To book, visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683. Free entry. Every Friday from 10.00am to 10.30am at Sherborne Library, it’s ‘Rhyme Time’ - songs and rhymes for children under 5. Booking is essential so please call 01935 812683.
JANUARY DEADLINES News and Articles: FRIDAY, 10 DECEMBER
Advertisements: MONDAY, 15 DECEMBER
25
MOVIES
MOVIES
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.
AROUND THE TOWNS AND VILLAGES 23 WALKS (12A)
A heart-warming comedy-drama about finding love later in life. Dave (Dave Johns) and Fern (Alison Steadman) meet walking their dogs in a North London park and, over the course of 23 dog walks together, romance begins to blossom. However, Dave and Fern haven’t been completely honest with each another. Will their secrets threaten their future together? SHOWING AT Kingsbury Episcopi on Tuesday 7 December, Community Centre, 7.30pm. Tickets £5. Contact: 07964 294230.
CAPERNAUM (15)
Zain (Zain al-Rafeea), a Lebanese boy, journeys from gutsy, streetwise child to hardened 12-year-old ‘adult’ whilst fleeing his negligent parents. He’s jailed and finally seeks justice in the courtroom when he sues his parents for the ‘crime’ of giving him life. Moving and affecting depiction of life below the poverty line in Beirut, with two astonishing child-lead performances. Capernaum means ‘Chaos’. SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 15 December, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, members’ guests £5, Swan Theatre members £4. www.cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.
DREAM HORSE (PG)
A heart-warming true story of the triumph of the underdog. Dream Alliance is an unlikely racehorse bred by small-town Welsh bartender Jan Vokes. With no money and no experience, Jan persuades her neighbours to chip in their meagre earnings to help raise Dream, in the hopes he can compete with the racing elites. Starring: Toni Collette, Owen Teale and Alan David. SHOWING AT Castle Cary on Wednesday 24 November, Caryford Community Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. Advance tickets from Tessa Gayford on 01963 350132 and The Market House. Odcombe on Monday 6 December, Village Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5 in advance or £6 on the door. Contact: 07934 737104. Yetminster on Tuesday 7 December, Jubilee Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. Advance tickets: Spar Shop. Contact: 07770 806990.
26
LIMBO (PG)
Omar (Amir El-Masry) is a promising young musician. Separated from his Syrian family, he is stuck on a fictional remote Scottish island awaiting the fate of his asylum request. He is burdened with his grandfather’s oud, the king of Arabic music instruments, which he has carried all the way from his homeland. A wry and poignant observation of the refugee experience. SHOWING AT Milborne Port on Friday 17 December, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Advance tickets £5 from Wayne Pullen, Butcher, or £6 on the door. Contact: 01963 251217.
LOVE SARAH (12A)
When Sarah dies in a tragic accident, her dream of opening an artisan bakery in Notting Hill is fulfilled by her daughter Clarissa, her mother Mimi and her best friend Isabella. Enlisting the help of an expert pâtissier, they produce a range of exquisite cakes and pastries that reflect the neighbourhood’s cultural diversity. Starring Celia Imrie, Shannon Tarbet and Bill Paterson. SHOWING AT Hardington Mandeville on Thursday 25 November, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Springfield Stores (01935 862363) or £6 on the door. South Petherton on Friday 17 December, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.
NAE PASARAN (12A)
In a Scottish town in 1974, factory workers refuse to carry out repairs on warplane engines in an act of solidarity against the violent military coup in Chile. Four years pass before the engines, left to rust in the factory yard, mysteriously disappear in the middle of the night. A story of corruption, horror and brutality offset by the actions of a few good men. A powerful and thoughtprovoking film. Beautifully filmed with humour and humility. SHOWING AT Yeovil on Wednesday 8 December, The Swan Theatre, 7.30pm. Members £1, members’ guests £5, Swan Theatre members £4. www.cinematheque.org.uk or 01935 421905.
POSTER BOYS (15)
When dysfunctional adult, Al, agrees to mind his smart-ass 10-year-old nephew for a week, his job and home are placed in jeopardy. In a bold bid to save Al’s job, they steal his mum’s campervan, become best friends and embark on a criss-cross adventure putting up posters all over Ireland. Then things go wrong! How will Al manage to get his life back together! Starring Trevor O’Connell and Ryan Minogue-Lee. SHOWING AT Halstock on Saturday 11 December, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £6.50 from Halstock Shop or on the door. Contact: Tony Hill 01935 892485. West Camel on Friday 26 November, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.
SUPERNOVA (15)
Sam (Colin Firth) and Tusker (Stanley Tucci), a musician and a novelist, partners of twenty years, are travelling across England in their old camper van visiting friends, family and places from their past. Since Tusker was diagnosed with earlyonset dementia two years ago, their time together is the most important thing they have. SHOWING AT West Camel on Friday 17 December, The Davis Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £5 on the door. Contact: 01935 851214.
THE DIVINE ORDER (12A)
It is 1971 in deeply conservative Switzerland, where women are denied the right to vote. Young housewife Nora is bored and wants to get a part-time job but her husband forbids it - and it’s against the law for her to go against his wishes. Nora, a quiet retiring person, is well-liked by everyone, until she decides to organize the women of her village to take action. A serious message presented in a jolly, feel-good comedy. Swiss German with subtitles. SHOWING AT Batcombe on Friday 10 December, Jubilee Hall, 7.45pm. For information about Batcombe Film Society and for guest tickets, call 01749 850307.
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
Events listed are correct as we go to press but we advise checking with organisers before attending any event as the Covid-19 situation may change.
THE FATHER (12A)
Anthony, an ailing, octogenarian Londoner, refuses all assistance from his daughter as he gradually succumbs to dementia. As he tries to make sense of his changing circumstances, he begins to doubt his loved ones, his own mind and even the fabric of his reality. Starring Anthony Hopkins (Oscar-winning performance), Olivia Coleman, and Mark Gatiss. SHOWING AT Hinton St George on Saturday 11 December, Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from Personal Services Store and Dorothy’s Tearoom or £5.50 on the door. Contact: 01460 74959. South Petherton on Friday 26 November, The David Hall, 8.00pm. Tickets £5. To book, call 01460 240340.
THE FRENCH DISPATCH (15)
MOVIES
Music Gigs
All Music Gigs are FREE entry unless mentioned.
NOVEMBER
27 Roadstars, Rock/Pop Covers, The Bell Inn, Yeovil, 9.00pm
Rexes Hollow, Rock/Pop Covers, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.30pm
28 Simple Chaos, Acoustic/Electric Rock/Pop, The Lord Nelson, Norton-sub-Hamdon, 3.30pm
A love letter to journalists set in an outpost of an American newspaper in a fictional twentieth-century French city that brings to life a collection of stories published in The French Dispatch magazine. SHOWING AT Yeovil on Thursday 25 November, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 2.30pm, 7.00pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884. Yeovil on Friday 26 November, Westlands Entertainment Venue, 11.00am, 2.30pm. Tickets £5 to £10. Box office 01935 422884.
DECEMBER
THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON (12A)
The Magic Badgers, Classic Rock, The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet, 8.00pm
Unknown Identity, Covers, White Hart, Sherborne, 9.00pm
A down-on-his-luck crab fisherman embarks on a journey to get a young man with Down syndrome to a professional wrestling school in rural North Carolina and away from the retirement home where he’s lived for the past two and a half years. A feel-good adventure brought to life by outstanding performances. SHOWING AT Ilminster on Saturday 18 December, Warehouse Theatre, 7.45pm. Annual membership £24. Donation requested from members’ guests. Contact: 01460 5228.
3 Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, The Pall Tavern, Yeovil, 9.00pm 4 Lewis & The Sound of the Suburbs, Ska/2-Tone, The Lord Nelson, Norton-sub-Hamdon, 9.00pm Powercut, Acoustic/Electric Rock/Pop, White Hart Inn, Crewkerne, 9.00pm ReD, Rock/Pop, The Arrow, Yeovil, 9.30pm
5 Ross Kirk, Rock Covers, The Lord Nelson, Norton-subHamdon, 3.30pm 10 K'fuffle, Rock/Pop, The Dolphin, Ilminster, 8.00pm
The Dockneys, Rock/Pop Covers, The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet, 8.30pm
11 Bad Edukation, Classic Rock, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.30pm
Unknown Identity, Covers, The Bell Inn, Yeovil, 9.00pm
18 Chill, 60s to 90s Covers, The Brewers Arms, South Petherton, 9.00pm
Unknown Identity, Covers, The Globe Inn, Somerton, 9.15pm
19 Lewis & The Sound of the Suburbs, Ska/2-Tone, The Black Horse, Yeovil, 3.00pm 31 Nevertheless, Rock Covers, The Halfway House, Pitney, 5.30pm Powercut, Rock/Pop, Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Mens Club, 9.30pm
27
MOTORING
No matter how rough and ready the road ahead is, a Jeep from Vale Motors will get you there.
Wincanton Business Park, Saxon Way, Wincanton BA9 9RT
01963 34034
www.fjchalke.co.uk
28
MOTORING
WILL THIS VW BE YOUR BFF? By Tim Saunders, Motoring Correspondent I sit inside the VW Tiguan where even the heating is operated through swiping. Save me. You have to be precise with this stuff otherwise it just won’t work. This is a problem when driving because you really have to focus on this rather than devoting 100 per cent attention to the road. And that is not good. My wife has to deal with it for me. There is such a thing as driving without due care and attention, you know. In Hampshire alone, deaths caused by drivers using mobile phones include a school crossing patrol and a cyclist, the latter happened to be one of my wife’s students. We could all do well to remember that cars are killing machines. The more basic the vehicle the better it is, I believe. Inside the nearly £33,000 Tiguan, I curse how technology continues to take us all over while Ken Dodd sings ‘Happiness, oh happiness’. It’s the first time I’ve actually listened to this song all the way through; I really should have done that before I spoke to him a few years ago. I smile. How true, that success in life should be measured by happiness instead of money. There are some good things about this sports utility vehicle. The wheel base is wide enough to evade the irritating speed humps on some of the local roads. The raised height is helpful and it’s an attractive car
Founder and editor of ‘Travel & motoring magazine’, Tim Saunders is an advanced motorist and journalist. He has always been passionate about motoring and regularly reviews cars from the leading manufacturers.
from the outside helped by the chrome-edged windows although this doesn’t quite match up on the passenger side. There’s a large panoramic glass sunroof; the roof slides open above the front seats and this roof is similar to the one in the £201,000 Bentley Flying Spur. The 7-speed DSG automatic can be driven like a manual, thanks to paddle shifts either side of the steering wheel. But for me this isn’t comparable to a traditional manual; it’s lazy driving that takes away the fun of making those gear changes. This 1.5-litre VW returns 42mpg over the course of the test. The Tiguan’s number plate ends in BFF. Best Friend Forever my daughters reliably inform me. No, unfortunately it is not for me. When all is said and done, I struggle with being told that we must behave in a certain way and then discover that few are actually doing so. This goes for both Covid and the environment. There are petrol engines that are really efficient and surely these are the ones that should be being used in cars now. If it is not possible to have both performance and efficiency then surely manufacturers must make the right choice. ‘I like this car,’ pipes up Harriett (10). ‘It’s comfortable. I like the fact that there are five seats and it looks nice.’ That’s me told.
FACTS AT A GLANCE Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line
Price: £32,825 Engine: 1.5-litre petrol 0 to 60mph: 9.2secs Top speed: 126mph Economy: over 42mpg Power: 150bhp CO2: 165g/km Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz
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29
LIFESTYLE
INSPIRATIONS FOR THE CURIOUS SHOPPER
By Dawn Woodward, The Emporium, Yeovil
Festive greetings to all of our readers! Sending you very best seasonal wishes from all of us at The Emporium! Christmas is certainly in full swing here at The Emporium. The shop is looking beautiful adorned with our gorgeous decorations and the cafe is busy with festive celebrations and general merriment! CAFE: The Emporium Cafe is serving Festive Afternoon Teas right through the Christmas period, both ‘eat in’ or ‘take out’ - it really is the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends, colleagues and family. Book a table using our contact details below and indulge in this amazing festive treat. Our Christmas party menu has been very popular and we still have capacity to host your December get-together. We can offer our delicious 30
menu for groups of 8+ and can accommodate up to 50 people. SHOP: Our 80+ traders are spoiling us with so many wonderful gift ideas, many being handmade, hand-sourced or unique. How lovely to give an unusual gift this year and in doing so support a local, independent business. Come and see our eclectic range of treasures, antiques, vintage, jewellery, art, we have it all! TEAM: Our team members have been a credit to us, all pulling together over this busy period! We’ve been so impressed with the progress many of our Kickstart team members
have made, not least our maintenance team who have been learning techniques for furniture restoration while they have been with us. Douglas (pictured) has really taken to traditional upholstery. It’s been a pleasure to work with such inspiring young people, several of whom are staying on with us and progressing into apprenticeships.
LIVE MUSIC: We’re rounding off the year with one final evening of great music and glorious food. Join us on 2 December for Fiddleback Live and Friends. Look out for details of a full list of events planned for next year and join us for one of the best nights in town.
Contact us as always in the following ways: Phone: 01935 411378 Email: info@theemporiumyeovil.co.uk Website: www.theemporiumyeovil.co.uk Visit: The Emporium, 39 Princes Street, Yeovil, BA20 1EG
JEWELLERS
a Family Run Traditional Independent Jewellers
Jewellery Repairs | Watch Repairs | Commissions | Restringing Clement White | 8 High Street | Yeovil | Somerset | BA20 1RG 01935 423 439 | www.clementwhite.co.uk | shop@clementwhite.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK
A VINTNER’S TALE (ACT 2, SCENE V) Peter Law, Chairman and MD at Wine Wizzard in Castle Cary, continues with his fascinating tales of life in the wine trade…. I started learning French aged four at Miss Primroses’ kindergarten. I must have been a Francophile from a very young age. I still have some French toy cars from the early 1950s when Liverpool-based Dinky had a Paris factory; Citroën’s 2CV, Tube and Traction Avant. Aged about 13, I took Le Figaro on Saturdays (precocious brat!). It was much too difficult. Aged about 14 or 15, my parents sent me to Paris to improve my French – I learned a lot, but not much French! It was about this time that I discovered Brigitte Bardot and thought that if that’s French girls, I am going to learn French and that is part of the reason I became a wine merchant! I have lived in France on and off over the years. It is a very varied and mostly beautiful country. One of its problems is that it has never come to terms with the very darkest problems of WWII. My father, a war-time naval commander, would have been very disappointed if he had known that I had lived there. Sadly, he never met any of the Resistance fighters who befriended me and so admired the Brits. As with many close neighbours, there are always spats and sometime even wars; politics, religion, empires, vanity. Let us hope that common sense prevails – though it is a rather rare and precious commodity these days. Back in the 1970s at The Malmesbury Vintner, in the middle of a ‘lamb war’ with France, I stopped off for a pint in Castle Coombe in Wiltshire. Someone had added graffiti on the contraceptive machine in the gents ‘if the French won’t buy our
32
lamb, don’t buy their letters’! When I lived in France, there was lots of equally goodnatured banter. The summer of 1976 was very hot and an artist friend designed a huge sign outside the shop depicting a tap under which it read ‘save water – drink wine’. That summer I had to send three emergency lorries to France to collect an additional 36,000 bottles of wine! Every night was party night. On a skiing trip to Italy one winter, there was little or no snow so I decided (flash Harry) – when in Rome – la dolce vita – to hire a Ferrari. I ended up with a very old Fiat 500 and went wine tasting. I bought lots of delightful wines which I imported for a few years, before the supplier sold the business (unbeknown to me) to an industrialist and the prices went through the roof and the quality through the floor. I sold it all to the Italian restaurant trade in London. Later that year I was in Ajaccio, Corsica – very bad timing as the French president was also there and it was swarming with heavily armed soldiers, gendarmes and Compagnies Républicaines de Sécurité (CRS), so once again I went wine tasting and found some charming wines. On my buying travels, I like to meet the real indigenous people of the area. I was in a dive bar in the port area of Ajaccio, very crowded, low-ceilinged and full of smoke. There was only one seat left and I asked the white-haired and Zapata-
moustached man if I could join him. There were and probably still are bandits in Corsica and this one really looked like the boss. He almost immediately took a flickknife from his pocket and as it opened he put his hand into another pocket. Oh no! Not a Beretta! It was a tin of sardines which he promptly stabbed and offered me. I returned a couple of evenings later and wished I hadn’t. Once again it was crowded and a man came in with a shovel and wheelbarrow and promptly emptied the lavatory at the far end of the bar! First and last time, I hope. On a more savoury note, Christmas is fast approaching and celebration needed. Whilst writing (mid-November), we are awaiting customs clearance of £30,000 worth of clarets at the bonded warehouse in Essex. We don’t have the storage space in Castle Cary and apart from this, the lorries wouldn’t be able to get in or out. Burgundy is due any day. In addition to our usual selection of fine wines, there is a 20-year-old Bas Armagnac, a Christmas spiced gin, port, sherry, very fine champagne, as you should expect from a vintner with nearly sixty years’ experience. (Problem – getting older!) The Mint is running out of accolades for Linda who has not only made the shop look splendid but is running it splendidly. Chapeau! As they say in France. (Hats off!) We wish everyone a happy, merry Christmas – keep safe, keep well, drink well!
FOOD & DRINK
A TIME FOR A MIX OF TRADITIONS! By Khrishma Preston, The Alternative Indian Growing up in a traditional Hindu family in a small flat in London with my parents working seven days a week, Christmas was never a big event for us. It was enough that my folks would let us keep up the fairy lights we had put up for Diwali. A sock would get Blu-tacked or (to my parents’ dismay) sellotaped to the wall above our beds. Even for Diwali, we never had the culture of exchanging of gifts. We didn’t have a tree or a special meal. Christmas for my parents meant closing at 2pm on Christmas Day, having a meal of curry, rice and chapatis (the standard) and an early night. Boxing Day meant hitting the sales, visiting the likes of British Home Store and Debenhams. New Year’s Day was the only other day of the year my folks closed the business. In 2009 I got to experience my first traditional British Christmas with my to-be husband, Will, and his family. I distinctly remember the build up to it and the excitement that was felt by everyone in their house, discussing presents, creating menus,
putting up the decorations and having a log burning fire in the room. On Christmas Day morning I recall waking up, slightly embarrassed, to my own stuffed stocking that had been snuck in and placed at the end of the bed next to Will’s. From opening all the little presents in bed with a cup of coffee, we made our way downstairs to the tree. They had presents from ‘Santa’ as well as family members. We then sat down to a breakfast of mimosas and scrambled eggs on toast with smoked salmon. I wasn’t a fish person, never having really eaten any of it growing up, thus smoked salmon was off the cards for me at the time. From there, we took a walk down to the local pub in Barkingside, East London, to have Christmas morning drinks with all the other locals and friends. It wasn’t ever something I had done. It was a traditional local pub where everyone knew everyone. That first Christmas with Will and his family is one I will never forget. And now we have expanded our own family, where we can showcase our mixed cultural traditions.
The Sun Rose Mimosa
Mumbai Scrambled Eggs
Serves 1
Serves 2-4
INGREDIENTS
INGREDIENTS
• 1 tsp rose syrup
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp grenadine
• 4 large eggs
• 3 fl oz orange juice
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 3 fl oz champagne (or a dry sparkling wine) • Dried rose petals
METHOD Pour orange juice into a champagne flute, filling it almost half full. Fill the rest of the glass with champagne. Pour a spoonful of grenadine into the glass by drizzling it down the side of the glass. Do the same with the rose syrup. This way you will get that nice, graduated shading. Garnish with a couple of dried rose petals.
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
•
This year is I am hosting Christmas and we have had the exciting news that my brother and girlfriend will be visiting from Dubai. It will be the first time our joint family has been together for just over three years. Covid has meant this Christmas is going to be one of the biggest for many families, and reunions are already planned. I hope the Christmas season is full of cheer to all our readers. With that in mind, here’s a quick easy way to mix up your Christmas morning, with a twist on what is traditional for Will’s family.
2 green or red chillies, sliced lengthwise, deseeded, and finely chopped, or for more of a punch leave the seeds in
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp chili powder or paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ¼ tsp garam masala • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 tsp unsalted butter, divided • Handful chopped coriander leaves, or methi and dill make a good substitute
• 1 cm ginger, minced
METHOD Over a medium-high heat, place a large non-stick frying pan or skillet, and get oil to temperature. In the meantime, crack eggs into a measuring jug, ready to pour into the pan later. Once the oil is glistening, add the onion, stir and cook for a minute to soften. Introduce the tomatoes and stir. Cook until the moisture from the tomatoes has evaporated. Add cumin, garlic, ginger and fresh chillies, and fry off until fragrant. Turn the heat down to low, add chilli powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Stir to make sure it doesn’t start to burn. Add eggs to the pan, use a flat fork to break apart the yolks and lightly scramble. Add salt and a grind of fresh pepper. Increase heat, add butter and further scramble until it’s the consistency you are happy with – everyone like their eggs their own way. Garnish with coriander and serve. Here we serve toasted sourdough with the eggs topped with Scottish wild caught salmon. If you make this for your breakfast, please do share your pictures by tagging us @TheAlternativeindian.
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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FOOD & DRINK
A PASSION FOR GIN!
GIN
By Carl Hankey
@viper_gin
I developed a passion for all things gin whilst working as a chef in London and completing my MSc in Public Health Nutrition. With a keen interest in flavours and science l embarked on a journey learning about gin and how it’s made. A few years later after moving back to Dorset I decided to set up the Avalon Distillery Company to produce quality premium craft spirits. The name Viper was born after preparing our allotment to grow botanicals. After clearing the plot, we discovered a rare sight, an adder (Vipera berus). As a result Viper stuck and Viper Gin began. Recognising that our company is named Avalon which historically means the Isle of Apples and the name of our gin is Viper, we knew we had to use apples in our first gin as one of the botanicals. Like the legendary Avalon, we wanted the apple to be in the gin, not as a dominant botanical but one to seek out and discover. A search for the magical land of Avalon in a way!
All of our handcrafted gins are distilled using copper stills. Currently we have a range of eight gins: Viper London Dry Gin, Viper Mulled Gin, Viper Barrel Aged Gin, Viper Szechuan Peppercorn Gin, Viper Yuzu Gin, Viper Blood Orange and Sage Gin, Viper Cherry Gin, Viper Venom Gin. Our Viper London Dry Gin uses English wheat grain spirit and ten botanicals to produce a beautifully balanced and intriguing gin. This gin is a bright and refreshing take on a London Dry with a clever mix of pine fresh juniper and citrus, a slight hint of crab apple with underlying peppery spice and an enjoyable long and fresh finish: a great cocktail gin and spectacular as a gin and tonic. Viper Gin is a delight with elderflower tonic, a slice or two of crisp green Granny Smith apple and a segment of star anise. As Christmas is fast approaching and with the weather getting colder, be sure to look out for our Christmas gin - Viper Mulled Gin.
@viperlondondrygin
info@viperspirit.co.uk www.viperspirit.co.uk
Created from our Viper London Dry Gin which is infused with fruits and seasonal spices that evoke autumnal spirit and taste of festive delights, it is delicious served ice cold with a mince pie or your favourite cheese. On a cold winter’s day warm some apple juice and add to your serving of mulled gin for a cosy winter tipple. My partner Agnieszka and I will be at Sherborne Festive Shopping Day on 5 December with our gin, products and samples. Pop by to say hello and try some local gin.
TALES FROM THE TRADING POST By Kate Forbes
It’s been a hive of activity here since the middle of September when our first Christmas deliveries started arriving. Pallets, sometimes taller than me (although at 5’3’’ that’s not difficult) brimming over with panettone, stollen, boxes of amazing truffles, nougat, chutney, jam, biscuits – the list is endless. Normally each delivery is met with a sharp intake of breath as we firstly try to work out where it needs to go to be checked off – and then the fun begins with finding a home within the shop. However, for the first year ever we were totally on it! Back in February Andy built our new ‘goods in’ warehouse and then by the time we placed our enthusiastically sizeable Christmas orders in June we knew there was absolutely no way we were ever going to fit all the Christmas stock into the main shop. 34
We invested in two custom-built marquees to house our Christmas produce and have created the most beautiful welcoming festive space for our customers to peruse. We couldn’t have imagined a better reaction to our new ‘shop’ and we have already welcomed thousands of customers through the doors – who have all exclaimed with delight as they walk through the shop into the sparkly new marquee. We have designated an area to our new build-your-own-hamper display. With years of experience, we have found that people love to choose their own hamper produce rather than buying a pre-packed one off the shelf. This year we have the option for all customers just to grab a hamper basket; small, medium or large, stuff it with shredded hamper filling and then set off around the marquee and the shop -
choosing from our massive range of over 6000 tempting products. However, if you find this all too much or you don’t have time to pop in to fill your own, we are always more than happy to offer a personalised hamper service; let us know your budget, your theme if you have one or just few general ideas about the recipient and we will do the rest for you – I cannot lie it is genuinely one of my favourite things to do! From Christmas-themed hampers full of candy canes, Turkish delight, marzipan and puddings to hampers based entirely on that favourite of all Christmas vegetables - the humble Brussel sprout!
We have sprout kimchi, sprout ketchup, pickled sprouts, sproutcoloured socks and a whole array of chocolate sprouts – we really can do anything and everything to put a smile on someone’s face this Christmas! Order now for collection Christmas week or before by emailing hello@ tradingpostfarmshop.co.uk. And on that note – from all of us at The Trading Post Farm Shop – We Wish You a Very Merry Christmas!
We’re recruiting! Due to rapid business growth, Bigham’s is now recruiting more people to join our Friday to Sunday shift (34 hours per week). Here are just some of the reasons our Friday – Sunday Shift might be the perfect fit for you: • A 3 day working week with 4 days off • Starting salary of £12.74 per hour* • An increase to £13.11 per hour* following 3 months training Team members working the weekend shift will also receive all our other Bighams Benefits including:
Free take home meals
Annual bonus Paid breaks
28 days annual leave And much more…..
To find out more or apply to join our team visit www.bighams.com/all-jobs or email your CV to people@bighams.com *including premiums
TRAVEL
MEET YEOVIL’S AUSTRALIA SPECIALISTS
AUSTRALIA
WITH THE SPECIALISTS
By Heather Muir, Manager – Miles Morgan Travel, Yeovil
With the recent news of flights recommencing to Australia we have seen an upturn in demand from customers wanting to plan their visit to this amazing country. Boasting iconic landmarks, unique wildlife, an enviable beach culture, rich history with fabulous food and wine, it’s not surprising that Australia is consistently voted the world’s most desirable destination by UK travellers. Miles Morgan Travel are the south-west and Wales’ leading Australia experts. With an expert in every shop we specialise in tailormaking holidays and tours of every standard and duration whether you're simply looking for a return flight to Sydney or a complicated multi-centre trip with stopovers around the world, you are guaranteed the best possible service and advice. Our position as a specialist ensures we are always first to receive offers and reductions on all types of travel down under. Our reputation as the south-west and Wales’ leading Australia specialists is growing, people are travelling from far and wide to enjoy our free appointment service and first-hand
experience to find out what this diverse and stunning part of the world has to offer. Jon Shillito and Sharon Boon have been our resident Australia specialists in our Yeovil branch for many years. They have built a strong following of regular and loyal customers and are known for their in-depth knowledge of Australia. Jon Shillito comments, ‘I have worked in travel, organising trips to Australia for over thirty years and I am always determined to find the right itinerary for your trip down under. As a trained Aussie specialist, I am inspired by this great country and can help you to get the most out of your trip of a lifetime.’ Sharon Boon says, ‘I have travelled extensively in Australia. One of my favourite trips included visiting Sydney, Brisbane and Frazer Island on an escorted tour; this was a perfect way to experience this part of Australia. The professional and friendly tour guides shared their vast knowledge of this diverse and fascinating country along the way.
Tailor-made holidays | FREE appointment service | Flights, hotels & stopovers | Escorted tours | Cruises | Campervan and car hire | Rail and coach passes | Special experiences & excursions
Call in and see Sharon or Jon today Phone lines open until 10pm
01935 428488
www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk
14-16 Middle Street, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1LY
Everything was seamless right from meet and greet at the airport on arrival right through to the end.’ If you are thinking of going to Australia then please do come and see either Jon or Sharon at 14-16 Middle Street, Yeovil. Call to book a free appointment on 01935 428488, as their experience and knowledge will make all the difference to your forthcoming holiday of a lifetime.
A VISIT TO PORTLAND CASTLE By Tim Saunders, Travel Correspondent It takes the best part of three hours to travel to Portland Castle from our Hampshire home – and it’s only 85 miles away. But it is well worth the trip. This 450-year-old Portland stone structure has much history to tell. Overlooking Portland harbour it was built by Henry VIII in the 1540s to protect against the French and Spanish invasion. We marvel at the Tudor craftsmanship of this, one of Henry’s finest gun forts. The main point of this prominent structure was protection and with this in mind canons are situated on the roof and to the side. We stroll around with a helpful and informative audio guide, which even the children can operate easily. There’s a huge amount of information to take on board and it would be necessary to revisit a number of times for me to remember just some of the facts. It is interesting to note that the windows are so narrow to prevent enemy fire from getting through. It would certainly be tough to penetrate. English Heritage has sympathetically restored this castle and presented the chambers as they would have been used. The kitchen is the most obvious room and it does get you thinking about the challenges of feeding the soldiers. 36
At least being by the coast meant fish was in plentiful supply.
play hide and seek and perform cartwheels while Caroline and I have a few minutes.
A local vicar ended up living here and restoring it, and the castle was used in the first and second world wars. Later the head of the local naval base lived here and then it was handed over to the nation. We all marvel at this grand building, and how difficult it would be to build today let alone 450 years ago. It’s a harsh landscape in which to build such a fortress. As we arrive at the top, a helicopter at the former naval base is preparing to take off, making a huge racket.
Afterwards we stroll through the car park to a little private beach where the children play in the sand. No trip to Portland can be made without visiting Portland Bill and on the way back we spot a park that the children insist on visiting.
The children discover an exhibit that shows you how to load a cannon correctly and if you get it right a light flashes, at which point you can push a button and it fires. Henry is in his element; he can’t press the switch enough. He returns two or three times throughout our visit! There are some other interactive exhibits including games of the time and create your own stain glass window. After our trip around the castle we relax in the grounds where there is a very peaceful garden and a large sweeping stone bench that could easily accommodate fifty bottoms. The children
For more information, visit www.englishheritage.org.uk/visit/places/portland-castle/.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
REDUCING THE STRESS OF CHRISTMAS By Amanda Whitlock, Total Wellbeing Matters While Christmas is known as ‘the season to be jolly’, it’s often a significant source of stress. This year more people are saying they are feeling overwhelmed as they feel pressure to make it extra special to make up for the effects of the pandemic. In addition, a lack of time and money, worry about debt, and the pressure of buying the perfect present contribute to more stress. This leads to the Christmas holidays feeling like a long ‘to do’ list rather than a time to relax. So, try these Christmas stress-busting strategies to help make Christmas feel more fun and less of a chore. Limit spending and set a budget Being organised and realistic about your budget ensures you do not overspend. Have a conversation with your family and friends as to what the spending limit is. You might find they welcome the chance to cut their spending too! If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that relationships with friends and family are much more important than material objects. Manage expectations Everyone has an idea of the perfect Christmas, but reality often falls short of this vision. Despite well laid plans, no event ever runs effortlessly! Rather than accumulating stress along the way from any mishaps, view these as opportunities to exercise flexibility and resilience. Don’t allow the dinner being thirty minutes late, spilling food on the kitchen floor, or undercooking the sprouts to ruin your day. Just take a deep breath, laugh and move on. Don’t put yourself under pressure trying to cook a meal as detailed by
a celebrity chef with over 500 ingredients. Essentially, Christmas dinner is a Sunday roast – so cook what you and your family will enjoy. Take some time out You do not have to manage Christmas alone. Learn to delegate and ask for help in achieving some of your tasks. This will free up time for you to destress. Find something relaxing, such as reading a book, watching a Christmas film, listening to music, or having a long bath. Go for a walk One solution for holiday stress could be as simple as taking a walk. Regular exercise helps to decrease tension and boost and stabilise mood. Furthermore, exercising produces endorphins – natural painkilling chemicals that are released in the brain – that improve your ability to sleep and reduce stress. Convince the rest of the family to leave the comfort of the settee and come along on the walk with you, making the walk more fun.
OPEN HOUSE S at u r d a y 4 t h - T h u r s d a y 9 t h D e c e m b e r 11am - 4pm
Yo u a r e i n v i t e d t o v i s i t o u r b e a u t i f u l C a r e H o m e . After an extensive refurbishment, Elliscombe House is now providing residential and nursing care for both respite and long term residents Please do join us for a tour of the home and some seasonal refreshment Appointments encouraged Please call 01963 32746 or email info@elliscombehouse.com E l l i s c o m b e Ho u s e , H ig h e r Holto n , W i n c a n to n , S o m e r s e t, B A 9 8 E A
Find some joy As you decorate the tree or bake mince pies, forget all the items left on your to-do list and give yourself permission to have fun. Laughter goes a long way in the fight against stress. It lightens your mood, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and also releases endorphins. Laughter also boosts circulation, helps muscles relax, and lessens the physical symptoms that are associated with stress. Merry Christmas everyone!
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
37
HEALTH & WELLBEING
Inner Sparkle
FIND YOUR INNER SPARKLE!
Holistic Life Coach
By Tracy Frost
Christmas is a very appropriate time of the year to introduce you to Inner Sparkle, an energy that I have harnessed to empower people to rediscover their own Inner Sparkle. When we are born we are full of inner sparkle, wonder and awe – adults are drawn to babies like a moth to a flame. When we see a baby with all it newness and potential it reminds us of our very own inner sparkle and potential. Yet our own spirit may have been dulled, hidden or even suppressed due to our everyday lives. Can we find it again? Absolutely, and this is where I can help you in a variety of ways. Working out of a room at The Ministry of Hair salon on Long Street in Sherborne, I am an essential oil enthusiast, using them in every part of my daily life and business.
Essential Oils AromaTouch is a treatment which helps with the stresses of daily life, supporting your immune function and any inflammatory response. It is a gentle but powerful experience in a safe, relaxing and held space. Holistic Life Coaching helps you find out what needs to be addressed in your life, how to find yourself again and explore a more beneficial way forward. It’s a safe space to explore your options using a variety of modalities, one size does not fit all and we work out your personal learning style for maximum impact. Reiki is a form of energy healing, either hands on or hands off, and is a very subtle way to work with your energy.
Reiki Here are a couple of tips to cope with the stress and pressure Christmas can bring. We all love to give and many of us stretch ourselves a little too far at Christmas, so have a limit on what you spend per person. Think about how you feel when you receive a gift, are you concerned about the cost or grateful that someone has taken the time and effort to think about you? With this in mind think about different ways you can gift. Why not give a voucher for your time? This could mean cooking a meal for someone, a day at the beach, doing gardening or decorating? There are so many different ways of giving and making someone feel good that don’t cost the earth.
A Nursing Home combining luxury and Edwardian charm! Elliscombe House, which stood empty for several years, has now reopened as a luxury nursing home which combines every modern luxury with the original Edwardian charm of this country house. The entire home is full of beautiful complementary hues and bright splashes of vibrant colour, beginning in the grand reception area where the lofty space has been imbued with warmth and character using Farrow and Ball’s ‘Hay’ shade. The full-length staircase window has been uncovered, and a stunning electric blind created using fabric from owner/director Catherine Trotman’s grandparent’s home. A dramatic chandelier and brass wall lights complete the transformation of this previously dark space. A nondescript passageway just off the reception area has also taken on a life of its own, transformed into a bar area for residents. To retain the Edwardian charm of the house, Catherine bought a number of pieces of antique furniture, mirrors and artwork, including beautiful sideboards 38
Tracy Frost
Aroma Touch
07401 520794 tj.frost@live.com @tjInnerSparkle www.inner-sparkle.com Remember to BREATHE. We should use our breath to help slow our heart rate, which in turn will help to dissolve the edges of our anxiety. It’s so easy when you are caught in a hyper-anxious moment to allow it to escalate, so when you first start to feel the heightened emotions, take a really long, deep, slow breath. This allows you to come back into the body and out of your head where anxious feelings reside. Breathe deeply and slowly three times, stop and see how you feel; you may need to do the three breaths again before you can feel a little calmer. Wishing you a calm and peaceful Christmas, much love, Tracy.
ADVERTORIAL
in the dining room and an Edwardian ‘conversational sofa’, which has been refurbished locally in Bruton. The glorious reception rooms, recently used as bedrooms and bathrooms, have been restored to their former glory. Two bow-fronted rooms have become an elegant library and dining room, with original fireplaces retained and antique items blended with contemporary furniture, lighting and artwork. The bedrooms on both the ground and first floor have been reconfigured, with private conservatories added to two rooms. Part of the charm of the home is that no two bedrooms are the same, and Catherine assessed each room separately before selecting furnishings and decor to best reflect the space available. Original fireplaces have also been retained. Neutral bases are teamed with brighter soft furnishings and accessories, sourced using Catherine’s contacts in India. The stunning block-printed quilts, cushions
and lampshades not only add splashes of colour but also originality, as they will not be seen elsewhere! Every possible detail has been thought of, down to the decor in the bathrooms. Here traditional elements such as tongue and groove panelling and wallpaper from Morris & Co and Colefax & Fowler have been combined with a modern air-spa system and calming lights for a truly luxurious ‘spa’ experience. As Elliscombe House prepares for its first festive season, it is wonderful to see a grand old property brought back to life in such a stylish way. Visit www.elliscombehouse.com or telephone 01963 32746.
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
Why work in Leisure?
By Samantha Welch, Centre Manager
Many people view working in a sports centre or a gym as a stepping stone to a ‘proper’ job, but you can forge a fantastic career in leisure. There are many opportunities open to you; you just need to know where to look.
If you like working with people and enjoy an active lifestyle, have a passion for helping people and take pleasure in interacting with all walks of life, then why not consider a job in the leisure industry. There are many advantages including shift work (the freedom to have mornings or afternoons off) and working with a young, friendly and passionate team. The chance to work in a relaxed, professional environment where you can pursue your passion for sports for free! There are always great opportunities to enhance your qualifications in a variety of fields, you just need to show you’re willing. The careers paths are endless. If you have a passion for helping people and love exercise, begin your career as an apprentice fitness instructor. Work through the ranks becoming a fitness instructor and group exercise instructor, working towards becoming a personal trainer and then onto a strength and conditioning coach or specialise in rehabilitation or exercise referrals.
If you love working with children, consider becoming a holiday activity leader or swim assistant working on up to swim teacher or working through the coaching qualifications in your particular sport. Alternatively move into sports development and develop your organisational and planning skills to run your own activities. If you enjoy dealing with people, have a great sense of customer service and take pleasure from making everyone’s experience at your work place the best it can be, then consider a move into management. You can hone your planning, personnel and diplomacy skills to further your event organising and problem solving. Oxley Sports Centre is always looking for new recruits with great personalities, fantastic work ethic and a great sense of humour. To check us out, visit www.oxleysc.com or pop into the centre to see what we’re all about. We look forward to meeting you.
Looking for an alternative gift this Christmas? Gift vouchers available
osc_info@sherborne.com
www.oxleysc.com
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
PET HEALTH
Festive Fitness Frenzy!
By James Cattigan, Sherborne Sports Centre Manager Season’s Greetings!
and support Sherborne’s fantastic local businesse Stre mo you jour com
And Cen Hea
2022 has got to be the year we re-find our love of sporting events, get that summer bod back, and take care of our mental and physical well-being once more. And we are here to help! As we enter the season of goodwill, we invite new and existing members to start their new year health and fitness goals early, by offering 25% off pay-as-you-go activities and monthly packages bought in the month of December* – and remember, you are not tied into to any contract! This includes:
• Gym sessions
• Swimming
• AquaFit
• SwimFit
• Yoga
• Indoor Cycling
• Senior Active
• And more to come
Visit our website www.sherbornesports.co.uk, find us on Facebook and Instagram or give us a call on 01935 810548 for more information. *subject to conditions
By Peter Luscombe BVSc, PgC SAD, MRCVS
We encounter a predictable range of issues over the Christmas period. I would like to highlight some seasonal problems we regularly see in practice. DIGESTIVE UPSETS Probably the most common problem encountered by our pets in the aftermath of the Christmas period is vomiting and diarrhoea. This usually results from eating strange rich foods or finding discarded leftovers, so be careful to dispose of waste food safely. Most digestive upsets are not serious and can be treated simply by fasting the animal for 4-6 hours but allowing free access to water 40
Day on Sunday 5 December. Come and support Sherborne’s *subject to conditions fantastic local businesses and visit our stall, located at the bottom of Cheap Street, where we will be selling centre memberships, monthly packages, and Christmas vouchers to give to your friends and family, to start their new year fitness journey. We will also have some games and a fitness competition for you to get stuck into! And finally, from all the team at Sherborne Sports Centre, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year.
THINK OF YOUR PETS AT CHRISTMAS As you plan for Christmas, please think about your pets. Any changes in routine, noisy environments and visitors can be a stressful for them. Make sure your pets have a safe place to go and hide if they need it. Contact us for more advice if needed.
Visit our website www.sherbornesports.co.uk, fin 01935 810548 for more information. We are excited to be sponsoring the Sherborne Festive Shopping
to avoid dehydration (avoid milk). Then feed your pet small meals of a plain digestible food, such as chicken and rice for a couple of days before slowly reintroducing the normal diet. If your pet is subdued, passing blood or not responding quickly to simple treatment, contact your veterinary surgeon for further advice and treatment. INJURIES Christmas trees, decorations, glass baubles, tinsel and electrical flexes are all extremely exciting to our pets and can lead to some surprising and in some cases potentially serious injury. Remember, do not leave your pets unsupervised. FOREIGN BODIES Many animals love to chew on things, and if swallowed this can result in a ‘foreign body’. Any solid object small enough to be swallowed can get stuck, and
142 Preston Road, Yeovil Somerset BA20 2EE Lower Acreman Street Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3EX www.newtonclarkevet.com
with many new and interesting things around at Christmas the temptation to chew for some animals can be irresistible. Over the years I have been amazed by the variety of objects removed from animals, ranging from bones, toys and wrapping paper to socks and underwear! Objects such as string and cotton are especially dangerous if swallowed, and at this time of year string and nets used when cooking meat are a particular danger. Gastrointestinal obstructions can be lifethreatening and may require emergency surgery to correct. POISONING Many apparently harmless substances can be toxic to dogs and cats. Their body chemistry is different to ours and being smaller they are less tolerant of toxic substances. Festive plants, such as poinsettia, holly berries and mistletoe, can be poisonous. Other notable seasonal hazards
are grapes and raisins (remember the Christmas cake!), batteries, chocolate (especially dark chocolate) and alcohol. FLEAS You might be surprised by how many flea problems we see in January after the heating has been turned up. Continue with your routine flea prevention through the winter and seek veterinary advice if you are encountering problems. Hopefully by being aware of the hazards and thinking ahead, your pets will remain safe and happy throughout the festivities. Ensure you know when your practice is open over the Christmas and new year period and what their emergency arrangements are when closed. Wishing you all and your pets a very merry Christmas!
CARE
REFLECTIONS ON CHRISTMAS By Tracey Warren, Stoodley and Son Christmas – it’s that time of year again and it seems to have come around quicker than ever. As soon as Halloween ends, the Christmas songs start in the shops: Noddy Holder belting out ‘It’s Christmas’ and Chris Rea still ‘Driving Home’. A mince pie for Santa, a carrot for Rudolf and hiding the elf on a shelf have all become traditions involved in the run-up to Christmas. Carol singers, chestnuts roasting on an open fire or in my house satsumas and a box of Elizabeth Shaw Mint Crisps herald the arrival of December. The trials of buying a Christmas tree too tall for the room, and finally decorating it only to find five minutes later the cats have de-baubled it. One of them is tangled in the tinsel, and the other three are sound asleep after tearing open all the beautifully wrapped presents, finding theirs and gorging on a months’ worth of cat treats. As years pass, more houses are decorated with beautiful lights around the garden, on the roofs and guttering, and Christmas traditions have changed from their Victorian predecessors. Even Santa has had a makeover – Victorian versions of him painted a picture of a thin man, or an elf and there were even scary Santas! In 1931, Coca Cola commissioned illustrator Haddon Sundblom to paint Santa for Christmas advertisements. He painted a Santa as a warm, happy character with human features, including rosy cheeks, a white beard, twinkling eyes and laughter lines. A red suit, black belt and boots spreading Christmas cheer. Sundblom drew inspiration from an 1822 poem by Clement Clark Moore called ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’:
His eyes – how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow It’s also the time of year that children are told that ‘you’d better be good or Santa won’t give you any presents’. However, in Alpine folklore children that misbehaved were visited by Krampus.
– the good and evil, and very much symbolising the Christian teachings of being rewarded if you were good and being punished if you were bad. Christmas is also a time of reflection to think about those that have passed during the year, and to pause and raise a glass in their memory. It has been another challenging year, but as we start
2022 let us also thank our family, friends, neighbours and the community that have supported us through it. However you choose to celebrate this festive period, on behalf of all of us at Stoodley and Son Funeral Directors we wish you all a very peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year … now where did I put that box of Mint Crisps?
Krampus was a horned anthropomorphic figure who tormented badly behaved children. On 5 December, Krampus and St Nicholas visited houses whilst the occupants were asleep. St Nicholas gave well-behaved children gifts of dried fruit, oranges, walnuts and chocolates. Krampus, however, punished the badly behaved children by beating them with birch rods. The festival of St Nicholas in Europe predates Christian times, although St Nic became popular in Germany in around the eleventh century. The feast of St Nicholas is the only celebration dedicated to children during the winter. In Germany in the sixteenth century, masked devils and practical jokes started to appear in medieval church plays, and Krampus was often portrayed as a devil-like creature. In the seventeenth century, Krampus had been incorporated into the winter feast with St Nicholas 41
WALKING
WALKING THROUGH WINTER
The Nature Spot
It’s easy to get out when we’re having sunny autumn moments. Those days that seem to highlight and amplify the golden tones as the trees give us their last hurrah before getting naked. It’s a little damper but not too sticky and, whether you like misty mornings or the midday sunshine, it’s relatively temperate still.
Goldcrests are resident birds in the UK and are joined at this time of the year by large numbers on migration from Scandinavia.
By Rachel Woods
I was rudely reminded of the onset of winter by some frosts a couple of days before I wrote this. During my usual 5.30am constitutional around the garden with the dogs, the sudden drop in temperature was a stark way to wake up. In some ways, I look forward to getting my woolly hats out, pairing my gloves (or best matching at least) and finally putting summer clothing to bed until next year. There is some preparation to be done – restoring the waterproof-ness to my outer layers, finding where I stored thermal under-garments and making sure my boots and warm socks are in good order. What’s more pivotal is the shift in mindset I find necessary to avoid procrastination and resist the temptation to hunker down and hibernate, to keep my dogs safe, prepare for washing paws in case of salted pavements and roads and to allow a bit more time for pretty much everything. Winter walks require a bit more prep, clothing being just one element. To drive anywhere may take significantly longer, defrosting and demisting and taking more care on the move.
I’ve managed to get out during the most spectacular hoar frosts, hedges twinkling and twigs encapsulated in clear ice. Parks tend to be well kept and accessible in all seasons. We all know the mud can be tricky but on higher drier ground, there is still great wanderings to be had. There is a call to be made when it comes to safety. Know your limits, mine is reached when wind blows the rain sideways – that’s a time to stay indoors, save for the quickest of dog walks. However, if it’s reasonable to get outside, the rewards for mind and body are worth it. The neurological benefits of nature are not hampered by the cold or wet. Let’s face it, coming back to a warm house, a comforting bowl of soup or a hot chocolate feels much more special when contrasted by the cold.
The goldcrest and firecrest are tiny, and are Europe’s smallest birds. An adult goldcrest typically weighs little more than 5 grams, which is the same as a 20p coin.
The firecrest is a much rarer bird and found predominantly in southern England; as with the goldcrest, numbers increase as migrant firecrest arrive across the North Sea. However, to spot one is always going to be a special moment to treasure. At this time of the year, Nine Springs Country Park in Yeovil provides an excellent opportunity to see the goldcrest that are there in good numbers and you may also be fortunate enough to see a firecrest. These were recently photographed by local wildlife photographer Colin Lawrence. Whilst both can look similar at first glance, the rare firecrest is quite distinctive with its black eye stripe and broad white eyebrow stripe. Colin’s tip is to concentrate on ivy-clad trees and particularly the holly and coniferous trees as this is their preferred habitat for seeking out minute spiders and insects.
Where do you most like to walk in the winter and what’s your go-to warm-up food or drink? Let me know at rachel@coachinnature. co.uk.
Too much effort? I think not.
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Bargain Hunters Corner
IAN CROSSLAND
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Tel: 01935 411813 Mob: 07811 070 498
• Interior and exterior decorating
• Carpentry and small cabinet work • Restoration of timber windows
• Making/restoring leaded windows
If an item/items are valued at more than £200 there will be a £6 charge. Wanted adverts are also charged at £6.
• Hanging doors
• Fitting fences and gates • Exterior lime mortaring
01935 808052
With over 20 years’ experience for a friendly reliable service please give me a call
WANTED Dave buys all types of tools. Tel: 01935 428975
Dry Stone Walling and Paving All types of stone walling undertaken www.yenstonewalling.co.uk
01963 371123 Patrick Houchen - DSWA member
Professional & reliable service
GUNS WANTED FOR CASH Any Condition. SOS to all air rifles and pistols any maker or model. We collect in any area. Top prices paid in cash
07970 742471
WIN
FREE ADVERTISING FOR YOUR BUSINESS IN 2022! Our Christmas Gift to You
Any business not having advertised for the past 12 months in The Conduit and booking a series (three or more) of adverts for 2022 will be entered into a draw and the winner will receive a year’s free advertising for the sizes booked. That means a potential saving of £3,600 (based on a standard full colour page rate) All bookings must be taken by 31 December 2021. Call 01935 424724 or email info@ theconduitmagazine.co.uk NOW!
Fujifilm X10 digital camera with superb Fuji aspheric 28-112 zoom lens and viewfinder, complete with leather case, battery charger and instruction manual. New price with case £550; unused and unwanted gift £65 Tel: 01935 815887 (Sherborne) Zeiss Jenoptem binoculars with superb 10x50 multi-coated optics, good condition in pigskin leather case £65 Tel: 01935 815887 (Sherborne) Black & Decker bench grinder with powerful ½hp motor with new grindstone and wire brush £35 Tel: 01935 815887 (Sherborne) Cream leather storage pouffe £25 White/chrome high back dining chairs, two £45 Yew and green leather desk/dining chair £25 Slides pink cycle, 24" wheels £35 Tel: 07704 332979 (Yeovil) Air rifle, .22 with carrying case, mint condition £120 Tel: 07970 742471 (Templecombe) A collection of commemorative papers, magazines, souvenir brochures, mugs, glassware and trinkets from a range of historical events including royal and political births, marriages, coronations and death: Nixon resigning; American moon landings; Kennedy shooting; Millennium (full list available). All have been stored safely and are in good condition for their age. Free to a good home. Tel: 07704 340844
Domestic and contract flooring specialists 34 Princes Street, Yeovil BA20 1EQ
Tel: 01935 478100
walterwallyeovil@hotmail.co.uk
To advertise – 01935 424724 • email: info@theconduitmagazine.co.uk • www.theconduitmagazine.co.uk
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Providing Dental Care for the Yeovil area since 1864
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Princes Street Dental Practice is an independent private practice where you will see the same dentist at each visit. We keep up to date with, and like to invest in, new technology. We have invested in a CEREC technology which allows us to fit crowns and bridges in just one visit – no impressions!
We are proud to be members of the Denplan Excel scheme. Please feel free to ring and ask any questions, or come in and meet our lovely staff.
45 Princes St, Yeovil BA20 1EG
01935 475962 www.princesstreetdental.co.uk