Yeovil Press - Issue 21 - June 2020

YEOVILPRESS

JU 20 NE 20

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

www.yeovilpress.co.uk | Edition Number 21 | FREE

YEOVIL TOWN FC SUPPORTERS AND OLD PLAYER FAVOURITES SUPPORT THE GLOVERS DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN ‹‹ 36-38

PHOTOGRAPHIC FLASHBACK TO JUNE 2019 AND WHAT WE DID LAST SUMMER! ‹‹ 14-15 OUR REGULAR DOWN MEMORY LANE FEATURE LOOKS BACK AT THE CHANGING FACE OF THE BOROUGH AREA OF YEOVIL TOWN CENTRE ‹‹ 26-27

EE

FR

INSIDE

YOUR FREE YEOVIL PRESS

EVEREST STAIRS CHALLENGE ‹‹ 7

YEOVIL AND SOMERSET MASONS HAVE RALLIED TO SUPPORT THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES DUE TO THE ONGOING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC. TURN TO PAGE 11 FOR MORE DETAILS.

HEART OF GOLD

VE DAY 75 STREET PARTY ‹‹ 19-22

MAYOR PRESENTS ANNUAL AWARD TO LOCAL WOMAN WHO IS RAISING MONEY TO BUY DEFIBRILLATORS FOR SCHOOLS. TURN TO PAGE 10 FOR FULL STORY.

WE ARE NOW OPEN ON FRIDAYS ONLY AT THE MOMENT – DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS RESTRICTIONS – FROM 10AM TO 2PM. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT DURING THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES KEY CUTTING – METAL ENGRAVING – GLASS ENGRAVING – PERSONALISED GIFTS – SPORTS TROPHIES

1 Church Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1HE Phone: 01935-411088 / www.atouchofglassyeovil.co.uk For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

THEATRE MEMORIES ‹‹ 28-29

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

1

Personal, Caring & Professional Have you sadly lost a loved one?

Are you looking for a caring, approachable Funeral Director for help?

24hr Service & Private Chapel of Rest All areas covered Low cost arrangement fees 01935 508971 OR 07789 276767 (24hr) 27 Market Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1HZ 2

enquiries@stuartfosterfunerals.com For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

EDITOR'S NEWS IN BRIEF NOTE IT has been a tough few weeks on a very personal level for me as my dear step-father of nearly 46 years, Terry Wootten, passed away in the early hours of Thursday, May 28.

He did not have coronavirus, but because of the covid-19 restrictions none of the family was able to visit him in the intensive care unit of Yeovil District Hospital from the time he was admitted on May 15 up until late on May 27 when we knew that his brave fight was coming to an end and we were allowed to go in to say our final goodbyes.

The fact that we were unable to visit and see him made things incredibly difficult and the stark reality of the devastating consequences of coronavirus have really hit home.

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do all you can to ensure the threat of coronavirus is erased as quickly as possible and that means adhering to the recommended advice.

I would hate for any other family to go through what mine has done over the past few weeks and not be allowed to see a loved one in hospital when they are so desperately ill.

I would like to dedicate this edition of Yeovil Press to the memory of my step-father – a man who was a devoted husband to my mum and a fantastic dad to me and my brothers James, Will and Jon. This edition of Yeovil Press – YOUR community newspaper – is smaller than usual because of the coronavirus pandemic and I do not know what the future holds in the months ahead; but I’m hoping that I will still be able to publish each month over the summer.

Thank you to those that have advertised in this edition – your support is very much appreciated during these difficult times.

The number of outlets where the paper is available has also been reduced because of coronavirus.

Many thanks to James Healey, of JRH Media, for his help with design and layout, and photographer Christine Jones for her support.

The next edition of Yeovil Press will hopefully be out in the early part of July. If you would like to get in touch – please email yeovilpress@gmail.com .

Take care, keep well and please stay safe.

Best wishes STEVE SOWDEN - Editor

Photo of the month

NEWS IN BRIEF >> IF any business would like to advertise in the next edition of Yeovil Press please get in touch by emailing yeovilpress@gmail.com or by phoning 0777-319-8081.

It would be great to make the next edition even bigger and better again. >> KEEP up-to-date with the latest news from Yeovil and surrounding area by logging onto the Yeovil Press website at www.yeovilpress.co.uk >> Some of the photos printed in the June edition of Yeovil Press are available to be bought.

Anyone wanting to buy photos included in this edition – please drop us a line at 0777-319-8081 or email yeovilpress@gmail.com >> GET IN TOUCH: If you have a story or an event coming up you would like to possibly see covered in the next edition of the Yeovil Press get in touch by emailing yeovilpress@gmail.com .

STAFF at the Knoll Nursing Home in Yeovil held a special Alice in Wonderland Day recently to help raise a few smiles during these dark days of coronavirus. Staff members dressed up as some of the characters from the much-loved Lewis Carroll novel, while some of the residents also joined in the fun. Knoll Nursing Home manager Joanna McLaughlin (pictured right) quipped on social media that it was “just a normal day at work.” More photos can be found on Page 30 of this edition of the Yeovil Press.

What's in your new local newspaper Pg 4: Thank You NHS and Care Workers Pg 5: Council's overwhelmed by support Pg 6: Yeovil Pride Pg 6: News from Yeovil District Hospital Pg 7: Everest Stairs Challenge Pg 7: Yeovil Rotary Club Pg 10: News from Yeovil Town Council Pg 12-13: News in Brief Pg 14-15: Photo Special: Flashback to June 2019 Pg 16-17: Family Announcements Pg 18: News from Yeovil Hospital Charity Pg 19-22: Photo Special: VE Day 75 Pg 24-25: Well-Being Pg 26-27: Down Memory Lane Pg 28-29: Photo Special: Theatre Memories Pg 30-31: Leisure Pg 33-34: Sport Pg 35-38: Yeovil Town FC For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

>> YEOVIL Press is published by Steve Sowden, of Yeovil Press, and printed by Newsquest at Fleet House in Hampshire Road, Weymouth, Dorset, or at Newspaper House in Osney Mead, Oxford, Oxfordshire.

YEOVIL PRESS YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

HAVE THE YEOVIL PRESS DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR EACH MONTH Avoid missing out on getting your copy of the monthly Yeovil Press community newspaper by signing-up to our delivery service.

It will cost £25 a year to have the Yeovil Press posted to your home each month.

Email yeovilpress@gmail.com or phone us on 07773-198-081 for further details.

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

3

THE Yeovil Press has again received plenty of photos sent in by parents and carers of their children with their very own Thank You poster - showing appreciation to our NHS workers and other front-line staff.

Here are just some of their efforts and we look forward to receiving more in the

4

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

weeks ahead.

If you would like to take part – get your children to design a Thank You poster and then take a photo of them with their artwork and send it to us via email at yeovilpress@gmail.com or send it as a message to the Yeovil Press on its social media page on Facebook.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Council thanks all those helping to get supplies to people in need

SOUTH Somerset District Council Yeovil. would like to say a HUGE thank you to A council spokesman said: “We have every local business and organisation received trolleys, crates and numerous which has selflessly given up its time, donations of essential food and supplies, donated food or equipment and shared many of them ongoing. And to top it expertise to support its Wellbeing Hub. off here have been wonderful gifts of The council was able to start chocolate to go in the parcels to bring a distributing vital supplies within days smile to people’s faces. of the Government announcing social “We are continuing to thank each and distancing measures in March thanks to every one of those who have helped by this support and is continuing to do so. giving them a big shout out on our social This includes The Lord’s Larder, which media pages.

Simply has Bathrooms & Bedrooms 14x4helping v3.qxp_Ad-style 02/05/2018 11:16know Page 1 29 years’ of experience “We sincerely hope they how people in need, as its expertise which was much everything they have done or given vital in helping establish the Hub which is appreciated. This includes Protexin, is based in the ballroom at Westlands at Crofton Stores, Friends of Yeovil Country

Park, Hunts, Bidfoods, Brakes, Farm Foods Co-op Yeovil, Co-op Martock, Tesco, Somerset Waste Partnership, Lord’s Larder, Glastonbury Festival, Lovefields, Yeo Valley, Somerset Waste Partnership, Hunt’s Dairies, Farm Foods, LED Leisure and Oscar Mayer.”

The spokesman added: “We would also like to thank our own dedicated staff who have been redeployed from other parts of the Council to all come together to form the Wellbeing Hub team.

“They have become a very close unit in a very short time working together as one to deliver everything asked of them. We

are so lucky to have these superstars in our organisation alongside support from staff at Yeovil Town Council.”

To date the council has supplied more than 500 food parcels across shielded, vulnerable and those facing financial hardship.

“We’re also providing hot meal and breakfast bags to the homeless,” added the spokesman.

If you need support or know someone who does please visit https://www. southsomerset.gov.uk/news/2020/4/ coronavirus-covid-19-how-to-getsupport-from-the-ssdc-wellbeing-hub/

Simply Inspirational ...

Quality bathrooms & wetrooms individually designed and expertly installed

Visit our Showroom

Simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms

The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, DT9 3LN (Through Archway by Half Moon Inn)

Tel: 01935 817111 * www.simplybathandbed.co.uk * info@simplybathandbed.co.uk Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Dear valued clients, please note that our showrooms will now be closed until further notice - as the company is currently furloughed.

We are however on an appointment only basis. If you would like to book in for an appointment, or just discuss your needs for your bathroom or bedroom, then please do drop us an email on info@simplybathandbed.co.uk We are looking to start up works again from the beginning of July, with social distancing and hand cleansing all strictly in place for our employees.

Stay safe, and we will see you all very soon.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

5

Hospital overwhelmed by community support YEOVIL District Hospital has been simply blown away by the support it has been receiving from people throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

In response to the many offers of support and the thousands of people who have offered to donate money, Yeovil Hospital Charity has been running a campaign to support the hospital, its staff and patients through this difficult time.

You can read more about the campaign and donate at www.justgiving.com/ campaign/helpyeovilhospital .

Yeovil Hospital Charity’s head of fundraising, James Kirton, said: “Thank you to everyone in the community who has contributed to our campaign to support the hospital through this crisis.

“We have received over £85,000 so far. This is being used to support staff and make the hospital a better and safer place to be now that Covid-19 is here in the community.

“We have also been blown away by the amount of items that have been given to us over the last few weeks.

“Our community has shown real spirit during this crisis and it has been a pleasure to respond to so many offers of support. On behalf of everyone at Yeovil Hospital, thank you.”

PHOTO: Yeovil Hospital would like to thank Nick’s Fruit and Veg customers for donating 700 pieces of fruit for hospital staff to enjoy.

YEOVILPRESS@GMAIL.COM WWW.YEOVILPRESS.CO.UK

Yeovil Pride event cancelled because of coronavirus ORGANISERS of the Yeovil Pride event planned for later this summer have decided to cancel this year’s event because of the coronavirus pandemic.

It had been scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 8, but due to the ongoing situation about covid organisers were left with little alternative.

Organisers said they would be responsible for the safety and wellbeing of all volunteers, suppliers and spectators.

“In the current circumstance, we’re unable to guarantee this,” said a spokesman for the group which promotes the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT+) community.

“LGBT+ Pride is more important than ever as many in our community are confined to staying at home,” added the spokesman. “For many young people this can be especially tough if living with parents or guardians who do not accept them, and without any space to be themselves.

“However, there are a number of charities set up to help support LGBT+ people of all ages during this period, including local charities 2BU Somerset

and Mindline Somerset, and national charities Childline, Switchboard and the LGBT Foundation.

“Whilst we cannot gather together this summer, Yeovil Pride will look into how we can move to a virtual march. We will also continue to monitor the situation and if there is a possibility to hold an event in the future, as the risk to public health decreases, we will endeavour to investigate and plan.”

Yeovil Pride is looking to see how it can have a “virtual celebration” instead on August 8.

JK Doran, chair of Yeovil Pride, said: “It is heart-breaking to know that Yeovil’s LGBT+ community won’t be able to celebrate this year together in our town centre, but the safety of all those who would be involved is our top priority.

“As we mark Pride Month, we will continue to fight for the rights of our community and look into ways we can come together to mark Pride later this year, albeit from home. We are also working to look at other ways we support LGBT+ people in Yeovil and the surrounding areas during this period.”

HOLDING AN EVENT? GET IN TOUCH WITH YEOVIL PRESS YEOVILPRESS@GMAIL.COM WWW.YEOVILPRESS.CO.UK

6

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Luke reaches Everest summit by walking up and down stairs SCHOOL in a Bag charity founder and chief executive Luke Simon has let his feet do the talking during the coronavirus lockdown – quite literally – by climbing a flight of stairs at the organisation’s headquarters in Chilthorne Domer a whopping 4,023 times.

The distance Luke walked up and down at the School in a Bag’s Home Farm HQ 2.2-metre office staircase totalled 8,848 metres – which equates to the height of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain.

The Everest Staircase Challenge took Luke 22 hours and 25 minutes to complete and he would like to thank everyone who tuned in on social media to send him “good luck” messages and to support his efforts.

Earlier in the lockdown on May 2, Luke completed the Three Peaks Lockdown Challenge by climbing the equivalent summit heights of Mount Snowdon in Wales, Scafel Pike in England and Ben Nevis in Scotland – where he took six hours and 28 minutes to achieve the 3,508metre total.

But Luke wanted to set himself a stiffer challenge so he embarked on the Everest Lockdown Staircase Challenge on May 29 – the anniversary of the first summit in 1953 – in 24 hours.

To give you some idea of the challenge – the Three Peaks Challenge involved walking up and down 1,514 flights of stairs, while on this occasion he had to do that again and a further 2,509 flights for Everest.

An online fundraising page has seen Luke raise more than £3,109 from his efforts.

The page can be found at https://bit. ly/2U6ITQ0 .

Money raised from the Three Peaks challenge has been sent to six separate School in a Bag partners in India, Tanzania, Nepal and Ghana to help with their efforts to provide education to the children they support during the covid-19 pandemic lockdown.

School in a Bag is a charity born out of the Piers Simon Appeal, a charity set-up

by Luke in memory of his older brother Piers, who lost his life in the Boxing Day Asian tsunami in 2004.

Rotarians support Lord's Larder

Tens of thousands of SchoolBags have been distributed around the globe to children who live in poverty and hardship and those affected by war or natural disaster.

Each bag contains writing and drawing

paper, pens, pencils and eating utensils.

More information can be obtained from the charity’s website at www. schoolinabag.org.

PHOTOS: Luke Simon on his Everest Staircase Challenge.

YEOVIL PRESS YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

OLD COPIES OF THE YEOVIL PRESS ARE AVAILABLE Did you miss out on seeing a certain photo or feature?

Would you like to buy a back-copy of the paper?

We have copies available dating back to the 1st edition published in July 2018.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

It will cost £5 per copy to include post and packaging.

Email yeovilpress@gmail.com or phone us on 07773-198-081 for further details.

YEOVILPRESS

YEOVILPRESS YEOVILPRESS

OC 20 T 19

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

www.yeovilpress.co.uk | Edition

PULL OUT PREVIEW ‹‹ 37-44 PLUS - EIGHT-PAGE LITERARY FESTIVAL FABULOUS YEOVIL

co-owner, New club chairman and tempted Scott Priestnall, could not be the to do the traditional “scarf above for this! head” photo, but we’ll settle Photo: Steve Sowden.

By Steve Sowden yeovilpress@gmail.com

of Yeovil THE new chairman and co-owner Priestnall, has Town Football Club, Scott good times back said he wants to bring the

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

EE

FR

INSIDE

INSIDE

YOUR FREE YEOVIL PRESS

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN YEOVIL TOWN CENTRE WERE OFFICIALLY SWITCHEDON DURING A FUNFILLED EVENING OF FESTIVITIES! MORE PHOTOS  TURN TO PAGES 30-31

outside the club. with the club, if “As I’ve got more involved six or seven the completion had been maybe I to the club. maybe I wouldn’t have done. negotiations weeks ago, hoping to The long drawn out ownership I’ve got the bug now, I’m September 20 and think really were finally completed on stripes as a Glover and I’ve over the club earn my me Mr Priestnall, who has taken about games. It’s kind of got first official press got excited to be honest with with Errol Pope, held his interested in football again, conference last week. that it felt a “bit you. over the And Mr Priestnall admitted “It was a really easy decision club’s new owner surreal” to finally be the of weeks to become chairman. club for the past last couple fans.” as he had “been around the Hopefully I’ll do right by the his press timed have not could three months.”

Mr Priestnall Press as to having He was asked by the Yeovil any better with the Glovers club chairman conference on the bounce whether he would be the new won six consecutive games be the case. on and he confirmed that would became seven victories in succession which yes,” – success “I am going to be club chairman (September 28) with a 3-1 to be. It’s a Saturday he said. “I actually want League table-toppers Bromley. my mind on over National position that I’ve kind of changed

engage with the He said that he wants to have been left supporters and get those who in recent years disenchanted with the club back through the turnstiles. overnight, But he knows it will not happen will get on board but hopes that that people with the new look Yeovil Town. just about the Mr Priestnall said it was not about a change change of ownership, but also new, something of “culture, ethos, something different.” make the club He said he wanted to but hasn’t been “something like it once was, in recent years.”

John Fry He confirmed previous owners, now no longer and Norman Hayward, were part of the club. for Yeovil hopes his And when asked about he said: “I would on the pitch this season – but the aim is love us to finish in the play-offs, to get the players playing well.”

Pages 76-78.

More Yeovil Town news on

CUTTING AT A FABULOUS PRICE

KEY Trophies – Personalised Gifts – Sports Metal Engraving – Glass Engraving BA20 1HE 1 Church Street, Yeovil, Somerset co.uk Phone: 01935-411088 | www.atouchofglassyeovil.

TWINDERELLA PANTOMIME HAD A BUCKET FULL OF NAUGHTY LAUGHS  OH NO IT DIDN’T, OH YES IT MOST CERTAINLY DID! PHOTO SPECIAL ‹‹ 50-51

PLUS  FIND OUT THE LATEST NEWS AND FUNDRAISING EVENTS FOR YEOVIL DISTRICT HOSPITAL’S BREAST CANCER UNIT APPEAL

EE

FR

‹‹ 1317

YEOVIL AMATEUR PANTOMIME SOCIETY PUT ON A FANTASTIC SHOW AS IT TOOK AUDIENCES OFF ON A MAGICAL PANTO JOURNEY TO SEE THE WIZARD OF OZ. FOURPAGE PHOTO SPECIAL ON THE CENTRE PAGES ‹‹ 35-38

INSIDE

YOUR FREE YEOVIL PRESS

YOUR FREE YEOVIL PRESS

GIN AND MORE ‹‹ 16-17

ROUND TABLE CHARITY LUNCH ‹‹ 10-11

his stripes as a Glover

since I started.

I didn’t think “When I first started out actually looking about being chairman. I was it, both inside and at potential people to do

MA 20 RCH 20

www.yeovilpress.co.uk | Edition Number 18 | FREE

THREEPAGE PHOTO SPECIAL OF YEOVIL YOUTH THEATRE GROUP’S FANTASTIC MUSICAL PRODUCTON OF CHICAGO ‹‹ 45-47

PLUS  COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS 12PAGE PULLOUT SPECIAL  CENTRE PAGES ‹‹ 2738

HOSPICE LATEST ‹‹ 18-19

New chairman wants to earn

DE 20 C 19

www.yeovilpress.co.uk | Edition Number 14 | FREE

Number 13 | FREE

FROM THE SUPER THREE PAGES OF PHOTOS TOWN CENTRE ‹‹ 12-14 SATURDAY EVENT IN YEOVIL OF THIS YEAR’S

E

adequately fed in these difficult and unusual times.

He expressed his sincere thanks for the Rotary Club’s support and added that the Trust would be unable to carry out its excellent work without donations such as this.

He also praised the YCST’s team of willing volunteers, together with the support of the local supermarkets, shops and businesses that have stepped-up in order to fulfil the increased requirement.

For further information and to make a donation visit www.ycstyeovil.org.uk .

FR E

THE Rotary Club of Yeovil has handedover a donation of £400 to the Yeovil Christian Support Trust in support of the currently much-needed Lord’s Larder food bank.

Club president Clive Wakely (right) presented a cheque to YCST chairman Dr Richard Hogben outside the Yeovil Community Church’s Gateway premises in Yeovil.

Dr Hogben explained that during the Covid-19 lockdown period demands on the food bank have trebled with local agencies requesting additional help to keep residents and families in the area

Town council's slice of Council Tax goes up by just £1 a month

By Steve Sowden

yeovilpress@gmail.com PEOPLE are being asked to pay just over £1 a month extra to help Yeovil Town Council deliver a £1million-plus budget in the next financial year.

Members of Yeovil Town Council agreed on Tuesday (February 4) to set a budget of £1,152,589 for 2020-21.

It is only the second time in the council’s history that a budget of more than £1million has been set and follows the £1,033,517 agreed in 2019-20.

But what difference will it make to people’s pockets in order to help finance the extra £119,072 needed by the town council when the annual Council Tax bill falls through letterboxes in April?

Remembering the homeless at Christmas

By Steve Sowden

UKULELE FESTIVAL ‹‹ 30-31

yeovilpress@gmail.com A NEWLY-FORMED organisation in Yeovil is asking people to remember those who will be homeless at Christmas.

The Homeless and Vulnerable Outreach Network was formed earlier this year and volunteers meet at the bandstand area of Yeovil in Lower Middle Street on a Wednesday evening where they provide hot food for the homeless, vulnerable and lonely.

But the group has plans to grow over the

months ahead by expanding its services by providing warm clothes and bedding for the homeless, haircuts as well as assist other agencies in their work.

With Yeovil being on the Dorset/Somerset border, it’s first major milestone is to raise enough funds to purchase a horse box converted into a catering trailer, allowing volunteers to take their service into nearby towns and access the smaller homeless communities.

If anyone wants to help fundraise in order to help achieve this then they should e-mail

CHIPPED CAR KEYS FOR JUST £40 AT A TOUCH OF GLASS UNTIL

SEASIDE CHUCKLES ‹‹ 60-61

YOUR new local newspaper

that covers YOUR local area

havon.fundraising@gmail.com.

The group was created by Ricky Gleeson who found himself homeless at a young age and spent time living on the streets of North East England.

Thankfully Ricky – despite having problems along the way – has been able to turn his life around by joining the Royal Navy where he serves today at RNAS Yeovilton.

But he has not forgotten his difficult past and wants to help those who find themselves in troubled times.

THE END OF JANUARY 2020

1 Church Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1HE Phone: 01935-411088 / www.atouchofglassyeovil.co.uk 1

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

MAYOR'S CHARITY BALL ‹‹ 20-21

It means that average households in Yeovil – in the Band D bracket – will be paying an extra £13.08 a year which equates to around just 25p a week or £1.09 a month more than in 2019-20.

This is an 11.53 per cent increase, but in real terms works out the price of just one decent packet of biscuits once a month.

The overall slice of the Council Tax going to Yeovil Town Council from individual Band D households in the town will be £126.55 a year – as opposed to £113.47 in 2019-20.

It should be stressed, however, that the town council only takes a small share of the overall Council Tax bill so the final total will be a lot more.

Somerset County Council will take the largest amount with South Somerset District Council, Police and Crime Commissioner for

VW SKODA AUDI KEYS CUT AND CHIPPED FOR JUST £45 ALSO ULTION SECURITY KEYS CUT

MARY POPPINS ‹‹ 40-41

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

Avon and Somerset, and the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service also getting a slice of the Council Tax cake.

The town council agreed to ask South Somerset District Council – the Council Tax billing authority – for a precept of £1,152,589 which will be used to finance the services it provides during the next financial year along with special projects.

Among the initiatives planned by the town council will be a £10,000 contribution to the St John’s Road play area; a £5,000 contribution towards improvements at the Yeovil Recreation Centre; a £12,600 contribution towards the restoration of the fountain at Sydney Gardens; and £35,000 for the planned VE Day 75th Anniversary celebrations.

For more news from Yeovil Town Council – turn to Page 4.

1 Church Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1HE Phone: 01935-411088 / www.atouchofglassyeovil.co.uk 1

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

HOSPICE NEWS ‹‹ 22-23

LEGENDS ARE RETURNING ‹‹ 68-69

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

1

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

7

Pop-up care home opens in Yeovil A NEW pop-up care home has now opened its doors to some of Somerset’s most elderly and frail residents as part of the fight against coronavirus.

The former Yeovil care home, Hendford Court (previously Acacia House), has welcomed residents once again after round-the-clock efforts by Somerset County Council and Somerset Care to get it back into full working order were completed in a matter of weeks – rather than the usual 18 months it takes to set up a care home.

Hendford Court has been set up as a safe haven for people who have tested positive for coronavirus or are displaying symptoms, who cannot yet return to their care home or own home. Residents will be those who are considered well enough to leave hospital, but with continuing care needs.

Cllr David Huxtable, the council’s spokesman for adult care, said: “Hendford Court will provide a safe and reassuring place for those who can’t yet return home and need somewhere to self-isolate with

appropriate care provided from a team of fully trained staff and volunteers.

“Thank you to everyone who stepped forward after our appeal to help support.

At present our acute and community hospitals are coping well during the pandemic, but we must be prepared to provide care if, and when, it is needed.

I would like to thank everyone involved who has worked with such commitment to make sure we are well prepared.”

Andrew Needham, operations director at Somerset Care, said: “We are incredibly proud to be being involved in providing this resource for the people of Somerset.

“The team at Somerset Care has worked hard to get the home ready and I am very grateful to all who have helped.”

The scale and speed of the project was considerable – for example a fit-out, normally taking four to six weeks, was achieved in two days.

At the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Somerset County Council issued an appeal for carers – and the response has been inspirational with 184

WYVERN INTERIORS

external applications.

Hendford Court’s 65 staff include the county council’s vice-chairman, Cllr Mark Keating, and thanks to Yeovil’s B&Q store they have some open-air seating where they can take a break.

Store manager Steve Pestel has generously donated four picnic seat and bench sets so staff can enjoy some outdoor respite during their shifts.

The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline 0300 790 6275, staffed by the county and district councils’ contact centres, is open from 8am-6pm seven days a week. It provides a single contact number for those wanting to access any advice they may need, including emotional support, in the current crisis.

PHOTO: Cllr Mark Keating at the Hendford Court pop-up care home in Yeovil.

Learning experiences during lockdown

Painting and Decorating * No job too small*

* Free no obligation quotes * * Fully Insured * Social distancing observed Contact for full details Phone: 01935-433952 wyverninteriors@outlook.com Facebook.com/WyvernInteriors 8

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

STUDENTS from Stanchester Academy at Stoke-sub-Hamdon have encountered some amazing learning experiences during the coronavirus lockdown on top of their normal school work which has been set.

This is what students Cerys, Will and Alfie have been learning.

Alfie has been lambing on his family farm and learning all sorts in order to support the family in keeping the farm going and Cerys and Will helped deliver five beautiful puppies at home this week.

“Well done all of you,” said a Stanchester spokesman.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

10% OFF

CONVEYANCING FO R EM ERG EN CY S ERV I C ES & A R M ED FO RC ES PER SO N N EL

We of fer this discount as a token of appreciation to our NHS, Fire Ser vices, Police, RNLI, HM Coastguard and Mountain Rescue and Armed Forces employees.

To receive this discount, the home owner must

Moving house is said to be one of the top 5

receive the discount.

be an emergency services employee (in joint applications just one person must be employed to be eligible).

Please contact Joanna Shortland in our Yeovil office on 01935 426047 to discuss further and to instruct her directly to

most stressful life events (according to Google) but for qualifying emergency service personnel, hopefully this offer makes the journey ahead a

NB: Evidence of employment will be required upon instruction.

little brighter!

MAGNOLIA HOUSE | 54-58 PRINCES STREET | YEOVIL | SOMERSET | BA20 1EQ B R I D G W AT E R | TA U N T O N | M I N E H E A D | Y E O V I L | M A R T O C K | E X E T E R

A M I C U S L AW.C O.U K | 0 19 3 5 42 6 0 47 For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

9

Kerry wins annual Mayor's Award for her fundraising work THE annual Mayor’s Award for 2020 has been awarded to Kerry Begley who fundraises to help provide potentially life-saving defibrillators to schools in Yeovil.

The silver salver will be presented to Kerry by the Mayor of Yeovil, Cllr David Recardo, at a more appropriate time when restrictions regarding the coronavirus pandemic have been lifted.

Cllr Recardo announced the winner of the annual award during Yeovil Town Council’s full meeting held on May 26 which was carried out on the Zoom technology – managed by town clerk Amanda Card – where councillors logged in online.

Kerry runs a Facebook group on social media entitled Young Hearts Somerset where she aims to provide a defibrillator on as many school sites in Yeovil as possible.

A defibrillator can be used if someone is having a cardiac arrest and could literally mean the difference between life and death.

The equipment is housed in a

tamper-proof yellow box and, crucially, the defibrillator fitted is a speakinginstructional device meaning no medical training is required to use it.

In the event of an emergency, people should call 999 and the emergency call handler will advise of the defibrillator’s location - if the caller is not already aware of it. The call handler will then provide a code to access the equipment from its cabinet at the same time as they dispatch an ambulance. The call handler and the device then talk the user through what to do.

The Mayor was officially re-elected for a third term of office during the council meeting, while Cllr Helen Stonier will be the Deputy Mayor for 2020-21.

He announced that during the past 12 months he had raised a total of £7,758 for his nominated charity – the Yeovil District Hospital’s Breast Cancer Unit Appeal – and was disappointed that his fundraising in the second-half of the year had been curtailed because of the coronavirus lockdown.

Cllr Recardo said he would continue to

support the Breast Cancer Unit Appeal – which is looking to raise £2m to build a one-stop-shop unit for breast cancer patients at the Yeovil Hospital – as his

nominated charity during 2020-21.

He announced that the Mayor’s Chaplain for the forthcoming year would again be Rev Jim Peace, but added there would be no Mayor’s Cadet this term.

The Mayor thanked his wife, Yvonne, for her support as Mayoress during the past year, while he also thanked his family, Rev Pearce, town council staff, the Mayor’s Cadet, mace bearer Bruce Trigger and his PA, Lucy Jones, for all their help.

He said that the previous year had once again been an interesting and busy 12 months in which he had attended many civic events and engagements.

Meanwhile, Yeovil Town Council has a vacancy for a councillor following the recent resignation of Amy Grieves in the Yeovil College ward of the authority.

A public notice has been published which states that unless there is a request before June 16 for an election to be held, the council will look to fill the vacancy by co-option.

PHOTO: The Mayor of Yeovil, Cllr David Recardo.

Help your neighbours during coronavirus outbreak THE coronavirus outbreak is still ongoing in the UK and there are still people in Yeovil and surrounding area who self-isolating to stop themselves from being put in danger.

So please spare a thought for your neighbours who you know might be struggling during these worrying and uncertain times.

Cut-out this postcard and photocopy it and take it round to your neighbours who might be self-isolating or the elderly who are unable to get out and about.

It is times like this when community spirit comes to the fore and the people of Yeovil will no doubt do everything they can to help those who need some support.

YEOVILPRESS@GMAIL.COM 10

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Masons supporting their communities during coronavirus lockdown the previous month of February.

Yeovil Masons donated £1,700 to the group on May 6. This was presented to Dr Dick Hogben by Scott Gibbons, on behalf of the Yeovil Masons.

Dr Hogben said the money had arrived at the right time and would immediately

be put to good use in purchasing muchneeded supplies for the people of Yeovil who are facing hardships due to impact of the covid-19 pandemic.

Dr Hogben thanked the Yeovil Masons for their kind and generous support to the people of Yeovil at this trying time.

Sarah Cherry, of the Yeovil Hospital Charity, with Yeovil Mason and consultant radiographer Adrian Watkins.

YEOVIL and Somerset Masons have once again rallied round in supporting their local communities in times of need.

This time is in direct response to the Covid-19 outbreak. They have donated ten Samsung tablets to the Yeovil Hospital Charity for those patients that have been impacted on by this awful virus.

The tablets will allow patients to keep in contact with their families and loved ones at any time of the day or night and gives them opportunity of accessing entertainment and stimulation to keep them occupied during their recovery.

The presentation was made by Yeovil Mason and consultant radiographer, Adrian Watkins, to Sarah Cherry, of the Yeovil Hospital Charity.

Sarah was over the moon on receiving the tablets and thanked Adrian and the Masons of Yeovil and Somerset for their kind gesture.

The tablets were immediately whisked

off to the IT department to have work carried out on them to allow the user to access Wi-Fi and the internet from their ward.

Meanwhile, the Masons have also been supporting Yeovil’s Food Bank which operates from The Gateway centre in Addlewell Lane, Yeovil.

It began in a small way in 1991 when a representative of Yeovil Citizens’ Advice Bureau spoke about the need for emergency food to members of one of the churches in Yeovil. It is now supplied by over 60 local churches, 45 schools and several community groups.

Last year in 2019, over 91,000 items of food were given out via 60 different agencies to help 6,231 local people consisting of 3,715 adults and 2,316 children.

Cleary the demand for their support has grown and in March alone they helped 1,104 people with food parcels, this compares with 407 people helped in

Staying safe as the No5 Café Diner reopens THE popular No5 Café Diner on the Lynx Trading Estate in Yeovil is back open following a temporary closure because of the lockdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic – but strict safety procedures are in place.

The café in Kingfisher Close on Gazelle Road is open from 8am to 2.30pm Monday to Saturday with a full menu subject to any shortages in the supply chain.

Charlie Drake, of No5, said: “We are now back open six days a week offering a take away and delivery service.

“We have new measures in place at the diner to keep us all safe and complying with Government guidelines.

“There is a new one way system, clearly marked with signs and floor markers,

new gel stations for customers to use and a Perspex screen installed in front of the till.

“We have contactless payment available, we do still accept cash but would prefer card whenever possible.”

Charlie added: “Huge thanks to everyone that have been using us during this very challenging time and we look forward to getting things back to as normal as soon as possible over the coming days and weeks.

“We are working hard to get the sandwich vans back out and around the trading estates and businesses of Yeovil. In the meantime we can deliver any orders you have directly to your workplace.”

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Dr Dick Hogben receives a £1,700 donation by Scott Gibbons (right), on behalf of the Yeovil Masons.

BACK OPEN!

8am to 2.30pm Monday to Saturday We are offering our full menu subject to any shortages in the supply chain

NEW! NEW! NEW!

Vegan Sausage Rolls Fantastic feedback from Vegan and non-Vegan customers: “Delicious” - “The pastry was just right and not greasy” “Excellent texture” - “We’ll definitely be back to get some more” Three ways to pre-order your food for collection or delivery: 1: Phone 01935-433665 2: Email orders@number5catering.co.uk 3: Direct message on No5 Catering’s Facebook page.

Or you can come to the diner and place your order over the counter.

Number5Catering.co.uk | 01935 433665 facebook.com/No5Diner | twitter.com/no5cateringltd 1 Kingfisher Close, Gazelle Road, Lynx Trading Estate, Yeovil BA20 2PJ YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

11

NEWS AT A GLANCE HERE are some news snippets from the Yeovil area.

If you have any news you would like to feature in a future edition of the Yeovil Press community newspaper – please email us at yeovilpress@gmail.com.

IMPORTANT works to resurface a main road into Yeovil are being planned to take place later this month.

The A30 Sherborne Road between the Lyde Road junction and the Dorset boundary was last resurfaced back in February 2018 but is showing early signs of deterioration.

Testing has shown the surface to be defective and it will be removed and replaced at no cost to the County Council. This replacement is also taking place earlier than planned, making use of the quieter network at present.

Works will take place over five nights, starting on June 15, with a road closure in place to keep the workforce and travelling public safe.

Cllr John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s spokesman for highways and transport, said: “Our contractors use approximately 23,000 tonnes of road surfacing materials every year and failures like this are very rare.

“However, when it does happen, we have the necessary safeguards in place to ensure faulty materials can be replaced at no cost to the taxpayer.

“Although the additional works may not be welcome in the short term, the restored road surface will be much improved and provide lasting benefits.”

Somerset County Council looks after more than 4,170 miles of road and in 2018-19 invested £24.7m to keep the county moving including filling 18,519 potholes and delivering 385 highway maintenance schemes ranging from drainage works to carriageway and footway resurfacing.

For more information and to stay up to date with this and other roadworks schemes visit www.travelsomerset.co.uk or follow @TravelSomerset on Twitter.

and keeping people in Somerset safe.

This goes without saying. However, as we move towards recovery we also need to be looking ahead and preparing to support our residents and businesses in uncertain economic times.

“The evidence shows there are significant benefits in removing five councils and replacing them with one – benefits which will support our communities going forward.

“We are continuing to develop our business case transparently so we can present it to Full Council in July. We want people to really understand what these benefits will mean to them and it’s important we gather the views of the public as best we can.”

In a joint report commissioned by all five councils before the coronavirus pandemic, it was unanimously agreed that the existing arrangements were not working well, and that change was needed.

But South Somerset District Council leader, Cllr Val Keitch, has vehemently opposed the idea of setting up a Unitary Authority for the county.

Cllr Fothergill has been quick to praise the joint working of the councils throughout the crisis. “Coronavirus has shown that working in a crisis with our district colleagues can bring about some great results,” he said.

“But it shouldn’t take a crisis to do that – we know that having one Council will keep those great services going but also free up vital funding to invest in key areas like climate change and more local decision making. We need this to work not just in a crisis, but in our day-to-day operations and that’s what unitary will do for Somerset.”

And he pointed out that if the government supported the proposal, it would see all councils scrapped and replaced with a new unitary authority.

“This would allow more decisions to be made locally at parish, town and city level rather than in more remote district councils head-quarters,” he said.

For more information, visit the One Somerset website at onesomerset.org.uk.

SURVEYS of residents and businesses across the county will take place from this week as Somerset County Council gathers views towards disbanding all five councils and setting up a new single Unitary Authority.

It follows a decision in February that Somerset County Council will look to reduce duplication and waste across the five councils and instead involve communities more closely in decisions that have an impact in their area through a new One Somerset approach.

Somerset County Council leader, Cllr David Fothergill, said: “Our focus has been, and continues to be on coronavirus

ON-STREET parking patrols were due to restart in Somerset at the beginning of June following the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

With more pupils returning to schools and some businesses starting to reopen, Somerset County Council’s civil enforcement officers will return to help keep roads clear and traffic moving.

At first, they will serve penalty notices on vehicles parked on double yellow lines, in places with loading restrictions, bus stops and dropped kerbs in public areas – all locations where no vehicles should be parked.

For the first seven days, penalties

12

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

will not be served where parking is permitted, such as resident bays, pay and display locations, limited waiting bays and single yellow lines (at times).

The vehicle may have been left correctly and the driver may have, for example, self-isolated. A warning letter will be left on these vehicles asking that it is immediately removed to avoid receiving penalties in future.

Cllr John Woodman, the council’s spokesman for highways and transport, said: “During the lockdown, most parking enforcement officers have been redeployed to other roles supporting the community, such as delivering PPE or managing queuing traffic at the reopened household waste recycling centres or testing centres.

“Their efforts are greatly appreciated, and I would like to thank them as they begin to resume their normal duties.”

Requests for residents’ paper permits have been on hold since the start of the UK lockdown but preparations are now being made to issue them. The expiry date will be extended to make sure people receive a full 12-month period.

All annual virtual resident permits are being extended for two months to cover the period of suspension and ensure everyone receives a full 12 months’ value.

Please check with your district council for information on car parks in your local area.

ROYAL Navy helicopter crews have proved their ability to protect the UK’s aircraft carriers with a new missile system.

As sailors and marines support the current national fight against coronavirus, the Wildcat Maritime Force based at RNAS Yeovilton is focused on ensuring the UK is prepared for future global threats.

Blasting from a Wildcat helicopter, the new Martlet missile has been tested on a range off the coast of Wales.

In 0.3 seconds, the missile detached from the Wildcat HMA Mk2 helicopter, accelerating to one and a half times the speed of sound.

The trials mark an important milestone in the testing of the new system which will arm the Wildcat helicopters that deploy as part of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s maiden operational deployment next year.

Commander Matt Boulind, the Wildcat Maritime Force Commander, said: “This test firing shows the Wildcat helicopter will be ready to help defend our Queen Elizabeth-class carriers and their strike groups for years to come.

“The Royal Navy and Army introduced Wildcat helicopters into service five years ago and the firing of the Martlet this week is a very significant milestone and represents a huge success for the joint industry and

MoD team.

“This firing underpins future Royal Navy offensive capability and the defence of the surface fleet.”

VOTING booths and netball matches were just some of the ways staff at South Somerset District Council got injured in the past 12 months.

The authority has published a list of all health and safety incidents recorded in 2019, broken down by the area in which staff worked and where the incidents took place.

In addition to physical injuries, staff members were threatened with violence on several occasions – including one incident where dog faeces was delivered to the council’s Brympton Way headquarters in Yeovil.

The council has said it is taking steps to ensure its staff and the public are safe in all its offices and facilities.

The report was published before a virtual meeting of the authority’s audit committee on Thursday afternoon (May 14).

Between January 1 and December 31, 2019, council staff were involved in 95 health and safety incidents – of which 43 were officially counted as “accidents”.

The largest single proportion of accidents occurred in the two councilrun entertainment venues – the Octagon Theatre and Westlands, both in Yeovil.

There were 14 accidents across the two venues – including burns, slips on the steps leading onto the Octagon stage, and several minor head injuries.

The environmental services team had 12 accidents, including facial injuries sustained in the Petters Way car park, a shoulder injury in the Lufton workshop, and one case of heat exhaustion.

The council’s countryside team – which is responsible for maintaining green spaces and beauty spots – had seven accidents, with staff members injuring their feet and wrists on Ham Hill, straining their legs at Chard Reservoir, tripping in Yeovil Country Park and one “skin reaction to wild vegetation”.

There were also eight accidents at the main council offices in Yeovil, mainly comprising slips and trips, but also including two cases of “minor injuries which occurred during a netball match at Bucklers Mead.”

One staff member was also unlucky enough to sustain finger injuries through the “assembly of polling booths” during the local elections in May 2019.

On top of all of these incidents, there were four serious injuries which were reported to the Health and Safety Executive under its RIDDOR procedures (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations).

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

These consisted of: A member of the public who broke their ankle after tripping at Westlands.

A member of the public who cut their leg on seating in the auditorium.

A staff member injured by a needle while cleaning inside the Octagon Theatre.

A staff member who injured their shoulder while loading a “large object” into an environmental services vehicle.

There were 24 further incidents involving the public, including 15 slips, trips or falls, one case of “youths fighting”, one dog-on-dog attack and three injuries which “relate to a customer passing out”.

Staff were also on the receiving end of 22 violent incidents – of which 17 were verbal abuse, either in person or over the phone.

There were three incidents where individuals “feared for their physical personal safety” – two in council-run parks and once at the Petters Way office – and one case where a staff member had their car stolen at Chard Reservoir.

Most disturbingly, one staff member had a package left at their office which turned out to contain dog excrement.

There were also two near-misses, both of which involved slipping or tripping on the stairs at Brympton Way. The total number of incidents (95) is more than 60 per cent higher than the total for the previous calendar year (where there were 58 incidents).

Netta Meadows, the council’s director for service delivery, said in her report that steps were being taken to address this rise and ensure staff safety.

She said: “A protocol for dangerous incidents has been developed, with staff trained and aware of what to do in the event of a serious incident.

“Alarm systems have also been reviewed and put in place where need identified.

“Work has also been identified on dealing with violent persons, and a centralised database and procedure for dealing with those individuals will be launched shortly.”

NATIONAL Volunteers’ Week has been running from June 1-7 and Somerset County Council and partners have been celebrating all the amazing work volunteers do, not just during the last few covid-19 months, but all year round.

Many people stepped forward to support local community groups and organisations during the covid-19 outbreak - a heartwarming response - and the council wants to thank everyone who has made a huge difference in these unsettling times.

There have been all kinds of things volunteers have been doing within their local communities - from collecting medical prescriptions, delivering food to walking dogs whose owners are shielding.

There are also many people who have been using their professional skills to make a difference. Somerset County Council staff stepped forward to support other key services such as registration services, adult social care and delivering essential Protective Personal Equipment (PPE).

Vicky Chipchase, a commissioning officer

within Adult Social Care, volunteered as an administrator for her local area covid-19 support group at the start of lockdown.

“Listening to the gratitude of our residents when I speak to them on the phone makes me proud to be part of the volunteer network in our area,” she said.

“We work closely with other community organisations to get people what they need at the right time. The positive impact that this is happening on our communities makes me glad that I took up this opportunity when I did.”

At the beginning of lockdown, many volunteering roles across the county were paused. However, some council services have safely adapted to ensure volunteering continues.

Volunteering is a great way to make a difference to the lives of others, gain confidence and self-esteem, gain new skills, knowledge and experience, feel good about yourself, give back to your community.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, spokesman for customer and communities at Somerset County Council, would like to thank all volunteers.

“Thank you to all volunteers who have done so much across Somerset over the past few months,” she said. “We couldn’t manage without you. Whether you have been checking on your neighbour, delivering food parcels, or if you joined a voluntary organisation to help – Thank you! Thank you for everything you have done and keep up the good work.”

For more information on volunteering please visit www.volunteering.somerset. gov.uk or for Corona Virus Helpers please go to www.corona-helpers.co.uk/ THE Lynx Trade Park in Yeovil is now almost fully let following the arrival of some new businesses.

The trade counter scheme occupies a highly prominent roadside location with frontage onto the busy Lysander Road and it is situated at the entrance to the Lynx Trading Estate.

Developed by established commercial property investors, Craigard, the business units offer comprehensively refurbished accommodation including new roofs, WCs, full height roller shutter loading doors and separate pedestrian entrances and are being jointly marketed by CBRE and Edmonds Commercial.

James Nelson, surveyor in the industrial and logistics team at CBRE in Bristol, said: “Lynx Trade Park is a prime example of delivering the right product, in the right location, at the right time – and these three recent lettings prove that.

“With an excellent tenant line-up, the scheme is very well positioned to welcome further new occupiers and reach full occupancy once the restrictions introduced following the Covid-19 outbreak have eased further.”

There are still two units left available – at the time of writing.

THE National Museum of the Royal Navy, who operates RNAS Yeovilton’s Fleet Air Arm Museum, has revealed the devastating impact of the closure on its finances during

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.

THE National Museum of the Royal Navy, who operates RNAS Yeovilton’s Fleet Air Arm Museum, has revealed the devastating impact of the closure on its finances during the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.

It temporarily closed the Fleet Air Arm Museum on March 18 in line with Government advice.

And while many UK national museums receive up to 80 per cent of their funding from the Government, the NMRN only gets 19 per cent of its support from Westminster with the remaining 81 per cent having to be self-generated.

Director general of the NMRN, Dominic Tweddle, said: “Many will have seen in the media the dire situation facing museums up and down the country but perhaps don’t realise that a museum such as ours, faces those same challenges.

“We have reached out to departments across the Navy, Ministry of Defence and Department of Culture, Media and Sport and have had great messages of support; but nevertheless the situation still remains precarious.”

The Fleet Air Arm Museum is based next to the home of the Fleet Air Arm and one of the busiest military airbases in the country - RNAS Yeovilton.

The museum provides a crucial public connection to the 80-year-old air base

which employs over 4,000 people. It is also one of the top three tourist attractions in Somerset and is an important part of Somerset tourist and hospitality economy with additional over 100,000 visitors a year.

Dominic continues “In addition to the Museum is £3million storage facility housing an extensive collection of archives, objects and airframes, bringing the total number of items in its care in Somerset to in well in excess of a million.

“These tell the incredible story of British naval aviation and its ingenuity and innovation in the home of the modern Fleet Air Arm. We know that the relationship between the museum, Yeovilton and its people is special and that our work is integral in supporting the local economy.”

Since closure the NMRN has launched its #NavigatetheNavy campaign online, sharing content from each of the museum’s locations and its collections. You can follow the NMRN on @natmuseumrn or facebook.com/NatMuseumRN/.

Whilst the Fleet Air Arm Museum is currently closed to the public, small teams are still working protecting and preserving the aircraft, as well as care for the Carrier Experience, collections and exhibitions that enable us to tell the story of the naval aviation. For anyone wishing to support the Fleet Air Arm Museum donations can be made via nmrn.org.uk/donate.

YEOVIL & DISTRICT BRANCH Registered Charity No 203644 www.yeovil.cats.org and on Facebook

The Branch always has many delightful cats and kittens both male and female of various ages and colours all waiting for ‘forever’ loving homes. All are blood tested, vaccinated, micro-chipped and have had a medical check at the vets to ensure they are healthy.

To adopt call 01935 507009; for help with neutering call 01935 507009; to volunteer, report lost or found cats and all other enquiries call 01935 412755 or email yeovilcatsprotection@tiscali.co.uk.

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

13

FLASHBACK The Flashback Festival concert was held at Yeovil Showground where the headline act was Heather Small of chart-topping M-People fame. Photos: Christine Jones.

TALENTED junior members of the Yeovil-based Castaway Theatre Group put on a fabulous production of the muchloved musical Annie at the Digby Hall in Sherborne from June 8-9, 2019, and it proved hugely popular with the audience. Photo: Christine Jones.

The 12th annual Funtasia Charity Ball was held at the Westlands Yeovil entertainment venue where party-goers enjoyed a wonderful night hosted by Russell and Louise Lee, of Yeovil-based Funtasia Entertainment. The event raised a record £17,000 for St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice and Yeovil District Hospital’s Breast Cancer Unit Appeal. Photos: Christine Jones.

A WOMAN who helped to raise a whopping £950,000 for charity was awarded the 2019 Silver Salver by the Mayor of Yeovil. Valerie Murley joined the Yeovil branch of what was then known as the Leukaemia Research Fund in early 1972 and although she might have been short in stature, she had become the group’s powerhouse over the years. The Mayor, Cllr David Recardo, also presented cheques to the Yeovil Hospital Charity and Yeovil Freewheelers with £10,336.55 which he had raised during his 2018-19 tenure as Mayor. Photos: Christine Jones.

14

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

VISITORS poured into the Yeovil Showground site over the Bank Holiday Weekend of May 3-6, 2019, to enjoy the annual Abbey Hill Steam Rally. People were able to look at a huge range of steam engines of all shapes, sizes and descriptions and other vintage vehicles.

There was also plenty of other entertainment and live music for people to enjoy. PHOTO: Christine Jones.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

IN this month’s Yeovil Press community newspaper we take a pictorial look back at what featured in the corresponding edition last year.

And WOW – what a difference!

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, subsequent lockdown and the cancellation of a multitude of events, shows and concerts this month’s paper is very much different to the June 2019 edition.

St Margaret’s Hospice held its annual charity fete where hundreds of people came out to support the event including members of Yeovil Round Table, while former Yeovil Mayor, Darren Shutler, and his wife Anna, handed over a cheque for £800. Photos: Christine Jones.

OSCAR-winning screenwriter and Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes congratulated the Yeovil-based Castaway Theatre Group on its musical production of The Wind in the Willows.

Lord Fellowes and his wife attended the opening night of the production at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil on Thursday, May 30, and he said he was delighted to watch such an amazing group packed with talented young people. Lord Julian Fellowes (right) is pictured with The Wind in the Willows director Jeremy Tustin and Castaway Theatre Group founder Lynn Lee Brown outside the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil. The Wind in the Willows musical is based on the classic Kenneth Grahame novel about the thrill-seeking, loveable menace Mr Toad (played by Vini Lloyd in the Castaways production). Photos: Christine Jones.

MEMBERS of the Yeovil Youth Theatre thanked all the customers at the main Tesco store in town who supported their bag packing fundraising event. A fantastic total of £417.79 was raised which went towards the costs of the group putting on its production of Chicago at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil last November. Photo: Submitted.

Home Farm THE 2019 Home Farm Fest music extravaganza at Chilthorne Domer in aid of the School in a Bag charity was another huge success. The rain poured down and the sun shone brightly over the weekend of June 7-9 – but whatever the weather, the festival crowds partied. There were bands aplenty and lots of other things for people to do and enjoy across the festival site. The festival closed on the evening of June 9 with an amazing performance by rock band Reef on the main Domer Stage.

Photos: Christine Jones.

THE cast of Starlight Express wowed the audiences at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil with some fantastic performances. The Motiv8 Productions team was definitely on the right track with its run of the much-loved musical penned by Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber. The musical has been running on the West End for more than 30 years and Yeovil-based Motiv8 was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to be the final amateur group to be allowed to perform this version of the show in the UK. Photos: Christine Jones.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

A SHORT service of commemoration took place in Yeovil town centre to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day Landings.

The Mayor, Cllr David Recardo, and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Pauline Lock, were joined by other members of Yeovil Town Council, representatives of the Yeovil branch of the Royal British Legion and local church officials in the Borough by the War Memorial. Members of the public also attended the service along with passing shoppers who stood and remembered the sacrifices made by so many 75 years ago and the beginning of the end of the Second World War and the Liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany on June 6, 1944. Photo: Steve Sowden.

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

15

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Let us know your family news WELCOME to the Family Announcements feature in YOUR monthly Yeovil Press community newspaper.

We will be delighted to publish your announcements – whether it is Births, Birthday Greetings, Congratulations, Marriages, Anniversaries and Good Luck Messages.

We will also hopefully be working closely with local funeral directors on the sad event of death announcements and possible obituary reports.

People can submit their Family Announcements by emailing the Yeovil Press at yeovilpress@gmail.com.

Steve Sowden, editor of the Yeovil Press, said: “Family Announcements are

part and parcel of any local newspaper and I’m delighted to offer this service to the people of Yeovil and surrounding area.

“The Yeovil Press now has a print-run of 5,000 copies a month and these are distributed at various outlets within the Yeovil area where people can pick them up.”

Lineage announcements can be published for free, but if you would like to add a photo to your message there will be a charge of £7.50.

So if you have any Family Announcements that are coming up in 2020 – please let us know.

YEOVIL PRESS YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

SEND US YOUR FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Births, Birthdays, Marriages, Anniversaries, Congratulations LISTINGS ARE FREE ADD A PHOTO FOR £7.50 Email - yeovilpress@gmail.com Phone - 07773-198-081

DEATH ANNOUNCEMENTS WOOTTEN – TERRY: Yeovil-born and bred Terry died peacefully at the age of 75 in the early hours of Thursday, May 28, after a brave 14-day fight in Yeovil District Hospital’s intensive treatment unit. Much-loved husband to Ruth for nearly 46 years, he was also a fantastic father and grandfather, and devoted brother. He will be greatly-missed by all that knew him. The family would like to thank those who have sent kind messages of condolence and support at this sad time.

Donations in memory of Terry will go to Yeovil Hospital’s intensive treatment unit and can be sent to Clive Wakely at A. J. Wakely & Sons, 33 Sparrow Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA21 4BT. Photo: Terry Wootten.

16

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS ASHWORTH - BRETT: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 2. We hope you had a great day. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X ASHWORTH – BRETT: Hoping you had a fabulous Birthday on June 2. Best wishes from your pals at the Yeovil Press.

BARRATT – NICOLA: Many happy returns for your special Birthday on June 1. We hope you had a wonderful day. Lots of love from all your family and friends. X BARRATT – NICOLA: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 1. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

BEARD – NICKY: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 5. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X BEARD – NICKY: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 5 – we hope you had a fabulous day. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

BEARD – NICKY: Hoping you had a fabulous Birthday on June 5. Love from all your friends with the Castaway Theatre Group family. X BEAUMONT – JOSHUA: A very Happy Birthday to my wonderful son on June 8. Love from Mummy XXX BEAUMONT – JOSHUA: Hoping you have a wonderful Birthday on June 8. Love from Molly. XXX BEAUMONT – JOSHUA: Many congratulations Josh on your Birthday on June 8. Love from all your family and friends.

BEAUMONT – JOSHUA: Have a fantastic Birthday on June 8. Love from everyone at the Castaway Theatre Group.

BEAUMONT – JOSHUA: Many happy returns young man for your Birthday on June 8. Have a great day.

Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

BETTANY – PENNY: Wishing you a wonderful Birthday on June 26. Love from all your family and friends. X BIRNIE – IZZY: Happy 11th Birthday on June 7.

We hope you have a fantastic day! Lots of love from Mum and Dad. X BIRNIE – IZZY: Hope you have an awesome Birthday on June 7. Love from James, Liv, Buddy and Lola. X BIRNIE – LUCY: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 6 – hoping you have a wonderful day! Love from all your family and friends. X BIRNIE – LUCY: We couldn’t miss your Birthday out!

Congratulations on your Birthday on June 6. From your friends at the Yeovil Press.

BIRNIE – SCOTT: Wishing you a very happy Birthday on June 12. All my love – Lucy. X BIRNIE – SCOTT: Happy Birthday Dad for June 12 – enjoy your day! Love from James, Live, Izzy, Buddy and Lola. X BIRNIE – SCOTT: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 12. Many happy returns from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

BURGAN – ADAM: Have a fabulous Birthday on June 15 – hoping you have a great day. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX BURGAN – ADAM: Congratulations Adam for your Birthday on June 15. Love and best wishes from all your friends and colleagues at the Octagon Theatre and the Westlands Yeovil entertainment venue. XXX BURGAN – ADAM: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 15. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

CHESTNUTT – JOHN: Hoping you had a wonderful Birthday on June 3. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X CHESTNUTT – JOHN: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 3 and thank you for putting the bins out – again! Best wishes from Steve and Christine.

CHESTNUTT – JOHN: Wishing you a very Happy Birthday on June 3. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

DAWSON – NICK: We hope you had a fantastic Birthday on June 1. Lots of love from all your family and friends. X DAWSON – NICK: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 1. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

DONNELLY – JANE: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 17. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX ELLIS – SUE: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 19. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX FOY – KEITH: Have a fantastic day on your Birthday on June 28. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends.

GAY – JUNE: Wishing you a wonderful Birthday on June 22. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX GODDARD – DONNA: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 23. Love and best wishes from all your friends and family – have a great day! XXX GOW – CHRIS: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 8. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends.

GOW – CHRIS: Hoping you have a fabulous Birthday on June 8. Best wishes from all your pals from the Preston School Class of ’87.

HACKER – MARTIN: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 18. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX HACKER – MARTIN: Have a fabulous day on your Birthday on June 18. Love and best wishes from your friends and colleagues at South Somerset District Council.

HACKER – MARTIN: Wishing you a very Happy Birthday on June 18. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

HEMMINGS – MARK: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 3. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X JONES – KEVIN: Lots of love on your Birthday on June 1. We hope you had a great day. Love from Mum and Steve. X KNOWLES – CHRIS: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 2. We hope you had a wonderful day. Love from all your family and friends. X KNOWLES – CHRIS: Hoping you had a fabulous Birthday on June 2. Best wishes from all your pals from the Preston School Class of ’87.

LEE – CHRIS: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 10. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends.

LEE – CHRIS: Don’t be cheeky Ives! Have a great day on your Birthday on June 10. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

LESTER – ROB: Have a great day on your Birthday on June 24. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX LESTER – ROB: Many congratulations for your Birthday on June 24. Best wishes from your friends

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

at the Yeovil Press.

LOWDER – AMANDA: Love and best wishes from all your family and friends for your Birthday on June 6. X LOWDER – AMANDA: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 6. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

MARSH – JEMMA: Love and best wishes from all your family and friends for your Birthday on June 30. X PENNEY – TIM: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 5. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X PENNEY – TIM: Hoping you had a fabulous Birthday on June 5. Best wishes from all your pals from the Preston School Class of ’87.

PIKE – LIZ: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 9. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. XXX PIKE – LIZ: Wishing you a very Happy Birthday on June 9. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

READ – CHARLIE: Wishing you a fabulous Birthday on June 25. Love and best wishes from all your friends and family. X READ – GEMMA: Hoping you have a wonderful Birthday on June 21. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X RENDELL – TIA: Wishing our wonderful daughter, Tia, a very happy 12th Birthday on June 20. May all your dreams come true! Lots of love from Mum and Dad. X RENDELL – TIA: Hope you have a lovely Birthday on June 20. Love from your brother Aaron. X RENDELL – TIA: Lots of love on your 12th Birthday on June 20. Love from all your family and friends. X SANSOM – CHRIS: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 21. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X SCHAFER – IAN: We hope you had a great Birthday

on June 1. Love from all your family and friends. X SEYFRIED – BEN: Wishing you a wonderful Birthday on June 22. Love from all friends and family – have a fabulous day! X SIMON – HENRY: Love and best wishes to you on your Birthday on June 4 from all your family and friends. X SIMON – HENRY: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 4. Love from everyone within the School in a Bag charity family. X SIMON – HENRY: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 4. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

SMYTH – BRIAN: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 27. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends XXX SMYTH – BRIAN: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 27 – have a great day. Best wishes from all your pals at Yeovil Town FC. SMYTH – BRIAN: Keep the faith Brian - many happy returns for your Birthday on June 27. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

STEWART – SHELLEY: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 3. Hoping you had a wonderful day. Love from all your family and friends. X STEWART – SHELLEY: Wishing a very Happy Birthday on June 3. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

THORNE – SAM: Many happy returns for your Birthday on June 22 – have a great day. Lots of love and best wishes from all your family and friends. X THORNE – SAM: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 22. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

THORPE – PAUL: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 15 – hoping you have a wonderful day. Love and best wishes from all your family and friends.

THORPE – PAUL: Many happy returns Thorpey – a YTFC Legend - for your Birthday on June 15. Best wishes from all the supporters of Yeovil Town FC.

THORPE – PAUL: Wishing you a very Happy Birthday on June 15. Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

WATTS – MARK: Congratulations on your Birthday on June 6. Love from all your family and friends. X WATTS – MARK: Have a great Birthday on June 6.

Best wishes from your friends at the Yeovil Press.

WOOLMINGTON – LYNN: Congratulations for your Birthday on June 6. Love from all your family and friends. X WOOTTEN – THOMAS: Hoping you had a wonderful lockdown 13th Birthday on June 2. Lots of love from Mum and Dad and your ever-loving sister Emily. X WOOTTEN – THOMAS: Many happy returns for

your Birthday on June 2. Hope you had a great day.

Love from all your family and friends – we’ll party when times are happier! X WOOTTEN – THOMAS: Happy 13th Birthday on June 2. Lots of love from Grandma and Uncle Jon. X WOOTTEN – THOMAS: Oh no! You’re a teenager!

Happy Birthday on June 2. Love from Steve and Christine. X WOOTTEN – THOMAS: Wow – 13 already! Hope you had a lovely Birthday on June 2. Love from Grace. X WOOTTEN – THOMAS: Hope you had a great Birthday on June 2. Love from Will, Beverley and Thea. X

www.yeovilpress.co.uk CONGRATULATIONS MESSAGES SIMON – LUKE: Congratulations to you on your epic Three Peaks Staircase Challenge and the Everest Staircase Challenge in order to raise much-needed funds for the School in a Bag charity.

RECARDO – DAVID: Congratulations on your reelection as Yeovil Mayor for a third term and your successful fundraising for the Yeovil Hospital Charity.

THANK YOU MESSAGES EMERGENCY SERVICES AND KEY WORKERS: We would like to thank our fantastic NHS, emergency services and all the other key workers who are

doing their utmost to keep everybody safe during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. We owe you so much.

33 Sparrow Road, Yeovil, BA21 4BT | 01935 479913

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

17

Donations continue to arrive for Breast Cancer Unit Appeal THE Yeovil Hospital Charity has thanked everyone for their continued support of the hospital’s £2million Breast Cancer Unit Appeal.

Although various fundraisers have been held recently to raise money for the general charity as people show their appreciation for everything the hospital is doing during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, donations are still coming in for the breast cancer appeal.

For patients who think they may have breast cancer and for those who have already had the diagnosis – a visit to hospital can be a daunting experience.

That is why Yeovil District Hospital wants these patients to receive their care in a unit that is built with privacy and dignity in mind.

Here are 11 reasons why the hospital – with your help – would dearly love to create a new Breast Cancer Unit.

1: More women are surviving breast cancer, but more are being diagnosed

than ever before.

2: One in eight women in the UK will face breast cancer in their lifetime.

3: Every 10 minutes, another woman in the UK is diagnosed with the disease.

4: The team in Yeovil treat 2,000 new patients every year and 3,000 follow-up patients.

5: Demand is increasing by five per cent every year and the hospital’s current facilities are being stretched to the limit.

6: There is currently no dedicated unit for breast cancer patients.

7: Patients are having to undress multiple times in different departments around the hospital.

8: There are no rooms available for difficult conversations.

9: Breast cancer patients wait in shared waiting areas.

10: There is currently no fitting room for prostheses and specialist underwear needed after surgery.

11: Lack of space and the use of

multiple locations affect patient privacy and dignity.

The Yeovil Hospital Charity hopes that by raising the funds needed to build a new and dedicated Breast Cancer Unit, which will become a one-stop-shop for patients with breast cancer and suspected breast cancer, the benefits of an improved environment will be so important.

The latest donations to have been made for the appeal include a fantastic £1,575

from The Beehive pub in Yeovil. The pub regulars also raised £1,400 for the Yeovil Opportunity Group. “it is surprising that be doing quizzes, bingo nights, game weekend and general ad-hoc donations how quickly the money adds up,” said Ann and Kev from The Beehive.

“We are only a small community here at the Hive, but we are growing and have a big community heart.”

Marathon relay for Honeywell apprentices

HOW TO SUPPORT THIS APPEAL ONLINE:

www.justgiving.com/campaign/breastcancerappeal

CHEQUE:

Make payable to ‘Yeovil Hospital Charity’ and send to Breast Cancer Unit Appeal, Yeovil Hospital Charity, Higher Kingston, Yeovil, BA21 4AT

PHONE:

01935 383020 to talk to the fundraising team

EMAIL:

fundraising@ydh.nhs.uk 18

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

FUNDS for the Yeovil Hospital Charity will be boosted on Friday (June 5) thanks to the efforts of apprentices at the Yeovil-based Honeywell firm.

They will be running a relay marathon in aid of the hospital because of its outstanding work in the current coronavirus pandemic.

They have got a JustGiving fundraising page entitled Honeywell Apprentathon and hope to raise at least £1,000.

A Yeovil Hospital Charity spokesman said: “Good luck to the apprentices at Honeywell who have set themselves this marathon challenge.”

Meanwhile, Preston School student Thomas Wootten, who turned 13 on Tuesday (June 2), has had his hair dyed blue to help raise funds for the Yeovil Hospital Charity. Well done Tom! PHOTO: The Honeywell apprentices.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

VE DAY - 75TH ANNIVERSARY VICTORY IN EUROPE - WE WILL REMEMBER THEM FOUR-PAGE PULL-OUT - FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020

People remember the sacrifices made 75 years ago COMMEMORATIONS took place on May 8 as the nation remembered the events of 75 years ago when it was declared that hostilities with Germany in the Second World War were over.

As we all know the ongoing coronavirus pandemic meant that planned events had to be cancelled and there was a call for people to still celebrate the milestone anniversary by holding a “stay at home street party.”

The day was blessed with lovely

weather and people were able to celebrate the day by holding a tea parties and raising a glass or two outside in their gardens.

It might not have been the celebrations we had been expecting – but it was still a memorable occasion.

Many thanks to everyone who sent their VE Day party photos to the Yeovil Press – printed on Pages 19-22 are just some of the pictures we received.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

19

VE DAY 75 - WE WILL REMEMBER THEM FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020

20

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

VE DAY 75 - WE WILL REMEMBER THEM FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

21

VE DAY 75 - WE WILL REMEMBER THEM FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020

STAFF and families from Milford Infants’ School in Yeovil were disappointed to cancel their VE Day street party in school - but did not the let VE Day 75th anniversary go by quietly.

Children were asked to design their own VE medal and make bunting to decorate their windows and homes to remember those who gave their lives for

22

our country many years ago.

Children, parents and staff also baked cakes and delicious treats to hold their own tea parties at home or take part in socially distanced street parties.

A full album of VE Day 75 celebration photographs can be seen on the school website at www.milford-inf.somerset/ sch.uk/summer-2020/

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Leonardo Helicopters manufacture PPE to help in coronavirus battle

YEOVIL MP Marcus Fysh visited Leonardo Helicopters to see how the company is working through the covid-19 restrictions.

The factory in Lysander Road has been leading the way in continuing to work whilst having social distancing measures in place with staff also working in shifts and at home where possible.

They have also made a huge contribution to the local effort on personal protection equipment – better known as PPE - by designing and manufacturing reusable masks for the NHS. No Leonardo staff have been furloughed as work continues on critical programmes meaning the company has avoided unnecessary business interruption whilst also saving the taxpayer money.

Mr Fysh met with new managing director Nick Whitney and his team as well as union representatives to thank them for their efforts at this challenging

time and discuss future opportunities.

“It was great to visit Leonardo again and in particular to see the really positive approach they are taking towards beating the coronavirus,” said Mr Fysh.

“Other local companies like Honeywell and Numatic are also doing a huge amount to make the kit we need to save lives and keep people safe. I am so proud of what we are doing in Somerset to beat this terrible virus.”

And Mr Fysh added: “As we see the beginning of the relaxation of some of the rules in place to stop the virus, Leonardo is a shining example of how we can get businesses and the economy firing again.”

For the latest information on Government guidelines visit https:// www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

PHOTO: Marcus Fysh (right) with Nick Whitney and team at Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil in early May.

* Fully designed, planned & supplied kitchens and bathrooms * We can also supply bespoke kitchens designed and built to order & your specification * Dedicated plumbing, maintenance, plastering and decoration team * Full design & build service for extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions and more If you require any essential maintenance to be carried out during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak you can still rely on Grinters.

Office staff are set-up at home and will be more than happy to assist you in this time of need – just call 01460-258949 or email matt@grinters.co.uk

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

23

Consultants unite online to battle through coronavirus lockdown SLIMMING World consultants in the Yeovil area have recently launched a new team Facebook page to keep their current and potential future members up to date with developments as the Covid-19 virus continues to affect their group sessions.

Team YESAND (Yeovil, East Somerset and North Dorset) is made up of consultants from Yeovil, Martock, Somerton, Gillingham and Wincanton.

Since the lockdown began at the end of March they have been working as a team to support each other and recently won an award within their District for inspiring other teams to emulate their success, including the launch of the

Facebook page.

The page was launched on May 9 and had achieved over 500 likes over the course of its first weekend, and to date a video promoting virtual groups which parodies a popular ABBA song has been viewed by 13.9k people.

The page is being regularly updated with consultant information, recipes and news, including the launch of the new ‘Passion for Pasta’ recipe book - and will also be updated with news as it develops about when groups can re-open in their usual venues once current Government restrictions have been lifted.

For now, groups are still running virtually with everyone on the YESAND

team keen to welcome new and returning members along to their weekly sessions.

The support, friendship, love and motivation that creates the feeling found in Slimming World groups is the same whether the sessions happen in person or virtually.

Visit the new facebook page by searching ‘Slimming World Yeovil Area’ or contact a Consultant individually for more information.

FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM YEOVIL AND SURROUNDING AREAS VISIT

WWW.YEOVILPRESS.CO.UK

Win a wedding after lockdown heartbreak KIND-HEARTED officials at Dillington House near Ilminster have launched a fantastic Win a Wedding competition – worth over £10,000 - to any happy couple-to-be who have had to cancel their big day for this year and lost money because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Dillington staff were horrified when they saw reports on the news about couples having to cancel their weddings due to the lockdown and not getting their money back from some unscrupulous and heartless venues and suppliers.

“This was awful to hear and such a shame that a handful of the wedding industry suppliers were cashing in on these poor people, when we’d only experienced so many of them, including ourselves, bending over backwards to accommodate the cancelations and postponements whilst trying to emotionally support distressed couples in their realisation that their dream day wasn’t going ahead,” said a Dillington spokesman.

“It got us all thinking at Dillington.

We work like a family when it comes to organising a wedding and after talking

24

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

amongst our lovely colleagues and fantastic suppliers, who all work with us on a regular basis, we thought we should give something back and try and help either some of these people, some of our frontline workers, or even people that may have been so badly affected by the lockdown that they have had to put their wedding plans off or because they simply can’t afford to get married anymore.”

Dillington has now teamed-up with a long list of suppliers provide an entire wedding package at the impressive venue for up to 40 guests.

Among the suppliers who have agreed to help are Yeovil’s Funtasia Entertainment and Ilminster-based businesses Prima Moda Brides and Cottage Flowers.

All details and terms and conditions can be found on Dillington House’s website at www.dillington.com or you can nominate someone through Dillington’s social media Facebook page.

“The response so far has been incredible and we are hearing from so many lovely people,” said the Dillington spokesman.

“Entries close on Tuesday, June 30, and we’ll be announcing the winner on Wednesday, July 15.”

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Inner Wheel ladies support hard-working medical workers WHEN it became apparent that medical workers needed bags to place their scrubs in for washing, Yeovil Inner Wheel Club was fortunate that member Margaret Spurr - as chairman of the Friends hospital shop at Yeovil District Hospital - had just the right contact.

Margaret and fellow member Carol Price both made bags and some of Margaret’s friends also made bags with the result that altogether an amazing 126 bags were delivered to the hospital.

One of the bags in the photo has a Nurse’s Prayer attached to it.

Margaret and one of her friends have now also made scrubs.

Several members of the club are on the committee of the Friends of Yeovil Hospital Charity and the charity recently supplied 500 wooden hearts that can be written on by a loved one to give to a relative in the hospital.

The Inner Wheel’s motto of Together

We Can is very much coming to the fore during these difficult times.

For further information about Yeovil Inner Wheel Club please email membership@innerwheelclubofyeovil. org.uk .

Yoga really is for everybody - so open your mind and take time out MOST people think that in order to benefit from a regular yoga practice you must be flexible, young and healthy.

But fully trained Yeovil-based yoga teacher Debbie Calleja-Atkins, of InYoga, who is also a holistic therapist, is looking to get the message across that yoga is for everybody.

“At InYoga, over the years, I have strived to portray yoga for what it truly is – a practice that embraces each individual human being, regardless of size, age, gender and race,” she said. “Yoga really is for everybody.

“The only thing you need to bring to your mat with you is an open mind, a willingness to take time out from the everyday hustle for yourself, to listen to the messages your body is constantly sending and to learn to love yourself.”

Debbie added: “Over the years, my style of teaching yoga has evolved to accommodate the needs of the students that I teach.

“These past few years have been dedicated to developing a style which I have aptly called Yoga for Mindfulness and Relaxation, purely because it does just that.

“This practice aims to still your mind, teach you how to be mindful of your body and to ease yourself into a state

of relaxation. All this, whilst practising yoga poses and mindful movements which help to increase muscle strength, flexibility and endurance to name but a few benefits.”

Debbie said a Kundalini Yoga class leaves you feeling like you’ve gone to therapy, had an awesome workout in the gym, made it to your yoga mat and enjoyed a fun singing session with friends.

Kundalini provides a modality to connect to the teacher within you, a higher consciousness, the maximum pool of creative potential. It is the yoga of awareness that helps free us from past karma and realise our real purpose.

Debbie said: “I teach a variety of classes which are currently held online via Zoom.

I also teach one-to-one sessions, so if you’re not quite sure how to go about getting started, or have an injury or illness to consider, this would be a great introduction to the wonders of yoga.

“I’m happy to offer a brief chat to discuss our requirements, either by calling me on 07929512442 or emailing Debbie@InYoga.co.uk.

“Please check out my current timetable of online classes in my advert on this page. I very much look forward to being of service to you!”

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Yoga – Relaxation Therapy – Crystal Healing – Sound Therapy – Gong Therapy – Energy Healing – Kinesiology

Please call Debbie on 07929512442 or visit www.inholistics.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

25

DOWN MEMORY LANE

The Borough in focus - pictures of the focal point of Yeovil YEOVIL town centre has been pretty quiet over the past few months during the lockdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic as shops, offices, pubs and cafes all closed.

But now there seems to be some sort of light at the end of the tunnel and tentative moves are being made to slowly edge towards returning to normality, although we are still a long way from “normal.”

The Borough is the centre of Yeovil’s shopping area and has been the focal point for generations of Yeovilians.

In this month’s Down Memory Lane feature we take a look at The Borough.

The Down Memory Lane feature –

which was launched for the first time in the March edition of Yeovil Press – is supported by the fantastic A-to-Z of Yeovil’s History website which has been created by local historian Bob Osborn.

Bob’s fantastic work has seen him put together a website of more than 10,000 images looking back at Yeovil’s history over the years.

He has also compiled more than 20 books on an eclectic range of subjects including many about Yeovil’s past.

His latest book – Lost Yeovil – highlights many of the streets and buildings which have vanished from Yeovil’s landscape over the years.

A painting made in 1810 of The Borough looking towards High Street which runs to the distance at left. The building at the centre was the Market House, built in 1740, and behind it to the right was the butcher’s Shambles built in 1803.

This sketch, made by G. E. Madeley to illustrate his map in 1831, shows The Borough seen from High Street, roughly the view seen today from the north end of King George Street.

A painting of Under Bow, in The Borough on the corner of Grope Lane (today’s Wine Street). It is thought this painting was by photographer and artist Frederick Treble and painted during his stay in Yeovil during the late 1850s and 1860s. Under Bow was destroyed by fire in 1861.

A very early photograph by William Barrett, dating to about 1863, looking across The Borough to High Street.

This photograph was taken by Yeovil photographer Jarratt Beckett and published in his 1897 book “Somerset viewed through a Camera.”

Another photograph of The Borough by Jarratt Beckett and published in his 1897 books “Somerset views through a Camera.”

The Borough in around 1905 by which time Harry Hill and John Sawtell had taken over today’s Superdrug building (at extreme left) that had previously been the premises of H. B. and H. Petter (sons of James Bazeley Petter).

THIS FEATURE HAS BEEN SUPPORTED BY: AN A-TO-Z OF YEOVIL'S HISTORY www.yeovilhistory.info - Find out more about Yeovil's past 26

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

The Borough in around 1909.

Crowds gather in The Borough to celebrate Empire Day in 1909. Photo courtesy of Jack Sweet.

The Borough as seen from the top of St John’s Church tower and photographed in the mid-1960s.

A hand-coloured postcard showing the Town Hall seen from the The Borough in 1918.

This postcard dates 1947 and shows an unusual view of The Borough. Wine Street runs off to the left, High Street is at the top left and Middle Street runs to the bottom right corner. The gardens at bottom left mark the site of the bombed Medical Hall.

A postcard of The Borough from the 1970s.

Crossing the road in The Borough in the late 1920s.

A postcard of the late 1930s looking down Middle Street from The Borough. Note the policeman on traffic duty outside the Medical Hall, standing in a special-painted circle.

Looking across The Borough in around 1940.

The Borough decorated in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.

THIS FEATURE HAS BEEN SUPPORTED BY: AN A-TO-Z OF YEOVIL'S HISTORY www.yeovilhistory.info - Find out more about Yeovil's past For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

27

THEATRE MEMORIES Allo Allo at the Octagon Theatre with the local Project Play team in 2019. Photo: Christine Jones.

Fame in 2019 at Westfield Academy with junior members of the Yeovil Amateur Pantomime Society. Photo: Christine Jones.

Legally Blonde in 2018 at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil with the Yeovil Youth Theatre group. Photo: Christine Jones.

Yeovil Amateur Pantomime Society with Jack and the Beanstalk at the Octagon Theatre in 2019. Photo: Christine Jones.

Peter Pan with the Castaway Theatre Group at the Octagon Theatre in 2015.

Photo: Christine Jones.

A fantastic Christmas Concert at the Westlands Yeovil entertainment venue in December 2019. Photo: Christine Jones.

Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society with the musical Nine to Five at the Octagon Theatre in 2017. Photo: Christine Jones.

Chicago with members of the Yeovil Youth Theatre group at the Octagon Theatre in 2019. Photo: Christine Jones.

Jesus Christ Superstar with members of the Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society at the Octagon Theatre in 2017. Photo: Christine Jones.

Abba Mania with the StageDance group at Westfield Academy in Yeovil in 2018.

Photo: Christine Jones.

Sister Act with Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society at the Octagon Theatre in 2014.

Photo: Christine Jones.

28

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

We must support our local theatres after lockdown has ended THEATRES up and down the country have been closed for several months now due to the coronavirus pandemic.

They were among the first places to close their doors as part of the lockdown.

People may remember that the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil shut on March 23 – midway through Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society’s run of The Sound of Music.

While theatres have been closed and losing much-needed revenue, theatrical groups have also been forced to cancel

or postpone shows and think again about how they can rehearse together and safely with the Zoom digital technology coming into play.

But it all means that that local theatres and entertainment venues and the groups that use them will need our support once we are back to normal and they are in operation.

Here we share some photographic memories of local shows at local theatres.

Members of the Helen Laxton School of Dance perform at the Octagon Theatre with Everybody Dance 2019. Photo: Christine Jones.

Members of the local cast of Please Come Home – penned by Lynn Lee Brown – at the Swan Theatre in Yeovil in 2015.

Photo: Christine Jones.

The Red Rat girls of Jekyll and Hyde – from the Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society – at the Octagon Theatre in 2014. Photo: Christine Jones.

Half a Sixpence with Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society at the Octagon Theatre in 2012. Photo: Christine Jones.

Hairspray with the Yeovil Musical Theatre Company in 2014 at the Octagon Theatre. Photo: Christine Jones.

Oliver with the Castaway Theatre Group at the Swan Theatre in Yeovil in 2014.

Photo: Christine Jones.

The Addams Family with the Yeovil Youth Theatre in 2014 at the Octagon Theatre. Photo: Christine Jones.

The Sound of Music with the Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society at the Octagon Theatre in 2011. Photo: Christine Jones.

The Castaway Theatre Group with Sleeping Beauty at the Swan Theatre in Yeovil back in 2014. Photo: Christine Jones.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Bring it On with Motiv8 at the Octagon Theatre in 2015. Photo: Christine Jones.

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

29

The Newt wins prestigious planning excellence award SOUTH Somerset District Council is delighted to announce that The Newt in Somerset was named as the winner of the Royal Town Planning Institute’s Excellence in Planning for Heritage and Culture Award at a virtual ceremony.

The nomination arose from a joint submission by the council and AZ Urban Studio, agents for the project.

The RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence are the most established and respected awards in the UK planning industry. Running for over 40 years, they celebrate exceptional examples of planning and the contribution planners make to society.

The project, which is ongoing, succeeded within a national short list of ten schemes and represents a heritageled diversification of a traditional country estate, transforming the Grade II listed Hadspen House and extensive heritage landscape into a major regional visitor attraction near Bruton in South Somerset.

When the Hadspen House estate was sold in 2013 after more than two centuries in the Hobhouse family, the new owners brought with them a vision for change and investment.

Six years later the estate opened to the public as The Newt with historic buildings and landscape restored and put back to productive use, and new buildings and gardens completed to serve the anticipated 100,000 annual visitors.

Delivering such large-scale transformation in a rural historic environment has involved close partnership working with South Somerset District Council’s planning team and other stakeholders over a number of years.

Simon Fox, the council’s lead specialist for planning, said: “Winning this award is a real tonic for the team and the culmination of many years work by various officers with AZ Urban Studio, moreover our district has a fantastic attraction that showcases the very best of Somerset and creates local employment.”

Martin Harradine, planning director at AZ Urban Studio, added: “This is a real reward for the positive and collaborative planning work that has gone into creating The Newt in Somerset, and we hope that it continues to inspire planners to work together to solve problems and shape the transformation of sensitive places.”

Cllr Tony Lock, spokesman for

protecting core services at the council, said: “This is an example of the good work our planning team does every day and I’m really glad this scheme and the work that has gone into it has been recognised.

The owner should be applauded for the investment he has made into the local area, the visitor attraction that has resulted and the employment that has been created.”

Although The Newt has temporarily closed its hotel and restaurants in line with Government policy during the

coronavirus pandemic, its farm shop remains open with essential foods of various sorts and it is also offering free home delivery within 15 miles. The Newt’s online shop is also open.

PHOTO: Aerial photograph looking northwards across the central gardens area, with the many new visitor buildings and cider press in the centre beyond the gardens, and the refurbished, extended and converted Grade II Hadspen House to the left.

Jonny hoists the flag for VE Day. THE Quicksilver Mail pub at the top of Hendford Hill in Yeovil may have been closed for the past few months because of the coronavirus restrictions, but it still wanted to play its part in the recent VE Day 75 anniversary celebrations.

But who could the pub get to clamber up on the roof to hoist the Union flag?

Simple solution – well-known local roofer extraordinaire Jonny Hemmings!

“A very happy VE Day to all the friends of the Quicksilver,” said the pub’s social media Facebook page. “We miss all our customers dearly and we are looking

forward to raising a glass as soon as we can.

“We have to say special thanks to Jonny Hemmings who scaled the pub roof like a simian to hoist our new flag for VE Day. Thank you Hembo!”

Many of the pubs in Yeovil joined in with the VE Day celebrations by decorating the outside of their buildings with bunting despite being closed to the public.

Among those to do so was the Pen Mill Hotel on Sherborne Road and The Beehive in Huish.

Pictured above right and inset: Jonny Hemming up on the roof and back on the ground at the Quicksilver. Courtesy of the Quicksilver Mail’s Facebook page. Pictured above left: The Beehive in Huish.

STAFF at the Knoll Nursing Home in Yeovil held a special Alice in Wonderland Day recently to help raise a few smiles during these dark days of coronavirus.

Staff members dressed up as some of the characters from the much-loved Lewis Carroll novel, while some of the residents also joined in the fun.

30

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

Castaway Charlie rocks it for the NHS AN AMAZING member of the Yeovilbased Castaway Theatre Group has been getting on his bike to raise money for NHS charities.

Charlie Wheeler, who is busy rehearsing at home for the group’s forthcoming production of The School of Rock, took on the challenge of cycling 300 miles over 24 days in May. “It has been a big challenge, but great fun,” he said. “I injured my wrist at one point when I fell off my bike so I had to take a couple of days off.

“Thank you so much to everyone for the kind words and for all donations.”

Charlie, 13, had set himself a target of raising £300 to equate to £1 for every mile cycled.

But he far surpassed that by amassing more than £1,300 in donations thanks to friends, family and well-wishers.

Proud mum Karen said: “When did my little boy get so grown up? It was so emotional when he completed his challenge.

“He has now raised over £1,300 – thank you all so much for supporting him with messages and donations.

“Charlie has the kindest heart and I love him to the moon and back.”

The current total on his JustGiving page stands at £1,335. Look for his fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising,Charlie-Wheeler300.

“I wanted to raise money for our NHS because they have been amazing in helping to fight the coronavirus,” said Charlie. “I was inspired by Captain Tom Moore’s fundraising efforts and I decided that I would like to help as well.”

Charlie will be taking to the stage of the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil for the Castaways production of The School of Rock from August 20-22 – fingerscrossed.

Lynn Lee-Brown, founder of Castaways, said: “We’ve got some fantastic children in Castaways who have been working so hard despite these difficult times as they prepare for School of Rock.

“Charlie’s efforts for the NHS have been amazing and everyone at Castaways would like to congratulate him.”

WWW.YEOVILPRESS.CO.UK

Online together at the Octagon THE Octagon Theatre in Yeovil has launched a new initiative which will bring audiences together in the comfort of their own homes during the coronavirus lockdown.

“We are pleased to be launching the Octagon Online Together initiative,” said a spokesman for the award-winning theatre.

“With support from Arts Council England, we are delighted to present our programme of activity designed to bring our community together whilst at home.

“Over the coming months we will be live-streaming our Octagon Academy classes directly into homes across the county, introducing our brand new entertainment quizzes hosted by your most loved panto cast members, and uploading our summer series of creative arts workshops and tutorials! Plus, on top of all this, we will be hosting Somerset’s first online flash mob!”

Other online opportunities include

theatre and film industry talks, community talent contests, interactive family activities and the ‘Let’s SHiNE Together’ community dance video.

The spokesman said: “These online activities will enable us to celebrate local talent and bring people together during the closure.

“Our online programme of activity will offer support to local artists and practitioners to create community engagement projects that will encourage a regional wide interaction with the arts.

“We will be commissioning local arts organisations and artists to create a range of online activity accessible for all ages and abilities. Our ambition is to get Somerset quizzing together, learning from one another, and trying new things from their homes.”

Keep up-to-date with news from the Octagon by looking at its social media page on Facebook or its website at www.octagon-theatre.co.uk

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

AUGUST 20-22, 2020

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

31

32

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

SPORT NEWS

Crowdfunder campaign Martial arts teacher can't launched by Yeovil RFC wait to get started again YEOVIL Rugby Club has launched its own Crowdfunder campaign to ask for financial support during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Yeovil RFC is an amateur community club providing a safe environment for children and adults to learn, play and enjoy rugby and installing the core values of the sport - teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship.

“We provide a family friendly community facility inclusive to all, supported and run by members and volunteers,” said a spokesman on the club’s Crowdfunding page.

“With the coronavirus pandemic causing an abrupt end to the season and the Government lockdown forcing the clubhouse and grounds to close and remain closed until told otherwise we now face a summer with no current income streams.

“Events, weddings, conferences and hall hire which help to secure financial stability within the club have been cancelled or postponed leaving us with no revenue during these difficult times.

“As you can imagine this has put pressure on our facilities – and with much-needed maintenance ongoing within the infrastructure of the club we would like to ask our members and the wider community to help us continue to

keep the high standards we have reached but also to help cover further outgoings.

“We require funds to help continue providing a safe environment for all our members and supporters.”

Some of the projects planned are as follows: To repair, redecorate and update the changing rooms.

To repair ventilation and fans throughout the clubhouse.

To clean, repair and update kitchen equipment.

To ensure continual maintenance of our pitches and grounds.

To help fund general maintenance of the clubhouse.

The spokesman added: “We understand there are many organisations out there requiring financial help but if you are able to and would like to donate, everything raised will ensure the club has income to continue to provide our wonderful community facility for all.”

The club has set a target figure of £20,000 for its Crowdfunder campaign and has so far amassed more than £5,000.

Various sponsorship packages are available within the campaign ranging from £25 up to £1,500.

Go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/ support-yeovil-rugby-club#start .

MEMBERS of the Kuk Sool Won of Yeovil group – traditional Korean family martial arts – are always training for the unexpected and the coronavirus pandemic has been no exception.

While the students were able to, they continued to train taking additional safety precautions - by ensuring students had access to hand sanitiser, regular water breaks and social distancing within the classes.

However, at very short notice the Government announced closure of schools and gyms so it had to temporarily close the doors to its own set-up.

School owner Steve Runnacles said: “It was with sad hearts that we said goodbye to our main home of Milford Community Hall. It had been our main home for the past five years since opening our martial arts school.

“We gave our students, their families and ourselves a little space to regroup and take stock of our changed lifestyles - all staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives.”

But moving martial arts classes online for students meant they could keep their training going; keeping physically fit and

mentally healthy during these testing times.

Steve said: “Via the power of online meeting portals, we are now running nine separate classes for our students.

“In the current uncertain times, both students and ourselves find comfort and reassurance putting on our uniforms, tying our belts and practising via the power of the internet.”

Steve added: “As instructors, it is great to see everyone’s smiling faces and to keep the connection going with our students and their families online.

“We are always looking forward – there will be a time when life will return slowly back to normality - although it may seem a long way off at the moment!”

Steve is excited to announce, however, that the school has secured its own place at Unit 21, Bartlett Court, Sea King Road on the Lynx Trading Estate in Yeovil.

“Currently we are using this unprecedented time to get the venue ready,” said Steve. “When we can restart our classes we can hit the ground running and we can’t wait to training again in person!”

Golf and tennis facilities reopen at Mudford Rec ACTIVITIES at the Yeovil Recreation Centre – more popularly known as Mudford Rec – have partially reopened following new Government guidance.

South Somerset District Council has announced that some of its facilities at the Yeovil Rec, off Mudford Road, have reopened although under strict processes.

From this month, residents adhering to social distancing guidelines will be able to enjoy mini tennis, table tennis, pitch and putt and mini golf.

A council spokesman said: “We have introduced a number of measures for your safety. All activities will need to be booked by sending an email to leisure. bookings@southsomerset.gov.uk or by phone on 01935-462616. The activities are available from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Sunday, weather permitting.

“Contactless payments will be taken on

the day on arrival and no cash payments will be permitted. Demand has already been high so please be patient.”

The latest prices can be found on the Yeovil Recreation Centre website at http://yeovilrec.co.uk/open-times-andprices/pricelist .

Families from the same household can participate or, currently, five individuals from separate households due to space limitations which impact on social distancing.

All activity slots will be limited to 60 minutes. Customers will be escorted to the activity site from the Jon O’Donnell pavilion and our staff will adhere to social distancing rules.

No food or drink will be allowed on site and facilities in the pavilion will be closed to the public. Food and drink will be available from The Galley.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

The restrictions for each outdoor activity are as follows: Mini Golf/Pitch & Putt: All equipment will be cleaned and wiped before and after usage. Club and balls will need to be returned to the bucket provided and must not be handed to other customers or staff. Each party will get one round to play all nine holes. Bookings will be kept 20 minutes apart and only two parties will be allowed on the course at any one time. Each party gets a maximum of two allocated slots per week. Parties are asked to bring their own pencils for scoring.

Mini tennis: Customer musts bring their own equipment. Tables and nets will be sanitised between bookings.

Tennis Courts: Customers must bring their own equipment. Court gates and nets will be sanitised after every use.

There is a maximum of three booking per

week per party.

If you need any further information, please contact 01935-462616.

Additionally, the council has been able to open the Ninesprings Café in Yeovil Country Park as a takeaway service.

Opening times are from 10am to 4pm seven days a week.

“We have put measures in place to protect staff and customers and we are implementing a one in and one out policy,” added the council spokesman.

“There will be a menu at the entrance of the cafe along with any other relevant information. We will also be asking for contactless payment for the safety of the public and staff.

“We would also like to remind residents that, following Government guidance, all play equipment in our parks remain closed at this time for your safety.”

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

33

Skittles tables from the 2019-20 campaign PROVISIONAL final tables from the Yeovil Skittles League and the list of competition winners have been published by league officials.

The 2019-20 season finished four weeks early because of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown with league matches and Nomination Cup ties outstanding.

The tables for Division One and Division Three have been done on a points per game basis due to teams not all playing the same number of games due to the byes in those divisions.

Due to this the final tables will need to be ratified at the next meeting of team captains, but league officials realise that not everyone will be happy with the outcome.

“We have looked at other ways to decide the places where teams are Yeovil Skittles League Provisional Final Tables Division One

Westland Choppers Gazelles Young Lions Wessex Wyverns Sparks Three at a Time Let Em Roll RAOB B Hounds

Mother’s Boys Spartans Gap Finders Cannon Fodder Mud Dogs The Drop Outs Bradford Sports JP Boys Labour Pains Mind the Gap

P 13 13 14 13 13 14 13 13 14

Pts 102 96 99 81 74 79 63 62 64

PPG 7.84 7.38 7.07 6.23 5.69 5.64 4.84 4.76 4.57

Division Two P Pts 15 125 15 121 15 115 15 98 15 80 15 76 15 76 15 76 15 71 15 62

Division Three

P Plan Bee 14 Barn Again 13 Pin Heads 14 Morley Exiles 13 X Rays 13 Hendford Halt 13 Bull Inn 13 Drink Up The Lyder 13 Taste the Rainbow 14

Pts 113 104 99 91 81 76 64 64 28

PPG 8.07 8.00 7.07 7.00 6.23 5.84 4.92 4.92 2.00

Yeovil and District Sports Skittles League (Tables up to and i ncluding Friday, March 13) Division One

Hammers Herky Snerkys Nightcrawlers Yellow Wagtail B Tripods FK Rebels Hornets Waverly Bros Jager Bombers

34

P 22 22 21 22 22 21 21 22 22

Pts 37 34 32 32 30 28 24 23 18

affected by points per game versus points scored versus games played between the teams and they all either leave the results as points per game or in the battle of the bottom three in Division One end up with a different team at the bottom of the table in all options,” said a spokesman on the league’s social media Facebook page.

“As the committee’s teams are all affected by any decision about how to finalise the positions it is only fair that these tables are confirmed at a league meeting.

“With the restrictions on pubs and clubs still in place until at least July 4 the annual meeting of the league will be postponed until we have a better understanding of when we can start the new season and what restrictions we would have to adhere to with regards to social distancing.”

Any outstanding league fees will be due at the annual meeting.

Officials will be in touch with team captains to try and determine whether they will be entering for the 2020-21 season.

Yeovil Skittles League trophy winners: Division One winners Westland Choppers; Division One runners-up Gazelles; Division Two winners Mother’s Boys; Division Two runners-up Spartans; Division Three winners Plan Bee; Division Three runners-up Barn Again.

Bond Cup (highest score in Dening Cup) – winner E. Gold (Labour Pains) 68; John Halford Cup (highest score in Nomination Cup) – winner S. Waddleton (Westland Choppers) 56; Jack Burgess Cup (highest spare of 19plus) – winner W. Norman (Pin Heads) 24; Norman Arnold Cup (highest away

average for nomination) – winner A. Northover (Three at a Time) 46.71; Edward Mitchell-Gears Cup (highest away average for ordinary skittles) – winner P. Lewis (Spartans) 50.86; Mike Dyer Cup (Captain’s Cup) – winner E. Hamblett (Mind the Gap) 51, runnerup A. White (JP Boys) 50; Highest Away Score Nomination – winner N. Brown (Westland Choppers) 75; Highest Away Score for Ordinary Skittles – winner M. Bastable (Drink Up The Lyder) 69.

Ron Livingstone Cup (Sticker-Up Cup): Division One winner J. Jarman (Three at a Time), runner-up M. Drayton (Westland Choppers); Division Two winner B. Green (JP Boys), J. Taylor (Mud Dogs); Division Three winner M. Stephenson (Morley Exiles), runner-up H. Bowers (Hendford Halt).

Phoenix Bradford Outcasts Croc’s Lot Cretins Debaggers* Points Deducted *

Outsiders Great Lyde Able Eight

Bolters Poachers Skittlers Inc Rollers Great Lyde Young Uns Troubleshooters

22 21 22 22 22

13 10 8 7 6

Division Two

P Pts Livin’ on a Spare 22 38 Flung Together 22 28 VAD 22 26 Combo 22 26 Dropouts 22 24 Richard Edwards* 22 22 Occasionals 22 21 Ooo Unlucky 22 20 Nightriders 22 20 Dad’s Army 22 17 Westland Ex App B* 22 16 Mildmay Boys 22 16 Rejects 22 16 Rovers 22 14 Points Deducted * Division Three

P Pts The Bowling Stones 22 31 Game On 22 30 Elite 22 30 Bell Sharks 22 30 Fluids 21 26 RML Sports 22 26 Wessex Plus 22 21 Let It Roll 22 18 Has Beens 22 18 Maybees 22 18 Oakers 21 16 The Artists* 22 16 Pacemakers 22 14 Casuals 22 10 Points Deducted * Division Four

P Mavericks 22 Oak Originals 22 Labour Club 22 Split Pins 22 Nondescripts 22 Screwballs 22 Here 4 The Beer 22 Misfits 22 RAFA 22 Gangbangers 22 Par Eight 21

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

Pts 44 36 31 30 26 21 20 19 18 16 16

21 22 22

Division Five

P That’s How We Roll 21 Lush Puppies 20 Mind the Gaps 21 Motiv8 20 YESS Club 20 Mudboys 20 Nomads* 20 Ron Burgundy 20 Back from the Dead 21 Playboys 20 Yeovil Sports Club B 21 Kinnells 20 Marston Boys 20 Points Deducted *

13 8 8 Pts 34 34 26 24 24 23 20 20 18 17 12 6 4

Stoke Skittles League Division One

Red Devils The Tassive Mits Anthill Mob Pete’s Pirates Six Amigos Balls in Hand Liquor & Poker Nucking Fumpties Friday Rejects Pins & Balls

P 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16

Pts 30 21 21 18 16 14 12 11 10 6

Division Two

P The Untouchables 19 Ball Boys 19 Dynamo Yeovil 18 Headhunters 18 Warriors 18 Dangle Berries 18 Peeweets 18 Stoke Rangers 18 Reckers 18 Yeovil Sports Club 18 Jacket Spuds 18

Pts 34 24 22 22 21 17 16 14 13 10 7

Division Three P 15 15 15 15

Pts 22 20 16 16

Let Em Roll Mud Dogs Tintinhull Boys Lynx

15 15 15 16 9 16

14 14 12 12 10 10

Yeovil Ladies Skittles League Division One

Nightingales Mix & Match Square Pegs Sugar & Spice Sparklets Tourers Denners Real Thing Queen Bees Huneez Press Gang Houndstone Ladies Bee Gees Griffinettes

Winoes The Wags Rare Birds Jelly Babies Bush Babies Dolly Mixtures Lady Byrds Rate Players Hopefuls Optimists Westland Ladies Artful Dodgers

Royal Marine Marmite Girls Ball Teasers Off the Rails Rebels Oakers Ladies Liberal Ladies Saints Up & Coming Hit & Mrs Lydettes Preston Belles

P 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21

Pts 33 28 26 26 25 25 24 22 19 18 16 14 10 20

Division Two P 17 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

Pts 26 24 24 23 22 18 18 17 16 12 10 4

Division Three P 17 18 17 19 19 18 17 18 19 17 17 17

Pts 34 30 24 22 21 19 18 14 14 10 6 2

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

The greatest Yeovil player you've probably never heard of YEOVIL Town fan and keen historian, MICHAEL WEST, delves into the amazing world of the club’s rich and vibrant past.

THIS year sees the 125th anniversary of The Glovers – Yeovil Town Football Club.

The history books say that the club originally started in 1895 as Yeovil Casuals, although it was not until after the Second World War that the club’s name reverted to Yeovil Town.

During those 125 years players have come and gone, however, for some their achievements in the Green and White will always be held in the annals of Glovers’ history and in the memories of the fans. Pre-war goalscoring sensation Johnny Hayward, FA Cup giant-killing hero Eric Bryant, and late 1960s and early 1970s cult hero Cliff Myers amongst others, all legends who will never be forgotten.

But there is one player though that will probably never be mentioned. A player who can go down in history as to be the only Yeovil player to be picked for the full England team - his name being Gilbert Claude Vassall.

Vassall, or Cheese as he was affectionally known to his friends, was born in Hardington Mandeville in 1876, one of 13 children of William Vassall, the vicar of the Parish.

At the advent of Yeovil Casuals, Vassall became the star of the team, spending his weekdays studying at Oxford University and weekends turning out at Pen Mill, the Yeovil’s ground until 1920.

Whilst at Oxford, his sporting abilities did not go unnoticed. In the late 1800s, a side called The Corinthians were formed, a side that played by amateur principles who saw the professional players as “against the spirit of fair play”, also refusing to play in leagues.

The Corinthians called upon the best amateur players around and Vassall became one of their star men; mixing his time playing for Yeovil most weekends and Corinthians when they toured.

Now Corinthians may have been amateur, however, they became one of the best teams in the country. Playing the FA Cup winners in a forerunner of today’s Charity Shield - they rarely lost.

Gilbert’s performances for Corinthians and I dare say Yeovil meant that the England selectors came calling for him in 1899 for an international against Ireland at Roker Park, the then home of Sunderland FC. Gilbert had a dilemma though, on the same day he was chosen as captain for the Oxford University team to play Cambridge in the Varsity match. He chose the prestige of captaining his university and refused England. He was

never chosen again by the national team.

He continued to play for Yeovil up until 1902 and eventually moved to Oxford to become a schoolmaster. He died there in 1941 aged 65.

But his name should always be remembered: Gilbert Claude Vassall Yeovil, Corinthians and England.

PHOTO: Gilbert Claude Vassall.

Flag brings back memories for Yeovil Town fan Gordy YEOVIL Town fan Gordy Rogers sent us this photo of his Union flag flying proudly from his home to celebrate the VE Day 75 anniversary.

Gordy was keen to tell the Yeovil Press that the flag had seen “service” while following Yeovil Town and England at away day football matches – when it used to have the words Yeovil Town FC stitched onto it.

“This was the flag that got buried under the rubble when a wall collapsed at Basingstoke FC during the AC Delco Cup Final which saw Yeovil beat Hayes 3-1 in May 1988 thanks to goals from Andy Wallace, Paul Randall and Mick Doherty,” explained Gordy.

“But the flag’s most famous appearance came at half-time at the World Cup SemiFinal between Germany and England at Italia ’90.

“When the referee blew the whistle for half-time the TV cameras panned around and the flag was in shot for the

whole world to see!”

Pictured below: Gordy Rogers.

Pictured right: The Union flag flying at Gordy’s home in Yeovil.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

35

Club owner humbled by generosity of fans YEOVIL Town fans are proving they are some of the best supporters in the land having donated more than £35,000 to the club’s Crowdfunder campaign which was launched because of the coronavirus pandemic.

With the football season coming to an abrupt halt because of the coronavirus outbreak, the club has been plunged into financial chaos, with still no further concrete news about what is going to happen to conclude the 2019-20 campaign.

But cometh the hour – cometh the Glovers’ fans.

At the time of writing on Thursday, June 4, a total of £36,238 had been donated by nearly 400 supporters – with the club having set a renewed target goal figure of £40,000 with the fund being extended until 10pm on June 30.

So there is still time for people to take a look and to show their support for the Glovers.

An initial £25,000 target was exceeded

36

late last month when the Glovers Trust supporters’ group added in the £5,000 it had collected via its separate Crowdfunder exercise. This means that next season the away stand will be named “The Martin Baker – Glovers Trust Terrace” in memory of well-known fan Martin ‘Badger’ Baker who died in the first-half of the season.

Club chairman Scott Priestnall (pictured) said he had been “humbled” by the support of fans.

“This support is truly humbling - to

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

have such backing in these difficult times is really incredible and speaks volumes for the character for the club’s supporters and their affinity for Yeovil Town FC,” he said. To break the £35k mark is brilliant news not only for the club but also for the Yeovil Hospital Charity who will get ten per cent of the final total raised, which is currently over £3,500 and counting.

“In addition to this and the NHS bundles that have been purchased, I will be giving a further 100 tickets to our home games next season to Yeovil Hospital Charity to distribute to NHS staff as a small token of

Rendell said: “It’s been a fantastic response from the Yeovil Town fans to surpass the £35k mark. All supporters’ groups and fans have come together to achieve this sum of money for the club and the NHS. We are getting back to becoming a family club again.”

Rich’s comments were echoed by Glovers’ Trust chairman Stuart Burrell.

“To reach the Trust donation target with over a week to spare and to see the club smash its goal with two weeks remaining is incredible and really highlights the fantastic support that both campaigns

our thanks for their extraordinary efforts in the community.”

Mr Priestnall also commented on differencing ways fans have contributed.

“Many individual fans have been digging deep to help out, but in addition some fans have been arranging larger contributions via competitions they have set up and many of the Supporters Alliance Groups making significant contributions informally via their members,” he said.

“I understand groups like the Disabled Supporters’ Association and Green and White Supporters’ Club used this method of contributing whilst the Glovers Trust raised an impressive £5k via their parallel Crowdfunder which means that next season the away end will be partly named in honour of Martin Baker – a fitting tribute to someone who did so much to for the club over the years.

“All this support combined with strong backing for the Crowdfunder from the Green Army YTFC Supporters’ page and Ciderspace Facebook and twitter pages has been outstanding - there could be no better example of the club motto Achieve

by Unity being enacted. To everyone who has contributed I thank you on behalf of our club – your immense support will not be forgotten.”

Supporters’ Alliance chairman Rich

have received to date.

“We are so grateful to those who have backed the Crowdfunder and are pleased to be able to offer support to the club during such uncertain times. It will also be fantastic to see the sponsorship tribute to Martin Baker when it is safe to get back to business!”

Sarah Cherry, of the Yeovil Hospital Charity, said the fundraising from the community in such difficult times had been “phenomenal.”

“The community spirit from this town has been phenomenal during this period and to be supported by our local football club is fantastic,” she said.

“We are so grateful to all of Yeovil Town Football Clubs fantastic supporters, who have now raised £3,500 for our hospital!

“This money will enable us to make such a difference for our staff and to also receive an incredible number of football tickets to share with the staff is just brilliant.

“This will enable us to continue to boost morale during this challenging period. Thank you to each and every one of you who has made this possible.”

The club Crowdfunder page can be found at https://www.crowdfunder. co.uk/yeoviltown

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

THESE are the items which are available within Yeovil Town’s Crowdfunder page – which can be found at https://www. crowdfunder.co.uk/yeoviltown. Please note that some items available have a maximum number for sale – so do not delay. £50 or more: Glovers Supporter Bundle: See your name up in lights on our scoreboard and printed in the Yeovil Town matchday programme at a game of your choosing (2020-21 season). Receive a letter from first-team manager signed

by Darren Sarll, thanking you for your generosity. Limited Edition - the game that never was: Programme and ticket.

A “thank you” through one of the club’s social media channels and a “thank you” on the club website. £25 or more: NHS Supporter Bundle: Buy a Main Stand Seat ticket for NHS staff. These will then be added to those the club is already donating. Contribute to the acquisition of an NHS flag which will be displayed in the away stand ahead of kick-off in the next Yeovil Town home league match, for which NHS staff will be featured. A “thank you” through one of the club’s social media channels. £50 or more: End of Season/Summer Dinner: When safe to do so the club will be hosting an end of season/summer dinner in the Alec Stock Lounge at Huish Park. As well as enjoying a three-course meal, those attending can hear the thoughts of the chairman and first team manager about the way forward at Huish Park £50 or more: Glovers Reward 1: Two adult match tickets in any home stand for any Yeovil Town home league fixture in the 2020-21 season. £75 or more: Glovers and NHS Supporters Combo: Everything included in NHS Supporter Bundle and Glover’s Supporter bundle. £75 or more: Glovers Reward 2: Four tickets to a 2020-21 league home Yeovil Town game of your choice and a “thank you” in the match programme and a Huish Park stadium tour. £75 or more: Home and Away Shirt 2020-21: Be one of the first supporters to get your hands on both the Yeovil Town FC new home and away shirts for the 2020-21 season. £100 or more: Junior Football Team Matchday Experience: You will receive four adult tickets and 15 under-12 match tickets for a 2020-21 home Yeovil Town league match. The experience includes a pre-match pitch side team photo (printed and signed by the first team), the opportunity to form a Guard of Honour for the teams, a shout-out in the matchday programme and a half-time penalty shoot-out on the pitch. £100 or more: Glovers Half-Time Challenge: Two Main Stand Tickets to a 2020-21 Yeovil Town league home game of choice, a “thank you” and introduction in the match day programme. Take part

in the half-time challenge on the pitch to win a prize, free programme and Huish Park stadium tour.

£100 or more: Glovers Season Ticket Reward: Already a Yeovil Town seasonticket holder? Have your name added to your seat once you have your 2020-21 season ticket and four additional tickets for a 2020-21 home game of your choice. £150 or more: Alec Stock Lounge Reward: Four tickets to a 2020-21 home Yeovil Town league game of choice to include four hot food bar snack vouchers (Not the carvery). £150 or more: Huish Park Match Day Experience: Four tickets to any 2020-21 home Yeovil Town league game, waited service to your Main Stand seat. To include arrival drinks voucher in Alec Stock Lounge Bar pre-game and half-time snack bar orders taken and delivered to you in your seat. £250 or more: Home Director Experience: Be a home director including dining with directors of both clubs, two seats in the Directors Box, half-time and full-time refreshments in the new boardroom. £250 or more: Glovers Reward 3: Ten tickets to a 2020-21 league Yeovil Town home game of your choice and one 202021 home shirt. £300 or more: The new 1895 Lounge Experience: Table of six Hospitality Experience for a home Yeovil Town league game to include a three-course meal and pre-match player interview in lounge, tea and coffee at half-time, postmatch interview with man of the match in the club’s new 1895 Lounge. £350 or more: Match Ball Sponsorship: Table of six Hospitality Experience in the new 1895 Lounge for a home Yeovil Town league game to include arrival drink, three-course meal and pre-match player interview in lounge, tea and coffee at half time, post-match interview with man of the match. Recognition in matchday programme and PA System on the day.

Present the match ball to the officials before the game. £500 or more: The new 1895 Lounge Experience: Table of ten Hospitality Experience for a home league game to include arrival drinks, three-course meal and pre-match player interview in

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

lounge, tea and coffee at half time, postmatch interview with man of the match. £500 or more: Programme Sponsorship: Table of ten Hospitality Experience for a home league game to include arrival drinks, three-course meal and pre match player interview in lounge, tea and coffee at half-time, postmatch interview with man of the match.

See the presentation by man of the match post-game, recognition in match day programme and PA system on the day. £500 or more: Away Director Experience (Two People): Be a guest of the chairman at an away league Yeovil Town fixture. Boardroom features at away games usually include free car parking, a meal in the boardroom (or equivalent) and directors box seating for the game. £1,000 or more: Corporate Away Day for up to 20 Delegates: Hire of the new Glovers lounge, Stadium Tour, Breakfast and Lunch, Tea and Coffee, Meet and Greet with first-team manager or other senior member of coaching/playing staff. £1,500 or more: Match Day Sponsorship: Enjoy the ultimate matchday experience, included are premium seats in the Main Stand, hospitality in the new 1895 Lounge with a table overlooking

the pitch, a delicious three-course meal and a visit from a first-team player pre-match. Your company logo will be displayed on the matchday programme with a full-page advert inside. Photo and presentation by your chosen man of the match post-match in the lounge following a post-match interview with him £1,500 or more: Gold Reserve: Four Season-Tickets, four 2020-21 home shirts and a bottle of Thatchers Reserve. £2,000 or more: Platinum Reward: Six Season-Tickets, six 2020-21 home shirts and a bottle of Thatchers Reserve. £8,000 or more: Executive Suite for the Season: Ten match tickets for all home Yeovil Town league fixtures, a table in the 1895 lounge for three-course meal pre-match. Three-course meal and prematch player interview in lounge, postmatch interview with man of the match.

Recognition in match day programme and PA system on the day. £20,000 or more: Main Stand Sponsorship: Naming rights of the Main Stand at Huish Park Stadium, four Season-Tickets, a table for 10 in the 1895 lounge for all Yeovil Town home fixture to include three-course meal and pre and post-match interviews, two signed and framed 2020-21 home shirts.

| SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT | | VIDEO EDITING| | PHOTO EDITING | DESIGN | | TRANSCRIPTION | | WEBSITE DESIGN | LOGO DESIGN | |BRANDING | PHOTOGRAPHY | james@jrhmedia.co.uk | 07881 237868 | www.jrhmedia.co.uk YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

37

Paddy and Hugo support the Glovers FORMER Yeovil Town player favourites Paddy Madden and Hugo Rodrigues are helping to raise money for the Glovers during the coronavirus lockdown.

Paddy Madden with the Chelsea shirt worn by Cesc Fabregas which he donated to help raise funds for Yeovil Town FC.

Madden was a hero of the Yeovil side that won promotion to The Championship back in the 2012-13 season with that memorable Play-Off Final win at Wembley Stadium against Brentford.

He left Yeovil for Scunthorpe United and is now currently plying his trade for Fleetwood Town.

Madden faced the superstars of Chelsea

during his time at Scunthorpe when they were given an away tie at Stamford Bridge in the FA Cup Third Round on January 10, 2016, where he came up against the likes of Fabregas, Willian, Diego Costa and Oscar. Chelsea ran out 2-0 winners on the day.

But he managed to get the Fabregas shirt and very kindly donated it to help raise funds for the Glovers who are facing uncertain financial times because of the coronavirus outbreak. He also donated a pair of his boots which he signed.

The Fabregas shirt was won by Jackie Simpson, while boots were won by Shane Rice.

Giant defender Rodrigues played in Yeovil Town’s first-ever season in the Football League back in 2003-04 and he has donated the shirt he wore during the Glovers’ FA Cup Third Round match with Liverpool in that campaign.

A raffle will be held – similarly to the donations given by Paddy Madden – to

Join the Glovers Trust if you feel strongly about what happens at your football club Our Club – Our Passion Standing together to make a difference

NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME

www.glovers-trust.co.uk facebook.com/gloverstrust Twitter: @gloverstrust

38

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

on Facebook for more details.

The Green Army page founder Mark Kelly is also asking the group’s 2,000-strong membership to each donate as little as £1 to a Crowdfunder initiative to raise more money for the club.

Former Yeovil Town defender Hugo Rodrigues will be wearing this shirt he wore in the Glovers’ FA Cup Third Round match with Liverpool.

win the shirt where it will cost £5 a go.

All you need to do is pay £5 and all the details on how to enter can be found on The Green Army (YTFC supporters) page on social media Facebook. Alternatively get in touch with fans Stewart Bratherton or Mark Kelly on Facebook and they will let you know what to do.

The draw will close at midnight on Sunday, June 7, with the draw taking place on the evening of Monday, June 8, with timings to be announced.

“We will arrange how to get the item to the winner, once we know who it is, and we expect Hugo to post the item direct to you,” said Stewart.

“Our sincere thanks go out to Hugo who obviously thinks a lot of our club to donate this and those of us who had the pleasure to see him play will always have fond memories of him.

“Remember you have to be in it to win it and this is a great way for us to raise funds to help our club through these trouble times.”

Other Yeovil Town items have been donated and are also being auctioned off or raffled – so go to The Green Army page

Jackie Simpson with the Cesc Fabregas shirt – donated by Paddy Madden – she won in the fundraising raffle.

“We’ve got over 2,000 members on the page and so if everyone donated just £1 – you can work out the maths,” he said.

“It would make a real difference and it’s been great to see the fans get behind the fundraising.”

Meanwhile, supporters Kieran Conway and Rodger McCabe have been doing excellent fundraising with a succession of football scratchcards which have proved extremely popular and raised £100s for the club’s main Crowdfunder appeal (turn to Pages 36-37 for more details).

The club’s supporters are really sticking to the Yeovil Town motto of Achieve By Unity.

Shane Rice and his son Tommy with the signed Paddy Madden boots they won in a fundraising raffle on behalf of Yeovil Town FC.

Badger's name remembered at Huish Park THE away stand at Huish Park – home of Yeovil Town FC – will be named in memory of well-known supporter Martin “Badger” Baker.

The club was thrown into financial turmoil earlier this year when the season came to an abrupt halt because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Fans have been quick to back a Crowdfunder initiative launched by the club and the Glovers Trust supporters’ group saw it as excellent opportunity to have Martin’s memory remembered at Huish Park.

Fans were left shocked when news filtered through that Martin had died suddenly during the early part of the 2019-20 season.

The Trust put out its own Crowdfunder appeal to raise £5,000 to pay for the

naming rights on the club’s main fundraising project for the away stand terrace at Huish Park.

Fans rallied to support the idea and the Trust’s fundraising amassed a fantastic total of £5,355.

“Thank you so much to everyone who helped to reach the sponsorship goal that will see the away stand named The Martin Baker – Glovers Trust Stand next season,” said a Trust spokesman.

“The funds that have been raised over and above the target will be used to buy shirt packages from the club’s main Crowdfunder to raffle off to those who have contributed to the Trust campaign.”

For more details on the club’s Crowdfunder intiative – turn inside to Pages 36-37.

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

A

EEK W

24 HO U

RS

– 7 DAY Y A D A S

Friendly & Helpful Service Local & Long Distance Immediate and Advanced Bookings Taken Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles 4,6,7 & 8 Seaters Available 16 Seat Minibus We charge less than the meter, so you can travel cheaper

01935 426666 www.yeovilradiocabs.co.uk For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

39

ADVERTISMENT FEATURE

5 things to look out for when buying your new fence

Since lockdown began, many of us are having fun exercising our green thumbs. Your garden is the one place you can be outside, enjoy the sun and keep busy.

As you work through your gardening checklist you may notice that your fence needs some TLC. Shelley Stewart from ColourFence Dorset & South Somerset shares what five things to check for when buying your new fence.

1. Durability You want to know that your new fence will stand the test of time. This means ensuring it can withstand harsh weather. ColourFence panels withstand gusts of wind up to 130mph, ensuring after a night of heavy rain and storms, your fence will still be standing the next morning.

“You should consider buying metal fencing over traditional timber. It’s

stronger and fares better in our unpredictable British weather,” Shelley said.

“When shopping around check the length of your warranty – this is a good sign of whether it’s a worthwhile investment or not. Our fence panels are guaranteed for 25 years and will not warp, crack, shrink, rot, peel or fade.”

2. Minimal maintenance and easy care ColourFence is a metal garden fence solution that once fitted requires no treatments or repairs. Virtually maintenance-free, just an occasional hose down with water twice a year will keep your fence looking as good as new. “Our panels are made from Colorbond high tensile steel with a layer of Zincalume that doesn’t rust and if scratched the layer forms a waterproof barrier. You will never need to repaint, stain or repair your fence again,” Shelley explained.

3. Attractiveness and versatility Both sides of the panels are the same colour meaning both you and your neighbour have a stunning fence to look at year after year, helping you build good neighbourly relations.

The fence panels come in four colours – cream, green, blue or brown. You can install the trellis in the same colour as your panels or a contrasting shade.

“Our panels are eight feet wide and include the intermediate posts, unlike standard wooden panels. Whatever the shape of your garden we can step, rake or cut your ColourFence to size, allowing your boundary to follow the natural contours of your land,” Shelley said.

4. Added security The panels have no footholds and a smooth finish. You can relax knowing your new fence will deter intruders and help maintain privacy.

“Our traditional metal garden gates are ideal for front gardens or driveways.

With the ability to choose from simple drop bolts to key operated deadlocks we

can guarantee the safety of your garden,” Shelley added.

5. Ensures privacy The team can install fence panels from one metre to 2.1m tall*, allowing you to enjoy your garden in peace and privacy. *It’s worth noting that consent is usually required for a garden fence heights over 2 metres.

Can I install my new fence during lockdown?

“It’s easy for us to arrange work on your new fence safely. We’ll coordinate with you and ask for you to coordinate with your neighbours, we will let you know how long the job will take and when we’ll arrive. We can let ourselves in, minimising our contact with you and keeping to social distancing guidelines.

Feel free to stay inside or take a walk during our visit. When visiting homes, we’re being extra careful to clean everything down before we leave and are following all government recommendations, to keep our staff and you safe and well.

For a free no obligation quotation call Shelley or Andy on 01935 481013 www.colourfencesouthsomerset.co.uk 40

YOUR new local newspaper that covers YOUR local area

For more news check out www.yeovilpress.co.uk