The Visitor Magazine Issue 372 November 2014

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

Add style and warmth to your home with a WOODBURNER

Your local independent monthly journal  01963 351256 · www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Issue 372 November 2014

FREE copy Your

He’s bringing a friend ... says he’s a real sweetie

OVER 300 APPLIANCES ON DISPLAY Full Installation Service ...

Chimneys Relined + Flue Systems Fireplaces Created Hearth & Home Accessories Chimney Sweeping

Also: LIVING PRETTY Tea Rooms & Interiors

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476 • www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

SPOILT FOR CHOICE! Our new extensive showrooms offer ...

 Beautiful Beds  Terrific Tables  Stunning Sofas  Comfy Chairs  Desirable Dressers  Office Furniture  Mirrors and More Our stock constantly changes – competitively priced

The Old Vincent’s Showroom Market Street, YEOVIL, BA20 1HZ  01935 412811 Email: info@fitandfurnish.co.uk www.fitandfurnish.co.uk

TOWN CENTRE LOCATION

FREE PARKING OUTSIDE THE DOOR

DIRECTIONS: from Marks & Spencer head towards Court Ash Car Park and past The Pall Tavern. Showrooms 100 yards on the right.

In Passing ...

C

HURCH, pub, shop, school and a cluster of picturesque stone cottages – that’s the idyllic image of a Visitorland village used to attract the tourists. But this image has taken a hammering in recent years. Many rural communities have already lost their school, shop and post office and are now seeing their pub under threat, despite it having been a great British institution for almost 200 years.

Faced with increasing competition from supermarkets selling cut-price alcohol to drink at home, and with the rising cost of overheads and business rates, it’s not surprising that many pub owners – breweries and individuals alike – are taking a hard-nosed look at the return on their investments. Many pubs are attractive old buildings that would convert easily into upmarket houses and sell for a small fortune. So the local pub is fast disappearing as a place where people have traditionally gone, not just for a drink but also for sociability and conversation. Fast disappearing, too, as a place where young people traditionally learnt to drink sensibly under the watchful eye of adults. Gone already from those pubs still open is the old boy in ‘his’ corner with his pipe and a pint, and going are those who are fast finding that drinking at home is the only affordable option. Nowadays some alcoholic drinks can cost less than milk and bottled water in the supermarkets, often less than the publican can buy them from his supplier.

The binge-drinking culture is fuelled by cheap supermarket alcohol consumed at home before drinking and dancing the night away in clubs. Village pubs don’t feature in the equation. Yet the Government persists in targeting all pubs – village pubs, neighbourhood ‘locals’ and historic old inns alike – with increasing taxes and more bureaucratic requirements, at the same time as slashing their customer numbers through such measures as the smoking ban.

If the Government really wants to tackle binge drinking and the breakdown of community spirit it should be supporting

our local pubs instead of strangling them.

Recent research by Dr Ignazio Cabras of Newcastle Business School found that the rural pub is not simply a place to drink.

‘It has become a hub for the community’s infrastructure offering events, support and friendship’, he reports. And a typical rural pub injects more than £80,000 a year into its local community by providing jobs for local people and buying from local suppliers.

The sad fact is that not enough local residents are popping into their ‘locals’ regularly for a drink or two to make them profitable. And if pubs go the way of so many shops, post offices and village schools there will be precious little left in the countryside to describe as communities.

We need to support our ‘locals’ before it is too late and Visitorland’s idyllic images are no more than happy memories of the good old days when every community had a sociable heart.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines

December Edition published Thursday 27th November Deadline Friday 14th November

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 The Visitor Ltd.

Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should 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.

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG

Ltd.

Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Fax: (01963) 350552 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag

Proprietor, Accounts & Subscriptions Helen Dunion Production Manager Jeff Farrow

Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock © The Visitor Ltd. 2014

(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)

CONTENTS

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to confectionery

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 60 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 22 CASTLE CARY - 8 CHRISTMAS GIFTS - 23 CROSSWORD - 62 FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS - 39 GARDENING - 56 G.H. SALES profile - 15 GLASTONBURY business focus - 28 HOUSE & HOME - 50 LETTERS - 5 LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 31 MARTOCK business focus - 18 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6 MERE business focus - 34 MOTORING - 15 MUSIC for the MONTH - 46 NOTICE BOARD - 46 PAPERCHASE - 59 PHONE-A-FIRM - 60 PUBS - 36 SHEPTON MALLET business focus - 47 SOUTH PETHERTON business focus - 16 STREET business focus - 29 THEY SAY - 38 WINE & DINE - 46 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR November 2014 3

ANDREW BARCLAY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BUTCHERS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 • Fax: 01963 31249

NATURALLY REARED MEAT SOURCED FROM THE WEST COUNTRY

★ BEEF from Clanville Manor and Roundhill Farm ★ SAM’S LAMB from Charlton Musgrove ★ FREE RANGE PORK from Somerset ★ FREE RANGE CHICKEN & DUCK from Creedy Carver

NOW TAKING ORDERS FOR CHRISTMAS POULTRY & MEAT

Half Lambs

£ 55

BUTCHERED TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS

From Sam Stables, Charlton Musgrove

TWO

Creedy Carver

Duck Legs

£3.49

Shoulder of Lamb

£5.99kg HALF or WHOLE

★ Smoked TROUT + Smoked TROUT TERRINE from Mere Fish Farm

SEASONAL GAME AVAILABLE

PHEASANT PARTRIDGE GROUSE WILD DUCK

VENISON Haunch – Steaks Diced Stewing Chunks DICED MIXED GAME

PIGEON RABBITS HARE

Delicious Home Made CAKES, DESSERTS, PIES, QUICHES and SCOTCH EGGS

ORDERS TAKEN FOR OUR MEAT AT NORTH CADBURY VILLAGE STORES

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

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

ANNAMMA’S CUISINE ...

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

Free Range Chicken & Duck Eggs

WE TAKE ALL MAJOR CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS

DAILY DELIVERIES TO THE SURROUNDING AREA

4 THE VISITOR November 2014

Letters To the Editor The Royal Air Forces Association

Sir, September is always the time when the Association, and the local Branch, celebrates and commemorates the stunning Battle of Britain victory. For 2 weeks we go on a ‘major offensive’ to reach, and overfly if possible, our annual welfare fund raising target. As we entered the weeks we had navigated over half way to our target of £5000. Happily, and thankfully, the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival always falls within these weeks. We were grateful for the privilege to participate and bring our Association, and what we do, to the attention of such a happy, vibrant throng. As with every other exhibitor, we had an incredibly successful two days; loads of visitors, loads of interest and a very healthy addition to the target. Additionally, as many of the readers will have experienced, we were roving the area politely knocking on doors and seeking donations. As the sorties came to an end and the results were debriefed, counted and recorded, we learned that we had annihilated the target with a record nearing £6900! With a well earned 48 hour pass, great celebrations by all the crews ensued with a delicious lunch in the comfortable atmosphere of the Royal Chase Hotel.

The mission would not be complete without declaring our heartfelt appreciation to all those who have made this campaign possible. Thank you for the tireless energy and service of all our collectors. Thank you to the thoughtful and munificent public,

to those who gave us permission to collect outside their stores, to those who allowed us static tins on their counters and to those that personally donated so generously. What you have allowed us graciously to collect will go towards the £4.4 million that the Association spends annually on the welfare of those that serve, those that have served, and their dependant families.

Tony Edmunds Hon. Sec. Sturminster Newton & Gillingham Branch of RAFA

Have We Gone Conkers?

Sir, What’s happened to the game of Conkers?

I put out a bagful of conkers from my Chestnut tree and not one has been retrieved. Kids used to scrabble around my tree to collect conkers for themselves, but no more.

When I was a schoolboy, Conkers was very much a seasonal game, with kids doing almost anything to ensure a sturdy, winning conker, like baking it, pickling, drying-out etc.

Competition in the playground was fierce for a week or two.

Along with Conkers there were other seasonal games - Marbles, Hop-Scotch, Hoops, Fag-Cards, Roller-Skates and Scooters. Yes, we did have scooters, but not like the more up-market ones they have these days. And the rollerskates were cheap ones from Woolworths - 6d a skate, making a shilling for a pair. Woolworths were known as the 3d and 6d store - no item more than sixpence.

We also played a game with Milk Bottle Tops. The circular card tops with a central ‘hole’ that you pushed through with one finger to remove the top from the bottle. We threaded the card discs onto an old bicycle front wheel spindle and cones for security in

A. J. WAKELY & SONS LTD Independent Family Funeral Directors • Golden Charter Pre Paid Funeral Plans • 24 Hour Service

• Private Chapel of Rest

Golden Charter Brochure available on request Clive Wakely Dip F.D. M.B.I.E. The Old Police Station, Carrington Way WINCANTON BA9 9JS Tel: 01963 31310

our pockets at school. The game, with a friend, entailed flicking the discs in turn gainst a wall or fence at ground level, and if one fell on top of one of your opponent’s discs, you claimed his discs. Many, many discs changed hands. It was similar to the game with cigarette cards really. I think it may have been in the early part of the War, when fag-cards had been phased out from cigarette packets.

Marbles was another similar game, where you flicked or rolled your own marble against an opponent’s, in a roadside gutter.

Highly dangerous when I think about it now, in terms of Health & Safety, but there weren’t the cars about then.

But I’m still here - alive and kicking, at nearly 86 remembering happy days!

Norman Leeks Priams Way Stapleford

Help Wanted

Sir, When I was last in Yeovil hospital I sat by a lady who was crocheting a knee blanket and we chatted about the many she had already made, and what she’d done with them. I, of course, admired it very much, the colours were beautiful, and then we went

our separate ways - she with her husband to the eye clinic and I further up the passage to the chest clinic.

They left before me but before going, she sought me out and presented me with this lovely blanket. She said it was to keep my knees warm, but I shall always think of her and her kindness whenever I use it which is very often.

There was no time to thank her properly and I never got a name, I only know that they live in Frome, but I would like to tell her how much I appreciate her thoughtfulness and kindness, and hope she may see this.

Mrs Evelyn E. R. Buckland Station Road Charlton Mackrell Somerton

Singles Social Group

(Not a dating agency – est 1979) Age range 40 – 60 approx.

Weekly Bar Night Events Include: Walks, Dances, Parties, Meals Out, Theatre, Cinema, etc.

For further details call 01749 330455 • 01278 788077 01458 840958 • 01934 743139

www.singleprofessionalassociation.co.uk

Keep your independence at home with

Make someone’s Christmas this year by setting them up with Careline in 2015

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

Do you …  Live alone or sometimes feel at risk?  Have elderly, frail or infirm dependents?  Worry about their safety in an emergency?  Want to help them maintain their independence?

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

For all new installations booked before 31st January 2015 through this advertisement, we will offer one month free of charge! Please quote this advert when you contact us.

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

Contact us on 01935 479815 careline@southsomerset.gov.uk www.southsomerset.gov.uk/careline Initial connection / setup fee £32.70* Hire and monitoring £3.81 per week *waived if on certain benefits

THE VISITOR November 2014 5

Mentioned in

Dispatches

An Achievement to Celebrate

Independent Family Business, Allum & Sidaway jewellers were delighted when they heard they

were finalists in all four prestigious categories entered for the Blackmore Vale Business Excellence Awards 2014, namely Retailer of the Year, Family Business of the Year, Employee of the Year and Customer Service Award. They joined over 40 businesses, gathered at the George Albert Hotel to celebrate these awards and were honoured to take home the Winner of the Customer Service Award.

Jason Allum.

Yeovil College raises £1,300 for Hospital CT Scanner Appeal

Yeovil College staff past and present have donated three cheques to Yeovil District Hospital’s CT scanner appeal, totalling more than £1,300.

Over £680 came from sales of a popular charity cookbook, Let’s Cook, which contains around 50 tried and tested recipes donated

by College staff.

Level 1 and 2 Business students at Yeovil College also contributed £300 raised through enterprise projects completed in 2013/14.

The final £330 was presented by former Business lecturer Lorraine Dash and sister Vickie Joslin on behalf of their family.

The money was collected in memory of their late mother, who received treatment at the Hospital.

Yeovil Hospital is planning to put the donation towards the purchase of a second CT scanner.

The Last Dambuster has Yeovil firmly in his sights

Johnny Johnson, now in his nineties and the last surviving member of the well documented

Dambuster Raids of the Second World War, is to be the Guest Speaker at a very special charity event at The Tithe Barn, Haselbury Mill on Friday 21st November at 6.30pm for 7pm.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Yeovil, the event is to include a two course meal plus tea/coffee and will provide guests with a unique opportunity to meet and hear a living legend as he relives and tells of that heroic mission of WW2 in which he played an important role as one of the ‘Bomb Aimers’.

All proceeds of the event will benefit the locally based charity, Yeovil Opportunity Group - which provides respite care and special provision for families and children with additional needs and The RAF Benevolent Fund - Bomber Command Memorial - a tribute to the many brave men in Bomber Command.

Principle organiser and Yeovil Rotary Club member Tony Turner advises anyone who would like to attend the event in November to book early and says ‘The club is delighted to bring this very special person to Yeovil and by doing so to lend support for the maintenance and upkeep of an extremely significant memorial in London as well as for a most worthy local charity needing financial support to continue to provide it’s dedicated care and services in our area’.

With the event now just a few weeks away, we strongly recommend that anyone planning to attend should act now and buy their tickets to avoid disappointment as space could become limited.

Tickets cost £16 each and can be purchased singly, in multiples or for tables of 8 or 10. They can be purchased by contacting The Rotary Club of Yeovil on 01935 475448, 01935 475770 or 01935 420051.

Well Done SSDC

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 12.30pm, or by appointment

Morley House, Market Place, SOMERTON, Somerset, TA11 7LX • www.awruleandson.co.uk

6 THE VISITOR November 2014

South Somerset District Council has helped commemorate the First World War by issuing 21,000 booklets to all the school children in south Somerset.

The booklet was paid for by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and was produced by the Community Heritage Access Centre with help from the Imperial War Museum’s 1914 Centenary Partnership.

A character called Daisy takes the children on a journey through life during the First World War in south Somerset and also tells the story of some of the soldiers that went away to fight. The books have been distributed to

Pictured is Vera Upshall of Stalbridge who celebrated her 100th birthday on 27th September with four generations of her family.

Vera’s daughter Myra Hanson, tells us that it was thanks to her mother that she became interested in sewing. Myra is the proprietor of Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts of Sturminster Newton.

all the schools but some schools are waiting until November to pass them on to their pupils.

Richard Powell, Head Teacher at East Coker Community Primary School commented, ‘I was very impressed with the booklets; they are an appropriate and accessible way of teaching our children about the War in the local context. We are going to refer to them in assemblies

nearer to Remembrance Day and teachers will also use them in class at the appropriate level before we distribute them.

‘The older children will certainly access them fully, the younger ones will have their awareness raised and will gradually appreciate the books as they get older.

Congratulations and thanks to all involved’.

The booklets have proved so popular that South Somerset District Council has been approached by schools outside South Somerset for copies. It has also been decided to print more copies of the booklets to sell to the general public, as even though aimed at children, adults have enjoyed the information and photographs in them as well.

The booklets are available at a cost of £5 per copy. All proceeds will go towards the care of the collections at CHAC. To purchase your copy, please send a cheque made payable to SSDC to: CHAC, Lufton Depot, 7 Artillery Road, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8RP. You can also order by telephone on 01935 462855. Alternatively, you can also purchase a copy at Cartgate Tourist Information Centre and Yeovil Tourist Information Centre.

90th Birthday Celebration

In June of this year WWII veterans remembered D-Day at Sword Beach, France. Bernard Howell (pictured below), born and living in Mere, former crewman on the HMS Faulknor was present. Bernard celebrated his 90th birthday at home on Thursday 2nd October, accompanied by his wife Adrienne who works hard for the Mere community, including being one of the main drivers of The Mere Literary Festival over many years, the proceeds of which go to the Mere and District Linkscheme. Bernard received a continuous stream of visitors throughout his 90th birthday at home. Photo: George Jeans.

Ticket Winners

Winners of the tickets to The Festive Gift Fair at the NEC in Birmingham which takes place from 20th - 23rd November are: Miss Anne Unwin of Yeovil; Ms Amy Drewitt of Langport: Mr Steve Chiplen of Wincanton and Mrs Angela Coombs of Yeovil.

The answer to the question: Christmas Day will fall on a Sunday in 2016.

Tel: 01963 33370 | Higher Holton, nr Wincanton BA9 8EA info@elliscombehouse.co.uk | www.elliscombehouse.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 7

Castle Cary’s distinctive Market House, opened in 1855, has recently been extensively refurbished and now hosts a market every Tuesday morning.

HOUSING was the big talkingpoint in Castle Cary when I visited in mid-October.

Apparently developers have generated a lot of opposition by submitting proposals to build on

the fields on both sides of Station Road between the western edge of the town and the bottom of Ansford Hill. Maps of a century or more ago show the village of Ansford stretching along what is

SEWING MACHINE SERVICE CENTRE Repairs & Servicing To All Makes - Domestic & Industrial Collection and Delivery Available

now the A371 and was once an important coaching route from the Dorset coast to Bath, and the town of Castle Cary nestling down in the valley beneath Lodge Hill. Fields separated the two settlements and the road linking the two was Ansford Lane, the hill off the High Street that is

nowadays called Ansford Road.

Housebuilding in the 1970s and 80s effectively transformed Ansford into a suburb of Cary, but much of that growth was achieved without too much harm being done to the countryside setting or the town’s core of historic buildings.

From what I heard, many residents acknowledge that more homes and jobs will be needed in the years ahead to cater for the town’s growing population.

Recent house-building has largely been infilling and small developments within the urban core of Castle Cary and Ansford parishes, but the planners’ preferred option for future development is the land on both sides of Station Road. While many people I spoke with agree, they are worried that considering separate proposals from different developers for portions of the land will create more problems than they purport to solve. Their major concern is the absence of any overall plan for the land to ensure that the right types and sizes of homes are built, that facilities like schools are provided in the right locations, that employment land is developed in tandem with the homes to provide jobs for the new residents, that the development is phased over a number of years, and that the

Embroidery Engineering Services

Suppliers of Computerised Embroidery Machines

Telephone: 01963 350068 • Mobile: 07947 725315 Email: robert_churches@hotmail.com UNIT 8, TORBAY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE CASTLE CARY BA7 7DW

COCK & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS Established Since1957

 Specialists in renovation and restoration of older properties

 Extensions and alterations undertaken

 Specialists in barn conversions

 Purpose built joinery, doors, windows, etc.

All Work Guaranteed

Tel: NORTH CADBURY (01963) 440931 Yard Office adj. Orchard Leigh, Long Street Galhampton, Yeovil, Somerset

8 THE VISITOR November 2014

Dedicated to excellence in animal care for over 100 years

Small Animal, Farm & Equine

★ 24 Hour Emergency Service provided by our own staff ★ and Healthy Pet and Equine Zone Schemes available CASTLE CARY  01963 350307 YEOVIL  01935 474690 info@delawarevets.co.uk • www.delawarevets.co.uk

R. Smith & Sons AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTORS For all Agricultural Work including: Grass, Maize & Whole Crop Silaging Hedge Trimming • Ploughing • Ditching Mini Excavators for: Landscaping, Fencing, Drainage Work etc.

Tel: 01963 351203 or 01749 812510

thorny problem of cars is tackled effectively. Population growth could spell good news for the town’s shop-owners and many local organisations but the increasing volume of traffic it generates could be bad news for the already-congested town centre, the narrow approach roads and the A371.

Development and the changes it brings are nothing new in Cary.

The mid- and late- 19th century gave the town not only a lot of new housing, shops, factories, the gas works and the railway station but also many prominent and much-loved buildings including the Market House. And by that time the town had already spread

tentacles of development towards Ansford. When I visit the town I usually park on North Street or Upper High Street and walk down the gentle hill into the centre. On the way there are plenty of old buildings to look at and admire, especially The Pines dating from the 1780s and fronted in brick with cut stone quoins unlike most of the elegant houses of the period, and the imposing Methodist Chapel built in 1839 on a prominent site high above the street. Across the road is another house faced with brick rather than local stone – Ochiltree House, built around 1825 and once the residence of local industrialist John Boyd.

Unlike most of the elegant early-19th century houses in the town, The Pines on North Street was fronted in brick with cut stone quoins.

Next door and standing well back from the roadside is Beechfield House, erected around 1770 as The Villa but rebuilt in 1881 after a disastrous fire. On the corner of Ansford Road stands Keniston House with its unusual veranda

and opposite is another 18th century building, Northfield House, with its central bay window providing clear views along the High Street and up Ansford Road. Such buildings are all examples of good-quality

Castle Cary Post Office The imposing Methodist Chapel on North Street dates from 1839.

Cards, Stationery, Diaries, Calendars, Soft Toys Medici, Ling, Caspari, Woodmansterne, Gibson and many more Christmas Cards & Boxes H Lamy Pens

H Euros & Dollars on Site: all other currency next day H Passport Checking H Top-Ups H Bill Payment - Car Tax - Post Office Homephone - etc.

DAVE MARSH HARDWARE LTD

Bailey Hill, Castle Cary. Tel: (01963) 350237

The really useful shop!

Full Range of Garden, D.I.Y. and Plumbing Requisites

★ Key Cutting ★ Dulux Paint Mixing Services ★ Fireworks ★ Christmas Gift Ideas Suppliers and Fireside Accessories

Fore Street, Castle Cary •  01963 350316 Also Incorporating

KITCHEN ESSENTIALS

Everything for the Cook and Kitchen ... ★ Stellar ★ Brabantia ★ Judge

 01963 359494

THE VISITOR November 2014 9

Offices at: Castle Cary, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury and Cheddar

Old Bank House, High Street, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7AW Tel: 01963 350888 • Fax: 01963 351107 Email: robin@bgw-solicitors.co.uk • www.bgw.uk.com

The golden stone of so much of Castle Cary provides a harmonious backcloth for the natural colours of Autumn.

provincial architecture, products of the town’s past prosperity. The golden stone of these and so many of Castle Cary’s attractive old cottages provides a harmonious

backcloth for the natural colours of Autumn.

The Ansford Road junction marks the start of the town’s retail centre, and the streets are full of independent businesses offering a wide range of goods and services. With Christmas fast approaching I had planned to write about some of the gift ideas I spotted in the shops during my stroll through the town, but in truth I saw so many that the article would have ended up as no more than a long list – and even then I would probably have failed to mention something special. Instead, you must take a close look at the advertisements in this month’s issue and, better still, come and spend some hours wandering round the shops.

Whatever you’re looking for, the chances are that you can buy it in Castle Cary. A good day to visit is Tuesday; the town’s distinctive Market House, opened in 1855, now hosts a market every Tuesday morning, and when I paid a visit back in April there were a dozen or more stalls

RICH’S AUTO SERVICES ◆ Servicing and repairs on all makes of car ◆ MOTs by appointment TYRES — EXHAUSTS — BATTERIES Get Ready for Winter — FREE Anti-Freeze Check OPEN: MONday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm • Saturday mornings by appointment

Unit 4, Torbay Road Trading Estate Torbay Road, CASTLE CARY, BA7 7DT

 01963 350568 Now available 5 TONNE LOAD DELIVERIES by small lorry

SAND & GRAVEL

NEW

PRE-PACKED COAL AVAILABLE

large and small loads

TRADE ENQUIRIES WELCOME

10 THE VISITOR November 2014

We can deliver to your area inc. Castle Cary, Bruton, Sherborne, Wincanton etc.

For advice or information ring Tim or Heidi or call in and see us

selling fresh fish, speciality breads and rolls, fruit and vegetables, cheeses and chutneys, local meat, wool and haberdashery, soaps and smellies and more. The cobbled Pitching at the side of the Market House provides an attractive access to Bailey Hill, the lock-up and the town’s post office.

Cary’s shopping centre extends to The Triangle at the bottom of

Castle Cary’s shopping streets are full of independent businesses offering a wide range of goods and services.

Heather’s Flowers Prop. Heather Burch – Qualified Florist

Stunning Flowers for All Occasions  WEDDING SPECIALISTS  Bookings now taken for 2015

Cut Flowers – Plants – Accessories Friendly & Professional Service

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

The Place

Fore Street, next to the Horse Pond and overlooked by the spire of the parish church. The Horse Pond is thought to have originally been part of the castle moat and is now the site of the town’s war memorial and a sculptured black swan. Apart from this small section of moat and some indentations in the ground at its site on Lodge Hill behind The George Hotel nothing remains of

Andrew M. Knight

D.O.

Has moved to

Osteopath

Coombedene, Combe Hill Keinton Mandeville Somerton, TA11 6DY

01458 223300 or text 07889 857289

Email: osteopath@andrew-knight.co.uk Web: www.andrew-knight.co.uk

Coffee Shop & Wine Bar Market Place • Castle Cary Tel: 01963 351985

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

Open Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm Friday & Saturday Evenings 7pm – 11pm Christa & Phill invite you to join them in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.

Hot & Cold Drinks, Breakfast, Light Lunches, and Afternoon Teas.

Now open from Friday 31st October for a glass of good Wine, Beers, Ciders, and Sharing Platters.

ALL IN A RELAXED AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT!

THE VISITOR November 2014 11

the castle, which was probably abandoned around 1153.

To see more splendid examples of the town’s architectural heritage turn left at The Triangle and stroll past the church and into South Cary. However, I chose the opposite direction in order to see an early example of local authority housing on Station Road. On the slope overlooking the junction with Torbay Road stands Salisbury Terrace, built at the behest of the parish council and thought to have been completed in 1913, although the Victoria County History gives the date as 1924. Whichever, it is an

attractive example of early 20th century domestic architecture, and one can only hope that 21st century developments further along Station Road will be similarly pleasing.

Roger Richards.

Millbrook raises funds for Macmillan

Residents living in the same town in which the Macmillan Cancer Support charity was first established in 1911 have raised £500 by taking part in The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, a fundraising initiative held in the last week of September each year.

Yarlington retirement living resident, Denys Ryalls, of Millbrook Gardens in Castle Cary, decided to hold a Macmillan coffee morning to raise funds after benefitting from the support and services offered by the charity when her son was diagnosed with cancer.

In a marquee at Millbrook Gardens the community got together to enjoy tea, cake and chatter whilst raising funds. ‘The help from everyone in the community was amazing. I had amazing support from members of the newly formed Millbrook Residents Association, Yarlington

The town’s war memorial stands in the Horse Pond, which is thought to have originally been part of the castle moat.

Karl, The Bosch Engineer.

CHA RL

Now available on selected large appliances*.

Das ist gut!

HILL L

D ITE IM

IE

Quality Butcher & Pie Maker

Round House Farm Shop Bailey Hill, Castle Cary

01963 350260 Open Monday - Saturday

Home-made speciality pies and sausages, Wiltshire cure hams, quality meat, poultry and game.

We wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

ORDERS WELCOMED

HIGH QUALITY PICTURE FRAMING & GALLERY

 Over 35 years experience

 Dry mounting & laminating

 Glass cut T&Cs apply, please see bosch-home.co.uk/boschcash

Extensive range of BOSCH in stock for immediate delivery H FREE local delivery H FREE installation H H FREE disposal of old appliance H

The Triangle, Castle Cary  01963 351110 12 THE VISITOR November 2014

 Conservation framing  Watches & batteries  Tapestries stretched  Mirrors

 Picture restoration Studio 13, The Triangle Castle Cary, BA7 7BD  01963 359050 studio13-online.co.uk

residents at Millbrook Gardens, the general public, local shops and the Doctors surgery. In just two hours we raised £500 which is fantastic - I was thrilled, but couldn’t have done it without everyone else.’ said Mrs Ryalls.

Douglas Macmillan, born in Cumnock Crescent, Castle Cary and educated at Sexey’s school, Bruton, founded what is today known as the Macmillan Cancer Support charity in 1911 after receiving an early birthday present of £10 from his father who was dying of cancer. He used this money to set up a charity to provide support and care for people with cancer. Macmillan’s vision is as strong today as the

charity aims to help make sure no one has to face cancer alone, from the moment they’re diagnosed, through treatment and beyond.

Last year The World’s Biggest Coffee morning raised £20 million for Macmillan Cancer Support as a result of events held across the country.

Macmillan can be contacted on 0808 808 00 00 or for more information about their support visit www.macmillan.org.uk.

The Visitor can now be read online:

Cary’s shopping centre extends to The Triangle at the bottom of Fore Street, overlooked by the spire of the parish church.

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

The

Martins of Castle Cary

01963 359100

Market Place, Castle Cary Tel: 01963 350208

www.castlecaryclockshop.co.uk Antique Clocks Bought ~ Sold ~ Restored

Delicatessen • Grocer • Off Licence

OPENING HOURS Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm

Open: 8.15am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

Specialising in Food from the West Country

CLOCK SHOP

The Pitching, Market Place Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7AL

The Market Garden

Project Design & Advice

 Soft Landscaping – Turfing, Flower Beds, etc.  Hard Landscaping – Patios, Driveways, etc.  Garden & Estate Management

 One-Offs or Regular Maintenance Lawncare, Beds, Borders, Trees, Shrubs

 Now incorporating Three Counties Tree Services Ltd. Tree Removal, Coppicing, Pruning, Planting, etc.  New Builds and Garden Design

 Commercial Floral Displays Christmas Tree Supplies

 Plant Search & Supply

Delicious Fresh Fruit &Vegetables  Veg’ Box Delivery Scheme – 5 mile radius of Castle Cary and Wincanton

 Autumn Bedding Plants / Winter Hanging Baskets

10% OFF DURING NOVEMBER with this advert

 Floristry – Bouquets, Weddings, Funerals, FREE Local Delivery  Fruit Baskets to Order  Orders taken for Christmas Trees, Holly, etc.

Hart House, Fore Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BQ

Office: 01963 31226 • Quotes: 07738 524254 • www.julianshave.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2014 13

Business Update

Calling all Party Animals

The Proper Pet Co. in Station Road, Castle Cary will be

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

14 THE VISITOR November 2014

celebrating their first Birthday on Saturday 15th November by holding a Doggy Party!

The party will be run from 9.30am until 4.30pm and dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome to visit the shop. Every canine visitor will be treated to a LILY’S KITCHEN dinner, an ORALADE Chicken Flavoured Drink and a slice of OGGI’s OVEN Birthday Cake while they are there.

There will be special events as well. Animal experts from Delaware Veterinary Group will be on hand to chat to owners about their pets and, just in time for Christmas, there will be the opportunity to have a Pet Portrait Photograph taken.

As a special birthday present to all customers on the day, everything in the shop will be reduced in price by 5% and a

QUALITY FENCING PANELS AND TIMBER C L A NV I L L E S A W M I L L S LT D Clanville • Castle Car y (on the B3153)

Monday to Thursday - 8am to 5pm Friday - 8am to 4pm

Castle Cary (01963) 350881

raffle run during the day will be in aid of Happy Landings Animal Rescue.

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I START THIS MONTH with the accompanying picture.

Several Dorset members recently went down to Cornwall for their first Weekender, which is a three day event of riding around the picturesque parts of Cornwall.

My picture shows a granite built bridge high on Bodmin Moor and atop the bridge is Marie and Maurice McGladdery from Stalbridge riding their BMW machine. Many of these ancient bridges have survived which gives testament to their construction centuries ago, but it is surprising considering the size of modern lorries and agricultural tractors and machinery these days.

November always seems a sad month, sometimes rather damp and dank, with the prospect of a long winter ahead. Hardy souls of course keep riding and there is still plenty of events to choose from. The Somerset Section has its Guy Fawkes Run from the Banwell Garden Centre on the 2nd, and this is followed on the 6th by a guest speaker for their club night at Cossington. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section has a guest speaker at its club night on the 10th, this will be a talk on Nimbus motorcycles. The Dorset Section also has a speaker at their club night on the 12th at The Halsey Arms, Pulham. This is followed on the 16th by a Winter Run, this time from the Orchard Park Garden Centre at Gillingham.

Dorset also has its usual Lunch Meet on the 5th and its Breakfast Meet on the 29th, both at West Stour. Ring 01935-872528 for more details.

As I write these word in early October it seems that our glorious summer is about to come to an end. It has been a good summer as I can hardly remember an event affected by the weather. As the riding season declines for the winter months it is good to recall past activities and be thankful to the organisers who make all this happen. Now is the time that the VMCC, and most other clubs, start planning for next year and the booking of dates and venues.

So many events inevitably means there will be some clashes of dates, which need not be a problem providing these clashes are not too close geographically.

MOTOR ING

GLIDEROL GARAGE DOORS

Graham Haskett celebrates 25 years trading as G.H. Sales – Gliderol Garage Doors

25 YEARS AGO, back in 1989, I attended a trade exhibition in Earls Court, London, helping a local firms promotion. At the event, showing their garage doors was GLIDEROL. I thought that the product was strikingly good, practical, simple and efficient design. At the time they had no distributors in the south west, and so started my new career to supply and install doors around the area.

To get around I started off with a car and trailer, and moved onto a Toyota pick up which was a very successful and practical mode of transport. Some years ago at a motor festival I saw a Holden pick up from Australia, and was impressed with the design.

As GLIDEROL is an Australian company which makes garage doors in sixteen countries around the world I thought it would be novel to have an Australian pick up (ute) to work with. So with the help of the world wide web I bought a four year old Holden (special edition) from a Holden dealership in Epsom, Bendigo, in the state of Victoria, and had it shipped from Melbourne to Southampton. Now its roaming around the roads of Somerset and Dorset in my daily routine.

 If you have a need to replace your garage door with a manual or automatic roller garage door let me know and show me this feature to get extra keys for a manual door, or an extra handset for an automatic door included in the price.

G.H. Sales – call Graham on

 01935 891414

Whether its a standard garage or a special construction like the photo, with infill panels and fascia, a GLIDEROL door could be the answer. Call for a free survey.

THE VISITOR November 2014 15

MOTORING

It takes good planning and a bit of ‘give and take’ to reduce these clashes to a minimum to the benefit of all interested parties.

Go to your Section or club Secretary and volunteer to do whatever you can to help, the more involved you are the more pleasure there is to be gained from our hobby.

Most classic bike clubs are dealing with an ageing membership with few new young (probably 50 years and under could be looked upon as young) members joining. As a consequence it is fascinating to see the changes in machinery being used. Some years ago a Bantam or Tiger Cub or something with a Villiers engine would seldom be seen. There is nothing wrong with these machines but everyone wanted to ride something of 500cc’s or above, and the sportier and faster the model the better. This is silly of course because we only potter around slowly like the old fools that we are. Now I see a slow alteration towards these smaller engines and lighter weight machines which allows their owners to keep riding when they may not otherwise. We also see more and more small Japanese machines being used, mainly because they have electric start.

Old motorcycles, like almost everything else in life, goes through phases and fashions. The smaller machines were ‘looked down upon’ for many years but now back in use they do add variation and

● ● ● ● ● ●

interest to our pastime. Long may they continue to give good service and miles of fun.

I mentioned earlier that the Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section will be having a talk on Nimbus motorcycles. This is a make with which I have had little dealings so thought it appropriate to do a little homework, and the Nimbus history is quite unique.

The machines were manufactured

by Fisker and Nielson Ltd from Copenhagen, better known as makers of Thermos flasks and sewing machines. They started production in 1920 with an aircooled, four cylinder, shaft drive machine with an unusual frame made from pressed steel. With very little updating they continued to make the same machine until their closure in 1957. It is most unusual for a maker to produce just one model of machine, albeit with minor changes over the years, and for just one model to have a production run of 37 years. There can be very few manufacturers who have done this and so I set my limited brain cells to work to find others. The only other I have thought of to date is that of Wilkinson who also made much the same machine from 1909 to 1916. With this one much fewer machines were produced and over a much shorter production run. I am pleased to report that the grey cells do still function, but you may do better and think of other marques.

Rod Hann.

Yeovil AutoTuning

S. PETHERTON

IF YOU ARE out and about why not visit the pretty village of South Petherton ... here you will find a small but interesting range of independent shops and services.

H.R. Hodge

H.R. Hodge are dedicated to the wonderful world of entertainment.

A local, independent authorised Panasonic dealer they offer a full range of services including sales, installation, service, hire purchase, rental, maintenance

REPAIR SERVICE

★ All makes of TV repaired ★ On the premises workshop

★ Loan TV whilst being repaired

★ Estimates ★ Bench or field service

FULL RANGE OF PANASONIC TVS IN STOCK FOR SALE ... DO CALL IN

H.R. Hodge

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 1pm

38 St. James Street South Petherton TA13 5BW  01460 240645

and aerial installation.

Their polite and patient team offer expert advice and will guide you through the purchase of your new equipment - and support continues long after it is installed.

For more information - visit their website www.hrhodge.co.uk or call in to their shop in person.

Regal Solutions

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

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

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

From Quote to Finish you will

REGAL SOLUTIONS SW LTD South Petherton BATHROOMS & SHOWERS Disabled Walk-In Showers Ramps for the Disabled PVC Windows ◆ General Carpentry

ESTABLISHED OVER 30 YEARS Repairs and Servicing Specialists MOT Testing – Classes IV and VII Engine Tuning ● Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes Competitive Rates ● Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW and Audi Group) EXTENSIVE NEW PREMISES NOW AT ...

9 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

✽ Expertly Made ✽ Expertly Fitted ✽ Fairly Priced ✽ Elegant Design ✽ All Work Guaranteed

MEMBER

16 THE VISITOR November 2014

Registered Wet Room Installer

Tel: 01460 241753 Mobile: 07843 339338 01460 929151 07702 888895

S. PETHERTON

every step of the way, from the initial planning and design, to the manufacture at their new workshop in South Petherton, through to the final installation in your home. They can help with all aspects of your kitchen, including worktops, appliances, sinks, taps, flooring ...

Opening soon in early 2015 they will have a dedicated kitchen showroom, where you are welcome to visit, enjoy a cup of coffee and get inspired!

One World

Regal Solutions can make life a lot easier for you by installing a walk-in shower or wet-room.

find a fast and friendly service that others can't match. They also offer other services designed to make your life easier, these include but are not limited to: Building Alterations; Widening of Doors; Wheelchair Ramps; Handrails. Please contact them for a free quote.

Eternal Kitchens

At Eternal Kitchens they value the importance of the kitchen, the heart of the home – a meeting space where family and friends gather to cook, eat, drink and socialise.

They are passionate about kitchens ... they love to talk about kitchens ... they get a kick out of providing you with the kitchen of your dreams. They are there

One World - such an interesting shop, with 6 showrooms over 2 floors stocked with beautiful and unique gifts from around the world - many fair trade.

New in - a delightful selection of rugs and throws, to brighten up your home. The Indian cotton bedspreads too are proving very popular.

If you are looking for Christmas gift ideas then there are plenty at One World - warm winter scarves made from lambs or alpaca wool, extra soft bamboo socks, stunning silver jewellery, glass vases, fair trade baskets and more!

The children’s toy department has a wonderful choice of children’s traditional and soft toys, including gifts for babies.

There is always a good choice of stationery, cards for all occasions and diaries. Call in today and see for yourself.

17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166

WE ARE MOVING ...

A great British Brand based in Dorset

... to bigger premises

Visit our new workshop ... showroom coming soon

The Old Yard Logge Farm, West Street South Petherton TA13 5DJ

KITCHENS & FURNITURE HANDCRAFTED IN SOMERSET

 01935 825975 email: info@eternalkitchens.co.uk www.eternalkitchens.co.uk

ESTABLISHED OVER 20 YEARS

5 Year No Quibble Guarantee

Great People – Great TVs Smart or Easy

H.R. HODGE On display at ...

South Petherton • TA13 5BL OPEN: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm Saturday Tel: 01460 240645

shop@hrhodge.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 17

MARTOCK – business focus

PetWood

PET FOOD SUPPLIES

For Dogs, Cats, Small Animals, Fish Aviary, Wild Birds & Poultry, Exotic Pets Toys, Hutches & Accessories Competitive Prices - Delivery Available Free Parking Outside Incorporating

LITTLE WINGS Licensed Pet Shop

Bird and Small Animal Sales

 01935 825868

www.petwood-martock.co.uk Unit 5, North Street Great Western Road, Martock

Petwood & Little Wings

Petwood on the Great Western Trading Estate has all you need for your family pet – with a comprehensive range of feeds from leading makes such as Burns, Royal Canin and Eukanuba. Pet accessories, leads, beds, chews and toys can all be found. With the winter approaching now is a good time to stock up on wild bird seeds and peanuts. Little Wings - Licensed Pet Shop can be found on the first floor at Petwood proprietor Louise has been breeding birds for over

15 years. Lovebirds, budgies, canaries, Chinese Painted quail and finches are amongst the birds for sale. A range of small animal such as rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, rats and mice are also on sale. Expert advice is on hand.

Petwood and Little Wings offer a complete service - from pet sales through to pet food and accessories. Open Sundays. Free parking outside the door.

Ash House Hotel, The Orangery Brasserie 41 Main Street, Ash, Martock, TA12 6PB Tel: 01935 822036

Ash House Hotel

At Ash House their philosophy is to use as much home grown and locally produced ingredients as possible. They grow a variety of vegetables and have raspberry, blackcurrant, redcurrant and gooseberry bushes and rhubarb crowns in the garden, which are harvested daily when in season.

Fish is sourced from the south coast and they use small

Experience fine dining in The Orangery Brasserie at Ash House Hotel in Martock

Are you sitting comfortably?

We have an excellent choice of ...

Rise & Recline Chairs from £450 Static Fireside Chairs from £399 Choice of fabrics & styles Mobility Scooters

SALES  SERVICE  REPAIRS

From Walking Sticks to Stairlifts ... we can help with your mobility Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.00pm Saturday 9.30am – 12.30pm Other times by appointment

Units 1 & 2 Great Western Road, Martock

0800 731 7078

18 THE VISITOR November 2014

SALES • SERVICE • REPAIRS

This comfortable fireside chair is from the Cosi Chair range.

The Orwell has a teak finish and is pictured here in Leaf Evergreen design, available from A2B Mobility in Martock.

MARTOCK – business focus

independent boats to get the freshest fish possible. Their butcher uses local suppliers where they can and duck is from just over the border in Devon.

Award-winning, and very local sausages, plus bacon and pork all from Somerset.

The garden fruit is used to create chef’s wonderful homemade ice creams and sorbets. The cheeses are chosen by our chef who selects from the local artisan cheese makers, to ensure you have an interesting choice.

All dishes are prepared to order so please allow time for this. If you have any special requests, please ask and they will try and accommodate you.

The Nags Head

Visit the Nags Head where you will find tasty homemade specials and delicious puddings.

Pop in for lunch and enjoy a ‘Special’ from just £5.00 available Monday to Friday. A

traditional Sunday Roast is great value from £7.25, with a choice of 4 meats.

It’s Hallowe’en Party Weekend - 31st October and the 1st November - fancy dress is welcome.

Turkey dinners will be served throughout December at £8.95.

There’s a choice of PreChristmas Party Menus which are available for lunch or dinner, call in or phone for details.

The Nags Head

East Street • Martock • Tel: 01935 823432 “MARTOCK’S HIDDEN GEM”

Find us just down the road from the Post Office — opposite Bearly House Delicious Home Cooked Food - Lunchtimes and Evenings

✴ TRADITIONAL SUNDAY ROAST LUNCH from £7.25 ✴ Choice of Four Meats

O

Hurst Manor in Martock offers its residents 24-hour nursing care in a comfortable environment.

✴ OPEN ALL DAY Friday, Saturday & Sunday ✴ Open Monday – Thursday 12noon – 2.30pm and from 6pm

Christmas Dinners available throughout December Bookings Advised • Small Buffets • Guest Ales

O

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

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

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

www.hurstmanor.co.uk Hurst, MARTOCK, TA12 6JU 01935 823467 info@hurstmanor.co.uk

● Frequent trips out in our own minibus

● Beautiful landscaped gardens with breathtaking views over the Somerset countryside

THE VISITOR November 2014 19

MARTOCK

Richard P. Kemp, B.A. Solicitor

The firm of Richard P. Kemp, B.A., Solicitor has been established in the pleasant country town of Martock since 1986. It is the successor to a continuous line of legal practitioners in the town for more than 160 years and it has been at its present premises for upwards of fifty years. It strives to deliver a high quality, efficient

and friendly legal service to everyone at a reasonable price.

All types of legal work, are undertaken - no problem is too small or too large. The loyal and helpful staff are always pleased to help clients, both old and new.

The White Hart Hotel

The delicious French/English cuisine offered at the White Hart reflects the chefs’ care and imagination in cooking fresh local

The showroom of Drapes Direct where you will find a fabulous selection of curtain fabrics, plus poles and tracks.

WHITE HART HOTEL Renowned for High Quality Fresh Food and Inventive Cuisine Peter and Isabelle Halkyard welcome you to the FREEHOUSE

East Street, Martock • 01935 822005

WHAT A CRACKER ... for every party of 12 or more, one Christmas Cracker will hold a £10 Meal Voucher a good way to start the party!

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2 courses £17.95 • 3 courses £21.95 Supplement £1.20 for coffee & mince pie

Celeriac and apple soup with sage croutons Duck liver and chicken terrine wrapped in Parma ham with red onion marmalade and melba toasts Smoked salmon and crab cocktail, orange and mango dressing with crostini on a bed of dressed leaves Button mushroom, Stilton and Martock apples salad with a walnut & balsamic dressing

************ Christmas turkey, piggy-back sausages, chestnut stuffing, cranberry sauce Game casserole in a redcurrant and thyme sauce, with herb dumplings Tenderloin of pork served on wholegrain mustard mash, with a sage and cider jus Cod supreme served on crushed potatoes with a saffron and prawn butter sauce Mediterranean vegetable puff pastry basket topped with mozzarella with a basil & tomato coulis All served with fresh seasonal vegetables and potatoes ************ Christmas pudding with brandy custard Iced chocolate and mocha mousse, with a chocolate and hazelnut sauce Cinnamon, pear and toasted almond frangipane with lemon and honey cream Fine Stilton and Cheddar with Martock apple and pear chutney and biscuits

************ As always, our food is freshly prepared; if you have any allergies, please do not hesitate to contact us. To book small or large parties call us on 01935 822005 MERRY

CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

To secure your booking, we request a £5.00 deposit per person

CHRISTMAS PARTY LUNCH MENU £13.50 Beaujolais Nouveau Night: Thursday 20th November Bistro Lunches £6.95 V A La Carte & Specials Menus

www.whiteharthotelmartock.co.uk Like us on Facebook: Martock White Hart

20 THE VISITOR November 2014

In addition to beautiful fresh flowers The Flower Loft have a superb choice of ‘silk flowers’.

CELEBR ATING 10 YEARS

The Flower Loft Fresh and ‘Silk’ Flowers Bespoke Wedding Flowers Funeral Tributes

Same Day Delivery Service

Christmas Arrangements

103 North Street, Martock, T A12 6EJ •  01935 823168 e: theflowerloft@hotmail.com • w: theflowerloft-martock.co.uk

RICHARD P. KEMP Solicitor

B.A.

Quality assured legal advice and services for private and corporate clients.

Open Saturday Mornings

Tel: 01935 822572

31 North Street, Martock, Somerset TA12 6DH

MARTOCK – business focus

ingredients. From light snacks, to the £6.95 Bistro specials and the restaurant menu, the food is superb and the atmosphere always welcoming.

Their popular Beaujolais Nouveau night is Thursday 20th November ... so French and fun, and raising money for charity.

The White Hart is in The Good Beer Guide and enjoys promoting local real ales. So, definitely recommended for food lovers and those who like relaxing in a friendly village pub. Christmas and New Year’s Eve menu available.

Martock Gallery

Christopher Shaw, is a local artist, whose main subjects are wildlife and aviation. He recently completed a pencil drawing of a Sea King HC4 from RNAS Yeovilton and posted updates of this picture on the 845 Squadron Facebook Group. This generated a lot of interest from the crews that have served on the Sea King in the past and are currently serving on it now, so much so that he decided to produce it as a limited edition print in conjunction with Martock Gallery.

The prints are available from the

gallery mounted and wrapped for £45.00 or framed for £90.00. They are all signed by Christopher and Rich Sutton, MBE Cdr RN (Rtd) who was senior pilot from 845 Sqn 2008-2010. For more details, please contact Martock Gallery on 01935 823254. Christopher can be contacted on 07791 432800.

Bower Hinton Farm Shop

Bower Hinton Farm has been owned and run by the Palmer family for over 160 years. The Farm Shop was opened by Duncan and Sally Palmer in April 2006.

Duncan specialises in growing outdoor vegetables and salads plus indoor strawberries. Produce is harvested daily to maintain freshness and as he harvests it all himself, quality is maintained.

The shop also offers a full range of local meats, dairy products, preserves, Lyme Bays wines, Perrys and Ham Hill cider, Yeovil ales, Lovingtons ice cream, frozen pastries, fruit and ready meals, Somerset milk, Martock bread and much more. A recent addition is a high quality range of smoked fish and meats from the Chesil Smokery in Bridport.

A small coffee shop in the premises serves coffee roasted by Reads Coffee of Sherborne and locally baked “Farmer Wife” cakes. Orders are now being taken for Christmas/veg boxes – just fill out your requirements drop it into the shop and it will be put up and ready for collection on your chosen date.

A corner of Yandle’s Hobbies & Craft department where you will find a wonderful selection of silks, wool, card making, beads and more.

HOBBIES & CRAFTS DEMONSTRATION DAY WITH SPECIAL OFFERS Saturday 22nd November

‘Sea King HC4’

Limited Edition Print by

Christopher Shaw

£90 Framed

Prints ★ Paintings ★ Bronzes ★ Mirrors ★ Framing Passport Photographs ★ Prints to Canvas

Martock Gallery Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.30

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

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock DELICIOUS HOME GROWN VEGETABLES

• A full range of red meat, poultry, bacon, sausages etc. • Fruit & veg.

• Dairy produce • Preserves and pickles • Bread and biscuits • Draught and bottled cider and wine • A fantastic range of frozen fruit & pastries ORDERS • Ice cream, homemade cakes & coffee shop TAKEN FOR CHRISTMAS OPEN: Monday - Saturday TURKEYS 10.00am - 5.00pm Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Tel: 01935 827743

Also

Record Power Demonstration Days

on Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd November with SPECIAL DEALS on Woodworking Machinery and 20% OFF Timber from the Woodworking Centre

NEW CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION ... in the 303 Gallery

Yandle & Sons Ltd

FREE PARKING

Hurst Works, Martock Somerset, TA12 6JU

COFFEE SHOP

Tel: 01935 822207 • Email: online-info@yandles.co.uk www.yandles.co.uk THE VISITOR November 2014 21

Antiques, Vintage & Collecting

Antiques Bazaar

Antiques Bazaar, Crewkerne is a large retail warehouse that is home to over 90 traders offering unusual and interesting products – from antique silver jewellery, textiles, ceramics, mirrors and prints to stylish sofas and chairs, painted dressers and large rustic tables.

Browse for gifts, be inspired with ideas for your home, and pick up a bargain!

Soak up the atmosphere,

Beaminster Antiques, Vintage & Collectables Fair Saturday 8th November Public Hall BEAMINSTER Dorset

9.30am – 4.00pm

✱ NEXT FAIR ✱ Saturday 13th December

Bookings & Enquiries Meadow Fairs 01297 24446

Big Prices for Small Treasures at Lawrences

enjoy the moody music, unwind from the delights in the café and join in the banter.

Antiques Bazaar, open 7 days a week and ready to delight.

With nearly 900 lots on offer, Lawrences recent auction of silver and vertu was guaranteed to offer something of interest to every collector and the strong prices throughout a long day of bidding ensured that very little was left unsold.

A vast assortment of cutlery and flatware constituted the first quarter of the auction and the undoubted highlight was a 13cm long (5inch) butter knife made by The Guild of Handicrafts in 1902.

Curious Collectables

If you are looking for that toy from childhood or something different take a look at Curious Collectables, Somerton. Formerly Somerton Hobbies owner Paul decided on a slight direction shift and name change when he stopped selling Warhammer. Paul’s interest in vintage toys especially 1960’s Hornby inspired him to introduce antiques and vintage toys whilst keeping the ever popular plastic model kits, trains and Scalextric. Offering cabinet rental has meant specialists in other areas are in store, for example Shelley, Sylvac, designer jewellery, all alongside a vast array of model kits by Airfix, etc., trains from clockwork up to the latest digital sound locos.

For a wonderful selection of statues for the garden or the conservatory, visit Tinhouse Home & Garden, Somerton.

With a finely worked ‘cage’ handle, this little knife appealed sufficiently to make £4,420.

Small continued to be popular with a fine Georgian portrait miniature of The Hon. Mrs Digby (former maid to Queen Charlotte)

by Richard Cosway made £2,390

Tinhouse Home & Garden Antiques Furniture • Vintage • Retro • Gardenalia • Pots Birdbaths • Sundials • Statues • Sculptures ITEMS BOUGHT & SOLD – CASH PAID – CAN COLLECT Open 10.30am ‘til 4.30pm, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday Other times by appointment

Tel: 01458 241298 • Mobile: 07971 244441 Sutton Road, South Hill, SOMERTON, TA11 7JG Approx. 1 1⁄3 miles from Somerton Town Centre heading South on B3165

A GREAT CENTRE FOR ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES OVER 80 DEALERS AT ONE GREAT DESTINATION

Painted & pine furniture Sofas and occasional pieces Textiles, vintage clothing, jewellery china and porcelain

22 THE VISITOR November 2014

We want ...

your vintage and antique toys, model railways and unusual items, top prices paid

Curious Collectables

We buy and sell the curious, the collectable, vintage and antique toys, model railways and plastic model kits Open Monday 4 Half Moon Car Park, West Street Somerton, TA11 6QQ Tel: 01458 273755

to Saturday 10am ‒ 4pm

Antiques and a miniature vesta case depicting the celebrated Victorian golfer Tom Morris, in coloured enamels, made £2,390. The day’s total was just under £300,000.

Harriet Sandys

This early 19th century field surgeons medical box, complete with mahogany and brass case, was once owned by general surgeon Merry Robert, from 1831 - 37. Available from Quillon House Antiques, Bruton.

Quillon House Antiques

16 HIGH STREET , BRUTON  01749 812269

 17 th / 18 th C. Oak and Country Furniture  Arms & Armoury  Equestrian Paintings  Valuations Undertaken  Antiques Purchased

On sale this December in the barn at the Manor House, West Compton will be a display of colourful and exotic textiles and unusual Christmas gifts. Kneelength wool coats, jackets and kaftans from India, smart sleeveless tweed gilets from Kashmir for men, and a new range of colourful Nepalese slippers for children and adults are just some of the items for sale.

There are oriental rugs, runners and tribal kilims from Afghanistan and Iran, carved wood chests and tables from the mountain villages of Swat in northern Pakistan and a fabulous assortment of hand woven silk and wool scarves. On sale too are table lamps, block printed tablecloths, bed spreads, quilts, cushions and throws from India as well as silver jewellery from Morocco, Tibet and semi precious stone earrings made by craftsmen living in the desert villages of Rajasthan. Prices in the barn start from £2.

The barn is open on the weekends of 6th/7th, 13th/14th and 20th/21st December, 2pm5pm. If you would like to visit at any other time, the barn is open by appointment. Credit and debit cards are accepted. For further details and directions see www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk.

Signposted from A361. The Barn

at the Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB. Tel 01749 890582.

A beloved pet captured in a portrait - for a unique Christmas gift.

Contact Carole-Anne Adlington.

ANIMAL PORTRAITS

A pastel drawing of your pet - a timeless gift Contact C. A. Adlington

01749 813524 pasteldogportraits.co.uk

Dutch 18th Century Silver Tobacco Box with detailed engraving

Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm

Hazy-Maes Auctions Auctions and House Clearance Services

AUCTIONS HELD FORTNIGHTLY ON A SATURDAY Viewing all day on Friday prior, 9.30am – 6.30pm

FORTHCOMING AUCTIONS

Saturday 8th and Saturday 22nd November from 12noon

1 Bancombe Court, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, TA11 6SB Tel: 01458 274615 • Mobile: 07709 038620 Visit our website: www.hazymaesauctions.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 23

Don’t forget ‘Mans Best Friend’ this Christmas

James Wellbeloved makes naturally healthy complete dog

food and treats. Produced in Somerset, the recipes are made with natural ingredients and contain no added artificial

How’s your memory? Pictured is a view of Middle Street in the early 1970s following pedestrianisation, taken from the ‘Yeovil in Living Memory’ Calendar, produced by South Somerset District Council.

See their advert for availability.

colours, flavours or preservatives.

The complete formulas contain all the nutrients your dog needs throughout his life, which means you don’t need to supplement the diet with anything else. Each recipe uses only a single source of meat protein and excludes many of the ingredients known to cause tummy upsets, which makes them ideal for dogs with food intolerances and coat issues.

The range includes products tailored to the specific nutritional

Isabelle and her assistant Adrian of Crossroads Pet Supplies - here you will find a host of toys to keep your pet amused - plus of course a full range of pet feeds and accessories.

needs of puppies, juniors, adults and seniors, as well as small breeds, large breeds and overweight dogs. There is also a No Cereals range for dogs with extra sensitivities. James Wellbeloved is available from all good pet shops. For more information and a list of stockists please visit www.wellbeloved.com or call 0845 603 9095.

Elegance Beauty Therapy Clinic

Would you like a Magical Christmas? Just come along to Elegance Beauty Therapy Clinic where we can make your dreams come true! After having a lovely treatment you can browse our extensive gift range from stocking fillers to luxury packs. Snow White, Cinderella and Prince Charming all from our luxury Aloe Vera range from £37.54 to £47.72.

If you can't find what you're looking for we can make it for you.

We also have some gorgeous beauty cases in black or shocking pink - a must see £39.95. Mid range we have all sorts including Shots in a Box Bubble Bath £7.99 and something a little different a Cracker Polish Set with a different polish in each vibrant pink cracker!

Create a stunning Bang for only

Dog tired of high prices?

CROSSROADS PET SUPPLIES VISIT

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 .



Élégance

BEAUTY THERAPY CLINIC Sandie Barrett M.B.A.B.Th.C. C.I.D.E.S.C.O.

Extensive Gift Range

From Luxury Packs to Stocking Fillers ...

Wish List Service Available

To book please telephone 01963 34115 or call in at

8b Church Street • Wincanton

Austin delivery vans used by the Western Gazette to distribute newspapers that were received and stored in the WH Smith & Son building after bulk delivery to Yeovil Town Station around the mid-1950s.

Available from the Community Heritage Access Centre, Lufton, Yeovil, BA22 8RP, or Yeovil Tourist Information Centre, Petters House, Petters Way, Yeovil, or Cartgate Tourist Information Centre on the A303.

Cost is £6 per calendar or two for £10, please add £1.50 for packaging & postage.

24 THE VISITOR November 2014

£14.99! Pluckers, Tissues, Mirrors, Pucker Duck Glamour and Festive Lip Gloss, Scented Nail Files from our stocking fillers 99p to £4.99.

If you've got a loved one that struggles with your gift - we offer a 'Wish List' Service and we'll even wrap it for them or if you'd like to look at the gifts in the luxury of your own home with a few friends and a mince pie give me a call!

Reed & Russell

Flowers are always a well received present at Christmas time and can be sent anywhere in the world by Reed & Russell as agents for Interflora.

Reed & Russell have a good choice of cut flowers and pot plants. and with Christmas looming now is a good time to place your order for Christmas arrangements, and wreaths.

Weddings, Floral Tributes, Corporate Events - Reed & Russell are happy to discuss your floral requirements.

Scenes

Scenes of Gillingham have an extensive range of artists

materials to suit the amateur and the professional artist. There are plenty of gift ideas for Christmas too including painting sets, books and prints.

Scenes offer an expert on-thepremises framing service with an extensive range of mouldings and mounts to choose from. Craft items are always in stock, including balsa wood. Why not make your own Christmas cards this year - Scenes stock all your card making requirements.

Mid-West Office Supplies

Why not give a gift that is attractive and useful this Christmas? There is a wonderful range of pens and pen sets

AN IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT ...

Artist Materials • Tuition Books • Accessories Extensive Range of Prints, framed & unframed, wide choice of topics  On-the-premises Framing Service 

High Street, Gillingham Tel / Fax 01747 824050

Local & Nationwide Deliveries

01963 32367

Office Equipment & Furniture Printer Inks and Toners Competitive Prices

FREE Local Delivery

2015 DIARIES AND CALENDARS NOW IN STOCK

Stockists of Sheaffer, Parker, Lamy, Cross and Waterman Pens Call at our shop ...

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

www.midwest-office.co.uk

Christmas time for her ...

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

15%

Bespoke • Corporate • Events Parties • Weddings • Sympathy

Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap

discount off all PULSAR watches during November

11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA

Plenty of gift ideas at Hanson’s Fabrics & Crafts in Sturminster Newton, including magnifying lamps, sewing kits for children, needlework boxes and much more.

at

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil The Casket 103 Middle Street Yeovil  01935 474065

Free Customer Parking at Rear

The Visitor can be read online … www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 25

available at Mid-West from leading makes such as Lamy.

Diaries and calendars are always a useful gift too. For those who have their office at home there is a wide range of stocking fillers such as staplers, coloured paper clips and quality stationery should you require something larger, say a new office desk or chair, then browse through their extensive colour catalogue.

Cards for Good Causes

Cards for Good Causes, the UK’s largest multi-charity Christmas card organisation, has opened its pop-up shop within St. John’s Church, Yeovil. Staffed by volunteers, it sells Christmas Cards for more than 25 national and local charities including St. Margaret’s Hospice and Clic Sargent. The Christmas Cards are an important source of

funding for charities and help to raise awareness of their work.

Cards and Christmas essentials - tags wrapping paper, stocking fillers - all available.

In the past five years, charities received more than £20 million from Cards for Good Causes representing at least 70p in every pound out of which charities had to pay for the production and distribution of their Cards and any VAT. The Yeovil pop-up shop is part of the national network, you will find them just inside the door of St. John’s Church, in the centre of town, for details see advert.

Pictured right: this magical glass snow flake ball is just one of many unusual gifts available at Needful Things of Castle Cary do call in and see their wonderful Christmas decorations.

Needful Things For a Magical Christmas

Unusual Gifts  Stunning Decorations

7 High Street, Castle Cary, BA7 7AN Tel: 01963 351352

GO-KARTS for ALL AGES!

Karts to suit 3+ years to adults 2 Year Guarantee ... prices from just £99

5 Year Guarantee

Sturdy metal construction Adjustable handlebars and seats Fun for all the family

BenJohnson

 Ideal Christmas Gift  SEE OUR RANGE

Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park, SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 • www.benjohnsonmowers.com John Deere BFR-AF

SALES – SERVICE – REPAIRS

26 THE VISITOR November 2014

“Buzzy”

This go-kart from the Berg range is available from Ben Johnson Garden Machinery on the Wincombe Business Park in Shaftesbury. Call in to his showroom where you will find gokarts for all ages. Fun for all members of the family.

Father Christmas at the Toy Barn

Come and see Father Christmas at the Toy Barn this winter. He will be here between Friday 12th and Sunday 14th December, details are on line at www.toybarn.co.uk. We recommend booking in advance!

We have a newly designed shop with great new lines of toys in store. Find those great well made toys for Christmas this year alongside the traditional

favourites. We also have the best outdoor toy shop in the South West; come and try out a selection of climbing frames and trampolines. We have experience from school play grounds to small back gardens ask our friendly staff for help.

Visit us on line at www.toybarn.co.uk or call us on 01935 815040 to see the best in toys and outdoor play. Find us on the A30 outside Sherborne at Blackmarsh Farm DT9 4JX.

A portrait of a family member makes an ideal Christmas gift. Call Graham Cox LMPA of Keinton Mandeville for all your photography requirements.

The ideal Christmas Gift Portraits, Families, New Arrivals, Family Pets etc.

 Attractive studio setting (no studio fee)  Sittings anytime to suit - day / evening  Gift tokens for a studio sitting

Graham Cox

Now taking bookings for 2015 weddings

LMPA

Photographer

AVAILABLE 7 DAYS / EVENINGS A WEEK BY APPOINTMENT

The Studio, High Street Keinton Mandeville Somerset, TA11 6ED (Opposite The Quarry Inn)

 01458 223769 • 24 Hours

Stuck for ideas? For a gift to treasure, take a look in the window of Ward & Sibley, the Jewellers of Yeovil, where you are sure to find inspiration!

B E T T E R S TA R T S N O W

Christmas time for him ... at

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil The Casket 103 Middle Street Yeovil  01935 474065

Free Customer Parking at Rear THE VISITOR November 2014 27

A glimpse of Glastonbury Edward Howells Associates Limited - Chartered Certified Accountants

Edward Howells Associates are based in Glastonbury but deal with clients in the surrounding areas of Street, Wells and further afield.

They deal with a wide range of business types, from small tax repayment claims to the preparation and audit of accounts for groups of companies. Their core business is dealing with family businesses, whether they operate as a sole trader, partnership or limited company.

They deal with basic compliance work of account preparations, tax, VAT returns and payroll, plus general business and tax planning matters. Do give them a call if you would like an informal, no obligation chat.

XY Barbers

XY Barbers has recently celebrated 6 years on Glastonbury High Street offering walk in and wait no appointment barbering for men and boys. Movember is again upon us and XY Barbers will be offering free shape ups for those men looking for inspiration while growing their moustaches, so get involved, grow a mo and do your bit for men’s health! Also in Movember, as an introductory offer there is a 10% discount with our new barber Keiran.

You can also find XY Barbers in Castle Cary. Both shops have 3 barbers cutting on Saturdays and 2 throughout the week to help avoid those long queues. All ages are welcome at XY with contemporary and traditional barbering available at affordable prices.

Shoppers take a rest and enjoy the sunshine whilst being serenaded by a street musician in Glastonbury.

Glastonbury Post Office

Glastonbury Post Office is run by Gerald Cross together with one of his two sons and five other members of staff. Having run this busy Post Office for over thirteen years Gerald and his staff are well known to their customers and offer a friendly and helpful service.

If you are planning a winter break don’t forget you can get your travel insurance, travellers cheques and currency from the Post Office.

Christmas is looming so remember to send your overseas parcels and cards off in plenty of time.

GLASTONBURY POST OFFICE AND CLASS CARDS 35 High Street Glastonbury BA6 9HG

Telephone 01458 831536

MONEYGRAMS • BUDGET CARDS

STATIONERY • ACCOUNTS • STAMPS

TELEPHONE • GAS • ELECTRICITY • WATER • GIRO TRANSACTIONS

GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • PENSION PAYMENTS

Edward Howells Associates Limited

CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Registered Auditors * Preparation of Accounts Personal & Corporate Taxation * VAT & Payroll Business & Limited Company Set-Ups Business Planning & Advice Registered Office: 20a High Street, Glastonbury Somerset BA6 9DU Tel: 01458 831700 * Fax: 01458 831189 Email: accounts@edwardhowells.co.uk

28 THE VISITOR November 2014

Attractive shop façades on the High Street make shopping in Glastonbury a colourful experience.

Mundys of Street

Mundys of Street is a Somerset family business that started in 1888, built on a tradition from that date 126 years ago that the customer deserves a quality product, with a good service at a sensible value – ‘don’t sell an item you would not purchase yourself.’

They cover all aspect of bespoke floristry, day-to-day, birthdays, anniversaries, superb traditional weddings or the modern complete package – Brides, Bridesmaids, Church, Venue decorating and more.

At Mundys their sympathy floristry is possibly the best in the area. Again they listen to your exact requirements – and then deliver, from simple basic items through to greater speciality items.

They are Interflora agents so flowers can be ordered for delivery, by phone. Customers are now able to buy online from their comprehensive website or can visit in person at the shop

STREET

where they will receive a friendly and professional service.

Floorcraft

If you are looking for a new carpet or new flooring look no further than Floorcraft of Street. A family run business with 28 years experience you can be sure of personal and friendly service plus an excellent choice - and all at sensible prices.

The popular Karndean flooring is available at Floorcraft. This versatile flooring is hard wearing and is available in a wide range of designs to suit any room in the house. There is always a selection of rugs in stock to choose from.

Call in today - find them in the Bayliss Centre with free parking outside the door.

Pictured right: beautiful semiprecious stones and crystals in autumnal colours make up this attractive bracelet - £55. Available from Ayerst & Graces of Street.

Exciting New Ranges “Where jewellery meets design”

Featuring British led jewellery with the emphasis on innovative design ♦ Bespoke design service ♦ Repairs on the premises

54 High Street, Street, Somerset, BA16 0EQ Tel: 01458 898242 • Web: www.ayerstandgraces.com

Bedroom or Bathroom ...

Lounge or Conservatory we have the flooring you require

Excellent Choice • Prompt Service Carpets • Vinyls • Laminates • Natural Flooring Good choice of Rugs

★ Karndean and Polyflor stockist ★ PLANNING – MEASURING – FITTING

Always a favourite - the Bronnley range of traditional soaps and toiletries - available from Street Pharmacy, Street.

A family run business established over 20 years. Proprietors: Janet & Ken Burgess

4 Bayliss Centre, High Street, STREET Telephone: 01458 447950

Mundy’s of Street Free Parking outside the door

Designer Florists

Freephone Orderline 0800 097 8767 Buy online

www.mundysflorist.co.uk

Or visit us in person ...

116 High Street, STREET, BA16 0EW

Tel: 01458 442845 Email: sales@mundysflorist.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 29

Street Cellular

Street Cellular are one of few independent mobile phone specialists. Established for over 24 years you can be sure that they have expert knowledge and experience.

In addition to selling a wide range of mobile phones, both new and used, they also repair them together with iPhones and iPads - normally with a same day turn around - whatever the problem, from unlocking to liquid damage.

There is an excellent choice of tablets and they are now stocking smart watches.

For those trying to cut down or quit smoking e-cigarettes and accessories are now also available from Street Cellular.

Achieve your potential with Strode College

It’s time for year 11 pupils to think about what and where to study after GCSEs; getting good advice is essential. It’s important to choose the right A Level subjects or vocational course to help you achieve your future

STREET

ambitions. It’s also important to choose the college or school where you will enjoy the next stage of your education and achieve your potential.

For many young people this means leaving school and moving on to a specialist sixth form college, like Strode College in Street.

Strode College specialises in teaching 16-18 year olds.

Students enjoy learning in an environment with people of the same age where the teaching, support, facilities and social activities are tailored to their needs.

Strode College offers the widest choice of A Levels in Somerset (39 subjects), as well as advanced vocational qualifications and apprenticeships for those who want to learn while working.

And, Strode students respond well to the outstanding teaching and support they receive, with official reports showing that they consistently gain excellent results and achieve better advanced level grades than predicted following

their GCSE results (League Tables 2014 and ALPS 2014).

Strode College is inviting year 11 pupils to visit the college on Wednesday 19 November, from 6pm to 8.30pm. This is a great opportunity to speak to teachers and students, look around the

college and find out what makes a fantastic sixth form experience.

Find out more at: www.strodecollege.ac.uk

Jaywalk Guitars

Jaywalk Guitars is Somerset's premier guitar shop. With well

BRIGHT’S

Need your timepiece mending - contact Bright’s of Street.

     

Watch & Jewellery Workshop

Gold, Silver, Coins & Collectables Bought and Sold Jewellery Repairs  Jewellery Alterations Jewellery Cleaning and Polishing Clock Repairs  Watch Batteries £4 Watch Straps from £3.95 (Leather) Watch Repairs  Watch Glass Replacement

Farm Road, Street, Somerset, BA16 0BJ  07510 926304

MOBILE PHONE SPECIALISTS

 Unlocking Service

 Unlocked Handsets

 iPad Sales

 3G Tablets

 Data Recovery

 E-Cigarettes and E-Liquids 

 Phone, iPad and PC Repairs  Full Range of Accessories

Pay monthly, pay as you go & Sim only

5 The Bayliss Centre, Street • 01458 841741 30 THE VISITOR November 2014

website: www.streetcellular.com email: sales@streetcellular.com

STREET

over 300 guitars of all types in stock, they offer quality products to suit beginners all the way up to professionals. A fantastic range including Fender, Martin, Gretsch, Tanglewood, Blackstar, Sigma and many more top brands attracts people from across the county and beyond.

The shop on the High Street in Street also stocks amplifiers, pickups, accessories, a good selection of ukuleles and also includes a demo room to try out instruments. All this backed up by expert knowledge and advice from gigging musicians makes Jaywalk Guitars the goto destination for all your guitar needs.

Pictured right: for a stunning range of underwear to fit all sizes, visit Oomph and Lift of Street.

Why not call in for a professional fitting?

and

LOOKING GOOD

Family Health with

Jenna Evans

Making The Most of Your Medicines - Part One

Beautiful Lingerie ...

STOCKIST OF

Panache: 28 – 46, D – K ‘Sculptresse’ Range: 36 – 46, D – K ... also Sports Bras Charnos: 30 – 38, A – H PROFESSIONAL FITTING SERVICE HOSIERY * SWIMWEAR Lepel: 30 – 38, A – G Celebrating our 3rd Birthday Tutti R uge Now In Royce Non-wired Bras * Girls First Bras Mastectomy Bras * Nursing Bras Miraclesuits: 10lbs lighter in 10 seconds

Lingerie

Vestry Court, Vestry Road, STREET

 01458 898952 • Turn by William Hill - opposite Living Homes

IN THIS SERIES we’ll be looking at how best to make your medicines - be they pharmaceutical, nutrients or herbals - work well for you. For example there are many foods, drinks and lifestyle choices that can interfere with the activity of common supplements and drugs.

We’ll be looking in brief at some of the most common as well as addressing another big issue that many drugs themselves can rob your body of vital nutrients.

This is one cause of all those ‘side effects’ we see in drug inserts and luckily a side effect we can help ease with correct nutritional supplementation. First though, let’s have a look at how we go about choosing our medicines.

Do I really need this drug / herb / vitamin? It may seem like a silly question, especially if you’ve just paid a visit to your GP and been given a prescription, but unfortunately we know that often drugs can be easily overprescribed. The medical establishment itself is often expressing concerns about this think about the over-use of antibiotics that has been gaining attention in recent years. They were often prescribed for viral infections that they wouldn’t be able to treat anyway! So yes, ‘do I really need this?’ has to be the first question. If you feel that you do, then that’s fine - but it is important to know what we are taking and why, so we can take back the power for our own health and wellbeing. If the answer is no - and I often speak

to people who have doubts about committing to a course of drugs if they feel they may be unnecessary - then discuss this with your GP or pharmacist. If you have a doctor who is knowledgeable in nutrition or herbalism for instance, they may recommend you pop into a health food store to pick up a certain nutrient or herb. If your GP or pharmacist is not knowledgeable in these matters, then you can always pop straight to your local health food store or talk to a local therapist. One of the top issues I speak to people about is cholesterol. They have just been told it’s high and more often than not the GP has recommended drug treatment. The patient would rather give it some time to see if they can manage it with diet and lifestyle. This is a perfect example of somebody having doubts about popping a pill straight away and wishing to understand why they may have a condition and what they change about their lifestyle and eating habits that could help. Obviously if you’re already taking a drug I would never suggest you stick it in the bin - some medicines are truly life saving - and if you wish to reduce any medications you are currently taking you must always do this with the monitoring of your doctor.

So just in case you think I’m levelling criticisms of unnecessary medicating purely at pharmaceuticals, I’m going to say now that I also speak to lots of people taking a dozen or more nutritional supplements and sometimes they’re not sure why either! Pill popping like this usually happens because a health conscious person (if that’s you, well done! - but please keep reading on) will come across a piece or information about a nutrient and think ‘ooh that sounds like good stuff, maybe I need some of that?’ Once this has happened a few times we turn into vitamin rattles. Now you can

THE VISITOR November 2014 31

FREE SPARE PAIR with any frame from our £75 range or above

LOOKING GOOD

Look one size smaller and feel amazing in a pair of ‘Not Your Daughters Jeans’ available from Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie, Shaftesbury.

argue of course, that the dosages and substances in OTC vitamins and herbs are much, much less likely to do you any harm than if you were knocking back pharmaceutical products indiscriminately. It is however possible you could be taking the upper end safe dose of a nutrient

or that you may be intolerant to an ingredient in the pills without knowing. Some herbs should never be used continuously and, if you’re

The Dress Circle Dress Agency

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

10am - 4pm Monday - Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday

For large quantities collections can be arranged

EYES RIGHT OPTICIANS St. Audries Station Road, Gillingham Tel: 01747 831010

3 Market Place Sturminster Newton

Tel: 01258 473992 LOW PRICES AND QUALITY SERVICE

*30% OFF spectacles applies when choosing any frame from our £75 range or above. Excludes “free spare pair / prescription sunglasses” offer.

Pick up a leaflet or ask our staff for full offer details.

32 THE VISITOR November 2014

4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY  01458 273485

In September, Shaftesbury’s Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie held a Fashion Week.

Pictured is Sue Gould, who won a voucher for £250 in the Joseph Ribkoff draw.

o T y t t o u p e a o e B T

taking certain cheap supplements, you won’t be getting the quality of other brands and are just wasting your money. I’m also a great believer in giving the body a break from pretty much everything there’s nothing I take every single day, year in year out. So if you find yourself with shelves full of nutritional and herbal medicines and you have no idea why you’re taking them all, pop in and have a chat with an advisor in your local health food store. This can also be helpful if you have any health conditions or are taking prescription medicines. We can look at possible interactions and help you streamline your medicines.

If I eat healthily, do I need to supplement? In my opinion, the answer to that is a resounding yes.

Unless you are somehow managing to live in a magical bubble, the quality of our air, soil and water is not conducive to getting all we need from our foods. So on a very selective and individual basis, I believe we can all benefit from nutritional supplements of some kind.

How do I take this medicine herb/vitamin? In short, always follow the instructions. There are good reasons that nutrients and drugs must be taken with or without food, at certain times of the day, or so many hours apart.

Always read up on the packaging and leaflets, follow the directions and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to talk to your GP/pharmacist/health food shop.

Join me next month when we’ll be taking a look at common foods, drinks and lifestyle factors that can interfere with our medicines.

Jenna Evans ©2014.

Jenna is a Holistic Health Coach and creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty UK’. Jenna is available instore as a Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Find Ceres on Facebook as ‘Ceres Natural Foods Ltd’. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to

your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.

Hair Here and Everywhere

After a few years of travelling, Julie is back here and wanting to hear from you. She’s been cutting hair for expats in Tanzania to raise money for charity. She rides a bright spotty bicycle to keep the carbon footprint low, or she turns up at your door in an equally bright lime beetle. This professional mobile hairstyling service invites enquiries and promises you quick calls-back. It’s a friendly, reliable service. Offering a competitive Family deal and other offers for autumn, please see the web-link in the advert and call for a pricelist to be posted.

Ideal for the autumn this leafdesign lightweight coat by Seasalt, available from Harts of Sturminster Newton.

THE VISITOR November 2014 33

Katie McAtamney of KM Beauty - see her special offer for November.

Friday & Saturday Nights 5pm – 9pm

34 THE VISITOR November 2014

Jeans Electrical

Jeans of Mere are well known for their excellent choice of white and brown goods. As part of the Euronics buying group they supply goods at competitive prices and offer a Cash & Carry service or same day delivery on all stock items from their Chapel showroom in Boar Street.

Stocked in their Salisbury Street shop is a wide range of small electrical goods such as hairdryers, blenders etc. They are also stockists of Roberts Radios.

They endeavour to offer useful sundry items such as vacuum bags, hand tools and cleaning products and stock Calor gas (this can also be delivered).

They have an on-the-premises workshop to undertake a wide range of electrical repairs and will, if possible, upgrade or refurbish your old table lamp.

Their customer service is excellent.

They have a large stock of traditional lamps and are happy to order lamps for customers if they are still obtainable. This includes candle, golf ball and old fashioned light bulbs in 10 to 100 watt. They have in stock 60w, 100w, 150w, and 200w lamps which have already ceased manufacture, plus energy saving lamps (dimmable).

Jeans still have limited stock of high powered vacuum cleaners on sale – call for details.

JEANS OF MERE Established 1916

Aerial, Freesat & Sky Installation

Repairs ★ New installations ★ Upgrades Realignment ★ DAB Installations ★ Retunes Magic Eyes ★ FM Radio Aerials ★ Sky & Sky HD Freeview ★ Freesat and Freesat HD Why not treat yourself to a new TV? We can supply, completely install, and upgrade your aerial if necessary, for a stress free service!

Electrical Installation

Domestic, Commercial & Industrial Solar PV ★ Rewires and Repairs Repairs of Washing Machines, Cookers, Freezers etc. Part P Registered Extra Sockets etc ★ TV Wall Installation Electrical Condition Reports ★ Storage Heater Repairs ... all works given Full Certification Domestic Appliances

High Wattage Vacuum Cleaners Cylinder & Upright in Stock

Same day delivery available on all stock domestic appliances from our Chapel Showroom Manufacturers include: Beko, Hotpoint, Miele, Bosch, Siemens

01747 860215

Major Credit Cards Accepted

Salisbury Street, MERE, Wiltshire, BA12 6HB sales@jeanselectrical.co.uk • www.jeanselectrical.co.uk

Also: Chapel

Showroom, Boar Street, BA12 6DD

INDESIT • HOOVER / CANDY • LIEBHERR • ELECTROLUX • HUMAX • GLEN DIMPLEX

Breakfast available from 9am

After a recent change in ownership, The Butt of Sherry in Mere has been able to offer homemade locally supplied food at great prices in this small country pub. They provide breakfast from 9am during the winter and a full lunch menu including sandwiches and baguettes until 6pm; freshly made pizzas on a Friday and Saturday night, and a superb roast for Sunday lunch. Along with this they offer a selection of real ales, lagers and cider.

Once a month they also provide live music and on the 22nd of November they will welcome back acoustic favourite Jim Ramsey.

INDESIT • HOOVER / CANDY • LIEBHERR • ELECTROLUX • HUMAX • GLEN DIMPLEX

MERE

The Butt of Sherry

A firm favourite for great value family dining ...

The

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

NESTLING on the outskirts of the beautiful town of Mere and under the same ownership since it opened its doors for the first time in 2006 The Walnut Tree remains a firm favourite for great value family dining in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Husband and wife team Mark and Samantha Cassidy have a simple ethos that has stood them in good stead with over 25 years experience in the catering industry. “We do the simple things well” says Mark. “We cater for people who want good quality, traditional, well sourced and prepared food in comfortable surroundings at very reasonable prices. We have a marvellous team of enthusiastic and friendly staff who are proud of what they do, and love to see satisfied customers returning.”

With a menu packed full of traditional favourites, including beer battered fish and chips, fishcakes, homemade burgers, succulent steaks and curries you’ll also find the likes of roasted rump of Somerset lamb, herb crusted salmon and slow cooked pork belly with cider gravy and crackling on the special’s board. The Walnut is well known too for its’ gluten free offering with many of the main courses being available as gluten free if required. Vegetarians don’t miss out either as the kitchen has a regularly changing choice of delicious options on the blackboards. If it’s the children who dictate where the family goes to eat then rest assured the children’s menu at The Walnut Tree has more than enough choice to cater for the most “discerning” young diner. All the desserts are homemade by Samantha and the team with firm favourites such as chocolate fudge cake, sticky toffee pudding and brandy snap baskets making regular appearances as some of the regular favourites.

The culinary highlight of the week at The Walnut has to be the Sunday Carvery which is well known throughout the three counties as one of the best around! With a choice of four slowly roasted meats sourced locally and at least eight different potato and vegetable choices along with giant homemade Yorkies, Sunday lunch really is a special treat that people keep coming back for week after week. Booking is essential on Sunday lunchtime but fear not as they serve all day long until 9pm!

So next time you wonder where to visit for a spot of lunch, a well kept pint of ale or chilled glass of wine, a relaxing evening out, or one of the finest Sunday carveries you’re likely to encounter, you couldn’t do much better than a visit to The Walnut Tree Inn Mere.

Festive Feast Menu

Served Tuesday – Sunday from 6pm

On Friday and Saturday Nights the Traditional Christmas Dinner will be served from the Carvery

STARTERS Chef’s homemade Winter vegetable soup with crusty bread Chicken liver and brandy pate with toast and chutney Baked and stuffed field mushroom on crostini Prawn cocktail with brown bread and butter Rosemary breaded brie with cranberry and port sauce

MAIN COURSES Roast turkey & glazed gammon with traditional festive accompaniments Roasted rump of Somerset lamb with port jus (£5 supp) Slow braised boozy beef Bourgignon Baked cod with herb crust Mature rib-eye steak with triple cooked chips, roasted tomato ... and rocket (£5 supp) Roasted pork loin with brandy and apple gravy Roasted vegetable upside down pie DESSERTS Profiteroles with warm chocolate and butterscotch sauces Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and ice cream Bailey’s Irish cheesecake Brandy snap with lemon sorbet and winter berries A selection of cheeses, biscuits and chutney Coffee and mints 2 courses & coffee £15  3 courses & coffee £20

Lighter Lunch Menu

Served Monday – Friday Lunchtimes until 4pm

STARTERS Chef’s homemade Winter vegetable soup with crusty bread Breaded whitebait with tartare sauce Chicken liver and brandy pate with toast and chutney Prawn cocktail with brown bread and butter MAIN COURSES Roast turkey with traditional festive accompaniments Baked cod with citrus and herb butter Slow braised boozy beef Roasted pork loin with brandy and apple gravy Roasted vegetable upside down pie

DESSERTS Profiteroles with warm chocolate and butterscotch sauces Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Sticky syrup sponge pudding with custard Bailey’s Irish cheesecake Coffee and mints 2 courses & coffee £12  3 courses & coffee £15 Menus served from Wednesday 26th November - Saturday 3rd January Excludes Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

Shaftesbury Road, MERE, Wiltshire BA12 6BH  01747 861220 www.walnut-tree-inn.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 35

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

HI! HOW ARE YOU TODAY? Oooops, I thought we were still in the Good ‘ol U.S. of A! Yes, the Baxter crew has been stateside recently in the never-ending mission of bringing news to you good people out there in Visitor land some of the exciting things happening on the beer front. We did do some touring as well, and I can definitely report that over the pond the beer scene is thriving.

Hopefully my reader will recall the semi-regular mentions of

36 THE VISITOR November 2014

American beers in this column.

Having my God-son in Atlanta and his parents taking twiceyearly trips it means there are some fantastic bottled beers that wing their way East. What they are obviously unable to do is bring back their draught craft ales, so it became necessary for myself and the better half to join them in a pilgrimage.

This was the first proper trip I had taken to America and the thing I was immediately impressed by was the prompt and friendly attention we had from those in the service industries.

Whilst I appreciate that the ‘servers’ rely heavily on tips (some places only pay $2.30 per hour flat rate) so it’s essential for them to be helpful, and on the bills there are less than subtle hints about the size of tips!

Nevertheless, they all seem to have an extremely good knowledge of the food and drink available, without referring to the menus or going off to ask.

Whatever the reasons, I strongly believe that the Brits could learn much from the way our cousins carry out their business!

The first brewery we visited was ‘Nantahala’ at Bryson City, North Carolina (population just 1440) ‘in the shadow of the Great

Vinny checks out the seating arrangements at the recently re-opened Mildmay Arms - Queen Camel

Smokey Mountains National Park’ where we had a few beers at their ‘pub’. This was really a large drinking establishment in the style of ‘farm barn meets portacabin’ and nothing like any of our own pubs! There was a MASSIVE screen on each side and two more behind the bar, all showing that incomprehensible game of (American) football.

Now, thinking about this and all the beers we sampled, I could bang on about them and their wonderful flavours but for a full description of what they have available please do take a look at their web-site. (Anyway; I don’t want to make you jealous). The pub was across the road from the railway station (Railroad depot,

pronounced dee-po!) from where we took a trip up the valley of the Tuckasegee river. (Okay; I’ll stop here).

Interestingly the ‘brew pubs’ have a specific definition in the States – unlike this country. The interest in some quality beer was rekindled after 1974 when their laws were relaxed over what one could brew at home. This was further stimulated thanks to influence from English and Belgian ales, and the Americans are even humble enough to give credit to those two countries for that. Whilst the pubs are generally nothing like what we experience the beers on draught are almost exclusively ‘craft’ (i.e. not ‘real’ as in the CAMRA definition) but this does not mean they cannot be full-bodied and flavoursome.

Heading from Atlanta about 250 miles South East to Savannah (the oldest city in Georgia, and appropriately nicknamed ‘The Hostess City of the South’) we found several good places to eat – and drink, and despite the fact I generally detest cities, I have to say that Savannah is a joy to visit. It consists of many park-like squares, some 22 out of the original 24 still exist, and the city is largely still as designed by James Oglethorpe. It would be impossible for me to even attempt to give the city justice in a few lines, but in our three nights spent there I can definitely state it was a joy, from a river trip on a (pretend!) Mississippi-style boat, to the large range of river-

The

Pub Pages

front bars and restaurants, of which we visited several, to the walks and guided tours around Savannah itself. There were also pubs along the busy main drag where we visited ‘Churchill’s’ an ‘English-style pub’ (allegedly) which is owned and designed by its Manchester founders, and to the near-by ‘Moon River’ brewpub where we returned for a second evening to sample the food as well as the beer. As usual, the staff were attentive and knowledgeable, and one can even view the fermenters through the large glass partitions on the left side of the pub.

To all of you good people who enjoy a quality glass of beer and are considering going to the States, then please do check out the information which is available on the ‘net’ as well as specialist bookshops and CAMRA. I can guarantee there will be something that will be right up your street as virtually every town and city (City in America means little; there are ‘cities’ that consist of a handful of houses!) will have their own brew-pubs.

All the beer is served at the expected temperature, i.e. too cold, but that suits the American palate and with the weather we experienced it makes sense, and anyway it is no problem to let the temperature come round a little.

So, after an entertaining couple of weeks, on heading back home we even found ‘Sweetwater I. P. A.’ in a bar at the vast Atlanta

airport! Although less than 4% of the beer consumed in the States is of the craft style, it is certainly well-established into the American psyche.

So whilst I’m off to see our beloved Editor about my expenses; y’all have a good day now!

Country Pub Raises Over £3000 for Combat Stress

The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague, has raised a whopping 3K for the Forces Charity ‘Combat Stress’ by holding a Trafalgar Night Dinner in the function room at the Pub. The Event was attended by no less than 5 Admirals, which included Ex Second Sea Lord Admiral Sir Michael Layard KCB, CBE who gave an excellent account of Nelsons Life and the Battle at Trafalgar in particular.

Other Guests included, Admiral Sir George Zambellas KCB, DSC, ADC, DL the present First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the Royal Navy. We must not forget retired Rear Admiral Frank Grenier CB, who is now a world reknowned glass engraver who presented an engraved goblet, representing the Battle of Trafalgar, which was sold by auction on the night and raised over £600 of the £3K. Frank has his workshop in North Cadbury and has seen many of his commissions displayed worldwide. Not least the Operation Neptune Memorial at ‘Le Memorial’ near Caen.

The Dinner was conducted with a little formality to give it some shape, however, the main theme was to have fun and the whole assembly have already sent their thanks and congratulations to the Montague Inn for the impressive food and wines of the evening, plus the choreography and execution of the event.

This is not the first fundraising initiative by the Montague Inn, as during the 9 years at the pub

The CROWN Inn

Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EP WEDNESDAY MUSIC

Nov 12th: Trad Jazz Nov 19th: Folk Evening Nov 26th: Open Mic’ Night Tel: 01935 816115

Sean and Suzy O’Callaghan have raised around £40k for various charities both Military and Civilian.

The Montague Inn is also a Multi Award Winning Pub, not just for its charitable nature but for its food and wines on a day to day basis. Noted by Tripadvisor, as 1 of 16 in the Wincanton postcode and winners of the Somerset Food Awards twice in three years, plus other regional and national awards.

This is a gem of a destination Pub, halfway to everywhere in the middle of nowhere. They cater for all parties large and small and have several function rooms of varying sizes.

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

IN OVER STRATTON a Quiz will be held at The Royal Oak on the 30th November, 8pm start all welcome ... enjoy a pint of Barrington Boar at The Barrington Boar, Barrington their own unique ale ... check out the supper club at The Lord Poulett Arms, Hinton St George, served between 5 and 7 just £9.95 ... a well supported Hamdon Ha

Ha at The Lord Nelson Norton sub Hamdon recently where the Name the Stone Man competition is currently being run ... its fifteen years of successful trading and still going strong at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock which is considerably more than two weeks ... join in the Hallowe’en fun at The Nags Head in Martock ... enjoy the taste of France at The White Hart with Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations ... and well done to The Orangery Brasserie at Ash House Hoyel in Ash on their recent accolade from Somerset Life of Best Hotel Restaurant.

Yomping on to Yeovil where you can now enjoy a Carvery at The Plucknett ... The Fleur de Lys has been sold to the Co-op ... always a warm welcome at The Quicksilver Mail ... delicious faggots at The Half Moon Inn Mudford ... and the quiz night was well supported and a close contest at The Crown & Victoria Tintinhull, where fresh fish and chips provided brain power to the winning team.

Skipping on to Sherborne where the Iain Houston Quartet will be playing at The Plume of Feathers on the 15th November ... The George is looking very smart with its newly decorated frontage ... not one but two silver

Wyndham Arms

Rob & Lin welcome you to the

KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK SOMERSET TA12 6AT

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

Christmas bookings now being taken CHRISTMAS MENUS Available 5th – 23rd December Lunchtime Christmas Menu 2014

2 Course - £12.95  3 Course - £15.95  4 Course - £16.95

Dinner Christmas Menu 2014

2 Course - £15.95  3 Course - £18.95  4 Course - £19.95

4 DRAUGHT CIDERS now available Burrow Hill (Dry) • Thatchers Gold Stowford Press • Ashton Press (Still)

CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE 2015

Tel: 01935 823239

Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com to see full menu details

THE VISITOR November 2014 37

They Say

That the ‘fun’ window of One World in South Petherton was a deserved winner in the recent Shop Window competition.

That when it comes to washing your hair, there’s nothing quite like having a thorough job done at your local carwash, according to Mrs Maureen Taylor of Gillingham.

That Cindy of A-2-B Mobility in Martock looks good in a tutu when visiting Minehead.

That it must have been the Snake & Pigmy Pie that rattled Martin Dodge’s cage whilst in Cornwall.

That Knitting Nancy has taken up residence in the window of Sherborne’s Sue Ryder Charity Shop.

That back in the summer, Madge Hawkins of Yeovil ‘frightened’ her son-in-law, Albert Ford, by suggesting she was to take her top off after chocolate from her ice-lolly melted on her T-shirt.

That Karen of the Camelot Inn South Cadbury, has a love of Polo mints.

That since appearing on television earlier in the year, David Mounsteven of Hurst is contemplating Strictly Come Dancing and The Splash subject to costumes.

That once October has arrived, Chiselborough’s Michelle Trulock is in her boots until Spring - is this little gem true?

That Northern Soul fans should tune into the radio station of James Hope of Martock.

That Tenerife has recently been ‘stormed’ ... no, not by hurricane Gonzalo - but by a contingent from Norton Sub Hamdon.

That at the Rose & Crown in Bradford Abbas - a wheelbarrow taxi service can be supplied for those that are worse for wear.

That Julie Harvey of Corscombe has been suffering from Needles and Pins of late,

That due to even more forthcoming EEC legislation we should all purchase our hair dryers and lawn mowers while they are fit for purpose, and before they go the way of vacuums and light bulbs.

That unfortunately, Katherine Jenkins did not make an appearance at the Jewellers of Yeovil.

That Di of the Lamb & Lark at Limington is soon hoping to put her foot down!

That a Lion has gone missing in Mere.

38 THE VISITOR November 2014

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

“There’s a room where the light won't find you Holding hands while the walls come tumbling down”

FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink. Last month, no one guessed that it was “Flower of Scotland” for all our Scottish readers who will now be sticking with us after their referendum  .

Well, another month has rolled by and sadly I have to report the loss of another pub in Yeovil. The Fleur De Lys pub has been sold by Punch Taverns (who incidentally own The Quicksilver and about half a dozen other hostelries in and around Yeovil) to The Co-op. So we are now going to have another stop ‘n’ shop where you can pick up cheap washing powder and tea bags, but from now on the skittle alley and dart board are going to be out of bounds . The Pub Co’s should be called property Co.’s because that’s all they are interested in these days. Don’t believe me? Go take a look at what was the garden of The Pen Mill Hotel … Nice  .

Good news for the beer drinkers in town. The Quicksilver is in the Good Beer Guide for next year so very pleased about that (not always the Grumpy Landlord)  .

This month Barry Paull came along with his Elvis Show and the party crowd from the Hospice managed to raise over £400, so good work all round. He will be back next year in February.

Earlier this year a young lady by the name of Karen Hislop contacted me from Australia where she had moved to from Yeovil about 20 years ago. She said she wanted to have a bit of a reunion of her chums that she left behind so she set about getting hold of the “Class of 79” from Westfield School and what a party we had!!! Great bunch of people who I am sure would have gone on reminiscing ‘til four in the morning if we had let them. Well done Karen!

Ten years ago a young lady by the name of Wendy celebrated her 40th birthday here and she came back this month to celebrate the big 5Ohh. Brilliant party, lots of fancy dress, some great music, and a few drinkies, well done Wendy!

Next month we have Karaoke on the first Friday of the month. Out of the ashes of a brilliant band called Crosswired, a new band called Livewired has been formed: they make their debut here on the 14th. Hells Bells the AC/DC tribute band will be here on the 21st (Tickets available from the pub). On the 25th we have an Evening with Spirit Marcus from Bristol making a welcome return. On the 28th we have an album launch party when the fabulous Mutter Slater showcases his latest work: we have a support band and a buffet that evening it will be a great party. Tickets £5 available from the pub and Acorn Music. And on the 30th we have a Charity Quiz which kicks off at 8pm.

Finally one of our regulars came back from his holiday and he can’t stop buying raffle tickets … reckon he’s got Tombola.  TOOT TOOT!!!

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

The

Pub Pages

awards from the Dorset Tourist Industry for The Eastbury Hotel ... and its all change at The Queens Head, Milborne Port.

Cantering on to Corton Denham where congratulations go to Jeanette Gordon and her team at The Queens Arms who have been awarded 2AA Rosettes for their food and 5AA Stars for their accommodation ... at The Camelot, in South Cadbury, the new chef has introduced a new menu ... fun for all the family at The Montague Inn, Shepton Montague on Firework Night 5th November ... on 12th November the French Touring Duo Jac and Co will be delighting diners at Truffles Brasserie, Bruton with timeless classics - early booking advised ... Jurassic Ale guesting at The Natterjack, Evercreech Junction to be followed by

Exmoor Ale ... and finally, congratulations go to Jools and Sally at The Pilgrims, Lovington, who took Best South West B&B in the Taste of the West Awards.

GUESS THE NAME OF THE STONE MAN

This Stone Man can be found outside The Lord Nelson in Norton Sub Hamdon. All you have to do is guess his name (each entry costs £1). The entry with the winning name will receive a meal for 2 at the Nellie.

Money raised will be donated to the Breast Care Unit at Yeovil District Hospital. Don’t delay enter today!

The Butt of Sherry in Mere is now under new ownership.

The Rose & Crown

Bradford Abbas • Tel: 01935 474506

Saturday 1st November – No Fixed Abode Saturday 15th November – Storm Saturday 22nd November – John Raymond

Sunday 30th November: Quiz Night in aid of Sparkford Under 12 Cricket Team SUNDAY CARVERY £8.95

 CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU available   CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH £49.95  Early booking advised – Limited space

B&B

Thursdays: TWO 8oz RUMP & BOTTLE OF WINE £25

Crown & Victoria Mark & Isabel welcome you to the ...

Farm Street TINTINHULL Nr. Yeovil BA22 8PZ

O CHRISTMAS DAY MENU 2014 O £ 75 per person • £ 37.50 for children under 12 years old This menu is only available to parties who have pre-booked and pre-ordered

STARTERS Godminster Cheddar and Onion Soup with crispy shallots and pickled apples served with a crusty bread roll Pan Fried Scallops with caper, raisin and olive vinaigrette Game Terrine glazed in port jelly with cranberry compote served with sour dough toast Gin Cured Salmon with buttermilk pancakes and maple syrup ***** Champagne Sorbet

***** MAI NS Roast Crown & Victoria Turkey with sage and onion stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, port and cranberry sauce, seasonal vegetables and turkey gravy Pan Roasted Creedy Carver Duck Breast with honey glazed bacon, potato pancakes and seasonal vegetables Roasted Fore Rib of Beef with red wine sauce, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables Roasted Turbot Viennoise with grain mustard sabayon and celeriac gratin dauphinoise potatoes served with seasonal vegetables Caramelised Shallot and Tomato Tart Tatin with walnut pesto and pomme puree served with seasonal vegetables SWEETS Homemade Christmas Pudding with dark rum sauce and brandy butter Caramelised Pears baked in a thin brioche crust with pistachio ice cream Lemon Verbena Creams with charred lemon and meringues Sticky Toffee Pudding with caramelised banana, toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream A Selection of Local Cheeses with “Fudges of Stalbridge” biscuits and spicy gooseberry chutney ***** Coffee and Mince Pies *****

O CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2014 O £22.95 per person for 3 courses • £ 19.95 per person for 2 courses This menu is only available to parties who have pre-booked and pre-ordered

STARTERS Celeriac and Bramley Apple Soup with Dorset Blue Vinny and toasted walnuts Chicken Liver Pate with toasted sour dough bread and spicy tomato chutney Baked Camembert with caramelised onion marmalade and parsley & garlic fuccacia Gin Cured Salmon with buttermilk pancakes and creme fraiche

MAI NS Roast Crown & Victoria Turkey with sage and onion stuffing, sausage wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, port and cranberry sauce and fresh vegetables Braised Brisket of Beef in a red wine sauce, horseradish dumplings, creamy mash potatoes and fresh vegetables Pan Fried Line Caught Sea Bass with celeriac and potato gratin, lemongrass veloute, kumquat marmalade and fresh vegetables Mushroom Wellington with cranberry & port sauce, mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables SWEETS Homemade Christmas Pudding with dark rum sauce and brandy butter Sticky Toffee Pudding with toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream Lemon Posset with fennel and almond biscotti A Selection of Somerset Cheeses with “Fudges of Stalbridge” biscuits and spicy gooseberry chutney (£ 2.50 surcharge) ***** Coffee and Mince Pies

***** Where possible our food is locally sourced and free range / organic.

It is freshly prepared and made here at The Crown & Victoria Inn. If you have any specific dietary needs please let us know.

AA Rosette Award For Culinary Excellence 2013 / 2014

reAl lOG Fire • BeAuTiFul GArDenS • reAl AleS AmPle PArkinG • enSuiTe ACCOmmODATiOn

Bookings Tel: 01935 823341

Fax: 01935 825786 • Email: info@thecrownandvictoria.co.uk www.thecrownandvictoria.co.uk

The Visitor Guide to your local

Festive Venues And Menus

Hooray for Hollywood themed

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

7.30pm – 2.00am  £65.00 per person Canapé́s on Arrival ~~ Lobster Bisque, Saffron and Crab Claw Tortellini with Cockle Popcorn and Somerset Cider Brandy Venison Carpaccio, Horseradish Cream, Caper Berries, Croutons & Mustard Leaves Goats Cheese and Black Olive Bonbon with Beetroot Textures ~~ Creedy Carver Duck Breast, Char-grilled Liver, Celeriac Dauphinoise, Crown Prince Squash Puree and Star Anise Jus Pan Fried Halibut with Hand Dived Scallops, Crushed Apple Potatoes, Crispy Shallots and Sea Beet Mixed Bean and Vegetable Suet Pudding with Truffle Polenta Cake, Poached Goose Egg and Smoked Pepper Jus ~~ Chocolate Soufflé with Pistachio Ice Cream Trio of Desserts: Blood Orange and Date Steamed Pudding, Mulled Wine, Poached Pear and Cinnamon Ice Cream Hazelnut Praline Ice Cream Mille-Feuille with Homemade Marshmallows and Candied Hazelnuts ~~ Chef Selection of Somerset Cheeses with Celery and Grapes All bookings of 4 or more people made before 30th November 2014 will receive a FREE TAXI HOME up to 8-mile radius.

A 50% non refundable deposit is required, per person, at time of booking.

To book please call 01963 220317 or email relax@thequeensarms.com

The Queens Arms

Corton Denham, SHERBORNE, Somerset, DT9 4LR Email: relax@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com Tel: 01963 220317

THE VISITOR November 2014 39

The Visitor Guide to your local

Festive Venues And Menus

The

Stag’s Head Inn Yarlington, nr. Wincanton Somerset, BA9 8DG Tel: 01963 440393

SOMERSET’S HIDDEN GEM ...

In a truly picture postcard setting you will find this charming 1850 traditional inn with its log fires, friendly atmosphere and good service.

All meals are prepared by our Award Winning Chef Paul Tapping.

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

Christmas Menu 2014 Available 1st – 24th December

STARTERS

Goats Cheese and Cranberry Tortellini (V) with salad and parmesan.

Shell on King Prawns, cooked with garlic, chilli lime and butter, served with cranberry and pumpkin seed bread and a salad garnish.

Homemade Breaded Brie (V) with port and cranberry sauce and salad.

Salmon Mousse and Gravelaux, home made Scottish salmon mousse encased with gravelaux, served with salad and toasted brown bread.

Baked Field Mushrooms (V) filled with spring onion, garlic, tomato and Montgomery cheddar.

Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup (V) served with an organic white roll and butter. *******************

MAIN COURSE

The

Lord Nelson

Rectory Lane Norton Sub Hamdon

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

GOOD FOOD - GOOD BEER - GREAT ATMOSPHERE

Christmas Menu STARTERS

Slow roasted belly pork sat on caramelised apples served with sticky ginger beer sauce

Somerset smokies ... smoked haddock with apple in a cider and cream sauce topped with melted cheese served with side salad and sliced ciabatta bread Terrine of game served with gooseberry relish, toast and salad Sweet potato soup with toasted cashew nuts

MAINS

Roast turkey with all the festive trimmings

Lamb rump with port and redcurrant jus served with fresh vegetables and dauphinois potatoes

Beef bourguignonne with grain mustard mash and fresh vegetables

Pan fried roast chicken fillet with mushroom, black pepper and sherry sauce with fresh vegetables and dauphinois potatoes Tart with baked spinach mousse with sundried tomato and topped with Caerphilly cheese with salad and dauphinois

DESSERTS

Merry Christmas posset … meringue, lemon and ammeretto cream with wild berries and a shortbread biscuit Christmas pudding with brandy sauce

Espresso cheesecake with chocolate covered coffee beans on a nut base Chocolate trio ... chocolate brownie with raspberries profiteroles and white chocolate brulee ALL AVAILABLE GLUTEN FREE £ 24 for 3 Courses • £19 for 2 Courses

Saturday 1st November: SOMERSET PADDIES Sunday 2nd November: QUIZ NIGHT by Gordon McBain In aid of the British Legion Poppy Appeal Tuesday 11th November: MOVIE NIGHT Friday 21st November: BARRY PAULL (Elvis) Saturday 29th November: TRANSITION COVER ORIGINALS

COURTYARD  BEER GARDEN AT REAR AMPLE PARKING OPEN ALL DAY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Tel: 01935 881473

40 THE VISITOR November 2014

www.thelordnelson.biz

Traditional Roast Turkey with almond and apricot stuffing, bacon roll, chipolata and seasonal vegetables.

Sea Bass Fillets on a bed of asparagus spears, served with a sun blushed tomato and dill butter.

Local Lamb Rump, studded with garlic and rosemary with a hint of mustard. Served pink, with a red wine and red currant jus.

Mushroom, Cranberry, Spinach and Brie Wellington (V) served with a cranberry and port sauce.

Andrew Barclay’s 8oz Sirloin Steak, with a Diane sauce and cooked to your liking.

Supreme of Chicken, chicken breast filled with goats cheese in a creamy white wine sauce with bacon, apricot and herbs. *******************

DESSERT

Mango and Raspberry Brûlée (V) with home made shortbread.

Traditional Christmas Pudding, served with clotted cream.

Winter Berry Pudding (V) a twist on the classic summer pudding served with clotted cream.

Dark Chocolate and Baileys Torte (V) served with Lovington’s vanilla ice cream.

Cheeseboard (V) a selection of local cheeses with biscuits and grapes.

White Chocolate and Tia Maria Cheesecake, topped with blackcurrant jelly, served with ice cream.

To include Christmas Party accessories and your choice of fresh tea or coffee to finish

Two courses £17.95 ✴ Three courses £22.95 *******************

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE!

The Visitor Guide to your local

Festive Venues And Menus

Mildmay Arms Christmas at the ...

Queen Camel • BA22 7NJ 28th November – 10th January (2015)

All our Dishes are Homemade and where possible, locally sourced STARTERS

Creamed Spiced Parsnip and Apple Soup served with Herb Roasted Croutons Duck Liver and Cognac Parfait, Apricot and Quince Chutney served with Toasted Brioche

Organic Scottish Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese and Chive Terrine with Wild Rocket and Cucumber Salad, Crusty Brown Bread and Citrus Vinaigrette MAINS

Roast Turkey Lobe, Chestnut and Sausage Meat Duxelle, Merlot & Redcurrant Juz served with Festive Trimmings and Rosemary Roasted Potatoes* Pan Seared Venison Steak, Fondant Potatoes and a Cranberry Cumberland Sauce* Pan Fried Fillet of Sea Bass, Shellfish Bisque, crusted New Potatoes and garnished with Samphire*

Roast Vegetable, Brie and Redcurrant Wellington served with a roasted Red Pepper & Cherry Tomato Juz with Rosemary Roasted Potatoes* *All served with a Medley of Seasonal Vegetables DESSERTS

Rich Chocolate and Orange Torte served with Clotted Cream and Redcurrants Irish Cream Cheesecake, Spiced Berry Coulis and Clotted Cream

West Country Cheeseboard, Homemade Chutney and a selection of Rustic Biscuits White Chocolate and Raspberry Crème Brûlée, Christmas Pudding Ice Cream and a Shortbread Biscuit 2 Courses - £17.95 • 3 Courses - £22.95* *Complimentary Coffee and Mince Pie when 3 Courses are chosen Hats and Crackers included

Bookings now being taken for ...

‘A Night with Disney’ New Year’s Eve Party

Email: mildmayarms@yahoo.com •  01935 850456 www.themildmayarms.co.uk

ROYAL OAK

Chris & Jill welcome you to the ...

Over Stratton SOUTH PETHERTON

A Charming Country Inn ... where dining out won’t break the bank

O

CHRISTMAS FAYRE

O

Leek & Potato Soup finished with herb croutons Crispy Bacon and Wild Mushroom Salad Chicken Liver, Red Wine & Garlic Pate served with Melba toast Deep Fried Brie & Cranberry Sauce served with water biscuits

* * * * * * * * * Traditional Roast Turkey served with bacon, chipolata & stuffing Baked Hake finished with lobster and prawn sauce Beef Bourguignonne - tender pieces of beef cooked with red wine, bacon, mushrooms & onions Roasted Ratatouille Pancakes finished with tomato & basil sauce All served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes

* * * * * * * * * Christmas Pudding and Brandy Sauce Apple and Mincemeat Crumble served with custard Vanilla and Nutmeg Crème Brûlée Strawberry and Clotted Cream Cheesecake served with cream * * * * * * * * * 2 Courses – £14.95  3 Courses – £18.95

Available Tuesday 2nd December – Tuesday 23rd December

For enquiries please phone 01460 240906

THE VISITOR November 2014 41

The Visitor Guide to your local

Festive Venues And Menus

HOTEL West Street • SOMERTON • TA11 7PR

Delicious food served ...

12noon – 2pm and 6pm – 9pm Monday - Friday Lunchtimes

Senior Citizen Menu £ 5.95 Daily Specials Board and Bar Snacks also served

CHRiSTMAS MENU Served 1st – 24th December

2 Courses £15.95 3 Courses £19.95 Party Bookings - why not enjoy a Game of Skittles as well as your Christmas Meal?

For menus and booking forms please visit our website

www.unicorn-somerton.co.uk SkiTTlE AllEy and FUNCTiON ROOM Accommodation from £50 per night B&B Watch our website for special room rates The Unicorn Hotel

42 THE VISITOR November 2014

Tel: 01458 272101

Montague Inn

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

Shepton Montague nr. Bruton Tel: 01749 813213

Charity Fireworks Night Wednesday 5th November Entry ‒ £5, under 16s ‒ £3 Winter Fare available ...

Stews, Burgers, Hot Dogs, etc.

Supper & Music Night with

The Jo Burt Experience Saturday 22nd November FREE ADMISSION ... with £12.50 Supper Deal

The Visitor Guide to your local

Festive Venues And Menus

O Christmas Party Menu O Starters

Spiced Pumpkin Soup with Crème Fraiche Free Range Duck Liver Parfait with Brandy & Thyme, Melba Toast Venison, Juniper & Port Terrine, Crusty Bread & Homemade Chutney Crab & Parmesan Arancini, Dressed Roquette Leaves & Marie Rose Dressing Home Baked Mini Loaf filled with Truffled Wild Mushrooms

Mains

Ballotine of Our Own Turkeys with a Cranberry & Parsley Farce, served with all the trimmings Individual Steak & Port Suet Pudding with Caramelised Onions & Sauce Borderlaise Home Hot Smoked Salmon Supreme Celeriac & White Onion Gratin, Roasted Beetroot & Braised Leeks Fig, Blue Cheese & Walnut Pastry Tart Local Winter Leaves & Thymed Polenta Chips

Desserts

Our Own Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Chocolate Truffle Torte with a Berry Sauce Mulled Wine Poached Pear, Brandy Snap & Kirsch Cream West Country Cheese Plate

3 Courses £24.50

10% DISCOuNT for Monday to Thursday & Lunchtime Bookings As our dishes are freshly prepared we are able within reason to cater for most food intolerances, however, we cannot guarantee that our food is totally nut free.

Please bring any dietary requirements or allergies to the attention of our staff who will be happy to discuss the menu with you. We are not aware that any of our ingredients contain GM foods. All prices are inclusive of 20% VAT.

O C H R I S T M A S D Ay O Full details on website www.themontagueinn.co.uk

O N E W y E A R’S E V E O Four Course Menu

Evening includes: Glass of Bubbly, Fireworks at Midnight Live Entertainment, Taxi Home within 10 miles radius!

Only ‒ £75

Truffles BRASSERIE

95 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AR

Truffles’ Taste of the West Christmas Party Menu

1st – 24th December £19.95 p.p. (£10 age 12 and under) This menu is for pre-booked parties only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other menu ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ STARTERS Pâté: Beech Ridge Farm free range duck liver pâté, generously accompanied with two chutneys and toast.

Soup: Montgomery’s gold medal Cheddar cheese and leek heart-warming soup with crusty bread.

Trout: Mere Farm cold smoked trout, blinis, Olive Farm’s unpasteurised Guernsey milk crème fraiche and dill sauce ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ MAINS Traditional Roast Free Range Turkey: Home Farm (Redlynch) bronze turkey with pigs in blankets, chestnut stuffing, lashings of turkey gravy, cranberry sauce and bread sauce Brisket Wellington: Our own Dexter Beef slow cooked for six hours in red wine with baby onions, wild mushrooms and smoked pork, wrapped in all butter puff pastry with more wild mushrooms and mustard accompanied by a jug of its own beautiful gravy Duck Egg & Vegetable Tart: Capricorn goats cheese, spinach and chestnuts set in a pastry case with Longmans’ duck eggs with a rich tarragon mustard sauce.

Smoked Haddock & Crab Bake: Chesil Smokery haddock fillet baked in West Country double cream with fresh Brixham crab, all topped off with a herb crust.

All served with local roast potatoes, buttered baby brussels sprouts and roast seasonal root vegetables ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ DESSERTS Boozy Christmas Pudding: with very brandied butter Heck’ Kingston Black Cider and Toffee Apple Pudding and real custard

Really Really Chocolatey Yuletide Christmas Log with Midway Farm clotted cream Lovington’s Outstanding Lemon Sorbet Chef’ Personal, within 10 miles of Truffles, Cheese Selection We ask that you make meal selections at least 7 days prior to your intended booking. £5 per person deposit required on booking. In the event of cancellation the deposit will be returned in full provided we have at least 24 hours notice.

Bookings for Christmas Day Luncheon now being taken, see website for details.

Bookings call: 01749 812180 or email: trufflesbruton@gmail.com www.trufflesbrasserie.com

THE VISITOR November 2014 43

The Visitor Guide to your local

Festive Venues And Menus

MUDDLED MAN

Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to ...

The

Lower Street, West Chinnock Tel: 01935 881235

Pre-Christmas Dinners Group Dinner Bookings 2 Courses + Coffee – £16 * 3 Courses + Coffee – £18

Game Casserole: Sunday 21st December Christmas Day Dinner

Drink on Arrival, 7 Course Meal, Half Bottle of Wine – £60 10% OFF for groups of 10 or more Children under 12 Half Price ... Bookings Essential

Boxing Day Buffet – £15 Curry Buffet: Saturday 27th December 12noon – 2.30pm and 6pm – 9.30pm

Book early for Christmas Day & Boxing Day and RECEIVE A DISCOUNT

The White

Lion Inn Bar – Restaurant – Accommodation

Function Room available for your corporate presentations / business meetings – call to book

DAILY SPECIALS • REAL ALES • SKITTLE ALLEY • BEER GARDENS • ACCOMMODATION

www.themuddledman.co.uk

Christmas 2014

STARTERS Chefs Seasonal Vegetable Soup served with Homemade Bread Homemade Chicken Liver, Wild Mushroom and Cognac Pate with Homemade Bread King Prawns in Tempura Batter with Salad and Sweet Chilli Sauce Field Mushroom filled with Spinach, Tomato and Fresh Basil, topped with Mozzarella Baked Brie in Filo Pastry, served with Salad and our own Cumberland Sauce

will appear in our

DECEMBER ISSUE Published: Thursday 27th November Deadline: Friday 14th November New Year Celebrations ...

Burns Night ...

CHRISTMAS / JANUARY ISSUE Published: Thursday 18th December Deadline: Friday 5th December

Tel: 01963 351256 To book your advert in The Visitor Or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

MAINS Roast West Country Turkey, Home Cooked Gammon Ham, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing Roast Sirloin of Local Beef with yorkshire Pudding Herb Crusted Baked Cod with White Wine, Cream and Dill Sauce Poached Chicken Breast, wrapped in Parma Ham, Stuffed with Spinach and Ricotta, served with Cream and Tarragon Sauce Roasted Root Vegetable Goulash served over Spinach Linguini Wild Mushroom Stroganoff and Rice PuDDINGS Forest Berry Shortbread Lemon and Lime Cheesecake Christmas Pudding with Brandy Custard Apple and Mulled Berry Crumble served with Clotted Cream Three Chocolate Brownie and Ice-Cream Selection of Cheese and Biscuits 2 Courses £16.95 ★ 3 Courses £ 21.50

High Street, Bourton, Dorset, SP8 5AT Tel: 01747 840866

Email: relax@whitelionbourton.co.uk • www.whitelionbourton.co.uk 44 THE VISITOR November 2014

The Visitor Guide to your local West Stour • Nr Gillingham • Dorset • SP8 5RP

The versatile menu at The Ship Inn caters both for those who want a hearty sandwich and a pint, to those who want to enjoy a full three-course meal with a decent bottle of wine.

Our dishes are a blend of the traditional and the not so familiar, with a specials board and fresh fish board that offer further daily choices. We pride ourselves on using local and seasonal ingredients as much as possible and all dishes are freshly prepared and cooked to order. ______________________

Christmas Menu 2014 3 courses £24.95 / 2 courses £18.95 (coffee & mince pies included)

BOOKINGS AND PRE-ORDERS ONLY Available Lunch or Evening from 1st December to 24th December 2014

Starters

Cheddar, onion & real ale soup, freshly baked homemade bread Chicken, pistachio & ham terrine, festive chutney, toasted homemade bread and dressed leaves

Tian of smoked mackerel & horseradish topped with fresh prawns, citrus & dill mayo Toasted brioche topped with mushrooms in a garlic and tarragon cream, balsamic glaze

Mains

Roast breast of turkey, cranberry stuffing, pigs in blankets, bread sauce, roast potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables & pan gravy Pheasant, bacon & leek stroganoff, garlic & rosemary Parmentier potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables

Mushroom, spinach & leek wellington, blue cheese sauce, parsnip dauphinoise, fresh seasonal vegetables

Pan-fried fillet of hake, watercress cream, chilli & garlic crushed new potatoes, fresh seasonal vegetables

Roasted blade of beef, chorizo, red wine, shallot jus, parsnip dauphinoise, fresh seasonal vegetables

Desserts

Traditional Christmas pudding with warm brandy custard and vanilla ice cream

Dark chocolate & raspberry cheescake, with an amoretti biscuit base and Chantilly cream Vanilla pannacotta with a winter berry cômpote Mississippi mud pie with vanilla ice cream

Tel: 01747 838 640 • Fax: 01747 838 640 Email: mail@shipinn-dorset.com Website: http://www.shipinn-dorset.com

Festive Venues And Menus The Halfway

House Inn Country Lodge

CHILTHORNE DOMER nr. YEOVIL

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

Christmas Party Menu 2 Course – £14.95  3 Course – £19.95

Christmas Day Lunch – £49.95 £25 children 13 years old and under  Bookings Taken Sunday Carvery – £7.95

Lakes & Gardens: FREE fishing for residents

Why not stay over? In one of our 19 Ensuite Rooms

Real Ales • Function Room • Lakes & Garden • Proprietor: Paul T. Rowsell FBII

NATTERJACK INN Adrian & Kate invite you to the

Freehouse with Accommodation

Nr. Evercreech Junction, Evercreech, Somerset, BA4 6NA

 01749 860253 • Email: natterjack@btconnect.com • Web: thenatterjackinn.co.uk

Christmas Party Menu

STARTERS Parsnip & Apple Soup Plaice Goujons, Lemon & Garlic Aioli Goats Cheese & Cherry Tomato Wontons, Chilli Jam Smoked Duck Breast,Orange & Beetroot Salad, Basamic Dressing Ham Hock Terrine, Damson Chutney, Toasted Olive Bread

MAIN COURSE Traditional Roast Turkey with all the trimmings Slow Roast Pork Belly, Mustard Mash, Savoy Cabbage, Cider Sauce Pan Fried Sea Bass, Sunblush tomato & Herb Risotto, Basil Pesto White Nut & Herb Stuffing Terrine, Bread Sauce, Roast Potatoes, Vegetables & Vegetarian Gravy 6oz Sirloin Steak, Daupinoise Potatoes, Vine Tomatoes, Buttered Green Beans & Red Wine Jus (£2.00 supplement) PUDDINGS Homemade Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce Spiced Fruit, Mascarpone & Muscat Semi-Freddo Lemon Posset, Shortbread, Red Berries Chocolate Ripple Cheesecake, Clotted Cream Icecream Selection Of Local Cheeses, Biscuits, Homemade Chutney

Confirmation & Pre Orders required 2 weeks before your visit.

Our Christmas Menu is available from 1st to 24th December 2014 3 Course Menu £23.00 • 2 Course Menu £18.00 available lunchtimes only Booking & Pre-Ordering are required for this menu along with a deposit of £5.00 per person

Join us for New Year’s Eve - 1940s Wartime Theme “Don’t tell ‘em your name Pike” • Music by KAYLEIGH ... see website for more details, or call in!

THE VISITOR November 2014 45

Beaujolais Nouveau

DURING THE EARLY PART of November, once the clocks have gone back, the nights begin to draw in and many of us find we travel to work and return in the dark.

To brighten up the season, the thoughts of many of us, especially those with children, will turn to Hallowe’en, Guy Fawkes, and Bonfire Night. In my case my attention turns towards the latter part of the month, and the release of Beaujolais Nouveau, traditionally at one minute past midnight on the third Thursday, which this year falls on the 20th November. It is expected that literally overnight 35 million bottles will be released onto the market.

The celebration of the uncorking of this young wine, just 6 weeks old, is marked by fireworks, and a massive 3 day long party, called Sarmentelles, in the main town of Beaujeu, which attracts up to 20,000 visitors. The festivity is named after the French word for cuttings from the canes of grapevines called sarments, which are used to make a huge bonfire.

The reason for deciding to hold it on a Thursday is so that wine

lovers across France can celebrate into the weekend as restaurants and bars stay open all night to uncork and sample the new vintage.

Now that our supermarkets have been taken over by wines from the New World, our palates have become more discerning in their search for new experiences.

Hence, there are many who feel that Beaujolais Nouveau is a bit old hat, and tend to turn their nose up at the thought of imbibing this fresh and fruity red wine. It makes a great ‘starter’ wine and is about as close to a white wine as red ever gets; completely lacking the tannins usually associated with red wines.

The wine itself belongs to a category called ‘vins primeurs’, wines sold in the same year in which the grapes were harvested, shortly after fermentation has ceased.

Fermentation takes place by a process known as ‘carbonic maceration’ where after harvesting the grapes are not crushed but are fermented in whole clusters. As the pressure of the fruit near the bottom causes the grapes to release their juice it starts to ferment, creating

Truffles BRASSERIE

95 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AR

Morning Coffee & Breakfast • Prix Fixe Lunch • Dinners All Day Brasserie Menu • Daily Specials Wednesday Special set 2 course menu £10 from 6pm

LIVE MUSIC Wednesday 12th November JAC & Co. (French touring duo) Thursday 20th November Beaujolais Nouveau Evening

C02. Eventually the lack of oxygen causes the grapes to literally explode!

Made exclusively from the Gamay grape, Beaujolais Nouveau is easy to drink and best served chilled. Its fruity character will typically be accompanied by a banana or bubble-gum aroma.

Drinking wine this young dates back to the 19th century, only becoming popular outside France in the 1960s, when it became something of a race to see who could get their hands on a bottle first. Something I remember well from my younger days!

Produced in the Beaujolais region of southern Burgundy, it is always wise to have consumed it by the end of the year as it is not a wine intended for keeping.

It is never going to develop into anything other than what it starts out as. This is why it is important to ensure that whatever you do buy, and it will be on sale for around £6 a bottle, is from a good producer; the most well known being Georges Duboeuf.

Keen to get on the marketing band wagon, in recent years I have seen many other regions release a ‘nouveau’ version of their wines; this can be a way for struggling winemakers who know that their current vintage is not going to produce a stellar wine, to rake in some money early.

Lest I unsettle too many connoisseurs here, I must make clear that other wines from the Beaujolais region bear no comparison to the Nouveau wine about to be released. The ‘crus’

as they are known, can be excellent, a topic for another time, perhaps?

LP-V.

November Notice Board DITCHEAT

Quiz - 8th November at 7.30pm, in Village Hall. Tables of (maximum) 6 people, £10 per table. Bar available.

HENSTRIDGE

Blackmore Vale U3A, talk on The Titanic and my Wiltshire Family, also AGM, Tuesday 4th November at 2.30pm Henstridge Village Hall. Members £1.50, visitors £2.50.

ILCHESTER

Christmas Craft Fair, Saturday 29th November Ilchester Town Hall, 10am - 2pm, in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice. The Sunflower Singers will be there.

MARTOCK

29th November at 7pm, Martock Church. The Guardians present Barnstaple Male Voice Choir, with intermissions by Maddie Delafeld, soprano and guitar. See www.martockonline.co.uk. Tickets £7 on door, £6 from 01935 822706.

Advertise Your December Event Here!

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 for 20 words - send details of What?

When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid. Extra words 30p each. Deadline for December issue, Friday14th November.

Bookings now being taken for our Christmas Party Menu and Christmas Day Menu both available on our website

Bookings call: 01749 812180 or email: trufflesbruton@gmail.com www.trufflesbrasserie.com

MU

SI

C

FOR THE

M

ON

TH

AN ADVERT IN THE NOVEMBER ...

PUB PAGES 1st SOMERSET PADDIES - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon ENSURES A FREE 1st NO FIXED ABODE - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas MENTION HERE! 12th TRAD JAZZ - Crown, Sherborne 15th STORM - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 19th FOLK EVENING - Crown, Sherborne 21st BARRY PAULL (Elvis) - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 22nd JIM RAMSEY - Butt of Sherry, Mere 22nd JOHN RAMOND - Rose & Crown, Bradford Abbas 26th OPEN MIC’ NIGHT - Crown, Sherborne 29th TRANSITION COVER ORIGINALS - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon

46 THE VISITOR November 2014

On Saturday, 29th November, from 10am until 3.00pm, the Red Lion at Babcary will be holding its annual Christmas Gift and Farmers Market in a marquee in the pub’s courtyard garden. Owner, Clare Garrard has carefully selected some local artisan producers and craftsmen to provide everything you need for the perfect Christmas, all under one roof.

Mulled wine and refreshments will be served in The Den.

Shepton Mallet Repxotics

Repxotics of Shepton Mallet is one of very few shops in the area to specialize in the sale and care of exotic reptiles and invertebrates. Owned and run by Demetri Benfield, the shop stocks reptiles such as Bearded Dragons, Corn Snakes, and the more unusual Monitor Lizards and Black & White Tegus all of which have been captive bred. Repxotics can supply all you require to keep an exotic reptile including heated tanks, lighting and ‘sets’, plus live and frozen food. Tortoises, spiders, stick insects, Spur Thighs and locally bred Baby Hermanns are also on sale.

Tropical fish are stocked - over 70 varieties. Open Tuesday to Sunday. Gift Vouchers and Loyalty schemes available.

Pylle Emporium Antiques and Gallery

Situated on the main Fosse Way (A37) a couple of miles south of Shepton Mallet, the Pylle Emporium Antiques and Gallery is well worth visiting whether you

Ridgeway Garage

Shepton Mallet town centre.

If you are looking for a reliable secondhand car then pop along to Ridgeway Garage, situated on the Ridgeway Estate to the south of the town near Mendip District Council, in Kingsland Road. A family run business established for over 40 years you can be sure of helpful and professional service.

All cars come with a new

MOT, a Service, Cam Belt replacement if required and a warranty. Part exchange is welcome, finance is available if required and credit cards are also taken. Should you be looking for a particular make/model of car they will be happy to try and source it for you. Visit www.ridgewaygarage.com or give them a call.

Stock changes regularly.

are looking for antique furniture, more modern interior design pieces, or for unique Christmas gift ideas.

There is an extensive range of antiques, collectables, and vintage items, displayed in 5 large showrooms. Quality furniture such as dressers, tables and chairs, chests of drawers, desks, and wardrobes are for sale. The Emporium also has books, porcelain, glassware, silver, and many vintage items. There is ample free parking, and Jon Thorner’s farm shop and café are next door.

Recently, the Pylle Emporium completely refurbished its art gallery. Curated by Mr B’s Art Company the space has been transformed, there are now over two hundred pictures displayed on the walls of the upstairs gallery. The art is eclectic: local and international artists sit side by side. From prints to watercolours; etchings to oils; there is something for every taste.

Mr B’s Art Company has also lodged itself on Catherine Hill in

ANTIQUES & ART PYLLE EMPORIUM

RIDGEWAY GARAGE Family run business - established over 40 Years

For quality used cars at affordable prices - PART EXCHANGE WELCOME -

CLEAN CARS BOUGHT FOR CASH - LICENSED CREDIT BROKER

Kingsland Road, SHEPTON MALLET • Tel: 01749 342938 www.ridgeway-garage.com

Somerset’s leading retailer of reptiles & amphibians

Tortoises • Snakes • Lizards Frogs • Spiders • Invertebrates OPEN ON SUNDAYS 10am – 4pm Tuesday to Saturday 9.30am – 5pm Closed Mondays Gift Vouchers & Loyalty Scheme

Repxotics, 17 Town Street SHEPTON MALLET BA4 5BE

Telephone 01749 938082

www.repxotics.co.uk

Whether you are looking for lovely furniture for your home or exciting CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS come pay us a visit

Based in Pylle, Somerset on the A37 • 5 Minutes South of Shepton Mallet

Web: www.pylleemporium.co.uk Email: antiques@pylleemporium.co.uk

Pylle Emporium, Stockwood Business Park SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 6TA Tel: 01749 838783

Open All Week • Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm • Sunday by Appointment

THE VISITOR November 2014 47

Shepton Mallet

Frome as a part of Barton House Antiques. There, Mr B has contemporary works by renowned artists such as Martin Yeoman, Grayson Perry, John Bratby and Andre Bicat. Local

talent is also on show with works

by Barbette Quinn and Sue Conrad. Mr B’s Art Company in Frome opens on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and by appointment.

Twice as Nice in Town Street, Shepton Mallet where you will find pre-owned furniture and goods at reduced prices.

Twice as Nice

If you’re looking to furnish your house at a reduced price, then why not pay a visit to Twice as Nice, your local furniture, electrical items and paint re-use scheme? Come to our store at 10 Town Street, Shepton Mallet, and browse our selection of low-cost sofas, beds, white goods, paint and more. We can also deliver any items – charges start at £5.

We also accept donations of your unwanted items, helping you do your bit for the environment.

Last year, we stopped around 50 tonnes of items going to landfill and gave them a new lease of life.

And, if you’re keen on gardening, great news – we’ve just opened a brand-new garden section. Come and pay us a visit today!

Red Berry Progression for Emma Haskins

As Red Berry has grown over the years, so have the skills and development of the staff within the company. A shining example of this is Emma Haskins, who over the last 4 years has been one such employee to develop her role whilst working at Red Berry.

Starting as an Administrator and moving on to PA to the MD, Emma’s development has continued and she has shown great skill and aptitude in the world of Social Media and Marketing. Therefore, as the

REGISTERED OSTEOPATH

TREVENEN PASCOE

BSc. (Hons.) Ost. Med. ND. BUPA & PPP Recognised Cranial & Structural Osteopathy

48 THE VISITOR November 2014

42 High Street SHEPTON MALLET Somerset BA4 5AS  01749 342594

Shepton

Garden Machinery

SALE

END OF SEASON

Quality Used Garden Machinery (fully serviced by ourselves)

Lawnflite LF125 38" Lawn Tractor, side discharge, £950.00 with mulching and collector accessories John Deere L107 42" Lawn Tractor, side discharge, hydrostatic drive

Snapper E21500 21" Self Drive Rotary Mower,variable speed with collector

Mountfield 53PD 21" Self Drive Rotary Mowerwith grassbox

Visit the showroom at Moggs of Wells in Shepton Mallet where you will find a large selection of garden machinery, guaranteed to make your workload easier.

company has grown, Emma has just recently been promoted to Red Berry’s ‘Social Media Manager’.

MD Helen Lacey has been quoted as saying ‘Emma’s natural ability to understand the importance of social media and all the different affects to help us market ourselves has been invaluable, it’s a natural progression for Emma’s skills’.

As well as Emma’s promotion Helen has appointed a number of other key members of her team as the company grows.

Sutton’s Stairlifts

Mark Sutton, who decided to set up a stairlift business after his father was stung by a pushy and aggressive stairlift installation company, is delighted to have been successfully trading for over 12 months now.

Sutton’s Stairlifts is a family run business which Mr Sutton set up in September 2013 with the help of his sons.

Dedicated to providing a fair

and ethical service, the business offers a range of new or refurbished stairlifts for purchase or rental in the Somerset and Mendip area.

A display unit in the Haskins Retail Centre in Shepton Mallet is available for demonstrations by appointment.

D.R. Carpets

D.R. Carpets is situated on the A371 between Shepton Mallet and Castle Cary at Evercreech Junction where there is free parking outside the door.

D.R. Carpets offer a wide choice of carpeting including a stylish range of striped carpets which are currently on trend. Rugs and runners can be made to order using remnants from your own carpet or remnants from the shop – ideal for the hall or in front of the fire.

Natural flooring, vinyls, laminates and engineered wooden flooring are all available. Call in today.

Stock Rolls & Remnants stocked ● Carpets and Flooring ● Vinyls and Laminates ● Solid & Engineered Wood ● Natural Flooring including ...

Sisal and Seagrass ● Mats / Runners Made-to-Measure ● Domestic & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES Professional Fitting Available

Showrooms Evercreech Junction Shepton Mallet, BA4 6NA

On the main A371 between Shepton Mallet & Castle Cary

Tel: 01749 831578

£850.00 £199.00 £175.00

Hayter Harrier 41 16" Roller Drive Rotary Mower with grassbox (choice of 2) £150.00

Qualcast Classic 43s 17" Cylinder Mower with grassbox & scarifier accessory £395.00 Atco Admiral 16S 16" Roller Drive Rotary Mower with grassbox

£125.00

MTD T/245 24” Cultivator

£195.00

Atco Windsor 14s Mains Electric Cylinder Mower with grassbox

Tanaka THT210 20" Petrol Hedgetrimmer, double sided blades Lawnflite S2690K Brushcutter, loop handle, Kawasaki engine

EH22 Hedgetrimmer Attachment for S2690K Brush Cutter

£199.00 £120.00 £175.00 £115.00

Visit our showrooms and see our full range of new and used garden machinery S AL E S  S E RVI CE  RE PAI RS Unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 4NB Tel: 01749 343881 • www.moggsofwells.co.uk SALES – SERVICE – REPAIR THE VISITOR November 2014 49

WARM HOMES

LPG

IF YOU LIVE in a rural community chances are you have to rely on electricity or oil for your heating and hot water as you have no access to mains gas.

However, you could have LPG:

House & Home

the next best thing. Stored in a tank – above or below ground – and piped directly into your home, LPG provides a clean, reliable and versatile heat source for central heating, hot water, cooking and gas fires. Switch to Calor LPG and whichever fuel

you currently use, they can guarantee a hassle-free conversion – so you can start enjoying its many benefits as soon as possible. Take a look to see why Calor LPG could be the right fuel choice for your home, your family and the environment.

Need a new conservatory?

Replacement windows or doors? contact

TURNER WINDOWS SOMERTON LTD – of –

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

FULL RANGE OF Replacement Windows Replacement Doors Conservatories Fascia / Soffitt / Guttering Secondary Glazing

SERVICES ...

■ Window Repairs ■ Handles / Hinges ■ Misted Up Units ■ Garage Doors ■ Blinds / Fly Screens

QUALITY PRODUCTS all products adhere to as endorsed by celebrity world snooker champion Steve Davis PERSONAL SERVICE no faceless sales team: Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to the showrooms

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

PVC-U Aluminium

FENSA Registered Company sales@turnerwindows.co.uk www.turnerwindows.co.uk

“This installation is the best we have ever had. You did what it said on the tin.

Your men started on time, your team of two (Jason and Alec) were courteous ... nothing was too much trouble ... took great care and left the house clean and tidy.

We employ an assortment of tradesmen and there are only two or three that we would endorse. Welcome to the club.” – David & Pam Watts (February 2013) Just one of many testimonials from satisfied customers ★ See online for further personal recommendations

Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd

Call 01458 272555

Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB Today for a FREE no obligation quote

HIDER HEATING

Specialists in Installation & Service

ALL TYPES OF PLUMBING Central Heating Systems, Boiler Replacement Landlord Safety Checks and Servicing Gas and Oil Established Over 40 Years Rely on us for all Plumbing & Heating Needs Specialist in Bathroom Designs including all Tiling & Electrics

Reg. No. 700

www.hiderheating.co.uk Tel: 01935 426209 • Mobile: 07836 773152 11 Hillgrove Avenue, Yeovil, Somerset

50 THE VISITOR November 2014

Instant and controllable Extremely versatile, Calor gas provides instant heating and hot water as well as a real and controllable flame for cooking and fires.

Hide the tank Whether it's an underground tank hidden from view, an above ground tank or a 4 cylinder pack, Calor have a storage solution to suit you.

Safe and secure Fuel theft from a gas tank is virtually impossible whether stored above or below ground.

Automatic delivery Calor’s sophisticated ThinkTank technology measures your gas levels and when you need a top up, it automatically schedules a delivery, so you have one less thing to worry about.

Greener and cleaner Calor gas offers off-mains rural customers the lowest carbon emissions of all fossil fuels with 11.7% less CO2 per kWh than heating oil.

To make the switch to Calor and to get an installation quote call them on 0808 252 0990.

ACF WINDOWS

ANDY FELTHAM

UPVC RePlaCement windows, dooRs, ConseRVatoRies, wooden FRamed windows, FasCia BoaRds, Cladding, gUtteRing, alUminiUm windows & dooRs etC.

The Old Well House Shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GILLINGHAM, Dorset SP8 5HX Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / metal tanks • temporary tanks leaking tanks • tank Cleaning / moving / disposal above or Below ground tanks

Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 office@halletsfarm.fsnet.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk The Visitor can now be read online … www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

House & Home Long Tufts

Occasionally you may find a stray tuft extending above the pile surface. Provided your carpet is a cut pile, carefully cut the tuft with sharp scissors to the level of the surrounding pile.

Natural Fibres

As a natural fibre, pure new wool is washed and scoured before being spun into carpet yarn.

Throughout the manufacturing process it is also inspected and natural minor imperfections removed.

With the darker evenings, give your home a cosy glow with a table lamp.

These attractive lamps can be found at Living Pretty in Curry Rivel.

Care of New Carpets

When it comes to buying a new carpet always choose a reputable supplier and have the carpet fitted by a professional fitter. A good quality underlay is recommended when fitting a new carpet.

Think before you buy! A plain light coloured carpet may be what you would like, but if its to be placed next to an external door its better to choose something darker, perhaps with a stripe or pattern. Once your carpet has been fitted, the key to good carpet maintenance is to avoid particles of loose dirt and dust from working their way into the carpet pile where they will act abrasively on the fibres and discolour the carpet. A large strong doormat will reduce dirt from outside being spread around the house.

Vacuuming

Man-made fibre carpets and wool twist pile carpets should be vacuumed as soon as they are

laid and it is recommended that you vacuum your carpet regularly, at least two or three times a week.

Loop pile carpets should be vacuumed with a cylinder cleaner using the suction head only. Avoid using beater heads and brushes - they will catch and lift the fibres, giving your carpet a bobbled or felted appearance.

Cut pile carpets should be vacuumed with an upright cleaner with a beater bar and brush.

Shedding

All carpets using a spun yarn will shed excess fibre when first installed. The duration of the shedding of these fibres will vary dependent upon the frequency of vacuuming and the type of machine used. This is to be expected and does not mean there is a defect. The short fibres given off represent a very small fraction of the pile.

Flattening

All cut pile fabrics of any fibre type will flatten to some extent in taffic lanes and areas of concentrated wear.

This can make the carpet appear a different shade but it is infact caused by the pile reflecting light differently. regular vacuuming will help to prevent flattening. This flattening and shading is a normal reaction to localised traffic and is not detrimental to the performance of the carpet.

Perfect Viewing this Christmas with

TX- 42AS650 5 Year Warranty

 we deliver locally

 we install

 we dispose of your old tV set



£599

 we offer friendly and experienced advice  DO CALL IN 

SALES – SERVICE – REPAIR

Your Local Television and Audio Specialist Greenhill, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 4EW  01935 813451

“Where the customer comes first”

THE VISITOR November 2014 51

Pile Reversal

Like shading, pile reversal occurs when the pile or nap of the carpet changes d irection and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent.

House & Home

This can happen to all cut pile carpets be they Axminster, Wilton, Tufted or even Oriental and hand-made rugs.

Like shading it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects.

WET ROOM SPECIALISTS

This comfortable three seater recliner sofa in brown buffalo hide fabric is just one of many suites and sofas available from the extensive new showrooms of Fit & Furnish, Yeovil.

FULL PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE

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

Wet rooms can be tailored to suit your personal requirements VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS

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

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

Spoilt for choice!

For sound and practical advice on wet rooms and walk-in showers contact Simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms of Sherborne.

Visit our new showroom to see our extensive range of flooring

■ Carpets ■ Vinyls ■ Naturals ■ Woods Wincanton ■ Laminates ■ Tiles ■ Blinds ■ Roll Stock ... vinyls & carpets now available

“Just nice people to do business with”

Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178

52 THE VISITOR November 2014

Fire Station

Lidl

Morrisons

Southgate Road nc .T ow n

SJH CARPETS, Southgate Road, Wincanton  01963 824418

Wi

Stair Runners by Roger Oates

★ Free Estimate ★ Free Measuring ★ Professional Fitting by our own Expert Fitters ★ Friendly and Personal Service ★ Competitive Prices

Tythings Centre

NEW SJH

OLD SJH

A corner of the showroom of SJH Carpets in Wincanton.

House & Home

Fading

Carpets with a high wool content can and do fade over time. This type of fading is caussed by exposure to ultra violet light which lightens or bleaches the wool in the same way that human hair is lightened by exposure to the sun. The degree and speed of fade can vary depending on the colour chosen and the local conditions to which the carpet is subjected. To reduce fading of carpets in rooms with strong exposure to the sun (e.g. south facing rooms with patio doors) judicious use of sun blinds or curtains is recommended.

Indentations

The feet of furniture will create indentations on any carpet. To help reduce marking, regularly move the position of furniture

and other heavy objects where possible. To help lift the pile back up, use a coin to ‘gently’ tease the pile upright.

Now that the clocks have gone back don’t be afraid of the dark - Hillarys choose Moody Hues for a cosy ambiance

Colour is the most influential characteristic when it comes to trends and it often leads decorating schemes. Interior trends are pointing towards a contemporary take on the traditional autumn and winter palette.

Inky dark industrial tones, monochrome, deep berry shades and moody greys come to the fore for a look that’s captivating, sophisticated and seductive. The feel is calm, soft and enveloping.

KITCHENS AND HOUSE RENOVATIONS We project manage from start to finish!

w r no tmas ! e d Or Chris for

Stylish kitchens to suit you

■ Contemporary or traditional ■ Wide choice of finishes including – high gloss, wood and painted ■ Free planning ■ Free design service

New Kitchen for Christmas?

ORDER BEFORE 21st NOVEMBER for delivery on most ranges  Malcolm Helyar: Proprietor.

“See our door library with 100s of colours and finishes”

New Kitchen? House Renovation?

We project manage from start to finish!

■ Plan and design ■ Undertake the construction work ■ Install and fit units / appliances ■ Electrics ■ Plumbing ■ Plastering ■ Complete on time – to a high standard

‘In-Frame’ wood kitchen in Duck Egg Blue, with Belfast sink, just one of the kitchens on display at Sherborne Kitchens, Sherborne.

SHERBORNE KITCHENS & HOUSE RENOVATIONS

The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN Call into our showrooms today

Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel

Tel: 01935 817111

Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com www.sherbornekitchens.com THE VISITOR November 2014 53

House & Home

Dark hues can be comforting and are very much in vogue this season, often shot through with an accent pop of colour or bright neon shade to add drama or mixed within a tonal palette.

You don’t have to be afraid of going dark with your decor and interior design. A window treatment is a great low commitment way to work a little black magic into your room for a high impact look that helps create a dramatic statement.

Now the clocks have gone back why not embrace the lack of

Within SJH Carpets

Professionally Made To Measure Curtains, Blinds etc.

Exciting New Fabric Ranges now available.

Clarke & Clarke - Porter & Stone - Yorke Interiors ILIV - Art of the Loom - Prestigious Textiles Fibre Naturelle - and more!

Curtain Poles and Tracks, Haberdashery Ribbons, Threads, Cushions, Remnants, Linings etc.

Melody 07883 089 333

OPEN: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9.00am - 4.00pm (Thursday - Closed) Friday 9.00am - 3.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 12.30pm

Win a Hamper from Fortnum & Mason with City Decorating Supplies

DON’T MISS the in-store promotion at City Decorating Supplies in Wells during November and December. Every time a customer spends £50 in store they will be entered in to a free draw where they can win one of two Fortnum & Mason Christmas Hampers. Plus there are runner up prizes. And for the kiddies there’s a chance to win one of two BMW i8 remote controlled cars.

For a wonderful choice of curtain fabrics, a visit to MMS Soft Furnishings in Wincanton is a must.

The Tythings Commercial Centre Southgate Road, WINCANTON

daylight, pull down your blind, draw your curtains and turn your home into an enveloping candle lit, cosy retreat.

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

Feeling enveloped in a room can be wonderfully relaxing and cocooning. Layers of tone and texture make shades of grey surprisingly easy to live with, even at its most intense. Pictured: Reber Dark Grey Roller Blind from Hillarys, £49 (61cm w x 76cm d) including measuring and fitting.

Honeycomb blinds - like Hillarys ThermaShadeTM collection - can reduce heat loss through single glazed windows by as much as 51%. If your windows are particularly draughty or you just want to make a statement, team with co-ordinating curtains for extra insulation. Pictured: Indira Redcurrant curtains from £219 (127cm w x 137cm d) and Chilli Honeycomb blinds from £104 (60cm w x 70cm d) including measuring and fitting. Call 0800 916 6516 or visit hillarys.co.uk 54 THE VISITOR November 2014

Say you saw it in The Visitor

House & Home

House & Home is a regular feature in The Visitor Shouldn’t you be advertising here? Tel: 01963 351256

Pictured right: attractive fabrics from the Aspirations Collection by Scutt & Coles, available from Needful Things, Castle Cary.

Continuing the Progress of the New Build at Ditcheat

by Country Build SW Ltd

interiors with style!

Visit our soft furnishings and interiors showrooms

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

... be inspired at ...

Month 4 – Roof Trusses are now being cut in. Part of the roof is traditional and part is an unusual Catslide roof of which both will receive a zinc covering.

From Conception to Completion With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —

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

Unit 11, Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JX

Tel: 01747 826714 / 826721 www.townandcountryaerials.co.uk

Ask about our amazing Sky package deals!

All works completed by our experienced & reliable team

Services Include but not limited to: Project Management New Build Planning Loft Conversions Carpentry Roofing Ground Works Refurbishment Renovation Commercial Property Maintenance Joinery

All aspects of Building & Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken

Contact us for a free estimate

(01935) 823346

www.countrybuild.co.uk info@countrybuild.co.uk

Sky+HD WiFi with 7 day Catch Up

CATCH UP TV SERVICES REQUIRE A BROADBAND CONNECTION

★ FREE Box ★ FREE Dish ★ FREE Installation (free installation is subject to survey) TV Packages from £ 21.50 per month • £ 10 payable at time of booking refundable by voucher – please ask for details

MULTI-SCREEN Domestic Set-Up Sky in more than one room

We are a local independent firm with our own expert installers.

WE CAN HELP WITH ... ✔ No Unsightly Cables ✔ Listed Buildings ✔ Conservation Areas ✔ We cover your area ...

Yeovil, Sherborne, Wincanton, Gillingham etc.

Your local Sky expert

THE VISITOR November 2014 55

GARDENING

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park

Falling Leaves

LEAF RAKING TIME is here again. Fallen leaves are magical for all of us from the smallest child to the oldest adult; shuffling through them is guaranteed to bring a smile to the sternest of faces! Nature is so kind producing wonderful colours to brighten the autumn, then when we're done with the display, she delivers bag loads of potential compost right to the door.

Potential is the key word as there is just a bit of work involved to achieve the goal of nice dark crumbly compost that will enrich the soil and produce fantastic

crops next year (if you are an ace composter) or the year after (if you're not quite so hot!)

You can always buy beautiful ready-made garden compost derived from farmyard manure (FYM) or from recycled green waste which will be the same stuff as we can get from our own gardens. The secret of all this is the process by which organic matter changes from fresh to compost. Tough leaves need to be chopped, broken down and mixed with some more sappy stuff, the easy way for leaves on the lawn is to get the mower out! That mix of chopped leaves and grass

HEDGECUTTERS LR262

Long Reach Hedgecutter rrp £269 ...

£220 ... our price

 26cc engine

LRH270K

Long Reach Hedgecutter rrp £419 ... our price

£379

 27cc engine  62cms double-sided blade  Powered by Kawasaki

LEE HOLMES Garden Machinery 15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, Somerton 01458 274261 • www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

Autumn winds leave lawns littered with leaves. The lawn mower will chop them up ready for the compost bin.

clippings is absolutely ideal for a quick starting compost heap which will heat up within days.

A good compost heap is a great investment. Purpose built timber retaining walls, or a ready-made plastic bin or whatever you have space to fit in. A garden without a compost heap of some sort is sadly lacking! You can always hide it behind a large shrub or something so it shouldn’t be an eyesore! The savings are considerable – less bought in soilimprovers, fewer trips to the recycling centre or fewer waste bins for the council to collect.

What else in November?

Bonfire night is surely so much a part of our heritage that it cannot be ignored and a blazing bonfire reflects the glory of autumn as well as the chance to start the end of year clear-up. A

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TREE PLANTING

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

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

good bonfire needs dry material and recent heavy rains might make it difficult to get started, while piles of debris that have been there for a while could be harbouring wildlife that had thought it had found the ideal winter quarters. The classic is the hedgehog and in our area they do seem to be few and far between. Badgers are known to root out hedgehog nests as are foxes so any help we can give them in the way of providing safe havens, really matters.

Plant of the Month

Trees! Yes why not? At this time of year they are so much in evidence and we are just into the best tree planting time of the year. Trees add structure to the landscape and garden. There are all types, shapes and sizes. From flowering cherries and crab apples to evergreen yews, there are trees to suit every taste and

Suppliers of quality lawn turf Full ground preparation and laying service available

Telephone Somerton 01458 272091 Mobile 07850 310998

All types of Fencing

• Gates • Trellis • Fence Panels • Tool Sheds • Summer Houses • Garages • Workhouses • Greenhouses • Field Shelters Alan Dodge BSc 56 THE VISITOR November 2014

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

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

TELEPHONE 01747 840752

position imaginable. Trees offer different leaf size, shape and colour and many have attractive flowers, fruits and seeds. There are those that flower magnificently in spring to those whose leaves offer brilliant autumn colour just before leaf fall.

Trees can be selected for all soil types including very wet and dry land. They can tolerate acidic, chalky, sandy and clay soils. They even make up soils in new gardens or landscapes.

Some trees make excellent hedges and screens whilst others make ideal specimens set in the middle of a lawn. The choice is yours, but by planting trees you can reduce or improve your carbon footprint and generally enhance the environment.

All trees require some support and protection such as stakes, tree ties and tree guards.

Fertiliser can be added to the planting hole and mulch can be added after planting to preserve moisture and keep down weeds.

Trees are best planted in the autumn, especially bare rooted varieties. Container grown trees can be planted at any time of the year providing the soil / ground is not frozen or water logged.

There is a tree for every location and a good top ten would be: 1. Himalyan Birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) 2. Silver Birch (Betula pendula) 3. Snowy Mespilus (Amerlanchier lamarckii) 4. Christmas berry ‘Red Robin’ (Photinia fraserii ‘Red Robin’) 5.Freeman’s Maple (Acer

GARDENING

freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’) 6. English oak (Quercus robur) 7. Pin oak (Quercus palustris) 8. Crab apple (Malus ‘Evereste’) 9. Crab apple (Malus ‘Rudolph’) 10. Vilmorin’s mountain ash (Sorbus vilmorinii)

 There has been a lot of publicity over the past years about fatal diseases affecting our native trees, especially Oaks and the Ash, so a good alternative for a hardy English native is the Lime (Tilia cordata) surely one of our most attractive trees?

Trees can transform an area by introducing welcome shade, protective shelter and wildlife and are an investment for future generations. Research in HTA’s Greening the UK campaign has shown that just a 10% increase in tree coverage in urban areas will counter the predicted 4°c temperature over the next 100 years caused by climate change and the urban heat island effect.

As part of the ‘Plan it, Plant it this Autumn’ campaign, the Horticultural Trades Association is also encouraging gardeners to

celebrate the 39th annual National Tree Week, which is run

by The Tree Council from 29 November –7 December 2014 .

Jobs for the Month

Harvest is finished for another year, so time in the garden is spent tidying before the winter and planting while the soil is still warm.

Winter colour in pots is not hard; pansies and violas are so reliable, under-planted with spring flowering bulbs and coupled with hardy cyclamen will give pleasure for ages. Severe frosts will spoil flowers but the plants will survive.

Winter flowering heathers are also good to use and will last many years.

If pots contain tender plants then they should be moved to a

sheltered spot, raised on pot feet or flat stones to allow the pot to drain, and possibly wrapped with bubble wrap or fleece to protect the roots from freezing.

In the veg garden there are always jobs to be done. Planting garlic, over-wintering onions and shallots (gets an advantage with an earlier crop next year) sowing broad beans, the variety Aquadulce is the one to choose, and winter lettuce under the protection of cloche or greenhouse. There are several crops that might be still in the ground; at home we have parsnips, celeriac, carrots, leeks, parsley, Jerusalem artichokes, winter cabbage, curly kale, purple sprouting, black kale. Being reasonable it is unlikely that any of us will be anywhere near selfsufficient in fruit and veg over winter especially when like us you have bank voles eating the shoulders off your carrots. In a case like that all you can do is eat them before winter sets in, the

for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, sutton, ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221

THE DORSET & SOMERSET FENCING & GATE COMPANY All types of fencing supplied and erected No VAT • FREE Survey & Quotation Pressure Treated Material 10 Year Guarantee Fencing the counties for 30 years

Tel: 01935 330095

THE VISITOR November 2014 57

carrots that is, not the voles.

Perennial borders can look a bit ragged, and overgrown clumps can be lifted, split and replanted. This is very important especially for those varieties where the clump has grown outwards leaving a dead centre. The result is a much improved – rejuvenated plant next year. Lift any really tender items,

GARDENING

and cover lightly tender Lobelia and Penstemons with a dry mulch.

[This could be a layer of straw, leaf mould, peat or bark].

Dahlias should be lifted, once

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD R. W. PRINCE LTD

Suppliers of Quality Recycled Aggregates Top Soil – Crushed Concrete – Road Planings All Types of Limestone Aggregates Sand and Gravel – Decorative Aggregates Asphalt Plant / Asphalt Products – Hot Box Hire Grab Lorries – Tipper Hire – Muckaway

New Asphalt Plant Installed

20mm Base • 10mm Top Coats • 6mm Top Coats Lime Stone or Hard

Small Loads Collected or Delivered 7am – 4pm Daily • Monday – Friday ✴ Road Sweeper Hire ✴

Please call to enquire if we can help you with anything

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD. Podimore, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8JG Tel: 01935 849250 • Fax: 01935 849099 Mobile: 07973 844145

their tops are blackened by frost, cut them back to 6” and knock off the soil. Leave them upside down, for about a week to dry out , then dust with sulphur powder and store set out in shallow boxes with the tubers just covered by moist peat, bark, vermiculite - in cold but frost-free conditions. This could be in a green house or garage, or an unheated spare room.

The keener gardeners will have already sown sweet peas in pots to get an early start. It’s the only way if you want sweet peas to pick in early summer. Overwinter the

plants in a cold frame – and check regularly for mice and slug damage.

Bulbs can still be planted, especially tulips, which can suffer if planted too early. There should still be a good choice of different types in most garden centres.

Smaller bulbs added to winter hanging baskets help make them more interesting.

TREE SURGERY SPECIALISTS Crown Thinning and Reduction Dead and Dangerous Trees Removed New Trees Supplied and Planted Tree Stumps Removed Approved Contractor to Somerset County Council and Local Councils

BRUSHCUTTER

FOR SALE Nordsman & Norway Spruce

POTTED OR CUT

Red Dawn Bridgefoot West Lydford nr. Somerton TA11 7DP

Phone B. P. MONTGOMERY for a FREE Estimate Tel: 01963 240532 Mobile: 07970 397248 Email: brutontreecare@hotmail.com

Robust & practical

Christmas Trees

Tel: 01963 240532 Mob: 07970 397248

BC2600HHEU

26 inch commercial duty walk behind unit. ideal for clearing rough ground. rrp £3,499 OUR PRICE £3,050

LAWN & LITTER VACUUM

£100 SAVE

KV600SP

£400 SAVE OVER

ideal for residential / smaller commercial properties.

Complete with hose kit. rrp £1,300 OUR PRICE £1,200

FORCE BLOWER

F601S

ideal for smaller gardens, car parks, pathways etc. lightweight at only 76lbs. rrp £649 SAVE OUR PRICE £599

£50

 01747 851021

58 THE VISITOR November 2014

Garden Machinery

www.benjohnsonmowers.com

17d Wincombe Business Park, SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ

the end bit...

PAPERCHASE

I WAS SADDENED to learn of the recent death of Alan Chalcraft. In April 1978 he and his wife Ingrid published their first issue of the Blackmore Vale Magazine, four pages of local news and advertisements from Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton and the surrounding villages, produced from a cubby-hole under the stairs of their home in Stalbridge. Although the magazine and its circulation area have grown enormously since then and the ownership and editorship have changed more than once, the BVM has continued to embody the Chalcraft’s interests, notably local environmental, arts and community issues. The magazine remains his lasting legacy.

I scanned the first issue of the Western Gazette’s Your Weekend supplement with interest.

Launched in the 11th September issue, the paper’s front page was blazoned with ‘Don’t miss your FREE 32-page leisure pull-out’.

Much less conspicuous was the news that the price of the paper had just increased from 95p to ‘Only £1.00’, the second increase in 12 months. Readers whose memories stretch back to the beginning of 2011 will recall that in those days the paper cost 65p, so the cumulative increase since then – 35p on 65p – is a staggering 53.8% in less than four years.

And does the ‘free’ pull-out justify the extra 5p? I guess it depends on whether or not you need an ‘essential guide to going

out and staying in’. Gazette editor Emma Slee has described it as ‘the best leisure offering the Western Gazette has ever produced’, but I can manage my life very well without it. Much of the content – events listings, film reviews, puzzles, holiday adverts, Brett Sutton’s recipe and suchlike – is merely a rearrangement of what has long appeared in the paper anyway, and the new features include, predictably, a page or two each on home and garden, fashion, health and beauty and more cookery. Add a page of book reviews and an interview or two and that’s it!

Two new features are described as ‘a brand new advertising opportunity for businesses that want to attract diners’. On three pages a column is set aside for restaurants, and on a further three pages a column is for takeways. The cost of a mention is from ‘just £10 plus VAT, and the columns show examples of how the mention could appear.

Intriguing, then, that by the 16th October issue, the sixth issue of the supplement, the six columns are still full of the examples and there’s no sign yet of an eager advertiser. The ‘brand new’ opportunity is beginning to look a little jaded.

One of the travel ads in the 16th October issue caught my eye. A Rhine and Moselle River Cruise advertised on page 25 promised in big letters an ‘Early booking offer, save £50’. Sadly the small print at the bottom of the ad drowned my interest by stating ‘Applies to booking made by 30th September’. But then, on page 31, I came across the same advert with the same promise, but this time the small print stated ‘Applies to booking made by 31st October’. All very odd.

The Gazette must be suffering a shortage of paid ads, for why else would it devote half of page 67 in the 11th September issue to a ‘5 things to know before installing solar panels’ feature.

It was the fourth ‘thing to know’

that raised my doubts – ‘How much do solar panels cost and what grants or ways of making money are available?’ – because although a lot of figures were quoted there was precious little on feed-in tariffs. Then came this sentence: ‘The government’s Renewable Heat Incentive is expected to come into force during 2011’ and ‘the details are not yet available’. Nine months into 2014 and nobody bothered to read and update the copy before going to print. And looking back through my files I discovered that the Gazette used this filler several times in 2012 and 2013 without updating it, so it seems that the paper is still wedded to its old slipshod ways.

Yet more grief from the 11th September issue – a report on

page 9 about a planning application to build a housing estate on Chantry Fields at Gillingham informed readers that ‘Residents have until Tuesday to register their comments on the application, either online or by writing to South Somerset District Council’. Which would be a total waste of time since Gillingham is in Dorset and the local planning authority is North Dorset District Council. I would have expected the local reporter to know that.

Finally, the caption beneath the photo (below) from the Gazette’s 25th September issue prompts the thought that wherever Will Vaughan has disappeared to, he has left his jeans and broom behind.

Chronicler.

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 October

Sudoku

THE VISITOR November 2014 59

Classified Ads



Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential.

For a Box Number please add £2.

Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card. ✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

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

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴

Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

NAME ........................................................................................................................................................................

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

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

Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5

Passport Photographs

Wanted

Storage

ClassiCal lPs, also rock and pop, also singles and ePs. whole collections. Ring: 07807 010408.

PassPoRts - passports - passports - also studio sittings and weddings. any time to suit you. easy parking. tel: graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

stoRage for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. tel: sparkford storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

BRUton stoRage – 40ft container for storage £140 pcm, with lights and electric plus utilities. Call devi 07973 342047.

Personal

PolisH ladY, 56, non-smoker, curvy, likes travel, history, music, seeks gent for relationship. tel: 07832 903753. ladY ReCentlY RetiRed, active, oHaC, likes dogs, horses, music, seeks genuine gent. Friend/companion. tel: evenings 07935 359992.

aCtiVe 72 year old male dinosaur, or so my family tell me, loves cooking, 60’s music, hates RaP, oHaC, seeks fun loving female for happy times. Yeovil area. telephone 07791 707621.

someRset ladY seeks homely gent aged 70+ for company on days out and holidays. Reply Box no. 7.

waRm, CaRing Female, wltm 30s single male for friendship / relationship. likes most interests if shared. Box no. 8.

Meditation

wells Zen gRoUP: Zazen meditation followed by discussion on Buddhism, 7.30pm every monday, town Hall, wells.

Contact Paul Crummay: 01749 670193.

Say you saw it in The Visitor

60 THE VISITOR November 2014

daVe BUYs all tYPes oF tools, salvage, bygones and collectables. daves tools - tel: 01935 428975

PostCaRds, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. tel: Clive 01749 675456.

all sPoRts PRogRammes and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. large collections welcome. Cash paid. tel: Clive 01749 675456.

gUns wanted for cash. any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. tel: 07970 742471.

Dog Holidays

HolidaY FoR YoUR dog. let your dog stay with us when you are away. 24-hour attention and long walks. Fully licensed and insured.

Vet approved. References available. tel: 01963 240650.

T.V. Rental

t.V. Rental - long or short term, domestic & commercial, up to 50-inch plasma. H. R. Hodge. tel: 01460 240645.

Commercial Property

BRUton – to let 1200 square feet units available from £400 pcm, plus utilities and insurance. Call devi 07973 342047.

Mobile Bars / Catering

HaRRY’s moBile BaRs, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

Denture Repairs

Are you a denture wearer?

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

Denture repairs while you wait ...

Terry New Denture Clinic

01458 210039

Home visits a speciality

Communications

DENTURE REPAIRS

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

Registered Dental Technician

01749 812585

www.dunndental.co.uk

WESTLINE COMMUNICATIONS Business Telecom Specialist For all your telecom needs For free, friendly and professional advice call ...

John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

PHONE - a - FIRM

Electrical Contractors

Transport & Storage

The key to all your storage needs!

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

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

• Open 7 Days a Week • 20 Years Established Family Business

• Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service • Removals To and From Storage • Self Store with Easy Access • Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff

Plumbing & Heating

High Street, Sparkford, nr. Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692

Roofing

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

SLATING & TILING SPECIALISTS

Specialists in period and listed properties

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

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

Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 34 White Road, MERE, Nr. Warminster Wiltshire, BA12 6EX

Email: mead208@btinternet.com

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. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE EST IM AT ES

 01747 840064

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

Services

GOOD POTATOES

takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor gas Car & Van Rental Competitive Prices

Anchor Hill Service Station winCanton 01963 32609

Clock Repairs

CLOCK REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

« Picture framing « Restoration « Large selection of prints & paintings « Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

TV 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

December Deadline Friday 14th November ... BOOK EARLY

Maintenance and Repairs

U CAN’T I CAN PAUL CHEDZOY Property & Garden Maintenance

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

 01935 472669

... or

07884 345511

email: ucantican07@aol.com

Trading for over 7 years CUSTOMER REFERENCES AVAILABLE

• • • • •

• • • •

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

 THIS 3 cms x 1 column SPACE COSTS

£17.28 per month inclusive of VAT

SHOULDN’T YOU BE ADVERTISING HERE? Tel: 01963 351256

Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

THE VISITOR November 2014 61

PHONE - a - FIRM

Prize Crossword No. 337 Set by Frank Butler

Security

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG to arrive by Monday 17th November.

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.

1

2

3

9

4

5

7

8

10

11

12

13

Blinds

6

14

15

16

18

17

19

21

22

23

20

24

25

26

Domestic - Commercial - Venetian - Roman - Pleated

PERFECT FIT BLINDS

100s of Fabrics & Designs - Verticles from £49 (Max 6' x 6')

FREE QUOTE  FREE FITTING

 01935 584384 • www.outlookblinds.co.uk

Domestic Appliances

Pe

PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs

COVERiNG THE SOUTH LOCALLY

Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs

Ø Repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OAP discounts

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

Taylors Domestic

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

Ridge View, Penmore Road Sandford Orcas DT9 4SE

Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

01963 220366 Email: info@tda.uk.com

Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

62 THE VISITOR November 2014

Oven Cleaning Mister Oven

Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

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

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145

www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk

27

28

Across 1.

5.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

15.

18.

19.

21.

23.

25.

26.

27.

28.

Hi Paris! Sort out dirigible. [7] Puzzled and full of holes. [7] First find liar returning rather weak. [5] Turning, minister mis-spells loving. [9] Blood mess, cleaned up, came into flower. [9] Roman says “i see” with moving images. [5] Partly the best opening to provide a legal bar. [5] Underwater worker is coming back on alternative route. [9] Chair, duly adjusted works by fluid pressure. [9] Some wide corners in room style. [5] Look! Large tank is a green colour. [5] Half-picked honest upset with reading scheme. [9] i grab a lid sorting out biscuit. [9] First Brian, allow to borrow mix.

[5] Coming into being, a little sodium has aroma. [7] Now, is Eric partly in the dark?

[2,5]

7.

8.

14.

16.

17.

18.

20.

22.

23.

24.

Hiding-place above first den for Scots lord. [5] Excavate further to find parts of odd wing. [3,4] Scheme with board can be grown in the garden. [9] Two men in the late nineteenth century. [9] i, Tess, swallow beard-holder: it makes me scratch. [9] Seventh group member stirring lean hog. [7] Some sores i’d eradicate with a local. [7] Pathogenic agent takes six before half of rushes. [5] Entering plot, i showed the way.

[5] Wobble coming back, dropping first box to jostle. [5]

Solution to Crossword 336

Down

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

A very loud can is friendly. [7] Studied, chose, and took again as one’s own. [9] Perforations: Fifty in damaged hose. [5] Dai and Mary, confused in empty pail, shaped like the Sphinx’s neighbours. [9] Five hundred at party went wild.

[5] Act about organ brought to the door. [7]

THE WINNER OF OUR OCTOBER CROSSWORD was ...

Mr. P. Vincent of Yeovil, who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Acorn Music in Yeovil.

Chameleon

Over 20 displays on view in our showrooms ...

Bedrooms Kitchens Home Office

Designed to suit your requirements

■ FREE design service ensuring best use of space

■ Extensive choice

■ Excellent quality – sensible pricing ■ Traditional and modern styling

■ A family-run business

“Transform your home” with ...

bedrooms • kitchens • home office

5 & 6 Bancombe Court, Bancombe Road Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB

Tel: 01458 272699

steve@chameleonbk.co.uk • www.chameleonbk.co.uk AMPLE FREE PARKING

Call today to discuss your personal requirements

Sparkford, Yeovil Somerset, BA22 7LH 01963 440414 www.sparkford.com

Beat the winter chill in style ...

City Decorating Supplies

The

SAEY 92/94 • Cast for Life from £1,465 VISIT

GARDEN MACHINERY & STOVES

NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

QUALITY PAINT & WALLPAPER

Perfect Paints ...

to cover all surfaces Farrow & Ball Mylands of London Paints Little Greene Wide range: all finishes/colours Paint mixed while you wait 4 Sizes – Plus Tester Pots  Osmo Eco Paints & Stains  Extensive Wallpaper Library

Expert Advice

Proprietor Mike Tucker has many years experience in the trade and can offer expert advice on products for restoration and conservation work

17d Wincombe Business Park, SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ

 01747 851021

www.benjohnsonmowers.com

SALES - REFURBISHMENTS - INSTALLATION

NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

No. 1 The Old Chapel Union Street WELLS BA5 2PU 01749 677299

NEXT TO CAR PARK

Open: Mon – Fri 9am – 6pm Sat 9am – 4pm

Email Orders: citydecoratingsupplies@gmail.com Deliveries available throughout UK & Europe