The Visitor Magazine Issue 430 September 2019

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Issue 430 September 2019

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In Passing ...

Y

ou can tell that it’s August. After being parched by July’s record high temperatures my garden is now waterlogged by days of relentless rain. The wind has flattened the gladioli, the birds have eaten the raspberries and the farmers’ hedgetrimmers have had the blackberries. The junk mail is full of Christmas gift brochures and the hotels and restaurants are already advertising their Christmas menus. It’s still summer, for goodness sake.

The older I get the faster the time seems to fly by – and the commercial interests seem hellbent on making it fly even faster.

And to what purpose? Thanks to Bernard Matthews and his ilk we can now gobble turkey at any time of year. The greetings card manufacturers have filled the racks with cards to celebrate every conceivable occasion, from conceiving to passing the driving test, moving house and retiring from work. What’s so special about Christmas that it warrants sending even more cards, unless you are one of the small minority of the population who is a signedup Christian? If the media hype is to be believed, we would be better off exchanging e.mails to prove we are still alive and can remember the names and addresses of distant relatives and halfforgotten acquaintances from years gone by.

Today I took a gentle stroll in my corner of Visitorland’s beautiful countryside.

Then I prepared and enjoyed a tasty meal before pottering in the garden and finally flopping into a deckchair with a book and a glass of wine and nodding off in the warmth of the sun. It’s called ‘living for today’ and I heartily recommend it. A few more days like today and the garden will have dried out. I’ll stake up the gladioli tomorrow and they’ll soon look half-decent again. I don’t begrudge the birds a share of my soft fruit, and it’s always a delight to watch their antics in the garden. And with a little gentle persuasion I’m sure my farmer neighbour will leave a few

hedges untrimmed for those of us who want to enjoy the wild autumn fruits in pies or wine.

The weather can’t wholly spoil Visitorland’s summer pleasures – the village fêtes and shows, the sports, the outings, the barbecues, the fresh-picked fruit and vegetables, the company of good friends simply sitting in the garden and chatting. And yet to come is the long autumn. The days are already growing shorter as we head into September – a sure sign that the ‘season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’ is just around the corner, bringing its own set of pleasures including Visitorland’s greatest free attraction, our traditional carnivals.

Life is much too short to wish it away.

I’m taking it slowly, making the most of every day, and I’ll start thinking about Christmas on 1st December.

NN.

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October Issue published Thursday 26th September - Deadline Monday 16th September

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG

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

Editor Max Dunion Advertising Julie Crowe

Managing Director Helen Dunion

© The Visitor Ltd. 2019

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

CONTENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 34 ANTIQUES - 26

CROSSWORD - 34 GARDENING - 30 HAM HILL - 20

HOBBIES & PASTIMES - 16 HOUSE & HOME - 22 LEISURE - 21

LOOKING GOOD - 18

MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 4 MOTORING - 15 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.

MUSIC for the MONTH - 29 NOTICE BOARD - 21 PAPERCHASE - 32

PHONE-A-FIRM - 32 PUBS - 28

SUDOKU - 21

TASTES OF THE WEST COUNTRY - 12 THEY SAY - 30

WEDDINGS - 26

WINE & DINE - 27 Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR September 2019 3

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Somerset Art Workscelebrating 25 years of Somerset Art Weeks

This year marks the Silver Anniversary of Somerset Art Weeks with the first event in 1994 featuring 160 venues and artists, art groups, organisations and oneoff exhibitions all taking part. It is now the largest visual arts

4 THE VISITOR September 2019

event in the county. Art Weeks has evolved since 1994 with the essence of art at the heart of Somerset, investing in the arts community and enriching lives.

Somerset Art Weeks Festival runs from 21 September - 6 October and will host a diverse programme of inspiring art exhibitions, workshops, talks, films and installations in over 130 locations across Somerset, alongside exciting new commissions, group shows and education projects involving over 300 artists.

Festival year differs to the Open Studios year as it enables audiences to engage with group shows and exhibitions in new, exciting and unexpected ways.

There’s a wide range of venues showing a variety of art for different tastes, with many venues choosing to show work around the Silver theme. South Somerset is one of the largest regions on the arts trail and has plenty to see: There are many venues in South Somerset featuring SAW Member’s work as well as a wealth of SAW- supported projects, bursaries and commissions across the county.

Exhibitions and projects to look out for include: A special series of commissions, ‘County of Contrasts’, which

explore the enigmatic elements and hidden stories of the County through site specific work - new artistic approaches connecting with Festival visitors in unexpected ways ● A SAW Craft Residency at Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury with new work by Emilie Taylor, celebrating craftsmanship in Somerset and beyond ● Five Creative Pathway Bursaries, supporting emerging artists to develop and show their work ● New for this year; additional Project Development Bursaries for Artists, supporting mid-career artists to develop their ideas and ambitions ● SAW’s Education programme with resources for schools and colleges to plan Art Weeks visits.

There will also be Family-Friendly activities and the Family-Friendly Finale weekend ● Workshops, talks and guided visits - part of a special Silver Anniversary Events Programme For more information and to start planning your visits, pick up your FREE GUIDE from galleries, museums, libraries and tourist information centres as well as selected outlets and other cultural venues or visit: somerset artworks.org.uk.

Count and Countess de Salis will welcome visitors to Yarlington House on Sunday 8th September.

Somerset Sight’s country house car boot sale at Yarlington House, Sunday 8th September

Somerset Sight is the local independent charity supporting blind and visually impaired people all over Somerset. There are estimated to be 23,000 people living with visual impairment in Somerset. The organisation provides practical and emotional support to enable visually impaired people to live full and independent lives despite sight loss.

Their Services include: A Volunteer Befriending service, Mobile Advice Service, Activities and Socials, Living with Sight Loss courses, Emotional Support and much more.

They couldn’t do the work they do without their team of over 300 Volunteers, and at the beginning

Mentioned in

Dispatches of June they were honoured with The Queens Award for Voluntary Service, thanks to the outstanding contribution the Volunteers have made to the local Community.

Sunday 8th September brings Somerset Sight’s country house car boot sale at the beautiful Yarlington House, Wincanton.

Count and Countess Charles de Salis, Patrons of Somerset Sight, kindly hold this much-loved event to raise funds so Somerset Sight can continue its great work across the County.

The sale opens at 8.30am with early bird entry £5 and £3 from 9.30am. Pitches are booked by prior arrangement only for £35, please contact Holly on 01823 366147 or holly.sutton@somerset sight.org.uk for more information or to book.

If you would like more information about Somerset Sight please visit our website, www.somersetsight.org.uk.

South West building firm cycles from Lands End to John O’Groats to help end homelessness for Crisis UK

Employees from two Somerset companies are cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats to do their bit to help end homelessness in the UK, supporting the charity Crisis UK. The team was to consist of Gervase Evans, Master Joiner at DIY Doctor and Charles Dowson, Director at both DIY Doctor and Foundations Up, however sadly Gervase has had to postpone his attempt until next year due to illness.

The challenge started on Thursday 22nd August in Lands End and will eventually arrive in John O’Groats 10 days later on Sunday 1st September, having cycled over 950 miles. The second night was spent in Wells, before cycling on north through North Somerset and Bristol. For more information about the route and

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progress during the challenge, please see the DIY Doctor website and social media.

The idea was conceived at the joint DIY Doctor and Foundations Up Christmas party last year; DIY Doctor Ltd is the leading home improvement website that operates from Frome, Somerset and it’s building arm, Foundations Up Construction Ltd, who provide a wide range of building services across Somerset, Bath and Bristol.

Gervase announced that he was going to build a bamboo bike and cycle it from Lands End to John O’Groats. In support, Charles offered to join him (on a normal bike) if Gervase would go through with the challenge. Bike building and training began in earnest this year.

Sadly Gervase has recently been diagnosed with Bowel Cancer so has had to drop out of this year to receive treatment.

Thankfully he caught it early and is responding well to treatment, so we hope will lead another challenge next year. So close to the event, Charles is continuing this year and is riding in aid of the charity Crisis UK. Crisis, is most famous for giving away Christmas dinners for homeless people. Over the festive period they take in people and give them a hearty meal, showers and a bed for the night.

They also provide access to health care professionals and advice about how to access benefits and housing. They even offer clean clothes and anything else that makes life a little easier. They also operate centres all around the country to assist anyone who finds themselves without a home get help all year round.

DIY Doctor and Foundations Up focus on helping people making their homes more comfortable, they feel it is important to stop and consider people who don’t have a home at all. It is easy to forget that there are people that are not as lucky as we are especially when you are improving homes for a living.

Charles Dowson, Director at DIY Doctor and Foundations Up

Mentioned in

Dispatches explains why they are doing the challenge, ‘It started as a bit of fun and a challenge to ride the length of the country, but while we are doing it there is a great opportunity to raise awareness and some money for a great cause. Every penny we can raise, will help to make each gruelling mile a little less painful!’

Should you want to make a donation it is possible at the

website and all donations will be extremely gratefully received. https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ diydoctorfoundationsup.

Peter Hayes & Benedict Leach Exhibition of ceramic sculpture and black and white photography: 10th August - 29th October 2019 John Leach Gallery at Muchelney Pottery

John Leach Gallery are delighted to welcome Peter and Benedict back to the gallery for a brand new exhibition.

Peter Hayes - Ceramic Sculpture 'I have always been interested in the history of sculpture – why and how ‘things’ are made. This

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8 THE VISITOR September 2019

interest was extended after I spent several years travelling through Africa working with various tribes and being intrigued how, with limited technology and basic tools, they were able to get such exquisite, beautiful surfaces.

I found the same inherent skills in India, Nepal, Japan and New Mexico. I tried to adopt the ideas picked up from my travels in my own work.

I have been working on large scale forms which I have placed in the landscape. My main aim is that the work should not compete with the landscape, but evolve within the environment. With the elements of time and erosion, the individual piece takes on its own developing surface.

Recently, one of these large commissions has taken me to India. My client suggested I make

it on site. Now I have discovered Udaipur in Rajasthan. This has introduced me to other craftsmen and enabled me to work with a range of different materials, such as glass, bronze, marble, stone and Damascus steel.

I find it joyful to work with many different materials. Each has its own character, its own limits, its own tolerance – some materials fight back, some play the game.

Finally I think it’s the material that is in charge and it will only let you make what it wants. It is my job to push it to its limits and somehow an equilibrium is made between maker and material.'

Benedict Leach - Photography 'I have always loved black and white photography. Whilst my family snapped their holiday shots I was always looking for that little

Visit Peter Hayes & Benedict Leach Exhibition of ceramic sculpture and black and white photography: 10th August - 29th October 2019, John Leach Gallery at Muchelney Pottery.

bit more. The inky blacks of a Bill Brandt, the tonal qualities of James Ravillious’ Devon countryside and the stark life and death depicted by Don McCullin.

These are some of the aspects of photography that attract me. For me, the narrative of a photo is less about who is in it and more about how light and texture capture the atmosphere of a moment. With black and white photography the

message is straightforward and immediate, easy to comprehend.

By concentrating on the range of tones from velvety blacks to light strewn whites an image takes on a textural quality which is visually alluring.'

The gallery is open Tuesday Saturday, 10-1, 2-4.

Muchelney Pottery, Muchelney, Nr. Langport TA10 0DW. www.johnleachpottery.co.uk.

9 THE VISITOR September 2019

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Somerset Wildlife Trust launches urgent appeal to purchase vital land at Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve

Somerset Wildlife Trust has launched an urgent appeal to help buy and restore a crucial 11 acre piece of land next to its internationally important Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve in the Avalon Marshes.

Peat extraction on land has come to an end, which now represents a once in a lifetime opportunity for the Trust to secure the longerterm future of this important wetland site by restoring and

connecting the piece of land to its existing reserve. In doing so, it will be able to stabilise and futureproof water levels, which is vital for the reserve’s myriad of fragile habitats, if they are to continue to protect the rare wildlife that call them home.

It has until October to raise the remaining £60,000 which is needed to buy and restore the land.

Somerset Wildlife Trust was the first conservation organisation to buy land in the Avalon Marshes in 1970, and begin creating the wetlands for which the area is now well known – which attracts many thousands of visitors each year from Somerset, the UK and internationally. The transformed landscape supports some of the county’s most iconic wildlife such as the Bittern, Great White Egret and European eels, alongside critically endangered plants such as the incredible Round-leaved Sundew.

Water is the lifeblood of Westhay Moor. Controlling the new piece of land will literally transform the reserve and secure a more robust future in the face of climate emergency.

To date, extraction equipment has pumped water away from the area in order to extract the peat, causing water to then drain out of the Trust’s adjacent reserve into the void left after the peat was removed. This ‘plughole’ at the edge of their reserve has meant the Trust has relied on diesel pumps to continuously pump water into the lowland acid mire, wet woodland and other vital habitats, in order to keep them at the right water level.

With this piece of land under the Trust’s ownership, Westhay’s boundaries in the south west corner can be raised to hold water on the reserve, improving hydrology and water stability

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Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve.

Photo: Guy Edwardes 2020 Vision.

across the entire area. It can then be controlled by more sustainable methods, such as gravity draining and evaporation, rather than relying on diesel pumps.

Keeping this entire area wet has the added benefit of retaining more carbon in the ground, so has a potentially wider positive impact for people. Peat is the single biggest store of carbon in the UK, storing the equivalent of 20 years of all UK carbon dioxide emissions and keeping it out of the atmosphere.

Georgia Stokes, CEO of Somerset Wildlife Trust says ‘Westhay Moor is a really significant place for a whole variety of wildlife, and a fantastic testament to almost 50 years’ of dedicated work by our staff and volunteers. It really shows how wildlife can return if given the right conditions to thrive. The stakes are high; with biodiversity declining globally and in Somerset.’

To find out more and donate to this urgent appeal, visit www.somersetwildlife. org/westhayappeal, call 01823 652429 or send a cheque made payable to Somerset Wildlife Trust to 34 Wellington Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5AW. Thank you for your support.

Happy Cats at Home

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Happy Cats at Home owner Samantha has had non-pedigree cats in her life since she was born and has continued to own cats all her life. ‘I had my first pedigree cat when I was 17 years old, a beautiful Havana named Ching, closely followed by 2 Siamese. I started out on the road of becoming a breeder of Oriental cats and have over 40 years of experience in breeding and caring for my furry friends.

My experience with cats is endless’, Samantha says. If your

cat needs medication administered, she can do this. If your cat is on a special diet, she will follow your instructions.

The whole point of ‘Happy Cats at Home’ is that nothing changes in the cats’ routine while you are away from home. Samantha’s services are tailored to you & your cats needs.

Isle Valley Vets strongly recommend regular parasite preventative treatment

The staff at Isle Valley Vets strongly recommend regular parasite preventative treatment.

They stock a wide variety of Veterinary licensed parasite control treatments. Their team of veterinary nurses are able to discuss with you the best product for your pets requirements from tapeworm control to tick protection, spot on treatments to tasty chews!

Isle Valley Vets are pleased to offer their popular worming service to clients. They are able to post out flea and worm preventative treatment on a 3 monthly basis with just a small additional cost to cover the postage. You never have to worry about forgetting to treat your pet again - leave it to them! For more information please phone either of their small animal surgeries.

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THE VISITOR September 2019 11

TASTES of the WEST COUNTRY Brown and Forrest

Brown and Forrest are hosting another of their wonderful Open Days on Saturday 21st September, from 10am to 4pm.

The Open Day is a great opportunity to delve into the world of the renowned smokery, which supplies names such as Fortnum & Mason and Mitch Tonks just to name a couple, and learn how all the wonderful products that Brown and Forrest offer become so delightfully delicious.

If you have never visited Brown and Forrest before, this is the perfect opportunity for a great day out to Hambridge on the beautiful Somerset Levels. The day includes tours around the smokery with a glass of wine and plenty of tasty morsels along the way as you get to sample a wide variety of Brown and Forrest products. Once you have a taste of what’s to offer, you¹re going to want more! The restaurant will be open throughout the day, although it is advisable to book a table in advance to avoid any

disappointment. If you can¹t make it to the Open Day, don¹t worry, the restaurant and shop are open all year round. Check the website for opening times and visit the online shop to have some of your favourite Brown and Forrest products delivered directly to your door.

For more information, call 01458 250875 or visit www.brownandforrest.co.uk.

Dining al fresco at Buttercross Tearooms, Somerton.

Andrew Barclay Traditional Family Butcher at 45 High Street, Wincanton.

THE VISITOR September 2019 13

TASTES of the WEST COUNTRY

Williams Supermarket, Somerton IMPORTANT CUSTOMER NOTICE

‘I am pleased to announce that Williams is to become a Co-op Franchise Store. The new store will open on 24 October as Somerton’s Co-op. The transformation will entail a major shop refit and please accept my apologies for any inconvenience caused in the coming weeks. The new store will still be owned by Richard & Nicky Williams and all their staff

will still be there to welcome you.

Williams has always prided itself on supplying quality West Country products and some of these will still be available in the new store.

The Co-op has very strong links to the local community and through the Co-op Membership Card, Somerton’s Co-op will be raising funds for many local charities. I thank you for your continuing support and we look forward to welcoming you into your new Somerton’s Co-op’.

Richard Williams, August 2019.

GOULD & SONS FAMILY BUTCHER

NORTH STREET, MARTOCK, SOMERSET TA12 6EH. TEL: 01935 822671

Pork, Lamb, Beef & Chickens from farms in the local area.

Good selections of sausages & burgers. Home cooked meats, pies, faggots, award winning cheeses.

Fresh fruit and vegetables from locally sourced suppliers.

Richard of Gould & Sons Family Butchers on North Street, Martock.

Open: Tue - Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm, Sat: 8.30am - 12.30pm

Galhampton Country Store now sell freshly baked bread from The Lovington Bakery on Saturdays – orders taken in advance or just call in.

14 THE VISITOR September 2019

MOTORING VINTAGE Motorcycling

WE MOTORCYCLISTS are becoming (perhaps that should read 'have become') a much older group of people and a much softer group of people. I say this because a rainy and windy day in July 2018 saw just 4 hardy souls go out on the Jeff Clew Memorial Run. This July saw a sunny and dry day and no less than 54 entrants turned up for the 10th running of this event.

Motorcycling is now a leisure activity and very seldom a 'mustdo' item on the agenda. Virtually gone is the time when the only transport available to a young man was his motorcycle, and that transport served to go to and from work and any other usage he could afford to do. No choice then if the weather was inclement he still had to make those journeys.

Now of course nearly all motorcycling is done for pure pleasure. Riding in heavy rain or in gale force winds or in sub-zero temperatures ceased to be a pleasurable activity for me many years ago, so why should I do it.

Having said that I do not consider myself to be a fair weather rider.

I do go out in the rain, and sometimes when out I get caught in rain showers (as happens to us all from time to time) then I have no complaints and once I am thoroughly wet through then I enjoy the ride as always.

Returning to this year's Jeff Clew Memorial Run it went ahead

as planned from the Haynes International Motor Museum at Sparkford. A long and a short route meant that all tastes and ages of machines could be catered for. Suitable refreshment arrangements on both routes meant a rest from riding was possible for those who wished it.

Alison Clew (Jeff's daughter) travelled down from Derbyshire to spectate and was on hand to give out the prizes at the conclusion. A rewarding day was had by all and the only blemish being three breakdowns during the morning.

My picture this month was taken at the Jeff Clew Memorial Run. It shows two riders preparing for the start outside the front of the museum. Both Somerset members the man nearest the camera is Dave Atterbury with his 1921 Douglas and the other is Colin Bentham with his 1925 Scott. Both bikes are not super shiny but in a wellused and working condition which is just as they should be. Both bikes get used very regularly and that is just the purpose for which they were made and bought in the first place.

Events continue as always and September looks very busy. The Somerset Section start with their club night at Cossington on the 5th when they have a guest speaker. Next on the 8th will be the West Somerset Run which starts at Rumwell Farm Shop near Taunton. On the 20/23rd will be the Cornish Weekend so buckets and spades ready for a ride to the sharp end of the

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Dave Atterbury with his 1921 Douglas and Colin Bentham with his 1925 Scott at the start of the Jeff Clew Memorial Run.

Westcountry. Lastly on the 26th will be the Morning Meet back at Sweets Tea Rooms near Wedmore. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section start September with Roger's Runaround from Henstridge on the 1st. Club night on the 9th is an amalgam with the Dorset Section at their HQ at Henstridge for a talk about Donald Campbell and Bluebird K7. This should be very interesting. Next on the 19th will be the Autumn Leaves Run which starts at Ansty, just over the border in Wiltshire.

The Dorset Section start their month with the Lunch Meet at Henstridge on the 4th. Club night on the 9th has been mentioned above. On the 15th will be the Last of the Summer Wine Run from Hinton St Mary and on the 18th will be a Mid Week Run from Milton Abbas. Lastly on the 28th will be the Breakfast Meet back at Henstridge. Plenty there to keep you occupied.

I have a small collection of bikes and recently I was asked 'Why do you need so many bikes, after all

you can only ride one at once'. I have been asked this same question many times before and usually passed it off by a flippant answer. But this time I gave the matter some serious thought. I worked it out that I needed a Vintage machine to take part in the specialised events, I also needed a later machine for those events which have a greater mileage involved, I also needed a later (semi modern) machine that I thought would be reliable and easy to use for general work. So why do I keep a garage full of other machines when three is enough and for some people to have three machines is nothing short of sheer indulgence.

I still do not have a definitive answer except that I enjoy looking at them and enjoy riding all of them in turn. In truth I could select just one Vintage machine which is capable of meeting all the motorcycling needs I have.

But would not life be rather dull if we had to justify all such things using pure logic.

Rod Hann.

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THE VISITOR September 2019 15

Yandles Autumn Wood Working Show 6th and 7th September 2019

The Yandles Show is being held on the 6th and 7th of September.

They are now holding the Show once a year and it is one of the Country’s longest running Woodworking Shows, held in a unique venue – a traditional working Sawmill.

Visitors will see trade stands from many of the UK’s leading

woodworking brands, including Record Power, Robert Sorby, Kreg, Charnwood and Chestnut.

New to this year’s show will be brands such as Laguna, Easy Wood Tools and Razertip.

The Show will also be hosting one of their largest line ups of demonstrators, to include Woodturners such as Jay Hergett, Martin Saban-Smith, Colin Simpson and Liz Kent.

Scroll Saw demonstrations,

pyrography, routing, carving and broom making are just some of the crafts which will be on display. There will also, for the first time, be a Makers Corner attracting bloggers from around the world.

As always, the Yandles Show will have the largest selection of timber on sale to be found at any similar event anywhere in Europe. In fact, this year it is anticipated that Yandles will

have in the region of half a million pounds worth of timber available for customers to select, all with special show reductions.

With free entry and parking as well as a craft exhibition, hobbies shop with demonstrations and refreshment marquee and café, Yandles Show offers a great day out for everyone and a chance to see the latest products available in the Woodworking world, many with special show deals.

Check out their website for further show information: Yandles.co.uk. All at, Hurst Works, Martock, Somerset TA12 6JU Telephone 01935 822207.

Wessex Music, Sherborne

Demonstrations will be a major attraction at the Yandles Woodworking Show 2019 which takes place on the 6th & 7th September.

16 THE VISITOR September 2019

Wessex Music in Sherborne have been supporting local musicians for over 17 years and in that time have had a blast, but all good things must come to an end. Gary and Tim have decided to retire from retail at the end of February 2020.

With that in mind they have a

huge stock of instruments and accessories to sell at bargain prices. All new items are covered by manufacturers warranty with some as low as trade price plus VAT. If you have always wanted to play a musical instrument this may well be your best chance to do it at a realistic price. Bargains are only available in-store and won't be advertised on the website so visit Wessex Music.

Crispin Crafts, Street

Crispin Crafts is a friendly, family run business stocking a large variety of Haberdashery, yarn, fabric and crafting items from leading brands.

Having been in the business for so long, Sue and Trev have seen crafting fashions come and go and it is great to see the resurgence of crochet and knitting as the manufacturers of knitting yarns launch new and exciting

Cripsin Crafts, Street.

products. Crispin Crafts' new DMC (stranded threads) stand now stocks the 35 new colours, plus metallic, satin and variation threads! This comes just in time for the upturn in embroidery and cross stitch. New stock includes James C. Brett 'Marble' knitting yarn in lovely new autumn colours.

The quilters will be pleased to know that they are now stocking ‘Stitch It’ 80/20 wadding and a new selection of Jelly Rolls and Fat Quarters.

The shop at 8 Farm Road, Street, BA16 0BJ is open Monday to Saturday 9am till 4.30pm. Visit their website: www.crispin crafts.co.uk or join their Facebook page for further information.

J Horsey Music Tuition, Somerton

Mr Joshua W Horsey BA (Hons), PGDE, MISM is the Proprietor of J Horsey Music Tuition. He set up his own music teaching business called J Horsey Guitar Tuition in 2011 whilst studying his BA (Hons) Music in Colchester, Essex and then suspended his private tuition to train as a secondary school classroom teacher.

After being both a Teacher of music and then Head of Music at a Grammar School he has decided

Pictured right: Joshua Horsey of J Horsey Music Tuition in his purpose built studio, Somerton.

to relaunch J Horsey Music Tuition. He now teaches out of a purpose built Music Teaching and Composition Studio in Somerton, Somerset. As well as offering tailored and personalised music tuition, performance and vocal technique training, he also offers his services as a freelance Composer and Arranger of music.

CRAFT CREATIONS

BLANK CARDS

With or without apertures

and

3 PACKS FOR THE PRICE OF 2 LOWEST PRICE PACK FREE

High St, GILLINGHAM 01747 824050 email: scenes2@aol.com

THE VISITOR September 2019 17

Family Health with Jenna Evans Herbal Glossary

We’ve recently introduced a wonderful selection of dried herbs instore at Ceres. So we’re going to take a break from the Q&A for a few months while we take a tour of these herbal healers.

Today we’re going to focus on a glossary of herbal terminology.

You’ll see lots of words I’ll be using over the next few months, so think of this as your cut out and keep guide to herby lingo!

Adaptogen – A term you’ll see me use a lot. Basically, these herbs help our bodies adapt to stress, be that physical, mental or emotional.

By supporting the endocrine system, they elicit a broad range of effects and are one of the most important groups of herbs.

Alterative – These were once known as ‘blood cleansers’ and are often found in remedies for the lymph and skin. Useful for chronic conditions. Depurative is a similar term used for cleansing and detoxifying remedies.

Analgesics & Anodynes – Use for the reduction of pain.

Anthelmintic – These herbs are used to destroy/expel worms and parasites. They may also be called vermifuges or vermicides.

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

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18 THE VISITOR September 2019

Antibilious – Used for the excessive secretion of bile which can lead to nausea and stomach ache.

Antiemetic – Used to treat nausea and vomiting.

Antilithic – Used to prevent the treatment of stones in organs such as the bladder and kidneys.

Antipyretic – For reducing fever by inducing, not suppressing, perspiration. Febrifuge and refrigerant may also be used.

Antitussive – Help to alleviate coughs.

Aperient – A gentle laxative.

Astringent – These herbs cause a contraction in the tissues which can be useful to stop bleeding and discharges such as mucus.

Balsam – From resinous herbal material.

Bitter – Often used as tonics, especially for digestion and immunity. Can be extremely bitter to take and are highly valued.

Calmative – Mild sedatives and calming herbs.

Carminative – Calming for the digestive system. Often used to relieve bloating and gas, encouraging normal peristalsis.

Cathartics – To promote a bowel movement. May be gentle in action (laxative) or strong (purgative).

Cholagogue/Choleretic – Stimulate the flow of bile from the gall bladder.

Demulcent – This group helps to soothe, calm inflammation and protect the tissues. You will often hear the terms urinary/respiratory/digestive demulcent.

Diaphoretic – Used to actively promote perspiration. Used to clear fevers and chills as well as for inflammation in the joints and skin.

Diuretic – Used to increase the production and elimination of urine.

Emetic – Used to induce vomiting.

Emmenagogue – Bring about menstruation.

Emollient – Used externally to soothe and nourish the skin.

Expectorant – Helpful for clearing mucus from the respiratory system.

Galactagogue – Used to promote the production of milk during breast feeding.

Haemostatic – Used to stop bleeding.

Hepatic – A general term for herbs that are supportive of liver function.

Hypnotic - Sleep inducing.

Hypoglycaemic – Lower blood sugar.

Hypotensive – Lower blood pressure.

Lithotriptic – Herbs that are

used to dissolve stones in the kidneys or bladder.

Mucilage or Mucilaginous – Used to soothe inflammation, especially in the mucus membranes.

Nervine – Used to relieve tension and soothe the nervous system.

Parturient – Used to induce labour.

Sialagogue – Herbs used to promote the flow of saliva.

Soporific – Sedatives used to promote sleep.

Stimulant – Used to increase activity in a particular organ or system.

Stomachic – Stimulate digestion; improve appetite; give strength and tone to the stomach.

Styptic – Astringents used to stop bleeding.

Tonic – Often used in relation to a particular body system e.g. urinary or cardiovascular to indicate they have an affinity to help strengthen that area of the body. Tonic may also be prefixed with stimulating, nutritive or relaxing to give an indication of how they act upon the tissues.

Thymoleptic – Energising on an emotional or mental level.

Vulnerary – Wound healers.

Often used in poultices.

So there you have it, you’re now an expert on herbal terminology!

Join me next month as we start our A-Z for common medicinal herbs.

Jenna Evans © 2019. ● Jenna is a 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.

Together We Recycle with Shirley Allum Fashions & Lingerie of Shaftesbury Preview Fashion Boutique, Wincanton

Bring colour to the winter months with the new autumn/winter collection now arriving at Preview, Wincanton. Feminine cuts, beautiful, warm colours and patterns with luxurious textures ignite the colder months, bringing excitement and flair to the forthcoming season.

Robell autumn/winter collection available at Preview Fashion Boutique, Wincanton.

Fashion Boutique Market Place • Wincanton  01963 31676

www.previewwincanton.co.uk

● Robell - Velvet from £69 Knitwear from ● Rabe ● Olsen ● Monari ● Just White Shirts

● New label Dolcezza from Canada

New to Preview this autumn are modern contemporary short padded coats from Dolcezza.

Dolcezza is a North American based company using natural fabrics in very selective patterns and prints.

Preview are stockists of many sought-after labels such as Rabe from Germany. Rabe fully washable knitwear is especially kind to your skin due to the exclusive use of non-wool fabric.

Just White Shirts from £89 are feminine, high quality designer blouses designed and manufactured for all occasions – from wearing with jeans for a clean casual look, to adding style and sophistication when matched with tailored trousers and skirts.

Amazing Woman Jeans create fabulous fitting jeans in comfortable denims in a variety of styles and a choice of 10 colours suitable for all ages and shapes.

With such a fabulous choice, there is sure to be something you’ll fall in love with. Open from 10am – 5pm Monday to Saturday.

Autumn / Winter stock arriving September

Shirley Allum of Shaftesbury are excited to share with you the latest Triumph promotion.

Take in your old bra and they’ll give you £10 off a new one. The offer runs until 31st August, so hurry!

Receive a £10 discount on any Triumph bra when you give them your old bra of any brand.

The donation and purchase of bras must be carried out on the same day.

Triumph has partnered with

Taxaid, making it as easy as possible for you to dispose of your used lingerie in a sustainable manner.

Used garments that are not used for recycling are sorted and sent to Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa.

Any funds raised from recycle value are used to help aid organizations carry out relief work.

Pop in for your free fitting with one of their certified fitters, and together help the environment.

Together we recycle.

Thank you. Shirley and the team.

A friendly and professional service is offered at Ward & Sibley, the family jewellers of Yeovil.

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil

For a prompt, reliable & friendly service AS GOOD AS NEW! Our repair section of the business is pleased to offer:

 Complete refurbishment of jewellery –

soldering charms onto bracelets, sizing rings, repairing chains, jewellery cleaning

 Watch repairs including battery replacements  Jewellery handmade to your own design  Seal, hand, and machine engraving

 Valuations for insurance and probate  Pearl and bead re-threading

CLOSED Wednesdays and Thursdays THE CASKET 103 MIDDLE STREET YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065

Car park at rear for customers while visiting the shop

THE VISITOR September 2019 19

Ham Hill Country Celebrating 20 years

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

SUNDAY LUNCH £8.95 - choice of roast Larger parties catered for

FRESH FISH Day Friday

With home-made beer batter

STEAK SPECIAL - Two 8oz Rump Steaks £19.50 Sunday to Thursday

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

Tel: 01935 881235

Harvey Stone Quarry

The Norton quarry was reopened by the Harvey family in 1982 and they have since been extracting and processing the beautiful Ham Hill Stone from their masonry works on Ham Hill, Stoke Sub Hamdon, Somerset.

The beautiful honey coloured Ham Hill Stone is a limestone that has been quarried for 1000’s of years. Ham Hill Stone, being such a superior and beautiful limestone, was a favourite choice of stone for many of the country’s finest architects and has been used for many wonderfully historic buildings across Southern England in Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Wiltshire and London.

Harvey supply and craft this unique stone for many different projects from house buildings, garden features and architectural

Montacute Service Station for all your fuel plus a well-stocked shop selling fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers, confectionery, papers, snacks and much more.

stone to bespoke masonry, flooring and fireplaces.

Feel free to call in during opening hours to discuss your upcoming projects or just to come and view the wonderful stone on site or on display in their outdoor garden and fireplace showrooms.

Rob Margetts

Rob Margetts Carpet & Flooring in Stoke Sub Hamdon has been established since 1986. Rob offers a full range of carpets, vinyls, laminates, Karndean flooring and solid wood floors.

Carpets start from just £9.99 per square metre. The best seller by far is the hardwearing 80/20 twist. A free ‘at home’ library service is available where the customer can choose their carpet in the comfort of their own home from a wide range of samples.

This is particularly useful if you are trying to match the carpet with existing colourways.

Rob Margetts Carpet & Flooring undertake both domestic and commercial premises including residential homes.

Proprietor Rob is assisted by his nephew Dave. For a friendly and efficient service give them a call.

MONTACUTE SERVICE STATION

(P. L. Warry & Sons) Montacute. Tel (01935) 822271

MURCO Fuels Quality Used Car Sales

7

O P DA EN YS

General Store & Shop: groceries, newspapers, flowers, bread, sweets, drinks, etc.

OPEN Mon - Fri 6 -7.30, Sat 6 - 6.30, Sun 9 - 5

2 High Street, Stoke-Sub-Hamdon, TA14 6PP

Tel: 01935 825505 • Mob: 07970 821097 sales@rmcarpets.co.uk • www.rmcarpets.co.uk

Pictured right: Hopes B&B on Little Street, Norton-Sub-Hamdon has beautiful gardens and a heated indoor pool at reasonable rates.

20 THE VISITOR September 2019

September Notice Board DRAYTON

FLAXDRAYTON WORKSHOPS Open Day. Saturday 21st September 11.00am - 4.00pm, FREE ENTRY! Join us at our Open Day and visit the amazing arts and social enterprise hub in this historic Victorian farmyard: local artisan food and cider tasting and sales, demonstrations and exhibitions, art and craft workshops, BODYSMART fitness, photography, jewellery, joinery, metal gaming miniatures, antiques, ‘Club Tropicale’ games and play, refreshments (profits to charity), live music.

Flaxdrayton Farm, Drayton, South Petherton TA13 5LR - 1/2 mile from A303. www. flaxdrayton.co.uk, 01460 241062.

HENSTRIDGE

SATURDAY 5TH October. Avon and Somerset Constabulary Male Voice choir concert at St Nicholas Church, 7pm. Tickets £8 from 01963 362041.

The Gartell Light Railway

The narrow gauge Gartell Light Railway is having its next Open Day on Sunday 29th of September. The railway will be open from 09.30 until 16.30 and will be signposted on the A357 between Henstridge and Templecombe.

There is ample free parking and the Pines Suite will be serving breakfasts from 09.30.

As well as breakfasts, snacks are available together with the usual facilities. There is also a shop selling books, models and souvenirs.

The first train leaves Common

Complete Framing Service Available

The narrow gauge Gartell Light Railway is having its next Open Day on Sunday 29th of September.

Lane at 10.30 then at 25-minute intervals until the last one at 16.20. Your ticket is valid on all three trains, with 2 steam locos and one diesel.

The intense timetable includes reversals at the ends of the line at Park Lane and Tower View,

Lakeside Shade - Limited edition giclee print

by Alexander Baynes. Edition size 150, Image size 65cm x 50cm, mounted and framed with a square oak moulding. £325.00

with two simultaneous departures at Pinesway Junction on every 35 minute trip. Part of the trip is along the old Somerset and Dorset railway, which ram from Bath to Bournemouth until it closed in 1966. Two of the trains can accommodate wheelchairs- just ask the friendly staff and they will help.

As the trains are half full-size they are regrettably unable to carry large dogs. Please see the advertisement for details or go online at newglr.weebly.com.

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

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

MARTOCK

THE END OF World War 1 and its Aftermath. A fascinating talk by historian and author who served in the Royal Tank Regiment, Dr Rodney Atwood: The talk covers major WWI battles and political upheaval during and after WWI; the USA’s impact during and post-war; and the actions that led to WWII. Date: 12th September 2019 at Martock Church. Time: 19:30 hrs.

Admission: No charge but there will be a retiring collection for service charities. Ample parking at The George, opposite the church and at the nearby Martock Surgery. www. martockonline.co.uk/events.

TEMPLECOMBE

TEMPLECOMBE ART Exhibition 5th & 6th October Templecombe Village Hall 10am -5pm. Free admission, refreshments available. Proceeds in aid of The Alzheimers Society.

ADVERTISE your October event here from just £5 for 20 words!

(30p per additional word). Send event details by 16th September to: The Visitor Notice Board, PO Box 1, Castle Cary, BA7 7BP or email: info@ thevisitor magazine.co.uk.

By The Lake by Alexander Baynes.

Edition size 150, Image size 65cm x 50cm, mounted and framed with a square oak moulding. Priced at £325.00 and available at Martock Gallery, Martock.

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

By John Osborne ★ Answers can be found on page 32

1) Name the Beatles album that was released on September 26th, 50 years ago?

2) 'Pretty Flamingo', 'Mighty Quinn', 'My Name is Jack'. All 60's hits for which band?

3) Rocky Sharpe and the … ' ?

4) Who was the male superstar who sang about 'A Different Corner'?

5) What item of apparel did Pualo Nutini feel better for buying and wearing?

6) The Carpenters sang about 'Rainy days and … ' what?

7) The classic 'Baker Street' by Gerry Rafferty was released as a single in which year?

8) 'Baby I Love Your Way'. A mid-70's hit for whom?

9) Who once said that there were 'Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover'?

10) 'What's Love Got to Do With It?' asked which superstar female?

Sudoku

by

T. M.

Fill in the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers 1 to 9. Solution to August Sudoku on page 32.

Bonus question: Name the album from which the song in Q7 came from.

Question impossible One of the ladies of 'Love Unlimited' makes a phone call in the single 'Walking in the Rain (With the One I Love)' but who answers it?

Great Quotes in Music (116) I wanted to have the adoration of John Lennon but have the anonymity of Ringo Starr. I didn't want to be a frontman. I just wanted to be back there and still be a rock and roll star at the same time - Kurt Cobain

THE VISITOR September 2019 21

Hider Heating

Hider Heating, established since 1973, is an expert in the plumbing and heating sector, working with estate agents, letting agents and the general public in the Somerset area.

They offer their customers all aspects of plumbing and heating including: full central heating installation; boiler repairs and servicing; bathrooms; landlord gas safety certificates and general plumbing. Their Gas Safe registration number is 700 so you can see that they have been in the business a long time, giving you confidence that only the highest standard of workmanship is offered as standard - they also have great testimonials.

Britons Spend Over £2,000 to Fix Botch DIY Jobs Around The Home

Whilst DIY jobs may be increasingly popular, it was found that Britons have spent an average of £2,100 a year fixing DIY jobs, with the highest percent of mishaps happening when hanging wallpaper (36%), followed by putting up shelves (31%) and replacing roof tiles (29%).

For the purpose of the research, the www.Hillarys.co.uk team questioned more than 2,300 UK home-owners. Initially, all participants were asked if they prefer to do DIY jobs around the house, instead of getting tradesmen in, with two thirds (67%) admitting this is the case.

HIDER HEATING

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

Reg. No. 700

www.hiderheating.co.uk Tel: 01935 426209 • Mobile: 07836 773152 41a West Coker Road, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 2LY

22 THE VISITOR September 2019

Quote RAYSAND for £500 off your Rayburn purchase for the month of September. Delivery by end of October.

Of all participants, over half (51%) revealed they get DIY help through YouTube clips, 27% sought help through forums and 16% say they look to blogs for assistance. All participants were asked to estimate how much, if anything, they had spent fixing DIY blunders. Taking all answers into account the average answer was found to be £2,100.

72% of respondents admitted to having little idea on how much it would cost to bring in a professional for tasks they tried to complete themselves initially.

Lucy Askew, spokesperson for www.Hillarys.co.uk, commented: ‘DIY is hugely popular due to perceptions that it is a cheaper alternative to professional help.

In some cases this is true, however, the amounts spent by Britons in fixing these mistakes is vast. It is interesting to see just how much is spent remedying mistakes and hopefully it will make Britons more cautious in the future.’

Nearly 40 years of Rayburn at Sandpits Heating Centre

Sandpits Heating Centre in Curry Rivel took delivery of its first Rayburn in the early 1980’s - one of many leaps of faith the Macey family have taken over the past 50 years to stay ahead of the game in the plumbing and heating industry.

Founder Bob Macey (who started out as an apprentice plumber aged 14 and when qualified decided to go it alone in 1967) found that his biggest customer in Somerset was the farming community.

The farmers saw that the newer Rayburn technology launched in the 1980’s made sense - it was able to burn any type of solid fuel including coal, wood and peat. It could run radiators as well as heating water and cooking.

Sandpits and Rayburn have developed a strong relationship over the last 40 years and a Rayburn 680K is on constantly in the showroom, while the teashop bakes all of it’s cakes and spuds in a Rayburn 400K. Sandpits are excited to announce that Bob’s daughter-inlaw Miranda will be hosting a season of cooking demonstrations and a cookery school in the showroom. Miranda, as well as being a published cook book author, trained baker and private chef, has worked for many years in kitchens around the globe.

The demonstrations take place weekly from 9th September on Mondays and Thursdays, 11am to 2pm. The cookery school will run on the last Monday or Thursday of the month, from 10am to 2pm. Dates available are: September 23rd & 26th, October 28th & 31st, November 25th & 28th. It costs just £45 for half a day cooking, lunch is included! To book, call Sandpits on 01458 251476.

SANDPITS HEATING & HOME STORE

50 01458 251476 YEARS

www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

WOOD BURNING & MULTIFUEL STOVES AND COOKERS ● GAS & ELECTRIC FIRES ● ECO WOOD BURNERS

NEW IN FOR AUTUMN 2019 OUR LATEST RANGE OF ESSE COOKERS

● Fireplace Design & Creation ● Flue Liners & Cowls & Spare Parts ● Chimney Sweeping & Servicing ESSE 990 ELX ● Sustainably Sourced Logs ● 3-zone induction hotplate ● Gas & Coal Deliveries ● Large steel ‘piancha’ ● Slow cook oven ● Plumbing & Heating ● 30ltr electric oven ● Control panel ● 4ltr electric oven

This cooker has a little extra capacity for entertaining.

FREE COOKERY DEMONSTRATIONS every Monday and Thursday from 11am - 2pm

Miranda’s Kitchen at Sandpits Heating Centre launches a session of cookery demonstrations from:

Monday September 9th - 23rd December

We have created the perfect atmosphere for you to pop in and knead, mix, stir, taste, swap recipes and chat around the kitchen table with Cookbook author and Firehouse Chef Miranda Shearer.

Thursday 5th September from 11am to 3pm, Daniel Blewitt of Esse will host an Esse Cooking Experience Day. A great day of Esse Tips.

COOKERY SCHOOL

Cookery school will run on the last Monday or Thursday of the month, from 10am - 2pm.

Booking is essential. Dates available:

September 23rd & 26th October 28th & 31st November 25th & 28th

Cost: £45 for half a day of cooking. Lunch is included.

Our cookery school is open to everyone.

Please call Sandpits on 01458 251476 to book

OPEN HOUSE COOKERY DEMONSTRATIONS FROM MONDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2019

Showroom is open six days a week Monday - Friday 8am - 5.30pm, Saturday 8am - 1.30pm.

From Saturday 7th September 8am - 4.30pm for our winter season. High Street, Curry Rivel, Somerset TA10 0ES

Turner Windows Somerton celebrating 10 years!

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

Turner Windows Ltd are celebrating being established in Somerton for ten years, Craig Turner started the company with the help of key staff such as Anne Perry as well as 2 teams of employed fitters and a salesman Mike. Craig was a fitter made good, and has built up the company with a quality over quantity attitude, to enable their customers to have confidence when buying from them.

Turner Windows are Which?

Trusted Traders so you can be certain of receiving a qualityassured service. Further to this, Turner Windows website is full of positive feedback from very happy customers.

Proprietor Craig takes pride in being an active member of the community locally. Turner Windows are delighted to be the

main sponsors for Somerton Rugby Club.

As well as offering installations of windows, doors and conservatories, they offer straight honest advice with no false discounts.

Turner Windows have also worked on commercial projects with clients including Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford and Clark’s Village in Street, Somerset to name just a couple.

Turner Windows are Approved LEKA Warm Roof installers, a high-quality product which can transform your conservatory into a space to be enjoyed all year round. Craig noted it as one of the best warm roof conservatory products currently on the market.

They are very pleased to announce that their professional and honest services in the industry are here to stay since they have recently bought the premises at Bancombe Trading Estate. As well as being the Turner Windows office base, the premises house seven brilliant showrooms. The showrooms feature a range of different products, full size bi-fold doors to conservatory warm roofs and glass roofs, composite doors, so that customers really can try before they buy.

So why not visit them at: www.turnerwindows.co.uk to see for yourself. For trustworthy and expert advice, visit Turner Windows at Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton or call 01458 272555.

SJH Carpets

24 THE VISITOR September 2019

SJH Carpets in Wincanton offers a full measuring and fitting service on shutters and blinds, and work with Luxaflex to provide the latest designs, technology and safest window coverings available.

Their fabric department in Wincanton has an extensive fabric library stocking Prestigious Textiles and Chatsworth Fabrics, and they offer a bespoke curtain and blind service, a free measuring and estimating service and professional and helpful advice.

They also have a wonderful selection of carpets and flooring including naturals, vinyls, woods, laminates, tiles and luxury vinyl tiles (including Karndean, Moduleo and Harvey Maria).

They supply and fit Roger Oates runners, Crucial Trading floorcoverings, Rubber Flooring and all traditional carpets.

Their knowledgeable staff can assist you through the difficult selection process and help you choose the right product that best

Premier Electric Lift & Rise Recliner Chairs

Shop floor display of sofas, furniture, beds & mattresses Beverly lift & rise recliner

suits your needs. They deliver and install at a price that competes with all the national chains.

Customer satisfaction means everything to SJH, and they offer their full attention from selection through to end of installation care.

Call SJH Carpets in Wincanton on 01963 824418 and get your free estimate for your upcoming project.

Find the window dressings or flooring that perfectly matches your needs and unique personal style. Also at High Street, Tisbury and The Old Post Office, North Street, Langport.

Above: This luxury Monaco Wardrobe and many more items are available with 24 hour delivery from Fit & Furnish of Yeovil’s new second website: www.furniture2homedirect.co.uk.

Goodwood Snuggle Back

Ottoman Beds

Grace Fabric Sofa

New items in store from our new 2nd website: www.furniture2homedirect.co.uk

Sliding Wardrobes, bookcases, dining sets, desks, TV stands

24 Hour Free Delivery for Quality Home Assembly Furniture Many shop floor items TO CLEAR!

Visit our website: www.fitandfurnish.co.uk

The Old Vincent’s Showroom, Market Street, YEOVIL, BA20 1HZ  01935 412811 Email: info@fitandfurnish.co.uk DireCTionS: from Marks & Spencer head towards Court Ash Car Park and past The Pall Tavern. Showrooms 100 yards on the right.

THE VISITOR September 2019 25

Hooper’s Hat Hire of Yeovil

For hats, hatinators or fascinators visit Hooper’s Hats in Yeovil.

Sally has an extensive collection for hire and if you cannot find what you are looking for, Sally can make you something to complement your outfit to purchase.

With lots of helpful advice on offer you will find Hooper’s a pleasurable experience. Clutch bags can also be hired to match.

Sally is currently updating her website (www.hoopershats.co.uk), this is why it has been offline pop back soon and browse through her Gallery for a small sample of what is on offer, or telephone to make an appointment, on 01935 706555.

Lillies Rose, Wincanton

Lillies Rose opened at the end of May 2019, Gemma Silvester, owner, runs the business with the ‘help’ of her family but is the only trained florist at present having spent four years training at Kingston Maurwood College near Dorchester.

Lillies Rose stock a wide and varied range of fresh cut flowers priced by the stem to cater for every occasion, from a small selection to fill a vase at home, funeral tributes, a birthday bouquet or basket, something to celebrate a new arrival, to a wedding - be it buttonholes or corsages for guests to the full

wedding service including full venue flowers, bridal party, groom and best mans flowers and anything else in between, quirky as you like or traditional.

Everything can be delivered with delivery in Wincanton and surrounding local areas being free, small charges apply elsewhere, ask at the time of ordering.

Everything is tailored to each budget, big or small Gemma can work to your specifications to provide you with fitting flowers whatever your occasion.

Lillies Rose also stock a large range of both indoor and outdoor plants. Some of the usual and a lot of the more unusual can be found around the shop, these can be gift wrapped as pressies even if they’re just for you. Every purchase of £5 or over earns the customer an entry into the monthly raffle. Drawn at random at the end of each month, one lucky customer will win a bouquet worth £30. Lillies Rose also offer an eflorist service where customers can send flowers anywhere in the country.

Pop in and see Gemma to order or discuss your needs, anything not in stock can usually be sourced. They are happy to order flowers and plants in for you just give as much notice as you can before your event. You can also telephone or email as well as catching up on the latest on Facebook or Instagram.

Hooper’s Hat Hire YEOVIL

01935 706555 • www.hoopershats.co.uk

Lillies Rose ● Fully Qualified Florist ● Fresh Flowers for all occasions ● Delivery available - including same day ● Bouquets, Floral Arrangements, Plants ● Eflorist available 1 High Street, Wincanton lilliesRose1@outlook.com

26 THE VISITOR September 2019

Tel: 01963 34992

Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Antiques Fairs

•

Chasty Cottage Antiques

•

Saturday 28th September Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1

Future Dates: Saturday 26th October 01963 370986

www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

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.

John Hamblin

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”

Somerset County Show Wines

FOR ME, ONE OF THE joys of being immersed in the hospitality industry is the opportunity it provides me with to inspire and educate others.

Flushed with yet another success for my Wine & Spirit Education Trust students, who all passed their Level 2 Wines & Spirit examination with flying colours, one achieving a very impressive 98%, I have also been busy judging Taste of the West entrants, inspecting a range of establishments across the county.

Next on the horizon is the new Somerset County Show, being held at Taunton Racecourse on 21st and 22nd September. I have been asked to select wines to accompany the delicious recipes being prepared by celebrity chefs, including Lesley Waters, Olivier Certain and Tim Zekke in the demonstration kitchen.

Food and wine pairing can be tricky; much depends on how a dish is prepared. The general guideline is to either complement or contrast key flavours, whilst ensuring that the chosen wine, whilst standing up well to big, bold flavours, is not so powerful that it dominates more delicate dishes.

My aim in choosing these wines has been to get everyone out of their comfort zone, away from the standard Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Merlot and Shiraz pub offerings.

With the aid of Tim Pearce, who owns Tim’s Wines in South Petherton, I have selected the following to tempt your palate, with the added bonus that all of the wines will be available for tasting during the show.

LUSTAU MANZANILLA PAPIRUSA SHERRY 15% abv.

JEREZ SPAIN £17.99.

Dish: Mackerel Lustau is considered to be a top producer, and the special characteristic of this wine is that it is aged in the cool, humid, salty air of fishing town Sanlúcar de

Barrameda. Bright golden yellow, it is redolent with chamomile and sea breeze aromas. Bone dry and light, it has a crisp freshness, with a hint of sea salt on the palate, giving a delicate and refreshing wine with a lingering aftertaste.

SMITH & EVANS TRILOGOY 1 12% abv.

SOMERSET £37.99 Dish: Local Fish Unconventional and distinctive, the three Champagne grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, are blended in this multi-vintage wine (2010, 2011 and 2012 their first three harvests). Full flavoured with aromas of hazelnuts and oloroso sherry, it has zero sulphur and zero sugar. On the palate it is rich and round, with balancing fresh acidity. With just 200 bottles produced, the next Trilogy (2013,14 and 15) will be available in 2021.

LANGHAM ESTATE SPARKLING ROSÉ NV 12% abv.

DORSET £26.99 Dish: Eggs Benedict Sure to turn this classic breakfast dish into a memorable occasion, this award-winning blend of 52% Pinot Noir and 48% Pinot Meunier, produces a pretty salmon pink wine with a stream of fine bubbles. Partial barrel fermentation and 30 months lees ageing in bottle give complexity, with aromas of roasted strawberry and buttery pastry.

On the palate it is light and refreshing with cranberry and strawberry flavours reminiscent of summer fruit pudding.

2017 QUINTA DE LA ROSA DUORO PORTUGAL 13% abv. £13 Dish: Halloumi This unusual white wine from the Douro is made from grape varieties used to produce port; Gouveio, Rabigato, Malvasia,

Viosinho and Códega do Larinho.

Gaining 86 points from wine aficionado Robert Parker, on the nose its minerality is prominent.

Fermented in small stainlesssteel tanks before bottling, on the palate it is rich and fruity with lively acidity.

2016 ROLLY-GASSMANN ALSACE RIESLING 12.5% abv. £18.99 Dish: Thai Green Curry Going well with Asian cuisine, this elegant wine, made by a top Alsace producer, whose family domain dates back to 1661, has fantastic depth and richness, with notes of lime blossom, and hints of honey. Vinification takes place in oak barrels and stainless-steel, giving wines of great elegance, gentleness and drinkability. This biodynamic vineyard exports just 20% of its annual production.

LOPEN ROSÉ SOMERSET £14.50 Dish: Beetroot Hummus, Corn fritters An organic wine, made locally from Pinor Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, with a rosy pale blush colour, slightly off-dry and perfect for outdoors picnics.

2017 JOSEF EHMOSER ZWEIGELT 13% abv.

AUSTRIA £14.99 Wild Hedgerow flavours The combination of the climate, soil, location, grape varieties, and the winemaker himself, whose family have been here for three generations, ensure that this wine is expressive of the ‘terroir’.

Their philosophy is to "respect nature" with minimum intervention.

2017 PIETAS CARIGNAN PAY D’HERAULT FRANCE 12% abv., £8.99 Dish: Duck A fruit driven wine with sweet spice and juicy red fruit.

Carignan, the most planted

varietal here, gives this 'Vieilles Vignes' wine a deep purple colour.

On the palate it has notes of red berries and vanilla. With cherry and raspberry flavours in abundance alongside notes of black pepper and sweet tobacco.

Fine, soft tannins give balance.

2016 DELTA BLOCK ZINFANDEL 14.5% abv.

LODI, CALIFORNIA, USA £12.99 Dish: Venison This family have been making wine for over 100 years. This medium bodied wine is made with grapes sourced from some of the region’s oldest vines, picked at optimum ripeness, gaining concentration and fruit purity, yet maintaining freshness. Deep ruby in colour with purple tints, it has notes of sweet spice, mocha and dark black fruits. Vanilla spice, liquorice and chocolate are balanced with ripe, chewy tannins and a juicy core.

2019 ELDERTON GOLDEN SEMILLON 12% abv.

BAROSSA VALLEY AUSTRALIA £15.99 (50ml.)

Dish: Apple Flan This straw coloured, awardwinning, medium-bodied dessert wine, is the fifth vintage from Elderton’s own 60-acre Greenock vineyard. Grapes are allowed to shrivel on the vine before being hand-picked and left on their skins for 3 days to extract maximum flavour, before pressing. Aromas of dried pear, apricots and figs reflect the flavours on the palate, balanced by good acidity.

YEOVIL ALES KELLERBIER 4.3%abv. £3.25 Dish:Roast Cauliflower & Dhal This cellar beer is lagered for over 30 days for a crisp fruity flavour and left unfined and unfiltered.

The result is a premium pilsnerstyle lager, full-bodied, smooth and golden.

L.P-V.

Chill-Out Somerset

For all your refrigerated trailer requirements, outside events, etc.

CONTACT : Martyn Jones 07973 433586 EMAIL : chilloutsomerset@yahoo.com

THE VISITOR September 2019 27

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

I love you and I'm dreaming of you but that won't do Dream baby make me stop my dreamin', you can make my dreams come true THE FIRST PERSON to name the above song gets a free drink.

Last month nobody guessed who the two likely lads in the picture w e r e . We l l i t w a s M i c k y Macmullen and Ian (Oggy) Kelly - both in their 20’s at the time. You are going to look again now aren’t you ☺ Some sad news to start with this month, with the passing of a local Football Legend. Tony Pounder played for Yeovil when it really meant something.

After he finished his playing career He coached literally hundreds of local teenagers and in most cases made them better players.

About a dozen went on to be professional footballers with league teams.

He will be fondly remembered by the local Footballing fraternity.

Thank you Tony. May you rest in peace.

This month we had a blast up here on the top of the hill when Chris and Irene Coleman celebrated their Golden wedding anniversary. A lovely crowd, a bit of music, little bit of grub and a few drinks made for a super evening. Well done you two congratulations!

Next month on the 13th we have live in the bar the fabulous Mr D’arcy, music starts just after 9pm.

They are always good fun!

On the 21st in the function room we have a wonderful ROY ORBISON Tribute show. Tickets are on sale at the pub for what promises to be a great evening.

Before I go I just have to mention the revolution that has occurred here with our dessert board.

We now have chefs that not only produce some cracking food but the desserts really are to die for.

Come up and check em out!

Toot Toot !! ☺

BOOKINGS

01935 424721

28 THE VISITOR September 2019

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B EER & S KI TT L ES P. A. BAXTER

BEER! WE LIKE BEER! It's still the favourite drink amongst pub goers despite the rise and all of lager, nitrogen dispense fizz, alcopops and other fashion drinks. Have you ever considered being a member of CAMRA? Yes, no, maybe? Well known for being the most successful consumer group in Europe they first came about through a group of people who found the advent of the keg 'near-beer' and in particular 'Watney's Red Barrel' a bland concoction of standard wherever-

you-are, taste-free carbon dioxide delivered alcoholic water! (I may have exaggerated slightly for the sake of clarity) The name has become a standing joke ever since, in the real ale drinking community. Somehow I managed to avoid this 'stuff' early in my drinking career!

CAMRA, of course, went from strength to strength and now not being far short of 200,000 members, one can see the level of support there is. In recent times there was a 're-inventing' of the organisation which was totally unnecessary in my view, as there was thoughts that it had lost its way as an organisation.

Was it still relevant in today's licensed market when few pubs, if any, have no real ale? Has the rise of 'craft' beer (often applied as another name for keg!) rendered CAMRA 'old-hat' as 'only the older generation drink ale' (incorrect of course). In this process of re-booting one can opt for more by email – even the monthly newspaper 'What's Brewing'. This has become thinner and lacks the pizzazz of the past in my view. The magazine issued quarterly to members named uninspiringly 'Beer' has, again in my view, become more of style over content. This does not mean that

we as consumers should abandon the organisation. The organisation has developed in an organic way and evolved over the years as more features were added. I hope the following few paragraphs will explain.

CAMRA has become more diverse with cider ('real' of course) being added to the list of items to support, along with real Perry as well. These two items are more than relevant when we are constantly bombarded with advertisements for cider on the haunted fish-tank telling us that their cider is 'traditional', 'genuine', 'expertly produced', 'family business' etc. I'm sure you get the idea, but is this stuff as good as it is blown up to be?

Whilst it might be all down to taste, to make claims about their product which would possibly not stand up in a court of law, when it's interesting to note that by law English cider needs only to be 30% apple juice! I support CAMRA in their continual crusade against dubious claims.

It's now approaching the 50th anniversary when I (as a 16 year old) was introduced to alcohol and in particular the juice of the apple, an expedition which resorted in yelling for Hughie down the big white telephone, and the subsequent dislike for cider ever since. Not my finest moment.

CAMRA have also taken up the cudgels in the fight against brewery closures, although it has to be said that their record on that front is not a good one.

However, in fighting pub closures and assisting those who wish to make a go of running a pub there are plenty of areas where there is information available from them, not only directly but by putting potential pub-owners in touch with organisations, including local councils, where bye-laws may need to be adhered to, as well as 'how-to' for access to grants and monies that could be available. The rise of the community pub and their subsequent success is witness to this, and as far as I know, there has not been closures on this front. A visit to the CAMRA website will immediately reveal links to areas of assistance.

If one is a regular visitor to Wetherspoons then being a member of CAMRA has the advantage of £20 worth of tokens (40 x 50p) off a pint of real ales, real cider and real perry (one per visit) We have mentioned 'Spoons on many an occasion in these columns and despite a relationship with Mr Martin that was a little fiery in the past this

Pub The

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B EER & S KI TT L ES P. A. BAXTER

feature continues and appears that it will continue to do so.

Furthermore, there are now an extra £10 worth of tokens for other pub groups. Many pubs – in the region of 3,500 nationally - also do a discount on real ale on the production of a current membership card. Usually it's just 10p or 20p, but 'every little helps', as is sometimes said.

The now famous 'Good Beer Guide' is available at a discount price to members and is delivered early if one pays by direct debit.

Something for the real ale drinker to really put their money where their mouth is comes in the shape of the 'CAMRA Members Investment Club'. At the last count the holding is just under £23,000,000 in shares and whilst returns can go down as well as up, the very fact one is supporting something one believes in is encouraging to the

industry, and also it is of course a medium to long term investment.

CAMRA have also spent a lot of energy in attempting to dispel the myth that we're all middleaged, over-weight, ale-swilling males with Fair isle jumpers, sandals and beards that bore everyone about ale! CAMRA do a lot in promoting 'Women and beer' and one can barely see any pictures of festivals without a disproportionately high number of young females grinning inanely over their halves of ale. I state this because it is a fact that only 17% of females drink beer – at least in this country. Various visits to Belgium have for us witnessed females descending on the local hostelry for their late afternoon drinks. Interestingly there is a distinct bias in the direction of the numerous fruit beers available in Belgium. Many of these fruit beers are available 'over here' and the female of the species in our family have a particular interest in them. There are English versions of fruit beers, but beware; some are just flavoured rather than actually having been brewed with fruit.

According to female beer drinking groups here they are put off by male attitudes, which I guess does have some mileage as it's always been beer that was associated with us blokes. Back in the days of heavy industry the pub was a male domain and a place to visit on the way home from work. Only women of dubious morals were to be seen inside such a place. Women's beer group 'Dea Latis' director is Annabel Smith, who has had more than a few mentions on

these pages, along with another lady with the same intent, Jane Peyton. Reports have been written on the subject 'The Gender Pint Gap' and 'The Beer Agender' which give much food for thought. They state that past beliefs include - 'influences by imagery and attitude have meant that the typical female beer drinker is someone who doesn't care too much about what other people think of her or doesn't care too much about what she thinks of herself'. However it concludes that 'women who drink beer are relaxed, happy, fun and in control' Hmmm... some work needed by us all – or is it? If women have more attitude, freedom and equality than ever before surely

they should care little about what other people think? As one lady said to me 'I'll care about what other people think when they offer to pay my bills'. Agreed! © P.A. Baxter 2019. skittlealley@hotmail.com

September:

Fri 6th 9pm: Fairplay. The Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse

Sat 7th 3pm: Acoustic music in the garden, 9pm: The Adventures of The Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse Fri 13th 9pm: Mr D’arcy. The Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil

Sat 21st Roy Orbison Tribute Show. The Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil Sat 28th

9pm: Up Your Brass. The Cross Keys Inn, Lydford-on-Fosse

AN ADVERT IN THE PUB PAGES ENSURES A FREE MENTION HERE!

Vinny knows his way around town

THE VISITOR September 2019 29

AROUND THE

H O U S E S IN GALHAMPTON ... tickets are selling fast for the Mediterranean Meze Night at The Orchard Inn on Monday 30th September - a charity event in aid of the RUH Forever Friends ... tasty Sunday Lunches, with a choice of meats, served at The Bay Tree, South Cary ... enjoy live entertainment at The George Hotel, Castle Cary on 31st August ... always a friendly welcome at The Natterjack Inn, Evercreech Junction ... camping is available on site at The Cross Keys Inn, Lydford on Fosse ... and there’s a meat raffle every Friday at The Old Pound Inn, Aller.

Sunday Lunch is always popular at The Sparkford Inn, Sparkford ... don’t miss The Mutter Slater Band live in the bar at The Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil on Friday 30th August ... fifteen tastefully decorated ensuite rooms available at The Kings Arms, Montacute ... wines from around the world by the bottle or the glass served at The Phelips Arms ... a good selection of local ales available at The Crown & Victoria, Tintinhull ... breakfast is served from 9am until 11am everyday at The Prince of Wales, Ham Hill ... if you’re out walking the dog in West Chinnock, why not call into The Muddled Man for a drink - dogs are always welcome ... and if you’re a gin drinker, Tarquin’s Gin (from Cornwall) is available at The Barrington Boar, Barrington, near Ilminster.

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 21

1) 'Abbey Road' 2) Manfred Mann 3) 'Replays' 4) George Michael 5) 'New Shoes' 6) 'Mondays' 7) 1978 8) Peter Frampton 9) Paul Simon 10) Tina Turner Bonus Question: 'City to City'

Question Impossible:

Barry White. This was actually before he had his first solo hit.

They Say That in July, the legs of the nearly extinct White Rhino were spotted in Majorca.

That John J.R. Richards of Wincanton has the holiday bug after his holiday in Majorca.

That Mr John Brittain of Castle Cary did not have such a soft landing when falling from his near stationary motorcycle as he did when he fell in the rose bushes on top of his friend Anthony.

That the 'three-minute rule' has been widely discussed recently

by Saturday morning golfers at Wheathill Golf Course.

That in Portugal, the perfectly poached eggs (as mentioned in last month’s column) may, unfortunately, take a little longer to perfect.

That it’s sad to hear Weymouth’s Jurassic Skyline Tower is to be dismantled, through lack of support.

That a smart new wooden village notice board has been erected at Chine in North Cadbury.

That wasp deterrents in Montacute are not very efficient.

That the recent excavations at the archaeological dig at Shaftesbury Abbey revealed a beautifully carved stone head from a statue, thought to date from around 1320.

That when it comes to horticulture, Queen Camel’s Linda Price knows a thing or two about gladioli.

That after 30 years of supplying beautiful blooms to Yeovil, and further afield, Andrea’s Florist has closed its doors, and we wish June all the best in her retirement.

As ColourFence has gained in popularity, customers have been keen to extend the benefits of the fencing to the rest of their garden. The latest product to be added is ColourShed.

ColourShed has been designed at the request of customers who, having found that they no longer need to care for and maintain timber fencing, were keen to ditch the paintbrush permanently and upgrade to a maintenance free shed which is guaranteed for 25 years.

The robust design and generous 8x6ft footprint give’s you plenty of storage space for tools, garden furniture etc.

It is made from unique Colourbond steel for an excellent quality and attractive finish that will not require painting and is guaranteed not to rot, warp or rust. Colourbond steel is also fire resistant providing you with peace of mind from accidents.

The shed can be installed with or without composite flooring and when professionally installed, the shed is securely riveted together and this, when paired with the integrated key lock handle, offer you safe and secure storage for your possessions.

Call today for a free no obligation quote: 01935 481013 or visit www.colourfence southsomerset.co.uk.

That Ironman 70.3 is coming to Weymouth on 22nd September.

That ‘Fluffy' the cat did an excellent job of cleaning up the dropped crumbs in the garden at Montacute House.

That Stalham’s Carl Feakins, plus family and friends, will be celebrating his BIG birthday in style from 19th - 22nd September in Sherringham.

That Wincanton’s Mark Schatomski loves flying, but it’s the landing that’s the problem.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

30 THE VISITOR September 2019

ColourShed - Practical storage without the maintenance.

ColourShed has been designed at the request of customers who, having found that they no longer need to care for and maintain timber fencing, were keen to ditch the paintbrush permanently and upgrade to a maintenance free shed which is guaranteed for 25 years.

Lee Holmes Garden Machinery of Somerton stock a large selection of ride-on mowers.

They also offer repairs, parts and servicing.

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.holmesmowerpro.co.uk

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

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

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

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TR EE PLA N TIN G

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

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

THE VISITOR September 2019 31

the

en d

PAPERCHASE

bi t . . .

NOWADAYS most of the paid-for newspapers circulating in Visitorland are published by Reach plc, the current name of Trinity Mirror. The main exceptions are the Somerset County Gazette and the Chard and Ilminster News which are owned by American company Gannet. Long gone are the days when our local papers were written, published and financed locally. A glance through the 1889 edition of ‘Kelly’s Directory of Somersetshire with the City of Bristol’ reveals that the Somerset County Gazette was published on Wednesdays and Saturdays by its proprietors Woodley, Williams and Dunsford from Castle Green in Taunton, and the proprietor and publisher of the weekly Chard and Ilminster News was Thomas Young of Fore Street, Chard.

Of the Reach plc titles, what are now the Mid-Somerset series all had different proprietors – John Brock of High Street, Glastonbury published the Central Somerset Gazette on Saturdays; James Motes Atkins of High Street, Wells published the Wells Journal on Thursdays; Albert Byrt and Son of High Street, Shepton Mallet published the Shepton Mallet Journal every Thursday evening for Friday, having printed it at their works on Commercial Road.

Pulman’s Weekly News was published on Tuesdays by the Western Gazette Company in Yeovil and its principal title, the Western Gazette and Flying Post, came out on Fridays, usually in four editions to serve Wiltshire, Dorset and part of Hampshire as well as South Somerset. According to its advertisement in the directory, ‘it is an eight-page sheet . . . packed closely with advertisements and news and a careful summary of foreign, farming, gardening, ecclesiastical and general news. The growth of the circulation . . . is entirely without precedent in the West of England. The sale now averages nearly 33,000 copies per week.’ Its price was one penny – less than half a penny in today’s currency!

Some of Visitorland’s 1889 newspapers have fallen by the wayside. The Somerset County Mail and West of England Express was published from South Street, Crewkerne on Thursdays by its proprietor James Wheatley; Mr M A Palmer published Palmer’s Weekly News on Thursdays from his office in Water Street, Martock; Walter Bennett was proprietor of

32 THE VISITOR September 2019

the Langport and Somerton Herald which he published on Saturdays from North Street, Langport; the Western Chronicle was published from Yeovil on Fridays, claiming to be ‘the best newspaper in the district’, and on Tuesdays the same publisher produced The Telegram which, its advertisement informs us, ‘circulates largely in Dorset and Somerset and is an Excellent Family Newspaper’. What became of them all, I wonder.

Distribution of copies by horse and cart from the printing presses to the vendors was inevitably slow, especially to villages outside the towns and in inclement weather, although the coming of the railways from the 1840s benefited the regional daily papers emanating from Bristol which could rapidly reach stations in such towns as Chard, Ilminster, Langport, Crewkerne, Yeovil and Sherborne. In the directory the Western Daily Press claimed to be the ‘first established’ and have ‘the largest circulation in the West of England’, while competitor The Bristol Mercury bragged that Somerset County Council had unanimously selected the paper as a medium for its advertisements, quoting the Lord Lieutenant as saying that it ‘had a very large circulation, not only in Bristol but all over Somerset’.

And another competitor, the Bristol Times and Mirror, described itself as ‘the daily Conservative paper for Bristol and the West of England’ and ‘the official county paper for Somerset and Gloucestershire’ (without stating what made it ‘official’). All three dailies ran to eight pages and cost one penny. Only the Western Daily Press survives today.

When the directory was published in 1889 a new edition of ‘Kelly’s Directory of Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorsetshire’ was in preparation. Did this show other local papers serving the towns in the south-east corner of Visitorland? Perhaps a reader with access to a copy of the directory will enlighten me.

Chronicler.

Solution to August

Sudoku

PHONE - a - FIRM

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

DEADLINE for October Issue is Monday 16th September

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES

Competitive rates for all your plumbing needs

01963 441232 07971 676111

Are you a denture wearer?

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Denture repairs while you wait ...

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01458 210039

Home visits a speciality

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

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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

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

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

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 can be read online at: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact allan Carey

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

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Tel: (01963) 440256

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

Small and Large Loads tel: 07973 871708 evenings: 01935 825506

THE VISITOR September 2019 33

Classified Ads

Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BP or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.

Personal

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

Just sOMerset iNtrOduCtiONs. Bringing people together. Call alison tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk

1960/70’s plastic toy soldiers, knights, cowboys, forts, Britain’s Garden, Jolk, farm, tractors, timpo trains. 07823 443474

daVe Buys all tyPes OF tOOls, salvage, bygones and collectables. daves tools, est. 1969. tel: 01935 428975

stOraGe for furniture in locked cubicles. lock-up garages to let. tel: sparkford storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692

www.country-link.org.uk COuNtry liNK sOCial GrOuP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. tel: andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918

Wanted

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 ClassiCal aNd Jazz lP records. tel: 01458 834102 / 07704229979 email: tonyartony@aol.com

autOMOBilia, autOJuMBle, woodworking and engineering tools. tel: 01747 850474 GuNs WaNted FOr Cash, any size, any condition, make or model. We collect in any area. registered Firearms dealer. tel: 07970 742471

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

all sPOrts PrOGraMMes and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. large collections welcome. Cash paid. tel: Clive 01749 675456

Prize Crossword No. 395 Set by Frank Butler

19

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BP – to arrive by Friday 13th September.

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.

Storage

Services

hOusehOld & GardeN ruBBish Cleared, old sheds / outbuildings demolished, etc. tel: 01460 77844

astrodate. Gemini man seeks Virgo, Gemini, Cancer or libran woman, smallish. Non smoker. Call or text 07498 317901

COMPUTER REPAIRS ● Desktop ● Laptop ● Tablet ● Phone 07483 805766

Across:

1. For piping ‘F’, running away at speed. [7, 3] 6. Stab at heart, hiding town. [4] 9. Richest, cheapest, losing a pest in town. [10] 10. Thin candle includes this race. [4] 12. Knife attack arranged bats. [4] 13. Read about clothing for one who makes a speech. [9] 15. Head root reveals girl’s name. [8] 16. Ay, corn can be colourful. [6] 18. Ye arranged fast with no risk. [6] 20. Sent a bee to find who has not been present. [8] 23. Public opinion? [3, 6] 24. Covering beach in San Domingo.

[4] 26. United Nations left out! [4] 27. A green mess in restricted quantity. [10] 28. Supper mixed-up West? [4] 29. Tudor pokes into a surface where we work. [3, 7]

8. Hear about danger for senior keeper of parkland. [10] 11. Lack of fright. [12] 14. Sang ‘David’s Way’ as financial success. [3, 7] 17. Bad ridge made shorter. [8] 19. Fasten true assortment for securely attached item. [7] 21. Gnat net arranged just touching.

[7] 22. River with gold in office. [6] 25. Was apparently including as soon as possible. [1, 1, 1, 1]

Solution to Crossword 394

Down:

1. Reformed Eric as pudding? [4] 2. Rip and rent pieces of output machine. [7] 3. One country surrounding clothing for living. [12] 4. Silvery and velvety. [8] 5. If sled is arranged, cattle may graze here. [6] 7. Sent May about to find a truce.

[7] 34 THE VISITOR September 2019

The Winner of our August Crossword was J.M. Burns of Shepton Montague who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Andrew Barclay Butchers, Wincanton.