The Visitor Issue 351 February 2013

Add style and warmth to your home with a WOODBURNER

Your local independent monthly journal P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset. (01963) 351256

Issue 351 February 2013

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In Passing ...

S

InCE the mid-20th century the car has become a major influence on the way we live, to the point where life without a motor vehicle can be difficult.

Especially in Visitorland where there is often no simple alternative way to get to the shops or the doctor, to visit friends or go to work. Most of our local businesses are dependent on road transport to bring in their supplies, raw materials, employees and customers and to take away their products. Our public services rely on many of their staff – teachers, nurses, dustmen, policemen and the like – driving to work, for nowadays few people live on the doorstep of their workplace.

The car gives us the ability and the freedom to go where we like when we like, but life with a motor vehicle can be difficult. The roads are growing increasingly congested and journeys are taking longer.

Finding somewhere to park can be a nightmare. Road accidents account for numerous deaths and serious injuries each year. The financial costs of motoring are rising and the environmental costs could be catastrophic.

Traffic is a major bugbear in many local villages – the growing number of vehicles on the local roads, their size and, most contentious of all, the speeds at which many of them are driven. These days cars are designed to go ever faster, with rapid acceleration and host of safety devices that will supposedly protect the occupants in the event of an accident, but many drivers go so fast that they stand little chance of stopping when faced with an emergency.

Bigger, faster roads were, for decades, thought to be the answer to traffic congestion and essential for economic prosperity, so roads were straightened and widened and new roads built to enable drivers to get from A to B quicker. But by the mid-1990s the truth was dawning that building more roads simply encourages more people to drive on them and merely moves the congestion to somewhere else.

In his recent book ‘The A303: Highway to

the Sun’ Tom Fort explores the road’s entire route and the social and cultural history of the areas through which it passes, including a lengthy section on Visitorland.

He reflects that in the 1950s cars became affordable, convenient and symbols of status and aspiration, but as car ownership increased ‘too much mobility resulted in general immobility, otherwise known as congestion’. And the growing number of cars ‘despoiled the environment and polluted the air. They killed and maimed, bringing misery to the families and friends of victims.’

He suggests that ‘there is one way to alleviate congestion and that is to deter people from driving; in effect to ration it’.

Although controversial, congestion charges in cities and road tolls on motorways are tried and tested ways of doing this. Are there others?

NN.

Advertising Deadlines March edition published Thursday 28th February Deadline Monday 18th February Wells Frome • Shepton Mallet Glastonbury Bruton Street Castle Mere Cary Somerton Wincanton Gillingham langport ilchester Shaftesbury Martock Marnhull Sherborne Stalbridge • ilminster Stur. Newton Yeovil Crewkerne

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Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should ideally send uncompressed TIFs, JPEGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than size required, along with a hard copy print-out.

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The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Ltd.

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Fax: (01963) 350552

Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Proprietor, Accounts & Subscriptions Helen Dunion Production Manager Jeff Farrow Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock Printed by The Blackmore Press © The Visitor Ltd. 2013 (Items marked ©gt are the copyright of geoff thompson)

CONTENTS Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to sub zero temperatures ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 47 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 10 BOOK REVIEW - 18 BUSINESS - 8 CARE for the ELDERLY Golden Years - 11 CASTLE HOUSE NURSING HOME Keinton Mandeville, Profile - 17 CROSSWORD - 50 CYCLE BABBLE - 19 EDUCATION MATTERS - 18 GARDENING - 42 HOUSE & HOME - 21 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 19 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 30 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 32 MUSIC for the MONTH - 6 NOTICE BOARD - 8 ORANGERY BRASSERIE, Ash, Profile - 31 PAPERCHASE - 46 PHONE-A-FIRM - 48 PUBS - 38 SPRING WEDDINGS - 21 THEY SAY - 42 VALENTINE GIFTS - 20 WE HEAR - 6 WINE & DINE - 30 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR February 2013 3

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45 high Street, WiNCANToN, Somerset bA9 9Ju Tel: 01963 34880 * Fax: 01963 440525 4 THE VISITOR February 2013

Letters to the Editor Park Street

Sir, I am going to paint a completely different picture of Park Street as mentioned in the last issue of The Visitor.

My husband was born in Park Street in 1936, I was born in Park Street in 1940. There was sanitation (maybe not en-suite) but believe me we didn’t have to go behind a hedge. There was electricity. The only times we used candles was if there was a power cut.

There were no gangs (at least not the kind to be frightened of), but there were gangs of very hard working, honest, kind people.

These people were always there to give a helping hand, whatever the circumstances. If Park Street and its inhabitants were still in existence today, the world would be a better place.

I’d be interested to know who the two people are that gave P.A. Baxter their view of Park Street.

Mrs Val Holt (Nee Bower) Matthews Road Yeovil

A Thank You

Sir, Gillingham, Mere & Shaftesbury Lions Club would like to thank their very generous sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s Christmas Santa Float such a success.

Also, we would like to say a big thank you to the very generous donations that were made by the general public as the float made its way around the neighbourhood. As usual the money raised will be used to support various local charities.

Paul Homes (on behalf of Gillingham, Mere & Shaftesbury Lions Club)

Theatre Trips

Sir, It is not too late for folk to book a Red Cross Fund Raising Theatre Trip.

I am now taking bookings for a third coach to The Mousetrap at Bristol on the evening of Friday 3rd May. Please book before 14th February.

A new booking is for Scottish Opera's production of The Pirates of Penzance at Bristol Hippodrome on Tuesday 18th June.

Book on: coxtheatretrips@ btinternet.com or on 01458 273085.

Many thanks if you are able yet again to help.

Chris Cox 2 Camden Road Somerton TA11 6Rn

Cadbury Rooks

Sir, On Tuesday the 1st January, I took my dog walking on Cadbury Hill only to be shocked by evil people shooting Rooks.

Waiting in fact under the trees till they landed, then like snipers shot them out of the trees. Killing for the sake of killing, how pathetic is that.

Rooks are wonderful birds.

Living in little groups they build their nests in the highest trees and do no harm to anyone. They have more rights to be in Cadbury than the evil people who shoot them.

I have watched Rooks building their nests high up in strong winds. They are so clever and work together to create their small communities.

I personally consider these people with guns no better than the people we hear about on TV going into Schools & Villages just

to kill for the sake of killing.

I waited at the base of the Hill for the party with guns to come down. The person leading carrying two Rooks & wearing a big smirk. I felt sick at the sight of this.

What do other people think?

Dick Comer Castle Cary

Grammatical no-no or two

Sir, I agree with everything Anthony Thorp says in the Christmas/January 2013 edition, but he rather takes the gilt off the gingerbread by falling into his own trap and saying ‘I would be pleased to receive a reply’ when he ought, of course, to have said ‘I should be pleased to receive a reply’. Perhaps he will consider this a reply.

Jill Smith Church Hill Farmhouse Stalbridge Dorset

In Response

Sir, Further to the letter from Mr. Thorp in your last issue I feel I must comment. I would be first to agree that some of the grammar used in today's media is appalling, and I often cringe when I hear it. Perhaps, however, he is being a little pedantic to pick up on the 'colleague and myself' as the style of writing I adopt is, as I am sure your readers will have noticed, more than just a lean toward the informal, although grammatically he is correct in this respect and I am trying to defend the indefensible!

I think we must ask the questions 'does it make sense and is it clear and understandable?' Hopefully the answer will be a

resounding 'Yes!' In fact on more than one occasion I have been told it reads 'like I am talking to them'. Mission accomplished.

I too, have noticed the use of double-superlatives on television shows, and would definitely agree on the 'most remotest' topic. I also object to over-use of adjectives, the word 'awesome' a particular favourite at the moment I feel.

Someone used 'awesome' whilst in conversation with me recently.

I found myself saying. 'not awesome, but pretty good' After a pause the other chap said 'Yes, actually; you're right ...'

I note that the Editor added the word 'verbatim' at the end of Mr Thorp's letter. In that case perhaps he should employ his own proof reader, as I found four basic mistakes (and I only got 'O' level English) As one who uses the internet a great deal, there are plenty of reasons to think the education system needs an overhaul, as some things I have seen make no sense whatsoever. Oh, and by the way, I DID pick up on the Vinny cartoon mistake!

P. A. Baxter Dorset

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Mentioned

We Hear That on January 12th at the MidSomerset Gangs & Features Presentation, Cary Comedians won for the twentieth time ‘Best Comic Feature Club’ for Plankers in 2012. They were also runners-up in the ‘Most Appropriate Music Class’ with I’m a Lumberjack, I’m Alright,

by Michael Palin.

That a penchant for a glass of red meant that Mrs Posh of Wimborne was recently ‘stoned’ whilst enjoying The Stones.

That Castle Cary’s Dan Patrick has been known to enjoy a swim after skittles.

That after his tie was silenced Steve Goff of Ward & Sibley in Yeovil resorted to a musical pocket for the festive season.

That the wigs and excellent costumes at Chiselborough’s Christmas Cracker left the Vicar, Peter Thomas, unable to recognise his own wife.

That after getting his teeth into his recent celebration dinner Mike Hodder of Chilthorne Domer found it ‘very filling’.

That if you’re feeling a bit underthe-weather, you can always rely on the helpful staff at Booker Cash & Carry in Yeovil to give you a helping hand with your shopping.

That at a recent fancy dress event, Mike Lewis of South Petherton thought it a fine idea to go as joint captains of the Titanic with ‘sailors’ Terry and Ian, until, that is, he was was left sporting the letters ‘TIT’ after fellow sailors ‘A’ and ‘nIC’ abandoned ship.

That norman Leeks’ reclamation centre in Cambridge is doing a good trade in remotes and mobiles, accidentally thrown out with the Christmas wrapping paper.

That it may be advantageous for Castle Cary’s Brian Sylvester to keep a spare set of clothing in his locker at Westlands - just in case of future explosions.

That when the doorbell rings, June Perry of Chiselborough takes up residence behind the sofa.

That travelling in France with friends is no problem for Glyn Stuckey of Kingsbury Episcopi with Sally Traffic by his side.

That measles was rife in Castle Cary just after Christmas 100 years ago and the schools were closed for an extra three weeks.

That contributions to this column are always welcome but anonymous contributions will not be published.

6 THE VISITOR February 2013

in

Dispatches Somerset gets into its Green Routine

Saving money and having fun while cutting waste is the focus of a new year-long campaign across Somerset launched in January.

Open to both individuals and local community groups, Green Routine has 12 monthly themes to help the county’s residents keep more cash in their pockets and put less rubbish in their bins.

Green Routine is backed by Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) and builds on a successful four-week pilot programme in 2011 that attracted more than 500 people to take part. now sustained for a full year, Green Routine encourages those who sign up to explore the 12 themes, from gardening and

1st February - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 2nd February - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon

MU

Lottie Savage from Ansford Academy receives a cheque for £800 from the Bath & District Branch of The Royal Commonwealth Society.

clutter to children and shopping, and adapt the ideas, free tools and information to meet their needs and priorities.

Individuals or groups interested in Green Routine or wishing to sign up should go to: www.somersetwaste.gov.uk

Ansford Academy

A cheque for £800 was presented to Lottie Savage a year 10 student from Ansford Academy, Castle Cary on behalf of the Bath and District Branch of the Royal

C M NTH i O R S O F THE

February

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Commonwealth Society.

The money will go towards Ansford Academy’s Zambian Exchange visit 2013. Lottie will be taking part in this trip and accepted the cheque on behalf of the school.

The award was given to her by the President of the branch and ex-director of the Royal Commonwealth Society, Stuart Mole. The presentation took place at the Bath and County Cricket Club.

Godfrey Hall from Castle Cary who is chair of the Bath and District Branch and also a trustee of the society said that the award is given annually to a school in the area to go towards a project which is linked to the Commonwealth. He also added that the branch is always interested in receiving applications from schools, colleges and students in the area for similar schemes as they are able to offer a range of grants and bursaries.

Mentioned in

Dispatches The RCS has branches all over the world and works with young people throughout the Commonwealth organising global conferences, summits, linking schools and students. It also organises the annual Commonwealth Observance at Westminster Abbey and has its main headquarters in Central London .

For further information on the society go to www.rcsbath.org.

Vote for your young volunteer champion

Residents in West Dorset are being asked to nominate young volunteers for a special award.

The Chairman’s Awards: Young Volunteer Champions 2013 is an award to celebrate the work of the young people who have given up their spare time in the West Dorset area.

The awards are run by West Dorset District Council and aim to recognise the unpaid voluntary work done by young people and youth groups. nominations are open until Friday 15 February 2013 and the categories for nomination are: Junior Young Champion – an individual 12 years or under.

Young Community Champion an individual aged 13 – 18 years.

Senior Young Champion – an individual aged 19 – 25 years.

Youth Group Champion - any young people’s voluntary or community group.

For more information visit www.dorsetforyou.com/young champion

Lamyatt Community Choir

The village of Lamyatt has a small community choir and they would like to become bigger!

Choir leader, Jenny Peplow, is a professional singer and choir leader and already successfully leads 3 other local choirs. They would like to recruit more members to join the Lamyatt Community Choir which meets every Wednesday evening from 7 pm in the village hall.

Especially men - they really need to build the male section. Anyone can join and they welcome people from surrounding villages and towns. They sing for the fun of it - popular songs, songs from the musicals, gospel music and more.

Jenny teaches them how to sing

like professionals and learn beautiful harmonies but they also laugh a lot and enjoy themselves.

You don't have to audition or read music but it helps if you can hold a tune and love singing in the shower! The choir is part of all sorts of initiatives in Lamyatt to improve the hall to make it fit for purpose now and into the future. For further information contact: linda.goodhew@ btinternet.com

Britannia Carnival Club

At the final Carnival Club meeting of the year 2012 and with the formal bits out of the way; Chairman Giggy Birch gave his much anticipated speech.

Firstly, thank yous to all the club members who helped throughout the year, a brilliant gang and too many to thank individually. To his committee – David, Tina and Kara. To those that helped with fundraising – especially Jenny. To Toby and Lee who have helped build the cart and organise the music.

He acknowledged the disappointment of many, following the decision not to take the cart out in 2012, but expressed his sheer joy at the enthused youngsters fuelled by their carnival spirit, doing a ‘Walking Entry’; albeit no prizes, but no denying the amount of fun that was had by all!!

Each year – Giggy gives two awards to members whom he recognises have gone that extra mile for the club team. In collaboration with Vice Chairman, David Smith, and after much deliberation, it was decided the first award should go to David Graffham, in recognition of his contribution to both cart design and choreography. He announced

the second award was to be shared between the ‘Bubbliest’ team member for her enthusiasm as a true carnavalite – Victoria Beale, and Christine Stone, for her write-ups in the magazines, including The Visitor – apparently many readers have expressed their enjoyment at the anecdotes.

So thanks to the team at The Viz for their continued support to Britannia Carnival Club.

Finally – if you are interested in getting involved with the fun of Carnival and would like to join the Britannia Carnival Club, call Giggy Birch on 07855 497263, membership is free for students and children, for the first year.

Pennybank Writers

Pennybank Writers celebrated a very successful end to 2012 at their annual lunch at The Ship Inn at Mere. Pennybank is a small and friendly group of local writers and poets who meet once a month. Following the sell-out success of their anthology entitled A confection of Poetry and Prose, a joint project with the Whitehorse Writers, Pennybank are inspired to produce a second Anthology. Current members, from all walks of life, mostly with no previous writing experience, but with a shared enthusiasm, travel from Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire to meet at the Methodist Hall in Mere.

Other Pennybank successes in 2012 include Pauline Morphy’s wonderful children’s novel Exiles from the Moor, republished and critically acclaimed by Jilly Cooper. Mary White achieved a commendation for her flash fiction entry at the Mere Literary Festival and Mary Buchan was runner-up in the W.I. Dorset County Competition. Adrienne Howell won the prestigious Winchester Festival’s Short Story competition. Adrienne, in her busy life, is the organizer of the Mere Literary Festival held in October every year and is, of course, the popular leader of the Pennybank Writers. If you would like to join them contact Adrienne on 01747 860475 or email: howellatmere@aol.com

Lamyatt resident wins top UK award

nick Smallwood from Lamyatt, near Bruton, has just picked up a top award - for being ‘truly decent’! nominated by his daughter, nick was one of ten finalists from across the country ‘whose selfless acts of decency have had a positive impact on the lives of others’. True to form, he’s donated his £1,000 prize to village funds.

At 65, nick works enthusiastically to foster a real community sprit in Lamyatt.

Since moving to the village, he’s established Lamyatt’s own cider

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THE VISITOR February 2013 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches business, helped run a themed film night, set up a ‘give-and-take’ table where people can swap home-grown produce and, this year, he masterminded Lamyatt’s impressive Jubilee celebrations.

He’s now lending his support to an important initiative by Laymatt’s Village Hall Trust to improve its outdated community hall. ‘We’ve just won a £30,000 grant from Mendip District Council - but that’s just the start’, he explains. ‘There’s a lot of work ahead to raise the rest of the money we need!’ Just one more thing to keep nick busy!

Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival

There will be a packed programme of events taking place from 9th - 23rd of February 2013 to celebrate Shaftesbury’s Snowdrop Festival. These will include: Art Exhibition, Story Telling, Skittle Tournament, Floral Demonstration, Children’s Half-Term Activities, Adults and Family Workshops, and a Grand Lantern Parade with Fireworks.

On Sunday 17th February the Garden Fayre, Snowdrop Market & Gardeners’ Car Boot Sale will take place and it’s Shaftesbury Abbey Snowdrop Open Day. Programme details available from Swan’s Yard Office, Tourist Information Office & the Town Hall. For further details of activities and events visit www.shaftesburysnowdrops.org

Young Framers Offer Free Man Power to Community Projects

Dorset Young Farmers Clubs are looking to support a Community Project in the last two weeks of March 2013. They are offering Free Man Power for up to two days anywhere in Dorset. Any project big or small will be considered. All they ask is that materials needed are provided where possible. Past projects include Land Clearance, Fencing, Playground Maintenance and Creation Of A Wildlife Area. But they are willing to try their hand at most things!

For suggestions and more information please contact Josie Sollis at the County Office on 01305 263947 or office@ dorsetyfc.org.uk or alternatively Dorset YFC Office, Stinsford 8 THE VISITOR February 2013

Business Centre, Kingston Maurward, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8PY.

Community groups get new year boost

Over 20 local organisations are better off thanks to the proceeds of the Rotary Club of Yeovil’s annual Community Christmas Draw. With the support of local businesses the draw raised £5,350. The tickets were sold by community organisations who received all the proceeds from the tickets they sold. The tickets sold

by Rotarians provided an additional 10% income to each participating organisation.

February Notice Board BARTON ST. DAVID

Saturday 9th February, open day, 10am - 7pm, at Barton Studio Gallery, High Jarmany Rural Workshops. View new art and craft work, meet the artists.

Sunday 10th February, 10am 6pm, beginners stained Glass Workshop, at Barton Studio Gallery. Cost £85 inclusive of materials and lunch. FFI call 01458 851563 or visit www.bartonstudiogallery.com

Business Robert Stone & Co, chartered accountants and tax advisers in Ilminster answers questions from small businesses in Somerset Q1. If I purchase a Land Rover Defender for use in my partnership business can I reclaim the VAT paid on the purchase? I will use the Land Rover 75% for business and 25% for private journeys.

Robert Stone replies:

You first need to check that the specific model of Land Rover Defender is regarded as a commercial vehicle for VAT purposes by HMRC. You can do this by ringing the VAT helpline on 0800 010 9000.

If HMRC agrees the Defender is a commercial vehicle, you can reclaim 75% of the VAT paid on the purchase, on the basis that it will be used for business purposes for 75% of its useful life.

You should keep accurate mileage records of all your business journeys so you have evidence of the business use of the vehicle, in case HMRC ask you to prove the business use percentage. If the percentage of business use of

Q2. The Christmas feasting has taken its toll on the waistlines of everyone in our company. Can I give the workforce a boost by having the company pay for gym membership for me and all my staff?

Robert Stone replies:

A company may provide sports or recreational facilities for its workforce, but unless those facilities are used mainly by

Everything for your home office can be supplied by Mid-West Office Equipment of Sherborne, from desks and chairs, to machinery and paperclips.

MARTOCK

Antiques and Collectables valuation day by Lawrences of Crewkerne, Tuesday 12th February at Martock Primary School, TA12 6EF. Entry fee £5 for 2 items, £2 per extra item.

Light refreshments. Proceeds to Martock Parish Church. the sunset Café stompers 7man Jazz Band, Thursday 14th February at Martock Church, TA12 6JL at 7.30pm. Led by pianist Mike Denham with Steve Graham, trumpet. The Band’s 4th, Mike’s 8th and Steve’s 7th concert here. £8 on the door, or £7 from 01935 822706.

Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors

Advertise your MARCH event here!

26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary Ba7 7BH tel: 01963 351052

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 - send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid, maximum 20 words. Extra words 30p each. Deadline for March issue, Monday 18th February.

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www.midwest-office.co.uk

Business & Professional current and former employees with exclusion of the general public, there will be a benefit in kind tax charge for the employees and the company. A membership for a gym open to any paying member from the general public would be taxed as a benefit for employees, the taxable value being the cost to the company of providing that membership.

Q3. My business has started exporting goods. I've heard I need an EORI number. What is it, and how do I get one?

Robert Stone replies:

The Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) scheme started on 1 July 2009 and replaced the previous TURn system. The EORI provides a unique number for a business to quote to any Customs authority in the EU, for example when the business needs to make a customs declaration when goods arrive or depart from the EU. If your business had a number under TURn, it should automatically have been issued with an EORI number. If your business is VAT registered in the UK you need to complete form C220 to obtain an EORI number, if you are not VAT registered the

form to complete is C220A. These application forms can be sent by email to turn@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk If you have an urgent query, do not hesitate to contact Robert Stone on 01460 55661 or email y o u r q u e s t i o n s t o : info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

3 County Locksmiths

Whether you work from home in a ‘home office’ situation or from a business premises, 3 County Locksmiths of Gillingham can help you keep your busines secure.

They have an extensive range of safes in a variety of sizes to suit your requirements, including Euro graded fire safes. If you are unsure what safe you require to be insured by your insurance company give them a call. The safe should of course be bolted into position - 3 County Locksmiths offer an installation service.

Grills and shutters for windows and doors can be supplied and fitted. These can be either expandable or made to measure.

Door entry systems are also available ensuring only those with the correct access code can enter the premises or restricted master keys for larger businesses.

From key cutting and padlocks

to locks and keyboxes, 3 County Locksmiths of Gillingham. no obligation survey on request.

P C Wincanton

Proprietor Graham Warren has over 30 years experience in computers and divides his time between his Taunton and Wincanton premises.

Graham can offer IT support from a single home computer through to Business support for 100 plus computers. He also offers sales, installation and a maintenance service.

Graham is an Eclipse broadband reseller – as recommended by Which and has the support of UK call centres.

He is also an AVG premiere dealer.

Sales, Service, Maintenance, Repairs New and Refurbished spRiNg pRomotioN Support Contracts 5% oFF all Sales Call Outs / Home Visits

15% oFF repairs

When mentioning the Visitor offer ends 31st march 2013

321 Cartridges

With the rising cost of fuel, why not have your ink cartridges sent to you direct? Order your ink cartridges on-line, all major brands supplied such as HP, Canon, Brother and Epson, plus recycled cartridges. Delivery is free and your order is dispatched the same day - first class. Check out the website for current prices and promotions e.g. Epson, Canon and Brother compatible cartridges from only £1.80 (minimum purchase of 6).

Tim Cole Downes ACIOB Architectural & Building Consultant Building Design ~ Planning Approval ~ Building Regulations Approval Loft & Barn Conversions ~ Conveyancing Surveys ~ Measured Surveys ★ NO VAT CHARGED ★ Tel: 01749 812000 • Mob: 07932 150873 Email: timcoledownes@gmail.com

Computing made easy!

DOMESTiC & BUSiNESS COMPUTERS

As a special Visitor Reader Promotion Graham is currently offering 5% discount off of all sales and 15% discount off of any repairs during February and March 2013. Please mention The Visitor when responding.

*Ends 28th February

Save Time - Save money buy your ink cartridges direct online * February Special - 10% oFF your first order ... just enter ‘Visitor’ at checkout

info@321ink.co.uk • 321ink.co.uk facebook.com/321ink • twitter: @321ink

Contact: Graham warren 07775 755964 • 01963 824825

P C wiNCANTON

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5 The Bayliss Centre, Street • 01458 841741 website: www.streetcellular.com email: sales@streetcellular.com

■ Grills & Shutters - for windows and doors ■ Safes - all sizes, fire proof rated ■ Door Entry Systems FREE NO OBliGATiON SuRVEy 44 Brickfields Business Park GiLLiNGHAM SP8 4PX

Tel: 01747 826311

info@3countylocksmiths.co.uk • www.3countylocksmiths.co.uk

24 Hour Emergency Call Out 0800 652 7097 THE VISITOR February 2013 9

Bath Decorative Antiques Fair 7th – 10th March, 2013

THE COLOURFUL, charming, unique Bath Decorative Antiques Fair takes place for the 24th year at The Pavilion, Bath from 7th – 10th March. Every spring, the Pavilion is transformed into the chicest marketplace for the most decorative, unusual and eyecatching art and antiques on display anywhere in Britain.

With more than 45 specialist exhibitors, The Bath Decorative Antiques Fair is carefully

gold & Silver Jewellery Wanted Best prices paid for wedding rings, pendants, chains, bracelets, and broken items, etc.

Phone Jenny Martin Castle Cary

01963 350733 eNS OK t t GiF

Antiques & Collecting designed with flair and panache to emphasize stand displays combining anything from painted furniture and interior fitments to folk art, early pottery, naïve paintings, textiles, glass, metalwork and all kinds of collectables. now organised by Sue Ede, who runs an extensive range of fairs across the UK, the Bath Decorative Fair will maintain it’s special appeal and ambience as an enjoyable, relaxed and memorable occasion while now also offering a broader range of art and antiques with wider appeal for private collectors. A sympathetic re-design will also

dAiry House ANtiques

provide wider aisles and more space to stand-back and view the many eye-catching stand displays. Also new for 2013 will be an in-fair restaurant for light meals, treats and refreshments.

Along with dealers from around the country many local dealers will be there including Mackintosh Antiques from Sherborne who will be showing a range of pieces from Art Deco cabinets to early 18th century chairs and tables. Appledore Antiques and Terry and Marie Kelly, both from Devon, and Cherrie and Michael Todd from Somerset will be dealing in folk art, samplers, ceramics, curios and collectibles, and Lynda Bateson Townsend and Amy

Perry dealing in painted furniture, glass, ceramics and textiles and decorative accessories for the home and garden.

The 24th Bath Decorative Antiques Fair, The Pavilion, Bath BA2 4EU. Trade Preview: Thursday 7th March: 12noon – 7pm. Admission with Trade Invite or Trade Business Card.

Otherwise £10.00. Public: Friday & Saturday 8/9th March 11am – 6pm; Sunday 10th March 11am – 5pm, Admission: £3.00.

Fund Raiser for Martock Parish Church

There will be an Antiques and Collectables Valuation Day by Lawrences of Crewkerne on Tuesday 12th February, 11am3pm at Martock Primary School, TA12 6EF. Entry fee £5 for 2 items, £2 per extra item. Light refreshments. Proceeds to Martock Parish Church.

Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 11am – 4pm SuNday MarKet 1st Sunday each Month

The Vintage Bazaar Textile & Rag Market

Beaminster Antiques, Vintage & Collectables Fair Saturday 2nd February

Approximately 3 miles north of Shaftesbury just off the A350 signed Semley industrial Estate

Saturday 9th March

Public Hall Beaminster Dorset

Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury Dorset SP7 9AN

tel: 01747 853317 • www.dairyhouseantiques.co.uk

PASTIMES of Sherborne We pay top prices for old toys - any condition Trains • Cars • Lorries • Soldiers • Etc. Britains * Dinky * Corgi * Hornby Meccano * Tri-ang * Etc. Shop Open Mornings 9.30am - 1.00pm Monday to Saturday

tel: 01935 816072 Mob: 07527 074343 HOME VISItS BY ARRANgEMENt

3 Westbury, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3EH

Antiques BAzAAr you NeVer KNoW WhAT you’ll FiNd …

TREEN YEW-WOOD BOX WITH LID £6 INDIGO GLASS BUBBLED DISH £15 MAGNIFYING GLASSES AND CASE £20 NURSING CHAIR ON BARLEY TWIST LEGS £72 PR OF GILT AND PLASTER LAMPS AND SHADES £125 HORNBY FLYING SCOTSMAN “Silver Link” £129 PAIR OF TERRACOTTA RHUBARB FORCERS £145 9ct WHITE GOLD HALF ETERNITY RING £165 RETRO ORANGE LEATHER SOFA £395 REGENCY MAHOGANY SWIVEL TOP CARD TABLE £450 oVer 40 deAlerS iN oNe eASy ViSiT! Free oN SiTe PArKiNg * CAFÉ * oPeN 7 dAyS A WeeK

Antiques BAzAAr South, Street, Crewkerne, TA18 8Ag Tel: 01460 77121 www.antiquesbazaar.co.uk

10 THE VISITOR February 2013

9am – 3pm • £1 Entry Vintage goodies from quality dealers

NORTH CADBuRy VILLAGE HALL BA22 7DP

9.30am – 4.00pm

✱ Next Fair ✱ Saturday 9th March Bookings & Enquiries

Meadow Fairs 01297 24446

always something interesting at ...

CReWkeRne anTiQUeS CenTRe

With 50 dealers and 30 display Cabinets Jewellery, Silver, Glass, Rocking Horses, China and an extensive Range of Furniture ✿ GaRden nOW OPen ✿ Statues – Patio Sets – Benches – and More! anTiQUeS BOUGHT & SOld Open: Monday – Saturday 9.30am - 4.30pm

16 MaRkeT STReeT • CReWkeRne Tel: 01460 77111

Golden years - Caring for the Elderly COPInG WITH EVERYDAY life becomes more difficult as we age and choices regarding the future need to be made. Some of those choices are available over the next seven pages.

Hart Mobility Celebrate their 3rd Anniversary

Local family-run Hart Mobility are celebrating their third year of opening in Yeovil. With 12 years experience in the field, Hart

Mobility recognises the needs of their current and potential customers, and maintains standards of excellence to meet them.

The company covers Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire and are happy to make home visits, offering products with a full backup policy.

Featuring mobility scooters, wheelchairs, rise and recline chairs, stair lifts, walking aids and daily living equipment, their topquality range is offered at highly

competitive prices. Their friendly and caring staff offer personal service, including comprehensive demonstrations of the equipment, which can be adapted to suit the customer’s needs.

Equipment aftercare is offered, as is product insurance, extended warranties and product servicing, such as battery maintenance.

Hart Mobility would like to thank their old, new and existing customers for their loyalty and share this three-year anniversary with them.

We also offer SERVICING and replacement BATTERIES

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm Saturday 9.30am - 1.00pm

When weather permits, residents of Elliscombe House, Holton, enjoy a variety of events and activities in the spacious grounds.

Free ParKiNG Outside The Door

Private Nursing Care from £750.00 per week the Aurora Care group offers private nursing care in our Somerset nursing homes at prices from £750.00 per week

www.hendfordcarehome.co.uk 166 Hendford Hill, yeovil, BA20 2RG 01935 470400 info@auroracare.co.uk

Our homes are spread across south Somerset and variously offer: ● 24 hour nursing care in purpose built accommodation ● Large single en suite rooms with ensuite wet rooms ● Comprehensive social programmes with several activities a day, designed to stimulate physically, intellectually and socially ● Restaurant standard dining in own rooms or dining rooms ● Frequent trips out in our own minibus ● Beautiful landscaped gardens with breathtaking views over the Somerset countryside

www.hurstmanor.co.uk Hurst, Martock, TA12 6Ju 01935 823467 info@hurstmanor.co.uk

www.elliscombehouse.co.uk Higher Holton, nr. Wincanton, BA9 8EA 01963 33370 info@elliscombehouse.co.uk THE VISITOR February 2013 11

Golden years - Caring for the Elderly Cary Brook

Thursday, 17th January was a very special day for two of our lady residents at Cary Brook.

Emily Bentley celebrated her 105th birthday. The dining room was the venue for a family afternoon party, including her great grandchildren who were allowed to have time off from school for this very unique occasion.

Emily received two very special cards; from Her Majesty the Queen and The Right Honourable Iain Duncan Smith MP – Secretary of State for

Work and Pensions.

Later in the evening, after having a well-deserved rest, staff joined Emily in their celebration - singing Happy Birthday and presenting to her a beautifully decorated chocolate cake, made by Care Support Maddie Stringer’s mother. Emily was thrilled with her day, thanked all concerned and hoped that it was not too much trouble for the staff.

Lillian Curtis celebrated her 91st birthday with a cake and a tea party enjoyed by residents and staff.

Emily Bentley, resident of Cary Brook, Castle Cary, recently celebrated her 105th birthday with a party for family and a cake from the staff.

Prestige Nursing

Originally founded in 1945, Prestige nursing + Care has over 40 branches nationwide that are a mixture of company-owned and franchised businesses. Prestige in Yeovil covers the Somerset and Dorset areas. We offer our clients high quality and affordable care services, involving anything from a simple one hour visit right up to round the clock nursing care, and for your complete peace of mind they are all backed up by our unique service guarantee.

Quality care in a comfortable environment Cary Brook is a 45 bed care home situated in the peaceful town of Castle Cary. the home has recently been extended and has been adapted to ensure the safety and security of residents who are experiencing problems with mental frailty and illness associated with dementia. there must be something in the water, as it’s BABY BOOM time here at Cary Brook 2013 again! therefore we are looking to recruit Night Staff both in a Supervisor and Care Assistant role. If you are interested pop in for a chat or phone.

Cary Brook holds the gold Standard Framework for end of life care and gives the award-winning ‘PEtALS’ dementia care service.

If you would like to visit us, or for more information, please call the Manager, Judith Pullen, on (01963) 359700.

CARy BROOK, Millbrook Gardens, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7EE • www.somersetcare.co.uk 12 THE VISITOR February 2013

As office staff, we pride ourselves on our professionalism, knowledge, friendliness and approachability, ensuring that clients are aware that we are always available for any queries or questions they may have. For more information on any of the Prestige services, call the Yeovil branch on 01935 433 193.

Lunch Club and Befriending for older people.

If you are an older person living in the Glastonbury area, are you interested in attending a Lunch Club on a regular or occasional basis? Or would you enjoy a regular visit from a Befriender?

If your answer to either of these questions is yes or you wish to find out more, then read on.

The Lunch Club is held every Monday at Monmouth Close in Glastonbury and runs from 10.00 – 15.00 with a hot lunch served at 12.15. Members enjoy games, craft, sing a longs and the company of others. They also enjoy regular visits from entertainers and speakers. The weekly cost is only £6.

Befriending benefits both the person being befriended and the volunteer who acts as the befriender.

Glastonbury Live at Home, set up by Methodist Homes in 2012, runs both these services with the assistance of six dedicated volunteers and managed by Peter Baker, the community Services Manager, based at Willcox Close in Glastonbury.

If you would like further information about these services or are interested in becoming a volunteer then contact Peter Baker 01458 – 831123 or e-mail scheme.glastonbury@mha.org.uk

Golden years - Caring for the Elderly as they do in their existing shops together with friendly and helpful advice. Do call in.

They are also pleased to announce that they have moved to a bigger shop in Wells. The new address is Unit 5/6 Palace Theatre Courtyard, Priory Road Wells BA5 1SY (previously Microbitz). They look forward to seeing all their old customers and to welcoming new ones to their extensive range of products.

The ‘Serena’ standard waterfall back riser-recliner is available in four colourways. Local stockist Mendip Mobility of Street, Wells and Frome.

Fit & Furnish

Mendip Mobility Expand

Mendip Mobility already wellestablished in Street and in Wells is pleased to announce the opening of their third branch at

20 Westway Shopping Centre in Frome.

They will offer the same comprehensive range of mobility equipment and daily living aids

MOBiLiTY AiDS

“Mmm ... great gear to be getting on with”

Get ready for Spring!

HavE yOuR scOOTER sERvicEd / REpaiREd Servicing on the premises ... or our mobile workshop can come to you Always a good range of Scooters in stock for sale Full range of Small Aids available HiRE SERviCE Footwear now stocked New branch now open at: 20 westway, FROME, BA11 1BS 146 High Street, STREET, BA16 0ER Tel: 01458 448355 Also at: Unit 5 / 6 Palace Theatre Courtyard Priory Road, wELLS, BA5 1SY. Tel: 01749 675599 www.mendipmobility.co.uk

Fit & Furnish of Middle Street in Yeovil can furnish any room in the house!

They deal with a wide range of companies so can offer a diverse range of furniture to suit all tastes and pockets – with thousands of items and finishes to choose from on their website.

February sees the launch of dedicated web pages for Care and Residential Homes on their website - Beds, Mattresses, Bedroom furniture etc., and discount is offered on bulk purchases.

Alternatively you can call in and discuss your requirements or select from their new colour brochure.

Fit & Furnish are also agents for Acorn stairlifts.

Sunday Tea

One Sunday afternoon a month, throughout the country, Contact the Elderly groups meet for tea and companionship. Each older guest is assigned a volunteer driver and together they become part of a small group invited to a volunteer hosts’ home for tea with the other members of the group.

They visit a different host each month, but the group remains the same and relationships grow. A warm welcome, a family home, meeting old friends and new, provides older guests with companionship and a vital link with the community on a Sunday afternoon. The national charity has been running since 1965, and the simple yet effective model is still the basis of that we do!

We’ve got several groups in Somerset, including around Somerton / Langport and Frome

Prompt supply of quality furniture to rest homes & nursing homes ■ Full colour brochure ■ Dedicated web pages (Mid-February) ■ Single or multiple purchases ■ Discount for bulk purchases We would be happy to arrange an appointment to discuss your requirements

01935 412811 FiT & FURNiSH Lower Middle Street, Yeovil visit our new easy to use website ...

www.fitandfur nish.co.uk 1000s of furniture products to suit all pockets THE VISITOR February 2013 13

Golden years - Caring for the Elderly both of which have spaces for older guests. We are also looking for interested people (volunteers or older guests) to help support new groups in the Wells / Shepton / Glastonbury area and around Yeovil.

Driver - Be a regular or reserve driver, picking up one or two older guests once a month and going together to the Sunday afternoon tea party.

Host - All you need is a big teapot, a downstairs loo (or one on the same level if you live in a flat

with a lift) and easy access. Hosts offer to hold a tea party in your home, twice a year on a Sunday afternoon. It really isn’t much time or commitment to make a huge difference.

Coordinator - organise the local group.

If you or someone you know would like to become part of the group as a guest please contact Helen Ker, Local Development Officer, helen.ker@contact-theelderly.org.uk 0117 960 9606 www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk

Guests are 75+ and not expected to host or drive.

Abbeyfield Blackmore Vale Society - Supported Living at its Best

An ethos of independent, supported living within an extended family means Abbeyfield House in Bleke Street, Shaftesbury, is so much more than home to its 15 residents.

It’s a place of laughter, warmth, friendship and support.

As we get older, we don’t necessarily require full residential

care but we might need help with some of the household chores and appreciate a bit of company from time to time. That’s exactly the level of support that Abbeyfield House is equipped to provide and has been doing so for 35 years.

The original part of the house, which is Grade II listed, has been extended twice over the years and the whole house is full of character.

All rooms are en-suite, well equipped and neutrally decorated for residents to furnish as they wish.

Residents prepare their own breakfast but two live-in housekeepers serve up homecooked lunches and evening meals in the communal dining room.

Visitors are welcome at any time.

For more information or to arrange a visit to Abbeyfield House, contact Sue Luscombe on 01747 854922.

Candlelight - The Choice is Yours

If you are paying for help at home yourself, for either practical support or personal care, you

14 THE VISITOR February 2013

Golden years - Caring for the Elderly want to be sure you are getting the very best service and value for money. But how do you know which company will provide this?

Homecare companies offer similar services. How can you choose between them? Candlelight is an excellent choice offering the very best service and value for money and we know this because our clients tell us so. We provide high quality, professional services in your own home to make your life easier and our charges are simple too. Unlike many care companies we don’t charge extra for evenings or weekends or mileage.

‘Your company cannot be praised enough for their kindness, efficiency and thoroughly good service. In this climate where so often services do not come up to expectation, this exceeded expectation!’ Mrs D, Wells Call 01458 831201 or go to www.candlelightcare.co.uk

Fresh home cooked food at St. Denis Lodge

As well as comfortable and safe surroundings, the provision of good tasty food is a very important consideration when choosing a home. At St. Denis Lodge, Shaftesbury their qualified chef produces breakfast, lunch and supper in the kitchen using the freshest possible seasonal ingredients and making the most of local flavours where possible using locally reared meats and fresh fish. A variety of meals are cooked with nutrition always in mind and residents have menu choices at every meal and flexibility of dining. Special dietary requirements are met at all times.

Friends can be invited for meals and visitors often come for afternoon tea when freshly baked cakes are served.

Meals can be taken in the

Safety and reliability are the highest priority of this stair-lift by Handicare, to hire or buy at A2B Mobility of Martock.

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Need a short break away from the pressure and the worry of being a carer?

St. Denis Lodge currently has vacancies for short stay in our special respite facility. to arrange a visit to see how we can help you enjoy the break you deserve, please telephone Mrs Hayley Carpenter: 01747 854596

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm, Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm • Closed Bank Holidays other times by appointment • tel: 07917 145838 / 07917 145839 LARGE FREE CAR PARK RIGHT OUTSIDE

Units 1 & 2, Great western Road, Martock

0800 731 7078

THE VISITOR February 2013 15

Golden years - Caring for the Elderly Help at the touch of a button, 24 hours a day, from Careline peace of mind for family and friends.

comfortable dining room or in the residents’ private room.

Complimentary sherry is served before supper and wine accompanies the Sunday roast.

Independent Bathing Systems

Keep your independence at home with

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

Do you …

■ Live alone or sometimes feel at risk?

■ Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents?

■ Worry about their safety in an emergency?

■ Want to help them maintain their independence?

If yes, Careline can provide help at the touch of a button 24-hours a day 365 days a year! Through Careline, you can actually enjoy the independence of living in your own home, secure in the knowledge that emergency help or advice is available at your fingertips.

As we get older our bodies just don’t work as well as they used to and although most elderly people want to maintain their independence by looking after themselves in their own homes, this become increasingly difficult for them. In particular climbing in and out of the bath becomes difficult and hazardous for some people and yet being able to relax in a warm bath is a pleasure most people don’t want to forgo.

A battery operated bath lift is the answer and ‘independent bathing systems’ is a local family business which has been

specializing in bath lifts now for the last 10 years.

They offer installation, servicing and repairs to all types of bath lift and can also offer advice on the range of equipment available.

Beechwood House

Set in landscaped gardens, Beechwood House Care Home in Yeovil, provides a very high standard of residential care for 28 elderly people, all having ground level, en-suite rooms.

Established for more than 16 years, their aim is to provide a caring and comfortable home for people who feel unable or do not wish to live on their own any longer.

Two sitting rooms and two conservatories allow residents to enjoy either a quiet period of reflection, to meet visitors or to participate in the activities on offer. The cooks prepare excellent home-cooked cuisine and special dietary requirements are catered for. Should you require them to order, collect and administer medication, they will gladly do so.

They want residents to maintain their way of life, whilst knowing that help is available whenever they need it. Above all, treat Beechwood House as your home. Please call Sandra Barclay, Manager, on 01935 472793 for more details.

Care Home for the Elderly 60 West Coker Road, Yeovil BA20 2JA Call SANDRA BARCLAY, Manager on 01935 472793 for an informal chat email: info@beechwoodcarehome.co.uk • www.beechwoodcarehome.co.uk

Bathing difficulties?

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

Call 01935 479815 Initial connection / setup fee £31.95* Hire and monitoring £3.65 per week * Waived if on certain benefits 16 THE VISITOR February 2013

Maintain independence in your own home For free information on the full range of bathing aids & walk-in showers

iNdepeNdeNt BAtHiNG systems Chard 01460 221058 • mobile 07796 383330

Castle House Nursing Home Keinton Mandeville Gold StandardS accreditation A resident receives one-to-one attention from Activities Co-ordinator Annette Lock, in the Reminiscent Room.

LAST YEAR, after months of hardwork Jo Marshall and her staff at Castle House nursing Home, Keinton Mandeville attained the prestigious Gold Standards Framework Award national accreditation.

This ensures that residents wishes are paramount, clearly understood and acted upon in their latter days - e.g not in hospital or with a priest in attendance.

At Castle House the ethos is very much home-from-home and the residents freedom of choice and individual requirements are to the fore - throughout their stay.

This is reflected in many ways in the home, including the monthly residents meeting where they can air their views and make their requests on light-hearted matters such as what they would like for Christmas Day Lunch - when incidently, a glass of bubbly for everyone was requested!(and received) - through to more serious matters on any concerns or queries

The bright and airy Sun Lounge overlooks the attractive garden.

they may have. Big or small choices are important to everyone to keep their identity.

Since taking over Castle House, Jo Marshall has been busy implementing a refurbishment programme. The newly repainted purpose-built nursing Home is light and airy and all on one level, so residents have easy access throughout the home and gardens. Fresh flowers throughout, the pet cat and gold fish all add a homely touch.

There is always a daily programme of activities for those that wish to take part including quizzes, sing songs around the piano, flexacise etc., and activities co-ordinator Annette is bursting with new ideas. Proving popular are visits from a group called the Reminiscent Angels - who choose a different topic to reminisce about on each visit, such as Somerset this would include tastings such as a Somerset cream tea, costumes from days gone by, old photographs and a film show.

A programme of events has already been planned for 2013.

Castle House supports St. Margaret’s Hospice and they hold events regularly to raise money. These, like many events at the home, are supported by the local community in which the home tries to take an active part, in turn supporting village events.

Castle House offers 28 single rooms and 2 doubles - all have ensuite facilities and television. Residents are actively encouraged to bring in their own effects to personalize their room and their name is on the door with any photos they may care to add. Pets can be accepted at the home on request.

Volunteers are encouraged to call in for an hour or so each week and to chat to the residents. This acts as fresh stimulation and also assists the social companions employed by the home who talk to residents who perhaps prefer not to join in the group activities but like to chat or do puzzles on a one-to-one basis.

There are plenty of places for residents to enjoy each others company including the Sun Lounge which overlooks the garden, the Reminiscent Area with its books and albums and the Lounge / Dining Area.

The home is set in six acres of beautiful landscaped grounds and the residents are actively encouraged to take an interest, including their suggestions for flowers and colours they would like to see planted.

The kitchen garden supplies the kitchen with fresh produce and herbs. All the food is locally sourced and freshly prepared. Residents look forward to meal times as there is always a good choice of menu. Special diets can be catered for and for those who like a drink with their meal - the tipple of their choice can be provided.

Looking good is important whatever your age so hairdressing, chiropody etc. are readily available, as are full medical and dental requirements. Clergy from all denominations visit regularly.

Being a nursing home ensures that should the health of a resident deteriorate there is no need for the upheaval of moving.

This family run home offers a high standard of individual care in a homely environment. If you would like to know more or would like to visit, please call 01458 223780 or call in person.

Respite and day care facilities are also available.

A Visitor Profile.

The spacious landscaped garden.

CASTLE HOUSE NURSING HOME Ltd. Castle Street, Keinton Mandeville Somerton, Somerset TA11 6DX CQC Tel: 01458 223780 • Email: enquiries@castlehousenh.co.uk www.castlehousenursinghome.com

Member of RCPA

THE VISITOR February 2013 17

Education MattErs Sunny Hill Nursery & Reception Classes at Bruton School for Girls

Bruton School for Girls is delighted with the ‘Outstanding’

grade awarded to their Nursery and Reception Classes by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in 2012. Inspectors found the early Years Department to be

outstanding in all areas: Overall effectiveness, Leadership and management, Quality of provision and Outcomes for children.

Inspectors recognised that ‘the

children’s personal, social and emotional development is outstanding’. praise was high for the ‘warm relationships’ between children and staff and for the support the school gives to the whole family. If you would like to find out how your child can benefit from their outstanding school, join them at their Open Days on Friday 8th March or Bank Holiday Monday, 6th May 2013 or arrange an individual visit by contacting, Mrs katherine O’Brien, Registrar, on 01749 814400. www.brutonschool.co.uk

Italian Language Services

Spacious grounds for outdoor play at Sunny Hill Nursery.

BOOK REVIEW More Memories of Castle Cary and Ansford

Compiled and published by Castle Cary and Ansford Living History Group, 2012.

321pp hardback.

ISBN 978-1-902247-05-2. £25.00 WHAT A SpLeNDID BOOk this is! When the first volume of ‘Memories’ came out in 1998 it proved to be very popular and has long been out-of-print. ‘More Memories’ deserves to be in even greater demand for it is a handsomely-presented collection of nearly 40 reminiscences, liberally illustrated with photographs and a fascinating variety of printed ephemera including maps, property 18 THe VISITOR February 2013

sale details and business billheads.

The contents range from extracts from the 18th century diary of John Cannon through to recollections of life in the 1950s and 60s. They vary in length from a couple of pages to 20 or more and embrace topics as diverse as shopping, farming, the horsehair industry, houses, schooling, sports, World War II and much more. A common thread that runs through most of the contributions is local people, often from families that have lived in the area for generations, names that will be familiar to many readers.

All this is sandwiched between a thoughtful introduction on the growth of the town over three centuries and a game attempt at tracing the derivation of the street names of both Castle Cary and Ansford.

The compilers have not tried to analyse the contributions and draw conclusions; wisely they have

presented the memories, warts and all, as raw material for readers to enjoy and put to whatever purposes suits them. Inevitably there are a few warts – time can play tricks with our memories – but most of the contributions are so full of detail that they will delight local historians because they are probably the sole written record.

Outstanding examples, to my mind, are Valerie Nicholls’s description of the interior and working practices at Tom Trowbridge’s drapery and outfitting shop on Fore Street in the 1950s, the building that now houses Bailey Hill Bookshop, and Richard Burrows’s childhood recollections of staying there with his Uncle Tom and Auntie Doris in the school holidays. His description of them and their living quarters is a delight.

I found it a great book for dipping into, but the temptation was always to read just one more piece before

Italian Language Services, has been providing high quality language tuition for a number of years. Christine Jewels founded the business on the principle of providing tuition tailored to the needs of her students. She organises small classes that can take students from zero knowledge to A level standard.

Some students take examinations, but the majority just want to enjoy improving their knowledge of Italian.

For Holidays she also teaches a course, Holiday Italian, which provides the basic language skills to travel, eat and shop in Italy.

There are also one day Workshops which provide an enjoyable taster or the opportunity for some revision.

Christine also provides one to one teaching at all levels to address particular language needs.

putting it down, with the result that I finished it within three days.

But I know I’ll go back to it on countless occasions to refresh my own memory on how something was in Cary in bygone days. To anyone interested in history, other people’s memories of the past can be precious, and this book is bursting with them.

Roger Richards.

Cycle-Babble TWO STORIeS have dominated the world of cycling since the turn of the year: the confirmation of the route that the Grand Départ of the 2014 Tour de France will take through the countryside of Yorkshire as the peloton makes its way to London over the course of three stages, and Lance Armstrong's interview with Oprah Winfrey, in which he finally admitted to the use of performance enhancing drugs throughout his career.

But there was another story that received rather less coverage: the retirement of one of Britain's greatest ever cyclists. A rider who stood up against bias and discrimination in the sport and who blazed a trail to the continent to fulfil their dreams. A multiple world champion; a winner of classics ; a Tour de France and Giro d'Italia champion; a Commonwealth champion; an Olympic champion. A rider who, at only 29 years old, still had much to give but who feels their time in the sport has passed. A rider called Nicole Cooke.

Cooke did hit the headlines when she announced her retirement, she even made it on to the BBC's Breakfast sofa, but the stories were either of her retirement statement, in which she vehemently attacked the doping culture in the sport, or her thoughts on the still unfolding Armstrong soap opera. precious few took the time to look at and applaud Cooke's achievements over an extraordinary 11-yearlong career. A career that she carved for herself despite facing the not inconsiderable problem of being a talented junior rider with no national races in which to ride.

Cooke was born in 1983 in Swansea. Hers was a cycling family and she quickly developed a love of the bike. She was soon racing and winning locally. In her retirement statement Cooke recounted riding in a cyclo-cross event in Wales at the age of 12 and winning against all the boys, a feat that prompted a local BBC reporter to seek her out and ask her what she would like to achieve in cycling. ‘I want to win the Tour de France and win the Olympic Road Race,’ was her answer.

But Cooke faced a problem her peers on the continent did not. The absence of any national races for girls of her age meant that there was no competition for someone of her talent and potential in which to grow and develop. Despite her

obvious ability there was no support on offer, no programme for her to join, That ability became even more obvious when she was 14. Cooke had applied to ride at the British grass track championships but had been forbidden to race in any of the official championship races because of her age. She was however permitted to ride in the omnium, a six-discipline event that was not granted championship status. The first event in the omnium was a 800m sprint race and Cooke took to the line alongside the rider who had earlier won the 800m championship race, a senior rider called Helen McGregor. Cooke won the race with the cheers of the astonished crowd ringing in her ears.

With her exploits forcing the British Cycling Federation (as it was known then) to establish a championship series for girls, Cooke went on to dominate the junior scene in Britain, recording a string of national titles until, in 1999, aged just 16 years, she became the youngest women's national road race champion. It was a title she would go on to win another eight times.

The next year she secured her first world title in the junior road race and in 2001 became the only rider to win junior world titles in the road race, time-trial and mountain bike. Then, aged 18, she followed in the pedal strokes of riders such as Tom Simpson, packed her bags and headed to the continent, fully focused on pursuing a successful professional cycling career in europe.

And what success came to Cooke. Throughout her 11 year career in europe she won every race worth winning. She won several one-day classics (Amstel Gold, Tour of Flanders, FlecheWallonne). She won the Tour of Italy or Giro D'Italia Feminile, the world cup, the world championships, the Olympic games road race. She topped the UCI rankings tables and she won the Grande Boucle Féminine (Tour de France) twice.

In short, throughout the 2000s we had a world class cyclist ripping up the roads of europe long before the likes of Mark Cavendish, Bradley Wiggins and Team Sky came on the scene. Her story deserves to be celebrated.

For more on Nicole Cooke's career go to www.nicolecooke.com.

Giles Belbin.

Leisure Gartell Light Railway Annual Model Railway Exhibition– Admission Prices held for 2013!

The Gartell Light Railway hold their eighth Annual Model Railway exhibition on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th February.

The exhibition offers plenty to interest anyone who likes trains and railways, or even to those who would like a family day out with a difference. The venue for this years event will again be the pines function suite, which doubles as the Gartell Light Railway’s Common Lane terminus.

As well as the layouts, expert model-makers will be demonstrating their craft and giving guidance for those thinking about taking up the hobby or wanting to improve their skills.

Trade stands will be present with bargains for the hobbyist.

Admission prices to the exhibition are £4 adults and £3 concessions. (5 years and under free). For those attending the exhibition, there will be drinks and light snacks available at reasonable prices throughout the day at the pines buffet counter.

During the day The Gartell Light Railway also intend running a steam train service, for

which a small extra charge will apply. Timing will depend on demand. Note: the trains will not be running onto the new line extension over this weekend.

The exhibition opens at 10am on both days, closing at 5pm on Saturday and 4pm on Sunday.

The GLR, which has a large FRee car park, is situated off the A357 at Yenston, just south of Templecombe, and will be clearly signposted. For further information (exhibition only) please telephone 01963 32444.

Check out the GLR at www.glronline.co.uk and why not join our Facebook group as well? (All facilities subject to availability).

Concert in Martock Church

The Guardians of Martock Church are organising a concert by The Sunset Café Stompers 7-man Jazz Band on Thursday 14th February at Martock Church, TA12 6JL, at 7.30pm. Led by pianist Mike Denham with Steve Graham on trumpet, this is the Band’s 4th, Mike’s 8th and Steve’s 7th concert at the Church. £8 on the door or £7 from 01935 822706.

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Festival of Cards 2013 Bath & West Showground Shepton Mallet

Friday 22nd February 10am - 6pm Admission £4 Saturday 23rd February 9.30am - 4pm Admission £2

} Children Free

Postcards  Cigarette and Trade Cards Phone Cards  Stamps  Postal History Autographs  Ephemera & Accessories 140 + Dealers Professional Catering • Large Car Parks

Details 01278 445497 www.festivalofcards.co.uk

THe VISITOR February 2013 19

Valentine’s Gifts ♥

♥ Love Yer Feet / Shabby Chic of Street

Don’t put your foot in it this Valentine’s Day – let your other half!

A relaxing fish pedicure is a Valentine’s gift with a difference! Vouchers for a 10 or 15 minute session can be purchased.

Traditional manicures and pedicures are also available using the popular OpI range.

Shabby Chic gifts include affordable jewellery, photo frames, heart embossed cushions, mugs and much more.

A gift wrap service is available to make your gift look extra special. Call in and see for yourself – find them at Farm Road, just up from Clarks Village.

Needful Things

Ladies love to receive flowers and this bouquet would certainly put you in your loved-one’s good books.

Available from Andrea’s Florist of Yeovil. ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Beautiful Bouquets - Single Roses - Arrangements ♥ Why not add a Box of Chocolates, Balloon or Teddy? ♥ order early for Guaranteed delivery day ♥ ♥

Andrea’s of Yeovil

... be my

Valentine

There is always a wonderful choice of gift ideas at Needful Things, Castle Cary. Here is just a taster. For the ladies stunning jewellery, colourful scarves, fragrant soaps and hand creams. For the gentlemen - silk ties, cufflinks, magnifying glasses and bone china mugs.

For the home ornate mirrors, paintings, ceramics and room fragrances. Call in and see the complete range for yourself and delight your Valentine on 14th February.

Orchard Park Garden Centre

Love is all around at Orchard park; the sweet smell of roses and spring flowers fill the air as the Florists work their magic, creating gorgeous hand-tied Valentine’s bouquets of every description with flowers sourced direct from Uk and Dutch growers. Single sleeved red roses start from as little as £5 and the Florists are offering a special Valentine’s package; a mixed bouquet, box of chocolates and a balloon for £35.00! Deliveries will be made up until 5pm on 14th February and you can call the Florists direct on 01747 835544.

This Valentine’s Day you can also win a beautiful bouquet by entering a competition at www.orchardpark.biz The Orchard Café will be serving a, traditional ‘high tea’ complete with a single red rose, or why not make up a ‘Valentine’s picnic hamper’ with tasty treats from Lagan Farm Shop and there are beautiful gifts for the one you love throughout the store.

x

FREEPHONE: 08000 92 93 50 78 Middle Street, Yeovil, BA20 1LT For a little bit of romance or even a passionate pressy ... feel free to browse to your ‘hearts’ content

7 High Street, Castle Cary Tel: 01963 351352 www.needfulgifts.co.uk

Love Yer Feet!

... a Valentine’s Gift with a difference Fish Pedicure

They say ‘Roses make the heart grow fonder’ and this hand-tied bouquet is sure to please.

Available from Mayflowers of Gillingham.

Mayflowers Your local Interflora Florist

14 Farm Road, Street, BA16 0BJ

For a super choice of fresh cut flowers and roses for your valentine visit us at 2A HIGH STREET, GILLINGHAM or why not order by phone or website?

Tel: 01747 824424

(Just up from Clarks Village)

www.mayflowersofgillingham.co.uk

 07766 735087

LocaL & NatioNaL deLiveries avaiLabLe

15 Minutes – £10 10 Minutes – £7.50 Taster Session 5 Minutes – £5 ✴ Vouchers AVAilAble ✴

20 THe VISITOR February 2013

Valentine’s

Weddings Planning a Wedding?

Over the next eight and a half pages you’ll find businesses to help and advise you ... from invitations and venues ... to dresses and flowers.

Ward & Sibley

Popping the question, or looking for a special Valentine’s gift?

Then a visit to Ward & Sibley Jewellers in Yeovil is a must.

Here you will find jewellery and gifts for all occasions.

The Jewellers of Yeovil Where Quality & Service Count

Ward & SiBley Valentine gifts to treasure ...

The CaskeT, 103 MiDDle sTreeT, YeOVil Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

Ward & Sibley Jewellers of Yeovil is a well-established family run business offering a comprehensive range of engagement and wedding rings.

A bespoke service is also available to create a ring of your choice should you so desire.

If you are looking for gifts for the wedding attendants you will find some very attractive pendants and ear rings for the bridesmaids and stylish cufflinks, tankards and tie pins for the best man and ushers.

An engraving service is available to make the gifts extra special. For those looking for a gift for the happy couple there is a choice of crystal glassware and a wide selection of clocks, both traditional and modern.

This easy-to-make McCall’s pattern is ideal for a bridesmaid or as a prom dress. Local stockist Hanson’s Fabrics of Sturminster Newton, where you will also find a superb range of dress fabrics.

The Jewellers of Yeovil Where Quality & Service Count

Ward & SiBley Extensive range of Wedding Rings Special Orders undertaken Wide range of Bridesmaid, Page Boy & Best Man Gifts The CaskeT, 103 MiDDle sTreeT YeOVil Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

THe VISITOR February 2013 21

Spring Weddings 5 Star Celebrations

2012 was the best year yet for 5 Star Celebrations and reservations already on the books are looking to make 2013 even better.

They have launched more products and services for the coming year, offering brides new and exciting ideas to make their day extra special. They have vastly extended their range of chair covers and are now able to supply not only a local full fitted service, but also nationally on a DIY arrangement at an exceptionally good price. Along with the chair covers, their stock of sashes and table runners now exceed over 250 colours and

shades, in Organza, Taffeta and Satin, along with an ever increasing selection of special finishes. These include vintage

Roses are always a popular choice for a wedding bouquet. This design is by Reed & Russell of Wincanton.

lace, tartan, velour flock, sequin sparkle and embroidered organza.

Sashes can be embellished further with diamante brooches or individual flowers.

Trends being set for this year include bright bold block colours or glitzy Hollywood, with the vintage country look still very popular. With their experience in venue decoration, 5 Star Celebrations can dress your venue in unusual styles using the vast stock of table centres, balloons, candelabras, table skirts, and linen.

New items this year include table linen in White & Black plus linen napkins in an extensive choice of colours, Stunning light curtain ‘top table‘ back drop with matching twinkle table skirt for the top table and cake table. All this and of course their original chocolate Fountains, Unique Royal Mail fully lockable Wedding post Boxes, and creative Ice Sculptures. A local family-run business, 5 Star Celebrations are a firm favourite of many wedding venues and hotels in the area, so with their experience and attention to detail let them help you turn a plain room in to the

function venue for all occaSionS at the Gartell Light Railway Yenston, Templecombe

 Function room catering for up to 200 Guests  Ample Parking and two outside reception Areas  Picturesque views across the blackmore Vale  Full Alcohol and entertainment licence  Family run business priding ourselves on our flexible approach to any requirement  Available for Wedding receptions / Parties corporate seminars / Auctions Contact us on 01963 370752 for more details or visit www.thepinessuite.co.uk

Turn your dream wedding into reality ✯ Chair Covers and Sashes ✯ Royal Mail Wedding Boxes ✯ Ice Sculptures ✯ Chocolate Fountains ✯ Sparkling Champagne / Cocktail Fountains ... and much more!

vision of your dreams. Diamante napkin rings, new table centres plus one or two more exciting things that you will just have to visit them to see at their showroom on the Wincanton Business park.

Talitha’s Cake Creations

Talitha’s Cake Creations is situated within A Family Thing at the top of Wincanton High Street.

A Family Thing opened prior to Christmas and is run by Talitha and her mother. Talitha can create cakes for any occasion from wedding cakes and novelty birthday cakes to traditional bakes. All cakes are additive free. everyday cakes such as flapjacks and shortbread are sold in the shop and you are welcome to stay and have a coffee. Talitha will be pleased to talk through your personal requirements.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner there are ginerbread hearts and other sweet treats on sale.

Talitha works alongside her mother, Dale Crowe, who is a seamstress and undertakes alterations and dressmaking.

There is free parking outside of the door.

Talitha’s Cake Creations We can create cakes for any occasion ...

Weddings ✳ Anniversaries ✳ Birthdays

Call us now on 01963 31473 or 07932 165159 or come and visit us at our showroom

Baked on the premises using quality local ingredients Additive free • Food allergies catered for

unit 1, lawrence Hill Business Centre wincanton, somerset Ba9 9RT

Call in and discuss your personal requirements 59 High Street (‘A Family Thing’) Wincanton • 07979 023649 or visit our website: talithas-cakes.co.uk

info@5starCelebrations.co.uk www.5starCelebrations.co.uk Formerly trading as The Chocolate Fountain Ladies

22 THe VISITOR February 2013

Spring Weddings Lawrence House Styling

Lawrence House Styling are delighted to welcome Lisa to their professional team of stylists. As a February promotion, any booking for a cut and blow dry with Lisa during the month will receive a £5 discount.

Lawrence House Styling can offer you a complete package for your Wedding Day or special occasion to include: - hair styling, hair extensions, OpI manicures and pedicures, shellac and spray tans.

Be pampered – book your appointment today.

Appointments to suit.

brides have already discovered, do not have to travel to large towns to find a wide choice of gowns, Orange Blossom have styles ranging from simple and elegant, exquisite vintage lace, to full skirted fairy-tale, all to be tried on in a relaxed and friendly boutique. Their private changing room, complete with stage, is perfect for the bride and her party. They also offer Men’s

Find your perfect wedding gown at Orange Blossom Bridal Boutique in Street, from simple and elegant to fullskirted fairytale.

Expert advice on hand to ensure you find the dress of your dreams.

Orange Blossom

Your wedding dress will be the most important dress you will ever buy, so you need to ensure that you receive expert guidance and exceptional personal service at this most special of times.

With over 18 years experience in helping brides to find their perfect wedding gown and exceptional attention to detail, a visit to Orange Blossom Bridal Boutique in Street is a must!

They have a stunning collection of bridal gowns to suit all budgets (£450-£1500) including their own private Collection. You, as many

Formal Hire, with special d i s c o u n t p a c k a g e s available. please call Christina on 01458 840006 or for more information or visit the website at www.orange b l o s s o m bridal.co.uk

This stunning table arrangement is from Heather’s Flowers of Castle Cary. Heather will be pleased to advise on all your wedding flower requirements.

Flowers with flair at ...

Heather’s Flowers Fully Qualified - and with over 18 years experience Quality Wedding Flowers - Bouquets, Button Holes, Venue / Reception Something to suit all pockets - call and discuss your personal requirements

Francis House, Fore Street, Castle Cary BA7 7BQ  01963 350525  heathers.flowers@live.com

Bridalwear Menswear Prom & Eveningwear Accessories

“Flowers and plants for all occasions”

——— Hair inspired team ———

EXCLUSIVE WEDDINg PACkAgES FEBRUARY PROMOTIONS

Shellac Nails & A Spray Tan ... only £ 30 £ 5 OFF Cut and Blow Dry ... with new stylist Lisa Call in for further details of package and wedding hair styling

Southgate Road, Wincanton, BA9 9EB Tel: 01963 32026

Tailored to suit you and your party

Mon - Sat 10.00 - 4.30 Closed Wed & Sun Appointments preferred Evening appointments available

01458 840006 www.orangeblossombridal.co.uk THe VISITOR February 2013 23

Spring Weddings Shirley Allum Fashions

Whether you're looking as mother of the bride, mother of the groom or as an invited guest, we all

A hat is an essential part of the wedding outfit for the mother-ofthe-bride and the groom’s mother.

A wide choice can be found at All About Hats.

All About Hats Stoke Sub Hamdon, Somerset

Beautiful Hats for Hire

want to look our best at a wedding. Shirley Allum Fashions and Lingerie has brought together all of this season's best wedding outfits, dresses, jackets, shoes and accessories that are just perfect for the big day in sizes ranging from 10 to 30. New season stock is arriving daily.

Also stocked are all those important 'little extras' to complement your outfit, from bags to shoes, elegant jewellery, stunning hats and fascinators as well as a handmade range of silk hats with over 150 colours to match your outfit.

Shirley believes in trying on different styles and colours, be open minded about what suits you.

The Vintage Wedding Car Company

Tel: 07817 182779

several Vintage cars available including saloons and open Tourers ring Nick baker for details on

Email: rosemary@aahats.co.uk Web: www.aahats.co.uk

nick@pobaker.co.uk

... and accessories

Choosing an outfit for your daughter’s wedding is possibly one of the most enjoyable days of your life.

One of the secrets to looking great is what you’re wearing underneath, and at the rear of the store is an extensive lingerie department which includes over 2,500 bras. The Shapewear Collection slims and shapes with comfortable support, from everyday smoothing to Ultra-firm support.

Free bra fitting is available by the qualified staff. View the extensive lingerie collection online at www.zebralingerie.co.uk Shirley and her team look forward to seeing you. If you do not have a special occasion this year, don’t worry, they can help with everyday dressing and holiday

wear. For more details call 01747 852444.

B’Dazzled

B'Dazzled Hair Salon has been established in Sherborne for 5 years. The team consists of Sam, Jen and Leona who are all very experienced.

In November they progressed their training with wedding hair with inspirational hairdresser patrick Cameron.

They offer a wide range of hair styles to cater for your individual needs and advise that you have a trial before your special day.

They take the time to work along side you for that perfect look, which can either be created in the salon, or a venue of your choice. For an appointment call 01935 816708.

01747 822745

✴ ✶ ✴ B’ Dazzled HAIR SALON Give your hair a new look with a touch of colour ...

✴

✶✴

February Promotion 10% oFF aLL Hair CoLour Professional Hair Design & Colours ... with Sam, Jen & Leona Wedding Day Hair and Nail Packages • Late Night Thursdays

Unit 2 Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EW Tel: 01935 816708

For professional wedding photography with a relaxed and friendly approach contact photographer, Graham Cox, LMPA, of Keinton Mandeville.

Wedding – studio – location PhOTOgraPhY

by Graham Cox LMPA

Individual – Imaginative – Professional

Albums ✽ Canvas Wraps ✽ Copying Old Photographs New INstaNt PassPort & DrIvINg LIceNce PhotograPhs – Ideal ID Bus Passes • Also Canadian Passports The studio, high street, keinton Mandeville somerset Ta11 6eD (Opposite Quarry Inn) 24 THe VISITOR February 2013

01458 223769 ( 24 Hours )

Spring Weddings An Entertainer for your Wedding

kayleigh is a professional singer, operating in the South West, performing for both public and private events. kayleigh is a competent, fun, friendly female singer, with a diverse repertoire, and can tailor her song list to suit any genre, creating a bespoke performance for any event. For enquiries or to book, please contact Tony on 07883 067575 or email: tonyfac58@hotmail.co.uk

Cross Tree House

If you are planning a West Country wedding, but have family attending from another part of the country, where and how to accommodate them can become a headache. One excellent solution is to accommodate

them altogether in a large self catering property such as Cross Tree House in Lopen. Having the family together for a private meal before the actual wedding is a wonderful send off for the bride or groom and local caterers can easily be arranged

to take away the stress of preparing the meal. With the whole family in one place last minute arrangements are a breeze and for a bride there is nothing better than having family and friends around for those final preparations.

Graham Baker and Karen Baker 3 & 20 Bond Street, YeoviL, Somerset, BA20 1Pe Tel / Fax: 01935 423257 GRAhAm & KARen invite you to view their extensive range of bridal and grooms wear.

In all styles, sizes, colours ... and shoes dyed to match!

Kayleigh

ProFeSSionAl SinGer

Bridal wear

extensive range of dresses.

Accessories such as veils, tiaras and jewellery.

Prom dresses, evening wear, ball gowns, complementary footwear and bags.

★ Song list to suit any genre ★ Private and public events

Grooms wear

EnquiRiES & BookingS contact tonY

extensive ranges of mens and boys formal wear.

Waistcoat range second to none. cravats and ruched neck wear to complement your bridesmaid choices.

07883 067575

or email tonyfac58@hotmail.co.uk

Getting married and need accommodation for the bride or groom’s family?

Cross Tree House lopen Makes a superb base venue Beautiful 17th Century thatched farmhouse ... self catering and sleeps 22 SEE

www.crosstreehouse.com oR

Tel: 01460 240476 THe VISITOR February 2013 25

Spring Weddings Just Maria

Come rain or shine on your wedding day, Just Maria of Ilchester has everything you may need ... from keeping your feet dry to keeping your head cool.

Just Maria of Ilchester don't just sell beautiful flowers, so pop in and see what else they have to offer.

Gorgeous wedding accessories; brollies, wellies, garters, pretty bags and bespoke bags for your special shoes and his! Vintage clothing, fabulous ribbons, floristry sundries and lots of unusual gifts and items for the home.

Orders are now being taken for Valentine’s Day, treat your loved one and show you care.

From March Just Maria will be hosting some floral workshops starting with an easter Garland, followed by Summer Magic in May, beginners are welcome but booking early is advisable as there are limited spaces. Call for more details on 01935 706121, info@justmaria.co.uk

♥♥♥♥♥♥

✴ Exciting NEW PREMISES Offering an even wider choice of – Beautiful Bridal Accessories inc. Wellies & Brollies Unusual and Imaginative Gifts and of course ...

Stunning Flowers for Every Occasion

Just Maria - NOW AT The old Chapel, Church Street, iLCheSTeR Tel: 01935 706121 • mobile: 07837 385734 www.justmaria.co.uk

A special moment captured forever by photographer Graham Hiscock, LBIPP LMPA, of Wincanton.

Graham Hiscock LBIPP LMPA www.camelotphotographic.co.uk • 01963 34424 3 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA

Stylish ...

Creative ...

Informal ...

Wedding and Portrait Photography Graham Hiscock LBIPP LMPA Wedding Photography naturally 26 THe VISITOR February 2013

Beauty Therapist

kayleigh is a Yeovil based Beauty Therapist, specialising in a variety of massage techniques and a wide range of traditional beauty treatments. Client satisfaction is of the upmost importance to kayleigh, who aims to cater for the individual. If you are interested in any treatments, or for more information, please get in touch at kaysalon@hotmail. co.uk

KaySalon Beautician Kayleigh Degregorio YeOViL Full Range of traditional Beauty treatments at Very Reasonable Prices ~ plus ~

therapeutic Massages including ... ✴ Swedish ✴ Aromatherapy ✴ Deep Tissue ✴ Reflexology For further details & bookings

kaysalon@hotmail.co.uk

Spring Weddings Lionel Mumford Photographer

Lionel Mumford has been been covering weddings in Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and beyond for over 20 years, offering a personal service tailored to suit your requirements.

He can offer you the options of a DVD or Wedding Album package or possibly a special package to suit a budget.

Your wedding day photography is special. It is a record not only for you after the wedding but also as a record for the future generation, so trust it only to a professional photographer who understands and cares about your needs for your special day.

Only one wedding is covered a day and Lionel Mumford is fully insured with Hiscox Insurance.

Will your photographer be insured? please book early to avoid disappointment

Exciting New Bridal shop opens in Somerton

Glastonbury Weddings – bridal shop opened in Somerton just prior to Christmas and is p e rso na l l y run b y b usi ne ss partners kaiya Churcher-Wilson and Lucille Simms.

The light and airy shop has a wonderful collection of bridal gowns including the truly fairytale ‘Disney’ range from Alfred Angelo. There is something to suit all tastes and budgets with dresses starting from £299 through to couture dresses by designer Paula Fisher.

Bridesmaids’ dresses come in a host of styles and around 100 different colour-ways. Choose from the simple and elegant styles from Alfred Angelo and Dessy or the more opulent Ruby prom collection.

There is also a good choice of accessories and shoes by Pink, which can be dyed to match any

dress on request. kaiya and Lucille look forward to welcoming you to Glastonbury Weddings & Bridalwear Ltd open Tuesday to Saturday, or by appointment to suit.

Jane’s of Somerton

Have you found Jane’s Dress Agency of Somerton yet? The stock at Jane’s is constantly changing. If you are attending a wedding, a special occasion or perhaps going on a cruise, there is

Beautiful clothes ... for any occasion Jane Lazenbury

Dress Agency

For a superb choice of quality ladies wear (sizes 8 - 26) at a fraction of their original price new, Separates, Suits and Dresses, Special Occasion Outfits, Evening Wear.

MAny DeSigner LABeLS To complement your outfit a range of Accessories: Hats, Shoes, Bags and Jewellery.

Prom Dresses, Cruise Wear, Wedding Outfits now being accepted - current styles only.

The Triangle SoMerTon TA11 6QJ

A hat is an essential part of your wedding finery. A wide selection can be found at Jane’s of Somerton.

Pictured is Kaiya Churcher-Wilson of Glastonbury Weddings & Bridalwear, which opened at the end of 2012. Here you will find everything you need to look spectacular on your wedding day.

always a good choice of occasionwear available plus hats, jewellery, shoes and bags.

Jane and her helpful staff will be pleased to advise on putting an outfit together. If you are looking for something in particular please ask, and they will try and source it for you.

Do call in, the showrooms are over two floors with an excellent range of sizes to suit everyone.

(30 yards from the Post Office)

Tel: 01458 273711

Hooper’s Hat Hire

100s of exquisite hats and fascinators to hire, buy, or made to complement your outfit

01935 706555

www.hoopershats.co.uk

The Wedding Photographer Lionel Mumford Master Wedding Photographer Telephone: 01963 250740 mobile: 07595 698788

Bridal Gowns for a Fairy Tale Wedding Bridesmaids Dresses ✳ Prom Dresses ✳ Shoes & Accessories Open Tuesday – Saturday ✳ Appointments To Suit Brandon House, West Street, SOMERTON, TA11 7PS Tel: 01458 898007 Email: info@glastonburyweddings.co.uk www.glastonburyweddings.co.uk

Please visit our website www.lionelmumford.com covering Dorset, somerset and Wiltshire for over 25 years Please book early to save disappointment

THe VISITOR February 2013 27

Spring Weddings Allum & Sidaway

For the most incomparable and romantic day the Bride and Groom, their bridesmaids, ushers

and mother of the bride, want to look exceptional and Allum & Sidaway can help with a wonderful array of jewellery perfect for that

exceptional occasion. With shops designed with warmth and style they provide a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.

Country Weddings create beautiful flowers for weddings, bringing together your aspirations and ideas and their expertise to provide the perfect look. Country Weddings will be at the Charlton House, Shepton Mallet, Showcase Event on Sunday February 3rd from 3pm and at the Holbrook House Wedding Fair on Thursday 21st February (evening).

beautiful Flowers for Weddings ...

Country Weddings As featured in Brides Magazine

Tel: 01747 860611

www.countryweddingsflowers.co.uk

They can help with the engagement ring, wedding ring, wedding gifts for all parties and all the anniversaries to come.

They offer extensive ranges and draw on the best of British manufacturers, exclusive collections from european and world wide specialists.

For something truly unique, why not let them create something personal only to you.

They offer a bespoke design service for that custom designed engagement ring or wedding ring or can even remodel existing styles.

WeDDinG BReAKFAST menUS An example of some of the dishes available for weddings at the

BEST WESTERN PLUS Swan Hotel STARTeRS caramelised carrot and orange soup Warm salmon and caper Fishcake, rocket leaf, Tomato and chilli Jam spiced ham and caramelised Apple Terrine, celeriac, hazelnut Purée scallop and cauliflower Panna cotta, Mixed leaves, olive and Parsley Pesto Maple roast Garlic and somerset brie Tart, Mulled Pear chutney mAin CoURSeS chicken supreme, oven roast Tomato and Thyme Provençal sauce roast rib eye of Free range Pork, cider brandy cream roast Topside of beef, Yorkshire Pudding, Gravy baked salmon Fillet, Wholegrain Mustard and herb cream sauce seasonal Vegetarian risotto, Parmesan and rocket DeSSeRTS crème caramel Panna cotta, Almond crunch and espresso syrup Dark belgian chocolate and Poached Pear Torte, Whisky Truffle cream iced Pineapple Parfait, Passion Fruit syrup and Mango coulis Traditional lemon Tart, blackcurrant coulis sticky Toffee Pudding, butterscotch sauce 3 Courses - £38.00 per person Includes Coffee and Mints

A delicious wedding breakfast menu and perfect presentation ... at The Swan Hotel, Wells.

28 THe VISITOR February 2013

Spring Weddings But whether you want to be modern, timeless, romantic, vintage, traditional, unique or glitzy, they are unmistakably yours on that day and for every day to come.

Allum & Sidaway have stores in Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Salisbury, Dorchester and Ringwood or visit www.allumand sidaway.co.uk

House and Garden Flowers

Liz Hull of House and Garden Flowers is full of inspirational ideas for bespoke floral decorations on every scale. Liz likes to work with traditional, country garden flowers – such as roses, cornflowers and sweet peas to make stunning natural looking fragrant arrangements. If requested, Liz can put together floral arrangements that will dry naturally so that they are preserved as a memento.

On a larger scale, for gazebos and marquees House and Garden Flowers offer hanging

arrangements as an alternative option or to accompany table decorations.

Liz can supply and arrange fabulous flowers for weddings, parties and events. For the festive season House and Garden Flowers can design and provide you with attractive door wreaths and table decorations for your home.

Liz is pleased to discuss your personal requirements and can tailor arrangements to suit your budget. please call 01963 370671 to discuss.

One World

If you are looking for an unusual wedding gift, a visit to One World in South petherton is a must.

Here you will find six individual showrooms over two floors displaying a beautiful range of gift items from around the world, and many of them fairtrade.

Ceramic pots, wooden figures, rugs and hand made glass vases make unique gifts - you will also find within One World unusual

greetings cards and stationery items to wrap your gift.

There is a stunning range of silver jewellery which would make an ideal gift for an older bridesmaid, and for the younger bridesmaid and pageboy there is a department with a wonderful selection of traditional toys and soft toys, including beautiful hand puppets.

One World is an amazing store, do call in.

Wild Cardz

Wild Cardz specialize in balloon artistry for special occasions.

They will co-ordinate colours and themes to suit your requirements and a portfolio of their work can be viewed for ideas.

If you wish to DIY, Wild Cardz can provide the balloons, helium cannister and decorative weights.

Wild Cardz have a card shop in Wincanton High Street where you can purchase a wide range of cards, plus wedding stationery - from albums to place cards.

Wedding table decorations such as confetti and champagne bubbles are also on sale.

Valentine cards and ‘From Me To You’ range of gifts now in.

signs, rustic wicker hearts, wedding gift list, personalised wedding hamper to a Mr & Mrs Heart Sign. They can look after all of your catering from the elegant wedding cake to creative cupcakes, to the wedding buffet or perhaps an afternoon tea for a garden party. pop in and speak to kate who would be delighted to assist you with all your wedding needs to make it a day to remember forever or email: kate@living pretty.co.uk or call 01458 253357, www.livingpretty.co.uk

Wedding Bells, Bunting & Beautiful Cupcakes

Living pretty is the perfect place to host a hen party, gather friends and family to treat the bride-to-be to a champagne afternoon cream tea. They have lots of ideas and little touches to make your big day a beautiful vintage dream.

From Jumbleberry Jam Favours to vintage china rental, cake stand hire, bespoke table name

This beautiful wedding gown is from the Alfred Angelo Collection, available at Glastonbury Weddings & Bridalwear, in Somerton.

Balloons for your Special Day For a wonderfully fragrant bouquet, sprigs of Lavender and Rosemary were added to this arrangement, by Liz Hull of House & Garden Flowers.

arches - table decorations - foil Balloons Call to discuss your personal requirements Wedding stationery ★ Table confetti ★ helium hire etc. ♥ VALENTINE GIFTS & CARDS ♥

Wild Cardz

35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU • Tel: 01963 31234

Weddings, Parties and Events Tel: Liz Hull 01963 370671

17 St. James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166 THe VISITOR February 2013 29

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE Family Health with

Jenna evans Superfoods Part 26

THIS MONTH we’re back continuing our series on everyday ‘superfoods’.

Pumpkin Seeds – The seeds of the pumpkin (Curcurbita pepo – described in a previous article) are flat, dark green, rugby ball shaped seeds with a nutty and sweet flavour. Although pumpkin seeds are traditionally associated with the autumn harvest (the closest contact some of us may have had with this seed is when carving a Halloween pumpkin) they are a nutritionally dense food that can easily be enjoyed at all times of the year. pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein and fibre as well as the nutrients copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc and B vitamins.

They also contain healthy mono-

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unsaturated fats and plant sterols. pumpkin seeds have been used in many cultures as a medicine, especially in the treatment of intestinal worms.

Nowadays they are most prized for supporting prostate health.

The high levels of zinc, goods fats and the plant sterols (including beta sitosterol) indicate pumpkin seeds can pack a powerful punch in the prevention and treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement), an uncomfortable condition that becomes increasing common in men over 50, affecting up to 90% of men by the age of 90.

Try a handful or two of the seeds a day or find a good quality pumpkin seed oil to drizzle over foods or eat straight from the spoon as a supplement. In rare cases, pumpkin seeds may cause allergy.

Sesame Seeds – Sesame seeds come from an annual plant (Sesamum indicum) that produces small pods. The Arabian phrase ‘open sesame’ is thought to originate from sesame pods bursting open when ripe. These tiny little seeds have a high oil content which makes them vulnerable to rancidity so care must be taken throughout the harvest and storage processes.

An ancient food, there is an Assyrian legend that the gods drank sesame wine the night before creating the earth.

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium, protein and monounsaturated fats. They also provide ample fibre, iron, magnesium, zinc and lignans - a group of phytoestrogens, lignans can bind to oestrogen receptors in the body and are popular to aid women going through the menopause. They may also lend protection against oestrogen dependant cancers.

Some research indicates compounds in sesame may help

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manage cholesterol and blood pressure levels as well as behave as anti-oxidants. Sesame seeds are a lubricating tonic for the digestive system in traditional medicine, improving constipation and treating intestinal worms.

Sesame oil is wonderfully rich and nourishing when used as a massage oil, making it useful for dry and irritated skins.

Sesame seeds contain moderate amounts of oxalic acid, so those with a history of oxalate containing kidney stones should avoid over consumption.

It is recommended that you source nuts and seeds from a reliable supplier (you’ll be hard pushed to beat sourcing from your local health food store, especially one who has in house packing facilities such as Ceres!) Nuts and seeds (especially peanuts) are prone to contamination, especially from fungi such as aspergillus which produces the poison aflatoxin – bird lovers will no doubt be familiar with this as good quality commercial bird feeds are aflatoxin tested. When seasonally available, nuts in shells are often preferred. Leave them in their shells until you eat them. For unshelled nuts and seeds, keep them refrigerated and use within 6 months. A lot of nutritionists and raw food fans like to soak nuts and seeds overnight in water to start the sprouting process. This disables some of the enzyme inhibitors present, allowing for better nutrient absorption.

See you next month!

Jenna Evans.

Never dramatically change your diet without the guidance of a health professional, especially if you have an existing health issue.

Ceres Natural Foods in Yeovil have a good selection of nuts and seeds and can help with any further queries you may have.

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Wine & Dine Valentine’s Day

How will you be celebrating Valentine’s Day this year?

Will you be jetting off to paris for a romantic weekend with the intention of popping the question?

Will you be wining and dining your beloved in a fashionable restaurant, or treating him/her to a meal at your local pub? Or perhaps you’re cooking a cosy meal for two in the comfort of your own home?

Whatever you’re planning or whatever your budget allows, a little something homemade in the confectionery line is always a treat and it shows you’re thoughtful and caring. So here are a couple of simple recipes for you to impress.

Chocolate Rum Truffles Ingredients 225g plain chocolate 2 egg yolks 25g butter 10ml rum 15ml single cream Drinking chocolate powder Method 1. Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of hot water (make sure the bowl does not touch the water).

2. Add the egg yolks, butter, rum and cream and stir until the mixture is thick enough to handle.

3. When the mixture is cool enough to handle form into balls then roll them in the chocolate powder.

4. Leave until firm then place in paper cases.

Brandy can replace the rum to make Chocolate Brandy Truffles.

Chocolate Nut Truffles Ingredients 100g plain chocolate, finely grated 25g chopped mixed nuts 50g icing sugar 1-2 drops of vanilla flavouring 15ml single cream (approx.)

Chocolate vermicelli Method 1. put the chocolate, nuts and sugar into a bowl and add 1-2 drops of vanilla flavouring and enough cream to blind all the ingredients together.

2. Form into small balls and roll

Wine & Dine them in the vermicelli.

3. When firm put into paper cases.

Pancake Day

If you’re out and about in the vicinity of Glastonbury on Tuesday 12th February (that’s pancake Day if you didn’t already know) then drop in to The Somerset Rural Life Museum where they will be cooking pancakes in the Victorian kitchen.

All ages are welcome and it’s free to drop in between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

Chef of the Future Contest Now Open

submit full details of your menu (including an ingredients list) and an explanation of why you think you should be our Chef of the Future 2013. For a full set of competition rules and details visit www.cordonvert.co.uk/chefofthefu ture or call the Cordon Vert team on 0161 925 2000.

Alex Connell, principal Tutor at the Cordon Vert, said, ‘We’re after fresh, innovative dishes that celebrate quality vegetarian or vegan food. Dishes should be presented to the highest standards, able to hold their own for vegetarian and meat eating audiences alike. The three

Whether you’re a budding amateur or a professional chef out to prove your mettle, if you think you have what it takes, now is the time to start your bid to be named Cordon Vert Chef of the Future 2013. The live final, on Wednesday 8th May, will see four contestants producing a three course meal, plated for four people, within three hours.

Written applications need to be in by 15th April. You’ll need to

courses should complement one another and have a good contrast of texture, colour and flavour.’

The judging panel consists of Alex Connell, Cordon Vert principal Tutor, Jane Hughes, Cordon Vert Tutor, food writer and editor of the Vegetarian magazine, Mike Haddow, Group executive Chef - Shire Hotels and Thwaites Inns of Character, Robert Higginson, Sous Chef

Dettoris Restaurant - Cresta Court Hotel, Altrincham.

The Cordon Vert School has an unrivalled reputation for excellent and innovative vegetarian cuisine drawing on a variety of international flavours and ingredients reflecting current trends in world cuisine with fresh and imaginative ideas. For more information on professional and leisure courses visit www.cordonvert.co.uk

TRUFFLES RESTAURANT & BISTRO, Bruton Valentine’s Day Dinner – Thursday 14th, Friday 15th and Saturday 16th February stARteRs Jerusalem Artichoke Velouté, Sauted Girolle Mushrooms Terrine of Foie Gras & Ham Hock, Apple Purée, Toasted Brioche Pan Fried Hand Dived Scallops, Keta Caviar, Cauliflower Purée & Truffles Goat’s Cheese Tortellini, Beetroot Carpaccio & Horseradish Cream MAins Confit Loch Duart Salmon, Shellfish Bisque, Pink Fir Apples & Braised Fennel Roast Fillet of Line Caught Sea Bass, Salsify, Truffle Mash & Red Wine Jus Corn-Fed Chicken Breast, Puy Lentils & Morteau Sausage, Parmentière Potatoes Butternut & Pecorino Cheese Risotto, Purple Sprouting & Truffle Shavings desseRts Apple Tarte Tatin, Caramel Sauce & Vanilla Ice Cream (for 2) Valrhona Chocolate Mousse, Raspberry Sorbet Champagne Rhubarb & Vanilla Trifle, Chantilly Cream Coffee Crème Brulée, Shortbread Biscuit

£ 6cl0udinpgerGlacossu of

ple

In

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foR ReseRVAtions tel: 01749 812180 or email: bookings@trufflesbistro.co.uk

imaginative food served in the relaxed atmosphere of ...

The

Orangery Brasserie

MulTi-aWard Winning chef deruke Tee has recently been appointed head chef at ash House Hotel, ash, and this month sees the launch of his exciting new seasonal menu.

With a passion for quality food, Deruke has sourced all of his ingredients locally when possible. Amongst the mouth-watering dishes on the menu is his signature dish of Rabbit and Langoustine Cannelloni, celeriac, apple and sage salad with peas and girolles.

The well-established gardens will start to provide fresh herbs as well as home grown vegetables for the kitchen, and free range chickens ensure only the freshest of eggs! A new greenhouse has recently been added and plans to raise their own pigs are afoot.

The Orangery Brasserie is light and airy with a beautiful outlook across the stunning gardens. The comfortable seating and tranquil ambience makes it an ideal venue whether enjoying lunch or dinner with friends or Sunday lunch with the family.

The Orangery is open every day serving residents and non-residents everything from light lunches through to evening meals. The menu is well priced with a two course lunch for just £12.50 but should you desire a lighter bite - dishes such as homemade soup, served with freshly baked bread are readily available.

In addition to the Orangery, diners may also eat in the bar or in the elegant Red Dining Room which is also very popular for private parties, shoots etc.

There will of course be a special Valentines menu for which

The

early bookings are advised and on the 23rd February there is a special Tasting menu with Wine pairing. The food will be prepared

by Deruke and the wine expertly described by Andrew kindness, wine consultant to Lesley Waters. Wines have been selected to complement each course – this will be both a fun and informative evening and bookings are now being taken – full menu can be found on the website.

The Ash House Hotel is owned by Gordon Doodson who, since taking over three years ago, has gradually restored this imposing Georgian House to its former glory and the quality food and friendly welcome has put the Orangery firmly on the map with diners. Situated in the village of Ash, a mile off the A303 – 5 miles from Yeovil.

Orangery Brasserie at ash House Hotel, ash nr. Martock, Ta12 6BP Tel: 01935 822036 • www.ashhousehotel.co.uk

aCCOMMODaTiOn - Fine Dining – COnFerenCes – eVenTs – WeDDings THe VISITOR February 2013 31

MOTOR VINTAGE Motor Cycling WITH THe exCeSSeS of Christmas well behind us and the resolutions made at New Year either long forgotten or by now going well and showing results, I wish that all you hope for yourselves in 2013 will be realised. Creeping towards the end of January for me is a time to look ahead.

It is a grey time of year but we are now more than half way through the long winter period with the promise of Spring and brighter times not too far away.

Therefore a time to be positive and look forward to the riding season ahead. I have completed my riding calendar for the year, but it can be changed, and there are very few weekends when there is not an event available to me. So let the good times roll once more.

During February the Somerset Section has its club night at Cossington on the 7th (AGM and Film Show) followed on the 22nd by the Annual Dinner, and on the 24th will have Ralph’s Run from evercreech. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section will have its club night on the 11th. The Dorset Section has a Winter Run from Wincanton on the 10th and on the 13th have a film show at its club night. All will be welcome at any of these events. All Sections, together with all local classic clubs, will be in attendance at The Bristol Classic Bike Show on the 16th and 17th February.

Always a good show held at the Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet. Apart from the glittering bikes on show there is always a large autojumble to find those vital parts you need, and all those consumables needed in our hobby. To anyone interested in old motorcycles this show is one not to be missed.

This time of year sees a proliferation of clubs having their Annual General Meetings. These meetings are a bit dull and tedious and so are often poorly attended. These meetings are however of vital importance to keep our clubs going. The events

gliDerOl garage DOOrs All garage doors are different, so as a roller door specialist, (I don’t replace windows, etc.) I can survey, quote and install to your requirements and make the most of your garage opening, as generally no frame is necessary. With the option of automated operation with remote control, a top quality garage door need only be a phone call away.

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we enjoy all the year do not happen by accident and need careful planning. every event needs at least one person to undertake the organisation and the necessary paperwork.

Without these people club life and events would not happen. I implore all club members to get involved with club responsibilities and help wherever possible. The more people getting involved means the work can be spread more thinly and an easier life for all involved. The old adage is that the more effort you put into something the more enjoyment you get out of it, is certainly true in these circumstances. Too many members only want to ride their bikes and are happy that others do the work for them. I urge you all to get involved, organising events is never as daunting as you initially think.

Speaking to friends recently reminded me as to how diverse the hobby of old motorcycles can be. I simply use my machines for road events only. ever since motorcycles were invented different ways have been found for owners to amuse themselves in competitive activities, and most of these activities are still continued today. The earliest competitions took the form of reliability trials, as machines improved then speeds increased and these events developed into road racing. Scrambles was circuit racing off road until the name was changed in the 1970’s

and became Motocross. Trials have always been non-timed but involved riding over obstacles without stopping and footing.

There are also the sports of Hill Climbing, Sprinting and many others. The only once popular motorcycle sport which has been lost is that of Moto-Ball, which in effect was football on motorcycles. All these variations are still thriving and can be done locally. Most involve adapting a standard machine for whichever purpose it is now intended.

Therefore some of these sports are relatively cheap and easy to start off your competitive career.

Others do need the best of the latest machinery to be seriously competitive thereby necessitating either deep pockets or better still some sponsorship. perhaps you may consider taking part in some sort of motorcycle sport yourself, worth some thought! events in the Hann garage have come to a grinding halt.

Circumstances have dictated that my time has been diverted to other matters. Also my temporary workshop has been very damp of late, causing my tools to become rusty and my machines wet with condensation. When the weather cheers up and things improve then I will have lots of work to put the damp damage right. I cannot wait to have a new garage building taking shape and work should start in the spring. Until then I will content myself with looking after the few machines I can use. I am still making some progress with my Rover project.

All the paintwork is away for final top coating and should be returned shortly which will allow me to start bolting together the bits that have been restored to date. I hope to soon have the wheel components all completed which means I can then build the wheels, fit tyres, and then get the thing back as a rolling chassis.

Things always become easier when the bike can be moved around the workshop without heavy lifting.

My picture this month was taken at the Dorset Sections New Year Days Run. It shows pat Masters (hand on bike) from Sherborne talking to peter Hallowes from Sturminster Newton. A good turnout and an excellent run made for a good day out, and if you look carefully you may even see a glimpse of sunshine in the background.

Rod Hann.

House & Home The Trend for Big Bloomers

If you're looking to make an impact with your interior design this season, flower power is where it's at!

‘Move over geometrics and stripes because large scale and bright, bold flowers are blossoming in a big way,’ says Sarah Quilliam, head of product

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THE VISITOR February 2013 33

House & Home design for Hillarys, the UK's number one provider of made-tomeasure window treatments.

Florals can be used in any room, but tend to feature more in relaxing bedrooms and living rooms - anywhere where you'd like that softer feel. Having said that, a bouquet of bold florals can look fabulous in an industrial kitchen or chic pared down bathroom.

At the moment, small, ditsy and repeated floral patterns can look a little dated. The modern floral vibe, even if delicate in design and colour is large, bold and impactful to give a real ‘wow’ factor to your scheme.

For real effect, think about confining your florals to accents only.

In a muted room full of whites,

creams or pale neutral shades, funky floral accessories from cushions to curtains can create a contemporary feel. Don't be afraid to mix bold petals with softer,

more wistful pieces to create the perfect look.

For more information call Hillarys on 0800 916 6516 or visit hillarys.co.uk

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Cary Tiles Ltd

Spoilt for Choice Over 300 Sample Boards Floor and Wall Tiles

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For advice or information ring Tim or Heidi or call in and see us 34 THE VISITOR February 2013

House & Home KiTchen TalK Keeping your child safe in the kitchen

It’s important to make sure your child/children are safe in the kitchen; most of this is down to common sense and being aware of the potential risks.

1. Make sure all medicines and bleaches etc. are locked away in a cupboard with a child lock or are up high and well out of your child’s reach.

2. When cooking with saucepans always make sure the handles are not hanging over the worktop, just waiting to be pulled over by little hands.

Move them to the side well out of reach.

3. If you spill anything mop it up straight away to avoid anyone slipping in it.

4. Don’t allow your children to play on the floor with toys, it is so easy to trip over one when you are carrying a pan of boiling water, instead encourage colouring or some building blocks, something that can be done sat at the table or breakfast bar.

5. Always make sure kettles, toasters and irons are out of reach. When you have finished with the iron unplug and move well out of reach so it can’t be grabbed and pulled down on to a little one.

6. If you have a traditional chip pan swap it for a much safer deep fat fryer.

7. Make sure that your sockets are not over loaded and that plugs are removed when not in use.

If you are considering a new kitchen then there are lots of new

and clever ideas to help keep your children safe. Safe lifts for knives and medicines, child locks for doors to keep harmful substances out of reach.

Why not pop into your Intoto showroom and ask about these and if you’re thinking of a new kitchen collect a brochure.

Sandra Fox, Intoto Kitchens.

freezers? How much space do you need in each? Can you cope with a smaller freezer if you have a chest freezer in the garage?

Would you like this built in to your bank of units or would you rather go for a big, free-standing American freezer? These are very

popular and fit well into most kitchen designs providing you have a fairly big room, otherwise it can overpower the whole design of the kitchen. If you decide to opt for one with an ice or water dispenser remember this will require a water supply and you

Which appliance suits my needs

When designing your kitchen the appliances play a very big part in the design. You may think you want an oven, hob, dishwasher etc., how simple. But, do you want a double oven, or a single oven?

The latest trend seems to be for 2 single ovens and these to be built into a bank of units along with other appliances. However, maybe you would favour a range cooker?

What about fridges and

ACF WindoWS Andy FElThAm UPVC REPLACEmENT WINDOWs, DOORs, CONsERVATORIEs, WOODEN FRAmED WINDOWs, FAsCIA BOARDs, CLADDINg, gUTTERINg, ALUmINIUm WINDOWs & DOORs ETC.

The old Well House shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GillinGHam, dorset sP8 5HX Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 mobile: 07802 393344

Inspirational Vinyl Flooring by ‘Moduleo’ Available in Natural Wood or Stone Effect ‘Select Range’ for residential use – 15 Year Guarantee

rEpair sErvicE ★ All makes of TV repaired ★ On the premises workshop

★ Loan TV whilst being repaired

★ Estimates ★ Bench or field service Full rangE oF panasonic tvs in stock For salE ... do call in

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38 St. James Street South petherton ta13 5BW  01460 240645

‘Transform Range’ for Commercial use – 20 Year Guarantee available with Click Technology for easy installation ★ Sound insulating ★ Moisture resistant ★ Guaranteed to Last ★ Warm to the touch ★ Scuff and Stain resistant

CAll IN ANd SEE thE Full rANgE At your loCAl dEAlEr SJH Carpets, tythings Commercial Centre, Wincanton  01963 824418 Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 1pm also at: High Street, tisbury  01747 871178 (closed Wednesday)

Wincanton

THE VISITOR February 2013 35

House & Home will need to consider where the pipework goes. Remember too that they have big doors, often needing a gap to the side so that they can be opened back properly.

Would you like a wine cooler in your new kitchen? These can range from a slim-line built in model to a large freestanding model, but do you have enough room?

Do you have room to fit in a dishwasher? There are many styles on the market, from the normal full size models, ideal for large families, to slim line models which are great for couples or if you live on your own. Do you want integrated or free standing?

Maybe you need to consider a compact dishwasher which can

needful Things Interiors

 curTain MaKing  Fabrics - Furniture - Paint Wallpaper - Carpets

7 high Street, castle cary 01963 351352 www.needfulthings.uk.com

Wonderful fabrics from Harlequin add a touch of elegance to any room.

For the full range visit Needful Things of Castle Cary.

be built-in and line up with the compact oven. Or would you like to make the dishwasher a feature in the kitchen with the stainless steel double drawer dishwasher?

✔ Recomendations - The vast majority of our customers  come from recommendation by happy customers

✔ Quality - All our kitchens are of the highest quality  ✔ Choice - We have over 400 Kitchens to choose from. 

A dedicated granite Room & Replacement door department.

✔ Value - All our Kitchens are competitively priced  ✔ design - We design your kitchen the way you want it  based upon your individual requirements

✔ Installation - We have some of the finest Kitchen 

installers and associated trades to be found locally

The right fridge can keep food fresher for longer – avoiding food waste

✔ Experience - Together we have over 500 years experience  ✔ Showroom - You can visit our 2500 sq ft showroom  on Preston Road Yeovil - FREE OFF ROAD PARKINg OPEN 6 DAYs A WEEK

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01935 472100

higher Preston Farm, Preston Road yEoVIl, BA20 2ET (Just down from ASDA) www.kitchen-updates.co.uk 36 THE VISITOR February 2013

Each drawer washes independently so you can wash glasses etc. in the top drawer and saucepans in the bottom. Or just use them individually. While one is washing, dirty dishes can be loaded in to the other one.

With so much choice today it is always a good idea to buy from a showroom where you can see a range of appliances, feel the quality and know that they will arrive with your kitchen if all ordered from one place.

Pop into Intoto Kitchens in Yeovil and have a look at their range of appliances.

Town Centre mudford

Kitchens & Updates Zoe’s Hair

ASDA

Town Centre houndstone

Preston Road Ilchester

Retail Park

Double the storage life of meat and fish – and keep fresh fruit and vegetables for several days longer in the Electrolux Inspiration Fridge Freezer.

According to the BBC a UKbased report has claimed that as much as half of the world’s food, amounting to two billion tonnes

House & Home worth, ends up being thrown away. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers said the waste was being caused by poor

storage, strict sell-by dates, bulk offers and consumer fussiness.

Electrolux offer a solution to overcome the poor storage reason.

By investing in a good quality fridge storage life can be dramatically improved.

Electrolux’s latest fridge

Much to the delight of the customer, John Hamblin Furniture Restorer of Yeovil has transformed this 400 year old reclaimed monastery door into a contemporary glass topped table. This is just one of many interesting and unusal projects undertaken by John and his team.

freezers feature TwinTech cooling technology for longer lasting freshness.

Electrolux is number one supplier to professional kitchens in Europe and supplies 50% of Michelin star restaurants with appliances, including fridges. The new domestic range of Inspiration appliances feature technology inspired by Professional refrigeration. Twin Tech comprises two separate cooling systems which serve the fridge and freezer independently. This stops food from drying out in the fridge and prevents any frost build up in the freezer.

When stored in the Electrolux TwinTech FrostFree fridge, fruit and vegetables stay fresher for days longer: Pak Choi lasts 5 days longer Strawberries last 3 days longer Celery lasts 3 days longer Kiwi fruit lasts 3 days longer.

Meat and fish storage life is doubled when kept in the Electrolux FreshZone area.

JOhn haMBlin Specialists in the repair and restoration of antique furniture We also offer the following services

• repairs to all types of Furniture • Bespoke Furniture made to order • French Polishing • re-leathering of desk tops, Bureaux, etc.

• dining table tops refinished We have many years experience in the trade and assure you that your furniture is in safe hands uniT 6, 15 OXFOrD rOaD Pen Mill TraDing eSTaTe YeOVil, SOMerSeT, Ba21 5hr Tel: 01935 471154 Cabinet Makers • Antique Furniture restorers

john@jhamblin.fsnet.co.uk

Stock Rolls & Remnants SToCked ● Carpets and Flooring ● Vinyls and Laminates ● Solid & engineered Wood ● Safety Floor Specialists ● Mattresses and 3-Piece Suites ● natural Flooring inc. Sisal & Seagrass ● Mats / runners Made-to-Measure ● Domestic & Commercial

STYleTil e

HiDeR HeatinG

Wall & Floor tiles

Specialists in Installation & Service

‘ideal’ Standard Bathrooms Showers and Saunas On Display Supplied and Fitted All Types of Building and Renovation Work Undertaken

All TypeS of plUmBing Central Heating Systems, Boiler replacement Landlord Safety Checks and Servicing Gas and Oil established over 40 years rely on us for all Plumbing & Heating needs Specialist in Bathroom Designs including all tiling & electrics

u u u a Superb Choice u u u

Free Estimates – Professional Fitting Available Showrooms, evercreech Junction, Shepton Mallet, Ba4 6na On the main a371 between Shepton Mallet and Castle Cary

tel: 01749 831578

tel / Fax: 01749 831666

Reg. No. 700

www.hiderheating.co.uk tel: 01935 426209 • Mobile: 07836 773152 11 Hillgrove Avenue, Yeovil, Somerset THE VISITOR February 2013 37

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

MY THAnKS to all of you who take the trouble to drop me a line about various aspects of pubs and beer that we raise in this column.

One correspondent took me to task about my promotion of foreign beers (American particularly) and then telling you that you must support your local pub! Whilst there’s more than a modicum of truth in this statement, the amount of foreign beers we do drink is miniscule compared to the English ales we buy in pubs - and indeed the English bottled beers we purchase. Hopefully with the latter, we are able to buy in the smaller and/or specialized outlets.

Over the Christmas period we did just that – in fact the largest establishment we visited was good old Marks and Spencer.

(Under duress initially, I don’t do ‘shopping’). I shall be saving our experience with these beers for a future date. However, those I must mention now include a couple from Sharp’s Brewery in Cornwall. Do you remember

‘Chalky’s Bite’? It was produced in conjunction with Chef Rick Stein and was designed to go with food, a move which the Baxter crew certainly applaud. We gave it a good review in these columns and now we’ve discovered ‘Chalky’s Bark’ on the shelves of

Dike’s supermarket in Stalbridge.

At only 4.5%ABV and measuring a mere 330ml, it is also quite expensive; though there is no mention on the label about matching it with food. However, I see no reason why one should not do this. It was very pleasant

Over the festive break, Vinny ventured out of Dorset to visit The Wyndham Arms at Kingbury Episcopi

The Rose & Crown

Bradford Abbassaturd • Tel: 01935 474506 saturday 2nd February: FLATLAND BOOGIE BAND sunday 10th February: OpEN JAm SESSION – all welcome Friday 15th February: HOBO JONES and the JUNKYARD DOGS sunday 17th February: CHARITY QUIz NIGHT ... in aid of Musgrove Park Hospital ✽ SUNDAY CARVERY ✽ bookings advised

B&B

Mark & Isabel welcome you to the

Crown & Victoria Inn Farm Street, TInTInhull nr. Yeovil BA22 8PZ

♥ Valentine’s Day Dinner ♥ Thursday 14 th February

Also available on Friday 15 February • £24.95 pp (early bookings advised) th

STArTerS Beetroot and sour cream soup with a crusty roll Steamed Cornish mussels with shallots in cider Duck liver parfait with red onion jam and toast Baked Camembert with oregano and caramelised onion focaccia ***************** Champagne sorbet ***************** MAInS Pan fried chicken breast with a wild mushroom sauce, potato hash brown and crispy proscuttio ham and fresh vegetables local Somerset pork belly in spices with parsnip puree, mashed potato and fresh vegetables Pan fried Cornish megrim sole served with a medley of wild mushrooms, sauté potatoes and fresh vegetables roasted butternut squash, red pepper and Capricorn goat’s cheese tartlets with a hot salad vegetable medley ***************** SweeTS lime leaf crème brulee with blueberry and lemon grass jelly and pear sorbet Pineapple, passion fruit and mango pavlova hot chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream and cherries in kirsch where possible our food is locally sourced and free range / organic. It is freshly prepared and made here at the Crown and Victoria Inn. If you have any specific dietary needs please let us know B eAuTIFul GArDenS • reAl AleS • AMPle PArkInG • e nSuITe A CCoMMoDATIon

Bookings Tel: 01935 823341 Fax: 01935 825786 • email: info@thecrownandvictoria.co.uk www.thecrownandvictoria.co.uk 38 THE VISITOR February 2013

The

lnut Tree a W Freehouse

Shaftesbury Road, Mere, Wilts

Freehouse

Shaftesbury Road, Mere, Wiltshire

Valentine’s Menu

Thursday 14th & Friday 15th February 3 Courses £19.95

✳ Luxury AccommodATion ✳ available on 14th February

www.walnut-tree-inn.co.uk • 01747 861220 “Good food - good wines - good times”

The

Pub Pages

indeed, and got our vote as one of the top beers we sampled over the festive period/new year. The legend on the label waxes lyrical,

with which I will not bore you, dear reader, other than it does contain ginger, which we thought was a good move. Another, purchased at Dikes again, came from Sharp’s, a Quadrupel ale at a healthy 10%ABV. I was even given a glass to go with this, very much like one would get in Belgium, where every beer has its own glass to show it off in the best way. Both these beers were excellent and I would heartily recommend anyone who likes a quality ale to seek them out.

Speed may be of the essence here, as Molson Coors took over Sharp’s in February 2011.

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley - Live Music

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

Dinnington, Nr Hinton St. George Somerset Tel: 01460 52397 • Email: hilary@dinningtondocks.co.uk

6 Nations Rugby Live on the Big Screen

5 SHADES of PiE - a different pie available each week to reflect the nationality of England’s opposition Available throughout the game £5 per person

Valentine’s Day

This year we are offering our FuLL AWARD WiNNiNG MENu ... plus a choice of SENSuOuS SPEciALS Large Dover Sole for Sharing if pre-ordered by 7th February

Montague Inn Shepton Montague nr. Bruton Tel: 01749 813213

VALENTINE’s th

Thursday 14 February 3 Course Dinner Glass of Champagne £35 per person Add a third person for £25

Manor house inn Ditcheat

Nr. Shepton Mallet BA4 6RB • Tel: 01749 860276

AcouSTic NiGHT

After two successful evenings of acoustic at The Manor our next event will be on Thursday 7th February with our Host A. J. Webber.

OnCe aGain Andrias Guerin – local Irish Jockey hopes to be with us. as everyone knows after his two previous visits to the club, he has become a firm favourite and has enthralled the audience with his excellent songs, brilliant voice and ‘dry’ sense of humour! Hilary Pavey will be our main guest of the evening, and is one of the most talented singer songwriters to emerge from the West Country in recent years. Tickets are only £3 and available from The Manor House inn and also on the door and food will be available from 6pm for those who wish to grab a bite before the entertainment begins.

PiE & PiNT NiGHT

Every Tuesday / Wednesday throughout February CHOiCe of 3 Delicious Homemade Pies and your choice of a Pint, Small Glass of Wine, or a Soft Drink – £10 per person.

Booking advised.

❤ VALENTiNES MENu ❤ To START Scallops in Shells with asian Spices and Micro Salad crab Salad with Wasabi & Cucumber Sauce Lobster and crab Soup with Chilli Crouton Quenelles of Brie Mousse on Crostinis & red Current Dressing Fresh Mussels cooked in White Wine, Cream, Garlic & Parsley Pan-fried Pigeon Salad, topped with crispy Parmasan and Bacon Crisp & Port Syrup

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤

~ The ~

❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤

INDIAN COOKERY CLAss - by -

Bini Ludlow AS SEEN on TV

Monday 11th February, 7pm £35 per person Includes Supper and a Glass of Wine

2 Course Lunch Deal £ 10 - Monday to Saturday simple supper Nights - Tuesdays steak Nights - Mondays

To folloW Salmon Wellington with Dill crushed new Potatoes and Saffron Fish Cream Venison Rump on a Parsnip rosti with Cherry & Port reduction chicken Roulade stuffed with Sun Blushed tomatoes on a bed of wilted Spinach with a Yellow Pepper Sauce Pork Fillet stuffed with Black Pudding & wrapped in smoked Bacon, Dauphinoise Potato, apple Sauce & Brandy Jus Pan-fried Duck Breast on a bed of wilted Greens with a rich red Wine Sauce open Filo Tart filled with Wild Mushrooms, Lentils & Spinach, topped with a nutty Crumble and served with a smooth Cheese Sauce pUddingS chocolate Popping candy Mousse served with fresh Fruit Compote Black cherry clafoutis Passion Fruit crème Brûlée Trio of Desserts: cinnamon Panacotta with Mulled Wine Compote White chocolate Mousse with Balsamic Strawberries & Crumble topping Vanilla cheesecake with Black Cherries Manor cheese Board with Biscuits, Celery & Grapes Tea / coffee with Home-made chocolate

£25.00 per person

www.manorhouseinn.co.uk THE VISITOR February 2013 39

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Pub Pages

Although these new owners have given a guarantee that they will keep the brewery operational, I personally do not trust any of these mega-brewers, if their track record has been anything to go by. Eighty people are directly employed here; I wonder what they thought of Bill Sharp when he sold up? Indeed I have seen their flag-ship ale now being referred to as ‘Doomed Bar’.

Just because it is ‘real’ doesn’t mean that every ale is good, or dare I say it; drinkable! We had a couple of experiences over the Christmas break where for a while we thought ‘is it us?’ We came to the conclusion that it wasn’t us, the beer wasn’t ‘off’, but just plain undrinkable! It didn’t matter what the legend on the label said and how wonderful were the fine ingredients, the fact was the beer

was awful, plain and simple. Let’s hope there are not too many people out there who wanted to try ale for the first time and tasted this one. This has happened to us more than once in a pub, most recently at Sherborne’s ‘Digby Tap’ where we were served a pint of some northern brew that was quite honestly, horrid. On duty behind the bar was the landlord himself (Oliver) and I said ‘Olly this beer is horrid!’ he said ‘no problem, what else would you like?’ and chucked it away and exchanged it for my choice which was the everdependable ‘Otter’. Would a landlord of less calibre done the same though? What are your ‘rights’, when it comes to a pint? A beer which is clearly past its sell-by date is one thing; one that is simply not what you expect … well, that could be another. I think it would be a good public relations exercise to do what Olly did, but they’re not all like him, are they?

On the pub front there is some good news locally-ish, as my old local boozer from days of yore, the ‘Railway Hotel’ at the bottom of Hendford Hill in Yeovil has reopened, although sadly the pub with the unique name – The Picketty Witch – looks like it may become yet another Tesco Express. Rather unfortunately we have lost the Bell Inn, a

The Queens Arms Corton Denham, Sherborne, Somerset, DT9 4LR “MEET THE BREWER” Join

Alastair Hook Brewmaster and Founder of ...

Meantime Brewing Company for a

Beer and Food Matching Night On Friday 22nd February at 7.00pm ( * These special nights are normally only held in London at The Old Brewery )

The evening commences with an optional hour long tutored tasting on that evenings beers by beer sommelier Alastair Hook.

This will be followed by a 5 cOuRsE FEAsT designed to match the selected beers with a beer for each of the 5 courses (half pint / 330ml bottle) all included in the £35 per person price for the evening. * Normal price £50 pp at The Old Brewery.

Early booking advised – limited to 34 people

The Queens Arms, corton Denham sherborne, somerset, DT9 4LR Email: relax@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com Tel: 01963 220317

The

Wyndham Arms

KinGSBurY ePiSCOPi nr. MartOCK SOMerSet ta12 6at

Open all day - every day excellent homecooked food served every lunchtime and evening

Monday to Thursday: 12noon – 2pm and 7pm – 9pm Friday: 12noon – 2pm and 6.30pm – 9.30pm Saturday: 12noon – 3pm and 6.30pm – 9.30pm Sunday: 12noon – 3pm and 7pm – 9pm

superb choice of wines ... by the glass or by the bottle

Why not join us for Valentine’s day? ❤ FuLL menu AVAiLABLe ❤ lin, Rob and staff wish all their customers a happy and prosperous 2013

5 hygiene rating

cAmrA Good Beer And cider Guide 2013

Tel: 01935 823239

SiBa

Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com to see full menu details 40 THE VISITOR February 2013

The

Pub Pages

veritable land-mark on the Preston Road, to fire, although the skittle alley has remained undamaged I hear (unconfirmed as yet). Hopefully the whole pub will be restored to its former glory. This was our home alley for many years, when I played with an all-B.T. team on the Monday night Yeovil Skittle League as well as with the nowdefunct team ‘Harlequins’ on a Friday night Sports League.

Frank Wakeling was the Landlord at that time, and I can honestly say some of our most memorable games were played here, some of which were in a regional knock-out from when the GPO telephones and Postal services had a sports club, which was formerly part of the Civil Service Recreational Society. In fact one year we got to the final and lost against Bristol postmen at the Civil Service Club in Exeter. Recently I was driving through the home of The Visitor – Castle Cary – and I was sorry to see ‘The Swan’ still closed and nature beginning to do its job.

How long has that been closed now I wonder? Can we report any good news about long-closed pubs in your area – I’d like to know.

Another passion of mine is railways, and I like to think of myself as a life-long student of railways and their operation. The Michael Portillo series on teatime telly has made interesting and educational viewing for many people, and I have noticed as I

am sure many others have, that he does seem to end up in quite a few pubs. He has also paid more than an occasional visit to a brewery, and seems keen on sampling the beers too. Most recently he was travelling the Home Counties and paid a visit to an imposing house that goes under the name of ‘Goddards’ which was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, best known for his work on the Cenotaph. This was mentioned in these very columns in August 2011, mainly because I had discovered that the house had its very own skittle alley. So at least one establishment in Surrey has one; are there any more I wonder? Interestingly ‘Goddards’ was built ‘as a Home of Rest to which ladies of small means might repair for holiday' and that Sir Edwin did partake in the occasional game, of that we know. Well lucky old Michael was allowed to deliver a ball as well; something that it appears I will never be allowed to do, as my reader with a long memory may recall that my request to visit and play, for research purposes, was

Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...

rOYal OaK Over Stratton, South Petherton Tel: 01460 240906

A Charming Country Inn

offering delicious home-cooked food ... lunchtime Special 2 courses £8.50 Tuesday to Saturday WEdNESdAy & thurSdAy SPECIAl

Surf, turf, Swine & Wine Night

TWO rump Steaks, or TWO Beer Battered haddock or TWO gammon Steaks, or Any TwO with a carafe of Wine ... £19.95 per couple Booking Advised (not available 14th February)

Valentine’s Menu

available Thursday 14th, Friday 15th and Saturday 16th February - EvEnings

See website for full menu details: www.the-royal-oak.net ♥ Early Booking Advised ♥

✽ traditional Sunday roast ✽

14th

plus Full Menu available

14th

Early Bookings Advised

Friday 8th February

TiM piTMan’S Music Show starts 9pm

Monday 11th February

Fun Quiz: Teams of 4 – 6 starts 8.15pm £5 Per Team including a Bowl of Chips!

February & MarcH ...

Accommodation Savings - See Website

The MuDDleD

Man

lower Street, West chinnock

A charming village inn serving delicious home cooked food in a traditional atmosphere Food served every Lunchtime & evening FriDaY is FreSh FiSh DaY  With Delicious homemade Beer Batter

 SunDaY lunch - choice of roasts - £7.95 Booking Advised 

Steak SpeCial From Sunday to Thursday - TWO 8oz. rump Steak Meals for £14

BeeR GaRDen

opens a door or two. However, I shan’t sign him on for our team; he didn’t even get near the front pin!

Treat your loved one ...

ValenTine SpecialS

Your hosts, Mick, Jean and garry welcome you to



met with a (if I may quote my original piece) ‘not a cat’s chance pal’ reply! Clearly being a former M.P. and now television presenter

accOMMODaTiOn nOW aVailaBle Homemade Daily Specials • real ale • Skittle alley

tel: 01935 881235

The

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane Norton Sub Hamdon

Mark, Helen and staff welcome you to ‘The Nelson’

good Food - good BEEr - grEAt AtMoSPhErE Saturday 2 nd February - Karaoke ‘Onesie’/ Pyjama Charity Night in aid of St. Margaret’s Hospice

❤ Valentine’s Menu - 3 Course £25 pp ❤ Available Thursday 14 th, Friday 15 th and Saturday 16 th February Saturday 16 th February - Valentine’s Special Menu Plus Entertainment with Dave Largie Monday to Friday - Two Course Lunch £8 Tuesday & Wednesday - Steak Night - Two Steaks ... and a Bottle of Wine £25 CourtyArd H BEEr gArdEN At rEAr AMPlE PArkINg oPEN All dAy FrIdAy, SAturdAy & SuNdAy

Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.biz

THE VISITOR February 2013 41

They Say That Shirley Bassey should be on her toes with the recent tribute at Chiselborough’s Christmas Cracker - more aptly named Burley Chassis courtesy of Merv Langdon, Tony Perry and Eddie Venn who incidentally looked very good in red lippy.

That when she’s feeling a little peckish, Mrs Lin Penn of Shepton Mallet definitely likes the ‘bear’ essentials.

That prior to Christmas, rumour has it that Kingsbury Episcopi landlord Mr. Rob Rigby was, allegedly, in training for the next series of Dancing on Ice. That according to Chris Sparks of East Stoke, his wife Margaret spends so much time in Marks & Spencer, he thinks M & S should stand for Margaret Sparks.

That John Loasby of Wincanton ‘swears’ he will get a carbon bike before spring - to aid training.

That judging by the trail of red feathers, Annie ‘Bird’ Lewis of South Petherton is starting to moult.

That a certain Chiselborough gentleman, having finally reached ‘grown-up’ status, wonders if a move would be prudent, as a bus pass in Chiselborough is certainly surplus to requirements.

That after the recent news reports on television and radio, we now know what’s in hamburgers - Shergar bum.

That ‘pop lovers’ will be pleased to know that the regular Pop Quiz will be back next month.

That contributions to this column are always welcome by post, fax, telephone, or email but anonymous contributions will not be published.

Don’t Forget ... ✿ MOtHerinG SunDaY ✿ 10th March ✿ eaSter ✿ Good Friday 29th March easter Sunday 31st March

BooK youR ADvERTISInG in The Visitor today! march issue PuBLiSHeD Thursday 28th February DeaDLine Monday 18th February Tel: 01963 351256

email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk 42 THE VISITOR February 2013

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

168 hendford hill yEoVIl “I don't understand Why it is you say you're leaving then you turn around you won't settle down you've got both feet off the ground” FirSt PerSOn to tell me the above song will get a free drink. Last month Jo Fuller was the first to tell me that it was ‘last christmas’ by Wham!

Brrr, what’s all this snow? Don’t like this, not good for business, not good for anything really.

Had a bit of a mixed month here at the top of the hill. after a fantastic December and a very special party on new Year’s eve, we sadly lost two really good people in the space of a few days. ian Baker was a customer from the first day i took the pub and was a loyal patron until sadly he became too ill to visit us anymore.

He passed away on the 3rd of January, two days after his 72nd birthday. He was a one off and he will be missed by us all in The Quick. the very next day one of my favourite ladies also succumbed to the same cruel illness. carol Ford used to come in with her husband Tony and family for Sunday lunch. When Carol was well she was as bright as a button, and i know that she used every last inch of her strength to fight her way back to health. But in the end it was too much for even this brave lady. i will miss her.

On a different note adrian cooper and his wife Karen have just returned from a 3 month trip in their camper van across europe. On their travels adrian has told us that he has developed a good nose for a variety of red wines - from the Clarets of Bordeaux to the Riojas of Madrid. Sadly when asked what he would like from The Quicksilver Wine list he promptly replied that he would like “a nice glass of that Chardonnay” . this month Paul Smith and rob Mapstone celebrated being 50 years young with a joint party. Some great music, good grub, loads of chums and a few beers made for a cracker. Well done you two - keep on rockin!!!

Sad news about The Bell on Preston road but i am sure that it will come back bigger and better! Sadder news about The Picketty witch. Tescos have been one of the main reasons pubs are failing. now they are taking the P**$ by taking over local pubs with nice big car parks and making them into mini supermarkets. there will only be about five pubs left in Yeovil soon. But its OK, there will be four Tesco outlets. Madness!

On the 1st of February we have Karaoke in the bar and a special elViS Tribute by the fabulous Barry Paull. tickets are £5 and the proceeds go to The Hospice. On the 8th we have Black Magic Woman live in the bar, and on the 15th we have Blue Mile. On the 22nd we have Seedy cases, and a little advance warning that we have a Black Sabbath Tribute Show in the function room on the 2nd of March. and finally, i was having dinner with my girlfriend and she said to me, “How many potatoes would you like Pete?”. i said “Ooh, i’ll just have one please”.

She said “it’s OK, you don’t have to be polite”. “alright” i said “i’ll just have one then, you stupid cow”.  TOOT TOOT!!!

BookIngS

 01935 424721

The

Pub Pages

ARoUnd ThE

h o U S E S In SOUTH CADBURY ... The Camelot Inn has now re-opened ... lovers of authentic Indian cuisine are in for a treat at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague ... seasonal produce includes dry aged Dexter Beef from Redlynch at Truffles in Bruton ... free bowl of chips for

quiz teams at The Natterjack Inn, Evercreech Junction, a fun night for all ... and delicious wedding menus at The Best Western Swan Hotel in Wells.

Winding on to Wincanton where The Red Lion has reopened as a dedicated sports pub with big screens to enjoy your favourite events ... live music at The Millers Inn call for details ... interesting ‘sharing’ menu for Valentines at The Old Inn, Holton ... don’t forget to sponsor the Mayor to climb up Snowdon for charity - sponsorship forms at The Dolphin Inn, Peacemarsh ... The Shed has opened up in Gillingham ... remember you can spend a romantic night at The Walnut Tree in Mere, after your Valentines supper ... and rumour has it that Denzil Holicks bought two rounds in The Swan at Stalbridge recently, then proceeded to drink them out of Jack Daniels.

Bicycling on to Bradford Abbas

Maggie and Mike welcome you to ...

The Dolphin Inn Peacemarsh Gillingham • SP8 4HB

BeaT THe WInTer BlueS with our £5 Menu lunches – monday to saturday • evenings – monday to Thursday Valentines Fun Quiz night ❤ Tickets £3 To include supper • 9pm start • Full menu also available Play Your Cards right The 1st and 3rd Friday of the month • 9pm start • £1 a go* Jigsaw Jackpot The 2nd and 4th Friday of the month • 9pm start • £1 a go* Quiz night • every Thursday • 8pm start Monthly Charity Quiz night • 1st sunday of each month • 8pm start

Tel: 01747 822758

* Partly donated to charity

The Queens Arms Corton Denham, Sherborne, Somerset, DT9 4LR ★ AA Rosette Restaurant ★

Join us for a very special ...

VALENTINE’s DINNER Thursday 14 th February A mouth watering

4 course Dinner especially prepared by our Award Winning Chef accompanied by a glass of Rosé Champagne

£32.50 pp Tel: 01963 220317

Email: relax@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com

GARDENING

The

Pub Pages

where you are invited to take part in a Jamming Session at The Rose & Crown where Mary is putting the final touches to her Valentines menu ... at The Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil, Black Sabbath tribute are to perform in March ... The Picketty Witch is to be turned into a Tesco ... best wishes to all at The Bell Inn after their recent fire ... the staff party night at The Lord Nelson in norton Sub Hamdon was a big success photos and further gen awaited ... it is hoped that The Cat Head, Chiselborough is shortly to reopen ... always a good pint at The Muddled Man West Chinnock ... rugby lovers should visit Dinnington Docks to enjoy the 6 nations Rugby live on TV, plus homecooked pies ... the newly installed fire was very welcome at The Royal Oak Over Stratton during the recent snap of cold weather ... there were green faces at The Brewers, South Petherton over the new Year thanks to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory ... always a good choice of wines at The Wyndham Arms Kingsbury Episcopi ... and new award winning chef for The Orangery Brasserie at Ash House Hotel in Ash where you can enjoy a wine and food pairing on the 23rd February.

noW opEn

The

Red lion

3 market place WINCANTON • BA9 1LD

Dedicated Sports pub Big Screen Viewing ● Live Premiership Football every monday, saturday and sunday Night ● Horse Racing ● Formula 1 Real Ales & Quality Lagers ... at GREAT pRICES “All sports, all day every day”

 01963 33088

Book your advertising for Mothering Sunday & Easter

Tel: 01963 351256

garDening MOnThlY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park early sowing?

AS I WRITE my garden is still covered with a blanket of increasingly slushy snow. The soil underneath is saturated and will need some good drying weather to get anywhere near workable, however I am not downhearted!

‘Travel in hope’ is the motto here I think; there is no other option in life. We do not generally expect snow every year in this part of the world although it does happen from time to time and we are after all on the same latitude as Omsk, and Quebec and further north than Winnipeg and parts of Mongolia. But we are an island and the effect of the seas around us leaves us with a mostly benign but unpredictable climate. The effect of climate change is another issue and it is not easy to interpret the views of experts.

What we do know is that we should continue to expect unpredictable weather!

We all need a good summer and feel a little deprived after two rather wet ones. So, this snow-enforced break will give me the chance to plan out what to do in the garden this year. I need to improve the lawn, repair the edges with a bit of turf and re-sow

Approved contractor to dorset & Somerset C.C.

some thinner areas, turf over a part of the perennial border that has been taken over by couch grass, replant and thicken up another bit of the same border, plant evergreens along a new fence, and fix the path. The fruit and veg garden needs to be a lot more productive this year, but I was probably too ambitious last year and made life too difficult from the start. A better way is to decide the things you really like to eat and that are manageable.

This might mean growing a few less spuds but more salads and green leaved vegetables such as spinach. Food prices are unlikely to get any cheaper and we all like to know what we are eating and where it comes from. I’m not suggesting we should try to be self-sufficient, that is truly far too ambitious, but to grow at the very least, a few things that we like to eat is an attainable target and well worthwhile.

So, it’s hard to do much of practical use in the garden for the moment but I’d still like to get something growing! My poor old greenhouse really needs replacing with something more energy efficient. I might make that my project for the year.

QUAlIFIEd ARBoRIST

All ASPECTS oF TREE CARE And dAngERoUS TREE REmoVAl

TREE PlAnTIng

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

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

February Promotion the popular ATCO GT30M Ride-On Mower Small enough to go through a 36-inch gate ... yet large enough to maintain a good sized lawn ■ Cutting Width 30-inches ■ Twin Blade ■ Direct Collect from

£1799

Including ...

FREE Tow Hitch FREE Front Bumper FREE Mulching Kit

inc. VAT

worth £200

LEE HOLMES inDepenDent GaRDen MaCHineRy SpeCialiSt 15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, Somerton • Tel: 01458 274261 www.independentgardenmachinery.co.uk

THE VISITOR February 2013 43

GARDENING Plant of the Month

Camellias are one of the best garden plants to use for adding a real splash of colour in the late winter and early spring. They are a wonderful plant to grow in the garden, or as a specimen in a container.

They grow particularly well in pots and tubs provided they are sited out of the early morning sun in frosty weather. Camellias prefer acid soil, so use ericaceous compost if growing in a container.

In subsequent years after planting, the compost will need to be topped up and a slow release fertiliser added. The ericaceous feeds are purpose made and ideal but if you’ve got rose fertiliser in

the garden shed then that will do just as well. Feeding is crucial for the following year’s flowers and to make sure that the leaves do not yellow. If you water container grown plants with tap water in this part of the world, then the soil will become alkaline and show a build-up of calcium.

This stops the plant from taking up the iron it needs to stay healthy but can be balanced by treatment with sequestered iron solution. [The term ‘sequestered’ is used in many contexts but here it is taken to mean given up or surrendered. So a solution of sequestered iron gives up or releases the iron to the plant.]

Then make sure the plant gets a high-potash feed in summer but no later than the end of July; this will encourage flower buds for the next spring.

Camellias are woodland plants and do best when planted in a sheltered or shady position. They can be grown in a more exposed position if watered carefully, and they thrive in a free draining spot with plenty of humus in the surrounding soil. Mulching with leaf mould is very beneficial.

Depending on the cultivar, you can have flowering from november through to April.

They are not particularly prone to pest or disease attacks,

All types of Fencing • Gates • Trellis • Fence Panels • Tool Sheds • Summer Houses • Garages • Workhouses • Greenhouses • Field Shelters

Alan Dodge BSc

44 THE VISITOR February 2013

All Buildings are hand-made at Bourton using Scandinavian Redwood Shiplap Timber.

Bourton, Gillingham on the old A303 Nr. Zeals For Free Survey/Estimate/Brochure

Telephone 01747 840752

GARDENING although cushion scale insect can be a problem. This is best dealt with in the growing season, using a systemic insecticide such as Provado Ultimate Bug Killer.

The range of flower types and colours is vast, from light pinks to dark reds and stunning whites.

There are singles, doubles, and other flower forms available to suit your taste such as Camellia japonica, x williamsii, 'Donation', ‘Debbie' and ‘Anticipation'.

Camellias also grow well in association with other acid loving, ericaceous plants such as summer heathers, Pieris, rhododendrons and both deciduous and evergreen azaleas.

Jobs for the Month

Working on the assumption that by the time you read this the snow will have gone, the ground dried out and all will be lovely with maybe a hint of spring being

Get ready for spring ❀

book Your WintEr gardEn MachinErY sErvicE noW

Log Cutting?

gardening time is here ...

We have all the tools you need ... saw Horses from £20 electric log splitters from £199 Petrol log splitters from £699

extensive range of chainsaws Chainsaws Sharpened and Serviced

Woodburners

Seed Potatoes - wide range of varieties Onion Sets, Shallots, Garlic, asparagus Add a touch of colour with ...

Dahlias – Begonias – Lilies – Gladioli  new Season’s Seeds now in from Fothergills and sarah Raven’s seeds  Huge Selection of Wild Bird care

refurbished Woodburners For salE Woodburner Servicing and Spares

HARTS

gardEn MachinErY  01747 851021

garDen ShOP Station road Sturminster newton Tel: 01258 472788

at gE AN S r NEW F Pot o

17d Wincombe Business Park ShAFTESBURy SP7 9QJ www.benjohnsonmowers.com

Wheathill Garden Centre!

Spring Planting

Seed Potatoes Vegetable and Flower Seeds Potted Spring Bulbs Three BagS of cOMPOST - £10

This Month’s Favourites ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿

Primroses Helebores Hamamelis rhododendrons azaleas Camellias

Gifts & Cards

Tea Rooms Daily Specials Homemade Cake Light Snacks winTER wARmER soup & Roll - £3.95 SunDaY rOaST Main & Sweet - £7.95

Wheathill lane • Milborne port • Dt9 5ey tel / Fax: 01963 251500 open: 9am - 5.00pm Monday - saturday and ... 10am - 4pm sunday

THE VISITOR February 2013 45

GARDENING just around the corner! Or not! The main theme is to catch up with the winter jobs before spring does get going. General tidying up, finish winter pruning of dormant trees and shrubs, especially the fruit. I like to get the roses done as early as

is practicable avoiding pruning in frosty weather as the newly cut surfaces can be damaged by the cold. Ornamental trees often need a little surgery, young trees need shaping, and mature deciduous shrubs often need thinning out

for all your tool hire requirements including Mini digger hire and garden Machinery Higher Farm, sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • mob: 0777 163 2221

CHAINSAWS SaleS - Service - rePairS

For an excellent choice of Garden machinery including New Chainsaws, Hedgetrimmers, strimmers Ride-On mowers, Pedestrian mowers and more!  Have your Machinery Serviced for the Season

Unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave SHEpTON mALLET, BA4 4NB Tel: 01749 343881

Podimore Recycling Ltd

[about a third each year for many sorts]. It’s a good time to cut back overgrown deciduous hedges, and, of course, prune the wisteria.

Evergreens are best left until March for pruning although hardy evergreen hedges can be dealt with now. Use secateurs on large leafed plants such as laurels to avoid leaf damage.

Bulbs started to shoot through before the snow which will have protected them to a great extent.

They will have been held back by the cold but will soon recover and flower with the brighter spring days.

Seed potatoes and onion sets are now in the garden centre, so for the best selection and the sought after varieties, get there early! The grow-your-own incentives have never been stronger and we are surely due for some decent weather this year so there is no reason why any of us should be denied a decent harvest.

If you are growing vegetables from seed, it pays to cover an area of ground with black plastic to allow the ground to dry out a little and warm up - makes early seed sowing more productive.

Early sowing in seed trays, pots or modules are easier to manage and will be ahead of the outside sowings. A greenhouse is best, but a porch or window sill will make the difference. What to sow? Try Broad beans, summer and autumn cropping cabbages, celery, spinach and rocket. If you have got a greenhouse or tunnel then start a few tomatoes and cucumbers off now with a second batch in March. Onions grow well from seed and will equal the crop from sets provided they are sown early enough. Spring onions are tough customers and a few in modules now will be useful soon enough.

suppliers of Quality recycled aggregates

tOp SOil / SUB SOil Crushed Concrete All types of stone • sand • Tarmac Road Plannings and screened Top soil small Tip for Clean Building Rubble & Bricks small & Large Quantities Collected or Delivered site Clearance specialist • Tipping Facilities Tipper Lorries • 180° - 360° Excavators Fully mobile Crusher and screener Hire Barns Down • Farm Yard Demolition Yards Crushed • Stone Supplied DiGGeR anD CRUSHeR HiRe availaBle tel / Fax: 01935 849250 Mobile: 07973 844145 46 THE VISITOR February 2013

RECYCLINg FOR THE ENVIRONmENT

Suppliers of quality lawn turf Full ground preparation and laying service available Telephone Somerton 01458 272091 Mobile 07850 310998

the end bit...

Paperchase

TWO ITEMS that I hadn’t space to include in last month’s column. First, a Yeovil reader sent me a cutting from the 9th november issue of the Crewkerne Weekender, a report

by Marion Draper about a local World War II veteran who was publicising the imminent Remembrance Day and the work of the Royal British Legion, that contained no fewer than five typographical errors. I won’t catalogue them all, but the one that jarred the most was the mention of the air crew who ‘regailed their tails of exotic places’, which sounds like a somewhat painful contortion. If they had ‘regaled their tales’ it would probably have been both accurate and entertaining. As my correspondent noted, ‘I do not know how old Marion Draper is . . . but it appears that something should have been done about the English exams a long time ago’.

And second, the insoluble brainteaser in the 24th november issue of the Western Daily Press. For readers not acquainted with Codeword I should explain that it is a crossword grid in which the numbers in the squares match the letters of the alphabet, with a couple of letters being revealed to trigger the solution.

On this occasion it was revealed that 1 was the letter B and 9 was Y, so I duly filled these in and then spent ages trying to get started on identifying the others – but to no avail. In the

Solution to January

Sudoku

trEE SurgEry SPECIAlIStS Crown thinning and reduction Dead and Dangerous trees removed new trees Supplied and Planted tree Stumps removed Approved Contractor to Somerset County Council and Local Councils Phone B. P. MOnTgOMerY for a Free estimate Tel: 01963 240532 Mobile: 07970 397248 email: brutontreecare@hotmail.com

have been understandable if this had appeared in the 21st December issue, the date on which the Mayan calendar was reportedly heralding the apocalypse or some kind of world-changing event, but on 4th January it looked like plain carelessness on someone’s part, just like printing the wrong grid for Codewords.

Chronicler.

Sudoku

Classified Ads Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG 25p per word (£3 minimum) - pre-payment essential If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment



end I turned the page upside down, looked at the answers and entered them of the grid, only to find that I had produced words like ‘zcsqplg’, ‘dfddlvo’ and ‘xnsgsc’. A writer to the letters page in the 27th november issue asked plaintively ‘Could you please tell me what language Saturday’s codeword puzzle is in, please?’ and ‘Did anyone manage it this week?’. Of course not. Beneath the letter was the editorial comment: ‘Apologies to readers who attempted S a t u r d a y ’ s Codeword. We are investigating the cause of the problem to prevent any repetition.’

Readers who put their trust in astrology would have been dismayed by the predictions in the 4th January issue of the Western Daily Press.

Evidently the planetary set up was giving nothing away about romantic p r o s p e c t s , relationships at home or at work, chances of a financial boost or the need for a change of scene – or anything else for that matter, as the cutting right illustrates. It would

nAME ........................................................................................................................................................................

ADDRESS .................................................................................................................................................................

Tel: ............................................................................. Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £3

mobile Homes

MOBILE HOMES

From £1000 • Large choice of sizes

dElIVERy ARRAngEd Big Sales Site Open 7 Days • 2 miles west of Shaftesbury

Blackmore Vale Leisure Tel: 01747 851497 www.bmvcaravans.co.uk

mobile Bars / catering HARRY’s mOBILE BARs, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk BAKERs ARms mOBILE BARs - 25 years experience, all occasions. Call Lee: 07834 788073.

by

t. M.

Fill in the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers 1 to 9.

dog Holidays HOLIDAY FOR YOUR DOg. Let your dog stay with us when you are away. 24-hour attention and long walks. Fully licensed and insured. Vet approved. References available. Tel: 01963 240650.

Passport Photographs PAssPORTs - PAssPORTs PAssPORTs and I.D. Any legislative size.

Any time to suit you. Easy parking. Tel: graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

Holiday cottage

Wanted REDUNDANT mOTOR mOWERs, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

DAVE BUYs ALL TYPEs OF TOOLs, useable / collectable. sheds & workshops cleared. Tel: 01935 428975.

ALL sPORTs PROgRAmmEs and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.

CLAssICAL LPs from 1950 – 1970, also rock, jazz & singles. Whole collections sought by private collector. Ring: 07969 489259.

Guns WAnTed

By registered Firearms Dealer rifles • Shotguns air rifles • air Pistols Any Condition We collect in any area

Tel: 07970 742471

situations Vacant FREE TRAININg with TABs, Yeovil.

Employability, maths, English, CsCs, FLT, sAgE. Call 01935 411711.

T.V. rental T.V. RENTAL - long or short term, domestic & commercial, up to 50-inch plasma. H. R. Hodge. Tel: 01460 240645.

musical

2 BEDROOm Holiday Cottage, Watchet, sleeps four, dogs welcome. www.malthouse-cout-watchet.com for special discounts. Tel: 07967 157735.

mUsICAL INsTRUmENTs - brass, woodwind and strings, for sale and rental.

Tel: 07974 412269.

Bungalow For sale

storage

sOUTH PETHERTON Well situated bungalow, mid-terrace quiet location, in excellent decorative order.

Enclosed entrance lobby, entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, double bedroom, shower / wc, double glazing, gas central heating. New carpets throughout. Private courtyard with workshop. separate garage.

Easy walking distance to shops, PO, pub, bus stop etc. Would suit retired person. No forward chain. £124,500 Tel: 01935 881909.

sTORAgE for furniture in locked cubicles.

Lock-up garages to let. Tel: sparkford storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

For sale LOgs FOR sALE - seasoned, hard / soft wood, loads to suit all budgets. Tel: 07973 871708 evenings after 7pm 01935 825506.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ THE VISITOR February 2013 47

PhoNE - a - FIrM Transport & Storage The key to all your storage needs!

Fully Insured storage at Highly Competitive Rates Call us today for a quote!

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

• Open 7 Days a Week • 20 Years Established Family Business • Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service • Removals To and From Storage • Self Store with Easy Access • Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff High street, sparkford, nr. Yeovil, somerset Ba22 7qJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692

Security

Domestic Appliances

Pe

PreMier elecTricS Est. 34 yrs

COVerinG tHe SOutH LOCaLLY Kitchen appliance Sales & repairs Ø repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OaP discounts

TelePhOne: 01935 609300 / 01747 470212 / 01460 220660 / 01458 298212 For your nearest technician

Taylors Domestic

Appliances Ltd. Sales & Repairs for Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble Driers etc.

Ridge View, Penmore Road Sandford orcas dT9 4SE Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

01963 220366 Email: info@tda.uk.com Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

Maintenance and Repairs YOU CAN’T I CAN pAUL CHEDzOY property & Garden maintenance

Decorating, Gardening, Building and General D.I.Y.

 01935 472669 ... or

07884 345511

email: ucantican07@aol.com

Trading for over 5 years CuSTOMER REFEREnCES AvAilABlE

A. hamilton

sliding sash window specialist Repairs - Refurbishments - Replacements

Services good PoTAToES Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices Anchor hill Service Station WINCANTON 01963 32609

Electrical Contractors MainStOneS ElECtriCAl ContrACtorS Industrial, Commercial & Domestic Installations Station Road, Bruton national inspection Council for Somerset BA10 0Eh Electrical installation Contracting Tel: (01749) 812316 mobile: 07885 625456

Framing SceneS

artist Materials & Gallery

« Picture framing « restoration « Large selection of prints & paintings « Greeting Card Blanks high St. gillingham Tel 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

complete windows or just repairs. rotten wood replaced, new sills, re-puttying, sashes unstuck, broken hardware and sash cords replaced, draught-sealing, rattles eliminated.

Qualified to Advanced City & Guilds Level

Tel: 01935 863071 www.sashwindowtlc.co.uk

• • • • • • • • •

SeRviCeS

Exterior and interior decorating Gutters cleared and cleaned High level painting and cleaning Conservatories washed down Removal of disused sky dishes and cabling Repointing of stone and brickwork Patios cleaned Many other jobs undertaken no v.A.T. competitive rates for seniors

Contact JaMeS CaDe on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

Embroidery rAinBoW emBroidery

Logos a speciaLity All Types of Garments ... Ideal for Clubs, Schools & Businesses caLL for a quote

07773 497188

MaRCH DeaDline Monday 18th February Tel: 01963 351256

48 THE VISITOR February 2013

PhoNE - a - FIrM Cleaning

your guide to local services

Roofing

JPc cleaning Services Friendly Cleaning specialist 20 Years experience – Fully insured

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

regular Weekly & Fortnightly Home Cleans

SLATiNG & TiLiNG SpeCiALiSTS

OnE-OFF sPRing ClEAns Window Cleaning ✴ Carpet Cleaning Mobile Car Valeting

Specialists in period and listed properties

Tel: 01935 474772 or 07896 967943 www.jpccleaning.co.uk

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

26 Stembridge, nr. Kingsbury, Martock TA12 6BN Telephone: 01460 240229 • Mobile: 07917 411961

Building

Dave Hoddinott FULLY QUALIFIED BUILDER - EsTABLIsHED 1973

• Renovations & Extensions • Roofing + Carpentry • Plumbing & heating • Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling • Painting & decorating • Electrical Contracting Competitive Prices - No Job Too Big or Too Small FRienDly & ReliaBle SeRviCe

Tel: (01963) 440256

24 hour emergency call out

Dentures

DenTure rePairS While You Wait collection & Delivery Denture advice

MDs Builders

Mr. C. Dunn

registered Dental technician

01749 812585 www.dunndental.co.uk • Complete Refurbishments • Extensions • Landscaping • Painting & Decorating Tel: Gillingham 01747 822692 Mobile: 07594 524602 Email: MDSbuilders.org@gmail.com www.mdsbuilders.org “ a professional service from one who cares”

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Preservation

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • tiling • Slating GRp Roofing All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

01963 33528 / 07885 723915 Email: allancarey541@hotmail.com

Bourton roofing Co.

Oven Cleaning

 01747 840064

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Slate  tiling  Flat roofing. uPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I m AT ES

... or 07866 296453 email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk

Clock Repairs CloCk REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

Communications Westline communications

MAPLE PRESERVATION

Business telecom Specialist

• Damp Control • Timber Treatments • Dry Rot • Condensation Control • 30 Year Bonded guarantee

John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

Tel: Gillingham 01747 826960 Mobile: 07881 504426

For all your telecom needs For free, friendly and professional advice call ...

29,000 COpieS MOntHly

Shouldn’t you be advertising here?

Mister Oven

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk

Driving Tuition FASTRACKDRIVING.CO.UK pete Martin THE sPECIALIsT for ...

Intensive Courses + Off Road Facilities for under 17s

tel: 01749 860010 07962 401166

Your Advert Here ... tHiS SpaCe COStS JUSt £14.40 + vat per month tO plaCe yOUR aDveRt

tel: 01963 351256

THE VISITOR February 2013 49

MaRCH DeaDline

your guide to local services

PhoNE -aFIrM

Monday 18th February Tel: 01963 351256

Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

TV & Radio Aerials

Plastering

Fires/Chimneys

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME sTORE

Dave paRMiteR aeRialS

Multifuel stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE

TV AERIAL sERVICE sATELLITE / VIDEO sYsTEms CCTV sYsTEms - PERsONAL sERVICE

✴ chimney sweeping service ✴ Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

High street, curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

Logs

Trailer Loads ★ Free Local Delivery Bags Available for Collection

Damian Hoddinott PLuMBInG SERvICES

tel: 01963 351256

tel: 01963 441232 or Mobile: 07971 676111

Prize Crossword No. 316 Set by Frank Butler

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. the prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of The Visitor - please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

4

5

6

7

across 1.

4.

9.

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG to arrive by Monday 18th February.

3

8

10.

11.

12.

14.

18.

22.

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25.

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Dull drilling. [6] Fly around disturbed diver with burning emotion. [8] Female deer swallowed tag: Weakness of the elders. [6] Diplomatic mission with limb replacing head of country. [8] Stay back around church with sailing boats. [6] anglo-uae arrangement is pre-digital. [8] nothing at all when sweet: Lady cut up in 1867. [5,5] everyone with small heron to play briskly. [10] Father came back with quiet lift to examine. [8] Wooden villa is robust in extremes of carpet. [6] red with anger around fruit and veg man. [8] eatery with ball-pen on both sides of street. [6] after break, painting and music begins again. [8] Deride on board with rural costume of old. [6]

7.

8.

13.

15.

16.

17.

19.

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21.

What's-its-name at home, surrounded by dogs. [6] One dry mix over there! [6] teenager's a handout perfume.

[10] no longer in use, air chasm disrupted. [8] Vigorous rebuilding of 23? that's about it! [8] Parts put right in magic elixirs? [8] Countryside worker telephoned the queen. [6] Games with ship in port? no, the other way around! [6] Picture-box arrived before artist. [6]

Solution to crossword 315

Down 23

1.

2.

24

25

26

27

3.

5.

6.

50 THE VISITOR February 2013

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2

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19

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1

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Change daffy lob? it's quite poor. [5,3] On the subject of returning it with $0.01, be a bit cagey! [8] useful in dimness, yet hinge needs adjustment. [5-3] Level anaesthetic for 4,40 or 100? [4-6] Six-can practicable? [6]

tHe Winner of our Crossword 315 was Mr. J. D. Worwood of Stoke-Sub-Hamdon, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at the Lord nelson, norton-Sub-Hamdon.