The Visitor Magazine Issue 350 January 2013

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 Add style and warmth to your home with a WOODBURNER

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

Issue 350 Christmas / January 2013

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SomerSet, famous for its cider orchards, is a firm believer in the custom of Wassailing. the idea behind this Pagan ritual is to protect the cider apple trees from evil spirits, thereby ensuring a good crop for the coming season.

Wassailing traditionally takes place on the 17th January when those wishing to participate gather at the chosen orchard to eat apple cake, drink mulled cider and crown a Wassailing Queen. one of the trees is then chosen to represent all the trees in the orchard and cider-soaked pieces of toast are placed on it and cider is poured around the tree’s base.

And here comes the noisy part! Shot guns are then fired into the branches at the top of the tree whilst buckets, pots and pans are beaten to ward off evil spirits and to wake the sleeping trees.

With this ritual completed the evening continues with music, merriment, food, and yes, you’ve guessed it, more cider!

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Wassail, derived from the Anglo Saxon WES HAL to be in good health; whole.

Inside features on: Coping with Bereavement; Last Minute Gift Guide; Season’s Greetings; Shaftesbury; Vale of Blackmore.

Plus regular features on: Antiques; Business; Gardening; House & Home; Leisure & Travel; Looking Good & Feeling Fine - A Healthy New Year; Motoring; Pubs; Wine & Dine.

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If you wish to be on our mailing list and receive a brochure please give us a call on 01935 423177 - over 8 holidays to choose from UK & Europe throughout the year.

SHOWS 2013 We are taking bookings for Priscilla Queen of the Desert Musical at Bristol Hippodrome Saturday 20th April – £49.50 Excellent seats for a fun show

JAnuAry

Sunday 13th – Half Day Mystery Tour **************** A £10.00 • OAP £9.00 Friday 15th – Monday 18th February Leaving Yeovil at 11.00am Mystery Weekend?

Sunday 27th – Mystery Tour * £145 * A £12.95 • OAP £11.95 A real favourite – a 3 day Leaving Yeovil at 9.00am Mystery Holiday,where only we know FeBruAry where you are going?!!

Includes entertainment & excursions Thursday 14th Valentine’s Day in London **************** A £16.00 • OAP / STuDenT £14.00 Friday 17th May – 20th May 2013 Leaving Yeovil at 7.00am Haworth 1940s Weekend Sunday 24th – Mystery Tour From £215 pp DBB A £12.95 • OAP £11.95 Weetwood Hall Hotel (4*) Leeds Leaving Yeovil at 9.00am Join us for a nostalgic weekend to We wish all our customers a commemorate 70th anniversary of Very Happy Christmas and look Dambuster Raids For more info forward to seeing you in 2013 on this holiday please call.

Call for information or to book

01935 423177

In Passing ...

I

lIkE Aachen. I like it so much that I have visited the city five times in as many years. Its location in western Germany close to the Belgian border makes it easily accessible via Eurostar to Brussels and onward by express train, a journey of a little over four hours from St Pancras. It is an extremely old settlement dating back to Roman times but its earliest surviving building, the Granus tower, was built around AD788 and part of its magnificent cathedral dates from AD805.

The town hall next to the cathedral was completed in 1349 and has an impressive frontage overlooking the huge market place fringed with historic houses and shops.

Two-thirds of Aachen was destroyed in World War II but its historic centre escaped the worst of the ravages and has been beautifully restored.

A visit last winter coincided with Aachen’s Christmas Market. The entire market place and adjoining squares were covered with hundreds of small wooden kiosks full of festive gifts, decorations and foods, and from mid-afternoon all were ablaze with multi-coloured lights. The crowds were out in force, music was blaring from many of the stalls, beer and bratwurst were being consumed in quantity, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves – but not buying very much in the way of gifts. As the market lasts for several weeks perhaps they were leaving their purchases till the last minute.

Apparently the Christmas Market is a German tradition and all the cities and large towns have one. Now, it seems, the English are adopting the tradition. A holiday brochure received recently tried to entice me to ‘enjoy the Frankfurt Christmas Market, the largest in the Uk’ for four days – in Birmingham! And closer to Visitorland ‘the streets and squares between Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths are filled with 130 chalets selling unique handmade gifts, decorations and food items’ at the Bath Christmas Market.

Which is well and good, except that every item bought from a Christmas Market – or from an out-of-town superstore, or by mail order or through the internet – threatens to be one less item bought from our local shops which at Christmas are packed with an enormous variety of high-quality goods and lots of bargains. And if a purchase from a Christmas Market doesn’t live up to expectations you can’t take it back and complain after the market trader has gone.

The best way, indeed the only way, to keep trade local and protect local shops, is to use them. Otherwise we’ll lose them.

And if you’re tempted to spend time at a Christmas Market, make it a real traditional German one like the one in Aachen. It’s an awesome once-in-a-lifetime experience, but once was certainly enough for me.

NN.

Ltd.

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

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

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

Advertising Deadlines

CONTENTS

February edition published Thursday 31st January Deadline Monday 21st January

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to customs

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.

ArtWorK Artwork & design by our production department and photographs taken by our photographers are the copyright of Badger Publications.

The Visitor is compiled in Quark Xpress (Apple Macintosh).

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

For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 43 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 6 BUSINESS - 4 COPING with BEREAVEMENT - 8 CROSSWORD - 46 CYCLE BABBLE - 29 GARDENING - 39 HOUSE & HOME - 32 LAST MINUTE GIFT GUIDE - 21 LEISURE & TRAVEL - 28 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE A HEALTHY NEW YEAR - 30 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MOTORING - 38 MUSIC for the MONTH - 28 PAPERCHASE - 42 PHONE-A-FIRM - 44 PUBS - 16 SEASON’S GREETINGS - 25 SHAFTESBURY - 13 THEY SAY - 20 VALE of BLACKMORE - 10 WINE & DINE - 15 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 3

Business & Professional robert Stone & Co, chartered accountants and tax advisers in ilminster answers questions from small businesses in Somerset Q1. i registered as selfemployed in 2005, but as i didn't have any income i ignored the tax returns the tax office sent me. When they demanded £1000 tax for each year, i got my act together and sent in the completed tax returns, which showed no tax due. Now the Taxman won't cancel the tax demands issued for the years before 2008/09. What can i do?

Mid-West The Stationers Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap Office Equipment and Furniture Printer Inks & Toners Competitive Prices

robert Stone replies:

You have been caught by the tax law here. The years before 2008/09 are 'out of time' and the Taxman doesn't have to cancel the tax demands for those years.

Although you may be able to appeal for the tax demands to be cancelled under 'special relief', but you need to show it would be unconscionable for the Taxman to collect the excessive tax. This is a very high hurdle to clear.

Q2. From 1 January 2013 independent Financial Advisers (iFAs) are not permitted to charge commission, and should instead charge fees for the advice and services they provide. Do firms of iFAs have to charge VAT on all the advice they give or is some advice exempt from VAT? robert Stone replies:

The VAT man's guidance says the IFA's advice-only services will be subject to VAT, but if the fee is for an introduction to an

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exempt financial service, that introduction fee will be exempt from VAT. As an IFA you need to sort out exactly what you are charging for: • General advice • Introductions to exempt services (such as to authorised dealers in securities) or • Introductions to services which are subject to VAT such as discretionary investment manager services.

We need to discuss your particular circumstances in detail to sort out the VAT position.

Q3. i got divorced in 2007, but i still jointly-own my former family home with my ex-wife. We agreed she would live there with my daughter until she finished her school exams. The house is now about to be sold. Will i have to pay capital gains tax on my share of the profit made?

robert Stone replies:

You can escape tax on the gain made on your former home if all these conditions are met: • Since you left the property your former spouse has occupied it as her main residence.

• The agreement for your exspouse to stay in the home was made either under a court order, or as part of your divorce.

• You haven't elected for another property to be your main residence for any part of the period since you ceased living in your former home. If you have acquired another property in the meantime, you need to think carefully about which property you claim capital gains tax relief on, as this relief can't be applied to two properties for the same period.

If you have an urgent query, do not hesitate to contact Robert Stone on 01460 55661 or email your questions to: info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk

2013 Diaries & CalenDars Stockists of Lamy, Sheaffer & Parker Pens Filofax & Collins Organisers Call at our shop ...

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Max Foote associates Ltd Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 26 Lower Woodcock Street Castle Cary Ba7 7BH tel: 01963 351052 Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAt, Payroll, Book-keeping and training Personal and professional service 4 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

Letters to the Editor Grammatical no-no or two

Sir, I always enjoy your monthly magazine, reading most articles, especially 'the end bit' where you gleefully highlight the bloopers from less well proofed newspapers. However, I have to take issue with your magazine on two points that perpetually irritate me: poor spelling and ignorance of grammatical correctness as follows: First, The Pub Pages: P. A. Baxter mentions 'a visit by a colleague and myself to the 'Royal Oak' in Dorchester'. Now, I'm sure that if he had gone on his own, it wouldn't be 'a visit my myself to the Royal Oak, but a visit my me to the Royal Oak. Why is everybody so afraid to use the word 'me'? Why would they, for instance, say 'Myself and a colleague visited the Royal Oak, instead of the correct 'A colleague and I visited the Royal Oak'?

When I was at school we were told that the other individual or individuals should come before you in the sentence, out of politeness. Perhaps it goes along with the desire to, say, open a

door to someone accompanying you, then go through first. Your opinions here would be appreciated.

Second, the Vinney cartoon on page 60. The character on the left starts off with 'IF YOUR STUCk ...' Whose (possessive) 'STUCk'?

What is a 'STUCk' and how can one possess one? Yes, it's the all too common total ignorance of the difference between 'YOUR' and 'YOU'RE'! The guy on the left should have said 'IF YOU'RE STUCk'. Similar to 'THEIR', 'THERE', and 'THEY'RE'. By the way, I once saw the 'YOUR' and 'YOU'RE' error on a full-page Sony advertisement in an electronics periodical!

And while I'm on my high horse, what is it with the seemingly universal ignorance of the comparative and superlative derivatives of adjectives?

Everybody does it, including such notables as David Attenborough, to mention but one offender.

Sometimes, people seem to understand the superlative but still feel the need to add 'most', as in an 'Escape to the Countryside'

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(or similar) program, when the presenter took the viewer to the 'most remotest house'. Now, how can you get further than the remotest house? How can a house be even more out of the way than the remotest one? The mind boggles.

I sometimes despair of today's education system, or is it people just trying to be clever? There, I've got that off my chest. Thank you for reading it all and I would be pleased to receive a reply.

Anthony Thorp Email (verbatim)

Pub Pages,'Park Street'

Sir, the references to 'Gangs of Park Street' is definitely a myth.

In my youth, courting a girl from Park street, (early fifties) it was one of the oldest streets in Yeovil, a quite long street with a huge sense of community, a very friendly place to live. There were four pubs along the street and yes they would be full on weekends but so were most pubs everywhere and like most pubs of the day, Friday and Saturday was most likely ended with someone vamping out a few cords on an old piano, with all the clientele singing their heads off.

My wife, (Yes we are still together) will sometimes, join with her sisters and brother reeling off the names of all the residents of the street as every one knew everyone. As for the references to sanitation, lighting etc. it wasn't till the fifties and sixties that sewage works and electric lighting reached most of the small towns and villages. Yes we had a coal fire as did everyone and no we did not use a candle we had an oil lamp, much more modern!

Gerald Masters 17 limington Rd Ilchester BA22 8lX

Jeremy Hill FurnisHings Church street • Wincanton Tel: 01963 31444 Opposite the Churchfields Car Park

Extensive range of Pine & Oak Furniture including many smaller items to make your house into a home

Buy Online

www.jeremyhillfurnishings.co.uk

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

Direct sale only - not available through Agencies.

Puffin Cleaners 17 – 18 Bond street, Yeovil Tel: 01935 421238

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 5

Mentioned in

Dispatches Brue Valley rotary is Wassailing again!

Wassailing is a traditional ceremony in cider making areas, which involves singing and drinking the health of the apple trees in the hope that they might better thrive. The purpose of wassailing is to awake the cider

apple trees and to scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the Autumn.

Wassailing at Yarlington probably dates from the 17th Century but had not been held for many years, until it was revived in January 2012 by the Brue Valley Rotary Club. The event is being held again this year and will include music and dance performed by the Wyvern Jublilee Morris Men followed by a torchlight procession to a local orchard where the traditional Wassail ceremony will be performed, and there will be an opportunity to sample mulled

cider.

Everyone is welcome but please bring some pots and pans, drums, anything which will make a noise to frighten away the evil spirits, which is an important part of the ceremony.

Attendance at this event is FREE and everyone is welcome.

Do join us on Thursday 17th January 2013, 7pm at the Stags Head Yarlington.

Concert & Theatre Trips

The langport & District Red Cross fund raising group have advised us that due to demand, a second trip to The Mousetrap at

Bristol Hippodrome on April 30th has been organised. Coach from Curry Rivel, langport, Somerton, keinton Mandeville & Shepton Mallet. Selling out fast. To book contact Chris on 01458 273085 or on line at www.theatretrips. webeden.co.uk

Martock Local History Group

Sarah Villiers will be giving a talk on 'Somerset Village Schools' on Tuesday 23rd January 2013 at 7.30pm at Martock C of E Primary School in Elmleigh Road.

Sarah has spent three years researching many old village

Antiques & Collecting THIS CHRISTMAS, if you are fed up with the run of the mill chain-store goods and are

Beaminster Antiques, Vintage & Collectables Fair Saturday 12th January Public Hall beaminster, Dorset 9.30am – 4.00pm

small Furniture * textiles china * Glass * silver Jewellery * books * Pictures etc.

Homemade refreshments

looking for something a little different, a visit to one of the antique shops on this page may solve all your gift problems.

From jewellery, paintings and prints to textiles, clocks and furniture - the choice is endless. Make someone happy this Christmas by giving them a truly unique gift.

Gold & Silver Jewellery Wanted

✽ Next Fair – Saturday 2 nd February ✽

Best prices paid for wedding rings, pendants, chains, bracelets, and broken items, etc.

Bookings & Enquiries

Phone Jenny Martin Castle Cary

Meadow Fairs 01297 24446

01963 350733

Quillon House Antiques 16 HigH StrEEt , B ruton

Early 18th century Delft Dutch Charger with Peacock pattern in blue and white – £395

H 17th / 18th C. oak and CompLiments Country Furniture of the H Arms & Armoury season H Equestrian Paintings H Valuations undertaken to aLL H Antiques Purchased  01749 812269

open: tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm

Contemporary Lladro limited edition large porcelain group, ‘Rutting Stags’ £500. Just one of many interesting items available from Quillon House Antiques, Bruton.

O T T GI F

S KEN

dAiry House ANtiques station road, semley, shaftesbury Dorset sP7 9An

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

mon – sat 10am – 5pm, sun 11am – 4pm SuNday MarKET 1st Sunday Each Month Approximately 3 miles north of Shaftesbury just off the A350 signed Semley Industrial Estate

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 6 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

ANDREW BARCLAY TRADiTiOnAl FAMily BuTCHeRS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880

All our meat is NAturAlly reAred and sourced locAlly where possible Beef - from Local Farmers  Lamb - from Charlton Musgrove Pork - from tisbury and Sampford Farm

Order Now For Christmas & The New Year ✔ Delicious Well-Hung Mature Beef ✔ Succulent Pork & Lamb ✔ Tasty Turkeys ✔ Geese ✔ Ducks ✔ Chickens ✔ Home Cooked Hams WE STOCk A FULL SELECTiON OF GAME ...

Venison  Pheasant  Partridge  Duck  Pigeon  rabbit Our Own Dry-Cured Bacon • green Back • green Streaky • Sweet Cure green • Apple & Oak Wood Smoked Back and Streaky

Large Selection of Cheeses

including ...

AWArD WiNNiNG Montgomery Mature Cheddar and ...

Keen’s Mature Cheddar

Annamma’s Cuisine ...

Homemade authentic Southern Indian Curry Sauces Free Range & made locally by a delightful Indian Lady Barn Reared eggs

Try Our Tasty Homemade Sausages with Pork • gloucester Old Spot • traditional Pork and Caramelised Onion • Wild Boar & Cranberry ... to name a few!

WaDMaN'S WOrLD FAMOUS CrEAM from their Jersey Herd

orders taken for our Meat at North cadbury Village stores We would like to thank all of our customers for their support during the year and wish them a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

DAily DeliVeRieS TO THe SuRROunDinG AReA THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches school log books and archives and talking to many people who can remember the 'best years of our lives' (for some!). The results of her research will be delivered in her very entertaining style.

Sarah can answer almost any question on education, and she will jog your memories about some of the old ways of teaching (both good and bad!), and that many 'new' teaching techniques are in fact the oldest, such as the use of phonics in the 17th century (AD). light refreshments served from 7pm. Admission/membership £2

Contacts: Will Aslett, Tel: 822 159 or eMail: cft-paslett@ supanet.com or or Fergus Dowding, Tel: 822 202 or eMail: fergus.dowding@btinternet.com

Make sure you stay safe this Christmas

With the festive period nearly upon us, South Somerset District Council is urging its residents to stay safe this Christmas and book taxis in advance of their evening out.

When the party is over and you need to get home, remember these guidelines about council licensed taxis: Hackney Carriage Vehicles have a white sign attached to the rear of the vehicle displaying the vehicle plate number and also have a plate displayed in the front window.

Hackney Carriages can ply for hire from designated taxi ranks

Perrott Hill School Choir.

and can pick up passengers who flag them down.

Private Hire Vehicles have a yellow sign attached to the rear of the vehicle displaying the vehicle plate number.

Private Hire Vehicles can only be booked in advance through an

operator.

Never get in to a taxi that does not display an appropriate plate at the rear. It is not insured and may not be licensed. Ensure that the driver is displaying a council approved driver’s badge. For your own safety, always take a council

Coping with BErEavEmEnt Appleby & Childs

Appleby & Childs are members of The National Association of Memorial Masons. Established in 1886, Appleby & Childs are your local independent Monumental Masons. With over 125 years of service throughout Somerset and parts of Wiltshire and Dorset, they pride themselves on excellent customer

service and have a fantastic reputation for quality. All work is guaranteed for 5 years and insurance policies are also available. The showroom features a wide range of memorials in various materials and finishes and is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. Home visits can be arranged on request.

A. J. Wakely & Sons

Formerly Wakely Brothers limited, the business has been renamed A. J. Wakely & Sons to reflect the strong family ties.

Established over 100 years it is a privately owned independent Funeral Directors that has built a reputation over the decades for delivering a quality and dignified service.

A. J. Wakely & Sons understands that everybody has different requirements and offer

A. J. WAkEly & SonS ltD independent Family Funeral Directors • golden Charter Pre Paid Funeral Plans • 24 Hour Service.

• Private Chapel of rest

totally bespoke funerals including more unusal services, such as woodland burials, motorbike hearse and horse drawn funerals to name but a few.

A. J. Wakely & Sons are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to offer guidance and help at what is an unfamiliar and distressing time for families.

Branches at Sparrow Road, Yeovil; 16 Newland, Sherborne and Carrington Way, Wincanton.

Mark Jales

Mark Jales Independent Funeral Directors ltd., has been trading for a year in December 2012 providing excellent dedicated care and service to families in Wells and the surrounding areas.

Mark Jales has over sixteen years experience as a funeral director and believes passionately in the independent market. He looks after every family and directs every funeral personally, whether it is a simple affair or a lavish one. Tasteful, simple coffins are provided suitable for burial or cremation;

environmentally green funerals right through to large Americanstyle caskets. Mark believes in keeping costs down as much as possible and believes they are the most competitive in the area.

They do not add on extra mileage charges. For example, if a funeral takes place in Yeovil, Crewkerne, Chard, Wincanton, Frome, or Bruton there is no extra mileage charge, you get the same service at the same cost as you would in Wells. They believe in transparency and are confident that they provide the highest level of service at the most reasonable level of cost.

From the moment of your first call they will look after you with dignity and respect, catering for your every requirement and inform you of costing throughout.

They also provide the services of a stonemason and pre-paid funeral plans are available.

Mark Jales offers a 24-hour service and can be contacted on (01749) 679796. Visit: www. mark jalesfuneraldirectors.com for more information.

Mark Jales independent Funeral Directors ltd.

Of Wells & Castle Cary

Cremations ~ Burials ~ Headstones & Memorials international repatriation Reg. 7704329

Brochure upon request - contact Clive Wakely Dip F.D. M.B.i.E.

Office & Chapel: 22a Priory road, Wells somerset, Ba5 1sZ (UK)

the old Police Station, Carrington Way WinCAnton BA9 9JS tel: 01963 31310

Tel: 01749 679796 (Wells) 01963 358003 (Castle Cary) Fax: 01749 670405 Email: markjalesfunerals@yahoo.co.uk Website: www.markjalesfuneraldirectors.com

8 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

Mentioned in

Dispatches licensed vehicle – the driver and vehicle have both been vetted.

Always ensure the meter is used in a hackney carriage. The meter shows the maximum by law that can be charged for the journey from pick up to drop off.

Operators are perfectly entitled to charge below this but cannot charge more.

Nigel Marston, licensing Manager at South Somerset District Council said, ‘Don’t let a good night out be ruined by an unlicensed taxi. Always book in advance or make sure you have the number of several local taxi firms stored in your mobile phone before going out.

Before getting in a taxi ensure the driver knows the destination and always sit in the back. Make sure that you’re picked up and dropped off somewhere familiar and well lit, however if you feel uneasy with the driver ask him to stop at a busy, familiar place and get out.’

Councillor Peter Seib, portfolio

holder for Regulatory and Democratic Services said, ‘Never get into a taxi that doesn’t have the proper plate at the back. The driver and the vehicle will both have been vetted in a council licensed cab.’

For more information on taxi licensing or how to stay safe this Christmas, please contact South Somerset District Council on 01935 462462 or ssdc@south somerset.gov.uk

Perrott Hill Choir Trip to rome

A Perrott Hill school choir, led by the Director of Music Trevor Barr, had a very successful five day visit to Rome this year. The city was particularly busy as thousands of pilgrims had travelled to Rome to attend the Papal Audience which took place on the same day that the choir sang for Mass at St Peter’s Basilica.

Trevor Barr said, ‘This was an

experience that the children will never forget and I suspect that they will be talking about it for years to come’. During their time in Rome the Choir also sang at a local school and enjoyed visits to the Castle of the Angels, the Coliseum and the Vatican Museum.

On their return to Perrott Hill the choir recorded a CD of music for Advent and Christmas and performed a carol concert at the magnificent Forde Abbey.

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

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

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

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

www.elliscombehouse.co.uk Higher Holton, nr. Wincanton, BA9 8eA 01963 33370 info@elliscombehouse.co.uk THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches Get into the Festive Spirit

Gillingham Imperial Silver Band will be Caroling around Gillingham (evenings) from the 17th to the 21st December.

The band will be out around the town playing carols door to door, collecting funds to help the band over the coming year. They are always really pleased with the donations and generosity and feedback of the town, and would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, and they look forward to seeing you again this year. For more information on where they are playing each evening, look at their Facebook page, where they will endevour to keep you informed.

On 24th December what better way to start the festivities than by enjoying a festive tipple in the company of friendly people, with the band playing carols in the corner? Visit The Walnut Tree Inn at Mere, soak up the atmosphere and just relax, before what is for many, the hectic days ahead.

Carols at The Walnut Tree will start at approximately 8pm.

Competition Winners

The winner of the Wincanton Competition in last month’s issue was Mrs A. Dunford of Evercreech, who chose to spend her voucher at Papertrees, the office shop, bookshop and newsagents at 33 High Street.

The winner of the ‘Like’ Our Facebook Page draw on page 7 of the December issue can be viewed on: facebook.com/the visitormagazine from 18th December.

Somerset Waste Partnership

‘Sort and save time’ is the call from SWP to help Christmas collection

crews shift all the county’s extra recycling and rubbish. Take a second or two to separate different materials roughly within their kerbside collection boxes. This makes each pick-up much more efficient for collectors, especially with hundreds of extra tonnes of recycling to take over Christmas.

Collection crews place the dozen or more materials picked up at the kerbside for recycling into different compartments on the vehicles by hand. Rough segregation of items will allow them to collect even more at their busiest time of the year. With tens of thousands of recycling and refuse collections every working day – almost 20 million a year – even a few seconds saved per collection quickly adds up.

SWP Managing Director Steve Read said: ‘It is easy to organise recycling collection boxes by roughly separating glass, paper, foil and the rest.

‘Plastic bottles and cans mixed together are Ok, as these are automatically sorted at depots, but it really helps if all other materials are roughly grouped together.

‘Saving seconds at each of our customers’ 240,000 homes would make a big difference, ensuring we can collect more and offer a better service.’

As well as separating materials for recycling, SWP advises: *No broken glass in recycling boxes – wrap carefully, put in refuse. *Flatten cardboard, and take the tops off bottles and jars. *Rinse out cans, bottles and jars; bag and scrunch up foil together. *keep textiles, from clothes to sheets, dry in bags (not black sacks). *Do not squash or pierce aerosols, which should be empty.

As well as extra materials to collect from the Christmas gifts and celebrations, there will be changes in collection dates. Visit: www.somersetwaste.gov.uk for more information.

Vale of

A well known landmark - Sturminster Mill in the Vale of Blackmore.

ghd

Straightener in gold, red or silver

£135

Hair & Beauty Salon Market Cross SturMinSter newton tel: 01258 473123

ghd

Hair dryer

+ heat protection pack & dust bag

£90

SaVE 10% OFF aLL BEauTy TrEaTMENTS ... with New Beautician CLaIrE HEaLy through JaNuary & FEBruary

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Must be booked by 31st December

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 Merry Christmas to all our Clients 

Guy's automobile engineers Established Over 65 Years

ELEctronic WhEEL BaLancing - 4 WhEEL tracking QuaLity tyrEs - QuaLity sErvicE • usEd car saLEs • Top Quality Servicing and Repairs • All Makes of Vehicles Petrol & Diesel • MOT Testing • Electronic Engine Tuning • Light Commercial Vehicles • Exhaust Systems & Batteries • Brakes & Clutches • Welding Repairs to a High Standard • Qualified Technicians • Fully Equipped Work Shops • All Work Guaranteed Open Monday – Friday 8.15am – 5.00pm, Saturday 9am – 1pm

Phillips Hill, Marnhull, Dorset • 01258 820244 www.guysautomobileengineers.co.uk email: richardpguy@aol.com 10 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

Vale of Guys of Marnhull

Hanson’s Fabrics

Guys of Marnhull is a well established family run firm.

Today it is run by proprietor Richard Guy. Formerly Skoda and Mazda franchise holders they now concentrate on the sale of quality second hand cars, plus the fully equipped workshop offers a comprehensive servicing facility on all make of cars. A courtesy car can be provided whilst your car is being serviced. It is a MOT testing station and a Unipart Car Care centre. So if you are planning to travel over the festive season why not get your car serviced and have a trouble free journery?

There are plenty of gift ideas at Hanson’s - sewing machines to suit all abilities and budgets, natural light lamps, crafts, craft books, sewing boxes and so much more. The knowledgeable and friendly staff will be pleased to help if you have any queries. looking forward to the New Year there is a wide choice of one day workshops from curtain making for beginners and make your own cushions, through to jewellery making, introduction to rag rugs and make your own lingerie!

Why not call in for a Sew What’s New brochure.

Enzo’s

Noah’s Ark Pet Shop

Enzo’s Hair & Beauty are pleased to welcome beautician Claire Healy to their team.

Claire offers a complete range of beauty treatments including Hopi candling and hot stones.

She will be available full-time, including all day Saturdays and late night by appointment.

There is a 10% discount off any treatment with Claire during January and February if booked by 31st December.

Enzo’s has a host of Christmas gift ideas including ghd hair straighteners and hairdryers at discounted prices, plus gift sets from Jessica Nails and Jane Iredale cosmetics.

30% OFF SpECTaCLES

Why not come and spoil your four legged, furry, finned and feathered friends this Christmas - we have a wide range of toys, treats and foods in stock, or to order, for all types of pets. We also have a wide range of foods and accessories for poultry and wild birds.

We would like to wish all our customers past, present and future a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and to say thank you to you all for your continued support over the last year!

You will find us on Bridge Street, Sturminster Newton or call us on 01258 472205.

NOAH’S ARK Pet SHOP Pet Foods, treats, toys, Accessories and Health & Hygiene for all your Furry, Four-Legged, Finned & Feathered Friends

1 Retsel House, Bridge Street, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1AW  01258 472205

EyES rIGHT OpTICIaNS St. Audries Station Road, Gillingham Tel: 01747 831010

3 Market Place Sturminster newton

Tel: 01258 473992 LOw prICES QuaLITy SErVICE aNd *aLL fRames are priced including single vision lenses. please ask our staff for full offer details.

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 11

TOPOGRAPHY has dictated that most of Shaftesbury’s expansion has been eastwards from Castle Hill, site of the original Saxon burgh founded by king Alfred in AD888. First to come was the abbey, established east of the entrance to the burgh, then in medieval times a town started to develop beyond the eastern edge of the abbey precinct. In recent times most of the new

development has been on land beyond what is nowadays the busy A350. Where once there were fields on the eastern side of the old town there are now acres of late 20th century housing, schools and the other trappings of a thriving modern town, together with longmead Industrial Estate and the nearby Wincombe Business Park. Both are worth exploring, for there you will find

WOODBuRneRS

Restored to its former glory is the elegant Grosvenor Hotel, a former coaching inn.

MOTCOMBe PARK PHySiOTHeRAPy & SPORTS inJuRieS CliniC

★ Reconditioning ★ Reglazing ★ New Ropes etc.

FOr trEAtMEnt OF ALL SPOrtS & rECEnt InjurIES

NEW aNd RECONdITIONEd WOOdBURNERS ON SaLE

... paint, flue cleaner etc. also available

Centre

We can refurbish your woodburner

PhysioFirst

• Low Back Pain • Neck Pain • Leg Pain • Fitness instruction Christine Worrall

GARDen MACHineRy & STOVeS

 01747 851021

www.benjohnsonmowers.com

17d Wincombe Business Park, shaFtEsBury, sP7 9QJ

MCSP

• Whiplash • Tennis Elbow • knee Pain • Hip Pain Most Health Schemes Accepted

Tel: 01747 850328 • cjworrall@btinternet.com Home Visits – Treatment Available 8am – 8pm

Westfields, New road, Shaftesbury SP7 8QH

Homemaker Ltd, Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8PL Tel: 01747 851476 www.myhomemaker.co.uk │ Also branches in Bath and Warminster 12 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

the showrooms of some of Shaftesbury’s premier businesses.

What’s often overlooked by visitors is that the town also expanded southward. Admire the panoramic view across the Blackmore Vale from the top of Gold Hill or from Park Walk and you will scarcely spot the small subsidiary settlement of St James tucked along the foot of the Greensand promontory on which you are standing. Its origins lie in the medieval period when the abbey had expanded to accommodate more than 100 nuns and employed many people to cater for their needs and care for their estate. What the abbey lacked, indeed what most of the hilltop settlement lacked, was a plentiful supply of water, and that’s what was available at St James. Surviving street names – laundry lane and Tanyard lane – recall the services provided to the abbey from here, and the building of St James’s church testifies to a significantly large population in the 12th century.

So it’s an interesting place to explore and if you don’t feel fit enough to face the climb back up Gold Hill, drive out of town along Bimport (the B3091 Sturminster Newton road) to the bottom of the hill and turn left into St James’s Street. After a short distance the road widens and there is usually ample kerbside parking. From here it’s just a few yards to the bottom of Gold Hill, rarely photographed

because it lacks the panoramic backdrop, where some of the pretty cottages date from as early as the 16th century. Nearby is the

popular Ye Olde Two Brewers Inn, now the only remaining pub in St James. I know next to nothing about its history, but it’s an

unpretentious free house full of ‘olde-worlde’ charm and has a very tempting menu if you’re in need of sustenance.

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

pick up a genuine bargain from stock at Homemaker One stop shopping for all your electrical needs!

COOKERS, FREEZERS RANGES, FRIDGES AmERICAN AppLIANCES Swans Yard, off the High Street, is home to a variety of art and craft shops and a cafe grouped around a small square.

Orchard cars

Local, Long Distance Airports, Parcels Merry Christmas to all our customers STurMinSTer neWTon

01258 472395

Free Standing and Built-In Small Electricals & TVs

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Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury, Dorset Sp7 8pL Tel: 01747 851476 • Fax: 01747 858996 shaftesbury@myhomemaker.co.uk www.myhomemaker.co.uk THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 13

Rarely photographed, because it lacks the panoramic backdrop, is the view up Gold Hill.

GArdeN MAcHiNery

Shaftesbury

01747 851021 Season’s Greetings to all our customers

GArdeN and AtV power SAleS, SeRViCe & SPAReS ● Mowers ● Garden Machinery ● Garden Tools ● ATVs

17d Wincombe Business Park sHaFTesBUrY sP7 9QJ

www.benjohnsonmowers.com 14 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

A stroll westwards along the street reveals countless stone-built cottages of different periods, some quite grand with mullioned windows but most very small. For centuries St James was one of the poorer areas of Shaftesbury, with one block of cottages even being known as Poor Row, but in recent decades most homes have been thoroughly renovated or rebuilt and it is now what the estate agents call a ‘desirable location’ with the properties ‘much sought after’. They are right! See if you can spot the former Hand in Hand pub which closed in the 1950s – it

was on the right-hand side not far beyond the modern St James House flats – and the Fox and Hounds, also closed in the 1950s, on the corner of Tanyard lane. look out, too, for Andrew’s Yard with its cottages grouped round an old water pump. Andrew was James Andrew, owner of the yard around the end of the 18th century when the cottages were built or rebuilt.

St James’s Church stands at the end of the street. It’s not the original small church built in 1138 with a tower added in 1660. Much of this was swept away when the present larger church was built in mid-1860s and sited around 30 yards to the west of the medieval building. But if you like browsing round old churches I suspect you’ll enjoy this one.

If you enjoy browsing round the shops – or if you’re still looking for last-minute gifts – you’ll need to return to the top of the hill. The town centre still retains a bustling High Street where long-established independent retailers offering highquality merchandise – and service to match – far outnumber the soulless chain stores and cheapjack traders. The retail core stretches from Salisbury Street in the east, through Angel Square and along the High Street to The Commons, then back along Bell Street, but sadly the road alterations designed to make this busy area more pedestrian-friendly have not proved very successful. So keep a watchful eye open for the traffic.

When I visited the town a few weeks ago it appeared to be thriving despite the economic doom and gloom. Workmen were busy putting up the Christmas decorations, so by the time you read this the town centre will be

Wine & Dine ablaze with colourful festive lights from mid-afternoon. Here you’ll find a good range of fashionable ladieswear, clothes for men and boys, home furnishings, jewellery, chocolates, local-interest books, wines and spirits, locally-produced food and drink and gifts galore.

If it’s local arts and craftwork you’re seeking, head for Swans Yard, off the High Street, which is home to a variety of art and craft shops and a café grouped around a

small square. The concept, according to the Swans Trust which manages it, is to provide a focus for craftspeople and artists of all ages and abilities and recreate Shaftesbury’s past reputation as a focus for artisan excellence – a reputation dating back to the heyday of its famous abbey founded by Alfred the Great when the town was in its infancy more than a thousand years ago.

Roger Richards.

A popular pub tucked away near the foot of Gold Hill is Ye Olde Two Brewers Inn.

The BarBer Shop parsons pool, Shaftesbury We shall be open Mondays as from 7th January Colin, Sandra & Louise would like to wish customers old and new a very happy Christmas!

01747 852850

Turkey Left-Overs

HAVE YOU ordered your turkey?

Are you looking forward to your traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings? Are you already wondering how to ring the changes with the left-overs?

Well ... let me make a suggestion.

How does lasagne with fennel and turkey sound to you? This recipe uses sheets of lasagne which are softened in hot water and then stuffed with a tasty mixture of fennel and turkey and covered with a cheese sauce. The recipe serves 4.

Ingredients 3 tblsps olive oil 1 large fennel bulb, trimmed and chopped finely 1 large red pepper, cored, deseeded and chopped finely 8 sheets of ‘no-pre-cook’ lasagne 3 large cloves of garlic, chopped 1 heaped teaspoon ground mace 1lb turkey, minced 1oz butter 1oz plain flour 1 pint milk 4 ozs mature Cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan Salt & black pepper

7. Increase the heat then stir in the mace and then the minced turkey. Continue to stir over a high heat for about 8 minutes until thoroughly combined.

Season to taste, then turn mixture into a bowl.

8. When mixture is cool enough to handle, spoon mixture into the centre of each lasagne sheet, then roll the pasta loosely round the filling.

9. Place the filled rolls in the dish, join side down.

10. Now make the sauce using the easy all-in-one method.

Put the butter, flour and cold milk in a saucepan, place over a medium heat and with a wire whisk stir continually until the sauce comes up to a simmer. Continue to cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, then remove from the heat and add the grated cheese. Season to taste.

11. Pour the sauce over the pasta rolls and sprinkle over the parmesan cheese.

12. Bake in a pre-heated oven 190°C, 375°F, Gas Mark 5 for 35 - 40 minutes, until golden on top.

Method 1. lightly oil a rectangular overproof dish.

2. Put the olive oil in a large deep frying pan over a medium heat.

3. Add the chopped fennel and pepper, stir to mix. Cover and leave to cook for 10 - 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Fill a large bowl with hot water and add a few drops of olive oil. Put the lasagne sheets into the bowl and leave for around 8 - 12 minutes until soft enough to bend.

5. Remove sheets and drain separately on a flat surface.

6. To the softened vegetables add the garlic and stir for a couple of minutes.

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock Festive Fayre ...  Fruit & Veg Boxes  Dairy Produce  Preserves  Christmas Cakes and Puds  Local Wines and Ciders  Christmas trees - traditional and nordman Fir  OrDErS TAkEN for FrESH TUrkEyS Geese - red Meats - Hams - Hampers

Excellent Value Christmas Trees

open aLL DaY Sunday 23rd December • Christmas eve 8am – 1pm • Closed 25th, 26th & 27th December open Friday 28th & Saturday 29th December 10am – 1pm • Re-open Wednesday 2nd January

Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Tel: 01935 827743

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 15

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

STRANGE, is it not, when one finds oneself at a pub after many years and it is difficult to remember what it had looked like at that previous visit? So often pubs can be subjected to corporate vandalism over the years and the place loses all character. Luckily, this does not happen so often where there are caring owners, and it was at just such an establishment that a colleague and I were lucky enough to visit recently. It was at a Good Beer Guide regular, the ‘Bird in Hand’ at Henstridge, on the A357 just

South of the A30 crossroads.

Some years ago I had the pleasure of playing in the Sturminster Newton Skittle League, and this was our home alley. No small amount of time has passed since then and speaking to the son of the owners, Owen tells me his parents have been there for an incredible 32 years, and in fact the locals like them so much they even threw a surprise party for them to mark their thirtieth year. Serious respect! I decided on a simple pub favourite of a ham and cheese ploughman’s, whilst my colleague went for a chilli potato. Beer on offer was the ever-popular Butcombe, and Greene King IPA. The latter is a mere 3.6%ABV which surprisingly was once the champion beer of Great Britain, as voted for by the CAMRA panel at the Great British Beer Festival. I say surprisingly, for whilst it is a pleasant light bitter, it is not something one would seriously enthuse over. Needless to say, the pint served to me was in tip-top condition. The day of our visit was a cold one, and although the pub has a large wood-burner, its great maw remained empty and cold. In fact we were told it was actually some time since it was last used. A great shame, for I am sure the

Vinny pays a visit to the recently re-opened Railway Hotel in Yeovil.

very fact that there is facility, once word gets around that this is a lovely pub with fine fare, good beer and a friendly welcome, a blazing log fire brings a glow to everyone’s face and would attract more custom. Will we visit again?

Yes, of course, and let us hope

that there will not be the time span there was this time, after all, whilst some places change enough to pop our happy memory bubble, this establishment is one that has remained true to its heritage - and true to its customers.

~ The ~

N EW YE AR ’ S E VE Enjoy a 4 Course NYE Dinner with Champagne on arrival Dance the night away to your favourite old school years music - and carriages at 2am FREE taxi for each booking within an 8 mile radius!

N E W Y E A R Q UI Z N I G H T Thursday 24th January, 7.30pm in aid of Happy Landings Animal Shelter

BU RN ’ S N I G H T Sunday 27th January with 3 Course Burn’s Dinner Whisky & Piper £29.50

Manor House Inn Ditcheat

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

AcouSTic NighT

Thursday 10th January from 7.30pm onwards Tickets £3 per person available from the Manor house inn or on the door.

Due to the resounding success of our first night with Acoustic at the Manor, A.J. Webber and friends will be continuing their monthly performance.

Guests to be announced.

Pie & PiNT NighT

every Tuesday / Wednesday throughout January and February ... from 8th January.

Choice of 3 Delicious Homemade Pies and your choice of a Pint, Small Glass of Wine, or a Soft Drink - £10 per person.

Booking advised.

NeW YeAR’S eve

Limited spaces still available.

Please contact us for further information. www.manorhouseinn.co.uk 16 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

The

Pub Pages

We had the pleasure of sampling more beers from American craft brewers of late, mainly thanks to my Godson living in Atlanta Georgia with his family, and our friends paying them a visit. The beers sampled of late were all stouts; not just ordinary stouts, but two were IMPERIAL stouts, and oh boy, the flavours they have are just incredible. The first I have to review here is from the Highland Brewing Company – of North Carolina, complete with a piper in full highland regalia on the label!

Take a look at their web-site for details of the beers they have, although this one, a Black Mocha Stout, is served in a 1 pint 6 fluid ounce bottle, and no mention of the alcohol by volume.

Apparently this is to discourage drinkers buying strong beers just

to get drunk. Can anyone confirm this? This is described as their ‘most robust beer’ with ‘a malty body, large chocolate flavor (sic) black with a clean finish and moderate hop flavor’ (sic, again) Well the Americans may not be able to spell, but they can produce good beers. The next two were, to say the least, mind-bogglingly beautiful beers in every respect.

The first, from the Mendocino Company, Saratoga Springs weighing in at 10% ABV was in the ‘rich old style’, whilst the second, ‘Storm King’ from the Victory Brewing Company of Downingtown Pennsylvania, was a mere 9.1% ABV(!) My reader may recall us having more than one of their ‘V12’ beers (yes, 12% ABV) and relating the poetic way the beer was described on the label. They managed it on this one too. Allow me to quote: ‘Emerging from the deepest shades of darkness, a rolling crescendo of flavors (sic) burst forth from this robust stout. The thundering hoppy appeal of Storm King subsides into the mellow subtleties of roasted malt, exhibiting an espresso-like depth of character in its finish …’ etc., etc. Clearly brewed by those with a passion for producing the very best! I have to say that we found both beers outstanding, and so I

would not like to choose one over the other. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; these beers are seriously challenging the English at their own game, and some of the European styles they produce are already ahead of their counterparts. Watch out everyone; the Yanks are coming!

The official CAMRA organ

‘What’s Brewing’ plops onto our door-mat every month and the subject that every issue seems to have is the one about the danger of losing yet more pubs to recession and uncaring pub owners. For the latter, the trend would always appear to be perpetuated by the big Pubcos, about whom an independent

Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...

Royal oak over Stratton, South Petherton Tel: 01460 240906

A Charming Country Inn

Offering delicious home-cooked Food ... lunchtime special 2 courses - £8.50 (Tuesday to Saturday) Wednesday & Thursday special

surf, Turf, swine & Wine night

TWo Rump Steaks, or TWo Beer Battered Haddock or TWo Gammon Steaks, or Any Two with a Carafe of Wine ... £19.95 per couple (Booking Advised) 

Open FOr BOxing day lunch ✴ Open new year’s eve ✴



Full Menu available

Visit our website for full menu details: www.the-royal-oak.net Chris, Jill and Staff would like to thank all their customers for their support during the year and wish them all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Mark & Isabel welcome you to the

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

Miss the rush! Book your Christmas Party in January - some dates still available  ChrISTMAS DAY  luncheon £ 75 • Children £ 37.50 (under 12 years)

Open Boxing Day - lunchtime & evening new Year’s Eve - full a la carte menu Open new Year’s Day

Wednesday 2nd Jan. 70s Dinner Party 2 Courses £ 12 (70s attire optional)

Tuesday 8th Jan. Quiz night AA rOSETTE AWArD 2013 for CulInArY ExCEllEnCE (Also for 2009 – 2010 – 2011 – 2012 – 2013) Delicious Award Winning Food served every day lunchtime and evening Traditional roasts available Sunday lunchtimes Beautiful Gardens • real Ales Ample Parking • Ensuite Accommodation

Bookings Tel: 01935 823341 Fax: 01935 825786 • Email: info@thecrownandvictoria.co.uk www.thecrownandvictoria.co.uk THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 17

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financial organisation estimated that they charge twice the rent they should to their tenants. Why there are so many brave people that take these things on is a bit of a mystery to me, after all, they surely do not go in without independent advice or a contract of strict terms and conditions?

So many times we hear about keen couples who take a pub, build up the trade, only to have their lords and masters double the rent, which results in them

 

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freehouse

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WINTER SavER

$

$

Shaftesbury Road, Mere, Wilts

SAVE £5 OFF 2 Main Meals Monday to Saturday Anytime Sunday After 6pm With this Voucher - Offer Ends 28th February Terms and Conditions Apply Excludes Christmas Menus & Light Bites

Sunday Carvery Enjoy a Choice of 4 Meats, at least 8 Varieties of Fresh Vegetables, Giant Yorkshire Puddings and more!

Monday 14th January Return of

THE BIG QUIZ

... come on down - it’s not Mastermind

The

Lord Nelson Rectory Lane

Norton Sub Hamdon

Merry Christmas Everyone

gOOd FOOd - gOOd Beer - greaT aTmOsphere

Mark, Helen and Staff ...

Would like to sincerely thank all their customers for their unwavering support throughout the year and for all their hard work in the many charity fund raising events.

Wishing you all the very happiest of Christmases and a happy and healthy New Year!

Bookings

Tel: 01935 881473

Maggie and Mike welcome you to

LOOK OUT for ...

Spectacular Food & Drink Offers for January and February on our website: www.walnut-tree-inn.co.uk Find us on Facebook

01747 861220

“Good food - good wines - good times” 18 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

The Dolphin Inn Peacemarsh

Gillingham, sP8 4hB  01747 822758 OPEN ALL DAY ...

From Monday 17th December through to Tuesday 1st January Sunday 23rd December: Christmas Raffle, 7.30pm Christmas Eve: Carols, Mince Pies & Mulled Wine, 6pm Donations to Julia’s house  Games from 9pm Christmas Day: Open for Drinks from 11am Boxing Day: Roast Beef or Gammon - £8.95 New Year’s Eve: Party including FREE BUFFET maggie, mike & staff wish all their customers a Very merry christmas and a happy 2013 Sunday Lunches 12noon ‘til 3pm and 6pm ‘til 9pm £8.95 Monday to Saturday - £5 Lunches Quiz every Thursday  Charity Quiz first sunday of the month

The

Pub Pages

leaving – and the pub remaining empty until someone else is brave enough to take the place on again (and the owners getting no income from it until that happens). According to an insolvency trade body quoted in a recent ‘What’s Brewing’ a third of all pubs could be in danger of going under. Over the years CAMRA has become a more organised, and more acceptable organisation within the mainstream and even become recognised as the most successful consumer group in Europe. It is certainly not greed that motivates its members to do what they do; more a passion for something in which that they truly believe and should be kept. That does not just encompass the beer of course, as a good drinking establishment,

be it in the middle of a city or the middle of the countryside, is part of our way of life – our heritage if you will. For the first time in this past twelve months, CAMRA has had a stand at the Conservative, Labour and Liberal party conferences in Brighton, Manchester and Birmingham, and were putting their concerns directly to Ministers, Councillors and M.P’s . Of particular interest to those people with the power was the good work carried out by CAMRA in helping communities with their pubs, so if you think your village or community should buy their local, take a look at mycommunityrights.org or contact CAMRA direct. It’s not just about the fact that the pub might be lost though, is it? The ‘Pub is the Hub’ as we so often hear, and now it is the time to make more use of the facility, as barely a week goes by without hearing of a shop or Post Office closing in a village – but somewhere a pub opens the facility on its own premises. Now I hear of so many community centres for the elderly being closed. Surely then it’s time for these older folk to meet up at their pub. Well it is, isn’t it?

Happy New Year; and remember, it may be the best

New Year Resolution you’ll ever make - and will stick to, to try just a few of the great beers we have to drink in this country.

AROUND THE

H O U S E S IN YEOVIL ... we are pleased to report that The Railway Hotel has re-opened after a brief closure and we welcome landlord Mark who tells us food is now available, including Sunday Lunch ... at The Great Western you can now enjoy a good pint and a read of The Visitor Magazine ... Storm will be live at The Quicksilver

Mail on New Year’s Eve ... a Christmas Quiz at The Castle West Coker on Sunday 23rd December ... due to demand the December Jazz Night is sold out at The Foresters Arms, East Coker ... Doombar proving a popular guest ale at The Halfway House Inn, Chilthorne Domer ... authentic Thai Buffet on the 9th January at The Rose & Crown Bradford Abbas ... and in Montacute, The Phelips Arms do a very nice sea bass.

Nudging on to Norton Sub Hamdon at The Lord Nelson we learn that landlord Mark plays golf like he does cricket very badly ... Norman’s Conquest at 7% is a popular tipple at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock

The Rose & Crown

Bradford AbbasSaturd • Tel: 01935 474506 Saturday 22nd December: ‘REAL DEAL’ Sunday 23rd December: Christmas Quiz Night all proceeds to Musgrove Park Hospital Friday 28th December: ‘ELViS 56’ tribute Saturday 5th January: No FixED ABoDE Wednesday 9th January: ... eat as much as you like buffet – £18pp (bookings only) Sunday 13th January: opEN JAm SESSioN – no electrics Saturday19th January: BLACk mAgiC WomAN – back by popular demand Sunday 27th January: Quiz Night

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all our Customers  A few spaces still available for ChRiStmAS DAY LuNChEoN adults & children over 12 only £49.45 (bookings only)

B&B

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley - Live Music

Dinnington, Nr Hinton St. George Somerset

Tel: 01460 52397 • Email: hilary@dinningtondocks.co.uk Weekday RoaSt LuNcH offeR £4.75 or £8.95 per Couple Great Value Steak NiGHt Wednesdays TWO 8oz Rumps + Bottle of Wine £22.95 fReSH fiSH from Beer every friday SuNDay caRveRy (Choice of 3 Meats) £8.95 DockS caRoL SeRvice christmas eve 12 Noon New years eve “tHe comic StRip” ... bookings now being taken Saturday 26th January BuRNS NiGHt ceLeBRatioN 2 Course Menu just £10.95 "The Docks" which is featured in Camra's Good Pub Guide is well known for the quality of its cask ales and food. There are no pool tables, loud music or fruit machines, just a warm and friendly atmosphere where the locals will engage you in good old fashioned conversation - translators are available!

your hosts, Mick, Jean & Garry wish all their customers a very Happy Christmas ...

The Muddled Man lower Street, West Chinnock Christmas Day - Open for Drinks 11.00am – 1.30pm

Boxing Day - Bubble & Squeak Buffet - £15 12.30pm – 4.00pm

Saturday 29th December - Curry Buffet - £10.50 12.30pm – 2.30pm and 7.00pm – 9.00pm

Burns Night Supper - Friday 25th January Cock-A-Leekie Soup * Haggis, Neeps & Tatties * Tipsy Laird ... or Cheese & Biscuits (Vegetarian Haggis available if pre-booked)

Function Room available for your corporate presentations / business meetings - call to book HoMe MADe DAiLy SPeCiALS • ReAL ALeS • SkiTTLe ALLey • BeeR GARDeNS

Tel: 01935 881235

Montague Inn Shepton Montague nr. Bruton Tel: 01749 813213

✴ Festive Opening ✴ Christmas Day Lunchtime Boxing Day Lunchtime New Year's Eve Evening New Year's Day Lunchtime Like Racing?

Check out the Package for Wincanton Races at The Monty ...



Brunch at The Monty Premier enclosure Ticket followed by early Supper back at The Montague Inn - only £30

Booking is essential - 48 hours notice Next Race Day Saturday 5th January

2 course Lunch Deal £10 - Mon - Sat Simple Supper nights - Tuesdays Steak nights - Mondays THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 19

They Say That when it comes to spelling and grammar, Jilly Smith is on the ball, and we apologise for the error in last month’s Vinny.

That a super-efficient Miss Millie Feakins of Stalham became her brother’s PA, on the occasion of his fourth birthday.

That Sandie Barratt of Wincanton wishes David Barratt of Rhosgadfan a happy sixtieth birthday.

That ewe will shortly see Sheep flocking to the windows and gardens in Chiselborough.

That after the recent spate of bad weather it is difficult to imagine that the South Petherton Duck race needed assistance from the fire brigade earlier this year.

That a large bag of peanuts has now replaced the Kitekat at John Hamblin’s of Yeovil.

That Mr and Mrs Eddie Venn of Chiselborough now know that there are two park and rides at Taunton.

That North Cheriton has a lot of stile - an awful lot of stile - but it gets you nowhere.

That with no street lights, Mathew Hann of Chiselborough is hoping Santa Claus will bring him a torch this Christmas, after his recent stroll led him to walk in to a parked car!

That regular helper at the Lord Nelson - Alice Hutchings of Norton Sub Hamdon was recently awarded apprentice of the year in catering.

That a certain lady from Norton Sub Hamdon had to use her Sat Nav to return from Yeovil.

That John Cornick of the 'Rams' skittle team in Yeovil has discovered that he could score more pins ... by not turning up for the evening.

That Cambridge’s Norman Leeks has been to see the new film release of Les Miserables, but couldn’t make out which character was Les! That during the run-up to Christmas, the two hours free parking in Sherborne’s shortstay car-parks has been just the ticket, according to some shoppers.

That our pub pages Vinny has recently been renamed Vinney, or are you just trying to catch us out AT? That Glastonbury’s Richard Jones is a gene-ius when it comes to mulled wine.

That Bruton has recently been replicated - in gingerbread!

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOViL “Once bitten twice shy i keep my distance but you still catch my eye Tell me baby, do you recognise me?

Well it’s been a year, it doesn’t surprise me” FiRST PeRSoN to tell me the above song gets a free drink. Last month annette Stuckey of Ilminster was the first with ‘nothing about me’ by Sting.

Season’s greetings to you both, got lots to tell you about so let’s crack on!

Got to say a big thank you to all who came to help me celebrate my birthday.

The music, the drink and the company made for a super evening.

This month we have to give one of our regulars a special mention. Ray o’donnell, fresh from finishing his first novel (50 Shades of Ray) has decided to read another one . The reason for his honourable mention is because after an evening of chatting, drinking, and thrilling us all with his anecdotes old and new, Ray got a taxi home. The following morning, a little fluffy around the edges, Ray decided to walk with a purpose to The Preston Hotel, to collect his car. After a few minutes of fruitless searching around the car park Ray remembered that he had been at The Quicksilver and his car cold and forlorn was waiting for him there! Strong stuff that Blackthorn eh Ray?  Don’t forget that Mad-dog McCrea is here on the 21st of this month and Snake davis is here on the 22nd. This year we will be open on Christmas day for a fantastic 4 course Christmas lunch. Places are limited but we do have a few spaces left. Ring for a menu, we would love to see you here. new year’s eve tickets are now available. We have SToRM playing.

They are simply the best rock covers band in the area.

I would like to thank all my staff, family customers and friends for helping me get through a difficult year … Friends are like tea bags: you don’t know how strong they are until they are in hot water . And a couple of my friends (you know who you are) certainly came through for me this year.

THank you. a very merry Christmas to you all.

And finally, a woman goes to the Doctors in Glasgow, worried about her husband’s bad temper and threatening manner. The Doc’ asks “What’s the problem, Janet?”. The woman says: “Weeell Dr. Cameron, i dinae know what to do. every time ma hubbie comes hame drunk, he threatens to slap me aroon’ The Doctor says.”Aye, well … i have a real good cure for that. When your husband arrives home intoxicated, just take a wee glass of water and start swishing it in your mouth. Just swish and swish but don’t swallow it until he goes to bed and is sound asleep. “Two weeks later she comes back to the doctor looking fresh and reborn. She says “Doctor that was brilliant! evrae time ma hubbie came hame drunk, i swished with water. i swished an’ swished, and he didnae touch me even once! Tell me Doc...whit’s the secret? How’s the water dae that?” The Doctor says “Janet, it’s really nae big secret. The water does bugger all - its keeping your mouth shut, it’s that that does the trick …”  TooT TooT!!!

BOOkiNgS

 01935 424721

20 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

The

Pub Pages

... lovely new fire in the restaurant to keep the diners snug at The Royal Oak Over Stratton ... come and join in the Carols at midday on Christmas Eve at Dinnington Docks, Dinnington ... New Year’s Day charity walk starting at 10.30am from The Manor Arms, North Perrott, all welcome, please wear the correct footwear and clothing - in aid of the Church Roof ... in Haselbury Plucknett the Chiselborough contingent enjoyed Duck Confit and a very boozy Christmas pudding at The White Horse ... ‘characters that ride horses’ is the New Year fancy dress theme at The Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi ... children can enjoy a Christmas party on Christmas Eve at The Bakers Arms, Martock ... and who will be nominated for an Oscar at the movie-themed fancy dress party

at the Bakehouse Restaurant at The Brewers Arms, South Petherton this New Year’s Eve. Moving on to Mere where you can beat the winter blues with money saving offers for the New Year at The Walnut Tree ... there is still time to buy your raffle tickets for the Christmas Draw - taking place on the 23rd December at The Dolphin Inn, Peacemarsh and at The Phoenix they do a very good frothy-coffee according to Philip of Scenes.

Cantering on to Castle Cary where The Bay Tree has reopened in South Street ... see the New Year in - in style at The George Hotel ... take advantage of the ‘free taxi for each booking’ on New Year’s Eve (within an 8 mile radius) at The Queens Arms, Corton Denham ... Racing Packages are now available at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague ... and due to the success of the musical evening recently held at The Manor House Inn, Ditcheat, another is planned. And finally ... it just rem a ins for us here a t T he Visitor to remind readers to ‘support your local pub’ and to thank all our landlords and landladies for their continued support throughout the year.

May you all have a jolly Christmas and a peaceful, healthy and prosperous 2013.

The Halfway House Inn Country lodge CHIlTHoRne doMeR nr. yeovIl Tel: 01935 840350 • Fax: 01935 849006 www.halfwayhotelyeovil.com

Delicious Sunday Carvery – £7.95 Beautiful Lakes & Garden ideal Wedding Venue

Dining? why not stay the night?

Reduced Rate Accommodation for Diners – 20 ensuite Rooms  Full Menu neW yeaR’S eve  ReAL ALeS • FuNCTioN RooM • LAke & GARDeN • Proprietor: Paul T. Rowsell FBii



a2B Mobility of Martock

If you are having trouble getting out of your chair a rise and recline armchair could be just the answer. At the press of a button the chair will gently tilt so you can get up with ease, or alternatively the foot rest will extend and rise so that you can put your feet up. They are available in a choice of styles and colours at A2B Mobility priced from just £450.

A2B have a full colour brochure of living aids which can make life

easier for the less able, such as grippers to undo jars, long handled scissors to cut toe nails and magnifying ‘sheets’ to make reading the paper easier.

A2B have a wide range of scooters - new and used, and offer on-the-premises servicing.

Why not call in and discuss your requirements?

Heavy Horses experience days 

Purchase a gift voucher for a friend or family member so that

they have the chance to experience the thrill of working a gentle giant.

Swainsford Heavy Horses Experience Days are designed to give participants a taste of handling, harnessing and working with a heavy horse.

Participants will learn how to harness a horse to pull an implement and to have the pleasure of driving a heavy horse in a cart.

Swainsford Heavy Horses - 10 horses which are Percherons and Coloured Draft ranging in age from 1 year to 21 years.

The courses are held on the farm at Broadwater Farm, Mere, Wiltshire close to the Dorset border.

The days are suitable for anybody over the age of 13 and cost £100.00, this includes lunch and refreshments. Discounts are available for two or more people booking together or for additional days. For further information on their courses or to book or purchase a gift voucher visit www.workinghorses.co.uk, email richard@workinghorses.co.uk or contact Richard Branscombe on 01747 860879.

Email: richard@workinghorses.co.uk • Website: www.workinghorses.co.uk

hri m erry c sTm a s racker Have a C tmas s of a Chri

Christmas Gifts  Cosyfeet Slippers Plenty of gift ideas for all the family at Wheathill Garden Centre in Milborne Port, from books and stationery to tools and toys. Not forgetting festive house plants of course, such as poinsettias and cyclamen.

Wheathill Garden Centre Plenty of christmas gift ideas  Books, Tools, Stationery, Bronnley Toiletries etc.  christmas Decoration Department  Good Choice of CHRiSTMAS TReeS Holly Wreaths & House Plants  Bird Tables and Feeders  Plus Good Range of Bird Food 

 Triwalkers £89

 Scooters

 Rollators £99

 Rise & Recliners ... from £450

... and more!

Beat the Winter Rain

 Living Aids

hAve A CAnopy FiTTeD on youR SCooTeR ... from £400

Stairlift Hire

For a Complete Range of Mobility Items

... from £25 per week

Closed from Fri. 21st Dec. Re-open Wed. 2 nd Jan.

On the Premises Servicing

★ don’t forget to visit our TeA rooms for delicious fAYre ★ ThAnks To All our cusTomers for Their supporT And Wishing Them All A VerY merrY chrisTmAs

Units 1 & 2, great Western Road, Martock

Wheathill Lane, Milborne Port, DT9 5EY Tel / Fax: 01963 251500

SALES - SERVicE - REpAiRS

oPeN: 9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday and 10am – 4pm Sunday

07917 145839 Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm Saturday 9.30am - 12noon Other times by appointment

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 21



Papertrees

Papertrees offer an excellent choice of books for all ages and tastes - some currently on promotion at half price.

If you can’t decide there is always a book token to the value of your choice.

Diaries and calendars are in stock for the coming year. For the home office there is an extensive

range of stationery and office requisites - anything not in stock can be ordered from their catalogue for prompt delivery.

Readers will be pleased to know that there will be a newpaper delivery service available in Wincanton in the new year - just call in or telephone Papertrees with your requirements. 

Crossroads Pet Supplies

Look after the wild birds this winter - at Crossroads Pet Supplies on the Sherborne / Yeovil causeway. They have an extensive range of birdseeds and feeders at very competitive prices.

The family pet too is well catered for - beds and leads, Christmas stockings and treats, hutches and bedding can all be found here!

Plenty of free parking outside the door too.

Andrea’s Florist of Yeovil will send flowers through Interflora locally, nationally and internationally, just call 01935 706526.

Neigh-bourhood Watch, limited edition print by Mary Herbert 10”x10” £75 framed, available from Martock Gallery, Martock.

‘settling old scores’

Flowers say so much!

Limited edition Print - 16" x 13"

by JoNAThAN WALkeR £105 framed others available by the same artist

“Merry Christmas” - “Happy New Year” - “Thank You”...

BOuquETS • aRRanGEMEnTS • PLanTS

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

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 TO m e r al l ry c Ou hri r c sTm us TO a s me rs

Books - the perfect Christmas gift for all the family ...

New Christmas stock now in

HaLF PRICE BOOKS WHO I AM

 nATionAL Book TokenS 

Stocking Filler Toys & Games • Full Range of Stationery for Home and Office

★ nEWSPaPER DELIvERY SERvICE ★ From Monday 7th January ... call for details

open: Monday – Friday 7am – 5pm, Saturday 7am – 2pm, Sunday 7am – 12noon

33 High Street • Wincanton

Tel: 01963 32356 • www.papertrees.co.uk 22 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

open: Monday – Friday 9.00 – 5.00, Saturday 9.30 – 4.30

Dog tired of high prices? visit

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 .

More than just mobile phone specialists        

Mobile Broadband Solutions Phone unlocks Small Business Tariff Checks Repairs  Accessories Home Phones Fully Fitted Hands-Free Car kits Tablets - wifi & 3G  ebooks Senior Phones - big buttons

ng Wishi u o Y a Merry s ma Christ

plus of course an extensive range of ... sim-free mobile phones!

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



Ward & Sibley

Pictured left: New lines have been introduced at Jazziez of Crewkerne this Christmas including personalised jigsaws from £8, Placemats and coaster sets (4) from £20, Doorhangers from £5 plus of course their usual selection of mugs and sweatshirts etc. - turn your photo into a gift this Christmas.

Ward & Sibley Jewellers of Yeovil are open ‘til late on Thursday 20th December and on Sunday 23rd for your last minute purchases. A traditional family run business you are sure to find a gift to suit your requirements from an extensive range of watches through to a stunning range of jewellery to suit most budgets. Ward & Sibley offer a repair service, engraving and valuations. Sally and Steve wish their customers the compliments of the season. 

elegance Beauty Clinic

If you're stuck for a gift this year pop into Elegance Beauty Therapy Clinic where they have everything from stocking fillers to luxury gifts.

Starting at £1.75 red, silver or pink glitter nail files and make up bags to match at £4.99. Make up jewels £4.99 are not only an attractive present but hold four eye shadow colours. If you want something a little bigger the heart to heart palette holds 49 shimmering eye shadows, 6 lip glosses, 6 blushers and 3 powders for only £12.99.

Black and white vanilla candles come in sets of three for £3.99 or on a stone tray for £5.99.

Tisserand have gift sets from £10 to £14 in three different fragrances wild rose, lavender and essential oils and he-shi can offer something a little different with their silver and gold self tanning sets at £33 and £42.

Of course if you can't find anything to suit gift vouchers come in any value and are always a welcome gift.

Have beautiful Christmas! 

acorn Music

Acorn Music is an Independent Music Store stocking thousands of

Established 1983

Élégance

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 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 collections and will arrange for collection.

For further information telephone 01935 425503.

Music Books - Guitar accessories ukuleles - Recorders Drumsticks Still stocking the Widest Range of cDs for miles around classical - Jazz - Folk - Blues - Rock and lots more  AcORN VOUcHERS MAkE iDEAL giFTS  CD and DVD Collections in good condition bought for CASH Collection Arranged Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/acornmusic

Beautiful Gifts for Christmas ... ... whatever your taste or budget LATE NigHT THURSDAY 20th December until 8pm OpEN SUNDAY 23rd December

Beauty Therapy Clinic

“have a Beautiful christmas” Full Range of Beauty Treatments  Stocking Fillers & Gifts  ... from under £2  GiFT VouCHeRS 

Sandie Barrett

M.B.A.B.Th.C. • C.I.D.E.S.C.O. A Ladies Only Salon 8b Church Street, Wincanton (01963) 34115

cUSTOMER cAR pARk AT REAR OF SHOp

Ward & SiBley The Jewellers of Yeovil

The Casket, 103 Middle Street, Yeovil • Tel: 01935 474065 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 23



Mike’s Music

Situated in the George Precinct, Crewkerne’s Mike’s Music is a family run business that caters for all guitarists’ needs, with a wide range of guitars to suit all abilities and styles - including secondhand Gibson and Epiphone guitars. Mike also teaches the guitar.

Proving very popular this season are Ukuleles as more and more schools introduce them in to their musical curriculum. Gift vouchers are available - an ideal present.

Pictured left: Scenes of Gillingham have a comprehesive range of books on arts and crafts - an ideal Christmas gift.

Full Range of Artist Materials

For the pRoFESSioNAL or AmAtEuR ARtiSt ...

Acrylic - Watercolour oil - easels - paints Brushes High Street, Gillingham Books etc.

Tel / Fax 01747 824050 email: scenesol@aol.com • www.scenes-online.co.uk

Turn your photograph into a work of art with a canvas wrap from Camelot Photographic of Wincanton. A warm welcome awaits from Zibi Kopyto, pictured, who has recently joined proprietor Graham Hiscock to assist with photographic processing.

It is always a pleasure to receive flowers unexpectedly, whatever the occasion ... for local, national, or international deliveries, contact Mayflowers at 2a High Street, Gillingham.

ike’s Music MThe Music store in Town Guitars & tuition entry Level Clarinets, Flutes, ukuleles, violins and Accessories Sheet Music, Music Books & Gifts

✴ Merry Christmas to all our Customers ✴ The George centre, crewkerne

Tel: 01460 77728 • www.mikes-music.co.uk

24 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

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

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Famed for fine food, real ale and excellent accommodation Thanking all of our customers and friends for their continued support A veRY MeRRY chRiSTMAS from Tom, Ann & Staff

essing Hairdr fort of m in the co home n w your o

Sandra White Mobile HAirDreSSer

SpeCialiStS in. ★ Tyres ★ Batteries ★ Wheels ★ exhausts ★ Laser Wheel Alignments ★ Computerised Wheel Balance pETROL & DiESEL AVAiLABLE Wishing all our customers compliments of the season and looking foward to seeing you in 2013

The centre garage CaSTLE CaRY Tel: 01963 350243

TONY’S FISH & CHIPS opeN: Tuesday to Saturday Inclusive 12.00 – 2.00 • 5.00 – 9.30 CHriStMAS opeNiNg Closed: Sunday 23rd, Monday 24th, Tuesday 25th and Wednesday 26th December opeN: thursday 27th, Friday 28th and Saturday 29th December Closed: Sunday 30th, Monday 31st December and Tuesday 1st January re-opeN: wednesday 2nd January

Would like to thank her clients for their support during the year.

New ClieNtS welCoMe For an Appointment

tel: 01963 351740 Mob: 07870 230135

Wishing all of our Customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year The

Natterjack inn FreehOuse - resTauranT - accOmmOdaTiOn

kate, Adrian & Staff thank you for your continued custom and wish you a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New year!

evercreech Junction Tel: 01749 860253

Tel: 01458 272532 The Triangle, Pye Corner Somerton, Somerset

Golden Plaice FISH & CHIPS

Opening HOurs Tuesday - Saturday 12.00noon - 1.45pm and 5.00pm - 9.00pm

2 Station Road Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BU Tel: 01963 350566 Fred & Kim would like to wish all of their customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 25

Fabrics & crafts Thank you for your custom We wish you a Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year Open as usual until Saturday 22nd December

Closed from Monday 24th December until Tuesday 1st January inclusive

Open as usual from Wednesday 2nd January 2013 Open Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm

Station Road, Sturminster Newton Dorset DT10 1BD Tel: 01258 472698 • Fax: 01258 473813 www.hansonsfabrics.co.uk

all our Wishing nds and F ts, rie Residen agues a colle s and hristma Merry c New Year a Happy

g all of Wishin nts e our cli f the ents o m li p m on co s a e S Festive

RicHARD p. kEMp B.A.

Solicitor Quality assured legal advice and services for private & corporate clients. open Saturday mornings

Tel. (01935) 822572 31 North Street MARTOck Somerset TA12 6DH

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

26 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

BEEChWOOD hOuSE Care home 60 West Coker road Yeovil, Somerset ... a quality rated home Manager: Mrs. Sandra Barclay

 01935 472793

Dawn & Staff wish all their clients a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year ...

HAIR SALon 45a High Street WInCanTon  01963 34321

South Street Body Repairs Ltd. Family business established in 1993

“ Where the car comes first” ■ ■ ■ ■

Crash Repairs MoT Welding Resprays highly Skilled Repairs

Wishing all of our customers a Happy New Year

■ ■ ■ ■

insurance Claims Restoration projects Low Bake oven Flatbed Recovery

62 South Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1QQ telephone: 01935 411095 • Fax: 01935 473119 Email: mary@southstreetbodyrepairs.co.uk www.southstreetbodyrepairs.co.uk

s Season to s g n i t Gree nts e ti a P all ry Mer mas st r i r h C ll ou to a nts clie

ANDREW M. kNigHT Registered Osteopath Serving Castle Cary and Somerton for 25 Years at

Manor Lodge, castle cary Tel: (01963) 351477

Tel: 01747 826505 The Farmhouse kingsmead Business Park Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5FB

also at

Somerton Wednesday & Friday Mornings Email: osteopath@btconnect.com

Compliments of the season to all advertisers, newsagents, delivery people, readers and contributors, and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year!

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 27

Leisure & Tra vel The david Hall

ON FRIDAY 18th January at 8pm Phil Beer, the multiinstrumental half of the West Country’s award-winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands, will be appearing at The David Hall, South Petherton.

Phil has played music all of his life and been a professional musician since 1975. In the last

36 years, he has played in too many bands and line ups to list fully and lost count of the number of record projects he has been involved in! The most notable sessions in his career range from the Rolling Stones’ album Steel Wheels and Mike Oldfield’s live album Exposed to albums by The Albion Band, with whom Phil toured for the

One STOP ParTy ShOP!

Up In Smoke

Fireworks Galore Festive Lights Balloons Table Decorations Disco Lights & equipment Fancy Dress

45 Brickfields Business Park Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4PX Tel: 01747 835666

Call at our Showroom / Shop www.upinsmoketheatre.com upinsmoketheatre@supanet.com

CJW TAXIS & PRIVATE HIRE of GlASTonBuRy, Somerset

A very caring and conscientious company - Established in 1990 All Drivers and all Vehicles are Registered with Mendip District Council.

All Drivers and Escorts are Fully Trained to Somerset County Council Standards. lady Escorts available.

All Vehicles Maintained and Safety Inspected every 10,000 miles.

Day Trips for Special needs and the Elderly can be arranged in advance by us. Vehicles capable of taking up to 2 Wheelchairs and up to 8 Passengers (or combination of both). You can bring your Carer and we will stay with you, for when you need us for the duration of your trip.

Please call us for more information on

01458 833106

 merry chrisTmas & happy neW year TO all Our clienTs 

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

By John osborne • Answers can be found on page 43 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

With which instrument do you associate Phil Collins?

Who sang the theme to the Bond film ‘For your eyes only’?

Who had a 1982 No.1 with ‘The Lion Sleeps Tonight’?

The Beatles founded which record label? in what year did e.L.o. have a hit with ‘evil Woman’?

‘Make you Feel My Love’ is an Adele hit, but who wrote it? ‘ernie (The Fastest Milkman in the West)’ was a No.1 hit for whom?

8. We associate kevin Rowland with which band?

9. How do we best know Marvin Lee Aday?

10. Lyric; ‘you better stop, look around, Here it comes, here it comes, here it comes, here it comes …’ bonus Question Josh Groban’s debut album went double-platinum, but in which year was it released? great Quotes in music (61) “... you watch Jimi Hendrix literally reinvent the instrument. He was playing from somewhere else. He was really a kind of hybrid, and i can’t even begin to imagine where he came from” - Steve Vai

best part of the 80s – and not forgetting the large catalogue of Show of Hands albums.

In recent years, Phil Beer has been in demand as a record producer as well as a studio musician and he continues to tour full-time with Show of Hands. In addition to this heavy schedule, Phil also finds time to play a limited number of solo shows and is currently engaged in producing a major new solo album, his first for several years.

Tickets: £16.00 full, £15.00 concessions can be purchased at N & D News, St James Street, South Petherton and reserved by calling 01460 240 340 or by emailing: boxoffice@thedavid hall.org.uk or paid for via the website www.thedavidhall.org.uk

PanTo TIMe Tom Thumb

THIS YEAR Shaftesbury Arts Centre’s Music & Drama Group presents the pantomime Tom Thumb, written by Paul Reakes and directed by Sue Cadmore.

This traditional panto with its well-loved characters and funfilled fast-moving storyline will keep the audience spellbound with its surprising twists and turns. Follow tiny Tom Thumb on his quest to save his beloved princess from the wicked giant and his evil henchman, Slugslime.

Running from Wednesday 23rd January until Saturday 2nd February, with matinee performances on 26th & 27th January and Saturday 2nd February, this is a panto for all

Mu

the family to enjoy.

To book: www.shaftesburyarts centre.org.uk or telephone the Box Office: 01747 854321.

Georgie Porgie Pudding and ...!

Christmas will soon be over and the prospect of long winter nights loom ahead. Well, the North Cadbury Panto Group promise an evening of smiles and sunshine to brighten up the January evenings with their production of the Paul Reakes’ pantomime, Georgie Porgie. Paul Reakes is a local playwright with an international reputation for his hilarious scripts and traditional pantos, so it will be no surprise that Paul’s reworking of this classic nursery rhyme will have you rolling in the aisles.

Georgie Porgie is a simple story of confusion and magic. Brave young Georgie challenges a wicked witch for being cruel to a rather remarkable cat. He is rewarded by a spell which condemns him to kiss every girl he sees. (All in the best possible taste!).

Anger and confusion reigns, not helped by the contribution of the dame, Georgie’s good-hearted but bumbling mother. Sit back while the mayhem unfolds before you.

You can see Georgie Porgie at North Cadbury Village Hall on Thursday 24th, Friday 25th and Saturday 26th of January. The chaos begins at 7.30pm each evening.

Tickets cost Adults £7.50, Child £5.00, Family (2 adults and two children) £20.00 and are available from: Ted’s Shop, North Cadbury Rosie’s Tearoom, North Cadbury North Cadbury Primary School, Reception

C M nTH I O R S O F THE

December 21st Mad-doG McCRea - Quicksilver Mail, yeovil 22nd Snake davIS - Quicksilver Mail, yeovil 22nd Real deal - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 26th THe Ray JoneS Band - Wyndham Arms, kingsbury episcopi 28th TIM PITMan’S Christmas Show - Natterjack, evercreech Junction 28th elvIS Tribute - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 31st SToRM - Quicksilver Mail, yeovil January 5th no FIXed aBode - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 13th oPen JaM SeSSIon - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 19th BlaCk MaGIC WoMan - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas An AdVeRT in The pub pAgeS enSuReS A FRee MenTiOn heRe

28 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

Leisure & Tra vel Kitchen Essentials, Castle Cary The George Hotel, Castle Cary Ansford Academy, Reception If you are looking for a Christmas present for friends or relatives that is a bit different then tickets to Georgie Porgie

might be just the thing. North Cadbury Village Hall is a lovely venue, both warm and welcoming.

A great night out is guaranteed for all.

For more details contact Steve Craggs on: stevecraggs@ biomass1951.fsnet.co.uk

Get your New Year off to a great start at the ... vILLaGE PanTO

Georgie Porgie

nORTH CaDBuRY vILLaGE HaLL January 24th, 25th and 26th, 2013 Tickets ★ Adults £7.50 ★ Child £5.00 ★ Family £20.00

Ring: 01963 440184

Cycle-Babble • Cycle-Babble As THe CuRTAIN comes down on a simply fantastic year of cycling for Great Britain, Cycle Babble takes a look back on a truly historic 12 months to bring you its top ten British cycling moments of 2012: 10. lizzie armitstead's silver lining under london's clouds

Two days after the London 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony Britain secured its first cycling medal thanks to a wonderful performance from Lizzie Armitstead in the women's road race. The heavens opened over the streets of London but Armitstead lit up the Mall entering the final moments of the 140km race alongside Marianne Vos of the Netherlands. In the end the Dutch phenomenon proved too strong but Armitstead had started Britain's medal rush.

Echoing her words in the postrace press conference – this was very much a silver won, not a gold lost.

9. JTl prospers in Tour of Britain

Since its relaunch in 2004, the Tour of Britain had not been won by a home-grown rider.

That all changed in 2012 when Jonathan Tiernan-Locke took the overall win thanks to a great ride in Wales on stage six. JTL's win crowned a breakthrough year for the Devon rider who also triumphed in the Tour Méditerranéen, Tour du HautVar and the Tour Alsace. Next year Tiernan-Locke will be riding for Sky.

8. Bradley makes history I

Given what was to come later

in the year you could be forgiven for forgetting that Bradley Wiggins had already made cycling history before the Tour de France even started. Wiggins started the year in scintillating form, winning the season's first significant stage race: ParisNice. He then went on to win the Tour de Romandie and the Critérium du Dauphiné. No rider had ever won those three races in the same year. Hugely impressive. And his year would only get better.

7. Cavendish the undisputed king of Paris

By his own remarkable standards Mark Cavendish had a relatively quiet 2012. For any other rider his haul of 15 wins (including 3 TDF stage wins) would represent a hugely successful 12 months. But Cavendish is not any other rider and 2012 did not see all he can offer. One 2012 Cav moment stands out though: his extraordinary fourth TDF stage win on France's most famous avenue where he was, again, untouchable. The Tour's final stage sprint on the ChampsÉlysées is road-racing's unofficial sprint world championships, and Cav has four to his name now.

6. Trott eliminates all en route to omnium gold

Laura Trott became the darling of the London Velodrome on the final day of racing on the Olympic boards, claiming gold in the 6-event omnium. The 20year-old Trott had started the event well and finished the first day sharing top spot with the USA's veteran racer Sarah Hammer. But day two saw her finish behind Hammer in both the scratch race and the individual pursuit. So Trott went into the final event, the 500m time trial, needing to beat the American by two places.

Roared on by the crowd she finished top of the pile whilst Hammer could only finish 4th.

Trott had her omnium gold.

5. Queen vic secures final crown

London 2012 was the final appearance of Britain's Queen of the track, Victoria Pendleton.

The event started ominously for Pendleton with a disqualification in the team sprint for her and team-mate Jess Varnish. But Pendleton put that disappointment behind her in emphatic style the next day, winning the keirin ahead of China'a Guo Shuang and ensuring her fantastic career would end on a high.

4. kenny sprints to victory

One of the major talking points in the run-up to the Olympic Games was who would get the nod to ride in the men's sprint.

Jason Kenny or Sir Chris Hoy? In the end it was Kenny who got the call and with it came a heap of pressure. Fail to win gold and he would be forever the rider who denied Sir Chris his shot at three London golds. But fail Kenny did not. He stormed to gold without dropping a single race. In the final he defeated Gregory Bauge, the rider many considered the overall favourite, prompting the Frenchman himself to ask Kenny how he did it in the post-race press conference.

3. Sir Chris rises once again

The final Olympic event in the L o nd o n V e l o d ro m e wa s t he men's keirin and it was fitting that the Olympic curtain should be brought down by Sir Chris Hoy. Hoy had been part of the men's sprint team that had started Britain's track gold-rush five days earlier and now the great man brought it all to a close with yet another gold. The atmosphere in the velodrome

had been incredible all week but when Hoy crossed the line in first place, to become the only British Olympian with six golds to his name, CB felt the building shake to its very foundations.

2. Women's three in a different league

In track cycling the width of a tyre or a hundredth of a second often comes between glory or anonymity. For once that wasn't the case in the Olympic women's team pursuit where the British trio of Joanna Rowsell, Dani King and Laura Trott were simply operating on a different plane than everyone else. They recorded a world record in each of the three rounds, including the final where they smashed the USA, winning by over five seconds, a massive margin at this level. Such a display of complete and utter superiority has rarely been seen.

1. Bradley makes history II

Only one event could top this year's amazing achievements.

In July Bradley Wiggins became the first rider from these shores to win the Tour de France. In 98 editions of the race the best result of any British rider had been fourth (Scot Robert Millar in 1984 and Wiggins himself in 2009). Then, in the 99th, Wiggins took the yellow jersey on stage seven and never relinquished it. Wiggins won both time-trials and rode well in the mountains, consolidating his position at the top of the classification. He stood in Paris on top of the podium lauded by the world's media. The magnitude of Wiggins' win cannot be overstated for his is an unprecedented triumph in the world's toughest race. No less a judge than Sir Chris Hoy knows it; he called Wiggins' win ‘the greatest achievement by any British sports-person ever.’

Giles Belbin.

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 29

Family Health with

Jenna evans Seasonal Survival!

‘Tis the season to be jolly – and stressed and over indulged!

Christmas is my favourite time of the year (the lights, the music and yes, I admit, I’m not impartial to the odd pressie and pudding!) so why do I sense I can hear some of you bah humbugging right now?

It is a great shame that such a beautiful, spiritual time of the year has turned into a commercial farce and that many of us find this time either lonely or stressful. As usual though, there are many herbal helpers and super supplements that can get us through – both physically and emotionally - so this month we're taking a break from the 'superfoods' series to focus on seasonal survival.

Oats – Also found under its botanical name Avena Sativa. A good nervine used to treat debility and anxiety. Oats contain alkaloids known to exert anti-anxiety effects.

Especially useful as a restorative in chronic conditions. Oats are also used to help manage withdrawal symptoms from tobacco, so bear this one in mind for the New Year’s resolutions.

Vitamin B5 - Also known as Pantothenic acid. B5 supports the adrenal glands in producing corticosteroids and so has become known as the anti-stress vitamin.

Try a B complex that’s high in B5

to help you through stressful times. st. John’s Wort – One of the most popular remedies for mild to moderate depression, St. John’s Wort has been nicknamed ‘Nature’s Prozac’. Can also be used to manage anxiety, Seasonal Affective Disorder and support the nervous system during the menopause. St. John’s Wort interacts with many other medications by increasing the activity of certain liver enzymes (leading to substances being broken down too quickly) and so should only be used alongside orthodox medicines under the guidance of a practitioner.

Vitamin D – Well where do I start? This vitamin is forever being linked to positively help one disorder or another. Once upon a time it was generally only mentioned in reference to bone health (rickets is a Vitamin D deficiency disease) but now it is increasingly being used for a whole host of problems including immune function, pain management and as an anti-depressant. As most of the Vitamin D we get is produced in the skin via the action of sunlight, it is no surprise that lack of this nutrient has been implicated in contributing to the ‘Winter Blues’.

A popular supplement to take throughout the winter.

Tryptophan & 5HTP – Tryptophan is an amino acid which is a precursor to 5 Hydroxytryptophan, or serotonin, the feel good neurotransmitter. Has been used with some success in the treatment of depression, anxiety and insomnia as well as fibromyalgia, tension headaches and migraines. It should be taken away from other protein containing foods as they will compete for

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Looking Good ... absorption and doses will vary depending on what you are using it to treat. Pop into your local healthfood store for more information.

Dandelion – A fantastic cleansing herb for the liver and kidneys. As a digestive aid and liver tonic, use a root based product.

Dandelion supports digestion by promoting bile flow and can be used as (my favourite) coffee alternative.

Dandelion leaves are wonderful for water retention, acting as a diuretic. Being naturally rich in nutrients they do not deplete the body of minerals such as potassium like many other diuretics. enzymes & Probiotics – If you suffer from indigestion and bloating at the best of times, then you may well benefit from the use of a good digestive enzyme and/or probiotic.

Enzymes break down and assimilate the foods we eat. If they are lacking we can feel the effects with digestive disturbances which could in turn lead to us not getting the full benefit of the nutrients in our diets (or for that matter the supplements we take). Probiotics are the friendly bacteria that inhabit our intestines and form a valuable part of our immunity, protecting us from harmful bacteria and fungi.

Centaury – A bitter herb used to encourage the body to produce digestive juices before a meal. If these juices are not produced at the right time or in the right amount, reflux and heartburn can result. I have seen this herb work wonders for heartburn but would also recommend that a sufferer investigate whether certain foods are the culprits or indeed poor eating habits – such as not chewing food thoroughly or eating on the hoof.

Chromium – The slimmer’s friend. If you have a sweet tooth and are dreading being around all those tasty Christmas treats, this is

the mineral for you! Chromium forms part of the Glucose Tolerance Factor which is involved in managing blood sugar levels, helping to eliminate those peaks and troughs that trigger sweet cravings.

Milk Thistle – No article on seasonal survival would be complete without mentioning Milk Thistle. This is a key liver protective herb that has demonstrated the ability to prevent liver destruction and stimulate new cell growth to replace damaged tissue. The liver bears the brunt of our detoxification process and is a much abused organ. A good herb to take over the festive season to help with the extra burdens.

On a separate note entirely I would just like to mention that healthfood stores are gearing up for Christmas now with a great selection of festive foods. There are some wonderful ranges of ‘free from’ goodies available including gluten free, wheat free, dairy free and sugar free.

I’ll be back in the New Year with more on family health. Until then I wish you all a Happy, Healthy Christmas!

Jenna Evans.

All available from Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. Always check with a health professional before you start taking any supplements.

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Give yourself the edge and win the battle against Flu this winter

Think of a virus as a seed, looking for fertile ground to grow. You can reduce the likelihood of acquiring and germinating an infection by protecting yourself and nurturing your immune system.You can also recover better, without complications, if you do fall ill.

There has been controversy about the flu vaccine in the news recently.

Who should have it? What are the risks and benefits? This is a debate to be had elsewhere, but whatever choice you make, remember there are plenty of simple, natural strategies to follow which help you resist attack from this season’s infections.

optimize your vitamin d levels:

Most people lack optimal levels at this time of year. A strong body of research is suggesting that Vitamin D3 supplements are a good strategy for avoiding numerous health problems.

avoid Sugar and Processed Foods:

Sugar impairs the function of your immune system. Beware of high fructose corn syrups but be wary of artificial sweeteners too!

optimize your Gut Flora:

Replace those sugars with healthy fats and probiotic foods which can improve the function of your immune system. Probiotic, low sugar yoghurt is a source.

Get enough Rest:

It becomes harder to thrive if you're

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tired. Equally, if your body is overly fatigued it will be harder for it to fight the flu.

Have effective Tools to address Stress:

If stress is high then your body will be less able to fight off illness.

Get Regular exercise:

Boosts your immune response and relieves stress.

Take a Good Source of animal-Based omega-3 Fats:

Essential omega-3 fats are widely researched, have huge benefits and used to feature more in the natural diet. Oily fish are also a great source – SMASH = Salmon, Mackerel, Anchovy, Sardine & Herring!

Wash your Hands:

To decrease your likelihood of spreading and catching a virus.

Studies show that hand washers get less infections. Antibacterial soaps are unnecessary, they may cause more harm than good. A simple chemical-free soap is fine.

And of course, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

use natural antibiotics in your daily cooking:

Examples include garlic and oil of oregano. These work like broad-

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look after your physical health:

Including your spine and its network of nerves. We are biological, mechanical, neurological machines. Maintain yourself in tip-top condition, rather than wait for symptoms to appear. An old bike functions better if taken care of, so do you!

Ben Gait, Mendip Chiropractic.

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The gym is well equipped with

two commercial treadmills plus cross trainer, exercise bike, rowing machine and weights. Pay as you go or memberships available.

Their popular Aqua Aerobics Classes take place Tuesdays 6.30pm – 7.30pm and Fridays 10am – 11am. All levels welcome.

For further information please see the advert on the inside front cover or telephone 01258 817501 or email: info@dairyhousefarm. co.uk or visit: www.dairyhouse farmswimmingpool.co.uk

56 london Road Clinic

56 London Road Clinic offers a wide variety of treatments that can cater for a vast array of health problems. With free parking close by and a calming clinical environment it is an ideal place to help you get where you want to be. We believe that Physical health enhances Psychological health and here at 56 London Road Clinic we strive to make your treatment as individual as you are. If you have any questions about what we can offer or what we can do to help don’t hesitate to ring on 01963 251860.

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56 London Road, Milborne Port, Dorset DT9 5DW THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 31

House & Home Take Charge of your Heating!

With hard-pressed families facing huge energy bills this winter, the national Heating Helpline urges households to take charge of their heating system by keeping it under control.

New research shows that national incomes fell by 13% this year compared to the start of the recession four years ago. The last news that hard-pressed families needed to hear was the current round of price rises by the Big 6 energy companies, with some

going up by an inflation-busting increase of 11%. This takes the average dual fuel bill to around £1,300 year – a big chunk of household budgets. Faced with these spiralling fuel bills Heating Helpline, the free consumer advice service operated by B&ES, the Building & Engineering Services Association, is urging homeowners to take charge of their heating systems to save money.

As the Helpline points out; 84% of domestic energy consumption is used for heating and hot water, with 60% alone used on heating. Taking charge of your heating system is now a top priority and will help keep energy use, and bills, down. Here are the top 5 tips for taking charge of heating in your home:

1. Turning your room thermostat down by just 1ºC could save over £100 a year and you will never notice the difference.

2. If you have an adjustable thermostat for your hot water you should set it to no hotter than 60°C (140°F). Any higher is a waste of energy and could scald; much lower and there may be a risk of harmful bacteria forming.

3. Turn down the radiators in any spare rooms; why pay for a warm space with nobody in it?

4. Replacing your old manually operated thermostat with a modern programmable electronic one will provide far greater control over your home’s heat by giving you the

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32 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

House & Home ability to set precisely when the heating comes on and at what temperature.

5. Installing thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to every radiator (they cost a few pounds each) means you will be able to manage the heat in each room.

The Heating Helpline website is packed full of money saving tips and also has an easy-to-use search facility to find local reputable registered heating engineers. Visit www.heating helpline.org.uk or call the Helpline free on 0800 810 8303.

Take Steps Now to avoid Condensing Boiler Breakdowns in Cold Weather

Thousands of homeowners have discovered that their condensing boiler suddenly shuts down in extremely cold weather – the Heating Helpline explains why this occurs and what steps homeowners can take to avoid this.

In the past three years the UK has experienced extended periods of extremely cold weather with sub-zero temperatures. Will this winter be any different? No one knows, but one of the unforeseen developments of these extreme temperatures has been the

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THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 33

House & Home widespread breakdown of modern condensing boilers. Since 2005 it has been mandatory for households to have condensing gas boilers installed both in new build situations and when replacing or upgrading their boiler. Now it is estimated there are eight million condensing boilers in homes across Britain and that tens of thousands of these homes have been left without heating over the last three winters as these boilers have shut down without warning.

Blane Judd, Chief Executive of B&ES(the Building & Engineering Services Association) who operate the free consumer advice service the Heating Helpline, comments, ‘Condensing boilers recover a great deal more of the heat produced when gas is burned with the result that some

of the by-products of combustion – water vapour – condense inside the boiler and have to be disposed of, typically through an extra pipe linked to the property’s waste water drainage system. In some cases it has been necessary to route this pipe along an outside wall of the property.

‘The design of such modern condensing boilers includes a safety system which shuts down the boiler in the event that the condensed water starts to ‘backup’ inside the appliance. What has happened during the extreme sub-zero weather the UK has experienced over the past few winters is that the condensed water has frozen in the external pipework, stopping the flow, and the safety systems within the appliance have then shut the boiler down.

‘It is fair to say that when condensing boilers were being developed in the 1980s the heating industry believed that it was entering a world where

winter temperatures were rising and expected to rise still further.

It had been many years since the last seriously cold winter and the weather experts were warning of

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House & Home global temperature increases and certainly not predicting the long periods of sub-zero winter temperatures we in the UK have endured recently. External pipework routes were therefore considered acceptable as it enabled more installation options, particularly when retrofitting in existing properties.

‘Of course there is nothing worse than being in the middle of a period of sub-zero temperatures with a central heating system that doesn’t work. If these extreme winters are here to stay

the best advice we can give is to take preventative measures. We recommend that any household that has a condensing boiler seeks

professional advice from a local Gas Safe Registered installer.

The favoured options the heating engineer is likely to take will be:

* Where possible, have the condensate pipework rerouted inside the property and connected to the

Gary Huke, South West Area Manager for Panasonic, pictured with Simon Beard of Godden & Curtis of Sherborne drawing the winning prize draw entries. The Visitor readers who won first prize of a Panasonic TV were Mr & Mrs A. Cake of Sherborne. The runner-up prize of a Roberts Radio went to Mrs. R. Groves of Melplash, Bridport.

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House & Home property’s internal drainage system. * Have ‘trace heating’ fitted to the external pipework to keep it warm. * Change the external pipework to one with a larger diameter – some research suggests this can reduce the risk of freezing and pipe blockage.

‘Some proprietary products have also come onto the market specifically designed to overcome the problem’.

An easy way to locate a qualified, reputable gas installer is to use the Heating Helpline website at: http://www.heating

JOHN HAMBLIN

helpline.org.uk or call them on 0800 840 4069.

Issued on behalf of (B&ES).

In winter good lighting in your kitchen is essential

Lighting is very important within the kitchen and it should be given lots of careful consideration, when you think about the different things we do within the kitchen you can understand why.

There are three main types of lighting - task, ambient and feature lighting and getting the balance right to suit your needs is very important. If a kitchen is well lit it can transform the room.

If you are building a new property or new extension then consider getting as much natural light as possible into your new kitchen with big patio doors.

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about adding these before you start. If neither is possible then declutter window sills and remove curtains and thick blinds, and replace with something which

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Some even fold all the way back to let loads of natural light in to the room, or maybe consider roof lights. Even if you are just revamping your old kitchen, think

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Say you saw it in The Visitor 36 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

House & Home allows light to come through the window during the day.

Task lighting is a very important element in the kitchen most cooker hoods have really good lighting built in them so that you can keep an eye on hot pans whilst cooking. Think about the areas you will use to prep food and maybe fit good under unit lighting in that area. Good lighting in the ceiling is very important and with so much choice around you should be able to get something to suit your needs and style.

Believe it or not you can even get lighting to fit within some drawers!

And finally you can get changing coloured glass which can really enhance the mood within your kitchen.

Pop into your local Intoto Showroom in Yeovil and see some of their ideas.

Spring cleaning your kitchen

If you’re feeling energetic after the Christmas break then maybe it is a good time to give the kitchen a spring clean. Without giving the kitchen a regular clean it can soon become a health hazard. You could either spend a couple of days giving the whole kitchen a blitz or you could do a

cupboard or drawer a day.

Firstly make sure you have all the cleaning products that you will need. It’s a good idea to get all the washing up done and packed away. Then you can begin, by tidying all the things from the worktops and then cleaning the toaster, kettle etc. and pack them back out of the way. You can then make a good start on the cupboards and drawers; it may be a good idea to do one at a time, unless you are thinking of changing your kitchen around.

Check dates on food products, throwing away any out of date products. Once everything is out give the cupboard a good wash out with hot soapy water and dry with kitchen roll. Before you pack everything back check if you’ve used things such as pots, pans and china, if you’ve not used it in the past year then you probably won’t use it again. Do you need it or is it just cluttering the cupboard or drawer. If it’s in good condition then your local

charity shop might take it, if it’s chipped or damaged then throw it away. Work methodically through the kitchen cupboards and drawers. The oven, fridge, freezer and washing machine will also need a good clean. Once everything is sorted, cleaned and packed away, the tiles and worktops will need a good scrub and then dry off with a cloth. If you do this ‘spring clean’ once or twice a year and a general clean every week your kitchen should stay looking good. Try and get

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into the habit of putting things back when you’ve finished with them as this keeps the kitchen looking tidy, another way is to get rid of all the magnets etc. on the front of the fridge, which are usually holding lots of pieces of paper, magazine cuttings etc.

Alternatively, if you think you may need a new kitchen pop into Intoto Kitchens, Yeovil and have a look around.

Sandra Fox, Intoto Kitchens, Yeovil.

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37 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

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MOTORING VINTAGE Motor Cycling DEPENDING ON when you are reading this article ... I hope Christmas will be (or has been) all that you wanted. Now is the time to sit down and think about those New Year resolutions that we all make, and sometimes keep.

Now to spoil those New Year feelings with a warning to all readers. I have heard several instances of late where people are being conned out of their hard earned monies. The basic scheme is along the following lines. A person places an advertisement in a motoring magazine in the ‘wanted’ section for some parts needed to keep their old vehicles on the road. Someone will ring in response to the advert claiming to have the vital part which they are willing to sell. A deal is struck. The seller then insists that the money be electronically transferred into their bank before the goods are despatched. This is usually accompanied by a story that this must be done quickly as they are going away for a little while. The buyer, anxious to get the parts, duly does as he is requested. He then waits for delivery, waits some more, and then waits a little longer before realising that he has been scammed and the goods never appear. The offenders rely on our gullability and human kindness.

The money has gone and with no means to trace the culprit. The police can do little in these cases

and if they could then they would be overwhelmed with the number of these offences being committed.

I have no advice to offer, other than to avoid this type of transaction. You have been warned.

Club events continue even through the winter months.

During January the Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section has its AGM and a Quiz on its club night on the 14th. The Somerset Section has a New Years Meet on the 1st at Huntworth, followed by a film night at its club night on the 3rd, and on the 13th they have their Frostbite Run which starts at Polsham. The Dorset Section also has a New Years Day Run on the 1st, which starts at Sturminster Newton. Their club night is on the 9th at Pulham, and is followed on the 13th by the January Winter Run from Stalbridge. As usual get more details by ringing 01935-872528.

I have not mentioned the subject of Ethanol in petrol of late because nothing much has been happening. But now a ray of hope in the form of some common sense is beginning to emerge.

Early next year the government had planned the gradual increase of Ethanol from 5% to a maximum of 10%. This is all in the name of a greener environment. At last the powers that be have recognised the fact that even 5% has been causing considerable problems for many vehicles. They now realise that only 20% of vehicles on the road can tolerate the increase to 10%.

In addition they are now

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concerned that there is insufficient Biofuels available to make the increase anyway. It has also been realised that most vehicles will not run cleanly and correctly on the 10% Ethanol and so make them less efficient and more pollutant. The government are now having talks with petrol retailers and other interested bodies to advise the later introduction of the 10% policy.

From early next year you may see petrol pumps bearing the E10 logo which denotes the 10% Ethanol. My advice would be to avoid these pumps unless you have a fairly new vehicle which has been designed for this fuel.

How long this delay will last is of course unknown at this time.

I have spoken before of how nice it can be riding our old bikes this time of year when climatic conditions allow. Recently the Dorset Section had a Winter Run from Gillingham. A cold day but clear and sunny the weather was kind to us for once. Because there are few events to go to at this time of year it meant that a good entry was a certainty. In the end 36 entrants turned up for a very pleasant ride around some of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire.

My picture this month shows a general view of the starters assembling at the Garden Centre at Gillingham. Warm coffee at the start and a nice lunch at the conclusion meant a good day was enjoyed by all. In the foreground is a very rare Vincent Black Knight which was built at a time when many manufacturers were

trying various forms of machine enclosures, all designed to keep the rider clean and dry. Today all manufacturers produce models incorporating the same ideals.

I am lucky enough to own two Sunbeam motorcycles. Sunbeams were always a high quality product slightly above the mass produced items. They were made in a factory in Wolverhampton which was known as Sunbeamland. It came to my notice that 2012 was the centenary of the first machines produced by this factory.

Sunbeam had been a maker of good class pedal cycles for many years before making the leap to mechanised transport. Later Sunbeam also made cars and continued for many years before the car division was sold off and later became part of the Rootes Group empire. The motorcycles were renowned for having good solid innovative engineering and superb black enamel paintwork and this became the envy of many manufacturers. In around 1931 the giant concern of ICI bought out the Sunbeam company, not that they were interested in making motorcycles, but because they wanted the technology behind the enamelling process.

Sunbeam continued making machines until 1939 when war efforts dictated other work. After the war the factory could not start up again and eventually the Sunbeam brand was sold off to the BSA conglomerate. Later BSA made a few machines badged as Sunbeams and later still a few awful scooters were made bearing the Sunbeam name. A rather ig no m inio us e nd f o r a o nce famous marque. Many motorcycle manufacturers first produced bicycles before making powered two wheelers and most started business in the ten years before World War One which means many of these famous makes are all having centenary celebrations.

Rod Hann.

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GARDENING GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park The Winter Gardener

THE YEAR IS TURNING, thankfully! The winter solstice marks the shortest day and the longest night and I can start to look forward to spring. Don't get me wrong, there are so many wonderful things to enjoy in winter; OK maybe not the cold wet grey days that spread a gloomy feel like a thick layer of peanut butter. I do not like peanut butter - never have, but that's just me. I love cold bright sunny days when being outside is just an absolute joy. Winter walks in this part of the world are a treat and should be made the most of as the pressure of gardening is so much less. Yes there's always plenty to do and

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with short days you have to get on with it, but as plant growth has stopped the gardener has a fighting chance to make progress.

The soil should always be carefully considered. In these parts there are a range of soil types from thin clay over chalk, deep Kimmeridge clay, well drained medium heavy loams and light sandy soils. Wet clays should be treated differently to sands; they need to be left alone

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when wet. In an ideal world, a veg garden on clay would have been cleared in November and left rough dug for the frosts to break down. This year past, the constant wet weather has meant that there were few days dry enough to achieve that end, so we are probably all in the same boat. I am hoping for a few days over the Christmas break to get to grips with the garden as a whole as preparation and

maintenance carried out now will help lighten the spring work load when it comes.

Plant of the month

Short days need plants with impact! Coloured stem from dogwoods and willows contrasting with the stark white trunks of the Himalayan Birches. Dark green foliage of Portuguese laurel and Skimmia. Winter flowering plants often have strong scent for

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Castle Cary (01963) 350881 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 39

GARDENING the simple reason that if they are insect pollinated then they have to work hard to attract the few insects that are about. Viburnum x bodnantense 'Dawn' is a classic example although deciduous it's fragrance fills the air. Hamamelis mollies and other hybrids are less blatant but none the less add to the scent of a shrubbery. These witch-hazels need an acid soil and can be susceptible to late frosts in the early years but have great autumn colour as well as the early flowers. Mahonia japonica Pictured left: whilst you are doing your Christmas shopping at Wheathill Garden Centre, Milborne Port - why not pick up a festive wreath to decorate your door this Christmas!

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has bright yellow 'Lily of the Valley ' scented flowers, and Daphne odora can flower in January - that's a great plant, not too big and difficult to propagate but once established grows well with little attention; but its the heavenly fragrance that gets you. A plant you might walk past without noticing, then you catch the scent and it drags you back to find it! Most of these plants tolerate shady conditions partly as a result of how they have evolved, taking advantage of conditions that many bright showy sun loving summer plants wouldn't even contemplate. A bit like spring bulbs that grow in the shade of deciduous trees. They flower early, do their thing then sleep until the next season as they know they can't compete in summer.

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40 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

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

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GARDENING But one of the real joys of winter is the humble snowdrop, it pokes its head up with pure white or white and green flowers to entrance the winter gardener.

Galanthus nivalis is the common snowdrop and either planted as a bulb in October or transplanted as a growing plant 'in the green' after flowering in late February or March.

Jobs for the month

Clear the rubbish and shift the clutter! A clean start to the year!

That is right at the top of my list along with mend the fence (we have a new puppy so the fence is rising on the priority list!) mend the garden shed, clean and sharpen tools, and get the greenhouse ready. I have given up overwintering too many plants

under glass as I find it more productive to rest it, clean it thoroughly and make an early start with veg showings in January and February. My gardening priorities have changed a bit over the years. Target this year is to make the place manageable and enjoyable with a section of really worthwhile productive ground. Food is expensive and I love the whole concept of eating things you have grown yourself so I want to dedicate a good chunk of my gardening time to that.

Pruning deciduous fruit and ornamental trees and bushes should be carried out in the dormant season provided it is not really frosty as a fresh cut surface can be vulnerable to cold damage.

The exceptions with fruit are members of the cherry plum, peach and apricot family (Prunus) which shouldn't be touched until early summer when cuts can heal quickly without the risk of airborne fungal spores infecting them.

Lawns are best left alone on

frosty days but allow time in February and March to trim edges and possibly repair worn bits with a roll or two of turf. I would also plan to aerate the lawn with a fork and brush in grit sand to help the drainage.

Constant wet this past year has allowed moss to get hold in many places.

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THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 41

GARDENING Weeding is feasible if you can get onto the ground without sinking in; perennial weeds should be lifted with a border spade or fork so that the roots

come as well.

Planting continues for deciduous trees, shrubs and hedging provided the ground is neither frozen or waterlogged.

Don't leave holes dug ahead of planting; best to dig, plant and backfill straight away to preserve the warmth in the soil.

Evergreens are best left until the soils starts to warm with the exception of tubs and planters and you can start these at any time of the year with a nice plant friendly potting mix - perhaps the usual

multi-purpose compost with a little John Innes loam-based compost and coarse grit mixed in to give body and drainage.

There are so many great colourful winter plants to choose from that will enhance the entrance to the house and the patio or terrace, and pots can be moved easily to sheltered places if the weather turns bad.

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the end bit...

Paperchase

SINCE OCTOBER Gillingham has had its own magazine, Gillingham Matters, published by the Blackmore Vale Magazine team in Stalbridge. It follows much the same format as the BVM except that its page size is A5 instead of A4 and it comes out monthly rather than weekly.

And of course it’s considerably slimmer with just 48 pages. Its purpose, according to BVM editor Fanny Charles, is to ‘cover what’s been happening in and around the town, and provide a guide to what’s on and a directory of local traders, services and businesses’, and judging by the first two issues it will do the job very well.

The town’s population has grown immensely in recent years, but the residents have not been well served by the Western Gazette. There must surely be sufficient local advertisers wanting to reach this large potential readership to sustain a very local publication, although I seem to recall that several years ago Liz Fricker tried her hand at producing a free monthly community magazine called Gillingham News. It’s a long

higher Farm, Sutton, ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • mob: 0777 163 2221 time since I saw a copy and assume it folded, but if anyone can make a success of a Gillingham community magazine it’s the BVM. Another Visitorland town that can boast its own community magazine is Bruton. When The Dove first appeared in February 2009 I commented in this column that ‘it must be a huge act of faith to launch a new community magazine, dependent on advertising revenue, in the depths of a recession’ and added that ‘stylish sums up the entire magazine – the design, the typography, the layout and the cover photographs all ooze elegance; the proof-reading is exemplary; the printing is crisp on good quality paper. In other words, it’s not a cheap job, but you can pick up a free copy from countless shops, offices and pubs in and around the town. So who is the brave publisher? None other than the dear old Church of England in the shape of Bruton and District Benefice.’

When it was first launched the A5 magazine ran to 32 pages. Over the past four years it has grown to 64 pages and has just won the 2012 National Parish Magazine Award, beating 890 entries from across the country. It continues to carry plenty of community news, events listings, a pub and restaurant directory and feature articles, so it is very much more than just a church magazine, and despite the recession it seems to be succeeding in attracting enough advertisers, including some from outside its circulation area, to pay the bills

42 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

of what is clearly not a cheap production.

The publishers of The Dove are a group of enthusiastic volunteers whose considerable skills are reflected in the magazine’s success. The publishers of Gillingham Matters are part of a big newspaper group – for some years Trinity Mirror and currently Northcliffe Media, which in Visitorland also owns the Western Daily Press, Bristol Evening Post, Western Gazette, the titles in the Mid-Somerset Newspapers’ series and their various freebies. Northcliffe revealed in November that its stable of regional and local

papers is being sold to a new venture called Local World, which will also include the regional newspapers of Iliffe News and Media, publishers of the Cambridge News. While monopoly of ownership doesn’t necessarily mean monopoly control of views expressed and advertising rates charged, it’s a worry at the back of my mind. I just hope that it doesn’t lead to any significant changes to the content of the popular Blackmore Vale Magazine.

A headline on page 2 of the 1st December issue of the Western Daily Press announced ‘20p’s worth of added value in the Daily Press’. The small

sudoku

by

T. M.

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

Solution to December

sudoku

Westland Zoo

HERE WE GO AGAIN, dear readers, the festive season and another New Year.

Our Zoo animals have been busy - out and about in the county and getting into all sorts of situations. Steve Atwell, the retired Sea Lion and very popular market trader is back on the scene. He was spotted at Toffee & Sweets corner in the Yeovil Market triangle. He said he’d not been too well of late and went to see his doctor complaining of headaches and knobbly knees.

After a thorough check-up the doctor said ‘I can’t find much wrong with you Steve, I think it could be the drinking’. ‘O.K. then’ said Steve ‘I’ll come back when you’re sober’.

Terry ‘the laughing hyena’ White from the Flight Shed & Erecting Shop still retains his sense of humour ... he walked into the Yellow Wagtail recently with a huge lump of tarmac under his arm and asked for a pint of lager ... and one for the road.

Dorset’s Mad Mike, the excitable Chimpanzee from DMC, was nominated for the job of Police Commissioner but declined as he had lost his whistle and truncheon at the Fancy Dress Ball.

Graham, the sideways walking Hermit Crab, decided to do a bit of ice-fishing as he had read all the books on the subject and was very keen. He found a nice bit of ice, dropped his tackle (Whoops), made a nice circle in the ice and dropped his line. Just as he did so he heard a voice whisper ‘You will not catch any fish in there today’.

With not a soul in sight he asked ‘Is that you God?’ ‘No’ said the voice, ‘it’s the ice-rink manager’.

Finally, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and Best of Luck to Agusta Westland for 2013.

Woody Woodpecker.

Answers to pop music quiz on page 28 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Drums Sheena Easton ‘Tight Fit’ ‘Apple’ 1976 Bob Dylan Benny Hill ‘Dexey’s Midnight Runners’ ‘Meatloaf’ ‘19th Nervous Breakdown’ by the rolling Stones bonus Question – 2001

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

print, written by editor Tim Dixon, revealed that the price of the Saturday issue of the paper was rising from 80p to £1 with immediate effect, in other words a massive 25% increase. The claimed ‘added value’ was that the West Country Life supplement would be ‘printed on high quality paper, stapled and tucked inside the Daily Press’ and the Tesco voucher competition would continue.

The weekday issues continue to cost 50p. Interesting, then, to see splashed on the front page of the 8th December issue above a photo of the West Country Life cover the words ‘Weekend magazine free inside’.

I suppose it depends what you mean by ‘free’.

I was intrigued by this story in the paper’s 6th December issue concerning a Bristol University student who disappeared without trace in 1965. According to the report he was ‘Ross Evans, a bright young medical student – known to his fellow undergraduates as Ross’. It’s reassuring to know that medical students in the 60s could recognise a colleague’s name; I trust they were similarly good at recognising symptoms.

Finally, an email from a reader taking us to task for not spotting and correcting a grammatical error in a cartoon on page 60 of the December Visitor. ‘You are always very critical of errors in the Western Gazette or Western Daily Press but now the phrase ‘Pot and Kettle’ comes to mind,’ she states, adding that ‘Regardless of the source of this cartoon the onus is on the editorial staff to check the spelling and grammar’. Quite right – we are red-faced with shame and apologise wholeheartedly. Helen says she’ll do her utmost to prevent it from happening again.

Chronicler.

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mobile Bars / catering haRRY’S moBIlE BaRS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk BaKERS aRmS moBIlE BaRS - 25 years experience, all occasions. Call lee: 07834 788073.

dog Holidays

REdUNdaNT moToR mowERS, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844. daVE BUYS all TYPES oF ToolS, useable / collectable. Sheds & workshops cleared. Tel: 01935 428975. all SPoRTS PRogRammES and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.

ClaSSICal lPs from 1950 – 1970, also rock, jazz & singles. whole collections sought by private collector. Ring: 07931 837783.

guNS waNteD

By Registered Firearms Dealer Rifles • Shotguns Air Rifles • Air Pistols Any Condition We Collect in Any Area

tel: 07970 742471

situations Vacant

holIdaY FoR YoUR dog. let your dog stay with us when you are away. 24-hour attention and long walks. Fully licensed and insured. Vet approved. References available. Tel: 01963 240650.

Passport Photographs PaSSPoRTS - PaSSPoRTS PaSSPoRTS and I.d. any legislative size. any time to suit you. Easy parking. Tel: graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

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

situations Wanted maTURE ladY aVaIlaBlE for housework, outings / shopping, care etc. over 30 years experience. annie whittick 07592 011818.

FREE TRaININg with TaBS, Yeovil.

Employability, maths, English, CSCS, FlT, SagE. Call 01935 411711.

meeting Place

Genuine Male would like to meet female for friendship, possible relationship, 35 – 45 years old, non smoker.

Tel: 07929 066821

T.V. rental T.V. RENTal - long or short term, domestic & commercial, up to 50-inch plasma. h. R. hodge. Tel: 01460 240645.

musical mUSICal INSTRUmENTS - brass, woodwind and strings, for sale and rental.

Tel: 07974 412269.

Bungalow For sale SoUTh PEThERToN well situated bungalow, mid-terrace quiet location, in excellent decorative order.

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

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

storage SToRagE for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

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

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 43

PhOne - a - FirM Transport & Storage The key to all your storage needs!

Fully Insured Storage at highly Competitive Rates Call us today for a quote!

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

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

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

Security

Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

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

Maintenance and Repairs YOU CAN’T I CAN PAUl ChedzOY Property & Garden Maintenance

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

 01935 472669 ... or

07884 345511

email: ucantican07@aol.com

Trading for over 5 years CuSTOmeR ReFeReNCeS AvAilABle

A. Hamilton

sliding sash window specialist Repairs - Refurbishments - Replacements

Preservation

MAPLE PRESERVATION Electrical Contractors

• damp Control • Timber Treatments • dry Rot • Condensation Control • 30 Year Bonded guarantee

Tel: Gillingham 01747 826960 Mobile: 07881 504426

Plumbing Damian Hoddinott PLuMBInG SeRvICeS Competitive rates for all your plumbing needs Tel: 01963 441232 or Mobile: 07971 676111

MAINsToNEs ElECtriCAl ContrACtorS Industrial, Commercial & Domestic Installations Station Road, Bruton National inspection Council for Somerset BA10 0EH electrical installation Contracting Tel: (01749) 812316 mobile: 07885 625456

Say you saw it in The Visitor

Embroidery raiNbow embroiDerY

Logos a speciaLity all types of Garments ... ideal for Clubs, schools & businesses caLL for a quote

07773 497188

44 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 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

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

Qualified to Advanced City & Guilds Level

Tel: 01935 863071 www.sashwindowtlc.co.uk

• • • • • • • • •

sERvICEs

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

Contact JAMEs CADE on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

Services GOOD POTATOES Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices Anchor Hill Service Station wINCaNToN 01963 32609

THIs sPACE costs just £14.40 + vAT per month To PlACE YoUR ADvERT

Tel: 01963 351256

PhOne - a - FirM Cleaning

your guide to local services

Roofing

JPC Cleaning Services Friendly Cleaning Specialist 20 years Experience – Fully insured

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

Regular Weekly & Fortnightly Home Cleans

SLATiNG & TiLiNG SpeCiALiSTS

ONE-OFF SPriNg ClEANS Window Cleaning ✴ Carpet Cleaning Mobile Car Valeting

Specialists in period and listed properties

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

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

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

Building

Dave Hoddinott FUllY QUalIFIEd BUIldER - ESTaBlIShEd 1973

• Renovations & Extensions • Roofing + Carpentry • Plumbing & Heating • Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling • Painting & Decorating • Electrical Contracting Competitive Prices - No Job Too Big or Too Small FRIENDlY & RElIAblE sERvICE

Tel: (01963) 440256

24 hour emergency call out

Dentures

DENTURE REPAIRS While You Wait Collection & Delivery Denture Advice Mr. C. Dunn

MDS Builders

Registered Dental Technician

01749 812585 www.dunndental.co.uk

• Complete Refurbishments • Extensions • Landscaping • Painting & Decorating Tel: Gillingham 01747 822692 Mobile: 07594 524602 Email: MDSbuilders.org@gmail.com

are you a denture wearer?

De to m nture smi ake y s o le a gain u !

Denture repairs while you wait ...

www.mdsbuilders.org

TERRY NEW DENTAL

“ a professional service from one who cares”

Home visits a speciality

01458 210039

FEbRUARY DEADlINE Monday 21st January

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling • slating GRP Roofing All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact allan Carey

01963 33528 / 07885 723915 Email: allancarey541@hotmail.com

Bourton roofing Co.

Oven Cleaning

 01747 840064

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing. uPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES t I m At ES

... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk

Clock Repairs CLOCk REPAIRS Antique and modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Mister Oven

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk

Driving Tuition FASTRACKdRIVING.CO.UK Pete Martin

Tel (01935) 477582

Communications 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

29,000 CoPIEs MoNTHlY You should be advertising here

ThE SPECIalIST for ...

Intensive Courses + off Road Facilities for under 17s

Tel: 01749 860010 07962 401166

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

THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013 45

Paving

your guide to local services

PhOne -aFirM Fires/Chimneys

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

Plastering

Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service

Removals

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

highly Competitive Rates Regular london Runs Short / long Term Storage

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

Logs

Your Advert

LogS For SaLe Seasoned

01747 860543 / 07969 736011 FREEPHoNE

trailer loads ★ free local Delivery bags available for Collection

THIs sPACE costs just £14.40 + vAT per month

ring chris

To PlACE YoUR ADvERT

07773 497188

Set by Frank Butler

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of the Visitor - please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

2

3

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Across 1.

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SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG to arrive by Monday 21st January.

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46 THE VISITOR Christmas / January 2013

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Winged insect has swallowed nothing very softly: non-rigid. [6] Coal-fired ship has Master confused around the east. [7] Quite a disturbance: firm first mentions movement. [9] Checking other portion to find gold in mould. [5] Quiet mat? Don't know sign. [5] Cast tear with grief around old room-heater. [4-5] E.g. BA, developed from type of fine crack (headless). [7] Tiny, put back in mine with bird.

[6] Corner after first ball? Pretty near the hand! [6] Ten in lacy halves with property of hiding. [7] Sing about evil woman: That's making a change! [9] Thread through, concerned with Adam's wife. [5] First class about liberal with an excuse. [5] Red planet broken up and put back in bed. [9] The French man at the wedding has space for his feet. [3-4] uN returned diaper without hesitation; money owing! [6]

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Struggling to manage oriental ruler. [5] Roving martini, go around. [9] Limo with heat adjusted inside somewhat? [6] Pie, containing very strong first liver and tripe. [6] Working out how e-railings might be altered. [9] Please come in, thanks, fashionable. [9] Saying "two farm animals beneath last gate". [7] use LPG to get lifts. [3-3] Eyed lid and gave way. [7] Sicken under donkey attack. [6] Capital air in company. [5] Old art, brought back for more.

[5]

Solution to Crossword 314

Down 1.

26

www.rdsremovals.co.uk

FEbRUARY DEADlINE Monday 21st January

Tel: 01963 351256

Prize Crossword No. 315

1

0808 108 8366

East Lydford 01963 240185 or Mobile 07811 211586

4.

Blooming well if such a change was made. [7] Dormer, minus 500, leaving just the shell. [5] Go "ping" around irish loch on an arable farm. [9] Hot spot where uN are kept by retaining band. [7]

THE WiNNER of our Crossword 314 was Mrs. V. Barrett of Shaftesbury, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Thorngrove Garden Centre, Gillingham.

Timber Buildings Maintenance, Building and Renovations Nigel Lee and Neale Gear want you to know ...

CLEARVIEW STOVES

The leading manufacturers of clean burning wood stoves 

BritiSH MAde and a unanimous hit with our many customers.

Over 300 Stoves, Cookers and Fireplaces on display with many working models • Full installation Service



SHOWROOmS OpEn SIx DAyS A WEEk

SANDPITS HEATING & HOME STORE



LARgE CAR pARk AT REAR Of pREmISES

HIgH STREET, CuRRy RIVEL, LAngpORT  tel: 01458 251476 • www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk Warm wishes to all our customers this Christmas – and a happy 2013

■ We undertake building work, renovations and barn conversions ■ We supply quality bespoke timber framed buildings ■ We offer a maintenance service on timber buildings such as garages, loose boxes, and workshops ■ We are pleased to have The National Trust, Millfield School and Somerset County Council amongst our clients

Sparkford • Yeovil • Somerset • BA22 7LH

Tel: 01963 440414 Visit our website: www.sparkford.com to see our extensive range or call in to discuss your requirements