The Visitor Magazine Issue 417 August 2018

Back to School!

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

Issue 417 August 2018

A Stourhead View by Sue Hardy.

One of the entries at

FREE copy Your

BRUTON ART SOCIETY'S EXHIBITION Opening on the 18th August.

See page 4 for details.

9 – 11 Princes Street, YEOVIL, BA20 1EN Tel: 01935 428791

www.ceresfoods.com

In Passing ...

F

ew pleasures are greater than strolling round a beautiful garden where someone else has done all the hard work! Gardening has flourished in Visitorland since Elizabethan times, and tucked away in the peaceful countryside are countless gardens to visit.

Some, like the formal gardens at Montacute House, the landscaped estates at Stourhead and Sherborne Castle and the gardens of the medieval Forde Abbey, are widely known, but something of the essence of the classic English garden can be found at smaller locations. I particularly like the gardens at East Lambrook Manor, Tintinhull House, Lytes Cary, Kilver Court at Shepton Mallet and Cole Manor Tearooms near Bruton. You probably have your own favourites.

Sadly my own cottage garden reveals that I’m not a keen gardener. I like it to look colourful and kempt and to produce fruits for winemaking and a few herbs for cooking, so I have no choice but to get my hands dirty from time to time. Flowering shrubs, roses, lavenders and perennials like pinks are the staples – they don’t need much attention – and a few bedding annuals to brighten up the tubs. But brown is now the predominant colour after weeks of scorching sunshine, and weeds seem to be the only plants to thrive in the heat.

I’m more of an armchair gardener. I enjoy sitting in the garden, ideally on a warm afternoon with a glass or two of wine and an absorbing book – even a gardening book!

One that I read by the fireside last winter and have just re-read in the garden is ‘Pasley’ by Visitorland resident Emma IslesBuck. I confess that the name Anthony du Gard Pasley meant nothing to me until I read this splendid book, but from it I learnt that he was a renowned landscape architect, tutor, magazine contributor and author of three gardening books who died in 2009, and that he also renovated, furnished and landscaped six of the houses in which he lived during his eighty years.

The book is not his biography. Instead, goddaughter Emma has collected

reminiscences from some of his many friends, clients, colleagues and ex-students and woven them into an intriguing picture of the man and his life’s work. He designed more than 300 gardens and won Gold at the Chelsea Flower Show several times, so it is inevitable that his gardens feature prominently in the book. So do the principles that lie behind his designs, matching the garden to the character of the owners and to the wider landscape. If he had met me, I wonder how he would have redesigned my little garden.

Emma describes him as ‘one of the most unusual and fascinating men I have had the privilege to know’, and her book provides the evidence. ‘Pasley’ (ISBN 9781-5272-1105-6) is a 156-page hardback available through all good bookshops, price £16.00.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines

September Issue published Thursday 23rd August Deadline Friday 10th August

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BP

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

Proprietor Helen Dunion Editor Max Dunion Advertising Julie Crowe

© The Visitor Ltd. 2018

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

CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 34 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 15 CROSSWORD - 34 GARDENING - 29

HOUSE & HOME - 22 LEISURE - 18

LOOKING GOOD - 20

MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 4 MOTORING - 17

MUSIC for the MONTH - 19 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.

NOTICE BOARD - 19

PAMPER YOUR PET - 16 PAPERCHASE - 32

PHONE-A-FIRM - 32 PUBS - 26

SUDOKU - 20

THEY SAY - 28

WINCANTON - 12

WINE & DINE - 31 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR August 2018 3

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Free round of golf offered to delegates at Wincanton Racecourse

Wincanton Racecourse’s golf course, set in the middle of the track, is offering a free round of golf for any delegate attending a conference or event, excluding racedays.

With its wonderful views over Somerset and Dorset, and its greens, fairways, tees and bunkers diligently cared for by a dedicated team of groundstaff, it is popular with both beginners and experienced players alike.

The 9-hole course, doubled up to 18 and par 70, has developed into an excellent test of golf for

all levels of ability, since opening in 1994. Bushes, bunkers and an extra nine tee off areas have been introduced, as well as a wellstocked pro shop, catering for all standards of golfers and a cafeteria situated in the picturesque historical barn within the racecourse boundaries.

The course is open all year round, so whether you want to fit in nine holes, or play a full round of 18, Wincanton Golf Course is perfect to fit into any lifestyle whatever the time of year.

General manager Huw Williams said: ‘It’s a bit of a hidden gem in the Somerset countryside but once golfers come along they’re smitten. The views are wonderful, and it’s a great place to play, whether you want to spend a few hours here, or have a quick round to get the shoulder blades moving!’

Golf lessons are available via PGA Golf Professional and membership is available for

players wishing to obtain a handicap and play in competitions.

Golf societies are welcome and catered for with accommodation available above the golf club house and there is also help to organise golf breaks/holidays.

Visit: www.wincanton .thejockeyclub.co.uk for more details.

Bruton Art Society Annual Exhibition

The 65th Annual Bruton Art Society Exhibition runs from Saturday 18th August to Saturday 25th August in the Memorial Hall, Kings Bruton School, Bruton BA10 OED, open daily including weekends 11.00am to 5pm. Car

parking in the school car-park and entrance to the exhibition is free, so its a great place to take the kids during the school holidays, particularly budding artists. Ask them to choose their favourite picture, write it down and pop it in the voting box! Founded in 1953, the Society attracts artists from all over Somerset and neighbouring parts of Wiltshire and Dorset, both amateur and professional. Last year this event attracted record numbers of visitors and sales and we hope to do even better this year. There are prizes totalling over £1000 awarded by judges, for abstract, landscape, portrait and drawing, among others. This is a must see event for your summer calendar!

Bramble Hill Caravan & Motorhome Storage Park Walton, Somerset, BA16 9RQ

• Very High Security • Reasonable Rates Per Year

01458 442548 For further enquiries Tel:

4 THE VISITOR August 2018

The 65th Annual Bruton Art Society Exhibition runs from Saturday 18th August to Saturday 25th August.

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Fairfield Opening Celebration: Castle Cary and Ansford celebrate the completion of its new community project!

Following years of dedication and hard work from a group of volunteers, the Fairfield Project is now complete! With a pump track, adventure trail, sensory garden, meadow gym, a network of hard pathways and more. This community resource is for old and young alike.

Fundraising for this project began over 20 years ago, however, it wasn’t until 2014 the land, known as Fairfield, became available to buy. Local volunteers formed the Fairfield Project team in 2015 and with the support of both Castle Cary and Ansford Councils got to work actualising the dreams of generations of young people in the local area.

The project has come to fruition with the help of many sponsors who include: - Sport England,

Tesco Bags of Help Scheme, Emily Estate, Brue Valley Rotary, Delaware Veterinary Services, Castle Cary Use Less Share More Group, South Somerset District Council, plus some anonymous donors. We are enormously grateful for all this support.

To celebrate the opening of the Fairfield, Castle Cary Town Council and Ansford Parish Council are holding a free community event on the Fairfield on Saturday 1st September 2018 between 3pm and 8pm.

There will be live music, food and drink for sale, equipment demonstrations, a bouncy castle, a dog show and more. Michael Eavis, of Glastonbury fame, will be our guest of honour and will officially open the Fairfield. Don’t forget to bring your picnic chairs and rug!

Everyone is welcome to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and try out their skills on the pump track, adventure trail and meadow gym!

Fete on Saturday, songs of praise in the festival marquee on Sunday morning and a fun dog show in the afternoon.

The festival was first held in 2002 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee and has been held every year increasing in popularity ever since.

This year’s festival starts with the well-regarded local Somerset band ‘Old Dogz New Trix’ on evening of Friday (24th) in the festival marquee with dancing, a licenced bar and excellent BBQ serving only local sourced produce. Based in Somerset, the guys have played all over the UK

and abroad. Both individually and together they have performed with many well-known bands including The Rolling Stones, The Searchers, The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Tremeloes, Marmalade and Vanity Fair.

From Saturday 10:30am – 4:30pm the Kingsdon Village Fete gets going with Punch and Judy shows, many local craft and produce stalls, tug of war, cream teas (Devon v Somerset), BBQ, licensed bar and much more.

Saturday evening (25th August) sees the annual reunion of the Kingsdon Festival Big Band.

The Kingsdon Festival and Fete – 24th – 26th August 2018

The Kingsdon Festival and Fete consists of three evenings of live music and dancing with a village

THE VISITOR August 2018 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches All band members are professional musicians with amazing CVs of international performances and recordings from supporting Shirley Bassey to Led Zepplin to well-known film scores and West End musicals. If you enjoy listening or dancing to well-known big band sounds, then this is a musical evening for you.

Licensed bar and BBQ of course.

Sunday morning (August 26th) a songs of praise will be held in the Festival Marquee. All hymns and songs have been requested by residents of Kingsdon and local villages for their personal significance or simply because they are firm favourites.

Sunday afternoon the Kingsdon Fun Dog Show attracts a collection of Crufts wannabes contending for the waggiest tail, handsomest boy, prettiest girl (or should that be bitch), most like their owner and other categories.

Bring yourself and your best canine friend to register on the day.

The Festival concludes on Sunday evening with the Jo Burt Experience. Originally created as a songwriting development tool, in the last 3 years the band have become an outstanding live act playing festivals and venues around the UK, Europe and North America. Jo's songwriting style is based on his background of rock, with a southern-style influence and a very English Beatle-esque twist.

Tickets for all three music events costs a mere £20 (that’s all three not each) and can be purchased in advance from the Kingsdon Village Community Shop or on the door (or Marquee flap if you prefer) on the night.

For more information and latest news please visit www.kingsdon.org/festival.

from M4/M32, J19 and has generous on-site car parking. It is also close to Bristol Parkway Rail Station from which the organizer has arranged a regular shuttle bus. The show features: Traders – selling sewing machines, fabrics, quilting accessories, craft accessories, threads, haberdashery, embroidery and quilt kits.

Galleries – displaying modern, contemporary and traditional quilts, embroidery, braiding, tapestry weaving, contemporary textiles, display of traditional costumes and embroideries from South West China.

Talks, workshops and demonstrations - lace making, fusing fabric, embroidery, eco-

dying, crochet, rag rugs and other quilting and needlework techniques. And a stop and play stand for children hosted by Quilters Guild Region 5.

Competitions – £5 entry for competition quilts, categories are bed and cot quilts, large, small and miniature wall hangings and art quilts. A free to enter competition for cushions made using any needlework technique.

For a full list of traders, galleries and exhibitors, demonstrations and workshops and competition entry forms, see the website.

Tickets are £12 on the door, £2 off advance purchase. Quote offer code QTM when ordering on www.westcountryquiltshow.co.uk or by phone on 0117 907 1000.

The West Country Quilt and Textile Show 2018

The 2018 West Country Quilt and Textile Show will be held for the fourth consecutive year at the University of the West of England Exhibition Centre, Filton Road, Bristol, BS34 8QZ on Thursday August 30th, Friday August 31st and Saturday September 1st , open 1000am to 1630pm daily.

This spacious venue is situated on the northwest side of Bristol 4 miles from M5, J16 and 1 mile The West Country Quilt and Textile Show is being held on Thursday August 30th, Friday August 31st and Saturday September 1st, open 10:00am to 16:30pm daily. Pictured: Bargain hunters at the 2017 show.

Care Home, Yeovil • 24hr personal care • Own ensuite basin & toilet • Large accessible gardens • Medication managed if required • Full social activities programme

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

8 THE VISITOR August 2018

THE VISITOR August 2018 9

Making everyday life easier Do I need a Stairlift?

If you have difficulty getting up and down stairs you are not alone. The decision to install a stairlift is sometimes a difficult one to take but, when compared with the alternative of moving or living on only one level of their home, many people have found a stairlift to be their preferred solution.

Why choose us? – Suttons Stairlifts aim to provide an ethical,

reliable and prompt service to their valued customers. Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring them to their friends and relations we have achieved a solid reputation for integrity and exceptional service. We have worked hard to establish an affordable, dependable and honest service to be proud of.

Suttons Stairlifts is now a wellestablished family-run company committed to providing expert

Installation – Repair – Services

advice with a no-pressure selling policy, guaranteed!

Peace of mind – In addition to being approved dealers for Handicare, Suttons Stairlifts are also approved members of the Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme. You are also choosing an ISO Quality Approved product that conforms to the ethical business practices required by the British Healthcare Trades Association.

Our Products and Services – We offer a range of new or refurbished Handicare stairlifts for either straight or curved stairs in the Somerset and Mendip area. We also offer a rental option for straight stairlifts.

We also provide fast and efficient maintenance and repairs on all supplied stairlifts, as well as an annual service and safety check to keep your stairlift running as smoothly as the day it was installed. We also offer servicing

Part exchan availabge le

home Visits

Step inside!

We have a wonderful choice of

rise & recline chairs & Beds New & Pre-owned Scooters ... to suit all budgets

acorn Stairlifts

 On-The-Premises Servicing  call in and see us at ...

Next to coSta coffee aND withiN eaSy reach of MaiN car Park

10 Falkland Square Crewkerne, TA18 7JS  01460 271172

www.regencycareandmobility.co.uk “if you can’t come to us we will come to you”

10 THE VISITOR August 2018

Get out this summer: Could an outdoor stairlift installed by Suttons Stairlifts help you?

and safety checks for stairlifts not installed by us, as well as repairs and removals at a very reasonable cost. Whilst stairlifts are very simple to use, they are mechanical devices and benefit from annual servicing and maintenance to ensure they continue to run efficiently.

All Handicare stairlifts have safety sensors on the power pack and footplate; these are designed to stop the lift if it meets any obstruction. There are also optional features such as a powered swivel seat and powered folding footplate; these can make using a stairlift even easier by allowing you to operate these functions at the touch of a button.

It is a popular misconception that stairlifts are fitted to the wall, they are usually fitted to the staircase itself. Most lifts will only take between 2-4 hours to install.

What happens next? – We will visit you to survey the staircase and conduct a user assessment leaving you the leaflets and prices so you can make the decision in your own time. We aim to fit your stairlift within a week of your order or, where possible, within 2 days subject to availability.

With our inclusive and comprehensive 12 or 24 month warranty and 365 day coverage you can be assured of a first-class and personal service from Suttons Stairlifts.

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

August at The Henhayes Centre

The Henhayes Centre in Crewkerne has lots to offer in the month of August, starting with our Chef’s Special Lunch on Friday 17th. There is Roast Turkey with Fresh fruit flan to follow.

To start there is fruit juice of your choice, and finish with tea/coffee and chocolate. Bar opens at 12 noon lunch is served at 12.30. for only £9.00 (members £8.00), booking is essential. 01460 74340.

On Saturday 18th August there is a steel band booked for a Caribbean evening, if you have something bright and colourful wear it. Supper will be Jamaican Chicken followed

by Banana in Caramel sauce.

Tickets are £18.00 with supper which must be booked, without supper just £10.00. 01460 74340.

Bar opens at 6pm, concert starts

Dorset: Landscapes and Seascapes of local scenes.

Until August 4th at Bridport Arts Centre, Dorset. Featuring paintings of Dorset by George Paul Sainsbury, Sean Curley, Caroline Liddington and Barbara Green. A Creative Coverage Exhibition. www.creativecoverage.co.uk.

Pictured: Hardys Monument

by Caroline Liddington.

at 7.45pm. On the last Saturday (25th August) there is a Breakfast/Brunch served from 10am till 11.30 there is no need to book. Egg, sausage, bacon, tomato/beans, toast, tea/coffee. (extras @50p each) only £4.50. For more info about any of these events please get in touch 01460 74340.

ILCHESTER SPORTS FIELD CHARITY CAR BOOT Charity No. 235578

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER DOG FRIENDLY with SELLERS FREE DRAW @ BA22 8NZ

Gates open 6.30am for sellers Cars / Vans from £5 - Transit type Vans £8 Trailers from £3 extra Gates Open 7.30am for buyers Buyers before 9.30am: £1 for car - Walker 50p Buyers after 9.30am: 50p for cars - Walker 25p

07967 280754 (Weekends only) www.facebook.com/ilchestercharitycarboot

Keep your independence at home with

South Somerset Careline gives that 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?

Careline provides help at the touch of a button, which can be worn as a pendant or on a wrist strap, and dials through to our team 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.

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.carelinesouthsomerset.co.uk Initial connection/setup fee £33.84* Hire and monitoring £3.96 per week *waived if on certain benefits

THE VISITOR August 2018 11

THE INCREASE IN car ownership, the development of edge-of-town supermarkets and trading estates and the growth of mail order and, in recent years, internet shopping have all contributed to the changing face of town centres since 1945. After the bypass was opened in 1977 most motorists have sped past Wincanton, seemingly knowing it solely for its racecourse, if they

Wincanton

know of it at all, and if they venture off the A303 they are confronted by the inevitable sprawl of superstores and industrial estates that greets visitors to most country towns.

Alongside the slip-road are a new pub and travel lodge, and new homes have been built on the hillside above the Lawrence Hill Business Park. These are signs that the town is thriving,

even in these economically challenging times, for the reality is that Wincanton is still a delightful friendly little town, full of historical and architectural interest and well served by a comprehensive range of shops and businesses, most of them independently owned. Traditional traders still have a presence on the High Street, including Andrew Barclay’s traditional family butchers shop which is noted for locally-sourced meat, poultry and game, the Wincanton Cobbler which not only undertakes shoe repairs but also stocks a wide range of leather

goods, sports bags, walking sticks and umbrellas, and the renowned Preview ladies fashion boutique which has a stunning selection of ready-made clothing and accessories. Two adjacent shops on the High Street – Papertrees and Wild Cardz – together cater for almost all stationery requirements, and on Church Street the long-established Camelot Photographic offers a range of specialist goods and services, and Reed and Russell florists can provide local and nationwide floral deliveries.

Between Church Street and the High Street the Market Place still

Some of the independent businesses on the High Street.

The Wincanton Cobbler next to the archway that leads to the Balsam Centre, Wincanton’s independent local charity delivering innovative, community based health and wellbeing services across a large rural area, with a focus on accessible mental health support. The Centre works with people at whatever point in their lives that they seek help. The Balsam Centre itself, a former Cottage Hospital is a vibrant community hub housing everything from African Drumming to outdoor bread baking and a Women’s Shed.

12 THE VISITOR August 2018

retains much of its period charm, especially the buildings occupied

by Bootmakers café and workshop, the Post Office with its tempting array of cards, chocolates and gifts, Chaffers estate agency and the Heather Alexandra beauty salon. These shops and many more too numerous to name make Wincanton an attractive place for the discerning shopper.

Across the road the flower tubs and window boxes outside the Victorian Town Hall add yet more colour to the scene. And there’s ample free car parking space at the Memorial Hall and at Carrington Way, both close to the High Street. The latter car park is conveniently sited opposite the town’s library and behind Wincanton’s town-centre supermarket which was built in the early 1970s, opened as a Gateway store and is now a Coop food store. On the grassy slope above the upper part of this car park the town council has erected some picnic tables and seats, making it a pleasant place to rest your legs and watch the world go by. For the centre of Wincanton is still full of colour from its trees, planters and hanging baskets despite early-July’s heatwave.

Another place to see an astonishing display of colour is the garden centre around 500 yards beyond the racecourse on the road to Bruton. For many

Wincanton

Looking towards Market Place and Church Street from the High Street.

years it was the long-established Charlton Nurseries, a good oldfashioned nursery with acres of greenhouses crammed with an amazing variety of plants, and outdoors a huge selection of trees, shrubs, herbaceous and bedding plants. Some years ago the business changed hands and was reopened as a garden centre, but with only limited success, and it was later taken over by Otter Nurseries, a company with other garden centres in the south-west.

When I visited recently it was looking smart with plenty of healthy, colourful stock on sale, a mecca for gardeners from many miles around. It’s easy to pass a sunny afternoon here simply browsing and enjoying the colours and scents or exploring the wide

range of garden furniture and homeware goods on display.

Tucked away behind Rickhayes at the bottom of West Hill is one of Wincanton’s priceless assets, the recreation ground alongside the River Cale. This large expanse of flat well-maintained grassland is ideal for ball games, be they informal kick-arounds or organised cricket matches. A footbridge crosses the river to a

children's play area and the main path follows the course of the river beyond the recreation ground all the way to Southgate Road, opposite the Lidl supermarket. At that end of the path are the skateboard ramps so popular with teenagers.

It’s just a short stroll from there to Lawrence Hill Business Park where two of Wincanton’s long-established businesses

33 High Street Wincanton

Telephone 01963 32356 www.papertrees.co.uk

HALF PRICE BOOKS ... ideal holiday reading

FETE? SHOW? Promote your Event or Business with our BANNERS, POSTERS, A-BOARD SERVICE

 Back-To-School Bargain Packs – Pens, Files, etc  Lamy Pen Stockists  Cold Drinks  Pocket Money Toys

THE VISITOR August 2018 13

Wincanton

relocated to extensive new showrooms several years ago. The Rochford Garden Machinery Superstore houses a huge display ranging from lawn tractors and ride-on mowers to hedge trimmers and tree pruners, together with a well-stocked parts department and servicing workshop, making it a mecca for garden owners seeking labour-saving devices. And the nearby Cullingford Carpets showroom features not only an extensive range of floor coverings but also beds, blinds and curtains.

Both seemed busy when I visited in early July.

When you’re ready for refreshment you’ll find that Wincanton is well-provided with cafés, restaurants and pubs to cater for almost all tastes and pockets. These include the thatched Uncle Tom’s Cabin at the top of the High Street which was opened as a cider house in 1861 and still retains much of its traditional atmosphere, the prominent Bear Inn on the High Street, a former coaching inn dating from 1720, the recently opened coffee shop on the corner

Market Place, Wincanton.

of the High Street and Carrington Way which was clearly popular with alfresco drinkers during the early July heatwave and Lovington Bakery and Café on the Market Place offering a tempting range of breads and snacks. Divine Wines on the High Street serves coffee in its courtyard garden and across the road there is another café in the arcade leading to the Co-op supermarket. And no doubt there are more for you to discover.

Despite a few vacant shops in the town centre – a problem facing most Visitorland towns these days – Wincanton is still an attractive old market town. It deserves to be better-known by the British as an interesting and pleasant place in which to enjoy a short holiday.

Roger Richards.

Various stalls, fire engine, icecream van, burger stall, Majorettes, Tug of war, penalty shoot out, Bouncy Castle, Pimms and Prosecco Bar and BBQ, and much much more. It will be fun for children and adults of all ages.

This is a community event, it is all about bringing people together to enjoy sunny summer Saturdays.

There is lots of parking or you can walk along Peters Path. Watch our Facebook page for more information.

Heather Alexandra Beauty & Bridal Makeup

A beautiful, serene and relaxing new beauty salon in Wincanton set in the heart of the historic Market Place.

Offering an extensive treatment menu; Facials, Eyebrow Shaping, HD Brows, Lash Lifting & Tinting, Manicures, Pedicures, Spray Tans and Waxing.

A professional Makeup Artist, Heather specialises in Bridal Makeup and also offers makeup lessons, prom and occasion makeup or just a makeup bag overhaul. Excited to share that over the coming few weeks, new therapists will be joining the salon offering.

Intimate Waxing, Massage, Reflexology, Hot Stone and Indian Head Massage. The salon is a stockist for Jane Iredale makeup, Eve Taylor results-driven skincare, OPI polish & Fake Bake self tanning products. The finest depilatory waxes are used to ensure reduced redness to all skin types including highly sensitive skin. The salon offers something for everyone and looks forward to welcoming you.

Wincanton Extravaganza Summer Fete

There will be a Fun in the Sun Fete at The Wincanton Sports Ground on August 11th, starting at 12 noon, there will be a Dog Show which will include: Best Puppy, Waggiest Tail, Best Irish brace, Dog that looks like owner.

Wild Cardz

A glimpse inside the Heather Alexandra Beauty & Bridal Makeup salon.

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

Cards & Balloons for Every Occasion

Now in ... Exam Cards, University and Graduation Cards New School Cards

LOYALTY REWARD CARD SCHEME

14 THE VISITOR August 2018

CrAfT PACkS  AvOn COSmETiCS Toys, Party Bags & Fillers – Gift Wrap – Gifts – Badges Party Items – Confetti – Helium & Latex Balloons - Wool UPS Collection & Delivery Point • www.wildcardzofwincanton.co.uk

Top Price Swings Towards an Opal Pendant

In Lawrences’ recent busy and successful auction of jewellery and watches, there were plenty of strong prices for the wide variety of lots on offer.

Two lots destined for a gentleman rather than the (more usual) ladies’ jewellery on offer included a pair of gold and carved cornelian cufflinks which sold handsomely above expectations at £3900; and an 18ct gold half hunting cased pocket watch on a chain by Robert Roskell which ticked its way to £1890.

Rings also sold well: an Art Deco emerald and diamond ring raced over expectations of £400500 to make £3290); a Tiffany & Co sapphire and diamond triple cluster ring took £5490 and a Colombian emerald and diamond ring made £6580.

A diamond necklace set with 134 graduated brilliant-cut

A Tiffany & Co sapphire and diamond triple cluster ring recently sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne.

diamonds made £4390, but it was brooches and pendants that led the day. A diamond solitaire pendant with a single 1.55 carat stone made £3660; a late Victorian sapphire and diamond brooch pendant took four times the top estimate at £3900 and a lustrous 4.81 carat Australian black opal and diamond pendant flickered alluringly to take £8540.

This 4.81 carat Australian black opal and diamond pendant was sold for £8540 recently at Lawrences Auctioneers, Crewkerne.

This Chesterfield is available at Antiques Bazaar who have over 95 traders on site, and is open 7 days a week.

Antiques Bazaar, Crewkerne

On-trend, useable, affordable furniture is not always easy to find. Chesterfields, linen presses, porters’ chairs, good dressers and chests of drawers are practical, useful and will suit anyone creating a graceful home interior.

Antiques Bazaar, Crewkerne are very fortunate to be home to a

number of creative and innovative traders specialising in affordable interiors. Not just painted furniture, but upholstery, storage, lighting and accessories.

With over 95 traders on site, and open 7 days a week for business, Antiques Bazaar must be one of your regular stop-offs.

John Hamblin

John Hamblin, Master Cabinet Makers and Antique Furniture Restorers, are a family-run business. Find them at Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil, BA21 5HR.

CABINET MAKERS • ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORERS We are specialists in the repair & restoration of antique and modern furniture Bespoke Furniture made to customers specific requirements • French Polishing Re-Leathering of Desktops, Bureaux, etc. • Dining Table Tops Refinished A family run business established for over 50 years

Unit 6, 15 Oxford road, Pen mill Trading Estate, Yeovil, BA21 5Hr Tel: 01935 471154 • jhamblin101@gmail.com “We care for your furniture”

THE VISITOR August 2018 15

Y ur Sparkford Animal Feed

Sparkford Animal Feed is based in a purpose built timber fronted warehouse, ideally located just off the A303 at Sparkford, next to Haynes Motor Museum. Easy access and assistance if required with loading those bulkier items.

Delivery is also available.

Supplying all of your livestock, poultry, equine and pet

requirements, including feed and your everyday accessories at competitive prices.

NAF, Natural Living, TopSpec, Allen & Page, Burnes, Dr John and Cotswold Raw are just a few of the brands stocked at Sparkford Animal Feeds along with Agricultural Feed and Bedding.

Brunel Pet Centre 5a Brunel Shopping Precinct — SOMERTON — Tel: 01458 274980 Email: info@brunel-pets.com Website: www.brunel-pets.com

Many Brands of Dog & Cat Food Stocked Dog & Cat Treats, Toys & Beds Small Animal Foods, Treats Hay and Straw Wide Selection of Wild Bird Food & Feeders

New 15 minute consults at no extra charge – At Delaware Veterinary Group we want to ensure that we spend time understanding you and your pet’s needs which is why we have increased our standard consulting time to 15 minutes.

A nose to tail health check and advice on preventative healthcare with time to discuss and address any concerns, and at NO EXTRA COST. If you need us in an emergency you will be guaranteed to be seen by one of our professional and helpful clinical team as we provide all of our own out of hours services too. Same practice, same vet and same great price. If you are not already registered at the practice visit our website at www.delawarevets. co.uk for an online registration form.

Crossroads Pet Supplies

JJ DOGS

ORDERS WELCOME

If there is something you require which we don’t stock, we will endeavour to order it for you

Delaware Veterinary Group, Castle Cary & Yeovil

Have you discovered Crossroads Pet Supplies? Situated on the Yeovil to Sherborne road, this shop is packed from floor to ceiling - hutches and cages, toys and leads, beds and bowls, seeds and shampoos! All can

be found here.

Whether you like to feed the wild birds or have a pet at home, you can get all your animal feeds from Crossroads. Why not call in? There is ample free parking right outside the door: ideal if you are purchasing food in bulk.

Brunel Pet Centre in the Brunel Precinct, Somerton - everything for your pet including a welcoming bowl of water for passing pets and a warm welcome from Karen the proprietor!

A dog learning to weave at JJ Dogs.

Wincanton BA9 8AP

Dog Training

07747753816

● Puppy Socialisation and Life Skills ● Adult Dog Socialisation and Life Skills ● Pre Foundation Agility ● Foundation Agility ● Competition Agility ● Hoopers ● Scentwork ● Small groups and Private 1-2-1

www.jjdogs.website

Supplying equine, livestock, pet and poultry feed and accessories

Sparkford, Yeovil, BA22 7LH ● 01963 440378 Open: Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm, Sat 8.30am - 1pm

sparkfordanimalfeed@outlook.com www.facebook.com/SparkfordAnimalFeed

16 THE VISITOR August 2018

Accidents happen: If in doubt, consult your vet.

MOTORING

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

SUNDAY, AUGUST 26th is a date which is of interest to everyone who has a passion for old cars, light commercials and motorcycles. This is the day that the Rotary Club of Sherborne Castles holds its Historic Vehicle Rally in The Courts of Sherborne School. There cannot be a more stunning location for holding such an event and all proceeds go to local charities.

Entrants gather in the morning for the 40 mile optional road run before returning by 2pm for the afternoon gathering when the concours judging takes place. The Sherborne Town Band will be playing during these proceedings.

The prizegiving takes place at 4pm.

The Courts will be filled with beautiful old cars of all descriptions so come along and take a look. In recent years the car entry has rather put to shame that of the motorcycling fraternity. There used to be around 120 motorcycles on display but now we are lucky to assemble around 30, so a plea to all old bike enthusiasts to get along and enjoy this superb event.

My picture this month was taken at the recent Dorset Section Pie and Pint Night. Three routes permitted starting at either Sherborne, Gillingham or Blandford and all routes converged to meet at Bulbarrow viewpoint where this picture was taken. Collectively then

Riders at the Bulbarrow viewpoint during the recent Dorset Section Pie and Pint Night.

all participants rode over to the Henstridge Golf Centre where the very welcome pie and pint were consumed. Around 35 bikes (nearly 50 people) took part and a pleasant evening was had by all on what was a glorious evening for a ride.

Ever more events to look forward too during August are as follows. The Somerset Section start proceedings with a guest speaker at their club night at Cossington on the 2nd. The Sign Post Rally and Social Run from Creech St Michael takes place on the 5th and a week later on the 12th will be the Veteran Only Run which starts at The Haynes International Motor Museum. Lastly they have an Evening Meet at The Ring of Bells at Ashcott on the 16th. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section just have their club night at East Stour on the 13th. This will take the form of an auction of motorcycle related parts. The Dorset Section start with their Lunch Meet at West Stour on the 1st and this is followed on the 8th by club night at Henstridge and this will be an Autojumble and Barbecue. On the 12th will be The Border Run also starting from Henstridge and the month's proceedings will conclude with the Breakfast Meet back at West Stour on the 25th.

Other events which may be of interest to you are provided by the Wells Classic Motor Cycle Club. On the 12th August they have their Exmoor Run and on the 19th they have a ride to the Finch Foundry at Sticklepath in Devon. There is always plenty to see and do so if you need more details on any of the above then ring 01935-872528.

I fully admit that my computer skills are sadly lacking. I can do the basic things that I need to do like word processing, photographs and emailing but very seldom venture beyond that. Recently I had an electrical problem with one of my machines in that the charging system did not work. A friend pointed me in the direction of Google (no doubt other operators are available) and

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

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

Email: norrisbodyrepairs@gmail.com • fax: 01935 473119

there explained for me was the testing procedures to try and sort my problem. This was all very well but I quickly became confused with lots of technical jargon. I checked that all wires were connected properly and that there were no breakages but what to do next as the alternator is a sealed unit as is the electronic voltage control and rectifier unit. I have found very few experts specialising in electrical problems, but I am sure someone will soon set me right. I spent several days pondering over this malfunction until desperation had set in and I began to lose the will to live.

Eventually I concluded that my only remedy was to rep lace everything and start afresh. This at least gives me a few days grace to return to sanity whilst waiting for the expensive parcel to arrive. I have however learnt that the magic box in the corner does have its uses beyond what I need it for. I must now look further and see what other wonders the magic box can do for me. I must Google to see what cures they have for old age, baldness and some loss of hearing.

As I write these words we are enjoying (if that be the right word) a splendid period of settled, dry and warm weather. I am putting this to good use and getting out on a bike at every opportunity. I actually hate very warm temperatures as I wilt badly in such conditions but one of my pet hates is having to wear waterproof overtrousers and so it is a joy to be able to go for rides without even strapping the things on the rear carrier. I trust you are also taking advantage of this weather to use your old vehicles.

Rod Hann.

Sherborne Castle basking in the sun during the recent Lancaster Insurance Classic & Supercars Show.

Maurice Maynard and his Ford Escort Rally Car exhibited at the Lancaster Insurance Classic & Supercars Show at Sherborne Castle on 15th July.

GLIDEROL GARAGE DOORS

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

G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414

Yeovil Auto Tuning  

CLASSIC CAR REPAIRS Repairs and Servicing Specialists Established OVER MOT Testing – Classes IV, V and VII also Motorhomes 30 YEARS 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) Caravan Storage  COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE 

● ● ● ● ● ● ●

9 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, YEOVIL 

Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

THE VISITOR August 2018 17

The Gartell Light Railway

With one of the wettest springs in recent years behind us, the Gartell Light Railway welcomes you and your family for a day of enjoying train rides in rural Somerset on Sunday July 29th.

Both of our steam locos, ‘MR. G’ and ‘Jean’ will be in operation together with the Class 33 diesel on the 2 foot gauge line with half full-size coaches. Trains will depart from Common Lane every 25 minutes from 10.30am to 4.20pm.

The trip includes three reversals, and two simultaneous starts from Pinesway Junction.

The return trip takes about 35 minutes and your ticket allows you to ride trains all day, perhaps travelling behind each engine.

The ‘Pines Suite’ has a café and toilets whilst outside there are places to have a picnic if the weather is good. There is also free car parking.

The railway is just off the A357 between Templecombe and Henstridge and there will be

Gartell Light Railway welcomes you and your family for a day of enjoying train rides in rural Somerset on Sunday July 29th.

signposts to help you find the GLR if you haven’t been before.

Fares are Adults £8.00, Seniors £7.00, Children under 14 £5.00 and family tickets (2 adults and up to 2 children) £22.00. Please see the advertisement for details or go online at newglr.weebly.com.

New Sunday Brunch Menu

Enjoy a relaxing morning in our sunny courtyard or cosy tea shop Available 9 am - 12 noon

Summer Wedding? Garden Party?

Vintage CHINA HIRE Available Create an event that is both memorable and marvellous with our carefully selected pieces.

Somerset Afternoon CREAM TEA FOR TWO – £25 Delicious Finger Sandwiches Homemade Cakes, Scones and Clotted Cream.

All served on a Vintage Style Cake Stand with China Teacups and Saucers

Bespoke OUTSIDE CATERING Anniversaries, Weddings, Birthdays, Garden Parties ...  Mouthwatering Canapes  Tailored to Suit You!

CELEBRATION AFTERNOON CREAM TEA FOR TWO – £40 ... to include Champagne ... please book in advance  Vouchers can now be purchased online – the ideal gift 

kate@livingpretty.co.uk • www.livingpretty.co.uk The Old Bakery, High Street, Curry Rivel, Somerset, TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 253357

18 THE VISITOR August 2018

Living Pretty, Curry Rivel

At Living Pretty you can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea beautifully presented on a vintage style cake stand to include champagne on arrival, a pot of tea, fancy finger sandwiches, succulent savoury bites, mini scones, clotted cream and jumbleberry jam, and a selection of sweet delights, all for just £20 per head. Gluten free is available on request. Perfect for a special occasion such as a

birthday or hen party.

Enjoy the summer evenings with our beautiful range of scented candles, whilst keeping the late night chills at bay with our colourful scarves and pashminas.

You will also find a beautiful range of country lifestyle interiors for sale: from floral and striped cushions to pretty lamps, polkadot pottery, stunning throws, painted furniture, cosy armchairs and many more decorative accessories.

Make your house and garden look effortlessly welcoming all year round.

August Notice Board BRUTON

BRUTON ART SOCIETY 65th Annual Exhibition. King's Bruton School Memorial Hall Bruton BA10 0ED Exhibition runs saturday 18th August-Saturday 25th August 115pm daily. Free Entry.

SOUTH PERROTT

Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea beautifully presented on a vintage style cake stand at Living Pretty, Curry Rivel.

SOUTH PERROTT VILLAGE Fayre Sunday 12th August from 11am to 4pm. An enjoyable day out with something for all the family in this pretty Dorset village. Free entry and free car parking. Contact 01935 891291

SOMERTON

SOMERTON GROUP OF ARTISTS Art Exhibition and sale of work. Tuesday 14th to Friday 17th August, 10am - 6pm and Saturday 18th August, 10am 2pm at the Parish Rooms, Somerton. Free entry.

SOUTH PETHERTON

NEW OIL PAINTINGS by CLIVE MELBOURNE and SUE DETAIN are exhibited in The Studio, East Lambrook Manor Gardens, 10.00am - 5.00pm, 1127 August. Open Tuesday Saturday. Exhibition free.

Advertise your September event here

Notice Board costs £5 for 20 words, 30p per extra word. Send to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG or email info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk.

Entries to be pre-paid, September Deadline, 10th August.

JULY ...

Fri 27th dAYTOnA Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse (9pm)

AUGUST ...

Fri 3rd THE fridGE TimErS Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse (8.30pm) Wed 8th JAmminG SESSiOn Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse (8pm) Fri 10th rOdnEY BrAnniGAn Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse (8.30pm) Fri 24th mUTTEr & CLivE Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil (9.00pm) Fri 24th GrEG AGAr Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse (8.30pm) Sat 25th GrEG AGAr Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Fri 31st THE dUALiTY The Old Pound Inn, Aller

Make your own bunting using free patterns from Hansons Fabrics & Crafts, Sturminster Newton.

Above left: Lyme Regis acrylic by Mike Jackson, framed in a wide black tray moulding, 20" x 20", framed price £595.00. Above right: Morning Post Under Ham Hill, watercolour by Mike Jackson, mounted size 20" x 16", mounted price £95.00. Both available at Martock Gallery, Martock.

‘Salty Feet’ Limited edition print by:

Rebecca Lardner Complete Framing Service Available

Image size 12” x 12”

Framed price:

£250.00

martock Gallery Open: monday - friday 9.00 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.30

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

THE VISITOR August 2018 19

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.

family Health with

Jenna Evans

Q&As

WELCOME to my first Q&A column! Family Health is now a forum for you to ask me your health questions. I can’t of course guarantee they will all end up in print or be answered in person but I will try! You can write to me at Ceres Natural Foods, 9-11 Princes Street, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1EN; email info@ ceresfoods.co.uk or message me on my Facebook page Alchemical BeautyUK.

Q. My children are about to break up from school and with holidays in the pipeline I thought it would be a good idea to spruce up my first aid kit. What do you recommend?

A. With all the extra biting creatures, travel bugs and

Solution in the September issue!

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

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 32

reaction to last month's quiz was so favourable, let's see how you fare with these in the same vein!

1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10)

Brian Poole and the … ? freddie and the … ?

Bob marley and the … ? martha reeves and the … ?

Gerry and the … ? noah and the … ?

Simon dupree and the … ?

Hatfield and the … ?

Harold melvin and the … ?

Jay and the … ?

Bonus Question:

Which of the above bands was formed by brothers derek Shulman, Phil Shulman, and ray Shulman?

Great Quotes in Music (105)

Love songs are one of the great essences of life, the only thing that's lasting - George Benson 20 THE VISITOR August 2018

scorching sun, summer is a great time of year to look at our first aid kits.

There are several essential oils in my kit, here are my top 5:Citronella - is antiseptic, deodorant, insecticide, antibacterial, anti-fungal. This strong lemon scented oil is most famous for being a potent insect repellent – you may well have already used it in those citronella scented candles that always appear in stores on the approach to summer.

The essential oil can be blended into base oils for use as an insect repelling body balm.

Clove - has traditionally been used as a remedy for toothache and for that alone deserves a place in any first aid kit. Other uses include treating athlete’s foot, rheumatism, dyspepsia and colds.

Can be irritating so use with caution at a low dilution.

Eucalyptus - is a prime remedy for respiratory support, commonly used in blends for coughs, catarrh, sinusitis, bronchitis and asthma.

Lavender - is an essential for any first aid kit. Wounds, bruises,

The Dress Circle Dress Agency

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

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

For large quantities collections can be arranged

4 Brunel Shopping Centre Somerton TA11 7PY  01458 273485

At Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie of Shaftesbury, swimsuits all have 10% off. Sizes from 10 to 26 stocked in selected styles.

bumps, burns, sprains, headaches, anxiety, shock, insect bites and stings, nausea, throat infections and catarrh can all benefit from the use of lavender. Lavender is one of the only common oils that can be used neat on the skin, although I always apply caution and dilute everything, at least until I have ascertained my skin's response. I have used it neat successfully on burns.

Tea Tree - you can smell the disinfectant quality of this oil, so it may not be the most appealing to some noses! Medicinally though, it has many potential applications and as a general all rounder, is a must for any medicine chest. In a rub or inhalation, Tea Tree may help to relieve asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs and infections.

Acne, abscesses, blisters, cold sores, herpes, insect bites, oily skin, rashes, wounds, spots, scabies, warts and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and dandruff have all been treated with Tea Tree.

Considered non-toxic although it may be sensitising in some individuals.

Tissue salts are very useful remedies to have around, these four in particular feature in my kit:Ferr Phos - the first aid remedy. For oxygenating the tissues, strengthening blood vessels, clearing congestion, antiinflammatory. May benefit racing hearts, fevers and anaemia.

Kali Mur - a glandular tonic.

Lymphatic support. Thick white/greyish discharge are indicative of this remedy. May be used for sore ulcerated throats, tonsillitis, catarrhal infections, middle ear infections and white coating on the tongue. Also inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system.

Kali Sulph - the skin balancer.

Affinity for the lining of the skin and the internal mucus membranes. Yellow or green discharges are indicative of this remedy. Coating on the tongue, catarrh, scaly skin, athlete’s foot, chills and pains which wander about the body.

Mag Phos - the muscle and nerve tonic. A popular remedy for cramps and restless legs.

Spasmodic or shooting pains, all nerve or muscle related pains, fibromyalgia, polymyalgia rheumatica, sciatica, shingles, neuralgia and menstrual cramps may all benefit.

I always have a bottle of Colloidal Silver to hand.

Colloidal Silver has a very broad spectrum of anti-microbial activity, targeting viruses, bacteria and fungi. It is considered very safe for all ages, babies included. Can be used topically and internally.

Colloidal Silver has been hailed by many as a panacea. Not surprising when you see the long list of diseases it is supposed to have helped (some of which I list below).

In my opinion Colloidal Silver is not a cure all, but it is a fantastic remedy to help with all kind of infections. I always have some in my medicine kit at home and have used it safely internally, externally, in eyes and ears, as an antibacterial hand spray, for babies and animals. Here are a few problems Colloidal Silver could help treat - Acne, Athletes Foot, Burns, Cuts, Colds, Cold Sores, Mouth Ulcers, Dandruff, Ear Infections, Eye Infections, Flu, Food Poisoning, Insect Bites & Stings, Laryngitis, Nappy Rash, Sinusitis, Sunburn, Abscesses, Ulcers, Urinary Infections, Yeast Infections. It has so many uses and can be used by the whole family, pets included, so I would certainly recommend every home have a bottle in their medicine chest!

Another staple is Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). For sore throats a cooled infusion of sage with equal parts ACV can work wonders when used as a gargle. ACV has been used topically to relive the pain of burns, including sunburn, soothe insect bites, treat blemishes and acne, stamp out athlete’s foot, eliminate corns and warts, fight flaky dandruff, fade freckles, aid the healing of shingles, impetigo and ringworm as well as banish varicose veins! ACV is generally applied neat for all of these conditions, although I would advise you always patch test and begin by diluting ACV in water.

A tube of Aloe Vera gel kept in the fridge as an aftersun and to soothe soreness is a must.

Lastly, when travelling I would add a travel probiotic to ward off digestive upsets. Happy Holidays!

 Jenna is an Holistic Health Coach and creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty UK’. Jenna is also a multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions

Want to celebrate the NHS? Go plant-based

In July, the NHS celebrated its 70th birthday and decades of saving people’s lives, free of charge. This radical healthcare system is unique across the world in providing health care for everyone, irrespective of wealth, status or any other factor and it is one of the things we can be truly proud of as a nation.

In recent years, the NHS has come under threat as a result of dramatic cuts to funding, coupled with increasing strain being put on its services, due to a rise in conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. That’s why we believe that in order to celebrate the NHS - and to save it we should all be eating more plantbased foods.

‘There is no better way to celebrate the wonderful institution that is the NHS than by protecting it, and our health, by eating more plant-based foods,’ said Zephie Begolo, Head of Campaigns for ProVeg UK. ‘Evidence is mounting that plantbased diets, along with reducing or

eliminating meat and dairy products, have huge benefits for our health, from lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, to having a much lower risk of developing diseases or becoming obese. It follows that if we take better care of ourselves, we take better care of the NHS and reduce the strain on the service.’

Not only does a plant-based diet have multiple health benefits – it serves to prevent and even reverse disease and has been found particularly effective in tackling our number one killer and drain on the NHS: heart disease - but a recent study from Ghent University showed that if more people ate more plants and less meat and dairy, substantial savings could be made to our health service.

According to the findings, the UK could save as much as £5.2 billion over the next 20 years if only ten per cent of the population ate more plant-based food. A similar study from Oxford University showed that eating meat no more than three times a week could prevent 31,000 deaths from heart disease, 9,000 deaths from cancer and 5,000 deaths from strokes every year, saving the NHS £1.2 billion.

We can all contribute to saving the NHS and saving our health by making small and simple changes to our diets. We need to eat more plants and less meat.

Fashion Boutique Wincanton

Market Place • Wincanton  01963 31676 www.previewwincanton.co.uk

SUMMER SALE NOW ON Up to 50% off

THE VISITOR August 2018 21

Bradfords Building Supplies Goes From Strength To Strength – Year-On-Year Sales Up 19 Per Cent

Bradfords Building Supplies is reaping the rewards of expansion with turnover set to pass £150million in 2018/19.

Thanks to a remarkably loyal customer base and continued

investment in the expertise of staff, total sales for 2017/18 rose 19 per cent.

Bradfords Building Supplies (BBS) continues to expand with 42 builders merchant businesses, 23 YPS plumbing branches, 23 tool hire branches and nine kitchen and bathroom showrooms. More acquisitions and green field sites

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —

All works completed by our experienced and 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 and Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken

Contact us for a free estimate

(01935) 808456

www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk

rEGAL SOLUTiOnS SW LTd South Petherton BATHrOOmS & SHOWErS disabled Walk-in Showers ramps for the disabled

Electrical Work Undertaken ◆ General Carpentry

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

MEMBER

Registered Wet Room Installer

Electrical

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

22 THE VISITOR August 2018

are planned for this year including a relocation of the well-established Sherborne store to a purpose-built 2.5acre site.

Last year saw a drive by BBS to become the easiest merchant to do business with. The company focussed on hiring the right people then giving them the freedom and space to deliver. The recruitment of superb branch managers to lead their teams coupled with the removal of unnecessary process and procedure allowed branch teams to focus more on customers.

BBS continues to invest in sales teams and sales support. There are

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

now three separate sales offices and more than 20 sales people on the road, all working closely with clients to add value through expertise and product and systems knowledge. The partnership team, which works with housing associations and service providers is also growing.

BBS’s consumer retail website is performing well, and its trade website will launch in September.

This will allow customers to order deliveries and make click and collect purchases as well as see invoices, proof of delivery and pay their invoices. This trade website will help customers save time and money by securely hosting all their account management.

David Young, Managing Director of BBS said: ‘We are excited about the year ahead – our customer base is busy and market uncertainties do not seem to be slowing them down. The weather has clearly helped in recent months however the underlying local market dynamics remain strong and we are confident of maximising every opportunity in the years ahead.

‘The business was established in 1770 and we look forward to 2020 and celebrating 250 years in merchanting. We are a family owned business and the future looks bright for another 250 years.’

Sandpits Heating & Home Store and Kate Macey Designs

A wood-burning or multi-fuel stove is an excellent addition to any home no matter what the time of year. With summer offers and many package deals throughout the recently refurbished showroom, browse at leisure and let them follow up with a home survey.

Sandpits are there to help you decide on what would suit you and your property best. Aarow, Charnwood, Jotul, Hwam, Clearview and Aga are just some

J2 Tiles & Bathrooms offer a range of custom and bespoke options, including these unique cut-out tile clocks.

of the stoves that they hold.

Designs to suit all tastes and properties and with installation solutions which may surprise you.

You don’t necessarily need a chimney, a chimney can be created with a twinwall flue, fireplaces can be created or existing chimneys relined: all by Sandpits employed staff.

Fireplaces make a lovely focal point and can be created or

customised to enable you to achieve the effect that you desire.

Focus Fireplaces offer a huge range of authentic beams and shelves to complement your stove. Sandpits can give you more information and advice about the choices available to you.

Their kitchen showroom has also just been updated and is well worth a visit. As well as stocking a range of display model cookers

from Rayburn and Esse, they have a wonderful range of Aga cookware – perfect for anyone who has (or would like to have!) an Aga or Rayburn.

Compliment your dream room by visiting Kate Macey Design, for made to measure curtains or even to discuss upcycling that favourite but tired chair or lamp. With an extensive range of textiles, you’ll be sure to find something to suit.

SANDPITS HEATING

DUMPY BAG of KILN DRIED LOGS 1 Bag £150 2 Bags £250 3 Bags £350

FLOGAS Propane, Butane & Patio Gas deliveries

50 YEARS

Multi-purpose Compost

80 litre: £4.50 each or 3 for £12.00

● Ericaceous Compost Top Soil ● Peat ● Land Bark ● Growbags ● Horse Manure

‘Autumn Thoughts’

Thinking of a new Woodburner or Gas Stove for the winter?

● Stoves: Wood, Multifuel, Gas ● Rayburn & Aga Cookers ● Flue liner & Twin Wall Systems ● Fireplace Works ● Full Installation Service

Promotional offers in our Showroom

Heat Centre

Competitive prices

SERVICING & REPAIRS GAS - LPG - OIL - SOLID FUEL

Servicing of Rayburn & Aga Cookers, Boilers, Gas fires and Stoves

• Spare parts readily available • Fully Qualified Gas Safe and Oftec Engineers • New installations & quotes

• Introductory prices available during the Summer months • Please email dannii@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

Visit Our Showrooms - Open Six Days A Week Summer Opening (From 1st May) Saturday 8am - 1pm Over 200 appliances on display Full installation service available High Street • Curry Rivel • Langport • TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 251476 • Fax: 01458 253505 www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk Large Car Park at Rear of Premises

THE VISITOR August 2018 23

Homemaker - Kitchens

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it makes sense that you want to love it. It can be a hub and a haven: a place for cooking for family and friends, chatting over coffee or an evening glass of wine, and for children to do their homework after a busy day at school.

Homemaker know that not

everyone is the same, so they are there to help you choose the kitchen that best suits your requirements. There is a style to suit all tastes, from very contemporary styles and bold colours to the more traditional painted finishes. They offer a personal service and have years of experience.

Homemaker’s showroom in

Interest free finance options are available at Homemaker, let them help you turn your dreams into reality.

Shaftesbury will inspire you, and their custom kitchen design service will ensure that the end result is a combination of a truly beautiful kitchen that is also completely practical and user friendly. Their specialists will work with you to design you a kitchen that is beautiful not just to look at but to be in. You will get value for money and a quality product.

Homemaker are also able to supply a wide range of kitchen appliances from leading manufacturers. So, whether you want a new kitchen designed and installed or a new appliance, look no further than Homemaker.

Contact 01747 851 476 for their Shaftesbury branch. Also in Warminster and Bath.

24 THE VISITOR August 2018

Hidden Storage: Practical storage solutions for your kitchen available at Homemaker, Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury and 5-6 George Street Warminster.

Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury, SP7 8PL 01747 851476 5 – 6 George Street Warminster, BA12 8QA 01985 219200

☎

☎

Log on to the website to see our fantastic deals! www.myhomemaker.co.uk

THE VISITOR August 2018 25

The

Made To Measure Gates & Railings • Handrails • Garden Furniture Curtain Poles • Pond Covers, etc.

General Welding & Repairs

Enquiries: 01935 864444 desiron0@gmail.com

Unit 5, East Coker Saw Mills, East Coker, BA22 9JJ

Pub Pages

B EER & S KI TTL ES P. A. BAXTER

WHILST GREAT BRITAIN basks in a proper summer, and 40 million people didn't bother to watch the England football team get knocked out of the World Cup, the real shock news is that the Baxter team have been sampling lagers... Yes it's true, although the mass-produced 'chemical lagers' from the big producers were definitely left out of the equation.

We started with the awardwinning 'Toasted' Lager at 5.5% ABV from the Blue Point Brewing Company of Long Island, USA. This

Bathing a problem? We can help

Simply affordable solutions for bathing needs

Wet rooms • Walk in showers • Walk in baths Waterproof wall panelling Product and installation guarantee Slip resistant safety flooring Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets Established family business Zero VAT on disabled bathrooms Discounts for over 60s, SSAFA and Ex-Service Personnel

Call now to arrange a FREE survey and quote

Tel: 01823 729564

info@ahminstallations.co.uk • www.ahminstallations.co.uk Showroom at: Blackdown Garden Centre, A38 West Buckland, Nr. Wellington, TA21 9HY Tel: 01823 661910

26 THE VISITOR August 2018

was really excellent although only in a 355ml bottle, although we did share it and all enjoyed it. To our surprise this is now a subsidiary of Anheauser-Busch as like so many of the small independent new-wave of brewers that become increasingly successful, the Big Boys want a share of their success. Well there's nothing really new in the brewing industry, just that constant change.

We next had a canned lager – yes you read right – from the Camden Brewery which had a real 'bite' which surprised us, but got more enjoyable as it went down the glass.

Next we had an alcohol-free lager from … well unfortunately I put the bottle out for re-cycling before writing this, and I can't recall which one it was! To my surprise, however, it was very acceptable – much better than so many I tried back in the day. There's no shame in an alcoholfree beer or lager, I think we should all give them a try now and again, particularly if one has to drive but still likes to have a drink with the mates or relations. I will keep a look out for the same lager and report back. Some while ago our local sports and social club had bottles of lowalcohol beer, which I have to say was not so palatable on its own, but to reduce my alcohol intake (particularly as we skittled on a 'school night' there) a couple of us would make it acceptable with

adding a brown ale – making a pint of 'Brown split'! This particular drink will very likely only be remembered by drinkers of a certain age, as sadly brown ale is nothing like so prevalent as it was when your writer started his drinking 'career' on the stuff. Light ale was the other constituent for a brown split which has also become a rarity in bottles.

We have still come across brown ale on occasions but it would appear that it's only a few of the new generation brewers that are prepared to make it now – unless you good people know we can get some!

The constant battle one has with the big brewers and their massive advertising is met by the smaller brewers with higher quality, or at least they should, so the products sell themselves. We always remember that 'great pint' and look forward to another of the same, do we not? I wonder how many drinkers of fizzy beer were forced to try something with real flavour if their regular drinks were not available due to the CO2 shortage.

Of course, high-volume keg beer has the true life taken out of it and thence artificially pumped up with CO2 to give it some semblance of life. Whether or not there was sudden upsurge in the consumption of real ales because of the lack of CO2 or because of the football, I have yet to find out. Recently we have had the mis-fortune of being served less than decent pints of beer, thanks, we are told, to the hot weather. This is not an excuse, as decent beers need to be kept at a constant temperature, and served cool not cold, in a cool glass. Having said that, we have had many real ales that have been put though the cooler before being served, so they reach us well below cellar temperature. Whilst some real fans might cringe at this, in these times where the beer is virtually at room temperature before one is halfway through a pint, I really don't have a problem with it. When we were in New Orleans, some of the beers we had were virtually ice-cold, but soon 'came round' to a more acceptable temperature for us Brits. Mind you, the Americans were tipping it down their necks at this temperature, although I seriously doubt if they were actually tasting it!

Speaking of takeovers it was somewhat of a shock when the Meantime Brewery in London was sold to SAABMiller. This was in 2015, and then it was sold on to Asahi Holdings Group from Japan in 2016. Their beers form part of the range available at Sainsbury's in their 'Taste the Difference' range, and whilst we still have a number of their products to sample, I can thoroughly recommend their Porters,

which we found first in Marks and Spencers. The brewery was founded in 2000 by Alistair Hook who has won the accolade of 'Brewer of the Year' at least once, and although things appear to to be going along as normal at the moment who knows what may happen.

One of our recent pub visits was to the 'Cross Keys' at Lydford-onFosse. This pub is a regular advertiser in 'The Visitor' and unexpectedly we took a trip there for an excellent lunch and excellent pint. All the ales are available out of the cask and all the accolades that this pub receive are well deserved.

We were served by the charming Coral who even managed a few moments out of her busy schedule to show us the skittle alley, which I am pleased to say still gets a good amount of use, in fact she believed a refurbish was on the cards. The pub even has a newsletter which one can take away to ensure various events and functions are not missed.

Somewhat of a Tardis, we heartily recommend a visit; you will not be disappointed!

Exciting news on the domestic market for ales is that the Mount St Bernard Abbey in Leicetershire is brewing what is believed to be the first English monastic beer since the reformation. Situated near Coalville in an area which yours truly and a couple friends knew very well at one time, their contemporaries in Belgium have suggested that they should not brew something in the style of that country, but go for their own. The result is 'Tynt Meadow' weighing in at 7.4%ABV, available in bottle-conditioned form and made entirely from English ingredients.

The monks have employed professionals to distribute their products and there may be a chance that it will be available in supermarkets. The kit used came from Bavaria which can make 2000 litres per brew and supply and

PUB PEOPLE

demand will decide how well things go for the brethren. I guess they are praying for success, and I wish them good fortune. There is no mention of hopeful customers queuing at the monastery gate as was the case for Westvleteren, although this ale seem to be more available now despite what some sources seem to think.

Their approach to brewing is the direct opposite of modern business thinking, ‘We are not brewers. We are monks. We brew beer to be able to afford being monks.’ and I recommend anyone interested in the subject to take a look at the information on the internet regarding their history and philosophy.

So, with a Trappist ale being brewed almost in the centre of England, will they be open to visitors, will they be inundated with orders and thrive, and will they have a Leicetershire skittle table for the monks to play as they enjoy the fruits of their labours? I would think it unlikely.

P.A. Baxter. skittlealley@hotmail.com

Cross Keys Inn Raises Money For The Alzheimer’s Society

A Charity Presentation Evening was held on Tuesday June 26th following the Cross Keys Inn’s successful Annual Beer Festival at Lydford-onFosse, which also raised money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

The pub owner David Grindley and manager Tom Wilton handed over a cheque for £1000 to Sian Neville - Community Fundraiser for the charity. This was followed by a thank you party, with food drink and music supplied by the pub for all the sponsors who kindly donated a barrel of beer for the event and for volunteers who gave their time free of charge to raise funds for the charity.

The Spring Bank Holiday event was very well attended with a lively music programme of 9 bands over the 4 days. The festival drew in a great mix of people from real ale enthusiasts to families and locals which created a warm community atmosphere. The 35 real ales and 19 farmhouse ciders helped to make the weekend go with a swing.

Owner of the Cross Keys Inn, David Grindley with manager Tom Wilton as he hands over a cheque for £1000 to Sian Neville - Community Fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

Dinnington, Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397

The MUDDLED

MAN

Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to

Lower Street, West Chinnock A charming country inn serving home cooked fayre lunchtime & evening

Come and make use of our beer garden

SUNDAY LUNCH £7.95 - choice of roast Larger parties catered for

‘Young Ivo Williams is shown

skittle balls in the making by Derek 'Wally' Walters, a man who has dedicated much of his life to the game in various ways’

FRESH FISH Day Friday

With home-made beer batter

STEAK SPECIAL - Two 8oz Rump Steaks £16.50 Sunday to Thursday

Daily Specials • Real Ale • Skittle Alley • Beer Gardens • Accommodation

Tel: 01935 881235

THE VISITOR August 2018 27

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

IN CURRY RIVEL ... delicious homemade burgers served at The Firehouse ... Happy Hour Sunday to Thursday from 4pm to 6pm at The Old Pound Inn, Aller ... early booking advised for Sunday Lunch at The White Hart Hotel, Martock ... the Specials Board is updated daily at The Nags Head ... enjoy a drink in the sunny beer garden at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock ... and don’t miss the annual Beer & Cider Festival taking place on Friday 27th July at The Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil, a charity event in aid of School in a Bag. Congratulations go to The Cross Keys Inn, Lydford on Fosse where £1,000 has been raised for The Alzheimer’s Society and where if you like your music to be soul and rock, the party band Daytona are playing on Friday 27th July ... dine alfesco in the well-tended garden of The Natterjack Inn, Evercreech Junction ... Castle Cary’s reopened Horse Pond Inn is looking very smart at The Triangle ... raise money for Cancer Research at the Beer Festival to be held at The George Hotel 24th-26th August ... tasty belly pork at The Catash Inn, North Cadbury ... the front of The Sparkford Inn, Sparkford is looking very jolly with its attractive hanging baskets ... and while staying at The Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham, recharge your batteries and your car at the same time.

They Say That former Weymouth business man, Tony Hawkins, will be delighted to learn of the successful restoration of the iconic Jubilee Clock on the seafront, having often met there with his chums before his millennium move to Portugal.

That Ryan Sandercock of Castle Cary has a very old satnav.

That in Israel, Jerusalem has its Wailing Wall and we have just heard that in Somerset, not to be outdone, Wincanton is to have its very own Listening Wall, according to the SSDC Planning List.

That there was air between the seat and the bottom of North Cadbury’s Dave Hoddinott while passing through Dinnington recently.

That Sherborne’s Digby Hall is undergoing refurbishment.

That huge crowds enjoyed the spectacle of the Classic & Supercars Show at Sherborne Castle recently.

That having received an offer they couldn’t refuse, Castle Cary’s Mr & Mrs Teasy Weasy are leaving the hair management profession after 46 years and their customers wish them good health and happiness in their retirement.

That Wincanton’s Wendy K still has a draughty house.

That Yeovil District Hospital are celebrating 70 years of the National Health Service with an appropriate floral display at their Reckleford entrance.

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

Come all you sinners and keep with the time can we see all the faces that have fallen behind

FIRST PERSON TO tell me the song above gets a free drink.

Last month John Penny of Bradford Abbas correctly identified Summer in the City, by The Lovin’ Spoonful.

Well, the World Cup had a few surprises for us all and didn’t we do well? I am sure that at the beginning of the tournament if anyone had said that we would be in the semi-finals no one would have believed it. I am sure that it bodes well for the future  This month some of our ladies organised a charity golf day at Yeovil Golf Club, in aid of Macmillan Nurses. Well, they managed to raise just shy of £4500 so a special thank you and well done goes out to Lucy, Sheila, Mharri, Andrea and Angie - great stuff girls!!

On August 13th we see the return of Suzanne Gill with her special display of Mediumship, her last visit was very interesting so book your tickets now.

On Friday 24th of August we have Mutter & Clive live in the bar.

Music starts just after 9pm and it’s Free!!

On Saturday 25th (Bank Holiday We e k e n d ) w e a r e h a v i n g a Barbecue out in the garden with some Live Music provided by the fabulous Greg Agar. Should be fun so get your face in the place.

Finally, my Mrs and 3 of her pals squeezed into the back of my car after going to Weight Watchers. I muttered ‘Fat Cows’, the Mrs snapped ‘What was that?’ I said ‘You Herd’.

Toot Toot!!! 

BOOKINGS

28 THE VISITOR August 2018

 01935 424721

GARDENING MONTHLY

Gardening for August

THE HOT, SUNNY WEATHER is playing havoc with lawns and those which are close cut and the clippings removed become patchy and brown easily. It is necessary to put back what you take away, so use a few handfuls of fertilizer, or lawn dressing to help the shallow rooting grasses to survive.

At the time of writing there hasn’t been any rain to speak of, or to have any effect in the garden, just a few localised showers, so hopefully you have been one of the lucky ones and your water butt caught what little there has been.

Hanging baskets, patio tubs and planters will keep flowering

as long as they are looked after.

Don’t forget the three essentials: deadheading, watering and feeding. Most container composts will have used up their original supply of fertilizer by now so the added boost from a liquid feed is so important and so worthwhile.

In the vegetable garden regular picking of peas, beans, courgettes etc., encourages more flowers and more fruit. Stop picking and the plant will think it doesn’t need to bother anymore. Courgettes are prone to mildew in hot weather so removing the diseased leaves on young plants should help, older plants will probably collapse.

Extra Tips for August Gardening

The UK’s gardeners are making the most of the fine weather to spend time outdoors, but they should also be looking to the

seasons ahead and begin preparing their garden for the colder spell. There are plenty of jobs to keep you busy in the garden this month; it’s the perfect time of year to plant your winter vegetables and start cutting back and deadheading flowers to

encourage continual healthy growth.

David Mitchell, buying manager for horticulture at Wyevale Garden Centres, shares his gardening jobs of the month, helping you to get one step closer to your dream back garden:

All types of Fencing

• Gates • Trellis • Fence Panels • Tool Sheds • Summer Houses • Garages • Workhouses • Greenhouses • Field Shelters

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

PLANT WORLD For the best plants!

For all your gardening needs

Do Call In • Open 7 Days a Week • Ample FREE Parking

Milton On Stour, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5QA Tel: 01747 824015

THE VISITOR August 2018 29

1. Safeguard your tomato plants

2. Prune your perennial herbs

Whether you’re looking to flavour your meat or garnish your cocktails, herbs are the plant of the moment and a fantastic addition to gardens of all sizes.

Oregano and thyme are perennial herbs which mean they grow back each year without needing to be replanted. To promote their growth each year, trim them in August before the winter months hit to ensure they withstand the frost.

Remove the lower level leaves from your tomato plant to help reduce its risk of disease and keep it thriving for longer. When a tomato plant’s growth is dense or when the leaves lie too close to the ground this can mean that the leaves are permanently in the shade.

By removing the lower level l e av e s f r o m t h e p l a n t t h e remaining leaves have more space and access to sunlight so are more likely to stay drier and free from soil containing pathogens, thus they are more protected from disease.

3. Plan ahead for gardening leave

It is important not to leave your plants neglected while you are on

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

holiday. A great way to make sure your plants are being watered without asking the neighbours to cover is to invest in a growbag waterer. Once set up, you can control the amount and frequency of water needed for your plants, leaving them perfectly hydrated without becoming waterlogged.

4. Lop back your lavender

As with many blooms, it’s important to cut back lavender after its flowering period to promote new growth. Make sure you do so lightly to help maintain the plant’s well-rounded shape.

You should be pruning around one third of the plant using a

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TR EE PLA N TIN G

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

WEHC600 Retail: £169.99 Now: £159.99

5. Deadhead petunia and potted dahlias

Deadheading ensures that plants maintain a healthy continual bloom and August is the ideal month to trim back potted petunias and dahlias. Plants such as dahlias have tough and stringy stems so opt for secateurs, scissors or knives when removing the flower heads.

6. Wind down for winter

Use this month to plant your hardy vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and Brussel sprouts, so they are ready to be harvested throughout the winter months.

Make sure you plant in an open site with free-draining soil and cultivate before planting to ensure these vegetables have the best chance of growing.

For more information and advice on August’s jobs of the month, along with all the tools you need to gain ground in the garden, visit www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk.

2 YEAR WARRANTY

26cc 5 Position rear handle 35mm Max cutting diameter 600mm Max cutting width 22” Blade

WEMC26 (4 in 1) Retail: £269.99 Now: £259.99

26cc 25cm Cutting width Hedge cutter with 43.5mm cutting length Anti Vibration Harness

BenJohnson GARDEN MACHINERY

30 THE VISITOR August 2018

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

sharp, clean set of pruning shears.

WEPHT26 Retail: £189.99 Now: £169.99 26cc 23” Blade 25mm Max cutting diameter Anti Vibration Harness

JOB VACANCY: Full time mechanic required, experience not neccessary.

Please apply directly.

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

Pimms

Sparkford Timber Buildings & Gates have been crafting speciality timber buildings since 1912.

See their advert on page 2 for more information.

Full ground preparation and laying service available

The Farmhouse, Somerton Door, SOMERTON, TA11 6JA Tel / Fax: 01458 272091 www.evergreen-turf.co.uk • info@evergreen-turf.co.uk

LEE HOLMES Garden Machinery

15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, SOMERTON Tel: 01458 274261 • www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk

● Sales ● Repairs ● Servicing ● Sharpening ● Call out ● Robotic installations

WITH SOARING temperatures in recent weeks causing us all to complain about the heat, and with Wimbledon in full swing at the time of writing, it seems the perfect weather for Pimm’s, a long and refreshing alternative to a glass of wine or a cool beer. Perfect for BBQs, and easy on the pocket too.

Pimm’s seems to me to be the quintessential British summer drink, bringing to mind the pleasure of being able to sit outside, winding down after a hard week at the office, cricket teas, croquet on the lawn, or just a drink with friends in the garden before Sunday lunch; the life many of us would like the time to lead if we weren’t all working our socks off.

Whatever you are doing and wherever you are, ‘It’s Pimm’s o’clock!’ somewhere.

Pimm’s was invented in 1823 by James Pimm, a farmer’s son from Kent, who later went on to own an oyster bar in the city of London.

It is actually a brand of what are known as ‘fruit cups’ and was intended to be a pick-me-up to aid digestion. The name derives from the fact that it was served in a small tankard known as a ‘No. 1 Cup’, hence its subsequent name.

The original Pimm’s was gin-based and contained quinine and a secret mixture of herbs and liqueurs.

Sales to other bars were so successful that large-scale production began in 1851, and by 1859 Pimm’s was being sold commercially. Pimm eventually sold the business on, and the right to use his name, so that by 1887 a chain of Pimm’s Oyster Houses was franchised. Pimm’s is most popular in southern England, and, along with Champagne, is one of the two established drinks on offer at highprofile social events throughout the summer season, such as Henley Regatta and Glyndebourne; it is of course de rigeur for polo fans everywhere. Over the years a range of Pimm’s fruit cups have been produced using other spirits as bases, each variation with its own ‘cup’ number, but it is Pimm’s No. 1 that has stood the test of time. From time to time one-offs have also been put on the market to boost flagging sales, including the limited edition Strawberry Pimm’s, launched just in time for Wimbledon a few years ago.

Pimm’s No. 1 Cup is the colour of strong tea with a reddish hue, and can be served either on ice or used in cocktails. It has a subtle

taste of spice and citrus fruit and is bottled at 25% abv. When on offer in pubs and restaurants, Pimm’s, often described as fruit salad in a glass, will usually be served on ice and topped up with lemonade, along with the addition of whatever fruit they’ve got available. Personally, I prefer it mixed with ginger ale, and for a treat, given my well-known penchant for bubbly, I will always go for ‘Pimm’s Royal Cup’, made by mixing it 50/50 with well chilled champagne or sparkling wine. The following recipes can be made using any of the Pimm’s styles available.

Traditional Pimm’s – use one part Pimm’s to two parts lemonade. Add ice and pop in a slice of orange, lemon, apple and cucumber before finishing off with a sprig of mint or borage.

Turbo Pimm’s – this should get your engine running nicely. Make using five parts lemonade, two parts Pimm’s, one part gin. Add fruit as you wish.

English Passion – ideal for when you are feeling fruity. Fill a cocktail shaker 2/3 full with ice, add 50ml of Pimm’s and 25ml of vodka, plus the juice of a passion fruit and a dash of sugar syrup.

Shake well and strain. Garnish with mint to serve.

Maximum Voltage – to really turn up the pulse of any party, fill a cocktail shaker 2/3 full with ice, add 50ml of Pimm’s, 25ml vodka and 25ml Cointreau. Shake well and strain into a tall glass. Top up with soda water and garnish with mint.

For Pimm’s with a difference you could also try making it in to an alcoholic jelly for a posh summer pud, or freeze and serve as a granita, the semi-frozen Italian dessert.

L.P-V.

THE VISITOR August 2018 31

the end bit...

MANY MONTHS AGO, in its 5th January issue, the Western Daily Press carried a two-page appeal for readers to buy the paper on subscription (payable by direct debit, in advance) and save 40% on the cover price for the first 13 weeks and 20% thereafter. Pay up and you’ll be sent prepaid vouchers to give to your newsagent in exchange for your newspapers. ‘Offer ends Jan 31’, it informed readers. However the offer was still open in March and promoted in every issue with a full-page or halfpage advert (and sometimes both) stating ‘Offer ends 31st May’. In the 29th May issue editor Gavin Thompson wrote about the design changes just introduced in anticipation of the paper’s 160th anniversary on the 1st June and reminded readers that ‘our 40 per cent off subscription offer ends on Thursday’.

Friday’s issue contained two surprises. One was a facsimile of the very first issue – a four-page broadsheet dated 1st June 1858 and costing one old penny – but because its size had been reduced to fit today’s tabloid format the print was extremely difficult to decipher even with reading glasses and a magnifying glass. It was a nice idea that turned out to be something of a disappointment. The other surprise was a half-page advert tempting readers to ‘Subscribe and save! Offer ends June 30th’. But the surprise didn’t end there, for a close inspection of the new advert revealed that it was inviting them to ‘take out a subscription to the Liverpool Echo and save 40%’. Clearly other Trinity Mirror titles are running the same promotion and the adverts are prepared centrally rather than by each individual paper. And although the advert appeared in every issue in June the careless mistake was not corrected until the 13th June issue.

It came, of course, as no surprise that when July dawned the paper was still advertising its subscription offer, which now ‘ends 31st August 2018’ and is ‘open to new customers only’.

So I’m left wondering whether the offer is seemingly never-ending because it is so successful in attracting the advance payments that subscriptions bring, or because the take-up has been so poor that the offer has to be kept open.

At the end of last month’s column I noted that the Western Daily Press had not been without production problems in May but I had no space

32 THE VISITOR August 2018

left to mention them. Here’s a belated couple of them. In the 12th May issue the crosswords, sudokus and word puzzles on page 47 were identical to those on the facing page, and the 14th May issue contained this wordy apology: ‘Due to a production error we regrettably printed a duplicate page of the puzzle section in Saturday’s Western Daily Press’ and ‘The page that was not printed due to this error is reprinted on page 19 of today’s Western Daily Press. The regular Monday puzzles are then on pages 30-31’. Aside from the fact that as the page had not been printed then its appearance now cannot be a reprint, turning to page 19 revealed not the missing page but a full-page advert for a forthcoming awards ceremony. A careful search through the entire paper failed to trace the missing page, and there was no mention of it in the following day’s paper. Clearly lost without trace or explanation. Then on 24th May the paper carried a glowing review of a show at the Bristol Hippodrome under the headline ‘Miss Saigon hits all the right notes’. A review in the 25th May issue, headlined ‘Super show takes the breath away’, turned out to be a word-for-word repeat – indeed, a reprint – of the previous day’s Miss Saigon review. If anything needs a review it’s the paper’s page make-up processes.

Finally, you might have noticed that the aforementioned Trinity Mirror, publisher of most of Visitorland’s regional and local papers, has changed its name to Reach. Is this meant to imply ‘getting there’ or simply ‘stretching out for’, I wonder, or is it simply an attempt to sound trendy.

Chronicler.

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ 1 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

on page 20

Tremeloes Dreamers Wailers Vandellas Pacemakers Whale Big Sound North Blue Notes Americans

Bonus Question Simon Dupree and the Big Sound.

It was just the name of the band; Simon Dupree as a person didn't actually exist!

Sudoku

Solution to July

PHONE - a - FIRM

Plumbing

Domestic Appliances

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: taylorsdomesticappliances@gmail.com Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

Oven Cleaning Mister Oven Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

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

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Covering Somerset and Dorset

AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Eco-Friendly Materials Used Experienced + Fully Insured Friendly Staff

Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145 www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk

DEADLINE for September Issue is Friday 10th August

Fire & Security Alarms

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM

Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES

Competitive rates for all your plumbing needs

01963 441232 07971 676111

Locksmith

ANYTIME LOCKS

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

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

24-Hour Locksmith Key Cutting and Boarding Up

MOBILE 07709 433922 PHONE 01458 835652

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

Fuel Storage Tanks

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd

Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / Metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / Moving / Disposal Above or Below Ground Tanks • 24 Hour Call-Out

Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 office@bgp-oiltanks.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk

Transport & Storage

Logs

Barn Stored Seasoned

HARDWOOD LOGS

 Seasoned Hard & Softwood Logs  Kindling – Briquettes – Coal  Various Load / Log Sizes

Check our website for COMPETITIVE PRICES ... FREE DELIVERY

Tel: 01458 251529 • Mobile: 07789 204232

Full details on our website: www.msmfirewood.co.uk

Roofing

For all your roofing requirements

Roofing

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

Bourton Roofing Co.

For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

 01747 840064

All New Work Fully Guaranteed

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

Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I M AT ES

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

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

 Picture Framing  Restoration  Large Selection of Prints and Paintings  Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel: 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

THE VISITOR August 2018 33

Classified Ads

Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP. 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.

Prize Crossword No. 382 Set by Frank Butler

1

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BP – to arrive by Friday 10th August.

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.

NAME .....................................................................................................................................................................

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

Wanted

Personal

r e D U n D A n T M O T O r M O W e r S , rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844

JUST SOMerSeT inTrODUCTiOnS. Bringing people together. Call Alison Tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk

Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5

DAVe BUYS ALL TYPeS OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables.

Daves Tools, est. 1989. Tel: 01935 428975

POSTCArDS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. Tel: Clive 01749 675456

A L L S P O rT S P r O G r A M M e S a n d books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456

Storage

S TO r A G e f o r f u r n i t u r e i n l o c k e d cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692

Passport Photographs

PASSPOrTS – passports – passports – also studio sittings, and golden weddings. Any time to suit you. easy parking opposite The Quarry inn. Tel: Graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

ADVERTISE HERE from just £5.

Tel: 01963 351256 or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

www.country-link.org.uk COUnTrY LinK SOCiAL GrOUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918

Services

HOUSeHOLD & GArDen rUBBiSH CLeAreD, old sheds / outbuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844

Catering / Mobile Bars

HArrY’S MOBiLe BArS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

Photographic Studio

PrOFeSSiOnAL PHOTOGrAPHiC STUDiO for hire in beautiful quiet location. ideal for commercial and amateur photo shoots. Fully equipped with professional lighting, softboxes, various backdrops and props.

PHOTOGrAPHY MODeLS WAnTeD. Te l 0 1 4 6 0 7 7 1 7 7 / 0 7 9 5 5 3 5 4 8 1 6 e:reDSQUAreiMAGinG@GMAiL.COM

September Issue Deadline: 10th August

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH

Any size, any condition, make or model We collect in any area  Registered Firearms Dealer

Tel: 07970 742471

Across:

7. Pursued about ten and disciplined [9] 8. Yellow resin confused bream.

[5] 10. Showed act about ancient north briton. [8] 11. Puma as cargo arranged about University. [6] 12. Against raging with loss of. extremities [4] 13. Speed units in shiny surroundings like a mountain divinity. [8] 16. Prison has silver in church.

[4] 18. Suffocate using prism otherwise in part. [7] 20. Alighting mid-flight?. [7] 22. Crystal layer includes lofty.

[4] 24. Arrange AI screen to make more. [8] 26. Name changed for ending.

[4] 29. Mendip to loom. [6] 30. Tear a rum about in part of a motor. [8] 31. Glean mixture for nurse. [5] 32. Some vegetables speak for their growth. [9]

4. Repairing finish in Chinese dynasty. [7] 5. Bude mash mixed when waylaid. [8] 6. Ring peals in order to be falling back. [9] 9. Swindle Samuel (about 100!). [4] 14. Eye Llandudno to find a scream. [4] 15. Result of change (repair me in insect). [9] 17. Faculty star-turn. [4] 19. Aimed at great Ted in confusion. [8] 21. Frightening, rang mail to change. [8] 23. Ate ears puts in gas. [7] 25. Tots. [4] 27. Broken teaset property. [6] 28. Repeated practice, physician unwell. [5]

Solution to Crossword 381

Down:

1. There can be a mixed digit.

[5] 2. Requesting like a monarch.

[6] 3. Seen cent arranged to condemn. [8] 34 THE VISITOR August 2018

The Winner of our July Crossword Was Annie Creegan of Barrington who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Mr Oven.