The Visitor Magazine Issue 359 October 2013

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Issue 359 October 2013

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ACk In MAY in the deep south of Visitorland an event took place which must surely have delighted countless walkers, cyclists and horseriders. A further section of the north Dorset Trailway was opened from Stourpaine village to Blandford, for the most part utilising the trackbed of the former Somerset and Dorset Railway, so that a continuous route now exists from Sturminster newton to Blandford. The project was undertaken by a partnership of Dorset County Council, north Dorset District Council, local volunteers, landowners and Sustrans, the national cycle route organisation.

Sustrans and several local councils and groups along the route of the old railway have aspirations to create a continuous trail, built to bridleway standards, all the way from Bath to the south coast, of which the north Dorset Trailway will form a part. The disused railway is in many respects ideal for these off-road leisure activities, having relatively gentle gradients and being wide enough to cater for various different uses.

It will not be easy or cheap. The railway closed as long ago as 1966 and in the intervening 47 years many sections of the trackbed have been sold off and used for housing, industrial estates and road improvements or reverted to agriculture.

Many of the bridges have been removed and some of the cuttings have been used for landfill. For example, the trackbed from Sturminster up to Stalbridge has 12 different landowners and is missing the long bridge over the River Lydden and its water meadow. Over the entire route countless detours from the old railway will be needed, involving negotiations with goodness knows how many landowners, planners, highway authorities and local communities, so it is currently very much a pipedream.

But pipedreams sometimes come to fruition. On the trailway at Shillingstone a few miles south of Sturminster a group of railway enthusiasts is re-creating the old station, complete with a length of track, signal box and museum in the station building. It looks magnificent and is widely

admired by folk using the trailway. And further north, between Henstridge and Templecombe, a narrow gauge railway has been laid on the old trackbed at Yenston by the Gartell family, and steam-hauled trains can be enjoyed at their regular open days during the summer. The Gartell Light Railway is fast becoming an important family-oriented tourist attraction in this corner of South Somerset as well as being a comfortable, well-equipped venue for events, exhibitions and private functions. If the trailway ever reaches here it would not be too difficult to find room for it alongside the railway track.

Realists will know that the trailway pipedream is never going to be achieved in its entirety. But it is important that what remains of the old S&D railway route is preserved for whatever leisure or transport uses the future might bring, and for its heritage value as a slice of our local history.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines November edition published Thursday 31st october Deadline Monday 21st october 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

Note to Advertisers Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request. We cannot guarantee any specific page or position, but will always do our best to comply with clients’ wishes.

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For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.

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 facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag 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 James and our love of chocolate!

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 56 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 12 ARTS - 47 BRUTON - 47 BRUTON TREE CARE, Bruton - 5 BUSINESS - 29 CARING for the ELDERLY - 20 CROSSWORD - 58 CYCLE BABBLE - 50 FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS - 13 EDUCATION MATTERS - 49 GARDENING - 52 GILLINGHAM - 25 GMW TILING, Castle Cary - 45 HOUSE & HOME inc. Warm Homes - 39 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 50 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 29 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 37 MUSIC for the MONTH - 51 NOTICE BOARD - 12 PAPERCHASE - 55 PHONE-A-FIRM - 56 PUBS - 8 THEY SAY - 10 WINE & DINE - 38 YEOVIL INDEPENDENT TRADERS - 32 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR October 2013 3

ANDREW BARCLAY traditionaL FamiLY butchers 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 • Fax: 01963 31249

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Pigeon Rabbits HaRe

delicious home made cakes, desserts, Pies, Quiches and scotch eggs Orders Taken fOr Our MeaT aT nOrTh Cadbury Village sTOres

large selection of Local Cheeses inc. Award Winning Montgomery Mature Cheddar & Keen’s Cheddar

Wadman’s World Famous cream ... from their Jersey Herd

annamma’s cuisine ...

Homemade Authentic Southern Indian Curry Sauces made locally by a delightful Indian lady

Free range eggs

We take all major credIt and debIt cards

daiLY deLiveries to the surrounding area 4 THE VISITOR October 2013

Letters To the Editor Fracking 1

Sirs, Your Cartoonist, Geoff Thompson, is really showing his anti-fracking prejudices this month, with two cartoons neither of which show any relationship to the facts. I know they are meant to be funny, but some people may be given the wrong idea about fracking.

His front cover shows the horizontal pipework so close to the surface that the fracking cracks in the shale extend right into the water table. Had he drawn it reasonably to scale, the horizontal pipe would have been near to or below the bottom of the page. The cracks will be many thousands of feet below the water table, with layers of impermeable rock between the shale and the water-bearing strata. Provided the borehole itself is properly lined there should be no belowground leakage of either gas or chemicals into the water table.

Investigations into reports of methane in the water from private wells in the backwoods of

Pensylvania have shown that the gas was getting there long before any fracking took place, but I don’t think we are going to get gas bubbling out of our table water!

And as for the inside cartoon, these tiny so-called earthquakes occur naturally in the Uk numerous times per year and those caused by fracking have only been strong enough to rattle the teacups, not damage the houses. It is the presence of onshore wind turbines within sight of houses that is going to lower their prices, as the very timely report shortly to be published by Defra will assuredly show.

Although a professional engineer, I have no connection with the oil or gas industries, but do believe strongly that the Uk must participate in this technology to help stop the lights going out in a few years’ time.

Ewan C. Hewitt Orchard Close East Street, Martock Somerset TA12 6nF

unfortunate the drawings are based on urban myth and factoids, and dare I say, an ill informed but capable cartoonist.

I quote, in part, from a letter written to the new Civil Engineer (22-29.08.13) from Professor Robert Mair, Department of Engineering, Cambridge. ‘The Uk has been fracking and directional drilling for non-shale resources for many years; fracking itself is not new for the Uk but it is being

newly applied to shale gas. Over the last 30 years more than 2,000 onshore wells have been drilled in the Uk, around 200 of which have been fracked to enhance the recovery of oil or gas. We are not aware of groundwater contamination issues with any of these wells.’

He also chaired a report by the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society entitled ‘Shale gas extraction in the Uk: a

Fracking 2

Sir, The cartoons on the September cover and on page 3 are both well done, with fracking being an evocative and highly emotionally charged topic. It is

THE VISITOR October 2013 5

Letters To the Editor review of hydraulic fracturing’ published last year. The report concluded that the environmental, health and safety risks can be managed effectively, provided operational best practices are implemented and enforced through robust regulation. He goes on to say that in the Uk there are already highly regulated criteria relating to the importance of well integrity.

Some of the myths relating to contaminated water and fire from water taps, in the USA, have been from shallow coal mines, now closed, where methane gas does build up and may find its way to the surface water. As also rarely occurs with a few poor and improper well practices in the USA. nearly all US communities receive a royalty where the wells are producing, with no damage locally, providing the well casings are of a high standard, as is the case here in the Uk. Perhaps the Government could well do this with the towns where productive wells are bought into commission.

The importance of a national gas supply cannot be over estimated enough.

Graeme Leigh Curry Rivel

Fracking 3

Sir, I was disappointed to find one-sided propaganda on the cover and page 3 of your September edition. You offer no objective information about fracking and your allegations regarding the consequences are hotly disputed opinions not supported by facts.

To redress the balance your October edition needs cartoons about Somerset’s elderly suffering from the cold as they cannot afford heating because energy costs have soared due to the lack of cheap gas provided by fracking.

David Wilshire Bellmoor Farm Peasmarsh Ilminster Somerset TA19 0SG

Please support Yeovil Freewheelers

Sir, The Yeovil Branch of Moose International are raising money this year for Yeovil Freewheelers, who you will know operate the out of hours emergency motor cycles (Blood Bikes) in our area.

On behalf of Moose International I have entered the Great South Run in Portsmouth on October 27th to raise additional funds and would be grateful for acknowledgement of this in your next issue.

Yeovil Moose support a different charity each year and have recently supported: Children's Hospice Southwest South Petherton Hospital Help for Heroes Whizzkids

“Prayer and Healing Place” We are a team of Christians that offer: Prayer for Healing • Prayer from Addiction Feel free to come in and see us for a chat or for any other specific prayer requests.

The Women’s Institute Hall, MIsTerTon nr. Crewkerne, TA18 8LZ (opposite school) ✴ First Thursday of every month ✴

a. J. Wakely & SOnS lTd

Macmillan nurses St Margaret's Hospice Any additional support is very much appreciated. Further information can be obtained through either my website: www. justgiving.com/Geoff-Wighton or www.yeovilfreewheelers.co.uk The sites are interlinked.

Geoff Wighton Email

Gillingham Road Closures for Carnival - 5th October

Sir, Gillingham Carnival Day is Saturday 5th October, to ensure the safety of participants and spectators Dorset County Council has approved the following Road closures: Road closure times for the Gillingham Childrens Procession: High Street/Higher Station Road junction to end of Queen Street 14:50 until 16:15.

Road closure times for the evening Parade of Bands followed by the Grand Illuminated Procession: newbury Roundabout to the end of Queen Street - 18:30 to 21:30, new Road to Le neubourg Way junction with Lower Station Road - 19:00 until 20:30 and finally Bay Road to the end of Fairy Crescent - 19:30 to 22:00.

Gillingham Carnival Committee apologise for any inconvenience caused by these Road Closures.

Thanking you in anticpation of your assistance.

Tim kingsmill Chief Marshal Gillingham Carnival Committee

Mentioned in

Dispatches A Big Thank You!

Ann Brittain, Chairman of Castle Cary Museum, would like to thank everyone who attended and

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6 THE VISITOR October 2013

Local & Nationwide Deliveries

11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA

helped to make the Museum Coffee Morning held on Saturday 7th September, a most successful morning. Also special thanks go to the people of Castle Cary for their support.

Level’s Best celebrates a decade of Farmers markets

Saturday 28th September marks the 10th anniversary of the Levels’ Best Farmers Market hosted by the national Trust at Montacute House - a unique setting for this double-award winning market.

Over the decade there have been 75 markets, with over 2,000 stalls representing more than 40 farmers, growers, producers, craftsmen and women. The majority of whom are from the Somerset Level’s and Moors and the others are within a 15 mile radius of Montacute ensuring very low food miles.

A few stalls are for seasonal produce, but in the main producers such as Bower Hinton Farm Shop, attend every market.

The market has grown in popularity with between 500 and 700 regular, local customers at every market. The Hamper of fresh produce, donated by every stall in the market place at every market, is a huge attraction and delights the winner, drawn at random, at the close of each market.

Montacute offers free parking and free entry to the market which opens at 10am and closes at 2pm. Subsequent markets this year will be held on 26th October, 23rd november, 14th December.

Castle Cary’s Carnivals

Cary’s carnivals are set to go this month, with the Children’s Carnival on the afternoon of Saturday 5th October and the Illuminated Carnival on the evening of Saturday 12th October.

The Visitor understands that this year’s processions will be at least as good as last year’s, with Cary’s local Cary Comedians and Britannia floats coming out, plus much more.

The Carnival Programme will be out on sale in local shops – still, as the Carnival Society says, for ‘one measly pound’ – and as ever, they’re calling out for folk to help out as collectors and marshals. If you would like to get involved, you can find details on the Society’s web site.

But Cary’s Carnival Society President Gordon Stockman warned: ‘Following a police review of last year’s carnival – in which we came out very well, by the way - we are required THIS

Mentioned in

Dispatches year to put barriers over all the road junctions on the circuit. In addition, the top of Churchfield Drive must have complete fixed barriers to stop all traffic from going down Churchfield Drive throughout the period of road closures and until the last carnival float has left Churchfield Drive or until the end of official road closure time.’

Gordon added: ‘I am sorry for any inconvenience, but we have to do this; so if you are affected by these new closures, please plan ahead.’

You can see the road closures on the map below. And find out more details about this year’s Cary carnivals on their web site: www.castlecary-carnival.org.uk

Wildflower Meadow Recreated

TV presenter and naturalist Simon king is recreating some of the finest wildflower meadow in the county thanks to a helpinghand from Somerset Wildlife Trust.

Wildflower meadows are amongst the most threatened habitats in the Uk and Simon has joined forces with the Trust to help halt this decline. Using seed harvested from Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Chancellor’s Farm nature Reserve, on the Mendip Hills, a rich wildlife habitat is being created at Simon’s home in east Somerset.

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THE VISITOR October 2013 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches On Thursday, September 5 Simon was joined by Jake Chant from the Trust’s Mendip Living Landscape team to sow the wildflower seed which will begin to germinate in autumn and be in full bloom next summer. The seed mix includes wildflowers and grasses such as black knapweed, yellow rattle, bluebell and sweet vernal grass. These flowers and grasses will increase the biodiversity of the meadow and support a rich array of insect life – the building blocks for a strong and diverse eco-system.

Simon king, Patron of Somerset Wildlife Trust and President of The Wildlife Trusts, said: ‘In just over two years of careful grassland management, I have witnessed an astonishing change to the meadows around my home in Somerset. What was green desert now dances to the paper ballet of marbled white, skipper and blue butterflies.

With assistance and the wildflower seed donation from Somerset Wildlife Trust I am looking forward to an even greater diversity of life in our local grassland over the coming years.’

The seed mix was harvested from Chancellor’s Farm, which was crowned Somerset’s Coronation Meadow in June.

Coronation Meadows are outstanding examples of wildflower meadows that are being used as ‘source meadows’

8 THE VISITOR October 2013

to provide seed for meadow restorations. Chancellor’s Farm, is owned by the Wessex Reserves Forces and Cadet Association and is at the centre of the Mendip Hills AOnB. After 20-years of careful husbandry by Somerset Wildlife Trust the meadow is home to some 180 species of flowering plant attracting wildlife including barn owl, greater horseshoe bat, adder, spotted flycatcher, dark green fritillary and chimney sweeper moth.

Jake Chant, from Somerset Wildlife Trust, said: ‘Somerset’s wildflower meadows are not only beautiful and historic places they are also vital to the survival of a whole range of wildlife. Restoring and linking these grasslands through restoration projects to increase biodiversity will help ensure the future of some of our most treasured species such as the chalkhill blue butterfly.’

Launched by HRH The Prince of Wales in June The Coronation Meadows Partnership is made up of Plantlife, The Wildlife Trusts and the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.

Plantlife’s Dan Merrett of the Coronation Meadows Project added: ‘With the Uk having lost 97% of its wildflower meadows since the 1930s it’s great that Simon is doing his bit to help reverse the trend, and, importantly, that through the Wildlife Trust he has done this using seed from a surviving Somerset meadow to keep the local distinctiveness of the wildflower mix.’

Pupil Power tackles Food Waste Challenge

Thousands of Somerset primary pupils have the chance to prove their powers of persuasion,

inspired by a bunch of ‘burping bacteria’ turning food waste into clean, green power.

With most families recycling food waste and Somerset’s new Anaerobic Digestion (AD) facility going into full operation, the priority is to ensure no food ends up in costly and polluting landfill.

Every Somerset primary school pupil has been invited to enter a competition to design a poster that will encourage the recycling of food waste to generate clean, green energy.

As well as green prizes, the best posters will win a place in a new publicity campaign by Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) to help families raise their food waste recycling rates.

The competition is part of a colourful new educational pack helping children become experts on the ‘burping bacteria’ that will soon be turning their waste food into clean, green power.

All primary schools were sent the pack about the science at the heart of the £10 million AD facility built by recycling company Viridor near Bridgwater.

Part of the pack was produced by the duo behind the worldwide best selling Horrible Science book series, writer nick Arnold and artist Tony De Saulles.

Commissioned by Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP), the pack has been created by the green education charity, the Carymoor Environmental Trust, based near Castle Cary.

The pack and competition details have been sent to all Somerset primary schools. Details are also available at www.somersetwaste.gov.uk.

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

RECEnTLY on entering one of England’s fine public houses I was somewhat shocked to see a Christmas tree and adjacent menu and a ‘book now for your Christmas meal’ poster. So we haven’t even got to Halloween and here we are being bombarded with all … (must stop now before this turns into a rant)! nevertheless, there is a present or two I can recommend for the pub and ale fan in your life and family. Firstly, the new Good Beer Guide from our friends at CAMRA – the Campaign for Real Ale. Stacked with pubs, info on beers, breweries, what to look out for and lots of other information that I have not had time to assimilate; it can be bought from CAMRA, online, or ‘all good book shops’ no doubt. My first dive in was to check out the Yeovil pubs and to my delight my old acker Pete Lambden and his pub at the top of Hendford Hill, the uniquely named Quicksilver Mail, has made it into the book again.

Rightly so! Pete has worked extremely hard to get this pub to where it is today - not to mention it now being Yeovil’s premiere live music venue, and of course Pete is a regular advertiser in this very magazine. Also ‘in’ for the first time (ever?) is the Butcher’s Arms at the other end of Hendford and right on the edge of the town. When I worked not a million miles from here this was a regular watering hole on a Friday lunch-time, and at that time I used to park my works vehicle for our elongated stops right outside – on the yellow lines. I don’t think I’d get away with that now! knowing this establishment from early on in my drinking career, it was somewhat of a joke - reasons need not be discussed here - but it became extremely popular after extensive and tastefully done restorations. We

skittled there a few times, and this is a pub with a separate alley, where one has to dash across a yard in wet weather. I wonder if it is still like this? I must pay a visit.

Pete Lambden expressed his delight in the fact that the Butchers got into the Real Ale guide. He told me that a real ale pub crawl - of which he gets many - are even happier to come to a town where there are more good pubs and good beers available, as it then becomes a more

worthwhile visit. If you think there are any pubs worth a try, then why not join CAMRA and get your recommendations in?

This is easy to do via the website ‘What Pub’. (Check this website out regularly as it grows). As Pete also says, if one looks at the number of pubs in Bath that are listed then one can see the logic behind this. In fact there are a staggering eleven pubs listed in the latest GBG in Bath that are recommended. Here there are regular accompanied pub walks

Vinny travels to Bruton for Sunday Lunch at Truffles Restaurant & Bistro

where several are visited with a guide who gives an insight to the history of those visited, and doubtless many quality ales tried too. To return to the Butchers Arms, I recall seeing a set of huge skittles which adorned the bar, high up on a shelf. These looked like nothing I have ever seen before or since, they certainly would not have been used in a local league and were not even like the ones used in what is referred to as ‘London skittles’ (see internet for information and videos on that particular version).

We wish the Butchers Arms continuing success, and I see it is listed that they have ales from the DBC (Dorset Brewing Company), of which I have tried just the one (in Wetherspoons, Dorchester, to my surprise) and as reported in B&S soon after, I was so impressed I rang the brewery to tell them how good it was!

There are, of course, many pubs

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

within the range of The Visitor, and doubtless the landlords and landladies will be making good use of the GBG recommendation in future advertising. Inevitably, some pubs are left out that do deserve to be in the GBG; that’s just the way it is I’m afraid. The way it is compiled allows each region to put forward a limited number of pubs for each edition.

I feel that the advent of the ‘What Pub’ facility will improve the selection of houses however, and indeed the fairness of the review, for it does not need just a few active members to do all the reviewing – everyone in CAMRA can join in. Membership of CAMRA has now gone past a staggering 150,000 and as I know I have stated before, it has often been said that CAMRA is the most successful consumer group in Europe. As a carrot to join, one receives £20 worth of Wetherspoons tokens for discount on real ales to be used at both

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food And Drink Dinnington, Nr Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397

The Rose & Crown

Bradford Abbas • Tel: 01935 474506

The Mildmay Arms

Queen Camel, BA22 7NJ  01935 850456

Traditional home-cooked food and local ales Senior Citizen Lunches Wednesday and Friday – 2-courses £6.95 Friday Night is Curry Night – Curry and a drink £9 Saturday is Steak Night – 2 Steaks, 2 Desserts, 2 drinks £25 Sunday Lunch Carvery £6.50

ChrisTmas menus now available Party Menu 3-courses £14.95 Christmas Day Lunch 3-courses £ 25

Live Music ...

Saturday 28 th September: No Fixed Abode Saturday 5 th October: Real Deal Saturday 19 th October: elvis 65 Sunday 20 th October: Quiz Night in aid of Yeovil Heartbeat Backgammon: First Tuesday of Each Month  CHRistmas PaRty menu available  Tuesdays: FRee bottle of Wine with every tWo main meals ... from evening menu Wednesdays: steak or gammon, Chips, Peas, Tomatoes and Salad Garnish ... tWo meals for £19.95

b&b

Accommodation and Skittle Alley available for hire

Fiona, Duncan and Avril are now at the

Market Bar & Bistro Market Place, Somerton

Remember ... Scrumpy Duck ... Braised Ox Tail Tapas ... and more … ?

Open daily for lunch & dinner (closed Sunday evening) Monday to Friday 2 course lunch £8.95 Traditional Sunday Roast plus menu choice CHRiSTMAS MenuS now available

Tel: 01458 272468 THE VISITOR October 2013 9

They Say That when the Sunday Super Seven from kingsbury Episcopi took the West Somerset Steam Railway to Minehead for lunch recently, young Charlie Stone was surprised to find his vehicle had been issued with a parking ticket, whilst legally parked.

That Sylvie Hamblin of Yeovil and Mrs Posh of Wimborne will soon meet their Waterloo Mama Mia! Watch out!

That the next time the elderly Witch of Wookey shops at norton Sub Hamdon Spar, she may well cast an evil spell and give the warlock hot flushes!

That guests now consider parachuting in when visiting Yeovil’s Mr Ron Young of the Cadillac Ranch.

That the signs of Free Beer - are only for the short-sighted passing through Compton Dundon!

That according to Sally and Steve, the best birthday present John Clarke of Summerlands in Yeovil could have for his 65th is a Glovers win!

That Classic Evercreech Motorcyclist ‘Storming norman’ unfortunately fell off at Milborne Port on the recent Jeff Clew Run, resulting in a sore shoulder, but ended on a winners note with the Spirit of the Event award. A true motorcyclist always gets back on his machine. Heal quick ‘Dr. Foster.’

That Maggie Harris and the Western Gazette display stand ‘flew through the air with the greatest of ease’ in the Abbey Bookshop in Sherborne.

That when incapacitated, Ray Tudgay of Wincanton thought he would use his bus pass - but after a mechanical breakdown and a wrong destination, he will now probably stay put until his arm is better!

That home visits by the chiropodist are now ‘Podiatry Domiciliary Appointments’ - a sad case of foot and mouth!

That Mark of the Lord nelson norton Sub Hamdon was pleased to dye his hair pink for charity and raise £520 - but was not pleased to have a matching pink eye, courtesy of Anne and her comb!

That Andrew Holloway participant in the norton Sub Hamdon charity bike race - failed his cycling proficiency test.

That if you lose your car keys at the Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil, look for them frantically for half an hour - then just ask Steve Briggs - he will probably have them.

10 THE VISITOR October 2013

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOViL “The sound of your breathin' has made the mood i'm in all of my resistance is lying on the floor Taking me to places i've never been before” FIrst Person to tell me the above song gets a free drink. last month John Penny of Bradford Abbas correctly identified Barry McGuire and ‘Eve of Destruction’.

Weather has turned bit chilly out there ought to go into your local pub for a warm, preferably this one  .

It was nice to see Gerry Hood the other day. He took a little trip away from The Quarry at Keinton Mandeville just to see me. and while we were busy shooting the breeze he realized that he was going to be late for the over 25 club that meets most lunchtimes at his local so he had to run. don’t leave it so long till the next time gerry  . this month Rob and Mandy became Mr and Mrs Lester congratulations you two. and Andy Robinson hit the big 5Ohh !! with a splendid party here at the top of the hill.

Tony and Daphney tied the knot and became Mr & Mrs Allen - they had a cracking do here with lots of friends, some good food, and a few drinks, while they danced the night away. Well done to you both  . lots going on next month. on Friday the 4th Barry Paull will be here with his Elvis Show - always great fun. tickets are a fiver with the proceeds going into the hospice box. live in the bar on the 11th Sweet F.A. make a welcome return, and on the 18th Seedy Cases bring their own brand of rock and blues covers. now then, on saturday 26th of october THE FAT MARROW B L U E S B A N D w i l l b e celebrating 20 years of entertaining with a special anniversary party. tickets are selling fast, so get yours quick it promises to be a super night!!! just a reminder that that the Christmas Menus are available from the pub or online at www.quicksilvermail.com and finally my mum and dad bought me some roller blades from Poundland … bloody cheapskates!  TOOT TOOT!!!

BOOkiNgS

 01935 424721

The

Pub Pages

Wetherspoons and Lloyds no.1 Bar (are there any of the latter around this region though?)

Whatever one thinks of these establishments (and let’s be honest they do vary according to location) it IS a good deal and speaking for myself I have never had a less than excellent pint in one of their outlets.

So what do YOU think of Wetherspoons, or indeed have you an opinion on anything within the pub scene? Do let me know at skittlealley@hotmail.com One of the pubs that has ‘got away’ from inclusion in the GBG for next year in my humble opinion is the Mitre Inn at Sandford Orcas. Run by partners Alan and Cheryl they have recently purchased the freehold from Admiral Inns, after being hosts here for some 18 years. My congratulations to them on their leap of faith, doubtless it was not without a lot of soul-searching and bank-balance scanning! I felt Admiral were not as restrictive as some pubcos, but now look forward to an even bigger choice of ales here, and Alan has stated that he wants to put a serious bias toward the more local breweries. The Baxter crew wishes them continuing success, and we really would like to play skittles through the pub one Christmas … (Go on; next time you visit ask Alan what that means!)

On occasion I have mentioned that CAMRA do have a members investment club. Did I tell you I put my money where my mouth is and invested with them? Yes, the whole raison d’être is to support those that support real

PUBS

ale, and indeed, those that support the industry. I have noted amongst the portfolio that there are some shares of companies that are less than enthusiastic about real ales, but I get the feeling that the idea could be to go to shareholders meetings to make some noise … if you catch my drift. The latest figures we have is that the club now has more than a staggering £16,000,000 worth of shares. Yes, that’s right; sixteen million pounds. I look forward to the day when they really can make some ‘noise’ when it comes to brewery takeovers/closures etc., although the great irony is that share values tend to climb when a takeover is in the offing. If this does stimulate your interest, then one first has to join CAMRA, and a maximum of £160 per calendar month can be invested. In the long term one hopes that the return will be worthwhile, although it is extremely gratifying if we all can benefit.

More on GBG entries next month; meanwhile my other recommendation for a Christmas gift is the book ‘Played at the Pub’

by Arthur Taylor. Oh, and I do hope you are enjoying your new skittle season and gaining more successes than our team!

AROUND THE

H O U S E S In SOMERTOn ... Duncan, Avril and Fiona can be found at the reopened Market Bar and Bistro, along with their infamous Scrumpy Duck ... farewell to Gordie and Caroline at the Unicorn and welcome to new hosts ... the Cross Keys at Lydford is looking very smart since its refurbishment ... and in Podimore, the Podymore inn is now completely refurbished and re-opened, much to the locals delight.

Winding on to Wells the Best Western swan Hotel now has electricity charging facilities for cars ... at Wraxall the new look

Planning your Festive Advertising?

our priNt Dates are as foLLoWs ★ November Print: Thursday 31st October Deadline: Monday 21st October ★ December Print: Thursday 28th november Deadline: Monday 18th november ★ Christmas / New Year (January) ...

Print: Thursday 19th December Deadline: Monday 9th December earLY BooKiNG aDViseD Tel: 01963 351256 • Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

The

Pub Pages

Queens Arms is being refurbished and the bar is opening on the 27th September hosts Michael north and Emma Wilson welcome you ... at the Natterjack, Evercreech Junction we will have to wait until next year to see them on the TV ... window boxes look stunning at the Bay tree, South Cary ... truffles restaurant have just celebrated their first year of trading in Bruton, see their new website ... a very successful wine evening was recently held at the Montague inn, Shepton Montague ... Friday night is Curry Night at the Mildmay Arms, Queen Camel ... locals at the Marston inn, Marston Magna have raised nearly £2,000 for the Air Ambulance with a sponsored bike ride - well done ... and in Corton Denham the

Queens Arms has won Best Pub Catergory at the Taste of The West 2013 awards ceremony, and they would like to thank all their customers and suppliers for their continued support.

Inching on to Ilchester we find Mark Haddigan, of the Northover Manor, celebrates ‘50 not out’ this month ... in Chilthorne Domer there’s free fishing for residents at the Halfway House ... always a good pint at the Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil ... Animal Urges plus ‘Jive’ dance teaching 8pm at the Foresters Arms, Holywell ... at the Lord Nelson, norton Sub Hamdon, a very successful charity cycle ride raised around £3,000, a big thanks to the 73 contenders and also a big thanks to all the pubs at which they called on their journey ... regular John Stairns at the Muddled Man West Chinnock, has just celebrated his 95th birthday congratulations ... well done to the Brewers Arms at South Petherton on their recent accolade.

Shooting on to Shaftesbury where the window boxes at the Kings Arms make a stunning display ... enjoy a delicious morning coffee at the Phoenix, Gillingham ... Christmas menu available from the end of

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

Montague inn shepton Montague nr. Bruton tel: 01749 813213

G O O D F O O D

Relax in a convivial atmosphere and enjoy …

2 Course Lunch £10 Monday ‒ Friday

Steak Night every Monday

november through to the first weekend in January 2014 at the Walnut tree in Mere ... the New inn at Cerne Abbas has been awarded Good Pub Guide

‘Dorset Dining Pub of the Year’ ... and the Potting shed at Cudwell has been awarded Good Pub Guide ‘Wiltshire Dining Pub of the Year’.

Pub People

TWO CHEQUES were recently presented to Trish and Bernard Reed, representatives of Musgrove Leukaemia Group. £1717.50 was raised by customers of the rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas as a ‘thank you’ for the care and treatment of regular customer Mick Burchett, who was diagnosed with leukaemia in June 2012, and started his treatment in July.

Mick and Judy’s children also presented a cheque for money raised amounting to £533.50.

The

Wyndham Arms

kIngsbury ePIscoPI nr. martock somerset ta12 6at

Open all day - every day Delicious homecooked food served every lunchtime and evening  Choice of Sunday Roasts 

LiVE MuSiC Saturday 28 th September - Alex Archer guitarist / Vocalist - 9pm

 CHRiStMAS MEnuS 

Ribeye, Pork loin, or Salmon ... not bad for just a tenner!

2 course - £12.95  3 course - £15.95  4 course - £16.95

Charity Fireworks

2 course - £15.95  3 course - £18.95  4 course - £19.95

Tuesday 5 th November

newly refurbished SkittLE ALLEy and brand new POOL tABLE in smoking shelter

Bookings now being taken for ...

Christmas Parties, Christmas Day and New Year’s eve

Lunchtime Christmas Menu 2013 Dinner Christmas Menu 2013

(over 18s only)

CAMRA GOOD BEER GuiDE 2014

For Full DetAils AnD Bookings

Tel: 01935 823239

tel: 01749 813213

Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com to see full menu details THE VISITOR October 2013 11

Antiques & Collecting New Prestige Antiques & Fine Art Fair for Bath

Historic paintings of Bath including a view of Bathwick Hill from around 1900 and another of Bath Abbey, circa 1870, will be among the many rare and desirable exhibits going on sale at a major new event, The Pavilions of Bath Antiques & Fine Art Fair, north Parade Road, Bath from 11th - 13th October 2013.

Painted in watercolours by Walter Rossiter (1871-1948), the view of Bathwick Hill depicts the quiet, pre-automobile period with a cart in the middle of the road, a lady wearing a bonnet walking by and a distant view of Bath Abbey spire. Born in Bath, artist Walter Rossiter studied in Paris and Rouen and took part in

CASTLE CARY

Castle Cary Carnivals 2013 Children’s Carnival Saturday 5th October (afternoon). illuminated Carnival Saturday 12th October (evening).

EAST CHINNOCK

Painted in watercolours by Walter Rossiter the view of Bathwick Hill.

exhibitions at the Walker Gallery in Liverpool, the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours, The

‘Terry’ Wren at the newly opened Vintage Country Interiors and Clothing Store on the Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton. You are invited to the official Launch with refreshments on Friday 18th October from 4pm until 8pm. All welcome.

nOW OPen CabineTs / sPaCe aVailable Contact Terry on: 07779 594009

Vintage Country Interiors And Clothing Store Individual & Creative Ideas for your Home and Garden: including ...

French Antique Furniture vintage Textiles and Clothing ... and oh, so much more!

1 Canvin Court, Somerton Business Park SoMertoN, tA11 6SB

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 12 THE VISITOR October 2013

October Notice Board

Pastel Society, the Paris Salon and the Royal Academy. The painting will be on sale from newman Fine Art in Gloucestershire and is priced at £595. newman Fine Art are also showing a painting by Myles Birkett Foster (1825-1899) showing the Bath Abbey from the River Avon, again in watercolour, and priced at £2,950.

Over 40 exhibitors will be on display to include fine Georgian and Victorian furniture; Objets d’art; Russian and European silver and jewellery; Decorative Arts; Sculptures; Ceramics and Prints. The Bath Pavilion is located within a few minutes walking distance from the main shopping areas of Bath and is surrounded by a pay-and-display carpark and close to others.

Refreshments will be available.

Admission to the fair will be £5.00 and the open hours will be 11am5pm daily.

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

Phone Jenny Martin Castle Cary

01963 350733

Beaminster Antiques, Vintage & Collectables Fair saturday 5th October Public Hall Beaminster Dorset

9.30am – 4.00pm

✱ nexT fair ✱ saturday 16th november Bookings & Enquiries Meadow Fairs 01297 24446

‘500 Years in the Music Business’ with Frances Eustace.

A light-hearted music evening 19th October, 7.30pm, at St. Mary’s, East Chinnock.

MARTOCK

dart valley stompers, straight from Bude Festival and touring Spain will play fabulous 1930/40s new York melodies for The Guardians of Martock Church, 7.30pm Thursday 17th October.

Tickets £7 on door or £6 from 01935 822706.

OVER STRATTON

Over Stratton Folk dance Club, always live music and dance.

Autumn session started Wednesday 4th September, everyone welcome. www.over strattonfolkdanceclub.co.uk

SHERBORNE

Paddy Ashdown ‘A Brilliant Little Operation’ - a talk, slides, Q&As and book signing at The Gryphon School, Sherborne Thursday 3rd October 6 for 6.30pm. Tickets £12.50 from 01963 251255 or Sherborne TIC 01935 815341.

STALBRIDGE

Retired or Semi-Retired? A selfhelp organisation providing educational, creative and leisure activities, stalbridge & templecombe U3A inaugural Meeting, Tuesday 1st October 2013 at 2.30pm in Stalbridge Library. Come along or ring 01963 370958.

ADVERTISE YOUR NOVEMBER EVENT HERE!

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 - send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid, maximum 20 words. Extra words 30p each. Deadline for november issue, Monday 21st October.

Mark & isabel welcome you to the ...

Crown & Victoria Farm Street TinTinHull nr. yeovil Ba22 8PZ

The Visitor Guide to your local ...

 CHRiSTMaS day Menu 2013  £ 75 per person ★ £ 37.50 for children under 12 years old This menu is only available to parties who have pre-booked and pre-ordered STaRTeRS Butternut squash and red pepper soup with parmesan croutons and a crusty bread roll Pan fried scallops with caper, raisin and olive vinaigrette Coarse chicken liver pate with spicy gooseberry chutney and sour dough toast Smoked duck breast salad with pomegranate vinaigrette MainS Roast turkey with sage and onion stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables and turkey gravy Pan roasted Creedy Carver duck breast with ham and leek potato cake, mulled wine and cranberry sauce and seasonal vegetables Roasted fore rib of beef with red wine sauce, yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables Roasted turbot viennoise with grain mustard sabayon and celeriac gratin dauphinoise potatoes served with seasonal vegetables Caramelised shallot and tomato tart tatin with walnut pesto and pomme puree served with seasonal vegetables SWeeTS Homemade Christmas pudding with dark rum sauce and brandy butter Caramelised pears baked in a thin brioche crust with pistachio ice cream Passion fruit parfait with mango Sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream a selection of local cheeses with “Fudges of Stalbridge” biscuits & quince jelly

 CHRiSTMaS PaRTy Menu 2013  £ 22.95 per person for 3 courses ★ £ 19.95 per person for 2 courses This menu is only available to parties who have pre-booked and pre-ordered STaRTeRS Cream of cauliflower soup with truffle oil and croutons Chicken liver pate with toasted sour dough bread and spicy tomato chutney Baked Camembert with cranberry and cinnamon bread and caramelised onion marmalade Smoked salmon with avocado and horseradish mousse salad MainS Roast Golden breasted turkey with lemon and thyme stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, gravy, port and cranberry sauce and fresh vegetables Honey glazed ham with parsley sauce, buttered new potatoes and creamed cabbage with thyme Pan fried line caught sea bass with celeriac and potato gratin, lemongrass veloute, kumquat marmalade and fresh vegetables Roasted winter squash and red pepper risotto with walnut pesto SWeeTS Homemade Christmas pudding with dark rum sauce and brandy butter Sticky toffee and ginger pudding with toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream Roasted nectarines with amaretti cream and pine nut brittle a selection of Somerset cheeses with “Fudges of Stalbridge” biscuits and pear and saffron chutney (£ 2.50 surcharge) Where possible our food is locally sourced and free range / organic. it is freshly prepared and made here at The Crown & Victoria inn. if you have any specific dietary needs please let us know.

AA Rosette Award For Culinary Excellence 2009 / 2010

Real lOG FiRe • BeauTiFul GaRdenS • Real aleS aMPle PaRkinG • enSuiTe aCCOMMOdaTiOn

Bookings Tel: 01935 823341 Fax: 01935 825786 • email: info@thecrownandvictoria.co.uk www.thecrownandvictoria.co.uk

your hosts, mick, jean and garry welcome you to

The MUDDLED MAN Lower Street, West Chinnock Tel: 01935 881235

Pre-Christmas Dinners Group Dinner Bookings 2 courses + coffee - £16 * 3 courses + coffee - £18

Curry Buffet - Saturday 21st December Christmas Day Dinner

drink on arrival, 7 course meal, Half bottle of Wine - £60 Bookings Essential

Boxing Day Buffet - £15 Book early for Christmas Day & Boxing Day - and rECEivE A DiSCounT Function Room available for your corporate presentations / business meetings - call to book daIly sPecIals • real ales • skIttle alley • beer gardens • accommodatIon

Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...

ROYAL OAK

Over Stratton SOUTH PETHERTON A Charming Country Inn ... where dining out won’t break the bank



CHRISTMAS FAYRE 

Sweet Potato & Red Pepper Soup finished with herb croutons Crispy Bacon and wild mushroom salad Chicken Liver, Red Wine & Garlic Pate served with melba toast Deep Fried Brie & Cranberry Sauce served with water biscuits * * * * * * * * * Traditional Roast Turkey served with bacon, chipolata & stuffing Herb Crusted Roast Salmon finished with a tomato and sweet pepper sauce Venison, Juniper and Cranberry Casserole Roasted Winter Vegetable En Croute olive mash, mushroom gravy All served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes

* * * * * * * * * Christmas Pudding and brandy sauce Apple and Mincemeat Crumble served with custard Vanilla & Nutmeg Crème Brûlée Mint Chocolate Cheesecake served with cream * * * * * * * * * 2 courses £14.50 • 3 courses £17.95 • Filter coffee £1.60 Available Tuesday 3rd December – Saturday 21st December

For enquiries please phone 01460 240906

THE VISITOR October 2013 13

The

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane Norton Sub Hamdon

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

gOOd fOOd - gOOd beer - greaT aTMOsPhere

Christmas Menu STARTERS

The Visitor Guide to your local ...

Pulled pork terrine with roasted red peppers, spiced pears and rosemary focaccia Sweet potato and roast garlic soup with Parmesan shavings and mini soda bread loaf Cajun spiced crab cakes served with citrus salad with a lime and ginger dressing Roast fennel filled with goats cheese garlic & sorrel with pomegranate syrup

MAINS

The Halfway House Inn

Country Lodge

CHILTHORNE DOMER nr. YEOVIL

Tel: 01935 840350 • Fax: 01935 849006 • www.halfwayhotelyeovil.com

Christmas Party Menu 2 course £14.95 • 3 course £19.95  Bookings taken for Christmas Day Lunch 

Sunday Carvery £7.95 Lakes & Gardens: FrEE fishing for residents Why not stay over? In one of our 20 Ensuite Rooms real ales • FunctIon room • lake & garden • Proprietor: Paul t. rowsell FbII

14 THE VISITOR October 2013

Roast turkey served with roast potatoes sausage wrapped in bacon, chestnut and sage stuffing gravy and cranberry sauce Cod loin wrapped in parma ham with a mussel and caper broth served with salad and new potatoes Spinach blue cheese and mushroom filo parcel served with sweetened apricot and almond purée served with salad and new potatoes Chicken supreme with olive and sundried tomato tapenade with roasted red pepper sauce with vegetables and dauphinoise potatoes Venison pie - venison braised in juniper, red wine and smoked bacon served with vegetables and dauphinoise potatoes

DESSERTS Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Rich chocolate torte with warm spiced oranges and vanilla ice cream Trio of brûlée - lemon curd brûlée vanilla brûlée and Baileys brûlée with cinnamon biscuit Poached pear with gorgonzola cheese water biscuits and a glass of port All AvAilAble gluTeN free

£22 for Three Courses • £17 for Two Courses Sunday 6th October: QuIz NIgHT Tuesday 8th October: FILM NIgHT – Life of Pi Saturday 12th October: ‘ TONED F’ Saturday 26th October: TAMMY LLOYD (local singer) COurTyard H beer garden aT rear aMPle Parking OPen all day friday, saTurday & sunday

saturday 2nd november haMdOn ha-ha Comedy evening

Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.biz

STARTERS

roast Tomato soup with melting mozzarella salt Cod brandade with toast Pork & Cognac Pate with apple & cider chutney beetroot, smoked salmon & Horseradish Tart roasted Fig & gorgonzola salad with balsamic dressing

MAIN COURSE

with accommodation

Traditional roast Turkey with all the trimmings Pan Fried sea Trout with Horseradish cream & crushed new Potatoes braised shin of beef with champ mash, cabbage with bacon & stout gravy squash, Feta & Pinenut Filo Pie with roast Potatoes & redcurrant jus duck Leg Cassoulet with Warm crusty bread

The Visitor Guide to your local ...

PUDDINGS

the natterjack inn nr. evercreech Junction evercreech somerset ba4 6na

Figgy Pudding with custard english raspberry Trifle Cranberry & Clementine Crumble with cointreau Icecream Warm Chocolate Fudgecake with clotted cream Icecream selection of Local Cheeses – £2 supplement Coffee & Petit Fours Our Christmas Menu is available from 1st to 24th December 2013 3 Course Menu £23 ✴ 2 Course Menu £18 – available lunchtimes only booking and Pre-ordering are required for this menu along with a deposit of £5 per person

Email: natterjack@btconnect.com Website: thenatterjackinn.co.uk

The White

 5 Course CHrIsTMAs dAy LunCH £55 

QUIZ – Monday 14th October

lion inn

Bar – Restaurant – Accommodation

Christmas Menu 21st November to 24th December the White Lion Smoked Haddock Fish Cake, Chive Dressing roasted Parsnip and Honey Soup (V) roast Chicken, Mushroom and tarragon terrine, onion Marmalade Baked Stuffed Portobello Mushroom (V) Classic Prawn Cocktail turkey with all the trimmings Veal, Cranberry and rosemary Casserole, roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables Poached Scottish Salmon, Crushed New Potatoes, Caramelised Chicory, Salsa Verdi Slow roasted Pork Belly, roast Potatoes, Mulled Cider reduction Courgette, Leek and Saffron risotto, Basil oil (V) Christmas Pudding with Brandy Cream Forest Fruit trifle Sticky toffee Pudding, toffee Sauce, Vanilla Ice Cream Festive Praline Parfait, Brandy Chocolate Mousse Cheese Board

2 Courses £18 ★ 3 Courses £22

High street, Bourton, Dorset, sP8 5At tel: 01747 840866 email: relax@whitelionbourton.co.uk • www.whitelionbourton.co.uk

The

Lime Tree at Thornford

Chicken liver & brandy pate Sundried tomato & basil soup Stilton stuffed mushrooms Hazelnut butter scallops. ******* Roast turkey & all the trimmings Beef, ale & chestnut casserole & leek colcannon Herb crusted cod fillets, basil sauce Spinach, mushroom & squash lasagne ******* Christmas pudding Apple & cinnamon crunch Chocolate St Honore Cheese & biscuits Two courses £15.95 Three courses £19.95

01935 872294

www.thelimetreethornford.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2013 15

The

Stag’s Head Inn Yarlington, nr. Wincanton Somerset, BA9 8DG tel: 01963 440393 SomerSet’S HiDDen Gem ...

The Visitor Guide to your local ...

in a truly picture postcard setting you will find this charming 1850 traditional inn with its log fires, friendly atmosphere and good service. all meals are prepared by our Award Winning Chef Paul Tapping.

Proprietors Paul & dawn invite customers old & new to the warmest of welcomes.

Christmas Menu 2013 sTArTers (V) goats cheese, quince and pear crostini served on a bed of rocket In house hickory smoked duck salad with winter berry coulis shell on king prawns in a garlic, lime, tabasco and sun-blushed tomato butter (V) roasted pepper and tomato soup garnished with a swirl of fresh cream and croutons smoked salmon and horseradish timbale accompanied by wholemeal toast and salad *******************

The

orANgerY BrAsserie at Ash

House Hotel 41 Main street, Ash, Martock, tA12 6PB

Delicious food served in a relaxed atmosphere overlooking our mature gardens ...

MAIns venison burger with a hint of juniper served on toasted ciabatta with homemade festive ketchup sea bass topped with special caramelized onion butter on a bed of samphire Five spiced cooked belly pork on a crispy sage and onion potato cake with red onion gravy braised lamb shank in a rosemary and redcurrant jus

open daily for lunch and dinner

roast breast of turkey served with cranberry stuffing and pig in blanket

Christmas group menus now available Parties of up to 70 catered for For further details & bookings telephone - 01935 822036 or visit - theorangerybrasserie.co.uk

8oz sirloin served with tomato, mushroom and peas (£2 surcharge) (V) gourmet nut roast with a mushroom and red wine gravy Main courses are served with vegetables and roast potatoes, unless stated otherwise

GOOD WitH kniVES? DREADinG CARVinG tHE tuRkEy?

Mulled wine fruit terrine with clotted cream

Then come to the ...

belgian chocolate cheesecake

Half Moon Inn Horsington ... to get some practice in!

Available from 3rd December to 23rd December (excluding sundays & mondays) a carve yourself locally sourced christmas roast and a whole homemade flaming christmas Pudding! groups of up to six – a choice of turkey or beef. larger bookings can choose turkey, beef, or both.

Still worried about carving? then the landlord only charges a pint to do it for you! adults £12.95 ★ children £6.95

01963 370140 halfmoon@horsington.co.uk 16 THE VISITOR October 2013

*******************

desserTs

(V) ginger shortbread blackberry stack layered with chantilly cream White chocolate panacotta marbled with blackcurrant (V) Christmas pudding served with brandy cream (V) Cheeseboard with crackers and grapes — Complementary coffee and mints to follow —

Two courses £15.95 ✴ Three courses £22.95 *******************

BookinGS noW BeinG tAken For neW YeAr’S eve!

THE BEAR INN Market Place • Wincanton •  01963 32581

We can offer a Complete Festive Package for parties of 2 - 60 ... including eNTerTAiNmeNT Our Pre-Christmas Party Menu is now available for your Works christmas meal, buffet, karaoke or skittles in the sweetman Hall. smaller groups of family and friends in the restaurant.

The Visitor Guide to your local ...

Christmas Menu Homemade Vegetable Soup • Chicken Liver & Brandy Pate ********

Fresh Local Roast Turkey with chestnut stuffing, sausage & bacon roll roast Potatoes and seasonal Vegetables ********

Traditional Christmas Pudding with brandy sauce • Ice Cream • Coffee & Mints ********

£10.95 vegetarian options and Alternative Christmas Menu available on request

H AVAILABLE 1st – 23rd DECEMBER INCLUSIVE H

chRistMAs At ...

leigh Common, Wincanton, somerset, ba9 8lD Festive menu 2013 • 2 Course £16.95 • 3 Course £19.95

CHUNkY VEgETABLE SOUP Homemade soup & warm Crusty Bread BREADED CAMEMBERT Deep-fried Camembert Rounds Served with a cranberry dip.

CLASSiC PRAWN COCkTAiL Traditional Prawn Cocktail served with brown bread.

SATAY CHiCkEN SkEWERS Chicken Skewers covered in that distinctive Satay flavour sauce. gARLiC MUSHROOMS Breaded Garlic Mushrooms served with mixed leaf salad and garlic dip.

ROAST BEEF OR TURkEY Served with Cranberry Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets & Home-made Yorkshire puddings, Roast Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables.

CHORiZO SAUSAgE POT Our own recipe Chorizo sausage, bacon & mushrooms in a rich tomato sauce, topped with cheddar and finished in the oven. Served with salad and chips.

OVEN BAkED SALMON TERRiNE Served with a parsley & white wine sauce with roast potatoes & vegetables.

HUNTERS CHiCkEN NEW YORkER Cajun seasoned chicken breast topped with bacon, BBQ sauce and grilled cheese served with home-made coleslaw and chips.

BROCCOLi & STiLTON LASAgNE Lasagne layered with broccoli & stilton and topped with cheddar, oven baked and served with salad and garlic ciabatta.

TRADiTiONAL CHRiSTMAS PUDDiNg and brandy sauce.

CHOCOLATE BAiLEYS CHEESECAkE Homemade Baileys cheesecake topped with chocolate sauce and served with whipped cream ZiNgY LEMON TARTE A Pastry Lemon Tarte served with yarde Farm vanilla ice-cream and a lemon coulis.

PROFiTEROLES Profiteroles served with whipped cream, topped with chocolate sauce and crumbled flake.

CHEESE PLATTER An individual cheese board with cheddar, stilton and a selection of crackers & butter.

Followed by Coffee & Mints senior Citizens Price: same menu 12 – 6 Monday – Saturday 2 Course £11.95 • 3 Course £13.95

will appear in our NOVEMBER ISSUE Published: thursday 31st october Deadline: monday 21st october DECEMBER ISSUE Published: thursday 28th november Deadline: monday 18th november New Year Celebrations ...

Burns Night ...

CHRISTMAS / JANUARY ISSUE Published: thursday 19th december Deadline: monday 9th december to book your advert in The Visitor

Tel: 01963 351256

Or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

NORMAL A LA CARTE MENU Free Glass of Bubbly for all Diners!!!

01747 840439

www.hunterslodgeinn.com THE VISITOR October 2013 17

Christmas at the ...

Walnut Tree Inn Mere “Good food - good wines - good times”

Whether it’s a get together with friends, a family occasion or a business party with your colleagues, we would love to look after you at the Walnut tree this Christmas.

From two to ninety two people we can provide a festive feast in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that you’re sure to enjoy.

Christmas Carvery Festive Feast Menu Available Monday 25th November - Saturday 4th January Served Wednesday - Sunday Evenings from 6pm

S TA RT E R S Chef’s pate with toasted baguette and chutney.

Homemade spiced parsnip and vegetable soup with crusty bread.

Warm baked brie with port and cranberry jam.

Prawn cocktail with seafood sauce and brown bread.

Creamy Stilton and mushroom melt.

MAIn CouRSES

From the Christmas Carvery ...

Slices of roasted turkey and glazed gammon, with festive accompaniments, and a host of freshly prepared seasonal vegetable and potato choices. roasted rump of Somerset lamb with port and redcurrant jus (£5 supp) Baked cod with fresh herb and parmesan crust.

Mature rib-eye steak served with triple cooked chips, roasted tomato and rocket salad (£5 supp).

Grilled pork loin steaks with a cider and caramelised apple sauce.

Beef bourgignon with dauphinoise potato and green vegetables.

Mediterranean vegetable Wellington.

Festive Lighter Menu

Menu Available Monday 25th November - Saturday 4th January Served Monday - Friday Lunchtimes from 12noon - 3pm and Monday & Tuesday Evenings from 6pm

S TA RT E R S Chef’s Winter vegetable soup Pate with toast and chutney Breaded whitebait with tartare sauce Prawn cocktail, seafood sauce and brown bread MAIn CouRSES roast Turkey with all the trimmings.

Pork loin with cider apple and brandy sauce Braised beef in red wine and shallot sauce Baked cod with a herb and citrus butter Vegetable Wellington

Profiteroles with a duo of warm chocolate and butterscotch sauces.

Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce.

White chocolate, Malibu and coconut mousse.

Sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and ice cream.

Brandy snap basket with lemon sorbet and Winter berries.

Bailey's Irish cream cheesecake.

Cheese and biscuits.

Coffee and mints

D E S S E RT S Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Bailey’s Irish cheesecake Profiteroles with warm chocolate and butterscotch sauces Sticky toffee pudding with ice cream Coffe and mints

2 Courses, freshly ground coffee & mints £15 3 Courses, freshly ground coffee & mints £20

2 Courses, freshly ground coffee & mints £12 3 Courses, freshly ground coffee & mints £15

D E S S E RT S

Shaftesbury Road, MERE, Wiltshire BA12 6BH  01747 861220 www.walnut-tree-inn.co.uk 18 THE VISITOR October 2013

A firm favourite for great value family dining ...

The

Walnut Tree Inn Mere “Good food - good wines - good times” NeSTlING on the outskirts of the beautiful town of Mere and under the same ownership since it opened its doors for the first time in 2006 The Walnut Tree remains a firm favourite for great value family dining in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Husband and wife team Mark and Samantha Cassidy have a simple ethos that has stood them in good stead with over 20 years experience in the catering industry.

“We like to think we do the simple things well” says Mark. “We cater for people who want good quality, traditional, well sourced and prepared food in comfortable surroundings at very reasonable prices. We have a marvellous team of enthusiastic and friendly staff who are proud of what they do, and love to see satisfied customers returning.”

With a menu packed full of traditional pub favourites, including beer battered fish and chips, fishcakes, homemade burgers, succulent steaks and curries you’ll also find the likes of roasted rump of Somerset lamb, herb crusted salmon and slow cooked pork belly with cider gravy and crackling on the special’s board.

The Walnut is well known too for it’s gluten free offering with nearly all the main courses being available as gluten free if required. Vegetarians don’t miss out either as the kitchen has a regularly changing choice of delicious vege options on the blackboards. If it’s the children who dictate where the family goes to eat then rest assured the children’s menu at The Walnut Tree has more than enough choice to cater for the most “discerning” young diner, including smaller portions of some of the adult dishes. The desserts are all homemade by Samantha and the team with firm favourites such as chocolate fudge cake, sticky toffee pudding and brandy snap baskets making regular appearances as some of the regular favourites.

One of the culinary highlights each week at The Walnut has to be the Sunday Carvery which is well known throughout the three counties as one of the best around! With a choice of four slowly roasted meats sourced locally and at least eight different potato and vegetable choices along with their giant homemade Yorkies, Sunday lunch really is a special treat that people keep coming back for week after week. Booking is essential on Sunday lunchtime but fear not as they serve all day long until 9pm! So next time you wonder where to visit for a spot of lunch, a well kept pint of ale or chilled glass of wine, a relaxing evening out, or one of the finest Sunday carveries you’re likely to encounter, you couldn’t do much better than a visit to The Walnut Tree Inn Mere.

AuTuMn SAvERS £5 oFF 2 Main Courses or Specials with this voucher Monday - Saturday * Offer ends Saturday 30th November

SunDAy CARvERy oFFER 4 for the price of 3 after 6pm on Sundays with this voucher (booking advised) * Offer ends Sunday 1st December

EARLy BIRDS KIDS SpECIAL Buy onE Kids Meal and GET onE Kids Meal FREE with every Adult Meal purchased ... from Main Menu Monday - Friday 3pm - 6.30pm

Shaftesbury Road, MERE, Wiltshire BA12 6BH  01747 861220 www.walnut-tree-inn.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2013 19

Care for the Elderly Candlelight - Making The Right Choice for Care

If you are paying for your care you 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?

Most local authorities have a list of preferred suppliers, but you can choose any company to provide your care services. It is your choice.

Quality care in a comfortable environment

Candlelight is an excellent choice, offering a high quality, friendly and professional service to enable you to have the life you deserve. Their charges are straightforward too.

Unlike many care companies they don’t charge extra for evenings or weekends. Just a simple hourly rate, which makes them very competitively priced and easy for you to manage.

Call them today to find out how they can make your life easier Somerset 01458 831201, Dorset 01935 817800.

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.

All rooms at Cary Brook are single occupancy with en-suite facilities. The home offers a comfortable and welcoming environment with an attractive enclosed garden and patio area for residents to enjoy.

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

20 THE VISITOR October 2013

Cary Brook residents followed the Duchess of Cambridge’s pregnancy with interest.

Care for the Elderly Cary Brook Residential Care Home

Cary Brook residents and staff followed the Duchess of Cambridge’s Pregnancy with interest and sent this letter to their Royal Highnesses: ‘Your Royal Highnesses, Congratulations on the birth of your son, our one day future King.

I write on behalf of all the residents here at Cary Brook – a 45 bedded residential care home situated in the peaceful town of Castle Cary, Somerset, that cares for residents who are experiencing problems with mental frailty and illness associated with dementia.

We work towards Person Centre Care and so staff took the liberty of having a model of the Duchess in her pregnant state, to allow the residents to reminisce – the females on when they were pregnant and the males on how they coped with it all.

We had prepared two ‘babies’ – one dressed in pink and another in blue; and once Her Royal Highness gave birth, our pregnant model emerged into model mum with ‘baby blue’.

What delight we all had the following day – reading the announcement displayed on our activities board – resident ‘Joyce’ who, upon reading the news, exclaimed ‘Oh Charles will be so pleased,’ and resident ‘Is’ talking to the Duchess and ‘Baby.’

To our delight we received a card with photograph of the couple and ‘Baby’ George with the following words: ‘The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were most touched that you took the trouble to write as you did on the occasion of the birth of their son, Prince George.

Their Royal Highnesses have been overwhelmed by all the wonderful messages they have received and send warmest thanks and best wishes.’

Senior’ – call in for further details.

A family run business – you can be sure of helpful, friendly advice with branches in Street, Wells and Frome.

With Christmas just around the corner, there are plenty of practical gift ideas such as slippers and walking sticks – plus gift tokens, which are extremely useful.

the Shaftesbury Road, supporting 120 care workers who deliver 2,500 hours of care and 4000 visits a week. It is a complex operation and the Carewatch Wessex staff have

Carewatch

Carewatch Wessex delivers health and social care in the community. The directors of the company are Hilary and Clive Drake who came to Gillingham with their 4 sons late in 1991.

Four years later, needing a second career after 32 years in the Army, Clive persuaded Hilary, an RGN with considerable community experience, to join him in taking on the Carewatch franchise for North Dorset, South Wiltshire and South Somerset. Annette Painter RGN is the Registered Manager, assisted by Debbie Wyatt the Operations Manager, both with 15 years service with the company. The area is large and rural so it is divided into six management areas in order to ensure the care workers get the support and quality control that is so important to the delivery of home care. There are Field Care Supervisors based in Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Sturminster Newton, Blandford, Sherborne and Warminster.

They ensure the continuity of

Carewatch Wessex is celebrating 17 years of delivering quality care in North Dorset

Relax in ComfoRt ... with our Rise & Recline Chairs and Beds Scooters & Wheelchairs - Sales & Hire Full Range of Everyday Living Aids  Wide Choice  Sensible Prices

Mendip Mobility

Mendip Mobility offer everything from scooter sales and hire through to practical everyday living aids such as incontinence pads and grab rails.

For those lacking mobility there is a good choice of rise and recline chairs and electric beds.

Bath lifts are also available.

For larger items Mendip Mobility can provide insurance and finance through ‘First

personal and practical care supplied to 300 people in the rural community, primarily elderly and infirm. There are 10 staff in the head office at Kingsmead Business Park, off

Finance available on request friendly and helpful advice do Call in

146 High Street, STREET, BA16 0ER  01458 448355 5 Palace Court, WELLS, BA5 1SY  01749 675599 Also at 20 Westway, FROME, BA11 1BS www.mendipmobility.co.uk

New address*

THE VISITOR October 2013 21

Care for the Elderly been well trained by their award winning Training Department, led by Hilary Drake. More than 65 of the staff have worked for the company for more than 5 years and a great deal of skill

and experience has been built up over the 17 years of providing care in the community of Gillingham and the towns & villages of the Blackmore Vale.

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

Beechwood House

Set in large, quiet 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 15 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 some quiet time, to meet visitors or to participate in the activities on offer. Their cooks prepare excellent home-cooked cuisine and special dietary requirements are catered for.

Make Showering a Pleasure ...

Get in and shower easily Stand securely on non-slip floors Move confidently with easy-grip handrails Easy-clean wall tiles Comfortable sit-on folding seat

Regal SolutionS (South West) ltd Bathroom design & installation – Specialist in disabled walk-in showers

6 Cranleigh Court, Palmer Street, South Petherton, ta13 5ea Tel: 01460 241753 / 929151 • Mob: 07843 339338 / 07702 888895 Website: regalsolutionssw.com • “ We take better care of you”

ATTRACTivE NEW FABRiC RANgES

Should you require them to order, collect and administer medication, they will gladly do so.

Maintain your way of life, whilst knowing that help is available whenever you need it. Above all, treat Beechwood House as your home. Please call Sandra Barclay, Manager, on 01935 472793 for more details.

Regal Solutions

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

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

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

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

Please contact them for a free quote.

Sit back and relax ...

Single Motor Chairs from just £450 and Dual Motor Chairs from £550 Call in and see our extensive range of Cosi chairs including our single and dual motor recliners.

We also have a full range of mobility scooters and everything else you need, from walking sticks to bath lifts.

Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.00pm Saturday 9.30am – 12.30pm Closed Bank Holidays • Other times by appointment

Units 1 & 2 great Western Road, Martock

0800 731 7078

SALES • SERviCE • REPAiRS 22 THE VISITOR October 2013

Stairlifts from £1,295 - fully installed with a 2 year warranty.

Available from A2B Mobility of Martock.

WET ROOM

Elderly

SPeCialiStS

Full Planning & Design service

Easy to use tap plus a close-up of sink edges showing finger/hand grip.

The Proliberty range by Laufen - barrier free bathrooms - is available from Simply Bathrooms and Bedrooms of Sherborne.

If you are having difficulty getting in and out of the bath ... a wet room is the perfect solution.

Wet rooms can be tailored to suit your personal requirements ViSit ouR ShowRoomS

simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms The Old Bakery, Half Moon street sherborne, DT9 3ln (Through Archway by Half Moon Inn)

Tel: 01935 817111 www.simplyBathandBed.co.uk info@simplyBathandBed.co.uk

Elliscombe House - Wincanton is set in beautiful grounds.

Private Nursing Care from £700.00 per week The Aurora Care Group offers private nursing care in our Somerset nursing homes at prices from £700.00 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 October 2013 23

keep your independence at home with

Elderly Mobile Gents Barber

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.

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 £32.05* Hire and monitoring £3.74 per week * Waived if on certain benefits

HartMobility yeovil Disability & Mobility Products

Mike Baker and Lance Wells are well known to many readers as they offer a barbering service at Wincanton, Milborne Port and Sparkford.

Mike and Lance also offer a home visit service which is particularly useful for those who are elderly or infirm. They are also very pleased to visit residential homes in the area with their barbering services just call for details.

gENTS & BOYS HAiRDRESSiNg

Independent Bathing Systems

Independent Bathing Systems is a small family run business specializing in problems faced by the elderly and infirm who are finding difficulty getting in and out of their bath.

They supply and install the full range of bathing aids from a battery operated chair lift or belt lift to a walk in easy access shower, or a bath with a door.

Written quotations are given for any proposed bathroom modifications and references from previous customers are always available.

~ at ~

The Barber’s Shop

WiNCANTON Memorial Hall Mondays 1.00pm – 5.30pm Thursdays 9.00am – 5.30pm Saturdays 8.00am – 12noon MilBORNE PORT Town Hall *Wednesdays 10.00am – 6.00pm * Please note new time

SPARkfORd Village Hall Fridays 12.45pm – 5.45pm Lance Wells & Mike Baker State Registered Or PHONE for a HOME ViSiT 01935 814074 or ...

07767 027798 (mobile)

Bathing made easier with Independent Bathing Systems.

Bathing Difficulties?

We offer the best service and the lowest prices in the

South West ★ new Scooter £595

For free information on the full range of bathing aids & walk-in showers

InDepenDent BathIng SyStemS

★ Road Legal Scooter £1,495

Chard 01460 221058 • mobile 07796 383330

★ Reclining Chairs from £595 ● ● ● ● ● ●

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

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

Pre-owned mobility scooters and wheelchairs also available

01935 421111 1 Camborne Grove (Lyde Road) YEOVIL BA21 5DG Scooter Servicing from £35 • FREE parking • FREE battery testing 24 THE VISITOR October 2013

Maintain independence in your own home

GILLINGHAM council received an application for a premises licence in August, seeking to open the shop daily from 10.00am until 11.00pm on weekdays and midnight at

weekends to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises.

The town council has raised no objections but it remains to be seen how other consultees view

Gillingham’s popular Hot Rock Carnival Club pictured at Mere Carnival. Gillingham’s Carnival takes place on Saturday 5th October (see our Letters Page for road closure details).

IS GILLINGHAM’S beleaguered High Street on the verge of recovery? On a recent stroll through the town centre the signs were beginning to look hopeful.

The large vacant shop on the corner of School Lane, formerly occupied by Witham House Designs, could soon become a Costa Coffee café if North Dorset District Council planners allow change of use. The application was submitted in early September and the franchisee is clearly optimistic about the outcome – adverts for staff appeared in the local paper on 13th September. ‘We are looking for a new team of people to work in and help run our new store, opening in a few weeks,’ it stated, with 20th September being the deadline for receipt of CVs. The plans also envisage a recessed shop frontage to provide an outdoor seating area, presumably for those who like a smoke with their coffee.

Further down the High Street one of the vacant units next to the former Co-op store could soon re-open as an off-licence. The

The Phoenix, once a coaching inn, is nowadays a popular pub and restaurant at the western end of the High Street.

Common Mead Lane, gillingham, Dorset SP8 4RE Turn into Broad Robin off B3081, continue past Mellowes Residential Home: Thorngrove is next on right

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

giANT AUTUMN SALE NOW ON Hundreds of plants at half price or less including herbaceous perennials, shrubs, fruit trees, and conifers AUTUMN HANgiNg BASkET WORkSHOPS 9th, 10th and 11th October, 2pm – 4.30pm ... ring to book your place NExT COFFEE MORNiNg Wednesday 30th October, 10am – 12noon • now halfway towards our fundraising target of £1000 for a defibrillator, thanks everyone!

Thorngrove garden Centre was set up by SCOPE, a national disability charity, whose vision is a world where disabled people have the same opportunities to fulfil their life ambitions as non-disabled people. By purchasing goods and services from Thorngrove you are supporting Scope's work in our local community. Thank you. Open: Monday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm.

THe

PHOenix Sales, Repairs & Servicing of PCs, Laptops and Peripherals Excellent & Professional Service & Support 26 Years of Experience in Computers Established Reputation

18 Broad Robin, GIllInGHAM SP8 4PJ Tel: 01747 821063 www.ajscomputing.co.uk email:sales@ajscomputing.co.uk

The Square GillinGham Dorset SP8 4AY

Open 7 days a week Serving Hot Drinks and Snacks from 10am Food served daily from 12pm until 3pm seniOr citizen 2 cOurse special for £6.95 available from Monday to Thursday Lunchtimes eveninG FOOd served Wednesdays to Saturday from 6pm until 9pm  christmas menu bookings now taken - full menu on request  sunday lunch starts at 12pm until 3pm, choice of 3 meats with fish and vegetarian options - £7.95 or 2 courses for £10.95 reGular live music Saturday 12th October - ‘Indigo Blue’

One stop shop for all your computer needs

tel 01747 823277 • email thephoenixpub@hotmail.co.uk

THE VISITOR October 2013 25

GILLINGHAM the proposal.

Towards the western end of the High Street the former Tudor Newsagents and Stationers shop, for many years a boarded-up eyesore, will shortly get a new lease of life as the computer business Netplay which has outgrown its present premises on School Lane. Work on renovating and decorating the building inside and out appeared to be

progressing well in midSeptember and I was told that it should be open for customers by mid-October.

Clearly these three businesses see a positive future for themselves in Gillingham. And many of the long-established retailers appeared to be flourishing, judging by the number of customers going through their doors. The High

Street still has Crockers traditional ironmongery and hardware shop with its extensive window displays tempting people to part with their money. The nearby photocopying shop is crammed so full of stationery, office requisites and computer consumables that there is scarcely room for the customers, while across the road the discount bookseller Superbook stocks

Gillingham’s war memorial, erected in 1920, was moved to the long-stay car park in 1983 and its setting has since been enhanced.

All Size Skips Available

For a perfect picture Poor reception? Aerial problems? givE US A RiNg Our engineer covers your area!

CASTLE CARY - WiNCANTON - giLLiNgHAM - SHERBORNE - SHAFTESBURY ETC. Confederation of Aerial Industries Membership Number C1361 • Trained Engineers Safety at Heights Certificate • C.R.B. Checked Staff • Full Public Liability Insurance • 12 Month Warranty

Panasonic ideas for life

All Major Cards Accepted

Units 10 & 11 Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, SP8 4PX 01747 826714 / 01747 826721 • tctv@gillingham.fsbusiness.co.uk

26 THE VISITOR October 2013

When hiring skips we can fill with aggregate - one delivery ✽ ✽ ✽ ✽ ✽ ✽ ✽ ✽ ✽

Call for enquiries Grab / beaver tail / tipper hire Screened or as dug soil Sand and gravel supplies 25 kilo bags Bulk bags Plant and tool hire All size deliveries Collected or delivered

Trade & DIY Welcome • Ring for enquiries • All rubbish clearance undertaken

Gillingham 01747 826107

GILLINGHAM thousands of books on a wide variety of subjects, all at reduced prices, together with a selection of audio books, maps, non-fiction DVDs, jigsaw puzzles and stationery items. And at the west end opposite the Phoenix the Scenes art shop and gallery stocks everything the budding artist could need. and has a fine selection of limited edition prints and posters that I would be happy to see in my home. It also sells craft materials and greetings cards and undertakes bespoke picture framing and attracts customers from far and wide .

The petshop, the florist and the post office with its recently expanded retail area all appeared to be busy. But conspicuous by their absence were the traditional high street shops – no butcher or baker, grocer or fishmonger, tobacconist or gents outfitter. The supermarkets have cornered the market in these traditional trades and the High Street is having to find a new purpose by catering for specialist interests and the leisure market, and these early signs are encouraging.

It’s not only the shops that give cause for optimism. Work is well underway with transforming the Town Meadow into a town centre

The new path across Town Meadow from the High Street to the footbridge over the River Stour provides a pleasant escape from the traffic in the heart of Gillingham.

asset. An all-weather path has been laid from the High Street to the footbridge over the River Stour to the Waitrose supermarket and the town’s library, providing a pleasant escape from the traffic in the heart of Gillingham. Benches have been installed and work is now being done to improve the ground to make it more suitable for staging events. The plan also includes planting some trees and

shrubs and installing an information board explaining the history of the site, but as the bulk of the work is being done by volunteers who are also raising the necessary funds the progress is fairly slow. But they’re getting there.

Opposite Town Meadow is the High Street’s large pay-anddisplay car park with a reasonably-priced short-stay area at the front, an essential facility if the town centre is to be well-used.

It’s worth strolling into the longstay section at the back to take a look at the town’s war memorial.

This was erected in 1920 and originally stood close to the Town Bridge, but due to subsidence it was moved into the car park in 1983. Here the annual Remembrance Day commemorations can now be held away from the noise and danger of passing traffic, and the setting of the memorial has recently been enhanced by the erection of an enclosure of stone and ornamental metalwork and the planting of flower-beds. This sign of tender loving care is clear evidence of confidence in the town centre’s future.

Gillingham’s population continues to grow and places like Orchard Park on the Shaftesbury Road with its farm shop, butchery, florist, gift shop and

Mayflowers Your local Interflora Florist

for a super selection of fresh cut flowers & plants visit us at ...

2a High Street, GilliNGHAM ... or why not order bY phone or websIte?

Tel: 01747 824424

www.mayflowersofgillingham.co.uk

All major credit cards accepted

Everything to furnish your home ■ Suites - traditional and contemporary ■ Beds - by Silentnight and Moonraker ... mattresses sold separately ■ Bedroom Furniture wide choice of designs / finishes ■ Carpets ■ Blinds ✴ Shabby Chic Department ✴ Houshold Accessories & Lighting

Gillingham Suite & Bed Centre

5 Riverbridge Parade, High Street, Gillingham Tel: 01747 822724 • www.suitesandbeds.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2013 27

GILLINGHAM café cater well for out-of-town shopping. And venues like the Dolphin Inn at Peacemarsh and the wine bar and grill at the north end of Queen Street are proving to be very popular. The Costa Coffee plans suggest that someone has done some market research and concluded that there is sufficient demand in the town centre for another café and that the High Street is a good location for it.

Judging by the number of people in the Waitrose café on the other side of the River Stour it’s probably the right conclusion and it could well add a little more vitality to what seems to have the potential to be a vibrant shopping street once again.

Roger Richards.

Roses for Hoses!

J. H. Rose & Sons of Gillingham are synonymous with feed haulage and aggregate supplies but they also successfully run a hydraulic hose business which has expanded – to offer a mobile service. They manufacture replacement hoses on the premises and offers a full fitting service. They have the franchise for Parker Hoses and stock one of the largest ranges in the area. With the introduction of two vans on the road they can now offer a fully mobile service covering most of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. Being part of the ‘Hose Doctor’ association they can even offer nationwide coverage – at competitive prices.

SceneS of Gillingham Blue Cross Print Sale Starts monday 7th October

For all your hydraulic hose requirements visit Chris Rose at J. H. Rose & Sons. They offer a fully mobile service too.

hydraulic hoses & fittings For ...

Plant Machinery • Civil Engineering Agriculture • Forestry

UP tO 60% OFF

All prints reduced – including many rare & publisher ‘sold out’ prints

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Free £10 Framing Voucher ... with every unframed print purchased

Replacement Hoses manufactured on the premises Extensive Range in stock Parkers Hose agents Hose Doctor 24-hour on site hose replacement Mobile Service – nationwide network

Follow us for the latest detailed offers

EMERGENCY CAll-OUT Wiltshire: 07970 621454 • Somerset: 07725 671203

SceneS • HigH Street • gillingHam tel/Fax: 01747 824050

Station Yard • GIllINGHAM • SP8 4PZ Tel: 01747 822514

J.H. ROSE & SONS LTD

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

“ Remember ... Roses for Hoses”

Carpets –vinyls Hardwood Flooring

karndean & Amtico flooring specialists gillingham’s flooring showroom is ...

Famous named Flooring with aSterfIt Prices you can afford and Quality you can trust floorIng

m

0174 7 826999 36 Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4PX

Price Match Policy (Conditions Apply)

Free estimating ...

Guaranteed Fitting Service

www.masterfitflooring.co.uk 28 THE VISITOR October 2013

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

The ViSiTor cAn noW be reAd online … www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Business Robert Stone & Co Chartered Accountants & Tax Advisers Ilminster Q1. Please help, I'm so worried. I've received several threatening letters from the Taxman demanding money, but I'm sure I'm up to date with my tax payments. I'm terrified the bailiffs will turn up on my doorstep and demand payment. What should I do?

Robert Stone replies:

Let us see those nasty letters and we will try and sort the matter out for you with the Tax Office. In the meantime, keep this number to hand: 0300 200 3862. If bailiffs do turn up ask to see their photo ID cards, take a note of the ID numbers and call that number to confirm whether the bailiffs are genuine. Also collect evidence of the tax payments you have made recently, such as bank statements. These may be enough to prove to the bailiffs that you have paid the tax you owe.

Q2. My company pays me the regular mileage rate of 45p per mile for business journeys I make in my own car. However, to reach certain customers I need to drive on mainland Europe, which requires extra car insurance that is quite expensive. Can my company reimburse me for the cost of that extra insurance without any extra tax?

Mid-West The Stationers Stationery, Cards and gift Wrap Office Equipment and Furniture Printer Inks & Toners Competitive Prices FREE Local delivery 2014 Diaries & Calendars now in stock Stockists of Lamy, Waterman, Sheaffer & Parker Pens Filofax & Collins Organisers Call at our shop ...

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

www.midwest-office.co.uk

Robert Stone replies:

The regular mileage rate is supposed to cover all the marginal costs of using your personal car for business, including insurance.

So if the company reimburses you for the extra cost of this insurance in addition to the mileage payment, that would be a taxable benefit in kind.

We need to look at the distances you are driving in Europe, and for what periods. If the time spent abroad is relatively short, it may be more economical for the company to hire a car for you while you are abroad. However, there is no substitute for crunching the numbers.

Q3. I need to get a high-end computer for my business, which will cost about £2,200, but I use the VAT flat rate scheme for small businesses which doesn't allow VAT reclaims. I've heard that I can claim back VAT charged on expensive items under the flat rate scheme, is that true?

Robert Stone replies:

Yes, under the flat rate scheme you can claim back VAT charged on the purchase of capital goods, which are items you will use in your business over a number of years. It must be a single purchase from one supplier with a VAT inclusive total of at least £2000, but that invoice can include several items bought together such as; screen, computer, and printer. The items must not be purchased for resale or for lease or hire.

Robert Stone is available to discuss all aspects of taxation.

Just call him on: 01460 55661.

MAx Foote Associates Ltd

LookInG GooD Family Health with

Jenna Evans Vegetarianism & Veganism

October 1st is World Vegetarian Day and with seemingly weekly headlines talking of the hazards of excess meat consumption (nutritional and environmental), this month I’m going to deal with some questions frequently asked by those who make this lifestyle change.

Will I be able to get enough Iron? Iron deficiency anaemia is a very common problem indeed, especially in women of child bearing age. The evidence suggests that veggies and vegans are no more likely to become anaemic than meat eaters. Iron from meat sources is faster/better absorbed but it seems that veggies still have an abundance of iron from plant foods and moreover this iron is often found in sources that contain nutrients such as vitamin C, which is essential for good iron absorption. As anaemia is such a common problem I would certainly advise everyone (especially women) to be aware of good sources of iron in their diets. For veggies these would include dark green leafy veg, nettles, wholegrains, pulses, cashews, almonds and apricots.

What about protein? Getting enough protein should never be a problem for veggies/vegans. The myth that they will somehow be lacking seems to stem from our understanding of protein. It is true

that animal based foods provide what is called a ‘first class’ or ‘complete’ protein, meaning that they provide all of the essential amino acids, whereas the majority of plant proteins do not. Plant sources will generally be lacking or limited in one or more of the essential amino acids, meaning that we need to eat a variety of foods to get a good combination.

With a varied diet including pulses, wholegrains, nuts and seeds this really isn’t an issue. It is also worth bearing in mind that there are several plant based proteins considered to be ‘first class’ including amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, spirulina and soya.

When you factor in that there may be many benefits from eschewing meat proteins - which have been associated with higher rates of cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis and kidney disease - and that there are whole swathes of body builders following a vegan diet, the notion that veggies could somehow be lacking in protein seems absurd!

The Janome Model DKS30 everything is made easy with this machine! Easy set bobbin, 2 wide angled LED lights, auto needle threader, pattern elongation plus much more. Just one of the many sewing machines available with something to suit all requirements and budgets - from Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts of Sturminster Newton.

Chartered Certified Accountants and registered Auditors 26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary BA7 7BH tel: 01963 351052 Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service THE VISITOR October 2013 29

LookInG GooD Will I need to supplement B12?

Ah, now this is probably the most conflicting area to cover. If you look into the subject you will find that different sources give you completely different opinions. From those that think this vitamin is never obtainable from plant sources, to those who will give you a list of potential food sources such as algaes, sea vegetables and fermented foods. B12 is produced by soil bacteria - this is how it ends up in an animal in the first place so there is a strong argument that if we were eating more foods, fresh from the soil, we would be getting plenty of this bacteria too. Now,

as hardly any of us ever eat anything directly from earth to mouth, it would seem prudent to ensure that intake of this vitamin is adequate from other sources.

For veggies and vegans this should be easily achieved by using fortified foods and if thought necessary as a supplement. It is also important to bear in mind that the body only uses teeny tiny amounts of this nutrient and will keep some stored for a few years. This means there can be a risk of becoming deficient without realising. It is the only nutrient that I would have on the ‘watch’ list for veggies and vegans and only if they were not being very nutritionally aware.

Those are probably the top three

CeLeBRATInG 30 YeARS

Élégance Beauty Therapy Clinic For a complete range of treatments ...

Ceres Natural Foods in Yeovil have a great range of veggie and vegan foods. Jenna is available instore at Ceres to advise by appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.

Elegance Beauty Therapy Clinic

* Facials * Waxing * * Bodywrap * Pedicures * * Manicures ... and more * A LADIeS onLY SALon

Sandie Barrett

M.B.A.B. • Th.C. • C.I.D.e.S.C.o.

8b Church Street, Wincanton (01963) 34115

The Dress Circle Dress Agency

QUAlITY FASHION ITEMS WANTED TO SEll ON A COMMISSION BASIS Wedding hats, wedding outfits, cruise wear and good quality casual wear and accessories, accepted every day ...

10am - 4pm Monday - Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday For large quantities collections can be arranged

4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY  01458 273485

New classes available

questions I get asked and if you have any others the following websites are fantastic resources viva.org.uk and vrg.org. If you are deciding to make the change or even give up meat for a couple of days a week - pop into your local health food shop to see the vast and tasty range of veggie and vegan foods on offer - it's not just a load of old lentils after all!

Jenna Evans ©2013

This easy-to-wear dress from Braintree is available from Maya of Langport (see advert back page) who are now pleased to offer an online shopping service.

Just because Autumn is on its way it doesn't mean you can let yourself go - remember all those parties aren't far off! Elegance Beauty Therapy Clinic can keep you looking radiant all through the change of season.

A Facial will help to brighten your complexion, starting at £30 it will cleanse, rehydrate - and relax you.

Keeping up with Waxing is a good idea. It lasts longer during the cooler months and will give you much better results if you keep it up all year round. Half leg £14.

Although feet will be tucked away, you still need to look after them and a Pedicure for £25 includes a lovely foot massage.

With the party season arriving colourful nails on fingers and toes add a touch of glamour.

Don't forget there are lots of other treatments available such as Eyebrow Shaping, Eyelash

... a new look for Autumn! and Eyebrow Tinting, Electrolysis and slimming Bodywraps too.

Elegance is now able to offer an Aloe Vera weight management programme - call in for details.

Pilates with Cordelia

Cordelia Worsley has 25 years experience in Pilates and dance instruction. Pilates is a highly effective solution for back / neck and joint problems, pre and post natal needs as well as general fitness, toning and inch loss.

Recommended by doctors, osteopaths, chiropractors and consultants. Classes available in Sherborne and Yeovil. Free trial class. One-to-one lessons are offered in Yeovil, Sherborne, Hazelbury Bryan, Holwell and the surrounding areas. Sessions can be shared with a friend or two!

Classes start from £5.75 and oneto-one session rates are available on application. Please see website for more information, or phone Cordelia on 01935 412104.

Autumn Dressing

Ladies, if you are looking to update your wardrobe this autumn - why not pay a visit to one of your local independent retailers as featured on these pages. Here you will find an individual and inspiring collection of fashion houses plus a friendly and personal service!

Sassie of Crewkerne

New at Sassie Ladies Fashion Boutique are clothing ranges from the Masai Clothing Company and Mado et les Autres.

Masai clothing is a high quality distinctive collection designed for ladies who enjoy layering and matching fabulous prints and textures with flattering shapes for any figure.

The Mado collection is distinctively French combining quality fabrics, individual designs

Ladies Fashion Boutique

Mon

Tues

Weds

Thurs

6.30pm The 94 Club Yeovil

2pm Digby Hall Digby Road Sherborne

6.30pm Bucklers Mead Sports Hall

4.30pm Digby Hall Digby Road Sherborne

Beginner / Intermediate

Telephone: 01935 412104 Web: www.cordeliasclasses.com

Intermediate / Advanced

6pm Bucklers Mead Sports Hall Beginner / Intermediate

Email: cordelia.worsley@gmail.com

30 THE VISITOR October 2013

Beginner / Intermediate

One to one sessions available

Intermediate / Advanced

5.45pm Digby Hall Digby Road Sherborne Beginner / Intermediate

exciting Autumn collections Leading FASHION HOUSES stocked including ...

Adini ✴ Masai ✴ Chianti ✴ Tina Taylor Mado et les Autres and more Various JEWELLERY including Dante HANDBAGS by Gorjus

8 Church Street, Crewkerne, TA18 7HR Tel: 01460 74323 Follow us on Facebook

... a new look for Autumn!

LookInG GooD delightful store. And due in next are some simply stunning boots with bright floral embellishments.

So when in Castle Cary, pop into Needful Things Clothing for a truly unique look.

Oxford Mill

New at Oxford Mill this season, luxury faux fur coats, gilets and accessories from Ruby & Ed don’t miss the famous hooded fur coat as worn by Sienna Miller.

From Peregrine tactile merino wool knitwear and jackets made from British Millerain’s weatherJoanne Parsons-Fox, proprietor of Laney’s in Sturminster Newton, with the the newly arrived autumn collections.

and clean fresh colours and neutrals.

Dante is the new range of jewellery with the objective of providing good quality at a reasonable price.

At Sassie they aim to provide good friendly customer service in elegant surroundings, making your shopping experience a pleasant one.

make you stand out from the crowd! Scarves, belts, bags and many other subtle accessories make all the difference in this

needful Things

Needful Things of Castle Cary are in the mood for a warm and cozy Autumn with their sumptuous range of Ladies Autumn Clothing!

Warm Teal, Burnt Orange, Deep Raspberry and Damson. Their excellent brands such as Pomodoro; Great Plains; In Town; Miss Baron and New Label, Saskia are right on trend with an eclectic mix of easy to wear separates, classic evening wear and just enough added sparkle to

lookinG Good & FeelinG Fine The Latest Fashion Beauty Treatments Health Topics

proof fabrics, all proudly made in England.

Braintree is a unique company producing sustainable, natural and easy wear styles for everyday living, including beautiful knitted throws that add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe.

For that extra special gift, why not try our gorgeous fragrances and toiletries from luxury London brands Geo F. Trumper for men and Floris for women.

Come and visit Castle Cary for a great day out - and with free parking.

Autumn Collection

Laney’s now in at ...

LaDiES

FaSHion

Exquisite lambswool & Merino knitwear from Hawick Stunning separates and dresses in this season’s colours ... sizes 10 – 18 Handbags, scarves & jewellery to complete your outfit “For fashion that flatters – Laney’s”

market Place, Sturminster newton Dorset, Dt10 1ar telephone: 01258 472674

feature each month in ...

The Visitor

Oxford Mill of

To advertise here tel:

01963 351256

nexT ISSue noveMBeR Print: Thursday 31st october Deadline: Monday 21st october

autumn Collection now in ...

stylish easy to wear separates and dresses from ...  great Plains

 Pomodoro

Castle Cary Clothing and Gifts for Men and Women

 In Town ... and more!  Jewellery and Accessories

7 HigH STREET, CASTLE CARY, BA7 7AN  01963 351352 www.needfulthings.uk.com

MAdE in EnGLAnd The Market Place, Castle Cary, BA7 7AG Tel: 01963 350230 THE VISITOR October 2013 31

YEOVIL Independent Traders chairs and sofa beds from Sherborne Upholstery are also available. Find them at Huish opposite the Yeovil Mail Sorting Office – ample free parking outside the door. Visit their website for further details.

IT DOESN’T MATTER whether you approach Yeovil from the north, south, east or west you can’t help but notice the hanging baskets and wonderful flower displays that are immaculately maintained. A credit to the team who look after them, helping to make the town an attractive place to shop.

Yeovil ... a town where you can find just about anything you could possibly need ... from a new kitchen or a service for the car, to bespoke handmade furniture or even a new job!

Here are just a few of the diverse businesses to be found in the town and on the trading estates on the outskirts.

Ceres Natural Foods

The Bed Specialists

A good night’s sleep is priceless – so choosing the right bed is an important decision. At The Bed Specialists in Yeovil you can be sure of a quality bed at a sensible price.

A family-run business for over 46 years they stock only leading brands such as Myers, Hypnos

Attractive floral displays add a splash of colour, making Yeovil Town a pleasant place to shop.

and Vi-spring. Whether you are looking for a stylish sleigh bed, a drawer divan or perhaps bunk beds for the kiddies, The Bed

Specialists can help. They offer unbiased, friendly and helpful advice. Delivery is free (40 mile radius), your new bed is assembled and your old bed disposed of – plus a price match promise. Mattresses can be purchased separately.

In addition to beds a range of

A family run business with 46 years experience

Organic Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Large range of vegetarian and vegan products Find our complete range in store or shop online with us at www.healthfoodsuk.com

9 – 11 Princes Street, Yeovil, BA20 1EN Tel: 01935 428791 www.ceresfoods.com

32 THE VISITOR October 2013

Whether you’re after gluten free, sugar free, dairy free, vegan or just plain old wholesome food fare, Ceres have what you need.

Featuring a wide selection of wholefoods and remedies including nutritional supplements, herbals, homeopathy, aromatherapy, ‘superfoods’ and flower essences – all with expert advice from trained product advisors. With a good selection of eco home products, wines & beers, baby and child care, brewing & winemaking, as well as an extensive range of natural toiletries – Ceres is your one stop holistic health shop!

Martin & Co.

Martin & Co is a specialist Letting and Property Management agency managed by Emma Higgins a local retired Naval Officer. A franchise of the nationwide award-winning chain of Letting Agents, the Yeovil office, which covers the whole of South Somerset and West Dorset is located in Princes Street, Yeovil. Focussing on high levels of customer service with excellent communication with both Landlords and Tenants, Emma aims to ensure maximum rental income for her Landlords and well-managed homes for her Tenants, providing both with the peace of mind which comes from working with friendly, professional and efficient property agents.

YEOVIL Independent Traders Yeovil Auto Tuning

Yeovil Auto Tuning celebrated 30 years of business in 2012 and this year has acquired Victoria Road Motor Services of Yeovil, taking over both their client base and their telephone number 01935 471328.

Yeovil Auto Tuning is a family business run by Colin Frost, his wife Anita who deals with the reception and office work, plus mechanics Jamie and Ross.

This small friendly team offer general servicing specialising in VW T4 and T5 vans, MOT’s and

Ward & Sibley - the jewellers of Yeovil, a family-run business situated at the bottom of Middle Street. Customer parking at rear.

repairs. They also offer tyres and tracking and are stockists of Winns specialists products. For a professional service at competitive prices visit Yeovil Auto Tuning.

SES

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

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

Burglar Alarm, Security Lighting and Lock quotations are issued free of charge following a

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

Acorn Music

Acorn Music is an Independent Music Store stocking thousands of CDs, everything from rock, pop and jazz to classical folk and blues.

For musicians there is a range of guitars, ukuleles and recorders plus a wide selection of accessories including capos, drum sticks, strings, straps, picks, leads, tuners, gig bags stands and music books.

If you have outgrown your own CD collection and are looking to make some space at home, Acorn Music purchase good quality CD and record collections and will arrange for collection.

For further information telephone 01935 425503.

WARd & SibleY The Jewellers of Yeovil

oUR RepAiR SecTion of The bUSineSS iS pleASed To offeR:

 Complete refurbishment of jewellery soldering charms onto bracelets, sizing rings, repairing chains, jewellery cleaning

AcOrn MusIc

MusIc BOOks - GuITAr sTrInGs - PIcks - sTrAPs LEAds - druMsTIcks - cAPOs Still stocking the Widest Range of CDs for miles around ...

Classical - Jazz - Folk - Blues - Rock and lots more  Acorn Tokens make Ideal Gifts 

 Watch and clock repairs including battery replacements

3 Glovers Walk, Yeovil  01935 425503

 Jewellery handmade to your own design  Seal and hand engraving  Valuations for insurance and probate  Pearl and bead re-threading for a prompt and reliable service ThE cAskET, 103 MIddLE sTrEET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

YeovIl’s IndependenT MusIc sTore

A company built on an excellent reputation

Yeovil Auto Tuning

• • • • • • •

EstablishEd OvEr 30 YEars

Repairs and Servicing Specialists MOT Testing • Engine Tuning Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes Competitive Rates Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW & Audi Group)

Alexandra Road, Yeovil Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946 The Visitor can now be read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2013 33

YEOVIL Independent Traders Puffin Cleaners

Beautiful flowers at Andrea’s of Yeovil. Special occasion? Why not add a balloon or teddy bear to your floral arrangement. Andrea’s, your local Interflora agent.

As the wedding season draws to a close now is a good time to have your wedding dress cleaned. Puffin Cleaners have 40 years experience in wedding dress cleaning and offer an excellent service for all dresses, using either wet or dry cleaning processes.

Once cleaned there are two ways to store the dress. The cheaper option is a breathable gown cover. This repels moisture and dust and allows air to circulate around the garment.

The other, long-term option is a wedding box. The dress is folded

in acid free paper and packed in the box for indefinite storage.

Puffins are happy to supply both.

Puffins are offering for a limited period a 20% discount on all wedding dress cleaning. For the cost of cleaning and storage options please telephone Puffin Cleaners on 01935 421238.

Gone Potty

Gone Potty of Yeovil is celebrating 20 years of trading. Situated at 80 Middle Street their shop is well worth a visit. There is a wonderful selection of quality silver jewellery both plain and set with semi-

precious stones. They also have a wide range of body jewellery at very competitive prices.

There are two floors with plenty of gift ideas - crystals, scented candles, incense, ornaments, clothing and more. Retro gifts include lava lamps and ceramic camper vans. There is something for everyone. Why not call in and see for yourself, alternatively you can visit their website and buy online.

Through the month of October to celebrate 20 years of trading, there will be a range of discounted products and double loyalty points.

Flowers say so much!

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

BOuquETs • ArrAnGEMEnTs • PLAnTs As an extra treat why not add a Box of Chocolates or a Teddy?

Andrea’s of Yeovil 78 Middle Street, Yeovil BA20 1LT Freephone: 08000 92 93 50 Telephone: 01935 706526

sPEcialist sErvicEs

including

● Leather and Suede – cleaning & repairs also replacement zips ● Wax Garments – cleaning & rewaxing ● Curtains – cleaning & repairs also shortening and relining ● Repairs & Alterations to most garments

silver fashion jewellery

stunning silver and gemstone jewellery 80 Middle Street, YEOVIL, BA20 1LT Tel: 01935 411065 BuY OnLInE: www.gone-potty.co.uk

autumn bridal Promotion

20% OFF

Wedding Dress Cleaning Maximum discount, cannot to be used in conjunction with any other offer, or discount cards.

Direct sale only - not available through Agencies.

● Large Agency network – contact us to find your nearest agent

17 / 18 Bond Street, Yeovil

Tel: 01935 421238 34 THE VISITOR October 2013

17 / 18 Bond Street, Yeovil

Tel: 01935 421238

YEOVIL Independent Traders  This stylish kitchen is just one of many available from Intoto of Princes Street, Yeovil, (see their advert on the front cover).

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

The Winking Frog

The able2achieve Trust is a registered Charity and directly support people with a learning difficulty and associated disabilities to be more independent, specifically in work related enterprises; The establishment of a sandwich shop The Winking Frog on Princes Street in Yeovil offers both training and supported employment opportunities for our learners, it is a safe but realistic environment for vulnerable adults to access real work.

The Winking Frog is open Monday to Saturday, all cakes and food are homemade from local produce; we retail organic and local SW produce from Coombe Farm Direct. able2achieve enables both specialist day provision (Coombe

Farm, Crewkerne, telephone: 01460 279520) and support individuals living in their community as a registered and approved provider across the County.

John Hamblin Furniture Restorer

John Hamblin’s is a family run business, situated on the Pen Mill Trading Estate in Yeovil for 29 years. Well known for his antique furniture restoration and repairs, John undertakes all types of repairs including insurance work on flood and removals damage.

Pricing is competitive and a collection and delivery service is available. Contract work is also undertaken. John also makes bespoke furniture - ideal if you are looking to fill an awkward corner and can’t find what you

are looking for in the shops.

John and his team also run Mark’s Models who specialize in all types of plastic and die cast models and accessories – with hundreds to choose from they are well worth a visit.

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

The Winking Frog Cafe

QuIrkY and InnovaTIve We only use organic & local produce • Homemade Cakes • Light Lunches • Organic Coffees  TAkE AWAY SERVICE AVAILABLE  Coombe Farm Dairy & Meat Produce on sale ...

Yoghurts – Hams – Rare Breed Sausages – etc.

Photographic Gallery of Local Artists on display run by and in aid of able 2 achieve • WiFi available

17 Princes street, Yeovil • Tel: 01935 508151

The NuMber ONe Tile SpeciAliST the tile Market are suppliers of wall & floor tiles, natural stone, slate, marble, travertine, limestone and glass tiles.

Adhesives, grout, tile trims, sealers etc.

All available from stock. established in 1988, we have built up an exceptional reputation for supplying a wide range of the finest tiles across Somerset and the neighbouring counties. contact the tile Market for your next project - visit us online at www.tilesuppliersinyeovil.co.uk

Have you visited the Tile Market on the Lynx Trading Estate? Tiles galore in a wide range of colours and styles for you to select from.

tel / Fax 01935 426737 thetilemarket@aol.com Unit 1, brympton Way lynx West trading Estate Yeovil, somerset, ba20 2hP www.facebook.com/thetilemarket

THE VISITOR October 2013 35

YEOVIL Independent Traders The Tool Shop & Vice Centre

It is six years since the Tool Shop & Vice Centre moved from opposite Wilkinson in Middle Street, Yeovil to larger premises.

Situated under the archway just past Fit & Furnish it is an Aladdins cave for the DIY-er and professional alike - everything from screws and hand tools through to compressors and generators. Both new and used equipment is on sale.

There is a good range of electrical tools by leading makes such as Dewalt. Torches, garden shredders, mouse traps, reflective jackets, socket sets, ramps, whatever you are looking for you will find it at the Tool Shop & Vice Centre. Anything not in stock can be ordered. Helpful and friendly advice is on hand. Very competitive prices. Special offers in store.

Norris Body Repairs

Norris Body Repairs is a familyrun business near the town centre which carries out car body repairs paint work, restoration and MOT

welding work. Large and small jobs welcome.

If you have an insurance claim you can choose where your car is repaired and Norris Body Repairs offer a friendly alternative to the larger body shops. Richard Norris has over 20 years experience in the industry and will ensure you receive individual attention – together with a free estimate and highly skilled repair.

Norris Body Repairs carry out welding work on vehicles that may have failed their MOT. Call Mary Norris to book your car in for repair today or call in for a free estimate.

Make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning service is working properly. At Yeovil Hydraulics they recharge air conditioning units.

The garage side of the buisness offers a full servicing programme on all makes of vehicle and is a MOT Testing station.

Crossroads Pet Supplies

A visit to Crossroads Pet Supplies is a must if you have a pet of any sort or if you like to feed the wild

birds. Situated on the Causeway betwen Yeovil and Sherborne there is ample free parking right outside the door. The shop is filled from floor to ceiling with all leading makes of pet and animal feed, toys, beds, hutches etc. Prices are competitive with discounts on bulk purchases. Whether you are looking for worming tablets for the dog or a flea collar for the cat - do call in. They have a good selection of bird feeders and food too!

Yeovil Hydraulics

Established since 1968 Yeovil Hydraulics on the Lynx Trading Estate offers a professional hydraulic and pneumatic service to both the agricultural and industrial sector. Hose assembly is available while you wait.

They also offer a gas delivery and installation service for central heating systems. This service covers most of the South West.

NORRIS BODY REPAIRS LTD ■ Insurance Claims ■ Private Jobs ■ Restorations ■ Resprays ■ Welding Work

When it comes to carpeting and flooring, you can be sure of professional advice from Walter Wall Carpets of Princes Street.

 100s of rugs

in stock  Extensive range of quality carpets  Natural flooring specialists

24 Hour Recovery: 07792 380275

South Street • YEOVIL • BA20 1QQ Tel: 01935 411095

email: norrisbodyrepairs@gmail.com • Fax: 01935 473119

. . . do call in !

34 Princes Street, Yeovil. Tel: 01935 478100 Dog tired of high prices? visit

YEOvil hYdraUlics • MaYFlOWEr hYdraUlics • Fluid & Air Power Centre • Hydraulic Equipment Manufacturers • RAM Makers and Repairers • Stockists of all your Hydraulic & Pneumatic Needs • Suppliers of all types of Industrial Hoses • Manufacturers of High Pressure Hoses - while you wait!

unIVErsAL

EnGInEERInG SERVICES • mot testing • car servicing and repairs • all makes and models • brakes, tyres, clutches, exhausts • air conditioning

01935 475959 tel: 01935 472233 Fax: 01935 431211

Part of vGG ltd

14 Gazelle Road, Lynx Trading Estate, Yeovil

36 THE VISITOR October 2013

tel: 01278 450226 Fax: 01278 446670

Symons Way, Castlefield Trading Estate, Bridgwater

crOssrOAds PET suPPLIEs suppliers of

• Pet Foods • Bird & Pigeon Seeds • Full range of Toys, Hutches, Accessories ... all at competitive prices Ample FREE PARkInG outside the Door Find us at Forward Garage on the main A30 between Sherborne & Yeovil

Tel: 01935 411859 .

Second Hand Goods In Store ...

Record Maxi 126 12" Planer Thicknesser / Spindle Moulder + Circular Saw & Mortice, all for – £649 Hayter Harrier 48" Mower – £149 De Walt 18 volt SDS Drill (new) 2 x 4 AH batteries – £319 .95 McCulloch Shredder – £59 .95 Digital Inverter Generator – £110

107 Middle street, Yeovil  01935 412333 Under archway between Fit & Furnish and The Nail bar

YEOVIL Independent Traders Kitchens & Updates

Kitchens & Updates in Yeovil boasts 2000 sq ft of showrooms located in a barn studio at Preston Road, just down the road from Asda.

Proprietor Neville Yeo has over 30 years in the industry so can offer invaluable advice on design, products etc.

Kitchens & Updates offer a full range of installation solutions from simple door and drawer front changes to complete projects, including plumbing, electrical work, plastering, tiling and the fitting of gas appliances

by Gas Safety engineers.

Over the years they have built up an enviable reputation

through recommendation and word of mouth. This can only be achieved by constantly providing a high standard.

Kitchens & Updates have a huge choice of kitchens to suit all budgets – with currently 400

individual kitchens available, from foil and vinyl wrapped solid wood and painted – High Gloss and more.

Visit their showrooms to see their full range, or ring for a free home visit.

The Yeovil and Shepton Mallet Berries pictured at the Western Gazette Business Awards 2013.

✔ 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

✔ 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

✔ Honesty - Good old fashioned honest prices ... 

No ‘permanent sales’, ‘free fitting’ or other over-used sales gimmicks WHy not put uS to tHe teSt?

01935 472100

Higher Preston Farm, Preston Road YEoVIl, BA20 2ET (Just down from ASDA) www.kitchen-updates.co.uk

Town Centre Mudford

Kitchens & Updates Zoe’s Hair

AsDA

Town Centre Houndstone

Preston Road Ilchester

Retail Park

MOTOR VINTAGE Motor Cycling I START THIS MONTH with the forthcoming events which I hope will be of interest to you. During October the Somerset Section have a guest speaker at their club night on the 3rd. On the 5th there will be the usual autojumble at the Bath & West Showground and on the 13th they have the Autumn Leaves Run from Bishop Sutton. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section also have a guest speaker at its club night on the 14th. The Dorset Section has a guest speaker (do I detect a trend here) at their club night on the 9th and on the 13th there is the first of the seasons Winter Runs starting from Sherborne. Dorset has its usual Lunch Meet on the 2nd and the Breakfast Meet on the 26th. Even though Autumn will have arrived there is still plenty to do and see, as usual ring 01935-872528 for further details of any of these events.

The twice yearly autojumbles organised by the Somerset Section seem to come around so quickly. Time once more to sort out those unwanted bits and pieces that lurk on shelves in every workshop, and turn them into hard cash, in the hope that the purchaser has been looking for that part for months or years.

Also time to make a list of all those items you are seeking for the next restoration project. The list is also likely to include those consumable items that we all need.

Many enthusiasts use all spare time during the summer months servicing and cleaning the machines which are in regular use. Now is the time we tend to look for a project for the coming winter months. Less riding means a little more time in the workshop. Have a look at the forthcoming autojumble for your next restoration machine.

Caution is a sensible and wise way to proceed. The machine you find may be the ultimate goal of your dreams, and no matter what its condition, that must be your next purchase. But first give it a good look over to establish what is missing. Remember that absent tinware can be jolly expensive to buy, even if you can find it. A cheap machine which is incomplete can finish up a lot more expensive than perhaps THE VISITOR October 2013 37

MOTORING

Wine & Dine British Chocolate Week 14th - 20th October

Arriving in style for the Jeff Clew Memorial Run at Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford.

paying a little more for a complete machine in the first place. Being complete is a little more important than the actual condition because these days there are plenty of specialists who can refurbish or recondition more or less anything. There is very little out there that cannot be fixed one way or another.

I spoke last month of the Jeff Clew Memorial Run which went ahead as planned on the 18th August. 65 entrants started the event, which was a fitting tribute to Jeff who was a regular rider with our club. This was the forth running of this event from the Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford. Heavy showers spoilt the ride and the downpours sent some riders on a direct route home to get dry. Riding over and judging having been completed the prizes were presented by Jeff’s two daughters and our Section President. One unfortunate rider took a tumble on some loose gravel but luckily only slight injuries resulted. My photograph this month shows one rider arriving in style for the event. A 1930’s Alvis car towing a trailer with his 1911 Triumph motor cycle on it. If you have to arrive then do it in style with suaveness and sophistication. Next years event is scheduled for the 29th June.

The summer of 2012 was pretty awful weatherwise and quite a contrast to the dry and sunny weather we are now enjoying. All events go so much better if the sun shines. It has certainly helped me with my outside workshop.

Apart from the routine maintenance I have made good progress with my Rover restoration project and improved my sun tan. The Rover is now standing on its own wheels and most cycle parts have been assembled. There is still plenty to do and currently on the bench is the gearbox in as many pieces as can be found in a gearbox. Luckily everything seems to be in good order and so cleaning and reassembly should not take long.

The list of jobs to do is steadily decreasing and a self-imposed completion date of spring 2014 is not an impossibility.

October and November are the usual months for clubs to sort out next years events dates. Most clubs work at least 15 months ahead. There’s a plethora of events these days with some Sundays having as many as six riding events available to those of us willing to travel a bit. Sometimes neighbouring clubs or Sections have events which clash. What a pity everyone cannot get together and sort this problem out. Too many events means enthusiasts are spread too thinly and lower attendances result. A little give and take would alleviate the problem to everyones advantage.

Most local Sections have a meeting with me at the Bath & West Autojumble at 11am in the upstairs restaurant.

Representatives from other local clubs would be welcome to join us.

It might achieve nothing, but it must be worth a try.

Rod Hann.

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

G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414 38 THE VISITOR October 2013

EVERYONE enjoys chocolate and here in Visitorland we are fortunate to have a chocolatier in our midst, James Hutchins of James Chocolates, Evercreech.

James started making his luxury handmade chocolates in 1995 and today his chocolate is sought by connoisseurs all over the world.

Chocolate is made from cocoa beans, which are the seeds of the cacao, a tropical tree that can grow up to 12 metres high. Each fruit (pod) contains 25 - 40 beans, rounded or flattened in shape and depending on the variety, can be grey, purple or bluish in colour.

The beans are extracted from the ripe pods and heaped up into mounds so that they ferment. This process helps to develop their flavour. They are then sorted, washed, dried and roasted.

To produce perfect chocolate the quality of the cocoa bean, the country of origin, and the manufacturing process is vital, just as it is for fine wines.

Ideally chocolate should contain a minimum cocoa content of 60% for dark and 30% for milk.

However, just because a chocolate contains 70% cocoa does not mean it is good – if the cocoa beans, original ingredients and the production processes are not good, then you are not buying good chocolate!

Chocolate shouldn’t contain anything you don’t recognise - so if you see an ‘e’ number, artificial

preservatives or hydrogenated fats, think again!

When eating dark chocolate look out for a flawless, evenly coloured appearance - a deep shade of mahogany or red. There should be no cracks or air pockets, streaks or sugar bloom.

The chocolate should smell good as you unwrap it with a nice deep aroma. Sweetly fragrant but not overpowering. It should feel silky to the touch and should snap cleanly when the bar is broken. On tasting, you may be able to detect vanilla, caramel, roasted nuts, fruit, spices or other flavours. The texture should be smooth and buttery, gently dissolving into a creamy liquid filling the mouth with its complexity of flavours. It must not be grainy or 'gluey'. If it's 'waxy' or 'clacky' it sometimes means the cocoa butter has been replaced with vegetable fat - and it is not real chocolate.

We now eat on average just under 7 oz per person per week.

The confectionery industry is worth over £5 billion in the UK alone, of which chocolate is £3.5 billion.

With British Chocolate Week taking place 14th - 20th October, celebrate Britain’s love of chocolate by treating yourself to some delicious James Chocolates, or try making a Beetroot & Chocolate Cake.

Beetroot & Chocolate Cake

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes

WIN WIN WIN

WIN this box of James Chocolates. Just answer the following question: What year did James Hutchins start making his handmade chocolates?

Entries by email to: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk or by post to: Chocolate Competition, The Visitor Ltd., P.O.Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. Entries will be placed in a hat and the winner will be the first correct entry drawn. Closing date: Friday 11th October.

Ingredients 250g plain cooked (vacuum packed) beetroot, drained 200g quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) 200g plain flour 200g unsalted butter, melted 100g dark brown sugar 100g caster sugar 3 large eggs 2tbsp cocoa powder 2tsp baking powder 1tsp vanilla extract Icing sugar for dusting Method 1. Pre heat the oven to 180˚C/ Gas Mark 4. Grease and line a 23cm loose bottomed cake tin.

2. C h o p t h e b e e t r o o t i n t o quarters and puree in a food processor.

3. Break the chocolate into small pieces and put to one side some larger pieces will give the cake a great texture.

4. A d d t h e r e m a i n i n g ingredients, including the broken chocolate, to the processor and whizz until well mixed. Pour into the prepared cake tin and lightly level out the surface.

5. Bake in a pre-heated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. The surface of the cake may have cracked a little. Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes in the tin before removing to a cooling rack.

6. Dust lightly with icing sugar and serve in wedges. For dessert, this cake is great with a little crème fraiche on the side. Serves 8. Recipe from: www.lovebeetroot.co.uk

Bower hinton Farm Shop Martock

Open Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm

Farm open Day ... with tastings!

saturday 5 th October 10am – 2pm Smoked Fish - Chesil Smokery pork Sausages - Sausage Shed Goose Sausages - Goose Slade Farm Cider from Northcotts & Ham Hill Wines - Lyme Bay • JJ Cakes Local Cheeses • Marshmallows oWn GroWn proDUCe inc.

Sacks of Potatoes • Cauliflowers Cabbage • Broccoli Own Grown Strawberries ... until end of October

pUMpKInS CoFFee Shop open

Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Tel: 01935 827743

House & Home ALTHOUGH SEPTEMBER has been relatively warm and sunny, the mornings and evenings already have that autumnal nipin-the-air and our thoughts are turning to cosy winter evenings in front of the fire.

Last year we had our first snow fall in Somerset on Sunday 4th November, (that’s less than 6 weeks away) so now’s the time to prepare for winter 2013.

If you have an open fire or a woodburner, your chimney should be swept and your carbon monoxide detector checked to see that it is in good working order, along with any smoke detectors you may have. Ensure any vents are not blocked. Hopefully you will have ordered your coal during the summer - when prices are often cheaper - and you have plenty of seasoned logs stored in dry conditions.

Boilers should be serviced and if you have oil central heating, the storage tank should be checked and an oil delivery ordered if necessary. Don’t wait until your tank is almost empty before ordering as icy road conditions can delay a delivery and you may run out completely.

With the ever increasing cost of fuel, whatever type you use, it is essential to insulate your home this not only helps to keep it dry and warm, but also helps to keep your heating costs down. Fit draught-proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors and your loft should have at least 11 inches (270mm) of insulation.

Now is the Time to get a Heating Health Check

During Gas Safety Week, 16th 22nd September, timely advice was given by TrustMark and its scheme operator B&ES (the Building & Engineering Services Association) on the importance of boiler safety and efficiency.

Gas is the most commonly used fuel for home heating systems across the country and, although completely safe in principle, a lack of routine maintenance means that around 50 people still needlessly die every year with hundreds more made seriously ill from preventable carbon monoxide poisoning.

Roderick Pettigrew, Chief

An interesting conversation piece! This highly unusual marble wash basin inset with various fossils, mined in South Africa, would make a unique addition to any bathroom.

For sale at Quillon House Antiques in Bruton, at £1000.

Executive of B&ES, one of the first organisations to be appointed a TrustMark scheme operator when it was launched in 2006, commented, ‘Regrettably, too many homeowners rely on old or inefficient boilers or heaters and research shows that 1 in 4 gasfired appliances in use around the UK are potentially dangerous.

More than two thirds of reported cases of carbon monoxide

poisoning are connected to central heating appliances and half of these are older central heating boilers.

‘If your boiler or other gas appliances like a cooker or gasfired heater are more than three years old or have been infrequently serviced in the past, we strongly advise that you contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to have them inspected

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House & Home and serviced.

‘Whilst safety is the first priority, with energy bills at stubbornly high levels and the average household dual fuel bill now around £1300, it really is false economy to forgo what

should be an annual service and safety check – a well maintained boiler burns up to 10% less fuel than a poorly maintained one and that can mean very important energy savings.’

Stuart Carter, Head of

Marketing at TrustMark, said: ‘Gas Safety Week is a great campaign and a critically important message to drive home to all homeowners. We would advise anyone who is thinking of having any work carried out on

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their boilers to only use reputable firms they know or that have been assessed and qualified. By employing a TrustMark registered heating engineer consumers have assurance that the work will be carried out to a consistently high professional standard and will be done in the best way to ensure a safe job.’

To find your nearest TrustMark heating engineer visit http://www.trustmark.org.uk For home heating and energy saving advice visit: http://www. heatinghelpline.org.uk.

Consumers urged to order winter heating oil now

The trade association for the oil distribution industry FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) is urging consumers to order their heating oil now for winter and has launched its Buy Oil Early Campaign together with the Government, ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England), Citizens Advice Bureau, and Consumer Futures.

By planning ahead, consumers can avoid the pitfalls of ordering

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SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport Tel: 01458 251476 www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk 40 THE VISITOR October 2013

Are you shopping around for the best price for your curtains, blinds, soft furnishings or fabric?

Don't pass us by ... give us a try!

Bring us proof of the product and price you have been quoted for and we will do our best to match it!

19 High West St. Dorchester, DT1 1UW Tel: 01305 250990 22 Christchurch St. West, Frome, BA11 1EE Tel: 01373 465678 stevebanefabrics.com

House & Home heating oil for homes and businesses at the last minute, when the distribution may already be disrupted by increased demand and cold weather, and prices may be higher.

Energy Minister Michael Fallon, who is backing the Buy Oil Early Campaign, says: ‘I welcome the launch of this

campaign. The message is simple: stock up on heating oil before the winter leaves you out in the cold.

Previous severe winters show it’s better to order early when suppliers have spare delivery capacity.

Delaying risks longer delivery times especially if cold weather increases demand and disrupts

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deliveries, particularly in remote and rural parts of the country.

The new Code of Practice and Customer Charter by FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) is a welcome commitment from the industry to engage with consumers on a fair and consistent basis and implement best practice to raise

standards.

I would also encourage households to save money on heating by using the Government’s Green Deal, which offers a way to pay for energy efficiency measures such as condensing oil boilers and insulation through savings on their energy bills. Customers on a

for all your tool hire requirements including Mini digger hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, Sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221

sEWInG MAchInE sErVIcE cEnTrE Repairs & Servicing To All Makes - Domestic & Industrial Collection and Delivery Available

Embroidery Engineering Services Suppliers of Computerised Embroidery Machines Telephone: 01963 350068 • Mobile: 07947 725315 Email: robert_churches@hotmail.com UniT 8, Torbay indUsTrial EsTaTE CasTlE Cary ba7 7dW

THE VISITOR October 2013 41

House & Home low income or in a hard-toinsulate property may be able get additional support through the Energy Company Obligation.’

There are other measures

consumers can adopt to make buying heating oil more efficient and cost-effective. The Citizens Advice Bureau can provide people with information on accessing any

benefits and support they’re entitled to. And the website www.oilsave.org.uk lists local distributors so consumers can ring round suppliers in their area

need a new conservatory? replacement windows or doors? contact

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42 THE VISITOR October 2013

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to find the best deal and work out a suitable payment plan.

Mark Askew, Chief Executive of FPS, says: ‘There are steps people can take if they’re worried about the cost of oil, and by planning ahead for this winter payments can be spread across the year.

‘Cold weather can arrive without warning and if your oil supplies run low, you may not have enough to keep you warm while you wait for more to arrive.

This is particularly true in rural areas where distribution can be delayed by cold weather.

‘While it’s easy to put off ordering oil for heating until the temperatures actually plummet, especially as we’ve enjoyed such a long warm summer, it’s so important that consumers take action now and don’t leave it until it’s too late.’

FPS’s Buy Oil Early Campaign is currently underway, encouraging consumers to prepare for winter today by buying their heating oil now when demand and cost are both lower.

KITCHEN TALK Attention to Detail

ANY NEW KITCHEN will feel refreshing in your home, but you need to know that the feeling of a ‘dream kitchen’ will stand the test of time. The amount a new kitchen can enhance or change your lifestyle is unlimited, but you need to know that you’re investing in a high-quality haven, so do take your time and carry out plenty of research.

Handleless kitchens are usually chosen to achieve a modern and streamlined look, although it is

House & Home possible to achieve a contemporary style kitchen with handles, or to make a handleless kitchen feel more homely and traditional using colour and more traditional materials. If you feel that you might want to update your kitchen a few years down the line, bear in mind a cabinet’s handles are far more easily interchangeable than entire cabinet doors.

Handleless kitchen ranges can even include a motorised ‘selfopening’ system, for that real quality feel.

Give your home a new look ...

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Update your suite with made-to-measure cushions with removeable covers

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also at: High Street, tisbury  01747 871178 (closed Wednesday)

THE VISITOR October 2013 43

House & Home You may be surprised how simple it can be to create a kitchen for people who are short, tall or even disabled without limiting any access.

Easy access storage solutions are a real benefit, but do take up more space. Floor-to-ceiling storage can help to make full use of the available space, but only if the whole cupboard is easily accessible, so it’s good to plan the kitchen around your own needs or restrictions.

The height of your appliances should also be considered.

Ovens and microwaves can be placed at eye level quite easily but most of us are accustomed to low-level dishwashers, which require bending down to use. It is now possible in some cases to

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If any small details niggle you in your new kitchen, this will only get worse over time so it’s worth investing the time, as well as money, into the finer points of your kitchen and giving lots of attention to detail.

Ask for help from your local Kitchen Specialists who should be able through experience to help you through the maze of things to consider, so that you end up with a stunning kitchen that both looks good and works well now, and for many years to come Sandra Fox, Intoto Kitchens, Yeovil.

put the dishwasher at an easyto-reach mid-level and use the lower storage for items used less frequently.

As a nation we are becoming more and more dependent on modern technology, not just for cooking but for gathering information and entertainment.

More and more people are choosing to install televisions, MP3 docking stations and even tablet computers into their kitchen but it’s important to consider if, what is cutting-edge today, will still be relevant in a few years. Apple recently changed the size and shape of the adapters for the new IPhone and IPad, rendering any built-in docking stations and chargers for the previous models virtually

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44 THE VISITOR October 2013

Tel: 01747 851476 • Fax: 01747 858996 shaftesbury@myhomemaker.co.uk www.myhomemaker.co.uk

Myakka achieves top ranking ethical performance

Myakka in Wincanton is celebrating success with an impressive top ranking in the latest furniture research completed by The Ethical Company Organisation. The research rates companies according to their commitment to the environment, animals and people and within the furniture sector, research also looks specifically at Rainforest Timber and wood sourcing policies of each of the companies.

Specialist fair-trade furniture retailer, Myakka received a top Ethical Company Index (ECI) score of 100 in the latest research, ahead of large high-street retailers such as Homebase, John Lewis and B&Q. William Sankey, Research Director from ECI said ‘We hope this latest batch of research will enable more ethical consumers to source their goods from the most responsible players in the furniture business. We particularly commend Myakka for their strong ethical performance.’

Myakka has been awarded the Ethical Accreditation for their corporate social responsibility since 2009 and earned their place in the Good Shopping Guide also. This leading directory provides detailed information on everything from banks to butter, washing machines to jeans to help consumers make informed decisions on shopping with a clear conscience.

Simon Whitehead, Founding Director of Myakka said ‘We are delighted to have received such a high ranking in the latest research. Consumers are becoming more aware of the sourcing of products and The Ethical Company Organisation provides clear guidance and external verification which is invaluable to consumers.’

Established in 1999, Myakka offers fair trade furniture and home accessories to customers across the UK through their mail order catalogue and ecommerce website. The company has been members of BAFTS (The British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers) since 2006 and source the majority of their exclusive lines directly from manufacturers in India, Thailand and Indonesia.

In response to consumer

House & Home awareness, this week also sees the launch of the inaugural BAFTS Campaign Week.

Running from 21-28 September,

the event is designed to raise awareness of over 150 BAFTS members selling fair trade products across the UK.

This Rangemaster cooker with its multi-function oven offers 7 functions for really flexible cooking - from crisping the base of your pizza to browning your favourite pasta dish. Buy a Rangemaster cooker at Homemaker in Shaftesbury before 14th December and you can purchase another Rangemaster appliance at half price - just in time for Christmas!

Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8PL Branches also at: WaRminsteR & BatH

Tel: 01747 851476 • Fax: 01747 858996 shaftesbury@myhomemaker.co.uk www.myhomemaker.co.uk

THE VISITOR October 2013 45

Needful Things

Needful Things of Castle Cary are approaching their 15th year in dazzling form! Their new layout across three departments has proved to be a great move over the last 12 months and their new Fabrics and Carpets showroom is more popular than ever! Choose fabrics from over 400 pattern books, choose carpets from trusted suppliers, Brintons, Penthouse, Mayfield and Crucial Trading;

choose cushions, chairs and lamps, mirrors and pictures to finish your design scheme and don't forget they sell Little Greene Paints and a wide range of beautiful wallpapers ... it's a one stop shop for all your home decor needs! Curtain and blind making, new and reupholstery completes their amazing service. Make sure you book a free measure and quote soon. Simply ring 01963 351352 and ask for the fabric department.

House & Home

Interiors with style!

visit our soft furnishings and interiors showrooms

 Fabrics from all leading designers  Curtains made to order  Bespoke sofas and chairs  Carpets and rugs  Paint by Little Greene  Wall coverings

... be inspired at ...

hIGh sTrEET, cAsTLE cArY, BA7 7An  01963 351352 www.needfulthings.uk.com

46 THE VISITOR October 2013

Wonderful fabrics from Romo bring a touch of romance to any bedroom.

See the full range at Needful Things of Castle Cary.

ARTS Mere Literary Festival 2013

The seventeenth mere Literary festival begins on the second monday of October as it has done since 1997. Varied and exciting literary events are planned for the week October 14th – 20th and a warm welcome awaits visitors to this small and attractive Wiltshire town.

The week’s line-up includes comedian Paul Kerensa, Tarquin Olivier (son of Sir Laurence) and author Damien Lewis who has topped the best-seller lists worldwide. Poet Chris mcCully gives a masterclass, and also gives a talk on the popular sport and pastime of fishing. He is the author of a number of books on fishing and many articles.

There’s advice on being an ebook writer from rr Gordon and children can bring mum and Dad along to meet award–winning Gillian Cross, author of the popular Demon Headmaster series. There are poetry readings, a biopic on the life of WW1 poet Ivor Gurney, the announcement of the winners in this year’s open poetry competition by poet rose flint, and much more.

A wide choice at prices you can afford and details of all events are on the mLf website www.merelitfest.co.uk or in the big green programme.

Tickets are now on sale either from mere Library (but not on monday morning or Wednesdays), or by phoning the organiser on 01747 860475, or by post with the booking form available from the programme & website.

The festival raises money for the mere & District Linkscheme, a registered charity No:1062328, whose volunteers provide medical transport and other assistance to ten parishes in the district.

Guys and Dolls

Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society present Guys and Dolls, at the Octagon theatre from Tuesday 8th October until Saturday 12th. Set in the colourful New York City underworld of the mid 20th century it has one of the greatest

A local Diary musical scores ever, with well known numbers such as Luck be a Lady Tonight; If I were a Bell; I’ve Never Been in Love Before; Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat; and the title song Guys and Dolls.

The Society is lucky to have attracted two young people who are experienced members of other groups, and have joined YAOS to take the lead roles in this show.

They are Lisa-marie read, playing Sergeant Sarah from the Salvation Army mission, who gets seduced by hustler Sky masterson, played by Ben Scott, who is currently landlord of the popular Great Lyde pub.

With just 6 performances, the Society expects a sell-out, so get your tickets from the Octagon Theatre now, call 01935 422884.

Barrington Court transformed for Somerset Art Weeks

The artistic makeover is complete and Somerset’s magnificent Barrington Court has been totally transformed by five brilliant and inspiring artists and makers using willow, paper, stone, leather and wood.

Make the Most is an initiative of Somerset Art Works, in partnership with the National Trust at Barrington Court and curated by Craftspace, and is a core element within the Somerset Art Weeks 2013 festival (21st September - 6th October 2013).

Laura Ellen Bacon’s vast and magnificent willow installation fills the house’s Old Kitchen while maeve Clancy’s expansive paperwork in the Great Hall tells the detailed history of the house and garden.

The expressive stone calligraphy of Thomas Appleton, the intricate digitally milled woodwork of Gary Allson and the sumptuous leatherwork of Laura Youngson Coll both redefine and augment the architectural space within this beautifully restored Tudor manor.

The Make the Most displays are available to view at Barrington Court, near Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 0NQ, until 31st October.

MERE LITERARY FESTIVAL 14th – 20th October

Paul Kerensa * Tarquin Olivier * Chris McCully Damien Lewis * RR Gordon * Gillian Cross * Rose Flint Pick up a programme or log on to ...

www.merelitfest.co.uk

Advance Tickets £5 • Book on 01747 860475

BRUTON

Durslade Farm.

THE TrANSfOrmATION of Durslade farm and its barns into an international centre for contemporary art is progressing fast, with opening planned for next year. Durslade, at the southern edge of the town on the road to Wincanton, had long been on the register of listed buildings at risk of decay, and the new use will not only conserve and renovate the structures but also create a significant number of jobs. It has already attracted a lot of interest from the national newspapers.

Back in march the Sunday Times published its list of the 101 best places to live in Britain – and Bruton was placed 19th.

Despite what the paper describes as the ‘scruffy one-way high street’ with a ‘soporific air’ it praises the town for the character of many of the properties, its good schools and convenient links to London, and promotes it to ‘cultured London weekenders and absconders’ who will appreciate the ‘achingly fashionable At the Chapel restaurant’ and the creation of a contemporary arts centre. It calls Bruton ‘a dollop of edgy cool in the countryside’.

Then in April a feature in The Guardian opened with ‘Bruton

seems, at first, a typical quaint English town with its scattering of antiques shops, posh school playing fields and narrow streets of old stone cottages ... but there is an unexpected undercurrent in this area of Somerset, of creativity and hippyish sub-culture. The big news this year is that the Hauser and Wirth gallery, which has branches in London and New York, is to open its third, in Bruton, next summer’. But the writer warns that although ‘this corner of the countryside has a bohemian edge ... there lurks a hint of a celebby, slightly smug, Notting Hill-set thing’.

And the Daily Telegraph, under the headline ‘a doyen of design sets the scene for a hip new gallery in deepest Somerset’, reported that Piet Oudolf, ‘without doubt the most famous garden designer in the world today’, is taking on the landscaping of the new Hauser and Wirth gallery including a meadow garden in the sloping field behind the property. It’s all part of gallery’s aim to be a destination for experiencing art, architecture and the Somerset landscape through exhibitions of contemporary art, events for local and national audiences and an

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BRUTON education programme.

I last explored this ‘dollop of edgy cool’ on a warm Tuesday afternoon in early September when the children were back at school and the ‘cultured London weekenders’ were back in the capital. The High Street was certainly soporific and none the worse for that. It is home to a broad range of independent retailers and services and is acquiring a growing reputation for its antiques dealers and specialist shops selling an eclectic variety of Victorian prints, memorabilia, curios and gifts. So a quiet afternoon was ideal for some leisurely window-shopping – and for looking above the shop fronts to admire the architectural character of many of the buildings.

Bruton’s perennial parking problem has been alleviated by the opening of a new free car park on the left opposite the church on Station road. As well as being just a short walk from Church Bridge and the High Street it is conveniently placed for the stores in the Old mill business units.

Here the Bruton Country Centre provides for the gardener, petowner, d-i-y dabbler and home improver and the Dovecote Gallery deals in antiques, interior accessories and picture framing.

Newly opened here is the Bean Shot shop selling coffee freshly roasted on the premises.

Australian owner Nick Law sources high-quality Arabica

Access to Bruton’s iconic dovecote is easier now that a car park has been formed off Park Wall.

beans from Central and South America and Ethiopia to prepare several distinctive blends of coffee which he is happy to sell in small quantities so that it is always fresh.

Beyond the shops, just before the railway bridge, is the new office of Gordon fry’s West End Garage which is located in the former goods yard next to the station. This impressive building

Quillon House antiques

16 HigH street , BrutoN  01749 812269  17 th / 18 th C. oak and Country Furniture  arms & armoury  equestrian Paintings  Valuations undertaken  antiques Purchased

Napoleonic French PreseNtatioN sword awarded to an artillery Captain, fine blue and gilded etched blade with ivory hilt: £5000

has been designed as an eyecatching Great Western railway signalbox with great attention being paid to the details. The decorative timber valance round the eaves, the finial on the roof apex, the lamp by the door and the GWr roundel embedded in the wall all add to the period charm, and I’m told that the inside has been kitted out with a signal frame and levers to help it appear authentic. It might not be ‘achingly fashionable’ but it’s certainly a unique and attractive addition to Bruton’s streetscape. from the new car park I drove a short distance out of town to take a look at another almost-asnew car park, formed last year

to provide easier access to Bruton’s iconic hilltop dovecote.

Previously visitors had to leave their cars on the narrow lane, Park Wall, that skirts the south side of the hill, but now there is a sizeable surfaced car park off Park Wall adjacent to the path that leads straight up to the dovecote. It’s worth the walk up to enjoy the panoramic views over the town from the top and to take a look inside the dovecote before continuing to drive round the hill to explore the western end of the High Street. Here, after a lengthy closure, Truffles restaurant and Bistro reopened under new ownership last year and is now looking quite continental with tables and chairs on the pavement. As well as lunches and dinners it is also open from 8.30am for continental breakfasts and morning coffee.

Bruton also attracted the attention of the Western Daily Press’s columnist Ned Halley in August, but the focus of his attention was not the arts but a pub, specifically the Bruton Castle at this end of the High Street. Describing it as ‘quirky and likeable’ he noted that it is clearly a young-people’s pub with a games room large enough to accommodate not just pool but a proper-sized ping-pong table as well. ‘You get a proper welcome in what is clearly a much-liked community pub,’ he wrote, presumably seeing no sign of the ‘slightly smug Notting Hill-set’ in the bar. He recommends Bruton as a town well worth a visit. ‘Take an evening stroll round Bruton and pop into the Castle,’ he says. ‘You’ll find it’s all something a lot more interesting than the usual.’ He’s right.

Roger Richards.

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Education MattErs Why choose Bruton School for Girls?

We are passionate about, and experts in, girls’ education! We believe in offering every girl a well-rounded education in an environment with the space to inspire, challenge, encourage and support her to develop her full potential to become the amazing person she can be in this fast changing world. We want your child to grow with us, learn with us, make friends for life and enjoy her time with us. We encourage her to develop intellectual curiosity, selfesteem, respect and care for others, independence and excellence in all she does, with a real love for life.

Established in 1900 and set in beautiful English countryside in Somerset, overlooking Glastonbury Tor, Bruton School for Girls is a day school for girls and boys aged 2 – 7 and a day and boarding school for girls aged 7 – 18.

The school is one of only 27 schools in the country and the only one in the South West to

hold the Eco Schools Ambassador Award, demonstrating green issues and sustainability embedded into the ethos of the school.

We offer excellence in education and superb pastoral care with core values. Not only do we add value in terms of a wide variety of extra-curricular activities with excellent facilities within the school, enhancing creativity through community art and eco links, we also add value in terms of excellence in academic results, adding on average, across every subject, approximately one grade to each girl’s predicted performance and the vast majority go on to their first choice university.

Visit www.brutonschool.co.uk for further information. If you believe what we believe, we would love to meet with you. Please contact: admissions@bruton school.co.uk or Tel: 01749 814400 to arrange an appointment. Do you like being social? Like us on facebook – ‘Bruton School for Girls’; follow us on Twitter ‘@brutonschool’.

To rEgiSTEr your inTErEST, ArrAngE An AppoinTmEnT, or viSiT onE of our

opEn DAyS plEASE conTAcT uS :

T: 01749 814400 • E: admissions@brutonschool.co.uk www.brutonschool.co.uk Sunny Hill • BruTon • SomErSET • BA10 0nT

Record Scholarships Results for Perrott Hill

Anyone who has read the ‘Good Schools Guide’ will be aware that Perrott Hill pupils ‘regularly win a good spread of scholarships’ but this year the children have, quite simply, excelled themselves. 2013 has seen 22 awards offered to the 31 pupils in Year 8; the greatest number since the schools inception in 1946.

These record-breaking results have been achieved in a number of disciplines comprising Academic, music, Choral, Drama, Art and Sport; and they have been awarded by a wide range of senior schools including Canford, Sherborne, Sherborne Girls, Blundell’s, Dauntsey's, milton Abbey, King’s College, Taunton, King’s Bruton and Queen’s College Taunton. Whilst this is a particularly impressive year, it reflects a strong upturn in scholarship success in recent times and the 117 children leaving the school in the last four years have secured 63 awards to a vast range of schools across the country.

Drama is a popular part of the curriculum at Perrott Hill School.

The phrase ‘Time and Space for a full Education’ runs through everything that happens at Perrott Hill. As one would expect, this is delivered from an academic perspective but the extra-curricular life at the school is also hugely important and is clearly reflected in the range of scholarships awarded.

Games take place every afternoon, the majority of our children play a musical instrument and both Art and Drama are enormously popular throughout the school. Every bit as importantly, pupils are given great personal care to develop and achieve their full potential before they step on to life at their next school.

To find out more about Perrott Hill or to arrange a visit please visit our website www.perrott hill.com call 01460 72051 or email admissions@perrotthill.com

Autumn Term Open Mornings Friday 11th and Saturday 12th October A boarding and day preparatory school for girls & boys from 3 - 13 Perrott Hill, North Perrott, Crewkerne, Somerset, TA18 7SL Visit us at perrotthill.com or call us on 01460 72051 THE VISITOr October 2013 49

Education MattErs Strode College Open Evening Choose the courses and college that’s right for you

Jason Jones, sports studies lecturer at Strode College, Street.

Strode College in Street is inviting year 11 pupils and their parents to an Open Evening on Wednesday 23rd October between 6pm 8.30pm.

Choosing what to study after GCSEs is an important decision.

Year 11s and their parents need the right information to help them make an informed choice about what is best for them now and for their future success.

James Staniforth, Principal of Strode College, said: ‘The best way to get a real feel for schools and colleges is to have a look around, meet the teachers and current students, and ask some important questions. for example does the school or college offer the course or mix of courses that you want to study? Do the teachers specialise in teaching 16-18 year olds? A recent Ofsted report will tell you a lot.

‘There’s a lot to think about, but a visit to the school or college, combined with good advice, should help you make the right choice.

Strode College offers fantastic opportunities for all students and that is why we are one of the very best colleges in the country.

If you would like to visit Strode

College you can simply turn up on the open evening, or pre-register by visiting the website: www.strode-college.ac.uk

Lydford House Day Nursery

Building upon the success of Northover House Day Nursery in Ilchester, Keith and Emma Wilmore opened Lydford House Day Nursery at Lydford on fosse, conveniently situated with a large car park for dropping off and picking up. A large Victorian house, with an enclosed garden provides the ideal setting for the care of children in a home from home family environment.

The nursery is owned and run by staff with a wealth of experience and knowledge of the needs of young children. Their ethos is to have fun and play through structured and child initiated activities whilst learning respect for each other and their surroundings. The children participate in real life experiences including gardening and cooking.

Home cooked food is provided, with a hot meal at lunch time giving all the children and staff the opportunity to sit down and eat together, encouraging social skills and healthy eating. for further information or to arrange a visit please telephone 01963 240100 or visit the website www.lydfordhousedaynursery.co.uk

Lydford House Day Nursery Lydford on Fosse 01963 240100

FREE PLACES FoR CHILDREN AGED 3 & 4 A family run nursery registered for children from three months to school age.

A large Victorian house with an enclosed garden conveniently situated with ample parking.

Highly qualified staff provide excellent care and education in a home from home environment.

Cycle-Babble In 2001 Brendt Barbur was riding through the streets of New York when he was hit from his bike. forced into the path of a bus by a van door opening, Barbur, an actor from California, fell to the ground in the middle of the Big Apple. ‘The bus driver came over and stared at me and didn't say a word. The man in the van didn't say a word. I felt a lack of respect and wanted to do something to 50 THE VISITOr October 2013

advocate bike use, but I didn't know how to do it,’ he told the Guardian in 2008. ‘I'm into art, I'm into film, so that's what I did.’

And so was born the international Bicycle film festival (Bff).

Later that year the very first Bff was launched in the same city. It was an instant hit with sell out shows and national press coverage. fast forward 12 years and today the Bff is a truly

international affair.

The 2013/14 edition of the festival will make its way to no less than 30 cities across the globe. from Basel to Buenos Aires, Helsinki to Hong Kong, the Bff will set up stall, show a diverse range of films, encourage debate at cycling symposiums, get people out racing on the track, even throw in a game of bike polo or two. All in one big celebration of the bicycle lifestyle.

The Bff comes to the UK in early October with three days in

London. It's the tenth year that the festival has hit these shores and a typically diverse offering is on the cards.

Sixty films will be shown across 10 different programmes. from shorts lasting only a few minutes to feature films lasting over an hour and half. In mOONrIDEr, director Daniel Dencik follows 18year-old rasmus Quaade. Billed as Denmark's next big thing on two-wheels, the film tails Quaade as he bases his 2011 season around the world championships

Leisure & Tra vel that were held in Denmark's capital Copenhagen. Billed as ‘an honest and heart breaking picture of [the] extreme and lonely life of a championship rider’ moonrider is noted as one of the highlights of the festival. ‘I don't have a religion,’ Quaade tells the viewer, ‘but something inside me that tells me to be a rider.’

Other features include CICLO, a tale of nostalgia, life, and the ticking hands of passing time as Arturo and Gustavo martínez mcNaught retrace pedal stokes

they first made in 1956 when they set out on a 5,600km long bicycle ride from their home in central mexico to Toronto, armed with only $100 and a couple of old racing bikes.

Short films include rYOKOU in which Australian racing cyclist Shane Perkins, a world champion on the track, talks about his life whilst racing the Keirin in Japan, and Urban Birds - a look into the daily lives of three female London bicycle couriers.

It all adds up to a simple celebration of a life on two wheels.

Whether it is as a wannabe racer, a successful world champion, a life-changing adventure or an every-day occupation, the bike plays a central part in all the film's subjects. And few would argue that their lives aren't all that richer for it.

‘Being apart of this global bicycle community has been a pretty incredible thing,’ Barbur told bikenyc earlier this year.’

Bff keeps it simple. We celebrate bikes through film, art and music.

Outside Catering Wedding?

Anniversary?

Christmas Party? ● Traditional Hog Roasts (choice of meats) ● Buffets to suit all inc. delicious homemade pies, quiches & vegetarian dishes

Carnival time is here again. This dear little chap took part in the Mere Carnival. Please support your local Carnival by going along and giving generously.

Money raised goes to local charities and good causes.

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And I know it’s been directly responsible for getting people on bikes.’

If you fancy joining the celebration, the Bicycle film festival takes place at London's Barbican Centre from Oct 3rd – 6th. See: www.bicyclefilm festival.com for the festival's full schedule and information on how to get tickets. The festival also comes to Bristol on 19th October.

Schedule details were unavailable at the time of writing so do keep an eye on the website.

Giles Belbin.

A welcome return of the Maasai Warriors

The Parish Church of St. Peter & St. Paul Wincanton are thrilled to be hosting a concert, by the much acclaimed Osiligi Troupe of maasai Warriors on Tuesday 29th October 2013 at 7.00pm.

The purpose of the tour is to

raise money for families of the Troupes performers and other members of their community, which is a small settlement some 25 miles South West of Nairobi, Kenya.

The tours have brought about a huge revival of the community’s fortunes. At the time of the first tour in 2002, all the families in the area were destitute and without hope. This brought about the name ‘Osiligi’ being Swahili for ‘Hope’. from total poverty, so much has grown i.e. the building of corrugated houses, instead of huts made from cow dung, the introduction of fresh clean water in three areas, the building of a community centre/church, solar lamps to do away with the dangers of kerosene and finally and most notably the building of a new school.

The Troupes performances are

WINCANTON PARISH CHURCH The Osiligi

Troupe of ...

MAASAI WARRIORS Tuesday 29 th October, 7pm

Tickets: £8 Adult, £6 Senior, £4 Child From: Parish Office  01963 824503 or Wincanton Town Hall ✸ An event not to be missed!

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

By John Osborne • Answers can be found on page 55 1.

Name the duo who sang ‘I Got You Babe’ in 1965

2.

Charlie Dore once sang about a ‘Pilot of the …’ What?

3.

Who declared he was ‘Hot in the City’ in 1988?

4.

Who had ‘Constant Craving’ in the early 1990’s?

5.

In what year did ‘Coldplay have a hit with ‘Yellow’?

6.

‘Madness’ went ‘One Step… ‘ What? in 1979

7.

Who had a No.1 in 1990 with ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’?

8.

Name BOTH bands headed by Jimmy Sommerville in the 1980’s.

9.

Name the band behind the instrumental hit ‘Machine Gun’ from 1974

10. ‘Girl’s School’ was the ‘B’ side of this ‘Wings’ hit.

Name the ‘A’ side.

MU

SI

C

FOR THE

M

ON

TH

September 28th NO FIXED ABODE - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 28th ALEX ARCHER (guitarist / vocalist) - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi 29th TIM BASSETT (4.30pm - 8pm) - Marston Inn, Marston Magna October 4th BARRY PAULL (Elvis) - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 5th REAL DEAL - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 11th SWEET F A - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil An Advert 12th TONED ‘F’ - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon in the 12th INDIGO BLUE - Phoenix, Gillingham pub pAgeS 13th ELVIS 56 (5pm - 9pm) - Marston Inn, Marston Magna enSureS 18th SEEDY CASES - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 19th ELVIS 65 - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas A Free 26th TAMMY LLOYD - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon MentiOn 26th FAT MARROW BLUES BAND - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil here

THE VISITOr October 2013 51

stunning, leaving every audience, totally enthusiastic having enjoyed an unforgettable experience. The singing and movement, like the maasai’s way of life, are in perfect harmony and their jumping, for which they are famous, is mind boggling!! The performance is fully narrated and is suited to all ages, whether five or ninety five. It is a wonderful evening and not to be missed, an opportunity to experience and enjoy the diverse culture of the maasai.

Tickets: £8 Adult, £6 Senior, £4 Children are available from the Parish Office Tel: 01963 824503 or Wincanton Town Hall.

Sherborne Castle Autumn Colours

Sherborne Castle’s popular Autumn Colours weekend is on 26th & 27th October 2013. Entry to the gardens is only £3.50 per adult with children under 16 free during this special weekend.

Take a leisurely stroll through acres of lakeside gardens; marvel at the spectacular colours of autumn all around you and reflected in the lake ... before taking a light lunch or afternoon tea in the delightful tea rooms.

This tranquil location is fabulous for walking and watching a host of wildlife on the lake and in the adjacent grounds. It’s a perfect

setting to relax, and for a picnic too!

The gardens and pleasure grounds surrounding the 50-acre lake form a magnificent ‘Capability’ Brown landscape, with sweeping lawns, borders and majestic specimen trees.

Delightful walks lead round the lake to garden features such as raleigh’s Seat, the Cascade and the folly. Shorter walks lead you to the walled garden, the Ginkgo Lawn and the Orangery, next to the boathouse and pier where there are wonderful views of the medieval castle ruins.

And for those visitor’s that have not been inside the castle

before why not discover the fascinating castle built by Sir Walter raleigh in 1594 and its great stories?

The Castle’s state rooms reflect a glorious variety of decorative styles from the great periods of English history; besides displaying fine furniture, family portraits and superb porcelain representing the tastes of the Digby family for 400 years. In the Castle’s cellars raleigh’s kitchen and a museum is on display featuring relics from the Civil War, fascinating documents from the archive, family curiosities and a collection of fossils.

All in all a great day out!

GARDENING GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park THE AUTUmNAL EQUINOx just slipped past us; did you notice it? Day length was exactly the same as night, 12 hours of

each. The remarkable thing about the equinox to a nonastrophysicist like me is that the days and nights are of equal

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

length all over our little planet, not just where we live! How that can be is in itself truly remarkable. I shall have to google it to find out how and why, although I do know it is to do with the earth's axis which in spring and autumn is at right angles to the earth's rotation.

Sunrise and sunset are due east and due west respectively.

The autumn equinox marks the

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ReCyCling FOR The enViROnMenT

beginning of autumn. As a gardener I am acutely aware of the shortening days and lengthening nights, little chance to get anything done after work and totally reliant on a bit of good weather at the weekend. There is always something that needs to be done and the older I get the more there is. Of course that may be due to me getting slower! my garden has matured and parts could really do with clearing out and replanting. The autumn is the perfect time to do that while everything is still visible but growth has slowed up.

Herbaceous perennials do benefit from lifting, splitting and replanting. New plants of all hardy sorts will root quicker in autumn as they respond to the warm moist soil and they will

alan dodge Bsc

GARDENING invariably get away quicker in spring. The exception would be any half hardy or tender varieties which are best left until spring.

Plant of the Month Heuchera

The genus Heuchera is made up of herbaceous perennial plants of the family Saxifragaceae, all native to North America. Common names include alumroot and coral bells. They have palmately lobed leaves on long petioles, and a thick, woody rootstock. The genus was named after Johann Heinrich von Heucher (1677–1746), who happened to be an 18th-century German physician. There are approximately 37 species growing in varied habitats, ranging from coastal to desert. Hybridisation between species is common which gives us an enormous range of colours and shapes for garden use.

They are delightful plants, for planting to brighten up any part of the garden; they can be grown in winter baskets and containers for placing on the patio at any time of the year.

GRA nd to scarif S S & B R U u ro g h g u TING ro 160 plan ying, orcha S H C U T T I ta N ROTAVA . Tel: 07659 550 rd s d Tel: 0 tions, play s, paddock G seed be ing fie 7659 s 55016 lds et , 0 c. hig h lift MI NI DI GG IN G an d 60 01 55 9 65 07 l: Te dumper.

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an eye open for vine weevil grubs which will burrow into the thick rootstocks when grown in the same pot for a long time. fresh compost and replanting regularly keeps them in the best condition.

With a bewildering range of cultivars with coloured leaves and flowers to pick from, the gardener is spoiled for choice. many of these have been developed recently, adding to the popularity of this genus of plants.

Heucheras can be grown in full sun or partial shade in soil that has had well rotted manure or compost added prior to planting.

They are not attacked by slugs or snails, unlike Hostas, but keep

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Wheathill Lane • Milborne Port • DT9 5Ey Tel / Fax: 01963 251500 Open: 9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday and ... 10am – 4pm Sunday

THE VISITOr October 2013 53

GARDENING The most important jobs this month will be clearing leaves off the lawns as a blanket of dead leaves kills off the grass. If you do that they will rot down

quite quickly making an excellent soil improver.

Cut back perennials that have died back and that do not carry attractive seed heads.

Tidy up the garden! ★ Chainsaws ★ Blowers ★ Shredders ★ Vacuums Excellent choice, sensible prices ...

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

Telephone 01747 840752

54 THE VISITOr October 2013

Overgrown clumps should be lifted, split and replanted.

Any tender plants must be moved to a light frost free place if you intend keeping them until next year.

Lawns can be improved at this time. Bare patches repaired with new turf, a low nitrogen, high phosphate feed strengthens grass roots, and new lawns can be laid. Grass seed needs a warm soil to germinate and get going before winter, with the exception of a new sort from grass seed producers DLf Trifolium. The seed is called 'Any Time' and will germinate at 3ºC; it contains a blend of ryegrass and red fescue that give it fast germination at low temperatures and good resistance to wear and tear.

Climbing roses can be pruned now, and I usually trim back taller bush roses to prevent windrock over winter then give them a proper pruning in spring.

In the vegetable garden, harvest is almost done. There are a few crops that can be started now with overwintering broad beans sown in situ. A fleece or cloche cover will provide insulation in colder areas, as well as protection from pigeons.

Winter lettuce, carrots and peas can still be sown in cold frames, but only in mild areas.

Plant out spring cabbages they will also need protection from pigeons. Then garlic cloves and autumn planted onion sets can be finished to give a crop in early to mid-summer next year.

In our area, green manures can still be sown until the middle of the month.

When clearing old pea and bean plants, simply cut off the tops for the compost heap, and dig the roots into the soil. They return valuable nitrogen to the earth, acting as a natural fertiliser.

October is a good time for digging over vacant areas of the vegetable plot, as the approaching cold weather will help to improve the soil structure by breaking down large clumps of clay into crumbly particles.

the end bit...

PAPERCHASE

HAVING BEEN BEmUSED by some of the intriguing advertisements that had found their way into our local papers – I’ve mentioned them in recent issues – I have started reading the adverts with more than my usual interest.

Here are extracts from two that appeared in the 6th September issue of the Blackmore Vale Magazine. The Unicorn Inn at Bayford was offering ‘Buy 1 get 1 free on 8oz sirloin steak with ships, peas and trimmings’, but I foresee problems in sailing them home over Bayford Hill. And the friends of Wincanton Community Hospital were promoting a garden party at the Otter Garden Centre with ‘Tickets £10 to include hog roast, desert and glass of wine’.

Presumably it’s a sandy garden.

What I can’t tell you is whether these spelling errors originated with the advertisers or whoever typeset them at the magazine. But they illustrate yet again the need to resurrect the long-gone role of proofreader.

I see that the BVM has at last got round to advertising for a new editor to replace fanny Charles

who ‘retired’ at the end of June.

Since then the acting editor has been fiona Dart. The advert in the 13th September issue talks of ‘a unique opportunity to drive the editorial team of the highly successful Blackmore Vale and Stour & Avon magazines ... regarded as the bible of the communities in Dorset, South Somerset and South West Wiltshire’ and calls for ‘a journalist with a vision for the future – combining strong editorial leadership with an ability to develop commercial platforms’ but doesn’t mention the remuneration package. Will someone local apply, I wonder, and if they do, will they get appointed?

I’ll watch with interest.

The front page story in the 4th September issue of the Western Daily Press reported on a study revealing that an increase in violent crime is making people too scared to go for a walk in areas around their own homes. I’ve no quarrel with the prominence given to the story, but I’m less than happy with what was written by reporter Jeff Wells.

Like this: ‘The increase in violent crime had the biggest affect on people walking to work and to the shops’. And this: ‘researchers factored in the affects of weather and the layout of the individual areas’. As a journalist mr Wells should know that the noun is ‘effect’ not ‘affect’, which is a verb meaning ‘to have an effect on’. And he can’t blame his error on the typesetter because later in his report he mentions that ‘policies that help reduce the amount of violent crime in society can have positive effects well beyond the direct effects of

Sudoku

by

T. M.

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

fewer victims of crime’. most of page 2 of the 16th September issue was devoted to a lengthy explanation from the editor of why ‘from today, the Western Daily Press will cost 60p, an increase of 5p’. What he doesn’t mention is that it’s an increase of just over 9% – a strange omission given that his paper invariably quotes other people’s price rises in percentage terms. for the extra money he says that readers will get more pages, more supplements and ‘while adding hugely to the value of the Western Daily Press we’ve redoubled our efforts to improve the quality of the content we offer readers, with the emphasis placed squarely on accuracy’. Not before time, some might say, especially those who spotted the strange item in the 21st August issue, pictured below.

Chronicler.

Answers to pop music quiz on page 51 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

‘Sonny and Cher’ ‘Airwaves’ Billy Idol K.D.Lang 2000 ‘Beyond’ Sinead O’Conner ‘Bronski Beat’ and ‘Communards’ 9. ‘Commodores’ 10. ‘Mull of Kintyre’

Solution to September

Sudoku

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

THE VISITOr October 2013 55

Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG 30p per word (£5 minimum) - pre-payment essential If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment



Classified Ads

PHone - a - Firm Fires/Chimneys

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴ Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk NAmE ........................................................................................................................................................................

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

ADDrESS .................................................................................................................................................................

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

Mobile Homes

MOBILE HOMES

From £1000 • Large choice of sizes

Wanted ReDUnDAnT MOTOR MOWeRS, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

COinS & COin COlleCTiOnS, books, maps, prints, paintings. home visits. Cash paid. Tel: 01225 793575 or 07754 058850.

DELIVERY ARRANGED Big Sales Site Open 7 Days • 2 miles west of Shaftesbury

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

Storage STORAge for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

T.V. Rental T.V. RenTAl - long or short term, domestic & commercial, up to 50inch plasma. h. R. hodge. Tel: 01460 240645.

To Let BRUTOn, 40ft storage container £130 per month, 24hr access, flexible terms. Tel: 07973 342047, 07970 024926.

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.

DAVe BUyS All TyPeS OF TOOlS, bygones and collectables. Daves Tools Tel: 01935 428975.

GUNS WANTED

By Registered Firearms Dealer Rifles • Shotguns Air Rifles • Air Pistols Any Condition We Collect in Any Area

Tel: 07970 742471

Passport Photographs PASSPORTS - PASSPORTS PASSPORTS and i.D. Any legislative size. Any time to suit you. easy parking.

Tel: graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

Mobile Bars / Catering hARRy’S MOBile BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk QUiCKSilVeR MAil outside bar facilities for any occasion. Call Pete on 07779 306751.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

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

Services GOOD POTATOES

Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices

Anchor Hill Service Station WinCAnTOn 01963 32609

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 56 THE VISITOr October 2013

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

TV & Radio Aerials DAVE PARMITER AERIALS TV AeRiAl SeRViCe SATelliTe / ViDeO SySTeMS CCTV SySTeMS - PeRSOnAl SeRViCe

Tel: YEOVIL (01935) 422088 or mobile 07850 405433 nO CAll-OUT ChARge

NOVEMBER DEADLINE

Monday 21st October  01963 351256

PHone - a - Firm

Electrical Contractors

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

Roofing

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

SLATiNG & TiLiNG SpeCiALiSTS

Specialists in period and listed properties

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

Security

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

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

Plastering

Bourton roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ESt imat ES

 01747 840064

... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk

East Lydford 01963 240185 or Mobile 07811 211586

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Reaching over 60,000 readers

Shouldn’t you be advertising here?

Clock Repairs CLOCk REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

The Visitor can now be read online:

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Communications

Denture Repairs

DENTURE REPAIRS While You Wait Collection & Delivery Denture Advice Mr. C. Dunn

Registered Dental Technician

01749 812585 www.dunndental.co.uk

WESTLINE COMMUNICATIONS Business Telecom Specialist For all your telecom needs For free, friendly and professional advice call ...

John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

THE VISITOr October 2013 57

PHone - a - Firm Your Guide to Local Services Oven Cleaning

Maintenance and Repairs U CAN’T I CAN PAUL CHEDzOy Property & Garden Maintenance

• • • • •

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

 01935 472669 ... or

• • • •

07884 345511

email: ucantican07@aol.com

Trading for over 6 years CuSTOMER REFEREnCES AvAilABlE

Builders SOmeRSeT CleaNiNg SeRviCeS Established 2004

● Domestic Cleaning ● Commercial Cleaning ● Holiday Let Change-overs Regular Cleans and One-offs Professional and Efficient Service

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Monday 21st October  01963 351256

• Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling • Painting & Decorating • Electrical Contracting

The Visitor can now be read online:

NOVEMBER DEADLINE

Competitive Prices ✳ No VAT ✳ No job too big or too small

Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTriES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG to arrive by Monday 21st October.

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of the Visitor - please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

2

3

4

5

9

13

6

7

8

10

11

12

14

15

18

 01963 440256 / 07974 844682

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Prize Crossword No. 324

1

• Renovations & Extensions FrienDLY & • Roofing + Carpentry reLiABLe • Plumbing & Heating SerViCe

www.misteroven.co.uk

 01458 201100

19

16

17

20

24 hour emergency call out • email: hoddaz@hotmail.com

Across

Put together morning donkey. [5] Composer alters roles for unmarried men. [9] 9. Treatments for the artist with crusted foods. [9] 10. Part-edit tomorrow’s news: the same again! [5] 11. Down and still abed? [3,2] 12. Extremes of alarm finish with workers short on time. Is that a change? [9] 13, 15. Twice the value of one in a bush: Possession better than expectation. [1,4,2,3,4] 18. As if lacking confidence, it mildly adjusts, losing fifty. [7] 20. Stir wry beer to find its source.

[7] 21. Organise madly-wide compromise. [6-3] 23. Some shun duettist with the unexpected. [5] 25. Listener between the poles comes closer. [5] 26. Uneducated, ignores a Greek letter in place of first epistle. [9] 27. Eight, disturbed in byre, found small plant. [9] 28. Gas part of axe, nonsense! [5]

22

23

24

2.

4.

26

5.

27

58 THE VISITOr October 2013

8.

14.

16.

17.

19.

20.

21.

22.

24.

Where to sit in a crowded train’s corridor, showing concern about some matter. [2,3,4] Game wear. [5] I am myself Diana fed at once.

[9] River knifed Brian as female chosen to administer will. [9] TT spring, perhaps? [3,6] Any wing ruffled and gaping. [7] Coming to a junction, one follows tree to a stabbing blade.

[7] Housing means change for the minister. [5] Sal returns before the Queen holding light gadget. [5] Doctor, hiding in private room, is a devil. [5]

Solution to Crossword 323

Down

3.

25

7.

1.

4.

1.

21

Contact JAMES CADE on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

FUlly QUAliFieD BUilDeR - eSTABliSheD 1973

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264

email: somersetcleaning@hotmail.co.uk www.somersetcleaningservices.com

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

Dave Hoddinott

Mister Oven

Cleaning

SERVICES

28

6.

Listen, insect! This is a servant.

[9] Skilled at running a small department. [5] MP dead set on disruption rushed madly. [9] Here is the intellect: That’s about it. [7] Lettuce that is over street: most homely? [7] Complete journalist has finished.

[5]

THE WINNER of our September Crossword 323 was Mrs. C. M. Wellstead of Charlton Mackrell, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at the Barton Studio Gallery, Barton St. David.

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